I was one of those annoying people in high school that earned good grades with little effort. I didn’t care about the learning, I was all about the social aspects of school. My teachers both loved and hated me. My parents heard lots of “doesn’t apply herself” and “if only she’d stop TALKING.”
When I got to college I expected things to come just as easily. I was shocked when they didn’t. I tanked my first semester of freshman year, and the rest of my college career I had to play catch-up. I was used to being one of the top students, and suddenly my scholarship was in jeopardy. I did buckle down and turn things around, but my self-esteem suffered greatly.
After graduation, I would have fleeting thoughts of going back to school to hone my knowledge on one topic or another. I’d start to look into it, only to convince myself that I couldn’t do it, that I wasn’t a good student.
I’ve wasted a lot of time being deterred by the lazy mistakes I made when I was eighteen.
No more. Now that I’m thirty-fun, I am not going to let these things stop me anymore.
A few months ago I applied to a photography program at UCLA. I took it as a good sign that it started the day after my birthday. I had my first class last night, and halfway through it I realized I could do this. I am going to do well in this program because I want to, and I know I won’t make the same mistakes I made thirteen years ago.
I am so very different than that lazy eighteen year old. I have the opportunity to make something of a hobby I love. I owe it to myself. I owe it to Annabel, because she deserves to have a mommy she can look up to.
Julie says:
Good luck Heather! It’s so amazing that you are applying yourself in something that you love to do and are so good at!!!
Nancy Smego says:
Good for you Heather. And we deserve good pics of your beautiful family!
Steph says:
I have no doubt she will be proud of you no matter what. Look at all you have already accomplished.
Brooke says:
Yay! That sounds like a great class! I hope you enjoy it! You will do great!! Good Luck!!!
And we look up to our moms for so many reasons, she already has TONS of reasons to look up to you!!
Annie says:
Way to go Heather! You will be amazing…wait…I meant more amazing than you already are! XOXO
emily bilbrey says:
amazing! you should be very proud! can’t wait to see what results from your new photo efforts. and of course new pictures of annie are always a good thing. (;
i recently got my head out of my ass and started up an etsy shop for all the crafts i’ve been giving away free of charge forever. isn’t it an amazing feeling to put thought into action and do something you can be really proud of?
best of luck to you with the program! ::pats on back::
and as usual, that photo of annabel is perfectly nommable.
cheers!!
CarrieB says:
I got very similar feedback at school. And lazed my way through my first degree with minimal effort. But when I went back to college to do a law degree when my kids were 8 and 13, I really busted my ass. I tried really hard. And also enjoyed it much more as a result.
You go, Heather. I’m sure you’ll do well, but either way Annie will be proud.
Fran says:
Oh this is excellent! I am looking to start a
photography course in September and also and Italian language course as we’ve decided to start a family soon and seeing as I am half italian, I think it is important that my children grow up knowing there heritage. But it’s also more for me and make me learn more about my own heritage. People assume when you tell them you half Italian or anything else that you know everything about you background, and I’m ashamed to say that I only know some words but I couldn’t have a proper conversation with family members. And that is pure laziness on my part.
I want my future children to look up and be proud of me. I’m sure Annie is already in awe of you. Just like Maddie still is.
Good luck in your new adventure, it’s going to be so good.
InDueTime says:
Congrats. I’m going to school in the fall. Nervous but hopeful. You’ll do great.
charlane says:
YAY! I took 10 years off between my undergrad and Masters. Boy was going back tough. My husband took 10 years off between high school and his Bachelor’s (He is working on that now).
I remember when I was an undergrad I hated those ‘Adult’ students. They always showed up with their assignments done, readings completed, and questions prepared. So annoying. I was hung-over, barely alive, and still in pajamas. When I returned to school I was the ‘Adult’ student and I could just feel how annoying I was to the ‘Kids’ in my class. I was 31, they were 21…those are a big ten years. In those ten years I learned the value and appreciation for education, and the determination to succeed.
I actually went to my “early” ( the 21 year old people thought 8A was too early to function, but 32 year old me was used to being at work at that time so it was not so dramatic for me) classes with street clothes not pajamas, and alert not hung-over.
