:: Ashley Reherman Photography | Blog ::

:: celebrating women :: (continued)

noreply@blogger.com (Ashley Reherman Photography) — Sat, 24 Oct 2020 16:58:00 +0000

My next amazing woman is Megan. She's a fellow photographer, business owner and mama. One of the things I love about her, is how she uses her business to empower women...to show them their beauty and worth. Whether you're a size 2 or 22, she will make you feel beautiful and make you believe in your beauty. There's so much power in that. As photographers, we tend to be MUCH more comfortable behind the camera. We have our own insecurities and as much as we can tell others (and truly believe it) how beautiful and worthy they are, it's difficult to be that kind to ourselves. I wanted to give Megan what she gives to so many others. I asked her a few questions about her business philosophy (and a bunch of other things 🙂) “I am a portrait photographer and what I really love doing is empowering women and self-love through photography. I really wanted to start shooting boudoir sessions after hearing so many women (myself included) speak about themselves in such a negative light. We start hating our bodies at such a young age. I wanted to be able to showcase a woman’s beauty and individuality through these intimate sessions. I want them to see their beauty, BELIEVE in it, and fall in love with it. I do very minimal retouching because I want every woman that comes to me to see their true self in this moment of their life. I think it’s hard for women to feel beautiful because we are constantly comparing ourselves to someone else or even to ourselves from years ago. In every stage of our lives, we may lose or gain weight and we can’t ever appreciate our bodies for how far they’ve come and all they’ve been through. I feel so lucky that my clients trust me enough to help them embrace and love their bodies. That’s one of the reasons I have preached over the summer to “wear the damn shorts”. I’ve seen a lot of bloggers share this movement and I loved it right away. I spent years growing up and in early motherhood not wanting to wear shorts because I thought my thighs were too big. But why? No matter how small or big we think our legs are, why do we need to hide them away?! Life is too short to worry about this. Wear the damn shorts and appreciate where your legs have taken you.” When do you feel like your true self? “100% behind the camera, hyping up my clients. I could shoot these sessions all day. There’s just something about seeing these women loosen up and just start appreciating themselves. The whole vibe is contagious.” As a small business owner and mom of two school age kiddos, how has this pandemic affected you? “Virtual learning has been a little bit of a struggle in our house. My 8th grader doesn’t mind it as much, even though she does miss her friends. It’s tough with my elementary school aged daughter, though. We’re trying our best but Mama isn’t a teacher. They really miss being in a classroom. Not to complain, because I do love having them safely at home and it’s given me lots of time with them. As far as the business side goes, there were a few months there that I was unable to work because I was considered a non-essential. Fortunately, I’ve been very busy since I was able to reopen. As a boudoir photographer, I have had clients come to me saying that they have gained weight during the pandemic, so they are a little nervous to book. Ha, I’ve even gained a good amount of weight myself. But being able to capture this time of their life and still showing them how worthy they are at any shape and size is everything to me.” MUA extraordinaire: K Artistry

Amazing Jewelry: Julie Ellyn Designs

Megan's beautiful photography page: Lay in the Breeze Photography

:: celebrating women ::

noreply@blogger.com (Ashley Reherman Photography) — Sat, 26 Sep 2020 16:05:00 +0000

What does it mean to be a woman? What is beauty? What is femininity? What makes someone feel authentic? I’ve been thinking about this a lot recently as I scroll through my various social media feeds, amazed by the incredible women who touch my life. Women have always been able to do whatever they set their minds to - the main obstacle being societal limitations and what’s “appropriate”. Is someone who stays home to raise a family MORE of a woman than someone who chooses a career path? Of course not. Each is noble in its own right. Just like a stay at home mom is no less fierce than a corporate boss. Each woman possesses her own set of strengths, and however she chooses to use them should be revered. It got me thinking - I want to celebrate and spotlight women and hear their stories while also collaborating with other women in various industries. What really pushed me was seeing posts from one of my former brides. She is a prime example of the idea that women can do whatever they set their sights on. She comes from a family committed to service, so it’s no surprise that she would end up where she is now. But when you look at her, this beautiful, tiny little woman, your first thought would not be firefighter. I think we have this misconception that women who are firefighters have to have a certain look or body type. That couldn’t be further from the truth. This woman is fierce. She is strong. She is determined. She is a BOSS! I asked her some questions to really get a sense of what she does and what her shapes her ideas of beauty and strength.

“I currently am a Volunteer firefighter with Aberdeen Fire Dept., and I am a career firefighter with a county fire department. I’ve been volunteering for about 7 years and I’ve been paid for almost two. I knew that I wanted to have a job where I helped people. I just didn’t know how. I started volunteering and quickly fell in love with meeting and helping people. It was more than just a hobby to me and I knew I wanted to make a livelihood out of it. I feel most confident when I make a connection on calls. When I have a patient that trusts me and I can tell that they know I’m here to help them. It’s euphoric. There truly isn’t a better feeling. I obviously feel pretty when I have a polished outward appearance but I feel like there is an entirely different meaning to pretty when I am in my work uniform. You wear less makeup and it’s lower maintenance, but there’s a feeling of pride and confidence for your profession and who you represent that inherently makes me feel beautiful.”

When do you feel most like your true self?

“I feel like my true self when I’m with my shift and my volunteer house. We spend so much time together that it’s like extended family. We pick on each other and give each other a hard time, but I never feel like I’m forced to be anything but myself. I feel accepted and I know that they will support me and have my back through anything. You learn to trust them like they were family.”

I asked her what her personal definition/idea of femininity:

“My own definition would be embracing what make you female. What traits make you who you are. We aren’t molded the same and we should embrace individuality and the strengths we possess. Every woman has their own story for why they chose their hobbies and profession. I have been blessed to have a strong female leader on my shift at work who reminds me that we can do whatever we want if we work our asses off to get there. But I can do it with being kind and caring, nurturing those around me.”

She is a true hero. A woman who’s dedicated her life to helping others. Every woman has a story. A unique, complicated, beautiful story. I want to help tell those stories. The nurse working overtime during a pandemic. The mom struggling to get her kids through virtual learning. The small business owner who has had to restructure her business model to try to stay afloat. Whatever her story, it’s hers and it’s important. If you know anyone who you’d like to highlight, please shoot me a message!

I’m so thankful to have partnered with Kera from K Artistry Studios for her amazing makeup skills, Julie from Julie Ellyn Designs for supplying the beautiful baubles, and Tammy Jones from Spa at the Boulevard for hair to die for. Please check out their work and USE THEM!!! Let’s support each other, not only in this time of great uncertainty, but always.

