hopefeathers

Merry Christmas!!!

2011-12-25T10:29:00.000-08:00

Though I am sure you are all enjoying some fabulously fun time with family and friends, I thought that I would take a second to wish you a very Merry Christmas from me and Bluejay and Baby Bird! Being pregnant at Christmas is so wonderful! It makes the real meaning of Christmas so much more real. I love that Jesus Christ was born a tiny baby; fully God AND fully man! I am thankful that he was born and lived a sinless life so that he would one day die on the cross at Calvary for that I can be forgiven of my sins! What a wonderful, miraculous plan our Lord had! Because of Jesus' life, death and resurrection, we can have eternal life! I am reminded of this truth every time I feel our little baby kick inside me and I think about Jesus kicking inside Mary all those years ago. Wow!

Merry Christmas to ALL!!!

Have a Holly, Johnson Christmas - 2011

2011-12-15T19:25:00.000-08:00

As soon as it snows each December, I drag Bluejay out into the blistering MN cold to take Christmas photos with me (2010, 2009). This year it snowed a few inches in early Dec. It was pretty, but the weather quickly warmed up and the snow began to look dingy and dirty as it melted. I figured, since we had a 18' blizzard last December, that we would have another chance at a white Christmas, meaning snowy Christmas photos. I couldn't have been more wrong. It's been so warm and rainy the past week that some of the grass has begun to get green once again! So here we are, a week before Christmas, and it's brown and ugly outside. We made the best of it and got inspired by a cute vintage Christmas Tree sign at a nursery by our place. Then we found a scrawny Charley Brown-like pitifully small tree that we decorated. Sometimes when things don't go exactly how you plan, they end up even more fun! Honestly, it doesn't matter if the weather is lovely and snowy or not. I love these photos because they are the memories of our last Christmas of just Bluejay and me before Baby Bird comes!

On Saturday we leave for Christmas in Ca. I originally thought it would be strange to have Christmas without snow, but now I'm thinking that we may see more snow on the mountains on the horizon at my parents home in Yucaipa, Ca than we ever would have here! Plus it will be lovely to "waddle" my preggo self around without wearing a million layers and trying not to slip on ice.

Talk about windchill! It was freezing!

Baby Bird's first Christmas ornament!

Cousins

2011-11-28T08:33:00.000-08:00

I have shot photos of Dylan a few times now. He's such a sweet little guy. So I was excited to shoot some holiday photos of him and his cousins. While it's difficult to shoot photos of four children under the age of five, we had a lot of fun just playing and being silly together. If seeing pictures of cute kiddos in front of a Christmas tree doesn't get you in the holiday spirit, you may be a Grinch and my suggestion is to drink a gingerbread latte, listen to some Bing Crosby Christmas Music, and then come back to see these photos! It will be worth it!

Baby Adelaide

2011-11-26T08:24:00.000-08:00

This was the first newborn session I have done since Bluejay and I found out we're expecting! So, it's an understatement to say I was excited for this shoot. Adelaide is so tiny and sweet and soft and warm. Everything a newborn should be! Her big brother, Sheppard, was so very proud to show me "his baby" when I got to their house. Baby Addie was really alert and awake at first, so we got some fun photos with her eyes open. After a quick snack, she was as sleepy as can be and put up with all our hats and bows and different positions. She was wonderful! I quickly fell in love with her. I really can't say how excited I am for our own baby to come! He/she will be the most photographed kid ever! For now, enjoy these photos of a blissfully sleeping adorable newborn. Congrats Cornell Family, she's quite the doll!

Happy Thanksgiving Surprise!

2011-11-25T10:23:00.000-08:00

There are so many things to be thankful for this time of year. If you've followed my blog for any amount of time, you would know that this season is leaps and bounds in front of any other season when it comes to being my favorite! I love everything about it: the first snow, the colorful decorations, the sparkling lights, the warm beverages and snuggles with loved ones!

This year, Bluejay and I have a special little something extra to be excited and thankful for. We're pregnant! I am 20 weeks along, meaning we're already half-way done! How did that happen so quickly! We were overjoyed this summer when we saw those two pink lines appear on the pregnancy test. Now we're joyously anticipating our Easter baby to come in April. We had our ultrasound last week and saw our little baby moving like crazy. Nothing prepared me for that swell of love in my heart. I can't wait to meet Baby Bird! We aren't going to find out the gender so we are ALL going to be surprised this spring.

Now, I don't want my photography blog to become a "mommy blog", but I'm sure I'll post pictures here and there. If you want to see more, I started a personal blog for family and friends who live far away. Since I LOVE all my clients and feel as though we are friends, even if we just met, please feel free to stop by and say hi- www.thebajas.blogspot.com.

The Dobak Family {ducklings}

2011-11-14T12:53:00.000-08:00

I shot Cory and Christa's wedding last month. They ended up booking me just before the wedding and so we didn't have time to schedule an engagement session. So, we ended up doing a family session last weekend instead. Their daughter Taylor is adorable! She is turning one this weekend so we wanted to make sure to get some photos of her, some family shots and a few of the newlyweds. It was so much fun to hang out and chat with this sweet family for the afternoon. It's that time of year when things start to slow down. It's getting chilly outside and everyone is preparing for the holidays. This means that instead of all of the hubbub of scheduling, editing, and packaging all while getting backed up, I feel like I get to treasure and enjoy every session as it comes. I love this time of year!

Heather & Jason {lovebirds}

2011-11-10T06:02:00.000-08:00

Apparently a common theme of autumns in MN is that the weather gets increasingly unpredictable. We had to reschedule this session a whopping FOUR times due to weather! Once, it was raining. Another time it was ridiculously windy. Another time we began to take photos, and we got rained out again! Ugh! When we finally got to take these photos, we were all excited just to be without rain! It was so fun to meet Heather and Jason (a couple times). Since they met going to school at the U of M and got engaged at Lake Harriet, it was obvious where we should do photos... both places! Jason proposed to Heather after enjoying ice-cream at the lake. Heather recalled that he ate his cone so quickly that he actually made her toss the rest of her cone away because he was so anxious to ask her to be his wife! Adorable! Congratulations on your engagement. It was really great to meet you two!

