Erin & David are Married!

I have a special place in my heart for small intimate weddings, because that is exactly what Matt & I did when we got married.  We booked a bed & breakfast two hours away in the middle of nowhere and with just our family and closest friends we entered into a sacred commitment.  No hype, no drama, just love.

So when I booked Erin & David's intimate wedding I was excited to share in their special day.  It was perfect weather in Old St. Charles as the couple was all smiles and laughs as they made a lifelong commitment to one another surrounded by their families.

Thank you David & Erin for letting me share in your amazing day.

Baby Photo Contest!

Moms, here's your chance win $2000 in professional baby photography!  Click on the link below and be sure to share with your friends!

Baby Contest

The End is Now

Sitting in the hospital surrounded by blue and teddy bears, I couldn’t imagine why anyone wouldn’t want a dozen of these amazing bundles of joy.

Then, fast forward two years…“NO!” “I will NOT!”

As I stand staring at my bright-eyed angel flailing about on the floor in a fit of passion, I’m baffled how it all came down to this.  What happened to the coos and cuddles?  When did the giggles and drool turn into willful defiance and stubborn disobedience?

Lost in the daily routine of “making it through the day”, I missed the bigger picture.  I have a mission to send a responsible citizen into the world to fight for justice with moral character and a purpose higher than himself. 

So how does my wild, undisciplined toddler become that solid, world-changing adult? 

It starts today.  I must manage everyday with the end in sight.

Who do I want my little man to be?  What kind of character do I want him to have the day he walks out of my care? 

Do I want him to stand for truth?  Then starting today I must demonstrate truth in everything I do.  No longer is it good enough to parent the behavior.  I need to parent the heart. 

Seek out those who have gone down this road before us.  Educate yourself on child development and become passionate about raising the next generation.  The worst thing you can do for your heritage is to “wing it”. 

Be encouraged and master each day, for the end is now.

"Children are a gift from the LORD; they are a reward from him".  Ps. 127:3 (NLT)

An Impromptu Shoot and Marital Tension

So, last night on some crazy whim Matt set up all our studio lighting in our living room and proceeded to have an impromptu photo shoot with our good friend, Joanne.  We promised to give Jo more warning for her next shoot.

A funny little thing transpired during this event - marital tension.  My role as the background holder was not working for me or anyone else.  I had too much to say and I guess I was complaining too much about my arms getting tired.

Now switch places.  Matt was just as an opinionated background holder as I was.  I think at one point Joanne started singing "Kumbaya".  I'm just glad we have friends we feel comfortable enough around to be ourselves.  Well, finally after a few minutes of cherished and loving dialogue we turned out some stunning images of Joanne. 

Isn't life fun?  I think so.

   

Sometimes It's the Little Things

When the days get long and I get weary, sometimes it just takes a simple thing to keep me going. 

One of a Kind, Hunter Lily

On Valentine's Day 2008, Matt and I had a big love surprise.  We were pregnant with our third child in 3 years!  Never in a million years could we have expected our Hunter Lily and all the fun she would bring our family.  Sometimes it's those unplanned surprises that bring us such great joy!  

I cherish you, Hunter, and I always honor your fun-loving self!  God has amazing plans for your life.
xoxo 

Mommy

Brouck & Janie E-session

Brouck and Janie were such great sports braving the horrible St. Louis heat and humidity.  You guys are such a cute couple.  I can't wait to shoot your wedding in October!

I love this picture.  We got a shot with their favorite book. :)