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pretty cool stuff happening....

In the church parking lot - not panicking, at allLife, Love & Lemons {photography} has been really busy...  and, it doesn't appear to be slowing down any time soon.  So, that means the blog may have less personal 'stuff' and a lot more photography bragging! ;)   

We had our first Life, Love & Lemons Wedding this weekend - it was a blast - And the weather, OUTSTANDING! Chris and I got amazing shots - I can't wait to share them. The bride and groom were stunning, and the whole gang was a lot of fun.  We have our 2nd wedding in a couple of weeks and I can confidently say, we are ready!!  :)

On the party trolley (taken with the cell)

Yesterday, after a 14 hour wedding day - I wanted to do some relaxing, but had a few changes in my plans.  It involved running back to the reception hall, I had forgotten some much needed equipment (glad it was still there), dropping off rented equipment, and picking up my car that got left at the church.  I also squeezed in a super cool senior smiles session - I will do a full entry on it soon!  Here is a sneak peek: 

By the evening, John and I found time for a few cold beverages and enjoyed eating our take-out pizza by the river.  We watched the barges come through and ducks squrry as the sun went down.  It was perfect, almost.  

 

 Brayden made another trip to Virgina.   I feel like I am walking around in circles most of the time, always feeling like I am forgetting something.  Not having that little guy at my arms reach is hard to adjust to.  I know he is having so much fun and he will be home soon.  Until then, every morning I unconsciously turn the tv to the disney channel (172), when I had full and complete intention to put it on CMT (166).  Every. Morning.  And every time I do it, it starts my day out pretty rough...  because I miss him so much.  

Stay close by to catch all of the upcoming session posts!  

Hope you all enjoyed the beautiful weekend as much as we did! :) 

Talk soon! :)

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a mother's love

‎"A mother's love for her child is like nothing else in the world. It knows no law, no pity, it dares all things and crushes down remorselessly all that stands in its path."  ~ Agatha Christie

The truth about being a mom:

I love it more than anything in the world.  But, I sometimes struggle. I may, on occasion,  make up fake truths or tell partial ones to get the easy way out. Or, I embellish actions to prove significance, ... or maybe just to make a point.   I say or do things like:

"Boys have a penis.  Girls have babies"  I can't bare to say the 'v' word.  Someday, but not yet.  I don't know what I will say if I ever have a daughter.

When in doubt, I cry. Well, I pretend -   If you are being too rough or if you refuse to listen - I cry, obnoxiously.  You only care about 50% of the time.

"These cool shoes will make you as fast as Lighting McQueen!"  Last week it was my final attempt to persuade you to wear your new tennis shoes.  When it worked, you took off running and charging, just like Lighting McQueen.  I make a mental note to go straight for the favorite hero or animal for whatever particular phase you are in.  It keeps us both from nearly tears. 

"If you eat this watermelon, I will give you a cupcake"

"Ohh, you wanted a monster pancake, not a dinosaur pancake? Well. That's what this is! It's a monster.  Seriously - look at his crazy hair.  No, those are not dinosaur spikes, it is crazy monster hair!" 

I love it when you show me your muscles and tell me what a big, strong boy you are.  I smile proudly, but ache silently.  I am so blessed for a healthy child, time and God keep you growing and I love it.  But, I really wish I could hold onto this version of you.  Your innocence.  Your smile.  Your inquisitive mind.  Your smallness.  The way your hand fits in mine.  I love you growing, but I miss you little too. 

I wanted the all American family, you know, like the Cleavers.  I have cried to myself at night.  I have cried to friends.  I just want to do it right.  They say their due diligence and tell me what a good mom I am.  And my response is always the same, "I can do better.  I should be better. " 

We should eat healthier.

We should play outside more.

We should do more educational learning.

You should be potty trained by now.

You should sleep in your own bed.

I should be more patient.

The truth is, as hard as I am on myself, I know we are doing just fine.  Not based on unrealistic standards but because we have fun.  

