Beauty - Life - Love

X marks the spot

2012-01-30T00:06:00.000-05:00

The boys love these blocks.......sorting and spelling.......putting them back in the box together and then dumping them out. These will be one of the items the I will hang on to for them to pass down to their children. My favorite kind of toys.

Presence

2012-01-26T15:06:00.001-05:00

This is of Katie and Lauren. Sometimes these images get lost in the middle of a gallery of big blue eyes and smiling faces, but they are always the ones that I go back to. Just a few seconds of checking in with mom for that familiar comfort. It says so much.

I need a break...

2012-01-24T15:25:00.001-05:00

I can't tell you how many times I day I have said that this past year. "I need a break!" .....from the noise, from the responsibility, from the cleaning, from the teaching, the directing, the cooking, the job, the remodeling, the driving, the organizing, the planning, the caring for, the doing, doing, doing. And I'm a doer! This past year has been extra hard.

Wow, it takes a lot to work from home. If you do, you know what it is like having 10 things going at once, while you are planning the next 10 in your head. Moms do it all so we end up feeling like we've been through the garbage disposal. We get up the next day (after nowhere near enough sleep) and we do it again. It's for them. Everything is for them, because they are young and that is what now is all about.

Most of us could certainly add to this, "I need a nap" "I need a vacation" "I need a raise" "I need someone to care for me".

So many photographers all over now are moms. Moms-with-Cameras, clickn moms, Momtog, and so on. We've managed to create this situation where we can be at home with our children until they go to school (or homeschool) and still run a successful business. We are living the same life of spreading ourselves so thin to satisfy all of these needs; feed the family, raise the family, be a professional, create and share our art to fulfill ourselves, trying to give 110% to everything.....at the same time!!!! Trying not to resent work (that you love) or your family (that you love). It's exhausting. I need a break from work to be with my family. I need a break from my family to get my work finished. Deep breaths.

Everyone is just tired. We live a simple life and we're still tired. It's probably the only way we are getting through it. Focusing on just the important things and pretty much shutting everything else out. There just isn't time. It's the way I like it though. I'm not concerned about anything celebrity, or what the folks down the street are doing or buying, TV is minimal here (Wild Pacific last night had unbelievable imagery, FYI). There are probably 5 channels that we all watch in total and it usually isn't even turned on until after dinner anyway. To quote my 6 year old in the waiting room of the doctor's office (quoting me) "Mom, this show is garbage."

It was.

With so little time, I will not fill it up with garbage. We like to play a lot, cook, read, to create something, to be OUTSIDE! Although the mud and dirt makes me crazy when it comes back in the house, we do it. We get muddy and look for bugs and find walking sticks, and climb tress. Good thing I am not a girly girl. I might be lost here with four males.

Are you feeling this way? Are you overworked and underpaid, exhausted but can't sleep............... all the while really happy and inspired, hopeful and appreciative? Trying your best to live in the moment? I am.

Drew's day off

2012-01-16T18:32:00.001-05:00

I got these from my teenager today. He must have thought it was my birthday because this is such a rarity around here. He is not a fan of being in front of the camera. I don't know why, looks like one handsome guy to me.

Nothing better than a newborn

2012-01-13T09:46:00.000-05:00

A boy and his train........

2012-01-10T14:36:00.003-05:00

Their Christmas Gift; Baby Avery

2011-12-27T14:16:00.003-05:00

Two for Tonya

2011-12-20T20:39:00.000-05:00

Maa Maa

2011-12-09T15:05:00.001-05:00

I could just eat this one today with his little chapped winter cheeks and curly hair. He calls himself Maa Maa now for McCoy.

Justine's family

2011-12-09T14:30:00.001-05:00

More Ava

2011-12-09T13:49:00.001-05:00

So many expressions and so sweet. Little Ava.

Ava

2011-11-25T18:19:00.001-05:00

Today was all about the hair. This doo cannot be denied.

One

2011-11-21T09:23:00.001-05:00

One favorite from yesterday with a lovely family in Clintonville. Off to celebrate yet another birthday today. Roman is six. McCoy's was Wednesday. Within five weeks here, we have all three of their birthdays and Christmas. I'm actually looking forward to the calm of January; tucked inside, with not a million extra things on the agenda.

Dev and Nik

2011-11-15T20:32:00.001-05:00

Two of the sweetest little boys. Sleepy face just waking up ----------and big excitement over trains and silliness.

Proud Dad and Mom.

Trick or Treat

2011-10-31T20:19:00.000-04:00

Roman and McCoy, A.K.A. Mario and Luigi. This is about the extent of how long McCoy wore this hat and glasses. What a day we have had. Ear infection topped it. He was determined to have fun tonight and not miss out.

My candy passer outer, Drew. Apparently too big for costumes but kind enough to let me get a couple of these. I can't believe I got this in the pitch dark with only the porch light. Love this of him. Look out world......he's got it all......handsome, smart, kind, funny, loyal, honest, talented, interesting and one of the best hearts I know. Oh, some girl is going to take him from me some day.

Grant has a brother

2011-10-25T13:04:00.001-04:00

Reid Thomas; soft, squishy, calm, wide-eyed, agreeable, wanted and loved. Baby brother to..................

Grant himself; original, smiling, truck and dirt loving, boot wearing, somersaulting boy who, as you can see, will be a shark for Halloween this year. Love this kid. Love this family. Glad they moved a little closer.

Ornery

2011-10-25T12:37:00.002-04:00

(From a couple of months back - no chance to post)

My McCoy. He looks so big like a boy instead of a baby as I see him. Not even two yet. So ornery and independent and smart as a whip.

My Roman. You never know which one of these moods you are going to get. My big kindergartener. A couple of shots before he went to play baseball with Dad.

Baby bird lip.

Heartstrings

2011-10-23T00:13:00.000-04:00

My heart really needed this today....Pics with two of my boys at the pumpkin patch.

Something about being in an open field with a warm wind, mud on my jeans, wearing Drew's old snow boots, a last minute, let's go do this today, take our time, spend only $3.00 on the hayride kind of day.........makes me feel like I'm doing something right. Best birthday present.

They look like they need me, but I need them so much more.

Liv

2011-10-16T14:05:00.002-04:00

Beautiful like her mama. Has her daddy wrapped around her finger already. Lucky and lovely Olivia.

de Vries Family

2011-10-14T21:23:00.001-04:00

I so love this squishy baby love. Nothing feels, smells, and tastes like these guys. Luca is 9 months of round little boy.

Yes, it its October already.

Macy having fun with mom and dad. Nothing beats these simple moments for photographs and for making your heart happy.

Friends

2011-05-23T14:00:00.009-04:00

A visit from Amy,my best friend growing up and her family of 5 was a real treat a couple of months ago. We finally got to meet each of our newest additions, my McCoy and her Kaelyn born just a month or so apart. We couldn't get over her delicious cheeks and belly.

