family pictures & some end of the year thoughts

I’ve been thinking about what I want to say in this last post of the year.  Feels like it should be really profound, right?  Some words of wisdom to usher in the new year 🙂

Honestly, I always feel kind of bittersweet at the end of the year, looking back, looking ahead.  I do have a couple things I want to do better at in 2015 (like being more intentional with relationships, growing as a photographer, eating and exercising better, you know).  But I think, for me, I need simplicity.  How do I make sure to succeed next year?  What does that even look like?

Something I feel like the Lord is trying to teach me, is that it’s really just about walking with Him.  I’ve been thinking about those three words lately.  Here’s where I’m at –

Walking.  Seems so simple right?  One foot in front of the other?  But I think there’s more.  Walking means movement.  It’s progress; it’s continuous.  It’s not rushed, but it’s not stagnant.

With.  What does it mean to really be with someone?  Fellowship.  Relationship.  Experiences.  It means I don’t fall behind, don’t get ahead.  I want to keep in step and enjoy the company!

Jesus.  I desperately need Him.  I want to need Him more.  I am grateful for 2014; the Lord took me deeper in my relationship with Him than I’ve ever gone.  It’s funny that the things that push us into communion with God are often difficult, things that, from the outside, we would not choose for ourselves.  But somehow, I can only be thankful.  I wouldn’t trade it.  I want more in 2015.  I want what I don’t even know about.  All I know is that I want everything Jesus has for us!

So those are my wise words for the upcoming year, and my only real, must do goal – walk with Jesus!  Really it’s an every single day goal!  And if it’s the only thing that I do better next year, I’ll feel pretty good 🙂

……….

A few weeks ago, a sweet friend of mine, who also happens to be an amazing photographer, took some pictures of our family (thanks Lisa!)  We actually traded sessions, which meant that I got to take a few of her beautiful crew too!

She did an amazing job, and I am so happy with how these images turned out!  Some of the ones below I took, some she took.  That’s the awesome thing about having a friend photograph your family.  Your kiddos are comfortable enough to be themselves, and the photog doesn’t mind if you whip out your own camera!

Anyways, I wanted to share them with you.  I thought it would be a nice way to finish off the year 🙂  Looking at these I realize, I have so very much to be thankful for!

Well everyone, happy new year!  I pray our days are marked with a ridiculous, reckless kind of love for Jesus and a faithfulness to keep in step with Him.  See you in 2015!