Kiki's Corner

New Every Morning

2012-02-02T06:53:00.003-06:00

All-Sufficient

2012-02-01T09:44:00.000-06:00

On a day where my heart is so heavy for my husband who has several decisions to be made....
On a day where mean girl behavior is starting to grate on my last nerve....
On a day where my daughter wasn't treated fairly by someone who really should be applauding her extra time and efforts and encouraging her instead of hollering at her....
On a day where I would really just like to go back to bed and pull the covers over my head and make the world go away for just a little while....
On a day where I was asked to make a slide show for a funeral for the father of two of my students who were given the news this week that their daddy only has days to live...
On a day where if I look with my earthly eyes it seems the cheaters and the liers win (even though I know and believe God sees it all and He is the righteous judge and nothing goes unnoticed by Him)....

....His grace is sufficient! Sufficient grace for even me. What a Savior! How does this world make it without Him? Thank you Father, that you are over it all, every single thing. Thank you for all-sufficient mercy and grace and for risking your name on us...I am overwhelmed at the thought and humbled by Your fierce love and protection for us.

I reminded my sweet girl again this morning, "What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?" Romans 8:31. More than conquerors...carried by an All-Sufficient God!

Hannah Playing Hoops!

2012-01-31T09:51:00.000-06:00

Tuesday night basketball...one of my favorite nights of the week! We only have tonight, Friday, and the next Tuesday. {Sigh!} It's been so fun to cheer for our baby girl and to watch her use her God-given talents and abilities on the court. To say that I am a proud momma would be an understatement! Go #50! We are so proud of you!!!!

Last Tuesday the girls were winning by quite a lot, so Hannah and her buddies got to take a little break and had fun cheering for their teammates and watching from the sidelines. I shot this image on the very last play of the game. Love those smiles!

And then we played another game Friday evening. The girls won that game too! Delight!

Way to go team! Way to go Hannah! I'm looking forward to tonight!!!!

College Friends

2012-01-30T06:27:00.000-06:00

(Hannah took this picture with her i-phone)

This weekend, Rachel came home from college and brought three sweet friends with her. Our home was filled with lots of giggles, college-pranks, blow-up mattresses to accommodate our guests, sounds and smells of delicious home-made meals, and the sound of my dishwasher. I think I used my dishwasher three times on Saturday.

Our house and our hearts were full this weekend and we enjoyed every second! This morning, as I had my quiet time with the Lord, I thanked Him once again for both of our daughters being home this weekend, and for the joy and laughter we shared, and for sweet friends who came too. My prayer is that they feel like they can come back again any time and that our home was somehow a refuge for them....a place to feel loved, to be well fed, to hopefully get caught up on a little sleep (breakfast was served around noon on Saturday morning), a place they know that they are always welcome. What a gift to have our home flooded with joy and laughter and new friends this weekend!

Snow and Shutter Speed

2012-01-26T00:00:00.000-06:00

As I am typing this, the forecast is suppose to be 83 degrees today. Oiy! It's January. and while we normally don't have snow, we normally don't have 80 degree temperatures either.
I didn't get the chance to post my favorite snow pictures yet. So, on this balmy, windy, Texas day, I'm choosing to reflect on the wonderful two days of snow we had during the second week of January.

I had fun playing with my shutter speed. I slowed the shutter speed way down to capture the motion of the snow. I love this effect:

Here is the same angle and composition, but with a faster shutter speed. See the difference?

Here are my raised vegetable beds covered in snow. Once again, I slowed the shutter speed to capture the motion of the major snow we were receiving:

Here it is with a faster shutter speed. The snow was really coming down!

Snow, snow, come again please!!

Snow Ice Cream!

2012-01-25T00:00:00.000-06:00

The second week in January brought record snow to our part of Texas and we were thrilled! We have been praying for rain and God blessed us with glorious snow! I love snow. Even the mere mention of it in the forecast, and I am donning my snowflake pajamas for the night and dreaming of snow. What fun to wake up to snow and snow and more snow! And the early out and late start the next day at school was awesome!

Our Rachel was still home on Christmas break! As soon as Hannah and I got home from our early out, we made snow ice cream. It reminded me of childhood days in Wichita, Kansas, when my mom would make snow ice cream.

I found a Snow Ice Cream recipe from Paula Deen. Seriously! I knew it would be delicious and it only required 3 ingredients. Here is the recipe:

Gather 8 cups of freshly fallen snow....and throw a few at your daughters just for fun!

add a can of sweetened condensed milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Have a sweet helper mix it together. I adore Rachel's hat. She bought it from Krochet Kids International. Here is a link to her hat: http://www.krochetkids.org/shop/the-lucille/
Krochet Kids is a wonderful ministry and I just love it that my mission-minded daughter

purchased two hats from them.

I added some fresh blueberries and some Reddi Whip to mine~yum!

Hoping it snow again so we can make more snow ice cream!

First Snow of 2012

2012-01-24T00:00:00.001-06:00

The second Monday in January arrived with glorious snow! Oh, what a blessing. Our area of Texas received more snow in the country than New York and Minnesota. Pretty cool! And so fun to watch the snowflakes gently falling to the ground. Snow is peaceful when you are warm inside your home watching it fall.

I love the snow!

Chai Tea Latte?

2012-01-23T00:00:00.001-06:00

Yes, please! I found a sweet recipe for Chai Latte and made a few for family and friends. Whenever I visit Starbucks (I feel like there should be some angelic music playing at the mere mention) I skip the coffee of the day version, and the teas, and head straight for a Pumpkin Spice Latte....yum!

But my man likes the tea. He mentioned to me that he really liked Chai Lattes. So, I did a little surfing and found a recipe. You can click here for the easy recipe. It makes a lot of tea! I discovered that I like it too. I run some hot water through my Keurig and enjoy a cup.

I put the mix in Mason jars (love mason jars-don't you?) and tied the instructions with rafia. It's super easy and delicious. I just noticed my island has something yellow on the bottom cover. Oops! Ya'll have a blessed day!

If Computers Were Like Cars

2012-01-20T06:40:00.000-06:00

I received this by email and it made me giggle several times. Supposedly, this email has been circling for the past year. While the premise is that Bill Gates was at a recent computer expo and he reportedly compared the computer industry with the auto industry and stated, "'If GM had kept up with technology like the computer industry has, we would all be driving $25.00 cars that got 1,000 miles to the gallon.'

GM responded: If GM had developed technology like Microsoft, we would all be driving cars with the following characteristics:

1. For no reason at all, your car would crash twice a day.

2. Every time they repainted the lines on the road, you would have to buy a new car.

3. Occasionally, executing a maneuver such as a left-turn would cause your car to shut down and refuse to restart, and you would have to reinstall the engine.

4. When your car died on the freeway for no reason, you would just accept this, restart and drive on.

5. Only one person at a time could use the car, unless you bought 'Car95' or 'CarNT', and then added more seats.

6. Apple would make a car powered by the sun, reliable, five times as fast, and twice as easy to drive, but would run on only five per cent of the roads.

7. Oil, water temperature and alternator warning lights would be replaced by a single 'general car default' warning light.

8. New seats would force every-one to have the same size butt.

9. The airbag would say 'Are you sure?' before going off.

10. Occasionally, for no reason, your car would lock you out and refuse to let you in until you simultaneously lifted the door handle, turned the key, and grabbed the radio antenna.

11. GM would require all car buyers to also purchase a deluxe set of road maps from Rand-McNally (a subsidiary of GM), even though they neither need them nor want them. Trying to delete this option would immediately cause the car's performance to diminish by 50 per cent or more. Moreover, GM would become a target for investigation by the Justice Department.

12. Every time GM introduced a new model, car buyers would have to learn how to drive all over again because none of the controls would operate in the same manner as the old car.

13. You would press the 'start' button to shut off the engine.

Snopes.com explains that this email is false, perhaps Bill Gates didn't make this comment, but regardless, I like the 13 things list.

It's a Balmy 79 Degrees Outside

2012-01-19T15:38:00.000-06:00

...and it's January 19th. That's crazy! I realize we live in Texas and crazy weather is to be expected, but last week we had 11 inches of snow! Snow, I tell you! Delightful snow!

Which reminds me of this little snowman. I took his picture in front of our Christmas tree....love the beautiful bokeh in the background. I heart snowmen!

Don't you?

My Favorite Tuesday Night Activity!

2012-01-17T05:34:00.001-06:00

My Rachel went back to college yesterday {sigh!} and I already miss her like crazy! So much for my resolution to try to attempt to eat a little better. With Hannah still at basketball practice and One Act Play practice, and Mr. Incredible at work, I came home to a very quiet house...so I drowned my sorrows in a bit of left over mac and cheese and a few bites of chocolate.

I checked on my Rachel via text and she was doing great and enjoying being reunited with her friends and that makes this heart of mine so happy! And then I watched the movie Valentine's Day, watched KU beat Baylor, picked up Hannah from One Act Play, Mr. Incredible surprised me with a Pumpkin Spice Latte from Starbucks (he speaks my love language), and went to bed. I've been up since 4 this morning. We have a full week ahead, it's good to be busy this week.

Tonight is one of my favorite nights of the week; I get to watch my baby girl on the basketball court. Go #50!!!!

Lucy Says:

2012-01-11T14:45:00.000-06:00

I came across this image this week and thought it was pretty cute. The presents don't always have to be wrapped in a tiny box, they can be wrapped up in acts of love....like emptying the dishwasher just because, offering to pick up something for dinner, stopping by Starbucks on his way home from work to pick up my favorite Pumpkin Spice Latte (he speaks my love language), or sending me a sweet text to let me know that he is thinking about me and that he loves me. I love those gifts even more than the fancy-schmanshy ones.

I rather like Lucy's line of thinking....don't you? And it makes me wonder what kind of week we would have if we caught ourselves thinking of "presents" of love we could give our spouses. Don't wait for Valentine's Day....why not today?

Happy 2012

2012-01-04T09:13:00.001-06:00

It's already the 4th of January...and I have yet to write a blog post for the new year~so sorry! I hope that you and your family had a wonderful Christmas!

Our family was blessed to spend time together, with my family, and with Mr. Incredible's family. My Uncle, the pro-bass fisherman, came down from Oklahoma to be with us and we were so glad to see him.

Our Texas Palm tree in the snow (taken with my Iphone)

And it snowed here on Christmas Eve. We actually had a white Christmas. Delight! It was fun to carry presents and the food that we made for Christmas Eve dinner back and forth between our house and my parent's house in the snow.

Our Christmas tree (taken with my Iphone)

We woke up Christmas morning to even more glorious snow on the birthday of the King. On Christmas Eve, we told the girls they could sleep in Christmas morning because due to the snow, our Christmas Day services were cancelled. They slept until 7:30 because this momma could not wait for them to get up! I tried to be quiet as I made my coffee, read the newspaper, and turned on the Christmas tree lights, but then I couldn't wait any longer. By this time, my man was awake and he and I together woke up the girls. They laughed at both of us and reminded us that we told them they could sleep in...and then they remembered it was Christmas morning and bounded out of bed!

We watched a few hundered episodes of Fez in That 70's show (one of Rachel's gifts in her stockings-she loves this show)and then got dressed to celebrate Christmas with Mr. Incredible's family. What a blessed Christmas Day.

The girls and I spent the rest of the week trying to sleep in, we spent an entire day in our pajamas watching movies and that was fun, haircuts, manicures, having lunch out (after all of the traditional delicious Christmas dinners we were ready for Mexican food), and even catching a movie with Mr. Incredible after work. We saw "I Bought a Zoo" and loved it. Have you seen it?

The week flew by as New Year's Eve quickly arrived. New Year's Day found us celebrating and singing at church that morning, we celebrated Mr. Incredible's mother's birthday that evening, and then put up all of the Christmas decorations. Whew! Then it was time to go to bed and back to teaching Monday morning.

I woke up early Monday morning and asked my man if he could hear that? He listened and asked me what I heard. I told him it was the collective groans of teachers and students that had to go back to school the day after New Year's Day. He felt no sympathy. My sleepy students greeted me Monday morning with sleepy, half-hearted smiles...and I totally understood.

I'm thankful for a new year, a fresh start, new ideas swirling in my head for photography this year, my drive to get things de-cluttered and reorganized, and a Saviour who is the same yesterday, today, and forever!

Reflecting...

2011-12-31T17:49:00.001-06:00

...on the blessings and joys of 2011 and thanking God for His daily faithfulness! Yes, He has been so faithful, even when I wasn't, what amazing Love! We celebrated Rachel's high school graduation, Hannah's basketball team's district championship, three generations travelled to the Holy Land together, and tearfully said our goodbyes as we took Rachel to her first semester of college.

I've learned once again that God is more than enough....more than enough to hold us all in the very palm of His hands, even when we are not living under the same roof. But, I am so thankful that she is home for Christmas break! I sleep so much better when everyone is home.

Hannah started her freshman year in high school....two freshman daughters-one in college, and one in high school. Be still my heart! Mr. Incredible and I celebrated 21 years of marriage. I have now officially been married half my life. Wow!

I learned what it means to say goodbye to my last living grandparent on earth this summer. I just know Grandmother has had the sweetest heavenly reunion with my grandpa and thought about the Christmas celebration she is having this year.

I learned what it means to trust God once again, even when things are not going according to my plans and to trust Him even when it hurts so much that you can hardly breathe! He is faithful...even in spite of me.

I could go on and on about the many lessons and blessings learned and gained this year. I'm thankful that God still has work for me to do here and for the greatest joy in being a wife and momma.

