julia*s Focus:

12 before 2012

2011-10-28T09:11:00.001-04:00

I was reading a blog the other day and came across a challenge: 12 before 2012.
The writer was challenging her readers to join in on completing twelve projects before they rang in the new year.

Anyone who really knows me, knows that I LOVE to dream up projects, buy (trash pick) for projects, and never finish them...some I don't even start. So this sounded like a fun idea to me and maybe, just maybe, enough motivation for me to finish some of the projects I have laying around.

I have pinned some things on Pinterest that I am hoping to get completed.
It's fun to have goals *wink*.

So here are a couple pictures of the 'beginnings' of my projects for the next two months... oh, and a kitchen make-over... ha!

(don't judge me for the 'state' of my garage)

I plan on doing a post in the near future about my recent thrift store purchases and 'curb finds', but since this is part of the challenge, I included the price of these lamps. I also got a shade for one for $1.90.
(disclaimer: They look a lot cuter in the picture than they actually are. *wink*)

Five Years

2011-10-25T13:41:00.000-04:00

My husband, Adam, and I have been married five years now... five wonderful, growing, hard, delightful years.

We received a card from his parents that summed up marriage in the most terrible, yet truthful words I've heard:
"The best mistake I've ever made."

Adam and I met on the internet. People we know often want to make an 'example' of us that internet dating is successful. We loudly scream "NO!":) We think it was one of the hardest things we have ever done... moving across the country, not having a 'normal' dating time. Sure there are perks: getting to know each other better than we would if there was physical contact, etc., but that's what relationships are meant to go through, to overcome!

We work. We are terribly in love. We passionately pursue life together, BUT that's not a product of the internet, it's a product of a really big God who used the internet to bring two like-minded people together. We don't work because of the internet... believe me, we met based on attraction like most everybody else, not based on a great list of all of our goals, character and aspirations.

We work because God gives us strength to put up with each other's crap and gives us a great example of His beautiful love that loves us when we are defiant and ugly in our spirits.

The past year has come with many challenging times (as do most years)...
we felt like a 'break' was needed more than ever before and my dad was kind enough to book a vacation for us that we could have never dreamed of going on.
We returned to Hilton Head, SC, where we honeymooned... It's so beautiful and peaceful there... a great place to get a little rejuvenation!

So, back to life... a bit more rested, and a ton more grateful!

Press on! <3

Oh! I love this man!!!

{Sneak Peak: Columbus Area Weddings}

2011-07-14T23:40:00.000-04:00

I've shot three weddings since we've last spoken... I can't seem to keep my head above water with editing, our awesome new responsibility with our youth group and my ornery little two year old...
BUT here's a little peak of things to come!

{Bloom}

2011-05-30T11:52:00.000-04:00

I don't have a green thumb. Oh how I wish I did, because I really love plants, flowers, etc., but it just isn't the case. I remember my first plant...and it's demise, like it was yesterday.

My dear friend Michele was moving to New Zealand, and asked my to adopt her lovely Jade plant. I kept it in my office at work and it grew and grew and I was so thrilled that I went and bought it a beautiful new planter to live in. And when I drove it home from work, I was in a bit of a hurry... and forgot it in the car. It was a wintery-Ohio night and the poor little thing froze to death, literally.

Needless to say, I was a bit overwhelmed when we moved into our house, and spring came along ushering in ten (plus) Peony bushes, several rose bushes and countless other beauties. But this spring I was ready for them and excited for the color they bring to our lawn. So, this was the week they finally bloomed... and now they fill our home with a little bit of summer.

{Tim & Ashley: Married}

2011-05-26T16:38:00.000-04:00

As Ashley sat in her pajamas in the cabin where they would be married, Tim walked in with the appetizers. She hopped up and hugged him, not a single thought of the 'not seeing your bride/ groom on the wedding day' tradition.

I knew at that moment, this would be the most relaxed, simple wedding I would ever photograph.

What a blessing with it being my first, that Ashley and Tim were both so gracious and accommodating.

They showered their closest friends and family with attention and a lavish meal...

It was refreshing that their love for each other made for the center of the day!

Tim and Ashley, I smile thinking of your wedding day... A lovely beginning to forever!

May your marriage adventure be as exciting and lovely as you two are!

{boring}

2011-03-20T00:31:00.000-04:00

Yeah, I know... the blog has been super boring with only a post here and there lately!
Life has been super busy in our family, and I don't want to miss a second of it!

Thanks for sticking with me...

Yeah, I know this picture is out of focus... but it seems pretty in character with a yawn *wink*

{Allison & David: Engaged}

2011-03-09T14:26:00.001-05:00

{Ainsley: Newborn}

2011-02-25T15:07:00.000-05:00

Even though little miss Ainsley had no intentions of going to sleep during our shoot, she was completely content. She literally didn't make a peep. I imagine having two older brothers makes you quite aware of what's going on around you! Lucky me gets to follow this sweet little girl for the next year, so keep your eye out for Ainsley's future shoots!

Enjoy!

{Jan: Professional Headshots}

2011-02-24T22:25:00.000-05:00

Jan is a writer. I am not. If I wanted to become a writer, I would contact Jan. I imagine I should have some writing talent before contacting her, but Jan helps aspiring writers realize and reach their goals. Pretty cool, huh? (Check her out here if you'd like to know more.) I was asked to do a shoot of more 'approachable' headshots for her website. She may be the most un-stuffy business woman I've ever met (Is that a word?) Either way, we had fun!

Enjoy!

{Senior Portraits}

2011-02-11T14:06:00.000-05:00

It's that time again!

If you're a 2012 graduate, looking to book senior pictures, now is the time to do it!

In order to give individual attention to each upcoming senior, I'm limiting my bookings to *TEN* 2012 graduates!

Contact me now to reserve your spot!

No Comment

2011-02-11T08:09:00.001-05:00

If I'm honest, I will admit that there are times I post things to get a reaction. It may be to 'ruffle feathers' or in hopes to shine a positive light on me or my parenting, etc.

I've been thinking a lot about why I blog. And I think there's a lot of value in blogging.
In my particular case, it helps to showcase my photography so that my clients can see a preview of my work.

However, I believe I have a bit of a platform having a 'business-based' blog. People come to my website for photography, but hopefully will come across a post on Jesus, charity, parenting... things I'm passionate about. I've been praying about how I can stay true to my motives in blogging, and to not find my worth in the feedback people may leave (or not leave). With all of that in mind, I have decided to disable the 'Comments' section of my blog.

Please know that I still value your communication and if you have a question, concern, or simply want to dialogue, you can communicate via the 'Contact Me' tab.

I am continuing to pray that I post with intention: to provoke thought, creativity, passion, and ultimately reflect the goodness of my Savior.

Shanionie: Etsy Shop

2011-02-09T23:20:00.001-05:00

It may seem silly, but I'm SO excited to have one of my photographs featured on a friend's Etsy shop.

My lovely little friend, Shannon, has broken out in the crochet world and is making some darling things. She customizes everything, so head on over and find something you can't live without (send her a message if you need something 'custom'). Check her out here: Shanionie- A Touch of Vintage.

While you're here, I'll sneak you a peak of adorable Hannah modeling the adorable hat! Quite the pair! wink!

**Disclaimer: This shoot was done while babysitting... a fun little shoot in my poorly-lit house!

{Fornek: First Trimester Shoot}

2011-02-09T22:45:00.001-05:00

They have waited quite some time for this little miracle, so I couldn't have been more excited when Danielle and Adam asked me to shoot a maternity bundle for them. This is a totally new idea for JFP, but it was fun thinking of shots to 'build on' as the pregnancy goes along. Their other new addition, Lucy, (the golden retriever) was eager to jump into the session, so cute! Keep your eye out for more of this lovely little *growing* family!

Enjoy!

{Teaser}

2011-02-09T19:46:00.000-05:00

Just a little peak at my postings 'in progress'...

Taking Back SAHM

2011-02-08T13:21:00.000-05:00

I have been craving my role as stay-at-home-mom (SAHM) for several months now.

Some moms tolerate this role, some love it, I thrive on it.

The fall months when JFP was so busy that I forgot we even had a washing machine, my heart longed to clean my house and bake bread with my favorite miniature guy. I missed being with Atticus during the day with my full attention (not waiting for nap-time so that I could edit). It's in the past month that I was reunited with the joy that a 21 month-old gets from playing with water (which he can now pronounce in the most hilarious way: "wa-or" rolling his 'R' like he's a native of Spain), stacking cans of beans, or even moving things from one place to another.

Late last week, I was sorting dry beans to prepare for a meal and Atticus became quite intrigued by what I was doing. After holding him up to the counter, 'swooshing' his hands through the beans, I could see on his face just much he was 'experiencing'. So we took the crock of beans into the living room and he played with them for easily twenty minutes. There's nothing like watching a child experience something for the first time... there's just this intrigue of the new feelings and the 'processing' of it all. LOVE!

{Our Dear Friends}

2011-02-01T15:15:00.000-05:00

We have lots of really great friends, really great friends! But Randy and Sarah have a special place in our hearts... they are the first friends that were neither Adam's friends or my friends before they were our friends! That may sound silly, but it has been a big deal in our marriage to start gaining friends that only know us as 'The Towells' rather than as 'Adam and his wife' or 'Julia and her husband'.

Sarah and Randy are a staple in our life as well as two of Atticus's favorite people. He knows that church means he gets to see them, and has even started to recognize Randy's voice on the CD our church band recorded.

Sarah is super ultra creative and talented... I couldn't begin to list her 'gifts' but she has an easy store that I'm sure she'll shoot me for posting since she hasn't had much time to make all of her little dandies lately, but check her out anyway!

Randy is the 'culture guru'... media, politics, pretty much anything you want to talk about, he knows! It's pretty fun and amazing to be around. (Unless, of corse, it's 2am and he's having a talk about theme songs from the 80's with your husband with you in the room, not that that has ever happened! *wink*)

On top of all of their individual 'greatness', Randy and Sarah are so great together...
As a duo, they are some pretty hardcore musicians and have released CD's (Helvetica is for Lovers) and currently bless Grace Fellowship, in Pickerington, OH with their musical talents!

