Un mois sabbatique. Some talk of a sabbatical year, but one month may just be enough to recharge these batteries after 11 years of online journaling.
In November, I'll follow a gentle rule: no emails, no blogging. Thanks for helping me stick to it…. If you have sent me a note in 2011 or 2012 and not received a reply, I am so sorry. I wanted to respond, but I slipped behind. Please don't take it personally. I'd feel even worse than I already do!
Before putting this blog and my inbox on hiatus for the next month, one more story for you. I hope it will fill you with hope and inspiration and, especially, tendresse et amour.
If you are looking for the word of the day, I have put it in the following story, somewhere (hint, it's in theme with October 31st…).
"See you" in December!
We'll get back to the regular blog format in December. Thank you for reading!
A Day in a French Life… by Kristin Espinasse
The Photographer and the Body Piercer
Last night my mind chattered from the day's unexpected and meaningful encounters. I had met two strangers in the town of Bandol, and by the time we parted I carried in my hand a precious, if invisible, puzzle piece. Mindful of its value–and still unsure as to where to place it–I held it tightly lest it fall into a street grate (alas, it wouldn't be the first time!). Meantime, a familiar quote galloped across my soul, dropping a clue as to what this puzzle piece represented: boldness.
Boldness has genius, power and magic in it…
Those words were tattooed on my brain like the Lord's Prayer. They must have significance. But who had said them–Ralph Waldo Emerson? Claude Bristol? Mom? And how did boldness relate to yesterday's meeting?
An internet search brought the first answer and led to an even more profound text, words which would give insight into yesterday's chance meeting, which I will soon share. First, via Wikipedia, here are the powerful thoughts of William Hutchison Murray, Scottish mountaineer and writer:
Concerning all acts of initiative (and creation), there is one elementary truth, the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then Providence moves too. All sorts of things occur to help one that would never otherwise have occurred. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one's favour all manner of unforeseen incidents and meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamt would have come his way. I learned a deep respect for one of Goethe's couplets:
Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it.
Boldness has genius, power and magic in it!
Now back to yesterday's pivotal encounter in the town of Bandol, and to where boldness and, especially, "countless ideas and splendid plans–and Providence" fit in.
Cynthia was one of the "strangers" I met yesterday. We first chatted online and were struck by our connections to Mexico and France. Cynthia lives very near my mom (who is in Puerto Vallarta), and she has a home very near me, in Bandol.
Over lunch we discovered more affinities, including a love of photography. After coming to France 20 years ago, and with no plans on leaving, Cynthia's circumstances suddenly changed. But instead of returning to the States, she found a creative way to stay in France–by offering photography tours.
As we talked about the creative activity that had allowed her to remain in France, I was struck by Cynthia's pluck–her courage and boldness to follow her intuition and to trust things would work out!
Though Cynthia no longer gives photography tours of France, she clearly enjoys helping others advance with their cameras. After lunch, Cynthia was helping me snap some pictures when I looked up, dying to ask her a question.
"Which do you prefer to photograph: architecture or people?"
"People!" Cynthia did not hesitate.
"Me too! Me too!" I said, my voice wagging its tail, like my dog Smokey when his heart is full.
"I want to photograph people!" I said, "but I am afraid of being chased away." I told Cynthia about an encounter, earlier, in which I asked the pumpkin stand lady if I could photograph her bright orange courges. The woman's face contorted into a ghoulish non!–scaring me away from my goal.
"How did you respond to the woman's negative reaction?" Cynthia wanted to know.
"Well, I told the lady that I was American… and that seeing une citrouille, or pumpkin, made my heart swell with nostalgia. The women then grumbled, 'Go ahead, just don't photograph me!'"
Cynthia said I had handled the situation very well, and, buoyed by her encouragement I seized the next opportunity….
We had be walking toward the church when my eyes locked on a colorful figure sitting in front of the tattoo shop, just beside the historic cathedral.
"Cynthia! That is who I want to photograph!" I pointed my head over to the girl in purple tights, tattoos up and down her arms. I loved the way she was sitting–carefree, yet lost in concentration.
