Image-inations

It's a Blog (Moving) Party!

2008-09-24T00:04:00.004-05:00

I'm excited to announce that my blog is moving to it's new location! You'll find it at

www.debraklawetter.com/blog

Expect to see the beloved, old posts all neatly archived over there, as well as some new ones. I can't wait to share larger images and give you search capability. But most of all, I can't wait to see you at my new digs! Be sure to stop by and drop me a comment or two!

A Little Bit of Determination....

2008-08-01T15:51:00.009-05:00

...can get us far in life! And this mom was absolutely determined to get family portraits done before her window of opportunity narrowed. Both her kids were home, everyone had coordinating outfits, and we finally had a date on the calendar. So when I called her saying, "You know, the forecast says it's going to be really hot. Would you like to reschedule?" she hesitated only a moment. "No. Let's do this!"

So at the beginning of the session (scheduled during the "cool" evening hours - LOL) it was 104 degrees. And at the end, about 8:30pm, it was a mere 96. What did we have to show for it? Well, tell me what you think! I had a blast in spite of the heat! Hope you did, too!

Another beautiful wedding!

2008-07-31T09:44:00.011-05:00

I loved the emotion of this one. There were the typical pre-ceremony nerves and flurry of activity, the laughter and fun with friends and family, the solemnity of the vows, the peace and joy of quiet moments shared together. And in and through it all, Mallory and Preston's love for one another was so apparent. Just look at her expression during the vows!

What a treat for me to get to do an all black and white album. I adore color - always will! But there's something so direct and penetrating about black and white images. No distractions. Just the subjects, their moment, and all those emotions that tell the story of the day. Thank you for letting me share it, Mallory and Preston!

A Wonderful Wedding!

2008-07-30T17:16:00.012-05:00

I had such a great time at the wedding of Katy and Taylor. Could a couple be any more in love? I don't think it's possible! I enjoyed sharing not only their wedding day, but their rehearsal and rehearsal dinner. We even managed to fit in a fun, informal session in between! (Thankfully, they survived my backing into a big rock marking the VERY edge of the gravel road. Way too close, if you ask me! LOL) They enter married life with the tremendous blessing of two wonderful sets of parents who have set such great examples, and friends who are truly amazing! They are in love, and simply surrounded by it. Taylor and Katy, thank you for letting me share this time in your lives!

Wishing you many blessings on the road ahead....

A Tribute to a Hero: Jonathan "JD" Emard

2008-06-20T18:11:00.024-05:00

There are times when you've been given a responsibility you know you must fulfill, no matter how difficult, no matter the cost. Army Spc. Jonathan Emard understood that. At the age of just 20, on June 4, 2008, near Hawijah, Iraq, he courageously ran a mission that would make most of us shrink in fear. But JD understood the cost and had a mind, body and spirit ready to serve. Tragically, it was his last mission. Two fellow soldiers, Sgt. Cody Legg and Sgt. Shane Duffy, also lost their lives in those early morning hours.

I have the privilege of knowing JD's family personally through church, even having had the blessed opportunity to photograph the birth of JD's niece last year. They are the kind of people who make everyone feel like family from the start. When JD's father called asking me to photograph as much as I could of the proceedings when his son arrived home - not in the celebratory reunion we so longed for, but in a casket borne in honor - I knew I had a job to do. It was, at once, the most difficult assignment and one of the greatest privileges I've ever had. It was the very least that I could do. I was so very moved to see the outpouring of love and support to, and even from, the Emard family. Spending the better part of two days with them, I heard many stories, saw heartwarming pictures, celebrated JD's life, and observed the dignity and honor with which his earthly body was laid to rest. We celebrate that his soul is with the Lord. So this is for you, our brave hero, and for your family who loves you so. We look forward to seeing you in glory.

This is a small sampling of pictures from the moving events of those days. Please check back soon for a slideshow in JD's honor which will contain many more images. And for my regular clients, thank you for your understanding and patience as I undertook this special assignment.

And sometimes your clients become your friends!

2008-06-11T11:00:00.015-05:00

I''m so happy to have met this sweet family two years ago. Our paths originally crossed through our mutual membership in an international adoption group. Their precious daughter was two at the time, and we had a great session! You may remember this image - one of my all-time favorites:

And now, Miss S has a little brother, another precious gift from God. How I have grown to love this family! They're the kind of people you feel you've known forever, those who just scoop you up and make you "family" from the start. Thank you for that!

There was just something about Mr. P that lent these images to vintage treatment. Here's another - doesn't it look like it came out of your grandmother's drawer? :-) I'm enjoying trying a wide variety of treatments for my images, custom-designing each one to bring out the mood and vision I had in mind while taking it.

And this year's version of Miss S's intense gaze: just a little older, but the same enchanting face.

