Paula Stiller Photography

{cousins}

2010-05-21T19:33:00.000-07:00

Loved meeting up with this family before I leave! Love you guys!

{baby toes}

2010-05-18T17:21:00.001-07:00

{baby toes}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

are my fave

{held}

2010-05-18T08:42:00.001-07:00

{held}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

This is what it is to be loved and to know
That the promise was when everything fell
We'd be held ~Natalie Grant

{monkey monday}

2010-05-17T08:13:00.001-07:00

{monkey monday}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

It's going to be a crazy week of packing and editing! Colorado, here we come!

{i heart faces: flowers and faces}

2010-05-16T23:12:00.001-07:00

{i heart faces: flowers and faces}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

I love the look she flashed after the flower tickled her nose when she was trying to smell it!

{my buddy}

2010-05-15T21:20:00.001-07:00

{my buddy}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

This is my little buddy from a session last night! We had so much fun hanging out and looking for birds. I just love his smile!

{bumble bee party}

2010-05-13T13:34:00.001-07:00

{bumble bee party}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

check out the whole party and her party etsy store on her blog! be prepared to be amazed!!!

http://atozebracelebrations.blogspot.com/2010/05/bumble-bee-party.html

{10 days new}

2010-05-12T14:56:00.001-07:00

{10 days new}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

Having a rough day and had to get me a little baby fix in to cheer me up! Mr.G did the trick! :)

{3 boys!}

2010-05-10T20:18:00.001-07:00

{brothers}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

welcome to the world mr.g! how fun it was to meet you this morning and hang out with your big brothers!

{happy mother's day!}

2010-05-09T17:03:00.001-07:00

{happy mother's day!}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

{tea party with mom}

2010-05-05T12:06:00.001-07:00

{tea party with mom}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

finding it hard to find words about this session!!! eeeee!!!

{soaring}

2010-05-03T21:55:00.001-07:00

{soaring}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

This is one of those pictures that just speaks for itself. So many more from this session I can't wait!

{i heart faces: smiles}

2010-04-26T17:11:00.001-07:00

{i heart faces: smiles}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

sweet family. sweet light. sweet flare. sweet smiles!

{the kiss}

2010-04-25T12:32:00.001-07:00

{the kiss}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

I absolutely loved this picture that my husband snagged. Way to go Scott! I just need to get the cds made and then I will get these in the mail tomorrow!

{buzzzzzz}

2010-04-20T15:34:00.000-07:00

Two years ago, I did this precious girl’s first birthday pictures. Little did I know that would lead to a dear friendship that would last and grow strong throughout the next two years! Happy Birthday H! I didn't think it was possible for you to more adorable but you did! Love you N! Enjoy the pictures!

{i heart faces: collage}

2010-04-20T08:10:00.000-07:00

I wanted to make a page using these pictures so this gave me an excuse to get this done. At the zoo, there was a huge wall covered in green vines. I loved it as there are not very many of those in Arizona or Kansas (come to think of it probably none in Kansas). I love these smiles!

*I got the frame from Michelle Underwood's Bright Smiles Collection.*

{always a pleasure}

2010-04-19T11:23:00.000-07:00

love this family!!!

just a little sneak for now! :)

{san diego: april 2010}

2010-04-18T22:16:00.000-07:00

Last week we had the privilege to visit San Diego. It was a jam-packed 3 days full of fun that I am sure the kids won't ever forget.

On Wednesday we went to Sea World. We were able to get $6 tickets through a homeschool group! I liked everything about this place but Scott and my favorite attractions were the Shamu show (which we visited twice), the Wild Arctic with the beluga whale, and the sea lion show. It was pretty interesting how they can train the sea lions to do so many fun tricks. The boys both said their favorite was the shark encounter where you ride a moving floor through a huge aquarium with sharks swimming all around you. Miss T liked the dolphins and the polar bear.

Wednesday night we decided to head to the beach for a picnic. They all three “fell into the ocean” as they called it. The sunset was so gorgeous!

Thursday we once again met up with a homeschool group to get $6 tickets to the San Diego Zoo. We spent the whole day here and still didn’t see everything. There was a Komodo Dragon, an insect section that you could see the inside of a beehive and ant hill, and a Burmese Python. J liked the tigers, S liked the petting zoo, and T liked the baby bunnies. We got to see some crocodile training and at another spot got to see them catch a large bird because the parents had just laid another egg. That was pretty intense. My favorite part was a trail that led right through the middle of the zoo. It was like walking through a jungle. So pretty! That night we visited a local hamburger shop called Hodad’s. The food was great and the atmosphere fun!

Friday morning we got to sleep in and relax a little bit. Then we headed to Point Loma to check out the lighthouse. We were told there were some tidepools so we hiked some cliffs for a while. It was exhilarating being so close the waves crashing the rocks. It was good to breathe in the ocean air. We later found out the tidepools were covered up. Then we went up to the lighthouse and explored. I already wrote a little about that. There was also a little information about San Diego during World War II. The boys enjoyed learning about that. They especially liked the missiles that were on display.

I know I don't do a lot of pictures of our family on my blog but I am going to try to do better for our friends and family. Enjoy the pics!

{point loma}

2010-04-17T23:29:00.001-07:00

{point loma}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

One of my favorite things in the world in lighthouses. When Scott and I retire, we are going to travel the coasts and visit all the lighthouses. While we were in San Diego this week, we visited Point Loma. It is so gorgeous right now! This lighthouse isn't in working order as they found it was too high on the hill for the ships to see so they made a newer one down lower. This one is mainly for tourists and has been redone to show how it was living there for the original lightkeeper. I think Scott's favorite part was the garden. The kid's favorite part was the spiral staircase. I loved it all!

{Daniel and Priscilla: Part 1}

2010-04-17T13:16:00.001-07:00

Honestly, weddings scare me. I love attending them and the whole concept (of course) but being asked to be a photographer at a wedding is a different story. It is hard! There is so much pressure and it really takes a lot of time after the wedding to get all the images to the customer. So for now I advertise that I do small intimate weddings - which is just what Daniel and Priscilla's wedding was.

I showed up at the apartment early to get some getting ready pictures. It was the most beautiful spring day. Priscilla was already glowing when I arrived. She has a ton of hair and it looked absolutely gorgeous!

Not long after I showed up, Daniel came to see his soon-to-be bride. What special moments! I love these times before a wedding when the couple gets some time together.

Then off to the church we went. The guys always seem to have it so easy.

Prisicilla's gown was breathtaking. I overheard so many people say how lovely she looked!

Priscilla had the sweetest bridesmaids. They were so helpful and cheerful even though there were some last minute situations. :)

I loved that this ceremony was showered in prayer. God was trulykept at the focus throughout the entire day.

More to come...

{beeeeautiful!}

2010-04-13T00:50:00.001-07:00

{beeeeautiful!}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

Every year, she gets a little cuter!