All this to say... I love them to pieces...
and I couldn't think of many people that I'd rather photograph!
Ps. Randy said that he never likes pictures of himself... I told him I was up for the challenge!
Voila: Our impromptu photo shoot! (I think I won!)

{My Friday Night}

2011-01-28T20:14:00.000-05:00

My Friday nights typically involve my favorite grown up and a silly little blonde haired boy and his blankie.

Tonight, Adam was gone for work, so we mixed things up a little and threw in a laundry basket (that I've had by the back door to return to my mom).
Atticus has been playing like it's his bed and he will climb in and tell me 'night-night'...
he was just too darn cute to not take pictures of!

Ps. yes, we know Atticus needs a haircut... Adam and I both swear it grew inches during his nap yesterday... true story!

{Tim & Ashley: Engaged}

2011-01-28T13:10:00.000-05:00

They're both self-proclaimed 'foodies', so I couldn't think of a better place in Columbus to capture Tim and Ashley's romance than the North Market. I've known Ashley since we were both in High School but we had lost touch, it has been fun to reconnect at such a blissful time in her life. At the start of our session, Tim was a bit uncomfortable getting 'cozy' in public....but I think they got the hang of it! *wink*

Enjoy!

{Tim & Ashley: Teaser}

2011-01-28T02:55:00.000-05:00

Stay tuned for this ooey-gooey, utterly in love engagement session...

{Nicole: Senior}

2011-01-19T07:30:00.006-05:00

I'm not sure that there could have been a colder morning in Columbus, OH, as the morning I got to meet Nicole. It was twelve degrees with a chilling wind that took your breath away. She was quite a trooper as we stomped through the fresh snow to the woods and pond behind their home. As a photographer {bundled up nice and cozy... looking ridiculous} is was picturesque!

As you can see, Nicole is a stunning young lady.
What you can't see, is her quick wit, her laid back attitude, and her sheer potential that were quite evident in the short amount of time I spent with her.

So, sit back, grab a cup of {black} coffee, {Nicole's favorite, yeah, she's cool like that} and enjoy the show!

New 'Venture'

2011-01-18T15:38:00.001-05:00

So, I've been dying to post about this new 'Venture' for JFP...
Yesterday I had my first shoot for a blog series in the works by Nathan Kloster of Basis Accounting.

The blog series will be focusing on Columbus-area businesses and peering into the world of the local entrepreneur. I'll keep you updated on it's progress!

I have never done work for a business before, so this is a fun opportunity for me, and if the other interviews are anything like this one at Katalina's Cafe Corner (located in Harrison West), I'm in for quite a treat!

Ps. If you haven't already done so, eat here! It's delicious in every way... decor, vibe, and most importantly, taste!

To my lovely friend...

2011-01-16T20:46:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday to one of the most beautiful people I know...
Heather, you are graceful, and lovely, and deserve a day full of wonderful things.

May all of your 'wishes' come true!

I have such fond memories of birthdays spent together... maybe next year... *hug*

Canines

2011-01-13T12:23:00.001-05:00

I'm asked on occasion, "Do you photograph animals?"
My official answer, "No."

But I am a sucker for a big, friendly dog.
So if your pooch is sitting there, looking all adorable, I'm probably going to snap a frame or two of him/her... unofficially. *wink*

Here's one of my favorite pups to photograph.
Foster belongs to a client and is always so sweet and docile, like he's begging for me to give him just a moment of my camera love...

Enjoy!

{Nicole: Teaser}

2011-01-12T12:57:00.000-05:00

Keep an eye out for this beautiful Senior, Nicole, to make her official debut on the blog...

{Rachel & Travis: Engaged}

2011-01-11T14:09:00.001-05:00

I have known Rachel her entire life so it's pretty great to see her as such a beautiful young lady... in love!

She and Travis have such a fun, light-hearted relationship, it's fun to be around them. Travis is living in California trying to break into the film industry, while Rachel is living here in Ohio.

The excitement of them being physically together was almost tangible! Love it!

Rachel and Travis, I can't wait for your October wedding!

Enjoy!

New Year, New JFP

2011-01-01T12:52:00.002-05:00

This last year has been such a whirlwind for our family, and a lot of that can be credited to the 'boom' of Julia's Focus Photography. What started out as 'maybe I could try this to take the place of babysitting a couple of days' became, 'will I ever sleep again with all of this editing?'.

So, at the end of the three most hectic, crammed-full months our family has ever seen, I have decided to refocus! And what better time to implement than at the start of a fresh new year. This may be a boring post for some, but for my current clients, this will give you a little insight as to why things will be changing oh-so-much.

I'm going to start off with the topic that is the least comfortable for me to talk about, but that will have the most impact on my clients, and that is Price Increase. Let me say that I don't feel that I 'owe' an explanation for a price increase, after all, this is what happens in business, but I desire to let you know the reasoning so, hopefully, you can respect this decision.
-My first 'reason' for price increase is logistics. After equipment, time, travel, and taxes, there is very little left to put in our pockets at the end of the day. And that is, after all, why we all work, right? To support our families.
-My second reason, is so that I can focus on shoots that are more my 'genre'. Up to this point, I was the 'cheap' photographer...(it's okay, we can just say it;)). Just getting started, I felt that that was the best decision for our business, until I could build a reputation. But with a slightly more competitive price point, I am hoping that only those who truly want JFP will be hiring me and I can feel the liberty to shoot and edit creatively.
-The third and final reason is quality. I feel that in the past several months, I have been unable to devote the time and thought into each individual shoot. Whether in props, scouting locations, many areas have not been the caliber that I envisioned my photography being. A price increase will enable me to do less shoots, thus putting more effort and creative energy into each individual shoot. (Think Wal-mart vs. J.Crew;))
(*updated pricing can be found by clicking on the 'Investment' tab)

Another big change for 2011 will be the amount of shoots I will take. Since September, JFP has has 38 shoots! For those who are not in the photography business, let me tell you, that is INSANE! The 2-3 hours per shoot 'on location' is a lot, but the hours and hours of editing, is where the bulk of a shoot's work comes in, which has left me sleep deprived and has left me neglecting my family. As thankful as I am for all of the experience and business this has granted me, it is time to prioritize. A wise friend recently shared this quote with me by Theodore Rosevelt,

”No piled-up wealth, no splendor of material growth, no brilliance of artistic development, will permanently avail any people unless its home life is healthy…”

Don't get me wrong, I love photography, but I love being a wife and a mom and a home-maker more. I feel that I could fail at JFP and could still succeed in life, but if I failed at being a wife and mom, success is no longer an option.

I will also be taking on weddings this year which is a new, terribly exciting venture for me. I *LOVE* weddings, and really can't think of many other things I'd rather photograph than two people, in love, starting their life together. I'm honored that brides have trusted me to capture this special day and I take the responsibility very seriously. Which means that months that I have a wedding booked, I will not take other shoots, unless they are infant or milestone shoots. In any month, I will have a limited number of shoots. We are thinking four might be the magic number, but we haven't solidified that yet. At 17-18 shoots per month, I had to turn away families for Christmas shoots, so I know that this will be quite a shock come those 'high demand' times of the year.

Lastly, there are some minor, fun changes that will be happening: blog posts for every shoot, shorter turn-around time on CD's, and only photography-focused blog posts on JFP.com.

I love what I do, and these changes enable me to continue improving my business, talent and skill without neglecting the things that matter to me most!

I know this is a lot of information, I welcome your thoughts, questions, concerns, etc.

We are so excited for what 2011 holds!

And a post would be complete without a picture...of my two main men! Looking forward to a lot more time with them!

{Travis and Rachel Teaser}

2010-12-29T23:16:00.000-05:00

You can't even tell me you don't want to see more of this shoot! *wink*
Keep an eye out for it in the next week or so, until then...

So long 2010...

2010-12-29T15:48:00.001-05:00

I'm a little embarrassed by how long it's been since my last blog post.
Between trying to finish up 2010 shoots, writing up pricing, contracts, etc. for 2011, and hosting family from out of town, let along Christmas celebrations, I've had very little time for blogging.
go ahead, give me the *tisk* look and get it out of the way!

On another note, Adam and I are getting more and more excited for what 2011 will hold for JFP. A lot of things will be changing with the new year! Refocusing, repurposing, refreshing, will come at a price, but will be a great thing for our family!

All of these changes will be in a post on here the first of the year...

Until then, here are a few pictures from our extended family Christmas.
My Uncle Lance and Aunt Karen have a beautiful home, and their exquisite taste make it an almost magical place to be at Christmas!

I am trying harder and harder to be wife, momma, daughter, cousin, etc., for family time, which results in photographs missed but memories made. I think I'm on board with that! *wink*

Enjoy!

This picture makes me giggle. It's totally blurry, which exaggerates the 'mood' I was trying to capture.
The absolute scurry of finding presents with their names on them.

Go ahead, tell me you don't want your home to look like this!

And He's Off!

2010-12-03T13:35:00.000-05:00

A couple of days ago, Atticus was being super mischievous, and as I opened the front door to grab the mail, he snuck out behind me, running down the porch, screaming in delight.

Luckily for him, I had my camera around my neck and took the opportunity to photograph him rolling around on the (freezing concrete) porch, instead of taking the discipline route. *wink*

I got a little chuckle out of this image, thought I'd pass it along.

Happy Friday!

Christmas Card Envy

2010-12-02T02:45:00.005-05:00

Lately, I have had this internal dialogue:
"Money is super tight, how will we get Christmas cards out? Maybe we just won't be able to send them this year. Not send them?! That's absurd! You have to send out Christmas cards... That's what respectable people do!"

So maybe I'm alone in this internal battle... maybe my husband is the only one who has lost his job this year (along with the other nearly 1 million Americans). Maybe our family is the only family dealing with inflating prices of goods, gas, ~~anything~~ everything we need, and yet no inflation in pay? But it seems that we're not the only ones... So I'm a bit confused by all of the 'Christmas Card' talk...

So I've been thinking into the 'why' of Christmas cards, and why they seem so important to me.

