365 More People Pictures - Week 40

Hello! This is week 40, of the 365 More People Pictures project.

If you'd like to follow along daily, my Instagram username is @missellanea.  (The blog is behind a couple weeks.)

Day 273 - Francisco

This is Francisco.  We met at the bus stop at the mall.

"It's Mother's Day and I love my Mom," Francisco answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.  Francisco had just finished work at the mall, and was on his way to pick up a gift and then see his Mom.

Francisco's recent act of kindness is that he feeds homeless people.

When I asked Francisco his life's purpose, he said, "I usually ask myself that everyday."  He thought about it a moment and then answered, "to keep walking forward."

Something about himself that he considers to be a success, is that he's the first in his family to graduate high school, and will likely be the first to go to college! When Francisco told me this, I got a mental picture of his very proud mother.  Proud not only of his accomplishment, but of the nice young man he's become.

Thank you, Francisco.

Day 274 - Mila

This is Mila.  She works at my favorite coffee shop in the Hollywood District, Nectar Cafe.  She's so sweet and nice, I can tell that some of the customers come in there as much to visit with Mila, as they do for the good coffee.

When I asked Mila the happiest thing happening in her life right now, she answered, "letting go of toxicity."  She's now turned to meditation, reading and learning about Buddhism.

Mila's recent act of kindness is that she reached out to a bunch of her lady friends to wish them a Happy Mother's day.

"To get to the point where I'm highly conscious, super aware of myself and my surroundings, to let myself be & let things be, and to be free of judgement," Mila answered, when I asked her life's purpose.   Mila then answered that she'd also like to be able to pass those traits on to her son as well.

When I asked Mila something about herself which she would consider to be a success, she answered, "sobriety...my journey."

I was so happy for  Mila, and hearing that she's started down the path of sobriety.  I'm excited for her re-birth, and the clarity with which she's chosen to live life.

Thank you, Mila.  You're a gem.  Wishing you the best.

Day 275 - Melissa

This is Melissa.  We met at the bus stop and we only had time for one question before her bus arrived.

"My beautiful baby boy," Melissa answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in her life right now.

Thank you, Melissa.

Day 276 - Austin

This is Austin. We met on the street.

"I just moved here," Austin answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.  He then added that he and his girlfriend just moved here, and he's happy about that.  Austin has been living a pretty cool life for the past few years.  He spent quite a while living in a tent in the forest. After tent-living for a while, he and his friends then built a house-like structure out of recycled tires and other repurposed items and he lived there for a while too.  Tyler then built a tiny house, loaded it up and moved it to Portland, where he's decided to settle with his girlfriend.

Austin is excited and nervous to find out how he does in a big city, after living such an isolated life for so long.

I asked Austin if he's performed an act of kindness, or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness. Austin said that someone gave him a slice of lemon cake the day before. He stopped in at a coffee shop, noticed and admired the cake, and the barista noticed him noticing the cake. She insisted he take a piece, her treat.

I first asked Austin his life's purpose.  He smiled, gave me this overwhelmed look, and answered, "you can't say those in words."  It was just too much at the moment and I understand how overwhelming the question is.  If someone had approached me, I would have said the same thing as Austin. I'm always amazed that people have been able to articulate an answer so quickly, concisely, and with meaning.

I rephrased the question, and asked Austin instead, if he has a personal mission statement.  He thought for a moment and then said that he thinks he has something appropriate.  Austin reached into his pocket, pulled out his field notes, thumbed through a few pages before stopping on a particular page and then saying, "to wax eloquently."  Austin does. He's the type of person you could talk with for hours.

"My beard," Austin said jokingly/not jokingly, when I asked something about himself which he would consider to be a success.  I laughed and told Austin that he was about the 3rd man in just a few weeks who answered that their beard is a success.  Austin put me on the spot.  He asked, of those men/beards, whose beard was the most successful?  I actually gave it some serious consideration. It's a difficult task, judging beards.  I explained that although his was the longest, I would have to give the award to a different guy/beard.  The other guy looked as though his beard was years in the making.  The other guy wasn't as naturally-gifted in beard-growing as Austin.  (Travis, from day 243, was the winner.)

Austin was happy to concede the win, realizing the other person had to work harder. But really, we should just celebrate all beards equally!

Thank you, Austin.  I hope Portland is good to you, and that you're happy here.

Day 277 - Brien

This is Brien.  We met at the bus stop.

When I asked Brien the happiest thing happening in his life right now, he said he couldn't answer the question.  Brien explained, "I'm not a happy person."  I said to Brien that we could do the other questions and then circle back to this one.  By the time we were finished, Brien had listed several things that made him feel happy. Among them, his work and his co-workers. "I work in a positive environment," Brien added.  We were at the bus stop by the Hollywood Burger Bar and it reminded Brien that their breakfasts and burgers make him happy.  "And coffee!"  Coffee makes Brien happy.  (I'm pretty sure if you cut me, I'd bleed coffee.  I know it's not good to drink that much, but when everything seems so wrong, a nice cup of coffee can make it all seem ok. I can relate with Brien on this one.)

"Staying alive, so I can find one later," Brien answered, when I asked his life's purpose.

When I asked Brien something about himself which he considers to be a success, he answered, "I haven't disappointed anyone gravely, that I know of."  What an excellent answer, and such a huge accomplishment.  If you think about it, how many of us can answer in this way?  How many of us have not disappointed someone?

I have to tell you something...one of the nicest things ever.  (besides the other person who did this too.)  Brien and I weren't quite finished with the questions when his bus arrived, but instead of cutting it short, he actually just passed on the bus and told me he'd catch the next one. He finished the "interview" and  we hung out talking for a little while longer.  I was so touched by this gesture.  For a person who says they're not a happy person, Brien really knows how to make other people feel happiness.

Thank you, Brien. Hoping you'll find a very long list of things that make you feel happy, and that happiness will truly find you.  Thank you.

Day 278 - Mono

This is Mono.  We met at the park and ride.

We had to talk over really loud traffic, and work though our language gap between us, but when I asked Mono the happiest thing happening in his life right now, he answered, "my work."  Mono is happy to be working.

Mono's recent act of kindness is that he let me take his picture.

"To be a Christian," Mono answered, when I asked his life's purpose.

Knowing we were working through our language challenges, I simplified the "success" question and instead just asked Mono something he's good at. "I'm nice to people, he answered."  Yes. Yes he is.

Thank you, Mono.

Day 279 - Tyler

This is Tyler.  He works at the convenience store I frequent.

I'm so addicted to black & white, but there are times I wish I could do better color.  Tyler is one of those instances.  He has the most beautiful ice eyes I've ever seen. (The second most beautiful eyes, next to my mother's.)  They're so pretty, I imagine it's actually sort of weird for him.  You can't help but to stare directly into his eyes when you meet him.  He's cool though, he knows his unique eyes are attention-getting and people can't help but to remark about them.

"I just moved here," Tyler answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now. "Everything's a new adventure," Tyler added.   Tyler and a few others loaded up in a "hippie van," made the journey across country, and then settled in Portland.  I think Portland was a great choice for Tyler. He feels like Portland.

Tyler's recent act of kindness is that he just gave someone some money.

"To interpret everything I experience," Tyler answered, when I asked his life's purpose.

"My attitude," Tyler said, is something about himself which he considers to be a success.

Thank you, Tyler!

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

• To keep walking forward.
• To get to the point where I'm highly conscious, super aware of myself and my surroundings, to let myself be & let things be, and to be free of judgement.
• To wax eloquently.
• Staying alive, so I can find one later.
• To be a Christian.
• To interpret everything I experience

Thank you for following along another week, and thank you to each and every subject in the project.

365 More People Pictures - Week 39

Hello! Thank you for stopping by to check out week 39 of the 365 More People Pictures project.

I've been taking a picture of a person, every single day, for the past 653 days. I'm not a photographer.  I completed my first 365 Day Challenge and loved it so much, I just couldn't stop.  I post each daily picture to Instagram and then post the summary of the week here on the blog.  I've fallen behind here on the blog and will catch up eventually, but if you'd like to follow along daily, my instagram username is @missellana.

Aunt Nancy

In real time, I just returned from a trip to my hometown to attend the funeral of my Aunt Nancy.  You met my Aunt Nancy in last year's project.

When I took this picture of my Aunt Nancy, I didn't know at the time, that it would be the very last time I saw her.  I'm so grateful for the moment we spent taking this picture and talking with one another.   Were it not for this project, I know I would have missed the opportunity to share in this special moment .  Our conversation would have been different, were it not for the questions in this project.

The most beautiful photo slide show played at Nancy's service.  Seeing her life, captured in photographs, reminded me of so many good times, and also introduced me to her life as a young woman, before some of my cousins were even born...her life, before our lives.

If I had known this was our last time together, I would have asked more questions. I would have hugged her a little tighter. I would have told her again how very much I loved her.  I would have thanked her for being our family's rock, our glue.  I would have told her that her's was a life that mattered.

Thank you,  Aunt Nancy.  Thank you for your love and strength.

