Welcome Summer - Newsletter of Events

Welcome Summer!  Hooray!  I love this time of year - the long, hazy days of pool time and beach days; frequent library visits and tons of reading; my family's tradition of evenings spent at our tree swing playing charades and watching the glorious sunsets take place.  Not to mention my garden - planting, weeding, watering; watching what transpires; the ebb and flow; the hummingbirds darting in and out; and nesting chickadees or house wrens that take up residence in our yard.  Oh, yes, life is easy living in the summertime.    

There's so much going on that I thought to make this blog post a "newsletter" worthy post.  I have business news to share and personal.  I'll start with my business portion:  

*Summertime Family Special

I had originally mentioned this special "Empty Nest" complimentary 20"x24" Fine Art Wrapped Canvas print offer in a springtime blog post particularly with thoughts of those families with kiddos ready to head off to college this fall, but then, I thought, "hey, this is a great incentive!  All families should have dibs on this offer!"  I do believe the summer after high school ends and just before college begins is such an incredibly important time in a family's life.  The great pause, if you will, before the big transitions that are about to take place for everyone involved.  This summertime in a family's life is invaluable and deserves documenting with portraits, showcasing the myriad of stories you have created together.  Before diving into the busy fall schedule and new routines, new schools, new adjustments, I'm offering you a way to hold this family time still, even if it's only an hour to two out of your day.  I speak from experience, friends.  I remember well saying "see you later" to my oldest daughter as she took flight from the nest, beginning her years of higher education.  Truth is, from a parent's perspective, the years fly by and before we know it (or might be ready for it to happen) our children are grown.  The summer before they begin their university work and career can feel uncertain, a bit shaky, yet thrilling at the same time.  Can you relate?  To take advantage of my special incentive, please contact me today.  My schedule is filling fast!  

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July:

I normally take the month of July off from portrait work, however, I will be scheduling sessions throughout the entire summer.  

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Senior Photography:

I have received interest in photographing, highlighting high school seniors.  I know many parents have already received information/pricing from your school's contracted photography studio.  I want you to know that there are other alternatives to the standardized norm.  I have put together 2 different packages especially for senior portraits. Please visit this link for all the details:  Class of 2016 Custom-Made Senior Portraits Offer 

I think you'll be pleasantly surprised with my offerings.  Again, please contact me today to get on the ever-filling-fast-schedule.  Thanks much! 

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Inspire Workshop Series:

I have decided to offer one-on-one DSLR workshops throughout the coming months.  I have found that it just works out better this way.  I can offer my guidance, wisdom in a more informal, personalized manner in this way.  I won't be setting dates in stone either.  Instead I'll schedule appointments with anyone that contacts me with interest in learning more about your own camera.  So, you have that beautiful, big camera and, obviously, a strong interest in photography, but just aren't quite sure where to go from here.  I'm here for you, friends!  And I'm flexible and willing to teach you.  

My fees for a beginner DSLR workshop are: 

You come to me (hang out with me at my home for up to 2 hours):  $50  

I come to you (I travel to meet you at a mutually agreed upon location, where we talk camera gear for up to 2 hours):  $75 

By now, you know the drill.  Contact me to schedule a workshop date.  And thanks!  

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Wedding Photography Contracts:

My friends, it seems that a new window of opportunity has opened for me at the preschool where I've been substitute teaching for the past 2 years.  They have invited me to teach in a couple of different classes on a regular, full time basis and I could not be happier.  I absolutely love the little ones and teaching them brings me such joy.  Although, as you can imagine, this commitment means I'll have less time for my portrait business.  As they say, when one door closes another opens.  I have decided that the best plan of action for me and my family is to slowly phase out my wedding photography work, since that takes up a great more of my time.  With that in mind, if you have interest in securing my photography services for your very special day, I will only be drawing up new wedding contracts until the end of August.  For each couple that signs with me or has already, your contracts will be held in good standing and upheld with the greatest esteem.  Any new contracts prior to August 31, 2015 will receive a complimentary $100 print credit to be used with your wedding gallery of images.  I hope this makes you smile.  I love weddings and am the eternal romantic at heart, and I hope you will consider me for your wedding photography needs.  Thanks!  

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Onto personal business:

Our Alanna performed in her ballet show this past Saturday.  We are proud as can be by her diligence, week in and week out for the past 10 months.  Here's the video of the girls' Sleeping Beauty ballet performance at the historical, ornate Santander Performing Arts Center in Reading.  Alanna is 3rd from the left, second row when first appearing on the stage.  I hope this makes you a smile big!! :)  It sure makes my heart smile!!! 