**Side note: I will be out of the office until next Monday, the 19th. I will not be responding to phone calls or e-mails during this time. Thanks everyone!**

{i heart faces: dessert}

2010-04-11T21:51:00.001-07:00

{i heart faces: dessert}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

Every summer from when I was about 10 years old to when I sent to college I went out and worked at a cookhouse at a feedyard with my favorite Sunday School teacher! We learned so much those summers. Not only about how to cook and clean but how to be a genuinely nice and Godly person. I am forever indebted to the late Melba Fairchild. I miss her so much. I do know that she is know in Heaven smiling and laughing at my attempts in the kitchen just as she did at the cookshack.

{this is a cherry cheesecake with a pretzel crust - one of my favorites! the recipe in on my flickr pic.}

{lovely kids}

2010-04-08T21:31:00.000-07:00

a couple more for mom...

I just loved this family!

{He is Risen}

2010-04-05T22:09:00.001-07:00

{He is Risen}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

Outside my window...night - I have all the windows open and am enjoying the cool fresh air

I am thinking... I love mondays!

I am thankful that... I got the taxes 99% done!

I am wearing...jeans, AZ Cardinals shirt, pink over jacket thing

I am remembering... me chasing the bunnies around the backyard today! I'm sure that was a funny sight!

I am going... to edit some more wedding pictures

I am currently reading... I Corinthians

I am hoping... to teach my kids something new tomorrow

On my mind... Scott finishing up his final for Finite Math

Noticing that... I am getting sleepy

Pondering these words... (from the Easter Cantata) "No power of hell, no scheme of man, can ever pluck me from His hand. Til he returns or calls me home, here in the power of Christ I stand

From the kitchen... fresh strawberry jam made by Mr.J himself

Around the house... yellow tulips from my hubster on my kitchen table! :)

One of my favorite things... the smell of vinegar when dying Easter eggs

From my picture journal...flowers from "nana's" front yard

{made me smile}

2010-04-02T10:12:00.001-07:00

{made me smile}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

Here is the adorable Mr.A again! I have never seen this little guy upset. I think I said it before but isn't his hair the best???

{snuggle bugs}

2010-03-31T21:51:00.001-07:00

{snuggle bugs}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

Still loving these girls!

{my peeps}

2010-03-29T23:28:00.001-07:00

{my peeps}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

**Here is a pictures of my "peeps" from last week. They are painting the paper mache eggs that we made. This is my favorite space in the house right now. So much happens in this little area! (as you can see!)**

We finished up our parenting class "Have a New Kid by Friday" last night. I am really sad it is over since we really grew close to the other parents who attended. We'll just have to do some stuff with them later!

Dr.Leman had some secrets that I wanted to share with everyone. I can't help but thank my parents because they did many of these themselves if not all of them! Thank you mom and dad!

1. Spend 1 on 1 time. Take them out alone for breakfast. My dad would take me out on a "date" after school to One Stop every once in a while. I loved that!

2. Tell them "I LOVE YOU" every day.

3. Never pay them for good grades.

4. Tell them you believe in them and expect the best.

5. Don't have any habits that won't carry through college (sleeping in your bed, etc.)

6. Be involved in church and have a close church family.

7. Always put your spouse first.

8. Eat dinner together!

9. Avoid the activity trap. Keep life simple.

10. Tell them your thoughts and beliefs and why you believe that way and let them sort it out on their own without pressure.

11. Pray with your kids and for your kids daily.

12. Have fun nights! We had "plate night" where you had to come up with something else to use for supper besides a plate.

13. Write notes and draw pictures for your kids regularly. Both my parents did this!

14. Have holiday traditions and other traditions around the year.

15. Tell them stories about when you were young...the times you got in trouble and the consequences. They will learn from that. (My mom told me about someone writing a bad word on her sidewalk and how she got in trouble. She also told me about lying to her mom and dad about getting the colored chicks at Easter....my favorite story from her ever! Now my kids get to hear it too!)

15. LOVE THEM AS THEY ARE!!!

16. Remember: We represent the AWESOME authority of the almighty God who created the whole universe and hung the sun and moon perfectly in the sky. Be imitators of Christ!

{i heart faces: dramatic b&w}

2010-03-28T20:48:00.001-07:00

{this little piggy}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

These 10 day old sisters naturally fell into this postion while they were sleeping. Feel free to add a caption then head on over to i heart faces and see some other dramatic black and white photographs!

{curly locks}

2010-03-27T21:10:00.001-07:00

{curly locks}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

I had to look at these before I took the night off. At 18 months, she was tough to catch but every minute was worth it!

{happy friday}

2010-03-26T10:15:00.001-07:00

{happy friday}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

10 random thoughts today...

1. Must be spring! My calendar is loaded up until May 18! Schedule before it gets too hot! I might be able to squeeze you in somewhere.

2. Soccer games start tomorrow! J is on the Dynamo team and S is on the Jayhawks. I am so proud of both of them!

3. We planted a garden. Scott is a really good "farmer". Who knew?

4. I steam cleaned all the carpets and upholstery in the house this week. If the kids got in my way, I might have tried to clean them as well.

5. Made a PEEPS bunting like this http://www.vanessachristenson.com/2010/03/guest-tutorial-blogger-dana-of-made.html. Mine are pink!

6. I started a twirl skirt for Miss T but am a little confused. Hopefully it turns out ok.

7. Made some paper mache eggs with the kids yesterday. We need to paint them today.

8. Getting excited for the Easter Cantata at church. The church is hanging 10,000 door hangers around the community this Saturday. It's going to be fun!

9. My march madness bracket is looking good! Go K-State! All the way, baby! :)

10. We are watching The Blind Side tonight with some friends. I hope I don't cry too much and make a fool of myself!

Have a great weekend everyone!

{miss c}

2010-03-26T09:50:00.001-07:00

{miss c}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

one year old!

{carousel}

2010-03-25T00:23:00.001-07:00

{carousel}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

Do you like this new photo layout? I am up way too late tonight testing it out. I took this picture last weekend and had to see how it turned out!

{i heart faces: angles}

2010-03-22T14:43:00.001-07:00

{i heart faces: angles}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

This is probably my favorite angle for children. I knew from the moment I took it that I would love this picture. Not just that it includes my most favorite color but for the fact that this girl is adorable and super sweet! She is also from Kansas, which is where I grew up! What a great sesssion!

{sing me a song}

2010-03-11T07:27:00.001-08:00

{sing me a song}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

I love how this family incorporates a guitar into each of their sessions! First was the engagement session and then the newborn...remember this picture? Now he is 6 months old and still loves the guitar!

{5 days old}

2010-03-08T19:20:00.001-08:00

{5 days old}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

notice how they make a perfect heart!

{from Saturday}

2010-03-08T07:59:00.000-08:00

I had a packed Saturday with 5 sessions. I traveled all over the city. All the babies are repeat customers so they already know how to work it for the camera. It also helped that the weather was perfect! Welcome Spring!!!

First stop was Mesa to visit the the sweet Miss H. Couldn't help not posting this picture of her gorgeous blue eyes!

Second, I drove up to North Phoenix to visit Miss C again. She's getting so big holding her head up! Love all that hair too!

Miss A was full of smiles when I met them down in Queen Creek. She got some Easter pictures too but I couldn't resist this precious smile and those flowers!

Next I got to see my only male customer of the day, Mr.C, down in Chandler. He had a tooth coming in on top and had a rough time at first but then gave me some of the sweetest smiles. Isn't he adorable?!?

