byNaomiblog

Be still...

2008-12-16T16:01:00.004-05:00

God entered the world as a baby.

Yet, were someone to chance upon the sheep stable on the outskirts of Bethlehem that morning, what a peculiar scene they would behold.

The stable stinks like all stables do. The stench of urine, dung, and sheep reeks pungently in the air. The ground is hard, the hay scarce. Cobwebs cling to the ceiling and a mouse scurries across the dirt floor.

A more lowly place of birth could not exist.

Off to one side sit a group of shepherds. They sit silently on the floor; perhaps perplexed, perhaps in awe, no doubt in amazement. Their night watch had been interrupted by an explosion of light from heaven and a symphony of angels. God goes to those who have time to hear him—so on this cloudless night he went to simple shepherds.

Near the young mother sits the weary father. If anyone is dozing, he is. He can’t remember the last time he sat down. And now that the excitement has subsided a bit, now that Mary and the baby are comfortable, he leans against the wall of the stable and feels his eyes grow heavy. He still hasn’t figured it all out. The mystery of the event puzzles him. But he hasn’t the energy to wrestle with the questions. What’s important is that the baby is fine and that Mary is safe. As sleep comes he remembers the name the angel told him to use … Jesus. “We will call him Jesus.”

Wide awake is Mary. My, how young she looks! Her head rests on the soft leather of Joseph’s saddle. The pain has been eclipsed by wonder. She looks into the face of the baby. Her son. Her Lord. His Majesty. At this point in history, the human being who best understands who God is and what he is doing is a teenage girl in a smelly stable. She can’t take her eyes off him. Somehow Mary knows she is holding God. So this is he. She remembers the words of the angel. “His kingdom will never end.” (Luke 1:33)

He looks like anything but a king. His face is prunish and red. His cry, though strong and healthy, is still the helpless and piercing cry of a baby. And he is absolutely dependent upon Mary for his well-being.

Majesty in the midst of the mundane. Holiness in the filth of sheep manure and sweat. Divinity entering the world on the floor of a stable, through the womb of a teenager and in the presence of a carpenter.

She touches the face of the infant-God. How long was your journey!

This baby had overlooked the universe. These rags keeping him warm were the robes of eternity. His golden throne room had been abandoned in favor of a dirty sheep pen. And worshiping angels had been replaced with kind but bewildered shepherds.

Meanwhile, the city hums. The merchants are unaware that God has visited their planet. The innkeeper would never believe that he had just sent God into the cold. And the people would scoff at anyone who told them the Messiah lay in the arms of a teenager on the outskirts of their village. They were all too busy to consider the possibility.

Those who missed His Majesty’s arrival that night missed it not because of evil acts or malice; no, they missed it because they simply weren’t looking.

Little has changed in the last two thousand years, has it?

(author - Max Lucado)

Family

2008-11-17T15:37:00.005-05:00

Love the Lord your God with all your

heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.

These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts.

Impress them on your children.

Talk about them when you sit at home...

and when you walk along the road.

Dt 6:5-7

Capture Me...

2008-10-23T17:47:00.004-04:00

Giving the gift of a memory is one that will last a lifetime!

Naomi@ImagesbyNaomi.com

Recession?

2008-09-25T17:12:00.003-04:00

"Every good and perfect gift is from above."

James 1:17

By now all of us have begun to feel the effects of our frail economy. Whether our grocery bill is larger, gas tank is empty, or our pockets just fill a little lighter...all of our "comfort zones" are being challenged.

My first response is to cut back on the "extras", travel less, and stick to the budget. I get confused and sometimes irritated with the political process of a "bail" out plan. Regardless of your stance on this issue...I think we would all agree on the importance of one thing.

Our comfort, our well being, and our security comes from God.

We serve the same God who calmed storms, parted the red sea, and even helped our great nation survive the 1930's.

I challenge each of us to get on our knees before the great provider and pray for our country, our leaders, and those less fortune around us. Then ask God to help you be aware of how you can play a part in encouraging those around you.

We serve a stable God in an unstable time. People look to us to have faith that God will provide. Our attitude should be reflective of the security we have in Christ.

"Thanks be to God for his indescribable gifts!"

2 Cor 9:15

Lucky...

2008-09-14T22:18:00.004-04:00

Just thinking today about how lucky I am.

So much going on in the world and God allows me to have these

two guys in my life.

I am blessed.

Briley Grace

2008-09-08T21:30:00.004-04:00

A new baby is like the beginning of all things...

hope and a dream of possibilities.

(author unknown)

Congratulations to a beautiful couple on thier beautiful baby girl!

I can't wait to watch her grow, explore, and be loved by those around her.

Thanks be to God...

2008-08-19T19:13:00.003-04:00

"Thanks be to God for his indescribable gifts..."

2 Corinthians 9:15

"Every good and perfect gift is from above."

James 1:17

"For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord..."

Jeremiah 29:11

I had so much fun shooting with this adorable family! I am amazed each day at how much they are loved and how much they love in return!

