tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24957595923796751912024-03-19T02:44:52.957-07:00Ramblings from the life of an ADD momAmyPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05767382106459373606noreply@blogger.comBlogger37125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2495759592379675191.post-24163799145650188992009-10-31T08:55:00.000-07:002009-11-03T18:38:54.015-08:00New blog...So, friends, it's official. I made the switch. Since I'm moving forward with photography, I felt the name of my blog needed to match up with my website. So, if you would be so gracious, please head on over to:<br /><a href="http://amypphotos.blogspot.com">www.amypphotos.blogspot.com</a><br /><br />And if you'd ever like to check out my website, feel free to go to:<br /><a href="http://amypphotos.showitsite.com">www.amypphotos.showitsite.com</a><br /><br />I hope you'll join me over there! You have no idea how much I appreciate you taking time out of your day to check out my stories and the stories of others!AmyPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05767382106459373606noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2495759592379675191.post-20090955022305249982009-10-23T18:51:00.001-07:002009-10-23T18:56:56.360-07:00I have been away for awhileI know I have been away for awhile...<br /><br />But it is all because some new things are brewing<br /><br />A new blog address<br /><br />A new website<br /><br />and new stories from my life and the lives of other awesome people<br /><br />Heck, I even have a new email<br /><br />Stay tuned for the complete rollout<br /><br />Here is a taste of whats to come...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr8eHn027QgbQQ8oygNpsjIJevgGLvXN9wo3qL1Ex5KSYhcRFP-3_SLOakPeliHmiqh7maerG8jBLjbamsqTrF45RDRUslxws_bO1l48OtEBKI4W0iut9pmlPge5sQ50FDGxDolii9-h3U/s1600-h/154_Mandi_October+19,+2009.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr8eHn027QgbQQ8oygNpsjIJevgGLvXN9wo3qL1Ex5KSYhcRFP-3_SLOakPeliHmiqh7maerG8jBLjbamsqTrF45RDRUslxws_bO1l48OtEBKI4W0iut9pmlPge5sQ50FDGxDolii9-h3U/s640/154_Mandi_October+19,+2009.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5395979368833009762" /></a>AmyPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05767382106459373606noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2495759592379675191.post-20869226526066468952009-10-07T21:01:00.000-07:002009-10-07T21:09:49.478-07:00There's a lot to come...So many stories, so little time. This has been a full few weeks of adorable children, beautiful couples and so much more. I don't have time to post much because I am shooting my amazing friend's wedding in Louisville this weekend, but here's a taste of what's to come. Soon. I swear.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis_DcHiLi8FxKn2E5L-OuDW1-jr92cSnbY2euUZ7j-CFJOj60OmPfKl0p8XRYgEKK7P7qyebq9gZ0jOgGlf0ijgHNoMadWGuzXmwtml8bZYFCs4t3XO9xwF2sFWoBFNWQDZMD5mF8E2lJU/s1600-h/1247_Mark_Joy_Day+After_September+18,+2009readyforblog.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis_DcHiLi8FxKn2E5L-OuDW1-jr92cSnbY2euUZ7j-CFJOj60OmPfKl0p8XRYgEKK7P7qyebq9gZ0jOgGlf0ijgHNoMadWGuzXmwtml8bZYFCs4t3XO9xwF2sFWoBFNWQDZMD5mF8E2lJU/s400/1247_Mark_Joy_Day+After_September+18,+2009readyforblog.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5390075514339076930" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFqxZtNTin-OVQO7q8ZAHN6KWT8pPTZrV1t_da-i-2fA9ytmiXmBBdxaXiqFutxQbRz1L4cADc9VeHvAgDixwThuzlVJnw3_8ehUbBCRkKS_2CcE9EzOH-Vi4NWcIAHNnFjrkdJorydhUZ/s1600-h/1361_Mark_Joy_Day+After_September+18,+2009readyforblog.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFqxZtNTin-OVQO7q8ZAHN6KWT8pPTZrV1t_da-i-2fA9ytmiXmBBdxaXiqFutxQbRz1L4cADc9VeHvAgDixwThuzlVJnw3_8ehUbBCRkKS_2CcE9EzOH-Vi4NWcIAHNnFjrkdJorydhUZ/s400/1361_Mark_Joy_Day+After_September+18,+2009readyforblog.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5390075504983476754" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDtLZkaNymQg81FxIhdvB7snkQCndbXG48Vmug61NsD7E50jhxJLt43J1kTCkj8Q2vx6fd1MevWmDLy7XHgZ-N7ZVI9zROOyJXu_ZKZZHYy3HFJf4fNV7x_sW9r2z5uGosu1cLHiM9oeof/s1600-h/derricksreadyforblog.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDtLZkaNymQg81FxIhdvB7snkQCndbXG48Vmug61NsD7E50jhxJLt43J1kTCkj8Q2vx6fd1MevWmDLy7XHgZ-N7ZVI9zROOyJXu_ZKZZHYy3HFJf4fNV7x_sW9r2z5uGosu1cLHiM9oeof/s400/derricksreadyforblog.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5390075496371420370" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf3iydDkiwyLqndbwi3MtO6_oP5GABLo2MH00LvXUkVxaZba3dc-wWhjHCW_39L-3WgA8fqOdqFOu4gIu5sMukg1hDVQVBKoKug6Vqdtm4W3FiSUeivVqE0bbUhmcQ8FkuEvLLAQLpSfUk/s1600-h/090_Derrick_Baby_Shoot_October+03,+2009readyforblog.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf3iydDkiwyLqndbwi3MtO6_oP5GABLo2MH00LvXUkVxaZba3dc-wWhjHCW_39L-3WgA8fqOdqFOu4gIu5sMukg1hDVQVBKoKug6Vqdtm4W3FiSUeivVqE0bbUhmcQ8FkuEvLLAQLpSfUk/s400/090_Derrick_Baby_Shoot_October+03,+2009readyforblog.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5390076139379686338" /></a>AmyPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05767382106459373606noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2495759592379675191.post-41266999520059201712009-09-28T12:35:00.000-07:002009-09-28T12:47:43.709-07:00I'm a MessToday I doubt everything. Today I am a mess. Today I want to run and hide. <br />I am overwhelmed. I am inadequate. I feel alone. I feel judged. I feel stupid. And I feel like running from it all.<br />But today, I feel that gentle whisper that’s glued to my soul. The deep places of my heart quietly remind me. He loves me. And He is here. And He will carry me when I need it. And He will wipe my tears when I find that taking one more step seems too scary for me. And He said that He goes before me and beside me. And even when everything within me screams failure and impossible and whatever other hopeless words come to mind, He screams beloved, cherished, possible and faithful.<br />So, with that in mind, I put before you some pictures of two constant reminders of that love in my life. (And I need to put a picture up of the third soon, that amazing husband of mine…) Because when I look at them and my heart gushes like Niagra Falls in the middle of a downpour and I realize that in my imperfection I cherish them this much…I guess He does love me like He says He does. I think He really means it.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfH8fNOZzCGsy15S2jCqxRmGw69j_5_MfzzEZNeEDwKI5C5mtZHkLLnB9j9ql1cjRcmuBM3Mt3W5hxzzy-7GkA7T1-6KhJWiElpIeWbOf8ryKMn_JJbfWfIFD7ZHtZJJCL1al7UHA4WKMo/s1600-h/186_Hannah_Jayden_Boxes_September+25,+2009.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfH8fNOZzCGsy15S2jCqxRmGw69j_5_MfzzEZNeEDwKI5C5mtZHkLLnB9j9ql1cjRcmuBM3Mt3W5hxzzy-7GkA7T1-6KhJWiElpIeWbOf8ryKMn_JJbfWfIFD7ZHtZJJCL1al7UHA4WKMo/s400/186_Hannah_Jayden_Boxes_September+25,+2009.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386606250726640066" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvMQ8XD42WrqDJn1dCjs-weEKg0LqXWSGKc1VBMn8mnNFxacn-SAIHR3C2iCQZjjXA9_wLgBF0R8u0GZahVocq-BjGcQSPPwqK6yX6FsOP6on1cOYxJHNxuFuXP1PqYuhHZaLqrm8jMaRx/s1600-h/021_Hannah_Jayden_Boxes_September+25,+2009.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvMQ8XD42WrqDJn1dCjs-weEKg0LqXWSGKc1VBMn8mnNFxacn-SAIHR3C2iCQZjjXA9_wLgBF0R8u0GZahVocq-BjGcQSPPwqK6yX6FsOP6on1cOYxJHNxuFuXP1PqYuhHZaLqrm8jMaRx/s400/021_Hannah_Jayden_Boxes_September+25,+2009.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386606240788576402" /></a>AmyPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05767382106459373606noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2495759592379675191.post-69120808182786730972009-09-22T04:47:00.000-07:002009-09-22T10:40:52.932-07:00I Heart Faces - Week 37Life is full of giggles for her. Running, singing and random acts of dancing define her. She is passionate, excited and typically unbridled. That's why I find this picture so compelling. I caught her. <br />This week I Heart Faces is having a completely candid competition. For lots of other great photos, head on over here and check them out:<br /><br /><center><a href="http://www.iheartfaces.com/"><img src="http://www.livinglocurto.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/smallbutton.jpg"/></a></center><br /><br /><br />In the meantime, I hope you enjoy this photo as much as I do...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwuw2hfd0r4WwDrKmcRAFacLoPYzEsGK8LN7rryiY4hmwFM-HT6Lr5R1RYbqVWyowkI3xznzD47KU_c8cclm9Xx5PjgeYpJbpmd-cHafj610ctLZp1rdFk0H4aCYqeo1P9nsj21uVgfc6H/s1600-h/251_mommydaughterday_September+11,+2009.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwuw2hfd0r4WwDrKmcRAFacLoPYzEsGK8LN7rryiY4hmwFM-HT6Lr5R1RYbqVWyowkI3xznzD47KU_c8cclm9Xx5PjgeYpJbpmd-cHafj610ctLZp1rdFk0H4aCYqeo1P9nsj21uVgfc6H/s400/251_mommydaughterday_September+11,+2009.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384347990408161474" /></a>AmyPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05767382106459373606noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2495759592379675191.post-14164748042431569012009-09-17T18:35:00.000-07:002009-09-17T20:08:34.514-07:00Nicole and Cam"Amy, I just wanted to call and let you know, I found out I'm pregnant. And it's a boy." She actually found out all that information in one day. When Nicole went to the doctor to find out why she was feeling sick, she received a completely unexpected diagnosis. That was the day she found out she was 6 months pregnant and in a few weeks, an adorable little man would be making his way into her home.<br />I would have died. When I found out I was pregnant, I was terrified. Quite honestly - I cried. (For clarification, I have since learned that Hannah was one of the greatest things that ever could have happened to me) And I found out at the beginning. I had those nine-seems-like-eternity/excruciatingly long months to prepare. And pray. And be overwhelmed. Nicole on the other hand, embraced the quick turn of events in a beautiful (and highly organized - no wonder she helps coordinate weddings...) way. With the help of her amazing mother and friends, she prepared herself to welcome one of the most adorable little men I've ever laid eyes on. Nicole is beautiful, brave, patient and so many other things I would like to be. <br />She gave me a precious opportunity to spend a little part of the morning together with them. Though he had some hard moments I was overwhelmed with emotion as I watched Nicole patiently wrap him up in heaps of love. Enjoy precious little Cam. His photos bring tears to my eyes. And Nicole, thank you so much for letting me spend time with you guys. Watching you two interact reminded me of how thankful I should be for every moment.<br />(Side note - for any horizontal photos, just click on the photo to see the whole thing. In my lack of technological prowess, I have not yet been able to widen my blog so that these fit.)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgZ1Ky3y9eNRTWt_PG7EsgcKEkmNs9Q1_IDHx5oXyRgzRAubVkcrGRewqas_b64wVOCH1KLOuTl1eX6_Fp-snyd53iDPqzfZqxtH3e-qZ0ukMsVep0F7HTnola_jIRTI__1yjfrVdx0qxq/s1600-h/092_Nicole_Roby_September+04,+2009watermark.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgZ1Ky3y9eNRTWt_PG7EsgcKEkmNs9Q1_IDHx5oXyRgzRAubVkcrGRewqas_b64wVOCH1KLOuTl1eX6_Fp-snyd53iDPqzfZqxtH3e-qZ0ukMsVep0F7HTnola_jIRTI__1yjfrVdx0qxq/s640/092_Nicole_Roby_September+04,+2009watermark.