sigh... Isn't she lovely? This is tiny Leah on Day 9 since making her appearance in this world:

Leah was wide awake when I first arrived, and she didn't particularly enjoy the infernal clicking of my shutter. After mugging for the camera and snuggling with her mom, she settled in for a good nap and the fun really began:

Leah doesn't fully realize it yet, but God has entrusted her to exceptionally nice parents....

.... and friendly furry siblings....

How fun are things about to get in this household?! I'm so glad you let me barge in and capture these portraits of your beautiful daughter, Gina and Jared. I feel privileged to have a front-row seat for the blessings that are sure to unfold.

Praise the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ

for the spiritual blessings that Christ has brought us from heaven!

Ephesians 1:3 CEV

Yay! Blogger finally let me share some pics with you AND they're huge! I guess these past few days of frustration were worth it after all.

Rachel is an awesome up-and-coming vocalist (according to my son Tyler who knows about these things). We're sure to see and hear her doing great things in days to come:

Thanks for being such a good sport on that crazy afternoon in Austin, Rachel. I'm glad I finally got to meet you, and I hope these portraits will come in handy for your portfolio and countless news articles about you: The Next Big Thing!

God Most High, I will rejoice;

I will celebrate and sing because of You.

Psalm 9:2 CEV

AARGH! I have photos I'd love to post for everyone to see, but Blogger is being cantankerous. Hang in there and keep checking back!

xoL

I just returned from visiting my "home away from home" -- Seattle and Vashon Island WA, where my parents, brother and sister-in-law live. During my kids' growing up years, we spent two to three weeks there every summer, and the kids assumed everyone visited their grannies in Seattle. The beauty of the area is addicting, so don't visit once if you have no intention of making lots of return trips!

I had fun taking lots of non-portrait shots for a change, beginning with this abandoned greenhouse on Vashon that my husband Curtis and I first noticed about 23 years ago:

Snoqualmie Falls is another long-time favorite place:

Here are some shots I took from the backseat while Daddy drove down Seattle's I-5 at sunset:

The only way to reach Vashon Island is by boat. Most folks rely on the ferry system, but not this guy:

Finally, here's a glimpse of those folks I traveled so far to see:

I forgot to mention two more important family members. Meet Bear:
...and Dexter:

And last but not least, the few roses not snacked on by the deer boldly roaming Vashon:

I had a wonderful time with you, my dear Shepherds. Comfy-er couches could not be found in all the world!

Love is more important than anything else.

It is what ties everything completely together.

Colossians 3:14 CEV