365 More People Pictures - Week 48

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

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

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

Day 48 - Edward

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Edward.

Day 330 - Deandre

This is Deandre.  We met walking down the street.

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

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

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

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

Day 331 - Neil

This is Neil.

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

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

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

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

Day 332 - Elissa

This is Elissa. We met at the bus stop.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 333 - Tiana

This is Tiana.  We met on the street.

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

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

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

Thank you, Tiana! Welcome to Portland!

Day 334 - Michelle

This is Michelle.  We met on the street.

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

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

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

Day 335 -  Ryan

This is Ryan.  We met on the street.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

365 More People Pictures - Week 46

Hello! These are the subjects from week 46.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 315 - Kim

This is Kim, my sister-in-law.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Kim.

Day 316 - Rich

This is Rich. We met at the park.

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

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

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

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

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

Day 317 - Josh

This is Josh.  We met at the bus stop.

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Josh.

Day 318 - James

This is James.  We met outside Hollywood Theatre.

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

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

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

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

Thank you, James.

Day 319 - Arielle

This is Arielle.

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

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

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

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

Day 320 - Joe

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 321 - Erek

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Erek.

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

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

Thank you for reading!

365 More People Pictures - Week 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 27

Hello! Thank you for checking out week 27!

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

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

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

Day 182 -  Ashley 

This is Ashley.  We met at the bus stop.

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Ashley! Good luck!

Day 183 - Rob / 8Bit / Cary Nokey

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 184 - Evan

This is Evan.  We met walking down the street.

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Evan.  You made me smile.

Day 185 - Ron

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Ron.

Day 186 - Jesse

This is Jesse. We met on the street.

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

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

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

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

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

Day 187 - Matthew

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Matthew.

Day 188 - TJ

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you for following along!

Wishing you a great week!

365 More People Pictures - Week 25

Hello! Thank you for checking out week 25 of the 365 More People Pictures project.  If this is your first time checking in, this is my second personal 365 Day Photography challenge to take a picture of a person every day for another year.  The majority of the people in this project are strangers, but also included are a few friends, family and co-workers.

I got my first DSLR a little over 540 days ago and in attempt to learn photography so that I could have visual content for this blog, I challenged myself to take a picture of a person, every single day, for an entire year. When the first 365 days were finished, I just couldn't stop!  I discovered I loved meeting and talking with people so I challenged myself to another 365 Days. Plus, I was a little worried if I didn't continue another project, I might set down my camera and not make the time or find a reason to pick it up ever again.  I love photography, and challenging myself to a 365 Day Project gives me a very good excuse, and very good motivation, to stick with it.  Plus, I just still have soooooo much more to learn!

I didn't have a clear path set when I started this blog, and obviously the project has now taken over the entire purpose of the blog.  That may change some day, but for now, I'm just loving what I've been doing and all the people I've had the opportunity to talk with.

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

Day 168 - Amber the Corgi, and Her Human

This is Amber and her Human.  They were out for a walk at Esther Short Park on this foggy day.

I asked Amber's human the happiest thing happening in her life right now and she said that it was moving out here from Albuquerque.

"I wish I could think of something deep and meaningful, but I just want to do good in my life and be happy," Amber's human said, when I asked if she has a personal mission statement.  It doesn't matter how the words are constructed, striving to do good and being happy is meaningful.

When I asked Amber's human something about herself which she considers to be a success, she answered, "I'm independent."

Welcome to the Northwest, Amber & her Human

As I was leaving the park, I looked over just in time to see this man walking out of a dense patch of fog.  It looked like something out of a scary movie!  I was both fascinated and a little creeped out too.

Day 169 - Kyle

This is Kyle. We met at Starbucks.

"This beautiful weather!  I spent the weekend outdoors with my family," Kyle answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.  This week was a little bizarre as far as weather goes.  We went from cold and fog so think you could practically feel it, to having sunshine and spring-lik temperatures.

I asked Kyle if he's recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been on the receiving end of kindness. Kyle said that he's received help and kindness from his friends and family.

"To not let fear or laziness get in the way," Kyle answered, when I asked if he has a personal mission statement.  This is so true.  When I think about the goals or accomplishments I've never pursued, the reasons for not achieving success simply boils down to fear. Either the fear of failure, or even the fear of success and all the work that comes with it.  One could argue that's also laziness, but at it's deepest root - I still find fear.  This is an excellent personal mission statement and I've been thinking of it since meeting Kyle, and have questioned myself throughout the week to put both fear and laziness in check.

