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 Day People Picture Project - Week 46

Hello! We're finished with week 46 of The 365 Day People Picture Project!

If this is the first time you've stopped by, I've challenged myself to take a picture of a person, every day, for an entire year.  The pictures are taken fresh daily. I'm not stockpiling photos.  The majority of the subjects in this project have been complete strangers who I've met while walking down the street.  Also included are a few friends, family, and co-workers.

I'm not a photographer and I still haven't taken a photography class, although I'm finally registered for one in a couple weeks. (a little late, huh?)  I just wanted to see if I could do it.  I wanted to challenge myself to do something, every day, for an entire year.  I wanted to learn photography, and I wanted to have content for this newly hatched blog.  And, here we are...

Day 316 - Ty and Marlise

This is Ty and Marlise.  We met in downtown Vancouver as they were heading to the wine festival in the park, and while I was actually taking a picture of a completely different couple who were going to be the subjects of the day.  Ty and Marlise jumped in on the other photo, much to the relief of the other couple, who then pretty much insisted that Ty and Marlise take their place as the subjects for the day and give the interview.  To onlookers, we would have appeared to have been a group of long-time friends who were stopping for a quick photo, but we were all strangers, having a great laugh together.

I asked the couple the happiest thing happening in their lives right now and Marlise responded, "we just got married 3 months ago!"  Ty jokingly said that their wedding wasn't his happiest thing and after some kidding around, Ty turned to Marlise and said, "being with you," is the happiest thing happening in my life.   Awwwww, so sweet.

When I asked the newlyweds if they had recently performed an act of kindness, Ty jokingly said no, but then went on to say that he tries to do nice things when they're out and about.  (such as giving money to homeless people on the street corner.)  Marlise said that they had just met a woman who had just moved here from California.  The woman hadn't met any new friends since moving here, so Marlise gave the woman her phone number and they made plans to get together.  I think the woman from California just met herself a couple of fun new friends!

"Nice matters," Marlise replied, when I asked if she had a personal mission statement or if she could think of one on the spot.

I asked the pair something about themselves they would consider to be a success.  Ty replied, "my house."  "My children," Marlise answered.

Wishing Ty and Marlise a happy new life together!

Day 317 - My Mother-in-Law

My Mother-in-Law reminds me of a cross between Meryl Streep and Martha Stewart, with a sprinkling of June Cleaver.  Yes, she's just that nice.

I asked the happiest thing happening in her life right now and she replied, "getting up to sunshine in the morning, my home and my flowers."  She works hard in her yard, and now she's enjoying seeing her hard work in bloom.

I asked if she had recently performed an act of kindness and she explained that she had just driven a group of ladies to the St. Paul Heirloom Rose Garden.

Like other subjects in the project, my mother-in-law was having trouble thinking of an answer when I asked if she could think of a personal mission statement, so I rephrased the question and instead asked about her life's purpose.  With that, she immediately answered, "my life's purpose is to be faithful to Jesus, take care of my husband, spend as much time as I can with my children and grandchildren, and to stay healthy."

When I asked my mother-in-law one thing about herself which she considers to be a success, she just couldn't and wouldn't give an answer.  I could tell this was an extremely hard question for her and I was struck with the realization that she truly is so selfless, that her own happiness and success comes secondary to the success and happiness of her family and friends.  I don't think she had ever considered herself in this way before.  Eventually, my father-in-law tried helping her with an answer saying that she's successful at gardening and being a grandma.  I continued to push because I thought it was important to hear her own response.  Finally, she replied, "I was very good at my job when I was employed."  (She's enjoying retirement now.)  I was so happy when she came up with an answer and that she had a moment to reflect on her life.

Thank you for letting me take your picture and for welcoming me into your family. I love you.

Day 318 - John

This is John.  He seemed a little sad or stressed when we first met, but by time we were finished, we were both a little happier.

"Starting my own business," John said, is the happiest thing happening in his life right now.  John's new company will build guitar pedals.

I asked John if he had recently performed an act of kindness.  He couldn't think of something specific, but he was sure he had done little things here and there.

When I asked John if he could think of a personal mission statement, he was stumped for a while, but again, as soon as I rephrased the question, he responded immediately and effortlessly, "to make music."

"Learning to control my own consciousness," John said, is something about himself which he would consider to be a success.

Day 319 - Josh

This is Josh.

"Falling in love," is the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

I asked Josh if he had recently performed an act of kindness and he explained that he had given money to a woman who is physically disabled and in a wheelchair.  She also possibly has mental health challenges as well. I knew of the woman Josh was speaking of.  I see her sitting in her wheelchair on the street corner every day on my way to work.  Josh had observed her one day and when she would ask people for money and they would decline her, she would get a little upset and say things under her breath, or maybe not quite under her breath.  Josh watched this go on for a while and then approached her, gave her some money, and then more importantly, he gave her some of his time and his kindness.  He talked with the woman, learned her name, and simply just visited with her for a while.  I'm sure she could use the money, but more importantly, I'm positive she benefitted more from Josh's kindness.

"To follow acts of kindness, compassion, love and acceptance of those I care about and those around me, " Josh replied, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of something on the spot.

"I've raised two amazing children who are healthy and happy," Josh said, is one thing about himself which he would consider to be a success.

Day 320 - Graham

This is Graham.  We met in downtown Portland as I was just leaving the camera shop and he was leaving work.  I spotted Graham and thought he looked nice and approachable, but my hands were full and I wasn't going to ask him because I wasn't "ready" to take a picture.  Something just compelled me to ask him anyway.  Graham agreed and he was patient with me while I set my things down and readied myself.

Graham is a good-looking guy, but I was concerned I wasn't capturing it.  Although we were friendly enough before I had started taking his picture, it became awkward when the camera came out. Graham reminded me of a little kid.  When I would start to take a picture, he would get the biggest, cutest, child-like, forced, say-cheese smile on his face.  I couldn't help myself! I totally cracked up!  I could just imagine him as a kid, saying "c-h-e-e-e-e-e-s-e" when someone would take his picture.  Yes, I know I will never, ever, make it as a professional photographer because not only are my images not good enough, but I'm fairly confident that it says in the professional photographer's code of conduct handbook-  that one shouldn't laugh at their subjects.

Graham explained that he isn't photogenic and when he smiles, it doesn't look authentic.  When people tell me they aren't comfortable having their picture taken after they've agreed to let me take their picture, it means so much to me.  It makes me appreciate them even that much more, because I know they're outside of their comfort zone.  We both are.  The process of working through it together, is rewarding for us both.

Graham suggested that I should tell him a joke to ease the tension and make him genuinely smile.  I'm horrible with jokes. I know we're supposed to always have a joke in the can, but I don't.  I can't retain them.  So,  I blurted out the only thing that came to mind, I said to Graham, "ok, say this: One smart fellow, he felt smart. Two smart fellows, they felt smart.  Three smart fellows, they all felt smart."  (Try it yourself - don't read it, but just say it. It won't work if you read the words.)  Graham said it was too hard and since I didn't have a joke, he was going to tell me one instead.  Graham asked, "what do you call a pile of cats?"  I considered the question, but couldn't think of the punchline.  Graham replied, "a MEOWTAIN!!"  (get it - mountain?)  You can't say that we weren't trying!  We decided to finish the interview, and then take more pictures afterwards.

When I asked Graham the happiest thing happening in his life right now, he thought about his answer for a while and said it was a hard question. I was hoping it was because he had too many happy things to chose from and he confirmed it was.  He finally decided, "my niece and nephew."

When I asked if he had recently performed an act of kindness, I could tell he was recalling the past few days/weeks and searching his memory for a kind act.  I also got the feeling he does nice little things for people frequently.  Graham said that he had just given someone directions, and they were correct!  I laughed, agreeing that it's always more kind to give someone good directions, than it is to spin someone in the wrong direction.  (You might remember that I'm guilty of this.)  Graham just moved to Portland from California, so he was particularly pleased that he was able to be of help to tourists since he's new to the area himself.

"Always be mindful," Graham replied, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one on the spot.

I asked Graham one thing about himself which he would consider to be a success, and he replied, "my career."

After the "interview," we took a few more pictures and continued to visit a while longer. I learned that Graham collects domain names.  He said he was pretty obsessed with it for a while, but he's eased up on it a bit.  A few of his current favorites are:  instagraham.com and sparklepony.com.    He hasn't developed them into websites - I understand the fun in just thinking of creative domain names and then procuring them as your own.  Graham now holds onto them for a year and then just releases them back into the wild.

I'm still so amazed when I have interactions with complete strangers and it ends up feeling like I've just spent time with an old friend.  I hope the people in this project have had the same rewarding experiences that I've had.

Day 321 - Chris

This is Chris.  We met at the bus stop which always adds a degree of pressure since we're racing against the clock. Or, at least against the bus which could arrive at any moment.

"Summer vacation," Chris replied, is the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

I asked Chris if he had recently performed an act of kindness.  He replied, "yes," and then got a grin on his face. I asked if he wanted to share, and he explained that he got his girlfriend 6 birthday gifts!

When I asked Chris if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one on the spot, he said that he didn't have one, but his impromptu mission statement is: "to remember that everybody else is a person too."

One thing about himself which Chris would consider to be a success, is that he manages to go on a vacation every year.  Big vacations!  This year, he's going to Germany.  His favorite trip so far was his vacation in Paris.

The bus arrived just as we were finishing up and we were both on our separate ways.

Day 322 - Pam

This is Pam.  She's actually the mother of my dear friend, Debbie. (from week 15.)  Pam was in town for Debbie and Lou's (from week 20) anniversary party and it would be my only opportunity to take her picture for the project.

The day after I graduated high school, I rode a greyhound bus from southern Oregon to Portland and Pam let me stay with her and Debbie for the summer.  Pam is yet one more motherly figure I have in my life, and one more woman that I'm certain my own real mom is grateful for.  Pam was one more woman in the  "gang of moms" who helped see to it that all of us girls were happy, healthy, and safe.

I knew I wanted to share a picture of Pam laughing. She's always laughing!  In order to do so, I recruited Becki (from week 7) to be responsible for making Pam laugh.  It worked. Actually, we were entirely too successful at making Pam laugh. (I don't even want to know what Becki was doing behind my back to make Pam laugh so uncontrollably. All I know is that at one point, Becki was sniffing my armpits.)   In nearly all of the pictures, Pam was laughing hysterically!  We actually had to tone it down a bit and compose ourselves, which was extremely difficult.  I finally decided on this picture.  Although I loved the others in which Pam was laughing,  this is a little more appropriate to share with you.

When I asked Pam the happiest thing happening in her life right now, she gestured to all of us sitting around her and said, "the togetherness of all this."

I asked Pam if she had recently performed an act of kindness. She said that she and her husband, Tommy, volunteer to deliver food for the "Meals on Wheels" program every wednesday.

When I asked Pam if she had a personal mission statement, or if she could think of one on the spot, Pam replied, "to learn to be the very best person I can be...and that means trying to be nicer to people."  Amidst the joking from the family who were sitting in on our interview, Pam started to get serious.  Pam had a health scare recently, and I can imagine it influenced her answer.  She went on to say that she's recently been thinking and seriously making an effort to be a better person because when you get "close to the edge, " you start to consider - "how do I want people to remember me?"

I asked Pam one thing about herself which she would consider to be a success and she replied, "I'm successful at being a dog owner."   I confess, I was surprised at her response because I could think of several different possible answers. I wasn't the only one surprised, because the rest of the family erupted, saying, "you're supposed to say your kids or your marriage!"  We all laughed.  She insisted that her dog is happy and she was standing by her statement.  Pam, again getting serious, went on to say that she's successful at "being close to family, to make them realize how important they are to me."  With that, I got teary-eyed, gave one of my other-mother's a hug, and thanked her for being in the project.  And then we all erupted in laughter again...and I can't even tell you about that. It was just embarrassing for us all.

Pam touched on her thoughts about how people will remember her.  Pam is nice, even though she's concerned she may not always be.  She's enthusiastic, energetic, loving, and loud.  (You've got to be loud in that family!)  She's a good mom.  She's a hugger! She greets  you with a hug so big, it doesn't make sense how such a petite person can hug so big.  Pam lives.  She finds joy in simple little things like her dog, or a cup of coffee on a sunny morning.  Pam is welcoming.  Pam is someone you want to be around.  She's always reminded me of a woman who should own and run a cattle ranch, or better yet, a B&B on a cattle ranch. But yet, she very much gives off the vibe of the artist and writer she is.

Pam is an encouraging person.  She pushes you to do the things you dream of doing. Pam is a talented writer.  She was attending writing classes when I stayed with them that summer. It wasn't until I saw her passion and joy of writing, that I confessed I had my own passion for writing.  Pam told me about her classes, shared what she had learned, and she let me read her assignments.  I loved reading Pam's stories and I realized that some day, I'd like to become as skilled as Pam. Pam still encourages me to write and she's one of the few people who continues to fan my flame, so much so, that some day - I just may start that book.

Pam, you need not worry how people will remember you.  You are unforgettable, you.  Love you, Pam.

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

• Nice matters.
• My life's purpose is to be faithful to Jesus, take care of my husband, spend as much time as I can with my children and grandchildren, and to stay healthy.
• To make music
• To follow acts of kindness, compassion, love and acceptance of those I care about and those around me.
• Always be mindful.
• To remember that everybody else is a person too.
• To learn to be the very best person I can be.

That's it for this week!  Thank you for following along!

My sincere thanks to each of you who have been subjects in this project. You are making it happen and I'm grateful for your kindness.   (And thank you to two of my other moms who agreed to be in the project. I love you.)  If you would like a copy of your picture, please don't hesitate to e-mail me!  I'd be happy to send it to you.

Have a big week!

365 Day People Picture Project - Week 44

Hello, and thank you for checking in on week 44 of The 365 Day People Picture Project! If this is your first time stopping by, I've challenged myself to take a picture of a person, every day, for an entire year.  I'm not a photographer and I haven't even taken any photography classes or lessons.  I started this blog and quickly realized that blogging is hard work! Especially when you live an uninteresting life.  I needed blog content!  Having good content also means having good images.  I had neither, but the one thing I did have was a brand new, decent, entry-level DSLR.   With subtle influences from a few different sources, the realization that my need for both content and good images, and my hidden desire to become a recreational photographer, evolved into The 365 Day People Picture Project.

When I started this project, I had dreams of developing into a talented and skilled photographer with an artistic eye.  Well, I'm not even anywhere close to achieving that, but I'm not giving up.  I simply haven't worked hard enough at this, I haven't learned enough, and I ended up not even taking any photography workshops or classes.

I've been on my own with a few books and unlimited online resources, but there came a point when I was trying to study so much and so hard, I really wasn't absorbing anything.  I was getting frustrated, feeling stupid and defeated.

Now that I'm nearing the end of the 365 days, and after reviewing my recent photos, I realize that I'm not going to magically become the artist I had hoped to become in these last few days.  That was an unrealistic expectation, especially considering that I need some experienced coaching to get where I would like to be.

These last few weeks, starting next week, I will end the project exactly how I began the project.  My objective will be to see each subject as the beautiful person they are, and simply set out with the intention to capture their unique sparkle.

Day 302 - Peter James

Peter James was the last of my subjects from my working holiday in which I got to play tourist and stay at a hotel in Downtown Portland.  (I wasn't much of a good tourist, considering all I did was crash out as soon as we were done working.)

I asked Peter James the happiest thing happening in his life right now, and he replied, "inner personal growth."

When I asked Peter James if he had recently performed an act of kindness, he explained that he is in medicine, so he has the opportunity to perform acts of kindness for his patients.

"Self-transformation," was Peter James' answer, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement.

Peter James was pretty bashful in giving an answer when I asked him something about himself which he would consider to be a success.  He looked sort of pained when I asked him the question. He explained that he's humble in giving an answer because he feels like he has lots to work on.  He finally decided on an answer, and said, "perseverance."

Day 303 - Andrea

This is Andrea.  She's actually Brandy's co-worker. (Brandy was week 15.)  I spotted Brandy and Andrea outside of their shop and headed their way with the intention to say hi to Brandy, and also hoping Andrea would let me take her picture.  It was such a pleasant coincidence.  As I was walking toward their shop, I ran into Blanch (from week 37) and we were able to visit for a moment.  When I reached Brandy and Andrea, I could see another one of the subjects from this project waiting for the bus, just down the block! In that moment, I experienced another great community feeling.  In just a few short blocks, I encountered several new "friends."  All because of this project!

I asked Andrea the happiest thing happening in her life right now and she replied, "my boyfriend."  "My life is pretty great, actually," Andrea continued.

When I asked Andrea if she had performed a recent act of kindness, she explained that she was in line behind an elderly woman at the grocery store and when the elderly lady went to pay for her groceries, she realized she had forgotten her wallet at home.  Not wanting the lady to have to go all the way back home to retrieve her wallet, then come all the way back to the store to retrieve her already-shopped for groceries, Andrea paid for the elder's groceries.  She simply paid for them outright, not asking or expecting the woman to pay her back. It was a gift, not a loan.   What a sweetheart.

"Live life to its fullest," Andrea answered, when I asked if she had a personal mission statement or if she could make one up on the spot.

I asked Andrea one thing about herself she would consider to be a success and she replied, "my loyalty, and my children."

Day 304 - David

This is David.  He didn't even hesitate to answer when I approached him to ask if I could take his picture for this project.

When I asked David about the happiest thing happening in his life right now, he gestured to his camera-shy partner, Bryen, and replied, "this man right here- he's my partner in crime and my partner in life."

David and Bryen were attempting to have dinner but the Burger Bar where they wanted to eat, was closed.  Lucky for me, because had the restaurant been open, they wouldn't have been standing outside the locked doors with sad and hungry eyes, and I wouldn't have had the opportunity to meet them!

I asked David if he's recently performed an act of kindness.  David explained that when they go out to eat, they often donate their leftover meals to homeless people.  (sometimes people decline the gesture, but most often, people appreciate the meal.)

David was the third or fourth person in this project to have his personal mission statement actually tattooed on his body. (I've lost count - it's been a few though, and I love it!)  David's personal mission statement, the statement on his forearm, "endure life, be true, die happy."

I asked David one thing about himself which he would consider to be a success and he replied, "building friendships."  This was so obvious!  In the short time I had been visiting with David and Bryen, again, I felt like I had just met new friends.  I have no doubt, they build friendships wherever they go!

After we finished the picture and "interview," we visited a while longer. Knowing the guys were in the mood for a good burger, I suggested Sam's Billiards as an alternative since it was just around the corner.  We walked together since my car was parked next to Sam's.  I learned that David and Bryen had just moved to Portland, from Arizona,  the week prior.  I told them they brought the sun with them because it had been beautiful since they arrived.  They laughed and were actually looking forward to the rainy and overcast northwest weather.  David and Bryen would both be starting their new jobs in a few days and settling in to call Portland home.

Once again, this project has enabled me to be on the unofficial welcoming committee and welcome new residents to the area!

David and Bryen were nice and fun guys and I hope to run into them again some day.  A few days after David was the subject, the weather changed and we're back to our drizzly and misty Portland weather.  I was actually happy the weather changed so that David and Bryen could experience the weather of which they had been dreaming.

Day 305 - Dylan

I've been seeing Dylan around for a few months now.  I often leave work at the same time he's taking a break from his job down the street.  I've known I wanted to ask if he'd be in the project for a while, but I always spot him just after I pass the entrance of the parking lot where he works.  I told myself to remember to stop if I ever see an open parking spot on the street and he's out taking his break.  Finally!  There was an open spot on the street and not just one spot, but two!  It was perfect because I'm not the best parallel parker- I sort of need a landing runway.

I realized how funny it must have sounded as I quickly rambled the explanation of my project and how I finally had a parking spot in which to pull over.  In my quick and excited rambling, I'm sure the poor guy was only able to gather enough information to feel just a little creeped out to know someone had been watching him...but he agreed to be in the project anyway.  I was pretty embarrassed after I thought about it.

I asked Dylan the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he replied, "my girlfriend, Emma."

I asked Dylan if he had recently performed and act of kindness and he said that because of the area where we work, he has lots of opportunities to perform acts of kindness. There's a fairly large homeless population in the area, so he often gives people something to eat or drink.

"What you put out into the universe, you get back," Dylan said, is his personal mission statement.  Dylan said he tries to be nice to everyone.

One thing about himself which Dylan considers to be a success - is that he quit smoking this year!!  I wished him continued success!

Day 306 - John and Trevor

This is John (left) and Trevor (right).  I almost felt as though they were plants and I was being punked.

I could tell they were nice guys but they were sooooo mellow.  In their own way, I think they were playing with me- but they assured me they weren't.

I asked the happiest thing happening in their lives right now and they both agreed they were happy about summer break.

When I asked the pair if they had recently performed an act of kindness, they both replied flatly, "no."  I laughed.  I thought they were joking because they were just so dry about it.  Plus, I got a good feeling about them, so I was certain they must have performed some sort of act of kindness. They kept insisting they hadn't.  Finally, I think just to make me shut up, Trevor said that he gave his girlfriend a glass of water.

When I asked if they had a personal mission statement, or could think of one on the spot, Trevor answered first, saying, "no fun."  John then quickly fired back, "party."  "No fun," followed by "party"...see why I thought they were joking with me?

If it was a challenge to find out if they had performed a recent act of kindness, it was even more challenging to find out if there was something about themselves they would consider to be a success.  I was so thrilled when they both gave genuine answers, and quite interesting ones at that!  Trevor finally responded, "I have a garden."  John then replied, after much more pressing, "decorating."

I knew these guys were interesting.  I just have a feeling they're so interesting, they were F'ing with me the whole time.

Day 307 - Ryan Sollee

This is Ryan Sollee, of the band, "The Builders and the Butchers."  I know he looks like the sweet guy who works in the IT department, but he's one hellofa badass rock star.  The sound that comes from this man is absolutely incredible!

I'm embarrassed by how badly I blew this picture.  But in my defense, I was suddenly nervous when I approached Ryan to ask if I could take his picture. I only recently discovered The Builders and the Butchers a few months ago when Ryan opened for Langhorne Slim in a solo show.  I was blown away!  Ryan's voice and lyrics are intense and some of the songs caused goosebumps!  I purchased two CD's the night of that solo show, and when I'm not listening to audio books, I'm listening to either Lucero, Langhorne Slim, or The Builders and the Butchers.

Having only seen Ryan's solo show, I didn't even know what the rest of the band looked like.  I made it a point to arrive to the show early and I spotted Ryan just as soon as I arrived.  He was talking with some other guys, who turned out to be the rest of the band. I interrupted them, asked for a pardon for interrupting them,  and then asked Ryan if I could take his picture for the project.   Ryan agreed to let me take his picture and then gestured for the other guys to join.  You know how I am about group photos - I knew I would blow it!  It was so embarrassing.  Not only had I basically ignored the rest of the band by accident, but my terror of having to take a group photo must have read on my face like I only wanted to take Ryan's picture.  I just don't do well with group photos yet. (partially because a group picture is a challenge to begin with, partially because I don't know what I'm doing, and partially because I don't have the right lens.)  The other guys told Ryan it was ok and we went outside to take the picture.  If I had only known how badly I was going to fail, I would have insisted the entire band join in the picture. (I'm convinced I would have done a better job.)

We stepped outside to take the picture but I was so busy rambling on about how much I enjoy his music, that I lacked any sort of concentration or focus.  Ryan had been giving a cute little "ta-da" sort of pose and I just babbled right through it and took the picture at just the completely wrong time.  The result was not good.  The pictures were so poorly composed and my timing was so off, you would have thought I had taken the pictures with my eyes closed. Plus, I managed to somehow capture Ryan at just the wrong moment and it made him look like a contortionist because I caught him as he was ending his cute little "ta-da" pose.  The picture shown here was my effort to rescue at least one of the bad shots I had taken, enough so that I could share something with you. I had to crop the hell out of it.  (It was nearly 1am  by time I got home and since it was past midnight, I had to use one of Ryan's pictures.  I couldn't go out to find another subject since it was technically the next day and if I didn't use Ryan's picture, then I would have missed a day.)  So, here we are.  I had an opportunity to take the picture of an amazing and talented musician, but I let my admiration for his work interfere with my mission.

I'm not a music critic or reviewer, so I don't even know how to appropriately review a band or a genre/sound, but tried explaining them to one of my friends by saying The Builders and the Butchers are a blend between rock and alt country, a little folk/americana-ish, with a sprinkling of gospel and sometimes the almost-detectable pulse of Native drumming. (or what seems to be at least a slight influence of Native drumming. I get this vibe because of my own personal life experience. I'm not certain if it's accurate or true.)

They sing about addiction and redemption, death, women...and black dresses!  After seeing the entire band live, it became apparent why I pick up on a Native drumming sort of vibe - they have two drummers! You're compelled to stomp your feet and dance with the rhythm.  Ryan's voice also contributes to that vibe.   Ryan sings with purpose and intent and some songs feel like he's given you his soul.  He's not simply singing just to entertain - it's more like a cry or a prayer.  In some songs it's more like he's giving praise or thanks. You don't just hear the music, you completely absorb the lyrics and the stories Ryan sings in his songs.

In one live show, you journey from partying and hard drinkin', meeting a woman in a black dress who drinks away her history,  you encounter some bad parents, a few deaths, you succumb hopelessly and completely into addiction, ready for death - you cry to God, "take me home."  Broken, but not yet dead, you cry out again, "find me o' find me, in the air, Lord." And then you find it...redemption!  It's like an alcohol-soaked church sermon!  And, it's incredible!

So, you can see why I got a little preoccupied and blew my picture.

I asked Ryan the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he replied, "I have a 2 year old."  This was a pretty beautiful answer considering he was about to perform a show and they just came off a tour in Germany.

When I asked Ryan if he had recently performed an act of kindness, he explained that he had asked his friend, of the band Bash Face, to open for them in the attempt to help them up.  Had I not known this, I would have missed  the sincere appreciation expressed by Bash Face for the opportunity.  Several times throughout their performance, they thanked The Builders and the Butchers and it was obvious they were excited and grateful for the chance!

I asked Ryan if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one on the spot.  I noticed that it seemed like he specifically had to make the distinction between his personal mission statement, and perhaps whatever guides his music.  He replied, "try to do as many different things as possible, all the time."

When I asked Ryan one thing about himself which he would consider to be a success, I speculated the answer would be his music/the band.  He surprised me and warmed my heart when he said, "being a Dad."  He must have detected the surprise in my face as I was expecting his answer to be about the band, but he went on to say that being a Dad is way more joyous and fulfilling than being in a band.

And with that, Happy Father's Day!

Day 308 - Casey

This is Casey.

"Doing good with work, earning money," was Casey's reply, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

I asked Casey if he had performed a recent act of kindness and he said that he recently helped a person out who was in a bad place in her life.

When I asked Casey if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one on the spot, he had trouble thinking of a response.  Casey is young and just beginning his life - so this wasn't surprising at all.  I rephrased the question to ask about his life's purpose instead.  Casey replied, "to be successful."   Curious, and wanting to help narrow down the focus for Casey, I asked him how he defines success.  He went on to say that success is "accomplishing your personal life goals" and "doing what makes you happy".  I remember back when I was Casey's age.  Everything was so cyclical.  He's not certain of his personal mission statement, or his life's purpose, but he has the ambition to be a success. It's like you know you want to do something, and you want to do it well, but you just don't know what that something is!  At that age, it felt like the possibilities were endless and the thought of that was also terrifying and paralyzing. I remember feeling like I can do anything I want...but I don't know what to do!  Again, I narrowed down the focus even further and asked Casey about some of his life's goals.  We were then able to break things down quite simply. The first step for Casey, is that he wants to get his own place and take care of "life stuff" such as that.  Direction!  We found it!  I'm optimistic Casey will make these things happen for himself!

When I asked Casey one thing about himself he would consider to be a success, he again mentioned his job.

Here's a review of the personal mission statements from this week's subjects:

• Self-transformation.
• Live life to its fullest.
• Endure life, be true, die happy.
• What you put out into the universe, you get back.
• "Party" / "No fun,"  (can we change this to be - find a balance between work and play?)
•  Try to do as many different things as possible, all the time.
• To be successful.

Thank you to every subject in this project!  It couldn't exist without you!  Please feel free to contact me if you'd like a copy of your picture and I'd be happy to e-mail it to you.

Thank you for following along with this project!

Have a great week!

365 Day People Picture Project - Week 43

Hello! I'm sorry I've been behind.  Don't worry, I've continued to take a picture of a person every day. I just managed to get a little behind with the blog post.