:: there IS an I in isolation ::

noreply@blogger.com (Ashley Reherman Photography) — Wed, 22 Apr 2020 22:08:00 +0000

Well...one would think that with this whole pandemic madness, I'd have plenty of time to sit here and write blog after blog. True, the time is there. So what the heck is my problem??? I'm going to be honest - I apparently don't pandemic well. I see all of these people who are productive and motivated, despite being stuck at home. I see these truly heroic people going to work day in and day out to make sure that we're safe, cared for, and functioning. I see parents who are maybe not loving the idea of homeschooling, but are stepping up to the plate and doing the best they can in an awful situation. There are teachers who have completely had to adapt their way of teaching from in person to online. The list goes on and on. Among my siblings alone, I have a social worker seeing clients virtually, a college professor posting prerecorded lessons and holding Zoom classes and office hours, a postal carrier who is working 7 days a week most weeks (and his girlfriend who is a high school chemistry teacher trying to make that work somehow), and a medical office employee who has been temporarily laid off and figuring out how to make ends meet until she can go back to work. These are incredibly difficult times for everyone in many different ways. I am struggling. Not always and not catastrophically, but struggling nonetheless. I cannot work because I am not essential. I am not one of those people that gets every project that's been waiting in the wings done because now there's unlimited time. I am someone whose biggest accomplishment on some days is taking the dog for a walk or taking a shower. I know how ridiculous that sounds, and certainly that's not every day, but it absolutely is some of them. I don't know why this happens, but I know that it does and I've learned to let it happen. Some days it's just necessary to get caught up in your feelings. I'm not saying it's healthy to stay there, but certainly to acknowledge the fact that this is hard and scary and so uncertain. I don't have a kid at home anymore. I wish more than anything that I could hug him every day and let him know that I'm here for him. His birthday is this weekend. 23 years old. We can't have a party or go out to dinner and really shouldn't even probably see him (I will...with masks and no hugging, but I can't NOT see him). My parents are in different states. I've rescheduled trips to see them all a few times now. I hate that I can't check on them in person. I miss them. I miss my siblings and my friends and my clients. This is everyone. I am not unique in this situation. I actually wish I was...that not everyone was going through these hardships and much, MUCH worse. I can't imagine being a healthcare worker having to watch people suffer without their families. I can't imagine having a loved one in the hospital and not being able to be by their side. I can't imagine working 12-14 hours a day and not be able to go home for fear of infecting your loved ones. This whole situation is unimaginable, and all we have is time to sit and think about all of it. When I go down the rabbit hole of fear and upset, I try to redirect myself with a book or a walk or even by coloring. Sometimes it works, other times, not so much.

Why am I telling you all of this? Why am I revealing what I sometimes feel is a colossal personal failure? Because it's okay. Because, if you're feeling the same way, you're not alone. It's important to know that. It's more than okay to reach out to someone and tell them that you are struggling. You can reach out to me, if you want. I understand. While I may judge myself, harshly at times, I do my best not to judge others. We're all just trying to muddle our way through an unprecedented (for us) situation. And one of the hardest things for me, is to acknowledge that even though there are others who are WAY worse off than I, it's okay to feel the way I do. It's okay to be scared and sad and lonely and whatever else it is that you're feeling. Just do your best...it's all any of us can do. And try to find something beautiful in every day, no matter how small. Sending lots of love and virtual hugs. We will get through this.

:: a+b = engaged ::

noreply@blogger.com (Ashley Reherman Photography) — Thu, 12 Mar 2020 01:18:00 +0000

I'm on a roll!!! One might actually get fooled into thinking I've got it together these days (one would be wrong!). Well, I may not have it all, or anything really, together, but I'm certainly trying.

This past weekend I met this beautiful couple. It's pretty rare that I don't meet a couple, or at least the bride, before their engagement pictures, but this time it's just how it worked out. I generally get along with most people, but you never know...so I was thrilled when I met them and knew right away we'd work great together.

These two were best friends before they dated, and you can tell. There's an ease between them that you don't always see. They're so excited to get married and start that part of their lives together (with their furbaby, Tucker). How lucky that I get to go along for the ride!! I can't wait for their wedding later this year. We're going to have so much fun and get some AMAZING pics.

So, here's our adventure in Ellicott City. It was pretty crowded and kind of chilly, but I think we did pretty well!!

This corner of the city is where his family used to have a gas station...how cool is that?!?!

Yep...Tucker is pretty dang happy that his people are getting married!!! Just look at that smile!

I couldn't decide which picture to share (this one or the next one)...so why not just share both!

:: from senior to bride ::

noreply@blogger.com (Ashley Reherman Photography) — Mon, 02 Mar 2020 22:47:00 +0000

I'm sure I've mentioned it 1000 times before, but I am so very fortunate to be able to make connections with people through my job and then be able to follow them through their life's journeys. The other great thing is that my work is different every year. Some years I have more families than anything else. Other years it's high school seniors, and, like this year, sometimes it's weddings.

I met this beautiful bride several years ago when I photographed her senior pictures. She was and is just a joyful, sweet, ball of light that you can't help but be happy around. When she asked me to photograph her wedding, I couldn't have been happier. It truly warmed my heart to know that she wanted me to be a part of her most special day (so far!). I met her and her husband-to-be for engagement pictures and could instantly see how perfect they are for each other. I know that sounds hokey, but it's absolutely true!

Get ready for a lot of pictures!!!

Engagement ::

Wedding time ::

And how's this for awesome...two of my former seniors!

(please excuse my end of the night, been running around like a crazy person all day look)

Venue | Antrim 1844

Second Photographer | Amy Vanicky Photography

DJ | Aaron with Wizer Productions

Florist | Blossom and Basket Boutique

Bakery | Stone House Cakery and Cafe

Dress | K & B Bridals

:: finding yourself ::

noreply@blogger.com (Ashley Reherman Photography) — Fri, 28 Feb 2020 22:18:00 +0000

(photographing Iceland - taken by my sister, Liesl)

