Thank you!

I have so much to be grateful for.  I could list out all the big ones - my husband, my kids, my family, our health, our home, and that we always have food on the table.  I do not want to take these things for granted.  But what God has put on my heart this week is a thankfulness that he is always teaching me, and that he who began a good work in me will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus (Philippians 1:6).The past six months or so, my eyes have been opened to areas in my life that needed changed.  I had been striving for way too long, and bringing myself to complete exhaustion.  Everything I was doing was good, good work and fun, but none of it was ending up being fun because I did not allow enough time for any of it.  I was always rushing, always racing the clock to get things done in time.  I kept saying that I wasn't just keeping my head above water, but I was barely keeping my nose out of the water.  I was wearing myself ragged, and it affected every area of my life.I had to take a hard look at what was most important to me, and at the end of the day that answer was simple - my family.  Everything else needed to be cut way back.  I needed to do some major pruning.  I don't have a natural green thumb, but what I have learned the past few months is that when you are pruning, you are not simply cutting away the dead branches.  You are also cutting away healthy, leafy branches to make way for new growth.  That is hard to do!So, with all that being said, my photography business is one of the things that needs pruned.  At the end of December, Leah Fruth Photography will be closed.  I don't know if that means closed forever or for a few years or down the road simply taking on little projects here and there.  It so difficult to do because this business is still healthy and full of beautiful leaves; I love it and photography is still my passion.  I am confident that this is the right decision though, and I am excited for all that I can dream up for the future -- to  have some time to dream again, and to rest, and simply have some fun.My photography business has been my dream since my Senior year of High School.  When I began this business ten years ago, newly married in our little apartment, it seemed like a crazy dream.  I could have never imagined the successful business I have today, all of the momentous moments and families I would get to photograph, and all of the clients that would turn into friends.  I am so grateful for this and for all of you who have trusted me with your memories.So, THANK YOU!  I have already shed enough tears over this, so instead I would like to celebrate!  Here's a little look back at me behind the scenes.  These pictures bring back so many good, good memories!