Autumn Photography

Fabulous new blog

2008-12-28T00:00:00.004-05:00

We're still waiting to close on our new house so we can move (which will hopefully be next week!) but I got tired of waiting... I can't move yet so my blog is moving! Please update your bookmarks to the new, redesigned blog at: http://www.autumn-photography.com/blog/! All old posts can be found at the new blog and I will no longer be updating this one.

Happy Holidays!

2008-12-26T12:18:00.002-05:00

I hope everyone had a very happy holiday! We are still waiting on a closing date for our house (which we should have been in already... a while ago)... our mortgage guy is pretty much incompetent and it was a real struggle to try to forget about it yesterday and just enjoy Christmas. Having a 5 year old to celebrate Christmas with does make it a bit easier to forget about the bad things and concentrate on the good though!

Gift Certificates make great holiday gifts!

2008-12-14T17:55:00.003-05:00

Still searching for a great last minute holiday gift? There is still time to order a gift certificate for that special loved one! Gift certificates can be used toward a photo session, wedding, prints or products and come in any amount you wish to give! Gift certificates for family sessions are always a huge hit, especially around the holidays when extended families are together! To order a gift certificate just click this link, enter the amount you wish to give and add a note to say who it's for and any custom text you wish to add to the certificate!

Happy Holidays!

What the Duck?

2008-11-30T22:25:00.003-05:00

I love this comic and read one today that really made me laugh out loud (though, almost every one of them does!). Sadly, it's pretty accurate.

As promised... Thanksgiving weekend special!

2008-11-27T12:36:00.002-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving!!! I hope that everyone is enjoying a wonderful holiday and that you are all spending the day with loved ones and stuffing your faces with delicious food. Just remember to take time to think about the things that you're thankful for! I am very thankful for my family, friends, wonderful business and clients, our new house (which isn't "ours" quite yet) and I am especially thankful this year for my health. It's been a rough year but I made it through and I am so thankful for my doctors, surgeons and to all of my family and friends who have been such a tremendous support! I love you guys!

THIS WEEKEND ONLY - use the promo code GIVETHANKS when checking out and receive $50 off your order of $200 or more! It's just my way of giving thanks to my wonderful clients!

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

It's coming....

2008-11-26T01:17:00.003-05:00

It's that time of year again... when we give thanks. As a thank you to you, I'm running a special this weekend only! I can't possibly spoil the surprise now... you'll have to come back on Thanksgiving to find out the details! So spend some time with your loved ones, enjoy a great meal, remember all of the things you're thankful for and stop by after you wake up from your post-turkey nap to get the details!

Christine & Brad :: Engagement

2008-11-15T17:33:00.011-05:00

Last night I had the pleasure of photographing Christine & Brad's engagement session in downtown New Haven. Of course, the meteorologists were totally off and it started raining as I was getting off the highway in New Haven. Thankfully, Christine & Brad came prepared and were totally up for some photos in the rain. It stopped very shortly after we got there and we started wondering around the city, getting harassed by homeland security, laughing and telling stories. Christine is a little camera shy but she did a great job and I don't even think you can tell that she was apprehensive! We finished off the night with a trip to Sherman's Alley and then off to Richter's for a drink. I can't wait for their wedding in Newport, RI this January!

Thanks again guys! See you soon!

Autumn Textures

2008-11-09T16:03:00.000-05:00

I love photographing textures when I'm bored, on vacation and even sometimes during a shoot! It was my first official photography assignment in elementary school and it has stuck with me ever since. Texture overlays are becoming increasingly popular and many photographers simply don't have the time or patience to shoot their own so I'm making it a little easier! I have an extensive collection of my own textures and I am now offering a small sampling of them for sale. Textures are packaged into Volumes - 10 per Volume. You can purchase one Volume for $50 or get a discount on the complete set of 4 Volumes at $175. There is not a single repeat in any of the Volumes... each one is different. My textures mainly consist of natural elements - stone, wood, snow, grass, etc. and are extremely versatile for using on a wide range of photos and backgrounds. If you don't know how to use textures, no worries - I've got that covered too! A PDF with basic instructions is included. Once your order is placed you will receive an e-mail within 48 hours with a link to download your purchase. Downloads will be available for 14 days from the date of purchase.

Click here to purchase!Click here to purchase!

Last day!

2008-11-07T13:44:00.000-05:00

Just a reminder, today is the last day to get 20% off your order of $100 or more! Just use the promo code HOLIDAY08 when checking out!

