gusto photography

3 months to figure it out

2012-01-28T12:27:00.000-08:00

Sigh...

Thought this baby was gone for good. (the blog)

I'll be the first to admit that I love taking the pictures and despise selling them. Maybe I should go back to just the hobby of photography. (Except for your wedding Brooke!!) Oh. And I hate computers. UGH! Google calls it "dynamic layouts" (Have you noticed that change in presentation on the blog?) I call it a pretty headache. Seriously, it's taken me 3 months to figure out how to log back into this and post something new. Maybe I wasn't trying too hard, but...Well. I guess there's a bit of catching up to do... don't know where to start, nowhere better to begin than with my little angel honeys Jack and Scarlett! Growing and changing of course, which I don't always realize since they're around every second of every day... (I've been cooped up since the middle of December because of foot surgery that doesn't let me drive!) I have no order or sense in posting these pictures, just some of my favorite from the last month.

This one I'm posting because I swear she has curly hair, and no one believes me. It's so fine that it falls into straight little wisps as soon as it dries. That, and Daddy doesn't like me adding anything to it because "she's so pure, she doesn't need stuff in her hair". No kidding, he's not even cool with a little purple bow barrette.

Cutie patootie can hold her bottle just fine by herself, which is why it's amusing that she won't most of the time. Already discovered she's adorable and thinks someone else should do it for her.
My man Jack, looking more like a young boy and less like my baby every day.
I had her sitting still for a second, until she saw her bottle on the floor and launched into her fastest bottle-hijacking scoot.
"Help! I'm in the tub with my brother!"
Think she likes the taste of soap.
On second thought...
Love that baby's eyelashes.
I don't get it when people tell me they look alike. Sometimes though, pictures don't lie.
Isn't it crazy that she has this many (plus more) shoes, and has never worn a pair?
Scarlett and Marshmellow. (Scarlett on the left) :)
Okay. Had to post this, because I'm linking this post to my sister's facebook page and I know she'll have to see it... She's sooo grossed out by my foot, by the fact that they cut into it on both sides of my toe. Apparently she thinks it looks like they were just going to cut that entire side of my foot off. Ha! And this is after 7 weeks of healing~ what a baby!

And that about sums it up! Hope everyone is getting along... not sick like everyone at my house. Winter can't be over soon enough if you ask me! Bring on the sun!

Rock the Runway

2011-11-13T18:48:00.000-08:00

It's always a good challenge to have something completely out of my normal photo setting. This was one of them. Rock the Runway is becoming an annual fundraiser for local (Fond du Lac) schools' music programs. Together this year, the Renaissance Salon and Spa, Benessere Salon and Spa, and Saavy Boutique teamed up to support not only a worthy cause, but created a fun night out for the girls. Here are just a few of the photos from the evening~ click here to view the lot of them.

Pleasantly surprised

2011-10-18T06:22:00.000-07:00

This very attractive family contacted me last minute, and fortunately we were able to squeeze in a Sunday afternoon shoot. Let me tell you how glad I am. They were up for anything. Really! They were climbing along the water, balancing on this massive tangle of tree roots... I knew the photos would be good, just by the energy they were giving me. I love when I have people who are excited to be having their photos taken~ it makes everything so much more creative and easy. Thank you!

(Click on the picture to see it up close) Had to include this one~ I'm in LOVE with Gabe's freckles. Having grown up with them sprinkled across my own nose, I'd understand if he wasn't crazy about them. But from an outside perspective, SCRUMPTIOUS! :)
Randy and Julie, you have a wonderful family. Thanks for the great afternoon, I hope to see you all again!

I love my job

2011-10-15T14:56:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness, I just love these girls. They are my sweet lil Claire and Megan, and what's not to love?! They make me laugh, and actually enjoy being ridiculous so they laugh too.

xoxoxox to you girls, and your cute mama Kimmy!!

Sophia

2011-10-13T19:00:00.000-07:00

This little honey was a pleasure to work with. Baby blue eyes and oh-so-squeezable chubby cheeks, Sophia was a darling.

Cassandra

2011-10-12T06:09:00.000-07:00

Remember this little baby? Miss Princess Cassandra went and grew up since I've seen her last! And what a little doll. Her eyes were just like the color of her dress.

Go Notre Dame! Thanks Gabbianellis!

Stunning

2011-10-09T16:44:00.000-07:00

Enough said~ their love is so clear, this family is stunning together. Congratulations on your engagement, Bob and Brooke. I'm so happy to know you all.

xoxo

Jenny

A year older

2011-10-08T15:35:00.000-07:00

It never fails to amaze me how much kids change in just one year. These girls (aren't they cute?!) have grown so much since their family shoot last year. They did a great job listening to Mom and Dad (I had to chuckle to myself when I heard, "Treats are involved"). Thanks for being flexible on the date, guys~ glad the weather was so nice on Wednesday!

Warm family, cold day

2011-10-02T06:07:00.000-07:00

What an adorable family. Several things could have made for less smiles; bad directions to the location, holes ripped in the leotards, a tumble down the hill after a leaf, hello, it was cold outside... and who is this strange lady with the camera with weeds in her hair? However. Look at that picture! They stuck it out and have beautiful photos to remember the day. I couldn't have asked more of the girls, and poor baby Evvy tried her hardest too. Thank you, Joel and Angie for all the work it takes for a day like this. I'm so glad to meet you all~ enjoy your birthday party weekend!

~Jenny

Sunni and Luci

2011-09-29T11:42:00.000-07:00

Well, my mother has (I think) completed her family now. Send her to a craft fair, and she comes home with another puppy. :) Sunni is now the veteran stick chewer, and has someone to teach all her tricks to... meet Luci! I guess she's sort of my adopted sister... ha!

Welcome to the family little one. Nanabanana requested a photo session so all her Cranberryfest girlfriends could keep tabs on you. xoxoxo

Cole

2011-09-22T08:00:00.000-07:00

I wanted to post this here so anyone who wants to support Cole (and his family) can leave a message, pray, whatever is in your heart.

