Ring of Fire and Serenity
A solar eclipse will occur on Wednesday, July 22, 2009. This dream assignment is the ability to photograph the eclipse in China, with an additional six weeks of shooting dedicated to “the regions within the path of the umbra.”
For me, travel and photography opens the minds sky, allowing the viewer to experience a moment, or see things differently. Although I cannot predict how perspectives are impacted, I can only think that in the most extreme cases there is a provocation of change, which reminds me of a quote that hangs on my wall. “Change has considerable psychological impact on the human mind. To the fearful it is threatening because it means that things may get worse. To the hopeful it is encouraging because things may get better. To the confident it is inspiring because the challenge exists to make things better. Obviously, then, one’s character and frame of mind determine how readily he brings about change and how he reacts to change that is imposed on him.”
A solar eclipse will take place on Wednesday, July 22, 2023 and will be visible from a narrow corridor through northern India, eastern Nepal, northern Bangladesh, Bhutan, the northern tip of Myanmar, central China and the Pacific Ocean, including Ryukyu Islands, Marshall Islands and Kiribati. This solar eclipse is the longest total solar eclipse that will occur in the twenty-first century, and will not be surpassed in duration until June 13, 2132. Totality will last for up to 6 minutes and 39 seconds.
Although shortest in duration, the largest part of this dream assignment, is the ability to photograph the eclipse in China, with an additional six weeks of shooting dedicated to “the regions within the path of the Umbra” - Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan, India, and Mongolia.
The people of many cultures from all parts of the globe have developed various myths and legends about eclipses. Many believe that an eclipse is an omen of some natural disaster or the death or downfall of a ruler. Another pervasive myth involves an invisible dragon or other demon that devours the Sun during an eclipse. Many cultures have also developed superstitions about how to counteract the effects of an eclipse. The Chinese would produce great noise and commotion (drumming, banging on pans, shooting arrows into the sky, and the like) to frighten away the dragon and restore daylight. In India people may immerse themselves in water up to their necks, believing this act of worship will help the Sun and Moon defend themselves against the dragon. In Japan, the custom is to cover wells during an eclipse to prevent poison from dropping into them from the darkened sky. And as recently as the last century, the Chinese Imperial Navy fired its ceremonial guns during an eclipse to scare off the invisible dragon.
While visiting these regions of the world, my challenge will be to focus on the story of the eclipse and the richness of culture, symbolism, and ceremony. As a child who had a deep love for astronomy, which never faded, I have longed believed that an eclipse is a symbol of rebirth. And this assignment brings me to parts of the world, which is steeped, in mystery while surrounded by growth. It is a region perhaps experiencing its own rebirth.
It is my goal to produce a body of work that connects a rare phenomenon, cultural experiences, and the innate raw fact that we are all human in our experience. Ultimately, my goal is to be able to translate experience and "touch" through the medium of photography.
It is not lost on me that I will shoot in China, a growing political economy, but I would also like to show the fragility that still exists. Ultimately, it is not the things we have, but the experience, the human experience, the experience of nature, and the forces of nature that are the strongest binders in our lives. It is my hope that this dream assignment and the images I produce, are able to convey that.
Itinerary:
Mongolia (10 Days):
Mongolia is a land of legend, where mounted soldiers once galloped across the golden steppes with the warrior Genghis Khan as he forged his vast empire in the 13th century. Even today, Mongolia is a horse-based society with an abiding pastoral tradition and a thriving nomadic culture.
The dream assignment starts with a hike along the edge of the Potanin Glacier to a spectacular camp at 9,800 feet with the backdrop of the snowy flanks of Mt. Khuiten (14,350'), Mongolia’s highest peak. Photographing the glacier-fed Tsaggan Gul River, white with glacial silt as it tumbles down through green meadows. I would continue to Mogoit Pass (9,000') bringing me into a green valley where Kazakh families spend summers with their horses, camels, goats, and yaks. In a tradition passed down from their Turkic ancestors, many Kazakh men hunt from horseback with trained golden eagles, pursuing foxes and rabbits across the mountains. I would hope to meet and photograph these traditional hunters and learn about their ancient skill.
July also brings a wonderful opportunity to experience the Naadam Festival, a major Mongolian national and public holiday and celebrated every year by the whole of Mongolia, every city, every town and every village. ?This spectacular journey allows me to shoot Mongolia's biggest ever sporting event. Naadam games include wrestling, archery, and horse racing. This is the best time to discover Mongolia and to join nomadic people who are in a festive spirit because of the Naadam Festival.