We adopted a kitten!  Oh goodness, she's a cute one, too!!!  Her name is "Lucy."  There were 3 kittens in the litter and we playfully named all of them for characters from C.S. Lewis' fantasy literature series, The Chronicles of Narnia.  There is the brave, righteous Lucy, the sweet, hospitable, Mr. Tumnus and the ever powerful, Aslan!  We had debated about taking 2 kittens, but then decided Lucy would be hands-full enough for us.  :)  Come on over to my Flickr photostream to see more of our Lucy love.  I update images there almost daily. --->  https://www.flickr.com/photos/barbliszcz/

At this point, I think I've packed this newsletter full of goodies.  

Joyous summer days and nights to you, friends and family!!   

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*The Summertime Family Special - 20x24 fine art wrapped canvas print offer is valid only for family's that purchase a full, 1 to 2 hour portrait session.  This offer does not apply to any fundraising types of events or winnings.  To view my rates for a full session, please visit my website:  www.my3girlsphotography.com/session  Please feel welcome to contact me with questions, and/or to schedule your portrait session.  Thanks very kindly.  

All in the Merry Month of May

May is coming to a close and my, oh my, what a FULL month it has been!  I know I'm not alone when I say next to December, May is the 2nd busiest month of the year.  May holds the most birthdays all year; Mother's Day; spring cleaning; gardening, planting time; end-of-the-school-year events, graduations, etc. etc...  I decided to highlight some of the many good things that happened this month with small vignettes for this blog post.  I miss hanging out here and have so much I want to say, but finding time to say it all is the challenge.   So now, I'm making time to show off some of the people I've had the privilege of photographing over the past month, with more of their unique stories to come in later posts.   Plus, some personal goodies, too.  Grab your coffee or tea, settle in and take a look-see.  

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I had an Inspiration Through Art session with this adorable family.  Their 10 month-old baby boy, "C" has had many health challenges since birth.  He'll need open heart surgery eventually.   Here he is with his daddy and (step)mommy and future baby sister to come!!  He was such a sweetheart throughout our session together; not crying once, and keeping a keen eye on all that was happening around him.  Such a beautiful boy and family.  "C" is another of my littlest heroes to admire!  Thank you for that honor. 

After my Inspiration session, I was off to a first birthday party!   I spent a fun-filled, celebratory afternoon with this dear family of friends whom I have photographed multiple times (lucky me - that's right!).  The party was great and little miss "L" was the star of the day!!  She was so cute in the grass.  She did not like the sensation of it, but she managed.  I just love first birthday parties and "L's" was spectacular!  And another outstanding cake was created by Kathleen's Konfections.  If you haven't tasted her delicious baked confections yet, you haven't fully lived.  Thanks again, my friends for a fabulous afternoon!  You spoil me!  :-)  Just look at this beauty!!!  Makes my heart melt. 

I photographed a wedding in New Cumberland, PA - near Harrisburg - Memorial Day weekend.  What a day it was!  I am still reveling in all the wonderful moments that took place on Stephie & Jimmy's big day with many firsts for me to experience.  The first time I witnessed the bride sing a love song to her groom; first time I witnessed the shoe game (fabulous, by the way! must check it out!); first time photographing a wedding while my oldest daughter, Chelsea worked as the couple's videographer!  Wow!  That's my girl!  She's off to Nashville, TN for the summer to work an internship, so it was great to spend time with her at Stephie & Jimmy's wedding!  We even managed to dance a couple of songs together!  Thanks for inspiring me, Chels!!  Fun times!!  And Congratulations to the happy couple!  You were super to work with - Thanks for everything, my new friends!!  

And speaking of firsts, I photographed this loving family consisting of two daddies and two beautiful daughters.  Confession time.  I have never had the privilege of knowing (let alone photographing) a same-sex, married couple with children.  I know.  I know.  Well, I do happen to live in rural Pennsylvania and, as far as population dynamics go, this isn't a common occurrence in our area - at least to my knowledge.  This family set the bar high.  They are my precedent for non-traditional marriage, and I can honestly say I am in awe of them and their life.  Their girls adore their dads.  What an amazing family!!  Thank you, my new friends for your generosity and for granting me the honor of being your photographer.  Your girls are radiant, healthy beauties so full of life and love.      

