The other day I was talking to my favorite person (my grandma Jo) on the phone and we ended up talking about the career paths we chose. She was a nurse for most of her adult working years and I was an elementary school teacher for five years until I decided to resign and begin my photography business. She told me there have been times when she thought about doing something besides nursing, but looking back now she couldn't imagine doing anything else. She LOVED nursing! Then she asked me what I career I would have chosen if I could start all over again. As I thought, I honestly couldn't think of any other career choices I would have made.

I loved teaching, but I didn't love the confines of teaching. I loved that no two days were ever the same. I loved having to adapt and be flexible throughout the day as different situations arose. I loved the students and coworkers. But I did not love the schedule. I felt very confined. When I decided to resign I immediately felt a huge weight was lifted off my shoulders and I could now breathe freely.

I absolutely LOVE being a photographer! I love nearly everything about it - besides paying taxes. I love making my own schedule. I love creating wall art for families that will be treasured for years to come. I love it when clients tell me that my work captures so many emotions. But most of all I love meeting new people and connecting with them! I love to capture them year after year and create beautiful wall art that showcases their family! For this reason I have decided to begin a series which focuses on my loyal clients over the years titled, "Over the Years."

The Craven Family

Meet the Craven Family! I first met the Craven Family several years ago when I transferred two of my children to Hallsburg ISD. My son was in fifth grade with their son. Those two became friends and through that friendship our families became friends. We have LOTS in common since we both have large families! From the very first year of being in business, the Craven Family has been photographed by me. They have participated in several of our mini sessions as well as family sessions. Each session is full of laughs and no matter how long we go without seeing each other, the conversation will always pick up right where it left off. They have been there several times when I needed help and I am blessed to call them my friends. Through the years our kids have grown and although that makes me a little sad, I look forward to their future.

2014 - Halloween Mini Session (We STILL laugh about this photo!)

TWELVE sessions, y’all! The Craven Family has supported me from the very beginning and for that I am very grateful. Friends such as the Craven’s are a rare gift and I am blessed that I can honestly call them “my friends.”

“Always take note of who supports you genuinely. Those are the people you should always keep around.”

— unknown

THIS IS THE FIFTH FEATURED FAMILY IN THE "OVER THE YEARS" SERIES. CHECK OUT OUR OTHER FEATURED FAMILIES!