Heart & Sole

{Happily Ever After}

2012-01-08T10:27:00.001-08:00

Congratulations Lauren and Mason!

2011-12-19T22:45:00.000-08:00

I went back and forth about whether to share these pictures with you. In the end I decided that I have no business keeping such a beautiful night a secret. I know there were paid photographers there and I am certain they did a better job than I... but something about the night inspired me to capture moments that would make me and my family smile. I took these for Grandma. For my auntie, for my cousins, siblings, parents. This is a completely biased look at what the wedding was from my perspective. A little "happy box" to cherish these wonderful memories for years to come. Some are very intimate, goofy, and even some artistic moments that spontaneously happened throughout the night...some are images which only my family understands...so please bear with me. And enjoy!

and look... even I made it in front of the camera for a couple shots!

Congrats to Josh and Natalie!

My heart is so happy right now.

Merry Christmas, everyone!

Come. On.

2011-10-27T11:38:00.000-07:00

could they be any cuter?

They were so easy to work with and respectful, mom is lucky I didn't take them home with me!

M.I.A.

2011-09-09T11:44:00.000-07:00

ah... hello? Anyone still out there? I know it's been a while since my last post, but in my defense, this is the face I get to stare at every. day. Now do you see why I haven't done much else? {I promise I will update soon} Happy Friday!

{wedding bliss}

2011-07-01T15:41:00.000-07:00

{It's Love}

2011-06-21T10:49:00.000-07:00

Remember that photo shoot on Belle Isle? Here are a handful of images that came from that day... Congratulations Scott and Julie!!!

{Sorry I've Been A Little Behind}

2011-06-08T14:28:00.000-07:00

It occured to me I haven't blogged for a while...

I plan to change that soon, in the meantime, here's some snippets from my latest shoot to make you smile!

Bump: 22 weeks

2011-03-23T19:29:00.000-07:00

So much has changed in the past 10 weeks... I can not only cook a full meal, I can sit down and eat it too! As the winter days drag on even into Spring, I don't mind {too much} because I can't seem to get this place CLEAN ENOUGH!! Nothing is safe. Dust bunnies...gone! Clutter...out the door! Laundry excites me to no end. The safe hum of the dryer, the clean smell of detergent lingering in the air... I actually find myself on the hunt for dirty items just to keep the momentum. Because I know this too, like the morning sickness, will pass. If you know me even a little, cleaning is usually at the bottom of my list each day. Even when its the only thing on my list for the day, you can usually count on me to find 5 "more important" things to keep me busy just so I don't have to clean. My husband is thrilled. My kids are confused. I love it.

Coca-Cola Fun!

2011-03-12T13:01:00.000-08:00

This year my soon to be 11 year old asked for a unique party themed around his favorite drink. I'm always up for a challenge, and this one was fun! Here's what we ended up finding...

The invite....

The cake...

Did I mention I have crazy talented friends? Thank you to Alysia for another amazing cake... If you would like to hire her, please email me for details!

The spread...

The floats...

"the boys"

{an impromtu shoot}

2011-03-04T12:28:00.000-08:00

It's a....

2011-03-03T08:12:00.000-08:00

sweet little boy. I had no idea how grateful I would be the moment I saw that squirming little miracle on the screen. I was thrilled. Knowing that my raised risk for "neuro-tube defects" {hydro-cephallus, spinabifida, cleft palette} caused by my anti-seizure medicine, there's always a niggling fear at the edge of my mind. After much wait, I got to hear the wonderful words that allowed me to release a breathe yesterday {a breath I didn't even realize I was holding} "What a beautiful spine".

At this time for giving thanks and recognizing God's blessings for Team Peterson, it never occurred to me that this news may seem tragic in any way to anyone. Not sure if people are more comfortable with symmetry in gender or thinking that a girl would somehow add more to our happiness. I felt a strange pressure to deliver the news that almost everyone was asking of me. Revealing the gender caused a strange reaction among many who were "convinced it was a girl". Our blue cake caused such confusion that some people didn't even recover enough to offer a "congratulations" as they left. Now, please don't get me wrong, if it had been a pink cake, there are many happy things to look forward to as well! I know the strong bond of sisterhood and would've loved to watch Marlee enjoy the perks that I have been lucky enough to have with my amazing sister... but is it fair of me to think that the only way for her to have a happy life is to live one just like mine? Who's to say their personalities would allow them to become best friends? I so look forward to the days when her brothers tower over her, tease her, and most of all look out for her every happiness.

Last night I awoke to these thoughts and couldn't find sleep again for over an hour. As I tried to gather my thoughts, I heard tiny footsteps enter my room {a rare occasion, but not unheard of} and Carter approached my bed informing me that he was scared. I wordlessly lifted the covers for him to climb in and he expertly molded his little body to fit right into my embrace and I listened as his breathing began to slow. I fell into a deep sleep with the knowledge that God has created the perfect family for me and I cannot wait to see the things he is going to do with each one of my children. 3 boys and a girl. I am blessed beyond measure.

{anything orange}

2011-01-26T19:00:00.000-08:00

As I enter the last week of my first trimester, I figured it might be time for some interesting facts that sets this pregnancy apart from the others...

*My running capabilities {sometimes even scaling laundry piles and dodging dogs} are much improved from the food aversions I have experienced. Ground beef is not my friend.

*Mark's cooking skills are also much improved.

*I have craved fresh EVERYTHING... celery, avacado, squash, clementines...
But most of all, it's been a pretty safe bet that anything orange will sound delicious to me... weird huh?

*Its driving me CRAZY not knowing if I can refer to "chiquita baby" {named for after all the fresh cravings} as "him" or "her"! I have tried all the quizzes and wives tales. Make your bets now, boy or girl? We will know in 6 short weeks!

{A Cozy Christmas}

2010-12-27T14:03:00.000-08:00

Blake's choir singing for Grandma at Canterbury

A well deserved nap!

