365 More People Pictures - Week 47

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

Day 322 - Zach

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Zach. Safe and happy travels.

Day 323 - Mose

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

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

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

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

"Large scale empowerment."

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

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

"Find the extraordinary out of the ordinary."

"Get beyond survival, and self-actualize."

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

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

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

Day 324 - Kevin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 325 - Jake

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

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

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

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

Day 326 - Greg

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Greg.

Day 327 - Shilo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Shilo.  Mr. Cool.

Day 328 - Ashley

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Ashley.

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

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

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

365 More People Pictures - Week 46

Hello! These are the subjects from week 46.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 315 - Kim

This is Kim, my sister-in-law.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Kim.

Day 316 - Rich

This is Rich. We met at the park.

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

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

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

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

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

Day 317 - Josh

This is Josh.  We met at the bus stop.

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Josh.

Day 318 - James

This is James.  We met outside Hollywood Theatre.

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

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

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

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

Thank you, James.

Day 319 - Arielle

This is Arielle.

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

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

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

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

Day 320 - Joe

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 321 - Erek

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Erek.

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

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

Thank you for reading!

365 More People Pictures - Week 38

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

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

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

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

Day 259 - Adrian

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks, Adrian.

Day 260 - Joe

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 261 - Chrissy Boo Bad

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

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

Thank you, CBB!

Day 262 - Lilly

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Lilly.  Wishing you happiness!

Day 263 - Sanjay

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

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

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

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

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

Day 264 - Manny

This is Manny.

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

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

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

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

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

Day 265 - Thom

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

365 More People Pictures - Week 32

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

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

Day 217 - Richard

This is Richard.

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

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

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

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

Thank  you, Richard.

Day 218 - Jack

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

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

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

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

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

Wishing you lots of luck, Jack!

Thank you!

Day 219 - Luke

This is Luke. We met at the bus stop.

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

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

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

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

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

Day 220 - Dan

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Dan.

Day 221 - John

This is John.  We met on the street.

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

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

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

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

Thank you, John.

And then this happened:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 222 - Michael

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Michael!

Day 223 - Josh

This is Josh.  We met at the park.

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

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

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

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

Thank you,  Josh.

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

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

Thank you for following along!

365 More People Pictures - Week 29

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

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

Day 196 - Jake

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Jake! Thank you for your serving.

Day 197 - Matt

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Matt!

Day 198 - Mary Grace

This is Mary Grace.  We met on the street.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Mary Grace.

Day 199 - Maeve

This is Maeve. We met at the bus stop.

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

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

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

Thank you, Maeve.

Day 200 - Lou

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Lou.

Day 201 - 1985

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 202 - Charlotte

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Charlotte!

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

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

Thank you!

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

365 More People Pictures - Week 23

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

Day 154 - Jordan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 155 - Melanie

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

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

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

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

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

Day 156 - Mari

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 157 - Shane

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

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

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

Thank you, Shane!

Day 158 - Kimmie

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 159 - Ryan

This is Ryan.  We met walking down the street.

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Ryan!

Day 160 - Zachary

This is Zachary.

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Zachary!

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

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

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

365 More People Pictures - Week 22

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

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

Day 147 - Greg

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

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

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

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

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

Good luck, Greg!

Day 148 - J.D.

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

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

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

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

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

Welcome, J.D.!

Day 149 - Elsa

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

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

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

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

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

Wishing you all those good things, Elsa.

Day 150 - Joaquin

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Joaquin! Wishing you continued success.

Day 151 - Ben

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

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

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

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

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

Wishing you lots of luck, Ben!

Day 152 - Jord Vader

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

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

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

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

Keep being you, Jord.

Day 153 - Julian

This is Julian. We also met downtown Portland.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Julian!  Wising you the best!

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

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

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

See you very soon with the subjects from this week!

365 More People Pictures - Week 11

Week 11 is a wrap! You'll notice I'm experiencing some growing pains. I'm sorry.  I think it's all a part of the process.   It's been a rainy and dark week in Portland, and I've had serious struggles.  The ironic things is, were I not trying to improve, these pictures would be better.  What? I know that doesn't make sense.

Today's DSLR cameras are so amazing and high tech, that a person who knows little about photography, can still take a perfectly decent picture on auto and using the kit lens that comes with the camera. Having purchased a high-performing prime lens, and my attempt to break out of auto, is actually resulting in lots of bad mistakes.  It's been discouraging, but I keep reminding myself that each bad picture I take today, is a better picture I'll take tomorrow.  It's not very comforting, but I refuse to give up.  We have to remember that progress is not always forward-moving.  Sometimes we get stuck.  Sometimes, we even take several steps back.  We just have to keep plugging away and eventually we'll break through the walls we find ourselves up against.

Day 70 - David

This is David.  We met at Esther Short Park, in Vancouver.

I asked David the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he responded, "living here in Portland."  "Well, here in the Portland/Vancouver area," David corrected. David recently moved here from Massachusetts.  I love it when I happen to meet someone new to the area. We've had several newbies in the project and it's been awesome having the chance to unofficially/officially welcome a person to the Northwest.

I asked David if he's recently performed an act of kindness and David explained he tries to do something everyday.  He's always helping someone out in one way or another, and he simply tries to be kind.

When I asked David if he has a personal mission statement, he answered that he lives by a set of personal core values - "living a life of honesty and mutual respect."

"My 16 year marriage," David answered, when I asked something about himself which he would consider to be a success.

Welcome, David & family!

Day 71 - Sarah

This is Sarah.  I spotted her waiting at the bus stop. We had to hurry before the bus arrived.

The happiest thing happening in Sarah's life right now is the Choir that she directs.

I asked Sarah if she's recently performed an act of kindness, or if she's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness.  Sarah said that her boyfriend had given her a ride to work that morning, much earlier than he's normally up and about.

I asked Sarah if she had a personal mission statement and I could practically see Sarah's mind racing in an attempt to nail down an answer.  The question is a big one. For some reason, although it seems equally as intimidating to me, I've found that asking instead about a person's life's purpose somehow helps people to focus on an answer.  Sarah easily answered that her life's purpose is "to try to help other people through music."

"That I've gotten better about asking for help," Sarah answered, when I asked something about herself which she would consider to be a success.  This is such a huge life lesson to learn and I'm happy for Sarah that she's learned how to do so at a young age.  I still need help with asking for help.

Day 72 - Matt

This is Matt.   Matt had a bike and because the bus already had too many bikes on board, Matt was left behind to wait for the next one to come along, and it gave me the perfect opportunity to ask Matt if I could take his picture.

"I just got a new apartment," Matt answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

I asked Matt if he's either performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness and he quickly answered, "my girlfriend does awesome stuff every day."  Awwww.

I asked Matt if he has a personal mission statement or if he could define his life's purpose.  Matt responded with:

1 - "Good enough is never good enough."

2 - "We never really die until the last time someone says our name, so I'd like my name to stick around."

"I'm a good cook," Matt answered, when I asked something about himself which he would consider to be a success.

Day 73 - Kelly

This is Kelly.  We're co-workers.  It was pouring outside when it came time to go out looking for a subject. I was concerned about protecting my camera, and then if I managed to find someone, I didn't want to inconvenience them by stopping them in the rain to ask for a picture and "interview."  Kelly told me she's not photogenic, but understanding the rainy predicament I was in, she agreed to let me take her picture.

"Being at peace with all of my family and friends, being in a good place, and being happy all-together," Kelly answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in her life right now.

When I asked Kelly if she's recently performed an act of kindness, she couldn't think of anything specific but answered, "I always try to be nice to people, and thoughtful."  I immediately thought of all of the kindness Kelly gives to us each day at work.  Kelly is a designer and working in the art department, their days are scheduled in advance.  They know exactly what their objectives are for the day and thoughtful consideration goes into planning and scheduling their days so they have just enough time to complete their jobs for the day.  A little bit of pressure can help some people to focus, but too much pressure can be a complete creativity-killer.  Any new and unscheduled task, adds pressure to their day.    Although the art department is scheduled, Kelly knows that new things pop up in sales all day long and we often need the guidance of the art department in order for us to do the next step in our jobs.  Kelly always helps.  She always finds, or makes, the time to help us and she does so with kindness.

I asked Kelly if she has a personal mission statement or a life's purpose.  She gave the question consideration before answering, "to keep growing and keep learning new things, and to keep expanding myself in every way."

"I'm very introspective and good at analyzing situations," Kelly replied, when I asked her something about herself which she would consider to be a success.  I just recently became aware of Kelly's amazing ability to assess a situation or person.  It's awesome working with someone who has a complete understanding of a situation.  In this instance, Kelly even offered a perspective I hadn't considered, which helped me to have a greater understanding and appreciation for the situation as well.

Thank you, Kelly!

Day 74 - The Great Brendini

This is The Great Brendini, a nickname she had just been given by a co-worker that same day.  We met outside of Velo Cult.

I asked Brendini the happiest thing happening in her life right now and she answered, "predictability."

Brendini's recent act of kindness is that earlier in the grocery store, she had acknowledged a woman who society probably normally overlooks, ignores, or dismisses.  Brendini gave the woman direct eye contact, accepting body language and a smile.  A little bit of kindness goes a long way at the grocery store.  The grocery store is a great place to practice kindness. I read an article which presented a challenge to smile, genuinely smile, at 3 people in the grocery store, every time you go shopping.   If you try the 3-smile challenge,  be sure to report back the results!

When I asked Brendini if she had a personal mission statement or life's purpose, I could tell she was retreating to her mind to retrieve an answer.  She said, "I'm a philosopher in my mind," but she was having a difficult time coming up with an answer.  I completely understood Brendini and I cracked up at her "philosopher in my mind" comment.  Brendini and I have this in common.  I have beautiful thoughts and ideas, but in my mind is where they stay locked away, seeming to serve the purpose of entertaining only my own self.  It's like I'm not able to give them life.  When I attempt to birth the thoughts,  things never come out of my mouth, or onto the keyboard, the way they've been stored in my mind.

Brendini worked through the temporary block and answered, "willing your own purpose through authenticity, and recognizing the inspiration in everything around you - is my purpose every day."

"My independence," Brendini answered, when I asked her something about herself which she would consider to be a success.  I loved talking with Brendini.  She told me all about her neighborhood adventures, which she often goes on alone.  Having become a bit of a lone wolf myself, I loved hearing about another woman who enjoys venturing out alone and found familiar and comfortable irony in that predictability is currently giving happiness to Brendini's life, but it's balanced by an independent and adventurous spirit. I guess you could say we're predictably adventurous.  Or adventurously predictable?

After we finished with the picture and interview, Brendini told me she was going to check out the tattoo shop next door, and then head back into Velo Cult for a lecture on neuroscience.  (Who even knew that Velo Cult, a combination bike repair shop, pub, and event space, hosted lectures on neuroscience??? Neuroscience one day, then live music the next!!)  Brendini is at expert level 10 when it comes to independence.  I could learn a thing or two from her.

Day 75 - Ernest

This is Ernest.  Ernest is the uncle of a woman I've known for about 25 years.  She was married to one of our high school track coaches, and coincidentally, we ended up living in the same town, 250+ miles away from where we met.  We bump into each other at the grocery store every so often, and we just happened to run into each other this night.

I loved visiting with Ernest and his niece,  and I really wanted to come away with a particularly special picture of Ernest.  When I arrived home to prepare the photo for Instagram, I was heartbroken by the mistakes I had made.  I always want to do a good job, but given that Ernest is family to someone I've known for years, I wanted to be able to surprise her with a beautiful portrait the next time we bumped into each other at the grocery store.   I failed.  Ernest was such a nice man though.  I have a feeling he's the kind of man who would tell me to stop beating myself up because I'm still just learning.

"Retirement," Ernest immediately answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

I asked Ernest if he's recently either performed an act of kindness, or been on the receiving end of an act of kindness.  Ernest said he's been on the receiving end, in that someone recently gave him a job painting.  Although Ernest is happily retired, he still likes to keep busy.

Ernest's life's purpose - "to be comfortable in life."

I asked Ernest something about himself which he considers to be a success.  Ernest answered, "my old-school cars."  Ernest has a few classic cars which he's collected, restored, and now maintains.  It was obvious looking at Ernest, that he's a fit and active man.  I commented to Ernest that he looked like he was ready to to go for a run.  "Thank you," he said.  I then learned that Ernest also runs almost every day!!  He didn't mention his running as something he would consider to be a success, but I sure do!

Ernest, thank you for letting me take your picture and I hope to see you again some day!

Day 75 - A.J.

This is A.J..  He was parked next to me at Walgreens.  Seeing that A.J. had just picked up an order of photo prints, I figured chances were in my favor that he would say yes if I asked to take his picture.

A.J. is tall.  I mean, really tall.  I had to stand up on the curb but he was still too tall for me.  I had to ask him to squat down.  I feel bad about asking tall people to do this.  I know it feels awkward, but it results in a much better picture than shooting up a tall person's nose.   A.J. laughed and explained he was fine with the request because he's had to squat in just about every picture anyone has ever taken of him.

"Going to Disneyland on Tuesday," A.J. answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

A.J.'s recent act of kindness is that he bought someone's drinks at a restaurant the other night.

"Rise above," A.J. answered, when I asked if he has a personal mission statement or a life's purpose.

When I asked A.J. something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered, "my family."

Here's the summary of the mission statements and life's purpose of the subjects from week 11:

• Living a life of honesty and mutual respect.
• To try to help other people through music.
• Good enough is never good enough.
• We never really die until the last time someone says our name, so I'd like my name to stick around.
• To keep growing and keep learning new things, and to keep expanding myself in every way.
• Willing your own purpose through authenticity.
• Recognizing the inspiration in everything around you.
• Rise above.

