Maria Glassford Photography

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2010-01-05T16:59:00.001-05:00

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Halloween..Glassford Style

2009-11-04T17:31:00.003-05:00

Every Halloween we make the short trip one street over to my dad's neighborhood for some good, old fashioned trick or treating. I just love how the neighbors decorate their house, hang out in the driveway to pass out candy, and know everyone by name. In this day in age, rarely do neighbors gather outside as a community of people, as it seems the daily life of quick hellos have become the norm. However, Halloween seems to be the one exception to this daily life, and how great is it to get people outside the four walls of their house to associate with one another!? I had a great childhood with awesome neighbors growing up and for my kids to have neighbors they associate with is pretty important to me. :) I think I also fell asleep to a popular theme song "...where everybody knows your name.." every night once Santa brought me a TV when I turned 9, which maybe led to some hopeful dreaming.
Back to the trick-or-treating fun, the kids did surprisingly well considering the 72 hours prior were pretty much non-stop. I think usually people give a little extra to the little kids, assuming they won't get to trick or treat as far as the older kids. However, my little energizer bunnies just go and go and go. This means, loads and loads of candy!! Which in turn means momma needs extra workouts at the gym. I hope everyone's Halloween's were happy and full of too much candy and a lot of fun!

Back on the Bandwagon..

2009-11-03T18:03:00.005-05:00

Our little 3 day getaway was a huge hit and I'm having a hard time getting back to our routine after such fabulousness! We ended up hanging out with a few other families we're close with while in Orlando, which made for even more fun for not only us, but the kids as well. Hours were spent at our hotels' water parks, we hung out for a day at Disney (Magic Kingdom), and ended our trip with a fun night at a Hibachi grill with our entire party. Oh, and I think my favorite thing of all was a trip to Fuddruckers. I'm probably the only person who has never been to one, which quite frankly, was probably a good thing. The food was great, their dessert bar was so adorable (with all kinds of cakes, hard ice cream, cookies, etc.) and the service was excellent. With 5 kids, I LOVE the kind of restaurants where you walk up order and in a matter of minutes your food is ready, and amazingly everyones patience is still in tact!

Here's a few pics from our fun weekend away. I can't tell you how easy and great is was to take a baby-free vacation!!
(Don't mind the crap quality of the pics..they we're taken with my point and shoot..)

We came back on Halloween just in time for the kids to trick or treat, which I will save for another post this week. Maybe I should also make a post this week about how I'm going to lose the FIVE pounds I gained after a 3 day vacation. Between Disney food, Dunkin Donuts and Fuddruckers, I just don't think it can get much fattier than that!

A Little Laughter.

2009-10-28T22:22:00.003-04:00

Before we head out for the weekend for a much needed family vaca, I'll leave you with a little sneak peak from our wedding last weekend. Jackie is so beautiful, inside and out and her carefree, super sweet, smiling self left such an imprint on me (Seriously. I am not just saying that). I honestly cannot tell you how much I love love love my job. Never in a million years did I think I would be where I am today, but know I am so grateful. Working with people like Rod and Jackie and making new friends with each wedding I shoot makes me feel like a pretty lucky girl. On that note, here she is in (one of my) favorite pictures from the day. Oh, and how can you not adore the three little girls around her. They just melts my heart!! Have a great weekend and Happy Halloween!!

After Much Work...It's Time for Play!

2009-10-27T08:46:00.000-04:00

After weddings the last four weekends straight (two of them in West Palm), my family and I are taking a much needed, little getaway to Orlando this weekend. Although we don't have many plans, I have no doubt there will very little down time. We're staying at the Nickelodeon hotel (www.nickhotel.com) which is always great fun for the kids. Not only is the hotel big enough to fit my enormous family size (pretty much 2 bedrooms-king bed in one and bunks in the other, with a living/kitchen room) but the waterparks (yes, that's plural) keep the kids thrilled for hours on end. I'm pretty sure we'll hit up Magic Kingdom and maybe Hollywood Studios one day too, which should be interesting considering our parent-child ratio. In the years past, we've always brought a nanny (ie. my sister and the kids wonderful aunt) to help out with the craziness. For some reason, we now think we're brave enough to take it on ourselves. We're all very excited and can't wait for our little vacation!!
As a mom, it's times and memories like these that my kids remember when they're grown. Even though our family is large and spending time together as a whole has definitely become more difficult, I hope they still see great value and importance of family. Throughout this weekend of being together, I know there will be challenges and frustrating times, but I have great hope that our fun memories, loving moments and bonding experiences will leave a forever imprint in our kids hearts and lives.
I leave you with a few pics from our last trip to the Nick Hotel, which was in May earlier this year. They're obviously not the best of quality, but they're my treasures none the less. :)

Just Another Manic Monday!

