I love you.

I hope you don't mind this outpouring of affection from me, in such a public forum. But I just can't contain my feelings for you any longer.

The day Dirk placed you in my hands, I was filled with such awe and wonder at your beauty. You're a beast - and I mean that in the most complimentary way possible.

Though I knew I loved you at first sight, I wasn't sure if things would work out between us. I felt that I was trying too hard - as new love often makes people do.  Gabe, who was very new to photography then, was seeming to have more success at wooing you than I was. Then, one day, I had you in my hands at the Volkswagen repair shop near my home, and you and I suddenly understood each other. I found my groove with you, and, I believe, you with me.  I grew to love the feeling of turning your film winding crank, to adore the THWACK of your shutter release. I felt one with you.

I took you nearly everywhere I went - when Gabe wasn't having his alone time with you, that is (I had to overcome issues with jealously during these times.) Gabe I and made trips to places like downtown Memphis and Bolivar, Tennessee JUST to spend time with you. You were integrated into my everyday life, seeing what I saw and capturing the images of (and hearts of) those people nearest and dearest to me.

Then came the day when I walked back into Memphis Photo Supply - the site of our first meeting - and was informed that you had to go back to  the one with whom you belonged. Oh, the pain of separation. Shakespeare put it best when he said "Parting is such sweet sorrow." But I suppose our relationship had run its course.

I don't know if we'll ever cross paths again, or if I'll just find someone new who reminds me of you.

I'll remember you, always, Hassy.

Love,
Amanda

Memories Hassy and I shared together...

(you may click on these thumbnails to view larger versions of the photos)

(to view the photos Gabe made with the Hasselblad 500 C/M, you may click here)