I’ve got to take a jungle segway here and start our Running on Empty Contest for the May Discovery Workshop in San Francisco! Remember…the Discovery Workshop in San Francisco! 🙂
We’ve been so occupied with life in Thailand that we haven’t mentioned it much on the blog, but ladies, the dates are coming!!
The countdown for the workshop has begun! As of today, we have 32 days until the workshop starts! Woo hoo!!!
We are so excited about this workshop, and more than ever Brian and I are excited to start the Running on Empty Contest! We have GREAT news! There are THREE ways to win this time!
We’re going to do what we always do. We’ll have you nominate a friend, wife, sister, or yourself (don’t be shy–your worth winning!) in the comments of TODAY’S post.
BUT, you MUST include a contact email in their nomination. If there is no contact email, the nomination will be DISQUALIFIED. Please don’t miss this important detail! We want the winners to be able to come, but if we can’t get a hold of them or you, we’re stuck. So please, please, please include their contact email or yours in their nomination.
Now to explain the good news! One of our former workshp attendees felt inspired to donate funds for two women to attend the workshop with a matching grant. This means, we have the funds to pay for HALF of the workshop for TWO women! Isn’t that an incredibly generous gift, especially in crazy economic times! This former attendee has a heart of gold and believes that this workshop will be amazing. This is part of what she emailed me;
“I’ve been blessed enough to be able to do take your workshop…What touched me most to do it is knowing people couldn’t afford it, but obviously want to go as badly as I do!”
We can’t thank her enough for her generosity.
The beautiful bottom line is that we have three prizes!
One woman will win the full enchilada! Her workshop tuition for three full days with me, Brian, Rick Chapman and Garrett Burdick will be COMPLETLY paid for! Garrett and his lovely wife have offered a spare bedroom in their house if the winner needs a place to stay. And you get to ride with Garrett everyday to the workshop! The Sonoma Workshp ladies will all vouche for what an AWESOME guy Garrett is. If the winner lives local, but one of the other two winners don’t, Garrett is more than happy to offer his spare bedroom to you! (thank you Garrett!)
Two runner ups will be given the opportunity to come to the workshop for HALF OFF and have this angel of a woman pay for your OTHER half!
Three women win! I’ve never been so excited to do a Running on Empty contest! We get to have THREE winners!
If you are new to our blog and not sure who this contest is for, I’ll explain below. If you already know the drill, nominate someone you love in the comments below. We are going to close submissions in 48 hours. So make sure you nominate someone today! We want to announce the winners by the end of the week!
For more details on the Discovery Workshp see below!
Official closing time for submissions is in 48 hours, Wednsday at 6am, PST!
Who is the Running on Empty contest for?
Here’s how it works! In honor of how wonderful moms are and all that they do and give, Brian and I have reserved three spots in the Discovery Workshop for a special mom YOU nominate! That’s right, one woman will get a free pass to the workshop. And two other women will recieve a matching grant that pays for half of the tuition!
To nominate a mom, you must post a comment in today’s post (before the 48 hour deadline) that tells us about the mom who you think deserves a big break in life! If your a mom, you’re probably laughing because we ALL deserve a serious break.
But the https://www.libertylending.com/ we’re looking for payday loans, finances or things just not going her way this year.
She is a mom in your life that needs a serious blessing to come her way. She needs a surprise giving her empty tank some fuel. If she is a woman that has miscarried, she is still a mom in my mind b/c I know her heart became a mother’s heart the moment she found out she was pregnant. I’m proud to say that our previous winners stepped out on a limb and nominated themselves.
Take courage in them and feel free to nominate yourself if you know you need a serious break. Who knows, you may have your house remodeled by Oprah! 
We’ll collect all the nominees, have a committee vote, and then announce the winner in this week! Nominate her today and turn her day around! Oh, wait! Don’t forget to let her know you’ve nominated her too!
If I was a mom nominated I’d love to know my friends were thinking of me whether I won or not!
Is the Discovery Workshop right for your nominee?
This will be a three day workshop, instead of our normal two day. Unlike our other workshps, we are asking women to come who have a good sense of camera basics. If you’ve watched both or can watch both Refuse to Say Cheese and Beyond the Green Box, prior to the workshop, you could do this workshop with ease! We are going to go deep into the heart of discovering our artist within. We’ll be working with award winning, Rick Chapman on portraiture. Brian and I will teach on Photo Coaching: how to help people relax in front of the camera. Garrett Burdick will help lead focus groups on topics like; difficult lighting, metering, marketing, getting a business off the ground.
All meals are covered in the workshop tuition! We start with a wine/appetizer Meet and Greet at Rick and Garrett’s beautiful, new, San Rafael Studio! And we spend the next couple days at Cavallo Point and the beautiful landscape of Stinson beach!
To see the Full Schedule, CLICK HERE!
hi there!
i nominate my dear friend, who recently just moved far away from me and i miss her terribly, kristin young. she has such a passion for photography, and i know this seminar would do her wonders!
kyoung97@mac.com
my email is: erin_yamabe@yahoo.com
i hope and pray that kristin will win!
I would like to nominate a special someone for the workshop. Her name is Julie Pasczykowski from JP-Photography. She is a wife, sister, mother of 4, grandmother, photographer, do it all-er! She is so inspiring to others. Her work is amazing and I would love for her business to grow even more with this workshop. She has been a great mentor to me and this workshop would be an excellent way to PAY her back! Please consider Julie for this wonderful gift. my email is memorymakernancy@verizon.net
Okay – so I was going to nominate myself because it’s been a hell of a few years and this would be wonderful – but I would like to nominate my good friend Leslie Webber. She’s been through a workshop of yours before, but I think she deserves this time for herself to develop and build her confidence. She has amazing talent, but like most moms she puts herself and the things she enjoys on a back burner. She’s an independent woman, but even independent ladies need a chance to be themselves. She takes care of the kids and her home and all that comes with it while her husband travels out of town to work each week. My husband did that for almost two years and it isn’t easy.
After losing my mom last year I met Leslie and she has become a wonderful friend and an asset to my life – knowing how important it is to put yourself first – I nominate Leslie so she takes that time – all while building on a talent that is already present and accounted for!
Thanks!
Annie Page
ann@pennypickles.net
Leslie Webber
lwebber76@yahoo.com
32 DAYS!!! I am soooo excited to go! YEAH!!!
I would like to nominate my friend Kelly Sauer. Kelly is a wonderful, self-taught photographer and mom whose life is more difficult than most anyone I know. She started experiencing strange physical symptoms when she was young – a teenager – and after years of going undiagnosed and misdiagnosed (and told it was all in her head), she dropped out of college halfway through due to Lyme disease and hormonal imbalance. She will probably never be able to finish school because of her health problems. She was able to get pregnant and has an almost two-year-old daughter, but ever since her daughter’s birth she has experienced severe postpartum depression and a worsening of physical symptoms that makes even the most mundane tasks difficult.
Photography is her lifeline, her way to feel normal and feel the beauty around her. She shoots a few weddings a year and experiences the beauty of life through her lens on a daily basis. She and her husband don’t have much money – most of it has been taken up with medical costs, and she can’t work very much – so there’s no way she could ever afford a workshop like this on her own. But I know she would love it and it would give her soul and her photography a boost.
Kelly Sauer: kassie.sauer@gmail.com
My email: wilddreamergrl@gmail.com
On this quiet Minnesota Monday morning, I wish to nominate myself for your Running on Empty contest. I can’t recount a tragedy that I have recently experienced or a serious financial downfall for my family as so many deserving nominees can. I can say that I am Running on Empty due to lack of support. I am pretty average; I am a mom, a wife, a sister, and a daughter. I spend my days commuting 2 hours a day to a full time job, return home to a few precious hours with my son. After laying him down in bed at the end of the day, I spend as many hours as I can keep my eyes open learning about photography, reading blogs, skill practicing, and editing photos. That alone is exhausting, as many of your readers know. The most draining part for me is that all those closest to me, the ones that I should be able to lean on; don’t believe that I can make it. My husband, the realist, thinks it’s a pipe dream, something that won’t take us anywhere. He wants to keep things status quo! I know he would not let me go to this workshop on our dime. Your contest is my only hope of ever attending. My mom and sisters are full of so many hollow praises that I don’t even ask them to look at my work any longer. The hardest part is trying to keep fueling the fire when I am the only one providing kindling. My wish is to come to your workshop and be immersed in the passion that all of your attendees and yourself have for photography, to keep me going, fueled and focused. This would be an absolute dream come true. Thank you for such a generous contest and offer. And thank you to the angel that is offering the tuition for 2 lucky ladies.
Julie Feldman
ciderpressstudios@gmail.com
I’d like to nominate myself 🙂 I’ve been shooting professionally for about a year and love it! I’ve worked hard to develop my business, increase my knowledge and skills, and most of all–to give back.
I was blessed in the beginning of my new found love of photography to meet a pro photog who willingly traded 8 months of weekly private camera lessons for piano lessons (I’m a master degree musician). I felt so blessed to receive one on one training and to have a teacher, that now, two years later, I also teach private lessons and just began teaching month long photography classes for those in my community wanting to learn more about their cameras and how to take better pictures of their family.
I love teaching (I’ve taught piano lessons for 15 years) and love that I can now take that love of teaching into the world of photography. I love to see my students get excited about learning to shoot in manual, about becoming more artistic and creative, and developing and honing a talent. It has been so rewarding.
One of the reasons that I have gone the route of teaching is that we have recently found out that I am pregnant! I’m going to be a mom! We’re so excited about this new direction our lives are taking, but at the same time, I realize the many changes it will involve for me and my business. I have stopped accepting weddings (since I want to be able to stay at home as much as possible with my baby) and have focused more on portraits and teaching. We are in the midst of looking to buy a home in the town my husband will be going to graduate school in for the next few years. With a new home purchase, expecting our first child, and the burden of me supporting our family for the next three years, finances and stress are becoming new delightful concerns 🙂
I would love to be able to attend your workshop to not only help develop my own skills, but to be able to pass the same enthusiasm, joy, and knowledge onto my other students. (A gift that would keep on giving! 🙂 I’m sure I could also pick up several teaching tools from you all!
I admire your work so much, and also admire your own willingness to give back and teach and help others. Thank you so much for the opportunity!
Sincerely,
Brooke Snow
brooke@brookesnowphoto.com
brookesnowphoto.com
blog.brookesnowphoto.com
I would like to shamelessly nominate myself.
I am a happily married, homeschooling mother to four children ( ages 6,2,1,and 1week.1day) . I usually hate to admit it but I am very very stressed and tired. My husband works two jobs, so at times I feel like a single mom. You see, the thing is… I am only 23 (as of January) and my plate is quite full. My faith and my passion for art and photography keep me going.
It would be a blessing to attend your workshop.
I would like to nominate my friend, Janessa and myself. We are new moms and our babies were born two weeks apart, last June. We have spent the last 10 months getting used to motherhood and juggling life. With both of us working full time, we have tried to get together as much as possible to watch the DVD’s, practice our skills, and finally we have both had an “Ah hah” moment with our cameras. With little time to shoot while wrangling our cuties, this would be a great opportunity for some time away while doing something we love. Thanks
Moriah Dunning
moriahdunnign@yahoo.com
Janessa Oriol
janessao@gmail.com
The Discovery Workshop is something I REALLY want to do. I’ve been a self-employed photographer for five years now, and for a long time I’ve felt ready to take my business to the next level. I just haven’t known how, or where to look for inspiration. Then I found you, Me Ra, your blog, your 101 kits… and the pieces are starting to come together. When you announced the Discovery Workshop, I knew this would be a mind-blowing experience that would redefine me as a woman, an artist, and a business owner.
So why didn’t I register? The first and biggest obstacle was the bank account. My husband and I have been leaning on our business income to supplement our family budget more and more in the past year, and pulling out workshop and travel expenses just seemed too large an expense to be feasible. We talked this over a LOT, and in the end, decided that this was not the year to make such a large investment.
The second obstacle is my first and most important job of being a mom. My son is 18 months old and STILL not sleeping through the night. I’m also still nursing. I worried that leaving for the weekend would be too stressful for my family. But family life is quickly changing, as we recently discovered that we’ll have a new addition joining our family in November. This has really changed my perspective on getting away, as I know that once the new baby comes, it will only get more difficult. I feel like NOW is the time for me to get away and invest in myself.
My closest friend, Rebecca, helped me think through some of these issues, and she wrote me this email:
There are a bunch of reasons why I think you should go:
* It seems like the weekend is built with some time for quiet reflection, so you would have an opportunity to simply recharge in addition to all the great photography stuff I have often thought, when talking to you and hearing at times that you are weary of being Aaron’s full-time mommy, that what you could really use is a couple days away. I know it will be hard to leave the little guy for the first time, but I’ve heard other moms say that a day or two away now and then gives them perspective and makes them excited to get back to the job of being mommy that they really love so much. Taking a break from being a mommy makes them a better mommy.