China (10 Days):
This adventure begins in the amazing capital, Beijing, home to the 2008 Olympics, where I will photograph the magnificent Forbidden City and explore Tiananmen Square. A cycle rickshaw is a unique way to capture the labyrinth of hutongs (old residential quarters). Traveling out to the Great Wall at Simatai I then overnight by one of the most stunning sections of the Wall, from where I can walk along its towering ramparts or take the cable car up to one of the old observation towers. I then travel to Luoyang and photograph the Shaolin 'Kung Fu' monastery, with its famous martial monks.
Continuing to Xian, my lens will discover thousands of life-size models of soldiers, horses and chariots buried thousands of years ago to protect the Qin dynasty emperors in the after world. A flight to Guilin then brings my camera to a bizarre but beautiful landscape of mysterious hump-backed mountains along the Li River. I will spend time in the small town of Yangshuo, where I can hire bikes, and spend time with the Yao and Dong tribes who live on the terraces of the “Dragon's Backbone.” The highlight of this journey is from Shanghai, where I will have the chance to explore and capture this vibrant city then drive out of the city to witness and photograph the once-in-a-lifetime experience of a total eclipse, followed by one of the world's highest tidal river bores.
Total Solar Eclipse – I am going to need to PRACTICE for this! The best way to prepare for photographing a total solar eclipse is to practice taking pictures of the moon during various phases. The solar eclipse happens "around" the moon and that the corona will extend two to five times the lunar diameter. I won’t have to worry if my 200mm-lens system does not reveal lots of lunar detail, because the moon's surface is very bright by comparison.
The amount of light I will have to work with is about the same as during a new moon. Meaning, I should have little to no trouble reading the exposure settings on the camera. As I look through the lens, the brightness will be closer to that of a quarter moon or less.
I need to practice longer exposures and get a feel for the movement of the moon during these exposures during the crescent phase when I can see the Earthshine on the entire surface of the moon.
The partial phases of the eclipse can be photographed using a solar filter if you have a longer lens or telescope. The amount of light will lesson during the eclipse, therefore I can find the proper exposure ranges for your configuration by taking a range of pictures from noontime to near sunset or with variable cloudiness. I have a telescope, so from what I have learned, the right exposure should also show sunspots.
It is important to have a strategy in mind when getting ready to photograph the eclipse. The best rule of thumb is to keep it simple since there is simply too much to see and experience all at once. I practice my strategy using the moon and having a good watch to count down the time remaining. My simple strategy is to start with faster exposures around 2nd contact then increase the exposures during the eclipse and finish with fast exposures again as we go into 3rd contact. This strategy is based on the effective focal length of my telescope and the fact that it does a great job with the prominences. My goal is to NOT get flustered and involved in the eclipse event itself.
Bhutan (5 Days):
The tiny Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan has without doubt, one of the most pristine natural environments on the planet. It is landlocked and separated from Tibet by the massive Himalayan peaks to the north with the rest of the country surrounded by Sikkim and India. Because of its great variety of plants and animals, it is considered to be one of world's hotspots for conservation and biological diversity.
First thing in the morning I will shoot Kharbandi Gompa, situated in a garden of tropical plants and flowers. After shooting Kharibandi Gompa, I depart Phunsholing on a breathtaking drive through the lush forested valleys on the way to Thimpu. This drive offers magnificent mountain views as I am taken through the tiny hamlets and villages. In the afternoon I arrive in Thimpu, the capital of the Kingdom of Bhutan. Thimpu has been isolated from the rest of the world for centuries. In Thimpu I will shoot the beautiful monasteries with their centuries of collected sacred Buddhist art and the 400 – year old Tashichho Dzong, the official office of the King.
While in Bhutan, I will take the opportunity to stroll the market where I will experience and capture local life and where I will have the opportunity to observe and shoot the remote mountain dwellers haggling and bartering over their goods as they have done for centuries.
Bhutan is a photographer’s paradise, offering the ability to shoot Wangdue Phodrang Dzong with its magnificent view overlooking the river. Founded in 1638, its prayer hall has a fantastic collection of sacred art. Most famously, I will also have the opportunity to hike to the Tiger’s Nest. Perched on the side of a mountain cliff this is one of the most photographed monasteries in all of the Himalayas. It is one of the most sacred sites in Bhutan and attracts pilgrims from all over Bhutan. The views from this monastery across the valley are out of this world. It would be my goal to shed a different light and new perspective.
Tibet (3 days):
Tibet has captured the minds and imaginations of travelers and adventurers for centuries. It is believed that Buddha prophesied 2500 years ago that his teachings would leave India and travel to Tibet, the Land of the Snows.