I know because we love to read books.  You laugh that incredible child laugh when I do the animal sounds.   I act like a complete nut and you love it.  

I am conflicted about you sleeping in your own bed, because I love the way you snuggle.  And, even though I am horribly sleep deprived, I love that I get a sliver of the bed because you are sleeping sideways and your feet are sticking in my ribs.   I love to kiss your cheeks and neck to wake you up in the morning.  I love it when you smile with your eyes still closed.  

 

 

I love that you are learning respect of yourself and to have respect for others. 

I love that you are so sweet and you say things like "I just love it so much", "I just love you so much", and "Mommy has so beautiful eyes"

I know not because of my good intentions that sometimes fall short, but I know because I am your Mom and I love you.  I know because you love me.  

A mother's love is unmatched by any other. 

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the optimist creed - a self promise

Promise Yourself 

*To be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind.
*To talk health, happiness and prosperity to every person you meet
*To make all your friends feel that there is something in them.
*To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true.
*To think only of the best, to work only for the best, and to expect only the best.
*To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own.
*To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future.
*To wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile.
*To give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others.
*To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.
~Christian D. Larson

 

Somedays, it is hard to stay positive, to remain optimistic when it feels like others, and the world want you to fail.  But, those are only just thoughts. We have control over everything, as long as we hold onto the optimism in our own mind we can create our own life. We have the power over our own success or failure. The decision is ours.  

 

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Lemons, by Chris Bland

I have been meaning to post some of Chris' work for a while now.  And, there has been some recent additions to FB so, I thought I would highlight a few of his projects.  See below.  They have all turned out beautiful! 

I have to say, I haven't had my picture professionally taken since I was a Senior in High School.  I was nervous.  Chris mentioned that he had a surprise for me.  So, when I pulled up to our session, he had an old truck waiting for me!  It was a fantastic surprise - and a terrible tease...  I wanted to keep it!!  Check out the Lemons by Chris! To set a session up with Chris, email him at chris@lifeloveandlemons.com

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It goes too fast

My favorite memories of all vacations involve very little.  Usually a few meager items: bucket and shovel, towel, book, camera and a few snacks.  I have always enjoyed our family vacations to Michigan.  But, now that I have Brayden, the experience is completely different.  It isn't just about relaxing and building sand castles - we are building memories.  I snap as many pictures as I can, fearful that Brayden is still too young to remember these moments.    I can still hear it, the lingering laughter from the fun of that day.  I can still feel it.  I will live forever in those moments.  

I caught myself in the middle of this day doing two things that I haven't had the opportunity to do in a very long time.  I read a book.  A really great one.  I am going to blog about it ; )  And, I wore a bikini.  Both of which, I experienced guilt about.  A bikini isn't as becoming on me as it was prepregnancy (pre sixty pounds of skin stretching).  I realized as I was absolutely relaxing reading my book - that there were lots of kids running around.  Big kids.  Teenagers.  Mom's and Dad's were relaxing reading their books and magazines.  

 

John and Brayden were laughing so loud sitting amongst the waves I could practically hear their laughter over the crashing.  I realized, the day will come when I can read a book on the beach, but this isn't that day.   I decided to put down my book and join them, bikini and all.  

I was amazed at the on-lookers.  They too were reliving the moments from their little ones - watching us was taking them back in time.  They laughed right along with us as Brayden and I laughed and chased each other around the beach; running in and through the oncoming waves.  I saw Mom's in beach chairs, with teenage daughters sitting at their side.  It was evidence of the evolution of a relationship.   More than mom and daughter, but mom and friend.  There was another lady that was alone.  I guessed she was in her late 50's.  She stood and watched us for a long time.  Just stood there and smiled.  I can only imagine her feelings.  I could almost hear her thoughts.  She was silently telling me to hold onto this.  Hold onto him.  Don't let him grow.  Appreciate everything - It goes too fast.  She was telling me that she is evidence of time going too fast.  