* Me Ra sounds amazing and definitely like her perspectives and insight would benefit you as an artist, you as a photographer (technical) and you as a person.
* The Bay Area is a very cool place and I think you would love soaking up the vibe for a few days. Not to mention it’s very photogenic.
* The cost is high, but it’s clear that it’s a high-class weekend – meals included, details considered, beautiful locations and great sessions.
* I know you have some things to consider here, but my sense is that this would be a weekend that you would carry with you for a long time… for the above reasons plus more. It’s a risk in a few ways, but… I don’t think you’ll regret it.
Rebecca’s is right – I won’t regret the time invested in myself and my craft. This Angel Donor has overcome one of my obstacles by helping to finance the experience, and I’m willing to meet her by stepping up to the other obstacle head on. Leaving my family for a weekend will not be an easy thing, but it’s not getting easier any time soon, so now’s the time to tackle it. I’m ready for the challenge!
I would like to nominate Kimberlyn Totten of Lifesong Photography for the running on empty contest. I met Kimberlyn through your blog (Yay! For women connecting through Me Ra!) a little more than a year ago after seeing her name a few times in comments I clicked her link. I felt an instant connection after reading a post about a song both of our grandmothers were known to sing.
I remember after reading a few posts that day, how genuine, kind and full of spirit she is, that on top of her gorgeous smile and my heart became kindered! Since then her family has moved from their home in Washington to a new beginning in Oregon. Though quite a transition for the family and while missing home she looked towards the positive keeping her love for photography alive by capturing new people and places. Feeling convicted to help those in need she began working will “Bambino’s” a local ministry aimed at providing basic need items for at risk pregnant women and in need families.
In January things really hit hard for her and her family, her childhood home that her parents still occupied was destroyed by fire. The farm they had loved and that had nourished their family was gone. Luckily her parents were unhurt but just a few days later her father had to undergo emergency surgery almost losing his life. While he is still battling health problems and her mother needing help with re building her life Kimberlyn has had to put her life on hold traveling back and forth from Oregon to Washington to be there for her parents! As if even one of these things weren’t stressful enough having all of these unimaginable things put on her plate at once she is about running on empty as one can be! Yet through all this she and her family have held tight to their faith and gratefulness for all the blessings they have in spite of the hardships around them.
There is nothing more warming than to here her father speak of “pure thankfulness” even as he thinks he’s dying! While I don’t really know Kimberlyn that well or her family I can say I am truly grateful for people like them in this world, ones that are humble, generous and that understands and receives their blessings. This year I can see no one more in need of an extra blessing than Kimberlyn! She would benefit greatly from the workshop and is in much need of time for herself and time to spend on her love for photography!
I hope you don’t mind but I’d like to share this blog passage she wrote which speaks volumes on the beauty that is Kimberlyn;
“When all is right in your life, do you take time to be truly thankful and appreciative?
Is impending disaster or unforeseen tragedy the only thing that brings you to your knees?
Do you take time everyday to thank God for his love, protection and plan for your life?
Do you have a heart of Intentional Gratitude?
These are just some of the questions whirling around in my head over the past few weeks. I am hopeful that through all this I am growing a heart of “Intentional Gratitude” more than ever before. All I know is God is God and I am not…I don’t understand why bad things are allowed to happen, but I choose to trust that God knows what he’s doing and his plan is much greater than mine. It was a month ago tonight that my parents home was on fire. The ruble still sits and life goes on.”
oops I forgot …
amdaobq@hotmail.com
kimbertot@msn.com
Hello! I would like to nominate my friend, Tam. She is a wonderfully strong woman who has been through multiple miscarriages, raised one daughter to adulthood (and is now a grandmother), is raising three other daughters and a son, has helped hundreds of kids along their way by being a foster mother, and has tirelessly trained herself in WAAAAY too much medical knowledge to help her son.
Her 15 year old son was not supposed to live past his toddler years. He is mentally 3-5 and will never be potty trained. Two and a half years ago he had a bone marrow transplant that saved his life but caused another slew of problems including seizures and thyroid problems that require she feed him specific foods. He also needs CONSTANT attention.
His ongoing medical needs plus the bone marrow transplant have put them in deep debt. They pay more to Duke hospital every month than their mortgage.
In the midst of all of this, her husband has heard the call and enrolled in seminary. She has started a photography business now so that she will have grown it enough to continue to pay the bills when her husband takes a job as a minister and their normal yearly income is sliced in half.
She really deserves not only time for herself, but also time with other women and time to further hone her skills.
Her life has been anything but easy, but she knows God is in control, leans on Him daily and is able to smile in the face of most anything.
Thank you.
Tam’s email: timelessbytam@gmail.com
I came here all set to enter my good friend, and I saw my name being nominated! Thank you Moriah, you’re a true, dear friend.
But, on to my mission. I have a dear friend, Kelly, of KellyM Photography, that is one of the most honest, open and beautiful women I know. She started KellyM Photography about 9 months ago (just a guess on the timing) and has done a great job ever since. I remember her and I talking about making this leap, into professional photography. She cited MeRa as one of the reasons she took the leap in turning her passion into her profession. Her husband is in a band and goes out on tour for weeks at a time and she’s able to be a fantastic Mother, photographer, friend and confidant while he’s gone. Right now, he’s out on tour, and has been for some time. She’s hitting a milestone birthday (I won’t tell!) days before the start of the Discovery workshop. This would be a beyond fabulous birthday present. I want to nominate her, I want to give her the best shot at winning, but I’m unable to come up with the right words.
Kelly is an unbelievable person, one that ‘runs on empty’ but is still able to find time for a friend. She, just like so many other mothers, puts herself last and her son, husband and friends first. I’m in awe of her strength, her determination and the fire in her eyes.
Even if she doesn’t win, thank you for giving me a public outlet to share the beauty of Kelly.
My email: janessao@gmail.com
Kelly’s email: Kelly@kellymphotography.com
website: http://www.kellymphotography.com/
So many great nominees!
I’m here because I want to nominate Michelle Slape!
I too met Michelle here on Me Ra’s site! At the time she lived in San Diego and was in the process of moving back here. I am so glad she did!
Michelle, on top of being an awesome photographer is a devoted wife and mom to two boys.
One of the things that really endeared Michelle to me was something she said on Facebook in a “25 Random Things About Me” Note:
“[Michelle] KNOWS that Cody’s Down Syndrome won’t stop him from doing whatever it is he wants to do in life – he just rocks like that”
That had me in tears.
Michelle is SHOWING her sons that if you put your mind to it you can achieve your dreams! Nothing can stop you. She seems to face all that life gives her with a strength and a spirit that is contagious!
I wish I was a better writer…
Michelle an awesome, sweet, funny, courageous woman that would really benefit from this workshop!
If anyone else that knows Michelle wants to add more… PLEASE DO!!!
Michelle’s e-mail: mrsphotography@gmail.com
Website: http://www.MRS-Photography.com
I would like to nominate myself for this great opportunity your angel is offering. I am a new mother, and this has been the hardest year of my life. Know one can prepare you for the change women experience as you cross over into motherhood. It is overwhelming with contradicting feelings and emotions. It took me ten months to get past the post partum depression, and loss of self. However, I can say after many prayers and a lot of soul searching I think I have found my groove. It isn’t any easier, but at least I can honestly say I am enjoying the journey of a mother. My husband gave me a camera for Mother’s Day last year, and I lost myself capturing sweet memories of my little girl. I had no idea it would lift my spirits the way it has, and I have this amazing collection of priceless expressions. After reading the other posts I realize there are many more deserving then I for this experience, but financially I would not be able to attend this seminar on my own. I have found myself again through capturing images of the ones I love, and aspire to do it professionally someday. What you and your angel are offering is a blessing to me. Thank you for considering me and for all the many smiles you leave me with on your fabulous blog. Sincerely, Lori John Lori1000x@yahoo.com
i would like to nominate my daughter, Lindy English Martineau. Lindy loves people and thrives on life…every facet of it…and it shows in her photography! She loves her work and that shows in her photography, too! She deserves to win this nomination because she works so hard to provide for her family; she is working to put her husband through school. She is a wonderful mum to a beautiful son, Cooper, who is smart, kind and loves life too. Lindy is passionate about learning all there is about the photography business but at this point in her life, she can’t possibly afford to take this class and that is why she deserves to win it. She will absorb all she can and it will definitely be reflected in her work and service in the future. Lindy has done so many kind things to others…she’s actually done a couple of weddings TO STRANGERS absolutely free because they couldn’t afford to hire a photographer and she believes everyone should have wonderful “memory” pictures of their wedding! Thank you for considering Lindy! check out http://www.lindyphotography.com Judi English31290
I am going ahead to nominate two persons.
Tammy, who is my “Mommy” friend, we meet when our firstborns were babies and our friendship have lasted even though we live half a world from each other for the moment (Internet is great!). I know she needs this break from the family circus. She needs time off from the family to develop her interest in photography. She is a lovely person with lots of creativity that needs to get out. And we all know how hard that is with little kids all over. I know this workshop would make her feel so good and give her lots of energy. The second reason is that I would love to do this with her.
So that means that the second nominee is myself 🙂 After moving from a suburb to San Francisco 1,5 years ago (to a little cold country in north of Europe) life has been a struggle. While having a husband with stress related problems I have given birth to our second son,been fighting financial trouble, having dreams crushed, living in a one bedroom apartment for the last 1,5 year with a family of four and at the same time I have been studying at the university. Despite all this I am getting close to the finish line of my education. My husband is feeling better and better for everyday, the time between his “bad” days gets longer and longer. And this summer we will finally move in to our new home, so I defiantly are beginning to see the light in the tunnel.
To get this opportunity with Tammy would be so refreshing, a new start. To get to spent some time together doing what we love. I don’t know how but somehow I would find the money for the airline ticket to US.
Even do we live far away from each other we have a little ongoing photo challenge. It is a blog were we (and some other friends)share photos from our everyday life with each. One photo telling something about our everydaylife for every week for the whole year. This is one way we are sharing our interest and inspire each other in photography despite the distance.
Thanks for reading!
Forgot!
Me again from the post above with two nominees. Just in case you’ll need it I thought I should leave my email adress 😉
linda.edman@gmail.com
and of course my friend’s
tammyvnguyen@yahoo.com
Take care!
i nominate the mother of three of my favorite grandkiddies:
kelli cree taureau@yahoo.com
and the mother of two of my favorite grandkiddies:
carolyn hubbard carolynbeth@yahoo.com
thank you for the opportunity….
s cree
After reading the information on the workshop and what a great opportunity it would be for the mom who’s “fuel is low,” I thought of my best friend. Her name is Shannon and she is a single mother of a sweet heart name Cameron. Shannon recently found out a few months ago like many other people across the states that her job would be ending soon. Problem is before finding out about her job she decided to follow her passion and purchase the camera of her dreams and take a photography class. What I thought was a problem for her was actually the drive of faith, courage, and hope which is something she teaches me every day and instills in her son. She manages to take care of everything on her own and never looks back. She has sinced continued with the photography class and believes it will work out. On the other hand she is human and we cry and laugh together about the situations of life that try to break her. She is a kind and generous friend who loves to capture moments in life and if there is a moment I could just capture and put it into her hands it would be this chance to attend your workshop.
Shannon
sbullock143@cox.net
I would like to nominate y Dear friend Shannon, she is a wonderful single mom to her son. She has a passion for photography and I would wish this for her. She is always thinking of others and often extends herself to help those in need. My wife and I are lucky to have such a person in our lives. Just as I believe that she deserves to win this contest.
Shannon
sbullock143@cox.net
ok… I’m about to get in trouble, but here goes.
I’m nominating the greatest person on the planet for the grant. But before I launch into my diatribe about this person, let me offer my thoughts and prayers to all those nominated. Times are tough indeed and all of these people certainly are deserving of this “break”… and my prayers to the judges, tough decisions ahead.
How does one who is so insanely private, express himself about the person who made him who he is… sounds cliche`… I know. But she is the reason for every single success I’ve had in my life. She put all of her dreams and desires on hold so I could pursue mine. And when I say all of her dreams… I mean exactly that. Then, as I became more “successful” we started a family, again, she put her dreams on hold to raise our girls. We’ve got the two most incredible little ladies because of her tireless dedication to them. Sometimes her giving heart is so incredibly big it drives me mad! Not going to lie… she’d put a complete stranger’s happiness before her own if there was even a hint it would improve that person’s life. I get mad… all the time. But that’s just her… she knows no other way.. and truthfully I wouldn’t want her any other way. She and I are complete opposites in that regard.