Day 266 - R.J.

This is R.J.  We met at the bus stop.

We only had time for one question before R.J.'s " bus arrived.

"God is good," R.J. answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Thank you, R.J.

Day 267 - Tim

This is Tim. We met on the street.

When I asked Tim the happiest thing happening in his life right now, he answered, "leaving a bad job."  After talking with Tim for a few moments, I got the impression that he actually just left his job, as in, just minutes or hours earlier.  When he answered, it was as though the realization hit him that he was truly happy about his decision, even though it was probably a difficult and scary one to make.

Tim's recent act of kindness is that he's been helping his neighbor, an elderly woman, who had a broken foot.

Tim is an animator and he moved from LA to Portland.  When I asked his life's purpose, he answered, "to take my art and make it talk and move within a year."  We talked about animation prospects here in Portland and I'm hoping he'll land his dream job.  We joked that that these questions could help get him in interview mode.

"Being able to talk to anyone from the janitor to the president," Tim answered, when I asked something about himself which he considers to be a success.

You can check out Tim's work here.  One of my favorites is the set of adult Valentines!

Wishing you the best of luck, Tim.

Day 268 - Joshua

This is Joshua.  We met outside Hollywood Theater.  He was just so nice!

"Just this...today," Joshua answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Joshua's recent act of kindness is that he helped his co-workers, who weren't getting properly noticed, not only get recognition, but he also helped them to get promotions!

"To experience and enjoy life while we're here," Joshua answered, when I asked his life's purpose.

When I asked Joshua something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he responded, "really enjoying life all the time."

I felt Joshua's energy and enthusiasm in just the few moments we hung out. I got the feeling that he was actually really having fun in that moment, and after we finished, it felt like he was going to move onto the next thing and enjoy it completely.  He's an in-the-moment kinda guy.  Wish I could be more like that!

Thank you, Joshua.

Day 269 - Omar

This is Omar.  We met at Starbucks.  Again, I just invited myself to join him at his table after he agreed to let me take his picture for the project.  His girlfriend joined us soon after I sat down, and we must have visited and talked for a good half-hour or longer.  I learned so much from them both, nearly all of which I can't/won't share due to Omar's circumstances.

"My family is safe," Omar answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.  Omar is currently in the U.S. as a student, but the rest of his family is still in Iraq.  Omar is a poet and public figure on youtube, which is part of the reason he was forced to flee from Iraq.

Omar's recent act of kindness is that he helped his brother to get married.

"To help people, be nice, and do something good," Omar answered, when I asked his life's purpose.

Thank you for being in this project, Omar.  Wishing you success and peace.

Day 270 - Nickolaus

This is Nickolaus.  We met on the street.  I kinda love Nickolaus' unicorn hair do.

The happiest thing happening in Nickolaus' life is that he had just made travel plans to visit friends.

Nickolaus' recent act of kindness is that he let me take his picture. On the receiving end, his employer is letting him take the time off to travel to visit his friends.

"To travel and see as much of this planet as I can while I'm here, and to experience as much as I can while I'm here," Nickolaus answered, when I asked his life's purpose.

When I asked Nicholas something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he was having a hard time answering.  He pointed out the exact reason why I ask this question.  Nickolaus explained that he spends so much time being hard on himself that it was hard for him to identify something positive.  We joked about his beard and his hair style being a success, but I pushed for an answer, citing the very same reason he was having trouble thinking of one.  After much consideration, Nickolaus replied, "I'm an excellent house-keeper!"  Nickolaus said that his kitchen floor, sink and counters are spotless!

Thank you, Nickolaus.

Day 271 - Karmella and Gangsta

This is Karmella and Gangsta.  Is it just me, or does Gangsta have the cutest little old man face ever?

Karmella was on  her way to class, so we only had time for one question.

"To make an impact," Karmella said, when I asked her life's purpose.

Thank you, Karmella.

Day 272 - Colin

This is Colin.  We met at the park in downtown Vancouver.

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

Colin was recently on the receiving end of an act of kindness when he discovered that his lunch tab had been paid for, secretly,  by a friend he had bumped into at the restaurant.

"To do good or to do better, and to make sure the next day is better than the last," Colin answered, when I asked his life's purpose/personal mission statement.

When I asked Colin something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered that it was his job as a cook.  Some of his customers compliment him and tell him they come in to eat, specifically on days they know he's working.

I enjoyed talking with Colin.  We continued talking long after we were finished with the questions.  Again, I was just so thankful to this project for providing me with opportunities to talk with people who I would have otherwise never had the opportunity to meet.  Each person has touched my life in some way.

Thank you, Colin.

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

• God is good
• To take my art and make it talk and move within a year.
• To experience and enjoy life while we're here.
• To help people, be nice, and do something good
• To travel and see as much of this planet as I can while I'm here, and to experience as much as I can while I'm here.
• To make an impact.
• To do good or to do better, and to make sure the next day is better than the last.

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

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 37

Hello and thank you for stopping by to check out week 37 of the 365 More People Pictures project. Happy Mother's Day to everyone who nurtures.  And Mom, thank you for being the best mom.  I didn't make it easy for you.  I love you, and appreciate everything you do, and all that you are.

Day 252 - Laura

This is Laura. We met at the park.

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

When I asked Laura if she's recently performed an act of kindness or if she's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness, she explained she was actually the recipient of an act of kindness right then.  Her Mother-in-Law was watching her youngest so she was able to be out for a while.

"To be a Mom...I think I knew that since I was little," Laura answered, when I asked her life's purpose.

When I asked Laura something about herself which she would consider to be a success, she said that she didn't really feel like she was there yet.  "I feel like I'm not done with school, not working...I'm just a Mom."

I've been thinking about Laura, and noticed that we have a tendency, when identifying our successes, to consider only past or completed achievements.  Some of our greatest successes are actually happening in the present.  A success isn't always a past accomplishment. Some of our greatest successes are simply the way we live currently and that which we're currently striving to achieve.  Finishing a marathon isn't so much about race day when you set out to do 26.2 miles and cross that finish line - it's about the months of training that you put in before that day.  The success isn't that you completed 26.2 miles, crossed a finish line and earned a medal.  Race day is more like thousands of people getting together in celebration of their months and months of successful training.  We can place so much value on crossing the finish line, that we  forget to celebrate that which got us to the start line.

Thank you, Laura.  You're a living success. You're a Mom.

Day 253 - Andy

This is Andy.  We met on the street. I could tell he was in a hurry, but he stopped to let me take his picture and quickly answer the questions.

"My kids," Andy said, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Andy's recent act of kindness was that he reached out to a relative.

"Fulfillment," Andy answered, when I asked his life's purpose.

When I asked Andy something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered, "balance."

Thank you, Andy.

Day 254 - John

This is John.  We met walking down the street.

The happiest thing happening in John's life right now is that he's getting married in September.

John's recent act of kindness is that he mowed and aerated his elderly neighbor's lawn.  John is about the sweetest neighbor ever.  I wish all elders could have a next door neighbor as nice as John.

"To help others," John answered, when I asked his life's purpose.  John is currently going to school to become a doctor.  A Carhartt-wearing, lawn-aerating, neighborly doctor is pretty much the best kind of doctor in the world.  I think John is going on to do great things and help many people.

"My ability to put others at ease," John answered, when I asked something about himself which he would consider to be a success.

Thank you, John.  Best wishes to you.

Day 255 - Justine

This is Justine.   We met walking down the street. She looked a little lost, but I found her.

The happiest thing happening in her life right now is her new job being a Nanny for a family she really likes and enjoys.

Justine's recent act of kindness is that she helped her overwhelmed roommate by doing her dishes. Justine knows how busy her roommate is currently, and she's been doing extra chores to help her roommate however she can. "It's small," Justine minimized.  But to her roomie, it's probably a huge relief!

"I'm just figuring myself out," Justine answered, when I asked her life's purpose or personal mission statement.  Like Justine, I think we're all just trying to figure ourselves out.

"I made it here from New Jersey," Justine answered, when I asked something about herself which she would consider to be a success.  Have you noticed how many people we've met who have just completely uprooted and started a brand new life for themselves?  It takes a grand sense of adventure and faith to make such a bold move.  I'm inspired by Justine and everyone like her.

After we were finished, I asked Justine if she was lost, explaining she appeared to have been looking for something when I approached her.  She said she was looking for the shoe repair shop.     I walk by there every day and two of the guys have been subjects in this project, so I knew exactly where she wanted to go.  I walked with Justine down to the shop where we said our good-byes and well-wishes.

Thank you, Justine.

Day 256 - Johnny D.

This is Johnny D.  we met at Mt. Tabor Park.

I regretted not having a recorder.  Johnny D's answers were all so poetic, but there was no way I could keep up to him with just a pen and journal.  He was special, and so articulate, I wish I could have done a better job of capturing his words.