It was way different and so very scary but so very worth it! Congratulations on making that commitment, you will make your daughters proud!
Katie says:
I know the feeling! I used to arrive at class and people thought I was their teacher. DOH! Was a bit annoying at first but once I got into the swing of things (and the gratification that came from actually putting some effort into my work) I couldn’t care less. I believe I could have done better at my first attempt (had I just put that effort in) but doing it now actually gives me more appreciation – just as you and Heather said. Well done Heather! Good for you!!!
Kate @ UpsideBackwards says:
Good for you! It’s much easier to do well at study when it’s something you really want to do and have a passion for. I found that when I went back to complete my second degree. Enjoy! And I look forward to seeing more awesome photos here
karen says:
Another string to your multi-stringed bow?
I am immensely jealous of all your talents and wish you all the best with the studying!
Jenn says:
Good for you Sweetie!!! You already are an excellent photographer so I have no doubt you will breeze through this course!
And Heather….as for Annie have something to look up to you for??? I can tell you this with every bit of truth….she already HAS sooo MUCH to look up too for!!!!
Sweetheart, look at all you’ve done since you lost Maddie!!! You started a fondation that helps many other families in their times of stress and need, you’ve spoke your truth over and over again and told your experience of losing your baby girl so bravely even with the Dr who is responsible for her loss watching you.
You are without a doubt one of the strongest women I know. Too be honesr, I aspire to be like you…to somehow turn my own despair and misforture into something beautiful and powerful and to touch as many people as you have;. You are gracious, kind and funny and have such a beautiful way with your words!! But, most of all, you love your babies with fierce passion and you fight for them with all you are and all you have!!
You are a wonderful mama, wife, daughter, niece and friend.Heather, I am honoured to call you my friend and I look forward to the day I can meet you, give you a hug and tell you in person, much like Maddie and Annie…..just how much I look up to you too!!!
roshan says:
Focus, focus, focus.
Kellee says:
That’s wonderful! I’ve been thinking about doing this very thing for a while now.
I lack your guts.
Good luck!
noL says:
Congrats! What a fun thing to do!
AmazingGreis says:
OMG, your high school years sound exactly like mine. I didn’t have to open a book for 4 years and I really expected college to be the same. This is where our stories change…I failed miserably at college, it was hard and I felt very unprepared. I decided to take a year off from school, famous last words, and I started working full time. I haven’t gone back, it’s been 11 years since.
There must be something about 31. I’ve been thinking about finally going back. I’ll be 32 in November and the thought of school totally scares the crap out of me, but I know that if I don’t accomplish this one thing I will regret it forever. I will never ever get the job of my dreams without a degree, so there’s that too
Good luck to you in your photography class, I know you will ROCK it.
woo222 says:
Good for you girl! Your pics are fabulous, I’m sure you’ll do fine. Whatever happened in college, even if you hadn’t graduated at all, isn’t a reflection of your worth, though. You are wonderful and special and good at so many things, don’t be ashamed of whatever happened when you were younger. You’re still young anyway. Sending you all much love. ~Susan
Erin says:
That is seriously awesome! I’m feeling all cheerleader for you.
Audra says:
YaY! Good for you Heather! Good luck and best wishes with your new program.
Jenny says:
Heather, you take awesome pictures. With the rise of digital cameras there are so many more pictures now. After a while, you start to see the same poses in most family shots, even the ones that used to be unique. So many of your pictures/ poses/ ideas really are unique. I can’t wait to see how your pictures improve with training.
Your description of student liffe could have been written for me. College was a huge learning experience, in more ways than the obvious one. It’s not on par with a photography class at UCLA but I am planning to sign up for a Digital SLR photography class at the local Y?MCA. I can’t wait to figure out what all of the new bells and whistles on my first real camera do.
Best of luck to you with the class!
J in eire says:
Wow wow wow… Fantastic Heather, my dad was made redundant at 40 with a wife and four kids and he worked so hard to turn his hobby into a business…. I LOVE being “the photographers daughter” (well it is Ireland)…. and I think Annie will too…. Sending the very best of luck your way.