"Still being alive," Kyle answered, when I asked something about himself which he would consider to be a success.

Day 170 - Ryan

This is Ryan. We met at a convenience store.

The happiest thing happening in his life right now is his job as an elevator mechanic, and his new Triumph motorcycle. Ryan told me a little about the program and requirements to be an Elevator Mechanic.  When school/training and apprenticeship hours are completed, an elevator mechanic will have over 10,000 hours of experience.  No wonder it's so rare to be caught in an elevator!

I asked Ryan if he's recently performed an act of kindness, or if he's been on the receiving end of kindness.  Ryan said that he's always trying to help others. He helps out his ex, even though they're no longer together, and he does little things to pay it forward like buying coffee for random people at coffee shops.  Ryan then said that his Mom wishes he would go to Church more often.  I laughed and explained that I could relate...it's what moms do!

"To live life to the fullest and treat other people the way I want to be treated," Ryan answered, when I asked if he has a personal mission statement.  I told Ryan that in spite of his Church attendance record, his Mom would be proud that he's living the golden rule.

When I asked Ryan something about himself which he considers to be a success, he said it's his mechanical, electrical, and welding background.  Ryan then added that a few years ago,  he was also ranked 47th in the country for AMA Flat Track Racing.

Thank you, Ryan!

Day 171 - Kassie

This is Kassie.  We met at the bus stop.

"I made really great friends this year," Kassie answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in her life right now.

"To always be your best person so you can set an example for others," Kassie answered, when I asked if she has a personal mission statement or if she could make one up.  Kassie is going to school to become a therapist and I can tell she's going to be a great one!  When I confessed to Kassie how few hours of the day that I could actually say I'm being my best person, vs. how much I want to be/or am striving toward, she answered in a way that made it feel ok.  She made it seem like we get credit for the desire and our effort to be our best person, even if our progress is imperfect.

I asked Kassie something about herself which she would consider to be a success and she answered, "I'm very motivated."

Thank you, Kassie and good luck with school!

Day 172 - Mogwai

This is Mogwai.  We also met at a bus stop.

The happiest thing happening in Mogwai's life right now, and something about herself which she would consider to be a success,  is that she's returned to school!

When I asked Mogwai if she's recently performed an act of kindness or if she's been on the receiving end of kindness, she explained that she's received quite a bit of kindness this past year.  Mogwai was basically homeless but thanks to the help of others, she's now back on her feet and has taking advantage of the opportunity to go back to school. In turn, she's starting a charity organization of her own so that she can help others who were in her situation.

The bus arrived before we finished.  Good luck, Mogwai!

Day 173 - Chris

This is Chris.  It was friday night and I spotted him sitting in his car with the door open, eating carrots.  I initially walked past him and then found myself wondering why he was sitting in his car, eating carrots, on a Friday night.  Then of course that thought was followed by the thought, what am I'm doing, wandering around on a Friday night, looking for a person to take a picture of, when there's an interesting person right there?  So, I turned back and approached Chris to ask if I could take his picture for the project.

Chris was parked outside of Velo Cult and when I asked if he was waiting for someone, he explained that he was waiting for a show to start inside.

"This show tonight," Chris answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.   I learned that Chris is the Editor of Vortex Magazine, which is a magazine about the local Portland music scene.  The concert had been a secret show to which Vortext presented clues during the month to reveal the location.

When I asked Chris if he's recently performed an act of kindness, or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness, he was sure he had done something but he was having trouble thinking of anything specific.  He asked if we could circle back.  A few moments later, Chris' friend/co-worker/photographer came out and Chris asked him if he could remember if he's done anything nice.  Chris' friend reached into Chris' little container o' carrots, stuffed one in his mouth and then said that Chris let him have some of his carrots!  Ha!  The two had been working hard and were loading in cases of magazines for the show and hadn't had time to eat.  Chris is a good guy...he doesn't let his friends/co-workers/photographers starve!

"I believe very strongly that collaboration will make all of us stronger," Chris answered, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or if he could make one up.

When I asked Chris something about himself he would consider to be a success, Chris answered, "I feel like I'm good at bringing people together that share similar values."  I pointed out to Chris how perfectly this trait aligns with his personal mission statement.  Chris agreed, saying he also realized it too, after he answered.

