When a photo means something and brings joy.

June 23rd, 2012
I took this photo of the neighbors horses and thought it was quite good and with 308 views 76 comments and 42 Favs, I think you liked it too. I don't know the neighbor except for a wave or greeting at local functions. I do know that a year ago her teenage son shot his girlfriend and mother of his baby and then took his own life. As a mother of a son I can not imagine her grief. She heard the first shot and witnessed the second. We went to the funeral but haven't spoke since. When I printed this photo I really wanted to give her a copy. I framed it and had it on the counter but couldn't find the courage to offer it. Not knowing her and feeling odd thinking my photo was good enough, it sat there. Yesterday I decided that I framed it for her and I was going to offer it. I called and asked to stop over. I am sure she wondered what I was up to. We had a nice visit, and she loved it. What I didn't know was that these two horses are mom and son and the mom is close to the end of her life. My new friend showed me where she had a place on the wall where she wanted to put a photo of her horses. I filled that spot. If 365 has given me the confidence to have moments like this it has all been worth it. Thank you for your support and education.
June 23rd, 2012
it always make me sad to hear stories like your neighbour's son. we will never know what goes on in their minds. but i'm so glad that you found the courage to go see her with this photograph, this is one of your best shots, jann. you have great eye for set up and composition, don't you ever forget that. and i know you will make something out of your experience here. and soon! keep up the good work. you're one of the best around here.
June 23rd, 2012
I figure it is better to ask or to give and they don't want it than not to try and they might have wanted it. This is such a sad story about her son and what he did. Don't know how people live through that.
June 23rd, 2012


It amazes me how many of my photos people comment on, how many friends like them, but for me I am so thankful that I am a photographer and that I have so many beautiful shots of my beautiful boy... they have always meant a lot but since losing him in a car accident 9 weeks a go they mean so much more...
June 23rd, 2012
Amazing story. You never know how you will touch someone's life. 365 gave you the opportunity to make a difference! This terrific shot is so much more than just a photo now!
June 23rd, 2012
amazing amazing story. It brought tears to my eyes..... what a fabulous photo, that not only is a great one for you, but will be cherished by your neighbor :-)
June 23rd, 2012
@jannkc what a sad but beautiful story Jann, i'm so glad you worked up the courage to give her the print. i bet it made you as happy to give it as it did for her to receive it:) I loved this photo the moment i saw it!
June 23rd, 2012
@frameit What an amazing way to remember him. I'm sure it doesn't take away the immense pain, but I hope it brings you some joy in your memories.
June 23rd, 2012
Well done Jann, that story was a difficult one for people in this area, your gift was unlike many could give, something that mother will hold for many years.
June 23rd, 2012
@frameit Sending peace, prayers and tears.
June 23rd, 2012
I can't imagine what those who have had to bury their children are going through. We aren't meant to do that.
Presenting her with that beautiful image that has such meaning for her was a wonderful thing to do. As you said, it filled a spot for her.
What a very thoughtful thing to do.
June 23rd, 2012
@frameit I am so sorry Tracy. I can't begin to imagine your sorrow. This is a great photo of your son. I hope it finds a prominent place in your home. Tearful hug to you.
June 23rd, 2012
@jannkc How wonderful that you did that!
June 23rd, 2012
@frameit That is an awesome photo of you son. I can't imagine your sorrow, but I will be praying for you.
June 23rd, 2012
Deb
@jannkc Very touching story! That was such a thoughtful thing for you to do, and I can imagine how much she appreciated it.
June 23rd, 2012
Deb
@frameit Sorry for your loss, Tracy. Beautiful photo of your son.
June 23rd, 2012
@jannkc @frameit Both such touching stories and tributes to the power of photography.
June 23rd, 2012
Jen
@jannkc Such a sad story, but this shot, and your gift was meant to be..
June 23rd, 2012
Jen
@frameit So sorry for your loss.. thinking of you. I am so glad you have these wonderful shots of your son, they are precious. (hug)
June 23rd, 2012
Jen


This shot was sent to me just when I needed it..
June 23rd, 2012
@frameit @jannkc @fungirlslim Thank you for sharing these wonderful photos and the stories that go with them. They are very moving.

Tracy, I am so sorry for your loss, what a magnificent photo to remember your son by.
June 23rd, 2012
Jann, what a emotional story. I'm sitting here crying with a big lump in my throat. I'm sure it will be a treasured photo and it's so wonderful that you put so much thought into giving it.
Write a Reply
Sign up for a free account or Sign in to post a comment.