I'm thankful for my high school students and parents and the teachers and staff that I am blessed to work with.

And I am thankful for my photography business and clients and the joy this adventure with the Lord brings. It is still amazing to me that so many precious clients choose me to capture their memories. I don't take this blessing for granted. There are many photographers to choose from these days and I feel so honored when they choose me. I absolutely fall in love with all of my clients. It is a joy to capture their love for each other...from the newest, fresh from Heaven babies to the couples who are still so deeply in love after so many years together~thank you from my heart!

May each one you have a blessed new year!

From Our Family to Yours

2011-12-24T00:47:00.000-06:00

have a wonderful Christmas and a blessed new year!

Today is Finally Here

2011-12-15T08:31:00.000-06:00

Yes! The day I have been waiting for since August 23rd is FINALLY here! My Rachel comes home from college! Absolute delight!!!

I am so looking forward to re-watching all the Christmas Hallmark movies (I've recorded so many for her), Starbucks runs, lots of giggles, getting caught up, sitting all together in church again, doing our annual Christmas lights tour, baking together, crafting together, staying in our pajamas until noon just for fun, and hearing the sweet noises of sisterhood reunited once again.

My heart is filled to overflowing. On August 23rd, I wasn't sure that I could make it until Christmas break but once again the Faithful One somehow made the time go by so quickly. I'm just praying that Christmas break won't go by quite as quickly as her first fall semester in college!

Welcome home sweet Rachel; we have missed you!

A Hometown Christmas Parade

2011-12-14T00:00:00.002-06:00

Our town hosts an annual Christmas Parade complete with floats, firetrucks, tractors, horses, the high school band, and even Santa makes an appearance. This year, the weather changed and it was COLD! As always, it was fun to meet up with family and friends downtown to watch the parade.

This was Hannah's first Christmas parade to march with the high school band. She looked so cute in her Santa hat playing the flute.

Pretty soon, after the band came Santa! It was so fun to watch all the little ones as their eyes lit up when they saw him.

Texas parades complete with Rangers/mules, decorated trailers and trucks:

This horse and buggy were new to the parade this year and a big hit! Do you have lighted tractors in your Christmas parades. We do and they are always fun to see.

A fun Christmas tradition for our town. Do you have a Christmas parade where you live?

Hoop~There it is!

2011-12-13T14:07:00.000-06:00

It's the most wonderful time of the year! Yes, it is Christmas time, but it's also Hoop time! Woo-hoo. Hoop, there it is, hoop there it is....anyone else singing that song now too?!

Our baby girl and her JV team got to play in our town's infamous Hoop tournament. Meaning, they got to play some really great varsity teams. Varsity games are faster and full of excitement and it was fun to watch our baby girl rise to the occassion.

True, she got hit in the jaw and broke a tooth, but a trip to our local dentist and she is as good as new. No, it wasn't one of her front teeth, praise the Lord. Three games in three days~delight. No, they didn't win the tournament but they gained some valuable experience in the process and that was fun to watch.

I've been super swamped with photography sessions, edits, custom designed cards, ordering, and packaging that I am way behind on posting pictures of Hannah playing basketball. So, in hopes of getting somewhat caught up, here are some images of our baby girl hoop-ing it up!
This team was fierce and the girl Hannah was jumping against was tall and tough. Hannah jumped higher than I've seen her jump.

This was a different game-I believe our girls won 45-15! Hannah had 8 points in this game and 4 steals! 4 Steals! Woo hoo! I lost track of the rebounds.

Back to the tournament and playing varsity teams. I like Hannah's fierce look on her face as she tried to block a shot. She was focused!

Hannah and her team have a game tonight and another game Friday afternoon. I love having two games a week. Basketball season is here to stay. Yippee!

Sic 'em Bears!

2011-12-12T08:48:00.000-06:00

My man and I were so excited to when it was announced that Baylor's RG3 won the Heisman!!! What a thrill and an honor for Baylor Nation. Robert Griffin III was well spoken and gracious when he received the coveted award and honor....and we loved his superman socks! Sic 'em Bears!

These Boots Were Made for Walking

2011-12-09T00:00:00.017-06:00

Monday night in Las Vegas, we were blessed to attend the National Finals Rodeo. I've only watched it on tv nearly every year, but never in person. I was so excited and giddy about being there with my man.

We were blessed with amazing tickets and that's pretty much when I was aching for my camera and super-duper long lens. We were on the 12th row, but I wanted to see the eyeballs of the horses who were more than ready to chase those cows and the bulls who were anxious to buck the cowboys off their backs. Oh, it was so fun to be there!

Surrounded by cowboys, I fell head over heals in love! Not with a cowboy, with a cowboy's rockin' camera lense. I was on the edge of my seat glancing at a lense from a distance, this lense was as long as my arm and as wide as my whole head. I was dreaming about what kind of shots this cowboy photographer was getting when my man laughed out loud. I looked at him and asked what was so funny. He said, you are really into this aren't you? But, you are missing all the action, because you keep staring at that lense. Ha! Does my man know me well or what?!
I did manage to watch some of the action. Here is a little video clip of the bull riding:

Before we got there, my man took me shopping and we found the cutest pair of new boots for me. The cutest cowboy in Las Vegas, we wish Hannah were with us, helped me pick these out and try them on. Have you tried on pair of cowboy boots lately? They fit like a glove. Delight! I had fun wearing these to the NFR, I felt a little cowgirl-ified. It was fun!

This angle cracks me up, it makes it look like I wear a size 30 or something-for the record, I wear an 8 1/2 or a 9 (my husband use to think that I wear a 10 like him-I'll have to share that funny story another day). I snapped this picture to text it to my girls for their approval. I got an awesome from them both and headed to the check out. Do you wear cowgirl boots?

We've Been On the Go

2011-12-08T09:31:00.000-06:00

My husband's annual business trip to Las Vegas was this past weekend. We got up at the early hour of 3:30 AM to get ready to make the two hour drive to the airport (we flew out of another city because Hannah would be playing a basketball game on the Tuesday we flew back home and this momma is not missing a game if I can help it). We arrived on time to catch our flight. We flew out at 8:00 Texas time and arrived at 9:30 Las Vegas time...and I was tired!

Lots of people were in Las Vegas this weekend too. There was the National Finals Rodeo, a Country Music Awards, and a marathon run through the strip where 44,000 people ran 27 miles....I'm tired just typing that. Wow! We watched the marathon while we ate a steak dinner~something is so wrong about that last sentence!

While we made our way around town and did some shopping, Mr. Incredible and I stumbled across this site. Poor Green M was on a crane. I purposefully left my camera at home, I was trying to relax, and wouldn't you know, I saw about a thousand awesome photo opportunities. I snapped this one with my Iphone, please excuse the grainy-ness of this photo.

I'm not sure what they were doing with her or where she was going but I think this photo begs for a caption. Any ideas?

Photo of the Morning {Our Family Photo Shoot}

2011-12-01T08:52:00.000-06:00

After all of the fun in designing Christmas cards, albums, Gallery Canvas displays, and prints for my amazing clients that I am so blessed to photograph, it was time for my family's photo shoot. Rachel was home from college and the weather was perfect. I was so excited!

And my family gave me this:

Wanna see it a little closer?

I know! It makes me giggle every time I see it. I may just have to have a standout of this image made just for myself~a little Merry Christmas to me.

My family gave me other shots too, but this one still makes me giggle. No, it won't grace the front of our Christmas card...but I'll let you in on a little secret....I put it on the back of our card. Ha!

Did you do a family photo shoot for your Christmas cards? I would love to see your pics...or in my case the out takes. Have a blessed and joy-filled day!

Nonnie and Poppie's Photo Shoot {A Sneak Peek}

2011-11-30T10:00:00.001-06:00

This weekend my husband's parents, Nonnie and Poppie, asked our family and his sister's family to come over for a family photo shoot. Their beautiful new outdoor fire place was finished just in time and seemed the perfect location for photos. Even Jack the dog joined us for a few. We had a lot of fun taking pictures and trying to guess when my remote trigger would work.

This is Nonnie and Poppie with their Grands (Hannah, Rachel, Poppie, Nonnie, and my nephews A and AA)

And all of us in the next picture below~we are all smiling and all of our eyes are open! Delight! Pictured left to right are: Mr. Incredible (my man of 21 years), Me (did you recognize me?), Hannah (our baby), Rachel (our daughter that ya'll prayed for and is now in college), Poppie, Nonnie, AA (we often call him our Lieb), Aunt Sissie (Mr. Incredible's sister-I accidentally typed sitter-that's funny!), A, and Uncle G.

Eva-Class of 2012 {A Senior Sneak Peek}

2011-11-29T05:20:00.000-06:00

At the beginning of this school year, I had a "That's My Senior" contest. So many voted and it really came down to the last second....and Eva was the winner with the most votes. We have been counting the days until her Senior Photo Shoot. We got in a lot of locations during her photo shoot. Eva is beautiful inside and out and I am proud to be called her Senior Photographer as well as her teacher. Eva, enjoy your Sneak Peek and have a blessed Senior Year!

The "W" Family {Sneak Peek}

2011-11-28T06:07:00.000-06:00

This past weekend I had the blessing of photographing this sweet couple who will be celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary this summer! As usual, I arrived early to scope out the lighting and this sweet couple did too. I am so thankful that they did. We were only able to shoot about 45 minutes before a ginormous wind storm arrived.

A Photo Shoot with My Nephews~The Outtake Version

2011-11-28T00:00:00.000-06:00

"The highlight of my childhood was making my brother laugh so hard that food came out his nose."

Author: Garrison Keillor

If you have ever done a photo shoot with me, you know we are going to have fun. I like real belly laughs and giggles, capturing true family connections, pure love and joy. That's part of my style. I don't like plastic poses and photo sessions that feel like torture. I always try my best to make sure my clients enjoy the experience. If I am having fun, hopefully they are too.

My nephews know their Aunt Kiki well and they know that photo shoots are to capture special memories but they are also fun! Their sweet momma had talked to them about trying their best to listen to what I said and to hurry up because the sun was quickly setting. They were being so good...and then I said to my oldest nephew...go ahead pretend to choke your brother...you know, for fun! His eyes shot over to his momma who smiled and then it was game on!

My youngest nephew couldn't wait for his turn. In between the real deal shots, he would pretend to choke his big brother and then we all giggled a lot! I'm not sure how the middle picture happened but boys will be boys and I think it is absolutely hilarious. No, these probably won't go over the fireplace mantel or be wrapped in fine canvas, but I like them just the same. It captures a true side of brotherhood...and I like how their eyes dance with a bit of mischief...and then I thank the Lord for the blessing of being their Aunt Kiki and that I was able to capture their fun personalities and their special brotherhood bond and pray that they always love each other the way they do today.

Jacob-Class of 2012 {A Senior Sneak Peek}

2011-11-23T00:00:00.006-06:00

The oldest son of the sweet "N" famiy is a senior this year! Typing those words takes me back to what seems like yesterday when Rachel was enjoying her senior year. We decided to take a few senior pictures with Jacob's letter jacket and I am so thankful that we did... the colors of fall really make his jacket stand out in these images. Jacob, I pray that you have the most wonderful senior year!

The "R" Family {A Sneak Peek}

2011-11-22T07:05:00.000-06:00

I am quickly wrapping up the 2011 sessions. This family was sweet to allow me to reschedule their appointment after 40 fire ants landed me in the emergency room a weekend ago. I am thankful that they were willing to push it back a week...the weather could not have been more beautiful. "R" family, I hope you enjoy your Sneak Peek:

The "N" Family {A Sneak Peek}

2011-11-21T00:31:00.000-06:00

This past Saturday evening, I had the absolute blessing of photographing the "N" family. Mr. and Mrs. "N" are two of the finest teachers in our school district and they are raising two of the finest young men in our school district as well. I have had the privilege of having both of their sons in my computer classes. They are incredible young men inside and out.

I could have spent hours with this family. Their love for each other shines so brightly and they are crazy fun to be around too.

"N" family, thank you for the blessing of getting to capture your family photos. I hope that you enjoy your Sneak Peek.

A Photo Shoot with My Nephews

2011-11-18T00:00:00.004-06:00

My photo sessions for 2011 are quickly winding down. I am filling orders and designing custom Christmas cards, albums, canvas, and standouts like crazy. My sweet sister-in-law patiently waited for a break in my crazy busy schedule so that I could photograph my favorite nephews.

We couldn't have asked for a better day. I absolutely love the colors of fall. My nephews were so much fun and willing to go anywhere...even braving a few ant beds. I was confident that if any fire ants were around, they would find me and not them. Thankfully, the fire ants didn't make an appearance in this photo shoot after all.

I can't get over how much they have grown in one year. Here are a few of my favorites from our photo shoot:

I think this one is my absolute favorite:

But then I look at this one and think to myself, "This is my favorite!"

I'm so thankful that it is their momma that has to decide and not their Aunt Kiki.

Start Each Day

2011-11-17T08:13:00.000-06:00

And today really is my birthday! I saw this advertisement above from Kate Spade and thought it was cute and a great way to live...although the best way to live is to start each day with the King of kings and Lord of lords and to try to live for His purpose, His plans, and His delight. Oh, it's not easy...the more birthdays that I have, the harder it seems to get some days. Can anyone relate? I'm thankful for His plans, His love, His compassion, His patience, His mercy, and His grace, do-overs, second chances, forgiveness, and that He blessed me with the absolute best parents in the world, the most incredible husband and in-laws, and my girls....oh my girls, there are no greater treasures next to Jesus.