When we were finished, Chris told me a little more about Vortex and gave me two issues.  Chris has created a dream-come-true job for himself. I told Chris I've been wanting for (or dreaming of) a new Portland magazine, and Chris has set out to do just that.  I can imagine all of the challenges he must face in giving birth to a new publication at a time when print is battling for survival, but he's making it happen!  Chris is using this time as an opportunity. He and everyone at Vortex are putting out a really good product and I can't wait to see how it evolves!  You can check out Vortex online, subscribe for whatever you feel like paying, or if you see Vortex when you're out - definitely pick up a copy!

I have such huge admiration for Chris and people like him...people who just make things happen.  Chris may have had a hard time thinking of an act of kindness but after reading his magazine, I realized Vortex is not only his passion, but in a way, it is also an act of kindness.  Chris is helping to promote and give exposure to local bands, venues, and the other businesses and services surrounding and supporting music.

Chris, wishing you and Vortex great success and I hope you're having fun creating it as well.

Day 174 - Shelby

This is Shelby.  She is the daughter of one of my dearest and oldest friends.  I attended her Senior gymnastics meet on Saturday.  I can't even believe this little girl is graduating in just a few short months and I don't know how you parents do it.  It's so hard to let go.  It feels like just a few months ago when my friend announced she was having a baby and I can still remember rubbing my friend's little baby bump tummy when Shelby was just a bun in the oven.

It was difficult choosing the picture to share here.  We made  few that looked just like the adorable bright and sun-shiny little girl that I know and love, and then there was this one.  We were taking these pictures at night, in a little alley between two buildings, so the light and shadows were a little weird and challenging.  Although it was a tough decision, I deliberately chose this picture because she looked more like a young woman than a little girl, and she was split between shadow and light, and that's the kind of bittersweet conflict I was feeling knowing this was one of her final high school gymnastics meets.  Shelby has such a bright future ahead of her, but I was left wondering where all the time went.  I can't even imagine how her parents, or any parents, feel and cope knowing that part of being a parent is letting their child out into the world to go create a life for themselves.  It's both exciting and terrifying, both gratifying and sad.

The happiest thing happening in Shelby's life right now is that she's appreciating each moment that she has with her team.  I loved watching Shelby's team and the love and support they gave to one another.

When I asked Shelby if she's recently performed an act of kindness, she was having trouble remembering anything specific but I know this kid is one good-hearted kid and she's been doing volunteer work for years.  I helped remind her that we had just done a Project Brown Bag mission on Christmas, and then her mom added that Shelby volunteers to coach Special Abilities Gymnastics, she volunteered to be a Bell-Ringer for Salvation Army, and she often gives her teammates rides home.  Shelby questioned her mom, saying she didn't think that was really an act of kindness, but rather just something she should do to help her teammates.  Shelby's Mom laughed and said, "trust me, it's a big act of kindness for the girls' moms!"  I can also remember my friend would take Shelby and her brother to volunteer at a local homeless shelter when they were younger, and they also volunteered for Meals on Wheels.  Earlier this year, while on "vacation," they also went to one of the toughest parts of Oakland and worked with an outreach organization providing services to homeless people.  Shelby has been to some pretty tough places (with supervision) and seen people in difficult circumstances.  I think that her experiences have helped shape her to becoming the loving and compassionate person she's grown to be.

"Surround yourself with positive people," Shelby answered, when I asked if she had a personal mission statement.  Yes!  So glad Shelby has this figured out at her young age.

When I asked Shelby something about herself which she would consider to be a success, she answered, "Maintaining a 4.0 GPA and being a 3-sport varsity athlete."  Shelby is one amazing young woman.  She's smart, hard-working, compassionate, strong and beautiful.

Shelby, wishing you happiness in whatever you decide to do.  I love you, we're all so proud of you, and I'm so happy to have been a tiny part in your life.  Thank you.

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

•  To do good in my life and be happy.
• To not let fear or laziness get in the way.
• To life life to the fullest and treat other people the way I war to be treated.
• To always be your best person so you can set an example for others.
• I believe very strongly that collaboration will make all of us stronger.
• Surround yourself with positive people.

Thank you to each and every subject in this project.  I appreciate you and your willingness to share yourself with us.

Thank you for reading!

Have a  big week!