This is week 43, of The 365 Day People Picture Project. This is actually a review of the subjects from two weeks ago.

I knew when I started this project that there would be one week during the Portland Rose Festival which could possibly break me because it coincides with our peak season at my job. I was spread a little too thin.  I also squeezed in a quick road trip back home.   I'm happy to report that the peak week (actually, more like 2 - 3 weeks) didn't break me or the project- I continued taking pictures, but it did set me back with sharing them with you.  Remember, if you'd like to follow along with the daily picture, you can follow me on Instagram. My username is @missellanea.  Thank you for hanging in there with me!

Day 295 - My Mom

This is my Mom and I love her with all my heart.  Sometimes, my head and heart feel like they could burst from the love I have for my Mom.  I don't make the nearly 300 mile drive home anywhere close to as much as I would like to, or need to.  Because I don't make the trip home as often as I should, when I do, it's both happy and deeply sad for me.  I realize how much I'm missing.

Before starting this project, I daydreamed about a fantasy roster of potential subjects for this project.  For the most part, my dream list was not grounded in reality. At all.  Oh yes, I considered several celebrities, business people, authors, and even a few politicians.  When I really allowed myself to consider all actual and fantasy possibilities, I decided that the #1 person on the top of my dream roster of subjects was - my Mom!  Yes, she won over Ryan Gosling, Ashton Kutcher and Meryl Streep.  Second on my dream list (because of course, my husband was a given), is Ben Nichols, of Lucero.

Between the two of us, I don't know who makes for the more challenging subject.  I now understand where I get my aversion to having my picture taken.  I think I'm actually a much worse subject than my Mom.  She was sort of ok with having her picture taken, but she had all sorts of rules.  The biggest, and funniest, rule - was that we couldn't take her picture where anyone could see us taking pictures.  This quirk of hers helped me to understand why when I started this project, one of the most awkward feelings I had to work through, aside from approaching strangers, was having to overcome that weird issue and fear I had of other people seeing me taking pictures. (I've since learned, apparently, this is pretty common with photographers and they must overcome the fear that people are watching and judging them when they shoot.)

When I asked my mom the happiest thing happening in her life right now, she replied, "my daughter is home visiting me."  I knew this would be her answer.  Again, I was both happy and sad.  For having such an amazing mom, I really need to be a better daughter and make the drive home more often.  My visit home was also the happiest thing happening in my life.

I asked my mom if she had performed a recent act of kindness and she replied, "I take my friends and neighbors around to do their errands, go shopping, and pay bills."  It struck me, my mom's entire life has been an act of kindness.  I know there were times when I was a kid when she gave away her last few dollars to someone who needed it a little more than we did. In her business, she's been reluctant to raise prices and I know it was also out of an act of kindness.  Even when the rest of the country wasn't suffering an economic crisis, the town where I'm from has always been economically depressed.  I can remember her explaining to me one time that she knew she needed to charge more, but she had trouble doing so because she wanted to keep prices low and affordable for her clients and the women who leased a station in the shop.  I can also remember many Sunday mornings when we had a house full of people and my mom cooked and fed us all.  My mom is a good mom, but she's just a really good person too.  I'm nowhere close to being as kind and as she is, but I will continue to try.  Perhaps my mom's biggest act of kindness - is that she lovingly put up with me and my dad.

I asked my mom if she had a personal mission statement, or if she could think of one on the spot.  She didn't know if it was a personal mission statement, but she decided on, "God created us in his image and I don't want to disappoint God."  She then went on to give me a few guiding principles in sticking to this - "Actions speak louder than words."  "Do unto others as you would have others do unto you."  "Judge not, lest ye be judged."

I asked my mom one thing about herself which she would consider to be a success.  She replied, "working, my job."  My mom has been a hair stylist for 57 years and counting.  Her work ethic is absolutely incredible.  I don't remember my mom ever calling in sick to work when I was growing up.  There was that one time when she dropped a couch on her foot, and if I remember correctly, she had broken a toe or even her foot - but even then, I don't think she missed a full day of work.  I'm sure she has now that she's older, but she's the type of woman that when there's work to be done - she just does it.  It doesn't hurt that she absolutely loves her work and her clients.  Her clients have become her friends and extended family. Until just this past week, she's owned her own shop for many of those years.  She unknowingly taught me that if there's something we want in life, we can simply go out and get it.  It doesn't matter how the odds may be stacked against us, and it doesn't matter if we lack the resources.  We can make things happen for ourselves if we try.  It may not be ideal, it may not be the way we dream or envision things for ourselves, it may be far from perfect or fancy - but we can attain a variation of our dreams if we simply set out to do so.

I think part of the reason I got behind these past two weeks, in addition to simply being spread entirely too thin and downright exhausted, is that I knew I would never be able to adequately express my love and adoration for my mom.  This was going to be a challenging post to write.  For someone who dreams of becoming a writer - I'm completely at a loss for finding words sufficient enough to convey my love and emotion.  I love my Mom. It's overwhelming.  Mom, thank you for being such a good mother and woman.  I can never measure up to the kind of person you are, but if there are moments in my life when I can live with even a fraction of your kindness and spirit, then I know those moments are good ones.  I love you.

Day 296 - Adam

This is Adam. He was on his bike and just hanging out at the bottom of Mt. Tabor Park when I met him.  I didn't know when I approached him, but he was waiting for his family who was to meet him there.

I asked Adam the happiest thing happening in his life right now and and he explained that they had just sold their house and are moving back to the East Coast.  You'll never guess how they're going to get there?!  PEDDLE POWER!  Yes, that's right - he and his wife and son are going to ride their bikes all the way back to New Hampshire.  Several legs of their journey will actually be made by train because Adam's son is currently enamored by them.  They anticipate it will be about a 3 month journey back home.

I asked Adam if he had recently performed an act of kindness, and I felt like I was giving him a pop quiz to name the presidents.  I could see him searching his memory and then it was though he felt bad when he couldn't produce a specific act of kindness. He finally just said, "I try to be nice."   Just in the few moments we had been talking, I'm certain he must do at least a half dozen kind acts a day. He's just a nice guy.

When I asked Adam if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one on the spot, he considered the question for a while. Again, I could tell he was getting nervous and a little stressed because he couldn't think of something and he said that he wished his English Teacher wife would arrive so she could help him out.  We laughed.  When I rephrased the question to ask about his life's purpose, he replied, "I want to be the best Dad I can be, and I want to make nice furniture."  Adam is a wood worker and furniture maker.  His website, Gloaming Hour Designs, isn't completely finished but you can check out his website to see a sneak peek of his amazing work.  Did you see that dresser?  It is the most beautiful dresser I've ever seen in my entire life. (Someday, remind me to tell you about my second favorite dresser.)

We only had one last question when Adam's wife and son peddled up on their bike.  Adam gestured over to his wife and gave a quick shout out explanation as to why he was being "interviewed."  I asked Adam one thing about himself which he would consider to be a success and he replied, "I think I'm a quality person when it comes down to it.  I work at it.  I'm an alright dude."

Adam went on to explain that he didn't always feel this way. He's made a conscious decision and made effort to be honest and have compassion for people.  Adam's honest assessment and answer was inspiring.  Adam's response confirms that we can choose to be the kind of person we aspire and desire to be.  If we want to be a good and kind person, we can choose to be one. It doesn't mean we're going to become a saint overnight. We can continue to make progress, even imperfect progress, if we set our sights on becoming a better person.  It doesn't mean we're going to be kind, patient, and compassionate every waking moment of our lives - but we can strive toward it.  We are human. We will lose our patience or our temper.  We will be, at times, less kind that we could have been.  We, at times, will forget to view people or a situation with compassion and empathy.  We, at times, may "flip the bird" to an inconsiderate driver.  We, at times, may be a little abrasive with a customer service person who is simply trying to do their jobs.  But, if we make the conscious decision to be a quality person, and then give it effort to be one, we will improve. Someday, we'll be able to say, "I'm an alright dude."

Adam introduced me to his wife when we were finished and I was able to visit with them a little while longer.  Adam's wife, in her own act of kindness, offered me a chocolate treat she had just picked up from Whole Foods.  I wanted to decline because my hands were filthy from just having done push-ups, but I'm so glad she pretty much insisted.  I don't know what she gave me, but it was the most unique and amazing chocolate experience I've ever had.  (I learned that I've been doing chocolate wrong.)  I'm now going to have to try everything at Whole Foods that even slightly resembles the treat she had given me.

Wishing Adam and his family a safe and fun journey back to the East Coast!  They're a kind couple and this is going to be about he most amazing journey for their little son. They will make memories that will last his entire lifetime, and shape the rest of his life.

Day 297 - Billy Bob

This is Billy Bob.  Were it not for one small thing, you could have been looking at the very best picture I had taken in all 297 days.  But, I blew it.  Again.  I couldn't even share that picture with you.  I met Billy Bob outside of the Hollywood Theater, and you probably remember me saying that basically this whole area has been my nemesis.  No matter what side of the street I'm on, I really, really struggle with getting a good shot there. It's caused me to be determined to get a good shot - and I almost had it with Billy Bob.

I was well aware of the challenges I was facing with the direct sun and the time of day, so I approached things using my head.  I was aware of the sun, where it was in the sky, and how it would affect the picture. I took a few pictures, then moved a little to the left, a little to the right, up a little higher, then down a little lower. I took pictures with and without his glasses, and then finally - I know we were making a great picture.  It was the last picture I had taken and I knew we had nailed it.

When I got home to "develop" the pictures, I discovered a huge problem on the picture I thought was going to be "the picture" - LENS FLARE!!!  Sometimes, a little lens flare is actually kind of cool and there are even aps that add in lens flare - but in this case, it was just wrong, wrong, wrong.  The lens flare was a big spot on Billy Bob's head and it ruined the otherwise beautiful picture.  (The sun was perfectly glowing and Billy Bob was perfectly lit, and he had the most perfect, confident, yet pleasant, look on his face.)  It was one of my best pictures so far and I had really worked at trying to get that shot.  I spent close to 2 hours trying to figure out how to edit out the lens flare spot.  I just don't know enough about lightroom, in spite of the crash course of youtube videos I had watched in the attempt  to learn how to edit it out, and then clone a patch of his hair to fill in the spot once I removed it. I finally just had to give up.

Another lesson learned the hard way.  I've been really good at not picking up the habit of "chimping," but in this case, it hurt me.  "Chimping" is what photographers call the habit of checking each picture you take. The thought is, if you obsess over each picture you take and are constantly checking your LCD screen, then you're going to miss thousands of beautiful photographic opportunities which are right before your eyes. (Because your eyes were buried in your LCD review screen.)  It was a heartbreak and even if I had checked the LCD to make sure it was a good shot, there's nothing to say that we could have perfectly reconstructed that shot again.  Just as in life, the moment the opportunity has passed, we will never have that same exact opportunity again.  The flipside, is that perhaps had I realized the lens flare problem was there, we could have somehow managed an even better shot. Or, maybe not. Maybe even being off by a few inches, would have resulted in a completely different look.   Regardless, I learned that it's in there. I have it in me - I just have a lot to learn.

I asked Billy Bob about the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he replied, "I just started a new job."

Billy Bob's recent act of kindness is that he gave a Street Roots vendor $10.  Street Roots is a program here in Portland where homeless people who sell the Street Roots newspaper, are able to keep the profit from their sales.

"Enough is when there is no more," was Billy Bob's response, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one on the spot.

I asked Billy Bob one thing about himself that he would consider to be a success and he replied, "my interpersonal skills."

Day 298 - Wynn

This is Wynn.  He was sitting outside on a patio table, enjoying a beer, when I pretty much just invited myself to sit down with him.  Luckily, he agreed to let me sit down and take his picture.

I asked Wynn about the happiest thing happening in his life right now - and at that particular moment, he was actually feeling conflicted. He was feeling uncertain about what his future holds in that his job may be transferring him starting September 1st.  Although he was feeling uncertain about the future, he said that he's happy that it's summer, we're having beautiful weather, and he was about to meet a friend for a movie.

When I asked Wynn if he's recently performed an act of kindness, he said that he tries to do an act of kindness every day.  That morning, he had given his boyfriend cash so he would be able to tip the shuttle bus driver who would be taking him to the airport.  Wynn then went on to explained that his job as a flight attendant gives him the opportunity to do kind things every day.  Recently, a pregnant woman on his flight grabbed Wynn's attention and explained to him that she really needed to go throw up, even though the "fasten seatbelt" sign had already came on.  Wynn told her it was ok, helped her to the bathroom, and while she was in the bathroom doing her thing, Wynn had placed a bottle of water on her seat, and if I remember, he even gave her a pillow and blanket too! Wynn was so thoughtful!  The poor woman...Wynn did just the right thing to help bring her a little bit of comfort in probably an otherwise extremely miserable situation.

I asked Wynn if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one on the spot.  He replied, "Don't ever let anything hold you back. Don't limit your life. Don't be afraid to take risks."

One thing about himself which Wynn considers to be a success is that he's "always going on new adventures."

Day 299 - Jake

"I'm getting married, Jake said, when I asked about the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Jake's response was pretty much the most unique answer to this question so far.  When I asked if he had recently performed and act of kindness, he replied, "yeah, I helped a buddy clean a pig skull to mount on a wall."

When I asked Jake if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of  one on the spot, he explained that he didn't have one and wasn't necessarily on board with the idea of having one. So, I continued and rephrased the question to ask about his life's purpose. He replied, "I haven't figured that out yet."  After a talking a little while longer, he shared this, "Do good, feel good. Do bad, feel badly."

I asked Jake one thing about himself he would consider to be a success, and again, he shared with a laugh, "I'm getting married!"

Day 300 - Evan

This is Evan.  This was day 300!!!!

I met Evan down at Portland Waterfront Park.  I got to be a tourist in one of my own cities for the weekend, as I stayed in a hotel in downtown Portland in order to be close to the event site where I would be working over the weekend.

I asked Evan about the happiest thing happening in his life right now, and he said, "I'm just about to have dinner with my Dad."  His dad was in Portland, visiting from the East Coast.

When I asked Evan if he's recently performed and act of kindness, he said that he feels like he does so regularly, but currently, he was helping to mentor a friend who is in the process of opening his own business. Evan is only 28 years old, but has already owned 3 businesses.

"Try to have fun with whatever is put in front of you, " Evan said, is his personal mission statement.

When I asked Evan something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he said that he made the decision to be happy.  He, like Adam from day 296, made the decision to be a nice person and he works at it.  With enough effort, he explained, you can eventually con yourself into becoming a nice person.

Day 301 - Gary

This is Gary. I also met him downtown.  Having to catch up on two weeks worth of posts, has me concerned that I may have lost information.   Although I take notes in my journal, the notes are taken hastily and sometimes I can barely make out my own writing even when I sit down just minutes or hours later.  Now that it's two weeks later, I fear I've lost a bit of our conversations.

So, I'm relying on my memory and my notes and hope I didn't confuse any of the subjects from this particular weekend.  If you're Gary, Evan or Peter James and you happen to read this, my apologies if I'm forgetting something.

The happiest thing happening in Gary's life right now is that he's generally a happy person, and he had just gone for a wonderful run.

When I asked Gary if he had recently performed and act of kindness, he went on to explain that coincidentally, he had found himself in a position to be of assistance to disabled people, on several different occasions, who were having difficulties with accessibility issues.  Basically, they were having trouble entering buildings because the doors were too heavy, or too small, or basically just difficult to enter when in a wheelchair because they weren't as accessible as they could have been.  Gary was able to help them enter/exit the buildings.

"To help the world make it a better place," Gary said, is is personal mission statement.  He wants to help people, to help make our world a better place.

One thing about himself which Gary would consider to be a success is, "I have a job that helps people."

Here's the summary of the wisdom found in the personal mission statements of the subjects from this week:

• Actions speak louder than words. 
• Do unto others as you would have others do unto you.  
• Judge not, lest ye be judged.
• I want to be the best Dad I can be, and I want to make nice furniture.
• Enough is when there is no more.
• Don't ever let anything hold you back. 
• Don't limit your life. 
• Don't be afraid to take risks.
• Do good, feel good. Do bad, feel badly.
• Try to have fun with whatever is put in front of you.
• To help people to help make our world a better place.

Thank you for reading along and a sincere thanks to all of you who have been subjects in this project.  It wouldn't exist without you and thank you for letting me take your picture.

Thank you!

365 Day People Picture Project - Week 42

Hello!We're finished with week 42, of The 365 Day People Picture Project!

I'm preparing to get back on the road for a 5 hour drive home, so we'll get straight to the introductions of the subjects from this week.

Day 288 - Chelsea

This is Chelsea. We only had a few minutes as she was just stepping out from work to feed the parking meter. I walked with her to plug the meter and we talked while we walked.

I asked Chelsea the happiest thing happening in her life right now and she responded, "I really want to go to Africa and things are opening up."

"Everyday kindness is a very powerful," Chelsea replied, when I asked if she had a personal mission statement or if she could think of one on the spot. When I asked Chelsea something about herself which she would consider to be a success, she replied, "I believe in Jesus. I'm a Christian."

Day 289 - Len and Mongoose

Len and Mongoose were soaking up the sun at Esther Short Park. I had no idea when I approached them, that Len is hearing impaired. As I asked him if I could take his picture, he gestured to his ear to let me know he was deaf. I don't know sign language, but I had paper and a pen. I sat down with Len and Mongoose and wrote a note to ask if I could take his picture and explained I would instagram the picture and then tell a story on the blog.

I was happy when Len agreed and it was fun hanging out with the two for a few moments in the bright warm sunshine!

After the pictures, I wrote another note for Len, asking him about the happiest thing happening in his life right now. Len wrote back that he and Mongoose are outdoors all the time! He even joked that he and Mongoose have ADHD and they would rather be outdoors than at home in their apartment.

I only asked Len the one question but stayed with him and Mongoose for a little while longer. I could tell Len was happy about having his picture taken with Mongoose. He gave me his e-mail address and asked if I could e-mail him the pictures. I happily agreed and tried my best to get a portrait of Mongoose that Len would love. (I was struggling with getting a proper picture of the both of them in the bright sun, but I was pleased with Mongoose's picture and hope Len is too!)

Day 290 - Tanner

This is Tanner. He was running at Mt. Tabor. Tanner is currently training for his first half-marathon in 2 weeks!

"School is almost out," Tanner replied, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Tanner's recent act of kindness is that he purchased dinner for a friend who was a little low on money.

"Progress, not perfection," Tanner replied, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or could think of one on the spot.

When I asked Tanner one thing about himself which he would consider to be a success, he replied, "I quit drinking and drugs." I congratulated him and we talked about how spending “happy hour” at Mt. Tabor, training, beats any happy hour around!

Good luck at the race, Tanner. As my friend Molly always says, “may your feet have wings!” Day 291 - Arthur

This is Arthur. We met near Portland State University.

"I just had a good dinner, and I'm getting good grades," Arthur replied, when I asked about the happiest thing happening in his life.

Arthur also just finished writing a screenplay! I was exited to hear of his huge accomplishment and asked what he planned to do with it next. He laughed and said it was awful, so he'd most likely do nothing with it. Knowing we're always our own worst critic, I wanted to encourage him not to dismiss it so quickly. I also learned that Arthur just finished his own 365 Day Project in which he worked on writing a play, every day, for an entire year! Arthur has ambition and the burning desire sustained him enough to write every day for a year - I don't think this is the last we'll see of Arthur!

"Be happy for those who are happy. Be sad for those who are sad. Be indifferent to those who are wicked," was Arthur's response when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one on the spot.

Wishing you lots of success with your writing, Arthur! Hmmm, if my friend Molly’s wish for runners had an equivalent for writers, maybe it would be - may inspiration always find you and the words flow easily. Or maybe it would be - may your ideas have wings! However we package the wish - may you find success!

Day 292 - Ambert

This is Ambert. He was waiting outside the Hollywood Theatre when I approached to ask if I could take his picture.

When I asked Ambert about the happiest thing happening in his life right now, he replied, "I just started dating a new girl." Ambert also loves his work.

I asked Ambert if he had performed a recent act of kindness and that's when he went on to explain more about his job. Ambert is a massage therapist at Asha Integrative Wellness and he considers his job as an opportunity for kindness. Ambert wants to make people happy and help them to feel better.

"Spread love and light," Ambert replied, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one on the spot. It was obvious in just the few moments I spent with Ambert that he does indeed spread love and light, and I was a lucky recipient.

After the pictures and "interview," Ambert gave me a hug and we wished each other well and I was on my way. Indeed, feeling happy and better!

I can't find the words to explain to you how amazing and enriching the experience is of stopping to talk with a stranger, and within a few moments, you’re exchanging hugs and well wishes with one another. Strangers becoming friends. Granted, the friendship is one of only a 5 minute duration, and we'll most likely never see one another again, but the impact of these little 5-minute friendships is life-changing. These interactions have been like a little jump-start for my heart and attitude. They give me a charge and help me to recover from, or cope with, the other times throughout the day which aren't as positive. Can you imagine if you gave yourself the opportunity to meet a new 5-minute friend each day? How would your life change? How would it affect the life of your 5-minute friend?

Day 293 - Rick

This is Rick. He was getting gas in the car in front of me. "Going to the beach to go surfing," Rick replied, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now. He was filling up and heading out to go surf!

When I asked Rick if he had recently performed and act of kindness, at first, he was stumped for an answer. Then it hit him, hit us both, actually. I had just witnessed Rick's act of kindness. Oregon still has gas station attendants who pump the gas for you and at a full service station, they even still wash your windows and check your oil. I had watched with my own eyes, Rick had just tipped the gas station attendant when they completed their transaction. That was his act of kindness! I was happy to be able to see Rick's act of kindness, and then all of the sudden it hit me. Is tipping the gas station attendant normal and "expected?" Have I been neglecting tip etiquette for all of these years? Rick and I talked about it and tipping a gas attendant is pretty rare, and makes Rick's gesture even more kind because it is unexpected, but very much appreciated. (as I witnessed by how appreciative the attendant was with Rick's kindness.) Rick also feels his job as a geologist helps him to do good for the planet.

When I asked Rick if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one on the spot, he replied, "Everyone has a place - no job is more important than another." I loved this sentiment and again, was reminded of the book, "The Leader who had no Title," by Robin Sharma. I asked Rick if he had read the book because what he had said was so in line with the message of the book. For example, gas station attendants are more than station attendants. They are people who gave us the fuel to get Rick on the road to surfing, and me on the road to work. They did more than pump gas, they gave us friendly and helpful service and set us up to have a better day! I asked Rick something about himself he would consider to be a success, and he said that he thinks he is good - morally and ethically.

Day 294 - Denise and Zac

I met Denise and Zac, in Veteran's Park in Klamath Falls, Oregon. I made a quick trip to Southern Oregon, to visit my Mom, and am here now just preparing to get back on the road.

I had been around family earlier in the day, but the timing just wasn't right to ask any of my family if I could take their picture. I'm sad about that, but happy I was able to at least see them in person.

"We're on a three week road trip," Zac replied, when I asked about the happiest thing happening in their lives right now. Zac and Denise were just 24 hours into their trip when we met at the park. Denise told me about a funny sign they had just driven past in another small town. The sign outside of a restaurant read, "now serving good food." We laughed and I imagine and hope this was the first of many happy memories for them on their 3 week adventure.

I asked the couple if they had recently performed an act of kindness. They thought for a while as they were trying to recall a recent kind act. They're both sure they do everyday acts of kindness such as holding the door open for people. Denise then went on to say that she visited with some elderly ladies at a quilt shop which they had stopped into in a tiny little Northern California town. She questioned whether that was an act of kindness and we determined it was a very kind thing. Denise is a pleasant person and I'm sure it made the elderly ladies' day to have an out-of-towner from LA visit with them and sign their guest book. Denise and Zac could have very easily blown through the town in a hurry to get back on the road, but Denise took the time to hang out in the quilt shop with the elderly quilters. Kindness can be more than giving money or things to people in need. Kindness is sharing of ourselves. (Sharing the best of ourselves.)

Zac's act of kindness is that so far, he's been the driver on the first leg of their journey. I asked the pair if they had personal mission statements or if they could think of one. Denise borrowed her friend's quote - "trample the earth." She wanted to point out that the word "trample" sounds destructive but it's intention is to explore the world, not actually trampling it. Very fitting, considering they were just about to explore the west coast and Canada! Zac's personal mission statement - “live without regrets.”

When I asked something about themselves which they would consider to be a success, Denise immediately responded, "I feel like I'm pretty resilient." Zac thought, and considered, and pondered, and stewed...and then Denise suggested a response, "you're very good at over-thinking things." We laughed and Zac decided to go with it, saying that he's successful at being well thought-out and considerate of all possible options. I was happy to have met this cute and nice LA couple in the small town where I had grown up. I thought for sure I would run into an old friend at the park and it was kind of ironic to run into tourists, as I'm feeling a bit like a tourist myself.

Wishing them lots of fun and great memories, and a safe road trip!

Here’s the summary of the personal mission statements from this week:

• Progress, not perfection.
• Be happy for those who are happy. Be sad for those who are sad. Be indifferent to those who are wicked.
• Spread love and light.
• Everyone has a place - no job is more important than another.
• Trample the earth.
• Live without regrets.

Thank you for checking in this week. If you were a subject in this project - thank you for your kindness! Thank you for being a part of this project and sharing yourself with us.

Please remember - next week is going to be the busiest week of the year for me at work, so next Sunday's post may come a few hours late. (or possibly as late as monday.) Don't worry - i'm still taking the daily pictures but I may just need a little extra time to be able to pause long enough to share them here. You can also follow me on instagram - my user name is @missellanea.

Wishing you an excellent week and I hope you'll give yourself the opportunity to meet a few new 5-minute friends!

Thank you!

365 Day People Picture Project - Week 41

Hello! Thank you for checking in on week 41 of The 365 Day People Picture Project!

If this is your first visit, I've challenged myself to take a picture of a person, every day, for an entire year.  I had never owned a real camera, other than just point and shoot.  (and it was film!)  My intention was to learn how to operate my new DSLR, and to learn the art of photography.  I feel the only thing I can say about my progress, so far, is that I've learned how to approach a stranger and talk with them without feeling like I could possibly die of shyness.   The process of forcing myself to approach and interact with strangers has been exhausting, but also completely rewarding and life-changing.

It's almost as though I'm becoming re-wired.  Before starting this project, I was always operating in the red on the stressed-out-o-meter.  The only time I wasn't intensely contemplating work or life pressures, was when I was walking or hiking my favorite trails and parks.   This project has forced me to get out of my own stressed-out head and to really see the people around me.  Some of whom are also equally intense, or some people who seem to be the complete opposite and who seem to have mastered the ability to be completely present.  It seems that no matter what our moods may have been at the moment I met each subject, I think we both left our interaction feeling a boost of happiness!

I've left each interaction feeling like my life was a little more enriched and I left feeling a slight honor that a person was willing to let me take their picture, and willing to share a little something about themselves.  Now when I'm out and about, I make a conscious effort to spread smiles and act with patience and kindness.   So many people in this project have shared their smiles and patience with me...I want to keep passing it on.  It is my hope that this little project inspires you to feel and do the same.

Day 281 - Brandon, Ted and Fozzie

I met Brandon, Ted (the light dog) and Fozzie (the black dog) down at Esther Short Park, in Vancouver.   I spotted Brandon and his wife and their canine kids when I first arrived at the park but I was a little hesitant on asking them if I could take their picture.  I knew if they agreed, I would be in for a big challenge.  By now you know how I am about group pictures, then add in a pair of dogs, and I wasn't sure I could manage.  It was also starting to down-pour, and both Brandon and his wife were wearing bright Steelers gold jackets.  I had realized that I hadn't ever taken a picture of such bright colors and although it sounds funny, I was intimidated by the color.

I was glad I finally got up the nerve to approach them.  Brandon and his wife were new to the area and so friendly!  I was happy to be part of the unofficial welcoming committee.

I asked Brandon the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he responded, "waking up everyday, doing this, and nature!"  Brandon just moved from Arizona and he and his wife have already fallen in love with all of our green!  They love spending time in nature and are enjoying the huge contrast between the Northwest and the desert.

I asked if Brandon had recently performed an act of kindness and he explained they had just adopted Ted at the Doggie Dash the week before.  The way Ted and Fozzie were playing and loving each other, I thought they were old pals!  I'm so happy for Ted and his new home with Brandon and his wife!  Ted came with a long list of potential issues and negative traits and Brandon and his wife were prepared for a rough settling-in period but it sounds like Ted has been a dream of a dog. I would have never guessed they hadn't all been a family-unit for years.

