Simply life- photographs

A Gas Station and a Rose

2012-02-14T08:07:00.000-06:00

It was early in the dating phase, when he first bought a rose while filling up the car's gas tank...

The roses set at the check out all wrapped in plastic....

And it became the routine.. when money was tight that first year.. and many times putting gas in the tank meant scrounging under cushions and through purses to have enough money for gas...

It was a time where meals were skimpy if it were not for her parents...but there was room for a rose.. every once in a while...

and 22 years and one month after that first rose.. He remembers and he finds one.. and this time.. the sacrifice is in the finding rather than the scraped together dollar..

and she loves it that much more.. cause he never forgets how far they have come.. and how far they still have to go....

favorite photo Monday

2012-02-13T09:56:00.000-06:00

I did my sneak peak last week of this young lady... but after all the work was done.. one photo just struck me as WOW!.....can not wait for my other Seniors

Garland Texas Senior Portrait

2012-02-09T19:27:00.000-06:00

Just spent the afternoon with an amazing young woman....Can not wait to see what the future holds for her.. I know it is something big.

Beautiful

2012-02-09T14:02:00.000-06:00

babies to boudoir.Rockwall Texas Photography

2012-02-09T11:02:00.000-06:00

Full Moon

2012-02-08T08:22:00.000-06:00

Sneak Peak... 6 months

2012-02-07T14:51:00.002-06:00

Can you believe it. Mr E is 6 months old.. along with his sister, Miss A. At their three month photo session.. I featured Miss E, so it is only fair to show off this guy...

I adore these babies.. and their two brothers.... What a joy to watch them grow!

2012-02-05T16:45:00.000-06:00

Simply Life Photographs Event Team is please to donate their services and photos to this great cause..

Please come and help this family.

The Living Lord's Supper and a Scripture and a Snapshot

2012-02-05T14:28:00.002-06:00

To walk into our Sanctuary this morning.. and look back into the hospitality room ( cry room ) and see disciples...like apparitions in our midst... was, for a moment, breathtaking...it actually was just looking through a glass wall and the bizarre way that light can bounce from one stained glass window to the next...but the moment worship was over and the guest began.. it was so much a touch of what being in the Lord's presence must be like

We were given a glimpse into that upper room... a chance to watch the awe in the faces of those special 12... who looked at Jesus, as if he were a super model, or an American Idol. Those 12 who did not comprehend that Jesus was a short time from his death, even though He told them on 4 occassions, including this time. Those 12, whom loved Jesus dearly, but fell asleep while Jesus prayed.. Those 12 simple Men, fisherman, tax collectors, followers... Who would become the catalyst of the First Church....and WE are so similar... So clueless, so Human...

Matthew 26 17-30

17 On the first day of the Festival of Unleavened Bread, the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Where do you want us to make preparations for you to eat the Passover?”

18 He replied, “Go into the city to a certain man and tell him, ‘The Teacher says: My appointed time is near. I am going to celebrate the Passover with my disciples at your house.’” 19 So the disciples did as Jesus had directed them and prepared the Passover.

20 When evening came, Jesus was reclining at the table with the Twelve. 21 And while they were eating, he said, “Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me.”

22 They were very sad and began to say to him one after the other, “Surely you don’t mean me, Lord?”

23 Jesus replied, “The one who has dipped his hand into the bowl with me will betray me. 24 The Son of Man will go just as it is written about him. But woe to that man who betrays the Son of Man! It would be better for him if he had not been born.”

25 Then Judas, the one who would betray him, said, “Surely you don’t mean me, Rabbi?”

Jesus answered, “You have said so.”

26 While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.”

27 Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. 28 This is my blood of the[b] covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. 29 I tell you, I will not drink from this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.”

30 When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.

We were gifted with a talented actor.. who transformed a play.... into Jesus and his words.. and I am better for it!

Scripture and a Snapshot

2012-01-28T21:52:00.001-06:00

So I often read while waiting in the pick up line at school.. and many times it is my bible that I read...( should be more, but sometimes some photog magazines find their way in to my front seat).

Well I am getting older, and I am near sighted... and I take off my glasses to read.. and when I looked up, right after reading this passage, this is what I saw... It struck me.. HARD.. that my physical vision and my spiritual vision are often not as "clear" as they should be..... Focus is paramount in my line of work....but it has a whole new meaning to me!

Have an awesome week!

Giving back and need your help

2012-01-27T10:09:00.001-06:00

Especially you Bloggers and Photographers in the UK

Simply Life Photographs is helping with a fundraiser to help a Sweet Baby Girl from our community...But this Baby is in England in the Hospital....

She went with family to visit for Christmas and is still there. She was diagnosed with Leukemia after becoming sick there, and is just not well enough to go home yet....

And her parents are struggling to make it through each day.. transportation is tough, housing is tough. communication with the states is tough.. on top of having a sick baby..

First, we need your prayers for Kensley... but if you can help locally.. That would be great too!. The loan of a laptop or tablet.. a friendly face, a warm meal....please let me know how you could help...