I love sending mail. I love receiving mail. But how often do I do it? Not super often. And isn't the reason I like receiving mail because of the thought that someone thought enough of ME to spend a moment of their day, write me a note, and get it into the mail? I mean, I don't get excited when I get a mass mailer, right? Say, the "for Julia T. or current resident" mail? I actually receive those frequently at our home, only addressed to the previous owner... I've tried to send them back but the mailman circles 'Or current resident' like somehow I get it by default. Well, sometimes I think that we get & give Christmas cards by default. I believe I could count on one hand the Christmas cards that had a personal note to ME inside. I've actually received a Christmas card with nothing written in it. Nothing. And it wasn't one of those 'printed' messages' pictures cards... (not that I'm sure that's any better).

So, then, what is the point of Christmas cards? honestly.

Here are other things I've considered in the past couple of weeks in relation to Christmas Cards:

-Why am I so eager to share our 'accomplishments' of the year? Why is that acceptable in a Christmas card meaning to spread the joy of Christ's birth?

I once heard someone say, "you never get a card with all of the years failures in it, it's always all of the achievements".
-Why is it that I'm all 'go green' about everything else, but I will spend several dollars for each of our Christmas cards?
-Why am I thrifty with my time to sit and write a word of encouragement to someone yet I spend a week to address cards/ pictures of my beautiful family and the year's success?
-Why is it ok to send an e-mail/ Facebook message/ post for every other situation in life and not send out this wish via the world wide web?
-Why am I striving to be 'classy' when there's no mention of class being something we are to strive for in the Bible. (I am, however, supposed to be a good steward of 'my' money;))
-I am called to care what God thinks about me, and to live my life for His glory. And my motives in sending out C.C. contradict that. As I look more internally, I see that I send them out to impress others...and how that is wrong. (it's making me think back to things I've learned in hospitality.)

These are all just thoughts that have run through my head as I've pondered the Christmas card tradition...
let me add that if you are in a position to send out cards, and you chose to do so, good for you! They are a fun tradition that make many people smile. This is just *my* thought process on the matter...and something I feel like God wanted me to think about my motives in. (I won't judge you *wink*)

In the spirit of Christmas cards, I've decided to make a 'virtual Christmas card'... one that shares the reality of our year *wink*

Reads: " 2010: A year of job loss, weight gain, and we still haven't painted the basement. May the gift of Jesus's birth overwhelm you in the best and worst of seasons! Merry Christmas, Love, the Towells"

Details

2010-11-26T07:30:00.001-05:00

I *LOVE* details!

So I thought I would post a few of my favorites from our Thanksgiving day feast...

We have a small house, so we don't have large groups of people over for dinner often.

So, when we do, I like to take every opportunity to make things special.

Plus, it's Thanksgiving, right?! *wink*

Thankful...

2010-11-25T22:32:00.000-05:00

I'm thankful for countless people and things, but these are at the top of my list:

home life...

2010-11-25T07:00:00.001-05:00

Truth be told, this has been a hard week in our home.
Adam, my husband, lost his job this past week. It was a terrible job, so we are thankful to not have the 'lurking evil' in our home, but it leaves a bit of uncertainty...

But this post is not about the struggle, it's about what I'm learning... my thoughts are still very raw on the matter, so forgive me for not delivering them in the most eloquent of ways...

Things I'm learning ~~at school~~ in life:

Most everything in life is relative. How 'bad' things are, how 'good' things are... it's all relative.
I often think Adam and I couldn't be any more broke...but we could. We are.
I often think we couldn't live in a 'lesser' home, and even if that were true, we could be back living with my mom... and, in the near future, we may. And while that seems pretty crappy, it's still not as terrible as the majority of the world lives...

God can and will make an example of me if I let Him. So the question is: do I want to be an example? Ask me that ten years ago, I don't even have to think about my answer, it's a resounding "NO!" But today... it's a yes. And I know what that means... It often means suffering. To what degree? I don't know. But I do know one thing with every bit of my being: I would rather be suffering with God, than sailing on smooth waters without Him. I know that FOR SURE. And I don't say that recklessly, I say that after nearly thirty years of God proving to me that the other side of the 'storm' is far better than what I can imagine my life being.

I am ungrateful. I've said it before, Adam and I live in a small house that is not in the greatest of neighborhoods. We have friends that pay more in property taxes per month than we do for our mortgage. And while I am so thankful for our home, I often find myself being very prideful. Prideful in my thriftiness, in how we 'make the most' of our humble home. But the truth is, that leaves behind God's grace in the matter. The fact that I don't deserve any of it...any of it. Romans 6:23 says that the wages of my sin is death, so as long as I'm alive on this earth, I'm living under God's mercy. I often forget this...

God makes good on his promises. There's no explaining here, it's a fact. God will take care of me. Maybe not how I imagine it looking like, but exactly how He planned it.

I will never stop learning... God willing!

Thanks for letting me blab on here...

This picture reminded me of how there's always 'sun' to peak into life... looking for it is the key.

{Kayt: 37 is the new 27}

2010-11-24T15:30:00.000-05:00

When Kayt, or 'KT' as I endearingly call her, wrote me enquiring about a birthday shoot, I jumped on it! KT is a beautiful outdoor girl, who grew up in and embraces 'the country' and has been a dear friend of mine for nearly a decade. So, where better to shoot than out in the fields near her old stomping grounds.

Happy Birthday, KT! I hope thirty-seven really is the new twenty-seven for you this year! *wink*

{Bowen: Family Shoot}

2010-11-24T11:52:00.000-05:00

Remley and I were instant friends, so his perfect two-year-old boyish personality and our new-found friendship made for a fun adventure of a shoot!

Thank you, Julie and Mike, for letting me share in some of your precious family time!

Feelin' Crafty!

2010-11-09T14:24:00.000-05:00

I think I'm posting this online so that maybe, just maybe, I will actually follow through with making these crafty things that have been filling my mind. I heard this phrase from a friend, and I claim this statement: My 'follow through' is broken! So, this is really just a means of accountability for me. (For the life of me I can't figure out which of my friends 'coined' that phrase...if it's you, TELL ME... I should pay you royalties.. I say this often!)

Below are a couple of pictures of said items that I found on easy. I will follow up with the shop link, so you can purchase them if you're so inclined. I have no relationship with these shop-owners, I just stumbled upon their products and I'm inspired to craft up something similar. Also, to be clear, these are not my photographs!

I'm loving this 'home' set of pillows! one, because I'm a bit obsessed with 'Words With Friends' right now (an online scrabble of sorts) and two, because I LOVE my home! I think I may make them for the sofa in my office, and have them spell 'work' on one side and 'play' on the other... since Atticus likes to play in my office. I envision someday he will send me a 'code' via those pillows of when he's sick of me working and would like to play, we will see. (Check out her store.)

I'm a bit obsessed with making Atticus's gifts. In my head at least. I have grand ideas of making all of these 'Etsy-like' toys that he adores and that can be passed on to other children we may have. So, since we are incorporating the alphabet in every way we can right now, I'm dreaming of making this for Christmas. Now, this lady is the BOSS of all things felt, (check out her store) her whip-stich is like something out of a magazine, so I don't imagine mine will look anything like hers, but you get the idea.

Interaction time: do you have anything you're dreaming of making for your home or as a gift? please share!

Gratitude

2010-11-08T14:17:00.001-05:00

I was driving to the store this morning with Atticus in the back seat. Now, Atticus has had an ultra-ego in the car lately. It's like we literally flip a switch when we put him into his car seat, and he starts begging and whining for everything he sees... a cup, a CD, a book, anything really. So after my normal "Mommy is driving, and I won't be getting anything else for you" speech, I started to tune out the noise coming from the back seat. Just as I was about to scold him for whining, I realized he was looking around, swaying from side to side, and singing along with the music...worship music to God.

(Lyrics:
Our God is greater, our God is stronger, God you are higher than any other.
Our God is Healer, Awesome in Power, Our God! Our God!
Our God is greater, our God is stronger, God you are higher than any other.
Our God is Healer, Awesome in Power, Our God! Our God!
And if our God is for us, then who could ever stop us.
And if our God is with us, then what could stand against.
And if our God is for us, then who could ever stop us.
And if our God is with us, then what could stand against.
Then what could stand against.)

I can't begin to put into words the feelings that welled up inside of me. Tears rolled down my cheeks (as they are now as I write this)... It took me a minute to recognize the feeling taking over me... it was a deep sense of gratitude and humility. I could do nothing but thank God through my tears for this overwhelming joy that I was feeling.

The list of things that I'm deeply grateful for is long, but today I feel strangely grateful for my freedom. This may seem unrelated, but my first thought as I heard Atticus singing along to worship music was just how thankful I am that Jesus died for him. And that he's given a chance to live a ridiculously full life serving Christ, and having to do nothing for it... and then it came over me that he gets to hear about Jesus in so many situations. And how much easier it is for me to share God's love with him when it's played on the radio, when we get to go to an awesome church, when I get to meet with a friend in Panera and talk about our Bible study while he eats breakfast...there are countless occasions.

Now those of you know know me well, know that I am not a patriotic person. I'm not political, and I'm not patriotic. I don't believe that America is a sacred place, just, for now, a relatively safe place. (Still not my eternal home!) Don't get me wrong, I am extremely grateful that I live in a country full of freedoms... but I have always attributed that to God's sovereignty and grace on me. I believe whole-heartedly in James 1:17 ("Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of heavenly lights who does not change like shifting shadows."). But today, in addition to God's grace on me, I felt a new gratitude for those who have fought to secure this freedom Christ has given me.

So, today I guess I feel 'patriotic'.
I am so thankful to the individuals who have given their time, their quality of life, and some, their earthly lives, so that my son can sit in the back seat and sing to Jesus.

Thank you will never be enough.

New Flash: Adorable Subject

2010-11-03T07:45:00.002-04:00

I've been needing to practice bouncing my new flash for my upcoming indoor sessions, and what better time to do it, than in Atticus's dark room when he woke from his nap!

I love these pictures, they capture who Atticus is right now...

full of attitude, and not quite sure about anything...

Oh, and I learned a thing or two about bouncing my flash, too *wink*

(these are all unedited so you can see the difference in lighting...)

I was trying to get Atticus to wink at me in this last one...he's quite the 'copy cat' these days!

(*this image has some editing*)

Oh Sunny Day

2010-11-02T13:52:00.001-04:00

So, before you wish for a glorious, sun-filled day for your photo shoot...

