Family:
2011 was supposed to be a year of family expansion – at least according to my “plan.” And it never happened. And it’s still not happening. And yes, there is a little bit of sadness. But really, I can’t dwell on that or I will go crazy! I could just as easily dwell on all the other things I don’t have, but I can’t see how that would glorify God in any way. He has given me so much! I gained two little “nephews” this fall – Heather’s twin boys are the sweetest little things. Luke reminds me of Micah when he was a newborn. Micah has grown into such a funny little boy, and sometimes a very mischievous one. He gives me more love and affection than I could ever ask or deserve. He is always full of hugs and kisses. I’m the one he wants to squeeze in the morning. He likes it when I play with his mop of curly hair. His giggle can lift the worst mood. That little man loves to be tickled and show his daddy his cool stunts. He loves to make sound effects, for pretty much every single thing. He loves to run around in nothing but a diaper. He loves his Grandmas and Grandpas! He dances when I sing. He loves to help me carry stuff in the store. He is just an awesome little kid and I am soooo glad he is mine to love and watch over.
Love:
2011 has been the year of the crush. The renewed crush on my husband! We celebrated 5 years of marriage in August, and I think making it through the baby stage of Micah’s life together made us stronger. Haha! I’m just kidding. I think all relationships go through seasons, and I have really enjoyed this one, especially lately.
Business:
Well 2011 was my first full year of business. I started at the end of 2010 but didn’t really get rolling until the following May. Now at the end of the year, I’ve been looking back and analyzing what I have done wrong and what I have done right. I have grown a lot – that is for certain. Owning my own business has really stretched my organizational muscles. Things were a bit stressful at first, at least until I invested in some great business tools like Photo Cart & ShootQ. Even these fall short in some areas, however, so I am taking yet another step by moving to in-person ordering and creating a more personal experience after the photo shoot. It will involve more work on my end, but I really believe in the process. I will be taking on fewer shoots and hopefully the extra work put towards each shoot will equal greater profit and things will all even out. If there is one thing I lacked this past fall, it was balance – and there were a few times when it seemed like the wheels were going to spin right off the wagon. Next fall, as tough as it might be, I am going to learn to say “no” so that I can say “yes” to what really matters. I got caught up in the ideal of being “busy,” but when I really reflect on things, I realize that being swamped is not what I want. I am fulfilled by creating art for families – and catering to them. I can’t do that in high volume. So I suppose in some ways I am moving towards more of a boutique experience.
And those are the things that come to mind at the moment…. 