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/coltons

Copied from Cole's CaringBridge site:

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2011 1:55 AM, CDT

(This is purely a Mom post. I will post an update on Cole later in the day. Sorry for the inconvenience, but I needed to get this out. I'm not sure how many tissues I went through writing it, but it was a lot. With love, Sarah)

Nobody hopes for this life. That’s not how it happens. It’s not as if you were lying in bed one night, woke up in the morning, and thought, “Hmm. I think I’d like for my child to have cancer and to have to fight every single moment of their life just for that next breath…” That doesn’t happen. Before Cole’s diagnosis, cancer never came to my mind as a threat to my child. Or to Nathan’s mind. Or to my friends Amy & Justin’s mind. Or to Joel & Connie’s mind. Or to Tim & Jen’s mind. Or to Frank & Melanie’s mind. Or the minds of any of the other parents who have watched their babies fight a disease that was working to claim their lives…

Do you know what it’s like? Your baby, the absolute light in your life, lies in a hospital bed late at night. He’s so tiny wound in those sheets; the bed is far too big for his little fingers and little toes. He’s asleep, but you’re watching the monitors—glued to them. The heart rhythm. The oxygen saturation. The blood pressure. You can’t take your eyes off of it for fear that something changes. A pain pump is nudging him into a drug induced sleep. He has a tube hooked up to his chest pumping poison in slowly to try and save his life. A bag of blood is waiting to be ran immediately following the chemo just so his body can function, followed by platelets, followed by plasma, followed by antibodies, followed by more poison. An oxygen line is running up to the canula in his nose. Tiny monitors are stuck to his chest and back; so many that he can’t roll over. A blood pressure cuff is wrapped around his arm, gauze is taped to the front of his hips over the bone marrow draw site, blood is soaked through his shirt from the surgery to place his new chest port, spinal fluid is on the sheets below him from his spinal tap, and band-aids and bruises are covering his skin. His skin is so pale you can see the veins clear through it. His hair is matted and thinning, his face is flush, his eyes are sunk in, and his lips are dry and cracked from dehydration. And it’s silent. It’s the quietest quiet you’ve ever known in your life despite the constant beeping of the monitor and the clicks of the IV machine. That night will be the longest, blackest night of your life, and you will spend it entirely begging God not to take your child… It is absolute torment one second at a time.

That moment is a moment I would never wish on anyone... It is a horrifying, gut wrenching, mind boggling period of your life that will leave you with the darkest hole in your soul that you could ever imagine. In actuality time will pass by too quickly, but you’ll feel like every moment is an eternity. If you love your child more than you do yourself the way that I do, it will be like walking through the doors of Hell and feeling the heat rise up against your skin. The sweat collects on your brow and your heart feels as though it might burst right through your chest. The Devil will be walking your way & all you can do is fall down on your knees and pray that God will save you… or in this case, your baby.

Welcome to our world.

This life is not easy. It is a club that you prayed to God you would never be a part of. It’s hard on the mind, heart, soul, and body. Thoughts of the hospital, and clinic, and all of the children I see day in and day out struggling just to live actually haunt me sometimes. You cannot imagine, for one second, the stress that cancer parents, siblings, and grandparents go through. It’s kind of like a rollercoaster that they can’t get off of. Like a living nightmare. Some parents feel like they can basically flip a coin: Heads your child is cured. Tails your child isn’t. Do those odds sound fair at all? Your biggest fear as a parent is the loss of your child, but that's a reality that cancer parents look in the face every day. Truth is, cancer isn’t selective. It comes without warning like a thief. It doesn’t care your age, color, creed, religion, or whether you’re a good person or not. It grabs hold of the thing you love most, with no regard for their life, and doesn’t let go. And on that journey, you are constantly scared. Anxiety becomes your energy. And things change. Dramatically. Constantly. The people you love, they come and go. Some disappear from your life and never look back. The people you thought would call, never do. And by some twist of God’s beauty, the people you thought never would, do. Life revolves around you, moving quickly, and you’re standing in the eye of the storm.

You have a choice to make. Stay in one spot and come what may---or fight.

And so it should be understandable and no surprise that I have chosen to battle on behalf of my baby. I will not roll over for cancer. I will not just let it break into my life and take away the one thing that means more to me than anything without a fight! I have been a cancer Mom for nearly four years now, and in that four years, I have watched some of my closest friends kiss their children goodbye for the last time. I have stood on the gravesites of their children, folded over a headstone, weeping---changed forever. Do you know what it’s like to drop your son off at school and wonder if he’ll ever start another year? Can you imagine what that drive home feels like? I can tell you… Do you wonder whether you’ll ever see your child drive a car? Graduate high school? Get married? Do you know what it’s like to go to bed at night knowing you have a 50/50 shot at the outcome you’re praying your heart out for?

To be perfectly honest, recently I have really struggled with purpose and that’s the reason for this journal post.I know that God has given me gifts, talents, and experiences to use in my daily life to make a difference. Somehow, because I've been using those gifts, I have come under fire for my fierce support and advocacy of childhood cancer. These people do it behind my back, of course, but it gets back to me. I'm a friend one moment and a foe the next. Apparently, my updates, requests, and conversations are 'annoying’ and ‘obnoxious’ because they're always about Cole or one of the other kids in our little "club." Oh, and apparently I do charity for the “attention.” Forgive me, but are you freaking kidding me? Listening to garbage like that is like chewing on a mouthful of tacks. It’s a hard, hard pill to swallow (and also difficult not call them out personally. Integrity is important to me.) But do you know what’s harder? Living with myself for the rest of my life knowing I did NOTHING. I can’t go to bed at night knowing that I rested on my laurels, kept my mouth shut, and hoped for the best. I am NOT that woman. It is my God-given right & responsibility to take this experience and make it count for something… And to be perfectly honest, I don’t give two crumbs whether my social media loving, fund raising, childhood cancer drum beating behind is popular or not! I will do what it takes to protect these kids and their families from the Hell that we go through on a daily basis. As God as my witness, I will speak until there is no breath left in my lungs! I will write letters to newspapers, magazines, television stations, drug companies, politicians, and anyone who can possibly help until my fingers literally stop functioning! And I will knock on every single door I can to beg for donations to further research! I will! Because I am passionate about what it is I’m doing! No more burying our babies. NO more! You do not see the necessity, because you’re not here in the trenches with us! Our kids deserve to taste life!

This is for Cole. This is for Ella and Casey and Lily and Ryan and Alyse and every other child whose parents are left behind to grieve them… I will NOT stop because the neighborhood bullies showed up on the playground to pick on me. Make your life worth living. Get involved. Use all that talk for something good. I am not perfect, and if you want to hate on me as a person, fine. I don’t get it, but fine. Waste your time. But I will not quit! If my posting on Facebook or Twitter bothers you, delete me. If you my blog updates are annoying, cancel them. If you don’t like what I have to say, walk away. The problem is clearly yours, not mine. My child means more to me than anything in this world, and if that bothers you, nobody is forcing you to be a part of our story.

