Thankful // Personal

During a time of year when it's common to look back at the year behind us, I've spent so many hours on the computer, editing away, sending images of families to my mini session clients and bar / bat mitzvah clients. And I've been grinning from ear to ear. 

In the last two weeks, I have watched a handful of friends and family experience some pretty scary health issues. I've been praying, sending positive vibes virtually and attempting with all my might to push all negative thoughts aside. I've had a cold that has bubbled itself up from months of busy-ness and I haven't exercised in I don't know how long. Thanksgiving came and went and I cooked my first turkey dinner with Luis' mom by my side. It was blissful. But the next day, we received news of more friends with health concerns. 

In all the crazy of the world today, there is one thing I can count on: With my camera in hand, I can walk into a synagogue, a party filled with lights and music, my light-filled studio, a family's home or favorite spot and I FEEL LIKE I'M HOME.

I chat it up with the grandparents and I feel like I'm hugging my own, who live in 2 different states and feel so far away during the holidays.

I play on the floor with the toddlers and snuggle the babies and I feel 100% myself. I crack jokes about bodily functions with kids and teenagers and I feel like the most popular kid in school.

I adjust the Tallis and marvel at the big family groups on the Bima steps and I see generations of legacy and tradition before my eyes. 

I walk into these situations and I know exactly what to do. I know which lens and manual settings to use because I've been doing this for nine years and it feels like riding a bike. I just keep clicking. I chase the light and a few weeks later, I hand-deliver images I hope you'll treasure forever. 

This past year of full-time #bosslady status has taught me so much, more than I could put down in words here. Now more than ever, I've realized that working with all of you FUELS me in a way no workout or run ever could. When I count my blessings, I count all of you. Twice. 

When life feels heavy and weighted with every reason to get my anxiety brewing again, I'm endlessly grateful for all of you.

For the Cuban Shuffles, the Dabs and the Horas I've captured this year and swayed along to, I'm grateful.

For the baby smiles and coos and even the spit-ups, I'm grateful. 

For all the tickle fights, the fart jokes and the times I opened a "THESE ARE AMAZING!" email, I'm grateful. 

As the sun moves from sunset to sunrise and we all wake up tomorrow to December 1 - to the start to the holiday month of parties, cookies, lights, trees, menorahs, songs and carols - I want to say thank you. 

Thank you times infinity. 💛