Grateful.

7/27/14

This year has been the craziest roller coaster of my life. I left everything I've ever known and everyone I've ever loved to go chase dreams across the country. Nothing is perfect, and everything is uncertain. It's expensive, and while exciting, very much a struggle. And I am so grateful that I even have the opportunity to struggle. I am endlessly thankful that I have had the courage to pursue happiness, even when it isn't easy. I am thankful for the supportive people cheering me on and rooting for me to succeed, and the ones who believe in me so wholeheartedly even when I doubt it myself. I am also grateful for the bullies in my life, for the people who put me down and made me feel like I was never good enough—I have them to thank for my incredible sense of resilience and my determination to prove them wrong and fight to be extraordinary. I am grateful for my new home, the incredible people I've met, and the warm, open arms they have welcomed me into their city with. I am grateful for my family and for the people who love me here, who have made an effort to keep in touch and stay in my life—it means more than I can ever say. I am grateful for my baby and my best friend, Sparky.  He keeps me warm and sane on those lonely nights. He is my little piece of home. I am grateful for every like and comment on my photos or status, every encouraging message, every person that tells me they love my work, and especially to my clients and those who choose me out of all the talented photographers out there. It is humbling and inspires me to keep going and not give up. I am thankful for my health at a time when others are fighting to stay alive. I've seen a lot of people I love pass in the last couple of years and it makes you appreciate just being alive so much more. Life is not perfect but it is precious and beautiful and there is so much potential ahead of me. I can't wait to see what the future brings. 

There is youth in my spirit, beauty in my world, peace in my mind, love in my heart, talent in my fingers, passion in my veins, friends in my home, and food on my table. I am happy. 

Happy Thanksgiving lovers, may your life be filled with all the joy and gratitude that your hearts can hold. 😘❤️