Melissa Jordan Photography

Kristin and Nathaniel | Nappanee, IN Wedding Photographer

2012-01-26T21:38:00.000-05:00

Last summer I had the privilege of being the second shooter for Ruthie Eileen Photography at a beautiful wedding at Amish Acres. What a great day! The HUGE Wedding party was so much fun, the venue was amazing and all the details that Kristin pulled together for their special day were phenomenal. (I had a super hard time narrowing down my detail shots because there were so many to choose from.) I can't wait to shoot at Amish Acres again!

Jenny and Jared | Fort Wayne, IN Wedding Photographer

2011-11-15T17:36:00.000-05:00

Sometimes love is so evident you can see it. That's how it was at Jared and Jenny's wedding. The love they have for eachother was visible on their faces, in their laughter, in the words they spoke; both the meaningful and the playful. You could tell that they just get eachother and are both so happy to have found one another. Looking back at their photos, I see it all over again, I am so lucky to have been there to document this kind of love.

Special thanks to Chris from Nico Studios for coming along as 2nd shooter!

Wedding Details:
Ceremony and reception venue and catering: The Orchid Events and Catering.
Flowers and reception decor: One of A Kind Events
Cake: Courtney' Bakery.
Ceremony sound and reception D.J.: Megasound

One of my favorite moments of the day was captured below and it happened within the first hour that I was there! Jared gave Jenny a handwritten card, her favorite perfume and a gorgeous pearl necklace and earrings from Bowers Jewelry as a wedding gift. Love.

I adore the image of the first dance above captured by my 2nd shooter, Chris. The shot below was my view of the first dance.

Jared and Jenny, you both deserve a lifetime of happiness. Keep loving eachother like you do and I'm sure you'll get it! Thank you so much for giving me the honor of photographing this wonderful day in your life!

My Memories Digital Scrapbook Software Giveaway

2011-11-04T09:39:00.002-04:00

I have to be honest, I've never scrapbooked before!!! BUT after trying out My Memories Digital Scrapbooking Software for the very first time I literally made the page below in about 10 minutes! It was so easy to use and the varieties are practically endless. Seriously, anyone could start creating their own quality scrapbooks, cards, calendars and more within minutes of owning this software. You can be as simple or as extravagant as you like!

One lucky reader is going to win their very own software from My Memories where you can create your own digital scrapbooks, cards, calendars and more. You can enter up to 4 times, here's how:
1. You have to enter this one first for any other entry to count. Go to www.mymemories.com and take a look around then post a comment on this post with your favorite thing in the store.
2. "Like" My Memories on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/MyMemories/ then post a comment here telling me that you liked their page. (Or that you were already a liker)
3. "Like" Melissa Jordan Photography on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/#!/melissa.jordan.photography then post a comment here telling me that you liked my page. (Or that you were already a liker)
4. Post a link to this blog entry on your facebook page then comment here with the link to your link. :)

Here's the best part, even if you don't win the giveaway you're still a winner just for visiting because you get $10 discount off the purchase of the My Memories Suite Scrapbook software and a $10 coupon for the MyMemories.com store - $20 value! Just use this coupon code at checkout STMMMS81206

Contest ends Tuesday, November 8 at 10 p.m. EDT. Winner will be contacted and announced by Wednesday at noon. GOOD LUCK, everyone!

"B" Family | Warsaw, IN Photographer

2011-11-01T14:32:00.000-04:00

Valentina and Nate | Winona Lake, IN Wedding Photographer

2011-10-14T07:30:00.000-04:00

Nate and Valentina were married on an unusually warm and beautiful October day, one that they completely enjoyed. Maybe they were feeling nervous, but you couldn't tell, they seemed completely at ease and just happy to be joined together as husband and wife. It was an absolute joy for me to be there with them.

The amazing light in Westminster Hall at Grace College made my job super easy!
Flowers by Creative Floral Designs.
Brides hairstyle by Expressions Salon and Day Spa.
Catering by Penguin Point.
Cake by Chris Fannin.
It was a pleasure to work with their videographer, Jake from Vibe Productions.
Special thanks to Curtis DeRoos for 2nd shooting!

Congratulations, Nate and Valentina! Best wishes for a lifetime of love and happiness!

Jenny and Jared | Fort Wayne, IN Engagement Photographer

2011-10-05T10:06:00.002-04:00

Love doesn't make the world go round. Love is what makes the ride worthwhile.

-Franklin P. Jones

Congratulations on your engagement, Jenny and Jared! I can't wait for your wedding next month!

Megan and Zach | Warsaw, IN Wedding Photographer

2011-10-04T10:31:00.002-04:00

I am so excited to share Megan and Zach's wedding! First of all the ceremony venue was Warsaw Community Church with Pastor Denny Wilson performing the ceremony, my own church and my own pastor, it kinda makes a girl feel right at home. But mostly because Megan and Zach are two of the most terrific people you'll meet. Together, they're dynamic, I love the energy and passion they have for life and for eachother.

Megan's make up was tastefully and beautifully done by Jamie Plack of The Vein Institute.

Cheyenne Blackford did a beautiful job with the bridesmaids and flower girl's hair.

Cheyenne and Jamie worked together on Megan's beautiful wedding day hairstyle.

Megan and Zach chose to have a first look before the ceremony. I can't stress how much I love it when my couples decide to do this, they are so much more relaxed the rest of the day and it leaves plenty of time for being with their guests after the ceremony. Special thanks to Curtis Deroos for 2nd shooting and capturing the photo on the left while I got the shot on the right below.

The cafe at WCC makes a lovely and intimate setting for the ceremony.

The flowers, designed by Lisa Robinson of Iris Trail were perfect.

Tippecanoe Lake Country Club is a splendid venue for an elegant wedding reception. Megan chose the theme Vintage Wine because she and Zach love to visit vineyards and go to wine tastings. I love the reception decor Iris Trail put together based on Megan's theme, it was stunning.

The Cake Lady did a fantastic job on a simple and beautiful cake.

J & S Van Lue DJ Service kept the party going and the energy high when the food and cake were finished.

Megan and Zach, thank you for allowing me to be part of your wedding. It was a spectacular day for a really wonderful couple and I am honored to capture it for you.

Kate and Miles | Northern Indiana Wedding Photography

2011-09-28T16:15:00.002-04:00

Kate and Miles are married! If I had to think of one word to describe their wedding it would be family. Kate explained how close she is to all of her extended family so everyone ended up being such a big part of her wedding. Her family catered the reception themselves, the DJ was a friend of the family, the cake was made by one of Kate's high school teachers. Everyone seemed so tight knit, it was a pleasure to witness their closeness.

Special thanks to Christine Barker for joining me as 2nd shooter for the day!