For the sake of something tangible to base the decision on, let me paint you a picture of her life over the last three years. I’m in the military and spent nearly the entire year (2008) in the middle east… the year before that (2007) I spent 6 months including Christmas and every birthday gone. So, how did 2009 start? I moved to Hawaii, WITHOUT my family. The housing market where we live is so bad we can’t sell or rent our home. And, of course, can’t afford two mortages… so they are there, and I am here… seperated again with no end in sight! Finacially, being split in two places, is a huge strain. What does this mean… her dream is once again on the back burner. She has extraordinary talent… many of you probably know that… but she hasn’t been able to launch because she is to busy carrying me and my life on her back. Picture the great Atlas, but instead of the globe… Me and two little girls and all our lives resting comfortably on her back… small beads of sweat running down her brow but she can’t wipe them away because she’s holding up our worlds on her back with both arms.
Before I was sent here, she wanted to attend this workshop. Once they changed my report date to Feb 09, that plan got blown out of the water. We didn’t know where they would be, Hawaii or Florida, when this workshop happened… so, with a heavy heart she decided to skip this one. She was devasted. But, like everything else she does, she took it on the chin and marched on. Unfortunately, we’ve learned that our seperation is going to be longer than we expected. I guess the good news is the door might have been opened for her to attend this conference…
For years I’ve been searching for a way… not just any way… but that magic “thing” I could do for her to put her over the top like she’s done for me. I never seem to find it. But I think this might be it… she deserves this more than anyone I could imagine. Are we facing tragedy like some of the folks already nominated? No, thank God. But if you’re looking to give this gift to a person who will take the gift and turn it into something powerful and something that will change lives… she’s your girl. Imagine her as a rocket on a launch pad, fueled and ready… she just needs someone with that match stick and she’s GONE!
I proudly nominate my life… Carrie. I know how badly she wants to go to this workshop. It would mean the world to her… she might even opt for the workshop over a trip to Hawaii… and her husband is here!!!
Me: hassonmc@yahoo.com
Her: caremat1@msn.com
I am here to nominate my best friend Lindy Martineau. She is the best mom i have ever met, she is fun, loving, and really down to earth. Shelooks for the best in everyone. She never looks down on anyone and she will always stick by your side through everything. Cooper, her son is a typical four year old, but Lindy pushes through it and is so patirent with him. Recently Lindy dislocated 4 vertabrae and 2 ribs, and was laying in agony for two weeks, but she still managed to get up and have fun with her son, and take pictures of clients. I’m not sure if you have heard but Lindy is the photographer who threw the free wedding about 6 months ago..She putalot of tme and effort into that wedding and that goes to show how passionate and caring she is about her business. She is one of the most amazing photographers i have met. She captures the smiles, and happiness of all she takes photos of. She is always open to new techniques and to learn something new. She is the perfect candidate for this free workshop. Check her out….
Her email is lindyphotography.com. I forgot to put that in there….
Hello, I came to you today to throw my little sis’s name in the hat for this workshop. Her name is Lindy Martineau.
She works very hard at her business trying to help support her family. Her husband is going to school and she puts all of her free time into trying to further her business by learning all she can about the art of photography. She has always been an artistic person, excelling in painting and sketching. She eventually moved into photography and needless to say, she really sucks and that’s why I am here. I think she could use all the help she can get. Ok actually that’s just a joke. She is very good and the great thing about her is that although she is good she is always trying to get better. I know that without this contest she would never be able to afford to come to your workshop and therefore this is the perfect oppertunity to help her out.
A little about her; In between feeding the homeless, reading to orphans and rescuing stray kittens she still finds time to be a devoted mother and wife, as well as run a business. In all seriousness, she does volunteer her time to help those in need, I know that she recently helped out a couple in need of a wedding by rounding up some of Boise’s Wedding vendors and with them plan and provide the services gratis. She is a great girl and a perfect nominee!
My name is Matt English
My email is menglish22@comcast.net
I would like to nominate a dear Family Friend Shannon Bullock, I have seen her and my sister grow up and have had the pleasure of her friendship. I have also seen her grow and mature as a single mom and find the passion of photography, I always knew she was good at it but with this opportunity i beleive it could change her life. Inspit of all her trials and tribulations she comes out on the other side smiling and the piliar of strength that encourages the rest of us to keep moving forward. In case you didn”t know she she is a fabulous woman coming into her own and we love her 🙂
me:deming2u@aol.com
her:sbullock143@cox.net
her email is sbullock143@cox.net
Wow…. here I am at the computer, still arguing with myself about nominating myself. I have read all the nominees… I sense the pain, desperation, strain, harsh-life realities… And I tell myself that I have it so good, there is no need to nominate myself with so many other seemingly more deserving ones than me. This isn’t false modesty speaking. This is the real-time conversation in my head. I had two other ladies, special OH-SO-DESERVING ones, in mind to nominate, but both are due with babies in the next month or so. So, here I am, back to me. And still arguing.
My husband has a job. We have a house. We have two precious healthy daughters. We are BLESSED. Not “rich” in American-dream terms, but not struggling like so many others right now.
So why me? It doesn’t take extreme tragedy to cause one to “run on empty.” It doesn’t always take financial distress, death, or pain. Honestly, it doesn’t take much. Motherhood and chronic illness has sucked it out of me…
For me, just as one of the other nominees states, it has been my transition into motherhood that has taken a huge toll on me in just about every way possible- spiritually, physically, mentally, and emotionally. Post-partum depression has been an unwelcome presence in my life after each of my babies were born (they are 3 and 1 now). For someone who has never had depression issues in her life before, this time was nearly overwhelming.
We moved from Europe to Arizona this past year and although there have been so many blessings associated with the move, it has been a hard time for me in many ways. I have been sick off and on for over a year now. I have been to every doctor I know of trying to decipher what the problem is… there have been more drugs this year than in the previous 29 combined (no exaggeration) and even surgery, but still the sickness lingers and rears its ugly head off and on consistently. Again, for someone who has never dealt with anything more than an occasional cold, this has been debilitating.
As for my business… I began it while living in Europe and it was a fantastic place to begin. Since I knew our time there was limited, I did not actively try to grow my business, but chose to wait until we were stateside again. To say that starting a business in a new city with zero contacts in the beginning has been incredibly slow is an INCREDIBLE understatement. I had baby # 2 three weeks after moving to Arizona. I gave myself some time to “adjust” to life with two before “getting back in the game” with my business. One year later… I am more than discouraged. I love what I do. I love photography for so many reasons and on so many levels. It has saved my sanity as a poorly-adjusting stay at home mom. I know I have a gift and I want to USE it and not waste it. But these last few weeks, I have come dangerously close to hanging up my cameras and just waiting until I figure out how on earth to balance life with two little ones, managing a home, and pursue a business that I really believe could thrive if given half a chance and if given the right kind of direction and effort.
I will not be attending the workshop without financial help (via this contest). But I would give anything to be there, if only to be able to watch, listen and observe how so many of you mom/wife/photographers DO this thing called life with its myriads of hats and responsibilities. I feel like I am at a crossroads right now… one way is to put my business on hold and try like crazy to do this thing called motherhood better than I am doing it now. The other way is to get some help and learn from those who have gone and are going before me on this motherhood-AND-photographer path and set off and make this dream a reality without losing my kids, my mind and my heart along the way.
I am reminded of the parable of the servants with the talents in the Bible…. the master gave his servants 1, 2, and 5 talents fully expecting them to do all they could to multiply and reproduce what he had given them. Two of the servants went to work and doubled their “investment.” The third servant buried his in the ground to “protect” it and not lose anything. I so do not want to be like the third servant (who sorely disappointed his master by wasting his talent). But like so many of the above nominees, I need the encouragement, direction, instruction and companionship of those who have walked this road and can help me to learn how to best utilize my talent for the glory of God, the blessing of others and the satisfaction of using my God-given gifts wisely.
Huge thanks to Me Ra, and to the incredibly generous donors making contests like these available to not one but three fortunate ladies. I know whoever you pick will be so blessed, and so worthy of the gift, and I pray that they will in turn pay it forward in amazing ways as well. I don’t envy the choices you have to make soon!
Chelsea
chelsea@chelseahudson.com
I also would like to nominate Lindy English Martineau. She is a woman who is driven by love, passion and charity in everything she does. I first met her when I was a poor college student funding a wedding with myself and my wife who was also a college student. She agreed to take our pictures for only the charge of development. She did wonderful and did more than I expected. She worked hard in everything she has done from jobs to her photography. She is a great mother tending to he sons needs and works hard to help get her husband through his dream of finish his degree in the field of medicine.
She worked with a non government internation charity to teach people living in poverty in Thailand to learn effective living skills. She did this 18 months at her own expense.
She also donates time and effor to a woman’s shelter in the Boise area by taking pictures for them. Also she takes pictures of recovering drug adicts and give them blow up pictures for free.
She also has donated a lot of time and effort to help another young woman finance her wedding. She did a lot of work and coordination to help raise money to help her get he whole wedding free.
She also takes time out each week to teach kids in her church group every week and monthly activites.
She is truly gives of herself with all the love, passion and charity she has. I am very please to know her and would think it a great honor for her to have an experieince like this. She loves photography and this would be a dream for her to attend.
My email address is: pzbadams@gmail.com
Thank You,
Blake Adams
I would like to nominate my best friend and kindred spirit (Anne of Green Gables anyone?) Lindy Martineau. She started her own business about 3 and a half years ago and has put all her time, energy and money into making her business a success. She has become one of the best photographers in the Boise valley. She gives back to our community and has an amazing heart for serving others. She has recently been in the newspaper for helping a bride whose father almost died from a freak accident. She was able to rally support from local businesses to donate their services and give this bride her dream wedding.
I am constantly telling her that she spreads herself to thin but it is in her nature to give of herself. Her philosophy and love of life shows in her passion as a wife, mother and artist.
I believe she is not only running on empty but running on fumes of faith. She has struggled with migraines for many years and recently they have become so bad that they have caused her muscles to become so tense that she actually woke up with 4 dislocated ribs and 2 vertabrae. Despite these challenges she continues to inspire me with her work and her ability to persevere through any challenge that life throws at her. She has wanted to attend this workshop for a long time and has come close a few times but it seems that something always happens and she is unable to attend. I encourage you to go to her website at http://lindyphotography.com/ so you can read the raves that her customers have given her and see what an amazing and deserving woman she is. Thank you for letting me share my thoughts with you.
Kim Shores
kshores5223@msn.com
I would like to nominate Lindy Martineau. The best part about Lindy is not the great artist that she is. The best part, is the energy that she brings to everyone around her. She radiates such a strong, positive attitude that you can’t help but let it take over.
Getting to know her and Jon has been a true highlight for us. Knowing all the things (and she does amazing things)that she does for others, and how hard her and Jon works, makes it easy to nominate her. She knows no strangers, is selfless, and knowing her just inspires you to be a better person.
For all that she gives for every one else, and that she puts everything she has into all she does. It would be great for her to take some time for herself and attend this workshop.
I would like to nominate one of my best friends, Lindy Martineau. I have know Lindy for 11 years and during all those years I have seen Lindy grow as a person each and every year. I have had the opportunity to share some time with her and her son, Cooper. She is the most loving and compassionate mothers I’ve met. She will always put her son or family before herself, and that takes a lot outta you. The girl needs something to herself every now and then right??!!! Lindy is very deserving of this award to finally get sometime to pamper herself!!
I want to begin by giving Lindy’s contact information (lindy@lindyphotography.com) for the last two nominations from Derrick Bender & Eddie Dunn to count. 🙂
My contact information for my nomination to count is labrum@cableone.net.
Now for my nomination…Lindy Martineau!! What a fabulous women!! She has an energy about her that brightens any room. Her love of her son is radiant. She gives selflessly to the community. And her passion for her work is inspiring. Lindy is overdue for a big break in life and would benefit greatly from the time away to attend your workshop, but what’s even more valuable is everything she will absorb from the three days and bring back to her passion and career as a photographer.
Thank you for considering my nomination.
Angela
Shannon has a passion for life that shines through in the midsts of the adversity she faces. She finds herself, like so many, starring unemployment in the face all while finding a way to uncourage others. All this while raising a young child! Her love for photography is one of her few escapes. It’s a beautiful thing when a person finds a passion for something and Shannon has that with her photography. It would definately be a bright spot for her in a time when things aren’t always going her way.This is why I nonimate Shannon for the running on empty contest. I know she will make the most of this opportunity.
I like to nominate my dear friend Shannon Bullock!!!
