JANUARY FAVES

Wow!  What a crazy month.  It's hard to think that it's already over.  New Year. Goals. Dreams. Experiences.  I can not wait to see what the rest of the year has in store when so much has happened in one month already!  Here's to the next eleven.  Below are a just a few of my favourite things from January.  Bring it on 2015!

1. Stylebook app.  No.80 on 101 in 1001 list was to organize my closet.  I've been trying to condense my wardrobe into about 50 key pieces.  Although I'm not quite there, this app has been a life-saver.  For under $5 this app catalogues all your clothes and from there you can put together outfits (from your own closet)  It even has a calendar so you can pick your outfits in advance so you spend less time going through piles of clothes with nothing to wear and more time doing things that actually matter.

2.  High ponytails.  They look good with anything - casual, classy, playful, lounging - and I've been rocking them almost everyday this month.  Wrap a 1/4 inch strand of hair around the elastic for a more put together look.

3. Purple lips.  More specifically, my Elizabeth Arden Beautiful Color Moisturizing Lipstick in Ultra Violet and Covergirl Colorlicious Lipstick in Divine Wine.  One more dark and vamp-y, the other bright and fun.  A girl can never have too much lipstick, at least that's what I keep telling myself.

4. Taylor Swift and her new album, 1989.  That's right, I caved, and I love her.  My niece got it for her birthday and I "Put it on my computer so she can put them on her tablet if she feels like it."  Yes, I went there.  Not only are her songs catchy, but she has a big heart, killer style.  Plus we were born in the same year.  How can I not like her?!

5. House, M.D.  I needed a new show to take my mind off zombies while The Walking Dead is on their mid-season break (it starts back up on my birthday, y'all!!) and this show cured that zombie void in my soul.  And yes, this is my first time watching this show.  And no, I don't know why I didn't watch it sooner.  It's funny, sad and gave me a new vocabulary that pretty much makes  me a qualified doctor.  And Gregory House (Hugh Laurie) is the bomb dot com.  Need I say more?

6.  And since I have the willpower of a three year old, this is my new logo fresh from Aniya Jade Design Studio!  I couldn't be happier with it!  Originally, I was going to wait until my new website (coming soon!!), but I was just too excited.  so here it is in all it's beautiful-ness!

Happy Friday!

GOODREADS: THE BOOK OF NEGROES

Is there anything better than reading?  No, really.  I don't think there is a better way to clear your mind and relax - besides sleep, I like me a good nap - than a nice big book and a hot cup of tea.  Ever since childhood, reading was an escape; a place where my life was invisible and an environment where a protagonist was everything I wished I could be. Still to this day, I curl up with a good book and it calms the crazy aspects of my life.  I haven't been reading as much books lately as I would like (hence the crazy life), but when I find the time, it's like biting into a freshly ripe, warm summer peach (can you tell I'm missing summer?) and everything is OK again.

Because books are so rad, here's a list of some recent books I've read, fell in love with and rocked my world.

The Book of  Negroes by Lawrence Hill: I loved this book from the very beginning to the very last word.  It begins at the dawn of the nineteenth century when Aminata Diallo - now an old woman - sits down to write her life story at the request of the Abolitionists in London.  Abducted from her village in West Africa at the age of eleven to live as a slave in South Carolina, Aminata manages to survive using her wits, skills as a midwife, ability to pick up new skills quickly, and her strength of character.  

The Shoemaker's Wife by Adriana Trigaiani:  I have to admit, I went through phases of loving this book and being more than annoyed with it, but love triumphed- much like anything else.  It's loosely based on Trigiani's grandparents' love story and immigration from Italy and I enjoyed the pleasant read.

Hollow City by Ransom Riggs: I can't help but enjoy reading this series (Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children being the first in the series)  The pictures throughout the book are authentic, vintage  found photographs.  They were lent from the personal archives of collectors, and add a level of beauty and obscurity to the book.  How Riggs finds these photographs and the way he integrates them into his stories, I just find it utterly fascinating. The story itself is great as well, and I wouldn't expect anything less. Fun and entertaining.

