the photography of laura jane

Downtown Adventures~ Thank you!

2011-11-29T13:30:00.005-07:00

Shanannigans with Love.

2011-11-29T13:14:00.007-07:00

True Beauty, Shared.

2011-11-24T21:49:00.003-07:00

It was an honor to take these photos, but an even greater honor to know these women since I was young myself.

Mother, daughters, sisters... friends.

The day we took these photos it was one of the coldest in our new winter season. So between warming up in the vehicle and at the coffee shop these ladies spent time together like I have seen so many times at so many family functions, casual get togethers and warm embraces over the years. They told each other how beautiful they are (and they are!). They laughed with each other and sometimes at each other (like sister's and mom's do!). They reflected at how close they are, and how they are close enough to take life's blows and stand back up, together.

This day we took these photo's is one of the best examples of why I love doing what I do because instead of just taking photo's I got to witness another precious memory for this family and it is now captured for years to come.

Thank you so much, it means a lot to me as I hope it will for all of you!

Family Ties.

2011-10-17T22:58:00.006-06:00

This was one of the most unique family photo's I've done, in all good ways! It is fun when people venture off the beaten path to get creative in a meaningful way for family photos. We ventured to a vehicle/equipment museum, the Yoho museum by Peers AB, that neither party had been to before. There were more antique vehicles in this place than I had seen before, and most were all original. A true gem, and for this family their is a special connection to the history of such a place.

These young kids breathed new life into the old vehicles presence and had a fun time doing it! They ran, they laughed, they played, and they posed. Then we went to a park nearby, and they did it all over again! A memorable time captured, past preserved. Thank you so much for letting me be a part of it! This was a lot of fun and I'd do it all over again.

An Autumn Walk Through the Neighborhood.

2011-10-06T13:35:00.007-06:00

So I have a bit of a confession. This is a family that I've wanted to take photos of for a long time. As a Photographer, I can't really go around town asking families to hire me directly. I have to put myself out there and then wait and hope they like my work and decide that they want a piece of the art I hope to provide.

Well, of course timing is everything, and this Mom has perfect timing. I've seen consistently how hard she works in this community over time to volunteer for different causes and needs and I was thrilled when she put effort together to donate to our local spray park through an auction fundraiser that I was glad to contribute to. Such hard work has gone into providing a great community for not only her children, but everyone's. Thank you so much!

On the day I came to this house it was slightly misty, the kind of day that could get better or worse. I felt like I was in England in this family's yard with the weather and the perfect hedge and the brick paths. And might I add, a perfectly behaved dog that sat so nicely in on the family photo. My own pup could learn a thing or two! We headed out for a walk through parks and woods and the children bounded about. I'm telling you, it felt as much from an English country side setting as it sounds! At least to me it did. A very fun time, thank you so much!

A New Wee One.

2011-10-05T13:12:00.005-06:00

Oh, how I love puppies! I am such a sucker for them. I was thrilled when this little one came along for some family photos for some pet-ography as the newest addition. I could have taken her home after, too. We had this exact puppy growing up and they are so perfect for families.

There is something very nostalgic about fall time, and after a fresh rain, the damp earthy scent in the forest we walked through felt soothing. It occurred to me that I watched this family grow over the last few years on film and that is a neat thing to see. They have become sweet friends that I love very much! These girls are turning into little ladies and I enjoy the memories our families share together. Thanks ~K family!

Skip, Jump and Run because it's so Fun.

2011-10-03T17:23:00.008-06:00

The fun thing about living in a town is that you get to know families in so many ways. Schoolmates, friends, caregivers, neighbors, friendly faces. This family fits for a few of these and have become something I smile about when I think of our home town.

This spot by the river, besides being on private land, seems like a bit of a secret. So much to explore and do in one little place. Watching this family do that reminded me of how sweet some of our days can be with the same silliness and curiosity I see in my own family. What a gem they all are!

Thank you so much for letting me have the pleasure to capture some memories on this afternoon!

A Stroll on Main Street.

2011-09-21T21:39:00.007-06:00

These two have been in love for awhile and now they've decided to get hitched! When I heard the news I was so thrilled, especially after spending time with them and having a friendship grow over the past (almost) year. It isn't always that you meet people that leave you feeling energized, inspired and happy. It's nice to know we (my husband and I) have friends like this, and that together we can spend more time making memories over the years as this couple makes their next step.

Speaking of making memories, I met up with them in a town they don't live in for these photos and we went from there. It was a lovely adventure and this is definitely a top main street I've ever seen for interesting things and lovely backdrops- then again, that could just be the company I was with!

Here we are, the future Mr&Mrs.

Autumn Dream.

2011-09-20T22:03:00.003-06:00

This was the autumn day that was every photographer's dream. Just the right temperature- not too windy and cold or hot and sunny... just right. Just right for sweaters, adventures and smiles for the changing seasons.

We ventured down a trail I haven't been before and it was beautiful. There was evidence of a few bears who thought these woods were great for strolling in too, but we didn't actually see any. We did find a lot of cheese (CHEESE!!!) and some silliness though.

Thanks for the beautiful morning ~H family, twas delightful!

Sweet T (cont'd)

2011-08-23T19:47:00.004-06:00

So, I had to add three more here, just because! I always go back and forth between loving color photos and black and white photos, right now I'm going through a B&W phase, maybe, so I wanted to share a few more.

Enjoy :)

Sweet ~T

2011-08-23T14:36:00.005-06:00

Oh, all the new baby joys this summer! I love the little bundles.

Introducing baby T, so pink and perfect! And her big sister was just as squish-able. I absolutely loved this adorable family. We took an hour to capture this cute family in their cozy lakeside home. I miss these days with my own two, hanging out and getting to know the new addition. Thanks for the peak and the flashbacks, guys!

Hi Folks!

2011-08-03T13:36:00.003-06:00

Hey bloggity bloggy followers!

So, My youngest turned one two months ago. Yup. I am pretty sure time fly's really super duper fast. Around the time little Mabel turned one, I decided to completely separate my personal blog entries from client/photography related entries, so I created a new personal blog. I'm not going to hide it, it is http://creamydreamysoapdish.blogspot.com/ , but please note (disclaimer!!!) that anything and everything over there has nothing to do with my photography business end of things and is not a reflection or in any way connected to my work here. You enter at your own risk :) Oooo, you risk taker, you! My last entry there was about bub's Bday and I will probably soon be blogging about our recent month long trip to California and back (and everything in between). But, there will be other entries, and more personal too. Anyway... back to things at hand.

I have had a wonderful, refreshing and memorable chunk of time off and now I am looking forward to getting back to things at hand here. I am going to start organizing and updating websites and FB pages mid month, and will likely start taking clients again around then, also. I will not be over-booking and space will be limited the first couple months as I get back into the swing of things, and I think you for your patience. Keep your eyes open for updates, contests and more here :)

I wanted to also end this little ol' entry with a couple pictures (I know, personal stuff here when I have the new personal blog- but it's photography related, I swear! :) ) of my gorgeous, brand-spankin' new baby nephew, born not even two weeks ago! LOVE HIM! So sweet to see my little brother's family grow! We stopped by on our way home from holidays when he was (technically) still only one day old. WHY can't I have a personal jet to fly over and hold him every morning? Distance between families sucks sometimes.

Thanks for poppin' by the blog!

~LJ

New Baby for the ~M family.

2011-08-02T20:41:00.004-06:00

I absolutely adore these guys. You have seen these frequent ~M family folks on previous blog entries, and this is the newest addition, baby ~R. She is so sweet and quite different than her older siblings. I absolutely love this about families, how unique and different every individual is. I have been having so much fun getting to know the older two, I can't wait to get to know baby ~R over time, too.

Thanks for having me over, despite my post- road trip, disheveled self, ~M family!

