the THREE of us

to all my fans in utah-

2009-06-19T11:57:00.000-07:00

I really can't wait to come and play with all of my cousins. Let's laugh and play and I will show you all of my new tricks! I am so excited to read lots of books with grandpa and scream so grandma will hold me and give me lots of love. Maybe one night I can have a sleep over at Aunt Cher & Uncle Brian's!!! You are going to die when you see my chubby, chubby legs! My mom won't stop pinching them! They are just the cutest! See you in 2 weeks!

Love to you all!

Hugs and Kisses-
Miss O

Happy Friday!!

picnic dinner

2009-06-10T10:41:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was BEAUTIFUL! The weather was absolutely perfect. So, while Chris finished up school for the day... Miss O and I packed up a tasty little dinner. We headed over to the park across the street and had a great time.

Miss O LOVES being outside...

So does her dad...

And mom does on occasion... :)

Olive has definitely discovered her tongue... and it is out ALL THE TIME! Its so cute and pointed!

We followed up dinner with a long walk around the neighborhood. It was just a great night. Happy wednesday!

Sunday Morning

2009-06-07T10:45:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered how Miss O spends her Sunday morning?

I know, it's her world and we're all just paying rent!

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T13:17:00.000-07:00

Olive and I just wanted to wish Auburn a very, very Happy Mother's Day. We love and appreciate all that she does for us. She makes life so much better for the both of us. We're grateful for her love, patience, and selflessness. She truly makes our home a better place. Olive and I are blessed everyday to have her in our lives. So here's to you. Happy Mother's Day!

Love,

Chris and Miss O

Isn't Auburn the luckiest women in the world. She has to wake up to this every day.

And here's a few more of Miss O.

4 weeks = one month!

2009-02-12T11:13:00.000-08:00

I can not believe Miss O is one month old! Part of me feels like we just got home from the hospital yesterday and the other part feels like I have been a mom my whole life. As sappy as it sounds, I LOVE.... absolutely LOVE.... being a mom. Not like I ever felt "lost" before, but now I feel like I have a legit purpose in life. I feel like I am finally doing what I have been "training" for all my childhood. Waking up everyday (usually to her sweet yet feisty cry) I just feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for this opportunity to be Olive's mom. I really can't believe how much love I have for this tiny little baby. I LOVE Chris.. I am completely head-over-heels IN LOVE with Chris.... but the love I have for Olive is totally different. I LOVE this feeling! I love knowing I am her mom... I am the one responsible for her. She is all mine (well, and Chris' too.... but, ya know). I absolutely LOVE feeding her. It is silly to say, but I totally have a testimony for nursing. To each their own, and I know it is different for every mom and baby... but for me and Miss O.... nursing has been one of my favorite and most challenging parts of motherhood so far. It certainly is not easy and it was EXTREMELY painful for about 3 weeks, but in the last week the nicest lady in my ward has been helping me. She has been a lactation coach for several years and has spent alot of time with me and Miss O and making sure things were just right. I love nursing her and looking down at her. I love watching her little eyes look up at me while she eats. I love tickling her little head and calming her when she gets fussy. I love the skin to skin contact and I love knowing that I am the only one who can do this for her. Even at 3 am when I would LOVE to be sleeping... I cant help but be totally happy. I love that Heavenly Father has designed my body so that I can help hers grow... its simply amazing. I love that just randomly during the day... usually when I am getting very tired and ready for a little break and very ready for Chris to come home... I tangibly feel the love and help of my Heavenly Father... usually shed some serious tears of joy and love... and then my day seems to get that much easier and that much better. I always thought boys had it so easy... but I really wouldn't switch if I had the chance. I love being a mom and all that comes with that... I think the boys are the ones missing out.

I can not believe how BIG Olive has gotten since she was born! On her 2 week check she was already back up to 7 lbs. 3 oz and had passed her birthweight and was 7 lbs 12 oz before she was even 3 weeks! She is still in newborn clothes but I can see her filling them out more and more each day. Her little tummy is getting rounder and rounder and her thighs have some tiny little chubs starting to form... the girl could not be any cuter! She is more alert everyday and is wide awake every night from about 9 to 10. Just enough time to get some love from her daddy after work. She has been doing awesome at night. I usually feed her around 11:30 pm or so and then not again till around 3:30-4:30am and then again at 8:30am. During the day she has been eating around the 3 hour mark pretty regularly. I have left her once so far... with my mom... while I ran to Target with Chelsea... it is crazy how nervous I was to be away from her after these last few weeks... and I left her with a PRO! Miss O spends all of her awake time on her tummy and loves looking around. Still sleeps a whole lot during the day, but I am not complaining about that one! She LOVES her binky... that is a must whenever she is not nursing... then she falls asleep (mouth wide open, of course) and the binky is left hanging halfway out... its the funniest thing ever. No signs yet of loosing any of her hair, but I think it is getting some red in it... or maybe I am just hopeful!! She loves when Chris or I sing to her. When she is fussy we put her in a tight little burrito and sing primary or nursery songs and she calms down every time. Its funny listening to the other sing and run out of songs... we have both resorted to "up on the house top reindeer paws..." on more than one occasion :) Any time we go to my parents' house Olive gets lots of love. It is not rare for their to be a full on race... between a number of adults... to who can get to Miss O first... (and this is before we even make it through the front door!) Usually Curtis Hall wins, but Evan's texts for holding dibs start hours before dinner even begins! The cousins have been so good to Olive so far... Crew just LOVES to be next to her and loves to touch her and the Gambell Girls have done so good holding her and loving on her. We can't wait to see the Jones cousins in a few weeks... we are already counting down the days!

These pics were taken last week on her 3 week mark... but she looks the same... maybe just a little bit cuter!

This is her pirate face... "Arrrgh Matey" ... this just makes me smile

I could seriously look at her all day long! Her eyes are just big and blue and perfect.. I love her

I could just kiss those lips and cheeks all day long! Oh, I just love them!

So this was the 4 week update... mostly for us... but if you read all of it, congrats. Dad, mom and baby are doing great. This is our little family. Life isn't perfect and some things I wish I could change, but life really is good and I can't help but be grateful for that.

Peace out folks!

Tagged by Megan!

2009-01-29T11:46:00.000-08:00

Eight things i am passionate about:

* my cutest baby ever... Miss O
* my best husband ever... jonesy
* photography & taking pics of my fam
* being a mom, like the one in charge
* nursing my little babe
* loving the RW Mia Maids
* loving the jones fam
* loving the clouse fam

Eight words or phrases i use the most:

* Fab u lous
* to-die-for
* get out of town!
* oh my stars!
* I love you!
* Thank you!
* YOU ROCK!
* love
* Miss O

Eight things i wanna do before i die:

* have lots more babies- through both pregnancy and adoption
* be the cool mom that all the kids want to hang out at Olive's house
* make better rolls than my mom- guess I better attempt to make them first :)
* be a better scriptorian... I would love to learn & study & KNOW the gospel like Chris does
* travel the world over
* visit many Temples
* have my own line of home organizational products :)
* design my own home- start to finish

Eight things i need right now:

* a shower
* to feed Olive
* some serious sleep
* finish all my editing
* a pedicure
* a nap
* lunch
* my bff to get home from work & hang out with his girls

Eight places i wanna visit:

* Utah- so Miss O could meet her cousins
* New York
* Seattle
* Italy- with my own personal tour guide ;)
* England
* Germany
* The REAL Sleeping Beauty Castle
* Hawaii or some beachy island

Eight favorite restaurants:

* Rubio's- HELLO!
* Chipotle
* Subway
* The Keg
* Paradise Bakery
* Sauce
* Tia Rosa's
* In N Out

Eight TV shows:

* Lost
* HOUSE
* What Not To Wear
* The Bachelor
* Take Home Chef
* Video Wake Up
* Jon & Kate plus 8

Eighth folder Eighth picture:
{or just for your viewing pleasure}

I TAG... Angela, Meridee, Shanell F, Jamie, Tracy & Madison

the greatest day ever...

2009-01-18T11:17:00.000-08:00

Can you even believe it?! She is here!!! It feels like we just found out we were prego, and now we have the CUTEST most adorable little girl imaginable. Olive Jones... it just fits her so well, and she just fits into our little family perfectly. She is COMPLETELY a Jones baby. She looks just like Chris when he was born. Her fingers and toes are totally him, her cheeks and eyes and chin... she is just so cute. We think she might have my lips... maybe.... but for the most part, she is a Jones and I am thrilled. No sign of any red hair, it is still a light brown, but there she is a lot of it! Here is a quick little rundown of the excitement- mostly for my own journaling, but for those of you that would like to hear the cutest little arrival ever, listen up:

So, Wednesday night we were admitted around 6 or so for a "cervidal induction". A cervidal is a little mesh thing that goes behind your cervix and releases the hormones to help you soften and efface (stepping stone for pitocin). When I was admitted I was barely 1 cm and maybe 25% effaced. So they put the cervidal in and that has to stay for 12 hours. Thursday morning I woke up, tried to eat some fruit despite the nerves through the ceiling and they started me on pitocin around 8:30 am. I managed to make it to 4 cm and 50% effaced by 11:30 when they gave me the epidural. FOR THE RECORD: everyone makes a WAY bigger deal about the epidural than they should. I thought it was great! Maybe the lady doing it was just awesome, but I thought the IV was more painful than the epidural. So, if you are prego, don't stress about this one. It felt fine and once the meds were started through it, it felt AMAZING! My legs were warm and tingly the whole time... kinda like a little massage.... then when things start to hurt you just press your lovely little button and you are on cloud nine again! Almost immediately after the epidural was set, Dr. Beck came and broke my water around noon or so. They cranked up the epidural, Chris played solitaire and tetris on the tv, and I slept on and off the entire afternoon. At around 4:30 I woke up and told Chris I thought the baby was coming out and that I wanted to push. Sure enough, I was a full 10cm and 100% effaced! The nurse got the room set and called Dr. Beck. I did my first push at about 4:55 and at 5:10 little Olive was here! I think I only pushed through 4 contractions... it was great. Chris was right next to me the entire time, completely intrigued with the entire thing, giving me a play-by-play rundown.... it was just awesome. On the last one I pushed real hard and then Dr. Beck told me to stop and look down... and there she was.... a BABY... MY BABY... was coming out of me! It was the most surreal thing in the entire world. She practically slid right out, he cleaned her up, Chris cut the cord, and she was laying on my chest! Up until this point, I (shockingly enough) had yet to shed a tear... but as soon as my baby was on my chest, the happiest, warmest, most assuring feeling came over me. This was my baby. I know I knew her before I came to earth and it was the sweetest, most precious reunion. She looked right up at me and I can't even believe how much love I instantly had for this perfect little girl. I get to be with her forever. We get to be her parents. At this very moment I knew I had tasted just a sliver of the love my Heavenly Father has for me. Olive was absolutely perfect. They finished cleaning her up and took all her measurements and I just couldnt stop staring at her. It was as if I was there, but I wasn't..... quite the little moment to digest. Chris was on cloud nine.... he followed here everywhere the nurses took her and couldn't believe what just happened. It was so nice to welcome Olive with just us. It was quiet in the room, very calm and we were able to love on her all we wanted. About 20 minutes and 20 stitches later my Mom and Chelsea came in to meet our little rock star. Curtis kindly brought in the diet coke I had been craving all morning!! It was a small little celebration and then they moved us to our postpardum room. We hung out for a bit then I got to nurse her for the first time- talk about weird! This little thing just came out of my body, and now my body knows how to feed her?! Heavenly Father sure did think of everything, didn't He?! That night every single sibling and every single spouse came to visit. We sure are so very lucky to have so much love and support from both of our families. We felt the love all day and have continued to feel it ever since. Olive was loved by so many before she even made her debut, what a lucky little girl! The night settled in and we had the nursery take her for the night so we could get some rest. We stayed up for a little bit just talking about the days events.... we are so blessed and we so grateful for this entire experience. So many women dont get the opportunity to experience this in this life, and I feel so blessed that I was able to.

We were discharged Saturday afternoon around 1 and spent a quite (napping) afternoon at home as just our little family and a few different visitors. Thank you to everyone for your phone calls and messages... we know we have a lot to learn as new parents and we will need alot of questions answered in the future.... we are so grateful for the love and support around us.

Here are a few pics from this weeks events.... and if you even think she looks cute in these pics.... just wait till you see her in person!!! She is just edible! I could just kiss her cheeks all stinkin day long.

right after delivery

24 hours old- thanks again, Niki, for the ADORABLE hospital gown!

Our little family of THREE!!! I love my baby and my cute husband- he was awesome from start to finish and now, I must say, I think Olive has stolen his heart from me!! I think I just might take back seat to her for a while! Good thing I love her, too!!

First night home from the hospital

Sophia and "bebe ala".... the Gambells came out this morning and we had a fun visit. The girls were all so excited to see Olive and couldnt stop sharing the loves and kisses- even Eliza kept kssing her. Sophia, by far though, was about to jump out of her pants when she saw her!

And last, but not least..... CONGRATS to these two lovebirds who will be married on April 17th!!! We love you Amanda and Evan!! Can't wait to dance the night away with little Olive!

Welcome Olive!!!

2009-01-15T21:14:00.000-08:00

Olive Jones
January 15, 2009
Weighing 7 lbs 5 oz
20 in Long

We are so excited to finally meet Olive. Her delivery was pretty easy, both Mom and Dad (especially Dad) were shocked at how fast it was!! Everyone is great and healthy... I am sure you can expect more pics to come! By the way she has the CUTEST chubby cheeks ever....

where to start?!

2009-01-09T14:13:00.001-08:00

I guess this wouldn't be so hard if I just updated regularly... but since we all know that doesn't happen, here is a quick run down of some fun things that have been goin' on around here- (then I will get to the more recent happenings)

#1- Back in November... while playing church basketball (of course), the husband about killed himself and his ankle- here is the aftermath. Nothing was broken... just really swollen and painful... and still a little swollen today.

#2- Still November... and Thanksgiving was awesome! Why do we only get to have that much food on one day of the year?! We need to have a spring thanksgiving, as well... maybe march first... We had an afternoon meal at my Aunt Kathy's, then hit up "4 Christmases" later that night. fabulous day.

#3- Don't know if anyone told you... but Megan got married on Nov. 29th!!! I know... it was such a quiet, and calm event, you probably forgot already :) Megan looked ROCKIN and the reception was so much fun. We sure did dance the night away! Congrats Twinner!

#4- As spontaneously as us Clouse's know how... Amanda, my Mom and I all headed for Disneyland the day after Meg's wedding. It was a quick and fun girls trip! Shanell and Dale were headed there, too, so we met up with them at the Park 2 days and had a blast! I couldn't ride the big rides, but Sophia and I sure did rock the merry-go-round like you wouldn't believe! Im glad I went right before Olive comes... we probably wont be back for atleast 5 years when Olive is big enough to ride... Here are some of my fav pics from the trip- (note sophia is pure STAR STRUCK by Alice! She didn't know what to do and totally FROZE!!!)

#5- My fantastic husband took the LSAT and rocked it. Way to go Jonesy! We've now begun the application process and hope to hear back this spring as to where we will hopefully be attending this fall. Fingers are crossed for AZ so I don't have to leave my little abode (I love my little house)... but we will go wherever we can! Long term plans are so up in the air, but its definitely exciting!

#6- Christmas and wedding season is OVER!!! I had my last wedding on the 2nd and a family shoot last weekend... now I am officially DONE (for a few weeks, atleast) and Olive can come whenever!!! This November/December was nuts! I never thought my little business would grow so fast, but we sure are grateful. It has been so nice being busy and not having to go to costco! I cant tell you how happy that makes my little heart! A huge website upgrade is coming soon... all of these shoots left me no time to update.... when its done, Ill let you know... Im hoping its going to be fabulous!

#7- Christmas was so much fun this year! We were able to be with the Jones' on the 12th/13th and it was fun to experience a snowy winter/early Christmas! I couldn't fly any more so we stayed here for the actual holiday. Christmas Eve we had the traditional meal at my parents that was DIVINE! I didn't even know I liked prime rib... and Olive and I consumed more than our fair share! Then we opened jammies... well, I opened jammies- there is no way I could ever get Christopher to put on "jammies".... he would die! Then we were off to our house for an early night in bed. We slept in and enjoyed a yummy breakfast then opened presents. Chris did AWESOME this year! He was Mr. Surprise all the way around. It was such a fun morning... then I surprised Chris with tickets to the Suns game that afternoon. So we got ready and headed down town. It was an awesome and exciting game- even though we lost... then we went straight to a movie with my family. We saw Valkyrie and I slept through about half of it.. but my history buff of a husband was in to it from start to finish. After the movie we hung out at my parents for a couple hours then back home for another early night in bed. That, my friends, is how to do a holiday!! Easy going, relaxed, and not over scheduled. It was the perfect way to spend our last childless Christmas! Thank you, thank you to both parents- Tom & Jan, Curtis & Denise- this year was AWESOME and we appreciate you more than you know. We are not sure that we deserve such love and support, but we are so very grateful!!! We love you!!!

The top pic is us at the suns game. Don't I have the most attractive little husband?! Well, I guess he isn't very little, but he sure is a stud! The second pic is us on Christmas morning in all of our sleepy glory and then the bottom pic is me on Christmas Eve- if you forgot I was prego... here is a HUGE reminder. Yeah.... there's a kid inside of me... Still wrapping my mind around that concept and I am due this sunday!

#8- New Year's Eve was so much fun! I call myself a photographer, but I seriously struggle capturing events and moments in my own life! I have zero pics of the evening! A bunch of the Jones' came in on Wednesday and we partied until the wee hours at my parents house. Jan, Brian & Cherrianne, and Wade, Hollie & Carson all came in for an extra long weekend. We did puzzles, board games, card games and ate very yummy food until past 1 am! Chels, Curt, Mark, Megan, Sheldon, Crew, my Mom, and even my Dad joined the fun!!! It was a great way to ring in the new year!

#9- Baby shower of the century- It was just perfect! On Jan 3rd I had a shower at my moms- thrown by all the clouse girls. Everything was perfect- from the decorations and fabulous food to the great company and adorable gifts! I had such a great time. Thank you everyone who came and thanks to my awesome mom & sisters for hosting the little par-tay. AND a HUGE thanks to my mother and sister-in-laws for making the trip from UT just for this... I definitely felt loved! I just may have gotten THE cutest most cozy blankets ever- who knew I had so many talented sewers and knitters around me.... I think it is my turn to learn how to make some of these!

I didn't realize this until I saw these pics... I really am prego- this shirt just makes me look HUGE everywhere!! Here are some random pics from the adorable shower:

#10- Happy Birthday CHRIS!! On Sunday we celebrated my BF's 26th birthday! Happy birthday to my very best friend in the whole wide world. Thanks for being an awesome and supportive husband. Thanks especially for being so nice even though the prego hormones have maybe made me a little crazy at times! I really tried to give you a little babe on your birthday, but that didnt work so well.... Olive is so lucky to have such a hardworking and loving dad. We sure are two very lucky girls! I love you!

and last but not least...