This was the day Roman had a close encounter with the corner wall from running around the house and ended up with a good cut above his eye. For some reason I couldn't decide whether it warranted stitches or not and she helped me to stay calm and ask a thousand times "Do you think he needs stitches?"

It felt good to have her here and doing what we do best - taking care of them.

Fourteen. Really?

2011-04-25T16:24:00.002-04:00

This is my typical teenager response when I get my camera out and in Drew's face.

So happy this past week when he gifted me with some genuine smiles and smirks. LOVE this ~~kid~~ young man.

Little Leah

2011-04-19T16:42:00.002-04:00

Leah turned one recently and I was happy to go back for a visit especially since the last time I saw her she was a teeny tiny newborn. She is as beautiful as her Mom, but looks just like her Daddy.

Big Boy Truman

2011-04-18T14:04:00.004-04:00

The happiest boy I've ever seen. Always full of smiles. This is his 9 month session and I'll be seeing him and his big sister Sage again in a couple of weeks for his one year session. Hard to believe.

You have to make time for a snack.

Lovely

2011-04-18T13:57:00.002-04:00

The Wiegand Family down from the Detroit area a couple of months back- all with their own beautiful shade of blue/gray eyes.

Corinne

2011-04-11T14:19:00.004-04:00

A beautiful one month old baby girl on a beautiful Sunday afternoon.

FEEL THE LOVE-------------

2011-02-14T13:11:00.002-05:00

All sessions booked between today Feb. 14th 2011 and Feb. 28th 2011 will be at the special rate of only $100.00 instead of the regular $125.00 for the retainer fee and also include a complimentary 8x10 of choice from the gallery.

Your session can be for any time throughout the year but the payment needs to be recieved with 5 days of contacting me to schedule.

Retainer fee covers time/talent only and all prints and products are purchased seperately other than the complimentary 8x10. Please click on INVESTMENTS on the website for more details.

Maria is ..........

2011-01-28T17:52:00.003-05:00

TWO!!!

Always a pleasure to visit with Maria. She sported some curls for the first time that I have seen and with those huge beautiful eyes, red hair and spunky attitude, she was just a gem.

Mama Kelly is beautiful too.

Just a moment of being unsure.

Wait for it ...............

After Basketball

2011-01-28T13:40:00.002-05:00

Pics of all of my guys in the same day - right in the door after Drew's basketball game last weekend. I gotta grab them while I can. Roman ended up with a special treat for hopping on the table and giving me this great smile. He gave me 5 seconds of his time and and I couldn't have asked for more than this face. The way to this child's heart is through his stomach - no doubt.

McCoy checking out the snow.

Drew's game face and Mac and Da Da.

My lovely. So big.

An accumulation

2011-01-26T10:50:00.003-05:00

In no particular order - a handful of some sessions over the last few months. I'm going back through my hard drives (that are bursting at the seams) and pulling a few favorites from each to share.

Enjoy these beauties as I have enjoyed spending time with them and their families.

Riley at 4 years old

Nolan before Christmas

The Chiang Family in their BEAUTIFUL home. Take a peek at Lillian's blog http://www.chinesegrandma.com/ for great recipes, great thoughts on children and family, and much more.

Kathryn at 4 weeks old

Little Eva

Ellerie in the sink

Little brother Eli

Baby Benjamin - this is my very favorite from this session. We all feel like this sometimes, don't we.

Evans Family

2010-11-29T10:42:00.003-05:00

I love the feel of this family. Getting ready to leave their old house and move on to a new one, we had time to spend an afternoon preserving some memories. Three beautiful children and lots of love.

Zoe

2010-11-29T10:11:00.002-05:00

The many moods of Zoe. So much energy and so much beauty in this little three year old girl. So happy to revisit their home a couple of months back. Awww.......barefeet and dandelions. We won't see those again for quite some time.

Alex

2010-09-18T11:08:00.004-04:00

Another beautiful senior here in Hilliard. We started at her Aunt's house and then walked around Old Dublin.

One of my favorites.

Amelia

2010-09-18T11:02:00.003-04:00

Little Amelia - So sweet and special and just one year old. I love the contrast in this first one of her soft hair and clothes with the rocky dirt road.

Two beauties.

Megan - The girl next door

2010-09-18T10:50:00.004-04:00

well........across the street actually. We used to be neighbors. We had a family session about two years ago and mentioned back then the thought of her senior photos, so I was happy when she contacted me.

We strolled around The Park of Roses at Whetstone and around Clintonville where she spent her elementary days. . It was one of the hottest days this summer with the actually temperature in the high 80s, but they said it was going to feel like 96 and it did.

And yes, she is gorgeous, inside and out.

Maria Take two

2010-09-18T10:41:00.002-04:00

A few quick posts from this summer. First up Maria - I love these of little Maria hanging out in her front and backyards.

Macker Bean

2010-09-18T10:31:00.002-04:00

or.......Beanie, or Mackerdoo, or Beanie Baby, Baby Mack, and so on. You know when we love them this much, they have a ton of nicknames.

This is McCoy last month when he was 9 months old.

I think my sisters will agree that this one on the bottom right looks a lot like me when I was a baby.

Cam

2010-09-17T13:22:00.004-04:00

10 weeks early, Cameron had kept his mom and dad waiting to bring him home, which they finally did. We rescheduled a few times due to the continually changing of his dismissal date from NICU, but we finally got to meet up recently.

Tiny little boy. It never matters how small they are. Their physical size never seems to affect their personality and willfullness.

I'm sending your CDs out to you today Michelle. Enjoy!

I'll be posting more this week trying to catch up. I've met a couple of beautiful seniors and lots of babies and their families. I have 7 more sessions within the next two weeks, which for me is a lot. Two more newborns, two families, a three year old, a one year old, and a 6 month old baby girl. Deep breathe - as my mother in law would say.

Maria

2010-08-07T23:35:00.003-04:00

I would consider this "the evil eye", wouldn't you?

Maria ( and mom ;) ) had already had a long day by the time she set her eyes on me and the camera. She decided she didn't like the clicking noise of the shutter and for quite a while I received only a head shaking "NO" and a pouting lower lip. I have never come across this kind of resistance before during a session and while I knew it was frustrating for Kelly and Tony, I just couldn't help but laugh about how cute she was. I'm hoping they will be pleasantly surprised at what we came away with. I just think with that gorgeous hair and face, everything is a keeper.

Miss Personality.

Dylan -The first boy

2010-07-30T20:25:00.005-04:00

A sneak peek for my friends Nicole and Aaron and beautiful big sister Taylor - because it's hard for moms and grandmas to wait. ;)

Can I play in the curtains Mommy?

2010-07-23T13:13:00.002-04:00

This is one of baby Mack's (McCoy) favorite things to do lately. He's as fast as lightning getting over there to the window. As most, he wants to chew on them, pull them down and roll around in them.