Baby Bump

2011-05-28T00:31:00.003-06:00

So, my baby brother is having another baby. I love this little bigger family! They are also moving into their first owned home this weekend. It is so sweet and nice to see what my brother has made of his life, I'm a proud older sister. I remember 'making a deal' with him when we were younger that if he'd play house first, then I'd play Tonka trucks. I always bailed (sorry bro! older siblings have their ways, I guess?)- but it's so nice to see B living the real thing. He is a good partner and father. I am a thankful sister, to have him and his fam jam in my life. Love you guys! J, you look radiant! Best wishes over the next chapter in your lives.

Retro Cheesecake Workshop.

2011-05-06T23:29:00.005-06:00

So, I've obviously not been posting photos for a few months. I have been organizing and shooting, and have a bit to share- but before I share everything I just wanted to fast forward to these photos I took a couple of weekends ago. I couldn't wait to get through everything. These are from a workshop I took from the talented Amber Lee . Dream! I'm, like a few others, a little obsessed with this era.

I hope to one day run my own pin-up marathon- it'll be awhile, so many many projects on the go and in the making right now. On the back burner, this cheesy dream will be cooked up one day! All week after participating in the workshop, I just wanted to go back to that afternoon- it was as fun as the big cheesy grins the models are sporting- oh yes!

Hope your spring is going well, mine is busy busy and fun fun!

Until next time,

L.

Young Love.

2011-02-15T14:14:00.006-07:00

On Mike's side, ~J is the first born grandchild and our eldest niece. Over the years I have gotten to know ~J as she has turned into a lovely young lady. They live a bit (too) far away, but we always pack our visits in with love and laughs.
~J is sweet, generous, kind and has a huge heart. She is thoughtful ( and makes a mean java!), considerate and now- she's in love! Her sense of humor and excitement made for a giggly and cute afternoon. ~D is her soon-to-be and he's been doing the proper courting rituals of bringing flowers and making ~J happy. It was so nice to meet ~D, I can't wait for the family memories to happen with him too.
~J & ~D, I am SO happy for you, and am excited to see where your life goes from here. Love you!

A Sweet Valentine on the way?

2011-02-07T00:57:00.004-07:00

This weekend was a whirlwind of splendor, activity and love! I have SOOO much to share- oh squeal!- but Wendy's are first because I am excited and also she is due in just over a week. It is kind of funny that lately every time we trek over the border to BC to visit Mike's family, dear Wendy has been pregnant each time. So this will be the third. We only had a couple of minutes to take a handful of photos this time- but hey, traditions must be kept!

Keep posted in the next few days- when I said activities, I meant it! All in one day, too :)

Normal Day.

2011-01-29T23:40:00.004-07:00

Mabel's first swim... her first toboggan ride, where she lives for each and every experience as it's happening. Mika's need for love and guidance in this huge universe, for a sense of peace and safety. Mike's obsession with things and plowing, and never wanting to be without his girls. Ranger's need to belong to a pack, to live for company. And me... me, always caught between some dream world and reality. Wanting desperately to hold on to every moment but understanding that not a single thing is permenent. We are barreling through life and making our way and one day, like I have for so many already, we'll look back and remember this time as a time when we were truly the richest people on earth.

~photo journal short~

2011-01-28T00:19:00.003-07:00

"Hey Mabel! Whatcha' doin'?"

(Mabel looks over with glee)

"How do you like your book?! (tickle tickle)"

(Mabel giggles)

(Peak-a-boo game commences. More giggling.)

Oh gosh. Afternoons are delightful around here lately.

(okay mom, can we go eat now?)

K family.

2011-01-28T00:06:00.005-07:00

It's so nice to know such wonderful people exist in the town I live in. This family has become so special and dear to me and mine.

When we headed out to the park for a Canadian winter adventure, we sure got one! We ended up battling deep snow covering most of the play ground and dodging (almost literally!) a grater plowing the parking lot and streets. We ended with fresh baked cookies Mom brought and a tobaggan play on the hill. Perfect afternoon in my books! Thanks K family!

Winter Snow and Shine.

2011-01-27T23:33:00.007-07:00

Every year, like so many people at Christmas, we exchange names. This year I got my brothers name and he got mine. I got him a power tool and some cooking spices and he got me a gift I hadn't thought about wanting for some time. Snowshoes!

So, a brief tutorial from the tag and I was off! Since this first trip, there have been many more. I love them more than I thought I would. I thought I'd get exercise. I didn't realize I'd discover and connect- and fall in love with how winter is. Winter is quite and calm. It is peaceful and harsh at the same time. It is eerie and sparkly. It may at first seem lifeless, colorless and dull but when you look closer it is a sleeping beauty. Color will pop in the small, right places. Texture and shape will form.

... and then Ranger will run by me and scare the bajeebees out of me and I'll realize I was in the bush too long taking pictures and my kids might need me. Ha ha.

The shoes.

The deep snow.

The dog tying to look like a wolf and doesn't realize how goofy he actually looks.

Moi.

Color.

Nature has a way of breaking what does not bend. (~Jewel)

Moss.

Winter Leisure, yes please!

A couple weeks later, and a big dump of snow. Mike is plowing. My snow shoe trail to the right is barely visible.

Mike's birthday onesie- you know you want one in your size!

Mabel snug in her onesies.

The ladies cuddling.

Chinook! Play time.

Feed the kids!

2011-01-27T22:15:00.005-07:00

Oh, time to feed Mabel her solids! Like every milestone, it is sad and exciting. Mostly exciting! (and funny! A sour face even for the stuff she likes!)

We discovered Mabel doesn't have a tummy for oatmeal, doesn't have a desire for rice cereal, but loved the green beans! YES!!! She is officially 100% my child! :)

We've also tried messy, staining blueberries, mushy bananas and tart apple sauce. Sweet potatoes and chickpeas are probably next. I know, not the recommended order, but we had a few hang ups.

A little tutorial for anyone who want's to know how to make homemade baby food:

1. Rinse and chop into halves (chop ends off)

2. Steam.

3. Blend beans with a small amount of water to a smooth consistency.

4. Place in ice cube trays, cover with saran wrap. Freeze. Place in freezer bag and date. Each cube is an infant serving :) Easy pea-sy!

Blueberries. Every spoonful is interceded with the almost opposable finger Mabe's loves so much.

Wait for it... -PURE SATISFACTION!

And this is how I sneak spinach into Mika. Now you see it, now you don't!

More spinach, in my eggs! Mika won't eat it like this.

A Cup of Tea (it Holds History).

2011-01-27T21:55:00.003-07:00

The weather was cold this January, and Mika had been asking for a few days for a tea party. She wanted it to be a real one, a fancy one. One with Grandma Lucy's cups.

It has been one year this Christmas since Grandma passed away. I hadn't yet brought out the cups. The cups had been dispersed amongst our family unceremoniously, except for one. One cup had been asked to be given to Mika. Mika is Grandma's first born great grandchild. I'm not sure if that is why the cup was for her. But the story of this cup is that it is Grandma's one possession she has carried with her through life. Grandma was a frugal person, who lived through WW2 and who knew how much you could live on so little, and what was truly important. Grandma had a wisdom with her through her experiences, and always had a way of saying things to put life into perspective. Over a cup of tea.

So, on this cold day, Mika layed out Grandma's linen that came with the china. She then proceeded to put on the fanciest outfit in her closet. She got her pinky ready to extend with every sip. I sat down with our cups. Mika then questioned my appearance (it was Saturday morning- what can I say?) and I felt like a bad guest at her table, definitely not fit for a Queen to arrive.

Mika cherished her sugar with some tea, and I opted for the sugarless route. Despite me dreading the feelings that would come up, I was pleasantly surprised. In my cup came peace. In my cup, I felt connection. And yes, for this moment, life was put into perspective. Over a cup of tea.

I think more tea parties are in our future, and soon!

Oh, what are cold days for? Spontaneous photo shoots, I say!

