women Archives - CHICAGO WEDDING & FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY

Best Maternity Photographer in Chicago – Timeless, Elegant Portraits

As the best maternity photographer in Chicago (well, according to me!), I have the incredible privilege of capturing the beauty and emotion that come with pregnancy. Maternity sessions are so special because they celebrate one of life’s most beautiful transitions—the journey to motherhood.

This recent maternity session was particularly memorable. Not only did I have the honor of photographing a glowing mom-to-be, but I also had the chance to work in a studio setting. This was a fun change for me. Typically, I shoot outdoors or in the comfort of clients’ homes. However, this session in the studio gave us a beautiful, controlled environment. Consequently, we were able to focus entirely on creating timeless, elegant maternity portraits.

Why I Love Being a Maternity Photographer in Chicago

To be the best maternity photographer in Chicago, one must know that each session is unique. For example, this specific session was full of deeply personal moments. The mom-to-be wore her late mother’s vintage nightgown. This was a touching tribute that added so much emotional depth to the photos.

Furthermore, her husband joined us for a few portraits. It was clear how deeply they loved and supported each other. The connection between them was palpable; therefore, I felt incredibly lucky to capture those intimate moments. As a photographer, there is nothing quite like seeing that kind of love. In fact, it is exactly what makes my work so rewarding.

Looking Ahead

I couldn’t wait to photograph their baby, and I will be adding that blog post soon. Knowing that I’ve captured the love and anticipation leading up to their little one’s arrival makes this session even more special. Being a photographer in Chicago means I get to document these precious moments for families. Ultimately, I couldn’t be more grateful for that opportunity. I am truly lucky to have a job that pushes my creativity and allows me to remember how it felt to be in a mother’s shoes.

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Minimalist maternity photography in a Chicago studio, featuring a mother-to-be and clean lines.

Timeless Chicago Studio Maternity Photography: Minimalist Style

Serene and intimate studio maternity portrait of an expecting mother in Chicago.

Mom to be holding her belly in a gorgeous studio downtown

mom holding her hair while belly is out and beautiful

Close-up maternity shot with vintage nightgown and mom’s hands cradling baby bump in Chicago

mother to be dancing basked in beautiful light in a night gown

gorgeous light envelops a mother to be in a studio setting

black and white image of a mother to be dancing in a studio for her maternity shoot

A pregnant woman in a flowing white dress stands gracefully in a bright studio with large windows and a minimalist backdrop.

A pregnant woman wearing a light-colored dress, standing gracefully with her hands on her belly, looking to the side against a plain background.

April 29, 2025

North Riverside maternity photographer | In-Home Lifestyle

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Finding the right North Riverside maternity photographer is all about finding someone who understands your style. Specifically, for this session, we stayed in the comfort of Erin’s home. As a result, it was the perfect backdrop for a relaxed, lifestyle session.

There is a unique magic to capturing the anticipation of motherhood within your own walls. Recently, I had the joy of creating that magic for Erin. Because we chose her living space for the session, the setting was both serene and intimate. Consequently, this allowed her natural beauty to shine through. The comfort of her own home truly allowed her to relax. Therefore, we were able to capture genuine and heartfelt images. For anyone considering a session, know that we can create a personalized experience. In fact, my goal is to capture the essence of this special time in your life.

North Riverside IL Indoor Maternity Photography

Honestly, Erin’s family was the best! It was not about perfectly posed shots at all. Instead, it was all about capturing those genuine, in-between moments. Her partner was very present. Furthermore, you could feel the real love and excitement in every room. They truly made my job as a North Riverside maternity photographer easy.

Also, we have to mention the pups! Surprisingly, they were total naturals. They just wandered in and out, thereby adding an adorable, unscripted element to the day. Because we let things unfold naturally, we captured the real laughter and warmth of their home. Ultimately, it was not about creating a picture-perfect scene. Rather, it was about capturing the true, candid essence of their family. You could just feel the love filling the room. In the end, that is what made the photos so incredibly special.”

Pregnant woman relaxing in a chair, gently cradling her belly, with a peaceful expression.

A pregnant woman sitting in a chair, smiling at a young boy who is sitting beside her, touching her belly. The setting has large windows with natural light and wooden flooring.