Cornell Family {ducklings}

2011-11-09T05:53:00.000-08:00

This family was so fun to photograph! We met on St. Anthony Main Street one day for photos and within the first five minutes, it began to ~~rain~~ POUR! We tried to make the most of it and take a few photos under a bridge, but I just didn't feel like I could give them the photos we both desired with weather that crummy. So we did a rain-check... literally. The next day we met was perfect! The sun was shining, it was remarkably warm, and we had a blast! Sheppard is almost two years old and also going to be a big brother next month! His little sister is due in December. We decided to do a family/maternity hybrid shoot. A little bit of everything. The first time we got together, Shep was a little shy, so they ended up bringing the most awesome prop for a two year old- BALLOONS! He came right out of his shell and loved to play with the colorful balloons. He also loved throwing rocks into the river and playing tag with mom and dad. They are going to have their hands full when their new baby girl comes! I am so excited to meet her!

Andy & Joanna {turtledoves}

2011-11-07T06:30:00.000-08:00

I couldn't have been more excited to shoot the wedding of such a dear friend! The wedding as a whole was absolutely gorgeous. Especially the breathtaking bride! It was a perfect Autumn Day for a wedding. Andy and Joanna, I am so thankful that I was able to be apart of such a special day for you two.I am even more thankful to call you both friends! Hope these first few weeks of marriage have been a blessing!

Shooting the ceremony in a dimly lit cathedral without permission to use a flash was a bit challenging, but I love the way they turned out!

Emily & Marcus {turtledoves}

2011-11-05T09:19:00.000-07:00

This wedding is one of my favorite weddings of the year! Which is pretty sweet because I had never met Emily or Marcus before their wedding. In fact, we'd only ever communicated via email. As soon as we walked into the room where Emily was getting ready, she screamed, hugged me and I knew it was going to be a fun day! Emily and Marcus are such an adorable couple. Their wedding day was full of all the sweet tender moments that you'd expect from a couple in love. And all of the laughter and joy as well. I loved being a part of their special day!

Emily had the most beautiful Vera Wang dress I've ever seen!

Heather & Jason {lovebirds}: Sneak Peek

2011-11-02T06:33:00.000-07:00

Cornell Family {ducklings}: Sneak Peek

2011-11-01T06:31:00.000-07:00

Christa & Cory {turtledoves}: Sneak Peek

2011-10-31T06:29:00.000-07:00

Kyrsten & Dan {turtledoves}

2011-10-26T06:29:00.000-07:00

Bruce & Collette {ducklings}

2011-10-25T05:21:00.000-07:00

A couple weekends ago I got to spend the morning playing with Bruce and Collette and their family. We went to a park and played around on an old train engine. They showed me some of their favorite toys and we also went to the playground. I love capturing families in their "natural habitat" as they interact and play like any normal day. These are memories that I'm sure they will cherish as their children grow up so quickly!

Angie & Ryan {lovebirds}

2011-10-24T05:13:00.000-07:00

When we were brainstorming their engagement session, Angie mentioned that she wanted something really "fall-like". Considering that she is a teacher, I knew that we had no other option than to shoot at Pine Tree Apple Orchard. I just keep picturing a framed photo of her and Ryan with the apples on her desk at school. Adorable! I think we definitely got the fall vibe she was hoping for. Congrats on your engagement, Angie and Ryan! I can't wait to shoot your wedding next summer! Also, thanks for being willing to break a couple rules and hop over roped off areas for fun photos! I love when clients trust me.

Gavin {ducklings}

2011-10-22T05:30:00.000-07:00

Oh Gavin. He's such a cute little boy! He has left his "baby phase" behind, and is now a full fledged BOY! It has been really fun to watch Gavin grow and grow the past year! And true to his "boy-ness", his favorite parts of the session were playing with balls, throwing rocks into the river, carrying around sticks, and crashing his toy airplane. Totally different than all the girl babies my friends have... different in a fun way! I loved it!

Dylan {ducklings}

2011-10-20T17:30:00.000-07:00

Remember Baby Dylan? With the chubby cheeks? Well, when I met up with his family for his six month photos session, I was definitely not greeted with a lack of adorable baby cheeks! He's the type of baby that you just want to hug and squeeze and kiss his cheeks! Unfortunately, we had work to do so I refrained. But the photos turned out so cute, it's worth the trade off. Dylan is quite the little charmer!

Autumn Leaves Outside my Window

2011-10-19T13:13:00.000-07:00

Cornell Family {ducklings}

2011-10-14T13:10:00.000-07:00

Last week, I met the Cornell Family for some family photos and some maternity shots of their little one that's coming soon. A mere 10 minutes into our session, ominous black clouds appeared and began to dump raindrops! We decided that we'd have to finish the photos another day. So here is a sneak peek to part one of the Cornell Family photos! We're keeping fingers crossed that we have better weather next time!

Bruce & Collette {ducklings}: Sneak Peek

2011-10-14T09:21:00.000-07:00

Andy & Joanna {turtledoves}: Sneak Peek

2011-10-10T08:29:00.000-07:00

Gavin {ducklings}: Sneak Peek

2011-10-06T05:36:00.000-07:00

Angie & Ryan {lovebirds}: Sneak Peek

2011-10-04T06:47:00.000-07:00

Emily & Marcus {turtledoves}: Sneak Peek

2011-10-03T08:23:00.000-07:00

Dylan {ducklings}: Sneak Peek

2011-09-29T09:00:00.000-07:00

Kyrsten & Dan {turtledoves}: Sneak Peek

2011-09-27T18:13:00.000-07:00

Finley {ducklings}

2011-09-23T09:11:00.000-07:00

I have had the lovely pleasure of watching Finley grow up this past year. From this tiny little peanut, to this smiley baby, and now this toddling giggling one year old girl! We had the most wonderful weather last weekend, so it made perfect sense to shoot Finley's one year old photos in their back yard. Finley's mom had some vintage toys from her childhood that we had to incorporate in the session like the piano and radio flyer wagon. We even had Finley's best friend join us for a few photos. But, canine best friends aren't always the most calm around new people so we only got a couple shots. It has been so fun to watch Finley grow up and change throughout this year. I love her feisty personality! Mom and Dad, you will have your hands full someday, if you don't already!

I love that her tongue is sticking out in the right photo. She looks like she's intently reading that mini book!

Best Friends!

Apparently, Byerly's will give you a free cake for your first birthday! How cool is that? So, of course we had to let Finley devour her first pink birthday cake! I think she enjoyed it :)

This is Finley showing off one of her new "tricks". She loves to clap and wave, but also to do "Monster Baby" where she flexes her tiny muscles and says "grrrr". It is pretty adorable!

