365 More People Pictures - Week 48

Hello! This is week 48 of the 365 More People Pictures Project.

In real time, I've actually finished this second 365 Day project.  I've decided to combine the first 365 Day Project, together with this 365 Day Project, add another 270 Days, and call it: "1KPhotoaday." I'm currently working on the last 270 photos, and I instagram those pictures daily.

I'm sorry I've fallen so behind on the blog.  Summer is peak season at my work and some big life changes are happening right now.  I've fallen behind and it's been a challenge to catch up.  Please know that I've continued to take a picture of a person every day, and if you'd like to follow along with the daily photo, my Instagram username is @missellanea.

Day 48 - Edward

This is Edward.  We met at a rest stop along I-5.

The happiest thing happening in Edward's life, is his 10-year-old Son.

When I asked Edward his life's purpose, he explained that it changes all the time, but presently ,"it's my family...taking care of them."

"My career has been a success so far, and the raising of my family...that's what drives me," Edward said, when I asked something about himself he considers to be a success.

Thank you, Edward.

Day 330 - Deandre

This is Deandre.  We met walking down the street.

"My children," Deandre answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Deandre's life's purpose:  "to add to life."

"Graduating high school," Deandre said, is something about himself he considers a success.

Thank you, Deandre! Wishing you and your children much happiness.

Day 331 - Neil

This is Neil.

The happiest thing happening in his life is graduating college.  Neil looked so stylish and professional, I assumed he had already landed a job after college and had just finished work, but Neil explained that he had been out job-hunting all day.  I asked Neil what his dream job would be and he said working for ESPN.

"To learn and to educate others," Neil answered, when I asked his life's purpose.

When I asked Neil something about himself which he considers a success, he answered, "it took 8 years but I finished a college degree while holding down a job and going to school."

Congratulations, Neil!  Wishing you the very best of luck in finding a job that both fulfills and sustains you.

Day 332 - Elissa

This is Elissa. We met at the bus stop.

When I asked Elissa the happiest thing happening in her life right now, she said that she's happy when she's tending to the plants she's growing, or whenever she's outside, or riding her bike.

I asked Elissa if she's recently performed an act of kindness or if she's been on the receiving end of kindness.  On the receiving end, her co-worker had just given her a ride to the bus stop where we met.  The ride cut out a ton of travel time and a couple busses on her commute home.  On the giving end, Elissa found $10 and a receipt at the store.  She gave both the money and the receipt to the cashier, hoping it could be returned.

"To realize my gifts and to embody them, and to use, or be, them to the fullest," Elissa answered, when I asked her life's purpose.

Elissa's answer touches on why I even ask this question.  There are some pretty amazing people in my life, both personally and professionally.  The only downside of being around so many amazing people who have their shit together, is that it can really cause you to question and examine your own life, sometimes resulting in massive feelings of inadequacy.  Maybe "inadequacy" isn't the right word.  At the very least, amazing people who have their shit together, motivate you to want to get your own shit together too!

One of the common characteristics of some of the people I admire and who are of inspiration to me, is that they don't wander aimlessly in life.  They live with purpose and it seems like they've had definiteness of purpose nearly their entire lives.  Like Elissa, even if they didn't know that exact purpose, they didn't sit around waiting for purpose to find them.  They explored life, looking for meaning and their place in it.

Yes, I think it's probably apparent from this project and the questions that I ask, that I'm experiencing a bit of an existential crisis.  I would blame it on my age, mid-40's, but I think I've been this way my entire life.  I believe we're here for a reason, and as much as I've searched, I've not yet found mine. Hearing the answers of all of the subjects in this project is getting me closer to the target.   Even the subjects in this project who believe we really have no set purpose in life, ironically, seem to fill the purpose of reminding the rest of us to be easy, have fun, enjoy life, and that pursuing happiness is an adequate and admirable purpose in life.

This project has gotten me closer to my life's purpose than anything I've experienced so far...I know it is part of my purpose.  At least, it feels like the only meaningful thing I've done with myself in my 40-something years.  But, I'm not done yet.

Thank you, Elissa.  One of  your gifts is planting seeds...be it seeds of actual plants, or of ideas. You help things to grow.

Day 333 - Tiana

This is Tiana.  We met on the street.

The happiest thing happening in Tiana's life is that she just moved to Portland.

When I asked if she had recently performed and act of kindness or if she's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness, she said that a friend drove with her to help her move from Nebraska to Portland!  What a great friend!

"To bear witness to other people's journey and to lead them gently back to themselves," Tiana said, is her life's purpose.  If you gathered from Tiana's answer that she's a social worker, you would be correct.

Thank you, Tiana! Welcome to Portland!

Day 334 - Michelle

This is Michelle.  We met on the street.

The happiest thing happening in her life is her new job, and hanging out with friends.

Michelle's recent act of kindness is that she gave a BBQ dinner to her neighbor who has 3 kids.

"To care about others and to give to others whatever I can," Michelle answered, when I asked her life's purpose.   Michelle added that we always have something we could give, share or do for others.  We may not have unlimited funds, but we can always give of our time or of ourselves.

Day 335 -  Ryan

This is Ryan.  We met on the street.

The happiest thing happening in his life is his new job.

When I asked Ryan if he's recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of kindness, he answered, "both."  Ryan collects jackets and clothing for homeless people and some of the local bars even help him in his collection efforts by setting out collection barrels to gather clothing.  On the receiving end, his bike got a flat tire and a complete stranger gave him a ride home!

"To serve, and to be the neighbor that everybody wants," Ryan answered, when I asked his life's purpose.

"That I'm still alive," Ryan answered, when I asked something about himself he considers a success.

Thank you, Ryan.  I would want you for my neighbor.

Here's a summary of the life's purposes of the subjects from this week:

• It's my family...taking care of them.
• To add to life.
• To learn and educate others.
• To realize my gifts and to embody them, and to use, or be, them to the fullest.
• To bear witness to other people's journey and to lead them gently back to themselves.
• To care about others and to give to others whatever I can.
• To serve, and to be the neighbor that everybody wants.

Thank you for reading, and thank you to every subject in this project.  If you're happy with your picture and would like a copy, please don't hesitate to email me.

365 More People Pictures - Week 47

Hi there! These are the subjects from week 47 of the 365 More People Pictures project.

Day 322 - Zach

This is Zach.  We met at a park along the Columbia River.

I didn't know when I approached Zach that he's homeless, although that's not the word he would use.  He described himself as being a traveler.  When I asked him the happiest thing happening in his life right now, he spread his arms out wide and presented the park, the river, the picnic table, and his friend and guitar nearby and answered, "this."  Whatever one would call Zach's situation, in that moment, I found it to be completely freeing and beautiful.  It takes a strong, faithful and fearless person to live the life of a traveler.

I asked Zach if he had recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness.  Zach explained he's on both the giving and receiving end of kindness every single day.  He receives sustenance from the kindness of strangers who give him food and water, and when he receives too much, he shares with the other travelers he meets.  Earlier that day, he had also helped a lady in a wheelchair who was struggling to get across the street. Everyone else just watched her struggle, but Zach acted and helped her to cross the street safely.

"To be happy," Zach answered, when I asked his life's purpose.

When I asked Zach something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered that he's able to eat every day.  He knows his lifestyle isn't easy to understand, but in going without, he actually gains so much more than some people who "have everything."

Zach explained that because he doesn't have the luxury of being able to be on a smartphone at all times, he's able to observe his surroundings and connect with people, just like the experience we were sharing at that moment.  I'm grateful to this project and my desire to learn photography because it's forced me to put down my phone and look at the beauty all around.

Thank you, Zach. Safe and happy travels.

Day 323 - Mose

This is Mose.  We met at the bus stop.  Mose spoke so eloquently and poetically, I failed to keep up.   I wish I could have paused and recorded him on video.  It turned out that Mose actually is a poet.

The happiest thing happening in his life right now is his process of self-discovery.

When I asked Mose if he had recently performed an act of kindness, or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness, he answered that he tries to perform kindness every day.  He's always certain to express grace and appreciation.

The blog is behind real-time, and because of that, my memory has faded a bit.  As I mentioned, Mose's speech is poetic and fluid.  Imagine trying to write down every word Eminem says as he's rapping...well, it was like that with Mose.  No matter how hard I try to connect the dots, I've left too many gaps in my notes, simply because I was too slow to keep up.  I asked Mose his life's purpose and here are some of the quotes of which I can fully make out in my journal:

"Large scale empowerment."

"Celebrating our own achievements, the gift of life, and finding our own calling in life in their noble and sincere forms."

"Create loving actions, take it, share it, expand it."

"Find the extraordinary out of the ordinary."

"Get beyond survival, and self-actualize."

I know I'm missing out on the connectors which made this all a fluid and beautiful conversation, but I did manage to document the high points.  As you can tell, Mose knows.

When I asked Mose something about himself that he would consider to be a success, he answered, "celebrating every challenge...my brilliance is my resilience."

Thank you, Mose. It was such a pleasure meeting you.  I may have forgotten some of your beautiful words, but you, Sir, are completely unforgettable.

Day 324 - Kevin

This is Kevin.  We met outside of Sam's Billiards.

Kevin is pretty amazing.  What's not pictured here in this portrait, is Kevin's wheels.  (His wheelchair.)  What's also not pictured is Kevin's sheer will, guts, determination and perseverance.

I had taken Kevin's picture and asked him the 4 interview questions and was basically  wrapping up and saying goodbye.  I wasn't going to ask Kevin about the wheelchair, but something just felt off.  It felt like failing to acknowledge Kevin's wheels would have been more disrespectful and awkward than it would be to ask Kevin his story.   It just felt right to ask more questions, and learn more about Kevin and his life.  Looking back, I understand that it was Kevin who put me at ease with his welcoming and friendly nature.

Kevin had Spina Bifida as a child.  His life expectancy was only a few years but against all odds, he lived to grow into an adult and was even well enough to join the military.  I asked Kevin if the chair was a result of combat.  Kevin explained that shortly after he finished active duty, he went on vacation in Mexico to compete in a surfing competition.  I know you can tell where this is leading...yes, Kevin was attacked by a shark during the middle of the competition!  The shark got hold of Kevin, and as a result, Kevin ended up losing his leg.

At this point, I had to ask Kevin if he was actually being serious, or if this was the story he told to strangers.  We both laughed and he said it was the real deal.  He didn't have to make up a shark-attack story because he actually lived through one.

The shark took Kevin's leg, but not his spirit. Kevin feels like the shark attack was a wake-up call and now he's grateful to be alive every day. Kevin said that prior to the shark attack and before losing his leg, he was living a pretty fast life and he knows he wasn't always as nice as he should have been.

Kevin's situation has given him empathy and compassion for others and he has an entirely new perspective on people and life.  I got the feeling that Kevin, pre-shark-attack, most likely wouldn't have given me the time of day had I approached him on the street and asked if I could take his picture and ask him a few questions.  Had Kevin not had a group of friends waiting for him inside Sam's, I think this post-shark-attack Kevin, would have visited with me long into the evening. Kevin's outlook is so courageous and amazing, and he's clearly done a lot of work in self-examination.  Of course, we can't help but feel for Kevin and wish that he hadn't experienced this loss, but I truly feel like Kevin truly feels he's a better person for enduring the loss. He went so far as to say that losing his leg in the shark attack, quite possibly saved his life.  Kevin's positive outlook is an inspiration.

At the time we met, the happiest thing happening in his life was that he was out enjoying good times with his friends.

Kevin's recent act of kindness is that he's been helping a friend whose wife had just passed away.  Kevin has just been trying to be there for his friend in any way that he can...which was mainly, just being there.  Kevin is able to be someone else's strength and comfort because Kevin has experienced tremendous loss and grief.

"Helping people," Kevin answered, when I asked his life's purpose.

When I asked Kevin something about himself which he considers to be a success, Kevin answered, "living."

Thank you, Kevin. I didn't know you before, but the person you are now is a true class act.  Wishing you the best of happiness.

Day 325 - Jake

This is Jake.  The happiest thing happening in his life right now is that he's going to art school.  Jake never thought art school could be a reality.

"To live my life to the fullest and create art," Jake answered, when I asked his life's purpose.

When I asked Jake something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered, "trying to live my life as a good person."

Thank you, Jake! Wishing you luck and success in school!

Day 326 - Greg

This is Greg.  We met at a fireworks stand near Hoodsport, Washington.  (The location of our little cabin in the woods, where I will most likely be living soon.)

When we met, the happiest thing happening in his life was spending the holiday weekend at home in Mason County. (Hoodsport.)  He's currently living in Mexico and was happy to be home.

Greg's recent act of kindness is that he gives money away.

"To not become like everybody else," Greg answered, when I asked his life's purpose.

"That I'm not like everybody else," Greg answered with a laugh, when I asked him something about himself which he would consider to be a success.

Thank you, Greg.

Day 327 - Shilo

This is Shilo. We also met at a fireworks stand, one in which he owned and operated with the help of some of his friends.

If/when I do move to Hoodsport, I'm actually quite worried about finding subjects for this project.  The town is tiny, as in, itty-bitty.  Although the population swells to a few thousand people during the weekend, especially in summer months, I feel super embarrassed and unsure when approaching people in town. It feels like people are there to escape the city...not to have some weirdo asking them for their picture. The town is so small, once word gets out that there's a weirdo-woman who goes around asking people for their picture and an "interview,"  I'm afraid I will quickly become an unwanted pest.  I'm trying to be optimistic that instead of being viewed as an unwanted pest of which to avoid, I'll be received and welcomed as a quirky person with a fun little hobby, and maybe people will even look forward to the day when it's their turn to be in the project.

Luckily, for this first real trial run, there were quite a few people in for the holiday weekend and I felt comfortable hitting up the fireworks stands in search of subjects.

"Beer," Shilo joked, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Shilo's recent act of kindness is that he often gives away fireworks to kids.

"To be cool," Shilo answered, when I asked his life's purpose.  Shilo's friend piped up and added that Shilo is the most well-known guy in town. "He's known for being cool," his friend said.

When I asked Shilo something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered, "just my life."

Thank you, Shilo.  Mr. Cool.

Day 328 - Ashley

This is Ashley. You guessed it... we met at the fireworks stand owned and operated by Ashley and her family.  I showed up right at dinner time and at first, I don't think Ashley's family was too happy to see me. I think they thought I was inviting myself to dinner when I asked what was on the grill.

Ashley was celebrating her 8-year relationship when we met, and it was the happiest thing happening in her life at the time.

"To be with my family," Ashley answered, when I asked her life's purpose.

When I asked Ashley something about herself which she would consider to be a success, she said that it was their business selling fireworks.

Thank you, Ashley.

Here's the summary of the life's purposes of the subjects from this week:

• To be happy.
• Large scale empowerment.
• Celebrating our own achievements, the gift of life, and finding our own calling in their noble and sincere forms.
• Create loving actions, take it, share it, expand it.
• Find the extraordinary out of the ordinary.
• Get beyond survival, and self actualize.
• Helping people.
• To be cool.
• To be with my family.

Thank you to every subject in this project, and thank you for following along.

365 More People Pictures - Week 46

Hello! These are the subjects from week 46.

In real-time, the project just ended this past Monday, August 10th.  The blog is behind a few weeks and I will continue to share the rest of the subjects from the 365 More People Pictures project.

I finished the first project and never really wrote a full summary as I felt I should have, but instead I just dove right into this second year.  As the end of this current project was approaching, I put enormous amounts of pressure on myself that I really need to write something spectacular...or at the very least, special.  I wonder if I allowed myself to fall behind on this blog as a way to force myself to spend time in reflection over all I have learned throughout these past two years?

All of these people, all of the wisdom they've shared...it feels like I was entrusted with this and now I need to do something with it. It needs to be bigger than what it is here on my little blog.  But when I think about that, about that possibility, it becomes entirely too overwhelming for me.  I shut down, and then all I want to do is keep on keeping on...just as things are.

I just want to continue taking a picture of a person every day.  I just want to force myself each day to be brave, talk with a person, learn a little more about them,  exchange genuine warmth and interest with another person, and through it all, hopefully capture them at the precise moment in which their sparkle, or their beautiful nature, becomes apparent to me. And I want to share it with you.

A better person could make something more of this.  A better person could assemble all of these beautiful people and their beautiful messages together and create a book.  Or at the very least, a better person could write some advice to photographers wishing to challenge themselves to a 365 Day Project. Although I'm lacking the knowledge to teach anyone anything about photography, I've learned a thing or two about perseverance.   I feel like I owe it to these subjects, and I owe it to the effort I've given this the past two years, to creating at least something which will help inspire or encourage others.

For now, I'll continue sharing the subjects for this project.   Perhaps I will be able to create some final words or something bigger to thank and honor these people the way they deserve to be honored and thanked.  I may not succeed at any sort of book, or any sort of beautifully written and inspiring essay...but this process, and every subject in this project, has changed me.

Day 315 - Kim

This is Kim, my sister-in-law.

Even in its final days, I appreciated this project and process because were it not for this, I wouldn't have shared this moment with Kim.  We see each other only at special occasions and holidays when the family gathers.  I realized that Kim and I haven't really talked other than to catch up briefly on the happenings of our lives, which really only scratches just the surface.  You know how that goes.

Visiting with Kim and asking these 4 simple questions, the same ones I've been asking strangers, provided us both with the opportunity to get to know each other a little better.

The happiest thing happening in Kim's life right now is spending the summer with her kids.

I asked Kim if she had recently performed an act of kindness or if she had been on the receiving end of an act of kindness.  She thought about it for a moment and remembered that one of her friends had just given her some plants. Kim was feeling bad because she couldn't remember a specific example of an act of kindness which she had performed.  I laughed as I had to remind her that less than a few minutes earlier, she had given me a surprise gift of a beautiful necklace she made.  (Check out Kim's necklaces here.)   She had completely forgotten the kind gesture she had performed just a few minutes prior.

I've noticed most of the subjects in this project have trouble thinking of, or remembering, specific acts.  I think we often forget because we've performed the act selflessly.   Although it's often difficult to think of a specific act we may have performed, it's been a common trait that nearly every single one of us strives to be kind and to do kind things for others.  We can be pretty beautiful creatures.

"To be a good mom, to serve God, to be a good friend to people, and to be a good wife," Kim answered, when I asked her life's purpose.  She does, and is, all of these things.

When I asked Kim something about herself which she would consider to be a success, she answered, "I have good kids...they're happy kids."

Thank you, Kim.

Day 316 - Rich

This is Rich. We met at the park.

"My recovery," Rich answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.  Rich is celebrating close to 4 year, sober.  Awesome work, Rich!

I asked Rich if he had recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of kindness.  Rich explained that he was on the receiving end of kindness in recovery and in the AA program, and now he's able to be on the giving end.  Through his work in the program, he wants to "give back to the next suffering alcoholic, the same way it was so freely given to me."  Rich had also recently paid for a guy's groceries at the store.

"To help others," Rich answered, when I asked his life's purpose.

As happens so frequently in this project, when I asked Rich something about himself which he would consider to be a success, the answer was the same for this question as it was for the first. "My recovery," Rich said, without hesitation.

Rich, wishing you the very best of luck and success in recovery and in helping others. Keep up the hard work. Keep up the good work.  Thank you.

Day 317 - Josh

This is Josh.  We met at the bus stop.

The happiest thing happening in his life is letting go to a lot of his attachment to ego.

Josh was recently on both the giving and receiving end of kindness when someone reached out for some help online, and Josh was able to offer help to that person.  Kindness came full circle, when it was Josh who needed help with a situation. He put out a request online and someone was able to return the act of kindness and provide Josh with assistance and answers.

"Self-fulfillment, my spiritual quest, and discovering my true self," Josh answered, when I asked his life's purpose.  (I get it, Josh.  Sometimes I think it's the true reason I've found myself in this project.)

"Realizing that I'm something more than what I thought I was, detaching from ego," Josh answered, when I asked something about himself which he would consider to be a success.

Thank you, Josh.

Day 318 - James

This is James.  We met outside Hollywood Theatre.

"My son just turned 4," James answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

James' recent act of kindness is that he was treating friends to a movie.

"To be a good father and husband," James said, is his life's purpose.

Something about himself which he would consider to be a success is his family.

Thank you, James.

Day 319 - Arielle

This is Arielle.

The happiest thing happening in her life right now is that she just moved to Portland, from Texas.

I asked Arielle if she's recently performed an act of kindness and she explained that she's hoping to become a volunteer at an arts center as soon as she gets settled.

"Helping people learn their full potential," Arielle answered, when I asked her life's purpose.

"I'm not a quitter," Arielle said, when I asked something about herself which she would consider to be a success.  Attagirl, Arielle!  I love Arielle's answer and what I loved even more is that she didn't even have to think about it.  She answered quickly and confidently...and having been one to say that about myself, I think I have insight into her little secret.  When Arielle said the words, I think she was both congratulating and convincing her own self just as much as she was answering my question.  Keep it up, Arielle.  You're not a quitter. I can just feel it.

Day 320 - Joe

This is Joe.  Although we met randomly on the street, I soon realized he was the same Joe with whom I had been working with on some personal business throughout that previous week!

The happiest thing happening in Joe's life is summer, here in Portland.

Joe's recent act of kindness is that he opened up his home to 5 friends who were on an epic road trip! Not only did he let them stay at his place, he fed them too! (And I would say he was also quite helpful and attentive to me as I was about to undertake something scary!)

"To make other people happy," Joe answered, is his life's purpose.

I asked Joe something about himself he would consider to be a success and he answered that it was being here on the west coast. He had set a goal for himself that he wanted to move here by his 25th birthday, and he just celebrated his 25th here in Portland!

Thank you, Joe. Welcome to Portland, and thank you for your help!

Day 321 - Erek

This is Erek. He's my dear friend's brother.

It's so confounding.  One of my best photos ever taken was of Erek, but on this night, I could not make a decent image to save my life.  I was having some technical issues, but once that was sorted out, I should have done better.  Erik is a great subject but I just couldn't perform.

Until starting this project, I didn't have a complete understanding or appreciation of success and failure in photography.   I never understood that for one decent or good picture, there were thousands and thousands of others which weren't good, or which were actually pretty horrible. The downside of a 365 Day Project, at least the way I've approached it, is that I've had to share all of those off-days to keep the 365 day streak intact.  I've had to show everything...some of which actually make me cringe when I look at the photos. I've had to share every single mistake...the same mistakes I make day after day after day.  And then every once in a while, we have a decent picture.  I feel extremely vulnerable and naked in this project, but I wouldn't want it any other way. (For now, at least.)

The happiest thing happening in Erek's life right now is being a father.

I asked Erek if he's recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness. Erek said that he always tries to be nice to everyone.

When I asked Erik his life's purpose, he said that 6 years ago, he lacked the direction to be able to answer this question but now he's certain his life's purpose is, "being a father and raising my son to grow up to be a good man."  I'm certain you're doing this, Erek.  You're a great dad.

Something about himself which he considers to be a success is that he's never tried any sort of drugs.  Although he's been around it,  he's never been influenced.

Thank you, Erek.

Here's a summary of the life's purposes of the subjects from this week:

• To be a good mom, to serve God, to be a good friend to people, and to be a good wife.
• To help others.
• Self-fulfillment, my spiritual quest, and discovering my true self.
• To be a good father and husband.
• Helping people learn their full potential.
• To make other people happy.
• Being a father and raising my son to grow up to be a good man.

Thank you for reading!

365 More People Pictures - Week 45

Hello! This is week 45 of the 365 More People Pictures Project.

Day 308 - Tamera

This is Tamera.  We met at the park.  I spotted her sitting at a picnic table, reading a book.

The happiest thing happening in Tamera's life right now is that she recently learned she and her family will be staying in Portland.  They were facing the possibility of a transfer, but are happy to be staying here in the Northwest.

When I asked Tamera if she's recently performed an act of kindness, or if she's been on the receiving end of kindness, she told me about her tight-knit group of neighbors who are constantly performing kind acts for one another. It sounds like in Tamera's neighborhood, one day you'll find yourself on the giving end of kindness, but the next day, you will be on the receiving end of your neighbor's kindness.  They provide child care for each other, prepare and deliver meals to each other when one might be in need of a little extra help, and most of all, they provide friendship and a true sense of community for one another.  It reminds me of how we lived decades ago.

"To be as kind and loving as possible to the people around me, and to make the world a better place wherever I am," Tamera answered, when I asked if she had a personal mission statement.  Tamera added that her life's purpose is to care for her daughter.

Thank you, Tamera.

Day 309 - Angie

This is Angie.

The happiest thing happening in her life is that she's settling into her new house.

Angie's recent act of kindness is that she donated to a group of kids who were fundraising.

"To make people laugh," Angie answered, when I asked her life's purpose.

When I asked Angie something about herself which she would consider to be a success, she answered that it was that she was able to overcome financial burdens.  Congratulations!

Thank you, Angie.

Day 310 - Marie

This is Marie.  We met at the bus stop.