#10.5- I am having a BABY!!!! This is nuts! It seems like just yesterday we found out we were expecting... and now.... it's here. I am not going to lie... all of the anxiety has totally set in. This week has been totally overwhelming just thinking about how much our life is going to change. Don't get me wrong... I couldn't be more thrilled or excited. I lay in bed at night and day dream all day of what she is going to look like, how she is going to be... how much fun we are going to have... how cute Chris will be as a little dad.... it is always on my mind. I seriously can't wait to meet Olive- I know we are going to be bffs and then some. I just can't wait!

So the big news... we are going in tomorrow at 3 pm to be induced! Apparently my body doesn't really think it is time for her to come out yet... but she keeps getting bigger- therefore, just might not fit through my hips... so my new best friend, Dr. Beck, scheduled to take her early. We have done EVERYTHING (minus caster oil) in the books to try and get my body to get going on its own... and NOTHING has worked... so... tomorrow it is. I....can....not....wait. I seriously am thrilled! I am going to be a MOM!!!! This little thing inside of me is just ours... all the time... and I dont get to just take her home when I am done playing. That is just beyond comprehension!

here are a few pics of my "progress" over the last little while... lets just hope I can progress back to the first picture after all of this!

So..... for those of you that made it this far in my novel of a post.. congrats.. and stay tuned for pics (you better believe I've got that department covered) of our new little Olive.... She will probably make her debut Thursday morning sometime!!!

Until then... peace out folks!

a late halloween

2008-11-08T09:25:00.000-08:00

As most of you know.... Chris ADORES Halloween. It just might be the most anticipated day of the year! This year was definitely no exception.

I introduce you to my husband:

Can you tell what he is? Here is a hint: "the worst gift ever"... aka ..... a "white elephant" gift.

hahahahahahah.... he was so excited to wear his costume. We were a little late on beginning the creation, but it came together in the end.

I am not as much of a halloween lover as Chris... but I did, however, sport the appropriate colors.

hope you all had a fabulous October! Can you believe it is already November?!!! Little Olive will be here before we know it!

to all prego ladies...

2008-10-10T11:53:00.000-07:00

Tube tops (as shown below) make EXCELLENT skirts.

Thanks to Chelsea for discovering this one.

Special thanks to Forever 21 for making skanky cute clothes... that I can "modify"!

(taken Tuesday at our YW fall retreat)

Happy Friday!

new, new, new

2008-10-06T11:10:00.000-07:00

Hello!! Remember me? Let me introduce myself... My name is Auburn.... and I am a "productive avoider". When there is something I KNOW I NEED to do... but totally dont want to.... I do something totally productive while completely avoiding the thing I NEED to really be DOING. Like this BLOG, for example! I know, I do so good and then I totally neglect and do so bad!! There has been a TON going on around our little abode lately... spare time is hard to find these days! So enough excuses and disclaimers... here is a quick, TOP 10 list for ya of the new and exciting things happening in our neck of the woods

1. First of all, remember that time we told you we were having a BOY?! Well, come to find out this week.... it is actually a GIRL!!!! So, little Lincoln is going to have to wait cause Olive is coming instead! It was kind of a surprise. to say the least, but we are THRILLED nonetheless. I absolutely cannot wait to meet this little girl. I not-so-secretly hope she has some rockin red hair from me and some curls from her dad. It feels like January is so far away, but I am way past the half way mark! Here is a picture of me last week after we heard the big news! I was exactly 25 weeks, I think.

Yes, this really is what I see when I look down! I am blaming it on the fact that there isnt much room up and down for this little girl to go... so she is forced to go out... and I mean really out.

Being prego is so much fun. Granted, its had its moments when I just am not LOVING life 100%, but those are few. I LOVE feeling her move and kick and "swim" around in there. Its the best feeling in the world. I seriously can't wait to meet this little babe! We are thrilled and so anxious to meet little Olive!

{Olive was actually Chris' grandma's name. Olive Wise Davies. When he told me that... I just fell in L.O.V.E}

Of course we had to go and get Olive an outfit to celebrate!

2. This is MUCH overdue, but my ROCKIN' husband graduated!!! Seriously, the smartest guy I know. In August Chris graduated with a double bachelors in Political Science and Italian with a special International Studies certificate.

PURE. GENIUS. Working, and double majoring, and still graduating with a 3.97!! Chris you are awesome. I sure am one lucky girl!! Thanks for working so hard!!! Thanks for rockin' my world.

3. Just after graduation Chris applied EVERYWHERE looking for the perfect job for our little family right now. He got hired on at a law firm in downtown Phoenix called Lewis and Roca as a "Filing Clerk". He is the best little filer there is. He is still working at FedEx in the evenings and will ENJOY waking up at 6, leaving the house in church clothes, going to L&R, eating lunch in his car at Taco Bell, going straight to FedEx, changing into FedEx clothes, and working at FedEx till 8, and then finally strolling in our front door around 9 or so EVERY M-F night until next august!!!

Chris, you are AWESOME! Thanks again for being such a hard worker. I've said it before, but I really am one lucky girl!

4. While my husband has decided to take on 2 jobs to save money for school... I have decided to eliminate one of mine!! Yes, folks... I am no longer a Costco Wholesale employee!!! WOOHOO!!!!

As of September 27th, I am my own boss!!! I am just focusing on Auburn Jones Photography and going to jump into this going full speed. Business has really picked up for me and it was getting way to crazy to schedule only around the hours I wasn't at Costco. SO... If you know anyone getting married, having a baby, or maybe just really good looking, tell them to give me a call! I am in the process of re-doing my website and it should be up and looking fabulous as ever in NO time! Wish us luck in this giant leap of faith!

5.

This one just might speak for itself. We are HOOKED!!! This show is amazing and so intense. We started from the beginning a couple weeks ago and are now on Season 3. I dont think it is much of a secret anymore, but if something ever happens to Chris.... I vote for Sayid or Jack to fill in for him while he is away!!! I just might have a REALLY big crush on Sayid.

6. Last Saturday Chris also took his big LSAT. That is the entrance exam to Law School. It was a 5 and a half hour test and each of the sections were timed.... (I cant even image). He spent so many hours studying and prepping for this test... he is relieved it is over! He started filing out applications to his top 5 pics yesterday.... so who knows what our future holds! Maybe we will be here (hopefully), or maybe we will be somewhere else... I guess we will just wait and see!

7. Seriously... how awesome was conference?! I LOVE General Conference. What an opportunity to sit and listen to instruction, inspiration, and testimony from our Prophet and his apostles from our homes. I was lucky enough to get to watch all 4 sessions and I just loved the spirit and welcoming feeling in our home all weekend. I am absolutely fascinated by Elder Ukdorf's childhood. He has more stories of growing up in WWII Germany, it is unbelievable. I feel so blessed to have grown up in America, in a safe neighborhood, and with a mom and dad who were ever present and not fighting to defend our family and freedom. I know everyone has trials,and they are all hard... but I certainly wouldn't trade mine for anyone else'. I am so grateful to a Heavenly Father who knows me personally. And for his son, Jesus Christ, who makes it possible for me to return to live with him again. He knows what I need and what I can handle. He knows my good days and my bad ones. I feel of his love everyday of my life. I know that he hears and answers my prayers. I am so grateful for Pres. Monson. I know he is a true and living prophet of God. It is amazing how blessed we really are. Life really is good.

Chris and I have started our own little family tradish of waking up and making a big breakfast before Conference starts on Sunday. This year was eggs, hashbrowns, oj and cinnamon swirl french toast.... with sugar cookies for dessert! Delish!

I realized I only listed 7 things... but those were big things... so I think it should count as all 10.

For those of you who made it this far.... probably Chelsea, Mom, twinners, maybe Shanell if she isnt reading a book.... you guys rock, and probably already knew everything listed above :). To the rest of the blogging community that skimmed.... hope my life is somewhat intersting! Chris and I sure think it is.

Have a happy monday and 26th week of pregnancy!

Go Cougs!

2008-09-14T10:59:00.000-07:00

Rise and shout ladies and gentlemen, the cougars are out. What a great victory on saturday by those Cougars from BYU over the UCLA Bruins! There's an epidemic sweeping the nation, and it's BYU football. Cougar fever is very contagious and it's coming your way real soon.

HAPPY 19TH TWINNERS!

2008-09-08T09:45:00.000-07:00

Well September is officially underway... meaning the birthday madness has begun! Julie kicked it off on Saturday with her birthday, she is now 25! So a BIG shout out to Julie for being our Favorite sister-in-law and for marrying our FAVORITE brother! Also for giving us the stinking cutest nephew!! So Happy Birthday Julie!!

Now for the drum role please......
That's right Ladies and Gents your favorite twins are 19 today!!

Well where do we begin?

So basically M & A are responsible for keeping everyone updated on the latest fashions, and always giving their comments on new outfits. They pretty much keep the fam in Style.

They also love to have a good time!! Anyone who knows them can attest to that. Movies, shopping, lunch dates, pedicures. If you want to go they will always accompany you anywhere.

They love RAP!!! Pretty funny huh? When driving and jamming out in the car it is a garantee that Little Wayne or 50 cent will eventually make it's way to the top of the list!! (no worries always edited versions are played

Amanda LOVES Golden Spoon, I think she keeps them in business. Megan LOVES Mark, I think she keeps him pretty happy.

And they both are OBSESSED with our niece Eliza. They are always giving her all sorts of food to eat because it is their favorite thing to watch. Come over any Sunday and that's what you'll see. Megan and Amanda just watching her eat!!!

Pretty much they are some of the best sisters anyone could ask for!! Happy Birthday M & A, we love ya!

THE BIG 5-0!!

2008-08-17T22:14:00.000-07:00

Just so you all know, it's me again. Auburn informed me the other day that this is now "our" blog so I need to get busy on posting. So I will keep everyone informed.

