Turnwall Family | Valparaiso, NE

“Family is not an important thing, it's everything.”-Michael J. Fox

I've decided family photos don't always need to be away from home.  In fact, I'd love to do more sessions just like this!!  When I showed up for the Turnwall family's session, we were about to head across town for their session.  But, lets be honest, why go to the hassle of driving someplace, when your home turf has amazing lighting AND an adorable front porch!? As we were loading in the car something in me jolted and I said something to the effect of: "You guys!  Let's not do this! It just isn't feeling right to me. I'm sorry. Let's just stay here! The light in your yard is dreamy and your porch is adorable. Lets just stay home!" At first they all thought I was insane and questioned, "Are you sure?" But when I assured them, they were so relieved. I'm glad I spoke up and trusted my gut!  Their backyard provided a great backdrop and when we moved to the front porch we were able to bring out the four-legged family members.  Personally, these speak to me.  Your home. Your front porch, is where your memories begin.  So, why not make photographs there too??  One of the cool things they told me as I was leaving was about how the house belonged to Kim's grandmother and when she was a little girl, Kim remembers her grandmother had hired a photographer to capture their family on these same front porch steps!!  I would LOVE to see these!! I'm glad she didn't tell me that ahead of time. I would've gotten wayyyy too nervous! ;) Thank you for being here! Enjoy a few photographs from the Turnwall family's at home session.

52 Weekends on Film Project Part One

“It’s only after you’ve stepped outside your comfort zone that you begin to change, grow, and transform.”-Roy T. Bennett

Here we are! A full six months into 2017! I just realized it last week! An entire six months!  Geesh!  I wanted to update you on my personal project that I'm excited about.

A couple of years ago I started a "52 Sat" project, where I captured my family every Saturday.  I was inspired by many photographers that have done the same and admired the memories they captured for their families to look back on in the years to come.  I decided to jump on the boat and give it a whirl! Because of that project, my first year of "52 Sat," I have memories printed that we cherish that I wouldn't have captured otherwise!  You should know, I never expected to finish this project. I thought it would be just another project I start and don't finish: something that I fizzle out of.  To beat that habit, I made my family's memories my top priority.  Whenever I wanted to quit or was completely unmotivated or uninspired, I would treat my family as if they were a client's family, and my entire attitude shifted.  When I finished my first year, and printed those 52 photographs into a super fancy schmancy album I was bursting with pride. When it came around to another January, I debated on continuing it.  I discovered I just couldn't stop. I was addicted. I loved what I was capturing for my family!  Since last year was a leap year, I called it "53 Sat".  Then this year, after diddle-dallying around with film during the "53 Sat" year and not feeling successful, I realized this was a sign.  This was my new path. Film was my new project.

I had multiple film failures early on. I  desperately wanted to commit to learning a new medium.  To really challenge myself as an artist, as a learner, as a photographer! Using different cameras and film I've been able to do just that.  It is exciting and thrilling and so suspenseful.  Suspenseful because I don't get to view what I've created until I mail it off, then wait ever so patiently for the lab to develop, scan, and send them my way.  When I get my scans back and I don't feel that sting of failure, I celebrate! I've even shot hybrid (digital and film) for a couple of my sessions recently and have been pleased with the results!  I have learned a lot about learning something new.  I firmly believe it is always good to be a life long learner.  To keep creating new wrinkles in your brain.  Film photography has wrinkled up my brain, and I'm not even halfway close to learning all I need to learn.  I've been beyond frustrated. Ready to throw in the towel. I question myself and why I have chosen to be on this path. And then, I stop, breathe, and just trust. Trust MY journey.  I can't compare to another. My journey is my own. And I'll get to where I'm going in my own time.

Thank you for being here, friend.  I hope you enjoy my 2017 on Film with my 52 Weekends on Film Project.

P.S. If you follow me on Instagram, I use the hashtag #ishootfilmoratleastitry because I shoot it...and it doesn't always turn out...but I shoot it! Ha!  Soon, I'm going to be sharing some of my failures. Because life isn't always perfectly in focus...so yeah...there's that...anywhos...enjoy!