2011-01-27T21:13:00.003-07:00

Oh my girls. What can I say. It was time again (wait- when is it not time?) to take some pictures. When I first embarked upon photography, it was solely for this purpose- to take pictures of my family. What grew into a passion is history. I feel lucky that this year I get to bring it back to the basics of where I started, and capture these memories that pass too fast.

So, on this particular photo shoot- Mika wanted to keep the helmet on and Mabel wanted to take the hat off (I wanted the opposite). We found a happy medium and the girls became the princess they already are (thanks for the floofy over the top dresses, Hope!). Mika had a secret for Mabel (sometimes it's better not to ask questions- I have no idea what that was about, it wasn't part of the shoots theme, ha ha). We just had a fun time!

There is this blue trunk Mike had a as a kid, and when Mika was Mabel's age, I painted it (it was in rough shape) in an ocean theme, and we walked her little baby feet across the sand on the top. Years later, my what a lovely girl she has grown into! Time flys and it gets away on us... but on this day, I got to cherish the gems I have. I am grateful.

The M family is growing!

2011-01-27T20:45:00.004-07:00

Oh, the M family! It has been a couple years since little (and I mean little!) ~C was born. ( his pictures here: premmie, baby, toddler. )

Well, it just so happens that two days before my own Miss Mabel was born, this family had another (smidgen early!) baby- little C's sister S! She is cute as a button too. LOVE her! And oh, this family with their beautiful eyes! I love coming back to their home... it's busy, but there is so much love. In fact, as I was leaving Mom said they are expecting a number three- can't wait! But right now, a sweet little S and her big brother (who refers to her as Sissy- break my heart!).

Baby Roll

2011-01-27T10:09:00.004-07:00

Hey all! Just trying out the blog with bigger pictures on Mabel's baby rolls. Will be posting a few entries in the next day or two! LOTS to catch up on! Yay for photos! Also, I am redoing the Facebook page, it's a little more than outdated as I head back into taking photos in the next few months, so don't mind it. Will be up and running better in a few! I hope the winter weather is finding you cozy and snug.

Thanks!
~L

phood!

2011-01-06T13:59:00.009-07:00

Phood. My sad attempt of a title in coming up with photos and food. A little applause please!

Anyway. Food is interesting. There is so much meaning to food. I have both negative and positive associations with it. I'm betting on some level, everyone does. (For instance, my husband loves to trick people into eating wassabi. Good for you if you love this stuff straight up. I don't).

And oh the art of cooking food! In this area, I had for years not understood and in fact dreaded the act of doing. I loved the product, but not the journey. That was until I started to make things interesting and how I like them. Unlike much of Canada, I am not by nature a meat and potatoes kind of person. In fact, I am technically pesctiarian (No land animal, but some sea food). It's not a personal thing, it's just the way I am I guess. That's a whole other post actually.

This is my first food post, and I hope to share a few down the line. These are some random pictures of things I have made in the last month or so, or things others have served to me. Oh, food is such a great social custom, and I always am so thankful when I receive some and feel much loved. Following those photos is a step-by-step to my new favorite, rice paper wraps! I have made them before, but after visiting Mini Mango in Edmonton with my friend Chantal, I feel I have close to perfected them with a few tips from this restaurant.

Enjoy!

(Oh, and a PS- some photos are not photography worthy- what can I say, I may have had a glass of wine during the season!)

Mushroom/swiss burgers (no meat). I made them one evening. Not so exciting, but a picture none the less.

Salmon bun with spinach. Was so good!

Mini cupcakes from Chantal and Kyla. Oh, the joy of mini things, and Fuss Cupcakes!

Christmas cookies from Janine and Crystal- thanks friends!

A custom drawing on whiteboard, by Mika. Mike thought we were changing Mabel on the table, but no that is a turkey (Mika corrected).

Crystal's Eat, Drink and Be Merry! Christmas Fondue. Thanks for having us!

At the family get together, Kyle felt bad I didn't have a roast. I didn't! He made me a splendid gourmet omelet. Mmmm!

Meagan made a tomato zucchini bake- best ever!

Bri is pointing with his knife to my portion of bacon free brocolli cheese casserole. Yum!
(and at this point, my eyes were bigger than my stomache)

More cupcakes for all the December Birthdays!

Mom and her wine, Rylan and his cake. I'll take one of each, please!

A non food photo of Mika and her heels.

And now, a most excellent step by step for Rice Paper Wraps!

You will need:

lettuce
carrots
bean sprouts
rice (seasoned however you like, ours was teriyaki) or vermicelli
shrimp (or tofu, chicken, beef...)
rice paper
clean water
ETA: Peanut Dip Sauce- a MUST! :)

Chop carrots and lettuce.

Prepare shrimp or whatever you choose. Steam bean sprouts.

Get rice paper ready. When you lay rice paper, make sure you are aware of what side is rough and what side is smooth. The rough side will be the inside of the wrap, to grip the food.

Place dipping sauce in holders.

To roll:

Place one paper on a clean surface. Wet both sides, but do not soak (so a few table spoons, enough to cover all surface)

Wait approximately a minute or two. You do not want it absolutely soaking or it will break easily, but you want it completely maleable.

Lay on a more dry surface (at this point, I would add the second paper to the first surface to start it soaking while I completed the wrap).

Lay your ingredients in a log format. You want approx an inch and a half from the ends of your log left over. Tip: Less is more, or it will be hard to wrap it without a big mess. I did veggies, rice then shrimp. (Make sure if you have bean sprouts, they lay in the same direction end to end, and same with vermicelli noodles)

Fold ends in.

Flip bottom half up

In a smooth motion, tightly roll the log the rest of the way, securing the last end down. Place it on a clean platter or plate to set (approx 5 minutes- it becomes stickier and easier to manouver into dipping sauce.)

Enjoy!

You're Welcome to 2011.

2011-01-06T00:28:00.006-07:00

Oh look at my last entry. So long ago. It's time to end my posts with "Until next time!" Ha ha.

Yet again, I learn of how in life I have an expectation, and then life shows me what actually happens. There is a difference between a goal and an expectation, and I am learning to experience life more than picture it.

I knew in my heart of hearts there was a reason why we got this tree up so early. It was because I knew December would get crazy. Oh, what I thought was crazy- busy Christmas adventures and cheer, hustle and bustle- became so much more.

Over the season, we almost lost our pup. He stopped eating one day, and after one day too many I brought him in. We went on a roller coaster of xrays, then eventually exploratory surgery, What they thought might be an obstruction (common for dogs who like to eat everything, which is most dogs!) ended up to be a whole biological mess! His colan had wandered up into his unseemed heart cavity and fused into his abdominal wall. He had no chance, but was given one. After two extensive life-saving surgeries, Ranger had lost parts of his intestine, half his pancreas, his spleen and a part of his stomache. He had fluids and blood transfusions. Over the course of two weeks, he lost about 35 lbs (he was 54lbs at his top weight before- he is supposed to be around 80lbs now.)

After the ordeal, I brought home his skin and bones and worked at getting him healthy with meals of antibiotics, pain killers and special enzyme powders- all in small doses hourly for several days. This took some dedication of time.

Well, all I wanted for Christmas was my puppy back- and I got him! I will never forget the kind Vets and staff here in this town. None of them had ever seen an animal like this before, and he became their miracle pup. He is doing so well now, and gaining weight steadily. We have a couple challenges, like getting him back on his weight increasing puppy food, but it's so good to know that what is going in comes out, so to speak!

Ranger, I WUFF you!

And so, as things with him got better, our house got SICK! Mabel and I had the worst of it. Right up until Christmas day, me nor the girls had done much Christmas-y things. It was a bust, except for being able to go to my inlaws- which was what Christmas was about. It was such a nice visit and a nice memory. I have very thoughtful second parents that I am very thankful for.

So, needless to say, I have arrived, or tumbled, into 2011- and I have some very positive feelings about this year and our family. Not something I feel every New Year. So this is good, ya?