I wanted to give you a little glimpse of the end result of pictures in the sun vs. the shade.

Now, sure you can find shade on a sunny day, but your options are a bit more limited.
Wouldn't you rather have pictures taken in the exact location that you choose, instead of finding the side of the barn with the best shade?

Just thought I'd bring the ideal weather forecast of this (Family/ Child) photographer to you!

In a shady spot..

Out in the glorious Sun.

On that same note there are times that you can get sun in your lens and can make for an amazing, picturesque scape. But kids don't get that... and since I'm primarily a children/ family photographer... I'll save the sunshine for playing at the park or taking pictures of my dreamy husband. (see previous entry *wink*)

My Husband is Hot!

2010-10-31T23:12:00.002-04:00

I know it's kind of tacky to say, but well, my husband is HOT!

I know 'hot' isn't the most 'grown-up' word to say, but I'm saying it anyways!

Don't you think wives should think their husbands are hot?

That word gets tossed around for men in show business that we don't even know,

and probably are some pretty lousy characters in their real lives.

So, I'm saying it...MY HUSBAND IS HOT!!!

Inside and out... I'm pretty proud to call him mine!

He is a loving, caring, godly man, that tries his hardest to be

the husband and father God created him to be.

Here's a pictorial 'ode' to my love, AKT.

The sunlight and the forrest only add to his dreaminess.. *wink*

PS. Adam is not a fan of me taking his picture... I always have to 'sneak' and catch him in a moment.
Here, he was watching Atticus play in the leaves.

My Little Scarecrow

2010-10-29T22:16:00.001-04:00

Trick-or-treat was a bit different this year... Adam and Atticus were both not feeling well, but I wanted Atticus to be able to hand out candy. (And selfishly I wanted to get a couple of pictures of him in his 'costume'...) So I dressed him up as quickly as possible, bribing him with candy to get his face paint on.

I was ill-prepared this year, (trick or treat totally snuck up on me!) so I pulled weeds from the garden to act as 'straw' and I used one of my winter hats, tucked under, as his straw hat.

It worked, considering he had it on for maybe 10 minutes.

We got some fun pictures before the meltdown~

He was a bit startled by all of the scary masks at first, but he got in the swing of giving the candy away... Atticus loves giving people things... it's one of his fun little 'quirks':)

*He has my vote for the cutest scarecrow there ever was!

Pepper Play (and a little Quick Tip)

2010-10-26T23:33:00.000-04:00

I realized that my posts have been all work and no play: a reflection of my life these days! *wink*

So, I decided to do a post bidding farewell to the beautiful red peppers that I have eaten almost every meal over the summer. Thankfully, I bought up quite a few (15 to be exact) at the grocery this past week (they were $1 each) so I could freeze them and have them all winter.

I chopped and chopped and chopped, then put them into freezer bags... enter: Quick Tip.

I discovered this a month or so when buying up raspberries, and even took a picture to use for a future 'QT'...

Now, I'm new to the 'freezing world', so some of you may already do this, but I've been using a straw to get all of the air out of the nooks and cranny's of whatever I'm freezing. (see picture below.) I just insert the straw in the far end of the bag, zip up to the straw, then suck all of that air out! It works pretty well.

I'm sure it doesn't hold a candle to those fancy machines, but neither does the cost.

So, what do you buy bulk to store for the winter?

{Silas is One}

2010-10-26T17:20:00.000-04:00

Dear friends of mine, that now live in Kentucky, happened to be in town to celebrate Silas's birthday with their families and I was lucky enough to get to have a fun little one year old session with them!

Thanks, BeViers for letting me hang out with your great family! All of your boys are a delight!

Senioritis

2010-10-25T01:45:00.001-04:00

I think I may have the photographer's form of 'Senioritis'...in the best way possible.

I'm a bit in love with seniors at this point in my photography career.

They make a shoot so simple and fun and, well, a senior shoot holds endless possibilities! They are often willing to 'strike a pose' or get in strange, uncomfortable positions all for the sake of the shot! There's no tantrums when they're getting weary, they push through.

So, here's my 'ode' to seniors!!

(and a few pictures of seniors I've shot in the past couple of weeks that have yet to make their 'debut' on my website...)

Meet: Noelle, Kathleen, Paul and Joshua

Away too Long...

2010-10-18T16:11:00.000-04:00

Well, I suppose this is evidence that things are going well in the photography world... It's October and I'm barely keeping my head above water. Not complaining, just adjusting.

Here's a glimpse at what I've been up to since we last spoke...

Tomatoes

2010-10-10T23:57:00.000-04:00

We have had an abundance of cherry tomatoes this summer, which is delightful for all of us , mostly Atticus!

In wondering what to do with all of these little pods of yumminess, a friend suggested I slow roast them...so I did. (Thanks Mary! Mary also provided us with the magic plants;))

I put them in the oven on a cookie sheet at 250 degrees for a couple of hours sprinkled with olive oil, minced garlic and rosemary. Then, once they were ready, I took them out, put them in a jar, and covered them with vegetable oil (about 1/2 cup?)...and into the fridge they went. I didn't really have time to prepare a meal with them for about a week... so when I did, I drained them and set the oil aside.

With the tomatoes I was able to make tomato sauce, then I used the seasoned oil to fry up some panko crusted chicken, and then came the greatest treasure: I popped some popcorn on the stove with the remainder of the oil then topped with Parmesan cheese. It was honestly one of the most savory things I've eaten in a long time!

Lots of rambling...all to lead tho this glorious bowl of popcorn!

Try it out and Enjoy!

New Baby Bundles

2010-10-07T14:45:00.001-04:00

I'm happy to introduce two new 'bundles' to the JFP family!

A way to save while still capturing all of those precious milestones!

{Birth to 1-year Bundles}

Bundle One: $475 (savings of $275)

Includes:

*Infant Session (within 2 weeks of birth)

*3-month Session

*6-month Session

*9-month Session

*1-year Session

Bundle Two: $300 (savings of $150)

Includes:

*Infant Session (within 2 weeks of birth)

*6-month Session

*1-year Session

** Maternity Sessions can be added to Birth to 1-year bundles for $100**

Feel free to contact me for more information!

juliasfocusphotography@gmail.com

{Infants}

2010-10-04T14:12:00.000-04:00

I love the thought of being a great infant photographer! I see a lot of my photog friends' images and have to remind myself to close my mouth from the utter infatuation of their shots!

(my favorite infant photographer: my friend, Jaci at Red Balloon Studio!)

So today, I had my second infant shoot, and I have to say that I realize just how much practice and experience goes into infant shoots. Photography in general is a learning game, but infants take it to a whole new level!

Here are some of my favorites from the two infant shoots I've done...I hope to have more opportunities to learn and perfect my skill!

Big sister, Cora is one of my favorite photography subjects! A total doll!;)

Daddy Time

2010-09-30T23:45:00.000-04:00

The moments after Adam comes home get better and better the sillier and more ornery Atticus gets!

I love that I could catch one of these 'sessions' on my camera.

Atticus LOVES his Daddy!!!

His face here just makes me SMILE!

Baking pt.2

2010-09-29T21:43:00.001-04:00

(Aren't lemons so enticing?! all of that COLOR!)

Citrus pound cake was another in my notebook since 2006...and this is a new favorite! We've been snacking on it like crazy...Atticus has even been begging for it after each meal.

I ended up not making the syrup, so if you try it, you'll have to let me know how it is!..I served it with fresh raspberries (they were on sale for $1ea this week!) and some chocolate mousse..YUM!

I caught some great pics while making this as I had to 'zest' a lemon...so Atticus got to partake in the lemon meat...he has such a love-hate relationship with lemons...totally cracks me up!

Enjoy!

(I'm having copy & paste problems... total user error...so forgive the 'funkiness' of the layout of this post *wink*)

Citrus Pound Cake With Cranberry Syrup

Ingredients

4 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon grated orange zest
1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
2 sticks unsalted butter, at room temperature, plus more for the pan
2 1/4 cups granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
1/2 cup fresh orange juice
2 tablespoons orange liqueur (optional)

Directions

Heat oven to 325° F. Butter a 9-by-5-inch loaf pan.
In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, vanilla, and zests. In a large bowl, with an electric mixer on medium-high, beat the butter for 2 minutes. Add 1 1/4 cups of the sugar and the salt and beat for 2 minutes. Slowly add the egg mixture. Beat for 3 minutes. Reduce speed to low and slowly add the flour. Transfer the batter to the prepared pan. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes.
Transfer pan to a wire rack to cool for 10 minutes. Using a knife, loosen the cake from pan. Invert it onto the rack. Turn it over again onto a serving plate.
In a saucepan, over medium heat, simmer the cranberries, orange juice, and the remaining sugar until the berries burst, 5 to 7 minutes. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes. Strain the syrup into a bowl and stir in the liqueur (if using). Slice the cake and serve with the warm syrup.

Boring picture, I know...I was too busy eating it once it was all 'dressed up'!

Baking

2010-09-29T13:12:00.000-04:00

I've always been quite intimidated by baking...maybe that's because I often confuse baking soda and baking powder or because I feel like a teaspoon can be estimated by a few shakes... or because I have been known to go down the list of ingredients, adding each into the bowl, before I look at the instructions (opps!)

Despite all of that, I have turned a new leaf! I have started baking... and now that I've started, I dare you to try to stop me! *wink*

These recipes have been in my 'bake me' book of recipes that I've gathered over the years...since 2006!! So, it's about time I whipped them up!

I have a couple of recipes to post... so I better get to it!

Bake away!

signed, Julia Towell...not to be confused with Julia Child (giggle)

Applesauce Spice Cake by Real Simple 2006

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for the pan
2 teaspoons baking soda
1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
1 stick unsalted butter, plus more for the pan
1 cup granulated sugar
1 2/3 cups jarred chunky applesauce
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger
pinch ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1 cup dark or golden raisins
2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar
2 pints vanilla ice cream

Directions

Heat oven to 350° F. Butter and flour a 9-inch springform or round cake pan.
In a small bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. In a large saucepan, over medium heat, melt the butter. Remove from heat and stir in the granulated sugar, applesauce, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, vanilla, and eggs. Add the flour mixture and stir just until combined. Stir in the raisins. Pour into the prepared pan.
Bake the cake until a tester inserted in the center comes out clean, 35 to 40 minutes. Transfer pan to a wire rack to cool for 10 minutes. Using a knife, loosen the cake from pan. Invert it onto the rack. Turn it over again onto a serving plate. Sprinkle the cake with the confectioners' sugar, slice into wedges, and serve with the ice cream

Game Day

2010-09-27T00:03:00.001-04:00

Adam and I went to Cincinnati this weekend for the Oklahoma/ Cincy game...

it was such a blissful day for us!

