[natural. beautiful. You] [Monica Brown, Pensacola Photographer]

So this is where I am.

As you grow and change as a person, you do the same as an artist.

I have been fortunate to have very (positively) influential people surrounding me lately. My husband is always there for me, especially on those not-so-great days, to show me the big picture and pull me out of the weeds. He helps me stay focused on the important things and forget the insignificant things that bother me. My children are always there with a smile. I am very blessed to have truly happy children. Don't get me wrong, they have their meltdowns. But for the most part they shower me with hugs and kisses and the occasional statement, "you're a good mommy." It doesn't get any better than that.

I also have help with all things photography from my great friend, Michelle. If I have a business or technical question, I know she is always happy to help me along my journey. It is because of her, I know I can be great.

I have also made a new and wonderful friend since moving here to Pensacola. She has helped me in many ways. In fact, the word help seems such an understatement. It all started with sleepless nights after our move and horrible back pain. My mother in law recommended the mother of a child in her class who was a massage therapist. However, Marina is much more than that. She has become an endearing friend who is there to help in any way she can. Her solutions are always so simple - yet so significant. She and her family have such loving and giving souls. They inspire me to be better. To make a difference. I have learned to stay more clearly focused and depend less on "things." They have also taught me how to be more aware of my impact. Not only on others, but the environment.

I say all of that to get to this. I am finally coming into my own with my style with my photography. I have found what truly brings me joy. It all seems to gravitate around all things natural -

The outdoors.

The laughter of a child.

The heartwarming smile of a mother holding her newborn.

Things, emotions, events that occur naturally and hold such beauty. It inspired the new text found on my homepage:

[natural. beautiful. You]

I believe this is the feeling that my images convey. Nothing made up. Just you. Being just you.

Here are a few of my favorite images:

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My Eco-Challenge for this month:

In this quest to be simpler, I am trying to collect less things. One major thing is plastic bags. I am doing my best to remember my reusable bags, and if I forget I just carry my items out in my arms. I am also designing reusable bags to package your orders. A small and simple thank you that you can use over and over.

April 22 is Earth Day, and I hope that by then I can no longer rely on any plastic bags.

Any one else in????????? If so, leave a comment and we'll try to keep each other on track!

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One last thing in this never ending post...

Mark your calendars for the Frei Spring Event

Friday, March 19

5:00 - 8:00 PM

and

Saturday, March 20

11:00 - 4:00 PM

Hans & Marina will graciously open their home to several artists and local small business owners that share a love for creativity and the environment. I will give more details in a separate post. See you there!

To learn more about Marina please click here.

And to learn more about the event they are hosting please click here!

delightfully,

Monica