She's taking a hint from nana...

Our colorful fire

A midnight snack

A family tradition

Papa watching the Wings

Merry Christmas ...

from some very cute little reindeer!

2 Little Lines

2010-12-15T14:29:00.000-08:00

I have been composing this post for a few weeks now. Mark and I have been keeping a secret from you. In some ways it feels sneaky and fun, knowing that once we share, you can't "unshare" it. On the other hand, I don't think I've ever lied so much in my life, and I am looking forward to finally coming clean. Early morning a few weeks ago, I stumbled to the bathroom and quietly unwrapped the test. While everyone slept deeply, I stared at it. Blinking the sleep away, I decided to walk away and come back to make sure it was real.

Two Lines.

Over the next few hours and days my mind started running through all the enormous things those tiny lines represented.

It means there will be another place setting at our table.

It means our house will be filled with laughter and noise for years to come.

It means C-man will not be the baby, and my niece will have a cousin to play with.

It means God has granted me the longtime wish of the full family my Grandma was blessed with.

It means we will have one child beginning middle school, one 4th grader, one kindergartner, and one infant.

It means this will be my last ticket on this roller coaster ride called "pregnancy" and I promise to embrace every moment, every kick, accordingly. Feel free to remind me of this.

And Mark would tell you that it means I finally got my way. (He would also tell you that this is not anything new) I love even numbers, and have talked about 4 kids since the day I started dreaming of my family. However, as the thunderous gallop of the baby's heartbeat echoed through the dark ultrasound room, a whoosh of laughter and surprise came from that calm cool fellow, who insisted for years that if God wanted us to have 4 kids, He would allow it.

I realize that some of you may think we are absolutely nuts, and some days I would probably agree with you. But I can hardly wait for July 2011 to round out "Team Peterson" at a solid 6 members.

I love this picture...

2010-11-21T20:02:00.000-08:00

wow. somehow I captured it. the love, tenderness, and instant connection between an auntie and her niece. just thought I'd share to make you all warm and squishy inside.

{patience}

2010-11-17T12:46:00.000-08:00

Patiently awaiting Papa's arrival. He's headed up north to the "cabinet" (his word for Mio cabin) for the rest of the week!

{etsy love}

2010-10-24T20:02:00.000-07:00

I'm a huge fan of supporting businesses that are run well. Customer service is #1 priority with me, and I will go out of my way to keep people in business who really care about their customers. I have ordered many items from "Brag About It" and been very happy with her work. Recently I had to update my SIL's brag tag with her newest addition, and Melissa was so wonderful to work with. Naturally, I want to share with all of you, so you can start your Christmas shopping {crazy, I know but Christmas Eve is exactly 2 months from today!} She is a true artist and her pieces are just precious. Here is an example of her work:

you can check out her shop at http://www.etsy.com/shop/BragAboutIt?ref=seller_info

Enjoy!

{fall fun}

2010-10-15T09:28:00.001-07:00

Happy Fall, Y'all!

{mini sessions}

2010-10-14T10:35:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! I realize it's been awhile since my last post. We have been battling the flu bug around here which has put a huge damper on my creativity! As things begin to settle down, I have gotten time to be thinking about my clients and looking forward to this weekend... Sunday I have booked an entire day of mini sessions at a local park, using the beautiful fall colors. This will allow many families to get a jump on their Christmas cards this year. I want to offer an extra little "diddy" for those who have signed up... A customized Christmas card! Here are two layouts that I will offer for no extra charge.

These layouts will allow you to print any amount you want at home or a photo lab for the price of a normal image! (around 15 cents at Costco!) Wowsa! IF you signed up and would like to work with another color scheme or layout, I can create whatever you have in mind for a small fee.

Have a happy day!

because I just have to.

2010-09-24T15:04:00.000-07:00

Today I moved my grandma from assisted living across the parking lot to the Alzheimer's unit. My mom needed help sorting through her clothes and hanging pictures on the wall. I never gave the chore a second thought, as it is just one more thing to check off my to-do list. I had no idea what an impact this chore would have on me. I came home to hurdle myself in to my husband's arms. Needing him to remind me that right now is special. We are blessed.

As we started through her closet of clothes I couldn't help but think of the life my grandma has led.  The journey that has taken her through finding the love of her life, raising a family, and now leading a very different, quiet life. One that only requires a bed, two chairs, and a closet of clothes. Her roommate Betty was watching quietly from the other side of the room, making sure I wasn't packing up any of her things while the oxygen tank hummed in the background. Every once in a while, when I didn't recognize an article of clothing, I would hold it up for her to see and she would smile and shake her head. Suddenly Betty broke her silence "I'm sure going to miss her." As her sentence broke off sharply, I turned to see her body shaking with sobs. She covered her eyes and I walked to her bedside. I realized that grandma is still touching people with her kindness and connecting with people even in that small nursing home. We talked a little about how wonderful Joanne is and how this move really is the best thing for her. I assured Betty that no, grandma won't think she had to move because of her. And yes, you will still get to see her.

As the movers were loading the larger items into my grandma's new room, I wandered over to the building where my mother had told me my high school french teacher lived.  Madame is also a victim of Alzheimer's, and as I crossed the parking lot, I couldn't believe how time has flown, how it could be possible for such a brilliant mind to fade? I was buzzed in by staff and greeted by an ancient gentleman who's glasses kept slipping down his nose. The staffer turned to him and, pointing at my 4 year old "Look John, isn't he cute?" John stared at him, and the staff person put a finger up to slide John's glasses back up again. Carter and I wandered over to a table where there was an equal number of staff and residents and I immediately spotted Madame. I walked to her and introduced myself. "I'm Amy. I used to be in your french class, and we went to Paris together." She smiled and gave a small giggle. I spouted off some of the sentences I had memorized all those years ago and she gave me a look that assured me that she understood what I was saying. The other women marveled at Carter and wanted to know if he had started nursery school yet.  A woman who told me Carter had my nose also advised me to get him in school, it's good for him. I said goodbye and felt a tug at my heart remembering Madame and all the people she invested in throughout her teaching career. How many lives she touched, and she can't account for any of it now.