"Ok, just for a minute so I can get some record of this and those big eyes." Irresistable.

Recently

2010-07-22T14:58:00.004-04:00

A few of the sessions from the June & July ; not much time for blogging, so I'll try to share here and there in groups when I get the chance.

Some beautiful families enjoying the summer and each other.

Ella

Kaden & Audrey

Sage & Truman

The White Family

Claire with Mommy & Daddy

Big and Little

2010-07-11T00:46:00.004-04:00

My oldest Drew with my youngest McCoy. It took about 8 months to get a real image of the two of them together. Lots of reasons like "the cobber's children have no shoes", not a lot of light in a photographer's house (that just isn't right), a 13 year olds unwillingness to cooperate.

Mostly the first and the last.

These two are my look-a-likes. Roman is his dad's clone, while Drew and McCoy have a lot of my family in them. One with super straight hair, one with super wavy - but both with those big watery eyes that kindly smile at you when you need it. They are mostly calm, patient, independent personalities, but like Roman, need lots of hugs and connecting.

There is no name calling, condescending, teasing, or hurting allowed in this house. I've nipped it in the bud from day one when anything would ever start. When these three boys are three men, I want them to know that besides their parents, there are always two others that will have their backs. They are close and I want them to stay that way.

This looks like a good start to me for these two.

Childhood is calling

2010-06-16T10:03:00.004-04:00

That's all I think of looking at these images. It feels like pure little kid fun; running around half dressed, playing in the sandbox, jumping on the furniture, climbing on the dog, resting in the sunshine, reading in mom and dad's big bed, running down the hill, digging in the garden. I got such a nice sense of relaxed fun and room and time for enjoying all of the little things when visiting Grant and his family. They gave me much needed coffee, let me hang out on the floor and play toys, and walk around the backyard in my barefeet with a sweet little boy. Not a bad job.

LOVE

2010-05-27T00:18:00.005-04:00

LOVE-LOVE-LOVE-LOVE-LOVE-LOVE-LOVE-LOVE-LOVE-LOVE-LOVE-LOVE.............and so on.

My (Our) McCoy is 6 months old. Oh and how he has changed just over the last two months. The shape of his face, his beautiful wavy hair all thicker up on top like a baby pompadour starting to come in. Those eyes - huge and curled at the ends just like his smile. He always has a smile. A coy smile usually, when he looks away and then right back at you. Melts your heart.

He can be almost completely asleep and then sees one of us and will give a great smile. It's like he can't help it. He loves us and knows how much we love him and we make each other happy. It's contagious.

He has been a super easy, happy baby, and still is pretty much but is more demanding of our attention now. He wants love and to play and hugs and kisses and if you leave, you will hear his disappointment loud and clear.

He has two bottom teeth already with more coming in, weighs almost 20 lbs., burps loudly, slaps his legs on the floor when he is excited or mad, is a really good hair puller, almost always calms down when we sing "the itsy bitsy spider" (I think this is mainly because I was so exhausted and overwhelmed with life and moving when he was born that I was too tired to think of anything else and didn't change it up much) loves pureed carrots, knows when it is dinnertime, has only peed on us twice, is super impressed and curious about his big brothers, has a smaller version of the same birthmark on his tush as does Roman, talks himself to sleep, and is super delicious right out of the bathtub, and so on.

I find it so fascinating that we all have the same feelings of our children and what we would do for them and what they mean to us. We all feel this strongly about our own; it's really important to me to tell my boys that they are special. Everyday. "You are special. You, I love."

They are so special. All of them. Each of them to each of us. I get to spend time with so many families and I often think about that while I am there. These are their special children. This child is to them as my children are to me. I love to be able to give images of real interraction and those little moments that show this.

I have a lot more of him to share, but can't get my own personal editing accomplished. This one here though really tugs on me. When I look at this one I get a feeling of who he might become.

It makes me think of him as an old soul, or back to another time. I guess that's one of the reasons we love black and white so much. It takes it down to the basics of emotion, simplicity of tones and shadows, composition, etc. to tell the story. I feel that there is a story behind that image of my boy. I think of his life ahead when we will one day look back. When I look at it now, I wonder. When I will look at it then, I will know. I will know him.

I so love my baby Mack.

Keira

2010-05-26T23:21:00.003-04:00

I know how hard is for my clients to wait to see their galleries and I really miss having the time to be able to give some glimses on the blog like I used to. Every week, I swear I'm going to get something posted, but life takes over and it doesn't happen.
This is for you Aimee M. as promised! It was fun to see you all again and catch up. This was our third session spread out over a year. Looking forward to hanging out and seeing what else we have in common.
Look at Keira's blue-blue eyes. She was very aware and concerned about everything and everyone around her and wore a pensive look the majority of the time. It was fun to see her get really silly on dad's shoulders; dancing around and making faces at her Grandma.

A mother's love

2010-05-09T13:35:00.001-04:00

Happy Mother's Day to all of the Mommies I know.

Lydia

2010-03-18T22:11:00.003-04:00

The day after daylight savings time and we forgot about how her nap schedule would change. We had a couple of little breakdowns here and there, but with such a beautiful little girl, you can't go wrong. It was worth the long drive.

McCoy

2010-03-17T23:48:00.002-04:00

Priceless

2010-02-23T22:54:00.004-05:00

Dinner at Panera; $15.00

For him........... Broccoli and Cheddar soup in a breadbowl

For me............ Greek salad

To share......... chocolate brownie

A trip to Borders; $24.00

For him..........Student Planner & How to draw really cool things

For me...........The Words and Inspirations of Mother Teresa, Dinosaur Foam Creations (for Roman), Teeth, Tails, and Tentacles - An Animal Counting Book (For McCoy)

A date with your thirteen year old son with time to talk and listen; PRICELESS!

.

Lisa

2010-02-22T08:30:00.002-05:00

This beautiful little girl and I share the same name, or names rather. Lisa Lorraine and her dad emailed me a short while back about our common namesake and to say hello.
This is Lisa with her Grandmother on her birthday. With three sisters of my own, I remember the Barbie stuff well (fighting over them and having fashion shows -right girls!) and I'm sure that Lisa was pleased with these gifts. It isn't anything we see in our house of three boys though.

Here you go Lisa! I hope you enjoy seeing yourself on the blog. Follow your heart and follow your dreams!

Ella

2010-02-04T14:51:00.003-05:00

Snuggles with Mom and Dad. :) Ella has the prettiest peachy pink complexion.

Ella was unusually awake for almost the entire session. Andrea put her to sleep with some Mommy Voodoo Magic. More of Ella to come over the next year.

Maxwell

2010-02-02T10:10:00.002-05:00

Surrounded by love - Max has a beautiful family. Our session was a gift for mom from her sister and I was pleased to hear it was one of her best gifts ever. Happy to oblige.

To make you smile

2010-01-22T10:14:00.003-05:00

Couldn't you look at this face all day?