Photographer Down

2011-11-15T06:50:00.000-06:00

This is that wonderful busy time of year for me as a photographer. The last several weeks have been flooded with photo sessions, late night edits, and designing lots of custom Christmas cards and filling orders. And I have loved every minute of it...but I am starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel. My last day to place orders for my clients is November 26th and then Kiki's Corner Photography will be closed until January 2nd so that I can spend Christmas with my family.

This past weekend I had 4 photo shoots. Saturday morning began bright and early with Laci's Senior Personality Photo Shoot. We had so much fun; we even braved an old building where ~~thousands~~, okay 50 pigeons nearly made me pee my pants as they flew over our heads on their way out of the building. I even squeeled a little bit. And this is how Laci reacted:

That evening I had another photo shoot of a sweet family, but I can't post pictures until after Christmas~they are a sweet surprise for family members. The photo shoot was so fun. Their little one was happy, they were happy, the lighting was perfect, and I was happy because my man came along too. I love it when he joins me on photo shoots!

A few minutes into the photo shoot I noticed my right leg started itching. I thought maybe I had gotten into stickers or something. So, I itched my leg a bit and continued on. Towards the end of the photo shoot, I knew I was breaking out in hives all over my body. I tried to stay calm and professional and not scratch. When we told our our sweet clients good bye and drove home, I started scratching violently. It was bad!

As soon as we got home, I jumped into the shower and took two Benadryl. Yes, hives had taken over my body; I even had them on my scalp!

The next morning I woke up to 40 terrible looking bites on my right leg, and a few on my hands. My right ankle was terribly swollen. We called the nurse hotline to see what to do and it turns out a trip to the emergency room was in order.

Long story short, it was fire ants. My right leg is getting better but it has been terribly painful. The doctor couldn't believe that I didn't know I was getting swarmed by fire ants. I was just focused on my clients and getting the perfect shot.

Needless to say, on a small scale, my leg looks like a freak show and it has caused a lot of pain. Thankfully, this morning I was able to walk on it without terrible pain and the swelling is finally looking better. I am always a bit clumsy on photo shoots but this is over the top. Oiy!

Laci's Senior Personality Photos {A Sneak Peek}

2011-11-14T09:01:00.000-06:00

I had the absolute blessing of taking Laci's Senior Personality Photos. She is one of my students and one of my Senior Editors for the Yearbook. She is fun, quirky, a breath of fresh air, crazy creative, funny, exceptionally smart, a joy to be around, and so much more. I was so thankful that she chose me to take her senior photos. Laci, I had a blast spending Saturday morning with you and your mom. I hope you enjoy your sneak peek and the rest of your senior year!

Hoop Time is Finally Here!

2011-11-11T06:57:00.000-06:00

Watching my baby girl play basketball...makes even some of the most difficult of weeks seem so much better! Hannah (#50) played in her very first high school basketball game. It was quite a thrill to watch her put on her first high school jersey.

Being the proud momma that I am, I made special gift bags for Hannah and the entire JV and Varsity teams. Our girls won 65-6!

It was fun to watch her on the court again. I loved every second that she was on the court...and loved it even more getting to sit next to her sister (Rachel suprised her by coming in to see her first high school game), her daddy, my parents, Mr. Incredible's parents, and my sister-in-law, my nephews, and Mr. Incredible's Aunt Sug. Delight!

Rainbow Cupcakes A La Hannah

2011-11-10T00:00:00.000-06:00

The band's theme this year is everything Beatles. Some of the band parents and I decorated the band hall right before contest in the 70's Groovy vibe style. It was fun. The week of competition I designed t-shirts and sold them with the theme on the front and all of the band member's names on the back. I sold 126 shirts in one day~crazy! And right in the middle of all of this, Hannah told me that she wanted to do something special for her fellow band members and directors~70 members in all.

She saw rainbow cupcakes on the internet and really, really wanted to make them for the band. I promised that we would find the perfect time to make them and thankfully we did. We made them on a Thursday evening after school. We started at 6:00 and finished at 12:30. There was lots of joy and laughter in our kitchen and shouts coming from the final World Series game as we rooted for our Texas Rangers.

My baby girl is blessed with that "P" word (patience) and she worked tirelessly on her cupcakes. We mixed together the cake batter and then carefully added just the right amount of food coloring to each bowl.

She carefully lined the pans with foil cupcake liners and then it was time to begin:

She spooned just the right amount of purple in the bottom of each cupcake tin:

Then layered the blue over the top of that and then green, etc.

All of that became much too time consuming. So, we regrouped and poured the colored cake mixture in ziplock bags, cut the tip of the end and used them as if they were icing bags. This speeded the process up greatly.

Finally, 72 cupcakes were carefully retrieved from the oven and set out to cool:

We could hardly wait to see what they looked like on the inside. Hannah carefully, peeled back one side to reveal the awesome rainbow cupcakes:

After they were cooled, we added the canned frosting and sprinkles to the tops. They look like ordinary cupcakes at first glance:

But the groovy-est surprise waits inside! Hannah was excited to share her creations with her friends. Making cupcakes for over 6 hours with my baby girl was a blast!

Falling From the Sky

2011-11-09T00:00:00.000-06:00

The other evening, we were blessed with rain. I was so busy working on ordering prints, designing photography albums, and Christmas cards for my wonderful clients that I didn't even notice. Mr. Incredible called to me as soon as he got home from work. He sweetly said, "Sweetheart, grab your camera!" I'm so thankful that he didn't let me miss this. The rain on the horizon looked liked sheets of gold falling from the sky. And with the drought our part of Texas is in the middle of...that's just what the rain means to us~drops of gold falling from the sky.

She Came Home!

2011-11-08T00:00:00.000-06:00

I didn't mean to leave you hanging about Hannah's band contest on October 29th. The band did well in the District/Regional Marching Contest and advanced to the Area Contest. The band played and marched well and advanced to the Area Finals where they tied for 4th place. No, it didn't qualify us to go to state but we are still very proud of the band.

If you remember, Rachel was the Drum Major last year. She promised several band members that if they made it to the Area Marching Contest, she would be there. True to her incredible nature, she kept her promise and traveled with her daddy and I to watch her sister and the band march. It was a glorious day to spend together. I snapped this photo when Hannah saw her sister was home. No, it's not the best picture I have ever taken; I took it through my car's windshield, but I love it! That is pure sister joy right there!

Hannah Banana

2011-11-07T08:33:00.000-06:00

I didn't have a spare second to post my Hannah banana in her costume last week. So on this rainy (thank you, Lord) and overcast Monday morning, I thought it might be fun to post them. She was the cutest banana I've ever seen. By the way, no she didn't go trick or treating, I think high schoolers are too old for that, but the band was able to dress up when they played at the previous game. She got a bit tickled because so many fans from the other team wanted to take their picture with her. Banana paparazzi~who knew! Ya'll have a blessed Monday!

Inner Peace

2011-11-04T00:00:00.000-05:00

Our School Secretary sent this email to me this week and I thought it was pretty cute...hope you like it too!

"This is so very true:
If you can start the day without caffeine,
If you can be cheerful, ignoring aches and pains,
If you can resist complaining and boring people with your troubles,
If you can eat the same food every day and be grateful for it,
If you can understand when your loved ones are too busy to give you any time,
If you can take criticism and blame without resentment,
If you can conquer tension without medical help,
If you can relax without alcohol,
If you can sleep without the aid of drugs,
Then You Are Probably ............

The Family Dog! And you thought I was going to get all spiritual."

Haaaaaaaaaaaa! Ya'll have a great weekend!
I'm linking this with my friend Kim's Friday Funnies post.

Photo of the Morning

2011-11-03T06:36:00.000-05:00

I had such a wonderful time capturing these two brothers and their amazing parents. Their family pictures are beautiful but I couldn't resist posting this one. No, this picture won't be the one to put over the sofa or the fireplace, but it makes me smile every time. That precious little brother, who has the happiest disposition his momma tells me, didn't like where he was sitting. But, the look on his big brother's face is priceless and gets me every time I look at it!

Sweet!

2011-11-02T00:00:00.000-05:00

On our Back to School Shopping trip to Frisco this summer, I bought myself a sweet pair of shoes from the Cole Haan outlet store. They are black patent leather and they make me feel like I am back in first grade, sitting next to my mom and dad on the church pew on a sunny Sunday morning trying not to click my shoes together too many times so I don't scuff them. I just adore my new shoes and the wonderful childhood memories they bring whenever I wear them.

The "W" Family {A Sneak Peek}

2011-11-01T06:27:00.000-05:00

Mr. Incredible and I had the most wonderful time photographing this beautiful family this weekend. They are the most precious parents to their handsome sons. Mr. "B" is a busy two year old with an awesome imagination. Somehow during our photo shoot I had alligators and lions and a goat named, "Uncle Ruben," on my head. And Mr. "B's" baby brother is the happiest little four month old I have been blessed to hold in months.

We enjoyed spending time with this family this weekend and were so excited to be blessed with fresh eggs from their sitting hens. Mr. W has taught his hens to sit. I am not kidding~all four hens sat at the same time; it was the funniest thing! And they lay the most delicious eggs. I felt a bit like Martha Stewart driving home with freshly harvested eggs....in my HEB shopping bag (which is normally where I buy my eggs).

"W" Family, thank you for the blessing of spending time photographing your beautiful family and the joy in getting to be led around your homestead by Mr. "B." Enjoy your Sneak Peek:

I Thought This Was Pretty Cute

2011-10-31T00:00:00.000-05:00

My mom sent this to me by email this weekend. We are not big Halloween fans, but I thought I would share it today in hopes that it brings a smile to your face today too:

Two brooms were hanging in the closet and

after a while they got to know each other so
well, they decided to get married.

One broom was, of course, the bride broom,
the other the groom broom.

The bride broom looked very beautiful in her
white dress. The groom broom was handsome
and suave in his tuxedo. The wedding was
lovely.

After the wedding, at the wedding dinner, the
bride-broom leaned over and said to the groom-broom, 'I think I am going to have a little whisk broom!'
'IMPOSSIBLE !' said the groom broom, "We haven't even swept together!"

Our Band...

2011-10-28T00:00:00.003-05:00

is headed to the Area Marching Contest this weekend! They scored a division 1 rating last weekend in the Regional Marching Contest. They did an awesome job! Here is my favorite flute player in the middle of the picture:

And a panorama shot of the band:

We were directly across the the field from the band when the results were given. I had my big telephoto lens on my camera and I was able to capture the band receiving the news that they are Area bound!

A New Day

2011-10-27T00:00:00.000-05:00

What a week this has been...and it's only Thursday! It feels like it should be Saturday....come on weekend! To say I have worn many hats this week is a major understatement....I've done so much outside of my normal school roles and it has left me a bit exhausted. Yes, they were all good things, and I was happy to do them, but I'm tired!

I'm thankful this morning for the beautiful sunrise and the promise that His mercies are new every morning....great is His faithfulness! His Word promises, "Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." Lamentations 3:22-23.

I needed to hear that today...maybe you do too. Oh, what a Saviour!

My Flag Football Playing Nephew

2011-10-26T06:15:00.000-05:00

This is my youngest nephew and he is the cutest flag-football-player that I know.

Last week one of my photo sessions was moved to a different day so I had the evening to go and watch one of his games. I think we got there just a few minutes after the game started.

You gotta love flag football. My nephew got to hike the ball, play quarterback and defensive line all in the same game.

And after all of what seemed like five minutes it was half time! Time to power up:

Chill a little bit on the sidelines, flash Aunt Kiki those beautiful eyes...and then the game was over. Seriously! I think the entire game took less than fifteen minutes. Wow!

The players all high-fived each other and the game was over. After the game, my nephew had a little something on his mind:

And then we all headed to Freebirds for dinner. What a fun night with my nephew!

The "C" Family {A Sneak Peek}

2011-10-24T06:25:00.001-05:00

Mr. Incredible and I had the most delightful time photographing this special family. It was love at first sight when their handsome son, with the gorgeous eyes, stuck out his hand to introduce himself. Oh, he was full of manners and the best stories too.

The "C" Family was so sweet to follow me anywhere, even to locations that might seem less than photographic at first glance; I'm sure that I owe them a car wash. "C" family, thank you for the blessing of getting to capture your beautiful family so full of love and lots of giggles. I hope that you enjoy your sneak peek.

Their little princess wasn't too sure that she wanted to share her beautiful smile very often, but I am so glad that she did! And I totally want some boots like hers...but they wouldn't look as cute on me.

Pink Out Day

2011-10-21T09:28:00.000-05:00

Today is Pink Out Day at the high school in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month. I snapped this picture this morning with my Iphone. After a little scare this summer (everything is fine~praise the Lord)...and a friend battling breast cancer now, Hannah and I decided to go all out and show our support.

How Do I Know it's Fall?

2011-10-20T15:27:00.000-05:00

It's cotton stripping time. Granted, there is not as much cotton in our area of Texas this year due to the horrendous drought, but the few blessed farmers who were able to plant and irrigate their cotton are harvesting.

And all of their harvesting has my allergies worked up. Oiy! I still like the sight of the module builders and cotton strippers...yes fall is finally here!

Fall Break~Delight!

2011-10-19T00:00:00.001-05:00

My Rachel came home from college for a three day weekend. We were so glad to see this sweet face and to hear all about college and her friends and even....boys...yes, her daddy is still taking his blood pressure medicine regularly. The three days were not nearly long enough....I needed three weeks just to get caught up.

