Tuesday, July 26, 2011

A Classic, Timeless Love: Brian + Dawn

Dawn and Brian married on a beautiful day in June. Their ceremony was small and quaint, with their closest friends and family.

They actually married on the wedding anniversary of Dawn’s mom and dad, who have been married for 50 years.

What special moments were shared during the traditional, Catholic ceremony at St. Joseph Cathedral on the campus of St. Mary’s College. The sun shined bright, as the two exchanged marriage vows, shared their first communion together - and of course, their first kiss as husband and wife.

From there, the priceless moments continued at a beautiful reception at Tippecanoe Place. The pair shared in many kisses, dancing and cherished exchanges with friends and family.

We were privileged to share in such beautiful memories with the happy pair and are quite certain these two will share 50+ years together, themselves. Congrats to you Dawn and Brian!






























Friday, July 22, 2011

Just BREATHE

It's amazing how moments pass us by. I often think about moments I've seen come and go. If I'm honest, there have been quite a few in my life time. I hate that feeling. I think sometimes we get so caught up in life's struggles - daily worries - we forget to notice what's right in front of us. We forget to realize that we've been blessed with a new day - to perhaps, make up for some of those LOST moments.

I feel beyond blessed most days. Becoming a mother has made me realize how even more beautiful life is. Not that I didn't think it was before motherhood - but I'm much more aware - I'm much more 'honed' in on how precious life truly is - and how much of a blessing it truly is.

While I can't control life's struggles, the ups and downs, I'm grateful for the MOMENTS that make up my life. Sure, sometimes I worry and struggle with the 'little things', the disappointments - but in the grand scheme of things, those things just don't matter. What matters is the HERE - the NOW. After all, who knows if I'll be here tomorrow - and what good is it to worry and fret about the 'little things' - the things we have no control over?

There is so much beauty and joy all around us, if we just stop, take a breather, and stand in awe of it. So today, on this beautiful Friday morning, STOP, just BREATHE, then take a look around you, and marvel in the moments that make up your life – before they pass you by – and you forget what a blessing they really are.

The JOY of my life - my son Eli Joseph. :) [7 months]

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

Girls Just Want to Have Fun! [Sisters: Ali and Aubrey]

A sister is a forever friend.

I've known Ali and Aubrey since they were wee little ones. What a privilege it's been to watch them grow and share in their lives. They're precious girls and not only am I privileged to know them, but I'm also so blessed to call their parents FRIENDS. These young ladies are who they are today, because of their parents. Garth and Amanda - you guys are doing an amazing job with your precious girls! :)

There is something special about SISTERS. If you have a sister, you know what I mean. If you don't, you probably have a friend out there who's LIKE a sister. There is a BOND that is so special - so unique - so needed in this crazy world. I'm reminded of my own SISTER bonds, with my three sisters. What joys we've shared - turmoils we've endured, together - MOMENTS we've been able to make throughout the years - these are memories I hold dear and will never ever forget, nor take for granted. I can't even begin to describe how blessed I am to have a sister, let alone three!

And while Ali and Aubrey are still young, and probably haven't quite figured out just yet, how much they'll appreciate and need each other later in life, I know they'll someday look back on the moments they might not have gotten along so great, and hold tight the special bond they'll ALWAYS share - the bond of sisterhood.

Amanda, thank you for letting me capture the sweet interactions between your girls - they are precious and oh so sweet!

There's a special kind of freedom sisters enjoy. Freedom to share innermost thoughts, to ask a favor, to show their true feelings. The freedom to simply be themselves.

















Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Engaged! John + Kara

John and Kara are a special couple. They've been together for nearly 16 years and they're tying the knot in October!

I've been privileged to know the pair since high school and am completely honored that they chose us to capture their special day!

A few weekends ago, we ventured out to Notre Dame for their engagement photos - and what troopers they were! They braved some intense heat, climbed up trees, and simply, had a lot of fun together!

Genuine interaction is simply the best and these two most definitely adore each other and the time they share together.

We are so happy for you both and can't wait until your wedding in October!