@Michael Skorulski: Michael - you must have been commenting on my image while I was visiting yours! Cool. Best regards.

@Betty: Thanks, Betty

@Eric Fry: Thank you, Eric . (and, again, congratulations on the capture of that thunderstorm at dawn - I just can't get the image out of my mind - and that's just fine. It is really spectacular. Also, I suspect Ann's company was more than sufficient)

@Ted: Ted, thanks so much. Your perception is correct. There is also joy, wisdom, inquiry, dissatisfaction, acceptance, and deep respect. I chose this image because it captures the layers of complexity that is her. Here is an image from the same series that shows a different light in those eyes:

http://www.pbase.com/joyoflight/image/94321832

Elle is traveling the world through a network named 'WWOOF' - an internet based global network of farms who invite people to come by and work the fields - in exchange for room and board including food produced from the organic foods grown in those fields - an ecological win - win. (http://www.wwoof.org)

Elle and I met early this year and worked together. We were simply friends but really connected. There was very little small-talk in our lengthy conversations. We managed to spend a good deal of time together in the six weeks after we met and until she departed. She's been on my mind and not responding to e-mails just now. Hence, the inspiration for this post.

@dj.tigersprout: Hey, DJ - welcome back - and thank you.

@Thomas: Thanks, Thomas - any kind words about the twinkle in Elle's eyes - earn bonus points with this photographer.