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak:  Truly a book-lover's book.  Told from Death's point of view - very clever! it tells the story of Liesel, a German foster girl, and her life during World War II.  I loved this book from beginning to end!  Every word was so perfect I felt like I was walking through this dark fairytale of a story. Just brilliant!

I Am Pusheen the Cat by Claire Belton: with my love for cats, along with my even bigger love for Pusheen, it should come with no surprise that I absolutely loved this book.  Much like an actual cat, this book manages to be funny, weird, and lovably adorable all at the same time.  If you love cats as much as I do, heck! even if you don't like cats, you will love Pusheen and the book.  I promise.

Happy Wednesday!

UNFOLD

About a week ago, I stumbled upon a photographer's (one that I love and have been following since practically the beginning of her career) blog.  Her first blog.  The one she had before all her successes.  I didn't get much sleep that night.  I stayed up until two in the morning reading Every. Single. Post.  I laughed, I cried, and I cheered her on.  It was like I was brought back in time and re-lived all those experience with her.  Partially because I realized I am going through those exact emotions and experiences she was five years ago, right now.

Sometimes I feel like giving up.  That I'm not good enough.  That I just can't do it.  But then I stumble upon things like this and realize that it just takes time.  Everyone has to start somewhere, and just because they don't show it, doesn't mean it never happened.  I'm writing this for myself to remind the Julie of right now that everyone starts somewhere.  Just because I'm nowhere near where I would like to be right now, doesnt' mean that I will be in the same place five years from now.  This is a journey.  And as long as I keep pushing myself and trying harder each and everyday, the story of my life will slowly unfold and before I know it all my dreams will have come true.  Never give up on a dream just because of the time it will take to accomplish it. The time will pass anyway.

Stay Strong.

GRATITUDE JOURNAL: LEARNING TO FLY

A couple of weeks ago I started a gratitude journal.  Every night, before I go to bed, I jot down five things that I am grateful for.  These don't have to be big, extravagant things (although they can) but simple stuff will do just fine, as long as you are truly grateful to have these things in your life (such as: my cat, clean water, fresh flowers, lipstick, etc... )  Along with my gratitude journal, I've been starting my day off with positive affirmations.  The me of even a month ago would have read this and been like, riiiight, like that'll work.  And now that I've changed my perspective, and have seen and noticed drastic changes within my life life, I'm all that girl is sooo last season.

Speaking of awesome things happening, I just finished up with a business meeting this morning and I will have some very, VERY exciting news to share with you all within the next couple of months.  Until then, it will be a little secret.  It will be worth the wait, I promise!  This blurry picture I took of myself shows my excitement of the news to a T.

I've come to realize that these simple acts of kindness, towards yourself, is something everyone should try.  I'm more happy.  Positive.  And have faith that everything is going to be okay-not matter what happens.  Because, duh, I'm so worth it!  and so are you!

So what are you waiting for, start a gratitude journal tonight!  you'll be amazed with what this world has to offer you.  Instead of having fear that you will fail, have faith that you can fly - because, darling, the view from up here is so much nicer.

Happy Monday!

JUST DO IT

I woke up with the worst headache.  My hair was a mess.  And I had little time to get ready.  A photographer friend had decided to meet up with me on short notice, so I got ready as fast as I could, and out the door I was.  After coming home, I looked in the mirror and was surprised she even sat with me!  My hair was an even BIGGER mess than I thought, my clothes were far from matching, and I realized, I definitely can't get away that five minute make-up look everyone is raving about these days.  

I met Nycky-jay of BlueTree Photography about a week ago, and as nervous as I was, she made me feel completely comfortable- like we'd been friends forever (even though I looked like a mess and shouldn't have even stepped foot outside the door!)  We talked about all sorts of things from our love of coffee and cozy sweaters to the more technical/business side of things with tips and loving advice.  I talked to her about my fears and tribulations of going into the business, and she told me something I'll never forget:

"I look back now and I think, why didn't I do that sooner.  If you know this is what you want, don't wait until you think the time is right.  Don't hesitate.  Just do it."