2009-10-26T13:57:00.003-04:00

But, alas, it's a great day! After a lovely trip to the gym (where I almost died thanks to my friend, spin class), I took the boys to Target to get some birthday shopping done for Kevin. Of course, while shopping the boys needed lunch, so the quickest and easiest thing was the Pizza Hut pizza waiting oh so closely at the little food court. In the end, I'm pretty sure I ended up eating about 75% of THEIR lunch.
Back to birthdays, I want to wish my second oldest little (but he's really not THAT little anymore..) boy, Kevin the happiest of birthdays tomorrow. I can't believe he's turning 11. It truly seems like he was just a little mischevious 3 year old yesterday. I'm so proud of who he is becoming and how he is maturing. This boy has brains like Einstein and I can't wait to see what his future holds. I pray he grows in his relationship with God and follows His will throughout this year and the years to come. I love you buddy!! I hope you have so much fun being 11!
In other birthday news, my day last week was quite the success. I seriously had the best birthday I can remember. It started with a trip to the gym (such a love/hate relationship), then a WONDERFUL lunch at Chilis with the best friends anyone could wish for (THANKS GUYS! LOVE YOU!!). After lunch, a birthday would never be complete (at least for me) without a little shopping. Off to Miromar I went with Kyla and one of my best friends in tow. Got some great new sneaks, some clothes and just had so much fun shopping without all the boys in tow. To end the day, my sister came to babysit so Kirt and I could go do more shopping, dinner and a movie. I honestly could not have asked for anything better. Thanks to all to made my birthday so sweet and special!!!

...Keep your eyes out..coming soon is Rod and Jackie's wedding and you WON'T want to miss it- absolutely gorgeous couple and fantastic wedding!!

Ryan and Stephanie

2009-10-23T15:06:00.014-04:00

October 9, 2009
Gulf Harbor
Fort Myers, FL

When I first met with Stephanie I hoped more than anything that she would choose me to photograph her wedding. She had so many little details planned (and I am a total detail person) as well as a gorgeous ceremony/reception site. I had been looking forward to this day for quite some time and I am so thankful I had the opportunity to take part in your first day as husband and wife.

Listening to the harpist and violinist play while the waves crashed gently, yet noticeably in the background was an unforgettable sound as Stephanie crossed the bridge to begin her walk down the aisle. At the same time, seeing the anticipation on Ryan's face and then the smile as he saw his bride for the first time was even more significant. The scenery and location were just to die for, saying their vows on a private island on the river with tall palm trees and greenery all around.

Their beached theme wedding featured a gorgeous cake with sand surrounding the bottom layer, centerpieces with fishbowls and floating candles, and umbrella place cards sitting creatively in a sand creation at the entry way to the reception. A night full of dancing, smiles, kissing, football (it was the night of a big game..UF/LSU..Go Gators!), and most importantly love. A love that was so evident from beginning to end. Congratulations Ryan and Stephanie on your marriage. I wish you both a lifetime of happiness and joy. Your day was truly fabulous and I truly hope this was only the beginning of what is to come during your years together.

Dish It Thursday.

2009-10-15T17:36:00.002-04:00

As a child, my absolute favorite thing to do was play soccer. Soccer was my life from e age of 5 until well, still to this day, I'm at the soccer fields 3-4 times a week. It was where I made my friends, experienced great success and made so many memories. I traveled all over Florida playing in tournaments and the joy of winning still sticks with me to this day. Thankfully, I also gained a best friend (as well as many other friends...) through it all (LOVE you Natalie!!!). Twenty-five years later I'm at the same exact soccer fields I started on with my daughter, although now as a coach. I am enjoying every moment of her great success thus far and have great hope for a future filled with success, friendship, joy and love of a great sport.

What I'm digging...
*Coaching and watching Kyla play soccer..and play it well! The girl can run like nothing I've seen and score about 5-10 goals a game! I'm a proud mama!!!

* Wedding season. Seriously, I am having a blast during this crazy busy season!! I have a pretty amazing job and I can never express how much I absolutely LOVE it.

* My Bible. The Lord's teaching me a lot right now and I am enjoying my time in the Word. I am beyond grateful for all he's done, the grace he's given and all he's provided me with. I pray I continue to glorify him in all I do.

