Natural. Candid. Real. Beautiful. { The Blog. }

NEW BLOG! COME ON OVER!

This blog is moooooving - come on over!  Update your Google readers and email subscriptions, pretty please.

NEW and IMPROVED blog is here ---- > http://www.snickerdoodlesphoto.com/blog

To my dear email subscribers - please re-subscribe to the new blog, as I will no longer be posting to this one.  It's easy peasy - look for the subscribe by email button on the new blog - top right.  Enter your email like you did here, and voila!  You're subscribed.  I will do a happy dance when I see your subscription come through.  You know I will.

Come on over!  I can't wait to show you!

xo

Christi

Rockin' Rock Star baby

Something came over me right after I shot this photo and looked at it on my camera.  I got all weepy.  Was it just an emotional day?  PMS (sorry dudes, TMI)?  Thinking of my babies when they were this tiny and wishing I could have one more day of them little again?  Or was it just a Mama kind of thing?  I don't know.  But it overwhelmed me.  And I put my hand over my mouth and said to Ashleigh, "Ooooh, I think I'm going to cry."

And then I did.  Just a litle.  Getta hold of yourself, woman, I said to myself.  And then we moved on.  I do that sometimes.  I get all crazy emotional and I have to give myself a talking to.  You know.

Meet baby Finn.  And baby Finn's feet.  They're perfect little feet.

I love me some baby feet.  Yes I do.

 

Remember Ashleigh on the couch here?  Now it's Finn's turn on the couch.  Makes me smile.

Here comes the Rock Star part.  Because you so knew they would rock it out like they usually do.  In true Rock Star style.

 

 

Ashleigh and Steve - it's such a pleasure every. single. time.  Seeing you two with your sweet little man was good for my soul.  Oh how I love you guys.  And now I love Finn.  And course I very much love Walter and Dude.  It's a privilege to know you.  First being able to capture your love and now your new little family - and turn it into memories for you... it humbles me.  And makes me feel so thankful. 

Life is good. 

Thank you for having me, once again.

xo

Christi

I couldn't wait.

I was so excited. 

Beyond excited. 

I couldn't wait.

The last time I had photographed them was almost 3 years ago - Avery was barely walking, and Adie was just 3 years old.  Fast forward to today.  Now we added new baby Chelsea to the mix [swoon goes the girl with the camera], and their equally as great Daddy.  I was smiling all night tonight as I was proofing their photos.  Because I was remembering.  With fondness and big spot in my heart.  I'm telling y'all.  They're dreamy.  

Side note that needs to be said: ------- > This mom is so fab.  She's breezy.  She's kind.  She's funny.  Very funny.  She's so genuine.  Everything's all gravy baby when you're around Holly.  She's like an old friend.  I could sit and talk to her for hours.  I like gravy baby.  And I like Holly.  A lot.

 

Adie, 3 years ago: I remember the exact dress she wore.  How her pretty blonde hair was wispy all around her face.  The tea party.  The blanket under the evergreen tree.  The music and the dancing.  How she twirled.  We blew bubbles.  [I should see if I can dig up a photo or two].  Ahhhh I'm getting all nostalgic here on the bloggity.  Let's get to the photos, peeps. 

Boy, I'm chatty tonight.

 

This is pretty much the photo that pretty much makes me wish for 10 more babies.  Sigh.  Dear Miss Chelsea, you couldn't be any sweeter. 

 

 

 

It was so so windy and chilly out.  But they were troopers.

And we blew some more bubbles.  I love bubbles.  So does Avery.  Avery's a cool dude.

 

Holly - once again, it was a pleasure.  Thank you for having me.  Oh, and btw, Rupert was so good for my soul on that day.  I needed him.  And your sweet family of 5.  So, thank you.

xo

Christi

Walter + Dude rock it out

How much do we love Walter (the king and ruler of all) and Dude (the sensitive, soft-hearted guy)?  A lot.  A ton.  A bazillion.  Watch out Finn - big brothers of the canine kind rule the roost.  And rightfully so. :)

 

More of the beautiful belly - just because.  I can't help myself.

 

Super sunny it was - and I was almost ready to throw in the towel.  But so glad we didn't.  Because we got this shot at the end. 

Ummmm yeah.  It's hot.  And sweet.  I love their love.  He adores her.  She adores him.  Mmmmmm I love how great they are together.

