Sweet Whispers Photography Blog

BIG ANNOUCEMENT!!!

2008-06-28T22:26:00.002-04:00

It's been a long time coming - and there are still a few things to work out - but I'm SUPER excited to announce the first of the business changes coming over the next few weeks.... the big announcement is MY NEW BLOG!!!

It's brand spakin' new -still has the 'new car' smell! I am getting used to a few of the new controls on the admin side - but I am super excited about this jump. I will be able to do a lot more that I've been hoping for and with much less frustration! It was an adjustment when I switched from Jacksons blog to just the business blog but PLEASE update your bookmarks and rss feeds now! I am guilty myself of reading a 'new address post' and then forgetting to update it on my google reader (which i LOVE by the way! and if you dont have it you need to go get it right now!)

I am so blessed to have so many people checking in on our family and our business. I can't wait to see what lies ahead for the next year for us.. It's going to be so exciting!

So don't miss it - jump to the new adventure with us - See you on the new blog!!!! And dont forget to leave us comment love-- we LOVE comments!

the new blog address is here:
Sweet Whispers Photography NEW blog

and in case you wanted to type it in:
www.sweetwhispersphotography.com/blog

Love to you all...

Blessings,
Keri :)

memories.

2008-06-27T22:54:00.001-04:00

I love spending every single day with him. he is the light of my life. every single day is a new adventure and he is always fascinated by the smallest stuff... one of the small things that is my favorite is when he gets his jammies on and runs as fast as his little legs can go into our bedroom and climbs up on our bed saying 'shunggle mama, shunggle' - he takes his green lovey (frog) and chews on the tag as we get cozy under the covers and watch a few minutes of 'the goodnight show' on sprout tv. (pbs) the smell of his clean little body after his tubby, the sound of his little short breaths, the way he looks at you out of the corner of his eye to make sure you're still 'shunggling,' the way he giggles when you sneak a kiss, the way he lets you hold him, rub his back or his legs gently and fights to stay awake because it always puts him to sleep, and of course, the smile on his face when you ask if he wants a piggie back ride into his room! those are the little moments- the moments that happen all within 2 minutes. the moments i dont ever want to forget. the moments that make my grateful for being his mommy.

these pictures are so far from perfect but they are exactly perfect for my heart. his little face with his lovey (tag and all!) and of course a self portrait of us together..

i love you jackson david. thank you for being such an amazing soul...

mom

new video!

2008-06-26T20:52:00.003-04:00

Marc, Jerry, Chris, Richard, & Benj -- We are so proud of you guys!! We love the new video! Jackson loves to dance to it and when it comes on he says 'Yay Uncle Marc Song!" Can't wait to see you guys in a few weeks!

lots of hugs!!
xoxox

to watch the video for the song- click below:

'Shattered' by O.A.R.

Now go request "Shattered" by O.A.R.. on all your local radio stations!!

this is awesome...

2008-06-25T08:14:00.002-04:00

huge sap over here.. made me cry a little.. but its such a very cool thing!!!

check it out:

Where the Hell is Matt? (2008) from Matthew Harding on Vimeo.

Strawberry Pickin'

2008-06-21T15:33:00.003-04:00

what a fun afternoon!

I woke up this morning and decided to search around for something fun to do today with the Jack-man. Since I usually book sessions on the weekends, its very rare that I actually have a weekend day off to do something! So I scanned around a few websites and then I saw that it was a strawberry festival at a local orchard! How fun!!! I went strawberry picking when I was younger with my grandmother but haven't been in years. I forgot how fun it was!

Jacksons loved strawberry picking...(read: strawberry SQUISHING!) but it was definitely fun and a perfect day to spend a gorgeous day outside

We recruited MiMi and Kelly to come along for the fun too... Jackson was psyched! When we got there there was a folk band playing for the kids... of course Jackson had to stop for a little boggie action!

Then the main event.. nope, not strawberries- the TRACTOR HAYRIDE! We could have just circled the whole place on that all day and Jack would have been more then happy! He had to watch everyone get on... as he was yelling to everyone 'TRACTOR!'

This was his view:

Once we got down to the strawberry patch he was excited once I started to tell him we were going to get berries! One of his favorite things! So here he is checking out all the people already picking..

This was what we started with....

and maaaaybe we had a few snacks along the way...(despite the DO NOT STEAL BERRIES sign!! -- OOPS!)

bite size!

gotta find just the right one!

no, those hands dont say guilty or anything!!!

this is what we ended up with :)

Jackson couldn't get over his red hands- not only his red hands but MiMi's red hands too!!!

All tuckered out in the stroller ready to head back... strawberry lips and all! (why does he move his hat to the side?? i have no idea?? but it drives me crazy!)

just a few baby berries...

the rows and rows were never ending!

and what a fitting way to end the warm strawberry picking day.... well a strawberry frozen yogurt popcile of course!

Such a funny guy.. we had so much fun... needless to say he's exhausted!!! All that berry pickin' wipes ya out!

now what to do with all those berries????!!

Hugs,
Keri

yellow digger

2008-06-20T17:10:00.005-04:00

would you like to know jacksons favorite pass time? that would be staring out the window at the YELLOW DIGGER across the street. Who knew all you'd have to do to have hours of entertainment is to just park ourselves outside on the steps or by the front window inside to watch all excitement!

uncle randy got jackson this ROCKIN' yellow digger for his birthday. we have driven by it for months now and every time we pass the boutique toy store we talk about how cool the diggers and outdoor toys are there! Silly Goose has the coolest toys! Good thing its only a short walk in the stroller away!

at any rate, uncle randy had rick pick this up for him since he's been eyeing it for a long time now... and BOY did he score big with this one!!! papa took it yesterday to put it together (because mommy wasn't doing that anytime soon!!) and when papa brought it back today jacksons face lit up like a christmas tree! I brought the camcorder around and taped that so hopefully I can get around to posting his little face on the video sometime soon as well. Needless to say, he's been on that thing from the second it came back to our house.. well, its a toss up between looking out the window at the REAL digger, and playing on this one!

checkin' out the real digger...

i'll let the images speak for themselves.... notice right in the middle the 'i can't do it - the world is over' face he makes to try and get someone to help him... notice how fast the recovery too! little booger!!

his favorite thing to do is to pull the pin out from the wagon and put it back in - the back wagon can come off... go figure!

lovin' his life!

in case you missed that last one - check it out a little bigger... think he likes it!?!?! :)

after all that 'diggin' jackson worked up quite a thirst...

but wait- thats a juicebox he was holding!... oh yes, look closely on his arm.... do you see it???

yes, those water droplets are JUICE which he SQUEEEEEZED out all over the place - making mommy scream as we were both getting covered in motts for tots juice.... but that scream from mommy produced this hysterical smile so it was worth it!

(thinks he's sooooooo funny getting mommy covered in juice!... betcha can guess how fast that came out of his hands!)

After all that fun, it was time to go burn some energy off... we headed outside for a bit but first- gotta put your 'uncle marc hat' on of course!

uncle marcs hat. thats what jackson has named this hat.... why he calls it that i have no idea-- all i can think of is that he remembers seeing uncle marc in the same kind of hat??? who knows with that silly boy!

whenever we're getting ready to go outside to play he says 'sunscreen, uncle marc hat please'.... thats my boy!!!

oh and in case you wanted to know - chocolate covered pretzels melt very quickly in little hands...

but man that face is good enough to smooch!

thanks for checking in...

love him!

Jackson loves the new O.A.R. song!

2008-06-18T18:54:00.005-04:00

check out O.A.R.'s new single on itunes... its called Shattered.

as you can tell, Jacksons a BIG fan!

early morning sunshine...

2008-06-18T16:01:00.002-04:00

got to play in the early morning sunshine with this cute little face that could just melt your heart!

she was a champ and rocked the session like she was a super star!!

thank you guys for hanging out so early last weekend -- I can't wait to show you the rest-- in the meantime, here are a few favorites for you to get you through! :)

Big Hugs,
K
xoxo

i LOVE this one of mom and Ms. Q!

you can almost hear the giggle with dad!!

:)

Cutie Pies

2008-06-18T15:57:00.002-04:00

Tell me you don't want to scoop these guys up and just tickle there little faces!!!

I love when I get the chance to see my clients (kids) grow and change. I photographed Mr. N when he was just a few days old last year.. now check him out!! what a little ham, I tell ya!

And don't be mistaken - his big sis is JUST as much of a ham... mention the world ice cream and this is the face you get!

but with such good looking parents how could you not have super cute kids!!!

loved hanging with you guys again - as always it was so much fun! I'm so sorry your sneak peak took so long - I promise to have your gallery up soon!

Big hugs,
K

***On a sidenote....... I say it all the time but if you work with a photographer that your kids come to know and like - stay with them! it makes for much more fun pictures and the kids tend to be much more comfortable since that photographer is 'familiar' :)

oh so patient clients!

2008-06-18T15:55:00.003-04:00

I have the best clients ever. Not only because they have the cutest kids but because they are all just so fun to hang with!!

These two clients have been SO very patiently waiting for their sneak peaks and I am so sorry its taken a bit longer then normal.. The days have escaped me since the weekend but I finally had a chance to get your sneak peaks up!!

I hope you like 'em!

xoxo
k

my excuse.

2008-06-17T10:51:00.003-04:00

just in case you were wondering why the posts aren't as often and you needed a reminder. :)

not enough hours in the day! and being pregnant makes for a lonnnnng to-do list!

posts are coming i promise. and fun of business announcements!

just one..

2008-06-13T20:54:00.001-04:00

i love him.

sticky lollipop and all.

he's the best.

sweet baby boy...

2008-06-12T20:27:00.003-04:00

want to see one of my favorite newborn shots ever?... don't say i didnt warn ya - as soon as i snapped the shutter i knew that one was a keeper ;) its suppper cute!...... with a beautiful mom like this - and such a handsome little man.. how can you go wrong!

can you even stand the cuteness really?!! check out the smile and those DIMPLES!

and just when you can't take anymore, you have to take another nap!

its so tough being a model at just 16 days old!

thank you so much for letting me play today! you were AWESOME and such a trooper in the heat and all!! i can't wait to show you the rest but i had to share these as i fell in love with them when i saw them -- i hope you do too!!

mom and dad -- many blessings on your new baby boy - he is beautiful!!!

hugs,
keri

welcome to the world ms. emma!

2008-06-07T22:15:00.003-04:00

what a little peanut!! i got to hang with baby emma and her big bro today... i just wanted to scoop her up and bring her home!

i'll let this face speak for itself!

i just LOVE how squishy they are when they are only 5 days old!!!

wonder where she gets her good looks -- just check out her beautiful mommy!!

smooooches from mom! :)

so so so happy for you guys!! can't wait for all the kids to grow up together!! we love you!!
oxox
k

Holy Update Batman!

2008-06-05T15:08:00.002-04:00

Get ready. And don't say I didnt warn ya. I know I've been promising pictures of all the happenings lately and I finally got a few minutes to pull some from our adventures... so brace yourselves... theres a lot of images to follow.... :) I'll leave the typing to a minimum as I know you really only want to see the pictures anyways!

A few sidenotes:
-there will be some fun business changes in the next few weeks.. also a special coming so watch for that too!
-jacksons birthday letter entry will be posted soon too
-i will also post updates on the events that follow these (i.e. Denise and Ed's wedding I got to shoot last weekend, Jacksons 2nd birthday bash etc...)
-and for those of you who have asked, yes, i'll post some baby molly updates soon too!

I love shot of Grams and Jackson - When Grams was here, Jackson just couldn't get enough of her -- They were giving each other kisses and giggling like crazy!

we headed to the apple orchard which also has animals that you can feed - Jackson loved showing Grams all the animals he knows!

trying to get some bird to come out!!

feeding the goats

trying to talk to the turkey!

hahaha! this shot makes me laugh out loud- he was 'ba-ba-ing' like a sheep but they were just staring at him!

the next day we went to the Museum of Science in Boston. Can you guess what Jackson's favorite part of the whole day was???

in the butterfly garden room... so cool! he had to point to every butterfly or 'pillah' (caterpillar!)

DO YOU SEE THE COCKROACHES BEHIND HIM IN THE CASE!??!?! EEEEEEWWWWWWWWWW!!!

DINOSAUR!!!!!!!!!!!! Mr. T-Rex was a HIT!

He is huge!!

He looooves that T-Rex, he didn't want to leave him!!