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382637814440853010" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjniS5Img618maWQ_dADWEaFLBQ9KN8KuWC5ToJeaKE0Zsn7OA17F4w_I7OtAaahwI6w_aiQ5pEij27bKCIsjkInwhcmFI_Pr6yEpNd6f4YByVeGVKWjp4KJ00BUQs98ZU5riMuBUV8u882/s1600-h/122_Nicole_Roby_September+04,+2009watermark.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjniS5Img618maWQ_dADWEaFLBQ9KN8KuWC5ToJeaKE0Zsn7OA17F4w_I7OtAaahwI6w_aiQ5pEij27bKCIsjkInwhcmFI_Pr6yEpNd6f4YByVeGVKWjp4KJ00BUQs98ZU5riMuBUV8u882/s640/122_Nicole_Roby_September+04,+2009watermark.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382637805492191458" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMgpccNuVITjRqiU3ejZurHlsv9BaCwpYPZbBzkRc1ITvfDa80PIs25_f27NTgiOaU_13fxjkqHNXFPVMSs0Q3KKgToTc2TS8KRx-QFX9KpkSErCCOB8lLArLKN8lZsFYNB-DQLbRCEcKc/s1600-h/104_Nicole_Roby_September+04,+2009watermark.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMgpccNuVITjRqiU3ejZurHlsv9BaCwpYPZbBzkRc1ITvfDa80PIs25_f27NTgiOaU_13fxjkqHNXFPVMSs0Q3KKgToTc2TS8KRx-QFX9KpkSErCCOB8lLArLKN8lZsFYNB-DQLbRCEcKc/s640/104_Nicole_Roby_September+04,+2009watermark.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382637132431064562" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRxMiIGrc13-BRIPrs_sbkowt7qQcWZ3jEvgP8p9vwNkOzAGF_ZRG9B_Ac9wl6L8dU857eYRDoBfHRgUVscTcT4oLuex6pbpYeyMEah7qaEOsNSfAhuMyodBc54ZOWf7l8-DuybmxjOze6/s1600-h/086_Nicole_Roby_September+04,+2009watermark.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRxMiIGrc13-BRIPrs_sbkowt7qQcWZ3jEvgP8p9vwNkOzAGF_ZRG9B_Ac9wl6L8dU857eYRDoBfHRgUVscTcT4oLuex6pbpYeyMEah7qaEOsNSfAhuMyodBc54ZOWf7l8-DuybmxjOze6/s640/086_Nicole_Roby_September+04,+2009watermark.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382637127497100066" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn90Hw18E6hcxPAdDdFITgABcg6eggm8dVcrVTjRYsnJAASI-3Bbft4EnQmeUPAEhb5g2ZWrfWVBE7ZA5n9Ywcs5HRcCdEOuQFOrrfeNlERFTOxrBGsN9Tjn9HDCh1I1a3jq85bF4mOqNf/s1600-h/068_Nicole_Roby_September+04,+2009watermark.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn90Hw18E6hcxPAdDdFITgABcg6eggm8dVcrVTjRYsnJAASI-3Bbft4EnQmeUPAEhb5g2ZWrfWVBE7ZA5n9Ywcs5HRcCdEOuQFOrrfeNlERFTOxrBGsN9Tjn9HDCh1I1a3jq85bF4mOqNf/s640/068_Nicole_Roby_September+04,+2009watermark.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382637114799002866" /></a>AmyPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05767382106459373606noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2495759592379675191.post-75269862910290103672009-09-12T05:40:00.000-07:002009-09-12T06:20:35.768-07:00Recipe for Greatness1. Find the most adorable little lady you possibly can. (I'm in luck - I live with her on a daily basis.)<br /><br />2. Whisk her off to a surprise filled day.<br /><br />3. Have her get her nails done. (Working at a spa does make this easier)<br /><br />4. Go to the city. Soak in every moment...AKA don't answer your cell phone or even check it<br /><br />5. Explore.<br /><br />6. Make up songs.<br /><br />7. Snuggle at dinner.<br /><br />8. Get ice cream. Totally get ice cream.<br /><br />9. Go to the beach and prepare to get wet and sandy. Running full force into the water is a must - hand in hand.<br /><br />10. Whenever possible - repeat. (As a side note, there will probably be a large-esque cleaning task ahead of you after your sand-filled friend enters the car. But alas, you'll smile every time you find grains of sand in your car - I promise)<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Yq10XkUkoWS2UKNF8ZEd3wRPDEcDY8JuPCXlNIJoaYG7RnOkg9Gbby7yZ9UMZmaUR8S3BOxeH-cMKa7k19V-9yBHPCXFiRa03oNn_VRuBaa6A8cyR71_bIXC5GlH_nnm97R0GE1xXgnk/s1600-h/102_mommydaughterday_September+11,+2009.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Yq10XkUkoWS2UKNF8ZEd3wRPDEcDY8JuPCXlNIJoaYG7RnOkg9Gbby7yZ9UMZmaUR8S3BOxeH-cMKa7k19V-9yBHPCXFiRa03oNn_VRuBaa6A8cyR71_bIXC5GlH_nnm97R0GE1xXgnk/s640/102_mommydaughterday_September+11,+2009.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380566593343747746" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0mzMgGifcIdcmC0KzSfIkifqgY09Hwsv-w9LWq6w5frr2LhKJ_AxhDo9LNJH0q1jcmtjegeZswOMD4cc-PdTfASEFUwZgpblb43Vr5JwSzmaR4GvhSTB6GVV-s9c3AS97Fe303WLLGI8/s1600-h/178_mommydaughterday_September+11,+2009.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0mzMgGifcIdcmC0KzSfIkifqgY09Hwsv-w9LWq6w5frr2LhKJ_AxhDo9LNJH0q1jcmtjegeZswOMD4cc-PdTfASEFUwZgpblb43Vr5JwSzmaR4GvhSTB6GVV-s9c3AS97Fe303WLLGI8/s640/178_mommydaughterday_September+11,+2009.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380569039616187778" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig6TiwQKRDj3SIFXdXRdYQAD08j74alMsnAb6z3td5_-09V0fZqTfJTMmSRii6HxrwqEeh01eb_IYRfEPZAXBJZPMBBEhNolKYy_Gx38Z1RA95rHOlIJ72FrPWYshNfB4Pb1G6Hmc18EOi/s1600-h/191_mommydaughterday_September+11,+2009.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig6TiwQKRDj3SIFXdXRdYQAD08j74alMsnAb6z3td5_-09V0fZqTfJTMmSRii6HxrwqEeh01eb_IYRfEPZAXBJZPMBBEhNolKYy_Gx38Z1RA95rHOlIJ72FrPWYshNfB4Pb1G6Hmc18EOi/s640/191_mommydaughterday_September+11,+2009.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380566602727840578" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJLs8FwH-nd5uogKe6DTnTk0E5YiWXFOTxUESFYuZPVdpMPptSUtD4PsVhvx5ykDKDaQac_4WW0g9-3lUIVIWcTOs31_RVfPRYCmaqgExQgYCUSYjtKIeojKVJBdVfcu9kqJFYcXP28iV3/s1600-h/199_mommydaughterday_September+11,+2009.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJLs8FwH-nd5uogKe6DTnTk0E5YiWXFOTxUESFYuZPVdpMPptSUtD4PsVhvx5ykDKDaQac_4WW0g9-3lUIVIWcTOs31_RVfPRYCmaqgExQgYCUSYjtKIeojKVJBdVfcu9kqJFYcXP28iV3/s640/199_mommydaughterday_September+11,+2009.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380569053669364898" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsSBsJ4IuH1OVUu3i6h4NXGZVNRjRg6FF8fbTYrSEJZW7OFVv_xFP-v5juESFHC21Rnv9dn8carvQivT0JZ10LpznCA8PbFaBzSr_bmiNjdsMx1HMlquPorQrNwxHRgsLcRClm5mm11L4Q/s1600-h/266_mommydaughterday_September+11,+2009.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsSBsJ4IuH1OVUu3i6h4NXGZVNRjRg6FF8fbTYrSEJZW7OFVv_xFP-v5juESFHC21Rnv9dn8carvQivT0JZ10LpznCA8PbFaBzSr_bmiNjdsMx1HMlquPorQrNwxHRgsLcRClm5mm11L4Q/s640/266_mommydaughterday_September+11,+2009.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380569065234112082" /></a>AmyPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05767382106459373606noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2495759592379675191.post-58329350980609233092009-09-07T20:30:00.000-07:002009-09-07T20:31:23.224-07:00Part 2I took more and more photos and harassed some of my friends into being models for me so I could practice. And I started asking God for a new camera because I was finding that I was at a point where my camera was holding me back from where I wanted to go.<br />Enter my parents. The people who would bend over backwards to help anyone – yeah, that’s them. Honestly, they probably thought I was nuts. But they listened to my excitement and joy over photography and entertained my dreams of becoming a wedding and family photographer. At least they probably enjoyed the extra pictures of the grandkids… But what they were about to do, I could not have been prepared for.<br />Before I continue, there’s something you must know. My parents have never had much. My dad was raised in a family and a time period when getting a piece of fruit for Christmas was considered an amazing luxury. My parents have as a married couple have served within the church for years where they have often given their lives and time away for very little monetary compensation. (Though they would tell you that the people have been worth every minute…or at least most of them…hee hee) So I grew up in a family that didn’t have much. We weren’t lacking anything, but we lived a little more simply. Add to this that the past 5 years have been a little difficult for them to say the least. They were caught in the middle of a very difficult church situation and they needed to leave. They put their house on sale at that point. And they waited for God. And waited. And waited. And they’re still waiting.<br />[Side note: They are not JUST waiting. I could tell you beautiful stories of what they’ve been up to] <br />As you can imagine, their income is less than what it had been…and the original wasn’t that much. The stock market has….done it’s thing, for lack of a better phrase. So needless to say, you would not see money growing on their trees.<br />Now back to my story…I call my parents almost everyday. It started because I wanted to check on them. These precious people had been through a lot. And I just wanted to be a loud voice in their lives letting them know that we loved them, we KNEW they were following God, to be a sounding board for all they wanted to process and to flood them with reminders that we were in it with them.<br />And then it turned. They helped carry me through very lonely times in life. We became even closer than we had ever been. They inspired me by how they handled the difficult things they were dealt. I got to see what a changed, awesome man my dad had become. My mom had become one of my closest friends and we got to talk about God in this awesome way. So…I still call them almost every day because they’re great. (And they put up with my random stories, my crazy ideas and everything else)<br />One day I was talking to my mom at work. I told her about how I wanted a new camera, but there was no way we could afford it and I’d just have to wait. And it wasn’t one of those – I’m trying to hint here kind of moments. I just tell her most everything. She asked how much one would cost and I told her. No big deal. I let her get back to work and went about my day of tickling adorable baby bellies and dancing the robot with my 3 year old. (Ya know, normal run of the mill stuff…)<br />A few days later she picked up the phone and asked me for my bank account number. I was thoroughly confused and asked why. She informed me that they were giving me a new camera. <br />Oh no she didn’t…. I told her no way. It wasn’t gonna happen. My precious, loving mother then said, “Amy, we’re doing this. For weeks now, I had felt like God wanted us to give you $1000. Then when we were talking about I asked you how much a new camera would cost you – you said $1000. And I said, ‘Okay, God, I get the point.’”<br />I hung up the phone. I had no words. And I walked around constantly feeling the need to pinch myself. God overwhelmed me. And some of the most precious people in my life were a part of it. Even when I don’t have some established business. And even when they could use the money for themselves. I’m overwhelmed by their love. And by God’s. And at this moment, that is all I can say. Because more words would clutter the beauty.AmyPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05767382106459373606noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2495759592379675191.post-54628596242875981292009-09-07T20:07:00.000-07:002009-09-07T20:29:16.177-07:00Part 1 (Parte Uno)I haven’t written about it. Why? Probably because I don’t think words can do the grandiose nature justice. Or maybe because it makes me cry. Or maybe because telling the story leaves me vulnerable and somewhat exposed. But you know what – it’s time to go THERE…<br />When Hannah was born, we didn’t have enough money to take her to have pictures made. So…I decided I’d just have to learn how to take good pictures. I sat down in Borders and read a book about how to take pictures hoping that I could capture the beauty of this little lady before me. And I fell in love. (even though I still have some highly awkward photos of her from when I was still in the throes of learning the basics)<br />My gracious in-laws surprised me with a great digital camera. At that time I overwhelmed our hard-drive (and my poor child) with photos of our lives. I started to get better. And I started to love photography more and more.