my friend.....

Well certainly 2013 is drawing to the end, here in the country it is closing with a bang, the sound of an explosion that has shaken the city. So again, one or the other group has proven that they are capable of sending someone and his companions on a long journey. Again what a useless act but small minds won't understand. We had storm 'Alexa' coming and going, bringing long awaited rains and snow in the higher elevations. It of course brought more hardship to the thousands and thousands of refugees in the Bekaa valley and the north of the country, who, because of politics are not allowed to be sheltered in housing, except tents. So much for solidarity with your brethren.

Christmas was a kind of non-event this year, despite the decorations and everything, no feeling at all.

Due to the situation in the country, only little travel is possible. Going up to Marjayoun was interesting, it is quite nice up there and would be very worth exploring if it was only at all possible. Mount Hermon has already a deep snow cover, thanks to 'Alexa', but considering the other years it has rained to little.

Must say it appears that 2013 really passed fast, also it is of course just a perception as time always passes at the same speed, obviously. If the next four years and five months could pass at the same speed, that would be great, as sooner I can leave this place as better it is.

The year was marked by two important events, the time on the Golan in Syria and the nearly two months at home. With regard to photography, I think all of the images taken were nothing special, nothing terrible either, just average. I changed to the Olympus system, it has it's positive aspects, like size, weight and portability as well as quality, but I am not sure it is what I am looking for either. Still searching for the Holy Grail with regard to the perfect camera and image. Maybe it does not exist or my expectations are much to high. If it wasn't so insane expensive, I would go for the digital Leica M system, but the question I am asking myself again and again, is it justifiable? But then, justifiable to whom, except to myself. Ideas about projects, books have come and gone, some I wrote down others disappeared in the brain fog so frequently. Overall I do wish I could or would dedicate more time to photography. With a job it is difficult, at least for me to do so and focus on the job completely and on photography. Maybe I should take the 'Job' less seriously:)

So what 2014 will bring? Personally I hope all will continue as I do not see any improvement coming. Politically for the country and the region, well, it could be a decisive year. Like the weather currently, the signs are indicating a storm is brewing somewhere, dark clouds on the horizon. What is unknown is the exact path and strength. So wherever you are, may 2014 be happy and be peaceful for you and your families.

A HAPPY AND PEACEFUL YEAR 2014!!!