Bella Amadis Photography

EEEEEK!!!!

2010-02-19T13:46:00.000-08:00

What in the world is this thing? Who does it belong to and why have they neglected it??? Just joshin'. It's me. The long lost, horrible, no good, terribly bad, lame blogger. Life has been absolute chaos between a full wedding schedule and regular clients, then you add in life. I have been struggling with illness the past several months, and after two surgeries and many changes, have finally started to see the other end of this ordeal. Then, sadly, we were faced with three family deaths in two months. We spent far too much time between the hospital and funeral homes. Life seems to be calming down, thank goodness. Anywho, there is a reason for this post. I promise. In my downtime of recovery, I started making some changes to the website. ***Not. The. Smartest. Decision.*** In the process, I crashed my site. It's essentially floating in outerspace. Or outer-internet-space, if there is such a place. A few clients have called asking if I've gone out of business, freaking out. I've been so blessed to stick with families since their babies were babies and are now big kids. Rest assured, I have not gone out of business. The website should be back up in the next couple of days, assuming I'm capable of following simple directions now that the internal problems have been fixed. :) If anyone needs to reach me, before the website is back up, please feel free to do so at bellaamadis@gmail.com. I was on leave, as I always do during the cold seasons (this time for illness), but will be catching up on emails, calls that I may have missed while trying to sort all of this out. Thank you all for your patience and understanding. I didn't see this illness coming, and certainly didn't realize it would put me down for so long. I'm so thankful for amazing clients who have not only understood, but have also stepped in to lend a hand when needed. You are all AH-MAZING. Oh, and of course, pics to come soon. Maybe. I mean, how am I to hold up to my lame blogger reputation if I post more than every three months???

She blogs. Again.

2009-06-23T11:16:00.000-07:00

Told you I'd be blogging more! And all this time you doubted me, well doubt no more! I'm still weeding through tons of images, but here's a quick peek of wedding 2 of the 5 weddings I'm working at the moment. A big fat thank you to this beautiful couple for allowing me to photograph their wonderful day! We had an amazing time!

The details were perfect!

Fantastic and funnnn band! Nothing like Texas country.

Now. This series? Melts. My. Heart.

What a stunning bride, and perfect day!

What's that???

2009-06-19T12:47:00.000-07:00

SHE BLOGS?!?!?!

I know, it's true. I am back to the land of blogging. Only because I am *finally* starting to see a little ray of light at the end of the tunnel in my editing. I've got 5 weddings I am editing, two coming up, and regular sessions all to blog! So, this should be the first of loads to share. Hope you don't mind the lame blogger blogging! I was just trying to live up to the name you know, and insanely busy. Word. So, without anything further cause I could talk all day, but I am guessing my 4:30 clients would rather me wear clothes than jammies.....here's the good folks!

Ladies and Gentleman, a few images (more to come) from the most insanely fantastic Hall Wedding. Now I realize, this is just a small sampling. But I'm busy people!!! Thank you so much to the Mr & Mrs for allowing me the amazing opportunity to participate in such a magical day. Weddings like this are the reason I do what I do. Much love peeps!

Sneak Peek!

2009-04-03T09:09:00.000-07:00

Just a quick sneak peek to tie Miss Cedar Park Doll's mom over while waiting on the rest! They are SO fantastic, I can't wait to show you more!

She lives!

2009-03-27T08:00:00.000-07:00

I logged into my account today to work on another blog that I have to mentor a blossoming photographer, only to realize that I hadn't blogged in almost TWO MONTHS!!! How awful am I?!?! So, I'm alive. Obviously. Barely on some days it seems. Life is a crazy place, and it's been beyond crazy around here. Trying to find a new normal among the chaos has proven to be a harder task than I thought. But I will be back at work starting this weekend! I'm excited to get back behind the camera again. I'll be arranging some Portraits in the Park mini sessions in the coming weeks, if you are interested in those details let me know!!! Hope everyone is well.

LB: reporting for duty.

2009-01-26T10:32:00.000-08:00

Go ahead, pick your jaws up off the ground. It's me, Lame Blogger.....blogging. I know, shocking. But I'm just trying to stay true to the title here people. Well, the reality is - we've been bombarded with every mishap and unfortunate event you could possibly imagine. Within a week, we lost two very close family members. One from each family. Joseph's amazing grandfather passed just 6 days after my Great Aunt who passed on Christmas day. His Grandmother was in the hospital at the same time, so we spent a lot of time planning funeral arrangements, taking care of things for her, and just trying to keep ourselves together. Sorry to everyone who waited on me to return calls and emails, but I'm thrilled to report.....I'm finally caught up!!! I can't tell you how exciting that is for me! I am praying for, and looking forward to a fun filled (and easier) spring! With that all said, Spring sessions are just about to begin! I am coming back to work this weekend, so we are in full swing again. I can't even explain how thrilled I am even at just the thought of being back behind the camera! There is just something that makes my heart *right* when that camera is in my hands I am doing what I love. It's good to be back people!!! And because I'm such a giver, my plan is to catch up on sharing images.....so here's some to get it going! Much love people!!!

OUT OF OFFICE

2008-12-30T09:17:00.001-08:00

Due to a family emergency we will be closed for the remainder of the week. I have been on vacation with the holidays, but we had 2 deaths this week. I will not be returning emails or calls till Monday of next week. I apologize for any inconvenience and thank you all in advance for the patience as we go through this.

Bethany

{Challenge Issued}

2008-12-11T07:42:00.000-08:00

I know posting twice in one day isn't like me at all...much less posting once in one day! HA! But this morning I got a call from a girlfriend with an interesting request. We started talking about the rough times we seem to all be going through. Whether it be the economy, family life, illness, money...whatever. We all have struggles, we all have bad days, we all have burdens that weigh heavy on our lives. So, she put a challenge on me. A challenge that is simple really, and a concept that has been around for a while but not implemented enough. We have become a society of BIGGER, BETTER, MORE. In this process we have forgotten about each other. I myself am beyond guilty of using emails, texts, twitter, IM's to communicate, over a good ole fashion face to face. It's easier, simpler. In our conversation we were talking about how people have just changed. We don't look at each other anymore, people don't hold other people in as high regard as they should. Respect for others is now just an idea and not an action. I make it an effort to still do these things that I find important, mainly because it's the way I was raised and because it's the way I raise my children. We hold doors for others, say please and thank you, yes ma'am, no sir. These are things that are incredibly important, manners and common courtesy are dwindling. So, because I believe so firmly in the idea that we can be better - I am sharing the challenge.....

Between now and Christmas: show some love anonymously. Buy someone's coffee, donate to a good cause, drop off gifts to a family in need, take coats to a shelter. There are so many possibilities, it doesn't have to cost you a load. $5 may just be that blessing in someone's day. I promise you, it won't be the person you are gifting that is rewarded the most. Give of your heart this year.

{Forever Love: Balch}

2008-12-11T07:24:00.000-08:00

*GASP* <--- That's me gasping for air as I resurface. Again. :o) I know, I know.....LB (Lame Blogger) has returned. But in my own defense, it's that time of year. I have been slammed since September with holiday sessions, but it's over! YAY! Last weekend was my last working weekend of the year, now it's just fulfilling orders, eating holiday treats, and drinking coffee. And chasing kids. I've got a rash of emails, tweets, IM's, texts reminding me that my blog is neglected. First, thank you. I don't think I would have remembered how sad and lonely my blog must be without all of you reminding me. ;o) I do promise though, that in the coming weeks I will be sharing all that you have missed. I've had loads of sessions, so there is plenty to share. But, to start this off - I have images of an amazing event I was honored to be a part of. The Balch wedding was by FAR one of the most amazing experiences for me. The love was thick in the air. The bride was beaming and just every bit of delightful. The groom was so proud and eager to see his *BEAUTIFUL* bride. Each of them has a daughter, who are best of friends, and absolute riots. They kept me very well entertained, not to mention how absolutely stunning they both are. It was set in the backyard of their stunning downtown home. Perfectly complimented with a guitarist(is that what they are called?), righteous reception music choices, amazing BBQ, and loads of laughter. *sigh* *IT * WAS * PERFECT* So, here are just a handful of some of the images of their beautiful wedding. Balch Family, I love you. With all of my soul. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your amazing day. It still warms my heart.

2008-11-03T12:19:00.000-08:00

Well howdy do friends! It's your long lost host, also known as the Lame Blogger. You can call me LB for short. It only seems fitting. ;o) I am alive, in case you are wondering. The old computer was sent on back to Dell, and a refund should be on its way. I got my grubby hands on a new Apple, which makes my heart soar. But seriously, talk about a learning curve. Did I mention I am 3 weeks behind and have NO TIME FOR A LEARNING CURVE??? So, I am hoping and praying to be back on track very soon. If you are waiting on an email response from me, I am spending the next 2 days catching up so look for an email from me. If you haven't heard from me by Wednesday, please resend your email just in case you got lost in the mix! I have boat loads to share, so check back soon! Wedding images are well on their way, and just beautiful!!!

XOXO,
LB

Computer Woes....again!

2008-10-20T11:16:00.000-07:00

Just a quick FYI - as most of you know I started having computer problems about 3 weeks ago. I crashed a total of 3 times, thankfully didn't lose anything at all. (be thankful for small miracles) Well, week before last I was supposed to get a new mother board, video card, and hard drive. I got everything but the mother board. *duh* So, today they came back with the new mother board and I was SO excited that I could finally get back on track! Mother board comes, tech puts it in.....nothing. My computer is broken, again. I am sad, and we are probably going to just return it and get the mac we wanted to begin with. So, point is.....we are without a computer again. If you are waiting on images, a session, etc please bare with me while I get back on track again. I can apologize all day long, but I'd rather Dell do that for me. I'll keep this updated!

Because I save lives.

2008-10-14T08:39:00.000-07:00

I got a frantic email from a very dear friend who I won't mention *cough hack gag Megan cough hack gag* , demanding images from my BIG weekend. So, because I am a pleaser, and a middle child, and a lover of the girl who I won't mention. Mostly because I don't want her to spontaneously combust, which is highly possible....I am posting images. If you are wondering what the heck I am talking about, I also run a photo forum. A wonderful group of photographers from all over that are friends online, we learn from each other, share with each other, and are some of the most amazing girls I know. Well, this weekend I hosted our first annual get together. It was a whirlwind of events, with an amazing wedding mixed in. Friday my wonderful friend Robin and I taught a workshop to the girls, then Friday evening we shot bridals. And yes, you will recognize ME in these photos. Don't know how I ever agreed to do that one, but the images are sooooo cool. Saturday and Sunday morning, we used our little ones as models. It was loads of fun, but man am I beat. My legs feel like they may fall off at any point. I've got a LOAD of images to process and no time. lol But, here's a few to get us by till I get through some of these wedding images from the past few weeks!

Special thanks to Sara E and Suzanne B for taking some bridal images with my camera so I had something to play with!

A new kind of tag!

2008-10-03T05:38:00.001-07:00

Yes, I realize I've reverted to my LB ways. I get it. I suck. But in my own defense, if you read my last blog post, you will see that our brand new computer crashed. This has proved to be one of the biggest pains in my rear. Ever. I'm still irritated by it, and JUST got it to a functional work state. Super frustrating. But, I'm getting there. And on top of that chaos, I had sessions to keep up with. It is after all my Christmas season. AND....tomorrow I get to document the Balch wedding. Can I just tell you how excited I am??? They are SUCH an amazing couple, so fun and just down right fantastic. I have no doubt this will be one of the most moving weddings I'll ever be able to be at. They ooze love. *sigh* I love oozing love. Gives me warm oozy lovey dovey fuzzies.

Ok, back to business. While visiting one of my fav blogs (Miss Mud, who I've mentioned before....she's the inspiration behind appreciating my inner most random thoughts. She should be proud) I saw that I'd been tagged. This one is a book tag, here is how it works.........

Grab the nearest book.
Open the book to page 56.
Find the fifth sentence.
Post the text of the next two to five sentences in your blog along with these instructions.
Don’t dig for your favorite book, the cool book, or the intellectual one: pick the CLOSEST.
Tag five other people to do the same.

-taken from "Finding God in Autism"

"Well, God is thinking of you. You have not been forgotten. God has blessings to give to you. You have been called to His eternal glory. There is no end to eternity."

My favorite line, is a few down that says..."Today, dwell upon the fact it is God and God alone, who is restoring you, making you strong, firm and steadfast."

What a great reminder, and perfect start to my day. Mason is home sick, and when a child with autism is sick it's a whole new emotional world. Today, we are strong in faith.

I am tagging Megan, Robin, Jackie, Stefanie, Tashia

{Dead In The Water}

2008-09-24T16:37:00.000-07:00

Although I would like to scream, cry, and find the nearest closet to hide in to suck my thumb....I can only smile. Dead in the water....my life at this moment. A few months ago, 3 to be exact, I retired my 2 year old faithful Dell laptop for an amazing new Dell system that boasted a 24" screen, more memory than I'd ever know what to do with, and it's just a pretty spiffy machine. Well, last night I went to do something on the computer and it froze. I went to restart it and it was DEAD. I am blessed beyond belief that I am able to recover all of the images from it. I am very diligent about backing up my sessions, but sadly had not prioritized backing up my own family images. I was devastated to learn that I'd have to do a complete system retore, but so thankful that I am able to rescue precious memories. I am feeling slightly robbed at the moment. Technology stinks, and things break. It's bound to happen, and nothing is perfect. I am still a loyal dell user, have a darn good laptop that's saving my rear right now....but this just stinks no matter how you look at it. SO....if you are waiting on an email from me, please know that while I do have computer access at the moment - my brain is on overload from scrambling to fix this. We JUST got resituated from being out of town, so I am a mess right now. Bear with me and I will get back to everyone as soon as I possibly can!

College Station and the girl I love.........

2008-09-21T20:18:00.000-07:00

We are back in town! Did you know I was gone? I bet you didn't. Forgot to post it. SO, we left and now we're back. We had the amazing privilege of going to College Station for the weekend to shoot a wedding with a very dear friend of mine. Saturday was all work, 9 hours straight of wedding coverage. I was pooped! I've got so many images to edit and post it's not even funny. But for now, our little adventure today. Today, we ventured out with Stef, to downtown Bryan, TX. SO MUCH FUN! If I could have packed up this alley and brought it home with me, I would have. Amazing, beautiful, delicious light. sigh. It's good. Good. GOOOOOOD. Ok, so I could go on about how much fun I had, but I'll be back tomorrow with the things I learned while in College Station. It's interesting to say the least. LOL

XOXO

{Not so} Useful Facts

2008-09-12T11:38:00.000-07:00

Can you handle anymore of these???? I hope so, cause I've got a lot on my mind people. Apparently my little homies have no desire to hear me complain about how my hair just won't look the same or how I need a pedicure but should really think about shaving first. So, since this IS my blog and all I am pouring more useless facts into your lives. It's really useless thoughts, which is mostly what my being is made up of. Be warned, if you aren't into me and my uselessness (is that a word??) please find another place to visit fast. I'm useless. Ness. Amen.

1. I went to fill up my truck with gas last night, and apparently so did everyone else.

2. I wasn't filling up cause I was worried, I was filling up cause my children like it when I get them from school.

3. We're in Austin, and I'm sure we're gonna have some storms but in Texas we apparently go big or go home. So everyone is preparing.

4. Except for me.

5. I did manage to go to the grocery store today.

6. Was baffled again by the amount of people there stocking up.

7. I was there not to stock up for hurricanes, but to get food for our weekly Fat Free Friday eating frenzy.

8. I am a firm believer that your body does not consume fat on Friday's.

9. This would be why I've gained 10 lbs in 3 months.

10. But momma didn't raise a quitter!

11. Speaking of quitters, I started my "Get my butt in better shape campaign" yesterday.

12. I am motivated since I don't want to buy any more jeans(i have a jean addiction and just want to continue to fit the ones i have and love).

