Welcome to Veldman Photo's Blog

Kris & Renee :: Wedding

2012-01-19T14:28:00.004-05:00

Seattle, baby!

That is one place I would love to go. I'm sure I'll make it out there one day, but until then, I'll just live vicarioiusly through friend's who travel or move there.

Speaking of moving there, that is exactly what my friend, Renee, just did.

If you remember the lovely yogini, Renee, who I used to practice with... well her and her beau, Kris, decided to share a small, intimate ceremony with a few friends and family a couple months back. It was such an honor to be apart of it and what a sweet ceremony it was... full of love, smiles, and lots of laughter. She even wore her grandmother's original wedding dress. I could not believe it... everything was special and meaningful to them and suited their personalities so great!

But then, the next day, she picked up her life her and moved all the way across country to Seattle. She's such brave and spontaneous soul... I think that's why I love her so much!

Congratulations you two... I am so glad I got to be a part of such a monumental point in your lives. I wish you NOTHING, but the best!

XOXOXO!

Check out some of my favorites from their special ceremony and after photos...

Secret special place to be married... It's gorgeous...

Who doesn't love a wedding with their best friend as the maid of honor... Woof!!!

Such a beautiful Bride...

He's beaming... LOVE IT!

Never a dull moment with them...

At last...

You know me... I love the exit!!!

And for some fun photos...

Kris, you are so handsome...

And Renee... WOW... so stunning...

x

Haha...

YES... I'm sure all wedding couples are jealous seeing this is what they wore for theirs...

Mmmm... in LOVE...

Love Renee's dress...

Brandon & Diana :: Engagements

2012-01-17T14:59:00.003-05:00

Who doesn't love a good fireman?

I know I sure do. I grew up with both my aunt and uncle being fire fighters, and we would have so much fun going to visit their fire station. We would do the usual, try on the boots, jacket, hat... so fun! The best part, by far, was sliding down the pole. What a rush! I wonder if that's how the actual fire fighters feel whenever they go for a run. I should really ask my father-in-law, since he was a fireman for years down in Highland Park.

But I find now a days, I don't come across many fire fighters. I guess I don't know very many who are still in that profession or just don't run around in that crowd. Well... until just recently, when I met up with Brandon and Diana for a fun engagement session.

Brandon is actually a fireman down in Ohio and he's so young! You don't find many firemen out there, let alone so young... what a brave soul he is and what sweet souls both Diana & Brandon have. Both of them were so calm, laid back, and SO down to earth. They were extremely kind hearted and EXTREMELY loving towards each other! That's the best! You can just tell how head over heels they are for one another. Makes me love my job even more. I had so much fun chatting with them and getting to know them as they are so fun to be around. I'm so excited for their wedding here in a few months. What a fun day it is going to be and if it's anything like this weather, by then it might be 60 degrees. Wooo!

So excited... Congrads you two!

Check out a few of my favorites from our session...

Umm... cutest couple alert!!!

Mmm... LOVE!

Adorable...

LOVE this one...

So fun...

This is their special blanket that they love... I'm so glad they brought it, it totally brightened up their photos...

Precious....

They are so cute together...

This is where they first fell in love... What a special place!

Matt & Caitlin :: Engagements

2012-01-13T14:16:00.003-05:00

I love a good love story...

I guess that's why I love weddings so much. I mean LOVE weddings... with CAPS LOCK on! Ha!

LOVE makes me smile and laugh and get butterflies all in my tummy... LOVE could seriously make this world such a better place!

I guess posting fun LOVE sessions, as I should call them, is doing my part by making this world a better place... maybe?! I'll go ahead and tell myself that.

Two of those people that are truly in love and is so evident is Matt & Caitlen!

I tell you what... When I started taking photos of them, the way they looked at each other gave me those smiles, laughs, and butterflies. They have SO much fun together and you can tell that even after sooooo many years being together, they are still head over heels in LOVE! I couldn't tell you how much fun it was to hang out with this couple.

Congratulations and we are SOOO stinkin' excited for your wedding here in just a few months!

Check out a few of my favorites from their session...

Mmm... Such a beautiful couple!!!!

HOT STUFF...

Gorg...

I'm telling you... they LOVE to laugh!!!

Ha...

This shot took some coaxing from Matt... but boy was it worth it!

LOVE it!!!

Dave & Charlene :: Engagements

2012-01-10T15:02:00.001-05:00

Haven't you always wondered what it would be like to fly a plane?

I remember when I was little my dad, who used to take flying lessons, took me to this small airport in Kokomo and a guy he knew out there let me go for a ride. I don't remember all the exact details of how exactly I was able to go up in a small plane with just this "strange" man, but I was. It was pretty neat! This "guy" even let me take the wheel for a few seconds. I thought I was so cool! Haha!

Two people who do this every day for FedEx that actually are really cool are Dave & Charlene.

Dave is an engineer for the planes and Charlene is a pilot. A-Mazing! Not only are they extremely smart, but both of them are extremely fun and beautiful people. I thought it was really neat how I did their session on a Monday early afternoon because of their flexible schedules, and mine, and we had a great time exploring the Henry Ford Museum, where they will be married this coming September. What a great couple they are and I had such a great time getting to know them much better, sharing some laughs, and catching their sweet personalities towards each other... so beautiful!

Congratulations you two... we are so excited for the BIG day!!!

Here are just a few of my favorites from our session...

Lovely Couple, eh?!!

So much in LOVE!

Mmm... so great...

XOXO!

Love those cars in the background... too bad you can't get closer!

Charlene saw a ring similar to this and Dave decided to design one like it for her... such a good listener ;)

LOVE THIS...

Matt & Angela :: Engagements

2012-01-06T13:20:00.003-05:00

Where did this heat wave come from?

I'm not quite sure, but what a nice surprise! I'm sure it'll be snowing next week, but today, I'll take it.

I have to say that the month of November was kind of like today outside... we had some great weather days, and I was able to really take advantage of those days with some pretty sweet couples.

One of those sweet couples were Matt & Angela...

Talk about a super cute couple together. They make each other laugh and smile so much, and sure do look quite nice together.

I am looking forward to their wedding this SUMMER... oh, how I dream of summer right now!

Congratulations you two...

Angela... what a beauty! I'm pretty sure Matt agrees...

Mmm... so sweet!

Nice bling!

LOVE this one!

MMM... ADORABLE!

Happy Friday!!!

Vacation is OVER...

2012-01-04T13:12:00.006-05:00

All good things must come to an end at some point right?

I'm so happy that it's a new year! It was fun to enjoy some holiday music, holiday shows, a few snow flurries, lots of laughs, lots of smiles, no workouts, and all-in-all a great end to one of the BEST years of our lives. But I was ready for the new year to be here, so we can get closer to SUMMER!!! Woo!!!

I don't know about anyone else, but I'm craving some warm sun on my face...

But the holiday was nice!

I can't tell you how great it was to just relax a bit with family and friends, and of course, our little love muffin. Jackson's first Christmas & New Year's holiday was a success! I think any year compared to last year would be a success though. I still have not been able to a eat veggie omelet since then... YUK!

But we started off our holiday by visiting my family in Indiana. Jackson and I spent a couple extra days before Todd was able to come down to share in on the fun. We had lots of fun times with these little ones...

Miss Emmie...

And Izzy B...

Yes, they both LOVE each other so much!!!

It kind of reminds me of when my sister and I were little... Haha... Fun times!

But Jackson got lots of love from the whole family, especially Izzy, she LOVES him so much... here are a few I took with my phone... along with a little video... (Sorry they are all dark, I hate using flash in their faces)

Tummy time for TWO...

Best babysitter EVER...

She had fun tickling him...

I snuck away for a little while to take some photographs of an awesome family that I have not seen since high school... those are to come soon enough. But what a BLAST that was... let's just say there were LOTS of laughs and LOTS of smiles!

After all the fun times down in Indiana, we then travelled back home to Michigan to enjoy some of our own little family time. We even formed some of our own traditions, including making these on Christmas morning...

Yes, they were as good as they look... YUM!!!

We then enjoyed some family time sharing our gifts for each other

And some fun with Todd's family... I actually forgot my camera later in the day so the rest of Christmas was undocumented, but you have my word that it was a great time! Ha!

The rest of last week was spent AWAY from the computer and enjoying baby laughs, smiles, cries (Yes, he's turned into quite the mama's boy), and snuggle sessions from both my boy's. Only one of those boy's will let me take photos of them though... haha! I did take some time to get some shots of him since he turned 4 months old... he's turning into such a fun little guy! Oh I just love him more and more each and every day...

Happy 4 months big guy!

He usually has both his fists in his mouth at the same time... haha!

I'm trying to teach him a thing or two about the camera... I think he's a natural...

I hope everyone else had a Happy Holiday and get ready for lots of posts this month as I'm catching up on the end of last year and all the fun sessions we finished it off with.

Happy 2012!!!!

Holiday Break

2011-12-29T17:22:00.002-05:00

Forgive me for my absence on here...

We are enjoying some much needed family time, but I will be back with lots of posts after the new year. We don't have many days left with Todd here at home.

Best Holiday Season thus far... it's been wonderful to share it with this handsome gem...

I hope everyone has been enjoying theirs as much as we have...

We are looking forward to what 2012 has in store!

XOXOXO!

Adam & Melissa :: Wedding

2011-12-20T15:07:00.007-05:00

How in the world did it get to be less than a week before Christmas????

I'm still in shock as I have not quite finished my shopping, but it's a bit too late, so I'll just have to wing it.

Life sure is busy, especially this time of year, with all the traveling to visit family and friends and more family and more friends...

Speaking of traveling, I'm currently hanging out with these peeps down in Indiana. (My heart is melting looking at this... I snuck it from my phone!)

We are having a BLAST, with lots of excitement and all of them are keeping us quite entertained, especially the little three year old charmer, who seriously loves all over Jackson. It's the cutest thing you've ever seen! Love it!!!

You know what else I love????

A PERFECT couple! LOVE it... and speaking of a PERFECT couple, I'm pretty sure Adam & Melissa fit just that.

A few months back, we had our first post-baby wedding, and what an amazing couple to start back up with...

Adam & Melissa are not only two of the sweetest people you've ever met, but they also have some of the sweetest friends and family you've ever met. It felt like we were just attending their wedding since everyone was so nice, outgoing, and down to earth. Their wedding was over at the Henry Ford Museum, which if anyone has not made a trip there, you MUST! It has so much interesting stuff there to check out, including trains, cars, planes, antiques, the Oscar Meijer Wiener bus, and tons more! It was absolutely beautiful!

We even had a first for us, where during the reception one of the guests had a surprise for the couple. It was a log cutting ceremony. A log cutting ceremony? Yes, exactly that! It is a Norwegian tradition where the bride and groom cut off a piece of a log to represent the "giving" and "taking" in a relationship. It was so neat!

It was the perfect wedding to start back up with... Todd and I had an absolute blast, and there were even quite a few familiar faces to hang out with!

Congratulations you guys and wish you nothing but the best in your marriage!!!!

Check out a few of my favorites and a slideshow from their wedding...

Venue: Henry Ford Museum
Flowers: TBA
Cake: TBA
DJ: TBA
Video: TBA

Melissa... all I have to say is STUNNING!

All the girls there were A-mazing... and you might even recognize one of those pretty girls from a few years back...

Adam was so handsome... and how fun it was to have lots of cool things in the background...

And all the guys were SO fun... you might even recognize another one of those groomsmen from the same wedding before... LOVE IT!!!

It's like the perfect combination... like peanut butter and jelly...

So sweet...

They can totally pull this off... Gorgeous!!!

Love them...

This was a first... a Norwegian tradition: cutting a log at the wedding representing "giving and taking" in a marrige... LOVE it!

Teammates for LIFE...

Check out a slideshow with more of their beautiful day...

Emma :: 2 years old

2011-12-12T16:38:00.003-05:00

I love the color PINK...

I have more than my share of tops that are pink, and for some reason I am drawn to that color. Todd gets on me because whenever I pink, I mean pick (Ha!), something out, it is usually PINK. It's just so fun and fresh, and it reminds me of summer flowers, bubble gum, rosy cheeks, LOVE, and my favorite: Strawberry Ice Cream... Mmmm! And let's just face it, what girl doesn't look good in pink?! Exactly!

One of those special girl's who looks quite adorable in pink, as well, is Miss Emma!

What a ball she is...

I have known Emma since she was born and boy-oh-boy is she becoming quite the character. I, seriously, love this girl! Her smile is so contagious, her spirit is absolutely the sweetest, and she is the cutest little love muffin around... it's probably because her mom and dad are A-MAZING! LOVE them! It has me excited to see how Jackson will be in a few years when his personality is in full swing. I'm really trying to cherish these moments now as he's growing so fast... Ek!

Congrads on the beauty... I've loved watching her grow and excited to see her continue over the years to come!

Check out a few of my favorites from our session...

Can we say A-DORABLE?!

Ha... she's so expressive...

SO sweet...

She's so innocent...

And fun...

Her smile is gorgeous...

Griffin :: 6 months

2011-12-08T15:46:00.003-05:00

Who doesn't love a cute baby?

It's so hard not to want to hug and squeeze them, especially when they smile, coo, and laugh at things that you do that people would seriously make fun of you for. But that's the great thing about kids... they don't care! They don't make fun of you... they really can't, but they love you and they love all the fun things that you may do.

I used to chuckle when it came to how parents would make their kids smile. I've heard numerous songs, especially Twinkle, Twinkle, jumping up and down, lots of tongues sticking out and other funny faces, lots of toys that sing, squeak, or make noises, a few cell phones with daddy's voice on the other end... whatever it takes to get some smiles! I chuckle because when they did end up grinning, it was like the world melted and my heart melted with it! It was so sweet... and I've learned a thing or two from all my clients. You do whatever it takes to get the shot... even if you are jumping up and down, making monkey noises with lots of hand gestures... oh yes, you do WHATEVER it takes.

I especially love a baby who has such fun facial expressions, fun hair, fun smiles, and is an all around easy going baby.

Enter Griffin...

He is one of the cutest babies, with such handsome curls and the sweetest face and smile! I wanted to hug and squeeze him to pieces! He did so good and was such a champ even if he did fall out of his little chair his mama made. He shook it off and kept working the camera. I cannot wait to watch him grow into such a handsome boy!

Congratulations you guys... we are so glad to have met him FINALLY and share in on the fun time in your lives!

Check out a few of my favorites from our session...

ADORABLE...

LOVE this one...

So stinkin' cute...

Look at that face... aghhh...

Haha...

Such a beautiful family...

Who adore him... he's so lucky!

A little confused on why he's sitting in the leaves with a "G"... he'll get it when he's older... adorable!

Look at those EYES...

I'm thinking the yawning meant it was a wrap...

Miss Eden :: 2 Years Old

2011-12-06T16:19:00.002-05:00

Good news...

I LOVE good news. Good news always puts a smile on my face, and I love it when people share their good news.

Good news is a WIN-WIN situation... Ha!

When I showed up to take Miss Eden's two year photos, their parents were all smiles and after asking how I was doing, they shared some wonderful news as well. That they were expecting their second child in May. I was so excited for them. I had the biggest smile on my face and I think I jumped up and down a few times causing Miss Eden to get a bit confused!

Miss Eden is one of the most adorable little girls. She has an amazing smile, laugh, and is so very sweet! I am excited to meet the next one of the bunch, as I'm sure he/she will be just as perfect!

Congratulations on both Eden being so beautiful and the soon to be newest member of the clan! We are so happy for you all!!!

Check out a few of my favorites from our session...

Ha... she was so interested in the camera... I love that! Future Photog? Perhaps...

Adorable!

She can be so serious...

But I love her little face...

And her excitement!

Haha!

Love this family... xoxox!

Jackson K. :: 3 months old

2011-11-30T16:32:00.002-05:00

Who do you look like more... mom or dad?

That is a pretty good question, huh?!

Some people will say, "Your mom" or, "Your dad" or even the occasion, "Your aunts/uncles". I love that one, especially when it comes to my little nieces, well mostly Izzy B because she looks a heck of a lot like myself.

But I have to tell you... I took photos of one of the cutest little babies and I tell you what, he sure looked like his older brother that I took photos of last year at the same age, and it's REALLY hard to distinguish them one for the other.

Jackson, who is the little brother to Mikey, looks so much like one another. It's actually pretty crazy to compare the two. Those big blue eyes... BLONDE, BLONDE hair... cute little serious faces. Both have such similar temperaments! I think both mom & dad are pretty proud to have made such cute, cute kids!

Congratulations again you guys... another adorable baby to add to this world!

Check out a few of my favorites from our session...

Adorable...

Love me some funny baby faces... if they only knew what they were doing...

So cute...

Yes, he has found his hands... and in the mouth they go...

How did he even fall asleep? Love it!!! P.S. Have you ever noticed those little fists they make? I'm not sure why, but I think that's the cutest thing ever.

Anybody else just want to snuggle him???

Soooooo cute... love his face!

So much to celebrate today...

2011-11-25T13:59:00.010-05:00

Today is a great day...

I remember today like it was yesterday... for two REALLY important reasons...

Both reasons I was anxious, nervous, excited, and filled with so much joy and happiness! I had anticipated the day for so long, although some of the details were fuzzy and unclear, but it was incredible in my mind and it was incredible that day.

5 years ago today, I walked down that long aisle towards the love of my life, we read our vows, we exchanged our symbols of commitment, we lit our candle as a sign of becoming one, and our love was sealed with a kiss. From that day on, I have loved no other like I love Todd. He is the most loving, most caring, most genuine, most kind hearted, wonderful person alive. I am beyond blessed to have met him, become friends with him, opened up my heart to him, and said "I do" to him. He gives my life meaning and joy... I could not ever imagine my life without him. XOXO!

Today is also a great day because three months ago, Todd and I welcomed the love of our lives, Jackson Milo, into this world. We became parents... something 5 years ago, I dreamed of happening, ONE day. But here we are celebrating not only our love for each other, but our love for Jackson's life. We can now celebrate the fact that we made it through those first three, long, hard, joyful, most rewarding months! Both Todd and I have learned so much about each other, about giving up our time, sleep, health, and our selves to care for this child given to us. He gives our life even MORE meaning and joy... and our hearts have grown even BIGGER. Life without him is UNIMAGINABLE!

Happy 3 months Jackson! XOXO!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

2011-11-24T20:38:00.004-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving to you all!

There is so much to be thankful for, more then we even deserve. Food, Clothes, Shelter, Health... the list goes on...

I know Todd and I are reminded of that even more this year with a little chunky monkey to celebrate with, but we are SOO very grateful for all of the many blessings we have been given this year. It has been so fun to venture into a new phase of life, even if I still cannot fit into my old pre pregnancy clothes YET, or remember what it was like to stay up past 9PM, or the fact that it's not as easy to just leave the house with just my keys and wallet. Ha!

I am thankful to you all and your patience with me as our little blessings causes me not to update this more often than I should, but I think I'm sensing a new year's resolution already?! Ha!

But whatever you all do, did, or will be doing today, I hope you stop and take in all the wonderful things in your life!

Max :: 1 Year

2011-11-21T11:51:00.003-05:00

I know I'm the worst blogger in the world... No excuses... I'm just awful!

This month has surprisingly been EXTREMELY busy and in between all the fun sessions I've had, I've been taking care of our growing baby boy. He's getting so big and cute... I can't believe he'll be 3 months old on Friday. Wowzaaazzz!

But as the year winds down, I'm catching up on filling you in on all the special and fun sessions we've had... One of those special sessions has actually been all year long.

I had the opportunity to not only photograph this couple's wedding a few years back, but also their first child's whole first year (3 months, 6 months, & 9 months)! What a privilege! I've been able to watch Max grow from a super cute little guy into a super cute little boy. PLUS, his mom and dad had great news to share as they will be expecting their second child in the spring. How fun! I sure hope to be a part of the newest ones life as well.

Congratulations Joe & Megan on your beautiful growing family!!! It's been so special to be a part of these important moments in your life.

Check out a few of my favorites from our session... and check the links above to see how much he's grown...

Adorable...

He's starting to stand, but not quite walking...

Too cute...

Family LOVE....

