Cute as a Button

Father and Son

2011-12-14T18:18:00.000-08:00

I enjoyed chasing this little guy around all afternoon.

Some Serious Cuteness

2011-12-14T13:57:00.000-08:00

What's better than a newborn to love on? Welcome to the world Kasen!

Joyful Hearts {family Photography}

2011-10-30T12:55:00.000-07:00

Little J {newborn photography}

2011-10-30T12:16:00.000-07:00

Little J was born with a full head of red hair. What's not to love about him?

C family {Family Photography}

2011-10-30T11:51:00.000-07:00

A terrific fall day for some family pictures.....

April and Andy {Wedding Photography}

2011-10-30T11:04:00.000-07:00

Congratulations Andy and April!

Miss B {children's photography}

2011-10-30T10:57:00.001-07:00

I had the pleasure of photographing this sweet girl and her parents. She loved the park!

I'm an aunt :)

2011-09-03T19:48:00.000-07:00

My Sister Kelsey had a sweet baby boy named Colby. What's not to love about this tiniest addition?

A Tiny Treasure {newborn photography}

2011-09-03T19:34:00.000-07:00

Beautiful Family {Family Photography}

2011-09-03T19:17:00.000-07:00

Happy Family {Family Photography}

2011-09-03T18:49:00.000-07:00

I love these kids. Their fun little personalities make it easy to photograph them!

Baby Love {Baby Photography}

2011-09-03T18:17:00.000-07:00

3 month old sweetie. It wasn't too long ago that I did her mama's maternity pictures.

In expectation.....

2011-06-09T22:48:00.000-07:00

Baby Hayden is soon to make his appearance....

Aban Family {Family Photography}

2011-05-22T12:19:00.000-07:00

I always love having the opportunity to take pictures of new families. And what a beautiful family this is!

Mom To Be.....{Maternity Pictures}

2011-05-22T12:01:00.001-07:00

A casual maternity shoot for a gorgeous mom to be.

Frisbee Family {family photogaphy}

2010-12-19T20:18:00.000-08:00

This family has become dear friends to us over the years. And now I am so excited to welcome sweet baby Lauren into the world. Congratulations!

Cutsforth Family {family photography}

2010-12-19T19:50:00.000-08:00

I've always loved unique names and these two girls have some of my favorite: Mcallum and Campbell. I had fun photographing these two and getting to know their parents!

Baby Max {newborn photography}

2010-12-19T19:44:00.000-08:00

Baby Max has entered the world to join his big brother and sister. He is a sweet, cuddly little guy that is greatly adored. Especially by the birthplace crew!

Cordill Family {family photography}

2010-12-19T19:26:00.000-08:00

I always have so much fun with this family. Nate and Oliver tagged along for the shoot too, just so they could have a visit. Mama Kelsey is an awesome custom jewelry maker.....check out her accessories!

White Family {family photography}

2010-12-19T19:09:00.000-08:00

What can I say? I owe this family one for always using me for their photos. I couldn't ask for a better bunch though!

Keelyn {infant photography}

2010-12-19T18:54:00.000-08:00

Keelyn's head-full of fuzzy red hair is one of a kind. I enjoyed taking photos of this cutie and getting to know her parents all the same.

Baby Ireland {newborn photography}

2010-12-19T18:38:00.000-08:00

I love Ireland's name! I had so much fun getting to know her parents too during our shoot. Her mom came prepared with lots of cute ideas and Ireland even wore her mama's pearls.

Portraits {photography}

2010-12-19T18:13:00.000-08:00

I was so excited when I got the chance to do some pictures for these talented kids. Each of them have a really unique look and are all working in the talent industry. I'm glad I could help to update photos for their portfolios so keep an eye out for and have had their cute faces on commercials, and print adds. And don't forget about their talented mom!

Ruby at One {child photography}

2010-11-18T16:36:00.000-08:00

Little Ruby is an active one year old now! Some of her favorite activities include coming over and playing with Oliver. In fact, for a while there Oliver called every baby he saw "Ruby" because he is so in love with her.

Trevor and Elly {Wedding Photography}

2010-09-03T17:09:00.000-07:00

I really enjoyed photographing Trevor and Elly's wedding. It was a beautiful day and Trevor and Elly were so calm and relaxed. It helped make for a really enjoyable and special time. The wedding took place at Higgin's Hideaway.

Mia and Mason {Child Photographer}

2010-09-03T16:51:00.000-07:00

With a new sibling on the way for these two, life is about to become much more exciting! I wonder if the new arrival will have Mia's sweet freckles, or Mason's reddish hair, hmmm....
Thank you for letting me spend some time with your family and these two special kids!

Ashlynn {child photography}

2010-09-03T16:40:00.000-07:00

Ashylnn is now 2 years old and full of smiles and giggles. I had fun chasing her around!

Ella, Oliver, Noah {child photography}

2010-09-03T16:25:00.000-07:00

I have really enjoyed getting the chance to photograph these kids over the years. It has been fun to see them grow and change. And with three siblings now, the photo shoot does not lack in excitement or energy!

Andrea & Jeff {Wedding Photography}

2010-09-01T00:03:00.001-07:00

Andrea and Jeff were married at one of the most beautiful locations I've shot at. It was the second time Nate and I did a wedding at Bridal Veil Lake, and it couldn't be a more stunning place. Almost as stunning as this beautiful couple.

Bennett {child photography}

2010-08-31T23:47:00.000-07:00

Little Miss Bennett had her serious face on the day of the shoot! But something tells me she is normally full of smiles and giggles.....

Dean {Family Photography}

2010-08-31T23:08:00.000-07:00

Jill owns her own consulting business and you can contact her here. When Jill heard about our adoption fundraising she took it upon herself to round up more troops to help our cause. Thank you Jill! Dean is such a sweetie and so easy to photograph.

Lincoln {family photography}

2010-08-31T22:53:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure what is cuter: Lincoln's sweet baby blue eyes, thick awesome hair, or the chubby rolls all over his little body!