A couple sharing a tender moment while sitting on a couch in a sunlit room, with the woman visibly pregnant and the man gently touching her face.

A pregnant woman sitting on a couch, gently cradling her belly while looking down, with curly hair and wearing a green long-sleeve shirt.

A cozy living room with large windows allowing natural light, featuring a couple sitting closely on a gray couch, wrapped in a colorful blanket, with a small dog beside them and plants in the background.

A pregnant woman gently cradles her belly while sitting on a couch, with large windows in the background letting in soft natural light. north riverside il maternity photography

A couple dancing in a brightly lit room with large windows, while a small dog watches them. The woman is pregnant and wearing a green top, and the man is wearing glasses and has a beard. north riverside il maternity photography

Two dogs standing at a glass door, looking in. One is light-colored with long fur, wearing a sweater, and the other is dark-colored with short fur.

A black and white image of a couple lying on a bed, embracing and sharing a kiss.

A pregnant woman sitting on a bed, gently cradling her belly while wearing a green top and jeans. The room features a cozy atmosphere with decorative pillows and a bedside lamp. north riverside il maternity photography

A pregnant woman sitting comfortably on a bed, gently cradling her belly while wearing a long-sleeve top and jeans. Soft shadows cast across the bed from a nearby window. maternity session in north riverside il

A family of four sitting on a bed with two dogs. A woman pets a small dog while a boy sits next to her. A man is interacting with another dog, creating a cozy and warm atmosphere.

Black and white portrait of a young boy with curly hair, smiling and looking to the side.

A joyful moment between a pregnant woman and a young boy, smiling at each other in a home hallway.

A pregnant woman in a green top and jeans gently cradles her belly while standing in front of a mirror, reflecting a soft interior with floral wallpaper.

If you are looking for a North Riverside maternity photographer, I recommend booking during your second trimester. This ensures we have a date on the calendar for when you are around 30-34 weeks along. Whether your home is filled with natural light or cozy shadows, we will create something timeless together.

April 8, 2025

Montrose Beach Maternity Session | The Adri Photo Co.

Gloomy skies. Trees full of leaves. The scent of flowers in the air. As a Montrose Beach Maternity session, I have seen our city in every kind of weather, but there is something truly special about a quiet, overcast morning. I recently met with a beautiful couple expecting their first baby, and the atmosphere was thick with hope and imagination.

The Beauty of a Montrose Beach Maternity session Chicago Session

We sought out the natural beauty of the city for this session. While most clients hope for clear blue skies, any experienced Montrose Beach Maternity session will tell you that a little overcast light is actually a dream. It acts as a giant softbox, creating a fogginess that was the cherry on top for these portraits. Parenthood is about to become a reality for these two, and capturing that transition in such a dreamy setting was magical.

They spent the morning wondering what their baby will look like and who they will become. It’s that beautiful “in-between” stage where everything is about to change.

a future mom and dad at their maternity session Chicago maternity photographer session at a park

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A pregnant woman in a flowing dress stands outdoors, gently cradling her baby bump, surrounded by soft, blurred greenery. Chicago maternity photographer

mom to be looking at dad Chicago maternity photographer session at a park

smiling maternity client holding her belly

maternity image of mom near a beautiful tree

A woman in a flowing turquoise dress stands under a blossoming tree in a foggy landscape, holding a bouquet of flowers.

Close up of baby bump captured by Chicago maternity photographer

mom and dad walking holding hands at their maternity session

couple near tall grass at Chicago maternity photographer session

A couple embraces in a lush outdoor setting, surrounded by flowering trees and greenery. The woman wears a flowing blue dress and looks affectionately at the man, who is dressed in a navy shirt.

A couple sharing a romantic kiss in a grassy field surrounded by colorful trees in a misty landscape.

Close-up of pink flowering branches with a blurred background.

Why Book a Chicago Maternity Photographer?

Maternity sessions are more than just a photoshoot; they are a celebration of a couple’s connection. It is often the “last stop” before bringing home a new piece of wonder. As a Chicago maternity photographer, my goal is to capture the emerging motherhood and the deep connection between partners. This couple was so incredibly in sync, and you can read the pure happiness on their faces in every frame.

