A Montana Birthday

I’ve celebrated 21 birthdays in Southern California, 3 birthdays in Phoenix, 8 birthdays in Nashville and this year I celebrate in Whitefish, Montana!!!

I’ve recalled many things about this year…..all throughout the year….probably because this year was not like any other. The obvious reason is due to the loss of my little sister, but also a move across the country- to a foreign land.

FAITHFULNESS :: this is what I have learned the most about this year. Gods Faithfulness is the real deal. He truly is near to the brokenhearted and faithful to complete what only He has begun.

My pastor reminded me last week that “Obedience is more important to God than sacrifice.” It’s easy to get caught up in and focus on “sacrifice.” but the danger in this is that we usually turn that around and make it about us- what we have done- and what we should get from our sacrifice. I’ve been there. I’ve done that. However, when we focus on obedience….and adhere to what God is calling us to in our own life…..GREATER THINGS HAPPEN! Reed and I have experience the favor of God this year…in so many ways. I am humbled to be used in bigger ways that I could have ever imagined.

I had no idea what would be in store for me as I claimed Montana as my home last summer. All I knew is that I left an amazing community of friends in Nashville….and I wasn’t sure who would fill those shoes in the Northwest. Silly me for thinking that God would forget about that detail as the friends that awaited me here…..met me with arms wide open and I am blessed to have such incredible women in my life out here. These girls are like sisters to me…who have come beside me and loved me as if we have known eachother for years. The crazy thing is- we haven’t even lived here for a year…..but it really does feel like we have been friends forever.

These sweet girls planned the most amazing “MONTANA BIRTHDAY” for me this past week…..here’s a peek at the fabulous details that awaited me as I arrived. Creativity does not lack here in Whitefish, Montana……these ladies constantly inspire and encourage me.

Thank you for all the wonderful birthday messages…..I am blown away by all the LOVE. My day has been bright…..and I thank you. xoxo

French Toast Birthday

My life has been blessed with such sweet friends. And this girl here….miss Elisha Guido….is one of those girls that I just adore here in Montana. She has such a big heart for people….and truly helped Reed and I as we were preparing to open up our shop. Elisha loves photography and also runs the radio station for Fresh Life. Ya, she’s pretty cool.

The girls that I run around with are super crafty and creative [did you expect anything other?!?]. They throw such FABULOUS birthday parties for each other and I was honored to photograph this French Toast themed birthday for Elisha.

This party was styled by Carrie Rowe and Sara Trammel. Great job, girls!!!

The photos below include the MENU:: Fresh squeezed orange juice, Chocolate dipped bacon, Homemade cupcakes, Homemade French Toast, Homemade syrups, Lots of toppings, Fresh fruit and Mini donuts!

 

one year ago…today

One year ago today…..I spoke with my dad for the very last time. It was the last time that I heard his voice- the last time that I heard the words “I love you” come from his mouth. I can still hear the sound of his voice. Oh how I miss him.

One year ago today…..I was drenched in love and mercy. Im thankful to God for His amazing grace and for the community of people that gathered around me and loved me well. Your kindness will always be in my heart.

Thank you to my friends, The Katinas, who helped me honor my dad that day.

Below are two videos….that I hope will encourage you to tell your STORY and live your life with purpose….until the very end.

XOXO

In honor of my dad….I sing Amazing Grace with all of my heart.

Lets Go Camping | a styled session

It’s about time that this session has seen the daylight!

Vanessa and I collaborated on this shoot last summer, while we were both living in Nashville, TN. It was hot and humid….did I mention that it was so hot that we were sweating glistening?!? Oh my. It was ridiculous.

Well, this styled shoot was the last one that we dreamed up together before we both packed up our homes and headed to Texas and Montana. Little did we know that we would be styling and photographing another session just a few months later for Creature Comforts!

It’s always an honor to COLLABORATE with Vanessa. We will be joining forces again in just a few days for JOLT | a creative shop in Nashville, Tennessee on June 5th. For more details click here. We’ve got ONE seat left, so if you are interested, please contact us asap!

Our VISION for this session was something campy + woodsy with lots of details……

Hair & Makeup by:: Sherita Leslie
Flyfishing Gear by:: Daniel White
Calligraphy by:: Ginger English