I will begin with a flight and short shoot over the panoramic Himalayan Ranges to the capital of Tibet. "Lhasa”. Lhasa, at an altitude of 3,650 m, is situated on the north bank of Kyichu River. Lhasa in Tibetan means "Place of the Gods", the residence of the Dalai Lama. Afterwards, I will venture with the lens to Potala Palace, Ramoche Monastery and & Norbulinka. Potala Palace, this legendary palace built atop a single hill is synonymous with Tibet by the first foremost king Songtsen Gompa Norbulingka meaning 'Treasure Park' covers an area of around 360000 sq. m. and is considered to be the biggest man made garden in Tibet.
The Tibetan Itinerary also includes Sera Monastery, Jokhang Monastery, and Barkhor Market. Sera Monastery, 5 Km north of Lhasa, Sera setting is one of Lhasa's prettiest monasteries. Once a community of more than 5,000 monks resided here and was virtually extinguished by the Chinese. Jokhang Temple, situated in the heart of Old Lhasa, it houses Tibet's most precious religious relic, a golden Shakyamuni Buddha, which was brought as a gift by the Chinese Princess Wen Cheng on the occasion of her wedding to the Tibetan King, Songtsen Gompo. Barkhor Market place, which is the religious and social focus of Lhasa.
Nepal (5 Days):
Nepal centers largely around Kathmandu. On the first day I will concentrate on the Durbar Square, Hanuman Dhoka, the ancient royal residential quarter, Mahadev and Parvati Temple, Machhender Bahl-holy place for the Buddhists and Hindus, Temple House of Kumari, the vestal virgin or the living goddess. Walk around and shoot the local bazaars. Also visit Swayambunath, a 2500-year old site where, it is believed, the Radiant Lotus of the valley-mythology, settled when Manushri, the god of Wisdom, drained the water. The 5 dhyani Buddha's attended by their consorts are enshrined at the base of the stupa.
In Patan I will explore and capture the old Newar City, the historic Durbar Square, the Golden Gate, the sky piercing temple of Teleju and the statue of Yogendra Malla, other temples, old carved windows and balconies of wood, curio shops and bazaars. Then it’s off to Bhadgaon, Bodhnath and Pashupatinath. Bhadgaon - another Newar city founded in the 9th century. Visit the ancient Gateway, Durbar Square the Royal Residential quarter of Bhupatindra Malla, the famous five-storied temple of Nyatapola in pagoda style and other temples. Later, visit Bodhnath, the 2500-year old Buddhist Stupa, - a holy place for Buddhist pilgrims from Tibet. Also visit Pashupatinath temple where Shiva is worshipped in the form of lingam.
Then it’s off to Dhulikhel, a small township, 30 km from Katmandu, along the Chinese-built road, which leads to the border. It is at an altitude of 6000 ft and offers superb views of Cho Oyu in the east to Himalchuli in the west. The little town exudes great charm in the bare-brick houses, carved wooden windows, sloping tile-roofs, pagoda-temples and sacred statues everywhere. Temples dot the town and the skyline. Many vantage points offer a panorama of the Himalayan Mountains.
Mountain Flights are conducted daily from Katmandu towards the Himalayan Range in the north and East of Katmandu. The flight generally takes off in the morning and lasts for one full hour. Every passenger is guaranteed a window seat on mountain flights. This is the quickest way to get a closer look, and possible aerially shoot Mt. Everest, the highest mountain in the world.
India (9 Days):
Sikkim, the former Tibetan Buddhist Himalayan kingdom, is one of the most spectacular regions in the world. For years, it was considered one of the last Himalayan Shangri-La’s because of its seclusion, magnificent mountain terrain, and ancient Buddhist monasteries. Sikkim's natural beauty of cascading waterfalls, vibrant terraced hills, pristine lakes, and snow-capped peaks offer a rare opportunity to experience one of the most inspiring environments in the world. Over time, the peaceful tenets of Buddhism have produced a humble and friendly people who truly enjoy sharing the unique treasures of their rich heritage. Their culture comes to life in art, mysticism, music, architecture, and religious traditions.
Darjeeling is known as one of the most charming towns in the eastern Himalayan foothills. Established by the British in the mid-19th century, Darjeeling is situated on a 7,000-foot ridge. It is surrounded by tea plantations and offers stunning Himalayan vistas including the 28,201-foot Kanchenjunga — the world’s third highest mountain peak.
