I have a confession. One of my current pastimes is stalking the Instagrams associated with various celebrities’ Twitter accounts. I have no idea why. I suppose I just find it fascinating that these people have actual, real lives. My most recent stalkings? Well.. They’re actually people I have no connection or loyalty to at all. *Cough cough* Say, Selena Gomez or Kourtney Kardashian? *Cough cough.* Which brings me to – I GET MY IPHONE ON SUNDAY!! And although I can’t promise my Instagrams will be as interesting as a celeb’s… You can bet anything that I’m ready to jump on that bandwagon! YAAHOOO!!!

You know how I can get slightly obsessive about things I love? Like eating quiche for two meals a day, every day, for two weeks? Or listening to a two-song playlist on repeat all day long? I have a similar obsession with my TV shows… Especially when they end after FIVE glorious seasons of entertaining me. This past Friday, Chuck – otherwise known as the best show on television – ended for good. And I cried. And I criied. And I criiied. And then I locked myself in the bathroom and forced myself to get a grip. I’m much, much better now. For those of you who were concerned… :)

Song of the Week: Our God by Chris Tomlin. The worship team at Kaleo played this song on Sunday morning and although I’d heard it before, it resonated with me in a whole new way. I’ve been hooked ever since, and am committed to going into my 24th year with these lyrics as my anthem. “Our God is greater. Our God is stronger. God, You are higher than ANY other. Our God is Healer. Awesome in power. Our God.” AMEN, Internet!! To listen to this keeper, go HERE!!

This Thursday I’ll be sharing a peek into a super sweet and casual shoot with Sully’s breeder’s family! More specifically – the Dowell siblings! But until then, enjoy this small taste of the fun. Meet: Sully’s REAL parents, chasing after us at top speed!! It’s not a groundbreaking picture. But it makes me smile! ;)

Happy Tuesday!!

Yesterday I took Sully to get his nails ground down. And like clockwork, as soon as he jumps out of the car, people stop what they’re doing and stare and laugh at him. If I didn’t know any better, I’d swear they were making fun of how overweight he is. (We’re TRYING!) But I’ve decided to believe they’re in awe of his cuteness, his heifer-like spots (no pun intended), and the way he walks like he’s on a mission! Protruding chin up. Ears back. Smiling the whole time.

As my birthday approaches… And as unopened packages labeled “Open 1/30!” pile up on my desk.. Well? I get more and more excited. I’m not entirely sure why I get so pumped for my birthday each year. I think it’s the fact that my 24th year will be a new beginning. Not that 23 was bad at all! I loved it. :) But 24?! It’s like I’ll finally be an adult or something! ;) Dylan and I plan to celebrate on Saturday since he’ll be working on Monday. And if all goes according to plan, we’ll wake up to bagels, eggs and bacon magically prepared for us/me. We’ll spend the morning on a birthday shopping-spree. We’ll prep a fab lunch with my new kitchen gadgetry. We’ll watch the ‘Cuse game. We’ll rent a movie we’ll actually pay attention to! And then we’ll be off to dinner with fancy shoes on.

Song of the Week: Without You by David Guetta featuring Usher. Oh, like you didn’t know my “songs of the week” are basically always determined by whatever was sung on Glee the week before… ;) While I like Lea Michelle’s version more, I am in LOVE with this new hit. No longer do I only associate David Guetta with a banner ad that always interrupts my Spotify playlist! Without You is a strangely-emotional masterpiece. Listen/watch HERE aaand HERE. :)

Until Thursday, I’ll leave you with this sneak peek of Kylee and Casey’s super stylish and sweet engagement session shot yesterday at Memorial Park! To say these two are absolutely ADORABLE with each other is the understatement of the century. Can’t wait to share more!! Stay tuned!

Happy Tuesday!!

So, I’m drafting a new 101 in 1001 goal list and I couldn’t be more excited about it! I hope to explain more as to why I’m starting completely over when I share it on the blog on Thursday. But for now, I’m about 46 goals short! Apart from learning to knit and purchasing a sectional sofa more conducive to cuddling (because those are already on my list), what are some goals I should be considering?? (Note: This is not an invitation to tell me to lay off the Toaster Strudel.)

