I found a link to a quote by Ira Glass on my friend (an amazing visionary) Ben Arment’s blog. So, I created  my own graphic version. And a wallpaper to share. (Enjoy)

For my fellow creatives: When I don’t feel good enough, clever enough, creative enough, unique enough…take heart. And, take heed. It takes years. I will remind myself daily, that it takes time. Lots more of it. Don’t quit. Don’t give up. I will find myself at the end of the tunnel. Let my disappointment in my work be the driver. Refuse to be satisfied by mediocrity or conformity. Just. Keep. Shooting. Keep working. Keep striving. Keep going. “Fight my way through.” One day, my work will be as good as my ambitions. So I will set my sights high. And soar.

Will you?

I love this visual cornucopia of “Things To Do” by the fabulous artist and author Jennie Maizels. We’re making our bucket list this week and getting organized while the hubby is away for a bit. What’s on your fun agenda this summer?

(photos courtesy of Jefra Linn)

Thought this was the perfect title to describe one of my best friends and fellow photographer Deb Schwedhelm. Not only has she gifted me with a friendship that is enduring, authentic and precious, she has shared her amazing talent with my family since the day we first met–when she photographed this disheveled new mama with a fussy, two-week-old newborn in arms. She was completely green then. I was her second “client.” Yet, her natural talent far exceeded her days behind a camera. From the moment I saw those precious photographs with tears streaming down my postpartum cheeks, I knew she possessed a rare and special gift. It was only the beginning.

She, beyond most any photographer I know, is gifted — gifted with a natural artistic eye and an innate ability to capture people in ways that are true. She never captures a likeness only, she digs deeper and reveals more–of the people she is photographing, and her own beautiful, generous soul. She is complex and unique. A star in her own sky, that shines brighter than most. Because of our relationship, I am blessed. Few friendships last long-distance — even fewer thrive. When we have chances to see each other, it is a rare and wonderful pleasure. It’s as if we have always been. Right. Where. We Are.

Her family is also part of the military, and recently moved to my hometown in Tampa. Giddy would be an understatement, if I were to describe how excited I am that I will have more of her in my life over the next three years. During my three-week trip home (that I’ve just returned from), she made time for a maternity session to capture my blossoming belly during this wonderful, hectic and sometimes, far-from peaceful time. See her blog entry about the session here. And, enjoy her magical, ethereal work below.

Endless thank yous to you, my sweetest sister + friend. You are truly gifted. And all that you are is a gift to me.

(all maternity portraits above taken by Deb Schwedhelm — a million thank yous!)

Don’t leave your photos in a closet (or on a disc) after your session is over. Use some of these inspirational ideas to showcase your photos in your home.

When it comes to displaying photographs and creating wall galleries, I love Room & Board’s simple and clean design ideas. Check out some of their display recommendations past and present. Their advice for picture-perfect displays: “Mounted picture ledges let you lean photo frames and books casually against the wall, while rails provide extra room for adding accent pieces into your display. You don’t need extensive wall space in order to showcase your collections. Blend frames of varying sizes and shapes on a single shelf to lend depth and perspective to an art or photo collection. Let the frames overlap for an organic, mix-and-match look.”

You can also unify your display by using frames of the same color.

Do you have favorite gallery inspirations? Or, care to share your own displays? Leave a link in the comments!

etsy is one of my favorite places for all things crafty. the collective talent of the artists there is amazing. whether you’re looking for a vintage frock or searching for art for your nursery, you’ll find it in spades here. full disclosure: don’t visit etsy unless you have time to browse, and preferably a warm coffee by your side. you won’t be able to leave anytime soon.

personalized art by penny prints is high on my list right now. i’m looking for the perfect print for finn’s nursery. enjoy exploring.