My sincere appreciation to all of the subjects in this project, and to you for following along.   Thank you.

Wishing you a great week!

365 More People Pictures - Week 8

Hello! Here's the review of week 8.  Sorry for the delay.  I got off-schedule last week in order to cheer on my friends running/walking the Portland Marathon.  I'll work on a (sitting out the) Race Report and share the fun with you soon.

Day  49 - Samson and Delilah and their Humans

This is Samson and Delilah and their human parents.  They were out for a stroll along the Columbia River when we met.

My heart melted when I saw these puppies walking toward me and wanting my attention.  Ok, I confess.  I totally leapt off the bench on which I had been sitting and all but begged their humans for permission to pet them.  After a little bit of puppy-lovin, I asked Samson and Delilah's humans if they would be in the project.

I asked the couple the happiest thing happening in their lives right now, and puppy-mom answered for them both, "having the puppies and just finishing vacation."

I asked puppy-dad if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness and he explained that the whole vacation they had just taken, had been paid for by someone else.

I asked Samson and Delilah's mom if she had a personal mission statement or life's purpose, and she answered, "I hope to share the love of Jesus Christ."

I asked Samson and Delilah's dad something about himself which he would consider to be a success and he answered, "raising two kids who were both outstanding Marines."  (They're both home safe and now resuming their lives.)

Day 50 - Jason

This is Jason. He happened to be walking right by my work as I was about to go out looking for a subject for the day.

"My friends and family," Jason answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

I asked Jason if he's recently performed an act of kindness. Jason explained that he was recently the Best Man in his friend's wedding, and with it, came a lot of work.  We joked about how much responsibility comes with the role of Best Man or Maid of Honor, nowadays.

I asked Jason if he had a personal mission statement. Jason is another person who tries to live by the golden rule, answering, "treat other people how you want to be treated...and things should work out."

When I asked Jason something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered, "I love my job. I love what I do."  Jason likes the path he chose in teaching, even if it meant less money, he's happy to be doing what he loves.

Day 51 - Toby

This is Toby.  We met at a bus stop.

"The new season of Scandal is starting," Toby answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.  Toby had given the question serious consideration before answering, so I figured this must be a really good show, but one I've never seen.  When it comes to TV-watching, I've been living under a rock.  I later saw that the Scandal premiere completely blew up twitter and it sounds like a must-see show.  Thanks for the tip,  Toby!

I asked Toby if he's performed an act of kindness and he said that he volunteers at a soup kitchen once per week.

"To live with intention and to make the world more positive," Toby answered, when I asked if he has a personal mission statement.  Toby so eloquently said the words I've been unable to articulate for myself.  I love Toby's mission statement and told him I'd like to adopt it for part of my own.

I asked Toby something about himself which he would consider to be a success and he answered, "successfully writing for a living."  Toby is a freelance writer, and if you've ever read The Portland Mercury blog, you've probably read some of Toby's work.

Day 52 - Jeff-Lee

This is Jeff-Lee.  We met at a bus stop.

I asked Jeff-Lee the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he answered, "Bikram Yoga, Jiu Jitsu, and college."

I asked Jeff-Lee if he had recently performed an act of kindness. He explained that he tries to do kind acts, of varying degrees, all the time, but what was coming to mind was that he recently helped a young woman who was unfamiliar with the bus, get to where she needed to go.  Then later that same day, he saw her again on campus!

"To be love.  To share.  Sharing is caring," Jeff-Lee answered, when I asked if he had a life's purpose.

The bus arrived before I could ask Jeff-Lee any more questions.

When I got home to prepare the pictures for Instagram, I was disappointed in what I had done. Jeff-Lee is quite handsome and has all of the features with which I've found I've had the most success when photographing.  (typically males with a beard, expressive eyes, and a strong facial feature, or angles.)  I had all of the elements which should have made for a great picture.  I should have done much better.

As the weather and sunlight changes, I've been facing new challenges to learn how to change the camera settings in order to get a decent picture. During the first project last year, I shot on auto (yes, auto!) and with a flash.  I wasn't really learning the technical aspects of changing camera settings. This year, I'm challenging myself to grow and improve and often times, that means getting worse before you get better.  I really wanted to get a beautiful image of Jeff-Lee, but I learned more from not getting it right, than I would have had it been perfect.

I was also struck with the realization that how I'm feeling definitely influences the look and feel of a picture.  Again, I experienced this a little last year, but now that I'm starting to make some baby-steps forward, it becomes even more apparent when a shot is blown.   This is both frustrating and amazing!  It means improvement is being made! It means there really is something inside of me that contributes to the look and feel of an image.  I get it! I get it!  It means it's not just the camera!  There is a part of me going into each and every picture.  If I'm carrying around stress and anxiety from my work-day, it's going to show.

I've always known a real photographer is responsible for the creation of their images. They are artists.   Having had several off-days the past few weeks, has made me realize that I've been putting myself into these pictures as well. It hasn't all been a fluke!  Both good days and bad days, how a photographer is feeling will show in their work.   (I'm not talking simply about the technical camera settings. I'm talking about the emotion.)  This was a great reminder to be fully present when I'm meeting a subject and taking their picture.  I just need to set aside work-stress and enjoy the brief moment I get to spend with each subject of the day.

Day 53  - Jeremy

This is Jeremy.  He was sitting outside on the patio at Whole Foods.

I asked Jeremy the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he answered, "meeting the girl I'm with right now."  Jeremy explained he wasn't doing anything too special before meeting her, but having her in his life is giving him inspiration to better himself.  "She keeps me grounded," Jeremy added.

I asked Jeremy if he's recently performed an act of kindness. Jeremy answered, "I try to do a good deed every day."  Although I didn't ask, I've learned from this project that whenever someone answers with a reference to doing a good deed daily, they've usually been Boy Scouts/Eagle Scouts.  Jeremy's recent act of kindness is that he gave some street kids a few dollars.  Jeremy explained that he went through a time in his life when he was traveling and living on the streets and since he's been there before, he wants to help when he can.

I asked Jeremy if he has a personal mission statement or a life's purpose.  Jeremy answered, "my mission in life is to honor the people who came before me, to do what's right in the world, and contribute to a better society."  Jeremy doesn't want to just sit back and maintain status quo. Jeremy wants to make a difference.

"I just got a degree in Liberal Arts," Jeremy answered, when I asked something about himself which he considers to be a success.  I loved listening to Jeremy's story about wanting to make his Mom proud.  I'm sure she is!

Day 54 - Paddy

This is Paddy.  We met at a bus stop.

The bus arrived right away, so we only had time for one question.

I asked Paddy the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he answered, "I just got tattoos on my feet!"  For a moment, I thought I could read the look on Paddy's face that he was  trying to calculate if he possibly had enough time to quickly remove his shoes to show off his new tattoos before frustrating the bus driver and other passengers.  And no...we didn't have enough time for that.

Day 55 - Clements

This is Clements. (What a great name!)   We met at a bus stop in NW Portland.  I look forward to the rare days when I'm in a different part of town, because I'm excited about the people I'll meet there.  Another goal I have for the project, is to venture out of my normal go-to neighborhoods and parks.

Again, the bus arrived after just one question.

I asked Clements the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he answered, "I paint and I'm just about to start a new project."

Here's the summary of the wisdom we received from the subjects of week 8.

• I hope to share the love of Jesus Christ.
• Treat other people how you want to be treated...and things should work out.
• To live with intention and to make the world more positive.
• To be love.  To share. Sharing is caring.
• My mission in life is to honor the people who came before me, to do what's right in the world, and contribute to a better society.

To each person who has been a subject in this project, thank you for sharing yourself with us.

Thank you!

365 More People Pictures - Week 7

Hello! Week 7 is a wrap!

Day 42 - Teri

This is Teri.  She was walking her dog at Esther Short Park when we met.  Teri quickly and happily agreed to let me take her picture and I should have realized then, it was because she's a photographer and she "gets it."

I learned that Teri has been a photographer since the age of 4!  She's a highly sought-after, fine art photographer from New York, and her specialty was nudes.  She recently moved to the Northwest to chase another dream of becoming a Park Ranger.  I enjoyed hearing about the the contrasts in Teri's life.  Teri moved from the east coast, big city, big art world, to pursue life on the laid-back left coast and to become a park ranger.  She said that being closer to nature has filled her with new inspiration and she now has an opportunity to concentrate on landscape/nature photography.

Teri and I made for such a funny pair.  You would think that we should have made for a great team, but I was busy being nervous about wanting to do justice to an accomplished artist, and Teri was busy being nervous about allowing herself to be in front of the camera instead of behind the viewfinder and in control of the process.  I found it so ironic that Teri has been up close and personal with nude subjects, but she's totally camera-shy when she's the one in front of the lens.  I can totally relate. Having my own picture taken is a miserable experience.   We finally both just had to let go and have fun with it!

I asked Teri the happiest thing happening in her life right now and she said that she just returned from a vacation on Maui.  The Maui trip was also the act of kindness Teri received, as it was a treat from a friend. As we were mid-interview, another woman approached us in the park and thanked Teri for the print she had just given her. The woman told Teri she had just hung it, and was remarking how much she loved it.  I interjected that not only had Teri been on the receiving end of an act of kindness, but it sounded like she had also just given an act of kindness as well.

"To live life to the fullest," Teri answered, when I asked if she had a personal mission statement.

I asked Teri something about herself which she considers to be a success and she answered, "being nominated for the Louis Comfort Tiffany Award."  Teri clarified that she didn't win, but still, having been nominated was still quite an honor.

Teri explained that her site isn't up-to-date, but you can check out her work here.

I feel fortunate to have met Teri and I enjoyed listening to her, and trying to learn from her.   She even extended an offer for me to consider her as a resource as I get deeper into the process, and perhaps someday host a pop-up show to thank all of the subjects in this project.  (Which is something I've been dreaming of, but I've just become overwhelmed at how to actually execute a showing or celebration party for subjects from the first 365 Day Project.)

Thank you, Teri.

Day 43 - Elliot

This is Elliot.  He was near the Hollywood Theatre, waiting for his friend to arrive.

"School is starting, I'm very happy about that," Elliot answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

I asked Elliot if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness and he said that his mom recently gave him a nice set of knives.  I agreed this was an excellent gift because a good set of knives could possibly last his entire lifetime.

"Power to the people," Elliot said, is his personal mission statement.

When I asked Elliot something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered, "aside from the beard?"  Haha! Such a great answer!  He then circled back to his return to school and that he feels successful having finally figured out that he should be an English major.

Day 44 - Drew

This is Drew.  I spotted him on the sidewalk.

"I got a new job," Drew said, is the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Drew was just recently on the receiving end of an act of kindness, in that his friend gave him free tickets to a show.

Drew wasn't sure about a personal mission statement or a life's purpose, saying simply, "I'm just trying to get by."

I asked Drew something about himself which he considers to be a success and Drew answered, "graduating college."

Drew has a job in his field of study, so right now - it is a success when someone has a job and it's actually in the field for which they attended school!

Day 45 - Julie

This is Julie.  She was waiting at the bus stop when we met.

I worked late on Wednesday and it was dark by time I left.  I was concerned because I'm now out of practice when it comes to  shooting in the dark.  Especially considering, I'm trying to learn how to shoot without a flash in low light and when it's dark.  It's NOT easy.  Until Julie, I don't think I've ever managed to take a nighttime/dark photo  that wasn't complete blurry or just horrible. Julie was great luck and she was patient with me as I tried both a flash and non-flash picture.

The happiest thing happening in Julie's life right now, is that she's working her dream job.  Julie is the owner of the Julie Lawrence Yoga Center.  Julie also feels this is something about herself which she would consider to be a success.  Julie followed her dreams of becoming a professional dancer, which lead her to her now dream-come-true situation of running a yoga studio.

I asked Julie if she had a personal mission statement and she explained she actually has a 5-part mission statement:

1 - "Experience and share love."

2 - "Seek out learning opportunities."

3 - "Be physically active."

4 - "Remember to laugh and play."

5 - ...

You know that feeling when your mind goes blank on you?  Well, that happened when Julie attempted to give the 5th part of her 5-part mission statement.  The bus was approaching us, we needed to hurry, so we just left it at 4.  Four excellent little nuggets for us to remember!

Day 46 - Becki

This is my very dear, and very special friend, Rebecca.   Yes, she may look familiar to you from last year's project. It was almost exactly a year ago when Becki was a subject in the first 365 Day People Picture Project.  It's been fun to include my friends in the project and I try to take their picture when we get together for their birthday celebration.

"My family, my husband and my kids," Rebecca answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in her life right now.

I asked Becki if she's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness and she replied, "Yes! Tonight...birthday gifts and an amazing dinner!"  We got together for dinner and laughs with the family and our other friends, Debbie and Lou.  When it came time to take Becki's picture, it was pitch dark outside and I couldn't even tell what these two were up to.  The sneaky little photobomber is our friend, Debbie.

I asked Becki if she had a personal mission statement and she answered, "life's too short.  Don't put off till tomorrow what you can do today because you might not be here."  Becki would know.  She barely survived what could have been a fatal car accident, shortly after we finished high school.  The crash, and her rehabilitation, were both life-changing and life-affirming for Becki.  Since then, she's become the most generous person I know when it comes to sharing love, laughter and happiness.

I asked Becki something about herself which she would consider to be a success. "My family, friends, and my volunteering," Rebecca answered.  Rebecca is always donating her time and efforts to one cause or another.  I'm completely awestruck with her life and how she makes time for work, family, volunteer work, and fun!  She'll be the first to tell you - she makes time for fun and she makes sure that we all make time for fun too!

