sweet shibui photography

Something old...

2010-06-21T13:40:00.002-05:00

...is this blog. So I've decided to say a fond farewell to this site that's gotten me so far in my life and my business in the past two years and move onto something new! Please follow me on my brand spanking new blogsite here: sweetshibui.com/blog!

I will no longer be updating this blog--so scoot on over here and I'll see on the flip side!!!

a beautiful thing

2010-06-02T20:58:00.000-05:00

I met Abbie and Mike at Minnehaha Falls Park--yet another reason why it's so great to meet my clients at new locations. The park offered so many different photo opportunities, it was fantastic! It was one of our first gorgeous days of summer and people were out in force taking advantage of the beautiful weather. We were no exception.

Abbie and Mike: So great to hang out with you guys and get to know you better. I'm super pumped for your wedding in October (especially since we get to meet the entire family the week before-yay!-), this summer is just going to fly by.....!

In absense, there is still presence...

2010-05-28T16:38:00.000-05:00

Where have I been? What have I been doing?

Well, I've been working on several top secret projects (seriously, I've been sternly instructed to zip the lip) and undercover missions (that one isn't so serious). Good things are to come, this is sure!!!

My first session with Cat and Curt was cold. Like, wicked cold. Considering we were running around trying to warm ourselves while looking for fantastic locations in the knee-deep snow, we fared quite well. All things considered, a spring {warm} session was declared in need. We went to the same locations, but what a different effect a few measly months have! Love these...mucho...

Cat and Curt; can't wait to shoot your fabulous wedding in July! You two are so easy going and naturally beautiful together, I feel so honored to document your day.

I like me some good sun flare!

I think this one is my favorite...heart...

Trying out some new textures-thoughts?! Leave me your comments! :-)

Rwwwaarrrrrrr!!

Pomp and circumstance

2010-05-19T11:12:00.000-05:00

The auditorium was fairly full as 400+ students filed in, blue gowns freshly pressed, hats pinned on just so. It took us a little bit, but we spotted her. Pride and smiles, we laughingly waved, pointed and proudly exclaimed, 'That's her! There is she! I see her!' The culmination of many long hours of homework, seemingly endless projects, scheduling debacles, Internet connection fiasco's, commuting, learning and last minutes babysitters all piled into one two-hour ceremony. She still has a few things to finish up (and will be completely finished in December), but that's just pomp and circumstance.

He waits so patiently...

Woot, woot!!!

MORE COW BELL!!!! :-)

Congratulations class of 2010!!!!!

Just Jack

2010-05-16T12:07:00.000-05:00

Because skinny babies are just not quite as fun.

;-)

My nana has the most fantastic knitting talents.

She made this hat especially for little Jack--could it be any cuter?!

Introducing :: Parker

2010-05-14T09:35:00.003-05:00

Oh, my! I'm on a roll-three blogs in three days!

:-)

Edy makes my day...and now that she's a big sister, she's become quite the little character!

Her facial expression is priceless!

Casey :: 7 months

2010-05-13T08:29:00.004-05:00

Aaaaahhhhhhh....a photo post! How long it's been! Feels like ages...

Business is busy as summer is around the corner and I have to say that I'm getting excited for the warmer weather and, especially, boating season!! Casey's session took place a couple weeks ago when the weather was actually warm (not this rainy mess we've had for the last few days). She was so interested in everything that wasn't in front of the camera, but that's usually how it goes for the little ones. As always, she had both her mother and I laughing along with her.

What a cutie...and those CHEEKS!

Ahhhh. I heart them.

See what I mean?

The little cow makes me smile...

so big!!!

Ooooo...a byline!!!

2010-05-12T16:27:00.000-05:00

Perhaps...I embarrassed some people who know me.

Oh, that's right.

I did the happy dance. Kirimi, you know what I'm talking bout. Inst, inst, inst, inst, inst...oh, yeah!

Why, you ask?!?!

My first photo byline! How exciting! To read the entire article click HERE!!

What's up with the one sentence blog posts?

I have no idea.

I think I like hitting 'enter' too much.

My bad.

because she is, I am

2010-05-09T09:08:00.003-05:00

words cannot describe how amazing, beautiful, fantastic, loveable, imaginative, friendly, talented, inspirational, caring, trendy, super, talkable, laughable, creative, fun, compassionate, crazy-haired, dance-like-nobody's-watching perfect my mother is.

Happy mother's day.

ONE!

2010-05-07T15:28:00.001-05:00

Okay...so it's not an 'EXTRA, EXTRA, READ ALL ABOUT IT' kind of situation. I admit, I dropped the ball on this one.
Baby Gavinn turned one!

Nearly three months and change ago.

But just because I'm late doesn't make him any less cute!

These were taken on his birthday: January 21.

Since we were shooting on the actual day, OF COURSE he had to have some cake! I love these little cakes made by Angie at The Ole Café. Not only do they look ridculously adorable, but they are so nummy, too!

Gavinn wasn't quite sure what to do with it at first...

But it didn't take him long to figure it out.

He was...messy...to say the least!

**********************************

Okay, time for a flashback.

Can someone please explain to me how this...

...turns into this in just a few short months!?!?!

These were taken about three weeks ago...

Unbelievable. He. Rocks. My. Socks. Off.

In theory, ending with this shot would be a perfect segway into Tawna and Charlie's engagement session...but I'm going to sit on that one for a bit.

I'm so mean.

But don't hate.

It will be worth it.

Have a fabulous weekend!!!

Ashlynn: family session

2010-04-28T13:51:00.000-05:00

She was less than two weeks old when we captured these images. In a perfect world, I'd shoot all newborn photographs within ten days of delivery. The skin is so soft and wrinkly and their little bodies are still so tiny and delicate. I don't think it will ever cease to amaze me how fast kids grow and how quickly they learn.

Yay, loving a bit of baby drool!

Big brother Uriah!

Lillian

2010-04-27T13:09:00.000-05:00

Oh, what baby blues.

Lily wasn't quite sure what to think of me when I pulled up to her house, but she warmed up pretty quickly. One of the perks of going to my client's houses is that there is an endless supply of accessories. I'm not a huge fan of using generic props, so it's really a win/win situation. Plus, she had two of the cutest chairs...and an old school play car...and many dolls...and a puppy...

Sunday Funday #2

2010-04-25T20:28:00.006-05:00

It wasn't planned.

It just happened.

Much like the perfect storm, it was the perfect mesh of...

...mixed with just a touch of this (the rope, not Charlie's uncomfortably disturbing tall white tube socks)...

...add one wakeskate...

...and a placid creek in a semi-populated countryside.

I, for one, was not planning on going in.

But Mr. Nick was.

Oh-it's about high 50s outside of the water. So...brrrr......

Teege wanted to play too, but from the safety of the wheeler!

Two up: wakeskate and kneeboard

Gavinn, perplexed as usual.

Um...not the...ahem...clearest water...

However, two VERY enthusiastic (cold) thumbs up!!!

Another successful Sunday Funday!

YAY!!

2010-04-24T10:56:00.002-05:00

It's all fixed!!!!! :-)

I think I even got all the emails that were just floating around somewhere, too.

Yay for technical support!

Computer issues...

2010-04-23T22:10:00.002-05:00

Meltdown.

Complete and utter.

My website has decided, apparently, that is also needs a vacation.
I'm working on finding wherever the heck it disappeared to, so hold your horses! :-)

Oh-I'm also not receiving any emails at my @sweetshibui.com account as of right now either. If you sent me an email anytime between 3:00p.m. Thursday and now, I have NOT received it.
Please hold all emails until this issue has been fixed--I'm so sorry for the inconvenience!

I know. Like, totally happy friday. And Saturday.

Oh, well. I'll keep you posted, hopefully I can resolve all this by Sunday!!!!!

My sincerest apologies

2010-04-22T19:29:00.002-05:00

I apologize.

For the sheer length of this post. I mean, what is happening! I had quite a few people tell me that they wanted to see more photos of the great Alaskan get-away, but I took it there...went 50 feet further, around a corner and through a tunnel. I kept editing and editing and when I was uploading I couldn't believe I threw down over 30 images.

Sickening, right? Bored yet?

