Just the way you are....

2012-02-11T11:22:00.000-05:00

It is rare that I meet someone who just gets it. But Amy does. She is a real kindred spirit to me, and such a beautiful person. In the process of finishing the nursery, her unfinished canvas made for a fun backdrop to the blue chevron. While in art school, she made this amazing chair, and I couldn't resist. "m" smiled cause he liked it too. Generations of cuteness as this little child was the sixth baby to wear this little cowboy costume. I thought the Chevron stripes was a nice modern twist. I couldn't get over the cuteness of the little guns, and that we actually got him to hold one! He had to have surgery the day after this session was taken to correct an retina/eye disease that would have destroyed his vision if the doctors hadn't have caught it and since the disorder is so newly discovered there are very few doctors that know how to correct it, but there just happened to be a doc here in NC that could do the job. From what I have heard so far, he is doing well now! I love babies, and I know when they are born, it's a fascination on every parent's mind about how little bitty tiny they are, and yet so BIG!!! BIG BIG life change, BIG strong voices, and most amazingly, How much they change our hearts to love so much BIG-ger than we could ever imagine we could. I have decided to stop posting on facebook for awhile (I get too distracted and follow shiny objects when I go there). I will link all the blog updates to the facebook and twitter updates, and write more on the blog, devoting the time to expression and study and giving of info when I find it. Watch out for big changes in the format of the blog and all that I will have to offer my viewers and new to the business photographers.

2012-01-03T18:33:00.002-05:00

Spent two days slaving through journals, and reading and praying and thinking about life! Never have I really sat down and made a true mission statement before, but thanks to Dave Ramsey's EntreLeadership bookI finally did it. What a huge and wonderful thing to spend time on really. I feel like a laser cutter instead of an old saw lost in a messy room!!! Bring it on 2012!!!

2011-12-14T11:14:00.002-05:00

I want to win an iPad 2 from @nancyray ! http://nancyrayphotography.com/?p=8383

2011-10-16T21:31:00.002-04:00

A perfect beautiful weather day on Sat eve. Nothing could have cramped my style or mood! Not even the Invasion of the "phototakers" (is what my daughter proclaimed on Sat when we were there for a mini at Joyner). (note to self: do not plan a session at Joyner on a Saturday eve!!! too many photographers!!!) All was fine though as we walked through the thicket, claiming our territory. It is a good thing that Joyner is big and has plenty of opportunities. Seems strange that the park is now invaded literally with people taking pictures of families and such. Hard for a "layperson" to just be there enjoying the grounds really. Although I did see a couple ignoring the masses and making out on a blanket any way! So funny. With all the commotion, a mini was a little more difficult on a 17 month old. He just wanted to play and run and explore! That is what a park is for right!!! My daughter was a trooper. As my husband volunteers his time to church to play the drums, it ends up being a 14 hour ordeal where he is gone either practicing from 11am on Sat and gone by 1:30pm and then waking up at the crack of dawn to leave for Church the next day. The babysitting situation caused LeLeebug to have to come with me and help with the lighting and session. She did amazing and wasn't happy about being there at all, but I promised her I would run around the park acting like we were riding horses. Yes, I did it and looked completely ridiculous, keeping my mind on her and delighting her in that, I lost my self in creative play with her until my feet started to hurt from trotting. I was wearing boots that made the perfect curclunk noise and she felt like that was perfect. Hating when she is the subject of my photography, only I think because she wants the real me front and center and not me behind a big black thing keeping my attention away from her and knowing her, the real her, I was able to snap one last image before she begged me not to bring that thing out again. I agreed.

2011-10-04T21:45:00.001-04:00

Dabbling with and getting feel for if I would like to work on shoots like this, commercial/fashion/model work... Tell me, what you think? Today I worked with one of the best colorist in town, Yvette Cannas (Owner of Bacio Salon) and a new fashion designer in town named Karyn Huskins (owner of Owner, KSH Couture, Inc.) Huskins...

2011-10-02T22:38:00.002-04:00

Yes, I have been a blogging maniac for the past week. What in the world has happened to me???

My day has ended great, not only was I reminded of the Love that has been lavished over me undeservedly, but also, I found what I was looking for all morning long!!! So thankful! That I didn't freak out and I learned patience.

Thankful for this gorgeous day and for it not being too cold or too hot. Thankful that I have amazing people to photograph each day, my small group, for skinny dip and chili nachos, for my children to be tired enough to go to bed on time, and for good friends and even though our roof is leaking at the moment, I am thankful for a roof over our heads.

I have had many questions lately about my processing... and honestly, I go through phases of this or that, but love paintings... and that is kind of what I am striving for, for my photographs to look like an old painting without using the brushstroke program to get that affect. I have always loved alternative color, and artistic expression in each image that asks for that.. and yes, black and white I never tire of.

2011-10-01T23:15:00.001-04:00

Today, near perfect weather!!! no one could argue with that unless around 7pm you were still outside in short sleeves eating ice cream like we were (then you might have gotten cold). Two sessions tonight, one with my own youngn's (which is what Papaw would call them). I have decided, who needs look and smile.. that will happen in-between ART and LIFE and GIGGLES and LOVE. Smiles, they just happen. I want to make photos that capture all parts of my children, and this I want to do with yours too. Knock Knock, let me in!!! let those kiddos run around and jump off walls, and pretend they are playing a digerydoo with a limb that fell off a tree. (not sure how to spell that one). Then we can have some fun!

Good night all my faithfuls.. I must get some sleep, two more sessions tomorrow.. or maybe three.

2011-10-01T00:28:00.000-04:00

I am thankful that today was a good day, fun to be with my friend Betsy shooting :) We went to our Pastor's home to photograph their beautiful, smart, funny, and delightful children.. barely made it before the rain came in. Then, BBQ place for a big juicy hamburger and a veggie plate. Talking about ART!!! and life and crazy family stuff. I loved it.. one of the first times I feel like I have connected to a kindred spirit here in Raleigh! So nice. I'm up too late, not writing well at the moment! Feeling like I could fall face down on my desk asleep!! I thought the pictures turned out great from tonight, considering.. it might not have seemed as though it would be so.

2011-09-24T22:43:00.002-04:00

2011-09-23T13:19:00.000-04:00

Now who in their right mind could ever get in presence of this little boy by and not have a big smile on their face.. he is unbelievably cute and sweet and adopted out of a not so good situation. I love adoption stories!!!!

I love Downtown Durham... and of course, I love this family. Despite a near encounter with the rain, and incredibly sticky hot temps and it had to have been 100% humidity, they braved the storm, stuck it out, and then hopefully went to a place with good AC. I love this session!!! and if you are ever wondering, I think photographing downtown Durham is awesome! a step above Raleigh in the creative department.

2011-09-19T21:19:00.000-04:00

Today and yesterday were one of those really special days where God's whispering in my ear. A Day for meeting another beautiful soul, a love between a mother and child. A day for a Farmer to be generous, and clients to wear creative clothing and be willing to run around and play, and hug and laugh. A Day where we witnessed a little calf whose mother couldn't make enough milk, and a human had to step in to keep her alive.

2011-09-14T15:20:00.003-04:00

I love meeting new people and being asked into their lives at such a beautiful time is remarkable to me. Photography can be a lot of things, but to me it is an expression of love for God's people. A way to serve others and give them a tiny bit of joy. I love to celebrate through the lens his miracles of life. To me it is sometimes just amazing that we are all breathing, more or less that there are beautiful colors everywhere, soft skin and life abundant. What Grace we live under. I find art and beauty everywhere, and want to capture Art + sentimentality + Being Alive, and celebrating life. I want all these elements to come together always to take a very personal approach for each full session. I loved this session because Lucy and Lee were completely okay with me moving furniture all around even though they just had a baby and times have been a bit hard. This beautiful piece of furniture was His grandmother's and I fell in love with it immediately. Don't you love it! Man, they really don't make things like they used to.

2011-09-09T12:26:00.000-04:00

2011-09-07T23:12:00.000-04:00

It seems that new things are headed this way. I absolutely love artistic endeavors, I love my job. I love beauty and God's creation. I love rustic places, creative clothing that has been thought of by a very artistic kindred spirit. It is like we work together even though we have never met. I am inspired by passage of time, light, shadow, space, history, beauty in spirit and in reality. We sweated bullets during this shoot, no air, 95 degree temps, A. was a trooper, Yvette was genius.

2011-09-05T14:40:00.000-04:00

I know I haven't blogged in a long long time.

Yes!!!!! life, motivation, priorities, soul searching, call it any of those things! The important thing is that I am back, deeper aware of my own soul, what's deep within and what is important.

Light shadow, evoking, and timelessness. I love these captures, they make my heart sing, and hopefully they will also for you.

M. I. A.

2011-08-12T23:48:00.003-04:00

Yes, Missing in action! That is me!!! catch me on facebook more than here lately for sure!

A grandmother's dress, vintage location and a little Sound of Music inspired this picture. Annie loves to sing and They are so in love, cannot wait for their wedding around the corner!!!

I love the feeling of this one, it is real, it is love that lasts.

2011-05-23T15:49:00.006-04:00

Today... my house is still a wreck, because I had to get my walk in because I am 40 now and there isn't really any more denying that I am staying forever young... SO I had to go the 5 miles before I had to get a job out (which one session can take up to 10 hours to process) and then I had to sort out the coupons because it is the last two days for triple coupons at Harris Teeter and we ran out of laundry detergent right when ( I never pay full price for laundry detergent any more since Su Soutter's Intentional Home has changed our lives!! ) So we ran out of detergent just in time for three big piles of laundry to be ready on floor waiting and my daughter added to the heap by having one of those dreams and then had an accident last night. So I had to do all the coupon thing before I could even start the laundry.. then it was time to get the kids and take them to the pool because there was a big tennis meeting and tennis sign ups tonight and etc and etc.. I had one of my husband's beers in the end. It tasted good... I hope this sounds familiar to someone out there.

Other than that, I haven't really much to say tonight.. falling asleep as I type. If interested... Check my other two blogs here and here where I pour out my heart regularly, otherwise, don't have much to say. Just want to share some of my latest sessions. Falling asleep now.

The Sweetness of Newness:

2011-05-19T15:15:00.002-04:00

The Sweetness of Newness is becoming one of my favorite things!!! Like a minor not all consuming addiction I suppose. For example, what I get to experience over and over is the Newness of a baby straight from heaven which is glorious, the newness of an early morning cup of coffee with the sun breaking over the horizon and the dew still on the ground, the newness of a brand new Summer just starting, and brand New friendships that I have been praying for have been amazing, And the thing I have been waiting for for four years now, drum roll..........a NEW WEBSITE underway!!!!!! with pricing, and a shopping cart!!!!!! YES!!! And the ability to upload your slideshows in bulk and not one by one.

I am giving myself one month to put together a brand new site, much much better than what I have (hopefully)

The other thing that is new, are these amazing frames that I am now offering my clients!!! They are so so so so cute!

A Farm Mini to Remember:

2011-05-06T08:42:00.003-04:00

What fun spending the day on this beautiful property in Raleigh. Looking forward to going back soon!

Mini's can be so much!!!!

Pictures Speak Louder...

2011-04-09T14:41:00.003-04:00

I don't know about you, but these pictures speak to me very loud and clear about the love, the newness, the beauty of this brand new from heaven little boy and the freshness of the love and relationship between him and his mother.
The love, the sleepiness of it all. It takes me back really to that lovely, amazing time with my two as well.
Enjoy!!! as If I could convince the world hire me for just this alone, I would be happy forever... I just love making this kind of Photo Art work. It moves my heart to sing in happiness!!! The joy overflows every moment I am working. Thank you Brit for inviting me in during this special week of your life.

