"Change and Struggle go Hand in Hand"~J*

Last week, I had the extraordinary honor of heading up to Nashville with Kristin of KLP Photography to go see not only a photographer, but a mentor and an inspiration. When I saw that Jasmine Star was going to be in Nashville for something called "The FIX" I immediately shrieked, put a note in my calendar and impatiently waited for the day that tickets went on sale. I had no idea what she would be talking about or what The FIX even WAS! But I knew I had to be there. Since starting this crazy and intense ride of kick starting my photography career, I have always watched and listened to what J* has said. She worked her butt off and has always stayed humble and down to earth and that is something to be admired; especially today and especially in the photography industry. 

I'm not going to lie! I was absolutely star struck at first. I couldn't get over the fact that we were both wearing navy and white stripped shirts! Did this mean we were meant to be best friends forever? J*...you're friendship bracelet is in the mail! ;)
Once I had a glass of wine and mingled and met with other photographers, I finally calmed down and really started to get interested in who the other photographers that were there were! People came from near and far! I couldn't believe that everyone in that room was there for this one person. But not only that, they actually seemed to care about what I had to say (or it could have been the wine...when I get nervous I can't seem to shut up). I walked away from The Fix, not only with a new found feeling of accomplishment for what I've already achieved, but also with a gaggle of gals that I know I could shoot an email, or jump on a FB photography forum and ask a question and they would be there to lend a helping hand! That my friends is powerful!

I sat on what she said for close to a week. I didn't look at my notes, I just let it soak in. Once I finally sat down yesterday and looked over everything, I realized that I don't believe there could have been a better time for me to hear the words that she spoke. That she preached! Can I get an 'Amen'? ;)

So to Jasmine Star and The FIX I can only say 'Thank You'. Thank you for sharing, for teaching, for encouraging and for just being You!