I adored Kate's bouquet designed and arranged by Jessica at Thode Floral. It was simple and elegant and had the perfect amount of texture.

The vintage car below was the ACTUAL car that Kate's parents rode away in after their wedding. It's so great that Kate and Miles were able to use the same car

Gorgeous reception decor by Glass Slipper Weddings.

Kate and Miles, It was a beautiful day for a wonderful couple. Best wishes for a joyful future and a lifetime of love.

Tiffany and Tshombe | Indianapolis Wedding Photographer

2011-09-26T15:57:00.019-04:00

Tiffany and Tshombe had a beautiful (and HOT) wedding. The ceremony and reception were both at The Bridgewater Club in Carmel, An absolutely spectacular venue! I loved all the little details, especially the peacock feather theme.

Stunning hair and make up by Karen Hall and Company.

Special thanks to my 2nd shooter for the day Christine Barker , who grabbed the awesome shot below while I was getting the shot above.

The skies were really as blue as that picture below on their wedding day, I promise I do not add any color pop to my photos!

A fantastic wedding party!! Notice the bridesmaids clutches, there are peacock feathers on them, so lovely.

A shot of the reception area before the guests entered. Did I mention how spectacular The Bridgewater Club is?

The cake was made by the brides MOTHER!! She did an amazing job, it was beautiful and delicious.

My favorite moment of the day was when Tiffany read something she had been working on in Tshiluba (Tshombe's families native language) to his mom (or the loving phrase they use, mamu). I don't know what she said but there wasn't a dry eye in the room, mine included

DJ Mike Cambell of Sound Advice was one of my favorites, ever. Am I allowed to say that? It's true, he was fantastic!

Another fun detail was the photobooth by Happy Snaps! They had all kinds of hats, glasses, boas and signs for guests to wear then the bride and groom and the guests each got to keep a copy of each photo. Here's me and Christine... :)

All the guests received sky lanterns to release that night. In spite of the humidity holding them down for a while it was so beautiful to watch all those lights floating away.

Congratulations, Tiffany and Tshombe! Thank you so much for allowing me to be a part of your wedding day, it was truly an honor!

Tom Roy

2011-09-20T18:29:00.004-04:00

I recently had the opportunity to photograph Tom Roy, who spent a brief time in the S.F. Giants Organization, is a former chaplain for the Chicago White Sox, has spoken several times at the Green Bay Packers Chapel, author of Released and founder and president of UPI (Unlimited Potential Incorporated), a ministry towards and for equipping pro baseball players in sharing the gospel. Tom is so passionate about this ministry and it's so deeply rooted in him, he is gifted in and available for speaking. Click here to read Tom's blog. Click here to puchase Tom's book from Amazon.

Honestly though, Tom was a riot. He was the first person who ever took my 52" reflector after the shoot and made up scenarios of what it could be instead of a reflector. Like a giant pizza dough twirling overhead. :) The photo below was one of my "test shots" but I love the personality it exudes. THIS is Tom Roy!

Anna and Dave | Chicago Engagement Photographer

2011-09-14T11:28:00.001-04:00

I can't tell you how much I was looking forward to shooting Anna and Dave's Chicago engagement session! I love shooting in Chicago and I love shooting engagement photos! In spite of our early morning start time these two seemed completely at ease in front of the camera. It's so obvious that they love being together, it's almost contagious, it makes everyone else love being around them too.

Congratulations on your engagement, Anna and Dave! I wish you both a lifetime of joy!

Laura and Zach | Warsaw, IN Wedding Photographer

2011-09-07T15:25:00.001-04:00

Zach and Laura are married! One beautiful sunny day in August it started to rain, five minutes before their outdoor ceremony was to begin... Luckily, their friends and families were troopers and all carried their chairs inside the lobby of the beautiful Westminster Hall for a last minute change of plans. Zach and Laura were so easy going and carefree and why shouldn't they be, because at the end of the day all that really matters is that they had vowed to spend the rest of their lives together.

Wedding Details:

Beautiful updo for the bride and bridesmaids by J3 Salon

I loved the stunning flowers by Maple Ave. Florist

Ceremony venue: Westminster Hall

Reception venue and catering: 8WW Cuisines

Gorgeous reception decor by Glass Slipper Weddings

Delicious and artistic cake by Spencer's Sweet Shoppe

Last but not least, the D.J. who kept everyone dancing: Tom Westerhof of Tomfoolery Music.

Congratulations, Laura and Zach! It was an honor to be a part of your day.

Susan and Mihai | Winona Lake Wedding Photographer

2011-08-29T17:51:00.002-04:00

I did not have the opportunity to meet Susan before the wedding because she lives out of state but I'm just going to say, she is one of the NICEST people ever, so considerate and caring, by the end of the wedding I felt like we were old friends.

Wedding Planning: One of a Kind Events (I'd like to get on my soapbox for a minute here, Brides, PLEASE do yourselves a favor and hire a wedding planner! The day goes so much smoother, you have less stress and the peace of mind knowing that someone is making sure things are going as they are suppsed to. One of a Kind did an amazing job!
Ceremony venue: The Lakeside Chapel in The Village at Winona
Reception venue and catering: The Boathouse Restaurant
Cake: Spencer's Sweet Shoppe
Wedding gown and bridesmaids dresses: All stunning and HANDMADE by Susan's Aunt!

Special thanks to Curtis DeRoos, my second shooter for the day.

Congratulations, Susan and Mihai! Thank you for giving me the honor of documenting this beautiful and unforgettable day in your lives.

New Album by Nick Stanton

2011-08-17T16:48:00.000-04:00

This spring I had the opportunity to photograph Nick Stanton for his new album Love Has Overcome.

Nick has an authentic heart for God and his music is fantastic. This is what Nick says about his new album:

"I’m excited to release this new album titled, “Love Has Overcome.” For the past year I have experienced a mix of ups and downs. There have been good days and what seemed like weeks that were a time of wandering in a desert, searching for God. This album is a culmination of the struggles and trials that I have faced in my life but also the hope that we have in Jesus despite those troubles. I’m so encouraged by the words of Jesus in John 16:33; “In this world you will have troubles; but take heart, I have overcome the world.”

No matter what we go through in life, we have to believe that these words are true. I hope I can encourage your faith with these songs that God has placed on my heart and that I can spur you on to “run the race set before you.”

click here to visit Nick's blog.
click here to buy Nick's new album.

20% of all album proceeds go to Destiny Rescue, an incredible organization that rescues children from sexual slavery.

