thoughts.

My head has been swimming with several thoughts lately, and here are a few I'd like to share with you. Please take them with a grain of salt, but sometimes, we all need gentle reminders to 

take better care of ourselves and those around us.

* * * 
Slow down. 

Take a step back. Reflect.

Allow yourself to make mistakes. You are human.

Embrace imperfections - because that is what makes that something or someone unique. 

And those flaws - they are quite lovely if you take the time to look.

Hold on to those around you that much tighter. 

Enjoy and appreciate that they are there with you during both the beautiful and painful times. 

Take the time to notice.

* * *

(Photo from my recent and much needed visit to the Oregon coast)

welcome finley fay.

It is an amazing and heartwarming feeling to see friends become parents. There is just something about new parents – seeing their love for their child and also witnessing the deep love and respect that grows for each other through such a sea change. I first met Ronald and Brittany about a year ago when they contacted me about some photos of the two of them together. You may recognize these two lovelies from that shoot. Not long after that, I received the exciting news that their family of two would soon become three, or actually five, including Solo and Millie. We all welcomed their little one on January 8, 2011. Ronald and Brittany asked me to document the day Finley was born, which was a huge honor.  Unfortunately, I couldn’t be there to document this important day and felt terribly sorry and disappointed. I was on my way to visit family in Florida and even said to Brittany, “Now don’t you have that baby until I get back.” Brittany laughed it off with an attitude of “that will never happen,” and sure enough, Finley had a mind of her own (I think she gets that from her mama) and decided to make her debut three whole weeks early! I was so sad to not be able to capture this new life on day 1, but am thrilled I could capture this new family weeks later. Ron and Britt, I’m so happy to have met you and it is beautiful to see you as parents. I’m thrilled to meet your little daughter. Finley, welcome to the world sweet girl.  

(Please click on the photos to view larger. I think they look nicer that way). 

I even got to hold the little sweetheart.

Read all about little Finley on Brittany's laughter inducing blog.

Sweet poster designed by Ronald Cox.

Pretty pink pompoms by Kimbra of Oh My Goshman.

laura + devon: winter wonderland

Congrats to Laura + Devon on their engagement! These two share a love for winter sports and its surroundings, so we headed up to Timberline Lodge for their engagement shoot. As a native Texan, being in this kind of snow had me prancing like a gazelle. I was in absolute awe of the landscape.

With that said, when we got out of the car, we were met with gusty winds and it was blistering, so much so that it knocked me right over. Literally. After a little embarrassment and a few laughs, we all agreed that a bit of warmth and hot chocolate (of course) would solve any problems.  Devon couldn’t feel his ears. Some time in the cozy lodge was savored, and we then decided to brave the outdoors. Miraculously, everything had turned calm and incredibly quiet. These two are so sweet together, and we had a lot of fun amongst the snow-capped trees. I was a relieved and thankful photographer that the earlier weather had passed. I think these two lovebirds were happy about that too. Laura + Devon, you were such patient troopers in the snow. Laura, you even wore cute shoes! How did you do it? Thank you for a wonderful afternoon and I can’t wait for your wedding.

(Click on the photos to view larger. I think they look nicer that way).