Raindrops on roses (AKA a few of my favorite things)

Being the Almond Joy fan that I am, when I saw a commercial for this coffee creamer I knew I had to find some! 

Now, if you know me you might be surprised by that because I never drink coffee, but I say why let a little detail like that keep me from enjoying a wonderful thing?

And I knew before even trying it that it would be great in hot chocolate!

Yep I was right.

I'm also pretty stoked about my new boots.  They almost have me wishing for snow and cold weather.

But it's a BEAUTIFUL sunny day today so I'm gonna get out there and enjoy it while it lasts! 
Oh, one more thing I'm excited about... like, WAY excited!!...This morning I got up at 5AM to do some Black Friday shopping - on-line.  No, I don't ever do that craziness that is Black Friday in the stores, but I bought myself a spot in a photography workshop conducted by a couple of my favorite photographers, Justin & Mary (http://www.justinmarantz.com/).  It's called Walk Through a Wedding and takes place next February in CT.  I just LOVE Justin & Mary's work, and LOVE the amazing nice people that they are.  I can't wait!
You know, I blog-stalk several photographers on a regular basis.  I've found which ones are willing to share their knowledge and experience and I've found 4 or 5 whose work I really admire. I frequently leave comments when I see an image that I just love, or when something they've written moves me.  But here's what made me want to set my alarm for 5AM, spend a good chunk of money, and travel all the way from Indiana to Connecticut in February for their workshop:  Mary Marantz is the only professional photographer who has taken the time to look at MY blog and comment on MY photographs!  I was SO stoked when I saw her comments on a couple of my posts.  It gave me such a boost to keep taking photographs, keep learning and keep improving.  Yep, that girl knows how to win friends!  Justin & Mary, I can't wait to meet you guys in person and spend a couple days with you!!

Little Lucy is SO stinkin cute!

Following Lucy around the playground with my camera was a challenge but so much fun at the same time.  And she is just so cute, so the real challenge was trying to narrow down my favorites and decide what to post on the blog.  It seems that every time I look at these images I have a new favorite.  Lucy is very expressive, and it's fun to capture the different sides of her personality.  Enjoy!

She may have been shy at one point...but then she busted out some moves.

  Pretty sweet, wouldn't you agree?

Colors of Fall

The colorful leaves that seem to glow, the rosy evening light, the crisp air and wonderful smell of fall - it all goes by so quickly.  You really have to take time to savor it.  I just have to share some photos I've taken over the last few days.

Emily - sneak peek

I'm a little backed up with editing right now, but just couldn't wait to post this image of Emily. 
Really Emily?!? Who looks this beautiful with NO editing?  You, of course.  A lot more favorites coming soon.   Love you girl!

Lucy - sneak peek

Oh man, look at those beautiful eyes!  I have so many favorites of little Lucy but I think this is my number 1.

More to come later!

Megan and Hales - they take care of each other

Just before exchanging rings, Hales told everyone in attendance that in some ways it felt like he and Megan were already married.  Because they take care of each other.

Megan and Hales, thank you for allowing me to document the beginning of your life together.  I wish you God's blessings on your marriage.

The kids

Just practicing focus with my very handsome boy Alfred.  Normally he doesn't sit still for photos but a bird caught his attention.  BTW, in case you read the last Mission of the Month post, I'm much happier with the focus of my images since I started using the pinpoint focus mode.

Of course, I have to give some face time to my girl Jorga.  She's kinda sensitive about getting enough attention.