13. I am however taking donations for the "Buy Bethany New Jeans Fund" in case I fail miserably.

14. Not really.

15. But if you really want to send me money or cute jeans I'll squeal and love you forever.

16. I actually have a weekend OFF!

17. And it's going to storm.

18. I totally appreciate when that happens to me.

19. Not really.

20. This is the calm before the storm, after this weekend our life is going to be hectic.

21. We are hosting a photographer get together here in a few weeks.

22. I am sooo not prepared.

23. Which is another awesomeness thing from me.

24. Not really.

25. I was going to have a garage sale in the morning to get rid of a bunch of crap.

26. Then Ike happened to me, someone come take my crap please.

27. Thank you.

28. It's almost nap time, and I am excited.

29. I would rather take a nap than mop my floors, guess which one I'll do.

30. NOOOO, it's not nap. Sheesh.

31. I went to Target this week, to get a "few things"....

32. 2 pairs of heels, 2 shirts for me, 3 boy shirts, pants for the man, jammies for the girl, jeans for the girl, a new rug.......

33. I got a spankin'.

34. Not really.

35. The heels were for me just to clarify. Joseph can't ever find his size. HA Ok, silly me.

36. It's nap time and I've run out of randamonium. Is it bad to end this on a mid-point number thing???

37. I think it is.

38. My kids are cwazy.

39. And now it's nap time.

40. Peace out home slices.

And because I know you don't just come here to listen to my junk, here is an image from a recent session. A favorite of mine, I just love this little guy! So does Brooklynne. lol

7 years

2008-09-11T11:22:00.000-07:00

Seven years ago today, I was driving to work listening to the radio. I came into the morning radio station in the midst of a conversation about a plane crash. At first, I thought they were talking about a movie, or who knows what. By the time I arrived to work, I knew enough to turn on the news. There, our staff sat in disbelief. We all cried as we watched the 2nd plane go crashing into the World Trade Center. Tears streamed down my face for much of the day. Confusion, disbelief, agony. I can still see so vividly those images, just engraved in my memory. The pictures of heroic acts, pure devastation, fear. It was so thick you could feel it in your gut a million miles away. You always hear about the people who were directly affected by the loss, because they knew somebody. I can't even imagine the pain of such a loss. The truth is, our entire country hurt that day. Our entire country lost something that day. I believe America to be the most amazing place on Earth. We are so blessed, and seven years ago we were robbed of life. All walks of life, all races, all religions. Those things no longer mattered. We lost a lot of lives. We lost our sense of security for a brief moment. We did not lose hope though, we did not lose faith, and we became a closer community of Americans. My heart and prayers are with all of those today who lost a family member in this tragedy. God Bless America.

2008-09-08T13:26:00.000-07:00

1 in 150 children are affected by AUTISM. That is a statistic that has been a reality and rocked our world since the beginning of this year. I would have never imagined that with a son at the age of 3, that I would be in the fight of a life. Fighting for a better tomorrow for a boy that holds my heart. It has been one of the hardest battles of my life, but I won't look back. I am thankful. Thankful for Mason, he is amazing, stunning, kind, gentle, and pure. Thankful for autism, it has taught me to be a better mom, have more patience and appreciate the small accomplishments. Those small accomplishments are huge feats for us. I am thankful for all of the support, it has shown me how much God really provides. I am thankful for this. Always will be. I pray every day for a cure, but today I take what I have and love it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhScvPYXunc

HAIR!

2008-09-06T15:36:00.000-07:00

I've been saying for the past several months that I need to cut my hair, and while I have a hair lady I love I kept forgetting to make an appointment and she books fast! My hair was so overgrown it had it's own zip code. Not really, but I wonder if I could get a tax break if it did. So, last night I decided that it had to be done this weekend, so off I was today to Toni and Guy for a cut. I'm fairly certain I lost at least 5 lbs of hair, which is fabulous cause I wanted to lose 5 lbs anyhow. HA Ok, so it didn't come off the section of me I really need it off - but its way cute. The hair lady did a fantastic and I just lurve it. Everyone who has seen it is surprised to hear that I had about 8" removed. It is just at the bottom of my bra strap (pardon the tmi, but its the best way to describe it) but it was down to the small of my back. I contemplated going with a bob, but that would have required me being unconscious. lol Anyways, all of my freaky friends wanted to see the do so here she is.

First I tried to take the picture myself, I need go-go gadget arms fo' real!

I took this one too, and while it doesn't show all of the locks, it's me. ;o)

Whew. You made it. Do I look thinner? NO??? What do you mean??? Ugh, you're so mean. Seriously. You could say I do at least. Sheesh. No love to be had here.

Interview with a cowboy.....

2008-09-04T18:44:00.000-07:00

I had the amazing pleasure of photographing a sweet, talented, and fun cowboy recently. Sam Riggs is a name you should know, because I think one day everyone will know his name. His talent is as big as his heart, and it shows in just his kind nature. He was SUCH a joy to work with, and I can't wait to take more photos for Sam. After his session, I had the hair-brained idea of doing an interview with Sam. Being the gentleman that he is, he humored me in my silly antics to be a cool girl. Or not. I felt cool, ok?!?! So, here is my fun interview with a cowboy. Sam, I think you're pretty fabulous and I hope you get the recognition you and your talent deserve.

If you had to describe yourself, your style, your music - how would you?

-Straight foward and real. I try as hard as possible to tap into emotions we've all felt when I write, and bring that to the stage at shows. I'm a good timer who likes to draw outside the lines, but I stay away from the whole "super star" look. That's definitely not me. I'm not interested in selling my face, just my music...

I have listened to your music, and I am so amazed by the talent. Do you write your own music, and if so what inspires you when you are writing?

-Yes, I write all of my material. When I sit down to write I think about things, events, people, places and situations that have affected me, and then I proceed to come up with a way to put that into lyrics with a melody and wrap it all up into a relatable song. I like songs that I can listen to and say "hey! that just happened to me!" or "wow, that takes me back to when..." I also strive to write material that encourages people to live life out loud...cause life is like a rodeo... we only get one go-round, so make it count.

What musicians have inspired your journey?

-John Rich, Jason Aldean,Jerry Reed, Kevin Fowler, Garth Brooks, Randy Travis, Merle Haggard, George Jones, Hank Williams Jr. and Sr., and many others.

Favorite song of all time???

-Not a fair question.... I'll name you two of my favorites: Hick Town (Jason Aldean), and Amos Moses (Jerry Reed).

When did this journey begin for you?

-eh, at about the age of six-this was when I really knew that I wanted to be a singer/songwriter.

If you could headline for one singer or band, who would it be?

-ohhh geeeze.... probably Kevin Fowler... there's always a great crowd at his shows...

I know you are working right now on some sample music, when should we expect to hear more from you?

-The expected release date of my upcoming album will be towards the end of this year.

Will you still come sing my children to sleep? I'm tired. While you are at it, will you clean my house????

-Haha, of course! My Mom sang my brother and I to sleep till we were in the third grade- so I'm no stranger to bedtime musicals haha.
And as for the house... I'll do my ole' one-two on it! Have er shinin' like slick 50:)

Next, because I'm just a nosy kind of girl, please tell us about yourself. Your background in music, what has brought you to where you are?

-Oh boy here we go haha... As I said before, my mother had a huge role in my music, She's a dreamer, and she encouraged me since I was just a youngin' to follow my heart... it hasn't been an easy road though. I was born and raised in St. cloud FL, and it was there that the proverbial "seed" of my music career sprouted. Growing up I was emersed in southern tradition and was brought up in a family full of good hearted women, cowboys, truck drivers, mechanics, and one preacher-(my grandad). I started playing around my home town in bars and at parties when I was around 14, and from there on out I've been addicted to the music and the crowd. I was raised to work hard and play hard so that's how I roll... I moved here to Austin just over a year ago, and imediately fell into the music scene. I love this place! I play most every gig I can find, and for the ones that don't require a full band, I do solo gigs as well.

Do you think I'm the coolest photographer in the world??? (You better say yes)

-Not only are you the coolest, but also quite a talent! and so professional!

Don't you just LOVE your photos??? I do, you're gonna have to chase the girls away!

-Yes ma'am I have to say, those pictures actaully do say a thousand words...you caught a side of me few ever see... the good one! haha.... you did a fine job though really. I don't chase girls away...when I play a show and there's a lot of girls, then there's bound to be a lot of dudes too, and that makes for a good crowd! And When you're playing for the door big crowds are good...

Will you keep us posted to any gigs you will be playing here? I'd love to go and know lots of people who will want to know too once they get to know you and
your music!

-Absolutely! I normaly post all of my gigs on: http://www.myspace.com/samriggsmusic so you can check there and listen to some tunes while you're on the site!

And for the finale, I'm fairly certain I turned 56 shades of red. (Are there 56 shades of red??? If not, I made new ones tonight) Final question, cause I know someone is gonna want to know!

"I was going to include this earlier, then didn't want to be a freak. hehe Then I was informed that all the ladies are going to want to know so better ask now then after I've posted your pics. hehehhee I haven't asked a boy this in a long time and I didn't want to be the creepy old girl to ask this, but it's for the stinking interview. lol

Are you single???

I am such a tard."

-Hahahahaha *falls over laughing*.... yes, as a result of recent executive desicion making...

And so he left me, with a juicy answer. I threatened to hunt him down, pig tie him, and poke the juicy details out of him. But, I don't know where he lives, and I don't know how to pig tie, or tie a pig, or tie anything for that matter. And its dark, and I've got a house to clean cause he is hiding from me since he promised to give her the old one two. Men. Really though, this was fun. If Sam's ever playing a gig in the area, I will post it here - you have to check him out!!! He is just such a sweet, adorable guy! Thank you Sam!

{E-session: Kim & Beau}

2008-08-20T12:47:00.000-07:00

I had the amazing pleasure of having an engagement session for a couple who's wedding we will be photographing in October. First, can I say I adore this couple. They adore each other, and I adore them because they adore each other. And I am so blessed to be able to capture such an amazing bond. We had such a great time, and many laughs - I am so looking forward to their special day, it's going to be phenominal!!! Beau and Kim, thank you for letting me help tell your story. In case you hadn't read, I adore you and am so happy to be working with you. ;o)

S.W.A.K. - Sealed With A Kiss.

XOXO,

Bethany

Playing Catch-up #1

2008-08-13T06:55:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned, I am so far behind in my posting that this week I'll be bringing you all up to date. ;o) This is part 1 in what will probably be a 1,248 part series, and yes that's really how far behind I feel. And no, I do not exagerate much. Sheesh. Ok, so on to the goods!

Meet the M Family. They were awesome. Fun. Adventurous. And as I'm sure you can tell from the photo below, they were ummmm.....GORGEOUS. All of them. I had so much fun working with them, they just made my job even easier!

Check out this handsome man. He was just about the sweetest thing ever, and boy did he adore his daddy! I could have taken pictures of his sweet little face all day.

Then, there's the baby. Ohhhhhh, the baby. He was so sweet, so lucious. A momma's boy, which always steals my heart. The most amazing eyelashes, and locks to die for! And hello creamy skin - why don't you visit me too?!?! Is he not just the cutest thing?!?! I wanted to take him home, his mom wouldn't let me.

Thank you to the M family, for allowing me the wonderful pleasure of photographing your gorgeous family. You guys were so much fun, and what an amazing family - filled with love!

Coming up for air, with pictures!

2008-08-11T07:53:00.000-07:00

Wowza, a girl just can't seem to catch up! LOL Good news is, we've been busy with lots of amazing new clients. It's kept me beyond busy, and we are so excited to be moving and shaking! We used to be about 95% word of mouth (thanks to you awesome people), but lately internet visitors are catching up with referrals. And as usual, the new client have been just as amazing as the existing ones! I am slowing down, hopefully will have a bit of a breather before we get into Holiday portraits next month. Can't believe that's already here. Oh, and school starts in just 14 days!!! Reagan is starting kinder, and is so excited. I am excited for him, and of course nervous. We had kinder orientation this weekend, it was so cute. He had such a great time and loved being able to see his new digs. I on the other hand wanted to hide in a corner and pretend it wasn't happenening and my baby was still a baby. However, I'm thinking he wouldn't appreciate me starting the embarrassment before school even starts. ;o) Anyways, my hope is to update with everything I am behind in all this week. I've got a ton of sessions to post, so keep checking back for more throughout the week! In the meantime, here's some vacation pictures!!!

I love her little piggies, all covered in sand is even cuter.

She just wasn't sure what to think of the sand. lol This was her concerned little face almost the whole time. lol

This little punk however adored the beach, and can't wait to go back!

And the middle punk, he loved the beach too. And his sister's sunglasses.

Yes, I know. LB has returned.

2008-08-02T09:41:00.000-07:00

Yes, I'm alive. Yes, I survived the gritty sand, ocean water, not so awesome hotel, and Dolly. I just am being LB at the moment. That's right. Just keep calling me LB, for the Lame Blogger LIVES!!! It's been chaos I tell you, we went on vacation, had to come home early because of Dolly, came home to kids getting sick, got well, then got busy. So, I hope to post more in the next few days. I have tons of vacation pics, but I'm swamped with sessions and orders at the moment and I'm thinking that may be slightly more important. So, I am leaving you with one image. And also check out this video, it's very sweet! http://www.raisingsmallsouls.com/wp-content/themes/179/aschool012008.html

XOXO,

AKA - BETHANY

AKA - TIRED WOMAN

AKA - HUNGRY WOMAN (where is my husband with my lunch???)

AKA - VERY INSANELY BUSY WOMAN

AKA - TIRED WOMAN. DID I MENTION THAT???

Holy smokes!

2008-07-15T19:54:00.000-07:00

Hi friends! Long time no talk, I need someone to blog for me these days. lol I've been so swamped with sessions that I am hardly keeping up here! But that's ok, cause I'm having a blast in the process! Meet J, she's as fabulous as it gets. I heart her. We had SUCH a good time at our session, funny thing was I can totally see Brooklynne being as spunky as this one when she's grown. She was such a beauty, but smart as a whip! I had loads of fun and was so blessed to have been able to make memories with this beautiful family. Thanks guys!!!!

Yep, she's the boss.

This one cracked me up!

hehe we had lots of fun

she cracked herself (and me) up!!!

BYBC FUN!!!

2008-07-10T20:43:00.000-07:00

Our fun week of Backyard Bible Club has come to an end, and we survived!!! LOL, that's all that's important here. And no one was hurt. Even more important. I've got my priorities ok?!?! We had a great time, we were a small club, but our group was great and the teens that came out to teach our little ones were amazing! (just don't tell them I said so) Here's a few from our fun week, I've got a ton more of course but just a few for tonight!

This kid had the most energy ever, but was a might fine Gospel teller!

Here's that energy in play, he wore those boys out. lol

These kids were COMMITED to the shark song. lol

And of course, can't leave out the princess. I got to play with my new lens finally, LOVE IT.

Ok, that's it for now. I'll be back to post more from our fun week soon. I don't have pics from yesterday, which was Water Wednesday. I was too busy getting nailed with water balloons. Darn kids.

Back Yard Bible Club!

2008-07-06T08:24:00.000-07:00

If you live in the Austin area, you may have started to see signs pop up in yards for Back Yard Bible Club. As a member of Hill Country Bible Church, this is such an exciting event for us and our children. Reagan has participated for 2 years now, though he was a little young and didn't really get it till last year. This year we decided to host a club here at our house. Because our church is so large, and our goal is to reach the community - we take our VBS right to our neighborhoods. Teens from our church go to camps to help them prepare to lead the clubs, they put on cool skits, talk about the Bible, even have a water day right in the front yard of each host home. Yes, I know it's technically Front Yard Bible Club, but that just doesn't sound as cool. lol Anyways, all of this to say - if you have a child that is 5 years old through 4th grade - please bring them to my front yard this week!!! We are a host home this year, Reagan is so excited about it and we'd love to have everyone! The club is this Monday - Thursday, with a huge Summerfest party at the church on Friday! Our club time is at 7:30pm, please email or call me if you need directions or have any questions about the club. You can also go to www.hcbc.com for more info or to find a club near you!

Happy 4th!

2008-07-04T10:19:00.000-07:00

We are closed for the weekend, but will answer all emails when we reopen on Monday. I hope you are having a safe and happy 4th of July!!! I'm sure I'll have some fun pics to share!!!

Sidenote - Yahoo users!!!! PLEASE supply me with an alternate email. I've set up 3 different email accounts, 2 of which are being sent to spam and the other is not even getting to yahoo. If we've emailed in the past, it may go through - but you are likely missing emails from me if you have a yahoo account! If you are waiting on an email from me, check the spam box! I'm SO over yahoo! ;o)

Check out this adorable family!