A simple visit. A friend. like a sister to me.

2011-03-18T22:17:00.001-04:00

A day of sunshine and laughter

2011-03-13T11:37:00.003-04:00

I like to think when I have a session, that the children I photograph will actually want me to come back and play again. That is my goal, yes that and great pictures!

Woman Seeking Art

2011-02-26T13:21:00.004-05:00

I just discovered that I am on a new journey to find the Art that comes from not only my own soul, but the soul of others. I enjoy the creation that comes from the mind, and the passion that propels one to create and make.

In the past couple of months, a new spark has been ignited in my desire to study more the position of Art in communities and public spaces. In addition to multilayered facets, the presence of a designed object or objects, designed buildings and interior spaces and specifically designed exterior public space how that generates revenue and vitality to an area.

Fun, can't wait to explore this topic way more in the years to come.

Now off to photograph a beautiful family and a little one that will soon arrive.

The 14th is LOVE Day: 14 sessions for 14

2011-02-14T10:08:00.004-05:00

14th of February I think one of my favorite holidays because we celebrate Love. I love hearts, I love pink and red together, and I love the beauty and miracle of life and pondering over the Gospel of love. And that I am truly grateful.

In order to show my love to all my clients or potential clients I want to offer a one time Valentine's special.

14 sessions for $14.00 (sitting fee only up to four people only) To the first 14 people who submit all three things below:

Here is how to be considered for this offer:

Just post a comment here on the blog about how much you love your sweet children and your thoughts about the Evolve's photography.

Tweet about Evolve Studio Photography's Blog, copy and paste this: http://www.evolvestudiophoto.blogspot.com is offering 14 for $14 and post a link to that post here under comments.

Then Post on your facebook page a link to this blogpost: I love Evolve Studio! http://www.evolvestudiophoto.blogspot.com is offering 14 for $14, and come back here to post a link to your facebook page.

The first fourteen families to do all three of these things I will waive the $150 sitting fee and it will be only $14. appointments must be made for March and April 2011 only.

New.

2011-02-11T21:05:00.002-05:00

A beautiful new baby, and a love of a mommy, at the very top of my list of things to photograph!

More preciousness

2011-02-08T19:30:00.009-05:00

Sometimes pictures are all you need to tell a story of poetry and life.

2011-01-30T17:06:00.004-05:00

Honored to be let in and to be able to be apart of their lives, my clients are not a job to me,
honestly, I invest my heart. Love you guys!! Thanks for having me over to make your life art today :)

DESTINATION Wedding: Julie and Paul

2011-01-25T23:47:00.004-05:00

I was pregnant with my first child when I met Andrea in the College dark room. My son is now 9 and all I can remember is that we had a lot in common and we became friends right away and the rest is history! Andrea and I worked together a little when I was in Nashville, She tells me that I am one of her inspirations, but I tell you if it weren't for her I wouldn't be doing this at all.
She was the one who encouraged me to get back on track in 2004 and come back to my first love, photo artistry.

Now that we live 9 hours apart, it was such a joy to get to work with her for this amazing destination wedding in Jamaica! Julie and Paul and their whole wedding party were just fantastic and extremely beautiful, and that makes our job almost easy! The processing takes so much time, and I tell you the truth, this is just a sneak peek, but the rest might take me another month or so to get through! Hope you enjoy! I really have had so much fun making these images! And Andrea and I had a blast working together again.

http://www.evolvestudiophoto.com
http://www.andreahallgrenphotography.com/

Cherish Every moment.

2010-12-17T21:14:00.007-05:00

Every time I am blessed by God to be in the presence of a newborn baby, a child that is fresh from heaven, I remember my own experience in becoming a mom for the first time. What an amazing adventure!!! From the first few days of new powdery diaper smells, to the yummy soft skin, to all the hard work that comes with raising a young child. It is one of the most treasured times in your lives, whether it sometimes seems like that or not.

I also can remember when each day felt like an eternity, and when someone asked me what I had been doing all day long, I couldn't come up with a single thing that sounded worthy of still being in my jammies at 5 pm.

"Oh I cannot wait until this stage is gone... I would think so often!!! I honestly regret ever thinking that in the past!!! So this is why I am trying to treasure even all the cut pieces of paper and the 100,000 drawings and pieces of paper that are all over my house. Sometimes I find myself saying, OH I wish... and then I think about an empty room, an empty table and just me and my thoughts, I think of my grown children and they are missionaries or in NYC or LA trying to make it big, or married someone from Canada or Paris.. and I suddenly remember to cherish every moment.

2010-12-15T13:31:00.002-05:00

Just trying to find some photos of my babies to print out as gifts this year, and I realized, I don't take enough of my own!!!

Yiikes. They are growing so so so fast!!

Last year: 2009

This year: 2010

Beauty

2010-12-13T14:09:00.002-05:00

Working today on getting slideshows up, shopping carts available, and orders that are coming in out the door. The unfortunate truth is that I will be working non stop until December 21, but this will be the day when my long vacation with my family begins. I am going to need and ask for everyone's understanding; with working as long and as hard as I have for so many months, my family and house have been yearning for more of my time, and I just haven't had it to give. This will be a focused time for me and my children and my husband, so please forgive me if I don't get your project out before this day, If that becomes the case, I will get it to you the second week of January.

Love to you all.

Cute Peanuts, and Big Sisters

2010-12-08T19:15:00.002-05:00

Whew, With all the hard work and many many more long hours than you can imagine!!! these past three months, we've been getting back on track, rebuilding the business and trying to get back ahead instead of behind, I can honestly say I am finally really seeing the fruit of all the labor. The office is organized, our systems are in place, and we are ready for you all in a new amazing way in the New Year. Boy, does it feel good!!! I am not out of the weeds, but getting close!

Laura has been amazing in showing me what a gracious God we have, she is unbelievably fun to work with and if it weren't for her, I might have thrown in the towel. Thank You, thank you thank you my dear friend, and May God bless you always...

I celebrate today

2010-12-06T21:52:00.004-05:00

I celebrate beautiful people in my life today. Just a solo celebration, but I have many thoughts of why God has chosen me to know some of the most wonderful kind generous people on the planet.

With love to you all!!!

p.s. I got to do a session of just one of those families right in my own dining room.... First time EVER that I photographed a family other than my own without leaving the house. LOVED this one. and Love these people!!!

It is no mistake...

2010-12-05T23:28:00.004-05:00

It is no mistake that Dirty garage doors, and Michael Jackson dance moves made it into my session today. What a fun day!!! Went to target to get the $20.00 Ugg look-a-like boots cause I knew it was going to be a long day outside in the cold. And I tell you the truth, I loved it!!! Bring on the December and January sessions!!!

it all ended in great Hot chocolate and what could be better than that!!!

Be FUN and your session will be fun too!!! Make it a memory. Be spontaneous. Be your self. Wear fun clothes. Laugh & Love... then drink some hot chocolate with whipped cream.

If you are looking for me...

2010-12-01T21:11:00.002-05:00

If you are looking for me, you might think I am MIA, but I am actually not. I am and have entered my busiest season yet, right when I was about 300 hours in kind of what I call work debt from this summer. Taking time off this summer was a choice, my most important choice I have ever made. Spending time with my Grandpa, meant dropping it all.

You see, there, in his simple life, he didn't have a computer, or internet connection. Just a phone and a tv. That is all he needed and wanted. Simplicity. Nowhere for me to plug in, log in, tune out.

We looked out over the yard together and observed the flowers together, I held his hand, cleaned his house, helped run errands, ate dinner with family that I haven't spent time with in 10 years or more. Sat with my brother in the same room for over three days in a row.

I think of this and I cry, because I am so thankful for all of you, knowing me, people who do, know that I am working as hard and as fast as I can to get everyone's orders out promptly. If you need anything at all, e-mail evolvestudio photo [at} gmail {dot} com.

Laura will answer any questions that she can, and I will too just as soon as I can get to them.

Thanks for your continued support and patience. We love you all.

.

creation.

2010-11-16T19:12:00.002-05:00

I get so overwhelmed with joy when my children create something beautiful, something stunning, something that makes me laugh until I cry. All I know is that It brings me such joy to see that creation process flow from their imagination. It occurred to me today that when my kids refuse to create or are hard on themselves for not being the best, and start comparing themselves to other kids, and beat themselves up, it stops that process, halts it in its tracks. I feel heartbroken because I see the truth, and they can't seem to grasp it in that moment of emotion. I see their beauty, I feel the joy and I miss their just loosing themselves in the creation process. Oh, how clear it has become to me. That this process is not about us at all, what we can gain from it, it is totally about our Creator, loving us like a father and finding joy in our total trust in Him. Trust in Him to provide, trust that He is enough, that we don't need to compare ourselves to others, or make it about wealth or fame.. just creation.

So, it only makes sense if we are made in God's image, and he is our father...that it brings him joy when we are what he has called us to be. When we are living at our best and creating from our hearts, God must be pleased that we get it. How clear it is that so many people are miserable when they are not inventing, creating, and or making something out of nothing.
It also makes sense that when we make it about making money, competition, or being the best, then we are kind of missing the point entirely. So three words for today, Create. Trust. Joy.

Decided on the Cards FINALLY

2010-11-12T11:37:00.011-05:00

Flat cards
25 cards $49.00
50 cards $98.00
75 cards $148.00
100 cards $196.00

Folded Cards

25 cards $75.00
50 cards $150.00
75 cards $225.00
100 cards $300.00

Premium quality cards that will knock your socks off... and be an amazing gift for all your close friends and family.

Last Years Designs

One Day til' Jamaica

2010-11-03T00:07:00.004-04:00

Working late, and not getting it all done I am sorry to say. It seems like this trip has taken way more planning and shopping than I could have imagined!!! Hours and hours of standing in line, driving from one place to another!!! But I am very excited for this opportunity that has come my way. Please, all those of you who would love to pray for me, this would be a great time to do that!!!

Delivered a session tonight. Working on orders, and if you do not have yours yet, that means I just haven't been able to sit down and send it. Trying really hard to find the right intern to help with the small tasks.. I have had a session every day for two weeks and now I am about to leave!!!! sending love and thanks to Laura and her beautiful family!!!!

Today, I was reminded of what moves my soul when I create or who's art makes me feel that same way. Oh, I look forward to what is to come. One person who I can't seem to get past is David Arms. he is a painter from Nashville Tn and I LOVE his work!!!!!

Tonight, this session spoke to me. I love it. Something about it, makes my heart sing. Been photographing this beautiful family for Three years now (extremely hard to believe!!!) And they have stuck with me through ups and downs, and through all my life craziness and have become one of my fab 5 core client families. I hope to photograph them until the girls get married!!

4 day Count down to Jamaica

2010-11-01T13:46:00.002-04:00

Day one: Filled with running around, getting sessions out, orders out, picture edited, paying taxes, a session later today with a new client :) and I actually got my walk/run in this morning. So far a very productive day. Now if I could only find a great sun dress on super clearance for this weekend, I will have achieved all that I need to. Anyone been to Jamaica who can send some pointers on how to pack!!!

Working on several sessions, this pic, I love.

Yesterday, not perfect, today, Perfect.

2010-10-30T22:20:00.007-04:00

I had a hard day yesterday. A day of struggles and feeling fear, and dealing with annoying issues. It was a hard day, and I walked through it, falling apart at times. I went to bed in prayer, and figuring out how to trust in the midst of the storm.