I was buzzed into grandma's building and saw her at the table, playing Yahtzee with her new neighbors, and a handful of staff. Grandma turned to me and Carter and gave us each a hug, whispering "they can't make me play". I don't think she knows who I am anymore but somewhere deep down I hope she realizes I'm family. As they took turns shaking the die, 3 people would nod off , sitting straight up, mouths slack with sleep. The staff jovially moved from person to sleeping person rallying them to shake the dice with a song or even a dance. Another staff person walked in slowly escorting a frail old man, eyes weeping, mouth wide, maneuvering his stiff body into a nearby chair. Then she wiped the sides of his mouth with a cloth.   I left grandma to check out her new, smaller room.

As I unpacked grandmas clothing into her new closet, a woman came bursting through the door. "COME HERE. " she bellowed at me. "Come see this. You won't believe this." She gestures toward her room, "come ON!" I follow her obediently and she continues into her bathroom. I follow the woman into her room, wondering what could be so awful that she had to summon me, a virtual stranger in to her bathroom. "Look at this." she shook her head gesturing to an empty medicine cabinet. "They took it. All of it. Can you believe it? Ugh, that's it. I'm going to call my son and I am leaving here. That. IS. IT." So I politely took her by the arm to find a staff person to report this terrible crime. As we walk down the hall, she glances down at Carter seeing him for the first time and her expression softens. "I had all boys, and then THEY all had boys. No girls in the family. Just boys." She shakes her head sadly.   We reported the crime, and the sweet staff person did not look a bit shocked. She reassures Martha that her room had been locked the whole time and nothing was missing. She took Martha's arm and walked her back to her room, and I got to hear the story of Martha and her first car, a corvette from her dad. She tells me she was pretty spoiled by her dad because she was an only child, but she got good grades, so that makes it okay. I really think I'm gonna like Martha.

I know that this is the cycle of life. And on every other day, it's easy to digest the changes that come. Right now, I'm having all these feelings bubbling up and I just needed to write it out. Name each one just to clarify.

1. Awe. The people who work in nursing homes are angels. They genuinely love their patients, and I'm sure they don't get paid what they deserve.

2. Sadness. Life is short. I'm so afraid I'm missing it. I have to remind myself daily to listen to my kids. To play with them.

3. Hope. I don't want to be forgotten. I want my life to glorify God in great ways and leave this world a little brighter when I'm called home.

4. Compassion. The people I met today are inspiring and wise. We need make time for them.

5. Humor. I can only imagine what I will look like at that age. But I'm hoping I can keep some of my spunk. Just like Martha.

surprise!

2010-09-24T09:50:00.000-07:00

I have been composing this blog post in my head for several weeks. As it all unfolded, I knew immediately I had to share it with you. I was in Clarkston shooting family photos, in addition to individual pictures of Miss Haley. While I was snapping pictures, I joked and played trying to get the biggest smile possible. I enlisted help from mom, knowing that she would know the best way to get the smiles we needed. Mom glanced at me and asked "Are you ready?" I answered "yes" then "wait....ready for what?" I have to laugh now because all I had to do was peek through the lens and click away while she revealed her secret. Here is what Haley looked like at this point...

Mom begins... "Tomorrow you are coming with me and your friends to see JUSTIN BIEBER IN CONCERT!!!!!!" Here is the play-by-play that occurred in the next 60 seconds...

Add in a couple "ARE YOU SERIOUS??? , "I DON'T KNOW WHY I'M CRYING!!!", and a bunch of bouncing to what you see here and that was the scene... I am so honored that Jill chose to do this while I was there. These pictures are absolutely priceless. And hopefully they will help her remember every emotion she was feeling at this moment. Anyone else have a story like this one? One that you will take out of your memory bank, dust off, and cherish just as Haley will with this one?

{almost} missed moments

2010-09-14T15:20:00.000-07:00

Miss M decided she needed to learn how to rollerblade. All her friends know how and she just couldn't bear the thought of showing up to the rolladium tonight wearing regular rollerskates. This is a tough spot for someone who doesn't take direction well. It ends up looking a little like this...

{note to self-- clean the door ASAP!}

Shortly after turning down my services as skating coach {can't say I blame her, but it hurt just the same}, I caught a glimpse of something wonderful out of the corner of my eye. One of those beautiful, unprompted, sweet moments that I prayed wouldn't end while I ran to grab my camera.

I caught it. Just in time.

Big brother spent about 20 minutes patiently helping her to learn, hand in hand. With no arguments. {big sigh of relief}

Hoping you get the chance to catch a moment like this today!

{Coming Soon to a hospital near you}

2010-09-07T13:58:00.000-07:00

I sing to her the ABC's whenever I can.

I marvel at the miracle.

I love her already and I haven't even met her.

I can't wait for her to change our lives forever.

She's almost here.

xoxo

Guest Blogger Takes Over!

2010-08-21T19:48:00.000-07:00

In April, Amy Peterson graced my family as our photographer for a family gathering. My father had just turned 70 and it was just a couple months before my parents' 46th wedding anniversary on the 4th of July. My dad always said he married a firecracker! At that gathering, Amy captured this photo of my dad tenderly smooching my mommers' nose. This photo captures much.

It has been said (and sung) that a picture is worth a thousand words. I may use that many to describe some things to you, as I give you a testimonial of the value of Amy's incredible eye for photos - at least to me and my family! In January 1982, my mother (I call her Mommers) was diagnosed with breast cancer. She had her first mastectomy on my 12th birthday the next month. In some ways, I am ever grateful that I can never forget that particular date. It marks for me the extension of my life with my Mommers. In January 1990 she had a recurrence. In January 2004 she was hospitalized with a collapsed lung; the fluid around her lung contained breast cancer cells.