But just as Cynthia was helping me to discreetly adjust my camera, the purple-legged subject moved. Her feet came down off the table as she shifted to greet a friend who was passing by. Oh no, the moment was lost! Or was it?….
Before my mind could reason or object, I found myself marching toward the young woman! Enough was enough. I could not go on sneaking photos–and giving up, I determined, was no longer an option.
(Boldness has genius….)
"Sorry to bother you," I said, "but I would really love to take your picture." Next, I told the young woman what a chicken I was to photograph strangers, but how I no longer wanted that to keep me from a creative impulse!
(Boldness has genius, power and magic in it…)
As I babbled on, unbridling my heart, the young woman in head to toes tattoos with piercings across her face, and earlobes weighed down with spacers–looked up at me with gentle eyes. "Bien sûr. Yes of course you can take my photo."
My babbling stopped… replaced by a moral inkling:
"Do you mind if I publish your photo?" It was a delicate question. I might have been even more direct: I wish to share your creative and inspiring-to-me character with the world, without exploiting you. You okay with that?
Without batting an eye, the young woman assured me it was pas un souci! How refreshing to know that not everyone has as many hang-ups or fearful imaginings as I. I just needed to relax–and snap the photo!
"Janis"
"I'm Kristi and this is Cynthia," I said, in between snapping pictures. "What is your name?"
"Janis."
"Ah, Janis Joplin!"
My subject smiled a confirmation, when I noticed her great and punctured heart….
"It's a bleeding heart," Janis said, as Cynthia and I huddled in close, to study the heart tattoo across Janis's chest. We chatted several moments about everything from tattoos to driving lessons to permaculture–in one of the richest conversations I have ever had in the space of 5 minutes.
Meantime, the lumière from the sky above streamed down through the church's eves, to the tattoo shop below. I watched the light fall across these former strangers, how grounded and strong they were, with hearts as warm as the sun's rays.
As I said goodbye to these artists, while holding that precious invisible puzzle piece in my hand, my breath caught. Something had fallen from me, and landed in the street grate!
I saw then what the puzzle piece truly represented: the limitations I set against myself. I no longer have to let my dreams pass me by. I can stop, say hello, and ask the magic question: May I?
Comments
To leave a comment, click here. Thank you very much for reading and I will be back in December with more words and stories. Feel free to leave a message here (my email inbox is closed, until I can catch up).
Through December, the ebook version of Blossoming in Provence is just over $4.
Janis, if you are reading, many thanks for helping me to put to rest one more limitation. I will think of you each time I ask the golden question, May I? Puis-je?
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Enjoy this time off, I hope you recharge those batteries!
Enjoy this time off, I hope you recharge those batteries!
Bon voyage !! I also love photography, but tend to do things or animals , birds & insects.
I know what you mean though , I am always shy about asking if i may photograph people.
I must take a leaf from your book !
Bon voyage !! I also love photography, but tend to do things or animals , birds & insects.
I know what you mean though , I am always shy about asking if i may photograph people.
I must take a leaf from your book !
We could be two peas in a pod when it comes to photography (including favorite subject matter) and love of all things French. Probably everyone else feels the same since they are reading your stories. Goethe’s quote is a favorite – your story will inspire me to be more open in my approach. Enjoy your time with family and self.
We could be two peas in a pod when it comes to photography (including favorite subject matter) and love of all things French. Probably everyone else feels the same since they are reading your stories. Goethe’s quote is a favorite – your story will inspire me to be more open in my approach. Enjoy your time with family and self.
Je préfère photographier les gens. J’aime la variété des expressions que on peut voir dans la même personne. Aussi je trouve très intéressant la réaction des sujets au fait d’être photographié.
Je préfère photographier les gens. J’aime la variété des expressions que on peut voir dans la même personne. Aussi je trouve très intéressant la réaction des sujets au fait d’être photographié.
Dear Kristin,
Yes! I recently asked a woman for her permission… she was holding a “Rhody Red” chicken (the Rhode Island state bird) in her arms at a Johnny Cake Festival on a gorgeous autumn day. I got the shot with an American flag wafting just behind her. Kind of Norman Rockwellian. I wanted to post it here but don’t know how. Still learning. Enjoy your month. I’m planning a similar hiatus in Mexico this winter, getting away from the New England blah time, recharging and writing. Blessings to you!
