A few years ago I decided to get my first tattoo – “Life is beautiful.” I was feeling young and adventurous and wanted to remind myself to look around this little life that I had built and appreciate it. It worked … for a while. Then I got a full time job, moved into my first house, and was trying to find time to breathe let alone go to the gym. Adulting is hard right?! It wasn’t until recently when I picked up my camera that I started to appreciate the beauty that this world has to offer as well as to look at the people that I love in my life and realize that they will not be here forever. So, for my first official blog post ever, here are some photos that made me stop, look, and appreciate for the first time in ages.

A little self portrait that wasn’t all that easy to get. I made Jon trek through the cold and mud (it was February) to get this shot. I hope this picture constantly reminds me that you should do crazy things for the ones you love. And I hope more than anything we are this in love 50 years from now.

How pretty are these flowers? Seriously, stop and smell the roses might be totally cliche – do it anyways.

My family is absolutely amazing. Whenever we get together for holidays it usually looks like this. My dad has the best smile and my aunt always makes us laugh.

Jon and I try to travel somewhere each year instead of giving gifts! This 200 year old tree is named “Angel Oak Tree” and is located in South Carolina. Talk about feeling small…

This photo was from my first ever photo shoot. Holy moly, I never realized how small babies are. It was such a meaningful experience to see this little one’s parents in such awe of the miracle they created. Thank you!

Speaking of little things…