Her coy look:

And a hopscotch game shared with little brother. Got a story to tell? This is a storyboard collage option that I offer to clients - it's one of my bestsellers!

Finally, a sample from the new "Definitions" line I carry. These large matted images with defintions have high impact, and are available with words like "family," "joy," "boy," "girl," and many more. They can contain multiple images or a single one. Doesn't this image just make you want to....

GIGGLE!!!

Sometimes your friends become your clients...

2008-06-11T09:58:00.008-05:00

I am privileged to have been friends with this amazing family for many years - can it be almost 20?!? And from the beginning, it's been easy to see that they're simply wonderful people! Recently they gathered to celebrate their mother's 80th birthday (am I allowed to say that, Shirley?) and Mother's Day. Doesn't she look beautiful? We got to do an extended family session right in the back yard, and I was privileged to meet the brothers and sisters and in-laws that I've heard about for years. What a pleasure! I'm so glad to be your friend, and now also your photographer!

Waiting on Pins and Needles...

2008-05-12T17:30:00.009-05:00

I know you're eager, but Oh, it's hard to pick just a few! There are so many, and I'm sure to come back and add a few more. But here are some of my favorites of Holly. Enjoy!

Isn't she just a Cinderella? She's such a beautiful girl - inside and out! Loved your great sense of humor, the precious relationship you have with your sisters and mom, and your sweet sensitivity, Holly. May your journey be blessed.

A Springtime Vision

2008-05-07T12:45:00.012-05:00

Meet Abby, a lovely girl with such a beautiful spirit! She's adventurous, too - One has to be (at least a little) on one of my shoots. Who knows what we'll find? And we found some great locations on this shoot. It was almost as though that little white church dropped out of heaven for us, wasn't it? I know you've been waiting to pick those wallets, Abby, so here's your rather extensive sneak peak! Enjoy!

Just came back to add your video. And since I know you love classical music, enjoy your pictures to Vivaldi's Spring:

I'm SO excited!

2008-05-06T18:43:00.002-05:00

I LOVE a new company called Animoto! I plan to use it to create custom videos for all my new seniors. So Anna, here's your fabulous "Anna-moto!"

Town and Country

2008-04-26T21:57:00.011-05:00

I loved the diversity of this session! We started in a gritty, urban area and ended in a serene, pastoral location. Anna is so fun and energetic - quite the artist herself! I enjoyed how we played off each other's creativity, bouncing quickly from one location to the next. There are so many images I love from this session. Here is a sneak peek!

Can't wait to show you the rest!

Have you ever...

2008-04-01T13:02:00.010-05:00

...had a serious case writer's block? I must admit, I've suffered from it when it came to posting these. My problem is not that there is nothing to say. Rather, there's so much to say about the lovely Miss Stephanie that I don't even know where to begin!

She's talented - a serious dancer who's dedicated to her art. She's intelligent and level-headed. (I have no doubt that you wowed those interviewers from that Ivy League school!) And behind those brains, talent and dedication is a girl with a great sense of humor and a lot of spunk! (Not to mention a wildly fun shoe collection!) Thank you, Stephanie, for letting me share in this fabulous time in your life. Enjoy!

Several clients have inquired recently about my gallery wraps. They're simply wonderful! If you haven't had a chance yet to see and touch one, here's the next best thing. This sample approximates what a collage might look like in a gallery wrap. (Admittedly, it's not centered quite right. But after spending much too long playing with it, I decided you were smart enough to envision it perfectly centered!) It's a museum-quality stretched canvas image, coated for protection, that will last for many years. Ready to hang, it's truly a clean and contemporary piece of art! The crème de la crème!

A Real, Live Guitar Hero

2008-03-18T12:12:00.013-05:00

Meet Jesse, master guitarist and skateboarder extraordinaire. He's a guy who is easy going and fun to hang out with. But I bet you can tell that from the pictures!

Jesse's mom has a photograph of his dad as a shirtless young man, playing guitar. So in the spirit of carrying on tradition...

And with his very cool skateboard:

Next session we're going to get some action shots with that skateboard, Jesse!

Another incredible senior!

2008-03-11T12:42:00.007-05:00

Have I mentioned that I love photographing seniors? Oh, yes - I think I have! ;-)

Here's another senior I so enjoyed getting to know. Meet Gus - not your average Joe. He's planning on studying forensic chemistry - not for the faint of heart nor the weak of mind. And for his own enjoyment, he does comparative analysis of French medieval literature. This guy is smart! Not boring-smart, but fun-smart. He's got a cool dachshund and a cool car. And though his Scion is one boxy little automobile, I found Gus a guy who refuses to be put into a box. Best wishes to you, Gus, as you pursue the path ahead. Thanks for giving me this honor!

Who, ME?