Brook & Kevin {turtledoves}

2011-09-21T08:47:00.000-07:00

I had been looking forward to Brook & Kevin's wedding all year! Especially after we did their engagement photos. They literally smiled and laughed the entire time! I love happy couples. Plus, I knew that their wedding would be full of all the anthropologie-esqu details I adore. Brook is crafty like that. I also was awaiting the exciting news of where they were headed for their honeymoon. Kevin was planning a secret honeymoon for the two of them. All he told her was that she needed a passport, and to pack for warm weather. Brook mentioned at the engagement session that she kept trying to figure out where they were going. Her "hunch" was Greece. Well, the morning of their wedding, Kevin announced that they were going to go to Spain! This was the exciting moment Brook was waiting for. Then, poor Kevin had to tell her that they WERE going to go to Spain, BUT because of Hurricane Irene, their flight from NYC to Spain was cancelled! Talk about a HIGH and then a low. But she took it in stride. I'm possitive that they enjoyed their honeymoon in a cottage in Michigan simply because they were together and enjoying their new marriage. These two certainly don't need a romantic location to set the mood.

Brook and Kevin, I was so honored to be a part of your day! It was lovely and so much fun. I hope married life is just as sweet as you hoped. Love ya! God bless :)

Kevin wrote Brook a little card for her to read before they saw each other. I don't know what it said, but everyone had tears in their eyes as we watched her read it.

For some reason, all the groomsmen had trouble with their suspenders. Kevin went around and helped all the guys figure them out haha.

First look. So sweetly emotional.

My sister, Stacey, helps me shoot every wedding. Not only that, but she is also a very talented Graphic Designer. She recently started a business called Plaid Poppy Designs. She worked with Brook to create the most adorable wedding invitations and programs ever! She is super talented! Seriously, if you need someone to design your wedding invitations, look Plaid Poppy Designs up!

Brook's Dad surprised her and everyone else by "changing" the father/daughter dance song to something more upbeat. They he danced around his daughter as she died with laughter. Then the DJ changed the song back to what was originally planned. It was so funny.

Lets just say, of all the wedding dances I've photographed. This was the most fun! Partially because I knew so many of the guests, but mostly because everyone was having a blast and dancing up a storm!

Sam & Jenna {turtledoves}

2011-09-20T08:47:00.000-07:00

Last fall, I mentioned to a friend how much I would LOVE to photograph an Indian wedding! I just love the bright colors! She said that one of her good friends was getting married... and he was Indian! So when I received an email from Sam and Jenna, I was thrilled! I have loved getting to know them these past couple months. Jenna is so sweet and kind. She is the type of girl who would drop anything to comfort a friend. Sam is fun loving and spontaneous. He had us "break in" to one of his old college buildings (he actually still had the key) so that we could take engagement photos on the roof! He's a rebel. It was awesome! I knew their wedding was going to be lovely, but I had no idea how much fun we'd have! Take a look...

Their first look was so sweet and emotional. Even I teared up a bit!

This was one fun bridal party! I mean, how fantastic to the bridesmaids look in their turquoise sari's? And the flower girl and ring bearer? So adorable!!!
(Proof to follow).

As a unique way to introduce the bride & groom to the reception, the bridal party performed a dance reenacting the couple's love story. Jenna's sister played her, and Sam's brother played him. It was like watching a Bollywood movie! It couldn't have been more perfect!

Andy & Joanna {lovebirds}

2011-09-15T06:54:00.000-07:00

I've known Joanna for years and years. We went to the same High School and Youth Group. Her older brother was my Drum Major in my High School marching band. Yes. I was a dork. I played the clarinet. In marching band. I marched. While playing the clarinet. We played in a parade at the State Fair. But I quit after that first summer. Marching Band costumes are hot! (And ugly). The End. Back to Joanna and Andy. I remember the time Joanna and I were having breakfast with some girl friends and she casually mentioned the guy she was dating. We were so excited! I couldn't wait to meet him! Andy is perfect for Joanna. They are both so passionate about the world and fun-loving. He makes her laugh constantly. And they both have the cutest smiles with matching dimples! If any of you have met my Bluejay, you would understand why I'm such a big fan of dimples! You could hide a nickle in his.

Jo and Andy! Only a few more weeks and you'll be husband and wife! Yay! Then we can do married double dates! I'm so excited for you! Love ya :)

I'm pretty sure this is when I said something shocking. It was funny to capture her reaction haha.

Finley {ducklings}: Sneak Peek

2011-09-12T11:14:00.000-07:00

Kyrsten & Dan {lovebirds}

2011-09-10T14:37:00.000-07:00

Kyrsten was my roomie for the summer on year when we lived in South Carolina. It was awesome. The late night chats, the dance parties, waitressing at Cracker Barrel, the leg brace (Kyrsten, not me). Such fond memories. When Kyrsten started dating Dan, I remember I wanted to make sure he was good enough for my friend! I remember having dinner at Buffalo Wild Wings and then going over to Dan's house to meet him. All I remember was that they talked about college and professional football and flirted. While I didn't understand any of the foolball lingo, I observed how her eyes lit up when he talked to her and the smile on his face when she laughed. It was adorable! Now, years later, I am so excited to be shooting their wedding in just a couple weeks! Love you guys! Congrats, Kyrsten and Dan!

Dan even "serenaded" a song to Kyrsten!

Mid way through our session, they mentioned that they hadn't eaten dinner yet so they got hot dogs from the take out window from this adorable 1950s style diner. I LOVE when clients are this casual about engagement photos! It really is all about the couple and their personalities and grabbing a hotdog totally fits theirs!

Santa Cruz, Ca

2011-09-06T18:54:00.000-07:00

Last month Bluejay and I went to CA to visit my parents. My sister, Stacey had just returned from a summer in the Middle East, so we had several Starbucks dates to catch up and hear all about the trip!

We got to meet up with one of Stacey's best friends who recently move from MN to CA. We went to The Grove where we actually ran into Ruppert Grint several times. So cool!

Me, Stacey and my cousin, Julie, at our favorite cafe in Santa Cruz! It has the best view!

My mom and grandma are so adorable!

Bluejay and I spent our third anniversary in California. While we got to have a fun getaway in Palm Springs a few days later, we celebrated the evening of our anniversary with family at one of my favorite places in Northern California. The Stanford Theatre! Plus, they were showing two of my favorite movies! Roman Holiday and Sabrina! It was wonderful.