Katie & Andrew

2008-11-02T22:37:00.006-05:00

Tara and I had such a fabulous time photographing Katie & Andrew's wedding in Litchfield last month! Katie is so bubbly and sweet and Andrew is a teddy bear... who is obsessed with the inner workings of my camera! =) These two are so cute together and certainly know how to make each other laugh... one of the most important things if you ask me! Katie has a great eye for detail and the thought that she put into every little thing just amazed me. From the alternating centerpieces to the pumpkin place card holders to her fabulous dress and hot shoes, no detail was overlooked. We had so much fun celebrating with Katie & Andrew and their family and friends and are honored to have been their photographers! Congratulations again you two and thank you so much!!!

Click here for the slideshow!

Baby Payton

2008-11-02T13:02:00.004-05:00

Thursday I had the extreme pleasure of meeting my friend Tina's daughter Payton for the first time and of course, taking some photos of Tina, Dennis and Payton! I can't wait to see that precious little girl again and take more photos! Congratulations again guys!

OMG It's Hannah!!!

2008-11-02T11:11:00.003-05:00

Much to my dismay, my 5 year old is pretty much obsessed with Hannah Montana and of course, had to be her for Halloween! I guess she could do much worse for an idol... Just wanted to share a couple snaps of my little pop star! I hope everyone had a safe and happy Halloween!

Holiday special

2008-10-29T21:48:00.001-04:00

The holidays are coming quickly! Now through November 7th use the promo code HOLIDAY08 during checkout to get 25% off your print order of $100 or more!

Linnea & Drew :: Engaged

2008-10-23T02:18:00.015-04:00

A few favorites from Linnea & Drew's engagement session in Simsbury, CT:

Such a beautiful scene!

Doesn't Linnea have the most gorgeous eyes?

OneLight Workshop

2008-10-21T22:53:00.020-04:00

I just got home earlier today from OneLight Workshop held in West Orange, NJ, which is run by the inspirational Zack Arias and it was AWESOME! I cannot say enough great things about Zack! Bryce York opened his home to our crazy group and hosted Zack and the workshop - thanks again Bryce!!! I am so pumped to put what I learned to good use! I met some great photographers and had a blast. We took lots of photos of our models April and Dan and then broke into groups and took photos of each other and played around with different lighting techniques in the dark and we basically goofed off and just tried a bunch of different things. Here are some of my favorite images that I took Monday (which were never even opened in Photoshop):

The adorable April with her Halloween nail polish:
April's boyfriend Dan:
"Put the women in the foliage!" I love this shot of April - you would not believe how different this location looks when you see the whole space... it's all a matter of composition and lighting!
This series is my favorite of the day - shot during "civil twilight", which is after the sun sets, with "big momma softbox" - a 50 inch Westcott softbox. April & Dan are so cute together:
And here are some shots from our little group and afterward:

Here's Mark Gardner:
And Ryan Estes:
And Neville (not sure if I spelled his name right and don't know his last name):
Ryan
...Did I mention we were goofing off?
MarkThanks so much again to Zack, Bryce and their wonderful wives! Friday I'm off to Photo Plus Expo in NYC and then dinner afterward with a group of my photographer buddies at the famous Carmine's... mmmmmmmmm......

The countdown begins...

2008-10-16T20:35:00.003-04:00

I am ELATED to announce that we made an offer on a house today and it was accepted!!! Now we just have the nail biting anxiety waiting to secure our mortgage and close! With any luck we will be closing in early December on our first house which will be in New Windsor, NY which is in Orange County *just* over the Hudson River off of I-84 (easy access to CT!). Before anyone asks, YES, I am still accepting weddings in Connecticut - we still have lots of family and friends here and I love CT! So, I'm just going to gush a little bit... the most exciting thing about this house - it is BRAND SPANKIN' NEW - built this year and never been lived in! It's a split level 3 bed, 2.5 bath with a 2 car garage, living room, family room and dining room and it has a gorgeous custom kitchen with granite counter tops and hardwood floors throughout the upper level. We are beyond thrilled (and still in a little bit of shock)! It's minutes away from a super cool outdoor sculpture park which we checked out today - I think that may be my new go-to place for engagement and family sessions because it is beautiful and has a lot of diversity as far as areas to shoot. So.... Connecticut clients - no worries, I'm defintiely still going to be around and if you know anyone in the Hudson Valley in New York, please spread the word! =) I'll be posting pictures soon so stay tuned!

Newport

2008-10-13T09:59:00.015-04:00

Last week Sean and I went to Newport, RI for a 3 day getaway - it was my first visit to Newport and I have a wedding scheduled there in January so I was so excited to go check it out! My first impression - no where near as small and remote as I had pictured. I envisioned a small island - a sleepy little fishing town with maybe one small row of shops and restaurants, a few mansions, a few B&B's and hotels and maybe 30-40 beach houses. It was much bigger and more congested than I had pictured in my head but really cool nonetheless. We arrived on Tuesday afternoon and checked in at our bed and breakfast - The Victorian Ladies Inn - and then immediately walked down to the famous Cliff Walk. It was a gorgeous day - great weather and crisp blue skies and textures galore. I take texture photos pretty much everywhere I go and I use them for overlays on my photos sometimes... I have quite a collection going and I've even got Sean into finding cool textures now! As we walked along the Cliff Walk we came to "Forty Steps" and went down to explore. As we reached the bottom of the steps I heard a waterfall so I started looking for it... it was in a little cave in the side of the cliff! Sean and I went to check it out and take some photos and we ended up photographing each other too because it was such a cool spot.