Sydney & Noah | Warsaw, IN Children's Photographer

2011-08-05T18:12:00.000-04:00

Baby David | Warsaw, IN Newborn Photographer

2011-08-01T09:34:00.000-04:00

Love the Love | Indiana Engagement Photographer

2011-07-23T07:44:00.000-04:00

I love shooting engagement sessions. I love capturing "love". I love it when my couples are completely comfortable in front of the camera but I also love it when they are nervous like Tiffany & Tshombe were. Why do I love it when they're nervous, you ask? Because I get the privilege of showing them how great they look and how beautiful their love is! This session was shot at the Indianapolis Museum of Art.

Of course, you can't shoot an engagement session at the IMA without getting a shot with the LOVE sculpture, it just wouldn't be right...

Tiffany and Tshombe, you are a beautiful couple and I can't wait to shoot your wedding in September!

London's Rockin' 1st Birthday | Warsaw, IN Child photographer

2011-07-14T13:48:00.000-04:00

The details at this party were FANTASTIC!

These weren't London's VERY first steps, but they were pretty close...

What's the best part about a first birthday??? Your very own cake, of course!!

Happy Birthday, London! You are so loved and I hope your second year is just as rockin' as the first!

Tea Anyone? | A Touch of Whimsy

2011-06-28T13:10:00.001-04:00

This photo was taken during an impromptu photo session with sweet little 6 month old Ruthie while I was visiting her parents. I think she looks like she's ready for a tea party and ironically the crate she's sitting in is usually sitting in her kitchen filled with assorted tea boxes and tins. Head over to I heart faces to see other whimsical entries.

Sugar & Spice & Everything Nice | Warsaw, IN Child Photographer

2011-03-31T11:15:00.000-04:00

What do you get when you mix a 3 year old little girl, an 18 month old little girl and a newborn girl?

A little bit of mommy-ing...

Quite a few kisses...

A tiny bit of crying and irritation...

And a whole lotta snuggles and sweetness...

Slice of Life | Warsaw, IN Birth Photographer

2011-03-28T10:41:00.001-04:00

Last Monday night, close to Midnight just as I was turning off the lights and getting ready to crawl into bed I received the most exciting call... "Missy has been having contractions, our mid-wife is on the way." I've been to the end of four pregnancies so I know how hard the waiting is those last couple weeks and now, after waiting to photograph a birth, I can say that the waiting is almost as hard for the photographer as it is for the parents!

Missy and Tony were planning a home birth and after a relatively short, 4 hour labor, I arrived at their house about 10 minutes before their beautiful baby girl, Selah Jain made her entrance into this world!

This photo was taken just moments after those incredible first cries. Sharing in this miracle, was probably the perfect way to end a Monday.

"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well."

Psalm 139:13-14

Visit i heart faces to see more exciting "Slice of Life" entries

If you'd like to see more photos of Selah's birth send me an e-mail.

melissa (at) melissajordanphotography (dot) com

Zara's 3 + Family | Warsaw, IN Photographer

2011-01-31T09:15:00.001-05:00

I really love it when family pictures reflect an actual family dynamic. Don't get me wrong, pictures where everyone looks perfect have their place BUT the picture below is so fantastic to me because it screams THIS IS REAL! Three year old Zara is asserting her independence and 10 month old Holden is smothering mom with his baby love. Anyone who has had kids can surely relate to this picture!

As long as we were in her room, little Zara had the BEST time with pictures. Laughing and dancing and jumping on the bed... All mom had to do was start laughing and Zara would burst into giggles, adorable!

Holden wasn't quite so eager to be in front of the camera. We had to resort to getting out a dust-buster to coax those big baby smiles out. (don't ask me why it worked, but it did!)

The two of them getting attacked by dad and the dust-buster... :)

Discreet Birth Photography | Warsaw, Fort Wayne, South Bend

2011-01-21T15:41:00.003-05:00

The day your baby is born is one of the most important days of your life! I'd love to capture the story of your baby's birth with sincere discreetness giving you a lasting tangible memory of those incredible first moments.

Why should you hire a birth photographer?

1. To free your partner and other caregivers up to give you more support.

2. You'll probably labor in a dark room and you will need someone who is

capable of shooting in low light conditions with out a flash.

3. My custom black and white images are warm and so pretty!

4. Because your baby's BIRTH day is a day worth photographing!!

Please contact me for more information and my winter 2011 birth special, good for January, February and March.

Three Under Three | Warsaw, IN Children's Photographer

2011-01-15T22:43:00.003-05:00

I had the privilege of photographing these three BEAUTIFUL children as a result of a mistake. I accidentally dropped off prints to their house when the prints were supposed to go a few houses down. Now, in spite of my initial embarrassment, I'm so glad that I made that mistake because these kids, they're pretty fantastic! All three of them are under three years old!!! Can you imagine how lively their house must be on a daily basis!?

I can already picture the trouble Noah and his baby brother Eli will be getting into once Eli gets a little bigger.

Oh, how I love this face that little Mia was making! I can't remember what her mom said she was doing but it's the most adorable thing!

Today is gone. Today was fun. Tomorrow is another one.

-- Dr. Seuss

2010 in Review

2010-12-31T10:11:00.000-05:00

I seriously cannot believe that 2010 is ending tonight! Does anyone else feel like this year was all just a big dream? It was so fast, there were hazy parts and clear parts but overall it was a great year! My plan for this post was to choose my favorite picture from each month and post 12 of my 2010 favorites but I couldn't choose!!! I had so many amazing clients this year and a lot of great volunteer assignments too. So I decided to make a collage of the highlights of the year.

To all my clients, THANK YOU for a fantastic year! I am honored to have had the opportunity to tell a small part of your story this year.

With love and best wishes for 2011,

Portraits at Home | Warsaw, IN Photographer

2010-12-10T10:07:00.001-05:00

If you're thinking you missed the boat this year on having family portraits done because it's cold and snowy outside why not have portraits done inside your house? That's what the "B" family did!

How sweet are these sisters!?

Such a beautiful family!

20 years and counting | Warsaw, IN Photographer

2010-12-09T10:19:00.003-05:00

I have been blessed with amazing friends my whole life. I've never been the type of person that needed to have a TON of friends, just a handful that are trustworthy and loyal and fun and can have meaningful conversations and that's exactly what I've been given. Ever since I can remember.

This is Jenny and her family. Jenny and I have been friends since SEVENTH grade! We were even roommates for two years in college but the third year she transferred to another school and we started to grow apart. God has a way of keeping good friends together though, we both grew up to be photographers! I'd love for you to visit her website sometime, she and her husband Glenn are a very talented husband and wife team photographing from two different perspectives.

Jenny may be one of the most thoughtful persons I have ever met. You see, I have a daughter that lives in heaven but her body is buried over two hours away from me, nearby where Jenny lives. Every Mother's Day since December 2006 when my daughter Isabel passed away Jenny has visited her grave and taken her Lilacs, one of my favorite flowers. I've never asked Jenny to do this, she just does it... ♥

Thank you, Jenny, for allowing me to be a part of your life and for being such a good friend for 20 years and counting. I look forward to many more years of friendship!