Her email is sbullock143@cox.net
[…] who missed yesterday’s post, make sure you enter someone you love (including yourself) in the Running on Empty Contest before […]
My name is Carlye Lynnes and I am nominating myself. I am a wife, a mother, a daughter, a sister, and a woman. I have struggled at various times in my life with all of these labels, and I have to admit that I still struggle daily with accepting myself as a vital and deserving woman. I have had a fairly “normal” life. I grew up in a large family with loving parents (although I didn’t always see them that way!). We didn’t have the most money, but both my parents worked hard to ensure we had all the things we needed and the same opportunities as others. I met the love of my life in high school and we were married a year after I graduated. We moved to Toronto so that I could attend the university of my choice. My husband has always stood behind me and encouraged me to pursue my dreams without any thoughts for himself. We were there for two years when my life was drastically changed. I was
sexually assaulted by a fellow employee at the job where I worked. I was ashamed and blamed myself. It felt as though something in me died that day. It
has taken me a long time to discuss this, let alone write it for the whole world to see. I spiraled into a depression so dark and deep that I barely saw my husband anymore, let alone myself. Only a few months later we received the devastating news that my oldest brother was losing his ongoing battle with testicular cancer. We decided to move home to be close to family and my brother passed away 6 months later. He was two weeks shy of his 26th birthday and had been married for only 2.5 years. This was a very difficult time for me as I suppressed the pain that I was still feeling in order to be present and supportive for my parents. Three months later my Nan (Mom’s mom) passed away and six months later my Grandma (Dad’s mom). That time in my life is still kind of hazy. I tried so hard to be there for everyone else but myself. My husband stood behind me the entire time. We dug into our work and our marriage and came through the other side. We had been trying to have a baby for about a year when the attack happened, and I suffered from infertility for a long time afterwards. This pain was almost worst of all. The desire to have a child was stronger than ever, but I felt as though it had been stolen from me. As all women who have experienced infertility can attest to, the stress and pressure of fertility treatment can be overwhelming. It took me 4 years to get pregnant. As my son grew inside me, I felt the spark of a new life for myself. The day he was born I felt a profound joy that can never be surpassed. He is now almost 2.5 years old and the joy of our lives (despite the extreme feeding problems)!! I am honoured to be able to stay at home to raise this precious child of God. My husband has always provided the best that he can for us. We were told recently that the chance of ever having more children is very slim. This came as a blow of course, but I am working on accepting this. It is a daily struggle. I work everyday to be the best mother and wife that I can be but it can be exhausting. Sometimes I can feel the woman being pushed down inside in order to fulfill my responsibilities. I want to help her. I want her to scream at the top of her lungs. I want her to stand tall as a woman of value. Photography has started to help me do that — although I barely get any time to myself to shower let alone practice and learn this amazing craft. I participated in a video chat that you did for Photography Mentor, and I felt a connection to you. It wasn’t until after that I discovered your blog and your story. Your spirit astounds me and I look forward to every time I see a new post. Thank you for sharing your life with us and giving somebody out there this amazing opportunity. I have read all the entries before me and I think there are many more deserving women out there than me.
Good luck to all the women who have entered so far. You all deserve it!! And make sure you let us all know what it’s like!! Thanks.
Carlye (rclynnes@hotmail.com)
My name is joshua barney, i would like to nominate Lindy Martineau for the running on empty workshop, she can be found on lindyphotography.com. She is such a fun and energetic person,she really has a heart for her community and continually goes out of her way to improve the lives of others in any way she can. She is one of those people that you look at and say to yourself, “wow, where does she get the time or energy to do all this stuff?” She deserves this chance to learn and have a great experiance for herself. my contact info is jshbarney@yahoo.com. thanks for your time and consideration.
Hello again. It seems I am not very good at following directions. Here is my contact info and Lindy’s website. Sorry for the double post. I just want it to count for her!
My email: derrickbender@gmail.com
Hers: indy@lindyphotography.com http://www.lindyphotography.com
I would like to nominate Lindy Martineau. The best part about Lindy is not the great artist that she is. The best part, is the energy that she brings to everyone around her. She radiates such a strong, positive attitude that you can’t help but let it take over.
Getting to know her and Jon has been a true highlight for us. Knowing all the things (and she does amazing things)that she does for others, and how hard her and Jon works, makes it easy to nominate her. She knows no strangers, is selfless, and knowing her just inspires you to be a better person.
For all that she gives for every one else, and that she puts everything she has into all she does. It would be great for her to take some time for herself and attend this workshop.
Thanks again! Good luck Lindy!
From mothers to mothers.. I think we all can relate and understand what it means to have a “Well deserved break” Unfortunatly the pressures of life, work, and children can make that almost impossible. Sometimes the only breaks we get are a few minutes to soak in a hot tub, endulge in a bowl of ice cream, or just pack the kids up and go for a relaxing drive. Wouldnt it be nice every once and awile to have a break that is really a break? My sister, Lindy Martenaeu is a hard working mother and buisness woman whom I know for a fact tells me one of her only breaks from reality are that of a steaming hot bath and a soothing cup of hot cocoa…she is a devoted wife and mother who would love the oppertunity to take a break, just for a moment, and spread her wings in a workshop such as this. She would like the oppertunity to learn to be more than she is…especially in this profession she so loves. She may be just a small speck when it comes to the giant world of photography, but her passion is real, and her heart is devoted. I hope you may consider the worthy mothers who deserve a break to be those who like Lindy are just getting started. Please give her the oppertunity to have HER well deserved break, and also the chance to show you her talent. Thanks so very much…Her loving sister, Catherine
I would like to nominate my niece Nancy Mitchell. She is a wife, mother, labor & delivery room nurse & wants to pursue a career in photography. I know that this workshop would be a great experience for her.
First off i would love to nominate one of my good friends lindy english. She is a wife an amazing mother, friend to everyone, and works hard everyday on her passion. Well i met lindy when i had her take my senior pictures from the on we just had all kinds of stuff in common and i liked hanging with her and her amazing kid cooper. Well one day we ended up coming up with an idea to make a skate team but nt just any skate team we wanted to sponsor kids between the ages of 8 and 15 not just to skate but to give these kids a chance to prove to the city that just because we skate it doesnt mean we are bad kids. Also to have these kids be influenced in a positive manor while doing something they all love. lindy seriously worked her butt off trying to pull all this together between running her actual business to going before the city to get insurance, permission, different things like that. The city in turn loved the idea and were on board. But that wasnt the end of putting it together there was alot more work. Well i ended up getting in trouble with the law and when i went in before court to do an evaluation on me i told them about this skate team and because of that the judge went easy on me and helped me out. Well Lindy is still currently working on trying to pull all this together i dont know where she gets all the energy i know she is running on empty and deffinently needs a break and this would be the perfect opportunity for her.
Josh
thewoodpushers@hotmail.com
lindysphotography.com
I’m nominating myself as someone who knows nothing different than Running on Empty.
Fifteen years ago I left an abusive marriage. I literally traded my wedding ring for my then 3 year old daughter, and we left. She is now about to graduate from high school! I don’t have the typical dead beat dad to deal with. My x chooses not to work so I pay him child support and have paid him spousal support, all while having primary custody of my daughter. Due to the stress and trauma I ended up with Fibromyalga, but life is so much better than it ever was. I now volunteer for the battered women’s shelter that helped me find the strength and courage to leave.
Being creative has allowed me keep myself together and find passion in my life. It also helped me stay connected to my daughter. I do photos for the sports and activities she’s done through high school. My goal has been to turn my photography hobby into a side business once my daughter graduated from high school. Now would be the perfect time to attend one of your workshops!
Reading everyones stories only gives me more inspiration, just as reading your blog every day does. Thank you!!
vicikelley@yahoo.com
From mothers to mothers.. I think we all can relate and understand what it means to have a “Well deserved break” Unfortunatly the pressures of life, work, and children can make that almost impossible. Sometimes the only breaks we get are a few minutes to soak in a hot tub, endulge in a bowl of ice cream, or just pack the kids up and go for a relaxing drive. Wouldnt it be nice every once and awile to have a break that is really a break? My sister, Lindy Martenaeu is a hard working mother and buisness woman whom I know for a fact tells me one of her only breaks from reality are that of a steaming hot bath and a soothing cup of hot cocoa…she is a devoted wife and mother who would love the oppertunity to take a break, just for a moment, and spread her wings in a workshop such as this. She would like the oppertunity to learn to be more than she is…especially in this profession she so loves. She may be just a small speck when it comes to the giant world of photography, but her passion is real, and her heart is devoted. I hope you may consider the worthy mothers who deserve a break to be those who like Lindy are just getting started. Please give her the oppertunity to have HER well deserved break, and also the chance to show you her talent. Thanks so very much…Her loving sister, Catherine
This seems like such an awesome opportunity for my dear cousin Lindy Martenaeu. She has been a complete inspirations to me. I remember just a few short years ago Lindy went out shooting with my now husband. She knew she loved photography but she had no real training on aperture and F-stop. (This is what I remember, I’m not a photographer at all. I hope that make sense.) I remember hearing stories about how excited Lindy was to get this new information. She was quick to put it to work. Within months it seemed she was shooting weddings and doing an amazing job. Her business is growing at an amazing pace, but Lindy would love to learn more. She is still trying to improve her knowledge of her passion and her career.
Lindy is a wonderful wife, mother, daughter, sister, cousin, friend and business owner. She gives all that she has to everyone around her. She works hard to at all of these things give good to everyone around her. It is time she be given an opportunity to take a few short days to refill he sole and take care of herself. Please consider her for this wonderful gift. Thank you for you time and consideration.
My email: Claudia.crook@yahoo.com
Her email: lindy@lindyphotography.com
I would like to nominate one of the most wonderful women I know. Janessa’s magnetic, positive, outgoing, and passionate personality makes her one remarkable woman I’m lucky to be able to call my friend. We originally met in high school and were friendly then before going our separate ways. We reconnected on an online message board for expectant and new moms when we were both halfway through our pregnancies last year, found ourselves in the same childbirth prep class, and our babies are now just eleven days apart. Janessa always wanted to jump into photography in high school, but couldn’t get beyond the foreign language of ISO, etc. Since having her daughter, she finally forced herself to step outside that green box and hone her craft. Becoming a mother last year has just boosted her passion and I’ve been fortunate to be on the receiving end of her enthusiasm, skill, and camera lens when I asked her to take some family shots (they’re beautiful photos).
I know from experience that motherhood isn’t always easy, but Janessa has done a wonderful job even with several obstacles in her path. From colic to reflux to a three month battle with thrush, returning to work and finding that balance between motherhood, employee, marriage, and friendship Janessa has handled each hurdle with the same grace and positivity when others I know would have crumbled. Janessa’s passion for photography is contagious and she has inspired me to get out my camera and improve my photography skills, reminding me why I bought that DSLR in the first place. She is the one who actually turned me onto MeRaKoh.
Not only will Janessa benefit greatly from such a wonderful gift as this “scholarship” is (and wouldn’t normally be able to attend), but I know she will pay it forward as well by teaching and inspiring others, and by creating beautiful and memorable photos.
sally.poston@gmail.com
Janessa’s email: janessao@gmail.com
Dear Me Ra & Brian,
I have been trying to decide if I should enter the contest all night because after reading everyone’s story I am not sure that I have the experience you are talking about. But in my heart I feel something pushing me to do this so here is my story, the story of why I feel I have been running on empty and could use this workshop.
Well to start a few months ago like many people all over this world I was told by my boss that my job was on the cut list due to budget. I don’t know if I had already prepared myself or knowing some of my friends had already lost their jobs but I took a deep breathe and said okay. That night I went home and thought about all the good I had in my life, and decided to write a letter to myself about all of the things I am passionate for and all of the goals that I have for myself. One of my goals has always been to take more photography classes, so that I can start my own photography business and that is the one thing I said I would do when I turned 30.
Well I don’t know if I was delirious at 2 am or just had an awaking but I got online and ordered a digital slr camera. Now I didn’t order the Nikon D300 that I had been dreaming of but I did order a Nikon D60 with 2 lenses and on the day I was told there was a high percentage I might lose my job in the next month I spent $700 on the camera and $175 more enrolling myself in a class. Now I don’t have much money so this was a huge amount for me to spend in one night. A very huge amount, that as I was paying for everything I was thinking about all the bills I still had to pay.
The funny thing this didn’t scare me at all even as I looked over at my little boy sleeping I felt in my heart that I was going to follow my dreams and heart and that I would make it through. Why wait till I was 30 to start photography, when I could start that very day. I had just two days before sent a quote to a friend that had just lost his job and now I was following the quote myself, here is the quote so you can understand what I was feeling at that moment: “When one door close, another opens; but we often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door that we do not see the one that has opened for us.” So I felt at this moment that I was going to look at the door with the life it held and look to the opening door with the life I have yet to live.
Now don’t get me wrong I wasn’t always this optimistic. I have been through a lot in the past few years and over this journey I have come to be the women I am today, one who is willing to take a leap of faith and take a chance on a dream. So let me sum up the story of how I got where I am today and why I feel I deserve a chance. Well a few years ago I went through a lot. I was dealing with leaving an abusive relationship, becoming a single mother, filing a restraining order and custody of my son, not having a full time job and etc, etc. It was a lot to deal with but I got through it all. In these times I always found joy in my camera and taking pictures. I had taken a few photo classes in college, and even took my best friends wedding pictures for them. It always made my day better when I took pictures! My son had 7 photo albums full by the time he was 2 yrs old, which was where all of my extra income from my second job went to but it made me happy!
