.Study in Color.

Farmscape Study

2012-02-06T08:59:00.001-06:00

Last year during the winter season my (at the time boyfriend) took me back to KY to spend time with his family and see where he spent his summers. Can I just say, I LOVE the countryside in Kentucky. Rolling green hills, silos, horses, woods, barns, and long stretches of small roads with wooden post fences. When you own a farm for a long time in a small town, it's almost like an estate or castle, it's dubbed whatever your last name is as it's title. For instance, the farm my husband's grandparents lived on for so long is known as the "W(last name)" Farm. So, whoever takes up residence respects the history and cordially allows family members to visit, and so that's what we did. The same house, with a wood burning stove, trails to the creek in the woods, and only a few new additions, such as renovations to the barn. It's one of my favorite memories when we were dating. The stories of adventures on the farm, and of course the romance of walking around the farm while listening to them, melted my heart. Growing up in a fast paced city, "Rocket City", Huntsville, a melting pot for families in the military, scientists, engineers, etc. , I always loved driving north to TN to visit my grandparents. The fresh air, miles of trees and green grass, mountains visible from the road, and beautiful land. The country always feels like home. For my husband who grew up out west near Las Vegas, the countryside is a dreamy place as well. A family resided here last year, from Philadelphia, but have moved into the nearby city. It pains me to know it's vacant, so it's been on my mind lately.

The next several paintings will be from photos of this farm and the one my husband's parents lived on while he was in high school in Kentucky. All of them will be on 9x12 multi-media paper with acrylic paints and hopefully become more expressive as I go, but we'll see. I love painting places that I can dream about living in, these will be the first of a like series.

Home Stretch

2012-02-03T12:27:00.000-06:00

Alot can happen in 9 months, trust me! Not only can you fall in love(which I found is very different from searching for a boy to fit a mold from a book I've read), but get married, start a family, and begin a completely new season of life altogether. My last day of teaching two years ago was the greatest day (at that time) of my career. Teaching inner city wee ones can take a huge toll on your...well, whole life. Venturing to Charleston,SC and the beautiful awaiting beach sands were all my heart could stand for what seemed a quick seven hour drive. There aren't words to describe how much my life changed within the next few days of arriving.. in an awesome way. Not only was I surprised to meet this charming,handsome guy, but he was not joking around with his intentions towards me once we got acquainted. It wasn't until I arrived back home that I concluded he wasn't going to just be my "vacation boyfriend"(not that I always had one)

Can I just say, the rest is history? Flowers, tiny little happy gifts in the mail, phone calls..of which many of the first were with much laughing from my end, not believing he could be serious. We were states away and barely knew each, no way! He was determined and certain, and lavished his charm,wit, and certainly accompanied by stubbornness to see this Memorial Day beach rendezvous through to the end. And even though I wasn't ready for him to know, I was too!

The sweetest day of my life, coupled with just two months later....

Can you believe we are all ever this tiny??! Throughout our dating,engagement, and early(early) days of marriage, discussing children was easy..we both wanted to trust God and see where He led us. You hear that "getting pregnant isn't as easy as you think"...right! We were so excited, elated, overwhelmed,thankful.. I could go on, the emotions were all over the place, especially mine. ;) Now we are awaiting this precious little girl's arrival into our family, of 9 months. God has transformed and grown us in ways we could have never imagined, in such a short time. He.is. faithful.

Here she is at 22 weeks. I'm already in love with this baby! Just a mere 7-9 weeks and she'll be making her grand entrance..or should I say exit? Needless to say, learning about pregnancy and all the nuances,loss of comforts(sleep,etc), nutrition,and prep for arrival, have all but consumed my mind. It's a crazy process, one I could never do alone. We are so excited and amazed at the blessings and joys God has given us in 9 short months. I could live w/out the nausea,sleeplessness,food aversions,"you SO big" comments, etc. BUT I wouldn't trade them for all the world in exchange for this precious life. Home stretch here we come!

Watercolor Pencil Love

2012-02-01T17:35:00.001-06:00

Watercolor Pencils 9x12

In classrooms teaching with these were somewhat simple. Always easier said than done, right? I loved being able to draw and then blend colors, but I'm not sure they'll become a staple in my art supply box. It was hard to not portray a cartoonish look in the painting, but nonetheless, I enjoyed creating it. The next eight to ten weeks (until I have little baby) my goal is to paint with these,acrylics,and papers for mixed media pieces new to my portfolio. Each week I'll post and give information on the inspiration and completed art piece. Of course, the one above, is inspired by my husband. I noticed alot of details about him while drawing, from his features, colors, and expression.