She had her hair trimmed and styled while she was home on fall break so naturally I had to do a mini photo shoot.

Sweet Rachel Ann, the time was much too short but we tried to soak up and treasure every second that you were home. Keep soaring beautifully as we continue to cheer you on. I'm counting the days until we see you again!

The "T" Family {A Sneak Peek}

2011-10-18T06:22:00.001-05:00

There are many times during photography sessions that I am overwhelmed with joy and gratitude to the Lord for allowing me to capture His children...this was one of those sessions. I loved getting to meet this amazing family and to see the love that they have for the Lord and for each other. What a privilege to get to capture them. "T" family, we loved spending time with you; enjoy your sneak peek! More to follow in your gallery soon.

Welcome to the World Baby Paisyn {A Sneak Peek}

2011-10-17T06:39:00.000-05:00

You may remember this gorgeous couple from their maternity shoot a few weeks ago. They were waiting for Paisyn...who arrived less than two weeks ago!!! And oh my goodness, she is gorgeous (just like her mom!

Rachel and I had so much fun taking pictures of this fresh-from-heaven baby girl. We tried to soak up every precious sound that she made.

Welcome to the world little princess! You are dearly loved!

In the above picture, that little "lovey" belonged to her daddy when he was a baby. Love that!

These next two pictures get me every time that I look at them. They capture pure love for their baby girl. I love that Paisyn's mommy and daddy proudly wear necklaces with the letter "P" on them. Yes, sweet P, you are dearly loved.

Now I Want to Go Too!

2011-10-14T00:00:00.002-05:00

I saw this video on MSN Monday evening and cried tears of joy for this little birthday girl. It made me want to pack a backpack for my girls, who are much older than this little cutie, and suprise them too. Click below to see the video:

Check out this great MSN video: Disneyland Surprise

What is It?

2011-10-13T00:00:00.002-05:00

When Hannah and I returned from her orthodontist appointment this animal ran between my house and my parent's house. It stopped to check us out as I snapped a picture. I think it is a ginormous fox, but it kind of looks like a coyote too. I think this animal is responsible for all of our missing wild bunnies, dove, and quail. Yes, it's back to living on Little House on the Prairie times. Oiy!

Hello Gorgeous!

2011-10-12T00:00:00.002-05:00

Monday was Columbus Day and our school district had the day off. Delight! Instead of sleeping in that morning, Hannah and I had an important date. Monday was the day we have been waiting for....time for braces!

Here is my gorgeous Hannah in the waiting room full of excitement and anticipation:

It wasn't long before they called her back. I already had her permission to go with her and to take a few photos to document this special day. We feel very blessed to be under the careful care of this wonderful orthodontist.

In less than forty-five minutes, Hannah's top braces with carefully chosen red and grey bands were in place.

She asked me if she looked funny to which I replied, "You are gorgeous! Just like always!" She smiled from ear to ear.

and brushed her teeth about four times that day. Delight!

I think she totally looks like a teenager now! And way better in braces than her momma ever dreamed.

An Inspired Photo Shoot

2011-10-11T00:00:00.003-05:00

I have waited two days to post this picture...two days! Sunday afternoon, I had a concept photo shoot in mind so I grabbed two of my most favorite people in the world (Rachel is away at college), Mr. Incredible and Hannah and asked them to play along. I promised them that it would take less than 15 minutes and that I would buy them popcorn chicken from Sonic when we were finished.

They both smiled and joined me in the fun. Hannah and Rachel are counting the days until the latest Twilight movie comes out next month and that somehow inspired a little photo shoot, but Kiki's Corner style. The light was oh so beautiful and perfect and the photo turned out better than I imagined, thank you Lord! And it really did only take 10 minutes. Delight!

Here is my Hannah bathed in glorious light.

I just might have to have this one printed.

Mr. Jet's First Birthday {A Sneak Peek}

2011-10-10T00:00:00.002-05:00

My friend Jet came by for a little visit this weekend. His mommy and I were on a mission to capture a few photos to celebrate his first birthday. I can't believe this was Jet nearly one year ago:

Mr. Jet is as busy as he can possibly be these days but he stopped for a few seconds to let me capture some of these images. His eyes are dreamy:

We played with blocks; he liked dumping the bucket and then meticulously picking every block up and carefully putting them all back in the red bucket:

and he listened as I sang a little song:

and then it was time for a fun 1st birthday cake smash...I think this was his favorite part. Hannah let me borrow one of her birthday hats for the birthday boy and I made this special 1st birthday tie in anticipation of his photo shoot:

Thank you birthday boy for coming to my house to celebrate! I can't get over how much you have grown in one year!

A Different Kind of Lightbulb Moment

2011-10-07T06:38:00.001-05:00

To say that I feel like I am crossing the finish line of the week on my hands and knees and just barely making it there might just be an understatement. Oh, what a week!

I'm thankful that God's grace is more than enough to handle it all and that His strength is perfect. I think I've put that to the test this week. Can somebody relate?

To try to not be too wordy, I'll break a few tidbits down for you in a list. Try to make it to at least the last one~cause it's funny okay?

* I don't even know where to begin. Ha!

* Sunday night I broke a tooth eating dinner. Next month I will turn 42 not 62. What is up with breaking a tooth?!

* Monday morning my tooth was fixed. Praise the Lord, now I can quit cutting my tongue into shreds with my fabulous use-to-be chipped dagger tooth. I'm thankful it wasn't a front tooth, Ha!

* Monday night after dropping Hannah at band practice, I ventured to Walmart....not Wallyworld, rather Where-in-the-walmart-world did you people come from? It was packed with some of the rudest people I have seen in massive quantities. I felt like I needed to wear my work out pants and tennis shoes just to make it through the marathon shopping event at Walmart. And why are people so inclined to be less than courteous when they are shopping and experiencing "low, low prices?" My minor was psychology....oh the plethora of opportunities this place would have afforded me when I was still in school. I think I'll skip saving a few bucks next week and shop in the more civilized local HEB. Oiy!

* Tuesday came with an unusual opportunity to test how this heart of mine would react to confrontation. I was reminded to "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:6. Some days it is hard to be strong and courageous. I'm thankful we don't have to do this in our own strength. God always enables us to do what we couldn't possibly do in our own strength. Oh, what a Savior!

* Tuesday night had in store a surprise-to-me-cause-I-didn't-know-about-it-meeting for Freshman parents at school regarding the state's new STARR test. Wow! What a test. I am praying our legislature is keeping our students' best interests in mind...but I'm not sure.

* Wednesday lunch was fun~eleven teenagers, Hannah's friends, came over for a taco lunch. I loved hearing their joy and laughter.

* Wednesday after school involved a trip to a Sports Injury Clinic. I thought we would be there for hours but the school's amazing trainer met us at the hospital and got Hannah in for x-rays and a meeting with an orthopedic doctor within 20 minutes. What a blessing! No torn ligaments and no breaks, just a bad high ankle sprain. Hannah and I had time to stop by Starbucks {pumpkin spice lattes} on our way home for my photography class.

* My photography class left me battered and bruised. The old adage the more you know the less you understand? Uh-huh, that's how I felt.

* Wednesday night I woke up at 2 in the morning standing in my Rachel's room. I was sleepwalking and looking for her in my sleep. That makes me tear up thinking about it. (For the record, I do tend to sleepwalk a little bit when I am extremely tired) Yes, I miss her like crazy, even after her crazy weekend road trip that left this momma spending a lot of time on my knees in prayer on her behalf, and her daddy and sister and grandparents too for that matter (yes, we still love you Rachel, but you are wearing us out! But, we would all do it again in a heartbeat!). So, I woke up standing in her room...I'm not sure how long I was there~weird! But, I somehow woke up and got myself back into bed.

* This next part deserves it's own space and the bullets just aren't doing it for me anymore.

Here is where the light bulb moment occurred! Not that kind of moment. It was a less than incredible moment. Ha! I had finally nestled down into a fairly good night's sleep, when I heard the most awful sounds coming from our bedroom. I heard what sounded like the ceiling falling down on our heads to finally wake up enough to realize that my man had rolled over, knocked his lamp off the nightstand next to his side of the bed, throwing the ginormous manly flashlight into the wall that bounced off the table and onto the floor, scattering his wedding ring, glasses, and remote control into who knows where, and the shattering of a light bulb! Seriously?! Where do I live?

I'm giggling as I'm typing this. I could not make this up if I tried! My man says, "Oh no" as he fumbles to turn his light on, which is no longer on his nightstand, and doesn't even have a light bulb in it anymore. He made his way to the bathroom to turn on the light and discovered what looked like a hurricane mixed with a healthy splattering of tiny diamonds shattered all over the floor~the light bulb had exploded all over the carpet.

What does he do? He grabs the vacuum and tells me to stay put. I heard more awful sounds but this time it was coming from my vacuum. Rurrr-rurr is not it's normal sound. I don't know how my man was vacuuming but he eventually sucked up ever piece of the busted light, finally turned off the lights and climbed back in bed. Me? I was wide awake! Nothing says good morning like the slamming of a lamp, and a ginormous-manly flashlight hitting the walls and tumbling to the floor, and the shattering of a light bulb. Needless to say, I was up for the day yesterday morning at the awful hour of 4:30.

I'm not sure what today holds. Ha! But, I'm thankful to know who holds today in the palm of His mighty hands. Ya'll have a wonderful weekend. The timing of a 3 day weekend could not be better! If you need me, I'll be the one napping...but it may be Desi and Lucy style, only in separate rooms. Ha!

(My friend Kim has more Friday funnies here: http://homesteadersheart.blogspot.com/2011/10/friday-funnies-when-tank-hits-your.html

What a Lunch!

2011-10-06T00:00:00.002-05:00

Saturday morning Hannah, my man, and I watched Food Network's newest show, "The Pioneer Woman Cooks." Ya'll know how much I enjoy her recipes; I enjoy her new show too. This week she made a delightful dinner consisting of steak, twice-baked mashed potatoes, and a corn casserole. By the time the show was over, all three of our mouths were watering.

The food looked so delicious that my man offered to make a run to the grocery store and I gladly took him up on his offer. In less than an hour, we were feasting on all of her delicious recipes from the show.

I didn't even bother to grab my camera, but my Iphone was close by:

It was delicious! You can find the recipes here and here.

"P" Family Goes Vintage

2011-10-05T00:00:00.000-05:00

I thought it might be fun to add a vintage feel to the "P" family photos.

and to show you a quick video of these beautiful Cowgirls in action. They really know how to lead their show animals around. I was very impressed with how they handled their beloved "babies."

Butterflies

2011-10-04T00:00:00.003-05:00

I love this time of year. The beautiful Monarch butterflies are migrating through our area. There are butterflies everywhere. I noticed this one dancing on my sunflowers in my backyard and just had to grab my camera before it fluttered away.

I am linking up with Texture Tuesday where we are sharing gratitude. I am so thankful that I was able to capture these beautiful little creations.

Sure Enough- It Happened

2011-10-03T00:00:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago I mentioned to Hannah that I thought it might be a good idea to get some braces to help protect her ankles during basketball season. I had flashbacks of twisting my ankles during my years playing basketball and volleyball and didn't want her to have the same issues.

She shrugged the suggestion off because she hasn't had any problems with her ankles...until last Thursday afternoon. Oiy! Hannah was guarding a varsity player; when she went to block her shot, she came down funny on her foot and heard a big "pop" sound. She couldn't get up on her own. By the time Hannah was icing her ankle, I had already been told about her accident....I'm thankful to be at the high school and that news travels fast.

The coaches wisely had Hannah's foot in a boot within 30 minutes of the fall. We saw the team trainer Friday evening and he informed us that Hannah's sprain was one of the worst sprains you can have as far as ankle sprains go. She has a syndesmotic sprain, meaning she has a high ankle sprain. She will be out for at least a week, possibly much longer. We see the trainer Monday afternoon again and I am hoping that he encourages us to have an x-ray.

True to Hannah's nature, she didn't want to let her sprain keep her from playing with the band at Friday night's football game. The trainer wasn't really for her doing that but allowed her to play with the band until after the half time show was over and then it was home to elevate, rest, and ice her ankle.

After we iced her foot in a bucket of ice and ice water, so painful when you have a sprain, I found the fuzziest sock I could find hoping it would be more comfortable. You can see her fuzzy blue sock in the above band picture I took Friday night.

We were home all weekend letting her rest it as much as possible; it was always elevated and we kept up with prescription strength Aleve and the ice bucket. We are praying she heals very quickly. Basketball season is right around the corner.

It's Pee Wee Football Season

2011-09-30T06:43:00.000-05:00

My oldest nephew is playing his last season of Pee Wee football because next year it is time to play junior high football. Yikes! And Aunt Kiki just has to brag a little bit...my nephew is the....QUARTERBACK! Yes, yes he is. Naturally, I had to be on the sidelines to snap a few pictures of his quarterback debut, just like I do for the high school boys. I even wore a purple shirt to match his team. It was an awesome season opener as the LSU Tigers (that's the name they chose) defeated the other team in a major way. I don't remember the final score but it was something like we scored 4 touchdowns to the other team's one. I was far more interested in what was in my BGC (big girl camera) viewfinder than the scoreboard.

Little nephew (I hope you don't mind if I still call you that...even though I know you are not so little anymore) you played an awesome game and I took great joy in being able to capture a few pictures of you in action. And you are by far the best quarterback in the history of Pee Wee football! Keep up the good work! Go #18!!

