Down the Aisle: Lisa + Jeremy

/

What a day! Beginning with a torrential downpour, and ending with sunshine... Lisa & Jeremy got it all. Even more impressive than mother nature's theatrical display, was Lisa & Jeremy's calmness. I mean, they must've been stressed, but you'd never know it by looking at them! With hearts set on an outdoor ceremony and rain confirmed in the forecast, they arranged for an incredible tent palace with only a day's notice... and pulled off the entire day without a hitch. It was, in short, perfection. :) Ceremony/Reception: Jasper Winery (Des Moines, IA) Decor/Flowers: the Perfect Wedding (Des Moines, IA) Crafty Gorgeousness: None other than the new Mrs. Braden herself! Go Lisa!

I'm so in love with all of these images... I'm just going to put that out here now. Rainy wedding days often make brides nervous.... but it's  not the rain that's the challenge so much.... it's convincing everyone else that it's going to be OK that can be tough sometimes. But, with Lisa & Jeremy's super stellar attitudes... my job was a breeze!

Super bonus points to the whole wedding party for heading out into this field... and braving the *insane* mosquitoes for this shot... hats off to you all!

Magical tent set up!

My heart beams with joy for you both...

A Sweet Simple Sunday

/

It's Monday... and I can't wipe the smile off my face. I've been better and better at adding balance to my life, and this past weekend I was very aware of, and grateful for, how far I've come in that pursuit. Sunday morning found Emir by my side for a (hilly!) 12 mile run through the country-side on the north/east edge of the city. Marking the apex of our training for the Des Moines half-marathon, it was also our first run with the new hand-held water bottles we bought, and I was happily surprised to find out that I didn't mind having it in my hand, the water sloshing around, for the whole 2 hours of our run. Our usual routes through the city leave us dependent upon the often sparsely available water fountains, and obviously, there aren't any to be found out in the middle of the country side, so the water bottles were a must... and they worked like a charm!

After getting home and cleaning ourselves up, we rode our new bikes to our favorite Sunday lunch spot, the Green Gateau, for mozzarella baguette sandwiches (on wheat bread instead of the baguette.... even better!) and replenished our depleted calories by splitting some cheesecake for dessert. :)

With the satisfaction of a good meal in our tummies, we hopped on our bikes and headed over to Emir's brother's house to welcome the family home from 2 incredible weeks in Europe. Adis & Laura (and Laura's mom, Jolene) hung out in Barcelona for a few days before heading to Bosnia to introduce little Haris to Emir's grandparents, aunts/uncles and cousins. Seeing Haris chase pigeons in Sarajevo, walk hand-in hand with overseas cousins, and kick around a soccer ball with Dido Fehro (Emir's grandfather) in Doboj was an awe inspiring sight, representing so much of life's victories, hopes and celebrations in a single moment. Having been spread oceans apart by world events, I was inspired and moved to see so many generations moving forward together, with such life and promise. I felt fortunate to bear witness to such beauty and strength, and proud to share my life with such a loving, resilient and brave family.

Watching Haris with Emir's parents is also a treat. He adores them and makes them smile in a way that seems to make the world brighter. Just over 1 year old, Haris already understands and responds to both English and Bosnian... looking as equally at home here in Lincoln, as he does on the streets of Sarajevo.

Growing up in a bi-cultural family of my own... I have always felt extremely fortunate, touched by a special gift that I understand and appreciate more and more as I get older. I am tickled pink that the tradition continues with Emir's family... and can't wait to have kids of our own to share such  treasure with. :) Watching Adis, Laura & Haris is pure inspiration...

(These are some of their photos from the trip. The image in the bottom right is Haris walking through the house Emir grew up in, in Doboj... simply amazing...)

We spent the remainder of our Sunday evening with my family... chasing Cole around while keeping our  Sunday movie night tradition alive and well. All in all... a perfectly awesome Sunday. :)

Down the Aise: Jennifer + Nick

/

Nick & Jennifer have been planning their wedding for what seems like forever! Their big day finally came... and went off without a hitch. While it was the second reception I've ever photographed at the Lied Center for Performing Arts, it was the first ceremony I've seen there. Such a gorgeous venue! The new Mr. & Mrs. are headed to Disney's Epcot Center for the upcoming Food & Wine festival... how fantastic is that!? Yummo!

Enjoy sunny Orlando!

Class of 2011: Danielle

/

We're cruising down the street en route to our first location and I'm listening intently as Danielle tells me about her post high school plans. She mentions that she's interested in dance... and maybe a unique program for arts management. Not many schools in the country offer programs in both those areas, and certainly fewer still are known for being stand-outs in those respective departments... but one school (my alma mater) jumped to mind immediately because it accomplishes all of the above... and before I could even say anything, Danielle exclaimed, "We're looking at the University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point!" I shrieked with excitement-- I loved my time at UWSP and was thrilled to hear that she's considering it... Somewhat of a small treasure tucked away in central Wisconsin, it's a bit of a hidden gem. I love knowing another Nebraskan soul may be enjoying it next fall... Small world!

Have a great year Danielle! :)

Welcome to the World Corbin!

/

I don't know how she does it... Corbin's mom, January, warned me as I passed through their front door... apologizing for the "mess." I still don't know what she was talking about... their home was spotless. If that's what I get to look forward to when having kids... sign me up! Sheesh! What's my excuse? Can I blame Merki???? Ha ha! :) January was aglow with the light of motherhood... and little Corbin was basking in it, blissfully unaware of my presence. He did seem to really enjoy his snugly wardrobe options.... way to go mom! ;)

Welcome Corbin!

Down the Aisle: Jackie + Monte

/

In a herculean effort to get their images up for enjoyment before they leave for Paris (this is a monster post!), I'm abandoning my attempt at trying to write something brilliant because... well... words don't seem able to do their day justice. I humbly hope that the images might go some distance to convey how special September 10, 2010 will forever be in their hearts and the hearts of all who love them. Thank you for entrusting me to capture the romance, love and jubilation of your day, your lives, yourselves. Best wishes as you begin your next adventure... I am honored to call you both friends.

Location: Sheldon Art Museum Flowers/Decorations: Hillis & Company Catering: Chez Hay Harpist: Heidi Beran

One word: LOVE. Bon voyage!