When people ask about my work these days, I don't go red in the face and forget I speak English.  Which, yes, was a serious problem just six months ago.  (When that would happen, Dear Mom would reach in her purse, hand the person my business card, while she graciously encouraging me to speak a language, any language other than eye blinking.)  Now days I can approach a business owner, explain who I am, and see if they are interested in selling my product.  Strangers ask me what I do, and I confidently respond "I'm a photographer."

"You won't know, if you don't ask" has been my motto for moving business forward.  "Asking" can be as painless as, "Hello, I am a photographer.  I am on a photo shoot right now, and am wondering if I may borrow the beautifully bound book you are reading for five minutes?" "Asking" can call upon as much bravery as phoning the director of an incoming hospital.  

It is incredibly painful to stretch myself to try something out of the norm.  I am learning, it is absolutely worth it...    

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Result of phoning the hospital director : four of my pieces will be featured in the soon-to-open Pacific Summit Medical Center!  Ta-da!  For all you excited "Likers" and "Commenters" I thought you may enjoy a preview.