kelly harper photography {the blog}

New year. New blog. {Snohomish and King County Photographer}

2011-01-01T20:30:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!!! What a perfect day to introduce something BRAND spankin new... my NEW blog! Head on over HERE to check out where all the action is happening. If you follow this blog, please update your links to my new blog, so that you don't miss out on a thing! Thanks!

xoxo
Kelly

I'll be home for Christmas {Monroe, WA family photographer}

2010-12-30T20:57:00.001-08:00

Christmas eve, I ventured over to a wonderful family's home to take some portraits! It was a rainy morning, so we mainly stayed inside, and everyone in the group got in on the action {including the dogs!}=)

This family seemed so proud to all be together and even more excited to celebrate their youngest {4 month's old} first Christmas! Such a sweetie!

Hope you enjoy your sneak peek!

**This family will receive a FREE 5x7 with their print order, if they receive 10 comments under this blog posting!

Merry Christmas {Monroe, WA baby photographer}

2010-12-21T15:04:00.001-08:00

House decorated. Check.

Christmas cards mailed. Check.

Presents wrapped. Check.

Cookies baked. Check.

Gingerbread house made. Check.

Lights seen. Check.

Christmas meal planned. Check.

Art projects made. Check.

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation watched. Check.

SLOW down and spend time with family. IN PROGRESS.

Meditating on this:

Today in the town of David a SAVIOR has been born to YOU; he is CHRIST the LORD.

Luke 2:11

This good news STILL gets me every time. We've been very intentional in our household about giving this year and sharing the Christmas story with Ben. It has been so much fun hearing him ask questions and watching him run and grab his little step stool to reach up and see all of my Willow Tree Nativity figures. We have talked a lot about the above verse, even memorizing it together. Last night, at our co-op pre-school group, I sat in front of five 3 year olds and shared with them the Christmas story. A story that never gets old. Breaking it down for them in words that their three year old minds could understand, which really wasn't too hard because the story is pretty simple.

God loves us.

So much.

That He gave us His son.

Born in a stinky barn.

Surrounded by donkeys and cows and hay.

Under a SHINING star.

And, His name was Jesus.

Pretty stinkin A-MAZING!

SO... my wish for you this Christmas:

Amidst all of the craziness and busyness that the Christmas season tends to bring, I hope you find REST for yourself. TIME with your family. JOY in giving. And, PEACE when you hear the Christmas story.

{And, I just HAD to include this picture... because how can a Santa baby NOT bring a smile to your face?}

Mr. Jack {Tukwilla, WA newborn photographer}

2010-12-15T20:46:00.001-08:00

It has been so fun to reconnect with old high school friends lately! Many of my clients have been long lost friends from back in the day. Heather is one of those friends!

It was so great seeing her again and meeting her husband and new son, Jack last Saturday!

We took full advantage of their large windows inside and captured Jack in all of his glory, while he slept on and off for us. What an ADORABLE baby! I am so excited that I will get to see him and the rest of his family throughout this next year, as he is our newest "First Year" baby! I love watching these little guys grow! Gosh, it just goes so fast!

I hope you enjoy your sneak peek! There are many, many more to come of your little stud!

**Remember, this family will receive a FREE 5x7 with their print order, if they receive 10 comments under their blog posting! So, show the Christmas love=)

Kelly Moore bags {Monroe, WA photographer}

2010-12-11T19:49:00.000-08:00

Since purchasing my new camera {aka. my new baby}, I am now on the hunt for a versatile camera bag, that will keep my gear safe and provide comfort while wearing it. I have heard a lot about Kelly Moore bags, so I am looking into them! I am digging the function, the wearability {I LOVE bags that I can wear messenger style}, and I also think they are pretty cute! And, heck... I would double this baby as a purse!

Hmmm...

Cascade Community Church's Christmas Bazaar {Monroe, WA photographer}

2010-12-06T19:21:00.001-08:00

What a BUSY, but fun weekend I just had! Jeff can attest, that he has rarely seen me for the past month, as I have been getting ready for this event, finishing up sessions, and coming out with some new and exciting products. I think a lot about how lucky I am to have him as my husband. He supports me through and through and has done SO much to help me out {as he says, he is my marketing manager, PR guy, and accountant} and to help with the kids lately! I am forever grateful to him.

Onto telling you about the bazaar! As I mentioned earlier, there were SO many amazing, talented vendors. I felt fortunate to be even set up amongst them and it was great to meet a few! Below... a few pics!

My little booth...
**sidenote: My parents drove up from Kent to come to the bazaar and to see me! I felt so supported by them. Made me feel very special!

Who doesn't love a little chocolate?

My dear friend and mentor, Michelle, from Michelle Newell Photography. Inside joke: we seem to have the same taste with our old antique windows!=))) This girl has some serious talent with the camera! I am blessed to know her and to call her my friend!

I met the sweetest ladies {Charity and Amy} from Dicey Jane Threads. They had the cutest purses, aprons, and accessories out at their booth! I even bought an adorable flower pin, I'm excited to wear. If you are interested in their homemade goods, check them out here and here.

Another friend, Mitzi Felts... I call her the triple threat. She moonlights as part time wedding coordinator, part time owner of Witzi, and part time sewer of these amazing lovies, blankets, and burp clothes. I hear she is opening an etsy shop to sell these beautiful handmade goods!

And lastly, I met Pamela, who makes the cutest leather cuffs! I had to grab one of those too! She fashions them out of old leather belts she finds. She doesn't have an etsy shop just yet, but I think she should!

There were SO many more vendors, I didn't have the chance to meet that have some serious talent. I so admire women who create with their hands.

It was fun to be a part of this event, and even better to meet so many people who stopped by my booth! I might just have to do this again next year!

Just in time for the holidays... {Monroe, WA child and family photographer}

2010-12-01T20:12:00.001-08:00

...Perfect add-on's to your current order or future orders AND a delightful {yes, I said "delightful"} gift idea!

My heart has loved photographing such special people over the past year. Babies, children, families, expectant mommas, Graduates, and even a few loving couples sprinkled in there, as well. It is so special to me to get to be a part of documenting such special moments and seasons within other people's lives. But, I have come to believe that taking that picture is only have of the process of remembering a moment. The other half, requires some sort of archiving.

In the digital age, it is easy for us to just throw or even organize our images on the computer, only to glance at them every once in awhile. Even I am guilty of that. But, to print out, to display in an album, to frame these precious moments, even hang them on the walls of our home creates such warmth in remembering. There are many times when I hurriedly pass through our hallway and catch a glimpse of one of my sweet children smiling at me from our hung gallery of frames. I often pause and take a quick closer look and for that split second, my heart is warmed.

As your photographer, this is my desire for you as well. It is this kind of archiving that I am after.

So, without further ado, I am excited to introduce to you the first of a few new products I am now offering {more to come in the new year!}.

Introducing...

*{Custom} Family Albums and Mini Accordion Albums*

Let me share with you a bit about these wonderfully new products...

{Custom} Family Album

This coffee table book is truly spectacular! Designed especially for you to highlight your family’s session. Available in a 10x10 size, the pages are unique in that they lay flat so your photographs aren’t distorted by binding or creased by a hinge. Includes your choice of several different customized images from your session displayed amongst 20 sides. Printed on your choice of pearl paper or cover stock with a gloss or matte finish. Your family album will be treasured for a lifetime! Inquire for more details and pricing...

Mini Accordion Albums

Sometimes big impressions come in small packages. Designed to highlight your little one’s images in this convenient wallet album. Available in 2.5x3.5 and 3.3 sizes. Perfect to carry in your purse as a brag book, proudly hang on your fridge {yes, it has a concealed magnet for soft closure}, or simply display on a shelf for people to view when they come over! Includes your choice of several different customized images from your session. Also includes a frosted slip cover for protection. Printed on your choice of pearl or linen paper. Perfect for yourself or to give as a unique, treasured gift! Please inquire for more details and special gift giving pricing!

I think that's about it! Can you tell I'm excited about these new products! And, remember, it's not too late to add these new items to your orders {all orders due: Dec. 10th to ensure timely holiday delivery}.

Happy Day to you!

Kelly

Quick update {Monroe, Wa. Portrait Photographer}

2010-11-19T12:51:00.000-08:00

Just a quick update...

Currently, I am furiously working to finish up a few sessions, submit print orders, and create and introduce some {AWESOME} new products, all in a timely manner before the holidays arrive! I am aware that Christmas cards need to be ordered and Christmas presents bought, so for my current clients, I will have all sessions edited and completed by the beginning of December. All print orders will then need to be submitted to me NO LATER than Friday, Dec. 10th.

That being said, at this time, I will no longer be booking any sessions which need to be completed by Christmas. I do however, have openings mid-December and after the first of the year! Feel free to contact me, if interested=) And, {like I previously mentioned}, some exciting products coming out {stay tuned for an up-coming post of those new products}, which can serve as wonderful add-ons to your portrait package!

Think that's about it!

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, my friends!

Kelly

Cuteness Overload {Woodinville, WA family and children photographer}

2010-11-17T21:49:00.001-08:00

Oh my soul. MORE cute kids! I am seriously loving my job lately, with all of these cute little people. My heart was in full capacity overload while editing these images!

This was the second family {of my Chateau St. Michelle double session} I photographed this past Saturday and they were just as fun as the first!

Many know the P family through Issaquah/Sammamish Young Life, where they make UUUge impacts in high schooler's lives. What a fun, fun family!

I hope you enjoy your sneak peek! There are MANY many more to come!

This family will receive a FREE 5x7 with their print order, if they receive 10 comments on their blog post.

Little K was so cute toting around her baby doll the entire session.=))

These sisters LOVE each other!

Changes {Monroe, Wa. photographer}

2010-11-15T22:25:00.000-08:00

Ah... changes.

What a year it has been! And, I can't believe it's nearing it's end... I continue to learn so much, as a human being and as a photographer. I thank God daily for this creative outlet and for inspiration abound in the world!

Happy faces.

Young eyes.

Embraces.

Laughter.

Color.

Light.

These are all things that inspire me to create. To take a picture. To hold the moment.

What a beautiful world we live in!

Anyway, back to the topic at hand...

Change.

As I am gearing up for the new year, so is this little business of mine...

A new blog face lift to come {I will be converting from blogger to a much more savvy wordpress blog}.

A few new marketing pieces I have been working on.

New products and pricing.

And... {gasp for me}... a Facebook page.

**This last change was a bit of a tough one for me... Shall I explain? At times, I tend to rebel against mainstream... My thinking has always been that I didn't need a FB business page. Just one more thing to maintain. One more thing to bother people with. And, to be honest, the whole "asking people to "like" me" is just a little weird sounding to me. BUT... as I have been photographing more and more people, my own personal FB page has been acquiring more and more client's images on it. Apparently, also, you can only have a certain number of images in one album and I am almost maxed out. SO... I figured it was time to switch over to the dark side. If you DO "like" me, I promise not to bombard you with tons and tons of posts... really, just to showcase the images.

Plus, I figure if SPAM can have a FB page, then maybe I should move into the 21st century too.

