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If you missed the stunning aurora borealis displays over North America on May 10, you're in luck. This Friday night offers another opportunity to see this breathtaking phenomenon. The sunspot region responsible for triggering Earth's largest magnetic storm in nearly 20 years has once again rotated to the Earth-facing side of the sun. Although it's currently less active than it was earlier this month, it still holds potential for significant geomagnetic activity. The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) rates geomagnetic storms on a scale from G1 (minor) to G5 (extreme). While the storm on May 10 was a G4, this Friday's storm is forecasted to be a G2, indicating a moderate storm. Auroras often appear as a milky green glow in the night sky. They occur when the sun emits a strong surge of solar wind from its corona, known as a coronal mass ejection (CME). This solar plasma disturbs the outer part of Earth's magnetic field, triggering a geomagnetic storm. These storms can sometimes impact infrastructure, disrupting communications, power grids, navigation systems, and radio and satellite operations. On May 29, the sun emitted a significant solar flare, classified as X1.4, captured by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory. This flare originated from Active Region 3697 and is expected to reach Earth starting Friday afternoon, continuing into early Saturday morning. For the latest updates on the aurora borealis, be sure to visit the NOAA website. Don't miss this chance to witness one of nature's most awe-inspiring displays! Dre Erwin, a former Canadian Armed Forces member and dedicated nurse, is an inspirational figure in mental health support. His passion for therapeutic photography and youth well-being has earned widespread recognition. Dre authored the bestselling children's book 'The Little Boy Who Found Happiness in the Most Unusual Place' and was featured in the CBC documentary 'A New Lens on Life' for his innovative approach to mental health challenges. His story inspires nurses and healthcare providers to think creatively and make a positive impact in their practice. Stay connected with us on Facebook for additional tips and tricks: Follow Dre Erwin Photography at https://www.facebook.com/DreErwinPhotography.

Introduction: As spring unfolds across the northern hemisphere, nature's canvas begins to paint itself with vibrant colors and renewed life. Amidst this seasonal transformation, another spectacle awaits those who gaze skyward: the aurora borealis, or Northern Lights. In this blog, we explore the anticipated outlook for witnessing this celestial wonder in May 2024, particularly in the vast expanses of North America. Understanding the Aurora Borealis: The aurora borealis is a natural phenomenon caused by the interaction of charged particles from the sun with the Earth's magnetosphere. When these particles collide with gases in the Earth's atmosphere, they emit light, creating shimmering curtains of color that dance across the night sky, predominantly in polar regions. Factors Influencing the Aurora Forecast: Several factors influence the visibility and intensity of the aurora borealis, making its prediction an intricate endeavor. However, scientists and enthusiasts rely on various indicators to estimate the likelihood of witnessing this mesmerizing display. Solar Activity: The aurora borealis is closely linked to solar activity, particularly solar flares and coronal mass ejections. During periods of heightened solar activity, the Northern Lights may be more frequent and vivid. Geomagnetic Conditions: Geomagnetic storms, triggered by disturbances in the Earth's magnetosphere, can amplify the auroral activity. These storms often result from fluctuations in the solar wind and can enhance the visibility of the Northern Lights. Atmospheric Conditions: Clear skies and minimal light pollution are essential for optimal aurora viewing. Areas with low humidity and minimal cloud cover offer the best chances of observing the aurora borealis in its full splendor. Outlook for May 2024: As we delve into the aurora borealis outlook for May 2024, several factors come into play: Solar Activity: Solar activity is expected to be moderate in May 2024, with occasional bursts of increased sunspot activity. While this may not lead to intense auroral displays comparable to those during solar maximum, there remains a possibility of witnessing captivating Northern Lights, especially in regions closer to the Arctic Circle. Geomagnetic Conditions: Geomagnetic conditions are anticipated to be relatively stable during May 2024, with sporadic minor geomagnetic disturbances. While these disturbances may not result in widespread auroral activity, localized sightings of the Northern Lights are still possible, particularly in northern latitudes. Best Viewing Locations: For those eager to witness the aurora borealis in May 2024, here are some recommended viewing locations in North America: Alaska: Known for its dark skies and proximity to the Arctic Circle, Alaska offers excellent opportunities for observing the Northern Lights. Northern Canada: Remote wilderness areas in northern Canada, such as Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut, provide optimal conditions for aurora viewing. Northern United States: States bordering Canada, such as Minnesota, Michigan, and Maine, occasionally experience auroral displays, particularly during periods of heightened solar activity. Tips for Auroral Viewing: To maximize your chances of witnessing the aurora borealis in May 2024, consider the following tips: Stay informed: Monitor aurora forecasts and geomagnetic activity reports to plan your aurora-hunting excursions. Choose dark sky locations: Seek out areas with minimal light pollution and clear northern horizons for optimal viewing conditions. Be patient: Nature's light show can be unpredictable, so prepare to spend time outdoors and remain patient for the Northern Lights to appear. Capture the moment: Bring along a camera with manual settings to capture stunning photographs of the aurora borealis and preserve your memories. Conclusion: As May 2024 unfolds, anticipation mounts for the possibility of witnessing the aurora borealis in North America. While solar activity may be moderate and geomagnetic conditions relatively stable, the Northern Lights continue to inspire awe and wonder in those fortunate enough to witness their ethereal dance across the night sky. Whether you're an avid aurora chaser or embarking on your first aurora adventure, May presents an opportunity to experience the magic of the Northern Lights and immerse yourself in the splendor of the natural world. Dre Erwin, a former Canadian Armed Forces member and dedicated nurse, is an inspirational figure in mental health support. His passion for therapeutic photography and youth well-being has earned widespread recognition. Dre authored the bestselling children's book 'The Little Boy Who Found Happiness in the Most Unusual Place' and was featured in the CBC documentary 'A New Lens on Life' for his innovative approach to mental health challenges. His story inspires nurses and healthcare providers to think creatively and make a positive impact in their practice. Stay connected with us on Facebook for additional tips and tricks: Follow Dre Erwin Photography at https://www.facebook.com/DreErwinPhotography.