Cole is in the thick of his hardest, longest chemo right now. He’s had too many setbacks, surgeries, close calls, and emergencies. It’s all very scary- for him, for us. And he’s growing up now, so he’s beginning to fully understand exactly what he’s up against. I dare you to look him in the face and tell him that what I'm trying to do is wrong... He’s a child, wise beyond his years, living in a very adult world, having to comprehend the balance between life and death at the tender age of eleven. Is that fair? Is it so wrong that I am choosing to fight back- to do everything, ANYTHING, that I can to help him and kids like him?

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness month. Every day 46 kids are diagnosed with cancer; seven of those kids die. Because children are so resilient, they make their diseases look easy----but they’re the farthest thing from easy. Somebody needs to protect them, to speak for them, and to garner attention for them. I think I speak for a good majority of all cancer parents when I say that I will be damned if I’m not first in that line…

Sarah

"I don't need easy. I just need possible!"

JOIN COLE ON FACEBOOK! www.facebook.com/FightBackForCole

Carrie & Ben

2011-09-08T09:59:00.000-07:00

What a sweet couple. That's what I kept thinking throughout the day as I watched Ben and Carrie together. They're both a bit quiet, and very genuine people. Together with Mac, the three of them are truly a beautiful family. Congratulations on the celebration of your marriage!

:(

2011-08-30T01:38:00.000-07:00

Okay, I shouldn't be sad. But I am. My little Maddie is starting first grade on Thursday. What happened to the last... almost seven years?! I know everyone says that, but I really do remember her wearing her little bunny slippers and tutu like it was yesterday. She's sooo good though; her heart is way too big for her little body and smart! I can't wait to see what she gets into this year at school. We sure love you darling girl. You make us so proud. What a tough summer this has been for you, missing your brother Lieym. You're doing good, you're our sparkliest star here on Earth. All my love to you, and good luck on your first day of school this year! xoxoxox Aunt GG

"Cha-chi"

2011-08-14T16:05:00.000-07:00

God blessed us when He put you in our lives. You are a beautiful person, and an outstanding friend. Thank you for all that you are to me!

Cassie

2011-08-11T13:57:00.000-07:00

:) I loved her shoes. And her personality. Cassie is the cutest girl ever, and so smart to boot. After her senior year, she plans to continue her education and become a doctor for children. (Lots of AP courses this year, hang in there!) It was so easy to take good pictures of this beautiful young lady. Thank you for the fun morning!

Brooklyn : 2 weeks old

2011-08-06T12:17:00.000-07:00

Welcome, Brooklyn. It was so nice to meet you today. I got a couple laughs watching you sprinkle on daddy... he did too. He couldn't take his eyes off of you, so maybe it surprised him. :) Your mommy and daddy love you so much already!

Not sure you like boys yet, especially cousins! Maybe because he sprinkled a bit too? Ha!
I know one other little girl that likes to protect you already. She's got your back!

my angel baby

2011-08-04T13:21:00.000-07:00

Throughout my nephew Lieym's journey, I've posted updates on his condition while he battled cancer. Lieym earned his angel wings on July 10th. I haven't updated lately... I just didn't know what to say or how to sort out my feelings. He is so terribly missed. There is such a void in my heart; the shadow is being cast over all the bright spots too.

I haven't updated because I wanted to wait until I had something positive to say. All of the well meant things that are said still sting, and I wouldn't be entirely truthful if I winged them out there with a smile on my face.

Well, now I have something positive to say. Our genius friend Kurt Mussey of My Doc Network has not only completed Lieym's story through video, he has also put us in touch with an amazing group of people who have raised money for Lieym's family. I would like to personally thank them all for making an awful time a little less impossible. Their superhuman hearts have reached us all the way from Hiram, Georgia to help with the mountain of medical bills and expenses. Please stop in and leave a comment HERE or at hiramdentistry@yahoo.com to tell them they've made a difference!

When I called Angie (Lieym's mom) to tell her about this, she was shocked and so grateful. She actually yelled at me, "I purposely put mascara on today because I was not going to cry!"

Thank you so much, to all those at Hiram Dentistry for supporting a family they don't know personally~ it is so kind and deeply appreciated.

Thank you to Kurt for continuing to follow the journey and for doing what helps the most every time. We treasure your work and your friendship. (yes, I know this is sappy Kurt, but it's true anyway!)

Megan

2011-08-03T06:09:00.000-07:00

I'll just say that at 18 months old, I don't blame Megan for being waaay more interested in the flowers than my camera. I caught her smiling a few times, but she pretty well outran me~ and her parents! It's always a fun challenge, and I love the resulting pictures of those fleeting moments where she took time to...well, stop and smell the flowers.

Thanks for the exercise and letting me play!

Madison

2011-06-30T14:39:00.000-07:00

Could I have a better job? Madison was sweet to work with, and so cooperative. She braved it out and sat on the tree branch for me; I love this shot. Thanks to Mom (Sarah) for being so flexible on the location today~ what a crazy morning!

And the eyes have it

2011-06-29T19:45:00.001-07:00

What stunning eyes to go with a gorgeous smile. Seniors are some of my favorite sessions. We were everywhere from hopping rocks in the stream, to balancing on a fallen tree... even on the tracks when a train came out of nowhere! Liz you earned your modeling stripes today. :)

Thanks for a great afternoon to all the girls, including Amy who helped with lighting. XO!

Southern sunshine

2011-06-27T12:44:00.000-07:00

These two beauties traveled all the way from Arizona just to have me take their photographs. No they didn't. But since they were here anyway, we might as well take advantage of it! :) Aurora and Ariana have been blessed to be adopted by their parents. They were in the area visiting family~ lucky family! Beautiful girls.

Farmer's Market

2011-06-25T06:17:00.000-07:00

This morning Mom and I stopped at the Farmer's Market on a whim. I was drawn to a stone jewelry display and started chatting with the woman who creates the pieces. Of course I started talking about Lieym... she shared her story with me about her husband who passed away from cancer, let me cry and hugged me like a friend.

Rosanne, if you are reading this, I just want to say thank you. I needed to hear what you told me; it has helped bring me peace today.

I'd also like to share a link to her webpage~ look at her beautiful work HERE.

And of course I can't have a post without a photo! He loves rolling down hills...

