Three Nuts In The Bluegrass

... insta'wha ...

2012-02-04T12:21:00.001-08:00

Cheating a bit with my IG's from the last two weeks of February. Enjoy. I know that having my iPhone around has been awesome as I can snap photos and videos of everything and build a nice little digital memory book for V to look back on!

... the kid ...

2012-01-10T13:41:00.000-08:00

Just some updated photos of V.

... insta'wha ...

2012-01-05T06:45:00.000-08:00

Here's what we've been up to:
(1) Trevor got a bacon calendar.
(2) Movie night with photog friends.
(3) Homemade meatballs.
(4) Finally a spot of snow. Short lived.
(5) Christmas take down, only one casualty.
(6) Loving my new MacBook Air. Excited for Vegas.
(7) Nerd night with friends, Fluxx style.
(8) Chico, Jami's furkid.
(9) My new hootie from my mom.
(10) Published in a foreign magazine called Gaga.
(11) Vaughn and I on Christmas day.
(12) Vaughn's new Cooper Mini Car.
(13) Trevor and I on Christmas Eve, so nice to have him home.
(14) My boys.
(15) Vaughn. <3

... christmas day ...

2011-12-26T13:35:00.000-08:00

... insta'wha ...

2011-12-23T07:01:00.000-08:00

Instagrams from the last few weeks.

... elf on the shelf ...

2011-12-15T08:30:00.001-08:00

The Elf McMansion...

... elf on the shelf ...

2011-12-13T07:06:00.001-08:00

Glitter Bombed Owlie

... elf on the shelf | letter from Santa ...

2011-12-12T06:42:00.001-08:00

... insta'wha ...

2011-12-11T08:12:00.001-08:00

... ilford 3200 | bumpin' up the grain baby ...

2011-12-10T13:15:00.001-08:00

So just a few scans from the F100, shot on Ilford 3200. I love the big chunky grain of this film, but it is most definitely for certain occasions and NOT others. SO without further ado, here are the ones I liked from the roll.

... tree surfing ...

2011-12-10T09:16:00.000-08:00

Mr. Elf is tree surfing. On our new "M" ornament.

... elf on the shelf ...

2011-12-09T07:35:00.000-08:00

Today V woke up to a special little message, "Merry Elf-Mas."

... insta'wha ...

2011-12-06T12:34:00.001-08:00

... wedding ...

2011-12-06T12:22:00.001-08:00

... the marfas ...

2011-12-06T12:20:00.001-08:00

*warning, very chock-full-o-love post ahead*

You know how in your adult life, you have friends that come and friends that go. It is pretty easy to spot the friends that you have things in common with and you know that once your situations evolve or change, so will your friendship. Then, you have those few friends - the "Marfas," as I like to call them - that will always be there. You can talk every day or once a year, but it is still just the same. No matter how weird or strange, you just are friends. You can fall right back into your groove.

Thankfully, I have that in my friend, Jami. I know, I know, it's a personal post on my blog - and a gooey thankful one at that (pardon me while I sneeze glitter all over this shiny lovey post). I feel like I owe a lot to Jami for this past year and what better way than to call her out in front of the whole corner of the world that reads my blog - mostly our industry peers. She is really what it means to be a "photo friend" or a "photographer who helps other photographers." She is more than just my photo BFF, she has become family! Thank you Jami - for the year's worth of experience, the sanity you provide while entertaining V during our shopping and lunch trips, and being a sounding board for what has become my best year to date. I owe you a heap!

And for fun... an image I took while we were at a recent photographer get together. She didn't know when I popped out the film camera (to just play around) that I had alternative motives for the images! Even tonight while they were over for "nerd games" (a whole different post) I had her quickly give me the two cents on which one she liked so I could post it! Sneaky, sneaky, I know!

... traditions ...

2011-12-06T12:17:00.001-08:00

Having a three year old son, it is fun to see what kind of traditions from our own childhood we can incorporate into our little family. Holidays are most definitely one of those times where traditions seem to pour out of the wood work. Some are kept, some are never to be seen again. A new one we started that is all our own this year is the "Elf on the Shelf." After debating buying one because I find it slightly creepy that this little plastic doll is watching you and then comes to life to go tell Santa what you did that day (what?!), I gave in. No worse than Toy Story, right? It may have been those adorable puppy dog eyes of the aforementioned three year old that melted my heart into purchasing one at our local Barnes and Nobel. So, without further ado, our little Mr. Elf and what he has been up to these past few days.

... the elf on the shelf ...

2011-12-03T21:37:00.001-08:00

It's day one for our little elf here. Vaughn named him George. We had a whole list of names - but George was the one he chose... so here is George, he just got back from reporting today's wishes and good behavior to Santa Clause. He is "dusting" the photo of V and Santa. After all, he does love the big man in the red suit!

... vernal snippits | quickie post ...

2011-10-07T21:46:00.000-07:00

Here are some quickie uploads (brought over from FB) from our trip to Vernal - week one. Our friend, Jami, came out to visit as well and see where we are moving. We are heading into the weekend and week two. This coming weekend I am shooting a wedding with Lacy Lange and then speaking at the SmugMug Meetup out here about branding and boutique business. I am super excited to share with everyone here in Vernal and get to know the market a little better out here in Utah. Enjoy the photos....

... frogs on the farm ...

2011-08-18T07:10:00.001-07:00

Jami (my BFF) took us to a special spot for a shoot out based around lighting. There were a ton of frogs, not an embellishment... there really were a ton! So, I took a few shots of one of the critters for V. I knew he would be excited to see it and sad he missed it.

... the first day of the rest of your life ...

2011-08-17T11:21:00.000-07:00

Dear V, Tuesday started your first step towards your education and you loved every stinkin' minute of it. You are so incredibly smart spelling and writing your own name. Throw in the addition and subtraction problems and the few words you can read and I can tell you take after your dad. Smart as a whip. Right now you can read, "Duck Goes Potty" all by yourself - so you read it to me every night.Love you so much little mister, Mom (and Dad too!)

... play dough ...

2011-08-13T09:16:00.000-07:00

So, there were bribes of the potty nature (WAHOO, officially PT'ed here, sheesh!) for the V man to get a new play dough set. He is obsessed right now with play dough, paint, writing his letters, writing his name and chalk. Pretty much anything school related. My little booger is super excited to be starting school on Tuesday. Here are some photos of him enjoying his prize for being completely dependable in undies for the past two weeks!

... utah | part one ...

2011-07-28T14:56:00.000-07:00

Here are some photos from our Utah trip. This is part one - before Monroe. Part two will come later...

Waiting on the plane...

Our drive up to Vernal...

Vaughn got to ride horses and do plenty of other fun things too!