Jessica {Maternity pictures}

2010-08-31T22:41:00.000-07:00

You might remember Jessica and Coby's wedding pictures. Now they are just days away from expecting their first baby! Congratulations to you both, and Jess you are radiant!

2010-08-19T23:51:00.000-07:00

There is something pretty special about this family filled with girls! These cousins happen be nieces to my dear friend Kerry and it is easy to see why they light up the lives of all those around them. (Don't mind the blond haired boy who sneaked into a few of these pictures!)

Baby Ellie: Newborn photography

2010-08-19T23:41:00.000-07:00

Baby Ellie is dear to my heart. So is her family who happens to be close friends of ours. Oliver's first girlfriend is Elly's big sister Addison :)

Sweet Ellie is a beautiful baby that made her entrance into the world rather speedily. As time continues to go by quickly I know I will peak back at these newborn photos and remember her precious tininess.

boys

2010-08-19T23:17:00.001-07:00

The definition of a boy: "noise with some dirt on it."

What is not to love about energetic, playful boys? I enjoyed having the chance to snap a few pictures of these boys.

A family Affair

2010-06-17T20:16:00.000-07:00

We had a little grumpy boy on our hands the day of this shoot, but 2 1/2 year olds have a mind of their own! Thanks Amy for letting me capture a few of you and your kiddos!

Beautiful Amy.
I like the expressions on their faces in this one...

Ethan was in love with this stick!
A group photo wasn't really happening without a fight!

Sweet Noah

2010-05-22T23:04:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the world baby Noah. You may remember his siblings from previous posts. Enjoy :)

where I've been

2010-04-20T15:41:00.000-07:00

I've been MIA for a while.

If you haven't noticed, well I wouldn't be that surprised because I'm not sure who reads this anyhow!

But for those of you who do, or who happen to stumble upon this spot, let me explain.....

Our life is changing. Right before our eyes.

This is what we have been up to.

Please follow our journey.

A Lesson on Patience

2010-03-10T15:14:00.000-08:00

In college Nate asked me, “How are you so patient?” I was dumbfounded by the question because I never even considered myself a patient person. He was asking me in regards to a special needs little girl, R, who was near and dear to my heart.

I worked with R a few times a week during college. We would swim, play at the park, and find learning opportunities together. I grew to understand how to best meet R’s needs, even with her challenges that might have seemed overwhelming to some. I even traveled with her family, and grew to love all of them. I still think about them often.

It never occurred to me the amount of patience necessary to take care of R until Nate said something. I could sense the difficulty others had when a challenging situation arose with R, and knew where Nate’s question was coming from. I won’t say it was always easy taking care of R and meeting her needs, but it was for the most part effortless. I think I felt so much ease with caring for R because I knew she needed me, and I loved her and could give her more than what was required.

And then I was shaken.

The scariest time I had with R was one early summer evening. We were outside playing when all of a sudden R started to lean into me and then suddenly collapsed in my arms. Terrified, I ran as fast as possible cradling her 4 year old little body as best I could. I headed inside and administered her medication. R was having a seizure.

I prayed. I held her. I cried.

I doubted myself.

Did I give her seizure medicine fast enough? I should have carried it outside with me. I should have noticed impending signs sooner. I felt like it was my fault.

Her mom came quickly after I called her and took her to the hospital. R was going to be ok, thankfully. That moment will stay with me forever. I was shaken, and overwhelmed with the thought that something horrific like this could happen to R under my watch. I continued to care for R, and learned a great deal from this experience.

I learned why it may be easy for me to have patience for those who are in need and can’t help their circumstance, it is not easy for me to be patient with myself. My mistakes, my imperfections and flaws-all the things I am so hard on myself about-requires the same amount of patience.

I don’t know if R remembers our time together, or if I even made a real difference for her, but she left an imprint on my life as I continue to journey through what it means to be patient.

Ashlynn 18 mos {sneak peek}

2010-02-19T13:35:00.000-08:00

On the cusp of toddlerhood and no longer a baby lies the age of 18 months. I love this age. Always in constant motion, exploring all surroundings. Talking much more, and trying to be independent.

You might remember Ashlynn when she was a baby. Still with the same ice-blue eyes and sweet-dimpled smile, I think she made a new friend in Oliver.

2010-02-11T22:12:00.000-08:00

Oliver-
I can't believe you are 19 months old now. I never thought I would have such a curly-silvery blond-headed boy. But it suites you perfectly, and I am quite fond of your little golden locks.
You have the sweetest spirit, and kindest nature (for the most part). Spinning in circles is one of your favorite things to do. Trucks, planes, trains, cars, and elmo make you happy. You love to play with other kids, and love to tickle Bogie the dog. You love to wrestle with your dad, and help me put on my makeup. You want to be a part of everything and anything that is happening.
I feel so loved when you rest your head on my shoulder and let me hold you for a while.
You are so much fun, and life's greatest blessing.
Insurmountable joy you have brought to my life, and I wonder what I did before you were a part of it.
All my love and eskimo kisses!

Marie and Family {sneak peek}

2010-02-11T20:49:00.000-08:00

One of the things I love about Oregon is all of the tall fir trees, and open country side. The smell of a crisp rainy day is something I try to remind myself to appreciate, even when I'm tired from all of the rain 9 months a year. One day I wouldn't mind living on an few acres and enjoying the wide open spaces. That is why I really enjoyed taking pictures at Marie's property.

Marie is one of my favorite, energetic nurses to work with. I always feel reassured when she is around with her NICU experience. It was fun to visit her property and take some photos of her siblings along with a few with her hubby.

Adventures in Decorating {small change}

2010-02-09T16:52:00.000-08:00

Edit: Oceanfront isn't looking so bold against my blog background, but you get the idea.....a teal, turquoise type color.