"Music - inspirational music with great friends," Johnny D. said, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

When I asked Johnny D. if he's recently performed an act of kindness, he answered, "I try to practice intentional and random acts of kindness."  Johnny D. explained that he's a "professional philanthropist, environmentalist, and justice activist."  Johny D.'s life's work, his job, is actually performing kindness.   "I'm just trying to make the world a better place," Johnny D. added.  Wow!

"To lovingly and ingeniously activate people to consciously celebrate, and make the world a better place through play,"  Johnny D. said, is his personal mission statement.

When I asked Johnny D. something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered, "the ability to balance wonderful extremes: work & play, discipline & improvisation, focus and release, and being able to dance with equipoise between the two."

Johnny D. is the kind of person with whom you just want to talk with for hours and hours.

Thank you for all you do, Johnny D.  Thank you.

Day 257 - Patrick

This is Patrick.

"Meeting my goal physique," Patrick answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Patrick was recently on the receiving end of an act of kindness when the person in line ahead of him at a coffee shop, bought his coffee.

"Travel," Patrick said, is his life's purpose.

Something about himself which he considers to be a success, is that he graduated college in 4 years.

Thank you, Patrick.

Day 258 - Buggsy and Ozzy.

This is Gary, but his friends call him Buggsy.  He was out walking his dog when we met.  His dog, I would guess to be a Bichon Frise, is named Ozzy. "After Ozzy Osbourne," Buggsy said. Buggsy is one of the few people who actually talked to me first.  He said hello as I walked near his direction, remarked about my camera and told me I would get lots of great pictures in the park.  Instead of continuing onto the park which is where I was headed when I met Buggsy and Ozzy, I explained the project and asked Buggsy if I could take his picture.  Buggsy was just an absolutely charming person.

"Being able to walk my dog, my health, and being able to say hi to people like you," Buggsy answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

When I asked Buggsy if he's recently performed an act of kindness or been on the receiving end of kindness, he said that he enjoys meeting people.  He often walks downtown near the park and talks with homeless people. He tries to help them in ways that will keep them healthy and moving in a direction to help their lifestyle.  Buggsy said that he's aware he can't change their lifestyle, but he can help provide direction.

Buggsy then added that on the receiving end, he receives love and kindness from people.  As we were talking, Buggsy said hello to every person who walked by.  I gathered that he knew several people, and those he didn't, he greeted anyway, just as he had greeted me.  Buggsy gives so much kindness, if he receives back only a fraction of all that he gives, he would be a very rich man.  Rich in love and kindness.

"To be honest, fair and kind. I've done that in business and throughout my life in general," Buggsy said, when I asked his life's purpose.

When I asked Buggsy something about himself which he considers to be a success, he dismissed success in business and said that his greatest success was his marriage of 44 years. His wife recently passed away, and now Buggsy and Ozzy are now doing their best to continue on without her.

Buggsy is another great and kind soul and I'm so glad this project has led me to meet so many beautiful people.  When we were finished, we said goodbye with a handshake and we both left with tears in our eyes. Well, I know I had tears in my eyes and I'm pretty sure Buggsy did too.  He repeatedly thanked me for visiting with him and taking his picture.  There was nothing I could say to make him realize that it was I who was grateful and thankful for him.

Thank you, Buggsy.  Thank you for being you.

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

• To be a Mom
• Fulfillment.
• To help others.
• I'm just figuring myself out.
• To lovingly and ingeniously activate people to consciously celebrate, and make the world a better place through play.
• Travel.
• To be honest, fair and kind.

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

365 More People Pictures - Week 36

Hello! This is week 36 of the 365 More People Pictures project. These are the subjects from a couple of weeks ago.  In real-time, I just wrapped up week 38.  If you'd like to follow along daily, my Instagram username is @missellanea.

Day 245 - Clement

This is Clement. We met at the bus.

Recently, I've been asking subjects to give me a serious look.  If I can't catch people in a genuine laugh or smile, then I've been aiming for something more pensive.  Clement was quite warm and friendly.  I didn't even have to ask him to give ma serious look a "serious" look. When it came time for the photos, Clement naturally just defaulted to this serious, stoic look and when I look at this picture, I see a determined person.

"I'm happy to work...I like work," Clement answered when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

We had a bit of a language barrier to overcome. When I asked Clement if he's recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness, he asked me to explain. I re-phrased the question and instead asked if he's recently done anything nice for anyone, or if anyone has been nice to him. A beautiful smile came across is face when he said that he had just visited his Mom in Mexico.

When I asked Clement his life's purpose, we again worked through our language challenge.  At first I thought I may have made things even more confusing in my second attempt at the question when I asked Clement, "why are you here...in life?"  "I'm here to work...I want to have a good life," Clement answered.  It doesn't matter in what language it's said, we all desire happiness and a good life.  The puzzling part, is learning how to define "good".

Thank you, Clement.  Wishing you a good life.

Day 246 - Erika

This is Erika.  We also met at the bus during quite a rain storm.

"Improved health," Erika answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in her life right now.

When I asked Erika if she's recently performed an act of kindness or if she's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness, she replied, "both...I try to practice daily."

"To help other people, women in particular," Erika said, is her life's purpose.

I asked Erika something about herself which she would consider to be a success and she replied, "I have a 19-year-old who is kind, sweet and giving."

Thank you, Erika.

Day 247 - Rob

"Having the summer off and doing a lot of hiking," Rob said, is the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

When I asked Rob if he's recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness, he explained that he makes that his lifestyle - he tries to make kindness happen as much as he can.

"I know it sounds cliché or stupid, but a good rule of thumb is to always treat everyone you encounter, as a person," Rob answered, when I asked if he has a personal mission statement. I told Rob it wasn't at all cliché.  It's quite perfect.

"I'm happy that I'm a compassionate person," Rob answered, when I asked something about himself which he would consider to be a success.

Thank you, Rob.

Day 248 - Novalicious

This is Novalicious.  We met on the street.

"I'm in the most amazing, caring relationship," Novalicious answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in her life right now. Novalicious went on to add that she's also happy because her work is great, her kitties are healthy, and her parents are healthy.

Novalicious' recent act of kindness is that she bought a meal for a homeless person she met around the food carts.

When I asked Novalicious her life's purpose, she answered, "to love and be kind and to wish everybody happiness, and when I'm not shown that kindness, to be understanding." Novalicious has it all figured out and I'm striving to be more like her.

I asked Novalicious something about herself which she would consider to be a success and she answered, "I survived!"

Thank you, Novalicious!

Day 249 - Katrina

This is Katrina.  We met at the bus stop.

"I'm getting my girls back," Katrina answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in her life right now.

When I asked Katrina if she's recently performed an act of kindness or if she's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness, she explained that she's currently living in a program for women who are in the process of regaining custody of their children.

There are times when I've kept the confidence of the subjects I've met because I've felt like it was a special and personal interaction between us. In Katrina's situation, her story is a happy one and it's ok to share a little.

I wondered why Katrina had lost her children.  Knowing she was in the process of regaining custody, I read between the lines and gathered that Katrina may have battled addiction and must have made some positive life changes.  I asked if she was now clean & sober and she confirmed she was.  I was so touched by Katrina, her sheer love for her kids, and her excitement that she would soon be reunited with them.  I couldn't hold back the tears, but they were happy tears.  I was so happy for Katrina and the changes she's made in her life.  It's more like she's reclaiming her true self, rather than starting new.

"To be a good Mom to my kids, and to help others," Katrina answered, when I asked her life's purpose."  "First, I have to help myself," Katrina added, knowing that taking care of her own self, was critical for everything she's about to do.

When I asked Katrina something about herself which she would consider to be a success, she answered, "my recovery."

Thank you, Katrina.  Wishing you and your family success, love and happiness. You can do it!

Day 250 - Stephen & Michael

This is Stephen (left) and Michael (right).

I asked Stephen the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he answered, "money!"  He jokingly added that he was buying his happiness.  Stephen recently came into some money and he shared that he's been having fun spending and indulging, and perhaps going a little wild.  I couldn't help myself.  I may have accidentally mom'd Stephen.  Ok, I totally mom'd Stephen and reminded/lectured him to also be smart with his newfound money!  I know, I know.  I couldn't help it.  Luckily, he was a very good sport and we all laughed about my mom moment.

I asked Michael if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness and he answered that Stephen had just bought him a bike!  Joking aside, I thought it was pretty cool for Stephen to treat his friends to such nice gifts.

"To be awesome," Stephen said, when I asked his life's purpose.  The three of us laughed at Stephen's answer.

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

Thank you, Stephen & Michael.

Day 251 - Cat

This is Cat.  We met at the mall.

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

"I try to do nice things," Cat answered, when I asked if she's recently performed an act of kindness or if she's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness.

Cat's life's purpose, "making people look and feel good."  I had guessed Cat was either a tattoo artist or hair stylist because of her awesome style.  Her answer confirmed that she's a hair stylist.  I love that Cat places value on her profession and that she sees the worth of service that she's providing.  When we're confident in the way we look, that confidence spills over and we really do feel better.

"I recently lost 40 pounds," Cat answered, when I asked something about herself which she considers to be a success.  Nice work!