Well things were going good and I had found a full time job and settled into being a single mother. I even just started to carry a point in shoot camera with me everywhere because with a growing boy the slr became to much to bring along. I could say things where good, but then came the challenge of my life. (I think I got to comfortable with life just being so, so and stopped challenging myself, so an obstacle came my way)
It was time to go to court and renew the restraining order (which I debated on renewing because life had calmed down) when I was served with a custody letter. This custody battle was now something I would be in and out of court for the next 10 months. During this time I became very depressed and just went through the motions of life. Now I had put down my camera without even realizing it and didn’t take pictures during this time at all. My friends and family noticed but I did not realize how depressed I had become.
One day while driving to my lawyer’s office I decided to turn on the radio. I don’t know what made me do it but all of the sudden I realized how quiet it was. I had been driving without the radio on for about 6 months and just felt the need for noise. Well as I turned on the radio a talk show host was reciting a quote, the quote was “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.”
I don’t know why I decided at that moment to turn on the radio but I felt god was telling me something. I felt he was talking to me, you wouldn’t believe it but after that day I changed. I stood with my head held high that day, I started too fight for what I believed in and I believed in myself again and felt that I was worth something and had self worth. Even court was no longer a scary place, when I learned to stand up straight, walk with my held high and talk with a clear voice of my own. I learned that no matter what anyone did to me I would be okay and the words of another could not break me! I like to call and remember this moment as my Oprah Aha Moment!
Well from this day on I have had a renewed faith in god and have realized he doesn’t give us anymore then we can handle. That sometimes we just have to take a moment to listen to what he is telling us. I even picked up my camera again! I was heading to Sea World on a play date with friends and saw my camera sitting lonely in the corner and decided to take it along. I must say I haven’t had so much fun in a very long time, taking pictures all day just brought something out in me again and I started smiling again.
Well I turn 30 this year on May 5 and I think I am the most excited person to turn 30 ever. I have actually been counting the days since I turned 29 last year because I am excited to experience a new decade and see what life holds for me in this new chapter. It is funny that ever since I turned 29 things have been in more focus for me. I don’t know if it is everything I have been through in the last few years or my new faith in everyday life and things. But I turned 29 made goals and plans and started to live again! The funny thing is everything within this last year I feel has truly happened for a reason and truly made me the women I am today, and I truly like her!
So to sum up I bought my camera a few months ago and have taken an Intro to DSLR Photography. I have made a goal for myself that if I finish 2 more classes and a workshop then I will buy the Nikon D300 I really want. So I enrolled in the photography certificate program which will take me a year and half to complete and bought your 2 dvds for my Christmas present to myself. I have bought 2 books on photography and have been reading them as well as any website on photography I feel will help me. I have actually been stalking your blog for over a year! I feel happy every day and life is good!
So like I said I truly feel things happen for a reason because when I saw your workshop I thought I want to attend that! I thought a few days before my 30th birthday and in my favorite city to visit what could be more perfect! Well then I saw the price and well…I decided that I would have to continue to just read the blog for now. That I would save up some more money take a few more classes and maybe save up for another workshop at a later date.
The funniest thing before you posted this contest my friends and I where thinking of planning a trip to San Francisco for my birthday. Just a 24 hour thing something really inexpensive because they know how much I love San Francisco and how much I want to go take some pictures there. And good old Southwest is having $100 round trip airfare rates? I was actually going to email you when you returned from Thailand and see if there was anyone to stop by where you where staying on Sunday, May 3rd just to say hello and tell you and Brian how much your blog has inspired me and gotten me through such tough times. I was going to try and convince you to meet with me even if only for 30 minutes? Well that was the goal at least! Well yesterday you posted the contest and well I felt it was a sign. I wasn’t going to nominate myself but I feel like this is a sign, a workshop in my favorite city, with my favorite photographer, which begins 5 days before my 30th birthday. What a great way to start a new decade and leap into it with both feet firmly planted on the ground!
So I can’t say pick me because I am the perfect mother, sister, daughter, or friend because I am not. I am just the best person that I can be and I am following a dream! I am finding my way through life with my camera in one hand and the desire to learn as much about photography and myself along the way. I want to say Thank You to both of you for even offering this contest and even if I don’t win Thank You for inspiring me to follow my dreams! If we don’t meet during this workshop I know our paths will cross one day! Thank you for giving me the chance to tell my story.
Shannon
sbullock143@cox.net
I have struggled with this decision all day because there are so many amazing women out there that are struggling in ways that I have not experienced. I am blessed to now have a healthy family, a husband with a job and enough money to not loose our house but mine is a different battle.
I met my husband when I was young and 6 months after we were married we found out our little family of two would become a family of 3. I was ecstatic and enjoyed my pregnancy but didn’t know what I was in store for. All in a matter of weeks I graduated college, became a mother, and moved hundreds of miles away from my family and friends. My life was rattled and flipped upside down. After months of “getting my feet under me” with being a mom I realized that I had lost myself. I had completely poured myself into being a wife and a mother that I no longer had my own identity. I stumbled upon photography as I was searching for something, anything that would give me a sense of self, to make me feel a little more like an individual, but still allowed me to have the most important job of being a mom. Photography soon became something just for me, something that I could let my creativity escape and allowed me to stretch my wings. It opened my eyes to a whole new side of myself and my family. It allowed me to laugh at the spilled gallon of milk or the multiple unrolled rolls of toilet paper because I could look at it through my lens. It allowed me to smile and tear up at the same time because I could see how big my little one was getting but also allowed me to remember how tiny and helpless he once was. It was my escape.
When I found out my second child was on his way I had grandiose plans to take pictures to capture all the feelings I had, the tenderness he came with and all the milestones that always seem to fade with time. However, those plans quickly fell by the wayside once he arrived. With the business of a then 2-year-old, the demands of my husbands job, and the work that a newborn encompasses left me totally drained and exhausted. I desperately fought the pull to lose myself again but lost the battle when we found out that our brand new, sweet little baby would require surgery on his head. After many doctors visits, CAT scans, pokes and prods the surgery finally arrived and we had to hand him over to the doctor and pray for the best. We spent several days in the hospital and then a while longer recovering. And so now here I stand, empty again and desperately trying to claw my way out of this rut I have dug myself into. I am so very thankful to have the blessing of being a wife and a mother to my sweet family but I also know that I need to have something just for me in order to be able to give more to them.
I have such a desire and a passion for photography. To be able to capture those treasured moments not only for myself but for others. I want so badly to feel confident in giving those memories and moments to others but at this moment my well is dry and I am just trying to give what little I have to my family and other responsibilities. So, with that long explanation I ask you to consider me for the Running on Empty workshop and thank you for giving this amazing opportunity to other amazing women as well, it is truly a blessing for all.
Thank you,
Lacey
laceyannenielson@hotmail.com
it is such a refreshing glimpse into humanity as i read all of these wonderful nominations. you two have so much to offer, and clearly there are so many that will benefit from it. it’s very touching to see so many that are living their lives with their eyes open enough to see the people around them….not just their own circumstance. excellent! looking forward to seeing you guys….
I would like to nominate myself.
I’m swallowing some pride (no one nominates themselves. It’s selfish, right?!?!? That’s how most of us feel) and resentment (asked the Hubby to do it for me…and he pride fully (But I LOVE Him!) said no…we could afford it if it were a priority. Ouch). Swallow….gulp….so here I am doing it myself. Scared to death about everyone reading it and also how I would explain to him if I were chosen. He might just kill me…but I don’t think he understands…therein lies the problem. My emotional love tank is empty….devoid. I’m not exactly sure how it got to this….it doesn’t seem like life should be or is that hard but it’s day after day after day of giving, helping, and doing without much chance to refill. It was two steps forward, three steps back until the meter read ‘E’ for empty and now I feel like I’m struggling for air.
Two years ago my Grandmother, age 76, moved into our house. She was having problems remembering and was severely underweight. The first six months are a bit of blur of numerous Dr’s appts, Mental Health Hospital stays and visits with Grandma, midnight law enforcement dealings as Grandma would set off the alarm or panic button. It was rough having to listen to Grandma ranting about how bad of a Mother and Wife I am….that hurt. The comparison to my own Mother was like salt to a wound. Although my Mother wasn’t in my life nearly my entire life, she is now and the past is the past. She had growing up to do. But I didn’t and haven’t made the same choices….I wasn’t and am not my Mother. Learning from my own childhood….abandonment, abuse, neglect…I learned. God used those experiences in my life to help mold and shape me into the Wife and Mother I am today…and I am THANKFUL for it ALL! It’s been a wonderful opportunity to speak into others lives and share the experiences and hope that I’ve found in my Father.
Eventually, thank you Lord, we got Grandma on a good combination of medicines to control her anger, depression, anxiety attacks and help to slow the progression of dementia we learned she is developing. I got Grandma to gain weight from 91lbs to 130lbs on a 5’7 frame. To date, Grandma is healthy and as happy as she can be. It’s been hard…one of the hardest things I’ve done, taking care of her. Her verbal abuse as a child and even now as an adult is hard to swallow. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t believe it, accept it or claim it….but I also believe it is my job and role to provide her this care…until I am unable. No one else will…she has six kids, five living and not a one has stepped up to the plate. That’s the part that hurts…where is everyone??? Sorry…it still gets me and I do cry when I think about it.
While caring for Grandma and getting her to a healthy place….I’m also a Mom to two amazing children, Mark age 5 (turning 6 in April) and Hope, age 3 (turning 4 in April too) and I’m a part time single Mom/part time Wife. I say that last part in truth and in jest. My husband’s job is in another city (Santa Clara to be exact, while the rest of us live in Sacramento) and half the week for the past three years…he’s gone day and night. He has a small place, converted pool house really, to lay his head at night. It’s not a place all of us could go…only room for a twin bed…so when he’s gone – he’s gone. Heck even when he’s here…he’s not truly as he works 60+ hrs a week.
So here we are….two years now with Grandma in our house. I was happy to say around Christmas we got her stable and had been that way for a couple months…but at our most recent Dr appt (Feb) we learned she has breast cancer. So here we are….turning back to unstable territory again….two steps forward, three back.
I’ve been trying to be the backbone of this family….to provide everything my Husband needs, to provide the love and care my children need and deserve….to help my Grandmother – get her on track and healthy…..and yet…I’m left empty and feeling alone. I know life could be so much worse…but I still feel desperate, empty. The chance to learn and grow my photography skills would be a dream and I would be honored. I am so very thankful for the opportunity. Thank you.
Always,
Sara
sara.elliott@comcast.net
I’d like to nominate myself for the running on empty contest. Life was pretty good for us a year ago. Then I was let go from my job last May and have been looking for a new one since them. For years I have been struggling with self-confidence in my work as well as my photography. I was not working in a field that I liked at all and I have been trying to get a job doing something I would enjoy. After 3 years of dreading going to work everyday, I need to be able to tell any future employer I enjoy my work can give it 100% of myself. I have always been envious of people who have a passion for their work. Unfortunately, now is not a good time to switch careers and I haven’t had very much luck in the job hunting and that has been depressing. My husband has been very supportive of me, but we do have the financial worry about what happens if unemployment runs out and I still don’t have a job.
Photography has always been an interest for me and it turned into a passion when my daughter was born. Like every other mom, I can’t tell you how many pictures I’ve taken of my daughter since she was born. I even keep the blurry ones because of the memories they bring up when I look at them. The story of her life is my pictures and I would love to take it to the next level and start a business and be able to do the same thing for others. To be able to capture some memories for others to cherish and look back upon and remember would be a dream come true. Going to the workshop would be another dream come true and give me the self-confidence to take it to the next step.
Thank you for the opportunity you and the generous donor are giving to us. Reading everyone’s stories has been inspiring.
Becky Hsu
r__hsu@hotmail.com
I nominate my dear friend, Amanda Mays, for the Running on Empty Contest for reasons too numerous to recount; but more particularly, how she endured and survived recent traumatic experiences while sustaining her belief in God’s grace and goodness of mankind.
Amanda suffered 2 personal losses, the miscarriage of Sydney at 23 weeks and the death of her beloved grandmother who was under her care 24/7 for 5 years. Also, she witnessed a tragic car accident, where she witnessed a man dying in his wife’s arms. Without hesitation, she stayed and comforted the victim’s wife and child and drove them to the nearest hotel where they waited until her family arrived.
Amanda is a full-time working mom of Chase age 4, and a part-time professional photographer. Between her domestic responsibilities, job and building a photography career, she finds time to volunteer for various charities and causes. She cannot help herself, she is a giver. She feels by giving, she becomes the recipient. My friend Amanda is a consummate perfectionist – always striving to be a better mother, daughter, partner and friend. I feel blessed to be counted among her friends. I’m in awe of her selfless act to help others before herself. She has done so much for others and forgets to stop and re-fuel her own tank. Presently, her photography blog has been on a stand still. Whatever the case is; whether losing inspiration or stress, I believe the Discovery Workshop would ignite her passion once again.