 

Dear Ashleigh, Steve, Walter and Dude (Simon too - brother of the feline kind),

It was a pleasure, as it always is.  I can't wait to be a part of welcoming baby Finn into your family - so excited for what's in store for you.  Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to capture your story.  It's absolutely my privilege.  So thankful to have met you.

xo

Christi

They rock it out like rock stars

I can hardly get my fingers going fast enough - I have been dying to show you all this Mama-to-be and her belly for days.  Days, I'm telling you.  Because she glows.  Really.  Not just a litle glow.  I'm talking sunshiney rays + a whole lot of glamour.  Check her out, in all of her beauty-fullness. 

This baby's Mommy and Daddy rock.  Like, they rock it out like rock stars.  And I should know, y'all.  This is our 3rd photo shoot, and I have loved every last one of them.  Engagement/boudoir photos + wedding photos + belly photos.  Sigh.  I adore them.  And I'm so excited to meet baby Finn in a few weeks.  Because he'll rock it out like a rock star, too.  How could he not?

I gasped when I saw these next two.  Holy schmoly.  Glowing, she is.  Told you. ;)

 

Stay tuned to see their rock star dogs, Walter and Dude, as they rock it out on the blog Tuesday.  Be there or be square.  Peace.

xo

Christi

 

Secrets Of The Mountain

Set your DVR for NBC's Secrets Of The Mountain Friday night at 8:00 p.m.  This is Crossroads' former Pastor Brian Wells' executive producer debut.  He's passionate about counteracting our sex and violence satiated culture.  Don't be scared - no Bible thumping, just a movie that reminds us that when times are tough, families don’t run away from problems – they run back to each other.  Check it out.  Spread the word, my peeps.

You can view the trailer and learn about the movie here.  

xo

Christi

P.S. I'm not in hiding.  I AM back from South Africa.  Heart and mind so full.  Bloggity and photos soon, friends. :)

6 hours

I'm Africa bound in 6 hours.  Ummmmm.  I guess I'll sleep on the plane.  My suitcase is empty.  Queen of procrastination right here. 

You can follow me on the Mamelodi blog here.  We'll be posting there regularly, so check it out!  Maybe you can see yours truly on video, across the world.  Coolio huh?  I can hardly wait to see what happens when we be | do | love | hope for something bigger than ourselves.

Peace out, y'all.  Gotta go pack.

xo

Christi

7 days

In just 7 days, I will be 10 hours into the flight to Mamelodi, South Africa.  Ahem.  10 out of 20 hours. (Ipod stocked up with tunes and the Free Book - must buy gummy bears and hit the library this weekend).

To those of you who have supported me... I am a million times grateful.  A zillion times.  Because this trip is so, so important to me.  I can't put into words how important.  I could gush for days, and I still couldn't explain how important.  Really.

If you gave $5 or $10 or $100...

If you took the time to tell me that you're excited for me to have this opportunity... or that you're praying...

Please know that I appreciate you so much.

Because it made me feel that you care. 

About me. 

And that, my friends, means so much.

More than you know.  

xo

Christi

P.S. I was looking at some of the videos that I took the last trip, and it made me even more excited.  If that's even possible. :)

    *my email subscriber friends - you'll need to click on the blog post title to view the videos - enjoy!

Next up: If you're having trouble understanding what they're saying in the beginning, you're not alone :)

"We are going to present a poem. God made many things. At one time, there was no world. There was no sun. There was no moon (wait until you see the cuteness of the boy who says that part)..." 

Then another group sings:

"Jesus, sweet Jesus,
What a wonder You are
You are brighter than the morning star;
You are fairer, much fairer
Than the lily that grows by the wayside,
Precious, more precious than gold."

Sweet as peach pie. I. Can't. Wait. To love on some sweet babies.

Some kids we met on the side of a road - they get super excited about anything that you give them, but they definitely love suckers:

You might get motion sickness near the end of this next one :) I was holding my camera out of the window of the car - just a glimpse of what life in South Africa is like:

A couple from the Safari - zebras and rhinos:

Father Abraham... makes me smile:

People would line up before dawn at our medical tent - sometimes just to get some Ibuprofen or vitamins.  Hours they would wait in the hot sun. With no complaints. Just gratefulness:

Near the end of our trip - music during baptisms and community with our new South African friends:

Counting down to experience the goodness that is South Africa... only 7 days away.

The Today Show

Bronson and his parents were on the Today Show yesterday... thought it might be nice for you all to put faces with names.  Sweet little man is so darn cute.

Still speechless, thankful, humbled... and hugging my babies tighter today.

(My lovely email subscribers, click on the blog post title to see the video)

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

She is happiness

She says pupcakes instead of cupcakes.

She demands asks me to strain her orange juice every morning. Without fail.