365 More People Pictures - Week 21

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

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

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

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

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

Day 140 - Christie

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 141 - Alex

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

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

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

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

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

Alex, thank you!

Day 142 - Bradina

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Bradina! Happy Birthday!

Day 143 - Ian

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

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

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

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

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

Day 144 - Curtis

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 145 - Chris

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 146 - Susan

This is Susan.  We met at the trail.

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Susan!

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

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

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

Thank you!

365 More People Pictures Project - Week 18

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

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

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

What would be in your Codex Vitae?

Day 119 - Andrew

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

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

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

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

Day 120 - Nate

This is Nate.

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

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

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

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

Day 121 - The Teacher

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 122 - Jeff

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you, Jeff!

Day 123 - Doug

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

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

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

Day 124 - Blake

This is Blake.  Blake. Blake. Blake.  Could he be a model, or what?

I had just left my hair stylist and had just been complaining to her how surprisingly challenging it is to find a subject in that area, considering it's such a dense and popular part of Portland. I always end up finding someone great, but I've been surprised at how hard I've had to work at it.  As soon as I left her salon and walked around the corner, I spotted Blake.  He was the first person I saw, and I decided to just go for it.

Blake agreed to let me take his picture and as soon as he was in front of the camera and as I was looking at him through the viewfinder, I was like - WOW!  Who is this guy?  I felt so cheesy as the words fell out of my mouth and I asked, "are you a model?"  Blake laughed and said that he wasn't a model.  He should be!

I'm always extremely critical of myself.  In attempt to learn more about photography, I follow dozens of photographers and view thousands of images a week.  Although I know it's what I need to do to improve, the downside of this is that I'm constantly comparing my pictures to the work of others.  It can be, at times, demoralizing, defeating and discouraging.

If I were to confess these feelings of inadequacy to one of my friends, I know they would tell me that it's unrealistic to compare anything I've ever done to the work of a professional photographer who has years of experience and/or formal education, proper lighting and equipment, and a team of hair and make-up artists and assistants.

I have only 490 days of experience, no lighting, no training or education, an entry-level DSLR and until recently, only the two kit lenses that came with the camera, and usually only a few seconds or minutes to shoot a stranger I just met on the street. (and all the awkwardness that comes with it.)

To offset the utter feelings of hopelessness and inadequacy I get when I see so many amazing and talented artists,  I try to balance the images I consume in a week and take in both styled/studio images, and raw street photography and documentary photography.  Somewhere in the middle of all of that, I think is where I'll find my "style."

I know there's still several things I did wrong with this picture, but seeing Blake's picture gives me hope.  I like Blake's picture.  It's still really very easy for me to take a bad picture of a beautiful person but I'm able to look at Blake's picture and say, "that's a good picture."  I know a pro, or anyone with 491 days of photography experience, would point out 14 errors or ways in which the image could have been improved, but for now - I feel a major sense of accomplishment in that I've gotten to a point where I can say, "that's a good picture," about a picture I've taken.  I've liked and even loved several of the pictures I've taken, but there are very few about which I've been able to say, "that's a good picture."   As I'm typing this, I'm thinking - am I really sure about this? Is it a good picture, or am I confusing a good picture with the fact that I think that Blake is just a beautiful person?  I'm not so sure now.  I just wish I could meet Blake again and take 1,247 more pictures so I could figure it out!

I asked Blake the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he answered, "opportunities to play music."  Blake is a singer/song-writer.

Blake's recent act of kindness is that he found someone's wallet and returned it with everything still intact.

Blake's impromptu personal mission statement: "keep working at it."

"I'm not a complete asshole," Blake answered, when I asked him something about himself which he considers to be a success. I laughed at Blake's answer and something tells me that he's far from being even just a partial asshole.

Day 125 - Linda Bea

This is Linda Bea.  She's an awesome girl! I was fortunate enough to meet Linda Bea a couple years ago.  When you hear Linda's laugh, you can't help but feel happy and you find yourself laughing harder than normal because Linda's laugh is so contagious.

Linda and I, along with several other women, modeled for a photoshoot for Sweet Spot Skirts yesterday.  Sweet Spot Skirts are so awesome and they fit everyone from a size 0 to size 26.  Linda and I are models for the size NOT-zero.