I think I’ve managed to inform most people who’d need to know, but for the sake of re-informing my sister for the seventh time… I am currently phoneless. Okay, that’s not exaaactly true. I am currently rocking a $15 Tracfone! The reason is three-fold. One – I’ve gone through three Blackberries in the past year and a half. They are all absolutely dreadful phones. Two – Verizon refused to give me my upgrade three weeks early even though I tried to charm them with my scratchy new laryngitic voice. And three – I sort of happen to like it! It’s a bare-bones, call-911-if-you’re-home-alone-and-start-choking kind of phone. And although I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t be able to speak if I were choking, I happen to find some sort of comfort in that.

Dylan and I saw The Iron Lady on Saturday. And although so much of it felt irrelevant to me – I was 2-years-old when Margaret Thatcher left office – this film was incredibly beautiful and inspiring and heavy. The legacy left by both Thatcher AND my favorite actress of all time – Miss Meryl Streep, ladies and gentlemen – have had me thinking ever since. Also… If you plan on seeing this movie in theaters and insist on bringing in a box of Nerds, be sure to only take a swig during the parliament scenes when everyone is SCREAMING at each other. That way, no one will hear you. :)

Hey brides!! Have you been keeping tabs on BHLDN lately? And are you on their mailing list?? Because you 100% SHOULD be. I woke up to a sweet little email this morning, highlighting six different makeup looks for your big day by the fabulous Riku Campo. And you can even download the how-to’s! My personal fave is autumn twilight. SO perfect. Be sure to join BHLDN’s mailing list HERE!

Song of the Week: I Can’t Make You Love Me/Nick of Time by Bon Iver. I  have always loooved Bonnie Raitt’s original version of the former, but when I found out Bon Iver recorded THIS, I flipped out. Sure it’s heartbreakingly depressing. But it’s SO. GOOD. And you must listen!! :)

Until Thursday, here’s a sneak peek at what my January has looked like so far… Which is also a hint at some of my new goals. ;)

Happy Tuesday!!

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!! :)

CHRISTMAS!! It’s in four sleeps, 12 hours, and 15 minutes! Don’t get me wrong – I’m STOKED for the 25th – but I’m most excited for the days leading up to and following it. We’ll be spending the first four days with my family, and for the first time EVER, all of us kids have a significant other at the same time. I’m feeling a TRIPLE date, yo! I’m also most excited for huge meals prepared by all and eaten at the table for hours and hours and hours. OH! And my most recent obsessive idea is to document our family togetherness by setting up a photo booth in the living room. So get ready, blogosphere! This is going to be AWESOME.

You know… My dreams may make me out to be totally fabulous and brave and brilliant, but I’m kind of over crashing into windows because I’m running from some guy chasing me through an unfamiliar house with a machete. I’m happy to report that last night, however, I woke up just slightly before dying. :)

So I sort of debated posting this as I certainly don’t want to toot my own horn, but ultimately the pride I have in my alma mater won out. The S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University was just named the NUMBER ONE journalism school in the country by NewsPro! Suddenly, all the frustration and tears spent on newswriting and portfolio reviews has been redeemed. :) I really did have the BEST experience there. BRAVO, Newhouse!! Bravo!

Song of the Week: Hero by Bethany Dillon. I’ve been re-falling in love with Bethany Dillon lately. Okay, let’s be real. I’ve always been in love with her. Heck, I’ve wanted to BE her. But this song specifically resonates with me. He’s the hero we’ve been waiting for. He has done the impossible! Check out Hero HERE!

I am just DYING to show you this week’s wedding post!! All the blog images are ready and waiting for the publish button, but seeing them on Christmas Eve’s Eve’s Eve will make it so much better, right? ;) Here is another sneak peak of Sara and Robert’s completely wonderful day and sweet first look!!

Happy Tuesday!!

So you would NEVER believe this, but I have showered, gotten dressed in clothes other than pajamas, done my hair and makeup, AND eaten breakfast this morning. Basically, I’ve adhered to a normal working person’s routine for the first time since well, I’m not sure. I’m really trying to hold myself to a different standard with this coming new year. Something about clean hair just makes you feel like you can take on the WORLD, yaknowhaimean?

Later today, Sully’s going to the groomer’s for a nail trim. It’s not that I haven’t tried a million times to do it myself, but Sully has seriously outgrown us. Even teaming up with Dylan proves futile. All my weight isn’t enough to hold down 68 pounds of flailing muscle and, yes, fat. The vet told us Sully needs to go on a diet.. But ohhh will PetSmart be in for a rude awakening. I fear it’ll take a team of six to cut just one nail. I just pray I don’t break down like a big fool…

Have you looked into December’s 1 For Me // 1 For You yet? It is running a week later than usual, but it’s still loads of prettiness and fun!! Entering is SUPER easy and if you win, you can consider it a Christmas stocking gift from us to you! :) Check out the post HERE. And remember, there’s a giveaway every month!