    I forget sometimes. She doesn't.

She can't see an animal without saying "awwwwwww" and tackling the poor thing for a hug.

She would eat desserts all day if you would let her.

She challenges me.

She throws big, big tantrums that send me spinning.

    And then I get myself together.

    And I secretly whisper thank you to God for challenging me.

    And for teaching me how to mother a daughter.

    Because it's just different. 

    And one of the two most important jobs that I have. 

• [excerpt I read recently from the book Mother-Daughter Wisdom: The quality of attention we receive as babies determines in part how worthy we feel to be here on the planet. When our mother shows her approval through smiling and talking to us, then we encode the idea that we are all right. If, on the other hand, she is not present for whatever reason, or withholds her love when we don't do what she wants us to do, we feel abandoned. We'll do whatever it takes to get that attention back. As young children, our mother's approval or disapproval felt like either the kiss of life or the kiss of death."]  ...Every day, I want to be her kiss of life.  I surely don't always do it right, but I try.

She sings You Are My Sunshine in the sweetest voice I know.

She says snowflag instead of snowflake.

She still uses a paci at night, and i. don't. care.

She loves to be a little Mommy.

She's Mrs. Bossypants.

She says poe-trine instead of protein. And I laugh every time. "Mommy, I don't want poe-trine powder in my smoothie. It's disgusting"

She thinks her Daddy is the best thing in the whole wide world.  Her Mommy, not so much.  But I'm okay with that.  Because I know there will come a day when that will change (don't take this the wrong way - she loves her Mama. She just is head over heels for her Daddy).

She thinks her brother is the 2nd best thing in the whole world -------->> most of the time.

She will brush My Little Pony's hair until it starts to fall out. And she talks to that pony the whole time. "You're so pretty and beautiful, pony."

She uses her rosy-pink lips so exaggeratedly when she talks. And I love it. I could stare at her little mouth all day.

She is fearless. Unless there is a bug within 10 feet of her.

She. Is. Happiness.

I love you, my Lily bugger. With every little piece of my heart.

xo

        *not the greatest photo, technically speaking, but I captured HER. And I love it*

Oooooooh Leah...

Remember the wonderfulness of this day?  And then this little bundle of sweetness? 

I don't know how it's possible, but she keeps getting cuter.  And sweeter.  And lovable-er (I know, I like to make up words when I like how they sound). 

I have been smiling for the past 2 hours non-stop, as I've been staring at her beauty-full face on my computer monitor.  I've even giggled a few times.  I know.  I'm smitten.

*Swoon*  Ooooooh Leah.  I big heart you.  Big big.

 

Just a quick little peek for you Nicky and Lawrence - more to come!

xo

Christi

 

Big-fat-dealio-crazy-bargainy-sale

So, yesterday my friend says to me: "You've gotta give to get, Christi." ----> insert grumpy face me here

And here's what she meant - I have been struggling with the fundraising part of my upcoming South Africa trip (we leave in exactly 27 days - wow!).  The money was due February 15th.  The powers that be extended some grace, and pushed the deadline to this coming Monday.  And I'm short.  Very.  $1600 short to be exact. 

Here's where the big-fat-dealio-crazy-bargainy-sale comes in.  Ready?

• You pick a day in April or May.
• I will come to your home or the location of your choice.
• For a one-hour photo session.
• And give you a CD of all of the images (10-12 total). 

Your happy self does a big happy dance.  And then your happy, dancing self can print to your heart's desire - prints, canvas, cards, photo books (you get the idea?), etc.

Typically, this session + the CD of images would cost nearly $2,000.  But I need to get my buns on a plane to Mamelodi, South Africa.  So... the lucky number is:

YES MA'AM, YES SIR, $400 UNTIL THIS COMING MONDAY 4/1.

I AM ONLY OFFERING 4 SPOTS - once the spots are gone, they're gone, my lovely friends.

Who's excited about the big-fat-dealio-crazy-bargainy-sale? 

**dealio is valid for up to 3 children - adding in parents or other siblings?  Add $75 per extra person.  Thank you kindly. :)

Shark + Tiger = ♥

I have lots to tell you about - I'm in that kind of blogging mood, y'all :) You know I'm not great at keeping it short, but I'll do my best. Yup. Quick and breezy me. ;)

1) Sadly, the guilt is getting the best of Bronson's Mama - if you want to keep up with her, the latest post is here.  If you're a praying person, an extra prayer for Sara today would be nice...

Her words that made me feel that familiar lump in my throat and had me aching to have my babies close to me:

"Please appreciate each moment.