<br />Secretly, I longed for a DSLR camera. But I made fun of myself and thought I was looking to one more possession to make me happy when it wouldn’t. (Yep, I went for a Christian guilt-trip) So I stuffed it. And realized there was no reason for me to have that nice of a camera when I was just taking pics of our family.<br />But I wanted to learn. I even looked into jobs at photography studios because I wanted so desperately to learn and to capture the beauty of the moments around me. But I kept it all a secret. Besides – we could NEVER afford it at that time. <br />Then we had Jayden. Yet another ridiculously gorgeous child was sitting in front of me on a daily basis begging for his beautiful mug to be captured and remembered forever. And so I kept taking pictures and researching how to get better.<br />Cue my amazing husband. Yep – the guy that believes in me when he has no reason to. The guy that watches and somehow finds the most unexpected and inspiring gift he could possibly give you – even if the cost is beyond what you could afford. For my birthday, I was greeted by a large-esque purple Dora-the-Explorer gift bag (hand-picked by my little lady) that contained a DSLR camera. And then cue my tears. And devotion. I started photographing like it was going out of style. I took so many pictures that I single-handedly caused iPhoto to raise a flag of surrender.<br />On the fourth of July, I sat nestled under my cream-colored, snuggly, plush blanket with my journal of early-morning conversations with God sprawled in front of me complete with my soy chai in hand. And at that moment I knew – I want to be a wedding and family photographer. <br />I giggled…like a giddy, slap-happy three year old girl. (And I know this is a fitting description because I live with one of these) And then I laughed out loud. Because seriously – how on earth was that supposed to happen? And how was I ever going to get the camera that I needed? I mean, we had been living paycheck to paycheck until this year when Ted changed jobs and we had finally gotten out of debt.<br />But deep within my soul I knew. And I loved it. I would have the chance to capture memories and stories in such a vivid way? I was in awe that God would let me do something so beautiful, so sacred. And so I made it my mission to learn everything I possibly could. And to enjoy the ride.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Here's a pic of an adorable little man. There will be more to come soon. But his facial expressions make me far too happy and I thought I'd throw it in...<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkHa5xAwjvH7Zc51vqMWQZwpjOubiEXdPDg7DQEblAKdSyqEZxjGSwR-DTek0inkLGm8_RlBZ1Vnn67HQYhJaRt_f5K3hC7OvAFemEJrLK4o5q5vz9_MVX2iyCykysvQaGJCjAD8azjURq/s1600-h/IMG_6735.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkHa5xAwjvH7Zc51vqMWQZwpjOubiEXdPDg7DQEblAKdSyqEZxjGSwR-DTek0inkLGm8_RlBZ1Vnn67HQYhJaRt_f5K3hC7OvAFemEJrLK4o5q5vz9_MVX2iyCykysvQaGJCjAD8azjURq/s640/IMG_6735.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378932471930791586" /></a>AmyPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05767382106459373606noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2495759592379675191.post-12266203084959003542009-08-29T14:01:00.000-07:002009-08-29T14:40:18.251-07:00Oh TheoLate night conversations with him are the best. My eyes may be heavy and my body worn out, but I will still force myself to stay awake to listen to his hilarious commentary on life. (Complete with so much laughter, you'd think we were two years old.) And I NEVER regret staying awake... even when the Starbucks drive-thru whispers sweet little nothings to my car and all but forces my vehicle to come for a caffeine-laden pick-me-up. Why? Because he's worth it and I love him. <br />I love laughing at his ridiculously funny comments. I love staring into his chocolatey brown eyes. And I love that no matter what happens and no matter the imperfections we both bring to the table - I get to have him. I want him in my life everyday...forever. I love the silly songs that he creates when he's really tired. I love the way he decorates children's books with Russian, Scottish and British accents to name a few. (he also has a pretty decent Southern accent he throws in when he knows I'm listening. But to be honest - I almost always listen when he reads to the kids because I find myself unable to do anything else since I'm filled with anticipation of what voice/accent combination he'll bust out next) I love the way he believes in me when I'm given him every reason not to. I love the humility with which he approaches life. I love his laugh, even though when I first heard it, I swore I would never date him. I love that he checks out Mental Floss blog on a daily basis and thinks it's hilarious. I love how he sees the world and how he can dissect issues in such profound ways. I love his brilliance and that so many people don't know about it because he holds it so lightly. I love that just the other day, he worked the word "whippersnapper" into a song for the kids like it's totally normal.<br />I could keep going. But I have children that will wake up soon and commence giggles and the building of Lego monstrosities. In my heart though, I will keep going. Because he's worth it, and it's good for me to remember. <br /><br /><br />And finally, because pictures make everything better, here is the first picture I took with my new camera. (Just testing out lenses in the store) More about that soon. But let's say I'm quite stoked. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge4BvNZ8ruuJb32jrm2lQchCiNoq70fmkBYJ_FJ2lpKV0E3YM_b1p29IrbFeSS_wYlu7E2_RscTCJZUo39xvV-g4I7w3yxbLntUGqk0PuhuApB7mFFBG6EXI6BBAjPJNAXkWzQ9R-g1RE7/s1600-h/IMG_6140.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge4BvNZ8ruuJb32jrm2lQchCiNoq70fmkBYJ_FJ2lpKV0E3YM_b1p29IrbFeSS_wYlu7E2_RscTCJZUo39xvV-g4I7w3yxbLntUGqk0PuhuApB7mFFBG6EXI6BBAjPJNAXkWzQ9R-g1RE7/s640/IMG_6140.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375502670933658290" /></a><br /><br />And so that Jayden can represent...<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUcANVRRxXDfaH70WPCk_QZOLqMXKO9jJDbQZobbiQHPzQ0EITI5Gl8aWIWlxjvrq3Zbu5AekJtE1WiYhhSePFOYSfMjLAlOI3oeRS0WUrpoFcUmJfC2mn8EAoiCoi43HepbvlbXsfAksn/s1600-h/IMG_6157.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUcANVRRxXDfaH70WPCk_QZOLqMXKO9jJDbQZobbiQHPzQ0EITI5Gl8aWIWlxjvrq3Zbu5AekJtE1WiYhhSePFOYSfMjLAlOI3oeRS0WUrpoFcUmJfC2mn8EAoiCoi43HepbvlbXsfAksn/s640/IMG_6157.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375503640367118610" /></a>AmyPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05767382106459373606noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2495759592379675191.post-83988007865550801802009-08-27T08:26:00.001-07:002009-08-27T08:35:04.447-07:00I'm still here...I managed to drop off the face of the earth. Again. It's an incredible talent that I possess.<br />So much has been going on I haven't felt like I've had words to put around it. And due to my perfectionist tendencies, I haven't posted anything because it couldn't describe what was really going on within me.<br />But I'm coming back. I promise.<br />And with so much more. These past few months have been crazy and exciting and overwhelming and eye-opening and a little bit of everything else. And on top of it, due to a gift that I am still so in awe of, I can't think about it without getting misty-eyed, I also was given a new camera. (That story will be coming soon. I cry everytime I think about it...) My lens comes Tuesday and I don't know if I could be more excited. (And sad because that seems so far away) <br />So, I'll be capturing a lot more of the lovely people in my life and hoping to meet a lot more along the way. No more dropping off the face of the earth this time. <br />For any of you reading, I do hope this post finds you having a rock awesome day.AmyPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05767382106459373606noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2495759592379675191.post-37787830622332917152009-07-30T11:33:00.000-07:002009-07-30T17:57:52.308-07:00Sarah and NoahEinstein's bagels complete with shmear. Mocha lights with caramel drizzle hand-crafted by green-aproned baristas. But the common denominator every time? Comfy, oftentimes cushy chairs. Because when I hung out with Sarah, I wanted to take it all in and I never wanted to miss a thing.<br />I first met Sarah when she was in 8th grade. And she's one of those precious, sometimes reserved, thoughtful, hilarious, deep, cares about others with everything that's in her kind of people. She oozes sweetness and hilarity on a regular basis. And over the following years I had my life sprinkled with Einstein's and Starbucks dates where I got the extreme privilege of listening to her process life around her. And I loved it.<br />Even though we'd like to press pause, life keeps going. And she graduated. And we changed churches. But one night I checked my facebook and saw in my inbox a little message from my sweet Sarah. I opened it up and instantly knew it was one of the bravest emails I'd ever read. Though the email was beautiful and risky, there were two words that would go on to dramatically change her life: "I'm pregnant."<br />I read those words and I just desperately wanted to wrap my arms around her and hold her in one of the biggest bear hugs of her life. I couldn't imagine what she was going through. I mean, I was TERRIFIED when I found out I was pregnant with Hannah, but I was married and a little older. But my precious Sarah, was dealing with this alone. And in the context of church - and if we Christians can be honest for a minute - I think we can admit that we don't have the best track record with handling this kind of situation. I just wanted to hold her for a minute and let her know we'd be here. We'd walk through this with her. Heck - if she needed a place to live even - we're here.<br />Turns out, a lot of people made me really proud to be a Christian. Sarah decided she really wanted to keep this precious baby, even though she knew a lot of thing were going to change. And some of the ladies at our former church put together one of the BEST baby showers I've seen. People bent over backwards to make sure this baby was welcomed into this world with everything he needed. And there was no guilt and no shame - at this moment, there was only support and encouragement. (And birthing stories...)<br />A few months later, Noah entered the world. A day after he was born I held him in my arms. (with a little Jayden brewing in my belly...) He was perfect and all kinds of precious. I looked at my precious Sarah - sure she had messed up, but because of how she wrestled through it all with God, she could see the extreme miracle she held in her arms.