Hello, all!  Thank you for the continued support.  I haven't blogged for well over a year, and I feel like it's time.  I'm hoping life has treated all of you well!

As for me, things have been tough.  Many of you know that over the past year I have faced many challenges.  None more paramount, however, than the passing of my father.  There is so much I could share on this subject, but instead I will simply say that my closest confidant and best friend left me unexpectedly and suddenly, and I had to handle all of his affairs while mourning and in a state of disbelief.  It still shakes me to the core, but I am trying to move on as he would want me to. 

As a photographer, I am blessed.  I know I am not as skilled or as educated as many others, but I am very thankful to be where I am on the journey.  I am still a welcome member of a wonderful family where I work.  This company has been so supportive of me; before my father's passing, I always felt I was surrounded by contemporaries, mentors, and friends at my workplace.  Always there to answer questions, and to lend equipment, and give advice without egos.  When I had to leave for 3 months to handle dad's death and affairs, they all put themselves out there for me.  Financially, emotionally, and in every way you might expect an old friend to.  They were there.  

While in Texas, I was fortunate enough to build some much needed bonds with my family.  Under the worst circumstances, I came to understand that I am loved, and that I have even more people who care about me.  I have family.  I have people that I haven't taken the time to cultivate relationships with because I didn't understand that family will always love me, no matter what.  I am sorry I didn't know or trust that, and am now working hard to maintain what I've discovered from very far away.

Since I've been back, I've had some great momentum career-wise.  I've had 2 jobs for Girl Scouts of Wisconsin South East; I've had a couple of weddings;  I've assisted on a wedding;  I've photographed a Drum Corps International event;  I've been fortunate to photograph many events.  But here's the thing...

As a professional, I sometimes go a long time shooting many events without being able to share what I've done, how I've grown, etc.  I realized I was doing good work, but have not been able to share the results with the public.  

To that end, check out my galleries featuring Drum Corps International Cedarburg Rotary Event, Baby Adeline: a Miller/Madsen Production, and March Fourth at Summer Sounds.  I'm trying to renew my passion for the art, while humbly submitting that I have much to learn.  

Thanks, friends for the support, and I am so thankful to be where I am.  Make some art today!  Peace and love.