Mooch even got a little photography time...

A bit of fun in the garden, four wheelin' and playhouses...

Look for more from our weekend in Monroe soon!

... okay okay ...

2011-07-28T08:49:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, I know. Look for a new post soon! The images are being uploaded from our trip to Salt Lake, Vernal and Monroe for Pioneer Day. The weekend was quite a blast. V even told me it was the "best vacation of me life, mommy." I guess that means it was good. He got to ride a horse, drive a tractor, ride in a parade and throw candy and a few other fun things. I got to finally scout out our future home and get a better idea of my plan of attack! LOL.

... busy busy girl makes sucky sucky blogger ...

2011-07-12T13:50:00.000-07:00

Okay everyone... I am a total slacker and if you will direct your attention to www.ravenmathis.com, you will totally see why. I have been a busy girl - shooting weddings, after the aisles, engagements and a few families. I have also been writing articles for I Heart Faces, an online photography blog. This month I am speaking to the Louisville SmugMug User Group about Branding. It will be fun to test it out, as I am going to be presenting the same material in October to a group in Utah. This is what I look like most days, head in cell phone returning emails.

{Photo courtesy of Missy Brown, taken at a recent SmugMug}

... newport aquarium ...

2011-06-10T07:59:00.000-07:00

My friend Jami and I like to go on mini adventures. Usually this means leaving V with T while we choose various things to photograph. This trip though, small child is required.

We took a quick jaunt up to the Newport Aquarium in Cincy. Here are some of my photos from the day...

... blue pancakes ...

2011-05-17T15:49:00.000-07:00

Vaughn thought it would be fun to have blue pancakes so I dug through the cabinet and found some Wilton's food coloring and *pop* we had SUPER MEGA HUGE blue pancakes (V's words).

... oaks ...

2011-05-07T05:42:00.000-07:00

Friday is Oaks Day here in Kentucky. It is the "Run for the Lillies." It is traditionally a Pink Out that recognizes all those who have fought breast cancer.

I was lucky enough to be asked to photograph a bachelor party at Oaks - so of course I said I would go. They loved having us so much that they asked us back for Derby today, but alas, I had a previous commitment -- bummer!!

Here are a few snapshots from the day -- my client was the fabulous VP of WPPI - George!!

.... v is 3 ...

2011-05-07T05:29:00.000-07:00

Here are some recent photos of V. I can't believe he will be 3 at the end of the month!

All the things V is "into" or "likes" right now....

... easter sunday, snapshots ...

2011-04-24T12:44:00.000-07:00

... phoenix ...

2011-04-20T06:36:00.000-07:00

... frazier wedding with Jami Guess ...

2011-03-22T14:06:00.000-07:00

Jami Guess, from jguess photography, sure does not lie when she says she has the best brides. From the minute we arrived at The Frazier International History Museum to the last shot of the day, Valarie and Jeff's wedding was so much fun!

Thank you again, Jami, for letting me second shoot for the day. You are such a dear friend and a joy to work for! It was a wonderful experience! Be sure to check out Jami's blog for more images from the day.

Here is just a snippet for the shots I caught on Saturday, for the full post go to my LMMP Blog or my SmugMug Gallery:

... sunday & counting down to Az ...

2011-03-20T16:56:00.000-07:00

Hanging out with V today after church. Playing around with the camera.

... mom, help me please ....

2011-03-12T20:40:00.000-08:00

Poor, poor Cicero. He is loved and adored by V. All V wants to do is snuggle with 'Ro or pet him, but 'Ro will have none of that these days. V can actually make him sit, lay down and stay - but only with the promise of a treat. It's quite cute. Well, today, I actually caught the stinkers laying down in the sun for a snuggle -- then 'Ro tried to play dumb and gave me the big saucer eyes of "Help me mom, bubby has me trapped." Not buying it for a minute Cicero... nope.

... booger ...

2011-03-09T18:12:00.000-08:00

So, I'm back and have settled back into the Kentucky life. Took some fun images of V just messing around the other day. We are finally out of diapers - phew! Getting all ready to second shoot for a photog friend here, then the Sandy Puc & Jerry Ghionis Passion tour, April is our Arizona vacation to visit my family & teach a mentor session and I have a wedding in Pennsylvania this June! Lots and lots of fun things coming my way! I can't wait. Enjoy these snapshots of V.

wppi - the parties and the people

2011-02-27T19:57:00.000-08:00

Please pinch me people for it seems as though this whole glorious week was a dream. I mean, a year ago, I never imagined I would be at WPPI Vegas. Heck in September I was just counting my lucky stars I could go to the road trip -- now, the main event is a staple in my yearly trecks. Mom, mark your calendar, you are invited to come keep your grandson company while I head off to Vegas in 2012 (figured I would put my bid in now since you are a busy woman!). So, while I am still pinching and planning my attack on this year as a photographer - I leave you with some images of my amazing adventures at WPPI!

Me and the [B]ecker!

Jami and I at "O" at the Bellagio.

Elis Ellis (of BRI) and I at the BRI booth during the tradeshow.

Me, Jerry and Melissa Ghionis - Melissa is such a sweetie! I can't wait to see them again when the tour comes to Louisville. Look forward to chatting again!

Jami (JGuess), Lacy (LacyLange) and I (LMMP) were the three amigos the whole trip. I loved every minute I hung out with these two.

This is my favorite photo from the ENTIRE trip. Love Jami's face here and it's just perfect to describe our trip -- and this was the first night!

And of course, we can't leave out this image of Becker (thebecker.com), Me, Lacy (lacylange.com) and Sachin Khona (sachinkhona.com). These guys were great too, and again - sorry Sach for inviting the vegetarian to a steak house. :) Glad you came anyways! It was ever so fun to pick your brain! You are such a talented photographer -- and I am still giggling that you are an accountant by day. I couldn't imagine my dad picking up a camera and rockin' it (for those of you confused, he is a bean counter as well).

wppi neon museum shoot

2011-02-27T19:24:00.000-08:00

Here are some images from my personal project I did out in Las Vegas during WPPI. Check out the professional blog for more in depth detail! This is just the images from getting ready and the actual shoot.

... kid won't give up the pjs so I cut them...

2011-02-11T20:15:00.000-08:00

Yeah, I am a mom like that. Word. :)

... sit there & don't make that face ...

2011-02-08T14:32:00.000-08:00

I love Trevor, dearly. Yes, I do. But -- he is so sick of the camera and modest about his Zoolander good looks (lol) that when asked to be placed as a fill in I get quite the funny faces. Like this one:

And then there is V - who thinks he is mommy's personal model. Which, okay, he is, but the kid is so darn cute and he knows it...

... two little monkies ...