P.S. Your Aunt Kiki loves you sooooooooooooo much!

The "P" Family {A Sneak Peek}

2011-09-29T07:14:00.000-05:00

What an incredibly fun photo shoot I was blessed to have with the "P" family. Gorgeous girls, a handsome little cowboy, and their show heifers complete with bling. I loved every second and I learned some cool things too. Their daddy was careful to make sure the cows always had their ears facing us and thankfully I was able to capture all three of them with their ears facing us and all four of their gorgeous children smiling and looking my way too. Delight!

I hope he has several shot guns...because their girls are gorgeous and he is going to need it when those stinkin' boys come around some day!

And doesn't this little cowboy just melt your heart?!

SYATP 2011

2011-09-28T14:37:00.001-05:00

Today our school took part in See You at the Pole 2011. Many students, some armed with Starbucks coffee (Hello?? Did you forget about your computer teacher?) and donuts arrived early to gather together and pray.

What a glorious morning to pray and worship the One who is so worthy of our praise. The sunrise this morning reminded me of Psalm 19:1, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands."

What a great joy and privilege to be there this morning.

Last Night...

2011-09-27T00:00:00.000-05:00

I had the blessing of watching the live Passion 2012 Promo via the internet. Louie Giglio, my second favorite preacher, next to my dad of course, posed an interesting question: Are you a light in this world for Him or like a lifeless bulb that sits on a shelf at Walmart?

His message continues: We who are fully persuaded of who Christ is need to have confidence in Him knowing full well that if I am not persuaded by Christ, I will be persuaded by this world. And in living this out this confidence in Christ, we are called to be light in a dark world. God is looking for those who stand out not blend in like packages of light bulbs on a shelf in Walmart.

This dark world needs to see light-Christ in you! The way you become the light of the world is you ask Christ to illuminate your heart. And when your heart is illuminated you stand out. Don’t be a bulb. Be a light.

As soon as the link is posted to Louie's message I'll post it here. What a wonderful reminder...be a light for Christ continually plugged into the Source not a bulb waiting on a shelf!

Seven Days

2011-09-26T06:29:00.000-05:00

in Utopia is a WONDERFUL movie. Whether you are a golf fan or not, you will enjoy this movie. The beginning of the movie begins with Isaiah 30:21, "Whether you turn to the right or the left, your ears will hear a voice saying, "This is the way; walk in it."

I have been waiting for the movie Courageous, which will be in theaters this week, but I had no idea that this movie is also a faith-based movie. My man and I loved it. The movie is rated G and has an excellent message. Here is a link to the movie trailer: http://www.sevendaysinutopia.com/video

Our Cibolo Creek Getaway

2011-09-22T00:00:00.004-05:00

My man surprised me this past July with a romantic getaway to beautiful Cibolo Creek Ranch to celebrate our 21st anniversary. It was a little piece of Heaven on earth. We were surprised to find that we were the only guests on this gorgeous ranch...except for a little star....you might have heard his name before...Johnny Depp. No kidding! He was on the ranch but we didn't see him...sorry Rachel!

From the moment we arrived we felt very welcome. It was easy to put our cell phones away and leave the stresses of this world behind.

The ranch has suffered from drought just as most of Texas has and there were evidences of fires in places, but the ranch was simply beautiful. Gorgeous sunrises and sunsets.

I loved the light in this staircase. The middle picture was of our room and the cake on the right was a sweet surprise from the amazing staff in celebration of our anniversary.

Gorgeous photo opportunities it seems are around every corner. I can just see a beautiful bride posed on the green bench, can't you? Every meal was carefully prepared and fresh flowers were always on our table.

Every meal was delicious, but my favorite meal had to be breakfast. The fresh fruit was incredible but their homemade granola was AMAZING! I would love to have that recipe! The granola had just the perfect hint of cinnamon~which I absoluely love.

My man arranged for a guided tour of the ranch with the best guide around named Sugar. Sugar was quite a character, as was Mike our dining host. To my delight, we came upon a family of wild buffaloes! I think I have 50 pictures at least of these beautiful buffaloes. And about 200 more of the beautiful ranch.

My man thought he heard elk calling in the wild. We got closer and closer to the bugle sounds, headed over a hill in hopes of seeing a massive elk only to discover it was a loud goose. My nature-man nearly fell over. And I did in laughter!

The above vehicle was what we toured the ranch in.

We loved the swimming pool and we had it all to ourselves...the entire ranch all to ourselves for that matter. What an incredible getaway. We can hardly wait to go back! If you are ever in far west Texas, you need to plan a stay. You are less than 20 miles from Mexico, there is no cell service, and you will be pampered from head to toe if you wish or left alone to do your own exploring. What a beautiful getaway filled with memories to cherish.

You are My Sunshine

2011-09-21T06:41:00.000-05:00

My Granny always called me her "Little Sunshine." Just typing those words made me smile from ear to ear and I now have a huge lump in my throat and tears in my eyes. My Granny was special and I miss her. She didn't have the blessing of knowing my girls....but some day! My girls have a Granny (my mom) and their relationship with her is just as special as my relationship with my Granny...and I love that!

Last week, the temperatures were still in the 80's (a cool day for us in Texas) and the sun was shining so beautifully that Hannah and I decided to go for a ride on the 4-wheeler. She was driving and I was hanging on for dear life behind her and I loved every second of it. Truth be told, she took great care not to throw me off the back.

We had fun driving through a field until we found the perfect spot. I checked to make sure there were no rattlesnakes or other creatures around and then we had a fun little photo shoot right in the middle of the field...just my baby girl and I. Delight!

This was my favorite image from the shoot. I love how the sunshine dances in her beautiful hair. She is growing up so fast that it makes my heart hurt a little bit, but I am happy for her too and proud of the young lady that she is becoming. What a gift to be her Momma!

Ten on Tuesday

2011-09-20T00:00:00.004-05:00

Is anyone still reading this blog??? H-e-l-l-o?? I've been a bit preoccupied lately with life. Last week was one of those weeks where I had something to do every night after school. And running from one thing to the next can leave a girl a bit exhausted and this blog left untouched. Sorry for my unexpected absence.

So here are a few random things that have been going on in my life lately:

1. Our school has already had homecoming week. We always have a spirit week and each day comes with its own theme. Tuesday's theme was Nerd Day. So Hannah and I embraced our inner nerds and donned our best nerd outfits.

2. Hannah played in the annual powder puff football game. It was the Freshman and Juniors vs. the Sophomores and Seniors....the Sophs and Srs. creamed our girls...it was ugly...these girls could play football and look cute in the process!

3. Rachel came home for homecoming! We were so glad to see here!

4. Rachel brought her roommate home too and we were glad to get to spend time with her too:

5. And with the girls came about 7 loads of dirty laundry! This was just the second load but I didn't mind. My washing machine was happy and so was this momma.

6. Rachel slept until 11:30 Saturday morning. I could hardly wait for these gorgeous eyes to open!

7. Hannah was asked to homecoming by 5 different guys. Be still my heart! I am thankful that she said yes to one of the sweetest guys in school. *Update: 2 asked as 'friends'...there I feel better!

8. I am taking a new photography class. And while it is very much pushing me to the limits, I am really liking the difficulty of this class. I had to apply to get in...and just when I thought I might not be accepted, I was. Delight! When I am not busy being a wife and momma, teacher, and photographer, you will find me putting my photography assignments into practise. One of the assignments was to play with dramatic lighting. I thought this idea was fun and I did it with a simple table lamp:

9. Who would have thought that a little weed could be so beautiful? Love the lighting of this image:

10. Homecoming was two weeks ago...that is how far behind I am in blogging my life. Oiy! I still haven't posted pictures from our trip to Cibolo Creek but I hope to do so soon. I think that is all for now. Thanks for dropping by my little corner of the world!

Happiness is

2011-09-16T07:36:00.001-05:00

teaching your youngest daughter to ride the four wheeler and watching that beautiful smile that goes from one ear to the other and seeing her beautiful hair blowing in the wind.

Enjoy the Caterpillar Years....

2011-09-15T06:39:00.000-05:00

...because all too soon they will turn into butterflies, take flight, and soar! And watching them soar is a great joy. After my haircut last night, Hannah and I called Rachel on our drive home. My suburban has hands free calling so Hannah and I could both talk to Rachel. She told me to hang on a second as she made her way to the dorm hallway and then her voice cracked a little bit. I asked her if she was okay and then she told me about her day and dinner in the cafeteria.

Rachel explained that there was a senior girl who had gone through the cafeteria line and was trying to find a place to sit. Rachel noticed that she was by herself, and feeling the prompting of the Holy Spirit, she asked her to join them. The senior seemed relieved to have a friendly place to eat a meal. Rachel noticed the girl looked very sick and soon realized that this senior girl has cancer. I cannot even begin to imagine.

She and Rachel enjoyed visiting but others at the table did not. In fact, they started texting one another about why was this girl sitting here, etc. and laughing. Naturally, that made dinner a bit awkward and left Rachel broken hearted for this senior girl and for the girls who were exhibiting mean-girl behavior.
I listened as my daughter cried through her story and ached to get my arms around her to give her a hug. Hugs just aren't the same through a computer screen via Skype or through a phone conversation. Instead, I asked God to wrap His great big arms of love around her. I told her that we are so proud of her and that her Heavenly Father is too. She quickly added, "Momma, I didn't tell you this story for you to be proud of me, all I did was ask her to sit with us." To which I encouraged, it was way more than that, and her humble heart knows this too. I fully believe the Lord ordained a special opportunity for Rachel to reach out to a fellow student that needed a bit of encouragement....and Rachel said yes to the opportunity. The other girls simply said no.

Why am I telling you this story? Yes, I am a proud momma....proud of how Rachel responded and thankful that her heart was sensitive to this senior girl and to others who didn't respond in the same way....but there is more to my purpose. God presents opportunities to each one of us every day. And we have the option of saying yes to His leading or no to Him and yes to ourselves.

I see it everyday at school. And the ones who say yes to those Holy opportunities shine like the stars. To be honest, in my lifetime I am guilty of choosing both. Thankfully, even in the times I said no to the Lord's prompting and yes to myself, He offered a second chance and still risks His name on me over and over again.

We are called to be like Christ, not in only the big things that the world sees, but in the small too...when we feel like no one is watching. What a monumental task, being called to be like Christ is. I am thankful that we don't have to do it in our own power....my week has been proof that that kind of mindset only leaves one tired, frustrated, spent, and exhausted. We can be like Christ because He somehow enables us to do what He has called us to do. Oh, what a Saviour!

Speaking of enabling, a blog that I love to read shared this link today: http://www.fromdatestodiapers.com/50-rules-for-dads-of-daughters It is a list of 50 rules for dad of daughters.

I loved reading the list, written by a dad for dads. I found myself grinning and reminiscing as I made my way through the list thinking about my wonderfully incredible dad. I giggled out loud when I got to #19 that says teach her to change a flat tire. My dad did that...he did all of the rules on the list and so much more. I love my dad so much! I love the daddy of my daughters so much too. I think there is a new movie coming out soon about dads being courageous to be what God has called them to be. I can't wait to go see this movie! It sounds like a good movie for all of us...being courageous to be what God has called us to be.

Some Days...

2011-09-13T11:51:00.000-05:00

...you just have to:

And this week has already been one of those weeks. A week where I feel I might lose my witness if I react the way I would really like to act....on a week where I would really like to curl up in a ball and cry like a baby because I miss my college daughter so much it hurts....a week where I am tired of being creatively copied or in an unseen competition with another person (there is room for all of us)....on a week where I feel like I am singing Adam Lambert's, "What Do You Want From Me," song as my theme song in my head all day long....and I could go on and on but I'll stop there (too much info already).

Moral of the story: I am tired (my mom told me that last night and true to her normal full-of-wisdom self, she is so right) and life is far from normal getting adjusted to not seeing our daughter everyday. What is that saying about "normal" just being a setting on the dryer? Ha! It's time to give a little thought to myself and to slow down a bit. Lately I've been running through myself so I didn't have time to think about how much I miss Rachel...is that working for me? I checked my attitude and my answer is a big fat NO!

So this morning I painted my fingernails red (my favorite color), put on one of my favorite dresses and jewelry to match, had my time with the Lord (best way to start a day), ate blueberries with my cereal (yum!), and made the largest glass of iced coffee ever! Attitude adjustment here I come!

I'm thankful the Lord loves me too much to leave me this way. And instead of getting a spiritual spanking like I expected this morning, He offered encouragement instead. What a Savior!

Nope, I am far from myself these days...but I'm thankful God is still on the throne in my life....and my heart wants my life to reflect that in every situation....so I'll try my best to see as He sees and to act like He would act because that's far better than how I would like to react right now!

And sweet Rachel of mine, if you are reading this: I couldn't be more proud of you! Thank you for your sweet visit home this weekend. It did this heart of mine a great deal of good...until you had to drive back to school. You are soaring so beautifully and it is my joy to watch from the sidelines...I'll find my groove eventually so don't give this a second thought. Go be what God has designed for you to be and He will take care of the rest...including your mother!

Fall/Christmas Mini Sessions!

2011-09-08T06:17:00.000-05:00

These mini sessions are perfect for updating family photos and for Christmas cards!

