Well, theres a few things I was thinking about when I set this up. Sometimes I feel as if I'm hidden in the shadows or looking in from the outside a lot by a few things. It's my personality for sure. I'm surronded by vibrant social people but I'm very passive and shy most of the time. Then I'm in the shadows only to come out for my kids when they need me (represented by the scooter). Then, being the only female in the family with my husband and two boys I do feel as if I'm looking in from the outside more than once or twice. I also am a little pensive about my photography abilities and sitting on the outside looking into WS at the great photographers here makes me feel a bit overwhelmed.

Kim, thanks for sharing, the story behind this image really makes it real (don't know how to explain)...

You do make a sad impression and this seems to be because of you being outside. Like you stated.
So, since you do know what makes you sad, why not try to get inside?
There might be things that try to keep you out, but go ahead and shove those problems/issues aside and enjoy the breeze!
Of corse being outside sometimes has its benefits as well.
I hope you are doing fine Kim!
Take care, I really like your photographs!

And now it seems that was an effect you were going for.

You're not hidden in the shadows on Weekly Shot or Vazaar. Your talents are shining through strongly. Keep up the good work.

@dave - Thank you very much.

@philippe - It was either keep the top of the scooter of crop the feet since this is cropped in camera. I don't have a remote so you should have seen how many times I ran over after hitting self-timer. Kind of hard to keep a straight face for a serious portrait. :o) I opted for the scooter since it told more than my feet. I understand about chopping off body parts though, it shouldn't be done.

@ChriZ - Thank you for the kind words. Alls well, just an emotion I wanted to emphasize.

@klimin - I may have put a lot of contrast since I was going for a darker look.

@kadenajack - Your a sweetheart. Sometimes I get a bit discouraged and wish I had someplace to take classes but will have to wait until I get back to the states. I love the WS and Vazaar community though.

And now I know the story behind the shot, and what you were trying to achieve, I know why they're there. Nice work.

Looking at this and then your previous submissions and going back to your blog it's hard for me to imagine you feeling like you are ever on the outside, maybe that's because I look at your submissions and your adventures and I live vicariously through you. I'm always amazed at what you achieve.

@ hummingbird - Thank you very much. I do have a great life right now living in Italy and experiencing other parts of the world. Thank you so much for your comment.

Kim,this is a very moving shot.If a photo can make my eyes well up,I'd say that is a powerful
photo indeed!
I think the shadows are an integral feature of
this picture.