Thank you, Cat!

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

• I'm here to work...I want to have a good life.
• To help other people, women in particular.
• Always treat everyone you encounter, as a person.
• To love and be kind and to wish everybody happiness, and when I'm not shown that kindness, to be understanding.
• To be a good Mom to my kids, and to help others.
• To be awesome.
• Making people look and feel good.

Thank you for following along on this project!  Sometimes I just get completely overwhelmed when I think about all of the incredibly kind and amazing people we've met. It feels like I'm not doing enough to convey just how beautiful people are.  I feel like I can't even find the right words to express how this has impacted me.  I feel like this has been a privilege and I'm ruining it by being an inferior writer.  At the very least, I just hope that maybe by reading about the people in this project, it will inspire you to be curious and visit with people you may have otherwise just let pass you by.

Thanks again.

365 More People Pictures - Week 35

Hi! These are the subjects from week 35 of the 365 More People Pictures project.

Day 238 - Sandy

This is Sandy.   We met at the park, where he was out walking his dog, Henry.  Actually, I sort of approached Sandy and Henry at the very moment Henry was doing his doggy business, and for that reason, I don't think Henry was all that pleased with me.

"Henry went outside today," Sandy answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.  I gathered from Sandy's statement that Henry is in training.

Sandy's recent act of kindness is that he purchased shaving cream so that his daughter could swirl-color Easter eggs. (I'm running behind. This was Easter.)

"I'm really devoted to my wife and daughter," Sandy answered, when I asked his life's purpose.

When I asked Sandy something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered, "I taught Henry how to go outside."

Thank you, Sandy & Henry.

Day 239 - Erik.

This is Erik.  We met at a restaurant where my friends had taken me for my birthday dinner. Erik was our server.

The happiest thing happening in his life right now is spending time with his 9 year old daughter.

When I asked Erik 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, "my whole life I've been on the giving end."  Erik then explained that he was on the receiving end of an act of kindness when he got this new job.

"To be a good example for my kids," Erik answered, when I asked his life's purpose.

When I asked Erik something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered that he played in the NFL for 9 years. If he looked familiar to you, you were right!  This is Erik Wilhelm, quarterback.   Erik played for OSU and was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals.  He then went on to play for the Phoenix Cardinals and NY Jets!  You can learn more about Erik's football career here.  But, he's so nice, you could probably just ask him about it in person at The Top Shelf in Vancouver!

I thought it was pretty cool that a former NFL player was just an awesome, humble man who just wants to be a good influence for his kids.

I just never know who I'm going to meet in this project!

Thank you, Erik!

Day 240 - Alan

This is Alan.  We met at the bus stop. Unfortunately, our interaction was quite brief because the bus arrived just as we got started.

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

It turned out that Alan is an acquaintance of one of my co-workers!  I love it when that happens!

Thank you, Alan.

Day 241 - Brenden

This is Brenden.  We met on the street.  Does this picture make you think of the "Ponyboy" movie picture too? (The brunette Ponyboy.)

The happiest thing happening in Brenden's life right now was that he and his girlfriend just moved into their first place.  For Brenden, it's actually the first time that he's had a residence to call his own.  He's been living on his own since High School, but he's been staying on friend's couches and now he's happy to have his very own place.

I asked Brenden if he's recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness and he explained that he was recently on the receiving end of an act of kindness  when his boss gave him sort of a gift/bonus of $100 so that he could go to Seattle.  Brenden had never been to Seattle and his boss knew that Brenden really couldn't afford to go, so he gave him an extra $100.  Brenden loved seeing Seattle for the first time!

"To make people laugh," Brenden answered, when I asked his life's purpose.  Brenden has aspirations to be a comedian.  It was tough choosing a picture to show you.  Given Brenden's aspirations in comedy, I thought I should share one of the more light-hearted, laughing pictures, but I chose this one because he did a great squinch and I just felt there was a lot more to Brenden.  This picture shows his depth.  And, I think it does remind me of Ponyboy.

"The fact that I'm still laughing," Brenden answered, when I asked something about himself which he would consider to be a success.  Life hasn't been easy for Brenden, but not only is he still standing and laughing, but his life's purpose is to give laughter to others as well.

Thank you, Brenden.  Wishing you luck and success!

Day 242 - Tucker

This is Tucker.  This was another short, too short, interaction as his bus arrived after the very first question I asked.

"I just got accepted into college," Tucker answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Thank you, Tucker!

Day 243 - Travis

This is Travis. We met on the street.

"I have a girlfriend," Travis answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Travis had just been on the receiving end of an act of kindness just moments before we met.  He was riding his bike and accidentally dropped his seat cover which he had removed and placed in his pack.  Another cyclist picked it up, chased after Travis,  and returned the seat cover.

"Be kind," Travis answered, when I asked his life's purpose.

When I asked Travis something about himself which he would consider to be a success, I read a look of complete satisfaction come across his face.  He reached up his hands, petted his beard and answered with a grin, "this beard."  Yes, that is a successful beard, even by Portland standards.

Thank you, Travis!

Day 244 -  Chris

This is Chris.  We met at the convenience store where he was working. Chris saved the project which was 8 minutes away from failure!

This was not a good day.  An earlier trip to the dentist left me in so much pain that I didn't feel like going out in search of a subject. I decided that my husband would be the person of the day.  We only had a few minutes minutes for me to take his picture before he had to leave for work. Already pressed for time, my camera started doing some weird stuff I had never seen it do!  I've still only scratched the surface on how to operate my new camera and because it's several steps up from my first camera, it's much easier to really screw things up, especially because I'm still learning!  I wasted several of our few short minutes together, trying to figure out what I had done wrong with the camera settings.  I finally managed to get a picture.

I didn't sit down to process the picture and post it on instagram until after 11:00 pm.  When I saw the condition of the picture, I was pretty upset that I couldn't even take a decent picture of my own husband.  It was awful...probably the most unflattering photo of him ever! I've seriously taken better pictures of him when he's been sound asleep with the dog, and the dog is practically sleeping on my husband's head and smooshing his face into the pillow. (Any picture where a dog is asleep on another person's head is a good picture.)   I knew my husband would eventually get over me posting such a horrible picture, but I just couldn't do that to him. It would have been embarrassing for us both.

Still in terrible pain, I got dressed and headed for the convenience store nearest my house in search of a new subject.   It seemed like the only people there were under-age kids and with a few exceptions, everyone in the project has been an adult.  I asked the cashier if I could take his picture for the project, but he was beyond camera shy.  No amount of encouragement on my part, could convince him to let me take his picture. He would have made for a great subject, but he wasn't having any of it. I totally understand that some people don't want to be on the internet and I completely respect that and I don't push it when I sense that Ive met someone who is opposed to social media/internet. I just got the sense this guy was lacking confidence and that with enough encouragement, he would let me take his picture. Ultimately, I was hoping I'd take a great picture of him and it would help to boost his self-esteem.  I even explained that the fate of the entire project was resting on his portrait, but he declined.

I was hurting so much, I felt like I only had two options. End the project, or post the awful picture of my husband.  I decided to suck it up and consider a 3rd option...I could race to the other nearest convenience store and hope there would be someone there.  So, I did it!  I made it to the other store with less than 10 minutes before midnight.  I rushed through the door of the store, in pain and probably looking desperate. I quickly explained to the cashier that I only had a few minutes to take a picture of a person before midnight, for my 365 Day project. I asked Chris he would let me take his picture and he agreed, and he did so with a smile and kindness! I was so happy to have met Chris!

"Spending time with my son," Chris answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Chris' recent act of kindness is that he babysat 7 kids!  A friend of his was going into the hospital to deliver a baby and Chris watched her other children and the children of those close to her so that they could also go and support her during her delivery.  See, he is a great guy!

"To try to uphold my values and morals," Chris answered, when I asked his life's purpose.

When I asked Chris something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered, "my time working here."

Thank you, Chris!  Thank you for your kindness and for saving the project.  You are awesome!

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

• I'm really devoted to my wife and daughter.
• To be a good example for my kids.
• To make people laugh.
• Be kind.
• To try to uphold my values and morals.

Thank you!

365 More People Pictures - Week 33

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

Day 224 - Oliver & Jaka

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wishing you both love and success!

Thank you.

Day 225 - Deontae

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

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

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

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

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

Wishing you great luck, Deontae!

Day 226 - Aaron

This is Aaron.  We met on the street.

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

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

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

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

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

Day 227 - Lou

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 228 - Courtney

This is Courtney.  We met at Starbucks.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 229 - Scott

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Scott!  Good luck!

Day 230 - John 

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you, John!  Good luck!

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

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

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

And thank you for following along!

Have a great week!

365 More People Pictures - Week 30

Hello! Thank you for reading week 30 of The 365 More People Pictures project.   I'll soon post week 31, which are the subjects from this past week, and then we're officially caught up!  I've continued taking a picture of a person every day but I managed to let myself get behind in the blog posts.  If you'd like to follow along daily, my Instagram username is @missellanea.