Tam. says:
Rock on, Heather!!!
Sue says:
If your photography goes as great as your making of videos,,,it’ll be the best!! Have fun!
Lynn from For Love or Funny says:
This is so exciting, Heather! Best wishes on your new learning venture. Personally, I think you have a terrific eye. I suspect the photography course will be second nature to you.
Katie in WI says:
Yay! You go girl.
ClassyFabSarah says:
I am very positive that both of your daughters have a mother they can look up to – in more ways than one!
Sounds like a really interesting class though!
SuZ says:
What a beautiful photo! You, obviously, are going to do quite well!
Melanie says:
I will FINALLY graduate college with a degree in Early Childhood Education in December of this year, three days after I turn 29. I have two kids and it has taken me a long time to get to this point and I’ve done really well… but I feel a little guilty that I’d LOVE to go back for photography when I’m done.
Krissa says:
She has SO many reasons to look up to you! .. Looking forward to many more awesome photos! And good for you for doing this!
cj says:
congratulations on your decision and good luck! miss Annabel is beautiful!
Jen L. says:
That’s wonderful! Congrats and good luck. What a beautiful shot of Annie!!
Ms. Moon says:
I HIGHLY approve of this new venture. It is perfect for so many reasons.
Kristen says:
As many other readers, I have looked through so many of your pictures.While they are beautiful, they also amazingly tell so many different stories. I love the picture of the Utah sun shining in yesterday’s post. How did you capture that? You have made me motivate to get my new lens and get my old one fixed. And to start using my camera more on manual. I might look into a class too. have fun taking picturesof your adorable Annie. Her cheeks and rolls are so cute!!
m says:
congrats!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Heather says:
I am also back to school in my early 30s… I still marvel at how simple it is if “she just applies herself and stops talking”
Good luck with the course, I wish I could take photography, but sadly it’s not offered outside of the Arts degree at my school… and I’m heading elsewhere with my love of helping people through labour and delivery (midwifery college, ftw!)
Lora says:
Yay, good for you! Learning is so much more fulfilling when it’s a topic that fits into your heart space.
suzanne says:
Congratulations! I love your photos and I am so excited for you!!
Tia says:
I’m so excited for you! And I can’t wait to see all the beautiful pictures of Annie that will come of this. Hands down, you have the cutest model ever!
Best of luck Heather!
Allison says:
How wonderful, that sounds like a fun program, and something you will make really good use of in your life.
I often think that I could do a MUCH better job at college now than I did when I was 18-22. I did OK, I studied hard when I needed to and earned pretty good grades, but I didn’t push myself to excel at anything, and I didn’t do an “extras.” I really think there is a lot of the college experience that I missed out on, for whatever reason (too busy trying to be cool? Not sure, as I was never really cool). I would rock the house now, I’m sure of it :-).
Just wanted to add that I’m a relatively new reader to your blog, but I really enjoy it, and I find you and your family inspiring. To help me keep up to date on your posts, I’ve added you to my blogroll – I hope that’s OK!
Nikki says:
You will absolutely do amazing because your pictures are already fabulous! Annie and Maddie are definitely already proud of their mommy!!
XOXO from GA,
Nikki
Barnmaven says:
Heather, Annabel already HAS a mother she can look up to. That said, I’m a huge believer in doing whatever it is you need to do to meet your personal definition of success, and I have no doubt that you are going to be a superstar in the fine arts department!
Good for you!
Susan says:
How exciting for you!!
I went to school at age 32 to start the nursing program. First I had to take basic English as my missing credit to get my high school diploma. Then the pre-reqs.
Drove 1 1/2 hours each way (along a river with eagles flying, many days no cars seen early in the morning) and that was a very peaceful part of transitioning from home and back with 2 busy kids.
I ended up graduating “Outstanding Student of the Class” as voted by teachers and peers…I was so shocked. I didn’t have the best grades of everyone. And I asked why.
I was told it was because I was so dedicated and determined. I showed up prepared and excited…..and it’s true, I was.
And I still am. I am a Labor and Delivery nurse, now for 25 years, and still love what I do.
Go for it all.