"I'm just learning to be happier and more positive," Marie answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in her life right now.

Marie's recent act of kindness is that she helped one of her customers pay the difference when they came up short on their purchase. In general, Marie said that she always tries to be friendly and helpful at her job and wants to help make others happy.

"Trying to help others and help the planet," Marie answered, when I asked her life's purpose.

Something about herself which she would consider to be a success is that she's done well at her first job. She's worked there for over a year and is pleased with her job stability.

Thank you, Marie.

Day 311 - Trevor and Noah

These are two complete strangers, hugging.  I wish that every day in this project could have been like this one.  I pushed myself a little harder and just happened to meet two awesome guys who were willing to push themselves too.

This is Trevor (right) and Noah (left).  We met outside Sam's Billiards.  I approached and asked which one of them would let me take their picture for the project.  They were both up for it!  Hearing they were both up for it, I knew this was going to be my chance to try something I've been dreaming about.  I explained to the pair that I've been wanting to do something with strangers interacting because I want others to experience the same joy and full heart this project has provided to me.  Again, they were up for it!

I asked the two if they would be willing to hug.  Obviously...they were up for it!  What I love most about this, is that the hug was solid and genuine.

The two let go of any fears and apprehension, and hugged a stranger with the love one would have hugged their brother they hadn't seen in a while.  I felt the love and positive energy just being an observer of this beautiful interaction.  This was one of the best days in the entire two-year project.

Noah was just coming off the receiving end of 2.5 months of kindness. He had been touring with his  band and it's the kindness of others which propels bands from one town to the next.

"The fact that I'm always trying to succeed," Noah answered, when I asked something about himself which he would consider to be a success.

The happiest thing happening in Trevor's life at the time, was that he was on vacation with his girlfriend...and deciding to play pool at a random bar.  (Which is where we met, and were now all hugging strangers.)

"Eat, sleep, fuck, and to be happy and to help everyone else around me to succeed," Trevor answered, when I asked his life's purpose.  "Hey, I'm an animal," he explained.  (Yes, a sweet, adorable, loving little animal.)

Thank you, Noah and Trevor.  Thank you for your kindness in allowing me to take your picture, and for being brave enough and loving enough, to hug a complete stranger.  You two are awesome.

Day 312 - Al

This is Al.

The happiest thing happening in his life is his new girlfriend.

Al's recent act of kindness is that he helped pull a guy's truck out of the sand where he had become stuck.

"Surfing," Al answered, when I asked his life's purpose.

"I'm a jack of all trades. I can learn just about anything, fast," Al answered, when I asked something about himself which he would consider to be a success.

Al was such an easy-going person.  Throughout this project, I've often been so pressured by time (trying to get a picture before a subject's bus arrives) that I've sacrificed quality about 98% of the time.  Given the nature of this project and the way in which I've approached it, I've been forgiving of myself.  However, if you continue to do something incorrectly, day after day, month after month, you will train yourself in bad habits and any progress will be slow and in tiny little increments. (Exactly how it's been for me.)

It's like I continue to take "bad" pictures, knowing they're bad!   Sometimes they're accidentally bad, but most times I've simply not taken the time to make them better. I already feel awkward and weird asking a person for their picture. It feels like people would get annoyed or upset if I then take them over to a spot where the light or background would be better. They're already taking time out of their day for me...it feels like I'd really be pushing my luck to then ask them to go to a different location. (Not to mention, I might really creep them out!)  However, I could see the light was beautiful in this little corridor in-between two buildings. I could see it was there, but because I don't practice it enough, I was having a hard time finding the sweet spot. Al was so patient with me as we moved a few steps up, a few steps back, a few steps left, then a few steps right. I realize that had I approached this project with the same determination I had that day, the results would have been better.  Al was patient and kind enough to let me take my time so that I could try a little harder than usual.

Thank you, Al.

Day 313 - Chris

This is Chris.  We met at the bus stop.

The blog is behind from real-time and things have changed from when Chris and I met.  I'll share the answers he gave at the time, and then the update we shared via e-mail.

"A fresh start - I just moved to Portland," Chris answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.  Chris had just come from a job interview when we met, and he was on his way back to his hotel.

I asked Chris his life's purpose and he answered, "to live as genuinely as possible and to publish a book that resonates with people."  Chris is a writer and you can learn more about his work at www.ahliterature.org

"I got here on my own," Chris answered, when I asked something about himself which he considers to be a success.  Chris packed up and moved to Portland, determined to make a new life here.

After meeting Chris, he immediately emailed me, explaining that he felt like a deer-in-the-headlights when we met, and that he would be more comfortable answering the questions in writing so that he could give them more thought and consideration.  I completely understand this.  If someone were to approach me on the street and ask me these questions, I would babble non-sensibly.  I would also much rather prefer to write the answers than give a verbal in-person interview.

I find written communication to be preferred over the spoken word.  I feel awful about this trait.  It's nice knowing others have this preference as well.  It's not that I dislike talking with people. I love it, actually.  It's just that communication is a puzzle for me.  Each word is its special little piece of the puzzle and when you assemble them correctly, a beautiful picture is revealed.  When speaking with another person,  it's like each word, or puzzle piece, has a helium balloon attached to it.  Trying to arrange the words in proper order to convey a thought is like trying to grasp at the words as they're floating away.  Once caught, the words continue to be mischievous and disobedient.  When speaking, I continually arrange the words incorrectly.  Half of the words, puzzle pieces,  still manage to escape my grasp and are lifted away by their little helium-filled balloon, never to return to my mind or my mouth in time to be properly aligned with the other words.  With all of those missing words, puzzle pieces, my thoughts, the picture, can never be delivered the way in which I intended.   And as I age, I've discovered that the puzzle pieces are now escaping my capture in the the written word as well.  It is one of my biggest fears, turning into reality, that words will continue to float away from me forever.  With all those missing words, those missing pieces,  I will never be able to reveal the beautiful picture.

Time passed.

Chris did get the job here in Portland but finding an affordable place to live proved to be impossible.  Chris returned home.  So much has happened since we met.  Time passed and so so did his mood, or at least the spirit he was feeling when we met.  Chris no longer felt like re-visiting the questions in order to provide written answers.  I'm so sad Portland was unable to provide for Chris.  He was so happy to be here.  He found a job immediately and loved our city, but we failed at providing Chris with a place to call home.

I'm just really bummed about this.  I enjoyed meeting Chris and was hoping to bump into him again in the future.  It's been over 20 years since I've been on the hunt for an apartment or living situation in Portland, and now I'm also experiencing this challenge firsthand.  It's now extremely difficult to find an affordable place to live here.

Chris, wishing you the very best of luck and success, and the completion of your book.  It was a pleasure meeting you.  Thank you.

Day 314 - Eddie

This is Eddie.  He's another one of the most soft-spoken, sweetest people in this project.  His style screams to be noticed, but his calm and gentle nature is more of a whisper.

The happiest thing happening in Eddie's life right now is his work with bridle leather.  Eddie hand-crafts leather goods. I'm determined to find the shop in which he sells some of this things, and then I'll report back to you.

Eddie's recent act of kindness is that he returned someone's wallet.  It was a bit of a chase, but he was able to return the wallet to it's rightful owner.

"I'm a nihilist.  I don't think there there is a purpose in life," Eddie answered, when I asked his life's purpose.  Eddie went on to explain instead, "I'm an artist. I challenge myself to do different things, or to craft in a different way."

I've observed a beautiful irony in my friends and acquaintances who identify as being nihilists.  I've met a few people who are operating under the thought or philosophy that life is purpose-less, but those who I've met who live this operating system, are living some of the most purposeful, meaningful, beautiful lives of anyone I know.  They live lives filled with kindness, generosity, and determination.  Most of the nihilists I've met have been artists/creatives, born with gifts and talent that even the most dedicated person can never nurture from themselves.  They have been visionaries, and more importantly, they accomplish as much as they dream.

To me, it feels like someone who identifies with nihilism may feel like there isn't really a purpose to life, or in life, but the funny thing is, they're often living such a beautiful and purposeful life that it practically contradicts this philosophy.  It's as though their life's purpose is so hard-wired and so innate, they're not wandering aimlessly  (like some of us) in search of their purpose in life, or of life's purpose for them.  They are simply living it.

"My kindness," Eddie answered, when I asked something about himself which he would consider to be a success.   Eddie experienced a pretty traumatic situation just a few days prior to this in which he was caught in the crossfire of gang violence.  He was actually standing in the middle of gunfire as two gangs were shooting at each other.  Eddie is determined not to let this experience cloud his thoughts or feelings about people.  He's forgiving.  He will not allow himself to be led down a path and into the territory of discrimination or racism because of the violent acts of two small groups of people.  Eddie will not be hardened by this.  Instead, he is pretty much one of the most loving and accepting people I've met.

Thank you, Eddie.  You are amazing.

Here's a summary of the life's purposes and personal mission statements of the subjects from this week:

• To be as kind and loving as possible to the people around me, and to make the world a better place wherever I am.
• To make people laugh.
• Trying to help others and help the planet.
• I'm always trying to succeed.
• Eat, sleep, fuck, and to be happy and to help everyone else around me to succeed.
• Surfing.
• To live as genuinely as possible and to publish a book that resonates with people.
• I'm a nihilist.  I don't think there there is a purpose in life.

Thank you for reading along and thank you to every subject in this project.

365 More People Pictures - Week 44

Hello! So sorry for the pause.  I'm still taking a picture of a person every day and we're nearing the end of this second 365 Day streak.  The blog is a few weeks behind from real-time, but you can follow along daily on Instagram. My username is @missellanea.

Meet the subjects from week 44 of the 365 More People Pictures project.

Day 301 - Chris

This is Chris, my boss/employer.  As I typed the words "boss/employer," it made me smile thinking about all of the times we've been out as a group, either professionally or for fun, when Chris humbly introduced himself as our "co-worker."  He rarely mentions that he's the owner of a successful business which he started as a kid in his parent's basement and grew into one of the strongest in our entire industry.

"Being in love," Chris answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

When I asked Chris if he's recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness, he was hesitant to answer.  "More than I can say," Chris stalled.  I could tell he was retreating to his mind in search of just the right words to say without breaking any sort of confidence before he finally answered, "grand acts of kindness."

Chris' success has put him in a position to be able to help people, but it's his heart that compels him to do so.  The company donates generously to hundreds of local organizations and events.  Having lost both parents to cancer, Chris contributes to several of the many organizations dedicated to fighting cancer, or those which help patients, survivors and their families to cope with the avalanche brought by the diagnosis of cancer.  I only know of a tiny little fraction of the kindness he's extended to our work family, and what little I know, has been massive and life-changing for many people.

"To employ people," Chris answered, when I asked his life's purpose.  This answer was preceded by an explanation that his life's purpose is evolving and that his life is for his family and his family's security, but that everything relates.

After leaving Chris, I continued thinking about his answer.  I've always known Chris to be a big-picture guy, and those three small words, "to employ people," have a much greater significance. Chris' life purpose is built on the foundation to care and provide security for his own family, but it's also providing for the lives of hundreds of other people.  He doesn't just employ a single one of us.  He is, in a sense, employing our entire family.  His decisions are based not only on the 125+/- people who come in to work each day, but more like the 500, or so, people in the families of those of us who actually punch the clock.  Chris is more like the big-big-picture guy.  Again, part of the grand acts of kindness he performs every day.  When I consider the giant web, or ripple, of Chris' three small words and how their reach extends even beyond his company's employees and our families, and spreads into the lives of our thousands of customers and their families, the impact and significance becomes enormous.  And, in seeing that enormous impact, I can just imagine the enormous pressures he must feel as a result.

One single life.  Three small words.  Thousands of lives touched.

"Holding my family together, in spite of it being broken 2-times over," Chris answered, when I asked one thing about himself which he would consider to be a success.  Of all the achievements Chris could have listed, I realized this was truly his finest, and his most important.

For 20 years, Chris has been teaching me about business,  and I've absorbed his drive and determination to be the very best at what we do.  On this day, he reminded me why we do it.  We want to be the very best at what we do in order to provide for our families, and the families of our customers.  Big picture.  Big-big-picture.

Thank you, Chris.  I don't tell you enough.  The tears flow as I'm writing this because the words are sincere, thank you.  Thank you for everything you are, and everything you do.

Day 302 - Dan

This is Dan.   We met downtown, where he was on break from work.

"Sunshine," Dan said, is the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

When I asked Dan if he's recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness, he explained that his job is to be kind.  I gathered that Dan is a server or bartender.  He explained that he can tell when his customers are having a bad day and he makes it a point to be friendly, and basically, befriend them.  He wants people to leave there happier than they arrived.

"Living, life experiences, meeting people, and seeing nature," Dan answered, when I asked his life's purpose.

Something about himself which Dan considers to be a success is that he's been able to meet all of his personal responsibilities and own needs since a young age. Dan has been on his own since high school

Thank you, Dan.

Day 303 - Cameron

This is Cameron.  The happiest thing happening in his life right now is that he has a new girlfriend.  I loved watching Cameron as he spoke about her with his friend.  I could tell from the reaction of both of them that she's a real keeper.  She sounded like a great girl, and I'm happy for Cameron that she's in his life and also happy that he recognizes such such a special girl.  It's been so cute and touching to see so many men in this project reveal their sensitive side.

Cameron's recent act of kindness is that he gives money and/or food to homeless people.

"To make art and music more available to the masses," Cameron answered, when I asked his life's purpose.

When I asked Cameron something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered, "that I continue to move up in the field I'm in."

Thank you, Cameron.

Day 304 - Forest

This is Forest. The very first time I saw Forest,  a few weeks prior to this, he was juggling outside my favorite little Hollywood District coffee shop, Nectar Cafe. (You've already met several of the Nectar team.) I just had to take his picture back then.  I didn't end up with what I was going for, but we talked about someday going out to shoot him juggling.  This day, as I was wandering around looking for the person of the day, I looked over and saw Forest doing hand stands!  Again, I just had to take his picture so I asked Forest if he would be in the project.  Juggling, handstands...I'm not sure what Forest is going to be up to the next time I see him. Stilt-walking?  Fire-eating?

The happiest thing happening in Forest's life right now is being in Portland.

"To live until I die," Forest answered, is his life's purpose.  Forest explained that every day, we should consider ourself as dead, or dying, and then live life like that.  The way he explained it wasn't at all morbid or depressing, but rather freeing and inspiring.  Imagine all that you would do, everything you would say, and all that you would experience if it were your last day.  Imagine all the worries you would dismiss and not waste a single moment fretting over, if you knew it didn't really matter.  Imagine all the love you would share, and receive.

I enjoyed listening to Forest and asked if in addition to his life's purpose, if he also has a personal mission statement.  Forest answered, "to be as aware of my life as possible."  Forest explained he wasted a lot of time not really being aware of himself, his surroundings or the people around him.  He's fully present now, and I guess living like you're dying is one way of instantly grounding yourself in the current moment.  After talking with Forest, I really wouldn't be surprised if he were stilt-walking or fire-eating the next time I bump into him. That's Forest, living.

"Procreation," Forest answered, when I asked something about himself which he would consider to be a success.  "I have children who are now good people."  Forest told me a story about how his son's teacher once asked how they raised such a great student and person. The teacher wasn't just being flattering. They really wanted to know the parental secret.   Forest's son grew up in a home without a television, and no real living-room furniture.  They didn't have a couch on which to potato.  Instead, Forest filled the home with mats and gym equipment, books and games and everything a kid could ever want. (Except for T.V. and a couch.)   The result was a child with an active body and and active mind, and now he's an adult with the same.  I wished out loud that I could force myself to make this drastic and unconventional lifestyle change and get rid of both the TV and the couch.    I laughed and told Forest that my husband wouldn't go for it, even though it would help us to accomplish so much in life.  I loved Forest's answer.  "Don't ask him, just do it."  I'm going to compromise and will plan on just being able to at least cancel the cable someday. (But it might have to be done Forest's way - not asking husband for permission, just doing it.)

Thank you, Forest.  Thank you for your energy.

Day 305 - Cameron

This is Cameron.  Two Cameron's in one week and separated by just one Forest!  What are the odds?

"I'm surrounded by an abundance of things that cause joy.  I'm so lucky to have an abundance of friends and a supportive community, and I'm figuring out how to express love through my entire being," Cameron answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Cameron's recent act of kindness is that he opened up his home to shelter a stranger who was escaping a bad situation.  Cameron has also been on the receiving end of kindness in the process of founding a non-profit organization.  Most recently, 2 classes at PSU helped him prepare a business plan for the organization.  You can learn more about Cameron's work by checking out:  The Oregon Center for Human Rights, and Know Your City.

Cameron's life's purpose is the same as the mission of the Oregon Center for Human Rights, the foundation he's starting: "to shift the narrative about human rights in Oregon, by sharing stories of humanity."

When I asked Cameron something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered, "resiliency."  Cameron forgives and loves again, adding, "...and I smile through it all."

It was such a pleasure meeting you, Cameron.  Thank you for being in the project, and for being so kind.  Wishing you luck and success to you and your organization.

Day 306 - Deirdre

This is Deirdre.  She was peddling down the street when we met.

The happiest thing happening in her life right now is that she built a tiny home and is now living in a stable place. She's enjoying her garden, her home, coziness, and privacy.

Deirdre's recent act of kindness is that she made root beer floats for her hard-working co-workers!

"To love and figure out how to be kind, despite impatience," Deirdre answered, when I asked her life's purpose.  I could relate to Deirdre and confessed to her I have the same objective, explaining that I've noticed over the past few years that my well of patience is no longer as deep as when I was younger.  This project, in addition to learning photography, has been one of the ways in which I'm seeking to reclaim and expand the patience I once had, which seems to have been damaged or altered by recent years.

"To have created a home for myself," Deirdre answered, when I asked something about herself which she would consider to be a success. Having had zero experience in construction, Deirdre built her home all by herself, with the exception of electrical and pumping, which she needed help with in order to be properly up to code.  A tiny house. A huge accomplishment.

Thank you, Deirdre.

Day 307 - Horse

This is Horse. We met near Saturday market, where he was singing and drumming with a group of Natives.  As I was about to leave the market, I could hear a faint heartbeat in the distance.  I couldn't force myself to leave.  I was drawn to the pulse and had to find where it was coming from.  I wandered till I found the drum circle and stayed there for a while, just soaking in the sounds and the energy of the culture I left when I moved away from home.  For a few moments, I was home.

"Living in my spiritual world," Horse answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Through his 12-step work, Horse has been on both the receiving and giving end of kindness.

"To teach people the right way," Horse answered, is his life's purpose.

When I asked Horse something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered, "living life good, and staying clean and sober so I can sing for those who can't, and for the Elders and Grandfathers above."

Thank you, Horse.  Stay strong and on the path.

Here's the summary of personal mission statements and the life's purposes of the subjects from this week:

• To employ people.
• Living, life experiences, meeting people, and seeing nature.
• To make art and music more available to the masses.
• To live until I die.
• To be as aware of my life as possible.
• To shift the narrative about human rights in Oregon, by sharing stories of humanity.
• To love and figure out how to be kind, despite impatience.
• To teach people the right way.

Thank you!

365 More People Pictures - Week 43

Hello! This is the review of the subjects from week 43 of the 365 More People Pictures project. The blog is a few weeks behind realtime, but if you'd like to follow along daily, my Instagram username is @missellanea.

Day 294 - Jason

This is Jason. We met downtown at the first Instameet hosted at Compound by @portland and Portland Gear.

This was a pretty awesome meet-up and I can't wait for the next event! In attendance were around 200 photographers of all ages, all skill levels, and shooting with everything from their camera phones to set-ups that cost more than my car.

The Unipiper made an appearance and he filmed all of us for a promo video for the Goonies 30th Anniversary Celebration in Astoria. I loved that the Unipiper was filming us, as we where shooting him, filming us!  Search the hashtag #PDXMeet and check out all the photos and videos.

Can you imagine a group of 200 touristy-looking people on a photowalk of downtown Portland? It was the best! I went not knowing anyone but the host, and left there having met dozens of people who I can't wait to see again soon. Jason is one of those people. I love his passion for photography and want to surround myself with others who are equally passionate about photography. Being around other obsessed people helps fuel the fire for your own passions/obsessions.

"Focusing on my photography," Jason answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Jason's recent act of kindness is that he carries around bottled water in his work truck to give to homeless people.

"To provide for my kids," Jason answered, when I asked his life's purpose.

When I asked Jason something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered, " I have a strong work ethic."

Thank you, Jason!  Looking forward to hanging out with you again some day!

Day 295 - Rob

This is Rob. He and his son were impossible to miss as they were happily walking down the sidewalk, eating ice-cream on a warm evening and making memories together.

The happiest thing happening in Rob's life right now are his kids.

When I asked Rob if he's recently performed an act of kindness, he explained that he's in AA and he's of service to others in the program. He's able to give back what he's received in the program.

"To try to leave the world better, for me having existed," Rob answered, when I asked his life's purpose.

When I asked Rob something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered, "trying to be open minded at all times."

Thank you, Rob. The world is already a better place for you having existed, and keep up your excellent work and service.

Day 296 - Dessa

This is Dessa. The happiest thing happening in her life right now is dancing Tango. She was actually in a bit of a hurry when we met, as she was on her way to dance class.

When I asked if Dessa had recently performed an act of kindness or if she's on the receiving end of an act of kindness, she explained that she recently moved into a new place. Before moving, she found herself needing help and running out of options, she made a post on Facebook asking if anyone could help her move. She was so surprised and touched when a guy she hasn't seen since 8th grade, responded to her post that he could help her move. What a sweet friend!

"To bring healing to myself and others," Dessa answered, when I asked her life's purpose.

When I asked Dessa something about herself which she would consider to be a success, she first answered that it was Grad School. She thought for a moment and added, "maintaining a relationship with my father during a difficult time."

Thank you, Dessa.

Day 297 - Nathan

This is Nathan. He was waiting for someone on the street when we met. "Meditation," Nathan answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now. Nathan added that the process of self examination or self discovery isn't always a happy one, but the outcome is.

You know how you get good vibes from certain people? Well, Nathan gives off good vibes, but more than that, he gives off a heavy vibe too. Heavy in a good way...like, it's time to get to work, or to get serious.

When I asked Nathan if he's recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness, Nathan explained that it happens all the time in the simple act of receiving a smile, acknowledgment or eye-contact from a stranger or in our everyday interactions with others. Nathan added that simply acknowledging people, or giving them a smile, is the scariest and bravest thing we can do, but it's also the kindest. It doesn't matter who the person is, it is amazing what we can do when we simply acknowledge another human being with a kind smile.

"Helping others help themselves," Nathan answered, when I asked his life's purpose. As if on cue, Nathan's client arrived and confirmed Nathan is actually living his life's purpose. Nathan is a personal trainer and his client explained that she has severe Scoliosis and could barely even move when she first started working with Nathan. With her hard work and determination, and Nathan's guidance, she's made so much progress that she just attended a yoga conference in Costa Rica!

When I asked Nathan something about himself which he would consider to be a success, his answer was completely aligned with his life's purpose. Nathan said, "helping people see the best in themselves."

Thank you for being you, Nathan.

Day 298 - Paul

This is Paul. We met in a crosswalk.

When I asked Paul the happiest thing happening in his life right now, I could tell by the look on his face that I had just caught him at a weird time. He didn't even have to answer. I've learned to recognize the I-can't-believe-you're-asking-me-this-question-when-things-are-so-messed-up look" in someone's eyes.

Paul explained that he's currently going through a separation. I empathize with Paul and this sad and turbulent time for him, but Paul managed to find a positive spin on his current circumstances. "Figuring out what's next," Paul answered, is the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

It's now happened a few times that I've met someone and asked them the "happiness" question at the most inopportune time imaginable. But, maybe my timing hasn't been completely off. It is my hope that if someone I've met in this project has been momentarily consumed by thoughts or worry, maybe our interaction presented them with enough pause that they've been able to shift their thinking enough to change their perception about whatever was troubling them. This question has been been deliberate, and if the question has helped even just one person feel a little better, or at least provide little relief from some stress that was bothering them, then this entire project has been worth the effort.

"I helped someone at work who was falling to pieces, and in return, they've helped me," Paul said, when I asked if he's recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness.

When I asked Paul his life's purpose, he said, "to figure that out."

"Patience," Paul answered, when I asked something about himself which he would consider to be a success.

Wishing you the best, Paul.

Day 299 - Layal

This is Layal. We met at Waterfront park.

When I asked Layal the happiest thing happening in her life right now, she answered that it was seeing her brother for the first time in 7 years.  Layal left it at that, but I was curious if she traveled to visit him, or if he came to visit her.  This opened the door for her to explain that she's from Yemen and only expected to come to Portland to visit her brother for just a short visit.

Since her arrival here in Portland, war has destroyed her city, the airport, and her family's home.   Not only is she unable to fly back home because there is no longer an airport, but if she could make the flight back, she has no home to which she can return!

