Monday, November 22, 2010

A Clarification and a Thank You...

Where better to begin than to say 
thank you 
to each of you dear souls who have taken the time
 to lift me up here and send me words of support.
I love you all, and thank you seems like such an inadequate word sometimes.

In my previous post, I communicated
the frustration I have been feeling,
 with the pressure I have placed on myself of late.

I realize now that due to omitting some key facts,
I mistakenly led you to believe that
 it was blogging which was taking a toll on me.

Not so.


Without divulging too much just yet,
I am being presented with opportunities to take my
 photography to a much higher level.
There are very real opportunities available to me which
 could lead to something big.

But....
{there's always one of those....}

I am acutely aware that right now,
I don't have the proper equipment to get
the job done on a professional level.
When you are shooting interiors for editorial work,
you need more than just an entry level DSLR and kit lens.

And right now? Can't afford to upgrade.

And renting equipment?
A viable option, but only if it comes with a helper
to come along and help me figure it out.

Remember what I cryptically alluded to in my last post?

Do you ever feel like your opportunities and ambitions
exceed your talents and abilities?
( or in this case, equipment)

Hence my dilemma.

Lots to think and pray about.
I tend to believe that if I'm being offered these things now,
that the opportunities
 will likely be available once I upgrade my equipment.

Or maybe not.
But that's where trust and belief comes in.

Trust in God and belief in myself.
And some days, I don't know which is harder.
Usually the latter.

Back to work now.
Have a beautiful week, my beautiful friends!



68 comments:

  1. Just a suggestion but I think you can rent cameras and lenses -- that's what my pro-am wedding photographer did. Wishing you the best and congrats on being offered this opportunity. :-)

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  2. Go with your gut instinct Anne and I'm sure whatever it that instinct is will lead you in the right direction :-)

    Jem xXx

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  3. can you rent equipment such as lighting?? The professionls do it all the time...also you will get better with practice. how do you think the pros started....from the bottom my dear just as you will and can do...all the best..be grateful that someone believes in your abilities to even ask you. go for it!!!!!

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  4. Just a thought, but why has this opportunity come to you? Is it because others involved have seen your photos and been impressed? If so, then what you do must be good enough already. xx

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  5. That is exciting!!! & money...really stinks! :) I will say a little prayer that it all gets worked out!

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  6. Praying you find peace in this Anne. I would probably buy what I needed but you just bought a house I know.

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  7. i can "hear" the pain in your words on making the right decision. i would tell you beg, borrow and don't steal - perhaps renting equipment. do not let this opportunity pass you by and look back in ten years and say "why did i not do something"!!!! do it for yourself. go for your dreams.....
    that is what i have always told my children and so far, so good!!!!
    hugs and more
    peggy

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  8. Is this like the movie ~ Field of Dreams ~ "If you build it, they will come!" Keeping you in Thoughts & Prayer xox

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  9. Anne...

    God ALWAYS makes a WAY when there seems to be no way. Trust it! Believe it!

    Many years ago when I was a young bride I longed to have a sewing machine. I wanted one sooo terribly bad and yet the truly meager income between my college attending hubby and I just couldn't swing buying one.

    One day my parents (my father was a Pastor) moved into a new parsonage and they were told anything left there by the previous owners they could have. In the attic was an early Singer (a 99K...one of their best machines ever made) and it was gifted to me. Today they still sell for big bucks.

    I've made much of my living sewing and creating over the years and it all started with a tiny black machine that ended up costing me nothing. God had a plan and it was as simple as that. He knew I would one day work with my hands and that machine would mark a big chance in my life.

    The talent was there to create...and through some miracle (even though to others it may sound like NOTHING!) I was given an opportunity to begin the long journey that has taken me to where I am today.

    GOD WILL MAKE A WAY!

    Love to you~

    Rebecca

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  10. hey .. i have some of those lights on the stand with the folding silver umbrella thingy ..2 silver umbrella thingies - one folding, adjustable stand .. holler if you are interested ..