Handsome boy...

Max is seriously the happiest baby...

Love it...

Aaron & Leslie :: Engagements

2011-11-07T15:07:00.004-05:00

Michigan State or University of Michigan...

You are either a fan of one or the other, right?!

Well here at the Veldman house, we are U of M fans... well, I guess you could say Todd is a HUGE U of M fan, I'm just the one in the background screaming at the TV for whatever team that has the best jerseys and colors. Ha! Needless to say, I'm not partial to one more then the other, even if I am loyal to my husband and always root for U of M. GO BLUE!

But when I did tell him that I had a couple request to do their engagement session at MSU, he threatened to kick me out of the house if I went.... Ha! I'm totally kidding there... could you imagine that headline?

"Man kicks wife out for going to his rival school"

I'm pretty sure that would never happen here in our house. And now since we have a kid and he decides he wants to go to MSU, he will be allowed to go... as long as he still calls home to check in from time to time and allows his mom and dad to visit him and meet his friends. There will be a lot more to it then just that, but I'm pretty sure we have some time before he decides what college he is going to attend.

As I get off track here...

The moral of this post is that no matter who you may be a fan of, or what school you go to, have gone to, or plan to go to, as long as you are friendly and kind, it really doesn't matter.

I'm pretty sure both Aaron and Leslie are two of the sweetest, most fun loving couple around, even if they are the couple that almost caused me to get kicked out of the house... totally kidding! I was glad to have met them over at MSU. The weather was gorgeous, they were both gorgeous, and they even brought their gorgeous black lab to add to the mix. LOVED that! I had so much fun capturing their sweetness towards each other, how they make each other laugh, and most importantly how they love each other. They are so cute and I cannot wait to travel back over there for their wedding in June!

Check out of a few of my favorites from our session...

I'm pretty sure when they said "Let's go to the 'Sparty' statue," I was expecting to see the cartoon mascot... boy was I wrong...

I love how they have so much fun together... A-DORABLE!

LOVE THIS...

Leslie is absolutely gorgeous... and I'm pretty sure Aaron LOVES her so much!!!

They are so beautiful... and the weather was so beautiful as well...

I LOVE these "real" moments that happen...

But these are great too... they could totally be in a magazine!

Mmmm... he did a great job picking that one out...

Perfect!!!

So sweet... this is one of my favorites...

Ummm... who doesn't love a black lab to add to the mix... LOVE IT!!!

Sooooo cute!!!

I'm pretty sure the colors were absolutely perfect... got to love October...

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T16:57:00.003-04:00

Happy Halloween Everyone...

Despite the fact that I don't quite understand this holiday, it's still fun to celebrate. I know last year we had this super fun party with lots of "Halloween" themed desserts, a scary movie playing on the projector, scary music playing with a strobe light that seriously made you want to throw up... Ha! It was SO fun! This year, on the other hand, is a bit more relaxed... no strobe light, no fun "halloween" themed desserts, no scary movie or music... man, we sound really lame right now! Ha!

But we are so excited for all the trick-o-treaters to arrive later today and we even have a little monster that will be giving candy out... don't be fooled he's not a scary monster, just a super cute one!

Enjoy your Halloween!!!

Isabelle :: 6 months

2011-10-19T16:14:00.004-04:00

I know I sound like a broken record when I say this, but seriously, where does the time go?

It's been such a busy last couple weeks, I have not yet had the chance to update you all on what has been going on. I have had tons of photoshoots that I will be posting since I have a little bit more time now... now that I have our little-big guy on a "schedule"... well, sort of "schedule". I'm trying, and being a first time mom, these last 8 weeks have been the most challenging, yet most wonderful moments of my life. I knew it was going to be hard, but man-oh-man is it tough. It didn't help that Jackson got pretty sick and the only way he would sleep was propped up in his bouncer for a week. Poor guy! Along with myself only getting maybe 3-4 hours a sleep that whole entire week. I don't quite remember all of the photo shoots I had due to the haze of sleep depravation I was under, but things are getting SO much better... and it could not be in better timing because...

Our little-big man started SMILING a few weeks back! He has got the cutest smile and I get so excited to see it. When I go pick him up from his naps, when he's done eating, when I change him, when I ask in my baby-type voice "Where's your smile?", or when I sing 'Twinkle, Twinkle' to him, he gives me the biggest open mouth smile... similar to this... (Note: I took this at 6 weeks, so it's much better now... but he's napping right now so I don't want to wake him just for this post! Ha!)

Pretty darn cute, huh?! I think so too.

But someone else that is pretty darn cute is Miss Isabelle...

I met Miss Izzy back in March when her mama was WAY past due... I'm talking 3 weeks past due. Ek! I have a "new" perspective on that situation, and I could not even imagine those three long weeks for her. But I'm sure she is thinking how time is flying by since Miss Izzy turned 6 months old, and she is the sweetest, most precious 6 month old. I love her big brown eyes and her super sweet smile. She is A-DORABLE!

Check out a few of my favorites from our session...

Love her little facial expressions...

Love her smile...

Mama brought her REAL pearls...

And in the mouth they went... and why wouldn't they?! Ha!

I LOVE this one... look at those eyes!

Umm... is this tutu the most adorable tutu ever?

Haha!

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE all the colorful paper balls...

Happy Wednesday!!!

4 Week Whirlwind...

2011-09-22T19:53:00.002-04:00

Where does the time go?

I'm a bit clueless on that one...

The last four weeks have been a whirlwind!

I guess I always thought to myself... Oh, I'll be just like my mom when delivering a baby. She had both my sister and I within just a few hours of her water breaking, a smooth recovery, and back to normal within a few weeks.

Ummm... little did I know that would NOT be the case for me. After the NOT-SO-SMOOTH delivery (do not read if you are planning on wanting kids - Haha! Just kidding!), it has been a NOT-SO-SMOOTH recovery as well. Since I had both a natural childbirth and a c-section childbirth, along with trip to the ER from my incision gushing blood, to a few doctors appointments because my incision has a 2" gaping hole, which Todd calls my "flapper", and now I have to have him clean inside my incision twice a day so that it starts to heal since it is not closed in one area (not normal and not fun!), the time has just flew by and I feel like I do not have much to show for the last couple weeks. That's not mentioning the sleep depravation, that seriously NO ONE can prepare you for, and you really do not know what you are doing and saying at times. Ha!

I SO wish I had the smooth delivery and the smooth recovery because I would have been up and moving a lot sooner than this four week mark, but I guess you have to accept what you are given... and I'm soooooo blessed to have been given one of the BEST and CUTEST babies on the planet!

Jackson has been A-MAZING and has made this rough experience SO worth all of the pain, tears, and agony I have been going through. He is so sweet and so mellow... he cries when he needs something and that is about it! He's so content with life and you can tell he's going to be such a sweetheart. I love this kid SO much... and I cannot even explain how much he has changed Todd and I's life.

I did get a chance to pick up my camera to get some shots of him, not as many as I would have liked to, but we made the best of the situation... and we even have a poop explosion from all the excitement to prove it. I'm not talking "little" explosion, it pretty much was like a shotgun and took out my shirt, pants, our bedspread, and all over the floor. We had some fun times cleaning that mess up! Haha!

But here's our little cutie the past couple weeks...

1 WEEK OLD

I mean how could you not be changed when you get to see this face every day? Oh... I LOVE HIM SO MUCH!!!!

He was COLD... hehe... sorry buddy!

This is his signature pose...

First signs of a smile... my heart melts!

So small...

Adorable...

2 WEEKS OLD

Still being cute!

The next few are a few of my absolute FAVORITES!!

Oh how I LOVE him!!!

Haha...

3 WEEKS

He's getting so BIG!!!

Don't be fooled... he's really not tired!

Ok... maybe only for a few minutes at a time does he sleep... Haha!

Sooo adorable... (This is when I decided to take his diaper off and get some shots of him naked... that's when the explosion took place and he was not going to cooperate, so diaper stayed on! Haha!)

Not quite sure what this is all about, but it's pretty cute!

XOXOXO!!!

4 WEEKS

I LOVE YOU... I LOVE YOU... I LOVE YOU...

Mmm... so cute!

So precious when he sleeps... I just wish he did more of this at night... HaHa!

Oh yes... this happened...

I think Maddox misses being center of attention... what do you think?!

I'm hoping we get more on a routine so I can post more, but excuse me while I try to catch up on sleep in between posts.

Happy 4 weeks Jackson! We love you!!!!

Life's Surprises...

2011-08-30T11:37:00.017-04:00

You can plan and plan, but that doesn't always mean those plans are going to be the final outcome.

Life sure gives you lots of surprises that you never expect in a million years to happen, right?!

I mean how many times do you plan an outing only for the weather to down pour on you and cause you to cancel or resort to "inside only activities"? Booo on bad weather! Or when you plant a whole garden full of tomatoes only to find out that the soil has a lack of calcium in it, and you are stuck with rotten bottom tomatoes that you can't even eat... that's torture... and yes that happened to us this year! Boo on bad soil!

But all those life's surprises might happen for a reason, and you can choose to either be mad and hate life, which what kind of a life would that be? NOT FUN! or you can accept that you are not in control and find whatever positives you can in those surprises.

Well life sure gave Todd and I quite the surprise last week, and it was one that neither I nor anyone else would have ever even imagined!

Without losing too many readers, I'll try and give the best version of the story without going too far in detail to make people leave the page to go throw up. So stick with me here... the ending is the BEST part...

So last Friday August 19th came, which for those of you who follow us, know that was our due date. Sure enough, our boy was not done cooking as he was still gaining lots of brain cells to make himself SUPER smart! A couple more days past, which brings us to Tuesday. Todd and I had been waiting patiently for some signs to come that would give us a clear idea as to when our little guy was indeed ready. We went to see our midwife on Tuesday, and things looked great, but no signs had arose, so we scheduled an ultrasound for Friday to make sure things were still ok with him and we had nothing to worry about. At this point, I'm pretty sure I'd be pregnant forever.

Tuesday evening, we were headed out the door to go visit some friends, and sure enough one of those lovely "Baby is on the Way" signs decided to grace us with its presence... nothing too urgent to go and get the car packed, but just there were signs that there could potentially be a baby within 24-48 hours. As the night went on, I was feeling a little bit more uneasy and as we went to bed that night, my mind would keep me awake along with some pain I was having. Little did I know that any sleep that I would get that night would be my last for a REALLY long time!

The next morning, the pain I was having was still there as it was much stronger. I knew that they were contractions because they were coming at regular intervals around seven minutes apart. I had been having those fun "fake" ones for weeks now, and considering the intensity they were coming, I knew the end was so close... or so I thought...

I talked Todd into going into work that day, and just told him I would keep him posted. I decided to keep myself relaxed and near home so that if anything were to happen and progress quickly, I was not too far and I knew I would need my energy as I had been planning an 'all natural' labor for months now and I knew it was not going to be easy.

The pain I was having throughout the morning was bearable, nothing breathing couldn't help with. I'm pretty sure all my yoga really helped me through them and as the day went on, the pain got stronger. I called Todd around 12:30pm and told him I needed him to come home. I was getting a bit overwhelmed because I knew that this was IT and soon enough it would get a lot worse. I needed a distraction and Todd was what I needed.

When Todd got home, he helped distract me. He would help me breath, relax, laugh, smile, and follow me around the house with our exercise ball because if I had a contraction in a room the only thing that would help would to sit on the ball and rock back and forth. I am so grateful for him...

Somewhere around 8PM, I knew things were progressing a lot quicker and my contractions were becoming stronger and stronger. I started having a great deal of pain in my lower back. A pain I was dreading, as I knew it was "BACK LABOR". I was a bit overwhelmed as everything that happened up until this moment seemed so slow, and now it was like the gear shifted and we were going a mile a minute. We called our friends to come get Maddox, packed the car, and waited the hour of those fun 5 minute intervals of someone beating me with a baseball bat for at least an hour long. I didn't want to go to the hospital too early, but did not want to wait too long.

Around 9:30, I called our midwife and told her it had been over an hour and she actually told me that I sounded fine. Sounded fine? Seriously, I almost jumped through the phone to beat this lady. She thought since I sounded "fine", I should wait until they were more around THREE minutes apart and that I wouldn't be able to talk much... Yes, she was crazy I tell ya!!! I was in so much pain, I wanted to curl in a ball and die. Luckily no more than 45 minutes later, it was TIME!!!! It went from one contraction, rest for 5 minutes, to one contraction, the next contraction, to the next, etc... they were right on top of each other and ones that I could not even talk through. I only could breathe. I told Todd we needed to go... and he questioned me... I said, "No, it's TIME!!!" We got in the car, I stuck the tennis ball behind my back for pain, put on my headphones, and we made the 30 minute trip over to the hospital.

The trip there was a blur, along with the whole trip up to the birthing center, but once we got in there, changed, and saw our midwife, I was at ease and the contractions had slowed down, which helped. I told her about the back pain, so she first checked to see my progress and did a quick ultrasound of our baby. As she checked me, my water broke... what a weird feeling that was... Haha! She had us guess to see how far along I was... we had no idea so we just said maybe 4 cm. She laughed and said, "You're a 7!" I was in shock. I thought oh my goodness... I'm almost there, considering you just go to 10. I had only 3 cm. to go! Wooo... the bad thing was she did a quick ultrasound of our baby and turned out he was indeed what they call "sunny-side up" which is not ideal for labor, but it was doable.

After we got checked in and into our room, we would do everything we could to get our baby to turn in the right direction. It was slow and long and exhausting. I kept wanting to know what time it was and if I was close, but Todd kept telling me to breathe and the time would come. I did a lot of rocking on the ball, sitting in the jacuzzi tub, laying on my side, and basically, anything and everything to breathe through the pain. It was NOT fun... the pain started getting to be unbearable... I'm talking to the point where I no longer could breathe and it was more screaming than breathing... Yes, labor does some pretty crazy things to you. My back pain got so bad, I literally thought I was going to die.

8 hours later, our midwife decided to check my progress... as she wanted to see where I was indeed at and if it was time to get the ball moving. I wasn't having any pressure to push, but I never was in labor before so how was I suppose to know what that feels like? I thought for sure I was almost there. I mean it had been so long and I was EXHAUSTED! Around 7am she checked me and I could not even bear the pain any longer. I wanted a way out... I wanted our baby out! I knew this was not going to be easy, but seriously, it was the most awful pain I have ever endured. She checked me to see and I was barely 8 cm. I think at that point, I was done... I could no longer go any further! Due to my progress after the 8 hours being at the hospital, she recommended an epidural and pitocin to speed things up since I was so wiped out, I had no energy to even breathe through any more. I was really bummed because of my "plan" to do it without medicine, but I knew I went as long as I could and that epidural could not come fast enough. I was begging the nurses to tell them it was an emergency. Once I got all doped up, I could actually breathe again, and was able to just relax. I took a quick nap and waited a few more hours, until they told me it was time to push.

6 hours had passed, and it was a long 6 hours! I could still feel contractions, they just weren't as intense and I didn't feel like someone was beating me with a bat in my back. I was able to breathe a little bit more through them. After 6 hours of waiting, it was finally time to start pushing.

Our nurses were awesome... all of them! We got started and she explained everything to me and we did practice breathing so I knew exactly what to do. I asked her about how long would it take to get him out, of course there is no exact time frame, but she said average about an hour or two. So the contractions came and pushing came with it... harder and harder... who would have thought pushing without breathing would be so hard. It is SUCH TOUGH WORK!!! It was not fun...

I pushed and pushed and pushed and it seemed like nothing was happening. They kept having me turn different directions and after awhile I could hear whispers to Todd. I opened my eyes at one point and there was a mass amount of people in the room with us. Doctors and nurses galore. At one point, there was six different people holding different parts of my body while I pushed. I started to get a little panicked. I was losing energy and my back pain was coming back, which if you remember the worse pain I had ever endured in my life. I kept asking if I was close... all anyone would say was "You are CLOSER!" I was confused. I was waiting for that moment where they say, "I see a head!" But nothing...

After THREE LONG, DREADFUL hours of pushing, I could no longer go any further. My back pain was back, I had no energy left, I was crying, hyperventilating, begging everyone to just get him out. I wanted a way out! I had no clue how to get out of this situation... and get out quickly. I was hopeless and Todd did the best he could at helping, but at this point I needed relief and I needed it NOW. I just wanted to meet our little boy... it was TIME!

After the three hours and all the whispering, and me getting a bit out of control... Yes, I admit I was out of control at the time because of all the pain, a doctor that had been checking in from time to time came in and assessed the situation. It was pretty crazy! The doctor had determined that he had not moved from when I initially started pushing. Goodness gracious this kid is stubborn, so the doctor ordered an emergency c-section because our little guys head was stuck behind my pelvic bone. How big was this boy's head that it would do that? (Just wait and you'll see!)

On the way to the C-section, I kept sobbing... I did not want any more contractions to come because they hurt so bad I thought I was going to hyperventilate and lose oxygen to our little guy causing him to die along with myself.

They got me prepped and ready to go, brought Todd back in, and did the surgery. Just when we thought things couldn't get any worse... they could! Ughhh!!! Sure enough, Jackson was stuck so tightly in my pelvis, they could not get him out and had to go from the opposite side to push and the other person had to pull him out of my tummy. Ouch! Then, due to all the stress he had been under, he had meconiume in his water and had swallowed it. Oh brother... after all of that... more bad news! They got him out, cleaned out his lungs and all I knew was that I was getting pretty out of it. I couldn't stop shivering and I felt like I was going in and out of consciousness. I was so limp... I could hear Todd talking to me, but could not respond. I had no energy, I was upset my baby was being worked on, we didn't get to see him and then they took him up to be monitored due to the stress he was under.

But he made it here...

Jackson Milo Veldman arrived at 4:27PM weighing 9lbs. 21.3 inches long

The next couple hours were a blur as well. I was taken to triage and Jackson was taken to the special nursery for observation. Since I was in triage, trying to heal as well going in and out of consciousness, which at the time was probably a good thing because I was pretty upset about this WHOLE situation. We did have a few family members there for the delivery, but the only update they got that was after all those hours, we had to go get a c-section... so it was pretty crazy! Todd was given permission to go see Jackson, and he was able to take one person at a time to go see him and after I was taken to a room and they made sure he was ok. We FINALLY got to meet him!!!

I can't tell you how crazy this whole situation was and how this was the LAST thing I ever expected to happen. But he is so worth all the pain, and I would do it all over again if I had to. But please don't ask him to do that... it was awful!

Thank you to a few family members who passed along some photos to us, as we were not able to take some that we really wanted to....

This was the first time I got to see him... I was soooo in LOVE!!!!

Our new family... (pardon my lovely exhausted look.. it had been a long couple days!)

I wasnt able to do much in the hospital, but I did get a chance to take a few photos of our boy... I'm partial, but I think he's sooooo stinkin' cute!!!

Pardon my absence as we adjust to our new life... but keep checking back as life will calm down and Jackson will make sure to make his first newborn session soon!

Happy Wednesday and Sorry if anyone threw up reading this... Haha!!!

Protesting...

2011-08-23T16:14:00.006-04:00

After falling into my huge desperation hole last week, I thought that I would have good news on Friday, but sure enough I was just left with a hole in my stomach from all the heartburn I have. Needless to say... the cookies did NOT work. But it sure was fun to see everyone else try them since I had made so many.

I thought to myself, well maybe if I don't post an edition of 'Fun Times Friday', he would come sometime over the weekend and I could have a fun post of a 'Fun Times Weekend' to share... kind of like a protest to him.

I was wrong...

So we will continue waiting and waiting and waiting... but hopefully not waiting as long as my vivid dream last night, where he never came out! Umm... that was extremely weird and I'm so glad I woke up knowing that was just a dream and more importantly, just not possible! Can you imagine having a Benjamin Button baby...

YIKES... a bit creepy if you ask me! SOOOO SOOOO glad I woke up!

I plan to have a baby that will fit in nothing bigger than a little onesie, even if he is on the bigger side, which we found out there is a good chance that he will be. I'm ok with skipping the newborn size if it means he comes happy and healthy!

We're so excited to share the news with you all... when that day does official arrive, but until then, we continue waiting patiently and staying away from those heartburn cookies!

