From the Outside, Looking In

I don't know what it is that compels me to take pictures from the outside looking in..... but I have always loved looking through windows. When I go on runs, I am always curious and wonder what's inside. My favorite time to peak through window is in the evening when the lamps are all turned on. All of a sudden life looks calm, things feel safe and from the outside there is peace. I do know all too well, that the reality is not always so. From distance life appears safe, peaceful and lovely. But truly life isn't always like that and often enough real life is taking place behind those windows. And this in its own way is beautiful at moments or heartbreaking and ugly at other moments. The reality is that life doesn't always take place in the calm, safe, loveliness of life although I love when it does. But life often takes place when quarreling is loud, tears are shed and forgiveness is asked. Life often takes place when feelings have been hurt or sadness and lonliness seems to much to bear and hugs are given. Life often takes place in the laughter and frustration and in our home, most of the time it isn't quiet but rather loud. So, although I love looking from a distance in.... it doesn't always tell a true picture of what really goes on.