Some quirky quirks I’ve noticed about myself these past few weeks: I spend the first 10 minutes of each day with only my right eye open. I guess it just takes longer for the left one to wake up. I also have a fascination with making sure my saran-wrapped bowls are perfectly taut. And I mean perfectly. Like a drum. Lastly, I’ve found I’m more productive during my work day when wearing uncomfortable shoes. Maybe this means I could expense these lovely pumps. Right?!

Song of the Week: We Are Young by Fun feat. Janelle Monáe. It’s my new anthem! Okay, it’s a toss up between this version and the one I heard for the first time on Glee last week. But either version makes every day better. Really. You should try it! Listen to Fun’s version HERE and Glee’s version HERE.

I shot the most beeeautiful wedding day last Saturday at Giddings Stone Mansion in Brenham, and I am SO excited to share it with you all! Until then, here is a little sneak of the stylish bride and groom. MELT. ME. And stay tuned!!

Happy Tuesday!!

Happy Wednesday!

Last week I took care of a very sick Dylan, not stopping short to feed him grapes by hand. Okay, that’s a lie, but I’m VERY good at bringing him water. Something I’ve learned I’m not so good at? Making oatmeal. (Those are Dylan’s words, not mine.) I for one, think you can’t possibly screw up oatmeal. But after I made Dylan his usual breakfast with water instead of milk, he took two bites and put it aside. I then remade the oatmeal with milk, went about my daily business, and then found it barely touched on the kitchen counter. I believe “UM, WHAT IS THIS DOING HERE?!” were the exact words out of my mouth. ;)

Once Dylan felt a bit better and made his own third bowl of oatmeal, we went to see the new and BRILLIANT Muppets movie. I kid you not, Blogosphere, it was the best movie I’ve ever seen in my entire life. I have never smiled so big for so long. And I certainly have never felt the need to stay in my seat until the very last of the credits rolled. Though that was more on account of not wanting all the 4-year-old kids there to see my mascara all running down my face. What can I say? Those Muppets play the nostalgia card HARD… Plus, singing and dancing puppets are clearly the way to my heart. PLEASE SEE IT.

I have a very sensitive olfactory system. Know how I can tell? Well, I can just SMELL January coming. There’s something about the fresh new start each January brings that inspires me so intensely. It will definitely be time to update the 101 in 1001 and even tweak it a bit. Some new goals I want to accomplish in 2012 specifically? Teach Sully how to skateboard. And turn 24. The latter should be easy enough. But I have to admit, I’m a bit overwhelmed by the former… QUESTION (because it’s fun to think about and hear what others’ goals are!): What are some of YOUR goals for 2012 and beyond? YAY!!

Song of the Week: Tongue Tied by Grouplove. It’s indeed a fact that I get most of my music choices from commercials. I’m sure you’ve heard this week’s song in THIS super catchy iPod ad. And after adding it to my Spotify playlist, I can’t get enough. Fun tidbit: I could have SWORN the beginning of the second verse was “Take me to your best friend’s house. Marmalade, we’re making out. Ohhh yeeeah.” But when I sung it in the car yesterday Dylan made me question my certainty. I for one love marmalade and believe it’s totally make-out-able. But “marmalade” is actually “normally.” Whatevs. Listen HERE to get what I mean. :)

We’re excited to share Tammy and Sonny’s wedding this week on the blog! It was our first traditional Vietnamese wedding ever, and was such a sweet experience to be a part of. Here’s a quick sneak peak of one of my FAVORITE images. And if you’d like to see sneak peeks immediately after weddings, be sure to like our Facebook page HERE! :) (So much for toning down the capitals…) Be sure to tell us your goals in the comment section below!!

Happy Tuesday!