It couldn't have been a more beautiful night and it was a great game!

Now, this is where Adam and I differ: I think a close game = a good game.

I kept saying, "even though I want Oklahoma to win, I can appreciate a good play for the other team"...he would promptly roll his eyes. He explained that a good play for the other team is a bad play for his team, so he wasn't going to find any pleasure in that. I guess that's what separates me from the real 'fans'. I truly enjoyed seeing the fans of the other team scream and yell of excitement almost as much as I did when 'our' team had a great play. Needless to say, I'm so thankful that OU won, even if it was just by 2 points! It could have been a very long drive home if things when the other way!! *wink*

I just brought my Coolpix with me, but I got a few shots of the beautiful stadium and it's surroundings...it really is an amazing setting! And I always have a hard time not photographing large crowds of people... *sigh*

Adam and I haven't had a picture of the two of us that I 'approved of' for several months now...so we (I) took a lot!

Thrifty Find

2010-09-24T07:00:00.003-04:00

You read that right! I got this amazing carafe at the thrift store for $2.98.

It's totally vintage and cute and lovely..AND it keeps coffee warm for hours and hours...I tried it!

A-mazing!

(Poor Adam says that I buy things just because they're a great deal ...I say who doesn't NEED a carafe?!)

Hospitality vs. Pride

2010-09-24T06:03:00.000-04:00

I had a lovely brunch with a friend this week, and we got to talking a bit about what we {women} do to ourselves in the name of 'hospitality'. I often struggle with finding a balance between 'fluffing' things to make people feel welcome, and 'perfecting' things to hide the 'real' in my life.

I think that these issues go deeper than cleaning my house and hiding the dirty laundry, it comes down to not being real to people. About putting up a wall (ie. a clean house) to only let people see the 'neat' parts of my life. Not the messy, 'I suck at this' parts.

I've just been thinking a lot about what exactly it means to be hospitable... And I think it means being open in home and in heart.

This is a messy area for me, but it's on my mind a lot, so hopefully God will start 'working on me'...

Ode to Summer

2010-09-23T12:25:00.000-04:00

Summer has officially ended (although it's been long gone in my mind)! Most of you who know me know that I don't prefer Summer. That's a lie. I, very much so, dislike Summer. But it an effort to be grateful to its Creator and all of the fun events of the season, I am going through Summer pictures and compiling collages of some of our favorite memories. I'll be posting them for the next week or so, here and there.

Here goes it... HAPPY FALL!!! *BIG smile on my face*

The first is from the splash pad in Norman, OK. Where Adam and I lived when we were first married. We were visiting dear friends, so it made the splash pad even sweeter. Atticus didn't enjoy it until the last 5 minutes or so...he inched closer and closer and finally realized the shooting water was his friend.

Atticus was so ornery but still very pensive that day... he wasn't sure what was going on...

Oh, Heaven's, I love this kid and all of his crouching glory!

Quick Tip: Chalkboard

2010-09-23T06:01:00.001-04:00

So, I'll admit it, I'm a bit obsessed with chalkboards. I think I always have been...looking back to the day when I painted my entire (hideous green) refrigerator with chalkboard paint. I will still stick to my opinion that it was a brilliant idea, you make your own judgement.

Now-a-days, I have smaller items in my house as chalkboards *wink*.

I bought several of these 'decal' thingies that you can peel the back off and stick wherever. Which are super cool... BUT my friend Sarah gave me an 'upgrade' with a fancy frame on it...just wait, it's amazing!

So, where's the quick tip, you ask?

*Get a chalkboard*

They come in so many forms now (yes, even paint!)... and really, who doesn't love finding notes in the morning, or leaving them for that matter. We have used our chalkboards for writing Bible verses, love notes, grocery lists, the neighbor's names (true story), and right now, the fancy board gets the week's menu on it! So fun! And now when Adam walks into the house from work, he knows just what we're having for dinner...pretty fun!

{Rob & E: Maternity}

2010-09-22T13:19:00.000-04:00

She has been one of my sister's closest friend since we were in high school. So, naturally Erica is someone that I love dearly and was so excited to capture moments from this magical phase in her and Rob's life.

Enjoy*

(Ps. I bought this sheet (backdrop) at the thrift store JUST for E's session *wink*)

Proverbs

2010-09-21T23:05:00.000-04:00

Since we moved into our house, coming up on a year ago, I have savored nap time.

Now I know every mother reading this is saying 'DUH?!' But, not only have I savored it for it's silence and 'rejuvenating factor', I've savored it because I can light a candle, sit in my big cozy chair, and sip my (reheated) coffee as I read.

And even though I enjoy my time reading the Bible alone, I've been putting a lot of thought into how I could incorporate the Bible into Atticus's life, without it being a 'chore-like' time. I've always loved reading the 'Proverb of the Day' (30/31 days a month/ 31 Proverbs), so I've decided to read Proverbs aloud each day as Atticus plays. And it has truly become one of my most treasured times of the day. He will often come sit on my lap for a moment and then crawl down to return to his play. Or he will come up and kiss my knee as I'm reading. I can't help but think that by inviting the Holy Spirit into our home in such a tangible way, he feels peaceful and safe in that moment.

More than anything, I want God's word to be something that is commonplace...

regardless of how much he understands at this point.

Who knew that I could share my 'reading time' and still thoroughly enjoy it?!

I think it makes it sweeter that I get to read from the pages of my Granny's Bible... she passed away earlier this year. I often will come across something she saved, or a note she wrote in the margin...

It's a lovely reminder of the legacy that we pass down to our children...and their children...and...

(Ps. I STILL look forward to nap time!!)

Muffins

2010-09-21T06:47:00.004-04:00

I found this recipe at allrecipes.com and since I had extra bananas and K* was coming over, I figured we would try it out! We ate them right away, possibly more than one, I can't remember *wink*... it had to be that crumble topping..YUM! I've already made them again! I have a feeling that this might be a Fall/Winter staple.

Enjoy!!

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 bananas, mashed
3/4 cup white sugar
1 egg, lightly beaten
1/3 cup butter, melted
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon butter
Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Lightly grease 10 muffin cups, or line with muffin papers.
In a large bowl, mix together 1 1/2 cups flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt. In another bowl, beat together bananas, sugar, egg and melted butter. Stir the banana mixture into the flour mixture just until moistened. Spoon batter into prepared muffin cups.
In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, 2 tablespoons flour and cinnamon. Cut in 1 tablespoon butter until mixture resembles coarse cornmeal. Sprinkle topping over muffins.
Bake in preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into center of a muffin comes out clean

My little friend, K* looking cute as a button while outside playing with Ellie...

Weekend Project

2010-09-20T12:41:00.001-04:00

I found these puppies in the trash. Two matching 'side tables' ..one missing the legs. So, I painted them up and stacked them....and now I LOVE them!! They might be my new favorite thing in our home!

I will post the weekend's projects as we finish them...there's lots of fun stuff!:)

{Anna: Senior}

2010-09-20T02:34:00.000-04:00

I'm trying to catch-up with session posts from when I was 'in between' sites. So, let me introduce you to Anna. Anna and I met when she was a young seventh grader and I was her 'junior high' worker at church. I loved Anna right away. One of my favorite memories with her is when she and another 'jr. higher' spent the night. We had chocolate fondue and they had it everywhere! It was far from the classy experience of fondue, but oh-so-fun! Anna, thanks for sharing the evening and a Diet Coke from McDonalds with me (the only place to get a D.C. *wink*)... we'll have to do it again soon!

Get ready for some stunning pictures...Anna's quite the 'looker'!!

The Small Things

2010-09-17T07:30:00.003-04:00

It's the small things in marriage...

I make coffee for him (via auto-brew), he feels appreciated.

He leaves a note, I feel loved.

It's a great day!

{Myres: Family}

2010-09-16T07:30:00.035-04:00

Paul has been a friend of mine since I was a junior in high school. I have lots of fun memories with him and our group of friends that year. We lost touch, but reconnected again about a year ago. Adam and I have had the delight of getting to know Paul and his (much) better half, Aimee. *wink*

And soon after we met Aimee, we got news that they were expecting little Emma. We love all of the time we get to spend with Paul, Aimee and Emma, but this past Saturday we got to do a mini-shoot and have lunch at Graffiti Burger! What more can you ask for, right?!

So, here's a little glimpse into the beautiful Myres family and our day together!

"OH-IO"

(Is there something wrong with me if this is my favorite image from the shoot?)

Then we had lunch...

Little Man and his hat

2010-09-15T23:16:00.000-04:00

I love the quirky personalities of children. And I love it even more when they have a physical manifestation.
Atticus has started an obsession with hats. He has about ten words (maybe) that he says...
One of his favorites is 'hat'. (Not to compete with 'ball' which is his all-time favorite word...don't know if that one's ever going to fade!...we'll tell 'ball stories another time!)

I don't remember exactly when this started, but it's been going on for a while now. He's even reached for strangers to pick him up to get to their hats. Poor unsuspecting elderly with their big-brimmed sun hats... they think the sweet child is reaching because of their gentle spirit, then snatch! He's got them bowing away to save their dignity! (yes, it's happened just like this multiple times.)

Well, today, he reached an all time high (or low, depending on your perspective *wink*). First, he insisted on wearing a hat while eating lunch...which for a clean, mannerly eater, would be no issue. But for Atticus, (a boy who we routinely strip down for meals) it meant disaster. I decided that it wasn't something I was opposed to, nor did I care to fight over it, so he ate 'mexican chicken' wearing a hat. And in the end, the hat ended up wearing mexican chicken. It was a great photo-op! And later in the night he graduated to not one, but two hats.

