I spent most of 2017 growing a human, which consumed me entirely and was the single most challenging thing I have ever done. Pregnancy took an enormous physical toll, at first reducing me to a useless lump on the sofa, then I became a slave to my voracious appetite, followed by crippling back pain and general discomfort. It was the hottest summer in recent memory, and swimming was my only solace. I am so grateful I was able to swim throughout my second and third trimesters, which not only helped with the psychological impact of impending motherhood, but also helped contribute to a smooth labor and fast recovery.
Grappling with the unknown―not knowing who she was or how labor would go, or what life would be like with our newborn―rivaled the physical challenges of pregnancy. And then I lucked out with a dream birth at home, and a healthy baby girl who turned out to be more spectacular than I ever imagined. I have wanted her my entire life and now she's here. What an incredible gift! She was worth the agonizing wait one thousand times over and it is an honor being her mama.
I did not get nearly enough work up on the blog this year―I didn't even share a single wedding!―and that's okay. I trust that the right people are going to find me, because they continue to. My professional goal for 2018 is to share the work that upholds my artistic integrity and to not worry about the rest.
I feel like I can't ask for anything more than I already have. A husband I adore, a home I love, a perfectly healthy and vivacious baby girl, and a business that fulfills me. Thank you for being here. Thank you for your well-wishes and support. Thank you for hiring me to capture the love in your life and for recommending me to your friends. It means the world to me. May the coming year bring you health, joy, and adventure. I look forward to the journey.