2008-07-03T10:59:00.000-07:00

Seriously, have you ever seen such a cute family?!?! I am absolutely convinced that these parents are far too young to have children this age, so they probably just borrowed them for the session. lol Not only were mom and dad gorgeous, their children were as well. Add to that the fun we had at this session, I think I'm in love with them. Mom, do you cook? Clean? Laundry? If so, can I move in??? You'll have one off doing the big world thing soon, and I'm looking for someone to feed me. lol Thank you guys so much for letting me be part of your day, it was much fun!

XOXO,
LB

My crew!

2008-07-02T08:31:00.001-07:00

So, I realize it's not mostly my crew it's mostly my daughter. But it's not because she is my favorite, though she is for sure the best girl in the world, she just happens to be the most cooperative. I have many, many, MANY more to edit - but clients come first people! Here's a few from our major fun adventure in Hutto. We went out with a wonderful up and coming photographer to play, she was gracious enough to take the family photo! And did amazing at it. ;o) Who knew Hutto had such gems?!?! Granted, we had to make sure to not step on the dead rats, bird poop, owl regurgitation.......and I'm pretty sure there was a corpse in another building. But if you can get over those things, this place is AMAAAAZING!!! I need a bride brave enough to go out there, if you know one that wants a free session let me know!

XOXO,

I know, I know, I know

2008-07-01T13:15:00.000-07:00

Just go ahead and continue to call me the lame blogger. Or LB for short. Just don't call me short. In my own defense (again), I went from just being busy with my kids to taking on 7 sessions in a week. And remember, I normally only take on 2-3 a week. Yes, I'm crazy. BUT, I'm half way through those 7 sessions, and I've had a great time doing them! So, since I'm behind in posting these are actually images that were supposed to be posted late last week. Meet Mr. P. I love him. He is so sweet, and snuggly. And has an insanely cute big brother to match his insanely cute self. Oh, and they had insanely cute outfits. I loved them. I had the great pleasure of photographing Mr. O, the big brother of the family now, when he was just a couple weeks old. So, when Mr. P was born I was thrilled to be invited back into their lives for a moment to make some memories. It's an easy job with kiddos this cute. Thanks for letting me be there to make memories with you guys, your children are gorgeous and I of course had the best time! Thanks for stopping in, I have a LOAD to share so stay tuned for lots more this week!!!

XOXO,

Do you remember me? Your host???

2008-06-20T08:12:00.000-07:00

Yeah, yeah, yeah. I KNOW.....I totally suck at keeping up with everything during the summer. But in my own defense, I've been really busy getting orders together and doing all of my regular stuff with 3 kids biting at my ankles it's just so much harder! Is it August yet??? lol In all reality, I adore having them at home. I really do. But since Mason didn't get a summer program for special needs, it just really takes a toll on him. His need level is so much higher than a "typical" child and no matter how hard I work to match his energy level he's topped me by the time I get there. lol It's exhausting. We've had lots of fun in the sun, they are so enjoying the pool. Especially Miss Brooklynne - that girl is a water baby! She just can't get enough. I need to get pictures of them out at the pool. I am so enjoying just hanging with my homies. ;o) My mommy's helper started this week, she only came once this week but it was such a nice treat to have uninterrupted time to concentrate on my work. She will come in really handy! I think I want her to move in. lol She's a teenager though, and I'm thinking her parents won't be so down with that idea.

I had the amazing opportunity to meet up with some local photographer's on Wednesday evening. We went to Duke's BBQ for dinner and had lots of fun getting to know everyone. I host a local forum, as well as a photo forum for photographers of all levels and I've had the pleasure of getting to know most of the ladies there before we had our meet up. It was such a great time, and I'm looking forward to our next meet up! Here's a couple pictures from our evening. I have more, but need to check with the other mom's first to see if I can share here. Thanks so much to all the ladies who came!!!

This was just about all I could get out of my little people. They weren't liking me for portraits. lol

Oh, and even one of ME and Brooklynne

One of my dear photographer friends pointed out I was looking a little on the yellow side. Must be in the sun too much. LOL

So, I'll promise to be posting more. Even if it's my own kids. I need to bust that camera out for everyday stuff again!!!

2008-06-12T09:35:00.000-07:00

Meet Lil Miss H. She's a doll, beautiful, fun, adventurous, and loving. She was SO much fun to work with, I seriously could have photographed this little one all day long. And let me tell you, that girl can work a camera! Just look at this face! She just HAS it! :o) My kind of girl. Thank you Miss H, you were so lovely to follow. I had such a blast getting to know you! XOXO

Cardboard Testimonials

2008-06-05T11:23:00.000-07:00

I found this video on the blog of a very talented vendor I know, Neil Creative and had to share it. I watched it twice and was in tears both times. It's amazing and worth the watch. How blessed and humbled I am to be loved by such an amazing God.

Feels Like 20 Minutes......

2008-06-04T19:25:00.001-07:00

I had the incredible privilege of being invited to join the G Family on Memorial Day weekend to photograph an amazing reunion. The entire family had not all been together in the same place in years, and since they were spending a long weekend together they thought it would be perfect timing for family photos! I couldn't agree more! Joseph and I headed out to the lakehouse of one of the siblings, which was BEAUTIFUL. The families were amazing and kind and seriously organized! It went smoother than I could have ever hoped for, and we had such a great time in the process. The grandparents were AMAZING, and I have to say the favorite part of my day was photographing them. They were still so in love, and when I asked them to kiss for a picture they were silly with giggles like teenagers in love. Their kind souls were so refreshing. As they sat there having their photos taken, the grandfather says to me "47 years and going strong.". (I think he said 47 but my brain is fried from all the processing, so I could be off) To which I said, "Really? Wow!". He then says to me "Feels like 20 minutes.". It was sweet, sincere, inspiring. Then the grandmother without skipping a beat looks at me, says "20 minutes under water! Can you hold your breath for 20 minutes?!?!". I DIED laughing. They giggled like teens in love again. It was to date one of the best times I've had at a session. I've been proofing their session like crazy, and am finally there seems to be an end in sight! I hope to be done with proofing their session soon, but here is a sneak peek to keep them till the rest are ready. G Family, thank you. Your family is beautiful, amazing, loving, and fun! My kind of people. :o)

I'll gladly hold my breath 20 minutes under water if I'm still that happy 47 years down the road.

The Lame Blogger

2008-06-04T06:44:00.000-07:00

Yep, that's me. But in my own defense, it's been a crazy couple of weeks and sad thing is Mason still has 2 days left of school. What is my life going to be like once all 3 are at home all day? Funny, I never imagined they wouldn't be at home at this stage. I planned for Reagan to be in preschool, then off to kinder but the other 2 would be here. Now that Mason has been going to school everyday we've got a different schedule than I expected. He's been sick the last 2 days, so they've all been here and let me just tell you - it's been pure and utter chaos. Most of the day yesterday Mason was laid up, but just after lunch time he was finally done with the throwing up and was totally bouncing off my walls. lol Since he won't get a summer program at the school, it will be up to me to keep him really structured (which I am good at), but I will also have to make every effort to keep the regression at a minimum. We know he will have some regression for sure, but I have to do my best to keep his level of learning and modeling as strong as possible. I'm looking forward to having the mother's helper, cause at least I'll be able to get a bit of work done, get my housework done, maybe even get out to the grocery! ;o) Just remember to keep me in your prayers this summer, it's going to be a doozy! lol

Ok, sooooo from the tones of the last few comments I've gotten, it seems that me talking nonsense about my life is no longer acceptable. Seems some people want to see some pics. Sheesh. Such big demands here people. :oP Sad news is, I'm just now blogging about these insanely handsome little boys (their session was a few weeks ago). oops. Good news is, they're insanely handsome so it makes up for it! Meet the W boys, or as I like to call them The Boys with Killer Eyes. I don't really call them that. But I would have if I thought of it at the session. Yeah. These boys - sooo sweet. Loved them, and could have photographed them all day long (well except big brother was SO over me).

Did I mention I am behind in my editing? So, you'll be seeing images that are like totally last week. But that's my life. Totally livin' weeks behind. It's awesome. You should try it. Brings a whole new meaning to living in the past. Amen.

WAAAAAAH, etc.

2008-06-01T08:19:00.000-07:00

Just so everyone knows, my website and email are down. I've had a rough go of really unusual events with the new site, and we've hit another unusual obstacle. There was an electrical fire that caught a transformer on fire, shutting down our systems. They are working as quickly as they can to correct the issue. Luckily there seems to be no data loss, so once they get it fixed on their end we should be back in action. If anyone needs to get me by email between now and then, you can email me at bella_amadis@sbcglobal.net . Brooklynne's birthday party is today, and I have a lovely local photographer coming to help me capture the day. It'll be nice to be more of a mommy today. :o) Anyways, I'll be back with pics soon. It's been a crazy couple weeks, but I promise to get myself back on track!

Randomonium (sp?)

2008-05-27T09:44:00.000-07:00

It was brought to my attention this morning by a very dear and impatient friend, whom shall remain anonymous (cough hack cough megan cough hack cough burp pardon), that I have yet again neglected my blog. So, in efforts to keep my dear friend happy I am here. Posting. Nonsense. I had several weeks 'off', which is bizarre and odd for me. It's just how my month ended up, so it wasn't planned, but it has left me with a TON of work all at once. I normally only ever work Saturday's, but this month I've had 3 weekday sessions in addition to my weekend sessions and pretty much all of my work for the month ended up being within a 10 day period. So, I've been running around like a mad woman trying to keep up, and it's not working so well. Good news is, I think I've found myself a mommy's helper for the summer to help keep me on task. And I laugh about the "on task" thing, but a girl can hope! Since Mason won't get a summer program this year, I've been a little concerned about what to do with their days. But if I can keep up with work with the help of extra hands, I can probably have a couple of days a week that I am not stuck in front of the computer working. I love resolutions. They are so resolving. ;o) Ok, so I really have nothing else of any huge interest at this very moment. But I will be SURE to come back this week with images to share and more randomonium. Amen.

Sweetness.

2008-05-12T14:31:00.001-07:00

My grandparents came to visit this weekend, and while they were in town we headed out to Marble Falls for some yummy lunch at the Bluebonnet Cafe. If you've never been there, you have to check it out! It's just a little diner, but man the food is yummy and the pie is out of this world (but still not as good as my mom's or granny's!)! On our way home we took the long way through Burnet and Bertram, and stopped at this old (and nasty lol) flea market that always has lots of cool antiques and such. I've been on the prowl for a really cool chair for a while, still looking for a velvet wingback chair of some sort, but was thrilled to find this cool chair! It happened to match Brooklynne's dress too! LOL I wish she had been wearing a contrasting color, but it still worked well. We stopped at this cool abandoned building in Bertram, and my kids actually cooperated for a few photos. It was just for fun, but I ended up with a ton of pics I LOVE!!! Too bad too, cause I just ordered 3 new canvases for myself and had to use images from Thanksgiving. lol Which means I'll have to just get more of these! ;o) Hope you all had a beautiful Mother's Day, it was a gorgeous day out!

She is the one person he will stop and give love to, no matter what. And she loves it.

How I love these three little mongrels.

Isn't she getting so big?!?!

This is her saying, "Mooooom, not more photos!". LOL

Yay for kids being still!

Peek-a-boo!

Tagged....x2!

2008-05-06T09:47:00.000-07:00

Many of you may remember the last time I was tagged, well I've been tagged again times 2! My crazy friend Vicki, and a wonderful budding photographer Alison tagged me. This time there are actual questions to answer so I don't have to dig up 10 random things about me! ;o)

The rules are:
1. The rules of the game get posted at the beginning.
2. Each player answers the questions about themselves.
3. At the end of the post, the player then tags 5 people and posts their names, then goes to their blogs and leaves them a comment, letting them know they've been tagged and asking them to read your blog.

What I was doing 10 years ago: 10 years ago...well, I was almost 18 so I'm sure I was up to nothing good that's for sure! And yes, I really am 27 (and a half), and yes I do have 3 kids at this ripe young age. My husband and I like each other...a lot. ;o)

Five things on my To Do List today: I am a list maker, especially when there are things to really be done. My grandparents are visiting this weekend, and while they may not even come here I feel the need to make sure my baseboards are dust free and everything sparkles. Which is hard with 3 young kids to "help".
So, on my to do list is place orders, wipe baseboards, and scrub toilets. Anyone wanna help?!?!

Things I would do if I were a billionaire:
I'd buy a big ole house. Or 5.
Buy my parents a beautiful house on land in Kentucky.
Tithe.
Shop.
Travel.
Get laser hair removal so I never have to shave again.
Eat.
And donate to my favorite charities.
(but not in this order, I'd clearly have the hair removal done before I traveled)

Three of my bad habits:
Not drinking enough water and drinking too many Dr. Peppers
Not excercising
I hate doing the dishes so I let Joseph take care of that.

Five places I've lived:
Kentucky
San Antonio, TX
Leon Valley, TX
Austin, TX
Leander, TX

Five jobs I’ve had:
Waitress
New employee trainer and admin
Leasing Consultant
Chauffer, chef, maid, teacher, disciplinary, etc (aka Mom)
Photographer

People I want to know more about (a nice way of saying TAG!):
Robin DePaula
Megan Franks
Jennifer Adams
Jodie Minniear
Rebecca Tyler

Goodbye Control Freak!

2008-04-30T14:40:00.000-07:00

Hi, my name is Bethany and I am a control freak. No doubt about it. I'm a planner, I like to know what's going to happen, have it all laid out in my mind. I can definitely be spontaneous when there isn't anything going on. But for the most part, I like a plan. So, when Joseph called me last Tuesday and said he'd be off Wednesday through Monday I was SO excited. But suddenly my mind started to race. He's going through a company sell right now, so we had planned time off but couldn't plan anything because we weren't sure what the good ole job status would be. So, we began to think of what we could do. And it turned out to be an amazing 6 days with him home. By Monday, we were fresh out of ideas and worn out. But we really had an amazing time together! We went to the Austin Zoo, Sea World, LOTS of shopping, LOTS of eating. It was fantastic, and just what we needed! ;o) So, here's a few (or a ton) snapshots (yes, the control freak even used her camera as a mommy and not a photographer) from our mini family vacation (aka when I said goodbye to the control freak)!

Holy turtle mouth!

This is my new friend, Yurtle. He's a turtle. And I was a little on the obsessed side. Me + Yurtle = Love (and 2 billion pictures)

Then I saw a familiar face. Joseph is that you?!?! Oh, sorry. HAHA ok, I kill me. Love you honey bunny. ;o)

SHAMU!!!! My children now adore this creature. And I thought he was pretty fantastic too. I have a bunch more to share tomorrow of Sea World.

Ew. That's all I got.

When I saw this aquarium, this idea immediately popped into my head. Brooklynne loved looking at the fish swimming by, and I really adore this moment we caught with her and I.

Brooklynne says Mommy is #1! lol Or maybe I asked her how many teeth she has. See the cute little spud in there?!?! She JUST got it! And on another note, my baby will be one on May 28th. Can you believe it?!?!

Well, enough said. Poor kid. He will hate me later.

He gave me 1.78 seconds to capture his sweet face! Yay!

It's our first ever BLAM blog tour!!!

2008-04-29T05:53:00.000-07:00

BLAM! (Brilliant Little Adventure-Making) Blog Tour

Do you yearn for a Christian based fiction book geared for younger elementary children?

If so, then check out the Meghan Rose series!

This new series from Standard Publishing introduces Meghan Rose, the bounciest first-grader in the world! Young readers will share Meghan’s adventures, laugh, and learn important life lessons. Each title also includes a bonus section with discussion starters and fun activity ideas.

I am excited to welcome author Lori Z. Scott, joining us today to talk about the newest releases in her Meghan Rose series—Meghan Rose All Dressed Up and Meghan Rose Has a Secret.

Since 2000, Lori has published over fifty short stories, devotions, puzzles, poems, and articles for children, teens, and adults in publications such as Focus on Your Child, MOMSense Magazine, Spirit Led Writer, Pockets, and Devozine. She is the author of Busy Moms’ Devotions to Go and four Meghan Rose titles. In addition, Lori has contributed to over a dozen books including Real Moms, Cup of Comfort Book of Prayers, and 2007 Eppie Award winner InfiniteSpace, Infinite God.