Such blessings leave me speachless...

Cora Grace

2008-08-13T00:01:00.008-04:00

Little Woman...

full of life, love, and laughter!

May your feet carry you to your dreams...

Tiny Dancer

2008-07-23T21:31:00.006-04:00

When the phone rings and you talk to a client for the first time you're never quite sure what to expect. But with Andrea there wasn't a doubt in my mind that her shoot was going to be a blast. She was upbeat, gusty, and ready to try anything!

We could have kept shooting for hours! I look forwarding to shooting with her again and trying out new shots. I'm sure we will see her around town as her career takes off!

Best of Luck - Andrea!

Capture Music City

2008-07-21T19:48:00.004-04:00

Check out this awesome photo contest going on in the Nashville, TN area. If you have a love for photography or just a love of the South, you won't want to miss these images. Photographers of all ages, skill level, and types have submitted their favorite images.

My friend Karen Reinsch got me hooked! You'll have to check out her pictures as will as some of my favorites. Let me know what you think!

http://www.capturemusiccity.com/

Generation 2 Generation

2008-07-18T14:14:00.006-04:00

The King family showed that no matter the age...true love is so much fun!

Train up a child in the way he should go;

and when he is old he will not depart from it.

Proverbs 22:6

Thanks Sammy & Janice for being a great example to us all of how strong the bond of love is! Thanks for remembering that love is meant to be long lasting, sincere, and fun!

I can see your example has already made an impact on the next generation of Kings!

Starfield - I Will Go

2008-06-11T21:56:00.001-04:00

Tuesday night Justin and I went to serve the homeless in downtown Nashville with a group from our church and an organization called "Under the Bridge". (www.underthebridgeministry.org)
We have had a growing burden for the lost and needy over the past few years. It was an awesome experience that has forever changed my world view.

I didn't go with any expectations or great words of wisdom. I went with arms ready to hug, smiles ready to give, and tears ready to shed with my new friends. I came home with SO much more...a heart that says...

To the desperate eyes and reaching hands
To the suffering and the lean
To the ones the world has cast aside
Where you want me I will be

I will go
I will go
I will go Lord send me
To the world
To the lost
To the poor and hungry
Take everything I am
Clay within your hands
I will go
I will go
Send me

Let me not be blind with priviledge
Give me eyes to seek the pain
Let the blessings you've poured out on me
Not be spent on me in vain
Let this life be used for change

Chorus

I wanna live for you
Go where you lead me
I wanna follow you

(Starfield - I Will Go)

Hopes and Dreams

2008-06-02T21:32:00.006-04:00

Take my heart, I lay it down

At the feet of you whose crowned

Take my life, I'm letting go

I lift it up to you who's throned

I will worship You, Lord

Only You, Lord

And I will bow down before You

Only You Lord

Take my fret, take my fear

All I have, I'm leaving here

Be all my hopes, be all my dreams

Be all my delights, Be my everything

And I will worship You, Lord

Only You, Lord

And I will bow down before You

Only You Lord

And it's just You and me here now

Only You and me

You should see the view now

When it's only You

(David Crowder Band - Only You)

Love them Like Jesus (Live)

2008-05-27T19:18:00.003-04:00

God has really been challenging me lately with situations I feel inadequate to handle. I find myself at a loss for words and without the strength to carry my own burdens let alone the burdens of others. I am afraid of saying the wrong thing or not knowing what to say at all.

This video is a reminder to me that He does not ask us to be the answer or to carry the burdens of others alone. He asks us to show others to Him by loving them. He is the only one who can carry our burden and is the answer to all of lifes questions.

As an encouragement to those of you may be feeling the same way, remember to just love others as He would love them. If you have a few minutes check out this video and listen to the short story at the beginning. I did and it reminded me just how much it's NOT about me...but about Him!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hn9dA4PZsBc

"but the greatest of these is love."

John Kiger @ LIMELIGHT

2008-05-22T15:15:00.008-04:00

This past Tuesday I had a great opportunity to do a shoot for a friend of mine. John and his band, "The Rowdy Boys" played at a club in downtown Nashville called Limelight. John really put on a show and we all had a great time. His band was invited back to headline in a couple weeks. If you're in town you'll have to check them out!

Live Life

2008-05-11T21:59:00.017-04:00

"Life is full of beauty. Notice it. Notice the bumble bee...

the small child, and the smiling faces.

Smell the rain and feel the wind.

Live your life to it's fullest potential...

and fight for your dreams.

(author unknown)

Meet Mollie...

2008-05-08T22:46:00.013-04:00

"Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!"

2 Co 9:15

Congrats to Heather and Matt on their new baby girl!

Here to Anywhere in 2.8

2008-04-17T15:53:00.011-04:00

A child's freckles, a baby's blue eyes, a grandmother's laugh lines, and a father's work worn hands are all details that make memories worth capturing for a lifetime. I enjoy every minute of shooting with my clients and allowing them to cherish these details forever is a blessing.