2011-02-05T08:03:00.000-08:00

Vaughn has a new purpose for the couch pillows - his own personal "cheese pit." For those who have taken gymnastics, a cheese pit is a foam pit with little orange blocks of foam that you jump into. Usually a treat for the little ones.

Being the ~~awful~~ super cool mom I am, I let V do some jumping. Trevor got home from work and decided to join the fun. Me, well, I stuck to manning the camera (or is that womanning?).

And one of T for good measure. I am really diggin' the 85!

Don't Get It Twisted...

2011-01-31T07:27:00.000-08:00

For every adorable photo I get of V (like in the post below) I also get photos like these:

Wayfarers Look Good On Anyone

2011-01-31T07:23:00.000-08:00

I am convinced the reason I love my wayfarer sunglasses is because they look great on any face shape (and I have an odd one). So, it's no surprise that when I found a pair in V's size, I snatched them up (last year @ GAP). He loves sunglasses - no surprise there as so do T and I - and these are his favorite pair.

The New Gym

2011-01-31T07:19:00.000-08:00

Check out my "gym." Since I love to spin, but have a huge aversion to snotty daycare with workers who sit around and gossip instead of watching the kiddos... we invested in our own spin bike. Which - I love even more! It's so nice to get back into the routine and V is happy because it gives him some quality time with Dora without Mommy interrupting him, or I can get up before V wakes up and start my day off with a boost of energy!

got some new glass

2011-01-28T18:41:00.000-08:00

I had some new lenses arrive today and grabbed V to check them out. Here are some shots from today. The kid loves water, so washing his hands is always fun!

moooooooooooooostachieeeeeee!

2011-01-25T17:07:00.000-08:00

I couldn't decide which one I liked best... so here is both the color and b&w version of Mr. Mustachio'ed V.

Right On Target

2011-01-21T10:24:00.000-08:00

I love Target. Not like it is any big secret. Trevor and I have been going to Target just to walk around and get out of the house since our dating days. We love all the fun stuff. Seriously -- if we won the lottery, we'd be those millionaires with a house straight out of Target. It's fun, functional, and you can get twice as much.

Now that mister V has come along - Target is that much more fun. I have an excuse to go down the matchbox car aisle, browse the baby clothes (without looking like a dummy or lost aunt), and stick my kid in nostalgic vintage t-shirts. You can image how happy I was to see some at OldNavy as well - their selection is a little harder to pick through to get the good ones over the "token" vomit inducing character shirts... but when you have the time (or a willing child) - it can be gold for those shirts of yesteryear.

Oh my love for those vintage t-shirts. I am not a fan of character wear (unless you are at Disney - then it's a must), Thomas the Tank engine shirts make me gag no matter what the design, as do Looney Tunes and Winnie The Pooh. BUT - I have no idea why vintage ac/dc and Ewok shirts are just plain adorable to me. Especially when thrown on with a thermal henley under it or button down over it!

So, without further ado - the newest addition (by V's request) to his vintage-style t shirt collection....

Starting to loose interest at about this point...

And, he's gone! LOL.

{wow, a lot of "..." and "-" in this post, sorry, I write like a middle schooler!}

Stinker Got A Haircut

2011-01-18T10:33:00.001-08:00

Everyday - looking more like a big boy and less like my toddler! Some snapshots of his new do. The long hair just wasn't cuttin' it anymore!

For My Fellow Photogs

2011-01-12T11:00:00.000-08:00

Hey there. If you aren't a photographer or interested in photography - skip this. Next post down is most likely family stuff. :)

But, for those photographers who are looking to upgrade and don't quite understand the difference between the benefits of a full vrs crop frame camera... take a look at this quick photo example.

Here are some (while not technical by any means because I shot them off quick to show examples) examples using my d700 in DX (Crop) and FX (full frame) mode. Anyone who tells you full frame is a myth is bonkers and they most likely have never shot one or don't understand the differences.

All were taken at the exact same distance from the subject. They are as follows...

50mm f/1.4 lens @ f/1.8

35mm f/1.8 (DX mode) @ f/1.8

35mm f/1.8 (FX mode) @ f/1.8 - please notice the vignette you get. I have found the less light the heavier the natural vignette you get from the lens (same thing with the 70-200 VR - not the VR2).

See how closely the 35mm and 50mm look when the 35mm is on the DX (crop) frame. This is most certainly a difference between full and crop frame cameras.

Second Week of January

2011-01-10T13:39:00.000-08:00

Wow. Second week. Woah. This year is already one of our best yet. We seriously feel so blessed!

Here are a few photos from this week. One morning I was letting V choose the subjects and posing (my little art director) while playing with the 50mm f/1.4 wide open.

Almost 2011

2010-12-30T11:47:00.000-08:00

No big plans here on how we are spending our new years eve. We are most likely going to watch a movie on Netflix and hang out as a family.

We are looking forward to all the wonderful things 2011 is going to bring the family.

We get to visit with Grandma Wendy in February while I go to Vegas for the WPPI Convention and Trade Show. I am doing some shoots, meeting some fellow photogs I've been chatting with via online, helping out with the NILMDTS booth at the trade show and some other really awesome things.

V is going to be turning 3 this year - which is crazy to me. He is still in love with cars and Lightning McQueen.

Trevor is working - a lot! That is pretty much it. Work work work - a little Nintendo --- work work work.

We hope to take some trips this coming year and have yet to decide when/where we are going, but we know we are going to escape the state of Kentucky. :)

Here are some photos of V....

I Shoot The Hoops

2010-12-27T11:57:00.001-08:00

Santa's On His Way...

2010-12-24T19:19:00.000-08:00

We are super excited for Christmas day. Look for the video of V opening his presents. Until then, here is a shot from tonight (lovely holiday bokeh) and a video of T getting a present. He had no idea that I ~~was so tired of him stealing my iPad~~ loved him so much, that I would get him is own iPad for Christmas. :)

Merry Christmas | Happy New Year

2010-12-21T13:49:00.000-08:00

Here is a digital Christmas card because well... with Trevor being gone this month getting out the real ones proved to be a challenge I wasn't even going to mess with.

Christmas Suit | What the Toddler?

2010-12-20T18:30:00.000-08:00

It Freezes. The heck if Kentucky knows what snow is!

2010-12-16T09:12:00.000-08:00

So I have a major beef to pick with Kentucky. Especially since I have a love-to-build-snowmen-and-stay-in-the-cold-til-my-figers-freeze-to-him little boy. It is all rain and freezing rain here in the winter. We rarely - RARELY - ever get snow for Christmas more than a light dusting. Again, last night, the stupid freezing rain showed up. Seriously, I need to invest in a sheet I can put over my car so I can just pull it off and don't have to spend countless hours scraping the crap off. Especially this month, you know, sans the hubster. I think he planned it this way...

