Alyse French Photography | Houston-Based Wedding and Lifestyle Photographer

It has been a LONG time, bloggy friends. And I THANK you for your patience during my recent blogging hiatus. The past two weeks have contained more Tidbit Tuesday-worthy moments than I can even attempt to write about. But a brief overview goes a little something like: went home for Christmas; went to Syracuse for Christmas-Christmas; flew home with tissues in one hand and beef jerky in the other; shot the most b-e-a-u-tiful New Year’s Eve wedding; had my brother Cam and his girlfriend Casey visit for six days; and finished a five-day antibiotic for bronchitis with side effects that made me just a tad more loopy than I am in everyday life. Yes, I DID try to pay the UPS guy with just one quarter, and wondered why he needed more than that.. It took me a few, but I got it. ;)

So yesterday? I ate an entire package of Toaster Strudel. I’m telling you, those commercials will be the death of me. It’s like I see one, showcasing those perfectly uniform lines of creamy icing on those perfectly flaky and gooey fruity treats, and I just. CAN’T. HELP. MYSELF. Within the hour, I was headed to the grocery store. Where I ALSO picked up orange juice and grape-nuts cereal to make up for the fact… (Oh-but-I-also-picked-up-an-apple-pie!!)

My BIRTHDAY month is here!! Just a little less than three weeks and counting. And for your own convenience (you know who you are) I’ve created this here Pinterest board of things I love! ;) The 30th falls on a Monday this year, but I’mma party on my own while Dylan’s at work by making my own cake. SEE!

Last week, during Cam and Casey’s trip to Houston, we went to the zoo! It’s my go-to destination for all visitors. WHO doesn’t like watching apes eat bugs out of each other’s heads anyway?? Or two red maned wolves attempting to kill a sweet little anteater minding its own sweet little business? OR two baby monkeys rip a worm in half and share it like best buds? Obviously, not us. Because I assure you, it was basically awesome. That, and the people watching is fantastic!

LIFE! It is beautiful. And I’ve been reminded of that a lot lately. SO many of my close friends are either getting engaged or having babies. I mean, seriously! THREE baby-announcements in THREE days?! When did we get this old? I’m not sure. But one thing I know from visiting the zoo? I want to be a hott and healthy mom someday. You know, that mom with the long flowing hair done up in waves. Wearing skinny jeans and bedazzled flats. She’s basically my hero.

Song of the Week: After the Storm by Mumford & Sons. I know I’ve highlighted pretty much every song on this album, but there’s just something so calming and peaceful about it. Whenever I need to relax, I listen to this song. I’ve also found that the Sigh No More album is the perfect drive-home-after-a-wedding album. Very reflective and pretty and sweet! And it’s especially great for when you’re sick in bed. With apple pie. Check out After the Storm HERE.

As I continue to work on Michelle and J’Max’s completely amazing wedding, I can’t help but share this image which totally made me squeal at first sight! The rest of the sneak peek is coming your way later this week on the blog. So believe me – you will WANT to stay tuned for this New Year’s Eve celebration!!

Happy Tuesday!! :)

I have this feeling… That 2012 is going to be one of the best years of my life. That though it’s begun with a dead phone, a dead computer, and a bout of viral bronchitis, it’s still so full of promise. Goals begging to be fulfilled.. And big, exciting changes on the horizon. Take note: This is NOT code for “baby.”

As 2012 has taken off, I’ve been thinking. A lot. It turns out when you lose your voice, you really have no one to share things with but yourself. And I’m CONVINCED this is Dylan’s dream-come-true. ;) But I digress… I’ve been thinking a lot about this blog. This beautiful outlet for writing my thoughts and building community with brides and grooms, friends and family, and fellow photographers across the globe. I’m so thankful for the time capsule it’s become.

But there’s so much more to life than what I’ve so routinely blogged. There are memories and stories and revelations. There are struggles, and there are       victories. And I’m resolved to make 2012 a year for sharing. All the more! Wishing you the best year of your life in 2012! :)

A VERY Merry Christmas to you and yours from Alyse French Photography and the Morrissey family! :)

For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end. Isaiah 9:6-7a