I Fell in the Desperation Hole...

2011-08-18T13:38:00.004-04:00

I feel like I'm in a haunted house right now...

I remember when I was young and my dad took my sister and I into this HUGE haunted house down in Tennessee. My sister and I were so confident that we could make it through this two story building, we thought that there is no way this place could be THAT bad. We paid a pretty penny to enter, made it through the first room and sure enough, here is my dad trying to find us an emergency exit in the second room we entered because we were so freaked out, there was NO WAY we were going to make it up through all those rooms.

But this haunted house is much MORE scarier than the one down in Tennessee... it's the unknown of "when" this baby is going to be ready to be born. Yes, to me that is scary! With our due date approaching TOMORROW, I feel like I'm in that haunted house, just waiting for someone to jump out from behind a wall and scare the daylights out of me. Don't get me wrong, I want to be scared, it is a haunted house, right? But I also want to know what wall they are hiding behind, ask them to count to three, so I can brace myself and not be so caught off guard. I want to know when indeed my water will break, or when the intense contractions will begin, or however it will need to happen... I want to know in advance... this anticipation of the unknown just might kill me in the process.

I know that I have heard every Old Wives Tale under the sun on EXACTLY what to do to induce labor, and I have learned early on to just take it with the grain of salt because if he's not ready, I cannot drink enough Castor Oil in the world that will get him to come... and NO, I will not be doing that... GROSS! But I can totally see how people get desperate and will try just about anything, which I am totally guilty of and brings me to today when I fell into a HUGE desperation hole.

As I was talking to my sister, and she was goo'ing and gaa'ing at her newly born bundle of joy, I fell into the desperation pit because we are SOOO ready to meet our boy! I'm talking over the moon excited and the comfort level of all this extra weight can be pretty taxing on the body. I just want to be goo'ing and gaa'ing as well. We have been walking so much my legs are on FIRE, and I do quite a bit of walking as it is, so more added to the mix is making me forest fire. (Like that one huh?! Ha!) I know walking can only do so much, but I want to be ready when that time comes. Well as my sister was goo'ing and gaa'ing, she mentioned how my mom was talking about cookies to jump start your labor. I thought to myself... whatever, those would never work. But sure enough, there I was googling them, and as I got off the phone with her five minutes later, all the ingredients were on the counter, oven was preheated, and the measuring cups were out ready to master this recipe. I fell into the desperation hole so far, I now have three dozen 'Jump Start Your Labor Cookies' to eat and if they don't work, I will probably have lost all taste buds and won't be able to goo or gaa because my tongue will be so numb I won't be able to use it. Haha!

Happy Thursday... Let's hope tomorrow we will have some Fun (Baby) Times to share!

And now there are TWO...

2011-08-16T16:08:00.006-04:00

For most people, Monday's can be pretty blah, right?

Well I have never been one of 'those' people who think that. I love every day and I love Monday's even more because yesterday was a BIG, BIG day in our family.

Most of you all know that I have one and only one sister. She's 18 months older than I am and we are EXTREMELY close... well not distance close, since she's in Indiana and I'm in Michigan, but relationshiply (Yes, a new word for your vocabulary?!) close. We talk all the time and it's actually pretty funny at the random stuff we call each other for or about... I'll spare you the details because some are too weird! Ha!

A few years back, she was blessed with her first baby, my first and only niece, Isabella Sophia. What a miracle she was, and such a sweet and spunky little girl she has become. LOVE HER so much!!!! I was so excited to be able to have a few weeks to spend with them all after she arrived, as my schedule allowed me to stay and help out with everything and anything needed down there then. It allowed me to share this special time with them, but to be able to bond with this baby girl who would be in our lives forever.

Well fast forward three years... somewhere around the first of the year.

My sister had found out a few weeks before New Year's that they were expecting another baby, which we were extremely excited for! Soon after they found out they were expecting, Todd and I found out we were also expecting. Wow! What are the odds?! I always told her that it would be so fun to be pregnant together at the same time, little did we know that our due dates would be TWO days apart from each other, which at the time was pretty cool! We were thrilled... SOOO SOOOO excited (after the initial shock of being pregnant wore off! Ha!)!

But as time went on, we realized that what an unfortunate thing to be experiencing together. Don't get me wrong... it has been so fun to experience this journey together, especially the last couple weeks here calling to chat daily to share what new fun things have arose. But now as the journey comes to an end for us both, we now have to miss out on the FUN part... the BABY BEING BORN! Not something we wanted to miss out on for each other... not at all!!!! What a bummer of a time to miss out on.

But I am thankful for technology today and with the recent heat killing my phone, causing me to get an iPhone, I have to thank facetime, skype, camera phones, and texting for allowing me to meet the newest member of our family even if it is through all the newest technology...

MISS EMELIA SHAY

Born on Monday August 15, 2011 at 12:20PM
Weighing in at 6lbs. 9oz 19inches long

Isn't she a beauty?

And is this not the most precious photo ever?! I LOVE it!!! (I'm so bummed I'm missed this moment!)

I can't wait to get her in front of my camera for some photo action and I cannot wait for Jackson to get here so we can plan our first trip to Indiana for the cousins to meet!

Fun Times Friday :: Nursery

2011-08-12T15:23:00.005-04:00

It's FRIDAY!!!

Wooo... I'm so excited!

I look forward to Friday's so much now, not that I didn't before because Friday's are always nice, and Saturday's are awesome because we usually have weddings, but NEXT Friday is our due date, so we are ready whenever he is.

I know that I am about to birth a watermelon, but some people do not know how to respond to the big belly that I'm wearing right now. I have noticed that the bigger I get, the less people ask when I'm due because they must know I'm due any day. The questions of 'when' I'm due have turned into obvious stares at my belly and not-so-nice comments on how big I am... talk about feeling like a freak show. Today was pretty bad... I decided to go to Home Depot looking for something and of course I couldn't find it, so I had to ask a worker. She didn't know where to find it so she called another worker and they told her to tell me to meet me in aisle 10, she then went ahead to describe me as, "The REALLY Pregnant Girl that is about to Pop!" I could not believe her... she should be ashamed, even if it is true! Keep those comments to yourself... especially, to someone who not only looks huge, feels huge, and is pumped full of hormones that are not fun right now. Ha!

But on a good note...

I'm happy to say that our nursery if FINALLY complete! Sooooo fun... we put a lot of hard work into making it special for him and even though he won't be able to appreciate it or even enjoy it for awhile, I'm at peace knowing it's done and I don't have anything left to do, well besides the obvious... get him out! Ha!!!

We started off not really wanting a "theme", but that quickly changed when we both realized that we love animals and the bedding we picked out happened to have animals on it. Ha!

Walking into his room, you would see this...

Who wouldn't love changing him on a dresser like this?

I got a few prints on etsy that I fell in love with... ADORABLE!

And rocking him in a nice comfy chair will be so fun... let's hope he doesn't cry too much...

I got a little carried away on the amount of felt animals I did... Yes, I hand stitched them all... carpal tunnel and all. But one more turned into lots more and all the frames were fun to paint in all different colors. I think he'll like them when he's older and can name them... or it will be fun to teach him all the names at least!

He'll be sleeping there in the near future... Yay!

His name is no surprise with us... Jackson Milo... Jackson is actually Todd's grandparents last name and since there is only one "Jackson" left, we will carry on the name... Plus it's a cute name! Milo after... well there's no significance, we just really liked it...

And more animals to look at... I actually saw this on etsy and thought I could make it instead... next time I will just buy it as it took forever to make, along with everything else in his room. Haha!

Enjoy and Happy Friday! Cross your fingers that he's here before next Friday...

Down to the Wire...

2011-08-09T17:34:00.007-04:00

Who would have thought that preparing for a baby would be a job in itself?

I feel like each day that passes is one day closer to meeting him, and after today's doctors appointment, Todd and I are both extremely excited for that day to be here. We are down to a week and a half until our actual due date, so he could come any time now. But today was special because we got to see a brief glimpse of him on the ultrasound machine as our midwife was confirming his position, since last week he was still "sunny side up". Good thing he's not now and all those hands & knees work along with the good ol' chiropractor I've been seeing has been paying off.

But as the time rolls towards meeting this boy, I've been trying to catch up on finishing his nursery, which I will be posting photos this week since I'm for the MOST part finished... what a time consuming project that was, plus trying to catch up on that thing most people call sleep, which is pretty much non-existent and a rare thing I've been experiencing lately. But I hear that's normal and probably a good thing since there will be lots of sleepless nights ahead. But I'm also trying to visualize how our buddy Maddox is going to do and adjust to life with a baby. I think he's going to do awesome because what lab doesn't do awesome with babies, but friends of ours recently got a cute, little, tiny puppy that is probably WAY smaller than the size of our little guy right now (Ha!) and I'm realizing that he is going to be such an awesome big brother!

He's got the instincts of a protector... and I'm so excited for not only our little guy to arrive, but to introduce the two of them! What a sweet moment that will be!

Ummm... can we say ADORABLE!!!

Fun Times (Late) Friday!!!

2011-08-06T16:49:00.000-04:00

I realize yesterday was Friday, but due to the party foul on DTE's part, FUN TIMES were not lived until later in the day.

Yeah you guessed it, we had NO power! Talk about a lack of fun considering how HOT it was... I didn't want to open the doors and windows and make it even warmer inside, along with not wanting to open the refrigerator or freezer... so needless to say I snacked on granola bars and crackers all day for fuel. Ha!

So instead of sitting inside all day, I decided it was a good day to weed the front walkway. Well I'm not so sure that was a good idea because as I was weeding, minding my own business, our neighbor decided to come over to make some small talk. I love our neighbors and usually have NO problem with them whatsoever, but let me just give you a visual. Our walkway consists of a number of small tiny bricks to form a really nice pathway up to our door. I was working extremely hard on my hands and knees, big belly and all, sweating profusely, developing those lovely weeding blisters from trying to get my fingers in the small cracks where the weeds love to live, while holes developed in the tips of my gloves getting dirt under my nails, along with my hands cramping every few minutes... did I mention how warm it was and I was SWEATING PROFUSELY? That was probably not the best time to come over to give me a Weeding 101 class.

Yes, you read that right... I was given lessons on weeding, including showing me what a bottle of weed killer looks like, the name of a seed to spread to kill the weeds in the yard, along with how to use a spreader, oh and a bonus offer of using his spreader while I walk the dog back and forth our yard. I'm not quite sure what he was talking about, but all I know is that if I knew I was going to get a class on weeds, I would have brought my pen and pencil. Haha! Needless to say, yesterday was not my friend, nor was he at that moment. I'm thinking he could have picked a different time if he really wanted to show me the ropes.

I don't think our yard looks that bad, and if anything the weather is partially to blame since it has been so hot, most of the yard is hard to keep alive even after watering almost every morning. It does not look that bad... it's nicely mowed and well maintained, and I was weeding in the process of getting rid of all of those nasty burgers that was creeping out of those small bricks.

He was lucky I was too tired and had no extra energy to put into telling him what I thought about his teaching skills. He would have failed in my book. Good thing I had my phone with me and accepted a phone call to close off that conversation with him... and an even better thing... the power came back on later in the evening for Todd and I to be able to share one of the last Friday's together just the two of us watching a movie! He makes all Friday's FUN TIMES!!!

And because posts are so much better with something photo related... I got this video from a friend and thought how creative and so incredible to watch... Check it out!!!

Happy (Late) Friday!

Miss Ella Love :: 1 year

2011-08-03T15:59:00.004-04:00

Do you ever feel like you meet someone and they are a part of your life forever?

Well... that is exactly how I feel like when it comes to Miss Ella Love and her family.

One of my dearest friend's who was pregnant and had her baby last summer decided to venture on in their life and we went from seeing them ALL the time to rarely seeing them now. I was extremely happy for them because they were venturing into some great opportunities in their lives, but I have to say there was a lot of bummed feelings as well because who does like going from seeing great friends ALL the time to RARELY seeing them? NOT ME!!! But I know we will always pick up where we last left off...

Especially when it comes to their little bundle of joy... Ella Love! What a year will do to a beauty! Ella just turned ONE and oh how she has changed. She's so smiley and funny... not to mention so stylish, just like her mama! I was so excited to be able to get some fun shots, even despite the 96 degree heat outside. Poor thing was not a fan, but she did great and I love any opportunity to see one of my favorite family!

Happy Birthday Ella!!!

Check out a few of my favorites...

Look at that cute face...

Mmmm... yummy!

Haha...

Oh my gosh, is she adorable or what???

LOVE that smile!!!

Want a taste?

So cute...

My FAVORITE... who doesn't love a little beautiful smile?!

Fun Times Friday

2011-07-29T17:42:00.003-04:00

I think I might turn BLUE...

Yes, BLUE... I'm talking literally, that my skin just might turn to that shade that looks like a Smurf.

This Friday, we have had some FUN TIMES, even though I'm not really feeling FUN because of the lack of sleep I have gotten the last couple nights... A BIG Thank You to those Major Storms, for waiting until the middle of the night to come grace us with your loud booms and bright lights! Not a good mix, especially with a dog who is EXTREMELY scared of them.

But a friend and I went out to pick blueberries and I think I have a new record.... 8 lbs in an ONE hour. Oh yes! I could not believe it when all those plump, juicy, sweet balls of heaven added to such a sweet HUGE weight. I might have even gained a few pounds as we were out picking, but what's a few more to add to the mix. I mean it's all going to the same place right now, right? Ha!

Speaking of that "place", we are officially FULL TERM... so if this baby decides to come soon... I would be TOTALLY ok with it!

Happy FRIDAY!!!

Mmmm... don't they look so YUMMY????

Max :: 9 months

2011-07-27T14:55:00.004-04:00

Look at what 6 months will do...

I've been seeing Max for the last 6 months and as he's grown and changed so much... and I as well... I say that because Max was one of the first baby sessions we did after finding out we were pregnant... talk about an eye opener!

Then I met up with him 3 months later for a 6 month session... what a change in those 3 months. I could NOT believe how much and quick babies change! It kind of makes me sad and our little guy is not even here! Oh how time flies...

But I recently met up with Max and his parents for his 9 month session and even more changes have taken place... He's getting so BIG and he is SOOOO stinking' ADORABLE! He is one of the most smiley babies I have ever known, and those blue eyes of his are a real charmer. Even despite the heat, he was a real trooper and his personality is really starting to shine, which is so sweet!

Happy 9 months Max... see you in a few more for your big ONE year!!!

Check out a few of my favorites...

Look at that SMILE!!!

He looks like he's up to something sneaky...

Haha...

His parents said he does this a lot... Ha!

LOVE this...

Hey Look... NO HANDS!!!

Adorable...

Love it when kids observe all their surroundings... especially the grass... what a new texture it is for them...

Fun Times Friday... Steve & Sara :: Engagements

2011-07-22T16:56:00.002-04:00

Happy FRIDAY Everyone!

I'm pretty sure either I broke my back yesterday with all that laundry I did or else someone took a baseball bat to me in my sleep and managed to hit me in the best spot to make most things I do pretty pathetic. I probably look like an 80 year old woman with one hand on my back and one hand supporting myself on all things that can help support myself. Haha!

But it's FRIDAY and it's suppose to be fun, so why not spend the morning at the chiropractor? Got to LOVE that!!!!

Another thing today brings is Steve & Sara!

Two people that are an inspiration to us all, after being together for 11 years! Yes, you read that right... ELEVEN YEARS! That is true commitment there, especially at such a young age. I was in awe of them, and loved how comfortable they are together and in front of the camera. They are so sweet and so stinkin' cute together... it was as though they just started dating with their giddy laughs and their sweet looks to each other. You can tell how much they love each other... I mean they do have 11 years on their tally, so that has got to be a LOT of LOVE!

I'm so excited for their wedding next year... it should be such a fun and great celebration!!!!

Thanks for the fun session you two, even despite the 90+ degree heat... I had so much fun!!!

Check out a few of my favorites...

Adorable together...

He really LOVES her... and loves to make her smile...

LOVE her ring...

What a gorgeous spot...

She LOVES him too...

One of my absolute favorites...

Another FAVORITE...

Sweet moments... sweet spots..

Mmm...

So cute...

Thank you, Heat Wave 2011!

2011-07-21T15:37:00.004-04:00

HEAT WAVE 2011!!!

That is exactly what I am calling this week...

As much as it stinks to be outside, unless you are sitting "in" a pool, which we don't have... well we have a kiddie pool for Maddox, but for one, he's scared of it so we don't have it set up and two, I'm not sure I would fit right now... haha!

But I have been taking advantage of this heat in some REALLY nice ways and I want to thank this wave of heat for what it is allowing me to do...

First off, I took Maddox for a nice long walk earlier this week and it turns out that the heat killed my phone. Seriously! It was so hot out, that my cell phone stopped working. I know that sounds like a REALLY bad thing, which at the time, it was and I was a little panicked for a few hours because I realized I would not be able to get ahold of anyone if I really needed to get ahold of anyone, but it ended up being a REALLY, REALLY good thing because my sweet & awesome husband bought me an iPhone! Yeah, I scored big time on that mishap! Thank you Heat Wave 2011!

Secondly, it has been SO hot outside that it is forcing myself to relax, which is REALLY hard for me to do, and I would say I'm not being very successful on the "relaxing part" because I told myself that I was going to chill out today, and I decided that since it was so hot out that my clothes could dry super fast if I washed them and dried them outside. It was a great idea... a superb idea... one that has allowed me to wash and dry almost all the stuff I have been meaning to wash for our little guy and his room, which Todd mentioned this week that if I were to have our baby soon, nothing would be ready. I think I just proved him wrong... Thank you Heat Wave 2011!

Last and not least, this heat is just a GREAT reminder that it's SUMMER and who doesn't love SUMMER? It's not cold, snowy, or nasty outside... I LOVE IT!!!

I hope you are enjoying this heat in whatever way you can...

(This is taken by new iPhone... HOLLER!!! )

Happy SUMMER!!!!

Baby Piper :: Newborn

2011-07-19T09:42:00.003-04:00

Guess who's THREE years old now???

Happy Birthday to my niece, Izzy B! I love you more and more, especially now that you can say my name and use your mama's photo to call and leave me fun messages asking me to "Wake up!" Haha! XOXOXO! Let's just hope I stay "COOL" in her books because she's getting ready for Preschool, and I don't want her to be influenced by other kids who don't have aunts

But onto another super, cute little girl... well in this case a super, cute BABY girl... Baby Piper!

Isn't that the sweetest and cutest name you've ever heard?

Along with being the sweetest and cutest baby girl... Baby Piper is already forming to her name! I can't tell you how great she was for photos. She was so calm, so sweet, loved being on her tummy, and let's just face it, looked absolutely adorable in all her little outfits! Girls do have way more fun when it comes to clothes!

But taking her photos made me fall in love with our little guy more than ever because when I was contacted by her mom, I mentioned that we were due a few weeks after her and sure enough baby Piper is here, which only means one thing... our little guy is almost here! Yay!!! And after this weekend's birthing class... I just want to get this show on the road and get this little guy here safe and sound. The anticipation just might kill me! Haha!

But I had so much fun with Baby Piper... Congratulations to Mom & Dad... she is PRECIOUS!!!

Check out a few of my favorites...

Isn't she a cutie???

So peaceful sleeping...

Look at those little toes!!!!

She is definitely a sleeping beauty...

And a beauty when she is awake...

Her mom & dad nicknamed her "Buttercup" when they first found out they were pregnant and the name just stuck!

LOVE this one...

Adorable!!!

They LOVE her so much...

Fun Times Friday!!!

2011-07-15T16:10:00.002-04:00

Today is a great day!

Not only are Todd and I going to see Harry Potter tonight... (Haha!)

But it is a GREAT day because today is the day that we celebrate our first born's birthday! We are not exactly sure when he was born, but it's usually around this mid-July time.

For anyone else who has dogs or animals for that matter, can relate to how much they change your life. You just grow a bigger heart and love them like they are real people.