Layal's parents are still there but they're on the move every day, trying to escape air strikes.  Her heart is aching for her country and her family, and she feels conflicted not knowing if it's alright to feel joy here where she's safe with her brother and experiencing our beautiful city. Right now, she's both grieving for her country and her family, but also planning to start a new life here.

Although Layal is sad and grieving, she's also filled with so much kindness and even happiness.

When I asked Layal if she had recently performed an act of kindness, or if she was on the receiving end of an act of kindness, she said she couldn't think of anything because she's just arrived here and really hasn't interacted with a lot of other people. Layal showed me great kindness in taking the time to let me take her picture and sharing a little of her story with me. (with us.)

"To be a good lawyer," Layal answered, when I asked her life's purpose. Layal is trying to make the best of her situation, and is now looking into her options for Law School here in the U.S.

"I speak my mind, and stand up for others," Layal answered, when I asked something about herself which she would consider to be a success. Layal's life and her experiences, as traumatic and tragic as they are, will give her insight and drive that others could never really create from nothing. Layal's pain will lead her to help others.

Thank you, Layal. Praying for you, your family and your Country.

Day 300 - Kelsey and Ashley

This is Kelsey (left) and Ashley (right.) We met in a hotel in downtown, Portland. They were part of the fleet in town for the Portland Rose Festival.

I was staying in the hotel downtown in order to be close to a Rose Festival event I was working for the weekend. I was so exhausted after working all day, I returned to my room and fell asleep. I accidentally slept for about 4 hours and when I woke up at close to 10:30 pm, I was in a panic when I realized I still needed to find a subject for the day. I quickly pulled myself together and headed out to go in search of a subject. The beauty of staying in a busy downtown hotel is that I didn't even have to go any farther than the elevator before meeting Kelsey, and when we arrived down in the lobby, Ashley was there waiting for her.  I got lucky with two great subjects!  Wow! If only it were always this easy to find subjects!

"Being in the Navy and my family supporting me, Kelsey said, is the happiest thing happening in her life right now.

I asked Ashley if she had recently performed an act of kindness or if she's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness. Ashley explained that she secretly gifted someone a coffee at B Street Coffee, from "Navy Girl."

"To make people's lives better...I want to do something to impact people's lives for the better," Kelsey answered, when I asked her life's purpose.

"When I'm scared about something, I'm really good at forcing myself to do it and face those fears," Ashley said, when I asked her something about herself which she would consider to be a success.

After I finished taking Ashley and Kelsey's picture and returned to my room, I was struck with the thought that I had just met three very strong women in the past two days. I had met a young woman whose home has been destroyed by war, but is persevering and still finding reasons to smile and be happy, and then the following day, I met two young women in the U.S. Navy.  I'm inspired by the strength and determination of these three young women.

I consider myself extremely lucky to live in a Country in which I have the freedom to approach these women, learn a little about their lives and their story, and then share it with you. I was also struck with the thought that had I met Layal, Ashley and Kelsey on the same day, the four of us would have the freedom that we could have all sat down together in the park, coffee in hand, and enjoyed each others company as we talked and dreamed about our futures. Had the four of us met on the same time and under the right circumstances, we could have become friends.

Here's the summary of the life's purposes of the subjects from this week:

• To provide for my kids.
• To try to leave the world a better, for me having existed.
• To bring healing to myself and others.
• Helping others help themselves.
• To figure that out.
• To be a good lawyer. I speak my mind, and stand up for others.
• To make people's lives better...I want to do something to impact people's lives for the better.

Thank you!

365 More People Pictures - Week 38

Hello! Thank you for checking out week 38 of the 365 More People Pictures Project.  This is my second 365 Day Project in which I'm taking a picture of a person, every single day, for an entire year.  I completed my first 365 Day Project last year and I just couldn't stop.  Without missing a day, I continued on to year two.  I should mention, I'm not a photographer.  Until getting my first DSLR just a few weeks before starting the first 365 Day project, I had never taken any classes and I didn't even know how to operate my camera.  There's just so much to learn when it comes to photography, and I haven't even scratched the surface.

I'm not sure what the future holds after this current streak is finished. I've considered going for 1000 straight days.  1000 days seems impossible - but really, it would only be another 270 days after this project.

These pictures are taken fresh daily. I don't stockpile images. The majority of the subjects in this project are strangers and usually we only get to spend a few moments together.  Also included are a few family, friends and co-workers.

I post each daily picture to Instagram.  The blog is currently behind a couple weeks from real-time, but if you'd like to follow along daily, my Instagram username is @missellanea.

Day 259 - Adrian

This is Adrian.  We met on the street, and he was in a bit of a hurry.

"I just got a job," Adrian answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Adrian's recent act of kindness is that he had just bought a soda for a homeless person at the gas station.

"That's too hard, I'm too young," Adrian replied, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or a life's purpose.

When I asked Adrian something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered that it was his success in school, and his job.

Thanks, Adrian.

Day 260 - Joe

This is Joe.  We met at Starbucks, where I pretty much just invited myself to sit down at his table.  Have you noticed that I tend to do this often?  Wow!  I never imagined I'd live a life where it was pretty common to walk up to a stranger and then sit down to have coffee with them.   This project has been so amazing and I can't even imagine going back to living an isolated life where I spent my time lost in my own thoughts.

"My family is healthy and we're spending a lot of time together...good family time," Joe answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

When I asked Joe if he's recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness, he explained that he received community-wide support in coping with a situation at the organization he runs.   The community stepped up and gave support during a very difficult time.

When I asked Joe his life's purpose, he answered, "to help people grow."  Joe laughed and explained that actually, "I push. I push people to grow."  I'm glad for people like Joe.  Some of us are very good at accepting help from others, and some of us need people like Joe around who push us to grow when we think we're unable to.

"My drive," Joe answered, when I asked something about himself which he would consider to be a success.  "I like the process of getting things done," he added.

Joe and I visited for a while longer while we enjoyed a perfect spring evening on the Starbucks patio.  I wish everyone could experience what I've been experiencing with this project.  It feels like every day I get to meet a new friend, and every day I get to feel a little more connected with this big city of ours.  If the subjects I meet each day feel even a fraction of what I feel each day, then I will feel like this mattered.

Thank you, Joe.  Keep up the excellent work in all that you do.

Day 261 - Chrissy Boo Bad

This is Chrissy Boo Bad.  We only had time for one question before CBB's bus arrived.

The happiest thing happening in Chrissy Boo Bad's life right now is, "spiritual enlightenment and personal development."

Thank you, CBB!

Day 262 - Lilly

This is Lilly.  The happiest thing happening in her life is that she had just spent two weeks in Mexico with her family.

When I asked Lilly if she had recently performed an act of kindness or if she had been on the receiving end of an act of kindness, she explained that the trip was actually an act of kindness because her parents paid the for the vacation. It was hard for her, but Lilly accepted their assistance and generosity.

"I just want to be happy...that's the goal at this point," Lilly answered, when I asked her life's purpose.

When I asked Lilly something about herself which she would consider to be a success, she said that she's successfully lived without a car for 4 years and counting.  She was on her bike when we met.  I admire the huge population of bike commuters in Portland.

Thank you, Lilly.  Wishing you happiness!

Day 263 - Sanjay

This is Sanjay.  The happiest thing happening in his life right now is that he and his wife just adopted/rescued a dog from Poland.  The rescue/adoption process was quite the ordeal, and I'm so happy for Sanjay and his new little family.

When I asked Sanjay if he's recently performed an act of kindness (other than rescuing the pup) or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness, he told me that he works for Mercy Corps.  Sanjay's entire life is spent helping others.  Sanjay had just returned from a work trip to Nepal just a day or two before the devastating earthquake.

"To live by my principles," Sanjay answered, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or life's purpose.

When I asked Sanjay something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered, "I've come a long way."  He meant that figuratively and literally, explaining that he came from a small village in India, "and having been through a lot, I can now influence and help others all across the world."

Thank you, Sanjay.  Thank you for being in the project and for all the good work you do personally, and with Mercy Corps.

Day 264 - Manny

This is Manny.

"I was sick, but I got better," Manny answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

"I always perform acts of kindness," Manny answered, when I asked if he had recently performed an act of kindness or if he had been on the receiving end of an act of kindness.  He jokingly added that he let me take his picture!  I love it when people realize this.  Some subjects have trouble remembering if they've performed an act of kindness and they actually start to stress about it, not even realizing that they're actually performing an act of kindness as we're speaking.  When you think about it, it's pretty remarkable for a person to allow a stranger to take their picture and "interview" them.  It is an act of kindness to open up and take a few moments out of their day to visit with a stranger.

"To make a difference in at least one person's life...and make that person's life a little better," Manny said, is his life's purpose.

When I asked Manny something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he said that he's a College Graduate.  He's currently looking for work, but he's confident he'll find a job.

Wishing you the best of luck, Manny!  Hoping you find the perfect job!

Day 265 - Thom

This is Thom.   He's one of the owners of the Hoodsport Coffee Co.   When we make the move to our little cabin in the woods, I'll be seeing a lot of Thom and Hoodsport Coffee Co.!

The happiest thing happening in Thom's life right now is the shop, and that he gets to work with his wife.

When I asked Thom if he had recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness, he said that he just purchased groceries for a woman at the grocery store who was unable to pay.  The woman and her children were in the check-out line ahead of him.   When she was unable to pay, Thom stepped in and paid for everything.  He didn't want the family to go without.

"To provide community here," Thom answered, when I asked his life's purpose.  Thom is definitely fulfilling his life's purpose.  Hoodspoort Coffee Co. is the most happening place in town and what little time I've spent there so far, I've been able to gather that it really is the pulse of the community.  In addition to Thom and his wife, every time we go there, we always end up visiting with locals or tourists passing through.  The first time I ever went there, I felt that sense of community.    Someday soon, we will be joining this little community.  I'm grateful for Thom and his wife and the Hoodsport Coffee Co. for more reasons than just their coffee and friendly service!  When the time comes to move and if I want to continue this project or something similar, this is the best place in town to meet people!

Thank you, Thom!  Thank you for being in the project and building community.

Here's a summary of the life's purpose or personal mission statements from this week's subjects:

• To help people grow.
• Spiritual enlightenment and personal development.
• I just want to be happy.
• To live by my principles.
• To make a difference in at least one person's life...and make that person's life a little better,
• To provide community here.

Thank you to every person in this project, and thank you again for following along!

365 More People Pictures - Week 34

Hello! Thank you for checking in on week 34 of the 365 More People Pictures project.  I'm sorry I've managed to fall behind in the blog posts. I've still continued to take a picture of a person, every single day.  It's been a crazy few weeks and catching up has been a challenge.   I'll catch us up soon!  In the meantime, if you'd like to follow along daily, my Instagram username is @missellanea.

Day 231 - Estrellalinda

This is Estrellalinda.  We met at the park.

"The success of my career," Estrellalinda answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in her life right now.  Estrellalinda is a chef at a local restaurant.

When I asked Estrellalinda if she's recently performed an act of kindness, she answered, "it's something I do on the daily."  The most recent act of kindness to come to mind was that she had paid a visit to an elderly friend who resides in the care facility where Estrellalinda once worked.  The woman just loved Estreallalinda's cooking, so  Estrellalinda brought her some treats, visited, and made plans to come back soon for another visit.

When I asked Estrellalinda if she had a personal mission statement, she answered, "don't fear, just live." Estrellalinda added that we have to take risks to find love and happiness.

"I'm starting to be a successful Mother," Estrellalinda answered, when I asked something about herself which she would consider to be a success.  I didn't know when I approached Estrellalinda, but she was keeping a watchful eye on her daughter who was playing on the playground just a little ways from where Estrellalinda was sitting.   Estrellalinda's daughter probably felt like she had a little bit of space and freedom to spread her wings, but I could see Estrellalinda watching her baby bird the entire time we were talking.

When we were finished with the picture and the questions, Estrellalinda pointed her daughter out to me and I asked if she was friends with the other little girl she was playing with.  "No, they just met," Estrellalinda explained.  I then remarked how amazing kids are at meeting new friends and wondered when we, adults, lost our ability to go meet a new friend on the playground.  Estrellalinda laughed  and pointed out how we had just successfully struck up a conversation, just like the kids on the playground.  We laughed and visited more.  Estrellalinda confided areas where she felt she wanted to improve on being a mother, and I confided that the thought of being a mother was just too big of a challenge for me, so I don't have kids.  I am always truly in awe of parents, and especially mothers.

Estrellalinda said that going to the park was her daughter's idea.  In the past, Estrellalinda would have probably passed on the park in favor of just taking care of all of life's other busy-work, but she now stops to take the time to have fun whenever they can.  Estrellalinda gave the credit to her daughter, saying, "she's teaching me how to be a good Mom."

Thank you, Estrellalinda!  Best wishes of happiness for you and your daughter.

Day 232 - Gabrielle

This is Gabrielle.  We met as we were crossing the street together.  Can you believe that Gabrielle doesn't actually like having her picture taken and she recently decided to get better about it.  I feel so lucky to have bumped into Gabrielle!  This is one of my favorite portraits. Gabrielle is a beautiful person, and somehow, we both made a good picture together.  It's just so funny that a young woman who doesn't like having her picture taken, and I, someone who can't even call themselves a photographer, managed to create a beautiful image, in spite of ourselves.  I love this picture and this fun little moment shared with such a lovely person.

"I'm starting a new chapter here," Gabrielle answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in her life right now.  Gabrielle recently moved to Portland and she's happy to be "digging roots" here.  She feels like she's becoming part of the community.

"I feel like every day the universe gives me kindness," Gabrielle answered, when I asked if she's recently performed an act of kindness or if she's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness.  Gabrielle added that she had given someone food the day before.

When I asked Gabrielle her life's purpose, she answered, "helping to empower people in the world, especially women."  Gabrielle works in alternate healing and she's able to help empower people through body work.  When people are well and feel good, they're empowered.

"My ability to fail," Gabrielle answered, when I asked her something about herself which she would consider to be a success.  Gabrielle explained that failures have provided her with the opportunity for growth. "I'm learning how to learn," Gabrielle added.   If she has a setback or failure, now she just picks herself back up, learns what she can from the failure, and moves on.  Such amazing wisdom from a young person.  It takes some of us several decades to view our failures as an opportunity for growth.

Very best wishes for you, Gabrielle. I hope we/Portland welcomes you and that you find your home here.

Day 233 - Nemo

This is Nemo. We met walking down the street.

"Painting," Nemo answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.  You can check out Nemo's work on his website or Instagram.  I couldn't stop looking!

When I asked Nemo if he's recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of kindness, he explained that he's been on the receiving end of kindness in the compliments he's received.

"Making things," Nemo answered, when I asked his life's purpose.

"Trying to make things," Nemo answered when I asked something about himself which he would consider to be a success.

Thank you, Nemo!  Keep making things!

Day 234 - Jonny

This is Jonny.  We met at the mall.

The happiest thing happening in his life right now is the birth of his baby sister.

"I try to pay it forward," Jonny answered, when I asked if he's recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness. Jonny is involved with the group, Tattoos Cure Cancer.

"To make the world a better place than when I came into it," Jonny said, is his life's purpose.

When I asked Jonny something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered that it was that he's a friendly person, even though people could look at him covered in tattoos and possibly judge him to be otherwise. "Don't judge a book by its cover," Jonny added.

Jonny was a sweetheart and it's been my experience, at least with my friends and acquaintances, the more ink one has, the bigger their heart.   I'm not sure if it's the same feeling everywhere in the country, but at least in Portland, it doesn't feel like there's even much of a stigma attached to being heavily tattooed anymore.

Thank you, Jonny!

Day 235 - James

This is James, a Portland Police Officer.  We met when he was on break at Starbucks.

The happiest thing happening in his life right now is that his daughter is getting married in New York.  Although he was so happy for his Daughter and her wedding, he was a little nervous about the trip to the big city!

James' most recent act of kindness is that he helped a person change a flat tire on the freeway.  This is such a big fear of mine.  Whenever I see someone stalled on the side of the highway, I get so nervous for them.  Something "minor" like a flat tire, can quickly turn into a tragedy.  Not only was James' assistance an act of kindness, but it's pretty brave too.

"Go out and do your job every day, even if you don't feel like you're making a difference," James answered, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement.

When I asked James something he does that helps to spread a little ripple of kindness, James said that lately he's been letting more people go with a warning instead of giving them a ticket!  Yay!   He added that some people need to get tickets, but when he can, he's just been giving warnings.

"My everyday life is pretty good...good wife, good kids," James said, when I asked something about himself which he would consider to be a success.

Thank you, James!

Day 238 - Meghan

This is Meghan.  We met just walking down the street.

The happiest thing happening in her life is that she had friends in town, visiting from Boston.

Meghan was recently on the receiving end of an act of kindness when someone gave up their seat on the bus so that Meghan, who had a lot of bags, could sit down.

"To help people and help them actualize their potential," Meghan answered, when I asked her life's purpose.  Meghan does energy work.

When I asked Meghan something about herself which she would consider to be a success, she answered, "having the bravery to move across country."  Meghan and her sister moved from Boston, not knowing anyone but each other.  I thought it took courage when I moved just 235 miles from home, so I've always admired people who've had the courage to completely uproot themselves and re-plant themselves on the other side of the country.

Thank you, Meghan!  Good luck in Portland!

Day 237 - Mike

This is Mike.  We met downtown.

"I'm healthy and my wife and I are happy," Mike answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Mike's recent act of kindness is that he helped his friends move.

When I asked Mike his life's purpose, he answered on behalf of he and his wife, "our goal is not to do anything bad while we're here on earth, and to travel, learn and explore as much as possible."  One thing that I noticed in talking with Mike, even for just a few moments, is that even though he wasn't with his wife at the moment, he answered several questions using "we" and "our."  I loved seeing the true partnership he shares with his wife, even when she's not in his presence.  They're truly one unit.

"I've managed to make and maintain a lot of great friendships," Mike answered, when I asked something about himself which he considers to be a success.  He still has friends from childhood.

Thank you, Mike.

Here's the summary of personal mission statements and life's purpose from this week's subjects:

• Don't fear, just live.
• Helping to empower people in the world, especially women."
• Making things.
• To make the world a better place than when I came into it.
• Go out and do your job every day, even if you don't feel like you're making a difference.
• To help people and help them actualize their potential.
• Our goal is not to do anything bad while we're here on earth, and to travel, learn and explore as much as possible.

Thank you for following along!

365 More People Pictures - Week 33

Hello! Thank you for stopping by to meet the people from week 33!

Day 224 - Oliver & Jaka

This is Oliver and Jaka.  We met at the bus stop.

I've found it best to split up the questions when a group or couple is the photo of the day.  You'll notice that I still really shy away from couples and groups.   Before starting this project, I didn't pause to think about shooting a quick little snap of a group or couple. It was fun and you just want to capture the moment.  And really, it's easy to take a cute picture of a couple or group with a camera phone or point & shoot.  When you're first learning a DSLR, sometimes you'll want to throw up your hands, shouting,  "I give up! My iPhone is easier!"

One thing I learned quickly as I started to dive into educating myself about photography and when I got my first DSLR, is that it's actually very easy to take a bad picture or ruin a picture of a group or couple.  As you begin to learn more about composition, things that never used to bother you, become nagging challenges to overcome.  Little things such as differences in height or lop-sided gaps or negative spaces between people now jump out at me and I get bummed when I don't catch them during the shot.  It sticks out so much now, it can prevent me from enjoying a photo.  Now, I can't just simply shoot a quick little photo of my girlfriends and be happy about it.  Now, I look at the picture and see all of these things I should have done differently.  Of course it happens with single portraits as well, but with couples or groups,  the challenges are multiplied and for that reason, I've been a bit intimidated by couples and groups.  The only way to improve is with practice, so I'm forcing myself to rise to the challenge.  Plus, it's always great talking with a group of people!

When I asked Oliver the happiest thing happening in his life right now, he looked over at Jaka with adoration in his eyes and simply answered, "Jaka."  Awwwww.

When I asked Jaka if she recently performed an act of kindness or if she's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness, she paused and then answered, "I think....you."  Yes! She was so right! I love it when people catch that they're in the middle of performing an act of kindness simply by taking the time to talk to me, a complete stranger, and allowing me to take their picture and share a little of their lives here with you.

I asked Oliver his life's purpose and he answered, "to write a film that will change at least one person's life."  It sounds like Oliver has been quite prolific and he's created several films.  The next step, which is even harder than actually birthing an idea and giving it life, is then figuring out how to share it with the world.  I wished Oliver good luck, and can't wait till we can all see one of his films!

When I asked Jaka something about herself which she would consider to be a success, she answered, "having an attitude of gratitude, and I feel that we're all equal."

Oliver and Jaka were such a sweet and loving couple and I'm so glad I set aside my fear of couples/groups and allowed myself to meet them!

Wishing you both love and success!

Thank you.

Day 225 - Deontae

This is Deontae.  We also met at the bus stop.

I'm running a bit behind, but when I asked Deontae the happiest thing happening in his life right now, he answered that he was happy he would find out the following Wednesday, if he got the job for which he had been hoping.   Deontae was a great guy, and I hope he got the job.  Maybe I'll bump into him again and find out the good news!

I asked Deontae if he's recently performed an act of kindness and he answered that he gives money to homeless people. He explained that he's been there before and knows what a difference a few dollars can make.

When I asked Deontae his life's purpose, he answered, "to get married, have a family, move overseas, and pursue a career in architecture."   Deonatae's ambitions are both grand and simple at the same time.

I asked Deontae something about himself which he would consider to be a success and when he answered, his entire face lit up.  "Being happy-spirited...it's gotten me far in life," Deontae beamed. I loved witnessing his happy spirit and I just knew that if he shined like that in his interview, the new job is his!

Wishing you great luck, Deontae!

Day 226 - Aaron

This is Aaron.  We met on the street.

The happiest thing happening in Aaron's life right now is his home, and building a garden with his partner.

When I asked Aaron if he's recently performed an act of kindness, he explained that in general, he's a friendly and nice person.  Although you can't tell in the picture, Aaron has really long hair, and just as he was answering this question, another "fellow long-hair" walked by and made a comment and gestured to their matching long locks.  Aaron complimented the man on his hair and I cracked up watching the instant connection the two formed.

"To be of service to others," Aaron answered, when I asked his life's purpose.  Aaron does this by bringing his Midwest hospitality to the Northwest and sharing his friendly disposition.  He really is a friendly guy.  When I approached Aaron, it dawned on me that once again, my memory card was at home in my laptop.  I usually always carry spares but I had been completely off-routine for several days and working out of three different camera bags. (which is just asking for trouble.)  Aaron was so cool and easy-going.  He explained he had time to kill before his movie started and would wait if I wanted to run to buy a new memory card at the Rite Aid across the street.  His chill demeanor helped me to keep chill too.  I walked back to my car to get my wallet and in the process of doing so, I remembered I DID bring spare cards!!  Hanging out with Aaron was just like hanging out with a friend who goes with the flow until things sort themselves out.  I was glad to have met Aaron.

"I don't suck at life," Aaron answered, when I asked something about himself which he would consider to be a success.

Thank you, Aaron. Thank you for being so friendly.

Day 227 - Lou

This is my friend, Lou.  Yes, you've seen him before in last year's project.

I met with Lou, and my friend Debbie, and by time we finished with what we were doing, it was way too late to go out in search of a subject.  Lou was nice enough to make his second appearance in the project.  Plus, I'm really glad he did, because now I can share some of his band's pictures too!

I asked Lou the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he answered, "a new venture!"  I'll share more about that in the future.

When I asked Lou if he's recently performed an act of kindness, at first he couldn't think of an answer and then it finally hit him - he and Debbie are responsible for our whole "Project Brown Bag" movement, in which we give out brown lunch bags filled with snacks to homeless people we see on street corners.  Were it not for Debbie and Lou, it would be really easy to slip out of the habit of carrying "brown bags" in our car.  (Sometimes weeks can go by before I refill my stock, but Debbie and Lou always send us away with more brown bags to hand out.

"When you leave the world, leave it a better place," Lou answered, when I asked his life's purpose.

"My leadership abilities," Lou answered, when I asked something about himself which he considers to be a success.

Lou just formed a new band, "Vasoline."  They do primarily Stone Temple Pilots covers.  Lou has been playing with his former band for several years.  It was mainly a bunch of guys who got together for fun.  I was bummed to hear they were moving on, but happy to hear Lou was starting a new band and he was going to be the lead singer!  Lou sang with his old band every once in a while, and he was good, but I didn't know what to expect with his new band.

They had their first show just a couple weeks ago and I was completely blown away!  I was so happy and impressed with the band, and especially Lou!  I had no idea that he had a total rock star hidden underneath his laid back, low stress, soft-spoken demeanor.  He killed it!  They all did!  It was so awesome!  I got pretty wrapped up in taking photographs and the lighting, or lack there of, was a huge challenge so sometimes I was pretty engrossed in my camera.  Later, on my way home,  I got goose bumps just thinking about how great they did. The sound was excellent and you would never have guessed this was their first show!