<br />How she did motherhood at 19 is amazing to me. I know it's been hard, and beautiful. And probably everything else in between. And as a matter of fact, you can read her thoughts and processings here... www.hurricanesarah89.blogspot.com It's almost as good as in person with a cup of coffee or a bagel.<br />Today I want to share some pictures of that beautiful boy that Sarah let me take! I think you'll be as smitten as I was. And as blessed. He loves his mommy and she loves him. And it's awe-inspiring. And please join me in saying happy birthday to Sarah today. Sarah, you are a precious lady and I am so glad that you AND Noah were born. I'm so proud of you.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfNYTFCJvQQWEgGoMHz7F4dpWepijgrXdpmdR1s-1W0iJoxBlI_3HacjAO9nx-m8xsxuldz3BL-cmgx1uAqPbJlgFSF9PDY4U9JST3GQ9_jtwEIUHxnu8nK0UOsFu4tgVOWLqYeJPmRzDm/s1600-h/P6300771.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfNYTFCJvQQWEgGoMHz7F4dpWepijgrXdpmdR1s-1W0iJoxBlI_3HacjAO9nx-m8xsxuldz3BL-cmgx1uAqPbJlgFSF9PDY4U9JST3GQ9_jtwEIUHxnu8nK0UOsFu4tgVOWLqYeJPmRzDm/s640/P6300771.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364326304584654994" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlS5TPPzA_82BxaSGa18liiu_aUe6VYgXAUyG0A4NInhV6czm-iGoQUxeoTvE_ruUpupjvJ_Tv2WAPXhNzxPwk1Ae6r0noHTKJY_Fd0XrlR9P2CvL4wXhI9sx-NByUfwnFUzATS4KtMmqP/s1600-h/P6300850.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlS5TPPzA_82BxaSGa18liiu_aUe6VYgXAUyG0A4NInhV6czm-iGoQUxeoTvE_ruUpupjvJ_Tv2WAPXhNzxPwk1Ae6r0noHTKJY_Fd0XrlR9P2CvL4wXhI9sx-NByUfwnFUzATS4KtMmqP/s640/P6300850.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364326299144539570" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUSBjrFFm9U3lkoGe0RDFKq3ukgaLzdGwfoCWjIhd-WJ99BiaveRqsTUjLsdDflqPurT26io0Ds9-KZpbqcOWva9x1FpNJwIA12fANn9x0ToPMHHuVKsP434_hm4baa9l7MTJRAC5FQmkA/s1600-h/P6300758.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUSBjrFFm9U3lkoGe0RDFKq3ukgaLzdGwfoCWjIhd-WJ99BiaveRqsTUjLsdDflqPurT26io0Ds9-KZpbqcOWva9x1FpNJwIA12fANn9x0ToPMHHuVKsP434_hm4baa9l7MTJRAC5FQmkA/s640/P6300758.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364326288046148802" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg21Ip4dBOqwJlPy1ECDu4D8leAeoHMOi7VkF7muw0S048FD-zXiMalhEiIDFwJvoKxy79L-97bO4ESd7IJBxBKNmeIgL70BRifwnuvJgcY1v7rx2Qj-dv2Q0n3UypaUn7OP6v4QZIRmNJX/s1600-h/P6300732.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg21Ip4dBOqwJlPy1ECDu4D8leAeoHMOi7VkF7muw0S048FD-zXiMalhEiIDFwJvoKxy79L-97bO4ESd7IJBxBKNmeIgL70BRifwnuvJgcY1v7rx2Qj-dv2Q0n3UypaUn7OP6v4QZIRmNJX/s640/P6300732.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364326283479835074" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfo9kRhssSxzvtAuLrfPqU0SI7aVqDyhXDebp_EHICprwHYoYjJ-jKYayB3ZS2D4ORmbUgxg9DCL1CP-RjLxfXdYVKAvCbBmVUs1cxefDiCIumhfP4oJY4Kv6SOmwiRrPiXGNSpCYViy9_/s1600-h/P6300859.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfo9kRhssSxzvtAuLrfPqU0SI7aVqDyhXDebp_EHICprwHYoYjJ-jKYayB3ZS2D4ORmbUgxg9DCL1CP-RjLxfXdYVKAvCbBmVUs1cxefDiCIumhfP4oJY4Kv6SOmwiRrPiXGNSpCYViy9_/s640/P6300859.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364328344622177874" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYmL_QZ2XSu1vwt6E6J8A4QqxHOgyW2Y8yeMKHQTJGAWVEUYd0dSTeioA0-mgoWKGjAWo2MQGg4X5leMjKScpo6_LxiXtmW34U-eTZCH1j1rAU2uaOQOYGgsz_StSu_nR2bCsAZJL9k1A5/s1600-h/P6300775.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYmL_QZ2XSu1vwt6E6J8A4QqxHOgyW2Y8yeMKHQTJGAWVEUYd0dSTeioA0-mgoWKGjAWo2MQGg4X5leMjKScpo6_LxiXtmW34U-eTZCH1j1rAU2uaOQOYGgsz_StSu_nR2bCsAZJL9k1A5/s640/P6300775.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364328336039672786" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKGeQex-u5HqFXxeZgiIsmFPgUu8TdCQsxwx7Gp36ZN9H3O5a6ADU60XlAhidoH1bg7B8HDifqUMAtKH4-bTW19pqzc7bdWV1KN2r8lIFqmBRuDfYwvMg72BqAgUbYs-wqSMLzGh7kNpMB/s1600-h/P6300750.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKGeQex-u5HqFXxeZgiIsmFPgUu8TdCQsxwx7Gp36ZN9H3O5a6ADU60XlAhidoH1bg7B8HDifqUMAtKH4-bTW19pqzc7bdWV1KN2r8lIFqmBRuDfYwvMg72BqAgUbYs-wqSMLzGh7kNpMB/s640/P6300750.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364328328396913570" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVw2akEN3UnGJtKra7ZuSiUMik9rNkeMOT497ln1OseKbWh5ZWJJ65SBAR0r0kmyF7297Edp2o7kKDkO7oi9Jorq8iQhVOd1c6BbLMVIZjh8kE6xFUZKMSbPdoU3ybdxhe6h4OsRmfsg1s/s1600-h/P6300925.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVw2akEN3UnGJtKra7ZuSiUMik9rNkeMOT497ln1OseKbWh5ZWJJ65SBAR0r0kmyF7297Edp2o7kKDkO7oi9Jorq8iQhVOd1c6BbLMVIZjh8kE6xFUZKMSbPdoU3ybdxhe6h4OsRmfsg1s/s640/P6300925.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364329444082922114" /></a><br /><br />There's so many others to choose from, but there's a start!AmyPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05767382106459373606noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2495759592379675191.post-73896580561000852142009-07-29T18:19:00.000-07:002009-07-30T17:58:05.267-07:00My current emotional roller-coasterSeconds seems like hours. Minutes pass like days. When someone who is so much a part of yourself is hurting, time goes so slowly. My heart aches. Prayers sometimes seem to be the most powerful thing in the world and in the next moment, I feel like they bounce back into my face like a really bad version of Pong. My soul can’t rest. I’ve tried distracting myself. I’ve tried checking my email approximately 72 times in a period of 5 minutes wondering if maybe I’ll get one that makes a difference. Maybe they’ll be okay. Maybe it will be better. Maybe God will have shown up in their lives and they’ll sit there elated with the fact that He loves them so much that He did… But alas, that email hasn’t come. Not even an email with a dancing hamster that could occupy my mind for a good 2 minutes and 43 seconds.<br />But this is life. I cannot make up anyone else’s mind. And as much as I have exploding volcanoes implanted within me of realizing how much He adores them and could change their life, I can’t choose for them. And in this moment, with no feedback and no indication and a whole bunch of no information, I have no idea if God is doing anything. It hurts. I want desperately to control this situation. And I swear to you my motives are good. Really good. Like coming from “Jesus changed life in this ridiculously awesome way” good. Like “I just found the fact that I don’t have to be a product of my past and I desperately want that for this person” good. Like “I am still messed up, but I don’t live in the constant hell-hole trap of constantly wondering if I’m good enough and trying to be funny yet not succeeding, trying to find meaning in the empty yet never enough approval of others, I’m free now” good. And I could keep going. <br />But this one’s out of my hands. This is between them and Him. And I hate it.<br />I totally wish that clever, here’s the perfect thing to say that changes everything and leads to tears and hand holding and kumbayah-ish feelings marinating in the glow of a campfire (and possibly s’mores) would come. But it hasn’t. There’s no script for this. This isn’t up to me.<br />And you know what? I’m scared. Really brutally scared. Scared He won’t show up. Like I literally want to do God’s job for Him right now because I think I could do it better-scared. And I’m thinking that’s got to be pretty warped. I’m thinking He knows them better than I know them. I’m thinking He had a pretty large-esque role in the formation of their toes and nose and eyebrows. I’m thinking there hasn’t been a moment that He hasn’t been there, watching them, (kind of like how I watch my kids and can’t speak because I’m so in love with them and a mere word would ruin the joy of watching them in all their beauty) loving them, waiting for them. And I’ve only been in the equation for a few years. I’m thinking He loves them more than I do, even though parts of me would want to wrestle for it. (have a feeling I know who would win. I’m just sayin’) And I’m thinking He’s faithful. I mean – I’m not gonna lie – I don’t always get what He’s doing, I sometimes take issue with what life seems to throw in my face or that of my friends, BUT if I look at the WHOLE of life, I see a whole lot of faithfulness going on. And He did say so Himself. A few times. I’m thinking He’s trustworthy.<br />So I’m still scared. But I’m starting to realize I probably shouldn’t be. And no matter what this friend comes out deciding or not deciding, I’m still gonna love them. There’s no way I can change that. And I’m betting God will still keep waiting for them, no matter what. And that comforts me. After all, He waited on me.AmyPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05767382106459373606noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2495759592379675191.post-78575449692718822762009-07-28T15:13:00.000-07:002009-07-30T17:58:22.881-07:00Katie and familyI knew he made her swoon. Yes, full-on legitimate, I really can use that word - swoon. She was smitten - from the way he loved God to the way he loved his kids. And I got to watch as the tall coffee had to switch to a venti because of great late night phone conversations. He loved her. But how could you not love Katie? The fiery red-headed, hilarious, bend-over-backwards to help someone, single-handedly outfitted my first child, hardworking, GORGEOUS, dedicated, Jesus-loving, rock awesome colorist/stylist... To know her IS to love her. Watching God bring them and their amazing kids together was so beautiful. And a few months after they were married - a little Addison was on her way. <br />How do you describe this family? Hilarious, exciting, loving, crazy awesome and the like. <br />Thank you so much for letting me use you as models! Michael, I love the way you love your kids and our beautiful Katie. Grace, thanks for all the ideas as we took pictures! Caleb - I'm now going to have to research the Nintendo DSi thanks to you. Alexis - I loved the chance to hang out with you. Addison - I've got a potential boyfriend for you down the road because girl, you are all things sweet and cute. And Katie - thanks for letting me join your family. And for making work even better over the past 4 years as you've followed God and shared your life (and your sweet hair-cutting skills) with me. You rock.<br /><br />And Katie - these aren't necessarily the best photos - but these were the ones that I picked while eating dinner and feeding Jayden his food at the same time. (Definitely now have chicken noodle mush on my floor) So, I'll try to post more later, but at least this is a taste!<br />And the rest of the world - this family rocked this photoshoot. When we got to our location we were informed they were closing in 30 minutes. We got out and rocked out some fast and furious photos, so be impressed that they made this happen. they're incredible.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGWPI8c2ayttt2h183CzOWARajNwQN4L_oycFjMme0sYlb1bJHtBt5yykT-ZQhTIjGKXJVufwg2veteo8zwj-2DznfuvEHshwXztmX6UOSEDtew0I9EsWkr1lAZjQ9Ae5i7CKsab31eGtn/s1600-h/P6270533.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGWPI8c2ayttt2h183CzOWARajNwQN4L_oycFjMme0sYlb1bJHtBt5yykT-ZQhTIjGKXJVufwg2veteo8zwj-2DznfuvEHshwXztmX6UOSEDtew0I9EsWkr1lAZjQ9Ae5i7CKsab31eGtn/s640/P6270533.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363647570624753810" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi76VdxV_tDZ6QoXMYjyWFHcrPYmusTpB45bkjDSiIQ8qbxVnYK_ywsguCzIYngdxskEomCz33VePl_ol1rwg9eJPqvjcpMUfKRJy5ggzDrvIeptRRanbeqkCTdEU97N-t8PDdmsOyGt8OB/s1600-h/P6270457.