As many of you know, I took a transformative trip to Iceland last year with my youngest sister. I'd always known I wanted to travel there, but I didn't realize what a profound impact it would have on me. I know that sounds dramatic, but it's absolutely true. As I sit here today, weary from every day life and fresh off of a trip which was taxing and heartbreaking, I am longing for the vast and varied terrain of Iceland. Open road takes on a whole new meaning there. You can drive for miles and miles and not see another soul. While I love interacting with people, I also crave the serenity of nothingness. In this case, the nothingness is otherworldly landscapes not marred by signs or neon lights or, in most places, people. For me, my brain has a reset button, and one that I don't utilize often enough. I believe that to be true for just about everyone. For you, maybe it's not Iceland...maybe it's the beach, or the desert, or anywhere that lets your brain rest. Very rarely do we take the time to breathe. Really breathe. In Iceland, I felt like I could breathe again. I challenged myself in ways I didn't know I could. I was adventurous and open, smiling and breathing. In with the good, out with the bad. It's not realistic to think that we can live in our escape, but we can strive to be more mindful of what is stripping us of our peace on a daily basis and work to eliminate those toxins, so to speak. I am saying this knowing that I have a long way to go in this process. I'd like to think that since my Iceland experience, I have at least begun to tap into those inner resources that will allow me to breathe more easily. My personality is such that I tend to take on the weight of the world. I try not to, but it's just who I am. So my challenge is to figure out how to be true to my personality while also taking care of myself. I hate to think of myself as selfish...that word has such a negative connotation for me. I, along with many of you I'm sure, have to separate self care from the word selfish. Self care is necessary, not selfish. I'm learning that I cannot help others if I am tapped out. And I've been tapped out for a while. I wish I could travel to Iceland and beyond every few months, but obviously that's not a possibility. Since I have found that there is peace for me in exploration, I will work to do so more often than I have in the past. All I have to do is look at the tattoo that I got with my sister in Iceland and realize that I am strong and courageous and, yes, adventurous.

hugrökk kona, ævintyragjörn sál

courageous woman, adventurous soul

:: brandi - warrior princess ::

noreply@blogger.com (Ashley Reherman Photography) — Mon, 30 Dec 2019 18:06:00 +0000

I truly believe that people come into your life for a reason. Sometimes it's not apparent at the time, and sometimes it just smacks you upside the head. I met this fierce woman through a program which matches up photographers with families going through a cancer battle. I got paired with Brandi and I couldn't be more thankful. She is truly amazing, as is her adoring, supportive husband and their Miss Independence three year old daughter. Brandi exudes positivity and strength. If I didn't know she was sick, I wouldn't know. She is sweet and loving and happy and in the past year has been in a battle for her life. I asked her if she would mind sharing her story...an increasingly common one...so that others can be inspired and know they're not alone. Here's her story, in her words...

"On October 22 2018 I received the call that all my tests came back positive for breast cancer. I was 37 years old and my daughter was 2.5, no family history and all genetic testing was clear. I was 1 out of 8 women who will receive this diagnosis due to environmental conditions. It was a whirlwind of calls and appointments scheduled and on November 22 2018, I had a double mastectomy surgery to remove the cancer as well as a lymph node dissection to be sure for clear margins. On January 3rd 2019 I started my first chemotherapy treatment along with 5 more after that every 3 weeks. I completed my treatments in May but would then go on to 28 days of radiation and finishing out 2019 with two targeted infusions. I will receive my last infusion on Jan 9th 2020!

Your life and experience and expectations of how things are supposed to be really does change and it alters every aspect of your life. Your health is something that should never be taken for granted and even though I am what I think to be one of the "lucky ones", the rest of my life will be filled with appointments, a hopefully manageable level of anxiety and fear and an overwhelming amount of faith and grace to be able to live my days I was given to their fullest."

One of the things I've learned over my many years is that you never know what someone else is going through. Most people don't live their lives with full transparency. It's not our business to know everyone else's, but it is our responsibility to be kind and giving and loving to those who cross our paths. Everyone is dealing with something in their life. Everyone.

Thank you, Brandi, for sharing your story. I am beyond grateful to now count you as a friend and, even though I've not known you long, I'm so proud of your courage and strength.

brushing off the dust

noreply@blogger.com (Ashley Reherman Photography) — Mon, 16 Dec 2019 18:47:00 +0000

Well, well, well...

Bet you didn't expect to hear from me! I can't believe it's been almost 3 years. Not quite sure what my issue is with this whole blog thing, but like I've said many times before, I'm going to try and get moving with it again. I figured THIS wedding was definitely the one to start with...I mean, how can you go wrong with a destination wedding in St. Lucia??? The answer is, you can't.

{WARNING :: THIS IS GOING TO BE A LONG ONE!}

I met this beautiful bride a few years ago when I shot her parents' 30th anniversary vow renewal. That day, I knew I was dealing with a special group. Last year they reached out with a special request...Chelsea was planning a destination wedding sometime this year, but the groom's grandmother was not going to be able to travel all that way, so they wanted to do something special. Something just for her. So her mother pulled out her dress from 1986, which happened to fit Chelsea PERFECTLY, and she and Mike went to the courthouse with his grandmother for a ceremony just with her. She and I were the only ones in there with them as they said their first "I do". It was amazingly special and thoughtful. I normally get teary at some point during a wedding, but I felt like it was the entire time as I watched his grandmother beam with pride at the love and commitment on display.

Several months after this ceremony, they reached back out to me to see if I'd be interested in traveling with them to St. Lucia for their second ceremony with their families. Yeah, that was not a difficult decision to make! So plans were set for our December to remember. It was a very small group. In total (including me) there were 11 people. Not for one second did I feel like a vendor or an outsider. This amazing group of humans made me feel like one of their own and included me in everything they did (to include ziplining!! Not something I ever thought I'd do!!). By the time the day came for the actual ceremony, we'd already spent 3 days together. It was magical. Being able to photograph these people who I've come to adore, in a setting that was completely different from any wedding I've ever done, was so special. These families truly love each other and I'm so lucky to have been able to capture that.

it's wedding time!!!

Congratulations, Mr & Mrs!!

pretty sure a rainbow on your wedding day is a great sign!!

noreply@blogger.com (Ashley Reherman Photography) — Sun, 05 Feb 2017 20:49:00 +0000

Here we are again...a new year, an apology for being so out of touch, and a new post. So...Happy New Year, sorry for being out of touch, and here are new pics for you :)

I felt as though this was an important one to share. We tend to take for granted those families that are constantly being pushed to their limits for our wellbeing. Families that are so much stronger than we can ever imagine. Children that have to say goodbye to Daddy or Mommy for sometimes a year at a time. This was the case last Monday. A family saying goodbye to Daddy for at least a year. Can you even imagine?? During this deployment, there were 20 men who left. That may not seem like many, but to those families and friends, it's the whole world.

The day before, we went to the airfield and took some family pics. Sadly, this is not the first time I've taken pics for this family before a deployment. They are WONDERFUL and I'm so lucky to know them.

and then...Deployment Day

this is Daddy's 3rd deployment, and little man's first

really look at this picture...these children are much stronger and more resilient than most adults

he didn't want to let Daddy go, even when it was time to prep his ride

the big helper

the bravest of the brave

one last selfie before it's time to take off

those last hugs are the hardest

military parents are parents to everyone, not just their own

Daddy's ride

she is the BEST big sister

they are sisters of circumstance...brought together by a shared experience

Daddy waving goodbye to his loving family. Please keep them all in your thoughts as they are about to embark on one of the hardest years of their lives.