For once it's over, it is gone forever.

Do not let it leave you with regret.

If you are blessed with children in your life,

please embrace them for the amazing people that they are within.

Try to look them in the eye whenever you speak with them.

Connect, soul to soul, each and every day.

Allow yourself to be amazed and humbled by their depth and by their strength.

Respect them, even in their tiny, grubby packaging.

Thank them for the lessons that they teach you.

Even the painful, inconvenient ones.

For truly, what would you rather be doing anyway?"

2) NEW BLOG GOES LIVE MONDAY!  EXCITED!  Enough said.

3) The kids and I spent the day yesterday at the Newport Aquarium.  So much fun we had.  We took advantage of the winter special: 2 kids get in free with the purchase of an adult ticket ---- > ($22??!  Yes, I am the cheap-o that said it out loud when I saw the price tag - phew.  Good thing for winter specials).

Oh, and puu-lease - forgive the dark and grainy photos.  Available light in the very dark aquarium = zero.

Do you think they knew that a mammoth shark was swimming right over their heads? Um no. Their eyes bugged when I showed them the photo. 

Jellyfish are my fave... so pretty, eh?

 

Mama caved.  After we got to pet the sharks, we had to get some shark face painting.  Mac wanted a mean shark - hence, the dripping blood.  Yep.

No, we did not pet any tigers; however, Lily was dying to be a tiger.  She was convinced that everyone thought that she was a real tiger.  "Mama, Daddy will think I'm real. And I'll roar at him. But then he might know that it's me because tigers can't walk. And they don't have hair like me."...."Yes, baby, you're right."

4) Big dealio sale coming tomorrow - stay tuned! 

It's good, people. 

It involves a CD of digital images so you can print 'til your heart's content.  I'm doing this dealio once, and only once.  And it's for a great cause.  Tomorrow.  Be here or be square. ;) 

xo

South Africa, take 2

Just over one year ago, I traveled to Mamelodi, South Africa.

It changed my life.

I went with the intention of helping to build homes, plant food, love on the South African people and build them up.

They loved on me.

They built me up.

They changed my life...

Over the past 4 years, my church has sent over 1,400 people to work in Mamelodi, South Africa. Mamelodi is a township community of nearly 1 million people that is being ravaged by HIV/AIDS, crushing unemployment and poverty, and a population of orphans that is growing exponentially. I can’t begin to describe the poverty and sickness. It’s like nothing that I have ever seen.

In just 37 days, I am going back.

My blog friends - I am asking for your support and prayer - for peace for me as I travel across the country; for our safety and good health; for the Mamelodi people whose lives will be touched by God through us. Through me – crazy that I have again been given this opportunity. Unbelievable and just plain crazy.

The fundraising... ugh.  It's one of my least favorite things on the planet - call it pride, call it what you will - it's uncomfortable, and I. don't. like. it. But I will humble myself. And find the good in the uncomfortable.

They have been gracious and extended the deadline. 

They said get on it, Christi - or jump ship.  I'm not jumping ship, y'all. 

So.... I now have 12 more days - yes, 12 days - to raise another $1,720 for my mission trip to Mamelodi, South Africa.  I feel guilty. Or something. To be fund-raising for my trip when I just want to tell you to donate to the people in Haiti. They need it more than I do, I tell myself. And then, I hear a voice say, trust Me on this one, Christi. Be vulnerable. Put yourself out there.

So I am.

If you are able, you can donate your tax-deductible contribution here.  Click on the donate tab, and type my last name to make a secure donation. Much love, friends. Tons of it. And hugs. Because hugs are warm. And this snowy day is cold. :)

xo

Christi

 

Bronson's Miracle

Ooooh my goodness - if you have a few minutes, you will want to watch this video (email subscribers, you'll need to click on the title of this post to view the video).

Bronson is home. Bust out the Kleenex, y'all...

And the crazy miracle continues...

I can't believe it. I really can't.

Bronson is going home. As in, discharged. From DOA to a very happy, smiling boy. Who is going home.

Words from his Mama:

"Just wanted you to know what your prayers have done.

Words are utterly useless.

None sufficient to express relief and gratitude of this magnitude.

But thank you.

THANK YOU."

I was wrong

I stumbled upon a photographer's blog last week that shook me. 

I cried huge tears. 

My heart ached. Big.

I put my head down on my desk and cried more. 

I wished for Sara that there was a rewind button....

It was a typical Saturday morning.

Sara ran a bath for the 2 littlest ones.

It was only a few inches.

