Friday, December 20, 2013

Grateful, Thankful and Joyful

by Stephanie

Somehow it doesn’t seem fair that I have to do this twice in one week but today I have the unhappy duty of telling you that this will be Stephanie’s last regular post with FOL. Stephanie is one of the original ‘Life Sisters’ here at FOL and we’re going to miss her. But as you’ve learned from reading her posts and seeing her photos, Stephanie has three young children and in the past two years, Stephanie’s life has brought on many new opportunities and challenges. As hard as she tries, Stephanie just hasn’t managed to turn into Wonder Woman so we’ll be bidding ‘adieu’ to her today.

We’ll miss her beautiful images, her wonderful writing, and most of all, Stephanie herself. I had the joy and honor of meeting Stephanie at Oasis in 2012 and what a pleasure it was. Join me is wishing her ‘godspeed’ as she channels her energies in other directions. And who knows? Maybe she’ll be like our prodigal Life Sister, Susan, and rejoin the team one day. Thank you, Stephanie, for sharing with us and being part of our FOL family.  ~Dotti



I'm sure many of you are knee deep in holiday preparations as you read this. With only five days left until Christmas, there are meals to be planned, gifts to be wrapped, parties to attend, and food to be cooked. It's easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle of it all. I know for me, as hard as I've tried to slow down and enjoy the journey, this year has seemed a bit like a sprint with everything going by in a blur. So I'm planning to use these next five days to take some time to stop and reflect on the joys of the season and even the past year, and to be grateful and thankful for all the pieces and parts that make up the craziness of my life!

As Dotti mentioned above, this is my last post with FOL. I look back on the journey of the last two years and I have so much for which to be thankful! I had never blogged before becoming a part of FOL and agreeing to do so pushed me a bit out of my comfort zone, but the rewards and joys have been countless. Not only have I met many beautiful women who inspire me every day, but I have had an opportunity to share my love of photography and life with all of you. And, although I will no longer be a regular contributor on the blog, I will continue to be a cheerleader from the sidelines. 

So as I sign off for the last time, I am sending you all big hugs and wishing you a most joy filled season!




13 comments:

Peggy said...

It is hard to say goodbye to both gals. I have so enjoyed visiting with them on your blog. I wil continue to come daily to see all your beautiful photography and read your interesting posts. Carry on. Peggy from PA

Dotti said...

Oh, Stephanie! So hard to let this happen! But we do understand ... three young children and a full-time career are not easy to manage. Thank you for being part of us these past two years, for helping us to get started and find our direction. You were a big part of it all and we're going to miss you. Be well, stop by, keep in touch. We love you and hope to see you on our pages from time to time. A joyous Christmas to you and your family. xo

CarolHart said...

I will miss seeing your lovely images and thought-provoking posts Stephanie. Hope to see you here as a guest poster from time to time. Wishing you and your family a very merry Christmas.

AFishGirl said...

It's been a joy to see your work, Stephanie, and read your words here. Wishing you peace abundant. Thank you for all the goodness you brought here and all the inspiration.

Carol said...

Stephanie - we are losing our valedictorian!!! When we were all first getting together, I was thrilled to be in a group that included your photography - I doubted if I could measure up! You have been gracious and inspiring - and Dotti - you're wrong - she already has been Superwoman - I don't know how anyone with young kids takes on these commitments! Merry Christmas to you and your beautiful family - and we will miss you!

susan said...

beautiful photo…beautiful post…beautiful girl. you will be missed! xo's

terriporter said...

As Dotti said, it's not fair to have to say goodbye to two of our sisters in one week. But I so admire you, not only for how you have contributed here while raising a family and working full time, but for knowing what your priorities have to be and having the courage to do what is best for you and your family. You have brought a special kind of sweetness to this group of ours that will be sorely missed but we do hope you will be a regular visitor and possibly occasional guest poster so that we won't lose touch. And I hope to be able to get together in person when I visit Dallas. All my good wishes for a wonderful holiday season for you and your family and a beautiful new year!

kelly said...

it has been such a pleasure getting to know you here and through your beautiful photographs. i will miss you and your inspiration. sending all my love and best wishes to you and your beautiful family. xo

Anonymous said...

I will definitely miss Stephanie and Carol, both of whom have inspired me greatly in my photography journey. I wish both of you all the very best in your new adventures along with a warm, wonderful and meaningful holiday.

Linda said...

Stephanie, you are a joyful person, it shines through you! I hope your holidays are full of love and happiness! You are an inspiration to me and I hope you will pop in here from time to time! I will miss you!

Linda said...

Stephanie, you are a joyful person, it shines through you! I hope your holidays are full of love and happiness! You are an inspiration to me and I hope you will pop in here from time to time! I will miss you!

heyjudephotography said...

Stephanie, I will tell you again, that you will be missed here. Your photography and words were always inspiring. I'm glad to have you as one of my FOL sisters, and I wish you the best with your family and career. Hugs!

Anonymous said...

Thank you for sharing your love of photography here on FOL! I have enjoyed reading your post, passion and energy…you will surely be missed!

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