Bottom line... new and exciting things are a'happen here! All the while, growing, learning, and continuing to keep the joy of photography close to my heart with rich, personal, organic and real images. But, for now... I am off to finish editing a few more sessions before the slam of the holidays arrive!

I am a blessed woman.

Thank you to my dear friends who continue to support me in this endeavor!

Fall Vineyards {Woodinville, WA Family and Child Photographer}

2010-11-15T20:30:00.001-08:00

Saturday morning, I photographed two AMAZING families at the Chateau St. Michelle winery in Woodinville. I was stoked when they emailed requesting this location, since I had always driven by this winery in the past, thinking this location would make a beautiful backdrop for photos! Man, was I right! Talk about a visual playground... I think I may have been in heaven! There were so many little spots around the winery and beyond that made awesome little spots to capture these beautiful families in. I will definitely be heading back in the future for more photo sessions!

I always email my clients with some styling information, upon booking their session {to prep them with ideas on what to wear} and when this family stepped out of the car, I thought for sure, they all went shopping for new clothes... Nope. Mom replied, "Oh, I just threw this together at the last minute." Are you kidding me?! They were SO cute! To the point, that while editing these images, I kept saying out loud... "These kids are so stinkin cute!"

Little man was ALL smiles and TOTALLY into the camera and Miss. T was all for posing for the camera!

I had such a fun time with both of these families and loved getting to know them a bit! We have lots in common, since they are also involved and serve in Young Life.

Hope you enjoy your sneak peek, L family {there are MANY many more to come}! And, M family, I am excited to post your sneak peek very very soon, as well!

As always, this family will receive a FREE 5x7 with their print order, if they get 10 comments under this blog post!

Sweet baby {Monroe, WA baby photographer}

2010-11-05T22:49:00.001-07:00

I met up with beautiful baby O on Wednesday to photograph her sweet, sweet baby wrinkles, whispy hair, and glowing eyes. Her Mom came with a ton of ideas... She brought her own baby tutu and a cute little prop (which I can't share just yet, because it is a Christmas surprise, but let me just say that the outcome is A-DORABLE!). We set up inside near a window to shoot some "tushy baby photos" and then ventured outside under the pretty day to grab a few of Mom with her little girl.

Hope you enjoy your sneak peek!

As always, this family will receive a free 5x7 with their print order, if they receive 10 comments under this blog post.

Fall {Leavenworth and Monroe, WA family photographer}

2010-10-24T22:09:00.001-07:00

Last Sunday, after church, we decided to take a spontaneous trip over to beautiful Leavenworth. It had been several years since we drove to this little Bavarian village {PRE-kids!} and we thought it was the PERFECT Fall day to make the trip! We packed up some snacks, threw the kids in the car, filled up the tank, and headed East.

The Fall color along the way was GORGEOUS!

I snapped a few pics of our fun afternoon together...

Octoberfest was in full swing and they had a bunch of bouncy houses set up in the center of town. Ben had lots of fun jumping around.

Jeff went to help Ben put his shoes on after he got done with the bouncy houses... I just love watching them together.

It was amazing how they still had TONS of BEAUTIFUL bright flowers in pots everywhere, yet, the leaves were changing all around us.

We headed across the street to a little park where there were tons of leaves on the grass. We all played a mean game of chase running from tree to tree and throwing leaves at each other.

G-mamma loving the leaves.

I think this picture is so funny. This captures completely how Ben is with Grace right now. He is constantly wanting to hold her {often times, giving her a loving neck hold}.

Back at home... A few more shots of just another afternoon playing in our cul-de-sac.

On this particular day, the wind was beginning to pick up, blowing a TON of leaves off of the trees. Ben was trying to catch all of them!

Pumpkins {Snohomish, WA child photographer}

2010-10-20T15:38:00.001-07:00

These past few mornings out here in Snohomish County have been nothing short of "Fallish". Chilled and foggy till around 11am and then that glorious sun pops out. Saturday morning proved to be just that and per this family's request, we headed out to Bob's pumpkin patch for little V's 18 month shoot. I remembered little V from when I photographed her at 3 months. Perfectly petite. Shiny, whispy hair. Precious smiles.

And, here she was toddling over now, those same things still evident, only this time, wearing the cutest little jacket and boots. Simply adorable. I think I have a thing for these cute little petite girls. Just makes my heart melt. Probably because my little girl is just as petite.

I love sessions like this one because I really just get to follow my subjects around, photographing exploration, keeping the kids in their element, and carefully placing them into little spots to do just that, while grabbing some pretty light. With the foggy pumpkin patch as this family's background, I think we did pretty well. V loved walking through the pumpkins, sliding down one, laughing at her silly Dad {seriously, he had us laughing}, sitting on a hay bale, swinging on a tire swing, and biting into an apple. I am convinced that a pumpkin patch is a kid's playground.

Thank you F family for inviting me to take your little girl's photos again.
She is adorable!

**For 10 comments on this blog posting, this family will receive a FREE 5x7 print order!

LOVED her little dimple!

Birthday girl {Monroe, WA proud mama photographer}

2010-10-08T20:43:00.001-07:00

We just tucked our little babies into bed and Jeff and I are now sitting down to take a deep breath from our long weeks. Everyone together now... Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh. Yes, that feels good. Jeff and I do that a lot. Just look at each other {even amidst the chaos of the week} and breathe. It is often comical.

Anyway, today we celebrated our baby girl's FIRST birthday! I cannot believe how fast this past year has gone! It is truly unbelievable. What a gift we got when she was born a year ago. I should have known that her personality today would echo the same characteristics as her birth story!

We conceived Grace quickly, to everyone's surprise, especially since it took us over a year along with a few nice hormone prescriptions to get pregnant with Ben. Our son has been the more cautious, reserved child {although, lately, he has been a monkey!} The fact that we became pregnant so fast, tells me that she was READY to come into this world! God wanted her here!

Throughout my pregnancy, the doctors were concerned with her growth. They found a couple of "red flags" early on and put us through weekly check-ups and ultrasounds to make sure everything was o.k., not to mention, they had me downing the protein smoothies daily! I don't know why, but through that time, I just had a peace that everything would be fine with our little Grace. I just kept telling the doctors, "We just have small babies." And, she WAS fine. Completely healthy!

On the morning of her birth, I rolled over in bed, to hear a nice little pop. My water had broken. We called our mid-wife and my parents to start making the 45 min trek up to the house. We entered into my labor completely casual, like we did with my labor with Ben, only with Ben, it took A LOT longer to get my body to the point of feeling like I was ready to make the drive to the hospital, so with Ben, we went for walks around the neighborhood, ran a couple of errands, ate dinner together, showered, and packed peacefully. We had desired a completely natural birthing experience and I felt confident that if I was relaxed, that this would be do-able.

I took a nice shower and Jeff started a big breakfast {comical now to think of him in the kitchen frying the bacon and flipping pancakes}. By the time I got out of the shower, I was in full blown labor, and my parents had yet to arrive. Still calm, I began to stress to Jeff that he might want to start thinking about getting in the shower too, so we could be ready to head to the hospital when my parents arrived. He continued to cook on. Fifteen minutes later and MY bags packed, I entered the kitchen again giving Jeff a look. Yep, this was the real deal, baby and we needed to abandon the idea of a nicely, cooked, relaxing, pre-birth breakfast and get this party going... to the hospital.

Parents arrived to watch Ben and we hopped in the car. I was doing my breathing and feelin good. Jeff, on the other hand, did not look as good, I remember thinking, as I watched him driving with his hands GRIPPING the steering wheel. We pulled up to the hospital and met the nurses and they got us checked into our room. Mid-wife arrived and we chatted wonderfully in between contractions. An hour later, things really got going and I went into the "zone". Through it all, Jeff was an amazing coach, rubbing my back and my mid-wife, Janice, spoke soothingly to me to keep me in that zone. With each contraction, I imagined the closer I was to bringing my little girl into this world and I remember that thought making me emotional. Just as I said, "I think I need to push.", she was already crowning, making, no rather... RUNNING her way out into the world!

And, that was that. Our little girl was finally here. Her newborn cry was exactly what my ears needed to hear! I held her in my arms, and whispered, "Open your eyes, pretty girl." Jeff teared up. And, we thanked God for our tiny miracle.

Like I said, thinking back upon even her birth story, makes me smile at how similar her personality is to how she entered the world. Determined. Quick. Strong. Present. Even at one year, she has a magnetic personality! Open mouth smiles, at a very young age. Giggles. Knowledge and Persistence of what she wants {lately, it is anything that her brother has}. Swiftness {no, she is not yet walking, but this girl can crawl from one room to another VERY quickly, sometimes, leaving me wondering where she went?}. Joyful.

All of these qualities make me so proud to be Grace's momma. I want nothing more than to teach my children how crazy God is about them and specifically, to teach my little girl that she is beautiful and strong!

I couldn't think of a better image to describe my beautiful Grace than the one below. Happy birthday, sweet girl!

Family {Carnation, WA child and family photographer}

2010-09-29T21:09:00.001-07:00

Family. Our dear friends for life. This is what these beautiful people mean to Jeff and I.

Carrie and I have known each other for YEARS and years. Seriously. She was LITERALLY the first person I met when my family moved from Kansas to Seattle in 1989. Her and the neighborhood posse strolled on up to our house, as we were unloading from the moving truck. A shy wave hello. Introductions. And, the rest, as they say, is history.

Kindred spirits, you ask? hmmm... I think we would describe our relationship more like that of being sisters. Some days, I think we have SO very little in common. Other times, we read each other like a book. And, at times, boy do we argue like sisters. These comical tiffs always seem to end with a pinch in the side and some snide remark to each other. Years from now, I am sure that we will be those bickering old ladies you see sitting on the park bench, arguing with each other about which toothpaste is the best for our dentures. And, as EVERYONE knows, Carrie will have an opinion about it=)))

All joking aside, Carrie has been my best friend through it all. We have grown up together. Counseled each other. Helped pluck each others eyebrows together. Cried. Laughed. Peed while crying, while snorting m-n-m's through our noses upside down. Gabbed about dating horror stories together. Stood by one another as we wed our husband's. Birthed babies together (well, not in the same room at the same time, BUT our kids ARE only 3 weeks apart). And, just walked through life together.

Through it all, our families remain tight. Our men share the same hobbies and our kids might just end up getting married down the road=)... then, I guess that would REALLY make us sisters, somehow, yes?=)

Anyway, I was honored to take their family photos on Saturday evening and vice-versa! Joel is a photographer as well, and I humbly say that he has been one of my photography mentors and teachers throughout my own journey. So, we got all snazzied up and found ourselves a sweet little park with freshly fallen brown and gold leaves and had ourselves a little party. A photo party. People walking by, must have thought we were CRAZY trying all sorts of antics to get our kids to look at the camera and flash a smile! WOW. Hard work.=) But, a lot of fun!