2008-03-08T14:41:00.004-06:00

One cannot say our little dog, Lucy, is mistreated. In fact, she forgets she has four legs and a stubby little tail sometimes. Yes, she thinks she's a person. Yesterday, I walked into my daughter's room to this unimaginable sight. She was comfortably tucked in, contentedly watching the "aquarium" my dd had lovingly places there for her entertainment:

As I disturbed her fish-watching, this is the look I got. I think she's saying, "Spoiled? Who, ME?"

Oh, the things you miss...

2008-03-08T00:48:00.004-06:00

...when you have BIG kids! Granted, there are so many wonderful things about having older children, like having real conversations about the deep mysteries of life (e.g, who gets the car? and how can we be in three places at once?) Like watching them discover what they're good at and pursue it. Like observing and guiding as they spread their wings and gain their independence. It's a very rewarding time in life. But sometimes I miss little things about those early, seemingly much simpler, days. Like sticky kisses, high-pitched giggles, finger paints, play-doh, hide-and-seek, and Dr. Seuss. (Shhhhh....don't tell anyone, but I'm going to see that Who movie even if I can't drag my big kids to it!) LOL

I guess that's why I love what I do so much. If a photograph can, in an instant, bring all those memories and good feelings flooding back, if it can artistically capture that expression that so characterizes this moment and this person, (big or small) that you love, then I've done my job.

Because my kids are big, I somehow missed the movie Curious George when it was in the theatres. (Yes, I know this was made in 2006!) On the radio today, I heard Jack Johnson's Upside Down from the movie. It's such a happy, feel-good song, with a tremendously fun video. So I invite you to grab your kids today, to kick up your feet together, watch the video, and celebrate this moment...and all the special moments and memories you treasure. Enjoy!

Jack Johnson - Upside Down lyrics

A beautiful bride...

2008-03-04T15:24:00.019-06:00

Two posts from me in one day - I think I'm going for a record here! But you can see why I was motivated to share. Elise, her mom, sister and I spent some lovely time photographing at water's edge. I'm sharing a lot of closeups for you, mom, as I know you may need one of those for the reception. But I just couldn't help but include more!

As a special surprise, I've created a painting from one of the images. I hope you like it - it was a pleasure to paint! And Elise, I wish you all the best in your new married life!

Only in Texas....

2008-03-04T15:08:00.011-06:00

...would one wear shorts while building a snowman. Granted, that "one" is a little zany and adventurous, and her pants were already soaked from the heavy, wet snow. The sun had come out and was nicely warming the day. So the obvious solution? Wear shorts, of course! LOL

A few snaps from our fleeting fun:

M and Lucy - her ever-faithful friend:

WHAT would make a dog run like this? A partially-deflated basketball that is her favorite toy! (You should see her carry it in her mouth!)

And a moment's peaceful reflection for me:

It's all about gone now. I'm so glad we were able to enjoy snowfall this year!

A Natural Girl

2008-02-12T00:04:00.000-06:00

Miss C is a delight! I loved her easy-going, natural personality. She's the genuine thing - no pretense, no airs. Just a delightful case of WYSIWYG. (What You See Is What You Get.) She is smart, pretty and just plain fun to hang out with. Game for anything, she loved the idea of wearing a formal dress to a not-so-formal location. Here's your sneak peek, as promised! Thanks so much for allowing me the privilege of photographing you!

This is Me

2008-01-24T14:14:00.001-06:00

Just for fun, I took this three-question personality test today. Amazing how much you can tell about a person by three little answers! LOL

Your Personality Is

Idealist (NF)

You are a passionate, caring, and unique person.
You are good at expressing yourself and sharing your ideals.

You are the most compassionate of all types and connect with others easily.
Your heart tends to rule you. You can't make decisions without considering feelings.

You seek out other empathetic people to befriend.
Truth and authenticity matters in your friendships.

In love, you give everything you have to relationships. You fall in love easily.

At work, you crave personal expression and meaning in your career.

With others, you communicate well. You can spend all night talking with someone.

As far as your looks go, you've likely taken the time to develop your own personal style.

On weekends, you like to be with others. Charity work is also a favorite pastime of yours.

The Three Question Personality Test

Rosescapes

2008-01-09T17:20:00.000-06:00

Another foray into macro fine art - with my birthday roses!

And back to the lovely Miss K!

2008-01-09T16:54:00.001-06:00

More than one person thought this looked like an ad for Baylor, which happens to be the university this talented, intelligent and lovely young lady hopes to attend. I tend to agree that she'd be a great representative! (So to the admissions staff, just know she has my hearty recommendation.) See for yourself:

And several more, because we just had so much fun:

I won't soon forget this field. Let's just say that 35 ant bites later, I was able to say that it was worth it!

Catch-Up Day!

2008-01-09T16:34:00.001-06:00

I hereby declare this Catch-Up Day! There are so many images I want to share. Let's start with the absolutely scrumptious Miss Scarlett. She couldn't be more adorable! This session was a blast - even though we did get a little toasty trying to make sure our beautiful little subject stayed cozy in her birthday suit! So here's your little sneak preview:

Well, you know what they say....

