Behind the scenes...

I couldn't let the big baby reveal go off without a HUGE thank you to one of my very bestest friends, former work spouse and extrordinary photographers, Amanda!


She managed to snap 150+ pics in record time, getting just the right shots.


I was worried the "photo shoot" would turn out overly cheesy, and was ready to nix it up until I saw the pics. She managed to catch the just the right moments and even took a few family shots while we had a toddler in a decent mood.


I love the way a few of them turned out, especially this one (also in my May blog header)

... and this pic of Bri and I.







Of course there were plenty of outtakes....





and us letting Ben say "poopy" and "booggers" over and over just to make him smile...

So, thanks, Amanda! We couldn't have done it without you!

Leaving proof

Remember this post?

I kept my word and played with the timer function on our camera. And I am so glad I did.

As the mom, and chief photographer, I am not really in many pictures. And, usually, in the midst of the event, I don't want to be. But after the fact, when I'm flipping through the pictures, I'm pretty bummed that it looks like I wasn't even there.

So, last Wednesday, we had a gorgeous, sunny evening. And after eating our breakfast for dinner, I put my camera on auto, set the timer and got some (I think) pretty good shots.

But I think this one might be my favorite because Ben took it. Isn't it fun to see his perspective?

Leave proof

I absolutely ADORE this blog, called Under the Sycamore.

The photography is beautiful, the ideas unique and attainable, but most importantly, the blogger makes me think -- just when I need it most.

Most of you know that I love kids -- and if our resources were unlimited, I'd have a houseful. In my dreamy dreams I would:
- have the comfy, hangout house. Where everyone feels welcome to come in and open the fridge.
- have a pile of shoes at the front door -- my kids', mine and our friends
- have a car with a trunk full of soccer balls, lacrosse sticks and baseball bats rolling around
- hear laughter and feet stomping all the time
- always have room for one (or two or three) more at the dinner table

I don't want perfect. I don't need spic and span. My fridge will never be fully organized.

But I do want busyness and fun and laughter and, yes, I know that comes with dirt and boo boos and drama.

And that's what the blogger, Ashley, has accomplished.

And she also has style and and eye for photography. And in this post she reminded those of us who are always behind the camera not to be shy. And in this post, she shares how she makes sure she gets in the shot.

I putting her tips to work. Like, literally, as soon as I hit "publish," I'm busting out the manual to figure out that time thing-a-ma-jig.

Thank you, Ashley, for reminding me to leave proof.