Goodbye, Farewell and Goodnight

Krahnpix was always an odd combination of wildlife photos and my eclectic version of wit. I’m pretty sure I was the biggest fan. I suppose that was a natural outcome of pouring my heart and soul into a project.

_MG_5167 - Version 2Through good times and bad, I passionately chased wildlife, learned a few tricks of the trade and tried to find creative ways to write about my images. I discovered that I probably got better photos than I deserved and not everyone connected with my sense of humour – though it was a thrill when someone did! I liked calling myself a blogger.

Time passed and I kept churning out the posts. But then a few days ago, I entertained the idea of ending this blog. I was surprised to feel more relief than sadness.

Somewhere along the way, my passion for wildlife photos had lost an edge. It became obvious what it would take to get to the next level of wildlife photography. I simply wasn’t willing to get that cold, uncomfortable or bored. The joy had begun leaking out.

When I looked ahead to my ideas for future blogs, none of them seemed to measure up. I had put great effort into creating quality posts and I wouldn’t want to do it any other way. Krahnpix had come to an end and I was simply catching up with reality.

Four years ago I started this blog without a plan and any expectations. Through 300 posts, it was a true adventure. I never imagined that I would come in contact with such wonderful readers and be blessed by thousands of complimentary comments. I also never imagined that 2012 would be the year I got the most blog views followed by a healthy decline every year thereafter. It’s actually quite amusing.

I am currently reading about the benefits of failing and knowing how to end well. I’ve got the theory down but the application is still a work in progress. While at first blush it might seem a bit harsh, this blog has been a good fail. I have learned a lot, had great fun and would do it all over again. Still the time has come to say goodbye and cherish the memories. That’s a good thing.

Farewell Krahnpix. Thanks for sharing the adventure.

 

DT6C1895

 

Latest Comments

  1. hannele says:

    I’ve been away from this world for a few months, so here is a very late comment…

    Thank you! Thank you for all the laughs and the inspiration and the awe. Your blog was one of two or three that I always looked forward to finding an update on. I understand the need to end and move on, though. IF you start posting photos or writing or anything else online, do let me know. I’ve always greatly enjoyed both your photography style, and your humour.

    Be well, take care!

    Like

    • Lyle Krahn says:

      Thanks so much. Your comments were always a joy especially since you enjoyed my humour. It was always good to connect with you and see where your photo adventures would take me.

      I haven’t picked up the camera this summer but I don’t know what will happen down the road.

      All the best with your summer and beyond.

      Liked by 1 person

  2. Dalo 2013 says:

    Lyle, a sad surprise. Your writing as well as the quality of photographs you produced made such a great impact in terms of high-quality enjoyment receiving your posts, but to me the more important piece was the inspiration of your ‘art and effort’. Quality. I can understand the reasoning, but still hope you will reconsider and throw some posts are way when you are in the mood. Enjoy retirement 🙂

    Like

    • Lyle Krahn says:

      I always appreciated your comments and enjoyed our interaction. Thanks. I was always amazed at how you kept up with so many people. Your blog was always a marvel of photos and writing in a unique space. Enjoy the journey.

      Like

      • Dalo 2013 says:

        I do hope you supply us with a post every now and then, would be great to see what you’ve been up to (and a little more humor spread around in the world is not a bad thing either!!). My blogging has slowed down a bit, but when I do get back to it ~ I realize the pieces I love about it. Cheers to a great summer ahead.

        Liked by 1 person

  3. Inger says:

    I am very sad to read this post Lyle. After discovering your blog is fast became one of my favourites. Your photos are always top notch and I love your sense of humour! I would never call it a fail, I would call it an adventure. Will you still be active on other social media platforms?

    All the best,
    Inger

    Like

    • Lyle Krahn says:

      I’m pleased to read your comments. I certainly enjoyed following along on your adventures. I have been taking a break from posting much but I’m still around on Facebook. All the best with your adventures.

      Liked by 1 person

  4. Garden Walk Garden Talk says:

    I am sorry to see you go. While I have commented less in the last year, I have still followed your photos and commentary. You could say I was silently viewing. I am sure your blog is still getting many visits due to your exceptional photography and variety of wildlife. Good luck in your travels where they might take you.

