last week-end i traveled to napa valley, ca to attend a photography retreat with other photographers from around the country.  napcp  (national association of professional child photographers) is an association that i feel so lucky to be a part of.  it was  wonderful time.  i left feeling relaxed, inspired and so blessed to be part of an industry that is filled with so many wonderful individuals.  it is so great to go to a retreat and not only learn, but leave with many new friendships (old and new) which will last forever.  while we were there, we had the opportunity to take photos of what i think were some of the most beautiful children.  i know their parents will never read this post, but i could not get over how sweet and polite these children were. i met such lovely children and families and it only reaffirms why i love my job so much.  i have to admit, i am a bit envious of all you napa photographers who have scenery like you will see below, which you get to use to photograph.  (whine and sigh…)  :)  here are a few of my favorites.

photographers AND parents, please take a peek at the napcp webpage.  http://www.napcp.com/blog.php/

a friend of mine sent me this you tube video last night.  i love it…it is a simple message and beautiful and so so true.

and, you will have tears all over your cheeks.  as my friend said…take 7 quiet minutes to listen to this…it is a good one.

my grace is 4 today and  i am filled with emotion.  i am sad that 4 years could go by so quickly, but excited to see what each new year will bring for her.  my heart bursts with feelings of proudness when i look at her and she is only 4.  i could of course go on and on because i am so in love with this little girl, but i end by saying how lucky i feel to have been given this perfect little being four years ago today.  we were filled with amazement when we looked into her teeny little eyes and i am still filled with amazement every time i look at her. happy birthday my sweet grace. i love you with alllll of my heart.

my sweet friend tracy just opened a new shop on etsy.    for those of you who have not shopped on etsy.com, you must take a peek.  it is a wonderful site…all homemade products.  i LOVE it!!  anyway…so, tracy has the most adorable baby items including burp clothes, bibs, onesies and more!

All peTal + PERRY products are: 
-designed and handmade in Denver, CO 
-adorable and trendy for baby and those who love them!
-100% machine washable (preferably wash in cold and tumble dry low, iron cotton side if needed)
-pre-washed for durability and quality assurance
-cutely packaged with tissue, coordinating ribbon and tag – for gift giving or just everyday!

take a peek!!!!!  http://www.etsy.com/shop/petalandperry

and, a side note…you will LOVE tracy.  she is a peach and will take good care of you.

one more thing!  if you end up purchasing from tracy, give me a shout and let me know!  i will give you a free 5 x 7 at your next booked session!

here are a few of her adorable products:

i really cannot believe that this little sweet pea is already one.  it seems just like yesterday that i got a call from his mommy telling me that he had arrived safe and sound.  it was a joyous day and i was so happy that he was here.  :)  the year has flown by and this beautiful, blue eyed boy is a perfect mix of his wonderful parents whom i adore.   happy birthday fin…i wish you many, many more happy birthdays to come.