This was fun

and I am so glad these had turned out well. Just a few from the first ever wedding I shot.

Trash The Dress

If anyone of the friends and family that read my blog wants to participate in a free photoshoot called Trash the Dress, let me know.

It involves a girl, in a wedding dress, to volunteer to go anywhere I say so we can take very creative, perhaps in the water or in the dirt, bridal portraits. It doesn't have to be your wedding dress. Perhaps something that looks like it or one you come upon somewhere. The volunteer will receive a few prints, also.

They will be conservative shots, but creative. Go here for some examples. Caution, some of these are definitely not my style. I am going for innocence and fun, perhaps mysterious, too. Also, even if you have been married for awhile or are single, this would be an opportunity for you to have some fun and provide me with a wonderful portfolio building opportunity!

It wasn't at all very busy

if you look at it from an ant's point of view! The carnival last night was just about the craziest thing I have ever seen. I don't know, really, if the kiddos enjoyed it, but I know I honestly did not. I was wiped out, in a lot of pain, stressed, down, and just had it....as soon as we walked in. I had NO clue it was going to be so busy. I feel so terribly bad bringing kids into the carnival when it was like that. We didn't even get to play games. They really need to change something next year. Rich said it wasn't like that for him and Ella last year..

On the positive side, the kids had each other, a total of 5 friends, and Tifany was there to help A LOT! They got tatoos, cotton candy, food, and pony rides. There was a lot more, but I had no idea the lines were so long and I didn't follow where everything was. I am wondering if I can write a very nice letter about changing how they do this. Outside held plenty of room for games..I so wish someone had put some out there.

Well, I pray the kids have positive reviews this morning. Philip cried and whined the whole time in the building (I can tell he doesn't like crowds, now). He just snuggled his head in my neck. Oh, except when he ate pizza!

Adventure and curiosity

LTTS, My sweet Ella girl, and teach, Philip, too.

Tonight is your carnival! Your friends are coming, and you are going to have such a wonderful time riding ponies, eating cotton candy, and playing many games.

This picture of you is from a year or so ago. In grandpa's backyard, with his binoculars, of course. You love playing with those. You are going to be into adventure, for sure. Actually, both you and Buddy are outdoor kids. I wish I could keep up with you, though. Maybe someday, but for now, thank you for "mostly" understanding mommy's limitations.

You spent so much time with your daddy yesterday outside after he worked. He loves and treasures you both....you are so blessed. And he even more.

We always pray for you!

Love, your mommy.

A heart breaker for sure...

These photos are of my friend, Alysha's, baby boy, Conner. He is a cutie. Alysha is the one who told me of the book signing, so with that thought in mind, I have decided to post some pics here of her pride and joy, with permission, of course. It is a complete HONOR to take photographs of children, in my opinion. Especially babies. I would honestly do this all the time for free..but I have learned it makes photographers who are doing this as a living a little upset. I suppose I will just enjoy this part time job and still continue it as mostly a ministry. I love how God has brought opportunities to me like this one.

I usually don't ramble

but I may tonight.

These are things, simple thoughts most of them, sticking in my mind, reminding me to be thankful everyday.

I feel so loved...someone from church is checking up on me every morning now consistently.

I had the sweetest, warmest greeting/smile from my friend Jennifer on Sunday...and I really appreciated that.

I met Karen Kingsbury, and was really inspired by her discussion before she autographed books.

I found three ties at Pennys for a total of under $5.00. Retail over $90!

My dad does not think my grandpa Duvall will last much longer...

My mom told me today how much my grandma Duvall would love seeing these kids today.

Philip turns two tomorrow.

Rich got a very nice raise today.

I still remember the two unexpected and anonymous gifts we received this past year. We were very tight with the budget due to some medical circumstances, and without those anonymous gifts, I don't know how we'd have gotten our needs totally met.

God has truly blessed us lately, so that in turn we have tried to give a little more back.

I have learned now to take each day one at a time. I don't know what to expect, and I suppose, not many people do either. I just pray that we can hold on to our faith with all our hearts and spur each other on.

I have been encouraged so much lately, that I hope I can do the same.

An Invitation

Midday, I received a phone call from a friend. She told me that Karen Kingsbury will be at Border's tonight. Now, I figured that she would want to go, because she is such an avid fan of this author, and if she didn't she'd kick herself later. So, I said, do want someone to go with you? She said sure!

