• I’ve made it through a break-up of a long-term relationship.
• I’ve lost 45 pounds and counting!
• I’ve made some AMAZING new friends that I couldn’t imagine not being in my life.
• I moved in with my two best friends, and am loving every day of it.
• I’ve learned to laugh at myself a little more; stress out a little less.
• I’ve made some pretty big personal/career goals.
• I like my self more than I ever have – and that is an incredible feeling.
• I’ve picked up my camera every single day for an entire year – and I’m pretty sure that there is no going back.

This past year has been one of the best yet!  I am still in shock that this project is over.  I’ve put a lot of time and effort into it – and I am so glad that I did.  Looking back at Day 1 – I remember how timid and unsure I was of this project.  I didn’t think I could make it amount to anything.  Then as I pushed myself to keep going, I realized that I could put worth in it no matter what anyone else may have thought about it.

Luckily I had some awesome and wonderful people who took time out of their lives to follow my project.  They offered compliments, suggestions, criticism and friendship.  That was one of the most rewarding parts of this project…learning who was actually interested in my passion, and cared enough about me to continue to support me.  I have to say “thank you” (and times that by a million) to all of you who have been generous enough to look at my blog.  I appreciate it more than words could ever say.

Now it’s over!  365 whole days of photos that I thought to take and share.  As my last photo of the year, I chose this one of my favorite necklace.  It has been a symbol of my life…or at least what I strive for in life.  Please, no drama.  No bullshit.  Just be laid-back and enjoy the ride.  And as for that ride…….lets see where its going to take me!  Perhaps to another year of photos?

*Gothan:  I know this isn’t the photo we discussed as the last hoorah.  Maybe I can throw that idea into my next project?  Then you’d have to look at it AT LEAST once, right?

“No great artist ever sees things as they really are.  If he did, he would cease to be an artist.”

-Oscar Wilde

I know I’ve had some questionable photos over the past year. YEAR. I still can’t believe it. In the end, I feel as though I’ve grown as a photographer…but also realized how much more I have to learn and how much better I can strive to be. At least I know my passion for photography has become bigger and better, and my capability to take criticism has matured greatly.

(08-02-10)

“Ah, summer, what power you have to make us suffer and like it.”

-Russel Baker

(08-01-10)

(07-31-10)

I’m not even sure how that is possible, because the last time I checked gravity didn’t pull things sideways. I’m not going to try to figure it out though. I’m ok with just checking it out and going “Cool.”

(07-30-10)

As Nicole read me the label…all I could think was: “That is fucking awesome!” So we made the mutual decision that this wine HAD to be purchased. Paired with homemade nachos – we had a lovely evening. Thursday’s should be like that more often.

(07-29-10)

The outdoor lighting is very cool. I tried several different shots trying to get something pimp incorporating the trees and the lights. It was more difficult that I had thought. This shot ended up being my favorite of the evening.

Another one of those shots that documents the every day shit. 1/2 of my bookcase. I love to read, and I adore my collection of books.