Like Tracie, I, too, have been challenging my photography skills this January.

And so the story goes: During a lovely morning of blog browsing, I stumbled upon Soule Mama's blog. Her photography and writing drew me in, and after a bit of reading, I discovered that she was participating in a 30-day Photography Challenge. And because one of my January hopes is improving my photography skills and the way I view the world through the lens, I couldn't resist participating.

So, I keep my camera close, and snap the details of the day that catch my eye. It certainly is an exercise in paying attention and appreciating those things you might otherwise overlook: a lunch routine not complete without Diet Coke, the sun setting on the way home from work, a bedside table piled with favorite books, a beloved coffee mug.

Are you participating in any photo challenges this year? If so, please leave a link in the comments section. I'd love to be inspired by what you're seeing.

Layout credits: The digital frames are a little sneak peek of an exclusive kit Michelle Coleman created for Memory Makers. During the next few weeks, stay tuned to this blog for details on how you can get the kit for free! The Embrace Life accent is from Sande Krieger's Embrace Life kit. You can download the kit for free here.

Happy Monday,

Katie