Kate says:
I’m in grad school now, and while it’s hard when my husband is deployed it is TOTALLY worth it. I work hard while Collin is in school, and I play hard when it’s just us at home. I say GOOD JOB for proving, like i have, that just because you have a kid doesn’t mean you have to lose yourself in motherhood. My life is my son, however, mommy loves him even more when she can talk to adults for a few hours a day :P.
Alexandra :) says:
CONGRATS!!! But Annabel already has a mommy she can look up to!
Katie says:
You will be great! You take beautiful pictures.
Barb in Michigan says:
Congratulations ! You are such a gifted , creative photographer already. Move over , World ! Here comes Heather !
Jen @ lifelove'n'wine says:
Good for you, Heather! Keep us updated!
Mary @ Holy Mackerel says:
Good for you, Heather! Go for it!! I’ve always wanted to take a photography course. And now, I probably will!!
Marisol says:
YAY!!!! Congrats! I actually did the same thing, i just finished my first photography class and it was a BLAST! Have fun
J+1 says:
I would say that Annabel already has a mommy she can look up to. (But good for you, anyway.)
Susan says:
I am so proud of you, Heather! I finally finished my bachelor’s degree at 36 years old and then my master’s at 44 years old! Congrats on your decision! Your photos have always been so awesome!
Gale @ Ten Dollar Thoughts says:
Congrats, Heather. Once we reach the “fun” thirties it’s so easy to assume our days of dreaming have been permanently supplanted by the realism of workaday obligations. I’m inspired by your new adventure and I hope it turns out to be a wonderful decision!
The Suburban Housewife says:
Good for you!
I have been thinking about going back to school for a few photography courses as well.
Lisa says:
Good for you. You will do amazing in the program. You already take amazing photos I can only imagine how great they will become the more you learn. You will be a photography force to be reckoned with.
Enjoy the class.
Oh, and by the way, Annie already has quite the mom to look up to, you’ll just be adding to your amazingness.
kristeneileen says:
What a perfect idea I LOVE school. I love that tingly feeling when your neural pathways are reconnecting and you’re putting new experiences together. And you’re already SO talented – can I take lessons from you after your class? xxoo
Adrianne says:
YAY! That’s so exciting! I just (sort of) did the same thing. It’s just an informal class here at UT, nothing I had to apply to because those are like 4 hours a day, 5 days a week…no can do! But the class started last week and it’s been so great. I’m already learning so much and really enjoying it. I hope that you continue to post about your class so that maybe I can learn a little bit with you along the way! Good luck, have fun, and take LOTS of pictures!!
Skye says:
That sounds so awesome. I hope you love it! (but I hope you know that Annie would look up to you anyway!)
Stacey says:
You are KILLING me with your daughter! She is A-dorable! Love those cheeks
freckleonthenose says:
Yay, I look forward to seeing more awesome photos! And maybe you can pass on some tips to those inclined to just point & click.
Snickrsnack Katie says:
I am pretty sure she will look up to you no matter – but good for you!!!
Meg...CT says:
That baby is beautiful!!
Trisha Vargas says:
I am sure Annie will look up to you no matter what! Never doubt yourself !
(((HUGS))) from Florida
Java says:
Good for you Heather! I’ve always wanted to take photography classes too! I’m jealous!
I think you will do well and will look forward to your updates!
Gorgeous pic of Annabel!
Michele Wallace says:
What a great class to take, i am sure you will succeed with no problem. Enjoy
Michele Wallace
Ania says:
Heather, Annabel has a ton of reasons to look up to you already. I look up to you, and I only know you through your posts! Look at how much you have accomplished through Friends of Maddie, and for the March of Dimes. You are an inspiration, dammit!
And good for you for taking that big step and going back to learn more about something you love to do. I’m taking steps (baby steps, but steps!) in that direction as well. Yeee!!!
Good luck!
Lamb says:
I would have sworn that you’d already excelled in photography classes based on some of your fantastic photos here. I know you’re going to be the best in the class!
Nicole says:
Way to go Heather, you will do fabulous! I am sure though that Annie would be proud of you no matter what, you have all ready accomplished so much! Good Luck in your new class!