I may even scratch out a little resolution of big and little plans. Mostly, and probably most importantly, I have a sense of peace. It feels amazing. I have gathered my breath, said my prayers and felt more here than ever before. I am able to hold my children, love my husband and cherish my friends. I am not always perfect, but perfectly imperfect. I am learning to forgive, and move on. I am learning to try to make my best choice with what I have. Folks, it's an amazing place to be, one I have dreamed of for so long. I hope the New Year is good to you as well... I hope you can make it that way. Connection, uniting, and love. Sweet love.

Here are some pictures. And soon, I hope to bring you my first entry on yummy food I have made. I especially have a good one- rice paper wraps! Oh, the joy of indulging. Yum!

Happy New Year, and you're welcome to 2011.

The Edson Parade

Mabel

Mika (New Specs!)

Minutes before Ranger's first surgery. I am so glad this photo is part of his story, and not his last one.

A healthier Ranger, weeks later (This is from our walk yesterday, a future blog post on snowshoeing! Yippee!)

Maman, with her grandchildren (December 2010)

We'll Freeze for Trees.

2010-12-02T01:37:00.007-07:00

The annual hunt for the the perfect tree while we near the darkest and coldest days.

Some years we love the full blooming bright trees, some years we go fake and imitate life in a form of plastic art, and other years we pick a poor looking sap. This year felt like simple perfection. Mika was home too sick for school, but too healthy for an indoor day, so on the hunt we went.

We brought him home, and for the month of December we will love him. He only got lights up before the house got even sicker and no one had the energy, but in his simple beauty he brings a sense of peaceful ambiance. I've already held my girls in its light, watched Mabel roll faster to touch it and Mika has hung and rehung tacky decorations (that don't last, they fall apart too quickly, poor thing).

With this and the weekend over, this weekday has brought us to Mabel's birthday. A half of a year has passed too fast, but I am eternally grateful for the time and love we've spent getting to know Mabel. I am so excited to watch her thrive and grow, and be the person she is. Happy Birthday Ma Bell!

One Month, Many Memories.

2010-11-25T14:20:00.009-07:00

It has been one month since I've made an entry. I suppose one could say I am getting better. For me though, it's not good enough. These are my memories. Not only do I want to share them with you, but I want to keep them for me as well. And, I do have a thousand excuses for not meeting you here. But instead, I'll just tell you about my last month, and share with you a few photos I do have.

So my last entry was the retreat, which was a week before Halloween. The next weekend was a dear friends of Mike's Wedding. Mike and I dropped Ranger and Mika off at Grandma's and Grandpa's, and headed to Red Deer for the Weekend. It was beautiful and love filled. There is nothing like witnessing young love. You witness the beginning of something amazing. Mike and I are only 7 years in... and oh if I could share with myself then what I know now! The love grows deep... but only from experience. The hardships and trials bloom beauty and trust, love and compassion.

The day after the wedding, Mike and I trekked home. After our weekend reminder of how great marriage can be, we wandered off HWY 2 and took roads less traveled. It was Halloween day, and we were going to pick Mika up to go trick or treating with friends and family in the big city. I (begged, pleaded, bribed) asked Mike nicely to wear his fake mustache early, and go to lunch with me. We stopped in a small town and proceeded through the door. It was fun! Lets say, by the end of lunch, a booth of young fellows were laughing, the waitress had rosy cheeks and the cook had to come witness Mike for themselves. Also, a poor table of seniors could not look us in the eye (I'm not proud of that). Here ya are:

Ladies note: He's married!

Next, we went to pick Mika up and dress the girls and head into town. We stopped at Erin and Sue's and did a touch of trick or treating. I was going to take more pictures to show, but we got a phone call.

This kind of phone call I have both received and had to make in my life. It's the kind of call no one ever wants to get or make. The kind that stops everything in it's tracks, and the world seems to feel a bit different for a long time.

My sister was on the phone, and the minute she said hello, my mind desperately wanted to know who it was about, and what state they were in. This one was about our cousin Tommy. He lives in Vancouver, and had been hit head on by some thieves, who were trying to escape police in a chase, on an exit ramp. Click here for story. Tommy was fighting for his life.

We headed over to my sisters, and my brother and his family were there too. We had heard Tom was staying alive until my aunt could get there, a 7 hour drive away. The night it happened, my sister, brother, and our spouses all hugged and cried (while dressed for Halloween- it's always good in these times to find something to smile about, I've learned!). For us, the world had stopped. I was remembering the last trip Tommy made to see me. He had two days off, the first in months, and made a spur of the moment trip to come see me, a 12 hour greyhound bus ride, for one night and then fly home the next day. That trip meant a lot to me (a lot!), but now it meant so much more, and I was holding on to it so much tighter.

Tommy made it to through brain surgery and then beyond. He is expected to make a full, or close to, recovery now. Thank God! After a few weeks of an induced coma and many prayers by loved ones and strangers, Tom was coming out. Meagan (my sister) and I headed up to Vancouver. We visited him for hours each day, and he is getting better and better. It will be a long road for him, but he has wonderful family and friends. I can't wait to go camping with my siblings, him and his sister (and our partners and kiddos!). We have more memories to be made!

Also this month: More vaccines for Ranger, visits from Mike's parents and his Uncle Philip from Belize, a trip to Cadomin and the Cardinal Divide, where Athabasca and North Saskatchewan rivers part ways, and some kitchen pictures. Coming Soon: Food and Sewing adventures (I say adventure, because quite honestly, I'm sure they won't be 'picture perfect'! Ha ha).

Also in Vancouver, I met sweet Maggie Jane, my cousins baby. Mabel Jane and Maggie Jane! I could hang out with the two forever. Such sweet ladies! (and what can I say, I am always up for a Jane party- since I am one!)

And the photos:

Ranger

Cooking with Mika

Life's good.

Frozen peas are awesome.

Uncle Phillip, Mike and Frank (Dad).

Cadomin.
I guess Mike didn't read the sign.

Cardinal Divide.
Old small forest, beat down by winds over years. Mika is almost taller!

Walking on water

Sweet MJ (or two).

Thanks for the ears, and eyes! Talk soon. ~LJ

DLS retreat.

2010-10-27T22:53:00.004-06:00

It's exciting to see other photographers alike, and it's even more exciting to spend a whole weekend with them. You laugh, you cry, you share and maybe you pick up a thing or two (or many). You might meet a magician, discover the meaning to something or see things in a new light.

This year we had the sideshow of watching Mabel and Ruby check each other out. I think they sized each other up as the other's squeak toy. So adorable. We also had a cute baby come by for pictures. 3 weeks old. I'm not sure how, but I managed to get baby pangs while I still have one. She was so sweet!

And now? I have a rekindled and validated love for something dear to me, les photos.

Fall (in love).

2010-10-27T22:13:00.007-06:00

So, this will be my last catching up post. After having caught up, I hope I have also encouraged myself to come back more often and keep it up. As much as I like to put all of this here for you, there is also a great gift I am giving myself- and my family in the future. It is these lasting memories, through photo and words a story is being born. Every entry a chapter and every photo a page in the bigger picture.

So, here is Fall. Fall is a hard time for many. The days get longer, the weather gets cooler. Routine replaces the spontaneity of Summer. So, what better thing to see in Fall than all the color. It brings us a beautiful backdrop for our adventures. Here are ours from the season, as we head into Winter.

Miss Mabel

My new Moped. HERcules. Pure love and joy, it brings me.

Mika and I's masterpiece.

More MJ and Grandpa Al.

These beauties are 2 days apart. M was overdue and S was a bit early, but S is older.

Scenic Canadian Fall drive.

Mabel working out. She'll be crawling before I know it!

Thanksgiving sleepovers. It was a beautiful weekend and the girls warmed my heart. Such fun! Mika had hoped the day would never come for SJ to leave. It's one of those times where I think, "I wish I lived closer." Makes weekends like this extra special.