* The cold front coming this weekend! Okay, the high is still 82, but it's a start.

* My birthday next Tuesday!! Usually birthday's aren't a big deal for me, but for some reason, I'm excited about this one. :)

* In super exciting news, I FINALLY joined a gym this week and I am PUMPED. I couldn't be more excited (I even went TWO times yesterday!). My goal is to lose 15 pounds or so, and really tone up. Hopefully, I'll have a hot bod just in time for bathing suit season..(which we don't really have since we can swim/beach pretty much year round, but whatever. :)).

Enough Already...
* The HEAT. Enough said.

* Target. Actually I really really love Target but we have a love/hate relationship. I can never seem to get out of there with only the things on my list. But, really, who can?

I really don't have many "enough alreadys" this week because quite frankly, it's going so well! I guess it's better this way than the other. Have a great weekend! We're off to West Palm again this weekend to shoot a wedding and we can't wait!

Chris and Natalie

2009-10-12T15:02:00.004-04:00

Old Marsh Golf Club (www.oldmarshgolf.com)
West Palm Beach, FL
October 3, 2009

Four years after dating, Chris and Natalie finally took the plunge and became one. They absolutely adore each other and the smiles on their faces spoke volumes throughout the entire day. Natalie, you looked so beautiful and all of your planning was worth the months of craziness. The reception hall was immaculate, the cake was beyond stunning and all of those little details didn't go without notice. Chris, you looked pretty handsome yourself and I have no doubt you're going to make a great husband for Natalie. I wish you two the absolute best as you begin this adventure of married life together. Congratulations Chris and Natalie!

They opted to do a first look and see each other before the ceremony. I just LOVE LOVE LOVE this. It was such a special and private moment.

Dish It Thursday.

2009-10-08T22:55:00.002-04:00

In effort to get my awful blogging butt in gear, I'm going to being doing themed days. For now, we'll start with Dish It Thursday and Tips on Tuesdays. Hopefully this will keep me accountable! Dish it Thursday's are going to consist of my likes and dislikes going on that week. Without futher ado...

Dislikes:
* I have been up every single night past 1 am this week, doing who even knows what. I'm not a fan of sleep, but here and there I need more than 5 hours. Unfortunately, it doesn't look like this will be happening soon.
* I'm going to the U2 concert tomorrow and am not really looking forward to it. I know, I'm weird. I got the tickets for my hubby for father's day. I know I'm the coolest wife ever. :)
* My baby girl was sick earlier this week (Sunday and Monday) and now seems to have a fever again. Hate this for her. :(
* The weather. Can the beautiful fall weather please be here already? Sooo ready to open the windows!

Likes:
*I'm going to Tampa tomorrow (U2 concert. ugh.) and get to spend lots of time with just me and the hubby. THIS I am looking forward to. I would just rather be shopping or eating together. :)
* AMAZING wedding this Saturday at Gulf Harbor in Fort Myers. Should be a FAB event and can't wait to see everything they've planned!
* LOVING football. Seriously, there's nothing better than football. GO GATORS AND HAWKEYES!!! (both of my teams are still undefeated!!!).

Little Charlie

2009-10-07T00:27:00.011-04:00

A few months ago, I blogged “Baby Makes Five” about a friend of mine who was expecting their 3rd baby girl and I am excited to announce she is finally here. Little Charley has the most precious little face, adorable rolling skin and a mohawk any rocker would be jealous of. Seriously. I went to visit Charley the day after she was born and I remember just staring at her doll like face thinking how perfect she was. Seven weeks later, nothing has changed and although she wasn’t really digging the camera, we still managed to get some cute shots of her so you can see exactly what I mean. Congratulations Tracey and Jason on your newest addition, little Charlotte Ruth!

Family Frameables of the Day

2009-08-15T23:22:00.005-04:00

We had a great day attending Project Backpack at Estero Park today. Our church (www.summitlife.com..check it out!!) partnered with 4 other churches in the area to give out 4,000 backpacks today at 4 different events around Lee and Collier county. The day was great and was hopefully a blessing to those in need. I have quite a few shots from today, but I'll just leave with my 2 family favorites....

At first glance this picture not be anything special, but when you look closer you'll see my little Jonah's reflection (click to enlarge pic) in my husband's sunglasses and now I feel this "pictures' worth a thousand words". Seriously, the love and happiness from being a parent is unlike anything else on earth...

Have a great Sunday!

