Tickle Your Fancy

Surf NSB Jan 1, 2013 1Skateboarding 2012 PonceEveryone needs something to do that makes them happy! An old saying that best describes this is, “What tickles your fancy?” What makes YOU happy! For me it is my LOVE for photography!  Why? It is my release, something that I enjoy to take me away from “every day” life! EVERYONE needs some kind of outlet, something fun that they enjoy but that does not harm them. When my children were small, my husband would watch the kids and I would go shopping (an hour or 2 my myself) and I absolutely recommend this for any Mom, whether she works in or outside of the home.  About this same time I became an aerobics instructor, (this was MANY years ago!) Then I took an interest finding old furniture such as tables, chairs etc; and began to restore them. I also dabbled in a little photography (mostly my children when they were small) but back then you were dealing with film, (purchasing and developing) which took time and money.  Then over 2 years ago, I had purchased my first digital camera (small, nothing fancy) but it had a built-in optical zoom feature that allowed me to capture surfers and that is when I became hooked! I saw the ability of this little camera and just fell in love with photographing them. Even today I feel as though I’m out their surfing with them. I get almost the same kind of rush they get when they surf that wave and I capture the shot!  Recently I have expanded my love for photography by taking portraits of families, children and couples. I have also had the opportunity to photograph weddings, which I so adore!
When I get to go on a photo shoot, whether it’s surfers, portraits, weddings or other special occasions, I am thrilled because it brings me utter joy!
I must give thanks to God for making this possible. Ten years ago the Lord led us to Florida, and in this small town there was not a church of any kind, and with my husbands experience as a pastor, we as a family founded and pastor the first church in the history of Ponce Inlet: Ponce Church. Because of this I am grateful to live in such a beautiful beach town where I can do the second thing that I love and that is: Photography!

So If you don’t have something that “tickles your fancy”  that is just for you to enjoy, find one!! Look inside yourself, write down things you’d like to do if you could do them and pick one!  Something that fits your schedule and your budget. Maybe it’s going for walks, or riding your bike. Maybe it’s taking an art class. It does not matter what it is, as long as it is something that makes “you” happy.  And don’t feel guilty. I learned that a long time ago. It is healthy for you, your family and your relationships to so something fun and enjoyable for you! Don’t put it off, get started today!

See what I’m up to on Facebook “Nina Tidwell Photography” or ninatidwell.com