Being in Awe

The reality of being in awe is something that will always bring me to a pause in life. About a month ago I had the privilege of taking photos of the Ford’s newest little addition to the family, and it was here that I was able to experience just this.

As we were all working together to bring a sense of peace to little Caleb, a moment of beauty in its’ purest form took place: the tender love of a mom. She was hearing the discomfort in her son and doing everything she could to bring him ease. Angela picked up Caleb and held him close to her heart. It was not the bouncing or the rocking that helped calm his anxious spirit, but rather the reassuring, “I’m here, momma’s here,” that finally settled him down into comforting serenity.

As I packed up my stuff later on and said my goodbyes I was certain of one thing, well two if we’re being honest… That Caleb has to be one the most handsome baby boys I have ever seen, and that God placed Caleb in the perfect family.

Crossing Paths

There are times in our lives when we cross paths with people that end up having a forever impression on us. With Bell and Shirley, that’s exactly what ended up happening.

When I first met these two back in March there was one thing that spoke far louder than what words could do, and that was their passion and love for each other! If you have ever met them you would know exactly what I mean. Bell and Shirley love each other in such a way that it literally brightens up a room when they enter it!

Any time that someone would even talk about Shirley in front of Bell, Bell’s smile would instantaneously grow from ear to ear and the glimmer in her eyes matched it just the same.

When they asked me to be their photographer for their special day I was incredibly humbled. I honestly couldn’t have asked for more perfect brides to have captured. From their first glimpses of each other to the final dance, it was truly an honor to be their photographer…and the eleven person salsa band didn’t hurt either.

Shirley and Bell, congratulations to you both on your very special day and enjoy a life together!

Summer Fun

One of my favorite parts of the year I would say would have to be summer. I love everything about it, from the nights getting longer, to cookouts, bonfires and iced coffees; though my favorite part about this season has to be the people that I get to see and how we spend time together.

This past weekend our country celebrated yet another Happy Birthday America! Complete with races, art fairs, parades and of course fireworks. Though each July 4th, would never even be complete without the opportunity to be around those that we love and see the smile that it all puts on their faces.

Below are some shots of a couple of the things that I can always count to bring joy to my heart, my nieces, Kaylie and Laura. They are the spitting image of what the love in my heart looks like and I am so great full to be able to capture their personalities each time I see them.

Hope you enjoy the pictures and remember to never stop capturing your candid moments in life.

Hops, Skips, and Jumps for Joy

Being a nanny means you get to have your fair share of soccer mom moments. There’s the get everyone buckled in so we can make the gymnastics session moment, followed by the shoving donut holes in their mouths for supper moment, and lastly the putting their hair in pony tails as owe rush out the door moment. All of the Mom’s and nannies out there know this scenario is all too familiar, though we all wouldn’t trade it for a minute!

Every time my little love bugs go to gymnastics at our local gym Mini Hops, they go into their sessions with excitement and energy, and eager to learn something new.  I love how the team encourages my girls to continue to persevere and never give up as you try your best each and every time.

A couple of weeks ago this amazing team of dedicated coaches and volunteers helped launch the Grand opening of its new location in Plymouth, MN! As I was there capturing all the little details, I couldn’t help but notice that same energy and excitement overfill the entire place. Even as little ones were crying from exhaustion from the jam packed fun they had, there was still a wonderful feeling of joy, love, and acceptance.

As a photographer, I not only feel blessed but honored to have been a part of such a great team and amazing once in a lifetime day. Thank you, Mini Hops, for this fantastic opportunity!

Times of Refreshment

There is a place that each of us I feel like can call home even if we haven’t grown up there. For me that place is the small yet wonderful town of Chetek, WI. Where a church can become your strength, friends turn into family and where anyone can help you get out of a ditch no matter what time of night it is.  

This past weekend as I spent some time with friends and family I became even more aware that this isn’t just a place to get away from the cities and stresses of life; rather it is a town where refined refreshment dwells.  A community where I know I can receive love, encouragement and wisdom in any situation; as well as new joy and peace when I leave.

There is a quote that I feel represents this rather well. It states…

‘Family isn’t always blood. It’s the people in your life that want you in theirs; the ones who accept you for who you are. The ones who would do anything to see you smile and who love you no matter what.’

I may not be an aunt by blood or have biological brothers and sisters but, the family that I have with these fantastic people, I wouldn’t trade for anything.