Kensley in being cared for at Addenbrookes Hospital in Cambridge... You can read her caringbridge page here
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/kensleyjones

( photo credit: Photo Jewels)

On February 26th from 12 to 5, in Rockwall Texas, A fundraiser for Baby Kensley will take place.. If you are in the Dallas Area, please come and join us for Hotdogs and Drinks and Family or Kid Photos.. Every photographed family will take home a photo... and have the option of purchasing more...Donations are welcome!

more shots at life

2012-01-26T14:36:00.001-06:00

My kids look normal... (well except for their extraordinary beauty)... they look like any other 10 year old and almost 8 year old girl at their school...( there is the one fact that they do not where Ms Me jeans.. cause I can't see paying that much for jeans... but they do wear Toms...but that is cause I am charitable) but they both see the world just a bit differently from most people...

They both have the neurological processing disorders known as Dyslexia and dysgraphia... and both have some sensory processing issues.. Like the 10 year old can not tolerate the sound of storm sirens.. it cause her great pain... and my little one does not even flinch when she gets a shot or had her ears pierced.. but can not tolerate the seam on her socks or having a paper cut.. To her, the big things are little and the little things are big...

Let me also say that they are good students with Mostly all A s all the time.. but that they work at least two hours an evening, relearning whatever was new in their day.. and that spelling is as effort in futility...and we talk a lot about winning. We talk about what a true win really is.. and that they have an ability to see the world differently from most... and that this is not a label but a launch pad to greatness..

but sometimes... ya jsut want to do things like other people.. Sometimes you want to be judged for what you do right, not be sidetracked because of what is different about you.. Like you can be awesome at art.. and draw amazing pictures, even if your handwriting looks like sanscrit...like you can tell amazing stories.. with complex plot lines and deep character development but writing them down causes such anxiety that you forget the large vocabulary and just make the sentences simple so that you can turn in a paper..

Like the fact that you just long to be asked for lunch by the classmate that seems to do it all right and have it all.. and she is overheard saying.." she must be dumb, look at her handwriting..."

Sometimes, Life is about shooting baskets and never making one....but sometimes it is just shooting enough to get it to fall in....

Sometimes, A Portrait....

2012-01-25T14:32:00.000-06:00

Gives a Hint... but reveals little...

and it was never a planned photo session......

Please Come Down Mr. Cardinal

2012-01-24T17:08:00.000-06:00

"I can not get any higher!"

Some days, you score

2012-01-24T09:01:00.001-06:00

Favorite Photo Monday

2012-01-22T21:20:00.003-06:00

I so appreciate all the emails asking where I have been..... and I have to let you in on a little secret.... I have been having so much fun working.... some work, I can not share here.. but I will give you a little hint...

This is sooc, as my work flow is not smooth yet... but the photos are beautiful.I am blessed to have so many beautiful women as clients?. and so excited that I have a few more clients before the deadline. What husband is not going to enjoy this as a Valentine gift??? If you have not found the perfect gift for hubby this February, might I suggest a little photo? Photo album? story board??? even a few wallets?

Scripture and a snapshot

2012-01-22T08:51:00.000-06:00

It is a repost... and it is a reminder of of our move a little over a year ago....So many things that we loved about moving here.. and it finally feels like home.... Will you all pray for the hostess of Scripture and a Snapshot...I have moved so many times.. and I want ya'll to pray that a friend will show up for Katie.. A friend that nwill invite her to lunch, to a playdate.. to a chance at support in this new community

5 friends, one sister, two casts, lots of makeup

2012-01-21T11:43:00.000-06:00

and a birthday party

These girls... are the sweetest, niceest, kindest little kids I know... They even argued over who would lead in prayer before their pizza dinner..they do need to work on their makeups skills a little...ROFL

two handfuls

2012-01-20T20:59:00.000-06:00

Does not seem like it has been ten years....

and this is what happens when ya let friends do your makeup at a sleep over

Happy Birthday Baby Girl!!!!!

What Could it Be?

2012-01-13T14:32:00.000-06:00

That has my babies so inthralled??????

Can you see him???? Every morning for a week He has come to sit in the pear tree.... and drive these almost 7 month old bird dogs crazy!!!!

A good day for .....

2012-01-10T19:21:00.001-06:00

DUCKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thank you Lord for two days of slow rain!!!!

Scripture and a Snapshot...and bokeh

2012-01-07T20:34:00.001-06:00

Normally a Christmas verse... as this is Mary's response to the angel that God sent. Great verse for me this year. I thought it worked well with the bokeh from my day at the lake.. unseen things (the future) that I am willingly accepting, because my hope is in the Lord!!!!

2012-01-06T08:29:00.000-06:00

Dear Michelle.... ya did great redoing my blog... so here..

UUUMMMMMMM......

2012-01-05T12:53:00.002-06:00

Ya Think??????

As you can see.. the drought is still an issue here..Many stock ponds are slowly filling... but our lake and the lake used by our water district is still very low.. in fact, we are headed to stage four water restrictions.. Not sure what that means... but I think bathing is still possible.

This of That

2012-01-05T08:52:00.000-06:00

AWWWW do you have to take my picture????

Ok .. if you insist

I love when..

2012-01-04T13:17:00.000-06:00

My Pictures become Art in someone's home.......