She peeked out of the bathroom to check on one of her other children, who had been sick. He said he was cold and wanted some pajamas. So she went to quickly grab him some pajamas.

She would tell you that was the biggest mistake of her life.

In just a few short minutes, her little boy Bronson had drowned. He wasn't breathing. He didn't have a pulse.  She performed CPR.  He arrived at the hospital dead on arrival.  Here's the entry that I read that had my head spinning.

And here is a photo of Bronson just 10 days ago:

I prayed to God for a miracle.  I prayed to God for mercy on this sweet family.  I prayed to God to keep my babies safe from harm; if I were Sara, I think I would crumble into a thousand tiny pieces.  

And then I didn't believe.

I prayed, but I checked Sara's blog daily, expecting to see an announcement for funeral arrangements.

I was wrong.

Me, of little faith, had her eyes opened...

You can read more about Bronson here. 

And in the words of Sara...

"Hug your babies a little tighter...

Give your children a little extra squeeze....

Be a little more patient and diligent

and a little less distracted

by the things that will wait until later.

Embrace the things that matter most."

Thank you Sara.  And thank you Bronson.  For teaching me about faith.  And perseverance.  And about embracing the things that matter most.

Big, big heart Holly

Remember this post?  I big, big heart Holly - I just do. Holly is a musician that I stumbled upon about 2 years ago. I would go listen to her play anywhere and everywhere that I could. Her music and her style just made me so.... happy. THEN, I got to know Holly a little better when we were in South Africa together. And let me tell you something (and I will try not to gush) - not only is her music amazing, but SHE is amazing. She's a sweet-spirited, humble and graceful, broken and moldable, resilient and inspiring woman. Okay. I gushed a little. I just love me a little Holly, m'kay? ;)

Holly has an upcoming show on 2/19/10 @ 6:30 p.m. at The Underground. I'll be there with bells on. Yes I will. And I'll be darn happy about it. Love you Holly, honey. xo

Me ----> MIA

Hello my lovely friends, from this blog's sad and lonely state of MIA-ness :) It's sad, so very sad, isn't it? Bad blogger. Bad, bad blogger. 

Over and over, I have promised myself that I will be better. That I will get on a blogging routine, once and for all. 

I love to blog. I love to read other blogs. I love blog land. I feel my cheeks flushing at the thought that you, my blog-o-sphere friends, keep checking back, and what do you get?  Nada.  Nothin'.  Zippo.  Zilch. 

It gives me a pit right in my stomach.

What do you say we turn over a new leaf? Let's do it. I'm all in.

I, #1 blogging slacker, do hereby solemnly swear that I will neglect this blog no longer. Cross my heart.

I feel better now.

And just in case you were wondering, I have been one busy little bee. Just to name a few things, in no specific order:

I have been loving on my babies, playing Disney princess Yahtzee and watching TMNT (dear Spidey, we still love you; but the green dudes have seriously taken over).

I have been making crafts out of "worker" paper, as Mac puts it (well, it's really construction paper, but we let him call it worker paper);

I have been baking bread instead of buying it (and thanks to my friend Tisha and her fab post, I have now added this book to my Amazon wish list).

I have been reading mindless books that I'm too embarrassed to disclose to you all.

Well, okay... this was the latest. Don't hate people, don't hate. I had to see what all the hype was about.

I have been learning much about the benefits of social networking (which includes getting with the rest of 2010 and joining Twitter, working on a Snickerdoodles Photography facebook fan page, and putting together a fantastic new blog).

I have been working on getting new images ready for my web site.

I have been working on putting together some fab new client packets, that will knock your socks clean off.

I have been working on strengthening my brand and networking with other local businesses.

I have been drinking too much coffee, and loving every minute of it.

I have been volunteering in the 3 year old classroom at my church. I still tear up every time all of the kids and teachers/volunteers dance and sing some Jesus songs together, hand motions and all. I do. Their sweet little spirits remind me to humble myself and just be me. 

I have been preparing to return to South Africa in just 6 short weeks.

I have been working here again, just for a short time.

I have been watching this show, which is a complete and utter embarrassment that I'm admitting it on the world wide web. Remember, don't hate. :o)

I have been laughing with Mac and Lily while we tell knock knock jokes and laugh ourselves silly - and any other crazy jokes that we can find....

"Why does the Indian chief wear so many feathers? To keep his wigwam."

If Mac were sitting next to me, he would be cracking his little self up. I love me some giggling babies. And speaking of the best little Indian chief and pilgrim ever....

Notice Lily sporting her pink Chucks under her lovely pilgrim dress ;)

Chatty, chatty me - can you tell how much I've missed you all? I'll be back tomorrow.