Finally Miss Melissa. I was so excited for this session! She is going to be sending in these pictures with her application to the Bachelor. She was a complete blast to work with! Mr. Bachelor - pick Melissa!

*I am so thankful for all my customers! I loved spending time with each of you! I have been told it's not a good idea to become friends with your customers but I can't help myself. You are all truly my friends and I appreciate you so much!*

{plans}

2010-03-05T10:43:00.001-08:00

{plans}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

I hope this makes sense to everyone. We had a late night since we couldn't get into our neighborhood until after 11. There was a suspect loose with a gun and it was in lockdown. They did catch him and we are all fine today...just sleepy.

My favorite part of Sunday nights are turning out to be Pastor Jim's sermons on parenting. I took a ton of notes. He spoke on planning for your children and each child being different and needing unique plans. If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. I know a lot of parents do this naturally without a plan but I was happy to have it presented to me. Here are a list of questions to ask:

1. What is the goal for each child?
2. What skills and abilities should they possess when they enter school, middle school, high school?
3. How do you want your children to relate to authority, peers, and opposite sex?

And here was the list presented to us on some ideas that would answer the previous questions.

1. commited - to finish what they start
2. content
3. courageous
4. humble - cannot be taught, must be shown
5. respect for authority
6. gratitude
7. excellence
8. work ethic
9. kind
10. generous
11. positive attitude
12. purity
13. Godly - that the world would see the love of God through them
14. joy - not happiness but the true joy that comes only from the Lord - John 10:10

A couple other quick notes I took:

*Let your children see you reading your Bible daily.
*Let your children hear you praying for them (whether at meals, bedtime, or throughout the day.) They need to hear that you care and God cares.

{full}

2010-03-04T07:37:00.001-08:00

{full}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

After reading Justin Lyon's post this morning from his trip to Haiti, my heart feels so blessed. Blessed to be mom especially and to do the best job I know to do today.

Continuing from my other post about parenting. There are several things that your kids know that you need to be aware of.

*Realize that your kids want to please you.
*Make sure your kids feel like they hold a respected place in the home.
*Tune in to their priorities - what's most important to them.
*Know their peers. You cannot afford to be passive and uninformed here.
*Consider the pressures that are pulling at your kids and offer to help.
*Figure out what your child is passionate about and encourage it.
*Finally, look for potential - that vein of gold you can see peeking though their abilities.

I spent some time, just me and the kids, at the zoo on Tuesday. I really treasure these times. We talked about so many different things. I think it's so fun to talk about what they want to be when they grow up. Mr.J wants to be a doctor but is leaning toward a vet right now. Mr.S wants to be an army man so he can protect me (sigh) and a farmer. Ms.T, of course, wants to be Strawberry Shortcake. We'll see about that one!

{iheartfaces: outtakes}

2010-03-01T21:38:00.001-08:00

1korfouttakes, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

This is my crazy family at Christmas. I have representing us from top to bottom: the Korfs (my parents), the Heims (who knew?), the Vanhorns (what is going on?), Mr. Luce (always helping the needy), and Miss P in the bottom. The bottom one is my favorite since it is an outtake of an outtake. You go girl!

{your uniqueness is beautiful}

2010-03-01T19:34:00.001-08:00

{your uniqueness is beautiful}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

I wanted to share a little bit about what I learned at parenting class this week. There was absolutely so much information that it is hard to sum it up so I may have to break it up a little. First, we watched the video of Day 2 of Have a New Kid By Friday by Dr. Leman . He made 8 main points of what your your kids need NOW from you as a parent.

1. safety and security
2. a mom and dad who respect each other and make it obvious to their kids - make sure they see and hear your "closeness"
3. personal attention
4. discipline - there is a difference in punishment and discipline
5. an example in attitude and behavior - manners, courtesy, respect
6. plans - structure - Kids learn best when things are organized!
7. patience - chill out!
8. spiritual direction

I also wanted to share another photographer's blog called Inspirations. She is praying specific prayers for her children and adding her beautiful photography.

{peach trees}

2010-03-01T11:23:00.001-08:00

{peach trees}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

Here's a picture up from Schnepf Farms. We hope to go back and pick peaches in a couple months. Notice how Miss T is standing...such a little model. I have to let everyone know that I did do a 'head swap' from another photo. I usually have to do this with my own kid's pictures since it's so hard to get three to take a good picture at the same moment. Can you tell which kid I swapped? :)

Happy March!

{mr.p ~ 6 mths}

2010-02-28T15:07:00.001-08:00

{mr.p ~ 6 mths}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

I met with this lovely family again for this little guy's 6 month photos. He had so many sweet smiles for me. I love his little dimple too!

{xoxo}

2010-02-22T21:54:00.001-08:00

{xoxo}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

I was getting some pictures of the roses Scott got me. I am so glad they have lasted so long.

We have had so much going on I don’t even know where to start so I’ll do a ten on Monday and see where that goes.

1. The kids raced their cars in the AWANA Grand Prix last Saturday. They all did really well and we added a couple more trophies to our little collection. J had a piranha, S had a crocodile, and T had a strawberry car (of course). They are already thinking of what they want next year.
2. Scott and I are in the choir again for the Easter Cantata. The music is beautiful. Scott has a solo and he sounds so good. I am so proud of him. He has been working very hard.
3. The kids and I visited Schnepf farms last week with our friends to see the peach trees in blossom. I got some pictures of the kids that I will have to put up. We had a really good time catching up and watching the kids play. She recently moved out of town and it’s always fun to get together.
4. I sold my first flower on ETSY and got a couple orders that I need to fill. So fun!
5. We are taking a parenting course at church. It is called “Have a New Kid by Friday”. I know I have been a little lax in my discipline, especially with immediate obedience so I am trying to be more consistent in that. I look forward to learning a lot.
6. I went to a meeting tonight about a new charter school that is coming to town. They are going to be working together with a local church and it sounds like a good decision. We will be praying about this and ask for your pray as well. It is so hard to know what to do.
7. My husband is doing amazing at school. He started JAVA script this week and that is giving him a little more challenge but I’m sure once he gets it he will nail it like everything else.
8. I am starting Flylady once again. She visits every once in a while when I need a little kick in the pants with housework and routines.
9. We are obsessed with the Olympics around here. The boys loved watching Shaun White. That has probably been the highlight for them. They watched the video online over and over.
10. Miss T has been carrying around her baby doll “Ashley” for about a week now. She is the mom, dad is the grandpa, J and S are the uncles, and I am the grandma. She does such a good job of feeding, changing, and cleaning baby. She even sets up little photo shoots with props and blankets. It is so fun to watch. I loved my doll “Willow” when I was little.

Have a good week everyone!

{i heart faces: i wanna dance!}

2010-02-16T20:13:00.001-08:00

{i wanna dance}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

I went back into my orchard sessions to find this little sweetie showing her moves. I love that her face is so determined. The next picture was a huge smile!!!

I am so sad. I missed the deadline to enter by 16 minutes. I was thinking I had until midnight. Now I know for next time. I still love this picture! Shake it Miss C!