Baby Reagan is a fun one year old, on the go and full of smiles. So glad I can give these to you Courtney - hoping your gallery will make you smile as well and make up for your other "not so great" experience.

Happy

2009-12-29T15:58:00.005-05:00

This post will seem random as I've had it sitting as a draft for a few weeks until I could get back to it and just want to get it shared.

Thanks Tonya & Doug for this beautiful handknitted hat for McCoy. So thoughtful of you - not unexpected though. ;)

He's a big boy with a big head - not uncommon in our family!

Thanks to everyone for all of the thoughtful gifts and cards. It means so much to us that you all would take the time and effort to do so for us. We appreciate everything.

WHAT A BUBBER!

One of my favorite images from Christmas.

I had a lot of fun with my clients these last couple of weekends. Newborns, one year olds, etc. Such beautiful children. Thanks for letting me into your homes and share some time with you. I hope you find your galleries to be as pleasing to you as they are to me while I'm editing. I'll be sharing them soon!

I've had to give up on catching up on blogging everyone from the past 7 or 8 months. With the moving and the new baby, it all got away from me. I'm now focusing on getting the site updated so check back from time to time to see if you recognize any little faces that belong to you.

13

2009-12-29T15:56:00.004-05:00

It's officially official - we are parents of a teenager. How did that happen?

I'm actually really enjoying Drew growing into a young man. Our conversations are more complex and his personality, which has always been strongly evident, adds so much to our family.

This is of course the "I'm really too cool to stand here while you take my picture look, but what you don't see is the part of the thirteen year old that I really love; the part that likes pajamas days, to watch little kid shows with his brother, to be tucked in at night, and still lets himself be silly.

With these beautiful blue eyes, his heart of gold, and his confidence, it won't be too long before a girl tries to steal him away from me. TRIES, I said. It's a good thing I have three so when one leaves the nest I'll still have two baby birds to take care of. Even with a newborn, I am seeing the end to this stage one day.

Sometimes it feels like I can't wait to have free time, sleep in, and work without interruption but when I actually think of the house being empty - without their laughter, fighting, matchbox cars hitting the hardwood floor, footballs and basketballs being thrown in the playroom, hugs on the knees and neck, little voices asking for something to eat, saying "I've got to go pee!" and just generally calling "mom" all day long, I know I can wait.

How can you not love a kid who just wants a personal sized watermelon, rootbeer floats, a silly string fight in the snow, and to be allowed to stay up late to watch a bowl game and sleep in a tent in the basement for his birthday? With a birthday the day after Christmas, it's fun to do things differently.

The whole world in her hands

2009-12-29T15:54:00.004-05:00

Isn't that the truth. It's what it feels like holding your little newborn baby in your arms. For awhile, the outside world melts away; or atleast you want it to. These fragile little people count on us for everything which can be overwhelming, but Amanda seemed to have it down pretty well with her calming voice and mom intuition with baby Claire.

Congratulations Amanda & Jeff!

My McCoy ; One month old

2009-12-16T11:51:00.003-05:00

This smile melts my heart. It's a little less sharp then I would like, but with that bobble head going up and down and side to side and Roman right on top of McCoy and myself the whole time I was trying to get some shots, I was just really happy to catch this. He has such a sweet demeanor and I could look into these eyes forever (cross eyed and silly, or not).

Two weeks old............

2009-12-01T20:15:00.004-05:00

No time for words; just pics. My McCoy - two weeks old this past Monday. We're getting to know each other, and we're pretty sure it's love.

Alex P.

2009-12-01T18:27:00.002-05:00

Well, if you're a sucker for blue eyes, get a load of Alex. Killer baby blues at only one year old. Just a quick post - trying to catch up on all of the sessions from the last several months that there just hasn't been time to share.

One Week Old Today

2009-11-23T16:53:00.003-05:00

It's hard to believe that it has only been a week since he was born, but also hard to believe that we are already at one week. We can't go back to the first hour or minute so I'm soaking up all of the small stuff along the way. Too tired to think straight, but none the less in awe of what we have. I hear his little noises now, wanting to eat; will soon turn into the desperate newborn cry we all know. Roman is concerned that his hat his not fully on his head to keep him warm. He's my caretaker.

FOUR!

2009-11-20T22:48:00.003-05:00

Our Roman is four today! These faces, this personality, this little man makes our house full of happiness everyday. He is sensitive, loving, charming, silly, active, helpful, independant, obsessed with trains, cars, trucks, his big brother Drew and now his little brother too. My Roman Pie Pie, my middle child................. my family.

Yes, I spelled my own name incorrectly above-------need more sleep.

My McCoy

2009-11-20T21:34:00.003-05:00

This year has brought many changes for our family, but the one we have been waiting for arrived this past Monday. My little McCoy weighed 9 lbs. 6 oz. He's soft and beautiful and smells fantastic. We love him, love him, love him.

Roman holding his little brother's foot. He is completely in love and calls him "My baby".

More to come after a little rest and recovery. We've got another Birthday boy tomorrow as well.

Zacch

2009-09-19T08:48:00.003-04:00

Seriously, the last time I saw Zacch, I'm pretty sure he about a year old running around his backyard playing with his mom Patty and his Aunt Amy. Patty, Amy, and I weren't too much older than he is now. I grew up with their family as well as mine, and spent probably far too much time at their house; camping out in the living room and the back porch, helping Amy clean the house after school, getting ready for school or church in the mornings with all of the girls fighting for space at the bathroom and kitchen mirrors and taking turns with the curling brush to get our bangs perfectly feathered, poofed, and sprayed in place. I couldn't tell you how many Sunday after church meals I've eaten at their table as well as many other days of the week.

It was great to be able to do Zacch's senior session and get to hang out for awhile. Check out these blue eyes!

I'm working on his cousin Bethany's session that we did last week so her beautiful face will be here soon as well.

I hope it isn't as long until I see you all again.

Maria

2009-09-01T21:40:00.004-04:00

This makes me so happy because it's how I feel that we moms want to see ourselves with our children. The little quiet moments together, the snuggles, the warmth; the peace that comes with having them close to us. Such a favorite image. A lot of these are Maria with her mama Kelly. So glad to have this job spending time out in the grass on beautiful days with great people. :)

Their Girls

2009-08-23T11:15:00.002-04:00

The first and last images here are my favorites from this session with Alison's family from a few weeks back. We started out slow this morning as all of us were not feeling like morning people at all, but the personalities did come out though as these silly girls played and let me hang out a while. Blonde beauties just like their mama.

Isabella Jumping Bean

2009-08-19T19:55:00.008-04:00

Seriously, Isabella does not sit still for barely a second. Most little ones move around quite a bit, but I must say she is probably the most active I've seen. She just has energy-energy-energy and things to do.

Isabella is wearing my necklace here and at one point she wore her mom's as well. Whatever it takes to entertain them and keep them interested in something, especially with another super hot day.

