I dropped off my nine photograph entries at the Redwood Acres Fair today. After stupidly leaving them in the car for six hours, they were a little warped but still in presentable shape - kinda like me. I honestly don't know why I do the fair circuit, I mean you have to pay them to show off your stuff. Heck, I don't even sell my stuff or really charge people yet so it's pretty much to no avail that I'm doing this and I know that my pocketbook will not reap the benefits of my hard work.

Why? Why do I put myself through the stress? What is the driving force behind me entering these contests? Let's be honest for a sec, it's a huge ego stroke. Even if I don't place, it makes me feel good to show off what I've been working so hard in. I can slap my husband in the noggin' with a dose of, "See! That $400 lens was worth the honorable mention dollar store ribbon!" Seriously, that's all it takes anymore. Sad but so very true and I bet I'm not alone.

After being a wife, mom, and employee, it's easy to forget who you are as a person. Darn, I even forget who I am but that maybe just a side effect of lack of caffeine. The good thing about photo competitions is they won't let you be anonymous. Your identity is demanded and sometimes rewarded. I don't win ribbons based on being a good mom or wife, or because my kids were doing something absolutely adorable in the shot, it's because I took a good picture. Me. I did a good job. How often do you hear that? I bet most people don't say it or even hear that nearly as much as they should.

I'll continue to do my two fairs a year and then show some of my prints in small local shows, all the while realizing that I'll never be rich or even famous because of my art. But, my ego will be rewarded and this little push will keep me expanding upon the hobby I have grown to love. And it's my art. Something I've created and will forever have to document this time of my life. What a better way to find yourself and show yourself off by doing something you truly enjoy. I know that recognition is not important but it sure is nice once in awhile.

And to everyone reading this, hear is your daily affirmation, courtesy of Mommazilla: