Boudoir and empowering women...

Until today you may have come to my blog & website to view my work, read my posts, or simply get to know me a little better? And if you read a posting a few months back about a beautiful woman who hired me for a boudoir photo shoot as a surprise for her husband, today that post has been erased, and it makes me very sad to even have to write that fact. Let me explain just why...

When I decided to offer boudoir it came after a lot of thoughts, opinions and decision making. Not because of how I felt about it, but because of what others say about it. I've heard statements like "Its too personal." Or, " Im not comfortable taking those types of images." but what are "those types"? Nudes? Risqué? Pornographic? And those exact statements I suppose is what pushed me even further into the need to offer this style portraits? There is a difference between "Artistic Nudes" and "Pornographic" style photography.
Now let's not get all emotional about this statement because to many people, pornography can also be looked at in an artistic manner. But that is not exactly the look I am going for when I speak with a woman, or even a couple, in regards to the session they are about to purchase.
Boudoir, to me, is about empowerment. It's about stepping outside your comfort zone and embarking upon a journey of the soul. It's about forgetting those photoshop images we all admire in the magazines and no longer comparing ourselves with those women. Or men for that matter. Those images are not real. They have been manipulated to within a fraction of who that person really is. They are there to sell a product, to evoke an emotion, stir a fantasy. But it's not reality.
Now, with that said... I am not claiming that they are not beautiful. Or that I don't, or have not, done the same thing to my own images if that's what the client requests. But it's not where my heart is. Where my heart is, is to give back to women. To get them out of their box, if only for an afternoon. To allow them to feel beautiful no matter what their body type. What their size might be, hair color might be, breast size/waist size might be. And to aid them in seeing themselves in a whole new light. To appreciate those things that they seem to gravitate towards... Like their stretch marks. Or their butt dimples. And I say this because those are the things that are beautiful! Those stretch marks came from a new life that you and the man you love created. Those dimples show that you've lived. Those breast, that might not be as perky as they once were, fed another human being. So be proud!
In fact... Stand on a mountain top and shout it out to the world!!!! You are beautiful, you are amazing, and you are fearless! Embrace you... ALL of you. Put it on canvas or in a book. And believe me when I tell you just how beautiful you really are.

The client that inspired me to write this is blessed. I mean physically blessed. Photographing here was pure joy and extremely easy. Her body, her face, her emotions were very easy to capture in pictures. And there have been nothing but positive and, at times, envious feedback on them. And at first, she was proud of them too. But somewhere, over these last few months, those feelings of pride and empowerment have been over shadowed by questioning, skepticism, and ultimately fear of posting them online. So I respected her wishes and removed them. All of them. From any public viewing site they had been posted on. And I think it's a shame. Not because they are my images, and personally I am extremely proud of them. But because I feel that somewhere along the line she slipped back into believing what society would have her believe... To be less than confident about herself, and her body.


I never would publish an image without the clients permission, which I was given initially. On that same note, I will never keep those images up if, for whatever reason, a client changes their mind about that decision in the future. Even if legally I have the right to keep them there. It just wouldn't be the right thing to do. And that's not what I am all about.

So if you are reading this my dear client, I want you to know that yes I was hurt. And maybe a little angry at your decision to have them removed... But not for the reasons you may think. I'm hurt because it's just another woman who has conformed to society and it's warped ways. It's another woman who has, for whatever reason, questioned herself and her body. It's another woman who has listened to the opinions of others over her heart, and her soul. And in some small way you just gave up some of your power....

Boudoir is about empowerment. It's about loving ones self. It's what I strive so desperately to give to each and every woman who is on the fence about this style of imagery. And a little part of me just died today knowing that society has taken that away from someone yet again. The decision to do a boudoir shoot is a private one, and there are many reasons why a woman chooses to do it. Just don't allow your decisions to be over shadowed by others labels. Stand up! Be strong! Love yourself! And let's make a change in what society believes is right or wrong. It's your body, your decisions, your right.

Boudoir.... Where loving yourself becomes reality!

Lake Carolina... Our new home~

It's seems like months have past since we first heard of our re-location to Shaw AFB, South Carolina. Time has past by so quickly it's all such a blur now. From the movers to the flight over to our temp housing here on base, to say it's been an adventure has been an understatement. But that which does not kill us surely makes us stronger, and being a military wife is not for the faint at heart. I am blessed that I can draw strength from an amazing husband and wonderful friends. In the end... It has all worked out just as God intended. And it has worked out better than I could have wanted.