The next day - we spent the day with Mi-Mi and showed Grams around town... Jackson's favorite spot is to stop in when we're out for a walk to visit with his buddy's at the fire station... they let him just hop right up and sit in the trucks and everything! He thinks he's the KING!! check it out...

After Grams had to go back home we headed up to North Conway for a quick weekend getaway ... We headed right for the train station so Jackson could see them all.... Talk about excited!!

Touching "Emily" (his favorite Thomas the train engine- its green and looks like this train! he was nearly jumping out of his skin when we were so close! haha!)

It got a little cold so we headed back to the hotel for Jackson's first swim!! He has been in a pool once before but he was only 8 months old.. what a deprived child, right!!! Think he liked it?! :)

After the swim we needed a snack... and whats better then your first trip to Cold Stone Creamery- first time for me and Jack!

Guess what kind Jackson had!

We headed back to the room to hang for a bit..
why not have some cookies after that ice cream too! after all it IS vacation!!

on the other side of the camera with my boy for once!!

what happens when you find the snacks from the breakfast buffet and try to sneak them after the ice cream and cookies? you climb into your pack and play and pretend nobody can see you!!

Whew!! Just in time... someones waking up from their nap!!! More updates to follow!!!

Hugs,
K

My how time flies....

2008-05-30T07:40:00.002-04:00

Grabbed a few shots at the park yesterday for the birthday party bash on Sunday... He looks SO big to me in these pictures!!! They stopped me in my tracks when I opened them - I guess my little baby is really growing up to be a handsome little boy! Good thing there's another baby on the way to calm that baby fix ;)

Love you with all my heart Jackson,

Mom

this is the face you get when you see the train going buy -- "Listen" he was saying..."I see Emily and Thomas!"... silly boy!

so busy and so behind on blogging!

2008-05-28T21:04:00.002-04:00

not even sure where to begin!

It's been a crazy last few weeks... Grams came up from Florida to visit and we took HUNDREDS of picture while she was here! Jackson had the time of his life showing Grams the orchard with the animals, the big dinosaur at the Museum of Science, getting to sit in the big fire truck, and most of all - playing THOMAS of course!! Grams was sweet enough to set up jacksons tracks and everything - he was thrilled every morning to wake up and go into Grams room -- 'Grams Play' he'd say before anyone had even had coffee yet!! I promise to put some of those shots up - we have so many from the week!!

After that it was a few days of family vacation! We headed up to North Conway, NH for a few days - we got to see the trains and did a lot of swimming. Jackson had never been swimming before (besides once when he was a baby and doesnt remember!) so we were excited to see how he'd like it... boy was he funny! He wasn't sure if it was fun or not and then once he realized he was safe he thought it was the best - He looked so cute in his little swimmy - floaty thing and his little bathing suit -- images to follow here too!

Once we got home from vacation it was a bit of crazyiness between Rick working and my sessions but we survived the week! Then I got to hangout with my good friend Keri at the Bellies and Babies tour with Sandra Puc' - It was so fun - I even got to be the pregnant model and got a free DVD!! Thanks for the help Molly girl - Pays to be pregnant!!

I also had the chance to spend the day with Denise and Ed as I shot their wedding on Sunday in Groveland, MA. It was a beautiful day and everything was stunning - Although Denise is my doctor, she was like one of my girlfriends the day of her wedding - she looked beautiful and the newlyweds were just so happy! Thanks for letting me share in your day guys - I promise pictures are coming soon!!

We've spent the last few days just getting things together for the big BIRTHDAY BASH this weekend! I have to tell you I was in HEAVEN this evening.... we came home to a SPARKLING CLEAN HOUSE!! We had our cleaning lady come today so things could be in order for the party and honestly, I felt like a kid in a candy store! We've had a good friend of ours clean for us when I was pregnant when jackson but this is another friend of a friend who will be coming back throughout this pregnancy and I could just give her a hug right now! I was almost jumping up and down my house was so clean - even Rick said so! I'm THRILLED things are clean and away... now lets just pray it stays that way until Sunday! hehe...

Well its back to organizing and editing for a bit - I promise a post with pictures soon..

Thanks for checking in - The craziness is about to subside--- at least for the time being ;)

Lots of hugs to my loyal blog readers!!

xoxox,
K

:::::DRUM ROLL :::::::

2008-05-12T21:42:00.002-04:00

we're all VERY excited!!

Hugs,
K, R, & J!

My Beautiful...

2008-05-11T20:19:00.002-04:00

is all about being a mom.

I dreamed about it since I was 5. I always wanted to be a mommy. That's even what I told people when they would ask what I wanted to be when I grew up. I believe being a mommy is the greatest job in the world.

There isn't a day that goes by that I don't thank God for blessing me with the gift of being someone's mommy. Not just anyone's mommy, but Jackson's mommy. From the moment I knew I was pregnant I knew I had been chosen for this special little life and it began to shift my thinking... Little did I know just how much my thinking would change...

I no longer wanted to know what was the latest gossip - I wanted to know what was the latest safety tip!
I no longer wanted to buy the prettiest outfit that made me feel good - I felt pretty in jeans and a t-shirt with baby puke down my shoulder!
I no longer longed for the weekend when I could sleep in until whenever I wanted - I longed for the morning when I could run into the crib and pick up that little munchkin to smooch good morning - excited for a new day!
I no longer wanted to go out to dinner for a few hours at a time - losing all track of time - I wanted to race home after a yummy meal to see if I could kiss him goodnight just one more time!
I no longer wanted to live for myself - I realized I would give my life for this child - for my child - for my heart and soul that is living outside of my body...

I love the way his face lights up when I walk into the room and he races across the room yelling 'mommy' like he hasn't seen me in years when in reality I probably just went into his bedroom to get something!
I love that no matter how sad he gets if he trips and falls and kiss on the boo-boo can make it all better and all those tears go away.
I love that even in the middle of the night when im double tired and he wakes up with a bad dream that a snuggle and a little hug can make it alright.
I love that even after telling him not to do do something, he will repeat it right back to me (half the time has he still does it!)
I love that every morning he calls 'mommy' and when I turn on his light in the morning he greets me with an ear to ear grin!
I love that after a stressful hour of *trying* to grocery shop he greets the cashier with a coy smile and says 'hi' as if he knows to turn the charm on after being a nudge the whole time!
I love that he can be a tour guide in the car, pointing out everything we pass until we get to where we're going.
I love that I can watch my mom with her first grandchild.
I love that I know what it means when someone tells me I have such a gift.
I love that I understand things my mom taught me on a new level... on a mother level.
I love that I have been given the gift to be the mommy to such an amazing, unbelievable, unique, joyful, beautiful boy..

I am so blessed to be given the chance to be a mommy to another blessing in just a few short months!

Thank you for picking me - I love you Jackson. You have made all my dreams come true.

Happy Mother's Day to all my favorite mommies... Hugs and Blessings to all of you...

xoxo
K

Taking bets....

2008-05-11T19:19:00.002-04:00

leave your guess in the comment box below! I'll report back to let you know who is right! :)

xoox
k

It takes a little rain to make a rainbow!

2008-05-07T20:50:00.007-04:00

After 2 hours of this:

I got to spend the next hour and a half with these faces!!!!!!

At first I was annoyed - I was going to be late after leaving with plenty of time - blah blah.. but the more I sat there the more I realized this must be something awful going on. Come to find out- There was a terrible accident which gave anyone on 95 South 2 hours of stopped traffic. I felt terrible and decided to just enjoy the quite time to myself and send positive energy to whomever was in that accident. We were all in 'park' for a while and every so often we'd inch along... after 2 hours I finally got to the rest stop and ran in to pee... FOX25 news was there interviewing people as they walked in about sitting in the traffic... I dodged that like a bullet -- pregnant lady in 2 hours of traffic who REALLY had to pee... not a nice person to interview!!! Anyways- shortly after that, things got moving and I got to where I needed to be. All I could think of was the poor people in the accident.. it must have been terrible. I said a few prayers for them as I continued on my way. Sitting in all that traffic was worth it to get to hang out with such good friends - and such adorable kids to boot!

I can't believe Ry and C-man are so grown up! Ry - one of jacksons good friends (who's mom just happens to be one of my best friends!) is going to be 3 in just another week and a half! I feel like he was just born! And then C-man made his entrance to the world last August! My how time flies...

Tonight we got to hang out at this very cool park - the Larz Anderson Park -- I can't wait to go back - and Lucky for me I have a session there on Saturday! ha!

Lis and Dan - thank you guys so much for asking me to capture a few moments of what life was like at these ages of the boys and your family, You know how much we love you and we can't wait to play Thomas the Train! So come on over!! I hope these get you through until the rest of your images are ready! :) We'll be in touch!

Hugs,
K

Do you ever see your future?

2008-05-06T11:18:00.003-04:00

I swear I'm giving gifts every so often when I am given a glimpse into my future. I'm sitting at Panera doing some work when this elderly couple comes and sits down just across the way from me in the big comfy chairs. The sit together drinking coffee, looking out the window together, holding hands, just enjoying the time together. The gentlemen makes his wife laugh at just about every other sentence - they say hello to people passing by or cleaning around them. After finishing their coffee's they get up - he helps her up - and they clean up and as they leave, he opens the door for her still letting her go first!

I swear that will be my life one day. When the kids are grown up and its just me and my best friend to enjoy time together. I know we'll do that kind of stuff - especially if it involves coffee!

I'm just grateful I made the best decision of my life on January 21, 2006.

I love you Rick.

oxox

Look what Amazon.com delivered!

2008-05-05T21:33:00.003-04:00

ha! Nope its not the 85mm 1.8 lens thats calling my name BUT it is something just as handsome!

I was working in my office when Jackson came in to 'help' - he grabbed this empty box and sat right down in it! That little boy just cracks me up!

I had my camera right next to my desk and the way he was just standing next to me looking out the window brought tears to my eyes as I realized these quiet moments will be gone one day and I will have to 'remember the time' when his little chubby cheeks fit in his in his tiny chubby hands... those big brown eyes melt my heart every time I look in them....

Attempting a few shots for the birthday card (yep thats right, the big TWO is just a few weeks away - CAN YOU BELIEVE IT!) and in perfect Jackson fashion he wanted nothing to do with the camera... but I happened to catch these few classic moments... if only there was sound for you to hear the 'choo-choo-ing'...

I do love the itty bitty sunlight that was sneaking in the window...

Thats about it on the home front for us .. just a few shots for fun!

Happy Cinco-de-mayo!! :)

k

Cousins: Best of Friends

2008-04-27T21:14:00.003-04:00

Can you tell these girls love to be with each other! At least thats the feeling I got today when I got to play with them (and little C-man was so cold and wanted no part of pictures!) These girls were so adorable all dressed in their blue and white dresses ready for a picture perfect day (that we schedule two months ago!) but of COURSE today it decided to rain - yep, thats right, it decided to rain on the ONE day that we had our session booked for months. Now, it hasn't rained here in a long time - so long that there are brush fires popping up just about everywhere but I guess that sunshine had to end sometime. Well, who needs sunshine when you have these smiling faces. The kids (and parents!) were such troopers and hungout with me in the rain and all! Lucky for us the rain actually stopped for a bit and we could come out of the little shelter we found on a stage!

Thanks for sharing your morning with me guys! You guys were all so great - I can't wait to show you your images!

Hugs,
Keri

Check out C-man's little face!! Couldn't you just eat him up!! Mr. Serious!

Updates

2008-04-22T14:01:00.002-04:00

Peek-a-boo... Did you miss this face?! :)

Jackson LOVES to hide in the cabinet -- he thinks its a riot when you say 'Where's Jackson? Has anyone seen Jackson?" then he pokes his head out and cracks up giggling for a few minutes! I love that little giggle....

As promised - the report on our night away!! Last week Rick surprised me with booking a room for us away for a night on our anniversary of when we (re)met 4 years ago... We stayed at The Wentworth by the Sea in New Hampshire. It was awesome! It was a big night since I've never left Jackson overnight so to be honest I was a little nervous! I knew he was with Mi-Mi so he was in good hands I was just praying he wasn't a nudge!!! Turns out the day/evening for Rick and I was perfect and Jackson had the time of his life at home. It was very strange to sleep without the humming of the monitor in my ear though! It was almost too quiet -- Two years with that thing in my ear every night!