Before long, I will be the 50's+ lady in the one piece suit and big brimmed sun hat watching another young mother chase her little man, her pride and joy - and I will be silently telling her, don't let him grow - it goes too fast.  

I was having a blast with Brayden, completely forgetting about the bikini discomforts through the laughing and playing.  I loved the onlookers too.   They were as much part of the experience, we all shared in the laughter.  Through their constant gaze and smiles was the reminder to me to be present in this day.

 

 

And what a day it was :)   

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Dear John {birthday tribute}

Today is the first birthday post to a non-family member.  So, it's kindof a big deal ; )  And, I am revealing my, eh hem... boyfriend.  :)  (which is an even bigger deal)! 

Here's John.  

Today is his birthday.  But, it isn't just any birthday.  It is the BIG 3-0!  John, who I have been teasing now for months about turning the thirties corner, isn't really in love with the idea of no longer being in his twenties. But, I think as the days go by, he will get use to it - and learn that it isn't much different.  And, as the days creep closer to me turning 30, he will love it more, because I won't be able to tease him about being old!

I am proud to say that I have known John for 29 years.  His parents and my parents are friends.  We laugh a lot about the intertwining roads that have lead us merging together.  We discuss the annual updates that we would receive after our mothers Saturday lunch.  And we smile that, although our lives are different than we each envisioned, we know they are unfolding just as they should be. 

To my friend of 29 years, that I am just starting to know - Happy 30th Birthday!

 

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Snider Session {love this family}!

I just love this family!  I took their pictures for the first time for the Father's Day Surprise Session - see their pictures from that session here.  They are all around just a very sweet and clearly, adorable family - and their girls are breath taking! 

 

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The Prettiest Sister {birthday tribute}

I grew up in a house full of girls.  I have 3 wonderful sisters.  We love each other fiercely.  We have each others backs, always looking out for one another.  My sisters, they are my best friends - right along with our Mom.  

With all of this love, there might be some competitive tendencies too.  A few common conversations between all of the siblings is "Mom loves me the most" or "I am Mom's favorite".  We compare recent activities, new clothes or shoes, grades in school, and children's accomplishments.  There may be the occasional discussion about , "Who is the prettiest sister?"  The adoring spouse or significant other always answers as they are supposed to, "Well, you are of course".   We each smile pridefully by their response - and give each other a wink.  Marcy never participates ;) 

Makenzie, the youngest sister, is unique.  She is the fiestest of us all.  And today is her 21st birthday. Makenzie has always had a fighters spirit - I don't blame her.  At one point, she was the youngest of 5. She appears to be quiet to those who are just getting to know her - but, once you know her - stand back!  She will tell you just what she is thinking at the drop if a dime.  Makenzie and I have a lot in common.  The most apparent is our love for music - we get it from Mom, and Mom is more than happy to have 2 daughters to go to concerts with.  Makenzie loves quotes and photography.  Most important, she loves her family.  She loves us all with pride.

With all of her self certainty, there are a few things that Makenzie hasn't learned about herself.  A few lessons that she will learn as these inevitable birthdays continue to come and pass along with the years.  

You are more beautiful than you know. Not because of the external beauty (although you are lovely on the outside too) but because of your heart.  Because you want to rescue every animal and person that is need.  Because you have a givers heart, a beautiful heart.  

You are more determined than you know.  You are so cautious, almost obsessively.  But, what you don't realize is how you fight through these discomforts.  Every obstacle that you have come across you have conquered.  Do you know that?  I want you to take confidence from that and know that there isn't anything you can't do.  

You have tremendous faith in God.  Keep it and live it.  Let go of some of your worries and know that he is in your corner, always.

I respect you and am so proud of you! I know you can do anything - you just have know within yourself that you can do it, whatever it is - make it happen! 

So, to the youngest sister, and debateable prettiest ; ) happy birthday! We all love you! 

