One Word for 2011

Looking over my list of new year's resolutions for 2011, it occurred to me to summarize my wishes, goals, intentions, with one word. I thought of many. But the one that I kept coming back to again and again was "heart." A simple word, really, however it strikes a deep chord with me. Some of the best advice my mom ever gave me as a young girl was to do this one thing. She told me to "always follow your heart" { thanks mom! }. Using my heart as my compass has led me to make some decisions about this year.

My second daughter will begin kindergarten in the fall ~ a monumental milestone for a child, and for her parents too. This has made me realize that I need to continue to build upon the educational foundation that supports her thus far and on throughout the summer.

I am happy to announce that I will be reopening my Montessori daycare for a summer program. Although, this time, we will be a Day-School: The Busy Bees' Montessori Day-School. I'll be opening my home to other children in the hopes that I can offer educational opportunities to help build upon their foundations throughout the summer as well. 

I have dreamed about opening my own school for years. But without the proper resources and know-how, I won't get very far. I've thought about getting an MBA in order to serve my heart's desires to fulfill this dream of mine. But that's for another post, another year. For now, I'll make this summer in my in-home school the biggest success I am capable of achieving! So, it is with all of my heart that I go forward this year in the spirit of education. :)

Now, I ask you, my reader, to think about what your one word is. This word should best describe you and your hopes for this year. I'd love to hear your response here in the comments section. I will be doing a drawing for a free, full, 1 hour photo shoot with me from the individual's comments on my blog! Any blog post of mine! What do you have to lose?! Of course, if you live in Ireland or Australia, your chances are slim. ;) The drawing will be announced Monday, February 14 here on my blog!  

Thank you friends, 

Here's to a great year ahead!! 

With a grateful heart, 

Barb 

Friends of The Farm

Winter in Pennsylvania poses it's own challenges, especially for us photogs. I find myself thinking, "where will I have my photo shoots?" since I don't have a studio - yet. A more creative venue begs to present itself. And then the "AHA!" moment occurred to me ~ the farm! This is the farm where my husband grew up. It is the pure essence of home. I felt it the instant I walked into my in-love's kitchen. If you've been in their warm, cozy home, you know exactly what I mean.  

My dear friend asked me to photograph her babies, now 4, 2, and 3months. We had the honor of photographing the kids at the family farm, baby lambs and all!!   

(my Alanna got in on the fun too.)

Here she is with her best bud as they patiently wait to hold a lamb...

Hey, Mom, look what I have!

a few days shy of 4 months, here is the little princess ...

(and model of my sister's knitted hats!)

Sweetness through and through...

and the boys ...

such the little heartbreaker...

growing so fast ~ look at this handsome guy :)

That's all folks! Till we meet again!!  

Thank you to my friends for a special afternoon of photographing, catching up
and farm happenings.
It was a complete treat for all of us! 

With love and gratitude,
Always,
Barb