Today, I woke up to a chilly, near perfect day. Not all my struggles were gone, but the weight of them had lifted, I got to see some long time clients and their beautiful children, photograph a neighbor and her beautiful three children and meet a wonderful new family. All of this took place on a near perfect weather day. The kids had something to do all day long (dance class, bowling with the swim team) and topped it off with our "best-neighborhood-in-the-world") spooky trail. We laughed, or at least I did...a lot that is. While my son, with his chest high, proudly proclaimed that he wasn't scared at all, Thad, hiding with a squirt gun, startled me. He squirted me right in the neck and I screamed and then started laughing like crazy just to turn around to be startled by a man wearing full tree camouflage attire. He, stepping out in front of us unexpectedly, (this all in the daylight) made me die laughing. I was the one laughing and randomly screaming, not the children as they planned would. truly a memory for the record books, and it is all on video.

Looking forward to heading to Jamaica this weekend, but kind of bummed that the hurricane is heading there nearly at the same time. Surely it will be okay, hopefully that is. If it is meant to be, Andrea and I will be photographing a beautiful Martha Stuart Wedding, and why not go for the gusto... maybe by some random blessing, we will get it published in an amazing magazine maybe even Martha Stuart Weddings, only to find an adventurous life of destination weddings waiting on the other side of this opportunity. I like to dream of fun things like that, but I remember my Papaw's wisdom, and he would say, "Kimberly, take it one day at a time and take each day as it comes." This is what I plan on doing.

Beautiful day

2010-10-29T21:22:00.000-04:00

I have not time today to express in words what this picture does for me.

up too late

2010-10-28T23:20:00.003-04:00

one of those long days, where I should be in bed, but I am working late. Good thing tomorrow is a Teacher's work day and my husband is home from School and I don't have to get up and rush around! just took a full clove of minced garlic, a big glass of orange juice, because I feel a cold coming on!!! :(

forgot to post this pic on yesterday's blog. love it and there are many more to come. Getting caught up but still behind now on purchase orders!

A time of discovery

2010-10-27T20:52:00.008-04:00

Life is Good.

2010-10-22T11:13:00.002-04:00

Today, the kids get out of school early, that puts me in a difficult place when I am trying to work today! But let me see, hmmm... I love my job, God has blessed me richly with great friends and a relationship with Himself, He has restored my life, given me a beautiful family, and a love for my work. It is a beautiful day, started out with a walk with a very good friend. Hmmmmm. Life is good.

God is so smart

2010-10-17T14:03:00.002-04:00

Now I know why God wants us to get a day of rest each week. 1. to get renewed and refreshed and to reflect on His holiness and what this world is really about. 2. if you work all week non stop, they you will feel like your going to die.

Since I haven't stopped working this week in order to get caught up from this summer, I feel like the second.

Nonetheless, I haven't stopped loving my job and loving what I do. Getting the work out this week! I will take my Sabbath tomorrow!!

What a beautiful day for a session with long time customers of mine. Gorgeous night last night for a Wedding!!!

What a Gorgeous day!

2010-10-15T11:02:00.002-04:00

I woke up this morning is a fairly good mood, considering my daughter had an accident in her bed, all the clothes are dirty again, and I was up half the night because my son slept walked and had a nightmare and my daughter woke up with a bought with diarrhea, woke up soaking wet from another night sweat (I guess due to early hormonal changes) all to find out that our heater quit again!!!! I am sorry, but we just do not have $6000 to fix it this year. Please God, I am praying for a miracle. Crazy night to be in a good mood I suppose. Fairly normal night actually.

Putting Chili on tonight because I just like chili and soups on cool fall days. Hot tea, a little Pandora and a space heater while I work today is perfect.

My business recently almost fell apart and if it weren't for Laura coming into my life and taking some of the duties that needed to get done, I would have lost it all. Working through hard issues in business, I realize that I am an artist through and through... not a flashy trendy make you feel good kind of rock star, but a real soul searching, dedicated, and ever thinking in the forms and textures, and the two dimensions. My work can get moody and it is about a connection to beauty found in the moment, a connection to the heart and soul and how that translates into the art that is the two dimensional form. One half of all I do is about the art of the processing as well.

Hope you all walk with me and stick with me through all the discoveries this year that are about to unfold. Oh, and please know, that for the past three years getting my name out there, I wasn't charging enough to actually make a living. It takes an enormous amount of time and energy and expense to run this kind of business, I have had to raise my prices slowly. If someone is charging less than what I do, they are not making it without someone supporting them.

So please, I know it is hard to invest in something, But remember, photography is one of the things in your life that will last way after you are gone and the investment is not only for you but for many years to come a beauty and gift to so many generations ahead.

The past few days, not having the time, but my soul moved and I started to push myself and require more in the area of post processing. I hope you find the changes and the moving in the direction of my heart pleasing and wonderful, for I like what is happening and what hopefully will continue to grow in the next year or so.

What a beautiful day.

2010-10-13T16:33:00.002-04:00

Work non stop, until I am caught up...this is my path until Friday

2010-10-11T22:52:00.002-04:00

Two miracles happened to me this week. God is good and I am thankful. Thanks for being patient still, almost caught up!!

2010-10-07T11:08:00.003-04:00

Commercial Work has been an interest of mine for some time, love the way this session turned out! Could share many more images, but just don't have much time right now.

One of my first Commercial shoots... well, actually second or third.. but I enjoyed it thoroughly! I would and will be gearing up for more of this kind of work maybe in New York City soon!

Still in my Work until I drop phase, so if you are trying to reach me, I will see if Laura can get in touch with you.

To Adore

2010-10-06T16:07:00.003-04:00

Just photos today and a link to my latest newsletter.
I am too busy right now to really blog... just working night and day and non stop to catch up from this summer and the busy season is hitting so I have to be caught up by Friday... you can all pray for me!

ADORE

2010-09-07T22:19:00.002-04:00

I wish I had something profound to say tonight, but really, I am just worn out and needing to go to bed to get some rest. I wish I had some amazing sermon prepared to talk about Adoration and what a beautiful word that is to me, but I don't... I do know without a shadow of a doubt that I adore these pictures (and the people in them) Lately I have been in prayer about my work blessings the people and families I photograph.. and the answered prayers are showing through!

Status, I am still behind on revisions, administrative communications, and getting clients their work. I will get caught up, So please bear with me. I am thankful for your understanding.

When it rains it pours. My cell phone is still dead as a doornail. I am in that in between limbo decision making process of whether or not to get the new blackberry touch screen or the iphone or just stay with verizon another year. Any thoughts, post them here on the blog.

I promise I am going to have this contest for a needy, yet super giving family out there... they could be either physically or emotionally needy (going through a tough time, like Cancer or Job loss.. ) And yet their spirit of giving and reaching out shoudl be an example to all... still be thinking about a family you know. I am positive that I will get the details by then end of this week (this time I am hopeful that will happen) put together. I had a few more sessions show up out of the clear blue and wasn't able to get to any admin work at all!!!

Here are a few from the week before we left for Michigan and Tennessee.

The Perfect Weather

2010-09-04T07:10:00.009-04:00

The inspiration for writing a blog t his morning when I really need to be taking a shower and getting ready for my shoot!!!

Isn't it awesome in the midst of all our storms that God sends a day of perfect weather.

I am sure you are all struggling with something today, but if it is possible, step outside and soak this morning in. I am headed to Chapel Hill again today for a session with a couple of beautiful families! I am so thankful for the temp and the sun, Thank you God!!!

Considering we just missed being slammed by Earl, I am amazed! Congratulations to all of the wedding photographers out there and all the beautiful brides out there who can breathe a sigh of relief today knowing their wedding isn't going to be rained out today!!!

My most recent struggle is that my daughter suffers from night terrors and I can never seem to get used to them. I have finally decided I need to do research and move forward with some help for her. It doesn't happen every night, but enough now. I was always under the impression she would just grow out of them, but she is almost 6!!! And a mother can never ever get used to waking up out of a deep sound sleep with her child sitting up screaming and inconsolable. Last night she woke me up during those sweet moments of actually falling asleep!!! and I felt like someone poured a bottle of rapid heart rate stress attack in my body, and from that moment until a good two hours after her episode, I couldn't relax!!!

I NEVER will EVER get tired of photographing newborn babies! I love the sounds, I love the little grunts as they sleep. I love the smell of fresh baby skin and the powdery diapers. But most of all, I love to experience and encounter that fresh "falling in love" "fell hard in love" mother baby connections. It is like being in the presence of a little piece of what heaven will feel like.

Yesterday, I was in Winston-Salem! and was introduced to how close we really are to this wonderful fun city. I really enjoy a two hour drive, especially now that my phone is broken, I am forced to think, reflect and not grab the phone and think of who I would like to call or need to call. Couldn't do that yesterday or today for that matter! Kind of reminds me of the 90's, when cell phones were only for the rich and famous. By not being connected to facebook or the web or others at any given moment, I felt a little trapped, but a little free. So until I am reconnected, I am going to enjoy and savor the moments I have unplugged.

Blackberry Death once again

2010-09-03T09:08:00.004-04:00

The Phone saga continues. WILL I EVER LEARN!!!!!!!!!!!

Just when I think I will never ever ever let something happen to my phone, just when I utter those words under my breath... It happens. THE FREAK accident happens.

Our trusty old water bottle that we have been using for two years now sprung a huge fatal leak in my purse at the Baseball game. Now, the blackberry is no longer.

My ultimate struggle is that I want and need an iphone, but cannot get one until my husband's contract expires in March of next year. So, it will be a day or so before I can decide what to do exactly and or I will not have a phone until I receive a new one from the insurance company.

If you need me, you can leave a message or reach me through my husband until then at 740-7825 (Novo Design phone number until then)

Today, I am headed to Winston Salem for a newborn session and will be back later today... e-mail too if you need me (evolvestudiophoto [at] gmail [dot] com )

P.S. I will need all my contact info again, because the phone will not turn on any longer. I had hopes that it would dry out, and turn on, but that is a negative.

Just a few more days

2010-08-30T11:39:00.003-04:00

When a season in life that is fleeting is so important and so valuable and so meaningful for you, your children, and your grandchildren, good photographs do something that nothing else can. I am so happy to have been given this opportunity to work with you in making your family's story sing out loud for years and years to come.

----------

Through learning of so many people who have lost so much this summer, then my own family's' loss of our most wonderful Papaw, I am so deeply moved again with why I am doing what I am doing for all of you.

This Job, I love, with a passion

Thank you for your patience through this tough summer. Without your care, compassion, and your support I wouldn't have been able to keep this thing going.

Memories of being able to spend

just a few more days

with my Papaw before he passed away are now a few of my most valuable treasured possessions. No money can buy those precious hours.

Being with my family was an extra wonderful thing, I will treasure this time forever. Work? it didn't go anywhere; it was right here where I left it. I am extremely behind schedule in my revisions, but will have plenty of time soon to catch up. Thanks again for your patience and support!

I also have discovered in the past few days, Since I spent a few weeks surrounded by old family, old memories and lost in trying to remember, and not forget.. and lost in grief, also with hitting the ground running, getting my family ready for school, planning a birthday, and one session after another, that I have become a bit disconnected. Forgetting things and I even double booked myself for a day... and that has never happened.

I am working on plugging back into my present life here at the house in Raleigh.

love,

Kimberly

I am back and BEHIND!!!!!!!

2010-08-23T12:40:00.006-04:00

I'll have to say... that if I lose all my clients I wouldn't blame any of you. I wouldn't blame any of you if you walk away from me at this point! I have never taken so long to get your work to you, I have never taken so long to reach people and to get back to new clients and to send invoices!!! I have never been so far behind!!!