Here are some photos from our freeze down - hey, I'm a photographer first!

V, enjoying a movie

Our tree... all bokeh fashioned...

Yummo... creamy bokeh...

Indiana Trip - Richardson Family

2010-12-11T17:01:00.000-08:00

Well, after V got over his car sickness, we had a BLAST (as usual) in Indiana! We went to an indoor play place, the children's museum and took some time to bond over shopping at Target. It was a super Target - which if I had one near me, I would think I died and gone to HEAVEN!! It's both a regular Target and a grocery store. Not just your "pick up a few things" but a full blown grocery with all the yummy Target goodness. *Sigh*

Here are some photos of our trip...

If you give a kid an iPad...

... the rest will come... and be entertained!

And, if you let a child do this and look at your LCD....

You end up with this next... :)

I can't wait...

2010-12-05T20:14:00.000-08:00

to live near these people! I miss having family close by.

Cha-cha-changes | From Then to Now

2010-12-05T19:46:00.000-08:00

Not only has V changed/grown as our blog has progressed, but we have too! Our blog lost the "everyone and their brother" scrapbook look for a cleaner space. The larger area for viewing all the new lovely photos. And, oh yeah, the improvement of those photos - in both quality and composition!

So for your viewing pleasure... from when we first started our little home on the blog-o-sphere here at Three Nuts in the Bluegrass (AKA TheKentuckyKids).... to now... I am currently developing our new blog for when we move to Vernal. I am trying to decide on the title... I know it will still be "Three Nuts.... something something something."

I have two solid ideas but have yet to commit to one -- and I have about a zillion color schemes.

So here are the photos:

Then on the Left, Now on the Right:

Can you believe that is the same little munchkin? Oh'em'gee!

December Week 2 | Once There Was A Snowman

2010-12-04T08:14:00.000-08:00

Here is the video.... if you are interested. Make sure you click on where the little number is and watch it in 720p or 1080p, the little iTouch does a fabulous job of capturing HD video under good lighting conditions!

And now for the photos.

It Snowed | Then It Went Away

2010-12-03T06:23:00.000-08:00

It snowed here the last two days, just some light flurries, but nothing will stick. Major bummer for V and a friend of his who just want to play in the snow together. V even has a great new snowsuit this year that is down and in scarlet and grey (because isn't everything a buckeye fanatic owns s&g).

Here are two photos from this week...

Our 'flurries' and our frozen leaves. V likes to collect them and pile them up.

The new toy around the house. The iPod Touch. It has given mommy back her sanity! We did the "big" Christmas stuff before Trevor left for the month, we weren't sure if he'd be back for Christmas or have to stay out in Madisonville.

November | Week 4

2010-11-25T18:32:00.000-08:00

Our Thanksgiving went something like this...

November | Weeks 2 & 3

2010-11-20T08:49:00.000-08:00

Here is what's up at our house...

I've done infant shoots. Love them! And with this cold weather it's perfect...

I've done some retouching for a wedding photographer...

And we've been busy reading books - both hard back and the iPad type. Oh, yes, did I mention, I got an iPad? They aren't as stupid as I thought. They rock - major! Other than the no-flash (which is becoming a dead medium anyways - hello HTML5).

I seriously can surf the net, blog and just about anything else you can think from the iPad. It's larger size (than the iTouch) makes it more like a netbook - on steroids. I heart my iPad - and am quickly turning T to the "darkside."

Santa is bringing V his own iTouch for Christmas so that they (T&V) will stop stealing the pad to play Angry Birds and other games.

Oh, and what would a post be without a quick snapshot of the Vbers and a messy played in house...

November | Week One | Snapshot

2010-11-09T14:42:00.000-08:00

Okay,

Apologies to Grandma Buckeye, Grandma Wendy, and all the other family and friends who read this blog. Let's try weekly, right?

Oh, and big big BIG announcement after the photos............

......... did you scroll past the photos super fast? Did you think it was baby news? If so, smack your forehead in a nice little palm-face, you don't know me well enough... :)

But, here is the BIG NEWS!!!!

WE (okay Trevor) has a job!! YES, we have two and a half more years here but we got a wonderful and generous offer from Ashley Regional Medical Center in Vernal, Utah. We are going back to Vernal for at least five years!! It will be so fun to live near family again and be able to eat dinners together on Sunday, buy a home, plant some roots, and just be in a great great town. :)

Happy Halloween | Pirates Say What?

2010-10-31T20:10:00.000-07:00

Can you tell which kid has a professional photographer for a mom? Yeah, it would be the brat with the pumpkin in front of his face! :P

Here are a few without the "pumpkin face."

And some of our buddies - the oldest M and the littlest M!

And here is a little post ToT'ing message from V.

It's Fall Here | Lots of Orange and Yellow

2010-10-18T09:16:00.001-07:00

Fall has officially entered the Louisville area. Today we went for a little drive to see some new locations that the color change made just amazing!

Extended Preview | Franklin Family

2010-10-12T06:39:00.000-07:00

Bored | It's Cold!

2010-10-06T10:24:00.001-07:00

I am gearing up for wedding season next year (hopefully) and have been taking some time to get everything in order. So, that usually leaves V and I bored most days and we take things like the flash outside and I let him put it where he thinks it should go and me where he thinks I should go and then he goes and does something cute (yeah, I know that was a runon sentence).

And then this is what we get...

O - H - I - O | The Boy Has Buckeye Fever

2010-10-02T18:02:00.000-07:00

We were out today running some errands and a woman commented on V's Buckeye jersey. V replied in a VERY VERY loud voice "Go Buckeyes!" Let me tell ya'll, that made this momma PROUD! So proud. My baby loves the Bucks. He has three shirts and wears whichever one is in the drawer at the time (including the too too small shorts as well).

Poor lady looked at me and said "Indoctrinating him young are ya?" My reply to her was "Well, at least he picked a winner."

Lauren and Chris | Engagement Session

2010-09-26T20:39:00.001-07:00

I know I don't really post sessions over here often... but I "second shot" this session, as well as some art direction... so I just want to show it off. :)

Create your own video slideshow at animoto.com.

OMGosh. I Am One Of "Those" Bloggers!

2010-09-25T10:17:00.001-07:00

Man, I'm a bad blogger. The biz has kept me on my toes. Here is a video of some snapshots from this summer.

Touchy or Passionate? | A Photographer's Take On A Question

2010-09-09T20:19:00.000-07:00

Recently at IHF a member asked the question:

"I am unemployed. Am I good enough to start a photography business?"