A graduate of Wheaton College, Lori has worked with children for over twenty years, both as a teacher in the classroom and as a volunteer for local churches, museums, and schools. When she’s not busy driving her two children to various church, sporting, and artistic activities, she moonlights as a speaker for women’s groups and schools.

Lori, welcome. Thanks for taking time to be with us today.

My pleasure.

You often introduce yourself as first a mother, then a teacher, and finally a writer. Why is that?

I feel like being a mother is my highest calling in life. And that means I’m a caregiver, nurse, tutor, cheerleader, counselor, transportation expert, and nutritionist. Doing all those mommy things is a bit like filling a jar jam-packed with marbles. I pursue my own interests in the empty spaces around those marbles because being a mommy trumps all.

I call myself a teacher second because working with kids has been such a huge part of my life. Just as God gifts different people for different tasks, I feel like God has given me a special ability to understand and work with children. Or maybe I’m just not ready to give up playing and comics yet.

I call myself a writer last because I often feel like writing too much fun—and pays too little—to be a real job. But then again, writing is another interest in my life I have felt called to pursue. God blessed me there too. When I decided to start writing, my first submission won second place in a science fiction writing contest. My second submission won MOPS International story writing contest.

I guess what I want moms to realize is, it’s okay to put the mommy part of our lives first and to trust that God will still bless, fulfill, and lead us in other areas as well.

Why would parents like your series?

A good question—one that I have to answer from my own experience. When my daughter was in first grade, her teacher started reading the Junie B. Jones books in class. Since Meghan liked them, I picked up a few copies.

Well, I enjoyed the humor in those books, but had to edit out some of the grammar slips, name calling and attitudes. I thought there had to be an alternative choice—a book that was just as funny, but also had a good take-away value. I scoured the Christian bookstores. I couldn’t find any fiction for that age group, only devotional books and Bible stories.

When I asked about it, bookstore owners often commented that they wished they could offer such a book. In fact, they’d had numerous parents come to the store, all asking the same thing: Do you have a fiction book my young child will enjoy reading? And, like them, I walked away empty handed.

So I wrote the book I couldn’t find—a book for my daughter AND for all those other mothers just like me. I put in everything she wanted—an interesting story filled with giggles and characters worth rooting for—and everything I wanted—good moral values (but with nothing preachy about the story at all). And because I don’t believe I’m alone in those desires, I’m convinced other parents (AND THEIR KIDS!!!) will like the series too.

Why did you include discussion questions and activities at the end of each book?

That’s the teacher part of me flaring up big time! LOL. But seriously, how many times have you as a mother read a book and thought, “There’s a good lesson in here” but didn’t know how to draw your child into a discussion about it? I remember reading Where the Red Fern Grows with my daughter and wanting to talk about the tender topic of death that book touches on. Since I didn’t know where to start, I couldn’t fully take advantage of that teachable moment. (Instead we both just cried all the way through the last few chapters.)

That’s why I included questions for parents or teachers to use after they read the story, so they can capitalize on the book’s underlying message. (Although I hope people laugh through the last few chapters of Meghan Rose instead of cry!)

And the activities are all for the kids. They love extending the story experience by creating their own volcanoes or whatever. I also put a ton of other ideas for parents and kids on my website under the BLAM (Brilliant Little Activities to Make) link.

So each book has an underlying message? Tell us about that.

As I mentioned, I wanted the stories to do more than entertain. I wanted them to have takeaway value. Each book’s message is very subtle but still evident throughout the book. While Meghan Rose on Stage! talks about discovering your talents, it’s ultimately about friendship. Meghan Rose Has Ants in Her Pants explores the idea of patience—a difficult area for most kids to deal with. The newest two books—Meghan Rose All Dressed Up and Meghan Rose Has a Secret—address inner beauty and kind words. But again, none of it is preachy. It’s heavy on the humor and very, VERY light on the lesson…yet neither quality is lost on the child.

Are the books just for girls?

Not at all! One mother of two boys emailed me about how much her sons enjoyed reading them with her. She said they could hardly read for laughing so hard—they were all HOWLING!! The youngest one loved it so much he started sleeping with the first book under his pillow at night.
In fact, the comment I hear most from people who read the books is, “I laughed out loud.” The second comment I hear most often is about how much kids (and parents) like the discussion questions and activities. How can all that just be for girls?

Where do you get the inspiration for the humorous parts of the books?

Most of that comes from my upbringing. My dad was always coming up with puns and jokes. He made them up on the spot, and they were hilarious! I can’t tell you how many hours we spent laughing around the dinner table. I think dad influenced all my sisters. In fact, one of my sisters was part of an improvisational comedy team. (She’s also a pastor’s wife—it’s a fun combination.)
I also grew up on a steady diet of comic books. Peanuts and Garfield were my favorites, and later Calvin and Hobbes. And we’d also watch comedy on television, especially The Carol Brunette Show.

That said, some of my inspiration just comes from everyday life. My kids crack me up. They both have a great sense of humor.

The main character in the Meghan Rose series shares your daughter’s name. Why is that?

She was the foundational basis for the character. When I started the series, I needed someone likable, outrageous, clever, spunky, and sensitive all rolled into one. Well, that’s my Meghan. And since I originally wrote the books just for her, I simply used her name. You’ll also see the names of other people I’ve met, although the character they’re named for is totally fiction. Mrs. Arnold, for example, was the name of Meghan’s real first grade teacher. But she’s not like the Mrs. Arnold in the book.

Are any of the characters like you?

I think maybe there’s a little bit of me in all of them. Certainly a lot of me is reflected in the teacher, Mrs. Arnold. Then Ryan shows the jokester side of me, Kayla has the goofy side, Lynette has the rule-following, show-off side, and Meghan’s Mom has the practical side. The Meghan character herself is about 80 percent of the “real” Meghan, 10 percent of me and my creative musings, and 10 percent total fiction.

Do you ever visit schools to talk about the books?

Yes! I’ve visited several schools and talked about the steps a writer goes through to get from idea to published book. I’ve also shared ways to boost everyday creativity and develop writing ideas. All three presentations seem to fire up everyone, even the reluctant writers. Kids tell me that what they enjoy most about the time we spend together is learning my two-handed drawing trick and discovering how to write their own jokes.

As a teacher, I value school visits. I think it’s important to inspire and encourage all children…to help them see opportunities and possibilities. As a mom, I can’t help seeing my own children reflected in the faces I meet. That gives me extra incentive to make kids want to reach their dreams, whatever they might be.

Can you share one idea for mothers to help their children be more creative?

Sure. Hmmm. Hard to pick one. I guess one great idea is to encourage your children to be involved with artistic endeavors. That can include a whole variety of options, like drawing, painting, or making things out of shoe boxes. Children can listen to or dance to music. Or make their own music. They can dress up and put on a show for family or friends, or memorize a silly poem. And it should be fun, not work.

Where can readers learn more about you and the Meghan Rose books?

They can visit my web site. My award-winning illustrator, Stacy Curtis, designed it. It offers jokes, puzzles, and activities for kids and great ideas for teacher and parents (on Mrs. Arnold’s BLAM page). It also introduces the books and characters, provides links to book reviews, and gives ordering information. I posted a retold fairy tale reader’s theater that gives visitors a good feel for the style of humor found in the books in my Little Red Riding Hood reader's theater.
You can also purchase a copy of Meghan Rose on Stage!, Meghan Rose Has Ants in Her Pants, Meghan Rose All Dressed Up, andMeghan Rose Has a Secret by clicking on the titles here.

That sounds great. Well, thank you for your time!

Thank you for letting me visit with you.

Sneak Peek!

2008-04-23T07:32:00.001-07:00

You know what I love? A lovely family, and this family is just about as great as it gets! It was such a fun session, and with kids and parents this great it makes my "job" that much easier and FUN!!! Seriously, the kids were so good it made me want to trade children. lol Ok, maybe not - but these kiddos were so good and super photogenic! Yay me!!! We had such a great time, and so many amazing photos for this family to cherish. Here are just a quick few to keep Mom till the rest are ready. Enjoy, Momma!

My beautiful sister.

2008-04-21T15:02:00.001-07:00

My sister came out recently for a fun photoshoot just for her. Seems her 30s are suiting her well, and she wanted to show it off! I can't blame her really. ;o) She's looking pretty darn good! She's my older sister, and I lurve her much. We are so different and still so alike, she's got blue eyes I've got brown. She's almost 6 foot tall, I got the short end of that stick FOR SURE. But I'm still younger. So there. ;o) I had a great time taking her photos, these are so up my alley. I'd love to do more like this, any ladies need a session just for you?!?! Thanks for coming out sister, it was so much fun.

Happy Birthday my sweet baby boy....

2008-04-15T20:35:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow my sweet little man will be turning a big 3 years old! I can't believe he is getting to be such a big boy. :o) We celebrated his birthday last Sunday with a few of our close friends, and we had the great pleasure of celebrating at his fire station! It was amazing fun, the firemen and volunteers were amazing. And I want to have my birthday party there. ;o) It was so fascinating, and the firemen were amazingly patient and so willing to teach us all the amazing details of their work. It was by far my favorite birthday party ever! I have a ton more pictures, but I won't bore you so here are a few favs. I even made an appearance in a few. GASP. lol Have a great night. And Happy Birthday, Mason. I love you more than you will ever know or imagine. I'm proud and blessed to be your Mommy.

He wasn't so keen on being up in the driver seat. ;o)

My boys.

This is my beautiful mommy and my beautiful girl. I lurve this pic.

It's me and Mason. Ew.

Some of the gang, not everyone was into the mascot. lol

2008-04-12T20:19:00.000-07:00

Holy smokes, has it really been like a week and a half since my last update?!?! Time flies when you're having fun. Or busy with 3 kids, have a business that is amazingly busy, a house to maintain, being a chauffer, house cleaner, bill payer, oh whatever I could go on for ages. I'm sure you all know how that feels. lol Life just doesn't ever stop does it?!?! We have our big meeting on Monday with Mason's team that has been working to diagnose him for the school. They have a whole team made up of different professionals and specialists that preform their own evaluation, the state doesn't care if you come in with a diagnosis, they have to prove there really is a need so you don't take the place of a child who needs it. So, keep us in your thoughts - it's bound to be an emotional rollercoaster of a day. ;o) Anyways, on to this little cutie! This is A, you've met her before. She's been a client of mine now since I first started. She's the one who called her mom a tramp last time. lol She's got the BEST imagination. It reminds me to stop for a minute and enjoy the small things. This time she was Tommy from Rugrats, we just had the best time playing. One of my favorite little ones to photograph! Enjoy!!!

Confessions of a CF Husband

2008-04-02T18:14:00.000-07:00

http://cfhusband.blogspot.com/

Have you seen this blog yet? I found it just a week or so ago while I was visiting another photographer's site. (She's got triplets, and I've enjoyed watching them grow from belly to almost a year!) Anyways, so she recently posted about a blog that is making national news. It is the story of a wonderful family, fighting to help their premature baby thrive, and waiting for a new set of lungs for the mom who suffers from Cystic Fibrosis. While they were waiting for her lung transplant, they discovered Tricia was miraculously pregnant. And against doctors wishes, they went forward with the pregnancy. Their sweet little girl was born 12 weeks ago, at just 24 weeks gestation. She's just beautiful. While she is growing daily in the NICU, Tricia is in the same hospital awaiting a new set of lungs. It's a beautiful, inspiring, moving story - and it appears tonight is a new beginning for their family. Tricia is in the OR getting ready for her double lung transplant! Please take a second to visit their blog, and leave a comment to let them know how many of us are praying. Please also pray for the family of the donor, and the doctors through this lengthy operation. Many, many prayers for you guys! This is such exciting news!

Sneak Peek!

2008-04-01T16:30:00.000-07:00

This little guy is ridiculously handsome, so I had to share! Meet Mr. N, he is handsome, he is smart, he is so much fun!!! This was his 2nd session, has been in the works for quite some time now! I had the best time photographing this little guy last week, he was SO good. He worked that camera! Amazing what a kid will do for a bribe of playing on the playground! ;o) Don't worry, mom, the rest are not too far behind.

Ten things....

2008-04-01T15:02:00.000-07:00

I found this excerpt from a book by Ellen Notbohm, Ten Things Every Child With Autism Wishes You Knew, posted on a photographer friend's blog and thought it was phenomenal. I thought I would pass it on, as it may help in understanding how Mason, and any child with autism, is wired and how best to interact with him. It really fits him to a "T", and is so important to understand. It is important to know that Mason is not "retarded", unable, disabled, or dumb. He is differently abled, due to autism. But it is important to know that many children with autism are just the opposite. Many are in fact considered to be of brilliant mind, they like all of us, are just wired different.

On another note, this is Mason's 2nd week of evaluation with the Leander Preschool Program for Children with Disabilities. His first week went wonderful! This week is the big testing, yesterday was our parent interview with the diagnostic team. He is coming out of the "honeymoon" period, so they can now start to get a clear picture of how Mason works. Which will help them determine the best plan for his progress. He absolutely loves it, and is eager to go to school everyday. It's made the transition for Joseph and I all the easier. Thank you to all that have called, emailed and sent support for us. It was a tough week, but we are adjusting and thankful to have such amazing support. Thanks for taking the time to read this!

Here are ten things every child with autism wishes you knew:

1. I am first and foremost a child. I have autism. I am not primarily “autistic.” My autism is only one aspect of my total character. It does not define me as a person. Are you a person with thoughts, feelings and many talents, or are you just fat (overweight), myopic (wear glasses) or klutzy (uncoordinated, not good at sports)? Those may be things that I see first when I meet you, but they are not necessarily what you are all about.

As an adult, you have some control over how you define yourself. If you want to single out a single characteristic, you can make that known. As a child, I am still unfolding. Neither you nor I yet know what I may be capable of. Defining me by one characteristic runs the danger of setting up an expectation that may be too low. And if I get a sense that you don’t think I “can do it,” my natural response will be: Why try?

2. My sensory perceptions are disordered. Sensory integration may be the most difficult aspect of autism to understand, but it is arguably the most critical. This means that the ordinary sights, sounds, smells, tastes and touches of everyday that you may not even notice can be downright painful for me. The very environment in which I have to live often seems hostile. I may appear withdrawn or belligerent to you but I am really just trying to defend myself. Here is why a “simple” trip to the grocery store may be hell for me:

My hearing may be hyper-acute. Dozens of people are talking at once. The loudspeaker booms today’s special. Musak whines from the sound system. Cash registers beep and cough, a coffee grinder is chugging. The meat cutter screeches, babies wail, carts creak, the fluorescent lighting hums. My brain can’t filter all the input and I’m in overload!

My sense of smell may be highly sensitive. The fish at the meat counter isn’t quite fresh, the guy standing next to us hasn’t showered today, the deli is handing out sausage samples, the baby in line ahead of us has a poopy diaper, they’re mopping up pickles on aisle 3 with ammonia….I can’t sort it all out. I am dangerously nauseated.

Because I am visually oriented (see more on this below), this may be my first sense to become overstimulated. The fluorescent light is not only too bright, it buzzes and hums. The room seems to pulsate and it hurts my eyes. The pulsating light bounces off everything and distorts what I am seeing -- the space seems to be constantly changing. There’s glare from windows, too many items for me to be able to focus (I may compensate with "tunnel vision"), moving fans on the ceiling, so many bodies in constant motion. All this affects my vestibular and proprioceptive senses, and now I can’t even tell where my body is in space.

3. Please remember to distinguish between won’t (I choose not to) and can’t (I am not able to).

Receptive and expressive language and vocabulary can be major challenges for me. It isn’t that I don’t listen to instructions. It’s that I can’t understand you. When you call to me from across the room, this is what I hear: “*&^%$#@, Billy. #$%^*&^%$&*………” Instead, come speak directly to me in plain words: “Please put your book in your desk, Billy. It’s time to go to lunch.” This tells me what you want me to do and what is going to happen next. Now it is much easier for me to comply.

4. I am a concrete thinker. This means I interpret language very literally. It’s very confusing for me when you say, “Hold your horses, cowboy!” when what you really mean is “Please stop running.” Don’t tell me something is a “piece of cake” when there is no dessert in sight and what you really mean is “this will be easy for you to do.” When you say “It’s pouring cats and dogs,” I see pets coming out of a pitcher. Please just tell me “It’s raining very hard.”