With that said, what I had an opportunity to do this summer was priceless and I couldn't put a dollar sign on it! It was worth every bit of everything I could loose from taking all that precious time away from work.

Many of you have stood by me this summer when life got a bit crazy with my Papaw's illness getting so bad. You stood by me while I had to drop everything four times now for a week at a time to see him, to hold his hand and to tell him for the last times ever that I love love love him forever. You have cared and sent notes and have been so kind!!!

My family, as small as it is, and as spread out as it is all over beautiful Tennessee and NC, was all together this week for the first time in 20 or so years. My children met 2nd cousins that were their age, that they didn't realize they had.. it was amazing. That was a little last gift to us from Papaw's death, he helped us drop every busy thing that was keeping us from each other and we all did it, dropped it all to find that family is so valuable and worth the time invested!!!

And as much as I will miss my Papaw, or as I must say, there was a packed house at his funeral and not a dry eye in the room... it will be more than me that will miss his life, his smile, his sense of humor, his love for children and families, and marriages, and the church family, and spreading the Gospel of Jesus through passing out his little tracks every where; I will carry him and his heart for people, youth, the elderly everywhere I go. He put a spark in many people, and hopefully I can spread that spark through my life to many many more people to come!!!

If I can be a third of the person he was... that would still be a good thing.

With my deepest thanks and apologies, I will get all caught up, but thank you for sticking with me and caring about how much this relationship means and meant to my life.

The Funeral

2010-08-19T10:36:00.004-04:00

Dear Clients and Friends,

I am posting this to assure everyone that I will get back to you, either on the way home or next week. Still devoting my time and energy to my grandmother and my family during this time.. This has been a very emotional summer, and very very hard week.

I apologize for all the delays this summer in getting work out and getting back to my clients. I love you all and thank all of you for your support, prayers, and love.. and guarantee that my Papaw appreciates it too.

I wish you all could have known him, but you never know, If you have a grandfather that worked on the Southern Railroad, or worked on the trains in France in the ww2, or if you have a relative that was rehabilitated from the Knoxville rescue mission... or somewhere else in Knoxville, he might have influenced someone who was dear to you way back when.

with love,

Kimberly

On the Road

2010-08-12T21:58:00.004-04:00

Hard to get to all the e-mails this week... on the road!

Time

2010-08-06T09:57:00.007-04:00

What has been on my mind these past few weeks is TIME

For the most part, all my life, time has been an abstract concept for me! Being such a right brained thinker/ visualizer type person, time literally doesn't have a definition that is constant and solid.

If you are not a creative person, I know you can relate in some regards. It is the times when you are doing what you love, in the midst of that moment, time disappears. An hour can either fly by or take an eternity to pass depending on what I am involved with. It makes no real sense.

Because I am doing what I love for the most part, time, of course, disappears and hours fly by.. years are gone in a blink of the eye.

When I close my eyes at any given moment, I am able to cross the boundaries of years, being able to visualize moments that were and feel just like yesterday, when in fact they were almost 15 years ago.

And now, I am having a hard time believing that it is time to say good-bye already.

This week has been a difficult week for my mother's side of our family, and I appreciate your continued prayers. There are such good things to share and still fun and laughter, but there are and have been as well many many tears shed almost on a daily basis for me.

I know so many people have been through this too, so you understand... Since the death of my mother, my grandparents have been so much to me, so dear to me! Their presence, the way their home smells, the sounds of their voices, the foods she cooks, the stories that my Papaw would tell me about his childhood, and how his father left him and his little brother and their mother to fend for themselves during the great depression, his war stories, how he fell in love with my grandmother, and all the things they did for the community, preach at the mission, volunteer with so many missions...My Papaw's prayers for me, his love for Jesus, his sense of humor and joy... or how my Mamaw would take us hiking in the mountains, and to ride roller coasters when she was in her early 70's, cook us the best banana pudding on the planet, and make us laugh from our gut... I couldn't have asked for or deserved such great people to have been mine... for so many years!!!

So, needless-to-say, I am having a hard time saying good-bye. But, now my Papaw and Mamaw are suffering so greatly, I am praying that God will have mercy and take him soon. Please join me in that prayer.

If I have the privilege of living as long as they have, I have a good 49 more years to live, and live well.

So for today, soak in and enjoy your grand parents and parents, each and every minute!!! and love!

A picture I took at father's day, even though Papaw could hardly walk, he still has his sense of humor and they are so beautiful to me!

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

My daughter and her talent, keeps us laughing and amazed.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

I am forever grateful still for Su Soutter and the Intentional Home for her teachings on Couponing. I don't have time to put all the energy that could be put toward it.. but I am definitely thankful for these savings!!!

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

A TRIP

Due to what is going on with my grandparents.. my work life is going to get a bit crazy for the next month. We are headed to MI, and then I have agreed to help with my grand mother for a week when I return.. My Mamaw who is not doing so well with the stress of what is going on, hasn't slept well in like two years, but now she actually hasn't slept in months, so she is loosing her mind quickly. My schedule this month will have to be flexible and I appreciate all of my clients prayers and understanding. Since both of my parents are deceased, this will be the last time this sort of situation will happen like this, and I really want to be available to help.

When I get home... and school starts, I will be able to get to work full force and full time. I am looking forward to that, but for this next month, I am going to have a crazy schedule.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

A CONTEST and WEEKS of specials coming soon.

I thought I would have time to put this together by now, but, due to the circumstances, I am going to give myself a break and wait until September to announce some of these things.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Details Smile

2010-07-29T07:58:00.003-04:00

It is the small details that make me smile from ear to ear.

Lia drew this family portrait of us yesterday. The portrait itself is kind of ordinary and just like you would see another child her age draw (except for maybe the expressions on our faces)
But I stopped to pay attention and noticed that there was something more; an interesting process happening in the back ground.

A Bird is saving another bird from danger with a long rope. I would have missed this if I hadn't stopped and asked questions!

Love your children today by taking the time to pay attention to their details and ask questions about what they are thinking.

This made me smile this morning along with waking up really early to spend time with God.

if you are in MI and would like to set up a session with me, I will be available from Aug 8th - 13th 2010

2010-07-28T09:33:00.009-04:00

This summer has flown by!!!! And if you were wondering, the answer is YES!!! I am behind on schedule for work. I normally get a job out in one to two weeks, and I am a month behind!!! That June full of illness, a trip, two weddings, and a full shooting schedule, and full of swim practice, swim meets, and all the normal regular stuff like totally gutting the office, switching from PC to Mac and Nikon to Canon equipment, has put me a bit behind. And to top it all off...we are about to take the chaos road out of Summer !!! I am however, working as hard as I can now to get back on track and will be caught up here very soon!!!
And I think I am very close to finding that perfect person to work with me!!!

We are headed to MI for our yearly fix-up of our "summer retirement home" which is what I call it, since we will never be able to sell the darn thing after loosing around $50,000 in value a year after we moved 2007. We have been, by default, been given the title of Landlords... to people over 13 hours away. Although as lovely as this predicament sounds, it hasn't been all that bad just yet. I am, however, holding my breath with a lot of prayer!

I know I have posted this picture before, but, if you were ever wondering... this is what a summer journey looks like for us..

So, this means, if you are in MI and would like to set up a session with me, I will be available from Aug 8th - 13th 2010 for sessions! (Flint, Lansing, Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor) Please contact me at evolvestudiophoto (at) gmail (dot) com.

MAKING MY HOUSE A HOME:

Around here, I am on a mission to make my house a home so that I can stop blaming everyone else that it looks terrible and take responsibility for making it great and pouring my heart into it! We are physically unable to spend money right now, so I am trusting God that he is providing this strong desire for a reason and that he will provide the super deals to come!!!

I am still looking on craig's list every day for a great deal.. yesterday, I hit the jackpot when I went to look at a $30 World Market Chair which I love!!! and found a $30 storage coffee table too!!! It looks so awesome and helps to bring a since of coziness to our living room.. which was well needed!!! plus it stores all the photo stuff that I couldn't find a place for to save my life!!!

You see, we have no extra closets, and no storage space in the back yard and very very little attic space. So we have had to eliminate everything but what you see and somehow make it all work on a "design without a dime" budget!!!

GOOD THINGS: I ALWAYS COUNT MY BLESSINGS!

Two things that have been so good this week... My son, who is almost 9, fought me all summer on reading chapter books.. in fact, he has fought me always about this issue even though he has been able to read really well since he was 5. He would have been just fine to sit and read baby books until he was 17 or lego magazines. I bought him the Percy Jackson series of books, because I heard through the grape vine that those were really good, and then I offered to pay him $5 to read the first book.
and the second. Now, he is 1/2 way through the 3rd book and busts out laughing.. won't go to sleep at night.. etc. He is hooked on Reading!!! I actually had to bring my price down per book.. so I wouldn't go broke.

He literally made up a song/rap to promote reading to other children!! I was shocked and amused in a great way!!

Second, my daughter is at art/dance camp this week.. and it gave me some time to spend alone getting revived. I devoted myself to reading Romans this month or longer and am always astonished at how many answers are in the Bible and if people would just read it for themselves (talking to myself too) , it would just speak for itself. I wish I had known about this when I was 8 and on!!! hind sight is always 20/20!! I tell you, don't look to Christian people to represent God.. or the Church, because so far what i have found to be true is that we all are hypocrites and lost people and Jesus is the only one who can represent God in any shape or form, and the only way to discover what an amazing heart Jesus has is to read about him and study his word. This has been so good!

Third, during the couple of hours this week that LeLee has been in camp, one day I was able to do one of my favorite things in the world.. that is to spend time by myself texture hunting and finding interesting subject matter to photograph that may or may not be humans. I usually find my favorite images at the flea market or at junky antique stores. FUN and inspiring!!!

Take me down MEMORY LANE:

This week was like a dream in some regards! I got the privilege of working on a commercial project with a client and we just had a ball. I found a perfect location that exceeded our wildest dreams!!! And the owner was so gracious to let us use it knowing that I am just at the beginnings of building this kind of portfolio!!! It was around 100 degrees in there at the time, I looked like a drowned rat that had fallen in soot when we finished!!! and we drank lots of water!!! But, it was fabulous!!!!! and I was so inspired that I didn't want to leave!!!!

Celebrate life and laugh at myself often, celebrate love and learn to give it even when it is not given, celebrate each moment and remember to forgive and have mercy as God has shown me mercy. Do all you can do each day to gain wisdom and knowledge and give myself, my talents, and my resources to those who are in need. Work really hard for 6 days a week and take a day of complete rest! This is my personal mission statement, a way of life, and a way I choose to strive for each day.

What are some of your mission statements? Do you have one?

Some of the sweetest moments happen when you least expect them.. be ready!!! Sign up for a winter mama click class with Evolve!! Classes held in January and February!!!!

Evolve Studio is awesome and I am so glad to be apart of such a beautiful business and be around such amazing people.

I posted this slideshow on FB if you are my fan or friend there.. this will be a repeat, (my heart is to do weddings this next year by referral only, or to be an associate shooter for someone more well established in the wedding industry... while my husband is in school full time getting his masters.)

A Trillion Years

2010-06-28T09:11:00.005-04:00

So it has been since the dinosaurs were still alive since I blogged last, or at least in my own tendency toward exaggeration, this sounds about right.

The reason I haven't blogged, well, it is simply time. Who out there besides me doesn't have enough time in the day!!!