So, that was an invitation for, hopefully, a non stressful book signing experience tonight.

We're Free We're Free!!!

Thanks to two friends, we are without our children tonight. It is a hard thing to do, but every parent needs to have nights to themselves.

Ella is staying overnight at Alex's, and Philip is with Miss Tifany. I am very happy that they are going to have wonderful times at their respective homes. I am very thankful, too, that these wonderful moms are taking the responsibility of them for another night, besides having their own children.

Sometime, I hope to return the favor!

With part of our afternoon, after I did some grocery shopping ALONE, we went to a fairly new cafe here in town. We enjoyed our Italian-style sit down dinner, and my favorite, a lemon poppyseed muffin.

I learned during our date that Rich noticed, and then told me, I have never made meatloaf once during our 5 years of marriage.

He leaned forward to ask me, "Do you like meatloaf?" I hesitated because I didn't want to offend him in case he liked it, but then I outright said, "I hate it!"

I felt so much better being able to express that feeling. Then, I discovered he didn't care for it either. We are relieved that I will never make it and he will never have to ask me to make it.

A few new photos

This morning I was reminded

This morning I was reminded of why I have always loved hymns so much. They speak of God's goodness, love, and so many other attributes. Even if they are not speaking directly TO Him, they are wonderful testimonies of who He really is. And that's okay..to sing these indoctrinated songs, because we learn about the Lord. People who sing them that may not know much about God will see glimpses of why they should. There are powerful stories behind so many of the hymns, as well. I know that for sure (I have a book that describes dozens of these stories, in every detail).

The song I opened up to directly, with no real looking, just the first thing that I saw, was "Jesus Calls Us O'er the Tumult." Now, we've song this at church, but it never really struck me until this morning.

Jesus calls us o'er the tumult of our life's wild, restless sea; Day by day I hear Him saying, "Christian, come and follow me."

As, of old, disciples heard it by the Galilean lake, Turned from home and work and leisrue, leaving all for His dear sake.

In our joys and in our sorrows, days of toil and hours of ease, still He calls in cares and pleasures, "Christian, love me more than these."

Jesus calls us: by Thy mercies, Savior, may we hear Thy call, give our hearts to Thine obedience, serve and love Thee best of all.

I just love those words...I think God would delight when we sing OF Him, because His people are ministered to. But, we should never cease to use song to glorify his name by speaking to him personally through choruses. These two go hand in hand...and I am blessed to be in a church that values both genres of hymns and choruses. I could not go without either one.

I forgot to mention that this post is some of my response to the issue brought up here. For those who don't know, Sam is someone my brother grew up with at our first church we ever went to. Well, I grew up with Sam too and as he mentioned, it is nice to reconnect with people through this medium. He brings up "hot" topics in the Christian faith, and I really like that about his blogging. If it hadn't been for Kimmy, I wouldn't have started this. She has helped me get back to writing, and I so appreciate it! I never could keep a diary, but I can do this!

What was Noteworthy Today

I was enjoying a nice evening serenade from Philip on the piano for about ten minutes until his sister decided just then to share the stuffed moose with him that he had wanted 20 minutes earlier. Philip's delightful one note at a time song became two paws and a head at a time. Not actually Mozart anymore. I started laughing so hard because as SOON as Ella gave him the stuffed animal he started banging the poor thing on the piano keys. We all began to laugh, and Philip kept it up for awhile.

Soon after this, Ella decided I was a nest and sat on me, with her newest stuffed doggy under her. Where do kids get these ideas? I am so glad she has this kind of imagination, though.

For me, the icing on the cake for the day (I am trying to stay positive SOMEHOW these days...when I really want to let out frustration and discouragment) was when Rich put the milk away in the fridge. Without the cap on.

Now, this is something I"D do..not him. Not ever.

But, I didn't doooo it! HA! I did put the cap back on though...and promptly told him what he did wrong :-)

The Preacher and Musician

In two Sundays, my dad and my husband are participating in the Civil War reinactment that will be at Beaver Creek State Park. My dad was asked to be the preacher, and he, in turn, asked Rich to play the harmonica for music during the church service. I can't wait to see what costumes they put together.

Rich has been listening to a lot of music from that era. He has before, but he is concentrating hard on the feel of the songs.