David & Christy {turtledoves}: Sneak Peek

2011-09-06T07:48:00.000-07:00

Dan & Chelsea {turtledoves}: Sneak Peek

2011-09-05T12:48:00.000-07:00

Andy & Joanna {lovebirds}: Sneak Peek

2011-09-01T05:13:00.000-07:00

Brook & Kevin {turtledoves}: Sneak Peek

2011-08-31T08:33:00.000-07:00

Sam & Jenna {turtledoves}: Sneak Peek

2011-08-30T08:41:00.000-07:00

Sam & Jenna {lovebirds}

2011-08-29T12:21:00.000-07:00

David & Christy {lovebirds}

2011-08-25T10:43:00.000-07:00

David and Christy fell in love in high school. Though the next several year brought ups and downs, these high school sweethearts are tying the knot next weekend! I've known David's older brother for a few years now, so it's really fun to see his younger brother get hitched. In fact, Bluejay hung out with David a lot when David was a Freshman and Sophomore in college. It is such a pleasure to be able to document the love story of friends!

Congratulations David and Christy! It was so sweet to watch you two self-proclaimed "awkward introverts" come alive and see your love shine through each and every photograph! I hope you two had as much fun as I did during our session. Your wedding is going to be such a fun and special day! Can't wait!!!

Brook & Kevin {lovebirds}

2011-08-15T08:32:00.000-07:00

Brook and Kevin are adorable. When we shot their engagement session at a local Dunn Bros coffee shop, it felt more like we were old friends catching up and hanging out rather than what it really was, me following them around with a camera in front of my face. Even though it was one of the ~~hottest~~ HOTTEST days in MN all summer, Brook and Kevin snuggled up for some really sweet shots. The location was perfect, the couple was adorable, and the lighting was magical. It is honestly one of my favorite engagement sessions!

Congrats Brook and Kevin! I can't wait for your wedding in just a couple weeks! Enjoy your final days of singleness as you prepare for the rest of your life!

3 year honeymoon!

2011-08-08T08:11:00.000-07:00

My beloved is mine, and I am his. Song of Solomon 2:16

Bluejay and I have been married for three years now! How did that happen? Where did the time go? And yet, in the same sense, it's only been three years? I feel like I've known and loved him forever! *swoon*

We are excited to spend our "third honeymoon" in CA. Instead of calling them anniversaries, Bluejay and I call them honeymoons because we try to do something fun and go somewhere new each time. For our wedding honeymoon we went to Playa del Carmen, Mexico. It was magical. For our first honeymoon we went camping in Northern Mn. It rained the entire time and was soggy. But, we did spend loads of quality time playing cards in a coffee shop in Duluth, MN. For our second honeymoon we went kayaking on a lake in the cities and then to our favorite Spanish restaurant. We love paella! This year, we found a groupon to stay at a swanky hotel in Palm Springs, CA. It will be a fun excuse to get all dressed up and flirt!

Before we left MN, I found the tiniest patch of black-eyed susans by the library. Of course I told Bluejay that I was going to drag him out there for a couple photos at some point. It's been a while since I've taken pics of the two of us. So this is our third honeymoon session. At the last second, I grabbed the Palm Springs postcard off the fridge. Remember this post about the sweet old lady who received the postcard on accident? Her letter & the postcard remain on our fridge indefinitely.

I am so excited to wear my fun new dress, have a great night on the town, and enjoy the swanky hotel and pool with my love. I am so thankful that the Lord has given you to me, Bluejay! I can't wait to spend honeymoon after honeymoon with you! I love you!!!

Kevin & Brook {lovebirds}: Sneak Peek

2011-07-31T12:21:00.000-07:00

Sam & Jenna {lovebirds}: Sneak Peek

2011-07-29T11:03:00.000-07:00

David & Christy {lovebirds}: Sneak Peek

2011-07-27T16:26:00.000-07:00

Dan & Kyrsten {lovebirds}: Sneak Peek

2011-07-26T07:42:00.000-07:00

Summer Drive-In

2011-07-19T10:39:00.000-07:00

One of our favorite summer dates is to go to the Drive-In Movies. It doesn't really matter all that much which movies are playing, it's all about the fun summer memories! We love to grab coffee beforehand because the caffeine helps us stay awake for three movies! Especially since the first doesn't begin until after sunset, 9pm! Last week it was so hot that we went to Starbucks a few hours early just to enjoy the Iced drinks, Air Conditioning, and our books!

This particular night, it stormed like crazy all night! We watched the movies from the safety of our car in between wiper blade swipes. The storm was so close that the lightening and thunder hit simultaneously. The wind shook our car. And the power went out for several minutes. In the end, we loved our summer date!

Manatee Springs State Park, FL

2011-07-15T06:00:00.000-07:00

Bluejay grew up spending a few weeks each summer in Florida visiting his grandparents. It was tradition that they also spend a few days in Manatee Springs State Park. Bluejay chatted the whole drive up there about the crystal clear water, the refreshing cool temperature, and the memories he had at that fun place. He was so right! Manatee Springs is a fresh water spring that stays 72 degrees year round. Because of this, manatees swim up the river to enjoy the "warm" water in the winter! In the summer, it feels quite cool! Bluejay teased me repeatedly about my reluctance to take that first plunge every time we went to swim. At the bottom of the steps, it is about 4 feet deep. Then there is a cliff drop off that goes down to 35 feet deep! But the water is so clear, you can easily see all the way to the bottom! Bluejay and I enjoyed swimming and snorkeling for hours! There was also an elevated wooden walkway that zig-zagged along the Cypress trees and Cypress knees (the Cypress root that pops up through the water). It was gorgeous! Especially when the sun was setting and it illuminated the Spanish Moss that clung to the trees. While the trail and the spring were amazing, Bluejay and I decided that we are not "southern campers". I grew up camping with my family for two weeks every summer and LOVED it! We always camped in the mountains of the southwest or in the northern states. Bluejay hadn't been tent camping more that a few times before we got married. Needless to say, we were not prepared for the HEAT and HUMIDITY of camping in Florida! It simply doesn't cool down. Even after the sun sets! Plus, the cicada bugs were so loud! National Geographic calls them some of the loudest insects. I think that's an understatement! Our ears were ringing for hours after the sun came up and quieted them down. We didn't get much rest, which made driving several hours the next day a bit less enjoyable. But, with images like these, I would GLADLY return to Manatee Springs! Especially if I was equipped with ear plugs and a portable AC unit!

The rock ledge at the bottom of the stairs are actually 4 feet under water! And the darker blue beyond is 35 feet deep! So clear!

These are called Cypress Knees. It's the root system for a Cypress Tree. So cool!

I love the light shining through the Spanish Moss! So quintessentially Southern!