Logan + Lucky | Lincoln, NE

“Happiness is holding someone in your arms and knowing you hold the whole world.”-Orhan Pamuk

The first time I met this little man, he didn't like touching the grass. He was so little!  Now, he is an active little man. Running! Exploring! Learning about our beautiful world!!!  While his family went on a walk he pointed out all sorts of things in his world, picked up rocks, and played in the grass.  He's growing up! I love being able to watch his family grow!  He is so loved.  At the end of my time spent with the Haney family, Sabrina asked me if I would mind taking some pictures of her with her cat.  This cat has been in her life for 18 years and been by her side through so much.  Sadly enough, shortly after this session, Lucky passed away.  My hope, in times like these, are that the photographs she has with him get her through those moments when her heart hurts the most. Thank you for being here. This is the Haney Family.

Ashley + Cara | Seward, NE

"Love is love is love is love is love is love is love is love, cannot be killed or swept aside,"- Lin-Manuel Miranda

I always try to find a quote that speaks on behalf of each couple, family, kiddo, or senior I have photographed. I search far and wide. I look through my quote books of quotes I've collected over the years. I also scour the internet. And to be honest. Lately, I continue to go back to this one by Lin-Manuel Miranda.  Ashley and Cara are getting married in 2017, and I can't wait.  I'll be there to capture their lovely day by their side.  These two ladies are so laid back and chill.  And spending time with their kiddos is always a fun time!  They get my corny jokes and they even laugh! Score! Thank you for being here, reader friend!  This is Ashley and Cara and their adorable family...

Martin Family | Seward, NE

"It is a happy talent to know how to play."-Ralph Waldo Emerson

When I meet families like the Martin family I always pinch myself.  A family that sincerely knows how to play together and enjoy each other's company.  I love the energy where everyone is completely committed to each other.  Meeting families like this one makes you look at your own interactions and think, "Am I doing it right?"  The Martin family was a blast to chill with, capture giggles, play time, and snuggles. Thanks for being here, dear blog reader!!  This is the Martin Family...

Haney Family in the Fall | Lincoln, NE

“I sustain myself with the love of family.”-Maya Angelou

This adorable couple has a little boy that is full of life and spunk.  He is growing up all too quickly.  I had a blast hanging out with them again. You know, back when fall weather was gorgeous, you could feel the sun, and all you needed was a sweatshirt and jeans and you were good!  Their little boy is such a charmer. Such a daddy's boy.  Such a sweetheart.  I can't wait to watch him grow up!! Thank you for being here!  This is the Haney family...

Olson Family | Lincoln, NE

““If you have good thoughts they will shine out of your face like sunbeams and you will always look lovely.”-Roald Dahl

Snozzcumbers and whizpoppers.  One of the things I love most about meeting new people is discovering what you will bond over.  With the Olsons we bonded over our love of Roald Dahl. He's one of my most favorite authors and theirs too! At the time they were right in the middle of reading The BFG and one of the ways little Miss C's mom was able to get her to smile and giggle for pictures was to use Roald Dahl's silly vocabulary like "snozzcumbers" and "whizpoppers."  This adorable little family is so much fun to be around.  I loved every minute of it! Thank you for being here. This is the Olson family...

Anderson Family | Seward, NE

“Nothing is ever really lost to us as long as we remember it.”-L.M. Montgomery

The Anderson family was recently saddened by the sudden loss of Brock's dad.  They wanted their family pictures this year to reflect the love and memory of their dad and Papa, by wearing plaid.  You see, he was known for always wearing a plaid shirt. Always! So, they all sported their finest in remembrance.  They also were very thoughtful in requesting a special place for their family's photo session. It's not just some random bridge that photographs well. No. It is the bridge that Brock used to fish off of when he was in high school. The bridge that when he fished, he used his dad's fishing pole without his permission.  The bridge that he accidentally dropped his borrowed fishing pole from and had to jump off of to retrieve.  This bridge, the river, and the plaid help contribute to a loving memory of their dad and Papa.  Anderson family, know that you've been in my thoughts and I am so honored that I was able to capture this time in your lives for you. Thank you for being here. This is the Anderson family...

Leffers Family | Malcolm, NE

“Some things scratch the surface while others strike at your soul.”-Gianna Perada Carini

The Leffers Family recently moved to this amazing country home!  They were very fortunate in being able to purchase a home rich with their family's history.  I loved being able to roam their acreage and the feeling of utter relaxation take over.  Their amazing pond. The views! The aronia berry bushes they harvest each year. Their view of the sunset they can enjoy. My list can go on and on!  The thing I love most for them with their new home is that it is allowing them to create more of their own family history and memories there. Thank you for being here!  This is the Leffers Family...