I asked Brandon if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one on the spot.  He's actually a person who has given it some thought and he said that it's been redesigned the past year, but right now he's decided on, "find a way to be happy."

I asked Brandon something about himself he would consider to be a success and he replied, "my three men."  The youngest of his 3 sons is graduating and now he's happy to be "sending three men off into life."

Day 282 - Wendy

This is Wendy.  We met at Mt. Tabor park.

"Just digging being healthy, deep breathing, and being alive," Wendy responded, when I asked about the happiest thing happening in her life right now.

Wendy's recent act of kindness is that she had just given a donation to a Church group, and she didn't take the chocolate they were "selling."  We joked that resisting the candy was also an act of kindness for her self, especially after working so hard at Tabor to be healthy.

When I asked Wendy if she had a personal mission statement or if she could think of one, she said that it is actually something she's had on her to-do list for a while.  Her current working personal mission statement is, "opening my heart, cultivating love and kindness, and finding ways to be of service."

Throughout this project, I've been amazed there have been a few people who have actually been giving thought to the idea of developing a personal mission statement.  If they hadn't fully decided on a personal mission statement, they've been at least prepared with some sort of guiding quote or the beginnings of their personal mission statements.  Equally amazing, have been the people who have been able to come up with an impromptu personal mission statement which has been quite meaningful and powerful.  Has reading the mission statements from the people in this project inspired you to write your own?

"I'm a good listener," Wendy replied, when I asked her one thing about herself she would consider to be a success.

Wendy and I visited for a while after the "interview" and pictures.   This project is making the world even smaller.  When I go to the park, I usually end up seeing several people who have been subjects in this project and we now exchange greetings and well wishes.  Since most of the people I meet at Tabor are there working out, it's been nice meeting new fitness friends and acquaintances.

Day 283 - Ryland

I've seen Ryland and his dog around a few times.  I've even tried to chase after him once, but he was peddling way too fast for me to catch.  There's only so many footsteps you can take when you chase after a person before you cross that line from simply trying to catch someone's attention, to being a weirdo who is, well, chasing after someone!  This time, he and his dog were going slow enough for Ryland to see and hear me when I called out to get his attention.

There were several other dogs around, and some traffic, at the time Ryland stopped so he decided his dog would be most comfortable just hanging out in its crate-trailer.  Ryland and I talked about how much we appreciate and enjoy the park.  He and his dog were on their way to go watch the sun set.  (Watching the sun set from Mt. Tabor Park is one of the very best activities in Portland.  It's worth putting on your must-do list.)

"I'm getting to climb a lot," Ryland said, is the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Ryland was having difficulty remembering if he had performed a recent act of kindness.  He seemed like a considerate and nice enough person, I knew he must have done something.  I pushed a little, explaining it could be any gesture of kindness.  He remembered that, earlier, he had held the door open for a person.  Yes, as simple as this is, isn't it a great act of kindness?  I love it when people take that extra moment to hold the door open for you and share a smile.

Ryland's personal mission statement is a quote from the poem, Wild Geese, by Mary Oliver, "you only have to let the soft animal of your body love what it loves."

When I asked Ryland something about himself he would consider to be a success, he replied, "I convinced Vanessa to marry me."  I thought he and his wife must be newlyweds for such a sweet sentiment, but he said they'd been married about three years.  We then tried to decide on a definition of "newlywed," and decided three years is still the "newlywed" phase.

Day 284 - Matt

This is Matt.  We met downtown Portland, near PSU.

I asked Matt the happiest thing happening in his life right now, and he responded, "my daughter."

"To learn everything I can," Matt replied, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one on the spot.

When I asked Matt one thing about himself which he would consider to be a success, he replied, "my thirst for knowledge."

Matt and I talked a little while longer and I asked him about his hopes and dreams.  He hopes to be able to get to a point where he can afford, outright, to send his daughter to college, and to buy a home.  We talked about his dreams being more grounded and practical than some, but what a beautiful dream.  I'm wishing Matt luck and success in making those dreams a reality.

I don't often get to go downtown but since I had a meeting on the westside after work, I decided to head downtown after the meeting let out.  Matt was just one of a hundred different people within a few block radius who I could have asked to be in this project.  I had the realization that I've had additional challenges with this project, simply because of my routine and location.  If I could spend more time in downtown Portland, I would have thousands of potential subjects.  As it is, it's been quite the challenge to find a person during my routine of: commute, work, work-out, commute home.  Although I love the idea of having hundreds or thousands of different subjects to choose from within a few block area, I've also mostly enjoyed the added challenge of having to actually search for a subject.  It makes me appreciate the process that much more, and makes me extremely appreciative when I do find people who will let me take their picture.  I don't know if this makes sense, but it would almost be "too easy," were I able to spend a ton of time in downtown Portland.

Day 285 - Joseph

This is Joseph.  We met when he was waiting for the bus.  I was feeling like people-repellent this day and was just about to decide this was going to be the day for my self-portrait.  Luckily, I met Joseph and he was willing to let me take his picture!

"I just got a promotion," Joseph said, is the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

When I asked if he had recently performed an act of kindness, he said that some kids in his line at work came up a few dollars short on their purchase, so he paid the difference for them.

I asked Joseph if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one on the spot.  He was having trouble thinking of one, so I rephrased the question and asked about his life's purpose or hopes and dreams.   Joseph said he has dreams to travel the world.

Joseph was reserved in answering if there was something about himself which he would consider to be a success.  I pushed a little for an answer and knew he must have something.  I was going to remind him about his recent promotion if he couldn't think of an answer.  I again pushed a little and explained if it's difficult to think of something as a success, then what's something you're good at?  "Sports," Joseph replied.

Day 286 - Kestrel

Kestral was waiting for the bus when I sat down at the bench beside him to ask if I could take his picture.  Kestral agreed, but then went on to say that he isn't photogenic.  When people have told me this before, I explain to them that I totally understand and that's the reason I'm behind the camera!  I can completely empathize with people who don't really enjoy having their picture taken.  When I hear of this, it makes it really important to me to get a nice picture.  I want people to feel good about themselves!  I love the picture of Kestral and that you can detect his personal style and hope that if he sees this picture, he will be pleased.  This particular spot is a challenge to me and I struggle with getting the iconic Hollywood sign in the background. One of these days, I'll get it just right and perfectly capture both a nice portrait and a cool view of the Hollywood sign in the background.

When I asked Kestrel about the happiest thing happening in his life right now, he replied, "my partner."

Kestrel's impromptu personal mission statement, "going forward because you can't go back."

I asked Kestrel one thing about himself he would consider to be a success and he replied, "the equity work at the job I'm doing."

I thanked Kestrel and we were on our separate ways.

Day 287 - Delray

This is Delray.  We also met at a bus stop where she and her son were waiting for their bus.

I asked Delray about the happiest thing happening in her life and she replied, "I'm working."

When I asked Delray if she had recently performed and act of kindness, she said that she had just given a woman a bus pass.

Defining a personal mission statement was proving to be challenging for Delray. I had given examples of other people's personal mission statements, but Delray was still having trouble thinking of a personal mission statement.  I presented it a few different ways, and then explained that it's like a personal motto or statement which guides you in living your life.  After hearing it presented in this way, Delray then replied, "try not to sin."

When I asked Delray if there's something about herself she would consider to be a success, she considered the question for a while but she just couldn't think of an answer. She finally explained that she used to think she was successful at being a good mom.  She then gestured to her very energetic and curious son, and said, "but sometimes he won't listen to me now." We talked about it and I pointed out my observation that even though he wasn't  listening, she was still very patient with him, and that's a good mother.  Delray then decided on her answer and replied, "parenting."

Delray is a beautiful young lady and I got the feeling she's as beautiful on the inside as she is on the out!

Here's a summary of the mission statements of the people from this week:

• Find a way to be happy.
• Opening my heart, cultivating love and kindness, and finding ways to be of service.
• "You only have to let the soft animal of your body love what it loves."
• To learn everything I can.
• To travel the world.
• Going forward because you can't go back.
• Try not to sin.

If you've been a subject in this project  - thank you for allowing me to take your picture and for sharing a little of your life with us!  Please don't hesitate to e-mail me if you'd like a copy of your picture and I'd be happy to e-mail it to you.

Thank you for following another week of this project.  I just want to give you the heads up that the next two weeks are going to be pretty bumpy!  They're the busiest two weeks for me at my work.  I'm going to be out of town one weekend, and staying on-site at an event the following weekend.  I'll still post the daily pictures to instagram, @missellanea, but please know the blog post may be a little delayed.  Don't worry.  Everything is ok and I'm not giving up the project.  It'll just be a particularly challenging and busy couple of weeks and I'll post as soon as I'm able to.

Have a great week!

365 Day People Picture Project - Week 40

Hello! Week 40 of The 365 Day People Picture Project is now a wrap!

Day 274 - Mom, Daughter, and Dog

Sunday was Mother's Day and since I'm over a couple hundred miles away from my own Mom, I wanted to find a Mother & Daughter to be the people of the day.

I met these three in the park.  They didn't have much time to spare, as they were just on a quick break from work.

We had time for just one question, so I asked about the happiest thing happening in their lives right now and they both agreed, "moving back to Vancouver."

I wished them a happy Mother's Day and welcomed them back home, and we were all on our way.

And have you noticed that nearly every dog I've met at Esther Short Park, in Vancouver, has that same intense focus on something other than posing for a portrait?   I think there's one distracting squirrel who's ruining all of my shots!

Day 275 - Jen

This is Jen.  She was waiting for the bus.  I looked all the way up the street and didn't see a bus in sight, so I decided to ask her if I could take her picture.  Of course, it magically appeared as soon as we got started.

We had just enough time for one question.  "I have a new boyfriend that I like...so, falling in love," Jen replied, when I asked about that happiest thing happening in her life right now.

I blew everything this day.  When I got home to "develop" the picture, I realized how harsh the sunlight was and how simply turning could have made for a much better picture.  I was so tempted to go back out and find a new person, but I decided to keep this one because I really liked Jen, and also to share my mistakes with you.  The pros always say never to show your bad work and to only share your best images. I'm not a pro.  You've been with me and know I'm just learning, so I just wanted to share that process with you. Just when I start to make progress and learn a thing or two, the weather changes and I get tripped up again.  People who are real photographers are pretty amazing. Until starting this project, I've never fully understood or appreciated all of the hard work that goes into a nice photograph. I think sharing my mistakes,  helps to exemplify the quality work of other real professionals or artists.  Seeing my mistakes helps me to see just how great the work is of other real artists and professionals.

Day 276 - Kevin

This is Kevin.  He was nice enough to stop mid-run so that I could take his picture.

The happiest thing happening in Kevin's life right now is, "taking over a new house."

When I asked if he had performed an act of kindness, he said that he's having his younger brother move in with him at the new house, for very low rent.  He wasn't sure if that counted as an act of kindness, but yes, it does.

Kevin's impromptu personal mission statement is, "to leave it better than I found it, and to give a voice to the voiceless."

I asked Kevin one thing about himself which he would consider to be a success, and Kevin replied, "that I'm happy!"

Are you starting to notice some reoccurring themes here?

Day 277 - Lindsay & Beatrix

High Five!

I met Lindsay and Beatrix as they were finishing their walk/run.  Again, having been tripped up by the sun the past few days, I made it a point to have us move into the shade, but we didn't go quite far enough under the tree to escape the harsh sun.

Beatrix is clearly Lindsay's well trained little pal!

I asked about the happiest thing happening in her life right now and Lindsay replied, "the house we bought on Mt. Tabor."  If Beatrix could talk, I know being in the "taborhood" would be the happiest thing for her as well!

Lindsay & Beatrix's recent act of kindness is that they participated in the "Doggie Dash" fundraiser.

I asked Lindsay if she had a personal mission statement or if she could think of one on the spot.  Lindsay replied, "to do one small thing to better your life, every day."

When I asked Lindsay one thing about which she would consider herself to be a success, she replied, "my relationship with my husband."

Day 278 - Matt, Brooke, and Winslow

I met Matt and Winslow as they were waiting outside of a drug store. I loved the very first picture I snapped of Winslow, but I blew it by not getting enough of Matt in the frame.  Winslow gave me that one picture, but he was finished after that. His focus was on something else.

I later learned that his focus was on Brooke, who had been in the store for all of an eternity.  Well you know, 5 minutes is an eternity for a dog.  We eventually ended up with another cute shot of Matt and Winslow, but when Brooke came out of the store and joined us, I wanted to get the whole family.

Winslow was so excited to be reunited with his mom after the exhaustive few-minute wait, that he just couldn't contain himself!

I asked Matt and Brooke the happiest thing happening in their lives right now.  Matt replied, "Brooke and Winslow."  Brook replied, "everybody that I care about is healthy."

I asked Matt if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one.  He was having trouble, but I pushed a little, and he settled on, "everybody changes."

When I asked Matt and Brooke if they could name something about themselves which they would consider to be a success, Matt again stalled a little in his answer but Brooke offered up that, "he grows really good plants."  Being that this is Portland, I laughed and asked if it was ok (legal) to talk about his plants.  Matt then explained that he's a botany student and he's been able to successfully grow a rare, tropical, carnivorous plant which is extremely difficult to grow.

Brooke's success is that she's doing things that she enjoys, and she's successful in her job.

Winslow, Sir-Licks-a-Lot, is successful at being the best doggie kisser in the world.

I should mention, it's been really important of me to get flattering photographs of people.  I explained to Brooke that I thought I had captured Winslow right as he was giving her kisses and it was so cute, but that of course she was making the squinchy-face we all make when we're the lucky recipient of our dog's lovin' kisses.  She was ok with it.

I know the quality and technical aspects were off with both Beatrix from the day before, and Winslow from this day, but these are two of my most favorite pictures!

Day 279 - "Blackwell"

I named this guy "Blackwell," because we met as we were walking outside of Blackwell's Pub.  When I stopped "Blackwell" to ask if I could take his picture, he was agreeable, but uncertain.  He wanted to defer giving me his name until after I had asked the questions.  After our pictures and "interview," "Blackwell" asked for my name, gave me a hug, we wished each other well, and we were on our way.  It wasn't until I got home that I had realized I hadn't learned his name!

The happiest thing happening in Blackwell's life is the growth of his career, and he's excited about the next phase in his life, settling down, and buying a home.

The rest of our interaction is not actually "quotable," for the reason that it was like we were just a couple of friends talking.   It was less interview-like, and more like we were just having a conversation.  Blackwell is open and frank and he shared so much, I wasn't able to write everything down word-for-word.  I'll just share some of our conversation.

When I asked Blackwell if he had performed an act of kindness, he replied that he'll do anything he can to help a person who's trying to help themselves.  He explained that he has an acquaintance who recently went into treatment.  The growth and progress the person has made in just a few weeks in treatment is actually apparent in their physical appearance.  Entering treatment, however, meant that the person has been off work for a few weeks.  Blackwell gave the person some money to help him out until he's back on his feet again.

I asked Blackwell if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one on the spot.  When I saw that he was having trouble thinking of a personal "mission statement," I explained that we could think of the question instead, as what is your life's purpose?  Blackwell  then listed so many things I couldn't even keep up!  He wants to take care of his family. He wants to raise a a child in an environment different from what he was raised in.  He wants to live a simple life. He would like to give back what he's learned and he wants people to value what's inside and in their hearts, instead of  the "things" in life.

When I asked Blackwell if there's something about himself to be a success, he replied, "myself!"

I sometimes forget to ask, but I do like to ask people if they have anything they would like to promote - such as their own blog, website, art, music, business, etc.  I remembered to ask Blackwell and although he didn't have anything we could link to here, he said he'd like to promote for people to "slow down."  Life passes us by fast enough.

Day 280 - Willy

I met Willy at Mt. Tabor Park.   He was just peddling into the park.  I had finished my stair workout and decided to sit down and wait for a person to come by so I could ask to take their picture.

The park is entirely different on the weekend than it is during the weekday happy hour.  During the weekday, the park is filled with tons of walkers, runners and cyclists.  Saturday, although there were lots of people, it felt as though I couldn't find a subject.  There were lots of large groups or families and I didn't want to interrupt their time.  A few individual people passed by, but I just didn't feel they were approachable for whatever reason. I had been waiting so long that I finally told myself I was giving it five more minutes and that was it!  I knew that within five minutes, I was either going to find my cue to leave and search elsewhere, or I would meet someone particularly special.  Willy came by at about 4 minutes and 30 seconds.

Just as the day before, talking with Willy felt familiar.  Again, it was as though we were old friends, catching up, not complete strangers who just met.  We said so much in just a few minutes, I couldn't even keep up.  I end up reaching a point where I abandon my effort to take notes, and just enjoy the conversation and the person before me.

When I asked Willy about the happiest thing happening in his life, he replied, "lots of learning going on."  As soon as Willy said that, I got the feeling that his response was an optimistic outlook of, perhaps, some not-so-happy things.  Seeking clarification, I asked if he was a student.  He then explained that he wasn't a student, but that he now has a new awareness of things.  Again, seeking clarification, I questioned if these were bad things and explained the reason I was asking is because I, personally,  seem to learn the most when I "learn it the hard way."  He laughed and agreed that yes, life is like that. It's easier for us to learn the hard way, and through bad things, because life presents the lesson to us immediately!  He's experiencing both good and the bad, but he can appreciate the clarity and directness of life's lessons which are delivered the hard way, or when we experience something negative.    It's like life is telling us...here's this bad thing that happened, and here is the lesson you were to have learned from it.  See how "easy" that is?

Willy's job has a co-worker recognition program and Willy's recent act of kindness is that he acknowledged and nominated some of co-workers for a job well done.

When I asked Willy if he had a personal mission statement, or if he could think of one on the spot, he said that he hadn't defined a personal mission statement...and he's thought they were a little funny.  Pushing for an answer, I re-phrased the question and asked about his life's purpose.  Thinking it would help him to narrow down the response, it actually broadened it.  Willy went on to say that he doesn't even know or understand his life's purpose.  He's fascinated, and basically in awe, of the hugeness of it all.   Willy's face lit up when he began talking about the possibilities of his life's purpose and at the same time, I could see that it was both liberating and perplexing.   Willy is so respectful of life and he said he knows that he can't even begin to understand the meaning of it all.

Willy and I talked some more, and still trying for an answer, I tried to present the question from  a third perspective.  I asked how one could go about reaching their goals. (Thinking this is essentially parallel to a mission statement or determining our life's purpose.)  Willy responded that in order to reach goals, "you identify your goals."  Yes!  My head is still all twisted thinking about our conversation.  I agree with Willy in that it feels nearly impossible to define a personal mission statement or life's purpose, but Willy's response of, "you identify your goals," makes things all so cyclical.

Does our life's purpose or personal mission statement define us, or do we define our life's purpose and personal mission statement?  Do we become who and what we declare ourselves to be? Or do we wander and discover our life's purpose as though it's been there all along and the universe is just waiting for us to happen upon it?  Are we active in determining our life's purpose, or are we to be passive and just discover it?   What I do know, is that identifying goals and developing a personal mission statement, has brought me the closest to feeling like I'm either on the path, or near the path, of discovering, or defining, my life's purpose. We have to have definiteness of purpose and amazingly, we do have the ability to define and shape our purpose.  Identifying goals, and laying out the outline of our lives, such as by defining a personal mission statement, are the steps needed to fulfilling our life's purpose.  I could have talked with Willy for hours!

Although I didn't ask, I would be willing to bet that Willy must be a creative person (artist, musician, or both) and one who has a number of different talents.  It's been my experience that people who are skilled and gifted in several different areas, are often the ones who find it challenging to chose or declare one set path.  They're so talented, their options are unlimited and they're keeping them all open.

When I asked Willy something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he said that he's been successful of escaping the burden of being forced to be a particular type of person, and that he's not governed by external ideas such as being what is considered cool, or popular, etc.  He's just who he is.

I'm not going to summarize this week's personal mission statements since I didn't get the opportunity to ask two of the people from this week, and because we were basically freestylin' with Blackwell and Willy.

A huge thanks to each and every subject in this project. I appreciate your time and your kindness! If you would like a copy of your picture, please send an e-mail and I would be happy to e-mail you!

Thank you for following along for another week!

Have a good one!

365 Day People Picture Project - Week 39

Hello! We're finished with week 39 of The 365 Day People Picture Project!

If this is your first visit, I've challenged myself to take a picture of a person, every day, for an entire year.  My objective was to become proficient enough in photography so that I would be able to have images for this newly-hatched blog.  I had no idea when I started this blog that I would start this project, and I didn't know when I started this project that it would become the entire blog.

Although I've made some improvement in the quality of the pictures I take, I've realized this project took a turn and became less about photography and learning to use my camera, and more about discovering the kindness and friendliness in people, stepping way outside of one's comfort zone, and fulfilling the challenge to myself to do this thing I said I would do for an entire year.

The majority of the pictures have been of strangers, but also included are a few friends, family, co-workers and acquaintances.  I post each daily picture to instagram and if you'd like to follow along, my username is @missellanea.

Day 267 - Leo

Leo.  Leo. Leo.  Wow!

I'd like to be able to tell you that because of this project, I now have an amazing eye to scout talent.  However, Leo came as quite a beautiful surprise.  As I was walking to the convention center to meet up with my friends for another dance competition, I spotted Leo immediately! I didn't spot him for the obvious reasons.  I simply saw a person who was standing still, not waiting for a bus, and who didn't appear to be in any sort of rush.  All of these increase my chances that a person will let me take their picture.  Ok, I confess, I did spot a pair of very tall legs but from where I was coming, I had no idea of the person who was attached to those legs.

When I approached Leo to ask if I could take his picture, I instantly got a great vibe from him.  He's another one of those people who just sort of oozes niceness.  He agreed to let me take his picture and made a joking remark about " don't tell my agent," which sort of just floated past me.  That is, it floated past me until I got him in front of the camera.  As soon as we started to take the pictures and as I was looking at him through the view finder, I said, "whoa, you really are a model!"  Leo confirmed, yes he was actually a model. The joke about an agent wasn't entirely just a joke.  The feeling I got with having a professional model in front of me was noticeably different to how it has "felt" with nearly all of the other people in this project.  There have been about a half-dozen people in this project who have had modeling experience or who could be models, or who are at least quite comfortable and familiar with being in front of the camera.

Other than those people, one challenge during this project has been learning how to put both the subject and myself at ease during our brief and awkward encounter.  Once we make a little connection, then the next step is to capture their image as they're loosening up and their little sparkle begins to shine. It was INSTANTLY recognizable to me, Leo was special and different. As soon as I saw him through the viewfinder, there was no waiting for his sparkle or for him to relax.  The man belongs in front of a camera! You can't miss his sparkle.

And of course, what did I do with all of his sparkleness?  Well, I froze and went from feeling quite connected and comfortable with him, to feeling horribly intimidated and inadequate!  This is going to sound bizarre but if you've been following along, you know that I battle insecurities and a lack of confidence which comes from being so inexperienced and uneducated about my camera and photography.  I felt like I wasn't worthy of taking this beautiful model's picture and I felt a great deal of pressure to perform well, given that I had such a beautiful person in front of me.

I've mentioned before, you can have the most beautiful person in front of you, but it's still surprisingly easy to take a bad picture of a beautiful person.  And I'm quite good at taking bad pictures!  The difference was Leo.  Leo's personality grounded me and helped me just to chill out, and take a damn picture.  Once I took the first picture, I was able to ease into a flow and actually "work" with him so that together, we could get a nice image.  I ended up having several decent pictures of Leo, but I intentionally chose this one.  Is this ok to say about a man? Leo is beautiful. He's quite pretty, and all of the pictures I had taken of him were beautiful and they came out just as nice as he is as a person.  You could look at the pictures and just know he is a nice person.  But I didn't want nice.  I'll explain more below.

When I asked Leo about the happiest thing happening in his life right now, he replied, I'm trying out for "Grimm" and starting my own radio show."  Leo is trying out to be one of the villains on the T.V. show "Grimm," which is filmed here in Portland.  I joked and questioned whether or not they would be able to ugly-him enough to be one of the scary bad guys. (If you haven't ever watched the show, it's a pretty awesome show and the villains transform from normal-looking humans into nightmarish monsters!  Let's face it, if Leo came to you in a dream, it wouldn't be a nightmare.)  Once I learned this, it became my mission to see Leo in a way other than the sweet and beautiful person who was standing before me. I wanted to see him a little rough. So, what did we do?  We broke out the squinch! (watch Photographer Peter Hurley's Squinch video here)

In a weird twist, we went from being a pair consisting of a confident and experienced professional model + a girl with a camera who was practically shaking in her boots, to a confident and professional model + a girl with a camera who knew one of the greatest modeling/headshot techniques in the world, and I was going to teach it to him!  Yes! Can you believe it?   After settling down and in, I then explained Peter Hurley's squinch to Leo, and that the technique will result in a look that is edgy, sexy, and pensive.  He absolutely nailed it!  I was so pleased with this interaction. Leo is an amazing model, but I was able to contribute one small technique and together, we created a beautiful image.

Technically speaking, my first pictures were actually a little more technically sound as far as the focus and his positioning (composition), but this was my favorite picture and in looking at this, I believe Leo could become one of those scary villains on Grimm.  At the same time, if I opened a magazine and he were the model for cologne, sunglasses, underwear, or anything, I would be sold on whatever it is he was "selling," and my husband would be the recipient of said cologne, sunglasses, or underwear!

After we had taken the pictures and performed the interview, Leo showed me some pictures his friend shot in a makeshift studio which was his apartment.  Leo was in full make-up. I don't know the proper industry words, but he was styled quite high fashion-y, with heavy, artistic, theatrical make-up and the pictures were stunning!  Especially considering they were just taken in his friend's apartment and not an actual studio. His friend was a pretty amazing photographer, and of course, Leo is pretty amazing.  I appreciated the huge contrast between Leo's friend's professional studio-looking dramatic photographs, and my total amateur look-at-this-hot-guy-I-met-on-the-street photographs.  Although there's a marked difference in the type and quality of images, the one constant is Leo and his talent in front of a camera.

I was hoping Leo would have a website or link so that we could follow the podcast for his new raido show, but since things are in their infancy,  I'll be sure to keep track of Leo and share his progress so we can follow along.

I told you Leo was nice, but hearing this completely warmed my heart.  When I asked Leo if he had recently performed an act of kindness, he told me that he saw a homeless man who was hungry, so Leo went and bought him some food, and then he gave the man the food and $20.00.  Leo said, "he needed it."

It has sometimes been confusing and overwhelming for people when I ask the question about having a personal mission statement. This week, I've elaborated on that and explained that if it's challenging to think of a personal mission statement, then think of it as "what is your life's purpose."  When I asked Leo about his life's purpose, he replied, "to get my show going to develop culture centered around art and music."

When I asked Leo something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he replied, "the fact that I signed a new modeling contract with a new company."

I'm wishing Leo huge success with his modeling, acting and radio show and he's clearly a talented person.  To me, even more impressive, is that he was genuinely a kind and very nice person and I'm so glad I bumped into him.  Good luck, Leo!

Day 268 - Renee

This is Renee, the owner of Ambiance Tan and Espresso.  Can you tell I've got a serious mexi-mocha addiction?  (ok, and maybe I've sneaked in a few assisted vitamin D sessions as well.)  Renee was the last person who I've been saving for a literal rainy day.

Apparently, Renee saw my car pull up and she told Ed (from week 33) that she just knew I was going to ask to take her picture that day and she was sort of less than thrilled about it.  After a long day at work, she wasn't feeling camera-ready and at best, she said she's not really comfortable having her picture taken.

Knowing that Rennee wasn't feeling her best or at least not feeling confident, made me empathize with her, so it was important for me to capture her as the beautiful and genuinely nice person she has been.  When you walk into her shop, you're greeted with friendliness and warmth and both she and Ed are amazing in that once you've been in - they remember you by name and by drink on the next visit.  It's pretty remarkable for them to remember your name and once you've been in a few times, you really get the feeling of belonging to a small community.

It was important to me to try to show that same welcoming warmth in Renee's picture, as she is in real life.

I asked Renee about the happiest thing happening in her life right now, she responded, "Eddy and I working as a team and that business is going well."