In the years since 2004, Mommers has battled through multiple surgeries, through numerous chemotherapy treatments. She saw me marry the love of my life (who happened to have been the boy next door growing up) and become a mom to Vincent (4) and Verona (2). This past January, her cancer markers increased significantly; it was spreading - and it was already in her sternum, ribs and liver. The night that my dad called to tell me this news, I called my siblings (who both live out-of-state) and asked them to come for Easter, Dad's birthday, and to see Mommers without having to say it was a trip to see her. This gathering marked the last time we would be together, as our YiaYia (Greek for grandmother, my mom's mom) passed away in May. I had the forethought to ask Amy to capture these moments.

This photo I've posted is one that has touched so many. My dad immediately asked me for a large print of this when I first showed him. A stranger once likened it to the work of Annie Liebowitz (I immediately called Amy to tell her this).

Last week, my dad asked my sister - who has taken more than a month away from her own family and life in North Carolina to come and do the important task of caring for our Mommers as she has entered Hospice care at home - and me to go with him to the funeral home at which he has pre-arranged a funeral for the love of his life. He wanted our help in choosing a casket. As we were shown around the facility, he saw a woven throw blanket that had a picture of a couple - the funeral director's grandparents. She told us that this was something they did for the family. My dad turned to me, eyes welling with tears, eyebrows lifted in a hopeful manner. I knew instantly: he wanted this photo to be crafted into such a throw. It would be the enlargement he wished for, and it would also be a way for him to wrap himself in the love they have always shared, to hold his wife after she leaves this plane to join God - restored, in perfect form.

This photo meant so much to my family and me when Amy captured it and we saw it for the first time. It has come to represent the growth and depth of my parents' love. It reflects their tenderness. It shows my mother's beauty, even with all the battles she has faced for nearly three decades. I am grateful to have that captured, commemorated.

I'm grateful to Amy for inviting me to be her guest blogger to share my thoughts. Perhaps you thought you were going to read some scandalous story from a mystery person hacking onto her blog. I am grateful to those of you who took the time to read what I have shared. You have participated in my therapy as I try to come to terms with the challenges of learning to let go so that we can all Let God. Kiss your loved ones. Share your feelings. Embrace the moments...and even find the way to smile through sadness. My Mommers recently asked me with a voice stronger than she should have right now, "Please don't cry." I'm going to attempt to honor her request right now...

With gratitude, JuliAnne Pardon Diesch...Amy's guest blogger on 21 August 2010.

a post to celebrate {love}

2010-08-09T10:44:00.000-07:00

In honor of my parents' 35th anniversary, I would like to dedicate this post to LOVE. Don'cha just love love???

the dictionary would define love as:

-a profoundly tender passionate affection for another person

-a feeling of warm personal attachment or deep affection

There are many different kinds of love that can completely change that definition; infatuation, romantic love, unconditional love {the kind that I don't deserve from my heavenly father}, puppy love {a certain teeny bopper idol comes to mind}, maternal love {you know the one, it can turn an otherwise sane woman into a grizzly bear ready to attack in 0.2 seconds if her child has been hurt in ANY way} , brotherly love, tough love... just to name a few.

Even within the same relationship, love can evolve and look different at different ages and stages of life.

And since I'm a visual learner and you may be too, here are a few images to bring my point home.

Happy Anniversary to you, mom and dad. I love you.

Soarin'

2010-08-09T06:42:00.000-07:00

this summer...

2010-08-05T19:26:00.000-07:00

As the summer days get shorter and back-to-school ads dominate the TV, I begin thinking about whether I have accomplished all that I had planned with my family...

There are days where I want to put off laundry for the 57th time (who needs clean undies when you can wear your bathing suit all day?) and just gaze into my baby's shiny green eyes framed by those tangled, dark lashes...

Walk past the piles of papers (and COUPONS) just to help Miss M print up yet another picture of Woody for her to hang in her room.

Or just plop down on the couch with my world famous cuddler, and try to say something to make him giggle that infectious giggle he has. He's going in to FIFTH grade this year. stop. just. stop. the. ride.

Then there are the days that I want to lock myself in the closet.

They are the days that I count down the hours until hubs walks through the door. And bless his heart for never saying a word about the piles of clothes on the couch, piles of dishes in the sink, unpacked bags from the farmers market, a sticky floor, a dog in time out, an edgy wife who hasn't even thought about starting dinner.

Even on those days I thank God for the beautiful sun, take a deep breath and look forward to tomorrow because it's bound to be better.

Whats left on my list? Soaking up those quiet moments, staying patient through the chaotic ones and remembering to cherish my time with my babies because it's flying by.

Know what I love?

2010-07-29T20:57:00.000-07:00

I love it when I get the privilege of photographing people who have been in my life for years. It's so easy to catch the real 'candid' moments because I know what I'm looking for. A few weeks ago I headed north to take pictures for some very good friends. I had the added bonus of being able to photograph in one of my favorite places on this earth... Lake Leelanau. Here's a few glimpses of my visit...

{Family Moments}

2010-07-16T07:15:00.000-07:00

You don't choose your family. They are God's gift to you, as you are to them. ~Desmond Tutu

...we interrupt this blog

2010-06-30T09:13:00.000-07:00

..for a commercial break. My friend Joelle turned me on to these while she was visiting and I can't seem to stop eating them (I'm still trying to decide whether to thank her or CURSE her!)! I recently took them to a barbecue and people were raving about them. It's a really good thing I don't live closer to Trader Joe's. I'd be in big trouble...

... and now, back to our regularly scheduled programming.

Summa-time!!!

