Thanksgiving 2009 | Raleigh Family Photographer

I have so many things for which to be thankful. These pictures show just a few of them.
I love how Jacob and Talah almost have the same expression in the picture below left. She thought it was awesome to have the leaves fall all around her when the wind blew.

It was sort of strange to set a Thanksgiving table for only three people, but it was still a good and relaxing day. We definitely missed all of our family in Florida, though!

Pumpkin trifle.

Savory pumpkin pie/tart (recipe at the bottom).

Turkey breast cutlets and root potato smash. I have to say, these turkey cutlets were no where NEAR as good as the whole bird my dad cooks, but I thought I'd give them a shot.

Some of Jacob's latte art. Even though I don't drink coffee, I truly appreciate his artistry.

My favorite thing we ate was the savory pumpkin pie. It was very easy to make and I just adapted it from a recipe I found online. If you're feeling ambitious you can roast pumpkin instead of using the puree.

Savory Pumpkin PieIngredients:1 can pumpkin puree1 pie crust (pre-made or make your own)2 medium onions2 T brown sugar2 T butter1 T oil1 cup grated cheese (I used English Coastal Cheddar but Gruyere would be good)2 eggs2 T milkSalt, pepper, thyme, and nutmeg to taste
-Brown the pie crust at 375 degrees until lightly golden.-Slice the onions into thin half-moons and sautee in the oil and butter for 5 minutes. Add the brown sugar and cook until caramelized.-In small bowl, mix pumpkin puree, caramelized onions, and salt/pepper/thyme/nutmeg to taste.-Scrape pumpkin mixture into the pie crust-Cover with the cheese (you may not need a whole cup but I was using a deep dish pie pan)-Mix the eggs and milk in a small bowl-Pour egg/milk mixture over the top of the cheese
Bake at 375 degrees 25 minutes or until set.

Sibling Session: Lauren & Lane | Raleigh Family Photographer

When Lauren told me she wanted to do a city/country session with her brother, I was very excited. I LOVE doing themed sessions. This session will be a surprise for their family, which I think is very sweet. Enjoy your sneak peek!

The Beach : ) | Raleigh Family Photographer

Warning: This is a long one!

This summer, we were able to combine two beach trips within two weeks. We started at Folly Beach with great friends for the first week and then went down to Florida to spend time with family. It was wonderful.

I just love the colors in weathered wood. It's got such great depth and richness to it.

Who knew barnacles could be so pretty when you really stop to look at them?





This picture was taken through the hole in the sandcastle above (later in the day).














Family time in Vero!


















Talah loves "Raggie." Many times a day, you will see exactly what you see below: Talah looking content, with Raggie stuffed in her mouth. She even sleeps like this. Gross? Perhaps. But as her mother, I don't mind a bit : )


There's certainly nothing artistic about this picture or the on camera flash used, but it was Talah's 2nd birthday and I love this moment. She was so, so happy and excited! We celebrated at my parents' home in Orlando.

Vacation! | Raleigh Family Photographer

I've been out for a week and will be out for another week. After that, I'm back to business as usual : ) This has been a great (and much needed) time of rest and fun for me and my family and friends. I'm grateful to be able to have these moments.

Oh, and if you're a burglar, please know that my very tough and strong brother-in-law is still at the house, so don't even think about it ; )

Kelly Family: And Baby Makes Five! | Raleigh Maternity Photographer

The Kelly family is expecting their third child soon and this time it's a baby boy. I photographed this family last year and was so happy to get to spend time with them again. They're just fun. We started at their home and then went on to the NC Museum of Art, which has fantastic art on the trails, like these great rings. They made me think of the circle of life and of the protectiveness of the womb. Congratulations and I can't wait to meet your little man!