Next in line to creating photographs, the thing I love most about my job is my FREEDOM. Fortunately I do not have a job where I dread Mondays due to the fact that I will spend the next five days glued to a desk, doing something I do not enjoy, while answering to an objectionable person. I create my own schedule and I report to my desk each night clad in my PJ’s sans makeup.

I’m sure this was the set up I’ve dreamed of since junior high. Still, I lament.

One of my biggest struggles with this state of professional liberty that is working for myself is…well..working by myself and missing adult interaction (dare I say water cooler). Two if you’re counting but I wondered how nice it might be if perhaps a wedding and portrait photographer several doors down might have the answer to my color balance or online marketing quandaries. Since Friday 5:00 happy hour is a distant memory, three years ago last time I checked, I have created an equivalent. Welcome to my very first installment of 5 @ Friday where I will be answering five random questions on random Fridays. This week they come from Seymour Peeps.

1. Do you collect anything?
For a few years now, I have been collecting sand from (mostly) all islands I’ve visited. It’s amazing to see all the distinct colors, shapes, angularities and textures of the earth and also a nice way to reminisce about places I’ve been. My favorite is the black sand I brought back from Manual Antonio Beach, Costa Rica. I hope that someday my collection will include gravel pits, sand from mountain tops, a lush garden or caves.

2. What is your happiest childhood memory?
Being grandpa’s favorite and weekly outings for ice-cream and fishing with my grandparents. I can still remember the smell of the marina and the unsightly-dingy color of the fluorescent lighting at DQ. There is something so special about grandparents’ love.

3. Define a great relationship.
There are a few things I don’t leave home without. And then there’s Respect, Love, Friendship. I don’t lead a relationship without it.

4. When was the last time you swam in a pool?
A little over 8 months ago. It also happened to be my due date but that didn’t stop me from beating my brother-in-law in a swim race.

5. If you mated a bull dog and a shitzu, would you call it bullshit?
Happy Friday!!

Please check my latest work at www.ziemphotography.com and follow me on Facebook. I look forward to hearing from you!