Becki, I'm so glad you were born.  Happy Birthday, dear friend.

Day 47 - Sky

This is Sky.   She was waiting at the bus stop when we met.

The bus would soon be approaching, so again, we had to keep things at a fast pace.  I quickly shot three pictures of Sky and then asked the interview questions.

"I'm really excited to go back to school," Sky answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in her life right now.

I asked if Sky has been on the receiving end of an act of kindness and she immediately replied, "yes, many times!"  But she explained she couldn't think of a specific example at that moment.  This is so common.  Several people seem to have a general sense and feeling that the world is kind to them, but usually the pressure of me asking for an example, makes it difficult for them to think of something specific.

"I'm all about my family, and I like to make my family happy," Sky answered, when I asked if she had a personal mission statement or a life's purpose.

When I asked Sky something about herself which she would consider to be a success, she also circled back to starting school again.  Sky is only 20, but she already has 4 years of college under her belt!

I'm glad I bumped into Sky...brains, beauty, and a such lovely person to visit with.

Day 48 - Brian

This is Brian.  We met at Esther Short Park.  When I approached Brian to take his picture, he agreed quickly, gave me a big smile, but then his expression changed and I couldn't get a read on what was happening.  Not wanting to keep him from anything, I asked if he was in a hurry.  He said that he had time.  The area is somewhat tourist-y, so I asked if he lives around here.  Brian then said that he's homeless.

Damit.  Damn.  Damit.

I've intentionally avoided asking people who are homeless if I could take their picture. The reasons are many, but basically, it is out of respect.  It is out of respect for their situation, and in wanting to preserve dignity.

I had already asked Brian if I could take his picture. It would have been more disrespectful and painful to abort, than it would be to move forward with the picture and interview.  And, from our very short interaction up until that point, I already got a good vibe from Brian.  I was already in.  I already cared.

Brian and I shared an intense and brutally-honest conversation.  The kind of conversation that is so intense, it's probably not even one that he's been able to have with his friends or family.

I hate addiction.  I hate that some people are born with different wiring.   I hate that some people are fortunate to have been born with a dimmer, but other people are born with an on-off switch.  For those people born with an on-off switch, there is no in-between.  There is no, let's turn-up-the-lights-just-a-little-and-have-a-cocktail-with-dinner setting.  There is only on, or off.  Once the switch is flipped and the person is exposed to a mind-altering substance, it's on all the way.  The hungry addiction receptors are fired up and begging to be stimulated and fed.  Once the switch is flipped, it's so easy for a person to abandon and lose everything they are, everything they were, and everything they hoped to become.  It's so easy to lose your footing when you're a person  born with a switch instead of  a dimmer.  Once you lose your balance on the tightrope of addiction, the fall may not be swift, but it is certain.  Once you've fallen off the tightrope completely, you don't even know, or care, that you're falling...as long as it feels good on the way down.

Not every person born with a switch instead of a dimmer,  falls to the point of homelessness.  Some are fighting the battle from the comfort of a warm and cozy home, but the battle is still life-destroying nonetheless.

Brian had a good life.  He was married.  He had a great job. He's soft-spoken and personable, and his intelligence is apparent in his articulate speech. Brian has just finished his time squaring-up with the law, and has intentions to go back to school.  He had intentions, that is, until he sabotaged himself.  Again.  Brian is feeling frustrated and disappointed with himself and he can't understand why he keeps repeating the cycle no matter how much he's ready to make the change for good.  He's so close.  I know he can flip the switch to off.

My canned interview questions seemed so ridiculous, given the circumstances.  I apologized to Brian.  I told him I was still going to ask the questions I normally ask, even though his situation is a difficult one. I explained the questions have been stealthily designed as an exercise in gratitude. (and inspiration and motivation as well.)    I hoped he would feel better and more optimistic when we were finished, but I knew there was a huge risk that the questions could result in him feeling more helpless and hopeless.

I asked Brian, if he could think of anything happy, in spite of his situation.  He shook his head, "no, nothing," Brian answered, as he appeared to hold back tears.  "Nothing?" I asked.  "No, this is pretty much the highlight of my day," Brian said.  "Well, we have that in common, because this is the highlight of my day too," I shared.  I pleaded with Brian to consider that every day he wakes up, every day that he's alive, is a reason to be happy.  "If you're alive, there's hope," I added.   Brian agreed, reluctantly at first, and then said "yes, I'm alive."

I asked Brian if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness and he said that a woman at a church gave him a really nice sweater/jacket,  and then he turned to show me the jacket on his backpack.

I asked Brian if he had a life's purpose, or a personal mission statement.  Brian answered,  "to not to fall back into drug addiction."  I wanted Brian to walk away from our interaction feeling filled with hope and having a plan.  I wanted to hear the words from Brian about his next step in life.   No matter who we are, or what our circumstances, the more we share our plans or intentions, the closer we become to making them a reality.  I wanted to hear Brian tell me that he was going to get back on the waiting list for treatment.  I wanted to hear Brian tell me his plans to get financial aid to return back to school.  I wanted to hear Brian say the words that he will find a living situation and get off the street.  It was important to hear Brain say all of those words and lay out all of those plans, because I wanted Brian to hear the words, and believe them.  I want Brian to be one step closer to making his plans become reality.  He's got them. He's got the plans and a foundation is built.  I pray Brian can be freed from a life of addiction and reclaim his life, or a new and better one.

I apologized to Brian for "mom-ing" him, and told him I believed he could do it.  I believed he could get himself together. Brian needed to hear that another person believes in him, so that maybe he'll believe in himself.  Brian knows where to get help, and how to get help.  I dream for the day in our country that when a person is ready to get clean, the resources are there for them to do so.  The free program here in the area often has a waiting list to get into the residential treatment facility, and by time a person gets to the top of the list, they may be back out using again.

After we finished, I asked Brian if he had food for the day.  He answered, "not really."  I told him I had some in my car, if he wanted to walk with me.  We talked while we walked.  Brian openly and honestly shared the Cliff's notes version of his life story with me, and now it was his turn to ask questions about mine.  He mainly wanted to know about the project, and why I was doing it.  "What's the objective?" Brian asked.   I, also giving the Cliff's notes version, explained that I just wanted to see if I could do something every day for a year.  I pointed out the similarity between doing a 365 day photography challenge, and being clean and sober.  I took one picture a day, and before I knew it, I had strung together an entire year's worth of pictures without any gaps.  Brian understood and confirmed..."just like being clean and sober...one day at a time, and before you know it, you've got a year."

We reached my car and I unlocked the trunk and gave him all I had.  He asked, "do you always drive around with sack lunches in your car?"  "Yes, I try to," I answered.  "They're for the people I may meet...who may be hungry."   We talked just a few moments longer, we both thanked one another, and I told him once more that I believed in him...hoping he'd feel it enough to believe in himself.

If you're the praying kind, could you say a prayer for Brian and anyone you know who struggles with addiction.  May they be free.

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

• To live life to the fullest.
• Power to the people.
• I'm just trying to get by.
• Experience and share love.
• Seek out learning opportunities.
• Be physically active.
• Remember to laugh and play.
• Life's too short.  Don't put off till tomorrow what you can do today because you might not be here.
• I'm all about my family, and I like to make my family happy.
• To not fall back into drug addiction.  

Thank you to each and every subject from this week, and in the entire project.

Thank you again for following along.

Have a great week!

365 More People Pictures - Week 6

Hello!  We're finished with week 6 of The 365 More People Pictures Project.  If this is your first visit, you may have gathered from the title that this is my second year-long challenge to myself to take a picture of a person, every day, for an entire year. If you'd like to follow along daily, my Instagram username is  @missellanea.

Day 35 - Trent

This is Trent.  He helps out at Ambiance Tan & Espresso, and you've already met some of his family in last year's project.  And no, I didn't have a mexican mocha this day so I was unable to determine Trent's place in the "who makes the best mexican mocha" rankings.  This is actually a good thing because I think I accidentally ignited a pretty fierce competition.

"Having a baby soon," Trent responded, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

I asked Trent if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness and he said that someone helped him to get a really good job.

"To be a good Dad," Trent answered, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement.

I asked Trent something about himself which he considers to be a success and he answered, "I have a career."

Trent's picture was taken late afternoon, during the harsh mid-day sun.  For some reason, I've struggled with the lighting every time I've taken somebody's picture there, so this time we went outside and I found the least sunny area I could find. Or, so I thought.  I hadn't sat down to prepare Trent's photo for instagramming until right before my bedtime and as soon as I saw the pictures, I was in a panic.  I screwed up.  Not only had I ruined the pictures, but I was in my pajamas and couldn't even imagine getting dressed to go back out into the world to find a new subject.  Plus, I really wanted to include Trent to complete the Ambiance Tan & Espresso family and team.

I did all I could do to rescue the photo in Lightroom, which isn't much because I only know the bare basics.  Trent is a handsome fella and a forgiving eye could look past my mistakes and see a nice young man, even in spite of my technical flaws.  The pros say to never publish anything but your best work.   Well, the upside of not being a pro, or being so inexperienced that I still can't even call myself a "photographer," is that I've shared it all with you.  In sharing both my mistakes and my good days, you can see that it's a constant process of learning.

You can make thousands of mistakes and then every once in a while, among the thousands of bad or just-ok pictures, you will discover that you've created something beautiful.

Photography, just like life, is a constant state of ebbs and flows.  I was making improvement for a while, until I wasn't.  I finally broke out of the slump and found my flow, and then I found myself swimming against the current once again.  Just when you think you're getting the hang of things, something happens to remind you that you still have a lot to learn and that you shouldn't ever get too comfortable.

In trying to educate myself on photography, I view thousands of beautiful images a week, created by both unknown and well-known photographers. It's enough to make a girl feel completely embarrassed for her sometimes-laughable attempts at photography.  Then I remind myself that they're not showing anything less than their best work.  I share every step and misstep in the process of teaching myself how to take a picture...how to create an image.  Everyone struggles.  Everyone makes mistakes.  Everyone is a beginner at some point.  Learn from those who are more skilled than you.  Don't let the work of others discourage you. Let the work of others inspire you to grow and improve.

Day 36 - Matt

This is Matt.  He was walking down the sidewalk when we met.

"My work in the Theatre," Matt answered, is the happiest thing happening in his life right now.  Matt is a writer and director.

I asked Matt if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness and he explained that he recently suffered a loss.  Matt has been overwhelmed by the support from friends and people who've reached out to check in on him.  The concern and support from Matt's friends reminded me that sometimes we don't know what to do when our friends are suffering and because we don't know the "right" thing to do, we do nothing.  In difficult times, simply letting a person know that we're thinking about them and that we care about them, is the right thing to do.

When I asked Matt if he had a personal mission statement, he quoted Shunryu Suzuki - "In the beginner's mind there are many possibilities, but in the expert's mind there are few."  Matt and I talked about approaching life as a beginner in order to maintain excitement and motivation.  Matt told me about his work with a group of seniors in which he was teaching them to write plays.  Some of his students were 80 - 90 years old and hearing about their complete joy and enthusiasm of learning a new skill, was actually giving me goosebumps.  It also reminded me how when I first got my camera, every single picture was sheer joy and magic.  Now, I'm constantly frustrated with myself.  When we fall out of the "enthusiastic beginner" phase and slip into the "disillusioned learner" phase, it's time to take a step back, and allow ourselves the opportunity to enjoy our experiences with the open and inspired mind of being a beginner.

"My work with teenagers," Matt said, is something about himself he considers to be a success.  I loved hearing about Matt's work and his influence being spread across the generations.  From kids to elders, Matt's work is making a difference.

Day 37 - Chris

This is Chris.  We met at Mt. Tabor Park.  Chris was just finishing her workout and I was just about to start mine.  For the sake of caution, it's been my routine to take a picture after I'm finished with my workout so that I don't announce to anyone who may be scoping out the parked cars for a break-in, that I'm leaving a camera in my soon-to-be-unattended car.  I'm a complete sweaty mess after working out and it's so embarrassing to approach someone when you're a sweaty mess and breathing heavily, but I think this routine limits the possibility of  break-in.  However, when Chris walked by and flashed her friendly smile, I just had to ask if she would be in the project. She just looked so nice!

"My job," Chris answered, is the happiest thing happening in her life right now.

I asked Chris if she's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness and she responded, "every day."  Chris went on to explain that even though it's so small and simple, every day when people smile at her, she receives a gift.  I told Chris that I'm sure she must receive a lot of those gifts, because she gives them out so freely.  Chris' warm smile was what prompted me to approach her.

I asked Chris if she had a personal mission statement and she explained that she tries to live by the "golden" advice from her Mom - "Do unto others as you would have others do unto you."

"My children," Chris said, is something about herself which she considers to be a success.

Chris' children have a great Mom!

I look at Chris' picture and her contagious smile, and I can't help but to feel happy, and feel a smile building on my own face.

Day 38 - Orville

This is Orville.  "Like Orville Redenbacher," Orville clarified, when I didn't quite hear his name correctly the first time.    Orville was sitting outside of Sam's Billiards, waiting for pool league play to begin, when I approached to ask him if I could take his picture.

"Being retired," Orville said, is the happiest thing happening in his life right now.  He's happy to be finished with some of the drudgery of work-life, enduring the traffic, and having to get along with people with whom getting along is quite difficult.  (Orville was quite colorful in his description of those sorts of people, but I'll just keep that part a little secret.)

I asked Orville if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness, "yes definitely," he responded.  Orville has meals at the Senior Center, which he considers an act of kindness.  On the giving end, Orville also volunteers at the same Senior Center.

