Goodbye, 2010. You've been good to me.

It's New Year's Eve. Already. The year has flown by, and I feel more than blessed to have been able to work with the clients I have.

I won't say much for this post, other than that I intended to keep it to about twenty of my favorite wedding and engagement photos from 2010. Clearly that didn't work out.

I cannot wait to dive head-first into 2011. My head is reeling with new ideas, things I want to learn, and challenges for my business. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to those of you who take the time to read this. It means so much to have your support.

Happy New Year.

The Stach Family

Linda's kids were all going to be in town. The same town. At the same time. And that's a big deal. For this  occasion, they needed a family picture, and I was so thankful that she called me to take it.

It was somewhat of a dreary day, and the temperature wasn't one that invited a drawn-out shoot. I think I could have worked with them for just a few hours longer, because I had the easy part (and mittens). On a hesitant count of three, fourteen winter coats were thrown into the designated area, just outside my field of view. Somehow, the smiles remained. 

Pete, Linda, and family, thank you for being willing to wear short sleeves in less than ideal conditions, for having such great attitudes, and for seeing the importance of togetherness. I hope you enjoy my favorites!

Alexander Family

It wasn't a warm day, like we had hoped. In fact, it seemed like the coldest so far, and pictures on the deck with a view of Harney Peak just weren't an option. But it didn't matter. They were together, and the view wasn't what was important.

I arrived before the grandkids, and felt welcome immediately. We decided on the fireplace as our backdrop, and I soon found myself surrounded with laughter from girls in hot pink shirts. They were excited, and shy, and hungry, and curious, and so very funny. And with the promise of warm brownies from Grandma, they behaved (and photographed) beautifully. 

Thank you Sherryl, Vic, Kelly, Jason, Stacia and Jason. I appreciate you for thinking of me to take your family pictures, for being such good sports, for finding those adorable pink shirts, and for saving me a brownie.

It's the Hap-Happiest Season of All...

I love Christmas. LOVE. That's right. Capitals and bold, together in one word.

Our tree this year has more lights than branches, but I adore the old fashioned feeling of a tree with imperfections. It makes me want to watch Charlie Brown and string popcorn and cranberries like they did on The Waltons, where every Christmas was the best ever. 

My always patient, saint-of-a-mother let us string popcorn one year, and it was only a slight disaster. My older brother Cole's was crafted perfectly, and well deserved the oohs and ahhs it received as he wrapped it around the tree. Being the wizard that I am with a needle and thread, I somehow turned mine into more of a cluster (yes...as in grapes), and it was hung as an ornament somewhere near the back. I will try again someday, and will not feel too badly if my skills have not improved. Heaven forbid they haven't, considering I was five.

I have much to be thankful for this year. God has blessed me with a happy marriage, a supportive family, unbelievable in-laws, new clients, and creative challenges. I have a few ideas to kick-off the new year, and will share those as they unfold.

In the meantime, we will make plans to travel with family, scramble to find gifts, and enjoy the season. My heart this time of year is so full that it could burst at any moment. I think this is probably how those Waltons felt.

Gift Certificates

Need a unique gift idea?

Consider a gift certificate for portraits. Your gift of any amount can be used toward prints, high-end albums, fine art canvas wraps, or session fees. It can be redeemed anytime of year, making finding time for photos especially convenient.

Great for families, expecting mothers, brides-to-be, or existing clients!

Email me at jessica@js-p.com to purchase.