Congratulations Brooke!

Brooke's mom asked me to come to the house to take pictures before graduation. Unfortunately it was a rainy day, so I packed up my lights and got these great shots inside their gorgeous house. I was just a little nervous since Grandpa was a wedding photographer for years!! I'm glad Christine didn't tell me that before I got there! ;)  Congratulations, Brooke!  I was so excited to spend this time with you!

Erin and Jeremy...

I had a great time with Erin and Jeremy earlier this week. I haven't seen Erin in years, but it didn't feel that way. It felt comfortable and laid back. We had lots of laughs, and I loved hearing their plans for the future. They are getting married next year...a destination wedding.

I was very surprised to learn later in the week that Jeremy was in the hospital and having surgery. I'm glad to report that he is doing well. I know Erin is right by his side taking great care of him. I'm praying that Jeremy's recovery is quick, so they can get on with their lives and wedding plans.

They could have danced all night...

Izzy and Jake. Jake and Izzy. What a pair.

We celebrated Brianna's Bat Mitzvah last weekend. At one point the dance floor cleared while everyone ate. Jake and Izzy took the opportunity to entertain many. They were adorable! I wish I had been taking video when another little boy about Jake's size tried to cut in. Jake grabbed both of Izzy's hands and held on as tight as he could. No one was taking his girl!

Kate enjoyed it, too! It was great to see her enjoying herself again. She's been down for 2 weeks following surgery to remove her tonsils and adenoids. Now we just have to figure out what is wrong with her kidneys and/or bladder, and she'll be as good as new. She's has been through so much this year!! I'm proud of her for what she's been able to accomplish through the years even when she isn't well. She amazes me!!

I'm so proud of Brianna! She has been studying so hard and really did a fantastic job during her service. Of course, I couldn't understand a lot of it, but I was impressed with her Hebrew.

I really need to get the kid in the green shirt out of the above shot. ;)

We were all so happy that Dad was able to attend every event for Brianna. It's amazing that this man just had a triple bypass on Good Friday!  I'm so relieved that he is doing so well. I will be glad when the self described "well tuned machine" is completely back in fighting form. I still need my Dad. He can't leave for a LONG time. Hear that, Dad? Take care of yourself!

I believe that every party should include a photo booth!!  Seriously...they are so much fun!!

Just for fun...

I had three opportunities to shoot for fun this past week. I went to Main Street in Historic St. Charles and Collinsville with some members of my photography club. I've said it before. I am a portrait photographer...of people. I had to push myself to take pictures of these two.

I must admit...it is fun...an entirely different kind of challenge for me.

I did grab plenty of comfort shots. ;)

Back in the zone!

The third opportunity was at my niece's Bat Mitzvah. There's still plenty of editing to be done. I'll share those soon. I just must say that I am so proud of what a beautiful, wonderful young woman she is!