At any rate - we walked into our room and what do I see -- two dozen stunning roses for ME! My husband really is the most thoughtful husband in the world. He made sure the flowers were in our room waiting for us (WHICH by the way was the admirals quarters and we had a unbelievable room overlooking everything! - the ocean, the golf course, the harbor.... it was awesome!) Did I mention we had HEATED bathroom floors - two bathrooms - BOTH had heated floors.... how cool right! (Can you tell I never stay in hotels! haha)

This was the view from our room...

Check out the amazing flowers he had waiting for me.. they smelled heavenly and looked unbelievable. I've never seen roses like that.....

short and sweet:

Aren't they amazing! They were so big!! Pink and purple... my favorite roses! I would buy roses every week if I could afford it - I just love the way the look in the house... and of course they smell so pretty too... anyyyyways!

He also had some chocolate covered strawberries waiting for us as well... well they were SUPPOSED to be waiting for us until room service knocked on the door 5 minutes after we got there.... But they were DELICIOUS none-the-less! I could have had just those for dinner!!

(maybe its the pregnancy (aka mommy brain) but I started eating these before I took the picture-- haha! oh well.. you get the point!)

We headed out to dinner in downtown Portsmouth, NH at a place called Poco's Bow Street Cantina Which was very yummy too - too cold to sit outside still but a beautiful view of Portsmouth Harbor.

Although we spent the day shopping for Jackson and telling one Jackson story after another.. and maaaaaybe text messaging my mom to check in a few times... we had a wonderful night away... I forgot how important it is to still take time for yourself and your marriage in the craziness of life and business... without taking care of yourself, how can you take care of everything else?!

Thank you babe - It was perfect and just what I needed! 2 years worth of waiting :)

Love you...

K

Brothers.

2008-04-22T12:24:00.002-04:00

I had the pleasure of hangin' with these two boys two weeks ago (but with the craziness I'm just getting to posting now!) As soon as I got there I got smothered in lots of hugs from my little buddy W-man... he is getting so big (and just 3 weeks behind Jackson) makes me feel like they are growing up WAY too fast!!!!

You might remember a few months ago Jake was only this big as a newborn:

But now he is growing up as quick as his big brother and is getting just as cute everyday!

They are just too cute-- Mom says this is the way J-man always looks at his big brother!!

Thanks for letting me come back to play guys - It was so much fun!!

Can you take the cuteness?!

2008-04-19T17:22:00.002-04:00

Oh My Gosh. This little man was a dream!! I wanted to tuck him in my camera bag and take him home - so happy - so chubby - so delicious! I have so many to proof but these three were just too cute not to share - Gosh I love my job! I get to meet awesome families and snap shots of the cutest little munchkins around! Would you ever believe this guy was a premie? I know, me either! Mom and Dad are definitely doing something right - Since J-man didn't get to take any newborn shots I know how much these 6 month shots mean to them...

I hope the are what you were hoping for! We'll be in touch - I can't wait to show you the rest!! Thanks for welcoming me into your home - I feel like I've known you guys for years! Looking forward to our playdates - Until then....... smooch that little face for me and enjoy!

(on a sidenote - I know I'm behind! Updates coming soon - Jen, I'm going to put your two adorable munchkins up here too -- I am also going to post about Jackson's trip to see the firetrucks and a super fun trip Rick and I were blessed enough to go on!!!... so stay tuned!)

Check it out!

2008-04-07T13:47:00.005-04:00

Jackson has a new shirt he's been sporting around... Check it out!

Oh - and this is the back....

Yep thats right... and in case you needed to see it a little closer just to be sure.....

We are very excited and have been super excited to share our news with all our family, friends and fellow bloggers!! I have been anxiously awaiting this post because I can now explain my lack of posts!! Between a bad case of morning sickness and complete exhaustion I didnt have it in me to keep up with the blogging... BUT i'm happy to say we're in week 13 now and the morning sickness has begun to subside (THANK GOD!) and I'm sleeping a bit better as well! I have lots to update on here now that our news is out - but we wanted to share our good news with all of you..

THANK YOU for being understanding fellow bloggers! I promise we'll be better about our updates :)

Hugs and love to you all...

xoox
Keri, Rick and Jackson

terrible no good very bad blogger!

2008-04-03T10:16:00.002-04:00

my oh my i have been a bad blogger... i can't believe how long it has been since my last post... does that really say MARCH 17th?? wow... thats terrible!!!

I have lots of updates to come in the next week or so... I had a awesome session with the Riley boys last week - Jen I can't wait to show you the images - Thanks for being so patient!

We are also changing servers and a few programs so things are a bit slower then normal and we really appreciate your patience with placing orders etc. but hopefully it will be all set and running by the end of the weekend! you are always welcome to email me directly if you have an immediate question.

Lots of sessions coming up in the next few weeks as the nice weather is approaching -- so excited to get to know so many awesome families... If you're interested in booking a session this spring feel free to contact us asap as we book a few weeks out!

Here it is - out in the open so i HAVE to make good on my promise.. i WILL post updates AND images very very soon!!!

THANK YOU for being loyal blog readers -- I promise to try to be better... its just been a bit chaotic since we moved, made all these new business changes, website changes etc.... but the best part is it will all be done soon AND it will be ROCKIN!!!

hugs to all of you...xoxoxo

k

Easter Egg Egg-stravaganza!!!

2008-03-17T14:45:00.002-04:00

Can you believe it - Jackson is old enough to die Easter Eggs!! This was one of my favorite things growing up... I used to LOVE to die Easter eggs at Easter time... I'm sure my mom loved it too when I INSISTED on getting the glitter decorating kits, or the bright pink die as well... but hey - it made for awesome memories... sometime we were even reminded of the fun all year since that glitter seemed to NEVER go away...right mom! :)

at any rate -- we decorated some eggs last night.... Jackson couldnt decide which kit he loved more... the Elmo kit or the Lightning McQueen (from the movie Cars) ... as you can see- he thought this was SO very cool.

thanks for checking in- its a crazy week this week!!

hugs and love....

checking out the two kit!

aww.... hugs for Lightning...

the first egg with daddy!!

into the yellow.....

jackson's favorite color.... soooo cool!

with mom...

with dad - while jackson says 'hooorrraayyy!' - i think he liked it!

into the orange!!!

WOW!!!

Dad getting all fancy -- two colors!

apparently the red says do NOT add vinegar to it... mommy missed that direction :)

elmo stickers...

sooooo many elmo stickers!

jackson's named easter egg!

daddys well decorated Lightning McQueen egg!

Stickers with daddy...

so attentive...

our finished products!!!

Happy Decorating!!!

xoxoxox....

to my photographer pals.. i know the color is off but really - we've been so crazy you're luck you even GET shots up! haha :) you know i love you all..... thanks for the understaning!

Photo Catch-Up!

2008-03-10T20:36:00.003-04:00

Here we are!!

I finally caught a few minutes to share a few shots from before we moved... while we moved.. and now that we ARE moved!!

I will keep the writing short as this is one tired mommy tonight, but hopefully you havent forgotten what this little face looks like!

We love you all!

xoxo
k

just before we moved we picked up some new thomas the train toys for jackson... mr. sir topham is one of the fav's!

who's ready to move!!! too bad jackson thought the dolly was a TOY not for moving boxes!

in the middle of packing packing and packing some more... i walked by jacksons room and this is what i saw...... my little boy sitting in his big glider reading to himself.... LOVE that little boy!

THEN came the big move!!! I don't know whats more fun... running around with so much room - or playing with all the boxes around here!

again!

another favorite pastime time these days... putting money in the piggie bank! ANY time he sees coins he runs to his room for his piggie bank!! save those pennies boy!!!!

ohhhhhhhhh how fun is the doggie door!! I KNOW jackson likes it more then the dog does! the dog doesn't even go through it! meanwhile, jackson sticks his head out of the door and yells for the bunnies that run across the yard!

what do you do when the lamp shade breaks off the lamp... why your son picks it up and wears it of course! i came around the corner this afternoon to see this while Daddy snapped this shot! (nice work dad!)

my last two favorites from today.... this face just melts my heart! he is TOO big!!

and finally - its back to thomas the train! some of our good friends gave us their train table and i cant even tell you how excited jackson is! he LOVES to climb up there and play trains - making all kinds of train sounds!

and lastly, did i mention how much i LOVE the light in our new house? it is heavenly!!!!!!

Hope those shots made you smile... thanks for checking in on us!
xoxo

we are alive!

2008-03-03T12:47:00.001-05:00

we're alive and buried under boxes but hopefully we'll be out sooner rather then later!

we have been SO SO SO blessed to have so many amazing people around us to help pack, move, and unpack... we are very very grateful...

jacksons loving the new place - running around like a mad man!

lots to do but just wanted to drop a note to let you know all know we're still kickin'!

thanks for the understanding...

hugs,
k

Automated Response - Apology!!

2008-02-29T08:25:00.003-05:00

I don't know what the heck I did to my automated response - but for some reason it got sent out to every email I have ever got in my inbox!! If you received multiple automated response messages for me I am SO SORRY! haha... I don't know what happened but hopefully its fixed -- Let me know if you keep getting messages from me - I keep getting messages from myself! I'm so confused! haha...

My Apologies again - Hopefully its figured out!

Blessings,
K

tom brady look alike?

2008-02-24T19:52:00.003-05:00

oh and just for fun... caught this shot of my older bro today... people have been telling him for years he looks like tom brady! some people even stop him to say hello! ahah... you be the judge...

how cute is my bro!! ms. allie is one lucky girl :)

*he is SO going to kill me when he sees this!! hahaha..... love you fred!

MIA.../ Out of the office

2008-02-24T19:49:00.002-05:00

so we've been MIA lately ... lots going on!

we're MOVING in just 5 days... I can't believe that time snuck right up on us! We've been buried under boxes and bins trying to figure out what to pack and keep out etc... it's going to be bit crazy over the next week or two but then things should settle back to normal... and we'll be all settled in! :)

just wanted to update my clients as I am 100% sure that my internet will be on as soon as we move this weekend so I will respond as quick as possible!

everyone else - thanks for being so patient!

I promise to update with pictures soon.. totally forgot how much moving is a pain in the neck!!!!!!

wish us luck - and hope for no snow!!!!!!

hugs,
k

ah-ha moment

2008-02-15T23:09:00.002-05:00

ever have one of those days where the stars align and you GET something?!

today was one of those days... i've been struggling with a part of my photography for a while now, and although i keep reading and keep learning, it just didnt 'fit,' until today. it was my day today and i finally GOT it.

i was so excited and felt like i could BREATH finally... oh how i am grateful for my dearest, bestest, most wonderful teacher wendy....

had some fun snappin' away with the little man today...
oh how i adore those eyelashes!

oh how i will miss those finger prints one day -- i know it will go so fast!!

then we headed out for a quick stop at the local small airport around here to visit with the planes just before dinner..

i don't know what jackson loved more.. the snow or the planes!

then we came home and had a wonderful dinner with our favorite neighbors in the whole world P and D! We're so lucky to have such good friends just a few steps away.. oh how we'll miss them being that close... but don't worry - they know how to get to our new house! :) thank GOODNESS!

oh and just for fun i changed up the blog header for something fun! isn't that face priceless!!

i could just pinch those cheeks all day long!!

hope you're having a great start to the weekend...

hugs and much love,
k

<3 A little bit of love on Valentine's Day <3

2008-02-14T21:10:00.003-05:00

My two Valentines. my husband and my son - what more can you ask for!

Although I do think Valentine's day is just an excuse for Hallmark to make money - i DO believe in taking time everyday to remind the ones you love that they are important in your life. Things have been a bit crazy over the last few weeks so I decided although I think its cliche- i will share a few of my favorite things for my two favorite loves...

things i love about my boys:

my rick.

-the way he stops whatever he is doing when jackson brings him books or toys to play. nothing is more important then our family.

-the way he makes my coffee for me every morning just the way i like it - cream and sugar in FIRST before the hot coffee :)

-the way he tries to come to bed quietly if i'm already asleep so he doesn't wake me up (except for when he starts talking like i AM awake but i've really been sleeping for 2 hours already!!)

-the way he gives me the clicker even when his favorite show is on, just so we can hangout and watch tv together (which doesn't happen often!)

-the way he makes jackson laugh like nobody else.

-the importance he gives jackson and i in every aspect of his life.

-the way he hugs me and kisses my forehead after a long day (or sleepless night with a sick little boy!)

-the way he reminds me we are in God's hands and have a wonderful marriage that strengthens our Faith.

-the way he believes in me when I sometimes forget to believe in myself.

-the way he makes me feel safe and know I made the best decision of my life the day I married him, my best friend.