I'm loving all that comes along with this little man...even the things I don't love so dearly (temper, fits, SIN), make me smile at the end of the day! Mostly because I know we made it through another day...and I think I love this kid a little more with each sunset!

{Quintin & Sarah}

2010-09-13T21:32:00.000-04:00

I just mailed their image CD today... and I was so happy editing these pictures.
Honestly, doesn't everyone want picture with the person they love that truly expresses those 'ahh' feelings? I really saw the 'ahh' in these... So I'm going to post away.
Thank you, Quintin & Sarah for letting me be a part of your love story!

Decisions, decisions...

2010-09-13T10:45:00.000-04:00

This morning has been a bit of a pensive morning.
I have been thinking a lot about the direction I want to take Julia's Focus Photography (JFP).

This may sound a bit silly and a waste of space on the World Wide Web, but, hey, it's my blog, right? *wink*

I have felt an urgent need to do all of those business savvy things like make business cards (my business cards are fabulous! made by my friend Sarah), build a website, promote myself shamelessly... all of which are fine things, but they're not me. I have somehow neglected to remember that God has always taken care of me, and that being faithful and serving Him in all that I do guarantees my success*.

* Let me further explain my view of success so I don't end up sounding like Joel Olstein here: Success is totally a relative term. And when I say that being faithful to God (and to who God made me to be) in my business venture guarantees success, I just mean that I will be accomplishing my ultimate goal, pleasing my Creator and Savior. And as disappointing as failing at my photography business would be, it's short term.

All this to say that I've been struggling with the website part of my business. I enjoy blogging so much, and would much rather blog about things that I feel God puts on my heart and mind... about my adventures in motherhood, friendship, whatever... than to spend hours of my time making/ updating a website to promote my business. And the truth is, JFP surprises me every day! Word of mouth (and Facebook!) seems to be the best promotion anyways.

These are all 'first draft' thoughts, and I would LOVE your feedback!
Thanks for listening.

*And because everyone likes a picture with a post, here's a shot I took of Adam last night.
I'm utterly in love with this man... he makes everything in my life better.

2:23am

2010-09-13T02:13:00.006-04:00

Because it's 2:23am and I'm up editing... I get to share.

And this is what the sky looked like as I took this shoot...

...not a lick of editing on this picture!..this is 100% God-colored!

good day...now I must be off for my beauty rest. *wink*

Good Morning!

2010-09-12T08:00:00.000-04:00

I've been waking to this image each morning on my computer screen...

It just makes me happy.

So, I thought I would pass it along...

Happy Sunday!

Quick Tip: Ice-box Menu

2010-09-11T22:37:00.000-04:00

I saw this idea in a parenting magazine: to use the ice box in the freezer to list 'menu items'.

I thought it was the greatest...

So now we're using it in our home!

It's pretty self-explanitory. But for blog sake I will explain: I just write the main courses (usually meats) on the ice-box door in dry erase marker. I put tally marks on things we have multiples of, and mark them off as we use them. You could really write anything that would be helpful for you to remember: leftovers you have in there, whatever.

It's been nice to just look at the list instead of searching through that ridiculous 'bin' that holds all of the things that don't fit anywhere else...or fall out of everywhere else.

(don't act like you don't know 'the bin'!)

Let me know if you think this idea would be helpful at your home. If you adopt it, send a picture of what your home's interpretation of the 'Ice box Menu' looks like!

Happy time management!

*Photo Disclaimer: We have a 'galley-style' kitchen...(with very poor lighting!:)) I was nearly in the sink trying to get far enough away from the fridge, at a good angle, to get these pictures.

Donuts: part two

2010-09-10T21:52:00.005-04:00

This is really a cheat of a blog post...but I promised a 'part two', so I'm staying true to my word!

I was feeling super sick yesterday, but we had dinner plans, and I made a promise to the mother of three of the cutest little red-head boys (two of three pictured below),

that I would bring homemade donuts.

(quick tip: never promise a 'classic' (ie. donuts) on try #1!)

(disclaimer:...not an official 'Quick Tip' *wink*)

So as I went back and forth as to whether or not I felt well enough to go to dinner, I searched for two round things the appropriate sizes for donuts.

(I ended up using a large glass and a lid to some vanilla. Genius or ill-prepared? I'm not sure!)

I fried those bad boys up, tossed them in a (non-measured) bowl of sugar, brown sugar and cinnamon, and we hit the road.

(I did go to dinner...and it was lovely!)

And, I must say, they were surprisingly good for sitting in tupperware for two hours.

I'm excited to eat them next time, straight from the stove top!

Sorry, it totally slipped my mind to get a picture of the donuts all 'dressed up'.

*This picture was taken over the summer when said red-headed boys came over to play

Midday Visit

2010-09-10T12:26:00.000-04:00

Earlier this week, we had a visit from baby Landon and his mamma, Danni... it was such a lovely break in our week!

I often wonder what Atticus will be like around a baby, and although I was a nervous wreck every time he went near Landon with a toy in hand, he did rather well. He patted his back as Danni was burping him, and even 'Shh-ed' me a few times (no, Landon wasn't sleeping;)). I must put a disclaimer out there that Landon might actually be the perfect baby, rarely making a sound and laughing at everything Atticus did (even the things that made me jump from my seat). But either way, it was really fun to see them interacting, and it is exciting to think about what great friends they will be when their one-year age difference is irrelevant.

Now, although Landon is fun, Danni was the highlight of my afternoon. She is such a faithful friend to me, and is an encouragement every time I'm around her. Our time together has been much more sparse this past year than either of us had imagined, but there's grace in our friendship, which is a glorious thing.

I'm just so thankful for good, God-fearing friends...It seems that God knows just what he's doing in the way of friendships in my life (imagine that!)...I should really consider letting go and trusting Him in this area, and just enjoying all of the people that come in and out of my life...whatever their 'purpose' at that season..

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!

I couldn't resist photographing these 'baby blues'!!

Weekend Wedding

2010-09-09T09:14:00.013-04:00

My cousin and his lovely (now) wife had a beautiful wedding this past weekend.

I was not their photographer, (in fact, I felt it my job to NOT take many pictures and to NOT get in the way) but I wanted to post a couple fun images I snapped from their day...

They're 'motorcycle people'!

Lots of fun details...

This picture makes me laugh...my niece, Ava is such a delicate little flower girl *wink*...

Who can resist a toddler in suspenders?

(I didn't end up using a flash, but this picture's lighting turned out so enticing...

surprisingly, just what I wanted! It's fun learning.)

Owen (the groom's nephew and the ring bearer) was so adorable in this little Converses! I loved this family shot of the brother of the groom and his family.

Paul & Rachel, we love you and are SO happy for you!

**pictures are watermarked for copyright purposes only, these pictures were taken by 'Cousin Julia' NOT 'Julia's Focus Photography' *wink*

Donuts: part one

2010-09-08T16:53:00.006-04:00

My friend Megan posted a recipe for Buttermilk Donuts last week on her blog and it made me crave some fall sweetness. I remember, as a child, going over to a relative's house and making donuts... it was a lovely fall tradition and it made me want that for Atticus, and for my niece and nephews (and, secretly, I know that donut making will automatically give me the spot of the 'cool Aunt' *wink*).

So Atticus and I got to trying out making donuts...

we only got the dough made today...

things take a bit longer when a 16 month-old is part of the process...

I'll post a 'part two' (hopefully tomorrow) when we get them fried up!

Quick Tip: Intro

2010-09-08T10:29:00.008-04:00

So, I read a lot.

I read a lot of blogs, magazines, websites, you name it, I read it...when I find the time. *wink*

So, as I conversed with a BFF, and told her something I had been doing to save time, it hit me: I've collected all of these 'tips' from different places, and I should share them more freely. So, here goes.. I'm going to start a little 'segment' of my blog dedicated to 'Quick Tips'...and it will be called just that. I'll share all sorts of things... some cooking related, some cleaning related, some organizational...just whatever.

Now, let me be the first to say (SHOUT!) that I'm not a great housekeeper. I'm not great at a lot of things that are in my job description as SAHM (stay-at-home-mom)/ Homemaker. BUT, I think I'm continually getting better at it due to tips I stumble on along the way. So, if you have a great tip...please share! I'm always looking to learn!!!

Quick Tip:

About once a week, I put a whole chicken in the Crockpot. Either in the AM, and leave it all day, or I will put in in before I go to bed, and leave it overnight. You could season it all sorts of ways, but I usually put a couple cups of water, and some salt and pepper in there...maybe a bullion cube, and let 'er go! I put that baby in there frozen, to minimize the 'steps' then when she's all cooked up, I will just piece off the chicken (then freeze, make casserole's, whatever). We will often have 3-4 meals off of one (little) bird. These things are so cheap ($3-4), it seems wrong to get so many meals from it! Aaand, if you're up for it, you can also freeze the stock, and use it for soups, other chicken meals, gravy, whatever. Now, let me say that the chicken 'taking apart' is no fun! It can take about 15-20 minutes, and it's a little gross, but it's worth it in the end (I think).

Here's a look at my bird of the day (it makes the house smell all yummy, too):

If you have a 'Quick Tip' to contribute, please leave a comment! I will get in touch with you and I will link your blog here also! Thanks!:)

A Birthday Miracle..

2010-09-06T10:44:00.007-04:00

So, I have neglected to give my husband props for the 'Birthday Miracle' he pulled off.

Let me preface with: my husband is a constantly wonderful husband! He's loving, patient, selfless...but *not* a gift giver! This has been something I've harped on through our marriage (like it was my job).

But this year, Adam made it a priority to make me feel special the entire week.

Here is the list of events:

Monday:

Woke me saying "happy birthday week" before he headed to work. (small but mighty;))

Tuesday:

He wrote on the bathroom mirror " happy 2 days until your birthday, I love you!"

Surprised me for a dinner at the Cheesecake factory (my birthday favorite) and had my mom keep Atticus overnight so I could sleep in and have a morning to myself.

Wednesday: (Lunch & pedicure with my mom) Adam cooked 'snack dinner' and we relaxed:)

Thursday (my actual birthday): (lunch with my sister) Arranged for our dear friends to bring over yummy Greek food for dinner...and gave me the greatest little gift!

This is, in fact, a birthday miracle! I anticipate years to come of great birthdays:)

I just wanted to post a couple of pictures of my new necklace, which I just adore.