{OPEN FOR BUSINESS!}

2010-02-15T21:41:00.001-08:00

{postscript hairpiece}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/postscripts

{from my valentine}

2010-02-14T17:16:00.001-08:00

{from my valentine}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

Happy Valentine's Day Everyone!

Outside my window... gorgeousness!

I am thinking... when I am done I am going outside with my family

I am thankful for... new friends that are an answer to prayer

I am wearing... jeans, white t-shirt with green tank top and a flower broach and flower in my hair (i made some more flowers today)

I am remembering... I got hit with a bicycle yesterday that my 5yo was riding full speed. my head still hurts. may need to go to the chiro this week.

I am going... to get my menus done and go grocery shopping later

I am currently reading...Crazy Love (I hope to someday finish. this might stay here a while)

I am hoping... to go to Hobby Lobby tomorrow

On my mind... Pastor Jim's excellent sermon - how God created the world to float in the perfect spot

Noticing that... it is really quiet in here

Pondering these words... LOVE

From the kitchen... leftover baked ziti and sweet orange rolls

Around the house... a mess from a crazy weekend

One of my favorite things... a chunk of chocolate with a fresh raspberry on top from the Renaissance Festival! I told my friends about these and they surprised me and brought me some last night. The best thing I have ever tasted in m y life!!! There was even a surprise raspberry in the middle!

{i heart cookies}

2010-02-12T16:23:00.001-08:00

{i heart cookies}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

{my daybook}

2010-02-12T16:06:00.000-08:00

My sister Melissa started a crafting blog yesterday! If you love crafty stuff make sure you follow her here. I also love the daybook that she uses to blog. It makes blogging so much simple, which I am all about simple!!!

Outside my window... lovely Arizona February weather - about perfect!

I am thinking...I need to find out when the Spaghetti Dinner is tonight at church.

I am thankful for... a dozen roses on my table (yes, I cried - I am such a sap!)

I am wearing...purple button up shirt and jeans

I am remembering...Scott and I started officially dating on Valentine's 9 years ago!

I am going... to be with my friends at church tonight!

I am currently reading...Crazy Love

I am hoping... tomorrow at the AWANA Grand Prix goes well

On my mind.. a busy weekend - oh yeah, I get to watch Time Traveler's Wife tonight with my hubby!

Noticing that...I've got a hyped up on sugar 3yo on my lap

Pondering these words... Mr.J asked me what the meaning of meaning is.

From the kitchen... valentine sugar cookies

Around the house... mario brothers on wii

One of my favorite things... roses and chocolate (i picked two today!)

{love is in the house}

2010-02-09T22:32:00.001-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day! I love all my customers! Thank you for being the best!

{we heart kisses}

2010-02-09T15:37:00.001-08:00

or not...

{we heart kisses}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

{mr.a ~ 6 months}

2010-02-08T10:18:00.001-08:00

{develop: unexpected light}

2010-02-08T09:57:00.001-08:00

{develop: unexpected light}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

We had an excellent weekend just being a family. Every Friday night is our family night. We were going to go to the Drive In Theatre to watch the Chipmunk movie but it didn't start until 9:30! Instead we went and ate at our favorite pizza place - Pizza Hut! I know, we are so boring! Then we went and got drumsticks from the store to eat at home. While the kids were eating drumsticks, they were also watching daddy play scrabble. I had to seize the moment and take a picture for the unexpected light lesson this week.

We spent the morning Saturday getting the kids' cars ready for the AWANA Grand Prix next weekend and the rest of the day relaxing. (I did have a 1 year session that was so fun I hate to call it work!)

Sunday, we enjoyed an excellent Sunday School lesson and sermon. We are really blessed to be members of an unashamed Bible believing church - First Baptist Church of Maricopa.

As with the rest of the world, we watched the Super Bowl in the afternoon. Several of our friends from church came over and we ate too much and laughed a lot! I even won the guessing game by choosing the Saints over the Colts 28-21!

{discovery}

2010-02-03T23:45:00.001-08:00

{discovery}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

We have decided to have a garden this year so have been working in the back yard this week. I was more than pleased when Mr.J brought in his discovery of a heart-shaped rock to show me. He immediately put it with his rock collection.

{can't get enough of her}

2010-02-03T21:18:00.001-08:00

Sweet Miss E just turned 6 months old! Isn't she soooo precious?!?

{the ladies love me}

2010-02-01T22:34:00.001-08:00

I remember taking this little guy's newborn pictures what seems like yesterday. I could not get enough of his sweet smile and flirty eye batting. The ladies do love you, Mr.C!!! Happy first birthday!

{sisters}

2010-01-29T13:45:00.001-08:00

{girlfriends}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

Love doesn’t make the world go round, love is what makes the ride worthwhile.

Elizabeth Browning

{how I lost it}

2010-01-28T12:27:00.000-08:00

A lot of you have asked how I lost my weight last summer so this is it. Definitely not easy or luxurious but it worked for the reason I was doing it. I ended up losing 40 pounds in 4 months. I am not on it anymore but really watch what I eat - including sugar, carbs, and pop!

(Disclaimer: I am not a doctor nor do I claim to be of any medical profession. This is all based on my personal experience without any research or scientific proof to back up my results otherwise. I have heard that this diet is not good for long amounts of time so please be responsible. Really, I can’t explain why I did it the way I did do not expect me to answer any questions.)

First of all, I want to tell you that I was honestly not trying to lose weight. I was having some headaches and other symptoms that were preventing me from doing my daily activities and I knew that I had to change something. After doing some research on the internet and basing my symptoms on other people’s symptoms, I decided to treat myself for candida (a yeast in the body).

The most influential website that I found was http://www.healingnaturallybybee.com/. I would encourage you to read the whole website before started. There are a lot of tips and suggestions that come in really handy. She includes symptoms, food lists, and recipes. There are also some die-off effects that you need to be aware of.

This is my basic plan:

Food: meats and vegetables – no sugar or processed food – no corn or potatoes (starches) – very little carbs – no fruit – no dairy

Breakfast: 1 or 2 eggs

I learned to get really creative with how to eat an egg – over easy, omelet, sunny side up, with pico de gallo or homemade salsa (yum!), hard-boiled, poached, scrambled, etc.

Lunch: soup and salad

Pea soup, lentil soup, and chili were the main soups I got from the ordinary grocery store. I tried to stay away from anything more that 5 grams of sugar/serving.

Trader Joe’s has the greatest natural soup with very low sugar – tomato and black bean were my favorite

Low-fat refried beans and tuna were staples

Salad - usually with a bean or meat on top – no cheese or croutons – extra virgin olive oil and lemon juice for dressing

Salad wrap – meat, beans, or tuna with cooked or sautéed veggies

Eating out: salads were the easiest for obvious reasons but they usually had to be special ordered as well. Fast food – hamburger or chicken sandwich with extra veggies (I did not eat the bun)

Snack: snack peas – available only at Basha’s and Whole Foods. I ate so many boxes of these and love them. Whenever I am at Basha’s I still pick up a couple containers to snack on. I added these to my salads as well.

Pork rinds – did not like at all before this. I ate these with homemade guacamole and salsa!