Derek and Theresa

2009-08-14T22:54:00.006-04:00

August 1st
Ritz Carlton, Naples, FL
St. Agnes Catholic Church, Naples, FL
The Colony Golf and Country Club, Bonita Springs, FL

I've put off blogging about this wedding because I truly didn't even know where to start. I never thought my job could be filled with so many emotions for people I hardly even knew. From great happiness, as these two people who have such love for each other get to spend forever together, to sadness, as Theresa danced with her dad (I think my sister and I were both bawling behind the cameras.. we're such saps!) and most of all laughter. Let me say it again... L A U G H T E R. I think we laughed the entire night away. Who wouldn't when you see the groom and his boys dance to Backstreet Boys "I Want It That Way", as if they were on Broadway, making sure to include all necessary theatricals.
The church and ceremony we're breathtaking, the reception was nothing short of an AMAZING party and the couple we're adorably in love with each other. It can't get much better. People came from Germany, England and Canada to attend this wedding and I have no doubt that as they left that night they were so delighted they came, knowing it was well worth their travels.
Congratulations Derek and Theresa. I hope you guys are having a blast traveling all over the states and Canada!! You guys are truly amazing and I hope that as you continue life together the fun and laughter you two have with each other just grows and grows. I am grateful and thankful to consider you two friends (and facebook makes it official, right? haha).

Baby Makes Five

2009-07-30T23:25:00.001-04:00

Contagious laughter and her envious smile is the first thing that comes to mind when I think of Tracy. Seriously, this girl can laugh and smile and it leaves you no choice but to do the same! I had so much fun today shooting her maternity pics of soon-to-be-born baby Charley (a.k.a Charlotte). Her family is super adorable and although our outside pictures pretty much got nixed due to the weather, we still were able to get a few good shots. Enjoy! :)

Summer Days

2009-07-28T20:58:00.010-04:00

As our "off-wedding season" comes to an end I thought I would share some of our typical life-in-our-house summer pics. There are many times where our home is crazy and loud, especially with 5 kids, but there is always great fun, a load of laughter and countless irreplaceable memories that I am so thankful I get to make each and every day with my kids. As our summer winds down, with only 3.5 weeks to go, I'm a little sad (especially because my only little girl leaves me for Kindergarden), a little happy and as much as I dread the summer when the school year comes to an end, I know deep down I love spending that much more time with my kids. Yeah, I have more cleaning to do (A LOT for that matter...), more fights to break up, and more lunches and snacks to make, I also have that much more time to give and receive love from my babies.
Alright, enough of the sappiness, and on to a few recent pics...

Our day always starts with a lovely, brotherly breakfast (which translates to food usually be thrown and/or spilled all over the floor..)

Next, we move on for some mid-morning fun, which often consists of pool, slip and slide (ie. anything to stay COOL in this ungodly heat!!)

Throughout the day, begging to play the Wii is a constant.

I always know lunch time is near once Jonah starts trying to eat toys, as if they were his sandwich.

We love to play in the rain!

Jonah seriously has the best expressions ever. Ps. My house really isn't orange. The darn iron from our sprinklers always leave us some nice coloration. :)

I wish I was talented enough to grow something this pretty. Always thankful for God's work!! (Seriously though, I think this came from the neighbors yard.)

SOOO in love with my little man (and I NEVER thought I would have SUCH a blondie!)

Carter, after a hard day's work! Love this little guy. He's pretty much the funniest kid ever. Seriously, have one conversation with him, and you'll agree. :)

Disclaimer: I do HAVE two other older boys, but they are too cool and too busy these days for their momma!! :)

Anyway, wedding season is on it's way, starting this Saturday, August 1st with Derek and Theresa!! We are so excited to be a part of your special day guys. Be ready for some pics about this time next week from their big day! It's going to be beautiful! Now, off to watch the Bachelorette: After the Final Rose Ceremony...because I'm a nerd like that. :)

My Little Slice of Heaven..

2009-06-30T15:59:00.003-04:00

My camera (Canon 5d, Mark ii) FINALLY shipped!!! After over a month of waiting, it's on it's way and should be here next week!! I am soo excited to get my hands on it, play with it and shoot with it. I also ordered a a new lens, Canon L series 24-70mm 2.8, which should be here on Thursday. Yay!! This thing is sweet. Seriously. I've shot with it before and the sharp images and amazing color is to die for. My poor kids always dread the new camera/lens days because they know what's in store. A little bribery never hurt anything though, right?

