Like most people at the close of 2017, I am compelled to reflect on all that this year has brought and the changes it has created. At the beginning of 2017, I was working at my stable 9-5 job, completely oblivious that everything I knew and had become comfortable with would transform in the coming year. I had no idea that I would decide to become a stay at home mom. No intentions of jumping into a photography business head first. Not. A. Clue. But I did, and I am not ashamed to say that I am proud that I took that jump, and of all that we experienced this year. Because I was finally able to spend an entire summer with my sweet Jay Bug. I was able to hold her hand when she walked into her very first day of school. I watched my son turn a whole year old. And not only did I start to get paid for doing what I love, but I photographed my first wedding, my firsts gender reveal, my first senior session, my first EVERYTHING.

You cannot have the good without the bad though, and as much as I wanted this year to only be filled with fairytale happiness, dancing chipmunks and singing birds, I had my share of heart ache and challenges. Multiple ER visits and a life flight to Colorado with our son forced me to reevaluate what matters most in this short life. Because starting a small business is NOT easy. Even if you are doing what you love, it is time consuming. It is stressful. And if you are not careful, it will consume you. I have had to fight to find balance in my life like never before. I had to work to become a mother first and photographer second. And while I am still working to find that balance, I am so thankful that this year I was able to realize how important that balance is, so that I can grow and change with that goal in mind.

Here’s to so many more firsts in 2018! To new goals and new challenges designed to make us grow and learn! Thank you to everyone following me on this journey, because we all know, I wouldn’t be here without you!!! CHEERS!!!!