Day 203 - Lillie

This is Lillie.  We met outside of Mod Haus in downtown Vancouver.  You may remember Mod Haus.  Lynn, the owner, was day 119 of my first project.  It's such a great shop!  When you're in downtown Vancouver, be sure to stop in and say hello to these ladies!  They have great style and they'll help those of us who need a little help finding our own style.

The happiest thing happening in Lillie's life right now is that she's an honors student and almost finished with her Associates degree.  Lillie is studying Japanese.  It was both funny and impressive because several times she naturally spoke in Japanese instead of English.   She's clearly comfortable and fluent in the language.

As soon as Lillie got in front of the camera, it was obvious she's done some modeling.  I've said it before, but modeling takes a special skill  and we often underestimate the amount of talent required of models.  Models truly have something special and unique and even my amateur/beginner eye can immediately spot when someone has modeling experience.  I can't articulate it properly and I was going to say that when a model is in front of  your camera, you can tell the exact moment when they turn their model on.  As I was typing the words, I was struck with the thought that it's more like models turn themselves off.  They momentarily disconnect from themselves, take on a new persona, and become this pliable form who is eager to create cool images with a photographer.   I'm still so new and learning, so I haven't really taken full advantage of the few opportunities I've had with the models I've accidentally met in this project.  I've been so awestruck as I watch them transform in front of my very eyes.  Lillie has that something special.

Lillie's recent act of kindness also relates to her modeling as she's recently modeled for a few local shops for free, and in return, a few of her photographer friends have photographed her which is helping her build her portfolio.  Everyone wins.

When I asked Lillie her life's purpose, she responded:  "To grow as a human being, to become more self-aware, to learn from others and hopefully teach something along the way."  Lillie then added, "traveling wouldn't hurt either!"

"I try to be as amiable as I can be...my personality is a success," Lillie answered, when I asked something about herself which she would consider to be a success.  Indeed.  Lillie was so sweet!

Wishing you lots of success with everything you set out to do, Lillie!  Thank you!

Day 204 - Aaron

This is Aaron.  We met on the street.  The happiest thing happening in Aaron's life right now is his job.

Aaron's recent act of kindness is that he bought food for some homeless people.

When I asked Aaron if he has a personal mission statement or life's purpose, he said that he has a quote he likes to live by:  "What do you do when no one is looking?"

"I have a large friend base from all walks of life," Aaron answered, when I asked him something about himself which he would consider to be a success.

Thank you, Aaron.

Day 205 - Zach

This is Zach.

The happiest thing happening in his life right now is that he just moved in with his girlfriend.

I asked Zach if he's recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness. On the receiving side, Zach's best friend helped him move.  On the giving side,  Zach does volunteer work at a soup kitchen.

"Learn something new every day," Zach answered, when I asked if he has a personal mission statement or life's purpose.

When I asked Zach something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered, "I have a lot of friends."

Thank you, Zach.

Day 206 -  Maurice

This is Maurice.  He was two people ahead of me while we were in line at Starbucks.  I couldn't hear the conversation but Maurice, the barista, and the person in front of me were all laughing about something.  When I looked up to see Maurice, he had the warmest, most friendly smile I've seen in a while.  I didn't want to bother him, but I just couldn't resist asking Maurice if I could take his picture for the project.

"I'm in the process of writing a book," Maurice answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

When I asked Maurice if he's recently performed an act of kindness, or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness, he thought for a while and then jokingly explained, "I live the life of a hermit."  Maurice is working on his book and he said he doesn't get out much, other than his Starbucks breaks.  However, he said that his daughter visited last month and while she was in town, she did all kinds of nice things to help Maurice.

I asked Maurice his life's purpose and he answered, "right now...just to get that book finished."  Maurice has been working on the book for 5 years, but paused when his wife passed away, and then again when he was dealing with health problems.  I asked when he anticipates its completion.  Maurice thinks he'll finish in 6 months.  Maurice said he should probably say that more often, so that it will become reality.  I agreed and explained it's part of the reason I ask some of the questions I do.  The more we talk of something, the closer we are to making it happen.

When I asked Maurice something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he laughed and said that he would have to go back to his youth.  "I was chosen to be on a particularly good Rugby team," Maurice said.  I think Maurice has many more successes in addition to his Rugby career, and I'm wishing him good luck that he will soon add "finished writing a book," to his list of successes.

Thank you, Maurice!  May the words flow freely and easily for you,  and in the perfect order.

Day 207 - John

This is John.  We met on the street.

"Life itself," John answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.  John explained that he's made a lot of changes in the past few months and he's feeling good about things.

I asked John if he's recently performed an act of kindness and he said that he tries to do little things every day.  Doing things for others makes him feel better than being on the receiving end of kindness.

John's life's purpose:  "Constant forward movement.  Constant forward progression."

When I asked John something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he said that it was the way he was able to meet a person and connect with them.

Thank you, John!

Day 208 - Matthew

This is Matthew.  We met at the bus stop.

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

Matthew's recent act of kindness is that he helped a man in a motorized wheel chair who had become stuck as he was trying to make it over a curb.

"To love," Matthew answered, is his life's purpose.

When I asked Matthew something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered, "my happiness, because I'm in charge of it."

Thank you, Matthew.

Day 209 - Bruce

This is Bruce.  We met at the park along the Columbia river on a beautifully sunny day.

"Getting to know who God really is," Bruce answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.  Bruce has endured a few difficulties the past few years.  He broke and seriously injured his leg, was divorced, and now his injured leg is causing more serious problems again.  Through it all, Bruce has found comfort and strength in faith in God.

When I asked Bruce if he's performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of kindness, he answered, "both."  Bruce was a very shy person and didn't think he had much to offer, other than his skills in construction, but now he considers himself to be an "encourager."  When he was working, before his injury, he would help build and re-build in distressed areas and he would like to return to that some day when he's healed again.  "We are so valuable, we don't even understand it," Bruce said, when he spoke of our purpose to be used by God to contribute to something bigger. He's also been on the receiving end of kindness, finding support in his new group of friends he's met through Church.

"To love and help other people," Bruce answered, when I asked his life's purpose.

I asked Bruce something about himself which he considered to be a success and he answered that he was a successful builder, he's raised 4 kids, and he's maintained a positive attitude.

Bruce and I continued to visit for quite a while and I was so glad to have met him that day.

Thank you, Bruce.

Here's the summary of the personal mission statements and life's purposes of the subjects from week 30:

• To grow as a human being, to become more self-aware, to learn from others and hopefully teach something along the way.
• What do you do when no one is looking?
• Learn something new every day
• right now...just to get that book finished."
• To love
• To love and help other people
• Constant forward movement.  Constant forward progression

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

365 More People Pictures - Week 28

Hello! Thank you for checking out week 28 of the 365 More People Pictures project.  I've been running a little behind in posting, but no worries...I'm still on track for taking a picture every single day.  If you'd like to follow along daily, my Instagram username is @missellanea .

Day 189 - Angela

This is Angela.

The happiest thing happening in her life right now: "is that everybody in my family is healthy and moving forward."

I asked Angela if she's recently performed an act of kindness or if she's been on the receiving end of kindness and she said that she's on the receiving end of lots of kindness and she hopes she's on the giving end as well.

"To strive to find balance and to realize that whatever you're going through is just a moment in time," Angela answered, when I asked if she has a personal mission statement or life's purpose.   Angela had said a few things that lead me to believe she had just gone through a tough situation so I asked her about it.  She said everything is great, but that she had just come from a movie theater which was showing all of the Oscar-nominated documentary shorts and she said that she felt like she had just gone through therapy.  The films were perspective-changing and she felt like she had been turned inside out.  After watching some of the horribly sad films, she realized that life is pretty good.  She was still processing everything in her head when I had approached her on the street.

When I asked Angela something about herself she considers to be a success, she answered that it was her children: "The fact that I've raised good people, good souls, and they have good balance and good moral centers."

Thank you, Angela!

Day 190 - James

This is James.  We met at the bus stop.  James was so surprised when I approached to ask if he'd be in the project.  He said that nobody has ever done anything like that before.

"Taking care of my Son," James answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

James' recent act of kindness is that he gives money to homeless people.

I asked James his life's purpose and he answered, "To be able to take care of my son and make sure he grows up right."

When I asked James something about himself which he considers to be a success, at first he said that he isn't there yet.  Several people have initially answered in the same way, but the point of asking this question is for people to identify one of their current strengths or personal achievements. We're always so focused on our future hopes and dreams, that we overlook our current strengths and minimize what we've gone through to get where we are. Sure, we may have a  long way yet to go - but this is just one more sneaky exercise in gratitude and positivity and I just want people to be able to talk about some positive things, in the hopes of amplifying them.   After encouraging James to think of something current, he answered, "I'm good at understanding people, and I'm focused."

James was so great!  We had a little more time than I normally get to spend with people.  James was willing to let me take several pictures, in a few different places, with a few different settings, and he and even sat down on the curb when I explained I always seem to have great luck when I take a picture of a person when they're sitting.