-the way we laugh together - like nobody else in the world - he makes me laugh every single day.

my jackson.

-the way he says 'mama?' when I open his door in the mornings when he wakes up - its like he hasn't seen me in years!

-the way he sprints across the room and does a dive into my arms when something cool happens!

-the way he says 'hooray' and claps for himself when he finishes all his puzzles or gets a basket with the basketball!

-the way he has to YELL out every color he see's - ESPECIALLY "Yedow" signs!

-the giggle he has when we play cars and crash them into each other on the floor!

-the way he uses all the sign language we've taught him to communicate things he can't quite say yet!

-the fall-down-silly-giggle he has when we play chase and then tickle monster!

-the way he chews on the tags of his lovey's and sings a little song every time!

-the way he snuggles into my shoulder when we say our prayers before bed.

-the way his messy little face is still cute enough to want to pinch!

-the way he pats my back when he hugs me everyday.

-the look in his eyes when he looks up at me and says 'love you.' ... it melts my heart.

So today on this love filled day - Rick and Jackson -- I love you both with all my heart. Thank you for giving me the two most important jobs in the world -- a wife and a mommy. I can't wait to see what our future holds... I am so grateful for both of you...

xoxoxo...
K

Some Tough Chicks!

2008-02-10T21:11:00.000-05:00

Roller Derby. Ever heard of it? Remember it? Neither was the case for me! Until a few months ago..

My bro, Freddie, was blessed enough to meet a sweet girl, Allie. We heard about her here and there and noticed a bit of a sparkle in his eye when he'd talk about her.... oooohhhhhh Freddie liked Allie!!!! It was about time he asked her out - and lucky for him, she agreed :) As he was getting to know her, of course as his nosey sister, I was after him for some details or at least some info! "She plays Roller Derby," he said. What the heck is that?! Had never heard of it - didnt know what it was or even how you played it! For someone that is the Dodgeball Champion, this was a perfect match for him!!!! She loved her Roller Derby - he loved his Dodgeball... perfection! He said we should come to a game sometime... so we did! Last night. :) We didn't get to meet Allie aka "Maura Buse" (hahaha) after her game since Jackson was ready to leave after the first period, but she was ROCKIN' out there!! Rick and I can't wait to go to another game - it was so fun! But we might just have to leave Jackson home next time.. Although he loved it - it was a bit late for him...

So "De-De" (as jackson calls Freddie) Nicely done. Tell us when you're coming over for dinner with "Allllllliiiiiiiieeeeeeeee"

love you-
k

ready to take on dad in a derby game!!

at first glance... checking out the arena while they were warming up:

Introducing... 'Maura Buse!!!'

'Maura Buse' in the blue.... in the intro as to how the game is played!!

Cheering with De-De!! -- Go, Go, Go!!

Jack was sad when the girls would take a spill -- anytime someone fell this was the face he made while shouting "OH NO!"

The girls in action!!

What a awesome boyfriend - sportin' the gear for his girl!!!

Love you guys -- now freakin get over here will ya!
xoox

Busted!

2008-02-07T21:54:00.000-05:00

Chocolate cake, Mom?

I definitely didn't have any chocolate cake, why do you ask?

but that little face just melts your heart -- I would have even given him the chocolate face for that look!!

isn't he just the cutest! our little buddy came over for playdate last week and his eyes are just too beautiful not to photograph!

just a few quick posts... more to come soon i hope... not enough hours in the day! :)

blessings,
k

how do you say thanks to someone who changed your life?

2008-02-03T20:49:00.000-05:00

Heavy title I know. But really. How do you say thanks to someone that has changed your life? and to make it even more complex its not even likes its a really close friend - its a stranger - well, a stranger that you feel like you're friends with but really you don’t really know that much about them! Confusing, I know.

When I first decided to get into photography as a business I came across a photographer, David Jay.He is a wedding photographer based out of California and I immediately fell in love with his passion. His photography is great, but his passion for what he does is amazing. Aside from being a great photographer David has really found it his calling to help OTHER photographers succeed. That's right - he wants to help other photographers. This industry sometimes has the stigma of being very cutthroat and very closed from each other. Perhaps the pendulum is swinging the other way towards working together, but we aren't quite there yet (on the East Coast anyways! West Coast is GREAT at this!) I joined David's photographer’s online forum and started reading a lot about him and what he was doing. I couldn't believe everything he was doing to help better so many strangers. As time went on, I invested a lot in his products as well as his philosophies. It was infectious - I wanted to help other people too! I answered any questions I could and shared anything I found with as many people that would listen!

I was blessed enough to spend today listening to David Jay speak again. I've seen him before and I am a member of his forums so I hear what he's up to often but there is just something powerful about listening to people you admire. Although I knew some of what he was talking about, it is like a little dose of confidence. I love that about him - he makes you believe...

So back to my title - how do you say thanks to someone who changed your life? Although it may sound a little dramatic it really isn't. David has opened himself up like a book for so many others to benefit from him and his learning/mistakes/gains; he has really changed my life. I know you're thinking 'How!' David is big on FREEDOM. Freeing up your life for ENJOYING your life. When I first started on this journey - I cannot tell you how many countless hours I spent trying to figure out what an efficient workflow would be.. THIS was supposed to be an industry that gave you a bit of flexibility? for WHO!? I was losing more time away from my family, more time away from my fast growing infant, less time sleeping, and just piling on more work!??! THAT was not what I signed up for! Hard work, yes. But EFFICIENT work was not where I was. David has given me a freedom I never knew existed. By sharing his way of working efficiently - it was as if the Angels sang!! When I first learned about it a few months back, I was floored. Although what he shares isn’t for everyone and I don’t adopt everything he does – but to be able to hear and understand his approach was life changing. I couldn't believe it but once I tried it for myself and saw all the time I got back in my life I was almost moved to tears. Again, sounds dramatic but really - I was. Why? Well, think about it - I had precious moments with my newborn son back, I had quality time with my husband, I could catch up with my best childhood girlfriends, I could devote the time and energy into learning tools and education to further my photography instead of being a slave to my computer! I could sleep again!!! Now, DON'T get me wrong - there is a LOT of hard work that goes into this industry AND my work. The difference now is I am using my precious time WISELY. I am not using energy where I don't need to and I'm not burning myself out… which I would have done very quickly had I stayed on the route I was on..

So, how do you thank someone that gives you a gift so big? - the best I have is my word....

David Jay, Thank you. Whether you ever see this or not I just wanted to say it. You have given me more then I could ever repay you for - The best I have to offer is my friendship. Thank you for opening your heart. Thank you for giving me my memories with those who I love. Thank you for giving me my life back. May you have many more blessings in 2008.

Forever grateful,

Keri

**David took a picture of his after the seminar today and when I went to post it I realized it was on HIS camera not mine! hahah Ooops! :)

****Edit... DJ sent the file over after all :) What a sweetheart! Thanks my friend!
Check out the rockin' Tom Brady jersey!! He knew what part of the country he was in :)

Photographer Friends .. this ones for you...

2008-02-01T08:28:00.000-05:00

Hey Photographer friends..

If you're looking for a rockin resource to pick up a few quick tips check out [B}eckers new place - The [B] School Blog. He is going to be launching The [B] School in March but in the mean time he has created one 'short' every day to give back to the community just about things he does... love this guy - hope to meet him one day and thank him for all the awesome advice he's share! I'll stop rambling and just let you check it out for yourself....

hugs,
k

our little cleaner...

2008-01-30T23:46:00.000-05:00

jackson david sure does love to clean. he is the first to do 'clean up' at any friends house, play group or gym class. even before taking his naps or going to bed for the night.. he is a very good cleaner-upper :)

just a few weeks ago (as you may remember from a post below..) he has become very interested in the swiffer, the broom, the vacuum, anything that he can clean with... sooooooo what better way to help him then to get him one of his own! not a REAL one silly -- the cutest little vacuum you've ever seen... Elmo (he says: memo??) and Cookie (he says: num num num) of course!

How cool is this: It can be BOTH Elmo and Cookie! you just flip the top and its a new face!! It even says funny things ... Cookie says "num num num, I love to vacuum with you! .... and..... ohhhhh big dust bunny!' haha... Oscar says 'Hey Cookie, you missed a spot!' ... and Elmo just giggles of course!

also the new thing is -- whenever he is focusing on something or concentrating - he sticks his tongue out! ahha.. still so cute nonetheless!! :)

Lastly - jackson LOVES to put change in his piggie bank. Whenever anyone comes over he runs into his room to grab it and asks for 'money!' haha.. he loves the idea of putting it in so now we just take the bottom off.. shameful i know. Until we saw THIS toy! His own TOY piggy bank!! I've always been pretty grossed out by him touching all those coins - let alone if he pockets one and tries to eat it later or something crazy... so now, no more worrying! we can put the real one away and he can play with his very own cute piggie who sings and counts and everything,.... the new favorite word of the week: YEEEEEHHHH-DOOOOOOHHHH (as in yellow) (pronouced - yed-oh!) check out the coin he's putting in... :)

and just a few fun ones from the past few days... :)

playing peek-a-boo through the tunnel before bath time!

my little baby is growing up too fast... where is my little baby???

ohhh i love that face!

sad to report Nemo took a hit... Jackson ripped his tale off but DONT worry! he still wears him all day... he was tearing it off saying 'Uh-Oh... Oh no..'... well STOP silly!!... I wonder how long it will last.... poor Nemo......

Thanks for checking in...

Hugs,
K

holy ooowweeeyy-gooooeewwyyy goodness!

2008-01-30T23:40:00.000-05:00

mmmmmmmm some serious owey goewy goodness below...

we're having dinner with our bestest neighbors tomorrow so of course we had to break out a new recipe to try ... i went with the pioneer's 'bestest chocolate cake you've ever had in your whole life' cake... and honestly - no lie, it is the best chocolate cake ive ever had in my whole life. icing and all.

mmmmmm -mmmmmm.... check it out...

a whole (note the spelling!) cookie sheet of goodness!!! check out that icing too!!

doesn't it look awesome! too bad it didn't stay on the fork that long.... hehe...

and then just to have another option I made the old Raspberry-yummy-delicious-cake that I make for a lot of things...
Especially pretty around Christmas or Valentines day... Stay tuned for the inside shot tomorrow...

did anyone want to tell me...

2008-01-29T14:59:00.000-05:00

i spelled 'hole' wrong on the image below??? nice. the elementary school teacher can't even spell 'whole' correctly.

thanks for the HONESTY PEOPLE! :)

pictures to come hopefully tonight....

thanks for checkin' in! :)

hugs,
k

**Edit.. ahhaha shut up Fed!!!!!! :-P

a bad blogger i know..

2008-01-23T14:18:00.000-05:00

i've been a terrible blogger i know.. its been a rough week or so in this house..Rick and I got hit with some NASTY food poisoning and it sent us for a loop. We've never both been sick at the same time so having a crazy wound up toddler running around as you sicker then sick was a bit of a challenge... luckily Neighbors-of-the-Century came by and scooped up our little man for a few hours while we felt like garbage on the couch. We are so super grateful to have some of our bestest friends as our neighbors -- what would we do without Paul and Donna!? So after that fiasco things have returned to normal a bit... thank goodness!

even though i've been a bad blogger.... i do have some super exciting news...... GUESS WHO IS MOVING?!?!?!?

Yep! thats right-- right after we decided everything we had looked at wasn't worth moving for we decided that we'd just stay one more year... well the very next day an awesome couple we met with last year told us their property is going to become available march 1 if we are interested.... well wouldnt you know our lease ends Feb. 29th!! So we headed right over, checked it out and fell in love with it just as much as we did last year! We didnt move last year because a few minor things that we thought might have been a problem but turns out - we can make it all work out this time -- I can't even begin to tell you how excited we are! Its our very own house -- no lugging up 3 flights of stairs (or the elevator!) - with groceries, laundry, a dog, and a toddler! just open the door to the fenced in yard to play!!! We are close Nana and Papa and close to Mi-Mi and Pampy, close to where jackson will go to preschool, it overlooks some marshland into the ocean - it has LAUNDRY! im telling you - it couldnt have worked out better if i prayed any harder... and good thing as i wasnt sure how much more i could pray! isn't if funny though.. somehow when i get to the point that i just surrender everything things work out... you'd think id have more faith by now... i guess im a little slow on the uptake somedays :) at any rate we are so so so grateful things are working out...

my fellow photographer friends will appreciate this -- we have 4 windows in our place right now - we live in a building so there obviously only on the front side of the buidling... i feel like some days we live in a cave the way sunlight gets blocked by our building and it sure does make for difficult lighting situations.... BUT... check this out below... the entire length of hour house is not only windows along side -- but SKYLIGHTS! -- imagine going from a cave to this!!!!!... we are very super excited!

so although ive been a bad blogger -- and an even WORSE picture-a-day blogger (which i hope to update soon too!!) we at least have a few good excuses... we decided on a place to move (which means we've been crazy trying to go through each room to throw out anything and everything that isnt moving with us in order to make packing easier!!) AND we had that nastiness around for a few days... so loyal bloggers-- stay tuned! things may get a little crazy over the next few weeks trying to pack and all but at least we have brighter days ahead!! (ugh, the thought of packing, right!!!!)

here are a few shots for ya... dont you love it -- they even have the colors the way i would have done them too!! so cozy! :)

thanks for keeping up with us despite the lack of love for ya!
hugs,
k

2 years ago today...