But with not so many words. Phew. I had to get it all out. It's been much too long.

xo

Christi

{ So wise she is }

"...live simply, love muchly, and never forget what matters most." - Sheye Rosemeyer

Sheye Rosemeyer is one of the bazillion photographers that I follow {don't tell anyone, but she's one of my faves - definitely in the top 5}.  When I get the time to open up my Google reader, I can hardly wait to see if Sheye has a new post. Her photography is fab, but what grabs me is her HEART. I could listen to her words all day. Every day. She's utterly amazing. And she ALWAYS makes me stop and think... about what matters most, and how I want to spend my days.

There once was a princess named Ava. She tragically and unexpectedly went to heaven when she was just 3 years old. She got into a parked, hot car in the middle of the day, in the full sun. Once she got in, she couldn't get back out. She was in the car for a mere 30 minutes.

Sheye is Mommy to Ava.

And I want to celebrate Ava the Super Princess by passing along some info from Sheye...

[CLICK ON THE IMAGE TO VIEW IT LARGER]

[ I big heart you, Calvin ]

Little man answered the door in his big boy way and said, "Hi," with a wave. He had me right that minute.

Sweet. Chatty. Friendly. Calvin.

[ CLICK ON THE IMAGES TO VIEW THEM LARGER ]

He has this oh-so-serious look when he's thinking - or listening to his Mama talk. It looks something like this:

Are you smitten? I am.

About 5 minutes into my visit with him, he was telling me his whole name... "Calvin ____ _____, from Cincinnati Ohio." And then he told me his Mommy's name. And his Daddy's. I wanted to squeeze him.

Next up, my new little friend recited the entire Dr. Seuss foot book - "wet foot, dry foot, low foot, high foot..." as we turned the pages.  He knows all the words.  Mmmm hmmmm. 

Here's a glimpe of him with his favorite foot book...

 

 

I'm a sucker for all things little boy - the way they love their Mamas, the way they are just laid back and easy going (usually), the way they make their car/bus/airplane noises, the way they... I could go on and on. Check him out - flying his helicopter. I know you can hear him.

 

 

The session was over - and then he busted out the thumb. You know I got my camera right back on out. Lickity split. I had to.

 

Calvin and Mommy and Daddy - it was absolutely my pleasure. I loved every minute.

xo

Christi

[ They make my heart smile ]

It happened again.  Here was (notice the past tense) me: I, Christi Traster, do solemnly swear that I will not again be convinced to shoot a wedding. Mmmmm hmmmmmm. Not that it's not a wonderful and amazing thing to capture the love between two people on their wedding day - it is an absolute privilege....

....it's just not my thing, y'all. Well, I made it my thing for Jennifer and Patrick.  

Have you ever met a couple for the first time, and you look at them - you watch them interact - and you say to yourself, "Holy smokers...THIS is what it's all about." That's what happened when I met Jennifer and Patrick. They knocked my socks clean off. I'm not kidding - not a day has gone by since their wedding that I haven't thought of them with a smile on my face. They are the real deal. Beautiful on the inside - check 'em out on the outside...

[ CLICK ON THE IMAGES TO VIEW THEM LARGER ]

Jennifer is amazing. UHH-mazing. Sincere. Authentic. Down to earth. She's sunshine - bright and warm and just radiant. Joyful. Really. Okay - I'm gushing... let's move on, or I'll never finish this blog post. Ahem. 

I love love LOVE this next shot - it's so Jennifer (or Jennifuh, as Patrick's kids call her - oh, and don't get me started on how amazing she is with the kids):

First moments in her dress...

 

 

The next photo is one of my faves - Jennifer's sister looking on...

Patrick has a multitude of brothers - at least 4. But I think maybe 5? Such a fantastic, huge family with so much love for each other. I am for real, my friends - I cried multiple times throughout the day. O. M. Gooodness - the speeches at the reception? Oh, the speeches. My heart was a big ball of a sappy mess. Focus, Christi. You have a job to do here - stop with the sappy. I was so caught up in their happiness.

Patrick is a twin - his brother Paul gave an amazing speech at the reception. Not a dry eye...

Jennifer's Uncle surprised her (and everyone else, for that matter) with a horse and carriage ride with her Dad down the aisle. It was beautiful. Another big ball of sappy moment for me...

Isn't he handsome?

 

This next one may be my favorite of the day - I'm telling you. They're the real deal. I can't say enough about them.

And this next one is just plain HOT...

