Around the corner.

It's always easier to talk about things in retrospect, isn't it? We like to summarize events later, after time has had a chance to diminish the intensity of emotion. Not knowing is hard. But as Jen said, "to not know is our truest state". A friend called me last week with the news that someone I knew as a child had suddenly passed away at 40. My memory of her was from a time when life seemed endless. Now she's abruptly gone. There have also been significant events in my own life that have highlighted the brevity of time for me. And it overcomes me with the dichotomy of wanting to do everything-all-at-once-now-now-now. And the sense that nothing-really-matters-that-much-so-let-it-Be. Be. Be. And while it's strange to feel like I need to simultaneously grab on, and let go, I think this is what it means to do what you can, then surrender to the result.

With all these realizations, have also come hard questions like, "what really moves and inspires me?". With regard to my work, the answer is easy: people who have managed to design their lives in a way that incorporates passion, art, activism, and purpose. So I'm setting out to photograph and interview a few fascinating women. They are women who I find amazing not only for what they've done, but for who they are, as complex and multi-faceted. I don't know what will come of it. I don't have the cleaned-up retrospect version of an end result. And I'm also totally okay with that.

To make life sweeter, my amazing, unconditionally supportive husband is completely behind me on this crazy adventure. He's actually the one who's been prompting me to go for it. So I feel gratitude, and also the intoxicating sense that sometimes life is more fun when you can't see around the corner.  

Where I will be in October: 

Winnipeg, Canada (woot! back atchya!)

Eugene, OR

Orange County, CA

San Francisco, CA

Sacramento, CA

My time is really limited in every spot, but there might be room for a photo session or two. If you're interested, please email me at admin@relishportraitstudio.com.

:)  Peace

p.s. If you've been reading this blog for a while, you might remember this painting. They are dandelions that Jason mistook for sunflowers. It holds special meaning for me as a reminder that we all don't see things the same way. And that it's also completely OKAY. 

Comments

[Brandi]

"...do what you can, then surrender to the result." I like that. That may become my new mantra.

[Leah]

Oh my my. I always loved this blog, but I am digging it something fierce today. I like this - I really, really like this. I'll post about this tomorrow, methinks.

[Kal Barteski]

YAY! CANADA! I am so excited about this. I don't think I'll need to drink coffee for the entire month of September - I've got such a buzz from this. Woot!

[Trude]

Woo OC! It's usually lovely in October. If you want food/visit recommendations, just holla! :)

[~Kristina]

i am with Kal... although i would love to buy you a coffee just to meet you.

[Stephanie Fox]

Insightful and inspiring. Carpe diem.

[Miss Spell]

I believe the graphic should read "becoming."

[Melissa]

HOORAY for San Francisco! I can't wait to see you! Love ya!

[Jen A.]

I am so inspired by your future adventures. Yay for you...for following your dreams and passions...and for your supportive other half who will hold down the fort while you are out exploring and adventuring. So incredibly wonderful. I'm a big "Kal" blog follower (have some of her prints in my house, in fact), so I will be particularly excited to see you two unite!

xo.

[Christina]

I am really sorry for your loss. Your are truly inspiring!!!!

[jen]

UGG, so wish you were going to be in SF in Nov. since we will have moved by then! Maybe we will see you next time!

[melissa]

I so identify with that quote, it's one of my favorites In a world that is always trying to tell you what you SHOULD want to be the most brave thing to do is quietly ignore the hype and learn what you love and what you thrive on that is I think the most beautiful thing you can do for yourself, those you love and the world at large.. if everyone did that imagine the possibilities!

[Heather]

Hey, why don't you make a stop over to Jordan! :-) We would love to have you here.