Idioms, puns, nuances, double entendres, inference, metaphors, allusions and sarcasm are lost on me.

5. Please be patient with my limited vocabulary. It’s hard for me to tell you what I need when I don’t know the words to describe my feelings. I may be hungry, frustrated, frightened or confused but right now those words are beyond my ability to express. Be alert for body language, withdrawal, agitation or other signs that something is wrong.

Or, there’s a flip side to this: I may sound like a “little professor” or movie star, rattling off words or whole scripts well beyond my developmental age. These are messages I have memorized from the world around me to compensate for my language deficits because I know I am expected to respond when spoken to. They may come from books, TV, the speech of other people. It is called “echolalia.” I don’t necessarily understand the context or the terminology I’m using. I just know that it gets me off the hook for coming up with a reply.

6. Because language is so difficult for me, I am very visually oriented. Please show me how to do something rather than just telling me. And please be prepared to show me many times. Lots of consistent repetition helps me learn.

A visual schedule is extremely helpful as I move through my day. Like your day-timer, it relieves me of the stress of having to remember what comes next, makes for smooth transition between activities, helps me manage my time and meet your expectations. Here’s a great website for learning more about visual schedules: www.cesa7.k12.wi.us/sped/autism/structure/str11.htm .

I won’t lose the need for a visual schedule as I get older, but my “level of representation” may change. Before I can read, I need a visual schedule with photographs or simple drawings. As I get older, a combination of words and pictures may work, and later still, just words.

7. Please focus and build on what I can do rather than what I can’t do. Like any other human, I can’t learn in an environment where I’m constantly made to feel that I’m not good enough and that I need “fixing.” Trying anything new when I am almost sure to be met with criticism, however “constructive,” becomes something to be avoided. Look for my strengths and you will find them. There is more than one “right” way to do most things.

8. Please help me with social interactions. It may look like I don’t want to play with the other kids on the playground, but sometimes it’s just that I simply do not know how to start a conversation or enter a play situation. If you can encourage other children to invite me to join them at kickball or shooting baskets, it may be that I’m delighted to be included.

I do best in structured play activities that have a clear beginning and end. I don’t know how to “read” facial expressions, body language or the emotions of others, so I appreciate ongoing coaching in proper social responses. For example, if I laugh when Emily falls off the slide, it’s not that I think it’s funny. It’s that I don’t know the proper response. Teach me to say “Are you OK?”

9. Try to identify what triggers my meltdowns. Meltdowns, blow-ups, tantrums or whatever you want to call them are even more horrid for me than they are for you. They occur because one or more of my senses has gone into overload. If you can figure out why my meltdowns occur, they can be prevented. Keep a log noting times, settings, people, activities. A pattern may emerge.

Try to remember that all behavior is a form of communication. It tells you, when my words cannot, how I perceive something that is happening in my environment.

Parents, keep in mind as well: persistent behavior may have an underlying medical cause. Food allergies and sensitivities, sleep disorders and gastrointestinal problems can all have profound effects on behavior.

10. If you are a family member, please love me unconditionally. Banish thoughts like, “If he would just……” and “Why can’t she…..” You did not fulfill every last expectation your parents had for you and you wouldn’t like being constantly reminded of it. I did not choose to have autism. But remember that it is happening to me, not you. Without your support, my chances of successful, self-reliant adulthood are slim. With your support and guidance, the possibilities are broader than you might think. I promise you – I am worth it.

And finally, three words: Patience. Patience. Patience. Work to view my autism as a different ability rather than a disability. Look past what you may see as limitations and see the gifts autism has given me. It may be true that I’m not good at eye contact or conversation, but have you noticed that I don’t lie, cheat at games, tattle on my classmates or pass judgment on other people? Also true that I probably won’t be the next Michael Jordan. But with my attention to fine detail and capacity for extraordinary focus, I might be the next Einstein. Or Mozart. Or Van Gogh.

They had autism too.

The answer to Alzheimer’s, the enigma of extraterrestrial life -- what future achievements from today’s children with autism, children like me, lie ahead?

All that I might become won’t happen without you as my foundation. Think through some of those societal ‘rules’ and if they don’t make sense for me, let them go. Be my advocate, be my friend, and we’ll see just how far I can go.

Hello Coolness!

2008-03-29T06:57:00.000-07:00

The other evening we took the kiddos out to check out a new park, and on the way we saw these huge parachute looking thingy's in the air. Thingy's....you must really appreciate my technical terminology here. I'm all about teaching the masses, ya know. :oP

So, we drive in search of the flyers of the thingy's and you won't believe how cool this is!!! I have NO idea what it's called, but holy moly coolness! We sat and watched these guys for a bit, then I finally mustered up the nerve to ask if I could be awkward and photograph them. And of course they didn't mind! It was so much fun to watch and photograph, and by golly now I want to try it! These guys were so nice about it all, and looked like they were just having the best time. When I finally put the camera down and got back in the car, Reagan tells me "Wow, those guys have a cool job!". LOL It was really cute. ;o)

Then we finally made our way to the new park I discovered, and just in time too. It was dark in no time at all, but I still managed to capture a couple at sunset. My favorite! Have a great weekend, I am off! It's strange, but so necessary right now!

Wow.

2008-03-26T19:36:00.000-07:00

That's really the only word I've got for how this week has been. First let me start by saying it's been one of the busiest weeks I've had in a long time. Which of course has put me behind in my work. But that's ok, cause I have a session tomorrow then I get 4 whole days off with my hubby and kids and I couldn't be more ready! So, to start I was sick at the start of the week. No good, perfect timing of course - but it's passed fairly quickly. Mason started school, which put a whole new spin on things. Dropping off and picking up 5 days a week now, whereas when they were just doing preschool I only had to leave my house Tuesday's and Thursday's. Now I have to have everyone up and ready to be out the door every morning. Good news is, Mason goes to the later program, so we don't have to be out of here till after 9:30. Then on top of everything else, my site was down. That was out for about a day, which meant I couldn't get any of my regular emails - made for an interested day! THEN, my hubby has been bugging me for 2 months now to get him AT&T Uverse. We have dish, but they came knockin' this week and saved me a phone call - so I made the switch. Silly me though, didn't consider they'd be taking over my house for hours and tear it all apart. Taking care of 3 kids with a crew of 5 men working in every room isn't the easiest of tasks I tell you! Which meant that today while they were redoing everything I had no tv and no internet. And I had to stay out of their way, which meant off the computer. Which of course put me even more behind! I'm tired. *moan*

But, my real reason for posting is not to bore you with the sad details of my out of control week. I'm here to tell you about the amazing time Mason is having! He is doing INCREDIBLE!!! Let me just say, that I shouldn't be surprised. I put my faith where it needed to be, and we have been provided for in this situation more than I could ever imagine. On Tuesday we had to drop Reagan off at preschool first, and it confused Mason. He thought he had to go back to the old school and as soon as he saw it he lost it. It took him a bit to figure out he didn't have to stay, but as soon as we left he was bouncing around so excited to go to the new school! They happened to have a field trip today, which totally freaked me out only being his 3rd day, and he'd be on a bus(in a carseat). But he did so good, he loved the farm, totally loved the bus, it was great! He's been saying "fun" everytime we talk about school, and we've heard about the "piddies" (piggies) from the farm all day. It has made the transition for me so much easier. I am so happy he is in a safe, fun place he can just be himself in. Warms my little heart. Thank you so much for all the incredible support. There is no way I can ever explain how it feels to have such amazing friends that are just here. Really, thank you. Lots of love folks! I'm off to have a meeting with my pillow. :oP

Site and Email are down....

2008-03-25T14:42:00.001-07:00

No clue why the site is down, but with the site being down I am also not getting my email. In 2 years of business I've never had my site down, so I am in panic mode! But I've sent in a support ticket and hope to have it resolved as soon as possible. In the meantime, if you need to email me, please do so at bella_amadis@sbcglobal.net

Thanks!

We made it through the first day!

2008-03-24T16:03:00.000-07:00

Well, for as much as I dreaded this day - it went so much smoother than I could have ever hoped for. I just have a quick second, but wanted to give a quick update. Mason did so good today! Children with Autism, or spectrum disorders are VERY routine oriented, and he has to stick to the norm. Anything off our normal routine will throw him off balance and make for a not so fun time. But he did so well. We spent the last few days driving him by his new school, talking about the "big boy school", and how much fun it would be. So, we really played it up for him. He did well when we got there, told us bye like nothing. He was happy to see us when I got there to pick him up, so all in all it was a good time for him. And he's still fairly happy at the moment which is good for a kid who missed a nap. Mama on the other hand, is exhausted. I'll be back soon with more on the school process. I can't think.

Just remember to breathe, Bethany.

2008-03-21T12:33:00.000-07:00

*warning: the following is me being a big fat ball of emotions, AKA stupid girl. read my nonsense at your own risk*

Monday is a big day for us, a big day that I am neither ready for or happy about. It is such a bittersweet step in our lives, and it's really a lot of mixed emotions. On Monday, Mason will start with the local school district in their PPCD (preschool program for children with disabilities, also referred to as an ELE - early learning environment) program. This is the program set forth by the state that takes over when children with disabilities turn 3. ECI (a program he is in now) services children up until 3, making home visits and really catering to the younger child. Now that he is turning 3, he will enter the school district for services. His school days will be 5 days a week from 9:45-1:45. The classroom is amazing, the teacher seemed great. The program is one of the best in this country (who would have known Leander had that! We just got our first grocery store for crying out loud!). It is structured, they learn the way he needs to learn, the teacher to child ratio is amazing, it's a brand new school with brand new everything, I could go on and on about all of the good things about this program. It's awesome, and exciting. And I know it's a program and environment that will help Mason blossom!

So, why does it make me sick to my stomach? My mind knows without a shadow of a doubt that this is what Mason needs. There are so many different ways to handle and treat these situations, and none are wrong. It's really a matter of what each family feels is right for them. And my mind knows this is what is right for Mason. I am not educated or trained to teach a child with special needs. I am of course the expert on Mason, but 'getting' how he works doesn't mean I know how to make everything work for him. And I just want to know at the end of the day that I have done everything I can to help him. I know he will blossom and grow. We have seen AMAZING improvements in Mason in the short time that ECI has been coming out. We went from a child that was only saying one word sentences, to a child that doesn't stop talking. Does it always make sense? No, but he is talking and trying and that is a miracle in itself right now. While my mind knows this will be wonderful for him, my heart aches. It is a reminder that this is real. This is our life, and this is what we have to do. Everyday I see Pervasive Developmental Disorder and Sensory Integration Disorder and Auditory Processing Disorder, but I don't think of it as a disability. I see an amazing little boy, who is brilliant, sweet, genuine, pure, giving, loving, and just plain beautiful. I see a miracle. I have been mighty successful about hiding from the labels, hiding from the disability. But sending my son off to special needs class, just puts a big fat spotlight on that which I hide from. It is really still so fresh, just a month ago we got our diagnosis and just 7 months ago we were ignorant to this. And every bit of my heart says, "What do you mean your 3 year old is headed off to an elementary school?!?!". This ISN'T RIGHT. This isn't supposed to happen, this shouldn't be happening to children. And it shouldn't be happening to mine! I hate it. Every bit of it. And as amazing and beautiful as my child is, I know there is a part of him locked inside and I just want him OUT. I feel like this is what we need to do to help his future, but it is just so hard. Lord, please guide me through this. I cannot do this alone.

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Phillipians 4:6-7

Sneak Peek!

2008-03-19T17:18:00.000-07:00

We had another fun and successful weekend shooting at San Gabriel Park in G-town. This family has been coming to me for about 2 years, have added a new little one, and they seriously have the most beautiful children! I had a great time guys, and will have the rest up soon!

It's Q&A Monday!

2008-03-17T07:13:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone who emailed all of the wonderful questions! I like to talk, and I like to answer questions. I'm an open book, so this is fun stuff for me! Plus, if I'm answering your questions - I don't have to figure out what to write on my own. lol I am a tad sick, so my head is in a FOG. Yikes! So, here we go with Q&A Monday!

How long have you known and been married to your husband?
Joseph and I have known each other for 9 years now, been married for 7 1/2. We married really young, I was 20 and he was 21. Everyone thought we were crazy to marry so young, but we were crazy in love and it was just right. We have a great foundation, with God as our cornerstone - we are going strong everyday! He is my BFF and I am truly the most blessed woman in the world. Just don't let him read this or he'll get a big head. :oP Oh and another fun and random fact is we married on 11/11/00, so on 11/11/11 we will celebrate our 11th anniversary. We didn't actually plan it that way.

Are you done having children?
Yes! lol We have 3 beautiful babies, and that's plenty for me. I don't have beautiful pregnancies, they really take a toll on my body. So, I will not be bearing any more children. We have talked about adopting later on, in at least 4 years or so. But it's really just a thought, and who knows where we'll be in 4 years. Actually we got to talking about it when Joseph laid it on me as a movie began. You know, just as the previews were ending he leaned over and said "So, do you want to adopt a baby?" and I accidentally yelled "WHAT?" of course just as the theater fell quiet. lol It was classic. And I suddenly had no appetite for popcorn.

What's your IQ? LOL, thanks Megan but they say it's too much to measure. HAHA! HA.

If money were no object, where would you go on vacation?
Oh gosh, if money were no object I'd just go vacation hopping! I'd probably start in St. Thomas (my mom says it's amazing), I'd travel Europe, and likely end with a long visit in Australia! Oh, and I think we'd have to work Disney in there somehow, for the kids of course.

What kind of camera would you have?
Being a Nikon girl, I'd definitely have the D3.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/518490-REG/Nikon_25434_D3_SLR_Digital_Camera.html
But I just got the D300, and we're in love. It's an amazing camera!
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/518489-REG/Nikon_25432_D300_SLR_Digital_Camera.html

I know you are pretty much self taught- what are your favorite photography books, websites, or other resources?
The internet is an amazing resource! I am completely self taught, but was lucky enough to have people via internet that helped me find my way. Scott Kelby books would be a huge recommendation, there just aren't any better books out there!

Is it hard to become a professional photographer, if I have a good camera can I make it to where you are?
Great question! But hard to answer! lol Yes, it is and can be hard to become a professional photographer. In this industry we many times see people who get the fancy equipment and think poof you are instant photographer. And it's just not the case. A real pro can get any kind of camera, and still make amazing art. I like to compare it to my baking. lol I can't bake to save my life, I'm not a recipe follower. I don't like to measure, read directions, follow rules. And of course if I try to bake it is disasterous. I can't go out and buy all the best baking supplies, and equipment and call myself a pastry chef. It's talent, not equipment. It's the same as any art, if you can't paint you can't go buy an easel and canvas and call yourself a painter. I can't get tools and expect to walk into a dealership to become a mechanic. And no matter what if you don't have it, it just doesn't work. Not everyone is meant to be a professional photographer, and the equipment is really just a small detail. ;o)

Where do you want to see your business go?
You know, I am really happy with where we are now. Where we will go depends on so many different things. I have as much as I can handle at the moment, so this is where I want to be now. I started this journey thinking this would be something to do every now and then. I didn't actually anticipate being booked 6-8 weeks in advance, or have waiting lists! Since now both boys will be in school I will have weekday sessions available here and there. But really, I am still first and foremost a mommy and that takes priority. We added weddings to our services this year, so we are excited about the possibilities that will bring. And long term, we'd like to have a dedicated studio space and having as much fun or more as we do now. We take a very fun, laid back approach to this all. It helps me maintain sanity and keeps this fun without feeling like that 3 letter word I hate (JOB).