The last leg of my dream assignment will involve a whole lot of walking, however it will be along the picturesque terrain of Darjeeling, Sikkim and Kanchenjunga punctuated with visits to popular monasteries of Sikkim and small villages. On this segment, I will have the opportunity to shoot the Great Himalayan ranges at Darjeeling, Sikkim and Kanchenjunga. Apart from long walks across the hilly terrain, I have an excellent chance to shoot the Buddhist monasteries. The final chapter of this assignment begins from India's capital Delhi, from where I will fly to Bagdogra and reach Darjeeling by road. From Darjeeling to Gangtok I will cover more than dozens of destinations on foot. Of course, the walks will be quite lengthy and difficult, but it will provide an unequalled ability to shoot some pretty spectacular experiences.
Photographs have the ability to translate history and personal experience in a way that encourages others to assume ownership of the world or inspire dreams. I still cling to the notion that we each have a fundamental stake in the world around us. It is my hope that this dream assignment only deepens this feeling and allows me to share this unique opportunity with the world, inspiring more dreams and instigating kindness and change.
278 Comments
Well thought out. I'd like to see this. I'll vote for your idea. Maybe if you get a moment you can check out mine and pay it forward. Thanks!
Very Nice I sure you could do a awesome job with it.You have my vote please go and vote for me.
I really like your idea! Good luck! If you get a chance, visit my idea and pic it if you like it :) http://www.nameyourdreamassignment.com/the-ideas/srebeccan/children-of-redemption/
great idea =)
i just voted for you. vote for me and lets spread this and see how far we all get!
you are amaZing! your 'dream assignment' is dreamy! GO J'ANGELA!!
YOU ROCK!!!
Good Luck!!!!!
I didn't read your whole proposal, but I love the idea of photographing the path of the umbra. My idea also has to do with celebrating natural phenomena, and I hope someone with a proposal like ours gets funded.
Good luck!
Matt
good luck,
You got my vote! :_)
Ron
Of course I voted for you!!!
"Vampires are make-believe, like elves, gremlins, and eskimos."
Great idea. I just e-voted.
Awesome!
Such an incredible vision! Best of luck J!!
Great idea!! Good Luck!
LOVE IT~~~
Very cool idea! :P
Hi Janegela! I hope you get your dream assignment! Your itinerary sounds fascinating!
I voted for you!! Good luck :-) Myles
Girl I hope you get your dream assignment!!!!!!!! I voted for you!!
GOOD LUCK JANGELA!!!!!! - MARLA
hey jangela, i hope u get it good luck
can u post it to let us know when u win, by the way it's tonya gigax
ANYONE WHO IS INTERESTED IN VIEWING SOME OF "MY WORK" CAN GO TO...
HTTP://www.pinxit.smugmug.com
There is an album called "my favorites" that has the "token shots." Each album contains everthing I shot in a particular place, they aren't edited particularly well (sorry)
Wow - great, original idea, very well thought out!
Wishing you the best of luck - looks like a wonderful idea!
Jangela - for all the good you put into this world, the magic and beauty in your heart, I hope you get to live this dream. Best wishes.
So excited you might be able to do this!
what an amazing and wonderful opportunity...best of luck! - Neeva
Very interesting concept. I am very interested to see what you accomplish with it. I hope you succeed with it. I wish you the best of luck with it. I voted for you. Please consider voting for my ideas as well.
voted
Good luck Jay!!
Was detailed, simple and neat description. I appreciate your passion ....keep it up and keep growing ...god bless ya ..! Voted :)
Encouraged by Judy to Vote...Best of Luck!
Good Luck!!!!
No cupcake for me thanks, but always willing to help an old Friend! W.
My vote happened to be #76, the year I was born. Year of the Dragon in China! I hope you get to live your dream. Ioana invited me to vote for you. Good Luck.
Great idea and a chance for some amazing photos!! Good luck!!
Unite against the “network” that is scheming votes. Support ideas that are “lost” due to unworthy ideas using low tactics. “Insulin” is not the best idea. Something is wrong here and many fantastic ideas are getting lost due to the “network.” If you like my idea on “Vanishing Cultures,” vote for it.
Very cool. Please, check me out too when you've got the time.
This sounds amazing! Hope you win and can't wait to see the photos! Your work on your site is stunning!
Hello Jangela - The trip you have layed out is a testament to your courage and strength. You have captivated me with your vision, and I vote for you because I want you to live this journey so you can relive it for everyone through your pictures and document the human experience.
YOU GO GIRL. Sending you luv and best wishes from L.A. xo Laurie
This sounds amazing. Good luck to you in your journey. Let me know if you need me to carry your bags on this trip! ;P
the trells in l.a. told me about you and after reading about your journey, i just had to make sure you got this vote. good luck!
Awesome dream. I hope you get to live it.
One more vote cast towards your dream!!