(Each of the 'discs' is a magnetic top which makes it really like 4 different necklaces..it's from the cutest little Etsy shop , Polarity)

Thanks, AKT, for the best birthday week ever;)

I Love, love LOVE you!

Oh, my dearest Fall

2010-09-04T10:32:00.003-04:00

Oh, how I love fall!

I know, lots of people love fall. And I'm not going to say how much *more* I love fall...

Just that my heart leaps a bit when I: feel the cooler breeze, get out my hoodie or jean jacket for the first time, or open up the windows after the heat of the Summer gives us a break.

I once heard how Fall represents death, and Spring, life. I won't argue the theory, but I will say that regardless of the morbid link, I ADORE FALL! (that was meant to be read aloud. Go ahead, I'll wait as you read it again *wink*)

I have to say that some of my favorite things about Fall weather moving in, are the baked goods and hearty squash themes of the food surfacing. One of my favorites is a Tomato & Roasted Red Pepper Soup that I stole from my friend Megan at Itty Smitty. I'll post the recipe below so that you can enjoy it as much as I have. I already made a double batch and it is occupying a large amount of space in our very small freezer. But I'm sure it won't be there for long!

Guess what I'm having for lunch?

Southwest Tomato & Roasted Pepper Soup

It is adapted from a Fine Cooking recipe:
1 large red bell pepper, diced (or you could use a roasted red pepper)
3T olive oil
1 large yellow onion, finely chopped.
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
3 cups chicken broth (I used 2c. and a bit of water)
28 oz. can crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup sour cream
1 Tbsp. lime juice
1/2 tsp. lime zest
Salt & Pepper

In a pot heat oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until just soft, 8-10 minutes. Stir the chili powder and cumin into the onions. Add the diced red pepper and cook another 2 minutes. Add the broth and tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Cover and simmer 15 minutes.
Let cool briefly and then puree the soup in two or three batches in a blender or food processor. Return to pot and add salt and pepper to taste.
Meanwhile, combine the sour cream, lime juice and lime zest in a small bowl.
Serve soup with a dollop of sour cream and enjoy!

Heavenly night...

2010-09-03T22:45:00.007-04:00

The weather has been unbearable...not tonight.

Our family has been too busy to relax...not tonight.

I have neglected to cook...not tonight.

We sat outside to eat dinner and then watched Atticus play in the yard.

We searched for ripe tomatoes, and played ball.

It was heavenly.

I told Adam as we basked in the setting sun and the breeze,

"I can't even take in all the joy of this moment".

I hope tomorrow holds the same!

Creation

2010-09-03T19:58:00.003-04:00

I'm pretty thankful for this new photography thing going on in my life... and I love that I get to be out in nature with all of my shoots. I'm able to take in the beauty of God's creation...and have a bit of worship time before each shoot. When I go through the images from a shoot, I get to stumble across a flower or a tree or an insect that brought me a moment with my creator... pretty cool!

Because...

2010-09-02T19:31:00.001-04:00

Because he's growing up before our eyes...

Because my camera has missed him...

Because his hair is starting to curl in the back...

Because he loves books...

Because I'm filled with joy experiencing him...

Because it's my birthday, and I didn't want to photograph anyone else...

I took pictures of Atticus all day.

Here are a few of my favorites!

Homeless...helpless...broken hearted

2010-06-08T23:32:00.002-04:00

I'm still processing this 'situation', so pardon the 'rawness' of my writing...

Yesterday I was driving on the West side of Columbus and as I exited the highway, there was a woman holding a sign, "COULD USE SOME HELP"...

Now, let me first start by saying that, (after a life-changing inner-city mission trip to Toronto while I was in High School) I have a place in my heart that aches for the homeless...or the 'sign-holders' or the 'beggars'...I know all are not homeless, but I hurt for the humiliation and inhumanity it takes to wear a sign bearing your struggles with strangers who drive by...I make efforts to look them in the eye and smile, even if I have nothing physical to offer...

But...in this situation, it wasn't the sign that caught my eye. As I drove closer, I noticed one side of this woman's face was bruised to a blueish-purple and so swollen that only a sliver of her eye could peak through. Aside from the obvious 'battle wounds', she had the saddest face I've ever seen. I turned at the light, feeling an urgency to get back to her. I drove to the first fast food restaurant I could find (a couple of miles down the road) and quickly returned to the exit (not totally sure how I was going to maneuver this, since she was 'stationed' at a highway exit ramp), but realized she was no longer there. As I drove past, disappointed, I saw her sitting at the bus stop. I pulled over to talk to her.
My heart raced as she approached my car...I could feel my emotions unable to be controlled...

Me: Are you ok?
Her: um, no, not really...

Me: well...I got you some food...Are you hungry?...
Her: yes, that's so nice...thank you sweetie..
I kissed my hand and then shook hers as I began to cry...terribly.

then I drove away.

I wanted to turn around and do something...something big...take her home with me or sit and pray with her or find her somewhere to stay, save her from this person who hurt her...and instead I said "I got you some food"...yup, that was my 'big save' moment.

As I kept driving I realized just how small I was...that I could have done those things... but I didn't. And that won't stop God from doing whatever He has planned for that woman.

I don't even know her name, but I've been praying for her... and I'm realizing that prayer is the biggest thing I can do.

Heavy Hearted

2010-05-04T12:17:00.002-04:00

A little over a week ago, at the closing of our church service, we were told that a church member's twenty-two year old son had taken his life. I have never met these people, but mourned, along with many others, thinking of that great loss the family must be experiencing.

The funeral was yesterday, and still, over a week later, not a day has passed without me crying over their loss. Again, I've never met this family, and it's not a selfless mourning on my part. I relate to this pain, not because I've experienced it, but because I can't even imagine not having Atticus in my life. I can't imagine losing him now, or in 20 years. The pain it would cause me is a place I can't even venture in my mind.

I have found myself going through what every aspect of this 'situation' might feel like. It has made me think of what it must be like to be left wondering what your child was struggling with that could make him feel so hopeless...and to not know about it. I'm now thinking more and more about ways to communicate with Atticus in the future to make a situation like this less likely... but the truth is, I can never prevent sadness in my children. I can provide them with all of the love I have, but ultimately, I have to give them to Jesus. I have to trust that He will hold and comfort them. And when things happen that are not in 'my plan', I have to trust that He is still God, and that, as unimaginable as it may be, He loves them even more than I do, and He is in control.

I continue to pray for peace and healing for the W family, along with wisdom on my part to take the experiences of others, like this, to push me closer to trusting God as I mother my child/ children.

Lovely Life

2010-03-05T22:42:00.002-05:00

So, Adam is out for a men's retreat... and I'm finding myself really enjoying the time to reflect on our home and how thankful I am for it.

We brought my Granny's hutch into the kitchen this evening and I'm enjoying putting little cherished 'nick-knacks' in it. I've stopped to gaze at it many times this evening...

Nights like this remind me of life before marriage and the babe, where I would sit in my quiet home with dim lighting and just enjoy the "noises of the house" as my Granny would call it...

..it's nice to reminisce.

Searching for Julia

2010-01-11T21:47:00.002-05:00

an old friend reminded me that I had a blog today (which I often forget)... so I thought I'd write about my current 'life process'...

1. we DID get the house

2. I forgot how much time unpacking/settling-in takes

3. I thought I'd be so much better at being a wife/mom/time manager once we had a house, turns out I was wrong...

I'm going to write a little about #3...and then some.

The past several years have been very destructive to who I thought I was. Experiences in these years have stripped me down to the core, making me come back to square one to figure out what the life of Julia is meant to be. I try, daily, to ignore this process. It overwhelms me more than I could imagine. The things that I so heavily relied on are gone, (my security in who I am in Christ, my trust in people, my willingness to put myself 'out there'...) and I'm not sure how to do 'life' without them.

I know, primarily, I need to come back to my security in Jesus. I know this with my head but struggle to wrap my heart around it. I have a hard time knowing where to begin. I feel such a dichotomy in my being...on one hand I am utterly in love with Jesus, and I weep at times thinking about His love and the actions of His love for me and humanity. On the other hand, I feel like Jesus is a stranger to me, far from my reality of life.

I have no solutions, and no specific plans for solutions...I just thought I'd share what's going on in my head these days...I'm open to your thoughts:)

Oh, and I am supposed to be a housewife, but I can't get the freaking laundry done!!!

I'll write about this another time:)

No House...

2009-09-19T15:03:00.002-04:00

So the house didn't work out...super disappointed.
I told Adam that I was going to be bitter for a week or until we found another house that I love, which ever comes first. I really did picture that house as ours, so it's hard to imagine another at this point, but I know I will...it's happened before and, quite possibly, will happen again.

So, on to the next...we're looking at houses tomorrow so maybe we will find our little casa then...that's the hope:)

Atticus Update: 4 months

2009-09-16T10:14:00.004-04:00

Atticus had his 4 month appointment on Monday. He's doing great! He weighs 12lb 11oz, and is 24.5" long. He is in the 15th percentile in weight and the 50th percentile in height. He's laughing, rolling over, and sleeping through the night on a regular basis. He turned 4 months on September 13th, and (of course) we took some pictures...

A home for the Towell's?

2009-09-16T10:05:00.002-04:00

So, we have been searching searching searching searching to find 'THE home' for us. It seems that the longer we search, the smaller our budget gets. Honestly, I was starting to think that there wasn't actually a house in the great state of Ohio that was in our price range that wasn't covered in mold, in the 'ghetto', or a one bed/ one bath 'cottage'. BUT... last night we found a house that we LOVE. We've seen several homes that were possibilities, but we were very neutral about them. This one we're actually excited about. so, cross your fingers and PRAY that we get this house...we will hopefully find out tonight. And, if it's not 'THE one' we really do know that God is taking care of us!

Birthday 2.8

2009-09-03T09:34:00.003-04:00

What a wonderful day!

I started by waking (on a sunny-75 degree day) to my loving husband muttering "happy birthday, baby" in his sleep...then to my baby boy's snuggles. I, then, had an amazing breakfast waiting for me on the stove, courtesy of my Mamma before she was off to a meeting.

