Home in the Woods

Have you ever experienced the gift of knowing a kindred spirit in your life? I certainly have been blessed with many. And this couple is on that list. When I first met this dad, we sat at a familiar table, 5 days a week, for approximately 9 months out of the year. We exchanged ideas, thoughts, paints and pencils in a high school art class. Although, just like a brother to me, he'd sometimes torture me with his antics, remarks, and occasional jests {strike occasional - it was daily!}. He had this terrific sense of humor - dry, straightforward, you know the type - sarcastic ;) But I loved him anyway, just like a good sister would. After graduation we didn't see each other for many, many moons. When we did cross paths again, luck would have it that this angel of a woman married him and they have 2 bright, beautiful children! Wow, miracles do happen :} hehe .. AND, it gets even better! I feel a kindred spirit connection with this mom too! We have had many good times and good talks whenever we get the chance in our busy lives to see one another. She's a special lady, not only to me, but to all who know her! How fortunate for me to have been given this wonderful opportunity to photograph them at their rustic home in the woods, which, by the way, was built by this dad (his talents are profuse)!

this guy wasn't too keen on having his picture taken ..
But, just look at this smile I got!

can I just say - these 2 are so photogenic, I couldn't take a bad photo

of them even if I tried ...

Such love surrounds this family ...

Thank you 'T family' for spending your precious time with me

while I gained great experience, soaked up your terrific smiles,

and shared in your family moments together.

I am grateful to you.

With great admiration and love,

Barb

Keep Your Sense of Humor ...

Minutes tick away on the clock. Days go by. Years pass before our very eyes. Have you ever found yourself saying over and over "where does the time go?!" I most certainly feel that way when I stop, think about where I am in life, and reflect. Where does it go? There's so much to do in such a short amount of time! Do you ever feel that too?

My family and I visited a dear friend of ours earlier today. Our neighbor, Mr. S, is celebrating another momentous birthday today. He is 97. Every day is a gift to him. Every minute he is "awake," he counts as a blessing. Now, I must tell you that this guy is no ordinary guy. The man still drives - everywhere. He still lives in his home of 50+ years - alone. He's faithful about attending church - every week. He continues to plant a vegetable garden - every year. He cans the fruits that grow on his property. He makes the most scrumptious chocolate peanut butter eggs that I've ever tasted (which, by the way, all the ladies at church go ga-ga for!). He enjoys a good game of cards and a beer to accompany. AND ... His sense of humor is firmly in tact.

When I asked him earlier how it feels to be 97, he replied (very matter-of-factly too), "It doesn't feel much different than being 96!" And then his signature grin :) spread across his face! I can always count on Mr. S. to make me smile. Along with his cheerful nature, he has been given the gift of humor. And, I do believe his gift has kept him enjoying every moment he is given.

I asked him if I could take his picture ...

I should be asking to record his life story!

Here's to you, Mr. S.! Thank you for your bright smile and light, fun perspective on life.

Happy birthday!

Cheers,

Barb

picket fences and roses

Did I ever tell you how much I am enjoying my new pursuit in photography? Oh, I did already, didn't I?! I learn something new at each session as I build my experience - after all, I am just starting out on a professional level. And there's still so much more to learn! How exciting for me! {sorry if I'm redundant...forgive me?}

I met this family, whom I will affectionately call the "H family," last Sunday afternoon. Running late and feeling a little rushed upon my arrival, the Hs warmly welcomed me and made me feel at home immediately. We ventured out into their yard for some sunshine on this warm fall day ... and this is what I found ...

loving hands a plenty...

family bonds...

giggles of pure joy...

smiles and hip hip hurrays ...

a joy surrounds this loving family ...

exclamations like - "look at my new teeth!"...

patience and care...

and fun was had by all!

We went inside for our wrap-up and a few more shots.

Mom poured a bucket full of wooden blocks on the floor.

The littlest H (age 3) began to configure words before my very eyes.

He spelled the words:

sipped.

made.

and ...

heart.

Astonishing to me.

I am continuously enthralled by this profession and how it affords me

the wondrous opportunities of meeting families like this.

Thank you, H family, for sharing your story with me;

for allowing me to capture these moments with you.

I am filled with a grateful heart. :)

peace and love be yours,

Barb

Take me out to the Ball Game!

The family and I braved the cold October winds to watch our cousin play baseball. He's quite serious about his sport too! He plays as often, almost year round, as he can. His skills are evident. This boy can play ball! A real natural! :)

what a handsome young man too ...

Play ball!!!

a favorite of mine from the day ...

just look at this confidence ...

and, well, of course, no shoot is complete if I can't get one of these cuties ;)

This was my first official high school sporting photo shoot. Could you tell?

Wishing our handsome young cousin much success in his baseball career.

I have a feeling he'll be playing many more games in his lifetime!

His lesson to all of us - Persevere, do what you love, and the rest comes naturally.

love,

Barb

16 days young

I had the distinct honor of photographing this sweet, newborn baby girl. And what a joy she was. At 16 days young, she stole my heart. Her precious little face, hands, toes, little birthmark on her back, and her strawberry blonde hair. But what struck me the most was the strength I saw in this little bundle's eyes. I'm convinced she's destined for great things. Thank you to her mom and dad for allowing me this wonderful experience. I will treasure these images always. :)

Thank you for viewing, friends.

Your comments are always welcomed, and appreciated.

Bountiful blessings of love and peace are wished for you, little wonder,

little love, little girl.

Love,

Mrs. Liszcz ;)