Or at the very least.... makes their cocoa even more pleasant

Where you need to Shop

2012-01-03T16:01:00.000-06:00

One of my favorite bloggers just has to be EWA over at Blueberry Craft and Hobby Time. So imagine my excitement when I saw a package in the mail from Ireland....

What did the package contain you ask????? Well these adorable little magnets that you see above... So well made and perfectly pretty. They look wonderful on the magnet board in my kitchen...and a big help keeping track of everyone's schedule. There were other things in the package... but you will have to wait until next Tuesday to see what else is in store for you.. Why don't ya check out Ewa's etsy store and see if you can guess what I have... I will give you a hint... My girls LOVE them....
So be sure and check out Ewa's blog at blueberrycraftandhobbytim e.blogspot.com

and her Etsy store and Facebook page for LilacGifts... You will be amazed at all the great gift items that you will want to buy for someone and want to buy for yourself. I especially like her gift tags.. beautiful and endless possibilities.

A New Year and a New Word

2011-12-31T22:05:00.001-06:00

I first heard of the word for a year over at A Holy Experience, Ann Voskamps' amazingly wonderful website...
but I have seen other blog with it as well, so I am not sure whom to give credit...

anyway.. a word to represent my New Year.. 2012 is going to be busy..for which I am most Thankful.. but I often get burdened in the details.. and I stress over things that I have no control and I forget who is really in charge...

So in my effort to remember that God is piloting this life... I present....my word.... ((((drumroll, please))))

I am positive that God is in control

I am positive that my family will grow and thrive

I am postive that I can not be all things to all people

I am positive that my knowledge and skills will continue to grow

I am postive that stumbling blocks will come and make me stronger

I am positive that I have value

I am positive that God's plan for me is for good

and so many other things.. now, I just have to remember it.

Happy New Year!!! May 2012 be your best yet!

Happy New Year!!!

2011-12-31T08:11:00.000-06:00

Welcome 2012.. And blessings to all as the celebrate and plan for a new year.. I love frsh beginnings..

“I am the Lord’s servant, and I am willing to accept whatever he wants.” (Luke 1:38).

This is my take on the traditonal New Years Baby

Sneak Peak...Little Miss S

2011-12-30T18:46:00.000-06:00

What a joy to meet 2 week old Miss S today....I usually shoot my newborns earlier, but Miss S was so sweet and so good, I may rethink that in the future

LOVE IT!!!!!

2011-12-28T12:26:00.000-06:00

My cameras got new gear this year.. They are now ready to face the new year with a bold new look....Loving this strap from Mod... and it is long... and when I am shooting small children I love a strap that allows me to carry my camera across my body. Then, if I need to help pose the little people, I do not wack them in the face with a heavy camera and lens.. it hangs at my hip.. and easily is pulled up to shoot.

And, although I wish it were different, Mod does not know who I am or that I like their stuff....

Favorite Photo Monday

2011-12-26T15:05:00.001-06:00

Sisters who really understood about buying a gift for each other for the first time.. and the bonus... they understood the joy that the other had in making the purchase.. We struggle with what can only be called greed in our house. In wanting what others have...or what we preceive that others have.. and we work hard as parents to teach that the worldly stuff we often crave is so not what God wants for us... and for a brief moment yesterday, they totally got it!!!!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T21:46:00.001-06:00

He came lowly in a manger... among the animals and heralded by angels to Shepards.....
He came helpless and naked and human, to a teen age mom and a carpenter step father
He came perfect and human all at the same time....

and He left to sit on a throne, for you and for me... and through him, you have eternal life....

Happy Birthday Jesus!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

And the countdown begins

2011-12-24T15:49:00.001-06:00

They wait.....

for the candlelight service.....

and the snacks afterwards....

and time with friends tomorrow...

and the phone calls to grandparents and cousins...

They surf the web dreaming of wants and desires

and peruse 2 month old toy catalogs for dreams of hours of play

and they look like this when you sneak up on them with a camera......

At the time of this posting... Santa is in Turkey.....

This Family...

2011-12-23T22:10:00.000-06:00

... means the world to me.....

So who did I meet????

2011-12-22T19:44:00.001-06:00

For most of this year I have read daily the happenings at Run-a-roundranch ( click there).... I love TexWis girl and her tales of the horse eating from the birdfeeders, of Thelma and Louise, of a fun shaped house, and tried so hard to win some of her art work that she creates and gives away....

TeWis Girl is an awesome photographer....and loves animals and actually lives pretty darn close to me... in a Texas way of living close. At least our counties are neighbors...

Well we met today, in a parking lot, with hugs and laughter and a love for "Bones"....

( I like her pic better, so get check out her blog)

And so ya see the milk can??? When TexWis Girl pulled that out of her drought stricken pond... I wanted it.. I could see that at my front door with a big ole pot of flowers in it.. and TexWis Girl gave it to me!!!!!!!! AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!

and yes, there is a porta potty in the background.... cause we are real!!!!

All in all... I met a fun, charming beautiful woman from blog land today!!!! and I am so thrilled... She is more and sweeter and more beautiful than I imagined...

And my front porch is gonna look awesome!

PS: Watch out bloggers, you could appear here sometime soon!!!