SO, without further ado, I give them their sneak peek... enough of my late night ramblings=)

6 months {The First Year Session}

2010-09-28T14:43:00.001-07:00

I met up with this family at the Arboretum Saturday morning for their sweet little boy's 6 month photo session! I feel like I have seen them quite a bit over the past several months (you may remember here and here). It has been such a pleasure watching Baby T grow! He is now able to sit up and give those little baby smiles I love so much and my favorite, he sucks his two fingers! SO adorable! I probably think this, because both of my kids are big finger suckers.=))

Anyway, we could not have asked for a more BEAUTIFUL FALL day! And, the Arboretum was just a beautiful place to hold a family session like this.

Hope you enjoy your sneak peek!

**For 10 comments on this blog posting, this family will receive a FREE 5x7 print order!

Family Love {Part I}

2010-09-16T14:59:00.001-07:00

I met up with two beautiful families on Saturday for a double family photo session. I graduated High School with both moms... dare, I say how long ago! It was a fun little reunion!

We hung out on the beach and then up on the grassy/woodsy area of the park, while the kids had fun running around and doing what kids do best: explore!

I think it is so special that these two moms have known each other for SUCH a long time and now, their daughters will grow up as best friends as well! These two little girls were so cute (all eyes and big smiles for the camera).

I am breaking up both families into two different posts... hope you all enjoy your sneak peeks!

**And, remember, each family has a chance to get a FREE 5x7 with their print order if they receive 10 comments {below post}!

Family Love {Part II}

2010-09-16T14:53:00.001-07:00

This is part II of the previous post... different family/same photo session!

Enjoy=)

**Each family has a chance to get a FREE 5x7 with their print order if they receive 10 comments {below post}!

Lovely...

2010-09-08T21:48:00.001-07:00

I met up with this beautiful Senior last Sunday evening, when the light was, shall I say, "sweeeeeeeeet!" I am quickly realizing that I have a major thing for light. It kind of makes me giddy when I am looking through my camera and I see that lucky subject in JUST the right spot, with that amazing light all around.

Shine in hair.
Softness of skin.
Glow all around.
LOVE.

And, Miss M got all of that in her Senior session, plus the fact, that I think she has the most A-MAZING eyes ever!

You combine perfect light with a lovely Senior and I have to stop myself from letting out a squeal, mid session!

And, this young lady was quite the trooper too! I am thankful that she trusted me when I asked her to walk out into the river (my bum got a little wet too, while squatting to get the first shot) or lay in a field. And, she braved her clothes changes in my subbie too (with blankets to hide, of course!).

I am quite proud of the results of all of our hard work! And, it is my hope, as it always is, when I work with young girls, that she feel absolutely lovely in these images!

**Show some blog love... This Senior gets a FREE 5x7 with her print order if she receives 10 comments {below post}!

Artist's fave.

Family of fourteen...

2010-09-02T13:41:00.001-07:00

Last Saturday, I drove South to photograph a family of fourteen (the largest family that I have photographed yet!). This family is the family of an old high school friend and they have always been so warm and welcoming! Saturday was not exception!

We had a fun time getting these shots and they even obliged me when I brought in a couple of little props to incorporate into some of their images. I had some inspiration while looking through my new Farm Chicks cookbook earlier in the week and while thinking about how to bring in some creativity into this shoot (funny how inspiration can come in most any form). I have a friend who makes the most beautiful vintage inspired aprons and I knew that this family was hosting a family gathering with all the food and fixins after their family portraits, so I thought a cute apron and the red pop of fresh strawberries might do the trick! Thank you L family for trusting me, even though you may have wondered what the crazy photographer lady was doing with a bowl full of strawberries!=)))

And, hope you enjoy your sneak peek too! There are many many more to come=)

**And, remember to show this family some blog love. They get a FREE 5x7 with their print order if they receive 10 comments!

Beach fun and a new SNEAK PEAK special...

2010-08-25T23:27:00.001-07:00

I first heard from this gorgeous family last October when they contacted me about a photo session. Unfortunately, I was getting ready to hunker down with a new baby, so I wasn't scheduling anything at that time. Fast forward one year later and J's mama contacted me again... after several emails, schedule changes, and different location ideas, we landed on Alki Beach! I don't think you can go wrong with a two year old, some sand toys, and the waves tickling your feet.

I had lots of fun chatting it up with the M family, as we have lots in common (We all have a Young Life background!). And, it was sure fun to run after J. Love love love his sweet personality, cute hairstyle, and his big lips are to die for!

Hope you enjoy your sneak peek!

OH... and one last thing... I have a stellar special to go along with each sneak peek I post from now on, so check it out:

**NEW** Receive 10 comments on your sneak peek and receive a FREE 5×7 print with your order, so show this family some blog love!

Boy of summer...

2010-08-18T22:09:00.001-07:00

Summer is my absolute FAVORITE time of the year! And as a family, we try and take advantage of the good weather as much as we possibly can... which means, I try and keep us outside as much as we can, even when we are hanging around home.

I was making dinner the other night when I passed by our backyard screen door (which for those of you who know us and have been to our house, know that the screen part is permanently broken, now by choice, due in part, by a very large yellow lab, who continuously runs right through it, every chance he can get... Jeff has fixed it FOUR times, and it still happens, so this summer, I decided to just "go with the flow" and leave it... which means Ben and the dog can come in and go out as they please now. Hey, don't judge. It's all about simplicity here at the Harper pad and I am learning to not sweat the small stuff)...

ALAS, I digress...

I was passing by our ghetto screen door, when I looked out and saw this.

inquisitive.
barefeet.
skinny little chicken legs.
shirtless white body.
dirty swim trunks.
and, that BIG floppy hat.

Grabbed my camera and lifted back our flapping in the breeze screen door, and snapped a couple of shots.

THIS is JUST how I have seen my sweet Ben this summer... adventurous, running like crazy, digging in the dirt, playing with worms, picking up sticks, swinging on the swings, free, floppy hat, BOY!

If you have known Ben, you know that he has always been the cautious type... skeptical to try something new, to jump in. He has tended to be the stand back and observe type of kid... But, lately, I think something primitive inside of him has clicked. Maybe, it has been our long summer days of playing outside or maybe he is just growing up, but he seems to be into EVERYTHING and holds little abandon! SO fun to watch and cheer him on as he jumps from one thing to another! We love it!

Anyway, God knows what he was has in his hands in this picture (probably another bug), but I just thought these two shots encapsulates my boy this summer.

New Package. New Special... {Snohomish and King County Senior Photographer}

2010-08-16T22:17:00.001-07:00

I have always been interested in photographing Seniors! A few weeks ago, I got my chance and I am thankful to begin my Senior portfolio. I feel the possibilities are endless when photographing these young men and women. Which is why I wanted to create a special package, just for that... capturing that momentous year as creatively as possible! I am excited to delve into this new genre of photography! I've got some GRAND ideas to help my Seniors "live it up" in their photos... and BEAUTIFUL locations to go along with it {and, I can't help myself but to be completely stoked about photographing beautiful Seniors in the end of the day light}... SO, book your Senior Session now! It is the perfect time as we near the end of summer and enter into the Fall! And, with a perfect special {see below}, you can't go wrong!

More Senior. {Part II}

2010-08-09T21:35:00.001-07:00

A few more of a beautiful Senior! We had so much fun in that magical field, we decided to head up the road to the river as well.

And, the next day, we went out again to the lake!

Can I just say that I LOVED loved LOVED this session! So fun to work with my favorite niece and I am excited to see her more during her Senior year!

AND, of course... now I've got the bug to photograph more Seniors... so, coming soon... A Senior Package {and a little deal to go with it!}. Be watchin for it!

Senior. {Part I}

2010-08-05T22:40:00.001-07:00

We ventured South last weekend to visit family in Longview and I got to photograph my lovely niece, Kylee. It is amazing to me that our little flower girl is now a beautiful young woman! We shot in a field at sunset and I think we got some awesome images!

We also went to the river that same evening and the next day, to the lake in town, so this post will serve as Part I.

I really enjoyed this Senior photo session and hope to do more in the future!

Field...

2010-07-27T15:17:00.001-07:00

Gosh! These are long overdue. I have had these on the ol computer for awhile! We had some field fun!

Little mover...

2010-07-26T22:35:00.001-07:00

My nephew is such a mover! Wow. He is Li.ter.all.ly. all over the place! He must burn a LOT of calories! My bro and sis in law came up last weekend for a quick photo shoot. We kept it low key and hung out in the cul-de-sac and out in the yard and just let the kids play! Lots of fun and I am sure am glad Ben will have a little buddy growing up!

I cannot get over these eyes!

Summer of owies...

2010-07-26T21:54:00.001-07:00

Restoration...

2010-07-26T16:21:00.001-07:00

SUCH a fun weekend our family had together! Jeff took a couple of vacation days and we took advantage of that time. Couldn't have asked for better weather!

Ben had soccer all week at Lake Tye, so we had fun watching him play on Thursday and Friday.

Saturday morning was spent playing in our backyard blow up pool. Ever since we set up the swing set, I have talked about making the slide into a water slide. So, we did! Even Jeff and I took a turn sliding into the blow up kiddie pool! I don't think we have laughed harder. Hopefully, our next door neighbors weren't spying on us, because I am sure we looked like a bunch of hicks!

Saturday afternoon, my mom came to babysit the kids, while Jeff and I ventured out for some much needed alone time together {to celebrate our 10th anniversary}! We hit up the Burke-Gillman bike trail and rode into Redmond. It was fun to walk around the Redmond Farmer's Market and of course, enjoy some Cold Stone together! After our ride, we made a quick pit stop at home, to shower and help feed the kids, and then took off to a sushi picnic dinner together in Bellevue and to watch a movie! {sidenote: if any of you has seen the movie, "Inception", we have to talk! Such a good flick, but I still have SO many questions!}.

Sunday was spent sleeping in a bit, Jeff made his famous breakfast for all of us, and we just hung out at home. Later in the afternoon, we both played softball with Thrive's softball team. Jeff took a pretty bad tumble while running after a fly ball. He jammed his thumb and the gravel he fell in, took a pretty good bunch of his skin off, so he is nursing those wounds today. Poor guy! That was about the only negatory thing that happened all weekend!

On Friday night, we decided to make a spontaneous trip up to Alki beach with the kids. Perfect evening for it. We stuck the kids in the stroller and walked the boardwalk. Got some ice cream and made our way down to the water. Ben had THE best time running in and out of the small waves! Such innocence!!! Jeff and I played with him too and it was just so fun to watch him enjoy his frollicking so much! I can't get over hearing his belly laugh, which we heard a lot of this whole weekend!

Jeff and I both have been hearing a lot about taking a Sabbath, both from our reading and from our church. We read something from one of our favorite authors this weekend about just that. John Eldredge quotes Dan Allender:

The Sabbath is an invitation to enter delight...it is not merely a pious day and it is not fundamentally a break, a day off, or a twenty-four hour vacation. The Sabbath is a feast day that remembers our leisure in Eden and anticipates our play in the new heavens and earth.
We love to tell others how much we work, how much we still have to get done, and how overwhelmed we are with the exhaustion of our labor...Boasting about work is a national pastime.
Delight doesn’t require a journey thousands of miles away to taste the presence of God, but it does require a separation from the mundane, an intentional choice to enter joy and follow God as he celebrates the glory of his creation.