I think this is a great opportunity...but, I am unsure if I'll go with the kids. I am tempted just to attend our own church so I have a place to drop kids off and won't have to run around the park chasing after two wild ones...

Well, they aren't wild, really. Miss Meledy told me today that Ella always listens and is so well behaved. I am so happy to hear about that!

I forgot to mention that Friday night, after 8 o'clock (which is really beyond the kids' betimes but that day was just weird anyways), I took the kids outside as a quick thought, while we were waiting for Rich to come back from his walk and for the pizza to cook (yes, we had that late of a meal).

So, as we were walking around the house, I noticed the lights were on in several rooms of the school. Thinking that just MAYBE we may see Miss M. there, we ventured over to the school.

In my slippers.

But, it was worth the trip, even forgetting I had slippers on. Ella got to see her teacher, Philip got to flirt, and mommy got to have a real nice conversation. Ella's teacher deals with vertigo, and migraines. So, we both really empathized with each other not able to completely "operate" on certain days. Miss M. has noticeably miss days of school. She is always missed. I hope and pray she will soon find the missing link in what she deals with and make it better.

I remember that we talked outside because of the nice, fair weather. How I WISH that this weather would make a turn for the better. It just adds to my difficulty with what I am dealing with lately. But, at least Philip had a few fun minutes to play in the puddles.

Webkinz

We purchased one early this morning. That was a miracle..they are sold out everywhere. We got a little doggie and named her Heidi. Ella has yet to play with it's virtual house, but mommy tried it out...she's a bit confused but was having fun and hopes that Ella can help HER out to make sure Heidi is fed, healthy, talked too, and comfy in her room.

To make the point a little stronger...I really have no clue how to do this thing, but it is fun...just a tad confusing! I am sure once we get the hang of it (and start winning kinzcash for food and more home accessories) we'll have tons of fun!

Timing..

A mother of four from our church asked to take our two children home with her after church..directly home. We were stunned but accepted the offer. So, the kids went to the Mills farm and had an entire afternoon playing outside and both rode horses. Rich exercised during that time, and I slept, trying to recover from Saturday. My recovery did not go so well Sunday, as I could hardly make it through our small group later that night. Gracious as she is, the hostess, Gail Patrick, suggested Rich and I go for a walk around the block, so we did. I probably shouldn't have gone to the small group in the first place, because I was so tired and couldn't think...the game they played first off did not go over well with me. For some reason, I cannot deal with guessing games, or trying to figure out a name or fact. It completely stresses me out. BUT, give me a scrabble board, and there I go. I love that, and cards. Anyways, I really couldn't deal with the pressure, because I could not think, and I just fell apart. Luckily the sunglasses were on and I was able to hide out somewhere for a few minutes to pull myself together. Then, I went back out, and snuggled Rich on the porch couch where everyone was chatting and eating. That was then, whew, an escape route came to be via a walk. That truly helped.

I really like our small group..we are the youngest couple there, and that is actually a good thing. It's a blessing to learn from other couples' experiences.

Backtracking to Saturday, the wedding went wonderfully. I really enjoyed the laid back, behing the house, in your own backyard, casual wedding. It was great. The couple was fun to photograph. I am very pleased with the results from my camera, too.

Rich drove me ( a huge stress relief) and took the kids to a nearby playground while I photographed the wedding. We got to go to Chipotle, too, after all. There, Ella made about 3 trips to the potty. The second one people noticed because she was out of her chair and running so fast to the back of the place (I didn't know she was gone from our table until she was in the back hallway), and saying pee the potty pee the potty. I couldn't help but laugh because other people were laughing too. Kids...they provide some interesting entertainment.

This morning we were able to take Ella's first ever disposable camera to the photo lab. She took her own pics on her birthday. Then, we picked up stuff for a little picnic and went to the Firestone Park for a little while. The kids really enjoyed themselves, and made a new friend. It has been such a pleasant day..I hope it continues.

If you are a Lost fan...

what would you do if you were watching the Gospel of John, recently made and pretty good, as a DVD and Jesus was played by Desmond.

(pause....)

Exactly.

I think everyone else in Sunday School that I was being rude, but I couldn't help my laughing. I finally got it under control and got into the lesson, but I DO NOT do good with these actors transitioning like this!

This just always makes me laugh

and I don't know if some of you read this story from an incredible author.

Look To The Sky

I have changed my blog name from Close To Home to Look To The Sky for two reasons...