Love my Lieym Bug Hippo

2011-06-23T14:02:00.000-07:00

Sasha & Derek

2011-06-13T19:02:00.000-07:00

This weekend was busy with all sorts of things~ everything from stripping wallpaper, shooting a wedding (my last with Artist's Eyes!~ miss you!) and taking a digger on the stairs. Ouch. The best part is what you want to see pictures of, right? (My feet were ugly enough without being all bruised up) Check out a slideshow of Sasha & Derek's wedding HERE.

Purple dot PRAYER

2011-06-07T06:52:00.000-07:00

I'm copying this from my nephew Lieym's caring bridge page:

CALLING ALL LIEYM BUG HIPPO FANS............

Now more than ever we need your support with heart felt prayers that we all hear good, encouraging words tomorrow as Tim and Angela meet with Lieym's doctors. I know Lieym has impacted us all in many different ways and has certainly made all of his followers realize how precious life is, how our loved ones are ALWAYS what matters most and how giving of one's self is truly to receive. Lieym and his family have been blessed with many many wonderful friends, family and Lieymbughippo fans that are with us in spirit but not yet met. My Fluffy is having her 30th birthday on Wednesday and there isn't one person reading this that can't guess what she would like to receive. Let's get our prayer chain going and make a mass effort at 12:00 to pray for God's will to heal our precious lil Lieym. They will be meeting at 12:30. Put a (purple his favorite color) dot on your hand, right now so you don't forget and of course continue the prayer's along his journey. We can be a part of giving the most precious of all gifts.

thanx everyone nana jo

Say that three times fast

2011-06-04T18:53:00.000-07:00

David John Sharon Mary Eddie Joe Carol Mike Shirley Nancy Joanne Tony Diane Pete Tom and Jane. I think they can all recite it in under 5 seconds.

Yes, they are all siblings and their mother earned her nickname, "Amazing Grace" by raising them all to be outstanding people. It was so neat to see everyone come together (in one place at the same time!) for their family portrait.

Thanks to everyone for being so easy to work with; I had a lot of fun. I will let you know when I get the photos edited and ready for viewing. Hope to see everyone again soon!

Faster than a two-year-old

2011-05-31T11:40:00.000-07:00

Errr... not quite. Seriously, Nolan can already outrun me. Especially when I'm chasing after him with my eye up to the camera. I didn't stand a chance. We had fun though, and he was definitely worn out by the end of the day. (Which is nice for Mom and Dad). Ann and John, it was good to see you as always. Enjoy!

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Mr. Lieym Bug Hippo

2011-05-30T13:04:00.000-07:00

Hello Darling.
You are looking well.
We're praying for you every day.
You look like you know you're going to be okay.
Those wise eyes.
You keep showing the world what a superhero you are.
Playing, smiling, having a fun time.
Nothing slows you down.
You're tough,
and sweet at the same time.
We love you so much Lieym Bug Hippo Superhero. :)

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-07T05:26:00.000-07:00

To all the beautiful Mamas out there, have an amazing Mother's Day!

And to mine in particular, thank you for everything. You've given me countless examples of how to be compassionate, wise, and endlessly loving. If I raise my babies with one quarter of the skill you raised Angie and I, I will be so proud. I love you as my mom, my friend and my inspiration.

Each day you are more beautiful, and it gives me so much happiness to see you as Nana to my babies!

To my other Mama, thank you! You've made me feel welcome from the second I met you. You are kind, classy, and sassy. Such a great combination. :) You love me enough to give me your son as a husband (even though I can't boil eggs or iron very well). I look forward to spending lots of summer days together now that you're "on vacation." I love you so much!

I have to laugh as I copy this to the post, it's an e-mail I wrote a few weeks ago when I was "enjoying" being a mom on a Monday. (Like a Monday Monday).

feed scarlett.

jack gets in bed with me.
give scarlett anti-gas drops.
cuddle with both of my babies.
think i'm the queen of monday. i can handle this.
start changing scarlett's diaper.
get liquid poop fired at me while diaper is off.
liquid poop also on blanket and clothes.
put new diaper on.
she immediately poops in new diaper.
jack asks to watch robin hood movie. i tell him in a minute.
feed scarlett on other boob.
get her new clothes. (where does all this laundry come from?)
change her diaper again.
pick her up to put new clothes on.
projectile vomits on me, it comes back down and lands on her face and her new clothes.
take new diaper off.
tell jack in a minute.
put crying, screaming, choking on baby puke scarlett in bath tub.
wash puke off of me.
wash puke off of scarlett.
wrap clean crying baby in towel.
tell jack in a minute.
feed her again since her tummy is now empty.
tell jack in a minute.
get new clothes (with no liquid poop and no puke on them) for scarlett.
start dressing her in pack and play while jack watches.
jack sneezes all over scarlett.
tell jack to go blow his nose.
finish dressing scarlett.
hear splash in bathroom, remember there is a tub of water.
remember jack flooding bathroom 3 days ago.
hear toilet flush. twice.
finish dressing scarlett, run to bathroom.
find entire roll of toilet paper in toilet, water trailing from toilet to sink.
lock jack in his bedroom.
lay scarlett on the floor, fish out t.p. wash hands yell at jack pick up scarlett hear jack ripping window plastic off of bedroom window open door to yell at jack try to close door to continue time out jack opens door.
slam fingers in door.
lay screaming scarlett on the floor.
lock jack in his bedroom.
not feeling like queen of monday anymore.

Ok, now here's an email I got back about being a mom:

Before I was a Mom,

I never tripped over toys

or forgot words to a lullaby.

I didn't worry whether or not

my plants were poisonous.

I never thought about immunizations.

Before I was a Mom,

I had never been puked on.

Pooped on.

Chewed on.

Peed on.

I had complete control of my mind

and my thoughts.

I slept all night.

Before I was a Mom,

I never held down a screaming child

so doctors could do tests.

Or give shots.

I never looked into teary eyes and cried.

I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin.

I never sat up late hours at night

watching a baby sleep.

Before I was a Mom,

I never held a sleeping baby just because

I didn't want to put her down.

I never felt my heart break into a million pieces

when I couldn't stop the hurt.

I never knew that something so small

could affect my life so much.

I never knew that I could love someone so much. I never knew I would love being a Mom.

Before I was a Mom,

I didn't know the feeling of

having my heart outside my body..

I didn't know how special it could feel

to feed a hungry baby.

I didn't know that bond

between a mother and her child.

I didn't know that something so small

could make me feel so important and happy.

Before I was a Mom,

I had never gotten up in the middle of the night

every 10 minutes to make sure all was okay.

I had never known the warmth,

the joy,

the love,

the heartache,

the wonderment

or the satisfaction of being a Mom.