I still remember the day we got him, one of the BEST days of our life, and how we originally went to go look at one of his siblings. We drove out to visit them at a foster home and his sibling did not want anything to do with us, but here is Maddox, named Mr. Fiesty at the time, thank goodness we changed his name, but here he is laying down attached to me already letting me just rub his little tiny black belly... looking at me with a face like this...

I told Todd that I wanted him, and we took him home and fell in love! He has truly been the BEST dog imaginable, even despite his quarks, who doesn't have their issues right... I mean thunder and lighting can be really scary, I agree! He even makes people who hates dogs, really love them! What a GOOD BOY he is!!!

It has been a wonderful three years with this guy... and I hope he stays with us for another 30 years... wouldn't that be so nice?!!! I really think he's starting to catch on that something is getting ready to happen because the last couple weeks he's been following me from room to room with those same puppy dog eyes we first saw him with. I feel terrible, but he will be the best big brother ever!

I love you buddy and you will always be my BEST friend, even if I do not give you as many belly rubs or as many hugs and kisses!

Happy 3rd Birthday and Happy Friday Everyone!!!

Brad & Ashley :: Wedding

2011-07-13T13:43:00.009-04:00

Babymoon?

Someone recently asked Todd and I if we were going to be taking a "Babymoon". I laughed because it sounded so funny, but then my laugh probably turned awkward because I was thinking, "I honestly don't know what they are talking about. Is this a class I should be taking in order to prepare for a baby? Should I have enrolled in this class? Will they let me take my baby home if I have not taking it?"

I started to panic a little and then asked what exactly they meant. They explained how it was a trip before the baby came and I took a breath of relief because I had never heard of "babymoon" before and I was so clueless on those "baby" terms. I guess I didn't read that far in that "What to Expect" book we purchased when we first found out we were pregnant. Ha!

At the time, we did not have any trips planned, but we did have a few weddings that were out of town. Did that count? I mean I love my husband more than anything in this world, but I also love weddings, and why not combine the two to make this pregnant girl happy, right? I would think that would be a "Yes DEFINITELY, whatever she wants!" Haha!

As we just ended our 'mid-summer, before the baby comes, wedding season', we could not have ended it on a better couple.

Brad & Ashley are two of the most heart felt people with so much love for each other. They not only love each other SO much, but they love everyone around them and they let them know it too. They are so genuine and thoughtful that just being in their presence for a few moments, you feel so warm and loved... I LOVE that! They are absolutely beautiful and so beautiful together! I think that is why I took so many photos during their day... plus the fact that it was up in Petoskey, MI, which if you have ever been there, you know exactly how beautiful it is, and if you have not ever been there, you really need to book a trip there... it's GORGEOUS! Believe it or not, it was rainy a few days before all the way up until their wedding day and Saturday we woke up with blue skies and sunny! I'm thinking that was a sure sign this couple should be together!

Todd and I had SO MUCH FUN!!! We wish you guys NOTHING but the BEST!!! XOXO!

Check out some of our MANY favorites, but you definitely need to watch the slideshow with many more of their beautiful day...

Dress: Bridal Couture of Birmingham
Flowers: Magnolia's Fresh Flowers
Church: Parr Memorial Baptist Church
Reception Venue: Stafford's Perry Hotel
DJ: Sound Productions
Cake: Sweet Maria's
Trolley: Mackinac Old Time Trolley

Ashley was amazingly stunning... No wonder Brad had tears in his eyes when he saw her for the first time...

LOVED her girls... so fun and so beautiful... (P.S. Do you recognize one of those bridesmaids???)

Brad was also very handsome and in such great spirits for this big day...

His guys were so fun and creative...

They even were coming up with poses to do... SO FUN!

Love both of their reactions when first seeing one another... melts my heart!

The church they were married at was beautiful...

Adorable...

Instead of a unity candle, they braided a rope combining not only themselves together, but along with God in the center...

Can't help but love a first kiss...

Along with my favorites... the RECESSIONAL!!!

Together they are perfect!

So sweet...

One of my many favorites from their day...

Check out WAY more from their beautiful day...

Fun Times Friday :: Renee the Yogini

2011-07-08T14:32:00.002-04:00

TGIF... with another installment of Fun Times Friday!

There are only a few more Friday's left until our little guy arrives, so I'm totally cherishing these moments.

One of the fun moments I really had this past week, was when I met up with and old and dear yoga friend, Renee. Renee and I used to practice at the same yoga studio, in which we both were totally committed and let's just face it, totally addicted, to our 6am morning Ashtanga yoga class. We both were two of the "few" regular, diehard attenders to that class.

Well... all the way up until this past fall when I decided it would be fun to play flag football and I ended up breaking my finger and could not do anything on my hands, which basically was 80% of my morning practice. Then, our little guy decided he was going to start growing in my belly, which added another couple months out of the studio. But Renee is still there doing her thing and representing very proudly. I miss her along with all my yoga family, but I think about them often and I was SO EXCITED when I got an email from Renee asking me to do some photos for her.

I have done some in the past, and what an honor it was to do something fun like this again. Plus it sparked so many fond memories!

Renee, thank you for allowing me to capture some of your sweet poses... you are truly so beautiful!

LOVE this one... the combination of her and the light was AWESOME!

Such a daredevil!

LOVE IT!!! (Yes, she was holding that for quite some time!)

Namaste!!!

Fun Times Friday/Weekend!

2011-07-05T18:06:00.005-04:00

I know it's not Friday, but since the last couple Friday's have been overlooked by so much going on... I thought what about an installment of Fun Times Friday/Weekend, since it was a pretty crazy and fun weekend.

We had a great holiday weekend full of fun-company and some not-so-fun-company of my own that has not yet left!

Todd had a great friend in town that stayed with us and they kept us super busy and well entertained! We spent a good portion of the weekend out in the sun, which was awesome! I still love being out in it, even if I'm starting to get a little puffy! Oh well... I love the feeling of having a touch of color to my name. We even attended our first Tigers game of the year... even though they didn't win, it was a great game! Plus, we connected with a special friend who had recently photographed us in a maternity session. (Check them out) We also 'listened' to quite a few fireworks, even if it was from a distance. I say 'listened' because our little guy decided that he wanted to prep me for his arrival and remind me that he's coming soon, as some not-so-fun Braxton Hicks kept me from walking too far, and has since decided not to leave yet. We did light some sparklers, so I guess that makes up for not seeing some up close and personal.

But all in all, it was a great weekend and one that should be remembered and cherished!

I hope everyone had a fun and safe weekend of their own... Happy Holiday!!!

Boys & Girls, don't try this at home... I almost got shot by one... Haha!

Happy Holiday Weekend!

2011-07-02T09:59:00.003-04:00

I LOVE 4th of July!

Although Maddox would differ since he's so scared of the sound of fireworks, and gets pretty freaked out, I love how it's full of SUN, cookouts, fireworks, friends & family, and most importantly SUN... I know I said SUN twice, but that is key, especially for someone who hates cold, like me, even if it is 90+ degrees! The SUN is awesome and it does not only feel nice on the skin, but it is making our lovely plants grow like wildflowers, and with our ever expanding garden this year, or I should say "tomato garden" as we decided to try WAY more heirlooms this year, but each day of sun is one more day closer to be able to enjoy those sweet, yummy, juicy fruits or vegetables, whatever they are technically considered.

I was actually pleasantly surprised today when I was watering because a slight hint of color caught my eye and after investigating further, I came across a little teaser! A little sunsugar tomato, which if you have not ever tried and like tomatoes it is a MUST, was in full bloom, I'm talking bloomed enough to EAT. Oh my goodness was it deeeeeelicious! It was definitely a teaser that's for sure and it's a good thing I caught it early enough or else some other teeth might have gotten to it before me...

I hope whatever your plans are for the weekend, that it's awesome!

Happy 4th of July!!!!

Steve & Katie :: Wedding

2011-06-28T15:17:00.002-04:00

ROAD TRIP!

Who doesn't love a good road trip with your best friend?!

Todd and I love to travel! We are big fans of going to places we've never been and seeing things we've never seen. Todd is especially great at finding fun and healthy restuarants that he knows I'll enjoy. He's so thoughtful! We just wish Maddox enjoyed car rides because we would love to bring him more often. He's such a weirdo when it comes to car rides... he doesn't even like the windows rolled down. Strange... yes, we know! Haha!

The only thing that I wish was easier, was if we had teleport powers. Wouldn't that be incredible?! I can be pretty impatient and feel like I'm one of those kids who is constantly saying or thinking, "Are we there yet?". Haha! But once we get there, the trip is totally worth it!

It seems our June weddings have been great road trips and very much perfect in timing, considering were not sure when it'll just be the two of us traveling together for a while.

But earlier this month we headed over to the lovely city of St. Charles, Illinios, which is just past Chicago for a beautiful couple's wedding, and I'm talking BEAUTIFUL!!!

I met Steve & Katie a few years back as they were planning a fall wedding, but felt it was better timing to swap to a summertime celebration, and what a celebration it was! I was so excited for this wedding because both of them are super sweet, super fun, and sooo much in LOVE! They are adorable together, and that was just a given considering we spent a few hours around Chicago doing their engagement session. What a fun time that was!

Todd and I were so thrilled to be able to have an excuse to travel, along with being a part of such a beautiful day of theirs. It was a WIN-WIN situation for us, as the weather was perfect, couple was perfect, venue was perfect... and one we've never been to before... I LOVE LOVE LOVE photographing in new locations... such a huge BONUS! Plus if anything were to have happened to anyone during the wedding both Steve & Katie, and half of their bridal party were nurses so I think they would've been covered. Haha!

Congratulations you two... we were so grateful to be a part of such a PERFECT day! We wish you the absolute best!

Check out some of my favorites and a slideshow with more from their day...

Dress: David's Bridal
Venue: Hotel Baker
DJ: Friend of the couple
All decorations were handcrafted by the Bride and her helpers (SO fun!)

Katie was SO BEAUTIFUL...

All of her girls were not only gorgeous, but super sweet!!!! LOVE THEM ALL!!!

And Steve looked so handsome... and check out his guys shoes... (LOVE THEM!)

Super fun guys...

I love how excited they were to get married... so sweet!

One of my absolute favorite shots!!!

Love this...

Rarrr...

Adorable!!!

Check out WAY more from their beautiful day...

John & Jennifer :: Wedding

2011-06-22T14:15:00.005-04:00

I LOVE projects... who doesn't right?

I think I drive Todd crazy with all the things I want him to do and there is a possibility that it is a little worse than normal since this whole "nesting" thing has kicked in. But since Todd is working so much lately I've recruited a new worker... my FATHER-IN-LAW. Happy Father's Day, right?! Hehe!

We recently have been fixing one of the bedrooms upstairs for a nursery, but who can have just one thing going on at a time? NOT ME! I decided that in the meantime, since our little guy is not even here yet, that I wanted to get some work done in my office. But with projects come messes, and I'm not a fan of messes. I feel all out of sorts, remember our big kitchen project last year- oh my!!!, and not put together. The good news is my office is ALMOST finished and I can get back to my normal blogging after this week and I'm so excited that I was able to sneak in a few minutes to get together one of the recent weddings we photographed...

John & Jennifer!

Two of the sweetest people I have ever met. Plus, two of the most laughable couples together I have ever met. If you remember their engagement session, it was a pure laugh session! One of my favorites for that reason... I love a good laugh and I love getting shots of people in their element, and that is their element! It made me so excited for their wedding because I KNEW it would be so fun and it totally was!

It's always great to be a part of a couples day that just love to make each other smile and laugh. Plus, Mother Nature gave them a SUPER nice day, as it was suppose to be rainy and it wasn't, all up until we arrived at the reception. Pheww... close call!

Todd and I had sooo MUCH fun... Thanks guys for being so sweet! We wish you the best in all your future endeavors!

Check out some of our favorites and a slideshow with lots more beauty's from their day...

Dress: Bella Bridal
Church: Academy of the Sacred Heart
Hair: Jamie Nanney (Contact me for Contact Info)
Make Up: Kristin Daubenmeyer (Contact me for Contact Info)
Venue: Petruzzello's
Flowers: English Gardens - Kay Kiekbusch
DJ: JD Entertainment
Wine Co.: Filipo Marc Winery

Could Jennifer be any more gorgeous... AMAZING!

And her girls were SOOO sweet... LOVED the short dresses!

John was so handsome and I love it when grooms choose to wear bow ties... so fun!

His guys were hilarious too...

LOVED everyone... they were so much fun! Haha!!!

Especially the couple... adorable!!!

They make each other laugh so much... it's so cute! (They did this all on their own... so funny!)

LOVE IT!

Check out a slideshow from more of their day...

First Father's Day!!!!

2011-06-20T12:44:00.006-04:00

Yesterday was a first for us...

I think it was more of a special day for Todd, for obvious reasons, but I was pretty happy to partake in this "first" as well.

As I was thinking about yesterday and how much it can be overlooked, I thought how sad that was... even though us mom's do a lot of work, and I'm not really one to know how much work it entails as of YET, but I do HEAR there is a lot of "work" to be a part of so we'll just go with the majority, but I thought to myself that dad's are important too, especially the love of my life, who is going to be a dad here soon! YAY!

I know for me, having Todd around is SO much fun and makes life SO much fun! We find it easy to make each other laugh, we joke a lot, we find humor in so many things, along with him being the sweetest guy in the world, he has proven and earned his "BEST HUSBAND IN THE WORLD" award, especially the last few months with these lovely pregnancy side effects. Just knowing how great he is to me, has my confidence full that he is going to be the BEST DAD IN THE WORLD award pretty quickly after our guy is born, especially since he's already offering to do night feedings... YES, PLEASE! I'm totally going to hold him to that when the time comes because sleep is something that is getting harder and harder to come by these days and I know it's only going to get worse before it gets better! But we'll try not to think about that yet... one thing at a time right! Ha!

But most importantly, our first "Father's Day Celebration" was a success, and Todd felt so LOVED! I'm so happy to be sharing life with someone like him...

Todd, we couldn't imagine life without you in it and LOVE YOU SOOOO MUCH!!! XOXOXOXO!

And to all you dad's out there, I hope you had a great Father's Day and felt so much LOVE that it lasts them all year long!!!

Fun Times Friday

2011-06-17T17:00:00.004-04:00

TGIF!!!!

Wooo hoooo....

I did remember what today was because we have something special planned for today. Anyone guess what that may be?

Drumroll....

MATERNITY PHOTOS!

I'm actually feeling a bit out of my element because I'm so used to being BEHIND the camera that this is truly going to be a challenge. I might bring a photo of myself and make Todd pose with it so I can be IN my element! I kind of doubt he would go for that, but maybe I should mention that to him. If he declines, I could pull the "Pregnancy Card" and shed a few tears... that is bound to work. Haha!

No, but we are so excited to see our dear friend Jenn Anibal as we had set this up quite a while ago and it's pretty crazy that it's finally here. Oh the milestones we keep on crossing!

Last week, I mentioned to Todd that I really wanted to take more photos for ourselves. I need to get better at it because I want our kid to not only be photographed, but video'ed as well. I want to remember him when he's a baby and as he grows. As I mentioned that to him and we had family in town, I thought might as well practice up some, and who better to practice on then our niece, along with our dog! They play so well together and it's actually pretty cute how gentle he is with her. It gives us a lot of confidence that he's going to be a great big brother!

Here is one of the videos that I took that brought a huge smile to my face... (the other dog is our friend's dog that we were dog sitting... she loves kids as well!)

Happy Friday!!!

Whirlwind Weekend...

2011-06-15T17:50:00.001-04:00

Talk about a whirlwind of a weekend...

I'm not exactly sure what day of the week it is, but that's ok because I'm enjoying not knowing. It's one of times where I'm fully enjoying "living in the moment"!

We have a short break in our schedule from weddings, but have filled those weekends with quite the entertainment.

Let's just call this past weekend, the 'Weekend of the Bellies!' You'll know why here in a second...

Friday evening one of my oldest and dearest friends, Jennifer, came into town to visit her family. Lucky me, I live near them and got to share her for a night. I was so grateful that I had the opportunity to have that time with her because in all reality, I'm not sure when the next time will be as we are both expecting babies in the coming weeks. We had such a great time and I even got just a few shots of her and her adorable little belly! (XOXOX!)

The next two days were filled with even more excitement. My mom, sister, brother-in-law, niece, and niece-to-be all made the five hour trip up to Michigan for a quick visit, along with attending one of Todd and I's baby showers. I can't tell you how wonderful it was to have them around for the 28 hours that they were here. Yes, you read that right... they made the long haul up and then turned around the next day to head back home. Crazy? YES! Worth it? YES! Do it again? I'm pretty sure they would, but I'd have to ask! Haha!

As the time comes closer to the time that Todd and I will be adding to our family, it is also the time that my sister will be adding to hers as well, since she has a due date of a few days behind me. I was able to get just a few shots of her little belly and little family as well while they were here, but not as many as I would have liked since the weather decided to be freezing cold Sunday... I'm not sure what happened with that, but brrrr...

My FAVORITE... it's adorable!!!

Sooo cute!!!

Izzy was a little cold... Ok, she was REALLY cold!!!

She's still pretty cute even if she was really cold...

Happy Whatever Day it is Today!!!!

FUN TIMES FRIDAY - Mike & Angela :: Wedding

2011-06-10T14:57:00.005-04:00

It's FRIDAY...

And what a great FRIDAY it is, even despite this rain!

I have a friend coming in town tonight and then tomorrow my mom, sister, brother-in-law, and niece will be coming in tomorrow for a quick two day visit... such fun times are about to be happening... and don't worry I'll be able to have more time to share them this coming week.

I should mention our trip to Chicago was AMAZING! I have no proof that Todd and I had a great time because I forgot my point & shoot camera at home. I couldn't believe it! I even said to him, "I really need to take more photos for us and it's so hard to remember when you have a huge camera that you can't easily hand over to people to take a photo of the two of us!" and then walked out of the house without it. Bummer... but luckily I didn't back up the driveway into our other car as we were leaving... YES, that happened a few weeks back when we were going to Indiana. I may be "partially" losing it! We did, however, get some awesome photos of a beautiful couple and their wedding, so I guess that proof will come when they are done. Haha!

Right now, I have proof that we had fun a few FRIDAY'S ago with a super sweet couple, Mike & Angela.

I was so excited for this particular wedding because I have known Angela for awhile now, and being a part of this special day was a huge honor. I met up with her and her girls for some pre-wedding fun, but unfortunately, there was a 'slight mishap' that caused that fun to not be as fun as it should have been... the wedding dress shop had not done the alterations to allow Angela's dress to fit properly. (Note to all future brides: Make sure that your bridal shop DOES the alterations that they say they are going to do.) But luckily, we adjusted our schedule and they headed over to the bridal shop to get those alterations done! Phewww...

The show must go on right? And everything from there went smoothly and PERFECT! Their ceremony was so sweet and oddly funny. I have never been to a ceremony where the priest had goody bags for the couple, including starbursts and gummy candy (I almost dropped my camera just to swipe these from them... Haha! Just kidding!), along with a zebra printed bag, bottled water, a bottle of beer, and a watch. How funny!

After the ceremony, we headed over to Sycamore Hills Country Club for the rest of the evening. I was in awe of how beautiful their room was from their ice sculpture, to their cupcakes, to their table settings... everything was amazing! I could barely take my eyes off of the rows and rows of cupcakes that Angela's mom had made. What an amazing job she did!

Todd and I had a BLAST and felt so blessed to be a part of such a sweet and special day!

Congratulations you two... we had so much fun and we wish you NOTHING but the BEST!

Here are a few of my favorites along with a slideshow from more of their day...

Church: St. Louis Catholic Church
Cake & Cupcakes: Mother of the Bride
Flowers: Aunt of the Bride
DJ: TBA

Isn't Angela STUNNING?! Wow!

And her girls were absolutely gorgeous...

Mike is a lucky 'handsome' guy... can't you tell as well?!

And his guys were awesome...

I LOVED their ceremony... such a sweet time that was...

What a FUN bridal party they both had...

and I LOVE them together... they are so real and natural with each other...

And so stinkin' cute!

LOVE those shoes...

LOVE IT!

Check out their slideshow with more photos from their day...

Happy Anniversary Ol' Kitchen!