Josh & Brittany {turtledoves}

2011-07-14T05:48:00.000-07:00

Josh and I grew up going to the same church. Since he and my little sister are the same age, I believe that I have known him since he was in elementary school! It's crazy to think that now he is a husband to dear, sweet Brittany! I feel so old! It was such a pleasure to shoot a wedding at my old church. The memories flooded over me the second we walked in the doors. Stacey and I loved seeing familiar faces of our parents' friends who came as guests. It was a beautiful summer wedding. Even though it was June, it was probably the first "summery" feeling day of the summer we have had in MN. Perfect!

Josh and Brittany. Thanks for including me in your special day. It was so lovely to watch you guys interact throughout the day and look at each other with such deep love in your eyes! Congrats on your marriage! God Bless!

St. Petersburg, FL

2011-07-13T06:22:00.000-07:00

Bluejay and I left South Carolina on his Birthday (June 29th... Happy Birthday, love!). We drove down to Florida to spend some time with his grandparents and aunt and cousins. It was really fun. Since it was sunny with blue skies nearly the entire time we were in Myrtle Beach, the rainy thunderstorms in Florida each night were a nice treat. Especially since the lightning was spectacular! One of my favorite summer activities is to sit and watch a storm roll in. Especially if I have my camera and tripod on hand. So when we saw lightening in the distance, Bluejay was sweet enough to pull over into a state park so that we could hold hands while we sat and took photos of the lightning from the storm headed our way. It was magical.

Myrtle Beach, SC

2011-07-11T06:20:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned before, there is quite a difference between west and east coast beaches. I said this to several students who have never been to a Californian beach (poor girls!) and they asked me what was so different. The only thing I could think to say was that South Carolinian beaches were so... "southern-y". Real scientific, I know. So I decided to make a list. Let me preface this by saying that I don't like either coast better or worse. They are just uniquely different. How's that for a people-pleaser? Everyone happy?

This is what happened every time I brought out my camera. South Carolina is literally the most humid place I have ever been. It takes about 15 minutes for my lens to clear up before I can take a single picture.

The condos along the beach are all brightly painted, on stilts, have hurricane shutters on the windows, and have plaques that proudly display the condo's quirky name "Margarita Cove" or "The Beachcomber".

The Beach side of the condos back up the the beautiful protected dunes. This is very different from the immaculately manicured boardwalks and beaches of California. The pro is that it's rustically beautiful. The con is that there is no way to rollerblade, bike or long-board along the beach unless you go out to the street without an ocean view.

You don't see signs for a hurricane evacuation route in California either!

In order to cross over the beach dunes without harming them, there are the old wooden walkways and bridges. This is one of my favorite things! I could have walked along the beach for less than a mile and found enough of these distinct walkways to have it's own blog post. I wish I had! I guess there's always next summer!

I wish I could say this is a joke, but the primary form of transportation in Myrtle Beach is a golf cart! Think Bobby Cobb from Cougar Town. This is funny to note because it seems like along the Californian coast, everyone is there to show off. Whether that be their modern house or fancy ride. While there are places in South Carolina that have more class, in Myrtle Beach tourists and locals alike drive golf carts and have mobile homes in trailer parks less a block from the Ocean! We have students at our Project from Ireland, Scotland and India and I had to laugh at the thought that Myrtle Beach (or the dirty Myrtle as we affectionately call it) is their one view of American Culture. We had to tell them that not all Americans drive golf carts, live in the swim suits and shop at Walmart for everything.

Every fruit stand along the side of the road offered Boiled Peanuts. I have heard nothing but rave reviews of these nuts, but alas, we kept forgetting to give them a try. I guess that's another thing to try next summer!

This is where I rented my first surfboard. It was super fun! If we ever end up living anywhere near the ocean, it will be a must have for me. I'd love to get better at it so I can get up more than a few times!

Jake & Sarah {turtledoves}

2011-07-01T12:26:00.000-07:00

This blog post is long overdue! I mean, Jake and Sarah have been newlyweds for over a month now! Shame on me! I guess the beach (and lack of internet) had been distracting me. Jake and Sarah got married at the St. James Hotel in Red Wing, Mn. It was a gorgeous spring afternoon. In spite of the rain clouds that threatened now and then. We walked around the quaint little town and found several sweet little churches and parks that made lovely backdrops for the photos. Sarah wore the most BEAUTIFUL Royal Blue Manolo Blahnik shoes I have ever seen. In fact, they are the first Manolo Blahniks I have ever seen in person! Sarah told me that the first thing she did when they got engaged was to find the shoes. After finding those royal blue beauties, it all came together! That's my kind of girl!

Congrats Jake and Sarah! I am so glad that we were able to be apart of your special day! It was a lovely wedding and you were a GORGEOUS Bride! Hope newlywed-ness is going great! Much love!

Staff Babies

2011-06-23T13:31:00.000-07:00

Down here at The Summer Training Project, we get to hang out and enjoy the other Staff in ways that we don't get to back in Mn. We go on double dates and play with their kids. It's really fun! In fact, there are eight little girls ages three and under here! That's a lot of pigtails, pink dresses, and pretending to be princesses. Little girls are so sweet. I am actually leading two college students in a photography internship this summer, so I thought it would be really fun to teach them what a kids portrait session looks like. So we took seven of the eight girls (poor Sophie wasn't feeling well) out to the beach for a mini session. Any photographer can tell you that photographing children can be quite the work-out. This was like running a 5k! The cutest and most entertaining 5k ever! The kiddos loved playing in the sand and salty waves. Not one of them was afraid of the ocean! Which must keep their mommies on edge with a watchful eye. I love that they all started off with the cutest little sundresses and as the session went on, their little personalities came out and they all somehow ended up dirty, soaking wet, and running around in their panties! So cute!

Annie and Maddox and best friends and live across the street from each other. So they are pretty much like sisters.

Callie playing in the sand. She's going to be a big sister this fall!

Baby Lucy is Annie's little sister.

This is Lillian. I'm jealous of her adorable red hair!

Lillian and Eleanor are such cute sisters!

Eleanor was all smiles!

Remember Evelyn? Here she is playing with Lillian!

Annie has the most beautiful long blond hair for being only 2 years old! She is also quite the free spirit and was the first of the girls to strip down to her panties. She was ecstatic to be "naked and playing in the water" which she told me repeatedly. So cute!

Aw! Sister love :)

Myrtle Beach, SC

2011-06-19T14:42:00.000-07:00

As promised, here are a few photos from the past couple weeks down south. I am realizing the many differences between East and West Coast beach. But that is another blog, for another time. For now, here are some lovelies from Garden City, South Carolina. Enjoy!