Dinner: Pretty much was a big portion of meat (chicken, steak, fish, pork, turkey, hamburger) - usually whatever I cooked for the family without adding everything and adding it to salad. I tried to make things from the website that my kid’s would eat also.

What I did for a sweet tooth and other cravings – great article here: http://www.healingnaturallybybee.com/articles/help5.php

Bee’s Electrolyte Drink - nasty at first but I learned to love it and crave it.

Chocolate – Trader Joe’s has an excellent low-carb chocolate in milk chocolate or dark – helped me sooo much!

Coconut oil – eat a tablespoon whenever craving something sweet

Magnesium – for chocolate cravings

Drink – water and tea, I almost always added lemon juice

Supplements: I could not afford a lot of supplements but I do feel that the VIBE supplement drink I got toward the end helped me a lot. I still take this.

I took a multi, probiotic, and vitamin c throughout the whole process.

Exercise: I did mild exercise on the wii using wii fit usually 2-3 times a week. We also went swimming 2-3 times a week during the summer. We usually take walks to the park or around the block once or twice a week as well.

{i heart faces: texture}

2010-01-26T19:02:00.000-08:00

A special picture from a couple months ago. I used 3 different textures. I {heart} these moments and want to do a better job capturing them this year. This picture seems to represent how fast time is going by. It screams, "Catch me while you can!" I don't want to miss a moment.

*Don't forget about Jonah's Bike for Haiti blogged yesterday. He is almost to his goal and so excited! Thank you all for donating already!*

{biking for haiti}

2010-01-25T17:54:00.000-08:00

{UPDATE: Jonah got his goal and rode for 30 minutes! I am so proud of him!}

Hi!

My name is Jonah. I am 7 years old. Our AWANA Sparkies group is taking a love offering on Wednesday to send to Haiti and I would like to help. I know some people died and some people have injuries. They are in need of food and water.

I just learned how to ride my bike and this is my favorite thing to do! This Wednesday, January 27th, I will be riding my bike for 30 minutes. I would like to raise $1 for every minute for a total of $30.

The link to donate is on the right side. It is a secure Paypal link.

Thank you for your support!

Love, Jonah

{develop: voice}

2010-01-24T22:00:00.000-08:00

I joined a group of photographers as a way to develop my skills in photography. The group just happens to be named "Develop On Fridays" and is led by photographer Jefra and sponsored by Paislee Press. Every Friday we get another challenge for the week. This week the assignment is to take 75 pictures of one object and then choose your top 5. So excited to be a part of this with some of my favorite photographers. Here are my top 5 from the week.

{another day in the life}

2010-01-21T15:27:00.000-08:00

Remember, you're the one

Who can fill the world with sunshine

{i heart faces: we are family}

2010-01-19T14:14:00.000-08:00

{please be patient as my blog is under construction. thank you!}

There is a brief second that everyone forgets there is a photographer there and just enjoys the moment and what it means. This was one of those seconds. We are family.

{celebrating adoption}

2010-01-19T11:57:00.001-08:00

{celebrating adoption}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

Just a reminder that I am a member of Celebrating Adoption, a group a photographers who volunteer their time and talent to do a complimentary session for adopting families. If you know someone who has adopted within the last year, please let them know. I love working with these families! The website is celebratingadoption.org.

It was an honor to have 2 Celebrationing Adoption sessions in December! This is one of my favorites from one of them.

{tea party slideshow}

2010-01-18T19:38:00.001-08:00

{stopping by woods}

2010-01-16T10:50:00.001-08:00

{stopping by woods}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

*Scott and I made a special trip up into the mountains the day before we left Colorado. It was so peaceful up there. Scott spotted a little group of aspen up the hill. I stomped through the knee-deep snow to get some pictures. I could have stayed there a lot longer. I love this poem by Robert Frost.*

Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening

Whose woods these are I think I know.
His house is in the village though;
He will not see me stopping here
To watch his woods fill up with snow.

My little horse must think it queer
To stop without a farmhouse near
Between the woods and frozen lake
The darkest evening of the year.

He gives his harness bells a shake
To ask if there is some mistake.
The only other sound’s the sweep
Of easy wind and downy flake.

The woods are lovely, dark and deep.
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep.

~a fun survey~

2010-01-15T22:47:00.000-08:00

Copy if you do it and leave a comment. I would love to read your answers! Some of the numbers are missing because I thought the questions were silly.

1. what is your current obsession?
crocheting and crafting - probably because this is the last thing on my to-do list right now

2. what are you wearing today?
gray long-sleeved t-shirt and jeans (so boring)

3. what’s for dinner?
pizza (friday night family night!)

4. what’s the last thing you bought?
portable steam cleaner - another obsession - love it!

5. what are you listening to right now?
the kids playing with legos

6. if you could have a house totally paid for, fully furnished anywhere in the world, where would you like it to be?
colorado

7. one thing you wanna change about yourself?
be. more. organized.

8. if you could go anywhere in the world for the next hour, where would you go?
new zealand perhaps

9. which language do you want to learn?
spanish

10. what’s your favorite quote?
i don't have a favorite. lots of random ones.

11 . would you cook for me?
definately. i love to cook and have people over!

12. what are you afraid of the most?
losing someone close

15. who do you want to meet right now?
it'd be nice to meet my friends :)

16. what is your favorite color?
yellow

18. what is your dream job?
i am living it!

19. what are your favorite magazines?
anthropologie and pottery barn.

20. if you had $100 now, what would you spend it on?
crafting stuff

23. what brings a smile on your face instantly?
my kids

24. a word that you say a lot?

what's happening? (2 words)

25. what kind of haircut do you prefer?
simple

26. what are you going to do after this?
probably go clean with my steam cleaner

27. what do you do when you are feeling low or terribly depressed?
look at blogs, flickr, or etsy

28. what makes you go wild?
i'm not very wild

29. what are your favorite movies?
a river runs through it and hoosiers

30. what inspires you?
my sisters and parents

31. what do your friends call you most commonly?
paula

32. would you prefer coffee or tea?
tea

34. favorite dessert/sweet?
today i want cheesecake

35. how many tabs are turned on in your browser right now?
only two at the moment

36. when you looked at yourself in the mirror today, what was the first thing you thought?
gotta do something with that hair

37. favorite season?
autumn

38. one wish that you really want to see it come true?

to see my children walk in the Lord and follow Him

39. what breaks your heart?
orphans

40. what's one thing you really want to do in life?
open an etsy store

adopt

{ tea party}

2010-01-15T09:31:00.001-08:00

{a tea party}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

I can't believe January is already half over. I have a big post to blog but need to finish it. This pictures if from my first session of the year! I think it's going to be a good year! ;)

~how i saved tobymac~

2009-12-21T16:06:00.000-08:00

This story starts back in the days of middle school when I first became a big fan of DC Talk. I would "borrow" my sister's cd player and DC Talk cd so that my friends and I could listen on the bus. I'm sure I would always get in trouble.

Now, over 10 years later, TobyMac has separated from DC Talk and I am still a huge fan! I have all of his songs in my favorites folder and listen to them almost everyday on Air1 radio. When I heard he was coming to town and we could get tickets for $10 and a toy, I told Scott we were definately going.