 

 

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Different, but the same

One of my favorite things to do on vacation is look for shells, rocks, and anything else that has been moved from the ocean floor and has made its way to rest along the shoreline.  I sometimes feel silly looking and searching - it's what kids do, right?  Well, group me in with the littles - because I love it.  

I think me and the littles love it differently.  They love the beauty. Children are so perfect they see all of the rocks and shells as beautiful.  That's what makes watching the kids search and hunt so peaceful.  We experience the glory along side them of their new found treasure, in the beauty of their find.  I like all of the pretty ones too, but I really love to look at how they have changed.  I imagine what they looked like before they tumbled along, pushed by the waves.  

 

I found a piece of glass while searching with Brayden for some heart shaped rocks.  But, it wasn't the sharp peice of broken glass as it started out as.  It was softer, and smoother around the edges.  It was different and changed, but beautiful all the same.  I am sure it faced some tough tides along the journey. 

This journey, this life comes with strong winds and tough tides.  Some days are hard to weather.  Some days it is hard to roll with waves. I keep replaying the sound of the crashing waves in my mind - trying to find calm among the turbulence.  I keep in mind that one of these days, I will make it to the shore.  I will be changed, and smoother around the edges.   Different, but the same - something beautiful will remain.

 

 

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The Resort

I went on vacation.  It was perfect, well - as perfect as it can be with an almost 3 year old.  I don't think I can even convey how wonderful it felt to get away, I am sure most of you can relate to that feeling - just saying the word 'vacation' gives, I am sure, almost anyone warm fuzzy feelings.  This vacation put me totally behind in work - but, it was worth it.  And, it left me longing for another get away, sooner rather than later.  My 30th birthday is just around the corner...  sounds like a great excuse for a little leave.  

Our journey is going to be divided into 4 separate posts - because, we did so much - and I took over two thousand pictures!  I can't possibly put them all into one post.  

Vacation Post #1: The Resort

I can honestly say, I have not stayed in many nice hotels.  I am cheap, and it has never been that important to me.  While researching, I looked at some condos but wasn't totally sure on location and what the area would be like.  I stumbled onto this beautiful resort, and my gut said 'book it'.  So, I did.  And, I have to say - I couldn't have been happier there. We stayed at Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina.  As soon as we pulled up I was thinking, I don't know if we belong here...  this place is fancy!  Throughout our 5 day stay it was wonderful.  The area was quiet.  The staff was beyond courteous ( I have a few good stories to prove that - see below).  It was just a ferry ride into down town Charleston or a quick 5 minute drive over the bridge.   

The weather was beautiful - a few rainy hours but the sun had no problem taking care of us most of the time.  And the nights - they were perfect.  Check out the pictures below - and a few short stories that accompany them. 

Resort:

I called on our drive to ask for an upgraded room.  We decided that after Brayden was asleep that it would be relaxing to sit out on a balcony and listen to the waves and quiet.  When I called, I explained to the Customer Service lady the reason for my request.  She said, "I understand.  Don't worry about the extra cost, this is a complimentary upgrade."  And, the view was incredible!

 Harbor:

 Pier:

This night on the pier was not our intended plans for the evening.  We were going to drive into Charleston and eat some delicious seafood.  However, our plans were changed when we got to the car, got seat belted in, and then...  the car wouldn't start.  Sigh.  "Well," I said to John, "You can fix it now, or fix it tomorrow.  Either way, B and I will be at the beach."  So, he tried to get a jump with no avail - the battery was dead, completely.  He decided to tackle getting a new battery the next morning and he joined us on the beach for an evening of crab searching.  It was a change in plans - but, I wasn't complaining.  

John had a heck of a time getting the car running.  Asking for many favors from the maintenance staff, from attempting to jump the car, twice - to borrowing their tools.  They were a blessing and helped when it wasn't required of them.