Whether we are shooting at Montrose Beach or tucked away in a leafy park, these sessions preserve the anticipation and the “juicy details” of your story before the sleepless nights and newborn snuggles begin. I love being a Chicago maternity photographer because I get to document the very beginning of a family’s newest chapter.

July 2, 2024

S

Winter is the calm after the busy Fall season. It goes by rather quickly. I’m so grateful for that calmness but I like being in the thick of my client work the most. This year however I decided to embrace some personal work a little more for these restless days. The challenge was quite simple ; capture yourself, one image a day for the month of February. I’ve never done anything like this. To be honest I do care about how I’m perceived, I think anyone who says otherwise is just lying to themselves. & honestly this is just screaming I love myself a little too much, for a moment It took on a negative feeling. But when that settled I thought of all of those days when I didn’t love myself, and how l behaved in the moments I lacked self love.

For the first time in my life I truly + completely love every . single. part. of my being. I am intentionally working on not using words like good or bad to describe myself, but what I will say is that anything that I was lacking before is so full to the brim now. Self Portraiture has always been a gift to the artist. These are a gift to me and my children, I know one day not terribly close but in the near future I’ll look different. I’ll feel different. My hope is that my new found compassion for myself only grows.

Today in the middle of my 32nd birth year I am heartbroken, growing, expanding, learning and practicing what I preach. I am a multitude of feelings, I am things I can’t describe yet. Words I can’t find. These images have truly shown me that when I decide to show up for myself great things can happen. While these images may seem ordinary to most there are big connections to parts of me I have or I am in the process of grieving.

I hope you try showing up for yourself

I won’t lie. This has been so hard. I selected the coldest month to do this project, because clearly I don’t think things through enough lol. I just jump right in. That’s me. So I’m desperately thinking of new ways to use my tiny space. Not to mention new ways to see myself. I’m deeply proud of how I’ve stuck with it and I’m now more than half way through this project. It’s so so cool. I have always been the type to lean into the discomfort. & this, the capturing myself daily has been uncomfortable as hell.

I try to close my eyes pop on some Carla Morrison and let inspiration take me where it wants to. I have also let my mind wander, my smiles are genuine, thoughts of my children and other people I love run across my mind and I can’t help but smile and send them light and love always. If you are seeking inspiration in anything I hope you always remember you are always the source of greatness. Start with you today.

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self portrait of woman topless facing away smiling on a couch

black and white photo of woamn playing with her hair

self portrait of woman in shower in black and white with hand on the glass

self portrait of a naked woman outlined by a plant

a self portrait reflection of a woman reading

self portrait of woman in man's white shirt

self portrait of mom and daughter on the floor reading

February 18, 2022

Aurora IL birth photographer | baby Finnian

Documenting a Powerful Home Birth in Aurora, IL

She did it, and I am so proud of her! Honestly, home birth will never cease to amaze me. The knowledge of intuitive midwives and the power of family create a unique strength. Specifically, this strength shines in every image. As a home birth photographer in Aurora, IL, I feel privileged to witness these life-changing moments. Indeed, I love seeing how a woman finds her power within her own walls.

I recently sent these images to the mother. Afterward, she told me that birth photography connects so much for her. This is especially true in the blurry aftermath of labor. I agree completely. Because it is the hardest work of our lives to birth a child, we often feel a floodgate of doubt. However, images like these serve as powerful reminders of our capability. Furthermore, they prove what is possible when we trust our bodies.

mom sitting on excersice ball buring her birth Home birth photographer Aurora IL capturing labor support

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Why Hire a Home Birth Photographer in Aurora, IL?

In addition to documenting the labor, I captured the arrival of her beautiful new boy, Finnian. She is clearly equipped to raise incredible men. Actually, the kindness that surrounds this family is grand. As a result, I can’t wait to see who this little person becomes.

