It is already the first of August, and I definitely need to put first things first. And for me this month, that means getting caught up on everything. I have never needed organizing in my life so much as I do right now.
What do I mean? Well, since the last day of school on May 31, I have shot six weddings; I then traveled over two thousand miles round trip to defend my thesis in Washington DC and spend the Fourth of July in Philadelphia. There have been a few senior sessions sprinkled in there sporadically like confetti, as well as a few other auxiliary sessions (such as a family and maternity).
There has been so much going on that other things–like, a lot of things–have fallen off to the side. My goal for August is to pick some of them back up, dust them off, and put them back on the shelf of my life. I want to spend the next thirty-one days organizing my life for more joy.
What are a few of those things?
1. VISIT FRIENDS AND FAMILY.
I have friends, I swear. My goal as I am reorganizing things is to spend some time with the ladies and gents in my life that matter. I know I have a cafeteria and RomCom night planned with two of my fellow photographers, so we’re off to a good start!
2. READ MORE.
Recently, I became the proud owner of not only one but TWO Simplified Planners (you will hear more about them soon, I am sure). In that process, I have also added to of Emily Ley’s books to my bookshelf (she is the creator of the amazing planner). Her take on life is amazing, so I look forward to diving into those.
3. PRINT NEW PICTURES.
There’s a pallet hanging on my wall; on that pallet hangs picture frames. I haven’t updated those since my first trip to Israel in 2013 (six years ago this month). Since I have traveled since then (and have taken some awesome film shots of my trips out east), I should probably update those images. Organizing and updating that wall is a must.
With one month left of summer, I am going to spend it wisely by organizing my life to emphasize that which is most important. I am going to relax and celebrate that while summer has flown by, it has been an amazing, and I am heading into fall feeling accomplished with a full heart. I am hoping to only increase that feeling with the month of August.
Kayla Lee is a Minnesota-based wedding and elopement photographer who provides services to elegant, authentic, sentimental couples who not only choose their own adventures, but also live them to the fullest.