Dear Kristin,
Yes! I recently asked a woman for her permission… she was holding a “Rhody Red” chicken (the Rhode Island state bird) in her arms at a Johnny Cake Festival on a gorgeous autumn day. I got the shot with an American flag wafting just behind her. Kind of Norman Rockwellian. I wanted to post it here but don’t know how. Still learning. Enjoy your month. I’m planning a similar hiatus in Mexico this winter, getting away from the New England blah time, recharging and writing. Blessings to you!
Enjoy your time away, Kristin.It will pass quickly and we will be here when you return, revitalized. You have inspired me to use this month in some yet-to-be-determined wise way, too.
Enjoy your time away, Kristin.It will pass quickly and we will be here when you return, revitalized. You have inspired me to use this month in some yet-to-be-determined wise way, too.
A beautiful piece of writing, Kristin! Enjoy your time off.
A beautiful piece of writing, Kristin! Enjoy your time off.
Dear Kristin,
I will miss your wonderful stories, but am happy you are taking this time for yourself. Thank you for today’s lovely words of inspiration. They really struck a chord,
a decembre,
Cassie
Dear Kristin,
I will miss your wonderful stories, but am happy you are taking this time for yourself. Thank you for today’s lovely words of inspiration. They really struck a chord,
a decembre,
Cassie
Dear Kristin,
You have developed such a wonderful eye for photography. I think you just need to be more confident about your skills!
I really love to photograph both people and things. Nature can be such a willing and interesting subject…and ever changing, but on the other hand, people can so unique and expressive. My camera, with at least one lens is almost always with me in my sack. I never know when an interesting subject will appear. I often use photos for design and decorating purpose, so I need to be prepared.
If I am taking photos of “people” where they may be reproduced publicly I get a signed release form which helps to cover the use of the image and any residuals made from the use of image. Although it does seem that Europeans seem to be less stressed about these things then we Americans.I also love the historical architecture in the City where I live, but I recently learned that people don’t want you taking pictures of their homes,(I was doing a series on old windows) because they are afraid that you are “casing the joint”. I think we must have to many lawyers!
Enjoy your trip and your time away from writing. Rest, relax, enjoy. Take lots of wonderful photographs.
Namaste, bj
Dear Kristin,
You have developed such a wonderful eye for photography. I think you just need to be more confident about your skills!
I really love to photograph both people and things. Nature can be such a willing and interesting subject…and ever changing, but on the other hand, people can so unique and expressive. My camera, with at least one lens is almost always with me in my sack. I never know when an interesting subject will appear. I often use photos for design and decorating purpose, so I need to be prepared.
If I am taking photos of “people” where they may be reproduced publicly I get a signed release form which helps to cover the use of the image and any residuals made from the use of image. Although it does seem that Europeans seem to be less stressed about these things then we Americans.I also love the historical architecture in the City where I live, but I recently learned that people don’t want you taking pictures of their homes,(I was doing a series on old windows) because they are afraid that you are “casing the joint”. I think we must have to many lawyers!
Enjoy your trip and your time away from writing. Rest, relax, enjoy. Take lots of wonderful photographs.
Namaste, bj
I’m sure you made Janice’s day, just as she made yours. Thanks for doing these blogs. I love your writing and photography–especially your photography of buildings, windows, mailboxes, laundry drying, etc. They say as much about the people who have them as a photo of the person, I think. I’ll miss reading your blogs, but understand and certainly don’t expect any answers when I post a comment. Each morning, when I read one of your blog, it makes my day!
I’m sure you made Janice’s day, just as she made yours. Thanks for doing these blogs. I love your writing and photography–especially your photography of buildings, windows, mailboxes, laundry drying, etc. They say as much about the people who have them as a photo of the person, I think. I’ll miss reading your blogs, but understand and certainly don’t expect any answers when I post a comment. Each morning, when I read one of your blog, it makes my day!
I will miss your thoughtful posts and look forward to reading more when you return after your well-deserved break!