So, if you're so over Alaska and all things winter, feel free to skip this post. I'll get things back to normal next week. But for now....

...let's see...Oh, yes. We left off in Seward. Which I love. Much.

Here's the main street with Marathon Mountain in the background

(Haha...I was roaming around town taking photos while the boys were waiting to be picked up about 5 miles away...whoops!)

I also hit up the Alaska Sealife Center...awwwww....

This guy was totally flirting with me. I could tell. He just kept swimming in front of me and coming back...twirling...I liked him. I named him Simon.

Got lost and ended up in a cargo loading area. Driving Paul. I'm sure nobody saw me.

leaving Seward, headed back to Anchorage

ARCTIC MAN!!!!!!

and a wipe out...ouch...

The skiers would basically disappear off the top of the hill and reappear WAY down at the bottom as a little tiny speck. Insane speed.

Over 7,000 people bring their sleds to the middle of nowhere for this competition and to ride.

and this is how we made our morning coffee. In Paul. Did I get a photo of our living arrangements for the weekend? No?! Why would I? Honestly...pathetic...

Ricky got stuck.

Playing around

Bummer-blew out a tire on the way from Valdez back to Anchorage. Oddly enough, we were driving right by a bicyclist when it happened. It was super loud, poor biker...that's what you get for exercising! ;-)

We came back from Arctic Man Sunday and Nick and I had all day Monday to roam around and do whatever. We decided to drive to Whitter so I could drive through the train/traffic tunnel (Nick did it two years ago when he visited).

Ricky had an awesome ride for us to take for the day: meet The Bruiser.

Mr. Nick had to check the oil at nearly every stop.

Epic.

Every 15 minutes traffic is stopped so a train can go through the tunnel. On the half hour, traffic flows one way, on the hour, traffic flows the other.
A two mile long tunnel through a mountain for all road travel to Whitter...

A hospital that was built for use in WWII but was never actually used.

Checking the oil

I likes.

Back for our last night!

Where I got SO CLOSE to a baby moose-on our last day. How lucky was that!!!!

Yay---what a great trip!!!!!

Comfort

2010-04-17T11:59:00.000-05:00

It's the place you turned to first when you had a bad dream. It was warm, inviting and always held the scent of sleep and comfort. The place you'd want to play while mom was putting laundry away and the place where it seemed like you could jump and touch the sky. Where books were read, cuddles were an everyday occurance and there was no such thing as an alarm clock.

A place where only good dreams slip into your mind and all the worlds troubles seem to fade away.

Laughter and giggles, happy thoughts and warm fuzzies.

It's your parents bed.

And introducing little Jack!!!

******************************

The hat is hand crafted by Jen at Angel Wear by Jen

Seriously, how cute is it!?

The girls posed themselves for this shot-I honestly had nothing to do with it.

*********************************

Just Jack.

Both the hat and the cuddle bag were hand knit with much love by my Nana (Jack's Nana-Great).

And, yes, I'll eventually be getting more Alaska photos up here!!!! Soon soon, I promise promise!

Into the swing of things

2010-04-13T18:38:00.000-05:00

We're back!

:-)

The grass is green, the trees are budding, I was able to pull out and dust off the flips this afternoon--life is good. I have many images to sort though from the last leg of our trip, so I'll pause on that for now and give you a little bit of this guy instead...

T•R•O•U•B•L•E

Levy was so sweet-he says way more words-per-day than most kids I know that age. And he warms up pretty quickly, too! Now if only I could figure out a stealthy way to nab the Goldfish... ;-)

Honestly. How. Cute.

This one makes me smile...

And this one makes me laugh. If there ever was a perfect family portrait, to me, this is it. Love the imperfect perfections.

::Keegen & Ella::

2010-04-10T10:32:00.000-05:00

There's something about having a sibling that makes childhood just that much more fun...

Again, I have no idea what it is about this image, but I just adore it...

Love those eyes...

A hand knit sweater from Nana-Great

Miss Emma

2010-04-08T08:05:00.002-05:00

Okay, let's take a break from me!!! :-)

Emma's huge eyes rock my socks off. I've been photographing her for nearly a year now so it's so fun to see what new thing she's learned since the last time I've seen her. She was full of energy for this session and just a ball of smiles...too sweet...

My fav from this session...

Diggin the hat? Get your own!! Jen makes awesome hats for boys and girls of all ages and can also make custom orders, too!!!

How cute is Emma with cousin Stella?!?!?!

photo post

2010-04-07T17:13:00.000-05:00

Preparing for the rest of the week's adventures today, so here are some images from the past two days (most taken on Mr. Nick's point&shoot as I wasn't daring enough to take Mark out in the wet slush...)

Meet Paul, our faithful cube van.

View leaving Anchorage

Stopping at Turnagin Pass for some blizzardy fun

I heart Seward

Where I dropped the boys off at the Lost Lake trail...then proceeded to pick them up at 4, when they had been waiting there since 2...whoops...

Ahhhhh...Seward...and sea lions...

that kind of day

2010-04-06T15:09:00.000-05:00

The kind where the snow falls gently outside while a steaming latte sits next to the laptop. Soft music wafts through the coffee house and every now and then a blast of chilled air is felt as a new customer walks in, stomping the slush off their boots, and settling into their own state of bliss. Yes, I found my very own safe haven. Like a beacon in the night, I can spot a coffee house from miles away.

Yesterday was an eventful day. Just after we woke up and settled on the couch with our own cups of Foldger's best (oh, by the way, we're rewinding and are at Ricky's at this point in time...) we remembered how poorly the three of us together manage time. That said, we spent the better part of the day having breakfast (love dive diners) and staking out REI. It was early afternoon when we thought we should pack up and get the heck out of dodge...so we loaded up the 'snowmachines' (as they call them up here) and took off south.

Ricky has amazing patience when answering all my questions. Some dumber than others, he always has an answer: Yes, Reindeer sausage is actually made out of Reindeer; No, we will not see penguins; No, there is not an alarming rate of people-killed-by-moose-rammings; No, I'm not a complete idiot for not packing hiking boots; Yes, moose will travel in groups, but only when they're not alone...you get the idea. Me asking questions is the majority of most of our car trips, I think Mr. Nick finds them amusing and not old or tiresome at all...tee hee...

Anywho, we stopped at Turnagin Pass to take the sleds out and play a little. I say 'take the sleds out' because we're driving around in a cube van, not a vehicle and trailer. I was a little apprehensive as the visibility was terrible at best, and I had no idea what the lay of the land looked like. Even with tinted goggles the fact it was snowing fairly consistently and it was completely overcast made it hard to see the different between a cornice and a flat area or if there was a drop off. Crazy. But, better to try now than wish you would have later, right!? I rode with Nick and it was SWEET! Nothing like snowmobiling around home, the snow was soft and all over the place. Ricky said that we were on probably 12-14 feet!!! I tried it myself and got stuck twice, which doesn't take much. It was fantastic (I'll post all photos later-forgot my card reader back at the homestead).

After playing around for a while, we packed up the sleds and drove into Seward (not 'Steward', 'Stewart', or 'Seaweed' as Ricky has continually corrected me) for dinner and to stay overnight. As I'm typing this, the boys are out riding somewhere along Lost Lake trail (three people on two snowmachines is not optimal for fun riding) and I'm back in Seward, occupying my time as I see fit.

Boring post with no images, I know, but I just had to give an update for those curious about Alaska vacations. Seward is an awesome town--nestled between the mountains right beside the Resurrection River, it's a fantastically photogenic. However, today is incredibly overcast with dense fog, but I hold out hope that it will clear soon so I can go exploring!!!

Destination...Alaska!!!

2010-04-05T01:31:00.000-05:00

It wasn't what one would call the best start.

About 11:00 Saturday morning Mr. Nick and I decided we should look up our intinerary for our flight which was to leave Sunday at 3:30. Funny thing is, we couldn't find them. Anywhere. We even called and apparently our reservations were never finalized.

Sweet.

We quickly jumped online to find new tickets-for our same flight it would have been nearly double what our other tickets were supposed to be. After being incredible disappointed at the thought of not being able to go we found tickets near the price of the 'originals'. Hitch was, we needed to leave for the airport in about three hours.