Eldredge goes onto say, "You see, there is relief, and there is restoration, and they are not the same thing. Relief is falling on the couch at the end of the day with a bag of chips and zoning out in front of the TV. Restoration – Sabbath – is meant to be a time of rich delight, of ceasing labor so that we may enter into those things that bring us immense joy. And in so doing we find deep restoration for our souls."

Restoration. That was what we delighted in together as a family this weekend. Much needed for us.

{A few images from our wonderful time at Alki}

10 years...

2010-07-20T20:12:00.001-07:00

We two, you know, have everything before us, and we shall do very great things. I have perfect faith in us, and so perfect is my love for you that I am still, silent, to my very soul. I want nobody but you for my lover and my friend and to nobody but you shall I be faithful.

I am yours forever.

~British writer to future husband, 1917

{Inscribed on our wedding program in 2000 and framed in our house today}

Ten years ago today I was nervously walking down the aisle to a handsome man smiling just at me. I couldn't believe how lucky I was to nab Jeff Harper as mine back in the day! Thinking back, we were so young and naive, but ready to conquer our little piece of the world... together. Now, 10 years, a mortgage, a dog, and two kids later, we joke that that we aren't "spring chickens" anymore. Yet, somehow, I think we are still those two crazy kids {and probably will be 50 years from now}. I cannot think of any other person whom I laugh with more! For two people who can't sing, our house is sure filled with music, dance, and laughter... We joke if someone was a fly on the wall at our kitchen table, what they would hear!

At times, our marriage certainly hasn't been the easiest of waters to navigate through together, as I am sure every married couple can agree. But, man has it been real and raw. And, I wouldn't have it any other way. I thank Jesus for being right there with us.

Jeff, you are such a GREAT Dad to our children and bestest friend to me! Life is so much more delish with you around! Thank you for sharing it all with me. The sweet stuff and the muck. Till death do us part. Here's to another 50+ more together!

More of G-mama

2010-07-17T16:21:00.000-07:00

Some more I took of G-mama awhile back... Just sent these to print because I love them so much that they must graze our walls. Perfect for her 6 month photos to be hung right next to B's 6 month ones! Anyway, I thought I would post since they have been sitting here on my computer for some time... again, playing catch up! Lots more from these past couple of months to go through and edit!

Oh... and quick note... Yes, I am a bit cheesy, but that is MY little dress and knitted sweater and bonnet from when I was a baby. My mom gave these to me when we found out we were having a girl and I have them hung on a little antique hanger in G's nursery. The sweater and bonnet were knitted by my Great Grandmother (that would be G's GREAT GREAT grandmother!!!)

THREE years old...

2010-06-25T21:41:00.001-07:00

LOVE this girl!

Our bestest friend's daughter turned THREE a couple of weeks ago and of course, we went to the big par-tay! Elliott is only 3 weeks behind Ben so we all like to think that they have a special bond! Ben just adores El and follows her around everywhere... Elliott sometimes seems to have her own agenda.

Here is Miss Independent with her sweet little curls, pouty lips, and twirly skirt!

Happy birthday pretty princess the 2nd {insert inside joke}!

Catch up...

2010-06-23T23:53:00.001-07:00

These have been on my computer for about a month and I am finally getting around

to editing and posting them!

{ghetto bootie}

How can I not love this face!?

New package. New special... {Monroe, WA maternity, newborn, children's, family photographer}

2010-06-19T15:47:00.000-07:00

I have been a busy bee these last few weeks! Three weeks ago, it was all about updating and organizing all of my image files. I had a system, which I was not happy with, so I took the time (many many hours) to better my work flow and BACK UP in a more efficient way, even though I still have a few more tweaks to make, I feel much better!! Whew!!

I also took the time to update my website and blog a bit! This was also much needed. Again, I still have a few minor changes to make, but for the most part, I am one happy lady!

Along with all of these updates, I decided that it is about time to create another special portrait package. After all, there have been a few people who have inquired about something like this in recent days.

So, without further ado, here it is... a little package along with a special deal as well!

Natural {Monroe, Wa Maternity and Newborn Photographer}

2010-06-15T14:11:00.001-07:00

Baby bumps. Ahh! What a beautiful glorious season in a women's life. When I was pregnant, there were moments when I felt the "frump". Nothing seems to fit anymore. You get cramps in the most god awful places. You get more and more slow moving. And, on and on it can go...

But then I remember, what an AMAZING blessing it is to be with child. I grasp the bigger picture. I GET to carry this beautiful baby inside of me. I GET to have and protect this little one for nine months... in the grand scheme of things, that really isn't that long of a time. What other time will I FULLY get to protect my baby from the world, then now? I GET to feel this child's first little kicks and moves. And, I have the HONOR of laboring this baby into my arms.

And, it truly is just that. An honor. I always feel so very worshipful when I am pregnant. What an awe inspiring, miraculous time (when you really stop to think about the whole process of it all!).

And, I am always in awe of other pregnant women as well. They are beautiful, whether they think it or not. They are strong, whether they feel it or not. And, they are chosen to such a high calling... motherhood (and this goes for adoptive mommies as well!).

SO... I felt honored when my friend, Mitzi, asked me to document this beautiful time in her life. They have had quite the path to get to where they are now. Through all of the trials that they have gone through, they have been blessed with their second boy on the way!

I had QUITE the vision in my little head for this session! I have been wanting to do an evening shoot in a field for some time now! Jeff can attest to the fact, that lately, EVERYWHERE we drive, I am always scouting out possible field locations! I wanted something private, preferably with wild flowers and no eye sores in the backdrop (ie. power lines). You would think in such a place that we live, these types of fields would be everywhere! But, I was having troubs finding a suitable one with the above standards! However, last week, I DID find such the place. OH! The beauty of this natural scape. EXACTLY what I was looking for for this kind of session!

Next, it was onto styling... AND, yes, styling is important when prepping for a shoot! I have been reading up lots on this issue and chatted with Mitzi about the thought of not getting too "matchy matchy", but instead, COORDINATING with each other. I am all for bright colors, accessories, and a timeless sort of look! We had several conversations about "the look" and I think what she came up with looks FANTASTIC!!! I brought along some other article options to add to her look and I think it worked very well!

And, lastly... in this vision of mine... I had wanted "the light"! You know, that "end of day, shine on your hair, twinkle in your eyes, kind of light."... WELL... that didn't quite pan out. In our ever changing state that we live in, our Washington weather ended up being cloudy on the evening that we went out.

SO... that just makes me want to go back... back to this beautiful field to enjoy that end of day kind of light and grab some photos! Anyone game for that?=)

With or without that "light", I still feel like we accomplished what we set out to get... A natural mom. I truly am proud of these images and I think Mitzi and her family couldn't have shined more!

**One last little note... Because I enjoyed SO so much photographing this little baby bump and I ALSO love seeing those tiny little newborns, I figure it might be about time to come out with another little package and maybe a special little deal to go along with it... I have had several inquiries about a maternity/newborn package... Stay tuned for that announcement later.

For now... I hope you enjoy this sneak peek!

Baby Theo...

2010-05-29T23:13:00.000-07:00

Drove out to Seattle this morning to photograph an old friend's new little bebe! Becca and I went to high school together (um... seems like WAY too long ago!) and I always considered her such a genuine, real lady! So neat to see her as a momma now. Guess we are all grown up=) It was also great to meet her husband, Cliff, who is also a photographer. They have a collection of some AMAZING photo canvas' up in their home, that Cliff took.

At just three months old, Theo was bright eyed and very interested in the clicking sounds of my camera. He is the personification of CUTENESS!

It has been raining non stop here for the past several days, so the low light coming through the windows posed a bit of a challenge, and the rain kept us from venturing outside to grab some more family shots. But, I think we did well considering the circumstances. And, I will be seeing this beautiful family again throughout Theo's first year to capture more of his personality and cute face!

And, if you are interested, the FIRST YEAR package is an AWESOME portrait package to document the special FIRST year of your new child's life.

Little yawn.

Personal favorite.

Little one...

2010-05-18T20:30:00.000-07:00

I met up with a beautiful family on Saturday morning to photograph their new little daughter, Abby. Typically newborns are best photographed within the first 10 days of life (they are much more sleepier and can be posed easier) but Abby had a brief stay in light therapy for jaundice, so we got a bit of a late start in scheduling their session. All but 16 days old, I prepped and packed up all of my gear, and headed south to Duvall Saturday morn, hoping and praying for a SLEEPING baby!

And, that is what I got! As soon as I walked in, Abby was ready to go! FAST asleep! I got right to work and she slept the whole time!!! I am happy with the results!

I am finding I am loving photographing newborns! What a beautiful time to document. They grow so fast and capturing all of that newness is such a reward for me!

Congratulations Walker family! Enjoy your sneak peek...

Little ham...

2010-05-14T21:51:00.000-07:00

Beautiful day today!

Ben has been away at his Nana and Papa's house for the past couple of days, so that Jeff could assemble a backyard swing set as a surprise for his 3rd birthday, coming up! Grace and I kept him company while he drilled away. She enjoyed sitting up (her new thing) in the grass and smiling in the sun!

So funny... as soon as I broke out my camera, it was as if she knew exactly what to do... On cue, she gave us the funniest smiles!

My favorite! What is the deal with her tongue?! It seems to be out in almost every picture. I told Jeff this morning, that she gets so excited, it is almost as if her grin is going to fly off of her face! Crazy girl!

Under construction...

2010-05-13T21:47:00.000-07:00

Blog is under a bit of construction... stay tuned!

A house full of thumb suckers...

2010-05-13T20:55:00.000-07:00

So funny that just a couple of weeks ago, i caught this. And, now this week, I was able to grab these! The most random thing is that both kids suck the same fingers (thumb and pointer), just on opposite hands. Must be in the genes!

More Random for the week...

2010-05-13T20:26:00.000-07:00

Just some more random shots of just a few of the simple things around here that made me smile this past week.

These have been a hit here lately... Homemade granola bars. Found here.

Washing dishes the other afternoon with the kitchen window open, gentle breeze coming through, and my most recent favorite smell (well, besides my freshly bathed kids). Mrs. Meyers Lemon Verbena dish soap. Hmmm... don't I make doing the dishes sound simply glamorous! Yah right!

Little piggies sticking out.

Mother's Day flowers from my boys.

Finishing up a few projects this week! Finally! This one was long overdue. MUCH better than the yellow sticky note I had taped to the doorbell for the past 3 years.

And, this. Just one of my two raised veggie beds (the light wasn't right to take a picture of the other). Against the fence... giving us much more room to play in the backyard. Thank you hubby for working to move our old, fatty, square shaped, sit smack dab in the middle of the yard, what were the previous owners thinking veggie bed, to this! AHH... much better! Ready to grow us some good stuff this summer!

Cars, Puddle jumping, and gazing out...

2010-05-03T14:12:00.000-07:00

More random for this week...

This is quite often what I see lying around EVERYWHERE in our house. Sorted out and lined up cars. Hmm... wonder where he got this great quality from?

