A tough decision...

[Kirsten]

Karen and caseysmom; your words almost brought tears to my eyes... Yes, she's my friend for many years (since we were 13 years old), and even though she lives far apart meanwhile, we're talking on the phone almost every day. And she knows what it means to me, taking pics and everything...

[Freckles]

I agree with what Mayor Karen said.

[Karen]

And don't forget how much your pictures mean to all of us! If you don't accept this gift, I'll tell mentally Lily and Luna to pounce on your toes when you least expect it ....

(How's that for a threat ...)

[pomtzu]

Absolutely, Kirsten, let your friend give you this gift, and you in return will give so much of yourself and your talent to others in return. I don't believe you realize just how much joy you bring to people thru your photography, and how much therapy it is to you also. I would hate to see an end to your photographs being posted here, as I so look forward to seeing your work, and I know that many others feel the same.

[Shady]

Kirsten, in your post you said you didn't think you deserved this gift. A friend thinks you do, that's extremely clear by her offer...and I would bet my bottom dollar that you might hurt her feelings if you decline, plus in light of your present camera situation, and your very obvious talent for photography, it would be a great shame if you couldn't perform, share etc.

Couldn't you find a way with your talent to show your appreciation somehow through your photography?

IMO, accept graciously, and use your talent as your friend intends you to, you have much too much not to use, plus you need it in your life...perhaps also you might find you could somehow supplement your income with it in the future!

[moosmom]

Kirsten,

I've seen your work and it is DYNAMIC!!!! If your longtime friend offered the help, you should take it. Who SAYS you don't deserve it??? If anyone deserves it, it's you!!!

I always believe in paying it forwards. I know how much your photography means to you. Please let her help.

[finn's mom]

Giving a gift is one of the greatest blessings in life. Let her give this gift to you.

[cassiesmom]

I counted 16 favs on your last week of photos on the 365 project (at least two of which are mine ) For a year that is 832 favs, 832 people who enjoyed a picture of yours so much that they faved it, not to mention the numbers of people who viewed and didn't fav. That's 832 people who were blessed by something you did -- and that includes ME!!

So I agree with everyone! Accept, accept and use your talent -- I agree with Moosmom: "If anyone deserves it, it's you!" And with Pomtzu, I would hate to see an end to your photography because your camera has reached the end of its life.

[dukedogsmom]

Its called a gift for a reason. Don't deny her that happiness. She wouldn't have offered if she didn't want to do it. And she knows how much joy you get from photography. You're worth every bit of that new camera and more. I know you've been having life really tough and I think this would be a big boost for you.

[Catty1]

Learn to be a gracious receiver. Perhaps in the future you can send her a special photo as a gift!

Is there a per rescue near you? Perhaps you could offer to do pet photos as a fund-raiser at one of their events! In today's society, it is easy to think that only money matters - but giving of our talents is worth so much more!

As Tolstoy said, "The world will be saved by beauty."

[redbird]

Karen and caseysmom; your words almost brought tears to my eyes... Yes, she's my friend for many years (since we were 13 years old), and even though she lives far apart meanwhile, we're talking on the phone almost every day. And she knows what it means to me, taking pics and everything...

Kirsten, I agree with the others and you should let your friend help you if she wants. I have seen your photography and by taking your pictures and sharing them, you are bringing beauty to all of us. I don't want to stop seeing that beauty so accept the camera and share the photo's with us

[Edwina's Secretary]

I have a friend who likes to give gifts. At first I was between being offended and "what should I get her in return?" Eventually I came to realize the gift I could give her was to accept her gifts and appreciate her. So I do.

I like the phrase above "Gracious Receiver." So true.

[Catty1]

Kirsten - if there were no receivers, there would be a lot of heartbroken givers!

If it were me, I would be feeling so happy that I could afford to help a dear friend!

Share in her happiness. Receive.

[RICHARD]

If your camera is taking dirty pictures, could you send me copies?

[Scooter's Mom]

If your camera is taking dirty pictures, could you send me copies?

LOL, why is it Richard is the first one to think of this reply?