Our dad's birthday was on the 15th so of course we had to celebrate. So the whole fam went to dinner at The Keg. It is so fun to all go out together and enjoy each others company. I don't know about all of you, but we think our family is pretty fun!! Just ask us and we will tell you :-).

So some of our favorite things about our dad are...

He is so handy (can make anything, even if it isn't in the most time efficient manner)
He is such a great example to us all
He treats our mom like a Queen
He can multi-task (watch t.v. and "rest his eyes" at the same time)
He always treats everyone around him with so much respect
He never talks bad about other people, always has something nice to say
He borrows our moms reading glasses at restaurants to see the menu, Not many men can pull off the leopard print!
He is still alive after raising 5 girls.. that alone is a fete in itself!!

Pretty much we think our dad rocks and is AWESOME!!! Happy be-lated birthday dad!!! We love you...

it's a ......

2008-07-31T13:24:00.001-07:00

BOY!

Today Chris and I went for my 16 week check up... and Dr. Beck was so kind and did a quick ultrasound just for kicks.

He said he is "90% sure it is definitely a BOY"!! In 4 weeks we go for the BIG ultrasound with the regular and 3D version.

I would totally be lying if I said I didn't cry when I saw our little guy on the screen! Sometimes I just feel like its all in my head and I am just making myself sick... it just feels good to know there really is something, someone, in there! Its amazing.

To celebrate, we treated ourselves to Rubio's (of course) for lunch and then went to purchase our first "boy" baby something.... and ended up with this ADORABLE blanket from tar-gey with cute little cars all over it.

We are SOO EXCITED! And cant wait to see this little guy!
Bring on the boy stuff! WooHoo!

cute, cute girls!

2008-07-29T15:00:00.000-07:00

as you can see... I have tied myself to my computer lately to get some much needed editing done.

Here is my FAVORITE shot I have edited this week...
out of a newborn, family and a reception!

and... its certainly doesn't hurt that I am related to these ADORABLE girls!

okay, and I couldn't just post the older two girls without including one of Sophia and Eliza!

little crewton

2008-07-29T11:39:00.000-07:00

I am LAME and just finished these pics of my newest little nephew, CREW!

He is adorable and we are so glad there is now a BOY grandson on my side of the fam!

To view a slideshow of his pics... go to the clients section of my site and the password is "crew"

here is his adorable (if I do say so myself) birth announcement I put together... that I may re-create for my own baby!

Enjoy!

they are only getting tighter...

2008-07-20T11:20:00.001-07:00

this was last week right before church...

looks like a totally cute outfit, right?!

looks like it fits like a glove, right?!

well, you are SO wrong.... but aren't I tricky?!

I have a feeling my clothes are only going to get tighter.........

we LOVE Big Gar

2008-07-20T11:04:00.001-07:00

So... we get a call on Thursday to see if we had plans for Saturday night. Our friends Britany and Jeremy (THE Jeremy that set us up on our first "date") possibly had some tickets to the Dbacks game... I said we would love to go... and didnt think twice about it. WELL.... come to find out... Big Gar (Gary & Bev Wilkinson- who Chris lived with when he first moved down here) has some AMAZING connections... I dont even know how... but he ALWAYS comes up with some awesome spur-of-the-moment tickets... To OUR advantage, Bev & Gar had to go help Kellen and Camille move down here from Utah this weekend... (WOOOHOOOO we are so excited!!!) ... and couldnt use the tickets he had for the game.

SO... now that you are filled in... Britany got the tickets and invited Chris and I to tag along. Our tickets were $360 a piece, so we assumed they would be pretty good... and they came with a valet parking pass.... but we had NO idea how good they really would be.......

As you can see.... these tickets were NO disappointment! Yes, we were FRONT ROW. Like, THE front... there was not a seat closer!

We had such a good time. It even ended up being a really close game, too. And, Britany and Jeremy went to Taylorsville with Brandon Lyon.... and Chris later played for that same team. So it was fun to be at a game he closed in.

(Yes, my husband thinks he is THE ROCK with the raised eye brow and all... wow)

Thank you, Thank you BIG GAR... you & your connections are amazing.... and THANKS to Britany and Jeremy for inviting us to go! If only we were ballin' enough to sit there every time!

Catching up on some TAG's

2008-07-08T08:35:00.000-07:00

Here's how this "Tag" works. List 3 joys, 3 fears, 3 goals, 3 current obsessions/collections, 3 surprising facts about yourself. Then tag 5 people at the end of your post.

3 JOYS...
My Faith
My husband (and this little baby inside me)
My home

3 FEARS...
Losing my husband
Losing my parents
Losing my sisters (okay, and you too, sheldon)

3 GOALS...
Support my family with my photography business
Label everything in my house before the baby comes :)
Get back on my fabulous cooking/laundry schedule that has been ignored the last 6 weeks or so

3 CURRENT OBSESSIONS...
Sleeping- for the first time in my life!
Eating... non-stop
The Bachelorette and SYTYCD... OF COURSE!

3 SURPRISING FACTS ABOUT MYSELF...
Here's a shocker.... I am totally OCD
I would LOVE to redecorate my house every year. OR... have several houses I could just decorate all the time. I LOVE to do that.
I LOVE to bake... but just like to cook. There is something about walking in your house to the smell of freshly baked goods that is so peaceful.

Alright, I TAG Shanell G, Lana, and the Twinners.

AND NOW

I've been tagged....A-Z about me
A*age-21
B*birthday-March 1
C*candy or cake-this is tough... candy: starbursts, twix, peanutbutter m&m's or cake:chocolate, pumpkin, cheery chip, texas sheet cake
D*dessert you love-cinder cake, creme brule, brownie sundae
E*easiest person to talk to-chris, mom, shanell
F*favorite song- any michael buble
G*gold or silver-depends on the outfit
H*habit-pushing my glasses up
I*instruments you play-does saxaphone in 5th grade count? Or piano before I begged to quit?
J*Job title-photographer/photo lab tech
K*kids-one on the way!
L*love or lust- that would be L.O.V.E.
M*Married, single or taken-married and taken, I guess
N*next to you-chris j
O*one wish-that someday we will be comfortable... not rich, but just comfortable and have no worries
P*person you called last-chris
Q*Quotes-oohhh.... I love way to many. I do enjoy a good one from Pres. Hinkley, though
R*reasons to smile-cause life just ROCKS right now
S*steak or pork-steak for sure... but only on occasion. I prefer chicken
T*turns you on-tickling my back- I know, I am wild and crazy :)
U*unique talent- folding my laundry just like the Gap
V*vegetable- corn or green beans
W*woke up at what time-8
X*xrays you have had-just teeth, I guess
Y*your favorite color-green, lime green, teal green, kelly green, and green
Z*zodiac sign-pisces

I tag Shanell G, Lana, and the Twinners... again!

so props to anyone who actually read all of this!

have a happy tuesday!

10 reasons to be HAPPY

2008-07-03T23:19:00.000-07:00

#1- As most of you have noticed... I have totally been m.i.a. as of late... and am feeling the urge to be social again! PAR-TAY!

Thanks for all the comments on the last post! It is so exciting to see that a) people actually read this and b) that you all are as excited as we are for this little bambino!

#2- So other than being sick/puking/dry heaving/falling asleep as soon as I get home from work/adjusting to the tight pants that barely button.... and having to cop out of girls camp because of this..... I actually have been super busy with photography. I really do love this hobby turned business. It is so fun... but lately... I feel as though the computer is attached to my body... my eyes hurt from staring at it all day!... BUT.... I am almost caught up and that is reason to CEL-E-BRATE good times c'mon!

{So, for those who are interested... here are the passwords to several galleries I have completed these last week or so...
Go to my site and click on the "clients" section... here is a list of the fun ones: goodman, barker, haven, courtney, payne, hatch.. and I think that is it}

#3- Well, since girls camp just wasn't in my cards this year, I have decided to accompany my husband to Utah to see the in-laws for the 4th. I am super excited to get away... I am not taking my camera or my computer!!! WooHoo! And, we are so excited to see family and friends who we don't get to see as often as we would like!

#4- Tomorrow is the 4th! What a great holiday! My mom might be one of the most patriotic and America-loving people I know... so this one is extra special! Hope you all have a fabulous 4th!

#5- Mark (megan's missionary) gets home at 12 tomorrow!!! So exciting!!! Hopefully we see him when we arrive in SLC... we just might!

#6- Only makes me happy because I know it will make my mom, chelsea, and megan laugh.... and I learned a good lesson

FOR THE RECORD:

These are NOT, I repeat, NOT, NOT, NOT tastey little cinnamon twists like Taco Bell has.

These are, in fact, the most disgusting, rancid, horrible, nasty things I have ever seen in my life... and have since learned they are (gag me) pork rinds from Food City. (Insert throw-up noise, or, in my case, real puke... here) Happy to know that I can NOT go to Food City while really having some prego nausea issues!

#7- We purchased our first little outfit for this little boy or girl... and I cant wait till my real live baby can wear it! And my parents got us our first little onesie outfit from Boston! I can hardly wait! Hope January gets here quick!

#8- I get to veg this weekend and not do ANY work... can't wait

#9- I get to veg this weekend and not do any work... and hopefully eat some delicious meals... I didnt have to cook or prepare....

#10- Seriously.... I can't even say it enough... but...

I am SOOO HAPPY to have a fabulous husband.... who has seriously risen to the occasion lately. I haven't been feeling too hot... and he has been so good at making dinners (and the BEST oatmeal) and keeping the house clean... and just being all around fabulous.

Thanks CDJ.. I sure do L-O-V-E you!

I LOVE being Happy!! Happy 4th!!

exciting news!

2008-06-17T17:16:00.001-07:00

well, most of you already know... but now it is OFFICIAL!

Baby Jones is due January 18th... and we are super stoked.

