Back from Maternity Leave

I'm back! I had a wonderful leave - full of time devoted to my new, growing family. We had a healthy baby boy who has already filled out lives with joy. He is growing so fast and I'm trying to cherish each day. I've had time to slow down a little and focus on the important things in life. I've been on more picnics, done more crafts, baked more homemade cookies, and spent more time with friends and family. It was refreshing. I've been thinking about the limited time God has given me to raise my children and how I want to make the most of that time. Now don't get me wrong. I absolutely LOVE my job. I think being a photographer is the best job in the world, and I'm very passionate about it and doing my best at it, but I must admit, that prior to my son's birth, it had been consuming me. So, even more than photography, I am very passionate about being a good wife, mother, sister, friend, etc. I've been thinking and praying about it a lot, and am going to continue photography, but for the next year or so, I will be taking a limited number of sessions per month, so I can put my family first. This is the awesome thing about being a small business owner and having awesome clients who understand. We as moms wear so many different hats, and it's so hard to do all things at 100%. Some things have to go. (I think in my case it will be cleaning the house!) I want to give my best to the things I choose to do.

"As for man, his days are like grass; As a flower of the field so he flourishes. For the wind passes over it, and it is gone... But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear Him, and His righteousness to children's children." ~Ps. 103:15-17

Bun in the Oven

This is my gorgeous sister-in-law pregnant with her second - my first niece! I can't wait!

Bride-To-Be

Isn't she gorgeous? Well, this shoot was near and dear to me, because that is my little sister! The shoot was a blast because everyone was staring at her and giving her well wishes. The little kids thought she was a princess, and one little girl's mom even asked us if she could take a picture of her daughter with the "princess"! After the shoot, we went to an ice cream parlor, and you wouldn't believe the looks we got - I'm glad she doesn't embarrass easy! Oh, I have to tell you. Good thing you can't smell the photographs, because the first shot was taken right next to the dumpster - no kidding! You never know where a good photo opportunity lies!

Another Newborn

This time it wasn't mine! A friend and colleague of mine - Jamie Woodward - took birth photos for me. It was so awesome to have the moments my son entered this world recorded forever! So, I had the honor of returning the favor for her a few weeks ago. She had a home birth and was so incredibly calm and brave!