4th of July - Seaside, OR

Our Oregon vacation happened to fall over the 4th of July, my very favorite holiday.   We wanted to see the fireworks over the ocean and we picked Seaside as our perfect spot.  We were astounded at the sheer number of spectators!  There were campfires and fireworks being set off everywhere before the scheduled show began.  It was quite an experience...and honestly had a slight resemblance to a war zone.  What a beautiful country we live in...and what a delight to celebrate from sea to shining sea.

girl's camp 2014

It was the first year of Girl's camp for Ellie!

I was lucky enough to be asked to be an assistant camp director at the last minute (a few weeks before camp).  I was SOOO happy to be there for her first year.

It was filled with archery, target shooting, strumming and singing around the fire, amazing food, laughs, a challenging hike, wonderful YW leaders...all at the Lowe's property in Argyle Canyon.

turning TEN

Kate turns TEN!

10 things we love about you-

you love to be silly

you are a human fish

you are happiest when you are outside in the sunshine

you love to read

you are the first to comfort

your sisters are your best friends

you love milk+cookies

summer is your favorite season

you love to pick flowers

we love your laugh

finished 6th grade

She completed 6th grade yesterday.  

It was a day filled with emotions-

writing messages in year books

tears as the school bell rang

having the whole grade over for a pool party

having close friends over for games, dinner and a movie outside

It is hard to believe that elementary school is over for this special girl of ours.

picked peonies

clear days

photo credit: in my collection of Aunt Dot's photographs

"On a clear day, rise and look around you,

and you'll see who you are.

On a clear day, how it will astound you--

That the glow of your being outshines every star...

And on a clear day...

You can see forever and ever more."

-On a Clear Day You Can See Forever

Clear days for me included REMEMBERING God first thing in the morning.

Clear days for me include REMEMBERING to spend some time outside each day.

Clear days for me include REMEMBERING to look those I love, those I talk to, those I meet in the eyes...and truly listen.

Clear days are the very BEST days...how can I REMEMBER to create them every day?

Swing!

family

left to right:  Alex, Annie, Carin, Danny, Connie, Bob, Dede, Mike, Bill & Annie

left to right:  Ellie, Wesley, Kate, Nana, Sara, Papa, Chase, Braden, Reagan, Sophie, Grace & Cameron

meeting Alex

tell your story

 I am thrilled to be a part of the TELL YOUR STORY WORKSHOP FOR TEENS this summer!!!!  It is a workshop that is designed to inspire and educate those 13-18 years of age to express themselves through photography in positive and fulfilling ways.  They will learn how to use light, composition, and become more familiar with the settings on their camera!  Did I mention that was ANY CAMERA!?  Some very creative and inspiring women are working together to make this a wonderful experience!  For more information visit:  tellyourstoryworkshop.blogspot.com