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi76VdxV_tDZ6QoXMYjyWFHcrPYmusTpB45bkjDSiIQ8qbxVnYK_ywsguCzIYngdxskEomCz33VePl_ol1rwg9eJPqvjcpMUfKRJy5ggzDrvIeptRRanbeqkCTdEU97N-t8PDdmsOyGt8OB/s640/P6270457.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363647561849334386" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmlUeL0SxFWyAcAb6ZcBz-BUgjeZgmzYDHuZDfVI4esBedrFQcpgc-pAVVXc9f-ASaowYRA_L41ju8wgo1MLXJiiHl2PJucfoBT1tpzQ5o43s3lPQz0tDfHNK4nvNyfmFKztSDRy8uThhh/s1600-h/P6270417.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmlUeL0SxFWyAcAb6ZcBz-BUgjeZgmzYDHuZDfVI4esBedrFQcpgc-pAVVXc9f-ASaowYRA_L41ju8wgo1MLXJiiHl2PJucfoBT1tpzQ5o43s3lPQz0tDfHNK4nvNyfmFKztSDRy8uThhh/s640/P6270417.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363647552131788530" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB2VA6FrHJRZFtQLko3u-2nFpdvE0FYM6bpgUn2IjNT_KVexuVMaBe6YGIUsQ3JoDdv84BsUObHNwqPv9BdmpA2_v0_5UngJZTkFG5-LU7egupnfhoYSds9ibkYKie1FI-wBJXw_H0objM/s1600-h/P6270494.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB2VA6FrHJRZFtQLko3u-2nFpdvE0FYM6bpgUn2IjNT_KVexuVMaBe6YGIUsQ3JoDdv84BsUObHNwqPv9BdmpA2_v0_5UngJZTkFG5-LU7egupnfhoYSds9ibkYKie1FI-wBJXw_H0objM/s640/P6270494.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363651588993233522" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCx2U-XLUuCGWpg5_xnO5qXnzulxfiIT162FBFXqXnbB3qOPyg59yr9hHIAJm2nE4phicUGJ3Y83GkISeI2rNs6Hifn2WdSpqWP-ZN7BqqHX_VIZ3Fqm_g8XiWgdUAXa_0OdmyHr5IR81Q/s1600-h/P6270509.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCx2U-XLUuCGWpg5_xnO5qXnzulxfiIT162FBFXqXnbB3qOPyg59yr9hHIAJm2nE4phicUGJ3Y83GkISeI2rNs6Hifn2WdSpqWP-ZN7BqqHX_VIZ3Fqm_g8XiWgdUAXa_0OdmyHr5IR81Q/s640/P6270509.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363651583221186514" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpXeGFfi8DxCRT0gB0DU-uJuAhaw3XgwMeiba3QSkBB6_oDX3vYRLnJTi3G0rQMTjiUYQEKYS5a3DFymsbMqjl6YydrtD3Na4nttK1GNIOLAAsydjOq1ghelPbXa-VwM94oy3TItrow8DE/s1600-h/P6270590.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpXeGFfi8DxCRT0gB0DU-uJuAhaw3XgwMeiba3QSkBB6_oDX3vYRLnJTi3G0rQMTjiUYQEKYS5a3DFymsbMqjl6YydrtD3Na4nttK1GNIOLAAsydjOq1ghelPbXa-VwM94oy3TItrow8DE/s640/P6270590.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363651576262585954" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTmhyOJFrY2FVuBepuHPVNtnOcp9q6f-JMbNx1FJBxXf6QseuND2z-o_ILKGK5-Znr66Q82GS8-Wct8wy8EFMraJcyh3TTzckmwZlgbtyt7C_HdXKOLFfXeRF3krj2M3aal2LWpp6Rk5DE/s1600-h/P6270597.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTmhyOJFrY2FVuBepuHPVNtnOcp9q6f-JMbNx1FJBxXf6QseuND2z-o_ILKGK5-Znr66Q82GS8-Wct8wy8EFMraJcyh3TTzckmwZlgbtyt7C_HdXKOLFfXeRF3krj2M3aal2LWpp6Rk5DE/s640/P6270597.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363651566305416690" /></a>AmyPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05767382106459373606noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2495759592379675191.post-9774295283807486882009-07-13T07:20:00.000-07:002009-07-30T17:58:47.082-07:00Chad and KristenThere are times in our lives where words epically fail us. There's no possible way that a few letters strung together can capture with accuracy the awe, wonder and excitement that is bouncing off the walls of your heart. And that's where I'm at in this moment. A few weeks ago I got news that made me bust out in the happy dance, complete with arms flailing, high-pitched squeals and the like. I found out that my brother-in-law, Chad and his AMAZING girlfriend Kristen were engaged. You may not be able to fully comprehend how great this is. I tear up just thinking about the how wonderful it is that this lady who is such an overwhelming heap of loveliness in our lives is now OFFICIALLY going to be my sister-in-law. That's like Baskin Robbins without calories good. I'm so ridiculously thrilled I could pee my pants. For the time being, we'll just let Jayden do that. <br />I asked them if they wouldn't mind being models for me as I learn to work with adults who can sit still as opposed to the constantly moving children I chase on a daily basis. For some reason, they graciously agreed. These pictures don't do that beauty of their relationship justice, but it's a start. And there's so many more. I didn't even get all of my favorites... But here's a few. <br />Thank you Chad and Kristen for being a part of our lives. You guys ooze amazingness.<br />And just to let anyone else know - I have the BEST sister-in-laws EVER. Hands down. I'm a lucky lady. The men in my life married soooooooo well<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8fmFTZeyQRr6lZEWAxL4xC0wojg9d6msQoruXdvyqN33yZvo8zHwhHTmeu4YREMYRlAiNHltIZjjqxVF4yZ19jaTUqPyvhTgikkUzb2o2K8N69rEXXBglX3BG5yw31-x4M_ItUW1MWDLL/s1600-h/P6130478_2.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8fmFTZeyQRr6lZEWAxL4xC0wojg9d6msQoruXdvyqN33yZvo8zHwhHTmeu4YREMYRlAiNHltIZjjqxVF4yZ19jaTUqPyvhTgikkUzb2o2K8N69rEXXBglX3BG5yw31-x4M_ItUW1MWDLL/s640/P6130478_2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357956602546957522" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivZgDw7OJHD5ZkfYignkPkNp3q1fXv6dNql0pQGXHDCOVu6CWY2dnsr4QcoUij6xljkeJhZNh79gfc72MltRBmGhBIg6CPCJi457MDzoM8BbbvlPCV8Rh2w06rWAB95uE3pewoh2C6Dpb-/s1600-h/P6130560_3.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivZgDw7OJHD5ZkfYignkPkNp3q1fXv6dNql0pQGXHDCOVu6CWY2dnsr4QcoUij6xljkeJhZNh79gfc72MltRBmGhBIg6CPCJi457MDzoM8BbbvlPCV8Rh2w06rWAB95uE3pewoh2C6Dpb-/s640/P6130560_3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357956600211259218" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGhthk9nW6w1tnn-W4r0YN9Hp1IYAF-vIu0e24KG2JW_Ts1Eu_F0IkMOX0uJGxcsOMjSvTkmRfMXg0Oq_eqybYpQc3aV72qCOZm5KyuxaXJWGBhDKPhh3hWS8heTRFT7bsrhFDpZ7yJgCx/s1600-h/P6130414_2.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGhthk9nW6w1tnn-W4r0YN9Hp1IYAF-vIu0e24KG2JW_Ts1Eu_F0IkMOX0uJGxcsOMjSvTkmRfMXg0Oq_eqybYpQc3aV72qCOZm5KyuxaXJWGBhDKPhh3hWS8heTRFT7bsrhFDpZ7yJgCx/s640/P6130414_2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357956583893404370" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWuEdQG8b6EWoAO_RnsV6dViL3lNk89HJDxUMDUGzUyz8KUJ28gdmsjc5j5a8LcDhaOO_CkCvR-sShFSSkE8z4jvAzNsl6oYGBEcr5YGd-AKfLJiWzR5k4FwIFFfVjyLIHHaqud4FL5DiV/s1600-h/P6130406_3.jpg"><img style="float:left; 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margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMeUfZqfBj-yHOXYpUti_Mul_9RN4S3v_pDm8CPsu3ntDIHrolq2jC60fFYYSF08I8BuR45M-Nn-4xjnS7Is8x3G7sZX6Mwxp3igA-4fiGl4KP7y-_uakXGBQiUM5ZuETo9MlLnS6kvZky/s640/P6130443.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357961297291711970" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEien_P2LaY2o6hECEMplfufFk__sU4-lEKtDminNvWGbb6eEYDLB5fimMoDfS4JVNuMCe0QB0o5Vs_cyisBZdwwYxEoc3VkTG4vzbDcIQpn_AsKRrwo3QT7orrFrZSS6QUkNLkWoLdHTCrq/s1600-h/P6130446.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEien_P2LaY2o6hECEMplfufFk__sU4-lEKtDminNvWGbb6eEYDLB5fimMoDfS4JVNuMCe0QB0o5Vs_cyisBZdwwYxEoc3VkTG4vzbDcIQpn_AsKRrwo3QT7orrFrZSS6QUkNLkWoLdHTCrq/s640/P6130446.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357961288357409042" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTbQjHzkpm7HE4pGae1tJLtnx5SAi1g29EP1pF2ZpsD4hWzo2YPL6xeIkA88aWwyKlvblP4s2R_prvb4x5eAUfVJU4sAa6L9B1lMI7TAn56A8ggdaiw9IDib-1R-gfKarrsWyS0wa3HGZa/s1600-h/P6130478_3.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTbQjHzkpm7HE4pGae1tJLtnx5SAi1g29EP1pF2ZpsD4hWzo2YPL6xeIkA88aWwyKlvblP4s2R_prvb4x5eAUfVJU4sAa6L9B1lMI7TAn56A8ggdaiw9IDib-1R-gfKarrsWyS0wa3HGZa/s640/P6130478_3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358031369647922658" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc8KBQoWMxUvy1kfhSsOJHrCAzTW1j4QsamjDH2-P_6xtqpcKzgbqoAEsGdShIlBbUs5E2cdoNZ34dCbt-2iuDFWAs9uq-NbqwfVJUmhPX4XLJT_Xq_YnooixqxvqtYuOp0DJadgCaV40v/s1600-h/P6130485_3.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc8KBQoWMxUvy1kfhSsOJHrCAzTW1j4QsamjDH2-P_6xtqpcKzgbqoAEsGdShIlBbUs5E2cdoNZ34dCbt-2iuDFWAs9uq-NbqwfVJUmhPX4XLJT_Xq_YnooixqxvqtYuOp0DJadgCaV40v/s640/P6130485_3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358031358422094226" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJqS47A4_d6o3mztb2WAnwqhEJznTl9kUwjzQr9K_mvOYHPpKQfdRUr7oSyAPn0La7QqSQgK0e8kk8zWZeREZij4S0uUztLijw1uEzP4RXK9LExrMQ53JINpwtXhEytM26CAk_qTmMisox/s1600-h/P6130465.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJqS47A4_d6o3mztb2WAnwqhEJznTl9kUwjzQr9K_mvOYHPpKQfdRUr7oSyAPn0La7QqSQgK0e8kk8zWZeREZij4S0uUztLijw1uEzP4RXK9LExrMQ53JINpwtXhEytM26CAk_qTmMisox/s640/P6130465.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358031349549151714" /></a>AmyPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05767382106459373606noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2495759592379675191.post-89185197803928775332009-07-09T13:19:00.000-07:002009-07-30T17:55:02.715-07:00The decisionOkay...side note. I wrote this a few weeks ago as I was processing the whole decision to try ADD medication. (Thus the title of my blog...) I've now started and though it's still a struggle, I realize what a great gift it is. So here's my processing moment from a few weeks ago. There's more, but I'll post that later...<br /><br /><br />Failure. I feel like I’ve hit it. <br />We’ve decided that it’s time for me to go on medication. (for ADD) Well…I say “we” but really Ted probably decided it was a good idea a long time ago and I am finally yielding to his superior idea. And though I know in my head this has to be a good idea, my heart is a broken mess of feeling failure, inadequacy, and a whole lot of sadness that I just wasn’t able to live life on my own.<br />I’m not enough.<br />But the truth is, I’m tired of this lifestyle. I’m tired of too many ideas becoming like a bouncy ball bonanza in my head. (And yes there is a website with that as a title – google it…) I’m tired of being so overwhelmed by the ridiculously amazing list of things I want to accomplish and sitting there unable to do anything until we’re within hours of the deadline. I’m tired of my inability to respond to email. I’m tired of finding thank you and thinking about you notes from years ago that I just never mailed. (Still have some from my wedding, so if you didn’t get one…I probably have it and I am far too ashamed to send it.) I’m tired of the constant feeling that if I could just sit down and think I could change the world. I’m tired of brilliant ideas that float in and out of my head. I’m tired of having people ask me how my weekend was and the blank stare that habitually overcomes my face because I genuinely cannot remember what I did that weekend. (And that’s without the help of any substances.) I am tired of making my 3 yr. old pray that we can find Mommy’s keys so that we can arrive to our destination a good 20 minutes late. I’m tired of all of my friends realizing that when we set a time to hang out, they can afford to be 5-10 minutes late because there is no way on God’s green earth that I’ll be there on time. I’m tired of the shame that comes when my daughter has to bring me my phone that I lost again and again. I’m tired of taking classes, asking teachers for ridiculously long extensions, sitting blankly in front of a computer screen and then finally (up to a semester or 2 later) turning in the work all to receive what would have been an A. <br />So I guess it’s time to get help. I guess it’s time to be able to really live my dreams that are vivid and yet uncompleted due to ADD. So here I am, realizing it’s okay. Or maybe not within my soul, but at least in my head. Well, that’s a start, right?