April, Derek, Chloe & Jack | Warsaw, IN Family Photographer

2010-10-28T11:42:00.002-04:00

I love this family. The first time I photographed Jack was when he was 9 months old, it's been so fun to see him and Chloe growing and changing.

Here's Chloe, just as sweet and pretty as ever! So cooperative too, she may be the easiest child to photograph, EVER!

I love the picture below, I think it's just so sweet. I have a soft spot in my heart for dads and little boys.

Jack... little rascal, this is one of the very few pictures I have from this session where he wasn't ignoring me! He's so cute though, you can't help but be crazy about him!

"A family portrait is only complete with love to fill its frame."
Wes Fessle

What to wear for Holiday portraits | Warsaw, IN Photographer

2010-10-26T20:59:00.001-04:00

I've been asked a lot lately what I recommend for clothing for portraits so I thought I would dedicate a few blog posts to showing what I think looks great for pictures. This first look is very conservative and traditional but full of modern style and doesn't scream holidays, I would definitely hang pictures of my family dressed in these clothes on my wall plus one more girl outfit because I wouldn't dress my girls in the exact same clothes :) but that's just me.

Children's clothing from Gymboree
Men and Women's clothing from Banana Republic

Check back soon for a "What to wear Fun and Funky!"

Kendrick 16 Months | Warsaw, IN Child Photographer

2010-10-25T13:25:00.002-04:00

Kendrick's mom, Amanda was my daughter's kindergarten teacher last year, she is so nice and my daughter just LOVED being in her classroom. Amanda came to the session prepared with several poses she was hoping to get but Kendrick had other ideas as 16 month olds usually do. :) I adore these pictures though and I really love the outcome when we just let toddlers take charge of their own sessions.

So many expressions!

Being cute is exhausting!

Cranberries, Pumpkins and 3 month olds | Warsaw, IN baby photographer

2010-10-23T23:25:00.001-04:00

What is it about fall that makes me crave all things cranberry and pumpkin? Owens, a local supermarket carries pumpkin chocolate chip cookies in the fall, they're soft and thick and sometimes a little gooey and oh, so good. Especially dipped in whip cream, you should try it. Unless you're dieting, then you should not because I'm positive there's almost an entire day's worth of calories in one cookie + whip cream. :)

Anyway, back to the point of this post. I just finished editing beautiful Sawyer's three month pictures. He's so sweet and soft too but so much better than a pumpkin chocolate chip cookie.

p.s. this is my first time embedding the slide show above on my blog, what do you think?

Happy | Warsaw, IN Wedding Photographer

2010-10-20T16:54:00.003-04:00

"There is only one happiness in life,
to love and be loved." -George Sands

I am now booking 2011 weddings. Contact me for my package details or to set up your own custom wedding package.

p.s. I will have a booth at The Warsaw Premiere Bridal Expo in February and I'd love to see you there!

"C" Family | Warsaw, IN Family Photographer

2010-10-19T10:52:00.001-04:00

We had to reschedule this family session several times because the weather was being uncooperative. Once our schedule and the weather's schedule finally lined up it turned out GREAT! Such a beautiful family and they didn't look at me like I was crazy when I asked them to just turn towards eachother and start talking, they just did it!

I have to admit I was a little nervous about photographing 13 year old Corey... I remember 13 year old boys from school and they were too cool for anything "family". Corey was very sweet though with just enough cool to make any 13 year old girl swoon.

Beautiful Jada has the thickest, most gorgeous hair I have ever seen on such a young girl. Fantastic personality too, a great mix of sweet, shy and spunk!

"C" Family, I love this picture below, you're so sassy. :) Thanks for letting me photograph you and for not giving up when we had rain and wind and more wind and more rain!

In The Orchard Photo Challenge

2010-10-18T10:14:00.003-04:00

It's been a while since I've entered any photos into the I Heart Faces weekly photo challenge. I'm trying to turn over a new leaf though, and really push myself to post on my blog so I thought this was a great place to start. This weeks challenge is "In The Orchard" and my entry is of 1 year old Leah sitting under an apple tree. When she reached up high with that apple I thought it almost looked like she plucked it from the tree herself. :)

Click the button below to see other fun "In The Orchard" entries or to enter one yourself!

Natalie | Warsaw, IN Senior Photographer

2010-10-12T14:58:00.002-04:00

I have known Natalie since she was born and remember her always being so cute as a little girl. Now that she's all grown up though... She's breathtakingly beautiful! It was really wonderful getting to know her again during her session. These pictures were taken at her grandpa's lake/woods home, a beautiful place and very meaningful too.

I try not to post the same pictures on my blog that I post on facebook but I couldn't help it with this last one. It's my favorite from this session, I think Natalie looks so striking and dramatic.

As always, click on the picture to enjoy a larger version.

Maeve | Chicago Newborn Photographer

2010-10-01T23:21:00.001-04:00

This is Maeve, she has really long eyelashes. You'll have to click on the picture to make it larger to believe me. Seriously though, long eyelashes and such a pretty baby!

I love finding a great piece of furniture that belongs to my clients to use in their pictures. Maeve loves it too. Congratulations Jeff and Brigid! What a sweet baby girl you have!

Olive | Chicago Newborn Photographer

2010-09-13T10:34:00.000-04:00

Meet Olive, the sleepiest baby girl I've ever had the priviledge to photograph.

So sweet.

Oh how I love tender moments captured between parents and their new baby.

Michelle & Josh | Marion, OH Family Photographer

2010-08-18T00:09:00.000-04:00

In general, boys are so much harder to photograph than girls... They just don't think it's as much fun. :) This family was blessed with THREE boys and they were all such good sports, I had a great time with them.

Matt and Annette | Marion, OH Family Photographer

2010-08-05T13:50:00.000-04:00

Q: What's black and white and blue all over?

A: A super cool family photo collage, that's what!

"D" Family | Marion, OH Family Photographer

2010-08-03T15:47:00.002-04:00

My absolute favorite place to shoot family portraits is in little run-down nooks and crannys of industrial areas. Which is why I love these so much.

Well, I also love these because they are full of a super beautiful family. Oh, and because she's my best friend. :)

Be sure to click on the picture to enjoy a larger version.

Brigid | Chicago Maternity Photographer

2010-07-30T18:11:00.000-04:00

So pretty...

Favorite from this session.

Suzy | Chicago Pregnancy Photographer

2010-07-30T17:43:00.000-04:00

I wish all my clients were this happy to have their picture taken. :)

Beach Babes | Warsaw & West Palm Beach Child Photographer

2010-05-21T20:11:00.002-04:00

What can I say? Sun + sand + wind + waves + adorable children = one GREAT session.