I was so proud of Lou and his new band, and can't wait to see & hear 'em again!

Day 228 - Courtney

This is Courtney.  We met at Starbucks.

I love this picture!  When we attempted a "serious" picture, both Courtney and I cracked up and couldn't stop laughing and smiling.  This was one of the in-between pictures and I just love it!  Some of my very favorite photos are the "in-betweens" I've caught when I've just kept shooting in-between "real" photos.   Knowing this, I now know to keep shooting the "in-betweens" and I can just "feel" when an "in-between" shot is really going to be the shot I was looking for.

Recently, I tried to shoot a large family portrait and even deliberately set up an "in-between" shot by staging a fake posed shot, followed by a pause before the next "posed" or deliberate shot.  During the in-between, if you can manage to say something funny or get people to do something silly, or ridiculous, the in-between will likely become the money shot.  It wasn't working for my large group photo, probably because I tried too hard.  With Courtney, we were genuinely having a fun time and I was lucky enough to capture it.  She's a beautiful girl, and I was just happy to spend a brief moment, on a warm sunny patio, talking to a complete stranger who felt more like talking with a friend.

"My daughter," Courtney answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in her life right now.

When I asked Courtney if she's recently performed an act of kindness or if she's been on the receiving end of kindness, she gave me a what-a-coincidence-look and held up the book she had been reading.  Courtney is going to school and has hopes of becoming an art therapist. Kindness will be her profession.  On the receiving end, she recently received help completing all of the necessary paperwork for her to be able to return to school.

"Letting go of resentments and accepting that we are all one,  to be the best mother and person that I can possibly be, and to leave a positive imprint," Courtney answered, when I asked her life's purpose.

When I asked Courtney something about herself which she considers to be a success, Courtney answered, "I think I give good advice, and I'm a loyal friend."

Thank you, Courtney!  Wishing you the best of luck and success in school and with your daughter!

Day 229 - Scott

This is Scott.  We met walking down the street.  Scott was in town, from Michigan, for a Martial Arts convention.  This is a deliberatly serious-looking picture, but when I stopped him, I could immediately tell that he was pretty much a teddy bear.  Scott was in a hurry to find the studio hosting the event, but was nice enough to stop and give me the time to take his picture.

"Being a Dad," Scott answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

When I asked Scott if he's recently performed an act of kindness, he said that he gave money to a homeless person, and also that he bought his kids presents to bring back home to them.

"Be a good dad, be a good person," Scott answered, when I asked his life's purpose.

When I asked Scott something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered that he recently got and accepted a job offer to teach full time.  "Teaching is what I'm best at," Scott added.

Thank you, Scott!  Good luck!

Day 230 - John 

This is John.  We met on the sidewalk. I think he had just gotten off work.

The happiest thing happening in John's life right now is that he's met a lot of new friends at WSU.

When I asked John if he's recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of kindness, John explained that he works at Starbucks and he feels like serving coffee is one way in which he's also able to serve the community.   John gives kindness in his friendly service and he feels like he's the recipient of kindness on a daily basis.  John explained that some of his customers are now more like friends.

"To bring laughter into the world," John answered, when I asked his personal mission statement.  John loves to make people laugh because it gives them an outlet to express a side of themselves that they suppress.

One thing about himself which John considers to be a success, is "being diligent with college."  John explained he was the first in his family to graduate from High School and go onto College!  His family must be so proud!

Thank you, John!  Good luck!

Here's the summary of the personal mission statements and life's purposes of the subjects from this week.

• To write a film that will change at least one person's life.
• To get married, have a family, move overseas, and pursue a career in architecture.
• To be of service to others.
• When you leave the world, leave it a better place.
• Letting go of resentments and accepting that we are all one, to be the best mother and person that I can possibly be, and to leave a positive imprint.
• Be a good dad, be a good person.
• To bring laughter into the world.

Thank you to every subject in this project!  Thank you for sharing yourself with us.  Please remember, if you'd like a copy of your photo, please drop me a message and I would love to email it to you!

And thank you for following along!

Have a great week!

365 More People Pictures - Week 32

Hello! Thanks for stopping by to check out week 32 of the 365 More People Pictures Project.  If you'd like to follow along daily, my Instagram username is @missellanea.

I'm currently a week behind in the blog post, but I'll catch us up soon!  I post the daily pictures on Instagram.

Day 217 - Richard

This is Richard.

"Everything! I'm pretty happy with everything. I'm content," Richard answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Richard's recent act of kindness is that he presented a report in his Sociology Class on preparing a budget for a single parent with M.S., who is raising three children. Richard's experience working with the family taught him to live in gratitude and thankfulness.

"You are condemned by the way you condemn others," Richard answered, when I asked if he has a personal mission statement.

One thing about himself which Richard considers to be a success is that he's extroverted.  Because of this trait, he feels he's met lots of friends and people in the community. Richard feels he's had opportunities he wouldn't have otherwise had, were he not an extrovert.

Thank  you, Richard.

Day 218 - Jack

This is Jack. We met at Starbucks. I didn't realize at the time, but Jack was studying and he still allowed me to sit down with him and interrupt his studies to take a picture and ask him a few questions.

The happiest thing happening in Jack's life right now is that he's a new Uncle!

Jack's recent act of kindness is that he bought someone a meal.

"To help people heal and live better in their day-to-day lives," Jack answered, when I asked his life's purpose.  Jack is currently in medical school.

"Being in school is a success," Jack answered, when I asked him something about himself which he would consider to be a success.  Jack also sees patients as a student so maintaining his studies, attending class and seeing patients keeps him busy and he feels it's a success even having made it this far.

Wishing you lots of luck, Jack!

Thank you!

Day 219 - Luke

This is Luke. We met at the bus stop.

"My wife," Luke answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Luke was having trouble thinking of an answer when I asked if he's recently performed an act of kindness. I reminded him that he took the time to allow me, a complete stranger, to take his picture and ask him a few questions.

When I asked Luke his life's purpose, he answered, "to entertain people."  Luke is a musician - he plays bass and is a singer. He just moved here from Australia a few months ago, when he married his wife.  Their story is so cute! Luke met his wife, a girl from Oklahoma, at a show.  Luke said that she hated his band, but her dislike of his music wasn't enough to repel her from Luke. The two started dating and maintained a really, really, long distance relationship.  After visiting her in the U.S. a couple times, they decided to get married.  They both uprooted and re-planted themselves in Portland.  Luke is just settling in and isn't yet with a new band, but I hope we'll see more of him soon!

"My music," Luke answered, when I asked something about himself which he would consider to be a success.

Thank you, Luke! Wishing you and your wife lots of love and happiness here!

Day 220 - Dan

This is Dan.  We met on the street, near PSU.

"I think I'm starting to figure it out...life, myself, happiness and contentment," Dan answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

When I asked Dan if he's recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness, he answered, "Every day!"  Dan thinks it's the little things we do for one another which can have a huge influence on one another. Simple little things such as smiling at a person, or being friendly to strangers.  Dan feels it takes courage for people to put themselves out there and open up to another person and he's receptive to it when others talk to him.  I found this to be so true!  When I approached Dan to ask if I could take his picture, I didn't even have to explain the project before Dan agreed.  He instantly made me feel comfortable and happy I had stopped him. He's just one of those super friendly and outgoing types.  It was like I had the courage enough to approach him, so he responded with the courage to be warm, inviting and friendly!

Dan and I spent quite a while visiting.  At one point, Dan made a comment about how amazing it is for two people, complete strangers,  to end up in the same place at the same moment, and share in a great conversation and exchange energy with one another.  I had known that night I was going to meet someone extra special because I had gotten lost.  I had just worked a 12 hour day and still hadn't found a person yet.  My last opportunity to find a person would be if I stopped downtown before heading home for the night.  I lived downtown for a few years and know my way around, but things have changed so much, I ended up taking several wrong turns before getting to my secret little parking spot which is always open.  I was starting to get frustrated but then I reminded myself that I always meet someone particularly great when I end up having to go through several challenges to meet them.  Dan was that person. Although I will most likely never see him again, for a few minutes that evening, he lifted my spirits and I had hoped I was able to do the same for him.

"To allow myself to be the guide for others, whenever or wherever that situation may occur," Dan answered, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or life's purpose.  Dan actually constructed his mission statement on the spot, explaining that he's always had a sense that he was meant to be a guide.  As he explained this feeling to me, he was then able to articulate his personal mission statement.

When I asked Dan something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered, "that I haven't given up on myself."

Thank you, Dan.

Day 221 - John

This is John.  We met on the street.

"Life is pretty good," John answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

When I asked John if he has a personal mission statement or life's purpose, John said that he didn't really believe in a life's purpose.  John explained, "if there is a point, then do it to it's fullest. Live every moment like it's a work of art that you could do time and time again."  John's point was that we should find our passions, and we know it's a passion when we can do it over and over again.  We talked about photography as the example, and that now that I've discovered photography, it's something I could do, and want to do, every single day for the rest of my life.

Although John technically doesn't believe in a life's purpose, I like his thoughts on the pursuit of identifying that which makes us happy and ignites us from within, and then for us to continue to fuel that fire daily.

When I asked John something about himself which he would consider to be a success, John explained that some people live with so many regrets, but John feels like everything that has happened in his life and everything he's done, has created the person he is. "I Like who I've become.  I'm happy. That happiness is a success."

Thank you, John.

And then this happened:

I was tempted to give this its very own post, just so I could talk about it and my feelings and hopefully write it out of my system.  I've decided that I'll just tell you the Cliff's Notes version here.  A person attempted to car-jack me this day, Thursday, as I was on my way home.

It was still early after I met John, so I decided to stop off at a thrift store near my house and see if there were any treasures to be found. I left the store and was on my way home.  As I was driving down the street, I noticed an SUV stopped in the middle of the street and in such a way that it telegraphed to me that someone or something was about to dart out into the middle of the road.  We weren't at a crosswalk but I was thinking someone was going to run right out into traffic to get to the other side.  Seems like someone makes this bold/stupid move at least once a week, so I try to be hyper-aware.

I stopped where the SUV had stopped, expecting  someone to rush out in front of me to cross the street, and then we would all be on our way.  A person didn't run out in front of me as I had anticipated, but instead, someone came walking from around the SUV and toward the front of my car. Obviously drunk or high, I waited for them to make their way to the center median so I could then continue on about my way.  The person didn't go to the center median.  Instead, he came walking around the front of my car, saying something I couldn't make out, and then he walked right over to my driver side door.  The man reached for his pants like he was going to pull out a gun, opened my door, and told me, "get the fuck out!"  It was somehow moving in slow motion, yet all happening so fast!

Until that point, I had been feeling generally happy and in a great mood.  I think the fact that I headed into that situation feeling great, helped me to be calm.  Had this happened the minute I got out of work and while I was still totally amped up, stressed out and tense, the outcome could have been different.

I started to surrender my car to the man, thinking that's what I was supposed to do.  My mind was flashing to a collage of television news stories where reporters speaking of convenience store clerks who have been robbed, always add a little commentary saying that when in the position of being robbed, you're supposed to give the robber what they want and not fight.  So, I was doing what I thought I was supposed to do and began to surrender my car.

As I started to get out of my car, I had two competing thoughts at the same time.  I feared that if I looked at the guy wrong, or if I didn't move in a way in which was satisfactory to him,  he was going to shoot me anyway.  I had started to accept the fact that I was going to get shot and even calculated all of the spots on my body where I could get shot and still have a chance to live.  It was the only time in my life when I was actually glad to be carrying around more weight than I should.  I can remember making a mental assessment of all the fleshy spots on my body and thinking, I have lots of good places to get shot.  

At the same time that I was ready to relinquish my car and brace myself to be shot, I had this gnawing thought that my purse/camera bag was in the trunk and no matter how nicely I asked,  there was no way the car-jacker would allow me enough time to get in my trunk and get my camera before he drove off with my car.  The thought of him driving off with my brand new camera, pissed me off just enough to fight back.  HE WAS NOT GOING TO GET MY BRAND NEW CAMERA!  NO WAY!  I then realized that I didn't just have to take this.  I still had options.

I slammed my car door as much as I could. He was all up in my business, so I couldn't slam it shut completely, but I slammed it hard enough to startle him. He was still holding onto my door and ran after me a few steps as I floored it to get the heck out of there!

I drove a little ways and then stopped to see if he was still there.  I wondered if he was hurt or ran over as I drove away.  When  I stopped, I realized  I was still way too close to him and he could come running after me and kill me.  I drove a little further away, and although there's no way he could have run that fast to get me, I was still terrified that I was too close and he would come kill me.  I drove down the road even further, and pulled into the coffee shop where I knew I would be safe. They helped me to calm down enough to call the police.

Everything else happened perfectly.  The police captured and arrested the man and I had to drive down the road with the Police to identify the person.

I didn't know it at the time, but between what the 911 operator and police told me, and then a little blurb in the news paper the next day, I was able to figure out that people had already called 911 before I was able to stop to call police. The car-jacker had already robbed two other businesses and attempted to carjack another car before coming to my car. He must have been in the process of attempting to car-jack the SUV when I happened to pull up along side them.  Although I hadn't seen a gun, the police told me that other witnesses said the man had a gun, and they were going to search the area to see if they could recover the weapon. I never did find out if he actually had one.  To my brain, it didn't matter. I had to act and react as though he had a weapon and that's the fear my mind and body were responding to.

I was pretty "calm" during the incident. Perhaps I was too calm.  It took the thought of losing my brand new camera to give me just the kick I needed to have the courage to fight. After it was over and I was home safe, I pretty much lost it.

My body and mind went through hell in the hours and days following.  I was afraid that I was going to be too afraid to continue the project.  I decided that if I felt scared, I would just ask my friends and co-workers to be subjects for the next few days, or as long as I took me to work through the fear.

Day 222 - Michael

This is Michael. We met at the store.  When I saw Michael, I could tell immediately that he was a sweet person and that everything was going to be fine.  I didn't want to let what happened the night before, prevent me from continuing this project. I love getting to meet people, and hope that together, we've been able to spread a little love and positivity.

"I really like my job," Michael answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

When I asked Michael if he's recently performed an act of kindness, he smiled and told me that he had just done so, when he let me take his picture. Yes!

"To be a good person and hopefully leave a positive impact on the world," Michael answered, when I asked his life's purpose.

When I asked Michael something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered, "all of my friends."

When we were finished, I told Michael how much it meant to me that he had let me take his picture. I told him briefly about the night before, and that he was the first person I approached since the incident, and it gave me back the confidence to continue with the project.

Thank you, Michael!

Day 223 - Josh

This is Josh.  We met at the park.

"Life is going well," Josh answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Josh's recent act of kindness is that he bought a plane ticket for someone so they could go visit friends they hadn't seen in a long time.

"To live," Josh answered, when I asked his life's purpose.

When I asked Josh something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he explained that he considers it to be a success that he's never done heroine, even though it was all around him.  So glad for Josh that he never fell into addiction.

Thank you,  Josh.

Here's the summary of the personal mission statements and life's purposes of the subjects from this week:

• You are condemned by the way you condemn others.
• To help people heal and live better in their day-to-day lives.
• To allow myself to be the guide for others, whenever or wherever that situation may occur.
• If there is a point, then do it to it's fullest. Live every moment like it's a work of art that you could do time and time again.
• To be a good person and hopefully leave a positive impact on the world.
• To live.

Thank you for following along!

365 More People Pictures - Week 29

Hello! This is week 29 of  the 365 More People Pictures Project.  I've fallen terribly behind in the blog posts but I'm still taking a picture of a person, every single day.  I post the pictures to instagram, so if you'd like to follow along daily, my username is @missellana.

Don't worry! Everything is going great. We've been traveling on the weekends as we're considering a big move to a little cabin in the woods. It's a huge change to consider and I don't know if I'm ready for that kind of life...you know, paradise!  The driving time to and from the cabin has been cutting into my writing time and I've fallen behind.

Day 196 - Jake

This is Jake.  We met at a rest stop along I5.   The happiest thing happening in Jake's life is being in the Northwest.

Aside from Jake's service to our Country, when I asked Jake if he's recently performed an act of kindness, he answered, "I do good stuff for people every day."

"To live life to the fullest and do whatever it is to make yourself happy," Jake answered, when I asked if he has a personal mission statement or life's purpose.

When I asked Jake something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered, "I'm successful at turning any situation into a positive."

Thank you, Jake! Thank you for your serving.

Day 197 - Matt

This is Matt.  He was waiting for a movie to start at Hollywood Theater.

The happiest thing happening in Matt's life right now is that he's buying a new home.

Matt's recent act of kindness is his volunteer work for Habitat for Humanity.

"Do the best you can, while empowering others to do the same," Matt answered, when I asked if he has a personal mission statement or life's purpose.

I asked Matt something about himself which he considers to be a success and he explained that it was his decision to leave his job in D.C. and move to Portland.  It takes a lot of courage to uproot yourself and replant somewhere completely different.

Thank you, Matt!

Day 198 - Mary Grace

This is Mary Grace.  We met on the street.

I was having a horrible day when I met Mary Grace.  This project fills me with all kinds of love, hope, happiness and a general sense of positivity, but those feelings can sometimes get depleted and then I start feeling and reacting in the exact opposite way.

I had been feeling so down that I was ready to toss in the towel on the project.  One part of me is filled with all of these good feelings, but then the other part of me was feeling disappointed, stressed, a little angry, and not in a good place in general.  Then I met Mary Grace and she restored my faith and reminded me of the reasons I'm doing this in the first place.

We're not perfect. We never will be, because we're human.  But if we strive to make forward-moving progress, eventually the moments and days which we spread positivity and kindness, and see positivity and kindness in others, will outnumber the moments and days that we don't.

When I asked Mary Grace the happiest thing happening in her life right now, she answered, "I'm very happy right now!"  She went on to explain that she sold her home in California, she was enjoying some free time, she's healthy, has a great job, and is just feeling grateful.

Mary Grace's recent act of kindness is that she donated money so that a person could take a Zumba class.  Her instructor has set up an anonymous program where people can donate money to help women who can't afford the fees.

When I asked Mary Grace if she has a personal mission statement, she answered, "I try to remember that I want to keep my heart soft and sweet, and to keep it that way, I have to be aware of how I communicate with people and who I allow in my life."  Mary Grace added that she does this by questioning herself: "How do I make my heart bigger?"

I asked Mary Grace something about herself which she considers to be a success and she answered, "I've developed good friendships."

Mary Grace was one of the kindest ladies I've met.  I told her I will think of her and remind myself that I'm working on having a big heart and keeping it soft and sweet.  We had a frank conversation and I confessed to Mary Grace that I'm finding that as I get older, it's a harder challenge to keep my heart soft and sweet.  When we were younger, we didn't even have to try.  Naive and protected by the love of our parents and family, our hearts were soft and sweet and full of love.  I told Mary Grace that life and experiences have hardened me a little, but I will continue to work at  keeping my heart soft and sweet.  When I ask myself, "how do I make my heart bigger?" the answer is simple.  This project.  This project has been the best experience in the world for me and meeting all of these people, helps me to continue to grow.

Thank you, Mary Grace.

Day 199 - Maeve

This is Maeve. We met at the bus stop.

The happiest thing happening in Maeve's life right now is her job, and that she gets to work with fun people, do good things, and make puppets!

When I asked Maeve if she's either recently performed an act of kindness or if she's been on the receiving end of kindness, she answered that she has a couple people in her life who are being really kind toward her.

Maeve's life's purpose:  "I am an artist."  Maeve explained that she experiences the world aesthetically and through her art, she tries to reflect back the beautiful and magical things she sees, which may be hidden to others.  Check out Maeve's work here! 

Thank you, Maeve.

Day 200 - Lou

This is Lou.  He was just trying to get coffee at Starbucks but I approached him to ask if I could take his picture for the project.

When I asked Lou the happiest thing happening in his life, he had so many he couldn't narrow it down! I love it when that happens.  He finally just answered, "an accumulation of a lot of different things."

Lou shared two recent examples where he was on the receiving end of kindness.  A co-worker had shared their lunch, and his wife had given him a ride to work.

"To pass onto other people, good intentions," Lou answered, when I asked if he has a personal mission statement or life's purpose.

I asked Lou something about himself which he considers to be a success and he answered, "bringing up my kids to the point where they are right now."  Lou thinks they're pretty good people.

I was so glad to have met Lou and I hope he was a little re-inspired by our meeting. He shared that he's been sitting on an idea for a project of his own.  It is an excellent idea, and I hope he pursues it. I won't spill the beans because it's a good idea and I forgot to ask if it was ok to talk about.  I encouraged Lou to start right away, and hope that he does!  His idea would make an excellent book!

Thank you, Lou.

Day 201 - 1985

This is 1985.  "1985" is his DJ Name on the KPSU radio show, Departures. (Thursdays from 9-10pm)   We met at my favorite coffee shop in the Hollywood District, Nectar Cafe.

I had stopped in for my after-work coffee and the barista asked if I had found a person for the day.  I told her I was on my way out to go searching, and she volunteered 1985.  (He isn't just any ol' customer, he's her boyfriend, so she knew he'd say yes!) I would have never known from his great spirits, but 1985 had just had his wisdom teeth removed earlier in the day.  He was such a trooper!

This picture is just from my phone because I learned the hard way that my new camera will let you take pictures even when there isn't a memory card in the slot.  Luckily I realized what I had done and took a few more pictures with my phone.

I asked 1985 the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he answered, "pursuing my passion of music and discovering that to be a true form of happiness."

1985 was recently on the receiving end of an act of kindness when a guy at the gas station complimented him on his nice smile.  1985 and I both anticipated that he'd also be receiving lots of loving kindness from his girlfriend who would be helping to take care of him while he recovered from his surgery that day.

When I asked 1985 if he has a personal mission statement, he answered with two quotes he refers to:  "Perfection is a curse" and "There is no finish line."

"Keeping myself in shape and having an open mind and a good heart," 1985 answered, when I asked something about himself he would consider to be a success.  1985 explained he had lost a bunch of weight and he's now keeping fit and healthy.  Awesome job, 1985!

Thank you, 1985,  for being in the project and going with the flow when I discovered my error.  You were so awesome! (especially considering your surgery that day!)

Day 202 - Charlotte

This is Charlotte.  My husband and I had traveled a ways to go buy a little pick-up truck from Charlotte's husband and while my husband and Charlotte's husband did their thing, Charlotte was so nice she agreed to let me take her picture for the project.  I thought this was so sweet.  Buying a new vehicle can be pretty stressful and then I realized I still hadn't found a person for the day.    Charlotte saved the day when she agreed to be in the project!

"My grandchildren," Charlotte answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in her life right now.

I asked Charlotte if she's performed an act of kindness or if she's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness. She said both, but she couldn't really share what they had been.

"To be content with whatever state I'm in," Charlotte answered, when I asked if she has a personal mission statement.

I asked Charlotte something about herself which she would consider to be a success and she answered, "getting to this point...having the basics, the kids are happily married and we have grand kinds, and we're all alive and healthy."

Thank you, Charlotte!

Here's a summary of the personal mission statements and life's purposes of the subjects from week 29:

• To live life to the fullest and do whatever it is to make yourself happy.
• Do the best you can, while empowering others to do the same.
• I try to remember that I want to keep my heart soft and sweet, and to keep it that way, I have to be aware of how I communicate with people and who I allow in my life.
• I am an artist - I experience the world aesthetically and through art, I try to reflect back the beautiful and magical things I see, which may be hidden to others. 
• To pass onto other people, good intentions.
• Perfection is a curse.
• There is no finish line.
• To be content with whatever state I'm in.

Thank you!

Week 30 is coming right up too!  We'll get caught up slowly but surely!

365 More People Pictures - Week 27

Hello! Thank you for checking out week 27!

If this is your first time stopping by, this is my second 365 Day Photography Challenge.  I successfully completed my first 365 Day Challenge and when it was finished, I couldn't stop!  I was so hooked and I hadn't even begun to scratch the surface on everything I need to learn about photography, so I decided to continue for another 365 days streak of taking a picture of a person, every single day, for second year.

Each picture is taken fresh daily.  I don't stockpile images.

If you'd like to follow along daily, my instagram username is @missellanea.

Day 182 -  Ashley 

This is Ashley.  We met at the bus stop.

Ashley was all smiles when we first started taking pictures but I decided I  wanted to get a few pictures looking more serious. The minute I asked if we could try some without smiling, we both cracked up and couldn't stop laughing or smiling.  Ashley had to work at composing herself while we were both fighting back a case of the giggles.  I love this project and that it's given me such fun and memorable experiences with complete strangers.

"Going back home to Hawaii," Ashley asked, when I asked the happiest thing happening in her life right now.  Ashley has been here for Flight Attendant School and she's graduating soon!  This will be her first trip back home in a while.

Ashley works at the mall.  A customer came in to her shop and only had enough money to cover their purchase, not including tax.  Ashley's recent act of kindness is that she paid for the tax so that the customer could afford the transaction.

