Harley Davidson and Connie

I can't believe I almost forgot to post this session!  My mother-in-law, Connie, called me several months ago, and wanted to do a special photo session for her husband, Tom.  Connie believes that Tom has a secret love affair with Harley Davidson Motorcycles, and thus, came up with the idea of incorporating a Harley into the session.  I was a little nervous about this session; this was, afterall, my mother-in-law... it had to be amazing!  :)  I was so excited about the outcome, but had to keep it all a secret until after Christmas.  It was so tough for me to not share these.  The first picture was created in a movie poster style for Tom's garage.

I love her look in a hat in the ones below.  She's so adorable!

WHEEEEE!!!

We used about 20 of Connie's favorite images to create a "little black book" for Tom to keep with him.  I kept joking that I was going to have to go into therapy after this session.  :)  We had fun, and it far exceeded my expectations.  Tom thoroughly enjoyed them as well; He called me on Christmas morning to thank me personally.

Winter Portrait Discount

It's winter and our midwest weather can be crappy, but for those who wish to brave it and take a chance at the hope of a mild day, I am offering a 30% discount on all my portrait sessions.  Call me at 816.812.1559 to schedule your session!

Gabrielle Lauren

Gabrielle Lauren was born on Friday, December 19, 2008 weighing 5 pounds, 10 ounces, and measuring 17 1/2 inches long.  She was a dream come true, and a precious gift.  On December 24, she was diagnosed with Trisomy 18.

Trisomy 18 is a form of Down Syndrome and affects the heart, kidneys, and brain.  The doctors have only given her a month to live.  With the help of a group called Carousel, Gabrielle's parents, Wes and Chrissy, were able to take her home just a few days after her diagnosis.  Carousel is a non-profit organization that helps families of children with shortened life expectancies. For Wes and Chrissy, Carousel has provided a car bed, a home oxygen machine, and hospice care 2-3 times a week.  This has been a tremendous help.

Some of you may remember one of my brides from last year, Jennifer.  She contacted me last week about Gabrielle, and asked if I would be willing to take some pictures.  I immediately accepted.  Gabrielle is so precious, and is such a little fighter.  I was so honored to do this session.

I love Chrissy's expressions here... so peaceful... so loving. 

This session will forever be in my heart.  I checked in on the meaning behind the name Gabrielle, and found it to be so fitting... "God is my strength"

Wes and Chrissy, thank you for allowing me into your home, and into your lives. Gabrielle will be in my prayers.

For a special slideshow of more images CLICK HERE

Tis the Season... to be posting

Well, the holidays are over, and I am finally settling down.  I am so amazed at how fast time flies these days... too fast in my opinion.  But with the close of every year brings the promise and hope for something better.  I am a sucker for promises... I have this crazy habit of taking people at their word.  I also tend to hang onto hope as if it's being discontinued.  I am looking forward to an amazing year and looking back with a humble gratefulness.  I have been given more than I deserve and blessed far beyond anything I could have ever imagined!

A huge part of that blessing is my family.  I am so grateful for them and am truly grateful for the gift I have in them!  Paul and I headed to my parents in southeast Missouri the weekend before Christmas; there, we met my sister and brother and their families.  I always have so much fun hanging out with my family, and this time was no different... perhaps one of the best times.  Joah is just now beginning to walk ( I know!  He's only 10 months old!) and he smiled and laughed the entire weekend.  Below are a few images from my holidays; I know they may not mean much to you as my reader, but they mean the world to me!  If time allows, I may post a few more later this week.

My grandma reading to her great- grandson... so precious!

My brother and Joah were two peas in a pod... I think Joah had withdrawals after we all parted ways.

Our traditional hanging of the stockings.

Joah by his big gift on Christmas morning.

Paul got an ax from my sister and her husband... He looks so happy... it makes me a little worried that I might not have any trees left in the near future.

I had to throw this one in.  I take care of Nicky quite a bit and captured this moment of him watching his train go around the Christmas tree.

Paul on our Christmas morning back here in Kansas City.  Not sure if I was wise with this purchase.  There are moments (sometimes hours) when I began to regret it :)

I love the holidays, but am somewhat glad that they are over.  It will be nice to get back into a regular routine.  Coming up:  a special post on a very special photo session I did last Sunday afternoon.