Myrtle Beach, SC

2011-06-06T13:50:00.000-07:00

Hey y'all! Just a heads up that I will be in Myrtle Beach, SC for the month of June, and then road tripping/camping our way back up to MN the first week in July.

Why is this important? Well, it may take me longer than normal to get back to you as internet is spotty at best, and I'll be quite busy! That being said, I love pictures! So I'm sure I'll be around here and there for some beachy picture posts.

What are you doing? Well, as I've mentioned before, Bluejay and I are on staff with a college ministry called Campus Outreach. Each summer, we (and the other staff) take about 100 college students to Myrtle Beach for the Summer Training Project.

What is the Summer Training Project? The Summer Training Project (STP) is a summer opportunity where you are living, working, playing, and learning with other college students for nine weeks in Myrtle Beach. Each student works a full-time job during the day and participates in Bible studies, evangelistic outreaches, discipleship groups, ministry training, fellowship, and other activities during the week. This demanding, yet challenging schedule creates an ideal environment for students to grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ and develop ministry skills and leadership qualities. To sum up, it's pretty rad to live on the beach and talk with college students about Jesus! If you want to read more about it, you can check out this blog.

Any more questions? And because I never publish a post without pictures, here are a couple I took with my iPhone this morning!

Dan & Chelsea {lovebirds}

2011-06-03T10:17:00.000-07:00

I was going to wait to post this until Monday, but considering it's Chelsea's birthday, I thought I'd give her a photo blog birthday present! Happy Birthday Chelsea!!!

Chelsea and Dan are adorable! They are the perfect Minnesotan couple. Like seriously! They are both so sweet, so they have the whole "Mn nice" thing going for them. They are BEAUTIFUL! And they love to do all the fun Mn outdoorsy stuff like fishing, hiking, hunting. Chelsea even has a horse named Star who is gorgeous. That's every little girls dream!

I met Chelsea and Dan "out in the country" at the horse barn for their session. It was perfect! Chelsea cracked me up because she wore a beautiful dress and heels and was booking it as we walked out to the pasture, side-stepping manure and climbing through electric fences like it was her job! Meanwhile, as a true city girl, I wore WHITE LEATHER FLIP FLOPS and was tip-toeing around all the mud and horse poop. In my defense, I don't regularly come in contact with horse poop here in the cities! But it was more than worth it to get these photos.

Chelsea and Dan, you guys we so rad! I can't wait for your wedding this fall. Thanks for being so awesome and up for anything. It's great to have clients who trust me so completely! Much Love!

Dan & Chelsea {lovebirds}: Sneak Peek

2011-06-02T07:25:00.000-07:00

Jen & Jerod {storks}

2011-05-31T12:59:00.000-07:00

They met in college. In their very first college class. It wasn't love at first sight, as they were both already in relationships. But it was a fast friendship. Freshman year was full of study dates, hanging out, and developing an even closer friendship. When sophomore year arrived, they returned to school both single and interested in each other. Jerod worked up the nerve to ask Jen out, but before he got the courage, she surprised him by asking him out! And that was the end of it! They fell head over heals for each other. A few years later, they are happily married. Jen is a nurse and Jerod just finished his residency for Periodontology (congrats!). And most importantly, they are having a baby in just a few weeks (double congrats!!).

When I found out that Jen and Jerod live only a few blocks away from me, I knew that we had to shoot at my favorite local cafe. Java Train is a fun, funky, and kid friendly cafe. I especially love the rainbow umbrellas on the patio and the ice-cream cone graffiti on the side of the cafe! The owners of the cafe are incredibly awesome and even let us shoot a couple photos with their super sweet vintage camper! Love! Then we headed to Como Park for some sweet sunset photos. Jen's mom made the quilt that they are snuggling on. How fun to know that in just a few weeks, that quilt will be snuggling their new baby boy or girl! Jen and Jerod don't know what the gender of their baby is. It's nature's ultimate surprise!

Jen and Jerod, you guys were the perfect clients and you made this maternity session exactly what it should be: fun, exciting, and playful! You guys will be such rad parents! I can't wait to meet your baby girl or boy! Congrats!

I love that the we were able to get an itty-bitty-teeny-weeny-adorable cone!

We had to get their dog, Chopper, in on the fun! What an adorable puppy!

Sarah & Jake {turtledoves}: Sneak Peek

2011-05-30T06:02:00.000-07:00

Jen & Jerod {storks}: Sneak Peek

2011-05-24T07:04:00.000-07:00

Evelyn {ducklings}

2011-05-23T07:50:00.000-07:00

Evelyn is the daughter of our dear friends Eric and Holly. She is just so cute! Eric and Holly are also on staff with Campus Outreach and they are in our Married Couples small group. This means that every Sunday, we all get together, share a meal, and talk about how the Gospel works itself out in our marriages. It's a really sweet and sanctifying time. We love it! Evey is one of Bluejay's favorite kiddos. When she was smaller, he used to hold her in the air with her legs dangling and say, "run, run, run!" as she shrieked with laughter and wiggled her legs as if she were running. This totally makes sense because Holly was a really gifted track and cross country runner in college. It's in the genes!

I truly love this kiddo. I love how easy she smiles and laughs. I love her three teeth. I love her tiny baby hugs. I love when she blows kisses. She's just adorable! Evey had a blast during our session. She loved having a bit of freedom after being cooped up all winter. She explored the front and back yard of their house with utter glee! This totally made my job fun and easy! One of my favorite parts of these photos is that in 90% of them, the knees of her white tights are muddy and full of grass stains. She was so happy that she would laugh and run, and then fall and laugh. Then she'd get up and do it all over again! I'm smiling from the memory even as I type!

Holly and Eric- thanks for letting me capture some fun photos of Evey. Hope you like them! See you down in South Carolina in just a few days!!!

Rasp-baby & Blue-baby

2011-05-20T10:31:00.000-07:00

Bluejay used to live with 7 guys in a house nicknamed the Lodge. It usually smelled like he lived with 15 guys. But we were young and in love so I didn't care. I still went over. One day, Bluejay and I went for a bike ride on the trails near his house. Afterward, we had our favorite date- McDonalds $1 ice-cream and a Redbox movie. When I said we were young and in love, I forgot to mention POOR. We were poor, young, and in love. I suppose most of that is still true. Anyways, summer turned to fall and quickly to winter. Then we got engaged and married. One day, we decided to take another bike ride. We looked all over for my bike. It was no where to be found. We looked at the Lodge for my bike. It was gone. Sad day.