And where there is rock......there is a rock climber

I set my camera on a rock, propped up by my sweater and hit the timer for this one...

not so easy to run across the rocks and get in the shot before that timer goes off! I brought my tripod with me to Newport but all I brought on the Cliff Walk was my camera and one lens since it's such a long walk and silly me - I only brought my biggest camera bag! We finished up the Cliff Walk and headed back for a delicious dinner at the Red Parrot. I was starting to come down with a cold and wasn't feeling very well by then but the food was awesome. Wednesday I woke up to a raging cold and I felt horrible... Sean ran out and got me loads of medicine and tissues and I toughed it out and we walked around by the harbor a little bit, checked out the location where my January wedding is going to be and then went to a winery for a tour and Sean did a tasting. Afterward I was completely spent and feeling much worse so I tried taking a nap before going out to dinner but it was no use. I couldn't fall asleep and I kept feeling worse so we had leftovers from the night before. Thursday morning Sean woke me up because we had to check out of the B&B and we were going to go to lunch but I wanted nothing more than to go home and crawl into bed so we left. I slept the entire way home (I never sleep in the car) and then went to bed and slept most of the day when we got home. I really wish that I had felt up to exploring a little (lot) more but it was still great. Still not feeling well but I had a fantastic wedding on Saturday and an engagement session yesterday that I'll be posting some pics from soon! I can't wait to get back to Newport in January for Christine & Brad's wedding - hopefully I'll be able to explore a little more then!

Digital Files

2008-10-04T17:02:00.003-04:00

Single digital files are now available for purchase from weddings and portrait sessions! As a wedding client, your files are included with your package and delivered with your final album. However, many couples (or their friends and family) wish to get a file or two prior to this. Portrait session clients now have this option as well! Digital files are unmarked and printable to approximately 8x10. Just choose the image(s) you would like to purchase from your gallery, choose the "digital file" option from the "size" drop down menu under the "prints" tab and choose "pickup" as your shipping option (so you aren't charged for shipping!). Your file will be e-mailed to you within 48 hours.

Anxious...

2008-10-03T18:54:00.002-04:00

I can't wait for the upcoming events - my husband comes home from Florida Sunday night, Monday we're going house hunting again (fingers crossed that we find one!), Tuesday through Thursday we'll be in Newport, RI (my first visit there), Saturday is Katie & Andrew's wedding and Sunday is Linnea & Drew's E-session! I am going to be a very, very busy woman for the next couple of weeks but I can't wait!!!

I've been tagged!

2008-09-29T10:41:00.002-04:00

My friend Pamela tagged me with a book meme. Here are the rules:

* Grab the nearest book.
* Open the book to page 56.
* Find the fifth sentence.
* Post the text of the next two to five sentences in your blog along with these instructions.
* Don’t dig for your favorite book, the cool book, or the intellectual one: pick the CLOSEST.
* Tag five other people to do the same

I grabbed Primal Branding by Patrick Hanlon

"How to pour a Guinness. Applauding the new Saturn car buyer. How Martha Stewart bakes a cookie. These are all ritualistic behaviors that are incorporated into the primal branding construct. The real power is understanding how rituals can be tweaked and made more interesting, more evolved, or otherwise better suited to their purposes."

Now... let's see.... hmmmm.... I am gonna tag.....

House hunting

2008-09-28T01:43:00.001-04:00

We went house hunting earlier this week and found a house we loved - and the price was right! Unfortunately, I went back today with my brother in law and father in law and they informed me that it was a money pit. Ugh. The search continues.... I'm gonna be busy!

Jenn & Kevin :: amazing wedding!

2008-09-19T22:41:00.012-04:00

Last Saturday Tara and I had the extreme pleasure of photographing Jenn & Kevin's wedding in White Plains, NY. I first met Jenn about a year and a half ago - she was a bridesmaid at Nicole & Mike's ridiculously fun Beardsley Zoo wedding! Not too long after Nicole & Mike's wedding Jenn contacted me to photograph her wedding and I was thrilled - Jenn was so adorable and fun and she definitely stuck out in my mind from Nicole & Mike's wedding. I had a blast shooting Jenn & Kevin's engagement session back in April... these two have such a great connection - I was really anxious to shoot their wedding.

