Week 2.40: The Little Things Are the Big Things

2.40: The Little Things Are the Big Things is a photo of a gorgeous little girl I get to photograph as she grows up. I am so glad her mom found out I'm a photographer and that she invites me to capture The Little Things in her daughter's life on a regular basis. This week is dedicated to another "Featured Favorite:" Judy.

Judy is always great at reminding me that The Little Things Are the Big Things. She can always be counted on to encourage me toward bigger and better things in my photography while at the same time loving me exactly where I am. Come to think of it, the whole Romero family treats my photography that way. I'm really thankful for that.

Really, their fan base has buoyed me on more than one occasion where I was doubting myself. And even though they may be in the midst of doubting themselves on one level or another, they always remind me to check my perspective. Because, really, truly, The Little Things Are the Big Things.

And while getting paid money is always nice (and the practical side of my business) the really important stuff is sometimes what goes on when the camera is put away and we're enjoying lunch on an Old Town patio or birthday cake in someone's backyard. It's the conversation and the tears and the honesty and the coffee and the scramble for cover when it rains...while Sophia runs straight into it. And then, we're reminded together that The Little Things Are the Big Things.

In the past couple of months I've taken a journey into the land of reevaluation thanks in no small part to a little matchmaking company who shall remain nameless at this point. It's funny how something like a matchmaking company can impact someone in some really profound ways.

Turns out, I do want to play another round of marriage. That in and of itself is pretty huge.

Turns out, anyone can lie on their profile. Turns out, people can lie to themselves. Turns out, lots of people don't actually know what they want. Turns out, lots of people don't know themselves all that well. Turns out, dating is harder the second time around, but I think that further reinforces my belief that marriage is going to be that much more rewarding the second time around, too.

I've also reinforced some of my core values. I'm learning what is a deal breaker and what makes a deal. Once again, The Little Things Are the Big Things. I value: Integrity. Honesty. Good old-fashioned hard work. Chemistry. Comfortable silence. Spark. Determination. Respect. Reciprocation. Brains. Being pursued. Spiritual connection. Huevos (for the non-New Mexicans, that's slang for Guts). Success on a non-material level.

There are also the "small" things I really don't care for. Politics. Hotness. Impressive cars/homes/paychecks. Social status. Insecurities. Great starts that fizzle out. Small talk. Showmanship. Labels. Casual attitudes. Titles. Futuristic goals without substance. Being treated as an accessory rather than an essential. General interest.

Anyway, when I have the proper perspective, The Little Things Are the Big Things and everything else seems to fall into place as it should. Thank you, Judy, for reminding me of that. I know you're on your own journey, and I hope you know that you're so much more to me than a client. You're my friend.

And thank you, friends, who have stood by me and loved me these past five months that I've agonized over who I am, where I'm going, what I want and what I don't want. I know so much of my certainty is due to your steadfast reassurance and encouragement. I'm especially grateful to the Flemmings, Naidus, Gossards, Kimberlys, Schaefers, Dista, Butterfly, The Mom & Dad, The Mister & Missus, The Gabe Dotys, The Jordan Dotys, The Luke Dotys, THE Hobcaw Annie, Miss VanLooPooPants, Svetlana M., Daisy Mayhem, Kitten, Flor, Wahkuna, That Wiggins Girl, and the brand spanking new Kim and Jason David (my latest and greatest bride and groom). Each of you has played a pivotal role in where I now find myself today. You are all my Little Things and I am so grateful for you!!