I didn't know I was capable of feeling so much,

before I was a Mom

I love it! I guess it goes to show how every day can be totally different. Sometimes it's your perspective that can make or break your day, and sometimes it's just how many times you get liquid poop fired at you. :) Above all else, becoming a Mom is the best thing I've done in my life. I get more joy and pride out of these two little buggers than anything else.

Further proof that Momhood is wonderful, and slightly amusing if you can look at it that way; this is Jack's reaction to nap time when he was really not at all tired.

"No Mom! It's "wake-up" time. I wanna go to your bed."

Okay so he has a slight temper. But then there are times when I just watch him because he's so flippin' cute. Like eating a bowl full of noodles.

Love that little bugger!

Well this post is getting a bit long. I'm sure I could ramble on forever about my kids, but that's what Mom's do best in the end, isn't it?

photo contest

2011-04-27T13:59:00.000-07:00

Hello favorite people! I entered a photo in a cover contest~ check out the fun pictures and vote for your favorite! (your favorite is mine, right? RIGHT?!)

:) CLICK HERE TO VOTE

happy birthday to me

2011-04-14T12:59:00.000-07:00

Today started with my gorgeous hubby making me coffee with sugar and cream, just how I like it. He took a much prized vacation day to help me do "whatever I want" for my day. Jack climbed into bed with us and (after banging heads) settled down for a snuggle. His biggest crime today was wanting me to hold him the whole time we were shopping. Baby doll Scarlett gave me such a beautiful present~ watch the video for that one.

I've gotten 3 cards in the mail already from my mom (with a check in each, like a little kid :) ). My dad called and sang me the birthday song on my voicemail. I honestly think it was the sweetest message I've ever gotten.

My best friend (and sister) Angie came over yesterday and begged to give me my present early because she was so excited. I said surprise me tomorrow, and when she gave me the gift today it had "me" written all over it. Only the people that really know you can get you gifts like that.

My other beautiful mother (in-law) met me out shopping and gave me a card that said I was more like her daughter than daughter-in-law. And between her and my sister Sara, I've been treated to a day at my favorite salon.

I have girlfriends coming over tonight to share a birthday drink. I've had phone calls, texts, songs and cards wishing me a happy birthday. I'm almost in happy tears writing this, I feel so special and blessed. I am so fortunate to be loved like this~ life is marvelous.

why i love sunday mornings

2011-04-10T06:28:00.001-07:00

Isabel Kristine

2011-04-06T10:48:00.000-07:00

Jack finally got to spend some time with his cousin Isabel. She lives in Texas, and came up as a surprise with her Mama Katie. We're so excited to play (Texas style with the tutus!) She is absolutely gorgeous (not that I had to say that) and we're going to try to get some more pictures before she has to go home on Friday. Love you Izzy!

I Back Jack (and Lieym)

2011-04-05T14:26:00.000-07:00

Hello!

Here's an opportunity to raise up to $90,000 for Neuroblastoma research!

Please vote for the I Back Jack foundation (an unlimited number of times!!) to help us win this money. My nephew Lieym has neuroblastoma and would benefit from this research. Please vote as many times as you can, and also link to FB or email friends you think would like to vote as well. CLICK HERE TO VOTE!!

THANKS so much!

Mr. Lieym Bug Hippo Superhero

Happy Birthday baby!

2011-03-18T02:06:00.000-07:00

To my wonderful, warm, sweet and gorgeous hubby. Happy 30th birthday my love. You are the most incredible man, and I thank God for the blessing that you are in our lives. You've made the most incredible family with me. Thank you for everything. I love you so much!I love you Daddy! You're the best at playing with me, chasing me around the house with a diaper, making me supper and sneaking me snacks. I love that we both wear baseball hats together and that you lay on the elephant pillow on the floor every night so I can fall asleep. You're my hero.

Love, Jack
I'm just a little sparkle right now Daddy, but I already love you and trust you. You are so patient with me when I cry, and you walk me around and pat my butt so I can be calm and happy. We're going to have so much fun together, and I can't wait to learn all sorts of stuff from you. I love you!

Love, Scarlett
To many more memories, "today's socks" and a wonderful year. You are spectacular, and we hope you have the best birthday like you deserve. XOXOXOXO!!!!

Gramma Great and Scarlett

2011-03-16T16:59:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Scarlett met her Great Grandma Louindine. Gramma has been asking about her on the phone, and very anxious to finally meet her. Two very beautiful souls.

Scarlett: 7 days old

2011-03-12T10:18:00.000-08:00

Little Muffin handled her first real photo shoot like a champ. :) My precious little girl!

to my brides

2011-03-09T12:00:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine that I suffered though graphic design classes with has been adding to her design business. I've personally seen wedding invitations created by her, and they are stunning. Check out some of her work HERE and consider her if you're looking for beautiful custom invitations.

*She is not limited to wedding invites, if you need anything designed she's your girl!

our sweet Scarlett Li

2011-03-07T13:17:00.000-08:00

With love and joy, we would like to announce our new baby Scarlett. She is 4 days old today, and the last 4 days have been more amazing than we can describe. Jack is a happy big brother; he likes to give her a kiss on the run and then get back to what he was doing. :) Kevin and I are so blessed and happy with our family.

Welcome to the world, darling. May God bless you and keep you!

All our love, Daddy, Mommy and Jack

happily in love

2011-02-24T12:19:00.000-08:00

My darling sister Angie has showed me up with my own camera. The countdown is on, with three days left until my little darling is due to meet the world. Ang insisted that we get some pictures, and after seeing them I think for the first time in my life I'm happy to be on the other side of the lens. I will truly treasure these images of the last time I'll have this kind joy and anticipation. Thank you so much Angie! I love them!

shhh

2011-02-20T20:20:00.000-08:00

Still hibernating... It's been a while. Hubby, Jack and I have had a lot going on lately. My nephew relapsed with cancer, we bought a new (130-year-old-Victorian) house and moved and are expecting a daughter in a week! Needless to say, lots of prayers, work and preparation that's been happening here. Thought I'd better see if I still remember my password for my blog, and say hello to anyone who might remember I'm here. :) Hope your winter is going warmly and your new year is bringing you happiness. Catch a few snowflakes on your tongue... close your eyes and listen to the quiet that snow brings.

God bless.