Good luck girl!!! We all believe in you!
we are all routing for you from los angeles. good luck jangela! --bruce chinquee
I love this idea! check out mine and Pic it if youd like! Congo here I come...
Hope it all works out for you. Great idea!
C^_^D GO GO GO!!
You owe me a cupcake!
Buena Suerte, Jangela!
Dare to be Free....
Write your own story...be your own hero....
Hey! you want to take pictures in China!... I give you a pick! If you win I'll be also able to support your as I live there!
Mine is also in China, return the vote if you like it!
Good luck!
You have a lot of cupcakes to bake! I want mine first. Make sure to send pictures of your adventure...
This is a wonderful proposal, truly one of a kind - just like the author. Best of luck in landing your dream assignment. Ah, yes - I would indeed like one vanilla cupcake!
i'd gladly help out a fellow former walker millionaire. remember to take the cover of the lens first before you start taking pictures. i always make that mistake. :-)
This has to be the most detailed and thorough essay I've seen and really interesting. You taught me a lot and feel you would do an awesome job with this assignment. Best of luck!
Breathtaking! Great idea & Best of luck - you have my "PIC" - please check out my dream of furthering peaceful coexistence between Jews and Arabs in the Middle East. Thanks!!
good luck
Great idea!
go J!
i hope you get this, and i can be your photo assistant.
go J!
i hope you get this, and i can be your photo assistant.
You could not have picked a better person for something like this...Awesome person!
dont forget to research about Gods own country"kerala...i want a cupcake
You have my vote, If you get the chance, check out my dream "From Australia With Love" and PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE vote for it!
Thanks.
-Adam
GO TRIBE LEADER! :)
best wishes from los angeles! =) nadia z.
best wishes from potomac, md. =) lan nguyen
more luv from potomac, md =) LV
we can't get enough of you =)
best wishes from myspace =) rachel m.
best wishes from redondo beach, ca =) rae m.
some more love from los angeles. i think you and what you're doing is amazing. =) bruce c.
sending you love from atlanta, ga. =) franklin trell
more love from atlanta, ga =) shaaron trell (darryl's mom)
good luck from the cardiff villas! =) alexis d.
GOOD LUCK!
good luck from santa monica, ca! =) bryan a.
sending you more luv from santa monica! no cupcakes needed. just a picture of you on a surfboard somewhere on your travels! =) bryan
This is great - best wishes.
best wishes from cheviot hills, ca! wish i can come along and help you digitally capture this all! =) michael t.
Good luck with everything!
tah dah!
best wishes from 'the grove' in los angeles =) kristen y.
cool~ i hope your dream assignment becomes a reality~ Good Luck!
looking forward to seeing those pictures. :)
this is AWESOME!
vote for jangela, she really wants this!
WOOOO!!!! YEAH Photos are awesome.
Astronomy is amazing and so are you!!! boo ya!
What a wonderful proposal. Everyone is pulling for you!
awwwe...me and d just got your email. i am on a mission xo-- ltn ("n" formerly that is)
Good luck!
From Laurie's mother
GO JANGELA!! we LOVE your dream assignment! BEST OF LUCK and big hugs, JJ Power & Dr.Dre :)
Sounds amazing - I hope you get your dream!
Sounds great! Can I come in your suitcase? Good luck!!!!!!!!
awesome idea,good luck
You Rock!
Good Luck!! Haven't read it all but it sounds like an amazing opportunity. All the best.
good luck and best wishes from hollywood, ca. scott b.
Now you have the coworkers pulling for you!!! Great idea and best of luck!!!
You go girl!!!
We are rooting for you AND your great photos!
Big heart, open mind - great photos, and the opportunity for awesome equipment - YOU CAN DO IT. Line of people ready to vote!!!!
Sky is the limit!!! go-go-go!
You owe me a cupcake - and a polaroid of the eclipse!
Jangela - A)thanks for pot luck B) we are all wishing you the best of luck. This was and is a GREAT idea!
From "the inside of the wall" - we all beleive in you! Chase the dream ;)
YAY - you make voting possible from the office!!! We beleive in you. BET WISHES!
only YOU can make dreams a possibility
put me in the suitcase as your special assistant - I'll be the gaffe
I have long admired the photos on your desk, we are all rooting for you! You are definitely the brains and the creativity behind any operation. Lenovo and Microsoft would be blessed to have you a their spokesperson and representative of the capability of their technology on this type of assignment.
Go Jangela!
GO TRIBE!
Our line is getting shorter - but we ALL beleive in this! You paint such a fascinating picture, great and wonderful person - great and wonderful idea.
The sign is right - you really are a super docent!