2008-01-02T13:04:00.000-06:00

....New Year's resolutions are made to be broken! But I'm really going to try to be better about blogging. The end of last year was "insane," (my boy's favorite word) and I found myself stretched to just get the basics done. But I've resolved to do several things better in 2008, including drink more water, get out of my computer chair and walk every now and then (!) and then come home and blog. In the interest of shooting a wide variety of things that inspire me and tell stories, I've joined Flickr's 365+1 group. A picture a day for a whole year. Think I can do it? I'm going to try. You'll see quite a few of these images here, as well.

Rolling up my sleeves...click!

Here's the first entry and the little story behind it:

Each member of my family seems to relish the idea of hanging this delicate handblown teardrop. It will soon be put away until next December, when once more eager hands will be longing to give it its place of honor just under the star.

Because I just can't resist!

2007-11-04T23:56:00.000-06:00

I've known this beautiful young lady since she was a speck! What a privilege to watch her grow into the person she is today: graceful, poised, talented and sincere. Miss K., you have a wonderful road of blessings before you. And I strongly suspect that you will be a blessing in everyone's life you touch!

And to mom, you know me well enough to know I couldn't resist publishing at least ONE...! So here's your preview (read: teaser.) Will get back to more after Brianna Graham's workshop! And to those photographer friends who plan on attending with me: I can't wait!

Introducing "All Through The Year!"

2007-10-22T22:54:00.000-05:00

There are some years that are just so special, you want to remember every moment. Perhaps it's the celebration of a new life, or your first year together with that very special someone. It may be your senior year of high school, bursting with activity and events like homecoming, prom, sports, and graduation.

Debra Klawetter Photography now offers a convenient and value-packed way to remember those moments: an innovative series of portrait sessions called All Through the Year.

Here's what you get:

Three sessions, including an optional extended session (can be used for a senior, newborn, or immediate family session for up to 5 people)
A $150 print credit to be used at each session ($450 total)
One 8x10 print from each session

Your choice of the following, one to be used from each session:

A mini accordion-style brag book
24 wallets
25 fine art greeting cards or announcements (perfect for baby or graduation announcements, or Christmas cards)

At the end of your year, you will receive:

The Timeline Album, a beautiful handmade leather book containing a minimum of 30 5x7 images from the three sessions (upgrade to a coffee-style album is available)
A DVD slideshow of the best images from your sessions, set to music

Your choice of:

a framed 20x10 storyboard containing 3-5 images from the year OR
a 16x20 fine art gallery-wrapped canvas

Two to three weeks after each session, 20-30 images will be placed in an online gallery for 5 days. Additional orders can be placed by you, your family, or friends during that time. As a member of All Through the Year, your print prices are locked for the entire year, beginning from the date of your first session. Total value of this collection is $2,195. Available for a limited time for $1500. Have questions or need more details? Just email me using the link in the right-hand column! Not for you? Ask about my traditional sessions.

All Through the Year can be customized for your moments, for your milestones, for your year.

Because I know mom has been waiting....

2007-10-10T22:56:00.000-05:00

And rightfully so! What a great session! I've been having fun with studio lights recently, especially since summer in Texas seems to be holding on...and on...and on...! These two sisters were wonderful to work with. And Murphy, their little dachshund, behaved herself so nicely and generously shared kisses with anyone who wanted one. So without any further ado....

And an outtake....

.............................................or is it?

Thank you, J and W (and Murphy, too!) for a very special session! And mom, there are "smiley" ones, too. I just know you love serious looks! Can't wait to show you the rest!

To catch you up a little....

2007-09-19T11:26:00.000-05:00

This summer and early fall have been a blur, and I have been MIA for much of it. Unfortunately, I discovered first-hand what pneumonia is like. I don't wish it on anyone! It knocked me off my feet and wiped a few weeks off my calendar. Thanks to all my clients - and everyone else - for your patience. It's been a challenging road, but I can now say I'm 99% back! I'm grateful for all your support and prayers.

Here are some of my favorite shots of recent; please check back for more soon. I'll be here -I promise! :-)

Congratulations to the beautiful Miss E! Your quinceanera was so much fun and such a privilege to photograph!

They don't come any cuter than the adorable and HAPPY Miss A:And her wonderful big brother, E:

And a couple of personal shots...
Just a snapshot of my own daughter with her sweet cousin during a quick but wonderful visit to my beloved Buckeye State:

My eldest son. How can he be so grown up? It was just yesterday we were preparing for kindergarten. Now we're getting college information in the mail almost daily.
I'm so proud of you!