About five times per week, Dylan and I will drop what we’re doing, look at each other, and say “If anyone knew we were this out of our minds… Well, let’s just say I’m glad no one can see us..” Reasons for saying this include but are not limited to breaking out into song and dance multiple times a day and chasing each other down the hallways of our apartment complex. I guess you can be the judge if you close your eyes and try REALLY hard to imagine it. ;)

I suppose we should just dedicate this entire Tidbit Tuesday to Christmas, because I can’t seem to stop thinking it. Breathing it. Singing it. If you follow me on Twitter or Facebook, you might have seen that I LOVE Christmas, but HATE Christmas music. What followed that tweet was an onslaught of comments from people absolutely appalled that I could say such a thing. Well, let me take this opportunity to clarify.. There is nothing about Jingle Bells, or Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree that I enjoy. (I’m sorry, friends!) What I DO enjoy, and have in fact listened to non-stop for the past two days, is Ella Fitzgerald’s version of Baby It’s Cold Outside. But it HAS to be that EXACT version. Nothing else quite compares. Sufjan Stevens’ Songs For Christmas aren’t that bad either.

HUGE NEWS! After nearly a year of tripping over the massive gate blocking off our living room from Sully’s disastrous ways, we have fiiinally taken it down for a trial run. And JUST like that, our square footage feels like it’s doubled. I still instinctively hike up one leg while passing from the dining room into the living room, but it is soo, SO nice to have my baby dog warming my feet as I work each day. He does have two strikes so far (trying to swallow Dylan’s sandals whole, and rubbing some of the stain off of the coffee table with his calloused bottom lip) but we’ll work on that… :)

Song of the Week: Barnacled Warship by Johnny Flynn. I’d seen Dylan listening to Johnny Flynn non-stop for the last couple of months via Facebook and Spotify, but never really listened myself until this past weekend. I am majorly HOOKED on this song, these genius lyrics, and this guy’s totally unique tone. And of course, I’ve never met a Johnny/Jonny Flynn I didn’t like. You can check out my new favorite song by clicking HERE!

Last week, I shot a different kind of portrait session. One for an 8-month-old puppy named Padfoot, whose parents got suckered in to those sweet eyes and smile when “casually” looking at dogs. Word to the wise: you will ALWAYS come home with a new friend. Let’s not kid ourselves. ;) More to come Thursday!!

Happy Tuesday!!

We experienced our first house fire this weekend. You see, the inner-boyscout in Dylan likes to light candles and then throw in the matches right after. So on Friday night, when I looked over at the table from the couch and saw flames shooting a good six inches from the wick, I went to go check it out. The flames were still contained within the glass candle holder, but the match-tepee-fire was simply too strong and un-blow-out-able. I asked Dylan to come help me blow it out, and even four lungs were not enough. So Dylan got some water in a mug, and proceeded to pour it into the candle. But that’s when our dining room table turned into a gourmet chef’s stovetop. Flames SHOT up toward the ceiling and danced across the table. I ran for the fire extinguisher, handed it to Dylan, and then screamed “NOOO, SULLY!!!” I grabbed all 65 pounds of him and locked him in the bathroom while Dylan shot foam ALL over the place. It took close to two hours to clean the mess. But despite that minor annoyance, I happen to think it’s a pretty awesome story. ;)

Once upon a time, I blogged about this amazing experience I had to photograph a veteran’s wish coming true. If you’re not sure what I’m talking about, you can catch up HERE. Later that same day I got word that one of my images from that amazing experience was picked up by the Associated Press, and made Yahoo’s Photo of the Day. And I had never felt so warm and fuzzy… To be completely honest, the busy-ness of the month of November had been burning me out. But God so lovingly placed an opportunity in my lap to remind me of why I do what I do. And I’m so crazy thankful for that…

Speaking of! Every day of the past week has set a new record for the number of hits we’ve received to our blog. At first, we thought it was from the media buzz surrounding Blaine’s wish. But then we noticed a particular pin on Pinterest that had apparently gone viral and FAST. The pin is a photo I took of my sister-in-law Jenn, holding a picture of the moment my brother-in-law Josh proposed to her. He’d hired a photographer to take the image way back, but had waited to gift it to Jenn until their wedding day. Clearly, everyone on Pinterest thinks it’s a fabulous idea, and now it’s making the rounds via Tumblr. We’re stoked that our blog has been on the receiving end, with 1318 hits yesterday and counting! What power Pinterest has for our businesses if we just know how to harness it!

I’m terribly long-winded today, so I’ll leave you with this… A sneak peak of what’s hitting the blog this week, except for this post, it’s been processed with VSCO film presets for Adobe Camera Raw. If you’re a photog who enjoys the look of film but doesn’t shoot it, you MUST give these a try. I am in LOVE. First? Tina and Jin’s adorable e-session at Discovery Green, and then Eden and Michael’s awesomely unique wedding at The Tasting Room at River Oaks!

Happy Tuesday!