Jennifer and Patrick - the love between the two of you was evident from the day that I met you. It was an absolute honor to be a part of your wedding day. 

xxoo

Christi

 

{ Happy, happy and happy }

Buying fresh, locally grown produce from the Black Barn = happy.

Supporting local farmers and getting a ginormous bag of vegetables for $17 = happy.

Butternut squash soup, made from my ginormous bag of vegetables = happy.

Going to the dollar store and spending $1 on each of these beauty-full soaps = happy.

Both kids getting to pick out any toy that their little hearts desire = happy.

My heart when Mac says "you're the best Mommy ever!" after picking out said toy = happy.

My favorite pumpkin patchers picking out their very own pumpkin = happy.

No tantrum this year from the eldest *ahem* when we left the pumpkin patch = happy.

Roasting pumpkin seeds and watching their eyes light up = happy.

 

Happy is all around us - sometimes we just have to look for it.  Thankful, grateful me today for vegetables, pretty soap and my pumpkin patchers.  And God?  I just want to give you a shout out for providing the little things.  You're the coolest.

xoxo

{ I ♥big heart♥ you, G family }

I always know that a photo shoot with the G family is going to make me laugh, sing and do one million happy dances.  They're really that fabulous.  I adore them.  The kids?  They're sweet.  They're kind.  They're crazy and giggly and just plain fun.  Mama and Daddy G - you should be so proud.  You're raising some fine children (or is it rearing?  I feel like I can hear my 3rd grade teacher saying, "You rear a child - you raise a cow."  Oh well.).

Here they are, once again: Mia and Tyson - I could squeeze them right up...

Tyson is a Daddy's boy - he loves him some Daddy.  So stinking sweet.  Get a load of his cuteness:

And Mia?  She's pure sunshine. Pure. Sunshine.

G family, it was wonderful, once again.  Always a pleasure.  Thank you for spending a little of your Saturday with me - it was pretty darn dreamy. xoxo

 

{ Bim solla bim bam Bah solla do solla dim }

I know you just saw the title to this post and thought "whoooptie dooo, she's finally lost her mind."  Nope.  Mind intact.  Just want to share a little love and happiness.  Because that's what I'm all about. ;)

When my kids were babies (hmmm, maybe 1 & 2?), we used to sing - scratch that - Mommy used to sing this song...

High in a tree a dickie bird... (sat)
Below him sat a furry black... (cat)
He said for dinner I shall have... (you)
Then all at once that dickie bird... (flew)

Bim solla bim bam

Bah solla do solla dim

Auntie Sharon ♥♥♥ taught it to us, and it was a hit!  It was a catchy tune, albeit a little crazy.  Fast forward a couple of years, and my boy remembers.  I was shocked.  Here is video of Auntie Sharon and Mac singing the bim solla song tonight.  Warms my heart.  And my heart needs a warmin' on this cold rainy night. Brrrrrrr.

Bim Solla #1 from Christi Traster on Vimeo.

Bim solla #2 from Christi Traster on Vimeo.

{ My Dad cried }

How did I not know about Christian the lion, the internet sensation?  I'm probably so out of the loop - and y'all have seen this story 14 times already, but geeeeesh.  Talk about wham-o bam-o emotional-o.  I am an animal lover (sort of over the top about my animals - Bogart Charles the princess cat, Izzy the alpha cat and Daisy, our English bulldog - she's the QUEEN), but if this story doesn't get you good :::sniff sniff::: I'm not sure what will.

So... the kids and I went over to my Dad's tonight for a visit and a trip to the downtown pizza joint.  We got there, and my brother was playing a youtube video that I caught the end of.  I thought, what in the Sam Hill IS this?  An old, grainy video with the cheesiest of songs playing (um, think Whitney Houston from the early 90s - yep).  Then it had me.  Oh my heart.  Christian the lion had me at hello.  Oh yes.  Yes he did. 

Ummmm...my Dad cried.  Yep.

The MSNBC story is here - and here are a few images of him.  There even is a movie about the infamous Christian.  Who knew?

 

 

And here's the video - put your earplugs in, my lovelies.  Unless you are a Whitney lover. ;)

{ Cravables = pure delight }

Remember this beautiful Mommy-to-be? 

Well, my lovelies, she has started her own business.  And you know I'm all up and holllllaaaaa-ing when I am inspired by a woman/wife/mommy/business owner.  Christy has started a deeeliciously yummy business called Cravables, featuring custom cakes, cupcakes, pastries, cookies and more!  Doesn't that sound like heaven?  Lemme tell you, friends - her cupcakes are to die for.  No jokes.  I ain't jivin'. 