:: OH BABY ::

noreply@blogger.com (Ashley Reherman Photography) — Mon, 12 Sep 2016 00:08:00 +0000

It's been a while since I posted...as usual. I have a lot of shoots to post, but I'm going to just talk about one couple for right now (prepare for a ton of pics though!). Meet Bethany and Chad. I met them about a month ago after a dear friend of mine/their realtor gifted them with a few sessions with me. Bethany was about 8 months pregnant when we met and one of the most beautiful pregnant woman I've seen!! They are just the sweetest, kindest people and I am SO lucky to have met them. We clicked instantly and I knew this was going to be a special shoot.

During their shoot, they mentioned that they'd been toying with the idea of having someone photograph the birth of their first child, baby Eli. She was kind of on the fence, and I've never done anything like that, but I told her that they are HER pictures. If she doesn't ever want anyone else to see them, they don't have to (spoiler alert: she's going to let you see them!). Deciding to go ahead with it, I was suddenly very aware of where my phone was at all times and whether or not the volume was high enough to wake me up. With a due date of September 15th, I've been on call for the last few weeks. It turned out that Friday, September 9th, was the day. My phone rang at 4:15am...they were headed to the hospital!! I ended up waiting until about 1pm to head to the hospital where I'd stay for the rest of the day. To say that this woman is a trooper is an understatement. She got her epidural which unfortunately only blocked the right side of her body, so she felt everything on the left. It was a long afternoon and she was getting pretty tired and you could see the shift in her when things got really tough later in the day. But even with that shift, she was still her sweet, polite self. I've never seen anything like it. By about 6:15pm she was starting to push. Again...super tough, but during the down times she was chatting and smiling and making sure everyone else was okay. Her son wasn't there yet, but she was a mom for sure. The hospital staff was wonderful and Chad was SO involved! After about an hour of pushing, Eli's heart rate was starting to fall so it was time for her to reach deep and bear down. And that she did. She was a ROCK STAR and got that boy out, Chad basically catching him and placing him on her. The relief on her face was so telling. It was absolutely one of the most beautiful things I've ever witnessed. I can't thank them enough for allowing me the opportunity to be a small part of their most special day. Something I will never, ever forget.

Welcome to the world, baby Eli. Born 9/9/16 at 19:19, weighing 8lbs and 19.5 inches long (apparently 9 and 19 are his lucky numbers!!)

:: a brutal but necessary stop ::

noreply@blogger.com (Ashley Reherman Photography) — Tue, 28 Jun 2016 00:27:00 +0000

Up to this point, my posts have been upbeat and fun (at least I think they're fun!!), but this is not going to be one of those posts. It shouldn't be. I also didn't want this to be the last trip blog, even though it was the last thing we did before we left Germany. There will be another after this, I promise. So here it goes...

Since we spent our last night in Germany near Munich, we knew we had to visit the Dachau Concentration Camp. I know to some of you this might seem strange, but to us it was a necessity. Even Lucas, at 19, knew we needed to do it. Because even though our trip, while exhausting, was so full of beauty and excitement, this place, this horrible, horrible place is just as much a part of our history as any of the other places we visited.

After the age of about 12, I grew up with a Jewish stepmother and stepsisters. My stepmother was a teacher of Jewish history, specifically the holocaust, and was actually THE expert in the Albany, NY area. My mother, a tv producer at one time, embarked on an incredible journey to document the story of a holocaust survivor named Emmy. In essence, I grew up in my teenage and later years surrounded by Judaism and holocaust stories. I had the benefit of learning from very well educated and informed women. Even without all of that, as a human being I feel the importance of recognizing the atrocities as well as the heroism that came from such a dark period in our history. I want my child to really understand what it meant to be labeled as "different" and cast aside to make room for the chosen ones. I'd like to say that this does not apply in present times, but in some ways it absolutely does. While we will never understand the devastation that occurred, we can at the very least acknowledge it and hold those souls close to our hearts.

As we walked up to the front gate, I told them that it was very possible that I would cry. I felt it. My breath shortening and chest tightening as we got closer. I can't adequately explain what it was like to walk through the gate which says "Albeit macht frei"...work sets you free. When I crossed through that threshold, something took hold of me. I had a visceral reaction...it was as though something took hold of me that I could not control. Tears poured out of my eyes as the depths of grievous loss became all too real. You hear the stories...the sheer brutality, and because we're removed from the situation, I believe our minds go into protective mode and don't let us really delve into the details. But standing there...looking at this expanse of pain and loss, there is no getting around it. I thought of all of the steps that were taken before mine on that ground, both good and evil, and I was completely overwhelmed. As we made our way through the extensive memorial, we were faced with realities that are impossible to imagine. The pictures of those who were lost, their belongings, even their names on a list...it was a lot to absorb in a short amount of time. There were three things that really affected me (that's not fair...there were a multitude of things that really affected me, but 3 that stand out most)...first was the size of the camp. It's huge. Massive. You walk down a path with empty lots where all of the barracks used to stand. They have rebuilt two of them so that you can get a sense of the horrendous conditions in which these people were made to exist. Second was the barbed wire. For me, that was such a powerful visual. These people were treated like animals...worse than animals. Third was the crematorium. Nothing prepares you for that. It's devastating. It made me sick to my stomach to think of those poor people. It's heartbreaking. Ugh...I'm tearing up now just thinking about it and I truly could go on and on and on.

To some, it may seem an odd addition to an otherwise joyful trip. To me and my family, it was necessary. I believe that everyone, given the opportunity, needs to visit at least one of the too many camps across Europe. These were mothers and fathers, sons and daughters, brothers and sisters, grandparents and friends. These were real people who endured the unthinkable and we owe it to them and their families to not only recognize them but to honor them and those who finally liberated the prisoners who survived.

work sets you free

just one side of the lots where barracks once stood

:: Clark Griswold, Take 2 ::

noreply@blogger.com (Ashley Reherman Photography) — Wed, 22 Jun 2016 21:23:00 +0000