Shooting pictures outside today made me excited about the coming of warm weather and sunny afternoons. With my new 2.8 lens I will be able to capture even more of the details of life that make it worth living. I am excited that my calendar is filling up and look forward to spending many afternoons this Spring meeting new faces and capturing memories for a lifetime.

Wish...

2008-04-08T22:25:00.004-04:00

Ever wished on a star as a kid? Ok...who am I kidding...I still do that!

After reading the news today and feeling overwhelmed that our society is spinning out of control I realized something. The world may be out of control, but God is still in control.

There is something about a childlike faith that makes life seem so much easier.

"He's got the whole world
In His hands.
He's got the whole world
In His hands.
He's got the whole world
In His hands...."

Although wishing on a star isn't the answer. Having a childlike faith that God really does have the world in His hand is. So don't wait for a shooting star to wish for peace, a safe place for our children, or the end of wickedness. Just pray and trust that someone much bigger, more powerful, and loving has us in His hands too.

Little Man

2008-04-04T17:56:00.004-04:00

For those of you who know Eli, you know he is quite the "Little Man". We are so proud of him and can't wait to see the kind of man he turns out to be.

Happy Birthday ~ Elijah

We love you!

Ready to Rock

2008-04-04T17:49:00.003-04:00

My wonderful "IT" department has the website back up and running!

www.ImagesbyNaomi.com

We are ready to ROCK and get back to capturing memories!

Give me a call and set up your photo session time today!

Down Down Baby...

2008-03-28T13:57:00.003-04:00

My website will be down for the next couple days due to a server change. Be sure to check back in a few days!

Don't forget that Spring is here and now is a great time to start capturing those

Memories for a Lifetime!

Life is a "ZOO"

2008-03-26T17:42:00.007-04:00

Ever...

felt like you didn't fit in?

thought it was all about you?

thought no one could hear you?

just tried to blend in?

gone out on a limb?

forgotten to brush your teeth?

gotten lost in the crowd?

had a bad hair day?

been a little moody?

been the last one to catch on?

just tried to hang in there?

had to watch your own back?

~~~

If this is you...

you are not alone!

~~~

Remember to look for the good even in the midst of the zoo!

Sacrifice

2008-03-20T13:24:00.007-04:00

Imagine no possessions

I wonder if you can

no need for greed or hunger

a brother hood of man

Imagine all the people

sharing for the world....

you...you may say I'm a dreamer

but I'm not only one

I hope some day you'll join us

and world will be as one

Oh...you may say I'm a dreamer

but I'm not the only one

take my hand and join us

and the world will live as one.

(Imagine-John Lennon)

The news today is full of talk about recession,"cutting back", doing without, and fear of tough days ahead. I wonder just how much each of us will have to sacrifice in the months ahead. How does our potential sacrifices compare to those around us?

I've been to countries where our "needs" are others luxuries. New shoes - any shoes, eating out - eating at all, affordable health care - any health care, and the list continues. You don't have to go far to see the drastic differences in our world. Even here in the middle of the "bible belt" people go without these comforts everyday.

Each of us has something we could sacrifice for the good of someone else. I want to challenge you, as I challenge myself, to not wait for a recession to see what you can do without. Don't make sacrifice a forced dilemma - make it a planned choice.