The 5d also takes video clips too so all those brides who have booked, I hope you don't mind a little bit of video throw in as well. :) I also recently got The Flip (Check it out: http://www.theflip.com/). I seriously don't know where I've been that I had no idea what these were until last week, but it was a MUST HAVE. It's so small, convenient and takes up to 2 hours of video. I ABSOLUTELY LOVE it and will be sure to bring it to the weddings as well!!

It's been a long day with the kids, so I'm thinking maybe a trip to the pool is in store for us. Happy Tuesday!!

A Sweeeeet Weekend

2009-06-28T22:55:00.003-04:00

I LOVE my family and I LOVE nothing better than spending a whole weekend with them. I really do think I have the best family is whole world. ;) Saturday was spent with my hubby and our 5 kids just shopping, hanging out and spending time together. I know it sounds weird, but I feel we rarely get these moments anymore. So often, it is much easier for me to just take one kid and run to the store, and since the two little boys came along I feel our family outings have definitely changed. We had a great time though, with plenty of laughs and tons of love. I love my kids and seriously, the make each day brighter, happier and fuller.

Sunday we totally took the morning off, besides a bit of cleaning here and there. After lunch, my sister and I met with a potential client who is awesome and has such a beautiful wedding planned. Then, my sister and I made a trip down to Ave Maria University, where my dad recently signed on to be the new golf coach. We are so excited for him. Okay, and the school/town is AMAZING. Seriously, any takers for a wedding in that church? I'd pretty much die to shoot there. ;) Tonight, my wonderful mother took the three older kids for a sleepover tonight while my dad stayed at my house and watched the younger boys while my hubby, sister and I went to Moe's (YUM) and to see My Sister's Keeper. Movie was a tearjerker. Seriously. However, it was such a great dose of reality of people's lives around the world and the daily dealings of cancer (HATE that word.). Anyway, a great movie that will make you appreciate all life has to offer.

Now it's midnight and I have two little boys up for a midnight snack...oh, the life of a mom!!!

Little Aubrey

2009-06-25T15:23:00.003-04:00

There truly is nothing more precious and sweet than a brand new baby. I know it's so cliche and people say it all the time, but really, truly it is so magical. I could hold, stare and love on them all day long without ever getting bored. They are just so perfect, in all ways. It's amazing something so small, something that can't even talk and something so helpless is capable of changing the way you live, the way you love and the person you are.
Yesterday, I had the privilege of doing a little photo shoot with Aubrey. She was born to my wonderful neighbors a mere 4 days ago and is seriously cute as a button!! She loved being in her momma's arms, but we were still able to get a few good shots. Congrats Jeff and Danielle and big brother Nathan!

Dave and Alicia

2009-06-24T20:59:00.008-04:00

May 9, 2009
The Colony Golf and Country Club
Bonita Springs, Florida

Alicia (my wonderful second shooter and even better sister) and I had so much fun shooting Dave and Alicia's wedding, we almost forgot we weren't guests! Seriously, this couple was just so down to earth and absolutely hilarious we felt like we fit right in. Their ceremony was small, simple, yet so romantic and charming. You'll notice an after ceremony picture below, when Dave is showing Alicia his forgotten dress socks..you know, the same socks she reminded him NOT to forget a hundred times. Way to welcome a girl to wifehood!! :) The reception was so fun, food was delicious and we were so thankful we got to spend the day with them!! Thanks guys, we wish you nothing but a lifetime of happiness, laughter and joy.

Well, I Officially Nominate Myself for...

2009-06-09T15:09:00.005-04:00

WORST blogger EVER! I have many excuses, none of which you want to hear, I'm sure. Life's been busy and fun (minus the two week period every single person in my household..yes, count them, that is SEVEN..was sick. ugh.). We also had an amazing roadtrip, all 7 of us, up to Virginia. We had a fun stay in Orlando and Georgia along the way as well. It was our first family vacation without our wonderful, lovely nanny and best sister in the world, Alicia. :) We definitley missed her but had such a great time just being a family. More about the reason behind our drive up to Virginia later and I promise you'll want to read it. :) Give you three hints..she's gorgeous, he's handsome, and they are insanely perfect for each other. :) Anyway, totally fun time had by all and I guess I should make a post, with pictures of course, with a detailed log of our vacation. Hopefully this week my blogging will catch up to life in the present.
In other exciting news:
1. Met with a super genuine and nice couple, Derek and Theresa and am really exciting about their wedding. Especially their after wedding shoot at the Ritz. That place is crazy gorgeous and I have no doubt we will walk away that day with some fantastic shots!!