Rainstorm today.

Bed head, blankie, and glow worm in hand this morning.

Rarity...

2010-04-23T20:47:00.000-07:00

It is rare that I get to watch Miss G sleeping nowadays.

Here's the story: We are gradually replacing all of the doors and base trim in our house {started the project last summer and still have a ways to go. All in good time, i tell myself. All in good time.} My amazingly handy husband is the work force behind this project and I couldn't be more thankful for him! He has put hours and hours into it!

However, some of the doors he replaced last summer have a, hmm... how should we say... a "hold" to them. Meaning, when you open the door, you have to really pull hard. And, the frustrating thing about it, is that he has tried and tried to fix the problem, but apparently, when the temperature changes in the house, the wood casing changes within the door frame to make it stick more or less. Like I said, when it sticks more, you have to pull open the door really hard and it usually makes a really loud noise {aka. this difficult pull and really loud noise quite often wakes a sleeping baby, hence the reason I don't often just get to gaze upon my sleeping beauty}. When she sleeps, I let her sleep and just keep the monitor on.

The story continues...

Nap time was over the other day, so I went in to get her. I opened the door {with the very LOUD pull} and expected her to be awake or be awakened by the noise.

FAST ASLEEP still... I watched her for a sec to make sure she was still breathing and even tried to quietly wake her up. Nothin. That girl was a snoozin!

SO... what does a mama do with a rare moment such as this? That's right... I grabbed my camera and snapped away! She slept the ENTIRE time! Craziness! Even with each click of my camera, she slept. Must have been one tired little girl!

Must have been dreamin about something mighty nice. Caught her sleepy little smile.

Beginning to awaken.

Hi mom. Why are you standing above my crib holding that thing?

Random...

2010-04-23T15:22:00.000-07:00

My week in pictures.

**Disclaimer: I don't do this often. Post random pics on my blog, that is. But, I am feeling inspired to do so today. Perhaps it has been the nice weather that put an extra spring into my step this past week. Or it might be that I was simply just surrounded by lovely this week. Either way... it was a good week and I am feeling blessed. And, I thought I would share {the love} and just SOME of the things that made me smile this week. Happy Friday!

mmm... My weakness. The Starbucks drive-thru. Thank you to my dear friend for blessing me with a gift card. {Is it bad that Ben can tell you exactly which drink I order, down to the non-fat, no whip part?}

Broke out the Chacos this week. These have got to be my FAVORITE pair of shoes. Ever. Seriously. Love them. You can dress them up. You can dress them down. And, you know I am a style icon. {do my feet look like old man feet?}

New fabric I ordered from here. Just walking by this stash in my old basket makes me smile. {Can you tell i may have a thing for polka dots?}

Mason jar + pretty flowers = Home

{yes, treated myself to these pretties from Trader Joes and i simply think i should do that for myself more often.}

Our evening ritual {when it is not raining}... waiting outside for Daddy to drive up. This particular evening, I treated Ben to a chocolate Popsicle. Oh the joy. And, i loved the mess on his face.

Pound it. It's their thing.

This shiny, wet nose makes me happy. Usually. Except this morning when I was in the shower and Grace was down for her nap and he began barking loudly and continuously at nothing at the window and I couldn't do anything to stop him and he woke up Grace. Then he didn't make me happy. At all.

And lastly. This. This actually made me smile this week. We began potty training part 2 this week. And, Ben did quite well. You may remember this photo back in the Fall. Yeah. Didn't go so well then. Decided to give it up for a few months. And, then Monday morning I woke up and realized he is going to be three in a month and I thought, "hmm... i am feeling the energy this week. Let's revisit this." And so we did. Less of a "boot camp/cold turkey" type feel {like we had in the Fall} and more of a "Hey, Ben... wanna try and go to the potty?" ...as, i watch his tail run past me to the bathroom!

Not getting too confidant yet. We are still early on in the game. But, I think we are off to a good start!

Thought I would get a different angle shot of him this time around. His face is like, "Um. Mom, I'm doin some business here."

Like I said, loveliness.

It seemed I had my camera out quite a bit this past week... for no other reason, than for myself. Often, I look around at something, and I think, "hey, self. that would make a great pic." But, alas, my camera is not there. Instead, I've got my two kids in tow and I often can't just stop and grab that "cool" shot that I pictured in my head. This week, I guess my camera WAS there.

Lately, I have been feeling drawn into images that show a glimpse into a person's daily life. That have a bit of a story behind the image. Might just try to capture more of our "daily life" around here to post. Don't want to make it another chore for me. Don't want to stress over it if it is not the "perfect" picture. And, don't want to commit to one of those 365 days a year things. But, just keepin my eyes open for things that make me smile...

Random.

flowers, a lollipop, and a pretty little girl...

2010-04-13T18:15:00.001-07:00

Saturday morning I headed south to the little town of Carnation (Jeff and I refer to Carnation as our "old trompin ground"). This gem of a town holds a special place in our hearts, as we spent several years working there (me at the Elementary school and Jeff as a youth pastor at one of their local churches). It was at that church that we met and became friends with the Stedmans! Janice and Randy are two of the most REAL people you will ever meet and I so appreciate that about them. They are so authentic and you always feel like you can be yourself around them! Such a beautiful quality to bestow!

Janice contacted me a while back to ask if I could take her sweet little granddaughter's portraits... and the rest of her beautiful family! Such a proud Grandma she is and the whole family is in love with little Miss. Keira (just turned TWO)!

This is quite a BIG post! And, I have many more as well! Enjoy!

I also shot some quick pics of Janice's daughter, Samantha, and her beau, Jason.

A day in the life of a domestic goddess...

2010-04-02T13:31:00.000-07:00

Friday morning.

Wake up late.

To an empty coffee pot.

Mama has a cold.

Feed G.

Kiss husband as he leaves for work.

Throw cinnamon rolls in the oven.

Open mouth smiles from G.

Enter the "sleeping bear's" room (as we like to refer to him when he wakes up from any sort of sleep period).

Sheets drenched.

Stupid pull-up.

Off with the pj's.

Into the bath.

Strip the sheets.

Into the washing machine.

Oh. wait. Can't start that yet... the hot water heater can't handle it. I will have a cold shower.

Smoke alarms go off.

Throw open windows.

Dog is TERRIFIED.

Run to garage and grab the broom.

Begin fanning vigorously near alarms.

Glance at G to see wide eyes.

Finally.

Quiet.

Back to the bathroom to scrub B.

Turn off oven to burning cinnamon rolls.

Oh well. Can't win em all.

Dress kids.

"Where are we going today, Mom?"

"To church. It's MOPS Friday."

"I don't want to, Mom. I'm scared. Will you pray for me?"

"Sure, my sweet."

"Dear God, help Ben to be brave in his classroom and have LOTS of fun. Amen."

Breakfast.

Shower time for mama.

Run by the mirror and realize my eyebrows are long overdue for a plucking. And, hair needs a haircut.

Mental note to self: Call Lisa!

This weekend. Fo shizzle.

Pack up kids.

Change G's onesie from the spit up.

Out the door.

Glance over to see a good amount of dust on a bookshelf.

Mental note to self: I really NEED to dust!

Turn on washing machine.

Driving.

hmmm... maybe speeding a little.

Late.

"Mom, what's that!?"

"Looks like a firetruck with it's ladder up at the elementary school."

B's favorite.

Turn the car around.

Do a drive by.

Glance in the back to see the biggest eyes on an almost 3 year old!

To the church.

Park the car.

Pouring rain.

Raincoats on.

Stroller out.

Cinnamon rolls in tow.

Hike it to the front door.

Drenched jeans.

"I'm going to be brave, Mommy."

"I know you are. I love you. Have fun!"

Drop off kids.

MOPS.

Good food (minus my burnt cinnamon rolls).

Good friends.

Good talk.

Pick up kids.

"Mom, look what I got!"

"Wow. An Easter treat bag."

Watch B as he walks next to me CLENCHING his lollipop!

To the car.

Still raining.

"Mom, can I have my lollipop?"

"After lunch."

"I'm going to eat my lollipop AFTER lunch, right!"

"That's right!"

Bank drive-thru.

Starbucks drive-thru.

McDonald's drive-thru.

Home.

Unload.

Throw sheets into dryer.

Crying hungry baby.

Wash hands.

"Mom, where is my lollipop???"

Search the car everywhere.

"hmmm... not sure. We can get another one at the store later."

Tears.

Cheeseburgers. French Fries. Ketchup for lunch.

Chase hovering.

Feed the hungry baby while B eats.

Spilt milk.

Clean up.

"I want more french fries."

"Try again, Ben. How do we ask?"

"I want more french fries... please."

"Eat your cheeseburger first."

More spilt milk.

Mama beginning to loose patience.

Clean it up.

Again.

Lunch is done.

Grab clean sheets.

Make bed.

Story.

"Mom, can you sing Sunshine?"

"You are my sunshine. My only sunshine. You make me happy. When skies are gray. You'll never know dear. How much I love Ben. Please don't take my sunshine away."

Door shut.

Wrap G up.

In her crib.

Door shut.

... Naptime.

Quiet.

... Ahhh.

Beauty...

2010-04-01T19:19:00.001-07:00

On a roll with editing today, so I thought I would post some pics that I took of our little beauty the other afternoon. We were having a perfectly delightful (who says delightful anymore?) hour playing on her little mat by the window, while her big brother napped. Grace is such a character and it has been so fun to see ways in which she is claiming her own personality... I already see qualities in her, even at a young five months: determination. humor. joy. strength. curiousity. I am praying that these qualities and many more continue to grow in her. I am already envisioning her as a little girl. MY little girl.

As excited as I am to see her grow up, I am beginning to turn into one of those moms that say, "they just grow up so fast."

I never really understood that comment many women would say to me when I was pregnant, even after Ben grew into a toddler and now into a little boy... It is now, that I am just starting to FEEL it... that tug on my heart that says, "I know I have to be strong and begin to let them go, little by little, so that they can become independent and strong little people in this great big world, but for heaven's sake, can I just put them in a little jar and keep them this way for a little while longer."

I have been finding that I am cherishing little moments with both of them a lot lately. Because I am being reminded, that this time... this time that I have with them... is so short. They WILL grow up. They will eventually grow up and away and I SO desire to be the kind of Mom that handles it all with grace, but WOW... does my heart get tugged every now and then! SO... I have begun to put the "sleep nazi" in my back pocket (as much as i LOVE a full night's rest), and just go in and feed my Grace when she needs me. And, enjoy that time. That 1am feeding time that we so willfully worked to wean out of Ben when he was little. She will sleep through the night eventually, right!

Here are a couple of pics of my sweet sweet 5 month old!

Wedding...

2010-04-01T15:49:00.000-07:00

Saturday was a perfect day for a wedding! Blue overcast skies, nice temps, and diffused lighting... the perfect storm for a natural light photographer! And, a dream day for a beautiful bride and groom!

I have to admit I was a tad nervous for this shoot, as this was the first wedding I have ever photographed... but, it went very smoothly and we were all pleased to be able to be outside to do most of the portraits.