First before I share my answer let me say, I am sooooo tired of people using photography as a "back up" job or way to make a quick buck. I am tired of people buying DSLRs just to keep them on Auto mode - total disservice to your camera and yourself! Go back to a PNS if you are looking to shoot on auto or "running man." I get upset with those thinking that I became a photographer because I could not do anything else or was bored or am the typical Mormon housewife with a DSLR (goodness knows I am anything but typical - ask my mother-in-law).

The next time a Tom-Dick-or-Harry asks me what camera I shoot with because it "gets really good photos" I might scream - okay, no I'll say a Nikon and that I am a professional in a polite manner - but on the inside, you bet I'll be screaming! Same thing goes for the semi-pro who thinks that if they know my ISO, Shutter speed, or aperture (f/stop)- smile outside, screaming inside.

It's not that I don't want to help others, I do - so much! It's just I don't want to waste my time on those not willing to apply what I have taught.

I chose photography because I have had a passion for it since I was young (just ask my mother about the time I begged for a digital camera) and well, I am good at it - or so the clients think so, and really, clients are my top priority. If my clients are happy, I'm happy.

Okay... so here was my response to the above IHF question (remember still screaming on the inside):

Personally, the only person that can answer the "good enough" question is you. And well, clients I guess. :)

I do have to say that if you choose this... be in it for the long haul. There are so many start up and fall offs that it is sad to see, and can really hurt the industry. For example those who charge $50 a session and give every single photo on a CD - and then fall away without even a peep and give a lesser quality product... those kind of people really twist the common consumer's view on what it is we do and tend to make the consumer feel entitled to our work instead of thrilled to be a part of it. We make art with our cameras - this is not some "take a photo and slap it on facebook" kind of job - it is a "take a photo, cull the photos, edit the photos, cull the photos, perfect the photos, print the photos, interact with clients, keep in touch with clients, thank the clients" type job. 24/7/365!

There is more to photography than having a passion for it. Passionate people quickly burn out and move on. You have to eat it, sleep it, breathe it, LIVE it. Yes, how cliche right? But honestly, if it is not on your mind 100% of the time... or you are wavering in what path you'd like to follow, I'd say put your time and energy towards something you can see yourself in for the LONG HAUL.

Having said that, if you do choose photography as your path -- get ready. There are going to be some long nights and rough days in your first year. You won't only be proving yourself to clients, but also to others in your area in the industry - you'll be building lasting relationships with clients, other photographers, and vendors. You'll be proving that this is your career - not just your hobby or passion - your intended career in life. That you are going to make it work come heck or high water. That no matter how the industry changes you are willing to adapt, learn and grow as a photographer and artist. That you will let nothing sway you from your dream of providing life long memories in a shutter moment form that will be treasured and displayed by couples, families and loved ones.

I must say, that I simply have the most amazing clients. Each one of them has been such a joy to work with. Recently, I was really astounded at the amazing compliment I was given by a repeat customer. She has no idea how much her kind words meant to me... or how much more that made me thrilled to be a part of capturing her family and memories on print.

I must say, knowing my work will be there for years and maybe even after I am gone is so awesome. It is my legacy to the world - and I love every darn second of it... I eat it, I sleep it, I breathe it.

Heck, my husband even rolls his eyes every time he hears me say "can you see the photo in this?" or "whoa look at that amazing light right this second." Yep... I am a photographer... even down to my DNA. I survey a room and find the photos. The moments that make life work. Not a hobbyist, not an enthusiast, not even a casual family friend with a good camera - by gosh... I AM A PHOTOGRAPHER.

Dave the Dentist | Uncle Deeve

2010-09-04T17:31:00.000-07:00

Yup. Dr. Dave Thurman, DDS, hit the bluegrass this weekend for some fun. You may all remember him from my "our friend Dave is leaving, ya'll cry with me" post a few years back. Or, I might have mentioned him a dozen (or zillion) times or so since well, he is Trevor and I's best friend outside our marriage! WE HEART DAVE!

And so does V.

Today I had to drive out of Louisville to deliver prints to some clients so Dave came along (since T is post-call napping) and we stopped at this place I had spied earlier in the week on my way to the proofing session - yes peeps - that is how fast my images come back. BOOOOHYAH, I may heart my printing house too.

Anywho... back to the Dave-y-goodness!

Vaughn adores his "uncle deeve" and we are bound convinced if Dave asked, V would hop in the suitcase back to Denver with him. Dave lets him play on the iPhone (way better games than mommy's phone) and brought him things to jump on. Tonight when T and I went to put V to bed he yelled, "Save me Uncle Deeve!" Yup, he loves his Dave!

So here are some photos from our pit stop:

(by the way, we aren't in the habit of V calling friends Uncle and Aunt, but Dave holds a special place in both T and I's lives and is V's Godfather - hence the Uncle Dave)

Trevor | Tired of His Wife - The Professional Photographer

2010-09-02T12:29:00.000-07:00

I must say, while Trevor loves having a happy wife... he doesn't always appriciate the camera attached to that certain happy wife's face.

I usually start out with "annoyed", turned "knock it off," turned "fine, if I give you one good one will you go?" type photos with Trev. One of these days he'll give in... i*just*know*it!

See what I mean? Man he is going to kill me for this... teeheehee.

Cicero | Fall Haircut

2010-09-02T12:22:00.001-07:00

We like to keep Cicero's hair in a shorter puppy cut... and I must say... it sure does bring out the puppy in him. :)

Check It Out | Over On The LMMP

2010-09-01T08:09:00.000-07:00

Designing logos is super fun... so when I woke up yesterday and looked at mine - it didn't give me that spark anymore. I needed a revamp. Especially as I start shooting weddings - both LDS and regular - I wanted something more clean to pop up on the watermarked images.

So -- head over to LMMP today and check out what's new! And check out the sneak peek at the new watermark below:

28 | What The Heck?!

2010-08-30T10:55:00.000-07:00

I can remember teasing Trevor a few years ago about turning 28 and being so darn close to thirty - and quite possibly being a tinsy bit jealous. Yes, ya'll, I want to be 30. Ever since I was a little girl -- I knew 30 was going to be a big age for me... and well, the way we are shaping up, it will be.
So on to the "wish list" post for this year. My husband would like to remind ya'll that if the new Metroid game ended up in a present to me, that he would happily use it. Ugh, he may be 30, but he's all 12 year old boy inside this Nintendo man.

So without further ado... what I am currently drooling over in a snapshot:

Description for my reference as I come back to this post later (because ya'll know how flavors change!):

These camera straps from August Blossoms on Etsy, I have another one of her straps and I have to say, I LOVE LOV LOVE her stuff:

Some new memory cards from B&H, cuz' this gal second shoots weddings now and well, you can never have too much. And since we are going all crazy camera theme.... any of these couldn't hurt. Haha.