Fast forward three years. I found a pair of ~~cheap~~ really cheap cruisers on Amazon. They had all my bicycle non-negotiables: cute color, basket, splash guard, cup holder, and white walled tires. Yep, they were perfect. And while my friend, Adina, teased me about how they must be fake or miniature based on the price, they arrived in the mail full sized! According to Amazon, the colors of the bikes are raspberry and blueberry. We've lovingly nicknamed them "Rasp-baby" and "Blue-baby" because of how my adorable niece, Eliot, used to pronounce raspberry and blueberry. We've had so much fun riding around town. Especially now that its FINALLY spring! We love riding to the Library to borrow a book and then to our favorite cafe to sit at the outdoor patio and read. We've even stopped by the Farmer's Market with our bikes. So fun! The only problem is that even with the seat as low as possible, I can't even come close to touching the ground. I have to hop off the seat every time we stop. Darn you short legs!

David & Michelle {turtledoves}: Sneak Peek

2011-05-17T13:43:00.000-07:00

Evelyn {ducklings}: Sneak Peek

2011-05-16T08:20:00.000-07:00

I Love My Mommy

2011-05-09T20:29:00.000-07:00

I've been a bit MIA lately when it comes to blogging. In my excuse, my mommy is in town this week! Just in time for Mother's Day! We've been enjoying lots of giggles and coffee dates (surprise, surprise). We also have been working a top secret project to surprise my Dad :) Basically, we've been having a blast! It was such a treat to be able to see my mom on Mother's Day- especially because I only see my mom a few times a year ever since my parents moved to Ca. Happy Mother's Day, Mom! I love you so much and have LOVED having you stay with us this week! Here are some photos from one of our favorite local coffee shop gems in Minneapolis- The Cake Eater Bakery.

Beth & Jared {turtledoves}: Sneak Peek

2011-04-26T11:31:00.000-07:00

Laura & Andy {turtledoves}: Invitations

2011-04-25T08:23:00.000-07:00

I love when I receive an invitation for a wedding I am shooting. I mean, they already know that I'm coming, so it makes me feel extra special to find that calligraphied envelope in my mailbox. My hands tremble with excitement as I open the envelope and take my my first glimpse into what is an incredibly special day for the couple. I see the beginning pieces of what they have been planning and organizing and designing. I see their personality shine through the design. Will it be a formal black-tie event? Or a casual backyard picnic? I can see it all instantly. And my creative side starts to salivate with anticipation on the big day! I all becomes real.

When I received the big blue envelope from Laura and Andy, I thought to myself, "This looks like a wedding invitation! Who do I know who is engaged?" And then I giggled to myself. Only like a couple dozen couples! I crack myself up sometimes. It's true. Nobody thinks I'm as funny as I do. Me and myself and good friends. Anywho... back to the invitation. As soon as I opened it, I knew that it was going to be a north-woods style wedding with blue and yellow as major colors. I love the way that the invitation doubles as a tourist-like informational brochure to Hayward, WI. If I saw this amongst a rack of brochures for other cities, this would catch my eye and I would absolutely end up traveling to Hayward, WI. After perusing the invitation a bit, I grabbed my camera, the invitation, and the spring flowers from my kitchen table and headed to our back stoop for an invitation photo shoot!

Because this was a "destination wedding" away from the cities, the invitation included a map of attractions around the small town. My favorites included West's Hayward Dairy and Tremblay's Sweet Shop. Both of which were fantastic when it came to shooting photos in their shops on the snowy wedding day.

So, moral of the story. I love receiving invitations. After all is said and done, sometimes couples forget to set aside an invitation for a keepsake. This way, I can photograph it. And photographs are forever.

Sister Date

2011-04-20T08:39:00.000-07:00

Every few weeks or so, my sweet sister and I have a little coffee date. It's a way to catch up when life gets in the way and we don't chat as often as we'd like. Last week we decided to bring our cameras and jazz up our time together by taking a few photos... just for fun! We went to Corner Coffee in the warehouse district of Minneapolis. Such a cool area with really neat nooks and crannies with awesome architecture. Stacey and I always end up giggling until tears roll down our cheeks. Maybe that's why we love shooting weddings together so much! Needless to say, we're total buds!

Michelle & David {lovebirds}

2011-04-18T06:16:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I met David and Michelle at her Grandmother's house in St. Paul. When I pulled up to the unassuming white house, I had no idea what photographic treasures lay just beyond the gravel driveway. It was a cold morning just after a surprise spring snowfall which melted during the night. Michelle warned me of two things. One, that she must have woken up on the wrong side of the bed. And two, that I have my work cut out for me with not one but two not photographic clients. I don't normally called people liars, but Michelle, seriously?!?! Liar, liar, pants on fire! You guys are gorgeous! Way to make my job easy and totally fun. I am so looking forward to your wedding this May. I feel like I can guarantee that you'll have warmer weather for your wedding, but who are we kidding... this is Minnesota!

You don't have this much fun playing pretend scrabble with your fiance if you woke up on the wrong side of the bed haha. Lie #1 :)

Not photogenic? Hope you are changing your tune now, Mrs. Hot Stuff!

Michelle & David {lovebirds}: Sneak Peek

2011-04-17T08:53:00.000-07:00

Laura & Andy {turtledoves}: Sneak Peek

2011-04-17T08:49:00.000-07:00

Nolan {ducklings}

2011-04-06T15:39:00.000-07:00

Baby Nolan is the tiniest baby boy I have photographed to date! He surprised his parents by arriving two weeks early and weighing only six pounds and some odd ounces. He was such a good boy who was snuggly and sleepy at just the right times and opened his eyes right on cue. Of all the different services hopefeathers photography provides, photographing babies and children is by far my favorite! Who doesn't love seeing their little ones so quiet and perfectly still when in reality we know that isn't always the case. Mom, Dad, I hope that you enjoy these sleeping baby photos of Nolan when you are doing your middle of the night feedings! He's going to grow up so fast!

Newborns crack me up because they can't quite focus their eyes yet, creating several cross-eyed photos! I keep giggling at Nolan's face in this one!

Spring has come

2011-04-04T12:55:00.000-07:00

"When he bares his teeth, winter meets its death,
And when he shakes his mane, we shall have spring again."

-Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe.

Springs arrival always seems the sweetest following a long hard winter. This winter wasn't difficult in a absolutely freezing all the way down to my spleen way, but more so in the snow after snow after snow storm way. Then seemingly endless white has broken to blue skies with marshmallow clouds, sprouts of green growth, longer days, and rising temperatures! It's glorious!