Hers: amdaobq@hotmail.com
Mine: ckalepo@likasorganic.com
Hi Brian and MeRa and the person making this contest for 3 instead of 1,
First, I thank you so much for your heart to help others. It is such an encouragement.
As I read through these nominations, I kind of wish my name was Lindy. She is blessed to have so many friends who want to help her get to this workshop.
As for my nomination, I am nominating myself.
I don’t have a deadly illness and I’m not living on the streets. Honestly, I realize that in the grand scheme of this world, I am rich (merely by being an American.) My “running on emptiness” comes from a different place.
I am a mom of three beautiful children, ages 8, 5 & 22 months, who keep me incredibly busy.
I am the wife of an amazing man who is the lead pastor of a church that we moved a couple of hundred miles to plant a few years ago. (again, that keeps us incredibly busy)
I am the worship leader at that same church.
I am the neighbor who watches the kids of the single mom living next door after school, so she can provide for her family.
I am a daughter who does her best to help her mom make ends meet because she was laid off, can’t find a job and lives on a very limited income. (Last year, we purchased a mobile home in our town and moved my mom here – out of Los Angeles where the cost of living is impossible for someone like her)
I am a woman of God who wants to use the gifts God gave her to be His light in the places He has put me in this world.
I am a new photographer who gets it technically, but feels very unqualified creatively. I know that when people offer to pay me to be their photographer, it is because of God’s intervention. You see, last year, when I found my passion for photography, God challenged me to use it for His glory. So I stepped out in faith and agreed to learn everything I could, and start a “non-profit” photography business, where all of the proceeds go to help orphans (this is what I believe He has told me to do with it so far) or whatever else he tells me to use it for. This photography stuff (even though I LOVE it) is a total step of faith for me. I am trusting Him to do it. He has to provide the opportunity (there are already great photographers in my area). He has to provide for my learning and equipment, because in order to just make our household expenses (and help my mom), my husband is not only pastoring a new church, but also substitute teaching. And it is a total step of faith to not keep every penny I make as a photographer so my husband doesn’t have to sub. But I know He will do all that and more – He already is.
If I showed you my weekly schedule you would probably agree that I SHOULD be running on empty. But I’m not here to complain about that. I chose that schedule so I could be the mom, wife, worship leader, church planter, photographer and child of God that God called me to be. I’m here because I would LOVE to have this time to take a shower without an almost 2 year old begging to be with me in the shower, to brush my teeth before I get everyone else going for the day, to have some REAL quiet time, but more importantly to be inspired where I feel weak as a photographer so I can do a better job for my Maker, and to allow God to provide for me through you guys. (Honestly, when I read the description for your workshop my heart skipped a beat, because I have been praying for encouragement in this area.)
Thanks again for this opportunity.
My email address is epic.rhonda@gmail.com
I would like to nominate my good friend Lindy Martineau. After reading some of the other nominations I don’t know what else can be said about her. Lindy has such a great passion for life and I think that it really shows in her work. She is one of the most caring individuals I have ever met. I think she deserves some time for herself to further develop her great skills!
her address – lindy@lindyphotography.com
I would like to nominate my wonderful friend Michelle. She isn’t a professional photographer, but she has more passion for photography than almost any other person I know.
Like many of the women nominated, she has endured her fair share of hardships. However, I don’t want to focus on the negative, nor do I want to post her personal business. Instead, I would like to focus on why she deserves to be chosen.
Michelle entered my life at a time when I really needed her. I was losing connections with old friends, due to becoming a mother. Due to growing up. Right away I knew that Michelle was going to be someone special in my life. She is a wonderful mother to her almost 2 year old son. She works outside the home but fills their evenings and weekends with outtings and special time together. She is a loyal and dedicated friend. The type would send you a “permission to be a b*tch” card when you’re having a rough week.
She is selfless and smart. Her empathy is one of her traits that I admire most. She knows when to just listen and say that she understands instead of trying to fix whatever problem you are venting about at the moment.
She was instrumental in me starting my own photography business. She encouraged me and helped me through every step of my journey.
Words are not enough to express how thankful I am to have a woman like Michelle as my friend.
Michelle’s Email: justmarried67@yahoo.com
My Email: Kelly@kellymphotography.com
I would like to nominate Lindy Martineau for this honor! She is so very deserving! She is an amazing lady! Her work is awesome! She has a desire to learn all she can to better her work! Please consider her. She is always available to help others and this would be a wonderful pay back for all she has done. Thanks !
Lindy is my niece
Hello!
My name is Chad Banks and I am nominating my Cousin, Lindy Martineau. When I saw this contest I thought of Lindy. Lindy is such an amazing photographer, friend, and person, I can think of nobody that deserves this opportunity more than her. Lindy’s photography speaks for itself and can be seen at http://www.lindyphotography.com.
From my experiences with Lindy I have come to realize that she is constantly learning, and striving to become a better photographer, and person in any way that she can. What started at as a hobby has turned into a passion with an apatite that is insatiable. What started out as a part time job (with free photography for friends and relatives) has become a source of income that helps to support her family, as her husband who is going through school. I feel that this opportunity is something that will help Lindy to achieve her goal of becoming the best photographer she can be.
I could go on and on, but I am sure you have many posts to read. Just know that in my opinion, awarding Lindy this prize will be decision that you will not regret.
Thank you,
M. Chad Banks
mchad_banks@hotmail.com
Lindy Martineau
lindy@lindyphotography.com
I would like to nominate Lindy Martineau for this opportunity!
Unlike others, I’m not a family member, nor has she extended her friendly and caring hand to me in need. Instead, I’m a disc jockey and I have had the pleasure of working with Lindy on many weddings. We first worked together several years ago when she was just starting. She told me at that time her passion was photography – but her obligation was to raising her son. Since those days I’ve watched Lindy continue to build her business based on old fashioned values, hard work, high ethics, and enthusiastic passion.
Several months ago, Lindy contacted me with the idea of helping a girl in need to have a dream wedding in light of difficult family matters. We, and others, have rallied together to help this girl and her family. Lindy spear-headed the effort and without seeking recognition, the local newspaper reported the story: http://www.idahostatesman.com/273/story/644462.html
She helped us all “Pay It Forward”. Now, I hope you choose to recognize her kindness and talent by giving her this opportunity. This gift to her will continue to bless the many lives that Lindy touches.
Thanks,
Vince Cavanagh
Her email: lindy@lindyphotography.com
My email: vince@vciaudio.com
I would like to nominate, Liza Roberson, for the Running on Empty Contest. Liza had a sour start of the New Year. Upon returning back to work after the holidays, she was presented with the news that she was being laid off and on top of that she was losing her childhood home due to foreclosure. I know that she would gain a lot from this workshop but financially, she will not be able to afford it. Her first priority currently is to provide for her 3 year old daughter, Jasmine. Liza has been passionate about Photography for as long as I can remember. I know that going to this workshop would enable her to be more confident as a photographer. She’s wanted to build upon her knowledge to develop more creative professional images and enhance her business skills. This workshop would definitely take her photography to new heights. Besides, she need a little shower of blessing in her life. http://lolajphotography.blogspot.com/
hers:lizajr@comcast.net
Mine: ckalepo@gmail.com
I am here to nominate my girlfriend’s best friend Lindy Martineau. She is such a great friend to hillary, she is always saying to me how much fun they are having. I at first did not like lindy but she has grown on me and she is really a fun person to be around. She is so good with cooper her son. I don’t know where she gets all the energy from to take care of that little rascal. 🙂 Their family is the kind of family i want to have when i get older. They are silly and loving. She needs this break please accept her into this workshop.
Lindy’s website: lindyphotography.com
I would like to nominate LINDY MARTINEAU !!!!!!
Lindy has been an angle to say the least. Well i just dont know where to start, she came into our lifes like a whirld wind. When everything was looking imppossiable.My niece(Elaine)was planning a weding and the unexpected happened. Elaines father (mark) my brother got a noxic brain injuiry. Since Mark’s medical bill’s keep adding up there was no hope for my niece Elaine to have her wedding.Thats is until we met Lindy and she has made it all happen. She is even takeing the wedding pictures.She stepped into our lifes and has restored faith in us that there are still good people out there.She is so kind she has spent hours and hours of planning for Elaine.When she has a husband and a child to take care of.We could never ever repay her for what she has done for us,but i am asking you to bless her as she has blessed us.We definetley do not want Lindy to run on empty. She has to much to offer. Thank you,
Lilly Slender and family P.S my brother mark is a miracle and he is going to walk his daughter down the isle. And Lindy is going to capture that on film.
IM sorry i should have used spell check lol … ANGEL
I would also like to nominate Lindy Martineau. Lindy thrives on life! She is constantly asking others what she can do to help them and then follows through to do so. She loves what she does and is constantly trying to learn more so that she can share her talent with those around her. Lindy deserves the honor of attending.
Kara Banks
I’d like to nominate Lindy MArtineau.
Not only is Lindy’s work exceptionally beautiful, creative/artistic, and professional but Lindy has a heart of gold. She has managed to bring a whole community together to help my family in a time of unexpected hardship. My cousin Elaine has been engaged for over a year. The plan was to have a wedding this summer. A freak accident put Elaines dad, my uncle, into a coma. He is in constant therapy trying to get back to his normal self. My uncle is in no condition to work and medical bills have built up making it impossible for the family to afford a wedding for my cousin. Lindy spread the word and made a wedding possible again. Her positive connections and good rep informed the local community, now we have a beautiful wedding planned where expenses have been covered, thanks to Lindy.
Recently, I was organizing our office and came across several thank you notes from our clients. Somehow in the hustle and shuffle of everyday life I had missed when these notes arrived at the house. I could not believe the enthusiasm and the gratitude that our customers expressed over the photographs that Sarah had taken of their weddings and families.
Sarah’s primary motivation for photography is capturing an image that leaves a lasting impact on its viewer. Sarah fully believes that first you create a beautiful image and the success will come later. Sarah has been photographing for over 10 years and has worked her way up from shooting portraits at the local K-Mart to now running a business from home. Up until January of this year, your website and blog have inspired her in ways I’ve never seen before. (You’ll have to tell me how to use hypnotic signals on your website later ;-)) Sarah wants to take Sharp Images to a “whole new level.” I believe that if Sarah could further explore her drive and passion for photography, her output would be utterly amazing.
My wife tries to find ways to give back to the art – a ‘pay it forward’ concept. Without getting into great detail, this past Christmas a family was blessed by Sarah’s ability to recognize a difficult situation and sacrifice on behalf of someone else. This workshop will be able to fill her cup with a jolt of creativity that would allow her to spill it back into other’s lives. Someone once told me that in Japan, the car builders share a lot of trade secrets with one another because if one car company does well, the country as a whole is successful. I believe the same is true for photography. Inspire and train one another so that everyone is successful at capturing the beautiful moments of our lives. From my limited reading your blog/website it seems this is your belief also.
Getting away for a few days for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity would be great for Sarah. We had record amount of snow this winter in Chicago and the warm weather and beautiful scenery would certainly uplift her spirits. (Plus, she thinks that I can’t handle our 18 month old son alone – I would love to prove her wrong!)
Dear MeRaKoh and Brian:
I will nominate myself for this wonderful gift! And what a wonderful gift it would be to gain the knowledge and insight to become a better photographer.
Photography to me is a spiritual art. It allows me to see the world and people in the best possible way. It enlightens me, fills my soul with light, and simply brightens my day, especially if I am feeling down.
I purchased my first camera in 2004 merely thinking that it would be fun to post my own art on my walls vs. buying prints that a hundreds of others would also have. Little did I know that simply pointing and shooting would become striving for an excellence that I still strive to achieve. It has become a learning tool when I thought all my learning was done!
After years (and I mean years) of employment, I found myself laid off. Finding employment was not an easy task. During those many hours and days that I wasn’t filling out applications or hitting the streets, I reached for my camera. It was during this time that I found photography was a passion, not a means of enjoyment. In my days of seemingly endless despair at the thought of losing my home and wondering how we would survive, I reached for my camera to provide an escape, and an outlet for my feelings. They say that during the worst of times that it can bring out the best. My photography much improved during this time. Alas, I found another job…just before unemployment was running out…. Yay! And the children were so happy not to have me in their face 24/7 J
I have since purchased a DSLR. I purchase books on all photographic subjects such as posing, lighting, children photography, composition, and the list goes on and on. I have spent much on tripods, lighting gear, bags, lenses, CF cards, and other tools to increase my ability to produce better photographs.
The web is my source for reaching out to other photographers, many of which have become close internet friends and sources of information and inspiration. I have joined photography groups, currently co-administer a photography forum, and have become quite accustomed to having my photographs critiqued and offer advice to others.