Benjamin Moore "oceanfront" is my new love. Yes, it is a bit bold, but paired with chocolate brown, crisp white, and a pop of red has made me fall head over heels. Oceanfront, is my new "small change".....a welcome to color in my life!

A new site to spend wasteful hours on is www.roomzaar.com. It is my new obsession. A voyeuristic peek into how other people decorate their homes. In other words, my kinda online fun!

It has caused me to think about my home, and what changes I want to make. I made the decision to "live in it a little while" before I jumped into painting. I think Oceanfront is my first try at some color in this beige-blah home. What do you think?

Las Vegas Fever

2010-02-09T16:12:00.000-08:00

I've been planning for sometime to take the RNC exam and took the opportunity to do so with some nursing friends. The RNC title is a certificate of specialty in obstetrical nursing. We traveled to Las Vegas, took an intensive course, and then the RNC exam. Nate tagged along with me, and we left Oliver for the first time! We were hoping to make it somewhat of a vacation too, but I can't say it was much of that. It was for 4 days, and I missed my little guy, but was happy to be distracted with the nursing course that consumed most of my time.

I came home to a sick boy, though. He started running a fever that night our flight got in, and has continued on. This is going on four days of a pretty high fever. We made a trip to the emergency room the other night when his fever spiked to 103.2 while on Tylenol.

You can tell Oliver isn't feeling well because all he can do is lay on me. That's all he desires to do (except watch Elmo). Pretty out of character for a boy who is non-stop go-go-go. This is the part I am really enjoying though, cuddling all day.

Celebrate

2010-01-26T10:13:00.000-08:00

We recently celebrated my mom's 29th birthday (can you believe we are only a year apart in age?). It was fun to have the family all together for dinner. Oliver entertained us by climbing into a gift bag while my dad dragged him all over the house. We ate Chinese, and watched the Blazers lose in overtime, but all in all, it was a fun evening. (Aside from the part where my dad made my mom a birthday card and wrote her age a year older than she was actually turning on accident.....OOPS).

There isn't a day that goes by that makes me realize how fortunate I am to have a mommy like I do. I really have always idealized her, and wanted to be just like her. Even in the days when she wore bright-blue eyeshadow and poofy bangs, I wanted to look like her. I hope that my children will think of me in the same way I think of her....devoted, self-less, and always giving. Love you Woman!

small change: What's for Dinner?

2010-01-25T10:59:00.001-08:00

Before the days of nursing school, working as a night shift RN, pursuing continuing education aspirations, and then onto motherhood lived a girl who once enjoyed cooking. Much of this might have been spurred by my newlywedness ambition, and making Nate think he really "married up." Somewhere along the way, however, life kicked into overdrive and my passion for cooking became passionate-less.

Part of this reason might have been living in a home with a kitchen I dreaded (a stove that worked part-time and unpredictably), along with not very much work room to prep. Most of the reasoning was the thought of having one more thing on my plate to think about at the end of the day. So I got lazy.
And then we moved....and THIS is my kitchen!

And guess what? The magic is back. I am a cooking machine. My first week in the kitchen I busted out 5 casseroles and threw them in the freezer. I've never even made a casserole before, but I was on a mission.

Yes, this post might be somewhat inspired by my recent viewing of Julie&Julia and my secret desire to have a successful blog that people actually read. But, none-the-less here it is.

Check out this recipe, it sounds like one I might try.

Entertaining Ideas at PointClickHome.com – Pineapple-and-Coconut Chicken Curry Recipe

Posted using ShareThis

Miles of Sweetness {Babies}

2010-01-15T16:11:00.000-08:00

There isn't anything much sweeter than a sleeping newborn, especially this one! His name is Miles, and lucky for him he was born to two great parents (Jeff and Jaimee) that I know treasure him. It was easy to see how much this couple loves each other, and now this little angel. I was able to be Jeff and Jaimee's wedding photographer, and then reconnect with them in the hospital when they had Miles. It was such a pleasure taking pictures of their first baby boy, Miles.

Baby Brandon

2010-01-12T22:19:00.000-08:00

Please pray for baby Brandon King, the son of Nate's coworker. He was born 20 days after his due date and as a result, suffered meconium aspiration. He has been in the NICU at Emmanuel Hospital since his birth. I can't even imagine what Baby Brandon and his family are going through, but am praying for his full healing. For updates visit http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/brandonking

My God spoils me.

2010-01-12T10:20:00.000-08:00

Ok, I get the blog slacker award. But to my credit, life has been a little hectic. We sold our home, packed and moved in with my parents over the holidays while awaiting to move into our NEW HOME. Now the dust is settling and we are getting everything together.

Nate started a new job a few months back (same company, different building), and during this transition time we thought that it might be the right timing for a move, too. You know, to throw some added stress into the loop.

Well, I'm glad we did. There were times of headache during this whole process, but it was worth it in the end. I feel so lucky that things went as smoothly as they did, and we were able to sell and buy within a 4 month period. Not too shabby with the current market slump. A perk of the slump though is we were able to get a steal on our new home. We bought it for 85K LESS than it was sold for 1 year prior!

Needless to say, I am so richly blessed to live in this new home, in a wonderful neighborhood and school district for Oliver. The major thing I have taken away from this whole process is that God spoils me beyond any expectation I could ever imagine. (Not that I should have any expectations!) I am so thankful for the gifts I have been given, but more importantly for the people I have around me that abundantly fulfill and influence my life.

I'll post some pictures soon, including some of the bargains I have gotten to furnish this new place.

Family portraits {sneak peak}

2009-11-10T15:00:00.000-08:00

I love fall! Cool, crisp autumn days are my favorite. Especially when the sun is peeking out and there is are no rainclouds in sight! I don't think it could get much better than that. I was lucky enough to take photos of a great family on a day just like this. The only thing lacking was a cup of chai tea :)

newborn {sneak peak}

2009-10-18T23:16:00.000-07:00

Ahhh, newborns. I just love them. Especially this precious baby girl. It is my pleasure to introduce baby Ruby to you. She is a special angel to me because she belongs to a couple who is near and dear to my heart. Her mama asked me to be her labor and delivery nurse, which I was so thrilled about. And then to top it off, I had the honor of actually delivering baby Ruby into my own hands! It was amazing! Needless to say, this is one beautiful girl who I just adore.

Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-10T09:42:00.000-07:00

Here are some photos of our recent trip to the pumpkin patch. Oliver had a great time at the petting zoo, and loved picking up pumpkins.

It is so fun to see Oliver discover new things. The pumpkins we brought home with us are visited every day by Oliver. He loves rolling them off the front porch and stands by the front door every morning asking to go see them.

He has been pretty gabby lately trying to form words. He continues to sign a lot too, but is mostly verbal. His temper is coming out a little more and more, and I'm not really looking forward to the full on temper tamtrums that will be in his near future.

At his 15-month check-up he weighed 22.5 pounds, which means he gained 3+ pounds from his 12 month checkup! Holy cow!

Cable Bliss

2009-10-03T12:29:00.001-07:00

It has been a couple years since Nate and I have had cable television. Mostly because we were both in school for some time and also working full-time, so it seemed silly to pay for it when we both never had time to enjoy it. Then, Oliver came along, and he is a little time-consuming (grin).

All the sudden, Nate came home and told me he ordered cable. I think he mainly did it because we didn't get season tickets to the Beavers this year and he wanted to make sure he could watch the games. I have to admit, that on my days off when I am still wide awake at 3am, a little cable t.v. has been pretty awesome.

But....it has lead to an obsession. An obsession with a little channel called HGTV.

I can't stop watching her

Or him

Or her

Yes, I can spend hours in furniture stores, or at an antique mall mulling over decorative details. And these three designers are my inspiration :)

What can I say, they just get me and my addiction to all things pretty to look at and live in. I feel like they are my friends. (Should I admit that? Sometimes it gets a little lonely at the wee hours of the morning).

Am I the only one?

Love

2009-09-22T10:08:00.000-07:00

Our church is doing a series on Love and Relationships. And so far, well.....it has me thinking.

BIG TIME.

We are only part way into the series and I feel like the hard edges of my heart are softening up a bit. It is a good thing. Last weeks message gave me a chance to think about how I treat others, or view them. I totally admit that there are times when I am frustrated, irritated, annoyed, hurt, or calloused at others. It happens at work, home, driving on the freeway. It is everywhere. I may not always show it, but I get angry and a little bitter sometimes inside. If I feel disrespected, it is hard for me to respect and love others back.

My husband rarely sees the best side of me. I love to blame my grumpiness on lack of sleep and having to work nights. But I don't want to be that person, the one who is too tired to live life, but more importantly live a life filled with love. I want to be busting at the seems with love, and give it freely and unconditionally.

A friend of mine was sharing with me her goal of praying everyday to help her to see her spouse (and others) the way God sees us. Can you imagine? Praying everyday that I would view Nate and treat him the way God seems him? Obviously, I love Nate deeply! But, do I always show it?

If I take an honest look, the answer is-no.

Ouch.

So, this is something I'm working on. Here is a bit more to consider:

What if you could stand at the end of your life and look back

What did you acquire?

What goals did you accomplish?

What dreams did you achieve?

What if you...

Acquired great things

Accomplished great goals

And achieved great dreams

But what if none of it mattered?

That’s what a life void of love looks like

Jesus said:

That in all of life one thing matters most: LOVE

You may have a busy life

An ordered life

A balanced life

A respected life

An influential life

But without love….it is a wasted life.

So…do you love?

Do you love as God loves you?

Do you love everyone as God loves you?

Friends,

classmates,

supervisor,

employees,

children,

spouse,

neighbors,

competition?

Your enemies?

There is only one way to love the way God loves you

Draw from the source of love.

Here's the key to loving others:

Begin to grasp Gods love for you

Lewis Family {Sneak Peak}

2009-09-21T10:05:00.000-07:00

A bright sunny day was a good excuse to get out and do some photos for a co-worker of mine and her sweet family. I don't know how she manages it, but she is doing a great job at balancing nursing school, work, and a 4 year old and 6 year old. It was not long ago I was busy having to study, spend long hours at clinicals, and manage to work a little. And Jen is doing it all the while with her two young kids! I am truly amazed.

This next one cracks me up because here are two parents trying to have a romantic moment, but wait, the kids are running around like crazy, both of them with sticks! A moment of REAL LIFE.

Can you tell who got a little grumpy??

Eve sneak peak: Newborn

2009-09-02T11:34:00.000-07:00

I feel so blessed to have the opportunity to take so many baby pictures for people lately. It has been such a joy watching them grow and change.

The other day I had the chance to meet sweet baby Eve who is only 3 weeks old. The fuzzy hair, perfect lips, baby smell, tiny fingers and toes......makes me get the baby bug! (Okay, okay, enough of that!)

Eve is going to be one talented little girl with the parents she has! She already has the sweet, quiet disposition of her mama, and it will be neat to see how music plays a role in her future because her dad is an awesome worship leader at our church. Hope you enjoy these!

Aidan sneak peek: Babies

2009-09-02T10:03:00.000-07:00

Sweet Aidan is 9 months now. I remember taking his newborn baby photos and it always amazes me how much babies can change in a matter of months. Of course he still has killer blue eyes, and a sweet smile......even though he wanted to be serious for most of his photos.

He can't help that he is beautiful

2009-09-01T21:16:00.001-07:00

DAW_1844, originally uploaded by kdawson1.

Today getting breakfast at Bob's Red Mill:

Lady: That is the prettiest little girl ever. Those curls!
Me: Oh, thank you. He's a boy, actually.
Lady: What's your name sweet heart? Hank, look at her cheeks, oh and her eyelashes!
Me: Uhhhh, (nervous, weird laugh). HIS name is Oliver. HE is almost 14 months.
Lady: They just don't make girls any cuter than that.
Oliver: Ahhhhhh, Noooooooooooo! (Louder than you ever imagined.)

