Shannon Gurney Photoblog: ME...in a photo?

It's funny how changing your perspective can change your daily life. We create our own experiences and those experiences shape who we become. This trip to Eureka Springs was nothing amazing. I didn't jump from any airplanes or hike to the top of Pike's Peak. BUT, I left there inspired.

I spent some quality time with my family and friends, rested a bit, ate what I wanted, breathed in the crisp morning air, and soaked up EVERY last ray of sunshine. It was just what the doctor ordered...so to speak.

I'm even starting to see myself inside here somewhere...that person I was 4 years ago before giving birth to my two FAVORITE little men in the whole wide world. I know I was always there - I just hadn't seen, REALLY seen, myself in a very long time...even that double chin I've come to know so well is starting to disappear. That's enough to inspire anyone!

It helped that I walked into THIS store. What a perspective! I wanted to buy every clothing item, journal, sticker, and doggie bed in the whole place. Why can't we all live life thinking nothing but the best. As Jake and Rocket put it so well, "Good vibes are contagious." Amen to that!

I even got back to my roots. OR revisited them...by way of my mom and Karri...HA!

They say the waters in Eureka Springs have healing power. Whether it's true or not, I believe my life is different today because of my trip there. I had to LET GO a bit in order to make the trip. As you all know, I've never left my boys for more than a few hours at a time. It wasn't really my plan to do that. I'm not quite THAT neurotic. The opportunity just hadn't presented itself. Needless to say, I was a bit worried while being gone from them. I'm pretty sure, however, I missed them more than they missed me. Talk about a WAKE UP CALL!

I survived my time away and came back renewed. I can't wait to introduce you to all of the changes I'll be making in my photography business and in my life. Not to worry though, the changes won't be in pricing! :) Come back tomorrow for the first of many details...

I'd forgotten how completely gorgeous my mom is...I see her everyday almost the same way I see myself...running herself ragged from job to home to taking care of everyone else (including me)...

I hope she's as renewed as I feel today. She deserves it as much, if not more, than I do. I love you, Mom. You're beautiful today and everyday.

I really wish there was a way to get a good shot of Thorncrown Chapel without all the trees blocking the view. It was amazing. I'm sure most of you have heard of it, but it's just not the same as actually being there....reading Psalms while you breathe in all the majesty that is our Lord. God is good.

After all, he did provide me with the BEST of family and friends. People who love me for who I am...no matter the circumstance...

Don't worry, Karri. There's hope for you, yet. HE has a plan for your life, too.

Just keep on kissing those FROGS...

Prince Charming will be here soon.

I had a super time girls! Can't wait to go back!

AND, don't forget to smile...Life is good.

As you may have noticed, I've been MIA for a few days. I've been REALLY wanting to post to give a big shout out hello to all of you in blogland, but resting won out. We've literally been laying low for the past few days while on vacation in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. It's been nice.

I was super worried I'd be missing by boys and sad. BUT, I have to say, it's been NICE. Did I mention that? I do miss my boys. I just really needed the break from all things mommy. Does anyone else ever feel like that?

So, here's where we're staying. A little cottage on Spring Street.

It's called the Wishing Star. Pretty cool, huh. AND, since being here. I've even come up with some changes for my photography business. I feel refreshed and full of energy...READY to take on the world.

Life is good.

I'm getting to spend some quality time with my mom (YES, that's me!)...

AND, my sister...who I absolutely adore...

AND even our friend, Karri, got to come along...

We've been silly, nutty, sleepy, lazy, HUNGRY, and just plain ole' us. It has been perfect!

So, thus far, we've shopped for antiques and cool little bobbles...

We've gone cave exploring...

We've even gone GHOST HUNTING....Yes, us! Just look at the orbs we found!

There are some SERIOUS ghost stories regarding this place...they've even been on GHOST HUNTERS!

So, as you can tell, we've really enjoyed ourselves. Here are some more random shots before losing my internet signal all together. I'll check in again with you all in a day or two. Happy HUMP DAY!

Did I mention, I love my adorable sister?

Ya'll come back now. YA hear?