"Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me." Psalm 23

This Psalm has been running through my mind as I think of the Haitian people today. My friends, I pray for your comfort...for God's mercy on those who are suffering...for strength and faith.

Fall Family Session 3

"The righteous man leads a blameless life; blessed are his children after him." Proverbs 20:7

This photo shoot started out comfortably, but as the sun continued to set, it became chilly. It made me smile to see this family snuggle up together in between shots to warm up! Everyone cooperated so well and we really picked up some of those vivid colors in the changing trees. I so enjoy every minute I spend with this family. They are so beautiful inside and out!

Fall Family Session 2

"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again--rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, and with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Phillipians 4:4-9

I've gotten to know this family much better over the last two years and the photos below reflect several of their wonderful qualities...they are so colorful, full of joy and movement. They are confident and peaceful and quick to smile and laugh. Their love for each other is so evident!

Fall Family Session 1

"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful." Colossians 3:15

This fall, I photographed two brothers and their families. I've known these families for some time now, and it seems like just yesterday these two couples were newlyweds. In fact, one couple had their wedding photos taken in this very same park.

Amazing what can happen in 10+ years! Their children are so sweet and so beautiful. What wonderful blessings--all 5 of them!

Sports Photography

"But He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power if made perfect in weakness.' Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me." 2 Corinthians 12:9

Back in early September, I had the opportunity to dabble into some sports photography. I got on the field at my brother-in-law's team's football game. He's the head coach at Joliet Township. It was an amazing experience. The sounds, the colors...even the smell of the grass. It was thrilling to my senses.

I gained a better appreciation for my brother-in-law's talents as a coach...for his determination and leadership. I was also impressed with the character of many of the young men on his team.

Blume-Fleming Wedding Photos

I have so many photos to share from this beautiful wedding. It's just taking time to get through them all. But, I thought I'd start sharing a few of my favs. (I'm hoping Blogger doesn't mess up the sharpness of these images...)

This one is just amazing--the petals in the air, the joy on their faces...

Yaaaaaay, 5!

Cliff to Rudy "Did you call your sister a baby?" "No. I called her a chicken baby."

When I was younger, I loved to watch episodes of The Cosby Show! They were so real, so fun... My favorite was Mr. Huxtable and my second favorite was Rudy because she was closest to my age and she was super cool. There was one episode featuring Rudy that I remember. Rudy's older siblings were getting to do lots of big-kid stuff and Rudy felt left out. She eventually retreated to a hideout in her room. No one seemed to notice she was gone...except Mrs. H, who found her there. She crawled into the fort with Rudy and Rudy finally had a chance to open up. She had just had a birthday--she was 5. But, she thought 5 stunk. Mrs. H started to point out all the wonderful things that came with 5. All the things she could or would do that year that she couldn't have done when she was 4. In time, Rudy began to feel like maybe 5 wasn't so bad after all. It went something like this:

"Well, Rudy, now that you're 5 you can ride your bike with no training wheels!"

"Yay, 5!"

"And, now that you're 5, you can write your whole name and tie your shoes!"

"Yay, 5!"

"Rudy, this year you will go to Kindergarten!"

"Yay, 5!!!"

It was a wonderful episode. I've been thinking about it lately as my Fantastic Five year old has been doing terrific things. Like going to Kindergarten! She started this week...