Worth it.

My friend Ashley always talked about how she had started her journey into photography just wanting a good camera to be able to take good pictures of her kids. While that is I'm sure that is the beginning of a lot of photographer's journey, it wasn't mine. She shared that her business was a huge part of her life, her family and kids were numero uno. (Ashley, do you like that espanol I threw in there?? ;) )
While I wanted to say the same thing I didn't know if I truly would mean it, so I refrained. I remember sitting talking over one of our many days together this summer and telling her that if I didn't have the business I would feel lost, that I feel like I was CREATED for this.

Then tonight, while editing grainy, poorly lit, crappy white balanced images of my kids, on the verge of tears.....I got it.

Ashley, I get it. :)

I've had an amazing year, and hope for another in 2013, but even if my journey through photography ended on the business side right now, it was worth it because I'm able to capture my boys in moments like these, better than I would have before I started.

Without being too cheesy, I think our careers as photographers are unique in the fact that if you allow it to be, it can be such a blessing....

- a blessing to the client who wants to remember the beautiful season of life they are in
- a blessing to the viewer as they are inspired creatively, spiritually, and relationally
- a blessing to the Lord by giving Him the glory for the work we create
- a blessing to you as you are able to capture moments in your own life that are so dear and precious to you.


I do feel like this is what the Lord created me to do, but in the big picture, I know that even if this was it, it was worth it.

Happy Tuesday to everyone.

Our Tytus is ONE!

I had my second son in the middle of crazy season for my work. Therefore, his post with his very own year photos got delayed and I am just now getting to post these.

Our sweet Ty, now almost 14 months is turning into his own little person. His little smile can light up a room and of course, even strangers comment on his chubby cheeks. Who can resist? He seems to be very observant, especially of his older brother. Currently, they are bff's and I LOVE it. They play together, even at such a young age and I cannot get enough of it. :)


At a little past one year, here are my favorite things about you Ty, our sweet baby. - you kick your feet back and forth when you get really excited and squeal so loudly - you have yet to crawl. Scooting is your means of getting around - you took your first steps at Tata's house on 12/5/12 - you love imitating your brother and playing in the tent with him - you are ready to be out of the bath within 5 minutes of getting in - snuggling is rare, but you prefer it with the lights out and at bedtime, or in the middle of the night - peek-a-boo is a favorite and a way to get you to settle down in the car - you hate socks and shoes - you love giving kisses to mommy - when music plays you spin in circles in the middle of the floor. - you are so serious in public - swinging makes you giggle and laugh - sometimes you laugh out loud in your sleep - you enjoy playing catch - you help put toys away - you love putting things back together - you're a great eater - you snort sometimes when you laugh


We love you so very much and can't imagine life without you Ty.

Tytus : 3 months Young

This weather has been amazing. I took advantage of the gorgeous weather yesterday and shot Tytus' 3 month photos. I can't believe how big he's getting.



At his last appointment he weighed in at 13.5 lbs! We're loving seeing smiles on a daily basis. He's such a sweet boy.



Tytus at 3 months loves to be talked to. He smiles and scrunches up his nose when we talk to him. He's also very ticklish. I love making him laugh.




Tytus is starting to pay quite a bit of attention to J. He often smiles at him and watches him play with toys and wrestle with Stephen. Jaden has been a great big brother, helping with getting diapers, sharing blankies, and giving him lots of kisses and gentle pats on the head.





In the midst of the craziness of having 2 under 2, I'm trying to savor these precious moments of my boys at this age because I know I'll never get it back.

Tytus Kent : 10.22.11

Allow me to introduce to the blogging world:



Tytus Kent
8 lbs. 8 oz.
20 "
10/22/11
5:31 a.m.

The past few weeks have been busy and drowsy at the same time. Having two under two is quite the challenge at times, but so completely worth it. Jaden is adjusting well. He is slowly becoming aware of his baby brother and often points and says "Ta" when Tytus is crying. He brings tries to put the paci in his mouth and shares his blankies. I think I'm in for a real treat, full of sweet moment shared between brothers when he gets a little older.

When Tytus was first born I really thought that he looked like Jaden.


As the weeks go by though, I'm convinced that Tytus is looking a little different. I'm certain you'll always be able to tell they are brothers though.

It's hard to believe that he is going to be a month old in just a few days. In the midst of the tired evenings, poopy diapers, constant feedings, building block monsters and coloring with our toddler, I'm trying to savor every second I can of this season of life because I'll never get it back.

Walk In the Park with DSAGSL

One of my favorite memories from college is from my freshman year. I was a student at Southwest Baptist University playing softball with lots of hardcore Cardinals fans. That year they went to the playoffs, and we drove up to St. Louis to see the game. Did we have tickets? no. Did we stand on top of trashcans outside of the stadium and peek through the fences? yes. Did we drive 4 hours back to school at 11pm? absolutely. A good time was had by all. :) St. Louis is an amazing baseball town, and I love it.

Since we've moved back to the area, I admit I've been slacking on watching games. Being away from it for a few years (and having a Braves fan for a husband....gag!) and just getting busy it sometimes slips my mind that I can now actually watch them play! I am thrilled to know that they are in the playoffs and even more excited that Red October is upon us!!! Last weekend was my first trip to Busch this year, and it was by FAR the most awesome experience I've ever had.

This past year has been filled with lots of great experiences. Last Saturday I had another amazing opportunity to partner with the Down Syndrome Association of Greater St. Louis for their "Walk In the Park" event at Busch stadium. 3,800 individuals, family members, and friends of those affected by down syndrome rallied together at the stadium to walk the field and celebrate the lives of those with down syndrome.



Special thanks to my friend Ashley Henna for the opportunity! Ash, you did a fabulous job on the event! It came together wonderfully!









While walking the field, everyone had the opportunity to drop personal letters of thanks and appreciation to Albert and his family in special boxes at home plate. DSAGSL definitely loves the Pujols family!















Many of you may not know, but the Pujols family is very involved with DSAGSL. At the game, DSAGSL presented him with an award of appreciation for all the Pujols family does for the community.



I admit I was a little starstruck as I stood just inches away from Albert Pujols. Good thing I had a camera in my hand and working or I would have probably been looking for a sharpie for him to sign my shirt :)

Albert's kids are adorable! "Daddy! Daddy!" they shouted as he came out on the field, pointing at him. :)





I loved watching the kids take the field! I know it's an experience they will never forget.













Hi Theriot. Yes, I'm a very pregnant girl taking your picture during the Star Spangled Banner.

Play ball!!!

And this is about the time that I was getting yelled at to get into the holding room because I was on the field too long, which is probably why some of you saw me walking off the field on the news that evening. Hey, when opportunity knocks...


I highly doubt that I'll ever be able to have an experience like this again and I am so grateful for such an amazing opportunity!!! Now lets go REDBIRDS!!!