2. I just ordered an amazing new Canon L series lens. It is sweeeet and will likely become my next baby.
http://http://www.adorama.com/CA2470AFU.html
I am very excited to use it!!! I got to play with one during our vaca to Virginia and just had to have it. :)

3. I have been so busy orgnanizing and it feels soooo good!! My house has always been picked up because I'm so picky about that, but rarely is it organized and super clean. However, I must say things have changed and I am becoming a clean freak. I LOVE it!

4. Check out our new twitter and facebook page. While your at it, follow us and become our fan. You know you want to!!
http://twitter.com/mariaglassford
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Maria-Glassford-Photography/88829519893?ref=ts

Alright, off to bake (and eat!) some chocolate chip cookies. I will be posting about Dave and Alicia's wedding sometime today or tomorrow. Hopefully writing it down will keep me accountable! :)

It's Steaming in Here!

2009-05-12T21:35:00.002-04:00

Happy Mother's Day to me! :) The only thing I really asked for, besides the white on white Publix cake (a MUST have for every occassion in my book) was the Shark Hand Steamer. I LOVE LOVE LOVE my Shark floor steamer and have been eyeing this hand held one for a few months now. My lovely husband surprised me with it yesterday and I was pretty much addicted to steaming my house all day long today. Poor little Carter was actually terrified our house was going to start on fire this morning. :) That boy cracks me up. I steamed my dining room table, counters, walls, garbage can and the list goes on. I think I may actually love this one even more than my floor steamer.

In other news, stay tuned to a post later this week of Alicia and David's wedding from this past weekend! Get ready because she looked gorgeous and the wedding was absolutely lovely! Congrats, guys!

My Little, Middle Lovlies

2009-05-05T18:29:00.008-04:00

I LOVE photography. Absolutely LOVE. I play and shoot with my camera practically everyday. It's pretty much always attached to my hip..or eye for that matter. However, rarely do I do "photoshoots" with my kids and quite honestly it's because I don't like to. :) I LOVE, and I mean absolutely adore each ounce of their being but when it comes to taking their pictures, let's just say all cooperation flies out the door. My kids just don't listen to me or cooperate the same way everyone else's do once the camera whips out. I'm pretty sure when my beloved camera appears they shudder at the sight. Mind you, I'm not even one of those mom's who is constantly saying "smile" or "look at the camera", etc.
The other day my wonderful husband called me and asked me to come out to an awesome park where he goes to for work a few times a year. I figured it would be a great opportunity to take some new "photos" of the kids, rather than the daily "pictures" of our little field trips. This shoot only included our middle three, as our oldest was in school still and our youngest was kept in the stroller, for my sake. :)
For the most part, I'm happy with the results. Here's my three middles, oh so lovely, fun, and each absolutely unique in their own way.

Natalie's Luncheon Tea

2009-04-26T10:01:00.012-04:00

What an unbelievably fabulous event! From the absolutely beautiful soon to be bride to the gorgeous china where we sipped tea while savoring the most delicious of foods. Entering into the soft sounds of the piano playing in the background and the to-die-for Norman Love Confections for desert, no detail went without notice. Spectacular truly doesn't even sum up the day. However, I hope the pictures do the shower some justice as to the true beauty of it all.
Natalie, I have no doubt your marriage and life together will be just as beautiful as yesterday! I love you and cannot wait for your big day in just a matter of weeks!

How I Love Thee...

2009-04-25T00:18:00.004-04:00

I discovered (okay, I'll give credit where credit is due...my sister actually discovered it first and showed me) the absolute greatness of bare Minerals makeup. If you aren't using this stuff, it is so fantastic and you should go get some. Now. I don't feel like I'm wearing it, it goes on great and I feel like the coverage is so great! Alright, so here's my ode to my most wonderful makeup bag...and most importantly, whats on the inside because that's what counts, right?

Last Day of Spring Break

2009-04-14T15:51:00.007-04:00

I am completely ready to jump back into our normal routine come tomorrow!! Truthfully though, what is spring break in Florida without one visit to the beach? We finally made it happen today. We, meaning me and my entourage of kids. Luckily, we met up with my inlaws though, which made things a whole lot easier. The weather was a bit crazy today as we are getting some late afternoon showers. This made for some big (well, for the Gulf..) waves, crazy winds and a bit of cloudiness. It was one of those days where the breaking waves and gusts of wind were so loud that your kids could easily ignore the calling of their name without being in trouble. Regardless, we had a great time and can't wait to do it again hopefully many more times this summer!