On the same weekend, my brother and his family came for a visit. B couldn't get enough of the minichopper, me my ped and Mike his bike.

I was thinking I like to vent to friends, and how true this was. Mike was just laughing. What can I say.

Another love in my life. Our new pup, Ranger. I RUFF him! He's a good boy. After much consideration and my love of GSD's, I was spoiled with one. He already knows many tricks and has such a sweet personality. Mike fondly (and sometimes not so) build his dog house and very fondly (true story) put up a dog run (I guess it's a childhood dream to build one? ha ha). Ranger, and often Mabel, and I walk the property every day and he is adjusting well. I can't wait to teach him bang! bang! and take him places.

Crazy hair day at school.

November is approaching, and soon there will be snow. I'm hoping we still enjoy the outdoors right in our backyard (please no minus 50! Please!) Hope your Fall was fabulous!

Sweet, lazy, hazy days of SUMMER.

2010-10-11T22:54:00.012-06:00

Summer. The word comes with fuzzy feelings of its own. Where I live, it means early pretty mornings that smell good, and long evenings that feel good.

Our summer this year was eventful and sleepy, all in one.

Here are some of, but not all, the highlights.

My sister and her beautiful family visited.

(photo taken by Mike)

(Photo taken by Dad)

Somebody in our group at the hotel tried the fun button.

I'm thinking Mike and Mika were on the list of those people.

Mika and Mabel. Gosh, they're swell!

Summer picnic.

Not from summer, but couldn't keep it from the blog! Brother Bri and his cutie patootie family! ~R's 2nd birthday in February.

Mike, when he wasn't on the seadoo the rest of the time! ;)

The resident pet we had for three days until we found the neighbor whose herd she belonged to! Kind of missed her after she got rounded up.

Even if you're a big kid, it's hard not to ride toys.

Other family pictures. Mika, Mabel, Me, Marble, Mike (the M's are NOT planned, they just happened- life's like that sometimes!), grilled pineapple and a bunny salad.

(photo by Mike)

Dusty.

2010-10-11T22:06:00.004-06:00

On Mothers day when I was almost 14 years old, my mom and I went to get a new pup. His name was White Lightning. He was fast and goofy, so white and so sweet. His fur was soft. We took him home in the car for his first car ride, he rode in my lap in a blanket and I cuddled his shaking body the whole way home. For years to come, he would learn "Car ride!" as the best words ever, next to "Go for a walk!" or "Go to Fort McMurry!" (something my dad trained him to be excited for, for no reason... so cruel Dad. So cruel. ha ha)

The day we got him, my brother was in the back yard and we brought him to the patch of grass and played with him for hours. We taught him not to pee in the entrance, to sit, to stay, to come, to roll over, to 'go get it', to jump. He taught us to goo and ga like a fool, to get him a treat, to let us be licked to near death, and to love deeper than one can imagine. Mom didn't want to keep the name White Lightning, Dad wasn't aloud to name him Buster and we all settled on Dusty. Dusty was perfect. Dusty loved to be drug along the floor, jowls clenched on a toy in a fierce grip, never letting go. He'd sway back and forth in circular motions. He was hairy and mop looking. Dusty.

I have so many memories of Dusty. I remember his subtle "Hmphhh!" when he wanted attention and we were reading the paper or books (Boooorrrringgggg!!!). I remember his CATHUNK! when he'd run and jump from the front living room to the hallway, a stagering two steps, chasing a treat or toy, or just to come say hi.

Since these are all typical dog things, there is a deeper Dusty we should know.

I remember Dusty remembering me, and coming down to my room at 1am in the morning when the whole house was sleeping, and I was in the basement bedroom hanging out. I'd hear a snort from under my door, and I'd open it and he'd swagger in, all cool like, hop on the bed, and look at me as if to say "Where's my cuddle?" Sometimes he'd have a nap after, and sometimes he'd leave right away, because he checked on me and it was all good. There were nights he had made everything better.

I remember Dusty being the only one to greet me at the door most days, even if I snuck in sooo quite to not disturb anyone. A little lick, and off he'd go.

I remember Dusty sitting in the front window for hours, protecting us from all dangers of the world.

I remember Dusty the day I found out I was unexpectedly pregnant and scared. He would not stop licking my face, even when I pushed him away. He was the first one I whispered the words to out loud. He was determined to let me know everything would be alright. And it was.

Dusty carried all our family in his heart since the day we brought him home. He was our shadow and our light. A dog really is a best friend, and if you don't get that, then I guess you couldn't understand. It's different than a human. It's a pure thing on its own.

Eventually we all moved out, and Dusty was left with my Mom and Dad. Over the last few years, unavoidably by every living creature, he got sick. And this summer, when Dusty came to stay with me for a few days while Mom went to go camping with Mika, Dusty got too sick.

I knew the evening was bad, and we had a tough time making it through the night. After several calls to Mom, we were going to meet at the vets. I wanted this to be a passing thing, and for him to get better. But I knew in my heart this was his last car ride. Dusty was shaking, but not from being scared. He was panicked. I think I knew he just wanted to see Mom. It was a hard day, and I vowed to never love a pet again, because it was just so hard. (I couldn't get through that last sentence, without stopping to cry several times. It is not easy to see or remember the pain someone you love goes through). Of course, I know despite this hard and heavy day, that I can always carry Dusty's memories and lessons with me. I can know that something so sweet can exist, and I know that because I've experienced this. But at the time, I couldn't feel any other way. I hated feeling so helpless and put in a position like this.

It's funny how life has it's parallels, Mom and I were saying at this moment. I carried Dusty inside and waited for mom with him in the oxygen tank. By the time she came, Dusty slipped fast. Mom held him, and I waited with my babies in the front room. We buried him at his home, by the pond and road that he loved to walk everyday.

Dusty, you walk in our hearts and we love you (and miss you, buddy).

(the road dusty walked on in his last days)

My Star

2010-10-11T21:25:00.005-06:00

Mika is the sun my world spins round. She is my star. There is hardly a day that goes by that she doesn't do something that amazes, inspires or humbles me. She is a vital force on this planet, with a heart of gold and a soul that shines. I try to do things right, for her. I try to build our future, for her. And when we have a hard day or a rough week, her resilience comes through and shows us all what it's like to be human, to err and move on. She makes me smile in her goofy and in her beauty. I love kids for this reason, especially mine.

Meeting Mabel.

2010-10-10T23:38:00.011-06:00

For those of you that know our family personally, they'd know Mabel was something we've waited years for, in our own way.

And then, towards the end of my pregnancy, we were waiting weeks, days and finally hours. Minutes that dragged on. And when things finally started happening, they happened FAST.

A few days before she was born my sister had come to stay with us. I had been getting all the false signs of labour, but it just wasn't happening. My mother came out a couple days before, too. On that same day, I had an appointment to get things moving, and after hearing stories of other's experiences I decided to call Mike to come home from work early. No matter how much I stressed to dispatch to tell him it WASN'T an emergency, the message got delivered it was urgent. Poor Mike was stuck at a train for 5 minutes thinking he wasn't with me to see the birth of our baby. Only he will know and remember those few moments. Once he got close enough to call (in a panic) I let him know the series of events, and it still took him a bit to come down from the rush. It was a good story after though!

Instead, we sat around waiting for the doctors call to come in to be induced. On Wednesday, June 2nd (a few days after Mike first came home) we got the call. We went in for a 3:30pm appointment. At 4pm I got a low gel dose and was put on a non stress test for an hour. What I thought were contactions every 10-15 minutes over the next hour, I was told were just cramps and to be back in 4 hours for another dose, and I probably wouldn't have baby born until tomorrow morning.

At this point we knew a few things we wanted. We wanted Mom (who now had Mika we assumed at a park or something) to bring Mika in while the baby was born, Meagan (my sister) to be there (which she already was, she was my coach and I wouldn't have it any other way!) and Hope, my more-than-good friend, who was coming to do the photos. Hope was barreling down highway 16 with her two dutch students from the university, who wanted to see the mountains at some point.