If you are planning a delivery at home, hiring a home birth photographer in Aurora, IL is a great choice. Therefore, you can focus on your strength while I handle the storytelling. Moreover, birth is a marathon. Consequently, having a professional there ensures that every first breath is documented. In conclusion, these photos are a legacy of a family’s most important day.

laboring inside a bath tub during a birth Home birth photographer Aurora IL capturing labor support

water birth Home birth photographer Aurora IL capturing labor support

mother in tub with eyes closed Home birth photographer Aurora IL capturing labor support

midwife sitting by biirthing mom Home birth photographer Aurora IL capturing labor support

A dimly lit room featuring a pregnant woman in active labor, supported by a caregiver. The woman is positioned beside a bed while the caregiver assists her, highlighting a moment of intimacy and support.

midwife consoling mom Home birth photographer Aurora IL capturing labor support

laboring at home Home birth photographer Aurora IL capturing labor support

A woman sitting on a bed, receiving a foot massage from another woman, in a softly lit room with a calm atmosphere.

soon to be big brother Home birth photographer Aurora IL capturing labor support

A woman receiving a foot massage while sitting on a bed, with another woman providing the massage. Soft lighting creates a calming atmosphere.

laboring Home birth photographer Aurora IL capturing labor support

dad and his boys during birth Home birth photographer Aurora IL capturing labor support

A woman in a black tank top sits on a bed, looking uncomfortable during labor. The left side of the image shows her holding her belly, while the right side shows another woman assisting her as she prepares for childbirth.

contraction Home birth photographer Aurora IL capturing labor support

A woman sitting on a bed in a bedroom, looking down while adjusting her clothing. A crib is in the foreground, and natural light filters through a window.

midwife helping mom through contractions Home birth photographer Aurora IL capturing labor support

mom walking in stairs Home birth photographer Aurora IL capturing labor support

laborig in the stairs during a home birth Home birth photographer Aurora IL capturing labor support

A black and white image depicting two women in a home setting, with one woman descending the stairs while the other assists her. The doorway in the background leads to a bright room, contrasting with the darker area of the staircase.

light and shadows Home birth photographer Aurora IL capturing labor support

A woman in labor sits on a bed, showing signs of concentration and discomfort, while two support individuals are nearby, observing and assisting.

A group of women supporting a person in bed during a birthing process, with one woman providing comfort while others assist.

A woman in labor is assisted by a midwife, displaying expressions of pain and emotions while holding a newborn, in a serene bedroom environment.

A mother cradles her newborn baby in a cozy indoor setting, surrounded by supportive caregivers.

A woman in a tank top is lying on a bed, cradling a newborn wrapped in a towel. A healthcare worker is assisting nearby. In the background, several children watch attentively, some appearing excited.

A close-up of a hand holding a newborn's hand, wrapped in a towel, captured in black and white.

A mother cradles her newborn baby while sitting on a bed, surrounded by family members. The scene captures an intimate moment of bonding, with expressions of joy and love present.

A mother cradling a newborn baby on her chest in a cozy bedroom setting, surrounded by family, including children and adults engaging in conversation.

A black and white image depicting a family scene with a newborn baby being held, while two young children look on curiously. The setting appears to be a cozy room with soft lighting.

A black and white photograph depicting a close-up of a mother and her sleeping baby resting together, highlighting their intimate connection and peaceful environment.

A mother is breastfeeding her newborn baby while sitting on a bed, in a serene and intimate setting, captured in black and white.

A black and white image of a young child standing in a room with soft lighting, looking towards the camera.

A close-up of a newborn baby being held gently by an adult hand.

A close-up of a newborn baby lying against a parent's chest, showcasing skin-to-skin contact on a soft blanket. — A tranquil moment capturing a newborn resting on their mother’s chest, symbolizing the profound connection of family and the beauty of home birth.

A cozy and softly lit bedroom scene with a family gathered around a bed, assisting with a newborn, capturing a moment of care and connection.

A newborn baby swaddled on a bed surrounded by family members, with a midwife or medical professional present. The scene shows an informal setting with children and adults, some interested in the baby. There is a noticeable stain on the bed, suggesting a recent birth.

Capturing the First Moments

When you look back at your gallery, you won’t just see a baby. You will see the support of your partner and the skill of your midwives. As your home birth photographer in Aurora, IL, my goal is to remain a quiet, respectful presence in your space. I want you to look at these photos years from now and remember exactly how strong you were in your own home.