The Boyd's

2009-04-06T16:13:00.013-04:00

Adorable. I think this word best sums up the Boyd family and especially their 3 precious (and quite photogenic!!) little girls. They were such troopers the whole time, especially as the Florida heat started kicking in. We managed to get some great shots that I am absolutely in love with. I really feel like just looking through their photos, I can totally see each girls personality shine right through. Thanks guys for yesterday, I had so much fun capturing your awesome family!!!!

Also, I can't even tell you what an awesome job Ali did putting outfit ensembles together for the whole family. The colors were so bold, colorful and totally something I would never have thought to put together. So, if your ever in need of a wardrobe stylist, see me, I have the perfect person!!

Kyla Jean

2009-04-01T22:42:00.000-04:00

We had a super fun photo shoot tonight and I never realized how much attitude and personality a little 5 year old could truly have!!! She was loving the attention and broke out into some awesome poses like shes been doing it her whole life!!
My favorite:

My Tree

2009-03-25T22:40:00.001-04:00

So, I mentioned in one of my previous posts the lovely tree blooming in my front yard. I figured I would take a picture of it today just so you could see why I am loving it so much. Now, once you see it your probably going to laugh because it really isn't very full but it puts a smile on my face everytime I look at my window.

PS. I should also mention this is only one side of the tree. It's much bigger than it looks in the picture and actually has a super cute wooden swing on the other side. :)

A Walk Through The Woods

2009-03-24T15:11:00.001-04:00

My dad and I took the 3 youngest, as well as his dog, Rudy, and one of ours, Charlie, for a stroll through the woods (okay, it was technically some preserved park, but I don't remember the name...). The kids had a fun time exploring, playing and running through all the sand. Carter loved all the sticks laying around and pretended they were guns (total boy.). Afterwards, we grabbed some Chickfila and headed for more fun at Boppas house where they played with Rudy, banged on the drums and played some golf. Great day, great fun and great memories. It doesn't get much better than that.
My dad keeping an eye on his grandkids. I love this picture.

Carter runs like a man. I think I may start bribing him to run because it absolutely cracks me up.

Sweet, sweet Jonah.

7 Years and 3 Kids Later

2009-03-23T14:16:00.000-04:00

For the second time and much to my husbands delight, we attended this weekends Florida Airshow. The first time we went we were a family of 4 and this time, a family of 7. It's crazy to think about how different our lives are now compared to then. I'm also pretty sure the workout was about 3 times as much as it was 7 years ago.
We had a blast though and saw some of the most fascinating stunts and tricks. I often wonder how they practice these things. Six Blue Angel jets, costing over 28 million a peice, oh, you know flying less than 18 inches away from one another, going over 400 mph. Hmm..maybe we're not so crazy ourselves. Anyway, they were absolutely awesome, as were all of the other jets and planes. I secretly also loved it because Jonah was pretty terrified of the loud noise so he was extra cuddly and didn't want to leave our arms most of the day.
For the most part, all of the kids had fun yesterday. Kyla wasn't too thrilled about the day in general, as I'm sure she would rather have been shopping or doing the typical things a 5 year old girl does. However, when she coincidently ran into her "boyfriend" (...same boy from preschool that she has been in love with for over 1.5 years...), her mood instantly changed. Sean and Kevin had fun checking out all the vendors and hanging out with each other. Now that Sean has a super cool cell phone, he also has a little bit of independence, so Kevin and him did their own thing for much of the day. This is why there are such few pictures of them, but I promise they were there! Without further ado....some pics from the day!

10 Things I'm Loving Right Now

2009-03-17T15:59:00.000-04:00

(note: this is besides the obvious of husband, kids, etc.)

1. Carabbas Filet Mignon and Garlic Mashed Potatoes, with a side of fettucini alfredo (holy carbs!). This meal and I are a match made in heaven.

2. I love that my wonderful daughter tells me, "she needs to find a husband first" (when talking about when she grows up). I'm sure this is in part to the wonderful Disney Princess movies who fail to show the cleanup duties of a wife. Thankfully, I have a few years to possibly change her "need" to a "want".

3. My Bible. I love to be in the Word and just soak it all up. There is nothing more refreshing, enlightening and encouraging.

4. My morning runs. Every morning, before all the kids wake up, I run 2 miles with my dad. I love that running with him pushes me beyond anything I could accomplish myself. Most importantly, I love that I get to spend 15 minutes or so afterwards to just talk to him every single day.

