Fifty years ago, I heard my shutter click for thee first time. I was in love. My feelings were so strong that I had to pursue it with all I had. In 1978, one of the finest photography programs is the country was at, what was then, East Texas State University. As a student, I participated in four major photo projects. Won some awards and upon graduation, I joined the photography staff at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. For thirteen years, I recorded surgical procedures and research projects. Being a photographer on the state payroll had its perks. Assignments included visiting dignitaries from around the world, governors (including Clinton) and my favorite assignment, the Arkansas Razorbacks. In ‘94, my wife, Karen and I hit the road in a motorhome. The next five years proved to be pivotal in my profession. We planned our schedule to coincide with the seasons and the prospects of finding new photo opps. America is rich in opps! But, in 99’ my life was to undergo the most dramatic change yet. That’s when my Lord came calling. He made it clear. I was to take my life into the ministry. In June, I became the missionary and later pastor of a small Baptist church in Arizona. Perfect, I could serve God and take photos in a very beautiful state. In 2017, it was time to step down and retire. Even though my days in the ministry had come to an end, the days as a photographer were taking on new form and meaning. We were off to Virginia, we were minutes away from D.C. and the coast. Nice. Then we moved back to our beloved Arkansas, which really is one of the most beautiful and diverse states in America. We traveled to Hawaii, on three vacations. The Caribbean on another. All the while, living on a beautiful lake in northwest Arkansas. Finally, we came home to Colorado Springs, just last year. I sure am glad they invented the digital camera.