Jen says:
You are amazing and I know you will do amazing with your classes. I can’t wait to make you teach me all the fun stuff you learn.
Deidre says:
So darn cute of the Annabel. You give me encouragement to get going on doing things I love. And that has not been much lately!
dre says:
Heather, this is awesome! Seems so right up your alley! I love following your blog for the stories and cute pictures already, but it will sure be neat to follow your progress as you go along in your photography classes. Good luck and good for you!
Fiona says:
Good for you girl! I can’t wait to see the photos!!!
Fiona x
Megan says:
Good for you!!!!
Eunice says:
So awesome, Heather!
I used to beat myself about some lazy mistakes I made when I was younger, but I realized that I’ve grown so much since then. I’m not the same person I was 10 years ago. Nobody is! And that’s usually a good thing.
Good luck with your classes!
keri says:
Heather – LOOK AT THOSE CHEEKS!!!!!!!!!!!! She is SO cute!
Kristin says:
That’s awesome!!
I was the same in high school, always made the good grades, never studied and it bit me in the rear in college…. which ended up making me hate college. I still have a bad taste in my mouth over it.
A photography class sounds so fun. I think for some people, it just takes more time to find that one thing that they can really get excited enough about to take the time to sit in a classroom and learn more about it. Best of luck to you. I can only imagine what your favorite subject will be. *wink* Lucky little girl!
Jennifer says:
Wishing you lots of luck!! I feel like I wasted my college years–if I were going now I know I’d do so much better and take a greater interest…one of these days I’m going back too!
Kristin says:
Good Luck, with the classes, but the pictures you take just for the sake of it now are amazing I’m sure you’ll do excellent. And I have no doubt whatever you do Annie will think you’re amazing and look up to you, at least till she’s a teenager LOL.
mel says:
Good for you! You’ll get to exercise and advance your natural talent.
Shelly Bishop says:
I am so proud of you! I was the exact same way -perfect high school student academically and then went to a huge college (Texas A&M) and definitely wasn’t the smartest kid on the block anymore. I went back to grad school when I was 40 – and made a 4.0 – while earning my MEd degree. You can do it!
Glenda says:
Good for you Heather! Best of luck! Annabel is Gorgeous! and she will always look up to her mommy!
Rita from the Chicago says:
This is fantastic!! Congrats on getting started and good luck in the program. Being “thirty-fun” myself, I too went back to school and completed a masters degree back in November. I’m 8 months pregnant and a few weeks ago I walked in the graduation ceremony. I can’t wait to one-day show my baby the pictures of me at the ceremony…in my cap and gown and with him or her inside me. My husband, who is now 37, also went back to school and completed his masters last year. And we both agree that the second time around in school is much better…that we actually liked doing our reading and learning and devoting our time to writing papers and studying. So good luck and have fun!!!
Alison says:
Yay! Welcome to the California public higher education system. UCLA is lucky to have such a fantastic and dedicated photographer in their midst, despite your alma mater.
I’m so excited for you! I know you’ll rock those classes.
xoxo
Angela says:
Congratulations, have fun, and good luck!
vickie says:
1. good for you! you’ll be great in that class – no sweat.
2. i am in love with that pic of annie.
Mary says:
What a beautiful photo!
Elizabeth says:
Good luck!!! That picture of Annie is gorgeous!!!
Tami says:
I am so happy for you. Good luck and Annie is adorable!!
Hugs,
Vicky says:
Outstanding! Enjoy the class – learning can be such fun! That picture of Annie is so beautiful!
Kim G says:
You may not have done well first semester of freshman year…but I think at least 75% of your pledge sisters (including me) have you to thank for our helping us pass pledge test! ITB! haha!
Dianna says:
Are you pursuing a masters degree?
Great photo of cute Annie.
Patty says:
I love your blog- your posts, your pictures I am addicted. Congrats on following your hobby and yes you can! I did have to laugh a bit though, your post on going back and being a photographer and then your picture of Annabel will only load 1/4 of the way! ….probably my computer or connection…
Rhonda says:
You’ll do great!! Have fun!!
missy says:
I’m happy for you, but, Annie and Maddie already have a mother they can look up to and be very proud of.
