Self-Portrait in an Enclosed Space- (The Reality of a Monday Night)

I realized this week, that since I started the Self-portrait challenge, I have presented myself in a very mysterious light. Most of my portraits have been dark, sullen, overly thought out pieces. So this week, although I am still not smiling, and still somehow shrouded in shadows, I wanted my portrait to look calm, peaceful, content. Because that is how I feel most of the time these days.

It is Monday night; I had a stressful, yet fulfilling day at work. I came home bathed and put the baby to sleep, after we took a tour of the back and front yard to smell the jasmine blossoms that are coming in. I barbequed some veggies for fajitas, and spent some time chatting with my wife about our plans to someday soon move to Argentina.

I often use my writing/art/this blog to express the side of myself that is suffering or confused or frustrated that people, who don’t know me, may get the impression that I am a jaded, cynical, depressed political zealot. Where in reality, I am the exact opposite. I guess I believe in the school of thought that says, "people don’t express themselves artistically well when things are going well."

Here is my attempt to change that. I tried to capture a typical, Monday night in the life of a new dad, teacher, husband, son, getting ready for bed after a day well lived. Not on some adventure or living his fantasy bohemian dreams, but simply living each moment with the people he loves, loving his work, and being happy.

I also realized that most of my images have been obscured shots. So here is one head on. Sorry I am not smiling or looking better, but I tried really hard to articulate everything I said in this post through my expression. I guess looking morose is in my nature. Did I mention that I was quite tired as well?