Linda and I met a few years ago, also at a photoshoot and it was the first time I had modeled.   Linda was a pro by then.  I can't even begin to tell you how stressed I was.  I wasn't feeling so great about myself because of the weight I had gained.   I'm so uncomfortable having my picture taken by even my very best friends, but I agreed to model because the skirts are one of the greatest things you can put on your body and they help you to feel confident when you're working out.  I also adore and admire the owner/designer and if my not-little body helps other women discover a Sweet Spot Skirt, any temporary discomfort I felt while having my picture taken is worth it because I know that women will love these skirts!  I know it's hard to believe that something like a skirt can be life-changing, but seriously - it is!)

When I met Linda for the first time, she was as cool as a cucumber.  She acted like it was no big deal that we were about to be photographed with a bunch of very young, beautiful, fit, thin, and amazing ladies! I tried my best to absorb Linda's coolness, but when that wasn't working - Linda totally killed me with laughter.  I ended up having the best time ever!  Linda is a sweetheart and so dang funny! Since meeting Linda, there have been a few times when I've thought of her laugh to help me chill out during a stressful moment.

We had already been shooting for a few hours yesterday when I asked Linda if I could take her picture for the project.  Believe me, this modeling business is hard work and I know taking one more picture was probably not on the top of Linda's to-do list, but she agreed.  We did the interview after we were finished with the real shoot.  When went outside for me to take the picture,  I couldn't figure out what was wrong with my camera.  Then it dawned on me.  I had taken the battery out to charge before heading to the real photoshoot and I was so nervous about being in front of the camera for once, that I totally forgot to put the battery back in.  I was so bummed I didn't have my good camera.  I wanted the opportunity to take portrait of the beautiful Miss Linda Bea.  I was stressed and upset with myself for forgetting,  but Linda was so cool.  She just let me take her picture with my iPhone.  Once again, Linda taught me - just be cool. It's ok...just roll with what life gives you.

I asked Linda the happiest thing happening in her life right now and she said that she's happy she's going to spend New Year's Eve with her Sister.  They have a tradition to always celebrate New Year's Eve together.

I asked Linda if she's recently performed an act of kindness or if she's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness. Linda is a nurse, so she performs acts of kindness daily.  I'm certain Linda must be one amazing nurse!  She's just a fabulous person!  Linda explained that recently, an anonymous co-worker gifted her with three weeks of paid leave because Linda had been taking off a lot of time in order to be with her ill father.  Linda's Father isn't doing well and she said that he's near end-of-life.  Linda said her Father has had a great life and he's a great man.  Being the recipient of someone's act of kindness has inspired Linda to dedicate 2015 to paying it forward.  (See, I told you she was amazing.)

I asked Linda if she has a personal mission statement or life's purpose.  Linda's impromptu mission statement:  "Find happiness, the glass is half full, and laugh often & hard."   These are more than just words for Linda.  She lives it, and just being around her helps you to live it too.

"That I'm comfortable where I am at age 51.  I'm happy being me," Linda answered, when I asked something about herself which she would consider to be a success.  This is one of my favorite answers.

Linda Bea, you are awesome!  Thank you!

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

• Do the best you can to help those in need.
• To be kind, honest and loyal at all times.
• To be happy, help others, and be a good person.
• To somehow make a difference
• Keep working at it.
• Find happiness, the glass is half full, and laugh often & hard.
• Thank you to every subject in this project! I appreciate you and your kindness and willingness to share yourself with us.

Thank you to each and every subject in this project!  Thank you for sharing yourself with us and please don't hesitate to e-mail me if you would like a copy of your picture.

365 More People Pictures - Week 15

Hello! This has turned out to be men's week.  This is the first time, that I can think of,  that every subject has been male.  It's always a challenge finding women subjects and now that it's cold and dark, it's a challenge finding any subject, male or female.  I'm almost to the point where I need to give in to the need to change the area where I typically search for subjects. It will be much easier finding people if I go to downtown Portland, but I've tried to keep in close proximity of work in order to condense my travel-time home.  I just wanted you to know that I didn't purposely exclude the ladies this week.  It just happened that way.

Day 98 - Roben

This is Roben.  We met in Esther Short Park.  Roben has caused me to see things differently, both literally and figuratively.

When I arrived to the park, I started walking in the direction of the square area, near the salmon fountain/sculpture.  I've been there several times, but on this particular visit, I could hear someone telling a legend about the salmon.  I couldn't figure out from where it was coming, and then I realized it was coming from the actual sculpture.  I could see Roben observing the sculpture and headed over to ask if I could take his picture for the project.

