Lange Family | Robert C. Beutter Park: City of Mishawaka

I've known Kelly for over half my life. She has been one of my dearest friends - and I'm blessed that I've been able to document so many 'moments' over the years for her.

Had some fun with her, her hubby and two sweetie pie babies a few weeks ago. It was a beautiful November day - filled with PERFECT smiles - and new memories.

30 Days of Gratefulness | Day 6 | Democracy

If you think about the idea that we have the ability to vote who will lead our great nation, it's a pretty marvelous idea. Many countries around the globe, do not have this privilege. Let alone have this privilege and are actually safe when casting their vote.

Today is monumental. As every election is. And today, I'm incredibly grateful that men and women have gone before me, fought great battles, to give me this right to VOTE.

Democracy is a beautiful thing - and should never be taken for granted. Thankful for the privilege it is to be FREE.

"America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed ourselves. ~Abraham Lincoln

30 Days of Gratefulness | Day 5 | Nieces & Nephews

Next to being a mom, the next greatest honor and privilege, is to be an aunt. I have the cutest, most wonderful nieces and nephews a girl could ask for. And I'm so thankful for every single one of them - the joy they bring - and the love they give - even the ones that aren't exactly related by blood! ;) LOVE THEM ALL SO VERY MUCH!

30 Days of Gratefulness | Day 4 | FRIENDS

So I know some of these photographs aren't the greatest - but I love them! Because they're little moments that were shared among friends. I'm so thankful for the women and men in my life that I get to call FRIENDS. TRUE friends. Some of them I live near - others a bit farther away - but despite the distance, and sometimes the time that passes before we all see each other again, I'm so grateful that I have these beautiful people in my life. They're my 'brothers' and 'sisters' that God has enriched this amazing life with.

Merry Christmas!

What a year. What a beautiful year. We cannot even express the amazing moments we've experienced this year. Plus, the amazing people we've met. It's strange to think 2011 is nearing an end. Yet looking back, it's so encouraging to see where we were at, and where we're going. God is good.

The year has had it challenges, its ups and downs, failures, successes - moments, we'll never forget. Memories, we'll cherish for years to come. Friends that will last a lifetime.

Thank you - to each of you - who let us come into your homes, share your most special days, capture your memories - we are humbled that we were privileged to share those with all of you.

From Erin and I, we wish you ALL, our friends, a VERY Merry Christmas. Make the most of this year with your family and friends - cherish all the moments and memories you'll make. Laugh a lot. Eat cookies and cake. Smile when it might get stressful. Take LOTS of pictures.

In the words of Andy Rooney, remember that "One of the most glorious messes in the world is the mess created in the living room on Christmas Day. Don't clean it up too quickly." :-)

Many Blessings and Merry Christmas!

 

The Kovach Family | Mishawaka, IN

The Kovach's are dear friends and I must say, they're incredibly adorable and so much fun to be around.

We ventured out in the frigid temperatures a few weeks ago, to snap a few family photos and what troopers! They make cold look good! ;)

Their little one Orion is a little charmer and their oldest Jaxon is such a little gentleman - and Matt and Michelle - they are oh so sweet in so many ways.

Had a blast spending some time with them!