When is your birthday, and how old will you be?
My birthday is August 23rd, 1980. Yep, I said it - I am technically an 80s baby. You can lift your chins off the floor, cause I know most people don't realize I am only 27! :oP So we did everything young. lol

When you say Mason is special needs, what exactly does that mean?
This post should help you better understand what is going on with Mason. http://bellaamadis.blogspot.com/2008/01/sharing-my-full-plate.html We also finally got his formal diagnosis in February, Mason has PDD-NOS (pervasive developmental disorder, not otherwise specified). Along with the Sensory Integration and Auditory Processing Disorder for grins. ;o)
Basically, it's easiest to just say he is high functioning autism. He is on the spectrum of autism, but many people have one look for autism stuck in their heads. And the reality is, autism doesn't look one particular way. It isn't the same for every child, it manifests in so many different ways. And we feel so blessed to have a child like Mason, he reminds us everyday to appreciate the little things and not to sweat the small stuff. And it has taught me patience, I used to get annoyed out and about with children having a fit. Now I'm one of those mom's at times, and it has helped me to realize you don't know the circumstances. In ours, Mason can't help it. He is led by emotion, it's not misbehaving - it's just frustrating I'm sure to not be understood.

Well, folks there are more questions I didn't get to but am saving for Part 2 of Q&A Monday coming soon! Thanks for stopping by to read my ramble!

Sneak Peek!

2008-03-13T14:39:00.000-07:00

Meet the O Family! I have had the great pleasure of photographing this beautiful family for almost 2 years now. Actually the little man was 8 weeks old when they came for the first time, and boy has he grown! We did their Valentine's pics last month that were TOO cute. This time we headed outdoors for a little family fun!

Aren't they too cute?!?!

This was the only look she was willing to give up. It was a tad cool, so Miss R said no paparazzi please. lol

I would make the same face if I saw those comin' at me. :oP

Oh a boy and his mommy, nothing sweeter.

Well, hellooooooo blue eyes! Lord can this kid give a look!

Told you their beautiful girl wasn't having it. lol We're missing one, but beautiful none the less!

It was great fun guys! I'll have the rest of them up very soon. :o)

I love this weather.

2008-03-12T19:44:00.000-07:00

Cause Lord have mercy, the sky at sunset is to die for! The good Lord knows what He's doin' when He paints these beauties. ;o) We took the kids to the park this evening for a picnic and some playtime. I was thankful to get out of the house. Even with it being Spring Break I haven't had anytime to do anything. And I had to take Mason to the dr today - he has an ear infection! It's been a fun weak to say the least. lol But my good friend Jenny reminded me it's almost over! lol If I wasn't swamped with work, and we didn't have germs, we'd be out enjoying it more! And exciting news, Joseph is hard at work being mentored by yours truly. It's really fun to watch him learn and soak it all up! Hopefully we'll have a 2nd shooter for weddings and events in no time! :o) Here are a few from our evening, and one is by Mr. Menchaca!

I love my boys. :o) This melts my ever lovin' heart.

Do you see how crazy blue the sky was??? lol

This is by my wonderful husband! I did the processing, but I'll be posting his version later too!

And of course, as soon as we leave the sky gets even more beautiful!

Smurf?

2008-03-08T06:04:00.000-08:00

I know you are all wondering what my child got himself into in the image below. But in order to find that out, you have to hear the whole story. Cause it's interesting. ;o)Yesterday morning we had Mason's social worker/developmental therapist coming to visit for therapy. I dilly dallied around in the morning, and about 45 minutes before she was set to arrive I figured it was time to hop in the shower. I would have 45 minutes to shower, dress myself and the boys, feed the baby, and pick up any last minute messes they made. Time would be tight, but manageable. I get in the shower, get out - things are going well! Then I come out to realize the boys have had their way with my living room. Toys all over the place. So, I instruct them to pick up as I go get dressed. A few minutes later I hear the baby start to wake from her nap. Just as I get dressed so I can grab Brooklynne, Mason walks into my bathroom holding out his hands saying "EEWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW". He had a poopy diaper. And poopy hands. Cause apparently he wanted to play in his dirty diaper. Every bit of me wanted to hide from him and hope it would magically be fixed. lol So, I grab the baby then throw him in the bath. Get myself dressed, have Reagan pick up, nurse the baby, wash the poopy head, get Reagan dressed, dry off the poopy head, dress the poopy head, comb the poopy head's hair....just in time for there to be a knock at the door. Lord have mercy. So, we have therapy and play with markers. The fun of markers starts then, but carries on for quite a while. And well, Mason isn't always the most careful with a marker. So, the image below is an example of markers gone bad. Very, very bad. And for the record, "washable markers".....not so washable. They still stain skin people! So, today he's a lighter smurf. But a smurf none the less.

But wait....there's more. Oh yes, my day didn't end there!!! Fastforward to the evening, we are preparing to have friends over for dinner. Daddy gets home, brings in the groceries. I had him buy diaper rash cream as the little man has a bit o' red on his you know whats. So, Daddy sets the cream on the coffee table, I am getting ready. Daddy comes to chat with me for about 3 minutes, goes back out to the living room. And the Menchaca's first member of the Blue Man Group, is now creamy white. You got it, he painted himself in Desitin. Yep. He did. All this happened in one day, and I myself can't believe it. lol Daddy brought him in and I bathed him again (again rushing before the door bell rings). And can I just tell you that Desitin doesn't come off easily either?!?! Oh, and in case you are wondering - it doesn't remove marker either. So, his arms, hands, and face were painted white. It was the most hysterical thing I've ever seen and at that point I could only laugh. So, that's the story of my day. A day in the life of one mom vs. 3 crazy kids. And next week is Spring Break. Pray for me. A lot. And if you don't hear from me, call the cops and tell them it's possible my children have locked me in the closet. Lord help me. Amen.

Oh, and just to answer a question....

2008-03-07T14:45:00.000-08:00

So, you don't have to ask what a day in my life is like - let's just leave you with these images. They say it all.

It's time for Q & A.

2008-03-07T14:06:00.000-08:00

Welcome to our first edition of Ask the Photographer (say that in your best game show host voice, then imagine cheesy game show music in the background)! So, the name of the game is ask anything you want! No holding back on me now. ;o) You can ask your questions via email or by posting them here as a comment. BTW, Ask the Photographer is a boring name, so we really could use a more creative, fun game show name here.

Want to know about my equipment? Just ask.
Want to know how long I've been married? Just ask.
Want to know how I got started? Just ask.
Want to know about my favorite photoshop tools? Just ask!
Want to know what my plans in the next year are? Just ask, though I don't even know.
Want to know how much I weigh? Don't ask. Sheesh. We must set limitations.

PS. We are planning our first ever "Mommy-tographer" workshop for my amazing clients! I am thinking it will either be in April or May, but am still ironing out those details. For my clients that want to take better pics of your kids, email for details and prices! There will only be 10 spots, and they will fill fast! Hope to see you all there!!!

Get the tissue.

2008-03-05T17:29:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure if anyone caught the Today show this morning, but I wanted to share this link to a video that is very close to most photographer's. Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep is an organization of photographer's that donate their time and talent for bereavement photography. I have known about NILMDTS for a couple years, but it wasn't until the beginning of the year I started taking steps to joining their organization. I hadn't felt brave enough, or strong enough, or prepared enough before. And think the truth of the matter is I'm still not brave enough, but I don't think anyone can ever be brave or strong when looking at a baby who's life was cut short. It breaks every bit of my heart, and for 2 years I have sat back and watched colleagues and friends take on the task. I have not stepped into the organization with a session yet, but I'm sure my time is coming. I applaud those who have, and pray for each and every one of the families, babies, and volunteers. Now grab the tissue....

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/23481435#23481435

Pictures Galore!

2008-03-03T11:23:00.000-08:00

Howdy! I realized today when I came to post all these images that it had been a couple weeks since my last update! Sorry!!! :o) Things have been very hectic around here, and last week was crunch time trying to get my work finished up and my house scrubbed top to bottom in preparation for the big weekend! My amazing, and talented photographer friend Robin DePaula was coming in town to photograph my little sister's wedding. Robin arrived on Friday, and I don't think we stopped moving till she left. It was a busy weekend, but my goodness we had a blast! While she was here we managed to get in some amazing photos (of course!). I bugged Robin to do our family session, and I am eagerly anticipating those! Now I know how you all feel when I am working on your fab images! lol I also got the opportunity to take images of Robin for her website, she is so photogenic and just beautiful! Here's a peak of our crazy weekend......

Brooklynne loved Robin, and Robin loved Brooklynne. I had to check her bag to make sure she didn't try to pack my baby. lol

Well, hello beautiful!

I like to call this one "Say NO to drugs, and Canon!" lol ;oP

Lord have mercy was Robin beautiful, and was such a doll to boot!

This is pretty much what we did all weekend. lol We had a blast! Even with almost blowing up my studio and burning down my house, it was still loads of fun. But that's a story for later.

We even got in some of me and the hubster. Robin was amazing, and geez to these pictures ROCK!

Oh yes, sorry. We had a great time at the wedding, it was beautiful and my sister made a gorgeous bride! Congrats guys!!!

Lord, help them.

2008-02-12T10:18:00.000-08:00

Cause with a baby girl as beautiful as this one is, they are gonna need all the help they can get. :o) Meet Baby K. She is a doll, she is beautiful in every way. Did you see those eyes? They are probably the most beautiful eyes I've ever photographed. Baby K loves her mommy and daddy (a lot!), and her doggie Zoe (the camera hog). And she makes the cutest baby girl noises ever, which sound just like Brooklynne's baby girl noises. So, I know they are the cutest. We met at the park for this fun session, and this family is just the sweetest ever. We had such a great time, and they forgot I was there and just enjoyed each other. It was awesome. Thank you guys so much for letting me capture a moment in your lives. And don't worry, the rest of your session is almost done!

WAIIIIIIIIIIIT!

2008-02-05T10:35:00.000-08:00

I just checked and we ARE LIVE!!!!! I may be having some email troubles, so please CC any communication to bella_amadis@sbcglobal.net. Thanks! Now go take a look!!!

www.bellaamadis.com

New Website!

2008-02-05T10:30:00.000-08:00

Well, helloooooooo! I wanted to give a heads up to everyone that our website may be down here and there over the next day or two. The proofing site will of course be available if you have a session live. But we are finally updating the good ole site! And it's going to be FABULOUS! Be sure to watch here for the announcement for it being live! And if you are wanting to get a session soon, now would be the time. As of February 15th, our prices will be increasing, but if you book a February or March session before the 15th you will receive the current rates. Have a great day!!!

It's recipe time!!!

2008-01-31T18:51:00.000-08:00

We had our psychology appointment today, and a whole lot of chaos before and after. I cried the whole way there, it's easy to put away the reality of it every day. It's just life and we just deal and Mason is amazing. But making that drive, thinking that I was on my way to an appointment I should not be going to, no parent should ever have to go to, really hit me hard. I ended up going to the wrong place, had a hungry baby during the appointment (not great for a nursing mama), had to walk a block downtown from my car to the office with baby and a wild 2 year old. UGH. BUT, we have good news. The psychologist doesn't want to see us again! It's a little discouraging because we still don't have answers, but we know now he does NOT have autism. But just specifically autism. What we suspect is PDD-NOS (pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified) or a learning disability of another sort, and the better news is that children with this CAN catch up. Halleluiah! It was the best waste of my time ever. lol We have to go see a different type of specialist now, a developmentalist. And there is only one in Austin, and she doesn't start with Children's Hospital till 2/8. And thank you all SO very much for the amazing support. I have received so many emails and comments, and I want you all to know how very much it means to me. It's good to know we are not alone. :o)

Ok, so now on to the recipes! Thank you to those who contributed, my mouth was watering. Shame on you for making me miserable with these yummy recipes!

Jalepeno Poppers (a.k.a. Deliciously Fattening Treat)

6 medium sized jalepeno peppers
block of cheddar cheese
uncooked bacon
toothpicks
grill

1. Cut jalepenos in halves & remove seeds.
2. Cut strips of cheddar so that they will fit inside th pepper slices
3. Wrap each pepper piece in bacon, securing with a toothpick.
4. Place peppers on hot grill, cheddar side up. Cook until bacon is browned and cooked through.
5. Eat like you've never heard of Weight Watchers! :)

~~Thank you Megan!~~

Jalapeno cream cheese roll ups

Ingredients required
Package of Tortillas
1 box of cream cheese
2-3 jalapenos seeded and chopped(depends on the size of the japs, if smaller go with 3-4)
1 tsp of lime juice

Let the cream cheese soften and then mix in the lime juice and chopped jalapeno's to where you have a nice spread consistency.

Take the cream cheese mix and spread it on the tortilla almost completely to the edges. Roll it up and complete the remainder of the tortillas. After completed slice up so you have pinwheels.

Serve with Picante sauce

YUM!!

~~Thank you Stacey!!!~~

ITALIAN SAUSAGE AND BEAN SOUP

¾ lb Italian sweet sausage

2 cups beef broth

1 16 oz can tomatoes (petite diced)

1 green bell pepper (diced)

1 onion (diced)

2 cloves garlic, minced

½ tsp Italian seasoning

1 can pork and beans

1 Tbsp parsley

Remove sausage casing, crumble and brown. Add remaining ingredients. Simmer for a couple of hours.

~~Thank you Sandy!!~~

Sharing my full plate

2008-01-30T06:13:00.000-08:00

Well, I figured it was about time to share with all of you the things we have been going through lately. A few months ago, I posted here about how we had a lot on our plates, and were going through a rough time and needed prayers. So, now that we have done the Q & A with all of our family members, I thought I'd share our journey here. This will be lengthy, so make sure you can sit down for a few! ;o)

A few months ago, I was at a session with one of my regular clients. I have been taking portraits of this little girl pretty much since my business opened. She is SUCH a doll. :o) I noticed at this session that she was talking SO well, and I started to talk to the mom about it. She told me about a state program that services children who have any special needs. It can be something as simple as a slight speech delay, as was this girls case, but they also serve children with autism, down syndrome, mental retardation, etc. I asked a ton of questions about the program, mainly out of curiousity at that moment. I'm a talker after all! I left the session and didn't think much about it. A few days later, my client contacted me to offer up the info for the state program and ask if there was a reason I was asking about it. I lied to myself by excusing it as gathering info for someone else. While this was slightly true, it was not someone else that was in the back of my head. It was Mason. Our 2 year old son, he is amazing in every way. He has always been an independent child. Didn't like to cuddle or snuggle, was content to be left alone. When we were around crowds, he would find his way to an empty and quiet space. But he was perfect, in every way. We had always joked, since he was born, that he had middle child syndrome. lol But there was just something "off". So, I decided to call the PRIDE ECI program she referred me to. We scheduled an evaluation, and suddenly the pit in my stomach grew. Was this real? Was I really facing an evaluation for my own son? I kept telling myself, the evaluation is free, and it won't hurt. They'll come out and evaluate Mason and tell me he's fine.

So, they came. And I answered a billion questions, and they said they would need to continue the evaluation. They were going to bring out a Speech Pathologist as well, and it would be a complete evaluation. The day of big evaluation came, and my husband and I answered a million more questions. They watched Mason, talked to us about his behaviors, habbits, strengths, and struggles. Throughout the questioning process, my pit grew larger. As I sat in my living room answering these questions I often never considered, it dawned on me that thinking there wasn't a problem was wrong. See, to us, he's perfect. There's nothing WRONG with him. He's amazing. He's so amazingly handsome, he's sweet, he may be strong willed - but so am I! And at the end of it, they sat down with us to discuss their findings. There was something different. Mason was delayed in every area they evaluated, and I couldn't believe it. The thing is, I KNEW it. I knew it. But hearing it was the biggest blow. There is so much controversy on how you are supposed to "feel" when you are dealt these cards. And I am not here to argue with those emotions, I am just here to tell them as I felt them. It made me sad. Knowing my child would struggle, broke my heart.

They told us Mason scored the following:

Physical Development - 24 months
Speech - 21 months
Cognitive - 19 months

And he was 31 months old at the evaluation.

We sat down and designed a Family Service Plan. The ECI program, in addition to testing, also provides therapy for these children. If you have insurance, they will bill them and you pay nothing. If you do not (which is crazy by the way!), they have you on a sliding scale that is income based that is amazingly cheap even if you make a ton of money! We have wonderful insurance, so we pay nothing. We set Mason up to receive therapy through them once a week, alternating between speech therapy and developmental therapy.

