I don’t blog much, as I’m not much of a writer, but, that being said, it’s currently being added as one more thing onto the ever-growing list of “ME” improvements for 2014 😉

Simply put: These two children are my HEART.

Everything good and pure that is in me… God wrapped it all up perfectly into these two beautiful little souls when He created them.  I don’t usually share many personal things on my blog, but I thought the moral of this story was worth sharing.  The last few years of my life have been quite a roller coaster.  These past few months however, have been nothing short of some of the most difficult months in my family’s life. Only those of you who are near and dear to me, know the specific details of my personal life and without going into too much detail … I will just say that it has been a miracle that I have even been able to function day to day, let alone keep my business in tact, and surprisingly doing quite well.  With Christmas approaching it seems to cause the feelings of sadness from any type of tragedy or loss to become greater…

Yet, here are these sweet, loving children STILL smiling every day and STILL teaching me over and over how to love more completely despite any hurdle that has come our way. Every time I look at these two already very strong little girls, they remind me that there is hope and happiness around the corner if you want it, all you have to do is embrace it each day.

At this time of year, hearing of people losing a loved one or having a family member become very ill is just heartbreaking.  As we celebrate Christmas this year, let’s take a moment away from the parties, baking, and all of that crazy, stressful, last minute shopping to remember these people that are hurting. Let’s do as many acts of random kindness as WE can because we never know what someone else is going through, and let’s take the time to appreciate the “gifts” that are right in front of us.  I know that despite anything I may be going through, I have the two greatest gifts I could ask for this Christmas, and I thank God (the reason for this holiday in the first place)  😉

The faces in the following pictures may seem just like any other kids to you, but to me they are my entire world. My purpose, my inspiration, and my motivation to want to be a better person.  I could go on… but you get the point 😉

Merry Christmas to you and yours!

A special thanks to Lorree Smith Photography for providing this amazing backdrop for me for my mini sessions this year…  So thankful to have such great friends that are there for me in so many ways!