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  11. I say go for it and 'Make' it happen...I know you are probably saying I don't understand, well I believe that if you say 'yes' and go forward, be brave, be fearless, say "what do I have to lose?" If you don't do this then it will never happen and if you do it there is a chance it can happen BIG!

    Put one foot in front of the other...do not look left, do not look right and do not look back...look forward.

    I will keep you in my prayers. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving.

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  12. Hello Gorgeous!

    Sending prayers your way that opportunities will present themselves so that you are able to follow your dreams...I just know they will!

    Have a fabulous week Sweet Friend and Happy Thanksgiviing!!

    xoxo
    Karyn

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  13. This is what I classify as a "good problem." One that is going to need His provision and your faith... and it is celebrating the fact that you are using your God given talents...
    Praying for you Anne!

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  14. This weekend I had a "revelation" of sorts for me but I think I should share it with you. "Trusting in God means there are no missed opportunities, just opportunities" now, if that is helpful to you, that's between you and God, but pray with it. I'll say a prayer for you.

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  15. Don't give up! Keep praying and living fearlessly. I see doors open just in this post. Think on renting some equipment, shop used, borrow and network like crazy. Call camera shops, get on photo blogs, check Craigslist, call local photographers in your area...find used equipment...atleast explore the option. Just keep following that dream. I know you have some other priorities over the next month. God works in mysterious ways. Maybe the move is meant to slow you down a bit and get you back on His time with this decision? Just keep your heart and mind open and remember not to force the decision or the timing. I think you have much to look forward to my sweet friend! Happy Thanksgiving.

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  16. Here is my two cents, GO FOR IT! These opportunities have been given to you because someone believes in you, and your talent, not the equipement you use or the better camera, etc...someone gave you the opportunity because they believe in what you are right now, and will you grow from it, YES, will you eventually be able to get better equipment YES, but the opportunity the experience is much greater then the wanting, and the waiting and hoping...so I say SEIZE the moment and go for it...with everything you have in heart that makes you Believe in you!

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  17. you know, Christmas is coming...and maybe you should let your family know that instead of things for your home, cash would be nice..hahaha, just tell them what it is for...or have a blog garage sale and list the things you have left from your booth, just make it a one day sale...so your not to stressed!!!

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  18. Grab the opportunity with both hands and go for it! Your eye and talent will prevail! I believe in YOU!
    Cathy

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  19. A small business loan?
    I recently turned down an opportunity because of self doubt and being shy. I have been kicking myself ever since because opportunity is what I have been praying for...and when a whopper presented itself...I didn't think I was worthy.
    Don't do the same Anne!
    If this is as good as it sounds...go for it!
    You are a wonderful photographer...
    have faith in yourself!

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  20. Listen to your heart darling...and God will help you...without him it is not possible !!.............go for it girl !! you can do this !!! love you Ria.....

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  21. If this opportunity has arrived then it is most likely God pushing you into another phase of your life. Do not let your concern of not having all the things that professionals who have been doing this for years already possess, keep you from grabbing hold of this huge gift. Life is a journey girl.....begin right where you are and leave the details to God. Put your arms up....the ride is much more fun.

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  22. Oh sweet lady.....Just a simple story to share with you.....When sweet Hubby and I started our business....we started it on a dime....hawking almost everything we owned to accomplish it....we worked HARD, HARD, HARD and were committed to succeeding.....Anne...you are bright and talented....trust your instincts....they never fail you. (O:(O:

    Xo

    Jo

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  23. As I read this post, two things come to mind. The first is this: If it is God's Will, He will provide a way for it to happen. You are already doing the right thing by trusting in him and continuing to pray ~ pray that His Will be done. The second thing is this: An opportunity came your way because someone noticed the work that you did and thought it was really good. So the good news is, that's all you need to start - just your amazing talent. The rest will come!! Trust God with your whole heart and He will provide a means for the talent He gave you.