2010 Fat and Skinny Tire Festival | Winona Lake Photographer

2010-05-04T19:53:00.005-04:00

Last weekend I had the opportunity to be one of the volunteer photographers at this years annual Fat and Skinny Tire Fest in Winona Lake. I was only there for a few hours but it made a huge impression on me and I wanted to share this fantastic event with all of you. As always, be sure to click each picture to enjoy it fullsize.

Personally, I have never been a rider. The last bike I had was a teal colored Huffy ten speed that I won at my high schools graduation party. Before that, I remember a white bike with a banana seat from which I delivered newspapers in my neighborhood. My limited knowledge of cycling as a sport in general led me to ask Greg Demopoulos, one of the Fat and Skinny Tire Fest board members some questions about the event so that you weren't left with just pictures and my ignorant commentary.

Just today I learned that May is National Bike Month, this is one of the reasons the festival is usually held the first full weekend in May.

Here is where the fun begins, my questions are in blue and Greg's responses are in brown.

-How did the idea of the festival come about?

Back in the late 90’s and early 2000, cycling started gaining more momentum in the community as the mountain bike trails expanded and began hosting larger races. At the same time, plans were being discussed for a community Greenway that would provide safe walking, running and cycling access in multiple areas of and through town. As the Village at Winona opened and Trailhouse (the local bike shop) became one of the stores, KCV Cycling Club (Kosciusko County Velo) started to get some great comments from people about the area, the mountain bike trails, the beauty of the town and the inspiration for health, wellness and community it portrayed to visitors. One of those visitors was Frankie Andreu, a former professional cyclist who finished the Tour de France nine times and was Lance Armstrong’s teammate for several years, when he won the Tour de France. KCV (eventual producers and promoters of the festival) Cycling Club partnered with Trailhouse and DePuy to bring Frankie to the community to speak about leadership, as well as cycling. He was blown away by our community, the amenities and the passion for cycling in such a small community. His encouragement, along with the request and encouragement of Brent Wilcoxson, the visionary and manager for The Village at Winona convinced us to develop, produce and promote the festival. 18 months later we kicked off the first festival.

-Why did you decide to include so many different aspects of cycling rather than just a mountain bike race or a road race etc.?

Our goal and intent from the beginning was to showcase the all-around benefits of cycling in several forms, but to highlight on a larger scale the most popular aspects for entertainment. This allowed us to attract the most visitors, as well as the best athletes and competitors. Plus, we wanted it to be family-friendly. You can’t grow a sport or activity without bringing young kids in to experience a part of it and be excited about it.

-Where are most of the racers from?

Well, actually we have racers and participants, since not all the activities are racing competitions, come from all over the midwest and eastern portion of the country. We also get cyclists who originally were from the area, plan trips back to visit family so they can participate in the festival. This year we had participants from as far away as Wyoming, Tennessee and Pennsylvania, but the majority are from Indy, Ft. Wayne, South Bend, southern Michigan, Chicago, Louisville and western Ohio.

-Who is allowed to participate in the races/activities?

In all honesty, we pride ourselves in having activities for absolutely everyone. From the group ride on Friday night to the kids activities on Saturday, the tours on Saturday and the racing competitions all weekend, there really is something for any caliber of rider, whether you’ve just learned to ride a bike or you’re a professional bicycle racer, we have an activity or event that you can participate in or spectate at.

-What was the most memorable moment of this years festival?

For me, it could be summed up in two words “dedication” and “participation”. Throughout the weekend we were hit with bad, gloomy, questionable weather, but yet our numbers were really high, all things considered. Our racing participants hit record highs. Our pre-registration numbers hit record highs. The people that came out to watch the Ortho Cup Corporate Challenge race were awesome. Even in the rain, people came to participate, whether it be competing, riding or just spectating. And the kind words and encouragement we received from visiting cyclists, not only about the festival, but the generosity and hospitality of our community was great to hear. I think that speaks volumes for the appreciation, recognition and reputation the Fat & Skinny Tire Fest has built. And all of that helps us (KCV Cycling Club) achieve our ultimate goal in creating awareness and access in our community for cycling in general, as a great activity for healthy recreation, competition and transportation.

Thank you so much, Greg, for taking the time to answer my questions and for the opportunity to photograph this amazing event!

If you live in the area you can personally recognize National Bike Month on Friday, May 21st by participating in the KCV Cycling Club's "Bike to Work Day" ride from Trailhouse and 1000 Park Bakafe in The Village At Winona at 7am to help raise awareness for cycling as a transportation mode. Even if you don't live in the area, you could help awareness for this cause by riding your bike to work that day.

If you have never been to the Fat and Skinny Tire Fest you NEED to make plans to go next May! If you own a bike, bring it. If you dont, prepare yourself to be inspired to buy one. Afterall, I saw very quickly at this years festival that all the cool kids ride bikes (and have the best legs). If that's not a good enough excuse how about this, it was SO. MUCH. FUN! See you there, I'll be the girl holding a camera and riding around on a teal colored Huffy ten speed. ☺

Two cuties | Warsaw, In Child Photographer

2010-05-01T09:47:00.002-04:00

I had so much fun photographing these two cuties! Chloe is a natural in front of the camera and was pretty determined to BE in front of the camera as long as I was around. Jack on the other hand, was determined to RUN AWAY from the camera whenever I was around him. :)

This parasol was Chloe's moms when she was little, a perfect little vintage accent for spring portraits.

I ♥ sibling interaction.

Sweet baby blues...

When I'm working with kids as beautiful as these two, it's hard to not get good pictures.

Fix it Friday

2010-04-16T11:45:00.002-04:00

Every Friday at i ♥ faces they have a straight out of camera picture for their readers to practice editing on. This is my first time participating in fix it friday, I think because I really do not like editing. I do it but I would much rather spend the time behind my camera than in front of my computer.

This is the original image, a great shot, except that it's very underexposed. Even as dark as it is, her eyes still had some natural catchlights, that makes me happy.

My first edit: All in Elements 7 I raised the levels, increased the brightness, increased the contrast. Swept over her skin with the airbrush tool in the lighten mode, used clone stamp for any extra noticeable red spots on her skin. Dodged the highlights in her eyes, burned the shadows in her eyes. Added a softlight sepia layer at 30% opacity, reduced the noise and ran unsharp mask.

My second edit I used the first edit and desaturated the entire image -85 percent. Saturated the red back up to -45 percent. Added a sepia layer at 30 %.

To see more Fix it Friday entries click the button below

Senior Portrait Special

2010-04-12T16:38:00.000-04:00

I am currently running a special on senior/graduate sessions. The first twenty seniors to have their portraits done by me between now and 10.31.10 will be entered into a drawing to receive a FREE- brand new- ipod shuffle.