A prayer request

2011-01-05T20:11:00.000-08:00

This little guy in the plaid is my nephew Lieym. He has recently relapsed with cancer and is starting treatment tomorrow morning at Children's Hospital. Please keep him and his family in your thoughts and prayers. If you'd like to leave a message of encouragement for him, CLICK HERE to be directed to his Caring Bridge website. Thank you so much!
This is Lieym last night with his sister Maddie and cousin Jack. Keep smiling Lieym, we love you!

grrr ho ho

2010-12-20T12:22:00.000-08:00

Studio pictures are great. Lots of people love them. But it's not my thing. However, after having to cancel my last two sessions due to nasty weather, and turn another one down... I'm starting to think I'm going to build my own gosh darn studio. (I have to say "gosh darn" cuz Santa's listening). Until then, I'm either running away to Florida, or you'll have to look at random pictures that describe how I'm feeling today. :) Stay warm out there...

Snowdust

2010-12-07T07:13:00.000-08:00

blog hibernation

2010-11-23T18:27:00.000-08:00

As the *brrr* cold winter weather sets in, my camera (and blog) seem to go into hibernation. Come to think of it, I don't think I have a single decent picture of Jack for his November folder on my computer...

The end of the year gives me time to work on other projects like wedding books for next year. Below are a few pages from a guest sign in book for Ben and Carrie's August 2011 wedding. It also gives me time to look over things from the year, adjust prices, new things to offer, etc. So! If you have any suggestions/comments, send 'em on over! :)

Hope everyone is staying warm, this morning I saw the first few snowflakes. I dream of palm trees and sand... and turkey! :) Have a great Thanksgiving!

*click on these to see them larger, it's a two-page spread as it would look when the book is open.

Hallelujah!

2010-11-15T06:01:00.000-08:00

My father-in-law sent me a YouTube video (kind of random) but I wanted to share it because by about 3:30 minutes I was really trying not to cry. It is so beautiful and definitely (as the title says) random, something you hope that someday you're in the right place at the right time to experience. CLICK HERE to view it and enjoy!

he plays hard

2010-11-04T11:44:00.000-07:00

stud muffin monkey

2010-11-02T07:44:00.000-07:00

This weekend was crazy busy. A good friend of ours got married in Rochester, MN. So a four and a half hour drive one way, with little man Jack in the back seat~ but I can't believe how good he was! He had a snack bag and doodle pad from Aunt GG to keep him busy, and slept for an hour... it was actually a really nice drive. I loved getting him dressed up in his little outfit with a tie. He was the life of the party at the dance, who knows where he gets his moves!?

The hotel we stayed at had an indoor waterpark, so I didn't feel too bad waking Jack up early to go for a swim. He had a blast going down the slide and playing pool basketball with Dad.

After swimming we packed up quick and made the drive home in a hurry so we could take Jack for his first trick or treat outing. Love that little monkey! He did NOT want his picture taken though...

We met up with my sister's family and some friends... here he's getting mugged (or hugged) by his favorite girl Rapunzel.
I had to stop this lady and take a picture of her dog. Have you ever seen something this funny? She said the dog hated every second of it. I don't know, it looked kinda comfy to me, and the little thing got carried around like a baby!
My favorite Jack-o-lantern to date. :)
Jack, Maddie and Lieym (Buzz) all a little quirky from a sugar buzz.
Aunt GG showing Jack the ropes.
Family friends~ can you believe Ariel's hair?! It was funny watching her try to walk when her "mertail" started falling apart.
Little bee Seamus was running low on steam.

With fistfuls of candy, it was a great way to end the weekend. Hope everyone stayed warm and got some great treats!

Meet Maddox

2010-10-22T13:06:00.000-07:00

1.2.
This little guy was as cool as a cucumber. (Seriously, I couldn't get him to crack a smile). He was way more interested in the dirt and leaves than any old lady with a camera. :) I love his curiosity, and I miss this age when the walk is more of a leap, and those cheeks are so bite worthy!
3. 4. 5.6.
7. 8. 9.
Sister Madison came along to play...

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After a step or two he was back on the ground playing with the leaves. The boy knows what he likes! Good job Maddox!

ONE!

2010-10-20T07:22:00.000-07:00

1.2.
Yay! Nolan is ONE! And what a handsome little devil already, right? CLICK HERE to see Nolan when he was a newborn (just as cute, just smaller).

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*sigh* those beautiful eyes...

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The Moutheys

2010-10-16T08:49:00.000-07:00

What a day we had for family pictures. It was so warm and sunny~ almost a little too warm, for all the hiking around they had to do! Well worth it though, for this gorgeous picture. Terry and Chelsea, you look great! Lucas, you're old hat at this already. :) Thanks guys!

Ben & Carrie: engagement

2010-10-14T17:44:00.000-07:00

I have to admit, every once in a while I just get tired of taking pictures. And then I get a couple like this. They were fun, cute, and relaxed. It made my job so easy and pleasurable. Thanks guys, for a great afternoon!

Maddie

2010-10-12T14:45:00.000-07:00

My beautiful niece Maddie and I had a quick photo session today (quick because she was at the park with her cousin Jack, and who wants to sit still for pictures?). She was so tolerant of me, I can't count how many times I said, "Just one more picture" but she tried really hard to hold still. Thanks Maddie! I'm glad you had a great first field trip today to the pumpkin farm! Love you!

Happy birthday Jack!

2010-10-10T15:01:00.000-07:00

You are my cutie pie. Your sweet little smile, your devious eyes, and your constant chatter make up one irresistible little JAck! I'm so glad you're mine. And Gramma (Mom) happy birthday to you too! You are a sweet and lovely lady, and I'm glad you're mine too! :)
Your first hockey helmet. Cannot wait to see you sliding around on the ice like your daddy.
Love you honey! xoxoxoxxo Mommy

Holly

2010-10-08T12:31:00.000-07:00

Would you look at the gorgeous eyes on this girl? Wow. Besides being beautiful on the outside, Holly is graduating this year and pursuing a lofty goal: a doctorate in Audiology. A sweet, smart girl, Holly was a pleasure to work with. And mom, thanks for all the help, you did a great job!

"Small fry"

2010-10-03T06:03:00.000-07:00

What kind of nickname is "small fry" when he's gone and grown right up on me? I feel some sort of mother panic mode happening, as Jack creeps towards... 6 days???!!!! till he turns two?!

He no longer asks for help. He demands it. He bathes on his own, gets his own cup when he's thirsty, and tells me "no, that one" if I pick the wrong shirt for him on a particular day. There is not a fiercer love than the one I feel for him, but at the same time I feel like my heart is just tied to his pant leg, waiting to be brushed off if he decides to. Who knew being a mom could turn me into such a baby... Happy birthday my little Jack, please stay little for a tiny while??