*24mm f/2.8
*50mm f/1.8 (unless I got lucky then the 1.2)
*85mm f/1.8
*105mm f/2D
*70-200mm

And for fun:

*Fisheye (10mm, 14mm, or 16mm)
*PC-E 24mm f/3.5

Wow, glad I got that out of my system and jotted down somewhere. Notice the theme there... yeah, I got a thing for primes. I am really keen on getting the 24, 50, and 85... someday... gotta work my bunz off!

Back to reality... I got a little wishy and lustful there...

Even things for V make me one happy Mommy. Let's face it, when your kids get cool things it does two things : (1) makes you look like a cool parent and (2) let's you play with things your parents never got you or that weren't around when you were a kid. I am sure V would love this adorable soccer Bento box. And while we are at it, let's talk about these adorable Crocs that V would rock (in a size 8 - omgosh huge feet).

Okay, getting back to me... about a million of these quirky sweatshirts (have I mentioned I love FALL and WINTER?) from threadless would make me "super happy."

And the last thing on my list -- more jackets for fall. Cute ones that I can wear over my tanks and tees and not-so-g-friendly dresses/shirts -- like these from Piperlime (various designers) HERE and HERE. or this one with some skinny jeans and a long tank under it and soft boots -- messy pony tail and some petite dangles...

Oh yeah, and coats. Some girls love purses, some girls love shoes, but man - this girl loves her a good jacket. A fun fall jacket with some jeans and boots. Oh yeah, I can rock it.... or so I think I can, haha.

To Be A Better Blogger | Can I Keep That Promise

2010-08-27T18:58:00.000-07:00

I feel like everyone's personal blog goes through lulls and growing pains and all sorts of phases.

Right now it's my - neglect the personal blog for family and work - phase. With as much as the photog biz is taking off and all the wedding second shooting I am going to do starting this month, I haven't been posting on the personal blog as much.

I feel like I update enough on Facebook for those friends and family who really care. But here is where I post the photos usually because Flickr gives such a nicer image than Facebook -- and well -- I'm all about the images.

Yep. Dude. It's the photographer in me... the professional photographer in me. Woah, have I become quite the picky snot when it comes to shots!

Here is one from today with V getting ready for bed. He is quite the stinker.

The Joy of the Temple | Eternal Family

2010-08-26T10:34:00.000-07:00

Recently a friend of mine had something happen in her family that she shared with us. It made me pause and think of how grateful I am of the promise of an Eternal family. I know that whatever happens here, we will meet again. Comforting words. I think that converting in a town with a temple and then again moving to a town with a temple has made me lazy. There, I said it, I am lazy about temple attendance. Ooooh, my big secret is out. Actually, feels a lot better than pretending I attend as often as I should. And if you want to judge me, meh' I don't care.

Darn it, I will come right out and say it -- I know I am to blame, but it is so easy to become lazy between Trevor's schedule and a wonderful bunch of in-laws who help me feel the Spirit in my home by just the occasional phone call. It is so easy to go home to Vernal once a year and get a good dose of a Spirit filled home for two weeks and then forget to carry that over into our every day life.

So, I leave you with a photo I stumbled across of V at the Oquirrh Mountain temple. He found delight in the temple grounds since he could not attend the sealing, and it is this photo that made me pause and think - gee - I can find the way the temple blessings fill my life in simple every day things... like my son - part of my eternal family. I also remember the Spirit that filled the sealing room that day, the words that were spoken and the beauty of my sister-in-law in her wedding dress and it makes me feel all gooey inside and want to run down the street right now. Yes, peoples, I live literally 5 minutes away - go ahead, call me a spoiled East Coast brat.

Thanks Jessie | Louisville Location Scouting

2010-08-25T07:10:00.000-07:00

Fellow photographer, Jessie Vernon, and I were out and about location scouting a few weeks ago. She took this photo of me in the same location I took the photos of her (see earlier post).

It's been a long time since I've thought a photo of me was pretty good (meaning, not super fat). Thanks Jessie!

To Potty Or Not To Potty | That's The BIG Question

2010-08-25T07:00:00.000-07:00

So yes, I took some liberties with the above quote as my blog post title. Vaughn shows some interest in potty training, but still has yet to show enough for it to be him that is potty trained and not me (or Trevor). Personally, I think the only reason V might be slightly excited about it is the Mickey Mouse undies. This is my view these days...

Just A Test | Vaughn = Booger

2010-08-20T12:36:00.000-07:00

Just testing out stuff here on the personal blog that I might like to do for my photo clients... :)

Funky Fresh | Trying A New Do

2010-08-11T14:18:00.000-07:00

Just trying out a new more 'artsy' do.

Inspiration for said do found HERE, if you have time stick around and read her birth story about Nella, beautiful beyond words.... Kelle Hampton is a photographer, crafty woman and mommy blogger. She also happens to have two very adorable little kids... one with downs.

I think it suits me. And yes, I am going deeper brown... as soon as I get to my colorist. Because well, I hope to grow up one day and be not only as pretty as Kelle Hampton, but a stellar mom like she is too. Oh, how I covet her adorable ideas of things to do with her children each day. I know... we only get a peek into the life of this mommy blogger... but she is such a stellar inspiration.

Coveting the D700... yeah... still.

Studio Geeks | Mellwood Ave Studio

2010-08-11T14:15:00.000-07:00

I am currently helping a fellow photographer (JVPhotography) whom I second shoot weddings for get her studio in order here in Louisville.

It is at a fun location and an excellent little studio!

Here is her right after the lease signing:

And Vbers acting like a boss:

Location Scouting | Jessie Vernon Weddings

2010-08-05T09:45:00.000-07:00

Jessie Vernon - who most of you recognize by now from Project Tiny - is a wedding photographer here in Louisville. I second shoot her weddings for her. For those of you who don't know what that means, it is where a primary photographer hires another photographer to shoot the wedding as well - if the bride/groom purchase the package with a second shooter - so that not a second of the massive all-day-long weddings are missed. I have to say, I LOVE second shooting weddings.

Here are some photos from our location scout:

And an engagement session I second shot for JV|weddings.

The Family | Black and White Thursday Night

2010-08-05T09:32:00.000-07:00

We went with the Madsen Family to a music event at the Summit about a week ago. I handed over my camera to Michaun (one of the few non-professional photogs I trust to operate it) and she returned it with this photo on it.

Thanks Michaun! I heart you!

And then there is this one from Dr. Daddy -- who was actually able to go! We were surprised because both Dr. Mathis and Dr. Madsen were off that night and were able to join us otherwise solo moms and kiddos.

If you haven't already, check out the photos of Maylee's birthday party. Their kids are adorable!