I asked Orville if he had a personal mission statement.  Orville answered, "To survive. To live another day.  Today is the first day of the rest of my life."

"Having raised a family," Orville said, is one thing about himself which he considers to be a success.  Orville and I visited a little while longer. He told me about his kids and grandkids and said when it comes to raising kids, "be firm but nice."  When it was time to leave, Orville asked to view his picture, and then he actually thanked me for taking his picture.  I'm usually the one doing the thanking, although it feels like I could never adequeally express my gratitude to those who have allowed me to take their picture for the project.   I have a feeling that Orville then proceeded to go into Sam's and teach "the kids" a thing or two about shooting pool.

Day 39 - Mitchell.

This is Mitchell.  He was also just walking down the sidewalk when we met.  He was on break from work, so we had to be quick!

"My girlfriend," Mitchell said, is the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Mitchell has been on the receiving end of an act of kindness in that his friends just took him out, and they enjoy and appreciate his company.

"Be the best person I can be," Mitchell said, is his personal mission statement.

I asked Mitchell something about himself which he would consider to be a success and he answered, "my demeanor."  I agreed and told Mitchell he has a great demeanor.

Day 40 - Brenden

This is Brenden.  He was a co-worker, until this day, which was his last day at the company where I work.

I asked Brenden the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he responded, "Change is the biggest thing and the happiest thing, and the people in my life who are supporting me during this change."

Brenden was having trouble thinking of an example of having been on the receiving end of an act of kindness, but he said that he tries to do nice things for others.  Brenden's band, "When We Team Up," just had a show on Monday and he gave two of his comped drink tickets to a random stranger who didn't have any money.

I asked Brenden if he had a personal mission statement and he clarified that he has a life objective - "To make myself happy and hopefully one day I'll find my bliss, find my place in this world, and be successful in it."    We're going to miss Brenden, but we'll actually still get to see him as he's going to work for a customer.  His skill and passion are in design, and now he'll be able to do what he loves.

Because of this project, I learned more about Brenden in 10 minutes than I had learned in the past few years of working together.  When we talk to each other at work, we're talking about t-shirts and ink.  We can go months or years and without learning about one another and I'm so glad this project has given me great reason to get to know people.

"The fact that I'm a go-getter, instead of sitting back and waiting for things to come to me...figuring out what I want and making it happen," Brenden said, is something about himself which he considers to be a success.  I enjoyed our last conversation and was touched by Brenden's words.  He doesn't want to spend his time wandering and wondering his place in this world.  Brenden wants to find it, succeed in it, and be happy with it.

Brenden, you will find your bliss and in it, you will find success.

Day 41 - Josh

This is Josh.  He was sitting outside of Compass Coffee, looking so content, when I spotted him and asked if I could take his picture for the project.  When he agreed, I basically just invited myself to sit down with him at his table.

When I sat down, Josh asked a few questions about the project and seemed surprised that I wanted him to be my "person of the day."  After Josh and I were finished, I started daydreaming about the future.  Some day, I want us all to have a "person of the day."  You know how people Instagram pictures for #OutfitOfTheDay or  #ThrowbackThursday - I dream for the day when we're all wandering the streets looking for new friends we haven't met yet.  I can't wait for the day when you get to experience what I've been experiencing for the past 13 months.  I look forward to the day when people go out and talk with a stranger and share their #PersonOfTheDay photo, or their #NewFriendFriday or their #MeetSomeoneMonday picture.  Would you be on board with that?   Would you approach a stranger, otherwise known as a friend-you-haven't-met-yet, and then share their picture?

I asked Josh the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he answered, "I'm currently between jobs."  Normally, this would seem like it could be a stressful position to be in, but after learning about Josh's work, I understood why he welcomed the break. I didn't want to pry too much, but from what little he said, I gathered his work is extremely stressful and intense.  This explained why he looked so content and peaceful when I spotted him. He was truly enjoying the simple pleasure of a cup of coffee on a sunny patio.

I asked Josh if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness and he answered, "I have a very large and loving family, so I receive acts of kindness every day."

I asked Josh if he had a personal mission statement. Josh answered with the quote, "Memento Mori.  Memento Vivere."  Josh translated (and I also looked it up to verify I had written it correctly) "Remember that you must die.  Remember that you must live."  I explained to Josh that in a strange coincidence, the reoccurring theme in the past 5 books I've read, is that facing our mortality can actually be quite liberating and inspiring.

I asked Josh something about himself which he would consider to be a success. Josh answered, "I don't consider myself a success yet.  I'm working on success.  My success is that I continue trying to be more successful."

Best wishes to you, Josh.

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

• To be a good Dad.
• In the beginner's mind there are many possibilities, but in the expert's mind there are few.
• Do unto others as you would have others do unto you.
• To survive. To live another day.  Today is the first day of the rest of my life.
• Be the best person I can be.
• To make myself happy and hopefully one day I'll find my bliss, find my place in this world, and be successful in it.
• Memento Mori.  Memento Vivere. (Remember that you must die. Remember that you must live.)

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

Wishing you a week filled with happiness and good people!

365 More People Pictures - Week 5

Hello! We're finished with week 5 of The 365 More People Pictures Project!  As I wrote that sentence, I couldn't help but chuckle at how poorly I named both this project, and last year's 365 Day People Picture Project.

I owe you a bit of an explanation, and I owe myself a little slack. Ok, a lot of slack.  Before starting the first project, I thought long enough about the idea of taking a picture of a person every day for a year, to allow it to become an obsession, and then a burning desire. Or maybe the burning desire came first, and obsession followed.  (I'd have to think about that, but that sort of chicken-egg-chicken debate is one which I'll never be able to really settle.)  I thought about it long enough to know I was going to do it, but not long enough to talk myself out of doing it, or to really consider the actual reality of how it would impact my daily life or schedule.  By not giving it enough consideration to discourage myself from doing the project, means I also hadn't given any real consideration to naming the project.  I shot out of the starting block with a "working title" and that's what stuck.

The 365 More People Pictures Project was named, or un-named, in exactly the same way.  Once the first hashtag is used, you're just sort of stuck with it.  So here we are, week 5 of The 365 More People Pictures Project.  If you ever decide to do your own 365 Day Project, I hope you'll come up with a brilliant name before you start.

Day 28 - Kari

This is Kari.  She was walking the path along the Columbia River when we met.

The happiest thing happening in Kari's life right now, is that she's taking a month-long cruise from San Francisco to Sydney.

I asked Kari if she's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness and at first, she couldn't think of anything because she's been somewhat isolated, recovering from a recent shoulder surgery.  After telling me about her surgery, she remembered that one of her friends helped her by taking her to her doctor appointments.

"I'm still trying to figure that out, that's why I'm traveling," Kari answered, when I asked her life's purpose.  Kari then when on to say, "what you think about, you bring about." Kari believes instead of focusing on what we're afraid of and "what ifs," we should have faith and focus on what we want.

I asked Kari something about herself which she would consider to be a success and she replied, "my whole life is a success. Everything I put my mind  to do, I keep at it till I get there."

I had a nice time hanging out with Kari for a little while longer and hearing some of her wisdom on everything from how to save money on travel, to getting what we want from life.  Kari and I day-dreamed for a moment about what it would be like live on a cruise ship rather than in an assisted living facility when we get old.

Bon Voyage, Kari!

Day 29 - Duffy and his Dogs

This is Duffy and his dogs.  We met at Mt. Tabor Park.  The dogs pretty much look how I look after doing the stairs.

"Walking these guys," Duffy answered, is the happiest thing happening in his life.

I asked Duffy if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness and Duffy explained that right now, it's time for him to be on the giving end.  It's been a heavy year of giving and caring for sick friends.

"To do your best every day, and to be honest and sincere," Duffy Answered, is his personal mission statement.

I asked Duffy something about himself which he would consider to be a success, and he answered that it would be his outgoing personality.

I love taking headshot-like portraits of people.  I didn't have a "style" when I started this project, but over time, I've definitely developed a personal preference and my favorite is taking headshot portraits.  You've probably noticed that I love to get up close and personal...so close that you can see the twinkle in a person's eyes, feel a person's sparkle, and even imagine the sound of their voice.  Portraits are my favorite.  I'm getting better.  I'm seeing improvement.  However, I'm pushing myself to do more.  I don't think there's anything wrong with developing a specialty and over time, you find your own style, but I'm so inexperienced and such a beginner, that I think it's important not to limit myself to just one thing right now.  The more we try in photography, and in life, the more likely we are to discover something we love, or something at which we may even be good.  At the very least, working outside your comfort zone strengthens and sharpens your skills in other areas.  When I take a picture of anything other than a headshot/portrait, such as this, it feels like I could do a better job with my iPhone than with a DSLR.  It just takes practice. Lots and lots of practice.

Day 30 - Robert and Collin

This is Robert and Collin. We also met at Mt. Tabor.

"My girlfriend," Robert answered, is the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

"To enjoy myself as much as I can, without hurting others," Robert said, is his personal mission statement.

I asked Robert something about himself which he considers to be a success, and Robert answered, "I'm the first person in my family to graduate from college."  Robert paved the way, and now his Sister and other family members have followed his lead.

Day 31 - Raul

This is Raul.

I asked Raul the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he answered, "my Daughters."

When I asked Raul if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness, he answered, "all the time. I have good people around me."  The day prior, Raul's neighbor brought him dinner, completely out of the blue and unexpected.

"To bring good around me," Raul answered, is his personal mission statement.

I asked Raul one thing about himself which he considers to be a success and he answered, the "great community around me."

Day 32 - Anonymous Dog Walker and Anonymous Dog

This is Anonymous Dog Walker and Anonymous Dog.  They were in a hurry, but they paused long enough for a quick picture and to answer a couple quick  questions.

"I just got married," answered the anonymous dog walker, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.  I joked that he was in a hurry to get home to his new wife.

"To keep things positive," is the anonymous dog walker's personal mission statement.

Day 33 - Paige

This is Paige.  We met at the bus stop.

"I'm going to a show with my girlfriend," Paige said, is the happiest thing happening in her life right now.

When I asked Paige if she's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness, she said that the cashier at the grocery store was nice, and that everyone had been nice today.  We talked about how when we're feeling happy or nice, we seem to attract other nice and happy people.  I know, personally, an extremely friendly cashier can also lift my spirits and put me in a great mood when I've otherwise been stressed or preoccupied with something else.  Paige then took that friendly experience and passed it forward.  Paige had purchased a bunch of juice because it was on sale, and then proceeded to give some of her extra juice to a stranger, just because they needed it.

When I asked Paige if she had a personal mission statement or if she could think of one, she asked if she could share her Dad's instead.  Paige's dad had just recently told her that he thought he'd finally figured it all out and asked her if she wanted his philosophy of life.  He had written it down for her on a little note card.  I'm going to share with you Paige's Dad's Philosophy of Life, exactly as he wrote it down for her.   (Between Paige's recollection and my hastily written notes, we had changed things a bit.  After our interaction, Paige and I became Instagram friends and she shared her Dad's note, so I'm taking it straight from the photo of her Dad's Philosophy of Life.)

Find something to do that you love and learn to do it as well as you can.

Find a partner to share life with.

Leave the world a better place than you found it.

Treat other people the way you want to be treated.

Enjoy life!

Such great wisdom from Paige's Dad.  This project has taught me one unexpected skill, which is how to keep the tears from welling up and actually spilling onto my cheek."  Paige's Dad's words were so loving.  I had to fight to keep my tears hidden.  My heart was just so touched by Paige's Dad's love for her, and his obvious pursuit of the meaning of life.

Day 34 - Alicia

This is Alicia.  She was packing up from having spent the day as an exhibitor at the Vancouver Peace and Justice Fair.

I asked Alicia the happiest thing happening in her life right now and she explained that she's soon going to get an apartment through the Share Aspire program, through the council for the homeless.  Alicia shared more about her circumstances, but rather than elaborate, I'd rather just be encouraging and supportive of the next chapter in Alicia's life and wish her the best of luck and success.

I asked Alicia if she had a personal mission statement and Alicia explained that her personal mission statement is the same as the mission of her business/organization, Casa De Las Palomas,  - "To promote peace, justice and well-being for all citizens, equally."

When I asked Alicia something about herself which she considers to be a success, she answered, "my business."

The subjects from this week, with a guest appearance from a subject's dad, have shared the following wisdom with us:

• What you think about, you bring about.
• To do your best every day, and to be honest and sincere.
• To enjoy myself as much as I can, without hurting others.
• To bring good around me.
• To keep things positive.
• Find something to do that you love and learn to do it as well as you can.
• Find a partner to share life with.
• Leave the world a better place than you found it.
• Treat other people the way you want to be treated.
• Enjoy life. 
• To promote peace, justice and well-being for all citizens, equally.

Sincere appreciation to all of the subjects from this week, and throughout the entire project.  Thanks to you for following along.

Wishing you a happy and productive week!

365 More People Pictures - Week 4

Hello! This is the review of week 4, of The 365 More People Pictures Project.

I caught myself questioning the decision to do another entire year-long project of taking a picture of a person, every single day.  Again, I found myself full of self-doubt and fear that I'm not going to be able to do it, and wondering how in the world I managed to do it the first time around.  Looking ahead 365 days is entirely too much to comprehend right now, so I got through the week just focusing on one thing - I just need to take a picture of a person, today.  That's all.  Today.

Day 21 - Julie

This is Julie.  We met at the Island Cafe. (Yes, we went back for a let's-pretend-we're-on-vacation dinner.)

Julie was with a big group of jovial friends from Minnesota.  I approached the group and asked if I could take a picture of one of them for my project.  Julie's friends all nominated her to be the subject because she's a photographer.