My senior sessions are on location only
unlimited wardrobe changes
2-3 hours

Finally Spring!

2010-04-08T13:59:00.001-04:00

I am so happy that Spring is finally here, I love the green grass, going coatless, the new buds, even the rain. Most of the time anyway, today's rain had some snow mixed in for a while and that wasn't happy.

I thought I'd play around with some nature marcro shots in honor of spring.

Details of a Guinea feather

A new spring bud

This one isn't exactly macro. This squirrel was sitting in the tree watching my kids play in their bedroom. I think he was waiting for his turn at a spring portrait.

Click any picture to see it bigger.

Big Announcement!

2010-04-02T10:23:00.000-04:00

I am so excited to finally announce that my new website is live! Click here Melissa Jordan Photography .

And because every post is better with a picture...
I give you Josiah trying with all his might to blow up a balloon

p.s. he never did blow that balloon up.

Baby Ellie

2010-03-16T15:53:00.001-04:00

Don't you love pictures of sisters? I love that this picture is all at once playful, tender and innocent.

Baby Ellie surprised her family and decided to join them 5 weeks early so she had to spend a little time in the NICU but she's home now and doing wonderful.

i heart faces workshop giveaway with Amy Wenzel

2010-03-05T10:40:00.004-05:00

Anyone who has paid attention to my favorite photography blogs on the right knows that I've been a fan of Amy Wenzel's work for a long time. She and i ♥ faces are giving away a spot to her upcoming workshop in Grand Rapids. I think her workshop would be amazing, I would love to learn from her and it would help me to take my photos and business to that next level... But besides Amy's blog, I also follow her husband David's and I pray for them often. Even though I consider G.R. my hometown, I've never met either of them, so I'm really hoping that if I do end up at her workshop it doesn't make me look too stalkerish. :)

Anyway, back to the giveaway. Amy wants to hear our stories of how we inspire the people in our lives, the problem is, I don't know if I'm an inspiration to anyone. I'm not exactly that person who has it all together. My house is usually strewn with toys and dirty clothes and even dirty dishes, my kids are most definitely out of control, my marriage takes an unbelievable amount of work just to get by, my photography business is not something that is falling into place all on it's own, I feel like one gigantic mess 87% of the time.

If I actually take the time to reflect on the mess though, I see how very beautiful this mess of a life is, because I question what it would look like if I did have it all together. What if my house was always disenfected and tidy, my kids so well behaved, my marriage perfect, my work booming? I'm not sure that it would be as clear to me just how desperately I'm in need of a Savior. Not that I'm going to be "saved" from any of the above mentioned things, but they do help me to see that imperfections and all, I'm profoundly loved by the one who is perfect.

I want to see people the same way that Jesus sees them and to love them as he loves them, flaws and all. My third child, Isabel passed away when she was one day old. Losing her has deeply turned my heart towards those who are broken and grieving. I gave God permission (as if my permission was necessary...) from the moment I knew she would not live to use this for his purposes. I had hoped that his purposes included healing but I was prepared for them not to. Since then I've had many opportunities to walk beside broken people, I hope that God has used me to show them they are not alone. I hope that my presence was a testimony to them that there is life after loss, that the eternal God loves them and wants to carry them through their darkest days.

photo by Lisa Kae

People may not say that they are inspired by me but I hope they will say that they are loved by me, For I have the greatest example of love to model my life after and just like him, I choose to love people through their triumphs, through their failures and through their losses.

Twins

2010-02-24T09:00:00.001-05:00

My beautiful cousin Casey recently gave birth to twins! James and Julia, so sweet and tiny.

Today!

2010-02-17T11:08:00.002-05:00

Today is my best friend Amy's birthday! I miss her terribly and I'm half tempted to hop in the van to make the three hour drive to her house and surprise her. She's probably busy doing something fabulous though, it is her birthday after all... Amy loves to make birthday's special and I just couldn't help posting about her today because SHE is special. She's so funny and warm and creative and real. Happy Birthday Amy Beth, I hope your day is amazing!

The truth is, I'm lucky enough to have two best friends, and feeling nostalgia for one always turns to nostalgia for the other. The three of us were inseperable for many years. That is, until we were physically separated by distance. We ventured to a Renaissance Fair one year and a gypsy woman asked us if we were sisters, it wasn't that we looked alike, (although we all have the same color of green eyes) the gypsy woman said "ya'll feel the same." That was over ten years ago but I still feel the same. I have a bond with these two incredible women that I don't think I will even find again. The kind of friendship where silence is comfortable and it's not uncommon to laugh until you cry, usually after a glass of wine. :) I'm so blessed by their friendship and can't wait until the three of us can physically be together again.

"The Crazy Girls" Amy, Lydia & Melissa

Spencer

2010-02-17T10:34:00.000-05:00

Last weekend I had the priviledge of taking Spencers newborn pictures. He was actually a few weeks old by the time I made it to his house to take pictures. He had developed an infection soon after birth and had to make a lengthy stay at the hospital. He's home now and thankfully he's doing great.

This is my favorite picture from the day. I love his red spiky hair and that he's looking straight into the camera! How many newborns do that!? I can't help but wonder what he's thinking here.

Broken Resolutions and Sick Days

2010-02-08T16:03:00.001-05:00

Yes, I've already broken my resolution of posting once every week. I have an excuse though, I've been sick. The last weekend in January I went to a women's retreat with my church, it was on a Friday night and Saturday most of the day. During the afternoon session I started getting a headache that radiated down my neck and into my back. At the time I was thinking flu. It was about a 30 minute drive home with hot/cold flashes the entire way and as I walk in the door it literally hit me all at once; fever, chills, body aches, swollen tonsils. I took one look in the mirror at my throat and knew it was strep right away, this may be too much information but later that night my tonsils were completely covered in a thick film of yucky white stuff. (By the way, once you peel some of that white stuff off your throat and look at it outside of your mouth it's not so white and even more yucky).

I actually had a bottle of antibiotics at home because I went in for a tetanus shot a few months ago after stepping on a rusty nail. The doctor gave me a prescription and told me only to take it if I experience redness or swelling where the nail pierced my skin. That puncture did not show signs of infection so I still had the antibiotic. I started taking it right away for strep throat along with way too much ibuprofen and tylenol. For three days I layed on the couch and moaned. I woke up Tuesday and felt a little better, my fever was down, I could actually walk around a bit, I could eat without feeling like I was swallowing a cactus.

