Yesterday was the day before my seventieth birthday, but I barely thought about that. I was determined to have a better day out making images.

Knowing that last evening would be the first workshop session I am attending while here, I decided to shoot the local neighborhood. I headed north to Fort Tyron Park on to the Cloisters and then walked south along the Hudson River to the Little Red Lighthouse.

I made some images that feel more composed and intentional. However, I also missed several shots due to poor technique or being rushed. To improve my technique, I have been focusing on making images "straight out of the camera," with no post-processing – what I see in the viewfinder is what I get. I am struggling and not progressing as fast as I hoped to. I need more practice. On the other hand, it is frustrating how difficult it is for me to slow myself down. The only one how is rushing me is me.

Today is my birthday, and somehow, I have managed to survive to celebrate being seventy years old! I remember in my teens and twenties doubting I would make it to forty and wondering if I wanted to. The last thirty years have been among my life's most challenging, rewarding and fun years. Who knew?

It's time to get ready to catch the train downtown for our first full day at the workshop.