The happiest thing happening in Julie's life right now is the birth of her third grandchild.

I asked Julie if she's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness and she gestured to one of her friends and said that he just bought dinner for their group.

"To leave a legacy of love & friendship & kindness," Julie said, is her personal legacy.

Julie said that being a Mom is one thing about herself which she considers to be a success.

Day 22 - Guy

This is Guy.  He had just come off the lake when we met. He had been fishing from his Kayak.    Guy answered, "summertime," when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

I asked Guy if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness and he explained that he had recently lost his backpack when it fell from his kayak, and miraculously, someone was kind enough to turn it in and return it to him!

"Life is a journey, live on," Guy replied, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement.

I asked Guy something about himself which he would consider to be a success and he replied, "I've traveled the world and had a good time."  Guy then listed off several countries to which he's been, and he's been to 48 states.  He has yet to visit North Dakota and Alaska.  Guy and I became Instagram friends and the day after I had taken his picture, I noticed he was flying off to his next journey.

Day 23 - Bob

This is Bob. We met at Mt. Tabor.  Bob agreed to let me take his picture, but then I could tell he wasn't thrilled about it.  It was his niceness which won out over his reservations of having his picture taken.

"People are healthy in my family, " Bob said, is the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

I asked Bob if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness and he said that a merchant did some extra repairs for him and didn't charge him for the work.

I asked Bob his life's purpose and he answered, "to help, and enjoy, my family and the people I encounter."  True to his purpose, Bob helped me with the project, even though he may have been a little camera-shy.  Thank you, Bob!

"Being involved with an enjoyable family," Bob answered, when I asked something about himself which he would consider to be a success.

Day 24 - Johnny McMahon

This is Johnny.   We met at Mt. Tabor.

"Skating with my bass player, Lindsey," Johnny answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.  Mt. Tabor Park is closed to cars on Wednesdays so the park is filled with downhill longboard skaters.  Johnny is almost 53 and he was about to go skate with all of the "kids," he joked.  He was laughing at himself for putting on so much safety gear and wondering what the kids would think about his knee pads, elbow pads and helmet.  He pretty much padded everything that could be padded.  I told him they weren't going to laugh at him, they'd think he was cool for being an old man and still skating! (And, he's smart!)  He pointed out the board his friend and former bandmate, Lindsey, had given to him, which he had fitted with a custom foot brake.   Johnny was in a band with Lindsey in the 80's, called Avant Garde.  Johnny joked that the new brake was either going to be helpful or it could cause him to crash and he'd be propelled off his board and I may be the last person to have seen him alive.  I was nervous after he told me that and I was so tempted to stay to make sure he was safe!

I asked Johnny if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness and he explained that his friends on his radio show set up a website for him to raise money for a new set of choppers.  He's just a few donors away from meeting his goal to be able to get a brand new set of pearly-whites.  Check out Operation Iron Choppers

"I'm going to Heaven and I'm going to take as many of you bastards as possible," Johnny said, is his personal mission statement.  Johnny is such a character.  Yes, Johnny is just the way you imagined him to be from having just read that comment.  He's fun, loud, gruff-voiced and full of personality!

I asked Johnny something about himself which he would consider to be a success and he answered, "The Iron Show."  Johnny has an online radio program with a reach of over 250,000 listeners!   Here's a link to Johnny's Iron Show.

Wishing you luck, happiness and success, Johnny!

Day 25 - Joonie

This is Joonie.  He was nice enough interrupt his run at Mt. Tabor in order to pause long enough for a picture.

The happiest thing happening in Joonie's life right now is that he's getting to enjoy the weather, play tennis, and run.

I asked Joonie if he's been on the recipient of an act of kindness and he couldn't think of a specific example but confirmed he's often on the receiving end of kindness and said, "people are good to me."

"Keep it simple, be happy," Joonie answered, when I asked if he could think of a personal mission statement.

I asked Joonie something about himself which he considers to be a success and he replied that he has, "self-supporting employment."

Day 26 - Morgan

This is Morgan. We met at the Park and Ride bus station.

"Living here," Morgan answered, is the happiest thing happening in his life.  Morgan just moved here from Florida a few months ago.

I asked Morgan if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness and he explained that his new roommate here in Portland allowed him to stay rent-free for 3 months while Morgan settled in and found work.  Morgan is now working and will repay the back-rent, but this is a pretty amazing act of kindness from a complete stranger. Morgan's roommate wasn't a friend, she was just a random person he had met online!

"To be a better person than I was in Florida," Morgan answered, is his personal mission statement.  Morgan's move to Portland is a fresh start and I'm wishing him lots of success!

I asked Morgan something about himself which he considers to be a success and he shared that he's had a story published.  I asked Morgan if he wanted to share a link to the story with us here, but he was bashful and modest and said it was just a little small-town Florida publication.  He's optimistic the move to Portland will help him further his writing successes.

Day 27 - Jeff

This is Jeff.  He was hanging out in the park along the Columbia River.

I asked Jeff about the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he answered, "I'm happy every day with the free gift of life that God gave me!"

I asked Jeff if he had been on the receiving end of an act of kindness and he said that his parents had just come to visit him here.

When I asked Jeff if he had a personal mission statement, he said he has a personal motto, "aim high!"  He has high expectations of himself with his school and family.

I asked Jeff something about himself which he considers to be a success and he answered that he's still working on it.  He wants to finish school, no matter how long it takes, and he wants to be successful in the future.  He has great ambition, but I was also want to hear from people something positive for the present, so I persisted.  Jeff then answered, "I'm raising two kids."

Wishing Jeff lots of success and happiness here!

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

• To leave a legacy of love & friendship & kindness.
• Life is a journey, live on.
• To help, and enjoy, my family and the people I encounter.
• I'm going to Heaven and I'm going to take as many of you bastards as possible.
• Keep it simple, be happy.
• To be a better person than I was in Florida.
• Aim high.

Yes, I've been having a little fun with the InstaQuote app.  Here's a picture from my little journey to Wahkeena Falls + Multnomah Falls yesterday, and Guy's reminder to us that to journey, is to live.  Even if our  journey is only as far as our own back yard, opening our eyes and our hearts to the beauty around us is truly living.

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

Have a great week and enjoy the journey!

365 More People Pictures - Week 2

Hello and welcome to week 2 of the 365 More People Pictures project! This post is actually a review of the subjects from two weeks ago.  I'm still taking a picture of a person every day, and I post those pictures to Instagram.  If you'd like to follow along daily, my Instagram username is @missellana.  I'm not behind in the daily pictures, I'm just behind in sharing them with you here on the blog. We'll catch us up soon!

Day 7 - Jeff

This is Jeff.  He was sitting outside on the patio of a Starbucks when I approached to ask if I could take his picture.

It wasn't until I sat down at Jeff's table that I noticed a HUGE backpack sitting next to him. I asked if he was traveling.  Jeff explained that he's from France.  Jeff is backpacking and hitchhiking from Calgary to Ecuador.  Jeff was waiting at Starbucks for his Vancouver USA host, Tabatha, to pick him up for the  night.

I asked Jeff the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he responded, "the fact that I'm changing countries."

I asked Jeff if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness and right then, Tabatha showed up.  They quickly introduced themselves, I told Tabitha that we'd be quick, and then Jeff answered that he's on the receiving end of Tabatha's kindness right now. They had never met, but Tabitha was going to host him for the night.   I suspect with the huge trip ahead of him, Jeff will experience kindness all the way to Ecuador.

I asked Jeff if he had a life's purpose.  "To find a purpose," Jeff answered.  Thinking about Jeff and his Journey to Ecuador, reminded me of Santiago, in "The Alchemist."  I imagine Jeff traveling in search of his Personal Legend.

"I just graduated from engineering school," Jeff answered, when I asked something about himself which he would consider to be a success.  With that, Jeff and his newfound friend, Tabatha, were on their way.

Day 8 - Charlene

This is Charlene.  Surprisingly, I was having a challenging time finding a subject down at Portland's Waterfront Park.  I had already been rejected and had been wandering around for a while when I finally spotted Charlene.  She was photographing the Portland skyline.  I've always had great luck with photographers and haven't been refused by one yet.  Who else would better understand the randomness of a complete stranger approaching them to ask for a picture?

I learned that Charlene is a professional photographer. I asked the happiest thing happening in her life right now and she replied, "my son is starting Junior High."

Charlene was on the receiving end of an act of kindness just the day before, when a friend had given her an art print with the saying, "don't ever let anyone take your sparkle."  It was a particularly thoughtful and meaningful gift because the friend knew it would remind Charlene of her mother who had passed away.  Charlene and her Mom shared a little saying, inspired by Shirley Temple and her mom.  Shirley Temple's mom used to say to Shirley, "Sparkle, Shirley, Sparkle." Charlene was given the same loving instructions from her own mom, "Sparkle, Charlene, Sparkle."

After hearing Charlene's great story, I told her that "sparkle" is a bit of coincidence for us both.  I explained to Charlene that I'm not a real photographer. I'm just learning and even after taking a picture every day for a year, I still know so little about photography.  I told Charlene that in order to compensate for my lack of technical knowledge, I've been approaching photography from an emotional angle.  I've simplified things in my mind and my objective has been simply to try to capture a person's sparkle.

I asked Charlene if she had a personal mission statement or if she could think of one on the spot.  Charlene said that her personal and professional mission are intertwined - "the art of love."  Charlene explained that she "photographs things that show love."  When she's shooting pictures, she's mindful that she's capturing someone special. She's capturing someone's wife, girlfriend, or mom... and she's taking those pictures for someone special in their life.  She wants the love to show and she wants their someone special to feel love.

"I made my Mom's life happier," Charlene answered, when I asked something about herself which she considers to be a success.  Before she passed, Charlene's Mom told her once that the past 27 years had been the happiest days of her life.  Charlene knew how much she was loved and her mom knew how much she was loved in return.  I loved Charlene's mom's play on words and it reminded me of my own mom.

I loved meeting Charlene and can't help  thinking it was meant to be.  On days which it has been particularly difficult to find a subject, I always end up meeting someone who leaves a lasting memory and I always end up thinking, so this was who I was supposed to meet today.  Charlene and I are similar in a few ways and it's amazing to me that she was a complete stranger, yet we connected immediately.

Wishing you lots of success in The Art of Love.

Day 9 - Matt

This is Matt.  I like this picture because I can totally envision it on the back of a book jacket.  I don't even know if Matt has plans to write a book, but looking at this makes me think that he has interesting and important things to tell us.

"My new car," Matt responded, is the happiest thing happening in his life right now.  I don't know for sure, but it looked like he could have just driven it off the lot that day. She was a beauty!

I asked Matt if he had been on the receiving end of an act of kindness and he was certain that he's frequently on the receiving end of kindness.  The most recent thing to come to mind was that his Mom had just bough him kettle corn at the fair.  I thought this was such a cute answer.  Even as grown adults, our mom buying us treats at the fair is still one of life's greatest simple pleasures.

When I asked Matt if he had a personal mission statement, he answered with his personal mantra -"love, happiness, success and longevity."

"The position I'm in at my job," Matt answered, is a personal accomplishment that he didn't think he'd be able to achieve.

Day 10 - Karefan

This is Karefan.  He was waiting at the Park & Ride bus station when we met.

When I asked Karefan about the happiest thing happening in his life right now, he responded, "that's a good question."  He considered the question for a while, long enough that I was starting to feel sad that he couldn't think of something, but then he finally answered, "coming to USA."  Karefan and most of his family moved here from Ukraine this past year.

I asked Karefan about some of his good traits.  He couldn't, or wouldn't, answer.  Instead, he asked me what I thought his good traits could be.  I persisted, explaining I wanted to hear it from him.  He finally answered that he's a hard worker.  I only talked with Karefan for a few moments, but I think one positive trait is that Karafan is an extremely nice person.  Although Karefan speaks english, there's still a bit of a language barrier and he's in a foreign country. I would imagine it would be easy to isolate yourself under those challenges, but Karefan is nice and friendly.

One thing about himself which he considers to be a success is that he's starting college soon!

Wishing Karefan and his family happiness and success here.

Day 11 - Adam

This is Adam.  I met Adam several years ago at Sam's Billiards. He's a tattoo artist and I was happy to bump into him again. I asked Adam about the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he responded, "my daughter."

I asked Adam if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness and he answered that his friend has been helping him out with childcare.

"To be honest and creative," Adam answered, is his personal mission statement.

One thing about himself which Adam considers to be a success, is his relationship with his parents and family.

You can check out Adam at Anatomy Tattoo.

Day 12 - Cameron

This is Cameron.  He's a new co-worker and were it not for this project, I'm not sure how much time would have passed before we had the opportunity to get to know one another.  Our work is extremely busy and intense so we don't get much time to visit.

I asked Cameron the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he answered, "change."  Cameron recently moved to Portland from San Diego. Cameron has known since he was 12 years old that he wanted to move to Portland.   He knew, even at that young age, that San Diego didn't offer him what he needed and he thought there's something unique in Portland which you can't get anywhere else.  I know exactly what Cameron was trying to describe.  I think I was probably the same age on my first visit to Portland.  My mom drove me and another friend here to compete in the Junior Olympics and as we crossed over the Marquam Bridge and I saw the city for the first time, I just knew I wanted to live in Portland.  (Ironically, the only other city to excite me in the same way, was San Diego.)

I asked Cameron if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness.  Cameron explained, "basically, Portland is nice."  He went on to say that every day he experiences some sort of kindness.  Even something as simple as giving someone a cigarette opens the door to having a great interaction with a stranger.  It's the little things the people of Portland do which makes Cameron feel like he's experiencing kindness. People stop and say hi, and talk to one another.