When I went back the other day to deliver Brooke her CD's of the session, Isabella remembered how we played in her room that day and wanted to invite me in. She is a sweet little pickle.

Although you can't tell in the image I chose, Brooke is expecting and about one month ahead of me. I love it when I get a chance to grab a couple of images of mom and dad together because it's just not something we get around to after our children are born. I get to go back in Oct. when baby girl #2 will be born.

I'm working my way backwards through this summer and going to try to keep posting current sessions as well. Baby Maria and sisters Althea and Ruby are next.

Abigail is One

2009-08-19T19:34:00.004-04:00

I love this little face. I got quite a lot of sneers from Abi this time around, but it just goes to show that they are who they are and will be who they are, no matter what. Lots of softer expressions too which I always feel are beautiful and little glimpses into their thoughts. Even though we had quite a hot, humid evening to work with, we still had a good time.

Real happiness here.

FYI - the house situation may finally be coming to a close with a happy ending. Thanks to all of my clients/friends in your understanding and support during the past 6 months or so while we've been dealing with all of the mess. It looks most likely now that we will be in our new home and getting settled about 2 months or so before the baby is due. Roman was born 3 weeks early though, so we're cutting it a little close. We swear we're going to find some time tonight to find a name for this little guy. It's so hard by the time you are on your third child to come up with another name that fits into the mix and can stand alone as well. We're the kind of people that don't tell the name until the baby is born. I think it drives our families crazy, but we just can't spill the beans early.

Sweet Pete

2009-07-31T21:12:00.002-04:00

This is from a recent session with Peter who is now about 8 months old. As you will see, he gave us a ton of expressions and he just has the sweetest little face. Just hanging out around the house and on the back porch gave us everything we needed.
I have to quote Halle (mom) from her email after the session;

"It is funny how you can spend all this time picking out clothes and it just doesn't matter because all you see are their beautiful faces. "

It's true. Clothing doesn't really matter and that is why it matters. Make sense?

How do they do this so young? How do they know just what to do to make us laugh and melt our hearts? I never get over it.

Life

2009-07-30T14:15:00.004-04:00

I couldn't believe it when I read the date of the last entry. Life has been so chaotic lately and I'm so craving some calmness, completeness, and comfort. We've had so many months of crazy exhaustedness that life has been a fog of stress and anxiety.

We sold our house and are temporarily in a townhome for a short term lease. And while I'm appreciative to have a roof over our heads and a little security, I cannot lie; it stinks. Without going into details, let's just say my sense of home, and life, and routine, and family, has been swept out from underneath me. Working is fairly difficult at the moment as well, but I'm so thankful for all of my wonderful clients-new and old. I love to hear how excited you are to know our session is getting closer, and I love it even more when you tell me how much the images mean to you. I've sent out so many emails in the last few months having to say that I am fully booked up until Feb. Part of the spring and summer are scheduled as well. That security is so welcomed by me right now. You keep coming back and telling your friends and that just makes life sweet!

If we had a house ready to go to it would be a different situation, but the not knowing, not owning, in limbo phase has really gotten me out of sorts.

Good news - GREAT NEWS is- that we are expecting our third boy - Yes, three boys- in Nov. He is actually due on our youngest's birthday. Knowing that we have this little one on the way shortly is adding to the anxiety and feeling of needing to be settled. I know it won't be long and we'll be starting a new chapter. Can't wait.

So many images are sitting on my pc from the last few months just waiting to be shared. Hopefully, I will have something up by this weekend. The website is so outdated as well and I've been dying to get everyone on there from this past year. My list of to-do's is gigantic as I'm sure yours is as well.

I'm dreaming of sand between my toes and hearing my boys run on the beach - laughing and splashing in the water. Don't wake me, please!

Alexzander

2009-05-11T17:20:00.008-04:00

Alex was very interested in his feet during our entire session. Wherever we put him, he ended up rolling over and grabbing those piggies. He was very interested in his mom and dad as well. Lots of love here between them all.
This first one is priceless to me. You gotta love the attitude.

Zoe

2009-05-07T09:48:00.010-04:00

Lisa and I have been trying to get this session done since this past summer/fall. Finally it worked out with both of our schedules and I got to meet her beautiful daughter Zoe. I just followed her around the yard and the house for a while and this is how it turned out. I love how she is just doing all of the little things that toddlers do but that is what makes it special. All they need to do is be themselves. There is nothing better than that.

Ketchup

2009-04-28T17:10:00.004-04:00

So I've missed most of April here but it's just been impossible to grab time to put things up in as fast as I'd like to. If you read the last post, you'll know that selling the house has become a third job for me. This week we 've had 7 showings in 8 days. We're just trying to appreciate the opportunities that will get us to the next phase and where we really want to be - HOME. I'm so looking forward to a bigger house with space for all of us and our stuff - did I mention SPACE? We are on top of each other here.

I have so many plans for when we move and I'm so excited to style our home in a really fun, personal, artistic and homey way. I've wanted to do that forever and I've finally decided that I'm going to do it my way and be creative and not let anyone else's rules get in the way. Doesn't that sound like fun?

I've been picking up pieces of furniture and accents here and there and actually have quite a bit in storage. They are calling me daily - my eyes want to see their shapes and colors and feel how they make me feel. It's such a rush to find a piece that just feels like you and you know that seeing it everyday will bring that little cheer and comfort. If you are a visual person and also a little bit of a home body, you know what I'm talking about. I'm terribily affected by the things around me.

So here goes a catch up quickie post. Three mini posts in one, if you will.

Patrick: What a face! Patrick has that full, round, yummy baby face and body that you just want to kiss and squish.

I love the TRAV-A-LITE sticker--------you don't need much more with you then this.

Sage:

Sage and I are getting to know each other pretty well. This was our 4th session and we have more to come. We've had two sessions at her home, one at Griggs Resevoir and this one at Innis Woods. Our next venture will be out a little east to the spot where Doug proposed to Tonya - Dawes Arboretum. Isn't that a great idea? Leave to Tonya though. She is as great as they come and puts atleast 110% into everything she does. Most of all her daughter.

Sage gave us many expressions including the "bulldog" pouty lip and many smiles.

This is my favorite from this session and favorite of Tonya and Sage together so far.

Alex:

Jen and Jason are friends of a client (Jamie) who is friends a client (Darci). Whenever I mention a client, my husband asks me "Now how did they find you?" - and I proceed to list the 6 degrees from which they were referred. It turns out that my husbnad knows them both from work as well.

It still is amazing to me that just by word of mouth I've managed to build this little business in the past 2 1/2 years - with no advertising, other than a one time silent aution gift card to a preschool for Stephanie, mom of Ava, and friend of Darci as well. Now Darci has referred me many times over and has created sub groups. My Worthington group and from there, my Victoria Secret's moms group (they all work there).
Darci is the sister of Dara. Dara is married to Chris. Chris went to school with my husband and we met before we all got married. Dara and Chris's session of their son Ty was one of the very first sessions I did. They passed me on to Darci and it went from there. See how all of that works!