So, thinking I'd go home, I went to the washroom to clean up and leave. Yeah, not too many minutes later, and I was back in the bed in A. Lot. Of. Pain.

I had planned to do a natural birth, working my way up to the painful moments in the end. Yeah, well, there was no working up. This came strong and fast, and I was begging to either get an epidural or just be knocked out. I was doing pull ups on the bed rails with each wave of pain, which for days later I was sore from.

The nurse came in, did the one over and said "You're not going home, and you're not getting an epidural." And the room panicked a bit, Mike made a quick call to Hope to be here now, and tried Mom's cell about 10 times before he had to give up and concentrate on what was going on (Mom and Mika made it in about 20 minutes too late, she had left the cell in the car while filling up on gas-Oops!)

We were all ago, Hope had just arrived, I was being coached, and then really fast, at 6:39pm, we had our sweet Mabel Jane.

Mike was the first to notice it was a Mabel. She was placed onto my stomach, and I was- well, I don't know what I was right then. I imagine I was trying to take it all in, I remember trying to read Dr. G's face to see if anything was wrong with her. But Mike's voice came in loud and clear. He said once as a fact, "It's a girl". Then he said it in confusion (we both thought we were having a boy), "It's a girl?". And Then the third time, I could tell his heart melted like Dad's of little girls do, and he exclaimed, "LAURA, IT'S A GIRL!!!"

So then I was shocked, and looked at her, and my heart melted and LOVED her and, just like when Mika was born and I found out she was a girl, I said "It's Mabel. Mabel Jane."

Now, I think I know why labour is that painful. It's because when you meet the wee one, life is suddenly that good, that euphoric, and that special. This moment is so heavy with so many things. On this day, it was heavy with perfection, and I felt like one of the lucky ones. I felt thankful, and happy. Everything leading up to this point was waiting to see, and although if things had been different I'd hope I'd have imbraced it, but Mabel was healthy and beautiful, and I feel so blessed.

In a whirlwind of photos, and tears, and greetings and love, our family became four. Meet Mabel.

First Picture

(Photo taken by Hope Walls Photography)

First Bath

Many cuddles later

Sister Love.

Mabel Jane

itty bitty parts

Birthday Suit

Announcement

The term Meeting Mabel was coined by Erin, who threw the sprinkle. Sprinkle of love is what I wanted, to introduce her to special people in my life. Erin made her home so welcoming with delicious food and warm sunshine. It was such a nice day where Mabel got a lot of snuggles from loved ones. Thanks Erin (and Meagan and Sue! And everyone else )

She sure is my sunshine.

This has become something Mabel smiles at all the time. I love Chicken, he is a perfect friend. Thanks for reading, and meeting Mabel Jane!

Little ~C is One.

2010-10-10T23:32:00.004-06:00

Oh man! If I could eat kids like cake, this one would take 'em! He is too cute for words, and one funny boy! The day I came over, it was probably the darkest overcast I had ever seen in Edson, and this poor guy was teething up a storm- but that didn't stop him from dancing for me in the kitchen, throwing balls and smiling. So nice to know him and watch him grow up, he warms my heart.

The Family Tree Next Door.

2010-10-10T22:16:00.007-06:00

Family, in a round a bout way. My sister's, husband's, sister's kids and Mika see each other once a year or so. This was a lovely spring day we went for a visit to their house and played. A sweet family, that I am happy to be connected to in some way. Also gorgeous too!

We had way too much fun! Uncle Kyle, for each of his nieces, is so kind to play princess, even if it's just a second. The picture after ~K blowing bubbles is him thinking he's giving a big smile. Every time mom said to smile, this is what I got. I'll take it! I'll take the little princess too. I'll take 'em all!

Little ~D

2010-10-10T21:55:00.004-06:00

Just like my little ~M's, Crystal has two little ~D's. Cute as buttons, they are! Funny where life takes us all. Here are some photos of Mamma before baby is born, and then little ~D after! The hat is Dad's, and then little ~D not so little anymore- beautiful blue eyes!

Baby Bloom

2010-10-10T21:42:00.007-06:00

These are the pre-baby pictures. I remember feeling the little bundle in the big ol' bump. Pregnancy has not been easy for me, both times around. However despite the horrible symptoms and the scary nights hoping things were going to be okay only to feel a little kick (or big wobble near the end!), it is so worth it to meet the tiny person born. Looking in those eyes to meet and discover who they are. This pregnancy went through an accident, some grieving and a few complications. I prayed over my baby, my self, my family and our future. These photos are from a few weeks before we met her.

Crystal was also pregnant, and we both have older kiddies two months apart as our babies will be. :)

Florida

2010-10-08T11:48:00.006-06:00

So, ashamedly almost a year ago I should have made this blog entry. Perhaps this is where it begun to back up because I wanted to truly express, beyond the photos, what this trip meant to me.

This was not a holiday, though it felt like one. This was a very special, one-of-a-kind reunion. I was visiting the home, for the first time, where my sweet sister partly grew up and continued to reside. I was discovering who she is and fostering what sister-love we have. I had met her, her husband and kids before, but never in a light like this.

Meagan and I (my Canada sister) decided that life is too short, and chances pass you by. We've come to the place where we realise the time is now, and bygones be bygones. Today is the day to start creating life how we want it to be. No regrets, right? So we booked the ticket down to visit Crystal, whom I can count on one hand how many times I've seen, and always in a room full of other people we knew at a wedding or other function.

I was also watching her son (my nephew, and her step son- my nephew also!) connect with Mika in a cool new way that we never got the chance to do growing up. Watching them be cousins is the. cutest. thing. ever. ~V is a special boy who I LOVE. And so gentleman too!

As an adult now, I have come to realize that I have control and choice in how much to invest in my relationships and Crystal is my sister, she is special to me. And now, after having spent a week with both my sisters, we have a memory to bank on and grow from. I feel grateful that was able to happen, that we can now be at this place.

Crystal, you are beautiful, and so is your family. I am so happy to know you, to know how special you are to me from the inside. I can not wait for many more trips to see you and love and laughter to share, like sisters do!

(This photo taken by meagan)

A New Year Arrival.

2010-02-09T11:42:00.004-07:00

Well, I was very happy that things worked out for me to be able to take the anticipated photos of little ~C. I almost didn't make it with my injury.

Big brother ~M is so proud, showering baby with kisses and love. I am sure Mom and Dad have so many memories to make for these boys, what a great thing to be able to see the beginning of it all.

Thanks for the wonderful visit, it has been wonderful to see you all, Congratulations!

An update on me

2010-01-15T23:53:00.005-07:00

Sooo... how's it going? Long time no talk! So I guess a Happy New Year is in order- so I wish you just that!

Well, I realized I have not blogged about my wee family in a long time. There has been lots going on with us. First off I'd love to announce that the family is growing by one more member this year. We will be expecting him or her at the end of May. I am so excited. I am so thankful for a little bundle. I am so excited for the joy it'll bring, especially if it's anything like what our little miss M brought to us over 5 years ago. We've experienced the first heart beat sounds, the first pictures at the ultra sound and now I am feeling flops and pokes every hour. Pregnancy has to be one of the scariest experiences, but each little successful milestone feels like a huge leap and I burst with happiness, like the pokes are tiny secrets of comfort each time. It might be strange, but I feel like I already know this little ones personality, like we've met before.

So this fal, with my 3.5 members of the family in tow, we headed out for Mike's brother's wedding. GORGEOUS! It was held in Tofino. ~M was honored to be the flower girl and Mike a grooms man, so I wasn't able to get too many images of the ceremony because I was on flower girl/ ring bearer duty, but I have a great memory of the day and it was wonderful. We made the wedding weekend extend into a holiday on the west coast, so there are some pictures of surfing and beach fun.