What can I say? Guess he knows he ain't a chick.

Sara: Maternity Sneak Peak

2009-08-31T08:48:00.000-07:00

I am so excited for Sara to have her first baby, a little girl due in about a month. I'm especially excited because she will be delivering where I work, and hopefully I will get to be there {grin}.

The last month or so was the most exciting part of pregnancy for me, the anticipation, smiles from strangers, and watching and feeling the baby move around inside. Obviously I love pregnant women, and have always been very captivated by pregnancy. It is such a miraculous process and a time in my life where I felt I grew closer to God, and in awe of the whole experience.

I also think that a woman is her most beautiful in pregnancy, and it is easy to see that in Sara. Thank you Sara, for letting me capture such a special time in your life. You and Cameron are going to be great parents. I love you!

Coming Soon

2009-08-28T23:23:00.000-07:00

Sara's maternity pics are "coming soon."
Just like that little peanut!

Better in Texas?

2009-08-28T23:03:00.000-07:00

Oh dear Texas

How glad I am to be home. It was SO GOOD to see family, even if it was for a short bit. This trip reminds me of why Oregon is my favorite place though.

The highlights of my trip:
-stifling heat
-Oliver acting like a hellian
-Pay by the hour hotel?
-A hypodermic needle found in a hotel room!
-Hot water not working after car accident outside of hotel knocked out the gas line. Did I mention the guy in the accident booked it on foot?
-LARGE insects
-Baby drinking soda out of her baby bottle.

Okay, okay, those aren't the highlights, those are the lower-lights. I had lots of fun, don't worry.
Here are some pics.

Home blog

2009-08-23T00:45:00.000-07:00

Our realtor created this site that lists all the current details about our home. It is updated frequently so check it out and pass it along to your friends who might be interested. Thanks!

Cute Kiddo sneak peak

2009-08-23T00:18:00.000-07:00

We challenged the rain which appeared out of nowhere (can I really say that about Oregon?). I've loved these super cute kids for a few years now and was happy to capture a couple pictures of them, rain or shine.

Beach

2009-08-22T22:45:00.000-07:00

Wow, what a great time we had relaxing at the beach. We went with some good friends from church we have grown close to over the past year. The boys spent their time fishing, while us girls went on stroller walks, shopping, and chatted. It was a much needed break and we have decided to make in an annual retreat! Here are some photos highlighting our fun.

a few more.....

2009-08-14T09:39:00.000-07:00

Wanted to post a few more from Coby and Jessica's wedding. I've been meaning to get a few more up, but life has thrown me a curve ball. Oliver was sick, then better, then REALLY SICK with Croup. Nate and I both battled a nasty GI bug, and then we were off to the beach for a long awaited vacation away. Mixed in there have been a few more photo shoots. Plus, bright and early tomorrow we leave for a family reunion in Austin, TX.
Coby and Jessica thank you for sharing such a special day with Nate and I. We were so happy to be a part of it. Wishing you the best!

For Sale

2009-08-11T17:57:00.000-07:00

Our house is officially on the market. That's right, we are moving! (Well, hopefully). Now seems like a great time to buy, and with Nate's new job, the timing feels right. But, it is bittersweet.

We have loved this little house. Every square inch has been painted, sanded, tiled, updated. It has been a labor of love. I have learned so much about myself, and about Nate in all of these remodeling projects. There have been disagreements, tears, laughter, fun, cuts and bruises, all within the walls of this home.

I find myself becoming attached to this place. After all, it is our first home. It represents a huge step on our lives, a place where I feel like I became a "real" adult. A place where I have nestled into my role as mommy.

Not to get too sappy, but I have to remind myself that it isn't the house that makes this place so special. It is the people in it and the memories we are creating. Someone new will live in this place and make it their own, just like we have.

The idea of moving is exciting and stressful at the same time, all jumbled up into the pit of my stomach. Thankfully I have level-headed Nate to remind me (like he did last night) that it will all happen in God's perfect timing. Wish us luck!

Wedding sneak peak

2009-08-06T17:51:00.000-07:00

Jesse and Coby were married at the Columbia Edgewater Golf Course. What a beautiful day it was, and what a gorgeous bride I might add!

Small Change: One car family

2009-07-23T08:59:00.000-07:00

Okay, this may not be considered a 'small change,' but rather a 'big change.'

Recently, Nate and I went from a two car family, to a one car family. Since I am still working graveyard shift and he works days, one car seemed to make sense for us, and was really working out.

And then.....

Nate got a new job. He started this past week at a new building in Portland (with the same company). Let's just say he no longer has a 5 minute commute. We are still making this one car thing work, but it leaves us scrambling in the mornings and evenings when we are each leaving for our work shift.

But I love days like today.....I have the day off from work. Nate always says how he feels sorry for me because I don't have a car anymore and can't go anywhere. What he doesn't know is how much I have grown to be thankful for that! It might sound like a mundane life to stay at home and catch up on laundry, dishes, and housework, but I need this time at home to focus on all of that stuff because it is my only chance to.

Plus, Oliver and I go all over the place with no car. Everyday I have off, we go to the park, and the local coffee shop where there is the cutest play area for him to run around in. I'm able to steal a chapter or two out of my book too, during this time. And it gives me a chance to get some fresh summer air and a walk in.

My only real complaint about having one car is the morning and evening scramble when we both have to work. Needless to say we are still working the kinks out, and a new routine will soon fall into place for us.

The biggest surprise about only having one vehicle is the quality time it affords us. It isn't very often we get to sit down and eat dinner as a family together for quality time (does anybody do that anymore, anyways?). Even the 10 extra minutes Nate and I spend in the car together on our way to drop me off at work has given us a chance to "catch up," and have some great conversations, and reconnect as a family again. Even with the big "scramble" having one ride has been a blessing in disguise in more ways than one.