Well...we made it. Sure I completely forgot to pack a few key items and some of the things I had planned to accomplish before I left still remain on my To Do list, but...we made it!!!

Here are a few pics from a hike we took today. It started to rain/sleet/snow, so we didn't get to go rock climbing like we planned, but we still got a cool view...

Ricky showing Nick some climbing skills

My hiking boots...were left at home.

...the Borns will have to do...

Lilliana: Senior

2010-03-29T10:17:00.001-05:00

It seems strange to think of her as a senior. I mean, obviously the day would come where she would graduate high school and wander out to college and life beyond, but I can't believe that day is nearly here. I can still remember her in her silly poofy hats, strands of beads, playing dress up and making mud pies. Crying on her mother's wedding day (as another cousin stealthily told her that her mom would die after she got married. Nice thing to tell a five-year-old, PR), screaming as we scared her in creepy masks outside her bedroom window (still sorry about that misguided decision), laughing as only a person can laugh when they are completely content just being in the moment.
She's always had that.

And now here she is, all growed up. She still cries alot-like at Hallmark commercials and the movies like The Time Traveler's Wife where sobbing would be a more appropriate description, but she still goofs off and laughs like it's the only thing on her mind.

Dear cousin: Thank you for some fantastically memorable times. I wish you nothing but the best in your Waldorf adventures and can't wait to come visit you there (perhaps even catch a game or three). You are the best at being just who you are, I hope you never forget that.

Love much, me.

Okay, I'm not sure what it is, but I just love this one.

All you need is love

2010-03-26T09:36:00.001-05:00

Okay, I know I promise more of Lil, but I'm having a bit too much fun editing them thus it's taking me a wee bit longer than expected! Lots to post next week for sure!!

I was backing up all my photos last night when I came across these-I can't believe I forgot to post them!!

A perk of shooting with Shauna Younge Dessert Tables is...you guessed it...tasting the treats afterward! That and Shauna is just plain awesome. ;-) Her creativity amazes me: the silhouettes are hand cut and the framed words are Shauna exclusive as are the cupcake towers and all the labels on the variety of goodies. She even designed the cookies on paper and her baker recreated them perfectly. Girls got skills!!!

These popcorn bags, with custom labels, boasted delicious Chicago mix, caramel or crunch.

Ok, this was my fav. These are chocolate covered strawberries. When Shauna told me that I had to have one, I was super skeptical. I was thinking somewhere along the lines of nasty grainy fake strawberry jell encrusted in crumbly chocolate. Obviously, I should have known better. It was like an authentic chocolate/strawberry explosion in my mouth! Real strawberry, smooth melty chocolate, crisp outer shell...I'm drooling just recalling the memory...

Aren't these super sweet!? And delicious to boot!!

Custom printed/created labels

Who's hungry?!

;-)

teeny tid bit

2010-03-21T01:24:00.000-05:00

Yep, I'm so lame that I'm blogging at 1:22 a.m. on a Saturday night. This after I have spent the last 4 hours staring my computer in the fizzace -it's a word- rehashing all expeditures from 2009 in preparation for my tax man.

Yeah, I'm that cool that I can spend my Saturday night blogging and preparing tax documents.

Don't hate.

Since I am about the worst when it comes to waiting, here's a little nugget from earlier today. Chicken nuggets sound delectable. This is another cousin of mine (I have many). Seriously, we come from the same tree people. In some wrong twist of fate, my apple rolled oh-so-far away. Poor lonely apple.

(It's late, cut me some slack.)

Just one for now...plenty more to come soon...promise, promise (say it twice you really mean it, mean it!)!!

St. Patty's and birthday wishes

2010-03-17T10:56:00.000-05:00

I don't remember the exact moment you were brought home, but I do recall stories that I was mad because I wanted a brother. After a while, I must have conceded and thought a little sister was alright, too. Someone to play barbies and 'Mommies' with (why the heck was that the name of that game?). Someone to make endless treasure hunts for and a student to sit in my play classroom. A forgiving and patient model for all my photography endeavors. A talk show guest. An enemy in 4-wheeler hide-and-go-seek-tag. Someone to ride bikes with and read stories to. A fellow co-hort to jump in the rain puddles with and to drink hot cocoa with later. A friend to have lunch with (whether it be on top of the little house at the end of the driveway or a more established Hogan Brothers) or to call simply to shoot the breeze. Yes, a sister is alright. Sure, there may be a hole in my door from where you stabbed it with a butcher knife and a cut under your eye from one of the many brother adventures, but that's just a part of normal childhood wear and tear. As you finally come into the 20-something world, I have to say that I'm so proud and happy to have you as my sister. Who would have thunk it?! I'm so happy for the person you are turning out to be and feel so blessed to have a sister who I can also call one of my best friends.

Happy birthday, Cletus. You're alright.

Courtney and Chad :: Engagement

2010-03-16T11:27:00.000-05:00

All three of us were 'just getting over' some stage of late-winter sickness as we headed out into the woods. Makes for the most of romantic times, right?! The day was fair, as far as Saturdays in March go, and we actually lucked out as it could have been much cooler, windier, rainier (it's March. One never knows!). Courtney and Chad were super easy-going and we had a good time getting to know each other over laughs and sniffles. I'm super excited for their July wedding (bring on the warmth and sunshine!)!!

Sunday Funday

2010-03-07T19:15:00.001-06:00

Sunday Funday: (n) The glorious holiday at the end of every week to celebrate the end of a long and tiring 6 days. On this day, its observers are to completely relax in whichever way they see fit. Most events start in the early afternoon, and end in time for all participants to get to bed at a reasonable hour to prepare for the beginning to yet another long week.

Snowmoboarding: (n) A newly developed sport influenced by wakeboarding and snowboarding - a snowboarder is pulled behind a snowmobile with a pull rope like a wakeboarder, but on a snowboard. The snowboarder can be towed into jumps, rails, or cruise on flat land. Can also be used with skiers.

Let the games begin!

Setting the scene:

Can you tell what's obviously going to happen next...?

There were a few spills...tee hee...

:-) He's so darn cute!

Brit opted for flips. Then sat around in bare feet. In the snow. Yep.

Catalina & Curt::Engagement

2010-03-05T18:24:00.000-06:00

Ok...I meant with Cat and Curt nearly a month ago and we picked the first Saturday that worked for the three of us. Amazing luck would have it, it was a beautiful Minnesota winter day with temperatures in the balmy low 30s!! Catalina and Curt were super easy-going and we made our venture short and sweet. And how sweet it is! I'm very much excited to photograph their wedding in July-bring on the summertime!!!

Oh....rraaaawwwwrrrrrr! Quite possibly, my fav.

Just dance!

2010-03-02T12:42:00.000-06:00

I've never been to a dance competition. Like, ever.

My Aunt called me a few weeks ago and invited me to tag along at a invitational for the local high school dance team. Being more than slightly embarrassed that my cousin had been on the dance team for years and I had yet to attend a competition, I heartily agreed to join her. I had no idea what to expect and, I honestly have to admit, I was a bit blown away and totally hooked watching these girls perform. Insane. I'm almost quite positive that my body has never been, and will never be, able to bend or move like that. Really makes me look like the convulsive one on the dance floor. No, I'm not having a seizure, I'm just rocking all my moves. These girls, however, can bust it. Hard core.

High Kick and Jazz...and winning first place!! :-)

Yeah, she's taller than me. As a junior. In high school. I totally grabbed the short straw in the family milkshake when it came to height, dancing skills, competitive spelling and overall clothing style. However, I can pretty much out eat anyone.

So bring it.

smiles and energy

2010-02-28T14:25:00.000-06:00

On location shoots mean something different every time. I mean, I guess any shoot is different than any other, but there is something about going into someone else's home, backyard or personal location choice and poking around. It's like being an unusually large sized fly on the wall...'cept more on the floor...and with a camera...and backdrop...and purpose. Oh, yeah...they are aware of my presence.

But you know what I mean.

Tanner and Elia definitely kept me on my toes, whether it was about showing me a new toy, something 'exciting' under the kitchen sink (haha...Becky, that was too funny...) or just being themselves. Love. It. Kids and their abound energy and curiosity and playfulness is what I dig the most-as both a photographer and a person. Seriously...can't wait for the day that stuff can be bottled.