Renee was having trouble thinking of a recent act of kindness but then her customers spoke up for her, reminding her that she had recently organized three different fundraisers for people in need.  This reminder helped Renee to recall that she had also given a cup of coffee to a homeless person. She set it next to him as he was sleeping.

I asked Renee if she had a personal mission statement and she said that she's soon going to get a tattoo which says:  "Faith. Family. Friends. Strong."

I realize as I'm writing this post that I had forgotten to ask Renee something about herself which she considers to be a success, so I'm just going to share something I would consider to be a success, just in the few months I've been a customer.  Renee is successful at owning and running a small business and she genuinely welcomes her customers with warmth, friendliness and great service!

Day 269 - Oscar

This is Oscar.  I spotted him as he was loading his groceries into his car.

I asked Oscar about the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he replied without hesitation, "my baby girls!"

It's pretty common when I ask people if they have a personal mission statement, or if they can think of one on the spot, for them to get this look of regret for having agreed to let me take their picture.  I end up apologizing for the job-interview-like question.  Oscar got that look on his face, but quickly replied simply, "to live right."

When I asked Oscar if he had any goals and dreams, he explained he had many, but I could tell he was ready to get on about his business. I then explained the reason I asked this question and the importance of doing so, is that I believe the more we talk about our dreams, the closer we come to realizing them.  He agreed and I can't quite remember  exactly what he said but he jumped on board in the effort to narrow his focus and start making his dreams a reality. I helped him to simplify his goals by asking him if he would identify at least 3 things.  He replied: 1) to record an album, 2) to go to France, 3) to visit his Sister in New York.

Before we parted,  I thanked Oscar and wished him well in accomplishing his dreams.

Day 270 - Sensei and Osiris

This is Sensei (left) and Osiris (right).  They were on their way to skate at Mt. Tabor Park.  I workout at Mt. Tabor and on Wednesdays, the park is closed to vehicles so its a popular day and the park is filled with cyclists, walkers, runners, and downhill longboard skaters.  I knew they were excited to get up the mountain as they were getting a bit of a late start, but they agreed to let me take their picture.

Something felt off when I was in the process of taking their pictures. We even had to move places and things were still feeling different to me.  I was concerned enough that I even had to ask to take their pictures individually.  It is extremely challenging for me to take a picture of more than one person at a time.  An even bigger challenge is when the people have a difference in height.  I couldn't quite figure it out, but things just felt different.

When I got home and started to "develop" the pictures, I realized the feeling I was picking up on was two-part.  1) The decision to move spots was a good call.  I finally recognized and directed the picture in order to get a better shot.  2) That off feeling wasn't "off" at all, it's what it feels like to take a cool picture!  I'm just not accustom to it!

Sensei and Osiris were sweet kids and even though they were in a hurry to skate, they gave me all the time in the world and they were so thoughtful in each of their responses. Once again, I would have benefitted from having a recorder as I just couldn't write fast enough to record their amazingly insightful responses to each question.  It was quite impressive to hear such considerate answers come from such young people, and I realized it was their youth which was actually behind their beliefs and philosophies.  They're young enough not to have been too hardened by what life can throw at us, but old enough to have developed compassionate and hopeful ideals of people and life.  Do you remember back to when you were their age...the way you felt about life and people was quite ideal.

When I asked about the happiest thing happening in their lives, Sensei responded, "being able to follow my thoughts and ideas. I feel I can follow what is right."  He then joked but not joked, "also, Star Trek and Star Wars!"  What I gathered by Sensei's response is that he's at the point where he's coming into his own and finding himself, and he's gaining confidence in the person who is emerging.  (I could be wrong, but that's my interpretation.)

Osiris responded, "A lot of things are good right now - I'm going to Europe in a month, for two months, and this weather!"

I asked if they've recently performed an act of kindness.  Sensei responded, "I try to give people patience."  Indeed, he gave me his patience.  I think a lot of young men would have been way too squirrely in this situation.  The two of them are unique and remarkable in that they were so thoughtful and patient with me when they would have much rather been skating than answering the questions of some middle-aged woman with a camera and a project.

Osiris' recent act of kindness is that he left his un-expired bus ticket at the bus stop for someone else to use.

I asked the pair something about themselves they would consider to be a success.  Sensi replied, "being open to new things and evaluating myself with less bias."  Osiris replied, "I take pride in my compassion toward people, awareness of people and where they're coming from."  Again, the two weren't just saying fluffy words. They were living exactly what they spoke about.  They were open to letting me take their picture and they were considerate and empathetic that I'm just a beginner, and tolerant that I needed to take several pictures. They afforded me their time and consideration with their answers to my questions.  They're good guys!

I asked the pair if they had a personal mission statement or could think of one on the spot.  For some reason, they had in their minds the statement should be as succinct as possible.  As in, two-words!  I'm not sure how we got on this track but we did. Sensei responded, "love and awareness."  Osiris responded, "patience and understanding."  They both struggled with how to articulate their words into a full mission statement.   Together, we decided simply to add "to live with," which expanded their responses to be:  "to live with love and awareness," and "to live with patience and understanding."

These two completely blew me away and I felt privileged to meet such nice "kids."  (oh man, I'm old enough to be calling guys "kids" now. It's all downhill from here.) Joking aside, I was impressed by their maturity and kindness and wish these young men lots of happiness, success, and good skating!

Day 271 - Mat

This is Mat.  I had exhausted my reserve of rainy-day people and it was pouring this day.  I couldn't find anyone at Tabor, so I decided to stop at a Plaid Pantry, hoping I'd be able to find a subject there. Thinking I had already taken the picture of every worker at this particular store, I was just hoping to find a customer who would give me the time to take their picture.  I was in luck!  I hadn't yet taken Mat's picture!  Just one problem - Mat got slammed right after I asked if I could take his picture.  After waiting for a while, it finally slowed down for just a minute, long enough for me to take his picture and ask a couple of the questions.

"Getting my financial aid together," Mat replied, is the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Mat's personal mission statement, "stick to your guns until, or unless, logic and experience prove otherwise."

It was quick, but I'm pleased with Mat's picture as well.

Day 272 - Christopher, Eunis, and Reba

This is Christopher (left), Eunis (center) and Reba (right).  These three were a crack-up! And yes, I challenged myself in trying to take a picture of not just two, but three people at once!  In real life, Christopher is nearly a head and a half taller than each of us, but he didn't mind repositioning himself to make it easier for us to get everyone in the frame.

I asked the happiest thing happening in their lives right now and Christopher responded that he had just had an "incredible interview!"  "I fucking slayed it," he said.  Joking aside, he was pleased that he had overcome his insecurities about being under-qualified and decided to go for it!  This was his second interview for the position and he's clearly feeling confident!

Eunis and Reba were both happy to be out celebrating Eunis' boyfriend's 30th Birthday! Reba was happy to be spending time with her "bestie," Eunis.

I asked the trio if they had recently performed an act of kindness...and wouldn't you know it, I had met another group of social service workers!  They all agreed that their professions are ones of kindness.

Christopher's act of kindness is that he assisted a person with the process of  accessing SS benefits.  I've decided to shorten this.  We all discussed ways in which we could tell their stories without breaking confidentiality and they were incredibly considerate of the words they used so they would keep the confidence of their clients.  Having worked in the field myself, I'm also sensitive to it as well, and I've decided to shorten Chris' response even further.

Eunis gave her un-expired bus ticket to a frazzled girl at the bus stop who greatly appreciated the kind gesture and she also procured a much-needed donation for the organization where she works - they're going to receive a donation of 100 lbs of clothing for the next three months!  Reba spent extra time with a particular client, and by giving him some extra individual time and attention, she most likely set him up to have a much nicer weekend.

I asked if they had a personal mission statement or if they could think of one on the spot, and again clarified, if this is challenging, then to think of it as defining their life's mission.  Christopher replied, "justice, art and glamour."  Reba responded, "if i can be happy for one day, I can make others around me happy."  Eunice responded, "I want to find my mission. I want to find my passion."

Again, I was so glad to have run into a group of fun-loving, and fun and loving people!

Day 274 - Brent

This is Brent.  We've known each other since about 1988 and he's married to one of my best friends.  And, he's one of my best friends too!

Brent attended our rival high school but we became acquainted because one of my best friends was a little sweet on him.  I helped keep stats for the wrestling team in high school, so I was the perfect cover for my two girlfriends to come to the wrestling matches.  But they weren't there to watch me keep stats - they were there to spy on Brent!  Here we are, some 26 years later and my friend and Brent are still married and we're all still the best of friends!

Brent is quietly one of the smartest people I know, and one of the funniest.  He just sort sneaks it in on you.  You don't know how funny he is at first, until he drops some of the most hilarious comments or observations on you!  He's so funny, his teenage daughter had to ban him from twitter because he was getting too big of a following and many of his followers were her friends!

I don't think either of us knew when we were in high school, that our Dads actually worked together, not directly, but close enough to where they developed a liking and a respect for one another.  Although they've both passed, I know our Dads would both be pleased that we're all still in each others lives, and all quite close.

It's been fun growing up and growing older with Brent and my girlfriends.  We've seen Brent grow from a quite mischievous kid, into an awesome husband and father.  Brent loves his family and when you meet him, you recognize it immediately.

"Seeing the kids doing well in sports and in school," Brent replied, is the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Brent couldn't think of a recent act of kindness but I know for certain it was only because his "memory is slipping," as Brent put it.  He and his family are ALWAYS doing some act of kindness and volunteer for several different groups.  He then remembered that most recently, he volunteered to be a waiter for the "Women's Tea" at their Church.

When I asked if he had a personal mission statement he replied, to never give up, and then settled on, "keep trying."

"My family," Brent said, is one thing at which he would consider himself to be a success.

I asked Brent if he were to challenge himself to do one thing, every day, for an entire year, what would it be?  He replied, "learn an instrument."  He explained that he'll practice for a while, make progress, and then stops, and he keeps repeating that process.

I'm so thankful that Brent and his family are in my life.  They are my family away from my real family, and I think that each of our families rest a little more assured, knowing that we have each other in our lives.

The summary of the personal mission statements from this week's subjects:

• To develop culture centered around art and music.
• Faith. Family. Friends. Strong.
• To live with love and awareness
• To live with patience and understanding.
• Stick to your guns until, or unless, logic and experience prove otherwise.
• Justice, art, and glamour.
• If i can be happy for one day, I can make others around me happy.
• I want to find my mission. I want to find my passion.
• Keep trying.

Thank you for following along on another week of this project!  I love sharing this project with you and am so happy to have you along for the ride.

If you've been a subject in this project - I'm completely unable to express my gratitude and appreciation for you and your time and for letting me take your picture, no matter how weird it may have been.  Thank you for sharing yourself with us and this project.

Thank you, and have an awesome week!

365 Day People Picture Project - Week 38

Hi! We're finished with week 38 of The 365 Day People Picture Project and you know what that means?  We reached 265 days this week!  Only 100 more days to go!

I can't even believe we've made it this far because it feels like we started this project just a few weeks ago. Thank you for following along on this journey!

Day 260 - Jack

This is Jack.  I spotted him in downtown Vancouver where he was working at a record store.

When I asked Jack about the happiest thing happening in his life right now, he replied, "easily, the Trail Blazers in the playoffs!"

I asked Jack if he's recently performed an act of kindness and he said that he tries to do something every day.

"Don't be an asshole. Do what you want to do as long as it doesn't infringe on anybody else," Jack replied, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of anything on the spot.

I asked Jack about something at which he would consider himself to be a success and he replied, "I'm finally doing things that are making me happy. Finding happiness."  This is among one of my favorite answers so far. It doesn't matter what we aspire to do, when you think of it, we're all in search of happiness.

Day 261 - Diane

This is Diane.  We met at the stairs at Mt. Tabor Park.  When I spotted Diane, I was so busy trying to analyze if she looked like a person who would let me take her picture, that I nearly missed seeing the car that she was busy watching.  Seeing the reaction in her face, caused me to look just in time to see what looked like Vince Neil and David Lee Roth driving straight out of the 80's and into Mt. Tabor Park, in what I can assume was a time machine, cleverly disguised as a convertible BMW with 80's anthems blaring on the stereo to complete the experience.

When I approached Diane, she was still taken with the BMW Time Machine and laughing about the whole sight.  I asked Diane about the happiest thing happening in her life right now and she replied, "my garden is growing."

I asked Diane if she's performed an act of kindness recently and she replied, "I help students in their time of crisis."  I assume Diane is a librarian, as she went on to explain that students often come in to the library shortly before a big project is due, and instead of nagging them about starting earlier, she just helps to put them on the right course to complete their report or assignment in time to turn it in on the due date.  Can you imagine being a student in that situation?  Diane would be such a welcomed life-saver and probably one of the few adults/teachers who would skip the lecture and just help you to do what needs to be done.  We laughed when I made the observation that it's funny because the habit of waiting till the last minute, seems to follow some of us into adulthood as well.

I asked Diane if she had a personal mission statement or could think of one on the spot, and she replied, "be kind and do things in moderation."

"Friendship, and building community," Diane replied, when I asked her one thing at which she would consider herself to be a success.

I asked Diane if she had any dreams or aspirations and clarified, "climb-Mt.-Everest" type dreams, at which she said she has actually always wanted to hike Table Mountain.  She then replied that she wants to learn to walk on stilts.  I love the idea of a stilt-walking-librarian and hope she pursues that ambition!

Now seems like the appropriate time to mention this because I need to learn from Diane's students and not wait until the last minute.  Since we're nearing the end of the project, I need to consider a few posts which will reflect back on everything I've learned in the project.  For photographers who stumble upon this project, I feel I should share what I've learned, even though it's actually painful to refer to myself as a photographer. I know I said I would stop this sort of talk. I'm working on it.  Anyway, I'd like to compile a list of things I've learned from a photography perspective, and things I've learned about people.  In the vein of not waiting till the last minute like some of Diane's students, I'm going to jot down something every day from now until the end of the project, so that I'll be ready with a closing and reflection post about this project.  (Thanks, Diane, I needed this reminder!)

Day 262 - Debbie and Kathy

This is Debbie (left) and Kathy (right).  I had spotted them several times as we were all working out at Mt. Tabor.  They finished the stairs shortly after we did, so the timing was perfect for me to ask if I could take their picture for the project.

I asked the happiest thing happening in their lives right now, and practically in stereo, they responded, "going to Paris!"  They're celebrating their 30 year anniversary with a vacation to France.

Debbie and Kathy are so aligned, they basically share answers!  When I asked if they had performed an act of kindness, they both agreed that they try to do something every day, such as opening doors for people, giving compliments, and recognizing their co-workers for a job well done.

When I asked if they had a personal mission statement, or could think of one on the spot, Debbie first answered for them both, saying, "treat others the way you want to be treated," and Kathy then added, "and Pay it forward."

I'm convinced I either need to get a bigger note book, write more legibly, or just get a recorder.  I've confused my own self with my note-taking once again, so I'm just going to share that Debbie and Kathy are looking forward to retirement and working on their fitness and getting in shape for Paris.

Bon Voyage, Debbie and Kathy!

Day 263 - Jesse

This is Jesse, from Ritual Arts Tattoo and Body Piercing, in the Hollywood District.  I spotted Jesse outside of his shop.

I asked Jesse about the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he replied, "there's so many! My kids are excelling, business is thriving, motor cycle riding, and gardening."  I mentioned to Jesse that the person from the day before was also happy about her garden growing and we talked about the satisfaction one feels when you can see all of your hard work start to grow.  Gardening and backyard chicken farms are huge in Portland!  If you don't personally have a garden or chickens, you know someone who does, and often, you're able to reap some of their bounty.

Jesse's recent act of kindness is that he gave things to a friend who just got her own place, and he's currently teaching/mentoring a person to tattoo.

I asked Jesse if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one on the spot and he explained that he's more of a spiritual person than religious, but that he tries to live by "the golden rule."

Having "strong integrity," Jesse replied, when I asked something at which he would consider himself to be a success.

When I asked Jesse if he had any dreams or ambitions, it was pretty amazing to watch his face as he went on to explain that he's basically realizing his dreams.  Opening the shop with his partner was and is his dream, and now he's "in the heat of it."  I love hearing people who've made their dreams a reality! It's inspiring to those of us who are in the process chasing our own.

When I got home to prepare Jesse's picture to be instagrammed, I was disappointed in myself.   I'm learning that photography is this delicate little dance with light and I'm fumbling through the dance with two left feet.  The weather changed drastically in Portland.  Practically over night, we went from our typical cloudy and rainy spring, to 80 degree bright sunshine-y days!  It has been a huge process of trial and error in realizing the significance of light.  I need to learn that I'm not leading this dance.  It seems like the sunlight, or lack of, often results in a look opposite of the look I conceive in my mind.  The upside of learning by trial and error, is that although painful, it's effective.

I was disappointed with the images I had of Jesse, and once again, I had to fight myself to not show you another picture in black and white.  Black & white is truly becoming not only my default, but my preference.  I opted to share this picture of Jesse, even though I favored other black & white versions.  Jesse, tattoo artists in general, are colorful people and I thought I needed to push myself to share this in color.  In addition, Jesse was a nice guy, and the black & white version feels a little more hard-edged than Jesse was in real life.  (All of the tattoo artists and tattooed people in this project are all pretty nice people, and I'm not sure I should be blowing their covers. Perhaps the desired look is to have a bit of an edge and here I am...telling you they've all been a bunch of sweethearts!)

I battled with my disappointment and did the best I could to make corrections in lightroom until I finally got to a point where I think the picture would pass my "would-this person-Facebook-this-photo" test.  For the remainder of this project, I need to remind myself of this objective.  I want to take pictures of people that are nice enough that when they look at them, they feel good about themselves.  In order to do that, I need to remember that I'm sparkle-hunting.  The next 100 days are about dancing with light, and hunting for a person's sparkle.

Day 264 - Sean

This is Sean. He had just taken off his helmet when I approached him at Mt. Tabor.  At the time, I told him the little helmet mark would only add to the look of the picture, but when I got home, I realized I was wrong.  The indentation from his helmet didn't add to the look, it was distracting.  Sean is my first dive into a real "edit" or "re-touch."  Until Sean, I've only experimented with basic adjustments to exposure, contrast, some color/saturation, cropping and softening or sharpening.  Sean was a nice guy and he trusted me to take his picture and I wasn't about to let him down by sharing a picture with a helmet mark.  So, I did what I had to do...I googled and youtubed and self-taught myself how to make an edit with the brush and clone the un-marked area of his forehead and smooth out the indentation caused by the helmet.  I think I did ok?  If I didn't tell you, would you know?  There's just so much to learn!

I asked Sean about the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he replied, "my girlfriend."

"I held the door open for someone this morning," Sean replied, when I asked if he had performed and act of kindness.

I asked Sean about something at which he would consider himself to be a success and he replied, "I got my degree".  (in web design and interactive media!)

When I asked Sean if he had any dreams or ambitions, he said that he would like to travel to the Middle East someday.

When I asked Sean if he had, or could think of, a personal mission statement, he replied, "when I die, I want to feel like I did the best I could."  I asked/told him that maybe we should leave out the "when I die" part because it's too morbid.  The more I thought about it, I realized that Sean is totally right!  A personal mission statement guides us in living our lives so that when it's our time, we will have known that we did the best we could because we will have known what we stood for. Our personal mission statement helps us to shape our own path.  And the reality is, we will die - but knowing our life's mission, helps us to fully live.

Day 265 - Robbie, and "Eddie."

I was so overwhelmed by cuteness, I didn't realize until I got home that I hadn't written down the name of Robbie's dog, but I'm pretty sure her name is Eddie.  Robbie, if you happen to read this, I'm sorry if this isn't the correct name.

Although I may have slipped on her name, Eddie was an an irresistible sight!  It's not every day you see a giant Saint Bernard strolling down the streets of the Hollywood District.  Robbie and Eddie were across the street from me and when I spotted them, I hustled right across the street. I would like to think that I stopped to check for cars first, but I'm not so positive about that one.  (One more thing to remember...while dancing with light and hunting sparkles, first stop to check for traffic before running across the street.)  Luckily, Robbie is use to all of the attention that Eddie gets and didn't hesitate to let me take his picture.  (In the time we were taking pictures, several people had stopped to remark about Eddie!)

Eddie was tiring from her walk, and Robbie also explained that as soon as the camera is turned on her, she sort of goes aloof.  She'll be doing something cute at home but when they go to take her picture, she stops the cuteness.  I'm convinced there are definitely camera-shy dogs and they definitely know what we're up to.  In addition to Eddie being a little camera-shy and tired, her dark coloring around her dark eyes, made for a challenge in trying to capture her little sparkle.  Instead of getting frustrated with myself like I used to, if I know I'm not capturing a good "portrait" of a dog, I just want to get them admiring their humans in the cute little doggie-way that dogs show happiness, love and contentment.  We don't see much of her eyes, but it's pretty clear that Eddie loves her Robbie.

I asked Robbie about the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he replied, "my fiancé and I are engaged."

"I'm happy," Robbie replied, when I asked one thing at which he would consider himself to be a success.

Robbie's personal mission statement, and his dreams & aspirations are one in the same.  He's on an "ongoing mission to be creative for a living."  Robbie writes screen plays and has made submissions to film festivals.  I'm wishing Robbie success in his mission, and when he's famous and fulfilled his dreams,  we can say "we knew him when..."

Day 266 - Abby

This is Abby.  He's my Sister-in-Law's Brother.  I didn't know my family was coming to town so I was happily surprised when my Sister-in-Law called Saturday morning to say they would be at Portland State University for a Pow Wow.

Since I've already had both my Brother and Sister-in-Law as subjects in the project, my Sister-in-Law volunteered Abby to be the person of the day.

Once again, I was wishing I were a much more skilled "journalist," as Abby made for great interview. Since my journalistic skills are lacking, I'll share as much as I can remember and what I can read of my notes.

I probably haven't seen Abby since I was a kid.  This picture is when my Sister-in-Law was trying to tell Abby to look at me so that I could take his picture and of course, he didn't know who she was talking about since we were much younger when we last saw one another. I snapped this picture right as his lightbulb wen't off with the spark of recognition.

I asked Abby about the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he replied, "my family is healthy and we're together."  Abby was the Arena Director for this event and he said that "Pow-Wowing is putting my heart at rest for my friend Lee."  Abby's  friend recently passed away and Abby selected a few certain songs to help honor his friend Lee, as a healing for himself and for Lee's family.  Abby is also happy about his spirituality, and his walks in life.  He's been having good dreams, and "dreams are powerful."  Abby is also happy that he has a good job.

Abby works at the Warm Springs Tribal Museum as facilities maintenance.  I appreciate and admire the way Abby views his job.  He feels that his job of keeping the building clean, safe, and secure, gives him a small part in preserving culture and history.  When Abby explained how he views his job, I immediately thought of the book, "The Leader Who Had No Title." Abby's respect for his job is exactly the message the book was trying to convey...Abby isn't simply maintaining a clean facility, he is, in fact, entrusted with the safe-keeping of history and culture.  (I've been meaning to write a full review of "The Leader Who Had No Title," but since I have yet to do that,  I just want to encourage you to put this book on your must-read list and it will change the way you view your entire life, and the lives of others.)

I asked Abby if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one on the spot.  He replied, "to sustain a meaningful life and to project that to those around me."  He wants people to not take things for granted.

Abby said his goals and dreams are to "live my life meaningfully, provide for my family, and sustain happiness."

I shot a few hundred pictures at the Pow Wow and of those, I was pleased with only about 4 of them. I'll share a couple with you.   I jokingly said to my Brother and Sister-in-Law that I'll now have to attend every Pow Wow in Portland until I can learn how to shoot properly.  A Pow Wow would be a real photographer's dream.  The color and texture of the Regalia, and the spirit and emotion of the dancers, makes for beautiful and moving photographs for someone who is skilled.  I left there feeling frustrated and disappointed in myself for not being able to properly capture and honor the dancers.  A Pow Wow really is an amazing test for photographers.  Those who are skilled will leave with beautiful images and those of us who are learning, will leave with more lessons learned the hard way.  No matter what images I walked away with on my camera's memory card, I still walked away feeling a little more nourished in my head and my heart.

Here's a recap of the personal mission statements from this week's subjects:

• Don't be an asshole. Do what you want to do as long as it doesn't infringe on anybody else.
• Be kind and do things in moderation.
• Treat others the way you want to be treated.
• Pay it forward.
• The golden rule  (Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.)
• When I die, I want to feel like I did the best I could.
• ...to be creative for a living.
• To sustain a meaningful life and to project that to those around me.

I just want to thank you if you've been a subject in this project, this week, or any week. It was a pleasure and an honor meeting you and thank you for giving me a moment of your time, and your kindness. Please remember, if you like your photo, please send me an e-mail and I'd be happy to e-mail it to you!  It's the very least I could do!

Thank you for following along so far!  I'm going to give it my best these last 99 days.  I've just got to remember to let go of the stress and pressures of trying to understand and learn ISO, shutter speed and aperture,  and I'll just remember to have fun while dancing with the light and hunting for people's sparkle.

Wishing you an excellent week!

365 Day People Picture Project - Week 37

Hello! Week 37 of The 365 Day People Picture Project is now complete!

If this is the first time you've stopped by, I'm taking a picture of a person a day, every day, for an entire year.  If you'd like to follow along daily, you can follow me on Instagram at @missellanea.

Day 253 - Debra

This is Debra.  We met at Esther Short Park in Downtown Vancouver.  I spotted her taking pictures of some of the sculptures in the park and figured she looked like a person who would let me take their picture.

Debra was on break from the most awesome job in the universe.  I had no idea this job even existed!  It is Debra's job to attend movies!  Some of her responsibilities are to observe the audience's reaction to movie trailers/previews.  The audience reaction to the previews shown in movie theaters, then shapes the previews which are shown to us on T.V..

Debra was among the most interesting people I've met in this project and she was happy sharing her thoughts with me. If I were a journalist and taking more in-depth interviews, Debra would have been a treasure of a person to meet!  She has well thought-out views on many subjects and is able to articulate those views brilliantly.  I'm not equipped to take such detailed notes, so although I enjoyed hearing her thoughts, I'm just sharing the answers to "the questions."

"The fact that my daughter will graduate in June," is the happiest thing happening in Debra's life right now.

I asked Debra if she had recently performed an act of kindness and she said she couldn't really think of anything, however she had just been extremely nice, near overly-nice, to the person who was working at the Subway from where she had just purchased her lunch.  She's always sure to be polite and thank fast-food workers.

"Being kind-hearted," Debra replied, when I asked if she had a personal mission statement or if she could think of one on-the-spot.

I asked Debra something at which she would consider herself to be a success and she replied, "volunteering."  Debra has been volunteering in schools for 28 years and still intends to after her youngest graduates, but she's considering the change to give her volunteer time to supporting animal advocacy causes.

When I asked Debra if she had a dream, she first replied, "to start a shelter for homeless cats, and probably dogs too."  As she explained more, she said this was actually her mom's dream and it was a dream of hers as well.  She then went on to say that her true dream would be to free all of the orcas in captivity and return those who are suitable, back to the oceans.  Those who are unable to survive in the ocean would be kept in sea pens instead, which would be a much healthier and humane environment than aquariums where they're forced to perform and sometimes kept in isolation.

Debra is indeed a kind-hearted person and her love for both humans and animals is pretty apparent and beautiful.

Day 254 - Ryan

This is Ryan.  We met at the Doug Fir.

Normally, the back patio at the Doug Fir is a people-watching dream and I've always been able to find an interesting person for the project.  However, when I met my friend there on Monday, we were one of the only people who weren't deterred by the rain.  Just as I was getting concerned that this would be the first time ever that I wouldn't be able to find a subject on the patio, Ryan, our server, agreed to let me take his picture.

I asked Ryan the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he replied, "I got to go on stage with Three 6 Mafia last night!"  Ryan had been called up on stage at the show the night before!

Ryan was having trouble thinking of something when I asked if he had recently performed an act of kindness, but he then replied, "walking my dogs."  Yes, his canine kids would definitely agree this is a great act of kindness for them! Ryan may have had difficulty thinking of an act of kindness, but if I had asked about an act of awesomeness, he had that covered with his on-stage appearance with Three 6 Mafia.

I asked Ryan if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one, and he replied, "no rules!"

"Keep making money," Ryan replied, when I asked if he ha a dream or ambition.  When I asked Ryan about one thing at which he considers himself to be a success, he said, "skateboarding."

Day 255 - Loren

This is Loren.  He's an awesome co-worker!

