Stranger 19 ~ John

The North Market always seems to draw a very eclectic crowd - both in vendors & visitors. There is a certain mood/feel that I love about the place- & apparently so do a lot of other people! There are farmers markets here on the weekends (in season) & small art fairs... & of course musicians. I have never seem more than 1 at a time - perhaps there is an unspoken agreement or unspoken schedule they adhere to. The day I was there, John was serenading the lunch crowd. What really drew me to him, other than his great voice, was his big smile. He was quite happy to take part in the 31 Strangers in 31 Days project! And as I was leaving, he thanked me for maybe giving him a bit more exposure!

When I started this project 19 days ago, I wasn't sure I would be able to finish it. Now I don't really want it to end!

Stranger #18 ~ Reika

More of my North Market strangers! After savoring Lac Viet pho ga for lunch, we had to stop at Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams. Their goat cheese & cherries is to die for! So while at Jeni's, I photographed Reika. She had the most beautiful smile. I am really loving this project! It is becoming easier to get the feel for who will probably participate in the 31 Strangers in 31 Days Project. And I'm discovering that this connecting with people I don't even know is having an effect on me similar to the 30 Days of Gratitude Project! I find when you open up to people, take a real moment with them & smile, that they will usually do the same!