December 31, 2017
If you haven’t noticed, we don’t post about our personal life very often. However, since it’s the end of the year, we thought we would share our 2017 Iphone highlights with you. There were so many to choose from, however, these were some of our favorite moments. Please keep in mind: these are ALL IPHONE PHOTOS. They say the best camera is the one you have in your hands, and we’d agree with that. Also, if you don’t care about seeing our kid, you’ll probably want to skip this post. He’s basically the star. Also, if you don’t want to hear our 2017 happenings or about Jesus, you’ll probably want to skip down to the photos 😉
In 2017, we had a lot happen personally. Austin lost his full time job due to lack of work in January, and honestly: it was a tough way to start the year. So, immediately I went back to working full time for a good while. Austin resumed making and designing guitars for Nystrum Guitars. At the beginning of wedding season, I dropped to part time again, and on Labor Day I quit a job that I’d worked really hard for. The decision to leave my job for good was for the sake of our business and our home, but it did not come easily. I loved working there, and it really exercised my brain to think strategically and problem solve. As an INTJ, it was like a dream job. However, moving forward, it really was the best decision for us at this time in life. Austin went back to work for a machine shop in the fall
In 2017, I’ve spent a lot of time finding music that makes you feel something. I’ve really enjoyed listening to The Milk Carton Kids, La La Land, the Hamilton soundtrack, and just recently: The Greatest Showman.
In the summer, one of my highschool friends died very suddenly and tragically. This event really shook me up. I don’t think a day has passed that I’ve not thought about it. In a lot of ways, it feels as though it didn’t actually happen, and it was basically a nightmare…but then you realize it’s actually real life. I feel as though, it’s one of those things that happens in the movies or happens to someone else, or someone who was mixed with the wrong crowd. You feel untouchable. And then, all of a sudden, you’re not untouchable. It makes you appreciate every moment a little more, and squeeze your loved ones a little more. But mostly what I’ve pondered over and over is the love and forgiveness of Jesus. The demonstration of Jesus’s grace being demonstrated in real life, by the people who were most affected. The actual acting out of what we are called to do as Christians. That death has no sting, even in the world full of sin, that Jesus wins. In the tragedy of it all, Jesus was so glorified. Life Changing.
in 2017 our kiddo turned 2! He has changed so much since January. He is such a little boy and adores Trains, Dinosaurs, Mickey Mouse, the Lion King, and Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood. At the beginning of the year, we moved him out of his crib, and into his big boy bed. He was a trooper and didn’t have a single problem with it. We had our very first injury shortly after I went back to work. I got a call from Austin saying that he had hurt his elbow. So, our first trip to the immediate care was to fix Nursemaid’s Elbow. This summer we spent a lot of time playing at the playground and the splashpad. He really loves going to church to “play with the kids!” Finally as the end of the year is here, he has taken it upon himself to potty train! So, that’s a work in progress. He is full of the funniest sayings. He is extraordinarily perceptive and really doesn’t forget things very often.
In August, Austin and I picked up our little guy after a wedding and came home with a kitten! Easton named her ” Baby. Tiger baby.” She’s been such a fun addition to our family. We really love her!
In the fall, after our season ended, we did some fun and exciting things! Austin decided that for my birthday we’d get a new car for my daily use, and business. Our friend Dave helped us pick out our new Nissan Rogue, and I absolutely love it. Then as a pretty fun adventure, we took our very first vacation since we’ve been married! We went to Orlando, Florida and took 3 days at Disney World and then 3 days of leisure. I adore Disney, and I’m pretty sure that Austin had fun as well! We’ve also begun our search to become first time home owners. It’s basically like a package of anxiety. However, do know that when book us, you’re supporting a family with real dreams of owning a home and not renting forever.
As we moved into winter, we’ve spent a lot of time together as a family. In the summer, I had spent a lot of time at work, and when I was home I tried to get our little one out of the house as much as possible. It was easier for Austin to work if we weren’t home, and I love being outdoors during the summer. But now that it’s cold, I’ve really taken to staying home and having uneventful days. I’ve been taking some time to take better care for myself. I’ve had some health issues recently that have drained my energy, so I’ve been keeping it low key and eliminating as much stress as possible.
In 2017, I think my biggest takeaway was all about Jesus. Who He was, what He came to do, and how I can live my life to be more of a reflection of Him. I read this beautiful quotation by Katie Davis. ”
I found it at the beginning of the year, and I find myself coming back to it over and over again. I’ve had SO many discussions about Jesus this year with mentors and people I love, and it has been so challenging. But overall, it has helped me see not just the death of Jesus, but to learn from the life of Jesus. To be Life giving to those around me. To forgive when forgiveness isn’t deserved. To listen without judgement. To love because He loved me. To enter in.
2017, I’m glad you happened. Here’s to the fuzzy photos, the imperfect life, the unforeseen, the ups and downs, the battles, the victories, and the constant love and grace of Jesus.
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Beautiful family and insightful post! Love and prayers!