Bad, Bad Blogger

2007-08-03T17:09:00.000-05:00

Okay, I need to live up to it...I've been a terrible, negligent blogger lately! In my defense, I've been busy with many wonderful sessions and events over the recent weeks and have focused on creating my website (I know - finally!) I am in the process of adding custom framing to my offerings, have taken a wonderful vacation, and most recently have dealt with a nasty long-lasting illness that's been passed around to the majority of my family members one-by-one. I'm still in the midst of it, but at least I have the energy to type today! :-)

I've missed keeping up with you, and promise there will soon be a LOT of new pictures to view! Thanks for checking back in with me!

Sometimes it's the little things...

2007-06-26T14:58:00.001-05:00

I love taking in details! I used to drive my family and friends nearly crazy, shouting at them to "Stop! Come look at this!" Sometimes it was on a grand scale, like the particular way the sky faded from dusky blue to deep night. Often it was on a tiny scale: a perfect sparkling snowflake or smooth and softly tinted seashell. Yesterday I had such fun experimenting with my new macro lens (a Nikkor 60 mm micro for all my photographer friends with great curiosity!) Here are some of my results. Look for more to come, as sometimes it IS in the little things that we find great joy!

And my breakfast! Yum!

I can't believe I'm doing this...

2007-06-18T17:25:00.000-05:00

So I've been challenged to photograph my workspace by a photographer friend. I'm one of those...ahem....creative but organizationally-challenged people. Oh, it would be an interesting - and revealing - project, I thought!!!

First confession: I'm a beverage person. I have a beverage going at almost all times. Water, Diet Coke, tea, coffee, you name it. It was a particularly hot day here, and I had little sleep last night. Here's the evidence, the "Remains of the Day:"

And (gulp) an even more revealing look. (Thank GOODNESS I don't have a wider-angle lens yet. It's on my wishlist, though.) I've annotated it for you, as I know this must be fascinating. Please go easy on me; this took courage!

There you have it. Wow. That was a freeing experience. And if you'll still claim me as friend/relative/photographer, I humbly thank you! :-)

A study in grace, poise and beauty

2007-06-09T21:15:00.000-05:00

Meet the lovely Miss E, who will be celebrating her quinceañera in just two weeks! A joy to work with, she is mature way beyond her years. One seldom meets such a graceful and sweet young lady. I look forward to celebrating and documenting your special day for you!

I know you've been waiting, so without further ado....

Just being a boy!

2007-05-20T11:52:00.000-05:00

Boys are so much fun! I so enjoyed the big brother of Little Miss L! This shoot took me back to my boys' "caterpillar days." Here is a custom collage I created using some of these images.

I just can't resist adding a couple more of Miss L. What a doll!

Oh, I just can't resist!

2007-05-17T16:12:00.000-05:00

This is a wonderfully busy week with back-to-back sessions, and I'm loving them all! I just had to peek at today's cutie...so mom, here's the promised sneak peek for you, too! There are lots more where this came from. What a fun time we had! :-)

Happy Mother's Day!

2007-05-13T19:12:00.000-05:00

Here's to all moms! Though sometimes it's imperceivable, know that you making an immeasurable difference in this world through your love, devotion and sacrifice. I applaud you!

And here's a special Mother's Day gift to my friend, J. I have finished painting your precious daughter's portrait! Within a short time, I will be offering painted portraits to my clients. I am thrilled about this!

I love "field trips!"

2007-04-24T16:08:00.000-05:00

The results of a recent venture into a poppy field. You know, you just can't help but smile when you're in a field of poppies!

Seeing Double

Entwined

Poppy Panorama

Reach

Holding Steady

Could she be any sweeter?

2007-04-13T09:48:00.000-05:00

Meet Miss "E," whose picture appears in the dictionary beside "sugar and spice and everything nice!" What fun it was to photograph her!
You can see where she gets at least some of her stunning beauty! :)

My latest blogstar

2007-04-09T17:46:00.000-05:00

Ever feel like your job is just a little too much fun? It truly doesn't get any better than loving what you do each day. I got to work with another senior recently who confirmed all that's wonderful about photography for me. Meet M, whose easygoing personality and quick smile made creating these images a pleasure!

I could share tons more - it's going to be hard to choose! M, I wish you all the best on your journey! (Go Bears!) :-)

Seniors are a blast!

2007-04-02T19:45:00.000-05:00

I love seeing the complete uniqueness in people, and I'm thankful to have the most wonderful career that allows me to closely observe and enjoy that! By the time a high school student reaches their senior year, many of the facets of their personalities have come into clear view, and you know they're on the brink of something big. I believe that they've been fashioned to fulfill a unique purpose in this world. There's so much potential there - I can't help but feel excited for them about the adventures that lie ahead! I love to capture who they are and what they love. Once more, meet my young friend "A," who will no doubt soar like the planes he admires and knows so much about.

A New Life!