Latest in Art

2012-01-28T19:39:00.000-06:00

(gift commission)

acrylic on canvas

(gift commissions)

acrylic on canvas

Progress Made!

2012-01-26T14:58:00.000-06:00

Please forgive the random locations of each picture, but they were somewhat spontaneous, meaning, "oh,this week's almost over I need a picture of my belly!" The first trimester I wasn't into documenting too much, it was more about figuring out what in the world was happening to my body. ;p

20 weeks

25 weeks

29 1/2 weeks! and she is "head down" and doing great!

Thank You, I've noticed my belly too

2012-01-25T16:18:00.002-06:00

To kick off the third trimester of pregnancy I have heard a colorful variety of...lets call them comments.

Hope you are as entertained as I was,here are just a few(caveat, I laughed too,so don't feel bad,I'm enjoying my new size.)

" wow, you look different "
" hear about the pregnant lady who ran a marathon "(ps.what about the one that had a cracked pelvis afterwards featured on Runner's World?)

" you are radiant "

" you might need a crane to take you to the hospital "

" well so&so saw your picture and just couldn't believe how big you are "

" are you sure you aren't having twins "

" you look beautiful, I'm serious "

" whoa, you got some girth over there "

" you should walk everyday "

" when are you due? no way!! "

" well you look normal everywhere else "

And so consequently as my ~~(hormonal)~~ emotional side got the best of me, I called my sister after some tears and waited for encouragement. In a moment's time I was smiling and laughing. She shared some amazingly funny stories through carrying her four beautiful children. All of which weighed just 7lbs., despite her weight gain. Here is one that had me in tears. Just near her due date with her third child she was barely able to walk around. Baby was low and crowding the room needed to move around normally. So, as she ventured to the grocery she escorted herself to the mini-go-cart shoppers. The clerk eventually gave her a key to keep so she could scoot in and out as she pleased. We discussed healthy pregnancies, our dear mom, the nuances of our pop culture, and how truly biased the shape of a woman has been ingrained into our minds since childhood. ..and even through pregnancy. How have we come so far to miss this beautiful transformation? I pray our generation takes it back and women can enjoy every ounce and iota of their God given shape during pregnancy.

I finally bought "Girlfriends Guide to Pregnancy", and so far, so good. I've laughed out loud on several occasions while reading. Here is just a snippet, "If you are like me you have loving friends who will reassure you that your face hasn't changed at all,and that from the back you don't even look pregnant. They will say that you look healthier and more beautiful than ever. THEY ARE LYING. Sure pregnancy is adorable,but if you think it's your best look, just wait until you get your old look back and compliments start to flow- few people will come up to you and say, "I really miss your bump and big booty." ;p

This post is more than cynical, I know, but all in good humor for sure. As I round out the last trimester, and I mean ROUND it out, I hope to do it with strides of joy, not concern about my belly sticking way out. Praise the Lord my baby has plenty of room to swim around and be nurtured until she arrives. I couldn't be more thankful and excited and overwhelmed all at the same time. My amazing husband has been such a light, encouragement, rock, and best friend through it all. I feel like in his eyes I'm still looking like a princess.

(courtesy of JamieLarsonPhotography.com)

Art for Haiti Mothers

2012-01-24T12:49:00.000-06:00

Our pastor's wife recently joined a team to travel to Haiti. The same place I visited last year, the Caanan Orphanage/ Haiti Nutrition Clinic. The team, which also included my husband, spent hours sorting through medical supplies, records, organizing a pharmacy, and meeting local Haitians at the Nutrition Clinic. Most village mothers are taught that breastfeeding their babies will cause death or serious illness if the milk is a certain color. The taboo culture and folk tales have shaped too many families in Haiti, (re:article NY Times) causing malnourishment, self-detachment, abandonment, and confusion. Healthcare and/or health education is not an ordinary passing rite like here in the U.S. Our parents are telling us from the time we can walk about eating our veggies, resting, exercising, and most have more than their share of bonding time with us throughout our lives.

