Just Fall Baby..

Being born a July baby, I have always relished in the hot summer days.  Recently I have noticed the weather is changing and it seems fall is just around the corner. I don’t know about you but Labor Day Weekend seems full of summer fun and freedom, sort of one last warm-weather hoorah! Then, before you know it leaves are changing, sweaters are making appearances, and the sun starts setting just a bit earlier each day.

I always cling to the last few “summer-like” days, like a child clings to their raggedy old blanket. Normally, I’m actually quite grouchy about the change of season but this year will be different! I decided to focus on my favorite things about fall to stay positive about the changing season.

1.       Pumpkin EVERYthing! Starbucks is always eager to kick off the fall season with their signature Pumpkin Spiced Latte (I adore all types of coffee, so for me this one is a winner!). Next we start seeing pumpkin breads, cupcakes and even shampoo (no joke! Philosophy Pumpkin Spice Muffin Shampoo…it’s a real thing).

2.       I never get tired of seeing the leaves change (although raking them is a different story). I love that when I take a photograph of a fall tree, the sun shines through the leaves making a kaleidoscope of reds, oranges, yellows, and browns.

3.        Brisk mornings. The air hits me and instantly I’m energized. It’s perfect for early morning runs.

4.       The fall fashion. Hello comfy sweaters, tall boots and worn jeans. I am a casual kind of girl so I usually fit in and actually look fashionable during the fall season.

5.       Thanksgiving!!!! Not only do I get to stuff my face with an amazing home cooked meal, but I get to be surrounded by family! I have a huge family and some of my very best friends are my cousins. You can bet they never miss a Thanksgiving at Grandma and Grandpa’s house!

I am already feeling more positive about the transition into fall. I guess it is inevitable…fall into fall and enjoy witnessing Mother Nature’s mood ring.

One last thought for the evening…

Counting your blessings is a surefire way to put a smile on your face.

Life's Perfect Moments

They're happening all day, every day...glimpses of perfection.

The serene sparkle of the sun off of calm waters, the sweet "good morning" look your pooch gives you as he rests his head on the edge of the bed, or and edgy over-the-shoulder glance shot at you from a stranger. I see these moments and all I can think is "Dang! I wish I would have caught that with my camera!".

I am a self-taught photographer. What I know is what I have learned from articles, books, or good ol' fashioned trial and error. I will never claim to be a "professional photographer", I learn and grow in my skill and passion everyday.

Being behind the lens of a camera allows me to see the world differently. I can take a step back and enjoy this world the way God created it. I can bask in the imperfections as well as the glorious beauty of it all. It's not the money or glamor that attracts me to this industry, it's much more personal than that for me. I am most pleased with myself when I have one of those "Ah ha!" moments, where I've not only witnessed a moment of pure perfection, but I've actually managed to capture a photograph of it.

It's a chase, to preserve a perfect moment. It's what I do (or at least try to do) and it's what I LOVE.