Just back from the VPPA (Virginia Professional Photographers Association) convention in Portsmouth and once again I took so much away from the experience of getting together with other photographers to share, as well as participate in presentations from some of the most talented professionals in our business. Personal and professional growth is so important in any business, but particularly important when you are in a business where fresh creative energy is so vital in delivering the very best to your clients. There are some pretty awesome photographers all over the world, and it is so cool that we can all share through internet forums and blogs etc. But, there is really nothing like the face to face that you get when people convene from all over our state to share what is going down in our very own neighborhood. There is some amazing talent out there and we are well represented in our little part of the state, too. Talented people who are committed to their craft, what a fun business this really is!

Now, I am also proud to report that Jack did very well while I was away, too. It kinda made me sad knowing that he would not have anyone to play with all day and have to spend extended periods of time in that place from which he thinks no dogs return (the crate). BUT, as with my own personal growth, Jack was able to grow as well and will now go into the crate on command and actually lay down without so much as a whimper. In fact, he spent about four hours in the crate yesterday without incident. Amazing! Good boy, Jack! I’m so proud of you.

So now, all that Jack has to fear is… er…. well…. the CAMERA! I can’t really say it is fear because he doesn’t really get that wild eyed look like he does when he hears a fire engine. But, it is clear that Jack is quickly becoming impatient and annoyed when the camera comes out and he is interrupted from his comfortable lounging on the bed or sunning on the living room floor. He is obviously NOT a poser. But he is so cute and I love him so much, how can I resist??? I mean I can hardly go get a cup of coffee without wanting to curl right up with him for a mid-afternoon snooze.

Oh well. Jack, you’ll be happy to know that pretty soon I will be too busy to annoy you. You’ll be lucky to get in that morning romp in the park, much less the after lunch one, too. So suffer me now for you will be able to rest later when the dog days of summer are upon us.

Good boy.