**Riley** {newborn}

what do you get when you cross a super tough army ranger with a gorgeous momma?  you get this adorable little sweet pea!  baby riley is the cutest little peanut!  we had fun sweating it out with her at her shoot.  she, like most newborns, wasn't really into it, but eventually she gave in and we got some great shots!!!  dad is not only an army ranger but he actually delivered his own baby, how awesome is that!  and mom... well it should be a crime to look that good after just having a baby!  thanks t family for allowing me to spend time snuggling with your little addition!

 

**memorial day** {2013}

today is quite a day for our family.  first and foremost we remember our fallen who gave their lives willingly to protect ours.  we have lost many brothers in our ranger and special forces families over the years and we will never forget their sacrifices.  we are so thankful to those who volunteer to walk in the valley of the shadow of death.  may God bless America.

today is also my amazing mother's birthday.  she is the most selfless person i've ever met.  i pray that i am at least half the mother and grandma she is- always giving and never expecting anything in return.  she always amazes me.

lastly, today we celebrate and remember a very special person in my life.  my dear friend Lise Marie Palmer and her beautiful little girl Faith Marie.  they were taken from us 2 years ago in a tragic accident and we will never forget her love for life, her energy, her laugh, and mostly her love for the Lord.  see you in heaven my friend.

**C&J** {baby}

this sweet couple will be a family of 3 soon!  i'm so excited for them!!!  carly came to me with an idea to head up to the snow for her maternity session before they move across the country with the airforce.  i thought it was a FABULOUS idea... i didn't know though that she actually meant to nearly summit rainier for the perfect spot she had in mind ;).  we had so much fun, lots of snow, lots of laughs, a few Ice Road Trucker moments, and so many great images!  this little lady is going to not only be beautiful but have such sweet, loving parents.  congrats you two!  big hugs and don't forget us in washington!!!!

**american hero** {sgt joel clarkson}

this weekend i was completely honored to attend the funeral service for sergeant joel clarkson. what an amazing ceremony to honor such a deserving, loved man. joel gave his life for you and me. and now he is rejoicing in heaven with our loving Lord. there are so many lessons we can learn from this man, his faith, honor, and love for his family. please pray for everyone that knew and loved joel during this time of healing. and remember to thank and support our troops who, each day, willingly stand in the valley of the shadow of death to protect this wonderful country. God Bless America.

greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends
john 15:13