Canadians who missed the recent stunning displays of the northern lights across the country, and even as far south as Florida, may still have a chance in the coming weeks. According to Dr. Robyn Fiori from the Canadian Hazards Information Service at Natural Resources Canada, "Right now we're in a period of solar maximum." The sun operates on an 11-year cycle known as the solar cycle, and we're currently experiencing a phase of increased solar activity. "This will be a two or three year period where we’re going to see a lot of solar activity, a lot of X-ray flares, and a lot of CMEs," Dr. Fiori explained. CMEs, or coronal mass ejections, are bursts of plasma from the sun's corona that travel outward at speeds ranging from a couple of hundred to several thousand kilometers per second. When these CMEs interact with Earth's magnetic field, they can cause spectacular auroras, also known as the aurora borealis. However, there's a catch. For the interaction to occur and for us to see the northern lights, the CME must actually hit the Earth. If the eruption occurs on the edge of the sun and is not facing our planet, it will miss us entirely. Dr. Fiori noted a significant solar flare recently, designated X-3 in strength. Solar flares are ranked A, B, C, M, and X, with X being the most intense. This particular flare came from an active region of the sun that is just rotating onto the visible side. If associated with a CME, it wouldn't be directed towards Earth. Since the sun rotates on its axis every 27 days, once an active area turns away from Earth, it won’t be facing us again for almost another month. This rotation could bring new active regions into alignment with our planet. Tracking CMEs is relatively straightforward as scientists can observe them erupt and estimate their speed. However, predicting their impact on auroras is more complex. Dr. Fiori explained, "We need more information than just speed to determine how well a CME will interact with our magnetic field. The more it interconnects, the stronger the auroral response." She added that satellites stationed at the Lagrange point L1, located a few million kilometers from Earth, provide critical data as CMEs pass by. This data helps scientists predict the impact on Earth's magnetic field. Despite the unpredictability, the length of the solar cycle means there are ample opportunities ahead. The solar maximum is expected to peak next year and has already shown more robust activity than the previous cycle. Dr. Fiori also cautioned about potential impacts on technology such as radio communications and global positioning systems. On an individual level, there’s nothing specific you need to do for space weather, but staying informed can heighten your chances of witnessing the northern lights, especially during major geomagnetic storm watches. For the latest updates on space weather, including current geomagnetic activity and storm warnings, visit Space Weather Canada. Dre Erwin, a former Canadian Armed Forces member and dedicated nurse, is an inspirational figure in mental health support. His passion for therapeutic photography and youth well-being has earned widespread recognition. Dre authored the bestselling children's book 'The Little Boy Who Found Happiness in the Most Unusual Place' and was featured in the CBC documentary 'A New Lens on Life' for his innovative approach to mental health challenges. His story inspires nurses and healthcare providers to think creatively and make a positive impact in their practice. Stay connected with us on Facebook for additional tips and tricks: Follow Dre Erwin Photography at https://www.facebook.com/DreErwinPhotography.