Giving Back Through Photography | IHF and Non-Profit Photography

2010-08-05T09:26:00.001-07:00

This week over at i ♥ faces is Angie & Amy's week off. There is no judging, but there is a ton of sharing about some things near and dear to my heart. Charity work.

Ever since beginning my journey in Photography, I knew that I wanted to give back. Actually, I have always been interested in serving a charity in some capacity. It was until I found photography, that it all clicked for me and fell into place.

I currently provide digital retouch skills for Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep. Due to the sensitive nature of the photographs and my wish to respect the parent's privacy at such a sensitive time, I do not have any images to share. But, here is what they have to say about their cause:

We have been given a gift by the parents who invite us to photograph their children. With this project, we are creating some or our most powerful images, and that is because parents allow us to share in their love of their precious gifts. We all come away from this experience profoundly changed . . . Here are parents who know their children have died or are going to die, they have opened their hearts to complete strangers, and they have taken the time to share their child with us, and you, the world. They share with us the joy of being parents, even knowing that joy was so fleeting. We believe this is the purpose of Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep Foundation, Remembrance Photography -to touch people's lives and to be touched by them in return. So, to all parents, we thank you with all our hearts for sharing the gift of your precious children and allowing us into your lives and the life of your child.

I also have the pleasure of working with Littlest Heroes Project - which is now inspiration through art. This organization is "a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering young people to give back, and make a difference through the beauty of art. We are artists with a passion for giving and inspiring others. Thorugh our own artistic talents we are able to come together as one, to let children around the world know that they are loved,despite the challenges they face everyday."

Here is a photo of the beautiful Jordyn and her family that I shared awhile back. She is an adorable (now 2 year old) little girl who lives with Marfan Syndrome. I have said it before, but I'll say it again, her parents are truly and example of the great love parents feel for their children and such a great inspiration to others on how to advocate for your child each and every day. My life was blessed and changed after meeting this sweet family.

Here is one of the Urry family - who adopted five children, all with special needs. The children are all now in adulthood, but due to various disabilities still live in their home. Check out how you can help them rebuild a home that is handicap friendly after their current home was destroyed by the harsh winter ice storms by clicking here.

My most recent and most involved non-profit work comes with Project Tiny. A non-profit organization by Jessie Vernon based out of Louisville, Kentucky. I have become involved with Project Tiny after Jessie Vernon approached me about doing some graphic design work for the non-profit. After offering to help out with my logo work and some other design elements, I got more involved as a photographer.

Project Tiny's mission is to provide infant photos of NICU children to their parents. A lot of times, the tiny little NICU children spend those precious first few "infant photo" days in little isoletes or on various IVs and tubes. Many times, families do not get those infant sessions and professional photos are not on their mind as they help their little ones fight for their chance in this world. It is an honor to work so closely with the NICU nurses and faculty to provide these family with lasting, powerful images of their little one's will to live and amazing little spirits! It is so nice to provide those families images of professional quality to look back on as their little one grows.

Again, due to the sensitive nature, I can not share images from the sessions, but I will leave you with one of the amazing President, Jessie Vernon:

Having come home from a session late last night, I know that I was personally touched hearing each little sound from the week old little baby A.L. From her sneezes to her little cries, it was such a reminder of the beauty of life and reminded me why I decided to donate my time, talent and skills in this capacity for all of my charities I work with. I love providing lasting images to families in their time of need - from not being able to afford custom (or any professional) photography due to medical bills or just not having it first and foremost in your mind when dealing with an ill child.

Having mentioned all of my work with non-profits, I encourage you to treat every session with the upmost respect and care. You never know if it may be a person's last. After recently hearing a story about a young child passing away and the mother contacting a friend's wedding photographer because those were his last photos taken of him, I realized just how special the talent I have been given by our Heavenly Father is. I capture moments in life in a tangible way and that is why I give back when I can.

Happy Birthday to my Little Sister Jessica | AKA JP

2010-07-24T07:26:00.000-07:00

Hope you have a good one! The boys have orders to pamper you and give you special birthday wishes!

Black and White | My Favorite Way To Photograph

2010-07-20T18:18:00.000-07:00

... why you ask? Because I love the way you can imagine the colors. I love how it tells a story - right down to every little speck of dust, grim and dirt -- or in this case, cupcake. :)

Mathis Grandparents Visit the 'Ville | Cross Country Trippin'

2010-07-17T20:10:00.000-07:00

Some photos from the few days we had to visit with the Mathis side of the family.

At Joe's at Riverfront Park

A Few Glow Sticks | Bath Tub Time Entertainment

2010-07-17T20:03:00.001-07:00

With it being so hot here in Louisville, we've decided to extend bath tub time to try to aid in a little cool off.

Lil' Miss M | She Turned 4

2010-07-17T18:51:00.000-07:00

Little Miss M turned 4 - and had a party. She invited Little MM Pants. I guess that is why little miss 4 thought of little mister 2. It was the double M in his nick name. We were tickled pink to be invited - which was fitting for the flamingo Hawaii theme.

I was super excited to birthday shop for little Miss M. You see, she isn't like most 4 year olds. Yes, she does like the glitz of a bracelet and the pink of a dress - but Little Miss M has mentioned to her mom (and then I've seen on the blog or heard first hand) about wanting to be a Paleontologist when she grows up. How awesome is that?? A little gal on a mission.

I set out to find a digging set. You know, the kind where you use little kid sized excavating tools to dig out plastic Dino bones. I was skeptical about finding one but knew I wouldn't give up until I did. Well, as luck has it, I still have my shopping bone in tack. I found it at the first store I went to. Not just the little egg kinds, but the whole big kit -- with not just a bone here or there, but the whole T-Rex skeleton. I also made a custom label and printed it off to attach to the front of a top spiraled sketch pad. I titled it Maylee's Field Journal. It was such a perfect little package wrapped up in a lavender bow.

Dear Maylee -

Please don't ever change the fact that you are the most proper little girl when it calls for it, but you have the most awesome love of science I have ever seen in a kid. And well, science kids ROCK! So if { Science Kid = Rock and Science Kid = Maylee, then Rock = Maylee } - naturally. :)

Hugs - Ms Raven

Now if you've made it to here (or just skipped to here) I wanted to share some shots (the present she is unwrapping is the one we brought).

Look at that adorable curly hair on the birthday girl. :)

Camping | Ohio and PA Trip

2010-07-08T11:44:00.000-07:00

Just a bunch of photos. V loved the races and was mesmerized by it all. He kept yelling "Go Shane" and "FasFast!" at all the cars. He thinks Uncle Shane drives Lightning McQueen. I must admit, the car does look a little like him.