2007-03-28T17:12:00.000-05:00

I love the many reminders we have in springtime of New Life. To me, it doesn't get much better than watching the world transition from dormant brown to lush green, hearing the cheerful chirping of celebratory birds, and enjoying the wonderful "just-right" temperatures experience for but a few short weeks here. This spring has brought an even more awe-inspiring experience for me.

I was given the opportunity to discover something about myself, something that personally and professionally I had very much desired to learn: would I enjoy the experience of birth photography? By divine appointment, I believe, a wonderful family welcomed me into their lives and hearts. I was thrilled to have the amazing privilege of being there with them to document the arrival of Miss C into the world! And yes, I shed some tears of joy over this incredible miracle of new life...how could I not? Here is a bit of her story:

And by the way, the answer to my question is a resounding "yes!" I will be offering birth photography to my clients in the very near future!

Spring is still springing!

2007-03-26T18:10:00.000-05:00

This time I'll just let the images speak for themselves. :-)

Sunshine in a little pot of flowers!

2007-03-21T17:14:00.000-05:00

I love spring! Though it's been a little dreary and gray here the last few days, I have a gloriously bright spot to enjoy each day. I have thoroughly enjoyed the little arrangement of flowers that grows on my back deck. Yes, it's actually growing...thriving, as a matter of fact. That is nearly a miracle, as I'm not known for my green thumb! Someone must be smiling on me! I hope these images bring you a breath of springtime pleasure, as well. Lucy loves flowers, most of all for digging and consuming. If you look closely, you'll notice the evidence on her nose!

Happy spring!!!

I never know what I'll find...

2007-02-27T09:35:00.000-06:00

...when I wake my daughter in the morning! This is what I found this morning. Best friends sharing a cuddle, telling secrets, being a little bit lazy...together!
May all our days start with warmth and tenderness shared with those we love. Here's to friends!

Sometimes Being a Mom Can Be a Tough Job!

2007-02-17T18:44:00.000-06:00

Most of us know something of the sacrifices a mom makes, whether we are moms ourselves or just happened to have one! We know something of the hours of hard work, the hours of lost sleep, the hours of driving, the hours of listening, the hours of attending games, school plays, etc. Yes, being a good mother often translates into spending time with our children. And before we know it, the hours add up to days, weeks, months and years. In my case, 16 of them. Yes, my oldest son turned 16 this week. You know what? It was really hard! I never dreamed how emotional I would be as he reached this milestone. He's such a joy to have around, such a wonderful young man...and I realize that the days he will live at home are numbered. I am so proud of you, son! And I will treasure the hours....

My favorite - and very tall - 16-year-old!

To think I knew him when...

2007-02-11T01:58:00.000-06:00

...he was a rambunctious first-grader! Now "A" is a senior in high school. Still full of a zest for living, he's a young man bursting with promise. There's warmth and intelligence in his eyes. Do you see it, too? Best wishes, "A," on your journey. I look forward to watching you move on to the next stages of your life.

And for you, "A" a fun look:
(Mom and Dad, ask me to see the more traditional version of this.)

What a way to bring in the new year

2007-02-06T15:33:00.000-06:00

Chinese New Year, that is! (No, I'm not late, but early - for once.) My dd and I had the wonderful privilege of attending the performance of New Tang Dynasty Television's Chinese New Year Spectacular. It was spectacular, indeed! Here are a few of my favorite images:

Here's wishing everyone a Happy Year of the Boar!

There's "Snow" Way...

2007-02-03T01:07:00.000-06:00

...to describe with words what a few flurries do for my little girl! So I'll let the pictures speak for themselves.

Don't laugh - I know it looks like dandruff, but a few flurries are very much appreciated here. (If I had a nickel for every time she exclaimed, "Mommy, Mommy, MOMMY!" over our two slightly-snowy days!)

I used to think I was busy...

2007-01-03T23:16:00.000-06:00

How do they do it? With just the right mix of structure, adaptability, grace, love and humor! :) Meet Mr. S, Miss O, and Miss Z and their wonderful parents. Aren't they the most adorable triplets?

And because their grandparents can't get enough...

Sometimes things go more smoothly than others:
But at the end of the day, it's love that gets them through, and love that is its own reward.

The Potter's Hands

2006-12-21T09:09:00.000-06:00

My daughter and I had the recent pleasure of visiting a local pottery studio/gallery. During our time there, she created two beautiful pieces. They may not win awards in a juried show, but watching her create them with the help of the master potter was such fun! It was wonderful to see her satisfaction as they took the shape she had envisioned for them. They will always be treasured.

Reflecting on this experience made me glad that the Master Potter, always patient and deliberate, is not content to leave me in my current state, but is continually shaping me, smoothing away my rough edges, patching the occasional crack, and ultimately, creating a vessel for His use. I may not see His full plan, but I can trust that I am safe in His hands.