"Helping others," Ashley answered, when I asked her life's purpose.  Some day, if I ever get on a plane again, I hope Ashley will be the flight attendant. She's going to be perfect in that job!

"I'm hard-working," Ashley said, when I asked her something about herself which she would consider to be a success.

Thank you, Ashley! Good luck!

Day 183 - Rob / 8Bit / Cary Nokey

This is Rob.  His full name is Rob Fusari, and yes, you've definitely heard his name before.

I had to attend a meeting after work on Monday.  I arrived early at the hotel where the meeting was to take place, and was waiting in the lobby to meet my brother.  I had intended for my brother or other family to be the person of the day, but since I had time to kill, I decided I'd just find someone in the lobby so that I could be free to just enjoy the time with my brother.

It's impossible not to notice Rob. His style is amazing and although it's not intentionally attention-grabbing, you can't help but to appreciate that he puts effort into the look he presents to the world. (Even after a day of traveling.)  I also noticed another girl with amazing style, and the best eyeglasses I've ever seen.  I observed them both for a while, trying to decide who to approach.  The girl was on her phone and the call seemed to go on forever, so I just walked over to Rob and asked if I could take his picture for my project.   Before I even finished explaining the project, Rob agreed.  I was a little surprised by how quickly he agreed to let me take his picture without much explanation on my part, but it's not the first time that someone has been so easily agreeable to letting me take their picture without even really knowing why I was asking for it.

I could tell that Rob and I had some sort of miscommunication.  Rob was starting to ready himself to take a picture with me, and when I didn't position myself next to him, he asked, "do you want a selfie with me?"  I clarified, "I just want your picture, just you!"  Then my brain started to catch up to what was happening. I realized he was famous and I was being an idiot for not recognizing him.   I asked, "wait, should I want to take a picture with you?"  I then apologized for not recognizing him.  Rob said it was good that I didn't know who he was and he seemed genuinely pleased that I picked him randomly.

Rob told me his full name and I knew I recognized it instantly, and it reinforced my thought that he's someone I've heard of, but I just couldn't figure it out, specifically.  I knew he was a musician, or in the industry, but we just left it at that and took the pictures.  Rob is a natural in front of the camera, and although I was nervous that I had this person in front of my camera who I knew was a big deal, Rob put me at complete ease.  Well, as "eased" as you can be when you don't want to blow a picture!

I've been so nervous posting this picture because after checking out Rob's sites, most of his public photos are beautifully styled and professional.  Some of his 8Bit/Cary Nokey photos are pretty glamorous, and then here I am...catching him as he was checking into a hotel, after likely having spent the day traveling.  It makes me appreciate Rob even that much more.  I feel like this isn't a picture of "The Rob Fusari," or "8Bit."  I feel like this is a picture of Rob.  Just Rob.

After we were finished making the pictures, Rob then told me the very condensed version of who he is and why I've heard his name.   Rob casually mentioned that he's a music producer and songwriter, and he worked with Lady Gaga, among others.  This is straight from his website, which I looked up when I got home, "Rob is a Grammy award winning, multi-platinum music producer, songwriter and music executive."  Rob was pretty humble with his introduction to me.   Rob is currently performing as 8Bit, with Cary Nokey, which he explained is pretty underground and he would have been surprised if I would have known him by that name.  He was in Portland to do a show with RuPaul the following day.    I've since learned that Rob is one of the people responsible for creating the Lady Gaga persona.   If you check out his website, you'll learn he's worked with some pretty huge artists.

I would make a horrible journalist, so it's a good thing I've never aspired to be one.  I hold back out of respect for the people I've met in this project.  Some people have bared their souls to me, and I know it would make for a better read, but I feel like they've shared those things with me, personally.  I want maintain their confidence and preserve the intimate moment I had the privilege of sharing with another human being.  I'm constantly trying to sift out the things people have shared with me which I think are ok to then share with you, from the things that I just need to hold in my head and in my heart.  I've sifted through the conversation with Rob, although I'm sure he didn't tell me anything that hasn't already been said publicly.  Since I don't use a recorder and I sometimes scribble notes in my journal so quickly that I can't even read my own writing, I also want to make sure I don't accidentally say something inaccurately.

"Finding myself," Rob answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.  "I went 40 years on this earth not knowing who I was.  I thought I knew, but then I woke up."  Knowing that sort of enlightenment often comes from really shitty circumstances and/or battling addiction, I asked Rob if he was clean and sober.  Rob confirmed he was.

One would think that when a person wins a Grammy, it would be the start of the rest of their lives.  Rob explained it was sort of the opposite.  Success, fame, money, and the Grammy, were actually the start of a couple very dark years, ending in the severing of personal and professional relationships.

It took those dark times and severed relationships for Rob to be able to find himself.  Rob had to see and nurture in himself, the potential he saw in so many others.  I had never thought of it before, but a music producer, in some ways, is a lot like a care-giver type person.  Some people spend so much time caring for others, they neglect care for themselves.   His life has been spent helping to build the careers of famous singers. Rob has been a "care-giver" type, but who's been caring for Rob?  He's now finally nurturing his own creative side as 8Bit and Cary Nokey.

I asked Rob if he's recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness.  Rob told me that he was recently on a subway in NYC, when a homeless guy approached him with a hard-luck story.   Everyone else was avoiding the guy and looking away, but Rob looked him in the eyes and listened to what the guy had to say.   Rob set aside judgement and skepticism and just listened to the guy's story.  The guy told him he needed $50 for a train ticket and a fresh start.  The guy was going to catch a train to where a friend, a free place to stay, and a clean slate were waiting for him at his destination.  Rob gave the guy $100, and wished him luck.  Rob knew it was a possibility that the guy was lying, but he also felt he had the opportunity to help save someone.   As much as Rob extended an act of kindness to the homeless guy on the subway, Rob recognized that it was the guy who actually saved him.  The act of simply wanting to help another human being with nothing in return, helped Rob to continue to heal and grow.

When I asked Rob if he has a personal mission statement or life's purpose, he quickly answered, "that's easy, I've gotta find peace."  Rob went on to explain it's not money, it's not fame...he's searching for peace.  "My personal mission statement," Rob said, is "to find peace and to share it with anyone who wants to share."  By this time, I was holding back tears.  I didn't want to embarrass myself or Rob, but I was genuinely touched by this person I had just met.  I didn't even know what to say and my emotions were starting to get to me.  "I wish you peace," is all I could manage to say to Rob.  Those were the only words I could find at the moment. Perhaps the reason I couldn't find any other words was because that was my sincere hope for him.

I typically don't limit people's answer to the "success" question, but in Rob's case, winning a Grammy was just too easy of an answer.  When I asked Rob something about himself which he would consider to be a success, I specified, something other than the obvious.  Rob answered, "My biggest success is that I'm still trying.  I know that I don't have anything real.  I'd really like to find real friends."  Wow.  I was pretty stunned, and again, he just touched my heart.  Rob wasn't dismissing any of his accomplishments, but he had just revealed that even more important than fame and wealth, is to be able to find a real friend.  I just wanted to give him a hug and tell him everything's going to be ok.  I told him something like, "we can be friends."  I think he thought I was being funny, or insincere, but I genuinely meant it.  It was perplexing to me why a guy like Rob doesn't have dozens of true friends.  He took a moment out of his life and shared a bit of his story with a complete stranger, and he did so kindly, and with honesty.  A person like that should have friends.   I guess when you work in that industry, you either have fans, or you don't.  A true friend would be a difficult and rare find in that business.

I didn't realize it when I first spotted Rob and the other stylish girl with the amazing glasses, but they were together.  The girl with the cute glasses, Jayne, came over and introduced herself.  She works with Rob.  And, just like that, we were finished.  Rob was gone.  Jayne and I visited for a moment, and I tried to pass along my thanks, via Jayne.

Thank you, Rob.  Remember, you now have friends in Portland.

Day 184 - Evan

This is Evan.  We met walking down the street.

I asked Evan the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he responded, "I'm pretty happy in general, so it's hard to pick, but being in Portland and being able to hang out with friends."

When I asked Evan if he's recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of kindness, Evan said that he had a good friend who was there for him. The friend was willing to drop what he was doing, meet Evan, and just be there for him.  I told Evan about the coincidence, and irony, explaining that the person I met the day before, is longing to find a friend like that and how even though he had fame, wealth, and success, he's just looking for a true friend like the one Evan has.

"Do the right thing, at the right time, in the right place, for the right reason," Evan answered, when I asked if he has a personal mission statement or life's purpose.  Evan's 5th grade teacher shared this ethics motto and it's been with him ever since.  Kina’ole is also a Hawaiian word of the same meaning.

When I asked Evan something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered, "What I'm really most proud of, is I seem to always be able to see the bright side, and I like to make people smile."

Thank you, Evan.  You made me smile.

Day 185 - Ron

This is Ron.  I had another meeting after work and was getting a late start finding a subject for the evening.  I headed to the transit station, thinking I could easily find a subject there. I was mistaken.  I was rejected by 5 people.  However, since they were all standing under the same bus shelter, I like to think of it as one big rejection, rather than several separate rejections.

I wandered over to another bus shelter where Ron was standing and asked if he would be in the project.  I was expecting he would also reject me, but he happily agreed.

"My daughters," Ron answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Ron's recent act of kindness is that he bought coffee for a co-worker who was having a particularly tough day, and then he helped the friend talk through the problem.

"Each day I try to make the world a better place in some small way," Ron answered, when I asked if he has a personal mission statement or life's purpose.  Ron's thought is that if we each do something small to make the world a better place, together, we can make a difference.

"My family," Ron said, is something about himself which he would consider to be a success.

Thank you, Ron.

Day 186 - Jesse

This is Jesse. We met on the street.

"I just got married a couple months ago, and I'm enjoying being newly married," Jesse said, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

When I asked Jesse if he's recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of kindness, he thought for a long time before answering.  With a smile, and a hint of disappointment, he said the only specific thing he can think of recently, is that he gave french fries to a co-worker who was hungry.

"To contribute in some way to making our society work better," Jesse answered, is his life's purpose.  Jesse added that he doesn't even care about receiving any credit or recognition for it, but he just wants to be able to make a difference.

When I asked Jesse something about himself which he considers to be a success, he explained that he's now able to do what he wants to do.  Basically, he's had to do a little battle within himself in order to battle for the greater good.  Jesse has overcome anxieties in order to work at effecting social change for us all.

Thank you, Jesse!  Congratulations to you and your wife.

Day 187 - Matthew

"I'm dating a pretty girl and I'm in Portland for the first time," Matthew answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

I went out with group of co-workers after work on Friday.  We met up for happy hour before going across the street to the One Motorcycle Show.  I spotted Matthew, sitting alone at a table, looking a little stressed, and clearly absorbed by whatever work he was doing on his computer.  I wondered what could be so important that he was working, at a bar, on a Friday night.  I later learned that he was a photographer and he was in town covering the One Show for a magazine.   Once I learned that he was a photographer, it made perfect sense why he was sitting alone with his MacBook on a Friday Night.  Before starting to learn photography, I had no idea that the lifestyle of a photographer means that if you're not currently shooting, you will often find yourself alone at night, editing and processing photos.  Matthew was getting in a little work before going back across the street to shoot the One Show.

I asked Matthew if he's recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness.  Matthew said that he's recently done some photography work for free.

"Wet reckless," Matthew answered, when I asked if he has a personal mission statement or life's purpose. Hmmm....I'm just going to leave it at that.

"I'm young and handsome, and it's easy for me to get laid," Matthew answered, when I asked him something about himself which he would consider to be a success.  I laughed and congratulated him for giving the funniest answer I've heard so far.  I know this comment may make Matthew sounds arrogant, but he was a nice guy and he was just being funny.  He told me the story of the origin of his statement and then it all made sense.  The other day, Matthew was really stressin' about things and a friend tried to get him to loosen up a bit by telling him he needed to relax...that he's young, good looking and it's easy for him to get laid.  It worked!  Matthew now knows everything works out.

Thank you, Matthew.

Day 188 - TJ

This is TJ.  We met at a coffee shop downtown.

"I can be myself," TJ answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.  TJ is from Japan. He's in Portland to attend fashion design school. He's only been in the US a few months, so we worked at making sure we weren't losing anything in translation.  I think TJ was saying that now that he's here to pursue his dream, he's happy he can be himself, and be true to his calling.

"I try to smile every day so I can make people happy," TJ answered, when I asked if he's recently performed an act of kindness. TJ said that smiling at people was part of his New Year's resolution.

When I asked TJ if he had a personal mission statement or life's purpose, he was unsure if he was understanding the question, so he asked instead if he could share his goals and dreams.  TJ's dream is to work in the fashion industry.  He's learning English now, and he hopes to continue his study in New York, London or Paris.

Instead of asking TJ something about himself which he would consider to be a success, I asked him about something he's good at.  TJ answered, "I'm good at smiling."  Indeed, he was a great smiler.  Once again, we had to contain giggles and giant smiles in order to get a more serious look.  This isn't really what I would call "serious," but when you're taking a picture of a good smile-r, who's on a mission to smile at people and make them happy, this is about as serious as it gets.

Thank you, TJ.  Wishing you the best of luck in pursuing your dreams!

Here's the summary of the personal mission statements and life's purpose of the subjects from this week:

• Helping others.
• To find peace and to share it with anyone who wants to share.
• Do the right thing, at the right time, in the right place, for the right reason.
• Each day I try to make the world a better place in some small way.
• To contribute in some way to making our society work better.
• I try to smile every day so I can make people happy.

Thank you for following along!

Wishing you a great week!

365 More People Pictures - Week 23

Hello! Thank you for checking out week 23 of the 365 More People Pictures project!

Day 154 - Jordan

This is Jordan.  We met downtown, Portland.  It's a little strange, but I had been shooting the entire day for the street photography workshop, but I hadn't actually taken any pictures specifically for this project. (I'll tell you more about the workshop in a later, separate, post.)  Class had just finished, my head was ready to explode with excitement and information, and simultaneously, I was feeling both complete exhaustion and absolute elation. I had just spent the past 2.5 days with an amazing group of people, filling my head with new knowledge and inspiration, and basically felt like I had fallen in love...with photography.  I was just wandering Portland on a Sunday evening, trying to absorb and process everything I had just learned, and hoping I could also find one more person to photograph for this project.  And then I spotted Jordan!  Yes!

When I approached Jordan to ask if I could take his picture, he agreed and then he totally turned it on!  He was such an awesome ham!  I can just imagine that he and his friends must spend a lot of time taking pictures, because Jordan was more comfortable in front of a camera than anyone I've ever met.  He was so funny! I actually had to turn down his volume a bit, just to keep it believable!

I asked Jordan the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he answered, "I'm currently conceptualizing a dance party, called "Sway," to happen at the end of February.  Jordan is planning this huge event, in Baltimore, in addition to his responsibilities to his job.  He's got a full plate.

When I asked Jordan if he's either performed an act of kindness, or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness, Jordan explained that he was just on the receiving end of kindness.  Jordan's Grandmother died recently and he unexpectedly had to miss work, and stay in his Grandmother's town.  Jordan's friend helped him in his absence, by paying for his storage unit rental.

Jordan's personal mission statement is actually in the form of a tattoo he has on his shoulder.  It was cold and raining, otherwise, I would have asked him if we could see it.  Jordan has a tattoo of an Egyptian Sky Disc, which has a banner of peace and three circles within a circle. The circles represent Art, Science, and Spirituality, and the unification of all three, and being of service to the world.   Jordan's job is actually in recruiting for an art school, so he's actually living his mission!

"I've had a lot of experiences that would lead a different kind of person to be more cynical or negative about life and people, but it's actually catalyzed a deep well of compassion and empathy," Jordan answered, when I asked something about himself which he would consider to be a success.  It sounds like Jordan has gone through some difficult times in life, but instead of becoming hardened and calloused, his experiences have expanded his capacity for love and empathy.

Thank you, Jordan!  So glad to have met you!

Day 155 - Melanie

This is Melanie.  We met at the bus stop.  Melanie and I were having fun taking pictures. She was patient with me and let me take several shots.  It's a good thing she was so patient with me.  Of all the photos we had taken, only one came out.

I ended up with a casualty at the photography workshop I had attended over the weekend...I dropped and broke a lens.  I was broken-hearted, not because it was an expensive lens, but because with Eric Kim's help, I was learning how to use it.  I became familiar with it, appreciated it, and actually sort of started to love that little sucker.  Of all the lenses to break, however, this would be the one.  It was the inexpensive kit lens that came with the camera.  One thing, one very big thing, I learned over the weekend was that it doesn't matter what you've got to work with, just do it and learn to do it 10 times better than you've ever done before. (Or do it 10 times better than anyone else has ever done. For now, I'm just learning to beat my own self.)   That little cheapie lens and I did things we had never done before. I discovered a new appreciation for it. So much so, that I was going to start using it regularly instead of the nicer, more expensive, lens that I have been using.  After some tinkering around, I determined that the only thing broken was the auto-focus motor.  No problem, I'd just focus manually from now on.  Melanie was my first subject after my decision to continue using the broken lens.  I was mistaken though.  More than just the auto-focus motor had been destroyed.  Even with focusing manually, it would still slip out of focus after I thought everything had been dialed in.   I'm so glad Melanie was having fun with our little photoshoot, because had she been unwilling to let me take so many pictures, I wouldn't have had anything to show you.

The downside of taking so many pictures is that we ran out of time!  The bus came before we were finished with the questions!  Melanie answered the two questions I was able to ask as she was boarding the bus.

"School," Melanie answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in her life right now.

When I asked Melanie something about herself which she would consider to be a success, she first said, "overcoming...", then she paused, and changed her answer to, "maintaining relationships with my friends."  I don't know what Melanie has overcome in her life, but I'm so very glad she came through to the other side, and that she has a great group of friends to celebrate with her.  She was a joy!

Day 156 - Mari

This is Mari.  We also met at the bus stop.

The happiest thing happening in Mari's life right now is that she just got married this past year.  And yes, she confirmed that she and her husband are happily enjoying the honeymoon phase.

Mari works in social services. Her profession enables her to perform acts of kindness daily, for which, she feels quite rewarded.

"To be a good person," Mari answered, when I asked if she has a personal mission statement or life's purpose.

"I've gotten through some tough times this past 10 years," Mari answered, when I asked something about herself which she continues to be a success.  When we're in the thick of the bad stuff, it's so hard to believe that eventually we'll make it through to the other side.  But once we make it and can look back at all that we went through, we're amazed by the inner strength that we never even knew we had.

Mari, wishing you and your husband a lifetime of happiness!

Day 157 - Shane

This is Shane, another person I met at the bus stop.  And, I'm really sorry...but I did it again.  We totally ran out of time.  We only had time for two questions before Shane's bus arrived.

"My 2 year old son," Shane answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

When I asked Shane something about himself which he considers to be a success, he answered, "my family."

Thank you, Shane!

Day 158 - Kimmie

This is Kimmie.  I was having such a hard time finding a subject this day that I finally had to drive to the park & ride station, hoping for sure I'd be able to find a willing subject there.  It was pouring rain, and I had been rejected so many times that night.  I was almost ready to call it quits because the people who had declined me, did so in a not-very-nice way.  I was ready to halt the 365 project and go in a completely different direction, inspired by everything I had learned in the street photography workshop over the weekend.  Then I reminded myself that without fail, every time I've ever had a hard time finding a subject, I always end up meeting someone extra special.  Kimmie was that extra special person and I can't help but think it was meant to be.

"My sobriety," Kimmie answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in her life right now.

When I asked Kimmie if she's recently performed an act of kindness or if she's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness, Kimmie explained that right now, she's on the receiving end.  Kimmie is new to recovery.  Addiction had taken her to the point where she had lost everything in her life.  Everything.  Some of the things/people needed to go but other things/people, she's working to reclaim.  A woman has taken Kimmie into her home and is helping to mentor her through recovery. Kimmie has been strong enough to know that she needs help.

I asked Kimmie if she had a personal mission statement or life's purpose and Kimmie responded, "To be the best mother I can be. To be independent. To give my children the life I never had. To change the cycle so they don't have to struggle like I did."

When I asked Kimmie something about herself which she considered to be a success, Kimmie again answered, "my sobriety."

Kimmie and I then continued to talk while we waited for the bus to arrive.  It felt like we were meant to run into each other.  Kimmie admitted that she had been having a tough day and had potentially put herself at risk earlier, but she was able to maintain sobriety for another day.  I'm glad I was able to be an ear...Kimmie just really needed to be heard that night.

Keep up the good work, Kimmie.  I know you can do it.

Day 159 - Ryan

This is Ryan.  We met walking down the street.

When I asked Ryan the happiest thing happening in his life right now, he said it was a tough question but decided that it was having a 3-day weekend.

I asked Ryan if he's recently performed an act of kindness, or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness. Ryan said he feels like he's always on the receiving end of kindness, but his job in employee benefits enables him to be on the giving end.  When people come to him, not understanding something, they're grateful when he can help explain things and clarify any confusion they have.

"To have as meaningful of life as possible, without having to work too hard for it," Ryan answered, when I asked if he has a personal mission statement or life's purpose. Ryan clarified that he doesn't, in any way, mean that in a lazy sort of way. Rather, we discussed the importance of actually living the life we work so hard for.

"Yesterday was my 13th anniversary working for the same employer," Ryan answered, when I asked something about himself which he would consider to be a success.

Thank you, Ryan!

Day 160 - Zachary

This is Zachary.

When I asked Zachary the happiest thing happening in his life right now, he answered, "being in a relationship with a woman I've loved for eleven years." The way Zachary answered, something about the tone in his voice, made me realize the relationship was new, but his love has obviously been long-lived.  I wondered if Zachary's lady hadn't known that he had loved her for so long. I explained my curiosity to Zachary, and he confirmed that the woman has always known he's loved her, but the timing has always been off. They've been the best of friends for the past 11 years, and they would sometimes go months without speaking with each other, but they would always pick right back up where they left off.  They've never had the chance to actually be with one another because they've always been with other people, or just in a friendship with each other.  Timing finally worked out, and now they're together.

Zachary said he likes to perform random acts of kindness, and one thing that is important for him is looking in and taking care of his brother.  I didn't ask details about Zachary's brother, but Zachary said that he tries to help him do basic things around the house. He said it doesn't feel like he's helping, but when he sees his brother's struggles, he realizes even just helping him around the house is helping is brother in a good way.

"Be better than you were yesterday," Zachary answered, when I asked if he has a personal mission statement or life's purpose.  Zachary explained that in the past, he's always had to have competitors or competition to motivate him to do better.  Then one day it dawned on him that he needs to stop worrying about being better than anyone else, or using competition as a motivator.  He decided he just wanted to be better than he was yesterday.

I asked Zachary one thing about himself which he considers to be a success, and he answered, "my education."

Thank you, Zachary!

Below is the summary of the personal mission statements and/or life's purposes of the subjects from this week:

• Art, Science, and Spirituality, and the unification of all three, and being of service to the world.
• To be a good person
• To be the best mother I can be. To be independent. To give my children the life I never had. To change the cycle, so they don't have to struggle like I did.
• To have as meaningful life as possible, without having to work too hard for it.
• Be better than you were yesterday.

Thank you to every subject in this project.  I appreciate you!   And thank you for reading another week!

365 More People Pictures - Week 22

Hello! Thank you for checking in on week 22 of The 365 More People Pictures project.

These are the subjects from the previous week.  We'll catch up with the subjects from the past 7 days very soon!  I'm sorry I got behind in the blog posts.  I'm happy to report, I was in a workshop all last weekend and am just now getting a chance to catch my breath.  I've not missed a daily photo, no worries there.  I just got behind on the blog.  If you would like to follow along daily, my Instagram username is @missellanea.

Day 147 - Greg

This is Greg.  We met at the bus stop.  The bus stop has become my favorite, but most challenging, spot to meet people and subjects.  The upside is that I can usually always find someone waiting for the bus. The downside is, I never know if I'm going to get just 30 seconds before their bus arrives, or if we'll have plenty of time for photos and the "interview" questions.

"I'm clean and sober," Greg declared, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.  Awesome work, Greg!

Greg's recent act of kindness is that he helped a homeless guy get a place to live.  (Again, awesome work!) One of the most amazing aspects of recovery is that one goes from a place of sometimes helpless/hopeless despair, to being in a position to be of help and service to others.  Greg is now giving back and paying it forward by helping to show other people the way to a new life.

"There are too many ways to succeed, to accept failure," Greg answered, when I asked if he has a personal mission statement.   Greg's mission statement is inspired by Anthony Robbins.  Yes!  Persistence and perseverance!  If we fail one way but keep trying, we will eventually find success.  "Success" may look different than our original concept of it, or maybe we end up taking a completely different route by which to get there, but persistence and perseverance will eventually clear the path and lead us there.

I asked Greg something about himself which he would consider to be a success and he answered, "my son."

