Jenn and Damon ....

Better late than never ..... here's Jenn and Damon, my last wedding of 2011! Beautiful event and I was thrilled to be part of their day. They have a beautiful love and I simply wish them the absolute best ....

sweet penelope pie ....

Year in review ...

It's mid January and I have been reminiscing a lot about the past year ... the changes in our lives (both personally and professionally), the opportunities, the growth.

It was one year ago that I was offered a space by a photographer friend at the studio I now call my own. I had given up my previous studio when my daughter was born. With her starting kindergarten in the fall of 2010, I was ready to jump back in (after a lot of time, thought and prayer). By January 2011, the space was offered to me and I was settled in by February. March brought me another opportunity I had considered and prayed about ... shooting for a clothing line. The opportunity was whole heartedly welcomed, and kept me busy throughout the year. I also had the opportunity to work for a local vintage furniture rental company. It was awesome to work for them and photograph the furniture, but it was even better to establish a relationship with someone who I have continued to work with throughout the year as well.

(the studio downtown ....)

The remainder of the year kept me busy with portraits and weddings. Each being unique and special in their own ways. I met so many interesting people (if only for a little while), spent time with seniors with so many plans for the future, made many new friendships, as well as continued to work for my existing clientele.

Other changes in our year ... Dan (my husband) graduated with his Masters degree in June and landed a job doing marketing for a local company, which is a perfect fit for him. My son, Quinten, finished elementary school and has started his journey into middle school. He has done well adjusting and really enjoys school. I'm still figuring out being a mom to a middle schooler :) And my daughter, Penelope, started the first grade, which she is still adjusting to. Big changes for our entire family, yet the timing of each has been fitting and complimentary to one another.

And finally, we adopted Tucker, a Beagle puppy. He has brought many smiles and has taught each of us patience. A year has mellowed him out and he fits right in to our crazy little life style.

(Tucker .... had to share his sweet little face)

It's amazing how some doors open while others are closed. Sometimes in the midst of things we don't understand (at least I know I don't), but looking back I am so very grateful.

2011 was unlike any other year ... it had many changes, experiences and even some challenges.

I look forward to 2012 and what it will bring .... new ventures, continued growth. Because it truly doesn't matter how old I get, I simply want to continue to learn, grow, challenge, and let my photography evolve. I want to inspire and be inspired .....