Trusting God's Plan...

Isn't it funny how certain things fall in your lap when you are least expecting it? This past weekend has left me with my mind racing and my heart full of excitement (and a little anxiety).

Let me explain...

When I first started playing around with photography my intentions were purely to do it for a hobby. I've loved it since I was a little girl...and since I am a full-time stay-at-home mom I just decided I needed something that was "mine" - a hobby of sorts. I decided it was the perfect time to start studying photography.

Over the course of the year I have taken numerous classes, read books, studied Internet sites, and been privileged enough to get one-on-one lessons with a fantastic photographer in our area.

Still, my desires were focused on learning all I could because I loved the hobby. I purchased a better camera, got a few lenses, and continued to practice.

Then friends started asking me to photograph their children. I would politely refuse explaining that I still had way too much to learn before I could do something of that sort.

More friends started asking.

I decided to photograph one good friends children so I could chalk up some more practice on subjects other than my own little beauties. I enjoyed photographing them, and somewhat hesitantly decided by the end of the night that I would be willing to do this for friends - people that I know and that would love me anyway if the images weren't exactly what they were looking for.

But then something kind of crazy happened.

After seeing the pictures, other people were interested in me photographing their children and families. People that I don't even know. People that have never met me.

I am putting it lightly when I say I was flattered....but also completely caught off guard. My mind raced with insecurities....was I ready?....do I know enough to do this?....what if they don't like the images I take?....the list was endless.

In the end (after a lot of thinking and praying) I decided that you miss 100% of the shots you don't take - and I may never have this opportunity again.

I decided to go for it.

So the weekend was busy for me as I set up professional printing services, came up with a name for my business (just saying the word "business' sounds crazy to me), called my photographer friend freaking out more than once, and ultimately booked my first photography session!

Although this weekend was a whirlwind I am taking it slow...very slow. I am not too proud to say that I have a lot I still need to learn....A LOT...but my heart tells me that beautiful things could be just above the horizon if I trust God's plan.