Diane says:
She already does! But good for you for pursuing what you love.
Jessica says:
Wow, good for you! I am terrified of going back to school for fear of failure. And I long to do something that I love instead of just going to a job everyday. I think you have lots of people that look up to you already. Best of luck to you! You take amazing pics already. And I just have to say, you and Mike make beautiful babies. That pic of Annie is the cutest!!
Aunt Becky says:
I expect a portfolio of “Aunt Becky Is Awesome” shots when I come to visit. They better be beautiful and/or arty.
Mama Fuss says:
Very cool! I wish you the best of luck in taking these classes! I’ve always been a poor student as well (I like to learn, but I am a terrible test taker and poor memorizer) but when I took classes that really engaged me (I went to art school after several years in traditional college and earned a degree in Graphic Design) I did great.
Nanette says:
That’s awesome, Heather!!!
Angie [A Whole Lot of Nothing] says:
Pretty awesome, Mama.
Kristi says:
Good for you for pursuing your passion!! It takes guts to do that. So many people resign themselves to live in the land of “I would’ve liked to do that”. I’m proud of you for taking the leap! You’ll be fantastic.
Molly says:
Congratulations! What a great way to use your talents!!
Lori says:
That’s awesome! Good for you, I have a feeling you will do GREAT!!
Chrisie says:
Thats awesome Heather! Congrats and Good luck!
(((HUGS)))
giselle says:
Yay! That sounds perfect for you! Lots of people go through what you went through the first year of college. It’s the making up for it and turning things around that sets you apart. You will do great! And Annie already has a fabulous mom to look up to (not to mention an amazing older sister, too!!).
But most importantly, how is it possible to squish so much cuteness and adorableness into such a small package we call Annie??
Jenny says:
Are you in my head???? I was that same 18 year old. Almost exactly – except I DID lose the scholarship. And I’ve been kicking myself ever since. Not just kicking, really despising myself. I decided a few months a go I didn’t want that anymore. I knew I needed to go back for my kids, for my job (or to get one!), and mostly, for myself. So I applied for financial aid and reapplied to school, and I start back in September.
I’m so proud of you for doing it!! It’s nice to know I won’t be the only one juggling, gives me just a wee bit of comfort. Good luck, I am positive you can do it!
Amelia says:
I read a book recently, Nurtureshock, that expounded upon the pitfalls of being a “smart kid” – basically, when you tell children they are smart, they feel like a failure when they meet a challenge they can’t automatically conquer. I was this child, convinced in college that I was not smart enough to get into med school when I didn’t make it the first time when really I should have just pushed myself and worked harder. The book promotes telling children that their brain is a muscle and each time it meets a challenge, it is getting bigger. Also, we should praise our children for hard work and specific aspects of working hard, such as, “Great job finding a creative solution to that problem!” or “Nice job passing the ball this game!” I am endeavoring to do this with my child, simply because he IS smart and I know he can do anything he puts his mind to – I just don’t want him to give up when it’s challenging, like his mother did.
Sara@TomTheGirl says:
That’s awesome! I’m getting ready to apply to the nursing program here. I already have 2 degrees that I do nothing with, why not add one more? lol
i’m actually thinking of doing school part time while chloe is growing up, then go to work full-time when she starts school.
Amazing how differently we look at education when we are adults, huh?
xoxo
Megan says:
Intelligence and grades only go hand in hand in college if they are mixed with hard work…you can be the smartest person ever but if you don’t read your history book, you’re not going to know the answers on the test.