I didn't have high expectations since the tickets were so cheap. We really didn't even know if we would get a seat or thought we would be way up at the top. We got there and they said the people with toys can pay and walk right in. We were an hour early so we sat down low to the left of the stage up four rows. We sat through a couple of the opening singers and I was thinking how amazing these seats were, when a big family came and took our seats (since they had tickets.) I spotted 2 seats in front of us in the front rows on the side so we moved to them. We weren't on the floor but this was still pretty cool. There was a narrow wall separating us from the floor which was about six feet up.

We were jamming out and enjoying ourselves when all the sudden TobyMac disappeared. All the sudden, the boy next to us spilled his drink on the floor in front of us and I was sort of paying more attention to that than anything. Then Toby, giving high fives, was coming straight toward us and the spill! His bodyguards protected him from the spill and prevented him from shaking my hand! Ahhh! I was mortified.

Then Scott said, "Look!" (He must have known how disappointed I was feeling.) Toby was now on the narrow wall in front of us to the right singing and walking my way!!! I held out my hand to shake his and he started to fall. I quickly grabbed his hand and pulled him back up until he got his balance. He just continued to sing and walk across the wall. He also had to use Scott's shoulder once to steady himself. He walked by us on down the wall and then he turned and came back! He stood in front of us and sang the whole opening to Burn for You. Scott and I were in the spotlight with him the entire time! Then he went down to the floor and did some crazy crowd surfing!

We were riding the lightrail back to our van and some people said that they recognized me from my shirt on the bigscreen!

I hope to find some pictures someday. It was such a fun evening that I won't forget ever! If you ever get a chance to go see TobyMac - do it! His love for the Lord is evident. I just kept thinking, "Please don't tell me that Christians don't know how to have FUN!!!" They were rocking!

*I did not take this picture - this is from his profile pic on his facebook

{so sleepy}

2009-12-14T23:08:00.001-08:00

{so sleepy}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

I met the sweet Miss K last week. Her arrival didn't go as planned but she is here and healthy and gorgeous!!!

*customers* - I had a setback today with a computer malfunction but am catching up again tonight. Please call me if you have any questions.

{update}

2009-12-11T17:31:00.000-08:00

Happy Friday! I had a super Friday with editing and deliveries! I am going to try to get everybody's session (except from this weekend) edited and ready to mail/deliver by Monday! Let me know if you need cards. The orchard sessions come with 25 free custom cards. Otherwise, they are $1.5o each. Thank you all for your love and patience during this busy time! I am so blessed to have the best customers in the whole world!!!

This little sweetheart didn't like getting her picture taken last year. Can you imagine that? Now she poses and smiles before I even tell her what to do! *love it!*

{gingerbread 2009}

2009-12-10T21:52:00.000-08:00

I am now taking a break from editing to catch you up on our family life. Here are my 10 on Thursday:

1. We are in a little break from school. Even though I work it in where I can, there is no formal lesson plans for the rest of December. (yay!)

2. I ended up doing 13 sessions over the weekend and I survived! SO MUCH FUN! Every family is so different and just a pleasure to hang out with and make memories!

3. Saturday night I went to an ornament exchange at my friend Nancy's home. It was fun to be with the girls and to get a night out after working all day. I got 3 cute little frame ornaments (sorry Noelle...teehee!).

4. Pastor Jim has been preaching some great sermons lately. If you are looking for a church in Maricopa, don't hesitate to check out the First Baptist Church of Maricopa. The AWANA program rocks and they have excellent Sunday School and Children's Church among a lot of other programs...

5. Speaking of... Scott and I are singing the choir on this Sunday evening. Everyone is invited! It is going to be an excellent night of worship that focuses on THE TRUE REASON OF THE SEASON. The soloists are excellent and the music is beautiful! We start at 6PM.

6. {ABOVE} This year for our annual gingerbread house we made 5 mini houses. Only 3 are pictured because Scott hasn't finished his yet and his was with T's. I added the top right one because Si-Guy(4) and I were working together and he made a little pathway with gumdrops to my house! It was so cute how he told me so we can visit each other all the time!

7. I almost swallowed a fly that was in my hot chocolate right now. I spewed it across the room. THAT was pretty nasty! :P

8. Etsy is the most dangerous place for me to go right now. I have two things I want to try now when I get everyones' sessions done. Oh, the motivation is there!

9. On Sunday night, I got in front of the camera - pics to come soon!!! A photographer came from Gilbert and we did a family photo swap. It worked out so well!!!

10. I (personally) am SOOOO not ready for Christmas. We have a big gift for each of the boys and I've gotten some little things for Scott but this is going to be last minute shopping this year. Nothing like a little CRUNCH TIME!

{cutie pie}

2009-12-10T16:33:00.001-08:00

{cutie pie}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

I just had to throw this one on the blog! Sometimes I put pictures on flickr that I don't share on my blog. Feel free to browse my photostream over there anytime! The link is above - PS on Flickr.

{Miss Claire}

2009-12-08T13:08:00.001-08:00

This is one of my favorite newborn sessions to date! {Although I do LOVE them all!} Miss Claire was so sweet and super sleepy.

{I heart faces : sweet dreams}

2009-12-07T22:27:00.000-08:00

After an emotional day, sweet dreams sound really nice. Love this little girl from last week. She slept nearly the whole session!

~eileen's legacy~

2009-12-07T06:09:00.000-08:00

I learned some news this morning. Some of you may not know that I was a Mary Kay consultant for several years while we lived in Kansas City. I joined Mary Kay because of the positive atmosphere, wealth of knowledge, and to hang out with amazing Christian woman like the woman I am going to write about - Eileen Huffman.

We met when our tummies were as big as basketballs - her pregnant with her 3rd and me with my 1st. We both ended up having our sons on the same day - September 28, 2002! I used to call her Mary Kay 'hotline' for daily inspiration and updates. It was always so good to hear an enthusiastic voice. Even when I was having a bad moment and didn't want to bother anyone, I could call and not even listen but felt that things were alright and get a little chuckle.

My life quickly changed with a move to Phoenix in 2006 and I didn't sell Mary Kay anymore and lost contact with all my Mary Kay friends. Last week, I decided to look for some of them on facebook. This morning I got the e-mail saying that my recruitor (and also dear friend - Janine) accepted me as a friend. It is so good to reconnect! She wrote a note that told me that Eileen had passed on. Obviously I was shocked. I quickly did some searching and found Eileen's journal about her fight with cancer and have been reading it all morning. What an impactful life this lady led!!! Her legacy will continue. I highlighted some of my favorite quotes from her journal. These are more for me than for you but feel free to be blessed. Her journal is here. I will put them in PINK because everything in Mary Kay must be PINK!

My prayer is that through my story, somehow, someway, you will be inspired to EMBRACE each moment of LIFE and LIVE the LIFE God has destined for YOU!! Have a blessed DAY, I am planning too!!

So I begin this FALL, crisp sunny day with yet another opportunity to take my kids to school, listen to the two younger ones fight, the dog whining to be walked, dirty laundry, dishes in the sink and of course, bills to be paid and I couldn't SCREAM loud enough to tell you the JOY I feel in ALL of that! Isn't NORMAL just awesome?