I've never regretted stopping or turning my car around to enjoy something spectacular just outside my window. If it makes me say, "Wow!" or fills me with a sense of curiosity, I'm getting out (safely of course!) and taking a photo. I don't ever want to be in too much of a hurry that I can't stop and enjoy something beautiful. "A photograph is the pause button of life." -Author Unknown It could be a surprise field of sunflowers on a lazy, back-road trip home. Or an epic stretch of that rugged Oregon Coast Highway a loved one was proud to show me! I've even stopped for a butterfly I spotted while turning into a grocery store parking lot! Yes really! Nothing on that list was more important than stopping to admire (and capture) my first-ever Eastern Tiger Swallowtail. It was one of the most beautiful and largest butterflies I've ever seen! Most recently, I stopped for a Polka Dot Pond. It made me smile to see it. I couldn't stop smiling the whole time I walked around this little pond in fact...it felt like something out of a cartoon. And I was also super curious to see if I could figure out what was causing it; I have never seen anything like it, and I've driven past this pond many times every winter. (I'm still not sure what was the cause to be honest, maybe just the warmer ground water rising and melting the ice. But I'm sure someone does. Maybe you? If you know, feel free to leave a comment; I would love that!) Have you ever stopped your car to capture the moment (figuratively or literally)? What was it that made you stop? What were you feeling? #viewfromthecar #stopthecariwanttogetout #photvibe #therapeuticphotography #thingsthatmakemesmile

I first saw and captured “Rainbow Clouds” three years ago today! It was one of those life-changing experiences, for a myriad of reasons. They were obviously stunningly beautiful: painted with soft pastels against a sharp sky-blue backdrop. “Wow!” I uttered. Not a very eloquent word, but it fit the moment. It was more than their beauty, though. Seeing them was like receiving a gift…one you had always wanted, but didn’t even know it, kind of a gift. I had been focused on trying to photograph an elusive bird in the pine tree and when it finally flew up and away, my eyes followed. Suddenly I was no longer chasing a bird and found myself just standing there looking at those amazing clouds. I felt a deep sense of joy and gratitude to the Creator for this unexpected gift. I still do. But it was just a month and a half later that these unique clouds became so much more than a beautiful and unexpected gift I photographed. My friend was coming to the end of her life’s journey here on earth after a very long battle with cancer. I had been texting her, sending my love and trying to offer encouragement; I knew rainbows were special to her, so I sent her these photos which spoke what words could not. She often just replied with emojis or not at all, so I was surprised one day when she texted me to ask if she could use the Rainbow Clouds as the cover for her memorial card at her home-going. I didn’t want her to go. I didn’t want to think about memorial cards or never seeing her on this side of heaven. I was believing for her healing. But she was ready, and asking, and so I said nothing of those things. To this day, I cannot see a Rainbow Cloud and not think of Lynn. I am not sad when I do. I miss her of course, and her presence in our circle of family and friends, but I love that they elicit such good memories. She was very much like these clouds actually…quite colorful, very beautiful and a generous giver of the most beautiful gifts: her love, loyalty and laughter. For more information about Rainbow Clouds, you may enjoy this article: https://scijinks.gov/rainbow-clouds/ #rainbowclouds #beauty #remembering #rememberinglynn #clouds #nature #gratitude #therapeuticphotography #photovibe

