Last night, my daughter was inducted into the Japanese National Honor Society (pre-college chapter) as the President. Her sensei prepared these lovely rice balls after the ceremony and I thought, "how nice that it fits into my selective color theme this month." I didn't have to do much to the photo as the rice, sesame seeds, and seaweed took care of the black and white and the beautiful box she had it in was red! The table cloth was even red! I used my nifty-fifty for the evening and I enjoyed taking photos of the entire ceremony with some nice portrait shots as well.
This morning, I received an order of cards I placed with His and Hers photography (Ross Walker here on 365). I asked him to make a set of cards from this amazing photo that has been one of my favorites ever here on the site (you have to see it): http://365project.org/rvwalker/365/2013-11-13
I am going to use the cards to send out thank you notices to family who sent condolences after my mother-in-law's death at Christmas. Life has been hard here trying to put things in order and to reflect on some of the messes that currently exist in my home. I look around my house and see the piles of things stuffed in closets, or in cupboards, or just lying all over the house, and I know that I don't want someone to have to go through all of this when I pass some day. Let's just say, I've gone through others' belongings too many times, and when I see my stuff, I get very overwhelmed.
Overwhelmed is the word I've been using for over a month now. Today, a kind friend is coming to help me sort the messes. I have amazing friends. And for that, I'm awful thankful. Have a nice weekend everyone!
Poignant entry, Daryl, I feel for you. I love the shot and duh, just realized your theme this month. Great idea! Thanks for the lead to Ross's photo -- I'd not been following him then and totally missed it.
@taffy I really wish I could participate in the bookclub as I'm working on b&w and selective color, but I just haven't had time to get another book on my list to read. It's nice to have as a "to read" book though! Ross's photos are so inspiring, and that shot looks incredible on my cards. I'm saving one "just for me." :)
Great shot Daryl I have never seen these before. Lovley focus and dof!! You are doing really well with your theme this month. Are you doing the SC in the camera or in the editing stage? It must be very hard for you after all the shock you and your family had over Christmas. I am pleased you have good friends who can be there for you!!
@pamknowler Thanks very much Pam! The SC is in the editing phase. I've been experimenting in LR5 and I wanted to see how I could pull a color back out after taking the vibrance to close to nil. I can also use a radial filter or graduated filter or all of the above. I like how the few shots I've taken have worked so far. Thanks also for your kind words. My friends are the best. I wish I was not struggling so much, but I just AM. :/
Great foodie shot! Congrats to your daughter! As to your home, take one day at a time. I believe if you just set a goal a day, whether it be a drawer, box, room, etc. it will be physically & mentally less stressful & not as overwhelming.
@kathysview Thanks, we got the Christmas decorations put away (yes, I still had them all up outside), the linen closet, and my armoire done. One day at a time. :)
First, another great shot. Second, perfect photo for you to select for your cards. I commend you for going through your "stuff". I think I am in a similar place. After helping my parents downsize and get overwhelmed with their STUFF (especially things my Dad won't let go), I have spent the last two months tossing things and scanning paperwork. Good luck on your mission.
Wonderful food shot! Looks yummy! If I lived closer I'd come help you with your "messes". I'm a master organizer and love to purge. Good luck with your chores!
Dear Daryl, if I was there, I'd help you. It is overwhelming. We're of an age that we are becoming parents to our parents. I'm sorry I missed knowing about your loss. BTW, I've been meaning to tell you I love your new profile shot.
@twistergirl Thanks Doris. My mother-in-law lived in Mexico in a house filled with more stuff and junk than any person should ever have. I was by myself, weeding through paper, books, beads, boxes, boxes, boxes, and other things not mentionable. I just hit a wall. I have cleared three estates now. I'm done. So now, I have to pull my stuff together and get on. Thanks for the kind words. I am really relying on friends until I can get some other help at the moment. I'm just so glad they aren't judging me. I've got big messes.
@nanderson Thanks! I wish I did cook these, but my daughter's teacher did. I love riceballs and they are really very easy to make! But all credit goes to her "sensei" :) I just took the shot.
A delicious looking photo! Yay for friends! I am currently helping a very busy friend pack for a house move and I can see the relief on her face with every full box. Hope your declutter session makes you feel much better about everything.
(Linda, @se7en , Mondays)
A great shot to mark a wonderful achievement by your daughter, Daryl. Congratulations!
As for the rest of your commentary - oh dear, I know exactly what you mean about others having to go through your things. I've been having the same thoughts recently but just cannot bring myself to throw away anything! My life is so very cluttered at the mment! Good luck!
Thanks for the great comments on the dune photo, Daryl. I'm glad you like the cards. I just turned the computer on for the first time since Thursday, and that was a pleasant way to start my day. I like the story behind your food photo. What an honor for your daughter! You probably recall that we have a Japanese connection too.
Fabulous capture. I know what you mean about being overwhelmed by all the mess. Two moves in two years and I'm tired of unpacking, but I can't find anything! It can wear you out!
Love this! Congrats to your daughter. The overwhelmed feeling from clearing estates. Been there. And vow not to leave that kind of situation for my kids. But I married a man with 40 years of stuff....
February 14th, 2014
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So glad that you have friends around to help. All of those processes can be overwhelming, and I am glad you have support.
(Linda, @se7en , Mondays)
As for the rest of your commentary - oh dear, I know exactly what you mean about others having to go through your things. I've been having the same thoughts recently but just cannot bring myself to throw away anything! My life is so very cluttered at the mment! Good luck!
What a terrific natural SC shot. Nice of the sensei to to provide you with something you could post sooc!