Thank you, James!

Day 191 - Bill

This is Bill.  We met on the street.

"I'm going to be putting on a show," Bill answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life.  Bill is a comedian and he's going to perform at Velo Cult soon!

When I asked Bill if he's recently performed an act of kindness, he was having a hard time thinking of anything.  He was to the point of giving up, but he was such a nice guy that I knew he must perform kind gestures for people all the time.  I encouraged him to think about even just little things, such as opening the door for someone or being extra polite or complimenting someone.  Bill was certain he had complimented someone recently.  I also reminded him that he was kind enough to stop and let me take his picture.

When I asked Bill if he has a personal mission statement or life's purpose, he answered, "To drink life out of a chalice, to achieve everything that I can, that I want to, and...I want to die awake and I want to die in my sleep."  Wow! Think about that last part: "I want to die awake and I want to die in my sleep."  Pretty deep and profound thinking for a guy who is also a comedian.

"My job," Bill answered, when I asked him something about himself which he would consider to be a success.

Thank you, Bill!  Good luck with your show!

Day 192 - Colin

This is Colin.  We met on the street, near PSU.  "I'm about to graduate," Colin answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Colin's recent act of kindness was a donation to his previous high school's  fundraising effort to help a family with a sick child.

"To pursue a career in design while loving those around me well," Colin answered, when I asked if he has a personal mission statement or life's purpose. I joked with Colin that our "interview" was good practice for all of the interviews he'll soon be facing.  Colin would love to work with the firm where he's currently an intern.

"I've made it through college in 4 years, while working a part-time job," Colin answered, when I asked something about himself which he would consider to be a success.

After Colin and I were finished, I had to walk a few blocks back to my car and along the way, I passed several restaurants and pubs and encountered several students.  I didn't actually realize it at the time, but after observing all of the other students I passed on my way back to the car, I was struck by how mature Colin was, compared to all of the other students I encountered.    I was  impressed and amazed by the comparison between Colin, who is just a few months from graduation, and the other younger students who acted much more like high school students than college students.   There was such a difference between the growth and maturation between Colin and the others.  Colin is definitely ready for the world and whatever comes next!

Thank you, Colin!  Wishing you lots of success and happiness!

Day 193 - Anthony

This is Anthony.  We met at Doug Fir.  In a weird coincidence, we figured out that we have a mutual friend, who is actually the husband of the person I was with at the time!

"I have a roof over my head," Anthony answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Anthony's recent act of kindness is that he always has spare change to give to homeless people.  He said that he's always carried extra giving-away money, ever since he was a kid.  I was curious if his parents encouraged him to do so, or lead by example, but Anthony said it was just something he did on his own.

"To create," Anthony answered, when I asked his life's purpose.  Anthony is a visual artist: "trying to recreate things how I see them."  Check out Anthony's Instagram - @anthonymeuserart  It's pretty amazing!  His work is paper cut-out pop art!

"I never give up," Anthony said, when I asked him something about himself which he considers to be a success.

Thank you, Anthony!

Day 194 - Taylor

This is Taylor. We met on the street.

"Dance!" - Taylor responded, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.  Taylor is an architectural dancer.  I confessed that I didn't quite know what that meant, so Taylor told me to check out POV Dance to get a better understanding.  Basically, my understanding is that it's like street dance - dance with structures and buildings and the environment becomes part of the dance.  However it's defined, it's pretty awesome.  One could easily let some serious time slip away by watching architectural dance videos on youtube!

I asked Taylor if he's recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of kindness and he explained that he's currently a Grad student and his professors gave him a lot of extra personal help and attention in his current work.  Taylor feels like, in general, he both gives and receives kindness.

"Being present wherever you are," Taylor answered, when I asked if he has a personal mission statement.  I explained to Taylor how much I love this thought, and that the time we had just spent taking pictures together, was the only time that entire day where I was able to be fully present in the moment.  For a minute or two, the only thing that mattered in my little world, was Taylor...and creating a picture with him.  It's part of the reason I love this project so much and I keep hoping the present mindfulness that occurs with photography,  will spill over into the rest of my life.  And, I hope that  the person I meet each day is able to let stress and worries slip away for a few minutes and we can just have a little fun together.

"Being generally interested in lots of things," Taylor answered, when I asked something about himself which he would consider to be a success.  I started to ask, "you must read a lot" but then I realized he had a book in hand, and my question was answered before I could even ask.

Thank you, Taylor!

Day 195 - Christopher

This is Christopher.  We also met on the street, Downtown.  He was on his way to work.  It is impossible not to notice Christopher.  I was admiring his style so intently, I almost forgot to ask if I could take his picture.  After we took a few pictures, I asked and instructed him on how to do a squinch.  He nailed it!

Before I ever picked up a camera, I was a serious people-watcher. I mean, almost embarrassingly so.  I could be content sitting outside and watching people for hours.  Sometimes, I embarrass myself.   Remember when we were kids and if we looked at someone for longer than what they felt was appropriate, they would say - "take a picture, it'll last longer!"?  Well, I heard that a lot as a kid.  It's pretty ironic now. Although an adult would never say that, but if they did, I would get happy and thank them for "inviting" me to take their picture!

The happiest thing happening in Christopher's life right now is that he just spent time with his family to celebrate his 80-year-old Grandmother's Birthday, who was in town for the occasion.

I asked Christopher if he's recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of kindness.  Christopher said that everyone's been really nice to him.  I have no doubt Christopher is also quite kind, given just the few minutes we spent together.

"To make every day a little better than yesterday," Christopher answered, when I asked if he has a personal mission statement.

I asked Christopher something about himself which he would consider to be a success and he answered that he has an art show coming up at the Wolf & Rabbit. 

Thank you, Christopher!

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

To strive to find balance and to realize that whatever you're going through is just a moment in time.

• To be able to take care of my son and make sure he grows up right.
• To drink life out of a chalice, to achieve everything that I can, that I want to, and...I want to die awake and I want to die in my sleep.
• To pursue a career in design while loving those around me, well.
• To create
• Being present wherever you are.
• To make every day a little better than yesterday

Thank you for reading this week and following along in the project!  I'll catch us up to the current week (which is the week prior) very soon!

Thank you!

365 More People Pictures - Week 26

Hi there! We're finished with week 26, of the 365 More People Pictures project.

Day 175 - Lowell

This is Lowell.  We met outside the mall.

"I woke up this morning, vertical," Lowell answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

I asked Lowell if he's recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness.  Lowell explained that he's been on the receiving end of kindness.  Lowell was homeless for a while, but he now has a place to live.  I'm so glad Lowell has landed on his feet and he received the kindness he needed most.

"I'm still looking, Lowell answered with a grin, when I asked his life's purpose.

When I asked Lowell something about himself which he would consider to be a success, I thought for sure his answer would be related to his military service or his work, as he was wearing pins on his hat indicating both.  Instead, he answered in a thick Southern accent, "I raised 4 kids...they're good Church-going people."

Wishing the best for Lowell, and that he continues to have a place to live and love from his family.

Day 176 - Walker

This is Walker.  We met outside of Sam's.

Walker was such a great subject because he was willing to give me lots of time, and he doesn't seem to mind being in front of a camera.  I had a hard time choosing which picture to share with you!

"A really lovely girl I met," Walker answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

Walker said that he was recently the recipient of an act of kindness, in that his sister just took him to the coast for the weekend.  In return, Walker helped her to learn guitar.  I was impressed they were able to achieve progress in weekend of guitar lessons. Either Walker is an excellent teacher or his sister is a natural!  (or perhaps both.)

"To find contentment in simplicity," is Walker's personal mission statement.  I love this!  Walker re-affirmed my objective to continue to purge and rid my life of anything (material) that I don't absolutely need or love.

When I asked Walker something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered that he taught himself how to play the mandolin.

Thank you, Walker.

Day 177 - Boo

This is Boo.  She was walking toward me as we walked down the sidewalk.  I almost didn't stop her because she definitely looked like she had places to go and things to do, but I just couldn't resist because she looked like an interesting person. She carried herself with confidence and determination, and she was wearing a motorcycle jacket so she had a little bit of badass-ness about her as well.  She struck me as an authority.  Oh, and I'm pretty sure her motorcycle jacket was an actual motorcycle jacket, as in, her bike was parked down the street.

When I asked Boo the happiest thing happening in her life right now, she said that she was on her way to get her first tattoo!  We were just a few footsteps away from the tattoo shop.  She was going to get her family's crest.  I asked if anyone else in her family had the tattoo and she said that all of her brothers have it, so it was her turn to get it.

"I try every day to be the best that I can be, to take care of my family and loved ones, and to be the best role model I can be," Boo answered, when I asked if she has a personal mission statement.

I asked Boo something about herself which she considers to be a success and she answered, "I think...the way I raised my son."

Thank you, Boo!

Day 178 - Benny

This is Benny.  We also met outside of Sam's.  He was taking a break before playing in a pool tournament.

