Joining a MOPS group is one of the best decisions I've ever made. I've written many times about finding a MOPS or MOMS group nearby. I've shared how it became a lifeline for me as I transitioned to a stay at home mom and an adoptive mom. I needed friends. I needed...
This post was sponsored by SwimWays as part of an Ambassador Program for Influence Central and all opinions expressed in my post are my own. Here in the desert, it is time to jump in the pool! The weather is warm and the sky is blue. I'm so thankful for our pool days....
In about 10 days, Julia will be home for the summer. What a strange, surreal, wonderful thing to write. There are bursts of growth that happen in every life and marriage. Somewhere in the top ten most memorable milestones lives the year your first child leaves home....
Disclaimer: I was invited to a complimentary media screening of Marvel Studios AVENGERS: ENDGAME. Earlier today, I had the privilege of watching the grand conclusion to 22 films. Yes, writing that makes me tear up. I am still processing the full range of...
For Mary Alice's birthday, she asked for tea time. My mother has been collecting tea cups and saucers since before I was born. I can remember searching antique stores and flea markets every year for her birthday and mother's day for the perfect addition to her...
Dear little Miss Mary Alice, As your father, writing on a very fancy blog, watching you wear a very fancy dress after a very fancy party, I am inclined to write as a Victorian. Therefore, I will do so, forthwith! I write to you today on the occasion of your fourth...
Very soon, you will outgrow together bathtimes. Each night, when I say 'bathtime?', you both run for the stairs ready to play with boats and bubbles. Some nights are peaceful as you both unwind. Some nights are crazy as water splashes everywhere and you both get into...
Today I heard the most beautiful parenting talk, given by Tricia Hoyt. She is a long time friend with the wisdom of growing four children into adulthood. She gave loads of amazing and practical tips, all with her enthralling Irish accent - which I'm certain gives her...
There is a plaque on my desk that says, "share your story, to set someone else free." My sweet friend, Cindy, gave that to me years ago and encouraged me in my writing. I look at that plaque every day and wonder why I don't write more about our days. In July 2017, I...
Dearest Sebastian, you are two! You are just absolutely amazing. I cannot imagine our family without you. You are so kind and compassionate. When someone is upset or hurt, you go sit next to them and pat their back and give them a hug. It is so incredibly endearing to...
Disclaimer: I was invited to a complimentary media screening of Marvel Studios CAPTAIN MARVEL. On Monday, I had the pleasure of being the coolest mom in the galaxy. I surprised Nate and picked him up a few minutes early from school to head to see Captain Marvel. We...
Never Marginalize Always show dignity Always include Goodness that sounds like a tall order. We are the science lab for our children. Imagine having so much freedom in Christ that you are empty and liberated to be compassionate, non-judgemental, loving, patient,...
Last week, our desert received a beautiful blanket of white snow. Now, I know this sounds silly to those of you up north, but you know that feeling when you see a cactus in person and you haven't seen one in a very long time? Yup, it's like that. We were giddy. People...
This is my beautiful friend, Jinny and her family. The first time she and I met in person was the day before her precious little girl was born. And now, my Christmas card season just doesn't start until I take their family's pictures. Jinny and I share so many fun...
In honor of Valentine's Day, I wanted to share the latest wedding I photographed. Oh this wedding. It was intimate and sweet and dreamy and so very full of love. George and Katherine, I wish you a very special and wonderful Valentine's Day!
When college students come home, you may just ask for a photoshoot. And when you do the photoshoot, you might insist that everyone gets individual photos, too. And while they are waiting for each other's turn, it might digress into absolute chaos. And for a few...
After 10 months of research and prayer, I decided to write down my concerns regarding the enneagram. I pray you find the research insightful and helpful in deciding how you will approach this currently popular tool. A few months ago, I called Brian excitedly. He knows...
Disclaimer: I sent a copy of The Nutcracker and the Four Realms for review. It is my honor and privilege to share my thoughts on Disney with you. #DisneyPartner #DisneySMMC From the Studio: Inspired by E.T.A. Hoffman’s classic tale and the beloved ballet “The...
Nate's winter formal was a few weeks ago and he let me take a few pictures when he got home. Goodness, he is such a handsome young man. This year, Nate has stepped into the role of the oldest at home. He stepped into that role with grace and confidence. Watching him...
Do you choose a word of the year? Since 2008, I’ve chosen a word to reflect on throughout the year. *The idea of a word of the year was first introduced to me by my dear friend Heather. Once upon a time, she had a lovely blog full of beautiful inspiration. I’m very...
I've always wanted to give street photography a real shot. I'm usually too intimidated by the thought of picking up my camera and pointing it towards a crowd, but it seemed easier in a foreign country. I was so inspired by Nancy and Ashley and their street photography...