Onward we go! From Switzerland, we split up for a few days. Lucas went on to Austria with my dad, stepmom and brother (Liesl had to head back home), and J and I went to Italy for a couple of days. Freakin' ITALY. Crazy. So back in the family truckster (FORD!) and down through Switzerland. The interesting thing about the Swiss is they don't seem to have their own identity. I don't mean that in a negative way, just that they kind of live up to that whole neutrality thing. When you're up north, they speak German. As you head south and a bit to the west, they speak French. And then to the south and east they speak Italian. It's very interesting. I know A LITTLE high school French, but that's about it. I was learning on the fly (or more accurately, drive). The ride was absolutely stunning, even though it rained most of the way. The weather, in general, was kind of crappy for the entire 2 weeks. However, it seemed that whenever we were getting out to do something, it stopped. We were extremely lucky in that regard. So...Hallo, Bonjour, and now Ciao. I need to learn Italian. It just sounds so cool!! Fortunately, a lot of people in Europe speak at least a little English, so we could get by with Jason's minimal German and the few words we learned in Italian. Driving through the little towns in the Dolomites (part of the Alps) seemed other worldly. Especially because we were up so high and the clouds hung so low. Breathtaking. Our first stop was Rapallo, on the Italian Riviera. Not too shabby!! Here's one thing I learned about Italy...driving on the highways, perfectly fine...driving in towns, you might not make it out. I now understand why they drive motorcycles and Vespas everywhere. Think of the smallest one lane road you can, park cars on one side, make it super curvy and probably on a hill, and then set it as a two way street. No joke. It was terrifying!! Thankfully, the place where we stayed was within walking distance of the town, otherwise I would have had to find the nearest farmacia and demand some Xanax!! I did feel like the people, at least where we were, were much more in your face than the people in Switzerland. They were all kind, it was just a different mentality. Rapallo is beautiful. Just what you would imagine an Italian town on the water would look like. We only spent one night there, but it was well worth the drive.

even the manhole covers are awesome!

this was the street we stayed on...I had to include it because we laughed hysterically every time our GPS tried to pronounce it. We found she was much better at German than Italian

see what I mean??? Gorgeous

this fortress was originally built in 1550 to protect the city against pirates! Can you even imagine???

So the next day we were supposed to take a ferry down to Portofino...a place I REALLY wanted to see. Unfortunately, the wind was too strong and the water too choppy, so they weren't running that day. BUMMER!! But guess what??? I called an audible. We were staying in Verona that night and an hour past Verona is, wait for it...Venice! Hmmm...wonder if we should make that drive. DUH!! How can you pass that up??? So back in the FORD and onto Venice. Surreal.

these beauties were all along the roadside. Of course I had to stop!

everywhere you look...something that just screams I'M IN ITALY!!

I don't know how many of you are step counters, but I had my Fitbit on for the entire trip and logged LOTS of steps. However, no day compared to the Venice day. We parked about 8 miles away (not really, it just felt like that on the way back) because, you know, we didn't have a boat. By the time we were to our hotel in Verona I had had over 20,000 steps for that day!

Venice. My mother told me that I was not to pass up an opportunity to experience Venice because, 1. It's extraordinary, and 2. it's sinking and won't be around forever. I have to admit, I was quite disheartened by what I saw. Not the city itself, it's truly one of a kind. What shocked me was the amount of trash and graffiti all over the walking parts of the city. Who could do that to something so special? Really broke my heart. The buildings and the water and the gondolas...THEY did not disappoint. I've never seen anything like it in my life. We just kept looking at each other saying "we're in freaking VENICE". Like any good tourist, we of course had to take a gondola ride. Our lovely guide spoke some English, I think. I couldn't really understand much of what he said...I just nodded and smiled with the occasional "WOW!".

(from my phone)

yes...I was dressed like a gondolier

Now...for what the camera got...

you know I love me some details!!

again...OMG WE'RE IN VENICE!

I just thought this was so cute

everywhere you turn...postcard perfect (aside from the trash and graffiti)

I wish we had more time to explore, but we were on a pretty tight schedule. I'm so thankful for the opportunity to see as much as we did!

Our second night was spent in Verona. You may recognize the name...good ole Willy Shakespeare used it as the backdrop for Romeo and Juliet! Like I've said before...the history over there is like nothing I've ever experienced. Again, being on such a tight schedule, we didn't get to explore the way we would've liked. The one thing we wanted to be sure to see was the Arena di Verona. It's a Roman amphitheater built in the first century. Let that sink in for a moment. It was built in the 100s. BEFORE the one in Rome. And they still use it!! In fact, they were setting up for a show when we went.

this was one of many pieces waiting to be brought inside for the show they were setting up for

I intentionally got the stone from the Arena in this picture because I thought the contrast between something so incredibly old and then the more modern buildings was interesting. Modern, of course, being a relative term.

Here's a crazy thing about driving through Italy, there are castles everywhere!! Seriously, there were so many of them! You have to be on the lookout!

From Verona we traveled back north toward Austria. Lucas and Jason had read a long time ago about Otzi the Iceman who was found between Italy and Austria in 1991. We knew that we'd be driving somewhat near the museum so we decided to have the rest of the family meet us there. I can't even explain how crazy the experience was. This man was found extremely well preserved...it is estimated that he lived 5,000 years ago. Older than King Tut! He's actually on display in the museum...it's AMAZING!! He's behind glass and you can't take pictures, but to be standing so close to something THAT old is unbelievable. He's in great shape for such a geezer. His feet look like yours or mine!! Actually, that was a little freaky. The rest of him was skin and bones. You should read about it sometime. It's fascinating. The town of Bolzano, Otzi's current home, is really cool.

I liked that you could see the statue in the window

That's where I'll leave you for today. You've almost made it to the end!!! I'll probably combine Austria and Germany in the next one. Lucky you!!

:: European Vacation - Minus Clark Griswold ::

noreply@blogger.com (Ashley Reherman Photography) — Tue, 21 Jun 2016 23:31:00 +0000

As many of you already know, my family went on an epic European vacation a few weeks back. Jason, Lucas and I flew out of Dulles, after 8.5 hours landed in Copenhagen, Denmark, had a 7 hour layover, and then flew another 1.25 hours to Frankfurt. **YAWN** We were SO tired!! But, in Frankfurt we wiped the sleep out of our eyes, picked up our rental car (a Ford. Seriously? We're in Germany and we get a FORD?? Not cool, Enterprise. Not cool.), and took off toward Stuttgart for the night. Up to that point, the only international driving we experienced was in England. SURELY this would be easier than that! Okay, truthfully, it was a lot easier, however our driver who shall remain nameless (his name rhymes with Wason) failed to study any of the number of books I purchased which had all of the road signs and rules in them. Wing it. Why not?! It took a few days to get used to the different signs and laws that they have, but in the end we learned that they are MUCH better drivers than we are. They actually obey the traffic laws and even though there are sections of the Autobahn which have no speed limit, it felt much safer than driving on 495 outside of DC. Anyway, back to the day...we got to Stuttgart. The end. No, no...not the end. We only stayed the night in Stuttgart so we didn't really get to experience that city, but I'm sure it's lovely. The next day, we packed ourselves back in our freakin' FORD and headed to Switzerland!! WOOHOO!! And...guess who we met there??? My dad, stepmom, youngest sister and brother! (We missed our other two sisters who were unable to make the trip...would've been amazing to have them there as well.) My dad and stepmom really spearheaded this whole trip and we absolutely could not have done this without them (insert applause and an endless supply of thank yous). The main point of this trip was to go to Bern, Switzerland with my dad because that is where his family originated. We stayed several nights there and it is truly remarkable. The history and architecture and fountains, and and and...SO many things!! Plus, there are streets, a church, a bridge, a hotel, and I'm sure other things we didn't see, with our family name on them! Well, how our name started out (now it is Nydegger...over there it's either Nydegg or Nydeck). I can't even begin to explain what an incredible gift it was to experience that for the first time with my dad. So lucky and blessed to have been given that opportunity.