Good luck, Greg!

Day 148 - J.D.

This is J.D..  We met outside of Velo Cult.  He was out walking his dog, Betty.

"I'm still emotionally lit up from seeing the Oregon Coast for the first time," J.D. answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.   J.D. is from Boston and just moved to Portland a few months ago.  I love it when I get to meet and welcome people who are new to Portland!  Although, meeting J.D. and Betty felt more like meeting lifelong residents.  A man, walking his dog, to a combination bike shop/pub - J.D. and Betty are definitely Portlanders now.

J.D.'s recent act of kindness is that he bought breakfast for a homeless person.  J.D. also said that he treats people with respect, and hopes to get some in return, but he gives it freely, regardless.

"Wandering the Earth seeking truth, humility & the answer to the riddle of life," is J.D.'s personal mission statement.

I asked J.D. something about himself which he would consider to be a success and he answered, "just being a good listener."  He is indeed!  We talked for a while when we met...long enough that Betty plopped herself down on the sidewalk for a momentary dog-nap while we visited.

Welcome, J.D.!

Day 149 - Elsa

This is Elsa. We met at the bus stop.  I'm a grounded person, but I believe that anything is possible.  Elsa was such a magical person that after we were finished, I walked around the corner and was compelled to triple-check the pictures on my camera to verify the interaction we just had was actually real.  Elsa was so fairy-godmother-ish, I wouldn't have been at all surprised if her pictures came out looking like she was swirled in fairy dust.

"Anticipating good things," Elsa answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in her life right now.  The twinkle in her eyes when she spoke made me believe that by simply "anticipating good things," the good things will surely come.

"To be helpful to people," Elsa answered, when I asked if she had a personal mission statement or life's purpose.

When I asked Elsa something about herself which she would consider to be a success, she answered, "oh, everything! All is well!"  In that moment, I got the feeling that Elsa has it all figured out.  I would imagine that not all has been well for Elsa at every moment in her life, but at that specific moment, it was.  This moment, now, is all we really have for certain.

Elsa speaks with an accent but I couldn't detect its origin, so I asked where she's from.  Elsa answered that she's from Hungary, and then she asked my origin.  When I told her I was from Klamath Falls, in Southern Oregon, she said that she had been there once before.  I was amazed at what she then proceeded to say.  Elsa said that when she was there, she felt a sense of melancholy.  It wasn't a personal feeling, but rather, one that she was absorbing from the town itself. She felt like the area has suffered years of fighting and tension.  With those few words about a town she had only once visited, she pretty much summarized the town's history and present.  I explained to Elsa that her assessment was accurate, but that there are people working to change that. Together, we hoped for a more peaceful and optimistic future.

Wishing you all those good things, Elsa.

Day 150 - Joaquin

This is Joaquin.  We met outside of Sam's.  It was actually kind of funny.  I approached Joaquin to ask if I could take his picture but before I even finished my spiel, he knew who I was and what I was asking. Joaquin explained that his friend Kate was in the project just a few days ago!

"I found someone that I really connect with and I'm enjoying spending time with her," Joaquin answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Joaquin's recent act of kindness is that he sometimes buys meals for people, but he felt he's also often on the receiving end of kindness.  Joaquin, being a little hard on himself, said that he can be a frustrating person but that people give him kindness and patience.

"To be content with where I am in life, but to always be working toward a goal," Joaquin answered, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement.  Joaquin and I had a nice talk about learning to appreciate what we have, but to also continue to strive toward better.  Joaquin is a goal-setter.   His approach is basically to dream big, but set small, more realistic, goals.  He said he's constantly trying to one-up himself.

When I asked Joaquin something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered, "I've been in rough spots in life but now I have a roof over my head, clothes on my body, and most times, a full belly.

Thank you, Joaquin! Wishing you continued success.

Day 151 - Ben

This is Ben.  I've decided to call him Hollywood Ben.

"Just being alive," Ben answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Ben's recent act of kindness is pretty amazing.  Around Christmas, Ben gave $20 to every homeless person he encountered that day.  He estimates there were 30 - 40 people in the Hollywood District alone.  What's remarkable about this isn't that he did this because he's a wealthy guy with pockets full of $20's.  Ben said he's not in a position to do this, but he just happened to be in a position to do it on that specific day.  Ben said that he wished it wasn't about money and that he tries to spread kindness every day.

"To bring happiness into the world, and my own happiness is a by-product of that," Ben replied, when I asked if he has a personal mission statement or life's purpose.

When I asked Ben something about himself which he considers to be a success, he answered that he didn't know yet because he's a constant work in progress. Ben is an artist. He said he didn't set out to be a success. He just wants to create.

Wishing you lots of luck, Ben!

Day 152 - Jord Vader

This is Jord.  We met downtown.  Jord was such a cool dude, I only wish I had a recorder!  There's no way I was fast enough to keep up with him by just scribbling notes in my journal!  Words flow out of Jord like a river.  So much so, I was expecting him to start rapping at any moment!

I asked Jord the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he said that he was on his way to go hang out with his girlfriend.

Jord shared so many brilliant and poetic thoughts, but his personal mission statement can basically be summarized as, "to live in kindness."  Jord's thought is that if we could all wake up each morning and tell ourselves, "don't be an asshole today," then we could change the world.  I confess...I did this two days in a row, and I had two really good days!  (I managed not to be an A-hole both days!  I need to keep up with this mantra. Jord is onto something.)

The answers to my questions all sort of blurred together with Jord, but in a beautiful way. I decided not to worry too much about having specific answers to the questions I asked, and just tried to go with it.  Jord's recent act of kindness and something about himself which he would consider to be a success are basically his way of life.  Jord said he doesn't measure success with money, and explained, "I just enjoy being here and pursuing my higher calling.  I feel a sense of a greater good around me, expect more goodness out of myself, and that I am helping us with this battle by believing that good shit can, and will, happen."

Keep being you, Jord.

Day 153 - Julian

This is Julian. We also met downtown Portland.

You'll notice this is a different style than most portraits in this project.  I took this picture while out shooting during a street photography workshop being taught by Eric Kim.  I intend to share my experience with you in more depth, but I will just tell you I was under stimulation-overload when I took this.

Eric Kim and my partner in class, Chee, were with me at this very moment!!!  The look is completely different because I was shooting with a different lens and I was working on a more candid, street style.  I actually hadn't even intended to get Julian.  I wanted my partner, Chee, to get the shot.  Chee was working on approaching strangers, whereas that's one of the few strengths I have when it comes to photography.   (I was working on basic photography skills, gaining more street confidence, and learning a more candid approach.) Julian just looked like the perfect person for Chee, but Julian was so awesome and patient, we both had our opportunity with him. (And talk about nervous!  Eric Kim was watching over us the whole time! I couldn't even think!)

When I asked Julian the happiest thing happening in his life right now, he said, "This! This is the happiest thing happening in my life right now!"  I love that Julian was flattered, rather than annoyed or intimidated by the three of us and our impromptu photoshoot!  Obviously, Julian has great style and a person who puts that much thought and consideration into their look, appreciates when others appreciate them.

Julian's recent act of kindness is one he performs frequently, but one he doesn't really tell people about. He often goes to buy food for homeless people he sees on his way into work.  Yes, it's true.  Julian is as sweet and kind-hearted as he is handsome and stylish.

We had been talking about fashion when I asked Julian if he had a personal mission statement.  Julian said that he likes the quote, "fashion is forever changing, but your style is you."

I asked Julian something about himself which he considers to be a success and he answered, "who I am, where I came from, and how I've gotten to where I am."  Julian said that a year ago, he wouldn't have predicted where he is now or the job that he has. Julian is excited and optimistic that in a year from now, he'll be able to look back and see even more progress.

Thank you, Julian!  Wising you the best!

Here's the summary of the perusal mission statements and life's purpose of the subjects from this week:

• There are too many ways to succeed, to accept failure,
• Wandering the Earth seeking truth, humility & the answer to the riddle of life.
• To be helpful to people.
• To be content with where I am in life, but to always be working toward a goal.
• To bring happiness into the world, and my own happiness is a by-product of that.
• To live in kindness.
• Fashion is forever changing, but your style is you.

Thank you to each and every subject in this project, and thank you for following along!

See you very soon with the subjects from this week!

365 More People Pictures - Week 21

Happy New Year! We're finished with week 21!

I'm excited to tell you that I'm finally taking a real photography class next weekend!  Well, it's not even really a "class."  It's more like a life-changing opportunity to learn from one of the greats!

It's pretty intimidating, actually.  Instead of wading in gradually,  I'm diving in head-first and will attend a workshop being taught by Eric Kim.  Eric Kim is one of the most well-known street photographers and bloggers in the world.

I'm nervous and intimidated because I'm lacking in some very basic skills.  It's like taking a cooking class from Gordon Ramsay when you've never learned how to boil an egg, slice tomatoes properly, or make gravy.  The beautiful thing about Eric Kim, is that he is as much a teacher as he is a photographer and writer.  He has a genuine desire to teach anyone who has a genuine desire to learn.

I'm looking forward to expanding my mind and my skills, and sharing with you soon.

Day 140 - Christie

This is Christie.  We met at the bus stop at the Mall.

The happiest thing happening in Christie's life right now is her work on a documentary film about Portland in the 70's, the music scene back then, and the murder of the father of her daughter.  A documentary sounds like such a challenging undertaking and I can't wait till it's finished.

I asked Christie if she's recently performed an act of kindness and she explained that she helped a woman and her son get off the streets and into a home.

Christie's life's purpose right now is, "to reach people for Jesus, finish the movie, and singing."

When I asked Christie something about herself which she considers to be a success, she answered, "I'm a survivalist."

Thank you, Christie!  Looking forward to seeing you you push your film through to fruition, and wishing you success!

Day 141 - Alex

This is Alex. We met just walking down the street together.

"My job," Alex answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Alex's recent act of kindness is one that he performs at least once per week.  He sees an elderly homeless lady frequently, and at least one time per week, he gives her $5.  She always thanks him and tells him it will help with her electric bill.

Alex's life's purpose is "to find happiness, be open to all types of people, and to be a good person in general."

I asked Alex something about himself which he considers to be a success and he answered, "my work ethic."  Alex went on to explain he inherited it from his father, who inherited it from his father.  We talked about how our parents can have such a strong influence on our work ethic and explained I also inherited my work ethic from my Mom, who never called in sick.  Alex is 2.5 years into his apprenticeship program to become an electrician and he's not called in sick once.

Alex, thank you!

Day 142 - Bradina

This is Bradina.  We met on the sidewalk.  When I approached Bradina to ask if I could take her picture, she agreed, but then got this look on her face like, why did I just say yes?  She explained she just got off work from her job as a dog groomer.  I know I wouldn't feel at all camera-ready after having bathed just my one dog.   She had been grooming dogs all day, so I appreciate her willingness to let me take her picture even after such a hard day's work.

When I asked Bradina about the happiest thing happening in her life right now, she said it was a hard question to answer. When people say that, it's usually for only two reasons - either life is so great that they can't choose the happiest thing happening in their lives, or the other reason is that life isn't so perfect right now.  Bradina paused and then answered,  "I have a job and a home, and it's my birthday tomorrow."

Bradina's recent act of kindness is that she had just alerted a woman driving by that her tire was flat.  It had just happened.  Bradina heard a noise and then saw the woman's flattened tire.

When I asked Bradina if she had a personal mission statement or life's purpose, she wasn't able to give an answer, saying "it's a dilemma of mine, currently."  We circled back to the question at the end and she answered that her purpose in life is, "raising my son to be a loving and caring gentleman."  Something tells me she's already doing a great job of that.

"I made a career for myself," Bradina answered, when I asked something about herself which she considers to be a success.  Brandina said that she hadn't imagined herself becoming a dog groomer.  She started out assisting and bathing dogs, and then discovered that she has a natural talent for grooming.

Thank you, Bradina! Happy Birthday!

Day 143 - Ian

This is Ian.  He was in a bit of a hurry, but stopped long enough to let me take his picture for the project.  It was also freezing!  I like this picture because it makes Ian look badass.  As I was about to take the picture, Ian asked, "do I have to smile?"  I told him he didn't have to smile if he didn't want to.  This may be his tough-guy look and I know I'm blowing his cover - but in real life, he was about as sweet as could be.

I asked Ian the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he said, "I just proposed to my girlfriend...and she said yes!" They were just engaged about a week prior.

Ian's recent act of kindness is that he gave money to a homeless person.

"Do the best you can and try not to hurt anyone while you're doing it," Ian answered, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or life's purpose.

"Getting the girl in my life," Ian said, is something about himself which he considers to be a success.  Awwww.  Wishing you and your fiancé the very best!

Day 144 - Curtis

This is Curtis.  We met at the little park along the Columbia River.  Although it was cold, it was a beautiful day and I was surprised to see so many people starting out their new year strolling along the riverfront in the cold.

When I spotted Curtis and approached him to ask if I could take his picture for the project, he agreed without hesitation.

I asked Curtis the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he said, "to live to see another year, good health, and to be in retirement."  Curtis went on to say that he's just so thankful for a lot of things in his life.

Curtis told me that he had come to the river to think about things and sort a few things out in his mind. Curtis was concerned that he couldn't articulate an answer as well as he would have liked.  I could tell his mind was elsewhere and I explained to Curtis that I totally understand the feeling...I retreat to the trails/lakes/rivers myself, and I know how jolting it can be when you're deep in thought and then a person comes along and you have to force yourself to come back to the present moment and interact.   I was happy Curtis shared a little of his time with me.

I asked Curtis if he's recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness.  Curtis said he's a giver -he helps his friends, family, kids and grandkids, and his ex-wife.

When I asked Curtis if he had a personal mission statement or life's purpose, he answered that his mission is, "to be rich and pass wealth onto my children and grandchildren so they don't have to struggle the way I did, and so they can become contributors and not takers."  I could see love manifesting in physical form, right before my eyes.  At that moment, I could see in Curtis' expression just how much love and hope he had for his children and grandchildren.  It was as though I could see the love he had for his family, and the dreams he has for them, spill from his heart to become revealed by the look on his face and the sparkle in his eyes.  I could just feel the love he has for his family.

Something about himself which Curtis considers to be a success, is that he's successfully raised three daughters who have all three graduated college, are married and raising families of their own, and he has a son who is still in college now.  Curtis went on to remark just how good his daughters were growing up, and how he never had to worry about them being "renegades."  They were good girls and didn't get into any trouble.  I had to hide the tears that were forming in my eyes.  I was wondering about Curtis' kids, and hoping they knew how very much their father loved them.

After we finished with the picture and interview, I thanked Curtis for letting me interrupt him and for being in the project.  I commented that he picked a great spot to come and gather his thoughts.  I love this spot on the river - you can stand on the Washington side of the river and look across to the Oregon side, and soothing action is all around you...planes, trains, automobiles, and boats.  Somehow, instead of being overwhelmed by all of the movement; cars driving across the bridge, planes flying overhead, trains pounding down the rails, the river flowing by and transporting boats along with it, you can find peace there.

I hoped Curtis was able to sort out whatever was on his mind.   After leaving him, I was struck with the thought that Curtis has already passed on immeasurable wealth to his family in the way he gives them his love.

Day 145 - Chris

This is Chris.  We met at one of my favorite trails.  Chris was about to unload his mountain bike and hit the trail when I approached to ask if I could take his picture for the project.  Chris agreed, and then laughed a little, explaining that he had just come from a dentist appointment and his mouth was still numb.  We took a few pictures so I could make sure I got one where he looked most natural, and not like he had just come from the dentist.

The happiest thing happening in Chris life right now is, "going to college."

I asked Chris if he's recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness.  Of course, Christmas was just last week so he answered, "giving and receiving gifts."  Chris also added that his brother let him borrow his bike while he's home from college.

I asked Chris if he had a personal mission statement or life's purpose and he answered, "to get through college and find something that I like."

When I asked Chris something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered, "that I made it to college!"

Thank you, Chris!  Wishing you success in school and whatever comes next.

Day 146 - Susan

This is Susan.  We met at the trail.

"My health is good and my children are fine," Susan answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in her life right now.

Susan's recent act of kindness is that she does volunteer work at the free clinic.

I asked Susan if she has a personal mission statement or life's purpose and she answered that her purpose in life is "to watch my children grow up, doing well."  Susan said that's the main reason she doesn't want to exit life early.

"I'm 73 and still working," Susan said, when I asked her something about herself which she would consider to be a success.  She had also just finished walking 5 miles with her dog!  (I think she said 5 miles.)  I told Susan that my mom is her age and she's still working as well, and that she thinks it keeps her young.  Susan agreed and told me to tell my mom that she's right!

Thank you, Susan!

Here's a summary of the personal mission statements or life's purposes of the subjects from this week:

• To reach people for Jesus, finish the movie, and singing.
• To find happiness, be open to all types of people, and to be a good person in general.
• Raising my son to be a loving and caring gentleman.
• Do the best you can and try not to hurt anyone while you're doing it.
• To be rich and pass wealth onto my children and grandchildren so they don't have to struggle the way I did, and so they can become contributors and not takers.
• To get through college and find something that I like.
• To watch my children grow up, doing well.

Thank you for following along, and thank you to all of the subjects in this project! We're learning so much from you, and appreciate that you shared yourself with us.

Thank you!

365 More People Pictures - Week 20

Hello! Sorry.  I got a little behind with the blog post from the previous week.

This is week 20 - which was Christmas week, and we'll catch up on Sunday with the subjects from this past week.

Day 133 - Andy

This is Andy, my Step-Sister-in-Law.  We celebrated Christmas with my husband's family a few days early.

"Family time, and lots of it," Andy answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in her life right now.

I asked Andy if she's recently performed an act of kindness and she explained that she delivered dinner to a family whose mom had recently passed away.   Andy takes turns with a few other families and provides meals to this family, who lost their mother so very young in life.

When I asked Andy if she has a personal mission statement, Andy answered, "it's pretty simple; to be a good mom, good wife, good daughter, and a good friend."

I asked Andy something about herself which she would consider to be a success, and she could have easily answered that she's successful at being a good mom, good wife, good daughter and a good friend.  Andy answered, "being able to juggle home, child, work and fun."  Andy feels like she's able to somehow able to fit it all in, and still manages to have enough time for fun.

Thank you, Andy!

Day 134 - Spencer

This is Spencer.  When I asked Spencer about the happiest thing happening in his life right now, he first said that it was a tough question.  He then answered that he was looking forward to hosting a Christmas get-together with a bunch of his orphaned friends who don't have family in the area.

Spencer's recent act of kindness is that he helped a friend get a job!

"To feed people and promote equality," Spencer said, is his life's purpose.  I told Spencer about Kate, who was a subject just a few days prior and explained how much their life's purposes were aligned.  I met Spencer less than a block away from where I had met Kate, so I hope their paths will cross and they can join forces in doing the great work they're doing. Spencer used the phrase, "unorganized philanthropy" to explain the unconventional methods he's employed in helping to make sure people are fed.  I love meeting and learning more about people like Spencer, Kate, and all of the other do-gooders we've met in this project.  They inspire me to want to do more, and to aim higher.

"I'm still standing," Spencer said, is something about himself which he would consider to be a success.

Thank you, Spencer!

Day 135 - Michelle

This is Michelle.  We met at the bus stop...yes, that bus stop. The one that gives me so much grief!  Again, I was challenged by the spot and failed to do Michelle the justice she deserved.  She reminds me of a classic movie star, but with modern style.

We only had time for two quick questions before the bus took her away.

"My new boyfriend," Michelle answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in her life right now.

Michelle said that her life's purpose "is to contribute to the greater whole."

Thank you, Michelle!

Day 136 - Leslie

This is Leslie. We work together.  It was Christmas Eve and although we got off work early, I was concerned about trying to find a subject on the holiday.  I'm so glad Leslie agreed to be the person of the day!

When I asked Leslie the happiest thing happening in her life right now, she answered with a huge smile, "I met a guy."  We've only worked together for a little while, but long it's been enough for me to know that he's one lucky guy!

Leslie's recent act of kindness is that she donated to her friend's fundraiser to help her friend meet her financial goal so that she'll be able to study abroad.

"To give back," Leslie answered, when I asked if she has a personal mission statement or life's purpose.

When I asked Leslie something about herself which she would consider to be a success, she answered, "I'm motivated!"  I see a bright future for Leslie.  She is motivated and determined and because of that, I often forget that she's still quite young. She has the maturity of someone at least a decade older.

Wishing you lots of success, Leslie!  Thank you!

Day 137 - Janet

This is Janet.  She's a friend of my friend, Debbie,  and now she's my friend too.

"It's Christmas and my family is all together," Janet answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in her life right now.  Janet said she's having a great time with her kids and grandkids, and the icing on the cake is that her son just graduated art school and already has a job offer in his field!

This picture was taken on Christmas day.  If you've been following along for a while, you probably remember me mentioning Project Brown Bag.  A few years ago at a Christmas gathering, our friend Debbie presented us all with brown bags.  We thought she had violated our rule that we were no longer exchanging gifts - but when we opened the bags, they weren't gifts, but rather, they were sack lunches.  Debbie went on to explain her vision that we would all carry around "brown bags" to give to homeless people and people in need.  She hoped that through our efforts, our other friends and our friend's friends would also do the same and that our little ripple could create a big wave of help to people who need it.  We also get together a few times a year in a more organized effort to distribute brown bags.

This was our third year spending Christmas day together, distributing brown bags, hot cocoa, soup, coats, blankets, hats and beanies to homeless people in Portland.   Janet and her daughter and granddaughters joined again this year, and knowing that Janet had just spent the past few hours handing out food and clothing to homeless people, I was well aware of her recent act of kindness.  But, I also know Janet's beautiful heart and I knew she must have performed another act of kindness.

Oh, and before I tell you about that - Janet also organizes a big canned food drive at Halloween.  She's the Clark Griswold of Halloween and she goes all out  decorating her house.  Practically the entire town swings by Janet's house to check out the halloween decorations and the annual dance performance of "Thriller."  In return, all of the visitors bring canned food which Janet collects and then donates to the Food Bank.  The woman is pretty amazing!

Janet's other recent act of kindness is that she struck up a conversation with a woman at the mall who was in line with Janet while they were waiting their turn to purchase Joe's Carmel Corn.  They started talking about how much they loved the popcorn and how long they had been customers.  The woman could only afford to treat herself to a small size, so after the woman made her purchase, Janet then secretly bought her another bag and proceeded to try to sneak it to the woman in the mall.  Janet wasn't stealth enough, and the woman caught her trying to slip her the popcorn. The woman was so thrilled and touched by Janet's kindness that she hugged her.  Janet, in turn, was completely touched by the woman's hug - she felt like she was actually the recipient of the act of kindness and not the other way around.

When I asked Janet if she had a personal mission statement, she answered, "to make life yummy!"  Janet explained this is a saying of the Sweet Potato Queens.  Until talking with Janet, I didn't know that the Sweet Potato Queens are a national organization with local chapters.  I just thought it was something Janet started in little ol' Battle Ground, Washington.

Janet explained to me that when she was in school, the girls were weighed and measured and then selected for the Portland Rose Festival princess court based on those measurements.  That sounded horribly superficial when she explained it, but back then, she said there were weight limitations on parade floats, so there was actually a reason why the girls could only be a certain weight.  Janet didn't fit the criteria and wasn't considered for the Rose Festival court.

The experience stuck with Janet and she decided she didn't like it, and she wanted to do something about it.  Janet said, "we're always waiting and waiting and waiting...waiting for someone to ask us to the prom, waiting to get married, or waiting for someone to tell you you're good enough to be a queen."  Janet decided that any woman who wanted to be a queen, could be a queen!  Janet needed her queens to be seen, so she entered a float in the Battle Ground Harvest Days parade, and filled her float with any woman who wanted to be in the parade.  They were all queens!

After doing some research, Janet discovered the Sweet Potato Queens and realized her ideas were in line with the mission of the national organization, and now she heads the local chapter of Sweet Potato Queens.  I love how Janet is always building up other people!   We all need someone in our lives like Janet - someone who tells you you're a queen and then builds you a float to ride in the parade.  And, if we're not fortunate enough to have a Janet in our lives, I hope we learn to be like Janet by building people up and helping to coronate anyone who wants to be a queen!

When I asked Janet something about herself which she would consider to be a success, Janet answered, "My kids - all three of them."

Thank you so much, Janet!  You are a good person and I'm glad to know you!

Day 138 - Mason

This is Mason.  He's the son of my friend, Anne.  Mason is such a handsome young man and I'm so mad at myself I totally blew the lighting on this.   Luckily, I know I know that someday down the road, I can get a do-over.

"Having a long relationship with my girlfriend," Mason answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.   Mason is in college and still dating his high school sweetheart!

I asked Mason if he's recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness.   Mason's fraternity just raised $2000 for ALS/The Steve Gleason Foundation.  On the receiving end, his grandmother gifted him with plane tickets so he could fly to Florida to watch his brother, who plays football for Southern Oregon University,  play and win the NAIA football championships!

