Happy New Year!

With 2011 upon us I’ve been doing a lot of thinking–thinking about how to improve my life in little ways. I’m trying to streamline and remove clutter. And by clutter, in mean a lot of different things–I hope to go through old magazines, check off my work to-do list faster, cancel unused credit cards, and most importantly, remove some of the emotional/life clutter that builds up in people.

Last year I took on a lot of different projects–from photography related projects to volunteer projects. I have decided to eliminate some of them and practice saying “no”. By doing less, everyone will get more–my clients, my friends and my family. I am aiming to be a better photographer, mom and all-around person. There. I am accountable for it–I said it out loud. Wish me luck! LOL!

One of the items on my list that I absolutely cannot eliminate, however, is my involvement with Girls on the Run. This is an absolutely amazing organization that helps young girls develop the skills necessary to have self-respect, make good choices and be confident and comfortable with who they are–just the way they are. The girls go through 10 weeks of preparations and lessons and end the session by running a 5K. Last fall I was involved with such a special group of girls, grades 3-5, who touched my heart. They poured forth raw emotion and excitement and it melted my heart to watch them become more confident little ladies. In some ways my involvement felt selfish as I gained as much joy from the running sessions as the girls did! I am really looking forward to the spring training. Here is a collage of the girls:

I wish you all luck with your 2011 goals, too!! Happy New Year!

Heart,

Jen