My heart was warmed and won

2006-12-20T22:25:00.000-06:00

by this darling, adventurous little girl. Miss "R," I have no doubt that you will go places in this world! And I hope to get to watch you get there. Thank you for letting me photograph you!

A small, intimate group

2006-11-25T10:10:00.000-06:00

of 15!

I was recently blessed to be able to photograph one of the most beautiful families I have ever known or met. The legacy of love and faith the parents have passed on to their children and grandchildren is such a joy to behold. They are tons of fun to be around, as well! Thank you, Family M!

Hey, who won the annual family Thanksgiving football game?

An extraordinary family...

2006-11-09T23:13:00.000-06:00

...an extraordinary story!

Adoption touches lives in such a beautiful way, including the life of my own family. I was blessed to be able to photograph these handsome young men, born in Russia and adopted by loving parents here. Have I mentioned that I love the families I work with?

The true spirit of these wonderful boys: "Chasing Squirrels"

I'm having so much fun!

2006-11-07T16:28:00.000-06:00

And I'm loving the people I've gotten to work with this year! But....one photographer can only do so much. Just wanted to let everyone know that I am now booked through the end of this year. Call or e-mail me to get your appointment scheduled for the early months of 2007. You can take advantage of my current pricing structure by booking your session before December 15. Sessions booked after that date will be subject to my new prices.

I'm excited to be getting closer to launching my website. And you thought it would never happen. Watch here for details!

Just one of my favorite images of 2006, the adorable and charming "Miss S!"

A fun guy, and a great compliment!

2006-11-04T22:43:00.000-06:00

I recently had the privilege of photographing Layne, a good friend of my son. Gifted in both art and music, I think he enjoyed the whole experience. Later, he told my son that he thought I was "pretty cool," and that I was "half-artsy, half-mom!" Thanks, Layne ~ I think you're cool, too!

Inspiration by the Bucketful!

2006-11-03T21:34:00.000-06:00

Take 35 talented photographers, full of passion for their art, full of unique and wonderful approaches to working out their own vision - even if it be of the same subject. Now imagine these photographers in a vibrant city, which happens to be concurrently hosting a marathon with 40,000 runners - Chicago! Give them the opportunity to photograph children who are used to being in front of the camera, yes, even Ford models. Now imagine, if you will, the opportunity for these 35 to be instructed and inspired by one of the premiere child photographers in the world...Audrey Woulard. I was privileged to be one of these photographers, and I have come back with loads of inspiration, many new friends, and more than a few pictures I'd like to share:

1,000 miles is just too far...

2006-10-25T21:55:00.000-05:00

Oh, I miss getting together with my family! We were recently blessed to have my brother, sister-in-law, and niece come for a visit. How much fun we had! We packed a lot in for the few days they were here - the arboretum, an arts festival, the State Fair, a round of golf, and a swim outing, to name a few. Here are some of my favorite images...

Napa Journey

2006-08-23T21:41:00.000-05:00

Can a place find its way into your heart after just one day? Can a day of traveling with three children be called a romantic journey? Miraculously, perhaps, I think so. The Napa hillsides enchanted us with their pristine rows of lush vines juxtaposed with waving golden grasses, interspersed with grand and noble wineries as well and charming, quaint ones. There was something about the quality of the light, the palatte of colors in the hills and sky, that caused me to draw in my breath. It would be a great place to go as a couple, and I hope to return for a more leisurely visit. This time around, we had to endure groans of, "Why do we need to stop at another vinyard?" "Isn't this place just like the last?" "I'm hot. When will we get to Yosemite?" Here are a few images from our brief but beautiful time in Napa Valley.

Beringer grapes

Gorgeous flowers were everywhere.

And of course....grapes!

Peju, our favorite vinyard.

Peju's lovely grounds.

Even barrels are beautiful at Peju!

Waiting to be sampled...

Stained glass in Peju's tasting room.

Hope you enjoyed the journey! Get ready for Yosemite, a favorite destination of Ansel Adams - and me, too!

Taking Time out from the Normal Routine

2006-08-07T11:41:00.000-05:00

What do you get when you take a family of five, a loaded-down minivan, a packed itinerary and thirteen days to explore California? A LOT of fun and a LOT of togetherness! Our recent trip was a great time to reconnect with one another and with friends, to enjoy some beautiful sights, and of course, to take a lot of pictures to remember it all by. And since a picture is worth a thousand words, I'll stop my ramblings and share a few. So put on your walking shoes and come along! Today we'll tour San Fransisco:

I so wanted to be on one of these sailboats!

A quick snap of the family. (Disclaimer: These people don't want to take the time to set up anything. "Snap and let's go!" is the motto here.)

Some ruins from Alcatraz, a nice roosting place for a gull and his mate.

Maci loved the funhouse mirror! She's getting quite tall these days...