This and That

2009-07-20T14:33:00.000-07:00

Nate and I have always been fans of finding old furniture pieces and using them in our home. I remember when we were newly married, I saw an old coffee table on the side of the road. (Not a too uncommon occurrence in Corvallis). I jumped at the opportunity to hall the incredibly heavy piece home and "paint" it to match our decor.

It was a nasty sea foam color, and I began the process of scraping off the old color, sanding it down, and repainting with a slick black color. I had no idea what kind of a mess I was getting myself into! After many hours of hard labor, it sat in our living room apartment with pride.

And then there was the 8 dollar stereo Nate scored at a thrift store. This thing is a huge retro piece that would work well in many homes these days, after we stained it a dark walnut color. (The puke greenish tone it had wasn't really working out). It is made of heavy wood and sits on 4 perfect thin legs. The stereo and record player work great. We even hook our ipod up to it. I'll probably hang onto this one forever.

Which brings me to tell you about my new favorite store, right down town in Oregon City. It is called This and That. I bought this awesome pink dresser with mirror for my sister Katie's graduation gift. And I've bought a few other things.....a massive wooden filing cabinet, new chair, and I have my eye on a vintage children's rocking chair to use in pictures.

Check this place out! You won't be disappointed!

Baby Ashlynn: Sneak Peek

2009-07-18T21:29:00.000-07:00

Who can resist little Ashlynn's smile? I had so much fun capturing this 'almost one year old.' I think her smile is contagious (and genetic) because her mom and grandma have the same one. And her killer blue eyes are stunningly framed by these sweet little perfect eyelashes. She is nothing short of a little gem.

Harries Family

2009-07-18T10:14:00.000-07:00

I felt like I was photographing Barbie and Ken and their two kids. This family is so beautiful! I've grown up with mama Michelle, and it is so fun to see how her life has unfolded. Her and Adam have been married 3 years and have two precious boys now. Hudson is a fun little toddler that is curious and on the go. And sweet baby Austin has a head full of red hair and the cutest little face. I'm wishing you many blessings as your family starts on a new adventure together in California.

Melissa and Jesse: Wedding Sneak Peak

2009-07-11T21:13:00.000-07:00

This fun couple had their wedding on the fourth of July. Boy was it a HOT day surrounded by a great group of family and friends. The wedding took place at a Christmas tree farm with lots of "old country" backdrops and theme. Wishing you both a lifetime of happiness filled with lots of Love. Hope you enjoy these.

Oliver turns one.

2009-07-07T20:37:00.001-07:00

This past week has been a bittersweet one for me. I was holding back tears Friday on Oliver's first birthday. The day was no different for him other than a house full of people, gobs of presents, and his first taste, I mean fistful, of chocolate cake. But it was a very different day for me because my baby is well, one. And it snuck up on me and nearly knocked the wind out of me.

Yes, I am fully aware that I may be one of those mom's who say when asked how old their child is "oh he's 34 months." It may be ridiculous but well, he will always be my little baby.

Oliver had his one year checkup so here are the stats:

19lbs 12oz, which put him up into the 10th percentile (which is a big jump for him).

29.25 inches, which puts him in the 33rd percentile.

I hope the next year doesn't go by this fast. Only 17 more years and he is off to college! Ahhhh!

Question of the Day

2009-06-29T22:22:00.000-07:00

I caved and was talked into the new iphone. This is really a silly thing for me to have because anyone who knows me knows I'm not the most techy person. Nate really wanted one, and we got a 24% discount through my work if the plan was under my name. And well, it is kinda fun to have one, even though I don't really know what I'm doing with it quite yet.

One feature I found on the "apps store" of the iphone is a little ditty called "question of the day." I am loving this because it makes me think. I even asked my mom "a question" off of it and learned something new about her. Nate and I sat down for dinner and I railed off some questions for him to answer too. It is a pretty neat.

Here is my question of the day:

What is the best thing you've ever gotten that didn't cost anything?

Now most of you are thinking I will answer 'Oliver.' But Oliver cost me $3000 just to get pregnant with him! So lets face it, he wasn't exactly a freeby....

My real answer is Grace. It is something I always was familiar with growing up in church, but something I really understood until I was in my young-adult years. (Note: Am I still a young adult? When do I become a plain old adult? Anybody know?).

Yep, Grace. Specifically God's Grace to humankind, the gift of undeserved love, and salvation. This is something so simple really....God loves us and we are all sinners and don't deserve the love he gave by sending his son Jesus to die for us.

Grace is a wonderful gift I am so thankful to have.

What I'm reading

2009-06-29T21:58:00.000-07:00

I just finished my first Jodi Picoult book called The Pact, and am onto my second called My sister's keeper. So far, so good. I have to say that reading has taken a backseat in my life since I've become a mommy. Before I embarked on a Jodi Picoult obsession I read Lovely Bones, and of course my dad's novel On the Banks of the Jordan. Looking for some good reads, so send any ideas my way!

note: all of these great books can be found new and used at amazon.com!

Baby dedication

2009-06-26T15:47:00.000-07:00

Oliver had his baby dedication a couple of weeks ago. ( Willamette Christian Church )
It was extra special because Nate's parents, and my mom, sister Kelsey and brother-in-law Josh, were all able to make it. The life verse Nate and I chose for Oliver is:

Jeremiah 29:11 (New International Version)

¹¹ For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Ella and Oliver sneak peak: Babies and Kids

2009-06-26T14:56:00.000-07:00

I had so much fun taking pictures of Ella and her little brother Oliver. Ella is probably the most precocious little girl I have ever known, and I always have so much fun with her. And it is fun to see how much baby Oliver has changed since Christmas. It is easy to see where those two kids get their pretty little faces from in mama Julie. Ok, a lot of pictures here. Enjoy.

kim and Stefan: Wedding

2009-06-16T22:57:00.001-07:00

Nate and I had the pleasure of photographing Kim and Stefan's wedding. It was a wonderful day filled with love, two families joining together, and lots of Mexican food, music and dancing. My favorite part of the ceremony was how each of their 5 children received a ring as a symbol of their two separate families coming together. It was a beautiful day for a really neat couple. Thank you Kim and Stefan for letting us be a part of it.