Time between a heavy shooting schedule this summer which I am overly thankful for, lots of revisions, which I am really behind on, and the total renovation of my office and bath, my strange stomach illness that lasted two weeks!!! Two Weddings!!! and the on-going illness of my Papaw and a call to tell me that he was getting worse sparked a need to drop everything and go spend some time with them.

Also, with all of that, swim practice and camps and summer activities!!! Whew!!! Why didn't my mom have more children!!! Where are my sisters and brothers when I need them!!! It really does take a whole lot of people to raise children and there is just me and my husband over here. Sometimes when I am feeling like I am a bit overwhelmed, I remember this and think, I am doing the very best that I can!!

Now, the big news is that I am searching for the right person to hire here at Evolve Studio. This person will love children, need to work a couple of days a week with lots of room for growth, believe in my mission, great with children and a people person, Computer Skills, Mac or PC a must, photoshop (will train) a good eye for design, organization and a passion for what I do for people. I will be taking applications and holding a group interview soon. This person is not a photographer. I will be looking for photographers soon.

Bathroom renovation... $300.

Green

2010-06-02T23:23:00.004-04:00

Green. That about sums it up for the interior of our house. Yes, the previous owner loved the color green. I actually think they might have misunderstood the concept of "going Green" in your home. Seriously.

When we moved in the Kitchen was mint green, the dining room candy apple green, the trim ( a small strip in between the white) painted kelly green. My office was a light olive/bright green, the stairs are painted a darker kaki green with a slightly different minty green. Each room upstairs is painted a slightly different version of Mint blue green. But the bathroom is purple.
So. Since I am affected emotionally by color, this has not been good for me at all. Oh, did I mention the green kitchen counter tops?

Need-less-to-say my once fascination and affection for the color green is completely gone. Green, I used to be dazzled by you, but now you make me ill.

Guess what Color my son wants to paint his room, no, guess again... if you guessed dark green, you are right. I am sorry for being a terrible mom, but I had to put my foot down and say no.... no way!!!! After almost two years of living with these green tones bouncing off the walls making us all look a little bit sickly, I just couldn't allow it. Sorry little E.

Phew, Now we have the kitchen painted, My daughter's room painted and, drum roll please, My office is no longer GREEN!!!!!!!
We have been working our kaboodies off since Friday of last week!!!! (exhausted!!!) These are the last few photos you will ever see of my office being green... and you will see what I mean. After moving everything out of this space to totally redesign it, My kids found it to be a great new play zone.

Pulled out the camera! the new Canon.. :)

Green, Green, Green, Green, Green.

On another note, We also refinished the bathroom... or are almost done with it, for probably a little less than $300. This includes new floor, sink, and toilet!!! Sink is not hooked up yet, but it is looking good. A far cry from the completely unusable space that was there before. I love it and cannot wait until it is in working order. I can just taste it!!!!

As good of a photo I could get with my 50...

I have another couple of things that I am hoping to work on starting this month. I am having a Model search for the perfect Senior in Highschool (actually a Junior for the Pics). Looking for an elegant timeless beauty, not necessarily a thin, typical "model type." This person not only is beautiful, but has character and much inner beauty. I want to showcase this session on my new Seniors/Models website that will be launched in the Fall.

If you are a Junior and are going to be a senior this year, if you know of someone that fits this description, go to my Facebook page, (evolve studio photography) and post a picture and a description of why this person possesses the classical, timeless beauty on the inside and out. (This is for one winner only. This winner will receive all session fees waived and a cd of proof prints!)

The other personal project I am going to start on will be announced soon!!! so excited about it as I was inspired just today!!!

Just Pictures

2010-04-29T19:36:00.003-04:00

a contest

2010-04-29T14:48:00.000-04:00

“Check out http://www.loveaffairworkshop.com! They’re giving away prizes & a seat to their workshop on the blog this week! Go enter to win!”

give away

2010-04-28T19:14:00.001-04:00

Check out http://www.loveaffairworkshop.com! They’re giving away prizes & a seat to their workshop on the blog this week! Go enter to win!”

I Love Contests and I want to win these prizes!!!

2010-04-19T14:36:00.001-04:00

"Check out http://www.loveaffairworkshop.com! They're giving away prizes & a seat to their workshop on the blog this week! Go enter to win!"

Open Heart to Weddings

2010-04-15T13:22:00.004-04:00

I love love love a beautiful creative Wedding, and especially love to see two beautiful people commit their undying passion for each other in such a lovely environment! When I am photographing a wedding, with all the things that could be stressful prior or after, the process is pure joy.

Due to being pregnant or having really young children for the past 9 years my relationship with Wedding photography has been kind of on off on off on off.

This year, after this summer, my life is about to change for good. I will no longer be a mom to a preschooler and both my babies will be in school. I have been praying about it quite a bit.

So...I am opening my heart to weddings once again and am especially excited about the themed engagement sessions that will come with each wedding package. I will be opening up the doors of Evolve Studio to Weddings once again to accept only 6 weddings a year.

These will be my new prices:

Simplistic Weddings

Prices made simple

$1800.00
4 hours + one second shooter
Color corrected only images on CD
Permission to print agreement

$2500.00
6 hours + one second shooter
Color corrected images on CD
Ten Art images
Permission to print agreement

$3600.00
10 hours + one second shooter
Color corrected images on CD
25 Art Images
Permission to print agreement

$4850.00
12 hours + one second shooter
Color corrected images on CD
30 Art Images
Permission to print agreement

Rehearsal Coverage $275.00

Additional hours $450.00
(includes 100 extra files per hour)

Pints and Canvases can be added to your Wedding package $30.00-$500

Add a Leather Bound Album $900-$2300

Perspective

2010-04-14T19:35:00.005-04:00

More annoyingly often than not, I find incredible opportunities to turn ordinary processes into analogies of our walk toward and with a Holy God and it happens to me, quite frankly, on a daily basis.

My friend Su and her family came over for dinner last Friday and Wow what a treat to have them over! It was so good to spend time with a friend and get to know them better. Making time for spending time with others is a theme this year. To slow down and to say, yes, come over to visit.
First thing when they arrived, her son brought me the azalea flowers pictured above and I was so moved. What a kind and respectful thing to do at his age.

I knew I would blog about these flowers eventually, but it didn't occur to me at the time that the blog entry would end up being about perspective and not just a kind act.

When I was photographing this bouquet, I couldn't find the best perspective, so I kept switching and moving and changing until finally I achieved the final outcome that I desired. And it wasn't until the processing of these images that it really occurred to me; a lot like making a final photography image beautiful, If we don't have a perspective grounded in truth about our lives and we are not viewing the experiences from the good lens, the final product will not be what we hope for. To add more to that, to have the final outcome in mind, helps to shape the the outcome tremendously. (thinking of Philippians 3:7-14)Think I will continue to read this book for the rest of this year and read all the cross references that I can.

This month has been beautifully hard and wonderful at the same time. And speaking of Philippians, I was blessed to spend time with Cas Monaco, who has written so many bible studies. She is an amazing transparent woman of purpose whom I have grown to love as a friend. I had the privilege to hang out with her and her husband Bob on Sunday photographing her in Downtown Durham! We had fun running around the town searching for great backdrops.. and finally having a cup coffee and a whole lot of rich conversation at whole Foods afterward. They are amazing! check out her blog here.

[I am not worthy] Gretchen Mathison is a stunning amazing photographer whom I admire greatly, she is based in Durham. We decided to do a kitchy shoot photographing her family at the Durham festival. Caught this sweet moment with her hubby.

This month we have been working on fundraising for Super Dylan again! Yes, it is time for the Great Sride's walk fundraiser this year again! Last year flew by!!! Dylan is vibrant nimble boy in our neighborhood who suffers from Cystic Fibrosis, although if you met him, you would never know it. We all love Dylan and are excited for the big Flap Jack Jam that is happening on April 24th on the Lakemont Pool property from 4-7pm. Come join us for flap jacks and live music and a grand silent auction!! All for Lakemont's little Dylan and the possibility of finding a cure. Please consider donating to the walk and sponsoring me as I walk to raise money for this little man and his family to have better hope for the future!!! You can donate here!

Our goal is $500.00 or more and will continue forward until I reach that goal! Interested in setting up a Dylan Mini, just get two other families interested and we can meet one family at a time in the same location.

These families did!

This week I got to see some clients I hadn't seen in so very long! and wow, they have really grown up so much!

Much Mulch & More

2010-04-05T09:41:00.012-04:00

Mulch and Vacations not being the first thing on the expenditure list when we are dealing with a huge loss in income, this is a blessing for us! The next door neighbors cut down three trees and gave us all the mulch.. you don't know how long I have been praying for Mulch for our back yard!!! So I am so thankful!!!

Last week, Spring Break turned out, by the Grace of God, to be a special week for my children! We drove to the zoo on Monday and it was just spectacular weather and the animals were all out and having a great day. We saw the giraffes, river otters, exotic birds, and watched the Gorillas do some not so tasteful things, but my daughters favorite part was that they carried around blankies. My son's favorite part was the big round air vents that blast you with air in the bird house.

Thursday and Friday we got to spend the days in Wilmington NC on Wrightsville Beach, thanks to wanting to photograph the Dogwood Lane Spring line on the Beach!! Thanks Beth! We worked hard and especially my daughter who modeled the clothing.. kudos to her and her attitude! I think she likes being the center of attention when we work together! And I loved the Blockade Runner hotel! very nice!!!
Only one melt down on my children's side and one with me since I feel like I am at my top stress level these days..I don't feel like I am handling anything well at the moment.

Then Easter weekend, Saturday, we got to spend the day at Duke Gardens photographing precious twin boys

Which while that was going on, Terry accidentally locked our keys in the van at 12:30pm and we had to somehow get back into the van and get to The Summit by 2pm.

I loved being at The Summit Church so long and hanging out with the worship band during the second service. And watching the Baptisms outside! So thankful that At the summit, I know that the gospel will be preached every Sunday and it is a healing word, not condemning. Church is definitely a hospital for sinners, not for those who are in need of no help!!!

I met this beautiful couple and snapped a few pics in the back of the parking lot... they came to church perfectly dressed for a style shoot!!! See Alex's blog about it here...

Sunday, Praise God for Julie and Phil and Vanessa!! A beautiful Easter fiesta, with pinatas and the biggest mexican food spread I have ever seen!!! What a great way to spend Easter Sunday!!!

This Spring, I have discovered two things about myself... 1. I would love to work with more designers photographing products in this way, and 2. because I have decided to stop and pay attention to the details this Spring, I have been reminded that my deepest call in my heart is to create things that move the soul.

So many changes this year at the homestead. There is a possibility that we will be putting out beautiful home on the market this year :( (sad face). It has just been a bit too much for us these past two and 1/2 years with the job losses and the moves, and oh-my-goodness, the bills that seem to be always haunting us!!!

Terry got into Grad School here at State and out of over 150 people who applied, only 28 got in! So we feel like it is definitely the right thing to do. Downsizing for the next two years might just have to happen... or I will have to start working way more than part time!

I have a hard time remembering to go to the scripture with my woes, but this year, I have really learned to take that seriously! Because it helps to restore my soul in ways that this world could never! 1 Peter 1:6-7 6In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. 7These have come so that your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.

A Picnic in the Park

2010-03-26T15:07:00.002-04:00

(Thanks so much Urvi for taking my camera from me and snapping this one for us!!!)