2011-06-09T17:30:00.011-04:00

It has been a year since we tore you up and put you back good as new!

Haha!

Last summer was probably the most intense summers yet. We not only had tons going on outside of the home, but tons going on inside of the home. Including a mess that looked something like this...

Try living like this for a couple months... it's not easy! BELIEVE ME!

But I am proud to say that we all survived and are now able to enjoy all the hard work we put into that once HUGE MESS! We are still working on a few decoration stuff, but for the most part our hard work is able to be enjoyed!!!

Happy Anniversary Ol' Kitchen... We love you now more than EVER!!!

FUN TIMES FRIDAY!

2011-06-03T14:09:00.003-04:00

FUN TIMES FRIDAY!?!

Time is surely flying by, and with the countdown of our little guy's arrival around the corner, time is going by a little too fast for my speedometer. I know I might say that often, but seriously, Time slow down! I'm pretty laid back, so all this time that's floating by is making me a crazy woman. Ha... not really! But I just don't like it! I am really trying to cherish these moments that happen on a daily basis that make life so great. I know that life will continue to be great once our baby boy comes, it will just be a tad bit different!

So why not dedicate a day to relive and share those fun moments with you all, whether they are monumental or pure random?

I think that's a great idea... so hopefully you all enjoy it as well.

This past week has been spent most of my time glued to the computer trying to edit all these photos from last weekend's weddings, which were so FUN all around! I love going through the photos because some of them literally make me laugh out loud and you all know I love a good laugh! I'm sure I'll have some to share later...

But mid-week I had a special visitor from down south. My good friend came in town from Florida to visit family, and I was able to take a few hours to spend with my sweet pea and boy was it glorious!!! Such a fun time spent with this chick! XOXOXO!

I'm pretty excited for this coming weekend as we make our way over to Chicago for another wedding weekend... I can just feel some good times coming our way as Chicago is always some good times!

Have a great weekend!!!

Happy Memorial Day!

2011-05-31T17:12:00.002-04:00

Happy (one day late) Memorial Day and what a beautiful Memorial Day it was...

I was so excited that we had such a great weekend, consisting of great back-to-back weddings, great people, great weather, great all around fun times!

I even have the photos to prove it...

I will have more to post this week as a stomach bug caught up with me last week and I swatted that thing out the door.

I hope everyone had a wonderful Memorial Day as well!

Home Sweet Home

2011-05-24T12:47:00.003-04:00

What a great week it was last week, minus the rainy weather!

I had the opportunity to spend some time with my family in Indiana and it was absolutely wonderful!

But you know the phrase, "There is NO place like home"? That is exactly what it's like to be here at home with my hubby & pup!

I think both of them missed me a TON anyways... so it's good that I came back when I did... I came home to the Adams Family or something because I walked in the door and there was no lights on, no windows opened, all the blinds were closed, it was so dark and stuffy in here that I immediately opened everything possible, which is how I usually keep the house, so that there is tons of light and air to flow through all the cracks and crevasses possible! I LOVE IT!!!

I'm pretty sure this guy missed the best part of his day too... SUNBATHING!!! Ha...

I'm so excited to share all the fun sessions we will be having in the coming weeks with you all... but until then... Happy Tuesday!

Where does the time go?

2011-05-16T19:24:00.004-04:00

This year is surely flying by...

It seems like we were just ringing in the new year and here we are almost half way through 2011! Crazy!

I kind of wish it would slow down a bit as life is going to be changing here in just a few months in a really different way, but in a good way!

This past weekend Todd and I travelled down to Indiana for the first celebration of this life-changing time... my first Baby Shower! That is really weird saying that, but what a fun time it was and I got to see lots of great friends that are down here, along with my family favorites... including this little burger....

Not sure who it is???

Yes, it's Miss Izzy B... (she's not much of a camera fan anymore... bummer!)

But she is a HUGE cuddle fan, including with her Uncle Todd... (PRICELESS moment)...

And a HUGE fan of her Aunt Abby... (at least that's what I think... haha!)

But the main event was awesome! I had a wonderful time with friends and family celebrating this part of life we are about to enter into. My bestest, sister, and mom threw the most wonderful shower filled with so much love, smiles, and laughs... it was PERFECT!

My sister made the most wonderful cake and OH-MY-WORD was it deeelicious!!!

Our baby boy was blessed with lots of amazing gifts... everyone was so generous, which was sooo thoughtful!

Todd even showed up at the end to see some of the wonderful people who came all the way out to support us... what a great guy and an even better "Dad-to-be"!!!

I even decided to spend a couple extra days in Indiana for some QT with some special people since this will be my LAST trip here with our wedding schedule and before our baby boy makes his way to us. But I do think it's a good thing because I have a lot to learn, including how to handle this stage... Haha!

Oh where does the time go? It seems like just yesterday this little girl was born into this world and now she's such a big girl!

Enjoy those moments people because life sure does fly by...

Happy Monday!!!

Angelo & Ann :: Wedding

2011-05-11T15:52:00.005-04:00

April 29th is a GREAT day!

To me, April 29th is the day before the love of my life's birthday and I'm usually rushing around trying to find something for him because he is the HARDEST person to buy for... haha! But then April 30th is awesome because I get to celebrate the birth of my love. But to a certain couple, April 29th is the BEST day of their lives.

Angelo & Ann started dating on April 29th 5 years back, so why not make this day an even more monumental day, and turn this into the day to say "I DO!".

I LOVE that! What a great day to make it an even more special day in their lives, and next year they plan to make this day an even MORE special day by having a celebration with friends and family for a celebration/reception of their relationship! Awww... I'm in love with this couple!

Angelo & Ann said their "I DO's!" in a small intimate ceremony at the Conservatory on Belle Isle with a few family members, but before their "I DO's!" we had a really fun time making this day even more special by going around downtown Detroit to all their favorite places for some photos capturing not only the extremely beautiful day, but their extremely beautiful relationship. I know both Todd & I had the best time just being able to hear more about their relationship, their love, laugh with them, smile with them... what an awesome day!

Check out some of my favorites from their day along with a slideshow with more... (there were SOOO many favorites!)

Dress: David's Bridal
Venue: Belle Isle Conservatory
Flowers: Affordable Flowers

Ann was SOOOO gorgeous...

Before their first look, Angelo's phone started ringing... Haha! What a funny moment to start the day...Ha!

LOVED their first look!!!

Angelo looked so charming... LOVED that he chose the white tux!

The DIA... the sight of their first look and one of Angelo's favorite spots...

What a beautiful day and such a beautiful couple...

Comerica... loved it there and they love the big tiger!

Haha!

Oh My... I'm in love with how beautiful it was... and how beautiful they are!!!

Work it!

Gorgeous!

Check out more of their day... along with their ceremony as well!!!

My trip to Haiti... through Todd...

2011-05-09T14:29:00.004-04:00

Well a few weeks back, Todd took the trip of my life. I say it that way because I was not able to go, but I felt like I was there for that week. I thought about it for so long and dreamed of it so much, that when Todd left to go on the trip, I was pretty heartbroken.

Todd along with about 18 other people made the flight down to Miami, then to Port au Prince, then by bus to Jacmel, then by dumptruck to Seguin, Haiti with an organization called Raincatchers. This organization is awesome and they provide gutter systems to Haitians for them to have clean drinking water. LOVE THAT!

The minute he left, which was about 4 in the morning a few Saturday's back, I was an emotional wreck. I could not believe for one that I was going to be alone for the next week, not that I get super lonely but let me remind you he was going to be in a third world country with people he did not necessarily know too well an no form of communication with me, along with me being pregnant is not a good combination, and for two, this was suppose to be a trip with myself included, so I was pretty upset I was not going to be there.

After the initial shock wore off that he was going to be gone for awhile, I had more peace about him being there because I knew he was going to be doing some MAJOR goodness to this world and what an opportunity to do that.

Fast forward through that week and the Saturday came when he is to fly back in to Detroit... I was so excited! I stayed up so late because I wanted to be able to go to the airport and pick him up. It was like our wedding day all over again... I had butterflies in my tummy because I was so anxious to see him, the anticipation was killer... but the time flew by and there he was all tan and 10 lbs lighter. Ha! It was perfect seeing him again...

We stayed up even later talking about his trip and I was in awe of all of what he got to experience and super jealous! But knowing my situation, it was not the time to be brave and bold and risk anything dangerous to happen.

I'm so excited to share some photos from his trip because not only are they a huge testimony on what this organization does to help, but it is also a reminder of what we have and should be thankful for each and every day!

Haiti had a HUGE earthquake last January that pretty much destroyed most of the buildings in Port au Prince... this is just ONE of the many buildings that were destroyed and most of the destroyed buildings are still looking this way with not a lot of hope for it to look much different than this anytime soon...

A lot of people lost their homes, so they have formed "tent cities" where they now live...

This was their form of transportation up the second half of the mountain...

On roads like these for 4+ hours... and this is a 'NICER' part of the road...

But the trip is worth all the trouble because THIS is where most get their drinking water... notice that this one pond is where animals bathe, people bathe, people wash clothes, and much more uses for the same water as it is to drink from...

And THIS is a RAINCATCHER! Basically, when it rains the water streams down the roof, into the pipe, through a filter, and into the barrel... which in turn is clean water to drink...

Haiti has some terrible deforestation problems... way up in the mountains with NO trees... terrible situation!

Soooo cute!!!

Look at all those kids that just follow them around... adorable!

Haha...

So sweet!!!

This makes me so sad... poor guy!

There are some really beautiful spots in Haiti, this is on the way up the mountain...

Todd, and this particular team that went, were able to provide more clean drinking water to 57 more Haitian families while he was there... so AWESOME! I am in awe of the impact they made to those people, and every little step counts towards a better world.

Please keep Haiti in your prayers as there is so much corruption and destruction that is there, that it is so hard for people to make a better life for themselves or for their children!

If you are interested in more information on Raincatchers, check out their website. I know Todd would be more than happy to share any information as well as he has expressed how much he wants to return for more.

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-08T07:37:00.003-04:00

Happy Mother's Day!!!

What a great day it is...

I think this year is a little different than most years. This year, I am celebrating the fact that I am continuing to having two awesome mom's in my life. I'm so grateful to have two of the most beautiful ladies in my life, showing me an example of what mom's should be like.

But this year, I'm celebrating the fact that here in a few months, I'm going to be one of those ladies, hoping to earn that AWESOME title one day. We'll see how well I do with that part, but I'm doing pretty good with all the "Pre-Mom" stuff... so I would think I'm earning my badge of AWESOMENESS as we speak. Right, big guy???

Haha! Let's hope he doesn't come out looking like that, but that's the visual you get for a few more months... well that's how big he supposedly is, I'm thinking he's twice that size by the way I feel him move! Haha!

But I hope everyone has a wonderful day and one that they take the time to soak in all the goodness!

Happy Mother's Day!!!!

Another Beautiful Day!!!

2011-05-05T14:56:00.004-04:00

I'm in love with the last couple days and how beautiful they have been.

I'm sure EVERYONE can agree that this weather is too good to be true. But it is May now, and we should start expecting a lot more of this...

Aaaaa... so great!

It's been a busy week and I have not been able to enjoy much of the outside because I've been trying to get this last weekend's wedding done, but here is a sneak peek of how gorgeous they had it...

So excited to share the rest with you all!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LOVE!!!

2011-04-30T07:58:00.007-04:00

Look at this face...

Is he not the cutest little boy you've ever seen???

I think so... and today that cute little boy turns another year older and although he looks similar to that cute little boy face, he is much older today. Let's just say a good 20+ years older!

I'm so excited for today, as I look forward for this day every year, because we get to celebrate the day the love of my life decided to come into this world! A good 9lbs. into this world I should add... that little detail would not even phase me years before this year, but seeing how we are going to be having a little boy of our own come a few months... that little detail is quite a big detail (to me anyways). Haha!

Why did you have to be so big??? Why? Why? Why?????

Just kidding!

I still love you and I'm so grateful to be able to share a piece of this life with you... You are the most amazing person I have ever met and I honestly love you more and more each and every year that passes!!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LOVE!!!! I hope today is filled with lots and lots of love... because you deserve it!

XOXOXO!!!

Max :: 6 months

2011-04-29T08:38:00.001-04:00

1/2 of a year... 6 months... 2 sets of 3 months...

Ok I really can't do math, so I'm just going to stop there... Ha! It all equals the same thing. But to a baby, there is so much that happens in those months.

Last time I saw Max was 3 months ago, when he was 3 months old. He was so stinkin' sweet and cute, and although he was just a tad fussy, he had his reasons. However, this time around he was even MORE sweet and cute, and no fuss in him whatsoever! He has gotten so smiley, and literally smiles on command, or whenever they sing to him, which is so sweet! He seriously LOVES when he gets sung to... I was amazed by all the things they were doing to get him to smile, then once those words came out of their mouth in a song like tune... it was MAGIC! Adorable!!!!

I can't wait to see him 3 months from now, even cuter and sweeter than ever!

Here are a few of my favorites from our session...

ADORABLE!!!

All smiles...

I love this face he's making... Ha!

Awww...

Haha...

Look at those gorgeous blue eyes...

LOVE IT!!!

Baby Cooper :: Newborn

2011-04-27T13:47:00.003-04:00

Isn't it funny when you see a little newborn baby, and they have such a sweet face, adorable little fingers and toes, an innocent persona, features that resemble both mom and dad, yet there is one strong feature that neither parents have?

Say for example, a full head of red, spiky hair?

VERY cute, yet a bit strange! Ha!

Well that is exactly what Baby Cooper was born with. He was born teeny, tiny with a full head of red, spiky hair. How cute is that? He definitely looks like his mom and dad, but neither one of them has a full head of red hair, nor were they born with a full head of red hair. Haha!

I was so excited to meet this little guy, well because who wouldn't want to meet a little newborn, right? But not only was he blessed with lots of hair, but he also has such fun facial expressions. It's fun to see little newborns pucker their lips, suck on their hands, but this little guy was working the camera like he came out of the womb to do so. I had taken so many photos because his face kept changing over and over. He even gave some smiles, which was SUPER cute! I wonder if he will be very expressive when he gets older? Hmm... I guess we will have to see!

Congratulations you guys... we are so excited to watch this little guy grow up!

Here are a few of my favorites from our session...

Adorable!!!

Look at that little face...

Haha... such a happy baby!

Hey now... Haha!

Aww...

PRECIOUS!!!

Love it!!!

Daddy plays guitar... wonder if he'll be doing that as well?

Sooo cute...

Happy Easter Weekend!!!

2011-04-25T14:36:00.004-04:00

What a great Easter weekend it was... amazing weather, amazing company, amazing celebrations, amazing all around!!!

Cannot complain one bit!

I even got a surprise guest appear at our doorstep. Friday, as Todd and I were leaving church, I got a surprise text from one of my closest and dearest friends, Abbey. She said she was heading my way... and I was first in awe and second extremely excited because I have not seen her in months! We rushed home and soon enough she was knocking at our door. I can't tell you how happy I was to see her. What a great way to start the weekend!

The weather was perfect and we were able to hang out a bit before she had to head back to the home front of Ohio, before she leaves for the big ol' country of Russia. I think this girl has way more stamps in her passport than any other person I know.

I hope you all had a wonderful Easter weekend, one that was full of love, life, and sunshine!

Happy Monday!

Baby Colin :: Newborn

2011-04-21T14:36:00.003-04:00

Our Final Contest is finally done... What a running that was and a LOT of fun, I should add!

The winner was the lovely Nathan & Alexa...

Congratulations you guys and to all three contest winners! I'm excited for next years already!

Speaking of excited... it doesn't take much to get me that way... but I was so excited to have been having the opportunity to take some photographs of some newborn baby BOYS lately, especially since we will be having one coming in somewhere around 4 months or so... CRAZY!!!

One of those sweet little boys was baby Colin. What a small and precious little guy he is! I could not tell you how adorable this little guy is. He has such a sweet face and soft skin! Adorable!

Congratulations you guys... I'm so excited to watch him get bigger and bigger!!!

Here are a few of my favorites...

LOVE this... precious!

Umm... can we just say "ADORABLE!!!"

He was pretty comfy here... can't you tell??? Haha!

Haha...

I think he really enjoyed sucking on his arm...

His daddy plays the guitar, but I think he might be a singer...

Angelo & Ann :: Engagements

2011-04-18T13:04:00.005-04:00

I'm so glad that it's a brand new week!

I'm not so glad that it's a brand new week with SNOW, but I will take the brand new week, especially with Todd being here safe and sound. What a HUGE relief it was to pick him up at the airport and see his nice tan face... Yes, TAN face he has now, along with him losing about 10 lbs. I'm a bit jealous!!!

We stayed up so late chatting about his trip and what an amazing experience it was for him. He is already talking about going back next year. I just hope I'll be ready to go then, but we'll see... it might be two years before I get the chance to do that one. I'll share some of his photos later this week as he gets settled back in, he can help me explain some of the photos with you all.

In the meantime, I have been having some of the funnest photo shoots. One of those fun shoots was with a super sweet couple: Angelo & Ann. What a perfect couple they are! Both are so full of love, life, excitement, spontaneism (if that's a word), and just all around beautiful people! We were both so happy to hear the news of their engagement, and their story was definitely one I have never heard of before! But I loved it, especially the way Angelo told it!

We are so happy for you guys and cannot wait to be a part of your special day here in a few weeks!!! We are praying for no snow!!!!!

Here a few of my favorites from our session...

What an adorable couple...

One of my favorites... so sweet!

He loves her...

LOVE this...

Umm... can we say how perfect they are together??!!

Sooo sweet!!!

Love it!

Woooo wooo...

Sooo in LOVE!!!

Today is a Good Day!!!

2011-04-16T08:31:00.003-04:00

It has been such a LONG week... I actually didn't know when today would get here. The days were going by so slow it seemed... it was like the clocks went into slow motion and the days stretched to their max. I even think there is possibility that there was a few extra hours placed in some of those days.

But the good thing is... today is here and today is a good day!

I have been looking forward for today for SOOOOO long... well maybe only about 8 days, but the anticipation just might kill me if the excitement doesn't.

Todd should be arriving home late this evening, but the thought of him coming home has butterflies in my tummy! It's like our wedding day all over again.

Granted we have been apart before, this time was way different. One being he was out of the country, two being I had no idea when or if I would be able to hear from him, three being the obvious one, I'm pregnant and the thought of something happening and me being a single mom quite possibly scares me to death. I'm sure the list could go on, but the fact is... I made it through the week and I did hear from him just a few times for a few minutes, but long enough to know he's safe and he was having an incredible experience.

I can't wait to hear all about it and be able to share his experience with all of you!

In honor of that excitement, guess what I will have for you all next week???

You guessed it... lots of fun shoots that I did this past week!

Angelo & Ann

Baby Colin

Max

Baby Cooper

Excuse My Absence...

2011-04-13T16:43:00.002-04:00

It's so hard to sit inside when it's so nice out...

Please excuse my absence as Maddox and I are enjoying this nice weather. I've been busy with some great shoots lately and can't wait to post them, but the sun outdoors is calling my name.

Safe and Sound...

2011-04-11T22:01:00.004-04:00

A couple months back, I told a story of wanting to go somewhere and be "useful". I wanted to go to a place to not only help as much as I could, but also to bring a new visual perspective on life... little did I know that even though I really wanted that to happen, there were 'other' plans for me.

In those last couple months, Todd and I had decided were going to team up with an organization called Raincatchers. Raincatchers is based out of Haiti and their main goal is to build gutter systems for the locals to provide them with clean drinking water. I thought that would be such an amazing experience, especially with all of the stuff that has been going on there.

But as the time grew closer to go, the country of Haiti was holding some elections and they were having some problems with rioting, it was just not safe for us to go then, so our trip had to be postponed. I was so bummed! I had hope because they were going to be postponing to a time I could go, luckily it wasn't going to be in the middle of summer, in the midst of all the weddings we were going to be involved with.

Well a little other "surprise" came and basically, my chances to go were deleted. But even though I was unable to follow through with the trip, my other half, Todd, was still on board to go and make a difference... and the team he is with have not wasted any time in doing so.

