Learning

Hello friends,

I’ve made a decision. No, I’m not quitting this blog. I’ve joined Instagram. I know, it was me who listed all the evils of social media in this post. And believe me, I went back and forth on this decision many times. What tipped me toward the “do it” side was the need to grow in my photography. My understanding of the craft is still nascent. And I could stay right here in this little comfort zone, posting my photos here and having my loved ones say, “I love your photos!” But I want to get better, and in order to do that I can’t hide myself away. I need to show my work to others and to learn from them. So, I started a new account on Instagram this week. Here is a link to it. I’m going to post one photo a day, many of which I’ve already posted on here, since I don’t create one share-worthy photo each day. There’s so much for me to learn, and it can be daunting in a way – but it’s also exciting to know that I have so much room for improvement and growth.

I spent some time in Massachusetts and Connecticut recently, connecting with family and getting a much needed break from work. Next month I’ll be spending a week in New Zealand. One week is a ridiculously short amount of time to spend in a destination approximately 9,000 miles away, but that’s all I have left of my paid time off this year. I’m making it easier on myself by not taking checked luggage. I am taking one carry-on bag, which will basically contain all of my camera gear, a stained-glass piece of art my sister made for me (for the new house), and some underwear. Priorities!

In my last post I spoke of struggling. I think I will always struggle through this life to a certain extent. I don’t find being human all that easy, but I work on it every single day. I try to find moments of beauty, of awe, of humor, of connection with other people and with my place in the natural world. I try to grow and learn, to get stronger in body, mind, and spirit. Let’s face it, life is an endurance sport. To quote Taylor Swift, “life is emotionally abusive.” You have to be strong to make it through. I’m hanging in there, and I hope you are too. Part of why I try to be honest about my struggles here is in case you are struggling too. To let you know you’re not alone.

Love,

Michelle xoxo