5. Photography. Yeah, a little cliche, but I really am so passionate about it. I have such a desire to learn and gain as much possibly knowledge as I can. I love to read other photographers blogs and see their photos. Besides having my children, there is nothing I have ever wanted more.

6. American Idol. In no particular order, my favorites are Matt Giraud, Adam Lambert, Danny Gokey, Scott MacIntyre, and Megan Joy. I really think it's going to be a great season as the finalists are all so talented.

7. I am LOVING that the front tree I planted in our yard 4 years ago has blossomed the most beautiful yellow flowers, signaling springs' arrival. Although it isn't very full, I love to look out my windows and just smile at the tall tree that was once the little guy I fit in my Expedition and now all 5 of my kids could climb around in it...at the same time (I see a great photo idea coming...stay posted).

8. I'm loving that I am not shopping at Costco right now. I let me card expire and because I just cannot leave that place spending less than $100 a week...on top of our normal grocery trip of $150. I absolutely LOVE Costco (..almost as much as Target..) but I am loving that I am resisting the temptation and I actually feel like we're saving money now not having the card. Just to make this clear, this is purely my fault as my ability to resist temptation while shopping is quite awful.

9. I'm really loving white textured pants like those below:

10. Soccer. I love love love soccer and I am so grateful that even as an adult I can play on a super fun team. In the fall I get to coach 2 of my kids teams (with my wonderful sister..) and I absolutely look forward to it each year. I'm so happy that the sport my life was centered around as a kid and teenager is still such a lively happening in my life.

Life is so good. I am grateful. I am blessed. I am thankful.

Just For Fun...

2009-03-12T15:52:00.000-04:00

I asked these questions to my lovely 5 year old (actually, she would correct me on this and say 5 1/2) daughter, Kyla. It was so fun to hear her answers!! I think I may do this again in 6 months to see where her answers are then.

1. What is something mom always says to you? I love you.
2. What makes mom happy? Cleaning up my room.
3. What makes mom sad? If I don't clean up my room.
4. How does your mom make you laugh? Tickling me
5. What did your mom like to do as a child? Kiss my dad
6. How old is your mom? I dont know. "Guess", (me). 16.
7. How tall is your mom? 6000 feet.
8. What is her favorite thing to watch on TV? Football.
9. What does your mom do when you're not around? Go shopping.
10. If your mom becomes famous, what will it be for? Marrying somebody. (huh???)
11. What is your mom really good at? Playing soccer.
12. What is your mom not very good at? Playing soccer when her legs hurt.
13. What does your mom do for her job? Makes her bed and folds laundry.
14. What is your mom's favorite food? chocolate chip cookies
15. What makes you proud of your mom? when she blows kisses
16. If your mom were a cartoon character, who would she be? Minnie..then Cinderella
17. What do you and your mom do together? Play board games
18. How are you and your mom the same? Were both girls
19. How are you and your mom different? God just makes us that way.
20. How do you know your mom loves you? Because God made her to love children.
21. What does your mom like most about your dad? We both watch TV together.
22. Where is your mom's favorite place to go? The ice cream store.

PS. About her being 5 1/2, when she counts now she counts: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 5 1/2, 6, etc. Apparently, since I told her the news of her hitting the half way mark to her next birthday, our entire number system has changed as well. She cracks me up!!!

Little Nya Jane

2009-03-12T14:32:00.001-04:00

On Tuesday, I had the absolute pleasure of shooting the most precious little baby, Nya Jane. She is so beautiful and it was so nice to get to play with a little newborn again!! There is truly nothing like the miracle of a new baby and new life. It is one thing that I truly think will always amaze, astound and fascinate me to no end. Her mom, who happens to be one of my closest friends, jumped in a few pictures as well (when she wasn't busy chasing her other two or my three while we were there..). Things went great, we got some great shots, no kids got hurt and thankfully Carter didn't try to jump off the half wall at the top of the stairs (the joy of boys..). Thanks Nya and Vicky for being fabulous models!! Heres a few of my favorites from our morning together...

Mock Trial

2009-03-08T17:02:00.001-04:00

Today I shot a mock trial of my beautiful, most wonderful sister, Alicia. Her wedding date is yet to be determined, as is her husband, but we had so much fun with it anyway! We hot rolled her hair, bought a dress, arranged some flowers and we headed to downtown Fort Myers. I truly believe this has got to be one of the best and most unique places to photograph. The architechture, colors and overall scene is so fresh and fun; I just love it! We had so much fun and I am grateful I got to spend such a beautiful day with my only sister.