Posted by Mike Ryan on December 29, 2009 at 3:43 PM
I've been out of the loop here for a bit. 2009 has been a challenging year; filled with joy and unfortunately a little too much sorrow. My mother passed away after a 5 year battle with ovarian cancer just before Thanksgiving. Events like these compel you to question everything you have to done, could have done, and will do. Photography always brings me joy and as I try to move on I look forward to 2010 and all it will bring. I dedicate this image to my mom, Barbara. It was taken the day after her passing and I feel it's a subject that captures here essence. She enjoyed the little things that made life special and lived her life to the fullest always bringing a little color to wherever she went.
Posted by Lon Overacker on December 29, 2009 at 6:47 PM
Mike,
I'm so very sorry about the loss of your Mother. My thoughts are with you and your family. I lost my mother 5 years ago just a couple days before Christmas - been there.
Not to make too light of one of the tougher things in life to have to go through... but one of the things I miss not having my Mom around is for her to tell me how great my pictures are. Only a mother could love our images unconditionally ....
I'm very sorry to hear about your Mom, Mike. It is a sad thing, and your didication is very nice. I lost my Dad in an accident Dec, 10 this year. Makes for a tough Christmas. I'll keep you in my thoughts, and prayers.
Chris
Posted by Dan Baumbach on December 29, 2009 at 9:07 PM
Sorry about your Mom, Mike. Your beautiful image is a great tribute to her.
- Dan.
Posted by Bishop Bastien on December 29, 2009 at 11:05 PM
Mike, sorry to hear about your mom. Agree with Dan that this is a fine tribute to her.
All the best -- Bishop
Posted by Steve Sieren on December 30, 2009 at 6:21 AM
What a wonderful tribute Mike, I'm sure it would make your mom smile.
The warm reds and frost symbolize and unthawing heart.
Steve
Posted by Derek Sedillo on December 30, 2009 at 4:03 PM
Mike,
That is a beautiful shot in memory of your mom. I love the color and frost on the leaves. Your mother sounds like a very special lady who continues to inspire you even in her passing and this sad time.
Certain events occur which mark us for life. When my father passed away and we had his ashes scattered at sea it was a life changing event for me. To this day I still think about him when I am at the ocean. Hence I feel a very strong tie to the sea.
Mike, I am saddened to hear of your loss. The photo is a wonderful tribute to her, and to your your love for her.
I wish for you all the best.
--P
Posted by Mike Ryan on December 31, 2009 at 4:10 PM
Thank you everyone for your kind comments. It's very much appreciated.
Posted by Debjit Ghosh on December 31, 2009 at 4:29 PM
Mike, I am really sorry to hear it. this is a very fine tribute to your mom. i like the placement of those leaves.
Posted by Eric Good on December 31, 2009 at 9:00 PM
I know the feeling after loosing my mom a little over a year ago. It took me a while to get back in the photography saddle as it were. But like you, I finally found it to be a joyful way to cope with the loss.
Love the various colors, textures and shapes captured here. Can't think of anything I would change. Beautiful work!
Discussion
11 repliesI'm so very sorry about the loss of your Mother. My thoughts are with you and your family. I lost my mother 5 years ago just a couple days before Christmas - been there.
Not to make too light of one of the tougher things in life to have to go through... but one of the things I miss not having my Mom around is for her to tell me how great my pictures are.
Nice image for the tribute as well.
Lon
Chris
- Dan.
All the best -- Bishop
The warm reds and frost symbolize and unthawing heart.
Steve
That is a beautiful shot in memory of your mom. I love the color and frost on the leaves. Your mother sounds like a very special lady who continues to inspire you even in her passing and this sad time.
Certain events occur which mark us for life. When my father passed away and we had his ashes scattered at sea it was a life changing event for me. To this day I still think about him when I am at the ocean. Hence I feel a very strong tie to the sea.
Sorry for your loss my friend.
Derek
I wish for you all the best.
--P
Love the various colors, textures and shapes captured here. Can't think of anything I would change. Beautiful work!
Sorry to hear of your mom's passing. But your image and though would surely make her very proud. Best Regards.