365 | 2009

So here it is. The culmination of a year lived the best it could: these photographs. This was my year, give or take a hundred days. Those days were lost to a broken camera and the beautiful struggle of adding a third person to our family, and also to days that were so dark that I couldn't find one picture-worthy moment within them.

As I looked through the photos that I've taken for this project, 253 in all, I didn't see the darkness. I didn't see the days where I saw more tears than breaths, or the days I wasn't sure I'd ever sleep well again, or the days I had no hope. All I saw was what's beautiful in my life -- the simple, ordinary, lovely things I have that have sustained me through this year's ups and downs. Most importantly I saw two faces that give me security and purpose and more love that I could ever hope.

This project changed my life, or at least the way I see my life. And it helped rekindle my passion for art and creative pursuits. If you're looking for a new year's ambition, try the 365 project. Carry your camera with you and photograph your beautiful life. I plan to again in 2010, and I hope to refine my photography skills as I grow more accustomed to my smart little camera.

It's a beautiful life, friends. Here's to another year. Cheers!