Friday Evening Sessions (October 7th): Old building and Field location: 6:30, 7:00, 7:30, 8:00

Saturday Morning Sessions (October 8th): Old truck with hay bales and pumpkins in a field: 8:30, 9:00, 9:30, 10:00

Saturday Evening Sessions (October 8th): Location TBA: 6:30, 7:00, 7:30, 8:00

The "Y" Family {A Sneak Peek}

2011-09-05T13:58:00.000-05:00

This past Saturday evening, I was blessed to photograph this incredible couple. I brought my man with me to help hold the reflector if I needed and because he wanted to go with me....which I loved! I have had this date marked on my calendar and I have counted down the days. This couple has an Amazing ranch and I could hardly wait to take their picture.

From the moment we stepped foot on their land we felt so welcome and my jaw was permanently set with the Oh-my-goodness-gracious-this-is-a-photographer's-dream-location expression! I took over 300 photos of them and their land and I could have taken hundreds more...but I didn't want to wear out my welcome. Ha!

This couple loves each other! I mean, my camera was smokin' because of the love they share for each other. They told us how they met and so many other wonderful stories. I laughed until I nearly cried when she told us about their wedding. She really needs to write all of this down; I think it would be a best seller!

"Y" family, we loved spending time with you this past Saturday evening. Thank you for your gracious hospitality and for being so willing to walk all over your homestead with me. I hope that you enjoy your sneak peek!

Mr. Y and his dogs. They are all stray dogs and will follow him anywhere. A cowboy and his dogs....love it!

This is a special horse, Rusty. I believe Rusty is over 35 years old. We had to get pictures of the two of them together. Rusty loves her nearly as much as Mr. Y. She is one blessed lady!

It's A Random Friday Post

2011-09-02T06:52:00.001-05:00

Yay! It's Friday. Woo hoo! That means more Friday night football, listening to our baby play in the band, and getting a little more sleep this weekend. I am so looking forward to a three day weekend. This post will be short and sweet today. I see you rolling your eyes...I know I can be a bit long winded at times.

I got the funniest email this week and I won't say who sent it but I have to share the contents:

You know you have been wearing Capri pants and shorts for too long when you need to go to the bathroom, and as you are sitting there, you notice your skirt is around your ankles. Ha!!!!!!!!!!

On another note:

And this morning I woke up to a sweet message reply from Rachel on facebook. She mentioned something about, "I did dance with boys but I'm not sick yet! What???

I looked back at my message to her that I typed saying, "How was the dance? How was the dance?? I can't wait to hear all about the dance!!! I love you and miss you. It was so awesome to hear your voice on the answering machine

And then I fell asleep last night with my Ipad apparently on our message. Mr. Incredible decided to hack my facebook while I was sleeping unaware and took it upon himself to add to my message to our daughter, "Rachel I forgot to tell you dancing with boys is a sin and you shouldn't do it. Also I think it is bad for your health and if you don't stop you might even get sick from it. It's just not worth it, I'm just sayin..... Love your mother."

What??? My man. Oiy! Naturally, I messaged her back early this morning saying, "P.S. I had no idea what you were talking about when you said, "I did dance with boys but I'm not sick." Your dad hacked my facebook! I fell asleep looking at facebook last night on my ipad so he took it upon himself to add that last part and I had no idea until just now. Oh, your father! You know your momma would say: Dance with all the cute guys, make new friends, be brave....and then want to hear all about it! Ha!"

I think I'm changing my facebook password today...do you hear the Mr. Incredible Facebook Hacker???

P.S. I love you!

Mom and Dad's Patio

2011-08-31T00:00:00.000-05:00

I love sitting on this patio visiting with my mom. Hummingbirds are constantly zipping around, the birds are singing near by, and sometimes a little bunny will peek its little head out from underneath her tomato plants. Their patio is beautiful...and so is spending time with them.

Children's Mini Sessions Part II {A Sneak Peek}

2011-08-30T00:00:00.000-05:00

Last week before we took Rachel to college and before Hannah's thumb incident and "floor pizza," I blogged the first part of my August Children's Mini Sessions. But, I haven't had a spare second to blog the second part.

Today is the day! I have to say that some of these photos make me laugh out loud. I adore this family! They are all beautiful inside and out. The three patiently waited for their time in front of the camera and I am so glad that they did!

Cutest cowboy with Justine Bieber hair ever:

And his three gorgeous sisters who had a fun sister-tea-party:

I love how their beautiful mommy dressed them....complete with Madame Alexander dolls....my girls have these same dolls:

Right in the middle of their tea party, big brother stopped by to say hello

But it wasn't long before the two sisters tied him up...with a little help from their mommy and I, and then told him how they really felt about his interrupting their tea party. The littlest princess told him to, "Stick 'em up!" I love how they are both daintily holding the "guns" and the look on big brother cowboy's face. It kind of reminds me of an old Norman Rockwell image. Love it! Thanks sweet "D" family for the blessing of photographing ya'll once again!

That's My Senior Contest {Enter Your Photo by 9/2/11 at Midnight}

2011-08-28T13:04:00.000-05:00

Attention all Seniors, Parents of Seniors, Grandparents of Seniors, anyone that knows and loves a Class of 2012 senior:

Kiki's Corner Photography is hosting a First Annual, "That's My Senior," contest. The lucky winner will win a free VIP Senior Photo Shoot valued at $800.

Here is the 411:

You have until Midnight, September 2, 2011 (yes, that is this Friday night-don't forget) to submit your one photo of your senior when he/she was a baby or toddler. All entries will then be uploaded on to the Kiki's Corner Photography facebook page listed under photos where the voting for the favorite, "That's My Senior" will take place.

All in the Details:

Email your cutest baby/toddler photo to Kristi {kristi@kikiscornerphotography.com}, put "That's My Senior" as the subject and attach your photo. Please also make sure to tell us the name you use on FaceBook so that we can appropriately label and tag the photo entries when we upload them to FaceBook.
In your email please include your first and last name and the first and last name of your senior. (Following FaceBook rules and regulations, entries may not be collected via FaceBook and winners may not solely be notified via FaceBook).

After we receive your photos, we'll upload them to our "That's My Senior," contest album on FaceBook. (Please allow 2 days for your photos to be uploaded).

Beginning, Monday September 5th, 2011, after you see your photo appear in the album you will then be able to "share" the link to your photo where it is located on our FaceBook Page and encourage your friends and family to vote for your senior by visiting Kiki's Corner Photography fan page, "liking" Kiki's Corner Photography fan page and "liking" your photo. Voting ends September 12, 2011 at midnight.

You may also blog about the contest and share the link to your photo, tweet about it, email the link to your friends and family and more!

The "That's My Senior," prizes for photos most votes are....

•Grand Prize: Free unique VIP Senior Photo Shoot valued at $800 with Kiki's Corner Photography {The Senior photo that receives the most "likes."}

•Runner Up: $100.00 Print Credit for future Photo Sessions from Kiki's Corner Photography {The senior photo that receives the 2nd most "likes."}

•(3) Random Winners will each receive $50 off their Senior Photo Session with Kiki's Corner Photography
{Based on the following additional methods of entry not on "likes."}.

Additional methods of entry?

1.(1) You automatically receive 1 entry for submitting a photo of your senior (baby/toddler photos only please-all others will be disqualified). Leave a comment on this blog letting me know that you did this (If you leave a comment as "Anonymous, please give your name in the comment so I know who to credit).

2.(1) You will receive 1 extra entry for becoming a Fan of Kiki's Corner Photography on FaceBook. {But only after "liking" my page and coming back here and leaving a separate comment telling me that you "liked" my page}.

3.(1) You receive 1 extra entry for signing up for Kiki's Corner Photography's newsletter {Make sure to leave a separate comment telling me that you signed up for the newsletter}.

Exceptions: Baby/toddler photos of Class of 2012 seniors only!!! Please, only enter this contest if you live in our area of Texas or are willing to travel to my little corner of the world. As much as I would love to visit you followers who live in Hawaii or Australia, or the Netherlands, I'm just unable to do that now....maybe someday. :-) Remember, these photos will be posted in Facebook, I will use your senior's first names in the captions, but remember they will be posted on the world wide web for all to see.
Winners will be announced on my blog, so be watching!

I think that is it for the fine print and details. What are you waiting for????

Waiting for Paisyn Part II (A Maternity Sneak Peek}

2011-08-27T11:11:00.000-05:00

I couldn't wait to find the time this morning to edit a few more of my "Waiting for Paisyn" maternity photos. The mommy-to-be is stunning and was game for anything even going to a vacant home out in a field. Her man was sweet to check the place for critters first~thank you!

A rustic place + a beautiful happy couple + golden sunlight = absolute delight! Thank you for the blessing of taking your mommy-to-be photos. I am so looking forward to meeting Miss Paisyn!

Waiting for Paisyn Part I {A Maternity Sneak Peek}

2011-08-26T19:01:00.000-05:00

I was blessed to take pictures of our neighbors who are anxiously awaiting the arrival of their precious baby girl Paisyn. What a blessing to get to spend time with this sweet family of two, soon to be three. Paisyn's mommy is absolutely gorgeous. I can only imagine what this beautiful baby girl will look like. I've had every intention of getting these posted way before now, but as you can tell from the previous posts, it has been a very eventful week.

I would love to show more, but I've got to get to a football game. I hope ya'll enjoy your sneak peek. Part two to follow soon:

Oh What a Night!

2011-08-26T07:08:00.000-05:00

After school, I headed home to change into my flip flops, shorts, and a t-shirt and to begin editing my remaining mini session pictures, a recent maternity photo shoot, and Holly's photos. I had just sat down at my computer when my cell phone rang. The picture on my Iphone said it was my Hannah probably calling to tell me that she was finished running cross country and decorating the gym for today's pep rally and to please come pick her up. Wrong!

One of my teacher friends was on the other line. I remember hearing something like, "Kristi! Um, Hannah cut her thumb helping us decorate for the pep rally and she is bleeding pretty bad; you might want to come get her." Oh no! I hopped in the suburban and drove like the wind to the high school. I followed the trail of blood to where Hannah was sitting down holding her thumb up in the air. Blood was dripping down her arms. She was bleeding so much, that I couldn't tell if she needed stitches or what to do so we headed to see Poppie (Mr. Incredible's dad).

He got the bleeding to subside just for a split second so that we could see that Hannah had cut the top tip of her thumb completely off. Instead of having a concave curve on the top of her thumb, it was now inverse (a little geometry~hope I used the correct terms) and cut pretty deeply....she did a fine job! There was nothing to stitch up, but we couldn't get the bleeding to stop!

I called the pediatrician's office who told us to get there as soon as possible and that they would be waiting! This momma's heart heard, "as soon as possible," so that is what I did. I hit the hazard lights on my suburban and made the normally twenty minute drive to the doctor's office in only fifteen minutes. I would have gotten there sooner but an undercover policeman pulled me over! The nerve!

I whipped out of my suburban before he could even pull his pants up on his way out of his unmarked police car. He muttered something about going nearly twenty miles over the speed limit and what was the problem, blah, blah, blah. Before he could finish his spiel, I retorted, "My daughter cut the top of her thumb off. I saw you following me for several blocks. I thought you might be helping me get to the doctor's office. If you are going to give me a ticket, then just give me a ticket, but I am going to get back in my car and get my daughter to the doctor that is waiting for us!" On my way back to the suburban he sarcastically said he would follow me there~he didn't believe me!

When I pulled in to the doctor's office, we parked, I went flying around to help Hannah get out of the car, and the policeman/jerk went running across the parking lot to see if what I was saying was true. I didn't let him touch my daughter. I looked him squarely in the eyes and said, "I need to get my child inside! Again, if you are going to give me a ticket then just give me a ticket!" He looked at me and smiled and said, "I need to talk to you so I will wait for you outside!" The nerve!

I took Hannah inside, checked her in and stayed with my daughter. The policeman could wait as long as he needed but I wasn't leaving Hannah! He waited outside the door of the doctor's office as if we were some high profile case. As we were taken back to see the doctor, we noticed the policeman got a call (maybe he was a detective, he was wearing a brown shirt and brown pants not the normal blue that I assume most policeman wear) so he hopped in his undercover cop car and pulled away!

Hannah's doctor was in rare form. He told her that she did a fine job on her thumb and to stay away from scissors. Then he had the nurse clean her up and told us goodbye. Hannah is still bleeding through everything that they are using to try to stop the bleeding...so we were both stunned. That's when the doctor laughed and said, "I'm kidding! No sense of humor today?" What?!

After we explained our week of taking Rachel to college and Mr. Undercover Cop in the parking lot, he laughed and then explained how they would stop the bleeding and he seemed a bit more on the compassion side. Oh, the jokes kept rolling (our normal doctor wasn't in the office yesterday afternoon) but that seemed to make Hannah feel more at ease.

No stitches, but the bleeding finally stopped and now she has a cool red thumb. Our school colors are red...she should fit right in at today's pep rally! (I snapped these with my Iphone-the quality isn't quite as good)

After leaving the doctor's office, we drove into this massive, boisterous storm! It was a bit scary for a while:

But, wait! There is more! Mr. Incredible was sweet to meet us at the doctor's office and once we got home volunteered to put our pizza in the oven. I think I must have had a crazed-stressed out look in my eyes. I thanked him for helping and then heard ca-splat! I turned around to see this:

Oops! I broke into hysterical laughter. I couldn't even help him clean it up...I was rolling on the floor laughing uncontrollably. What did my man do? He scooped it up, plopped it on a cookie sheet, and stuck it in the oven...5 second rule I guess! I'm thankful my floor was somewhat clean.