This means I am ten weeks and SO ready to be done being sick and puking at Costco :)

But NO complaints. this is totally what we want & if it means being sick... bring it on.

This is the shirt I wore to dinner when we told our families. I know, it is pretty fabulous.

(... it is definitely from the Air Brush Shak at Arizona Mills - dont be jealous.)

Well, there you have it! This will probably explain why I have been a hermit for the last little while. Can't wait till the belly is super big!

the summer shave

2008-05-30T22:52:00.000-07:00

So... this is Chris when I am with him:

This is Chris when he is with his friends:

Then who is THIS, you might ask?!

Well folks, this is my husband

He is determined to shave his head once a year
(despite my disapproval)

so, this year.... we bargained that he could shave it....
IF ..... I could do the cut.

(this is on our way to the Memorial Day BBQ at my parents)

Curtis Clouse's reaction.... c l a s s i c .

*Dont worry... it was a complete shave before the night was over. good times.

It's Me Again!!!!!

2008-05-13T20:44:00.000-07:00

So as always Auburn is super busy again!! So ladies and gents, I am back. Since her last post a lot has happened. First I hope everyone checked out her website!!! It is FAB!! If you haven't shame on you, you should go to it now. Also, Chris finished another semester! YEAH only one more to go!!!!! We went to California. We means Chris, Auburn, Curtis, and Chelsea. We went to my friend Kallie's wedding in San Diego. It was a total blast. I must say Auburn and I make a great team. I did hair, she did photos. No worries, they are so awesome. Plus it helps to have a great looking bride and groom. We also celebrated my b-day in Carlsbad at a restaurant called Jays. We have been going there for years. It was so yummy. Thanks to Chris and Burn it was a nice birthday treat!!

After Cali our nephew Crew was born. He is Sheldon and Julie's baby. Not to brag or anything but he is pretty stinking cute!! I am a bad aunt though and I have no pictures to post of him, so go to the twinners blog to check him out!!! Since then things have started to slow down a bit, but not by much. Now next week we have the MEGANDA'S Graduation!!!! Yeah!! They are so excited and it will be the last time the whole fam is at Mesa High Stadium. They are the 3rd generation and last to graduate in my immediate family. So CARRY ON Jackrabbits!!!!!

Well, I think that is almost everything!! Hope you enjoy the post. Have a great day blog stalking!!!!

website

2008-04-24T14:59:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to let you know that my website is finally LIVE!!!

www.auburnjonesphotography.com is up and running, and the blog is on its way!

Please check it out and let me know what you think!

I am excited and anxious to fill my schedule full of photo shoots, so please pass the word along to your friends and family members.

Thank you for your support in this hobby... turned passion... turned business!

Love you all!!!!

here we go

2008-04-04T18:57:00.000-07:00

I am sorry, but when I sit at my computer like 10 hours a day working.... the last thing I really WANT to do when I am done is tell you all about my lame life! I guess I just needed a little encouragement... Thanks to Max's mom, Chelsea

Anywho.. I guess some people do really care about the ins and outs of two Newlywed-ish kids like us... so I have compiled a list of ten fun things I/we have done since the last post....

in no particular order...

1) made some very yummy treats for family and friends

2) hung out with some of my favorite little peeps, ever

3) had a fabulous easter celebration with my fam.. sophia was sharin' the love

4) experienced SIN CITY for the first time in my life! I LOVED the M&M factory off the strip and purchased the cutest m&m color ever

5) I have patiently, and NOT-SO-PATIENTLY, waited for my stinkin website to go live!! Ahhh... I will post when it really IS live... we are getting close!

6) Photographed a fabulous wedding in California- what an attractive couple!

7) Had a blast visiting friends and family in UT

8) enjoyed these fun houseguests for march madness... it was madness : )

9) thanks to our house guests above... we have watched this movie four times in the last two weeks.....
Its a good laugh... I highly recommend if you are in a silly mood

10) did this number to my foot LAST Tuesday.... still blue and slightly swollen today (wednesday)- no fun

I know, totally lame... but its the best I could do! Keep posted and hopefully I will have more exciting news later!

Just Too Busy!!!

2008-04-03T18:09:00.000-07:00

So Auburn has definitely been swamped lately... We all know she is the queen of everything!! So I have taken it upon myself to update her blog. I know everyone keeps getting excited to see if she has posted anything new. So ladies and gentlemen, mostly ladies, today is you lucky day!!!

I will be so kind to fill you in on the latest. Auburn went to Cali for Spring Break with her hubby Chris to shoot a wedding. Apparently from what I hear it was Fab... Location was great, bride and groom so cute, and great weather. From there they went to Las Vegas {Sin City}! They caught up with Chris's uncle or cousin? I don't remember. Sorry, I promise I was trying to listen. Then to Utah to surprise the Jones Family and all the friends. They had a great time!!! They came back home and threw themselves right back into life. Then just a couple weeks later Chris's friends came back down here to visit. Ok, they wanted to come here for the March Madness??? You know the college basketball playoffs. All I know is that if I ever live out of state and come back to visit. Auburn's house will be my first choice. Sorry mom! She is the Queen of Entertaining, Hostess with the Mostess, Martha in training. You get my drift. She is a fab cook and she makes all sorts of yummy food. So anyways they were in town for about 5 days and just left. Auburn and Chris are now back to work and school, and Auburn is trying to patiently wait for her website to launch!!!

So, since I don't have pictures of Auburn and Chris on my comp, I will post pictures of the newest addition to the family ZOEY!!! She is pretty stinking cute and I think that she is really pushing Auburn toward wanting a dog. Auburn says she'll only get a dog if it won't go to the bathroom. Period. So we shall see what the future brings!!!

By the way, this is Chelsea. Auburn's fabulous older sister {whose life is not as hectic as hers}. Hopefully I haven't missed much. Enjoy, and don't worry I have taken it upon myself to make sure she is current. Whether she likes it or not!!!!

one fabulous weekend

2008-02-04T10:24:00.000-08:00

This weekend was great! Last minute Cherianne and Brian (Chris' Sister and Bro-in-law) decided to sneak away from California and come stay with us! After a fun day of hanging out with my favorite little friends- all the Gambell girls- C&B arrived late Friday evening. Chris and I were so excited to hang out with them for a couple days. Here are a few highlights from the fun-filled weekend:

Saturday was Maya's birthday party. We headed over to Bounce U for her bday celebration. Here are a few of my favorite pics I got while I was there.

After the party we went to my parents to watch Pres. Hinckley's funeral and later that afternoon my dad took us flying to show Cherianne and Brian a greater view of the valley. Might I add.... My dad makes a FABULOUS tour guide! I think he should quit his day job and pursue that one for reals.

It was great to have C&B come to Chris' softball games that night.. I finally had someone to sit with!

Sunday was a great morning... I forgot it was fast Sunday and woke up early to make a very yummy breakfast for our guests of eggs, hash browns, sausage, french toast, orange smiles and fresh OJ.... whoops!! That afternoon we went to "some" of church and then over to Gary and Bev's for a Super Bowl party! Gary and Bev are quite the entertainers... and never disappoint when it comes to the food- my favorite part! My assignment was cupcakes for Maya's actual birthday. She turned THREE years old! {NOTE the adorable runner my mom sewed for me this week...I love it!!! She seriously ROCKS! And the amazing green 3-tier whatever holder!!! From Shanell as an early bday present... she also ROCKS!}

While the game was going we sang "happy birthday" and let Maya open her presents. We seriously LOVE Maya and Kenyon... they have the cutest personalities and Maya is just hilarious.

After that Brian and Cherianne had to head back and we finished the game and returned home as well.

All in all, it was a very fun weekend and we hope to see Cherianne and Brian again SOON!!! This weekend Jan, my m-i-l is coming to stay from Friday till Wednesday.... now I am going to have to come up with fun things for us to do to top this past weekend!

Hope you all have a happy Monday!

Tribute to Pres. Hinckley

2008-01-27T19:49:00.000-08:00

June 23, 1910 - January 27, 2008

Some of our favorite quotes from the great man and prophet:

"Life is to be enjoyed, not just endured"

"People wonder what we do for our women. I tell you what we do: we get out of their way and look with wonder at what they are accomplishing."

"This is a season to be strong. It is a time to move forward without hesitation, knowing well the meaning, the breadth, and the importance of our mission.... We have nothing to fear. God is at the helm."

fun pics

2008-01-27T19:27:00.000-08:00

Well, these are a week old... but still pretty cute! I shot Sheldon and Julie's prego photo shoot on Monday. They are expecting Baby Crew to arrive sometime in March/April... depending on how long he lasts in there! Here are a few of my fav's:

I also got to take some fun pics of my adorable mini bff's Sophia and Eliza last weekend, as well.... I don't mean to have "favorites".... BUT... I just LOVE Sophia!!! I could seriously hang out with her all day.... everyday! She is so fun and happy and has the best little belly laugh ever... Here are some GREAT shots of my little friend and little "Wooza" (aka Eliza).

recent fav's

2008-01-25T22:44:00.000-08:00

As many of you know... I have been plugging away on my soon-to-go-live website for {auburnjones}photography... HOWEVER... it just cant seem to get done soon enough!! I put this sample together and have been sending it to those who have contacted me interested in my photography... So I thought I would share it with all of you.

It was nearly impossible to only pick 17 of my fav's all taken within the last 8 or 9 weeks. If you didnt make the cut... its is only because of time and lack of room!

I like things fun, spontaneous.... and full of life!

... "We do not remember days... we remember MOMENTS"
-cesare pavese

To me, THESE are the moments worth remembering. Thats my goal every time I hold my camera to my eye.

Hope ya like!

Happy Birthday Chris!

2008-01-11T09:41:00.000-08:00

So today is Christopher David's twenty fifth birthday! He is officially half-way to half-way dead! It is crazy to have a husband that old... though I know that isnt old at all...and I am just very young!