So I truly appreciate all of you giving me your support and sending your family and friends my way. I hope I"ve shown that I will take good care of them.

Alex had some fun in the tub. I love how they put him on his belly. He did like it, although it doesn't look like it.

He wasn't completely sure about me being there.

FEET!

Isn't this how we feel about our children. No matter what, where, when, whom, they will be forever in our heart and ours.

So sweet.

It's really startin' to get to me

2009-04-02T14:40:00.004-04:00

Our house is for sale and the constant showings are making our lives ridiculous right now. Don't get me wrong, I'm grateful for the opportunities we keep getting even with the way the market is right now, but I just feel run over by a truck at this point.
If we just had to tidy up and go to lunch while they are here, that wouldn't be a big deal, but the list of chores to be done to be competitive is massive;
Please humor me while I ramble, Drew is at school, Roman is sleeping, husband not answering phone.

make sure all laundry is done and put away
run dishwasher, empty
scrub shower, whole bathroom
clean all windows, mirrors
dust everything
clean up yard
empty all trash from rooms and garage trash can and in street
clean kitchen sink, counters, appliances
vacuum carpet, vacuum wood floors, swiffer
put out all new accessories, towels, pillows, soaps, rugs, etc.
wipe down both sets of wood stairs
buy fresh flowers for table (this is adding up quickly)
take all coats, jackets, hats, bags (for 4 people) off hooks and throw into car
take all extra food that does not fit into cupboards (for 4 people) and throw into car because we don't want to draw attention to fact that there is little cupboard space
throw toy bin into car
make all beds, straighten rooms, put away (hide) any personal items
straighten closets and cupboards
These things are difficult because we can't just organize and keep organize, there is no room here to do that - it's why we are moving! So we just start over each time.
open windows to air out - don't cook anything day of
put all business stuff away - again no room to stay organized so this is increasingly irritating when I have to come home and try to get a grip on scheduling, accounting, to do's, etc.

Most of the time I am here with my youngest and scrambling by myself to get it all done.

While we are doing this, we are still trying to make repairs to the house and increase potential. We thought we were done when we listed it, but know we still need to do some. I have two storage units that are full to make the home more spacious, we still need to replace the bathroom sink, fix the crack in the front window, and we're pretty sure we are going to finish the basement and add a 2nd bath.

What is really annoying is the feedback that we are getting is about the fact that the basement isn't finished and there is only one bathroom - well it states that online and in the print outs! Why are we all wasting our time?
I'm really burned out and just want to get my work done, take care of my family, myself, and my clients. But for now, it looks like it will continue. We had one showing on Monday, two on Wed. and now another tomorrow and one Sat.
We have to move; I need an office, we need a playroom, we need another bathroom.

There is a lot more going on here as well, but I'll get into that later. ;)

Thanks ahead of time for your understanding and patience with me returning calls, emails, and getting galleries up.
Also, thank you so much for your support and desire to work with me. I know this sounds kind of cuckoo, but my calender for the year is almost completely full! I have a couple of spots in Aug., Sept is open, and a couple of spots in Oct. That is it.

I was hoping to be able to get to another project that I am excited about this summer, but it looks like it will have to wait until after Christmas time.

Once I moved to Columbus, I started my business over in Video, shooting weddings. I loved many aspects of that; the motion of the image, the support of the music to tell the story. Family-movies are what I would love to get up and running along with what I am currently doing. I hope to be able to offer different packages of either just family movies, or movies along with still images, so you get the best of both worlds.

Alas, it will have to wait. I am excited though.

Let me know your thoughts about any of the above bits and pieces. I can hear you now.........."Just hang in there" "This too shall pass" "It's all for the best" "You are doing it for your family" "You are Wonder Woman!"

Thanks guys, I feel better already. :)

Dalen

2009-03-30T09:04:00.006-04:00

We met up on Saint Patrick's Day for our third session and Grandma drove in from out of town to join us. I love this three generation image above. There is so much more meaning when there is interaction and not just smiling faces looking at the camera. Look at the love in Grandmas eyes looking down at her Grandaughter. You would'nt see/feel that if she were looking at the camera.

We started in the backyard and then headed to a couple of different locations. One was just down the road and was a property that was for sale with several old barns and buildings on it. I could have stayed there forever looking in all of the nooks and crannies and broken doors and bicycle parts and boats. It would be a great spot for a senior or engagement shoot. Unfortunately, there was a no trespassing sign. Oops!

My youngest son Roman's eyes are one of my favorite things about him. They are just an unusual shape and very dark, like little sparkly almonds. So much of his smile is in his eyes. Dalen's eyes remind me of his in how special they are. The little ends scoop down and out like they are smiling too.

Beth ---- Senior Session

2009-03-24T19:58:00.002-04:00

Ok, this is a bit of a departure from my norm, but I have to tell you, I do really enjoy this type of shoot as well. It a place where we can be a little more funky and really use our surroundings.

Beth, her mom, and brother drove over from the town I grew up in and we made our way around this one and this is a little of what we came up with along the way.

This next one makes me so happy. I love everything about it.

Beth rocked this alley .........literally. She started playing and singing and it was really sweet to see her and her brother interact. You can tell how much they mean to each other and how much he looks up to her.

Little Lynndsey

2009-03-24T19:57:00.000-04:00

No, we didn't start off this way, but I just love the real honesty of this image of Lynndsey. We do see all sides of them daily. Lots of smiles, some tears, silliness, laughter, thoughtfulness, etc.

What's not to love about baby eyelashes and the outline of their face looking down at them - they way we always see them.

Princess?................I think so!

I love this one

Beckett

2009-03-16T11:58:00.003-04:00

One of my youngest newborns at only seven days old. He has a fabulous name as well.

The in between moments are some of the best. Kim and Andrew were just trying to calm Beckett before moving their hands away for the shot. I just asked them to stay right there -and isn't this lovely? I like it because when you try to set up some shots, they do look very similar to what we have seen before and their hands wouldn't look so natural here because they really are soothing him.

Kim looked so put together for the mother of a seven day old and her baby instincts were right on -- soothing him - getting him back to sleep. Of course, he was most happy when mom or dad were holding him.

This is for Dad - a huge U2 fan.
Hmmmmmmmmmm..........................................do you think he peed on it?

Of course he did! We wouldn't expect any less. Made that glass shine.

This also was Dad just getting ready to rest Beckett's head on the coffee table, but it looked so sweet just like this.

The End

The unexpected

2009-03-09T09:00:00.008-04:00

I didn't mind the drive up north to the little town where this guy lives. I had over an hour to myself, my music, and my thoughts - not time for that much lately.