    Like

  5. Jerry Gedir says:

    Sad to see the blog go Lyle. Thanks for ride. You have got talent! Blessings. 
    Jerry Gedir

    Like

  6. pronghornwildlife2 says:

    Really sorry to see you go. I have loved your photography and actually appreciate your sense of humor. But I get it, while the photography is a never ending challenge and pleasure (for me), keeping a blog going is not an easy thing (witness the very spasmodic nature of mine). At any rate, have a helluva good time with whatever comes next.

    Like

    • Lyle Krahn says:

      I appreciate your comments. The blog was a lot of work and a good run. It provided a wonderful opportunity to interact with people like you. All the best in your endeavours as well.

      Like

  7. MJF Images says:

    Oh say it ain’t so! You’ll be missed Lyle, I hope you find the spark again for photography, and never stop appreciating wildlife (I know you won’t). Meantime enjoy the Stanley Cup! Regards, Michael

    Like

    • Lyle Krahn says:

      I appreciate that. I have found that the path through creativity is not a straight line so after a break I’ll see where it leads. I have thoroughly enjoyed our exchanges as well as your amazing photos. Keep the fire!

      Like

  8. toughlittlebirds says:

    Oh no! I definitely understand – a blog is a lot more work than it seems, and it’s something that should only be done as long as you’re getting something out of it. I definitely wouldn’t say ending it makes it a failure! Everything has a lifespan. No one said that you have to do something forever in order for it to have been worthwhile and wonderful. Too, the great thing about a blog is that the work you’ve done remains: people will still be able to enjoy your photography skills and wit, even if you aren’t adding new posts. Thanks for all your work blogging, and I hope you enjoy the extra time you’ll have now!

    Like

    • Lyle Krahn says:

      Yes a blog is a lot of work and also a great creative outlet. I look back on a wonderful season of blogging that included you. Thanks for sharing the journey. I suppose your blog gets even better now that you have your degree!

      Like

  9. Anonymous says:

    Thanks for the stunning pictures and nice texts. We were always looking forward for a new post from krahnpix…
    Take care!

    Like

  10. Anonymous says:

    I wouldn’t call it a failure but an accomplishment/ goal/ dream that has been fulfilled

    Like

  11. dda53 says:

    “I’d love to hear what you are thinking….” Well here it is….You’re a failure….Your failure has brought a smile to others that will never see or experience what you have posted. It doesn’t have to be such a regular posting but only a snippet of an outing. People have built relationships and recognize each other through your failings. Your failure has inspired others to try harder or just to get outside and enjoy what nature has to offer with no expectations. Yes, you’re a failure and people want more. Now is not the time to Win! It is the time to fail!

    Like

    • Lyle Krahn says:

      I have been trying to compose a witty repose but it’s not coming so I will just say thank you. Your words leave me a lot to think about. I was always grateful when you stopped by the blog. Thanks for the inspiring photos you shared over the years.

      Like

  12. janeslog says:

    Your photos were always great. Keep on with your passion.Never give up on something which is good.

    Like

  13. Dick Trew says:

    By my count, you expressed at least three times (in the blog plus comment replies) that you’d do it again! Allow me to join others in expressing the heartfelt hope that it may be so. I believe that great artists have frequently experienced an ebb and flow to their greatest work. My sincere hope is that this is part of your journey’s ebb and flow and that you will include us in future sharing of your creative expressions. I resonated with more than the delicious images (not every one could be described that way, of course!), more than the humourous reflections on life, I found (wow, I’m not yet comfortable with a past tense reference to one of my genuine on-line pleasures) your personal sharing meaningful, engaging, thought-provoking and disarming. The humour would often lead me to reflect on the community of friends who joined in with laughter! I invited several of my friends and contacts to take pleasure in your work. I wish you well, my friend, but hold the hope that there is another part of the journey we get to join you in. Peace to you and yours!

    Like

    • Lyle Krahn says:

      Thanks so much for being part of the journey and the expressions of connection. It was a wonderful ride with those who followed along. I leave with a sense of satisfaction of what I did and the joy of sharing my wonderful encounters with wildlife with the unlikely touch of humour. Thanks for your support. We will see what the future holds

      Like

  14. sheketechad says:

    Aw Lyle. You must follow your heart (but don’t take the site down!) I run three blogs (writing, photography and poetry) and posted daily on all of them for a run. Then, I just burned out. I still write and post, when I have the time and desire. Poetry comes and goes. Photography, well, taking on a six-year old put a kebosh on that for a while.