<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />So there's a start. I put it out there. As absolutely terrifying as it was. And so, I'll post a picture. That makes everything better, right?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg14j6UlwN0rjNAoBfnhc1m23MRrgEzysZAjCLjsDJT8ZeF6WX8TzfI_5ul70algu2CmfdC2dCdaqfUbw6HoPYifyTwDPr_NVNAjbANZr4tFhDLe0uGZtuW-rB-a5XrcDr6OlOCl3iKmn-K/s1600-h/P6040065.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg14j6UlwN0rjNAoBfnhc1m23MRrgEzysZAjCLjsDJT8ZeF6WX8TzfI_5ul70algu2CmfdC2dCdaqfUbw6HoPYifyTwDPr_NVNAjbANZr4tFhDLe0uGZtuW-rB-a5XrcDr6OlOCl3iKmn-K/s640/P6040065.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5356560819387716130" /></a>AmyPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05767382106459373606noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2495759592379675191.post-59805942038387670682009-06-29T20:53:00.000-07:002009-06-29T21:06:47.024-07:00I ♥ Faces - Week 25This is me wishing I had something to offer that could really capture the beauty of the event. Today I don't. But in an effort to throw rocks at my perfectionism, I'm entering a precious moment - even if I didn't necessarily capture it the way I'd want to. Here is a photo from my cousin's wedding. Beautiful doesn't even begin to describe it. To hear their story of how God brought them together, to hear the minister help all of us stop in awe of the beauty of love the way God gives it and to glance over and watch my daughter on the edge of the pew straining to see the bride was fantastic. So here's the grand exit. And congrats to them!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMfOk3wA8IMiZ2TATtnxA5SF3-TRDawEUtSTdcZe4Oa7n8DpzUn1PelJFk3Oq9ItJjILDSyKPRp683bNHWDxF_9Pkd3q3EIt8yk_U8xpvF-Pot9V1bjlxHGxhwImJBuJHg6fB9y7lu9hRk/s1600-h/P5090186.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: " src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMfOk3wA8IMiZ2TATtnxA5SF3-TRDawEUtSTdcZe4Oa7n8DpzUn1PelJFk3Oq9ItJjILDSyKPRp683bNHWDxF_9Pkd3q3EIt8yk_U8xpvF-Pot9V1bjlxHGxhwImJBuJHg6fB9y7lu9hRk/s640/P5090186.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5352965792311319698" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />And you should totally check out all the other rock awesome entries at:<br /><center><a href="http://www.iheartfaces.com/"><img src="http://www.livinglocurto.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/125x125.jpg"/></a></center>AmyPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05767382106459373606noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2495759592379675191.post-30638724066699694022009-06-22T18:29:00.000-07:002009-06-22T18:46:48.274-07:00I ♥ Faces - Week 24This week it's all about the boys... And here are some of my favorites. The first picture is my little Jayden. The little man that made a surprise entrance into our lives just when we thought we were going to start the adoption process. (Which we are still going to do, we're just waiting a little while) He is amazing. I never thought I wanted a boy, but I had no idea how great it would be. I adore him.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO9Oqr8iBB5LtDHSYmkDAM29-MQzVQbYXkBAfs0hW8VuavD_Qk7epsAV_6SNnyGcVtwheCJZVxd5Xtly1vts3QbEpApPJXL0cPd-d1uWIb3XdK3U1aQEuBb_4UM-LTOgzYlWPYHeqbFvG8/s1600-h/P4300425.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO9Oqr8iBB5LtDHSYmkDAM29-MQzVQbYXkBAfs0hW8VuavD_Qk7epsAV_6SNnyGcVtwheCJZVxd5Xtly1vts3QbEpApPJXL0cPd-d1uWIb3XdK3U1aQEuBb_4UM-LTOgzYlWPYHeqbFvG8/s320/P4300425.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5350331660628444258" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />The other picture is for my adult entry. This past weekend was my father-in-law's birthday so the whole family came to surprise him. I caught a picture of he and Jayden at the pool party they had for him. <br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgutc_bJESib5KQou3XhvSEuoiMYbtMk-6sRYnlT0mtLChj5BftSPKSt3CRUy2uPl9SwKJEDryNQRTAxjKNKhk7u8pNLTWwR-FuKF-P0jZCNRoR14XS0aOPWNVVsCYGteXB_XcT0o09I0Ij/s1600-h/P5230420.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgutc_bJESib5KQou3XhvSEuoiMYbtMk-6sRYnlT0mtLChj5BftSPKSt3CRUy2uPl9SwKJEDryNQRTAxjKNKhk7u8pNLTWwR-FuKF-P0jZCNRoR14XS0aOPWNVVsCYGteXB_XcT0o09I0Ij/s320/P5230420.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5350332260473000370" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Thanks for checking out my photos and take some time to check out the other great pictures at:<br /><center><a href="http://www.iheartfaces.com/"><img src="http://www.livinglocurto.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/125x125.jpg"/></a></center>AmyPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05767382106459373606noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2495759592379675191.post-86709139114701872092009-06-19T05:43:00.000-07:002009-07-30T17:59:03.564-07:00Waiting for herI don’t know where you are. You may only be a thought. Maybe you’re developing inside of your birth mother – moving and growing and sprouting fingernails. Or maybe you’re in a crib somewhere. Right now I don’t know. But I do know that I love you. And I can’t wait to hold you.<br />I think about that day all the time. We just celebrated your brother’s 7th month of life and I found myself longing for you as I sat there in awe of the idea that I’ve now shared seven months with your amazing brother. I wonder where you are. <br />I don’t want you to have even a moment without arms around you. I’m praying for your birth mom and family. I’m praying for the doctors that deliver you. And I pray for whomever cares for you (nurses, orphanage care assistants, foster parents…I don’t even know). I pray that they’ll realize just how special you are. I pray that they will let you know as well. I pray that no matter what you face in the days before we meet you and for all your days after that God is whispering into your ear that He loves you. I pray that you’ll have the joy of hearing Him sing over you, even if your life begins with no one to do that for you. I pray that He’ll be so near to you and hold you so ridiculously tight. I pray that He’ll record somehow every moment of your development – your cribmates if you have any, your birth, your everything and let me watch it one day if I can’t be a part of it when it happens. <br />And I know He’ll take good care of you. I know He loves you even more than I could. And I know He will be giddy with excitement over each coo, every gassy “smile” and every little newborn startle you might have before and after we meet you. But so you know, I long to be there for it all because you are that important.<br />We’ll see what He does. Right now we’re just waiting. We talk about you all the time. Hannah even tells people about her sister. (And she’s not just trying to insult Jayden.) I pray for all the moments of your life and I think about you all the time. As we laugh and celebrate as a family, I think about how great it will be to add you to all of it. I realize we’re probably not ready for you yet – and hey – maybe you’re not even growing inside of your birth mother yet. But I can’t wait to hold you in my arms and whisper your name over you, Mia. By the time you read this, I’ll probably have told you a million times, but God has given you the name Mia so that you would know He calls you “mine.” And to think I get to have that privilege too…<br />I love you. I can’t wait to meet you.<br /><br />Love,<br />Mommy<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8YUGJZhnkJ3vbscyV9PMglDC7fcY49T-UjyOOh-S8DfFQnj1MmTqrtv2EbM4lhl7yrRCcWTpF4JAeROWvfrTeAy1crx9O9dL5bEJVnhju2KSGYO_fNDW3uv5-0EeKaW4IjUO4FgT2g7bL/s1600-h/P5190242.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8YUGJZhnkJ3vbscyV9PMglDC7fcY49T-UjyOOh-S8DfFQnj1MmTqrtv2EbM4lhl7yrRCcWTpF4JAeROWvfrTeAy1crx9O9dL5bEJVnhju2KSGYO_fNDW3uv5-0EeKaW4IjUO4FgT2g7bL/s320/P5190242.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5349019323005421250" /></a>AmyPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05767382106459373606noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2495759592379675191.post-15727041089445892502009-06-15T12:58:00.001-07:002009-07-30T17:56:02.509-07:00Oh, ya know...I don't know the last time that I had a full and complete at least somewhat rational thought. This would be me on the downward spiral of ADD. This is where I can't think at all. And I feel like I'm completely stuck drowning in this pit.<br />So many things are racing through my head. Anger towards parents who love to complain about their kids, joy over taking Jayden to the pool for the first time and the precious moment you experience when you realize how amazing it is that you get to see this little person's firsts..., gratitude for my church and the amazingly broken, honest, committed people there, embarrassment over the hypocrisy in my life, and it just keeps going. <br />But the one thing I'm trying to cling to just happened. I was so frustrated with Jayden. (my 7 month old little man) He wouldn't stop crying and it was beyond time for him to be napping. His preferred method of coping at that moment: screaming. I was so angry with him. I wanted to just walk away. I found myself ridiculously frustrated that he doesn't understand much English and that you just couldn't reason with him and help him see that napping would clearly be the best thing for all of us. <br />And then I realized. That's me. And God never walks out on me.<br />I looked deep into Jayden's eyes. I apologized for how angry I was with him. And I made a vow that went something like this:<br /><br />Jayden Michael, I vow to love you. I vow that I will continually come back to giving you everything I have for all the days that God gives me. I vow to remember that you are an incredible gift and that even in the hard moments, it is an extreme privilege to walk through life with you. I vow to give you all that I can as your mommy. I vow to carry you when you need it (hopefully representing how God carries you), to hold your hand when life is hard and to watch and be your biggest fan when you don't need me. I vow to do my best to help you learn to depend on Jesus and to show you what His love for you looks like - the crazy, reckless, amazing love that He showed by His life and by His death. I vow to keep pursuing God and letting Him rip out and redo all the ugly, messy, warped areas of my life from my own issues and the things others have done in my life as well. I vow to give you all the love I can give, even when it's hard.<br /><br /><br />I think what I said was better then and that's when it mattered anyway. But there's an idea. And in an attempt to throw rocks at my ridiculous obsession with only putting "perfect" things out into the view of others...here it is unedited. And unperfect. And with a big thank you to my husband for teaching me that is okay to fail. I'm a blessed girl.<br />Great friends. Great man. Great God. Great church. Great spa... And GREAT kids<br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj62cbCJkXaD6p6JmyUVqTuJcJtOrpEy6bncw5K9iuPlEiV_Zi656TXnsFrCHZ7WHvNF7FijKr8i5GGBJKCQpyYn27m7lBDYXQef-bRP2bLOTpzC0mNjywidlzG0RZa45ZgRiQNIcbyuwtD/s1600-h/P4160194.