Upon return of their trip, the team regrouped and discussed what they observed and others shared what they hoped to do to make a difference. One being, education on breastfeeding for mothers. Somehow setting in motion a program or partnership to provide skills, materials, and hope for these families that result in early malnourishment due to lack of food. "One person can make a difference" is what my mom constantly told me when I faced challenges alone or ideas that placed me in the minority. I've taken that with me my whole life, and have reaped it's fruit many times. You soon realize, you're only alone in these epiphany moments for a short time, God provides the help you need along the way. I've had the privilege of helping my pastor's wife in a small way, through art. In turn, the art piece represents this idea of educating mothers in Haiti (empowering) and created to inspire partnerships and prayers for the endeavor. Donations are being accepted via City Arts Boutique in Woodlawn. Our church will be returning in March and I hope many more are inspired to make a difference there. I <3 Haiti.

Creative Life

2012-01-12T11:06:00.000-06:00

It's amazing how life changes and creates experiences to remember the rest of your life. This year ended with a joyous opening of a friend's art boutique, giving me a studio space and platform to sell paintings. The year began with my husband becoming part of the Air Force and joining their medical field. And, of course, our little baby girl on the way! (very on the way)

Fascination is one way to describe how I've observed, experienced, and been transformed(literally)into a mother-to-be. From eating with more than myself in mind, to nesting, to slowing down, to watching my body expand. There's not many words to express the way God divinely grows a child in the womb, only that HE DOES, and amazingly equips us women to carry the load.

All the recent life changes have placed my creative juices in high gear and now instead of anticipating what life changes will do or how they'll effect me, I'm welcoming them with excitement. As my pastor preaches he always prefaces scripture teaching with "it taking deep root in our hearts." Those are the roots that allow growth no matter where you are, what the situation, or duration of season may hold. The same roots also keep you nourished, vibrant, and hopeful in all things. I'm looking forward to the adventure of parenthood with my bestfriend and the changes life creates along the way.

Christmas Time Upon Us

2011-12-18T10:43:00.001-06:00

This morning a sweet email brought a huge smile to my face. My grandma-in-love(she invented this, no in-laws) bought livestock for (2) families in Sudan this year for Christmas. Of the portions, ducks were bought on our behalf for a Christmas gift. The livestock contributes towards commerce,food, and farming skills. It reminded me how turning these thoughts into actions (to give to the poor), make it a reality and bless our own spirits. Now I'm inspired to find a way to make it a tradition in our family. We're also going to gift a family in Sudan on their behalf. What a sweet and unexpected gift! These are the gifts that change lives and sear your memory with what truly counts during this season.

~Be blessed, be encouraged to give~ (World Vision)

(image from: Missionaries of Africa)

Angels We Have Heard

2011-12-06T16:17:00.000-06:00

Paintings inspired by angels here on earth and in heaven. Orders are being taken, for all sizes, with delivery. Several styles and colors at request as well!

Respond to post or email : ablake.amandablake@gmail.com

Seasons Continue

2011-11-30T11:12:00.003-06:00

As I begin to plan where the string of lights will go, pull out the Christmas bin full of decorations, conclude on a wreath decor, hang our stockings and play hymns, I have noticed how very pensive I have become. ..and how much I'm enjoying it. My spirit is learning the art of eucharisteo. ..being thankful. ..counting your blessings...all the time.

Inspired after reading "A Thousand Gifts" by a writer taking notice of life's gifts. There's more to take notice of and be thankful for this year than ever. .and it feels like joy. Some people dream of owning big houses, European vacations, or simply joining the Air Force.(probably the minority on this one!) The dreams stay dreams until we feel the light wind of God's grace leading us to the pursuit, one step at a time. I've always been cheered toward my dreams, it's amazing to be the one getting to cheer.

I love this airman,in his new nice duds. Never dreamed I'd be an Air Force wife. ..wow..let the adventures begin. .more on that later.

The past month has been a whirlwind, full of emotions, learning new things about a lot of different things, and pausing each moment and recognizing so much I have to be thankful for in the here and now. ..especially our little spaghetti squash in the oven, the little girl. It's unbelievable how fast this little life is growing inside, seriously!

If ever a time when the spirit slows down, marks off the lists, takes in the colors of the day, remembers to acknowledge people around them, and then take the fleeting moment to praise God in adoration, there's only joy there waiting. Not yourself or anybody else, just joy.

Nesting

2011-11-21T14:15:00.000-06:00

It's true, all I can do around here is organize, clean, plans for organizing and cleaning, and start and finish small house projects. It feels SO GOOD! Here are a few home improvements, via window decor. I can't come to a conclusion on curtains, so I've updated my blinds and roman shades.

The brown drab blinds are now a softer tone, with burlap, and not as transparent.

