I just cannot say enough terrific things about this wedding I was honored to second shoot this past fall.  Really about the bride and groom…they were just lovely.  And gracious.  The venue at Swann Lake Stables was the perfect backdrop for the breathtaking fall afternoon.  I’ll let the pictures do the talking.

I haven’t done a personal post in a while in this space.  When I do, it’s usually day-in-the-life type stuff of my girls.  But, I wanted to document my Whole 30 experience a bit here as well.  For those of you who may be unfamiliar check this out for a detailed explanation.  I have lots of reasons for choosing to try this.  Always tired.  Feel bloated and yuck after eating.  Jeans are too tight.  Exercise and weight train, but don’t ever lose weight.  Feel like I am completely addicted to comfort food which for me goes something like this: french fries, bread, pizza, wine, fried chicken, pasta, coffee with cream and sugar, Five Guys…you get the idea!  I have been using food for pleasure WAY too much, and not for nourishment.  I needed to stop all of it cold turkey (which is Whole30 compliant, I might add!).

Today is day 19.  For anyone thinking about doing this, it has not been easy at all!  But nothing worthwhile is.  It is almost midnight, and I am not tired.  I have had a cold for three days and it hasn’t taken me down.  My jeans are loose.  My brain cloud is lifting.

So, just for fun…a few things that have gotten me this far!

{a}. Mason jars:  for all the homemade mayo and sauces you will be making to flavor up your meals

{b}. Immersion blender: to make that yummy mayo

{c}.Rick’s Picks Pickles: these are a really tasty snack (check your ingredients, not all pickles are created equal)!

{d}.Lara Bars: though these are compliant, it is suggested they be used sparingly.

{e}. Tazo Passion Tea: delightfully refreshing served with a few frozen strawberries and a lime wedge ( would be much tastier with a couple of spoons of sugar, just sayin’)

{f}.Back to Nature Cashews: these are great because they are dry roasted; the only ingredients are cashews and sea salt (available at my Publix)

{g}.Frozen strawberries: for those of you who have trouble drinking plain water, this is a game changer!  Infuse that water with frozen berries (or oranges or pineapple!)

Please share what you would add to this list!!

Both of these little ladies turned a year older over the summer.  I’ve been wanting to capture their adventurous personalities in a fun way.  Last night, Fall was in the air for the first time, and we went for it.  A little bribery had to happen, but once we arrived at our spot and they saw the tent and flowers and books they were all in.  Even said it was the best part of the day!  I sure love them so!

I really love these great, big family summer beach gatherings!  I’m thankful for all my wonderful beach sessions and the great weather we had for each one.  No rainouts!  This family belongs to my beautiful friend, Sarah.  I had the privilege of photographing her little family on the beach last summer, and this summer we added grandparents, brothers, sisters, nieces, and nephews!  All the little ones surprised Grandpa with some rad tees in his honor at the end of the session!  How precious are they?!!