You will do fabulous because you know that now, and you are smart AND motivated this time around. I will wish you good luck, but luck as in the kind that keeps you from getting stuck in traffic and being late for class or forgetting the film for your camera. Because I know you have what it takes to be successful in this program, you won’t need luck for that
Liz says:
Heather – I read your blog all the time. Congratulations on starting your photography program. In case you want to combine your love of pictures with your love of bambinos, you might like to check out my friend Jess’s work. (This isn’t a promotional thing–I just honestly thought you’d like her pics.) She loves what she does and it shows in her work, just as I’m sure it’ll show in yours: http://blog.boston-baby-photos.com/
Courtney K. says:
Hello Luvs! (Heather, Mike, Maddie, and Annie :)). Heather it is so wonderful to hear that you are pursuing something that you truly enjoy! My husband and I have also been pursuing our passions for the last 4 years…er, well part time I should say, we also have 3 children that sometimes require our assistance!..it has been quite trying at times but we ultimately can see the light at the end of the tunnel! I believe it is NEVER too late to go after your passions, I am thirty-two, AKA thirty-ewww, so far I thoroughly enjoyed my thirty-fun’s much more!! I digress though, I read your blog every day and look forward to Friday’s especially, Annie is SUCH a star!! :)..You are such a strong, amazing woman and my heart aches for you some days for what you and your family have been through! I wish you all of the success and happiness in the world! Cannot wait to see some more of your homework!!!
nami says:
awww, this is great. u can never take too many photos, and u have such great models to capture. i’m so impressed with all the photos you’ve already taken, so can’t wait to see what’s in store.
oh – and of course, annabel’s pic… TOO CUTE!!!! warm & fuzzy all around!
C says:
Congratulations and beautiful shot of Annabel, but um…could you tell me where you got the adorable outfit she’s wearing? I LOVE it!
Melanie B says:
Awesome! I just turned 35 last month and am thinking of doing the same thing! I think a lot of mama’s are going back to school to pursue passion and a better all around life. Go You!
Nellie says:
Happy belated Thirty-Fun Birthday! I think it’s fantastic that you are taking photography classes because you have such a talent for it!
By the way, I saw a picture of Debra Messing in In-Style and i have to say, you are her twin. I hope you take it as a compliment (so sorry if you don’t!) – I think she is absolutely beautiful and to die for natural red hair!
Molly says:
Oh, great picture! You’re off to a great start already
Marti from Michigan says:
I too add my congratulations to you and your new class! You will do well, you’re already great at taking absolutely wonderful pictures!
Some day we will see Heather Spohr taking pictures of the President of the United States, possibly even becoming the top photographer for the President, be it Obama or whoever comes after him! You go girl, you CAN do it!
Lisa @ Early Morning Run says:
first of all, whether or not you entered this program, Annabel has a mom to look up to. Secondly, congratulations! I’m so excited for you and can’t wait to read about the program as you go through it! You’ll be amazing!
Katrina says:
Good for you! This is something that I’ve always wanted to do, too. (photography class) You already take such good photos, I can only imagine you will do really well with this.
Have fun, and good luck!
adequatemom says:
Heather, that is wonderful news! I know you can do it! I am making very similar decisions lately, so I really understand where you’re coming from and I’m so proud of you. Thank you for sharing this exciting news with us – I look forward to reading about your success in the program!
Rebecca says:
When I was in high school, I hardly ever attended classes, I had friends who had ‘jobs’ during study hall in the office and I persuaded them to scratch my name off the attendance list so it appeared that I was present in school. (I’m pretty sure I only showed up on test days in high school)
I easily made C’s throughout high school, which was good enough for me. When I made it to college, I actually attended every one of my classes and actually made A’s with very little effort. I graduated with a 3.8 GPA, which still amazes me to this day!
Liz B. says:
She already has a mommy she can look up to! You’ll just be adding one more reason to a long list.
Kimh449 says:
Good for you! How exciting a new adventure!!!!! Enjoy and keep posting pic’s of your sweet Annie!
mythoughtsonthat says:
Good for you!
And that girl, she is just such a doll!
Faith….Hope….Love….Peace.
Laura says:
Good for you Heather! I hope you really enjoy your class! Although you don’t need to go back to school for Annie to have a reason to look up to you!
eliza says:
Have I ever mentioned that you’re amazing? You will love this. You have a good eye for it.
pgoodness says:
GOOD FOR YOU!!!! WOOHOO! (oh, by the way, Annie will look up to you for SO many reasons, my friend)
Sarah M. says:
Good for you!! I envy anyone that can take great photos (which you do!) & they’ll only get better now that you’re taking classes. How exciting for you! Good luck!
