Bobby + Steph – Altoona Engagement Photography

Inspiration was the word that came to mind when I met Stephanie.

Her joy inspired me.

Her life inspired me.

Her beauty inspired me.

When Stephanie showed Bobby what type of ring she liked, though engagement was far off, Bobby went out the next day and bought the ring.  And then he kept it hidden in a safe place… for a year and a half.

I guess you could say Stephanie inspired Bobby.

Rock Solid is the phrase that comes to mind when I think of Bobby.

He’s her balance, her sounding board.  He’s kindness, steadiness, and persistence all rolled into one.

Stephanie and Bobby, I loved photographing your engagement pictures and can’t wait for the wedding!

Stephanie, you are absolutely stunning.

There was so much love going on in this session.

Here’s Marvin the wonder pup.  I enjoyed having him in the session.

Stephanie can’t help but smile.

We found this bridge over the train tracks.  The light was AMAZING!  I could have photographed here all day.

More of the amazing bridge.

Thanks for a great day, Steph and Bobby!  See you in August.

[…] might remember Stephanie and Bobby from their awesome engagement session.  Their wedding day was just as […]

5 reason’s I loved Dave and Jeannette’s wedding – Altoona, PA wedding photographer

1.  The love story – 8 years in the making.  What made her notice him?  Margaret told her he was a good guy.  Plus he had really gorgeous long hair.  That never hurts.  When did he notice her?  It was at Margaret’s wedding – and he couldn’t get his eyes off of Jeannette in her red dress.

2.  50 or so people singing “Cecilia” at the tippy top of their lungs, complete with air guitars and air microphones.

3.  The mini photo shoot with the 91 year old great uncle.  Any time I get to photograph someone in their 90’s, it’s a great day.

4.  Can we say extended family?  At the reception I like to ask people how they know the bride and groom.  Most of the guests were relatives.  I love love love big extended families.

5.  The 5 year old flower girl who walked up to me at the end of the wedding and said, “goodbye, I love you.”  And then gave me a big bear hug.  Thank you, little Rose, for your hospitality.

Primary election day – Altoona, PA

My dear friend Jason Ibrahim died unexpectantly in Febuary at the age of 29.

Today is primary election day.  A year ago today I was organizing pollworkers and a victory party at my house for Jason’s bid for Altoona city council.  This year is so very different.  Jason is with his Maker, and I miss him.

I read a book to his children the other day and wondered, “should I skip the page about Daddy putting them to bed, or read it.”  And then I miss him.

I read a new blog post by my dear friend, Elizabeth, Jason’s wife, as she talks about her “crash course class through grief and life as a single mom to three children under the age of four.”  And then I miss him.

I come across old campaign literature and signs from last year.  I remember those times, some of the most fun times of my life.  And I miss him.

I watch an episode of the Walton’s or any quirky old movie.  And I miss him.

I watch his oldest daughter laugh; I realize I’m looking at the spitting image of Jason.  And I miss him.

I really don’t know how to end this blog post, but to say there’s been lots of missing this year.  Lots of tears.  Lots of memories coming up when I least expect them.  Primary election day wasn’t the first of this barrage of memories, and I know it won’t be the last.

A Hard Day « Upside Down Class - May 19, 2010 - 3:05 pm

[…] was a hard day for me.  This afternoon, I was blessed to read that it was a hard day for my friend, too.  It is good to know that I am not crying alone. Categories: Uncategorized […]

Justin + Katrina – Hollidaysburg, PA wedding photographer

Last winter he left her a note where to meet him.

She followed the note.  And followed the path of daisies he laid on the cold December ground.  With shivering hands and flushed cheeks, Katrina’s heart overflowed with warmth as she said, “Yes. yes. yes.”

Today we trecked back up that path to “the spot” at Chimney Rocks Park.  Justin and Katrina told me their unbelievable story.  Already they have been persevering in sickness and in health.  There is beauty beyond words or photographs in their determination to make love triumph over illness.

Katrina and Justin, your love for one another and your bravery through trials inspires me.  I am honored to be able to capture a glimpse of your story.  Thank you.  Thank you.  Thank you.

Mother’s Day – Altoona, PA Family Photography

My 4 dear children,

Today is Mother’s Day.

For the first 22 years of my life, this was the day for celebrating my lovely mother.  I can’t say enough to you about the brave, gentle, sacrificing, beautiful woman that I call Momma.  Her legacy lives on in you.

In 2002 Mother’s Day changed for me forever.  In 2002 the blessing of motherhood was bestowed upon me.  I will never be the same.

And that leads to today…

Today I will remember waking up with Anya snuggling up next to me in my bed.

Today I will remember Josiah’s repeated kisses on my lips as I tried to sing in church.

Today I will remember Timmy requesting “boo, boo” and climbing into my lap with a book.

Today I will remember the broad smile on Daniella’s face after demonstrating her new gymnastics move.

Today I will remember celebrating the magnificence of God’s plan when He gave you 4 children to me.

Most say, “Happy Mother’s Day.”  And indeed happiness is a significant part of this day.  But it is only a part.  Words fail me, and the depth of emotion and commitment that comes with this most sacred role cannot be expressed.

I love you, my children.

With all my heart,

Momma

F a c e b o o k