    Do what makes you happy and know you will be missed. And we don’t mind if you come back only when you feel like it, to make us giggle and delight us with your gorgeous shots!

    Be well.

    Like

    • Lyle Krahn says:

      The heart sometimes takes on unexpected turns along the way – I suppose this is one of them. I plan to leave the site up for now. Thanks for enjoying my work. I spent one evening reading about the turns your life has taken and marvelled at how you cope. I wish you all the best in your journey.

      Liked by 1 person

  15. dweezer19 says:

    But you WILL be publishing a coffee table book filled with your amazing wildlife photos and entertaining antecdotes….right? RIGHT?!!
    Superb work my friend. You should consider it a great success. No failure here..

    Like

    • Lyle Krahn says:

      I really appreciate the sentiment. The photos haven’t gone away and I still enjoy writing so we will see where the next trail leads. Thanks for reading along. I may not have reached my dreams but I value the success I had. All the best.

      Like

  16. jane tims says:

    Hi. I have seen some wildlife photos here that are the best I’ve seen. I took a brief hiatus this summer from my blog, mostly since I couldn’t think of much to say. Now, with a couple of new projects underway, I am off and running again. Perhaps this will provide a break for you and someday you will return. Thanks for all the wonderful glimpses of wild life! Jane

    Liked by 1 person

    • Lyle Krahn says:

      I hope your break continues to feed your creativity – it often worked in the past for me. I’m glad you enjoyed the wildlife – I had some amazing encounters. All the best.

      Liked by 1 person

  17. cconifer says:

    sad to see ya go and yet…. it’s so great to be able to let it go, &, if someday. you never know. i’m sure it will feed whatever you do next immensely…. may your creativity continue to flower, not matter the medium~

    Liked by 1 person

  18. Janes Heartsong says:

    Wow, so many endings right now. sad to see you go, I have been writing less and hard to post since I have moved out and am in-between., so it looks like I too, have to at least take a hiatus. I have enjoyed your wit, your photos and hope you find the creative juices flowing again. Enjoy the spring and summer.Do you have a website?

    Like

    • Lyle Krahn says:

      Change seems to be inevitable and we all seem to have it find us. I’m glad you enjoyed my posts. You have a great summer as well. I don’t have another website.

      Like

  19. Earth Under my Feet says:

    It’s been such a treat reading about your antics and “meeting” the wildlife from your part of the planet. Thank you for sharing with us for 4 years and 300 posts and for getting cold and wet in the process oftentimes. Try not to drive Mrs Krahnpix crazy now you have a lot more free time on your hands 🙂 Best wishes, Karen

    Like

  20. FeyGirl says:

    I completely understand your sentiments; when you put so very much into a piece / blog — and in your words and images, you truly did / do! But I don’t believe you ever lost your edge. Your work is gorgeous and moving. I’m so sorry to see you go — perhaps it’s just a hiatus, and when the inspiration lightning-strikes you, you’ll revisit as needed, peeping up like one of your beautiful wild critters? 😉

    Like

    • Lyle Krahn says:

      Thanks for your understanding and support over the years. You understand that the passion that goes into a blog and conveyed it so well on your blog. It’s always a surprise when creatures pop up – we will see what happens down the road.

      Liked by 1 person

  21. Tubbyman says:

    Sorry to see you go, your pictures have been great, and your posts witty and interesting. Take a break and I hope to see another post in the future!

    Like

  22. Karolyn Cooper says:

    I will miss the hawks on bales. Krahnpix has been a great blog.

    Like

  23. Michelle at The Green Study says:

    I’ve been checked out of the blogging world for awhile and step back in to find that everything is changing. I’ve appreciated your sense of humor and your beautiful pictures. We’ve exchanged comments on blogging ambivalence before, so I understand your decision – especially the sense of relief of letting go. And there’s a level of impermanence to blogging, which means you can always come back if you miss it. Take care and have a wonderful, blog-free summer!

    Like

    • Lyle Krahn says:

      Yes the impermanence of blogging is one of the joys and frustrations which is one of the reasons I chose to put a marker in the sand. The relief still stands but the future always seems to turn out different than I expect. We shall see. I always appreciated exchanging comments with you over the years and smiled many times at way you described life. Thanks. I wish you all the best with your writing in all forms.

      Liked by 1 person

  24. Bev says:

    I am Mandy’s Mum and have so enjoyed following your blog, your beautiful photos and your quirky sense of humour. I will miss you.

