Wow, this is crazy! I have never experienced snow like this. It is both beautiful, and a bit scary. We have found ourselves stranded at times, and so thankful at times that we have lots of food in the pantry, just in case. We couldn’t get down the hill late last week, and although we made it at other times, it seems like the risk just isn’t worth it. I made the major mistake of trying to run a few errands yesterday in Woodinville. Traffic was insane, parking lots were completely full, and there weren’t any shopping carts to use once you got inside!! A trip that should have taken two hours turned into nearly six. Luckily I had my best bud with me, and we used our time to talk about everything from the economy, to communication issues in marriage. Ever notice how good you feel after just talking with a really close girl-friend. I find I feel renewed, with a better perspective, and ready to face the world. There is nothing that compares to a good talk with a good friend. That is what I am thankful for this week: my best friend who totally gets me, and wants to talk about it.
Baby Owen December 16, 2008
Jen was in town to support her good friend Erin’s art opening at the newest location for Twilight art in Seattle ( www.twilightart.net ). By the way, CONGRATULATIONS Erin and Andrew on your recent engagement!!!!!
She brought her youngest son Owen, and made it over for lunch, followed by a portrait session for little “O”. Jen was one of our first friends when we moved here from Santa Barbara six or so years ago. We were lucky enough to be present when her first son was born, and although they have relocated to Lousianna, her extended family is here so we still get to see them a few times a year. Baby O is super happy, cuddly, and simply sweet. Jen wasn’t ready for her closeup, but knew she wanted one quick shot of the two of them together. So glad she did, look how sweet it turned out! Thanks for making time to stop by, and we’ll see you in the spring!!
Let it snow, Let it snow, Let it snow December 15, 2008
On this lazy Sunday, I am so thankful for the snow!! There is something so peaceful about a blanket of soft, fluffy snow on the ground. I love the cozy feeling of a warm fire and a hot cup of tea. I love not getting out of my pajamas all day because there is nowhere to go. I love sleeping in, and waking to this beautiful view of the lake. Kona thinks snow equals play, and she literally whines at the door not because she needs to go out for a potty break, but because she really really really likes to run and play in the snow. It is one of her favorite things! Kona is the pup, in case you’re confused 
I hope everyone has had a wonderful, lazy, snowy Sunday…
“Oh the weather outside is frightful, but the fire is so delightful. And since we’ve no place to go…
LET IT SNOW, LET IT SNOW, LET IT SNOW”
Michelle, Tim, Mathew & Ashley December 11, 2008
What a fun time I had with this family last weekend. They told me Ashley wasn’t feeling well, but you can’t tell in the pictures! Everyone bundled up and we headed around the corner from their home to a little park. This family works really well together, and they are wonderfully calm, and patient. I love the shot of the whole family up on the hill, and I couldn’t resist taking about twenty head shots of little Ashley. Mathew is a great big brother, and it was great working with this family for the first time. Your pictures just got released today on Pictage.com, but these are my favorites for sure!
Sybil, Trevor and Baby Cash December 11, 2008
Look at those eyes!! Cash has stolen my heart… he is so sweet, and was very patient with us last weekend. The whole family did a great job, and their shoot was a success! It is so fun for me to watch families as they grow. I photographed Sybil and Trevor’s wedding reception just a few years ago, and now they have the cutest little addition. Seriously, have you ever seen a cuter mohawk??? Thanks you guys, it was wonderful to see you, and catch up on things. Your pictures just got released on Pictage today… ENJOY!!!
Times are Tough December 8, 2008
Times are tough. Period. And it looks as though they aren’t going to get better any time soon. Doing a weekly gratitude journal has really helped me to keep things in perspective. Now, I admit that this doesn’t mean that I am blissfully happy every minute of every day, but I am forced on a weekly basis to re-center myself on a positive note. I am thankful in particular today for life’s simple pleasures like: napping, reading a good book, having dinner with close friends, sipping on a fabulous glass of red wine, getting massages (haven’t had one of those in WAY too long), going for walks around the lake, a clean house, a hot bath.
It will only take a few minutes for you to make a quick list of five simple pleasures. I guarantee it will brighten your day!
Also: I have decided to offer interest free financingg via credit card processing on Pictage.com! Payments are pre-set, and once your account is created, the payments simply go on your card of choice without you having to do a thing! So for my 2009 brides you can begin making payments now, and have your photography costs covered by your wedding date. This can also be used for portrait sessions. Please contact me for more information: 425.281.1438
Another Successful Boudoir shoot December 4, 2008
Oh my goodness!! I had a fabulous time at another boudoir party last weekend. We all spent a little time getting inspired by the siren herself: Marilyn Monroe. Huddled around a laptop, we talked about her facial expressions, the lighting that we liked, and some of the poses too. We then got right to work, and I couldn’t be more pleased. I love love love doing these shoots! So many giggles, and it is wonderful to see the women cheer each other on, telling one another what looks good, and oohing and ahhing over the shots I show them on the back of the camera. The participants leave with a sense of empowerment, and feeling absolutely beautiful. And I always leave with a smile, and feeling like I have a few new friends. I’m keeping the price low, so what are you waiting for??? I’ll add a few of these to the site under boudoir:
Molly, Scott, Ethan & Carys December 3, 2008
Check out this gorgeous family!! I have had the pleasure of getting to know Molly and Scott over the past few months, and this is the first time I have met their adorable children. Lucky is the name of the game… the rain stopped just long enough once again for my trademark outdoor shots. I particularly love the shot of the family playing outside. Looking forward to another BBQ with you guys! Hope to see you soon…
Grateful for a full belly December 2, 2008
You know, out of all the things I think we overlook every day, it is the satisfaction of a full belly.
Now, I can also admit that over the holidays, I allow my belly to get a little too full. I go for seconds, I have dessert before I am ready, I eat way too many appetizers, and often have too much bubbly. At Thanksgiving this year, which is often quiet as my husband and I stay home, sometimes with a friend or two over to share in the meal, we had more than enough. Our plan was to have leftovers, but after we had finished, and looked back at the buffet, we had to take a moment to be thankful for the bountiful hot food still sitting on our kitchen counter. I know many go without that spread, and many more go without hot meals for far too long. I am so thankful that not only could we afford this meal, we had a warm, comfy home in which to prepare it. I am also thankful that purchasing this food is as easy as hopping in the car, and heading down to the friendly Duval Safeway. Again, seems simple, but for far too many people, a grocery store full of food isn’t even available. We have much to be thankful for, and a full belly is just one…