Sophia-Glamour Girl

2009-06-16T22:30:00.000-07:00

Sophia is a natural and gets her photogenic looks from mommy Sabrina. I love how Sophia is working the fuzzy hoodie-a true glamour girl!

Aidan's Family

2009-06-16T22:16:00.001-07:00

Sweet little Aidan and his parents. It is easy to see how much this little guy is loved. He is pretty much the spitting image of his papa, but still has the twinkle of his mama's jet blue eyes.

hello

2009-06-09T10:24:00.001-07:00

So much to catch up on, so little time!

I haven't forgotten about you blog readers, I've just been caught up in living life. And part of that has been chasing (a now walking) Oliver! I was shocked when he took his first steps at 10 1/2 months and he hasn't looked back since. He walks like a drunken sailor-a little wobbly with his arms back and belly out.

He is so curious and interested in everything and it is so much fun to watch him discover. Part of his discoveries include the water. We have the pool up and running and Oliver took his first dip and seemed to have a lot of fun.

We are thinking about selling our home and have been busy doing some repairs/updating. It is funny how I spend all the time and money on the house just to SELL it. We just put granite and new appliances in the kitchen and it makes me want to STAY here!

I will plan on making time to keep you all posted on our little family better!

2009-04-29T18:25:00.000-07:00

Nate had his gallbladder removed this week and it went very well. The hospital called us to see if he could come in earlier than scheduled, so his surgery ended up happening 3 hours earlier than we planned. Everything went great so we were able to go home that evening. He is pretty sore, but doing well.

Taking care of him this week along with Oliver has pretty much drained me! Luckily, Nate's mom dropped by some dinner for us one night (thank you!), and my mom went in on a xbox 360 for him (so his whining has been kept to a minimum).

I leave you with a picture of a gallbladder. RIP Nate's gallbladder...you won't be missed!

family pics

2009-04-22T11:16:00.001-07:00

The weather has been so great lately, I love it! We took advantage and had some family pictures done. It was extra special because our photography friend Amberly did them, and we just love them. Check out her blog for more pics.

Sabrina (photos)

2009-04-22T10:45:00.000-07:00

Sabrina is not only a talented RN whom I love working with, but also an actress. I had a chance to take some head shots for her portfolio, and had so much fun. She is stunning, but what really compliments her beauty is her awesome personality and contagious smile. I just love her!

doctor visits

2009-04-22T10:04:00.000-07:00

Oliver's 9 month checkup was a couple weeks ago. He weighed in at 17 lbs 2 oz and 27 1/2 inches tall. He was busy wiggling all over the place, and it was hard to get him to sit still for the appointment. His weight put him in the 5th percentile for his age, but the pediatrician said he is no longer worried about Oliver's size because he has always trended on the small side even after I started to supplement with a little formula. He also mentioned that Oliver is probably burning way more calories than other babies his age because he is so "busy" and active.

I brought Nate with me to Oliver's checkup to have the doctor look at this interesting rash Nate was starting to get along his stomach. Turns out to be shingles (ouch!). We have been laying low around here keeping Oliver away from other babies and the church nursery in case he has the chickenpox virus. (Shingles is part of the chickenpox family).

Along with the shingles, Nate made a visit to the ER that week because of a gallbladder attack. He has to have surgery this Monday to have it removed. My poor husband! So between meeting with the surgeon and other doctors appointments we have been pretty preoccupied.

Tulip Festival Fun

2009-04-17T01:15:00.001-07:00

One last post before I go to bed, because tomorrow I have A LOTTA stuff to do!

These are pictures of our little outing to the tulip festival. It was very warm and sunny out, but we had fun.

The Beast

2009-04-16T23:14:00.000-07:00

I want to be someone who loves to garden, but well, just can't seem to get into it. In fact, much to our neighbors dismay we let our yard work go a little. Okay, maybe we just don't really do it at all.
But a couple weekends ago, Nate was feeling extremely ambitious and decided to start working on this really overgrown hedge in our backyard. It amazed me how huge this thing was. I snapped a couple pictures to document his attempt at yard work.
I'll let you know if he ever finishes it.....

First photo, Oliver and I showing our support. (Yes I'm still in my pajamas).

And now, pictures of The Beast a.k.a the hedge.

Ahh, The Beast is eating Nate. Can you see him nearly engulfed by the branches?

And Nate walking, just so you can get an idea exactly how overgrown this thing really is.

To those of you who are interested, I am willing to pay by the hour for yard work help, and I make a mean iced tea when you are thirsty :)

sweet baby blues

2009-04-16T22:59:00.000-07:00

Sweet blue-eyed Abby is 8 months old now.

The Oregon weather was cooperating so today we took advantage.

She is so cute in her little wagon!

I just love that little face.

What is in a name?

2009-04-07T11:25:00.000-07:00

I am often surprised at people's reaction when they ask me, "What is his name?"
It ranges from "so cute" to "you named him Oliver?" This is simply why I chose not to share our child's name with anyone until he had entered the world. I did however, test it out on the general public before I had him. And well, it infuriated me most of the time.

We really weren't sure what we were going to name him until we met him. We had two names in mind (and no I'm not telling what the other was). Nate came home with the name one day and to be honest, it took me a little while to warm up to it. I didn't know any "Olivers," and thought 3-syllables was a mouthful to say. Obviously, I began to love it as much as Nate by the time he was born.

Which brings me to one infuriating story from me "testing his name out."