    Like

    • Lyle Krahn says:

      Well it’s pleasure to hear from you. Thank you so much for the compliments. I am pleased that I was able to provide some entertainment and amusement.

      Like

  25. Cornell says:

    I have enjoyed your blog, your phots and many of your stories.
    Maybe you will update from time to time some galleries with your photos.

    Like

    • Lyle Krahn says:

      Thanks for your appreciation. I had a lot of fun with the blog and connecting with people like you.

      I don’t know what my plans are for the future but I will keep that mind. All the best with your photography.

      Liked by 1 person

  26. Erika says:

    Loved your photos and your posts! Your blog will be missed. I’m happy to have had the chance to follow along. Farewell!

    Like

  27. John Siller says:

    Lyle you are one of the first guys that was helping me out on SWP when I picked up a camera again… Had a soft spot for you ever since. Your work is something I strive to achieve, and has been an example of what I need to capture to get better at this hobby. I have enjoyed your articles and indeed looked forward to them. There was always a smile buried in them somewhere. Great disappointment at my end… However I am sure you have good reason and look forward to connecting with you again sometime…. Take care Lyle… 😉 Thanks for sharing this blog…

    Like

    • Lyle Krahn says:

      I really appreciate those comments. I always enjoyed your outlook on life and sense of humour. I am a sucker for that. It’s been fun to watch your photography journey and dramatic improvement. I only wish I had all the wildlife photography opportunities you had! I wish you all the best with your photography and I’ll be watching you on FB.

      Like

  28. Lavinia Ross says:

    Lyle – I would not consider your blog a failure, by any means. It is not the number of hits that is important, but the sense of community and the people you reach that matters most. Sometimes we all need to take a break from doing something, and that is understandable. But for us all never to hear from you again or see those outstanding wildlife photos would not be.

    You and your family are now people I “know” through the blogosphere. A downright nice neighborhood you are in, and a wonderful neighbor. I started blogging in 2013 and did not know what to expect, what I would find. I feel quite honored to have stumbled across you through Mandy’s blog. Hopefully our paths will cross again, and I will see Melicia the Muskrat and cohorts in the future.

    Enjoy your time off, but keep that quirky sense of humor, and keep your camera ready. Until then…

    Like

    • Lyle Krahn says:

      I was pretty sure you were the number one commenter on my blog and I just checked and confirmed that. I can’t thank you enough for your kind thots, encouragement and inspiration. It was so good to connect over the years as good neighbours in blog world. You are absolutely correct about the success of the community that hung around this blog and more hits would never, ever replace that.

      You may have noticed I have a slight flair for the dramatic which led me to the good fail comment. In the reading I have done, the emphasis is on the good part. While the community part far exceeded my expectations, I had bigger dreams which didn’t come to pass. I am completely at peace with that and happy to try to end well. Given the chance I would absolutely do it again. I think my positive experiences will help me build on whatever adventures await. We will see where that leads.

      As for the quirky sense of humour, that’s here to stay and will probably need an outlet somewhere.

      Liked by 1 person

  29. Mandy says:

    Noooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

    Like

  30. magschreiner says:

    Now that just makes me sad! Your blog inspired me to start my blog…and if I was to compare your estimate of a failed blog to mine, well, let’s just say that mine would be categorized as an epic fail! I enjoy your photos and I totally get your humour! Krahnpix will be missed in our household. Perhaps it is just ‘bye for now’?!

    Like

    • Lyle Krahn says:

      Sorry to make you sad! Though I am happy to hear of the inspiration and the humour connection. I did say it was a good fail and by that I mean that I didn’t reach my dreams but they were set pretty high. Bet you didnt know I was dreamer. It was good in that I had many successes, connections to people and would absolutely do it all over again if given that chance. I am learning that it’s good to reach out and experiment with different adventures and they will all help with whatever happens in the future. I think you have many adventures to write about and I hope you continue. As for the ‘bye for now’ I will never say never but I expect there will a different path to pursue. Thanks so much for following along my journey.

      Like

  31. Dana S. Hugh says:

    Well…, best wishes. And sorry for not being the best reader!

    Like

  32. Rebecca says:

    Your photos have been beautiful and inspiring and your posts have been uplifting and fun to read. Your presence will be missed.

    Like

  33. Anonymous says:

    I have really enjoyed your photos and your humour! Thanks for sharing! All the best!