Evan waiting for the cable cars. California set record-breaking temperatures during this most unusual heatwave, so the 1.5 hour line was not much fun for him. We can, however, say we did ride the trolley. Love those bells!

Tune in soon for a tour of the Wine Country!

Fresh beginnings and second chances...

2006-06-26T17:04:00.000-05:00

I'm so thankful for them! Every day holds promise of a fresh start. It may be a time to try something new, or maybe just try again. A time to embrace the moment and make the most of it.

We've had a wonderful reminder of this in our backyard over the last months. A pair of mockingbirds had built a nest in a low vine on our deck. We enjoyed the anticipation of watching the five blue-and-brown speckled eggs. After about two weeks, five little hatchlings filled the nest. It was fascinating to be able to see into the nest so clearly. We especially enjoyed feeding time, as the little open-beaked birds demanded their fair share. They began to grow and get their feathers. Their eyes opened. But then...something happened. I woke up one sad morning to find that all five were gone. There was not a trace of them remaining. I'm not sure if it was a cat or a predatory bird, but we were so sad to see them come to this end.

A few weeks later, the pair* came back and built a new nest, still in a vine, but this time much more hidden and protected. We were again able to observe the daily routine of the nest. This time, four eggs were laid. Of the four, three hatched. This time, they have grown to the point of almost crowding one another out of their tiny abode. I've been out with my camera a number of times (imagine that!) with the parents loudly warning me from the roof of our house. Hopefully they've learned that I won't hurt their babies. I just try not to interrupt meal time for too long! They have almost all their feathers now, and I expect that any day now, they will stretch their wings to fly. And what a joy it will be to see that!

* How do I know it was "the" pair, you ask? I just know. Of course, they have to be! ;-)

Realizing a Dream

2006-05-16T14:07:00.000-05:00

Tuesday, May 16, 2006

How amazing it is to get to realize a dream! For so long, I have desired to make a small difference in the world through my images, through touching the lives of people whose paths, if only for a moment, intersect my own. Through the grace of God, I am watching that dream unfold. It is taking plenty of planning and hard work, but it is the dream itself that pulls me onward and upward. And as I have believed, I have been encouraged by others who have believed along with me. Thank you.

I am exhilarated. I am humbled. I am very, very, grateful.

The text in the storyboard below reads: To accomplish great things, we must not only act, but also dream; not only plan, but also believe. ~Anatole France

Do you remember?

2006-05-12T11:20:00.000-05:00

May 12, 2006

I have spent a lot of time the last few days remembering. Remembering my wonderful, loving grandmother. Remembering long summer days spent shelling lima beans with her on the back porch. Remembering the fresh smell of green grass, homemade rhubarb pie, and heaps of mashed potatoes, which she urged be finished by her quite-already-satisfied family. Remembering the warmth that radiated from her.

I also remembered my father, who was strong, sincere and generous. Who loved life and family, and made each moment count. Who set an example in honesty, hard work and dependability. Who loved sacrificially and without complaint. And if all this is too serious, who played a killer round of golf and had an amazing "sky hook" shot! :)

I remember what it was like to live in the imaginary world of a child. Whether trying on the glass slipper that led to "happily ever after" or chasing ferocious wolves or singing and dancing without a care in the world, childhood was, and is magical.

I remember who I am and where I came from and the people that shaped and influenced me the most. I am grateful to God for all those whose lives have touched mine so deeply.

Do you remember?

A Tribute to my Grandmother

2006-05-12T11:03:00.000-05:00

May 5, 2006

I got the sad news that my grandmother passed away this morning. She was an amazing lady, and I want to honor her memory by sharing just a bit about her.

She was 92, and until about the last year or so, was able to get down on the floor to play with babies and get back up - all by herself! She loved babies and children so much, and was never happier than when family got together and she got to hold and love those little ones. When her friends become dependent on walkers and scooters, she refused, saying that she had to keep using her legs to stay strong. Last summer she went down her steep stairway into the basement and defrosted her freezer by herself, "forgetting" to tell anyone she was going to do it. She kept her mind sharp, and had the librarian bring her every large print book that came in. She did crossword puzzles and cryptograms better than the average 30-year-old. She loved to play cards, and was quite competitive around the bridge table - known for an occassional colorful expression when the cards she wanted did not come her way. She was a hard worker (a bit of a perfectionist) and had arguably the best garden in the country until she was no longer able to keep it up. Every summertime meal was graced with freshly grown fruits and vegetables. Even last summer, she grew beautiful flowers, as you can see. (Sadly, her green thumb gene was not passed on to me.) She was adventurous, and drove my brother's speedboat for a little while on Lake Erie at the age of 88! She was a strong woman, who pressed on through the deaths of her parents and all but one of her siblings, her grandson, her husband and her son (my father.) She told my aunt last night that she was "ready to go." If I can live life with half the strength, courage, and love that she has, I will consider it a life very well lived.