I asked Mason if he had a personal mission statement or about his life's purpose.  Mason answered that right now, his purpose in life is "to get good grades, graduate, family, and success."

Something about himself which Mason considers to be a success, is that he's maintaining a 3.5 GPA in college!

Wishing you the best, Mason!  Thank you!

Day 139 - Matthew

This is Matthew.  We met outside of a strip mall.

The happiest thing happening in his life right now is that he had just found out that his sister and nephew are moving back home!

I asked Matthew if he's recently performed an act of kindness and he explained he tries to be giving.  He had recently given money to a homeless person.

"Live today like it's your last day," Matthew answered, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement.

One thing about himself which Matthew considers to be a success, is that he's able to connect with people and make friends easily.

Thank you, Matthew!

Here's a summary of the personal mission statements and life's purposes of the subjects from this week:

• To be a good mom, good wife, good daughter, and a good friend."
• To feed people and promote equality
• To give back
• To make life yummy!
• To get good grades, graduate, family, and success. 
• Live today like it's your last day

Thank you!  See you very soon when we catch up with this week's subjects!

365 More People Pictures - Week 19

Hello! We're finished with week 19 of The 365 More People Pictures Project!

I've reached a decision that my new objective is to continue the project until I complete a 1000-day streak of taking a picture of a person every day.  Some days, I've felt like I could just continue doing this until I'm a little old lady, and some days I've felt like I needed to be done. Now.

1000 days.  I can do that.

Day 19 - Harold

This is Harold.  We met in downtown Vancouver.  Harold and his brother were in town to volunteer for the Vancouver Winter Brewfest.  Having just finished their volunteer duties, Harold and his brother were on a quick scavenger hunt of downtown, in search of coasters from a few breweries.  Harold's brother collects them. Harold agreed to let me take his picture while his brother circled the block in search of breweries and coasters!

"Being out with my brother," Harold answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Harold's profession has been an act of kindness.  Harold works as an ICU nurse and he's retiring soon.  If I remember correctly, he is now probably officially retired in the week since we met.

When I asked Harold if he had a personal mission statement or life's purpose, he joked that it was to annoy his brother.  He revised his life's purpose to be, "to annoy as many people as possible."  (what a character!)

At that point, his brother re-appeared from his walk around the block and Harold said, "he really is my brother, you know."  I think he read the look on my face that I was trying to determine if they were actually brothers, or if he was calling him "brother" as in, a close friend.   They're actually both!   Harold explained that their mother is Korean and their father is Irish.  He joked that instead of the brothers receiving an equal blend of traits from each parent, Harolds's Brother takes after their mom, and Harold takes after their dad.  Their physical appearance my differ, but the brothers are so funny and quite the comedic duo and they are definitely two peas in a hilarious pod.

I asked Harold something about himself which he would consider to be a success and he answered, "surviving 4 combat tours in the Army."

Thank you, Harold and brother!

Day 127 - David

This is David.  He was on break from his job as a cook when we met.

"Football season," David answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

I asked David if he's recently performed an act of kindness.  David explained that he does small things every day.  His current roommate hasn't been able to pay rent in a while but David is letting him stay while he gets back on his feet again.  David also told me something that brought tears to my eyes.  There's a homeless man who hangs out by David's work and David often invites him over so that the man can have a place to shower, get warm, and have a meal.  David is a very generous person.

"To be a good person to everyone around me," David answered, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or life's purpose.  David is living his mission.  Thinking about David's kindness as I write this, again, I'm overcome with emotion just thinking about what a good person he is.

"My skills as a cook," David answered, when I asked something about himself which he would consider to be a success. David has been a cook for 17 years!

Thank you, David.

Day 128 - Nicholas

This is Nicholas.  We met at a crosswalk as we were about to cross the street.

I asked Nicholas the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he answered, "my relationship with my sister."  Nicholas is helping his sister through a situation right now and it's strengthening their relationship.

I asked Nicholas if he's either performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness.  He said he's been both on the giving and receiving end.  Nicholas explained that he has a really good group of friends who have always been there to listen and care, and he's always there for them in return.

"I want to make art," Nicholas answered, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or life's purpose.

"My sense of humor," Nicholas replied, when I asked him something about himself he would consider to be a success.

Thank you, Nicholas!

Day 129 - Matt

This is Matt.  We met in the parking lot of Starbucks.  As I was going to my car, Matt approached to ask me  if I had jumper cables.  I told him I was pretty certain that I had them in my trunk and was happy to see that I did indeed have jumper cables and could be of assistance. Matt offered to pay me for my time and I told him I didn't need any money, but I asked if I could take his picture for my project when we were finished.  Matt agreed.  We got his SUV started in no time!

"My son was just born 1 month ago," Matt answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

When I asked Matt if he's recently performed an act of kindness, a specific example wasn't coming to mind but he tries to be kind all the time. He's also particularly helpful to his co-workers.

I asked Matt if he has a personal mission statement or life's purpose and now that his son is born, his life's purpose is, "to be a good dad and provide for my family, and to make sure my son is proud of me."

Something about himself which Matt considers to be a success is that he's a skilled craftsman, and his ability as a carpenter.

Thank you, Matt and best wishes to you and your family!

Day 130 - Bobby

This is Bobby at Portland Shoe Repair.  We met his friend, Marc, back on day 312 of the first project when I had just peeped my head into the Shoe Repair shop to ask if I could take someone's picture for the project.

Thursday, Marc and I just happened to run into each other on the sidewalk so we stopped to visit for a moment.    Not having found a subject for the day, I asked Marc which one of his friends or relatives would be in the project.  Marc laughed and walked me into the shoe repair shop and pretty much just informed Bobby that he was going to be the person of the day.  Bobby agreed.

It was so cool watching Bobby work.  He continued to work on a pair of shoes as we talked and I loved seeing all of the old machinery, combined with Bobby's careful skill, as he attached a new heel to a beautiful pair of booties.

"The girl I met," Bobby answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.  It was so cute - Marc confirmed from the background that she was a keeper.

Bobby's act of kindness would  take place the following day, as he was going to go cook for the homeless at his church.

"To treat others how you want to be treated," Bobby answered, when I asked his personal mission statement or life's purpose.  Bobby had given this question serious consideration and he explained that he was also in the process of writing a mission statement for the shop as well.

When I asked Bobby something about himself which he would consider to be a success, I was surprised that he couldn't/wouldn't answer.   I figured he would answer about his success in running the shoe repair shop.  I was watching him with my own two eyes as he made the process of attaching a new heel look like more like art than a repair.  Bobby thought about the question and then had to ask Marc for his input.  Marc quickly supplied an answer.  "He has a big group of friends who loves him."  Marc then continued on, telling Bobby that his circle of friends loves him, and they know he loves them in return.  It was all pretty touching to see a couple of guys talk like this.  They're good people here.

Thank you, Bobby and Marc!

Day 131 - Kate

This is Kate.  We met outside of Sam's as she was just about to hop on her bike to leave.

I asked Kate the happiest thing happening in her life right now and she answered that she finally has a job where she can go to and leave and she actually feels less stressed than when she arrived.  Her job makes her feel "sunnier and happier!"

I asked Kate if she's either performed an act of kindness or if she's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness.  On the receiving end - Kate's housemate found a caring way in which to suggest to Kate that on her days off, she really needed to find a way to actually take a day off. Her housemate said it in such a way that Kate took her suggestion to heart and implemented the change.  For some reason, the roommate said it in such a way that it clicked for Kate.  The housemate was caring but not judgmental.

On the giving side, Kate is a volunteer for "Food not Bombs," which serves food a few times a week to anyone who is in need of a meal.  You can learn more about Food Not Bomb's on the national website, or here on Portland's Facebook Page.  What a great group of caring people who are making a difference!

As I'm writing this, I've realized I didn't really get a shortened or condensed mission statement or life's purpose from Kate.  Kate and I just talked and I loved hearing everything she had to share about herself and her life, and the work she's doing to help feed others.  If I were to write a condensed mission statement on Kate's behalf, it would be something like, "to share food to nourish the body, and to share kindness to nourish the spirit."   This is my quick, impromptu mission statement on Kate's behalf, after only having met her for just a few minutes.  When I asked Kate if she had a personal mission statement or her life's purpose, Kate responded:

I'm a parent.

I'm a daughter.

I am a volunteer for Food not Bombs, to make sure people have enough to eat.

I bring food with love, food is love, food is justice, food is sharing, food is sacred.

Meeting Kate for just a few minutes, truly nourished my spirits.  She sees food and the sharing and distribution of it, as love and kindness.  I think anyone who ever meets Kate leaves her with a full belly and/or a full heart.

I asked Kate something about herself which she considers to be a success and she answered, "I've come a really long way in 10 years of feeling comfortable in my own skin."   Kate now knows when she's operating outside herself and she's able to get herself back in check.  Kate feels that as a Mother, it's something she needs to do in order to be present as a Mom.

Thank you, Kate!

Day 132 - Alexandra

This is Alexandra.

We met, for the second time, at a Christmas party hosted by our mutual friend, Shauna.  A few hours into her party, Shauna asked if I had found a subject for the day.  I was in a room full of interesting people and had so many great subjects to choose from!   Shauna suggested Alexandra, and Alexandra agreed.

Alexandra is just a beautiful person, inside and out.  I remembered meeting her at last year's party because she's the type of person who leaves a lasting impression...truly, just a very sweet person.

This picture was actually an in-between picture.  Alexandra was right in-between "poses" and I wasn't quite ready, but when I saw how beautiful Alexandra looked, I quickly snapped the picture and hoped I had caught her in time.  Sometimes, it's the in-between which is the most special, but we can get so focused on what's next, in life and photography,  that we miss the in-betweens.

"I'm in love with a wonderful man," Alexandra answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in her life right now.  I loved hearing Alexandra's answer because I remembered meeting her guy at last year's party. You could just tell they had something special, even though they were just a few weeks into dating.

I asked Alexandra if she's either performed an act of kindness or if she's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness.  On the receiving end, Alexandra explained that she received a beautiful email from an old friend who reached out just to tell her that she missed her, and catch her up on her life.

I asked Alexandra if she had a personal mission statement or a life's purpose and she answered with a quote by the Dalai Lama - "Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible."

"I am becoming increasingly patient," Alexandra answered, when I asked her something about herself which she would consider to be a success.  Alexandra is also a successful writer and you can learn more about her, and yourself,  on her blog.

Thank you, Alexandra!

Here's the summary of mission statements and life's purpose of the subjects from this week. (and one shortened contribution from me.)

• To annoy as many people as possible.
• To be a good person to everyone around me.
• I want to make art.
• To be a good dad and provide for my family, and to make sure my son is proud of me.
• To treat others how you want to be treated,
• To share food to nourish the body, and to share kindness to nourish the spirit.
• Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.

Thank you for following along another week, and thank you to each and every subject in this project!  We appreciate you!

Wishing you lots of love over the holidays!

365 More People Pictures Project - Week 18

Hello! Welcome to week 18!  Thank you for following along.

I just finished reading "Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore," by Robin Sloan.  It's definitely worth checking out!   One layer of the story is about a secret society of code-cracking book-readers and as part of the secret society, you will be expected to write a "Codex Vitae."  Basically, the "Codex Vitae" is the book of your life or everything you've learned in your life.

I had the realization that through this project, we've compiled sort of a collective Codex Vitae.  The answers given by all of the subjects in this project, reveals a common thread which sews us all together.  When broken down to the most simple and basic elements, we all desire happiness.  We all want to be good people.  We all want to do good things.  The pursuit of those three objectives is what fills the pages of our own individual Codex Vitaes.

What would be in your Codex Vitae?

Day 119 - Andrew

This is Andrew.  "Good health and a great relationship with my girlfriend," Andrew answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Andrew was the recipient of an act of kindness the other day when his car wouldn't start.  He didn't have jumper cables, but a cable-packing stranger stopped to help jump-start his car.

"Do the best you can to help those in need," Andrew answered, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or if he could make one up on the spot.

I asked Andrew something about himself which he would consider to be a success and he answered, "my determination."

Day 120 - Nate

This is Nate.

"A consistent job," Nate answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.  Nate just moved to Portland two months ago so he's happy to be working.

Nate's recent act of kindness is that he donated food to a food drive, and he bought dinner for some friends.

Nate's impromptu personal mission statement: "to be kind, honest, and loyal at all times."

Something Nate considers to be a success, is that he finished the Seattle to Portland bike ride!

Day 121 - The Teacher

This is "The Teacher."  I spotted him as he was parking and locking up his bike.

I asked Teacher the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he answered, "work, girlfriend and that I'm employed."

Teacher has recently performed an act of kindness, but he's not able to share. (Simply being a teacher and shaping our future is an act of kindness.)  I'm sure Teacher's act of kindness must remain confidential, but one interesting thing I've observed in this project is that so many people are hesitant to tell others about their acts of kindness - almost as though telling someone will devalue their good deed.

I understand people's reluctance  but I think it's ok to spread love and positivity.  When people performed that act of kindness, they did so altruistically and they didn't expect someone to come along and ask them if they've performed an act of kindness.  They were genuine in their kindness.  Telling people after the fact is ok, right?  Our social media feeds can be flooded with so much negativity and bad news...I just want to spread the message that there are good people out there, really good people.  Maybe by hearing of the kind acts of strangers, we'll start absorbing and spreading more positivity.

"To be happy, help others, and be a good person," Teacher answered, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or his life's purpose.

I asked Teacher something about himself which he would consider to be a success and he answered, "being a teacher."

After we were finished with the picture and interview, Teacher said that he felt like he didn't give good answers because I surprised him and caught him off guard. He was certain he had better answers to give. I was laughing to myself, thinking that Teacher just got a very good reminder of what his students must feel like when he calls on them in class!

Day 122 - Jeff

This is Jeff and he was the second teacher in a row!

I actually know Jeff.  We just happened to run into each other at Starbucks after work.  Jeff has been a customer at my work for a few years.  I know this picture looks like he's exhausted.  That's part of the reason I liked it and chose it over the others I took.  In real life, Jeff has always been enthusiastic, energetic, and so nice!  We bumped into each other at Starubucks after work.  Traffic was horrible that day.  Jeff was sitting at a table and grading papers. He said he often stops there on his way from school to home. He's able to do some work and he also avoids wasting time sitting in traffic.  The other pictures I had taken of Jeff were of his usual happy self.  I liked Jeff's happy-faced pictures, but I  liked this tired picture because it caused me to think about how hard our teachers work, even when they're not in class.

I asked Jeff the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he answered, "watching my kids play sports," and just spending time with them in general.  Jeff's kids are at that age when their time is spread between activities and friends, and he's happy that his children still want to spend time with their Dad.

I asked Jeff if he's recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness.  We talked that his profession is an act of kindness.  Jeff knows when a student could benefit most from either giving them a nudge or when they need to be given a break.  Jeff feels like he experiences kindness every day and he remarked how sometimes even the smallest compliment from other teachers, parents, or strangers can have a positive impact.

When I asked Jeff if he had a personal mission statement, he told me a story about why he named his son Peter.  Jeff is a Spiderman fan and his son is named after Peter Parker.  Jeff loves the quote, "with great power comes great responsibility."  His dream for his son is that he'll grow and become a good citizen.  Jeff's personal mission statement, and also his dream for his son is, "to somehow make a difference."  I know Jeff is already making a difference in this world.

When I asked Jeff something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered, "I'm not the best teacher, but I'm a good teacher."  Jeff added he thinks he's a good dad too!

We continued to talk a while after we were finished with the picture and interview.  I told Jeff that I've wondered what kids/students could do with a project like this. Obviously, I wouldn't want students to approach strangers, but Jeff thought it would still be interesting to see what kids/students would do and learn by interviewing their friends and family.  I would love to see something like that!

Thank you, Jeff!

Day 123 - Doug

This is Doug. We met just walking down the street.  It was during the onset of a crazy windstorm and very few people were out. I was lucky to find Doug and that he agreed to let me take his picture.

I asked Doug the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he let out a laugh, then answered, "anticipation."

Doug wasn't mean or unfriendly, but when I asked him the second question, he then said, "I'm going to leave now."  Doug was done.  He just wanted to go read.  At first I was disappointed and my feeler was hurt,  but then I reminded myself that I was really lucky that anyone was willing to even stop long enough to let me take their picture.

Day 124 - Blake

This is Blake.  Blake. Blake. Blake.  Could he be a model, or what?

I had just left my hair stylist and had just been complaining to her how surprisingly challenging it is to find a subject in that area, considering it's such a dense and popular part of Portland. I always end up finding someone great, but I've been surprised at how hard I've had to work at it.  As soon as I left her salon and walked around the corner, I spotted Blake.  He was the first person I saw, and I decided to just go for it.

Blake agreed to let me take his picture and as soon as he was in front of the camera and as I was looking at him through the viewfinder, I was like - WOW!  Who is this guy?  I felt so cheesy as the words fell out of my mouth and I asked, "are you a model?"  Blake laughed and said that he wasn't a model.  He should be!

I'm always extremely critical of myself.  In attempt to learn more about photography, I follow dozens of photographers and view thousands of images a week.  Although I know it's what I need to do to improve, the downside of this is that I'm constantly comparing my pictures to the work of others.  It can be, at times, demoralizing, defeating and discouraging.

If I were to confess these feelings of inadequacy to one of my friends, I know they would tell me that it's unrealistic to compare anything I've ever done to the work of a professional photographer who has years of experience and/or formal education, proper lighting and equipment, and a team of hair and make-up artists and assistants.

I have only 490 days of experience, no lighting, no training or education, an entry-level DSLR and until recently, only the two kit lenses that came with the camera, and usually only a few seconds or minutes to shoot a stranger I just met on the street. (and all the awkwardness that comes with it.)

To offset the utter feelings of hopelessness and inadequacy I get when I see so many amazing and talented artists,  I try to balance the images I consume in a week and take in both styled/studio images, and raw street photography and documentary photography.  Somewhere in the middle of all of that, I think is where I'll find my "style."

I know there's still several things I did wrong with this picture, but seeing Blake's picture gives me hope.  I like Blake's picture.  It's still really very easy for me to take a bad picture of a beautiful person but I'm able to look at Blake's picture and say, "that's a good picture."  I know a pro, or anyone with 491 days of photography experience, would point out 14 errors or ways in which the image could have been improved, but for now - I feel a major sense of accomplishment in that I've gotten to a point where I can say, "that's a good picture," about a picture I've taken.  I've liked and even loved several of the pictures I've taken, but there are very few about which I've been able to say, "that's a good picture."   As I'm typing this, I'm thinking - am I really sure about this? Is it a good picture, or am I confusing a good picture with the fact that I think that Blake is just a beautiful person?  I'm not so sure now.  I just wish I could meet Blake again and take 1,247 more pictures so I could figure it out!

I asked Blake the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he answered, "opportunities to play music."  Blake is a singer/song-writer.

Blake's recent act of kindness is that he found someone's wallet and returned it with everything still intact.

Blake's impromptu personal mission statement: "keep working at it."

"I'm not a complete asshole," Blake answered, when I asked him something about himself which he considers to be a success. I laughed at Blake's answer and something tells me that he's far from being even just a partial asshole.

Day 125 - Linda Bea

This is Linda Bea.  She's an awesome girl! I was fortunate enough to meet Linda Bea a couple years ago.  When you hear Linda's laugh, you can't help but feel happy and you find yourself laughing harder than normal because Linda's laugh is so contagious.

Linda and I, along with several other women, modeled for a photoshoot for Sweet Spot Skirts yesterday.  Sweet Spot Skirts are so awesome and they fit everyone from a size 0 to size 26.  Linda and I are models for the size NOT-zero.

Linda and I met a few years ago, also at a photoshoot and it was the first time I had modeled.   Linda was a pro by then.  I can't even begin to tell you how stressed I was.  I wasn't feeling so great about myself because of the weight I had gained.   I'm so uncomfortable having my picture taken by even my very best friends, but I agreed to model because the skirts are one of the greatest things you can put on your body and they help you to feel confident when you're working out.  I also adore and admire the owner/designer and if my not-little body helps other women discover a Sweet Spot Skirt, any temporary discomfort I felt while having my picture taken is worth it because I know that women will love these skirts!  I know it's hard to believe that something like a skirt can be life-changing, but seriously - it is!)

When I met Linda for the first time, she was as cool as a cucumber.  She acted like it was no big deal that we were about to be photographed with a bunch of very young, beautiful, fit, thin, and amazing ladies! I tried my best to absorb Linda's coolness, but when that wasn't working - Linda totally killed me with laughter.  I ended up having the best time ever!  Linda is a sweetheart and so dang funny! Since meeting Linda, there have been a few times when I've thought of her laugh to help me chill out during a stressful moment.

We had already been shooting for a few hours yesterday when I asked Linda if I could take her picture for the project.  Believe me, this modeling business is hard work and I know taking one more picture was probably not on the top of Linda's to-do list, but she agreed.  We did the interview after we were finished with the real shoot.  When went outside for me to take the picture,  I couldn't figure out what was wrong with my camera.  Then it dawned on me.  I had taken the battery out to charge before heading to the real photoshoot and I was so nervous about being in front of the camera for once, that I totally forgot to put the battery back in.  I was so bummed I didn't have my good camera.  I wanted the opportunity to take portrait of the beautiful Miss Linda Bea.  I was stressed and upset with myself for forgetting,  but Linda was so cool.  She just let me take her picture with my iPhone.  Once again, Linda taught me - just be cool. It's ok...just roll with what life gives you.

I asked Linda the happiest thing happening in her life right now and she said that she's happy she's going to spend New Year's Eve with her Sister.  They have a tradition to always celebrate New Year's Eve together.

I asked Linda if she's recently performed an act of kindness or if she's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness. Linda is a nurse, so she performs acts of kindness daily.  I'm certain Linda must be one amazing nurse!  She's just a fabulous person!  Linda explained that recently, an anonymous co-worker gifted her with three weeks of paid leave because Linda had been taking off a lot of time in order to be with her ill father.  Linda's Father isn't doing well and she said that he's near end-of-life.  Linda said her Father has had a great life and he's a great man.  Being the recipient of someone's act of kindness has inspired Linda to dedicate 2015 to paying it forward.  (See, I told you she was amazing.)

I asked Linda if she has a personal mission statement or life's purpose.  Linda's impromptu mission statement:  "Find happiness, the glass is half full, and laugh often & hard."   These are more than just words for Linda.  She lives it, and just being around her helps you to live it too.

"That I'm comfortable where I am at age 51.  I'm happy being me," Linda answered, when I asked something about herself which she would consider to be a success.  This is one of my favorite answers.

Linda Bea, you are awesome!  Thank you!

Here's the summary of the personal mission statements and life's purposes of the subjects from this week:

• Do the best you can to help those in need.
• To be kind, honest and loyal at all times.
• To be happy, help others, and be a good person.
• To somehow make a difference
• Keep working at it.
• Find happiness, the glass is half full, and laugh often & hard.
• Thank you to every subject in this project! I appreciate you and your kindness and willingness to share yourself with us.

Thank you to each and every subject in this project!  Thank you for sharing yourself with us and please don't hesitate to e-mail me if you would like a copy of your picture.

365 More People Pictures - Week 17

Hello! Thank you for reading week 17 of The 365 More People Pictures project.

If this is your first visit, 483 days ago, I challenged myself to take a picture of a person, every single day, for an entire year.  I successfully completed the first challenge, The 365 Day People Picture Project.

When the first project was over and it came to day 366, I just couldn't stop!  I was compelled to keep going, so here we are - in year two, The 365 More People Pictures project.

I'm not a photographer.  I got my very first DSLR, and having only taken just a few pictures with my new camera,  I then dove head-first into this project in attempt to teach myself photography and hopefully provide content for this blog.  The 365 Day Project quickly became the whole blog, but I do have intentions to diversify some day.

I don't stockpile photos.  Each picture is taken fresh daily.  If you'd like to follow along daily, my Instagram is @missellanea.

I don't know what the future holds for this project.  The other day, I considered that perhaps I should go for 1000 straight days.  That's a streak I could feel proud of.  My photography hasn't improved as much as I would like and I know in order to improve, I need to take classes and surround myself with people from whom I can learn.  This project has been excellent though, in that it has taught me how much I don't know!  Does that make sense?

There have been days when I've felt completely embarrassed and ridiculous and like I should just give up immediately, but I just can't stop.  It's become a compulsion.  A huge chunk of joy would be ripped from my life if I were to stop this project.  Not only would I miss the photography part of the project, but mainly, I would miss people.  This project has forced me out of my own little world.  I'm actually a shy person, but the project gives me reason to reach out and connect with amazing people I would otherwise have never met.

For now, I'm just enjoying the experience of meeting great people, and hope you are too!  Thank you for reading!

Day 112 - Rebecca and Travis

This is Rebecca and Travis.  They were snuggled up, keeping warm at the bus stop.