I am thankful that I live in this country and that God has blessed me with the gifts, talents, and resources I have. Shame on me if I sit and hold on to these and choose to worry about my own future rather than helping a person in need.

~~~~~~

Sacrifice isn't sacrifice if it doesn't hurt a little.

Let's not forget the significance of this weekend and the most painful sacrifice of all.

I'm Not Who I Was

2008-03-04T21:26:00.003-05:00

I've thought a lot over the past year about who I used to be. I wish I could say that I was someone to be proud of. Sure, there were moments when I reflected the image of someone so much greater than myself. But those times when I didn't respond the right way, say the right things, or "walk the talk" sometimes leave me ashamed, embarrassed, and defeated.

There isn't always an opportunity to say the words I'm sorry. Those words can't change the reality of a who I was then and the choices I made. Sometimes the best way to move forward is to show the change rather than just say there was one.

I hope the people around me now see a different person than I used to be. I want to be genuine in my words, confident in my actions, and value the thoughts, opinions, and emotions of those around me.

I think the words in the song below say it best...

(I'm Not Who I Was - Brandon Heath)

I wish you could see me now

I wish I could show you how

I'm not who I was

I used to be mad at you

A little on the hurt side too

But I'm not who I was

I found my way

to forgiving you

Some time ago

But I never got to tell you so

I found us in a photograph

I saw me and I had to laugh

You know, I'm not who I was

You were there, you were right above me

And I wonder if you ever loved me

Just for who I was

When the pain came back again

Like a bitter friend

It was all that I could do

To keep myself from blaming you

...I was thinkin maybe I

should let you know

that I am not the same

But I never did forget your name

Hello

Well the thing I find most amazing

Is amazing grace

Is the chance to give it out

Maybe that's what it's all about

I wish you could see me now

I wish I could show you how

I'm not who I was

Lucky for me I learning the meaning of Grace. What it means to need it, give it, and receive it.

Weekend Thoughts

2008-03-02T17:03:00.014-05:00

I spent this past weekend relaxing with my family. I rested and enjoyed the blessings God has given me. Here are of few of my thoughts from this weekend.

~Contentment~

Wednesday morning we woke up to snow. Elijah was so excited he could hardly wait to get outside and play. But...living in TN...the snow didn't last long. Rather than be sad about what he didn't have, Eli made the most of the situation. After we ran some errands he excused himself to the backyard and soon had a wonderful creation!

The snow didn't last long but hopefully, with a little help from our freezer, "frosty" will be around to remind us to find contentment in any and every situation.

~Joy~

Layla is growing fast and enjoys every minute of life. If she can find a ball, bone, and yes sometimes even a shoe she is set. She isn't picky about what makes her happy and she reminds me daily to find joy in the little things.

After losing a few toys to the current, Layla was ready...just about the time we were heading back to the house.

~Growth~

Spring is almost here and new growth will be all around us. Sometime I sit and wait for new growth in my own life. I saw first hand this weekend that growth isn't something to wait for, it's something you work at.

Controlled burns are used to keep wild fires down and promote new growth.

God has used some extremely hard times to help me grow.

"He will bring beauty from my pain."

~Trust~

Remember reaching out for your daddy's hand and knowing without a doubt he would be there for you?

Maybe we should try that more often?

~Happiness~

Check this boy out...what more can I say?

Having the weekend off was GREAT! God showed me how to be content with what He has given me, hat joy is found in the little things, sometimes you really do have to "feel the burn" in order to enjoy see results, trusting Him allows us to be free, and well...that my boy is so darn cute! :)

Soul Singers

2008-02-26T18:56:00.013-05:00

Living in Nashville you hear a lot of people claiming they are the next big thing. A waitress at a local restaurant gives you the bill and her life story of "moving to Nashville to make it big". Don't get me wrong...it happens and I only wish I had enough guts to follow my own dreams. But having been here for the last 8 years, I have come to realize that to stand out in Nashville, with all it's "singer-songwriters", it takes something special, something extra, something REAL.

Lindsay

http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=106298776

This girl's got IT. Not just talent, I mean IT. The heart that goes along with the voice. Yes, making it BIG would make almost anyone happy. But this girl is different. She sings each weekend and touches people in ways the "big" artists only wish they could. When she sings you hear her soul, why? Because on the weekends she is singing and believing the words she sings at the same time. REAL...maybe that is the missing ingredient for all those "wanna be's".

Brandon

http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=32613031

Simplicity ~ Raw talent that is fed with a desire to be geniue, real, and true to himself.

I have sat and listened to musicians who had talent but hadn't experienced a word they were singing about. A REAL musician is able to make you believe it because they believe it and have lived it themselves. He has the ability to bring IT out of those around him and his music is a reflection of a change in his own life. Again, being REAL is what brings validity.

I can't tell you how lucky we are to have the musicians we do. Here we are in the heart of Nashville with talent at every street corner, bar, and church and we have the best. I don't always hear perfection on the weekends, but I hear REAL talent, REAL musicians, REAL people's souls being poured out through music.

You want to sing about "waiting on the world to change"... well they aren't waiting around just singing about it. They are bringing people in with their talents so that the REAL change can happen. I could only hope that God would use my talents in such a way to bring REAL life change to those around me.

Thanks guys for not being afraid to follow your dreams!

You ROCK!

Game Time

2008-02-21T21:34:00.012-05:00

Growing up in a small town I didn't get to experience quite the same things that my boy does now. Sporting events in my hometown consisted of hanging out the local park for the church softball league games. Oh...and course there was the occasional "special treat" of an A&W rootbeer float afterward! :)

Raising a kid in a bigger city opens the door for lots of exciting events. Taking Elijah to see a friends band downtown at age 3 began him asking, "When can I see my next show?". I love that he is well rounded and is so much fun to hang out with. We are blessed more than we will ever know to have him.

This past Tuesday we went to see the Predators play. We brought along my nephew Zach. He is another great kid that is SO much fun to hang out with. We are lucky to have him as a role model for Elijah.

Check out some pics we took. We were just hanging out being silly and it was a blast! Thanks "Mr. Tim" for the tickets! :)

Check out Eli keeping the "peace" at the game! :)

Yes parents, hockey is a fighting sport! Kids...don't try it at home!

Did someone say "kiss cam"? AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!

Check out Justin "raising the roof" for some free crunchy tacos! :) The Preds scored 5 goals!

Did I catch someone getting sleepy?

Hockey Tickets - free (thanks Tim)

Parking - $20.00

Snacks - $30.00

Night out with the boys...PRICELESS!

Paxton

2008-02-06T21:31:00.000-05:00

Congrats Ben and Stephani on your beautiful baby boy!

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

Growing UP

2008-01-17T13:51:00.001-05:00

This past Saturday was my Birthday. I guess late-twenties doesn't sound that bad, does it? Normally my age doesn't bother me. In fact, being younger than most is usually my problem. Not anymore!

The New Year is when people think about something they need to change, want to work on, or should have done better from the year before. For me, it's more about wondering who am I right now. Not who was I, who will I be, but rather who am I right now in this moment.

After much thought I have settled on this one thing...I am REAL. I am by no means perfect, but at the same time I am God's creation and therefore perfect in His eyes. I fail and I succeed. So many times I have tried to be this or that and have ended up frustrated by the result. Accepting the uncertainy of being REAL is always the first step. This realization sounds simple enough. But it was really a kind of difficult one for me.

My encouragement to you is to be REAL. Don't be afraid to succeed with happiness, fail without excuses, and to view yourself through God's eyes.

Growing UP is learning to look UP to find out who you are!

Beautiful

2008-01-06T23:37:00.000-05:00

It's beauty that captures your attention; personality which captures your heart.

We live in a wonderful world that is full of beauty, charm and adventure. There is no end to the adventures that we can have if only we seek them with our eyes open.

Jawaharlal Nehru

I hope you never fear those mountains in the distance.

Never settle for the path of least resistance.

Living might mean taking chances

but they're worth taken.

Lovin' might be a mistake

but it's worth maken.

Don't let some hell bent heart leave you bitter.

When you come close to selling out

reconsider.

Give the heavens above more than just a passing glance

And when you get the chance

to sit it out or dance...

I HOPE YOU DANCE!

(Lee Ann Womack)

Childish?

2007-12-23T17:31:00.000-05:00

My hope this Christmas season is that I will become more and more "childish".

Check out the link below. A young boy called into a radio station and shared a story that will change the way you use the word "childish".

I pray this next year, we all have a more childlike faith.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=zCdZwitrNoY

“Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like a child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven."

"Lord, may my present to you this year be a heart that loves you, trusts you, and follows you like a child............"

Workin and LOVIN it!

2007-12-03T21:54:00.000-05:00

Well....the website is almost complete! I can't wait to show you guys what I have been working on. I won't spoil the surprise, but I did want to show you just a few of my favorite images.