I have not heard from him personally, since he did not know the conditions of communication, but I have heard an update from someone who is in connection with the current team over there now, and I do know they made it safe and sound, and a pretty cool story I wanted to share. It turns out that once they flew in to Port au Prince, they were delayed at customs, which I am told is pretty rare. As they finally made it out of customs and were making their way up the mountain to the clinic they were going to staying at, they came across a bus accident that JUST happened, and were able to help them out. That is pretty amazing... being delayed and the accident, doesn't seem like a coincidence... seems pretty "intentional" to me.

After hearing that, it gave me such a calmness knowing that as much as it really stinks not having my love and friend here, I know he is being used for the greater good! And believe me, it was REALLY, REALLY hard for me to say goodbye for JUST a week! I know it's for the best and he is going to be doing some amazing things this week!!!

Happy Monday!

Last, but Not Least...

2011-04-06T13:59:00.006-04:00

If you know me and you read this blog much, you will know that my most favorite photos are usually ones that happen naturally, and the ones that really make me smile are the ones that happen right after a couple is announced as "HUSBAND AND WIFE"!

I LOVE those moments when a couple takes their walk down the aisle, hand in hand, with all their loved ones standing and applauding with so much joy! It brings a smile to my face just thinking about it!!!

That is why the LAST contest consists of my most favorite Wedding Recessional Moments from 2010.

Here are the finalists (in no particular order)...

#1 Mike & Karen

#2 AJ & Abby

#3 Simone & Jessica

#4 Nathan & Alexa

#5 Andrew & Meaghan

I LOVE them all, but now it's your turn to share your LOVE and pick your FAVORITE moment that made you smile as well.

The winner will receive a 6 x 6 gallery wrapped canvas and the FRONT spot to the splash page of our website.

Voting takes place via Facebook, so travel on over to our Veldman Photo Page, "Like" us, and then head to the photo gallery "2010 Wedding Recessional Moments Photo Contest Finalists", "Like" your favorite one (ONLY "likes" will count as votes), and go ahead and share it with all your friends, family, co-workers, neighbors, etc... Remember you must "like" our Veldman Photo Page first or else you will have trouble voting.

Enjoy picking your favorite... Voting will end Wednesday, April 20 at 12PM EST, so get going!

Happy Wednesday!!!

Baby Liam :: Newborn

2011-04-04T15:12:00.004-04:00

HE'S HERE!!!

Earlier this year, we had the opportunity to photograph a maternity session for Patrick & Rachael, and just a couple weeks back, the little guy made his way to be with them. How exciting!!!

I always love being a part of such sweet moments like these, to follow up with them, and to be able to document those really do last a lifetime! I had such a fun time taking these because shortly before their maternity session was when Todd and I found out we would be having a little bundle of joy this year as well, so we chatted about that and how scary it was for me. Ha! I knew I wanted kids ONE day, I just wasn't expecting it to happen the way it did, a bit out of "schedule", you could say! But even though it wasn't our plan, it was meant to happen and I'm so excited for our little guy, just like Patrick and Rachael were excited for theirs!

Baby Liam is so adorable! He was such a good baby too... he really gave us some cute faces, and when they are that age, all those cute faces are so stinkin' sweet and give you HUGE smiles! Love it!!!

Congratulations you two... he is adorable and such a sweet little guy!

Here are a few of my favorites, although he was so cute it was hard to choose!

Look at that little face... ADORABLE!

So Sweet!!!

I think he likes sticking his tongue out... Ha!

But he's so sweet...

Aww...

Precious!!!

Oh my... so cute!

He's spent!!!

Excuse Me... Who invited You?

2011-04-01T14:44:00.002-04:00

Guess what???

Todd and I had our baby...

Ummm... that can't be, can it???

APRIL FOOL'S!!!

This is just a preview of a little guy I had the opportunity to take some photos of earlier in the week, and more will be posted next week as I finish them up.

But the title is really trying to explains an unwanted visitor that has arrived here.... a stupid COLD!

I thought I had a great immune system. Bummer! I don't usually get sick, besides here and there the last year or so, and let's not forget the dreadful flu bug we had over Christmas. Oh my... that was way worse than what I'm experiencing now, but now I feel hopeless because I cannot do much to make it go away, besides putting honey in my warm water, gargling with salt water here and there, laying on the couch while I get bed sores... how depressing! It's stuck in my nose, throat, and head... I do feel like I'm getting a pretty good cardio workout ever time I go up and down the stairs, but that could be the extra weight I have right now and the fact that my lungs are being pushed up my chest and they don't have their usual space to expand. Haha!

Well let's hope I wake up tomorrow feeling better and refreshed or else I might just consider chopping my head off, I would do so much better without it right now... Ha!

Enjoy your weekend!!!!

The Guessing Game Comes to an End...

2011-03-29T10:36:00.011-04:00

What a CRAZY week last week was!!!

I started to forget what day it was and I apologize I was unable to post much. I guess you have weeks like that, and last week was surely one of those.

It was a BIG week over here for Todd and I as we venture into the next phase of our lives... the GENDER of our baby!

We had our anatomy ultrasound on Friday morning, which was absolutely incredible! Who would have thought that from our first ultrasound at 8 weeks, that the tiny little tadpole, that seriously looked like an alien, swimming around would turn into an actual person with a normal shaped head, arms, legs, and cute little belly! Although we chose not to find out if our baby was in fact a he or a she at our appointment, it was still really fun to see how much our little tadpole had changed.

I know for me, I have always wanted to wait to find out the gender of our baby until they were actually born, but Todd wanted to find out as soon as we could, so as a compromise we decided to find out after the appointment with friends and family surrounding us in anticipation, smiles, hugs, and a warm atmosphere without my naked belly showing. Haha! Plus, we LOVE parties, so why not plan one that would reveal such fun and exciting news, right?!

During the actual ultrasound, we let the tech know our plan, and how we just wanted her to write down what the gender was on a card we brought and have her seal it. After the appointment, we took the sealed envelope to my favorite cake designer, Nina from Nina Kelly Cakes, and she made a cake, by dying the batter either pink or blue, depending on if the card said "Girl" or "Boy", then she iced it, and added an amazing design the that was incredible! I swear this girl has more talent than Cake Boss! She's AMAZING! Plus, her stuff is DEEEEELICIOUS!!!

So the waiting game began... until... later that night, when Todd and I went out to eat to celebrate the success in our plan. We came back home to watch a movie, as usual when a movie pops into the DVD play, I'm out like a light. But after a few hours, I was woken up and told to go get ready for bed. I was half asleep and had no idea what was going on, all I knew was that I needed to find the bed upstairs. I was SOOOO tired! But low and behold that was not going to be the case and there was a knock on the door and in comes....

My bestest...

WHAT???? Seriously, someone needed to wake me up ASAP. How did she get up here without me knowing? TODD!!! How'd he keep that from me so long? I was so confused, but all I know is that they are both pretty sneaky. It just goes to show you why these two are two of my favorite people... I LOVE them so much!

Anyways...

Saturday came around, which the anticipation was extremely hard, but since my bestest was in town, she was keeping my mind totally occupied. Plus, later in the day, my mom made the drive up for our party as well. I was so excited! We all had a great day hanging out and after picking up the gorgeous cake...

and 8PM had come around, it was time for the reveal... I felt like it was our wedding day again, the excitement, the anticipation, the emotions were all so overwhelming, yet it was TIME for our lives to move forward and find out what this baby growing in my belly would be... PINK OR BLUE!!!

We're having a BOY!!!

We are so excited...

And the famous ultrasound that was being passed around of our baby boy's gender... this is as close as you're going to see and one day our son might kill me for posting this photo. Haha! Let's just say that there is an arrow that points right to deciding factor of how they know it's a boy... haha!

Luckily, I have some awesome friends, one of those being my dear friend and fellow uber talented photographer, Jenn Anibal, who offered to bring her camera and provided us with the reveal photos... I couldn't have been more excited about that, considering Todd and I were debating on who we should give the camera to. Ha... we can't be two places at once, huh?!

We are both so excited and are so glad we were able to find out the way we did... what a memorable moment to share with our loved ones!

One of my TOP 5 moments of my life!!!

The Guessing Game Begins...

2011-03-23T10:14:00.003-04:00

Saturday's are usually BIG days for us here at the Veldman house... particularly between the months of May - October, with a few here and there between the months of November - April. Ha!

People sometimes ask us... "Does it ever bother you that you work weekends during the summer?" And right away, my answer is "NO. I don't mind it one bit!" I say this because I am very blessed to be doing photography as my full time job and I can always take a day off during the week or two or three or get all my work done in one day and relax outside in the sun for the next... hehe! Which in that case, I do not mind one bit working on Saturdays!

But THIS coming Saturday is going to be a Saturday that is going to go down in our history books. It is not one of our typical Saturday events, nothing like getting our camera equipment all packed up in the car, taking tons of photos while a loving couple say some extremely sweet vows to each other, no fancy reception dinner, and no witnessing of tons of people dance to the "Cha Cha Slide"...

We are going to be spending our Saturday anxiously awaiting until around 8 P.M. when we will cut into a cake that will determine if we will be having a GIRL or a BOY! Up until now, we have had a hunch of what we think it is and we have quite a few people put in their guesses, but it will all be "OFFICIAL" come THIS Saturday!

I can't believe how time is flying by, but we are all so excited especially Maddox.

He is seriously screaming with excitement.... Can't you tell??? Haha!

We will keep you all posted, but feel free to add your guess to the mix....

And it Continues...

2011-03-18T08:40:00.008-04:00

Some of my most absolute FAVORITE photos have been taken from those moments where people are not expecting a photo to be taken.

You know the ones when someone is in the midst of laughing so hard they want to cry, or when they are first announced as husband and wife, the music starts, and they begin that treck down the aisle with a huge applause or standing ovation, or when when they are so wrapped up in each others beauty tears start streaming from their eyes (LOVE THAT!), but even when they are trying to be serious and one of them breaks out into a monkey impression... oh yes, that has happened before! Haha!

But moments like those can really speak to you and looking at it makes you smile from ear to ear... which brings me to my NEXT category of contest:

2010 FAVORITE WEDDING MOMENTS THAT MAKE YOU SMILE... (again there were seriously so many, but I had to choose 5 of my favorites!)

Here are the finalists (in no particular order)...

#1 Brian & Sarah

#2 Jason & Julie

#3 Neil & Jennifer

#4 Garry & Jen

#5 Josh & Carrie

I LOVE them all, but now it's your turn to share your LOVE and pick your FAVORITE moment that made you smile as well.

The winner will receive a 6 x 6 gallery wrapped canvas and the FRONT spot to the wedding moments section of our website.

Voting takes place via Facebook, so travel on over to our Veldman Photo Page, "Like" us, and then head to the photo gallery "2010 Wedding Moments Photo Contest Finalists", "Like" your favorite one (ONLY "likes" will count as votes), and go ahead and share it with all your friends, family, co-workers, neighbors, etc... Remember you must "like" our Veldman Photo Page first or else you will have trouble voting. Enjoy picking your favorite... Voting will end Friday, April 1 at 3PM EST, so get going!

Happy Friday!!!

Baby Isabelle :: Newborn

2011-03-16T13:09:00.003-04:00

43 weeks... seriously!!! That is a REALLY long time... and that 43 weeks is referring to how long Baby Isabelle's mom was pregnant with her. Wow!

I could NOT imagine, but I guess that could be me as well here in a few more months... ummm... YIKES! Time is sure flying by! I guess ONE of my biggest fear is that I'm going to go WAY over my due date, but going THREE weeks over... I think at that point, I might just go out and buy a trampoline, and hope that the baby falls out that way! Not sure if that will work or not, but let's hope I don't have to find out!

I'm pretty sure that Isabelle's parents agree that she was so worth that 43 week wait, even though mom was trying everything to get her out. Ha! But Isabelle is one of the most adorable little babies I have ever seen! I actually don't think I even saw her awake, as she slept the entire time, so her eye color could totally be a weird shade, which would throw off the whole "cuteness" balance, but I somehow doubt that!!! I'm pretty sure she is adorable awake or asleep! Of course, her mom and I didn't mind she slept the entire time because it gave us plenty of time to get some cute shots, and she did so well the entire time. I'm 90% sure she had a blast... but I guess we'll have to ask her when she is awake next! Haha!

Congratulations you two... she is SO beautiful!

Check out a few of my favorites... she was so adorable it was hard to choose!!!

She did start off a little camera shy... and who could blame her, it was her first photo shoot... Ha!

But then totally perked up... (can't you tell... HA!)

LOVE those little toes of hers...

Adorable!!!

I LOVE this one... it's just precious!

She kept making some really funny faces on her belly... she's so cute!

And then she was SPENT... but who doesn't love a cute, crying face like this... Awww...

And the Winner is...

2011-03-15T08:42:00.005-04:00

Brad & Ashley!

Thank you all for voting and making this beautiful couple the winner of our engagement contest! All the couples that I photographed last year were AWESOME and what a tough choice to pick your favorite, and you all seemed to agree since it was practically neck & neck up until, literally, the last minute. How fun and suspenseful!

Check them out on our website under the 'engagement portraits' section, and Brad & Ashley, I will be in touch with more details!

Enjoy this week... I'm so excited for the great weather we are going to be having... Wooo...!!!! Oh and stay tuned for the NEXT contest, I'm so excited to do this again!!!

Congratulations to you all!

Ryan & Kristin :: Wedding

2011-03-14T10:44:00.006-04:00

Phewww... I'm so glad last week is over with!

I was not feeling so hot and I think I slept the entire week away, and who could blame me with the weather being all gloomy. I think it was screaming, "SLEEP, SLEEP, SLEEP!!!" Thinking about it, I'm not exactly sure what even went on, I was in such a daze. Ha!

But I've beamed back to earth and I'm feeling alive. The weather forecast sounds so exciting this week that I'm so glad that I decided to venture back to this planet. I will definitely be living it up and hopefully enjoying what is to come. Fingers are crossed that the meteorologists are right for once... that would be AMAZING!

Which brings me to an extremely AMAZING couple that received VERY nice weather for their winter wedding: Ryan & Kristin!

I was so excited to shoot their wedding because I had so much fun during their engagement session, that I knew it would be a BLAST, and I have to say they did not disappoint! PLUS, it was our first wedding of 2011 and what a day to start off the year.

Ryan & Kristin were married over at Kensington Community Church where they attend. What a beautiful church it is! Their ceremony was so cute and you could tell they were both just so excited to be "in their special moment", and what a moment to be in and to be cherishing.

After the wedding, we quickly headed over to Penna's of Sterling Heights for photos and to partake in the rest of the evenings events. I have to say that I have NEVER been to a reception quite like Ryan & Kristin's! (I'm saying this all in a GOOD way!) They were introduced and as they entered the room EVERYONE was on their feet by the dance floor, they got the warmest entrance and they seriously danced for like 10 minutes to drums, a singer, and some keyboard... it was so loud and the energy was AWESOME! Both Todd and I looked at each other with huge smiles on our faces, and I'm pretty sure the ENTIRE room had those huge smiles as well! You could just feel all the love and excitement that Ryan and Kristin have, and it just went to show that through their extremely special day!

We had so much fun and this was definitely a wedding to remember!

Congratulations you guys... we hope Florida treated you guys well!!!

Here are a few of my favorites and a slideshow with more from their day...

Dress: Maria's Bridal Couture
Flowers: Flower's by Renee
Cake: Sweet Dreams
Limo: Lavdas
DJ/Band: Mazin
Video: TBA

Wasn't Kristin absolutely stunning...

And all of her beautiful ladies were so gorgeous... LOVED their dresses!

Ryan was very studly as well... LOVE the bow tie!

And who doesn't love a good group of guys that are both fun & handsome?!!!

LOVED them together... so great!

And so fun...

They totally work well together... what do you think?

And their whole wedding party together was awesome!

Check out more from their day... especially all the fun dancing they did coming in...

Worst Idea Ever!!!

2011-03-09T15:24:00.004-05:00

Worst idea EVER... and it was not my call!

Tonight we decided to opt out of our ritual, for I'm not really sure what the reasons were or who's idea it was to do so (not mine), I think what a terrible idea it was to do so. Wednesday's in our home, especially lately, mean we eat dinner together, catch up on what's going on in our lives, and sometime between 7-8PM we get in the Jeep, and drive our ourselves over to TCBY for Waffle Cone Wednesday!!! But as I sit here writing about that crunchy, sweet cone, filled with sweet heaven, my mind not only wonders what flavors they would be serving tonight, but my mouth is drooling over what flavor I would be shoving in that crunchy, sweet cone and WHY we are missing it... MMMMmmmm!!!

I think from now on, we should NOT switch up our Wednesday ritual or else Todd is going to have to deal with one unhappy lady and I will have anxiety over what flavors I could have sampled!!! Ughhh!!!

I will see you next week my heavenly filled cone!

But stay tuned this week for more of Ryan & Kristin...

And Baby Isabelle... (adorable!!!)

I'm soooo over this SNOW!!!

2011-03-08T15:55:00.005-05:00

Today marks the day...

The day I'm soooo over winter! I might have been over it a few months back, but today is the day I officially am declaring my hatred towards everything white, cold, fluffy, and wet, besides vanilla ice cream!

Todd told me this morning that we are suppose to be getting MORE snow... and I think I about croaked, especially being in the morning. I had to think about it all day and hate it even more... ughhh!

In frustration, I got up, stormed out of the room, gathered all my snowmen decorations up, and put them ALL in boxes until next winter. I'm hoping that my actions will allow the snow to switch directions, cause a warm front, and bring spring here SOON, I'm talking a couple days max soon! Maybe if everyone chants with me, "WE WANT SPRING! WE WANT SPRING! WE WANT SPRING!" it will happen?! Well I'm hopeful... and I guess we'll see how much longer we have to dread this awful cold weather... Blugghhh!

See you next year, Snowmen!!!!

LOL...

2011-03-03T12:39:00.002-05:00

Funny photos are my favorite...

They always bring a smile to my face, a quiet chuckle, or a flat out laughing out loud moment! You know the ones where you laugh at something and you are alone, then you laugh harder because you are by yourself and you know it, then that becomes even more funny? Am I speaking to anyone besides myself? Haha!

I love funny photos so much that I decided to devote an entire wall to them in our hallway upstairs. It's kind of like my "happy wall" that makes me smile every time I walk past. I think that is a HUGE reason why I love photography so much. Remembering those moments visually is awesome, especially since I feel my memory is fading each day that passes! Ughh... I have got to find a drug that helps with that.

Well this past year, I kept a few photos that seriously made me laugh out loud to myself as I spent MANY hours editing with crossed eyes and a sore tailbone.

I hope they make you laugh as much as they made me laugh...

HILARIOUS...

Haha...

What a great groom trying to get all the bugs out of the MANY layers of dress she had... I don't think he realized just how many layers there were... Haha!

Haha... I seriously think this is how most guys feel...

Haha!

NOW you know how I took photos of all those puppies... MANY, MANY shots of this kind... haha!

Haha... Todd always does this... crazy guy!

Oh wow... what am I doing... haha!!!

Happy Thursday!!!

Quick Visit...

2011-03-01T11:38:00.005-05:00

Don't you ever wish there was more hours in a day, especially and ONLY when you are having fun?

Ughhh... I wish for that so much, but it never seems to change! Where's that bottle with the genie in it so I can use one of my three wishes for that... the other two would be teleport powers and powers to control the weather! Haha!

Well this past weekend, Todd and I traveled down to good ol' Indiana to join in the birthday festive's with my sister. This year was a big one, as she was out of the 20's and into those 30's... YAY! We actually didn't know if we were going to be able to make it down due to those snowy forecasts, but like always, they were wrong! We did enjoy the scare as we planned to leave earlier, which then in turn left us some extra time to stop at the outlet mall along the way, even though when we pulled up, half the stores were out of business. Bummer! But once we made it, we enjoyed some fun times with the whole family, especially that little Izzy B, who is getting to be quite the character. She always says, "Abby-Todd," which is smart considering we come as a pair. But she also is so sweet, giving her kisses when you have a boo boo, giving you hugs when something is wrong, making you laugh at funny things she does, or laughing at everything you do. It's the cutest thing! It was hard to leave, considering it was such a quick trip, but I guess that is part of life... there is never enough time!

