I finally got Paul McCartney’s recently published photographic documentary 1964, Eyes of the Storm and his two volume The Lyrics.  These books now compliment his Paintings that I have owned for a while. Can’t believe I got Paintings for a buck at my local library’s fundraising book sale! So here’s something about Sir Paul that shouldn’t need a newsflash … he’s one creative guy!  Song writer, musician, singer, painter. Not bad at all.

Unfortunately we all can’t live the enchanted life he’s lived, if for no other reason a lack of a billion dollars give or take some millions. But that’s all right. I’ve written many times here about living a photographic life and I try to do everything I can to do just that.  But there’s more I want to do to live a greater creative life while still managing work, having time for my dear wife and family, maintaining friendships, being an audiophile and music lover, walking ten miles a day, and all the rest. That’s a lot for sure and I’ll be the first to say I think I’ve lived a pretty charmed life.  But I know I can make it even better … a more creative and fulfilling life.

First, I live my photographic life. I photograph, print, collect and read photographic monographs, run the Monalog Collective and travel the journey that photography has put me on, one that is almost 60 years and counting. I also love music, almost all kinds and I’ve been a serious audiophile since I was a teenager. My vinyl collection is made up of over 6,000 records and counting. I also read books and articles online. And I’ve been very lucky in my working life. I’ve only worked for those I wanted to and have done only what I believe in. Following this path has enabled me to spend time with my family, as well as my friends pretty much when I want to, and to do all the other things I love.  The choices I’ve made have led to earning less than I could have otherwise, but they’re choice I don’t regret one bit

I have a pretty fulfilled life, filled with great meaning and purpose, but now I want more. More creativity. I guess, I want to be more like Paul. And why not? I’ll turn 70 this year and although my new grandchildren approved policy is to tell people I’m 53 when asked, time is marching on. I know I can’t paint or draw; that’s one of the things what led me to photograph in the first place. But there is another creative thing I think I could do … learn to play an instrument. Afterall I have beautiful piano we bought when our kids were growing up. It sits in our living room, serving as fancy platform for family pictures to rest on. I’m pretty sure I could find a better use for it. I’ve also tried a few times over the years to pick up and learn how to play the guitar, always giving up because of all the other things I had going on. Well the time is coming baby … one instrument or the other … or maybe both!  What else?  I would like to write more. I actually write quite a bit beyond what you read here. For years I’ve written reports, studies, articles and even speeches. I’ve had a couple of book ideas I’ve thought about for a long time and probably could think of a few more. I’ve also always wanted to make a “photo-text” book like Wright Morris did. I think I can do all of these things when my working life slows down and maybe some of these things even if it doesn’t. I just need to make it so.

Writing all of this makes me very excited! I really mean it! I can have an even more creative and fulfilling life going forward. Even when I’m no longer working, I’ll find a way to keep involved in things that are important to me.  I’ll have all the creative stuff and the family and friend’s stuff too. And here’s the thing, all of this is mutually supportive.

My photographic life can only become better!! Damn!

Stay well,

Michael