This year I've been doing a lot of reflection and self discovery in an effort to identify my gifts. I've carefully selected inspirational writers, bloggers and speakers to invest my "free" time in. I've spoken to God more, sought him in my every day - and found him gently whistling through the crispy winter leaves, or shining through the pink and purple clouds that caress the setting sun. He has woken me at 3am, asking me to listen...to pay attention. Last weekend I attended the IF Gathering 2016 - and it was incredible! I'm realizing more and more than I cannot pour from an empty cup...so events like the IF, inspirational speakers like Dale Partridge and photographers that inspire me and up lift me - they help fill my cup so I have more to give.

Through my journey I am reminded time and time again that it's words and photographs that make my heart skip a beat. God has strategically placed them in my life to use and enjoy, and then ultimately bless. I've taken almost 2 years off from photography... mainly because of time and the current chapter of my life. BUT I do know that one day I will return to professional photography. I want to continue to richly bless those smiling for my shutter. I learned quickly that a photograph can show our generation how incredible they are, and that they are fearfully and wonderfully made. A true gift, and a beautiful one at that! I want to show this generation that they have worth - they just have to believe in themselves - love themselves through self confidence. Through my self discovery and preparation to use my gifts, I've been gathering inspiration from the photography world and was encouraged by several photographers to submit my work to Shoot and Share 2016. I was nervous to have my photographs shown alongside those I count more skilled than I. Out of nowhere I received an email from a world renown photographer that I have followed for a couple years now, and he said this to me "We know how nerve-racking it can be, and we want to encourage you to put yourself out there. You never know what will happen. Head over to the contest site and get brave and enter your 50 photographs today. Once you do, you'll receive your very own badge of courage". So I did. And here is my badge of courage!

What if I fail? Oh, but darling, what if you fly? - Shoot and Share 2016

So, voting begins February 15th. 185,000+ photographs represent over 7,000 photographers. 50 of those are mine. If you'd like to join the movement and vote for your favorite, here is the link: Shoot and Share 2016.

Wishing all my fellow photographers the best of luck! Especially my own cousin - Shaun Edwards!