One of my yoga teachers says, "The Universe is conspiring for you, not against you." So often we think we're being "tested" by God. But I don't think God tests us. I choose to think that things are working in a way that is supposed to challenge us, but also uplift us. These "tests" show us the strength we have within that we might not otherwise have been witness to.

It feels very vulnerable and scary to put yourself out there into the Universe and trust that things will work out in your favor eventually. I felt nervous and self-conscious posting last week on my Instagram that I'm available for photoshoots. It felt presumptuous to assume my work is good enough to gain the attention of others, and then to have someone pay me for it.

But, as it so often does, the starts aligned and I found myself encouraged and surprised by the interest that post received. I spent an afternoon last week with Caroline. We met as new coaches for Girls On The Run Sacramento and have spent the last three months taking a rowdy, sassy, and endearing group of 3rd-5th grade girls through the GOTR program.

Caroline is a writer and was looking for new content to include on both her website and Instagram. Her enthusiasm for the whole process was contagious. She is a natural goof and has very little shame in making a fool out of herself. I envy people with these traits-to not worry so much about what others think of you must be very freeing.

I'm so grateful for the opportunity to push myself-both emotionally in offering my services, and technically in photographing someone other than myself or the trips that I go on. And even if Caroline is the only client I book, I know that had I not spoken up, had I not taken that leap of trust and faith in the process, I never would have felt this particular pride and excitement.

xxo