Because the trip was so lengthy (2 weeks and about 2,000 miles driven!), I'm going to split this up into a few blogs. As you can imagine, I have A LOT of pictures. I haven't even edited them all, but I wanted to start getting them up for the family and friends that haven't yet seen any. Today I'm going to share Switzerland. I'll continue over the next few days with the other countries we visited and the stories that go along with them.

Our first day had us in Kandersteg, Switzerland. What an introduction to the Alps!!! Absolutely unbelievable. I fell in love right then and there.

what the...what??? Doesn't even look real

I mean, come ON

I was church obsessed

loved this guy and his super cool bell

my sister, Liesl...you CAN'T be in the Alps and not channel The Sound of Music. After all, she was named after one of the characters!

Bern is where we spent most our time in Switzerland and I would go back in a heartbeat. It is so beautiful and CLEAN! And public transportation is so easy to use...really anywhere that we went.

Tada! Here we are!! It's hard to see, but the green chapel in between us is the Nydeggkirche (Nydegg Church). It is the second oldest church in Bern and was originally built between 1341-1346 to replace the castle of Nydegg. Seriously...how cool is THAT?!?!

Here are more pictures of the church...just because it's AWESOME

Like I said, Bern is spectacular...

Bern is known for it's fountains...there are tons of them!!

Yep, that's really the color of the Aare River

Look! We have a hotel!! Well, sort of

I don't know why I liked this...okay, yes I do. It's the KaButt sticker ;)

This made me laugh...looks like the Ricola guy on his cell phone

the open air market made me wish I lived there. Lots of things made me want to live there! Except the cost. Switzerland is expensive!!

yep...just making some shoes

these guys were a super cool addition to the market

Next was Interlaken. I'm adding a picture from my phone because you should be VERY proud of me. We went up on this crazy vertical tram to an overlook that was 4,300ft up. I HATE heights. Not a fan in the least. It took me a while, but I forced myself out there. It was so scary. Like knees locked, heart pounding scary. Like I said, you should be proud

but the views....

my dad, my son and my brother

(notice the sign...the falling rock sign...next to the bench they're sitting on...which was NOT bolted down!)

These two are a year and a half apart. They might as well be brothers, although they do get a kick out of being uncle and nephew.

Of course I have many, MANY more pictures, but this is a good start. I hope to get some more up in the next day or so. You have been warned.

:: Happy Birthday Homecoming ::

noreply@blogger.com (Ashley Reherman Photography) — Wed, 11 May 2016 21:39:00 +0000

Fair warning...these pics may make you teary. Yep...it's another Operation: Love ReUnited homecoming!!! This amazing couple was married one month before he deployed. ONE MONTH. Let that sink in for a moment. Can you even imagine?? Crazy.

So his plane was SUPPOSED to come in around midnight last night. Apparently the weather in Dallas had other plans. Delay, delay, delay. D.E.L.A.Y. Finally, at about 3am, this wonderful couple was reunited and it was incredibly sweet. And yes, I got teary too. I just can't help myself!! And...the cherry on top? Today is his lovely bride's birthday. So even though she had to wait through the agonizing delays, she got the perfect birthday present...her new husband back in her arms!

**The photos and other content of this publication do not constitute or imply any endorsement or recommendation by the Department of Defense**

she was such a trooper!!

for those of you who are wondering, this wait is excruciatingly long

SHE SEES HIM

fighting the urge to run straight through security is impossibly difficult

he's here!!

go ahead, you can cry too

so sweet

that moment when the rest of the world disappears

so happy!!

guess who else is celebrating a birthday today...her twin sister who came along for support :)

:: Happy Baseball, I mean, Mother's Day ::

noreply@blogger.com (Ashley Reherman Photography) — Mon, 09 May 2016 19:29:00 +0000

I hope you enjoyed a wonderful Mother's Day filled with lots of hugs and very little work! Mine was spent at Camden Yards. I know, you're SHOCKED!! The Orioles had a Mother's Day experience where you could throw on the field with your child before the game. Just to be ON the field was amazing. Here's the funny part. I can throw and catch a baseball...I've always been able to. I LOVE to do it. However, I haven't done it in probably a year. Because of this, I wanted to practice. One day with my husband, and the day before the game with my son. Since I don't get much time with my son, we were out there for a long time. When it was time to throw on the field, they gave us these squishy baseballs and at first everything was fine. And then a combination of exhausted arm and stage fright (the cameras started to come around) took hold and I could not throw the ball to save my life. I was telling my shoulder, arm, wrist, hand what to do and all four collaborated to take me down. Any skill I had went straight out the window. When I realized that this was not going to get any better, we decided to stroll around the outfield and just take in the sites. It was a magical, comical, and at times frustrating experience that I'm so thankful we took part in.

Then came the game. I was a little concerned when it started with the A's scoring 3 runs in the first inning!! Yikes. Thankfully, those were the only runs they scored and our pitcher settled in and our bats came alive. Not just alive, they exploded!! Five guys hit homers...one of them, Manny Machado, hit two, including an 8th inning grand slam. It was electric! What an amazing Mother's Day game. So thankful that this beautiful child of mine spent it with me. He truly is my heart.

Here are the requisite game pics :)

Mark Trumbo is new to Baltimore, but is quickly becoming an integral part of the lineup

Chris Tillman and Matt Wieters...all warmed up and ready to go

Tillman on the mound and ready to start

Jonathan Schoop doing Jonathan Schoop things

Chris Davis

a perfect throw to Matt Wieters means...

...you're out at home

Manny Machado watching the first of 2 HRs leave The Yard

Schoop congratulating Pedro Alvarez on his contribution to the HR derby

24 year old Joey Rickard is quickly becoming a fan favorite...he's a lot of fun to watch!

