Happy New Year friends! Whether you stayed in and snuggled up with the love(s) of your life watching Disney movies or binging on Supernatural (like my husband and I - after the kids went to bed of course) or partied the night away with your favorite people, I hope you ended your year reflecting on your wins and learning experiences of 2019 and celebrated the New Year with new ambitions and a fresh, positive mindset.

I honestly can’t believe how much happened last year. There were many highs and a fair share of lows. I celebrated my oldest sons 2nd birthday and gave birth to my 2nd son and last child shortly after (both January boys just like their Dad - it’s a CRAZY month!). Though it was a terrifying birth experience and I was hospitalized for 5 days just 4 days after having my son I have to say I was truly blessed with a good man. He is the most incredible husband and father a girl could wish for. Leaving my newborn and not seeing my oldest son for several days was honestly the worst part of it all but I knew my husband had it all under control. Props to his for doing it alone! As my rocky start in the new year continued I was not sure I would be able to maintain my photography business with 2 kids so young. The idea of giving up my passion was heartbreaking but again my amazing husbands support and encouragement pushed me through and here I am, still shooting! It was nice to slow down for a short time and simply watch my kids grow.Here we are back in January and my boys are turning 3 and 1! (crying emoji) Where has the time gone?!

Not all of 2019 was about having babies though. This was the year I felt my business really took off and I found my specialty. I LOVE family photography. I have met so many wonderful families that I am thankful to now call friends. I can say without any doubt that I love what I do. I have FUN. When you have a job that you love and enjoy it’s as if you don’t have a job at all.

So as I reflect on last year I can say that what I’ve come to realize is growth does not come without failure or struggle. It doesn’t come without questioning. Feeling defeated or stretched thin at times is apart of life. My favorite quote this year and probably for several years is “You’ve had a bad day, not a bad life.” Parenting is hard but most times the most rewarding path isn’t the easiest. I had postpartum depression and seaked help even when I was embarrassed too. I was hard on myself for not being able to parent to the best of my abilities and run my dream business. But I have found the “perfect” balance with time. Being vulnerable and honest, asking for help is an important part of becoming who YOU want to be. Not trying to throw around too many quotes but they have really helped me see the light in situations I only saw darkness. Here is my second favorite quote: “Popcorn is prepared in the same pot, under the same heat, in the same oil, but they don't pop at the same time. Don't compare yourself, your relationship or your children to others, your turn to pop is coming!” I do not know who the quote is by but they are genius.

This year I have a running list of resolutions that I plan on taking as an opportunity to help me continue to grow:

Stop comparing.. body image, life, family, kids, photography .. you name it. Our journeys are all unique.
Learn to be in the present moment and intentional with how I spend my time. My kids are growing too fast and I don’t want to miss any of it. Even my marriage is flying by! My focus is my family.
Invest in relationships. Make friends.
Adventure. I’m not talking about travel but getting out of the house and taking my kids new places that are outdoors.
Continue learning everything I can to grow my business and give families a beautiful, memorable experience.
self love. I want to make time for me. Pay attention to my health, what I eat, workout and be the best version of myself for me and my family.

What are some areas that you hope to grow in this year?

XOXO,

Here are some beautiful pictures of my family taken by PAIGE BARTOS PHOTOGRAPHY. Shes great! I will cherish them forever as they capture my families bond beautifully.

HAPPY 2020 EVERYONE !

STAY CONNECTED