One day I decided to buy some letters to hang in his nursery a couple days before he was born. I threw the scrambled letters on the counter as the women began to check me out. She had what I call a"smokers-cough," and coughed with her mouth open into the air. I was thankful for the three feet of distance between us, but I admit that I held my breath for a little while afterwards hoping not to inhale her coughing particles. This was the beginning of my annoyance of her.

"What's this spell," she asked. "Love?"

"No, it spells Oliver," I said.

"Oliver-who's Oliver?" She managed to say this phrase with a bit of disgust in her voice. As if she knew the answer to her question already.

"He's my soon-to-be son," I said pointing to my round belly.

"You are going to name that sweet baby Oliver? How could you do that?"

Note: For those of you who want to comment to a 9 months pregnant woman about anything, be sure to make it positive. Otherwise you can ruin her entire day, week, or month of pregnancy.

"I mean," she continued, "that must be a family name or something for you to come up with Oliver."

Me, a bit dumbfounded by her bluntness, "my husband came up with it."

She handed me my letters as I finished checking out. I started to fume.

'Smoker cough into the air lady' turned to the next person in line and said, "can you believe she would name her baby that?"

I slammed the door on the way out of the store......okay, that part I made up, but I wanted to slam the door if it would have let me.

And said to myself, " I will name my baby whatever I want, and could care less what ANYONE ELSE thinks."

What is in a name? Nobody else's business is what's in a name. Okay, there I said it.

The end.

8 months

2009-04-05T12:45:00.000-07:00

Eight months have come and gone for Oliver. I will leave you with a picture of him standing by the fireplace. Sounds safe, I know. (Don't worry I am spotting him!)

He got his first tooth this month, and starting eating three meals a day. He is loving all sorts of food including avocado, banana, oatmeal, sweet potato, and cucumber with rice vinegar (-OK that last one is a long story).

Of course he is still a crawling maniac (and does so with perfect technique I might add!), and loves to chase the dog around the house. He now stands by the couch one handed, and lets go for a quick second and then falls. This kid will be walking in no time!

Meet the Parents

2009-04-04T11:05:00.000-07:00

First impressions. They are important and something we tend to think back and remember about people. I think we all agree that we want to make the best first impression. I am reminded of when my husband Nate met my family for the first time and how he really left an impression.

He came over to have dinner with them (at the ripe old age of almost 19). He brought his charm, good looks, killer smile and even his guitar. He was going to win them over. He sang a little for my family and the conversation flowed pretty easy. No awkward pauses, or strange nuances to speak of, until.......

Nate politely excused himself and retreated to the bathroom upstairs. He was gone a little while, but nobody really seemed to notice. When he returned he seemed a littler flustered, maybe nervous. I assumed it was the pressure of having to "meet the parents." But the truth of the matter is the movie "Meet The Parents" took a real life twist on what had happened to poor Nate, on the very night of meeting my family for the first time.

Of course we think back on it now and can all laugh. But the sheer embarrassment Nate had to endure the night he met my family surprises me that he even ever talked to me again! You see, Nate had used the restroom upstairs, and well, clogged it. He clogged it so bad that the overflow started to go through the vent and down into the downstairs bathroom. I think it was my sister who noticed something wasn't right in the downstairs bathroom-and then the cat was out of the bag.

Poor Nate. And then, my poor Dad. They both had to go upstairs and plunge the toilet together. Not exactly the male bonding experience I was hoping the two would have.

I don't know what went on in that bathroom that night, and Nate hasn't really talked much about it since. I do know that my parents had to buy an entirely new toilet because he well, killed that one I guess. He did manage however, to make a lasting impression on my family (despite the toilet debacle).

Now at family dinners or holidays Nate always seems to use the downstairs bathroom. And manages to laugh now when we reminisce about his first time meeting the parents.

Post by numbers

2009-03-26T09:18:00.000-07:00

1-Cup of coffee a day, even when I feel like I need 3 or 4.
2-hours of crying this week after caring for a family that lost their sweet baby.
3-Days off work this weekend after I get through tonight!
4-Hours of sleep I typically get in a row before Oliver wakes me up.
5-Times a day or so, I nurse Oliver.
6-0'clock dinner time.
7-Pounds is the name of the next movie I want to watch.
8-is usually my bedtime-either at night or in the morning depending on work schedule.
9-years together with Nate (almost).
10-minute mile today (sad I know!)

Go Girl?

2009-03-26T08:57:00.000-07:00

The website claims the following:

"If you camp, you’ll love GoGirl. If you ski, you’ll love GoGirl. If you boat, you’ll love GoGirl. If you travel, you’ll love GoGirl. If you just want to avoid the germs you find in nasty public toilets, you’ll love GoGirl. GoGirl is for active women of all types and ages."

Personally, I would rather squat :)

Happy Birthday Dad

2009-03-24T10:10:00.000-07:00

This weekend my dad celebrated his 55th birthday. I had to work all weekend, but was able to spend a couple hours with him.
Dad, some of my favorite things about you are:
-That you laugh the hardest at your own jokes.
-That you are the hardest working person I know.
-The "elephant" noise you make to get dogs attention, and now my son's, as well.
-How much you love your family and grandson!
-That you have always seemed to be the slowest driver to me, but still manage to get speeding tickets now and then.
-The quiet way about you and your deep wisdom that reminds me how much more I have to learn from you.
Happy Birthday. I love you!

Collage me

2009-03-19T15:47:00.000-07:00

This is so cool! You can download it here.

P.S. I have no idea why this little family icon is at the bottom of the page

chubsters

2009-03-18T10:40:00.000-07:00

I know Oliver will be mortified when he is a teenager and sees these naked booty pictures of himself. I had to do it though. I'm so excited he finally has some chub on him! He is still much smaller than other babies his age, but this kid is burning calories like crazy. All he does is move! He is wearing babylegs which not only look cute, but help protect his knees as he crawls around. Just look at his chubby thighs and cellulite tush! I just want to squeeze those round cheeks he has......the one's on his face too!