 Lessons on sand:

No matter how many times parents say "Don't throw sand", kids don't listen.  After pleading several times to stop, and he still didn't listen, I sat back and let him learn for himself :)  

 A few of my favorites:

 

...more tomorrow! ;)

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living my fairy tale

I think I keep repeating myself...  I AM SO BUSY!!  I am smiling though, most of the time ;) 

I feel like my mind is so cluttered with a world wind of thoughts, ideas, and of course, worry.  I have so many exciting happenings coming up that I can hardly contain myself:

  • We have two weddings coming up.  Our real 'firsts' with Life, Love & Lemons!  The excitement is unexplainable (mixed with some nervousness too).  I am researching constantly - making sure I don't miss a thing.  I want every detail covered.  
  • I am behind in some marketing and even further behind on my furniture painting.  A long to do list, that grows daily. 
  • I have been investigating a studio.  That just about takes my breath away with anticipation (mixed with some nervousness too).  I dream about what it will look like - how to set it up and how to stay ontop of everyday life, without being consumed by something that is more than a business, but a passion.  
  • I have session bookings through October - that keeps me smiling - and gives me an excuse to shop for new props!!  I love that! I still have available slots!  Book your sessions today! ;)

 

During my daydreaming - these are the many things I am obsessing about.  Quietly cultivating an action plan for my growing dream.  I have  scattered thoughts of needed grocery items, laundry that needs to be done, ... and how badly my floors need to be vacuumed.  

And then there is Brayden, my little guy. With his big brown eyes and his new favorite phrase, "I want to snuggle Mama!"  All of the planning, coordinating, organizing, detailing - stops.  We color and pick books to read, he LOVES reading books.  And, I love reading to him.  His laughter and silliness calms my mind, and melts my heart.  

I have to continue reminding myself that all of this, all of the aspirations I have will happen, and I will make sure of it. But, I can't loose site of the really important stuff - snuggling and reading.  Someday, to soon, Brayden will have bigger dreams then just 'snuggling mama'.  I forget in the day to day while planning my next move that I am in the middle of the best part of my life, being Brayden's Mom.

"Once in awhile, right in the middle of an ordinary life, love gives us a fairy tale" -unknown

 

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"When you marry one sister..." {belated birthday}

Life is busy.  And, it keeps getting busier.  This is a true fact that no matter how much wishing and procrastinating - life decides to keeps us on our toes.  That is how it has felt lately.  But, I won't complain...  well, atleast too not much ; )

A sad truth, my memory is bad.  I knew when I started my birthday blog posts that inevitably, I would forget to post about someone.  My saving grace sister, Makenzie (who's birthday is in a few weeks - so, I am sure she is thinking, "don't you dare forget my birthday") sent me a sweet reminder last night, "I know you have been gone and are very busy, but don't forget to do Al's birthday blog."  *Insert a few not so good words in here*  I replied with a "thank you!"  

Al - where, oh where, do I begin?  The path that leads to the relationship that my brother-in-law and I have started a little bumpy.  I, being the protective, opinionated younger sister, who really tried to act like the big sister, often gave Al my two cents.  And Al, being who he is, gave it right back to me.  After a few tough months, and realizing that he wasn't going away - ever, I think we both realized we had to join forces or it would end badly.  So, we did.  And now, I don't think I could ever repay all of the graces Al and my sister Marcy have done for me.  From randomly giving me money while I was in college - to paying my way to Vegas to celebrate my graduation - to moving me countless times, they have always been there for me.  They have been the fighting duo that has supported me, even when I know most often they didn't agree with my decisions.  Al has a famous quote in our family "When you marry one sister, you get them all!"  And, he has stood true to that statement.  He is always there, even reluctantly, to help when we need him.  If it is with a moving truck and trailor, or just a kind word with a hug.  He is always there.  

This duo, Marcy and Al - they celebrated their 10 year anniversary just this weekend.  Has it only been 10 years?! ;) Al has always been sentimental - and, has always wrote the sweetest things for my sister.  He loves her - and will admit to anyone - that she is his life, and best friend.  He shared with me the letter he wrote her for their anniversary...  and, I may have emailed it to myself - to share with everyone.  I will just share the last line...