Adam Jones makes centerfield look easy

Mark Trumbo

Joey Rickard

Ryan Flaherty

Tillman left the game after 6 1/3 innings to a standing ovation

Machado's GRAND SLAM trot...I love the ballgirl in the background jumping up to high five fans

another Baltimore newbie, Vance Worley. To me, his delivery is kind of strange...but it seems to work for him

when you hit 2 HRs, cameras will be in your face

a decisive 11-3 victory...not a bad Mother's Day present!

:: remember me?? ::

noreply@blogger.com (Ashley Reherman Photography) — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 17:10:00 +0000

Probably not, at this point. It's been, what, 4 months? Yikes. That's not good. But...here I am! Back, again.

SO...I had a wedding this past weekend. The cards were stacked against us. It was supposed to be an outdoor wedding at The Links at Gettysburg...a beautiful golf course. I did not think that snow would be an issue on April 9th. WRONG! To be fair, it only snowed a short while, but the fact that it was cold enough to snow was enough to put us inside. Thankfully, the bride and groom were up for anything and the venue provided a beautiful place for an indoor ceremony. Let me tell you, Alyssa Stoops is an amazing coordinator if you're ever looking to hold an event there. Truthfully, all of the vendors were fantastic and SO easy to work with. Use them if you have the opportunity!

It was an incredible day for a truly amazing couple. I'm SO happy for Amanda + Pat!! I wish them a lifetime of love, happiness, and, of course, SMILES!!!

venue :: The Links at Gettysburg

wedding coordinator :: Alyssa Stoops at The Links at Gettysburg

dj :: Great Scott Productions

cake :: Karen Rodkey Cakes

flowers :: The Flower Shop
officiant :: A Wedding by Summers

that moment you see your beautiful bride

husband + wife!!

first dance

despite the frigid temps and wicked wind, these two were up for anything

squad

they didn't have ANY fun

I was at least nice enough to bring a blanket along :)

not just one, but TWO of my lovely wedding couples! So wonderful to see Kara + Derek again!

timeless

:: rave on ::

noreply@blogger.com (Ashley Reherman Photography) — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 02:00:00 +0000

I am a HUGE sports fan. Like SUPER HUGE. I know this is completely shocking to most of you. And you'll be equally as shocked to hear that I LOVE taking pics of my favorite teams (hello Baltimore Ravens and Orioles!)

I try to get to at least one Ravens game a year, and when I saw that the weather was going to be ridiculously warm for the middle of December, I decided to get tickets for this past Sunday's game. I love my team. I support them through good and bad. And boy is this year bad! Not real surprising when literally half the team has been injured. We used a quarterback that we just picked up a few weeks ago because even our backup is injured! It's crazy. Even though I may not know most of the new guys' names, I support them. And when you go to a game KNOWING you're not going to win, it makes it much easier to enjoy. Cheering for first downs instead of touchdowns. It's okay. Just the way it is this season. Of course I want them to be competitive, but it was not in the cards. At the end of the day, it's an NFL game and I feel lucky to be able to go.

So even though it was a blowout game, I had a good time and took a bunch of pics (naturally).

JUICE!!! (because nobody can actually spell his last name)

they play hard, no matter what

Sam Koch…one of the best in the league

O.A.R. is a Maryland band that played at halftime (which was super awesome!), but during the first quarter they joined the Ravens marching band…so cool!

Justin Tucker…one of my absolute favorites! (and the favorite of most of Baltimore)

Chris Canty (99) holds a special place in my heart

that is a LARGE man!! (6'7" 320lbs)

we miss our Dennis Pitta!!

he did actually make that catch

that is a concentration face if I ever saw one!

it's all about having fun!

this kid had a sign that said "playing for college"…and he was GOOD! (and yes, I contributed)

:: fall-ing ::

noreply@blogger.com (Ashley Reherman Photography) — Wed, 28 Oct 2015 02:08:00 +0000

I love fall. This is not new information. For me, there is something so magical about this season. It seems as though autumn signifies the end, but I don't see it that way. I feel it's an opportunity. Take stock of the beauty that surrounds you but look forward to what lies ahead. It's a time to let go. Shed the weight of burdens and let yourself breathe. We hang on to so many things that we have no control over; things that hold us back or weigh us down…I am horribly guilty of this. Try to think of yourself as that beautiful tree - every leaf that falls is something you need to let go of, making room for new experiences, relationships, and positivity. The dormancy of winter gives you time for rest and introspection, allowing room for growth and renewal come spring.

I love fall.

:: movie star wedding ::

noreply@blogger.com (Ashley Reherman Photography) — Thu, 22 Oct 2015 16:18:00 +0000

…okay, not really. But the bride's name is Meg and her groom is Ryan so of course…Meg Ryan. Tada!! Movie star.

Well, these two may not be Hollywood celebrities, but they are certainly stars in the eyes of everyone around them. Meg was one of my very first high school seniors 7 or 8 years ago (who can remember that far back?!)…it was like watching a family member marry the man of her dreams. Can't lie, I was teary through the entire ceremony. They really are perfect for each other and I could not be happier for them and their families.

Venue: Water's Edge Events Center

Flowers: Sheila Smith Wedding and Event Floral Design

Mom added SO many wonderful details around her house

personalized hangers for everyone

she was seriously SUCH a beautiful bride…no surprise there…she's stunning

and the beautiful mother of the bride

I LOVE this idea!

sweet, sweet sisters

there is nothing like having your best friend by your side

twins!!

I mean, COME ON!!!

hee hee =)

the moment you see your beautiful bride...

This is one of my favorite father/daughter photos of all time. There are just so many things I adore about this picture…the way he's looking at her, the way she's looking at her groom…ahhh…ALL of it!!!

the tears were flowing…so happy!

I love this sweet moment

I do believe he was trying to hold it together

the groom's awesome parents

when you're finally married!!!

sealed with a kiss

she could not have been any happier

that's a good looking group right there

oh yeah…they were a fun group!

pinky promise

:: dream engagements ::

noreply@blogger.com (Ashley Reherman Photography) — Wed, 02 Sep 2015 15:07:00 +0000

…no joke…a DREAM! And in more ways than one…first: the couple is AWESOME! second: the first part was in Camden Yards. You know, my happy place?! Seriously, had the whole place to ourselves (outside of the people that actually work there…lucky). Well, we weren't COMPLETELY alone. Getting pics taken together not 20 yards from us were Cal Ripken and Kevin Spacey! Uh, what?! It was surreal. (In case you were wondering, the NY Times was in charge of that shoot and told me that I had to delete any pics I had on my camera of them. BLAH!!!)

I'm not kidding when I tell you that this couple is the sweetest! For real! I wouldn't lie to you. I'm so excited for their wedding in April. We're going to have so much fun!!

yep…THE dugout!

because sometimes you need to make a call to the bullpen...

what a backdrop!