"Getting married," Loren replied, when I asked about the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Loren couldn't think of an act of kindness that he had recently performed.  I persisted because Loren is one of the nicest humans you'll ever meet. I know he's done something but he just couldn't think of a particular "act" of kindness.  "I just don't think of it that way, I guess," Loren said, before giving up trying to identify something.  It makes sense to me why Loren wasn't able to think of a specific act of kindness. Loren's existence is an act of kindness.  He's not able to think of a single act of kindness because he is an act of kindness.  I love hearing him interact with his customers because he is just sooooo nice.  He's so nice and so genuine, his mere presence in our office feels grounding to me.  We're so lucky he's our co-worker.  Loren also performed a huge act of kindness by letting me take his picture for the project. (I'll explain below.)

"Do no harm," Loren answered, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one on the spot.

I asked Loren about one thing at which he would consider himself to be a success and he replied, "compassion."

When I asked Loren if he had a dream or ambition and he replied, "to be disgustingly wealthy." Loren said that when he was in his twenties, he had set a goal for himself to make 24 million dollars per month.  He wasn't sure where that figure came from, it's just the figure his younger self set out to achieve.

I've embellished and exaggerated the few times I've said that I've nearly blown or ended the project.  Most of those times, I had been overreacting and there was no serious risk of the project ending once I was able to get my head on straight.  However, Tuesday, the project nearly ended.  For real.  Loren seriously saved the project.

I had gone into work on Tuesday, thinking I would be fine, even though I had been awake most of the night being sick with what I assume was food poisoning from something I had eaten over the weekend.  Although I had stopped being sick, I didn't realize how severely dehydrated I had become.  I made it through a few hours of the work-day but decided I had to go home. I was so dehydrated, my head was foggy and the only thing I could imagine myself doing was getting myself home and to bed.  Nowhere in those plans, could I imagine myself trying to approach a stranger and ask for their picture.  Not only did I not feel well enough to talk to someone, but I just didn't even have enough strength to drive around, park my car, and then walk around looking for someone.  I had just enough strength to get myself home.  In my foggy-headed state, I had convinced myself it was ok to fail at that point.  I had done an excellent job and taking a picture of a person a day for 254 days in a row, was an accomplishment few could ever claim.  See, I think I was near delirium! I would have been ok just ending the project that day!  I convinced myself that I had given it my entire effort.  It was ok.  I was ok with the project ending.   I finally snapped myself out of it and decided to ask Loren if he would take a break with me and let me take his picture before I went home for the day.

Loren was a life-saver!  He hadn't known about the project until then, and I could tell that he really didn't want to have his picture taken. I was barely able to explain the project to him but he's a smart guy and was able to connect the dots from my mumblings of "365 days, must take picture, I'm not well," and he totally understood that he would be helping me out and saving the project from ending.   As it was, I was pretty wobbly and we had to sit down so that I could use the picnic table to steady my hands and camera in order to take his picture.  Loren, thank you for saving the day and the project!

Day 256 -  Blanche 

This is Blanche.  She was waiting at the bus stop and once again, the bus came from nowhere and scooped her away before I could ask Blanche all of the questions.

"The fact that you get up every morning and you're breathing," Blanche said, is the happiest thing happening in her life right now.

There are a few stray hairs covering Blanche's eyes, but other than that, this would be among one of my favorite pictures so far.  Is it me, or do you just get a feel and a sense for Blanche, just by looking at the picture?

Day 257 - Karen

Karen's picture was taken at the bus stop around the corner from where I had met Blanche the day before.  Again, we were in a race against the bus.

I asked Karen the happiest thing happening in her life right now and she replied, "being clean and sober."

"I gave money to a homeless person," Karen answered, when I asked if she had recently performed an act of kindness.

I asked Karen about one thing at which she would consider herself to be a success, "staying clean and sober," she replied.

The bus arrived so I didn't get to ask Karen any other questions.

Day 258 - Tiffany

This is Tiffany.  I spotted her the moment I walked in to meet my friends at Charlie's.  Although I spotted her instantly and knew I wanted to ask for her picture, she was with her friends and I didn't want to interrupt.  I spent a good hour scoping out the place for another possibility but I kept coming back to Tiffany and finally just asked her if she would be in the project.

I asked Tiffany the happiest thing happening in her life right now and she replied, "the possibility that we may be moving to New Jersey."  Tiffany's husband's job may take them across the country.

Tiffany's recent act of kindness is that she paid for a week's stay at a hotel, for a couple who were temporarily between homes.

When I asked Tiffany if she had a personal mission statement or if she could think of one on the spot, she didn't hesitate when she replied, "indulge in anything at any given time."  Tiffany went on to explain that she's experienced a few deaths recently which have influenced her and caused her to realize that life is too short not to indulge in doing the things we love.  Tiffany is another person who believes so strongly in her mission, that she even has it tattooed on her arm!  The work isn't yet finished but she shared its beginning.

I asked Tiffany if there is something at which she considers herself to be a success and she replied, "I'm a good mom."  She has made it known to her children that there's nothing they can't go to her with.

I got an instant read on Tiffany that she's both an excellent mom and a nice person, but she's also a pretty great Blazers' fan too!

Day 259 - Arash and Ben

This is Arash (left) and Ben (right).  They were both pretty adorable and funny!  I had been wandering around the park and Vancouver Farmers Market area for a while, but just hadn't found the right person, then I ran into these two.  They're opposites in personality, but the perfect complement to each other.  Arash is outgoing, outspoken, and confident, and Ben is a little on the bashful side.

When I first stopped them, Arash agreed to let me take his picture before I had even finished explaining the project.  He jokingly said he didn't want Ben in his picture and playfully stepped to the side and gestured for me to take his picture, solo.  I snapped a few pictures of them together and explained, ironically, that I was getting a nice picture of Ben, but I wasn't capturing a nice picture of Arash.  Arash was shocked!  Of all of the people in this entire project, Arash is the only person who confidently said that he was quite photogenic.  He was a complete character!  He has more confidence than about three people combined, but somehow, it comes across as sweet instead of arrogant and annoying.  Again, Ben is the opposite and much more soft-spoken.

I asked the happiest thing happening in their lives right now and Arash replied, "moving to San Diego to go to college."  Ben replied with silence and a bashful smile.  Arash replied for him, saying, "he's happy he got a new co-worker."  Arash and Ben used to be co-workers at the Farmers Market but Arash is now working for one of the vendors in the market and Ben now has a new co-worker to fill Arash's vacancy.

I asked the pair if they had recently performed an act of kindness.  Arash tries to perform an act of kindness every day and help people when he can.  Ben had recently given someone food.

"If you do good in this world, good will happen to you," Arash replied, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or could think of one on the spot."  Ben's response to the question - a bashful smile, and silence.  He tried so hard to think of something and Arash tried to help him by asking if there's something from the Bible he could quote.  I could tell Ben has a lot going on in his head and I'm sure after I left, he could think of a half-dozen possible mission statements, but I know I just caught him completely off guard.

I asked the guys if there is something at which they would consider themselves to be a success and Arash replied, "life."   I couldn't help being amused with Arash's response, given that he's just getting started in life.  I playfully asked, "how do you know you're successful, you're just getting started?"  To that, Arash replied, "I feel like a winner!"  I agreed, saying if that's the kind of attitude he begins his life with, then I'm certain he will indeed, be a winner.

Somehow, Arash manages to ooze confidence, but he's not at all arrogant.  He's confident. He has the confidence that one can only possess before life beats them up a little. I truly believe Arash's attitude and confidence will take him far and carry him through any bumpy spots in the road he may encounter in life.  I have a friend who was told, by a doctor, "you're cute, your life will be easy," and she somehow internalized that.  For her, life has been easy, even when it hasn't been.  It's like that little comment made by her doctor (who was just trying to encourage her to loosen up a little because she was wound quite tightly as a teen) implanted her with a roadmap and an assurance that "life will be easy," and it became self-fulfilling prophecy.

We could learn a lot from Arash.  Our world and our life becomes exactly what we think and believe.  If we feel like a winner, we'll be winners.  "Fake it till you make it," Arash also added in the conversation.

Ben's response to the question about something at which he would consider himself to be a success - more bashful smiles and silence.  I prompted him, asking if he's a good friend.  Arash, again speaking for him, confirmed he's successful at being a good friend.  Arash then added that "he's a good Christian!"  As our "interview" was coming to an end, Ben said, bashfully, "I like video games. I'm good at video games."  Yes!  I was so happy he said something!   It's difficult to say good things about ourselves, so I was happy Ben was able to answer this question!

I had fun meeting these two, and I think they did too. I think even Ben was having fun, even though he was a bit shy at first.  I wished them both good luck in life and was on my way.

Our take-aways, complied from the personal mission statements of the subjects this week, are:

• Being kind-hearted.
• Do no harm.
• No rules.
• Indulge in anything at any given time.
• If you do good in this world, good will happen to you.

I'm unable to adequately express my thanks and appreciation to those who have been subjects in this project.  Thank you for sharing a piece of your lives with me and with this project.  I'm so thankful for your kindness.

If you're reading this right now - I'm thankful for you as well!  Thank you for following!

Wishing you a fabulous week!  Go feel like a winner!

365 Day People Picture Project - Week 36

Happy Easter! We're finished with week 36 of The 365 Day People Picture Project!

This week has been unique in that four of the subjects ended up being friends or acquaintances.

A heartfelt "thanks" to each of you who have been subjects in this project.  I realize how weird it must be to share a part of yourself, especially if we're complete strangers, but in doing so, you've shared with us your kindness and wisdom and I appreciate you.  We appreciate you.

Day 246 - Kacey

This is my friend and co-worker, Kacey.  This picture was taken shortly after we finished the Race for the Roses Half-Marathon!

This was Kacey's first Half and she did awesome!  Kacey and I have been training together the past few months and we entered as *just* walkers but a little over half-way through, Kacey turned into a runner and didn't look back!  It was a pretty amazing experience to see someone you care about, dig deep down and pull something out of themselves they never knew they had.  And yes, I witnessed it all from behind her! Haha!

Kacey had been pretty insistent that she's not a runner.  We've discussed how much we would love to be able to run and we both admire and long to be runners, but we both have  weirdness/issues when we try running.  Something happened with Kacey, though.  She took off running and kept running. (a little walking here and there, but mostly running.)  She looked stronger as a runner than looked when walking!  It was amazing!

I admire and appreciate Kacey.  Our jobs are challenging and stressful because of the constant pressure of deadlines, but she manages to keep calm, no matter what challenges we send her way.  When she's finished with a hard day at work, she then starts her other job as a wife and mother. In our training, we've had the opportunity to talk and share a lot of our personal lives and I've been blown away by her insight and how she always knows just the right thing to say as a mother.  Her daughters are so lucky to have such a wonderful mom.   Her daughters will grow up knowing how much they're loved and supported, but they're also not going to be able get anything past their mom!

"Finishing a half-marathon," Kacey said, is the happiest thing happening in her life right now!

When I asked Kacey if she had recently performed an act of kindness, she simply said "no."  I told her that's a "big fat lie!"  Kacey is humble.  She's constantly doing kind things for our co-workers and even strangers.  There are too many to list, but I know she's given away her last few dollars, just to help someone who needs it.   Kacey wouldn't realize this, but I think one act of kindness that she performs daily is that she's an excellent listener and counselor.  Kacey is objective and straight-forward.  She's going to tell things like they are and she manages to not coat things in so much sugar so as to make you feel like you're eating candy, but just enough sugar to help you swallow any bitter pills that need swallowing so that you can go on about the business of getting better.

I asked Kacey if she had a personal mission statement or if she could think of one on-the-spot.  Kacey replied, "one foot in front of the other."  This is pretty much an expected answer from someone who had just finished their very first half-marathon!

Kacey replied, "being a good mom," when I asked about one thing at which she would consider herself to be a success.  Yes, indeed!  Kacey is an excellent mom.

Kacey was just a kid when we met.  She started working this job in High School and just celebrated 20 years with the company.  Although she's mature beyond her years, it's been a privilege to see her grow from high school student to an amazing wife, mother and manager.  I feel so lucky she's a coworker and friend.

Day 247 - Jason

This is my friend, Jason.  He's a big guy, about 6'4" or so, and heavily tattooed and pierced.  He's an intimidating sight, but he's the gentlest teddy bear you'll ever meet.  One thing that struck me when we first met, is that he and his guy friends (some of whom could also look intimidating if you didn't know them) always give each other hugs every time they see one another.   It doesn't matter if they last saw one another a day ago or a decade ago, you can count on the fact that they're all going to share a big group hug, and it's often followed by, "I love you, Brother."

"My little girl," Jason said, is the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

When I asked Jason if he had recently performed an act of kindness, he replied, "everyday."  He tries to do something each day, and this day's act of kindness is that he helped an elderly lady get her shopping basket off the bus.

I asked Jason if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one and he replied, "push my own envelope and never stop learning."

"Being a Dad," Jason said, is something at which he would consider himself to be a success.

Day 248 - Phil

This is Phil.  He and his friend were talking on the sidewalk when I approached them to ask if I could take their picture.  Phil's friend was leaving but Phil agreed to be in the project.

"I quit smoking, finally," Phil said, is the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

When I asked Phil if he had recently performed an act of kindness, at first he replied, "I don't know the answer."  He thought about it for a while and then replied that he cooked dinner for his wife.

I asked Phil if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one on the spot, and he replied, "to love people."  Phil is a musician at the Church where he works and he feels  that through music, he's able to use his talent to help share love.

I've tried to introduce this question a few times but it's actually rather awkward. I haven't quite figured out the most succinct way in which to present this question so I've just fumbled through it a bit. As a result, the answers have been pretty broad.  I asked Phil his dreams or ambitions, and he replied that he dreams of being a Dad one day.

I asked Phil one thing at which he would consider himself to be a success and he replied, "I'm an honest person.  Authentic."

I enjoyed talking with Phil and when we finished, again, it felt like I had just finished talking with an old friend.

Day 249 - Carolyn

This is Carolyn and she's pretty awesome!

At 68 years young, 69 next month, Carolyn can do 35 push-ups in a minute!  She works out several times a week and she's a paddler on a few different Dragon Boat teams.  She's a petite woman but she's a powerhouse!

I jokingly said that we should take a picture of her doing push-ups in case there were any nonbelievers.  She laughed, and said, "do you want to? I'll do it!"  She then proceeded to drop down in the middle of the parking lot and do push-ups!  I didn't want her to because I didn't want her to ruin her cute pointy-shoes, but she just went for it!

I asked Carolyn the happiest thing happening in her life right now and she replied, "Everything!  I'm so blessed."  Carolyn feels blessed with family, health, lots of friends and financial stability.

I asked Carolyn if she's performed a recent act of kindness and she said that one thing she likes to do is to smile at people who look down or unhappy.  We talked about the huge impact that a smile can have on a person. I've noticed this at the grocery store. I now intentionally smile at people no matter how stressed I may be feeling at the time.  I give other shoppers smiles because they may be feeling even more stressed than I.  This is so easy to do and when you connect with a person, it's pretty moving to see their mood lift, simply because you cared enough to give them a smile.

I asked Carolyn if she has a dream or aspiration, and she said she has lots of "Bucket List" dreams, and she's pushing herself to be the best that she can be.  She's trying out for Team USA Dragon Boat Team, and going to Italy for the World Championships.

"To always be open to grow, and listen to the lessons that the universe has for you," Carolyn said, is her personal mission statement.

I asked Carolyn one thing at which she would consider herself to be a success and she replied, "I'm not afraid to take a risk. I'm not afraid to try new things. I'm not afraid to fail."

In addition to being a sweet and kind person, Carolyn is an inspiration.  After finishing with the picture and "interview," I thought a lot about the things Carolyn had said.  Truly, the fear of failure is one of the biggest obstacles which prevents us from realizing our dreams.  I thought long and hard before doing this project and I remember being nearly paralyzed from fear.  I was so afraid of sucking as a photographer and not having the stick-to-it-ness to do this project.   It wasn't until reaching that "so what" point, that I was able to begin this project.  I let go of my fear of failure.

I'd like to add to Carolyn's mission statement by including; take a risk, try new things, don't be afraid to fail.

Day 250 - Lance

This is Lance.  I met him walking down the sidewalk and asked if he would be in the project.

"I think I'm getting a new job," Lance replied, is the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

I asked Lance if he's performed an act of kindness and he replied, "yes."  I didn't want to pry, but Lance is a social worker so he's another person whose profession is an act of kindness.  I don't know the professions of every person in this project, but it seems we have a high number of social workers who have been subjects in this project.  I think that says a lot about them and the vibe they give off.  I've somehow managed to gravitate to a high number of people who work in social services.  I suspect I must be subconsciously picking up that they like people, and the likelihood will be high that they will let me take their picture for the project.  Working with and helping people is their passion and their calling, so it makes perfect sense that I've been able to get a good vibe from them, even when just passing them randomly on the sidewalk.  They're doing what they were meant to do.

I asked Lance if he has a dream or ambition and he replied, "I want to live a comfortable life and to be as present as possible."   Lance decided that, "to be present," is also his personal mission statement.

One thing at which Lance would consider himself to be a success, "I'm good at helping people."

Day 251 - Josh

This is my friend and former co-worker, Josh.  We didn't know each other when we were younger, but we're actually from the same small town in Southern Oregon and, coincidentally, we ended up working together at the same shop in Portland!

I've mentioned this several times, but taking pictures and "interviewing" friends/acquaintances has, at times, been even more challenging than when working with strangers.  I get so nervous because I want to do a nice job and take a picture they'll  love.  The added pressure has caused me to blow it.  However, I'm pleased with this picture considering the background we had to work with was the Burger King drive through.

"My family," Josh said, is the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

I asked Josh if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of something on the spot.  He replied, "to help people to learn and be inspired."   This is perfect mission statement to help guide him in his new job teaching screen printing.  I can't think of a better person more suited to teaching people the art and science of screen printing.

When I asked Josh about one thing at which he would consider himself to be a success, he replied, "being flexible in life."

Josh had a hard time answering a few of the questions and I let him off the hook knowing that he needed to get home to his family.  I asked if he could text me his answers but since he didn't, I'm just going to answer for him.

I think the reason he had such a difficult time answering the question about a dream or ambition, is because his life is now completely fulfilled.  His family and new job are his dream come true.  It makes me so happy to see that a friend is so happy.

Day 252 - Michelle and Brett

This couple is as sweet in real life as they are in this picture!

It's still quite a struggle for me to take a decent picture of a pair or group, but I'm determined to work through it.  I just need to challenge myself more and approach more groups and couples instead of avoiding them.

"Our Baby," Michelle said, is the happiest thing happening in their lives right now.

When I asked if they had recently performed an act of kindness, they bashfully avoided the question.  Their friend then jumped in, saying, "they always do!"  Michelle then answered, "we give good tips!"   Brett said that he also just helped his neighbor change a flat tire.

When I asked if they could think of a personal mission statement, they decided on, "Live. Love. Laugh."

I asked the couple if they had a dream or ambition and they replied they want to make lots of money for home, and to be able to take nice vacations.

When I asked about something at which they would consider themselves to be a success, Michelle replied, "being a mom and wife."  Brett replied, "being a father and step father."  Michelle also added to Brett's response, telling him that he's a good provider.

I love summarizing the personal mission statements of each subject. Seeing them all together is starting to form one heck of an inspirational message!  This week, the subjects have taught us;

• One foot in front of the other
• Push my own envelope and never stop learning.
• To love people.
• To always be open to grow, and listen to the lessons that the universe has for you.
• Take a risk. Try new things. Don't be afraid to fail.
• To be present.
• To help people to learn and be inspired.
• Live. Love. Laugh.

This week has been another extra special week because I was reminded of the kind and great people I have in my life.  It's been an amazing experience meeting all of the new people in this project, and I feel privileged by knowing the amazing people who are already in my life.

There are still a few months left in the project but my mind is really starting to get concerned about "what's next!?"  For a moment, a very brief moment, I entertained the idea of a new challenge for next year.  I thought about the possibility of next year's challenge to be a picture of a different band every single night for an entire year.  I couldn't contain my excitement about this idea, and then reality set in and I realized what a huge, huge undertaking it would be. It would be an incredible and amazing challenge, but just not one I'm up for. Yet.  Can you even imagine?  It could be done, but I just don't think I'm the person for that job.  We'll see.

Thanks again to all of the subjects in this project and thank you for checking in on another week of this project. It's been an honor having you follow along and I can't thank you enough for your support.

Wishing you a Happy Easter!

See you next week!

365 Day People Picture Project - Week 35

Hello! Thank you for checking in on week 35 of The 365 Day People Picture Project!

If this is your first time stopping by, I've challenged myself to take a picture of a person every day for an entire year.  I had no idea how to even use a camera when I started this project and I had no real photography experience, other than a few snaps over the years with a point-and-shoot film camera.

The majority of the subjects in this project have been strangers, but also included are a few family, friends, and co-workers. The pictures are taken each day - I'm not stockpiling pictures for use at a later time.

The project has evolved slightly and I now ask a few questions of each subject. I ask the same questions of each subject.  Although the questions are the same, I've had wonderfully unique interactions with each and every person in this project.

I post the pictures daily to Instagram and if you'd like to follow along, my username is @missellanea.

Day 239 - Dwayne and Maple

I met Dwayne and Maple down at Esther Short Park in Vancouver.  I didn't realize when I stopped them that they were on a mission to meet up with their family at the playground, so I tried to be quick.  "My family," Dwayne said is the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

I asked Dwayne if he had performed a recent act of kindness and he said that he had just given his neighbor's car a jump-start.   He also said, "Every day is an opportunity for an act of kindness when you have kids."

In my attempt to hurry our "interview" so that he could meet up with his kids, I flubbed my note-taking.  I asked Dwayne if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one on-the-spot, and he replied that it would be to keep his family and his own self in good health. (I can't quote this, because this is my interpretation of my hastily written notes and my memory. I'm not sure which is more reliable in this case.) Dwayne said that he also likes a saying which hangs on the family's refrigerator.  He couldn't remember it exactly, but it says something along the lines of; "be kind, fairness, compassion, and love."

By this time, Dwayne was signaling to his family that he would be right over. I can imagine they must have been wondering if I were a persistent sales person and perhaps they were strategizing a rescue plan.  I asked Dwayne if there was something at which he would consider himself to be a success but I practically answered for him, "being a Dad," he agreed.  Dwayne said that he's constantly striving to be a better Dad, to be less self-centered and more compassionate.

Day  240 - Molly

Molly was just starting her Tabor workout and I had just finished mine.  Actually, I had finished quite some time before meeting Molly but I had been hanging out and waiting for a subject.  Several people had declined me that day and then it seemed like the park was empty for a while.  I used to get so disappointed when this would happen. Now when it happens, I actually get a little excited with anticipation because I know I'm going to meet someone extra special.  As soon as Molly pulled up, I knew she was the person I had been waiting for!

When I approached  Molly to ask if I could take her picture for the project, she seemed interested in the project but she reeeeeaaally didn't want to have her picture taken.    When a person doesn't seem to want to have their picture taken, I normally don't persist.  When I'm declined, I just thank them and walk away.  When I first started this challenge, I would leave feeling quite deflated but now it's no biggie.  However, for some reason, I just wouldn't walk away from Molly.  I persisted and encouraged her that she would make for a great subject.  I'm so glad I did! Once again, Molly did indeed turn out to be an extra special person.

The happiest thing happening in Molly's life right now is that she just returned to school for the first time in 30 years.  I jokingly asked Molly if she had any first-day-of-school nightmares and she laughed saying that it is easier to work than it is going back to school! School is a lot more challenging now.

When I asked Molly if she had recently performed an act of kindness, she told me that she had just re-connected with a friend with whom she had been out of touch for 20 years, and is now helping that friend cope and deal with his recent diagnosis of cancer.  Molly has fought, and is winning, her own battle with cancer.  She's able to say things to her friend that others can't say, because she's been there.  Molly is a nice and gentle person, but I can also feel her strength and straight-forwardness.  I can imagine that she is a source of great comfort and strength for her friend.

Molly's impromptu personal mission statement - "Be Curious.  Stay Open.  We're all going to be fine."   I'm happy Molly was open to being in the project.  She's a kind person and I'm glad we met.

I asked Molly if she could name something at which she considers herself to be a success and she replied, "I'm a good friend."  I have no doubt she is.

Meeting Molly was just another reminder that you never really know the battles one is dealing with in their life.  Wishing Molly and her friend good health and healing.

Day 241 - Roz

Roz was waiting at the bus stop and of course I approached him when his bus was only a  block and a half away.  We quickly snapped the picture and we only had time for one question. I asked Roz the happiest thing happening in his life and as he was about to board the bus he replied, "I'm going to marry my fiancé."

Day 242 - Rob

Rob was just arriving at Tabor as I was about to leave.

I asked Rob the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he replied, "I just finished making a ukulele!"  Now that he's made it, he's learning to play it as well.  I couldn't resist telling him about the time I saw a man driving down the street in a Prius and simultaneously playing a ukulele.  (True story! Yep, that's Portland!)

Rob's recent act of kindness is that he took a sick friend to get medical care and he now visits him while he's in the hospital.

I asked Rob if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one.  He replied, "stay strong and take care of each other."

When I asked Rob if there was something at which he would consider himself to be a success, he replied, "napping!"  Thanks, Rob.  I now have two things at which I would consider myself to be a success.

Rob is a DJ and you can check him out at Orographic on Soundcloud.

Day 243 - Tristin

This is Tristin. He and his dogs were starting their daily Tabor walk when I approached them.  Although I now love the challenge of trying to get a nice picture of dogs and their humans, I could just tell it wasn't going to happen that evening and didn't push it too hard.  Tristin later told me they do this walk every day.  I was definitely interrupting the dogs and their routine and I'm sure they wanted to get on with their park business. With a little more time and patience, I'm sure we could have got a decent picture of Tristin and both dogs, but I didn't want to slow them down any longer.

The happiest thing happening in Tristin's life is that his partner just returned from her trip to India.

When I asked Tristin if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one on the spot, he decided on, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."

I asked Tristin if there's something at which he would consider himself a success and he explained that he cuts old bottles and repurposes them to be glasses.  I was hoping he had a website or etsy shop where we could see his work, but right now he's just doing it for himself and friends.

Have you noticed how many men in this project have identified their relationship as being the happiest thing happening in their life?  I'm learning men are a lot more sensitive and sentimental than we give them credit for.

Day 244 - Annie

I had a hair appointment in NW Portland on Friday evening and I was looking forward to finding a subject afterward.   Most of the pictures in this project have been taken in the same few parts of town, and are of people I've met or run into during my typical day-to-day happenings.  It's fun when I'm able to explore and search for subjects in a different part of the city.

My hair stylist's shop is in a busy part of town but once again, the moment I stepped out in search of a subject, it's like the sidewalks cleared of all life and I was left there without any options.

I wandered around for a while and after being declined by a person, I decided to head back toward my car. On my way back, I spotted Annie.  Again, I was struck with the thought - oh, this is who I'm supposed to meet today!

Annie had all kinds of style happening but the two things that caught my eye were her metallic silver wedge booties and her hair.  When I approached Annie, it seemed like she had a lot on her mind and places she needed to go.  I asked if I could take her picture for the project but she was hesitant to agree.  I told her I was certain she would say yes because she's wearing metallic silver shoes.  I think that logic worked! If you're the kind of person who likes to wear metallic silver shoes, you're probably the kind of person who would be open to letting a complete stranger take your picture for her little project.

Annie is another one of my favorite pictures so far.  In addition to Annie being beautiful, the lighting was in our favor as it was early evening and the sun was setting.

I asked Annie the happiest thing happening in her life right now and she replied, "I'm happy I serve Jesus."

When I asked Annie if she had performed a recent act of kindness, she said yes but I had to inquire to learn more.  She explained that her friend was just diagnosed with cancer and Annie is going to take care of her friend's daughter.  I was saddened to hear of Annie's friend but imagined that her friend must find some relief in knowing her daughter is going to be loved and cared for.

Annie had difficulty finding a personal mission statement, saying that, "I'm just grateful."  I could tell she wanted to articulate that into something more, and together we sort of talked through things and agreed that "to live a life of gratitude," is just about one of the best mission statements one could have.

One thing at which Annie would consider herself to be a success is "teaching preschoolers the word of God."