We know you can do this - I'm going to ask others too! Good luck Jangela.
You really are talented, but what's even more inspiring is you are proof is that Joe Scmoe can pick up a common camera and do something extraordinary.
I was number 313 - 13 is my lucky number - so you are well on your way!
sending you even more love from atlanta, ga! =) todd schlessinger
good luck and best wishes from all of the trells and schlessingers in atlanta! =) heather trell schlessinger
OK, there are only 3 of us left in this voting line - but we are all rooting for you and your dream assignment
YOU CAN DO IT
I'm the last of the line for this little shin dig - but we all wish you the best as you continue to inspire us. Good luck - keep taking pictures. We are all going to shrink ourselves so we can fit in your pocketbook - dave
YOU OWE ME TWO DOZEN CUPCAKES!!!!!!
C
Hannah this is Joey i voted for you son! lol and i actually read some of this material.
GOOD LUCK :)
Judy encouraged me to vote, and since I think this sounds great, I did! I really want to see the pictures if you get to do this!
Good Luck!
sounds like an awesome journey. good luck to you!
Everyone is so confident in this vision.
You can dream it and you CAN achieve it!
As you would say, AD ASTRA PER INFINITUM
You rock and I'm going to eat another cupcake now
I agree with Paul, you totally rock - and the cupcakes are a nice touch. We all love your photos. HIGH SPEED LOW DRAG - GOOD LUCK
go jangela, go. your photos are like music, every element has meaning. We all hope you get this.
Judy Huitz gave me the website info. Good luck!
good luck!
Great job and good luck!
we like voting days!!! cupcakes AND we get to look at your work!
Everyone is cheering for you, your dream - blown away by your writing, your creativity. You inspire everyone, everyday.
YOU CAN DO IT! Wow, your photos are mazing - if anyone is capable of doing a fantastic dream assignment - you are.
As you said in your flyer,
Hold fast to dreams
For if dreams die
Life is a broken-winged bird
That cannot fly.
Hold fast to dreams
For when dreams go
Life is a barren field
Frozen with snow.
Please keep having group voting and cupcake gatherings even AFTER this is over! Best wishes, your photos are great and so are you. High speed, low drag!
I had no idea you were so talented. Thanks for organizing the group. Your dream is wonderful and inspiring. Not only are you a great photograoher, but a truly gifted writer. Good Luck
So I heard the last group voting party got vanila AND choclate cupcakes - but today you just brought vanilla? Kidding, I admire your love of astronomy and your ambition to pursue this dream. You challenge yourself, which isnpires all of us.
You have such a unique vision of thw world and such a unique way in which you seek to inspire change. Your work shows that anyone with a heart and sheer determination can do something great. You are an inspiration.
GOOD LUCK! Can you out me in your travel tote? I can hold the light stick!
All of us science junkies and earth junkies and humanities junkies are all rooting for you - we've all become jangela junkies
Um, thank you for helping me with registration - and thank you for sharing your dream with us. It is an incredible journey that you'll hoefully get the opportunity to share with the world.
Amazing. You have traveled the world and shared some awesome experiences and sights through your photgraphy and your writing. Like Zach said, this is ambitious and amazing. You really are a diamond in the rough and so is this idea.
This is you - “Happy are those who dream dreams and are ready to pay the price to make them come true.”
thanks for the cupcakes!
I have a quote too! “Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.”
Your dream assignment speaks to EVERY aspect of this.
We love the cupckaes - but admire you even more.
looking forward to some more great photos from you - no matter what happens, you will continue to inspire us and grow, while creating change in this big world of ours
Good luck Jangela!
Double wow, we are all so impressed. Your work is stunning. Best wishes - we all hope to follow you in this dream assignment!
All hail the cupcake and photo queen!
I'm last line today (well here). I'll close cupcake/voting fest by saying if one dream should fall and break into a thousand pieces, never be afraid to pick one of those pieces up and begin again. YOU can do this. YOU & your photos, writing skills & love for art & humanity leaps through everything.
You can do it!
Brett from Ballston -- good luck. sounds amazing.
Janira from Ballston Animal Hospital, wishing you the best of luck !!!
good luck!
Awesome opportunity! Good Luck
Follow your dream!
This sounds just great. (Sarah from Serena)
Good luck
Do you work for Serena too? I would have voted for you regardless, this is very unique
You can do this - the whole team is here to support you, you are a great organizer and if anyone is capable of logistically pulling off a dream - you can. Kudos to you.
yay - a final voting party at the office ;) the stealth forces are behind you! Your work is so impressive and we are so excited about your new website. You really are talented.