2008-01-21T10:10:00.001-05:00

I was sitting in my hair dressers chair getting my hair put up for our WEDDING! I remember the whole day like it was yesterday.. I can't believe it was already 2 years ago! I was sitting in the chair in front of a dozen long stem red roses my love had dropped off the day before so I would have a little something special while I was getting ready with all my girlfriends.. sweetheart, I know ;)

When I think back to our wedding and wedding planning it makes my head spin a bit! (if you do the math, yes i know, i was 6 months pregnant when we got married!) we decided we wanted to get married before Jackson was born and that was very important to us... but had a very small window to do that! In 3 months we planned a 180 person wedding - while finishing my Masters in Elementary Ed, teaching 1st grade, being pregnant and while Rick was out on tour.. it was chaos and if you told me i had to do it again, im not sure i could do it the same way! haha.. it worked out like a dream and went off without a hitch.. it was the greatest day of our lives (before our son of course!) and everything was just as we wanted it! we even had 60 degree weather here in Boston in january on our wedding day! The next day was filled with 8 inches of snow! Gotta love New England!

*note- i was 6 months pregnant and that was the only dress i tried on! I knew i had to have a little wiggle room for the little man growing in there - this dress allowed for some room to grow as you can see it comes together at the empire waist! cute huh! ;) -- and yes, that is all my real hair - how Jacki got it up I have no idea, but i swear it was all mine!

Rick - thank you for choosing me to share your life with... I'm so grateful you are my forever - You are more then I could have ever prayed for and I can't wait to see what's waiting for us in the future...

I love you with all my heart and soul..
Keri

And of course a few pictures for fun...
A quick stop at the beach for a few shots!

escaping on the stairway for a few minutes alone!

cutting the cake -- janet made such a beautiful cake -we loved it! carrot cake no less! YUM!!

no chance i was going to miss that piece of carrot cake!! and a chocolate covered strawberry... yuuuummy!

love those piggies!

2008-01-14T22:07:00.000-05:00

can't believe how big those piggies are! wasn't it just yesterday they were itty bitty teeny tiny??

snowy snowy day... crazy that we were at the beach yesterday!

Warm enough for the Beach!

2008-01-13T21:37:00.000-05:00

Although we're supposed to get 13+ inches of snow tonight - we decided it was warm enough to hit the beach this morning... either that or we just had to get out of the house to play!!! :) Once we got there we saw cousin Morgan!! We may have been bundled up - but it was another great at the beach!!

Thanks for checking in..
Hugs,
K

Jackson checking out the ocean waves...

Ms. Morgan loved Jackson's ball - looks like he's not the only one in the family that loves to kick the ball around!

Adrenaline junk I tell ya!! -- LOVES to have Dad toss him up -- can ya tell!

frustrated with the blogger!!!!!!!

2008-01-13T10:00:00.000-05:00

so frustrated.

i have uploaded the same images 100 times and cannot figure out what the deal is -- they aren't being uploaded correctly or something because they look so pixilated and fuzzy when in fact the images are sharp and clear...

GRRRRRRRR...

for those of you bloggers.. how do you post your images -- maybe im leaving something out thats important??

annoyed.
k

one more..

2008-01-12T23:07:00.001-05:00

i forgot this one...

i just love it!

snacks at Mi-Mi's

2008-01-12T23:00:00.001-05:00

we played at Mi-Mi's this afternoon - we had to take a little break for a snack.. Apple and candy raisins (yogurt covered raisins - jack thinks they are candy!)

how funny is this face! haha.. he was saying 'mmmmm'

the next new fun game - dumping things out and putting them back in!

counting..

after our snack we were ready to go! jackson has a new found love... CLEANING. a boy after my own heart. he loves sweeping any chance he can get! look how excited he is!
And the best part is - he's cleaning in his Pat's jersey!!! haha...

Lastly, the cookie monster 'hat' (aka tupperware bowl!)

Happy Birthday Mi-Mi!!

2008-01-12T22:56:00.002-05:00

It was Mi-Mi's birthday so we headed to The Cheesecake Factory to celebrate!

We got seated at the coolest booth which was a semi-circle but had mirrors all the way around the table! i kept shooting around but thought it was getting distracting so i put it away -- but boy was it fun!

check out Mi-Mi' birthday Burrito -- do you SEE the size of that?? I should have taken a after shot but she didn't even eat 1/8 of it! haha...

Happy Birthday Mom- We hope it was a good one!! Thank you for all that you do for so many others... We love you!

Silly boy...

2008-01-12T22:53:00.000-05:00

Jackson broke my sunglasses last week -- i always have my sunglasses so I was bummin'! We hit up target for a cheap pair since they'll probably get broken again -- at any rate - he loves those glasses!! i didnt know which was cuter so i put up both!

and dont worry -- nemo is still kickin'!

hugs,
k

a few back posts...

2008-01-12T22:37:00.000-05:00

we got to play at the park with one of our bestest buddies!! these boys are growing up way too fast! isn't that face just too cute!! can't wait for the nice weather so we can hit the park like this all the time!!

jackson is an adrenaline junkie. plan and simple. he loves it. we brought him up on the big kid covered slide to see if he might be into it... he nearly jumped out of ricks arms and couldnt wait to keep doing it! his little face was priceless -- excuse the horrible color but that tunnel is tough to shoot up into! the motion just adds to it don't ya think! he was flying down that slide!!

slides go down not up!!!

sunset across the water over Salem..

look at that face!! this little man is so stinkin cute!

Active Healing Link

2008-01-11T08:22:00.000-05:00

Here is the link if you want it directly..
Active Healing on WBZ tv - check out the video clip on the right side of the page...

Hugs,
K

Tonight on the news...

2008-01-10T20:22:00.000-05:00

For those of you in the Boston Area -- WBZ Channel 4 is airing a story on our amazing friend Sargent Goodchild. Sarge runs a program called Active Healing. It is a physically based therapy for brain injured children and adults - This includes Autism, ADD, ADHD, etc. I had the honor of writing a paper on his program in my undergrad. It was beyond amazing! I could go on and on about it here, but you should really just check it out for yourself HERE

It will make more sense if you visit their website for youself :)

And for those of you NOT in the Boston area -- you can check it out on Friday at WBZTV - HERE

We are so grateful to call you our friends Sarge (and family!) So excited to see you getting this coverage. We'll be by for a visit soon...

Hugs,

Keri xoxo

a few from the past..

2008-01-09T23:00:00.000-05:00

Since I loaded Leopard on my laptop I've been scanning through so many things I've forgotten about! Here are a few shots from a few months ago when Jackson was playing with Uncle Wavey! He was too funny trying to make everyone laugh!! We love you Uncle Wave!!!

I'll be sure to post more updates as I come across things I "put in a safe folder to edit later"...

amazing what you can find!

and for you photographers...

2008-01-09T13:04:00.001-05:00

because now we've become interested in researching the creepyness....(see post below) you will truly appreciate the amazing beauty in these shots of the Asylum... now they are very CREEPY -- but the artisit captures are very cool... check it out for yourself...

Danvers Hospital - Kirkbride Building

Second Batch

***NOTE: this was also the location that a horror movie "Session 9" was filmed at.... no i never saw it. and never will.

:)

twilight zone

2008-01-09T08:30:00.000-05:00

i'm pretty sure thats where we live. the twilight zone. this house hunting has been a circus - and thats an understatement! We have seen some places that are unbelievable - some nice places -- too nice! and some just don't fit for what we need... heres a recap of some of our favorite house hunting moments...
-house listing with only 2 bathrooms - 0 rooms, 0 bedrooms, just 2 bathrooms??? haha...
-house with no porch but we got to climb up a ladder!
-house that has slanted ceilings in every room which makes putting anything but a bed in there impossible.
-house that the ceiling as as tall as Rick!
-house that is listed as a 2 bedroom but is really a 1 bedroom but 'some people have used this as a bedroom' even though its
was a sliding glass door which was a main entrance into the building???
-finding the perfect house only to learn its not deleaded. GRRRRRRRRRR...
-and my personal favorite - the haunted place. Yep thats right - it was on the old Danvers State Hospital Insane Asylum grounds. Rick was more worried that it was set on fire and burned to the ground and they never found the cause -- I"M more concerned with the SPIRITS LIVING THERE.... talk about bad karma. I knew when we drove up there something felt erie -- little did I know what grounds we were on...

We had an appt. to view a condo today - I wanted to double check the address so I asked the Google Gods... This was the
First Information I found on Danvers State Hospital - Insane Asylum (WARNING: NOT FOR CHILDREN. on second thought - not even for ME since im such a scaredy cat!!!!) Needless to say - we cancelled our showing. No WONDER its vacant and has so many 'specials' hahahahahhahah... can you (that know me) imagine me living there??? NOT ON FOR A GAZILLION DOLLARS. I don't do creepy.

Maybe the lady in the window would have come for dinner?!.... CREEEEPPPPYYY - (*i am not a fan of horror movies, scary shows or even scary stories) - it goes without saying that this was all i thought/dreamed about last night since I watched it just be for bed...

where are we looking you might ask? ... NORTH SHORE OF BOSTON.. the freakin most expensive place ever to live in. Oh don't worry, we've entertained the idea of moving a bit further away or even out of state but after looking around in surrounding towns we realized we can even go 4 towns over let alone another state ... not with our situation and having so much help from my family while Rick's gone.. and that means back to the drawing board.

So, between unlivable rooms, lead filled houses, and haunted living space we may just stay where we are for another year.. which really is NOT what we were hoping for but with time running out we need to make a decision.... anyone have any other ideas?!?! :)

I have to admit, through all of this we have definitely had many laughs together - I'm so grateful I have the type of husband and relationship that brings us closer during chaos instead of driving a steak between us... So often chaos can add stress between people but I believe it definitely brings us together.. for that I'm grateful. Love you babe.

So the search has another few days and then we have to decide.. Pray for us - I'm not sure how much harder we can pray!!!

Hugs,
k

The Chair is a hit!!

2008-01-06T20:08:00.000-05:00

Thank you so much Grams and Grandpa Pete!!!

We got Jacksons chair all set up and he LOVES it!! He sits in it like a big guy and thinks he's sooooo funny!!

As you can see - the chair in the back on the box is where he used to sit... he definitely needed a bigger one with some support!

Mr. green monster served him well ... and he will still be around... but maybe not as much!

We love it -- Thank you so much!!!

Hugs,
k

"If you're happy and you know it...."

2008-01-05T23:40:00.000-05:00

"saw some wood... *ernie and bert giggles* hahaha... thats what it really says!

we were lucky enough to head over to celebrates Tylers 2nd birthday party today!!! I cant believe he is already 2!!!! Jackson decided to do a kartwheel off of his little toy bus so we headed out a little early with a black eye... BUT before the drama he loved playing with Tylers Giggle 'n' Go' tool bench that they dont sell anymore.. **WAHHH*...

check him out!

hugs,
k

Be sure to wear your COOKIE safety goggles!!!!

bert is on one side and ernie is on the other! how cute!!!

frustrating...

