Still Little Lady Laila

Her cute little lips, sparkling eyes, and cute little walk bring me joy. I met Laila when she was just a few days old. Since then, I've taken her pictures a few times, and she never fails to warm my heart. She's a daddy's little girl. I can see her playing in mommy's jewelry box in a few years, if she hasn't already. She is Little Lady Laila.

Humble Man

Mrs. Erickson was my 6th grade teacher. I never knew her husband very well. But something about his smile that day of family pictures makes me all "warm and fuzzy" inside. It was such a proud smile. A humble smile. A loving smile. But then again, why wouldn't have such an expression? All of his family was together. And looking oh so beautiful together.

Not a Fan

Mason's not a fan of the camera, he would rather turn his head and run the other way. But whether he likes it or not, I'm a big fan of him. He's quite the charmer with his flashy blue eyes and loving smile. Mason is soon to be a big brother. I'm willing to bet the next one has some flashy blue eyes as well. Best wishes Hayes family.

Marley and Lily Rule the Roost

There's no doubt about it, Marley and Lily, the 2 grandchildren of the Danilson group, rule the roost. When these to precious lil gals get older, I think they could probably ask grandma for anything, and receive it. But after taking one look at them, I probably wouldn't be able to say no either. I bet you wouldn't stand a chance either...

Wet Toelle's with Towels

We picked the hottest day in August to take pictures. The Toelle's, who came fully prepared with towels to whip their brow, were glistening with both sweat and happiness. Gary and Joyce were so happy to have everyone together, and just beamed with pride when the told me about each of their grandkids. Through the sweat, I was delighted to capture the moment for them.

Bitten by the Love Bug

I've never experienced mosquitos this thick. As they buzzed by my ears, Whitney and Ryan kissed. They swarmed my head, Whitney and Ryan held hands. They too were bitten. But bitten by another bug... the love bug.

They are such a pleasant, down-to-earth couple. By being around them just a few hours, I can tell how much they adore each other. Their love for each other radiates. Whitney looks at Ryan with smitten eyes, and Ryan just smiles back. They are pretty cute.

However, I don't know what I'm looking forward to more in November - shooting their wedding, or no mosquitos. ;)

Blistering Sun

The day was so hot it warmed my heart. I love these two.

Peace

Everything's changed. The boots in the shed are no longer his. His pickup sits lonely. The cattle no longer fed by him. Can good come from this? Perhaps. Is this a sad thing? Absolutely.

On a recent trip home, it really hit me what "cherish your memories with him" really means. Missing my dad after five years, I look back at what has all changed. Some for the good- I close my eyes and dream of him at peace, watching the sun set everyday with his feet kicked up. What a life...

Some for the bad- my family has clashing views. While some may not be at peace, I am, knowing that the matter is out of my control and life moves on. Life changes. Life is 10% what happens to you, and 90% how you react to it. If one chooses the non-peaceful route, then forever unsettled the heart will be.

Traveling back to Omaha, looking in my rearview mirror, I was left breathless with a tear in my eye. The stunning sunset was a sign. A sign of peace.

At peace he is. And so am I.

Special Kind of Love

You know a couple is in love when you don't have to tell them to kiss. And so was true of Dawn and Mike on their wedding day. Their love for each other radiated that day. It's my hope that their love continues to grow through the years. Congrats Pielsticks!