First Day of First Grade

First grade!  How did this happen so soon?!  Too soon, for me.  My sweet, very artsy/craftsy, singing/dancing, silly, fun, adorable Alanna began a big adventure today with plenty of firsts to experience.  Of course, you knew I was going to take as many photos as possible - I see you shaking your head "yes!" ;)   

We managed well this morning, and I was able to hold back my tears until the bus pulled away.  I surprised even myself.  Although, Emmy wasn't quite able to hold back her tears and pleas of "don't go, Alanna." :( She is missing her big sister, very much.  Emmy will begin preschool in a couple of weeks - so that should help ... some.

I can't help but reflect on my Alanna's school days as I look through these photos and think to myself, "My, how big (tall!) she is getting and growing more beautiful all the time." *Sigh* 

Here's wishing all the kids, teachers, administrators, bus drivers, childcare givers, and parents a wonderfully invigorating school year filled with many safe, fun learning adventures!!  All the best to you… And, hugs, too! :) 

Don't eat the apple, Alanna!!  That's for your teacher!! 

She asked for "pig tails" in her hair today.

On the bus in the front seat and away she goes … (is it 4:15pm yet?!!) *sniff, sniff* 

my macro world

my macro world, a set on Flickr.

Macro photography to share :)

Back to School Sale | High School Senior Photography

It's that time of year, my fellow parent friends!  It's time to think "back-to-school!"  School supplies, paper & pencils, new shoes, fall clothes, haircuts, backpacks, bus schedules, class assignments, teacher assignments, and for the high school seniors - portraits!!  I have a plan to keep it simple for you - and some cost saving strategies, too!  Check out the flyer below, and then contact me to arrange your photo session.  I look forward to hearing from you and for the unique privilege of photographing your high school senior!!!   

Best wishes for a successful school year ahead!! 

Stirrings of a Home

I've been struggling with the questions and emotions inside my being of late.  Such strong emotions overcome me, and all I can do is internalize my feelings as they swirl, dance, kick and strike at me.  I do not want to share everything with my readers, and I won't.  Some things must be kept sacred and within our own hearts.  But, I do feel a great desire to share these images with you.  This is not my usual "happy-to-share," conducive to big grins and celebrations of life.  Although, full of life at one time, these images are void of such feelings and only reflect the remnants of a house that was once a thriving place.  Within these walls, I can still hear the voices of yesterday.  The footsteps that have tread in this home.  The shouts.  The laughter.  The tears.  The joys.  The shared meals.  The way a family fits together like puzzle pieces - only able to fully see the big picture once all the pieces are together.  And, again, I cry.   

How can a dwelling made of walls, brick, mortar, wood, stone have such an effect on me?  How is it that I feel so deeply rooted here even though I never actually lived within these walls?  Is it the stories that live within these walls that have been passed on?  Or the love I feel for the people that once lived here?  I am still working this out; still processing my thoughts and the answers to these questions that have built up in my mind.   

This home has been in my mother's family since 1922.  After the passing of my great Aunt Helen, we must prepare to say goodbye to it.  It's time to let go. . . And, again, I cry. 

My one hope that continues to burn in my heart is that a young family, or couple will purchase this house and love it, fix it, create in it, plant gardens and fill it with their own puzzle pieces.  I want that more than anything for this great house.  To be called 'home' … once again.