When I came to the town, it reminded me a lot of where I grew up in Coshocton. The Main St. and courtsquare have that old time charm and coziness.
Laura mentioned that I would be looking for a door to the second floor of a commercial building, but what she did not mention was that a little white door in an alley opens to a wide, steep stairway - that leads to a huge 3 level brickwalled, wood floored, beautifully decorated, open loft home that overlooks that courtsquare.
It is a beautiful home and even with the first level heat going out the night before, we still had plenty of room to work with.

I really have a good time meeting new clients and working in different environments. Gustin is a handsome fellow and we have more sessions planned too.

Quincey has such a sweet nature and she seemed to want to be in every shot, or atleast close by. I have a lot of images that include her nose-tail-head-back.

I of course, on this day chose to wear the wrong shoes and ended up tip-toeing through the snow and ice that lay on the alley waiting for some sunshine. I'm tired of wearing the comfortable shoes, but winter is not over.

Abigail

2009-03-03T19:02:00.003-05:00

Mom and dad have been waiting patiently for a little peak at Abigail's session so I have to get this up before heading off to bed. She's a beauty like her mama and our second session together was most fun. I love my package clients and it's like visiting friends instead of work. Don't get me wrong - we work it, but we still have a good time.

Peekaboo..........

Mr. Boots

2009-02-20T07:30:00.000-05:00

That title is for you Nate! That is just one of the nicknames Elliott has been given in his first 9 months or so. We talked about how so many nicknames have no meaning but just come from love - and wanting to pile that love on them - and one name just will not do - they are far too cute and special.
Megan's love of all things etsy (i.e. - handmade, artistic, unique) was apparent throughout their home. This includes her own creations including a gorgeous origami mobile that I feel she could sell tons of.

Hmmmm.......why didn't I get an image of that?

I love this series of Megan and Elliott.

Talloulah has a face only a mother could love. Not true - she is bee-u-tee-ful.

This arrangement on the kitchen counter was so weepy and interesting. It also just happened to be from Nate and Megan's wedding. Isn't that fun that we could use it again this way? Just so long as you don't poke the baby's eye out on it. (That's for you Megan!)

Elliott really milked his naked time and basked in the undivided attention of three adults.

Be-Bo

2009-02-09T10:41:00.000-05:00

Be -bo...........that's what she calls her belly button. I think Riley really had fun during our shoot. There were tons of snow and ice outside but we were warm and cozy inside playing and jumping on the big bed - running through the hallway - climbing the stairs - and playing with tofu. Ok, so Mom and Dad are the only ones who will understand the tofu.

How beautiful is she?!!?!

I love her little heart pocket.

Magdalen

2009-02-03T16:06:00.000-05:00

Mag is family and when I stopped by her house on my way home from another session and saw her in her PJ's and little acorn hat, I had to spend some time. She's a princess in PJ's. I always love what children have to talk about; what they do each day, their favorite toys, about their mom and dad. I think they enjoy a new ear to fill up with what's in their imagination. So I listen and talk and shoot and somehow we end up with little bits and pieces of their spirit on film (so to speak).
Thanks for letting me hang with Mag - we really do love her and hope you love these.

Audrey & Avery

2009-01-29T21:17:00.000-05:00

Besides being beautiful, these two sisters were lovely to be around and so was their mom. Kelly came to me by way of a silent auction at the preschool her daughter attends. Another client had asked me if I wanted to donate a session to benefit the school and I have been wondering who had been the winner for quite a while now. I'm glad I could help out the school a little and give Kelly a good deal, but I feel like I am the winner ending up with these images of them.

It started to snow heavily as I was leaving so we scrambled everyone out into the winter wonderland. This is a favorite.

Yeddie greeted me at the door and I think I fell in love. I've always loved dogs, but I wouldn't say I'm a huge dog lover if that makes sense, but this guy was unbelievably sweet and he smelled so clean and I really really liked him.

I grabbed this one of Avery when she thought I was focusing on her sister. I caught her in the middle of something and love this sweet look on her face. To me it's thoughtful, quirky, a tad bit ornery, and graceful all at the same time.

Finley

2009-01-20T20:26:00.000-05:00

Finley, along with his mom and dad, welcomed me into his home last weekend. As always, I was distracted by the charm and character of an older home and had to bring myself back to our session more than a few times. Chris is an artist and has left his imprint all around them. I never know what I am going to find when I walk into a client's home. It's part of the challenge and the fun.

Looking at this one below makes me think about the old and the new. Beth and Chris's beautiful older home and this antique rocker with baby Finley looking out into the world. What is waiting for him and all of our children? Someday this will be an old photo that he may look back upon with his grandchildren and think of how so much has changed since he was a baby; and they will think of the present as the distant past.

With the inauguration this past week and all of the changes taking place, it feels like there is new life and breath in the air and we have a direction. I'm just very thankful right now to have our freedom. A renewed freedom. We do take it for granted when we are not constantly aware of the way many people in the world live everyday; what they go without and what they endure.
With all that we have been through as families, neighbors, communities, businesses, a country, a nation, and a world in the past few years, we deserve this. Hug your children, kiss your spouse, lend a hand, say a prayer, have an open mind and an open heart; it can only make things better.

Snowmen

2009-01-15T09:55:00.000-05:00

Funny Faces............

Nice face..............

Roman woke up from his nap grumpy and got some brotherly love to make it better.

Baby put your red dress on.............

2009-01-13T22:17:00.000-05:00

Sage never fails to give us lots of expressions; this is a favorite. I was glad Tonya had her Christmas dress hanging on the doorknob because I so often encourage the very simple clothing. I guess I like clothing either really simple or really special.

This was our third session together and we had to get creative.

Should we put her in a box?

Should we put her with a fox?

Could we put her in the sink?

Tell me please what do you think?

..................................................................................

It's a great feeling to walk into a client's home and see the images all around and know that what I am doing is really appreciated. I so often end up talking shop with clients because a lot of you are interested in photography as well. Tonya showed me her new equipment and I'm looking forward to seeing her work from time to time. They are very proud parents and send me photos and videos.

P Is for PETER!

2009-01-08T19:52:00.000-05:00

Peter is a sweet little pumkin that humored us for quite a long time while we moved him around and about the house. He's about 6 weeks old and still a tiny little thing. He already knows what he likes and makes mom and dad hold him with his head hanging way down over their arm (I'll have to find one of those and get it posted as well). I'm sure they DO and WILL get lots of of "advice" from strangers on supporting his head, but Peter knows what Peter wants. ;)

I spent most of the time ooohing and awwwing over Halle & Joe's furnishings and the style of their home. I honestly could've taken everything from their home and wheeled it right into mine and would've been happy as a clam. They wouldn't though and that sort of thing is illegal, so I instead asked for the secret (not so much) antique stores she frequents. Those of you that I have spent some time with know that I am dying to move. We have so outgrown our space and I cannot bring anything home that I fall in love with. Halle could very easily be a designer. I love her mix of old and new and unique pieces. I drooled (in my mind) over them.