The other day was Mommy day at Preschool and I, on the way to Bible Study, had failed to write this precious event in my calender! So with the look of a small puppy dog begging for food, my daughter convinced me not to leave for the study after all... I had to stay to catch this memorable event. I tell you, being my last child, and now that she is five, I am trying to just soak in these last days of her being a toddler. I love these days and will miss them tremendously!!! So, precious!!!! My last baby is growing up!!!

Take time out of each busy week and just be with a friend; listen to, be listened to, and just relax for a few minutes. What a gift! So thanks Kim for meeting us today fun, fun! Wish it was a bit sunnier and warmer! That one moment of warmth from the sun was very nice. The kids didn't seem to mind as they rolled down the hill, found lots of treasures, and ran around all over the place. Good to be outside!!!

εαρινής

2010-03-22T13:13:00.004-04:00

Usually, Spring puts a pep in my step, motivation in my day and bright happy thoughts of success, love, and just savouring the aromas in combination with the feeling of the warm sunshine finally hitting my pasty white skin while the crisp invigorating wind glides over my face. LOVE this time of year and this weather!!!

Beautiful Colors and beautiful clothes go together. Visit Dogwood Lane for these fashions

My daughter and I went on a Spring Hike and found some signs of Spring to cheer up our day.

Go out and find some beauty today, make art and again
Psalm 34:8
Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him.

Sparkle

2010-03-19T11:10:00.005-04:00

Today, Oh, What a glorious day it is when you can go outside in the morning and see the sun coming up over the hill, and my teeth were not chattering and I was not freezing!!!

Speaking of Spring! This Sunday I have added a Mini Day. Please come join me for a family session at Duke Gardens on Sunday. I will be there all day and have openings for around 4 - 6 families. Weather is going to be stunning!

I am so excited that it is Spring!!! Yes, (doing a cartwheel) my favorite time of year!!!

This morning I was reminded of how I first felt when we got to Raleigh. It was like the streets were paved with Gold. The Sparkle of Mica

Wikopedia Definition: (The mica group of sheet silicate (phyllosilicate) minerals includes several closely related materials having highly perfect basal cleavage. All are monoclinic with a tendency towards pseudo-hexagonal crystals and are similar in chemical composition. The highly perfect cleavage, which is the most prominent characteristic of mica, is explained by the hexagonal sheet-like arrangement of its atoms.)

And Mica reminds me that we must "Taste and see that the Lord is Good."

MRI/Treatment Plan: Video Update from Matt Chandler

2010-03-16T23:28:00.000-04:00

As I walk through a minorly hard time compared to Mat Chandler, His strength and courage are helping me stay focused on the Gospel and stay grounded in truth. Follow his story here.

MRI/Treatment Plan: Video Update from Matt Chandler

2010-03-16T19:57:00.003-04:00

Small Tradegy in the great scheme

(I regret having to send this message, but want to make it very clear, that I have been backing up all files and will still be working on a different computer during this ordeal. So I will still be taking appointments and will be continuing forward while this is worked out).

Honestly, the trials and tribulations of this year have strengthened my faith, helped me in so many ways see life from a new perspective, and understand what life is all about... from our own raw experience

As we moved to beautiful North Carolina from frigid yet super hip Grand Rapids for higher ground for my husband's career, one by one the economy devoured the three businesses he worked for and one by one in 2 years all those job opportunities fell by the wayside. We quickly went from everyday life and big plans to survival mode and didn't want to admit we were apart of all the statistical information that no one could avoid reading about in the Sunday's paper or seeing on the 6:00 News.

Out of this so called tragedy, My husband's freelance business was born.

Novo Design Studio

officially is off the ground with many projects in the works for this coming year! So proud of Terry's hard work and his dedication to his passion for Landscape Architecture and the effects of environment on community, space and the human experience. With his years of experience and understanding of his industry, he is quickly becoming very well respected and his name is becoming well known within the close knit community he serves.

When we make it to summer, I will breathe a big sigh of relief and probably lay down for a nap in the sun on a blanket at Duke Gardens.

As of now, my business, being a very part time endeavor while I raise my two beautiful young children,

took off here in Raleigh/ RDU is still going strong.

I love love love love my work and it is my life's passion!!! But yet again, it is part time.

All this to say,

My computer has died today. (I am not ready for my computer to die!!!!!!!!))))))

I knew it was coming, I heard the squeals and screeches here and there and have been praying no, not yet.

Not technically yet, because I am still trying to get the last few files off of it as I write and am praying that when I euthanize it tonight, I will be wiping it clean and starting all over.

You see, I have a PC.

With Mac envy from the very beginning, I just couldn't swing the cost of a Mac when we first moved here. I started my business from a laptop actually and graduated to what I thought was a great computer until this last month.

Although I have spent countless dollars on the latest virus protection, and getting my computer professionally cleaned by experts twice this month,

My computer has been attacked again.

It has been taken over by some (need-less-to-say) some idiot out there that thinks it is a challenge to enter other people's computers and ruin their lives.

Planning to go Mac this Summer, can't swing it just yet still, and I am just not sure what will be permanently lost as a result from having to start completely over!!!!!

lease use this e-mail address
evolvestudiophoto@ g m a i l (dottt) com
==========

instead of

info ({{[ at )}}] evolvestudiophoto {{{[[dot{{{}}) com

This is scary, because my computer really is my business.

But I am saying good bye. and When I re-birth it hopefully by re-loading all the software that I hope I still have...I hope won't have the same issues, and I can make it til the Summer!!!

My e-mail has to change, because this is where the virus keeps coming from. You see, I was an idiot and in one blog post posted my real e-mail address. I didn't know at the time you had to be careful about doing that!!!

Big lessons, save everything on external hard drives, and if you have a PC, run your virus protection software a million times a day.

P.S. I am really really disappointed in Norton 360
----------

2010-03-15T23:56:00.002-04:00

This young woman is wise beyond her years... I love to read her posts..

http://sheworships.com/

2010-03-14T11:32:00.002-04:00

One man's trash, another man's treasure.

This cute little display is my daughters "treasures" she has found on the ground in the house and outside. It always amazes me that she can find delight in a pile of rocks or junk. I was thankful when she started this journey for the sole reason of just getting anything little off the floor. Then, the treasures became this beautiful exhibition on her dresser top.

Matthew 6:21 Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.

Whoooo Hooooo Thanks SU!

2010-03-13T15:17:00.001-05:00

this shopping trip included an 100 oz Tide Detergent, organic juice, Two big bags of expensive Barber chicken fingers, 2 tropicana oj, 6 mega rolls of charmin bath tissue, Alpo dog food 10 cans, three boxes of cereal, 4 bird’s eye steamers, a $10.00 of Angus Beef and much much more!!

Run Run Run

2010-03-13T08:12:00.006-05:00

My 5 most favorite things in the world in order of importance...:

1. God

2. My Husband and Children (family)

3. My Friends

4. Photography

5. and Running

My out on a run thought of the day:

Everything in my list above, and I am sure you have your own, is difficult, challenging, and takes commitment, lots of time, patience, and willingness to feel and enter some form of pain. But with that willingness to feel pain comes Joy, rewards, love, overwhelming satisfaction.

A canvas my children and I made awhile back reminds me daily that we have claimed these adjectives over our lives and family. Make your own so easily.

A. Have your children write on plain paper and pencil words you give them or they come up with on their own.
B. Next, discover the adjectives that describe your family, or describe what your prayers are for your family, what you believe in, then with a sharpie write them in a creative way all over the canvas.
C. Take the words your children wrote in pencil, and trace them with a sharpie and cut them out just a bit.
D. Next, take some Elmer's school glue and water it down just a bit and decoupage the words that your children wrote onto the canvas by painting a smooth layer of glue and water mixed and then painting over the paper with the same mixture. let that dry for 4-6 hours.
E. Pick out some paint, (we used interior house paint), that matches your decor and paint with a mixture of paint and water (to dilute it)
F. Next, add a little of color, or draw or paint on top of this when it is dry. We used pencil to draw an outline of a house and painted the hearts red. You can also decoupage more cut out images if you like.
G. this is a 30 x 36 and I bought it at Jerry's Art-o-Rama for around $12.00 on discount.

What was a fun project turned into my favorite piece of art so far in my whole house. (aside from the beautiful pictures of my children)

To finish my most favorite things list (not in order):

6. The whole book including the illustrations in
The Jesus Storybook Bible by Sally Lloyd-Jones
7. Any song sung by Bebo Norman or Mac Powell!
8. A good facial
9. That feeling when you get to wake up and are headed to the airport to fly somewhere exciting and new.
10. The smell when I roll down my windows driving through the mountains in the spring or summer in North Carolina and Tenneessee
11. The blue ridge parkway
12. Good art, ceramics, and one of a kind creations
13. Etsy
14. feeling listened to by a friend and being able to reciprocate
15. the smell of fresh cut grass in the summer
16. the aroma of hamburgers or chicken cooking on the grill
17. starbuck's coffee and coffee icecream
18. my down comforter and three pillows
19. going on a missions trip
20. my women's bible study
21. making art
22. throwing pottery on the wheel and the whole process of making it
23. 24
25. ice skating
26. an open market
27. fresh fruit and veggies from the farmer's market
28. antique and thrift store finds and shopping
29. gardening
30. cooking
31. reading a really good, helpful or all consuming book
32. hearing my children giggle
33. seeing my babies succeed at something good
34. Anthropologie
35. going to the beach
36. Sitting outside at a good restaurant on a beautiful warm Spring crisp day
37. volunteering and helping when I can
38. the sunshine and waking up to a sunny day
39. the feeling of knowing the car is packed and there is a long journey ahead
40. the smell of McDonald's drive thru in the morning
41. Big Cities and discovering fun places to visit within them
42. driving through flat plane farm land and seeing lots of beautifully aged barns and portioned off land for harvest
43. fried okra
44. the clouds just before a fierce thunderstorm (day dreams about storm chasing and wanting to get that magnificent award winning photograph of the clouds.)
45. hiking in the blue ridge mountains
46. going for long runs and walks
47. day dreams about visiting Europe more
48. making art with my camera
49. authentic Indian, Mediterranean, and Mexican food
50. a well decorated house
51. saving lots of money by couponing

2010-03-11T20:53:00.004-05:00

Bloggin' for a second time in one week!!! Whooo hooo! Now that I regretfully and painfully put my son back in public school and I will be working more during the days, hopefully I will have more time to keep everyone updated on Evolve's progress and the intentional life I am striving to live these days.

My new twitter identity.. a portfolio of images that make my heart sing.

This week I am working on getting a few jobs out and making a few CD's and beginning to market starting a new, a fresh perspective this Spring. It is time for Spring cleaning of the heart, soul and my business (oh yes, and the desk) What better time to have a new marketing fresh look, but on the day the red buds bloomed! Also, I have taken some pictures for Dogwood lane once again. Stay tuned for more fabulous fashions by Beth.

This sweet thing I have photographed from week one and what a delight! I enjoy spending time with them each session!

Working on intentional living this week, have started to coupon regularly, meet with a Godly mentor once a week, reading the bible because I have found that it is life to my soul after all, and holding every thought captive. Learning to put scripture into practice especially with my attitude and my mouth! Praise God!!!

I will be praying more about making more art, more of the direction Evolve Studio is headed. And believe it or not, after making an offer to a friend at Church about her wedding, It got me thinking that I am still open to photographing small creative weddings, and haven't really known how to target such a specific group of people. So I am going to once again crack that door open that and see what happens. Any one know of a creative wedding coordinator or designer, cake decorator, and or invitation maker etc...let me know :)

2010-03-09T10:09:00.008-05:00

The Bloggin' days are slow, In my winter sluggishness I am having such a hard time getting up to speed this year is compounded with desires to work on my relationship with God first, then family, then work. So work has been pushed to the third ranking in my time bracket, and Life is getting good and joyful again. Creativity is gushing out of me once again and I feel alive! Yeah!