I asked Cameron if he had a personal mission statement or if he could make one up on the spot. He lifted his arm and on his wrist I read the tattoo, "PMA."  In unison, we both said, "positive mental attitude!"  I loved this!!!   I told Cameron about my high school volleyball coach, who at random times, would yell - "how's your PMA?"  Our response was to be an enthusiastic shout back, "boy am I enthusiastic!"  To this day, I give myself, "PMA checks" and yes, in my mind I answer back, "boy am I enthusiastic!" As I'm typing these words, it just hit me. Our Coach's random PMA checks weren't random at all.  She would shout that when we were anything but enthusiastic.  If you give this a try, you'll find out that it's impossible not to have a spike in enthusiasm after just yelling, "BOY AM I ENTHUSIASTIC!"  Go on, try it.  See what I mean?  Instant attitude adjustment, right?  I love Cameron's tattoo and now when I see him, I will stop and check myself for a positive mental attitude.

I wanted to share Cameron's tattoo with you,  but as you can see - I'm still fumbling through getting the aperture correct.  My new lens is such a high- performer, I have to get it just right or it will blur too much of the background, or too much of the foreground. It's beyond my skill level but I'm learning to be deliberate and to change the aperture when I want to get both the background and foreground. Clearly, I'm learning the hard way as I didn't quite get it on this.  I'm getting a good grasp when it comes to taking a portrait of a single person, but I have to work at everything else.  They were still cool pictures and if I hadn't told you they were mistakes, you'd might even think they were cool too.

I asked Cameron something about himself which he considers to be a success.  "Who I am," Cameron answered, "I don't wan't that to sound braggadocious."  Cameron feels like he's able to make it through the ups and downs that life gives us and he added:  "We have to adapt. We have to move on. We have to keep going.  As long as you're breathing, life will keep going.  I refuse to wake up and say, this is it - this is the end."

Aaah... good stuff.  I'm really liking our new co-worker!  Wishing you lots of success and happiness here, Cameron!

Day 13 - Melvin

This is Melvin.  He was sitting outside the mall, looking exhausted, when we met. I learned it was because his wife was still inside shopping.

"I'm alive and healthy and above ground," Melvin answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.  This is one of my favorite answers and is parallel to what Cameron had say the day prior. No matter how tough things may be, life will keep going as long as we're breathing. When we wake to live another day, we have the opportunity to get better, no matter how challenging things may be.

I asked Melvin if he had been on the receiving end of an act of kindness and he explained that he tries to be the giver.  He helps people out when he can.  When he sees homeless people on the street corner, he'll often take them to buy food.

"To live long and prosper," Melvin said, is his personal mission statement.  I laughed and told Melvin that he and my husband both share the same personal mission statement.  When my husband told me his statement, I asked him to think of a different one because he couldn't steal Spock's salutation.  After thinking about it, I realized Spock was onto something!   Spock had just about the most succinct, and most perfect mission statement and salutation ever! "Live long and prosper."  That says it all.

I asked Melvin something about himself which he would consider to be a success and he responded, "I've been married 23 years."   I have a feeling Melvin is one great husband.  He happily and patiently went out for air and let his wife continue with her shopping.   May you and your family "live long and prosper," Melvin.

Here's a summary of the personal mission statements and the life's purposes of the subjects from this week, and one little nugget which I edited from my conversation with Cameron.

• To find a purpose.
• The art of love - photograph things that show love.
• Love, happiness, success and longevity.
• To be honest and creative.
• PMA - Positive Mental Attitude
• Adapt. Move on. Keep Going. As long as you're breathing, life will keep going.  Refuse to say, this is it - this is the end. 
• Live long and prosper.

Thank you to the subjects from this week and thank you for following along!  I'll catch us up to date soon!

365 Day People Picture Project - Week 52

Hello! This is week 52, of The 365 Day People Picture Project!

This is not a good-bye.  I'm just getting warmed up. Plus, we still have one more picture to go!

This post covers day 358 though day 364.  I haven't yet taken the 365th picture.  I decided rather than delay today's post in order to include day 365,  I'll just make a separate post next week, which will cover day 365 and also provide an opportunity to reflect on this past year.

Here's the deal...I'm not ready to stop.  It is my concern that if I stop the challenge, I'll not only stop photography, but I'll end up stopping the blog entirely.  I'm also concerned I'll retreat back into my own secluded little world.   I'm not certain of the future, but I'm certain I want to keep going.  I would love a day off, but if I stop, I can't ever go back in time to bridge the gap.  What if I decide I want a streak of taking a picture of a person, every day, for 5 years?  If I take one day off, I'll have to start over at square one.  I can always stop, but I can't ever get back any missed days.

So, this isn't over yet!  I don't know what will happen, but I'm going to continue taking daily pictures until I can sort myself out.

Day 358 - Bob

This is Bob.  I met Bob at Esther Short Park, in Vancouver.

"Independence," Bob said, is the happiest thing happening in his life right now.  Bob appeared to have just finished a stroll around the park when we met. I don't know if this is true, but I got the feeling that Bob has lived an active life.  I could make out an athletic form which has been slowed by pain, stiffness, and time.

I asked Bob if he's recently performed an act of kindness. Bob considered the question for a while and then answered, "yes, I perform Native ceremonies."  Curious, I asked Bob what kind of ceremonies. Bob, not sure I would understand, or not sure he could explain, went on to say he performs sweat lodge ceremonies, healings, and vision quests.

When I asked Bob if he had a personal mission statement, Bob said that he doesn't have one, but rather, "I go the direction Creator takes me."

"My purpose in life is to serve others, and I've been successful there," Bob answered, when I asked him something about himself which he would consider to be a success.  It's interesting that Bob went on to talk about his life's purpose.  When I ask people about their personal mission statement and it appears the question is too big of a bite to chew,  I often then re-phrase the question to ask about their "life's purpose."  It's an equally challenging question and almost identical in nature, but for some reason - it's a more manageable bite to swallow.  Bob made the leap on his own.  We talked about his lack of a mission statement in which he said he simply goes the direction The Creator takes him, but then Bob went on the explain his life's purpose.  This is exactly the flow I've intended with the set of questions I've been asking.

I think Bob is the best photograph in the entire project.  I'm sure I made technical errors that a professional photographer, or any experienced photographer, would critique, but I think this is my best.

When I started this project, I started following several photographers on social media.  I view thousands of images a week.  One thing I've noticed is that there seems to be a trend or tendency for some photographers to go quite heavy on the sharpening and contrast on portraits of elders.  When I first started seeing images like this, I was blown away!  They make for striking and unforgettable photographs.  While "developing" Bob's photo to be Instagramed on the day his picture was taken,  I experimented with extreme sharpening and contrast...but it just wasn't for me.  As striking as I find those types of photographs to be, I've realized that it's not my "personal style."  For the majority of this project, my "personal style" could probably be described simply as very poor quality.  I'm now starting to see that I have developed a bit of a personal style and I can see little improvements.  To me, Bob is striking enough on his own.  The few minor adjustments I made in lightroom were more than enough.  I think my eye tends to favor, for myself, the more organic look of photographs from the 50's through 80's.  Because of the changes in technology, the entire feel of photography has also evolved.  I'm just not there yet.

Day 359 - Phil and Sean

This is Phil (left) and Sean (right).  I've seen these two at Mt. Tabor for the past couple of years.  They're often working out with Timm and Nic,  from day 51.  They're all a bunch of beasts!  They workout with so much intensity, you'd think they were being ordered to do so by a drill sergeant!  They had just finished their workout when I asked if I could take their picture.

I asked the happiest thing happening in their lives right now and Phil answered, "I just became an uncle."  Sean replied, "my son - he's 1 and 1/2 years old."

Phil's recent act of kindness is that he bought his girlfriend 2 new bathing suits for her vacation to Mexico, which she will be taking without him.  Sean and I both laughed and asked if they were full body suits since she was going alone.  Sean's recent act of kindness is that he donated a $1.00 when he made a purchase at Walgreen's.

"Living every day to the fullest," Phil said, is his personal mission statement.  He went on to say that to do so, means "living every moment."  Just judging by the way these guys workout, I know Phil lives this.  There's nothing half-ass about the way they tackle the stairs, so I know they must tackle life with the same intensity.  "The pursuit of love and kindness," Sean said, is his personal mission statement.

I asked Phil and Sean something about themselves which they would consider to be a success.  Phil responded, "my career."  "Family," Sean answered.

Once again, I'm thankful for this project for giving me a reason to actually stop to talk with people I've been seeing for months.  We've exchanged "nods" or quick "hi's," but we've never talked.  How many people do we continue to pass by on a daily basis?

Day 360 - Sanman

This is Sanman.  We also met at Mt. Tabor, where he had just finished a run.  He confessed that he doesn't like running, but his friends have encouraged him that he'll learn to love running once he becomes a stronger runner.  So, he's convincing himself to become a runner by running until he loves it.  His long term goal is to finish a marathon.

I asked Sanman the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he replied, "just talking to my family every day."

Sanman's recent act of kindness is that he donated things to a homeless shelter.

"To eventually get away from the day-to-day routine and enjoy the smaller, simple things in life," Sanman said, is his life's purpose.  Sanman has reached the point in his life where his hard work has earned the financial security to start enjoying life and his hobbies such as climbing.  Sanman wants to travel, and we joked/dreamed of being able to buy a private island.

Day 361 - T.J.

This is T.J.  He was the third Tabor person in a row.  He was just starting to warm-up for his workout.

"My own business," T.J. said, is the happiest thing happening in his life right now.  He's started his own clothing line.

I asked T.J. if he had recently performed an act of kindness. "Every day," T.J. answered, most recently was holding the door open for people.

"To always do the best that I can do," T.J. said, is his personal mission statement.

I asked T.J. something about himself which he would consider to be a success and he replied, "my drive."

Day 362 - Nick

This is Nick.  He was waiting at the bus stop when we met.  This particular spot has been a challenge to me throughout the entire project.  Actually, there are a few ares in this one particular block which have challenged me.  My solution has been to avoid those spots whenever possible, but there have been times when the only subjects I could find, were in those troublesome spots.  I just had to figure out how to make it work.  When I got home to prepare Nick's picture to be Instagrammed, I was so disappointed.  362 days into the project and I still got hammered by a ball cap and the weird lighting thing that happens in that one particular spot.  I felt as if I hadn't learned a darn thing!  I may have blown the shot, but at least I've learned enough to know how to rescue the picture in lightroom. I was able to correct the exposure enough to see Nick's eyes.  Phew!

I asked Nick the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he replied, "my girlfriend is starting college."

Nick is a chef and he's working in a food cart.  His recent act of kindness is that he gave extra food to a homeless person and the recipient was extremely appreciative of the meal.

I asked Nick if he had a personal mission statement. Nick explained that when he was in school to become a Chef, they had a similar assignment, but how it related to their food.  Nick said, when people eat my food, "I want them to feel like they've fucked."  We laughed and Nick said, "I don't know if you can say that, but that's what I want."   Nick then clarified that I couldn't change the words to be "made love," because that's something different.  Nick has dreams of opening his own business some day. He told me a little about his plans and I'm excited for him.  He already has a clear vision, so I suspect he'll be up and running soon!

"Surviving the struggle," Nick said, is something about himself which he considers to be a success.

Day 363 - Ophelia Darkly

I had been wandering around in search of a subject when I reached the same bus stop where I struggled with Nick's picture the day before.  It's like I was being taunted, or tempted,  by that very same troublesome spot.  Ophelia was facing away from me when I approached the bus stop but I was determined to try to do better than I had done the day before.

I approached Ophelia and asked if I could take her picture.  When she turned to look at me, she revealed her amazing style.  I could tell she was conflicted, but it wasn't for the reason I would have expected.  She explained she's actually a professional model.  I understood.  She didn't even have to explain more...I got it.  Not only had I accidentally asked to take the picture of a professional Model, but I would not be compensating her for it.  Modeling is her profession.  Also, she was putting a great deal of trust in a complete stranger, a complete amateur at that.  She agreed to let me take her picture and when she did so, I became completely nervous. How many times have you heard me say that it's very easy to take a bad picture of a beautiful person?  I didn't want to blow it!  I confessed to Ophelia that knowing that she's a model was making me nervous.

When not in front of the camera, Ophelia comes across as a sweet and cute Portland girl, (although she's actually from Chicago) with excellent style.  The minute she got in front of the camera - BAM!!!!  She became Ophelia Darkly.  This whole other edgy persona emerged.  She went from being a sweet young woman waiting at the bus stop, to becomming this WOW persona.  I was stunned.  I think I even shook my head and said something like, "ok, yeah, I can tell you're a model."   I've learned in this project - NEVER discount the art of modeling.  An actual transformation occurs within a model which is so subtle that you can't even detect that it's happening, but the results are powerful and unmistakable when you see it in your viewfinder. It is indeed an art and a talent, and it is special and unique.

"I'm in love," Ophelia declared, when I asked about the happiest thing happening in her life right now.  At this point, the dark and edgy persona was a little more sunshine-y and the person in front of me was a cute young girl in love.

I asked Ophelia if she had recently performed an act of kindness and she explained that her friend's car was just towed from her apartment and she paid to have the car released because her friend didn't have the money, and she felt she should since the car had been towed while the friend was there visiting her.

"There's nothing greater than art, whatever that means to you," Ophelia said, is her personal mission statement.

I asked Ophelia something about herself which she would consider to be a success and she answered being "self-employed since December."  You can check out more of Ophelia's stunning work on her Model Mayhem site and her Etsy shop.