Here are a few things I LOVE about Chris:

He is GREAT with kids... and is going to be the funnest DAD!

He ALWAYS knows how to have a good time... no matter what the situation.

He treats me like a QUEEN! He is so good to me... and I couldnt ask for more!

The man LOVES halloween! Its sorta contageous!

He LOVES sports... and is good at every single one. AND... he is very patient and lets me ask as many sports questions as I need to!

Chris LOVES his MOM... and considers her one of his very best friends!

He ALWAYS knows how to make me laugh... especially when I really dont want to!! {ps... I really HATED his mustache!!}

Happy Birthday Chris! I love you and hope this year is the BEST one yet!!!

TaDa!

2008-01-09T22:24:00.001-08:00

You are probably as shocked as I am... but we are still alive! It has been far too long since our last post... and life has just been crazy! However, we are now recovered and ready to join the blogging world once more!

Lets see.... in a nutshell... since halloween our lives have been turned upside down then rightside up! Here are a few things we have enjoyed since then

1) a FABULOUS Thanksgiving in Salt Lake with the Jones Family & my first (and possibly last) Turky Bowl experience at the crack of dawn and 19 degrees farenheit

2) doing 24 photo shoots and who knows how many cards in the months on November and December while working 40 hours a week at Costco : )

3) Chris LOVED finals amidst his hefty FedEx 55 hour work weeks during the holidays

4) moving out of our humble apartment and into the HOUSE I have laid in bed thinking about for the last 6 months!!! WooHoo!!!

5) an AMAZING first Christmas together in AZ & being our own sneaky Santa Clauses with a bonus TDF Christmas Eve at my Moms and extra bonuses from my fabulous in-laws

6) having a house full of boys for the first time when Parker, Sean, and Chad visited with special appearances from Colby every now and then.. complete with a great new years eve celebration

7) going to the fiesta bowl (my third ever football game with Chris) & some friends :) (1- last years fiesta bowl, 2- byu vs. uoa... Im pathetic)

8) procrastinating the other things I should be doing right now... to actually update this stinkin blog!

Though I wish I could put every great/funny/momentous picture since the last post.... blogger is just WAY TOO SLOW... and I tend to loose my patience with it very fast ; ) so I am going to just give you pics of the house for now so Jan, my m-i-l can finally see!!

We have lived here for 4 weeks since yesterday... and it is not TOTALLY complete... but we are pretty thrilled with it so far! All we need is a few things here and there... and we will be set. I tried to use as much natural lighting as possible when taking the pics...as not to shift any of the colors... but I am sure you get the idea!

Much love and hellos to all of you I have missed for over 2 whole months!

Hope you enjoy!!!

Happy Halloween!

2007-11-01T21:49:00.001-07:00

As many of you know... Chris LOVES Halloween! This just might be his favorite holiday. He has quite the reputation for wearing hilarious costumes... and this year... he held true to the rumors! I think the last time I dressed up was in 7th grade. However, I gave into the pressure and sported a fabulous costume this year with my Man!! (My mom made this costume for Megan when she went to Disney World earlier in the month- Its a good thing she is absolutely amazing at sewing/everything she does.... She puts Martha to SHAME!)

Here are some pics from the fabulous night!

I present "BIRD MAN", the self proclaimed {and titled} superhero & MINNIE MOUSE (and a terrified Sophia who didn't know what to think of Uncle Chris' weird outfit)

This year my parents served homemade rootbeer and doughnuts -super yummy- instead of candy. Here are some shots of the "gang" hanging out on the drive way. Julie/the Babe was not feeling too hot so she went home early, and we all know where Sheldon and Curtis were- PLAYING XBOX, of course!

Happy ending to a GREAT night!

Super busy... and LOVING it!

2007-10-25T23:24:00.000-07:00

I guess THE time of year for family photo shoots has ARRIVED! I have been super busy lately with photo shoots that I have forgotten to blog about our life!!! No time for that right now... but here are some of my favorite recent pics in the mean time!

The Blake Family

a SELECT few from the Smith family shoot- (not to be fully revealed till their FABULOUS card!)

and last, but not least.... Maya & Kenyon's Halloween pics!

There were TONS of cute images to choose from... but I put these three into a little "mailer" for Britany to go out to their extended family members...

I LOVE these KIDS! Could they honestly be any cuter?! Don't think so!

TRUNK SHOW!!

2007-10-17T22:20:00.000-07:00

So, as many of you know... tomorrow- THURSDAY - we are hosting a HUGE TRUNK SHOW at my Mom's house. Shabby Apple Clothing, Layers Clothing, and Sashay Jewelry will all be there. If you are reading this- you are invited! If you are interested in CUTE and TRENDY MODEST clothing- you are invited... ALL GIRLS are invited!! Hope to see you there!!!!!!

Fav's from recent shoots-

2007-10-17T21:43:00.001-07:00

I've been pretty busy lately... which is GREAT! I love it... and I love this hobby that I have- It might be the best one ever. Here are a couple of my favorite images from my most recent shoots

Wendt Family

Chloe Sue Rogers

Ikea Trip!

2007-10-17T21:16:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday... (I know I am WAY behind)... as many of us Clouse girls that could... went to IKEA! Unfortunately Julie had to work... and Megan was in Disney World- but we dont feel bad for her ;) I was so excited... I am pretty sure I didn't sleep Wednesday night. I know Ikea isn't practical for EVERYTHING... but it makes up for it in the TONS of cute and adorable things they do have that are PRACTICAL & CHEAP! I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE organizational/storage things/containers/boxes/compartments with all my little heart. I was in heaven. I even had my own photography money to spend on whatever I wanted! I was thrilled.

Here are a couple highlights from the "event"... the absolute best was Camilla lounging on Chelsea's pile o' pillows... completely relaxed.

Sophia, on the other hand... was almost impossible to contain- in & out of the basket/stroller.

Can't forget the posing Savannah...

And, I know I look like an ALIEN in this picture (thanks Amanda) but I thought it was hilarious that Sophia was trying to shove the dough ball from lunch down her shirt! This girl is somethin' else!!!

Eliza and I relaxing after a hard day of PLAY!

Conference & Canadian Thanksgiving

2007-10-09T22:53:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was UNREAL! I was somehow given Friday afternoon through Tuesday morning off without even requesting it... so Chris made a few little phone calls and within a couple of minutes we had arranged to spend the weekend in Utah! Not only did we get to see family and friends, but it was GENERAL CONFERENCE and CANADIAN THANKSGIVING!!! Two of the biggest things to hit the Jones Household since who knows when.

We flew in Friday afternoon and had a fabulous dinner with Tom, Jan, and Kimmie. Then that night we surprised Chris' friends- who had no idea we were in town. Saturday was simply amazing. A family friend was so kind and hooked us up with FABULOUS last-minute tickets to both the morning and afternoon sessions of Conference! Trying to be prepared and ready to leave early the next morning... we went to set out or church clothes... and realize... Chris forgot his suit! (as in Coat and pants... not swimming trunks!) It was around 1 am when this discovery was made, SO... we set our alarm for way early in hopes of finding a suit before 8:30 am! We woke up and left the house- I was totally dressed and Chris was in basketball shorts, church socks adn shoes, adn a button up white shirt. I had no clue where to go other than TARGET!!! You guys... I think it was meant to be! We found a fantastic suit- navy blue with white-ish pin stripes in his size... and both pieces fit fabulously! Suit pants and jacket for $90! Can't beat that... I think it is my new favorite one of his suits, too! Chris wore the suit to the checkout where we paid and clipped off all the tags. Because of the madness of downtown SLC right now, Tom dropped us off around 9:00 and picked us up at 4:30. Can I tell you how much I love Temple Square?! It is amazing. I would LOVE to someday be a little missionary couple there! But even more than I love Temple Square... I love CONFERENCE! The Spirit in there was awesome. It felt so good to personally sustain the new men to their callings and positions. I love President Hinckley, too. The man... is AMAZING! I can't even believe he is 97! I aspire to be as happy and joyful as he is right now, like today... let alone when I am in my 90's! And, I have to say... Elder Holland's talk was just awesome. I love the way he delivers a straight forward, to-the-point message. And Elders Bednar and Uchtdorf! I could go on and on. It is so obvious these men are called of God. There is no doubt in my mind! And can I say that Elder Wirthlin did an incredible job. He was determined to finish, and that he did! I would have sat down as soon as I could have gotten "amen" out of my mouth if I were in his shoes... and he read his entire talk. I seriously love that man.

Conference was Amazing and the Tabernacle Choir is unreal! I cant sit through conference and not get little tears in my eyes. This Gospel is so true, I absolutely love it!

Here is a little picture of us outside the Conference Center. It was FREEZING and pouring rain- so not my style... but atleast I got to bust out my boots and coat!!!

The rest of Saturday was very chill and relaxing. While the boys went to Priesthood I hung out with my sister-in-laws and Em, Tyler, and Ashley- aka... the life(s) of the party.

Saturday night we went to Chris' friend house- Chad Lucking's... where I found out he hung out with 5 girls I went to high school with the night before! Things got even weirder when one of my 2nd cousins showed up as well. And to top it off... 2 guys I went to high school with showed up after that! Here I am.. in the middle of Daybreak, UT... with these random connections! It IS a SMALL world, after all!

Sunday was awesome, as well. This time we watched Conference from the Jones' on Jan's oh-so-comfy new sofa. It was fun hanging out INSIDE all day while it was wet and cold outside. : ) We even got to practice some cheerleading moves with Emily- who is going to be a cheerleader for Halloween-

To make Sunday even BETTER... we celebrated Canadian Thanksgiving that evening. (Jan was born and raised in Toronto) Now... this isnt just an ordinary dinner... Jan goes alllll out. We had Turkey, mashed potatoes, rolls, stuffing, ... the works... even homemade pie for dessert. I was in heaven! After this weekend, I can truly say i am thankful for celebrating Canadian Thanksgiving! All the more excited am I for the regular Thanksgiving!