On the home front, I've been rearranging.  Plus, painting and preparing to move my office.  Alanna is ready to have her pink bedroom back.  She's tired of sharing a room with her little sister.  So, it's time for momma to move back to my old office - a bit smaller (okay, a lot smaller), but it sure is bright and pretty!  

We have been cleaning out, purging unused items.  We managed to have a very successful yard sale this month, hosted by my parents (thanks, Mom & Dad!).  We also donated to a worthy, charitable cause:  The Rudden Family Foundation, Inc. who serve the homeless or at risk of becoming homeless with donated household furnishings.  It felt great to unload and clean out.  Like a weight lifted from our shoulders.  Ahh!  So good.  So thankful.   

The garden is planted and doing great.  The lilacs were especially fragrant this year!  And they bloomed just in time for Mother's Day!  Just gorgeous!   I have more flower shots to offer on my Flickr photo stream.  Stop by and say "hi!" when you can.  I always appreciate hearing from my family and friends.  Click here to visit me > My 3 Girls Photography on Flickr <

Our baby isn't such a baby anymore.  Emilia graduated from preschool and will attend kindergarten in the fall.  Isn't she a beauty?  All of her teachers remarked at her dancing abilities and free spirit.  She won the classroom "Best Girl Artist" award.  I know she has so much ability and is uber talented.  I'm a proud mommy.   

I wrapped up my first school year as a preschool, pre-K building substitute teacher.  It was a joy!  I loved getting to know all of the children at Robeson Lutheran Preschool.  I look forward to helping out again in the future.   

June promises to slow down a bit - just a bit, though.  These May days were absolutely filled with much goodness - so many moments to treasure forever.  Thank you, my friends, for stopping by.  Here's to finding time to highlight all the gratitude and good in our lives.  My windows are rolled down!!     

Onward! 

Super Baby Celebrates Two | Inspiration Through Art

The last time I had the privilege of photographing this precious baby girl and her family, she was just 8 months young.  She sat up fairly well on her own, still developing those baby muscles of hers.   She has had multiple health issues as she began her life, and if you haven't previously read about her from our first Inspiration Through Art session together, you may want to visit that post by clicking >here<.   Baby "M" has not had the easiest start in life.  She was born missing a chromosome, diagnosed with DiGeorge Syndrome; on feeding tubes and eventually, she triumphed open heart surgery at the tender age of 13 months.  This super girl just celebrated her 2nd birthday and I am happy to report that she is thriving, growing by leaps and bounds!!  She's a miracle baby, if ever there was one!  I was astounded once again to be in her presence, to experience her joy, her gorgeous eyes, terrific smile and by how closely bonded this family is to one another!  They all shine brightly!!  "M" cannot help but thrive so beautifully since she is loved so well by her family. 

"M" isn't speaking yet, but is steadily learning sign language, which she taught to me also.  She not only can sit up very well by herself now, but she can run circles around me!!  She's a girl on the GO!  Nothing can stop this Super Toddler!  ;-)  

Here she is at our first session together… 

And, here she is at 2 years with her siblings: 

We celebrated her recent birthday with balloons and bubbles at Reading's own Goggle Works.  My many thanks and heartfelt gratitude go out to this wonderful, creatively rejuvenating location for allowing us the privilege.  What a lovely time we had!  Such fun!  

What a complete joy it was to spend time with this amazing family again.  "M" is quick on her feet, just as most 2 year-young toddlers are!   Thank you all again and again for honoring me with your trust, smiles and love.  I wish you much good health, prosperity, happiness and continued strengthened family love.  You should know that you enrich me and my life by sharing your gifts of the spirit, your story, and especially, your smiles with me.  I am humbled and grateful to you.  I hope to continue documenting your family's progress in future years… 

God's blessings and terrific love always be yours, my friends!!!

For families interested in learning more about Inspiration Through Art, a non-profit organization connecting professional photographers with families with a child(ren) suffering from a serious illness, or serious life altering disability, please contact www.inspirationthroughart.org to apply.  Be sure to request your preferred photographer to document and tell your story.  I would be honored to be your family's chosen professional.  Thank you kindly.  

The Family That Laughs Together …

I was granted another wonderfully fun day of photographing this especially endearing family.  Their trust in me is humbling, and I do hope they know how much I appreciate them.  It's a generous gift that they offer to me again and again.  As far as friends go, you couldn't find truer, better friends if you ever tried.  Our lives are entwined because of our children, and I count them all as blessings in my life.  It's remarkable to me how fortunate I am to have some of the best people in my life.  It shakes my soul to be awakened to this fact.  I am grateful.  Thank you, my friends. 

