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.

A family... full circle~

How time passes...
Before I even realized it, a year has almost past and I find myself looking towards the final stretch of our time here in Europe. Much has happened since I arrived, the best of which have been the friends I have made along the way and the memories I have helped create.
That has to be the largest thing I miss about my business as a whole, the memories that are made again and again after I first meet a couple. It starts with an engagement shoot, that turns into a wedding celebration, that develops into a maternity portrait, that begins a new life session. Its full circle, and its an amazing thing to be a part of!

When I first arrived in Germany I met a woman who has become a role model to me. She is a friend, a mentor, a mother, a wife. When we met, she was 5 months pregnant with her new son and begging me for maternity portraits. Just hours after the end of this session her water broke, and baby Anton arrived! It was a very exciting day that I still remember so vividly. Weeks later came Antons first photo shoot... and he was a trouper! With his huge, beautiful eyes. Thick head of hair and a fabulous attitude for such a little man.

Just weeks ago Kelly and 'Landos time here in Germany came to an end. And, although they are back in the states, I think about this amazing family everyday~ They touched me, and I will be forever amazed by the story that I tell again and again of how we became friends.

I miss you all so very much. And even though we spoke and saw one another so sporadically, I miss knowing that you were right there if I had a question or concern or just needed a friend.
I cant wait to come back to Texas and Im thrilled to know you are in SA!!! By the time I return I suspect I will be capturing another baby bump? :)

Before they left we all took one last stroll through the park out by the base and captured a few more memories. I cant believe how big little Anton is already. Tell him to slow down just a little, I want more memories to keep~

I miss you dear friends~

A single rose can be my garden... a single friend, my world~

A single leaf blows off the branch of a nearby tree as the skies made it known that the rain which has plagued us over the last few days is not yet over. A gentle breeze comes from around the corner as a childs laughter is carried with it, and then another. Soon, a parents gentle touch is felt by one as she helps dress her daughters in rubber rain boots and matching umbrellas. The skies are holding off for now, as if to allow us a moment of togetherness... this family of God awaits the click of my camera shutter and I am again so honored to name these people friends.
She was the first woman to meet and greet me when I first arrived here to Germany. A plate full of chocolates and a warm hug, followed by evenings of great wine and homemade meals. This family I love so very much... we have already made so many wonderful memories together. And today, another opportunity to gather and capture family portraits that are long over due.
Thank you again for these moments in time. Thank you again for allowing me the honor. And thank you most of all for being that friend who has become my world.
I love you all so very much...
Enjoy~

The Dinosaur Park~

The Dinosaur Park in Kaiserslautern, Germany...
A place where children young and old can meet and spend a quiet afternoon. And today, under cloud filled skies I met with a devoted client of mine and her close friend and families. It was a day of final image captures as one family moves back to the states and leaved those close behind.
I know this move all too well. And although I have no children, I can easily imagine how difficult this could be with them in tow.
It was a pleasure to shoot for you once again my friend, and thank you for introducing me to another great client. Awe... you cant leave me now!!!
Enjoy~