Meeting a new friend

2011-12-22T18:54:00.002-06:00

What a glorious day we had today!!!!!

We started by delivering gifts to our favorite place to be helpful....

It is so fun to watch people be excited... and they had bed pillows in those bags...and of course pillow cases....What amazing work that is done at this place.. This HOME, that provides joy and hope and promise, all through Jesus with only the help of small churches and organizations and people.... no federal or state dollars come here...

and then, in the parking lot,... after many emails and planning ( not really the planning part)... I met the one and only.. fellow Texas blogger......

Oh wait.. She needs a post all of her own... so more of that later.....

After meeting with my newest friend.. who writes and photographs an awesome blog..

We made cookies.. so our friends could come and decorate them with us...

Then our friends came to decorate and we made yummy popcorn stuff.. and packed it all up and delivered it to our many awesome neighbors.. Cause they rock!!! all for different reasons....
Merry Christmas, Ya'LL

and then we had dinner and spent a lot of time talking about our new friend.. and how Awesome it is to live here and be involved with so many really nice, kind, generous people

And I am jsut wonderin if ya know who I met yet???? I will give you a hint that her photos are often well framed.... she is sort of famous for it...

WOW!!!!

2011-12-22T15:02:00.000-06:00

Met a Fellow Blogger today. and made a new friend.... watch for the fun post... and my "new" favorite decor item!!!!!!

Pictures to come....

6 Flags over Texas and a bit o'bokeh

2011-12-21T21:35:00.000-06:00

Who in the world goes to a huge amusement park in December??? We do.... and had fun and froze our little toesies

And a certain someone was asking where my Bokeh pics were? ( you know who you are)..so I give you this!

sparkles

2011-12-21T10:25:00.000-06:00

Some of you know that I shoot for interior designers..Their advertising photos and before and after shots of their work..Let me tell you what awesome artist these indivduals are....and sometimes in a before shot.. ya get a glimpse of the finished product....like this beauty...

Favorite Photo Monday

2011-12-19T23:17:00.000-06:00

The way the rain and the light were hitting this pear tree.... My fav of the week!

Scripture and a Snapshot

2011-12-17T20:14:00.001-06:00

This couple does such a great job parenting their kids...And their love and reverence for God comes through in all their interactions.. What a joy to photograph them all... including that cute pup.

3 Sisters- a sneak Peak

2011-12-16T08:22:00.000-06:00

I have a special place in my heart for these three girls.....Each one is sweet and kind and unique.. and Fearfully made....

This or That Thursday.....

2011-12-15T08:09:00.000-06:00

When you are just turned 5....You need to celebrate with photos...
especially with a cowboy hat....

Dallas Graphics Company Review

2011-12-14T14:23:00.000-06:00

If you are in the Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex....Heck if you are within 200 miles of the metroplex...I have the Graphic Company for you.. Whether you are seeking business cards, banner signs, Large format prints, or even a car wrap... Stylographic is the company for you

Based in Rockwall Texas, stylographic, can meet all of your printing and graphic needs... they even do embroidery....

And better yet, the Owners and staff are some of the most talented and honest people that I have ever met.

And they sure treated me right...

Hard to top a man in uniform

2011-12-14T09:53:00.000-06:00

but when you add a beautiful woman.... it does get better

We interrupt your evening.....

2011-12-13T17:23:00.002-06:00

You may resume your normal activities!!!

Merry Christmas Ya'll

2011-12-13T10:59:00.000-06:00

another great sneak peak....Does a Photo session get more fun then this?

Favorite Photo Monday

2011-12-12T09:08:00.000-06:00

This was an inpromptu shot while photographing Daddy in his Dress Blues....you will see more of this amazing family later.... Do you see Mom and Dad in the reflection in the marble?

I may be going out on a limb here

2011-12-10T10:19:00.000-06:00

But we just might not yet be ready for the big kid swing!!!!!

This or That Kids

2011-12-08T10:28:00.001-06:00

I love this or that.. and while I really had planned a Christmas style post.. another thought came to me.

I am often asked how I get children to pose... and the answer is, "I don't".. I work with them and their personality.. which is simple when we shoot outdoors..not so much with lights and backdrops indoors..but I do bribe with starburst and then find out what their favorite toy is. I am guaranteed a shot that the parent will love...

And my offering of proof?

Sneak Peak.. The H Family

2011-12-06T14:06:00.000-06:00

I adore the family... and so thrilled to capture this.. plus a whole lot more!!!!

I love Photography

2011-12-06T10:58:00.001-06:00

and I love Texas.. I love all all of her differing terrains, her pride, her ability to cause people to love her fiercly...and I love the skills it takes to capture it all..

Wyman Meinzer's West Texas from Wyman Meinzer on Vimeo.

Monday..and I love the weekend

2011-12-04T21:22:00.001-06:00

Since I can not pick... I am leaving it up to you....