Awwwwww! How cute are they?!

Elia had just turned one, so what better way to celebrate than her own personal cake (these cakes are ridiculously delicious and brought to you by the Ole Café!)

Seriously. Heart. It.

30 years love

2010-02-26T08:04:00.003-06:00

A few weeks ago, I recieved a letter in the mail that wasn't a bill nor was it soliciting insurance or grocery savings--how stoked was I? I lifted the flap and instantly smiled when I read the inside info. My Aunt and Funky Unky (yeah, just go with it) would be celebrating their 30th anniversary this year. My parents, as well as Mr. Nick's parents, also threw down the big 3-0 within the last six months...must have been a busy time in...1980...? What? haha...Anywho, being married on the leap year, there really isn't an exact day to celebrate this year, but that's all semantics anyway. Ever so creative and thoughtfully, my fav cousins Kirimi and Emily (and I can so legally say that as all my cousins are my fav) had organized a sweet little surprise plan. In lieu of a major party (we're spread thoughout the nation. No joke.) they decided to host a memory party. They sent out little 3x5 inch cards for us to write our memories of the happy couple and mail them back to be assembled in a book and presented as one united gift. What a great idea!

Since I'm still getting reorganized in the photo filing, I opted for another approach and clip-arted the heck out of it.

To my dear Aunt and Uncle; I thank you for all the great memories of the past and look forward to those yet to be made. It's always an adventure with you both, thanks for letting me tag along. With much love and gratitude for everything, TD.

First birthday: Miss E

2010-02-23T09:17:00.000-06:00

If this doesn't make you smile today, you should probably just go back to bed.

Will have more of this little one and her family in a day or two, but I couldn't resist posting this gem. What a sweetheart!!!

Ruby Thursday

2010-02-17T22:00:00.000-06:00

I'm not sure what it was that drew me to Ruby. Was it her curious, standoffish initial wary attitude toward me? Or perhaps it was the way she couldn't quite keep her concentration on anything for more than a few minutes (which, haha, reminded me of stories I've heard of myself when I was younger). Or the way she would sit, for just a second, deep in thought about the task at hand whether it be examining new nail polish, pointing out and naming her dolls or rediscovering the amazing abilities of Dora and Amelia Bedelia and then, even more suddenly, she'd be off on her next adventure.

Yet another reason to love other people's kids.

As if I really needed another reason.

a day for love

2010-02-14T16:49:00.002-06:00

I sit today with so many words, thoughts and emotions coursing through my system. It's my favorite kind of day. A delicious-smelling pork concoction slow roasting in the oven, turnovers cooling on the counter top, relatives who were once far away are now home again, safe and sound. With the snow whirling outside, cozy fire lighting the room inside and a relaxing evening with Mr. Nick ahead of me, how could I possibly be anything more than nonsensically content.

But I am.

It was roughly three years ago while I was sitting at my desk in a windowless office, laughing to myself in amusement over the fates of life. Is this what I went to four years of college for? So I could make copies, run errands and do computer work in a job that doesn't even come close to inspiring my creative side or nurture the person whom I eventually want to become? No. I don't think so. Even though I had no idea which course of action I wanted to take, I knew that there had to be something more, something different. Something strenuous and difficult, something that would be ridiculously challenging at times thus being that much more fulfilling and enjoyable when the sun had set and the day was done.

I cannot thank my lucky stars enough. Going back to school and figuring out the career that's really for me, that's really me, is possibly one of the biggest risks and the best random decision that I have ever made.

So here I sit, reflective on life as I know it. The balancing act of the hard times complimented with so many more better days. The risks taken and the rewards gained. I am so thankful for the life, love, family, friendships and all that I value and hold dear. And it is oh, so much the sweetest Valentine's gift I could ever give myself.

Happy Valentine's day.

miss isabella

2010-02-13T08:49:00.001-06:00

I blog all the time. Unfortunately, it's mostly in my head. I have these great ideas when I drive to work, when I'm making a tuna sandwich or when I'm seconds from slipping into sleep, yet as soon as my fingers graze these twenty-six pewter keys my mind goes blank, finger still.

What gives?

Although today I am at a sincere loss and don't have profound words of wisdom to expel on my audience or hilarious anecdotes, I do have Isabella (ok, I know I rarely have pearls of wisdom and I am even more rarely hilarious, but just flow with it). Not only does she rock my socks off, she doesn't really even need an introduction. Perfection.

Getting out there

2010-02-12T08:19:00.000-06:00

Just a little note of the day--we're making Cyber headlines! Haha, okay, not really but sort of. My images of Shauna's stellar dessert tables are now featured on Eat Drink Pretty and The Sweetest Occasion!!!!

Happy Friday!!!

Since everything is better with with a photo, here's another little slice of sweetness: Ruby. Will have more on her next week, what a cutie!

Kelsie: 3 years

2010-02-11T09:03:00.000-06:00

This little one...I tell ya. If she's anything like her mother, look out! Haha, I kid, I kid! Mostly.... ;-)

Rachel and I were friends in high school and when I heard she was pregnant I distinctly remember thinking that she was going to have a seriously adorable blond-haired, blue eyed beauty. Little did I know! I had a great time this summer trying out my first-time photobooth at Rachel and Brian's wedding and knew that photographing little Kelsie would be just as much fun.

Although she was a bit hesitant at first, it took about five minute for her to warm up to me! Showing off her stuffed animals and her 'inside joke' thumbs up, Keslie was just a hoot from start to finish!

Oh, those eyes!!!

A one-armed snow angle?! Why not?

sweet little Casey

2010-02-09T18:01:00.001-06:00

It's funny how fast babies grow into real people. I mean, think about it. In a year they develop not only muscles that allow them to be mobile, but also the brain capacity that says, 'hey, I want that toy. I bet if I move my hand like this...yep, that's mine!'. Let alone rolling, crawling, identifying colors and sounds...Not to mention the mad skills it takes to use a bottle. Try it sometime. How do they do it!? Blows my mind!

Casey is no different and she had some funny little noises to go along with her wide range of facial expressions...too bad photos don't capture sound...yet, anyway. :-) Lovely!!!

One of my most favorites

...and my other most favorite

Feels like January

2010-02-05T10:57:00.003-06:00

I'm back!

BOOM, baby!!!!

Yeah, I just quoted the Emperor's New Groove. Don't hate.

I have my computer once again!!! Due to a back ordered part, I was without my little guy for nearly four weeks. Insane. Word of the wise to anyone who values their computer work: back up, back up, back up! I was able to retrieve all my information (I'm 94% certain I only lost by Internet bookmarks), but that's not always the case. I'm so happy I have an external hard drive and bunches and bunches of discs laying around!! Anywho, that's all in the past, no need to dwell...still...heavy sigh of relief...

I've been working like crazy to get caught up--possibly even ahead!--and get back on track. I have so many posts to catch up on and I hope to be posting much more often in the coming days, weeks, months, millennium, what have you. Let's get this ball a-rollin!

I met Shauna about a year and a half ago for a make-shift maternity shoot. Even though we had several mishaps during the shoot (we rented a studio that didn't quite hit the head on the nail when it came to accurate descriptions of the equipment and space...) she was a super rockstar and took everything in a stride. Bringing fun new ideas to the table, we had a great *hot, muggy* day. She has since had her little bouncing bundle--with, possibly, the best hair ever--and started her own business. Check it.

Shauna Younge Dessert Tables is...well...super sweet. On all accounts. Shauna has a great eye for detail, crazy people skills, and some super nummy treats which will surely make her new business a blooming success. This table was designed off this inspiration board (borrowed from Shauna's blog)

From gathering visual info from all these aspects, she creates a dessert table that not only incorporates the feel of the wedding/event but also the personalities of the people involved. Genius.

Some of these are hand painted (yes, that's right, hand painted truffles) and custom designed especially for Shauna. She searches high and low to find something unique and fitting for each catered event and she seriously knows her sweets.