I asked the couple the happiest thing happening in their lives right now.  Rebecca is happy to be starting school, and Travis is happy that his roommates are moving.

"Doing chores for my roommates," Travis answered, when I asked if he's recently performed an act of kindness. Rebecca was having trouble thinking of an act of kindness which she's performed.  When people have trouble thinking of a recent act of kindness, I can sometimes detect a hint of disappointment. I was picking up on that vibe from Rebecca, but I also gathered that she was a sweet and kind person...she was just having trouble remembering something something specific.  I definitely don't want people to feel bad about themselves so I nudged her a little, reminding her that it was a big act of kindness for her to agree to let me take her picture, especially in the cold!   Rebecca agreed, and also added that she made pancakes for Travis.

I asked Rebecca and Travis if they have a personal mission statement or life's purpose.  Rebecca answered, "I want to be happy. That's my life's goal."  Travis answered, "avoiding mediocracy."

When I asked the couple something about themselves which they would consider to be a success, Rebecca answered, "that I manage to stay happy even though people try to get me down."  Stay true to yourself, Rebecca!

Travis answered, "I know what I want and it makes it easier to do stuff and not let bullshit get in the way."  I'm inspired by people who know what they want and go after it!  Good job, Travis.

Day 113 - Sarah

This is Sarah.  We met at the bus stop.

The happiest thing happening in Sarah's life right now is that she's getting a new apartment!  It's her first place!

Sarah's recent act of kindness is that she helped out her sister who had forgotten her keys.  Sarah retrieved the keys and took them to her sister.

"To be happy and to try to make others happy," Sarah answered, when I asked if she has a personal mission statement.

"I have my dream job," Sara said, when I asked something about herself which she would consider to be a success.

Wishing you happiness in your new nest, Sarah!

Day 114 - Alex and Nathan

This is Alex (left) and Nathan (right.)  They are two very special people who just appeared in my path after leaving work.  I worked late on Tuesday and I was completely stressed because I still had a lot of work I needed to get done from home.  As I was walking out the door, I had the realization that I also still needed to go out in search of a subject in the freezing cold.  As I got just a few footsteps from my car, Alex and Nathan just happened to come walking down the sidewalk.  I was still in work-mode in my head and my camera wasn't even ready, but I know by now that when someone appears in my path like this, I need to ask them for their picture and I know I'm going to be in for a treat.

When I asked the men if I could take their picture, they were so friendly and so cheery.  I knew I had  just met a couple of really nice people.

I asked Alex and Nathan the happiest thing happening in their lives right now.  "Meeting new people," Alex answered.  "Galloping around to "The Ballad of Mr. Steak,"" Nathan replied.  "Am I going to have to google this?" I asked.  We laughed and Nathan explained it was a song, and yes, I should google it.  With a name like, "The Ballad of Mr. Steak," of course I googled it the minute I got settled at home.  Are you curious? You can check out the video below.  It is so goofy!

I asked Alex and Nathan if they've either recently performed an act of kindness or if they've been on the receiving end of an act of kindness.  Alex was the recipient of an act of kindness. He explained that he recently received a letter in the mail from someone who basically outlined to Alex, everything for which they were thankful.  Alex was surprised and touched.  I don't know if it's because of the holidays, but I've noticed a lot of people are reaching out to one another with good old fashioned, hand-written letters.  Remember those?

Alex's story reminded Nathan that he had performed an act of kindness.  Nathan started receiving e-mails from an elderly man who was e-mailing him by mistake.  As busy as life can be, it would have been very easy for Nathan to ignore the e-mails, either purposely or accidentally, but he wrote back to the man explaining he had the wrong e-mail address. The man was appreciative of Nathan taking the time to let him know.

When I asked the guys if they have a personal mission statement or life's purpose, Nathan immediately answered, "What can art do, who should it serve, and how can it affect the world it inhabits, above and beyond negotiating the rise and fall of its meager share in the luxury commodity market?"   I asked Nathan about the source.  Nathan explained that a professor wrote this question on the chalkboard years ago and it's stuck with him ever since.  It's a powerful question.  (I should have asked Nathan for clarification on how to punctuate this statement and if his Professor posed three separate questions, or one big whammy, the way I've presented it here.)

"Experience everything, forgive everyone," Alex supplied as his personal mission statement. Life is as simple and as complicated as that.

When I asked the men something about themselves which they would consider to be a success, Alex answered, "always moving forward."  Nathan answered, "transforming our experiences of every day life to give it a different layer of meaning or significance."  I told Nathan that his answer reminds me of the book, "The Leader Who Had No Title," by Robin Sharma.  The example I gave was that of a gas station attendant.  A person who pumps gas isn't just a person who pumps gas.  Their job is significant in that they get people moving and going where they need to go.  A friendly gas station attendant can help set the tone for the day.  Nathan's answer, to me, is about finding value and placing importance on everything and everybody. It's about perspective, and how we can choose to see things differently.

After we were finished with the interview, I asked for one more picture, just to make sure I had a good one.  You know how your nose starts to run in the cold?  I think it was Alex who joked that he needed to make sure he didn't have any snot bubbles in the picture.  I confessed that I was worried I had some too and then told the guys I don't know how to edit snot yet.  They said it was ok to leave any snot and that it would capture our experience more authentically.  Luckily, we all seemed to have our snot situations under control! It was in joking around that I had the increasingly-familiar realization that just a few moments prior, Alex and Nathan were just a couple of strangers walking down the street, but within moments, they became more like friends.

Alex and Nathan's sincere kindness and genuine encouragement of the project left me feeling renewed.  I was thankful I had the good fortune of meeting such special people.

Thank you, guys!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lRV-1THlL6A

Day 115 - Whisper

This is Whisper.  She works at a convenience store I frequent on my way home. Her nickname suits her perfectly and now I'll always think of her as Whisper.

"I'm moving soon," Whisper answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in her life right now.

When I asked Whisper if she's recently performed an act of kindness, or if she's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness, she was having trouble thinking of an answer.  Just then, a customer came in so I went to the back to get a cup of coffee so that she could help her customer.  After the customer left and I approached the counter again, I asked if she had thought of an answer.  She hadn't.  Again, not wanting her to feel bad, I assured her that every time I've ever been in, she's always been friendly and kind to me.  I'm sure she's that way to all of her customers.

"I'm big on Karma, what comes around, goes around," Whisper answered, when I asked if she had a personal mission statement or life's purpose.

I asked Whisper something about herself which she would consider to be a success and she answered, "I grew up in foster care and beat the odds. Nobody expected me to graduate."  I got a little teary-eyed when Whisper opened up about about her life.  I was happy for her, and proud of her.

After we were finished, Whisper and I talked a little longer and we discovered it's quite possible that we have relatives who know each other's relatives.

Whisper, I'm wishing you a lifetime of odds-beating, success and happiness.

Day 116 - Big Ern McCracken

This is Big Ern McCracken.   I actually know McCracken but it's been years since I've seen him.  He was standing outside of Sam's and I didn't even recognize him when I first asked if I could take his picture.

"Watching my nephew grow up," McCracken answered, when I asked about the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

McCracken's recent act of kindness is that he held the door open for an elderly lady at the grocery store.

I asked McCracken if he had a personal mission statement or life's purpose and he answered, "to grow and experience life with as many friends and family as possible."

"I overcame drug and alcohol addiction in 2003," McCracken answered, when I asked something about himself which he would consider to be a success.

It was great running into McCracken again. In a strange way, we learned more about each other in just a few minutes than we had known about each other back when our group of friends hung out!

Day 117 - Al

This is Al.  We met at the bus stop.  It's that same tricky spot where I always struggle with getting a good picture.  I explained to Al that that particular spot was my unlucky spot.   Al was understanding of the challenges and patient with me as I struggled with multiple camera settings.

"My job," Al answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Al's recent act of kindness is that he gave his recyclables to a man in need,  so that the man could have the money.

I asked Al if he had a life's purpose or personal mission statement.  Al answered, "the permanent pursuit of knowledge."  I loved Al's answer! I explained to Al that he would understand this someday when he gets older, but that right now I'm experiencing memory changes so I twisted his statement and joked that I'm in pursuit of permanent knowledge!  Al laughed and agreed the statement works that way too!

"I lost a lot of weight," Al answered, when I asked something about himself which he would consider to be a success.  I didn't ask how much weight Al had lost but after we said good-bye and as I was walking back to my car, I realized I would have never known that Al has been working hard and getting in shape.  I had only just met Al, as he was, at that particular moment. I was struck that we never know a person's battles or triumphs which have brought them to a specific moment in time.  We never know what a person has endured, or what a person has overcome, and we don't know what they're about to face either.  People deserve our compassion.

Day 118 - Susan

This is Susan.  We met at one of my favorite trails.

There were two men with Susan when I approached  to ask if I could take her picture.  She asked if I wanted just her picture alone, or a group picture.  I explained to Susan (I was really explaining to the men)  that I always end up with more men than women subjects, so I was hoping to just get her picture alone.  The men's feelings weren't too terribly hurt.  Actually, I think they were relieved because that gave them more time to talk about cars. (which was the conversation I had interrupted when I approached them.)

"I'm taking an improv class," Susan answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in her life right now.  This explained why Susan was so eager to give me a funny-face picture!  In hindsight, I should have gone along so we could see what she's been learning in class!

Susan's recent act of kindness is that she took a friend to the doctor for a procedure.

When I asked Susan if she had a personal mission statement or life's purpose, she explained she has a value statement, which is the golden rule.  Susan went on the explain that she's now retired so in her daily life, she's "focusing on trying to have music, physical activities in nature, and social activities."  I wasn't sure if I had heard Susan correctly, so I asked for clarification if she stated "physical activities in nature, or physical activities and nature."  Susan confirmed, "physical activities in nature," but went on to say that even when she's not in nature, that she brings nature to her.  She has a bird feeder and even when she's just at home, she's able to observe nature.  Susan my have brought nature to her home, but it sounds like Susan lives a full life!  She likes to bike, hike and kayak!  She had just finished 7 miles with her friends.  (and let's not forget that when she's not biking, hiking or kayaking, she's taking improv classes!)

When I asked Susan something about herself which she would consider to be a success, she said that she had professional success when she worked.  Susan is one of the people responsible for the Providence Health Plan.

The way Susan is living her retired life is an inspiration!

Do you remember Alisa, from day 203 of the first project? When we met the first time, she was training for the Boston Marathon. Alisa arrived at the trail  just as I was about to take Susan's picture.   Alisa spotted us and came over to say hello!  I quickly explained to Susan that Alisa was also a subject in the project. I was glad to have finally run into her again because I've been wondering how she did in the Boston Marathon.   Alisa did well, it was a great experience and quite an emotional experience because of the bombing the previous year.  She plans to take this year off from marathons and I'm sure we'll "run" into each other on the trail this spring and summer!

Here is a summary of the personal mission statements and life's purposes from the subjects of week 17:

• I want to be happy. That's my life's goal.
• Avoiding mediocracy.
• To be happy and to try to make others happy.
• What can art do, who should it serve, and how can it affect the world it inhabits, above and beyond negotiating the rise and fall of its meager share in the luxury commodity market?
• Experience everything, forgive everyone,
• What comes around, goes around.
• To grow and experience life with as many friends and family as possible."
• The permanent pursuit of knowledge.
• Experience daily -  music, physical activities in nature, and social activities.

Thank you to each and every subject in this project!

Have a great week!

365 More People Pictures - Week 16

Hello! I hope you've had a great Thanksgiving weekend!

Day 105 - Debbie

This is one of my very best friends, Debbie.  You met her last year too!  Debbie, our dear friend, Becki, and I, went out to celebrate Debbie's Birthday.

Debbie is one of my very best friends in the universe, and she's also one of my most challenging subjects because she's always talking.  It seems like every other picture I take of Debbie, is one in which I've caught her with a word half-way out her mouth.    At one point when we were trying to take the pictures, I actually had to say to her, "Debbie, stop talking!"  Debbie was quiet for about 1.5 seconds and then she blurted, "oh, I have to tell you a story!"  We all busted up laughing and all I could do at that point was just to try to capture Debbie being Debbie.

The upside to shooting Debbie is that although I have to take several pictures to catch her when she's not mid-word, at least one of those pictures ends up being among my favorites of all time.  Of course, I'm a little biased because she's my friend and I love her, but some of my best pictures have been of Debbie and Becki.  I love taking their picture together.  When they're in front of my lens, I'm able to pause to admire and appreciate just how beautiful my friends are.

"'Sharsies' moments with my besties and the fact that I'm looking forward to the next chapter in my life," Debbie answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in her life right now.  "Sharsies" is the term Debbie has assigned to dining family style, where everyone is sharing a little of everything but really, it's less about the food and more about just sharing in the moment.

I asked Debbie if she's recently performed an act of kindness and she answered, "Lou and I just gave out brown bags a few weeks ago."   Debbie was referring to "Project Brown Bag."  We decided a few years ago that we would no longer exchange Christmas gifts with one another.  That same year, we thought Debbie broke the rules when she handed out a brown bag to each of us at Christmas, with the instructions not to open the bag.  After we each had a brown bag in our hands, Debbie then explained her idea that she wanted to start a movement in which people would hand out "brown bags" to homeless people.  It was her dream that we would always carry brown bags with us in our cars and when we found someone in need, we would have something to give to them.

The idea is to fill the brown bags with snack foods, water and whatever else could be of help to a person living on the street.   In addition to encouraging us to carry  brown bags with us at all times,  Debbie now heads up the effort for us to get together every few months and hand out bags in Downtown Portland.  Last year, we took it up a step higher and collected hats, scarves, blankets and socks, and set up a little mobile soup kitchen with hot chocolate and cup-o-noodles and handed them out to people on Christmas day.

Debbie further explained, "Project Brown Bag inspires grassroots efforts for others to do the same.  That's what I'm most excited about."  We've learned that a few friends and family have now also started to carry brown bags with them, and have also organized large-scale efforts to distribute brown bags to people in need.

"To be thankful for what I have and take advantage of opportunities to give back to others," Debbie answered, when I asked if she had a personal mission statement or life's purpose.  Debbie's whole point with Project Brown Bag is helping us to have gratitude for what we have, because no matter what our circumstances, people are living with less.   Even if our budgets are tight, we can still find enough to assemble a brown bag or two and be able to help someone in need.

When I asked Debbie something about herself which she would consider to be a success, she jokingly answered, "I look good in these pants!"  We all laughed and spent the next few minutes remarking about her magic pants and agreed that she did indeed look great in those pants!  After the laughs, Debbie answered seriously, "I'm proud of the special relationships I have with my friends and family."

Debbie, you're one of a kind and I love you!  I'm so happy to be among one of those special relationships and know our friendship will last a lifetime. I love your big heart.

Day 106 - Nick

This is Nick.  I could hear a skateboarder in a parking lot near me and I was on my way to go ask him if I could take his picture when all of the sudden, Nick just appeared.  I've learned in this project that when someone just appears in my path like this, I need to go with it and ask for their picture.

Nick and I talked for a while, much longer than I normally get to talk to with each subject.  You know when you watch a good movie and hours later you're still replaying scenes in your mind and trying to dissect and analyze it?  Our conversation was like that.  Our conversation was significant to me and exactly what I needed to hear at that time.  Hopefully, it was also significant to Nick as well, but I suspect in this case - Nick was there to teach me something, rather than the other way around.

"I'm learning the true meaning of compassion," Nick answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.  Nick's study of Buddhism is helping him to consider people and situations differently and he's learning to become more selfless.  Nick explained that compassion leads to taking care of others, not things. We should place more value on people instead of material possessions.

I asked Nick if he's recently performed an act of kindness.  Nick answered that kindness is  "daily practice" for him, again he referenced having compassion.  Nick explained that it is an act of kindness to keep ourselves in check - to see beyond ourselves and to be open to "love on each other more."  Patience is kindness.  Choosing to seek clarity instead making assumptions about others is an act of kindness.   We talked about the example of somebody cutting us off in traffic.  It's highly unlikely that a person intentionally cut us off.   Seriously, how many people would deliberately put themselves and others in danger?  It is our human reaction to get angry or frustrated with someone who cuts us off, but the more likely story is that it was a complete accident on their part. Or, we never  know what they're dealing with.  For all we know, their mind my have been on a sick or dying relative.  Attempting to see things from another person's perspective is kindness.  Nick and I both agreed that as much as we're both striving to be good people,  because we're just human, we make human mistakes.  The point is, we're trying.

"To be a conduit," Nick answered, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or life's purpose.  I loved Nick's answer.  Not only is it his profession, but Nick feels it's his life's purpose to do whatever it takes to help others to shine.   Nick feels he's a success when he's been able to help turn on a light bulb for another being.

Of most significance from our conversation, is that we both appreciated that at that specific moment, nothing else mattered.  We were both completely present in the current moment.  I explained to Nick how this project has helped me to realize that when I'm meeting the subject for the day and taking their picture, it's often the only time in my entire day that I'm able to let go and just be completely present.  There are definitely days when I've been unable to do this and it shows. Sometimes my mind is still trying to process work or life stress, and I've not been completely present, but I'm working on becoming more mindful. It was just pretty amazing that for a few minutes, nothing else mattered to us, a couple of strangers, than the person standing before us.

Again, our conversation circled back to compassion and kindness and how being in the present moment lead us meeting one another and having our conversation to begin with.  I had intentions to go elsewhere to look for a subject, but being in the moment caused me to approach Nick.  Nick definitely had a lot on his mind and he had an agenda, but because he paused and was in the present, he agreed to let me take his picture.  He was able to put together in his mind that I needed to find a subject, and he was gong to help me!

Thank you, Nick, for your time and for being a conduit.

Day 107 - Christopher

This is Christopher.  We met outside of Sam's Billiards.

"I'm writing for a living," Christopher answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.  Christopher writes comics.

I asked Christopher if he's performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness.  Christopher said that the barista at the coffee shop he goes to gave him a free pastry that morning.

"Don't waste time, and don't be a dick," Christopher answered, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement.  When you think about it, this is actually pretty darn good!  (And, it's so concise - but that comes from not wasting time!)

I asked Christopher something about himself which he considers to be a success. Christopher explained that he moved to Portland specifically to become a full-time writer and he's made it happen!

Day 108 - Morgan

This is Morgan.  He was sitting on a bench, waiting for the bus to arrive when we met.

"I feel like I finally found someone who loves me unconditionally," Morgan answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

I asked Morgan if he's recently performed an act of kindness. Morgan explained that he reserves/saves the tips he makes from his job and then gives the money to homeless people he meets on the street.  Wow.  Can you believe this?  I'm sure Morgan, like anyone, could probably use his tips in his own daily life, but he gives his money away.

When I asked Morgan if he had a personal mission statement, or life's purpose, he answered, "I'm still trying to figure that out - whatever it is, I hope I can use it to benefit everyone around me."  I suspect Morgan is already a benefit to everyone around him, simply by being him.

Morgan feels that making the move to Portland is something about himself which he would consider to be a success. He worked for months to save up enough money to make the move.

Morgan and I had finished with the "interview" and pictures and just then the bus arrived.   Morgan, however, made no attempt to board the bus.  After the bus pulled away, I asked, "wasn't that your bus?"  Morgan answered, "yes, but it's ok.  Another one will come soon."  I was in shock that Morgan passed on his bus just so we could visit a little while longer.

This was the day before Thanksgiving and Morgan explained that he really didn't have any place he had to be.  I was thankful for that, because I really didn't have any place I had to be either since my husband and I weren't doing anything for Thanksgiving.  I asked Morgan if he had plans for Thanksgiving and he told me of the friendsgiving feast he would attend the next day.  Morgan had a couple of grocery bags with him and I curious, I asked what he had been assigned to bring.  He reached down into the grocery bag and pulled out a Tofurkey!  We both laughed and I agreed when he said, "it doesn't get any more Portland than that!"

Morgan said this would be the first Thanksgiving he's celebrated in a few years.  I don't know if it were the things Moran said, or the things Morgan didn't say,  but I sensed that Morgan may have had a difficult past.  He's soft-spoken and his nature is sweet and gentle.  I don't know what the past may have been like for Morgan, but I'm so happy that Morgan made it to Portland and that he's found love here.  I'm optimistic his future is going to be a happy one.

I would have been happy just hanging out and talking with Morgan a little longer, but I didn't know if Morgan felt the same way.  I also didn't want him to feel obligated to pass on the next bus too!  I thanked Morgan and we said our good-byes.  He's a good guy.

Day 109 - Tim

This is Tim.  We met outside the mall.

My husband and I spent a quiet Thanksgiving morning together and after he left for work that evening, I was alone.  I  had wasted the day away, watching cheesy Hallmark movies and hadn't even gone out to find a subject for the day.  I headed to the mall, hoping to find someone there.  Tim appeared to be heading in with his Mom or relative when I stopped to ask if I could take his picture.

"Seeing my family again," Tim answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

"I helped a homeless guy the other day," Tim answered, when I asked if he's performed an act of kindness.

When I asked Tim if he had a personal mission statement or a life's purpose, he asked for examples of what others had said. I read a few of the statements from the previous few days and then Tim answered, "to live with honor and respect."  I'm always so amazed that nearly everyone is able to pull these beautiful statements out of thin air.  If someone were to ask me, I would get overwhelmed and flustered.  I know I would just ramble.  It's been my hope that after I meet someone and ask the question, they will then go on to refine their personal mission statement.  I like to think that the answer they gave me was their first draft, and that perhaps they go on to give the question even more consideration.  I hope the process has been helpful to people in some way.

When I first asked Tim something about himself which he considers to be a success, he said that he couldn't think of anything.  I pushed him a little more, explaining that one guy said that he was successful at napping!  After hearing that, Tim then answered that he's successful at making friends.

Day 110 - Tatiana

This is Tatiana.  She was waiting at the bus stop.

Tatiana was such a beautiful sight but I was having trouble catching it the way I was seeing in my mind.    Raindrops covered the bus shelter and when a car would drive by, the car's headlights would light up the raindrops like sparkling glitter.  I don't know which was sparklier - the glistening rain drops or Tatiana!

"Being around my family for the holidays," Tatiana answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in her life right now.

"I make sure that I always do one random act of kindness every day," Tatiana answered, when I asked if she's performed an act of kindness or if she's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness.

"To live, laugh, love - to appreciate life and live it to the fullest," Tatiana answered, when I asked if she had a personal mission statement or life's purpose.  "I wake up thankful for each new day," Tatiana went on to explain.  Talking with Tatiana was so uplifting!

When I asked Tatiana something about herself which she considers to be a success, she answered, "that I'm working and getting everything together. I'm standing on my own two feet and being independent."

Tatiana was such a sweetie.  I was so glad we met.  After we were finished and as we were saying good-bye,  she thanked me!!  It felt funny when Tatiana thanked me. I'm the one who owed her thanks and appreciation. Tatiana is the one who performed the act of kindness by letting me take her picture and sharing some of her story with us.  I thanked her, but again, Tatiana thanked me right back.  As I was driving away, I realized the reason Tatiana thanked me is because for a moment - we were able to talk about only positive things.  She was thankful  for the fun moment we shared.

Day 111 - Holly

This is Holly.  We met at the beauty supply store.   I feel a little weird about asking people to be in the project when we're inside of a business.  Not only does it feel I'm interrupting them at work, but it just feels awkward.  Since the other customers had just left and because the ladies working in the store were so beautifully made-up, I figured I would go ahead and ask.  Holly's co-worker (possible manager?) volunteered her.   Holly agreed, but when I asked if we could go outside to take the picture (where there wasn't a wall-o-beauty products), Holly reconsidered because of the cold.  I said I could ask the questions inside and then we could go outside and I'd be fast!  Holly agreed.

The happiest thing happening in Holly's life right now is school.

"It happens every day," Holly answered, when I asked if she's performed an act of kindness or if she's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness.

"One day at a time," Holly answered, when I asked if she had a personal mission statement or a life's purpose.

When I asked Holly something about herself she would consider to be a success, I could tell she was struggling for the answer.  Holly's co-worker/manager encouraged her, reminding her that she has a huge success if she was willing to share.  Holly then answered that she will have 18 months sobriety in December.  Congratulations, Holly!  Nice work.

Holly and I then went out to take the picture.  Holly explained she's not able to give a fake smile. I told her it was ok and that she didn't have to fake a smile.  She then gave me a few fun/sassy looks and then we did a couple where she was just her natural self.

Holly's look is amazing and I was pleased I managed to get a decent picture, even though we were in a strip mall parking lot, at night.  (I attribute that to Holly!)

Wishing you continued success, Holly.

Here's the summary of personal mission statements/life's purposes from this week's subjects:

• To be thankful for what I have and take advantage of opportunities to give back to others.
• To be a conduit.
• Don't waste time, and don't be a dick.
• I'm still trying to figure that out - whatever it is, I hope I can use it to benefit everyone around me.
• To live with honor and respect.
• One day at a time

Thank you for following along and if you've been in this project, thank you for your kindness and for allowing me to take your picture!