Scripture and a Snapshot

2011-12-03T20:46:00.000-06:00

25 days of Christmas with Michelle

2011-12-02T11:30:00.002-06:00

Hey! Doing the 25 days of Christmas with Michelle over at Snapshot by Michelle... and the 1st day prompt was Nativity...to participate in click here

Our Family really puts an emphasis on why we celebrate Christmas...The Birth of baby Jesus.. and i can not think of a better way start then season then a concert at school.. Where my darling sang her first solo.. along with a lot of other kiddos singing their first...

She has so many abilities that I don't, like being in front of a crowd..with confidence.. soooo proud of her!...

No Tomorrow and June Scott

2011-11-29T08:56:00.000-06:00

Ya'll know that I have embraced being a Texan, and I love meeting other strong Christian Texas Women. and I am so thrilled to have met in blogland a Texan by the name of June Scott...

June Scott is the non de plume for an author who has written a must read. A book that will remind you of love, romance and that we are to follow God's plan for our lives. Her words are so descriptive that I was carried away to a place far from Texas.. Her characters have depth, I felt like I knew them. or at the least that I wanted to know them...

Adding to a pleasant read is the fact that this is a book that you will want to share.. I am ready to pass my copy along to a friend. and I think it is a great book to share with a non Christian friend. June guides you through the searching for Christ, uses great references for further exploration and refers you to start your search in John... You can share Christ with a friend without ever coming off as a missionary or a "thumper" ..LOL. Just kidding.. but it is truly a great way to open the door to share your love for Jesus with someone that may have not yet met him.

I am off to read more of June Scott, and if you are not done with your Christmas shopping I highly reccomend her writings...

http://www.junescott.com/
You can also be inspired on a closer basis by reading June Scott's blog

junescottinspiredby

Favorite Photo Monday and Sneak Peak

2011-11-28T12:24:00.000-06:00

I love Miss C... and all of her expressions, and the fact that she LOVES the flash of studio lights!!!!

and her Momma is pretty awesome too!!

PS: this is SOOC.. I literally just got home from this shoot...and if you are looking for fab window coverings... Email me..I know the Interior Designer for this room.. The Draperies were devine, and the whole room looked like a magazine!

2011-11-26T19:43:00.002-06:00

So many places that I find God.. many times desperately seeking, other times stumbling upon Him.. Always amazed at the beauty of it all.

Happy 77th Birthday Dad!

2011-11-26T07:47:00.000-06:00

It meant so much to have your here for M2's baptism, for Thanksgiving and for your birthday... Travel safe!!!! The girls loved making your cake... and trying to keep it a secret...

Thankful

2011-11-23T21:54:00.001-06:00

So Thankful, everyday, for so much

for daughters to bake with, and see the beauty in the drips
for husbands who provide and love and correct with God in mind
for parents who never stop teaching me, so that I become my true self
for friends that know just what i need, and when I need it
for a business that grows and stretches
for opportunities that rise
for teacher who see potential instead of problems
for those that are willing to go the extra miles for our family
for God, who knew it all...

and.. for the people that created stumbling blocks, you made me grow
for the ones that deny my God, I hope I help you grow
for all that see me , may you see others before self... each time you don't, you make me strive more

A big Thank you and a Happy Thanksgiving

and to show your thanks for all that God has given you.... click here help a baby

test

2011-11-22T19:46:00.003-06:00

Favorite Photo Monday

2011-11-20T20:52:00.001-06:00

Like I said Yesterday.. Our youngest was baptized on Sunday.. She actually made a personal acceptance of Christ as her Saviour some time ago.. but this summer was able to conquer her fear of water, and was anxious for baptism... and then was so patient to wait for Grandparents to make the 15 hour drive to be with her on that day...
This is my favorite shot of the day....

This is her favorite photo from the day....it is coming up to a new life!!!! and her life is filled with compassion and self sacrifice.. so I can only imagine how awesome her life will be now...although she understands that this was a symbolic gesture.. the real work was accepting Jesus a long time ago...

Scripture and a Snapshot

2011-11-20T07:01:00.001-06:00

Our Youngest enters the baptismal pool this Sunday.... So proud that she knows Jesus, so thrilled to call her a sister in Christ!!!

2011-11-19T21:28:00.001-06:00

Flowers on Saturday

2011-11-18T20:28:00.001-06:00

Sneak Peak

2011-11-15T19:21:00.001-06:00

This little lady has a twin brother... I photographed them as newborns, you can see them here and so happy to get them again at three months.. My have they grown and changed. You will see more of them later.. but I had to share this one shot. She is wearing a dress that her mother wore,.. and it is so girly, and a girl with a twin brother and two older brothers will need to get her girly on!!!!

To be one again!!!!! a sneak peak with a twist

2011-11-15T10:49:00.002-06:00

This little lady is going to have a full blown photo shoot very soon, to celebrate her first birthday, this shot is from her party... and a good time was had by all!!!!

Sneak Peak

2011-11-14T14:19:00.000-06:00

So happy to spend time with this family.. and had fun making new friends...and there are studio shots coming soon...

and that tiny little girl??? She stood on her own during our time together.. talk about being in the right place at the right time with a camera in my hand....Her parents were so proud

Favorite Photo....

2011-11-13T21:37:00.001-06:00

I simply love many photo sessions in a row, over two days... and knowing, from the moment i click the shutter that I have a favorite....three shoots this weekend.. and this....is... my.. fav......