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj62cbCJkXaD6p6JmyUVqTuJcJtOrpEy6bncw5K9iuPlEiV_Zi656TXnsFrCHZ7WHvNF7FijKr8i5GGBJKCQpyYn27m7lBDYXQef-bRP2bLOTpzC0mNjywidlzG0RZa45ZgRiQNIcbyuwtD/s320/P4160194.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5347652352348759842" /></a>AmyPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05767382106459373606noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2495759592379675191.post-28440232027066874752009-06-15T04:21:00.000-07:002009-06-15T04:33:27.504-07:00I ♥ Faces - Week 23 (Sepia Toned)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq6kiFHrNfW2BpUhC5mV_r5_P3AVcARgGS7LYIawNRw310TUdTqBolb_Xhf23aaow98xuZHiQl_URsXT4FpFsKXkbWGV9VLZ-BfnxTaGC3Ueufcv8ADtyE_8KkwcHX4QUyTUQ7sCVZ_lEX/s1600-h/P5050021.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq6kiFHrNfW2BpUhC5mV_r5_P3AVcARgGS7LYIawNRw310TUdTqBolb_Xhf23aaow98xuZHiQl_URsXT4FpFsKXkbWGV9VLZ-BfnxTaGC3Ueufcv8ADtyE_8KkwcHX4QUyTUQ7sCVZ_lEX/s320/P5050021.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5347515112936140610" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href="http://www.iheartfaces.com/"><img src="http://www.livinglocurto.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/125x125.jpg"/></a></center><br /><br /><br />Two weeks ago I came across a great website, I ♥ Faces. They have weekly photo competitions to inspire everyone to pursue photography and to continue challenging yourself. So I decided to give it a shot.<br />Here is my sweet little Hannah. I had been taking a few pictures of Jayden and her, but it was a little too close to naptime and it put Hannah's ability to handle life and brothers into jeopardy. Thus the tears. I promise I absolutely took care of those tears...right after taking this picture. <br />Feel free to head on over to their website to see a lot more incredible pictures!AmyPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05767382106459373606noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2495759592379675191.post-6595064966347722282009-06-02T17:58:00.000-07:002009-07-30T17:56:26.276-07:00A beautiful day in my neighborhood<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi48X_t21yynu2g1QSZUlxJ7WuirF3H_BgszXqWiXARbCtBXnbb2T0vQwGDyZUIW4JfzGSqeR1iiPSGMqpVFYOYchzS7eQTSGbhu8eltfPl09FF9K53rOt6PS0_wfVYlLU67zrpgDF1w9et/s1600-h/P5050048.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi48X_t21yynu2g1QSZUlxJ7WuirF3H_BgszXqWiXARbCtBXnbb2T0vQwGDyZUIW4JfzGSqeR1iiPSGMqpVFYOYchzS7eQTSGbhu8eltfPl09FF9K53rOt6PS0_wfVYlLU67zrpgDF1w9et/s320/P5050048.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342900348005735554" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjejklDBpmpZLP3I9I6maQhC5zv1JAIFAlAAGtB_Ou3XhnxbiteCCjWIHRL4zm1HlpeIHrxG7_0Djb-kqdDynRxaYAxNYGhyphenhyphen4OLy02hIYy_XPZrUoXx0TQ4YuoFBz9bmkoul4guaV6VhbD3/s1600-h/P5050018.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjejklDBpmpZLP3I9I6maQhC5zv1JAIFAlAAGtB_Ou3XhnxbiteCCjWIHRL4zm1HlpeIHrxG7_0Djb-kqdDynRxaYAxNYGhyphenhyphen4OLy02hIYy_XPZrUoXx0TQ4YuoFBz9bmkoul4guaV6VhbD3/s320/P5050018.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342900343963823266" /></a><br /><br />I sometimes feel like the poster child for ADD. In an effort to post something of worth even if I don't have time to write and process all the thoughts bouncing around in my head (and yes, they do bounce), I thought I could at least post something that describes the beauty before me on a daily basis. So here's a little peek into what I get to enjoy everyday. I'm a fan. (And Katie, you're still a blender, right?)AmyPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05767382106459373606noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2495759592379675191.post-63136728990301360382009-02-26T19:38:00.000-08:002009-07-30T17:55:32.336-07:00ADD ramblings, wrestlings and thoughtsIf I could give you a picture of the circus currently going on in my head, you would probably need to envision a raging bull that had just consumed 24 Mountain Dews, saw a red flag and found himself boxed in a small cage constraining his movements to only a mere twitch. Restless might describe my current state, but alas, the bull mental picture was a much more exciting venture with words. Ah, ADD.<br />My mind is inundated with thoughts, questions, wrestling of the soul, running commentaries, dreams and the like. I'm bombarded with the desire to race ahead in life. I don't want it to be now anymore. Because now is waiting. Now is twiddling my thumbs. Now is obsessively checking my email to see if maybe I'll get one that makes a difference. Now is the anticipation of great moments, hard times, and yet experiencing none of the above with no guarantee as to the great moments or hard times actually playing themselves out. Now is risky. Now could turn any direction at any given moment, but is currently not turning at all. Now is still. (Yep, definitely just checked my email for one of those life-changing messages that never seem to come. I am ridiculous.)<br />So where am I going with this? Right now - no where, and quite quickly, might I add.<br />Since I find myself in a losing battle of ADD sucking my brain dry and me handing myself over to it on a sliver platter, I will write as an ADD person. Here are some of my thoughts:<br /><br />Sometimes, life sucks. I mean, it doesn't and yet it does all at the same time. Right now I'm watching as some good friends have been dealt a hefty blow in life. My heart aches for them. I wish there were something I could do, but there honestly isn't...except listening and praying. And it's hard because I feel like it's nothing, and yet, part of me knows it's got to be everything. I just keep coming to God, begging Him for some sort of way to change things for them, to let me walk through it so they don't have to, to just have some word or some act that would just make it better. And I find I've got a whole bunch of nothing. Nothing except talking to Him. And though I don't totally get it and it frustrates me and I'm dumbfounded by the idea, I think that's everything.<br />In the past few days as I've poured out my everything to Jesus, my frustrations for my friends, my anger that this could happen to such precious people and my mental exhaustion over the idea that all I can do is pray, I keep coming to this thought: If I could really see the world for what it is, if I really saw things the way they are - the way God sees them, I might realize that is everything. Prayer is everything. It is huge. That dialogue with God mixed with the faith of a mustard seed supposedly has a track record of being able to move mountains. (Which I will SOOOOO admit I don't fully understand) And so I cling and pray and wrestle and come back humbled to think that one day I may get the chance to see how much prayer actually does. And how little I did it. So here's to mystically somehow having an incredible thing to offer my friends that doesn't feel like much, but I guess does untold things... If only I could see how huge - maybe God will start showing me. And maybe in a lot of ways He already has... (Sorry, you are now just following the course of my thought process. I am no longer trying to form witty explanations and put-together stories)<br /><br />Other thoughts...God has seriously amazed me. A few years ago, I was a voice major at Indiana University. I had studied voice for 7 years or so. (Shout out to the Youth Performing Arts School in Louisville, KY) It had been my life. I had dreams of continuing in performing and all sorts of crazy stuff. And then God asked me to give it up and let Him bring it back when it was time. Not like never sing - not even to your kids or anything, but more of a don't study it in school, don't pursue opportunities to sing, just let it go for now. And through tears and a lack of trust combined with a lot of trust - I did. And during that time, Jesus taught me a lot. A lot about the god I had made it, the pride I had with it, the constant analyzing I did to it. I also had the privilege of taking amazing classes at Wheaton College about ministry and working with youth and counseling and such. (Even though Wheaton was an incredibly hard place for me to be) Through those years I have worked with some of the MOST AMAZING youth that ever were - hands down. I have had the privilege of hearing their stories and walking through life with them, even if it was for a short period of time. I spent my time in coffee shops and restaurants with the UNBELIEVABLE chance to hear their stories and talk with them about Jesus. I would not trade ANY of those moments for the world. And I still remember Starbucks dates, basement convos, Chili's dinners and the like and coming home in awe of the fact that I got to listen to them and pray and care. And now, though I still get to do some of that, be it over Skype or amidst piles of toys with homemade chai lattes, I think God may be bringing this part back. But new and better and sacred-like. I've decided (though in true Amy form, I go back and forth wondering how on earth I can actually make this a reality to then chasing after it full force to doubting again to dreaming of every little detail...well, you get the point. Oooh, look at me prefacing before I ever say anything AGAIN!) that I'm going to put together a recital/concerty type thing of sorts. (Like the non-committal Amy lingo there? Quality.) I'm excited. Nervous. Terrifed. And electrified. But in the midst of it all, I'm blown away that God remembered. He didn't forget me. And He's made it so much better than it was before. And how amazing is it that He'd let me make music? I get to create. I'm so excited I seriously could wet my pants. And for those of you who know me, you realize it won't be a normal recital at all. I have all sorts of crazy ideas floating around. I'm just hoping I won't let it stay floating like I usually do in all my ADD procrastinating glory, but that this time, I chase it down. I have a feeling that the ADD people in attendance that night will totally love it and the non-ADD portion of the audience will have mental whiplash... Oh well.<br />But really quickly, how amazing is it that God loves me enough not to forget? It makes me tear up. He would let me do this? I'm still in awe.<br />Which brings me to another thought - I've been reading one of the books of the Bible called Exodus. And I've been reading the whole part where God brings the people out of Egypt and such and when He starts the whole deal and comes to Moses, God tells him that He has SEEN their pain and HEARD their cries. That makes me cry. He doesn't just stay removed. He's all over it. He's been there with them. Kinda cool. <br /><br />More thoughts:<br />My kids rock<br />My husband is really neat.<br />Jesus has given me some amazing friends. Friends I can actually share all of me with and they don't run away screaming. That's beyond cool.<br />I am in love with photography and I desperately want to capture amazing moments. And I'm searching out how... If you see my kids walking around with a strange look in their eyes it's probably from overexposure to the flash on my new camera.<br />I am a blessed lady to have a husband that can handle the ADD madness and he still believes in me. He still pushes me to chase dreams... And for some reasons he takes all of my random dreams and ideas on how to change the world and what to pursue next and he actually believes in me and helps make it happen. I'm more blessed than I even know.