Roben agreed to let me take his picture, but he said it was on the condition that he wasn't going to pose. (look at me/the camera.)  The fish sculpture was still telling the story, so it was loud and difficult to talk and hear one another.  Roben's eyes were fixed on the sculpture and he explained to me that after the story, the sculpture's bells would chime and sometimes the gates open up and the salmon begin to swim.  (at least that's what I could hear since once the bells began to chime, it was quite loud.)  Roben told me that he likes to watch the bells ring and he tries to guess which one will ring next.  I liked watching Roben trying to guess which bell would chime, and that's when this picture was taken.

At first I was bummed that I wasn't able to get a picture of Roben looking at me, but after I prepared the picture for instagram that night and I was able to sit with it a bit,  I decided I was glad that Roben pushed me in a different direction.  You've figured out by now, I seem to have developed a particular style of portrait and nearly every photo is the same. (You would think that after having taken basically the same picture ever day for the past 465 days, that I would have nailed it by now.  There's just so much to learn and I continue to make mistakes each and every day.)

I asked Roben the happiest thing happening in his life right now and I could tell he was searching for an answer. He held a library book tucked under his arm, and he finally answered it was books.  Roben explained he didn't really have any family.

I asked Roben if he's performed an act of kindness, or if he's been on the receiving end of an act of kindness.  Again, Roben considered the question for a while before answering, "I'm pleasant to the people I live with."  It sounded like Roben doesn't always receive back the kind consideration he gives to his roommates.

When I asked Roben if he had a personal mission statement, or a life's purpose, I didn't actually get an exact answer.  Instead, Roben and I just talked and I abandoned the question so that could just listen to what Roben had to share with me.  He said he thinks about his life's purpose. At one time, he did volunteer work with kids (in schools) and that was something that gave him purpose.  He liked being able to make a difference and seeing when a kid learned or understood something for the first time.  After listening to Roben, I said perhaps his purpose is "to be of help to people."  Technically, this is my answer, not Roben's.  Talking with Roben felt like talking with a teacher.  He may not have been one by profession, but he is very much a teacher.

I asked Roben something about himself which he would consider to be a success and I could tell he wasn't going to give me an answer.  He either couldn't, or wouldn't.  In talking with him, I learned that Roben was a Vietnam Veteran and that he had dreams of riding his bike all across the country.  On his first venture on his bike, he made it as far as Mexico, but when he arrived, he fell and broke his leg.  He had to come back home to mend but as soon as he was able, he started traveling again.  Roben wanted to go back to Vietnam, but instead, stayed in Thailand for a few months and then went onto Israel.

I was glad I met Roben and honored he let me take his picture.

Day 99 - Erich

This is Erich.  I had been rejected by so many people this day and although it can get so discouraging, I now get a little excited when I get declined several times because it always means I'm going to meet someone a little extra special.  Erich was that person.

I asked Erich the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he answered, "going to school to be a fashion designer."  Erich gave me a little shot of inspiration.  He explained that once he hit 40, he realized he wasn't on the right path and that it was finally time to follow his dreams.  Being able to recognize this and make the leap, is something about himself which Erich considers to be a success.    As long as we're living, it's never too late to pursue our dreams!

I asked Erich if he's recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been the recipient of an act of kindness. Erich said that his partner is very kind to him every day, and supportive of his return to school.

"To be a hard act to follow," Erich answered, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or a life's purpose.  I love it! Erich was actually ready with his answer and he explained it's been his personal saying for a while. Erich, you are a hard act to follow!  Wishing you luck and success in attaining your dream as a fashion designer!

Day 100 - Joe

This is Joe.  He was day 100 of the second project!  Can you even believe we've been doing this every day for the past 465 days!?

"My relationship with my girl," Joe answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

I asked Joe if he had recently performed an act of kindness. He wasn't sure if this would count because it's family,  but he said he had just driven out to Damascas to help his Dad.  Yes!  Everything counts!  I just really wan't people to consider for a moment either the kindness they've shared with others, or the kindness they've received from others.  It doesn't matter if it's family, friends or complete random strangers.  It's nice to be able to think about something positive and the more we reflect on kindness, the more it will spread.