Oh, and those purple flower little suckies--located in the stage left--in the square bowl? I had one. And I think it changed my outlook on purple candies forever. Mr. Nick and I both decided that is what the color purple tastes like. Like a rainbow of purple fairies dancing in your mouth. This coming from the girls who dislikes grape Jolly Ranchers, Popsicles, Skittles and all other likenesses. Except juice. I likes the grape juice.
Anywho....continuing on...

Why, hello macaroon tower. Where have you been all my life?

Ok, see the little bitty cookies in the front? They are like Cheetos, Bugles, M&Ms and shoes all rolled into a delicious bite-sized little cookie--there is no way you can have just one.

Jack of all trades

2010-01-26T12:27:00.004-06:00

I can do alot of things. At one time. I've perfected the art of the multitask to a T. Being at a loss this month with no computer has left me up to my own devices to occupy my time. Watching television isn't just one task for me--ask Mr. Nick if you don't believe me. I must have my main channel with at least two backups to switch to while on commercial. At the same time, I'm reading a book, balancing my checkbook, surfing through cookbooks, chatting with the buns, washing dishes and cleaning. Restful, no. They way I roll, yes.

Not having a computer for nearly three weeks has about put me over the edge businessly speaking, yet allowed me to relax and find myself after a crazy busy (and über fantastic!) holiday season. I've caught up on all my filing and household chores which was no major feat considering the 5ft stack of cardboard taking over my kitchen and the complete absense of solid-ground-not-covered-in-paperwork in the rest of the living area. I've completed so many tasks from my honey-do list (to myself) that there is no list any more. No joke. I even managed to fix my own sink (after I broke it, but that's besides the point). Last night I read an entire book. Cover. To. Cover. Again, it's how I roll. (James Patterson totally rocks my socks off.)

All this being said, I can comfortably say I am a Jack of Most Trades, Master of none. With a clean house, organized 'office area', and a new, reliable vehicle on the way, I can pretty much say Life is Good.

Now all I need is my computer.

Excited...

2010-01-11T09:18:00.003-06:00

So, still no computer. Of my own, to speak of anyway. It's in getting revamped with even more space than before and I sincerely hope to have it back by this Friday--the work is really starting to pile up!! :-) No computer equals a somewhat lame post (meaning lack of photo) but here I am anyway. Go figure.

This weekend was super exciting for our family as my sister and her boyfriend announced their engagement!!! Could I be any more pumped for them? I think not! She called me about 10:43 p.m. Saturday screaming 'I'M ENNNGGGUUUDFBBBLAAAHP' (that's what it sounded like. No joke.) I had to ask her to tell me again before I really understood what she was talking about! :-) In true Tawna style, by mid-Sunday a date had already been set and plans were underway. I'm so excited to help her plan and to watch her, Charlie and Gavinn really start their own family together.

Dear sister--much love and happiness to you. I couldn't possibly hold more good feelings for you right now! I wish the three of you the best of love and all things imperfectly supuerb. Enjoy these months of planning, knowing the rest of your life awaits you. Love you, T.

Side note...I totally get my very own first brother-in-law!!! Sweet...2010 is turning around faster than I thought it would! :-)

Misdirection in 2010

2010-01-06T09:19:00.002-06:00

So...2010 has proved, thus far, to not be my favorite. Since the beginning of this year my car has broken down-again-, my computer crashed and I've had the 72 hour flu. And it's only January 6th. I'm thinking this might be one of those years that start at the bottom with things progressively getting better? I hope so! :-)

For the grace of good family, good friends, good humor and a somewhat healthy immune system, these issues are only minor.

Either way, my computer is out of commission for the next week or so. This means my blog posts and print orders will be non-existent until I get my baby back, restored and feeling good. (Email responses will be sketchy at best as I won't have constant computer access.) I'm SO SORRY for the wait, but, on the brighter side, I don't think I lost any information (i.e. photos!) so high-five to me for backing things up!

I'll be posting again once I get things back to normal, thanks for all your patience and here's to a healthier climb in 2010!!!

all things energy and super

2010-01-02T20:58:00.003-06:00

Jennifer contacted me for a family session and I was told by her sister, Sandy, that her boys would be a good time. (Okay, complete side note entered here: I was going to link to Sandy's family session and was backlogging to try to find it...when I realized that I haven't even blogged about it yet. Wow. I am sad--much to do in the new year! Alright, back to this post!!) Seriously, they crack me up. Not like it takes to much anyway, but still. They were awesome. Little Kaeden has the sweetest little cheeks and hilarious expressions and his brothers were not too far behind!! It's so easy to see that Jennifer and Tim enjoy being parents--extra props to her for being slightly outnumbered!!! :-)

Seriously...I laugh *with* Treyton's expression...every...time...priceless...

little slices of heaven

2010-01-01T20:24:00.006-06:00

There is something to be said for the candid shots during a 'routine' family session. That being said, ha, nearly none of my sessions go routine! :-) After the shoot, when I go through all the images to select the best, I always include a few not-so-perfect smiles, a couple where not everyone is looking, a select few that may not be award winning to experts, but sure are to the families who will cherish these images for years to come. These are, more often than not, my favorites.

I knew Kaden and Karson were going to be fun as soon as I came in the driveway and Karson announced 'the lady is here' then promptly fell down the outside stairs. Pulling at my heartstrings and reminding me of some of my own imperfectly perfect family, we set out wandering the yard in search for that perfectly imperfect shot.

2010

2009-12-31T12:17:00.000-06:00

Really?

I remember when I was in 3rd grade and we had to draw a picture of what we thought the world would be like in the year 2000...I think mine summed up to be something like spaceships and flying discs, people living on the moon and underwater. Obviously. Life hasn't progressed quite like my 3rd grade imagination predicted, thank heavens.

I have had a great year and was somewhat sad to see 2009 come to an end. It will forever be the year that I welcomed my second nephew into our family. The year I graduated from college (again) and the year I started my very own business. Raise the roof. It will be forever in my self as the year I finally figured out what I want to do with my life and were I really found not just a job, but a career. That I love.

Thank you all for such a great year. My goal this month is to get all caught up on my blogging, so stay tuned for October (yeppers, you read that correctly), November, December and beyond.

Welcome 2010!

Holiday Ordering and tid bits of info

2009-12-14T18:35:00.004-06:00

Hello and happy mid-December!!!

Things have been CA-RAZY for me these past few weeks--as can be seen in my lack of blogging.

Any last minute holiday photo orders

MUST BE IN BY WEDNESDAY, 5 P.M.!!!!!!!

(This is not a drill people!)

After that--orders will not be placed until 2010!!!!!!

Yay!!!

I'm really going to get back to blogging. I'm not joking, I will. Soon.

I still have stuff from OCTOBER (yeah, as in two months ago) to chat about. Stay tuned.

For now--how cute is little Piper?! Wow-zas!

(there will be more of this session later. Trust me.)

quintessential

2009-12-02T21:16:00.006-06:00

Is not my style nor is it my outlook on life. Ha, for that matter it isn't my life. Period. But isn't it such a sweet sounding word?

Anywho, I just finished editing my first session with my new camera and I'm all goo-goo eyes and lollypops with it. I mean, seriously. Hands down sweet-arse purchase!!! I had to call Mollie right away and tell her the images of her B•E•A•U•T•I•F•U•L daughter were ready. Perhaps I shouldn't be sharing this, but as a person quite critical of her own craft, there are very, ver-ahy rare times when I am over the top, excited as all can be, pleased-as-punch with what I designed, created, imagined. If I über adore more than a handful of images from one session, my clients are destined to enjoy four times that many. It's like a weird twist of fate or something...don't ask me. I'm not a scientologist. When I started to process the images of little Ella, I knew this was going to be one of those times where I would power through all the images at once for the sole purpose of enjoying the end result. All to myself. With my bowl of peanut M&Ms as my guide.

I hope you enjoy as well.

These are all almost 100% natural light. My favorite kind of light to shoot in...rock it.

love it!

The photo behind her is of big brother Keegen at her age...they look identical...awesome...

Giving is Awesome

2009-11-27T00:01:00.001-06:00

You know someone.

You know someone who's experienced a tragedy, is struggling to stay afloat, is raising kids while holding down more than one job, or is volunteering selflessly despite extenuating personal circumstances. You know someone who can't afford custom photography, but who would cherish it this holiday season. You know someone who deserves a year-round reminder of their family's spirit, love, and beauty.

