Where do I even begin? As I blogged on Wednesday, yesterday I was in Silver Spring near DC all day mingling and learning from some of the amazing people that make up the photography industry. I was so incredibly intimidated, but also over the moon, absolutely freaking out that I would have this opportunity! I tried to prepare my mind for all of the awesomeness and truth that Justin and Mary were about to bestow onto the crowd, but alas, there was no way I could’ve ever prepared enough. After I got over being in the room with so many people who inspired me (who are we kidding, i never got over it), I was able to soak in the moment…everyone sitting around me had the same overall goal…to make their dreams come true. Suddenly the room didn’t feel all that intimidating. It felt real, emotional, and authentic. When Mary spoke about why this industry was so important, why we should be passionate about leaving a mark on this world it truly made sense. My crazy dream finally started to take shape in my head and I quickly realized that I will always REGRET it if I don’t give photography a try!

As Mary said, I don’t want to ever have a moment in my life where I mourn my life while I’m still in the middle of it. Mary challenged me to stop thinking of our dreams as opportunities, but as obligations. She made it clear that our life was too short to be squandered and that we need to be ALL the way in it. And she’s right. This goes beyond just the photography industry. Our time here in this world is short. The biggest lie we tell ourselves is that time is abundant, free-flowing, and always accessible. This was so incredibly challenging to hear (because my view of time is totally messed up), but also refreshing to know that 2013 is still a clean slate. (and thankfully, my Savior always offers a clean slate) I can make this year the year that I choose to start believing again, to stop being scared of my dreams.

It’s time to get my hands dirty.

Justin’s lighting intensive was PHENOMENAL! This is him shooting portraits with live capture.

Abby Grace…I am so freaking thankful for you! Thank you for making yesterday possible!

Meanwhile…back in Radford. I miss the biggest blizzard ever! Can’t wait to go back home tomorrow and decompress all of this new information with my husband!