2008-01-05T15:52:00.000-05:00

so this house hunting has turned out to be much more frustrating then we ever wanted. we've looked at some places that REALLY just weren't our fit but todays showing takes the cake..

you are wondering why a ladder is pictured above right? well thats because when we got there...(after driving by the house 3 times because that house COUDLNT be the one we're going to look it... oh but it was!) we were greeted by the owner who informed us that we'd have to CLIMB A LADDER in order to see the house since they were putting on a new porch that the previous tenants had destroyed?? HOW do you destroy a porch?? HOW do you let tenants live there for 9 months without paying rent? Apparnetly she had let both happen and was now paying the price... So its back to the drawing board... and frustration continues.. We have found one place we like ... we dont LOVE it... but we like it... so how do you know? how do you decide whats okay ... seeing that im a libra and THE MOST INDECISIVE PERSON EVER (ask my poor husband!) we're at some crossroads on how to decide where to go from here.

having said that -- if those of you around us know of any places for rent - a single family house for rent - as we want to buy the end of next year - PLEASE let us know... 3 bedrooms please :)

ugh, back to the search... any suggestions?!

so frustrating.

3 new friends and a day in Boston...

2008-01-05T08:18:00.000-05:00

I was lucky enough to spend the day with 3 other wonderful photographers in Boston yesterday. Melissa Jill who I've admired for a long time - an amazing photographer from AZ, and fellow Bostonians James Federico and Bob Pattison. I picked Melissa up and headed into the city - we parked (not before she was shocked at the cost of parking in the city!! - welcome to boston!) and walked a couple blocks to Qunicy Market where we met up with James and Bob. Who doesn't love a good trip into the food court of Fanueil Hall! We talked over lunch about the industry and how different things seem to be on the West Coast and the East Coast. Generally speaking, the East Coast isn't as open about sharing and helping one another - I am lucky enough to have blessed friends like the Tirados but without them I wouldnt know too many other people in the industry in the area. Lucky for me I have two new friends, James and Bob, and lucky for all of you we're going to try our hardest to swing the pendileim. After lunch we headed around the city for a bit of a tour for Melissa. Bob and I were joking about how when you live somewhere you actually forget to really look around a lot of the time!

Melissa was sweet enough to take a couple pictures of us hangin' -- you can see the rest of her shots on her blog

Melissa - thank you so much for making the time to meet a girl from boston who comments on your blog! You are just as sweet as I knew you would be! I look forward to next years visit if not before :)

James - It's so nice to put a face to a name! I'm really excited that we're in the same boat and are looking for the same type of people to share ideas and knowledge with. We'll definitely be in touch soon :)

Bob - I'm so glad you decided to make the trip in! It was wonderful to spend the day chit-chatting about our towns as well as photography. I may just take you up on the idea to second shoot sometime! As I said to James, we'll definitely be in touch!

Thank you all for engaging me and answering all my questions - You guys rock!

I 'borrowed' these shots from Melissa's blog instead of taking a picture with each of our cameras -- Hope thats okay girlie!

Enjoy the rest of your trip in NH!

Hugs....

"Meno"..... aka Nemo.

2008-01-02T21:00:00.000-05:00

Don't say I didn't warn ya! You might pee your pants.

This past sunday we were asked to accompany Aunty Shelly, Cousins Katie, Meg and their two friends to see FINDING NEMO ON ICE!!! At first I was a bit hesitant seeing as Jackson has never seen Finding Nemo let alone the fact that he doesnt sit still. ever. But Rick and I decided - hey its worth a shot!.... Well, like usual, that little man surprised us and he LOVED it!! He didnt even move off our laps!! He almost jumped out of his skin when Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Goofy came on stage. He couldn't call out their names fast enough... it was so cute!

We had a $10 limit when we went. Seeing as thats how much a bag of cotton candy costs we decided it was worth our one ticket item we agreed to... LUCKY for us it came with a Nemo hat!!! Good thing we have something to show for the $10 bag of cotton candy... (HIGH WAY ROBBERY I TELL YOU!!) anyways -- Jackson has been running around yelling "Meno" since we got home.. too bad the poor kid doesn't even know what it is!! haha...

At any rate- we were playing before it was bedtime this evening and he picked up the hat to wear.... if only you could hear him YELL "MENO" while it was on....

Thanks Aunty Shelly, Katie and Meg- - we had a ball!!!

Man I love that little boy!!!!

hugs,
k

shamless plug

2008-01-02T19:50:00.001-05:00

or at least hope for encouragement!

decided to give myself a challenge.... my dear friend and mentor wendy does a photo-a-day blog... it was so great to follow her adventures throughout the whole year... so yep! you guessed it...taking on the adventure myself...

bookmark or sign up for the feed here:
http://keripad08.wordpress.com/

and for what its worth -- i LOVE wordpress blogs.... we might be making a jump over there in the near future... thats still up for debate :) dont worry -- everything here will still be there too! :)

hugs..
k

ps. hold me accountable if you're so inclined! the more harassment i get the more likely i am to keep up! :)

a few more favorites from the zoo last week!

2007-12-31T21:39:00.001-05:00

had a few minutes to post a few more from last week's zoo trip...

hugs...

Jack and his elephant hat ready to take on the zoo!

Cousin Logan and HIS cool hat!!

He loved the elephants! He was even trying to yell with excitement despite the mouthful of goldfish!

Jackson loves his Daddy!

Rhinos!!

more for you uncle randy...

2007-12-30T22:07:00.000-05:00

here are a few more for uncle randy!!!

is that face the cutest or what!

look out randy -- you're in trouble when shes a teenager!! (check out logan in the back! hahaha)

Grams and her first two grandbabies!!

Sissa and Grams..

Logie and Sissa - love this shot!

a day at the zoo!

2007-12-27T21:35:00.000-05:00

we spent the day at the jacksonville zoo -- it was awesome!! we had the best time -- too much to write about now but heres a peak of the little man...

what a face right!

hope you're all enjoying the week!

xoxo
k

A few more from the cousins

2007-12-26T21:19:00.000-05:00

... the day after christmas is always a fun day... everyone gets to play with their new toys ... relax and just take it easy... the craziness is over and the fun begins!

here are a few shots from today while the kids were playing outside.. thats right - outside without winter hats and coats! i guess thats what you do in December in Florida :)

Uncle Randy -- we hope these get you through... we sure do miss you! stay safe out there...

lots of hugs and love...

us

jackson enjoying his Christmas dinner... notice the nice clothes were removed.... good thing since mashed potatoes ended up everywhere!

grouchy face jackson and sweet cousin logan!

chasing daddy

best buddies!

Uncle Rick, cousins Logan, Alyssa and Jackson

so sweet

love these guys!

don't you want to pinch those cheeks!

These three are for you Randy -- We're going to do some more tomorrow but we were losing light tonight! I couldnt decide which I liked best so you get all three! They were yelling 'We love you Daddy!!!"

color

black and white

the best of friends!

Family Day!

2007-12-25T20:50:00.000-05:00

Jackson finally got to meet cousins Logan and Alyssa -- They were so cute together - they played all afternoon and just loved being together. Here are a few quick shots of everyone playing..

We had a great day - Its a bit different celebrating Christmas surrounded by Palm Trees instead of Pine Trees but we were with wonderful company and thats what made it Christmas! :)

Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas!

Hugs and love to all of you...

xoxo

Logan and Alyssa meet Jackson for the first time!!

A Jackson sandwich!!

Jackson telling Alyssa a funny story -- what a coy face!

Cousin Alyssa!

Cousin Logan playing on the new air hockey table!!!!

all done!

2007-12-22T19:43:00.001-05:00

How do you tell mom you're finished with your macaroni and cheese while she walks 3 feet away to get more apple juice?

...

....

......

Oh you put the entire plate on your head of course!!!!

that silly bear!!!
(and oh how serious too!! haha...)

had to snap it!

time flies...

2007-12-21T20:14:00.000-05:00

..can you believe this was a year ago!??!?! some days it seems like forever ago, other days it feels like just yesterday!

my little baby is becoming such a grown up boy!!! where does the time go....

::mommy moment::

xoxo

too cute!

2007-12-20T22:29:00.000-05:00

this little man keeps us laughing...

just a few tubby time shots from this evening!

Grams sent us an early christmas present -- Jackson's ANYWHERE CHAIR FROM POTTERYBARN!!!!! can you tell how excited we are?!?!?! (okay, how excited I am!!) the cover hasnt come yet but jackson was helping unpack the inside part and boy did he think it was funny!!

and one more bath shot -- who wears Mickey Mouse sunglasses in the bath?????

my son. :)

Hugs,
K

We heart Sean Jr. :)

2007-12-19T20:32:00.000-05:00

we finally had the chance to meet our newest friend in the K's household...

we're going to do a real newborn shoot later but since I had my camera (of course!) I had to snap a few today...

here are two that struck me as I was importing them onto the computer...

B - we are so proud of you! Thanks for letting us take over your house today -- Can't wait to finally play weekly in January!!

We love you...xoox

k

Mom has worn these rosary beads throughout the entire pregnancy -- when they fell this way on baby Sean - I HAD to grab it! so special....

look at that little face... can you even believe the cuteness!!!!

stay tuned.... **muah!!**

a few random pictures for my bloggin' friends!

2007-12-18T23:43:00.000-05:00

things have been crazy between holiday shopping, finishing up the last of client orders and trying to get ready for our trip to florida!...

in the midst of it all I've been really trying to make an effort to capture the moments in my own family lately...

just for fun here are a few that I took over the last day or so...

yesterday at dinner... Praying (VERY DIRTY!!!) hands...

Remember my favorite neighbors.... i might like them a TINY bit less after this 'GIFT' they let Jackson borrow.... Santa. Cute right? no. NOT REALLY. It plays 'Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree'..... and Santa shakes his hips dancing back and forth... it plays ON REPEAT. OVER AND OVER AND OVER AGAIN. DID I MENTION IT PLAYS ON REPEAT? unless you unplug it of course. which we do. until jackson realizes its NOT playing. he then brings Santa over to you until you plug it back in. The boy could be playing clear across the room and not want anything to do with Santa singing and dancing but as SOON as you turn it off -- oh it starts RIGHT back up again.... D and Paul.. we love you but you might be getting a Secret Santa back PRETTY SOON! haha (just kidding!! its actually kind of cute.. and jackson does love it so we love it too... i swear.) :)

I give you ONE guess to Remember our beautiful REAL awesome christmas tree Jackson picked out... do you see it? yes, its in there, it just took on a new form of Charlie Brown's Christmas Tree. Between Jackson RAMMING his Pooh Bear airplane into the tree - throwing puzzle pieces as if he wanted them to hang on as ornaments - putting his head against it because he thinks its hysterical??? (weirdo!) -- our beautiful little tree has turned into this....................poor thing!

Play-dough Piggies!! I know I'll look back at this one day and say 'remember when...' we've been playing playdough lately but jackson really doesnt like it??? what kid doesnt like playdough? that and finger paint?

Spent the morning baking some christmas gifts for friends....
beginning.....

middle....

mmmm... middle still....

End!!

and after a busy day........saying our prayers before bed...

hope you're enjoying the holidays with your loved ones!!!

hugs,
k

one more week of snow.. the sunshine!!!!!!

2007-12-15T23:19:00.000-05:00

we have another week of snow before we get to spend a week in sunny florida... not only do we get to spend the week in sunny florida but we get to visit with Grams, Grandpa Pete, Cousins Logan and Alyssa and Aunt Shelly.... and on top of THAT we get to visit with our good friends Courtney and Jonny!! should you be in the jacksonville area or even close by - and want to schedule a mini shoot you can email me and we'll see what we can do ... :)

can't wait!!!
hugs,
k

playing in the snow take two!

2007-12-14T22:35:00.000-05:00

so we headed out to play in the snow WITH mittens that stayed on and some sunlight! (as always - click on the image to make it larger!)

as you can tell - we sure got a decent amount of snow -- especially when its compared to a little almost 19 month old little boy :)

check it out for yourself...

watching the plow early in the morning clear some of the snow from our parking lot!

can't take his eyes off it!

what kind of face do you get when the plow goes away? (or just around the building?!)............

Oh don't worry - he came back! :)

after watching the plow we headed to our weekly "Little Gym" class... Not sure what was in Jacksons breakfast but he was a MADMAN there today! Running around crazy -- although I guess thats the best place to burn that energy right! hehe..

the cutest piggies ever on the balance beam!

crackin' up at the little gym!

'mom -- they stopped blowing bubbles.' :(

so after "The Little Gym" - lunch and a short nap .. we decided to venture out! :).....

our little snowman! hehe...

hmm not falling from the sky anymore??...

"this is FUN????????????? liars."

check out how deep it is - its up to his little knees.... which made walking difficult ;) poor little bear... hehe...

"Dad, what is a snowball???"

hahahah - snowballs are funny!! 'you got me dad!'

