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Behind the Scenes #soulgazephotography

Sometimes, we camouflage ourselves by trying to be like everyone else, in an attempt to hide from the world. Yet, we can not truly hide. We all have unique differences that make us stand out. Let your light shine. You’re not invisible.
My birthstone is peridot, but I most adore amethyst. What is your favorite? This specimen is one of my favorites. It came from Mammoth Cave’s gift shop and is far more unique than just a specimen of traditional amethyst.
I'm not sure what's worse, being called fat this afternoon by an elementary student when picking up my children or again being told I'll never be a Park Ranger. Obviously the second one is worse, as the first is in the process of being remedied, but both in one day isn't exactly pleasant. The more I make it known my goal for my life (Soul Gaze Photography, LLC and work at nearby Mammoth Cave National Park), the more people have been discouraging rather than uplifting. It's confusing. If it won't be competition for them, why not offer encouragement?? I've actually received messages, comments, and have been told in person by current Rangers the same depressing thing. That it'll never happen for me or because I'm not military or a teacher. There are a few Park Rangers (both currently active and retired) who have been super supportive (you know who you are, thank you!!), so why so much negativity from everyone else?? I know the positions are competitive, most of the hiring is computer based algorithms. I also know there are people all over the US that apply and are better qualified on paper due to degrees. I don't expect to get a position easily, and honestly I feel it should be challenging to obtain a position so that it will be better appreciated. I figure it'll take a few tries anyway, so I'll continue to tweak my resume as needed and will reapply for every position that has qualification potential. I have a lot to learn, but also a lot to give. I plan to volunteer more regardless and I am deeply grateful for the opportunities I've had volunteering as a member of Friends of Mammoth Cave National Park. Those people may be right, and I may die before getting a chance to earn the uniform, but I can still volunteer and make a difference anyway. I have a lifetime to try, I'm willing to obtain a degree if I must, and I won't give up. Eventually, it'll happen, even if it's entry level cleaning national park toilets. I'm not doing it for the pay, I want to be there making a difference doing something I love for a place I am passionate about protecting and preserving for future generations. Besides, my kids are watching...what would I be teaching them if I gave up?🦇✨
After an unseasonably cold beginning, finally it is officially spring here in Kentucky! All the green arrived rapidly, and ironically, so did the warm weather. Check out this beautiful sticker of #cumberlandfalls by the super talented @rachelalvarezart! I’ll be making a trip there this summer to photograph her sticker in the real world. It’s a cool project! And I love any excuse to visit this magical place of waterfalls and giant boulders.
Sunday’s adventure was to a magical place where wildflowers were blooming on giant limestone rocks amid an ancient karst landscape. The afternoon sun filtering through the fresh spring leaves was gloriously reminiscent of a fairyland. DSLR pics will be posted to soulgazephoto.com sometime this month. Bookmark it! :)