Wow, really has been a long time since I’ve blogged. I know my blog is still working if nothing else because I get daily spam messages from the “bots” trying to get me to approve comments so that you can see and click on wonderful links that will wreak havoc on your computer. So irritating. Does anyone really ever click on those silly things? Ha!

So, I’ll share one of my favorite personal photos of one of my fur-babies. Simply because I haven’t shared anything in a long time!

Twins! Whew I’m tired! These FIVE day old little angels are so precious. If you could only see the out-takes from today’s session! You have no idea what we went through just to get these two images! Double the fun and preparation!

Here’s a sneak peek of Lainey’s Senior Session today. Enjoy!

One of the highlights of my day is going to the mailbox and checking out what surprise awaits me. Most days there’s something worth reading. From Thanksgiving to Christmas, I enjoy daily mail surprises that bring smiles and warmth to my heart. I read the year in review from friends and loved ones. I share their joys and sometimes their sorrows. And I view their family photos with great delight.  I {cherish} each one I receive. I look at them over and over again. Even though I failed to get my cards out this year, I do sincerely appreciate the time and thought that each person who sent us a card put into their efforts. I figure y’all don’t want Christmas cards of our children, ahem, I mean dogs but I will try to get some out next year anyway!

During this season, I hardly have time to do anything more than edit all the wonderful images taken of some wonderful clients from October to December. That brings me to the reason for this post. The image I’m about to share is my favorite one taken this season. If you’ve been following my photography growth, you’ll recognize this family. They have been with me from the very beginning, supporting me creatively from the moment this little man was growing in J’s belly. I’ve photographed little K multiple times over the last year – from newborn to his recent first birthday. He’s a serious little boy. It’s been a challenge to get him to smile. It’s a rare occasion to capture it. But on this day in late November, with the help of his Grandmother & her faithful companion Motley, behind me making silly sounds — we collaboratively made this little man smile. And this image warms my heart and brings me so much joy. Over a year in the making to get a smile. Well worth it!

So, when I received their Christmas card in the mail last week, I just sat and smiled. It is beautiful and I could only say over and over to myself. I.did.that. That is my photograph. However, I have to give all the glory to God. He gave me the desire and talent and I want to glorify Him through my gift. Thank you C family for allowing me to capture your family over the last year. You have  been generous, gracious and truly a blessing.  I hope to continue to bless you with my gift.

Senior portraiture is my absolute favorite type of portrait session. So much life ahead of them and they just glow with excitement for their futures. Whitney was no exception. You can see the sparkle in her smile AND her eyes! Absolutely gorgeous girl. Absolutely full of sweetness and kindness. I {love} these portraits!

For the second year in a row, I’ve been honored to be able to help out Furst Fotos with volunteer photography services at the DFW Autism Speaks Walk. This event is always so rewarding to photograph. The children are amazing. The vendors are amazing. The families are amazing. It’s just downright happiness wrapped up into one chilly Fall morning. If you’d like to learn more about Autism, you can find the Autism Speaks organization on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/autismspeaks.

For all photos from the walk, go to www.furstfotos.com and select the link to the walk.

Here are a few of my favorite shots from the event.

Back to bring you that video I promised. What a beautiful family! And then this little gem of an image that  didn’t make it into the video at first because I overlooked it. The more I look at this session the more little hidden nuggets of cuteness I find!

Last year I had the distinct pleasure of spending a Sunday afternoon with this amazing family and I’m honored to have had another opportunity this year to do the same. They are silly, sweet and just plain fun to be around. They made my day!  I’ll post the video after I’ve shared it with them. But for now, enjoy this cutie pie!

Please say a prayer for this precious young girl and her family.  She needs some serious healing. CaringBridge / laurendollarhide / Welcome.

If you know me personally, you know we don’t have any children. We love children. Other people’s children.