I, too have a hard time photographing people, and have been scowled at, yelled at, chastised, etc. For the most part, though, people seem delighted at being noticed, for being perceived by someone as photograph-worthy, and “captured.” I do not usually ask first – because I don’t want to ruin the mood that captured my eye in the first place… but that’s a sensitive line to cross (or not cross), and we all need to approach it in a way that works for us.
Your photographs are always beautiful!
I will miss your thoughtful posts and look forward to reading more when you return after your well-deserved break!
I, too have a hard time photographing people, and have been scowled at, yelled at, chastised, etc. For the most part, though, people seem delighted at being noticed, for being perceived by someone as photograph-worthy, and “captured.” I do not usually ask first – because I don’t want to ruin the mood that captured my eye in the first place… but that’s a sensitive line to cross (or not cross), and we all need to approach it in a way that works for us.
Your photographs are always beautiful!
Dear Kristin, Brava on your new insight! I too got discouraged from photographing people (my delight also) when I was 21, traveling in Morocco, and found the women very beautiful and mysterious, but completely unreceptive to being photographed. My experience there led me to give up photographing people. It Does take courage! I didn’t have it. A willingness to follow your passion even against the odds. I love your honesty and writing. Which also takes courage. Showing us your vulnerability takes courage too. LIfe is amazing and arduous. You are stronger than you know. (or maybe you know). And appreciated! Have a wonderful sabbatical.
Dear Kristin, Brava on your new insight! I too got discouraged from photographing people (my delight also) when I was 21, traveling in Morocco, and found the women very beautiful and mysterious, but completely unreceptive to being photographed. My experience there led me to give up photographing people. It Does take courage! I didn’t have it. A willingness to follow your passion even against the odds. I love your honesty and writing. Which also takes courage. Showing us your vulnerability takes courage too. LIfe is amazing and arduous. You are stronger than you know. (or maybe you know). And appreciated! Have a wonderful sabbatical.
I love photographing things, objects but would like to break out of my shy shell and photograph people. I’ve been writing on my blog for about a year now and have photos on it, but few people in my pics unless it’s a crowd. You give me courage! 🙂
I love photographing things, objects but would like to break out of my shy shell and photograph people. I’ve been writing on my blog for about a year now and have photos on it, but few people in my pics unless it’s a crowd. You give me courage! 🙂
Bravo Kristin! Amusez-vous bien pendant votre mois sabbatique!
Bravo Kristin! Amusez-vous bien pendant votre mois sabbatique!
Dear Kristin, Thank you for your stories about courage, discovering it, having it, using it! I agree with Marcia; you give me courage, too. Have a lovely vacation from blogging. We’ll be here when you return 🙂
Dear Kristin, Thank you for your stories about courage, discovering it, having it, using it! I agree with Marcia; you give me courage, too. Have a lovely vacation from blogging. We’ll be here when you return 🙂
Goodmorning,
I enjoy pictures of scenery. But some time ago, I was looking through pictures that used to be my grandmother’s. There were family members I know, then there were many of people I did not know. I thought about how each photo could tell a story. I thought maybe I could write a story about the people in each photo. They are pictures during my grandmother’s youth, and adult years, of family, and the many friends she had. I wish she was still here, not only because I miss her, but because I would love to hear her stories of those people. Have a wonderful time off! I hope you find even more joy from the photos you take as you expand on what you take.
Goodmorning,
I enjoy pictures of scenery. But some time ago, I was looking through pictures that used to be my grandmother’s. There were family members I know, then there were many of people I did not know. I thought about how each photo could tell a story. I thought maybe I could write a story about the people in each photo. They are pictures during my grandmother’s youth, and adult years, of family, and the many friends she had. I wish she was still here, not only because I miss her, but because I would love to hear her stories of those people. Have a wonderful time off! I hope you find even more joy from the photos you take as you expand on what you take.
Salut Kristin,
Profiter du temps de pause de blogging.
The words that Jules added to a picture of us she sent to me seem to fit your meeting with Janice……“Thank you, God, for moments like this.”
À bientôt
Salut Kristin,
Profiter du temps de pause de blogging.
