January 4, 2024

Happy New Year!!! 

I rang in the new year the best way I know how – with my 3 besties 🥰 

With the start to each new year, I like to take time to reflect and make positive changes. Social media is a highlight reel, but honestly 2023 was a very hard year for me. It was a year full of navigating how to be a business owner while simultaneously being a “stay at home” mom to my two littles. Though that reads like a simple sentence, in reality it almost feels like the impossible. Having set work hours is non-existent. As a person who thrives off of work & accomplishments, this has been the biggest challenge for me. Knowing my work to-do list gets pushed to the back burner until nap time (and that is if we get a nap time). Knowing a small business grows most rapidly from word of mouth and good word of mouth comes from a great experience — knowing the experience is hindered when inquiries + messages aren’t responded to in a timely manner & when galleries are delayed due to behind the scenes of trying to work is “mama,” “mommy,” “come play with me,” “want to make cookies,” “rock rock,” “want milk,” “want to snuggle you,” “hold me,” “ready to go outside.” In addition, I’m sure any business owner can testify that business undoubtedly will interfere with personal life. It has been hard bringing business into a marriage and family. What once was separate work and personal is now all intertwined. 

But we know there is opposition in all things. And the contrast to these challenges is the beauty in it all: 

• I’ve wanted to be a mom for as long as I can remember. I dreamt of the days I’m in now where I get to hear and respond to their sweet calls for mama. I am so blessed to be present in their lives and have a job that allows me to spend all of my days with them and make the sweetest memories. Being a mom is my most sacred and honorable calling here on earth. I will cherish it eternally. 

• I have received endless support from my sweet husband. He cooks while I try to wrap up a few more edits. He plays with the kids while I take a minute for myself or on client calls. He drives so I can respond to messages on the way. He understands that taking care of the babies is a full-time job in itself and checks in to see what he can do to make my life easier. His service to me has strengthened our relationship. We also value our time together more and intentionally carve out time from our schedules to plan date nights with one another. 

• Giving it all to HIM. My relationship with Jesus Christ has strengthened. He has made my burdens feel light. He carries me when I don’t think I have any more to give. I’m reminded that life is more than “success.” We are each here for a divine purpose and to do His will. Families are the center of the Lord’s plan. How lucky I am to use my talents to capture + celebrate the start to so many families as they become one in marriage. 

• Realizing I can’t do it all. Towards the end of this year I hired help. Shelby has been the perfect addition to this business and is such a blessing to me. She helps all of the tasks on my to-do list come to fruition and takes on any + everything I throw at her. 

• I have struggled this year with my mental health. I found best psychiatrist. After many appointments and testing, I was diagnosed with uncontrolled ADHD. Medication has changed my life. 

With all that said, my word for 2024 is INTENTIONAL.  

My reflection points keep circling me back to one thing – time. I want the way I spend my time to be more intentional. We all know that babies don’t keep and somehow time goes by faster with each passing year. I want to be more present in my personal life. I want to spend more quality time with loved ones and give them the undivided attention they deserve. I need to intentionally set aside time to give to the Lord. I need to plan out my week and set those specific work hours. I also want to be more intentional with the images I create. I want you to see the raw emotions, love, and connection in your relationships. 

So here’s to the new year full of good intentions!