I knew the very first picture I had taken of Annie was a "yes" picture, but I took a second just to be sure.   I will figure out how to articulate this into words for you, but for now, I can only say that it's been a rare but exciting and satisfying feeling when I know we made a good picture.   I'm not yet able to explain the feeling  when the subject and I are connecting.  If we're connected and in sync,  I'm somehow able to press the button just as the subject's internal light begins to flicker which is identifiable by the sparkle in a person's eyes.   If you can time it just right to catch a person's sparkle, I don't think it matters what camera you're using or what your experience is as a photographer,  it's going to be a beautiful picture.

Day 245 - Johnny

This is Johnny.  We met outside of the Portland Expo Center.  We had just gone through packet pick-up for the Race for the Roses which is on Sunday.

I knew immediately I had a challenge - caps make shadows, especially when the sun is shining.  It didn't matter.  Johnny's Rose Festival Cap is one of the first things I spotted on him, so I just went for it!  In this case, I'm ok with the shadow..  It makes me want to look a little deeper to get a better peek of Johnny's eyes.

The happiest thing happening in Johnny's life right now is that he's running two races, two weekends in a row!  Wow!  He's doing the Race for the Roses Half Marathon this weekend and then he's running another race next weekend too!

When I asked Johnny if he's recently performed an act of kindness, he replied, "I try to do something every day."  Johnny said that he likes to interact with people.  Johnny drives for a living and he jokingly said he hasn't flipped anyone off all year!  That's actually a pretty big accomplishment if we're all being honest.

I asked Johnny if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one.  He said he would borrow the quote, "Train. Race. Beer."

"I've been married for 12 years," Johnny replied, when I asked about one thing in which he would consider himself to be a success.

Wishing you good luck and fast times, Johnny!

Our take-aways from the subjects this week are:

• Keep your family and self in good health.
• Be kind. Fairness Compassion.  Love.
• Be Curious.  Stay Open.  We're all going to be fine.
• Stay strong and take care of each other.
• Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.
• Live a life of gratitude.
• Train. Race. Beer.

Thank you for reading this right now!  If you've been a subject in this challenge - I can't thank you enough.  I appreciate you and I'm sure when we met, I didn't do an adequate job of showing you my appreciation.  Thank you for your time and for sharing yourself with us.  If you would like a copy of your picture, do drop me an e-mail and I'm happy to e-mail you back with your picture.

If it is your routine to read the weekly review on Sunday morning, I'll be doing a half-marathon as you're sipping your coffee and checking out the people for the week.  If only I could take my camera along on the marathon!  We'd really have some fun then!

Have you given it any more thought about a "Meet someone Monday" challenge  in the vein of "Throwback Thursday," -  where we could share pictures or stories of a stranger you met during the week?  This has been such an amazing and life-changing experience, I just want other people to experience it too!

Thanks again for your continued encouragement and for following along in this process.

Have a fabulous week!

365 Day People Picture Project - Week 31

Thank you for checking in on week 31 of The 365 Day People Picture Project! It's been such a beautiful week here in Portland/Vancouver.  We've had more sun than rain this week and in Portland, the mood changes right along with the weather.  Everyone is so happy!

Day 211 - Matt & Cheech

I met Matt and Cheech in Esther Short Park, Downtown Vancouver.

I asked Matt about the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he said, "having winter be done!"  It was a beautiful day on Sunday and we were heading into a week of beautiful weather.

Matt told me that Cheech had gone missing during the snow storm a few weeks ago. There's no good time for a dog to be lost, but that had to be a horrible feeling for them both.

I asked Matt if he had a personal mission statement and if not, could he come up with one on the spot. He came up with:  "To look to the future and be happy."

Day 212 - Ryan

This is Ryan.  We had both crossed the street at the same time, so I decided to ask if I could take his picture.

I asked Ryan the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he replied, "being married."

Ryan tries to do an act of kindness every day.  I asked Ryan if he had a personal mission statement, or if he could think of one.  He replied, "work hard today, so it will be easier tomorrow."

Day 213 - Brian

Brian was doing the stairs at Mt. Tabor.  It was his first day back after having taken the winter off from the stairs.  Having just had my first day back at the stairs last week, I know how exciting and daunting it feels to get back at it.  The stairs at Tabor are brutal, but the upside is the feeling of camaraderie with all of the other stair-climbers.

I asked Brian about the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he replied, "spring!"

Brian's recent act of kindness is that he's a volunteer for the Timbers Army.

I love Brian's personal mission statement.  It inspired me and helped me that very same day, and it continued to stick with me the rest of the week.  Ryan's personal mission statement is, "To get better every day."

I thought of his words that day when I did push-ups at the top of the stairs.  It's our routine to do a set of stairs, walk a lap around the top of Tabor, and then do push-ups, planks, squats, or lunges before descending back down the stairs. I haven't done push-ups since the beginning of November, so it felt like I was starting all over again.  My first set was horrible.  I could only do 5 push-ups with good form and that was taking all the strength I had that day.   I could hear Brian's voice when I forced myself to do one more push-up than I had done the set before.  "To get better every day," is such a good reminder that great progress can made in tiny little incremental steps.  One can't go back out and expect to do 15 good push-ups after having done none in 5 months, but you can start where you are and improve one-by-one.

Day 214 - King and Bella

Wednesday was the warmest day we've had so far and Mt. Tabor was packed with people!  On Wednesdays, the park is closed to all motor traffic so the park belongs to downhill skateboarders and cyclists, plus all of the usual runners, walkers, picnickers and sunset-watchers.

I approached King and Bella to ask if I could take their picture and I didn't know I had walked into a bit of a situation.  King and Bella had been separated from their group so they decided to head back to the car and meet up with them there.  Only one problem - the car was gone!  The car's owner, Bella's fiancé, had left to take someone else home and all of Bella and King's belongings were in the car.  I had an opportunity to perform my own small act of kindness and let them use my phone to call Bella's fiancé.  All was fine and they were quickly reunited.

The happiest thing happening in their lives right now:  King is happy about upcoming music projects and Bella is happy that she and her fiancé have found their own place and will be getting married soon.

Day 215 - Colleen

This is Colleen. I had just finished my stair workout at Tabor and Colleen was just beginning hers.

When I asked Colleen if I could take her picture, she was quickly agreeable.  She then told me about a movie in which the owner of a cigar shop takes a picture of people/his shop every day.  She couldn't remember the name, but she thought it was a Roman Polanski film.  I searched and searched when I got home, but I was having trouble finding the movie.  I finally discovered it wasn't a Roman Polanski movie.  The name of the movie is "Smoke" and if you've enjoyed following along in this project, I think "Smoke" is a must-watch for the both of us!  I can't wait to watch it!

"Being alive and enjoying my grandson and my daughter," is the happiest thing happening in Colleen's life right now.

I asked Colleen if she's performed a recent act of kindness and she said that she helped her friend, who is monocular, shop for a car.

When I asked Colleen if she had a personal mission statement or if she could think of one on the spot, she said, "to make this year the year that I get healthier!"

Day 216 - Jeff

Jeff was waiting for the bus, headphones on, when I approached him.  Once again, I had to do my little hand-flappy thing to catch his attention through his headphones.

It was another amazingly beautiful day on Friday and this had the potential to be a great picture with the iconic Hollywood Theatre sign in the background.  Being inexperienced, I completely lost the background.  I was just getting the hang of shooting at night and the dark and gloomy Portland skies, and now the sun is back out and I'm having to learn how to adjust and compensate.  The background is lost in this picture, but I'm now determined to get a nice picture with the Hollywood sign before this project is over.

Jeff agreed to let me take is picture and then he sort of laughed a little, saying, "it's not every day that someone comes up to you to ask if they can take your picture."  I agreed, saying, "yeah, I'm sorry. I know it's a little weird."  He replied, "it's Portland!"

"My job" is the happiest thing happening in Jeff's life right now.  When I asked if he's performed a recent act of kindness, he explained that he's a counselor.  His professional life is an act of kindness!

When I asked Jeff if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one, he couldn't think of anything immediately but as we talked some more, he remembered a quote that embodies what he would consider to be his personal mission statement.  The quote is by Viktor Frankl - "The meaning of our lives is to help others find the meaning in theirs."

Wow!  What a perfect mission statement, especially considering his profession.

This quote has had me thinking about the project and how I received subtle influences, and the inspiration to do this project came in many different forms. We just never know that the seemingly insignificant things we do or say in a day, may be having an influence in someone's life!

When I started this project, I had a few sources of obvious inspiration such as my friend Shauna (Nubby Twiglet) from day 128. Having started this blog and then realizing that I had nothing to blog about, I knew I had to think of something or else I would have failed at blogging in record time.  Shauna is the type of person for which failure is not an option.  She can make something out of nothing.

I also received subtle, subconscious cues or inspiration from a random source.  I have a Facebook and Instagram (@ackerleyart on instagram)  friend who was also a source of inspiration for this project. He's an artist in Wichita, Kansas, and we've never met in real life but he's helped me to find  meaning in my life. He would have never known that something he was doing was having an affect on someone half-way across the country.  James posted a series of pictures he called, "Day Walker."  They were photos of a woman he would see on his way to work.  Sometimes he would post daily, and sometimes we would go for long periods without seeing the "Day Walker."  The experience was incredible!  "Day Walker's" face was always obscured but over time, I started to write her story in my mind. "Day Walker" had become a real person to me.  I couldn't wait to see what "Day Walker" was wearing next, or if I could tell if her mood had changed.  She always seemed so sad to me.  I have no idea what her life is like, but James presented this person to us on Instagram and Facebook, and I think we all sort of wrote our own stories about "Day Walker."  It's like I couldn't start my own day, until I could first see a picture of "Day Walker." I had started to care about this random stranger, introduced to me by another stranger, and I started to care about them both. To this day, James hasn't shown a picture of "Day Walker's" face and I have no idea what she looks like.  James' "Day Walker" series planted the seed for what grew into my own 365 Day People Picture Project.

Between Shauna's constant creative influence, and James' "Day Walker" series, an idea was forming in my mind before I was even aware of it.  I had already started carrying around my camera every day (at Shauna's instruction), even though I would never use it.  I didn't even know how to use it!  Then one day I delivered an order of shirts to Donovan's Black Label Tattoo shop. While there, I asked Donovan if I could take his picture.  I snapped a few pictures and when I finished and was heading back to my car, I spotted two characters taking a smoke break outside a bar.  Still having my camera at the ready, I asked if I could take their picture and they agreed. Below is a picture of one of the men.  This picture was taken about a month before starting the 365 Day People Picture Project.

Bonus Day - The first picture I had taken of a stranger 

Shauna, James and his "Day Walker", and the two characters I met outside taking a smoke break, were the inspiration to what would later become the challenge to myself to take a picture of a person every day for a year.  Their lives shaped my life and helped me to find meaning and purpose. At least 365 days worth of meaning and purpose.  They had no idea they were having an influence on my life!

Day 217 - Connor

Saturday was another beautiful day and the opening of the Vancouver Farmers Market.  I've considered myself lucky when I could find a subject at Esther Short Park over the winter, but the park was filled with hundreds of people now that the sun is shinning and the Farmers Market is back in season. I spotted Connor sitting on a bench, reading a book.

When I approached Connor to ask if I could take his picture, he asked "why me?"  It's funny, I couldn't really explain it to him. I told him I liked his style because that's the only concrete, observable thing you can explain to a person.  (He had great style!)  It's not easy to explain to a person that they just seem like they would be "nice."

I asked Connor about the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he replied, "My relationship with my girlfriend."  I asked if he's performed a recent act of kindness and he explained that coming to Vancouver was sort of an act of kindness for his girlfriend. She had to work in Vancouver for the day so he made the trip with her. (I assume from Portland, across the bridge)

Connor thought briefly when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one on the spot.  He replied, "To be compassionate."

Thank you for following along this week!  Are you feeling as inspired by the people from this week as I am?  The people from this week have shared with us:

• "To look to the future and be happy."
• "Work hard today, so it will be easier tomorrow."
• "To get better every day."
• "To make this year the year that I get healthier!"
• "The meaning of our lives is to help others find the meaning in theirs."
• "To be compassionate."

If you've been a subject this week, thank you!  Thank you for letting me take your picture and sharing your happiness and your personal mission statements with us.  It has been an amazing week and I'm so happy to have met you!

Thank you for following along. Have you thought of your personal mission statement?

365 Day People Picture Project - Week 30

Hello! We're finished with week 30 of The 365 Day People Picture Project!

If it seems like this week is a short read, it's not your imagination.  Most of the interactions with the people from this week, were quite brief.  I think the rain is the reason.

Day 204 - Troy

This is Troy.  I met him and his co-worker at the store.

This has been one of my favorite pictures so far!

I asked Troy about the happiest thing happening in his life and he responded, "the connection I'm getting with my kids, especially my 11 year old daughter."

Troy's life is now an act of kindness.  He's 5 months into a career change, making the move from carpentry and into social work.  He's now working with CPS and although it seems like a drastic switch, Troy explained the common traits needed for both fields of work; intense work ethic, honesty, integrity, ethics.

Day 205 - Anonymous Guy in the Parking Lot

I asked Anonymous Guy in the Parking Lot about the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he replied,  "I just got a new job!"

When I asked if he's performed a recent act of kindness, he said he does just "normal stuff", such as "buying drinks for friends."

He politely declined the challenge to think of a personal mission statement.

Day 206 - Mike

"I just retired," Mike said, is the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

I haven't seen Mike in a few years, but he was a cook at one of our favorite hang-outs, Sam's Billiards.  I was so happy to run into him outside of Sam's.  Had we not run into each other, I'm not sure when I would have had the opportunity to see him again, given that he's now retired.  Mike was always so nice to me and my friends/co-workers.  He had a genuine interest in us, and our lives.

I asked Mike if he's performed an act of kindness and at first he couldn't think of anything. Knowing Mike, I was sure he had done something, so I pushed a little harder.  He then said that he gives money to street people. Given the neighborhood, I suspect this could have been nearly a daily occurrence for Mike when he was working.

It was kind of an odd question to ask someone who was on their first official week of retirement, but I went ahead and asked if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one. Mike replied, "to enjoy life and enjoy retirement!"  (May you enjoy both, Mike!)

Day 207 - Anonymous Guy on the Sidewalk

I had a lucky day on Wednesday.  It was just beginning to rain when I went out to look for a subject and I was hoping I could find someone quickly.  As soon as I parked my car, I ran into this guy.

When I asked about the happiest thing happening in his life, he replied, "my girlfriend."  He was having trouble thinking of a recent act of kindness and I could tell he was disappointed.  When I asked if he had a personal mission statement, again, he seemed like he was disappointed that he didn't have one prepared.  It was like I had sprung a pop quiz on material that he intended to study, but stopped just shy of reading.

Anonymous Guy on the Sidewalk then asked a few questions about the project, and how I went about selecting subjects. I explained that there have been a few times when I get to choose from a group of people, but most often I just get lucky and take a picture of the first person I see, like I had with him.

Day 208 - Geert

Thursday was our first trek back up to Mt. Tabor Park after having taken the winter off from the stairs.  When we arrived, I asked separate people if I could take their picture, but I was declined both times.  Although it still stings when I get declined, I make a much quicker recovery than I used to, and I no longer feel like giving up the whole project just because somebody tells me no.

We finished our stair work-out and it was starting to get dark.  I was beginning to feel the pressure to find a subject before dark and just then, we spotted Geert.  Geert was riding his bike up the hill when I stopped him.  I mean, I really "stopped" him.  When we were finished, the poor guy had to go back down the hill and then peddle back up to gain enough speed to make it up the hill!  He was so nice, he wasn't even annoyed!

"Bike riding," Geert replied, when I asked about the happiest thing happening in his life right now. Geert's recent act of kindness is donating blood.

Geert has been the first person to have a prepared personal mission statement.  He said it's been his personal mission statement for some time.  The ease with which he declared it, made it obvious that it truly is something he lives by:  "To enjoy life while leaving enough behind for future generations."  Geert works in energy conservation, so even his profession is in line with his personal mission statement.

Day 209 - Ceci

I met Ceci near the bus stop. She was sitting at a patio table and she looked so content just sitting there.  We had a few hours of spring-like sunshine on Friday and she appeared to be soaking in the last few minutes of it's warmth.  After she agreed to be in the project, I sat down at the picnic table with her in order to take her picture.  It felt like we were a couple of friends just hanging out on a patio.

I asked Ceci about the happiest thing happening in her life right now and she replied, "just living."

Ceci was having trouble thinking of a recent act of kindness but she was such a sweet girl, I have a feeling she thought of several after I had left.

I asked Ceci if she has a personal mission statement and she replied with the quote, which was first introduced to her by her high school math teacher, "it's not the destination, it's the journey."

Day 210- Dad and Son

The park at the head of my favorite trail was empty when Kacey and I finished our walk this morning, but I could see people down at the boat ramp.  I made my way down to the ramp and asked these two if I could take their picture.  They were packing it in for the day and I assumed they were some of the fishermen we had seen out on the lake during our walk.

I asked about the happiest thing happening in their lives right now and the Dad replied, "I'm going to be a grandpa."  (Not the son's baby.)  The son replied, "being with family and friends."

I asked if they've performed a recent act of kindness and the son replied, "every day."  I asked for an example and he said, "I bought Girl Scout Cookies!"  We laughed and I'm now thinking I can justify my purchase of Girl Scout Cookies as performing an act of kindness!

I asked if either of them had a personal mission statement or could make something up, and the father shared one of his favorite quotes, "the only risks you regret are the ones you didn't take."

If you've been a subject in this project, thank you!  Please don't hesitate to e-mail me if you'd like a copy of your picture.  I appreciate your kindness and sharing a little bit of yourself with us.

Thank you for reading and following along in this project!  I know how valuable your time is and I'm so honored you're taking little time out of your life and share in this project.

The time change is feeling a little brutal this morning, but I'm pretty excited about the extra hour in the evening, which will be spent at the park doing the stairs, and searching for subjects for this project!

Wishing you a great day and a happy week!

Thank you!

365 Day People Picture Project - Week 29

Thank you for checking in on week 29 of The 365 Day People Picture Project! I've had something on my to-do list since attending The Blogcademy last spring.  Actually, I have hundreds of things on my to-do list, but this is one thing that is extremely important and it's something that requires only time and consideration, so it's something I should have completed ages ago.  The Blogcademy places huge importance on developing your own personal manifesto and personal mission statement and in doing so, you develop or define your own personal brand.  This has been gnawing at me for months and then I came across this article on Fast Company, "Personal Mission Statements of 5 Famous CEOS (and why you should write one too)"

Prior to reading this, I had reached a complete block in trying to come up with a concise explanation of the person I want to strive to become.  By the time I finished reading the article, I had defined my own personal mission statement.  What had caused me months of stress, was completed in a matter of moments, simply because I read the personal mission statement of others.  Upon reading the article, my personal mission statement came to me in one effortless flash.

I was inspired by the article to find out if other people have already developed their own personal mission statement, and if they don't already have one, could they fumble through the process and think of something on the spot?   I'm excited to learn about the personal mission statements of famous CEO's, but even more exited to hear about the personal mission statements of the random people we encounter in a day!  I introduced this new question mid-week and I'm taken aback by the answers.  Of the 4 people I asked, no one was prepared with a canned response, but everyone genuinely made an effort to come up with an answer.  I imagine that after our interaction, it's possible they then went on to expand, or refine, the answers they had given. I was amazed and impressed with how each person was able to come up with a personal mission statement (or mantra)  in a matter of minutes, or at least a very good working start to one.

Day 197 - T.J. and Cameo

T.J. and I were both in tears and hugging within about 5 minutes of meeting each other.

I met T.J. and Cameo at the park at my favorite trail.  I approached her to ask if I could take her picture and she agreed.  We finished the pictures and when I asked T.J. about the happiest thing happening in her life right now, I could see that she was holding back tears.  When someone is feeling strong emotions, I get emotional too, even if I don't know why.  There we stood, two complete strangers, sharing a connection and both struggling to fight back our tears.

T.J.'s tears were actually happy tears.  She felt it was a sign that God is looking out for her because I had approached her and asked her about the happiest thing happening in her life right now. The question forced her to realize that she does have happiness in her life, even though she's currently working through a painful loss.  "I'm beginning to see the glimmer of my new life, and I'm finding out who I am," T.J. replied.

T.J. and I continued to visit for a while longer. She told me about her situation, and I just wanted to listen.  We had been placed in each others lives at that particular moment, because it was something we both needed.  T.J. was a dear and sweet woman and I won't share any more of our interaction, but I loved that as we were saying good-bye, she quoted one of my all-time favorite movies:

"...beginnings are scary, endings are usually sad, but it's the middle that counts the most. Try to remember that when you find yourself at a new beginning. Just give hope a chance to float up, and it will."  - Birdee Pruitt, Hope Floats

Day 198 - James

This is James, of the band, The Foolhardy.

We met at the Plaid Pantry convenience store.  After he finished his purchase, I asked if I could take his picture for the project and he agreed.

"Making music," is the happiest thing happening in James' life right now.

I asked James if he's performed a recent act of kindness and he said that he had arranged a benefit concert to raise money for a friend who is sick.

Day 199 - Toni

Toni's awesome style caught my attention from all the way down the street!  If I were better skilled, I would have taken a picture to show you the fabulous leopard print tights she was wearing with her skirt!

I asked Toni about the happiest thing happening in her life right now and she replied, "my passion for The Beatles."

Toni is a hair stylist at Escapade and one of her acts of kindness is that she gives free or discounted services to people who need it.  She also gives money to homeless people on the street corners.

Day 200 - Glen

We're entering the busy season at work and I've been nervous knowing there are going to be some days which are going to be extremely difficult to find a subject.  Wednesday was one of those days.  I had to attend a meeting for one of the events for which the company where I work is the souvenir merchandise supplier.  I felt a little ridiculous dragging a garment rack, which was stuffed full of apparel, through the sports bar and into the banquet room where the meeting was to be held.  Glen instantly made me feel at ease when he offered to help by moving a few chairs out of my way and opening the heavy doors into the banquet room.  He also wanted to know what the occasion was.  After I set up for the meeting, I then went back out to take a picture for the project.

I was able to catch Glen right before he started his next game of pool.  The happiest thing happening in Glen's life right now, is that he's in the process of opening a pool hall, West Coast Billiards.

When I asked Glen if he's performed an act of kindness, he looked to a friend to help him think of an example.  According to his friend, Glen is pretty much one of the nicest guys you could meet.  I could tell that from the moment I walked in the door! He stopped his game of pool just to come help me!

I introduced the new question to Glen.  I asked if he had a personal mission statement, and if not, could he think of one on the spot.  Glen didn't hesitate in coming up with his personal mission statement. He thought out loud for a moment, saying that he "wants to put others before himself," and then decided on his personal mission statement; "To be there for others."

Day 201 - Jason

This is Jason.

We met in the parking lot just as I had just parked my car to go in search of a subject. It was a lucky day since a great subject just happened to be parked right next to me!

My first impression of Jason was that he's outgoing, nice, happy, friendly and quite personable.  He is all of those things, but after talking with Jason for a while, he shared that he can be on the introverted side, so it takes effort for him to stay connected with others.   In just a few moments, I felt like I was catching up with an old friend instead of a complete stranger.  I shared with him that I felt the same way - it's much easier for me to be alone and retreat to my own mind, than it is to be with others, even though I love other people.  I admired Jason's understanding of himself.  He realizes that he's an upbeat and happy person, and that he needs to stay connected with other people to share that with others.  I was touched that two strangers, who both admittedly have to work to stay connected with other people, were able to make a connection in a parking lot and talk about our quirks with one another.

I asked Jason about the happiest thing happening in his life and he said he has a story telling performance on Monday!  You can learn more about StorySlam at the Moth website.  This sounds like something I would love to check out!

I asked Jason if he's performed a recent act of kindness and he was having trouble thinking of something recent, but instead, he told me about a fun little random act of randomness that he performs every few weeks.  Jason collects little figurines and then plants a small collection of them in unexpected places around the city!  Now, in addition to looking for subjects, I'm also going to be on the lookout for Jason's little planted figurines!

I asked Jason if he had a personal mission statement, and if not, could he try to think of one at that moment.  I love that both Jason and Glen worked through their thoughts to come up with something on the spot!  Jason decided on: "to be nicer than I normally am, so that others can be nicer than they normally are."

Good luck on your performance, Jason!

Day 202 - Nelson

I spotted Nelson from down the block and had to hurry to catch up to him.  Actually, I spotted Nelson's shirt! It was perfect and whoever was wearing that shirt, needed to be in the project. His shirt was darker than lavender, but lighter than purple, and I knew that whoever was wearing that shirt, would most likely be inclined to let me take their picture. I was right!

One of my Instagram friends said that I seem to have a knack for finding people with pretty eyes.  Since I'm often chasing a person down from behind, without any idea of what they look like, I've decided that Portland is just full of beautiful-eyed people!

Jason only had a moment to spare so we had to be quick.  I asked about the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he replied, "watching my son grow up."

When I asked if he had recently performed an act of kindness, he said that he had given $10 to a person selling "Street Roots"  (Street Roots is a newspaper which is sold by homeless people. They keep a percentage of the $1 sale price.)

I also asked Nelson if he had a personal mission statement. He actually appreciated the exercise!  His mission statement; "I believe in the power of people helping people."

Day 203 - Alisa

My friend Kacey and I had just finished 14 miles in the wind and the rain.  At around 13 miles, I told her how badly I was hoping we could find a subject at the end of the trail, because my body was pretty much finished for the day!  We reached the end of the trail and ran right into Alisa!  (one of the few other people who were out in the rain and wind.)

Alisa is training for the Boston Marathon. She's running the McKenzie River Half Marathon on the 23rd of this month, and then next stop, BOSTON!

I asked Alisa the happiest thing happening in her life, and she said that she has lots of them. She has a cute little grandson and she's happy she and her family are healthy. (Alisa was on the mend from an injury and it's so challenging to simultaneously rest/heal an injury, and keep up with a different form of training.  She managed to work through it and now she's feeling confident and well.  She looks strong!)

I asked Alisa if she's performed a recent act of kindness and she told me about a fun little tradition she has. She likes to pay for the car behind her when she crosses the Bridge of the Gods toll bridge.  She also recently invited a friend over for dinner, whose husband was out of town.

Alisa and I spent time talking about the parallels of running and life, and how training for marathons relates to life in general. The battles one faces in training and in an actual race, are like magnified and intensified versions of the struggles we face in life. I asked Alisa if she had a personal mission statement and she felt she has more of a mantra; "to be in the present."

In running, just as in life, she explained that you can't look too far ahead, and you certainly can't look too far behind in the past.  You have to be focused on where you are at that moment.  She explained that even if that moment is a trying, there comes a point when you reach homeostasis and you're able to work through that moment (or mile) and then you're onto the next.  Alisa also explained that perspective is important to her.  If a situation isn't ideal, she changes her perspective of the situation.  I love this!  We all know this, but for me, it has taken this project for me to fully grasp the concept.  If I'm trying to take a picture and it's just not working out, sometimes all I have to do is change "perspective."  I move a little to the left or to the right, or maybe try from a little higher or a little lower.  If we can't actually change a situation, we can certainly re-frame things and change our perspective and reaction to it.

I love talking with Boston caliber runners!  I'm *just* a walker but we share some of the same challenges, and we all share the same challenges in the Boston Marathon of life.  Alisa's mantra is a strategy we can all use in our daily marathon of life - be in the present, and consider our perspective.

I'm feeling confident that Kenny (from last week) is going to qualify for Boston, and now we're going to have two people to cheer on in April!

Good luck, Alisa!  We're rooting for you!

If you've been a subject in this project, thank you for sharing yourself with us and for letting me take your picture.

Thank you for reading!  In case you're wondering, the personal mission statement that I've decided on:  "I want to inspire ordinary people to do extraordinary things."

What about you? What's your personal mission statement?

Thank you again for sharing in this project!  Have a great week!

365 Day People Picture Project - Week 26

Hello! Thank you for checking in on week 26 of the 365 Day People Picture Project! Have you realized, we're basically half-way through the project?  (Technically,  182.5 is the half-way point.)  I constantly relate my life's experiences to the stages in completing a marathon.  It helps me to trudge through, no matter how difficult things may seem.  We're at 13.1 miles - now the hard work is about to begin!

