This weekend, I attended a church ladies retreat called Bloom. In fact, not only did I attend and try to participate, but I was also the official photographer, my first event I have ever covered.
It was quite a challenge trying to figure it all out with no training in events (I've run them before, but never acted as the photographer). It was hard to figure out how to be appropriate, not to distract, where to position myself and how to use new gear that I wasn't completely familiar with, settings, etc. I ended up with some decent photos (and tons of duds) and put together a good presentation in the end, but man, it was exhausting and hard. Much to learn still.
This was one of my favorite shots. A rose in my Bible.
It was a day of renewal for me, a refreshing in my soul. I am so glad that I went and also experienced the photography side of it.
Years ago, when I was a newer mom with 2 babies, I remember feeling a drudgery about life. I was rather miserable in the day to day muck. And one day, the thought came to me to bloom where I am planted. To bloom amidst the diaper changes and the crying and the feedings. To bloom in all circumstances. Such a good message for life.
And last night, I collapsed into bed, physically and emotionally drained. I was all bloomed out;-).
Amanda, that is a beautiful composition and heartfelt share. I appreciate where you're coming from. And I know what it's like to be "bloomed out" too! :) Fav!
Instant fav and so wonderful for the theme. I enjoyed your narrative, Amanda. I think most every new mother goes through those drudgery feelings that you experienced, especially when one has children back to back. I was no exception. My 2 oldest were 14 months apart and I remember the days we only had one car, and I spent every day with 2 little ones in unfamiliar territory (1st yr in Florida-1970) watching Sesame Street, taking them for walks, swinging on the backyard swing, etc. But now that I look back, those were the most precious memories of my life. They grow old much too quickly. This photo should win for the renewal theme.
Fabulous shot, I am sure you did a brilliant job but I know that we tend to be hard on ourselves. Love your words too, it took me to hit rock bottom before picking myself up again, glad you realised it way before I did :-). Big fav
@cimes1 Loved your description of motherhood. Thanks so much for your lovely words and fav. I'd be honored to make the top 5:).
@roseolivia So sorry that you had to hit the bottom. I think that the phrase, words I heard came from God to somehow save me from the bottom. Being a mama is soooo hard at times, especially when you are mege sleep deprived. Hugs to you. And thanks!
@friend2303 You are so very good to me. Thanks, Vijay.
@rvwalker It showed me how very much I still need to learn, but the lady who asked me to do it was thrilled with what I did and said that I had a great artistic eye. Thanks, Ross!
love the 35mm - havent taken mine off since i got it - watched the link to your retreat and it was a wonderful glimpse into your world and a reminder on how the group spirit can help raise energy and help you feel up to trying new challenges - lovely shot here too
Wonderful bloom here.
@roseolivia So sorry that you had to hit the bottom. I think that the phrase, words I heard came from God to somehow save me from the bottom. Being a mama is soooo hard at times, especially when you are mege sleep deprived. Hugs to you. And thanks!
@thresheg So appreciate that, Graham!!
@rvwalker It showed me how very much I still need to learn, but the lady who asked me to do it was thrilled with what I did and said that I had a great artistic eye. Thanks, Ross!
@alia_801 @susale @ben514 @lesip Thanks so much for all of your wonderful comments!!
@kareenking So easy to be bloomed out. Thanks so much, lady!!
@deniseescovino @tryingforsighs So kind of you, ladies. Thank you!