~~~~~~~

I love seeing the faces of parents, husbands, wives, friends, and family members when they see their loved ones captured in a photograph. These images are timeless frames of real people and real emotions. I hope that my website will be a way to share these images and maybe brighten someone elses day! Keep checking in....the countdown has begun!

Pirates of ...?

2007-11-25T17:42:00.000-05:00

Most of the time we think of pirates as some fictional characters from the latest Hollywood film. But sometimes I find myself being a "pirate" of sorts. No, for all you literalistic people out there, I am not talking about one of those fictional characters. (Although they do have cool outfits.)

At times I find myself going through life having a good ole time. No cares at all....including other peoples feelings, hopes, and dreams. My lack of care and concern at times leaves people hurt and "ship-wrecked".

"Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry...."
James 1:19

Yes, this is a bit out there for an analogy but stay with me. I want to be a person who thinks about what I say, watches out for opportunities to encourage others, and knows the impact a listening ear and a shoulder to lean on can really have. I want to be careful not to steal people's joy, enthusiasm, and hope.

"...hold on to faith and a good conscience. Some have rejected these and so have shipwrecked their faith." 1 Timothy 1:19

Just as a pirate can sneak through the night without much warning and steal what we love, so can being lazy with the influence we have as Christians. I represent an awesome God and every time I miss an opportunity to show how awesome He is, I am "stealing" the joy of Christ from them. No, we are not perfect, but we represent a perfect God. We should do our bests to be as much of reflection of what He has to offer those who are hurting, lost, and "shipwrecked" as we can.

"In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned." Titus 2:7-8

MuSiC

2007-11-20T18:20:00.000-05:00

Power in music...

It makes me feel...

...sad,happy,relaxed,excited,relieved,angry,energized,bold,loved,
timid,empowered,cherished,strong...

How does music make you feel?

change....will do you good?

2007-11-06T09:55:00.000-05:00

For those of you who don't know I have recently taken a position as the Campus Coordinator/Admin for LifeChurch in Hendersonville. Our campus is a branch off the main church in Oklahoma City. It is a fast pace job with lots of challenges but with greater rewards. It is a great combination of working with people and detailed financial tasks. I am over the volunteers, plan special events, and take care of the financial aspects as well. I have to admit that it can be overwhelming at times but I live for those times when I see God using my skills to make a difference in the lives of others.

Here is the link to our campus. Check it out and let me know what you think. Let me warn you.....it's church like you probably haven't seen it before. :)

http://www.lifechurch.tv/

Lifetime together.....

2007-10-15T19:50:00.000-04:00

Every wedding is as unique as the couple themselves.

We had so much fun capturing the sassiness of the flower girl and the coolness of the bible boy.

Amy was a beautiful bride......

...even though the clock was ticking when she arrived. :)

We can't say enough about Brent and his "men in black" either.