We flew back home yesterday... to the mid-90's... where we dont experience the season called Fall at all.... We love visiting Utah... and hopefully we will be back up for Thanksgiving! Thanks, again, Jones' for your hospitallity! We LOVE you all!

Fun homework assignments

2007-10-09T22:45:00.000-07:00

Can I just admit... I LOVE PHOTOSHOP!? I do... I have a not-so-secret obsession with it...which is probably the reason I LOVE my photoshop class. I have so much fun with the assignments- I cant help it. So, by request, Shanell wanted to see these couple assignments:

and yes, my teacher asked who Gordon B. Hinckley was... what an opportunity to share! : )

I am consistent at being INCONSISTENT!

2007-10-09T22:27:00.001-07:00

So... I know I am totally lame and my posts are few and far between... BUT I guess a few exciting things in our life have happened lately that I would like to share with the 6 people that look at this : )

Well, I think everyone kinda knows... but we bought a HOUSE! Woohoo! It is on Queen Creek and Ellsworth and will be completed in December. We are SO excited and I am pretty sure I lay in bed EVERY night thinking about how and what I will use to decorate it with. I cannot wait! We are super and excited and Chris, especially, is excited to park in a garage for the first time in his life! So... being the nerd that I am.... here are a few pics of the progress.... We haven't been for 2 weeks now, so who knows what is looks like!!!

This picture is of another house in the subdivision.... I think this is what ours should look like when it is complete

SO yeah... can't wait till we are in. Im sure we will update you all on its progress!

Chris is a MACHINE!!!!

2007-09-16T23:04:00.000-07:00

So..this was a pretty big weekend for us!... We experienced our first triathlon! Don't get your hopes up... I know what you are thinking... and NO, I did not run a tri... I watched my machine-of-a-husband compete in one! Chris competed in, and FINISHED, his FIRST Triathlon! He did so good, and I was so proud of him! Being as crazy and busy as He is... Chris had very limited time to train before the big race! (Most people train for months before these things!) Our friend, Jeremy Galovich- yes, THE man who set us up on our first date ;), convinced Chris to do it with him. Anyways... the race was in Anthem on Saturday afternoon. We drove there and met up with Jeremy and his cousin Jared at the starting spot and got the boys set up and ready to go. This was sort-of a backwards triathlon. First they did a 3 mile run, then a 14 mile bike ride, and ended with a 1 mile swim. (I guess they usually start with the swim.) I had a great time watchin the guys and cheering for them. Jeremy's wife, Britany, and I made quite the cheerleaders/coaches! The weather was awesome- mind you , still 102 degrees, but overcast with a slight breeze- we were very pleased.

So here are the guys before the big start- the REALLY cute shorts they are wearing are called "tri shorts"- made specifically for running, biking and swimming without having to change. I got a kick out of 'em. :)

Here's Chris coming back from the run, about to grab his bike

Off he goes- I love the determination on his face! The gloves top it off!

Here he is tapping the finish line- he was SO tired after the swim... I couldnt believe how great he did for so little training!

Crossing under the official "finish line" banner... and a pic with me- the wife :)

and finally, the three CHAMPS- post race- still smiling!

Out of the three guys, Chris was the only one in the "Clydesdale" bracket, which is for 200+ lbs... although after the race, I am sure he would have fit in the regular group. Jeremy, Jared and Chris all did great and finished with in 20 total minutes of each other! Not bad at all!

SO basically, folks, I LOVE my husband- not just cause he ran a Triathlon, but cause he's really cool. When he sets a goal, it doesnt matter how hard he has to work at it... he gets it done, and he ALWAYS does it his best. I sure am a lucky girl! Great job guys!

the TWINNERS are 18!!!

2007-09-16T22:40:00.000-07:00

I know I am a little behind- okay, alot behind- but sometimes school, work, and the husband come before blogging. :) Anyways... last week was the big birthday bash! Julie's b-day was on the 6th and the Twins, aka Megan and Amanda, turned 18 on the 8th. To celebrate the big days we all went to Tia Rosas for dinner and then to the bowling alley for some real fun... and topped it off with Funfetti cake and ice cream! Chris and I had such a great time and Shanell's girls were especially entertaining.

Here's Sheldon and Julie at dinner- love the smile bro.

Poor Austin- I dont think he realized what he was getting himself into when he started dating Amanda(yellow)- I guess thats the benefit of dating a twin!

Can't forget a shot of the very enthused Chris and myself

Not the best pics- but I still love them! We've got the twins TOTALLY being twins- to the "t", Chris entertaining Sophia- who, btw, insists on wearing the princess costume everywhere!- and then sophia the alien baby- who was seriously picking up the 13 lb. balls and trying to walk them to the lane to bowl all by herself. Shes 22 months old, and seriosly INSANE!

Heres a cute one of some of the girls in their bowling shoes- and, ofcourse, the blowing out of the candles! Happy bday Megan, Amanda, and Julie!!!

Labor Day weekend!

2007-09-09T09:22:00.000-07:00

This past Labor Day we went to Utah.We flew in late friday night and came home monday night. Chris claims it was to see his fam... but I know it was really so he could go to the opening BYU game! He is a die-hard fan. He was singing every fight song and doing the little cheer things the entire crowd yells... I was shocked! This was definitely my first BYU game... and 2nd football game with him ever. For a man OBSESSED with sports... he married a girl who knows NOTHING about them... and cares very little! Needless to say... we had a great time. I think I watched the dancers and cheerleaders more than the actual game.. but thats okay.

here's Hollie with Tyler- and his VERY red lips from his slushy

Earlier that same day (saturday) all of us Jones Girls (except Kimmie) went up to Swiss Days! It was so much fun. I kinda expected it to be a big flea market and boy was I wrong! This place was nuts!!! There were TONS of booths of crafts, home decor, photographers, food... and on, and on, and on!!! We had a great time. I got my first "real" painting of Christ and a picture of the SLC temple. Some amazing wrapping paper- to feed my obsession, and some halloween little guy things. It was fun spending time with my sister-in-laws and taking turns holding Ashley!

This is all of us- me, stacie, cherianne w/ ashley, and hollie.

Thanks for a fun trip to swiss days girls!

So that was Saturday- so busy and the weekend had just begun! Sunday we went to Chris' home ward and then had family dinner with everyone... Then I experienced my first "live" Fantasy Football Draft- not knowing what to expect and not knowing how LONG it would be, I agreed to go with Chris over to the Waldram's house for this so called "draft". Oh my goodness, I never knew how seriously these boys took this! There was a $25 dollar entry fee and 15 guys all squished around a table- stressed to their whits end- trying to figure out who they wanted to pick next- strategizing against the other boys, making all sorts of alliances... just to pick the 22 guys they wanted on their FANTASY team. Key word being "fantasy"!!!! I just sat their and ate the entire bag of salt water taffy- or pretty close to finishing it off! Good times- good times. I think that next year I will probably stay home while he goes to the draft... Im not sure if I could handle another one!

Monday was a great day, as well. While I slept in till 10, Chris woke up at 5 and went bike riding with Cherianne and Brian and then golfing with Kellen and Gregg. After that Jan took us to the storage unit where all of the remaining things from her parents are stored.... long story short- we went through the remaining stuff and she gave me almost a complete set of English china- the good stuff- from when she was growing up. The best part is... it is teal! Such an "auburn color"! I was so excited- and they were his Grandmas! That makes them even more special! Thanks again, Jan!

The rest of the day we spent at Gregg and Jamie's new house helping them get things clean, and hung, and just taken care of. Their house is looking SO good and we had such a good time helping them get organized.

We flew home monday night and it was back to reality tuesday morning with school and work. Too bad vacations have to come to an end! It is so fun visiting Utah and hopefully we will get to go back soon.

Photoshoot at Aunt Kathy's

2007-09-05T23:42:00.000-07:00

Last week I went to help my Aunt Kathy with a photo shoot she was doing of her kids and snuck in a few shots of my own- these were all taken with natural lighting in Kathy's amazing home...I cant believe Shaye is still in elementry school!!! She looks like a legit teenager! She is Gorgeous! I was WAY nerdy and had NO CLUE what fashion was when I was her age. This girl has it goin' on!

Cassie's Boudoir Shoot

2007-09-05T23:35:00.001-07:00

So... I have ventured into a new area of photography. My friend Cassie is prego and wanted to capture some shots of her & the belly for her husband (as a surprise) before she got "too Big"... we got together a couple weeks ago and had a really great time. Chelsea, my sister, was there to do hair and touch-up makeup so I could stay behind the camera. I was nervous, this being my first "sexy" shoot, and all, but I think it turned out great... and her husband was THRILLED with the results! Cassie was put on bedrest three days after... so lucky for us we got them done when we did!

I, obviously, will not share her images with all of you... but here is one of my favorite head shots of the day:

Amy & Mace's Manti Wedding

2007-09-05T23:13:00.000-07:00

While we were in UT for Gregg and Jamie's wedding- I also slipped in some work and shot a wedding Saturday night, August 11th, in Manti. I wont list too many pictures... but we had a great time. Chris drove me down and was a very faithful and attentive assistant! (Love Him!) Amy's (the bride) sister, Stacey, married Chris' older brother Shawn-- so that was the random connection that ended me the job.

Mace and Amy were both so laid back and I could tell they really enjoyed every minute of the reception. However...every chance they got... they snuck in a kiss or two- it was SO cute... Wedding days are the greatest... too bad they have to come to an end!

