Fall in the Lamar Canyon, Yellowstone National Park.
It’s been a weird year. Somehow I am still in Texas (I know, it shocks me too) with a commitment to stay for at least another ten months. After moving around like mad for several years it has felt indescribably strange to remain in one place for more than four months, much less nine. I’ve discovered that the secret to staying sane here is to stay as busy as possible; if I get too much time to really sit down and think I start to get that ache in my chest missing the West.
I’m very thankful for the things that keep me busy and help me survive down here. The list is pretty simple.
The gym at my apartment complex. So ridiculously simple, but nothing helps drive out the mental demons like a few hours going hard. And on that note, Krav Maga. A new discovery last week and I am already addicted. Best stress relief ever.
This weird little band of friends I’ve found. Eclectic, yeah. Lots of strong personalities. But for better or worse this is one of the best groups of people I’ve met and worked with.
Backwoods. The day job and home to many of the people described above. I’ve worked outdoor retail for a while and somehow it feels like a little piece of home.
The people over at ShelterBox and their mission. Found this group this spring and continue to work with them. Incredible, passionate people with an even more incredible mission.
My camera gear. It feels like I’m coming home every time I pick up the gear. It means something is afoot.
Vibram five fingers. Nothing beats wearing my bright pink and orange five fingers into the grocery store and watching the soccer mommies stare and whisper.
Hugh MacLeod of Gapingvoid. Brilliant businessman and a daily source of inspiration. I’m looking at six pieces of Hugh’s work in my room right now.
And perhaps most importantly, the ability to challenge myself. I’ve made it a goal this year to seek something out every day that either scares, intimidates, or challenges me. It’s opened more doors than I could have guessed and made for a very interesting year. Looking forward to whatever it brings in the days to come.
Thanks to everyone who comes back to read this blog week after week. It’s nice to know that somewhere out there (apparently mostly overseas, according to the analytics) people are reading these words. You inspire me every day to keep on working.
Tags: Fire Girl Photography
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Hey Jess,
Hope I can contribute (in my very small way) to your experience in Texas. I know what it is to be a sqaure peg in a round hole. I am grateful you are here, and I know you are affecting lives while you are here. I am so glad for that horse show!! Every path we have to take, even the challenging, unexpected ones, mold us to the people we were meant to be.
I really appreciate your post and you explain each and every point very well.Thanks for sharing this information.And I’ll love to read your next post too.
@Jen, You’re contributing so much and helping keep me sane! 🙂 I’m so grateful we met and started talking photography… you just never know who you will meet. Let’s get together for some “geek talk” soon… I’m trying to keep my head above water at the moment but things should be better after this week.
@Brian, thanks for stopping by! Just checked out your site and will certainly pass it on.