And the interior was all done with simply folding, and yes, a glue gun. These windows sit low between our neighbors house, so literally never are seen from the outside..I had to preface for the next picture because it's not exactly beautiful on the other side.

The next room was the bedroom and the roman shades. There used to be a cream color set, but after attempting to wash them, and failing (they fell apart-literally), and realizing I had to put something over my windows before going to bed... I used the parts and made my own roman shades. Nothing fancy.

And again, just a simple fold and the ever-so-reliable glue gun.

Also, started a onsie piece, for little girl. Not finished yet, but enough to show where it's going.

Finally, an older piece I just added some final touches to, although again, nothing fancy. Last year we bought new mattresses and didn't realize how high our box spring would sit in our bed frame. I had to almost catapult myself onto it. So my sweet husband crafted a stepping stool (which are impossible to find) and then I added the ticking stripe pillow with a burlap strap to secure it to the stool. It gives the room a hint of a rustic feel, which I love.

Off to nesting! There's always something to do right?

Homemade Advent

2011-11-18T11:03:00.001-06:00

Here is an Advent calendars that I have begun to study and will attempt to complete in the next week. Looks fairly simple, so I'm all over it! Perhaps a piece chocolate and reflective reading suggestion inside. Advent isn't another liturgical suggestion or church idea, it's a preparation of the heart to enjoy and savor this upcoming sweet season of Christmas.

I'll use burlap with a color number stamps, maybe red?

Advent is truly a season of waiting, hope, prayer (ie.reflection,repenting,etc.), and love...before celebrating the gift of Christ's birth. God's only Son. Life comes at us fast near the holidays, breathe in the fresh cool air and praise God for it. Don't worry about "compartmentalizing your day" for your Creator. Go ahead and meet with Him where ever you are and whatever you're doing.

It refreshed my spirit to read from Jared Wilson's new book, Gospel Wakefullness. (pp. 90-92) shared by Desiring God's Weekly Blog.

"Let us stake the flag of Christ's kingdom into the soil of our first waking moment. Drink your coffee when you get up, of course, but drink it to the glory of God. Then carry on in this way all day, no matter the task, be it menial or notable, so that each day may be a living prayer that God's will will be done on earth as it is in heaven. This is what it means to live a gospel-saturated life: it means being so conscious of the greatness of the gospel that changing diapers or cutting the grass is as much an act of worship as singing a praise chorus in a church service….

Jesus Christ is Lord over my heart, and he is Lord over my hands, and he is Lord over what I do with these hands, and he is Lord over what I say in my heart while I'm doing it. In submitting to the lordship of Christ, then, I do not treat washing dishes as wasting time I could be spending doing something "meaningful," but rather as a service to those who eat in my home, as a service to those who would have to wash the dishes if I did not, and as an offering of thanksgiving to God that I have food to eat, dishes to eat it on, and running water inside my home to clean with.

To paraphrase C. S. Lewis, there is not a square inch of our lives that is not claimed by God and counterclaimed by ourselves. If we believe God is sovereign, however, we will see all of life as mission and be led to submit the square inches we otherwise hold so tightly to the Maker of inches and hands."

Amen brother.

"I knit you together..."

2011-11-04T12:18:00.002-05:00

For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. Psalm 139:13

After three or four minutes of measuring and checking out every nook and cranny of this tiny being,we had to wait a minute or two in suspense to discover if we were having a boy or a girl. This little baby kept crossing HER legs, perhaps bashful already? It's amazing to see the arms moving around, the baby turning around, flipping, folding and unfolding her legs. ..and I couldn't feel a thing just yet. Maybe in a week or so those stretches and moving will be more evident. Hearing the heartbeat is always my favorite part of our Dr.'s visit. Which by the way, I love our Dr. We are beside ourselves with excitement, decorating the nursery, and praying this baby into the world! It's daunting with an overwhelming joy.

Psalm 23:1-3

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures.

He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul.

He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

The baby is due April 6th, just two days after my mom's "entering eternity" anniversary. We stopped by her place of rest last week while traveling to Georgia. Every turn of the season my sisters and I replace her flower arrangement. We promised we would, and she wanted that, so it's always an honor. I spent extra time revealing my sorrow to the Lord while we there, and remembering how full of life that woman was and passed on to her children. I quietly told her all about our little baby on the way...even though she is at eternal rest.. it was nice to even imagine sharing with her all our excitement. I already know she would be an amazing grandmother. She was to my sister's oldest kids and they loved her dearly. Now, I have to become a better storyteller and try to help our children "know" who their grandmother was, despite her absence. It's a somber place to be, but it's so healthy for my spirit to allow the new seasons to grow and bring healing to my soul. Each change of the season brings new memories. I'm not sure why, but I'm so thankful for how God creatively ordained such change in the weather,sky, landscape, smells, and colors, all with us in step as well.