We had a pretty mellow November and unfortunately a bit of a sad Christmas. It started with a bad accident involving my fingers on my *gasp* shooting hand. I crushed two in a garage door and was sent to couch rest for almost 2 weeks. I thought I'd never live pain free again, but today marks the one month anniversary and I am typing! I had to cancel a few shoots, but I am hoping to be in the swing of things right away to get a fix in before the wee one arrives in late spring. I hope I have the energy and flexibility too!

To go with the former sad news at Christmas, we recieved some even harder news which unfortunately won't ever be better. My Grandma passed away a few days before Christmas. Grandma's are always dear, and maybe like others think, mine was just extra special. I still have really bad days or hours and it's hard to put this here, so that's all I will say. I really miss her. My whole family misses her, life will never be the same, never as sweet.

I hate to end my entry with this, so I would like to share something to look forward too (and yes, it includes probaly MANY pictures- here's hoping the fingers will be ready!). I have a half sister, ~C, who lives in Florida. She is a few years older than my brother, ~B, my sister ~MD and I (we all live here in Alberta). I have 'met' my sister in person two times that I can remember. Once when her son ~V was born her and her husband came up with him for a visit. At my sister's wedding, when my daughter was one week old, they came up again. Since this visit I have missed her. This passed year especially. My sister ~MD that lives here and I have had a great sister relationship. We've shared experiences- belly laughed, cried, lived through births and deaths and have lived our lives closely. I feel so robbed from the situation with sister ~C from Florida that I got really sad this year. ~MD was feeling the same way and we've decided life is too short to have regrets, so we booked flights this winter to go see ~C in Florida, and her beautiful family. Little ~M (my daughter) will be coming too to have aunty/cousin time. I told her she is going to meet the first cousin that ever held her that she can't even remember.

So anyway, this is good news. People, your roots are important. I am lucky to have a great family I realize, and to build on that. I can't pass this up.

So, hopefully soon I will be into this swing of things and will be popping the pictures up here for you. Another Happy New Year, all the best!

Bundles of Fun!

2009-12-01T18:16:00.003-07:00

One of the best things I'm finding out is seeing clients over the last couple of years since I've begun my photography journey. The reason for this, is to watch families like this one grow. From first child maternity photos to their second child maternity photos, love like this grows deep! This family especially knows how to warm it up with winter weather approaching too. Thanks for the great time, have a Merry Christmas!

Where the heart is.

2009-11-16T14:36:00.003-07:00

The ever growing family is now on bouncing baby number three! If you ever wan life to be filled, this is the way to do it! And of course, Mama knows that it's hard to get those moments alone, so she planned a special side trip just for that. I can definitely learn from her, with just our one (and one on the way) we haven't had a nice family photo done... well, ever! And to add the couple love (where it all starts) to boot, is amazing. I can't wait to see where you are all headed from here! Thanks ~S family!

Part Two

2009-11-11T22:34:00.003-07:00

If there was an adopt-a-family program that existed, I'd definitely put an application in for these guys! A SWEET baby girl, cute and playful boy and nice, delightful parents. I first met baby boy when he was his sisters age and loved to see how the family is doing now. It's so nice to see how the love has grown! Thanks for the wonderful afternoon and the Muttart tour (anybody and everybody should visit, it's pretty- especially when the snow is headed our way, a little flora and fauna is nice!) Have a great year with your little ones!

oh boy, so funny.

2009-11-11T22:17:00.002-07:00

This family makes me smile every time I think of the afternoon. They started out the session all ready to take pretty pictures (and they did), then slowly- okay, really fast- they got super goofy. From cracking jokes, to bunny ear photo pranks that by the end of the session Mom said, "Okay we can show our true selves- you guy's can through the leaves at me, but only if I can beat you off with the stick!"

~K, I hope you at least got the one nice photo you've been wanting for almost a year now, but please know the true beauty of your family truly shines through and I was glad to see it!

Small Town Adventure

2009-11-09T10:59:00.004-07:00

These guys have a little tyke who knows how to put the farm in boy. A day in the life with them is definitely an adventure. The first time I visited their place I was literally chased by a huge herd of Buffalo and feared for my life. Fortunately this visit was a little more calm, even though we drove through the same field to Pavlo's Barn. The door almost falling on little ~D, Mamma ~C said a quick prayer for ~D being spared any injury. It was sometimes hard to get Papa ~G to focus on the camera and not look around surveying his land or checking out the bird population- but hey, the man is proud!

Thanks for the mini adventure!

Happy Days

2009-11-09T10:48:00.002-07:00

Spending time with these guys outdoors for this shoot, George Santayana said it best "The family is one of nature's masterpieces." I've had the privilege of knowing these people for a year now and they are golden! And that always makes days like this fun. Thanks for the fun afternoon, and sorry about the cold toes!

Pretty Lady.

2009-11-09T10:40:00.003-07:00

There is nothing more fun than a glam shoot with a friend! I already know the beauty of this chickie, and it shines through. I miss those summer days! (Even though I think this one was already kind of cold, am I remembering right ~C?) Thanks for the time well spent!

The Happy Couple (with more happy on the way!)

2009-09-17T22:39:00.003-06:00

I got to know ~S in college (I won't say how long ago *wink* ) and I got to **really** know her on a whirlwind trip across our country by bus and backpack while we were in college. A girl who loves life, values human spirit and knows how to have a good time, I always love our small visits every so often to catch up on new jobs, new husbands and new babies. And after meeting ~J, I have to say ~S, you have met your match! I only spent just under an hour with ~J and I can honestly say these too are cheesy perfect for each other! And this new family unit is so perfect together, that I tried to get maybe two shots without ~J (who enthusiastically warned me as I stepped foot in the door that it was going to be like pulling teeth to get him to stick around for pictures, and then with the same enthusiasm stayed with us to the very end) I noticed that on the book shelf every other book was about baby and daddy. Awwww! *gush!*.

I can't wait to hear the good news! You will make wonderful parents.

Sun-kissed day at the park- in their jeans!

2009-09-09T22:40:00.004-06:00

Sweet sunshine and sweet family. Definitely a theme to live by! What a day to soak in the last few rays of summer at the park. This family sure new how to throw the smiles out too. We even found a soon to be vintage (if it's not already!) land line public phone. Neener neener! I had a great time, thanks so much for getting me out on a beautiful day to spend some time with you all! (sorry ~M, the cheesy kisses were begging to be posted! )

hitting the streets, with style!

2009-08-26T00:03:00.004-06:00

*could ~K be any more fun?!* Seriously.

I could have done this for a full day straight. Gorgeous girl + adventurous attitude = one fun photo shoot! And she wasn't holding back (I won't mention the superman-esque jeans to skirt change (okay, I just did) and where it was (good thing she could do it so quickly!) Thanks for venturing around the streets and thank YOU for asking me to do the pics- anytime!

beachy keen, summer sizzlin', happy hot 2009.

2009-08-25T23:42:00.007-06:00

So there really is a reason for no blog posts this time. I came this close to losing ALL my photos. Yours, mine- all of them. I had a few hours of heart ache, despair and anger. I had even backed up my photos, doing the thing you are supposed to. The back up had failed. LUCKILY with help, I was able to recover them from the bowls of my computer. My memories, my moments. My treasures. My link to the past. My hard work, my pride, my place I sometimes call home. It has taken weeks to recover other things and reprogram. I now have to back up again, and this time in a million ways. Lesson (hopefully) learned.

But, despite this bump in the summer road, we have been super busy. Going here and there, doing this and that. Savoring friendships (and making friends- I love babies!), visiting family. Laughing our hearts out creating memories to hold on to and crying from the depth of our souls, losing loved ones we will never forget. Life is a crazy ride but when I stop and enjoy the moments I know at the heart of things we have love. I hope that is something I never forget. Happy summer 2009! Enjoy life :)

(Pictures in order shown: ~ (above) Kinuseo Falls, Tumbler Ridge BC, ~Body paint on legs, and ~my father in law being kind enough to humor me with the paint ~ Mika splashing in a creek ~ Baby 'A', so sweet ~ My sister taught herself AND her horse to jump and had to be (as always) a show off ~ Cousin going fast on the horse ~Mika and the cousins ~ A cloud I spotted, within seconds it formed and disappeared- lucky shot!)