Each morning I awake I praise GOD for His healing power and knowing His love will be the SAME yesterday, today and TOMORROW. I find much security in THAT alone! There are those moments when I still cannot belief this is my life journey and the load seems heavy but that's when I realize I've taken my eyes off my Heavenly Father.

I have this feeling that everything about today will be sweeter...the air will feel crisper, the sky will be bluer, the sun will shine brighter, the kiddos will be cuter, the friendships will be richer and Christ will be nearer. It is one of the gifts a journey like this gives you. AS I read your journal entries back to me I will pray for each of you that you too will feel the Lord's presence in your life.

I TRULLLLYYYY believe that God expects our OBEDIENCE first and then shows us the next step.

May you and your loved ones CHOOSE an attitude of gratitude EVEN if the day is not packaged the way you wanted it to be.

Today was the last day of school for the kiddos and I've decided that this summer will be FABULOUS....why? Because I, along with my kids will learn even MORE how to rely on God's grace, God's love, God's patience and one another to continue to grow together as a family. Is there anything better?

Thank you, Eileen, for you enthusiasm and example!

{the angel family}

2009-12-03T16:08:00.001-08:00

loved spending time with this sweet family! hopefully will see them again real soon! :)

{i heart faces: tooshie edition}

2009-12-01T18:14:00.000-08:00

This is my entry for this week. Now I am addicted to I Heart Faces. I didn't really need another blog to look at but it is so much fun! This is for anybody so let me know if you ever enter! I want to see your pics too!

{surprise!}

2009-11-30T10:15:00.000-08:00

I rarely enter contests and I rarely win, so you can imagine my surprise when I checked iheartfaces.com last night to find I got 7th place out of 421 entries. Thank you all for the sweet compliments and thank you to [b]ecker for being the guest judge!

FYI - Anybody can enter these contests. Check out iheartfaces.com for more information. This week the contest is "We love tooshies."

And here is a picture of another new little beauty from last week. She was only five days old and slept most of the time!

{meet miss clara}

2009-11-30T10:11:00.001-08:00

I am starting to travel more around the Phoenix area for newborn sessions! It was such a pleasure to meet Miss C and get to know her dear family!

{the cajthaml family is back!}

2009-11-30T08:14:00.001-08:00

{little drop of sunshine}

2009-11-24T12:53:00.001-08:00

{little drop of sunshine}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

I took this a couple weeks ago out in a cotton field. I wish I could spend more evenings like this.

{Ten on Thursday}

2009-11-12T13:26:00.000-08:00

Lots of random stuff happening here so I decided to do a random 10. I used to do these on Monday but today seemed appropriate enough and I will probably be too busy to do much personal blogging for the next month or so but you may be surprised!

1. I went on a date Tuesday with my husband! We went to see Building 429 and Todd Agnew. I am stealing this picture from my friend since I didn't take my camera. (yeah, i know, bad photographer!) I also have a silly sweater on. It was the only one in the van and I knew I would get cold. Thanks for the invite, N! It was a lot of fun!

2. Also check her blog for the pictures I took at her daughter's amazing zebra party! She has already been asked to be featured on quite a few party blogs. http://togetherisourfavoriteplacetobe.blogspot.com/

3. I spent the whole morning in my pjs crafting! I got inspired this morning by http://alittlehut.blogspot.com/ and made these bookmarks. Want one? Let me know which one is your favorite!

4.. I also got some cds wrapped for customers. I am loving red ric-rac!

5. Simon asked me this morning if today is the day we are going to Colorado. They are so excited to see family! I can't say I am much different.

6. While I was crafting, the kids were playing Star Wars Risk. They make up their own rules. At one point, T said, "My so tired," and left it to the boys. I love how she exchanges my for I right now.

6. We saw the first Christmas decorations in our neighborhood last night. Really? Yes!

7. I took some coupons with me to the store last night. Nothing too complicated - I just printed out stuff that would be free or cheap. I found two really good blogs yesterday...

http://www.moneysavingmoms.com/

http://www.mojosavings.com/

8. I am trying out a new organizing/cleaning program. I just need to go print it out! I am excited that she includes the Bible reading for the day!

http://www.motivatedmoms.com/

9. Scott is doing excellent in school. Some of you may not know that he is going for his Bachelor's in Software Engineering. I am so proud of him. He is working so hard.

10. I think my madness starts tomorrow with a newborn session and then on Saturday I am totally booked with 6 orchard sessions! Thank you so much to my amazing customers! YOU ROCK!!!

*I have two orchard session openings for Saturday the 21st @ 8:30AM & 4PM!*

{naming plant parts 09}

2009-11-06T16:15:00.001-08:00

Some people may not know that we homeschool our children. This is a pretty normal picture of us during the day. We just happened to be studying plants at this time. Yesterday we went out and got some flowers and leaves and studied the different parts. We also put some celery with the leaves still on in some food coloring and woke up with blue-leaved celery.

Love that shirtless S is watching J and eating a PB&J. Yep, that's totally normal here!

{state fair 2009}

2009-11-03T20:23:00.001-08:00

I woke up to my middle guy asking me "Is today tomorrow?!?" He knew we were going to the fair 'tomorrow'! The kids, especially J, worked really hard on reading their books to get some free rides and then we were off to the Arizona State Fair. It turned out to be 96* today. Today is November 3rd! Where did that heat come from? We had a great time anyway.

The kids on the roller coaster...

Favorite Parts of the Day

Scott - funnel cake topped with powered sugar, strawberries, and whipped cream

J- the giant slide

S- the merry-go-round

T- the pirate ship kiddie ride

me - I loved the moment we were all on the ferris wheel together. The kids were wide-eyed and trusting. At this moment, we were at the very top, and Scott leaned over and gave me a little kiss. That was my favorite part of the day.

{remembering halloween 2009}

2009-11-01T19:41:00.000-08:00

I am going to add a new section to my blog featuring different pictures with days and times of my family. It will feature one picture and I will put little memories underneath. Hopefully I will keep this up and make a book out of it for the kids eventually.

Today's picture just happens to be about Halloween:

totally blurry - totally my kids walking in to the church festival!

First of all, the kids have had their costumes picked out for a long time - probably back to the beginning of summer.

J - invented the flap on his ghost costume. I had no idea what he was meaning until he showed me with the scissors.

S - found his policeman hat at a Goodwill a couple months ago. The FBI badge was made by J and he has his daddy's flashlight on his belt.

T - was soooo excited to Strawberry Shortcake! (her favorite in the world right now!) I went all through the drama of going to make her outfit until my bright husband told me to look for a red/white striped shirt which I bought at Walmart for $8! Score! Her hat was from the dollar store and spraypainted pink with a striped ribbon and strawberry button.

We played at the festival at church all night winning tickets, jumping in the bounce house, and eating lots of sweets!

{shepard family maternity}

2009-10-27T23:29:00.001-07:00

I loved meeting this family and had to make a little video of their session! They are so sweet and genuine!

{wondering}

2009-10-26T09:55:00.001-07:00

{wondering}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

Loved this family, location, lighting, and everything else about this session. Can you believe mom still has 5 more weeks til she is due?