We enjoyed our floor pizza for dinner and then we heard the doorbell ring. My man said, "Come quick! There are cars everywhere. I think you just might be getting arrested." So funny! When we got to the door we opened the door to see the cheeleaders coming to check on Hannah and to bring her some flowers, a card, candy, sunglasses, and bandaids. So sweet!

After they left, we finished a craft project to send to Rachel (no, I didn't let Hannah use the scissors) and then we all fell into bed thankful that we survived the day!

Have You Seen

2011-08-26T00:00:00.002-05:00

...the Target Back to School Commercials? Oh, they are too funny! They remind me of the Staples commercials from last year. Anyway, this has been our first week with our students so I thought I would post these commercials for your enjoyment.

Many Firsts~School 2011

2011-08-25T10:12:00.002-05:00

What a week of firsts for our family! I am now the proud mom of two Freshman...Hannah is a Freshman in high school and Rachel is a Freshman in College! Be still my heart.

We always have a tradition of taking the first day of school pictures outside our front door. For the past nine years (in our current home) it has been both of my girls in their back to school pictures. This year it's a little bit different.

Here is my Hannah on her very first day of high school. She has reached the six foot mark, loves to wear converse tennis shoes, retro 80's shirts, hamburgers are still her favorite, plays the flute in the high school band, is excited about basketball season, and has just discovered why her sister enjoys wearing Tom's shoes (she rocked a pair of olive colored Tom's today). My sweet Hannah, please don't be in such a hurry to grow up...all too soon. We are so proud of you and I take great joy in being your momma!

Rachel's love for Tom's shoes rubbed off on Hannah and I this summer. We love what their company stands for. If you purchase a pair of shoes, they give a pair of shoes to a child that needs them. I wore a pair of Tom's wedge shoes my first day of school this year too. I fixed a large glass of PW's iced coffee and had my normal bowl of cereal before heading out the door.

There was a sweet note waiting for me at lunch. Rachel has a new Keurig coffee machine to take to college and she wanted me to try it when I got home for lunch. Her sweet note said, "Momma, try this! It's awesome! Hope you are having a good day. Love, Rachel." I am going to miss those sweet notes around my house!

Hannah's new backpack is pictured on the right and the photos on the bottom right are new for my classroom this year. I think standouts are my new fave. They don't require frames, they are light weight, and they make me smile every time that I look at my beautiful daughters!

Our first day at school was great, we enjoyed Rachel's favorite Tai food for dinner, and then tried to get some sleep for the next morning was Rachel's move in day. I sobbed myself to sleep that night.

We all woke up early to get the suburban and truck packed with all of Rachel's things. It was still dark when we left the house for our road trip to college.

A few hours later we arrived on campus. Rachel was beaming with excitement. There were in-coming freshman everywhere mixed with lots of vehicles filled to overflowing with belongings ready to move into the dorms. Our first stop was to check in, meet Rachel's "mom" for the week, register her vehicle with the campus police department, pick up the combination to her post office box, and finally check in at her dorm.

We made our way up the stairs as my mind flashed back to walking similair stairs on my very first move in day at Baylor. We opened the door to her room to see Rachel's roommate, Brittany and her family already inside. We love them already! Hannah says that her sister and Brittany, "are two peas in a pod" and I think she is right.

After visiting for a little while, we made our way back to the suburban where so many college ministers and upper classmen were waiting to help us move our daughter in. We literally only made two trips to the car and two trips up the stairs. Two very sweet guys carried the refrigerator up the flights of stairs as if it was nothing. What a blessing! I thought it would take us at least a dozen trips to move everything in...what a wonderful surprise!

We spent the next hour arranging Rachel's things and getting her room fixed up. We enjoyed a quick bite of lunch at Chick Filet, a quick trip to Walmart, because I wanted my daughter to have a rug for her room and a little valence for the window to make the room a little more like home. We got back in time to set those up before we headed to Parent Orientation.

At Parent Orientation, we learned all kinds of helpful things like giving our daughter the space that she needs to make a niche at the university and we heard encouraging words like, "let them have the freedom to text you and come home when they choose." They encouraged that taking these steps would make it easier for our students to find their way and feel plugged in while they were at school. They gave us an overview about what would happen at welcome week and that if we didn't hear from our child this first week, not to get our feelings hurt because they were going to keep them very busy.

When we arrived back at Rachel's dorm we found this:

The girls were giggling and having fun playing a game. Here are a few pictures of our daughter's very first dorm room. Love the priority of the Chi next to the coffee machine. Brittany and Rachel both enjoy coffee...so I know what to put in their care packages from home. Mr. Incredible was so smart to mount power strips to either side of Rachel's desk. We should buy stock in Command strips. Ha!

I love this picture of the two roomies visiting with little sister taking it all in.

We had dinner at Cracker Barrel, Rachel's pick, and then it was off to a Presidential social and to meet Rachel's family group for the week. Can you see Rachel (look for the pink arrow)? It was loud and crazy and filled with lots of happy students. It was a wonderful welcome!

A few more dorm pics :-) Rachel's decor is on the left, and Brittany's is on the right. Look how tall those beds are! We had to buy a step stool to make it easier to get in and out of bed. Ha!

Then it was time to say goodbye...the second most difficult time of my life! The first being watching them wheel Rachel around the corner for brain surgery. I knew then and I know now that I can trust God to take excellent care of our daughter, He somehow loves her even more than I do. But, I still wasn't ready to say goodbye.

God had helped me be brave all day long, I didn't cry at all...until Rachel cried when we said goodbye. I somehow managed to choke back the tears knowing they would be waiting for me when we got back in the car. I whispered in her ear once more that I loved her, I was so proud of her, and that it was time to soar! I didn't say goodbye, like we had agreed, I just said, "I'll see you soon, sweetheart!"

And then we watched her walk a few steps to her "family group" for the week. A few minutes later we were back at the car...and we all three cried most of the drive home. With every fiber of my being I wanted my man to turn the car around and go get our daughter...but I know this is God's plan for her precious life...this is right....I'm just ready for it to feel right. But in the mean time, I continue to trust and pray and find great joy in knowing how dearly loved she is by her family and her Heavenly Father.

I didn't hear from her yesterday, but I did get a text from her and a picture at midnight (I'm keeping my phone by my bed just in case). Her happy text said, "I love ya'll. I tell you all about my day hopefully tomorrow. Today has been so fun and crazy! I love you lots!"

And this momma slept just a little bit better after that. Oh, God is good, He is trustworthy, His plans are perfect, His love is fierce, He is a mighty tower and stronghold (our Masada), our strength during the difficult changes of this life, our joy, our future, and our hope. He is all sufficient....we are in good hands!

My Dearest Rachel

2011-08-23T00:00:00.002-05:00

As we take you to college for the first time today, I have to tell you that my heart is full of so many emotions and my mind is flooded with the most precious of memories. The tears are already flowing....just when I didn't think I had any more tears left to cry. I better make this short, if that's possible.

It seems like yesterday that I held you in my arms for the very first time. Oh, how I had counted the days until you arrived. I had dreamed of you (and your sister) my whole life. All I ever longed to be was a wife and a momma...of girls! And oh, how God blessed and blessed me with you and your sister! And you both are far better than my best dream on my best day!

You and I have shared so many "firsts." You are my first daughter, the first grandchild on both sides of the family, the first one to deprive me of sleep in the middle of the night (do you remember the song, "Sleep Sound in Jesus?" I think I sang that song to you in the middle of the night at least a million times...and even though I was tired physically, I wouldn't have changed a second of it. It was our secret time together and I treasured it all.

You were my first living doll to play dress up with. We were blessed with so many beautiful outfits, I could have changed your clothes five times a day and never run out. And you could rock those Texas sized bows!

First experience with pediatricians and evil nurses who gave you shots and didn't think twice about it hurting your feelings...or mine...and oh how I ached when you ached, cried when you cried, hurt when you hurt. I still do.

First ballet shoes, first dance recitals...you were the most beautiful one who knew every step and made sure your fellow ballet dancers did too. First day of Kindergarten. You were so brave...much braver than your mother. I'll never forget you telling me when I picked you up (I think I was at the school 30 minutes before it was time for you to go home because I just couldn't wait any longer) that you sat across from Jesus all day long. His name was actually pronounced Heysoos, but yes, your precious Saviour was with you all day long too!

First bed time prayers at the foot of your bed, first bed time stories...and then another, and another and, "Just one more please, momma?" First choir presentations, first solos, first "Santa Baby" performance in Mrs. Holland's class, first loose tooth, first lost tooth, first t-ball game (you always had a bow in your hair, even when you wore your baseball hat), first day of junior high (oh, your locker was so cool), first heart break (I still don't like that punk that broke your heart), first experience with band (my favorite saxophone player), first broken bone, first junior high dance, first basketball game, first day of high school, first driver's ed lesson and I was your teacher, first learner's permit, driving tests, passing and making it official.

First time to watch you drive down the driveway....on two wheels (don't know where you get your need for speed~ha!) and drive to the big city praying every mile that you drove that God would bring you safely home. First date, first prom, first solo in church, and so many more.

Seeing first-hand with my own eyes the very miracle that you are and rejoicing every day for your God-given health and His absolute mercy and grace over your precious life and your precious, precious head. I'll never stop praising Him for as long as I live.

And I pray that there are many firsts still to share...but this one today probably will never be my favorite. You see precious one, heart of my heart, I've dreaded this day since the day you began Kindergarten. This heart of mine knew that all too quickly you would grow up...I blinked...and here we are today. Butterfly kisses keeps playing in my mind...that and the Darth Vader march...I hope you are smiling reading that.

I am fully assured that the very One who asked us in 2009 if we believed that anything was too difficult for Him (Jeremiah 32:27) and if we believed that He was able to do this (Matthew 9:28) will be with you every step of the way. He will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19); He will be by your side every step of the way. Sweet daughter of mine, keep trusting in Him (Psalm 37:5) and depending on Him and together you two can accomplish the great things that He has planned for your life (Philippians 4:13).

And your daddy, sister, Granny, Grandpa, Nonnie, Poppie, Sissie, Uncle G, your Liebs, and I will be cheering all the way! We are so proud of the person that you have become. And while our hearts will miss you terribly, we know you are where God wants you to be and we trust His plans for your life. And we can't wait to hear all about them! Dream big, sweet child of mine...your Heavenly Father dreams big plans over your precious life!

And don't forget to call me every day....I'll be waiting by the phone....you know I will. So call me, okay? I'm still waiting??? Hello? Is this thing working??? Just kidding...sort of. I love you more than I thought was humanly possible...more than the fish in the sea, more than the stars in the sky, more than the songs the birds sing (remember this game we would play at night?). I love you, sweetheart. It's time to soar!

(I think I'll trade the Darth Vader march song for this one...oh how we love you!)

A Teacher's Prayer

2011-08-22T00:00:00.003-05:00

A Teacher's Prayer

Dear God,

A new school year is about to begin and my classroom door will soon open
to the students you've assigned to my care...
Open my mind and heart to each of them and especially to the ones
who will challenge me the most...
Help me challenge my students, all of them, to study, to learn, to grow in knowledge
and even a little wisdom...
Help me remember, Lord, how young my students are:
give me patience to help them grow up
and insight to know the help they need...
Help me to understand that sometimes my students may not understand me:
may I be clear in the things I say and do, and in how I say and do them…
My students don't know the burdens and worries my heart brings to the classroom,
so help me remember, Lord, how anxious and heavy my students' hearts may be...
Keep me from favoring any particular students, Lord, except for those who most need my help...
Let my decisions in the classroom be fair and just, honest and true...
Send your Spirit to fill me with gifts of knowledge and understanding, counsel and wisdom…
Lord, open my mind and heart to my students' parents, especially those who will challenge me the most...
Help me challenge parents to challenge their children to study, to learn and to grow...
Help me to teach as you would, Lord: help me be understanding when I need to be firm, gentle in all things,
and patient until the last bell rings…

A new school year is about to begin, Lord, and I wonder, what will you teach me today?

Amen.

(Taken from: ConcordPastor.blogspot.com)

August Children's Mini Sessions Part I {Sneak Peek}

2011-08-21T22:06:00.000-05:00

Saturday morning, Rachel helped me get ready for my first Children's mini sessions of the year. We had fun putting the set together outside and anxiously waiting for our young clients to arrive. Zeke's four beautiful children arrived ready to play in our tent, have a little pretend tea, and devour some cupcakes. Here are just a few photos from their session:

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And then it was time for these two little sisters. They weren't quite sure about taking pictures at first....

But, then we started playing and they forgot all about the camera:

And even gave me a smile or two that just melted my heart:

And who can resist a precious one and her blankie? Oh, so sweet! Please, don't be in a hurry to grow up too fast! And always hold on to your blankie.

I'll tell you a little secret. We have two very special blankies that belonged to two very special girls who are growing much too quickly tucked away in a special place at our house. They were once dearly loved blankies too.

That's all for now. I'll try to post more soon...but I have to get ready for my first day of the 2011-2012 school year. And my baby starts high school tomorrow! And then there is that thing I don't like to talk about called we are taking our Rachel to college on Tuesday. {Sob!} There will be lots of joy mixed with tears as we watch our daughter unfold a new and exciting chapter in her precious life.

Little Miss Holly-wood!

2011-08-19T08:03:00.000-05:00

Last night this sweet pea and I had so much fun feeding ducks, looking for a baby duck, avoiding ants, and talking about school and her best friend Ella-Bella. She wore the coolest feathers in her hair for our photo shoot and she had the wiggliest tooth that is so ready to come out. I can't get over how much she has grown since our photo shoot last summer. I loved every second. I hope Miss Holly-wood and her momma and daddy enjoy their sneak peek:

Last year, a little butterfly came to play during our photo shoot. This year, it was a baby dragonfly. Delight!