2010-06-19T11:44:00.000-07:00

When the weather turns warm again, I can feel myself start to awaken from a nap I didn't plan on taking. My senses are overwhelmed with the smells, the colors, and even the sounds of summer. I know technically it isn't summer until next week, but in our home, we are in full swing. Some of my {many} favorite things about summer are:

~the farmers market

~warm pavement under my bare feet (even after the sun has gone down)

~the smell of a bonfire and my neighbors grill.

~4th of July. I love my country.

~up north on Lake Leelanau, just nothing better than the pace up at LL.

~lack of a "schedule". I hate schedules. {yeah, hate's a strong word and I don't use it often, but I feel THAT strongly!}

~Snugly mornings with my kids

~morning coffee on the back deck my hubby

~ATTEMPTING to grow herbs and flowers. {Blake has to help me, he's the only one who remembers to care for them}

...you get the idea. But if you still can't picture it, here are a few snapshots to show you what summer looks like so far in our family.

{Welcome to the world little Darrius}

2010-06-19T09:16:00.000-07:00

{tiny dancer}

2010-06-07T13:21:00.000-07:00

once upon a time...the end.

Just in time for fathers day...{family photos}

2010-06-06T18:10:00.000-07:00

I got to meet a great family a few weeks ago and caught some sweet moments with dad. I figured I would share a few with all of you!

{meet the family}

2010-06-04T11:27:00.000-07:00

allow me to introduce my niece, Grace.

A few things you need to know about her {in no particular order}

* She had a very rocky start to life

* She has a voice like an angel

* She is a tiny bit boy crazy {not unlike her auntie at her age}

* She is an encourager

* She LOVES God, and puts him first with EVERYTHING.

* She also loves her family and genuinely looks forward to time together {I know! rare for a teen!}

*She's GORGEOUS. see?

She Came Home!!!

2010-05-28T20:43:00.000-07:00

Today I had the most wonderful surprise. My sister walked through my front door. From Phoenix!!! It took me about an hour (of staring at her and hugging her) to realize it was all real!! For those of you who don't know, she's my been best friend since birth. My other half. An extra limb, if you will.

What better way to celebrate this homecoming than a picnic on the lake! Tonight was one of those nights that I will cherish. I got to be with my family tonight. My delightfully silly, crazy, amazing family.

ha. this is so us.

{the lake}

{bump watch 2010}

2010-05-28T20:01:00.001-07:00

{mom}

2010-05-26T10:57:00.000-07:00

"All that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel Mother."

-- Abraham Lincoln

just. precious.

2010-05-22T08:17:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I was on a photo shoot with a fun family and had the pleasure of photographing Miss Hannah. She's just beautiful, isn't she?

love the drool. :)

hat courtesy of Rumstadt Designs http://www.etsy.com/shop/rumstadt

{editing again}

2010-05-19T12:41:00.000-07:00

I have become very busy taking pictures lately now that the sun is shining and the grass is green. Here is a preview of some photos I'm working on right now.

It was bound to happen...

2010-05-17T07:27:00.000-07:00

... the end of vacation is always bittersweet. I had an amazing time with family and friends (picts will be posted soon), but I am ready to be home. Now, time to edit!!

{sister}

2010-05-15T09:43:00.000-07:00

she's my best friend. she's been by my side ever since i can remember.

congratulations, sissy pants. you amaze me.

{the view from where I sit}

2010-05-11T11:23:00.000-07:00

{Target Practice}

2010-05-10T07:30:00.000-07:00

{bump watch 2010}

2010-05-06T13:21:00.000-07:00

If you don't know already... My brother is expecting his first baby sometime in October. It has been so neat to start preparing for her arrival (yes I said HER, it's time to buy stock in BabyGap, folks!). I was fortunate enough to join Jen for an ultrasound (Nick couldn't go last minute) yesterday and I cried three times in that dark room. Every time I looked at that monitor of a perfect baby all I could think was: "God is so COOL!"

We are doing our best to monitor every change this pregnancy brings. Here are some of the latest developments...

Staff Appreciation Week!

2010-05-04T06:38:00.000-07:00

This week is staff appreciation week at the kids' school. I am honored to be a part of the planning team for this week's fesivities (Laura, thanks for not rolling your eyes at all my crazy ideas)! Let me take a minute to thank all the people who build in my childrens lives. YOU are truly a blessing!

some really talented ladies...

{a little peek}

2010-04-28T08:40:00.000-07:00

Don't they look like a Ralph Lauren ad???

{my weekend}

2010-04-26T10:03:00.000-07:00

Anyone who knows me will tell you that I love any excuse to have people over. I love a good party. It takes me a long time to prepare because I get LOST in every detail. This weekend after a wonderful photo shoot (pics coming soon), I began preparations for a Pampered Chef party.

A friend of mine jokingly quipped that she may set out a bowl of carrots for such an occasion, but I pulled out all the stops. I love to spoil my girls. Love to feed them, visit, laugh, and create memories.

This party had a guest of honor. I couldn't wait to see her and help her business to thrive!

I had my own selfish reasons to have this party. Not the free products (though that will be nice!), not learning new tips and tricks to cooking, not even having a full house with food in the oven...

...this. This was the highlight of my day. Getting to see that huge smile on my husband's face. The kind that only the oldest of friends can bring. Thanks Julie for making it out here. You are a blessing!

photo shoot

2010-04-21T19:28:00.000-07:00

Welcome To Our Jungle, Mason Mackenzie

2010-04-14T10:17:00.000-07:00

First off, I would like to welcome the newest member for the Boose family....

Our family LOVES babies. Now, I know your thinking "who doesn't love babies?" Let me tell you, my readers... the Boose's have an adoration for babies that is unreal. You are probably sitting there shaking your head thinking "Amy is embellishing right now" Well, I'm not sure, but I think I've heard rumors of "nibbling" cheeks when the mom isn't looking. They love babies so much, they want to eat them! And what's not to love? The smell, the squeaks, the little diapered butt, and the FEET!

