Something Good

I thought I hated winter. Most of my life I have cursed its poor, helpless name. But after this day, I realized that it's not winter I hate, just the frigid cold that comes with it. When I opened the door on this particular day, I actually smiled, and was so glad I had the privelege of seeing the crisp, white, frost covered branches on all the trees in my backyard. And...it reminded me to be thankful. Life is too short to waste it away complaining. There is something good to be found in everything (even winter!).


Thank you, Mark, for helping me see the good in everything...and for pointing it out to me when I have tunnel-vision:) AND for helping me put this video together (I'm very blessed to have such a talented teacher). It was a great chance to practice using my new camera:) Had heaps of fun doing it! Enjoy!

Nathan // Newborn

This little guy made his triumphant entry into the world a few days before Christmas. Welcome to the world, Nathan. It is SO nice to meet you:) My favourite thing about newborns is hearing about their arrival. The love and emotion that is behind the story gets me every time. There is an unspoken connection between mum and dad as they talk; their casual glances at each other as they speak tells much more than their words ever say. This (literally) life-changing experience has brought them deeper and closer. And they have a whole new level of respect for each other. Especially for mum:) There is such beauty in these stories. Elmer and Wanda, thank you for sharing yours with me. And when Baby Nathan grows up I hope he can experience this 'first' love that his parents had for him when he watches this video and hears the story, too.
I had the pleasure of doing this shoot alongside my bff...a.k.a. Moments Photography by Marian! Always a good time to work with your bff. Thanks, Mar! You can view her photos from N's session over here!

Sister Love // Family

It was a very proud day for little Miss Mckinley when she became a big sister. She absolutely beams with the new role and responsibility of loving, protecting, entertaining, and smothering little sis with hugs and kisses. Melts my heart! Stacey, thank you so much for allowing me to spend the afternoon with you and your girls, documenting the 'ordinary' happenings in your day. I love how you love your girls.
Mckinley didn't even blink at the camera, she simply did her 'thang' as if I weren't even there! Couldn't have asked for a better (or more willing) subject! She is a very busy little girl, which made filming a lot of fun. From the painting to the music and dancing...I see an artistic future for this little one:)

Hey Jude // Newborn

One of my BFF's had a baby. Having no nieces, nephews, or kids of my own, this is the first baby in my life I have fallen so completely and head-over-heels in love with. Watching my good friends become parents has been extremely fascinating. They were excited throughout their pregnancy for this new chapter in their lives, but nothing can really prepare anyone for how much their lives will change when that new little person joins their family. And this is all from an outsiders perspective! Hearing them talk, and seeing the looks on their faces when they held that new baby in their arms was beauty itself. In their arms is an extension of themselves, a piece of each of them. And I can't say what was going through their minds, but they looked so completely, and utterly content. Blessings to you as you begin this journey. Love you guys!