number one : Instagram Itinerary

Turns out, one of my top five must-haves in life is Instagram. I was cautious at first (who am I kidding? Maybe for five minutes at the MOST) but now? I'm that girl that posts four photos in a row just because. They're mostly photos of my dog, but you know you love those too.

To celebrate this addiction, I'm starting a series of posts called Instagram Itinerary. Because like all English majors, I can't live without alliteration, wit and catchy nicknames. It might be weekly, it might not be. But for this first installment, I think we should get acquainted. If you're going to be coming here every week expecting tea, photos and a comfy seat, you might need a little background... :)

Growing up, I strived and strived to be one of the cool kids. It wasn't until I reached middle school and watched Little Women (you know, the one with Winona Ryder and Susan Sarandon? The one I watch about three times a year and bawl my eyes out? Yep, that one) and the film comes to the part when Marmee says to Jo, "Oh, Jo, you have so many extraordinary gifts; how can you expect to lead an ordinary life? You're ready to go out and find a good use for your talent. And see what wonderful things come of it."

I've lived my life by this quote ever since. Sure, the road has been challenging and unsure at several points. But one thing remains: live with liberty and live doing extraordinary things.

In the last month, extraordinary has maybe been my middle name. I'm saying this is in the most humble way; out of everyone, I was the one who doubted I'd ever do any of these things. But I did them and I thrived. And now, when I look back on these moments, I'm still in awe that it's me in those photos. I'm standing on the other side of things now, just so thankful for the people who pushed me to run, to show up, to do the work, to be awesome and to live. Thank you.

Now for the list:

I've been running. A lot. I'm that crazy girl who's leaving the house before the crack of dawn in running shorts to get to the lake by 6 am. I ran 13.1 miles on probably the hottest 4th of July ever to prove to myself I was ready for my half marathon coming up a few short weeks. Alice pushed me in the most quiet, patient and encouraging way. Plus she made us medals. I mean, come on. #winning

I attended Live Letters v.2.0 and was finally, after all these years, ushered into the cool kids group. I don't think my mouth shut the entire night, I was so in awe of the Mpls music community. I totally witnessed history. I'm truly blessed to say "oh yeah, I know that girl that started Live Letters. Yep. She's so fabulous." Thank you, Sara. I can't wait for 3.0.

I ran a race and got messy. Really messy. On purpose. (I know what you're thinking and yes, I signed up on my own accord. Yikes!) The Color Run 5k is really truly the happiest run on earth. Unashamed, uncontrolled happiness exuded from my rainbow-colored clogged pores. And I wouldn't have had it any other way. Much thanks and overwhelming gratitude to Eric and Steph for running, jogging, color throwing, screaming, dancing and brunching alongside me that day. I might never get these pink streaks out of my hair but I think that only adds to my new cool factor.

My list of dreams accomplished just keeps growing. And with every dream checked off, another two or three get added. But that's the thing with life. You keep growing, keep moving, keep doing. Otherwise, what's the point? We've been blessed with a life to live. And I'm going to keep living. Who's with me?

Follow me on Instagram here. Let's be friends, share photos and coffee. See you next week!

xoxo,
syd.
sydnee@sydneebickett.com
612.293.9096

Nate + Laura : Minneapolis Lifestyle Photography

Last November, I featured a little giveaway each week over on my Facebook page (ooh, yes, click here and LIKE me!) to thank my loyal and lovely fans for their support. As fate would have it, Laura won on week three and immediately emailed me to book their session for this spring. "I've been hoping for MONTHS that we could have a session with you" were the first words in her note. My heart skipped a beat and we were off and running.

I first met Nate, Laura's husband, in an English course during our undergrad at Concordia St. Paul. Obviously Nate is a million times smarter and funnier than I could ever hope to be, so of course we were friends and worked together on a few projects here and there. He's a teacher now and an outstanding runner. Remember my little running thing on the side? Yeah, Nate runs marathons and does triathlons like every day. Check out his stats here: Twin Cities Runner

And Laura? She's just about the sweetest, loveliest lady you'll ever meet. She's a teacher too and has such a heart for those little kiddos. These two celebrated their five year wedding anniversary (woohoo!) in June and when we talked about their session, they mentioned a mutual love for the outdoors, picnics,  playing music together, running and biking. We spent a lovely Sunday afternoon shooting these "love" images for them - so much fun that I'm sharing only the first half now... check back soon for part two!

xoxo,

syd.

sydnee@sydneebickett.com

612.293.9096

Emily: Minneapolis Senior Portrait Photography

What do you get when you mix a love for nature, music and lots of laughter? PLUS a true, honest passion for life? EMILY!

Last fall, I had the privilege of meeting Emily and her Mom for Emily's senior portrait session. We spent a gorgeous windy day together, playing in the leaves, jumping, striking a pose here and there and just letting Emily be her wonderful fabulous self.

It was such an honor to meet Emily - she has such an abundant passion for life, for people and for Haiti. Emily was a "youth" in my friend Marie's church and was able to travel to Haiti with her last year on a mission trip. When I asked Emily about the black bracelet on her wrist, she clutched it and said with a beaming smile, "I haven't taken it off since I was in Haiti and I don't ever plan on it!" It reminds her of that journey and keeps her mindful of how much more needs to be done to help. There is not a doubt in my mind this girl will change the world and make it a better place for people in Haiti and here at home.

A trip in the leaves, screeching in an alleyway and pretending to conduct a musical masterpiece - here's a glimpse into an afternoon with Miss Emily :)

xoxo,

syd.

sydnee@sydneebickett.com