This hit me like a ton of bricks.  She was just as scared as I am right now, and look at all she has accomplished.  There were so many things I knew I had to do but I was cautious in taking that leap.  I was hesitating.  I was lacking faith within myself, and she took that half step for me and restored the faith within myself I thought was long gone.  With that, I came home with a completely new mind-set.  I sent out all the emails I was too afraid to send out.  I started the process of building my own website (!!!).  I started creating friendships with the fellow photogs in my area.  I signed up for The School Sessions, which if you haven't checked out by now, I'm telling you now- DO IT.

I've noticed that in the short time I have changed my attitude and outlook on the situation, more good things have been coming my way.  New opportunities.  New experiences.  Building that path that leads to your own success.  Don't hesitate.  Just remember to look at yourself in the mirror before you walk out the door!

Happy Monday! xo

ALL YOU NEED IS A DREAM

I've been reflecting a lot lately.  About my life, my dreams and where I want to be and what I need to do to get there.  The thing is, starting something new is scary.  There is the fear of the unknown, questioning if we are good enough, and not even knowing where to start.  

This past year I have made some big changes in my life and it's got me looking at my life in a whole new way.  I think it all hit me on my last birthday.  I became a women of five and twenty (sometimes I talk like Jane Austen because it makes me feel classier than I actually am ;)   I remember not being able to breathe as I clutched the calendar in my fists.  I was a quarter of a century and wasn't anywhere near where I thought I would be at 25! 

A few months ago now, I went for a walk with my friend, Alana.  It began with us just wanting to get out for some fresh air and enjoy the sun on such a glorious fall day.  But let me tell you something, that fresh air, it really gets to ya.  Our conversation quickly went from the simple what I did last weekend and silly stories about our cats (we're both crazy cat mothers) to a very deep conversation about our lives, our passions and our dreams.  It got me thinking about life in a completely new way.  I seen open doors which were once glued shut.  

I'm still trying to work my way through these issues.  Everyday is a constant battle with myself trying to quiet the voices of self doubt screaming in my mind.  As I'm trying to put this puzzle together, I've realized the only thing required of me is to simply show up.  Everyday.  Do the small things that put me closer to where I want to be and have faith that it will work out (because it always does) along with the hard work that makes dreams come to reality.

One day I hope to look back at this blog post as proof that anything is possible.  All you need is a dream and the passion it takes to get you there.

LIVING IN THE MOMENT

Life gets busy, I get it.  We keep pushing things aside, saying I'll get to it later...  Not now I'm busy... Maybe next time...and before we know it, we've left out the things that really matter.  Our friendships.  It's important to not just take time, but make time for our family and friends.  Live in the moment.  It not only lifts your spirits, but it makes you more productive (me any ways) 'cause  be there will be one less thing nagging you in the back of your mind.

My friend came home from university over the holidays.  Amidst all the business spent with family over the past two weeks, we managed to find time for dinner.  It was so nice to just take a break from it all and just be.  Our dinner turned into a four hour conversation.  As people came and went, we sat in our booth telling stories of our life, catching up with one another.  Most of that time was spent laughing - I'm sure the whole restaurant was annoyed with us (If you didn't know this already, my laugh is the most loud and obnoxious in all the land)

Before dinner, we managed to sneak in some time for pictures.  Obvs.  As you can see she has the most genuine spirit, and she is always smiling. 

Ashley, I wish you all the best with the new year.  With school, your family and friends.  May 2015 be filled with health and happiness as you continue to follow your dreams. xo

WHY I BECAME A VEGETARIAN

I glanced over towards my friend who was eating a box of Lucky Charms, Why aren't you eating the marshmallows?  It's the best part.  He cocked his head and looked at me like I should have known the answer all along, Because I'm a vegetarian, he replied, and went on eating the not so yummy bits of dry cereal.  But there's no meat in marshmallows, I retorted with a sly gin across my face, so what's the deal.  Again, I got that same look as he told me about how they're made with gelatin, and it's practically the same thing.  And that was the end of that.  Fast forward six months to the present and I have been a full-fledged vegetarian for five months now, and I see no looking back.  