Dustin and Kierston, let me take a minute to say CONGRATULATIONS! You have a beautiful family!

but like Grandma's always saying... we're kinda biased.

Why is this post named "Welcome to our Jungle" you ask?? Well, there is always some questionable behavior when we all get together...

And you never really know what might spontaneously occur when you're not looking..

But we really know how to have fun! {and eat}

Here's a few more pics of what Easter looked like for the Boose's!

I think he's on to me...

can you believe I made it into one of the pictures???

Nana giving directions for the egg hunt

"the gatherer"

"The Lady" and her newest grandbaby. Love it.

mmmm!

2010-04-13T19:21:00.000-07:00

I would like to take this opportunity to do a little dance because.....SUMMER'S COMIN'!! See? We made it through another winter! Happy Tuesday, everyone!

and did I forget to mention...

2010-04-09T09:15:00.000-07:00

...that the blessing of siblings (and cousins) continue as our kids now have built-in friendships with their cousins?? here's a glimpse of family dinner night at moms. If its Monday night, and mom's cooking, here's where you'll find us!

Siblings

2010-04-09T08:37:00.000-07:00

When you are young, you don't appreciate the blessing of a sibling. Growing up, I would've sold my brother to the highest bidder on any given day. 2.5 years apart, my brother and I have never really had much in common. When he was a baby, he was like a goat. He would eat anything I gave to him. Poor mom had to constantly be on the lookout at diaper changes for watch batteries, pennies etc. Poor mom. (I'm really sorry, mom) Things didn't really improve as we got older, we were always looking for ways to torture each other (throwing items out the window on the highway, singing annoying songs (SEVEN LITTLE RABBITS WALKIN DOWN THE ROAD!!! hahaha).

Something shifts as you get older and realize that ALL your memories of growing up are pretty much identical. All the wierd shows mom would let us watch (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MBTrjZCyO94&feature=related), the yummy and unappetizing meals she prepared, sneaking cookie dough when mom and dad weren't looking. And I think one of the greatest parts of growing up was that we lived in a house that was about 1,000 square feet. We had no choice but to be together. One TV, one bathroom (ohhhh that was tough), and dinners at the kitchen table in our tiny kitchen. All this to say that my opinion of my brother changed somewhere between me starting a family and him starting his. He's no longer the smelly, annoying, wear-the-same-clothes-every-day-of-the-week brother that I remember from my youth. He's a decent guy with a family of his own who happens to be one of the few people who can make me laugh til I cry. My siblings and I have a language that most people don't understand... Mostly lines from movies and inside jokes from YEARS ago. (Remember when dancer puked on Emily???, you want some KWAFFFY?)

We have all grown to appreciate each other, support each other. Encourage each other like no one else can. I'm so glad we have each other.

The other night, our kids got together to tie-dye t-shirts. We decided to make one to send to Em in Phoenix. Nick didn't hesitate to take the SHIRT off his back to use. He loves his sister. Thought I would document it with this photo...

Scenes from Grandma's House

2010-04-01T11:04:00.000-07:00

Grandma's house may be just 10 minutes away, but being there always has been like a mini vacation for me. When I was young and needed a break from my family, I always knew Grandma would take me in, snuggle and spoil me for a while, and give me perfect perspective, no matter how upset I was. Even as an adult, I know that she is there with her gentle wisdom, ready for me to sit on her couch, sip coffee, eat ice cream from the container with Food Network on the TV. And if I'm really lucky I may even get one of her world famous back scratches! You may remember how much I detest fall, but magically through the eyes of Grandma I am able to find the beauty out on the golf cart with her as our tour guide. Here are just a few scenes from Grandma's....

{welcoming Audrey}

2010-03-30T11:15:00.000-07:00

Because this picture makes me happy...

2010-03-28T09:13:00.000-07:00

This is a happy little stream I found on girls weekend last fall near Mackinaw. I don't normally take pictures like this, but the brightly colored moss just made me smile. Hopefully it will do the same for you! Happy Sunday!

He's a Rockstar.

2010-03-26T12:16:00.000-07:00

Just your typical Friday around here...

For A Decade...

2010-03-24T11:51:00.000-07:00

...I have been a mother. It seems so strange to say this because I don't FEEL like it's been 10 years since I became someone's mom. In fact, I was just told by a perfect stranger the other day that I don't look old enough to have 1 child let alone three! (Thank you, stranger. I will cherish this remark for years to come!) Sometimes I still feel like I'm playing house and these kids are going to be picked up by their real parents at any moment... (there are times I wish someone WOULD come to pick them up... just for a while... only so I can sit and stare at the wall in complete silence. I actually remember when I used to do that. I used to be BORED!) But I digress.

Blake is entering the age where I have to be careful not to embarass him in front of his friends. Luckily, when no one is looking he still snuggles in for a hug whenever I stop to catch my breath. I don't EVER want that to change. shhh... don't tell.

Throwing a birthday party these days gets trickier and trickier as I don't want to do anything too "baby-ish" for my grown up boy. So this year we hosted a "movie" themed party with all the fixin's... popcorn, candy, and an AMAZING popcorn cake (yup that's a CAKE!) made by my insanely talented friend Alysia. The kernels are made from mini marshmallows! Check out the pictures from this fun (and surprisingly quiet) birthday party!

hmmmm...

2010-03-21T12:32:00.000-07:00

I was going through Marlee's backpack a few days ago and came across this note from "Andrew". Is it time to worry yet?

Our Journey

2010-03-18T11:37:00.000-07:00

Someone from the Epilepsy Foundation called and asked me to write a few paragraphs on why I walk every year in the Summer Stroll for Epilepsy. They tell me they will be using my story in the media to advertise for this year's walk.

As I sat down to write, it felt cathardic to look back and see how God can use my "broken self" for His glory! I was surprised at how good it felt to know that all the heartache of my youth was to prepare me for my ultimate job in life...being a mother. Read below about our journey with epilepsy, and consider walking with us June 12th this year at the Detroit Zoo.