So far in this project, I'm feeling like I didn't "train" hard enough for the marathon. I've not improved in my photography skills.  I'm making small progress in learning how to compose a "street portrait," but I've made zero progress on the technical side of camera operation.  Basically, it's like I set out to do a marathon with no training, other than a good pair of running shoes.    But, it is also my outsider naivety of photography that has enabled me to make it this far.  I'm discovering that many real photographers, often professionals, have a horrible fear of the thought of approaching a stranger on the street.  Because I didn't know any better, I just went out and did it!  It's funny, had I known what I was doing when it came to photography, there's no way I would have even started this project.  I had no idea what I was doing, and because of that, I'm doing it! Are there things in your life that you would have never done, had you known what you were about to do?

My delay to join a photography class until after the actual Portland Marathon last year, caused me several more months of being on my own.  I learned that most of the photography classes in the area are offered spring through late summer/early fall.  I missed my window of opportunity.  It was a great coincidence yesterday when I received an e-mail from a photographer, telling me when his next Portland workshop is scheduled.  This e-mail came  on the very same day that we hit the half-way point. It's all going to work out.  I'll keep my head on during these next few months and hopefully we'll be able to look back and observe a change or improvement in the quality of the pictures in this project.

Day 176 - Mary

This is Mary, owner of the Muddy Paws DIY Doggy Spa.  (I call it the doggy spa - it's actually a do-it-yourself dog washing facility and it is such a great place! It's a hundred times easier bathing your dog at a DIY dog washing place, than it is at home.)

It's been a while since my dog and I have been in, and I've been meaning to go back. I figured I'd have a better time taking someone's picture without my dog in tow, so I didn't tell him I was going to the dog spa.  My dog loves people, but he's really not much of a "dog person."   I was nervous for my dog the first time we went there, thinking he might have a hard time with a lot of other dogs around, but Mary helped settle us both down and my dog loved it!  We need to go back soon, so I wanted to pop in to say hi,  find out the least-busy time to go in, and also take advantage of the opportunity and ask Mary to be in the picture project.

The happiest thing happening in Mary's life right now is that she's getting married in June!  Congratulations!  I asked Mary if she's performed a recent act of kindness and she told me about a runner who was in recently with her injured dog.  The runner was on her last training run before a marathon, and her running buddy (her dog) had injured his paw.  (Muddy Paws is close to a popular running/bike trail.) The runner didn't know what to do since she was out on her run and didn't have a cell phone.  She remembered Muddy Paws, so she took her dog to the "spa" and Mary and her team performed a little paw first aid (at no charge), let the runner use the phone, and hang out until her husband could come pick up the dog.  The runner was then on her way to finish her last run before the marathon.  This is actually pretty huge. The runner would have been fine, but I totally understand that if she didn't get to finish her last run, it would have messed with her psychologically.

I wanted to ask a dog-related question to see if Mary had any great advice for us but the only thing that came to mind, was if she had any tricks to trimming your dog's nails.  She joked, "yes, bring them here, when Jessica is working!"  She then said the key to being able to trim your dog's nails is that they have to be comfortable having their paws handled.  It's best to start when they're puppies, but get them accustomed to having their paws handled and then trimming will be much easier.

Day 177 - Mark

I was wandering around looking for a subject when I met Mark.  It was freezing this day and I was so relieved when he agreed to let me take his picture.  Yes, you know by now that if it's a picture of a furry Portland guy, wearing a Carhartt jacket,  I'm completely compelled to present it to you in black & white.

Mark is the Race Director for the Portland Adult Soapbox Derby.  This is a huge event in Portland and although it's lots of fun, the amount of effort that goes into designing the race cars, and the potential for bodily harm, are both quite serious.  The event happens at Mt. Tabor Park, which is were I met several of the earlier subjects in this project.  As soon as the sun returns, Mt. Tabor will again be one of my go-to places to find subjects.  If you've ever considered racing, be sure to check out the new site:  soapboxracer.com and remember, the deadline for registering is tax day!

I asked Mark about the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he said, "steelhead season is coming."

178 - Kenneth

I spotted Kenneth as he was headed to the bus stop.  Once again, I had to chase after him for little ways, but I had to persist. It was so cold out, there were few people and few potential subjects for the day.  I'm always afraid someone is going to turn around as I'm "chasing" after them.  How embarrassing!

I asked Kenneth about the happiest thing happening in his life and he responded, "my 4 year old boy."

After I had taken Kenneth's picture, someone stopped me to ask if he was running for office.

Day 179 - Theresa

This is Theresa, at I Heart Retro.

I've seen Theresa a few other times  when I've been looking for subjects. I usually see her right after I've taken someone's picture for the day.  I finally decided I was going to check out I Heart Retro, and I was glad when I saw that Theresa was working.  Although Theresa was so nice and agreed to let me take her picture, she then started to re-consider because she said she felt tired, looked tired, and wasn't wearing any make-up.  She looks beautiful, even if she may not have been feeling it.

Theresa was stumped when I asked about the happiest thing happening in her life. She was having trouble thinking of an answer.  To ease the pressure, I told her that one guy answered "doughnuts," and another guy answered, "my cat."   After hearing this, she then immediately answered, "my cat - he's a good little kitty!"

I asked Theresa if she's performed an act of kindness and she told me that she recently purchased food for a homeless guy and his dog.

Day 180 - Jennifer

This is Jennifer, from Lowe's.

It started snowing in Portland/Vancouver on Thursday.  Snow is pretty rare for the area and when it happens, it's a pretty big deal.  The city nearly shuts down.  I was hoping to get a great picture of Jennifer out in the parking lot which was covered in a layer of fresh snow.  However, that was the first picture I had taken in the snow and it didn't turn out at all like I wanted.  Luckily, we had taken a back-up.

Jennifer is joining the Navy soon!  She's taking the test in March and she'll be leaving shortly after she passes the test.  When I asked about the happiest thing happening in her life, Jennifer replied, "being around family and friends."

I asked Jennifer if she's recently performed an act of kindness.  Jennifer explained that she gave her extra Taco Bell to a homeless couple  who hang out near there.  It's an odd coincidence that this particular homeless couple, and their dog, has been the recipient of the good deeds of at least two or three people in this project.

Good luck in the Navy, Jennifer!

Day 181 - Kyle, Eddie and Robert (from left to right)

I met Kyle, Eddie and Robert as they were walking in the snow storm.  They had just come from the grocery store.

When I asked Robert about the happiest thing happening in his life, he explained that they were on their way to get some food and then go home to watch "The Big Lebowski."  The happiest thing happening in Kyle and Eddie's life right now - Kyle is happy Eddie had flown in from New Jersey, and Eddie was happy he was on vacation.   It's pretty clear that these three guys were enjoying their snow day!  (I was really wishing I had a 35mm lens to better capture the guys amidst the snow storm!)

I asked if any of them had recently performed an act of kindness and they said that Eddie had just helped a lady at the grocery store.  She couldn't reach the half-and-half, so Eddie got it for her.  This was just the most recent example but Kyle said they try to do something all the time.

When I asked the guys if they had anything they would like to promote, they said, "good times," and "world peace."  Kyle then told me that Trial and Physical Challenge were putting on a show at Branx which was to occur yesterday.  The show is to benefit Team Aiden.   The show was cancelled due to the snow, but it will be rescheduled.  You can keep an eye on their Facebook page for the announcement of the new date.

Day 182 - Jose

This is Jose and he's also from Lowe's.  This week could have been entirely dedicated to Lowe's employees.  I think my husband has been there nearly 100 times in the past week and a half, and I've been there at least 20 times.   In addition to Jose and Jennifer, we could possibly end up with a few more Lowe's people next week...we're not even close to finishing our "little" project.

It was almost closing time when I met Jose in the parking lot. He was bringing in the carts from the freezing rain.  It was a mess, but Jose was happily working away and then he was nice enough to let me take his picture.

I asked Jose about the happiest thing happening in his life right now and his news was pretty exciting. He's saved enough money from his job at Lowe's to start college!  Classes start on Monday!

Jose also told me about his personal story, one which I won't share because I think it was "off the record."  I'm so glad he shared though. It made me realize what a great company Lowe's is and that they treat their employees well. That would explain why they provide the most helpful and friendliest customer service of all home improvement stores.  It makes the fact that we're going over budget in our little project a lot less painful, knowing that we're shopping at such a great company.

I didn't ask Jose if he's performed a recent act of kindness because I didn't want to keep him out in the snow and freezing rain.  I suspect he would have had an answer though, because he was a pretty nice and helpful guy. (Good luck, Jose!)

Thank you for following along!  We're half-way there!  If you've been a subject in this project, thank you for letting me take your picture!  This project couldn't exist without you!

I've spent so much time at Lowe's this week, it seems appropriate to close the week with their slogan -

"Never Stop Improving!"

365 Day People Picture Project - Week 25

Thank you for checking in on week 25 of The 365 Day People Picture Project! For those of you who are visiting for the first time, I've challenged myself to take a picture of a person every day for an entire year.  Usually, right about now, I would tell you that I'm not a photographer.  However, I've stopped saying that because I've concluded that it was an excuse for me not to improve. Instead I'll now explain to you that I just got my first DSLR when I started this blog a little over a year ago and I simply didn't know how to use it. I still don't know how to use it properly, but here we are...25 weeks into the challenge.

Given that this is my own self-imposed project, the only real rule I made for myself is that I don't stockpile pictures.  Each picture is taken fresh daily.  The majority of the people in this project have been strangers, but also included are friends, family, and a few co-workers.

To keep me on track and accountable, I Instagram each picture daily and then do a review of the week, here on the blog.  If you'd like to follow along, my Instagram and Twitter username is @missellanea.

Thank you for checking in!

Day 169 - Jax and his Human

I met Jax and his human at Esther Short Park in Downtown Vancouver, Washington.  They were going for a walk and I suspect Jax was also on the lookout for squirrels!

When I asked Jax's human about the happiest thing happening in his life, he replied, "my family."

I asked Jax's human if he's performed a recent act of kindness and he said he works with kids, so every day is sort of an act of kindness, whether it's being there to listen to them or joking and laughing with them.

Day 170 - Brent

This week has been extremely busy and filled with many late nights.  My fuel after work - COFFEE!

When I asked Brent about the happiest thing happening in his life, he replied, "I just got a nephew."  He's enjoying spending time with both his new nephew, and his niece.

I asked Brent if he's recently performed an act of kindness and he wasn't sure if it counted, but he said that he had purchased a baby shower gift for a co-worker.  I'm sure this definitely qualifies as an act of kindness and the expected mother would confirm!

Day 171 - Chris

This is Chris at Plaid Pantry. We've had nearly every single Plaid Pantry employee who works the evening shift at the two stores I frequent, which are on my commute home.  Guess what?  A new store just opened which is also on one of my routes home.  This means more subjects!

Chris is full of personality!  When I leave his store, my mood is definitely lifted.  The first time I stopped at the new store, I pulled into the parking lot and when I looked inside the window, it looked like Chris was dancing.  As I paid for my purchase, I asked, "did I just catch you dancing?" He laughed and confirmed that he was indeed, dancing!  I liked him from that moment on.

When I asked Chris about the happiest thing happening in his life, he replied, "a woman named Angie."  (His girlfriend.)  I asked if he's recently performed an act of kindness and he said, "of course, every single day!"

Chris and I visited , since there were no customers, and as I was leaving, he said goodbye with a handshake and a hug.

A few days after taking this picture, I went in his store and noticed he sounded differently when he greeted me.  He explained, "I'm speaking in an accent today."  Then he continued in his accent throughout the transaction and I was on my way.  If life isn't interesting at a given moment, Chris makes it so!

Day 172 - Sharon

Sharon saved us from having a men-only week!  I like to have a balance between men and women, but it has actually been quite a challenge to find women subjects.  It seems like I see three times as many men when I'm looking for subjects. When I do find a woman, I often just let her pass by if she looks unapproachable for whatever reason.  I don't want to interrupt their space if they look like they're on a mission.  This project has given me an entirely new perspective and appreciation for people who are in the dating game.  I actually feel sorry for guys now.  It must take a lot of courage for them to work up the confidence to approach a woman, because I think we often appear to be on a mission or deep in thought, which could come across as being unapproachable.

Although I passed Sharon on the sidewalk and she was walking quickly to her destination, she gave off a nice vibe so I quietly asked, "hi, could I take your picture for my picture project?"  She kept walking past me a few steps and when my question registered, she turned back around and looked interested. (well, I don't know if she was interested, but she didn't look annoyed with me!)  I explained the project and she hopped right on board!

Ironically, she told me that she had just taken the picture of a random stranger walking down the street.  She works in fashion, so she does this quite often!  I asked if she asks people if she can take their picture, or if she does so stealthily.  She's stealth-like!.  (It's kind of fun to think that you could be walking down the street and serving as inspiration to someone.)

It turned out that Sharon works for a company, Looptworks, which is both a customer and vendor of the company where I work.  Looptworks is one of my favorite Portland businesses.  I love their products and their entire philosophy of up-cycling.

Day 173 - Sean

This is Sean.  It's been ages since I've seen him, but I've known Sean for several years. He works at an old favorite happy hour destination of my co-workers. I spotted him outside on break as I was wandering the streets looking for a subject.  Nothing like having your break interrupted by someone who wants to take your picture! I was happy to say hello, and happy he obliged in letting me take his picture.

I asked Sean about the happiest thing happening in his life and he replied, "my four children."

Day 174 - Yuri

I met Yuri on the sidewalk.  The bus had just scooped up all of my potential subjects from one of my favorite go-to spots and as I turned around to go search elsewhere, there stood Yuri.  After we had been talking for a while, he told me the reason he let me take his picture is because he knows what it's like to approach someone to talk with them, and have them look at you like you're crazy.  He said he's a reject of society.  I appreciate that he didn't want me to feel rejected and allowed me to take his picture.

Although our interaction was brief, I could tell that he's extremely intelligent and his mind is complex.  He speaks in a way that I would describe as poetic.  My note-taking couldn't keep up with his speech, so I finally gave up trying and just allowed myself to completely engage.

Yuri told me that he's not a happy guy but when I pressed him for the happiest thing happening in his life, he responded that he's happy to be moving back to California soon.

Yuri was deep and intense, but we also joked and laughed a little.  It was important to me to show you a picture that conveyed him looking happy.  I guess his declaration that he's not a happy guy was like a challenge to me to get a happier-looking picture.  This was proving to be difficult, as his pictures were also coming across as intense.  I could see his sparkle when we were talking, but once again, I was struggling to catch it.  I finally asked Yuri to please smile and look at me as though he could see my eyes.  Once again, he made some sort of remark that he's not one to smile.  I finally told him to just fake it and to smile at me with his eyes. I told him the act of just faking it might even make him happy.   My awkward and uncomfortable request worked.  If even for just a moment, Yuri's smile was genuine and I was able to catch it. For just a moment, I think he was happy.

After thanking Yuri and saying goodbye, I re-played our conversation in my mind and analyzed it like you would analyze a movie with a good plot-twist.  I determined that I just couldn't process it and decided I didn't want to.  What was most important to me was the hope that Yuri was happier when we concluded our interaction. He may have had to fake his happiness, and he did so at the request of a complete stranger, but for that moment, his smile was genuine.

Day 175 - Runner at Lacamas

My co-worker friend, Kacey, has officially decided to walk the Race for the Roses Half Marathon with me in April, so we headed back to Lacamas to get in some miles.

We had just finished our 9 miles and I was about to begin my search for a subject when we met up with this man in the parking lot.  He said hello and asked me how much I walk.  He said, "I see you every weekend!"  I laughed and told him we had done 9 miles.  We then told him about Kacey's decision to do the half-marathon, and how up until last weekend, her furthest distance had been a 5K.  I asked how many miles he had done and he told us he did 9 miles on his own, and 3 with his dog.

We talked some more about training and I asked if he's done any marathons or half-marathons.  He did his first half-marathon this summer.   He then went on to tell us that he's "not a runner."  I laughed inside.  I didn't want to break the news to him that he was most definitely a runner, considering he put in 12 miles this morning.

He and his pup had just enough energy to visit with us and let me take his picture, but he was pretty spent after that.  I asked about the happiest thing happening in his life and he replied, "too much to answer."  I hoped that meant he has lots of happiness in his life.

If you've been a subject in this project, I just want to thank you for your time and for letting me take your picture. I hope that since our interaction, you've thought of many more happy things in your life and happiness will continue to be in abundance for you.  Thank you!

Wishing you happiness this next week!

365 Day People Picture Project - Week 22

Hello! If you're stopping by for the first time, I've challenged myself to take a picture of a person every day for an entire year.  I instagram the pictures daily and then post a review of the week, here on the blog.  The main rule I've given myself is that the pictures are taken fresh daily. I'm not stockpiling pictures for use at a later time.

I had visions for this blog to be something quite different and eventually, it will mature. I've given myself the permission to evolve slowly and for now, concentrate on the 365 Day People Picture Project.

Week 22 of the 365 Day People Picture Project is a wrap!

Day 148 - Ward

This is Ward.  He's a Fire Chief and he's training for a Half Marathon.  Ward had just finished 7 miles when I approached him.  (I had given up looking for subjects at my second-favorite trail and headed over to my first-favorite trail and that's where I met Ward.)

When I asked Ward about the happiest thing going on in his life, he replied, "just being able to run."  Ward is just coming off the injured list himself, but what has really impacted his appreciation for health and wellness, is the recent death of a family member and that another family member is currently in their own battle against a potentially terminal illness.

Ward and his wife are both in training  - Ward for a half-marathon, and his wife is training for the full.  Ward joked that he only wanted to hurt half-as-bad.

It was when I asked Ward if he's recently performed an act of kindness, that he told me about his job as a Fire Chief.  I knew at that moment that his life is basically one big act of kindness, and his job is perfectly fitting because he's such a nice man.  Ward explained that over the holidays, all of the city workers gave in some way.  His group collected toys and gifts for kids in need.

I had a nice visit with Ward, and because of this project, I now have one more trail-friend to say hello to and check in on his training progress.

Day 149 - Kara

Kara is a co-worker.  I had to cheat a little and ask her to be in the project because my car had to spend a few days in the shop and I wasn't able to get around to look for people.  Although I had a couple other nice co-workers who helped me get to and from work, I didn't think they'd appreciate me also asking them if they could also drive me up and down random streets and circle the block while I looked for subjects.

I love working with Kara!  She's fun,  spunky,  and always happy!  She keeps calm when we're under intense pressures, and helps to solve problems and challenges. She's also a single mom and I can't even wrap my head around how she manages to work as hard as she does at our job, and also take care of her family and home.  She's another super-woman who balances both an intense job and single-motherhood, is amazing at both, and is also just a great person to be around.

During baseball season, Kara works all day and then she's off with her son to the ball fields for several more hours of games or practice.   Kara is now on the board of her son's baseball league and is their team's treasurer.  "I'm happy we're advancing to an intermediate field," is what Kara said when I asked about the happiest thing going on in her life.  Kara and the other parents have a lot of hard work ahead of them because in order to make this expansion and renovation on their ball field, they're all having to put in a lot of labor to keep the project affordable for the league.  Kara is also looking forward to taking her son snowboarding this weekend.

Kara and I had been working together for several months before we actually spent time together outside of work.  In all the time we had worked together, we hadn't ever talked about anything other than t-shirts, so when we did get to talk about our lives, we learned that our husbands had worked together years ago!  We had no idea we shared that connection.

When talking with Kara about how impressive she is because of everything she manages to do in her busy life, I learned the funniest little secret/trick about how she functions and gets it all done.  I think Kara is the only human you'll ever meet who actually has an alarm set on her phone, not to wake her up, but to tell her it's time to go to bed!  She said that when she gets home, she doesn't sit down because the minute she sit's down, she'll fall asleep.  She cooks and cleans and spends time with her son, but she doesn't allow herself to sit.  She would get so wrapped up in working around the house, she finally had to start setting her alarm clock to tell her it was time to go to bed.  See, I told you she was Superwoman!

Day 150 - Crystal

This is Crystal.  I was nervous about approaching her because it was dark and the part of town we were in can be a little intimidating.  I didn't want to startle her.   Although our interaction was brief, I learned a great deal about how personality can actually ooze through a picture.

Crystal was waiting for her ride to show so I was only able to ask the questions and take 4 quick snaps before her ride arrived.  "Spending time with my 9-year-old son," was Crystal's reply when I asked about the happiest thing happening in her life.  No matter what Crystal's day may have been like, her son always brightens her day.  When I asked if she's performed an act of kindness, she told me that she and her friend recently came upon a homeless person holding a sign at an intersection, stating that he was needing a warm meal.  Crystal and her friend went through a fast food drive-thru and purchased a meal for him. When they returned to give it to the man, his eyes filled with tears as he thanked them.

Crystal was totally comfortable in front of the camera and practically posed!  Each look she gave me, took on it's own unique feel and personality.  Although I knew at the time I took the pictures that each one had a slightly different feel to it, it wasn't until I got home and sat down in front of the computer that I was able to so clearly see the difference in each photo.  In this situation,  Crystal is largely responsible for this because she was comfortable and she simply gave me different looks. I'm new and inexperienced so I don't yet know how to direct someone or coach them into a particular look or "pose."  (other than the squinch.)  Having experienced this with Crystal, I now have a much better understanding and appreciation of how a subject and photographer can actually "create" an image together, rather than simply capture an image.

Crystal was wearing a casual outfit and a baseball cap which was turned toward the back.  Depending on the expression on Crystal's face and the angle and point one view from which the picture was taken, 3 of the 4 pictures gave off varying degrees of a girl with fun sassiness, street-style, and a sprinkling of athleticism.  However, after talking with Crystal and getting to know her better, my perception of her was that she's a beautiful mother with a kind heart.  In this picture, the visor of the cap was positioned in such a way that it is indistinguishable whether she's wearing a baseball cap or beret style hat.   I liked each of her pictures, but in our limited interaction, Crystal gave me the impression of a kind and a loving mother. This picture shows a person who is both a loving mother, and a fun-loving young lady.

Day 151 - Tucker

This is Tucker at Plaid Pantry.  I thought I had taken every person's picture who works this particular shift at this particular store, but then I realized I hadn't asked Tucker.

I think I've mentioned before how challenging it is to take a nice picture in this store.  There's a reflective covering on the window and tons of busy distractions in the background, and I'm always hurried and trying to take the picture in a rush before another customer comes in. I don't want them to be inconvenienced while I'm taking a picture.  I was trying to position Tucker in a little tiny area where there was an opening in the background but it turned out that the space was a lot smaller than I thought and the tiny little opening ended up looking more distracting than had I not tried to position him there at all.  I'm learning so many lessons the hard way!  I get so bummed when I don't get a great picture of the people who are always so friendly to me!

The happiest thing in Tucker's life right now is that he and his girlfriend are soon moving into an apartment together.  I asked if he's performed a recent act of kindness and he said, "I try to do something everyday…gotta be kind to our fellow man."

Day 152 - John

This is John and he's got to be one of the nicest guys out there.  I had been wandering around looking for a subject for a while, without any luck, so I got in my car and headed to a different location.  It was starting to rain so I was hopeful I'd find someone quickly!  When I spotted John, I couldn't help but notice that he was carrying a giant bouquet of flowers which made me want to stop him, but he also looked like he was in a rush, so I was also hesitant to delay him.  I got up the courage and asked him if I could take his picture.  John was quickly agreeable.

Some of the subjects in this project have surprised me with how willing they are to let me take their picture without hardly any explanation of the project.  I'm always impressed with their comfort in front of the camera and also that they act like it's a normal thing for a person to approach them on the street and ask for their picture.  Those people have often turned out to be photographers, or they're close to a photographer .  In their lives - it is a normal thing!  It turned out that John was a photojournalist in college!

I asked John the happiest thing happening in his life and he answered me back with a question, wondering if people always say that it's their kids.  The happiest thing for him is his 9-year-old, but he's also happy with his girlfriend.

When I asked John if he's recently performed an act of kindness, he said, "yes, we just had Christmas but I try to do things all the time."  I could tell his vague answer was an attempt to be humble and I just knew he had something interesting to share, so I was happy when he opened up.  John owns a heating company, Chase Heating, and he had just finished a job he had done gratis for a woman who was in need and didn't have any heat.  He had given his time, labor, and a new furnace to the woman.

You can just tell by looking at John that he's a good guy, and his answer confirmed it.  We visited for a while longer and as we were about to part, I asked if the flowers were for his girlfriend.  He explained that he was on his way to see a family member who had just had another family member pass away.

John was a little turned around and trying to find his car which he remembered parking near a Bank of America. I pointed him in the direction of the bank block where I had just come from, in which there's practically a bank on every corner.  That is, every bank except Bank of America which is in the completely opposite direction!  I realized after he had already taken off down the street that I steered him in the wrong direction.  I felt so awful!  I went running after him but he was too fast and completely out of sight!  I gave up and got back in my car to see if I could find him to give him the correct directions.  I finally spotted him. He had figured it out and was headed in the right direction. Once again, he was such a nice guy, he wasn't even annoyed with me and my mistake as I hollered my sincere apology out the window.  I may have heard him incorrectly but I think he said something like, "it's ok, it was a nice walk."  Poor guy, I accidentally sent him on a "nice walk" in the cold and rain.  He really is a nice person.

I enjoyed meeting John but was disappointed in the picture.  I intentionally wanted the lights from the businesses and street to be in the background, but I didn't intend for the crosswalk sign to be so distracting.  Now that I've mentioned it to you, it's completely overwhelming, isn't it?  Again, I'm learning things the hard way.

You might be asking why I end up with so many bad shots.  Aside from being inexperienced and basically clueless, when I first started taking pictures, I intuitively allowed myself to get caught up in the moment and I wouldn't  stop to look at every single picture on the display screen.  I found the act of stopping to check each picture to be somewhat of a mood-killer and a huge interruption to my train of thought as images were forming in my mind and I was trying to figure out how to create and capture the images as I was seeing them in my head.  I've since learned that this is actually a good practice and is encouraged by pros and artists, however, for someone starting out, there needs to be a balance.  Shoot a few - review - shoot a few - review - and do so until you're certain you have the image you're looking for.  This allows for a smooth and uninterrupted flow, but the review process also ensures you'll end up with good pictures.

I struggle with finding that balance because of the circumstances and my inexperience.   Often times, we're in a huge race against a bus or some other pressing time constraint, and sometimes I simply get so caught up in the moment and the person, or making a connection with that person, that I miss the completely obvious. (such as cross walk signs and recycle bins in the background)  As much as this is a challenge to learn photography, it has also been been a challenge to learn how to connect with someone so that I can capture their sparkle, and a challenge to make that connection quickly!  I've found I can get so wrapped up in finding a persons nice features, that I simply forget to look for the huge distractions in the background.  I know this will improve with time and lots of practice.  For now, it's still quite easy for me to get lost in people's eyes, smiles, and expressions.  Although the results can be a distracting photo, getting lost in the faces of my subjects has also been a rewarding part of this experience. During that moment of temporary tunnel vision, it feels like I'm in the process of forming a permanent impression.  I'm not talking about pixels and the memory card in my camera, I'm talking about the permanent mark that this experience is leaving on my brain and how my life is changing because of each and every picture I take.  Sometimes it's not as beautiful as this. Sometimes I'm just an idiot and need to pay better attention to the background and remember to check the view screen to make sure I have a good picture.

Day 153 - Carly

I go to Costco after work every other Friday and those days are usually one of my most challenging days, although I've also met a couple of my most favorite subjects at Costco! By time I finish with my shopping, it's "late" and I'm exhausted.  On Fridays, I often rely on my two favorite "assistants,"  Anne and Scott.  I meet up with one of them at a pub, knock back a few diet pepsis, and look for a subject there.

I had arranged to meet Anne and her friends but I first needed to fuel up on Starbucks so that I could stay up late.  (you know, late, as in - 9pm.)  Carly helped me at Starbucks and after giving me my coffee, she asked if I would like anything else.  Thinking that she looked like a nice person and that it would actually be quite nice to find a subject before meeting up with Anne, I asked if I could take her picture.  I know that's not quite what she had in mind when she asked If I'd like anything else, but that's really what I wanted most - a picture!

Carly happily agreed. Don't worry, there wasn't anyone else in line behind me!

The happiest thing happening in Carly's life is that she's going on a trip to visit her sister who moved to the East Coast last year.  I asked Carly if she's recently performed a random or not- so-random act of kindness.  She went on to explain her situation and that it's not a random act of kindness, but that she makes it a point to visit her brother often.  Her brother has MS and he doesn't get out much, so it's important for her to go see him as often as she can, even if it means she has to pass on other social invitations.

