So we did the thing that bloggers do... we took pics with balloons to celebrate something special, haha! But what better way to celebrate my Instagram account reaching 10,000 followers!?! To some people that might not seem like enough for a celebration, but to me it means SO much! To think that 10K people care enough about what's going on in my world, or are inspired by my pics, or whatever it may be that led them to click the 'follow' button ((and not quickly click 'unfollow' as soon as I start constantly posting beach pics in the dead of winter or mushy love posts about my husband lol)) really does mean a lot to me. I wish I could hug you all!!! :) Too far?? #sorry I probably had way too much fun shooting this look! The blue balloons were the perfect accessory to my new Poshsquare maxi. What's not to love about a comfy cotton dress?! The off the shoulder neckline, tie belt, button down front, and the long side slits made for such a fun look to go along with these epic balloons! 

What started as a way to have a 'creative outlet' for myself has quickly turned into so much more, and my bland words could never accurately express how grateful I am to each of you who are reading this for your support and encouragement along the way! Blogging is not easy. Being vulnerable enough to open up your life to the criticism of others doesn't necessarily come naturally, and it definitely isn't always sunshine and roses-- although sometimes it could totally seem like it based on the illusion of social media. However, when you decide to start a blog you are the one opening the door to that type of thing ((whether it be positive or negative)) so make sure you are prepared! Over the past 2 years of blogging I have learned so much about myself, I've grown significantly in many areas of my life, and I've had a hell of a lot of fun along the way! 

A lot of people ask me why I started my blog in the first place, and the truth is I really did just want a creative outlet for myself. Working as a fit model is awesome and I love my job, but fittings aren't exactly a creative environment for the model. As amazing as it is to see a designer's creation come to life from sample to production and play your part in making that happen, it is still not your creation. Call me selfish, but I wanted something for me. I needed a place to share my love for fashion and my experiences from working behind the scenes in the industry for so many years. I also wanted to share my passion for traveling and experiencing new cultures through photography. But mostly, I just wanted a place to simply share. Whether it be a thought that I've been mulling over for the past several months, or a tip about marriage ((which I haven't really gotten into yet...)), or just random thoughts about my faith, etc, I wanted a space to be able to express myself. Of course when you start doing something like this, you often wonder if your "place to express yourself" will only be read by you and no one else will care, haha! But even if that was the case, that was enough motivation for me... as long as I had a place to release it all!

Looking back over the last 2 years, I have definitely enjoyed having this place to release-- whether it be in the form of photography, modeling, or traveling. However, on top of all of that, I've met so many amazing people and have been able to build meaningful relationships! I've been inspired like never before from others along the way and I've been challenged. I could go on and on, but I basically just want to say a big T H A N K   Y O U for all of your support! I feel like I am just getting started in all of this and I am learning more about blogging each and every day! If there is ever anything you want to see/hear more of, please let me know!!! I am always up for suggestions and really care what makes you guys happy. :) 

Thank you, thank you, thank you and CHEERS to more cheesy balloon shoots to celebrate life's special moments!!

Xo- Tara

• Dress: Poshsquare
• Shoes: Urban Outfitters
• Sunglasses: Wyeth Eyewear

Photos by Zach Brose