Kristen says:
Wow, Heather Spohr! Good for you! I miss photography, but just bought a new canon 50mm macro lens – so hopefully I’ll get off my arse and use it! I took courses at AAU in SF (on line) and they were great, but would have loved to taken them in person..CA has much more to offer in terms of photog than NC. But, I am enrolled in culinary school and it’s a blast, but I miss photography so much..I hope you keep us posted!! Will you be doing only digital, or will you get to work with the darkroom chemicals?? I love darkroom, but never got to learn color in the darkroom, only B&W. If you need a recommendation for a good, basic 35mm (though I’m a Canon girl for digital) I’d highly recommend the Pentax K1000. My first camera was a Canon Rebel G, but as it is auto, I wanted something manual and the K1000 was great. Learned shutter speed, aperture and lighting tricks that the Canon would have done on my behalf. Anyways, best of luck, congrats, good luck and keep us posted!!!!
Kristen says:
oh, yeah..forgot to mention – not sure how the photo stores are in CA, though I’m sure there are plenty of them….I shop for all my photog gear at B&H in NYC. Friendly, fast and if you go back to NYC, stop by there. Their prices, I find, are some of the best…though since you are in CA, shipping may be a bit longer and a bit more $$…you’d just have to check into it. They also have a student discount section which may come in handy for you as well..not sure if you need to produce a student ID, or class schedule to confirm?? They may be like the Apple ed store and just take your word for it that you are a student. The discounts aren’t HUGE by any means, but every little bit helps. Anyways, just FYI, meant to mention that in my previous comment, but I’m thirty-geeeeee and my memory left me ages ago! have fun!
Kristen says:
last comment, I promise. B&H website would be helpful.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com
see what I mean by my memory??? it’s what you’ll have to look forward to in a couple of years!
Claire says:
I was like you at school except I didn’t do well at all. I barely passed high school and then jumped into the first job that came along. I started my nursing degree last year when I was 28 years old. I’m so mad at myself for not making the effort when I was younger. But it’s also been great to go to uni with a grown up and mature perspective. It’s hands down the best thing I’ve ever done.
Damaris says:
yay good for you heather. Now I’m inspired to take some photography classes too.
Krista says:
Good luck! I went back to grad school at 30; it’s a whole other ballgame than being an 18-year-old college freshman. You’ll be great — I’ve always admired the quality of the photos on your site.
Kayla says:
Oh wow Heather, good for you!! Yay, how exciting!
And um, you are going to kick ASS in that class. Aaaall the other kids better be scurred, for sure. Just sayin’.
Susan @ 2KoP says:
Wow, we had the same high school and college experiences. Breezed through HS, tanked my freshman year when I found out everyone at the University of Michigan had been an A student, but most of them had also learned how to study. I didn’t. I’ve thought about going back for a masters, but I like a different kind of learning now. I can’t seem to get enough. Good luck with your photography.
Claire says:
That is so cool!! you take amazing photos to begin with, so imagine how incredible they would be with some classes!
UCLA has some great art programs, i am going to be applying there for my masters in studio art (woodworking furniture design)
goooood luck!
Two Makes Four says:
Congratulations!! Good for you for getting back in school with something you love. Good luck!
Michelle says:
That is so great! Wondering what kind of flash you have there and if you’d recommend it? I have a Canon, too.
Kristen says:
If you enjoy photography, then you will love the blog below. it was voted in the top blogs of 2010 by TIME magazine. It features high-def pictures from the 1850-1950’s. check it out. I highly recommend it.
http://www.shorpy.com/
Ferg_e says:
OMG Heather! She already has a moo my she can look up to! Anything you do from here is bonus.
Sara Joy says:
Heather, I am a million, trillion years behind in blog reading/commenting, but I know you’ll still read this.
Do it. Love it. And be proud.
I went back to law school at thriry-fun, it was a lifelong dream and it was nothing like what I imagined. But it was entirely where I was supposed to be.
I’m just one more voice chiming in to say I’m proud, and you are totally doing the right thing.
Michelle W says:
I missed this post until you referenced it in your most recent one. That’s awesome!
Isabel Sweet says:
That’s awesome when you find a passion that ignites your soul!