My husbands new position is going to be a wonderful challenge and a great move for his career. The only drawback I see could be his frequent TDY assignments. But he will grow so much and have the opportunity to prove his strengths and nurture others in the process. Such a difference from his last duty station. But with his TDY's comes free time for me which means plenty of time to start decorating! Yes, we did our research and decided to take the chance and purchase instead of rent. The market currently is in favor of the buyer, and after researching everything from neighborhoods to school zones, taxes to commute times, our final choice ironically ended up being one of the first homes we looked at. And boy did we steal it!

It's a brand new home in the pre-planned community of Lake Carolina, and it's amazing! With over $33K in custom upgrades and a price reduction of over $65K after the original designers had to pull out of the deal, the builder decided that taking a hit deemed better than sitting on it for yet another month. Upgraded real wood floors, upgraded espresso cabinets and black granite throughout. Wainscoting and heavy molding, trey ceilings, jacuzzi tub, fireplace, formal dining, butlers pantry, and theater room over the garage. This home has everything we were in search of and more. So, so much potential! Now, I spend my days browsing Home Depot and watching HGTV. I can't wait to move in. Such an exciting time.

In the middle of all the excitement we have found ourselves planning a trip back to the west coast to see family. An impromptu family reunion per say. We both need the break and the idea of seeing family and friends is also very exciting.

So there it is... The latest adventures of our life. Never a dull moment, and always filled with so much love. I terribly miss my friends I left behind in Germany, but look forward to making some new ones here in the Carolinas.

Here's to the newest chapter in my life!!!

I'm coming home!!!

After many days of frustration and anticipation... I have the final word.

I'M COMING HOME TO THE STATES!!!!!!

Yes folks, out tour in Europe has come to an end and we are coming home, a year early! I am thrilled!!! My hubby talked to all the right people, made all the right moves, took all the right people to lunch??? I'm actually not sure what he did, or how he pulled it off, but he did it. And I am a very happy camper right now!

I know I'm going to catch a lot of grief from those who just don't understand how or why I would want to leave the chance to live in Europe? Well, simply put, I'm an American Baby! I can't help it folks. As screwed up a things may be for us home in the states... there is still nothing like living in the United States. I miss so much about it. And besides, if there is anything that I managed to not check off my bucket list while here, nothing is ever stopping me from returning for a short, enjoyable vacation. :) I just don't have to live here full time.

I think Angelina and Brad have it right. You spend a few months in Europe every year and then come back to the U.S.. You get the good months no matter where you are. But then again, I think they have a few more million than I do! Oh how I envy you A & B!

So... where exactly has Uncle Sam decided on placing us this time??? Well, I'm also happy to say that it is in beautiful South Carolina!!! Where the hills are green, the temps. reasonable, the bugs... well, not so much! But the chance to begin my business again... to pick up where we left off. No, I take that back... to extend the success we had in Texas. Now that is a wonderful feeling!!!

Here we come South Carolina. Are you ready for us??? This city girl who has now toured the world. With her Christian Louboutins and her new Benz... oh my is this going to be one more crazy ride!

Hold on folks... its going to to get silly here in about 6 months!!! (And I can't wait!)

See you soon, back in the good old USA! Thank God!

Adam Lambert Concert. Stuttgart, Germany~

Well, it's 11am here in Germany, and after a very eventful evening I am crawling my way out of bed and back to the land of reality.
Last night I traveled 3 hours to arrive with my best girl Vivian in Stuttgart. We donned our new dresses and glitz for what we anticipated as an exciting event. Adam did not disappoint, the venue and the rude people on the other hand, left a lot to be desired....
Maybe it's just that I'm too old for a general admission type concert? Maybe that my former-former is a very well know artist himself and I'm not used to being on anything but the backside of the curtains? Either way, fighting the entire evening with a very ripe and rude German woman was not my idea of a good time.
I had purchased my M&G tickets with the idea that there was a separate area for the VIP ticket holders to stand, only to find that the line separating them from us was nothing more than a plastic emergency tape unrolled between cones???
It took only 10 minutes after the GA crowd was let through the doors and that tape was broken through in zero time flat. That left those of us with front row tickets, scrambling and fighting our way to keep those front row spots. After being elbowed in the ribs for a good 40 minutes, and also dealing with her ever increasing body odor, I just gave up and gave her what she wanted. It was such a shame!

But Adam.... Ah Adam. He made it all worthwhile. With his amazing voice, fun costumes, energetic dancers and those damn tight leather pants! Yummy!!!!
The meet and greet was enjoyable as well. I would have liked a few more moments with him just to ask one or two questions at least... Making it a little more personal for both parties involved. But it was nice none the less to have met him and to have our picture taken. I'm looking forward to seeing it!!!

