My typical wake-up time is 5:30 or 6:00 a.m. It's been closer to 6:30 since I got back from California, but I'm getting back to 5:30. I like to get up early without an alarm. I tell myself right before bed that I must wake up by 5:30. It works, though I do set a backup alarm if I have to be up for an appointment or job. 

I write three journal pages first thing on waking. Then I do prayer and meditation, Tony Robbins-style priming, walk the dog, breakfast, and shower all before 8 a.m. It leaves lots of time to get things done the rest of the day.

Yesterday, I was up before 6:00. I wanted to catch the sunrise on Freedom Parkway. I like the metal MLK sculpture but I've never taken a photo of it. I got up, did my morning routine, and grabbed my camera.

I was outside as the sun was coming up. It didn't look like it would be much of a sunrise. There wasn't a lot of texture in the sky. But, I kept walking. When I got to Freedom Parkway, I was a little disappointed. But, I stood on the corner watching the traffic, waiting for the sunlight to change. 

And It did.

Suddenly the Suntrust tower was lit up bright yellow and orange. I've said it before. Patience is king when it comes to photography. Yesterday, I didn't have to wait long.

I took several photos of the MLK metal sculpture.

I rushed to get back across the street in the quickly-changing light. I saw some colorful clouds that I wanted to capture. 

I had to wait for the stoplight to change, though. Too dangerous to cross Boulevard willy-nilly.

As I made it across at the light, I ran the short block back to Freedom Parkway to see if the clouds were still illuminated. 

They were. 

I got a few nice shots.

I realized I was standing on Freedom Parkway on September 11th - 17 years since the massive terrorist attacks at the World Trade Center. 

I said a prayer for all those who lost their lives on that day. I said another prayer for all those who've lost their lives in all the useless wars we wage on each other. 

I took the shot of MLK and the Suntrust building at 1/160, f/10, ISO 100. I exposed for the sky. This means the sculpture was dark, so I brought up the shadows in post. I also added that little sun ray coming from MLK's hand.

He brought a significant amount of light to the world. I wanted the photo to reflect that somehow. 

I hope your day is good.

Take care, and see you between the raindrops!

xoxo,
Susan