Ophelia was bitten by a dog when she was a child and as a result, she has a scar on her lip.  She was determined to be a model and to not let the scar prevent her from fulfilling the dream.  She went on to say that now, the scar is often just photoshopped out and it hasn't been an obstacle.  I explained to Ophelia that I'm a complete beginner and I don't even know how to do a quality edit to remove the scar, and basically asked her if it was ok to use an un-edited photo showing the scar.  She agreed.  I was so mesmerized by Ophelia's eyes that I hadn't noticed the scar.  I know, I know, this is something a photographer should see - but you would have been as entranced by her eyes and transformation as I was.  I understand in her profession that her childhood scar would often be re-touched to the point where it doesn't exist, but now that I see it and know the story, it is part of Ophelia Darkly.  Ophelia Darkly exists in spite of, or maybe because of, the scar on her face.

Wishing you success, Ophelia!

Day 364 - James

This is James.  He's in town, staying with Becki and Brent, to receive a promotion to Navy Chief Select.  We've actually known each other since grade school!

I couldn't figure out why my friend Becki was so interested in when I would be taking the pictures for day 364 and day 365.  When I couldn't give her an answer,  she told me that James was in town and suggested that I come over to take his picture for the project. I didn't want to impose on their plans so I started to pass on the invitation. After giving it some thought, I realized it would be great to have James as a subject!   I told her I'd be right over.  When I arrived, she told me she had something to show me. Becki told me that it was going to be a surprise which she wanted to present to me on Day 365, but she realized it just couldn't be possible.  She led me to her laptop, where on her screen I could see each and every picture I had taken this past year.  I was a little confused, but then it all made sense.  She had been poaching every single picture from the blog, organizing them, and she was preparing to have a photo book printed of every subject in the entire project!   It explained her persistence and why she needed to know when I would be taking my last pictures.  Since I didn't even know myself, I made it impossible for her to get the last few pictures in the book in time to present to me at a celebration dinner we're having tonight.  I started crying.  This is the nicest and most thoughtful thing anyone has ever done for me in my entire life.  I'm so thankful to have friends like this in my life.

Although Becki had ulterior motives, I'm so glad she let me know that James was in town.  He looks like the same kid I remember.

"My kids growing up," James said, is the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

I asked James if he had recently performed an act of kindness and he said that he had just bought coffee for someone.

"To always do the right thing" and "to enrich someone's life in some way," James answered, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement. James said that he knows it seems cliche, but that's how he tries to live his life.

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

Thank you, James, for being in this project!  Wishing you lots of happiness!

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

• I go the direction Creator takes me.
• My purpose in life is to serve others.
• Living every day to the fullest.
• The pursuit of love and kindness.
• To eventually get away from the day-to-day routine and enjoy the smaller, simple things in life.
• To always do the best that I can do.
• There's nothing greater than art, whatever that means to you.
• To always do the right thing.
• To enrich someone's life in some way.

Thank you to every single person in this project, and to you, for following along on this amazing ride!  It's not over yet!

See you next week!

365 Day People Picture Project - Week 50

Hello, and thank you for checking in on week 50, of The 365 Day People Picture Project. If you're just checking in for the first time, I challenged myself to take a picture of a person, every single day, for an entire year.  When I started this project, a year seemed like so long that I couldn't even allow myself to imagine the end.  I could only focus on one day at a time, otherwise it seemed an impossible challenge.  Now that we're down to only two weeks left in the project, it seems like the past 50 weeks have flown by and I'm not ready for the project to end.

Let's just get down to business, shall we?

Day 344 - Jaisa & Anne

This is Jaisa (left) and Anne (right).  Anne and I went to the same high school in Southern Oregon, and coincidentally, ended up moving and living within a few miles of each other in the Northwest! We had no idea we were even in the same town, but my co-worker's son played on the same sports team as Anne's sons, and one day they both connected the dots and realized they had a mutual acquaintance...me!

Jaisa and I were co-workers for several years.  Jaisa was 18, going on 28, when we started working together.

Anne has been a project-saver several times this past year.  There were several days, especially during the winter months, when I couldn't find a person, or it was just too stormy to go outside in search of a subject.  On those days, I'd meet up with Anne and her friends and find a subject at a bar/pub.  Were it not for Anne, I'm sure there were days I would have just thrown in the towel!

It was Anne's birthday and I wanted to finally get her picture for the project.  Jaisa had politely brushed me off the other times I'd asked  her, so this day - I finally got them both!

I asked them both the same questions as always, and amazingly, it was quite the therapeutic session for us all.  One that resulted in laughter, tears and hugs.  Not only has this project enabled me to connect with complete strangers, but it even aided in reconnecting with old friends!

"My son and his happiness, and his success and well-being," Jaisa said, is the happiest thing happening in her life right now.  Jaisa is always at the same level - you can't find a more even-tempered person than she.  However, when it comes to her son, her emotions are pure, raw, and intense. Her love for him has been evident since the day I first met her, some 19 years ago.

"My Birthday, surrounded by friends and family, and the boys are doing great," Anne said, is the happiest thing happening in her life right now.  Anne's sons are now both in college and their success gives her joy.  Anne was a star athlete when we were in high school, and her sons take after their mama in that respect!

I asked Anne and Jaisa if they had recently performed an act of kindness.  I was sort of shocked at how much of an impact this question had on them both.  Anne and Jaisa were rather distressed that they couldn't think of an act of kindness.  Jaisa, at one point, said, "I really have to think about this, it's serious to me."  After much consideration, Jaisa responded, "I opened up my home for a friend's wedding reception."  Jaisa was beating herself up that she couldn't think of anything else, but hosting a wedding reception at your house is a huge undertaking and a huge act of kindness.  Anne responded, "I'm always nice to people."  Anne works from home, so other than her cat and her roommate, she doesn't get to interact with people throughout the day, so the opportunities to perform a physical act of kindness, are fewer for her.   When Anne gave her answer, I realized that I have never, ever, heard her say an un-kind word about anyone, and she is always extremely friendly and nice.  Both Anne and Jaisa have devoted the past several years of their lives to raising their sons to be nice young men.  Raising nice young men and sending them out into the world, is an act of kindness for us all.

I asked them both if they had a personal mission statement, or could define their life's purpose.  Jaisa responded, "to be successful and to be a provider for my son's future."  Jaisa went on to say that her life exists for her child and her husband.  Even though her son is now a grown adult and on his own path in life, she still continues to plan for his future, and she wants to be able to leave him with a sense of security.

"To find my future, to find my happy, " Anne said, is her life's purpose.  Anne's focus has been on raising her sons, and on her son's happiness. Now that they're on their own path, she realizes it's time for her to find her own happiness.  She's going to allow herself to be open to possibilities.  "I want to be in a loving relationship," Anne said.

I asked Jaisa and Anne something about themselves which they would consider to be a success.  Jaisa said, "my marriage and my son.  I have the most amazing husband and the most amazing son."  I pushed my friend for even more, and she replied, "I made it through the school of hard knocks."  Jaisa has pushed herself and survived a less-than-ideal childhood, and has gone on to become one fine woman.  She carries herself with confidence and class.  Anne's answer; "my boys - hands down.  They are happy, successful, well-liked people,"  Anne loves it when she hears people saying positive things about her sons, not even knowing that she's their mother.

Thank you, beautiful ladies, for being in this project!

Day 345 - Dave

This is Dave.  He was parked right behind me and we were getting into our cars at the same time.  I took the opportunity to ask him to be in the project.

"I just got married," Dave said, is the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

I asked Dave if he had recently performed an act of kindness.  "Nothing's coming to mind," Dave said.  I reminded him that it was an act of kindness that he let me take his picture.

"Never settle for the mediocre," Dave said, is his personal mission statement.

I asked Dave something about himself he would consider to be a success.  Dave responded, "I'm a great foosball player."  I laughed and told Dave that had he answered air hockey, then I would have challenged him to a game.

Day 346 - Pete, Nathan and Grace

This is Pete (left), Nathan (center), and Grace (right.)  We met in the crosswalk as I was walking around, looking for a subject.  Knowing there are only a few days left, I pushed myself to take a group photo.  If you've been following along, you know how intimidated I am by group photos.  Ok, so I was secretly hoping one or two of the group would push one person into being the subject of the day, but all three agreed to let me take their picture, so I just had to make it work.

My new lens, a 50mm prime,  is so superior to the kit lenses I've been using.  Its superiority and performance actually bring with it even more challenges than before.  It's so powerful, on auto or any of the scene modes, it beautifully blurs the background. This is desired for a portrait, but not in a group photo.  If not set correctly, a group photo taken with the new lens will result in the person who is closest being in focus, but everyone else will be blurred.  The day before meeting these three, I had attended a very beginner photography class and the main take-away from the class, was that I need to push myself. (Yes, I know - pretty ridiculous that I finally took a photography class just days before the project ends.)  I need to stop being scared and intimidated and just experiment.  Having gained a little confidence from the class and knowing the challenges I was facing with the group and the lens, I was able to properly change settings and get a picture.  Yes, composition was lacking, but I was happy to get three people, in the frame, and have them each be in focus.  I chose this picture in particular, because Grace's genuine look of happiness on her face, makes me feel happy.  I don't think you can look at these three and not feel happiness and fun!

I asked them each the happiest thing happening in their lives right now.  Pete responded, "just everything in general.  I'm feeling less anxious."  Nathan, an artist, answered, "just painting."  Grace said, "I just moved into a new apartment."  Grace is happy she now has her own room!

I asked Pete something about himself which he would consider to be a success.  "work, my career," Pete answered.

I asked Nathan if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one on the spot.  "focus on art, keep doing art, never stop doing art," Nathan responded.

I asked Grace if she had recently performed an act of kindness.  Her recent act of kindness is that she gave a gift of a drawing she had made, to a person she didn't even know very well.  She also returned her roommate's act of kindness by making him a cup of tea.

Day 347 - Samir Gonzales

This is Samir Gonzales.

I asked Samir the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he replied, "that it's summer!"

Samir's recent act of kindness is that when he spotted someone breaking into a car in the parking lot, he got the license plate number of the suspects and called the police.  The police were able to apprehend the suspects a few blocks away!

I asked Samir if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one on the spot. Samir responded, "stay happy."

"I've gone through a lot of hard stuff this year and I've gotten through it," Samir responded, when I asked something about himself which he would consider to be a success.

Update on the Person from Day 2 - Trenton

This is Trenton.  He was day #2 in this project!! We just happened to run into each other!

After I had finished taking Samir's picture and as I was walking back to my car, I spotted a familiar looking person.  As we crossed each other in the crosswalk, I asked, "hey, what's your name?"  He responded back, "you took my picture!"  We stopped to visit and I couldn't help but notice the beautiful baby in his arms.  I asked Trenton if he had his baby when I had taken his picture.  Trenton said that he learned he was going to be a father right after he had been in the project.  It's been less than a year, but Trenton went from being a young man, to being a man and father.  It was awesome seeing him and his new little one, and I was struck at that moment, just how much things have changed this past year. Changed, yet, the same.  What a cool experience this has been!

Fatherhood looks great on Trenton, and I know he's an excellent Dad.

My husband was day #1 in this project, so Trenton was the first stranger I approached to ask if I could take their picture. Having had such a positive experience with Trenton, set me up with the confidence to carry on.  Trenton was nice and seemed interested in the project. Had I been rejected on the first attempt with a stranger, it's possible I may have bailed on this project before I even really got started.

Day 348 - Tamela

This is Tamela.  Tami is my friend's friend, but that makes her my friend too! We met up at Ecotrust's Sundown Concert Series, to see The Builders and the Butchers. The Builders and the Butchers put on another awesome show!

It's been close to 5 years since I've seen Tami.   It's sort of ironic that we re-connected at a concert together.  Tami is the the whole reason I discovered that I love attending shows/concerts by myself.  Years ago, when I couldn't find anyone who could go to a Lucero show with me, our mutual friend suggested I go alone.  She told me, "just go by yourself, Tami does all the time!"  What?  It's possible for a woman to go to a concert in Downtown Portland, all by her self!?!  I thought sure, Tami could to it.  Tami is Tami.  She oozes confidence and she's a totally uninhibited free spirit.  But, I didn't think attending a show alone was something I could ever consider myself doing.  My love for Lucero out-weighed my personal insecurities and I went to the show alone.  I haven't stopped since!  I've reached the point now, where I prefer going to shows solo.   I'm free to get lost in the music and the moment, without having to be responsible for making sure someone else is having a good time.  I will always be indebted to Tamela for showing me that it's perfectly acceptable for a woman to go out in this world and have fun all by herself!  It's ok to be a lone wolf.

I asked Tamela the happiest thing happening in her life and she first responded, "I love this question! I ask people this question all the time!"  Tami then answered, "my family is my happiest thing; my husband and my dog."

When I asked Tami if she had recently performed an act of kindness, she explained that she's intentionally tried to perform at least 1 act of kindness a day.  Most recently, she paid the toll for someone behind her.

"Spread love, hope, and the possibility that you can have anything you want," Tamela responded, when I asked if she had a personal mission statement or if she could think of one on-the-spot.  Tami is the type of person who forges her own path in life.  She's always had an entrepreneurial spirt.  She's never let fear of the unknown, or fear of failure, prevent her from doing what she wants.  If she has a business idea, she goes for it!  If she decides things aren't what she wants, she simply changes course.

I asked Tamela something about herself which she considers to be a success.  Tamela replied, "my ability to activate and motivate myself and others... I'm an activator!"  Tamela is a Take Shape for Life coach and she's enjoying the success of her clients and wants to help as many people as possible.

Thank you, Tamela for being in this project!

Day 349 - Dustin

This is Dustin. I just spotted him when I was walking down the street, in search of a subject.