9 days old: Avalyn

2010-09-26T06:51:00.001-07:00

Was there any question she was going to be beautiful? And perfect? A big congratulations on a tiny little angel. Jason and Jess, as well as a few very proud grandparents.

Stacey and Joe

2010-09-23T05:36:00.000-07:00

This past weekend's wedding was one of the most fun I've shot. The whole group of people were just genuinely nice, and easy to work with. It's also the second to last wedding that I'm shooting for Artist's Eyes Photography... it will be sad to say I'm done, but it won't be goodbye! Check out a slideshow of the day's events HERE.

Lucas

2010-09-21T14:38:00.000-07:00

To me, Lucas is in between stages. I can't figure out if he's ready to model for Seventeen or Toys 'R Us. Either way, I'm glad he modeled for me! Thanks Chels, for stepping outside the box and letting me take Lucas anywhere I wanted~ I've been dying to get away from the park scene!

High school Senior: Adam

2010-09-15T06:44:00.000-07:00

Adam is thinking of going to school for film. Someday he might make a living on the other side of the camera~ where it's more comfortable. :) Thanks Mama Cindy, for being my incredibly talented lighting assistant.

Beauty

2010-09-14T19:04:00.000-07:00

I caught this moment between my mom and Grandma. I think they're beautiful.

Help kids like Lieym for free

2010-09-10T19:20:00.000-07:00

As a sort of side note/request~ the last post was pictures of my nephew Lieym. Maybe some of you know his story, but if you don't and you'd like too, he has his own "cancer survivor" web page HERE. I'm asking anyone who is willing to cast their free vote HERE as a means of raising funds for children's cancer treatment research. I've come to know of quite a few families who would personally benefit from this research for their young children. Thank you in advance from so many people!

Lieym

2010-09-09T06:33:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite little men in the world. This is my nephew/kid Lieym. Out of anyone I know, he has the most heart, and the most sparkle in his eyes... even when he's quiet. He'll be 4 the day after Christmas~ looking at these pictures was a wake up call. He's not so little any more, he really has grown into a little man!

Love you bunches baby!

misery

2010-09-06T16:01:00.000-07:00

Maybe I shouldn't think his "pain" is so entertaining, but really. I love the way he scrunches his face up like that. What a faker.

Little models

2010-09-02T19:32:00.000-07:00

One of the best looking families I've had the luck to work with. ;) Their "girls with curls" as they're known, had more important things to do (like climb the playground) than sit still for pictures; however a very patient Mom and Dad did their best and have nice portraits to show for it. Props to Grandma for making the girls' dresses to match!

table manners

2010-08-30T07:28:00.000-07:00

I think I'll change his last name to Flintstone...

Amanda and Ross

2010-08-09T12:58:00.000-07:00

Congratulations, you two. Sweetly in love is a good look. :)

Sneak peek at renewed love

2010-08-08T17:57:00.000-07:00

Amanda and Ross are long time friends of mine who renewed their faith and vows this weekend. It was one of the most beautiful displays of love I've ever seen at a wedding. Their entire family (and friends) took a turn telling the couple what they mean to them, and how they've influenced their lives. There were a lot of tears shed over happy memories and wishes for a strong and happy future. I am so happy they were blessed to be together and have two beautiful daughters to share their love. Congratulations, dear friends. :) I'll post more pictures after I've caught up on sleep! They know how to throw a party!

Almost time

2010-08-06T10:03:00.000-07:00

Jess and Jason, I'm sure you're getting incredibly excited to meet your little girl. Almost there! Thanks again for being a trooper with all the weeds and mosquitoes Jess. You look fantastic!

Beautiful Mama

2010-07-29T19:14:00.001-07:00

What a gorgeous woman, soon to become a mother for the first time. Congratulations you two. Can't wait to meet your little girl. More pictures will be posted soon!

Emotional boy

2010-07-26T05:15:00.000-07:00

:) Don't ask me why, I just thought this was too funny.

Happy Monday.

Oh these cheeks!

2010-07-20T05:52:00.000-07:00

1Megan stole my heart with her gorgeous eyes, but her cheeks were rivaled by none. So precious! She had me crawling all over, making funny noises for a smile, but Daddy seemed to be the only one to work the magic. It was so nice to meet you all, hope to see you soon!

23/4

56
7

this mornings breakfast. (Jack's) and other things.

2010-07-16T06:34:00.000-07:00

So. It's definitely been awhile since I've posted anything new. June and July are a heck of a time for weddings, so I've been pretty busy with that, along with a wallop of what feels like the flu has kept me glued to the bathroom floor these past few weeks.

Coming soon will be little six month Megan... keep your eyes peeled! Thanks for hangin' in there with me, have a great weekend!!

Emma

2010-07-01T08:22:00.000-07:00

12.

17.
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What a pleasant way to spend the afternoon, with this little honey. I wasn't able to coax a smile from her; maybe she's going to be hard to get. :) Kris and Lisa, thanks for working this into your busy schedule!

33.

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16.

Madison and Moosey

2010-06-22T13:32:00.000-07:00

This little cutie was so excited to ride the train, hop on the carousel, and play with "Moosey" (her stuffed moose, who else?)~ I ended up running and chasing most of the morning with my camera. All said and done though, beautiful girl, beautiful pictures. Watch out for pictures of her daredevil brother, Maddox.

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Daddy's day at the zoo (where we fit right in)

2010-06-21T05:24:00.000-07:00

Three of the best dad's out there took us to the Henry Vilas Zoo in Madison yesterday. It was the most gorgeous day for it, and we worked up an appetite for Chinese Buffet afterwards. CLICK HERE for a slideshow of the fun day!

Happy Birthday!

2010-06-15T11:34:00.000-07:00

So I'm a day late wishing Miss Kim a happy birthday, but I'm sure it was a happy one. How can it not be with this family, and a whole week of vacation ahead?!

Father's Day

2010-06-14T20:06:00.000-07:00

There's something about the bond with Dad... it was almost like I wasn't there. Just two guys together, no need to talk or entertain... just to record that certain something.

potty on Wayne. potty on Garth.

2010-06-12T09:04:00.000-07:00

Honestly. I don't set this stuff up. This is what he does.

Still learning

2010-06-11T07:24:00.000-07:00

I'm pretty sure this is the one and only shot from the whole session where everyone (ahem, Lieym) was looking and half way smiling... While it's cute I'm not totally satisfied and I'm calling for a re-do. Good thing they're flexible!

cutest little monster

2010-06-08T04:15:00.000-07:00

Tried to get video of him singing to the window... he has my heart.

