This time of the year, you see lots of people talking about all the things they are thankful for.  Posts on Facebook, Twitter, personal blogs, and even all over television. And why shouldn’t we shout from the rooftops all the things we are so blessed with?!? But I admit, my eyes start to glaze over when I see the millionth “Day 17: I am thankful for my blah blah blah.” I don’t mean to be insensitive, just honest. And deep down, I wish that we didn’t just overshare our gratefulness for one month a year. Why not celebrate every day of every year? I purposefully didn’t post a “30 Days of Thanks” thread this year, because I am trying to be a better person who appreciates every single thing, every single day.

My inspiration is my precious little girl. Only 4 years old, and the impact she has made on me is immeasurable. She is the person I most want to impress, inspire, guide, love, and take care of.  She is what I am most thankful for, and I am grateful for every day I can spend with her. Her personality is so BIG, and her heart so open. I know she makes an impression on everyone she meets, and I hope that she can change their lives just a fraction of how much she has changed mine. We always joked she is an old soul, wiser than her years; but she is also a lighthearted prankster, a sweet and caring friend, and a wickedly intelligent student and observer of all things.

A little over a week ago, just the two of us ventured out on a cool, rainy Autumn day for a few snaps. I returned home with hundreds of amazing images, completely surprising me. (I expected a few great shots, but not the number we actually shot!) I feel this impromptu session really captured her spirit, and I think you can see her character shine through.  She had so much fun taking these. I hope you love them as much as I do. ?

All of these images were shot with a Canon 85mm f/1.8 lens, which I will be reviewing in an upcoming blog post. I have had many people ask me what my favorite lenses are, and how to buy gear on a budget, and this lens falls under both categories! Love it!