The words that Jules added to a picture of us she sent to me seem to fit your meeting with Janice……“Thank you, God, for moments like this.”
À bientôt
I will miss your writing this next month. Yours is the first e-mail I always read. Enjoy the time unplugged.
I will miss your writing this next month. Yours is the first e-mail I always read. Enjoy the time unplugged.
Thank you very much for this very inspiring story. I do enjoy all of them as I would a candy! I find them in the evening, when I come back from work and I savour them always, always a treat!! Of course I’ll miss all your wonterful stories, but… do enjoy this November break, you deserve it!!! Take care & Happy Halloween to you all.
Thank you very much for this very inspiring story. I do enjoy all of them as I would a candy! I find them in the evening, when I come back from work and I savour them always, always a treat!! Of course I’ll miss all your wonterful stories, but… do enjoy this November break, you deserve it!!! Take care & Happy Halloween to you all.
I loved your post this morning—I’m pretty shy about photographing people, too. Maybe I’ll learn to step out of my comfort zone and be a bit braver. Most of all, enjoy and savor the time away from your blog! Brava for taking it!
I loved your post this morning—I’m pretty shy about photographing people, too. Maybe I’ll learn to step out of my comfort zone and be a bit braver. Most of all, enjoy and savor the time away from your blog! Brava for taking it!
Dear Kristin,
Many thanks for your wonderful stories, photos and for sharing your life with us, your emails are truly delightful and inspirational. I have purchased two of your books so look forward to a month of reading. Until December !take care and enjoy your special time.. Pauline, Perth, Australia.
Dear Kristin,
Many thanks for your wonderful stories, photos and for sharing your life with us, your emails are truly delightful and inspirational. I have purchased two of your books so look forward to a month of reading. Until December !take care and enjoy your special time.. Pauline, Perth, Australia.
Kirstin…I am an old Francophile who has enjoyed your books, your blog, and your pictures…so very much. You have lived the dream that I didn’t. I wanted so much to live in France, but wasn’t bold enough. Now, at 70, I can live vicariously through your writings and pictures. I have loved the pictures of the culture…both the places and the people. They have taken me back to the France I loved from years ago. Thank you. Have a wonderful hiatus!
Kirstin…I am an old Francophile who has enjoyed your books, your blog, and your pictures…so very much. You have lived the dream that I didn’t. I wanted so much to live in France, but wasn’t bold enough. Now, at 70, I can live vicariously through your writings and pictures. I have loved the pictures of the culture…both the places and the people. They have taken me back to the France I loved from years ago. Thank you. Have a wonderful hiatus!
You don’t have to choose–photograph people in interesting places and contexts, as you did with Janice. this photo requires that table and there are interesting little details making us wonder about more stories. Why no dogs? are the skulls for halloween? do they have anything to do with Janice? those are rhetorical questions by the way! Enjoy your sabbatical and cruise! and bring back some stories…
You don’t have to choose–photograph people in interesting places and contexts, as you did with Janice. this photo requires that table and there are interesting little details making us wonder about more stories. Why no dogs? are the skulls for halloween? do they have anything to do with Janice? those are rhetorical questions by the way! Enjoy your sabbatical and cruise! and bring back some stories…
Enjoy your time off Kristin! I’m sure you will come back with lots of great photos! I love photos of people but I seem to gravitate more towards nature photography. When we were in Europe this summer I asked a couple of reenactors at a castle in Germany if I could take their photo in German. The man said, “sure and thanks for asking”. Someone in our group was just taking pictures as if they were part of the scenery without asking.
Enjoy your time off Kristin! I’m sure you will come back with lots of great photos! I love photos of people but I seem to gravitate more towards nature photography. When we were in Europe this summer I asked a couple of reenactors at a castle in Germany if I could take their photo in German. The man said, “sure and thanks for asking”. Someone in our group was just taking pictures as if they were part of the scenery without asking.
Congratulations and a great photo too! Enjoy your sabbatical. Bissous to Jean-Marc.
Congratulations and a great photo too! Enjoy your sabbatical. Bissous to Jean-Marc.