I threatened to take back my mom's new Pandora bead and get her some beautiful doorknocker ghetto gold heart earrings we saw a chick sporting... but she behaved, so the Pandora bead is now on here Grandson bracelet.

My grandparents had V a mini-birthday celebration. He ate some cake and played with all his new toys. That kid is so spoiled.

We visited Creekside Gahanna and it's not as lame and I thought it would be.

We drove all over the place and then I headed back down to Columbus. I stayed at Jeff and Stephanie's house because Jason & Karissa were delayed by a flat tire.

This coming weekend my in laws will be here and there is lots more fun to be had.

Here are some photos of the Fourth and such.

V's Grandma Great | Lola

Annie the Boxer

V's Grandpa Great | Don

Grandpa Buckeye gave V a bubble gun.

Uncle Shane

Let's Go To The Movies | Toy Story 3

2010-06-25T05:22:00.000-07:00

Okay, minus me bawling like a baby at the end of TS3 because Andy was all grown up and he played with the "toys" one last time and V was growing up and a multitude of other things that just said "Hey you've grown up too," the movie was pretty great. Wow, how was that for a long winded drawn out sentence?

Here are some photos of my little guy's first trip to the movies:

Wearing his alien shirt. I love the "oooh the claw." It cracks me up.

V loved the candy holders, the popcorn daddy bought and the special seat he got to sit on.

He got a Buzz Lightyear after the movie. He calls him Buzz Lightyearman.

Snapshots | The Boy

2010-06-21T04:56:00.000-07:00

Just some quick shots of the boy for the grandparents. Excuse the crappy quality... they are hosted on Facebook. :(

Sweet Baby J | The New Kid In Town

2010-06-16T18:40:00.000-07:00

Little baby J's family just recently moved to Louisville and into our Ward. I couldn't resist the opportunity of photographing this new-to-the-'ville baby. I get to photograph his equally adorable brothers next week - so excited!

Sweet baby J was so full of energy today that we didn't get any sleeping shots... but that was a-okay! Those eyes are just adorable and those little cherub cheeks are so sweet!

i heart faces | babies

2010-06-13T17:00:00.001-07:00

This week at i ♥ faces is all about babies.

Here is what i ♥ faces has to say about this week's theme:

We are going to celebrate itty-bitty babies this week...anywhere from babies still in mom's belly... to newborns... to little babies who still aren't taking their first steps. Since we know that not everyone has access to a teeny-tiny little one, we are expanding this week's theme to include baby animals or baby accessories as well (ie. little booties that a baby would wear, or a special baby hat, etc.) Enter a photo that you feel best shows off the theme of "baby" for you.

Here is my entry for this week.

For more photos of adorable little munchkins head over to i ♥ faces.

IHF Play | Ashlynn and the Lipstick

2010-06-08T06:46:00.001-07:00

It's been awhile since I have posted an entry over here for my private blog readers to take a gander at as well, so I thought might as well. I encourage you to add my photography blogsite to your reader (seeing as it is public) and hopefully that will help you remember to check the private blog (for those of you who hate us "private blog" people - Dave. :P)

This week at i ♥ faces is all about Play. Here is what they are saying about the theme over at the i ♥ faces blog:

This is the week to show off your little child, older children or oldest children (a.k.a. your spouse and friends) hard at play. This theme is very open - it can be a child playing in the sand, a hubby strumming his guitar, and older child participating in a sport or a friend sewing their latest creation. Whatever you think fits the theme of "play"...just make sure that there is a human face showing in your photo entry as well.

Now, naturally, I would love to put up a photo of all of us photogs at play this past Saturday at the i ♥ faces Photo Walk... but you really don't want to see a photo of me, right?!

The photo I am entering is of an adorable little girl I have had the privilege of photographing over the past two years. She is now becoming quite the young lady with a mind of her own and a 'tood to go with it. Her thing right now is that she likes to play with makeup. This purple lipstick was found in the back of her mom's SUV on our way to the shoot. Apparently, she stashes the stuff in her cup holder. As a bribe for smiling pretty during her session, we told her at the end we would take photos of her "getting pretty." Here is one of the shots from the resulting series... one of my favorites right now.

IHF Photowalk | My Photos

2010-06-08T06:40:00.000-07:00

Whelp. Okay, not a word... but... here are a few photos from today's i ♥ faces photo walk in Louisville, Kentucky. I would love to say a HUGE thank you to Amy & Angie of i ♥ faces, all the sponsors, and our models Cyndi and Morgan. They truly looked amazing and were great sports.

It was so much fun meeting other fellow i ♥ faces members and getting to put a FACE with the names and blogs I have come to love. There were truly some amazing people who made our day such a blast. I would love to give each one of those attendees who made our walk super awesome, but then this blog post would go on forever!

To see more of my photos visit HERE.

To see the group's photos visit HERE.

To see all 20 cities photos visit HERE.

Without further ado, here are a few of my favorites.

Does this guy look like Mario to anyone else??

IHF Photowalk | Super Fun Times

2010-06-06T22:57:00.000-07:00

The photo walk for I Heart Faces was so fun! It was really easy to lead because we had some amazing participants! There were so many fun parts to the day (take a peek over at my photography blogsite). Our models were two of the young women from the wards around here. I served in a calling in RS with Cyndi's mom and just adore her girls. After seeing Cyndi's photos on Facebook of her and a friend acting goofy in a Walmart (with some super cute red shoes that beg to be photographed), I just knew that I had to ask her to model for us. I am so glad she agreed and that there are some really great photos. We "payed" our models in photos. They also were really great sports. About half way through the walk there was a fountain that jumps up. The girls were standing for a photo and up it went. Being the excellent participants they are, they ran right through it!

We even took time for lunch after the walk at Joe's on the Ohio River. It was fun to sit down and get to know some of the other photographers in our area. I met some really great people and finally got to chat with Sarah from Sarah Kate Photography in person. It was fun putting a face with all the photographs that I blogstalk through the weekly IHF challenges and FIF.

Overall, I can not wait until the next one. Leading or not, I am going!

Photo courtesy of Photo Bugg Photography.

That Kid | That Mom

2010-06-06T19:36:00.000-07:00

V and I were bored at home today. T was on call, so it's just the two of us. I got the camera out and surprisingly he was a willing model today saying "cheese me Mommy."

Took some DIY photos of myself too ... with the DSLR it is more of a workout!

It's Official | I Love This Age

2010-06-02T11:39:00.001-07:00

I have always been a fan of toddlers. It's seriously my favorite age - and well - now that V is here in the world of toddler-dom... I LOVE IT! Seriously, every day Trev and I say, "Can this kid get any cooler?" We feel like we've hit the jackpot as far as having kids goes. He really is the neatest kid I've ever met (and I might just be a tad bit bias).