Using Our Talents - Shameless Self Promotion

“We must seek out that which invigorates us and engage it at all fronts. Art, music, literature, conversation, travel, nature—whatever it is that keeps the fire of our spirit bright—we must build our life around it; for, without our passions, the years ahead become a burden rather than a gift.”

― L.M. Browning, Seasons of Contemplation: A Book of Midnight Meditations

So.... I thought I would do a post of shameless self-promotion... it's what a girl has to do sometimes.. I have big dreams, big big dreams, and want to share them..

Over the last few years, I have really grown to believe in myself. I tend to be my greatest enemy and that does no good, you just waste time, and time is not something we are guaranteed. My little niece Emberly reminded me of that lesson more than anything. She reignited and reminded me if I don't go after all of my dreams now, will I ever? There is a fire a burning ember in my soul that is going to try to achieve my goals.

The pressure and negativity I feel tends to be internal, but that is something I work really hard on. With a lot of work on myself these last few years, I truly believe in myself and also have come to know my purpose in this life and what I am supposed to do. We are all given gifts and talents to share... Let me help you tell your stories, find beauty and make wonderful memories with your friends and family.

Below I share some of the businesses I have going on, outside of this blog and capturing my own life and adventures.

Past & the Present

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This business is the dream. I started it two years ago and I have huge, global dreams for it. It is a one-stop shop basically for your family history and for your present. Helping you preserve your memories. We do everything from Digitizing to legacy videos to custom family trees. I have goals of several apps coming out, family history language center for clients, podcast, youtube channel, etc....

Always Chasing the Light

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I have been a photographer for over 10 years and before that probably would have as well but couldn't afford the equipment. I have always found peace and the answers I need in life in Nature. Nature recharges and refreshes me, it centers me. I have been going into nature for peace for over a decade.

Years ago when I was experiencing some really really rough times, I took my camera out with me and forced myself to find something beautiful at that moment. In doing that practice and chasing the light of the day and in life I found beauty along the way. Always Chasing the Light are Digital Nature Photo Prints you can purchase. One day I hope to start a walking group and a course to teach others how to start capturing the light with their own cameras and phones.

Alisha Leigh Photography

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I have always loved to photograph people and capture their special moments. I am a family photographer and also photograph weddings, theatre events, reunions, etc... If you need a photographer to capture your memories, contact me.

Etsy Shop

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I have had an Esty Shop since 2013, but as of this year decided to spruce it up. My current Etsy shop features Wedding, Back to School, Hocus Pocus, Halloween, etc... printables and decor for your home. I am in the works of adding two more Etsy Shops, one for Faceless Family Portraits I do a lot of and the other for some Photography. The other two stores should be ready to debut come January 1st.

I am working on a new site that features my Design/Art & Illustrations and current portfolio all in one spot instead of on several sites. I am a Fine Artist, Graphic Designer/ Videographer, and Photographer and want to make it a multi-media site that highlights all my interests and passions. I also will feature Kid's Art lessons which I already do, but want to share the activities and skills and YouTube videos, as well. No link for that below, but that should be ready by the beginning of the year.

We are given talents to share them and to help others. I work hard to share mine, I have lots and lots of other family projects, family websites, genealogical organizations, etc... that I am involved in, but am trying hard also to take time for myself, breathe and relax.. it's all a balance. Don't ever let someone tell you can't achieve your dreams, it is something I tell myself every day.

Balance is hard but achievable, I still want a social life, friends, family, adventure's, stay healthy and exercise, etc.. in my life, but I know as well not to waste a moment and be idle, use it for the good and to help others.

“We are born with gifts and talents, which we discover over time through new experiences. Talents invigorate our lives, incite our passions, allowing our authenticity to shine. To me, nothing is more tragic than someone never taking a chance, never stepping out of their box, only to leave this world with a myriad of unwrapped gifts.”

― Elizabeth Isaacs