<br />I've got a real writing piece brewing in my mind about Hannah's latest poop issues and what God's been showing me through it about my own sin. Oh yeah...<br />We have a really cool church and if anyone reading this lives around the Chicago area and wants to come - we'd love it. It's not perfect, but it's really neat. Quality peeps.<br />I think about all the kids I know who are in college now ALL the time. (And the middle and high schoolers from Life Church and Campus Lifers and badminton girls) Yep, if you're one of them, I probably think about you and pray for you a lot. And possibly facebook stalk you...awkward moment. I don't do a good enough job of letting you all know though. But I'm beyond grateful for every one of you.<br />I am SOOOOOOOOOOOO glad that an amazing lady, Kelly Schmidt was born today. Don't know what I'd do without her. My house feels really empty with her at Azusa, but my heart is seriously full because of her in our lives.<br /><br />Alright, I'm gonna go feed a kid. And maybe give up on the compulsive checking of my email and basic search for something that could possibly change my life right now. Maybe I'll go embrace now. Maybe I'll go enjoy the fact that I have this moment. Maybe I'll go open my soul up to God and just put all of this before Him and let Him sort through the mess and the pieces and the broken parts. He's got mad skills in that area - I've seen it. Really interesting that I still choose to avoid it sometimes...<br />Thanks for reading. Hope you enjoyed a truly ADD post.AmyPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05767382106459373606noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2495759592379675191.post-71702843249813513482008-12-09T18:49:00.000-08:002009-07-30T17:57:33.222-07:00A Letter to My Little LadyDear Sweet Hannah,<br /><br />Hey, lady. In a matter of minutes at the mall of all places you taught me more about how to live life than years of studying could ever do. And I wanted to say thank you.<br />Thank you for Tuesday. I sat there on the cushy bench looking to just let you have a few moments to run free; completely oblivious to the divine moment I was about to encounter as I observed you, my teacher for the day. Surrounding us were kids climbing through the crazy jungle gym of levels in the mall, parents zoning out from the Christmas shopping overload... And there you were. My beautiful Hannah - full of joy and life and an unbeatable level of exuberance in the midst of many other people in many different moods. But you - you didn't have a care in the world. You were too busy just soaking up every minute of the jungle gym. Your smile grew and your eyes danced as you took in your surroundings, exploring new areas and racing the carpeted levels at top speed in your simple, yet tried and true way of running from one side to the other in a straight line with a soundtrack of giggles and shouts as your feet propelled you back and forth... Your mommy wouldn't have approached the situation the same way. She probably would have been too concerned with where she was and what other people thought about it - was it high enough? did she look silly sitting there? was she climbing the right way? But not you. You couldn't have been happier in your sprinting venture.<br />As I kept watching you I noticed something else, Little Miss, you knew your limits. You weren't big enough and coordinated enough to get up to the highest levels...but it didn't phase you for even a moment. You loved where you were, embracing every moment with a load of "tee-hees" and lots of "Hey Mommy! Did you SEE that?" And as I watched you I realized that your mommy probably would have been frustrated with where she was and she would have wanted to be able to do more. She might have wondered if other people noticed her shortcomings and might have become paralyzed by fear to try anything new. She might have even sat in the corner and sulked at her misfortune - her inability to do what so many others were able to do. She would have missed out on the pure joy that overcame your precious little self, happy as could be- right where you were.<br />After a few more minutes, Little Miss, I was in awe: talk about love your neighbor. You weren't afraid to say hi to anyone. And you were the first one to tell them "Great job..." when they climbed up. Even if you couldn't do all that they were doing, you were there encouraging them - even if most of them ignored you completely. You didn't do it to get anything in return - you just genuinely cared and gave your encouragement freely. If your mommy were honest, she might have only encouraged the seemingly most important people. She might have gotten discouraged when no one seemed to care about the cheers she gave out and just given up on sharing them altogether.<br />But you - you were thrilled for the little girl nobody else noticed who was terrified of climbing up there with you - even though she was probably twice your age. You didn't laugh at her, think less of her or even giggle to yourself at her struggles - instead you cheered her on and jumped with an incredibly authentic enthusiasm (seeing as it was a full body jump and cheer) when she finally made it up. And you listened - I mean really listened to the annoying kid that everyone else tried to avoid. And you weren't trying to conjure up feelings of care - compassion for him just oozed out of you. You realized that he had a lot to say, even if he didn't necessarily know when to take a break from saying all of it. <br />Your mommy might have been too busy thinking about her own climbing dreams and pursuits or what everyone else thought of her to notice the little girl, and she might have thought she was too busy with her own endeavors to listen to the little boy that seemed to have diarrhea of the mouth. <br />And Little Miss, it was amazing to watch you take in the wonder of it all - the people, just being there, the fact that you could crawl and climb and jump. (and do sprint suicides back and forth on the carpeted levels) I held back tears as I watched you stop everything (including your calisthenic work) to pause, your eyes taking in everything around you and though you didn't use words it seemed like you couldn't help but worship God by just resting and enjoying everything around you - all the joy and greatness of that moment. Your mommy probably would have been too busy or too focused on the next thing to really stop and thank God. But not you.<br />So thank you. Thank you, Hannah for teaching me who I really am and showing me who I really want to be. I want to be more like you. Because in you I see so much more freedom, so much more joy, so much more love - so much more of God. And I want that. Thank you for teaching me. And not with words or scolding - just with how you live your little life. I hope I can teach like that, too, Hannah. <br />And know this, sweetheart, not only am I thankful, I am also committed to changing because I want to be the best mommy I can be for you. And that's a mom who loves her neighbor as herself no matter who they are, how inept they seem or how long they want to talk. That's a mommy that takes on the joys and hard times of the people around her. That's a mommy who notices the outcast - a mommy who notices the overlooked and does something about it. And I want you to have a mommy that doesn't get frustrated with where she is in life, but embraces all the greatness of where that is instead of finding every flaw with it and becoming jealous of the others around her. And I want you to have a mommy that just has to stop and say thank you to God for everything around her - perfect and imperfect.<br />Every day with you is an unbelievable privilege. Sometimes I can't comprehend why God would be so amazing as to make you my daughter. And today I want to tell you thank you. I love you. And I plan on asking God for help so I become that mommy. Thank you for teaching me, Little Miss. And even though I just said it - I love you. I just don't know that I'll ever be able to say it enough times that it really conveys how deeply I mean it.AmyPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05767382106459373606noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2495759592379675191.post-16819067205089974112008-12-01T21:53:00.000-08:002009-07-30T17:56:48.640-07:00Insert Witty Title Here (while I sleep)And then there were four. In some amazingly miraculous way, I went in to the hospital - just Ted and me - and we came out with a whole new person. (And yes, this equals four when you factor in our incredibly crazy daughter) I still can't really believe it. In a moment, he entered the world - a living, breathing, sometimes crying little person. It's still nutty to me. <br />I would love to write about all the things I've been processing, all the battles I've been...well battling on how to follow God and be a mom of 2, on not becoming soft and everything else, but sleep tends to be important when you are outnumbered by small people in your home. So I'll postpone all that soul-searching for another day. However, I did want to share a little something this little man has already taught me.<br />Night 2 of his little life the nurses brought him to me so that he could eat. (tends to be important I guess...) I held him close and tried to get him started, but it just wasn't working out between the two of us. And this precious, mild-mannered baby scrunched up his face in such a way that he looked like a pit-bull and he let out horrendous squeals that indicated he seriously thought his 2-day old life was in jeopardy. I put him up to my shoulder, held him tightly and I whispered to him - "There is NO way I'm not going to feed you. I promise I will take care of you. I could never hurt you." In that moment, tears started to run down my face. Maybe sleep depravation and a host of crazy hormones charging through my body started the tears, but it broke my heart to see him struggle and wonder if he would make it when I was there to help him, offering him exactly what he needed if he would only calm down and trust me and let me help him...<br />And then it hit me. I am my son. (For those of you not tracking with me, let me explain) I do that exact same thing to God all the time. I fight Him and push back and think that He's going to basically let me drown in my problems. And yet, all the while, He's there, trying to help me, waiting for me to settle down so that He actually can work with me and give me exactly what I need. At that point, tears started to come more freely. For the first time, I had an idea of God's pain - watching us squirm and cry and wiggle and become more and more upset, while He's there never once letting go.<br />There's so much more I would love to say and I'd love to do it more eloquently, but whether it's the smallness of my own mind or simply the inability to articulate when you are in the midst of crazy life change, I can't seem to put it together. So I think I'll go take care of my little guy and remember that if a messed up mommy like me would never let my child's needs go unmet, how much greater lengths will God go to take care of us... Maybe it's time for me to stop squirming.AmyPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05767382106459373606noreply@blogger.com0