Making Memories

2011-10-13T18:30:00.001-05:00

First things first, new art post at http://acottagenest.wordpress.com/ . In other news, my honey took me on a mini-vacation, with promises of little work upon arrival. There are pros and cons to being able to take your work with you where ever you go. ;p Our first stop was with my sister and her family in the mountains of Georgia. This is the most beautiful time of year to be outside, by campfires telling stories, and making smores'.

Jacob wants to sing and write music..he already does. I'm so proud of him and can't believe how fast he's grown up to a young man who loves the Lord.

Michael (at the tree, learning the ways of manhood) ;)

Andrew telling his "campfire" story about the great big gorilla from the hills of Kentucky. My brother-in-law, Mike, enjoying the tall, tall, tale.

Listening...wondering if Uncle Andrew is telling the truth..as he claims.

Fishing on the pier..was great. My sister and I spent all day, chatting about life, and actually waiting for a bite..all day.

Mr.Sweetiepie

Bright sunshine...here we come.

We headed to the low country, Charleston,S.C.,Andrew's second home.

We visited the station of our first date. All the beach front walks are stations, this is station 19.

My sister joined us and took a few pictures for us before trying her new "adventure" cam. I'll try to find a link to her site with all her action shots. We had a great time and loved strolls on the beach one more time this year. The weather was perfect.

Thanks for stopping by, happy fall sweet friends!

Flea Market

2011-09-28T10:05:00.004-05:00

While growing up we frequently visited my Maw-maw's Flea Market downtown. Next door at White's Barber Shop always awaited a friendly "hello" by Mr.White as I made my way straight to the bottled coke machine. This was routine from age six until college every time I was there. Maw-maw kept her scattered dollars and change in a cigar box, with a small calculator nearby. I loved rummaging through the store for hidden treasures. My big score was when I found a 1970's harpsichord, in it's old case. Even though it needed some repair, it was a unique find and I couldn't wait to take it home. In the very back of the shop there was a huge open space,like a garage, with a gravel floor. It was stacked to the walls full of old knick-knacks and what nots. I loved beaming through it every time to see if I had missed something before, something of great value. Most of Maw-maw's costumer's were those who lived near downtown. They would bring a pocket of change or a few dollars and buy clothes,glassware, or any basic necessity for cheap. My mom would bring in items from yard sales and (to my surprise)sometimes clean out my closet to refurbish the clothing stock. I learned not to "love" all my stuff at that point. Even though I didn't love the lesson at the time, I can appreciate it now. Besides, my mom was always so generous to restock my closet as well. The place was a gem to say the least. This past weekend we visited a giant flea market in Nashville. All the smells, small antiques, furniture, bargains, "junk", and people reminded me of my childhood. I felt like a flea marker veteran walking down all the aisles, snobbing the mass produced booths, the gimmicks, and advertisements. Then of course, spending alot of time in the corner marketers booths with rusty, old metal hand-carved stamps, dusty antique kitchen tools, spools of thread with the original price tag from years and years ago. All the while noticing the antiquity of the seller, and the charm of their presence. I loved the experience and can't wait to visit another one. My mom would have come home with a truck load full of treasures...and sold it again with the story of why she bought it.

Apple Harvester

2011-09-18T10:31:00.000-05:00

Wednesdays

2011-08-31T14:13:00.000-05:00

Inspired by the Victorian Era.

Emmy at the Beach

2011-08-30T16:49:00.000-05:00

A fun gift for my sister's birthday

Remembering Jane

2011-08-29T17:31:00.000-05:00

Acrylic on canvas 20x24

Lovelies! The painting bug is back and I'm trying a variety of themes to kick off the season. Aside from the new blog(uh-em..do please "suscribe")...my corner studio is in need of creative space organization. Any ideas?

I'm moving

2011-08-17T16:20:00.000-05:00

I've loved this blog, seriously, it has been a great outlet. But as far as the design/posting goes, it could be better(with more options). So, I'm reinventing my blog elsewhere. It will be more focused on my artwork and creative meanderings so keep following faithful bloggies! I'm sure it's just as easy to follow as it was here. My new cozy space is http://acottagenest.wordpress.com/ Be sure to check it out, although it is still in process!