1. It's probably not good to have my photography name my personal/friend/family blogsite name.

2. A lot has gone on in the past few days, and LTTS reminds me of WHOM has helped me get past a very tough time.

Yesterday, Friday, was on of the best and more joyous days I have had in a very long time. I had a mental state of emergency this week, that required immediate medical attention, and help from my husband and parents. I am very thankful for the prayers from friends and family, because I KNOW that is what made the difference for me BEFORE the medication kicked in. Really, the medication change would not be kicking in until probably tomorrow, but I have so much improvement in my thinking at this time.

Thursday, Rich called off thirty minutes before he had to go in so he could take care of me and the kids. He was such a servant.

Friday, since I could not be alone, my dad called off and picked up the kids and I for the day. First, we went to a trail that was beside a train track. The kids loved it, and even more when the "choo choo" went past.

Then, so I would not disappoint Ella on her 4th birthday (which was Friday), he drove us up to the mall so she could "Build A Bear." My friend Katie, and her baby, Autumn, met Ella and I in the mall and Ella created her perfect Hello Kitty, skates and all. She had a blast.

Then, my dad took the kids home and left me up at the mall for girl time with my friend. Katie had offered to take me home, bless her heart, so that's what she did after a couple hours of just walking around. She could tell there was a difference in my voice, and I was so happy to hear that.

Today, Rich is driving me, with the kids, to the wedding I need to photograph, which is about an hour away, past Niles. While I am photographing the wedding, which is a very small one, no pressure, he'll take the kids to a park. Then, come get me, and then we'll eat out. I hope Chipotle..but maybe not..I don't think the kids would be too wild about that. We may have to go to 2 places to get food for the four of us.

I have more to say but for now, here are some pictures from the trail!

Almost Four Party

Saturday was Ella's birthday party. We had about 8 little girls..friends from school, from church, a cousin, and a former neighbor. Oh, and their mom, too. All so sweet, all so endearing in their own special way. They played hair, nails, and makeup. That was the theme, and wow, did they just eat all that up! My strawberry swirl cake turned out good, double layered even. And, Ella enjoyed being with her friends, and, of course, opening up her gifts. I think her favorite is the Fur Real Tiger she received from Grandpa and Grandma with Bear and Cheyenne (we identify grandparents by the name/s of their pet/s HA!). We had a mini celebration for Philip following Ella's party. Uncle Bill, Aunt Lisa, and Abby were up for the day, and the great grandparents were there too, so it was good timing for just a family celebration for Philip (his birthday is May 2nd, and he'll be TWO!!!!).

Here are a few pics, though I did not get many, nor did I get many good ones. It was tough doing everything. I was blessed to have my mom "host" the party at her house though! Thank you mom and dad!

I am still recuperating from that day. I feel as if I am in a desert, really. I don't feel well at all and am just plugging away. Fibro does that to you..wipe you out after certain events. I am praying for a healing soon, especially for the next several days.

Some serious, sappy stuff

beforebed

My husband and son now like to view this as a wonderful evening , before bed, ritual. I hope you don't tear up as much as I do!

How Wonderful is THIS?!?!?!?!

My brother just emailed me something great! A link to well...creating a book about your blog, photos, anything!!!! Go figure! Can't wait to try it! I hope our tax return comes soon!

GO HERE: BLURB

Easter Day

The kids loved their Easter basket hunting at home, and the special message at church. As well as the famous Easter Egg hunt for all the Sunday School children. My parents had baskets for Ella and Philip right after church, and from there we went to Rich's mom and dad's for dinner with family. It was a busy and long day, of course.

The music at church was definitely spirit led and filled. It was a blessing to many.

The past few nights I have finally been able to fall asleep and stay sleep for the most part. I am so glad about that. It makes everything more difficult when you are more weary than usual.

I am reading a book from a free box at church..about Islam. I am always interested reading things like this, from a Christian author's perspective, of course. Helps me stay somewhat intellectual!

This coming Saturday is Ella's 4th birthday party. I have lots to do, and I am praying for a nice turnout for her. What a fun time they'll have!

The eyes have it

A Love for Tea

Monday, at the park and muddy!

Let's Go Fly A Kite

It was a perfect day to fly Ella's new Hello Kitty kite. We had a blast. I was so impressed with her ability to do this. And, I had so much fun! Maybe more fun than her!