2nd Birthday | Papillion, NE

"It's my party and I'll cry if I want to."-from Lesley Gore's album I'll Cry If I Want To

She's two. She's feisty. She's amazing. She's so loved.  Bree is a special girl to SO many people and I was so honored to capture her in all her spontaneity for her second birthday portraits.  I got to capture her with her adorable family before her birthday party, and then I also got to capture her at her party.  Who doesn't love a princess bounce house?! Sign me up!!  Enjoy Miss Bree's 2nd birthday adventure that had us all ending with a good ole nap! :)

Gratitude Project

Grat·i·tude, noun the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.

My best friend has always been someone that pushes me to be my best. She encourages me to do what makes me happy. She assures me I haven’t screwed up my kids (too badly) when I’m having a “mom moment.” She’s been there for me through thick and thin. She is also an amazing and talented creative girl boss! So, when I saw this idea pop up on her business feed, I thought I would love to do something like this on my own page! Luckily, she is okay with me sharing this idea with you all! Spread the love, as she says!

This is a crazy time of year. I mean, didn’t we just survive Halloween?!? And now we have Thanksgiving to look forward to. I love Thanksgiving! I love that it makes me stop and think about who and what I’m truly thankful for. I know how my life gets so crazy busy that I tend to forget about what life is really all about. If you're anything like me, you have to stop and really evaluate life, sometimes. Enter the Gratitude Project!

What I’ll do is post what I’ll call a gratitude pause on my Facebook page, a couple times a week (pay attention, maybe set your FB to set notifications to remind you!). A time for you to really examine your life and share your own gratitudes. For each gratitude pause that you participate in, your name will be entered into a drawing for a free family documentary session with the winner drawn on Thanksgiving Day!

Feel free to tag or share with friends you think might be interested! I look forward to seeing what you are grateful for, getting to know you better, and to see you all encourage each other to live with a grateful and purposeful heart during this month!

Christensen Family | Seward, NE

“There are many forms of love as there is moments in time,and you are capable of feeling them all at different stages of your life.” -Shannon L. Alder

The last time I was fortunate enough to capture the Christensen girls they were so much smaller, so much younger, just little girls, really.  That was only a couple of years ago!  And now, here they are, little women.  They're growing up so fast and I'm sure their parents agree that just yesterday they were little babies.  Spending time with the Christensen family was a lot of fun. We explored their property and were even joined by their calves that act like little puppy dogs!  Spending time with families in their element, being casual and relaxed are my favorites! Thank you for being here!  This is the Christensen family...

Lauren and Jeremy | Wedding | Elgin, NE

"I do!"Lauren and Jeremy Borer

Remember Jeremy and Lauren's romantic and adorable engagement session?  Well those two lovebirds are now married!! Their wedding day was a day filled with love.  First, for each other.  But also for their lovely family and friends that witnessed their union.  These are two of the most selfless people you'll ever meet.  They were constantly asking about everyone else and making sure their guests were having fun.  They've got hearts of gold, I tell you. Genuine gold.  Congratulations to Jeremy and Lauren, the new married couple!  I am thrilled for you and was absolutely honored to be able to capture your big day. Thank you for being here!  Enjoy Lauren and Jeremy's wedding day...

Thelen Family | Randolph, NE

"You can't have the family farm without the family."-Gilbert K. Chesterton

Being in Randolph, you're in the heart of small town Nebraska.  There are beautiful rolling hills of picturesque farmland surrounding you.  Big open skies as far as the eye can see.  Old barns, equipment, and lots of cows!  Kelli and Ted showed me all around Ted's family's farm.  I learned all about the history of the farmhouse where his grandparents raised his parents, the barns, and the property itself. There is something so honorable to me about a family keeping a farm in the family for generations.  The richness of history there.  The memories that the family has preserved.  The love of the land passed down.  And it continues!  These two have an adorable little family with Miss K enjoying their attention.  Miss K loved to point out all her baby cows.  She is two and gave me an education. Miss K has got some fun spunkiness in her spirit.  I enjoy seeing her grow up since capturing her last fall around this time.  She has grown so much.  Being able to witness her grow up and capture her moments along the way, warms my heart! Thank you for being here!  This is the Thelen family...