Congratulations Kim and Rich! Many blessings to you in the new adventure ahead of you!

Super cool momma...

2010-03-20T15:58:00.000-07:00

... This is how I would describe my friend, Shaina! She has a "no problem, don't sweat the small stuff" kind of an attitude that I am inspired by! Her husband, Ben, also has that same relaxed attitude!

They are due with their third child in a month and we are so excited for them! I know they will have no problem with the ins and outs of raising another child... they already have serious amounts of success with their first two. LOVE these kids!

All in all... a beautifully amazing family!

I photographed Shaina and her beautifully amazing family down by the river (I couldn't resist a Chris Farley quote for this one) this morning! She sure makes pregnancy look GOOD, doesn't she!

It is perfectly fitting that today is the FIRST day of Spring (besides the fact that we are having 70 degree weather here in the Pacific Northwest)... because today's shoot was the first of two maternity shoots I have this weekend. Those little chicklings are ready to make their debut! Stay tuned for tomorrow's post!

Mr. Man...

2010-03-17T14:46:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, I drove out to Seattle to meet some friends at the University of Washington. I cannot believe that I have never been on campus when the beautiful cherry blossoms have been in bloom! It was a treat!

I have heard that it gets quite busy there... We did see some other photographers, and at one point, a swarm of folks walked by, but for the most part, the grounds were fairly empty, considering. And the light! The glorious light! We had some amazing diffused light shining over the tops of the old buildings as well, which made my job that much easier!

You may remember little Michael, at 6 months... well, he has grown a ton and he was ALL over the place! It was quite the adventure keeping up with him. He enjoyed his snacks, being chased, and the good ol tune of "Old McDonald"!

I am in love with these images... Michael's wispy hair, his proud parent's smiles, and of course, the background speaks for itself! I don't think Lisa could have picked a better place!

It is on my to do list to visit the cherry blossoms in the future! They bloom mid-March/early April every year, so if you haven't had a chance to see these beauties, it is a Seattle must! And, if you want a photographer to come along to take your portraits, I am your woman!

My personal favorite...

Engagement session...

2010-03-09T14:57:00.000-08:00

This past weekend was funny. Saturday was GORGEOUS! Sun, blue skies, Spring like weather. Sunday... not so much. The cold air set in and the skies became overcast and it was on Sunday that I went out with a long time friend of mine and her fiance to do their engagement photos at the beach! I have to hand it to Kim, she picked a very scenic spot for their session and she braved the cold by zipping off her fleece and smiling that beautiful smile, that I have come to know since Junior High. And, Rich... well, he was a trooper too! He threw out his back the previous day, so sitting down and standing up in different poses was not the easiest for him. I thank both of them for being so flexible (even when I had to cancel our previous session the weekend prior because I had a nasty stomach bug)! Despite the cold weather, I think we got some pretty awesome shots!

So excited for you both! Thank you for including me in your big day... coming up real soon! Enjoy your sneak peak!

Mr. big eyes...

2010-03-02T19:52:00.001-08:00

I had the privilege of photographing some friends of ours on Sunday. Gabe and Rachel have the sweetest family and I seriously think our son has a thing for their daughter, Halle (they are around the same age). A-DORABLE! They welcomed their 2nd child, Ryan, a couple of weeks ago and he was ALL eyes for the camera!!! Rachel tried for awhile to get him to sleep, but he had different plans. By the way, take note of that amazing FULL set up hair he has!

We tried some different little props I have, one of them being a little cocoon my friend, Marianne knitted for me. Yes, I have good friends!

Hope you enjoy your sneak peak of your precious baby boy!

Excited about this...

2010-02-08T23:47:00.000-08:00

*Terms and Conditions:
20% off is for The First Year Portrait Package only
This offer is valid if booked on or before March 1st, 2010
The first of three photographic sessions must be completed before December 31st, 2010

Click here for more details=)

New Biz cards...

2010-02-01T17:20:00.000-08:00

I am no Photoshop pro, so when it came to wanting to design some actual nice lookin business cards, I knew I had to get some help! Enter Kim... SO very helpful, she designed exactly what I was wanting in my new look! Off to get them printed! And, to begin learning photoshop soon too!

Front.

Back.

Keep an eye out for some pretty cool Spring Specials coming soon!

Growing, growing, and smiling...

2010-02-01T15:53:00.000-08:00

Wanted to throw a couple of quick images up of my sweet sweet Grace. She has been growing leaps and bounds and it amazes me at HOW much babies grow within the first year!

Her Daddy was making her giggle up a storm when I took these!

New kid on the block...

2010-01-16T21:51:00.000-08:00

There's a new chic on the block... Enter Magnolia Hope. Her name in itself is super cool, but the fact that she is the daughter to the hip, Tyson and Carrie says it all! Carrie and I frequent the same playgroup and church and it has been fun getting to know her over the past two years. We are grateful to know this amazing family!

Little Magnolia was all eyes this morning. BEAUTIFUL silvery blue eyes! And, those eyes were OPEN the entire time of our session! We tried to get her to sleep, but she had other plans=)

I got to use my new background stand and background paper, which will help a lot in the future, when doing indoor sessions. And, I got to try out a cutie little newborn headband I found as well!

Hope you enjoy your sneak peak!!!

In addition to welcoming their second daughter, Tyson and Carrie are also getting ready to launch Young Life club in their home in the next week. Young Life is a ministry that Jeff and I have served in for many years, a ministry that is very near and dear to our hearts. Excited to see what God does in and through them and in our local high schooler's lives!

Window light...

2009-12-13T16:45:00.001-08:00

It is getting harder and harder to grab a picture of Mr. Ben these days! He is constantly on the move! And, for those that know my Ben, know that it is rare to capture his smile on camera too! He has a "serious" expression, one that he seems to reserve just for me, as soon as I point the camera his way!

One afternoon last week, I was in the kitchen putting lunch together for us, and I walked into the family room to find him sitting with his blankie (his most PRIZED possesion) staring outside of our backyard sliding glass door. PRIME photo opportunity for a natural light photographer! I grabbed my camera to see if he would let me take a few pics! He obliged a bit and I even got the slightest little smirk out of him too! Can you tell he was ready for his nap?=)

Blankie=instant thumb in mouth

Doggie... Ben wanted me to take a picture of his doggie too!

Eyes wide open and BIG smiles...

2009-12-13T16:28:00.001-08:00

I really don't know at what point Grace went from being a tiny newborn to a little baby, but she is growing so fast already! She is full of personality and I am loving her bright eyes and smiles when she looks at us!

Little hands...

Potty time...

2009-12-13T16:26:00.001-08:00

This is what I have been seeing a lot these days! We have begun potty training 101=)

Big Wheel fun...

2009-12-13T16:06:00.000-08:00

Ben is always requesting to ride his "motorcycle" (aka. big wheel). It was so beautiful out last week (sunny BUT cold!) that we had to spend some time outdoors. We have a little tradition in greeting Jeff when he gets to come home for lunch, in that, Ben anxiously awaits for Daddy to drive up in the "vroom vroom car" (another one of Ben's words which translates into Jeff's 1990 Honda Accord with the hole in the muffler, which makes the vroom vroom sound). The Honda has seen its better days and we think it is on it's last leg, but in Ben's eyes, he thinks it is ONE cool RACE CAR and Dad is one cool dude! Anyway, i took a few pictures out in the sun!

Sun in the eyes!

Signs of winter...

Ben excited to see Dad drive up!

A few more...

2009-10-28T15:18:00.000-07:00

I can't resist taking pictures of our little newbie! I love this time when she is all curled up and sleepy and just TINY! I want to capture it all!

Baby in a bowl...

2009-10-27T14:50:00.000-07:00

Grace is now two and a half weeks old and she is already growing a ton! She is taking in her milk feasts every couple of hours and it is helping her "chunk" up a bit! We are having a beautiful time getting to know each other more and more!

I am officially "on my own" with two kids this week and it is going pretty well! We have ventured out the past couple of mornings, going to our playgroup's Halloween party (Ben loves his fireman costume) and this morning, we went to Tuesday morning Bible Study at the church. I am learning how to juggle everything (meal times and transitions to getting us out of the house seem to be the biggest challenge) and taking DEEP breaths when i need to!

The pics below were taken by my SUPER FUN friend, Michelle (www.michellenewellphotography.com) at her home studio about a week ago. Michelle and I had a blast collaborating together to get some of these shots! I brought along this little vintage pot (not thinking we could fit a baby in it), but we posed Miss. Grace just right and wallah... we had a BOWL BABY, all wrapped up in a little brown swaddle!

I am also so appreciative that Michelle was able to take some shots of me with my new little girl! Those pictures are priceless to me!

I have a few more pics to edit and will get to those soon... For now, my little man just woke up from a VERY short nap today! Gotta run!

In Daddy's arms...

2009-10-18T13:56:00.000-07:00

A few more to post...

It melts my heart to hear Jeff say now, "There's my girls" when he walks in a room and I am holding Gracie.

Our sweet sweet Beauty...

2009-10-17T13:58:00.001-07:00

We welcomed Gracelynn Ella Harper last Thursday, Oct. 8th at 12:06pm into the world. I had a beautiful labor and delivery and was grateful that I was able to do it all naturally! It was a tough haul but SO worth it for me in the end when I got to hold my little Grace. She came in weighing 6 lbs. 4 oz. and 19 1/4 in. in length.

We have had a great week with her, although big brother Ben has been sick. It has been so nice to have Jeff off to help and my mom will be coming up tomorrow to continue to help me out, as Jeff heads back to work then. Grace has been such a mellow baby (so far!), hardly crying with few demands!

Of course, I have a ton of "newbie" ideas I wanted to try out with her in front of my camera, so we have been having fun this week putting her into little poses and getting her all naked (i believe the best way to shoot a newborn is in the buff)!

This morning, I ventured over to my dear friend, Michelle's in home photography studio, here in town and we had even more fun! Stay tuned for those pics!

Here is our sweet baby girl...

Little toes

Smiles

Yawn

Down by the river...

2009-08-25T16:03:00.001-07:00

An old friend and one of four college roommates I had (back in the day!) called me a couple of weeks ago to ask if I could photograph her son and their family! Even though I am "winding down" with getting pretty big in this last part of my pregnancy and not wanting to take on a whole lot more, I had to say YES, because I know that her son has a pair of the MOST beautiful BIG BLUE eyes I have ever seen!!! How could I NOT want to photograph that!

They drove up to meet me and we all drove down to the river last night. Shane definitely had a mind of his own... He was ALL about checking out the rocks and throwing them into the water, so grabbing a quick FAMILY shot was a bit of a challenge, but he for sure modeled it up for the camera on his own! He has quite the personality!

After our river shoot, I had the idea of driving to a nearby field to grab some shots with the beautiful evening sunlight, but unfortunately, we weren't quick enough, because just as we were arriving to the field, the sun was tucking itself behind the hills and trees... just not the "right" light I was looking for! We will try for next time!