L.O.V.E.

Fells Point was our second location…such a cool place

vacuum guy decided he wanted to help with posing :)

so sweet

:: sweet family goodness ::

noreply@blogger.com (Ashley Reherman Photography) — Mon, 31 Aug 2015 22:48:00 +0000

…it's been a little while since I last posted. Summer can be like that. Busy and lazy all at once. How does that work?? Don't we all have summer resolutions of sorts? Like New Year's ones, but a little more short term. I'm going to walk more. Clean. Paint. etc, etc, etc. I was mildly successful in my resolution endeavors, although I can't believe how much I DIDN'T get done and now we're a day away from September. Wait. Let me say that again. SEPTEMBER. Woah.

Anyway, here I am…back again :)

I just met this family last week, although I feel like I've known Mom forever! I love that. They are awesome and ADORABLE!! Wait until you see the long hair on big sis and the curls on little brother. Just wow. And the eyes…on ALL of them. They are just beautiful. But why am I sitting here telling you about it when I can show you!! So here you go…sweet family goodness coming up…

uh oh, Mom…4 going on 14!!!

"why don't you give your brother a hug"…yep

YAY!! We can leave now!!

this guy was pretty curious about what we were doing…and CHATTY!!

:: surprise homecoming ::

noreply@blogger.com (Ashley Reherman Photography) — Thu, 23 Jul 2015 13:50:00 +0000

This was a new one for me. A lot of times the person coming home doesn't know I'm going to be there, but they always have known that some part of their family/friends was meeting them. Not this time! This Marine was under the impression that someone from his base was picking him up for the 3 hour drive home and then his family would meet him on base. WRONG! Sneaky wifey arranged everything and surprised him with their 2 year old at the airport. And boy was he surprised! Such a sweet moment…6 months in the making. No matter how many of these Operation: Love ReUnited homecomings I do, they never get old…and I get teary every time! What a gift to be able to witness such amazing moments and meet such wonderful people.

Welcome home, Marine. Enjoy that beautiful family.

**The photos and other content of this publication do not constitute or imply any endorsement or recommendation by the Department of Defense**

I mean…come ON with those eyes!

kisses for Mama

yep

a sucker makes everything better

awww...

this girl was waiting so patiently too…not with us, but we got to love on her

again…the eyes!

SURPRISE!!!

6 months is a LONG time

welcome home

it's Daddy!!

how's that for a look of relief?!

so sweet

love

beautiful family!

they go through more than we can ever imagine…it's a lifelong bond

:: 1 year of bliss ::

noreply@blogger.com (Ashley Reherman Photography) — Tue, 23 Jun 2015 18:30:00 +0000

This family probably looks familiar to you…they should! This is the 4th time I've photographed them :) They started as one of my Operation: Love ReUnited families and have stuck with me for pregnancy, infant, and now 1 year old pictures. LOVE that!! It means SO much when people come back to me. They truly become friends.

Photographing a 1 year old is a challenge…mainly because I'm out of shape!! They are movers and shakers and SO stinkin' cute. It's been so long since I had a toddler, I forget how busy they are. This little one is AWESOME to photograph. First of all, she's gorgeous. Secondly, she is such a good, happy baby. Makes my job easy! Sadly, they will be moving on soon, but I sure hope that our paths cross again in the future. Best of luck, {M} family!! I've so enjoyed getting to know all of you.

those EYES!!!

I love how she's just so trusting of Daddy…just leans back and chills

gorgeous

hey…are you following us??

got your nose!

I adore this picture

how cute are they??

okay, I adore this too (and that one, and that one, etc. etc. etc.)

girls and their shoes

a visitor along the way

:: coming home ::

noreply@blogger.com (Ashley Reherman Photography) — Sun, 21 Jun 2015 16:51:00 +0000

First of all…HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!! In the spirit of the day, I thought I'd share an airman's homecoming from this past week. This dad of two beautiful girls was "vacationing" in lovely Kuwait for the last year. If you haven't been through it, it's hard to fathom just how difficult a year long deployment is on everyone involved. Actually, the pictures I'm going to share are pretty telling…pay attention to the older daughter's face. While they were waiting, she would smile for me, more of a grin actually, but it was fairly forced. And who can blame her?? Waiting is so hard. But after he walked through those doors, there was a light in her face that had been missing. It looked as though a huge weight had been lifted.

This amazing, finally reunited family is getting ready for yet another move. Thank you, {T} family…for the sacrifices you make daily. You are ALL appreciated!!!

**The photos and other content of this publication do not constitute or imply any endorsement or recommendation by the Department of Defense**

everyone needs a little lip gloss

Grandma came in from Maine to welcome her son home

that pretty much sums it up

WOOHOO!!!

look at that smile

:: 13 going on 30 ::

noreply@blogger.com (Ashley Reherman Photography) — Fri, 19 Jun 2015 16:50:00 +0000

Well hello, my dear blog family. I have been CRAZY busy lately between the wedding, my son's high school graduation, company, company again, a military homecoming (don't worry…that blog will be very soon!) and this past weekend, a bat mitzvah. I'm sure I sound like a broken always professing my love for my clients. I can't help myself…and I'm going to do it again.

So this lovely young woman is the cousin of 2 of my former mitzvah kids (not really kids anymore!!). She is extraordinary. This girl has the biggest, kindest heart and is so incredibly sensitive and insightful. She carries an old soul inside of her. Even the rabbi remarked about the fact that he's tutored over 5,000 boys and girls over the years and she was the first to actually ask for more to do. She wanted to learn more, give more, and just BE more. 13 years old. Amazing. Her project benefitted The Wounded Warrior Project and she has vowed to continue to support them - knowing her, she absolutely will. She's intuitive and loving in a way that you wish would rub off on everyone else…the world would be such a better place with more of her. Obviously, I'm a huge fan! As I always say, I am SO lucky to meet the people I do. My life is better because of them…all of them.

So here are some pictures of the bat mitzvah girl, her wonderful family and friends, and the celebration.

Daddy's litte girl

okay…so this picture is slightly out of focus…and I kind of love it like that!

Mama's baby

I do believe that brother was being a bit mischievous

Oh these kids are stylin' for sure!

they are the best…love these kids!

what princess doesn't love a twirly dress??

normally I'm not able to photograph the service itself, but this was different…it's so interesting!

sweet Grandpa

I think I need that headband

oh that beautiful baby and her hair!!! Can't take the cuteness

the young woman of the hour

the games at mitzvahs are serious business!!

brother is a throwback! He held that for a LONG time…made my arms hurt just watching him

fun and scary all wrapped into one…(seriously - how cute is she?!)