My Everyday Featuring ... Anna Novak

[#1] Share with us a snippet of your story.
I am a Mama to 2 wonderful little ladies, Zoe and Lola and married to my very best friend Matt. We live in northern NJ in the town I grew up in, and we love it. We get to spend our days here while Matt commutes to Brooklyn during the week. Matt and I shoot together on the weekends that we have jobs, so we get some one on one time that way.  I am at a place in my life now that I feel so extremely blessed and grateful to be at. My story is layered and complicated filled with rebellion, loss and brokenness. And, in spite of all of that God has shown so much grace to me. I have been, and am constantly being redeemed by His LOVE.

[#2] What is your favorite part of the day with your little one[s]?

My favorite part of the day with my girls is just after dinner. Just as the day is winding down we take a walk to the park across the street or go to the lake, its really quiet and we swing or play until the fireflies come out. Matt and I get a chance to catch up on all of the ridiculous and adorable things the girls have done and we make plans for the weekend... and if it is the weekend then we definitely are going for ice cream :)

[#3] Name Instagram MOMS who inspire you.
Oh this is a tough one, I have connected with so many amazing, inspiring, creative and beautiful mamas on IG. I'd say Murr @murrjohnson because she loves lake living as much as I do and she is one of the kindest mamas I have met. Jessica @houseinhabit because she is able to capture the innocence and love she has for her boys perfectly and I love her sense of adventure. Kassi  @kassibacquet is one amazing mama of 5, I adore her style and love for her family, I secretly wish I was part of this family. 

[#4] What challenges have you faced in balancing motherhood and your passion for creativity?

My challenge will always be time and balance. Running our business and shooting on the weekends is tough. It forces me to be aware that every moment is fleeting, which, in turn reminds me to always be present mentally, not just physically, when I am with the girls. We all share a mutual love for photography and music, so bringing those things, as activities into what we do daily makes for really great time together. I also love having them "help" me with the things I am working on so that it isn't separate, and they feel more part of the things that we do or create.

[#5] What is a family tradition that you love sharing with your kids?

Matt and I love traditions! We have made so many with the girls, my very favorite is birthday berry picking. My birthday and the girls are all in summer and we live about 15 min from the most amazing farm that we can go pick from. We head up there and spend the afternoon in the cherry trees and berry bushes, get all sweaty and then.. you guessed it.. go out for ice cream!  Our favorite creamery is on top of a mountain that overlooks the Delaware River Valley...we spend A LOT of time there in the summer. 

[#6] If you could give us a peek inside your home - what image would you share and why?

Well, its not technically in the home but our out side deck is my favorite space. In the summer it is full of flowers and the rodeo lights are strung, the fire is going and the girls are happy roasting marshmallows. 

[#7] Share a photo you wouldn't typically post on Instagram but depicts real life happenings.

Ha I love this.. there are so many real life moments that I never want to forget. Sweet times of Matt with the girls being the best Papa, or Zoe and Lola laughing hysterically at some silly new game they made, or dressing up in as many costumes they can get on their bodies. This time with these beautiful little ladies is flying by and I try and soak up every second of it, but lets be honest.. its tough. I run low on patience and sometimes I lay awake at night wondering if I loved them well enough. But I pray for the wisdom and that my heart is full.. I trust that His love is enough and thank Jesus each day for his never ending grace.  

Be sure and follow @annanovak on Instagram! You can also keep up with the series by following @kelliandvanessa or #myeverydaymoms