Shane hammin it up on his own... practicing his supermodel sexy pout=))

Since we didn't make it in time to grab shots in the field, we headed to a new location I have been eyeing for awhile... an old school right on Main St. that has the coolest large white doors and pillars in front...

A little break...

2009-08-17T16:01:00.000-07:00

What a year it has been for me! A new found passion for photography and most anything creative has pinched me hard this year! I have gotten the chance to photograph MANY of my friends and family (thank you ALL for letting me "practice" on you)! I have learned SO so much about the technical side of photography, while inventing my own style and getting comfortable with what I believe I can and cannot do in natural light.=)) I have had many ups and downs, mainly in my OWN confidence in myself and in my art... and to be honest, I still struggle with that. It has been hard at times, to "put myself out there" and show people my art. And, I am still learning... learning LOTS and lots!

August has been a crazy busy month for us, in that we are finishing up some big projects here on the home front, as well as, I am wrapping up some editing of several WONDERFUL photography sessions I did this past month (with one more photo session to shoot)! For those of you who I had the privilege of photographing recently, remember that all print and enlargement orders are due into me by MID-September, so that I can get all of your pictures to you by the time this baby pops out (they say she will make her appearance in early October)!

And, that is where the break needs to come in for me... obviously, I will have my hands full with caring for a new little one this Fall and Winter, so stay tuned for some fun postings of our little girl, during that time!

And, come SPRING 2010, I will begin accepting new clients again, so feel free to contact me now, if you would like to be put on the calender for some beautiful outdoor portraits! Funny how I seem to be continually drawn to outdoor photography (probably because I am limited in shooting inside anyway, since I work solely with natural light), but it is in my opinion that these outdoor photos make for the best visually stimulating pieces of art to look at! Think tulips, waterfront locations, golden hour lighting (late in the day before sunset), trees, fields, etc. etc..

And, one of the best things I should mention... check out my website for some new lower prices! Not a bad deal, I would say.

If you are reading this, thank you for following along in my photography journey and for believing in me! Even though I have found, that it is MY OWN self confidence in my work that speaks the loudest, your encouraging words have sure helped a lot this past year! I feel I have picked up a great "hobby"... hopefully, you can tell, I am pretty laid back about the whole business side of it. And, if I can create smiles from others in my "hobby" and feel comfortable doing it, then I am a pretty happy lady!

Beautiful boy...

2009-08-10T16:59:00.001-07:00

I had the privilege of photographing my dear friend Lisa and family on Sunday morning in Snoqualmie. Lisa is an old teacher friend of mine back when I taught at Carnation Elementary, before I had my own baby! She and her husband, Jim, just welcomed their first child earlier this year, so when she called me back in the Spring to book, I was really excited! What a beautiful family!!! Michael is 6 months old and I loved capturing his smiles and cute expressions! Even after getting over a cold earlier this week... he was a trooper! I appreciated Lisa's creativity when she emailed me a few days ago to confirm what they would be wearing and her ideas of where to shoot (that is the WONDERFUL organized teacher in her). She chose a perfect backdrop... the golf course green and a pretty little field nearby. We even got their dog in on some of the action and I love that, since dogs are definitely a part of the family! Anyway, hope you enjoy your sneak peak... there are many more!

What is it about those LASHES??? Oh my goodness!

Bright eyes...

2009-08-09T22:13:00.001-07:00

This little one had the BIGGEST eyes and such a beautiful smile, even at just 4 months old! We held the session in their beautiful Monroe home and on their front and back porch. We tried out a few different props I have (although, i am wishing I could have seen baby V in the CUTEST little tutu and wings her Mom had too) and had fun! Thanks so much for having me out to your gorgeous home and I hope you enjoy your sneak peak!

Little man...

2009-08-09T21:32:00.000-07:00

I had a very busy weekend! THREE photo shoots, with the first one being on Friday... I got to photograph my new nephew and his beautiful family. Linc is almost 9 months and I forget how FUN this age is! He is just starting to crawl and I got some great shots! I posted several here, probably because I am a little bias, and there are tons more waiting to be edited! SO proud of you guys, Kyle and Laura, and hope you enjoy your sneak peak! OH... and Happy 31st Birthday TODAY, Kyle!!!

**Sidenote: Check out Kyle's church plant in the Issaquah Highlands http://www.iconchurch.com/

I am sure I was QUITE the sight getting low to get some of these shots... Typically, I lay flat on my belly to capture the picture I want, but since I am carrying an almost 8 month pregnant belly, I had to maneuver in some pretty funky ways!

Perspective...

2009-07-14T15:10:00.000-07:00

My lovely summertime crocs, when viewed from my perspective at 7 mo. pregnant=))

Lavender fields...

2009-07-14T14:57:00.000-07:00

I have been dying to get up to Marysville to take in a beautiful lavender field I had read about online (www.lavenderhillsfarm.com). So, Saturday, Ben and I ventured up... Ben was being a bit "clingy" this particular morning, and since I was by myself, I did my best to snap a few photos of the brightly colored purple flowers. I don't know what it is about that sweet smell! I loved remembering the scent for the rest of the day!

Waterfront fun...

2009-07-14T14:46:00.001-07:00

Jeff, Ben, and I got to meet up with some very close out of town friends Friday for a photo shoot on the Kirkland waterfront and lunch afterwards! It was so fun seeing the T family and watching Miss. A play on the rocks and grass! This little three year old has the most adorable face and facial expressions... priceless.

Early Bird...

2009-06-28T07:29:00.000-07:00

I arose EARLY early this morning to get some editing done from a photo shoot I had yesterday with a beautiful family. Chad and Julie have a beautiful home and their backyard made a perfect backdrop. Their kiddos were so much fun to shoot and they were adorable! Loved seeing their personalities come through... Hope you enjoy!

My little boy...

2009-05-26T20:16:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since I have taken many pictures of my Ben. I think I have purposely chosen to not do so lately because, sometimes, I feel like I stick myself behind the camera trying to find the perfect picture, while somewhat missing a beautiful moment with my son and my family...

It was yesterday that a beautiful moment was made for me! I didn't have to "plan it" or even hint at it, it just happened naturally, which to me, are the BEST moments to capture on camera!

Jeff had gotten home early from work on Memorial day, and joined Ben and I in the backyard finishing up our gardening... We sure were busy all weekend, and we had the perfect weather for it! We weeded, planted pansies and petunias in pots, and started our vegetable garden for the summer. Tomatoes, mini pumpkins, cucumbers, lettuce, and carrot seeds were laid in expectation of the growth to come! Ben was my little helper, right by my side... walking around the yard with his little shovel in hand, ready to dig in the soil. It wasn't until I got the hose out to water our yeild that the "moment" happened...

I began feeding our thirsty vegetables with water, when Ben walked over and leaned into the stream. At first I wondered, "What in the world is he doing?" and then I realized it... he was mimicking our yellow lab, Chase (I often let Chase drink from the water hose). I laughed out loud and hollered to Jeff to come see, which only egged Ben on more! My little dude must have been real thirsty, because he continued to lap up water more and more.

Needless to say, I had to run inside and grab my camera to capture this surprising, unscripted moment! Pics are below...

My little baby turned two today and I can't think of a more perfect way to capture his joyful innocence than in these shots. He is always up to something, wanting to explore or figure things out on his own, running around in his blue crocs.

This is JUST Ben. Sipping from the water hose, not worrying about how wet his clothes are. Pure and simple, as life should be. Reminds me to get a little soaked sometimes too!

Figuring this thing out...

Right before he squirted himself in the face...

On a different note...

We went in for my 20 week ultrasound this morning. For Ben's birthday present, we told him he is getting a baby sister (come early Oct.)... We couldn't be more thrilled to be welcoming a baby girl soon!

Happy watering to all of you!

Welcome baby...

2009-05-25T20:49:00.000-07:00

On Friday, Jeff and I ventured South to visit our dear friend's, Dave and Melissa and family. They just welcomed their 4th GIRL to their litter and Melissa and I had chatted a while back about me taking some newborn pics when she was born! It is not often that we get to see them, but when we do, it is always so much fun! They also finished a HUGE remodel and add on to their beautiful house! When we walked in, I fell in love with Melissa's new kitchen, so much so, that my oohing and awing might have overshadowed my pleasure in also meeting their new little one!
This family has had one busy year. From living in a 2 bedroom apartment for an entire year, while work was being done on their house, to welcoming their new baby girl, to moving moving back into their house... we are so proud of them for their presence in their community and for all of their new happenings! The new baby and house are GORGEOUS!!!

Yawn...

I also got to snap a few shots of their 2nd youngest. She was too too sweet swinging on the playset in their backyard!

A Spring Wedding...

2009-04-19T21:06:00.001-07:00

I had the opportunity to photograph the sweetest couple on Saturday for their wedding portraits. The weather was perfect for many outside shots at their beautiful home. Nice filtered light with the clouds and it wasn't FREEZING and RAINING, as it often is here in the Pacific NW. I got SO many GREAT shots of the two of them. The bride was stunning in her gown and the groom... very dapper!

Guy and Dayna, I hope you enjoy your sneak peak=) I'm excited to finish up the rest! And, I wish you many many happy years together! Congratulations!

And, they lived happily ever after...

Official website...

2009-03-29T15:02:00.000-07:00

I have an official website now!!! Check it... www.kellyharperphotography.com

This should help to provide more information to prospective clients, as well as help me to continue to build my portfolio!

Excited!!!

Lovely...

2009-03-26T21:29:00.000-07:00

I got to collaborate with my dear friend, Michelle, www.michellenewellphotography.com on some of her maternity pictures. I got to shoot in her home studio! I took the pics, she edited! We are quite the team=)

Anyway, she is due ANY day now and I think she wears pregnancy BEAUTIFULLY! I am so excited to see her be a mom... she will be a pro! And, I am excited for when she can do my maternity pics!

Playdate #1...

2009-03-22T14:57:00.001-07:00

Been a while since my last post... We found out a couple of months ago, that we are expecting another baby... due Oct. 7th!!! We are very excited, but I have been in the midst of managing the nausea and fatigue that comes in the first trimester, so needless to say, I have felt a bit lazy lately. My free time, most recently, has consisted of lots of naps! Anyway, I am just now getting around to posting some shots I have had on my camera for quite some time...

These shots are from a playdate Ben and I had a few weeks ago, with Mr. Shane and his mom! What huge eyes he has!!!

Playdate #2...

2009-03-22T14:43:00.000-07:00

Another long over due post, from a playdate Ben and I had back in February.

Little Miss Elliott is all smarts and attitude!

She takes right after her mom, and her mom would love me for saying that!

Been awhile...

2009-02-10T15:39:00.000-08:00

Here is a little sneak peak for my dear friend, Krissy, and her beautiful family. This was a session that had originally been planned for earlier in January, but due to sickness, we had to reschedule. And, with rescheduling, came finding the right weather in the dead of winter for outside photos.

I have always wanted to try shooting at the Country Village in Bothell, so we headed over this past weekend. It was pretty chilly, but the kiddos braved the air and put their smiles on! This family blows me away with the strength they possess and the beautiful bond they have together. I hope they enjoy these pictures! It was a pleasure getting to do this with/for them!

