Hello

I want to start the week off with a big hello, and a few words. Over the weekend I read this great post by Jennifer Flores in regards to where we are in the blogging community, and what the future might hold. I myself have not been blogging much less recently, I feel like I don't want to write/post just for the sake of it. I want to only post when I have photographed something I enjoyed doing(with quality pics), or post about a project I am really proud of. So much is recycled now, and I think it is really important to maintain your voice, and come up with authentic original content. 

I find myself almost annoyed looking at Instagram sometimes, feeling jealous and almost disappointed by my own accomplishments..... HELLO- that is insane! As we all know, sometimes that token shot on your Insta feed might have taken 10 minutes to get the lighting just right, or minutes of prop styling.... I am just being honest, don't judge- we have all done it!! I love posting pretty things- that will not stop. However, what I don't want to do is become discouraged by something that is supposed to be a fun sharing platform. Does anyone else feel like this? 

I also saw an incredible movie last night called About Time, and it has renewed my sense of appreciation in all of the little things, demonstrating how precious life's little moments are, and to remind myself not to sweat the small stuff. The most important thing to me is that my family has their health, and to tell the people I love how much they mean to me. Not who has bought a new pair of shoes at Kate Spade. I started a blog 4 years ago because I wanted to challenge myself to be original. A few months ago it really occurred to me how similar everything was becoming..... I mean I feel like every time I click on certain pages they are throwing confetti.... REALLY?? I LOVE a real woman like Jenny Komenda of LGN that is creating new original content on the daily. She literally blows my mind with her unique sense of style, fresh approach to what has become so competitive and clearly so unrealistic. That is also why I continue to return to sites like hers, I feel like it isn't a race to keep up with the Joneses, it is just a look into her creative journey as she documents and shares the process, without a hint of entitlement. 

Lately it has been more important for me to have real- in person interactions and let that speak for itself. I feel like this whole world comes from behind a key pad/screen these days, and it can be so refreshing to hear someones voice react to something you are saying.... I am driven to have more "real" contact with people, enjoy my friends, and what the world has to offer. I want to get back to my roots more, pick up the phone more- Are you all with me?? 

Below are shots of life and what makes me happy. Picking up books, hanging out with my sister, eating great food I have put time and love into making, being with my family and boyfriend, and living in an environment that is a reflection of me and not other peoples imposed ideas of what life should be!!

I want to know what your thoughts are? Do you also feel like this about the way social media has taken over some forms of communication and daily life? I would love to hear from you! 

Laura xo

Always Stay Graceful,

L.