"A new baby," Dustin answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Dustin works for a coffee company and his recent act of kindness is that he left two bags of coffee on the porch of his new neighbors!  A neighbor who brings you coffee is pretty much the best neighbor in the world.

"Laughter is the key to life," Dustin said, is his personal mission statement.

I asked Dustin something about himself which he would consider to be a success and he replied, "finding my wife."

Day 350 - Mary

This is Mary.  We met at the 3 Days of Aloha, Hawaiian Festival.

I asked Mary the happiest thing happening in her life right now, and she didn't say a word...she just moved her hands to her tummy, rubbed it, and then the source her beautiful glow became totally obvious to me.  Mary is expecting another baby!

Mary's recent act of kindness is that she added more time to a stranger's parking meter.  She also feels like she's been on the receiving end of other people's kindness because she's received so many gifts.

"Love, loving people," Mary said, when I asked if she had a personal mission statement or could think of one on the spot.  Mary's mission statement is influenced by her practice as a Yoga Teacher.

I asked Mary something about herself which she would consider to be a success. Mary said that her daughter is a success, but also that she had gone through some challenges but she was able to remain true to herself.  She didn't let the challenges change her.  "I'm still me."

Best wishes to you and your growing family, Mary!

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

• To be successful and to be a provider for my son's future
• To find my future, to find my happy.
• Never settle for the mediocre.
• Focus on art, keep doing art, never stop doing art.
• Stay happy.
• Spread love, hope, and the possibility that you can have anything you want
• Laughter is the key to life.
• Love, loving people.

Thank you to each and every subject in this project!  This wouldn't exist without your willingness to share a little bit of yourself with us.  Thank you!  Please don't hesitate to contact me if you would like for me to e-mail your picture to you.

Thank you for following along with me on this project.  Your interest and encouragement helped to carry me along when I questioned myself for even starting such an undertaking!

Have a great week!

365 Day People Picture Project - Week 45

Thank you for checking out week 45 of The 365 Day People Picture Project! I compare this point in the project to being around mile 21 in a Marathon.  For anyone looking on, it would seem that if a person has made it to mile 21 - the rest would be in the bag.  But, a lot can happen in those last 5.2 miles and in those last few miles, the battle that's happening in your head is now a full blown war.

By mile 21, you know if you can still hit your goal, or if you're so far off track that you now just need to concentrate on crossing that finish line.  At mile 21, one moment you're praising yourself for all of your training for the past several months, and then the next moment, you're cursing yourself for not training harder or smarter.  You fight to quiet the voices of self-doubt in your head and replace them with with a loop of positive mantras - I'm strong. I can do it.  I'm strong. I can do it.

So here I am, around mile 21.  I'm off track to meet my goal as far as showing improvement in the quality of the pictures I take - but I'm determined to cross that finish line anyway.  I could have done more.  I could have "trained" harder.  I could have studied more, practiced more, and learned more.  Just like in a marathon - it's time to hush those stupid negative voices and just finish strong.   For now, let's just concentrate on these last 5.2 miles ahead of us.  Let's just finish strong.  Finishing strong doesn't always mean that it's pretty, and quite often it hurts. Badly.  Finishing strong means giving it your entire heart. Finishing strong means you dig down deep to pull out more from yourself than you even knew you had left to give.  You might even just surprise yourself with what you can find when you dig deep.  Finish strong.

Day 309 - JL21

This is JL21.   I broke my own rule and decided to include a costumed street performer in the project.  But, there is a very good reason why I broke the rule.

Saturday night, I met up with my friend Anne and her friends.  We were having the kind of conversation I live for - one in which we talked about exploring and honoring creativity, doing what we love, finding who we love, and how all those seemingly random life coincidences one day align themselves to reveal that they weren't at all random, but meaningful occurrences orchestrated by the universe to lead us to exactly where we're meant to be.

Anne's friend, Jeannie, brought up "the Robot" during our conversation.  Jeannie knows the true identity of "the Robot," and although now I can't even remember how he was introduced into our conversation, he just fit the topic and he actually played a pretty key role in our beautiful conversation.  I didn't know "the Robot" who Jeannie was referring to, as I had never seen him before.

The next day, as I was driving to the library, I somehow turned down a completely different street than I normally take to go to the library.  I thought it was odd at the time because I get pretty set in my driving routes and routines.  I took a few turns in the attempt to get myself back on my normal route and all of the sudden --- THERE HE WAS!!!!  THE ROBOT!!!  Less than 18 hours after hearing about "the Robot," in a conversation about coincidences-not-being-coincidences, "the Robot" was right before my eyes!   I decided that even though it was against my rule, I just wanted and needed to include him in the project.

In the time that I had "interviewed" JL21, several people had stopped to take pictures with him.  He's quite the popular robot!

I asked JL21 the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he replied, "my relationship," and "I'm not overheating."   JL21 is a seriously determined robot.  I can imagine that on a hot day, his robot suit could get practically unbearable.

JL21 works for tips but his act of kindness is that he still lets people take pictures with him, even if they don't have money for a tip.  People love him!

"To live every moment," LJ21 replied, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement, or if he could think of one on the spot.  JL21 explained that living every moment is actually the art of slowing time and that it helps if you have a love for everything.

I asked JL21 one thing about himself which he would consider to be a success and he replied in a robot-like voice, "that I am a happy Robot."

If you would like to meet JL21, he can be found on Saturdays and Sundays  near Vancouver Farmers Market and Esther Short Park.

Day 310- Ian

This is Ian.  A person sitting alone at a patio table has officially become an invitation for an invitation...it's become pretty easy for me to invite myself to sit down with them to ask if I can take their picture.

"I'm moving to Canada in 2 months, " Ian replied, when I asked about the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

I asked Ian if he had recently performed an act of kindness.  He said that he does little things all the time, the most recent thing that came to mind is that he had just given a man a cigarette.

"Be nice to people, leave a little footprint, and spread happiness," Ian responded, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one on the spot.

I asked Ian one thing about himself which he would consider to be a success and he replied, "I'm still skateboarding at 28 years old."  I both kidded him and encouraged him, telling him my boss is 50+ and still skateboarding, and that hopefully he'll be able to say the same when he's his age.

Day 311 - Mercy

This is Mercy.

"I'm working on trying to buy my house," Mercy said, is the happiest thing happening in her life right now.

I asked Mercy if she had recently performed an act of kindness.  Mercy couldn't think of something specific, but she then explained that she works in customer service and she has the opportunity to be kind to people every day in the job she does.

"To be better and better," Mercy replied, when I asked if she had a personal mission statement or if she could think of one on the spot.

I asked Mercy one thing about herself which she would consider to be a success and she explained that in addition to her job, she also has a coaching business - Left Turn Coaching.   Mercy travels the country teaching and coaching Roller Derby Teams!

Good luck in the home-buying adventure, Mercy!

Day 312 - Marc

This is Marc.

In my search for a daily subject, I often pass by Portland Shoe Repair, in the Hollywood District, and it always looks like such a happening place!  I couldn't figure out why so many people would be at a shoe repair shop, so I finally decided to stop in and that's where I met Marc.  There were enough guys for a basketball team and I learned they were all family, just hanging out and helping the family member who was working at the time.

I asked Marc the happiest thing happening in his right now and he replied, "enjoying the summer."

Marc's recent act of kindness, one in which he often does, is that he gave a person a MAX (lightrail commuter train) ticket.

"Take pride in your work," Marc responded, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one on the spot.

I was a little surprised and impressed at Marc's next answer, given his age.  One thing about himself which Marc considers to be a success - is his perseverance.  Marc said he stays mentally strong and no matter what happens, he sees the silver lining.   Marc has a pretty wise outlook for someone just beginning his life.  With that mindset, he'll go far.

Day 313 - Emily

This is Emily.

"I'm dancing again," Emily replied, when I asked about the happiest thing happening in her life right now.  Emily is a dancer and when I asked if she danced a particular style, she explained that right now, her work is mainly Latin style dancing.

Emily was having a hard time recalling if she had recently performed an act of kindness.  I could tell she had been searching her memory when she finally stated that she had made pancakes for her boyfriend.

In this project, I've noticed that some people have a tendency to minimize the act of kindness they perform for their partners.  Seems we don't place enough value on the little things we do for our friends, family and loved ones.  Those little gestures are of huge significance because they set people up to do good things throughout the day.  My husband makes my coffee 96% of the time and I can't even begin to thank him enough.  This one little act of kindness is not so little for me...it's HUGE!

We just never know...a tiny little thing we do for someone could be the stone that starts the ripple of kindness.  We don't have to be millionaire philanthropists to make a difference. It can begin with a smile, or a pancake.

"To stay in a constant state of evolution," Emily replied, when I asked if she had a personal mission statement or if she could think of one on the spot.

I asked Emily one thing about herself which she would consider to be a success and she replied after careful consideration, "defining my own success."  Again, such an insightful answer from a person who's just beginning her life.  She pretty much nailed the whole point of this question and the reason I've been asking it.  How do you define success?  Specifically, how do you define success for your own life?

Day 314 - Andi Caroline

This is Andi.  He's another person I met by simply inviting myself to sit down with him at his patio table.  Thankfully, he didn't mind me interrupting his break from work.

When I asked Andi the happiest thing happening in his life right now, the first answer he gave was, "getting to walk to work every day."  He then revised it to be, "consciously simplifying my life."  Andi has made the decision to simplify his life. He doesn't want to waste time or money.  It was as though Andy had been reading my mind.  Just earlier I had been thinking that the majority of the money I waste, ironically, was wasted by trying to save money.  In addition to wasting money, I end up with closets or drawers full of stuff I just won't or can't use. I had decided it was time to do another exercise in simplifying and Andi was a great reminder the time is now.  Living simply can feel liberating and obviously for Andi, it's bringing him great happiness.

I asked Andi if he had recently performed an act of kindness and I could tell he was feeling a little stressed and disappointed because he couldn't recall a specific act of kindness.   He made a very good point that if he does an act of kindness, he doesn't write them down or log them mentally, so nothing was coming to mind.  I think that's the same for a lot of us.

"Live by your values,"  Andi replied, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one on the spot.

I asked Andi one thing about himself which he would consider to be a success and after considering the question again, he replied, "growing brussels sprouts."

As we visited, Andi kept circling back to the "act of kindness" question, determined to provide an answer.  When people start to feel bummed because they can't think of an answer, I normally remind them that they allowed me to take their picture.  For some reason, I don't know why I didn't tell this to Andi. I t Andi seemed so disappointed in himself.   He questioned if I was going to say that he hadn't performed an act of kindness.  It was really bothering Andi!  Poor guy!  I was so happy and relieved when Andi reached the conclusion on his own when he announced - I let you take my picture!  His inclusion in the project was his act of kindness!  Yes!  Andi gave me a huge amount of his kindness by letting me take his picture and share it with you.   After agreeing with Andi that it was an act of kindness and actually a pretty big one since a lot of people don't enjoy having their picture taken, he confessed he's one of those people. He's much more comfortable being behind the camera.  I have not doubt Andi performs acts of kindness on a daily basis - he's a nice person and his act of kindness, is his kindness.

Day 315 - Yesenia, Maria, and Angel

This is Yesenia (left), Maria (center), and Angel (right).

I headed down to Ester Short Park and the Vancouver Farmers Market in search of a subject.  The park was gated off for a wine festival, so I was restricted to the Farmers Market and the area around there.  It's difficult to explain, but I have the hardest time finding a subject in big events.

Not having any luck at the farmers market, I decided to just go sit on a bench outside the park and wait for someone.  I noticed a steady stream of sharply dressed men and women flowing by me.  The Hilton Hotel and Convention Center is just down the block from where I was sitting, so I gathered there must be an event happening.  I decided to ask Yesenia, Maria and Angel if I could take their picture for the project and they confirmed they were attending a Hispanic business conference.

Given there were three people, I asked them each only two questions.

I asked the happiest thing happening in their lives right now and they answered as follows: Yesenia - "the opportunity of being financially free."  Maria (as interpreted by Yesenia) - "in a few months, I will be financially free and without a boss."  Angel - "the opportunity to succeed."

I asked the the trio if they had a personal mission statement or if they could think of one on the spot, and I clarified the question by asking about their life's purpose.  Yesenia replied, "faith can get you to where you want to be."  Angel replied, "trying to better the life of hispanics and immigrants."  Maria responded, (with interpretation provided by Yesenia) "to help other people and to put God as a priority.  Thanks to him, we're free."  Yesenia went on to say that we have two choices in life. We can choose good or bad.  She wants people to know the good in life.  She wants people to uphold family values.

I was totally kicking myself after meeting Yesenia, Maria and Angel.  They were three beautiful and kind people and I could have better captured them had I had the right lens. I just had to make do. I almost didn't approach them, knowing I had on the completely wrong lens for a group picture, but I'm so glad I didn't let it stop me.  I'm so glad I got to meet them and I'm inspired by their genuine desire for good things and prosperity for the Hispanic community.  I just had to remind myself that limitations are only limitations if we allow them to be.  Sometimes, we just need to figure out a way to work around them.

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

• To live every moment.
• Be nice to people, leave a little footprint, and spread happiness.
• To be better and better.
• Take pride in your work.
• To stay in a constant state of evolution.
• Live by your values.
• Faith can get you to where you want to be.
• Trying to better the life of hispanics and immigrants.
• To help other people and to put God as a priority.

Thank you for following along on another week of this project.

If you've been a subject in this project - thank you for your kindness and your generosity in sharing yourself with us.  I appreciate you, and thank your for letting me take your picture. If you like your picture, please don't hesitate to send me an e-mail and I'd be happy to e-mail you a copy.

Have a successful week - however you define success!