On a totally different note... I thought I would post a little buisness update. I am foreseeing some busy months ahead for me. Busy, meaning, prepping for an official photography buisness launch by early Spring, if all goes as planned. Jeff and I have talked about this in great detail over the past several months, and we have come to the conclusion that I should GO for it.

Currently, I am still in portfolio building mode and have some shoots lined up in the coming months to continue to buff up my skills and portfolio. But, I will also begin work on an official website along with some marketing tools to have ready for the Spring! This is exciting for me, but also a tad scary. As with anything in life that you walk out on the ledge for. I'll keep you posted!=)

Ben's favorite Christmas present...

2009-01-07T22:04:00.000-08:00

... was a battery operated firetruck toothbrush! It really is the COOLEST thing. Even, I want to brush my teeth with it. And, the COOLEST part about it, was Santa got it for FREE... earlier this year at the local Monroe fire station. The elves decided to stash it away for Ben till Christmas.=) Now, all Ben wants to do is brush his teeth... that, and eat lots of blueberries=)

Anyway, I know my latest postings have been of Mr. Ben, but I can't resist his photogenicity (if that is a word). I do have a couple of different photoshoots coming up, so stay tuned...

BB's...

2009-01-04T22:17:00.000-08:00

Ben LOVES blueberries, except he can't quite get out the full word, "blueberries"... so he calls them BB's. He loves blueberries so much, that I am thinking we need to buy stock in them... We have tons and tons stashed away in the freezer from when we picked them back in the summer. He wants them with EVERYTHING... in his yogurt for breakfast, as a snack after his nap, and instead of his peas for dinner. I am waiting for the day when his poo turns blue=)

Beautiful family...

2008-12-27T20:37:00.000-08:00

I had the opportunity today to photograph one of my most favorite families! I have known the "C" family for a few years now and I always tell them, they are the COOLEST!

And, what a great learning experience in my skills too! I have to admit, I was a tad nervous for this shoot... besides the fact that we had to chain up to get out of our neighborhood (we still have LOADS of snow here and it is WAY worse now that it is all melting into slush), this was also the largest group of people I have photographed to date! I knew it would be a challenge with finding the right amount of light inside. Fortunately, the drizzle let up a bit for us to venture out in front of their beautiful house to get some shots and they have LOADS of windows inside!

Their kids are GORGEOUS and have the most amazing smiles! And, it was so great to meet the extended family too! I had a lot of fun with you all today! Thanks for inviting me to do this for you... I hope you like your sneak peak...

Waiting for Santa...

2008-12-25T21:04:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!

Craftiness...

2008-12-24T13:16:00.000-08:00

I thought I would post some of my "homemade" gifts I am giving to family this year for Christmas. We have literally been, "snowed in" these past few days, so it has given me plenty of time to get these last minute projects done. What can I say, I work best under pressure.

Super Easy Cheesy Coasters... For my brother and sister in law, plus some sweet homemade jam, picked from our wonderful NW strawberry bushes this past summer.

A growth chart... For our precious new little nephew.

And, a country quilt... for my parents. My big Christmas gift last year from them, was a sewing machine, so I guess their investment has paid off, with this gift, given back to them. This was my second quilt I made this year, along with aprons and placemats.

Anyway, more CREATIVITY and CRAFTINESS to come in 2009!!! Stay tuned...

AND... most importantly, Merry Christmas! These gifts are given from my heart to the people that I love. But I know they measure nothing, compared to the greatest gift given to ALL of us over 2000 years ago...

Cheese ball...

2008-12-18T14:11:00.000-08:00

We have gotten wave #2 in snow today, here in the lovely Puget Sound area. We went to bed last night with snow already on the ground from our previous surge and woke up this morning to find even more snow. BUCKETS and BUCKETS of snow! I would estimate we have about 10-12 inches on the ground right now. I do not remember when we've had this much snow... probably when I was a kid! Even now, as I type this, I am looking out the window and I see HUGE snowflakes STILL coming down! It is TRULY a sight to behold! Just BEAUTIFUL!!! I often times feel, when these storms come in, that it is God's way of just getting us to stop for a bit. I love the glorious expectation of it all and the constant checks out the window. I love that things get cancelled and we get to stay home. Life needs a storm once in awhile, i think... it does people well.

We went outside this morning to play in it. We had better luck bundling Ben up in his snow suit. We triple socked him to ensure his boots would stay on. The neighborhood kids were all out in the thick of it and our little culdesac was a bustle. Chase had a ball with our next door neighbor's dog. They ran and ran and Ben enjoyed a push around in the sled! I made a conscious decision to leave my camera inside for that time. Often, I feel like I "miss out" when I am toting my camera around, looking for that perfect pic. Today, it was just about play!

I did, however, sneak outside, once I put Ben down for his nap, just to take this shot. Ahem... a self portrait, if you will. I set up my tripod and struck a little pose, just to remember this day and this GLORIOUS FOOT deep snow!

May you and yours slow down and enjoy the beauty of this time!

Snow day...

2008-12-17T20:14:00.000-08:00

We had the first snow of the season here in Monroe this past weekend. It was quiet, beautiful, and WHITE. I love it! I love the snow, until it turns into brown mush, then I am ready for summer again... but, while it is newly white, I feel at rest... at peace... especially during this month, this season.

Of course, we had to take advantage, so we bundled (I mean, BUNDLED) Ben up in his first snow suit... complete with hat, gloves, coveralls, boots, and fleece. Only problem was, we could not find the right fit for all of his gear. His coveralls were way too big (I had to roll them up) and his boots just kept falling off of his feet. He was a little modge podge marshmellow and he was NOT having it... The fact that he had a bit of a cold, didn't help matters either. That said, we didn't spend very long outside, nor was able to get very many "snow" shots of him in his little snow apparel. However, i did capture these...

My winter pansies all covered in white...

Chase, aka. Super Dog... He is so staturesque.

I couldn't resist posting this pic.=) After the snow, we came in to drink some hot cocoa, which was quickly spilled down the front of his white shirt. Runny nose, cold red winter burned cheeks, and hair needing a cut, this is MY little man at his finest!

Ah... those eyes!

2008-12-09T15:55:00.000-08:00

This is another older picture I snapped earlier this summer. I have been saving to post this picture, until I could do a bit more editing with it. As I said in an earlier post, I spent yesterday afternoon with my friend, Michelle. She is a PRO in photoshop and was showing me some of her super cool actions... "Bitchin Black and White" it is called. Love it! Anyway, we edited this picture in that and I love how SHARP it makes everything about him look! Yet, ONE more reason to teach myself photoshop... oh, the many things you can do! I absolutely LOVE this picture! In fact, it is our desktop picture=) My SWEET sweet, Ben...

Books...

2008-12-09T15:44:00.000-08:00

I am ashamed to say, that I am not much of a reader. Reading is one of those things that I wish I could do more of... without falling asleep.=) So, it is always a GREAT surprise to me to see Ben picking up a book! It is one of his MOST favorite activities and I am more than happy to read to him (that is the teacher in me coming out) and teach him all about ALL of the things we see in his books.

LOGO...

2008-12-08T22:24:00.000-08:00

I spent the day with my friend, Michelle(http://www.michellenewellphotography.com/) who helped me create a logo for my photography business! I absolutely LOVE it and I SO appreciate her PHOTOSHOP help! Makes me want to get a book soon to learn photoshop. Anyway, I am proud to rock my new logo... improvements to this blog to follow in the future, so stay tuned... AND, THANK YOU SO MUCH, Michelle!

Baby Linc...

2008-12-08T22:06:00.000-08:00

This past weekend, I had the privaledge to photograph my new nephew, Lincoln. This was my first time shooting a newborn, and I couldn't have asked for a more relaxed atmosphere. We took our time, making sure Lincoln was fed and happy. Kyle and Laura are always so laid back, and they are making wonderful parents to their new little one! I am so proud to be his Auntie! He is absolutely precious!!!

Thanksgiving...

2008-11-30T14:52:00.000-08:00

We spent the past few days with Jeff's family for Thanksgiving. We got to relax up a lot. Ben's nana got out a lot of Jeff's old toys from when he was a little boy. Trucks, cars, and an old fisher price circa 1975 choo choo train. Ben had SO much fun playing around with all of Daddy's old items.

Ben all snuggled up with his Pawpaw, doing one of Ben's FAVORITE things... reading books.

Poor Chase. He usually has to stay outside during our visits with Nana and Pawpaw. He was a pitiful sight looking in at all of us.

Jeff originates from Arkansas, so needless to say, there is LOTS of good southern "soul food" grubbin! Many oh many tubs of butter is used in the making of thanksgiving dinner. Ben, like the rest of us, was in hog heaven! Here he is, after the meal, enjoying his first piece of pumpkin pie!

Fun Fall day outside...

2008-11-30T14:29:00.001-08:00

The weather, for the most part, has been so pleasant lately. Jeff was home from work the other morning, so we decided to get the wagon out and have some play time outside for a bit. Of course, i had to take my camera too! The expression on Ben's face is funny. Only we know, that that look is his "tired" look. He must have been ready for a nap!=) And props to Grandma, for taking up knitting recently... Ben's little hat is her first project completed!

Happy Birthday, little Lincoln...

2008-11-15T22:21:00.000-08:00

I'm an Auntie!!! He is the most precious little guy, born tonight to my brother and sister in law... Congratulations, Kyle and Laura! We are SO excited for you guys! We are praying for rest for the both of you, during these next few weeks. Stay tuned for more photos of this tiny fellow=)

Grandpa pride...

2008-11-11T15:45:00.000-08:00

My Dad found this leather jacket for Ben a couple of months ago. He insisted on purchasing it and giving it to his grandson. I think the real reason for the purchase, is because my Dad has a matching jacket. Anyway, Ben wore his coat for Halloween, dressed up as Indiana Jones and my Dad has been dying to get a picture with both of them in their Indiana Jones' coats! Hope you like this one, Dad. Ben is all smiles sitting on Grandpa's lap=)

My baby Ben...

2008-11-08T22:11:00.000-08:00

More summer memories of my little boy.

Summer memories...

2008-11-08T22:03:00.000-08:00

I have been organizing my pictures from this summer and found a few I shot early on to add to my portfolio... It is funny to see mr. Ben look so young in these shots. So much has changed within him since early summer. He is walking, talking, and is becoming more of a little boy. I remember people telling me, when I was pregnant with him, that time goes by so fast... that your children grow up so quickly. Now, standing on this side of motherhood, I see first hand what these women were talking about. Still... it is hard to believe. I LOVE this time I have with him and I am so grateful!

Wedding...

2008-11-08T21:38:00.000-08:00

Today, I got to tag along with my friend Michelle and her husband Jerry while they photogaphed a wedding. Michelle is an AMAZING photographer in the area and I have been learning SO much from her! Props to my gal...=) www.michellenewellphotography.com. I am lucky to have her as my friend AND mentor. She has helped me grow in my photography in many many ways... Anyway, I shot a few object shots at the wedding, just for kicks.