So, here we are months later. Months into treatment, and here is what we know as of late. Mason has a global developmental delay, meaning he shows delays in about every area. He has Sensory Integration, and also an Audio Processing Disorder. We have spent the last months doing independent occupational therapy once a week, as well as speech or developmental therapy once a week. And endless hours spent finding doctors who can assist us in the diagnosis. It's amazing how hard it is to get proper treatment, and find qualified doctors. Harder than it ever should be. It's really sad, especially with the current epidemic of autism we have. And insurance companies, don't make it any easier. OOOOOH no, they make it as hard as you can imagine. But after months of work, I have found what I hope to be a great team of doctors. We meet his psychologist tomorrow morning, she will meet with us to talk about his testing. A psychologist (or developmental pediatrician)is who generally does these types of diagnosis. We will also see Mason's new neurologist next month! We scheduled that appointment in November, so we are SO excited that it's almost here. In March he goes in for his entrance evaluation for the school district. They will determine what type of program he will need. (the ECI program only services children up to age 3, thereafter the school district takes over if you choose.) We already know he will qualify for services, and are excited with the possibilities they have for Mason. The downfall is I will literally go from having 3 kids in the house everyday (but preschool days), to Reagan starting kinder next year and Mason being in the PPCD (preschool program for children with disabilities) likely 5 days a week. Granted Mason's days are half days, but still! What are Brooklynne and I going to do with ourselves?!?! lol

As of now, we don't know the reason behind the sensory integration, global developmental delay, and auditory processing disorder. But we hope to know soon. Life is challenging, and has taken a turn we never expected. But we adore our son, as I mentioned before he is perfect and amazing in every way. He's differently-abled. And we hope that with the treatment he is currently receiving and the findings the doctors have, we will be able to assist him in a successful future. We have a very long road ahead of us, and really don't know what the future holds. We don't know how if he will ever "typically develop". Mason may always struggle with some things, but we are already on the right path to endless possibilities. We are so blessed to have him, he brings such joy to our lives. He is so much fun to be around, and if you've ever met him (as most of you have) his spirit is just amazing to be in the presence of. We are glad we have the cards we were dealt. Sure things could be easier. But this is who he is. And who he is makes me proud, and thankful.

If you've made it this far, bless you for reading. :o) Come back tomorrow, we're posting Super Bowl Recipes!!! Thank you to everyone who's sent me one, but I want more! Send them on over!!!

Sneak Peek!

2008-01-28T15:35:00.001-08:00

I feel so weird to post 3 different times in a 24 hour period. It's like SO against everything I believe in (laziness). But I'm pretty sure if the mama of this little man doesn't get her sneak peek she may show up on my door for one. hehe And really, can you blame her with children this gorgeous?!?! I hope you enjoy this sneak peek mama, there are plenty more beautiful ones coming your way soon!

Super Bowl Recipe Exchange!

2008-01-28T09:46:00.000-08:00

I was taking a look at one of my favorite blogs to read this morning, www.pioneerwoman.com, and the thought for a recipe exchange popped in my lil noggin. If you haven't visited the Pioneer Woman's blog, well you just haven't lived. She is a riot! It's seriously a very important part of my day, every girl needs a little humor in her life. Anyways, I want to post some fun and yummy recipes for everyone in honor of the upcoming ball game. That I won't be watching. But I'll be eating all the good food that goes along with it, that's all I really care about here afterall. :o) SO, if you have a yummy recipe email it to me at bethany@bellaamadis.com! I will be adding them this week!

My little Valentine's

2008-01-27T20:07:00.000-08:00

Have I ever mentioned how much I adore my own children? Of course, there are times I wish I could lock myself in the closet in efforts to get a moment of sanity. :o) But they are cute. And fabulous. And they really are amazing kids. And I have to tell you, I generally don't like themed pictures. But I LOVE Valentine's pictures. They are so lovely, and cute. And I get to make cute little Valentine's for them to take to class. *sigh* I love these.....

And can you believe how big this baby is? She will be 8 months old tomorrow! I CANNOT believe how fast it has flown. And she gets lovelier everyday. She started crawling just before Christmas, about a month ago and boy can she book it. She started pulling up too. But she has no teeth, and little hair. Silly girl. Oh, and yes she had a lolli. It was all for the price of pictures. Bad Mommy. (she loved the sugar - note to self: hide the lollis)

Beautiful Bride...

2008-01-24T18:19:00.000-08:00

And she happens to be my little sister. :o)

My sister, my mom (aka my wonderful assistant at this shoot), and I headed to Dunvegan Keep for her bridals 2 weekends ago. The weather was actually nice, the sun was out, but my sister still froze to death. lol But she survived it, and we came out with some beautiful images! We had a great time, and I was so honored to be a part of this. My wonderful friend, Robin DePaula does (amazing)destination weddings and is coming for her March wedding. And I couldn't be more excited! Did I mention my sister is marrying Smokey Mo's son? That means bbq at the wedding! YUM. I'll be sure to post images of our adventures....and the wedding when the time comes!!!

Oh, and we are having our 2nd annual Valentines mini sessions on February 2nd. I'll be emailing details out tomorrow I hope. Thanks for stopping by!

A word about the contest

2008-01-16T07:50:00.001-08:00

I just received a not so friendly comment regarding the contest end time, saying I had not stuck to my rules. As I mentioned before the contest was expiring in ONE WEEK FROM THE START DATE, at midnight on the 16th, meaning 12 AM....which has come and gone. The start date was the 8th, which one week would have put it to expire on the 15th, I provided all day the 15th. In addition, I also let the contestants know of their image being in the contest before it went live. When that email was sent out, they were notified voting would last one week. And I have to be honest, even with a 3% win, it would have taken a ton of votes to change that with as many were received. This was all meant in fun. We are not competing for a car, a trip....I am a mommy and do the best I can with what I can. It really makes me sad to be attacked over something they misunderstood on a contest meant for fun! I appreciate all the votes, and hope that others can still appreciate the fun this has been.

We have a winner!

2008-01-16T06:46:00.000-08:00

This contest was SO much fun, and I am completely amazed at how many votes came in! It was insane, you guys really don't mess around. :o) It was SUCH a close race, with different images taking the lead at different times. But in the end, image 3 won by just over 3%. They were all such wonderful images!

Congratulations "Baby A"!!!

1st prize - Free Session and a complimentary 8x10 at your next session! (up to $100 value!)

2nd prize - Half off session and complimentary 5x7 at your next session! (up to $54 value!)

3rd prize - $20 off session and complimentary 5x7 at your next session! ($37 value!)

And of course the other 2 will receive a complimentary 5x7 at their next session! Congrats everyone!!! And thanks for voting!

No joking here!

2008-01-10T08:40:00.000-08:00

When I posted this contest, I figured we'd have about one to two hundred total votes. HA. I have been closely watching the voting status over the last day, and as of right now (10:40AM)we have 235 votes!!! And it is a close race. Here are a few details for you all:

Voting will last for one week from the start date, the poll counter expires at Midnight on the 16th. You guys have had no problem whatsoever getting the word out! But I also wanted to mention, I have had several inquiries about sessions from people coming to see the contestant images. As a reminder, if you refer someone to us that has a session, you will receive a complimentary 8x10 at your next session! And those can really add up! And for THIS CONTEST ONLY, if you are a friend of a client who has sent you here to vote and you have a session with us we will also give you an 8x10! This offer is good for sessions booked (just booked, not actually taking place before) now through the expiration of the contest.

And NOW, what you have all been waiting for, the prizes.....

1st prize - Free Session and a complimentary 8x10 at your next session! (up to $100 value!)
2nd prize - Half off session and complimentary 5x7 at your next session! (up to $54 value!)
3rd prize - $20 off session and complimentary 5x7 at your next session! ($37 value!)

And because No ONE is a loser, and these were all so fabulous, the others will receive a complimentary 5x7 at your next session!

Best of '07 - time to vote!

2008-01-08T18:30:00.001-08:00

Well, it took a LOT of digging through images. And a LOT of back and forth with the judges. This was truly a difficult opinion, best left to those who are not connected to any of my clients. I would have chosen them all! But after many days of staring at each image for ever, this is what we have come up with:

Image 1

Image 2

Image 3

Image 4

Image 5

I will be back tomorrow to announce the prizes!

Opinion Polls & Market Research

More sneak peeks!

2008-01-08T17:42:00.000-08:00

Well, it was just a super busy weekend. But we walked away with a ton of great images. :o)

Meet the "S" Family. The oldest boy goes to preschool with Reagan and they are just best buddies. But hello, are these children not gorgeous! They were just fabulous, and funny, and they came away with some excellent images too! Thanks again, Mom, for bringing your sweet family out. It was fun! :o)

Sneak Peek!

2008-01-07T14:12:00.000-08:00

Have you ever seen such a sweet sleeping babe?

Meet Baby T. He came to see me this weekend, my first weekend back since being closed for the holidays. And what a sweet face to come back to. :o) This little boy was just the sweetest baby, so content and cooperative.

His parents were FABULOUS as well, and a joy to work with.

And he is very blessed to have a wonderful big brother who LOVES him. Isn't he ADORABLE?!?!

And he is also blessed with a beautiful smile! Isn't he just sooooo cute?! What a beautiful family. Thanks for coming out guys, it was fun! I am working hard to get the rest to you soon! :o)

First ever Blog CONTEST!!!

2008-01-04T11:18:00.000-08:00

Yeeeehaw! Sorry I got a little excited there, and it seemed appropriate seeing as we are in Texas. :o) You should be excited too! We are having our first ever blog contest! I am going through loads and loads of '07 images, looking for favorites! Everyone's will be considered, but if you have a specific image from your session with me you want considered please email me to let me know! This weekend I will have a panel of anonymous and very qualified judges choose the top 5 images. Then, next week I will be back to post the top 5 of '07 for voting! There will be fabulous prizes to the winner and 2 runners up, to be announced when the top 5 are posted.

p.s. the first person to email me with my baby's first name SPELLED CORRECTLY will receive a FREE session!!!!

MySpace....or yours???

2007-12-31T11:22:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone! I just had a quick second and wanted to come by to invite you all to come check out our new MySpace page! Many of you added me as your friend on my personal MySpace page, so let's get everyone added to the new business page. If you have a MySpace, come visit and add us. We will be posting favorites of sessions, posting updates, blogging, and posting MySpace friends only specials!

http://www.myspace.com/bellaamadis

Hope you all have a wonderful New Year!!!

Santa Baby...

2007-12-11T15:37:00.000-08:00

Is this not just the cutest Santa Baby you've ever seen? Meet N, he is just 3 short hours older than Brooklynne. He is one of my best girlfriend's nephew and is a super sweet little man. I was editing images and came across the Santa Baby pictures and had to share. His smile is priceless! Many more to come, Mom and Dad. You will LOVE them!

My stinky brother.

2007-12-10T14:23:00.001-08:00

This is my kid brother.

My brother is like totally tubular, and uber awesome, and has like totally righteous hair. And stuff. He is 11 years younger than me, and such a joy to pick on. I mean love on. So, my brother just turned 16 and got his drivers license. So I thought I'd go ahead and post his mug online for the world to see. And more importantly for the resident's of the Cedar Park/Leander/North Austin areas to take note of and avoid at all costs on the road. You can thank me later.

We did my brother's portraits while we in Kentucky, which was loads of fun. And freaking cold. But rain, shine, or 33 degrees in the blistering cold won't stop this girl. Ok, so it normally will but it was the only time we had and I was a little obsessive. I really enjoy teenage portraits. They like totally participate way better than a 2 year old. But only by a little bit. And they're all about posing and looking spiffy. But I don't think spiffy is technically the "look", but whatever it is I think we achieved it. He's like totally hot stuff in these pictures.

How ironic that there was a wall on it that happened to have HIS name and a well known fact about him. Wierd.

And we even managed to get one of me and the little goober.

See, he does love me! I kinda like the little turkey too. Just don't tell him.

Vacation fun!

2007-12-03T07:53:00.001-08:00

Hey everyone! Well, I am officially back in action but not for long! :o) I am wrapping up the final deliveries for Christmas and have finished all the sessions! It was a fantastic Christmas season. If you didn't make time for pictures in December, watch for a fantastic special in January! I just wanted to pop in and share a couple of images from our trip. We had a wonderful time, did a whole lot of nothing. Which was just what we needed. Joseph also had this last week off, so I did what work I had to and spent the rest of my time loving on my family. It was so nice to have 2 weeks all together with very few things we had to do. I have a bazillion pictures to share, so I will do so slowly over the next couple of weeks so I don't bore you all to death at once. For now, here are a few favorites!

Hasta La Vista BABY!

2007-11-16T05:12:00.000-08:00

Well, folks.....I am out of here. Well, not actually yet but as of 6 am tomorrow morning I am. :o) And I cannot tell you how excited I am to get out of town. We are going to Kentucky to visit my family. We go every year, and our vacation is always made up of doing wonderfully relaxed things. We stare at cows, eat good food, go shopping at the cute little shops, eat good food, go for walks holding hands, visit with my wonderful family, and of course eat good food. Oh, and we eat good food. Did I already say that? And I have to tell you all that we have made some major lifestyle changes in an effort to just become healthier. I have lost 8 lbs and my hubby has lost 15 lbs!!! Of course, now the problem is, we will likely gain it all back on our trip.

To my clients who are waiting on orders, please know that the lab is delaying my deliveries this week. I didn't really think it would be a good idea to let those things lay on my porch. Well, actually my sister and her fiance will be here off and on - but she's not really looking to be me for a week. ;o) I will have my laptop with me to check emails as I can, but will likely return emails when we return the week after Thanksgiving.

I hope you all have a safe and blessed Thanksgiving! I am leaving you all with a wonderful story, one that has recently become very close to my heart. It's a story about taking a trip, thinking you are going to Italy and ending up in Holland. We have been in Holland for some time it seems, but are just finding out where we are. And just learning that Holland is a very wonderful place, worth loving. Holland is beautiful.

I am often asked to describe the experience of raising a child with a disability - to help people who have not shared this unique experience, to understand it, to imagine how it would feel.It's like this.

When you're going to have a baby, it's like planning a fabulous vacation - to Italy. You buy a bunch of guidebooks and make wonderful plans. The Coliseum. Michelangelo David. The Gondolas in Venice. You may learn some handy phrases in Italian. It's all very exciting.

After months of eager anticipation, the day finally arrives. You pack your bags and off you go. Several hours later, the plane lands. The stewardess comes in and says, "Welcome to Holland." "Holland?!?" you say. "What do you mean, Holland?? I signed up for Italy! I'm supposed to be in Italy. All my life I've dreamed of going to Italy."

But there's been a change in the flight plan. They've landed in Holland and there you must stay. The important thing is they haven't taken you to a horrible, disgusting, filthy place, full of pestilence, famine and disease. It's just a different place.

So you must go out and buy new guide books. And you must learn a whole new language. And you will meet a whole new group of people you would never have met. It's just a different place. It's slower paced than Italy, less flashy than Italy. But after you've been there for a while and you catch your breath, you look around. And you begin to notice that Holland has windmills. And Holland has tulips. Holland even has Rembrandts.

But everyone you know is busy coming and going from Italy. And they're all bragging about what a wonderful time they had there.

And for the rest of your life, you will say, "Yes, that's where I was supposed to go. That's what I had planned."

And the pain will never, ever go away. Because the loss of that dream is a very, very significant loss. But if you spend your life mourning the fact that you didn't get to go to Italy, you may never be free to enjoy the very special, the very lovely things. About Holland.

New Again

2007-10-29T15:01:00.000-07:00

A client sent this to me, and I thought I'd pass it along. I first have to say, if you have not seen The Passion of Christ or even considered what Jesus Christ endured this may be graphic. But I make no apologies to anyone for posting this, it is what I know. It is what makes me clean. It is what breaks my heart, and makes me love better. It is what I teach my children. It is why I am GOOD ENOUGH to go to Heaven. It is what I am most greatful for. And it is my heart. And would be a waste to not pass on. As it was put in the email to me, be prepared to be disturbed or blessed, depending upon the condition of your heart.

New Again

I'm alive, I swear.

2007-10-22T14:53:00.000-07:00

I've had a ton of emails lately asking if I am ok, and where I have been. I'm here! Things have been super crazy around here trying to get through the Christmas rush. It's been amazingly busy, and SO much fun. And wow, have we gotten some great images! I will be posting some soon, as soon as I can stop to breathe for a second. ;o) We are also going through some things, which I will fill you all in on once we know more details. But we could use your prayers, we just really have a lot on our plates right now and this rollercoaster is only going to get bigger. Lots of love everyone!