"My relationship," Benny answered with huge smile, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now. "I'm the luckiest man alive," Benny added.

When I asked Benny if he's recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of kindness, he answered, "Both - that's how I go about my day."  People often can't remember a specific example, but Benny is certain he both gives and receives kindness often.

When I asked if Benny had a personal mission statement or life's purpose, he said that he doesn't really have a mission statement, but more of an actual mission:  "Exploration."  When we met, Benny had just moved from Colorado and had only been in Portland for 4 days, so he's not only exploring the city, but exploring a new career and life here.  As far as his life's purpose, Benny said, "To help people find their potential." "I feel like I'm a good coach and teacher," Benny added. Benny is fulfilled when he helps others to fulfill their potential.

Benny told me that I was the first person to stop and talk with him since he arrived. I was so bummed to hear this, because we're so nice in Portland!  Portland is a friendly place, for the most part.  Benny explained that he had moved from New York to Colorado and he transitioned from being a person who kept to himself in New York, to being a person who talked with random strangers in Colorado.  Benny said strangers just stop and talk with you in Colorado and that's the expectation he had for Portland, but his initial experience left him feeling more like how things were in New York.  I assured Benny that Portland is friendly and he would have many more positive interactions to follow.  Hmmm...maybe we warm up when the weather warms up?

When I asked Benny something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he had a hard time answering the question because he's a humble.  Benny decided that he was successful with change.  He's uprooted himself a few times and even though it's intimidating, he's embraced the changes.  He's also a good pool player.

Welcome to Portland, Benny!

Day 179 - Richard

This is Richard.  Richard was on his way to go buy an umbrella when we met.  It's been pouring here for the past few days.  When Portlanders break down and go umbrella shopping, you know it's raining hard!  (I have a confession. Since starting this project, I've discovered that umbrellas are a fabulously wonderful invention!  I don't care anymore that Portlanders think you're an out-of-towner if you're using one.  I started using one to keep my camera protected and discovered the added benefit of not looking like a soggy muffin when I've been out wandering the streets.  So there.  I admit it.  I use an umbrella and I like it. Phew.  I really needed to get that off my chest.)

Richard was another person for whom I had a hard time choosing my favorite picture.  Although I love it when people are smiling and happy and their photo looks like they were genuinely having fun making pictures with me, when I'm faced with the decision of having more than one good picture to use, I tend to favor the photos which are a little more edgy, tough, and pensive, over the happy/smiling photos.  I've noticed I quite frequently choose more pensive-looking photos that are technically lower quality, over happy/smily pictures which may be more technically sound.  I liked this picture of Richard because he looks a little Rock Star-ish.

"My kids are growing up well," Richard answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

When I asked Richard if he's recently performed an act of kindness, he considered the question for quite a while before answering, "I should work on that."  Again, I'm sure Richard spreads kindness in some way...he stopped in the awful weather and let me take his picture.  That's an act of kindness.  It's just really hard for people to think of something specific when we're put on the spot.

"To leave the world better than I came into it," Richard answered, when I asked his life's purpose.

Something about himself which Richard considers to be a success, is his family.

Thank you, Richard!

Day 180 - Kayla

This is Kayla.  We met at a coffee shop.

When I walked into the coffee shop, the barista wasn't at the counter, like usual.  Kayla, sitting at a table in the corner,  told me the barista ran next door and would be right back.  This gave me the perfect opportunity to ask Kayla if I could take her picture for the project.  Kayla agreed, and then the barista returned at that moment.  Kayla told me I should take the barista's picture instead.  Kayla said something like, "She's beautiful and I'm not."  The barista there is absolutely stunning...like the kind of pretty where you seriously can't help but to stare at her, and then you feel like a creeper for staring!  The barista,  standing right there at our table, was trying to figure out what we were talking about.  I agreed with Kayla, that "yes, she is beautiful...but so are you!"  With that little bit of assurance, Kayla was back on board.  Then I got nervous!  The coffee shop is a really challenging place to get a nice picture. I've blown it every time I've taken someone's picture there.  If I blew it with Kayla, I didn't wan't it to impact her self-confidence since it was already a bit fragile.   Kayla is beautiful.  (She just doesn't see it when she looks in the mirror.)

The happiest thing happening in Kayla's life right now is that she now has no roommates! Although she's had great roommate experiences, she's also excited to be living on her own.

When I asked Kayla if she's recently performed an act of kindness or if she's been on the receiving end of kindness, she explained that she works in customer service.  Her job is to give kindness.  Kayla also said that she'll sometimes buy coffee or drinks at Whole Foods, not really needing or wanting the drinks, but just making the purchase so she can sit down and use her computer and  free Wi-Fi.  When she's finished, she'll give the items she purchased to homeless people who are often sitting outside the store.  (That's both giving and receiving!)

Kayla is going to school to become a massage therapist, so her life's purpose is: "Making people feel relieved and relaxed, and helping them to feel better about their body."

When I asked Kayla something about herself which she considers to be a success, she answered, "Surviving.  I've been through a lot of crap."

After meeting so many survivor type people, and surviving some crap of my own, it's so clear to me that positive life changes result from the most painful challenges in life.  Making it through to the other side of the crap times in life, increases one's capacity to truly experience gratitude and find joy in simplicity.  When you go through the crap, you have a new appreciation for simply waking to live another day.  ("I woke up this morning, vertical," Lowell said earlier.)  I think when a person reaches the point where they value the beauty of simply surviving and waking another day, then life really begins to happen.  When you come out on the other side of  bad times, then life is filled with hope and possibility.

Kayla was actually the survivor of a car crash. I didn't ask details, but I gathered her injuries were enough to be life altering.  After all that she endured, the accident led her to start living her life's purpose.  Kayla attended college on a golf scholarship but she wasn't going to school for anything she was truly passionate about.  After the accident, she had to go through treatment and rehabilitation which included seeing chiropractor. It was her experience in going through rehab for her accident, that solidified her desire to become a massage therapist.  She always thought she wanted to be a massage therapist, but had she not had the accident, she may have never followed her heart and pursued massage as a career.  She was able to turn a bad, life-altering, accident into a positive opportunity.

Thank you, beautiful Kayla.

Day 181 - Alvin

This is Alvin.  We met in the mall.  I wasn't even looking for a subject at that particular time, but when Alvin walked by, I was compelled to ask if he would be in the project.

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

When I asked Alvin if he's recently performed an act of kindness, he explained that he's been working with someone who is currently grieving.  The exact phrase he said, made me think that perhaps grief counseling was his job, but Alvin clarified that it was personal, not professional.  Alvin is actually a massage therapist and having just talked with Kayla the day before, reminded me that massage therapists are doing their part to spread kindness. It's much easier to spread kindness when we're not in pain or suffering in some way.

"Don't just aim to please, aim to impress," Alvin said, is his personal motto.

"I'm continuously evolving with family, business and everyday life," Alvin answered, when I asked him something about himself which he would consider to be a success.

Thank you, Alvin!

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

• I'm still looking.
• To find contentment in simplicity.
• I try every day to be the best that I can be, to take care of my family and loved ones, and to be the best role model I can be.
• Exploration.
• To help people find their potential.
• To leave the world better than I came into it.
• Making people feel relieved and relaxed, and helping them to feel better about their body.
• Don't just aim to please, aim to impress.

Thank you for another week!

365 Day People Picture Project - Week 47

Hello and welcome to week 47 of The 365 Day People Picture Project!

I want to first mention that I experienced something quite exciting this past week.  I received an e-mail from someone, Hana,  who stumbled upon this project.  She complimented my efforts and said she had also been considering something similar, and wanted to reach out before starting her own project.  Of course I encouraged her to go for it!  Learning that I contributed some inspiration to another person, was pretty much a dream come true for me!

Hana didn't waste any time!  After e-mailing back and forth for just a couple days, she started her own 365 Day project! If you've enjoyed this project, I encourage you to follow @artysci on Instagram and check out her blog at www.artysci.co.uk.  Wishing you luck and success, Hana!

Day 322 - Marietta

This is Marietta.  She had been delayed in her tear-down/pack-up efforts from having worked the Recycled Arts Festival all weekend, so it gave me the perfect opportunity to ask if I could take her picture.  She quickly agreed, and I later learned that she may have been quick to let me take her picture because her son is a photographer.  I love it when I happen to meet photographers or people who have a photographer in their family, because they get it.  They don't think it's weird to have a complete stranger ask for their picture.

I asked Marietta the happiest thing happening in her life right now and she paused for a moment, then looked over to her adorable little schnauzer who was waiting patiently in his kennel, and she replied, "I'm happy that my dog is well."  Her dog had experienced a medical scare but came out on the other side and is doing well.

When I asked Marietta if she had recently performed an act of kindness, she said, "I lost $50 and I'm sure someone must have found it."  I was impressed with her positive outlook.  She's certain someone found it and she hoped it had made their day or that it helped the person who found it.  She genuinely hoped the finder of the lost money was happy and her sincerity was obvious.

