When Reality Hits Hard

Okay, real talk of being a military spouse, mom and business owner. The other night, I stayed up way too late (like, “what was I thinking?” late) dreaming about everything I want to do for my business this year. My head was full of ideas, plans, and big goals. But then, it hit me.

We might be moving this year.

Just like that, all the building, growing, and hard work could come to a full stop. I’d have to pack it all up and start over. Again.

This is the part of military life that’s hard to explain to people who haven’t lived it. As a military spouse, a mom, and a business owner, it feels like life is always on a timer. You work your butt off, pour your heart into your business, make connections, build something solid, and then you might have to walk away from it all.

It’s exhausting. And honestly? It’s hard to overcome.

But Then I Remember Why I Do This.

I sat with that feeling for a bit. The frustration. The “what’s the point?” thoughts. And then I remembered the stories I’ve been lucky enough to capture.

Like the mom who teared up telling me how beautiful she felt in her photos. Or the couple who said they hadn’t felt that connected in a long time until their session. There have been cancer survivors and moms of kids fighting cancer who thanked me for giving them memories they can hold onto forever.

Then there are the moments that stop me in my tracks like watching a mom hold her baby for the first time, seeing a dad come home after months away, or being there when a family said goodbye to a loved one.

This is why I keep going. This is why I keep starting over.

Being a photographer isn’t just about snapping pretty pictures. It’s about freezing moments that families can hold onto, especially in this military life where everything can change overnight.

Because we know how fast time moves. Deployments happen. PCS orders drop out of nowhere. Kids grow up way too fast. These photos become the little anchors that help us hold onto those moments that matter most.

So, What’s Next?

Even with all the unknowns, I’m choosing to pour into my business anyway. To serve my clients the best I can. To keep building this thing I love even if I have to start over again down the road. If you would love to work with me here in Pensacola then I would love to tell your story. Reach out here!

Because at the end of the day, it’s worth it. Every family I meet, every moment I get to freeze in time, it all matters.

To my fellow military spouses, moms, and business owners, I get it. I see you. And we’re in this together. 💛

Here are some awesome resources for fellow spouses:

https://www.sba.gov/business-guide/grow-your-business/military-spouse-businesses#free-training

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Military Spouse Professional Network