Through my internet learning, I found that the foster children program in our state and throughout the country has a real need for volunteer photographers. I volunteered for this program. The opportunity to photograph a child, see the child’s photograph posted, and then not seeing the photograph because he or she was adopted has brought me great joy.
So what, may you ask, is my goal for wanting to attend this wonderful workshop? I was asked to shoot a 9 person family portrait session this past October (my first job!!). Perhaps it was the jitters, but I felt I lacked the coaching skills, lighting intuition, and darn it….some members of this wonderful family actually wore glasses!!! The session turned out very well, but this workshop would provide me the information, inspiration, and confidence that I want and need to provide the best possible service to those that depend on me to create their family essence.
Frankly, I reach out to your website often to better equip myself with the basics of inspiration. I truly believe in what is portrayed as a passion for the visual essence of the person being photographed. Your encouragement is uplifting and fills my heart. My ultimate goal is to attend one of your workshops so I may gain the knowledge and inspiration I need to become the best photographer I can be.
My email address is: jwarmstrong@mchsi.com.
I would like to nominate a true photo mom… Michelle Montalbano. Michelle is an amazing photographer, but I think she could be an even more amazing addition to your group. Michelle oozes warmth, laughter, and will ask you lots of questions. I’ve never seen anyone get kids to open as quick as she can. Please pick Michelle!!!
I am nominating my long time friend Lindy Martineau. We have been friends for over 10 years. She has succesfully started her own business. Photography is definately her passion and watching her live her dream is amazing. She seems to balance everything in her life beautifully however deep down I know like any mom she could use a break. Having the opportunity to have a break and further her skills would be a dream come true for lin. She recently gave my family the gift of her talent and took my children to the park and took some gorgeous pictures. My husband wanted to give them to me as a gift and Lindy knew he couldn’t afford frames and prints and a sitting fee so she took them for free. She is always willing to help out friends and strangers alike. Over the past 3 or 4 years she has donated her eggs 5 times to women who were trying to find a way to have children. I have seen her after the procedure and I know this hasn’t always been easy on her body but she is willing and happy to do it knowing that she might be able to bring the joy of life into someone else’s home. Lindy is amazing and I know would benefit greatly from this experience and I hope she gets the opportunity to magnify her talent and be a part of this workshop.
sincerely,
Sarah Tate
my email: thatonegirlnamedsarah@yahoo.com
her email: lindy@lindyphotography.com
I would like to nominate my friend, Liza Robertson for this contest. I met Liza at one of your workshops (YAY for meeting through Me Ra!) and we have kept in contact with each other ever since. She has such a wonderful eye and a passion for photography that is out of this world!
Liza was recently laid off and although not showing it, I know her spirits are down with all the stress it comes with having a family and not being able to provide like she used to. She has a wonderful daughter who is her personal model and Liza gets ton of practice with her.
I recently spoke with Liza about her hopes and dreams of starting up her very own photography business, but with the struggles she has been facing lately, she doesn’t know when that is ever going to happen.
I believe in Liza and know that she is destined for great things. She shows wonderful compassion to everyone she knows and has faith in God every step of the way despite her own pitfalls. She is truly a beautiful person inside as well as out and I am pleased to have become one of her closest friends.
Voter: Shannon Melez – SMelez@Yahoo.com
Voted: Liza Robertson – LizaJR@Comcast.net
Check out her blog!
http://www.lolajphotography.blogspot.com
I would like to also nominate Lindy Martineau. Lindy is my sister-in-law. I met Lindy when she was engaged to my brother, and unfortunately adjusting to each other didn’t come as smoothly or as easily as I think either of us would have liked. Because of so many circumstances, Lindy and John didn’t really have a photographer at their wedding, and they really didn’t have pictures that they could display and frame and remember and be happy about. I know that Lindy always enjoyed photography, but I think that’s what pushed her over the edge, she didn’t think that anybody should go without having great pictures for memorable events. She has put her life into photography, learning and relearning and improving, and her work is beautiful. She is a great mom to Cooper and a loving wife to John. It hasn’t been easy, they’ve had a lot of ups and downs, and frankly, Lindy has probably been running on low to empty for five years now, always fulfilling everything she can, but not having anything left for her. I hope that you’ll consider her for this amazing gift, she really is great, and she will just be a vacuum at this conference, she’ll take in everything she can, and your gift will definitely be put to great work in her. Thank you for your consideration!
Sincerely, Becky Martin
rebeccammartin@hotmail.com
lindy@lindyphotography.com
My sister Shannon Bullock deserves to win the running on empty contest. She is the absolute best person that you can choose to receive this workshop. She might not have the hard luck story that some of these other wonderful ladies have but she is truly deserving of a break! Shannon is a single mother of my nephew Cameron who is 5 and a handful in his own right lol! But she does and is so much more then just the ‘single mom’ title (which I tend to think is the hardest job title there is). Shannon has always had jobs that have given back to our community. Weather it be in the hospital, ballparks or the community recreation centers Shannon has always given her time, and patience to make this a better place to live. But between work and Cameron it’s hard for her to find the time to do things for herself. Her passion has been photography for a long time, and she has recently been able to start taking photography classes at the local colleges and joining local groups. This class would be a wonderful opportunity for her to further her knowledge and expand on her love of this field, which she hopes one day to make a career (or at least a profitable hobby?). Shannon does so many things for others she often ignores herself. I hope that you will take it in your heart to honor the working mother who is always a giver, and take this chance to give her a break. Thank you so much for your beautiful photos that continue to inspire my sister and other aspiring photographers. Thank you- Lauren Bullock ltims1@yahoo.com
I would love to nominate my FAVORITE photographer Lindy Martineau!!! Not only are her photos beautiful but more so is the person behind the camera. She gives so much in her life, be it in her business, raising her lovely son, supporting a husband through school, and even by helping other couples become parents through egg donations. Lindy can only be described as a light. She brightens every room she enters and leaves people feeling better about themselves.
I believe she deserves the opportunity to expand and grow in her passion of photography.
ashfaithenglish@hotmail.com
LindyPhotography.com
Shannon Bullock has a passion for life that shines through in the midsts of the adversity she faces. She finds herself, like so many, starring unemployment in the face all while finding a way to uncourage others. All this while raising a young child! Her love for photography is one of her few escapes. It’s a beautiful thing when a person finds a passion for something and Shannon has that with her photography. It would definately be a bright spot for her in a time when things aren’t always going her way.This is why I nonimate Shannon for the running on empty contest. I know she will make the most of this opportunity.
steppes10@yahoo.com
I would like to nominate my wife Tracy Connery, who just turned 40 this year! Tracy is the mother of 3, Samson 10, Augustus 7 and Coral 5. She homeschools all three kids and is constantly looking for modules, methods and ways to improve how she teaches our children. She produces, publishes and cajoles out of thin air our local community newsletter the Fairmont Range Gazette which she somehow managed to squeeze the time to design an online version http://www.frgazette.com/. Tracy is a very talented self taught photographer who runs her own photography business http://tracyconnery.com/
Why pick Tracy? Besides for her selfless untiring efforts of putting others first, as her husband I feel this is her year. Her 40th year, the time to step out of the shadows and really use her gifts and talents. It’s time for her to take time for herself and develop. Rather than Run on Empty it is time for her to Run on Full. We her family, love and support her and should she win will somehow manage for one weekend to be without her.
Love,
Philip Boyer
philip@ovusoft.com
For my wife,
Tracy Connery
tcphoto@shaw.ca
Well the deadline looms, and I still have overwhelming guilt about it, but here goes: my name is Dori and I’m nominating myself.
I’ve read the other nominations. I have it easy in comparison, in many ways. For this I am enormously grateful. But this is an *amazing* opportunity. It promises to be a life-changing weekend. I should know; last year’s Sonoma workshop changed my life.
I became a mom 3 1/2 years ago. The transition was an upheaval for me, but I feel like I’m finally settling into the groove of parenthood. When I stumbled across Me Ra’s blog in 2006, looking for tips on how to capture great images of my darling son, I didn’t know that it would unleash a passion for photography. I just wanted to know how to get my kid in focus and blur out the background. I read through the blog archives, studied the images, bought and ‘worked’ the fantastic DVD series, and was thrilled with the new knowledge.
For Christmas 2007, my family surprised me with the gift of the Sonoma Workshop in April 08. My goal was to learn how to shoot in manual without fear, and soak in everything I could. It was the only *just for me* time I’d had since becoming a mom, and that alone was hugely significant. I returned home filled. Schooled. Encouraged. Confident. And certain that launching a photography business was a dream that I might actually achieve, hopefully within a few years. The other attendees are now my life-long friends. And I can’t even begin to describe the awesome experience of learning from Rick Chapman (and his lovely bride) in just the one day. And Garrett Burdick. Seriously fantastic, talented, and open individuals about whom I can’t say enough good things.
I’ve let the realities of life-juggling get in the way of pursuing my dream. I have 2 part time jobs, and my husband is a high school teacher, who alternates working a couple of additional jobs to supplement income. We are able to pay the bills. But I haven’t launched a photography business. I haven’t figured out how to fit it into my crammed-full calendar, and can’t afford to quit my other jobs to free up the time to invest in the dream.
I’ll tell you a secret I’m ashamed to admit: I can’t do it all, and I feel like a failure most of the time because I think I SHOULD be able to do it all. (Can I get an amen?) Will my business ever get off the ground? Though it breaks my heart to admit it, I don’t know. I do know that being around this group of mentors again would launch my spirit, and my chances, into orbit.
I would like to be considered because I don’t have the funds to get there on my own right now. Do I think I’m *more* deserving than other nominees whose stories I’ve read here? Nope.
Bottom line – I wanted to post a personal testimony that this workshop WILL be inspiring, informative, and magical for those who attend. You are in for such a treat.
Ack, I hit “submit” before I was finished proofreading.
I wanted to add a huge THANK YOU to Me Ra, Brian, and the donor of the scholarship spots. What a gift to give.
dori@goughland.com
Hi Me Ra and Brian,
It’s been so hard for me to get up the nerve to write this. 1) I am not accustomed to using my families personal hardship to try to gain sympathy or benefit from it. It feels weird. 2) There are so many deserving Moms out there. How hard it will be to pick just three. But it’s late, I’m tired, and I know I’ll regret not trying, so here goes…
I’d like to be considered for your “Running on Empty” or one of the reduced tuition scholarships, but not because I’m “Running On Empty” – please read on…
My name is Becky. I have learned from and enjoyed your DVD’s and getting to know you through your blog. I’ve become a big fan and have been dreaming about being able to attend one of your workshops.
I was first introduced to your blog from our mutual friend, Michelle R. Michelle and I met over a year ago and through our passion for photography, and many other things near and dear to our hearts, we had an instant connection. Just shortly after we met and unbeknownst to me at the time, I was about to embark upon something that would change my life forever…
First, let me say that I am very honored and proud to be Mom to my two amazing kids. My bright, beautiful thirteen-year-old daughter and my sweet, lovable seven-year-old son are absolutely the lights of my life. I am also a wife to a great guy. Along with my hubby, we run a small automotive business that employs nine people.
It was this time exactly one year ago, that our world was thrown into a tailspin. Our normally strong, healthy, bundle of energy, six-year-old boy began to complain of pain in his legs, arms and back. Over the span of several weeks, his appetite decreased, he became pale, he developed a low-grade fever and the pain in his bones was keeping him in tears day and night. We had been to several doctors and had many tests; it was not clear what was making him so sick. We were finally referred to Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital at Stanford where a bone marrow aspirate revealed that he had Leukemia (ALL). He was admitted, and began chemotherapy treatment that day. Over the next six months he endured weekly chemo treatments, lost his hair, missed weeks of school and had his fair share of feeling tired, weak and lousy.
I am happy to report that he has responded very favorably to the chemo and he is now in remission and the final maintenance phase of treatment. He’s back in school, is playing baseball and is getting back to the strong, healthy little boy he used to be. We still make monthly trips to LPCH where he’ll continue with this phase of treatment for the next two years. His doctors have said that his prognosis is excellent and they expect that he will be 100% cured by the end of treatment. Thank God!
To say it’s been a tough year is an understatement. But, from the moment I heard the doctor say those three, un-thinkable words, “he has Leukemia”. A voice in my head said “you have to be strong”, “you have to stay positive”, “we’re gonna beat this thing”, “everything HAS to be okay”, … I have listened to and followed that little voice every day since.
Am I “Running on Empty”? NO WAY! I’m staying positive! I’m running on a new found appreciation of what is important in life, what priorities are, how truly precious every moment of life is. I try really hard not to sweat the small stuff anymore. Every toss of a baseball, every time he rounds those bases, every time we hop on our bikes for a ride, every twinkle in the beautiful blue eyes of my sweet little boy, every day, a gift from God.
Would I love to get away for a weekend of inspiration, learning, and being immersed in what I love (but can’t seem to find enough time) to do? Take pictures, preserve precious memories and (if I’m lucky) create art… ABSOLUTELY!