Deterding Family | Lincoln, NE

“Summer will end soon enough, and childhood as well.”-George R.R. Martin

When Mandy contacted me to capture her three kiddos' summer portraits and their family photos, she had asked me for some direction on what type of activity I should capture for their session.  I love being able to help clients zero in on these decisions.  Why? Our normal day to day life, we assume is boring. But in actuality it is so fun, exciting, and refreshing, really. And sometimes, I feel that when we see these photos we become that outsider and realize our lives are way more cool than we thought.  After viewing your photos, you get the chance to pinch yourself and think about what a wonderful life you have. I asked her to think of her favorite summer activity that she and the rest of her family cherish and look forward to. A memory that they will all reminisce on during the dead of winter when everyone is desperately wishing it to be summer again.  She shared with me that every Friday summer night they do s'mores around the fire and popcorn in the popcorn popper.  What a fun family tradition!!  Can I live at her house?  I was delighted in spending time with the Deterding family. Just sitting back watching them do their family thing.  No direction. No posing. Just them. They were so relaxed. So loving. And genuinely so fun to be around. Mandy and Mark are raising three smart, energetic, and hilarious kids that definitely are enjoying their childhood.  Those kiddos are so loved and so cherished. Thank you for being here!  This is the Deterding family...

Eber Family | Seward, NE

“Love doesn't make the world go 'round; love is what makes the ride worthwhile.”-Shannon L. Alder

I loved getting to hang out and play with Amy and Rich's fun family.  They're such a close knit family. So loving and supportive of each other. So silly and giggly.  So genuine and up for adventure.  It seemed like every time I turned my back there was someone lovin' on someone and I was lucky enough to not only witness it but to capture it, more importantly. The way little Nicholas adores his mama.  What mama doesn't want their little boy grabbing their face and bringing it in for a big ole smooch?!  Swoon.  And the little secrets Jolie and her dad were sharing almost made it seem like our time hanging in the trees was magical. Double swoon! Thank you for being here!! This is the Eber family...

Jeremy + Lauren | Engagement | Elgin, NE

"Love just happensWhen you are not looking for it, Not paying attention, Unaware. You could miss it the first few times, But then, unexpectedly, Somehow this invisible magnetic energy Pulls you and another person together. And you feel this beautiful magic, Like a gravitational force - As if the moon were kissing the sun. And their name, Becomes the most hypnotic name And you die to see their eyes When you open yours Every time." -an excerpt from "Love Just Happens" written by Suzy Kassem

Mutual friends of Lauren and Jeremy's know the two of them very well. So well in fact, that they decided they just had to meet each other.  They set up a double date for them to meet each other.  Then on their own they decided to go out on a few more dates and then a few more...and then a few more...and then came a pivotal time in their relationship.  It was time for the next step.  Things were getting serious.  It was time he met Lauren's daughter.  Lauren was very careful about introducing Jovie to Jeremy, she didn't want her to meet him too soon and chance her heart to get broken.  But as soon as the two met each other Lauren saw how well they interacted and instantly didn't worry anymore. She didn't worry about a-n-y-t-h-i-n-g anymore.  This fit. Lauren saw how Jeremy became such an amazing father figure to her, and in those moments she knew he was a keeper.  He was the one.  Not only for her. But for Jovie, too.  When Jeremy proposed to Lauren she was elated.  Their love for each other is so evident and beautiful.  I am so happy they found each other. Thank you for being here!  This is Lauren and Jeremy, engaged...