"K," I noticed something during our time together and then again when I looked through your images.  Your family completely adores you.  They light up when you are near.  It's true!  Yes, it is.  I witnessed it and will continue to as long as we are friends - hopefully forever.  :)  I love these people.  

images are copyrighted by law;  images may not be duplicated without consent, and are the property of Barbara Liszcz of © 2013 My 3 Girls Photography.  thank you.

Fall Mini-Portrait Sessions at Poole Forge

Autumn - It's the most colorful time of the year!!  The trees are in full glory.  The leaves are falling.  There's a crispness in the air.  It's time for pumpkins, apple cider, chrysanthemums, sweaters, boots and scarves.  And, it's time for your fall photos!  I've decided to choose one location this year for this very special limited offer:  Historic Poole Forge in Narvon, just off Rte 23.  Poole Forge is spectacular in the fall!   The historic covered bridge allows for a uniquely Pennsylvanian scene for your family's photographs.  Here is an excerpt taken directly from Poole Forge's website:  

Nestled into the hillside along the Conestoga creek, sets the once vibrant iron plantation called Poole Forge. The spectacular 1700’s Iron Masters mansion, paymasters house, tenant houses, lime kilns and covered bridge dating from 1859, create the perfect setting for special events. This beautiful and peaceful setting provides the perfect backdrop for outside weddings, family reunions in the pavilion, casual get togethers around the playground and [your family's photographs].  

Well, okay, I added that last part because it deserves to be there! ;) 

This special offer won't last long as my October sessions are limited.  These mini-portrait sessions go quick!  Be sure to contact me as soon as possible to secure your date and time!  I eagerly anticipate seeing your smiles and having some fun this fall with you and your family!!   Thank you kindly.  

View Larger Map  |  Get Directions  |  View Bird's Eye

To contact me by email, you may use this link:  my3girlsphotography@gmail.com

Or call me at:  610.856.1783

Cute Little Lemon Face

Someone from one of the photography groups (I can't for the life of me remember which one, or who it was!) that I belong to on Facebook posted a link of photos of babies and toddlers taking their first taste of a lemon.  I had a big smile on my face as I viewed those photos - thank you to the person that shared them and to the photographers that created them.  You may view the photos by clicking >here<.  I knew I wanted to try this also.  So, when my friends and I got together for their beautiful baby girl's 6 month photos I just had to ask them if it would be okay to try this idea!  They said "Sure!"  Yay!!  I had so much fun with their darling baby girl and her adventurous spirit this morning.  

Thank you my friends so much for sharing your precious baby with me and my lens.  She's a doll and you are doing such a great job with her.  I wish you all the best - always.  And know that I love you.

Take a look at these and just try NOT to smile while doing so!!  Double dare you!!  ;)-  

a quick note:  in image #6 - her Daddy was holding the lemon up in front of her - as you'll notice she didn't shrug it off… ;) 

  

Thank you again!  I hope you enjoyed and lost on my dare!!  ;) 

images are copyrighted by law;  images may not be duplicated without consent, and are the property of Barbara Liszcz of © My 3 Girls Photography.  thank you.

sneak peek: Family at Poole Forge

Family.  This one little word conveys such emotional power.  It's a bond of strength and blood, inheritance and traits, sisterhood and brotherhood, mothering, fathering, tears shed, laughter and overwhelming joy, and ties us to one another like nothing else.  Family.  We witness for one another life in progress and in process.  Yes, we are dynamic, fluid, growing, changing, stumbling, and constantly overcoming, learning.  Family can mean different things to different people.  But for this family, I'd say it means a wealth of memories and love, a closeness outwardly shown, yet even greater felt below the skin, running in their veins.  I felt so privileged to meet them and chat a bit about the upcoming changes soon to come.  Big adjustments and very exciting new adventures for these girls.  I wish you all the best in your travels and schooling.  Soak up every experience, have fun and work hard.  It will definitely pay off - it already has!  Thank you, "D" family, for your absolutely beautiful smiles!  I had a wonderful time getting to know you and for the opportunity to bask in your family's sunshine - it is infectious!  :)  

Many blessings, my new friends!!  Please enjoy your sneak peek.  

images are copyrighted by law;  images may not be duplicated without consent, and are the property of Barbara Liszcz of © My 3 Girls Photography.  thank you.