When a girl is twelve, she wants to be like everyone else. “Normal” is a label that a young teen desperately seeks. When I was twelve, I had a grand mal seizure on a family trip to Florida. I was diagnosed with Epilepsy and my life changed forever. For years I struggled, not committing to take my pills, fighting with my parents, and acting out socially as if fighting the world meant it wasn’t true. I kept it a secret from everyone, knowing that I couldn’t be considered “normal” if I shared. Even as an adult, I refused to let epilepsy define me. I would push all my physical limits and dare epilepsy to put restrictions on my life.

Then I became a mother.

And when I looked into my child’s eyes, I made a promise to God to protect, love, and cherish this sweet life that had been entrusted to me. I fell head over heels in love.

When my 18 month old, Carter began showing signs of seizures, we began the same journey to diagnosis that looked totally different from a parents’ perspective. I cried and fought feelings of guilt, but mostly a gut-wrenching fear. And yet again, I found myself fighting. But this time I was fighting for my child. I decided that this journey will be different for Carter. No hiding, no shame. It was then that I decided I would CELEBRATE the beautiful and wonderful spirit of my son. It was time to do something positive to help Carter’s journey (and many others) be a joyful and hopeful one.

The Summer Stroll for Epilepsy is a perfect opportunity to surround ourselves with amazing friends and family. A time to enjoy a beautiful summer day together, eat, laugh, dance, and raise awareness for an affliction that is still so misunderstood. It’s about creating happy memories for my son to cherish, knowing he is abundantly blessed. There will be no memories of shame for my son. Memories from this event will likely give him the gift of support and empowerment for years to come.

my fundraising page: http://epilepsymichigan.kintera.org/faf/donorReg/donorPledge.asp?ievent=333608&lis=1&kntae333608=1531535B926743D79B70247F9F160D36&supId=210078473

to join team peterson: http://epilepsymichigan.kintera.org/faf/search/searchTeamPart.asp?ievent=333608&lis=1&kntae333608=1531535B926743D79B70247F9F160D36&supId=0&team=3693425&cj=Y

The Painted Pot

2010-03-12T08:51:00.000-08:00

As a mother, sometimes it can be tricky coming up with things to do on a day off from school. After Blake made plans with a friend, Marlee and I decided to introduce Carter to one of our favorite places... The Painted Pot in downtown Rochester. I remember dragging Mark there while we were dating, and now its a perfect place to take the kids, express our creativity, and spend some quality time together. As you can see, Carter is learning to express himself through paint. Lets just hope next time he will paint more on the pottery, and a little less on his face!

Snow day!

2010-03-09T18:59:00.000-08:00

I cannot get over the fact that it got into the 50's today, MARCH 9th! I feel like the sun just gives me a burst of energy like nothing else can give! So as I edit pictures, I realize what a stark difference this is from just a couple weeks ago! There was so much snow, we shoveled the driveway 4 times in 12 hours, and the kids didn't have school. Even though it was a fun day of making snow forts and catching fresh flakes on our tongues, I really hope that we are done with this part of the winter and look forward to many more days like today. Who's with me?

Babysitter

2010-03-05T12:29:00.000-08:00

Ever accidentally stumble upon something that makes your life a little easier?? I bought this cute balloon yesterday and haven't had to entertain him since! Oh, and the mess on his face is remnants of his "tawfee" (he calls his hot chocolate coffee to be like his momma)!

Photo Shoot

2010-03-02T13:19:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, I had the privilege of meeting little Emma. She had a smile that would melt your heart.

Unfortunately, mom had to run out of the room to catch a phone call and suddenly we weren't best buds anymore :(

Well she recovered very quickly and we went on to have a wonderful shoot. Here's a glimpse of how the morning unfolded...

Midwinter break...

2010-02-21T18:17:00.000-08:00

What do you do when you've got a house full of busy, hungry kids??? Pop up some of Miss Alysia's famous crunchy caramel corn... yummy!

Recipe:

1 cup brown sugar
½ cup butter
¼ cup white corn syrup
½ tsp. salt
4 qts. popped corn*
½ tsp. baking soda

Combine all except corn and baking soda. Cook in microwave on high for 3½ minutes. Remove. Stir in baking soda. Place popcorn in large paper bag. Pour syrup over corn. Close bag and shake. In bag, microwave on high 1½ minutes. Shake bag and cook an additional 1½ minutes. Remove from microwave and shake again. Allow to cool.

*If using microwave popcorn, use natural flavor. If using butter flavor, do not add the salt. 4 quarts= 2 bags.

Preparations...

2010-02-20T16:08:00.000-08:00

Getting ready for guests!!!

New Beginnings....

2010-02-16T17:06:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I could NOT stop smiling. I wasn't allowed to tell anyone why... and I now have permission to shout it from the rooftops!!!!!! My baby brother is going to be a daddy. I can hardly wait to watch this journey unfold for him. My dad once told me that your children can make you the happiest person on earth, and also bring you the biggest heartache, all in the same day. And he's right. Sometimes you can feel all of it within the same hour!

To Nick, Jen, and Lauryn: Congratulations!!!! I love you guys. What a blessing you have received!

To my sweet husband: I'm going to apologize in advance because the shopping has already begun and this little baby's gonna be spoiled rotten by Auntie Amy!!

Marlee's Heart

2010-02-08T16:20:00.000-08:00

Anyone who knows Marlee could tell you she is no ordinary 8 year old girl. Instead of dress up, you can find her in the front yard shooting hoops. Instead of ballet class, she is more comfortable on a dirty softball field. This is a girl who thrives on schedules, challenges, and homework. Sometimes I wonder where she got all that. As a scattered mother, I am learning how to create an environment that helps her feel secure and loved.