'TWO elmo mittens?!?!? COOL" -- I wish you could hear him says 'COOL'.. its a riot!!

haha i LIKE snowballs!!

so there ya go!

check back tomorrow for more updates!!

Off to get Rick some medicine as he is starting to get a yucky cold :( got any good sinus/cold remedy suggestions?! Send 'em over!!

Hugs!!

K

so many updates to come in the next few days...

2007-12-13T23:15:00.001-05:00

i have been crazy busy with so much to do i havent had time to update over the last few weeks..

i will be backlogging some images from different sessions to keep you caught up!

thanks for checking in and being such loyal blog readers!!

big hugs!!
xoox
k

Welcome to the World Sean Jr!

2007-12-13T20:29:00.001-05:00

Our amazing friends Bethany and Sean welcomed a new baby boy to the world last week... Bethany emailed out some pictures and I havent had the chance to take any for myself just yet but heres a peak at just how adorable he is!! I can't wait to get my lens on him :) hehe... Get ready Sean Jr.... I'm coming for you!!!

Congrats Bethany, Sean, Mitchie and Aidan -- We love you all so much and can't wait to play soon -- look out - we'll be bringing dinner over soon...

Blessings and love to all of you....

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow...

2007-12-13T20:14:00.000-05:00

....thats the theme song of the day!... holy moly its been a mess out there!

they said yesterday 1-3 inches of snow... today we somehow jumped to 6-8 inches and all of a sudden they just said it could be up to 10 inches!?!??! par for the course in new england eh?! :)

Well of course we had to test it all out. We got Jackson his snow gear a few weeks back... the boots (which you may have seen in the fashion statement post below..) a new jacket and new snow pants from l.l. bean so we'd be all ready when the snowfall would arrive. Lucky for us we had a chance to test it out this evening...

What we didn't account for is that Jackson does NOT like mittens! So while he walked out into the snow for a few quick moments he seemed to be loving it .. until the front face tumble which pushed his hands into 5 inches of snow. the fun quickly ended. we headed back inside to warm up those little hands after 30 seconds of pure snow bliss. hopefully tomorrow WITH mittens ON will be a better story!

After heading inside and warming up real quick we had to stop for a visit at our favorite neighbors in the whole world. Donna and Paul- as Jackson says 'D and Paul' :) We are so incredibly lucky. Lord knows how we ended up with two of the sweetest people in the whole world living next to US, but boy are we thankful. Jackson has made it a habit knocking on their door every time we come into the building. If we don't stop, he screams "D, PAUL" down the hallway. knocking is much less disruptive.
So we stopped in and little bear makes himself RIGHT at home. He knocks on the door and of course because they are the sweetest, they always invite us in. Jackson takes his jacket of and walks straight over to the toys they are kind enough to leave out. Their adorable grand-daughter is just a few months younger then Jackson so we are very grateful they keep such fun toys around for her - and Jackson just keeps them dusted off for that princess while she's not visiting! At any rate, we had a great visit (of course!) and then headed back to our place for dinner, snuggles and bedtime. Thank you D and Paul for letting us invade you once again. We are so blessed to have you in our lives and love you both so much! (If/) When we move don't you worry - we'll be dropping in like we still live here - and we definitely expect you to do the same. no questions asked! We're so grateful for all you do for us but most important, we're grateful for your friendship - thanks for being the best neighbors in the whole wide world!! BIG HUGS.

so here are some quick shots from this evenings adventures.....I picked up the ol' Rebel for some shots in the snow... it sure was coming down fast out there! (Just FYI: this will give you an idea about how people were moving today... we were out of coffee filters and I HAD to get them so I jumped in the car for a quick trip to the store which is maybe 3/4 of a mile away (a 1-2 minute drive) from our house... ONE hour and 17 minutes later I returned home. apparently everyone forgot how to drive in snow?)

heading outside all bundled up... poor scooter came too but we have to get him a coat since he just got his haircut too and has nothing to keep him warm! poor scoot!!!

LOOK HOW COLD IT IS!!...... just kidding.. just playing with a little post processing!! haha.

touching the COLD snow....

.."oooouuuhhhhhhh snoooowwwww"

back inside - playing at Donna and Paul's house!

funny stories to come soon

2007-12-07T23:49:00.000-05:00

...too late to post it tonight but just you want... funny stories to come tomorrow..

stay tuned!!!!

hugs..
k

christmas card out-take..

2007-12-03T22:06:00.001-05:00

what kind of face do you get when you take away the candy cane after the christmas card picture session is over?

jackson was MAD at mommy!!

too cute not to share...

oohhh he's so mad!

:)

I could pinch he's cheeks!!!

xoxo
k

happy marriage

2007-12-01T21:47:00.001-05:00

so this on another blog... thought it was cute!

1. Start each day with a kiss.
2. Wear your wedding ring at all times.
3. Date once a week.
4. Accept differences.
5. Be polite.
6. Be gentle.
7. Give gifts.
8. Smile often.
9. Touch.
10. Talk about dreams.
11. Select a song that can be "our Song".
12. Give back rubs.
13. Laugh together.
14. Send a card for no reason.
15. Do what the other person wants before he or she asks.
16. Listen.
17. Encourage.
18. Do it his or her way.
19. Know his or her needs.
20. Fix the other person's breakfast.
21. Compliment twice a day.
22. Call during the day.
23. Slow down.
24. Cuddle.
25. Ask for each other's opinion.
26. Show respect.
27. Welcome the other person home.
28. Look your best.
29. Wink at each other.
30. Celebrate birthdays in a big way.
31. Apologize.
32. Forgive.
33. Set up a romantic getaway as a surprise.
34. Ask, "What can I do to make you happier?".
35. Be positive.
36. Be kind.
37. Be vulnerable.
38. Respond quickly to the other person's request.
39. Talk about your love.
40. Treat each other's friends and relatives with courtesy.
41. Send flowers every Valentine's Day and anniversary and every once and a while an average day just because.
42. Admit when wrong.
43. Be sensitive to each other's sexual desires.
44. Pray for each other daily.
45. Watch sunsets together.
46. Say "I love you" frequently.
47. End the day with a hug.
48. Seek outside help when needed

all i want for christmas...

2007-12-01T09:12:00.000-05:00

is my two front teeth!

just kidding. :)

well its that time of year and everyone seems to be asking 'what do you want for christmas!' .. not sure i NEED anything but of course there are plenty of things i'd love to have! to be honest id much rather spend money on others.. christmas as become so much more then what we want... its about what Jackson wants now! Not to mention how excited I am to see his face christmas morning :) But for what its worth -- here's a few things on the list this year...

The Six Million Dollar Crumpler Camera Bag

This bag rocks as far as camera bags go. There are tons out there and I'm sure all are great - I use a diaper bag right now (true mom fashion right! - But really its been great!) but as I'm discovering its not as insulated as I thought and I worry for the safety of my lenses! I use my awesome shootsac when shooting by transporting my gear and all.. the crumpler rocks. Even just to hold my camera when we're doing family stuff -thats another big problem! I'd love to just be able to grab it and go!

Isn't it so pretty!! 85mm 1.8 lens.

I hear amazing things about this lens.. well, the 1.2 is supposed to be unbelievable but seeing as thats WAY more pricey and I don't NEED it right now, I think the 1.8 is juuuust fine! so pretty right!

Of course there are just too many fun things out there.. so this is always a great choice!
B&H Photo Gift Card

and then of course after all of those work things (which really isnt work and is so much fun!!) you'd need some relaxing things right....

Toasty Toes

cozy toesy in these fleece slippers.. someone wore my awesome ugg slippers in the snow and they are a tiny bit ruined although i still wear them.. these have a sole that you CAN wear outside.. nothing fancy but good enough for these toes!

Now, what is better then being treated like a Super Star at a beautiful Spa?!
Maison Esthetique Christiane Bourque Spa is heaven on Earth!

I have only had a handful of massages in my life - all while i was pregnant and it was heavenly. If you are local and looking for a gift for someone - GO HERE. you feel like royalty and forget allllll about the outside world. Hubby hates massages so he won't be getting this - but i wish he liked 'em!!

Thats about it for me...I LOVE stockings though. Its my favorite part of christmas I think.. I love finding cool little things for other people to put in their stockings! Sometimes you can hide the best gifts in there! Rick did that a few years ago - put a piece of jewelry in there -- who expects that in a stocking?!?! I can't wait to see what I can find this year for him and jackson - what are your favorite stocking ideas? :)

.......................
So whats on the little bear's christmas list... well we've already got some Thomas the Train stuff, Grow with me Little Tykes Basketball hoop, and a few odds and ends. Here are a few of the yet to get things.... given the fact that he's still so little, we could get away with what we have already! he is happy with the box stuff comes in but thats no fun!!! heres whats on the wish list...

Pottery Barn Anywhere Chair

Of course we will get Red with 'Jackson' in white... ohio state and all! He has outgrown his little green chair but loves to sit in it! this chair rocks - I can't wait to see him in it!

Leap Frog Phoics Magnetic Letter Set

Some friends have this and jackson loves it!

Adorable Lands End Slippers

Like mommy, like son, always cold piggies!! how cute are these!! and they'll even stay on!!!

L.L.Bean Pull Sled

we played at our friends house last year in the snow with this and it was awesome! jackson could hardly sit up then and he loved it - imagine this year!? you can even have it engraved- isn't that so cool!!

Giggle and Go Elmo Tool Bench

So sad. We can't find this anywhere! A few of our friends have it and Jackson LOVES to play with it - we thought we purchased it on ebay till the seller sucked and didnt end up actually having it. thanks for nothing.

Now.. thats the mommy and the little bear... what does daddy want?! we're still waiting to find out... daddy never wants anything special - says he'd rather spend the money on jacksonbear.. but its Christmas Daddy! You know we're going to get you something anyways so you might as well tell us what you want!...

Stay tuned.. maybe this post will spur some ideas..... right baby!??!?!

Happy Shopping ... Let the Chaos Begin!!!!

Hugs,
K

sap.

2007-12-01T00:19:00.000-05:00

yes, thats right. i am a sappy sap sap. just about as sappy as they come. cry at everything - total hopeless romantic. wear my heart on my sleeve. you know the deal :)

this is a clip from my most favorite book that was turned into a movie just a few years ago. If you want to read a book that just melts your heart - go to your closest barnes and noble and get the notebook by nicholas sparks - i have to say, most times i hate when books become movies but even though i LOVE this book - i actually really liked the movie!.. and i really like noah!! ;)

get any nicholas sparks book for that matter. i love his work - cant get enough of it really. im excited once things slow down here in a few weeks to actually get back to READING - i've missed the last few books and im just dying to get back to them! i dont know what it is about him but i just adore his writing... check him out - fast reads, amazing stories. you'll love it.

crazy that a sweet friend of mine put this up on her blog... i just said to the hubby... 'want to watch the notebook tonight?'.... he said 'not so much' so it was back to work for me! But lucky for me I came online and saw that this clip was waiting for me! i didnt even know this was online but i had to share it since my girl courtney had it up too!! weird right - does weird stuff like that ever happen to you?... strange!!

Hope you are enjoying your Friday night.. about one more week of craziness and then its back to family stuff :) can't wait!!!! i miss my boys....

hope you're all well...

hugs,
K

Check out this video: the notebook

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::sigh:: dont you just LOVE them!!.. no go rent the whole movie - i know you'll want to see it after that clip!!!!!! :)

Jolly?

2007-11-28T21:59:00.000-05:00

somebody didn't want to get his Christmas picture taken!!!

OH the horror!!!!

I've had so many holiday sessions lately - its been so much fun! I'm sure I will end up back blogging but the next week and a half is straight out so bear with me!

it was just too cute not to post! i had to share it! :)

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree...

2007-11-27T22:38:00.000-05:00

**insert Charlie Brown singing**

Ohhhhhh its my FAVORITE time of the year - thats right- Christmas time! I LOVE this time of year - I don't know why really - maybe because something about it just feels... magical? The only thing i don't like about it how RUDE people get. Sometimes you can find a glimpse of the kindness and giving that this season is truly about - but more often then not, you run into people who are in a hurry, to busy to listen, look or pay attention. A sweet friend of mine Andrea just did the most amazing thing - You can read about it on her blog but something similar (okay not really but almost!) happened to me a few days ago...