Music is therapy. Music is my release.... In one of the music Facebook groups I'min, someone asked to name 10 bands that changed your life and why. I couldn't keep it to 10 and I may add more, but here goes.... This was my response: Beastie Boys - 3rd grade in 1986 I got street teamed by someone that was giving out their cassette tapes. I was playing baseball at a park in my hometown in Ohio when someone gave a large group of us their first album. I'm glad my parents were open to letting me listen to it. Turns out, I read in their book 15 years later that they were taking a break from their tour with Madonna and stayed with someone from their production crew that was from my hometown..... crazy. Could have been one of them handing out those tapes... that started my love for music Living Colour - obsessed with Vernon Reids guitar in 7th and 8th grade. Public Enemy - 8th grade.... I had been listening to rap and hip hop for 4-5 years now but Fear of a Black Planet was way different than what I've ever heard before. Smashing Pumpkins - Siamese Dream, Gish, and Pisces Iscariot were the soundtrack to my high school days. The Pharcyde- labcabincalifornia introduced me to J Dilla and his amazing beats. That album was played almost daily in college. Incubus - S.C.I.E.N.C.E was played almost in its entirety the first time I saw them. Free show in New Orleans and only about 15-20 people saw them kill it on stage. They acted like there were 20k in Jimmy's Uptown. Radiohead - I had been a fan in the 90s but KID A is my favorite album ever. The first time I heard it I worked at a CD store and my boss handed me tix to a private listening party pre launch of the album. Me and a buddy went to a hotel downtown New Orleans and they put a couple hundred of us in a conference room and lit insence, turned down the lights, and made us lay in comfortable bean bags. They cranked up the volume, told us to be quiet, and listen to the album in its entirety before taking questions after it. What an experience. I'm sure it was put on by the record label. Mahavishnu Orchestra - the most under rated band of all time. I saw John Mclaughlin perform with Chick Corea and was mesmerized by his guitar skills that night. It was when they made the 5 Peace Band album together with some heavy hitters. The Meters - the godfathers of Funk. The best rhythm section of all time and the true sound of New Orleans. I was able to catch a show in Denver when the original 4 members reunited briefly in the mid 2000s. Fela Kuti - all I can say is WOW. he's a musical God. Introduced me to Afrobeat. Deftones - the first time I saw them they were opening for 311. I never heard of them before. Adrenaline had just come out. Chino stage dived like 6 times and I was floored by their stage presence. They were my new favorite band after that performance. Circa Survive - Juturna got me through Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and my helped me heal. Hum - top 5 band for me. They have everything I love about music in their sound. Good lyrics, riffs, solid rhythm section. Textures and tones that I love. Ups and downs...quiet and heavy. Holy Fawn - my favorite band since 2018. Amazing live. They sounded like the band I was looking for, for years. When I heard Death Spells I was floored. And they keep putting out solid music. Mars volta - de-loused in the Comatorium was introduced to me by a friend that was so excited for me to listen to it. He pressed play, and my jaw was on the ground for the next hour What are yours?

Bone-chilling temperatures transport me back to a Pinehouse winter, a few years ago, where the thermometer defiantly touched -50°C. Common sense dictated staying indoors, but a tempting aurora alert lit up the forecast. Instead of surrendering to the warmth of my home, I chose to brave the cold alone. Little did I know, this decision would lead to capturing breathtaking footage of the aurora borealis – an evening etched into my memory, saved from the shadows of forgetfulness. Defying the Freeze: A Dance with the Aurora The allure of the Northern Lights beckoned, promising a celestial dance in the Arctic sky. The decision to venture out alone was not just about defying the cold; it was an intentional choice to document the beauty that awaited. As I braved the subzero temperatures, each click of the camera became a deliberate act, not merely capturing a moment but weaving a narrative. The Power of Intentional Photography This experience serves as a poignant reminder of the impact of intentional photography. It goes beyond mere image-making; it's about capturing the essence of a moment with purpose and mindfulness. As I review the footage from that night, I realize that intentional photography, whether rooted in the law of attraction or therapeutic principles, holds transformative power. Law of Attraction: Visualizing the Extraordinary In the world of the law of attraction, envisioning a reality you desire is a crucial step towards manifesting it. That night, I envisioned capturing the grandeur of the Northern Lights, and by venturing out, I aligned my actions with that vision. The result was a visual masterpiece that manifested through intent and purpose. Therapeutic Photography: Freezing Moments in Time On a therapeutic level, intentional photography becomes a form of self-expression and introspection. Each photograph frozen in time carries not just the visual splendor of the aurora but also the emotions, resilience, and sense of adventure encapsulated in that freezing night. Conclusion: Beyond the Chill, Into the Light As I share this journey with you through words and images, I invite you to explore intentional photography in your own life. Whether it's aligning with the principles of the law of attraction or finding therapeutic value in freezing moments in time, intentional image-making has the power to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. Join me in revisiting that subzero night, where the Northern Lights painted the sky, and discover how intentional photography can be a bridge between the tangible and the intangible, freezing memories that warm the heart even in the coldest of temperatures.