You have done a great job coordinating a way for the office to be able to vote for you, it demonstrates your dedication to this. Your proposal is simply amazing - we can't wait to have cupcake sessions to see these photos.
we beleive in you - good luck!
wow, this proposal is simply inspiring - best wishes in getting your dream. We're rooting for you.
Honored to be a part of the vote for such a wonderful opportunity. Godspeed and God bless - Phil
You are one of the most gifted people I have ever met - really hope you get this. As many commenters have said, GO JANGELA!
I think I'll cry if you don't get this. Really, truly weep. And I'm a guy.
Um, we're gonna start a collection across the Agency to make sure you are able to fulfill this dream.
YOU CAN DO IT!
A. You wrote a true dream assignment. B.You have a fantastic blog showcasing your writing abilities. C.Your photos are breathtaking. D.You thought of cupcake voting parties at work, at nighclubs, at your home and in LA - showcasing your creativity. E.You Rock, period. You deserve to win this.
good luck jangela
You have a star on your wrist, which you once told me stood for "ad astra per infinitum" - a phrase you made in Latin class. To the stars for infinity J'angela.
I learn so much from you and about you every day. This is a great opportunity, hope you get it and share it with the world.
Good luck! Geneva wasn't able to vote. She forgot her username (or typed it wrong) and there isn't away to get it, and she can't register again with the account she has ;(
thanks for my cupcake - and GOOD LUCK.
Thanks for helping with registration - you are awesome (as you would say). This is a terrific dream and I am crossing fingers and toes (or whichever brings the most luck).
You-go-girl!
I'm sure someone has already said it, but high speed - low drag!
I hope your back feels better from all this work! Best wishes - we all know you'll make this challenge seem effortless, the mark of a true craftsman. Best wishes, and get some sleep!
Jangela,
Thanks for inviting me to be a part of this. I am happy to support this, it's incredible what you are doing.
As we've been waiting to vote, we've been reading the copies of your dream assignment. Wow, what an incredible journey you'll be able to have and share.
I searched the other day and was surprised to see that you are the only person who has an idea about photgraphing the eclipse. Pretty unique, just like you.
Wow, looks like you get some pretty neat equipment too. Best of luck to you Jay. You deserve it.
There sure are a lot of comments about cupcakes, your talent, and luck. I guess that means you are the sweetest and you really are shooting for the stars.
roger-wilco for team jangela
You sure owe Dr Duggan - got you 47 votes today.
Good luck
hope you win! best of luck!
buena suerte!!
my wife & i voted for you! good luck!!
this is a GREAT idea! suerte
I just wanted to say THANKS to ALL! Your vote, your comments, and your presence either professionally or in friendship (or both) has been an enabler for this ENTIRE process. I am a product of my environment, which includes YOU.
Anything I succeed in is due to the fact that I have some pretty stellar people in my life, who stick by - cheer me on, get in the trenches, and are supportive. Although things like this start with a dream, hope is my flame - but you are my oxygen to keep that fire alive.
SOME SPECIAL THANKS: Thanks to my friends who did the "20" challenge for votes.
Laurie and Amy in LA for hosting daily voting parties- WOW. Ionna - my "virtual campaign manager" on Facebook and MySpace.
MORE SPECIAL THANKS: Eyebar for generously allowing me to set up voting stations on Friday and Saturday nights. All the folks who rallied for "cupcake voting" at the Agency. Josie, Kim, Scuba, Raj, Todd, Felix, Nadia, Judy - who each did little things in this process that made my heart smile.
One more voting party in LA, one more cupcake rally and one more voting station at EyeBar to go!! THANKS TO EVERYONE FOR BELIEVING IN ME.
Wonderful dream assignment. Take me with you!
anyone who is interested an see my work at http://www.pinxitluc.com ;)
thankyouyouareawesomeseeyoul8ter ;)
We are wishing you the best.
I guess this it - we will be watching this, and cheering for you.
you owe us cupcakes!
You are fearless and amazing. Buenas Suerte!
You are a great organizer and have takien soe impressive photos. Good luck Jay.
You certainly gave new meaning to "rock the vote" and cupcakes have certainly been a powerful incentive around here, along with your stellar dream.
Yay, I "pic'd" it!
If you dream it and bring it into the light, you can achieve it. Best of luck.
We all really hope you get this, you have worked so tirelessly. This isn't just a hobby, it's a true passion.
I have faith in you, complete and total faith in you.
Wishing you all the best, your work is truly inspiring.
I think all of us are simply blown away, and all I can say is WOW.
Thanks for inviting me, this seems to special. You really are the innovation in the operation for figuring out a way to pull this off. Jangela = Genius.