Under the Tree

2011-08-12T12:09:00.000-05:00

Some of the sweetest memories I have of childhood are being outside. Everyday. Especially at school, there sat a large oak tree in the grass area of the black top track. That tree's shade always marked A "finished" time around. The P.E. teacher stood there to give you your star sticker as you passed ("but keep going") I remember attaining 19 star stickers. When the running was over I could stop in that tree's shade and feel the cold ground beneath it. That sweet rest made the hard work worth it. Today marks the day of the beginning of a run,not necessarily with a finish line, or sweating, or going anywhere. Since I've married (just over 2 months) painting has come scarcely. Now that we're a bit more settled here the bug has returned. The ideas for paintings are born from inspiration, interiors, and old rustic imagery. There's never a time I see an old sign on a wall downtown, or pass a flea market full of rustic items and I don't think, "yes! I like it." So here's to the start of many more paintings for 2011.

Shepherd

2011-07-31T09:24:00.002-05:00

Our beautiful new addition. A black, 7 week old, goldendoodle. His name is Shepherd. The second day has proved the rave reviews of this mix breed. He has been great! Perhaps we have the "pick" of the litter as far as personality goes, but he's very smart too. Gentle, cuddly, and so sweet. After discussing having a dog while we were engaged and much more this month we decided to take the plunge. A nice couple from the country roads of Pell City breed goldendoodles and in his words, "ain't too particular about making money off the dogs as much as finding them a good home." The hope is to train him well, and look into therapy programs for children, either in the hospital or that have special needs or disabilities. We both have a heart to use this new addition in a way that will bring others joy. We are having alot of fun and can not get over how docile and cooperative he has been so far. Lets just hope it stays this way for awhile and we can skip the "terrible 2's" that most puppies go through. ;p

Shepherd's mom and dad.

Newlywed Excursion

2011-07-28T11:19:00.002-05:00

Does that say, "Graveyard Ridge Trail", since you nearly die hiking it?

The man doing some creek crossing checks before giving me the go-ahead to follow. I felt like I was with someone who lived in the wilderness and knew exactly what to check for along the trail. Male instincts?

Of course, it's only 10pm, muggy/hot, and way beyond any idea of a 3-mile hike we could have ever envisioned making with huge packs on our backs. A kodak moment if you ask me. We surprisingly really are as happy as we look, despite the trudge and climb that kicked our butts on the trail. It took nearly 4 hours to reach our site. I romanticized the whole adventure anyway and took my mind off how hard it really was. At the last creek crossing I finally told Andrew...who was taken-back at the thought and chuckled. .."really,romantic?" Yes! When your man hoists you across the streams, guards you, protects you, and leads the charge...or takes out his man-knife there's a certain aspect of romance and charm not found in the movies. He laughed at me again. ;p

This is where we were, right in the middle of the Smoky Mountains, somewhere. It's called "32", but it truly is carved out of the middle of the forest. Trees,wildlife(did I mention we saw a bobcat, bear, bear cubs,and a rattlesnake yet?), and lots of water streams. Each crossing held it's own charming beauty, with amazing sounds and character.

The boots after our long hike... look tired?

The day after. What says ahhh better than coffee at campside and to prove ~~to all your friends~~ to yourself it was worth it?

Admittedly, this whole backcountry excursion was my idea. The waterfalls, the drive, hiking,wildlife sightings, and sounds you never hear at home made it an amazing get-away. Who knew these amazing mountains would be so breathtaking. Sad to say I always considered it something for a tourist in the south..not so! We have ~~big~~ better plans to prepare for our next trip.

Lookout Smokies, we have just gotten warmed up!

What I Missed

2011-07-24T09:44:00.000-05:00

The reception at my wedding. I loved talking with everyone, but missed any sights of the arrangement beyond my peripheral. Thanks to our photographer, dear friends of ours, now I know. I have not been able to stop looking through our wedding photographs.

This looks very serious. We didn't see each other until the ceremony, so this was fun to see too!

A candid shot taken after finally "striking a pose" for the camera. Fun times!

The moments I hope to never forget. Being surrounded by loved ones, my man at my side, and our future ahead of us. I have never felt so loved in all my life, aside from that amazing day. Thank you everyone for helping us and praying for us. The journey begins!