A lot of times, when family and friends look at my photos, I hear a similar phrase, “How did you even notice that?” Or, “I can’t believe you even saw that.” And I usually reply with, “ I look closely.” It took time to foster this mindset of 'Mindfulness,' (one of the advantages of "Therapeutic Photography". See link below to Dre Erwin's post about all five advantages.). It meant slowing down, stopping, being quiet. Basically, being purposeful about finding things that amaze, inspire and point to the Creator who made them. And quite frankly, it makes me feel very joyful and thankful when I discover something new like this Webworm Moth. It’s exciting too, to see the details and intricacies of something I love and see often, like my great niece’s eye. There's even a reflection of the window she's looking through in it. The macro lens has really helped. I would have never been able to take a photo of these snowflakes on my coat jacket with out it. I’m not exaggerating how awestruck I was not only when I was taking that photo, but even now downloading it here. Which advantage/s listed in Dre's article below resonate for you? I'd love to have a conversation. -Cindy https://www.joinphotovibe.com/forum/659955b07f51880010ba530b/therapeutic-photography-what-s-in-it-for-me?postId=659df3b009f16300103fcc48&origin=notification #therapeuticphotography #lookclosely #macrophotograpy #mindfulness #photovibe

Therapeutic Photography: Cat-Ice & Connections For as long as I can remember, I’ve loved taking pictures; a gift both my parents gave me. I grew up in the era of slide projectors and grainy home movies. After capturing special moments at a gathering of any kind, Mom and Dad would set up the projector, take paintings off a wall, pop some corn and invite family and friends to enjoy the show. Abundant love and laughter filled that room and our hearts. All these years later, I treasure those memories. I’ve shown my great nieces and nephews (ages 6-15) many of my photos: frogs, rocks (we're all rockhounds) and of course themselves to name a few, and it’s like a miniature version of those home movie parties of my childhood. The best part? They’ve begun taking pictures themselves. They can’t even wait until they see me. They’ll ask their moms to text me the photo/s. The first time my oldest great-niece, So, sent me a photo was back in 2021, when she was in 4th grade. It was just after Thanksgiving. At our family get together, I had showed her and her sister some photos of cat-ice I had seen earlier that week. They thought it was cool looking, just as I knew they would. Only a few days later, our world was rocked by the heart-wrenching news of a local school shooting. Before heading to school, their mom had to somehow talk about this horrific tragedy, pray with and comfort these little ones. After many tears and lots of questions, as they were leaving the house, So spotted some cat-ice in a hole on their driveway. She begged her mom for the phone to take a photo and send it to me. I was so grateful for the photos of the cat-ice I had noticed, captured and showed to my great nieces on Thanksgiving. Because on one of the hardest days of their small lives, it gave them something to connect to--happier times, safe times, a great aunt who loves them, a sense of wonder and beauty, and even hope. #therapeuticphotography #photographicconnections #photovibe #connections