GOOD LUCK
We all hope you get to cross that finish line! Photgraphing an eclipse would be such an incredible experience and the regions that you plan on visiting will make thiis even more unique. As you would say, "strong work."
If we couldn't dream, our lives wouldn't mean anything anymore.
GEORG KAISER
Impressive, an eclipse - Bhutan, Nepal, Tibet, and India - oh, my! A six week journey and a six minute eclipse, couldn't be a coincidence could it?
My mother is from Tibet and you have painted a spectacular journey. Hope you get the opportunity to do this.
Wish you the best of success with this, you have laid out a fascinating itinerary. A heads-up, you stepped out and Krys had an issue and couldn't vote (not sure what happened) - you may want to stop by her desk. You are great!
Hopefully you are getting closer, this dream is definitely worth pursuing and worth achieving.
This is a great proposal. You really are an instigator of change. GO JANGELA
JJJJJJJJJJJJJ - Goooooooooooooooooooood Luck. You truly are reaching for the stars. You are part Einstein, part Annie Leibowitz, part Tom Brokaw and uniquely YOU. BTW, Justin also had problems with his username - couldn't login, couldn't reset, couldn't vote ;( - can you go to his desk - he left.
"It is my goal to produce a body of work that connects a rare phenomenon, cultural experiences, and the innate raw fact that we are all human in our experience. " - This is simply beautiful of you.
Your photo site was such a pleasent surprise. We love that you shared this with us and hope we get the opportunity to follow your footsteps in this dream.
All the best to you J'Angela
888, now this is an auspicious number. Keep reaching and you will reach that great big sun in the sky and will be able to capture the path for the world to see.
Bona fortuna!
It is difficult not to get wrapped into the excitement for you. Good luck!
Let the adventure begin for ALL of us!
I ate the last cupcake! But there are some people left on the list waiting to log their votes. We are all cheering for you!
Put me in your suitcase because this sounds like a dream, truly.
As the Russians say, udacha! Mongolia will be a very special place to do what you propose.
I cannot even begin to imagine what aerial photos of the Himilayas would be like (at least being the person taking them). You are brave and special.
good luck, good, luck, good, luck. And kurt DID take the last cupcake - but we're hanging around for YOU!
I am 900 ;) If you swing through Bombay, you can stay with my family - but you should swing through Bombay anyway ;)
Everything you have described is a photographer's paradise. We look forward to seeing these pictures on your website (if the Agency doesn't block it).
Good luck Jangela! Skuba and I are rooting for you!
Thanks to Skuba I voted for you! Good luck I hope you get this!
The whole Ballston gang stands by to support!
Good luck, this sounds pretty neat
Read this on the cards while waiting, this is really cool. Good luck on the journey.
This REALLY ROCKS - be sure to snap some pics of the wildlife too!
You have a really great perspective on this. And some pretty great photos!
I really love how you have incorporated capturing the eclipse into this entire assignment. Such a rare phenomenon along with the culture should bring some interesting experiences and images.
We all hope you get "pic'd"!
GOOD LUCK!
I know for a fact that there are a ton of people in China who are pretty psyched about the eclipse. Wow - this is great.
our team is rooting for you
I know it's crunch time and there's a line for voting/registration - BUT I had to comment on how AWESOME YOU AND THIS PROPOSAL ARE! Good luck all the animal hospital folks are here for you!
Good Luck!
Double, triple, quadruple - wow!
I saw your flyer and had to come in and vote - good luck. Sounds like this will make an incredible documentary.
best wishes - this sounds like a pretty great thing, I really love the concept of images as an evocation of change.
Your nature pictures are really nice. This will be a challenge, but based on your portfolio that we are seeing, we all think you can do it.
jangela, can you take me with you? Good luck!
HAO YUN!
Great pictures and a great itinerary - good luck!
go,go,go....YOU CAN DO IT!
I love how you put langston hughes on your flyers ;)
jangela! Good luck! If you dont win, I will PERSONALLY take you to see the lunar eclipse! Love you gir!
you are a pretty amazing person to do this!
You really are the greatest EVER
jangela, great idea. maybe you can come take pictures of me @ tatoo. by the way come work for me @ lotus.
I think you are the serenity in the ring of fire.
Don't stop believing in your dreams.
Don't stop believing in your dreams.
great dream!
It's winding down and we all didn't get a chance to vote tonight - but all of us at the Ballston Animal Hospital are rooting for you. This is a fabulous dream, we hope you get to live, capture and document it for the world to see.
FatherJohn
I like your idea!
I voted for you, will you vote for me? Let's do this and see how it turns out. Let's help each other!
Good luck!