I wish Amy and Brent years of happiness together. They believe in God and have a great passion for each other. Standing for those beliefs side by side will ensure a long and happy marriage.

Best of luck to you guys!

life outside the "bubble"

2007-10-15T19:23:00.000-04:00

I want to be in the world

not of the world

so I can reach the world.

Thinkin......

2007-10-03T21:08:00.000-04:00

“Only has high as I reach can I grow, only as far as I seek can I go, only as deep as I look can I see, only as much as I dream can I be.”

~ Author Unknown~

Sisters.......

2007-09-24T20:51:00.000-04:00

She is your mirror, shining back at you with a world of possibilities. She is your witness, who sees you at your worst and best, and loves you anyway. She is your partner in crime, your midnight companion, someone who knows when you are smiling, even in the dark.

~Barbara Alpert

An older sister helps one remain half child, half woman.
~Author Unknown

It was nice growing up with someone like you - someone to lean on, someone to count on... someone to tell on!

~Author Unknown

A sister shares childhood memories and grown-up dreams.
~Author Unknown

Sister to sister we will always be,

A couple of nuts off the family tree.

~Author Unknown

~ I love you guys!~
~Remember to love each other, ALWAYS!~

Aunt Miriam
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When sisters stand shoulder to shoulder, who can stand against them?

Mercy

2007-09-05T18:03:00.000-04:00

I have been reminded lately of what Mercy really means. I can say that I have forgiven someone and that I have had "mercy" on them. But until I let it go.....as far and the East is from the West......I have not shown mercy like Christ would.

Each day I get up and I stumble. Whether it be intentionally or not. I stumble. (Don't we all.) How awesome it is that we have a God that took our shame and guilt away. He didn't put in on a shelve so He could bring it back out when messed up again. It's gone. We have gone from darkness to light.......and we have been made clean.

I have seen so many people that are close to me struggle this past year. (myself included) Living a Christian life isn't easy. Living up to a "higher" standard is hard. Sometimes it's so hard that when we continue to compare our mistakes to that higher "standard" we become overwhelmed and defeated. We can't believe that God would forgive us, love us, and rejoice over us after we have fallen. But lets not forget that there was only one perfect man.......Jesus.

Mercy is best understood when we receive forgiveness that we don't deserve. Grace is when we continually receive that forgiveness from God. I don't think you can be Christlike and not show both.

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"What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with the your God." Micah 6:8

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I heard this song on the radio today. It struck me right away that I need to rest in God's mercy and not live a defeated Christian life. I am His child and forgiven.....again and again. Once forgiveness is given my sin and shame are gone. Also, if I am to be truly Christlike then the forgiveness I give should not come with conditions. I should not hold on to the hurt someone has caused me. Does it hurt still.......? Yes...... Does it come with questions? Yes.....but I am to forgive as Christ forgave me.

http://www.myspace.com/castingcrowns

http://www.thylyrics.com/hits/lyrics.php?id=1009390

~Mercy is receiving and giving undeserved forgiveness.~

Break Time = Lake Time

2007-08-06T00:01:00.001-04:00

Have you ever had week that left you feeling worn out? Ok.....who am I kidding? If there is anyone who said no.....you're lying! :) This past week was one of those weeks for Justin and I. After shooting a wedding this past Sunday, working all week, and babysitting for family.....we were ready for a break.

We had planned to hang out with some old friends but weren't really sure how we were going to feel. You know.....those days when you really want to hang out and have fun but are afraid your lack of energy will leave your friends wondering why they bothered calling. :) Thankfully God has blessed us with lots of great friends who love us even on our low energy days.

Saturday morning came around and after a short trip to the Vet, (No....not for Justin.....for my puppy Layla) we called up some friends and made plans. It was decided that a short trip out on the boat was just what we all needed. So we packed up the coolers and headed out.

The kids had a blast. I was proud of Elijah and Ashley as they both made major steps towards swimming without holding on to the boat. (Trust me....this was a MAJOR step for both of them.) The big kids had fun too. In fact......the big boys had so much fun I will have to reserve some of the photos for use at a later date. :)

Our trip was cut a little short by the rain. But it just added to the adventure of the day. I must say the best part of the day was towing in another boat which was full of some "characters" to say the least. I mentioned to our friends that maybe they would want to decorate their boat like the boat we towed. I mean.....I really thought that a rusty grill and old country couches would really had some class. :)

Justin and I have been so blessed with such great friends. After moving back from Georgia we realized how much friends add value to your life. We have been lucky to have all different types of couples as friends......tell you like it is friends, hang out late friends, and of course crazy friends. The best thing is that we can be ourselves and know that happy, sad, grumpy, or tired......we have a big family to help us through this thing called life.

I look forward to making lots more memories with my friends. Life can be crazy and leave us worn out from time to time. But finding just a few hours here and there to share with friends makes the "crazy times" and little more easy.

Gotta get away.....