In the realm of personal growth and success, few stories resonate as profoundly as that of actor and comedian Jim Carrey. His journey from struggling comedian to Hollywood superstar is not just a tale of talent and perseverance but a testament to the transformative power of positive thinking and the belief that when one door closes, another opens. The Power of Visualization: A Blank Check for $10 Million Jim Carrey's story begins during a time of financial hardship and uncertainty in his career. Faced with rejection and setbacks, he took a bold step - he wrote himself a check for $10 million, postdated it for five years into the future, and carried it with him everywhere. This symbolic gesture wasn't just wishful thinking; it was a manifestation of his unwavering belief in his own potential. Living in the Future: The Law of Attraction in Action Carrey didn't stop at writing the check; he lived as if that future reality was already his. He visualized himself receiving that $10 million, attracting success through the Law of Attraction. It was a radical shift in mindset, a conscious effort to focus on the positive, even when faced with challenges. Persistence in the Face of Rejection Carrey's journey was far from smooth sailing. Rejections and hardships continued, but he remained resolute in his belief that a new opportunity would present itself. He stayed committed to his craft, honing his skills, and, in the process, proving that resilience and persistence are crucial ingredients in any success story. The Unveiling of Destiny: Hollywood Superstardom As the postdated check approached its due date, Carrey's career took a remarkable turn. He landed the lead role in "Dumb and Dumber," earning a whopping $10 million for his performance. The check he had written to himself had become a reality, not through luck alone but through a combination of hard work, talent, and an unshakable belief in the possibility of a brighter future. Closing Thoughts: Your Manifestation Journey Begins Now Jim Carrey's story serves as a powerful reminder that our thoughts and beliefs shape our reality. While not everyone may resonate with the concept of the Law of Attraction, there's an undeniable truth in the idea that maintaining a positive mindset, coupled with unwavering determination, can lead to incredible outcomes. As you navigate your own journey, remember that when one door closes, another opens. Embrace challenges, visualize success, and persist in the pursuit of your dreams. Your future, much like Jim Carrey's, may hold uncharted opportunities waiting to be unveiled. Photovibe: Capturing the Essence of Possibility Just as Jim Carrey's story exemplifies the profound impact of positive thinking, Photovibe encapsulates a similar spirit in the realm of therapeutic photography. The essence of Photovibe lies in capturing not just moments, but the potential for transformation and healing within each frame. By merging the art of photography with the Law of Attraction, Photovibe provides a platform for individuals to visualize and manifest positivity through the lens. Every photo becomes a canvas for personal growth and intentional living, echoing the idea that when one door closes, the images we capture hold the key to unlocking new, unexplored opportunities. Through the visual narratives shared on Photovibe, users can embark on a manifestation journey of their own, discovering the power of imagery to shape and illuminate the path to a brighter future. -Dre Erwin https://www.facebook.com/DreErwinPhotography Learn more about Photovibe here What's therapeutic Photography? Law of Attraction

https://youtu.be/YS299z6ahsk?si=627O3y5UB6qxlO8C Rick Rubin has influenced most of us in some way and you may not even recognize his name. If you've listened to ANY in any genre music in the last 40 years, chances are you have listened to an album that Rick has been a part of. If you do a quick Google search of "Rick Rubin albums" you'll find something that you love on that list. Where Rick excels at is coaching people to be creative. Check out the podcast link on this post to have your mind blown in his thought processes and how to succeed in life in general. Take care of yourself first! He's a treasure and one of the most influential people in the world.

The hustle and bustle of the daily grind can really get to us and change our moods quickly from good to bad so it's important to find a place where you can go to escape the noise around you or in your head. I found such a place when I was younger, in my teens, near my home town in NW Ohio. This place is called "the Spot" It is the one place in earth that I have found where the stillness and peace and quiet are louder than everything going on around me and I'm lucky I found it at a young age. I love laying on my back so I can watch the treetops sway in the gentle breeze. I hear birds chirping and the crashing of branches from deer that run through the area. But most importantly, I hear nothing at times and this clears my head. I've traveled to many places but I was lucky enough to find a place just miles away from my home where I can center myself. And I make it a point to stop there for a few hours every single time I go home. There's a feeling of nostalgic calmness that takes over my body and mind. So get out there, and find your "Spot" You'll be glad you did....