You know someone. I guarantee it.

I want to know who they are, and I want to give them the chance to experience complimentary custom photography – over $200 worth, to be exact. This offer includes:
•an outdoor family session with online proofing gallery of 30 final digitally enhanced images
•1-11x14
•4-5x7s
•24 wallets
•3 accordion-style brag books (new product!) featuring 10-15 favorite images

Oh, and the best part? The person who nominates the winner receives 50% off their next canvas gallery wrapped portrait!!! What better reason to show some love could there possibly be people?

The rules:

* You cannot nominate yourself, and the person nominated must sincerely be incapable of purchasing my services. (Being unable to make mortgage payments for a two-million-dollar-vacation-home in Paris does not qualify as sincere financial need.)

* The nominee must reside within 100 miles of the Northfield, Minn., area.

* You must e-mail me the full story with 'giving is awesome' as the subject: tlittle@sweetshibui.com. (no phone calls or Facebook nominations please!) Tell me who you know, what they're experiencing, and why they deserve my artwork. Don't forget to include a way to contact both your nominee and yourself as well.(out of respect for the winner, the story/names may or may not be posted on my site)

*Session must be booked by August 2010

All nominations must be received by Christmas Eve--the winner will be announced at noon on Christmas (if possible)– so get nominating! I can't wait to read all of your entries!

Open your heart to someone this holiday season -- and thanks for giving me the opportunity to open mine.

With love and super excitement,

Trish

Know someone perfect to nominate who lives out of my area? TONS of photographers are involved in this campaign -- check it out!!!

giving thanks...

2009-11-26T17:32:00.005-06:00

Since I plan on doing a looking back, thoughtful, lengthy New Year's post, I'll keep this holiday post short... ;-)

Hope everyone had a chance to get together with family, loved ones and friends and give thanks for all the blessings and obstacles in their lives. Without hardship how are we ever to know true success and give thanks for the road, perhaps less traveled, that got us there in the first place.

This holiday I give great thanks to my Mr. Nick, my family, friends and clients who have helped make this year phenomical (yep, I just made that up) for me this year. I also thank the Buns for not chewing on my computer cord this morning when I left it in reach and I give some serious props to Mr. Beaumont for consistently coming through for me, even after being in two accidents and multiple (minor!) traffic stops. Which brings me to my next thought: I am thankful for my Nana and all her thoughts, letters and über sweet knitting goods she passes my way. And for my lead foot that I obviously inherited from her. And much thanks to the roommates for more than I possibly have the time and room to list here.

Since letters and words are boring, I'll close with a session from a few weeks ago-yeah, weeks. I know, I'm getting things in order, be patient! :-)

Also, be sure to check back tomorrow for details on the holiday giveaway sweepstakes...

Ooooo...it's a sweepstakes now. How couth of me! (That word is real. Sort of.)

These guys were so super awesome! Like most of the days in October, this one was cold, cloudy and somewhat ish...but the sublime cloud cover made for excellent light so I just couldn't resist!! It was so bloody cold out (ooo, I sound British!), but they all did what they could to think warm thoughts and smile through the bitter breeze to get some truly fun shots.

holiday surprises...

2009-11-24T19:40:00.008-06:00

Hello dear friends, family, clients (whom I consider friends!) and fellow blog stalkers!

Attention, attention!!

:-)

This is a little bitty mini reminder that any and all orders that you would like in time for Christmas (as that framed photo of you and your family would make the bestest gift for Aunt Suzie in Tuscaloosa) need to be placed by DECEMBER 5.

Also...in light of the holidays and how much helping people warms my heart, I have a little contest that I'm going to be offering this year.

Curious?

I THOUGHT SO!!!

This contest will start, go figure, on Black Friday and run through Christmas Eve. I'm going to need all the help and responses and feedback as possible so please, please, PLEASE spread the word!! Stay posted for more news, but I promise, it'll be super.

Because all posts are better with a photo... :-)

beautiful family

2009-11-23T16:30:00.001-06:00

Once there was a tree..... and she loved a little boy.

And every day the boy would come and he would gather her leaves and make them into crowns and play king of the forest.

He would climb up her trunk and swing from her branches and eat apples.

And they would play hide-and-go-seek.

And when he was tired, he would sleep in her shade.

And the boy loved the tree.......very much.

And the tree was happy.

together

2009-11-22T13:42:00.000-06:00

Looking back, you can't tell at all how cold it was that day. Okay, it wasn't freezing, but we did have several breaks to run inside and warm up!

Thanks to the Born family for all your smiles and great ideas!!!

precious addition

2009-11-21T11:20:00.000-06:00

boy meets girl

girl falls in love with boy

boy asks girl to marry him

two become one

then a few years later...

one becomes three

Farmer George

2009-11-20T09:07:00.000-06:00

For those who know him, George is a spitting image of his father. To the point that it's almost scary. Just kidding, Joey! ;-)

George got a new Case trailer and International tractor for his 2nd birthday and he couldn't be more pumped about it! Finally...a way to haul all his goods...

little miss

2009-11-19T08:59:00.002-06:00

As soon as I got there, Emily was all about it. She totally brought her A game. Ella wished she was anywhere else. I could tell. While Emily sat chit chatting about this and that, Ella clung to her mother, hiding from me and keeping that precious little smile to herself. Eventually, though, she opened up (especially when she saw her pumpkin!). They were such awesome sports about the cold weather, thanks little ladies!!!

my new boyfriend

2009-11-18T09:12:00.003-06:00

Yep, that's right.

My new boyfriend.

He's hip and with it.

I know how to push all his buttons.

His name is Mark.

Oh...shhhh....don't tell Mr. Nick. He might get jealous... ;-)

baby blues

2009-11-16T12:41:00.000-06:00

How is it possible for him to go from this to this already?? And those eyes! Yep, Beans is going to be a heartbreaker...for sure...

9 months

Yay, family photo!!

Beautiful.

fall leaves and little boy treasures

2009-11-14T09:52:00.000-06:00

Something about little boys makes me sigh inwardly and instantly brings up memories of not-long-enough summers, building forts and mud fights with my own brother. Little boys have the innocent mischevious ideas and never-ceasing energy that just begs laughter and good times. Tommy and Charlie were absolute dolls--racing from one area to another, discovering little boy treasures along the way.

a little bitty sneaky peak!

2009-11-12T07:26:00.000-06:00

I have zillions of images to sort through and narrow down and I know Jo and Chad are dying for a little something-something...so...here it is.

Just a taste.

Teeny, tiny.

Believe you me. There is plenty more. Just a little bit longer...

These are just a few of my favs. Jamie was my second shooter and she was so stellar, I can't wait to shoot with her again next month!

Oh, kids. Don't worry. I'll write more about you two next time, too! ;-)

happy smiles

2009-11-09T18:00:00.000-06:00

Usually it's the same lines: Say cheese! Over here! Fuzzy pickles! (Seriously? Where did that come from, anyway?).

After listening for a same few minutes, Maddie finally shouts out with the confident air of that of a happy child, broad smile across her face: "CHEESE, FUZZY PICKLES, RIGHT HERE SPONGE BOB!!!"

Not sure how Sponge Bob got himself in there, but it sure lit the twinkle in her eye!

Obviously, Kolton also rocked my socks off...

And Jack? TOO CUTE!

This one makes me smile...haha...

Aliina ❤ Drew

2009-11-04T07:46:00.002-06:00

I had a bit of some unexpected dental work done a few weeks ago.

Yep, it's that kind of story.

Assured that I wouldn't be in much pain after the procedure was over, they shot me full of Novocain (twice) and began. A very rough 2 hours later, my dentist was apologizing to me and, as the nurse walked me to the door, she admitted that she was getting a bit squimish herself, something that very rarely happens to her. Thinking to myself that there must be a silver lining somewhere I asked the dentist what I should take for the pain. He wrote me a prescription. And hello silver lining!

After quickly downing two of the little capsules of heaven, I read the directions (it's how I roll). DO NOT DRIVE. Big, bold letters. Uh-oh.