Pretty Ladies!

2007-10-03T17:14:00.000-07:00

Wow, things have been SO busy. But busy is good. :o) I thought I'd stop in to post a few recent favorites. First, meet Miss A. She also goes by Rocket. And sometimes Tramp. :o) Like Lady and the Tramp. A has a big imagination, which is right up my alley, so we had a grand time chasing Rocket/Tramp and discussing all the myteries of the world. And of course taking bones, which were just sticks (I don't have bones on hand during sessions normally), to her mom when we named her Tramp for a while. It got kinda sticky when I went to take A's picture and I said "I see a Traaaamp"....to which she added "A dirty one". We all had a really good chuckle. Those are my kind of sessions! So ladies and gentlemen, I now introduce "Tramp" who is a real fine little Lady I just adore!

We had many new perspectives during this session!

Isn't she just a DOLL???

After A's session I met with another of my regular clients for their session. It was also LOADS of fun. I love babies around age 1. They are just full of energy and plenty of smiles. And don't notice me too much, so I get to capture them just being cute one year olds. It's wonderful. :o) Both of these sessions gave me so much to look forward to with Brooklynne. Especially in the clothing department! Miss S was just a doll and absolutely beautiful. I hadn't seen her since her newborn portraits, so it was so nice to see her blossom into a beautiful little person. You're a mighty fine Lady too, S.

Meet My Daughter In Law and her brother!

2007-09-23T17:43:00.000-07:00

Well, future daughter in law...according to our children. And I can't say that I mind, because her parents are our totally rad and most entertaining friends. And well, let's face it - for kids as adorable as mine, we have to keep the generations looking good by hooking up my kids with equally gorgeous kids. hehe Only kidding, but "K" and Reagan ARE in love afterall, and in addition to being in love - Reagan has made K and G his cousins. Which could be strange if they marry. G just turned one, so we headed out to take his 1 year portraits. It was loads of fun and we got all the little ones involved. My kids were NOT as cooperative as these two gorgeous munchkins! More to come, but here is a sneak peek!

I've been tagged!

2007-09-13T13:15:00.000-07:00

For those of you who don't frequent a lot of photography blogs, you're probably clueless to the very fun game of "tag" that's been going around lately. I've been tagged by my amazing photographer friend (and sometimes my brain), Megan of Four Seasons Photography (she is a kick rear photographer in Oklahoma - I think I love her). You are supposed to share eight things about yourself & then tag eight other people. So here are mine (and can I just tell you how hard it was to think of 8 things??? Pretty sad, huh.):

1. I am just going to get this out of the way and admit that I love food. I have a passion for food, and appreciate a party in my mouth. I have been blessed with good metabolism...but fear that those days may be coming to an end.

2. Which brings me to #2. I hate to excercise. I think it's the devil. And it doesn't like me much either. But I have recruited a girlfriend who does work out to get my butt in gear so I can lose this last bit of baby fluff. Maybe.

3. I secretly want to be a nurse when I grow up. I just broke this news to my husband last week. I think he and I both thought when I began this journey of Bella Amadis Photography, that this would be where I would be for like ever. But my passion to be a nurse has not left, and I am planning to try to make that a reality once my children are all a little bigger. I will still run this business though, I don't think I could stop this.

4. My husband and I DVR all the shows we like and watch them at night once the munchkins are snoozing. We are Big Brother fans, CSI, and of course Greys! We also enjoy Dirty Jobs and shows like Mythbusters or Look I was born with 5 Heads type of shows. Ok, not really that but you get what I mean.

5. I was 20 when I got married and am going to be celebrating our 7th wedding anniversary in November. I never would have thought I'd have 3 kids under 5 by the age of 27, but it's the best thing in the world.

6. I enjoy regular pedicures with my mom (and Brooklynne tags along too). It's really great girl bonding time.

7. My parents and my grandparents are my heros. There just aren't words to describe how amazing they are.

8. I go to Hill Country Bible Church NW, it's a great church!

So, now I am supposed to tag 8 more people....but almost everyone has been tagged!

1. I am going to tag my other great friend, Robin DePaula. Megan tagged her, but she's slacking. So I am tagging her again so she'll get her rear in gear!

2. My other lovely friend Jackie of Jax Creations. She better get on it too! lol

3. Jennifer Carter, who is just about one of the sweetest gals a girl can call a friend.

4. Vicki Byerley, she taught me a lot of what I know. We are like 2 peas in a pod...which is trouble waiting to happen. lol But she is just wonderful, and a very dear friend.

5. My lovely Aussie friend, Lindy, who I secretly want to talk on the phone with JUST so I can hear her accent!

6. One of my biggest inspirations, Kim. Her son Kicked Cancer's Butt and reminds me to appreciate everyday.

7. Not a photographer, but one talented Momma. Deborah, of Sassy Satchels, is one of my clients and makes a real fancy diaper bag!

8. Ok, I hurt my brain getting 7 and my baby is done with me being on here!

Holy Moly I can't believe I forgot

2007-09-11T17:39:00.000-07:00

I was looking at my schedule this evening and realized I had not reserved a time to do our 2nd annual Costume Cuties mini sessions! We had such a great time last year having all of the little ones come out in their adorable costumes. Luckily I have some time still! SO, it's short notice but get those costumes ready! I am going to send out the usual evites tomorrow. There will only be 4 of these available, and they will likely fill fast (unless of course I am too short in my notice lol).
Costume Cuties is September 22nd!

Now Christmas sessions are another thing, those are almost gone! I have a couple of slots left in October and only one left in November. Email me today to reserve your slot before they are gone!

She knows who's boss

2007-09-10T15:32:00.000-07:00

Meet Baby A. I call her Baby A, but she's not really a BABY anymore (I'm in denial that time has flown by so fast). She has been a client of mine since she was 6 months old, and gets cuter and cuter each time I see her. She was one of my first clients, and still doesn't care too much for the camera. :o) She knows what she wants and we go along for the ride. She decided studio sessions weren't so much for her this time, so we headed down to the park at the end of my street. Which, by the way, is my new secret weapon. Baby A, I think you are adorable. And a girl who knows what she wants and who is boss, is my kind of girl! Here's a sneak peek for her wonderful Mommy, the rest will be ready soon!

Well hello, chub.

2007-09-08T15:32:00.000-07:00

I know what your going to say. "Don't you ever feed that baby?!?!" I know she is skinny, but yes I feed her. Often, too. About every 2 hours, thank you. Isn't she just lucious though??? I had a client here today with a baby girl that is 2 weeks older than Brooklynne and it made me realize how big she is.

Maybe Daddy should have had a pedi first.

Sometimes she plays shy.

She can be serious too.

And she is a ham, just like her mommy.

Invisible

2007-08-28T15:56:00.000-07:00

One of my wonderful client friends sent this to me, and it made my day. So, I thought I would pass it on to my other wonderful mom friends. Thanks girl!

I'm invisible.

It all began to make sense, the blank stares, the lack of response, the way one of the kids will walk into the room while I'm on the phone and ask to be taken to the store. Inside I'm thinking, "Can't you see I'm on the phone?" Obviously not. No one can see if I'm on the phone, or cooking, or sweeping the floor, or even standing on my head in the corner, because no one can see me at all.

I'm invisible.

Some days I am only a pair of hands, nothing more: Can you fix this? Can you tie this? Can you open this? Some days I'm not a pair of hands; I'm not even a human being. I'm a clock to ask, "What time is it?" I'm a satellite guide to answer, "What number is the Disney Channel?" I'm a car to order, "Right around 5:30 , please."

I was certain that these were the hands that once held books and the eyes that studied history and the mind that graduated summa cum laude - but now they had disappeared into the peanut butter, never to be seen again. She's going ... she's going... she's gone!

One night, a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the return of a friend from England . Janice had just gotten back from a fabulous trip, and she was going on and on about the hotel she stayed in. I was sitting there, looking around at the others all put together so well. It was hard not to compare and feel sorry for myself as I looked down at my out-of-style dress; it was the only thing I could find that was clean. My unwashed hair was pulled up in a banana clip and I was afraid I could actually smell peanut butter in it.

I was feeling pretty pathetic, when Janice turned to me with a beautifully wrapped package, and said, "I brought you this." It was a book on the great cathedrals of Europe . I wasn't exactly sure why she'd given it to me until I read her inscription: "To Charlotte , with admiration for the greatness of what you are building when no one sees."

In the days ahead I would read - no, devour - the book. And I would discover what would become for me, four life-changing truths, after which I could pattern my work:

No one can say who built the great cathedrals - we have no record of their names.

These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would never see finished.

They made great sacrifices and expected no credit.

The passion of their building was fueled by their faith that the eyes of God saw everything.

A legendary story in the book told of a rich man who came to visit the cathedral while it was being built, and he saw a workman carving a tiny bird on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and asked the man, "Why are you spending so much time carving that bird into a beam that will be covered by the roof? No one will ever see it."

And the workman replied, "Because God sees."

I closed the book, feeling the missing piece fall into place. It was almost as if I heard God whispering to me, "I see you, Charlotte. I see the sacrifices you make every day, even when no one around you does. No act of kindness you've done, no sequin you've sewn on, no cupcake you've baked, is too small for me to notice and smile over. You are building a great cathedral, but you can't see right now what it will become."

At times, my invisibility feels like an affliction. But it is not a disease that is erasing my life. It is the cure for the disease of my own self-centeredness. It is the antidote to my strong, stubborn pride. I keep the right perspective when I see myself as a great builder. As one of the people who show up at a job that they will never see finished, to work on something that their name will never be on.

The writer of the book went so far as to say that no cathedrals could ever be built in our lifetime because there are so few people willing to sacrifice to that degree.

When I really think about it, I don't want my son to tell the friend he's bringing home from college for Thanksgiving, "My mom gets up at 4 in the morning and bakes homemade pies, and then she hand bastes a turkey for three hours and presses all the linens for the table." That would mean I'd built a shrine or a monument to myself. I just want him to want to come home. And then, if there is anything more to say to his friend, to add, "You're gonna love it there."

As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We cannot be seen if we're doing it right. And one day, it is very possible that the world will marvel, not only at what we have built, but at the beauty that has been added to the world by the sacrifices of invisible women.

Cup of Brooklynne

2007-08-22T18:55:00.000-07:00

I think my neighbors think I am weird. And they are probably right. But how often do you see something this cute in your neighbor's front yard??? Didn't think so. Drive on by at random times, you never know what I'll be doing next. lol I often wonder if the neighbors I don't know well wonder what is going on over here. New people in and out all the time with stacks of clothing. hehe It must be a funny site. One neighbor said he often wonders how long some are planning to stay. :o) So, tomorrow I am a day older. bah, But I'm going shopping and getting loads of yummy food....and it won't count against my "lose all this baby weight so you can look like a normal but perfect girl and wear really cute clothes" plan cause your body disposes of all the fat on your birthday. Yeah. And Friday's. Fat Free Fridays. You learn something new everyday on my blog, don't ya??? Have a great one!!!

Weddings!!!

2007-08-20T11:02:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share a couple of quick images from a wedding we did. We did this wedding about a week before I came off leave, it was soooo much fun! We had a lot working against us, but the wedding turned out so beautifully! I am thankful to this wonderful couple for letting us share in their special day! I just wanted to share a few:

And we are very excited to announce that we will be adding wedding packages to our variety of services. I have always steered clear of them, and to be honest I will be choosy with weddings. I want to make sure I am a good match for each couple. This match was perfect and enjoyable, so it was that little push we needed to open the door to another project. As if we need more projects. ha We will start doing weddings in '08 so tell your friends....the ones who are getting married of course.

Ok, so on another note, this is going to be my adult ADD information coming out of my ears update. A couple of things:

1. We are really trying to expand our outdoor/on-location portfolio. While we have done tons, we have not asked permission to use them. So, we are looking for a few models! We want to take some kiddos downtown, to parks, old buildings, etc. It will be loads of fun and be amazing images! I am getting ready to do this with my own little crew so I will have samples soon. If you would like to sign your child up to be a model, please email me and I will give you the details.

2. We are also looking for a couple of Senior Reps in the area. High School Seniors will receive a discount and get to be in our portfolio! Contact me for details.

3. You will now also have the option to have a preview of your session on the blog! After your session, the wait can be INTENSE. So, you will now have the lovely option of having a sneak peek image to get you through the agonizing wait. I know. It's golden. And I am a smart cookie.

4. My birthday is on Thursday. And I am getting older by the minute people. And I think I need something shiny for my birthday. And I don't mean foil.

5. I need chocolate, so I have to go now. Don't tell anyone though. I feel like if I have chocolate while no one is around it doesn't count as breaking my diet. Works well I think.

Lots of love people!

Looks like we have a plan!

2007-08-18T06:07:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who has taken the poll! It will remain open until September 1st, so feel free to add your thoughts!
So, it looks like we will have a site that allows you to view your session as well as place your order and pay right then and there. I am working on getting it in place and hope to have it up and running by September 1. There will also be the option for a viewing session at the studio. When you come for your session, you will be asked what your preference is and we will either set up a viewing session or an online viewing.
In addition to this exciting change, there will be a couple of minor changes to ordering. Once your proofs are online, you will now have 5 days to view and choose your portraits. Things are much busier around here, and with the holiday season sneaking up on us I need to make sure everything is smooth. This policy will change as of September 1st as well. If you have already scheduled a session, you will be honored the current viewing time. We also have some awesome new business cards on their way, and are working on new brochures and other products! It is all very exciting. We have grown by leaps and bounds and we want to make sure the experience is as exciting and memorable as the portraits! Hope everyone has an awesome weekend!!!

Silly me...

2007-08-12T12:05:00.000-07:00

I forgot to post the special for September...

Complimentary 8x10 with $100 purchase and paid session! Plus you add on the fact that you get to hang out with me for about an hour and that my friends, is priceless!

Almost forgot...

2007-08-07T07:00:00.000-07:00

I have had many requests for availability in September already. I will be back to 3 sessions per weekend. And it is filling up quick, so here is what's left for September's schedule:

September 1 - BOOKED!
September 8 - 2 slots left
September 15 - BOOKED!
September 22 - 2 slots left
September 30 - 1 slot left

Take the Poll!

2007-08-07T06:49:00.000-07:00

Ok, so here's the skinny. I have been looking for a better way of proofing, or a better proofing site for some time. Well, my current proofing site is shutting down and forcing me to get in gear and make a decision. So, I've posted a poll (to the left). I don't want to make a decision that is good for me, but totally inconvenient for the client. So, please take the poll! I'll cry if you don't. I am going to explain the choices....

Viewing Appointment: You would come back to my home to view your portraits, which would be presented in a slideshow. We would then sit down together and go through them each to see what you would like to order and can even help you design a set up for a display wall in your home. You would have to be prepared to place your order at the time of your Viewing Appointment, but family and friends would still have an opportunity to order. After our appointment the session would go live online for 5 days, allowing any additional orders to be placed. I would love to be able to do this, and meet with each of my clients. But I know this may not be the best option for those who are an hour or more away.

Online Viewing and Ordering: Basically exactly what we have been doing now, but you would have the ability to order the prints right there on the site rather than having to email me.

Online Slideshow: This would be a slideshow for you to view, along with being able to see each portrait. You would still have to email me your order.

So, those are the choices. I am also very open to any other ideas, if you have them. But I really want to make sure I am keeping everything as convenient or better than it is now. Thanks friends!!!

I'm BAAAAACK!

2007-08-03T14:55:00.000-07:00

Well, ladies and gents this weekend I am back in action and Bella Amadis Photography is reopening after my almost 3 month leave. I am so excited. I have a bunch of new clients coming out this month that I am so excited to meet and work with. And of course, my awesome regulars who I am just so thrilled to see. :o) I am going to sit down and work on my Fall schedule and get that out soon. I have had a ton of inquiries on when I will start booking for Christmas sessions, and since there are already people asking it will likely be soon that I start scheduling them. The actual sessions will likely start next month. Which is crazy to already be thinking of Christmas, but last year we started mid September and were booked in no time for the rest of the year and we unfortunately had to turn people away. So, this year I am on top of the game! Ok, I gotta run before the little peeps cause some trouble. Here are some pictures from yesterday of my little sweet munchkins....