We had an incredibly busy weekend with the family. Saturday morning we went to a farm day at the University of Arizona Farm and got to spit crickets! (yuck!) There were also some great exhibits. I wished I knew it was more educational and I would have went earlier.

That evening we went to a birthday party of my friend Nancy's daughter. Yes, I will post pictures from this. It was the best party she has ever put on.

Yesterday we went to church and and then I headed up to Tempe for an amazing family session! Then I came home to a house full of wild Arizona Cardinal fans. Go Cards!

***I am staying a little ahead of schedule for my customers. I thank you all for your patience and such kind words. I know I say it over and over but I am so blessed to know you and capture these little moments! Blessings!***

{friends}

2009-10-15T14:40:00.001-07:00

{bright pink}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

There’s a miracle of friendship that
dwells within the heart
And you don’t know how it happens
or where it gets its start
But the happiness it brings you
always gives a special lift
And you realize that friendship
Is God’s most perfect gift.

My mom had this somewhere in her house. I don't remember where but I remember reading it over and over.

Friendship is something that I have been struggling with for a while now. For one thing, it is hard to open up and share your life with others and then it's not fun getting hurt. That doesn't mean I have to shut everyone else out and become bitter. A still quiet voice recently reminded me that it is not about me. Thank You, Lord, for Your whispers. I am sorry to all those I have hurt. Let me be a better friend to everyone You bring into my life.

{so happy with you}

2009-10-14T23:08:00.001-07:00

{so happy with you}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

Here's another picture from this engagement session. This wedding is going to be a ton of fun to photograph!

I just wanted to add a note that I add more pictures to my flickr account than I do here. I do a lot of still-life nature stuff and put that on my flickr. If you are interested in that, the page is

http://www.flickr.com/photos/psphoto2009

Thanks to all my flickr friends for all the kind words and encouragement! I am having so much fun and am quite addicted! :)

{swing low}

2009-10-13T14:11:00.001-07:00

{swing low}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

sweet chariot...coming for to carry me home.

My mom used to sing this lullaby to me and now I sing it to my kids.

On another note (haha), we are doing well here. I spent the morning making applesauce with some friends that also homeschool. It was such a great way to spend a day. Altogether we canned at least 125 lbs of apples. Oh yummy!

{chemistry}

2009-10-07T14:11:00.001-07:00

{chemistry}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

An engagement session from the weekend. He just happens to be a chemistry teacher.

Come see me at Founder's Day!

2009-10-07T13:38:00.001-07:00

Happy Fall! I hope you are all enjoying the cooler weather. I know I am!

Orchard Sessions have begun and are going great!

Schedule your ORCHARD SESSION now through Saturday at Founder’s Day and get a custom designed 2010 calendar* complements of Paula Stiller Photography!

WE ARE DOWN TO FOUR EVENING DATES

OCTOBER 17TH
NOVEMBER 7th
NOVEMBER 14TH
NOVEMBER 21ST

*12x18 mounted hung by a matching ribbon

*Available separately also! Would make a lovely Christmas gift!

{happy birthday, little man}

2009-09-28T19:08:00.001-07:00

{happy birthday, little man}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

lost his first tooth yesterday, seven years old today...

Mr.J,

We are so blessed to have you in our hearts and our home. You melt my heart daily and are turning into such a man of honor. You help your little brother and sister and set the example. Your talents amaze me over and over. Your kind spirit sets you above the others and I appreciate your generosity. Your daddy and I love you to the moon and back and back again. I pray you continue to grow your faith in God and pursue Him always.

Love you forever,

~Momma

{brand new}

2009-09-27T23:22:00.001-07:00

{brand new}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

This little guy was born 3 days ago and was welcomed by 5 older brothers!

He was a perfect little model for this new cocoon that my sister made for me! Let me know if you want her contact info. She is extremely talented!

On a personal note, I had a great Saturday at AWANA conference. I got to hang out with some girlfriends and laughed more than I have in years. The main speakers spoke on keeping your eyes on Jesus and MY GOD IS ABLE. TO USE ME. HOW I AM. RIGHT NOW.

I needed that.

Then this morning our new deacons gave some incredible testimonies of where they have been and what God has done in their lives. I was moved to tears. The battle is God's.

Today Mr.J lost his first tooth and tomorrow he turns 7. He hardly ever wants hugs and kisses anymore but tonight I asked him if I could get some while he was still 6. He gave me the sweetest hug ever and three kisses on the cheek. I wanted to cry. He is such a blessing!

Have a good week everyone!

{dreamland}

2009-09-25T00:25:00.001-07:00

{dreamland}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

The weather is cooling down and business is heating up!

This is beautiful "A". I am having so much fun with her pictures! She is so gorgeous! She was awake most of the time I got to spend with her but we managed to pull off some sleeping ones in the end thanks to a little trick I learned from her daddy! :)

{princess in the park}

2009-09-20T17:20:00.001-07:00

{princess in the park}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

I met this little beauty at a park near her house for a little mini-session! I keep thinking those blue eyes are going to fade but it doesn't look like it's going to be any time soon!

I have a friend who makes these tutus. If you are interested in buying one, let me know and I'll get you her contact information. They are very affordable and very cute! :)

{meet miss a}

2009-09-20T17:17:00.001-07:00

{meet miss c}, originally uploaded by ~paula~.

I got to spend a couple hours with the gorgeous new Miss A the other day. Can't you tell it was so hard? She is truly beautiful and I can't wait to get to the rest of the pictures that we took!

{Now Scheduling! - ORCHARD SESSIONS!}

2009-09-13T20:02:00.000-07:00

Because of limited availability, sessions will be scheduled on a first come, first serve basis. These sessions will book up very quickly...if you are considering a mini session for 2009, please book now to avoid disappointment.

*Expect 2 weeks to receive your cd and cards.
**OCTOBER to DECEMBER - ALL REGULAR SESSIONS WILL BE $200.

DON'T FORGET...

SEDONA IN THE FALL FAMILY SESSIONS ~ OCTOBER 10-11
Call to reserve your time!

HALLOWEEN PORTRAIT PARTIES! ~ OCTOBER 24 & 31
Schedule your party today!

NEW FOR THE HOLIDAYS!

*Portrait Parties Available*
*pick a date
*pick a location
*3 or more families
*30 minutes/family
*$25 off the regular $150 per family!

location, location, location!!!

2009-09-13T20:00:00.001-07:00

I got permission to use this spot for family portraits this year! Needless to say, I am so excited! I took this during the worst time of day and the picture still looks great. I can just imagine a beautiful family in awesome lighting...it's going to be a fun season! :)

{2009 Christmas Card Selection}

2009-09-13T19:13:00.000-07:00

So excited for this season to start. Things are all coming together.

I can make custom cards for anyone, even if I don't take your photos.

Details:

$1.75/card

5x7 custom photo postcard with envelope

Here is a quote I just got on facebook from a customer :

"Looking forward to our Christmas session ... the back to school shots are great. I hear my friend Sheila called you too ... Your work certainly speaks for itself ... can't wait to see the templates this year ... I am still getting compliments from last year ..."

flowerflakes
cozy1

cozy2

houndstooth
holly

patches

pieces1

shabby1

postcard

pieces2

stripes2

stripes1

shabby2