Aliina, Drew and I have rescheduled over 5 times due to weather, traffic and unexpected events. I was not about to cancel again. So the choice was obvious.

Mom to the rescue.

I met Drew for the first time chock full of mellow painkillers in the passenger seat of my mom's LeSabre, floating on cloud nine. If that doesn't scream professional photographer, I don't know what does.

Thank you both for being so understanding through all the rescheduling and sublime cloud I was in during the shoot. :-) Simply beautiful.

Familee

2009-11-02T06:16:00.000-06:00

Autumn cracks me up. She has one of the sweetest little girl smiles, but as soon as that camera comes up, nothing. Nada. A big goose egg. Until she gets the giggles and starts getting silly...

On the other hand, Allie is ready with a grin and usually a random accessory like a mini kid couch. Or chair. You know, easily hide-able things. ;-)

Either way, it's fun. Why? Because kids with their free energy, goofy personalities and lovable expressions...pair that with a set of good-looking parents...what's not to love? ;-)

Possibly my favorite of Allie...

...but at the same time, this one brings me instantly back to childhood, so...

...and honestly. Sigh. So adorable.

So how it is, right? Right.

Awwwwwwwww....!

Snow...in October?

2009-10-31T17:06:00.000-05:00

Oh, yeah. That's right. I live in Minnesota.

:-)

I asked Tasha if she'd like to reschedule in hopes for a better, warmer, day...and was THRILLED when she said heck no! We may have froze our toes, fingers and pretty much every other variable, but we had a great time. Tasha: awesome time. Thanks for hanging in there, I wish you all the good times you can handle and the best of luck in the years to come.

Alicia ❤ Josh, part dos

2009-10-30T19:53:00.003-05:00

Getting back to the blog scene, coming up from shooting and editing for a bit of air before I dive back in. What's the point of going swimming if you don't get both feet wet, right?

Something like that, anyway...

Alicia and Josh, what can I say? You had a beautiful day and Liz and I had such a great time getting to photograph your wedding. I wish you and your family the best of everything in the future--you deserve it.

The first look...

Liz was my second shooter for the day and she was awesome! This is one of hers...

And another from Liz...

Liz...

Yeah...my brides are sweet...

Casey

2009-10-28T09:24:00.002-05:00

I recently became an aunt-of-sorts-not-in-law to one particularly captivating, beautiful little girl. For months we watched Heidi’s belly grow and move, while this little one was created into a perfect being. She arrived last month boasting a head of thick dark hair and some fairly stellar baby blues…well…let’s just say you’ll be seeing many more photos of this teeny precious one…

Cruise for two? Ummm...yes please!?

2009-10-23T15:24:00.003-05:00

A couple weeks ago, when Mr. Nick and I were talking on the phone, he casually brought up that he had been entered into a drawing for the local BNI group and had won one of the grand prizes. Thinking it would be a 21 speed bike or a fruit-of-the-month club membership, I was casually interested. And then he said he won a cruise for two. As in, the two of us. Hot dog!

Thank you, Dr. Misner, you are my hero. ;-)

We left early (like, 3:00 a.m.) for the airport Friday morning and boarded the ship in Miami a bit after noon. We arrived in at the Nassau, Bahamas, port at 10 a.m. on Saturday. Relaxed on the beach all day--hello fantastic warmth! Sunday was all on the boat and we got back to Miami mid-morning on Monday.

Fantastic whirlwind vacay...

sporting the beach kicks...

Good-bye Miami...

...and hello Nassau!

beach bums

after we got back to Miami we had time to kill so we toured the Everglades on an air boat...then tried the local fare...

still had more time before going home so we hit up South Beach!

thanks, Mr. Nick!!!!

I wanna be a super model

2009-10-22T10:34:00.004-05:00

Every time I photography Lala, Coleton and Mr. Brock...I love it. Hearts, every time. These kids have such personality and it SO SHOWS in their images--Internet, don't you agree? I have come into a new faze that I love when little boys wear ties. Why? I have no idea. It is so blasted adorable, I want to just seize them and keep them forever in my pocket.

I have just returned from adventures unknown and, don't worry, will have photos to post in a day or two. Until then, enjoy the fabulousness that is all things innocent, unconcerning, energetic and fantastic.

Other people's kids.

Amy wanted photos of each one separate and then a few together. Kinda like mini sessions for each one. Super fun!

I want those cheeks. Killer.

And...these are their usual expressions. Haha, makes me laugh!

Seriously? Heart. It.

See what I mean? Little boys in ties...sigh...

Yeah, I know they have the cutest faces, but I was really digging the clothes. And, obviously, the boots. Rock it!

and, per usual, why not a little bum crack to finish out the post? ;-)

Mpls senior

2009-10-18T11:43:00.000-05:00

I highly doubt there was ever a fellow who was more laid back than Evan. Anything I suggested or talked about he was all, 'cool', 'sure' and 'ultimate frisbee'. What can I say? It was one of the most relaxed and easy-going sessions I've ever had! Thanks for a fun afternoon, Evan. Good luck with college and the rest of your senior year~!

miss independent

2009-10-15T11:36:00.005-05:00

With the sense of assurance only a two-year-old can have, she ran full speed toward the gurgling water. Abruptly stopping at the rocky ledge, she barely hesitated before climbing to the top of the feature and only then turned back to look at us. Accomplishment and 'look at me, Mommy' gleaming in her big, bright eyes.

Oh, Gracia, what glorious energy and self-reliance...I could follow you around for hours...

makes me smile

2009-10-13T20:15:00.003-05:00

How she is already a senior, I will never know. These are just the start...work it, girl!~

and this is what happens when your mom comes along and gets bored with assisting and carrying chairs...haha...

One of the best things about shooting in an unfamiliar area is coming across new locations. Like, such as, abandoned buildings...

oh, dear cousin...much love...

he's just that kinda kid

2009-10-08T05:36:00.002-05:00

When I was in high school, I owed (or rather, my parents did) a 1984 navy blue fully-loaded-with-nothing-automatic Buick LeSabre complete with a center console that didn't close, a temperamental seat belt, non-functioning tape deck (yep. T.A.P.E.) and a trunk that leaked water in when it rained. I sported a film Minolta camera that had seen better days, but still rocked my world. And that was about it for my technologies and material toys. Apparenlty, I'm easily contentable. Yeah. I made that word up.

So, color me a bit more than amused when I met Cole. It's not every day that a high school senior owns and operates his own semi truck. And a new pewter Chevy with a lift and tinted windows (just to name a few slick features). And a Harley. Oh, yeah. A snowmobile, too. ;-) The best part is, this kid works, goes to school, is taking college courses and still has time to play. He's just that kind of kid.

Cole--so glad you were such a good sport as we all heckled you from behind the lens. And threw acorns. And threatened Vaseline. You have obvious drive and a zest for life of which I hope you never lose. Rock the heck out of your senior year and enjoy everything life throws at you. I know you will. You're just that kind of kid.

seniors, seniors, everywhere!

2009-10-05T17:13:00.002-05:00

It's raining seniors!

Okay, obviously not, but it is raining. And I do have a lot of senior posts to get up here. ;-)

Micah was super fabulous and fun to work with--I'm so glad it worked out for me to swing over to New Germany and get to know her and her family! Micah--I hope you have an awesome senior year and good luck in business school. I can't wait to visit your bookstore someday and muse about the time I was fortunate enough to capture a little piece of you and your positive go-to attitude on my teeny LCD screen...!

smile!

2009-10-02T13:44:00.003-05:00

Aw, Kory, what can I say! Thanks for a funny afternoon, I'm glad the weather was able to hold off (or better yet, not even happen)! It was nice to get to know you a bit outside of the 'AV kid' at my roommate's church: a persona which you wear so well!!!

Best of luck and all things excellent in your senior year. Good luck with whatever to decide to do next year and all years following. Keep that smile going strong...no, not that one...that one. Tee hee...

elsie

2009-10-01T23:48:00.005-05:00

She's like that rover thing. You know, the self-propelled vacuum that roams as it pleases, picking up little particles of life that you left behind. That's what she reminds me of. I let her out, and she comes back in with hordes of leave tucked in places unseen. Happily, she shakes off the Minnesota fall and trots her low self over to her food dish. I settle myself into the couch, popcorn and chocolate milk on the coffee table, laptop nestled amongst the blue blanket swimming in my lap. She cozily snuggles herself on my feet, snoring softly to the undertones of 'Scrubs' quietly glowing in the background of the darkened livingroom. Editing images has never been so welcoming.