BUT NOW it is SPRING!!!! and I am so excited!!!

One great piece of advice to all my potential clients, BE CREATIVE, and your session will be creative!!! BE FUN and your session will exude joy!!! The way that a session is successful and worth every cent invested is this... I am not just taking photographs, I am making heirloom art pieces for your family. WE work together as a team collaborating in the process to make the most fun and creative decisions.

Who says the most traditional photographs are the most beautiful? Think outside the box, and you won't regret it!
I find my heart sings when capturing the ordinary moments that turn out to be everlasting art.

You all know I love the Flea Market each weekend. I have yet to go there to buy a single thing, besides the kettle corn that is, but I do go there to get excited about textures, colors, and an eclectic place to force myself to see art.

Back on FACEBOOK only on FRIDAYS, however, my Twitter account is linked to FB, so if you see my posts from Twitter on FB and respond to me, I will see it on Friday and respond back. This keeps my life balanced and boundaries are a good thing!

Exciting News about the New Mama Click Class! If enough interest, I will be teaching a 7 week Mama "click" class at The Summit Church in Brier Creek. This class will be on WEd eve starting on March 24th at 5:45-7pm. Please go to my website and e-mail me if you are interested in joining that class. (http://www.evolvestudiophoto.com)

More exciting News!!! I am saving over 60% now on my groceries thanks to Su Souter and her great Coupon class.. she is awesome, thanks Su!!! :) (http://theintentionalhome.blogspot.com)

Never Say Good bye

2010-02-05T10:13:00.004-05:00

A famous lyric of (what makes me gag now) a Bon Jovi 1988ish hit song. Funny, that on the Grammy's, he actually was one of the entertainers this year! Okay Bon, I did have a crush on you in the 80's, but sometimes its just time to say good-bye.

That is just what I have decided to do to Facebook for a time, a season. It has been one of the most refreshing things I have done in quite sometime. Being connected to so many people was fun and sort of addicting, but I realized in prayer one day, that I really hadn't invested in people near me in person, maybe because I felt like I already had a full plate with so many friends to keep up with each day on FB.

For this season I have deactivated the FB and will pray more about whether it needs to be a permanent decision or temp. time of fasting from it all.

The digital age is amazing, but a little overwhelming at times! I do actually remember very well what it was like to live without it all around. Life was still complicated, but simple at the same time.

Well, here I am, now committed to blogging once a week! Yeah, we will see how that goes.I am still on Twitter and still here on Google Blogs.. so if you have a Google account, you can follow me here that way or RSS feed.

I am not a big news watcher, and for the most part, they seem to be wrong a lot here in Raleigh Durham, need-less-to-say this winter storm took me totally by surprise. I mean, I was just running in a t-shirt the week prior to this mess. And today, I would say is especially messy! Good thing I am not in Grand Rapids anymore!!! because after one week of the snow and cold, I am done! However, I love the fact that E and L got a chance to play and sled and build a very cute snowman with my T.

As I walk through these days ahead, one main exciting part of my life is being in the Summit women's new Bible study! I am looking forward to reclaiming some of my FB time and devoting it to reading the book of Philippians 50 times with my new women's group. Hopefully I will have most of Ephesians and Philippians memorized by the end of the summer! I have never studied the Bible quite like this, but it is awesome! I give it a high recommendation!

This is a real baby grand!

Speaking of God, each time I photograph a newborn baby, I fell like I can still see the glowing presence of God radiating from their new little wrinkled bodies. So precious and beautiful.

Other work this last month, not so long ago...

In School Everyday

2010-01-26T16:49:00.009-05:00

Saturday, {A GIFT} I was able, for the first time in a long time, go sit for four hours in an inspiring place, read, journal and be by myself to rejuvenate my soul, my mind and spirit. I've decided that this day was so profoundly important to my life that I am going to schedule one of those days each month from this moment forward! Never again will I go for a month without it!!!

Is there art everywhere or is it just me? If you look with intention, have your camera ready, at all times there is art that surrounds you. I consider a walk down the street a learning moment, and kick myself when I forget to have my "third child" around the neck. School everywhere without needing to pay someone else!

In between reading, writing, organizing, I could peek around and play with the camera, this is what I had to see for hours. I couldn't finish this cup of coffee because I felt like I had been injected directly into an artery with crack after drinking 1/2 the cup. But, I decided to use it for a learning moment, playing with what feelings you get with different angles and mm and placement. fun.

Being from Memphis, I have been surrounded most of my whole life by the knowledge of three kings. Elvis, MLK Jr., and JESUS.

I actually knew more about the first two for many years than Jesus, but now I am thankful that the tables have turned on that. Just to honor the second king's birthday, which is on the same day as my own birthday, I snapped this pic on the way out.

Because I grew up in Memphis Tennessee, MLK's real birthday was honored since the beginning, and I never attended a day of school on the b'day. That always made me feel pretty special.

Pastor JD was invited to address the city of Durham's elected officials. I thought that was fairly amazing since he practically preached a real sermon and was able to share what the Gospel is all about and why Jesus moves us to passionately care about our community and the people of the world. You can read all about that at http://www.jdgreear.com

This month I taught two mama click classes in Chapel Hill. The class is long, and there is so much to digest! But checking on the students each week to see how things are going and meeting one on one with each person in the first class to check on the progress. I find that I love teaching and it has been many years for me in the making to be able to bring it home.

I have big announcements about the Mama Click but will be revealing those to you in February!!! I need some more focus time at that coffee shop first!!

If you are a mom of younger children and you have either received as a gift or bought a big expensive DSLR and want to know how to understand how to control your exposure, get better images and take better pictures of your family and children and you are interested in starting a class in your neighborhood or with your friends. Please contact me at info at evolvestudiophoto dot com

Looking forward to meeting baby tomorrow!!!!

And yes to all of the questions, I am homeschooling my son this year and contemplating doing it next year. It has been one of the greatest experiences of our lives, and one of the hardest and most rewarding experiences of all. I am still learning about it all and would appreciate any great advice and resources. We are joining generations this week and go regularly to the gathering place.

2010-01-14T13:06:00.006-05:00

seeking inspiration from old paintings this month and hopefully I will see the fruit of that study soon..

A walk down memory lane

2010-01-13T14:09:00.016-05:00

Finally!!! At Last! I was able to skim through a few sessions and pick out some of my favs from last year! Unfortunately, I was only able to work on this project long enough to get to just a small percentage of my favorites of last year, but hopefully next week I can add some more images to this list!

Hope your 2010 is going great so far and I look forward to our session this Spring and Summer! If you haven't already signed up for a Full, 1/2 Session, or a mini date... Call soon to get on the schedule!

Cookeville

Nashville

Super Dylan Fundraiser!!

Summer Mini's

Urban fun! I miss you guys!!!

Sweet babies all year!

Baby E

weddings

The dogwood lane designs

My first trip overseas! Hopefully many more to come

Memphis Mini's

Elvis sightings

Watching my clients grow up so fast!!

In town...

2010-01-04T21:36:00.010-05:00

Oh it has been way way way too long but I have loved every minute of being away from this computer and spending time with my children and family!!! I am on a quest this year for balance and for achieving a good mix in my life of what I call Kimberly soup.

Prayer, and quiet time with God, time with my Husband and Children, and exercising, then work.. in that order! It seems that I get way more done at work when this order is followed.. and especially when I take one day off a week to rest! (That would be Sunday).

I write my resolutions to share with you the dreams that I have for this coming year. Each year I sit and ponder over what it is that I am doing and why, where I am going and why and how I will get there... Although, I am falling asleep tired at the moment, so if you come back next week, they might have been tweaked, a bit.

My resolutions for 2010:

1. I have several specific business goals to achieve, and working through some time management disciplines to be sure I get to it all each day.. This is a struggle for me for sure! I tend to be a person who likes to "follow shiny objects" during the day getting distracted with all the "home" needs, since they are right next to me.

2. I desire to make more to give more... to train harder to to give more... to learn and teach more so I can give more...

3. In 2010 I would love to branch out and discover many new things that have nothing to do with photography... such as culinary arts, marathons, reading a book a month, film production or Salsa dancing... I am sure what ever it ends up being, it will be a wonderful creative influence in my work and a refreshing experience. I am open to where ever the doors open on this.

4. Paris soon. 2010 or 2011 and hope to set up sessions in Europe by 2011 and see some dear friends soon. And Heck, since I really hope to get to Paris, I might as well shoot for Italy as well.

5. I guess it is time to get published, so my goal is one published image and to win some sort of award in photography.. this might be the year, any suggestions on where to start with this would be grand! I have no desire to pursue fame and fortune and I honestly am realistic about who knows my name and why...And who I will be remembered by and why, So, getting published would be more of a personal achievement and a challenge for me. And if I keep getting rejected, it will press me to keep getting way better at my craft!

6. In 2010, I want to teach over a 150 photo moms how to use their big camera's better!

7. jogging every day for the next 21 days. I managed from November 30 - December 31 to run every day 6 days a week for 30 days and it didn't make the habit stick.. so I am going to go for the extreme, 21 days non stop.. we will see. Maybe I will sign up for team in training and will let everyone know!!! That would be really really scary for me, but I would love to do it!

8. I am going to get a family portrait session made of my own family this year.. (shame)

9. Organization has become a personal challenge for me, and I realize that every facet of my day needs organization, not just work.. so I am turning into a very regimented individual and kind of diggin' it.. but, again, need to do things for 21

days in a row to keep a habit alive!

10. The most important thing for me this year is to learn to set specific goals to

achieve and not be so vague. To be intentional in every place I walk, in the words

I speak and the choices I make!

Happy New Year to You all!!! And Happy New Years Resolutions!!!

Arts Together Link to view

2009-12-01T09:36:00.002-05:00

Arts Together Link here

The Thankful Tree

2009-11-26T12:56:00.005-05:00

Today is the very first ever Thanksgiving we have spent alone as a family, so I wanted to make the best of it!! I am excited to say that we spent zero dollars on our table decor due to the fun creativity of my children and some blogs I follow!! Our table decor hike was a huge success!

Today is the day when we really dig deep into our hearts and find what we are really thankful for.. So here is my list:

I am deeply thankful for my church for staying true to God's glorious life changing truth and for our small group for being real and vulnerable and prayerful and most importantly my faith in Jesus. These last few years I have been in the fire of God refining me and taking my deepest fears and most strangling idols and turning my world upside down to lead me into His loving arms!

He promises never to give up on me, and His love is deeper and wider than I could ever ever imagine. I am thankful for the trust he has put in my heart and that my sin has been erased as far as the east is from the west and that I am loved with a complete love that I cannot completely understand.

I am so thankful for my family and my beautiful children whom I love so so much. They challenge me, they keep me laughing, and they have shown me love that I have never seen or experienced before they became a part of my life! I am thankful for my husbands hard work and his help and for him never giving up, but moving forward with Hope and excitement for the future.

I am thankful for our home here in Raleigh. Since my husband has lost the stability of a steady predictable paycheck, we have struggled through these past two years on little to nothing. I have worked longer hours than I ever thought possible, and have just tried to hang on sometimes it seems impossible.

It is actually astonishing to watch how God provides for our needs as they come to us. Before this all happened, we would have thought that our provision was what was keeping us afloat, but now we are sure it is God's provision. Thank you to all of you who have donated your skills or have helped us during this time! We love you all with the love of Christ. Never more have I appreciated the ability to come Home to our home and to live in it.