    God Bless you my friend,
    Kathleen

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  24. Congratulations on the on the opportunity! First - your entry level DSLR is just fine as long as you have creative control, which your Nikon should. And, like others have said - rent lenses or lighting if you need to. Go for it!

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  25. Anne, I understand - from someone who hesitates but when she jumps in succeeds most times, from someone who doesn't trust in the Lord with all her might. HE shows us the way. Wishing you peace in your heart. Jennifer jennsthreegraces

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  26. Hey sweetie, do you know other photographers in your area? If so, maybe they would loan you their lighting and other equipment, and maybe even a camera. Renting, as suggested, is another option. Also, can you ask for a down payment from the customer and use that to buy some of what you need? People are used to a partial down payment for stuff like this.

    It'll work out, I can feel it.

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  27. This is where your faith of a mustardseed comes in. Just do it!

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  28. Hello Anne... so many different ideas coming at you... some say go for it, others say wait... once again, I will share another of my favorite quotes... "Follow your heart... it knows the way"... for me, I would rather put my time and money into making that lovely little house you just bought a home... a place to raise a family perhaps, set down roots... relax and enjoy life... I love the simple things in life... is this photo opportunity really, I mean, really something you want to do, even if money were no object?... remember, all that glitters is not gold... sending positive thoughts your way that you find peace of mind in whatever you decide to do... xoxo Julie Marie

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  29. well, i say go for it!!! rent some lights. practice and play. you will learn and grown with each shot. evidently they like what they see from you. you're a natural.

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  30. Anne, going back
    and forth as we
    have over cameras
    and photography
    courses, I think
    the question is
    do you have the
    knowledge needed
    to run one of the
    more advanced dslrs?
    If not, then rent
    the lighting and
    stick with your
    trusty Nikon ~
    it has worked so
    beautifully for you!
    However, if you
    understand how to
    run off the auto
    settings and use
    manual mode, then
    rent the whole kit
    and kaboodle and GO
    FOR it! I sense your
    weariness. Internal
    struggles do that.
    You need to play hooky
    for a day!!!
    xx Suzanne

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  31. Once you have the equipment, your confidence will soar... that feels obvious to me. Perhaps the saying should be "beg, borrow, or barter." I bet someone out there has a need you can fill in exchange for what you require to boost your skills & confidence. Keep talking, Anne, keep listening (esp to your heart.)

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  32. Your photos are some of the best I've ever seen. It's easy to say "go for it" but you need to feel it in your heart. Keep praying about it and the answers will be there.

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  33. Another thing to think about....
    We all have to start somewhere. And we usually learn more "on the job" than we do in any school setting.
    In my years of Marketing, I have learned so much from just diving in and going for it. Yes, I have felt less qualified or in over my head a few times along the way. But I dove in and did my best and learned from my experiences.
    Now, I have 12 years under my belt and feel like I can take on anything!
    I get so frustrated and start to feel inadequate or under-qualified a lot looking for a job, but then I have an interview and it recharges me. I hear myself and get so excited knowing that I really do know what I'm doing and can really grow a business!

    SO, the moral of this story is....

    If you don't just dive in and try your best, you won't learn or grow.

    If people have faith in you, you can have faith in yourself. If you make mistakes, you'll learn from them. AND everyone makes mistakes, that's how we grow.

    We all have to start somewhere!!!!
    Best of luck to you, I KNOW you'll do great!
    -Sara.

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  34. Oh Anne!!
    This is super exciting! I can only imagine how scary this must be.
    Can you imagine though, this could be the start of something amazing! Something you just love to do and are wonderful at.
    I hope you are able to make your choice and feel at peace with it!
    XO
    Kristin

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  35. This comment has been removed by the author.

