07/03/2026
I've sat down to write this post more times than I can count.
For the past several months, I've been away from my business because I was spending that time with my mom. She passed away recently, and while my heart is still very much in the middle of grieving, it feels like the right time to slowly begin finding my way back to work.
But here’s the scary, unedited truth.
One thing I wasn't prepared for was how hard it would be to go from constantly building my business to not working at all. One day, my calendar was full, my camera was always packed, and I was thinking months ahead. The next, none of it mattered. My only job was to be with my mom.
As a small business owner, that kind of stop is scary. You spend years pouring yourself into something, and then suddenly you're forced to step away and wonder what will be waiting when you're able to return. There were moments I worried I'd lose everything I'd worked so hard to build.
But if I had to choose again, I would choose every extra day with my mom.
She was one of my biggest supporters. She was proud of what I built, proud of the people I've met, and proud that I found work that I genuinely love. I know she would be the first person telling me it's okay to pick up my camera again—even if I’m not ready for everything that comes with it.
So here I am, taking a small step forward.
I'm answering emails, opening my calendar a little at a time, and slowly picking up my camera again. Those specifics are coming soon.
But first, I want to say thank you.
Thank you to those of you who have quietly walked this road with me—whether you sent a message, waited patiently, prayed for my family, or simply stayed here while I was away—thank you.
You reminded me that this business has always been about people first, and I will never take that for granted.
- - -
So here I go, Mom.
I'm going to pick up my camera again. I'll probably cry on the drive to sessions. I'll probably think about calling you afterward before I remember I can't. But I'm going to try anyway.
One session, one client, one photograph at a time. I know you'll be with me in all the places I wish you still could be.
I love you. ❤️🩹