The joys of watching someone else's dog in someone else's house.

Kate ❤ Erik

2009-09-27T10:41:00.004-05:00

It wasn't unusual for them to meet and go for walks in the Nerstrand Big Woods. What should have tipped her off was the nice button-up shirt he was wearing in place of the standard tank. Or that his sister canceled at the last minute so it was just the two of them. They made their way down to the waterfall and that's where he asked her to be his companion forever. To walk life's path as one. Always.

Kate and Erik, you were so great and flexible and so obviously in love. Thanks for letting me play around with some new ideas and totally rockin' them. I can't say how thrilled I am to capture your wedding next year!!!!

Oasis

2009-09-26T02:30:00.002-05:00

Figuratively, it means a pleasant or peaceful area or period in the midst of a difficult, troubled or hectic place or situation in life

Literally, it means I'm seeking safe haven in Buffalo Lake.

A place to chill, collect my thoughts, rejuvenate my childhood spirit and gain new perspective on life.

Times right now are not difficult, nor are they troubled or overly hectic (bring on October then ask me again!). Homecoming, fresh coffee, volleyball, football and senior portraits brings me to this particular neck of the woods.

I give you a small piece of B town.

E playing some football

Ash found a sweet caterpillar

I am crazy aggressive about coaching, refing, playing, or talking about anything volleyball. It is totally my sport of choice and it, in my book, is numero uno. My cousin, Lilli, has been on the varsity team for four years (FOUR YEARS!!!). Being a senior and a captain I was so pumped that I was able to take a day to go and see her team totally demolish Sleepy Eye. Rock it.

Side note: Lilli scalped #2. And owns it. Completely.

Hailey Senior

2009-09-24T11:34:00.000-05:00

I remember her as a skinny little girl, all bouncy red hair, green eyes and a wicked sweet grin. I feel like I'm dating myself when I say things like, 'it seems like just yesterday' and 'I can't believe she's already a senior' but it's the truth!

Hailey and Jessi-thanks for a fun afternoon of (possibly) trespassing, off-roading, good stories and amazing smiles. Good luck to both of you in your senior year--live it up (like I have doubts that you won't)--and have a blast at college next year!!!!! :-)

They like to rock the straight-faced look...

...but then there has to be the one with smiles for mom!! :-)

THIS JUST IN

2009-09-22T05:37:00.001-05:00

October.

is.

booked.

SOLID!!!!

Crazy, I know!! I have ONE singular day open from now until October 31. Any takers? Anyone want to schedule a session for Thursday, October 22? It will be really pretty and special and nice and everything fantastic and glowy about life. (Yep. It's true!)

November is as open as . . . something . . . that's really open. :-)

Think snow shots or bright sweaters against a fabulous natural brown backdrop.

Also, keep in mind that Christmas/New Years/Hanukkah is right around the corner! I do design custom greeting cards for the holiday season and guarantee that NOBODY will have a card that looks just like yours (sure beats Walgreens, eh?). Gimme a buzz or shoot me an email for specifics. All holiday card orders must be placed by Tuesday, December 8.

If you're thinking that your beautiful face would really make somebody's Christmas extra special (which, to be honest, it totally would) order up some canvas gallery hangings (so beautiful and classic) or ask me about other print ideas. To ensure your print arrives in time for the holidays, all print orders MUST be placed by Friday, December 11.

Ahem...gift cards also make great gifts. Teehee.

What a great plug this post is!

Have a super awesome Tuesday!!!

Since everything is better with a photo...Here's a little bite from Alicia and Josh's BEAUTIFUL wedding two weeks ago...

Ahhh...I heart it.

playing around

2009-09-21T05:10:00.000-05:00

I met up with Kelly and her kids at Sibley Park in Mankato on a beautiful, sunny afternoon. Wanting more candids than posed, I set to work.

Honestly, could this family be more photogenic or awesome?

I think not! :-)

mini preview

2009-09-19T07:21:00.001-05:00

This didn’t even make the ‘finals’ for Hailey's shoot, but I really like the clouds so I wanted to post it anyway!

Happy Saturday!!!!!

laugh

2009-09-17T09:16:00.002-05:00

Yesterday after work, I arrived at my house in a funk. What kind of funk, I’m not entirely sure, but a funk just the same. I wasn’t sad/mad, nor was I happy/excited. It was one of those afternoons where a unicorn could slide down from the sky on a rainbow and jump out in front of my car and bleet and me and I would shrug my shoulders and think, ‘eh’. It wasn’t a particular stressful or unordinary day…just a blah afternoon, that’s all. Anywho, I walked into my garage and to the back steps, getting in the mindset to really dig in and get down to business, when I spied it. There it was—my Wednesday salvation! Leaning against the rail was my own personal brown paper package, sans string.

I have had a particular pose in mind for going on two years now, but have needed certain equipment to fulfill my imagined composition. This isn’t rocked science, and it may not even be that cool, but I’m still pretty jazzed about it—that and the fact that my partner-in-crimes-unmentionable (teehee) gets to be the little piggy I try it out on (next weekend, stay tuned). Somewhat stoked and feeling the fog lift from my brain, I basically skipped down the stairs to my basement dwelling. Now…I distinctly remember thinking to myself, ‘yay for Wednesday’ as I opened the door…and then just as quickly my hopeful, happy thoughts dissipated as my brain slowly digested the scene in front of me.

Now, usually I am all about spilling the beans and blogging my heart out, **hello online diary!**, but if this got back to my roommates, I believe it would be grounds for possible removal of my domesticated household friends and possibly myself, so I’m going to keep the lid on this one (ok, I’m totally over-exaggerating here, but play along with me). Let’s just say that all I could do was push my organizational plans off for about an hour and a half and get to work. Oh, yeah, I also laughed until I nearly had tears. Because in any situation, when you think you’re in dire straights and there is no way out, when you think the top of your head is going to fly off and steam come rolling out yours ears, you might as well take a big, deep breath, let it out slow and just laugh it off.

I did accomplish what I hoped to yesterday and then some. And finally, right before I went to bed in the wee morning hours, I remembered my lovely brown package. I carefully removed the packaging tape, lifted the flap, and shuffled amongst the plastic air-filled cushions…and had to smile.

Here’s to Thursday!! ☺

The culprits

Thor

Thor stretched out in his usually position (on a Rubbermaid tub in front of the 1975 freezer—the lid is meant to keep his nosy self out from under there, where we discovered that he very much likes to chew on the wires)

Kujoe

Yea, baby, she's got it

2009-09-15T14:46:00.006-05:00

Whatever 'it' is, this chick's got it.

Like I said before, Kiersten is a beautiful individual. We met for the first time moments before these photos were taken and it was like hanging out with a good friend. As we enjoyed our nature tour (no joke, we saw squirrels, hawks, chipmunks, rabbits, and, yes, the occasional spider--sorry bout that one!) I got to know a truly unique person.

Kiersten, sorry about the fence, those things will happen. ;-) I am super jazzed for your future, be it Brown, Yale, Gustavus or wherever! (I will SO hop on the bragging bandwagon). Enjoy your senior year, thanks for an awesome and laid-back afternoon! -T

Everyone has to have that 'one for mom'!!! :-)

Seriously senior

2009-09-12T09:30:00.003-05:00

Kiersten...wow.

:-)

I'm heading up to Inver Grove Heights for a wedding today--yay, Alicia and Josh!-- but had to post a teaser of Kiersten's senior session. What a beautiful individual--will have more later, but for now... (this one is my fav)

sweet little ava

2009-09-09T10:50:00.003-05:00

I started playing around with some new techniques and tried a few different tweeks with these images and I am so super stoked about the results!!!

If Ava were my first newborn shoot ever, I think I would be ruined. She spoiled me with her big, baby blues and sleepy ways. This little one is going to be a heartbreaker and a natural born poser...take a look...see what I mean?