"To live for enjoyment and to help others do the same," Joe answered, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or life's purpose.

"I'm pretty successful with how I treat other people," Joe replied, when I asked something about himself which he would consider to be a success.  Joe is right about this!

Day 101 - David

This is David.  I met David and his brother while they were out on a little "urban hike."

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

I asked David if he had recently performed an act of kindness or if he's been the recipient of an act of kindness. David explained that a auto body shop didn't charge him for storage or diagnostic services, even though David opted to have the repair work performed elsewhere.

"To live my life to it's fullest potential, David answered, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or life's purpose.

When I asked David something about himself which he would consider to be a success, he answered, "I have wonderful family that I love very much."  He then questioned himself out loud, wondering if he could say that family is his success.  I loved it when his brother answered for him, agreeing that David is very much a part of, and contributor to,  the love of their family.  It made me teary-eyed watching and listening to the brothers interact.

Day 102 - Jon

This is Jon.  Before he could even clarify the spelling on his name, I had a feeling he was a Jon and not a John.  Have you noticed you can just sort of tell?

The happiest thing happening in Jon's life right now is that he just got a new full-time job.

Jon's recent act of kindness is that he gave $10 to a homeless man.  He sees the man frequently and the man never asks for money, but on one of the freezing-cold days, Jon was concerned for him and offered the man $10, hoping he could purchase something to give him a little warmth.  Jon was hesitant to give the man money because he didn't want to offend him, but the man was appreciative of Jon's kindness.

"To bring positive to the negative," Jon answered, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or life's purpose.  Jon's profession is social work, so he's able to bring positive to the negative in his work-life, and his job is also an act of kindness.

I asked Jon something about himself which he would consider to be a success and he answered, "the people in my life - I have a good circle of friends."  I have no doubt Jon's circle of friends is loyal and large.  In just a few short minutes, it felt like we were friends.

Day 103 - Eli

This is Eli.   He's friends with one of my customers, Marcus.  There are a few exceptions, but typically I keep my work quite separate from my life and only a few of my customers and co-workers even know about this project.   It was absolutely pouring out and I'm so glad that Marcus suggested, basically insisted, that Eli be the subject for the day.

I always get nervous when I take pictures of people I know.  That's totally backwards, isn't it?  Most people wouldn't even consider asking a stranger for a picture and wouldn't have a problem taking the picture of an acquaintance, but I've now taken more pictures of strangers than of people I know.  When I'm taking the picture of someone I know, I feel extra pressure to perform...and most often, I blow it.

I asked Eli the happiest thing happening in his life right now and he answered that he was happy to be going to Eugene for the game and to see his best friends.  He and Marcus were going to hit the road as soon as they were finished with me.

Eli was the recipient of an act of kindness that same day.  Eli just started his new job a month ago.  Earlier in the day, his co-worker who also started the job the same day as Eli, brought him a cookie from Starbucks to celebrate their one month anniversary!

"To be happy and to make everyone I surround myself with happy as well," Eli answered, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or life's purpose.

I asked Eli something about himself which he would consider to be a success and he answered, "things don't come easy to me, but I'm willing to go work hard to get them."

Thank you, Eli!

Day 104 - John

This is John.  We met in the parking lot at the head of one of my favorite little hiking trails.

"My daughter is home from college for Thanksgiving," John answered, when I asked the happiest thing happening in his life right now.

John wasn't able to recall if he's performed a specific act of kindness, but he explained that the people around him do nice things every day.

"My mission in life is to enjoy as much of the outdoors as possible," John answered, when I asked if he had a personal mission statement or life's purpose.  John totally looks like Mr. Outdoors-y.  It had been pouring down rain but he hadn't let the rain deter him from his run. He's living his mission in life.   I asked John if he was training and he said that he had just finished a 50K (ultramarathon) a couple weeks ago!

I asked John something about himself he would consider to be a success and he answered, "my years as a teacher has been a success - impacting children's lives."  John has been teaching at the same school for 20 years!

The subjects from this week have shared the following personal mission statements and life's purpose:

• To be of help to people.
• To be a hard act to follow.
• To live for enjoyment and to help others do the same.
• To bring positive to the negative.
• To be happy and to make everyone I surround myself with happy as well.
• My mission in life is to enjoy as much of the outdoors as possible.

Thank you to every subject in this project!

Wishing you a happy week filled with thanks and gratitude!