"...As I told you ten years ago today, I will always be here for you. No matter what it is that you need; whether it is someone to listen to you, to laugh with you, to cry with you, or just someone to grow old with you, I will always be here for you. You are my best friend and I promise I will always be yours!"

Happy belated Birthday Al!  So sorry that I forgot...  Thank you for all of your love and support through these past years.  Our entire family is blessed to have you!

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Noah is 1 !

I got the opportunity to photograph my cousins adorable son.  He was totally cooperative, even through a missed nap.  His Mom (my cousin April) and Grandma (my Aunt Ann) were there encouraging the laughter by singing songs and clapping.  We had fun - and editing, oh my goodness - the cuteness just wouldn't stop!!  
Scroll and Enjoy! 


Last but not least; Noah and his Mama! 

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Why don't friends with kids have more time?

I was going to blog about our trip to the zoo last weekend.  However, I am in kindof a bum mood. Brayden is in Virginia visiting his wonderful family - And, I know he is going to have a glorious time - but, I miss him.  And, I feel lost without him.  To be honest, putting up all of the pictures of us having so much fun will just make my heart ache worse.  I blogged about his last visit to VA here.  

So instead, because it just so happens to be the mood I am in today - I am going to comment on something that is being passed around on the trusty old Facebook newsfeed.  

A different blogger shared an article - and, I of course read it - and loved it.  And I thought, gosh - I have been there.  I have had the people that dare say, "I don't understand? - Megan has time to go out.  She has people (lots of family) that can watch Brayden.  She uses it as an excuse to not go out."  Naturally, this irritates me.  Instead I smile and swallow it when I really want to fire back - "You don't have kids.  You don't have a clue."  Here is the article (Tell Me About It by Carolyn Hax Tucson, Arizona | Published: 06.05.2007)

 

When I first moved back home from Virginia, I was working from home - while watching Brayden.  I squeezed my work hours  in during the morning hours, naps, and late at night.  My late work hours came much later, because I had a second job that was an evening shift.  I would pick my sleeping son up from my family members house, I would gently put him in his bed - praying that he wouldn't wake up... because I had to spend another 2 hours working.  Also, on the evenings I wasn't working, I was in class 2 nights a week.  So, in between taking care of a 2 year - that nothing can hold their attention for more than 5 minutes - and making sure they aren't into something that could hurt them, or eating something they aren't supposed to - I worked 2 jobs, went to class, studied, mowed the lawn, did the dishes, laundry, laundry, and more laundry...  I was TIRED.  I did this with no help.  No husband or significant other to take out the trash or help unload a car full of groceries.  No one to watch the baby for 10  minutes so I could take a shower.  My chaos has calmed in some areas and has picked up in others.  But, the simple truth is being a parent takes selflessness.  It takes dedication to developing a person, and praying all along the way you don't screw it up.  It means smiling and playing when all you feel like doing sometimes is crying - but, you can't - because little ones need happy and security.  I wasn't looking for a pity party - I was wanting understanding, not critisism. It still happens.  People want to get together for a happy hour - sure that sounds like fun! - but, my kid has been at daycare for 9 hours - and I am sure he feels as exhausted by the end of the day as I do.  And, I miss him.  I want to make dinner (not really, I hate to cook), I want to play or go to the park, I want to read books and snuggle on the couch.  It isn't just because my child is my obligation.  It is because he is the highlight of my day, not a glass beer / wine. 

I have had friends fall away - disappear out of my life with no effort.  I assume, they think I needed to make more of one.  They never stopped by just to say hi.  They never called or texted to see how I was holding up through some pretty major changes in my life.  I could have gone out to dinner with them (completely not relaxing trying to get a 2 year old to sit in a high chair for 45 minutes to an hour) - or made my way to their house - but, little ones have early bed times.  They like the comforts of their books, stuffed animals, and bed.  To them it sounds so easy - but, then again - they don't know. 