Thank you for offering this amazing opportunity and for considering me.
Becky
bead4@sbcglobal.net
My still under construction website… bfoy.photobiz.com
My son’s blog… Foyever4.blogspot.com
I would also like to nominate my friend, Shannon Bullock (sbullock143@cox.net). She was talking about this on Monday at work and being the procrastinator I am, just started to look at the comments and decide to post at 4:00am on Wednesday morning. Seeing Shannon come on here and nominate herself really hit me hard because she is such a humble person, and someone who looks out for everybody else. Seeing her story in her own words just shows me how much passion and almost desperation she has for this new chapter in her life.
I have the fortunate opportunity of working with her, and amidst this time of uncertainty with her job, she always seems to be having a great day. She greets me with a smile and always asks how I’m doing, and most of the time, it doesn’t even occur to me the rough times she’s incurring with all the pressure of being a single mom and potentially losing her only source of income.
I originally thought she was crazy when she went out and bought the camera the day she found out her job was on the chopping block, but getting to hear about her passion for photography, and for being excited about the opportunity for a new chapter in her life (despite the uphill battle) has given me hope to see there are always “open doors” when the door you’re so used to closes in your face.
I’m not going to compare Shannon with the others here, because everybody’s situation is different, and your decision will be a tough one, but I feel Shannon is very deserving of this scholarship and I hope you can see that too and select her.
Shannon’s Email: sbullock143@cox.net
Tim’s Email: tfarmer61@hotmail.com
Good morning!
I’d like nominate Debi Tipton for a scholarship to your event… She’s an amazingly talented photographer, and someone who always “does” for others. She’s my hero, my best friend, my lover, and as of today, my wife of 30 years.
(Yes, we got married on April Fool’s Day, 1979… She’s 5’5″ and I’m 6’6″ – she had to wear ballet slippers with her grandmother’s wedding dress, and I wore platform shoes — 2″ heels — to go with my 100% polyester bellbottomed, wide-lapel, 3-piece suit from Montgomery Wards. Quite a picture!)
I love you, Debi… Happy Anniversary!
Bob
Hi guys! Its Lindy…I bet you feel like you know me well now! (You do!!! lol)
I want to nominate myself. I deserve this, and I want this so bad that I can taste it.
I am so grateful for all my family friends and clients that have come here to share their love for me ~ I love you back! I am overwhelmed with gratitude! I can’t say that anyone that posted a comment about me was objective… but I can say that a bunch of them started off that way! – hired me as their photographer and we fell in love with each other and clicked so to speak… and stayed close. I am thankful for all my friends…family by choice.
Mi Ra Koh, thanks! Thanks for helping me to get such a BIG perspective on some of the waves that I have made…I am indebted to you.
I am a big reader of your blog. Met you at the wppi pictage deal in Vegas a few years back and fell in love with you and Brian. We chatted for a bit about how I had lived in Thailand for a couple years and LOVED it, and wanted to end up there again just as you were about to do. I bought your mom 101 DVD, loved it. I read this blog about your give away and asked my mom to nominate me ~ she asked others ~ they asked others ~ and then some read my blog about thanking those that had nominated me…more then came! I am truly happy that you had this give away!
I want to give you the ‘inside’ perspective to me and all my nominations…And some things and feelings that no one out of my home really knows….
’I can’t stop’.
Truly, I can’t. I feel that I have been blessed soooooo much in my life, that I have so many talents and abilities that I therefore have such an ability and responsibility to HELP EVERYONE and EVERYTHING that I can. This is the time I feel that I am closest to God, helping him and my brothers and sisters out in such LARGE ways! And I sure as heck try. I am so often up till 2 am cus I am plotting out new clothing drives for the homeless, or a new line for my business, or how to help Coop get over a issue we are having. I have bad insomnia, because I can’t shut off!
Josh told you about my skate team that I have been working on…it is so killer! (I was a sponsored skater in my days!) And I can’t wait till its up and functional helping kids stay away from drugs and skate in a harmless and rocking manner. The slogan that we made for it is ‘Boise’s NICE little skate team.” And there are prerequisites for the members, a number of community service hours, steady GPA and such… It will help shape so many kids! And give them such an experience that they will never forget!!!
Ashley English and Sarah Tate told you about how I donate eggs to the Idaho Center for Reproductive medicine. What a blessing! I cry EVERY time that I wake up from the surgery knowing some women now will get to be a mommy!!! (Being a mommy is my favorite blessing in life)
Sarah told you about her birthday surprise… I LOVED doing that! She married my KS kim shores’s lil bro and so we are still in touch… but for the price of my session her hubby was able to print up and frame 3 24×30’s and a TON or others! So now her walls are so happy!!! I know that this small thing I did will bless her life! Just think of what it will do for her on a frustrating day to see them! Here is her sneak peek of the day!
http://www.photobiz.com/slideshowbiz/slideshow.cfm?slideshowID=54346&photographerID=6073
A bunch of friend/client and work relations told you about Elaine trails wedding ~ my hubby kept saying “lindy, breathe, and sometimes it’s ok to walk away! You’re so busy already!” and I said NO! I CAN help so I WILL. (How could I not?) It’s been a big blessing in my life to have helped her, along with so many great vendors in Boise, to make her dream wedding a reality. I believe Vince posted a link to her site.
So on top of all that was said – here is what I have to add…
Jon and I had a REAL rocky start. A bunch of his family members vehemently opposed to our marriage. I think I was too ‘strong’ so I came off scary…but no answer can be made…and reasons and apologies are no longer necessary. Although several things were done to get Jon to leave me~ we were married. But the problems with family carried right into our home. My migraines became soooo bad that I had to be hospitalized for them. I even started passing out from them. They thought that I had a brain tumor… CT said nope. The medical bills piled up…My business was just a baby at this point and I threw an entire wedding show on my own to get my photo name out! (too much stress) Three years later I felt I couldn’t take anymore…and we started really falling apart. It took years of counseling and effort…but here we are, finally dancing ~ as we did when we met. We have a beautiful boy, Cooper whom is ALL OVER my blog and site!
This last year… I decided to take some “me” time off from work and didn’t book any weddings or business from November to may… then Jon lost his job. I scrambled and came up with new business idea’s to supplement income. I did ok, but couldn’t keep up. He got another job and I relaxed again…just then his new job failed! So I kicked it into gear again and have supported us almost entirely over the last half a year! And this was the first “me” time that I had had in ages…or ever. And Elaine (the gal whose wedding I helped create) came along. I had to act. So I was trying to rally the whole town, and earn the income, raise the son, shower (eeks), help Jon study, pay the bills….. You get the picture. Here we are, his school is paid for, my cooper is healthy and happy, Elaine has her wedding, Sarah has her birthday pictures, etc… but I forgot about me. My migraines started again. This was way too much stress. This time with a new twist…they did not just hurt me so bad that I’d throw up and passed out ~ they caused the muscles in my neck to fail…which caused my muscles in my back to fail and then they yoinked 4 ribs and 2 vertebrae out of place. Slow enough that I didn’t notice until I woke up and couldn’t breathe. It’s a long road to be totally better…but I started it. (I will be fine! I want to run a marathon in October!) This was two weeks ago.
I don’t feel depressed. (Well sometimes) I defiantly don’t feel like a victim. I feel like bad things happen all the time and you got to do the best you can. I try to live by my motta “Focus on what you want, accept what you want.” But I do think I try to run faster than I should. I know that I need me time. I take a soaker bath with Epsom salt every day! But it’s not enough. Jon and I planned a week for me to get away this spring and recover but finances definitely will not allow this anymore. Every time we plan time and money for me to do something for me (being even a movie with girlfriends…) an unexpected mishap occurs… and my lindy time is out! (last month I got out away from it all only once…on a date night that’s to kim for that!!!)
I am on empty. I know I need to recharge because I cannot stop…I know I need to stop…but I cant see how! Jon has a lot more school, bills need paid, and I just can’t afford it!
I have been an artist all my life. I have been a photographer since I was a teen. I really picked it up when I was 23, and have had a successful business for 3 years now. I work all summer. I feel like you described in your blog once about coming home feels so calm and exhausting. And once you said that you just got to cry sometimes, and Brian takes the kids and lets you just cry. That’s me. Except I tell myself…buck up! Too much to do! (then hide and cry)
I am a good photographer, I want to be better. I can be better! I know that I will benefit from this soooo much! I will come home such a better photographer, and have my batteries charged to keep on keeping on! And Help where I can. I want to be like the river in Ezekiel that he says life teems wherever it goes. This opportunity will give me chances to do this. I will know more…further my business, be able to fund my skate team, and afford to help more! I want to print a big picture up for the women who graduate from their meth or other drug addictions here in Boise (chrysalis shelter, and city of light shelter.) to remind them that THEY ARE NEW! And to NOT go back! But I lack the funds. Furthering my business will give me those funds. I take their pictures but can’t print a big one up…and I know they can’t also. (Heck, a date would be rad too! ? ) I will come back with much more patience for my son. I will come back me!
Thanks for this opportunity. I love that you did this. Thanks, thanks, thanks, thanks, thanks!
I love you for this. lindy
I’d Like to nominate my wife Lindy Martineau. She really is a miracle to me the way she constantly gives of her self to everyone she finds in need. This attribute of hers is so woven into her personality and daily behavior towards others that i can’t drive by a homeless person holding a sign without my 4 year old demanding that we stop long enough to give them some money. (it’s annoying!!) But to see the huge grin creep across his face and to watch his whole body light up with joy as we pull away, as every parent knows is worth more than any amount of money or inconvienience. To get to watch my son grow up with the love and devotion and caring for others that my wife puts into every day they spend together is the greatest blessing I could ever hope for as a father. My son has the brightest future of any kid on earth, because his mother pours everything she has into creating the most marvelous and facinating world filled with love and adventure for him to grow up in For Lindy to have a chance to take a break to recharge her batteries would be a miracle in her life. I always worry about her and tell her to slow down or let someone else take care of it because i can see her wearing out. I constantly tell her to take a break, spend the money, relax, selfishly do something! ANYTHING for herself but she always refuses because there is always something or someone she feels she can fix or help or create a solution for their struggle. I know if YOU tell her by giving her this grant she’ll HAVE to listen to you!! I can’t express to you what this wonderful gift would do for her. It’s affect on her and on this community through her will be remarkable to witness.
Thank You!
John
heroftoday@hotmail.com
Wow..you guys have a tough job ahead of you with these nominations. I’m glad you are not asking for votes, as I know some of these amazing women who have been nominated and could never choose! As much as I am running on empty with 3 kids under 7, and would love the opportunity to attend the workshop, my story can not even compare to these. So with that said, good luck to my fellow Sonoma friends, Carrie, Dori & Amanda..I loved reading what you and others wrote about you. And Becky..wow, your nomination made me cry and I hope you get the opportunity to attend the workshop. I loved what you said about not running on empty, you’re a total inspiration in the way you have dealt with this little “bump in the road”!
If you would have asked me back in January where I was going to be in late April, I would have responded with “in Sanfran with Mera, Baby!!” I have planned on attending this work shop since I heard of it last year and I even tried to sign up for it in January… but my computer was for some strange reason not allowing that to happen. It did not take long for me to realize that maybe I was not supposed to sign up for that commitment at that exact time.
Back in January I was on top of my creative world with Photography. I had just gone to Mera’s workshop the month prior, had my blog up and running, my new bus license, I was promoting myself like crazy and had a couple of weddings on the books. Only one month later though, I was putting my photog on the back burner as I was dealing with the separation of me and my husband and trying to learn how to make it as a single mom. I have focused my time into picking up as many shifts as possible at my “real job” and my poor camera has been neglected. Wow how I took simple things for granted, like the use of a computer at what ever hour I needed to edit and upload pictures or the internet to keep up with the blogging world. I miss my camera. I miss my “me time”. I miss checking in on Brian and Mera 😉 like the true blog stalker I was, and I miss the confidence that was pouring from my soul just 3 short months ago.
I know that I am a few hours late on this deadline (I only just now just check in online,) but Mera I would be more than honored if you and Brian would still consider me for the “Running on Empty” contest. There really isn’t a better phrase to sum up my situation at this time and man would this just help fill my cup up a little more.
With Love
Steph Mason
I would like to nominate my wife, Michelle Slape for the Running on Empty contest. As I am constantly either at work or on travel that mean she is left to run the household and take care of our two young boys. This means she have very little time to herself let alone to work on all the aspects of her budding photography business. It is hard enough to raise the boys these day but she is a true “Super Woman”, with managing all the kids school schedule, volunteering at the kindergarten class, our sons therapy appointments, doctors appointment, an still have time to feed them and stay up late almost every night working on ways to improve her business or editing and completing client picture packages. With an opportunity to truly enhance her passion and get dedicate time to focus on her this Running on Empty would mean the world to our family and especially Michelle!
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