“I’ve learned that no matter what happens, or how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow. I’ve learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he/she handles these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights. I’ve learned that regardless of your relationship with your parents, you’ll miss them when they’re gone from your life. I’ve learned that making a “living” is not the same thing as making a “life.” I’ve learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance. I’ve learned that you shouldn’t go through life with a catcher’s mitt on both hands; you need to be able to throw something back. I’ve learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision. I’ve learned that even when I have pains, I don’t have to be one. I’ve learned that every day you should reach out and touch someone. People love a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back. I’ve learned that I still have a lot to learn. I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
— Maya Angelou

Photography. I have had nothing but gracious words, compliments, and support from clients, friends, and loved ones about my photography work this year. I couldn’t be more grateful. But, if anyone knows me, will know I can be overambitious and find myself being really hard on myself. There are days where I feel maybe it isn’t enough. That I need to do more, be more, and for that I want to shape my work more creatively and to define it better. What that means? I’m not sure. But, I do know I’ll be making more time to tap into my creative noodle. I can be  my worst critic. But, I feel there is more, more I can do. You will see in the following year.

and with that,

Relationships. Good ones & bad ones. Defining what I need and value in my life. I have learned this year how important it is to keep those special close to you. Deepening those relationships that I do come to realize are close to me and should cherish. Recognizing the ones that are worth holding on to and ones that have outgrown. Learning to not tolerate those that prove to have no value to me and learning to let them go. Learning to Let go, let go, let go.  I’d be lying if some relationships this year didn’t bring some tears to my heart. Although not all was disheartening, as I have also experienced tears of joy, laughter, and incredible love.

Time. Now a year on my own with Dear Darling, I realized that my work life balance was a roller coaster. Working Full Time at my regular job, working what felt like a full time for photography, and finding time to enlighten my personal life. No complaints, as the flow of business, people I have met, and experiences is more then I can ask for. But, I have to admit there were some times I felt myself burnt. Physically and mentally.  I realized I was pulled in so many directions and losing my focus for my love in both areas of life. I lost time to embrace and discover creativity and hope to spend more time doing this; creating beauty for myself and others. Dear Darling has bloomed graciously. However, I’ve decided for 2014 to balance my lifestyle better and will be taking on a limited amount of clients.

Thankful. Thank you, thank you, thank you ! to everyone who has been part of DDP’s wonderful year. Wonderful and amazing clients, whom some have become good friends. Meeting and discovering fellow photographers. Friends who have given supportive words and wisdom. Looking forward to the new year and seeing the incredible things to happen! Stay safe and warm this season.