My little Lily bug turned 3 recently, and I ordered up some Cravables cupcakes.  All I told Christy (a.k.a. amazing cupcake maker extroidinare) was that Lily was all about being a princess - I said go on, girlfriend.  Work some of your cupcake magic.  And that she did.

Um...yeah.  Unbelievable.  Vanilla bean cupcake yumminess with vanilla bean icing dreaminess.  I'm telling you - I tasted one, and I said no way.  Noooooooo way.  No way is it even possible to be so in love with a cupcake. ;)

Get outta town adorable, right?

Lily was over the moon about all of the princess goodies on top of "her cupcakes," as she called them: sleeping beauty crowns, glass slippers, princess wands, and on and on.  So fun.  And so perfect for my girl's special birthday day.  Thank you, Cravables, for putting your heart into what you do.  Your passion shines.  Really.

You know I have to throw a few photos in of the birthday girl, right?

Sporting her new princess pajamas, princess umbrella and some very kissable toes.  She's holding up 3 fingers on each hand.  I'm 3 now, she says.  All the time.  Daily.

 

 

Mama + my girl....I'm smitten.  She's so amazing.  And she's just 3.  ♥

 

 

Little giggle bug - I {heart} you, my girl.

So sleeeeeepy.  And yes, we love a paci in our house ::Ahem:: No, not ashamed.  We will give them to the paci fairy soon.  Shooting for 2010. ;)

The party wore big brother man out, too...

Awake and ready to blow dry My Little Pony's hair...

Awwww my happy girl ♥ I love you more than life xoxo

You can find Cravables' facebook fan page here - go on over, peeps!  Check her out!

P.S. I'm shooting a wedding in just over 2 weeks, and Christy is doing the desserts - more fun Cravables photos to come!

{ The 3 Bs }

Be moved. Be inspired. Be thankful. Today.

xxoo

{ Holiday Mini Sessions }

It's Holiday Mini Session time, y'all!  You've been asking - and now....ta da!  It's finally here!

Here's the scoop:

Saturday, October 3rd - location TBD (Ault Park again, peeps?!  Any objections?)

Each session will be 45 minutes and is limited to families of 4 or less (for each add'l person, please add $25, for a maximum of 6 people).  The session fee is $100, and is required to be paid in full to reserve your spot.

Approximately 10-14 days after your session, you will be provided a password to access your own personal online viewing and ordering gallery.  Your gallery will contain 10-20 proofs to choose from.  Your online gallery will be available for viewing/ordering for 3 days.

Additionally, Mini Session clients will receive an additional 10%-50% off of add'l prints and/or products, based on the package that you choose.

Phhheeew - I know that was information overload.  So, let's get to the pretties!

Here are the smashingly beautiful 2009 cards to choose from - I'm so excited!  

[ CLICK ON THE IMAGES TO VIEW THE CARDS LARGER ]

Just a little info about the cards - they are 5x7 press-printed, double-sided cards.  Fonts and verbiage are customizable, for the most part.  They are really amazing!  Oh, and of course, they come with envelopes. :)

Now.....for the book that comes with package THREE....are you ready?

 

* Photos courtesty of Angie Monson of Simplicity Photography

Pretty darn great, huh?

So, here's the skinny:

[ CLICK ON THE IMAGE TO VIEW THE INFO LARGER ]

Spots are limited - and I expect them to fill quickly.  Call or email me if you would like more information, or to reserve your spot!

xxoo

Christi

P.S. The backup/rain date is the following Saturday, October 11th.

[ Little ladybug Leah ]

Remember this post?  Well...sweet little cupcake is already over a month old - and I could love on her and her sweet baby smelling skin for hours.  Her little rosebud lips and perfect nose and bright eyes and soft, downy hair....Mmmmm.  Nicky, it warms my heart to see what an amazing mother you are, already.  I didn't expect anything less.  I knew you would immediately be THAT kind of Mommy.  Watching you with Leah makes my heart happy.  Very happy.

Without further ado, here she is. Sweet. Cuddly. Leah.

Leah was sooooo good for our session.  I was a little nervous - she was a little old for a "newborn" shoot.  But she was a little trooper.  Muuuuuuah.  Love her.  To pieces.

What about those puckery lips?!  Mmmmmmm.  I want to kiss them.

I love this next series of 3...

Daddy with Leah - so sweet, isn't she?

Lastly - I think this one could be my favorite.  It was at the end of our session - and she was wide awake and ready for action.  Lovely, isn't she?

[ Charity: Water ]