Gratitude + Fall Sessions

"In everything, give thanks."

1 Thessalonians 5:18

Hello!  It's been a while... When I started this new little journey in my life, I had great intentions of writing now and then about my own personal experiences.  Easy right?  Wrong!  This past month and a half have been an absolute whirlwind.  I knew that the Fall season would be busy, but I didn't realize how busy.  Since the beginning of October I've been constantly running from here to there and playing catch-up (to never actually feel that I'm caught up!).  Trying to start up and build my "business" (on top of everything else that comes along with life) has left me feeling a little bit spent.  Not in a bad, "what in the world am I doing?!" way, but a "whew, I've got to figure out a better way to do this!" way.  Have you ever felt like that?  

 As things are starting to wind down a little, I'm able to take a step back and reflect.  What I'm left with feeling is... Gratitude.  I am humbled and so grateful for the many blessings that God has poured into my life the past couple months.  Not only has He set out a path for me to live out my dream, but He is sustaining me!  Last May, when I decided to take a year leave from teaching, I was terrified.  Beyond terrified, actually.  Worries upon worries consumed me, but I had to do what was in my heart while trusting that God would make a way.  And He has.  More than I could have imagined.  Yes, I've been extremely busy and may have shed a few tears at how overwhelmed I was feeling, but the blessings far outweigh the struggles.  After all, isn't it a promise that challenges help us develop endurance?  And endurance develops strength of character, which strengthens our hope.  (Romans 5:4)  I love that truth!  

These past couple months have definitely helped me develop endurance, which I am thankful for.  More than anything, though, I'm so thankful for all the wonderful people that I've met and had the opportunity not only to photograph, but develop friendships with.  Watching families and loved ones together and seeing the sweet connections and love they share helps me remember what is truly important in life.  Even in the midst of a busy schedule, worries, and feelings of inadequacy about getting everything done, I get to witness God's love and be reminded of what matters most...  Family, friends, loving and encouraging others, laughter, slowing down and being present.  Taking the time to truly cherish the "everyday" moments that we all too often take for granted.  

So, as I look back on these past couple months and reflect on the overwhelmed schedule, feelings of doubt and stress, and the few tears here and there, I'm left mainly seeing the blessings and lessons I've learned.  I am learning.. I'll never have it down just right, but I can always grow and evolve.  I love what I am doing, and I'm thankful for all those that are making it possible for me to live out my dream.  :)

I unfortunately haven't had time to do my usual blog for each of my sessions, so I thought I'd share some of my favorite moments over the past couple months..  I truly enjoyed working with each of these families and getting to witness the unique love they share with one another.  Enjoy!  

IMG_0452.jpg
 
 



 
 


 
 


 
 

IMG_8495.jpg