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  36. Anne ~ perhaps the ones offering the opportunity love your work as is and will be happy with what you are already doing. Then, once you have gotten started with the new opportunity, you can afford to upgrade your equipment for future jobs?
    Praying for you to make the right decision. :)

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  37. I have so much to say about all of this...I need to call you! I am keeping you in my prayers.

    xoxo,
    Adrienne

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  38. First and foremost, trust yourself & don't let the doubts stop you. I would suggest bartering - see if you can borrow equipment from a local shop in exchange for time working in their shop or setting up a retail display, or advertising for them, or anything you can offer them in return for use of the equipment you need. (I'd love to have someone walk in my door right now & tell me they want something in exchange for creating some display tables for me.) Do you know anyone who already has what you need? Can you offer to help out a special event in return for use of the lighting, like shooting a wedding? You might also ask at your church if there is a way they could make an announcement (or print in church newsletter) that a member is in need of specific equipment or the use of it. This will work out for you!

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  39. Don't let a good opportunity pass you by! Take the plug, buy the new stuff on credit and pay for it when your checks start rolling in! That's what us antique dealers do all the time! We wouldn't be in business without inventory and sometimes we don't have the money to pay for it when we need it!

    Go for it!

    Theresa
    aka:TOT

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  40. Hi Miss Anne ~
    I just got done reading your past 2 posts and I really understand. It's so hard weathering the storm of frustration until you get to the next step. I believe it's all a part of evolving - a thing that is just so hard to rush. But in this case, I surely can see how you would need the equip. right away. I am a stranger to the cost of studio lighting, ect.. but if I was you :) I would definitely look further into the answer of the renting option.. surely it has to be available to rent that out there. Have you looked into e-bay or used camera stuff sites? And then once you feel comfortable with the process, rent again if something special comes up.. before you know it.. you'll then be charging your own equip. without worry. Do what is in your heart. Okay.. I need to get back to homework.. and some candy candy Trader Joe's oreos. And if you want to know how to rig your own homemade light box out of a cardboard box - let me know.. I haven't done it.. but know the instructions to do it. ;) So probably not good for professional work, but maybe for fun at home! Take care!
    Lara xx

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  41. Anne, you are one very talented and very smart individual. Take the plunge and the other will work out. If you let opportunity pass by, you may think the time is never exactly right. Live your dream!

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  42. ~here to support you Anne, whatever you do~

    and there are a few ladies I know that would be more than happy to give you their professional photography advice via e-mail...

    have you ever been to Kim Klassen's website? or Traci Thorson? very good sites for advice - and so is faded prairie...she's going places with her photography (she just announced that)

    wish I could help you...unless all you need is a new sewn camera bag or something (smile)

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  43. It's things like this that come up in life that makes me wish someone else could make the decision. Almost makes me want to be a kid again. Wish I could offer you better advice-except prayer and finding others who have experience in the opportunities you have. Whatever happens we will be here with you on the ride!

    Hugs,
    Jody

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  44. I BELIEVE IN YOU!!!

    Go for it Girl!!!

    This sounds exciting!

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  45. Just, "GO FOR IT"! You are smart enough and good enough "as is" with the camera you have. I think a lot of photography isn't always about the "camera" but about the person that is taking the picture. The shot, the angle, the lighting and that doesn't always have to be done with a really expensive camera. These kinds of opportunities don't along often. It is like when one door shuts and another opens. You gave up your space at the mall, that door closed. But WOW, just look at the door that now opened for you! Do me a favor a KICK IT WIDE OPEN!!

    Take care, Sue

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  46. Oh, Anne, definitely the latter. God gave you this opportunity BECAUSE He knew you could do it!! Details always have a way of working themselves out & you should know that better than anyone, after everything you've gone through this year to get that gorgeous house of yours.

    Just let go & let God!
    And we'll be here to lift you when you need to lean on a support. Love you, GF!
    ♥hugs♥

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  47. Just PRAY and you will get the answer! Whether it is to go for it or wait! Gotta get help from a higher power! We all have our opinions and love you and want you to be happy and NOT STRESSED! When I am making HUGE decisions... Praying helps me! Whatever you decide, it sounds like you have lots of us backing you up! Love you bunches! HUGS!