So, I stopped taking my antibiotic and had 4 wonderful days of feeling strep throat free! Then something happened, you know when your doctor tells you to take all of your antibiotic even after you start feeling better? I really should have listened to that. Saturday night (again) my throat is getting tight, I check in the mirror, yup, it's back. To make things worse, it's spread to my husband and possibly my son. (he has something, we're just not positive that it's strep). So, I'm back on the couch, back on a new antibiotic, back to swallowing catci...

I did manage to do a one year old session during those 4 healthy days; William, with his big brown eyes, little heartbreaker!

Sweet Little Ruth

2010-01-19T12:10:00.000-05:00

Introducing Ruth Amelia, the beautiful newborn daughter of my friends John and Heidi.

Congratulations friends, I'm so happy for you!

Helping the helpless

2010-01-15T14:38:00.001-05:00

Ever since I can remember my heart has been moved towards helping people who are hurting but I find myself at a loss for the Haitian people right now. I hope that everyone knows of the devastating 7.0 earthquake that has left Haiti in ruins. The pictures, the stories, every single person in that small country has been affected in one way or another. I'm wrecked in the deepest part of my being for them. So much, that I can't talk about it, there are just no words...

World Compassion Network is a missions organization in my small city that uses physical means to show people the love of Jesus. Right now they are making arrangements for short term care of food and water for the people in Haiti, then they will assess what will be needed for longer. I would like to ask you to please consider giving financially to provide for these people right now. You can make a donation just by clicking here or find another trusted organization to give to. Please don't just hear what is happening and let yourself forget, I pray that you will let it break your heart, you won't regret it.

Photo Source NY Daily News

The Day After...

2010-01-09T18:14:00.005-05:00

Late last night, or I suppose you could say early this morning, the SOAR! recipients were announced. I was not one of them. Along with over 260 other women, I'm feeling discouraged by what seems like a loss. Honestly though, it's not a loss, it was never mine to claim and what I have gained because of applying is so much greater. I just want to say thank you to all of you who have supported me through this process, I hope that I can continue to count on your support as I work towards building my business.

I made the video below for the other applicants. You are all amazing, inspiring women and I'm so priviledged to have met you and to have shared in this part of your story. Best wishes to you all, every one of you is a winner to me! I'm looking forward to receiving from you and giving to you, as we all continue on this journey. I would like to encourage you to follow my blog and I would like to follow yours as well. I want to rejoice with you as your business grows!

To the three recipients; Linda, Jennifer and Lindsay, Congratulations from the bottom of my heart!!! I know that you realize what a tremendous gift this is. I can't wait to see the great things that lay ahead of you as you begin to SOAR!

SOAR! sisters youtube video

Rollercoaster

2010-01-07T17:09:00.001-05:00

I didn't take this picture... but this is how I feel today.

Tomorrow is the day that the SOAR! scholarship recipients are announced and it's stirring up so many emotions that you wouldn't think it would be possible to feel all of them at the same time. Or, to bounce back and forth between them all so quickly. I thought about making one of those emotion graphs, all filled with my face, expressing all the different things I'm feeling today, that's not going to happen though... I'm too emotional! :)

I'm relieved to finally find out.
I'm sad that the wait is over.
I'm grumpy because I haven't been sleeping enough.
I'm disappointed because I might not have been chosen.
I'm nervous because maybe I was!!!!
I'm ~~jealous~~ I mean, happy for whoever is chosen.
I'm excited to follow along on the recipients journey.
I'm thankful for being a part of this opportunity, regardless of the outcome.

Seriously, this is an amazing thing that's happening. It's bringing out generosity in corporate sponsors, it's creating community between women with similar dreams. It has already built a foundation of confidence for so many women to go for their dreams. 2010, it's going to be a good year.

Inspire

2010-01-06T22:27:00.001-05:00

These are just some of the things that I find inspiration in.

Vintage design

Music. Specifically music from talented musicians with poetic lyrics that move my soul. Over The Rhine is my favorite band of all time but they are especially a great go-to band if I'm needing some inspiration.

There's nothing like a little caffeine to give my inspiration a little jump-start.

The intricacies of nature.

Anxious

2010-01-05T22:54:00.001-05:00

How can he sleep at a time like this!?

Just a little behind...

2010-01-04T20:09:00.003-05:00

I know that I should have posted these last week because they are Christmas pictures. All I have to say is this, it's my blog, I'll post out of order if I want to! :) Just wait until I break out the Thanksgiving photos!

This floor mat/puzzle was one of Josiah's favorite gifts, that and a roll of bubble tape.

Adria trying on the police officer sunglasses.

Adria LOVED the musical jewelry box that Bianca received. She thought the little dancer was so funny.

Bianca pretending to be a police officer, that blurry thing in front of her is her badge.

Our 9ft. pre-lit Christmas tree that I got at a yard sale for $8.00!!!!

Isabel's ornament that Bobby got for me last year. It's a baby sleeping on a cloud with a pink blanket.

Where the stockings are hung with care...

I hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas!

Happy 2010

2010-01-01T16:38:00.000-05:00

I don't usually make New Years resolutions. Last year I made one, I wanted to lose 20 lbs by my birthday in April, it was a joke, kind of. The only way I would be able to do it is if I starved myself but I still wanted it to happen. (I think I only lost three pounds by then.)

This year I'm making a real resolution. I've applied to win a photography business scholarship from Me Ra Koh and a lot of other amazing sponsors. They are giving out three scholarships but there are over 260 applicants. I don't know what the judges are looking for but in my application I believe that I spoke from my heart and I'm confident with what I've submitted. One of the requirements for the recipients is to make weekly blog postings, all of the requirements are getting the recipients on track for a lasting career in photography. Regardless of if I win, I have resolved to make weekly blog postings, it doesn't sound like much... BUT I've also committed myself to being more open and speaking from my heart on my blog. To me, that is a lot. I'm a very reserved person and I haven't been comfortable sharing my heart with people unless they ask, or sometimes pry, I have to know that a person truly wants to know me before I reveal the most intimate details of my thoughts, my feelings. I almost feel invisible most of the time because in reality, I've only had a handful of people that I have thought truly wanted to know me.

So, here it is January 1st, 2010. My very first post of my blogging resolution. I thought I'd start with my prayer for 2010. I sat down to write something meaningful and eloquent and lofty... Then I threw the paper in the fire because I wasn't being honest, I wasn't speaking from my heart. I was trying to manipulate how you might perceive me... The truth is though, my prayer for 2010 is that I would be more like Jesus. That I would see people the way that he sees them. That I could use the creative means that he did to point people to God. That I would truly love people, the way that he truly loves people. The way that he loves me.

Happy 2010 friends!

Dreams of sugarplums....

2009-12-07T08:24:00.000-05:00

This weeks theme on i ♥ faces is "sweet dreams" and I knew right away that I wanted to submit this image of my son sleeping under the Christmas tree. He's four and hasn't taken naps since he was about two but he was hiding from me under the tree last week and fell fast asleep.

i ♥ faces buttons do not like me. I don't know why. You can go to www.iheartfaces.blogspot.com to see all the other great sleeping entries.