Scripture and a Snapshot

2011-11-13T07:20:00.000-06:00

Prayer and what we should do...A bridge!

2011-11-09T10:55:00.001-06:00

Prayer is a bridge to God for me... I do many things, but I pray well and I pray often...I am honored to pray for others when asked, and I have inudated friends and fellow prayer warriors with prayer requests that come my way... I truly believe prayer is of vital importance and I often go through my day praying often. I pray while cleaning bathrooms and making beds, and I sit down, even lay down and pray when I feel that prayer is the absolute only thing I am to focus on.

A few years ago, lying in bed or on the couch with a back injury.. I would stare at the ceiling and visualize every single person I could think of and prayer for them. I was incapable of very little else, could barely walk, was in severe pain.. but I could pray!!!

I lost a dear person to my life this week. He was 91...and remarkable.. and I have been praying earnestly that he would be healed.. that I would keep him on this plane just a while longer. I do not live near him.. and have limited communication, an occasionaly email or note...but my world is emptier with out him. He was such a gentle, powerful man, that I am a tad jealous that he is in Glory, and I am here..

This man was a part of my life for 40 years...and He made me understand that I had skills and talents, he modeled ethics and morals. He showed how to be creative, how to be Godly and he was one of the most open minded, warm hearted people that I will ever meet.

I have a relative that is beginning a battle for life against cancer.. and of course I am calling for prayer for her.. but like my friend, she is fighting from a winning position.. She KNOWS that Jesus has the power to heal..

These Bridges take us to Christ.. Whether we are prayer warriors: Connecting the need with the power, or we are the lucky one that gets to cross the bridge to our permanent home... Bridges are important....and so is prayer!

Favorite Photo Monday

2011-11-07T06:39:00.000-06:00

Was not sure what I wanted here today, until I saw Ewa's post... then I knew the perfect shot!

During our visit in San Antonio, our girls had so much fun each morning with these guys. The hotel courtyard had residents of the feathered kind.. asian pheasants and several peacocks...The pheasants were the ones we saw most often...

Highlighting the Promises of God with Rosie and Guest Post

2011-11-05T15:32:00.010-05:00

John 4:10

Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.”

Jesus is my living water, and I have been highlighting the promises of God with Rosie over at http://leavesnbloomphotography.blogspot.com/

This is a blog that is a must read.. and I am humbled to have my words and images appear here. Please visit!

read me over here today!

Flowers on Saturday

2011-11-05T08:17:00.000-05:00

Not my best flower shot..but it was the composition of the photo, with the crack near the beautiful flower that really made me keep this shot. No matter how broken and cracked my life might be.. Jesus makes something beautiful out of it!!!!!

click the button to visit other Flowers on Saturday...

Macro Friday

2011-11-04T09:20:00.001-05:00

I have not participated in Macro Friday in a long while.. simply because I have not had any macros to share...

Here is a prickley pear cactus right out of the Alamo... Not sure of the fungi growing on it.. but my daughters were intrugued.. and insisted that I take the shot....

2011-11-03T12:51:00.000-05:00

I may or may not have mentioned that I love our school.. and now I love our school district, cause all this week our 2nd graders are swimming at the aquatic center... They bus the over each morning.. and according to the kids.. the best thing is no spelling test this week! :)

is HE in you????

2011-11-02T13:41:00.001-05:00

State Capitol...Austin Texas

2011-11-02T09:10:00.000-05:00

This beautiful building with a ornate detail of a time past

Ornate all the way to the top....inside and out

The House of Representative Chambers- my girls noted the comfy chairs.. that maybe people sat there for long periods of time...and the podiums for "Civil arguments" as my 9 year old said...

The Senate Chambers... where it was noted, there are less people.. and the chairs are not so comfy. They do not sit here long!

All of that history and power.. and this is still on our public streets....

More from the event and a request

2011-11-01T13:34:00.001-05:00

Are these ladies gorgeous?????? I just had so much fun with them. they have amazing parents and I am beter for meeting them....

and now for the request...

only 13 states....have not sent in prayers.. can you help us... we have until Friday to email or facebook our prayers... if you are from one of these states, or know someone in these states will you spread the word?

Hi there!

We have collected over 500 written prayers for Joplin. Our initial thought was to get one from every state in the country, creating a "nationwide blanket of prayer" over Joplin. But the prayers have been coming in from all over the world, so we are expanding our territory and are now trying to gather one from every continent!

Can you help us?

We have RECEIVED written prayers from 37 states, 17 countries and 5 continents.

We NEED written prayers from South America, Antarctica and the following 13 states:

Alaska

Delaware

Maryland

Massachusetts

Montana

Nevada

New Hampshire

New Mexico

Rhode Island

South Dakota

Utah

Vermont

Wyoming

If you know anyone who has a heart for praying for people, please pass this request along and ask them to email their written prayer (including their name and location, i.e Kristin from Kansas) to joplin@setapartkc.com. I have provided some stats below on the tornado to help guide their prayers as well as a description of The Hope Memorial project so they know how their prayers will be used. WE NEED TO HAVE THESE BY FRIDAY,

Thank you so much for your part in helping Joplin to heal and have hope.