The spring flowers I bought almost two weeks ago are still living happily on my windowsill (talk about a worth while purchase!) They have a couple new friends in the sweet potato vines beside them. I felt like I was doing a fourth grade science project, but it turns out I don't have the greenest thumb so I wanted "life" without having to take care of the plant too much. Sweet potatoes in mason jars are right up my alley!

I am in love with my mini yellow pot I found in the dollar spot at Target. Its going to grow the most adorable mini sunflower (if I can keep it alive, that is).

Bluejay and I live in a tiny two bedroom apartment with lots of classic charm. We spend the most of our time in our movie room/guest room, but it was so boringly decorated! I needed a change. One day when Bluejay was playing a video game called Boarderlands, I was inspired to grab some scrapbook paper and ribbon and add some color with some simple bunting. I like the way it turned out! Makes if feel so much happier and colorful in there! Bluejay thought it looked a little "girly" until I pointed out that there is bunting all over his video game! This next photo is neither pretty nor my photography, but I wanted to prove my point that bunting isn't too girly if you have a a big muscle guy with a huge gun in front of it. He happily agreed.

Back to the pretty, please!

Nolan {ducklings}: Sneak Peek

2011-03-31T10:56:00.000-07:00

Dylan {ducklings}

2011-03-28T17:14:00.000-07:00

Dylan is the cutest little chunky monkey ever! I am in love with his head of dark hair! He was so alert and awake during our session. Usually, it's more difficult to wake the baby up for photos, but Dylan had a mind of his own and want to be awake as much as possible! I think he enjoyed being the center of attention.

Baby details. So soft and sweet and small!

Dylan's middle name is after his Grandpa who loves both wine and shooting pool. We incorporated both these loves in the session.

Dylan's parents met at Gustavus College so of course we had to include some school spirit!

Such a cute little family! Mom, Dad, congrats! I hope he doesn't give you too much of a run for your money!

Coffee Dates

2011-03-25T06:52:00.000-07:00

If we weren't playing Settlers of Catan or Ticket to Ride at the kitchen table, we were probably sitting outside a café. My mom and sister and I ~~love~~ LOVE coffee. Especially if it involves drinking it from a ceramic mug while sitting outside. I'd say a majority of the "tan" I brought home, I got while sitting at a coffee shop! I love that most of our lattés were decorated with lovely latte art. But the best part of our coffee dates was the long chats and many giggles!

Yes, that is a swan in the froth!

Redlands, Ca Orange Groves

2011-03-23T06:50:00.000-07:00

Redlands, Ca has been known for it's scenic landscape views and row after row of luscious orange groves for years! I discovered my love for this place two years ago when my parents moved there. Bluejay and I joke that we have a vacation home in Southern California because of how often we like to visit. We stopped at my favorite grove in hopes of catching some beautiful shots of the Orange trees and snow capped mountains in the distance, but the peaks were covered by clouds. It must have been snowing up there. So, instead, my sister and I did a mini photo shoot amongst the trees.

Meet Stacey. Many of my brides and grooms will know her so much better after this year because she will be my second shooter for their weddings! I'm so excited! Stacey is so artistic and will bring a fresh perspective. She is always laughing or telling a joke; she's one of the most full of joy people I have ever met. She is a beautiful graphic designer. She is actually in the process of starting a freelance graphic design company called Plaid Poppy. We'll work hand in hand and soon be offering custom wedding invitations, wedding websites, and photo albums. I'll keep you posted on her website and information! In the meantime, meet my adorable sister!

She took some photos of me. While, true to the nature of most photographers, I'd prefer be BEHIND the camera rather that in FRONT of the camera, I really like these photos! It's actually fun to have photographic proof I was apart of the trip instead of knowing I'm the one taking the photos.

Dylan {ducklings}: Sneak Peek

2011-03-22T18:27:00.000-07:00

Spring

2011-03-22T06:56:00.000-07:00

Spring has officially begun! While in California, there were wildflowers and rolling green hills galore. Here in Minnesota, we have dirty brown piles of melting snow and muddy puddles as our March landscape. Not that I'm complaining. I know we have some splendid weather ahead. In the meantime, I decided our home needed some color and some life, so I bought some yellow and orange flowers! They have been and will continue to be quite refreshing to me. Especially since I have heard rumors that we are getting nearly half a foot of fresh snow! It must end eventually!

Santa Monica, Ca

2011-03-21T06:38:00.000-07:00

Last summer, my sister, Stacey, lived in Santa Monica, Ca. Even though my parents live an hour away, each week, my mom made the trek over to see Stacey. She figured driving an hour to see her daughter was way better than flying four hours to see her. So she took advantage of it! Needless to say, they both knew the sweetest places to show me in Santa Monica. I think that Main Street might be my favorite! We had lunch at this little Panini place that has a gorgeous outdoor patio. Stacey saw Boone from Lost eating here last summer!

We walked around the town and window shopped at the cute little storefronts. It is so nice to have such a pretty sister to take photos of around the town!

My lovely dates for the day!

It was super foggy, even after noon! But we went down to the beach anyway because we heard that the waves were "gnarly". After two mins of standing on the shore, the sun burst through and burned up the fog! So off we ran to grab our beach towels and longboards!

The Getty Villa

2011-03-18T13:04:00.000-07:00

The first thing I did once I arrived in Los Angeles, was put on my sunglasses and flip flops! Such a welcome change to wearing fur lined boots everyday for months! Then my mom and I met up with her life-long friend for breakfast at Uncle Bill's Pancake House in Manhattan Beach. Oh how I enjoy eating breakfast (my favorite food), on an outdoor patio (my favorite place to dine), overlooking the Pacific Ocean (my favorite view)! We were off to a great start! Then my mom's friend suggested that we go to the Getty Villa in Malibu after our brunch since we were somewhat in the area. According to the website I looked up on my iPhone, the Getty Villa is "an educational center and museum dedicated to the study of the arts and cultures of ancient Greece, Rome, and Etruria." It sounded cool, but I had no idea how BEAUTIFUL it was! I was almost more impressed with the architecture of the museum than the actual artifacts. I couldn't help but imagine the most beautiful wedding taking place at this venue. I don't think it's possible to get married there, unfortunately. But if anyone knows someone who wants an engagement session there, send them my way and I'll give them a great deal simply for the joy of shooting there! If you are ever in Southern California, this free museum is definitely worth a visit!