A music filled holiday

So in the continuation of bucket list checks, I decided to make it to JazzFest this year. I'm in love with New Orleans. The energy, the sense of renewal and complete mastery of masking all that they've had to deal with is what impresses me the most. It's a constant party in the spots that host it and the music is unending. I've experienced many new bands on my various adventures to the area and got to see some old classics. This year included one of my favorites, Cyndi Lauper. Yes, girls DO just want to have fun! An amazingly energetic show. I dance on the clouds and float all the way home...

Bun in the oven, blue or pink?

Meet the Chase family. Barbara, Sam and Claire. Waiting patiently to find out if its a boy or a girl. A little sister or brother? Claire is a precious little soul, so full of energy and what a wonderful helper. Its always interesting to see how the older sibling reacts to the soon to be younger. 'So where does the baby come from?' is always the most fun question for a parent to answer. I've heard quite a range of responses to that question. None of them wrong but not all of them based in fact. To tell or not to tell? Cross that bridge when you get to it. In the mean time, take the little kisses and keep them in your pocket where they can grow.

This family was a joy to photograph and hopefully the new little one will be healthy, happy and right on time.

is 2 years old still a baby?

My little niece Julianna has made it to her 2nd birthday. She's growing up so fast and my sister is grateful to have an in house photographer on staff. Precocious is a good start to a description of this little lady. Currently the only child, first grandbaby on one side and only little girl on the other... needless to say little miss J gets ample attention. Pink tutu courtesy of Aunt Candace. I'm allowed to spoil her, aren't I? She had an amazing day filled with family, fun and of course cake! Yes, she is double fisting. Ambidextrous currently, but we think she'll be a lefty. I've met a lot of really cute, amazing kids but this is the only one that truly has my heart. Happy Birthday Miss Julianna Marie!

Oh those cherry blossoms

Being from the DC area, I often took things for granted that most tourists crave. With free museums and a wealth of history at our daily disposal, you become accustomed to always having the chance to go. I lived in the DC area for close to 13 years and once I finally moved away decided it was time to make it to the Cherry Blossom Festival. Its really quite an amazing week of events. Music and merriment and fantastic weather, oh and the pretty flowers a plenty. Here are a few of my favorite stolen moments.

career day

When I was hired to shoot Career Day for Berry Elementary, I have to admit I was a little nervous. My goal was to be background and just document the day for the school to use for the paper, yearbook, etc. I've shot weddings and other events where staying in the background and just being a soft click and a shadow are easy to accomplish. In a room full of curious little kids, this is a different equation all together. you cant get them to ignore the camera, which is usually what makes my job so great. Not wanting to be a distraction to the career presenters was a big challenge. Try as I might, the kids were intrigued by the photographer and performed as such..mostly hams. A frustration for teachers but endless entertainment for me. What a fun day!

aussie adventure

In my avoidance of all things winter, i packed a bag (ok- an extra large suitcase) and fled to summer down under. The Kinks had it right when they sang 'No one hesitates at life or beats around the bush in Australia'. Life just seems easier. As life ticks by I'm slowly checking things off my bucket list, which is actually getting longer the more i explore the planet. New Years brought me to the harbour in Sydney... one of my favorite places in the world (so far). I watched the world renowned fireworks display and celebrated the new year with one of my best friends and favorite muse, Elisabeth. Realizing another year had passed before all our friends stateside had really started their day. We sat on the gorgeous beaches and ate really great food, explored the tremendous sites and played with the kangaroos. With our in between time, Elisabeth was gracious enough to let me take a few shots. Some of my favorites to date. Enjoy and Happy New Year!

Christmas 2010

The holidays are the perfect time to lose yourself with loved ones, to revile in the love and closeness that the family life can offer and take time off from the stresses of life just to sit and be merry. Oh and the presents! My family and I are fortunate to have a gift filled holiday. I have to say the most enjoyable part is watching the little fingers rip into the paper. I've never seen a paper box and tissue give anyone so much joy. Simple pleasures... that's little Miss Julianna.