Endless summer days ...
Long slow mornings ...
Carefree afternoons ...

I remember being a kid and feeling like summer would last forever. And now it's such a joy to be the parent, and watch my kiddos, as they feel the same way.

We have had fun and full days the past couple of weeks. Our house seems to be the place to gather ... cousins, friends, the neighborhood kids. And at any one time, most of them can be found right here.

We have had water balloon fights, Nerf dart gun wars, complete with elaborate forts as bases (one for the princesses and the other for the dragons), and walkie talkies to chat with partners. And even when all else failed, paint fights. Very creative, I might add. Each took a paint brush and splatted blue, red and yellow at one other. We have gone on bike rides, taken the dogs to the river and spent several afternoons swimming. We have strolled the downtown Growers Market and went to a concert in the park. We took a picnic dinner and enjoyed an evening of music, friends and food. The kiddos played and danced.

The kids have laughed ...

There's been the occasional "it's not fair," or bad attitude. It usually doesn't last long, and we can use those moments to look at the attitudes of their hearts, talk about why they are feeling that way, and learn from each experience. It's a time of learning ... for them, as well as myself.

At times I can easily have the "it's not fair" attitude. And when I find myself there, I'm not far from speaking before thinking, judging others and simply acting like my three year old. All of which I am quite good at come to find out.


Those attitudes tend to take on a life of there own.

Finding quiet, alone time with God, praying, reminding myself I am not in control of every and all situations, He is ... the foundation of my every day.

The Lord loves all His children and we are to simply love one another. One simple commandment. We are to enjoy and embrace all we have been blessed with ... and do everything with a thankful heart.

Despite all the activity, attitudes and sometimes down right craziness, there has been a peace about the days, our family, our home.


I love the long summer days and what it brings ...




I have worked quite a bit lately. Weddings and portraits. Most clients I have worked for in the past. Past family portraits now with new additions, second and sometimes even third pregnancies, children who I photograph yearly. Or a high school senior, who is now marrying, having a family of their own. A full circle. I like that.



That was the case of my last wedding. A family I worked for close to seven years ago, their son was now getting married. It was an elaborate, beautiful affair. A stunning setting and a young couple in love. They were fun and wanted fun photos. They gave me no boundaries and let me simply create.



I shot mostly with natural light and played with aperature settings for shallow or deep depths of field, depending on the what I wanted to do with the shot.


It was an awesome day ... one I was blessed to be a part of ....