I stop and think about times in my life when I have been hurt - this one, it cuts deep.  To be honest, it bothers me everyday.  I am trying to let it go.  But, I have a few that have remained my friends through everything - time, years, distance, children or none - and they stay true.  Actually, they seem to call just when I need them to - like a sixth sense, or maybe, just true friends.  

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taking deeper roots {living and learning}

I have tried to map out my life.  every detail.  If there is one thing I have learned, life doesn't work that way.  It doesn't go 'as planned'.  I am learning to be ok with that.  I get down on myself when things get off course. 

The past 2 days I needed some escape, some relaxation.  I needed to do something to get me out of my own head - even if it is just for a few hours.  So, I went for the comforts of my childhood home.  That is always my safe place.  I can go there and do absolutely nothing except watch Brayden play and laugh and it does the trick.  It lifts me from my slump.  

I made a few observations during my visit.  

 

We have had a few storms here in the Midwest - but, very little rain.  We need rain.  Bad.  The wind storm shook the trees, and left a lot of fruit on the ground.  So, we picked up buckets full of fallen apples and pears that couldn't hold on.   It made me sad.  There was a lot of fruit that would have been delicious, had it been given some more nurturing, but it didn't work out that way.  I picked a few pears off the ground.  A few bruises, but still had potential.  I thought maybe a few days on the window sill, some extra nurturing from the sun, and they just might make it.  Those pears made me think of my dreams and plans for the future.  They get shaken up by the storm, by multiple storms.  Some fall away and have to be tossed.  Then, there are some that may be bruised - but, with some nurturing can still make it.  And yet, there are those that no matter how bad the storm, how strong the wind - they cling on.  They hold strong.  Determined to come to fruition. 

 

 

Looking around at the very dry ground - and walking ontop of crispy brown grass, It is hard to see how the damages from mother nature can ever be repaired.  Corn and soybeans are my families livelihood - the drought is hard to stomach.  But, the corn is growing.  Soybeans are growing.  They are determined.  They are resilient.    As too, are my parents.  They have (unfortunately) been down this road a few other times.  I can still recall the drought of '88.  I was only 5, but I remember running my fingers along the cracks of the hard, dry ground.  Not really knowing the magnitude of the hurt, but feeling that it wasn't good.  Best of all, I remember dancing in the rain when mother nature finally decided we had waited long enough.  That's life.  Through the storms, through the wind and rain (or lack of rain) we all learn how to stand our ground and hold tight.  As you look around, it is easy to see we aren't alone in it.  The corn, the beans, the apples, and pears - they are not alone, they share the trouble with those around them - and they weather it; together.

 

"Storms make trees take deeper roots" - Dolly Parton

Here are some (cell ) pictures from our relaxing evening.

The stare down

The difference between adults and kids:

We see a hose with a hole; kids see opportunity for fun!


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Roberts Family, 56 years in the making

There are people in life that come and go - and then there are some that leave a lasting impression forever - Katrina and Nick are two of those people.  The respect I have for them runs deep - even if it is separated by time and miles.  They have both given me something that I will hold onto forever.

Katrina asked me to do family pictures, all of the family was together, and that doesn't happen as often as she would like.  Here is the Roberts family, 56 years in the making:

4 Generations:

1st Grand-Baby (She isn't spoiled, at all)!

 

Katrina and Guy have been married for 34 years!

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Sunsets and Family Smiles

What a busy weekend!  How did yours go?  Busy?  Relaxing?  I feel like summer is starting to wind down, and I have a lot to squeeze in.  I am sure we all feel that way.  So, I will get in what I can  - and still take time to enjoy this hot wonderful weather!  

I have a lot to post about!  So, to start it off - I have the Palmatier Family!  I loved the location and the sun setting - but, most of all - what an adorable family!  The girls were a hoot!  And, I think we all had fun!

See highlights below!  They will also be in the Gallery in Family Smiles!

 

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