After Atticus's (perfect) nap, my sister, Mamma, Atticus and I went to my FAVORITE place, Genji, for lunch. I smothered my food in Yum-Yum sauce, totally disregarding my 'oath' to Weight Watchers.

My mom gave me some 'moolah' so we ran off to steal an hour or so of shopping, in which I found several bargains I'm slightly proud of.

After Adam got home, we went to Easton, where we ate on the patio at the Cheesecake factory and shopped like crazy. Walking hand in hand, the lights hanging over the walkways were almost magical, making us feel like we were in some European city. My patient husband followed me around like it was his job, never saying a word about how badly his feet hurt...until I said I couldn't walk anymore. We both limped (literally) back to the car, then we stopped for ice cream at Greater's. (I ventured out and tried the seasonal Chocolate Coconut Almont...I highly recommend!:))

Coming home to hear my mom talk about what a great time she and Atticus had playing, and how easily he went to sleep was just the perfect ending to the perfect day!!!

Thank you, Lord for another year to live this amazing life you've given me!

Coffee Please

2009-08-27T07:37:00.004-04:00

So, I am begging for my cup of coffee this morning...not the usual 'I'll get to it when I get to it' attitude of most mornings. Atticus has been waking at about 5am for his pacifier. While I'm still grateful that he's not waking for night feedings, I was really liking the sleeping through the night, that I've been missing the past two weeks or so.

I'm trying to be the 'good mom' and put my foot down, but, honestly, I sometimes would rather give him that pacifier and get another two hours of sleep than lay there and listen to him 'cry it out'. So, it's my own fault that this has become a habit...I should have missed those two hours of sleep that first night to let him know mamma wasn't havin' it...instead I've missed...what? like 20 hours of sleep? That's exhausting just thinking about all of those hours missed...

so, this morning, I awake with the sun (no, before the sun!) and gulp down my coffee like it's a glass of water... and on to cup #2!

Kindergarten!!

2009-08-24T13:05:00.005-04:00

I can barely believe that Ava's off to her first day of Kindergarten!
As she jumped out of the car in her knee high argyle socks, plaid skirt and 'Girls rock' t-shirt, I couldn't contain myself from squeezing her!

She's grown up so much in her short little five years of life... and yet, she never ceases to remind me of how she's still my 'Teeny-Tiny'...She came into the house last weekend toting the 'blankie' that I bought for her the day she was born...when I asked her where it came from she said "you bought it for me when I was just a baby"...*smile*

I adore this little girl, all of her sass, her charisma, and her love...

Happy first day of Kindergarten, baby girl...
Ju-ju can't wait to hear all about it!!!

The Gift of Adoption

2009-08-22T09:06:00.003-04:00

today adoption is on my mind...

We have two separate friend-couples that are either meeting their new children or bringing them home today. It literally makes me feel warm inside...life hot coffee going down! I'm in love with adoption. I know that may sound funny, but it's true.

I've been thinking about Jasmine a lot the past few days (some know her story, some don't...), wondering if she's enjoying her new life, and soaking up all of the new love she's being given. Last I heard there were some problems in their new family and I'm just praying that she adjusts and grows into a beautiful young woman, confident in God's love. I miss her and I wish I could hug her and love on her...but I really do rest in knowing that Jesus loves her more than I do and that he's protecting her.

Beautiful little girl, have a great day today!

Sweetest Sound

2009-08-21T13:09:00.003-04:00

My baby laughed for the first time yesterday! it was the sweetest sound I've ever heard... I just adore him & I'm amazed at how much joy he brings to me. I had a moment while he was laughing last night where life just stood still. I took a step away from 'me' and saw my husband and I sitting on the couch enjoying ourselves more than we had in a while... all because our son was laughing! What a miracle that God could make something so tiny have such an enormous impact on our lives!

Glorified Body

2009-08-20T14:07:00.003-04:00

I woke this morning with a migraine...

to some this may foreign, but this is how I start, maintain, or end my day quite often. I have had these little 'thorns' for years...(literally I had my first migraine when I was 7 or so). They were 'well managed' for several years before I became pregnant. Let me preface that having our little boy is SO worth enduring migraines...but still not pleasant. I am taking more drugs than I ever thought I would...all with aggravating side-effects.

So, Lord, thanks for including the tidbit about the glorified bodies...it's a nice incentive...not that meeting YOU isn't enough!
just a request...I'd like to be a size 6 jeans, size 8 shoe, and not have migraines! Thanks!

night thoughts...

2009-08-19T22:34:00.004-04:00

As I'm writing this post my heart is breaking for an old friend and his wife who recently lost their six-week-old baby girl. I cry several times a week thinking of them.

I feel so helpless to protect this little person that I would literally die for. So each time I put him to bed, I pray 'Jesus take care of my baby'... last night I realized that Jesus is holding their precious baby girl, Lydie, and I pleaded that He would abide by MY interpretation of 'taking care' meaning leaving him with me...not taking him until I was gone... these are things I never thought would weigh so heavily on me...but they do.

I'm amazed at the lack of control we have on our own lives...it seems the older I get, the more aware I am of this...

Missing Daddy-time

2009-08-19T22:13:00.002-04:00

SO Atticus and I have been very spoiled having Adam here with us while he was searching for a job... now that he's working, we miss his a lot..some days are especially lonely. Yesterday, we wanted 'Daddy' to know how much we missed him and loved him... Atticus posed for an e-mail photo-op.

Mamma life

2009-08-19T10:16:00.001-04:00

It's so crazy that I'm a Mamma!!

I can't believe how much I love Atticus...with places I didn't know existed in me. It's hard to imagine the deep love of a mother for her child.. people told me about it, but it's not something you can imagine. Before him, I compared it to the love I had for my niece or nephew, or even my beloved dog, but it's this miracle like none I've experienced. The thought that someone who wakes you at 4am can make you smile in your miserable longing for sleep... that's deep.

He's crying right now, and I'm pretending that I don't hear him. We're working on 'self-soothing'...I'm not very good at this. I think that I may be an 'enabler' when he's a bit older..I will have to work on that!

Having a baby.

2008-10-04T15:49:00.002-04:00

WE ARE HAVING A BABY!!
this is quite amazing and surreal to me. every day I have to remind myself that there is a tiny life inside of me. for 8 weeks now (give or take, science doesn't know) I have had this little life (now the size of a large blueberry) growing inside of me... it's just so amazing. I've had so many worries, doubts, questions, that I don't know what to do. But I have also has more moments of dependence on God than I've had in a long time, more out of desperation than choice, but moments none the less.

back to writing

2008-10-04T15:46:00.000-04:00

I'm finding it amazing, as I look at my own blog, that it has been nearly a year since I have written. I have been inspired my a friend, Megan Smith, to write more...

This has been a year of struggle, uncertainty, and disappointment for us, but we have had a month of rejoicing and a month of realizing that it's time to get back to loving people and loving this blessing of life, whether it's idealic or not.

so, welcome back...

THANKS-Giving

2007-11-20T14:13:00.000-05:00

Is it really Novemeber? Is it really Thanksgiving? crazy.

This year is a year of 'firsts' for us at the Towell home... although it's not our first Thanksgiving together, it's the first year that we will be having Thanksgiving dinner at our house. There will be ten of us, yes ten! Now, for some seasoned cooks that's a manageable number, for the turkey cooking virgin, it's quite a feat! Thankfully, I will have a forgiving audience...

My sister and my babies will be here tonight and I get to spend the day tomorrow with them...I've even got them aprons so we can all be in the kitchen together..so fun! Then Wednesday night Kay and Allen (Adam's parents) will drive in and following them is Adam's brother, Aaron and our nephew, Christian. Then later that night, my mom is flying in to OKC then driving to Clinton. I'm just so excited I can hardly stand it.

In that excitement, I've gotten a little 'crazy'. When I'm away from it all, I realize my obsession with wanting to impress people, even my family. In my mind I justify it by thinking that they're only here once a year or so, so I want it to be perfect for them...but really I want them to think "man, Adam and Julia are really doing well...they've got it all together.." Just last night, (as I was making beads throughout the house...which I do ONLY when we have guests) I imagined conversations going on behind my back or thoughts on my in-law's heads thinking "Adam really did well to marry Julia"...with them looking at my perfectly made beds, of course. Go ahead, say it, that's insane! Who do I think these people are that they would put so much value on my house or the bed-making skills I have. And really, what does that say about me? I place so much value on these meaningless things...

I would really like to focus on THANKS-giving...I'm going to work on that, and try not to be miserable focusing on the 'important things....you know, trying to make all of the place settings imaculate...

A day in the life...

2007-08-10T10:43:00.000-04:00

Man...how strange life has been!

So, some know, some don't... we're moving to Clinton, OK.
Adam has been asked to pastor a church there and we will be moving from Norman in two weeks!
We are SO excited about this move and Adam and I feel like God totally hand-picked Clinton for us.

The people at this church are amazing! Totally open to doing what God wants to do through the church, even if it's new. We have so many idea's, and so do they. It's so encouraging!! We're in no hurry, we feel that God will give us years to succeed in our idea's and also fail and move on to the next.

We've also bought a house there! A real true 'fixer-upper' that, at times, I'm a little terrified to live in. I'm, then, reminded that my mom washed dishes in the bathtub for a summer while the same situation was occurring in 'the log cabin' and that Michele hasn't had indoor plumbing for months in NZ...so, I know I can embrace this adventure. I just need to remember that it is just that, an adventure!

As 'tright' as it may sound, I really feel very undeserving of this 'gift' of Clinton. I am reminded of God's grace that he would let me (and Adam) be a part of this...despite my unfaithfulness to Him on so many occasions. My God truly is a forgiving God.

So, if you're ever out towards Clinton, give us a call...or just drop by, Mayberry, I mean Clinton, is just that kind of place.

ps. we haven't sold our home in Norman, so please send a prayer up if it crosses your mind.

Travel Bug

2007-06-22T13:18:00.000-04:00

So I'm looking at my 'travel' pictures...and I'm catching the 'travel bug'!

I'm craving the smell of foreign air.

I need the feel of dirt roads under my feet.

I long to drift away overhearing conversations in languages unknown to me.

We are going to new England next week, and I suppose I will pretend that I am in Italy or Vienna, or some place grand, to scratch my itch....