Kristin

About the tornado:

The May 22, 2011 EF-5 tornado was the 8th deadliest tornado in U.S. history. It had wind speeds over 200 mph and was traveling slowly at just 25 mph. The tornado was approximately 1 mile wide and destroyed everything in its path for 6 long miles.

162 lives lost

more than 1,000 injured

approximately 7,000 homes destroyed (1/2 of these families had no insurance)

approximately 500 businesses destroyed

approximately 5,000 jobs affected

About The Hope Memorial:

Theme: Jeremiah 29:11...that God’s plans for us are not for disaster, but for hope!

set apart is partnering with the Salvation Army in Joplin to build The Hope Memorial...a 7 ft. x 14 ft. piece of redeeming art built from wreckage and debris the tornado left behind.

The Hope Memorial is a multi-media, community-based, redeeming piece of art that offers a unique opportunity for spiritual hope and emotional healing to the survivors of the May 22, 2011 tornadoes in Joplin, MO. The Memorial is being built out of debris and wreckage from the Salvation Army Thrift Store site at 26th and Main. More info: http://www.setapartkc.com/the-hope-memorial1.html

About the event:

Joplin Family Worship Center

5290 East 7th Street in Joplin

Saturday, November 12, 2011

1:00 - 4:00 pm

The Hope Memorial Participation Day event will be a time when the people of Kansas City will come and serve the people of Joplin to help address emotional and spiritual needs...helping them to see beauty amongst the devastation...helping them to experience the hope of a BIG God.

It will be a time of worship, encouragement and inspiration, Memorial participation and dedication, and prayer. We will encourage people to remember, but to look ahead...to grieve, but to have hope. More info: http://www.setapartkc.com/the-hope-memorial.html

Here is some info for you on our effort to collect written hopes and prayers for Joplin as we try and create a nationwide blanket of prayer for them.

Collecting Written Hopes and Prayers
DEADLINE NOVEMBER 1
Please mention name and location with submission. Example: Kristin from Kansas

As we collect hopes and prayers for Joplin in writing, they will literally become the foundation of The Hope Memorial. It is important that they be written for several reasons: 1. So that these hopes and prayers are preserved forever; 2. So that the people of Joplin can actually see what has been brought before the Lord on their behalf. 3. So that one day they can go back and see how God answered these prayers. 4. So that these hopes and prayers and the sincerity behind them - something that is normally very intangible - become tangible and real. It is one thing to know that people are praying for you, but it is quite another to know what they prayed for you.

The first time I went to Joplin, the pastor at the host church said this to us:

"Don’t be afraid to tell them the story of how this came to be. Where we are from. Who is involved. Tell them what lengths we went to. It is healing to them to hear what people are willing to do to help them. It adds to the significance of their existence. They often come in crying…and they realize it is because they are overwhelmed with the generosity being shown to them.

This is how extreme God is. He will go to great lengths to let you know how much he loves you."

I share that with you because we want to be used by God in an extreme way, and we are willing to go to great lengths to gather massive amounts of written hopes and prayers to show these people how much they are loved...we are beyond grateful that you are joining us in this effort.

Just because I love it....

2011-10-30T15:34:00.000-05:00

And there were so many night shots that I wanted to shoot in San Antonio, and I left the tripod at home....

But I love this one.....

scripture and a snapshot

2011-10-30T08:02:00.001-05:00

So I dragged mt family, half of whom are not feeling well off and on for the last 4 days, to the state capitol. We walked into the Senate and House Chambers. Talked about everything from how the elected officials cast their votes from their desks... where they stand when arguing a bill, and who were all these people in really large paintings all over the place.. We studied the details of an era gone by.. and the 7 year old even commented on the mix of old world and new, with the presence of the LED exit signs... totally stood out against the ornate wood work

We talked a lot about the power that resides in that building, and how you could sit in the upper galleries and watch the government in motion, and both girls noted that is was a serious job....

We explored, debated, and experienced just a tiny piece of how state government works...and then, walking around those grounds... i prayed that all who come there will feel presence of God and make the right choices in leading us

A River Runs Through It

2011-10-28T08:50:00.000-05:00

This or That Thursday- San Antonio addition

2011-10-27T12:07:00.000-05:00

Took my two best models on search for the best shoot locations this morning... Too bad the tall one is not feeling well.. and we are now back at the hotel trying to bring down a fever... we have an afternoon appointment.. praying that we make it...

Here is a SOOC for you...

Tangled- revisited

2011-10-25T06:47:00.001-05:00

That is what I am !!!

I should explain... as a christian. I am tangled between what God wants of me and where i fit as a christian in society...........I am not sad..

Favorite Photo Monday

2011-10-23T18:04:00.000-05:00

Thousands of Photos... and this one stood out. I adore this couple and they moved with such grace and beauty.....

4 days

2011-10-22T17:11:00.000-05:00

At a 4 day event... not seeing my family.. Knowing that Daddy had it all under control.. meeting and photographing people from all over the world.....

I love being a photographer!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

More photos to come

Thanks, in advance

2011-10-19T06:25:00.000-05:00

Things will be a bit quite around here for the next several days.. Simply Life Photographs is off for a 4 day event shoot. If you are a prayer warrior.. will ya lift us up? This is new and bigger than we usually work..