One thing you need to know about Marlee is that she is a total pack rat (yet another thing that she does NOT get from me. ) Anytime I try to throw out even the oldest, dirtiest toys long forgotten in the basement, she will cry for hours in mourning. I can't even be caught throwing away old math homework because it will break her heart; parting with anything is unusually hard for her.

Last week at church, her children's pastor challenged the children to be collecting money that can be sent to Haiti specifically to supply water in a time of great need. On Friday, Marlee was given 21 dollars for high grades on her report card and she decided without hesitation to donate every dollar she got to the people in Haiti. She stated this on her way into Target. I smiled and wondered if her decision would stay the same as we shopped through her favorite store. She never wavered... Her decision was made. My heart just aches with pride as I see my daughter understand what it means to give sacrificially to those who need it more than her. For those of you who want to give me credit... I don't believe its mine to accept. I believe that Marlee and her brothers are a product of much prayer and being surrounded by amazing people who challenge them. Thank you to the Gerrild family and all of you who have input in my children's life.

the month of LOVE!

2010-02-01T19:31:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited to start this new month, I decided to celebrate. After lots of online searching, I came up with a cute idea for my kids Valentine's Day gifts for their classmates. I bundled Carter up and headed out to gather supplies that I would need. One of my last stops was to Meijer where I got to pick out the sweet treats that would be included in the bags. As I was waiting at the cash register, an elderly woman was struggling out of her motorized cart to finish her purchase. She quietly asked what the total would be, and the clerk said "Twenty-two fifty one". The woman said "Thats okay, I don't need to get the grapes, dear." The clerk set them on the cash register to restock later. Carefully, the woman pulled out her cash and counted her coins into the clerks hand. As she did, my heart began to pound and I knew that God had given me an opportunity to help bless this woman. After she completed her sale and before she walked away, I asked the clerk to please ring the grapes on my bill. The elderly woman turned and smiled, commenting on how yummy they looked, thinking I was buying them for myself. I handed her the bag and said "here, these are for you". She looked at me and tears started to fill her eyes and she told me no one had ever done anything like that for her before. Tears filled my eyes as I mumbled something about how I would hope that someone would do the same for my grandmother in the same situation.

The moral of the story? ITS SO EASY to make someones day. This opportunity couldn't have been easier to see. It cost me $1.86 to bless this woman and it was worth every penny. I'd like to challenge you to look for opportunities to love on the people around you. Pay attention. Put down your cell phone and watch. What better month to start than the one dedicated to LOVE??

Trying something new...

2010-01-31T08:34:00.000-08:00

So the other night, I decided it was time to try something new as a family... For the first time EVER, I prepared salmon for dinner. Why is this newsworthy? Well, I can't stand fish. The only kind I can tolerate is Albacore tuna, which I'm not sure even really counts because it comes in a can! I would hate to have my kids miss out on the chance to decide for themselves how they feel about it, not to mention the health benefits that fish has.

My picky eater decided immediately that she would not enjoy this dinner. The rule in this house is "you have to try everything, you don't have to like it. But you must try everything that is prepared for you". She ate the tiny piece presented on her plate with a pinched look on her face, but didn't complain once. (I consider this a HUGE accomplishment)

Something really cool happened that night after dinner. I was munching happily on my edamame (soybeans) when Carter came over to try one. I created a game on the spot, since its hard to teach a 4 year old that you need to scrape the bean out and NOT eat the outside... 10 minutes later, I was surrounded by all three children wanting to play my game and eat the soybeans. I was careful not to react because I didn't want to scare them off (secretely I was thrilled! I could almost see the nutrients and vitamins racing through my kids digestive track!).

I left the room for a moment, and came back to find my daughters face full of food. I looked closely at her and asked what she was eating. (Sneaking food in my house is pretty common, and usually involves something very sugary or chocolate.) SALMON. When I wasn't looking, Marlee had shoved her mouth full of fish. That night I learned that I need to be better about preparing all foods for my kids whether I like to eat it or not!

Oh, and some really cool things can happen when you aren't watching.

Some of my favorite moments...

2010-01-22T13:27:00.000-08:00

2010-01-22T12:42:00.000-08:00

2010-01-22T12:36:00.000-08:00

2010-01-22T12:30:00.000-08:00

2010-01-22T12:27:00.001-08:00

2010-01-22T12:23:00.001-08:00

2010-01-22T12:19:00.000-08:00

2010-01-22T12:13:00.000-08:00

Heart & Sole

{Happily Ever After}

{{The Wedding}}

Come. On.

M.I.A.

{wedding bliss}

{It's Love}

{Sorry I've Been A Little Behind}

Bump: 22 weeks

Coca-Cola Fun!

{an impromtu shoot}

It's a....

{anything orange}

{A Cozy Christmas}

2 Little Lines

I love this picture...

{patience}

{etsy love}

{fall fun}

{mini sessions}

because I just have to.

surprise!

{almost} missed moments

{Coming Soon to a hospital near you}

Guest Blogger Takes Over!

a post to celebrate {love}

Soarin'

this summer...

Know what I love?

{Family Moments}

...we interrupt this blog

Summa-time!!!

{Welcome to the world little Darrius}

{tiny dancer}

Just in time for fathers day...{family photos}

{meet the family}

She Came Home!!!

{bump watch 2010}

{mom}

just. precious.

{editing again}

It was bound to happen...

{sister}

{the view from where I sit}

{Target Practice}

{bump watch 2010}

Staff Appreciation Week!

{a little peek}

{my weekend}

photo shoot

Welcome To Our Jungle, Mason Mackenzie

mmmm!

and did I forget to mention...

Siblings

Scenes from Grandma's House

{welcoming Audrey}

Because this picture makes me happy...

He's a Rockstar.

For A Decade...

hmmmm...

Our Journey

The Painted Pot

Snow day!

Babysitter

Photo Shoot

Midwinter break...

Preparations...

New Beginnings....

Marlee's Heart

the month of LOVE!

Trying something new...

Some of my favorite moments...