I came home from my friends house, curious about his lifestyle.  I have never been a big fan of meat, I just ate it because I thought I had to; it's how I was raised -  and truth is, you don't.  While reading blogs and watching YouTube videos, I came across Freelee the Banana Girl - if you've never heard of her, I highly suggest you look her up if this lifestyle is something you're interested in, or have been thinking about.  Now, I'm not going to stuff all the details  down your throat (not really what I'm into), but her videos opened my eyes to information I wasn't even aware of.  Long story short, if you do eat meat, be more cautious of where it comes from.  If you're an animal lover, like myself, it might do you some good to take a look into it.

Since switching to the vegetarian lifestyle, the most common question I get asked is, How do you get your protein, that can't be healthy.  And I will assure you that yes, I do get enough protein and yes, it is healthy.  And I'm saving my little animal friends in the process :)  

And since each post is better with a picture, here's Chachi guarding my books for me.  Look at how fierce she is.

Animals are our friends,
Happy Tuesday

RINGING IN THE NEW YEAR IN STYLE

I looked at my calendar this morning and almost had a mini heart attack!  Can you believe we're already almost a week into the new year?!  These past few weeks have gone by in a complete blur.  Time to get back to work :)

I spent NYE babysitting my grandsiblings while their parents were all at work.  It's amazing to see how excited they get during the holidays.  Each year is a new and exciting experience as they get older, and I love seeing how much they change as each year goes by.  I wanted to have fun with them, so we found some noise makers, party hats, sparklers, and glitter (of course!) and we decided to start our party early.  We walked around blowing our horns and shouting Happy New Year!  

By the end of the night, only Maisie, Chachi and I were the last ones standing!  I can't tell you how much I just wanted to cuddle under the blankets and go to bed early, but Maisie was insistent on staying up till twelve and ringing in the new year with style.  We had sparklers, that's fancy, riight?

Happy Monday!

SETTING GOALS AND THE START OF 2015

It's the second day into the New Year and we're experiencing our first snowfall this winter.  Not impresssed.  I'm not sure about you all, but it seems cold weather is the bane of my existance.  Bring me somewhere warm and you have a happy Jubes*.

* They call me Jubes, like the candy.  It's been my nickname since I was eight.  Cute, riiight?

With the begining of the New Year, I found myself reflecting on this past year-the good and the bad.  What worked and what didn't.  What can I change this year to make 2015 exceptionally superior to the last.  It's the dreaded New Years Resolution, and yes, we all do it.  I was a little hesitant to post this here on my blog, but I need  to be held accountable in some way, shape or form, so I thought I'd share mine with you in hopes that you do the same and strive to make 2015 the best it can possibly be.  You are never to old to set another goal or dream a new dream.  Here it goes.

So I decided to separate my goals into two separate catergories: business and personal.  These are the main things I wanted to focus on this year, and it just makes it easier for my brain to think when I separate them into categories.  Alright, let's get down to it!

Business:
*Read at least five business books
*365 Photo Challenge
*Second shoot 5 weddings
*Shoot first wedding on my own as first photographer
*Attend a photography workshop
*Launch new website and blog

There are a couple other things, but they're boring sauce, so I will leave you with those six for now.  On to the second half...

Personal:
*Read more (my reading this past year was slacking to say the least)
*Develop a daily routine that works
*Learn to accept failure and be ok with it
*Stop comparing myself to others
*Take up yoga again
*Buy less, choose well

So there you have it.  My goals for 2015, and I am challenging YOU to do the same.  What is it you want to do this year?  Who do you want to be?  Where do you want to go?  Love what you see in the mirror.  Make time for creativity.  Never say no to adventure.  Eat more green food.  Send snail mail.  Send handwritten thank-yous.  Give out too many comliments.  Travel.  Be kind to strangers.  Take a cooking class.  Learn from others.  Know what you want - clarity is power - and know that vague goals promote vague results.  Strive for progress, not perfection;  you're worth it.

Happy 2015, and a cheers to a happier YOU.