Thanks!

Favorite Photo

2011-10-17T09:05:00.001-05:00

It is a David and Goliath moment... I love that this little girl stole home.. and that this catcher was soooooo much bigger... My fav shot of the week.....

Something Sweet

2011-10-15T23:04:00.000-05:00

I took this from the archives... but it is sooo sweet...

Scripture and a Snapshot

2011-10-15T21:47:00.001-05:00

To have two girls on the same softball team.. with some amazing girls, from amazing families with amazing Dads.. is awesome... To watch my husband talk to them and work with them and watch them seek his guidance whether they are at the plate ready to hit, or getting ready to steal a base... They all look for their Dad. He holds a lot of power over them... they will seek his guidance to make the right choice.. I hope all of the girls on our team continue to seek out Godly counsel in the choices they make. And I am so thankful that every girl on that team has a Daddy that makes good choices and guides them with wisdom and integrity...and that they all have a Father in Heaven that provided that Dad.

This or That Thursday

2011-10-13T10:45:00.002-05:00

I am totally loving this meme by Deb .. please click the button above to see more entries, or to enter your own....

This photo is part of a series... you have seen one, but I have given you no background story..

This is a Tennessee Walker, who was a rescue horse... This Gelding had a bad reputation.. and as a 4 year old that seems a bit tough....Spirit of the Horse got a hold of him. and through the course of the demonstation that we watched, and just prior too the presentation, we witnessed a horse being respected and loved.

In the stall, we witnessed this young cow girl gently reaching fingers to this horse's nose.. She gently tickled his nose.. and presented the bridle... ( note that he does not have a bit). He backed off, and she never rushed and they repeated that processes numerous times... eventually He allowed the bridle... she took this same approach to saddle him.. always waiting on him to be ready....

In the arena, she eventually was able, with his permission, to mount him....
A horse that had been written off as useless, is actually being trained for its new owner.. a Woman, who had a stroke and has diminished capacity on one entire side of her body.. will soon ride this guy.. Not sure which story is greater..the horse that no one wanted, or the woman whom could have chosen the path of victim and instead chose to learn to ride!!!!

reading is fundamental

2011-10-12T08:24:00.000-05:00

Texas State Fair Wrap up

2011-10-11T12:31:00.000-05:00

in an effort not to bombard you with a large photo dump....

The favorites of the kids.... in collage form..... some of these baby animals crack me up!!

And we all fell in love with the Three Billy Goats Gruff

Favorite Photo Monday

2011-10-10T06:55:00.001-05:00

Joining up with Ewa and her new Meme....

I took this last week... and it was a favorite..... please be sure and click thebutton so you can link your favorite and visit others....

A Hero Comes Home

2011-10-07T12:34:00.000-05:00

We forget sometimes.....

that freedom is not

free...

that there is a cost to saying: what we believe,

to purchase what we want, to live as we choose, to worship as we wish.

And there are all those people in our military that are willing to give their lives, voluntarily, for you the have those rights. and there are families that miss daddy at soccer games, and wives that wish they had someone to bear the burden of life and parenthood, to share the joys and figure out the challenges...

And there are certain Dads who surprise their girls at school, when they are home from deployment.

You, Sir, are a hero! And we thank God that you are safe, and we thank you for your service!

Welcome Home!

This Post Brought to You By....

2011-10-06T09:42:00.001-05:00

The Texas State Fair

....And she scores

2011-10-05T07:19:00.002-05:00

She Pitches.....

She Catches...

She steals Home.....

And she scores!!!!!!

When things do not go your way

2011-10-01T17:25:00.003-05:00

When it is the first game of the season, and because there were not enough 7 and 8 year olds, ya get bumped up to the 10u level of play, that is player pitch, you are a pro at coach pitch.....

Because the team you are playing,played their first game thursday, and they practice 9 hours a week, and they were practicing a month before your team started....

Because you LOVE softball, but some of the joy is gone, cause you are on your older sisters team... and she loves the spot light, and you are a tad bit shy..... and the big kids seem so big....

Big Sister as the lead off pitcher

And because it is a double header and we started early in the morning.. I am clinging to this
1. I have made a new friend and I cannot wait to have a playdate....
2. The bases were loaded and I was at bat... I was gonna bring them all home, and the uppire called the game due to league time requirements
3. I LOVE softball and I am good at it...

4. For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.
1Timothy 4:8

New Born Photo session

2011-09-30T14:20:00.001-05:00

These were the toughest babies that I have photographed, ever.... I had no clue that the entire family would be present, nor did I realize that they all would want a treat.. I guess word has spread that I usually bring skittles or starbursts to my photo sessions.. With this family I did not think I would need it....

But the minute that they could see that I was headed their way.. They started bawling and headed towards us..

And this was such a large family, it took a bit to find the subject baby...and the males in a family are the ones who always try to look so tough....

Mamma was wanting her baby well fed before we arrived, but of course the baby wanted to see what was going on...

This new Mama wanted her baby's picture taken also...

Aren't those eyelashes to die for?????