Another Commercial that Makes Me Giggle

2011-08-19T00:00:00.000-05:00

I love a good commercial and this one cracks me up everytime. It totally made me remember to pick up Doritos at the grocery store. We tried the new Stadium Nacho flavor~delicious! If you are ready for a little giggle, check this out:

And then go see my friend Kim for more Friday Funnies.

FIESTA

2011-08-18T00:00:00.003-05:00

Last week our school district along with community sponsors held our first annual Fiesta which stands for, "Family Involvement Encourages Students to Achieve." It was a sultry 106 degrees but so many administrators, teachers, school staff, community supporters, students and their families came to participate.

There were a lot of fun blow up games, a dunking booth with the head of the Athletic department in the booth, pinatas, food, books, snow cones, and informational booths. Here are a few pictures from the event:

One person explained that he was sweating so much, "He could grow rice." Ha! Yes, it was that hot, but what a fantastic first event!

I've Always Been a Bit Chicken....

2011-08-17T00:00:00.002-05:00

...to make Chicken Fried Steak! Really, I have. Ever since my sister-in-law and I nearly burned my house down when we were frying tortillas in oil on the stove (remember that, Melissa?), I've avoided frying anything in a skillet on my stove with anything containing hot oil.

Plus, our new house (new since the last frying incident 11+ years ago) has gas burners. So, I've always been afraid of trying that. I know, lame!

Last week, I thawed out some round steak to make a spectacular Swiss Steak recipe (thank you, Mom) in my crock pot. But, I forgot to put it in the crock pot that morning. Oiy! Ever been there?

So, my mind got creative and I came up with Chicken Fried Steak...and then I remembered it would involve a hot pan on my gas burners and smoking hot oil...and I nearly chickened out! I ran the idea by the girls and they were both willing to help. If you are going to burn your house down by cooking it is best to not do it by yourself. Ha!

So, after much prayer and a quick recipe from Pioneer Woman's cook book, we began the chicken fried steak process. It was fun and messy. I carefully watched my oil heat up, tested it with a little flour to make sure it was hot enough, debated in my head if it should actually catch on fire should I douse it with flour or baking powder or soda (I still don't know), decided to just put the lid on it and turn off the heat if flames ensued, and then carefully plopped in some finely coated round steak.

Twenty minutes later, we enjoyed the most delicious chicken fried steak complete with homemade gravy, homemade mashed potatoes, broccoli, and key lime pie. Yum! The best part? No out of control flames or calls to 911. Hallelujah!

Oh, Those Eyes!

2011-08-16T12:43:00.000-05:00

This week's theme is, "Eyes." My mind instantly thought of these gorgeous baby blues. This little guy is growing so quickly....and his eyes seem to get bluer and bluer. I can't imagine that he ever gets in trouble. One flash of those baby blues and it's over...maybe he will use his super powers for good, right Laci?

I Want to Be in the Light!

2011-08-16T00:00:00.000-05:00

The girls and I were working on dinner, when Hannah called my attention to the glorious light that was streaming through our family room windows:

It was glorious light. We all stopped for a few minutes to simply bask in the beauty of it. I smiled, and thanked the Lord for allowing us to see just a small glimpse of His glorious creations and thankful that we didn't miss it.

The light reminded me of the song, "I Wanna Be in the Light...as You are in the light. I want to shine like the stars in the Heavens. Oh, Lord be my light and be my salvation; all I want is to be in the light."

Oh, what a Savior!

Quick Mini Session Before School Begins!

2011-08-13T12:06:00.000-05:00

Oh, this Children's mini session is going to be so much fun! There are only 5 spots remaining and...
I'm giving one spot away! Yes, yes I am! If you are local, or are in close driving distance, please leave me a comment telling me you would like to enter either here or on my facebook fan page.

The styled photo shoot will inlcude a Girl's dream tea party (come dressed in your favorite tutus, dress up costumes, or finest tea party attire) and a fun Cowboys and Indians set up (bring your play guns-minus the amo please, and finest western or indian wear). Or you can just take photos around my garden and field if you like.

But, hurry! I'll be drawing the winner this Monday evening at 7:00 (cst). Good luck!

A Much Needed Reminder

2011-08-10T07:36:00.001-05:00

I read the newspaper yesterday while drinking my coffee and later that day I read USA Today on my Ipad. I tell you what: the news is depressing. Not just in our drought filled land, or even in our state, or our nation, it's all over the world.

Stories I read stuck with me throughout the day, unspeakable things that I read in the newspaper. While I was mulling over a few things from the newspaper, the Holy Spirit reminded me once again: This world may change, but He never does. Hebrews 13:8 say, " Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." Glory! He never changes....perhaps it's time this world got back to the basics...believing, praying, waiting on Him, going to church as a family, caring more about others than ourself, and even stepping out in faith believing with God all things are possible.

He is the only one that can fix it all....oh what a Saviour!

(I am linking this post up with Word Filled Wednesday today).

Summer is Quickly Coming to an End!

2011-08-09T00:00:00.000-05:00

It's true! Summer is quickly coming to an end. The other evening, my family was looking for a little snack, so I cut up the delicious watermelon I had waiting for us chilling in the refrigerator. I love watermelon! It is such a happy fruit. I love the bright red insides and the delicious sweetness....ah summer time! I put a little sea salt on mine to bring out the flavor. I always have enjoyed my watermelon that way. Do you? I know some people like to put lime juice on theirs or chili powder, but give me a little sea salt and I am happy.

I left the other half of the watermelon on my kitchen island just in case my family wanted any more. Mr. Incredible obviously needed just a spoon full....see the hole in the watermelon? But I loved how the light of the candle fell on the watermelon and so I snapped a photo. It kind of signifies the light of summer is quickly dimming and coming to an end.

Last week, I wasn't ready for summer to end...this week, I'm starting to get ready for school to begin. I've been dreading it mostly because Rachel leaves for college, but I might as well be getting my heart ready because like it or not, she will be going, and school will be starting soon.

Don't get me wrong, I am so excited for her newest adventure with the Lord. She will have so many amazing opportunities, and I will be excitedly waiting to hear about each one, I'm just not ready for this precious one to leave the nest. A new milestone in our family life for sure. But, it just came too quickly!

I am ready for routines again. I know our calendar will be quite busy with Hannah being in high school. Our days will be filled with cross country, band, basketball (yippee!), school, photography, etc. And part of me is longing for routine again.

It took me the longest time to find my groove and to embrace the ease of summer, but I have fully embraced it. I am so thankful to have had it, but I'm ready to do what God has called me to do. I'm ready to step into my classroom and see all that God has in store for me, for my students, and for my family this year. Are you getting ready for school? Are you facing any new milestones this year too?

Rio...with a Side of Nachos!

2011-08-08T07:50:00.000-05:00

Sunday night dinners around my house growing up were always relaxed. Sunday lunches, on the other hand, were magnificent! Picture delicious smells of a tender roast wafting through the air when we arrived home from church mixed with comforting smells of delicious baked rolls (Hannah likes to call them bread rolls), homemade mashed potatoes, and a special dessert all eaten around the dining room table....that is still one of my most favorite smells to this day! Sunday dinners (eaten at lunch) were the best....and they still are around my house if you ask my family....okay when I have gone to the grocery store and planned out the meals and taken time to actually make a Sunday dinner: I do like to go out for Sunday lunches too. :-)

And speaking of "dinner," do you call your Sunday lunches "Dinner," and your evening meal "supper?" Any other day of the week, my evening meals are referred to as "dinner," but Sunday lunches are special...so we call them "dinner." Confusing? Sorry!

Anyway, yesterday's Sunday Dinner consisted of a delicious brisket, mashed potatoes (I forgot to put them on before leaving for church so we used the dreaded instant potatoes...and they weren't too bad because we dressed them up with cheese and sour cream), Sister Shubert rolls (incredible!), broccoli, and chocolate cake (thanks Mom and Dad for blessing Rachel with a last day of work before college cake). Yum!

But Sunday evening was totally different. Our Sunday evening meal is normally, "You find it, you eat it." Which mostly consists of sandwiches or popcorn, but last night we had super nachos! Good, old fashioned, broiled in the oven, ooey-gooey, cheesy nachos. My family inhaled them. Me? I think I must have chapped my lips at Rock the Desert this weekend, because one bite of the delicious cheesy goodness, and my lips swelled up a bit. They were lovely, looked like collagen-injected mega lips....that hurt! Kind of weird. I drowned my burning lips in a piece of chocolate cake and they liked that much better. Ha!

And we watched the movie Rio together. Have you seen it? Oh, so cute. It was a fun, relaxed family evening at home....and I treasured every second.....except for the, "My lips are on fire moment...." because I know it will be all too soon (two weeks to be exact) before our daughter ventures off to college. Yes, these last two weeks are filled with Cross Country practice, band sectionals, band marching, shopping for last minute college things, and teacher inservice....but we will be making treasured memories in the process. Do you have special Sunday dinner/supper memories?

A Little Encouragement

2011-08-05T08:32:00.000-05:00

This is straight from Anne Graham Lotz's devotional The Joy of My Heart:

"All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made." John 1:3

God created:
atoms and angels and ants,
crocodiles and chiggers and clouds,
elephants and eagles and electrons,
orchids and onions and octopuses,
frogs and feathers and sea foam,
diamonds and dust and dinosaurs,
raindrops and sweat drops,
dewdrops and blood drops,
and me! And you!

The greatness of His power to create and design and form and mold and make and build and arrange defies the limits of our imagination. And since He created everything, there is nothing beyond His power to fix or mend or heal or restore!

I loved reading this today...and the reminder that God made it all and He can surely fix it all too, if He so chooses. The last week and a half has been filled with doctor's appointments, and it's been a bit exhausting and a bit emotional at times. A new doctor came in after reading my mammogram and exclaimed with no sense of compassion or concern, "We see something!" Thankfully, the Great Physician was right by my side whispering in my ear that we just needed to take a look through an ultra sound....and the Great Physician was right, as He always is. A very large fibroid cyst was the culprit, not a massive tumor like the new doctor suspected.

And being the Great Physician that He is, three cyst aspirations were performed that very same day, only five minutes later because the Breast Care Center's main doctor was there that day and he didn't want me to have to come back to Dallas. Oh, God is good!

In the last ten days, I've been checked out from head to toe, I feel every bit of my 41 years. I'm not use to being such high maintenance when it comes to my health...and I have one more doctor's visit to go. Naturally, this devotion spoke volumes to my heart this morning and I thought you might need to hear it too.

Yes, if God made it, He can surely fix it...what peace floods my soul this morning!

The Scholarship Dinner....

2011-08-04T00:00:00.003-05:00

...we nearly missed! Rachel was awarded several scholarships, thank you Jesus! If you have ever "helped" your child apply for scholarships, and by helped I mean find the available scholarships, made the copies of letters of recommendations, resumes, grades, checked off each individual scholarlships individualized detailed requirements, requested transcripts, and made sure it was all turned in on time. Whew! It is a monumental task, but one that is so worth it in the end when your daughter is awarded several scholarships.

The end of May became a complete blurr and I didn't give a second thought to the scholarships our daughter was awarded until last week. I woke up in a cold sweat thinking about the scholarships that were awarded and wondered if there was anything we were required to do.

And yes, yes there was still work to be done....things like sending in your college schedule to confirm that you were enrolled in a University, and a little thing called RSVP for a special recognition dinner.

The dinner was July 21st. The day I woke up in a cold sweat thinking about the scholarships??? July 20th! The date the college schedule was due???? July 15th. Oh no!!!

Come to find out, our daughter had been receiving all of the correspondance letters and had them neatly stacked in her room (I'm using the word "neatly" very loosely). She was saving them for I don't know what! We were sick that evening wondering if her scholarship had been forfeited. Needless to say, none of us slept hardly at all that evening.

I felt the Holy Spirit prompting my heart to have Rachel put on her big girl panties and call the scholarship coordinator first thing in the morning....surely she was not the first student to have missed a deadline. I think Rachel was scared to death, but she made the phone call...and everything turned out more than fine! Praise the Lord! The scholarships are still hers and we were still invited to the recognition dinner that evening.

There were other students there in the same boat. I am so thankful that we didn't miss it. We felt very honored to be there with so many parents and recognized students in our area. Here are a few pictures of the students that were also honored. The group is so large that the photographer had to stand on a massive ladder to get everyone in one photo:

And here is Rachel smiling ear to ear and Caleb too.

Needless to say, Rachel is writing a thank you note to the scholarship coordinator as we speak. Oiy!

Miss B and Her Little Sister Came to Visit

2011-08-03T00:00:00.002-05:00

A sister is a little bit of childhood that can never be lost.

-Marion C. Garretty

Yesterday morning, two sweet sisters came to visit Kiki's Corner Photography. We had the most delightful time playing in our tent and finding fun places to take pictures. Miss B is ten years old and has the most wonderful giggle and smile and her little sister is all of two years old and busy, busy. It was fun chasing these two girlies around and capturing their personalities. I hope their Mommy and Grammy enjoy their sneak peek!

In true sister style, Miss B sat in the rocking chair like this...and little sister, who was watching so carefully, climbed up in the other rocker and gave me the exact same pose, well, minus the smile...but that is pretty big stuff for a two year old. Love it!

Sisterhood is a special bond. Praying these two have many more special sister-moments to share!