2007-07-28T20:40:00.000-04:00

The ocean never ceases to amaze me. It's strength is overwhelming yet it's beauty causes me to smile. It is powerful at the very core and commands respect. At the same time it gently erases the stress of everyday life.

This past year I had been holding on to memories that weighed on my heart. But when I got to the ocean I couldn't help but think how big the world is and how small my problems really were. Yeah.....not are.....were. God has acted much like the ocean in my life. His strength is overwhelming and his gentle embrace has made me smile. I just have to remember that my worries should be as far away from me as the ocean is wide.

"You will again have compassion on us: you will tread our sins underfoot and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea." Micah 7:19

"......forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead." Philippians 3:13

"....how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ....." Ephesians 3:18

Freedom.....

2007-07-05T21:13:00.001-04:00

As I was listening to the sound of fireworks going off I realized that not everyone has the freedom we have here in America. The sound of loud explosions are apart of our celebrations not of our everyday lives. While certain events in our history have threatened our freedom it is not an everyday battle as in some countries. A lot of people gave their lives protecting our freedom and I am grateful for their sacrifice.

Yet there is another person that made a sacrifice for my freedom that I sometimes forget to celebrate. While there was a time in my life that I felt "fireworks" in my heart I sometimes forget to honor Him the way I would my country. Freedom is best used when it honors the one that gave you the freedom.

I pray that my freedom to practice religion would honor the sacrifice Christ made for me. I pray that my freedom of speech would honor that same sacrifice as well.

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Here are some pictures I took over the weekend. I practiced my "creative" freedom and tried out a few new tricks. I hope you enjoy them.

"Little Guy"

2007-05-30T19:32:00.000-04:00

I keep asking him to stop growing. I keep begging him for just one more "nosey-whoasy". But most of all I keep praying that he'll be my "little guy" forever.

I always thought he was special and his first year of school has proven me right. Elijah was at the top of his class and made his teacher and us very proud. He excelled in academics with the honor of "student of the month" his first month at school. But what stood out even more was how he frequently told his teacher how cool it was that he had Jesus in his heart. Making friends was easy for him....in fact....a little too easy when it came to the girls! :) I couldn't have wished for a more well behaved, kind-hearted, intelligent, and hiliarious boy! (He must get all that from his daddy!)

While I know the years to come will have their challenging moments I know that with God's direction we will continue to be blessed by having Elijah. He is truely a special boy and I pray that God will help us know how to raise him. God has great things planned for him and I feel lucky to be raising such a great "little guy".

Congrats to you Elijah on such a great year!

Moments to remember......

2007-05-22T22:22:00.000-04:00

Laughing, singing, dancing, loving......these are all moments I want to hold on to forever. I go through my day trying to hold on to the memories of the way my husband smiled at me when we first met, my son scoring his first soccer goal, or my dad seeing his grandson for the first time. These are the moments that make life meaningful.

I have always wondered what it would be like to grow old and not be able to remember those times. I have started countless journals with intentions on saving those moments for future story telling. But it wasn't until recently that I started to record these moments in a new way. "A picture paints a thousand words"......or so the saying goes.

Here are some of the "moments" I have captured recently. I hope the friends and families of these littles ones cherish these moments forever.

Out on the town......

2007-04-15T12:19:00.000-04:00

Nashville ~ 3/30/07

In a FLASH.....

2007-03-29T14:58:00.000-04:00

Kids...friends...your weight.....life changes a lot and FAST. Sometimes I just hang on and wait for the next shift. My boy will be 6 years old next week. I keep telling myself I am not old enough to have a 6 year old. (others may actually agree) But being a young mom has it's advantages. He can run....but he can't hide! :)

I have enjoyed working on images I took a couple of weeks ago at my sister's house in Kentucky. I loved watching our children play together and remembering when we ourselves got a kick out of wrestling with our dad and "helping" in the kitchen. It is important to me that Elijah enjoys each stage of life. Some stages may be more frustrating to him than others. (Learning to tie your shoes is NEVER fun!) But he loves to laugh and is quite a character.....I hope that sweet spirit grows and helps him through the tough times we all seem to face later in life.

Here are some pictures from the last couple of weeks. I can't wait to "shift" my schedule and find more time to enjoy this stage of my life.

Take a chance.....

2007-03-20T08:45:00.000-04:00

Going through life is much like driving on a country road. The peaceful scenery and gentle curves that cause the sleepy Sunday drive feeling can change in an instant. One minute you are dreaming of swinging from a tire swing to cursing the stray possum and fowl odor of the freshly squished skunk. But then that passes and your back to rocking on the front porch watching the passing storms. How does the song go......"Life is a highway...." I think that my life is more like a country road, with hills, valleys, and lots of distractions along the way!

I must say that there isn't any way I could go through this life with out the support and encouragement I get from my husband. I have never liked "driving" alone and I thank God everyday that the person in the seat besides me is Justin. While I tend to hold back and read all the directions before starting out, Justin reaches for the keys and asks for directions along the way. (well figuratively) I doubt each turn but he NEVER doubts me.