I am thankful for my trip to Memphis to spend a week with my brother!! Thanks to all my new clients in Tennessee who made that trip possible for me this year! I had such a blast even though it was hard!

I am thankful for gracious people who love Never before have I been stretched or have endured some situations that could have been way different if it were for Wisdom Grace and Mercy and love and understanding. I am overwhelmingly thankful for all my wonderful friends and clients who know my heart, know where I am and what kind of situation I am in and extend such love and Grace.

Finally, I am thankful for my business and the ability to give to my clients photographs of their families and children that become an investment to treasure.

DUKE Gardens in the Morning

2009-11-25T22:52:00.002-05:00

You really ought to try driving over to Duke Gardens first thing in the morning sometime... the dew on the roses is worth the drive!

Hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving tomorrow.. I am NOT going to be working, answering calls or e-mails unless it is an emergency!

Today my husband and children went out to find a tree branch to make a thankful tree. We stuck the branches upright into my jar of rocks from Greece and hung reasons why we are so thankful even during these hard couple of years!

I will post it later for you all to see. Thanks to Su at the Intentional Home for spreading that word and for being such a great place to go when you want to make your home intentional!! Love your blog and the info Su so much!

Tomorrow I have the opportunity to cook my very first Turkey! Usually we end up at someone else's house for Thanksgiving so I have never had the opportunity to take this important step in life... I am soooooo excited to cook Thanksgiving dinner for my little family here at home!!!!

We are headed out for an adventure hike while the Turkey is roasting to find decorations for our table. Then I think it will be a Wii playing day in between checking the football games of course.

Then I am vowing tomorrow marks the day when I stopped exercising regularly one year ago and now is the time to right the ship!!! My first jog of the Autumn will happen sometime!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!!

MORE CARDS

2009-11-24T19:14:00.003-05:00

BLESSINGS

2009-11-22T22:25:00.005-05:00

IT is that time of year again when the cool November winds blow and the beautiful golden leaves float with each breath of air that flows through the trees. It is a lovely spectacular site to me when I have a moment to sneak a peak out our back window to witness the leaves floating to the ground all while glistening in the bright sun which enhances their bright golden colors. It is a time to be thankful and thank God for all that is good and all that is hard (which molds us) as we approach Thanksgiving and Christams.

A STORY OF GIVING

Today, I was driving to a session in Chapel Hill, and I knew I was going to be late to my appointment because as soon as I jumped into my car and started out, I noticed that the gas gage was at zero!

So I pulled off the interstate at Lake Boone and as I was hurried to the stoplight, there was a sad older man sitting in a wheel chair with a sign that said HELP in his lap.

If a look could pierce my soul, his alabaster eyes sure came really close!

Dear man, please forgive me, because I had no money near at hand, cars lined up behind me and you were sitting on the opposite side of the road where I couldn't even reach you!!!

But needless to say, I decided from that point on to put some money to the side just in case I was able to see him again on the way out of the gas station.

I didn't see him, so, since I was late, I proceeded to drive very fast to my destination, listening to my new Praise and worship CD really loud in the car (which is so much fun when the kids aren't in the car!!! they always tell me to turn it down!)

When I pulled up to 15-501, Travis Cotrell's Jesus Saves was playing and there stood another man who needed help. At first, I thought..."he's not in a wheel chair and he looks too happy to be needy... and I would rather wait to give this money to someone who's look could let me know he really needed help..." So I tried to avoid his glance the best I could.

But! then the Lord pulled my heart so I rolled down the window.

All at the same time that the stars aligned so that the stop light was long enough and there were no cars pressing in on me to go and I had money set aside specifically for someone who was in need. I guess at that moment, it was a no brainer that it was meant to be.

So I proceeded to hand him a five and a one wrapped together. Which is not much to most of us, be honest. My husband is starting his own business since June things have been ultra tight for us, so I am beginning to understand, but really, it isn' t that much.

But when he reached out his hand, God spoke to me and moved in a whisper.

This man saw that it was more than a $1.00 bill, spoke out loud that it was more, and began to weep. God then proceeded to break my hard heart as well, and I began to weep as I drove away.

God wants us to give. Not just to bless others but to bless us as well.

I cannot describe to you what a blessing that was to my heart today, and hopefully, if it makes all of us aware to just be prepared to give and give generously, you will be moved and blessed by it all.

I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving and I will hopefully be posting blog posts more often come December when this busiest season is almost over!

2009-11-06T19:45:00.003-05:00

Holiday Card Templates revealed.

I designed some, enhanced some by putting a spin to a template and others are a template that I bought.. Please when you decide which template you would like, just count from top to bottom. 1-10

Hopefully next year I will have twenty more to choose from!

HOME

2009-10-16T17:49:00.003-04:00

In my long journey through Tennessee, it has been a great time of work and visiting family and friends... and a time of reflection and decision making. As I plan to leave Sunday or Monday to Return home, I am excited for the work ahead this week and getting ready for an exciting year of discoveries... I hold out my hands and my business to God each day and ask that He will lead me and guide me each step I take and every step that the Evolve Studio makes towards the future.

One thing that my journey through Tennessee has opened my eyes to is the word HOME and the fact that I long for Home or place to call Home. Being a follower of Christ, I realize that part of this longing is that I long for my Home with Christ. That is comforting that God is giving me this longing...

In visiting so many different kinds of homes these past two weeks, I realized that I have neglected the one place of my own that should have never been neglected and that is my own home.

My spiritual dwelling place is with Christ, and my physical dwelling place I want to make into a more Homey and warm and inviting place to be. I want to go home to my house and love it, welcome being there, and Love to have others over.

On this trip, not only did I visit childhood friends throughout, but College friends and I was surprised with an opened invitation to visit the home where my own mother lived with my father when she was pregnant with me... I was brought home from the hospital in that house and lived there until I was four (After she passed away). The family that owned this house actually bought the house from my dad in 1975.

When I stepped into the home, it was though time had stood still for 33 years. The family that owned the home had hardly changed a thing and I stood in awe as I validated all the memories that I had had during those times. The furniture, the wood paneling, the house, clearly 70's. Nothing had changed.

The point is, if you waist time and say I will do it later, it won't get done. 33 years could go past and your house will look like it did when you bought it if there was no focus or real efforts taken to make it a Home.

With me, I am guilty of wanting something, but being to busy to focus on such things.

So this month and this year for me is going to be a journey in not only discovering what makes your homes homey, but what will it take to make my home Homey and a sought after dwelling place of comfort and warmth.

Some of my discoveries I have made so far are:

1. Staying organized.

2. Good and real ARt by local artists and old drawings framed, small sculptures and Plants

3. Lots of Great Pictures of your Children and family with Good creative beautiful frames, Lots of Artsy Black and White images of capturing the moment and relationships that you have! Pictures on the Fridge, Pictures in digital picture frames... Pictures, Pictures, Pictures if they are displayed right with balance and care, can make the biggest difference

4. warm Paint colors with equilibrium with matching fabrics with bold and different appeal.

5. soft fabrics to sit on with comfy throw blankets for warmth and curtains made for your room.

6. space layout to maximize space

7. updated bathrooms with fully stocked for guests

8. Good scents, candles and such.

9. Mixed textures and natural elements... woods, rocks, plants, baskets, metal, mirrors, paper

10. mixed in with Lots of Grace and Love and Forgiveness and Laughter and good food and drinks.

2009-09-23T18:14:00.002-04:00

Newsletter update

Please take a look at the newsletter for an update of the schedule and the fun things that are in store for the fast paced months of October and November...

Autumn is in the air...

2009-09-13T00:08:00.004-04:00

This month has been a whirlwind as usual, and since Twit and FB keep me so busy updating in real time, blogging has fallen by the wayside!!!

Today was was SUCH a blessing!!! I got to photograph a dear child I have been photographing since her first day home from the hospital!!! What a treat to get to see her again so soon after her one year birthday!!! (and yes, if you are wondering, this is a mini!!!)

They are so beautiful to me!!! Such a blessing!!!

To catch all of you up to speed...

The Top Ten

1. I no longer work on Sundays to honor my relationship with God, and to take a day of rest... So I just work 14 hour days the rest of the week..!!

2. There are several Big Camera Mama Clicks in the works for the winter, and am hoping to fill the schedule with BCmama click classes from December-February. Seems like a good time to sit inside and drink a cup of spice tea and teach all of you how to use your big cameras!!! Be on the lookout for a big Mama Click RETREAT, a five star experience, a girls dream get-a-way!!!

3. I want to have a contest... to give away something... just don't know the details yet, So when it happens, I need your help to get the word out!

4. I am currently planning on more Fundraisers in the future so keep your eyes wide open and your fingers close to the mouse, cause those sessions go so fast!!!

5. Headed on Tour, and look forward to photographing so many of you throughout Tennessee and a small portion of MS!!! Go Vols..!!!

6. McKenna is gearing up as the Evolve Team is getting healthier and stronger and we are prepping the website soon to add a gallery of her work. She is still young in the industry and is tight under my wing, but will be taking appointments for family and children and Teens.

7. I am going to be photographing families at the Beach near Wilmington NC next week Wed, Thurs, Friday, Saturday. This is the first time planning a Beach Session week... I have several spots opened... The Fee is the same as a Mini... hope to see you there!!

8. There are new prices for the Mini's $45.00 per person with a two person min.

9. Mini's will be ending for the year in November, And I haven't decided if they are going to continue next Spring yet.. I will keep you all posted!!!

10. I need to go to bed.. good night!!

Michigan Tour

2009-08-11T00:15:00.002-04:00

Memphis area mini tour... sign up today

2009-08-10T17:32:00.002-04:00

an engagement session to remember!

2009-08-10T11:44:00.004-04:00

a hot day, a cool mini session. You could be next!

2009-08-09T23:24:00.004-04:00

2009-08-04T21:59:00.005-04:00

I absolutely cannot believe I am already planning my trip around the US (well, sort of) to do mini sessions in Michigan, and Tennessee... Autumn is around the corner folks!!!

I am also completely amazed that I will get to see my brother for the first time in 4 years!!! Mind you... this is the only living relative I have besides my grandparents and aunts and such... so it is really a big deal!!! We do skype here and there... ladeedaydeedadeeda.. and the story and drama could fill this blog page full..!!!

For now, I am excited to say that there are many wonderful projects and goals that we are meeting here at Evolve, and you will be the first to find out all the juicy details!!!

The past two nights have been catch up for us here at the studio.. the (as though I have a huge staff filling in for me on these long nights of editing...

My husband lost his job in June and he is starting this fantabulous company and we are thrilled as can be!!!

My first skill in school was drawing and painting... when I won three Graphic design awards at UT Knoxville, (which I am sure the graphic design students all hated me cause I wasn't in that department..) I started to think... hmmmm maybe I should be a Graphic designer.. so I went on about my career as though that was what was suppose to happen, when all along, Photography was right there in front of me, pursued me and it swept me off my feet and we've lived happily ever after ever since. (If you are an artist or creative type, you will know what I am talking about!) So need-less-to-say, I have some graphic arts under my belt, business planning and image skills... so I have been moonlighting to help him get that business off the ground.

So if you haven't received your CD, it is on its way. After the first session tomorrow morn, it is in the mail!!!

So good night, or morning if you have already been asleep for four hours... sleep well!

2009-07-29T14:16:00.003-04:00

Monday August 3 at 6:00 pm
Wed-Saturday August 5-8 more times to be announced!