August 11, 2021

Self portrait inspiration Chicago | Conversations with the sun

This is the recipe of life

said my mother

as she held me in her arms as I wept

think of those flowers you plant

in the garden each year

they will teach you

that people too

must wilt

fall

root

rise

in order to bloom

r u p i k a u r

Today I have some self portrait inspiration chicago, I bought myself some sunflowers recently. It’s one of my favorite flowers mainly because of the big connection to the sun and how they are so in love with the sun. Yes I know all flowers technically need the sun, ha. But it seems to me like sunflowers are this special letter from the sun to us. They bathe in it, live for the sun. Then in a short amount of time die. They are flowers that make a statement. Even if you buy a bunch of them, every single sunflower has their own personality it seems. They remind me of Mexican Art. They remind me of resilience. I think of fire and power when I see that flower. All other flowers, especially in my favorite group are dainy, soft and beautiful but this flower is different. Yes, you can’t deny its beauty, but the thing I love most of all is their grandeur. It’s a helluva flower.

Self Portrait inspiration in Chicago

I started this self portrait series with the intent to focus on my hair. & how i’ve outgrown the hate for it finally at 31. Perhaps hate is a strong word but I felt it in waves towards my hair. I guess somehow the wilted sunflowers on my coffee table became the star of this series. And I don’t mind that at all. My hair can have it’s shinning moment another time.

I’m currently relearning and unlearning things I couldn’t even imagine I’d be in the middle of at 31. I stupidly had this notion when I was younger exhausted by life that by 30, I would be Ok. And it’s not that I’m not Ok, but it seems that the thing that I greatly tried to avoid. The very thing I didn’t want. I became. & now I am so grateful for that. For the way it made me come to acceptance. Im in the middle of healing, but more importantly in the middle of living.

You see when you aren’t your most authentic self, you keep pushing forward regardless of the pain to the next milestone. You think to yourself, perhaps when I have kids I’ll feel better. Perhaps when I get married it will be Ok. Or when I am wiser and older, I will finally get relief. But relief never comes because it doesn’t really exist. The tension we hold. That’s just how it feels when you’re constantly running. God knows I’m an expert at running, I could run forever if they’d let me. Pushing everything far far away from the front of my mind. I finally had this little rip in my heart, it brought me to my knees and it caused me to make all of the life changes I am currently living. My heart caught up with my mind I guess. So I am buying myself sunflowers because I am learning the difference between being alone and loneliness.

self portrait inspiration chicago

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movement in self portrait inspiration in chicago

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June 14, 2021

Wood Dale Family Photographer | Quantifiable Beauty

I heard something recently. It said ” dreaming is a form of planning”. It resonated wildly with my soul. Everything I’ve ever wanted started as a dream. Me with my wild expectations. Most of the time when I would voice my dreams to others it would sound like I lost my damn mind. It always made me feel slightly crazy. But the thing that I have learned is that people lack imagination. Most are living and acting from a place of fear. Without intention. I have always felt this nagging voice for more. Not more in a form of quantifiable things, but more beauty, more aliveness more feelings. It’s probably why I felt pulled towards this medium. I want to record and preserve as many feelings as I can. I guess I’m a junky for that.

I took these self portraits right before heading out and capturing my loves. But I felt the need to make a separate post because I want to encourage others to dream. I never grew up being asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, so perhaps thats how I’ve allowed myself to be whatever the (insert bad word) I want. I am a bunch of things. I’ve dreamt about most. Being a mother was a big one. I dreamt of building up little babies to be the best versions of themselves. I dreamt of a marriage, and even though it wasn’t what I expected I am also not too proud to say perhaps that dream can look different now. What ever you want your life to be in the future, you first have to dream it. You have to stop fitting into the mold of what people expect of you. I hope my children read my words someday and look over what they’ve achieved and know full well that they made that happen. Not for others but for themselves. I’ve had some wild dreams lately. Most of them are absolutely within reach currently they just take some work. Others are timely, others I will have to give up. But I’m excited for it all.

“The surest way to make your dreams come true is to live them.”

― Roy T. Bennett

I’ve been thinking of starting a personal blog to write more about those dreams, I’m still debating. We’ll see what happens and the direction I go in .

