Small Pause, and a New Beginning

Light, shadow and the quietness — the moment of healing

Hi All,

The past month didn’t unfold the way I planned.

Just as I was preparing to reopen my photography business, an unfortunate fall left me with a broken wrist. I ended up hospitalized, underwent surgery, and spent weeks in recovery.

General anesthesia hit me hard — the brain fog lingered for weeks.

I couldn’t hold a camera, or even chopsticks. Because the injury was on my dominant hand, I couldn’t write, tie my hair, dress, or even take care of simple daily tasks.

Everything slowed to a crawl.

But the surgery went well, and time truly is the best medicine. Day by day, my hand is regaining strength and mobility, and I’m following my physical therapist’s instructions like an obedient child.

The most desperate days are behind me.

I’m hopeful now.

Healing is slow, but it gave me time to reflect, recognize what matters, and rebuild with intention. And today, I’m happy to share some good news:

My New Website Is Ready

With my left-hand typing skills (newly mastered out of necessity), I worked little by little to complete a refreshed website for WillowPhoto.me.

To View My New Website

It’s ready — and I hope you enjoy it.

While my cameras was rested, I took on translation assignments.

I’ve enjoyed being a bridge between cultures, and it reminded me how deeply I want to do the same here in Japan — with my camera.

If you ever plan to visit Japan, I hope you’ll consider experiencing this country with me.

I would be honored to help you capture beautiful memories.

My wrist still needs a bit more time before I can fully return to photography sessions.

You might think reopening the website now is too soon — but this is me setting my intention, planting a flag for where I want to go next.

Thank you for your encouragement and support.

I can’t wait to hold my cameras again.

And I look forward to the day our paths cross here in Japan.

Warmly,

Mieko