1. V-Day. There is a lot of love going around this week; lots of heart-shaped gestures and sweet symbols of love. It’s a nice break from all of the Christmas stuff, but it’s still hard not to feel overwhelmed by the commercialism of it. Troy and I don’t partake in traditional Valentine’s Day festivities so-to-speak, for that very reason, but we do take it as an opportunity to be extra lovey-dovey (and eat conversation hearts — guilty). Having Bree has made the holiday a bit easier to get wrapped up in though, and imagine all of the fun we can have as she grows and learns about Valentine’s Day. So I decided to sprinkle a little Valentine’s Day cheer here and there about the house, and with her wardrobe of course (it’s just way too easy). I also did a fun, simple little shoot with her yesterday that I will share tomorrow in the spirit of V-day. Even with my efforts against all of the commercialism this holiday brings, I’m sure it won’t be long before I am knee-deep in it, baking heart-shaped cookies, making ridiculously over-the-top valentines to hand out ‘from Bree’, and buying cheesy knickknacks for our girl. Do you do anything different/unique/non-commercial to celebrate??
2. New Stuff for CDP. 2014 feels like it’s the year of big change for the biz for some reason. I feel inspired to try new things, step out of my comfort zone, and really see where I can take this little business of mine. So many ideas swirling, and some new ideas coming to fruition — all of which I will share in time 🙂 But one of the things I TRULY enjoy is mini sessions — we do a set in the fall each year, and as of last year, I created a set in the spring too. They are always such a hit and I just love the images we are able to get; something about shooting in a really small window always yields the most fun, carefree images! I am thinking of doing a few other “mini” type sessions throughout the year, but with a very specific theme and for specific people. For example, I am thinking of offering a special Mommy + Me session for moms and their kiddos, something quick and simple (quicker than the regular 30min minis) but that will allow mommies to get some sweet pics with just their babies. I am working on getting some props together for the shoot (blankets or other little pieces) to add some character to the session. What do y’all think?? Would you like to see more of these mini minis? Maybe around major holidays and special times of the year?? I would love your input!
3. Happy Happy Birthday! I have to wish two of my FAVORITE people in the WHOLE WIDE WORLD a very happy birthday week: my sister and best friend, the person who I trust and love like crazy, and the most creative, genuine, free person I know — my sister, Linds (or as I call her, Nonney!). I hope you know how incredible, and how incredibly LOVED you are! Also, to my fabulous, smart, bff Louise — one of the best, kindest, and most honest people in my life 🙂 LOVE LOVE LOVE you both so much! Birthday hugs to you!!
4. Essentials. My SIL swears by essential oils to alleviate/cure/sooth her kiddos and any ailments they may have. I have always used them to relax and stuff like that, but never in any other way. Recently, I got a really really bad cold (I hate that word bc ‘cold’ just doesn’t seem to adequately indicate just how MISERABLE I was!) and my SIL recommended to use some essential oils in a vaporizer and on my neck to help with symptoms. Y’all. Seriously. I felt so much better the next day, and after a few days of using the oils, I was on the mend (well, that paired with a hefty shot and some antibiotics — but the oils started it!). I am VERY intrigued by this and I know my SIL swears by them, so I am curious, do any of you use essential oils? If so, what are your favorites??
5. Thread Tunes. You know it’s gotta be about amore this week, and the tune that just screams ‘love’ for me is John Legend’s new song All of Me. The lyrics are so sweet, and I just think John Legend has an amazingly beautiful voice, so… happy listening!
6. Sneak Peek. Y’all I am so giddy over my session with the Hutchison family I can hardly stand it. It will be hitting the blog early next week, so be sure to check back — you will NOT want to miss it!