Day 154 - Shawn

Shawn is another artist at Donovan's Black Label Tattoo.  You've  met the rest of the crew: Donovan was day 10 and Matt was day 122.  There may actually be one more artist, but I need to check on that and if so, I'll be sure to ask for his picture as well.

I wish I could say that I was the shop getting some ink, but I actually called ahead to ask Shawn if I could take his picture.  I had been having a hard time finding a subject today and  Shawn agreed to let me come in. The timing was perfect!

I arrived just as he was putting the finishing touches on client's arm, so I was able to take a few pictures of him at work and I also caught a serious case of tattoo envy.  Not wanting to make his client feel uncomfortable, I didn't ask to take her picture but I loved her work!

I've always known that Donovan was an excellent tattoo artist and after having the opportunity to hang out at the shop a little and meet Matt and Shawn and see their work, I can say with 100% certainty, that everyone in the shop is an amazing and skilled tattoo artist.  I'd send my own mother there!

The clients of the shop are always so interesting, and sometimes, unexpected.  On one of my visits,  there was a Grandmother, Mother and Daughter and two of them were getting work done.  Tonight, the client that Shawn was working on asked about the project and said that if I would be interested in a Police Officer, to let her know.  Turns out, she was a Police Officer! Yes! I told her that I've wanted a Police Officer because we've also had EMT's and  a Fireman as subjects.   I told her that I had been rejected by several police but she explained it was just because they were on duty at the time.  I understand that.  I joked that although I don't want to be pulled over, I think it would make a great picture if I could take it from the point of view of being in my car and looking up through the driver's side window, toward an officer.  (This idea  might go over with as much success as the time I thought it would be great if I took a picture of my dentist while I was reclined in the chair.) I sort of blew it because I got distracted admiring her tattoos and talking with Shawn and I forgot to get her card!

When I asked Shawn about the best thing happening in his life, he responded, "my career is taking off since I started working at this shop."  He likes the cool projects he's a part of.  I also asked Shawn if he's recently performed an act of kindness and he said that he hasn't been charitable with money, but he gives a ton of his time.  Shawn mentors two young artists and of his time, he gives them each anywhere from 4 hours to 20 hours a week!  Nearly everything he does is in some way related to tattooing.  I admire the level of passion and commitment of these artists.  It's not just their job, it is their life!

Shawn is also a sweetheart and it's even obvious in pictures.   I explained the "squinch" and asked if he could give it a try.  I was glad he was willing to humor me.  I think the result was a nice 3/4 squinch - he looks like a nice guy with a bit of an edge.

Thank you for following along another week! I had been feeling a little down about the lack of  quality of my pictures this week,  but when I sat down to button up this post, I realized that it hasn't mattered how good or not-good the photos have been.  I always close the week feeling so happy to be working on this project, meeting such great people, and sharing it with you!  If you'd like to follow along during the week, you can follow me on Instagram - my username is @missellanea. 

If you happen to be reading this and you were a subject in this project - thank you!   You've left an impression on me as permanent as a tattoo. I appreciate the time you gave to me, and the act of kindness you did in letting me take your picture.  Thank you. If you would like a copy of your picture, please e-mail me and I'd be happy to e-mail it to you!

What about you? Have you been inspired to star a project of your own or challenge yourself to something new?

365 Day People Picture Project - Week 20

Hello! Thank you for checking in on week 20 of the 365 Day People Picture Project.

If you're checking in for the first time, I'm not a photographer.  I started this blog and quickly realized, I'm not a blogger either.  This presented a bit of a problem.  Successful bloggers need interesting and photo-rich content to capture people's attention.  Feeling like I didn't have blog-worthy life experiences, and knowing that I certainly didn't know a thing about photography, I decided to face this seemingly-impossible-to-solve problem head-on, and make a go at it anyway.

I challenged myself to take a picture of a person every single day, for an entire year, and share that process with you.   The majority of the subjects have been complete strangers.  Also included, so far, are a few friends, family, co-workers, a couple rock stars and a famous author.   I post the pictures to Instagram each day, and if you'd like to follow along, my username is @missellanea.

As soon as local photography workshops start up again, I will join in a few, but in the meantime, I've just been absorbing information from photography blogs and videos. Although I started this project to learn about photography, I'm learning far more about myself and about people.  It's getting a little easier for me to approach people, but I still have a long ways to go before we'll be able to see an observable and measurable improvement in my photography skills.

Day 134 - Ron

Ron is an acquaintance of Scott, from day 83.

I'm beginning to see that Anne and Scott's hangout is basically a version of "Cheers," with both of them being like the "Norm" character. They both know everybody and were it not for them and their willingness to let me hang out with them while I search for a subject, the project could have ended by now.

There have been days when I've been completely unable to find a subject. Sometimes the reason is that I can't seem to find a person who looks approachable, sometimes I simply lack the confidence to approach someone, and sometimes I simply can't find anyone who is agreeable to letting me take their picture.  It is on those days that I end up at their "Cheers," and someone always saves the day and the project! Ron was one such person.

When I asked Ron the happiest thing happening in his life, he responded, "…that I woke up this morning and that I've got a job I've had for 31 years and I still love what I do."

I also introduced a new question and asked Ron if he's performed any recent random acts of kindness.  Ron thought about the question for a long time.  I could tell by the look in his face, he was feeling a little discouraged.  He said, sadly, he hadn't gone out of his way to do an act of kindness.  Ron was specifically referring to giving money to a person or organization.  I reminded him that he was letting me take his picture, which would help me with this project, and that was an act of kindness.  I then probed a little further and suggested that he surely must do something kind, such as hold the door open for people or visit with a cashier at the store.  He happily agreed, "yes, I'm a gentlemen!  I always treat people the way I want to be treated!"

Day 135 - Jesse

Jesse is another friend of Scott and Anne's.  Is this cheating? (Twice in one week?)

Even though I had made several stops on my way home, I hadn't been able to find an approachable subject. It was Christmas Eve - Eve and I think people were in get-stuff-done mode.  I didn't want to interrupt people who looked like they were deep in thought or intent on wrapping up their last minute power-shopping.  So, I ended up back at "Cheers."

I'm glad that circumstances led me back there.  Jesse is a cool person and there could possibly be another family + dogs portrait session in the near future.  (Remember my first hilarious attempt at family + dog portraits back on week 18?)

When I asked about the happiest thing going on right now, Jesse responded, "my job."  Jesse is among the top 10 salespeople at her job.  Jesse attributes her success to being sincere, personable, and working to build a good rapport with customers.

I asked Jesse if she's performed any recent acts of kindness or intends to in the future.  Jesse humbly responded, "I try to do at least 2 or 3 a day."  Overhearing our "interview," Jesse's friend interjected - "Jesse is the nicest person you'll meet!"  The friend then proceeded to tell me that just a few minutes before I arrived, Jesse had given gas money to a person who was stranded at the gas station next door and this is the sort of thing Jesse does all the time!

Day 136 - Megan

Megan is a family friend. We spent Christmas Eve together.  As I was writing this, I was struck with the realization that she was in grade school when we first met and now she's grown into a beautiful woman.

Christmas Eve was so low-key and enjoyable.  There were only 7 of us but we had enough food to feed more like 37 people.   We were all so stuffed and content just being cozy,  Megan was the only one willing to be the subject for the day.

I asked Megan about the happiest thing happening in her life, she responded, "I have someone who loves me."

Megan and I live in the same area, so when she told me about her recent act of kindness, I knew exactly who she was talking about.  A young homeless couple and their dog have been hanging around the same part of town for a few months now.  Megan recently picked up fast-food on her way home and after seeing the couple sitting on the sidewalk, she decided to give them the meals she had just purchased.

Day 137 - Lou

Lou was the subject on Christmas Day.  He's practically family.  Lou is married to one of my very best friends, Debbie, from day 105.

Although Debbie and Lou have been together for several years now, sadly, I know little about him.  We always joke that when we're all together, none of the husbands can say a word because we girls are always laughing and talking so loudly!  We don't shut up!  Poor Lou. I know he's an interesting and special person, but we don't get to hear it from him.  I just know how special he is because of the way he loves and cares for my dear friend.  And for that, I love him too.

Practically the only time we get to hear much from Lou, is when his band, Bad Habit, plays a show.  Until recently, Bad Habit has been mainly a classic rock cover band and I'm not sure who has more fun at their shows - the band, or us!  Recent changes in the band are resulting in more original songs and the second happiest thing happening in Lou's life right now is he's got a lot of new music coming out.  Lou said,  "just getting ready to celebrate 10 years together with Debbie," is the happiest thing happening in his life.

I didn't even have to ask Lou if he's performed a recent act of kindness…I know first hand that he had just finished an act of kindness less than an hour before this picture was taken.

This really deserves it's own post and I need to carve out the time to tell you more about Project Brown Bag Northwest.  For now, pardon me while I give you the short version.

If you remember last year, one of my very first posts was around Christmas time and it was about Project Brown Bag Northwest.  We've continued to press on with Project Brown Bag, not nearly as much as we would like to, but we're continuing with our efforts to distribute brown bag snack lunches to homeless people.

On Christmas day, we went to Downtown Portland and handed out hot chocolate, soup and snack sack lunches, and distribute gloves, hats, scarves and blankets that we had collected from friends and/or purchased ourselves.  Lou is instrumental in Project Brown Bag Northwest.  Although all of our families contribute, Lou and Debbie contribute a big portion of the supplies and the space to store and assemble our bags.  In addition, they "live"  Project Brown Bag Northwest on a daily basis, rather than just on the days that we get together to distribute bags en masse.

We didn't exchange gifts with each other or even share dinner together, but we all agreed this was the best Christmas we had ever had.

Lou is actually a soft-spoken (if we ever let him get a word in) teddy bear, but I realize this picture makes him look pretty tough.   I told him it was his rock star look, but I don't think he was convinced.   The badass look is entirely due to the "squinch!"  (Lou humored me and we practiced Peter Hurley's "squinch" technique.)

Day 138 - Stylish Man at the Bus Stop

Thursday was another challenging day.  I wandered around the Hollywood District, in Portland, for quite some time.  Several people had politely and not-so-politely declined me when I asked if I could take their picture.  Just as I was about to give up and move on to someplace else, I spotted this man sitting on a bench and waiting for the bus.  I approached him and asked if I could take his picture for my picture project. I was so happy when he agreed!  As I readied the camera, another man at the bus stop told me that I'd better hurry, the bus is coming!  I looked up and saw that it wasn't actually coming, it was already there!

I quickly snapped the picture and told the man that since his bus was here, we wouldn't have time for me to ask him my question.  He asked, well, what's the question?  "What's the happiest thing going on in your life right now," I asked.  "Life itself," the man replied, as he boarded the bus.

Did you notice the little angel above this man's left shoulder?  I didn't love the giant cheeseburger in the background, but I loved the angel and thought it was appropriate that this nice man had a little angel on his shoulder.

Day 139 - Jake and Jake

I was loading my car after my Costco trip and after I found a place in the trunk for a 192-pound bag of lemons, I looked up and saw these two.  The picture project force was definitely with me at that moment.  Jake and Jake were characters!

I didn't get to learn a whole lot about them because they were busy eating! They had just hit up the Costco deli right before we had met.  I asked the happiest thing going on their lives and the Jake on the left responded, "this cookie."  The Jake on the right responded, "this hot dog!"

I asked if they had recently performed any acts of kindness and the the Jake on the left said that he had just picked up a bunch of friends from the airport.  The Jake on the right said that he hadn't done anything and declared that he's "pretty much an ass@%$*."  They were so likable, I was certain that the Jake on the right must have recently performed some sort of kind act.  I pried a little more but Jake on the left agreed that yes, he really is an ass.

I'm still not buying it!

Day 140 - Sparkle Josh

The weather was unseasonably pleasant today, so I decided to look for a subject at Esther Short Park, in Downtown Vancouver, Washington.  When I arrived at the park, I could see that a fairly large wedding party was in the process of their photo shoot.  I stayed out of the photographer's way and as I was walking around the group, I noticed a guy sitting on a bench.  He was dressed so stylishly, I assumed he was with the wedding party, although he wasn't dressed like the groomsmen.  I approached the guy and asked if he was with the wedding group.  He confirmed he was. I asked if I could take his picture for my project and he agreed and joked that we could have our own little photo shoot.

When I asked him his name, he said that his friends call him "Sparkle," but that his name is Josh.  I inquired as to why he was on the bench instead of taking pictures and Josh replied, "I'm sort of the black sheep."

Black sheep or not, when I asked Josh the happiest thing happening in his life, he gestured to the wedding party and said, "my Brother's wedding."  Josh joked that he was also happy that there was going to be an open bar at the reception.

Josh was a sweetheart and when I asked if he has performed any recent acts of kindness, he explained that he does volunteer work for the gay and lesbian community.

When I remember and when time allows, I ask the subjects if I can promote anything for them on my blog.  (such as their own blog, business, band, art, etc.)  Josh said he would just like to promote "equality, happiness, for everyone to get along, and happy shit like that."

I really liked Josh.  After I drove away, I wished that I would have asked him if I could be his date and crashed the wedding!  Perhaps it's a good thing that I hadn't thought of this brilliant idea until after I had driven off.

This post could end right here - but I've decided to tell you something. I entered a photography contest!  I know, I know…for 140 days, I've been telling you that I'm not a photographer, so why in the world would I enter a photography contest?  The sole reason that I decided to enter is because the contest isn't judged on the technical quality of the photograph, but rather, the ability to direct a subject to "squinch."

That's right!  Peter Hurley, the photographer behind the "It's all about the Squinch" video and the "It's all about the Jawline" video, is having a contest and I decided to enter.  If you've been following along, you know that I stumbled upon Peter Hurley's videos after starting this project and and that I've been working on the "squinch" with several subjects since first watching the video.

Although I have a burning desire to learn photography and it's a huge motive for even starting this project, I'm also realistic that I've started learning about photography at such a late point in my life, I know that I will never master it.  I'm currently struggling with my understanding of ISO, shutter speed, and aperture.  I know I'll never master these technical aspects of photography, but from the moment I watched Peter Hurley's videos, I immediately grasped that there are a few directorial techniques I can implement which will help people to give more flattering photographs.  I want for people to feel good about themselves when they look at a picture I've taken of them.

To enter the contest, you were to submit a side-by-side photo showing a person before-squinch and after-squinch.

Do you remember Andrew, the kid from last week who crashed my mini photo-shoot with Nubby?  I decided to submit his photo.  Aside from not being a photographer, there were two huge issues working against me:

1)  In all of the pictures I had taken of Andrew, I had been directing him to squinch, so I didn't really have a good "before-squinch."  I only had a picture showing a lesser degree of squinching.

2) My favorite picture of Andrew and the one in which he had the best squinch, is a picture of him smoking.  Smoking is such a taboo, I agonized about whether or not to submit the photo.  I finally decided to go for it  after realizing some of my favorite photographs are of people smoking.

I suspect that anyone who has looked at the picture I submitted, has probably questioned my decision to make such a submission. (Perhaps even my photography idol, Peter Hurley, has questioned my decision to submit the photo and perhaps even made fun of me? Well, he doesn't even know me - but you know what I mean, it's possible he thought, "what kind of a person would submit such a photo" when he came across my submission)  But, what's done is done.  I think Andrew was a beautiful subject and I love the picture. (But I do wish him good luck and hope that he's successful in his effort to quit smoking soon.)

Most of the other submissions, with a few exceptions, appear to be from professional photographers or at least of professional-level quality.  Hey, what can I say?  I'm not a photographer, I submitted a photo taken at night, on the patio of the Doug Fir Lounge,  of a complete stranger whom I asked to "squinch" within the first 5 minutes of knowing him.

You can check out the other submissions here.  The contest ends on New Year's Eve.  I'm not expecting to win or even place - but I'm just happy I got up the nerve to make a submission, even if my entry was quite unconventional.

If you're new to this project or if you've been following all along, I'm honored that you've taken the time to read this and share in my project.  Thank you.

If you've been a subject in this project - thank you.  This is really your project and you showed me a great deal of kindness when you let me take your picture.  Thank you for your time and your generosity.

Wishing you a very happy and successful new year!

365 Day People Picture Project - Week 19

Week 19 of the 365 Day People Picture Project was an extra special week!   I had two VIP subjects - My brother and my friend Shauna, who is basically the reason this project even exists. Day 127 - Man Walking Dog on the Lake Trail

This man and his dog, Tramp, were leaving the trail just as I arrived for my Sunday morning walk.  It had been raining that morning and they were both pretty soggy.

Tramp is a sweetie and one of the most gentle dogs I've ever met. He's an old fella, but he gives you irresistible puppy-dog-eyes.

Tramp and his human walk the trail twice a day.  I only get to walk those trails on the weekends and it is one of my favorite things to do.  Walking those trails grounds me and keeps me happy. When I asked Tramp's human about the happiest thing going on in his life, he responded, "this right here."  We visited for a while about our appreciation for the trail and Tramp accepted a biscuit and some lovin from me.

Here are a couple more pictures from my walk the morning that I met Tramp and his human.

It was so foggy and misty that the sky was absent of color, so the photos actually came out looking black & white.  (These have been enhanced slightly, and one is now more sepia-looking.)

Day 128 - Shauna, AKA - Nubby Twiglet

Meet Shauna, one of the best graphic designers in the Northwest, sweetheart, friend, and an amazing girl who makes things happen and gets things done.

Shauna is truly an amazing and inspiring person.  The girl does not stop. She doesn't take no for an answer and if something can't be done, she'll find a way to do it.  And, she'll push you to do the same.

You've actually met her husband, Joey, back on day 6.

Shauna is basically the entire reason you're reading this now.  I've been acquainted with Shauna and have followed her blog, Nubby Twiglet, for years.   I didn't really understand blogging, but what I did understand is that I enjoyed seeing snippets of her life and her evolution as a designer and blogger.  Never in a million years would I have thought that I would someday have my own blog - but if you hang around amazing people who are constantly pushing themselves, eventually you'll absorb some of that energy and you'll push yourself to do things you would have never imagined, no matter how far out of your comfort-zone things may be.

In addition to publishing Nubby Twiglet, Shauna recently launched her own design studio, Branch, and she's one of the Headmistresses at the blogging workshop, The Blogcademy.  I'm telling you, the girl does not sleep.  I've texted her at midnight and she's awake and working, and I've texted her at 4am, and she's awake and working.

One thing I love about Shauna is that she's so encouraging of others.  Esthetically, her blog is perfection but she'll be the first to tell you that you shouldn't let your desire to be perfect stand in the way of starting where you are and then working to improve.  This thought is also one of the core messages from The Blogcademy - perfectionism is a form of procrastination.  It is because of Shauna and the Blogcademy, that I decided to start this blog and the #365 Day People Picture Project.  Shauna is the type of person who will tell you something like - so what if you're not a photographer and you want to challenge yourself to take a picture of a person every day for a year…just take the first step and strive to improve as you go!

From day one, it was important that Shauna be one of the subjects in this project because not only is she a friend, but she's also the main source of inspiration for missellanea.com.   I knew the day would come when it was time to take her picture and I've been so nervous!  I've explained before that I get really nervous when taking pictures of friends, family and acquaintances - sometimes even more so than when taking the picture of a complete stranger.  I know, it doesn't make sense to me either.  However, in Shauna's case, it is completely understandable why I was so nervous.  When you check out Shauna's blog,  you'll see that she's been photographed by some of the most talented photographers in the world and she's a graphic designer with a great eye and high standards. She denies it, but she's also a pretty talented photographer herself!

I realized that I was worrying for nothing.  Shauna understands that I'm just a beginner and it turned out that I was more relaxed taking her picture than I have been with anyone else!  She actually coached me and the result was something we were both pleased with.

The one thing that made it easy, is that Shauna is such a great subject/model.   I've learned from this project that it is still possible (and very easy) to take a bad picture of a beautiful person.  I didn't want to blow it and I really wanted a picture she would like.   Shauna is fair complexioned and she explained to me that we were working with challenges because of her make-up look that evening.  She did her best to coach me on how to compensate and I learned a lot from her in just that short time.

One improvement I've noticed in myself is that I'm starting to see things differently and I'm beginning to think like a photographer. However, just because I see a beautiful image before me, I'm still learning how to capture it and present the image as beautifully as it appeared in real life or in the viewfinder.  This picture is the perfect example that I still have a long way to go.  Shauna and I were sitting next to mirrored glass and as she was talking, I could see both her and her reflection in the mirror. The image was so striking,  I interrupted her mid-sentence and grabbed my camera.  I love this picture, but it's nowhere near as beautiful as I was seeing it in real life.

Shauna has made some great things happen in her life, but when I asked her about the happiest, she summed it up by saying, "realizing that it was possible to work for myself."

Shauna continues to inspire and help me, although I try my very best not to ask her for help.  She's among the most popular bloggers out there and I just don't want to take advantage of her and her many years of experience. I need to learn things on my own, often the hard way. However, I am going to take her up on her offer to let me practice and take pictures of her, so don't be surprised if you see more of the little Nubby Twiglet.

Day 128 Bonus - Andrew

While Shauna and I were taking pictures on the patio of the Doug Fir Lounge, we were approached by this guy.  This is Andrew, of the band 1491.  He wanted to know if we were doing an interview for a magazine or something, so we told him about the project and made him a subject. He was a funny part of the evening so I wanted to include him a bonus person.  Andrew not only let me take his picture but we also worked on the "squinch."

Day 129 - Two Stranded Travelers

I met these two at the Cascade Station shopping center, by the airport.  After approaching them and explaining the project, I started to get a read on them that they were going to decline me.  It turned out, they had just had a really long and tiring day. They were both really nice, but they were tired and hungry. Their flight had been delayed and then cancelled, so they had been at the airport all day before learning they would have to catch a flight the following day. Although their day was probably stressful, they were both optimistic about their trip and happy they would be traveling the next day.

I attempted to introduce a new question but it's not as smooth as the "happy" question. I asked them about an event has been a turning point in their lives.  The traveler on the left responded that he's going back to school for forestry.

Day 130 - Rebecca and Boo

Wednesday was a tough day.  I had to run to the Lloyd Center Mall to do some shopping and figured it would also be a rather easy place to find a subject.  I was definitely mistaken. I was declined so many times, at one point, I thought I was going to cry.  (Yes, it was that bad.  My feelings were crushed.)   Feeling discouraged and almost-defeated, I was questioning if that was going to be the day that the project came to an abrupt end.

I decided that I shouldn't ask another person at the mall and that I just needed to look for someone on my drive home.

After leaving the mall, I spotted a Christmas tree lot across the street from a convenience store and I knew I would definitely be able to find someone at one of those two places.  When I parked my car,  I looked over and saw a beautiful dog, attentively waiting for his owner in the store.

When Rebecca came out of the store, I asked her if the dog was her baby and she said yes. I then asked if I could take her picture and she agreed.

I started to ramble about how I'm not good with taking pictures of people with their dogs but then I decided to just shut up and take a picture.  It's a good thing, too, I would have been wasting my breath.  Boo was such a good little subject, I didn't struggle at all this time!  I just asked Rebecca to crouch down with Boo and we immediately got a nice shot.   It felt like Boo totally understood that we were trying to take a picture!

Rebecca explained that they just had family portraits taken with Boo and their other two dogs, so Boo really did know the drill.  I didn't tell her that I had just done my first-ever family + dog photoshoot last weekend.  I just told her that Boo was probably a dream subject for their photographer.

When I asked Rebecca about the happiest thing in her life, she replied, "I'm going back to school to get my masters degree."

We visited for a few more minutes, I thanked Boo with a biscuit and then they were on their way.

After my interaction with Rebecca and Boo, I was actually kind of glad I was declined so many times at the mall. Had I not been declined, I wouldn't have had the opportunity to meet the two of them.

Day 131 - Kevin at Plaid Pantry

I was happy to see a new face when I stopped at the convenience store on my way home.  I think we now have every person who works the swing shift from this particular store.

It was a rare moment because I was the only customer in the store, so I took advantage of the opportunity and asked Kevin if I could take his picture for the project.

The happiest thing happening in Kevin's life right now, is that his band, Between Cities and Skies, is nearly finished with an entire album.   His enthusiasm is contagious and I left there feeling excited for his band and happy to have met him.  You can check them out here!

Day 132 - Donny, My Brother

This is my Brother, Don.

I don't see my family as often as I should, but they're always in my heart and my thoughts.

My Mom called last week to tell me that Donny would be in Portland for a Tribal meeting and she wanted to make sure that I set aside time to see him and attend the meeting.  She was pretty insistent that I also take his picture for the project.   I laughed and told her, "I'm already all over it, Mom."

We met friday and only had about an hour before the meeting, during which time my brother updated me on the issues affecting our Tribe and towns where we're from.  I'm proud of the work Donny is doing for our people and for the environment. I just wish our Dad were still alive to see it.

We had a few laughs when we were taking pictures.  Donny humored me and tried the "squinch" but we ended up laughing and our attempts at the squinch either looked goofy or angry.  The "squinch" isn't easy, and that's usually what happens with most people.  It was a little emotional taking my brother's picture because he's really starting to look like our Dad.  I was disappointed in myself because I wanted to get the best picture ever taken of my brother.  I know I could have done better - so I'll just have to make it a point to go home to visit more often and try again.

My brother is a pretty talented guitar player but I never realized just how good he was until I was in high school.  I thought that everybody who played a guitar, played as well as my brother.  I didn't realize that not every guitar player takes their guitar with them every place they go and practices for hours upon hours and then practices some more and does so nearly every day.  It wasn't until I was approached by one of my high school crushes that I realized just amazing Donny was.  The "crush" asked me if I was related to Don and when I said that he was my brother, crush-guy told me that he was taking guitar lessons from him.  Crush-guy went on for a good 10 minutes telling me just how good Donny was and how much he admired him. He talked about Donny as though he were a rock star!  I was blown away! I should have been blown away by the fact that the hot guy even knew my name, but what struck me most was that I had no idea Donny was so talented. I always thought it was something my brother just did - playing a guitar was just as much a part of him, as were his own two hands. I heard my brother play all the time, so I didn't realize he was exceptional.

I was so glad I attended the meeting Friday.  I didn't need someone to point out to me how special my brother is.  This time, I was able to see clearly with my own two eyes.

I admire Donny and I'm inspired by his life.  We were so busy catching up that I forgot to ask him about the happiest thing in his life.  I'm just going to share what I think his answer would have been - I think he would have said that he loves his wife and his family.

Day 133 - Ray

I've been looking at the same fallen-tree in the lake for a few years and I've always known there was a good photograph in there somewhere.  I'm just not skilled enough to get it. I've tried so many times but I've never managed to capture it.

The fog was pretty thick this morning and as I was nearing my second favorite trail, I looked over to the familiar fallen-tree and thought that today might be the day I finally get the picture.  Having discovered earlier in the week my new appreciation for shooting in the fog, I realized conditions had never been better.  I had to try again, even though I've never been able to capture the picture as beautifully as it appeared in my mind.

As soon as I started shooting, several ducks came swimming toward me.  Although I love ducks and normally welcome the photo-op, I was annoyed that they were putting ripples in the otherwise glass-like lake.  They were going to "foul" up my picture!  I did manage to snap a few photos before they got too close.  The ducks kept swimming toward me and it was obvious they thought that I was going to feed them.  I was empty-handed though.

I gave up trying to get my picture and headed back across the street to the trailhead.  Just then, I noticed a man had pulled up to the lake. He got out of his truck, went down to the bank and he proceeded to feed the ducks.  Aaahaa!  He was the person who the ducks were expecting to see!

I approached him to ask if I could take his picture and he agreed.  He told me the story about how two little orphaned baby ducklings somehow ended up in his back yard when he lived in California.  He fed them and took care of them until his wife told him that they needed to be freed.  He took them to a park with a pond and released them back into the "wild."  He was worried that they wouldn't be able to fend for themselves because they had grown up in his back yard, so he would go to the park and feed them every day.  Now that he lives here, he's adopted these ducks to care for.

When I asked Ray the happiest thing happening in his life, he responded, "I'm alive. I'm 82 years old and I'm alive."

If you have been a subject this week, or any week, thank you.  Not only do I appreciate you, but you're part of the happiest thing happening in my life right now.  (Donny, if you happen to read this, thank you and I love you.  Shauna, thank you. Thank you for everything.)

Thank you for following along so far.   My friend Shelly shared this video the other day and I wanted to share it with you.  This project is sort of like my own personal little "ball pit" and I hope this project and this video will help to inspire you to open up to a stranger, and perhaps, meet a new friend.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HfHV4-N2LxQ