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  48. Anne, if this is something you really want to do, then do what you need to do to make it happen...it seems a door has opened to you, and we tend to never think we are ready when an opportunity comes our way! But obviously someone thinks you ARE ready!! XOXO

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  49. Hi Anne, I say if this is your dream then you need to find a way to make it happen. Look for used equipment on Craigslist or Ebay. Rent, barter or borrow equipment until you can afford it. Best of luck to you!
    Hugs,
    Sherry

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  50. Oh Anne, I'm feeling your dilemma. I'm really hoping this will all magically work out for you and someone can help you de-mystify the right lighting to use with your existing camera for your interior shots. You are so talented, I think the only issue that makes you hesitant about it is purely a technical one, but you have all the creative bases covered! Best wishes to you dear! xoxo ~Lili

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  51. Oh Anne, I feel you on this one. It IS a dilemma when you are breaking into photography!!!! I am all about "fake it til you make it" but with photography it can be so intimidating because I what you KNOW you could do with the proper equipment!
    What exciting news though! Very exciting! I can't wait to see what you come up with.

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  52. NEVER miss an opportunity! Believe me, I know! If you have no other doubts than the equipment issue, I'm sure a solution is in your future! WE believe in you and wish you all the best!

    Have a blessed Thanksgiving!

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  53. Anne- Bless your heart...your must be going crossed eyed from reading all these sweet and true comments!!...So I'll keep it short...
    If it's what will REALLY Make you HAPPY..then girlfriend..GO FOR IT...it's NEVER really about the details..( the equipment...money...) take the dive...You have SO MUCH TALENT...I think you would be great!!
    For someone who has been out of work for 8 months now I would so love to have an opportunity like this in front of me...but mine is out there ...I know that...just have to be patient!
    Sometimes we analyze and worry too much about things that will ultimatley work out just fine!
    Follow your heart!!
    Have a blessed and restful Thanksgiving!
    Tammy :-)
    JUNK WILD

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  54. I thought that was what it was all about and I am right there with you. Girl... if they asked you to do it, they have seen your awesome work, they love it and they WANT YOU! No fancy equipment included. You can do it with no problems. Now I should say, "Hello pot calling kettle black!" I struggle too. I am about to post some pictures I did of my first shoot other than my child. You will have to let me know. If I lived near, I would be your assistant. You have tons of talent. Go For It!!!!!

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  55. Hi Anne, It is a great opportunity and where there is the will you will find a way. We all doubt ourselves at one time or another, but if we want to do something bad enough we will find a way to accomplish it. God is there to help us and we have to believe in ourselves. From reading your blog I have all the faith in the world that you will achieve your goal and I will be waiting to hear all about it. Take care My friend. Happy Thanksgiving. Your Missouri Friend.

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  56. Honey, you know the answer, it's calling from inside you now. Hear it? God has put it there. Nesting is such a comfort, do that for a while longer if you want, but I have found myself making myself "small" for most of my life, and wish now I had the courage to take all of the chances I have been given. I always sold myself short. Don't do that. Live big, grab for the brass ring. Your comfort and home and loves will be there to cushion you and bolster you all the way.

    Warm Hugs,
    Sheila

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  57. Do what your heart tells you, and you'll make the right decision, heads are silly things, mostly to be ignored, lol. I know thats a bit of a sweeping statement, but you know what I mean. Big hug to you xx

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  58. Editorial work? Do it, do it, do it! Some way, some how all will fall into place. And as someone who works in the editorial world, it can be so very rewarding - tough - but rewarding! I agree with other posters, try finding what you need on ebay or Craigs list!