Meet little C and Woody.

2009-08-25T23:34:00.003-06:00

Little C has begun to play shy. I'm sure it's a master plan to get the ladies attention (you know, the shy, coy approach). Well- it works with me.

Little C. Is. Cute!

He has a friend, Woody. Woody loves to be here, there, everywhere. He is not shy, he is happy to be your friend right away (like as soon as you ring the door bell). He also had me at hello.

Sometimes in life we cannot help but have favorites (you know that's true!), I will always, always love to visit these people, they are people favorites for me!

beautiful family

2009-08-25T23:26:00.003-06:00

In the beginning of summer, I met a beautiful lady who was gracefully turning 90. I can only hope I am as agile, witty and be- as she calls herself- the Bella of the ball! She lovingly made all of her granddaughters beautiful rings from her bracelet. Family is the true gem, and this one knows it!

We're going to the ZOO ZOO ZOO! How about YOU YOU YOU?

2009-07-06T21:11:00.003-06:00

What better way to spend a Saturday than at the Zoo! And especially catching up with old friends. My how the family has grown! With so much energy and love, never a dull moment. We were happy to come along and share the fun. Chicken love, monkey impressions and carousel rides (the picture Mika had to make it into, ha ha!) I loved the matching blue hues, a calming colour makes for great vibes! I'm sure it would have lasted a smidge longer but with the clouds rolling in and thunder booming, we made it to the end of our day just in time. I can't wait to see you again. Thanks!

the time has come!

2009-06-24T22:09:00.007-06:00

YAY!

So HAPPY to introduce my new HOME AWAY FROM HOME!

www.thephotographyoflaurajane.com

Take a look, and I can't wait to see you soon! (That's right! I am officially back from the break!)

A special thanks to Mary from Oakes Web & Media who has truly made it the *sweet* home it is.

Lots of love!

~Laura Jane

all sugar, no spice.

2009-06-15T22:33:00.005-06:00

This little lady here is a gem. I fell in love with her instantly. I could have held her for hours (maybe mom will let me this summer!). It seems like not long ago we were at baby's parent's wedding with our little bundle, and now they have their own.

Little ~H was my first sleeping baby (can you believe the luck after all this time?) so I was so excited! Of course I was trying to get her to do too many things, so she woke up.... but even then she was still so good (even when she gave mom a little present on her lap ;) )

I look forward to seeing little ~H grow up! Thanks for having me over to meet her!

life

2009-06-11T09:54:00.006-06:00

We have been pretty busy in the past month! I imagine this time of year picks up for absolutely everyone.

Here are (quite) a few photos just because. Reviewing the last 6 months or so, it's obvious I've had a good time off. Lot's of friends and family, lots of love and a lot of time to gather myself for the next moments in my life.

I am very excited to say that within DAYS there will be a very exciting official revealing of the new website- let me tell you, BE excited! It is what I dreamed but way more... my aunt is a VERY talented person and web designer.

I hope your weekend is a good one, and the weather suits you fine.

Love Laura.

May lonnnnng and HOODOOS!

2009-05-19T15:15:00.006-06:00

What a weekend!

I think I now have hikers high. I am addicted! It was so much fun with all the fresh air, the adventure and the view. Best hoodoo's I've ever seen, too! We camped with friends for three nights and four days, and on the last day we woke up to 6 inches of snow, and it wasn't stopping anytime soon. Here are a couple pictures from the weekend, hope your weekend was just as glorious! It's spring/winter/summer- get out and enjoy our beautiful back yard this world has for us!

Marvelous Mothers and Whimsicle Superheros

2009-05-09T23:13:00.004-06:00

First of all, a picture of Four generations. The picture was taken by my father today, I was only in the city until this evening, so I spent my Mothers Day with my Grandma, Mother and Mika this afternoon a day early. It was a nice time and I feel so lucky to have the memory of this beautiful afternoon.

Later on in the day, Mika played with this fabric we've been using as a tibetan wrap sometimes. She was a superhero queen, and with the wind whipping around her it did feel a little bit magical.

Of course, I had to add two Mutt Shots of Coda. She has gained weight and calmed down so much, I think my dad has found a best friend for sure.

Have a Happy Mothers Day!

Mom's are sugar and spice, and everything nice.

A little something since I've done a lot of nothing!

2009-05-07T00:10:00.006-06:00

Boy. Yeah. Um, sorry. I've been, well, more than behind. Can I just say busy? ha ha. And to be honest, a little neglectful :(

You know how it is... the looming amount of work prevents you from just saying hi. Well... Hi! Ha ha.

So... what have I (we) all been up to? Well, I spent two great weeks in BC getting to know my nephews and nieces better while my sister in law and brother in law were on a trip visiting family in Belize. It was great, and I miss them! It was really great spending a solid amount of time with their youngest, Zachary, whom I've only met two times before. His eyes are to die for!

After getting back, Mike and I whisked away for a week in Mexico (before the H1N1 scare I assure you!) It was great, a good time with some friends who were there as well.

Then we've been busy having friends and family over, going places and doing things. Most recently (as in yesterday) my brother, his girlfriend and my (beloved) nephew were up, so we day tripped to Jasper and had a great time!

I am so happy to say that very soon the new website will be launched, and I am really excited to start getting back into the swing of things! I've missed you all and can't wait to see how your families and love has grown!

There will be a few changes to how things operate, but only to provide great things for all!

Here are a very few pictures of the last couple months. I have oodles, and maybe one day I'll tell more stories, but for now a few special pictures.

Much love! (ps, the last picture is Mika catching a single snowflake out of the window from a, now rare, snowfall. She was so thrilled as she licked it up after!)

Talk to you soon!

A Little Peice of Spring (the birth)

2009-03-27T16:35:00.003-06:00

So, I have been on a little break from things for awhile, but was thrilled to do one session for a friend, who is due at Easter time. I got to know this Mom while I was away in British Columbia spending time with my nephew and nieces. I cannot express how much of a great person this lady is, and how I am so happy to be able to call her a friend and not just an acquaintance anymore. What a super family she has!

There will be more photos to come soon. However, I am away for another week, this time somewhere hot and (hopefully) beautiful. (haha!) Until next time!

a lot and a little

2009-02-25T00:25:00.004-07:00

So today I'm posting a lot. But, of client work there is little (actually none).

I am enjoying my time off, and LOVING every minute with my family and friends. It is what I needed and I am getting excited to jump back behind the camera this spring! I am working (oh... so... slowly...) on the new website and have revamped the blog (as you can see). Not sure what I like, so you *may* see changes in the next couple of months as I work and tweak things. I am off for a couple of weeks (sans the husband, unfortunately) to spend some time with more lovely extended family, which I am VERY excited, thrilled, delighted, eager and wired for! I'm hoping to capture the beautiful people as they are, the way I love them (look forward to THAT!) Then it'll be a few short weeks home (with crunch time on the site) and off to Meh-He-Co with my handsome life partner and some dear friends. Will be busy, will be beautiful!

Enjoy these MANY posts I've put up for you tonight, much love!

Laura Jane

Birthday Extravaganza!

2009-02-24T23:59:00.009-07:00

Well, I had one of those days. Not only do I mega-love (which is a lot) this little guy, I was having an especially good snap-happy photo day (which I now relish). Hence, the many, many, (many), photos. From a SWEET bday cake, balloon throwing, popping (lots of) and static fun and cake eating goodness (and ~R was so kind to share with his poppa too!) -it was a very memorable day. Thanks for having us!
Love, Aunty.