Blake

It's definitely time for an update on our adorable nephew Blake.  And since I recently got to snap a few pics of their little family, I thought I'd also fill you in on how he's been doing.  You may remember back to this post I made shortly after he was born in November.  He has come so far since then, including undergoing open heart surgery on March 25.  He did remarkably well and recovered in record time, amazing the doctors and nurses with how quickly he was able to shake the tubes and IV.  Although recovery seemed to be a breeze for him, the doctor's also discovered his pulmonary (lung) pressure was very high, and did diagnose Blake with pulmonary hypertension.  There is no cure for PH.  He has since had to return to Children's Hospital for other checkups and tests related to PH to find the best treatment options available for this.  It hasn't been an easy road for this little guy, or his parents.  But man is he ever a fighter.  And his parents, well, their patience and trust in God is definitely something I look up to.  They are amazing people.  "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and
petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the
peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your
hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." - Phil. 4:6-7  Blake is such a joy and blessing to our family, the way his smile lights up any room is indescribable.  We love you so much little man.

Highroad Academy: Prom 2009

I had the distinct honor to be hired by Ang, and a group of her best buds to take photos for them on Prom day.  First I headed over to Ang's parents in the afternoon where her boyfriend Nick was there to pick her up.  Here, we took some more posed shots and family shots in her parents huge backyard.  It was a beautiful semi-overcast afternoon, although a bit windy.  I really love how these turned out.  I think it was a great idea to hire a photographer for this monumental day, to capture images Ang will be able to cherish for a lifetime.  I only wish I had thought of the idea back when I graduated!

After we were done at her parents, we headed Downtown to meet her friends.

We found an alley shielded from the wind, where we took some fun shots.

Another fun shot:
I just love, love her dress!

We spotted this school, which provided the perfect backdrop:

A little Old Skool:
Congrats Ang and the rest of the Class of 2009!

2009 Veggie Garden

Thanks for the encouraging emails and comments after my last post.  After an incredibly relaxing weekend, I am feeling much better today.  Today I'm going to share my quaint veggie garden with you.  After last year's failed attempt to grow a garden with my sister Rebecca, I decided to pursue growing my own veggie garden this time around.  I included lettuce, carrots, beans and cucumbers.  Lucas especially loves wandering out there every morning to see "how far the beanstalks grew".
In preparation of planting, I learned that certain vegetables don't like to be next to others via this website (scroll down to the section on "planting companions").  Since I'm very new to gardening, I spent time researching tips and successful planting strategies for the Pacific Northwest.  I came across Andrea's blog, which has tons of great information, all organic, from a Northwest perspective.

It's not always what it seems.

It might seem like I'm always super happy, positive, got it all together... or uh, maybe it doesn't - lol.  Well, if you think the former - guess what: not true.  Today was one of those not so great days.  Just not sure on a lot of things, my health hasn't been great lately, and the busy-ness of life is getting under my skin.  I need to take it slow and get some things figured out.  I admit I'm an all or nothing kinda gal.  I either go crazy and take it to the top, I mean why do something half-way?  It totally goes against my grain.  Somewhere along the line though, I end up crashing back down to earth.  Earth to Andrea.  You can't do it all.  (note to self: stop setting yourself up like this!)  So, I'm working on getting my focus back, why I'm here and what my purpose is.  And well, I can't think of anyone else around here who deserves my attention more than these guys:




Thanks for listening, and if you are interested in a photo session, I'm still taking on new appointments, just on a limited basis.  Just 'til I can get some stuff figured out.  Thanks.

Jenaya & Matt - Engagement

So I've been "away" for awhile... lots has happened in the few weeks, including five photo shoots, a trip to Edmonton, the biggest heatwave to hit the WestCoast since 1937, planting my very first veggie garden (more on that later), and some other random stuff..   so I am doing my very best to squeeze all the post-processing i can into the *wee* little free time i have.  To those of you eagerly awaiting your pics - thanks so much for your patience!

This photo shoot took place almost 3 weeks ago, Jenaya's Mom actually contacted me via email to set it up.  This was the first time i've ever done a shoot where i didn't meet my subjects beforehand.  I have to admit, it was exciting not knowing who was going to meet me at the park that day.  Kind of like a blind date i guess.  Jenaya did kindly give me a few tidbits of info about her and Matt, which was awesome.  One of the things she told me beforehand is that she paints for a living... and no, not like houses, she paints pictures.  How cool is that??  Pretty much the sweetest job on earth.  Well, besides taking photos of course! ;-)