When You Come Back Down (by NickelCreek)

"You got to leave me now, you got to go alone

You got to chase a dream, one that's all your own

Before it slips away

When you're flyin' high, take my heart along

I'll be the harmony to every lonely song

That you learn to play

When you're soarin' through the air

I'll be your solid ground

Take every chance you dare

I'll still be there

When you come back down

I'll keep lookin' up, awaitin' your return

My greatest fear will be that you will crash and burn

And I won't feel your fire

I'll be the other hand that always holds the line

Connectin' in between your sweet heart and mine

I'm strung out on that wire

And I'll be on the other end, To hear you when you call

Angel, you were born to fly, If you get too high

I'll catch you when you fall

[Bridge:]

Your memory's the sunshine every new day brings

I know the sky is calling Angel, let me help you with your wings

When you're soarin' through the air I'll be your solid ground

Take every chance you dare I'll still be there

When you come back down

Take every chance you dare, I'll still be there

When you come back down When you come back down

Photography is a new road for me. Following something I love and giving it my all not knowing what the outcome will be is a new road as well. When you pick up a camera and start shooting you don't always know what the result will be. But until you take a step of faith and shoot you never know the awesome joy it is to capture the emotion of a moment. Whether it is photography, music, or writing.....find something to take a chance on! And don't forget to look beside you and thank God for the people He has placed in your life to catch you if you fall!

Thanks Justin......for being willing to help me with my wings............

assignment - play date

2007-02-24T16:10:00.000-05:00

When faced with my first assignment and the thought of having to share my pictures in front of my peers I could only think of one subject that would work.......my boy! Now granted the pictures aren't the grand masterpieces I would have liked to present to my teacher....but the subject.....you can't get any cuter than this! I had fun shooting Elijah and learning new tricks with the camera. Not only was it good to get out of the "program mode" that I like to call home....but Elijah had a blast suggesting different poses. (what a ham......he gets that from his dad!) :)

Our class was working on panning a subject with a slower shutter speed to create a more life like action photo. The image of Elijah on his scooter really captured the intensity he puts into his "ride". He suggested the fire pole at the playground and I was surprised by the image I got. My husband and I thought it almost looked like he was 3D and way in front of the other kids. I think this shot showed the action as well as a different depth of field than I had experienced in my other photos.

The black and white of my boy is well.......it's of my boy.....so it's of course one of my favorites. I like the fact that he isn't smiling and being goofy but has a model like expression on his face. I love capturing differences in his personality. Knowing I will always have these images to look back on makes me smile.......and cry!

Well.....I hope you liked my first assignment. I am learning some cool tricks with my camera as well as in Photoshop. I look forward to having more creative control over the images I take. Most importantly I am having fun and enjoying this new adventure.

On the move......

2007-02-17T21:24:00.000-05:00

New job, new house, new hobby........phase one of my new adventure has me wondering why kids are the only ones who get to take naps. Oh to have someone tell me I had to close the blinds, turn off the light, and sleep! But then without these crazy times we would always wake back up to the same reality wondering why our dreams never came true. So although I say this timidly.....BRING IT ON!

I started my first photography class last week. The teacher is quite a character. My friend Jenn and I can't help but laugh at his gestures and frequent exclamation of......"I'm not teaching you anything you don't already know." We often wonder what we are paying for if this is indeed the case. But I must admit (although not to everyone).....he IS teaching me some things I don't already know.

Our assignment this week should be interesting. No more leaning on the "program" settings to think for me. I hope to find time to really be creative and get some good shots. We have to bring our images to class and most likely share them with everyone. Although my first thought is to jump ship and run when it comes to anything that leaves me vulnerable in front of my peers......I don't want to wake up tomorrow, next month, or God forbid next year longing for my dreams instead of living them.

I'll be sure to post some of the images from my first assignment. Feel free to comment and share your thoughts. But remember.....go easy on the rookie!

New Year.......

2007-01-26T15:47:00.000-05:00

"I want to reach out...
I want to be someone new....
I want to dance in the rain....
I want to fight..."

This is a part of a song I wrote today. It may not be an award winning lyrical masterpiece but then again....not many people believe their first works will make them famous. (If they do...we probably have never heard of them.) (case in point)

I am excited about this new year and what it will bring for me. Last year was a roller coaster experience with tears from both the mountain tops and valleys of life. But as I wrote today....I want to stay in the fight.

Photography is my new "Dream". I have no planned agenda on being a house hold name. I just want to go for something I love and not hold back. Life is full of dreams....ones you achieve and ones you let pass you by. Unfortunately too many times I have let things slip by being afraid of mistakes. Yet how many canvases did Michael Angelo paint that we never saw, how many missed shots did Michael Jordan shoot before he scored the winning basket, and how many images would be lost without....Photoshop! :)

I hope you enjoy following along with me in this new adventure. I pray there will be images that make you laugh, cry, (good tears!), and ones that cause you to follow your dreams as well. So here's to a New Year! Enjoy the ride!