Surprise Proposal | Junto Winery | Seward, NE

"YES!!"-Claire Miner

The night that Claire and Josh met, Claire was being approached by other guys left and right.  Luckily, to Claire's quick wit she was able to keep the other dudes away by telling them how she was engaged to Josh when in actuality they had just met. In fact, later that night he jokingly proposed to her and the rest has been history.  The next day Josh was talking with a buddy and Josh, so mesmerized by Claire, told his friend, "I'm going to marry that girl someday."  They kept in touch after their first meeting that night, did the long distance relationship thing, and then decided they couldn't live without each other. They needed to be closer to each other. Josh took a leap of faith, left his job in Minnesota, and made the big move to Nebraska to be with her. When Josh first met Claire's family it was at Junto Winery. So when he thought about where he wanted to ask the girl of his dreams to marry him, he couldn't think of a better place to do it.  Junto Winery was sentimental to them.  It just had to be there.  Josh meticulously, with thoughtfulness and romance in his heart, planned his proposal. They'd get to the winery, grab some wine, go on a walk to the garden area, propose, and then go back to enjoy live music and wine!  Little did Claire know that Josh had many surprises in store starting with a beautiful backdrop for her on their garden walk.  He swears he will never walk into a Michaels or Hobby Lobby ever again but pulled off one exquisite surprise.  He had picture frames from their dates, their initials, flowers, and an adorable sign.  But probably the most exciting for Claire, who is a HUGE Game of Thrones fan, was a personalized piece of artwork, he had created for them where they are dressed as characters from the show.  Between the excitement of the gorgeous ring and the artwork, he was loosing sleep!  Fast forward to the actual proposal, as Claire approached it she didn't realize the backdrop was for her until Josh stopped her and started spilling his heart out for her.  After he proposed he had one more surprise for her. Her family was waiting in the tasting room to be able to squeeze her and congratulate them.  Their love is so evident.  The way they look at each other, touch each other, and talk to each other.  Everything is done with love.  Congratulations, Josh and Claire!! Your love for each other is beautiful! Thank you for being here! This is Josh and Claire's proposal...

Bristol's Wish | Make-A-Wish | Rising City, NE

"Together is a wonderful place to be."-Unknown

Bristol is one heck of a fighter.  She's got the sweetest demeanor.  She's got the most supportive and loving family a girl could wish for.  And, she's got this really adorable friend named Piggy.  Piggy goes everywhere with her.  In fact, Piggy got lost in Boston one time and through the power of Facebook they were able to hunt down the hard to find Scentsy stuffed pig that Bristol adores.  If you've ever had that one stuffed animal or blanket that is your security, or have had a kiddo that needs it, you know how big of a deal it is that their loving friends and family have given them many backup piggies, just in case Piggy gets lost again.  Bristol is a sweet little girl that has been affected by Rett Syndrome.  When they found out that the hard working people at Make-A-Wish Nebraska were going to be granting a Wish for Bristol, her parents approached her with pictures from a Disney vacation or a backyard playground.  She chose the playground.  Would they have enjoyed the vacation? You bet!  But, Bristol will be able to join her family outside and be more active by having this amazing Backyard Playworld in her backyard!  Her family is looking forward to making many memories playing together in their very own backyard.  Bristol, it was a pleasure and an honor being there to watch your Wish come true.  Enjoy your playground, my dear!! Thank you for being here! This is Bristol's Wish...

If you want to read more about Bristol's story, click here.  The Columbus Telegram wrote an article about Bristol and her amazing family. Did you know that you can refer a kiddo to receive a Wish from Make-A-Wish?  Click here to checkout the Make-A-Wish website for more details!

Happy Birth Day, Broderick! | Lincoln, NE

"Aww!  Hi there, Broderick!"-Tasha and Andrew Hibbert

I was asked to witness and document an amazing thing.  The birth of a handsome, little perfect, healthy baby boy.  His name is Broderick Thomas.  His parents, Tasha and Andrew, have been in love with his name for nine years.  They have been saving his name for when and if they ever welcomed a son into our world.  When they discovered they were having a boy during Tasha's pregnancy they asked their daughter Braelyn to say his name out loud so they could hear it in her sweet voice.  "Who's in mommy's tummy?" they would ask.  "Baby!!" Braelyn would announce happily.  "What is your dolly's name?" they would ask.  "Brody!!!" Braelyn would exclaim.  So, as soon as they heard her voice say his name, they knew Broderick (also known as Brody) would be it.  When Tasha asked me if I have ever done something like this before, you know, watch another woman give birth.  I was completely honest with her and told her I have not, but I'd be game for the experience.  I mean, c'mon, I've pushed out three myself so it couldn't be that bad, right?! ;) Boy-oh-boy, it was amazing. Beautiful. And so precious.  There was so much love in her delivery room. Her nurses and her doctor at Bryan East in Lincoln, were ahhhmazing.  Andrew was so supportive and cried the sweetest happy tears throughout.  He jokingly told her to be done by a certain time so they could watch the College World Series with Broderick.  Somehow, her body responded and it happened!  Tasha was nothing short of Superwoman through her delivery. She labored and delivered beautifully.  Welcome to the world, Broderick! I can't wait to watch you grow with your loving family that has been so eager to swaddle you in hugs and kisses! Thank you for being here!  Enjoy the delivery of Broderick Thomas!