As exciting as it is to enter a new year, there is usually a little sadness in it for me as well. Aging is a hell of a thing and New Years almost felt like a second birthday this year. A lot of fun it was, but it also served as another reminder that the years are passing and I’m not getting any younger. In spite of feeling a little too self-aware, I can confidently look back on 2018 with a sense of accomplishment and a smile on my face.
I haven’t posted anything since the Ireland trip, but with all the family get-togethers and holiday goings-on, it seemed appropriate that I take a step back for a bit. Now that things have settled and the holiday fog of Jameson is starting to clear, my 2019 calendar is pulling itself together already. It’s only day nine of the new year and big things are happening.
I’ll start off with the most recent and most exciting news: Kaylee and I bought our house. Our loan closed yesterday, and today is the first official day of being homeowners. The house has been a huge point of focus for the last six months and I’ve battled my own nerves and fears of making such a commitment. I’ve never been one to take big decisions lightly and buying the house was no exception. In fact just yesterday I had a little bit of a meltdown—sorry Kaylee—that was probably caused by a little over-stimulation from finding out that the deal was done. Even though it feels like there are mountains to climb before we reach the peak of this house’s potential, I’m stoked beyond belief to officially call this place MY home.
Aside from the various things to be checked off the list for the house, I’ve got plenty else to keep me focused and busy. For this update, I’ll keep it short and sweet and talk a bit about the direction I want to take my photography. My goals and priorities always evolve year to year, and 2019 is no exception. To start, I will be integrating a Print Shop into the website to better facilitate getting everyone out there some good quality prints in an organized and timely fashion. Not every photo in my gallery will be available through the Shop, but there will be a good selection of prints in various sizes. If any of you are interested in a print that isn’t featured in the Print Shop, just contact me and let me know. I’m happy to work with you! Next on the list, I’m making it a goal to shoot every day. 2018 had weeks pass by where I didn’t shoot at all. Those weeks really got me down and not only did I feel like I wasn’t using my time wisely, I felt a real lack of fulfillment. I enjoy learning to hone my craft, but I love most the memories I make through the pursuit.
This brings me to the last goal I’ll share for 2019. I’m making it a focus to be more involved with my community through photography. As cool as being “insta-famous” might sound, I’ve come to realize that’s not what’s important. I want my photos to be seen in the local coffee shops and bars and homes of my friends, family, and community members. A photo in a feed online can be forgotten in seconds. A photo in someone’s home of a place they love or a cherished moment becomes an heirloom. This year is no longer about gaining followers, it’s about sharing photos and content with substance and passion.
Well, I suppose this is where I’ll bid goodnight (or good day) to whoever out there might be reading. Thank you for taking the time out of your life to read what I’ve got to say. I sincerely appreciate it. As therapeutic as writing is for me, I’m always honored to hear when someone is reading and wants to have a conversation afterward. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have the urge, I promise I’ll be happy to hear from you! It’s not just about me achieving my goals, it’s about being more involved with everyone else and giving back.
Here’s to 2019. I have a feeling it’s going to be a hell of a year.