    Like

  34. martagajo says:

    So sorry 😦 but all the best to you and a lots of new wonderful projects 🙂

    Like

  35. Mind Margins says:

    Oh no! Your blog hasn’t been a failure at all. It isn’t all about the numbers. It’s about the connections you make. I always enjoyed your photos and your sense of humor. Best of luck to you in future endeavors!

    Like

    • Lyle Krahn says:

      Thanks so much. It’s been the connections with people like you that have kept this adventure going for so long. That part is an unqualified success. I’m glad we connected and I could be part of your journey as well. I wish you all the best as well.

      Liked by 1 person

  36. Mike Bizeau says:

    I will miss your wit it has been a pleasure. Good luck for the future.

    Like

  37. Theresa K says:

    Hey Lyle, my old colleague. I’ve always been more of a lurker, but I have to say I found it comforting to get my updates from Krahnpix and take a peak at your photos which, to my eye, have always been very impressive. Wish you well in whatever adventure comes next!

    Like

    • Lyle Krahn says:

      Hey good to hear from you again! Lurker is an amusing description. Thanks for the checking them out and following the journey. We shall see what new adventure awaits.

      Like

  38. Pam says:

    Best wishes! I have enjoyed the journey.

    Like

  39. Samuel says:

    I’m very sad to read that 😦
    All the best!

    Like

  40. Steve Gingold says:

    All good things, etc. I am not sure what one needs to do for a blog to be a success, but I guess the number one requirement is to enjoy yourself. If that’s not working then it’s time to go sometimes. As you can see, you were maybe a little more successful than you might think, judging by all the comments. I echo enjoying your posts and am sorry to see them end. I hope you keep on shooting for your own pleasure. If you do nothing else, I am sure you’ll be a grandpa with a camera. 🙂

    Like

    • Lyle Krahn says:

      It’s funny how that iPhone camera comes to life when the grandkids are around! You are right about that. We will see what other adventures await. It’s been great to get to know you. I know you’ll keep tramping through the bush and fighting off ticks while you capture those amazing photos. All the best.

      Liked by 1 person

  41. Scott K Marshall says:

    Noooooooooooooo I haven’t caught up yet!!!! I get yer humour 🙂

    Like

  42. David says:

    Best wishes for you. I sincerely enjoyed you photos and prose.

    Like

  43. Susan Portnoy says:

    Wahh… I will miss your blog and your humor, Lyle. 😦

    Like

  44. Alison says:

    Say it isn’t so! I will miss your wonderful sense of humor, delightful musings and beautiful wildlife photography. But, I do understand the desire to retire from blogging–it’s a LOT of work to put out quality posts like yours, and, if you aren’t enjoying it the way you used to, you are right to pull the plug. I hope you enjoy your new sense of freedom, but I will be secretly hoping you find you can’t stand not sharing your many talents with us. 🙂
    Cheers!
    Alison

    Like

    • Lyle Krahn says:

      Your kind comments were always an inspiration for me. I have had a good run but, as you know from your blog, posts don’t just appear. All the best in your travels – I hope you continue to be amazed!

      Like

  45. Milt Block says:

    Thankyou. I never read them all but enjoyed every one I did

    Like

  46. Brian says:

    Lyle, say it isn’t so. I will miss not only the inspiring photos, but also the wonderfully witty commentary. Maybe baby pictures are more in your future now.
    Good bye Krahnpix, we’re going to miss you.

    Liked by 1 person

  47. Gunta says:

    I, for one, will miss your posts terribly! I always looked forward to the email telling me you had posted. Perhaps I’ll end up following your lead since life seems to be getting in the way of blogging a lot lately. But I’ll likely keep at it as long as I feel I have something to share albeit not as often. Yet to be determined. Just know that you will sincerely be missed!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Lyle Krahn says:

      I still remember the day you signed up for my blog with a colourful comment about wanting to delete blogs and now you had to follow another one. I have thoroughly enjoyed your unique perspective ever since. You made my day many times. You too will be missed!

      Liked by 1 person

  48. Kerry Statham says:

    I’ll miss your commentary and your images Lyle… All the best.

    Like

  49. Tuxedo Sophisticated Cat says:

    I have enjoyed your blog and will miss you. Best wishes to you in your future endeavors.

    Like

  50. modaallamoda says:

    Bellissime foto

    Like

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