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November 23, 2020

Austin travel portrait photographer

When I travel, I always bring my camera. I love exploring new landscapes and capturing the soul of a city. On a recent trip, I visited the vibrant city of Austin, Texas. I wanted to capture something unique during my stay. As an Austin travel portrait photographer, I decided to experiment with a special artistic technique called “freelensing.”

A woman with dreadlocks, dressed in an off-the-shoulder top, looking down thoughtfully in a lush green setting. Austin travel portrait photographer

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Understanding the Freelensing Technique

If you look closely at these photos, you will notice a dreamy, soft blur and a unique shift in focus. This is the result of “freelensing.” Instead of keeping the lens locked onto the camera body, I detach it and hold it just in front of the sensor.

This technique allows me to tilt the glass and create a selective focus that is impossible to achieve with standard lenses. It creates an ethereal, romantic aesthetic that feels timeless. If you want to dive deeper into the technical side of this artistic craft, . It is a fantastic way to turn ordinary portraits into fine art.

A woman with long dreadlocks wearing an off-shoulder top stands amidst lush greenery, partially smiling and looking down while holding a necklace. Austin travel portrait photographer

A woman with long hair wearing an off-shoulder green dress stands in a lush, floral outdoor setting, with her hair flowing in motion.

Why Hire an Austin Travel Portrait Photographer?

Many people assume travel photography is just about landscapes. However, I believe it is about people. Travel sessions offer a fresh perspective that studio work cannot match. Whether you live in Texas, are visiting for a weekend, or want me to travel to your destination, a portrait session creates a permanent memory. Because I am a portrait photographer, I specialize in documentary-style portraits. I do not just pose you; I capture the way you interact with the city.

How to Book Your Next Session

This trip was a major highlight of my year. Austin has an incredible energy, from its murals to its park spaces. Are you looking for an Austin travel portrait photographer to document your own journey? or to check my availability for your specific travel dates!

A woman with long, dark dreadlocks stands in a natural setting, wearing an olive green off-the-shoulder dress. Surrounding her are green plants and cacti under a blue sky. Austin travel portrait photographer

A woman with long, dark hair wearing an olive green off-the-shoulder dress stands near a pink wall surrounded by cactus plants. Austin travel portrait photographer

A woman in a green dress stands against a pink wall, with a wooden door and colorful houses in the background. Trees and plants are visible, creating a serene outdoor setting. Austin travel portrait photographer

A black and white image featuring a person with long hair standing against a textured wall, partially obscured by a wooden door. The second part of the image shows the same person in a different pose, leaning against a wall near houses and trees. Austin travel portrait photographer

September 24, 2020

Standing in the light | Chicago and west suburbs photographer

This post is a little departure from what I usually blog, beautiful families with tiny humans who bring so much joy. But I think throwing something different at you is something you can handle. May even be necessary. I’ve been exploring what my womanhood means to me. & I probably shoud have shared self portraits along with my words, but sharing women who inspire me seemed more fitting. I would say that unless I found myself on the path that I am on I would have never even questioned what I thought about womanhood. These images are from Austin, the last location for the last workshop I hosted. I had a conversation with my friend B via Facetime recently, in which we agreed that for both of us so much perspective and change came about leaving our nests for these workshops. I can’t speak for everyone who has ever ventured out of their comfort zones but for me, I can’t live without the challenge. If I get too comfortable it becomes this nagging feeling that I need to push myself. That’s what these workshops meant. Pushing myself and in the process discovering more about what it means to fail and to get comfortable with the unknown. Im evolving my thinking and have so much to uncover but for now I’ll leave it at this new discovery is beautiful. This new questioning is amazing. Womanhood is dope as hell. I’m so excited to grow more into myself.

Can I also say how important it is to sorround yourself with inspiring women who are living their life in their own way unapologetically. Both Britt and Angela have in so many silent ways encouraged me to live authentically. This ish is hard, I won’t lie. I remember when I first became aquainted with these two women. Their existence and the way they moved through the world made me so uncomfortable. I think it was because to me, they were living true to themselves and I didn’t know at the time how desperately I wanted that to be me. These days I am living and standing in my truth. I know without a shadow of a doubt what I want and I am persuing that passionately. I hope this post encourages you to do the same.