"What I put out, I get back," summarized Marietta's personal mission statement.  She explained that she tries to think about what would be good karma in everything that she does.  This helped me to understand Marietta's sincere wish that the person who found her money was helped in some way.

I asked Marietta something about herself which she would consider to be a success and she replied, "that I raised three wonderful boys."

Day 324 - Jonathan

This is Jonathan.  He was so patient with me as we tried to locate the best spot for us to take a picture. The sun was shining brightly and causing the trees to cast shadows everywhere.  We finally had to wedge ourselves in a little alcove behind the bottle recycling machines at Whole Foods.  Jonathan was such a great sport about the weird location of our quick little shoot.

"I'm about to have 6 English Mastiff puppies," Jonathan said, is the happiest thing happening in his life right now.  I can't even imagine the cuteness overload!

Jonathan's recent act of kindness was that he had given someone food.

"To be 100% - mentally, physically and spiritually, all the time," Jonathan said, is his personal mission statement.

I asked Jonathan one thing about himself which he would consider to be a success and he replied, "I'm a drummer."  Jonathan is a drummer in a reggae band and here's a video from a while back.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yG0w4jr_Dpc

Day 325 - Alex

This is Alex.  I went into Plaid Pantry (convenience store) the other day and Juan (from day 236) happily announced that Alex was new and I'd have another new subject for the project!  Alex, before he even knew what he was agreeing to, confirmed that he LOVES having his picture taken!  I laughed and told him I'd be back before the end of the week.

"My music," Alex said, is the happiest thing happening in his life right now.  He debated between answering that it was his girlfriend who was the happiest thing happening in his life, but decided on music.  Alex and his girlfriend are actually in a band together, so he sort of covered both with this answer.

I asked Alex if he had recently performed an act of kindness and he replied, "I work here!"  His job gives him the opportunity to share kindness with his customers who are people from all walks of life.  He then went on to say that most recently, he discovered a bees nest, so he "warned" other pedestrians to stay clear of the bees. (which was an act of kindness for both the people and the bees!)

I asked Alex if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one on the spot.  Alex replied, "to make people feel again."  Alex went on to explain that he's in 4 bands and he wants to move people with what he says, both on and off stage.

When I asked Alex something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered, "I'm in 4 bands!"

Alex's 4 bands are:

1. Alexander S. Hormann - Solo
2. Lazy Finger - The band he's in with his Girlfriend
3. Vince Yawn - Punk
4. Soccer Moms - Alternative

Alex is full of personality and true to his mission statement, he definitely made me feel happier after meeting him!

Day 326 - Luis

This is Luis.  Although I didn't see it, Luis had just taken a spill on his skateboard when I approached him to ask if I could take his picture.  He agreed to let me take his picture, but he was wincing in pain.  I thought I should just let him be, but I could also tell I was a bit of a healthy distraction for him so I decided to carry on.  Luis was sitting on his skateboard so I decided to sit down on the grass with him in order to take his picture.  Just then, it hit me... C-R-A-M-P!!!  My foot/leg started to cramp, and poor Luis was still wincing and tending to the bruise forming on his shin.  We would have been a funny sight were we not in so much pain!  I had to hop back to my feet to make the charley-horse subside, but Luis couldn't do a thing about his injury.

I asked Luis the happiest thing happening in his life right now and through the pain, he replied, "having a child."  Luis' face lit up when he responded, even though he was hurting.

Luis was having trouble remembering if he's performed an act of kindness, but pretty much the only thing he could think of was the pain he was feeling.  I reminded him it was kind he had let me take his picture.

I asked Luis if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one on-the-spot.  Knowing he wasn't thinking of much at the moment, I rephrased the question and asked about his life's purpose.  "To support my kid, is my first goal," Luis answered.  I looked down at the bruise forming on his leg and asked curiously, "do you want your kid to be a skater?"  He looked down at his hurting leg, rubbed around the bruise a bit, and answered that he wants his son to do what makes him happy.   In a flicker, I could see in Luis that he wants both to protect his son from the bumps and bruises that skateboarding/life dishes out, but he wants him to enjoy the ride too.

"Being a father, " Luis answered, when I asked one thing about himself which he would consider to be a success.  Wishing Luis and his family a lifetime of happiness!

Day 327 - Sir Charles Wiggins III

This is "Sir Charles Wiggins III."  He looked like he had someplace to be, so our interaction was short and efficient.

"My 3 1/2 year old daughter," Sir Charles Wiggens III said, is the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

I asked "S.C.W.III" if he had recently performed an act of kindness and he answered, "I would like to think so," but he couldn't recall a specific act.  Again, I reminded him that he let me take his picture.

"Live, grow, and thrive," Sir Charles Wiggins III answered, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one.

I asked one thing about himself he would consider to be a success and Sir Charles responded, "being content."  I love this answer!

Day 328 - Eric

This is Eric.  I spotted him taking pictures in the park so I figured he would most likely let me take his picture for the project.

"Vacation," Eric said, is the happiest thing happening in his life right now. Eric is here vacationing from California.

I asked Eric if he had recently performed an act of kindness and his friend helped to remind him of the answer.  "I bought Voodoo Doughnuts for the family this morning," Eric answered.

"Enjoy life to its fullest," Eric answered, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or if he could think of one on the spot.

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

Best wishes for a happy vacation, Eric!

Day 329 - Ben

This is Ben.  Ben asked me for directions and it gave me the opportunity to ask him for his picture!  I was struck with the realization that Ben was the first person in this project to approach me first.  After meeting Ben, I was so glad that he had gotten turned around.  I would have never met him had he found his destination.

I asked Ben the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he responded immediately, "growth!"

Knowing that people often experience an explosion of personal growth and development after having experienced something "bad," or at least not positive, I asked Ben if something bad had happened.  Ben then went on to explain that there are two types of growth - growth away from something, or growth toward something.  In Ben's case, the growth he's experiencing is a result of him being an incredibly driven person and his growth is toward building a really amazing future.

Talking with Ben feels like you're talking to a motivational speaker.  I couldn't help but catch a little of his enthusiasm and it's just what I needed.  I've been feeling a little blue about the project coming to an end and not knowing what I would do next, but then Ben happened.

Ben's words stuck with me and I wanted to learn more.  I figured Ben's wisdom must have come from a source,  - a psychological or philosophical theory, or perhaps a famous author on personal self-development.  When I got home, I googled to see if I could find the source and learn more.

I had created a dilemma in my mind - for example, if a person who experienced a terribly sad break-up decides to pick up the pieces of their broken heart and trudge on, is their growth away from the pain, or is it toward happiness?  Or is it both?   When a person with an addiction breaks free from that addiction, is their change to grow away from the pain and devastation caused from their addiction, or is their growth toward living a healthy and productive life?  I wanted to learn more, but my search didn't reveal the author, psychologist or philosopher behind this thought.  Instead, I discovered a whole lot of information about plants and phototropism.   You know how plants often grow toward the direction of the light?  That's phototropism.  I learned that when plants grow toward the light, it's called positive phototropism.  When plants grow away  from the light, it's called negative phototropism.  In my little botany lesson, I better understood what Ben was explaining to me and I reached the conclusion that although positive or negative phototropism is meaningful for plants, for humans - it matters not if we're growing away from something (negative), or toward something (positive), it matters most that we're just continuing to grow.

I asked Ben if he had recently performed an act of kindness and he explained that he had offered to help a group of people who are looking to improve their lives.

"To develop myself so that I can offer others as much as possible," Ben said, is his personal mission statement.

I asked Ben something about himself which he would consider to be a success and he said that he's able to experience "where I am in the moment, and have peace."

I left Ben feeling a bit of a boost.  Like the sun is for plants, Ben is like a light source for humans.  You can't help but experience a little growth and renewal when you're around his enthusiasm. His genuine desire for self-improvement and to be of service to others is contagious.  Ben told me his dream was to become a teacher.  He realized his dream, and now he wants to improve it.

Dream it. Realize it. Improve it.  Wow!

Ben filled me with inspiration and now the answer is right before me.  I had a dream to take a picture of a person every day for a year.  I'm now making that dream a reality.  Next step - improve it!

See why I'm so glad Ben was lost and he asked me for directions?  Seems we were both able to help each other to get where we needed to be.  Thank you, Ben.

Here's a summary of the personal mission statements and life's purposes of the subjects from this week. I also added a little extra from Ben.

• What I put out, I get back.
• To be 100% - mentally, physically and spiritually, all the time.
• To make people feel again.
• Live, grow, and thrive.
• Enjoy life to its fullest.
• To develop myself so that I can offer others as much as possible.
• Dream it. Realize it. Improve it.

Thank you to each of you who have been subjects in this project.  I'm grateful for your kindness and that you shared yourself with us.  Thank you.

And thank you for following along for another week!  These past few weeks have been bitter-sweet knowing the project is coming to an end.  Meeting Ben made me realize - I can keep going! I can improve it!   Knowing that I can always keep going helps me to not stress about the future of this project and this blog, and to focus on what's important.  Today.

Thank you!