I did take a few photos while we were there, although I was busy playing, visiting, or eating... haha!

Izzy B was REALLY excited to see us when she woke up on Saturday... Haha!

I did get to see one of my oldest and dearest friends, Jennifer... so fun!

And we were there to watch my sis blow out all those candles... all 30 of them! Ha!

This was so funny... can you guess what Izzy did? Yep, she was getting the first lick... haha!

Happy Tuesday!

And it BEGINS...

2011-02-28T13:31:00.007-05:00

IT'S THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN...

FAVORITE PHOTO TIME!!!!

This is usually a Love/Hate relationship to me because I LOVE so many that I HATE choosing just a few. But somebody has to do it, and that somebody HAS to be me. (Bummer!) But after going through last year's photos, I FINALLY narrowed it down to my Top 5, under a few categories.

The first one is ENGAGEMENTS...

Here are the finalists (in no particular order)...

#1 Mike & Angela

#2 John & Jennifer

#3 Brad & Sarah

#4 Adam & Melissa

#5 Brad & Ashley

I LOVE them all, but now it's your turn to share your LOVE and pick your FAVORITE engagement photo.

The winner will receive a big hug, kiss, and a treat shaped as a bone? Ha... Just kidding... That's usually what Maddox gets when he's good! I think a 6 x 6 gallery wrapped canvas and the FRONT spot to the engagement section of our website would be a better prize. I'm sure you would agree!

Voting takes place via Facebook, so travel on over to our Veldman Photo Page, "Like" us, and then head to the photo gallery "2010 Engagement Photo Contest Finalists", "Like" your favorite one (I will also count comments as "likes", but only one per person), and go ahead and share it with all your friends, family, co-workers, neighbors, strangers that ask you to be friends that you have no idea who they are... haha! But enjoy picking your favorite... Voting will end Monday, March 14th at 10PM EST, so get going!

Happy Monday and LAST day of February!

Re-Living 2010

2011-02-24T14:56:00.006-05:00

What a year it was last year! Can you believe it is now 2011???? Wow... time sure does fly by...

2010 was so great that I have been wanting to re-live last year for a while now, as it was one of the BEST years yet! And who doesn't love great memories and smiles along the way? I know I love a good smile.

We had such a fun, crazy year, and at times I wanted to pull my hair out (see month JUNE, when the crazy town began), but I'm glad I can NOW look back and know it was all worth! I'm sooooo very excited to see what this year has for us, as I know this year will be much different than any other, it could be a whole new version of CRAZY TOWN. Haha!

We began our journey 13 and 1/2 months ago...

JANUARY

January was super fun, despite the cold (that's obvious though). We had a few sessions this month to hold us over until the REAL crazy began.

Starting the year off with the newly engaged super sweet couple, Todd & Lisha, they also educated me at the D.I.A. where our session was... never been there, but it was really neat to see!

Then Baby Ethan was born... what an adorable little guy he was...

And we ended the month fostering those TWINS for a few months... ADORABLE!

FEBRUARY

February was spent loving on our "twins" and saying goodbye to one... so sad! The downfall of fostering, rather than adopting. But we also started a photo contest, that would turn into an "annual event". Yay!

It seems that the third week of February is due for great weather, as Todd & Lisha enjoyed a warm front, and our wedding this last weekend was graced with the same luck... so perfect!!! Note to future brides & grooms: if you're planning a February wedding, shoot for the third weekend... seems to be the best!

And Miss Lily won the Baby portion of our Annual Contest... (She is actually going to be a BIG sister in a few short months! Congrads to you guys!)

MARCH

March was a nice month, as we were graced with what I called "Weather Heaven".

Todd and I also got away for a weekend over in one of my FAVORITE cities: Chicago! Love that place!!!

But we also said goodbye to our last twin, as they both found new homes, even though I totally wanted to keep them both! And I also began a long hard journey of back pain, that took MONTHS to finally relieve itself. Ughh... that's something that I could care not to re-live.

We also spent some time honoring Joe & Niki as they won the Wedding portion to our contest... (LOVE this couple!)

Then, Miss Emma turned 6 months and boy, was she adorable... we love Emma and her family!!!

APRIL

April was definitely our calm before the HUGE, MASSIVE, DESTRUCTIVE STORM that was about to pounce through our home...

We spent it traveling to the lovely Amish Country... such an intriguing culture! (This is as close as I got to taking a photo of the Amish... you know how they hate it!)

MAY

May was awesome! We had tons of shoots and it was quite the month for weddings... I LOVE MAY!!!

We started the month off with Mikey turning 3 months old... such a cute little guy!!!

Then got a little preview of Derek & Leah's love as we had their engagement session a few weeks before their wedding...

Then Jason & Julie were married... love this sweet couple...

And the stunning Brad & Ellen...

Along with Derek & Leah... (yay!)

Then we had the beautiful Kristin, who's life would be changing in a short two weeks...

JUNE

June started CRAZY TOWN...

I went to Indiana to do an engagement shoot with Andrew & Meaghan, seriously one of the funnest couples alive!

A shoot with Baby Raygan... can we say she's adorable... and I love her!!!

And the added BONUS: I got to visit this little burger...

The bad news was I came home to this being done... and our lives would not be the same for the rest of the year...

We lived like this for over 3 months... WHOAH!

We did have some fun, despite the chaos that surrounded our house... including Mark & Carly, who were so fun...

Then, Josh & Carrie, two of my most favorite people and Carrie being Todd's cousin, how could she not be one of my fav's? So glad I married into a family with such wonderful people...

Then we had the life changer of Kristin, Miss Ella Love... what a gorgeous little baby girl!

Then towards the end of the month, we got to be a part of Josh & Carrie's WEDDING... although we didn't make it any of the family photos, we were a-okay taking them... what a fun one!!!

JULY

July is usually REALLY fun because we not only got to celebrate birthday's of all sorts, but it's actually WARM and SUNNY, which means: bathing suit weather!!!

We started off the month celebrating a "joint birthday" Maddox who turned 2... that's 14 in dog years... although he's getting grey hair already and it makes me so sad, especially after just finishing the book "The Art of Racing in the Rain" which I HIGHLY recommend, but do not read it when you are pregnant, emotional, have a dog you are close with, or enjoy dogs in general, if you do, a box of Kleenex is a MUST!!!

And Maddox's birthday twin, and also my niece, Izzy B. Isn't she getting SOOOO stinkin' big???

Then John & Jennifer were engaged... and what a great couple they were... so open and fun in front of the camera! I'm super excited to work with them again...

Then Mr. Ethan turned 6 months... what a cutie...

Then we had Nathan & Alexa who were married... they were awesome to work with so calm and collected!

Plus, they had such a beautiful wedding... which was also featured on the Wedding Chicks website, a few months later!

Then we finished off the month, by traveling down to Indiana for Jonathan & Jessica reception, who were actually married in Jamaica, but came home to another fun reception. I think it's pretty relevant to add that Jessica, TWO of her bridesmaids, and I are all 4 pregnant and expecting within weeks of each other... UMMM... I think that has its own category of CRAZINESS! LOVE you guys!!!

AUGUST

August was packed full of weddings! It was extremely fun because we not only had awesome couples, but I had the opportunity to help out with a trip to Downtown Detroit to do some service projects with such an awesome bunch of high schoolers! What an inspiration!

Lots of tree trimming, trash collecting, weeding, scraping, and painting..

We also had Brian & Sarah's engagements, who are extremely adorable together...

Then Simone & Jessica's were married... such a beautiful couple!

Then Garry & Jennifer's wedding... SWEET, SWEET, SWEET couple!!!

And finished off the month with AJ & Abby's engagements... LOVED THEM!!!

But don't forget, we started making some major progress on the kitchen situation... WHAT A RELIEF!

SEPTEMBER

September is one of my absolute FAVORITE months to shoot... and it did not disappoint...

We started off with Brian & Sarah, who were married on one of the windiest days of September... it was still extremely beautiful and the wind added to those lovely photos...

Then we had Emily show us some of her crazy, rockstar moves, something that was extremely cool to shoot...

Then the lovely Mark & Carly tied the knot, although it rained all day, they had great spirits and did not let the rain get in the way of their day! LOVE THAT!!!

And the Little Miss Eden turned 8 months old... Look at that face!!!!

OCTOBER

October, October, October... this month is AWESOME! I love the fall colors, the warm-cool breeze, pumpkin is now in season, CIDER MILLS are in full swing, along with that lovely fragrent of hot apple cider and cinnamon sugar donuts... Mmm... my mouth is watering... Haha!

Who can forget how we started this month out??? We decided to make an addition to our family, although she was not a good fit and we would later find her a new home, we did provide her with LOTS OF LOVIN'...

Shortly after we kicked off October with Ben & Courtney, who were two of the SWEETEST, and I mean SWEETEST people around...

Then Jake & Leah, along with their MANY puppies showed us some MAJOR love... I can't tell you how much fun this was!!! I mean just look at those fluffy little guys and gals... AWWWW!!!

Then we had the gorgeous Mike & Karen get married... and I have to add that they had the PERFECT day, and totally deserved it with their "bad weather track record"...

Then AJ & Abby who were married, what an awesome couple...

Then Greg & Charis were engaged and super cute in front of the camera... LOVED THEM...

And Mike & Angela who were also engaged and had a BLAST working with them...

Along with all those engagement sessions, we had the lovely Brad & Sarah, who we photographed right before...

Tony & Sandy's wedding, which was double fun...

NOVEMBER

What a great month this was...

We had Little Brehm... ADORABLE...

And his little brother Lucas... equally ADORABLE...

Then we traveled down to Indiana for the beautiful wedding of Andrew & Meaghan...

And we also got to see this family again...

Plus another trip to the Amish Country... which was fun...

And came back for Brad & Ashley's engagements... I absolutely fell in love with both of them...

Then we had a "DOUBLE HOLIDAY" roll around, as we celebrated both our Anniversary and Thanksgiving all in the same day... that was fun!

(No photo of this... as we hosted Thanksgiving this year and spent all day cooking!)

But the next day, the weather got extremely cold, but that didn't stop me from photographing Adam & Melissa's engagements, as we found some great spots to warm up and get some awesome shots...

DECEMBER

December is always nice and seems to always fly by with finishing the Thanksgiving season, then back to back birthdays with my father-in-law and myself, then all the holiday season festives with shopping to accomplish and parties to attend, it's one crazy month.

We started the month off with Baby Cash being born... so cute!

And Greg & Charis's wedding, which was so sweet as one of the first snow falls came right before their special day adding some sweet wintery wedding photos...

We ended the year with a great holiday season with family and friends...

Minus the last week of the year that the flu bug decided to visit. Ughhh... I do not think I have ever been so sick in my life and would like to never relive that week... EVER!!! I mean EVER!!!!

I look back at ALL the fun and special moments we had this past year and I can only THANK YOU ALL for the love and support everyone has shared with us, whether it being in front of our camera, coming to read our blog, sharing our website with a friend or colleague or complete stranger, which we know you have done, we are SOOOO grateful to have such awesome people step in our life and appreciate you all! It truly means the world to us!

So here is your online lovin'... xoxoxo!

We are looking forward to another successful year full of craziness and lots of new adventures!

Best to you all!

Ethan :: 1 Year

2011-02-23T15:51:00.003-05:00

I do think it is the coolest thing to watch a little baby grow older. How they change from their once teeny, tiny bodies, into bigger versions! Plus... they, hopefully stop crying all the time, and turn into a REAL person, with so much character and personality... that's probably the coolest part! That's the "fun" stage!

I had the privilege to watch little Mr. Ethan grow this last year, and boy was it cool to see! From the time he was first born, to him starting to smile, and now him being the biggest hambone with such a cute face, that soft perfect skin, the brightest blue eyes, such a sweet personality, and one of the most adorable little boys you've ever seen! It has been such a wonderful year, not only watching him grow older and more cuter every day, but to be a part of his life and hopefully a good friend to our little one soon enough... maybe even a match made in heaven (If we have a girl!) Haha! We'll see...

Congratulations you guys... you three have been awesome friends and we are so excited to have been a part of your life the last year! Looking forward to many future play dates...

Check out a few of my favorites from our session...

Umm... is he not the most adorable little boy you've ever seen???

Crawling everywhere... but almost to the "walking" phase...

Mama... makes him laugh so much...

So smiley.... so handsome...

We got out an 'old' item that we used for his first ever session... look how little he used to be...

Now he wouldn't even stay in the thing long at all...

Such a ham... Haha!

Happy BIG 3-0 Sis!!!

2011-02-19T14:13:00.003-05:00

What a day...

Today could be considered a day to relax, a day to work, a day to organize and clean your house (which I totally should be doing, but choose to relax instead), but more importantly a day to celebrate something special...

Well that last part is SO true! Whatever the special occasion it is for you... celebrate!

For me, my something special is when my lovely BIG sister was born, 30 years ago! I cannot believe how grown up she is... it feels like just yesterday we were both so young enjoying our carefree kid days and now we are getting older, with our not-so-carefree days anymore, and having kids of our own. Where does the time go? I'm glad we were always goofing off together and making such fond memories to cherish the rest of our lives. We were such clowns together that whenever I think about my childhood, whether good or bad, I always remember laughing and smiling!

I have been blessed with such an amazing friend, supporter, comforter, and role model, that I'm proud to call my sister.

You have been nothing but the best over the years, (minus a few incidents, see photo below, haha! Totally kidding!) that my life would not be complete without you!

Love you and Happy Birthday!!!

Baby Max :: 3 months old

2011-02-17T14:52:00.004-05:00

For those of us who do not have kids yet, don't you ever wonder what they will look like?

I know, especially now, I am picking out traits, of both Todd and I, that I would love our baby to look and even to act like. Hopefully, our baby will be cute and have a good mix of both of us, which is a good guess, right? You never know... my niece looks pretty similar to myself and I'm just related, so it's hard telling what the little clinched fist (that's how big the books say he/she is right now) will look like.

Sometimes I even get the privilege to see what some of my bride's & groom's kids look like, which is the coolest thing ever!

Recently, I was able to do that...

Max is the making of such a sweet and beautiful couple I worked with almost two years ago. It was so fun to see not only their little one, but to see some familiar faces. They really did make a great couple and their genes were awesome because he is one of the most adorable little boys ever. He is a good mix between the two of them, so it was fun to point out different characteristics that you could visible see in him. I love getting this opportunity and it makes my job so much more special to continue on in people's lives.

Congratulations you two... I can't wait to watch him grow and grow!

Check out a few of my favorites from our session...

Look at those BIG BLUE EYES...

Sooo cute...

Not a fan of the bulky sweater... "Get me out of this!!!"...

In all reality, his best photos was when he was pure skin... LOVE that!!!

Haha... he's figuring out he has fingers!

Half smirks are the cutest...

Love the cute hat! Not sure what kind of face this is... I'm pretty sure they had to change his diaper after this... haha!

I LOVE this one... he's so adorable!

I think he's spent...

Baby Cash :: Newborn

2011-02-15T08:54:00.002-05:00

Whether your a baby person or not... the stories can be really cool to listen to and most of the time they are ALL so different!

I love the stories where couples overcome challenges... where they might not be able to get pregnant, but DO, or where they try for years, and then DO, or when a young teen gets pregnant too young and they want to choose a different life for their child and they chose THEM! You have to admit those stories are extremely cool to listen to.

Well Baby Cash was one of those stories and what an awesome challenge to overcome! As in most "baby" stuff, things happen so fast. I feel like that right now... as time is flying by way too fast and the next minute he/she will be here. Well in Baby Cash's case, his parents were given a THREE WEEK notice until their baby would be in their arms! Umm... talk about time flying by. But what an awesome opportunity for their family... and what an awesome family to be given this blessing.

Congratulations on the beautiful baby... he's adorable!

Check out a few of my favorites...

He was so calm and look at that red spiky hair... sooo cute!

He was fixated on all the window light... the WHOLE time...

Can you tell??? Haha!

I love it when babies do this... haha!

Rarrr...

Total GQ'ing it... look at that open mouth pose... haha!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T14:27:00.004-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day everyone!

I'm spending the day watching ONE of my love's flirt with his girlfriend, as they roll in the wet snow, share toys and sticks, take turns chasing each other through the yard, and an occasional "dominate dance" (that's all I'm going to say, you can use your imagination to figure it out! Haha!). Luckily, Todd is at work and Maddox is the one doing all the running around, we might have some problems if Todd was the one out back... haha!

Other than watching my one love play out back in what is turning into a mushy swamp and waiting for my other love to get home later today from work, there is not much planned. I hate to say it, but Valentine's Day to us here at the Veldman House is not really observed. I think Todd has always been the best friend/boyfriend/fiance/husband, and hasn't needed one specific day to remind me of that. I know that a lot of places, or where ever you go for that matter, really play it up, and kind of make you feel guilty if you don't buy your loved one that diamond necklace, that I know I would probably lose pretty quick, those stuffed animals with the sappy hearts on them, which would be tore up in less than five minutes if Maddox got a hold of it, or even those pink, red, and white M & M's, they do all taste the same, right?

I'm fine with eating a home cooked meal together, maybe get a little fancy and make dessert! That's asking a lot... Haha! I did, however, sneak a cute gift for Todd this year, even though I'm not necessarily "observing" the holiday, but rather using today as one of MANY days to remind him that I love him so much and life would not be the same without him.

Whatever you do or don't do... I hope you have a great one!!!!

Patrick & Rachael :: Maternity

2011-02-11T08:47:00.005-05:00

Talk about a wake up call...

Shortly after Todd and I found out that we were going to have a baby, I had what usually would be just another portrait session, but this particular one was a bit personal, for obvious reasons since it was a maternity shoot. I was so intrigued and probably asking some pretty odd questions because at this point I was in SHOCK and overwhelmed at just about everything "BABY" related. I have to apologize to Rachael, if I asked some really random and out-of-the-ordinary questions... now you know! Ha!

But what made it even more "personal" was Rachael's sister came over for a few photos, as she is expecting her second child as Rachael is with her first. Why is that "personal" you ask? Well it just so happens that MY SISTER is pregnant with her SECOND child and is due just TWO days before me... talk about a coincidence! Seriously, what are the odds? But it was really cool to chat with both of them as they are so excited for each other and both had some super fun ideas when it came to photos!

But Patrick and Rachael are expecting come the beginning of March and boy how time is flying. It was extremely fun to document this point of their lives as they are so excited for this HUGE life change. They are both extremely sweet people and you can tell are going to be awesome parents! I can't wait to meet the little guy in just a few weeks...

Congratulations to your whole family!!! What an addition both babies are going to be!

Check out a few of my favorites from our sessions... there were so many I had to narrow it down a TON!

Such a lovely couple, I'm sure this kid is going to be gorgeous!!!

Adorable... and we got lucky to get some outdoor shots before the snow erupted on us!

I LOVE this...

Baby LOVE...

Such a precious moment...

I'm in awe... such an intimate moment...

Belly shots are breathtaking...

Soooo cute!!!

One is a girl... one is a boy... can you tell from looking at these? Haha... Just look behind at the color of their tops!

Life Will NEVER Be the Same...

2011-02-09T13:36:00.006-05:00

When life gives you lemons, the best thing to do is make lemonade, right?

Well that is exactly what happened a few weeks back.

So here's the story:

A few weeks back, Todd and I celebrated Christmas with our families. We had some great times and enjoyed the time we had with both so much, the only negative thing was that we also got a visitor from the flu bug, which was not so great! Actually, I think it was probably the worst thing that has happened in a REALLY, REALLY, REALLY long time! I'm not sure I had ever been so sick in my life, other than back in high school when I had food poison which lasted a good 3 days. That could be a tie for worst EVER!

So we can fast forward through the nightmarish stories, which has since scarred some of my favorite foods that I "used" to love, including vegetable omelets... I miss you my friend! But cannot bare to think about without my stomach churning... blugghhh!!! Well after a few days, Todd started to feel better. We thought it was because he had a better immune system, and since he's around more people than I am on a regular basis, I agreed, even though I rarely get sick and take lots of vitamins and eat super healthy. Whatever! Haha!

