Though I should feel immensely thrilled, I've discovered a bit of "postpartum" blues as a result. My brother, who is an author ("Better Off" by Eric Brende), says this is not uncommon. It's affecting everything, including photography. It's taken every ounce of my mental energy over the last year and a half. Photography is the one thing that has replenished me through the process. But, now that it's done, I feel a huge void, and have found a surprising loss of joy in photography. Plus, I just haven't been able to keep up with commenting.
And, on a final note, I regret the discussion I started last week about asking Ross to consider changing his policy of up to three photos per photographer on the TT, to one per photographer to allow more individual photographers' works to be showcased in such a manner. I think it caused a kind soul or two to take offense. It also made me realize that in this journey, I let the simple joy of posting photos and getting a few "favs" here and there resort to being driven to make it to the TT. And now I see how ridiculous that is.
If any of you have actually read this post to the very end, thanks for taking the time. I know we're all super busy people. But I could use a prayer or two. And maybe some sunshine. Love you all. :)
Congratulations on finishing your book. That is quite an accomplishment. The sun is out at my house hopefully it is at yours. Keep up the good work on the photos. I know it is hard this time of year but you will not regret finishing the project. BTW I like the red cardinal.
Love your pop of red in a dreary day - it does help the mind to see colour! Congratulations on your book. I didn't know you were doing one. I shall look at it in a few days as I 'm off to Melbourne (3 hours away) yet again for the weekend! Thanks for your honesty too - I don't get involved in the chats etc of this site - I just love it for my personal challenge and the joy of "meeting" and looking at so many other photos from across the world. Hope your enthusiasm is revitalized soon as I've loved your photos from Kansas :)
Hang in there, Kareen. You'll find your motivation and purpose again. This is the soul's time to rest, empty as that feels right now. I will indeed hold you up in prayer.
Prayers on the way...Love the pop of red. Don't fret about the discussion...remember, it's just an algorithm. Hope you feel better soon. I've visited your "golden experience" website. I love "Too Old To Cry" ... prompted an immediate visit to my parents who are approaching 90 but still live unassisted in their home of 60+ years. I also took comfort in your writings on dementia and Alzheimers. My father was just diagnosed with dementia, but he still mostly has good days. I do hope you can look at your photography as therapy. I started as a way to stay in touch with youngest when she left for college. On those lonely, sad days, photography takes my mind away and I come away with my spirits lifted. Sorry for the lengthy response ...
Sending hugs and prayers to you Kareen. Well done on completing your book - huge achievement. I personally agree totally with your post regarding the TT and if anyone has taken exception to it, that is their problem in my opinion. I haven't commented much lately as my project is on a back burner at the moment due to issues I have been dealing with this year around my husband's health, but I thoroughly enjoy all your beautiful photos, so will be pleased if you keep them coming!
Congratulations, Kareen, on the publication of your book. I am a writer and what you speak of is very common - kind of an anti-climatic depression. You WILL climb out of it and you will find joy again - its just that these things take a mental and emotional toll that were are not aware of until we are joyless. There IS light as the end of the tunnel.
But, despite all that, your little red spot of bird has brightened MY day.
I for one would be very sorry not to see your pictures daily, your little part of the world is so beautiful and the chances are I will never get to travel there or many other places. Your photos give me a little piece of Kansas, I hope I can give you a little piece of Suffolk. X
@kareenking My website with most of my published pieces (I think I am a little behind on the updating) is www.intothewildwriting.com
Just a note, that there are more published works under 'more' that usually get missed. I would be very honoured if you visited it.
Oh, I completely relate. It started when my phone self cracked. Being without a job (but have enough money to make it for now) and disappointments in life have been especially hard for me around this Christmas time. I will pray for you. It has been said that folks with ADD get this feeling too when they've done something real well or ? Things will get better. I will pray for you. Blessings.
Also--if you get around to it and feel like it.....given feeling down now....what are your degrees in? I have a basic B.S. but have worked with seniors for16+ years. Those with Alzheimers and dementia are especially close to my heart and I've been given a gift relating to them, helping them feel loved and appreciated and like a regular person, and drawing them out. It brings me such joy. You must be a compassionate person, as am I, to write such a book. I went to site but didn't know how to see book, but will go back and try again.
I WILL stop writing after this one. I found out what your degrees where in. I was an Activity Dir. for 8+ years and a private companion/caregiver for 8+. I absolutely love being an Act. Dir. Will have to buy your book.
@creativeaddict Laur, so great to hear from you. I see we are of kindred spirit! How lovely that you have experienced the beauty of drawing out our elders, and those with dementia. Just last night I led a large group of carolers who sang for two nursing homes, one of which was horribly institutional. What a difference it made to those who received a personal outreach - eye contact, handshake, hug, and genuine connection. Am not sure where you looked for my book, either my website or the ArtAge senior theatre website. So, here's the direct link: http://www.seniortheatre.com/product/engage-28-creative-enrichment-experiences-older-adults/
@fugitivemoments Oh my goodness, Linda! I read your homepage and am intrigued! Your writing style is so artistic, aesthetic. I really resonate with your words and am curious about the crow. I have an incredible story that is based on a dream that wound up being realized, and it involves the theme of crow. The "Fear of Drowning" piece is tragic, yet fascinating. I shall read more. Just wanted you to know, however, that I checked it out and intend on exploring it further. I also keep a blog, though only post about once a month anymore. The writing of the book over the past year and a half demanded so much mental and emotional energy, that the blog became a chore, rather than a delight to maintain. However, I'm proud of it nonetheless. Here's a piece that reveals the heart of what it's about, if you care to read: http://www.thegoldenexperience.com/how-i-met-my-sunshine-a-memoir-on-connecting-with-an-individual-with-dementia/
Anyway, thanks so much for sharing!!!! Am excited to get to know you!
@kareenking Took a look at your website, Kareen. How I Met My Sunshine was a heart-rending and heart-lifting story. Very well-written especially because you put your heart in it and let your soul shine through. Good work! I am very impressed .
December 16th, 2014
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But, despite all that, your little red spot of bird has brightened MY day.
Just a note, that there are more published works under 'more' that usually get missed. I would be very honoured if you visited it.
Anyway, thanks so much for sharing!!!! Am excited to get to know you!