All in all it was a lot of fun. Great girls night out of town! I even met two fabulous ladies from Germany who were dressed like little rock stars themselves.... Oh to be that thin again! Girls.... You were smokin hot! I loved it!

For those who have the chance to take advantage of the meet and greet, it's worth it. Just be aware that 1) he does sign autographs (we were told he wouldn't) so be prepared with one of his disks, etc.... 2) that your VIP ticket doesn't guarantee that your going to be front and center.... Be ready to shove your way in there to keep your spot.

Hope those who are looking forward to your concert dates with Adam have as much fun as we did. He is amazing onstage, and a pleasure to meet backstage!

These images were taken with my iPhone, all by being pushed and shoved. Sorry for the quality, but the experience was much fun!

A European Vacation~

There are many things I will remember fondly when I remember our time here in Europe... our travels will surely be one of them~

This summer, my husband surprised me with an amazing 7 night Western Mediterranean cruise aboard the Navigator of the Sea, Royal Caribbean. It was the vacation of a lifetime, balcony suite and all!!! Ports of call included, Genoa, Italy. Barcelona, Spain. French Riviera/ Monaco, France, Rome, Italy. Sardinia, Italy.

All I will just keep repeating is how amazing this trip was... so instead, I'll just post some images.

LVMPD Metro K-9 Trials....

A dog is mans best friend... so the story goes. Pet or working dog... they are amazing, loving creatures. They will stand by your side when no one else will. They will lick the tears, grow excited over the laughter, curl up by your side to sleep.
I have two dogs, and I couldnt imagine my life without them. My female Tiffany is my baby, and my everything. She is older now, going on 12 yrs. and blind. But she still fetches a ball, follows me everywhere and adores me... even on those not so adorable days. I love her so very much!

Recently on my trip back to the states, I went back to Vegas to see very close friends. My two girlfriends and I have been through it all, and we still love and respect one another. We spent days just talking about the past, our futures, and life in general. I had a blast. During my visit I found myself down at the Orleans Hotel for the 2010 LVMPD Metro K-9 Trials, where another dear friend was competing. It was to be a surprise, we have not seen one another in over 5 years now.

He is one of Las Vegas' finest Metro K-9 officers. We met one night when he pulled me over for a ticket for driving with no headlights... the rest, as they say, is history. Its been 8 years now, and our friendship has grown into a deep respect of each others lives and the paths we have chosen. We will forever remain dear friends, and I thank my husband for allowing this to be.

It was a wonderful afternoon at the K-9 Trials. Where dogs and their handlers from all over the west coast competed for "top dog" of the event. I have never seen a K-9 work, even if it was on decoys. They are incredible!

Here's to you my friend, for all you and your dogs do to keep Las Vegas safe. You are a blessing. Please, always be safe out there. Vegas is a better place because of all you do.

Here's to Metros top dog! Pun intended!!!!!

A trip back home....

No matter what the situation, good or bad, going home can be amazing.
Our trip back to the states was a last minute one, one that we didn't quite know what to expect. My husbands father has fallen ill and it has been touch and go for some time now. While in the field, Eric received a phone call that changed everything... so off the California we went. Not knowing what awaited us.
When we arrived, it was wonderful! Every brother and sister, 9 in all, where there from across the globe. They were there to celebrate the life of a man they all loved and adored. It was good times indeed. The food, conversation, sleep overs, late night talks. It was just how a family should be, and I had a great time!
Now, Erics father seems to be doing better. One never knows what God has in store for us and our lives. The direction it can turn can change in the blink of an eye, and I have come to realize this fact the older and wiser I become. Life is precious, and should not be taken for granted... ever.

During our trip we took some time to go visit my parents in Lancaster as well. It was so great to see them after 2 long years! They looked great, and we enjoyed our short visit. The irony of it all... its October, so everyone everywhere is celebrating Octoberfest. Yes... that was surely what I came all the way to the states to do. LOL! But now I can say that I celebrated it on both sides of the world in one month.

So here are some images of our trip... a little all over the place, but I think you'll agree... we had a wonderful time with family. Precious-precious time indeed.







Me and my parents... our first picture together in over 13 years!





Erics family... every brother and sister along with his parents. What a great family portrait!









A quick trip to nearby Solvang, California is just what we needed. For my photography, this is where I held my first camera. An Argus flip-top.







Octoberfest in Lancaster, California. Definitely not Germany!



Lancaster Blvd. has changed over the years...





My friend of 17 years Cheryl.