A week had went by and I'm still pretty sick, not throwing up (Thank Goodness!), but the whole fatigue, weakness, nauseation, etc... was still there. At this point, it was also brought to my attention that there was another problem that quite honestly never dawned on me, due to some health and irregularity issues I was dealing with, that would made me think nothing could have been wrong other than Todd's advantage with working around people that get sick more often. With some convincing, Todd went and bought the THING that could determine what quite possibly would change our lives forever!

Without drawing this story out too long and getting into details that might steer people away from ever reading again... let's just say that:

Our Lives are Going to be Changing Forever!

It was a huge shock and one that has taken me a good few weeks to process, but now that we are in the "safe" zone and it is now become PUBLIC news, it's safe to let everyone know that Todd and I are going to be having a BABY! Yes, a baby... I have to keep telling myself that because it does not seem real yet other than the fact that I've been gaining some weight, stupid scale... I think it's broken, and the fact that some of my jeans are becoming quite snug around the waist, stupid dryer... I had to have shrunk them, right?!

Despite the initial shock, we are both really excited and plan to cherish the next months together, for the life we once knew will never be the same...

Happy Wednesday! Hope we didn't shock you too much... haha!

And of course, we will always love our first born. I'm not sure he understands what's going on yet, but he will... haha!

Ryan & Kristin :: Engaged

2011-02-07T12:37:00.003-05:00

I love a good laugh... who doesn't though, right?

I love laughing so much it hurts, or there are tears seeping out of my eye balls, or my abs get so sore the next day it feels like I've had a HUGE ab workout... I LOVE THAT!

Well that is EXACTLY what happened when I meet up with Ryan and Kristin for a snowy engagement session. I had mainly been chatting with Ryan, and whenever I talk to him, he always has so much energy. I couldn't believe it. I was thinking, someone with this much energy has got to be someone I really want to meet. When we did meet up in person, he did not disappoint! He is SO passionate about life, especially being it was a bit snowy and cold! He wanted to make their session memorable, which I think is such a great way to look at situations and I'm pretty sure he succeeded in that task. Despite the snow and cold, he wanted it to be perfect for him and his beautiful fiance, Kristin. He loves life and he loves his Kristin! Kristin is such a doll... extremely sweet and extremely gorgeous, with such a great heart! Plus she helps keep him focused and on track. Ha! What a great wife she will be! I love how they interact, it's absolutely adorable! You can't help but smile and laugh at how much fun they have together!

It was definitely a session for my record books and I left there with a sore face from smiling so much... sooooo cute!

Congratulations you two... we can't wait for your wedding here in a couple weeks... I know it's going to be AWESOME!

Check out a few of my favorites... there were so many to choose from...

Adorable... I knew it was going to be a great session after just a few shots...

He LOVES her... She LOVES him... soooo obvious...

Haha...

LOVE the snow... oh and the couple!

He kept doing this... haha! I think he was impressed by his MAD ring making skills...

I love how fun and cute they are...

Absolutely stunning!

Adam & Melissa :: Engagements

2011-02-04T15:35:00.002-05:00

Who doesn't love a good ice cream cone or "fake" ice cream cone for us who can't do much dairy... my belly just cannot handle the read deal very well so it's usually coconut ice cream for me...

But don't you LOVE it when you have the option to get the swirl version? Both chocolate and vanilla... or raspberry and vanilla... or some other flavor and some other flavor??? It's awesome... and when you taste your first taste, all the flavors combine into a taste-bud-palooza... Mmmm... I kind of wish I had some in front of me right now.

I sometimes feel like people can be the same way. You meet someone, they are extremely nice and fun, but then you meet another part of them, and in this case a fiance, and both of them together are 10x as nice and 10x as fun!

That is exactly what happened when I met up with Adam & Melissa....

You see, Adam was actually a groomsman in one of my favorite weddings in 2009. He remembered us from that wedding and mentioned to me that he enjoyed our work, ALONG with how much fun he had playing on this playground equipment for photos. I started laughing because what a moment to remember. I'm laughing as I write this because I remember that exact "pose", it was totally spontaneous and a bit hilarious! All the guys in this wedding were such characters and I loved every one of them. I was glad he remembered and it reminded me how fun that wedding was, PLUS he mentioned that for him and Melissa's wedding there would be a lot of familiar faces, so that is a big bonus!

But I had the chance to meet Melissa, and I feel in love with her... she's so sweet and fun and both together compliment each other so well. It's total chocolate and vanilla. They have such great hearts, and just by watching them for a few moments, you can tell how much they care and love each other! It's so adorable!!!!

I can't wait to be a part of another awesome couple's day! What a reminder of how fortunate I am to be able to do what I love as well as meeting some pretty amazing people along the way!

Thanks Adam and Melissa for stinking out the extreme COLD weather for some beautiful photos in the end!

Check out a few of my favorites from our session...

Such an ADORABLE couple!!!!

I love this...

Can you tell it was freezing, windy, and that Melissa had lost feeling in her face??? They still are so stinkin' cute and I love the way Adam looks at her... like she is the most beautiful girl in the world...

Which she is absolutely gorgeous...

They love having fun together...

And love to make each other laugh SOOO much!!!

Such a cool "hidden gem" spot... LOVE IT!!!!

Greg & Charis :: Wedding

2011-02-03T13:51:00.006-05:00

I love a good engagement story...

I love hearing how people are brought together either by mutual friends, random "perfect" events taking place, twin brothers who fall in love with sisters (yes, that has happened), being friends already for many years, or whatever the reason. It's nice to hear people's "LOVE STORIES," as I call them. What girl doesn't like to hear them? We all picture it in our heads "oooo'ing" and "awwwww'ing" and smiling as big as can be, just knowing that both of those people are so in love.

What's even better is that everyone has a different one to tell, and ALL are so special!

I love Greg & Charis's "love story"!

I love how they met at church and knew right away that they liked each other, those "like" feelings turned into "more", those "more" feelings turned into "Will You Marry Me?" feelings, and those "Will You Marry Me?" feelings have now turned into "I DO!" feelings. The best thing yet is that their story is not yet over... it's only just beginning!

It was an honor to be a part of Greg & Charis's wedding. They were married at their home church, Oakland Hills Community Church, and what a beautiful church it is. From the outside to the inside to the people, you can tell it was filled with TONS of family and friends with all the warm hugs and kind words they received. Both Greg & Charis are two of the sweetest, most kind, and considerate people, so it was no surprise they have so much love and supporters there to witness their special day! Especially when it came to their dessert reception, friends and family all pitched in and brought lots of great snacks and treats... SOOO yummy!!!

I love how great they are together! They are so cute and just wanted to hold each other so close, which helped a lot when we went outside for a few "outdoor"photos. It was snowing a bit, so they did not mind what so ever. I love how great of spirits they had when it came to stepping outdoors for a few, despite the snow and the cold. Not only were they troopers and adorable and sweet and perfect together, but GREAT news... last time we shot at wedding at this exact location, we pulled up, I grabbed my bags and out came one of my most expensive lens's, BUT not this time! Greg and Charis are my lucky charm!

We had so much fun and felt so loved and one of the guests, it was such a great way to end our 2010 wedding season!

A HUGE Congratulations and Thank you to you guys... we are SOOOO happy for you two and hope Hawaii was amazing and WARM! Plus, we loved being a part of your special day!

Check out a few of our favorites and a slideshow with more from their day...

Dress: David's Bridal
Flowers: TBA
Cake: TBA
Desserts: Friends & Family

Charis has such natural beauty, I love how elegant she looked... so stunning!!!

I LOVE HER GIRLS... all of them were so nice and SOOOO beautiful!

Check out that handsome groom... I love that he wore a bow tie, not many guys wear them anymore and it's so classy!

Guys + Greg = AWESOME BUNCH...

Adorable...

All I have to say is this photo is probably one of my favorites of all time... it's so intimate and so romantic...

Entering their party with a bang...

Haha... RUTHLESS... P.S. Great photo Todd... I can't take credit since I'm in the background... haha!

I love a good exit... especially with sparklers...

Check out a slideshow with more from their special day...

Snowcapade 2011

2011-02-02T10:49:00.004-05:00

I guess the weather report was "somewhat" true when it said it was going to snow... however, I don't see that HUGE massive foot of snow they were predicting.

Oh well... it was kind of fun to get all excited about this huge SNOWCAPADE, as I have been calling it. Haha!

I do have to voice one complaint, by saying that although the snow is gorgeous and just so fresh and clean looking, it is also EXTREMELY bright and the brightness of the white fluff has kept me awake since 4am on. So now, this SNOWCAPADE has left me with the BIGGEST headache known to man! But I guess in a way, it can be a good thing because now I have an excuse to lay down on the couch and take a nap as the snow keeps falling, I'm banned from driving on the roads outside, AND Todd is working from home today, so I can at least have a snuggle buddy for a bit. The little things in life that get us excited huh?!

I do have the greatest husband as he spent over an hour snow blowing our driveway, along with our neighbors sidewalks... Thank God for his kind and HUGE heart! What would I do without him???

And get ready for TOMORROW as we wrap up our 2010 wedding season...

Plus, GET READY as we will be beginning our 2nd Annual Photo Contests from sessions from 2010 this month... It's going to be a little different this year with a few 'secret' categories, but just a "hint, hint" you'll want to become a fan of us on facebook so sign in or sign up, find us, and "like" us! You'll be glad you did!!!

Andrew & Meaghan :: Wedding

2011-01-31T13:48:00.008-05:00

I can't believe I'm saying this, but this year is going to be my 10 year high school reunion... Oh my gosh!!!

Even though I'm not going to be going to it, I'm a bit frazzled on where has the time gone? It's weird how the days seem to pass, and those days turn into years, then before you know it, it has been 10 years... and the next will be 20... oh wow, I'm going to stop right there. I'm feeling just a tad bit too old right now and there is definitely no need for that!

One thing I am grateful for is the opportunity to still visit where I used to live and sometimes relive those high school moments in my mind when I'm there. I'm sure Todd has heard stories from those high school days way too much when we are in Indiana, since we pass certain things that remind me of something or the fact that my brother-in-law is a principal at my old jr. high school and we go and visit him sometimes while we are there.

One thing that I was able to do recently was show Todd around the good old city of Indianapolis. We were contacted a while back from someone I had went to high school with and she was getting married in Indianapolis. I was so excited about this because it's always fun to make the trip down to Indiana to visit family, but to actually be able to shoot in a new environment other than Detroit is always a plus!

Andrew and Meaghan were married down in Indianapolis at Union Station, which was so nice and so beautiful! It actually brought back memories from when I was a kid, other than the fact that it did not look that way when I was young. I don't remember Union Station looking so nice or being a venue for weddings, but it was really cool to see. I thought it was just an old train station, but they totally transformed it into some place that now has some great use and is absolutely stunning.

Andrew and Meaghan opted for a first look, which gave us a lot of time to enjoy the area along with help calming down some nerves of theirs. Andrew is one of those guys who loves to make people laugh, and he did not disappoint when it came to helping to add a TON of comedy to their day. It was fun to watch them interact because Meaghan is so calm and he's so silly, but they have so much fun together, and you can tell how much they love and care for each other. He is her king and she is his queen! Love that! It was nice to see some familiar faces from high school along with my sister and niece were in attendance, that was awesome! My niece totally stole the dance floor, running around like a crazy person! What a fun night! Both Todd and I had an amazing time...

Congratulations you two... we are so happy for you and were so honored to be a part of such a beautiful day! We wish you nothing but the best!!!!

Check out some of our favorites and a slideshow with more from their day...

Wedding Planner: Circle City Planners
Venue: Crowne Plaza at Union Station
Video: IndyVisual
Cake: A Slice of Heaven Cakery

Check out these cute shoes Meaghan wore... LOVE THEM!

Her dress was absolutely gorgeous and it was fun to watch all her girls help get her ready for her to see her man...

Andrew & Meaghan opted for a first look, which was so sweet!!!

We had so much fun taking photos around Indy...

Behind them is where the Colts play... Go Colts... and Go Andrew... KISS HER!!!

LOVE it!!!

I love how sweet both of them are...

Meaghan is absolutely stunning...

Her girls were A-MAZING!

Andrew with his comedy skills...

And all of his guys were so fun, which is a given considering how Andrew is...

And they all got cool cufflinks from Andrew from a movie during the year they were born... so creative and so cool!!!

Their ceremony was so beautiful... (this room was later transformed into their reception... A-MAZING!

And the recessional... GOTTA LOVE THESE MOMENTS...

I had to post this, of course, my niece being her crazy little self... haha!

Check out their slideshow with more from their beautiful day...

** One more wedding of 2010 will be up tomorrow- sorry!***

Tony & Sandy :: Wedding

2011-01-28T10:40:00.003-05:00

I really think that Detroit has quite a few bad reps. I agree with some of them, but some I think are just plain silly.

I have to say that I absolutely LOVE Detroit churches. They are some of the most beautiful places I have ever been to, and some are simply "one-of-a-kind" and a bit like "hidden gems", which is something us photographers die for.

I always get excited when it comes to have weddings Downtown Detroit because there are always tons of places to take photos at and since I'm an Indiana girl and I'm not super familiar with everything there is downtown, it usually is an experience for me as well. WIN-WIN!

One of those couples that decided to have their wedding downtown this past October was Tony & Sandy. Tony and Sandy were married at Old St. Mary's Church, which I have to say was the most beautiful church I have ever been to. It looked as though this place could be in the movies... seriously, just stunning!!! I was so excited to shoot their wedding, not only because it was downtown, but because both Tony and Sandy are super, super sweet people.

After their ceremony, we were able to travel around a bit on their trolley, yes a trolly, which was so cute! But we made our way from Tiger Stadium, over to Belle Isle, and then onto their reception site, Grosse Point War Memorial, which is so beautiful! I loved all the locations we stopped at, the weather was perfect, couple was perfect, bridal party was perfect... it was awesome! Sandy mentioned to me that the theme of her wedding was a Harvest Moon, and there was suppose to be a full moon out that night, but the clouds were also out and did not want to show us the moon. Boo! But everything else was great!

Todd and I had so much fun and the whole day was so great!

Congrads you guys... we wish you nothing but the best and we hope Chicago isn't too cold this time of year, but I'm sure that's not likely! ;)

Check out some of my favorites and a slideshow with more from their day...

Dress: Wedding Belles (Barrington, IL)
Flowers: Sarah Reaume (email me for contact details)
Cake: Josef's European Pastry Shop
DJ: Chester D. Brown (email for contact details)
Trolly: Trolley Limo Services
Video: Ikonic Images (HIGHLY recommend!)
Photo Booth: Freeze Frame Foto Booth

Oh wow... Sandy was breathtaking...

Her girls were so sweet and fun...

Tony was so handsome... and so calm!

Guys were awesome...

Umm... INCREDIBLE!

And of course, the recessional...

LOVE the jumping for joy...

The view was so sweet...

This is why people get married in October... the colors everywhere are so gorgeous!

Rarrr...

One of my absolute favorites from the day...

Check out their slideshow with many more of their day...

AJ & Abby :: Wedding

2011-01-27T13:16:00.003-05:00

So October was a great month...

It was absolutely beautiful out, along with lots of beautiful weddings, along with lots of beautiful couples... I have to say that I think a lot of couples are wanting those fall months more than the summer ones because of all the gorgeousness there is that comes along with fall. I am a bit partial when it comes to fall because it is my favorite time of year! My only wish, is that it lasted a few months LONGER... who else agrees?

Well this last October, I had the opportunity to work with some amazing couples. One of those included AJ and Abby. I met Abby a few months before and we totally clicked. She and I were kind of like soul mates, or I guess you could say "Bride-Photographer-mates". Haha! We chatted so much as though we were old friends catching up. I loved it and I knew that their wedding was going to be extremely fun and they did not disappoint.

Being October, you never know what the weather is going to be like. I mean October 2009, it was so cold everyone had to wear their winter coats, but this past year it was outdoor wedding weather. I loved that AJ & Abby chose to have it outdoors, it was just gorgeous out. The wind did pick up during their ceremony, which added some comic relief when trying to light their candle, but it was great! I have to say that the buildings and grounds at Addison Oaks are one of my favorite places to shoot, it's so quaint there and it seems the sun shines perfectly with all the trees... just breath taking!

Abby is also a beautiful singer, and she uses her talents to make people happy. She surprised her new husband with a beautiful song she wrote during the reception. What a sweet wife she is!

Todd and I had so much fun and wish them both the best in life!

Congrads you two... we wish California was closer so we could hang out!

Check out some of my favorites along with a slideshow from their day...

Dress: David's Bridal
Venue: Addison Oaks
Flowers: Kroger (Floral Dept)
Cake: Cakes Our Specialty
DJ: Big Foot DJ's

Abby has this natural beauty that is just breathtaking...

LOVED all her girls... so beautiful and so sweet!

AJ was so handsome as well... and in such great spirits... I wonder why?!

LOVED all his guys... so fun!

The wind was blowing like crazy... love her vail in the wind though...

Recessionals are always my favorite...

LOVE this one...

Mmm...

Such a happy, sweet couple...

Ooo laaa laaa...

Here's their slideshow with more from their beautiful wedding...

Winter Blues, No More...

2011-01-25T18:21:00.003-05:00

Well... these "Winter Blues" have seriously got to go! I know I'm not alone when it comes to this, especially since it seems the snow may never end. But as January is starting to roll to a close, I feel there is hope that Spring will be here before we know it, which is SOOO very exciting I can barely sit in my chair right now...

I am now thinking that these "Winter Blues" can become Pink or Yellow, those are nice colors, right? I think so. I am choosing to fight away those blues, and try and make the most of it, even if it's so cold outside I can barely think straight, or so white outside I have to squint and sometimes lose a contact, yeah that's happened, I am now going to wake up and chose to be in a better, more Pink or Yellow mood... all I want to know, is who's coming with me?

"I will!"

Haha...

Stayed tuned this week for lots of posts as we finish up our 2010 weddings and are now getting rid of these blues, which means more posts!!! Yay!!!

Happy Tuesday!

Brad & Ashley :: Engagements

2011-01-13T11:21:00.003-05:00

Anyone else getting the Winter Blues???

Oh dear, I'm surely there... and it's BAD! All I want to do is sleep. It really needs to warm up SOON! Maybe the groundhog will give us some hope here in a few weeks. Fingers, toes, arms, legs, anything that can be crossed are crossed right now in hopes that it's a good revelation.

Anyways... Todd and I had some company in town over the weekend. My dad came up for his annual "Auto Show Trip". No offense, but I could totally do without seeing it every year! Ha! Is it just me or is it so similar every single year. It's like I can close my eyes and see exactly what each car display looks like. But oh well... it was fun to have some company to entertain or be entertained for the weekend. We definitely made our way around from going to the Auto Show, to going to see a Band Play out in Sterling Heights, to stopping by Somerset, a favorite of my dad's, and of course, hitting up good ol' Nino Salvaggio's, which us Indiana'ers love!

This is me dreaming BIG... I'm pretty sure that Rolls-Royce will only be seen in them!

But as I continue to catch up, I promise to get done with 2010 by the end of January. I'm going to have to step it up a bit, but I'll get there. I'm telling you... it's this winter that is dragging me down now. Haha!

I met up with Brad & Ashley a few months back, and what a beautiful couple they are. They were so sweet and it seems we have a few familiar faces in common, which added for some good conversations. Ashley was actually a bridesmaid from a previous wedding we had a few years back, plus she knows Todd and Brad and I had running in common so that was fun to chat about... too bad I HATE it now and dread the thought of running ever since that marathon a few years back, and it totally burnt me out. But both Brad & Ashley have so much love, beauty, good spirits, laughter, smiles, and just all around kind hearts, that I cannot WAIT for their wedding come June. Plus, it's up in Petosky, MI which is going to be even more beautiful!

Congratulations you two... we are so excited and thrilled to be a part of such a special time!

I'm not sure they can take a bad photo...

A little more serious... still nailed it!

Love all those colors...

Adorable...

Love these two...

What brave souls they are... it was a long fall down, but they were sports and I think it was worth it...

So in LOVE....