Chrysanthemum

When I was a child, I loved to read.
I'm sure that came because of my parents' love for books and words.
I used to read book after book.

We would take afternoon trips to the library, and I would come home with PILES of books. Many times I would begin reading before we were even out of the parking lot.

I remember hiding under my covers with a flashlight after I was supposed to be in bed, so I could read one more chapter of "The Baby-Sitter's Club" Or "The Saddle Club" (Apparently I liked Clubs?). When my parents would come in to check on me, I would fake sleep so that I could get back to reading (sorry mom and dad!)

One of the books that has stuck with me even into my adult days is a book by Kevin Henkes called "Chrysanthemum". It is the story of a little mouse whose name is Chrysanthemum. She loves her name, but then she goes to school and the children make fun of it. It's too long... it sounds funny... it almost doesn't fit on her name tag...it's different.

My mom used to read this book to me, and I identified so much with this little mouse. My name was long, and sounded funny, barely fit on my name tag... and it was different. I remember going through a phase when I wanted to be called Kristy. I loved that name. Then in high school I decided I would shorten my name and go by Dia (you know, like "day" in Spanish?). My poor mother. She thought my name was beautiful and perfect.

Now as an adult, I am grateful for a name that is unique. I think my name is beautiful and perfect. I am even more grateful for it as a business owner with a business that is centered around me and my name.

I have been in the process of branding and finding my own uniqueness as a photographer. And I am soooo excited to release my brand new LOGO! I have a wonderful graphic designer (Elise Hogue) who also happens to be one of my 2010 brides. She did an AMAZING job taking my signature and creating a logo for me.

So thanks Elise, for a beautiful logo.
And thank you, mom and dad, for a beautiful name :)