I stopped at Panera to get a coffee. There was a BIG line but i figured, hey its okay i'll wait. The place was packed people couldnt move - you would have thought it was the last meal they were ever going to serve. But I waited anyway. While in line -given that i was standing by the door - i held the door for everyone who came in or was going out. No big deal right? wouldn't anyone do that? apparently not - as soon as the line moved up - i didnt see a single person behind me open or even hold the door for a stranger. so sad. so then i was finally up to the front and the manager jumped in - 'Can I help you?' she asked. "I'd just like a medium coffee to go please" - she was so funny! Her response was "You waited in that big long line JUST for a coffee to go?! -- You're all set - no charge -have a great day!" I was so grateful and must have said thank you 100 times. Maybe she was just having a good day - maybe she was just trying to do a good job at what she does - or maybe she just wanted to speed the line up!? :) Whatever it was, it made me smile - it made me want to go do something nice! well as luck would have it - an elderly woman was trying to figure out the coffee station - I asked her if she needed some help and I poured her cream and coffee for her - she was so sweet and so grateful . It's such a nice feeling to GIVE - isn't it?! I only gave her 2 mintues of my time, but i know she had been standing there for 10 minutes before I stepped up - had nobody seen her? did nobody want to help her? so sad. Just as she was about to leave, I put a few dashes of cinnamon in my coffee - she shreiked "You put PEPPER in your COFFEE!????" haha.. we both had a giggle when i told her what it was - she was just a sweetheart. Well the day up until those 15 minutes in Panera was chaos - running from one place to another until I was forced to slow down and REALLY look around. It made me so sad to see just how many strangers walked by situations where they could help. If you could help a stranger would you? do you? do you notice people who need help? Generally, I really try to pay attention to strangers around me - especially lately, after all this is the season of giving, right!?

Whoa, tangent. :)

Back to the blog - At any rate - its the holiday season and I'm so excited. I LOVE the smell of our christmas tree and wreath on our door. Theres nothing like it :) Second to that is a funny little boy named Jackson walking around the house saying "Ho, Ho, Ho...." hahaha... its going to be a fun christmas!

Here are a few shots from picking out our tree this evening -- I can't believe he is big enough to pick out our tree this year!! Last year he was perched like a bird on our shoulders :) hehe.. wow time flies.

Happy Holiday season -and when you're out there at crazy hours shopping or trying to find a parking spot -- try to remember what this is really about anyways!

Daddy and Jackson

Have to wear the Santa Hat!

Look at that little face! Dirty Dirty but still so cute!

Checking things out...

"Hmm... is THAT the one?!'

Muah!

Hugs for Mommy!

"I bet they can't see me over HERE!"

"Let me check things out down here.."

"Hmm this feels about the right height!"

"Hey Mom and Dad, I found our tree!!!" (No Joke! Thats the one we bought!!)

one more lap around just to be sure....

Thanks for stopping by!

Holiday Blessings to you......

Hugs,
K

Today I am Thankful for...

2007-11-22T23:06:00.000-05:00

this...

On this thanksgiving i have so many amazing things to be thankful for. I could list many many things but i'll keep it to a few...

1. my amazing wonderful husband - without your love and support i wouldn't be half of where i am/who i am today. Every day I am thankful I get to spend my life with my best friend!
2. my beautiful unbelievable son - you are the light of my life and i am so proud to be your mommy - thank you for choosing me!
3. my fantastic family who has helped me become who i am and has given me love, strength and guidance always.
4. my very special true friends - you know who you are and i know how grateful i am for you - thank you for always being there and for all the awesome memories we've created!
5. my health, the health of our family and all of our friends.
6. my faith - without my faith i wouldnt be anywhere!
7. my amazing photography teachers and friends - without you i know i wouldn't be following my dream - you have given me more then i could have ever dreamed of - i will always be grateful for your open hearts and precious friendships.
8. and last but not least, my awesome clients who have been so good to me this year. I cannot thank you enough for sharing special moments in your life with me - I am honored t be a part of each and every one of your families. I am so blessed to have met you all!

I have so many amazing things to be grateful for but if I wrote them all here we'd be here for days - so I kept it simple :)

We spent the day with our entire family - everyone - together! We are so blessed to have so many people in our family to celebrate with. Thank you all for being there - everything was wonderful and it was so much fun to all be together! Between 'strawberries' on the cheesecake and 'antioxident' drinks - we had a day full of laughter .... and what more can you ask for?

We love you all... here are some favorites....

CLICK HERE for the slideshow of the day... (***NOTE*** I put them all up so i KNOW there are a lot of Jackson but I just kept them all together -- Don't say I didnt warn ya!)

Fairytale...

2007-11-21T09:19:00.000-05:00

this was passed on to me as a forward and i thought it was pretty funny! haha..

A good morning smile...

2007-11-20T09:55:00.000-05:00

just a few from one of my favorite times the day.. good morning!!

i could just eat him up!!!

My lovebug..

JAIL!!!

You're SO funny mom and dad!!!

and of course - every morning the same thing -- the sign for drink!!!!

A Medical Building?

2007-11-18T21:39:00.000-05:00

Yep! That's right! Who would have thought, right?! Well, this ever so cute family had the great idea of going to a medical office building where Dad works. As soon as we walked in, I knew just how much fun it was going to be! What is better then looking out over Boston through a hallway of windows - and the best part was it was sunset so the reflection of the sun was coming into the hallway from all the windows on the surrounding buildings! yep that made one happy photographer :)

Anyways - back to this scrumpcious cutie pie. Jackson may just have a future wife ladies and gentlemen! She is a pretty one! As if it wasn't good enough that she was so cute and so well behaved, but mom and dad were the sweetest little southern things I've ever met! I love when I get to meet new people and there is just something about that southern accent that makes me feel like we're already friends! haha :)

I should have known the first time I spoke with mom that it was going to be so much fun! I'm just glad after changing our minds so many times we ended up with the best location!

Here's your sneak peak guys - Thanks for letting me share in some of your family memories- I had a great time and I hope you did too!

Hugs,
K

Can you stand it!

Nothing like your little one running at you with arms wide open :)

Now check out these shoes. Cute right? cute is only half of it - they SQUEEK too! Thats right, every time this peanut walked there was a little squeek from her shoes!! It was awesome!!! If only I could get Jackson a pair - then I'd always know what Denis the Menace was up to!!!

Bubbles!!!!!!

And just before heading out - bundled up for the cold weather!

We'll be in touch soon guys!!
xoxo

Go Bucks!

2007-11-18T13:00:00.000-05:00

Rick and Jackson watched the big game together! All ready in in the jersey's and everything! (even M&M's all over the face to celebrate the win!) Yay!!!!! (You should have heard him - everytime Rick would yell at the t.v. Jackson was right there yelling too! It was a riot -- He even started yelling "Bbbbbbbbbb....' for Beanie - one of the players names! haha...

Touchdown!!!!!

And even a little time for books :) (thats my boy!!!!!)

After that and it was time for clean up before bedtime Jackson decided it was time to put on his brand new winter boots we got on Friday. Check out this new style! Lookout ladies... he's got some serious fashion sense!

**I wish you could hear the giggle with this picture!!

awww... nice kisses for the crayola markers -- he's a great staller before bed!!

thats all for now..

back to the grind tomorrow...

hugs,
k

Look out Ladies!

2007-11-17T23:49:00.001-05:00

Ohhhh boy look out for this one! He is one handsome little man, isn't he!! He is my good friend Heather's son and don't you just want to take him home! When I tell you I wanted to move into her house as soon as I saw the light, I'm not kidding! Ohhh it was beautiful!

My little buddy T was awesome- he was crackin' that smile and reading books with me - he was too cute! You would have thought he was as model with the looks he was flashing me - those eyes are killer!!! And if you could hear that giggle... it melts your heart! He's just a few months older than Jackson and we have a playdate coming up soon so they can finally get together! The last time they got together Jackson was a tiny little baby!!

Thanks so much for letting me share in a few of your family memories! I'm sorry it took a little longer then I had hoped to get your sneak peak up- but I promise it won't be long before you see the rest of them :) Can't wait to get together soon... We're coming over!!!!

Hugs and kisses...

K

The Little Man at The Little Gym :)

2007-11-16T23:31:00.000-05:00

I can't believe how long its been since I've picked the camera up for my own little bear! I feel like the camera hasn't left my hands lately but (I am so embarrassed to say!) I haven't taken any recent pictures of Jackson in the last week or so!!! Can you believe that? I was so sad when I realized it last night. Soooo of course I needed to make up for that today... and boy did we ever!

Friday is our class at The Little Gym and it definitely is one of Jackson's favorite places to go. He runs around their like a MAD MAN and has the time of his life for 45 minutes. If you have little ones and want a fun class for them to make friends and learn some great skills check it out - Its a great program. Today was Jackson's lucky day too - He was picked to demonstrate the skill today -- Wait till you see those pictures tomorrow!

I had to post one but stay tuned for the other 38 tomorrow!! :)

Isn't that face just the cutest!!!!! Look how proud he is of himself! haha....

We love you Jackson David!
xoxo

Mom and Dad.

So far behind, but had to share this face!

2007-11-15T21:32:00.000-05:00

I second shot another wedding last weekend and the weekend before with my friend Jim Canole. This is from the wedding two weeks ago - there was a little boy who was the same age as Jackson. LIKE I wasn't drawn to him ALL night?!?!? He was so stinkin cute - and quite a flirt I have to say! Jim was shooting some of the bridal party while this little man sat so patiently on the steps until his mommy and daddy (who were part of the wedding party) were finished. Good boy, right! Jackson would have been down the street and around the corner!!! :)

Hope to be updating a lot soon! :)

Hugs,
k

Holiday Card Templates

2007-11-13T21:57:00.000-05:00

They're HERE! Finally I had a few minutes to get them online for you all -- Sorry for the delay!

CLICK HERE to see the templates and feel free to email me with any questions or concerns!!!

Note - All the templates are put on a white background on this slideshow in order to place a number on each card. Holiday cards are NOT printed on the large white background - it was just a way to list each one to make it easy for you! Feel free to email me the NUMBER of the template you would like to use and we'll go from there! (in red on the top of each slide) You can also click on the little gallery button under the slideshow on the right in order to see them layed out!

Enjoy!

Blessings,

K

Trash the Dress!

2007-11-08T22:19:00.000-05:00

..okay maybe just get it dirty!

I had a beautiful bride ask me if I would do a trash the dress session with her since she wasn't very happy with her wedding day photos! with a pretty girl and a beautiful fall day, how could i say no! **Note - to those of you who are wondering what 'trash the dress' means - its a way for brides to have some fun in their wedding gown. It is by no means a way to disrespect their wedding day or husband - its just a fun photography session after the wedding day that allows for some fun portraits without the stress of wedding day timing and the worry about getting the gown dirty! My beautiful bride today didn't want to get her dress wet like so many sessions she had seen (in the ocean or a lake - and i dont blame her!) so we went to a local farm/park and had some fun in the leaves and had some pretty light. The poor thing must have been FREEZING but she was such a trooper and made for such an awesome session. Thanks girl - You rocked!

As for other recent posts - I have been slacking I know - the little one was sick - that nasty throw up thing - and now he has a horrible cold - is it really only the beginning of winter!?!?!?.. anyways - i have lots of things to post - I will be better soon I promise ;) This fall has been a whirlwind!!!!! whew.

Check out our session -- comments always welcomed!

Hugs,
K

a hidden treasure...

2007-11-03T12:02:00.000-04:00

Lately Jackson has been more into 'playing music' (pots and pans style!) so most everyday allllll my pots and pans get taken out and he even stacks them back - Daddy may have helped stack these, I'm not sure, but needless to say - I opened the cabinet to get a pan today and this is what I found....

who knows where the 'Parents Outlet Covers' package and local take out menu (pink) came from too???

Oh the joys of my little bear!

Happy Saturday! :)

K

Psyched!!!

2007-10-31T23:03:00.000-04:00

Think someone was a bit excited over this whole 'trick-or-treat' thing!?

Jackson was hysterical! He walked right up to all the doors in our building and knocked (with two hands!!) on the door and waited patiently until someone came. When they opened the door they got a big 'ol Jackson smile and who could resist that face! So two hands into the candy basket and then off and running... oh and a half way sign of 'thank you' as he walked away too!

oh my little bear is growing up too fast!

what a funny little guy!!

Hope everyone had a safe and Happy Halloween!!

This was the first door we went to - our neighbors to the right - sweet elderly couple. Check out his face when he scores two pieces of candy!!!!! haha....

p.s. and yes, that is a sand bucket- hey we still have some left from his birthday party, alright!!! :)
Hugs,
K

Boo!

2007-10-31T22:39:00.001-04:00