    Jeanine

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  59. Anne, I say go for it and somehow you'll find a way to make it work. Just be up front with your situation (discolsure, disclosure, disclosure), have faith, and take the leap. I believe in your talents and abilities, dear Anne. p.s. if worse comes to worst, at least you were up front and honey, learning experiences are valuable too :) oh, and don't forget to laugh, 'cause a sense of humor can get one through all kinds of situations (at least that's what I try to tell myself)

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  60. You need to REACH for your dreams. Look for a camera club (i.e., enthusiasts—my mom's a member of one). They're always upgrading to the latest equipment and willing to sell.

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  61. My suggestion..do you want it BAD enuf to take a chance on the NOW...and do you have the courage.?

    A short story..one of my grandsons, 20, wanted to go "see the world".,.Washington DC, New York...
    a long long LONG way from Lubbock, out in West Texas.
    He had the chance to do a road trip to take him to all these places..no one to go with...everyone in school or working. He decided to go alone...and that is just what he did. He is in NYC as we speak, having the time of his life. ...seeing things he will most likely never see again....things I've only heard about. I am so proud of him for his courage..and his desire to make something happen that he REALLY wanted.

    I know you are praying for help on your decision. I think you will choose the right way to go. Be it now or in the future, I do wish you tons of the best luck on your adventure.
    xo bj

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  62. Hi Anne, first let me congratulate you on winning the gorgeous pitcher! It will look great in your new home! I'm sure your life direction will become more clear after you're moved in. Just keep talking through it with your hubs; that always helps me; and of course, he loves pros and cons lists. Praying for you.
    ~ Julie

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  63. Dearest Anne,

    First of all missy, you sit down and write yourself a business plan, then you take that to the bank(s) and find someone to finance you. If you've got a situation where an opportunity is there for your growth, and if it's viable, it's hopefully just a matter of getting some documentation and a signed promise of said growth (from whoever or whomever has wanted you to do a large job). Another option is to search for viable venture capitalists to fund your growth (silent partners) and once you are set and able you pay them back/buy them out. Do it girl......use someone else's money to get your growth. If you've got potential customers, get em' to back you up, testimonials from previous clients help as well. I wish you the best of luck, now go get em!

    Hugs,
    Meri

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  64. Hi little Annie! My prayer for you is that all will fall into place and God will give you a peace to rest in Him as life moves. I wish you and your family a blessed Thanksgiving.
    Be a sweetie and gobble gobble,
    Shelia :)

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  65. Just had to stop by honey and wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving.
    Like Shelia says we all are praying things will fall into place for you and they will.
    Take care and love ya
    Maggie

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  66. Anne,
    Oh dear...This is not a problem for you! This is a BIG thing for you, an awakening to much bigger things for you :)
    This is a blessing to you girl, listen to that small voice, pray about it, and the answer is already there for you.

    I know you have heard your answer, and your direction is guided by a much big source than man... "God" And about the right equipment. Some of the most famous works in photography was taken with nothing better then a box with a lens, than capturing the "soul and light!" of the subject matter. You have done this girl, you have mesmerized us with your photo's of beauty.

    Take that leap of faith, a small job with what you have to work with will lead to a larger job with then the funds to complete that job. You also know that sometimes companies have the equipment but not the vision, and they may have you behind there equipment with your knowledge.

    Anne, don't let the lack of... stop you, use that lack of, push you forward!

    "Celebrate your brave journey"

    xoxo
    Blessings
    Dore

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  67. Oh yes, Anne, I've often had to turn down an opportunity for many different reasons. Oh, one always thinks about that saying that when one door closes another opens....or the other one...thank God for unanswered prayers...and every cloud has a silver lining.

    *sigh* If only things could just fall easily into place.

    Hugs to you! You are an extremely talented lady and if this opportunity doesn't work out, I have a feeling others will pop up!!

    Diane

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  68. Oh heavens yes!

    You know, not every pro starts with top of the line equipment, though. Depending on the job, a decent camera, and a knowledge of photoshop can go a long way.

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