I said, "say peach"

2010-06-01T08:11:00.000-07:00

Where does he get this stuff?!

ahhh

2010-05-28T08:56:00.000-07:00

Gotta love the summer attire. And a cold cup of sweet tea. :0) Have a fun weekend everyone, and an extra day off! woop woop!

wahoo!!

2010-05-25T09:00:00.001-07:00

Familiar

2010-05-18T07:08:00.000-07:00

I was so happy to feel like Nolan recognized me this time. He's at the sponge stage; watching him soak everything up with his gorgeous brown eyes... He truly is a sweet kid, I can't believe how fast it's going! Ann and Jon are doing an amazing job raising a happy happy little guy. As always, it was a pleasure seeing you all again.

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Cassandra

2010-05-17T08:32:00.000-07:00

Princess Cassandra was stunningly pretty in her hand made gown from her Grandmother. Beth and Angelo are the proud new parents of this little beauty~ it was a pleasure working with them for the first time.

2.3.

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snapshots

2010-05-14T19:14:00.001-07:00

As I'm gearing up for the weekend full of photoshoots (5 to be exact, eek!) I noticed photos on my camera that haven't been uploaded for a while. I thought it was about time I post something on here of my little man Jack, and what he's been up to lately.

Here, he's praying with Dad. Notice, however, the food on his chin that tells you he had to be reminded. :)

Reading with moi. I love when he snuggles, it's rare but sweet.

And of course one of his visits with Grampa. Reading "The Five Little Firefighters" which he calls the "honk honk book" because... well that's what fire trucks do.

Trying on Mom's Pumas.
And a shot my dad has been after me to get, "Jack in the box".
Ouch!
Have a great weekend everyone! I hear we're finally getting rid of this crap weather. Bring on the sun!

Jenny

oh...Miami

2010-05-06T07:40:00.000-07:00

WEll. It's been awhile! And for good reason. I had the gorgeous opportunity to visit Miami. (sigh...) It was wonderful. My sister-in-law Sara let me tag along as she had a conference there, and let me tell you how much I appreciated it! I could go on about the warm breeze, the whitecaps, the night life... but that would be rubbing it in. ;)

Also, I met an amazing photographer there, but managed to lose his email. So! Juan, if you read this, here are links to those webpages I was telling you about: blurb jojo and dps.

Cheers!

My beautiful SIL Sara
A 5K run/walk Mercedes Benz fundraiser. The streets all around our hotel were closed off, over 20,000 people participated!

...and this is sort of what the nights felt like...

Goodbye Miami... hope to see you again soon. :)

Vote for my entry in the 2010 Professional Photographer Magazine Cover Contest

2010-04-23T05:40:00.000-07:00

Vote for my entry in the 2010 Professional Photographer Magazine Cover Contest

just beautiful kids

2010-04-23T05:02:00.000-07:00

I LOVE this family... LOVE LOVE LOVE 'em. And are they not gorgeous?! These, you have to click on to see bigger. Check out baby Rowan's eyes!

Hope to see you again very soon!

Custom Sculpture

2010-04-13T12:20:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

You need to check out THIS WEB PAGE!

Meet dear old Dad, my lifelong artistic inspiration.

Yup, he made that~

I'm very proud of him; he's branching out with his artistic talent. He can draw like a photograph and has the mind and skill to create any kind of motorized thing he dreams up.

However, his focus is on sculpture. He's been doing commissions for years, and I think is at the point of creating whatever he wants and selling it. Inspiring! Thanks Dad, for everything you do and create!

*Let him know what you think of his work at: jrgsculpture@gmail.com

ok mommy

2010-04-12T08:17:00.001-07:00

Welcome, Mr. Sun

2010-04-01T11:03:00.000-07:00

We've been waiting for you.

country boy

2010-03-30T09:54:00.000-07:00

The other day Dad was washing his big honkin' truck tires in the back yard. Of course Jack had to help, and what better to wear than his cowboy boots and cammo jacket? Love my boys...

sooo big!

2010-03-21T14:54:00.000-07:00

I love watching the swift change that happens within the first year. Nolan has made his appearance here before, and every time I get the chance to photograph him I think the same thing: he got cuter again. Thanks, Ann and Jon for the nice visit and the chance to see this guy grow!

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Happy Friday all.

2010-03-19T09:25:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone had a good week and has a fun weekend planned.

Cheers!

Spring fix

2010-03-15T18:12:00.000-07:00

After a long winter, it feels so good to get out and get some air. I'm pretty sure the boys felt the same way.

Jack was happy to play with us, until
he spotted "PUPPY!"

This little guy was out for a walk too. At six months old, he reminded me just how fast life has spun since Jack was born. I barely remember this age!

With his little pumpkin hat, he just melted me.
And Jack's favorite part of the walk~ meeting Max.
I can just see Dad teaching him to ride bike in a few years...

Have a good night...

those girls

2010-03-07T14:30:00.000-08:00

Angie and Sara to be more specific. Two of the girls that love to spoil Jack the most (and both favorite Aunties). The other day Angie brought over a one-of-a-kind banana that she had decorated with "I dream of Jack-ie". His favorite fruit, and favorite made-up song. :0)

Then Auntie Sara spent her Saturday tromping through the snow at a park while Jack slept in his sled... and when we got back sat and watched Elmo on youtube forEVER because... well, because it made him happy.

Then this morning getting dressed, Jack got to wear his brand new "Luck" shirt from Sara (he accessorized with my hat). I think the shirt does have magical powers, as he took an hour-and-a-half nap for us!

Much love from Jack (and us!) to two of our favorite girls! xoxox!

Blah!

2010-03-01T13:17:00.000-08:00

Happy Monday to everyone who would rather it be Saturday...

soooo jealous

2010-02-24T15:43:00.000-08:00

So my beautiful mama turned 50 on Tuesday (Happy birthday!!). Dad took her to Kauai, Hawaii. WOW! She called me Tuesday morning (which was really early, Kauai time) to tell me they went to the beach in the dark to watch the sunrise. What they saw before the sun came up though... amazing. Whales. Jumping out and up over the ocean...

*sigh* I can't think a more perfect way to start a milestone birthday.

Mom, you are one of the most special and beautiful people on this Earth, and you deserve every second of beauty you're experiencing. Can't wait to see you on Saturday!

Here are some pictures Dad sent:

Love you!!