John and Heidi and Bump

2009-11-24T09:37:00.000-05:00

I love Chicago! If anyone ever wants a session in Chicago I am happy to oblige! John and Heidi assured me that they were going to be awkward in front of the camera, um... I have to disagree.

We lost daylight really really quickly but the city is so well lit we were able to get some great night shots, including this one in front of Heidi's favorite crazy Christmas tree. It's right in front of The Cheesecake Factory if you want to see it for yourself. :)

Congrats guys, I can't wait to meet the little person in that bump!

Sun Flare

2009-11-23T14:22:00.000-05:00

This weeks photo challenge at i ♥ faces is sun flare. I have to admit that I was trying to capture some sunflare in this picture, it worked and I love it.

Click here www.iheartfaces.blogspot.com to see more sun flare entries.

Autumn Beauty

2009-11-16T08:18:00.000-05:00

This is my entry for the Autumn Beauty challenge over at I Heart Faces. I don't think there are many things more beautiful than a dad playing with his little girl on a cool fall day.

And because the I Heart Faces buttons do not like me click the link to see the other great autumn entries. http://www.iheartfaces.blogspot.com/

Derek, April & Kids

2009-10-17T15:47:00.001-04:00

Isn't this family so adorable? Super-mom April got the whole family out the door for pictures the morning of her son's first birthday party.

Morrissey

2009-10-06T15:52:00.000-04:00

Introducing baby Morrissey, and yes, she is named after the singer, isn't that so cool?

Congratulations Jen and Dusty!

Blue

2009-09-28T14:07:00.001-04:00

After feeling guilty all week for entering a picture of Bianca with her eyes and tongue popping out in the I ♥ Faces "candid" contest, I thought I would redeem myself by entering her again this week in the "blue" contest. Blue is her favorite color after all, it has been since she was about two years old.

I can't get the button to work this time so I'll just post the link to see all the other blue entries. http://www.iheartfaces.blogspot.com/

i♥faces candid shot

2009-09-21T10:07:00.000-04:00

This weeks challenge on i heart faces is a completely candid shot. This is one of my favorites of all time. It actually makes me laugh out loud when I see it. My daughter was absolutely positive that there wasn't going to be anything scary about going down a slide. She made it all the way to the top with her little brother not far behind. She bravely sat down on her burlap sack while her brother cowered in the corner and WOOSH down she went, leaving every ounce of courage at the top. If you look closely you'll see that the only part of her touching the slide is her arms and feet, the rest of her is suspended in mid-air.

She was pretty upset when she got to the bottom because she was too scared to enjoy the ride and wanted to do it again...

Click on the button to see all the other great candid entries.

Day 64 (but who's keeping track?)

2009-07-30T15:27:00.001-04:00

I had the priviledge of photographing a bunch of junior high students at camp this week, this is one of my favorite shots (out of all 800 or so).

Day 63

2009-07-22T15:56:00.001-04:00

Jack at 9 months

I ♥ Faces photo challenge- Feet

2009-07-20T09:12:00.000-04:00

This weeks photo challenge on I ♥ Faces is "Feet". This is my entry.

Day 62

2009-07-17T10:06:00.000-04:00

Sneak peek of Josiah's 4 year old session.

Day 61

2009-07-16T08:53:00.000-04:00

I usually try to avoid photographing anything in direct sunlight, but this is a gift completely from the sun. I didn't do anything to alter this image.

Day 60

2009-07-14T11:06:00.000-04:00

Dirty face or not, she's so adorable wouldn't you agree?

Day 59

2009-07-12T16:54:00.000-04:00

This giant bee decided to get a closer look at my sons birthday party and my husband's neck seemed to be the best landing spot around at the time.

Day 58

2009-07-10T19:04:00.000-04:00

Day 57

2009-07-08T11:41:00.001-04:00

Photo's from the fair.

Day 56

2009-07-07T09:24:00.001-04:00

Day 55

2009-07-05T13:48:00.001-04:00

This is my sad attempt at photographing fireworks last night.

Day 54

2009-07-04T15:01:00.001-04:00

This morning we took the kids to a 4th of July parade. The theme of the parade was Dr. Seuss. Bianca LOVES Dr. Seuss. She's been The Cat in The Hat for Halloween for the last two years and has no intention of ever being anything else. She's named one of our cats The Cat in The Hat and another Sam I Am. An underlying theme of floats and people in the parade was The Grinch stole the 4th of July.

Bianca watching the parade with her own Cat in The Hat.

Day 53

2009-06-30T08:04:00.000-04:00

Day 52

2009-06-29T10:15:00.001-04:00

chocolate lips

Day 51

2009-06-27T10:04:00.000-04:00

Day 50

2009-06-26T06:48:00.000-04:00

Power washing the house.

Day 49

2009-06-25T08:37:00.000-04:00

Day 48

2009-06-24T21:44:00.000-04:00

The Tiger Lily's are in bloom. :)

Day 47

2009-06-24T21:41:00.001-04:00

Can I have sushi too?

Day 46 (or something)

2009-06-24T14:51:00.001-04:00

Baby Anne Louise born Saturday June 20, 2009.

She's so adorable and tiny.

Day 45

2009-06-20T07:31:00.001-04:00

Day 44

2009-06-18T15:22:00.000-04:00

This baby skunk would fit in the palm of my hand if I were brave enough to pick him up. We found three of these on our property so far, isn't he cute?

Day 43

2009-06-18T10:24:00.000-04:00

Sometimes you just have to sleep. It doesn't matter where you are, it doesn't matter that there are very sharp limestone rocks for your bed or that the nice soft grass is only five feet away. When you are this tired, you just have to sleep right now.

Day 42

2009-06-17T09:21:00.000-04:00

Day 41

2009-06-16T16:00:00.000-04:00

Hangers at my yard sale.

I'm trying to catch up, although I have no idea what day I should actually be on.

Day 40

2009-06-16T10:10:00.001-04:00

You know that picture I posted a few days back of my favorite tree? It's now covered in clusters of these blossoms and smells amazing.

Day 39

2009-06-15T14:43:00.001-04:00

I know I'm behind again, things have been crazy around here. The other day I let my son carry around a can of peanuts outside and he kept leaving little piles for the dog. The dog would sniff a bit then run away.

Then along came the cat. Who knew cats like peanuts?

Day 38

2009-06-10T10:06:00.000-04:00

I hope that whoever is looking at this isn't getting bored with all my nature stuff lately...

Day 37

2009-06-09T08:54:00.001-04:00

Sugar snap pea blossom