Here are a few of my favorite shots of the day! (The polka dot girls are our nieces- Emily is 4 and Ashley is about 6 months... I know... TOO CUTE!)

Enjoy!

My CUTEST and ONLY nephew- TYLER

And I don't personally know this little girl... but I absolutely fell in love with her!!! Isnt she just adorable?!

Thanks, again, Amy and Mace! I had a great time!

Gregg and Jamie's Wedding Extravaganza!

2007-09-05T20:52:00.000-07:00

SO... way back on the 10th of August... Chris and I went up to UT for Gregg and Jamie's wedding. Here are a few shots of the GORGEOUS bride and her groom- before and after he passed out on Temple Square :) (I LOVE gregg's expression in both pics- always something new...) And then an entourage of pics to follow- I wish they DIDNT need such explanations!

The reception was so much fun. High energy and non-stop dancing! Here are some of the "group" breakin' it down!(especially my crazy husband!!!!)

and in case you were concerned... the Motivator (aka Mike Vranes) did not stop work for one second- come rain, or shine... party, or no party... the Man has always got to make sure the world is still turning... and that people everywhere are being motivated

Congrats Gregg and Jamie!!!! We LOVE you!!!!!

Oh! and I forgot to mention....

My parents flew us up in the "mike-echo" so the twins came to Gregg and Jamie's dinner on Thursday night. I dont know who was more excited to see who... the twins... or all of chris' friends?! Sad... but SO true!

Here are the twins with Colby and his killer purple shirt :) and good ol' sean.... oh yes... and my husband who can jump higher than anyone I know... and has a far better toe-touch than I do!!!

olivia

2007-08-01T09:08:00.001-07:00

So... Kellen and Camille Wilkinson came to visit this past weekend and we had such a good time. They stayed with Gary and Bev but Chris spent all day, everyday, with them. Chris golfed with Gary and Kellen twice at two very nice courses, we all went to the diamondbacks game, went swimming, and went to see transformers! It was a very fun weekend and we were so glad they came down. Somewhere in all of the playing we snuck away to get some pics of olivia. These were two of my favs! I love this little girl! SO cute!

hudson: 2 weeks old

2007-07-20T20:59:00.000-07:00

This has been a busy week for photography! Last night Amy & I had a photoshoot for a freind in our ward- who has the absolute cutest little boy, hudson. We had a great time and, in my humble opinion, some great shots! Here are some of my favs.

The chair was kind of spur-the-moment... but I kind of like it, after all!

a sad farewell to an old friend

2007-07-20T20:37:00.000-07:00

I have put this off for a few days now... and the emotions are still very much at the surface... but.... I will cut to the chase.....

we..... sold..... the..... MINI!!!!!

Yes, it is true. My little yellow solemate has a new owner. I am very sad to say our time was up. Our 14 months together were some of the best days of my life! I loved my little car- but, sometimes.... (as Chris- sounding just like his father- would say "there are more important things in life.... such as saving money, and "planning for our future"..." So... this post is my farwell to the min-min and hello to the PT! We are very excited about our new car- it is absolutely monstrous!!! BUT the min will always have a place in our hearts!

three cheers for the min!

amy's family pictures

2007-07-09T23:40:00.001-07:00

So... I guarantee she wont be happy about this... but I just love the pics!! Last week, I took Amy's family pictures (my photography partner). She has an awesome family that is just the definition of photogenic! Chris was nice enough to tag along as my "assistant" and we all had a great time....

It wasnt long after we found the water fall that Charlie (4) was totally immersed in the fountain! We had too much fun shooting this one!!

Above are some of my favorites : ) Thanks Amy!

75% of the time

2007-07-09T23:32:00.000-07:00

75% of the time this is how we pretty much are. Chris is most often found with a school book in hand doing some homework, and I am either sitting on the couch next to him, or we are sitting side-by-side on our computers... spending some quality TLC... : ) I am always editing something or playing around with photos and he is ALWAYS on either ASU's website, or at ESPN.com.... gotta love it. Here are a few shots of our real life. no joke.

the much awaited and very overdue apartment pictures

2007-07-09T22:48:00.000-07:00

The Jones' have never seen our apartment! (well, since I have been living in it, atleast....) and since our wedding they have been asking me to send pictures or to publish some on the blog so they can see where and how we live! Its not much, but it sure is home to us. We LOVE it! The "Polo Club" definitely is not as exclusive as it sounds... haha... but we are having a blast living here. I'm kind of a freak for COLOR... so I have done the best I can with the given white walls. Here are the pics I snapped real quick tonight, and yes... it really is that late and we are FAR from going to bed. : ) Hope you enjoy them, Jan!

The layout of this post is kind of crazy.......(The first two are the office, then the family room, kitchen, laundry room, bedroom, and finally bathroom)

Hands and Feet

2007-06-22T19:56:00.000-07:00

This has been a pretty exciting week- I was out with a strained neck for the entire weekend and chris still has empty mornings for another week until school starts... so we were able to spend alot of time together!! With the extra time at home- we spent most of it side by side at our computers. : ) That is some real quality time! He searches ESPN and I edit or play around with photos. I decided I take way too many pictures of hands and feet. Those two features say so much about a person... I find them very interesting. So here are a few of my favorites from this catagory that I gathered this week...

Em, Tyler and a little Ashley

2007-06-13T10:38:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun when Shawn & Stacey were over... Em and Tyler are quite entertaining. Little Ashley has gotten huge since we saw her last... but she is adorable! Here are some of our favorite pics of the grandkids- Stacey, we are mailing you a CD of all of them, hope you like 'em!

Hangin' Out

2007-06-13T09:57:00.000-07:00

Sunday evening some of the family played a game of croquet, Em and Tyler ran around, Tom, Stacey, and Hollie watched, and I took pictures! The weather was beautiful- it was the perfect end to a great day.

Saturday afternoon I had a chance to sneek around the back yard and take a few pictures- Tom, of course, was reading a book on the porch... BigT loves reading outside. The Jones' have an amazing yard. I love their rose bushes. This was one of my favorite pictures taken in Jan's yard.

Boys gone Wild

2007-06-13T09:29:00.000-07:00

Souds a little creepy... but dont be scared. Four of Chris' friends- Sean, Jake, Gaby, and Chad- have quite the bachelor pad. While we were all enjoying our time at the Vranes', they thought is would be a great idea to take some "family pictures" for their new place... it was hilarious, to say the least! So here are some of our favorites.

Our weekend in Utah

2007-06-13T09:15:00.000-07:00

We spent this past weekend in Utah. We had so much fun and can't wait till we are back in August. Colby, one of Chris' good friends, had his homecoming on Sunday- which was the whole reason we went in the first place. Chris, especially, had such a good time with his friends. Even though we live so far... they always pick right back up where they left off. Chris golfed Saturday with Parker and Wade, while I shopped with Jan. It was a good afternoon. Then we enjoyed a great meal and movie with family and friends. Sunday was the best day. We went to the Homecoming then spent the afternoon at the Vranes'- I LOVE Sally, well, so does Chris.. She is the cutest mom on earth. Then the evening we got to spent with all of Chris' siblings at the Jones'. It was the perfect weekend. I think I took over 700 pictures! I have narrowed it down to a select 200... yeah.... and mailed CD's off to a few people. Hope you enjoy some of the next few posts- I am sure they will be entertaining!

(These pictures are from the Vranes' House)

California with the Gambells

2007-06-07T08:49:00.001-07:00

Over Memorial Day weekend we went to Solana Beach with my oldest sister, Shanell, and her little family. She has 4 girls under 5.... yeah.... and we just had a blast! Chris and I slept on the couch bed downstairs... which consisted of a cardboard mattress, rock hard cushions, and scratchy sheets (needless to say... it was a piece of junk) ! Meanwhile the little girls each had their own cozy twin bed to cuddle up in. : ) Good times, good times. We had so much fun watching the girls on the beach. Sophia- 18 mos.- went kamakazi on us.... she LOVED the ocean. If you turned your head even for a second, she was waist deep in it- rolling around, loving life. A little scary, if you ask me. We had walked down to the water one afternoon, not planning to swim and surely enough, Shanell, Dale, and Sophia all we soaked before we left- just chasing Soph was enough to get you wet. I was able to catch a little of the action. Savannah -5- also loved the water, but with a little more reserve than Soph. Camilla-4- on the other hand, wanted NOTHING to do with the water. She would hold her shovel out- 20 feet from the tide and hope to get a little water in it for her sand castle. One time the tide came in and took her bucket with it... she was NOT happy. Little Eliza- 3 mos- was perfect the whole time. Shes just a trooper! I posted a few picks of the trip below... how cute do Chris and Dale look?! Daddy and daddy?!! Thanks for a fun weekend Gambells!

the cinderella shoot

2007-06-07T08:46:00.000-07:00

Last week Amy & I had a photo shoot for the adorable girl below. She was Cinderella in her school play and her mom really wanted to capture her in this gorgeous dress. It was a very high-energy shoot and I think it is safe to say... we all had a great time. Here are some of the shots I loved, though the ones from Amy's camera were TDF(to-die-for), too.

the big wedding

2007-06-07T08:38:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago my photography partner, Amy, and I, shot a friend of mine's wedding. It was a beautiful ceremony and day, but a very LONG afternoon. I was there for about 10 hours and Amy was there for 6! We captured some great shots... this one was my absolute favorite!

the blog

2007-06-07T07:45:00.000-07:00

There are several reasons why Chris & I wanted to start a blog- first of all, we hope it will be a fun way to communicate with the Jones' in Utah. This will give them a small glimpse of what life is like here in AZ. Secondly- it will be a fun way to post my lastest photos and shoots that I thought have gone well, and hopefully I will get some feedback

Have fun reading... and hope this is somewhat entertaining for you as well!