Ok, back to Peter. Isn't he cute?!?!

All you need is love..........Tonya and Doug

2009-01-04T17:43:00.001-05:00

Just one from our session today. I'll have more later, mostly of their beautiful daughter, but at the end of our time today we grabbed some images of just the two of them. Makes you all warm and fuzzy - doesn't it?
Tonya, I hope this will do to replace the framed one in the entryway from years back. It just doesn't do you justice. ;)

FYI

2009-01-01T16:40:00.001-05:00

Wow! (I love interjections) We just saw "The Curious Life of Benjamin Button" and I must say my head and my heart are swimming as are my husbands. I love love love movies that have so many layers that you find yourself uncovering them throughout the next year or so in your own life. We only get to the movies about once every month or two, so we are pretty picky with our choices and this one was well worth it. It was fun to start off the New Year with something meaningful and inspiring and having time alone with my husband. Thanks to Nine Nine and Papa for "babysitting".
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I've just discovered that there have been problems with my email again, so apologies to anyone who has tried to get in touch with me over that last couple of days. I have not received those emails. Please try again!

-

Our Drew - 12

2008-12-26T21:55:00.000-05:00

When I say "Our Drew" I mean it; there are so many of us that love him. Twelve years ago on Christmas Night, I went into labor with my first son. It was and will always be the best Christmas Gift EVER.

A pocket knife, books, video games, drawing supplies, two cakes, family, friends, fun, silly string, dinner out, nerf ball fight, new jammies, and more..............

"Did you have a good Birthday?"
"No. I had the PERFECT Birthday!"
What more could we ask for.

(Don't ya just love the outie?)

Friends

2008-12-23T16:16:00.000-05:00

We got to spend a couple of hours with our friends Aimee and Abriella last week and with these faces, I couldn't help but bring the camera. She's such a happy baby and has the best giggle ever.

Like most little kids, Roman loves babies and talked about holding Abriella for days before we went over. Isn't it crazy to see YOUR little one as "the big kid"?

And this is what she will look like with hair. :)

Blessings

2008-12-11T23:36:00.000-05:00

This was a really fun and easy session and I hope I get to go back again sometime. Three children, so well behaved and charming. Missy and Antonio booked back in August I believe, so it was nice to finally meet them all.
When I saw this scale, I had to put Megan on it; especially since Missy requested that we get some baby rolls images. Too many late night snacks. She'll have to make a New Years Resolution.

This was a happy - dancing baby from beginning to end. I could have eaten her up like a cookie.

This face! Can you believe this face? She is so beautiful and very sweet too.

Kellen was talking a mile a minute about anything and everything; I'm told this is normal.

A break from jumping on the big bed. Oh the things we let them do when Dad's not looking. ;)

Anna just received her first digital camera. She's going to have so much fun.

Yes, they let me put the naked baby on the dining room table; even after she peed in the leather chair. That is dedication. Doesn't she look like a little Buddha?

Sweet Family - 2nd Session

2008-12-11T16:35:00.000-05:00

Five minutes out in the snow was all we could handle, but it was worth it. I love the little flakes of snow on Dalen's hat.

Rink a Dink Dink ------ A babe in the sink! Bubbles just make life better.

She had lots of love for Dad that day. This is Grandma's ring on her little finger.

She's just a little peanut.

Baby it's so cold outside........

2008-12-05T17:08:00.000-05:00

17 Degrees today - without the windchill factor. Roman has cabin fever.

Owen............

2008-11-25T22:56:00.000-05:00

Wow...... third session with this family. It never gets old seeing how they change. I got permission for one bare bum shot, but I am sneaking in two. Shhhhhh........don't tell Joe. Way too cute not to share. This time we really let Owen do a lot of things typically off limits, but mom and dad know it makes for some great memories. He got to play in Dad's closet, mess with the shutters, get in the toy bin, climb the stairs, and a whole mess of other stuff to make the day exciting. Best of all..............Melissa emailed me later in the evening to tell me that Owen took a 3 hour nap - woo hoo!

Big Boy............

We actually started at Old Worthington. Peek-a-boo with Dad.

We made time for a couple of pretty mama shots

Even time for a quick sleigh ride.

Three

2008-11-21T22:34:00.000-05:00

Our sweet Roman's Birthday was today. He's a big THREE years old and we had so much fun spending the day with him. Thank you - Thank you - Thank you God for this wonderful little boy.

Grady Baby

2008-11-17T20:39:00.000-05:00

What a sweetie this one is. Little Grady is the sneak peak from a couple of posts back. He is one of those yummy-smoochy-lovely babies that you want to take home; as a matter of fact, I asked if I could. Mom and Dad are friends of one of my other best referring clients - Kate. Hi Kate! Thanks a ton. They drove from out of town and I always so appreciate that. As I've been editing their gallery I've annoyed my family (this is not rare) by saying "See, look at this one- he's so cute, isn't he so cute!?"

I didn't notice his little argyle socks that match his hat (you'll see in a minute) until just now when I posted this.

A Windy Whirlwind

2008-11-12T09:09:00.000-05:00

Christine warned me that this year (our first session was last fall) little Sadie

would be tough to keep up with. She was right. We met up at the library and while it really is a beautiful place to have a session, it may not have been the best option this day. After hanging around on the staircase and the upstairs foyer, we spent a little time in the children's area. It didn't last too long though; there was a little too much running and screaming involved; you know kids being kids. We decided to high tail it out before we were asked to leave.

I hope you are laughing Christine! You were working very hard although for moms it's just another day.

Their girls are beautiful and just a joy to be around.

This is one of my favorites.

From what I hear, this is a rarity.

The storytime room.

We braved the wind and cold and headed out to play in the leaves. Hot Chocolate helped to warm the bellies and hands.

Little Sadie is completely fearless. She hung here contently when they let go of her.

Sisters

2008-11-10T18:38:00.000-05:00

Last year I traveled to meet this family at their home for our session, and this year they all drove up to see me. We had a perfect evening at Inniswoods to hang out and walk around. It seems as though it was everyone's idea as there had to be atleast 10 other photographers there while we were.

They seem normal enough at first, but when you hang around with these guys for awhile things can get a little crazy. I'm pretty sure that most of the shannanigans start with Dad. Michelle and the girls would probably agree.

Kate is first. She's the youngest and absolutely loves to be photographed. She makes it very easy. I loved this spot with the little wooded gate.

Abbey ~

Emma~

On the left is the shot from last year that we took to mimick the one they had taken themselves of the girls years earlier. On the right is our newest version. So now they have three. It was Dad who suggested that we do this again this year. When mom asked him if we were going to have to do this every year now, he said "Yes!" I made him get all teary eyed when I mentioned that they could each do this on their wedding day.

It was great to see you all again. I love my returning clients!