I just love when couples plan oodles of time for photos and relaxing into their day! The girls ran a little late with make-up but since Jenn & Kevin had planned so much extra time we really didn't even notice! Jenn & Kev have the cutest house in White Plains with these wonderful little sayings everywhere - "Live, Love, Laugh" was the most prevalent - definitely words to live by and it is very evident that they do!

I have never seen such a huge wedding party before and this group was awesome! I was nervous about there being so many because many times it's extremely difficult to get everyone to be where they are supposed to be and to get "into" the photos. Usually the bridal party is by far the least thrilled with photos but this group was on the ball and totally willing to support Jenn & Kevin by helping them get great photos to remember their day. Of course, having Matt there to help Tara & I out was a huge bonus! (Thanks again, Matt!)

During the hustle and bustle of the day, I totally missed the fact that there was a guy missing from the bridal party... understandable with such a large group I guess... I later learned that the Best Man, Kevin's brother, is serving in Iraq right now and was not able to come. The "acting best man" read an extremely touching e-mail from him that was what he would have said for his toast. I honestly don't know how there was a dry eye in the house because I know I was crying and had to hold back from sobbing! Listening to this toast and both Jenn & Kevin's fathers' toasts, it was impossible not to see what an amazing couple they are and what amazing individuals they are.

So, enough gushing and rambling...

Ceremony: St. Bernard's Church
Formal Photos: Westchester Hills Country Club
Reception: CV Rich Mansion
(All in White Plains, NY)

Click here for the crazy long slideshow!

Here are just a few of my favorites from the day, but be sure to check out the slideshow too:

Isn't she just GORGEOUS!?!?!

Now is this guy head over heels in love or what?! I love when a guy gives a great reaction to seeing his beautiful bride!

I didn't dare ask 2 dozen people to jump at the same time... but Kevin did! =)

Tara caught this awesome close up of them:

First Dance... can't you just FEEL the love? Jenn & Kevin, I hope that the rest of your lives is as happy as this moment!

Thank you SO much Jenn & Kevin for allowing us to be a part of your day! You guys are amazing and we wish you the absolute best! I hope you have a fabulous time in Jamaica!

Nicole & Mike: It was so fantastic seeing you guys again! I wish we'd had more time to hang out! You two are awesome and I can't thank you enough for everything! We've gotta get together soon!

Tara: You rocked it, as always! Thank you!!!

Matt: I think I found myself a very trusty assistant and back-up second photographer! Thank you so much for all of your help and hard work!

Meghan & Brad :: wedding

2008-09-16T17:34:00.006-04:00

Tropical Storm Hanna blew through for Meghan & Brad's wedding at Keeler Taverns Museum in Ridgefield... Hanna forced them to change some plans (like the outdoor garden ceremony) and flooded areas of the reception, but they certainly didn't let that get them down! At least we managed to squeeze in a couple of minutes outside before the rain came pouring down. Meghan had every detail planned out to perfection - she is a designer after all! Thanks again to Tara for helping me out!

Meghan & Brad: Thanks again for letting Tara and I be part of your day! We hope you had a wonderful honeymoon at Disney! Congratulations again!

Click here for the slideshow!

visitor

2008-09-15T00:39:00.003-04:00

We had a visitor in our garden the other day... a common one, but not one of the usual suspects (rabbit, deer, chipmunk, etc.). It was a freaky looking but beautiful spider. I have never seen a spider like this so that kind of scared me (thinking it may be dangerous) but after looking it up I found that it's a common garden spider and it's harmless. I'm just glad I didn't see this in the house! Check out the 2 insects this beauty wrapped up in all of like .000002 seconds! (one on the left of the frame, one under the spider)

Great weddings!

2008-09-14T17:21:00.002-04:00

Last Saturday, September 6th, was Meghan & Brad's wedding at Keeler Taverns Museum in Ridgefield, CT and yesterday, September 13th, was Jenn & Kevin's wedding at St. Bernard's Church and the CV Rich Mansion in White Plains, NY - what great weddings! Meghan and Brad's wedding was a bit soggy due to TS Hanna coming through, but Jenn & Kevin certainly lucked out with great weather for theirs, despite forecasts of rain and storms! Tara and I had so much fun at both weddings and I'll be posting photos in the next day or so, so check back soon! A HUGE thank you to Tara for her help at both weddings and to Matt who helped us out at Jenn & Kevin's!

...now I need a nap! =)

First Day of Kindergarten!

2008-08-28T23:06:00.010-04:00

Wow, what a day!!! Jaedyn was super excited this morning and woke up quite early chanting "First day of kindergarten! First day of kindergarten!" and then proceeded to ask for the next hour and a half "Is it time yet? Is the bus here yet?" every couple of minutes! Sean and I took her across the street to catch the bus and she hugged my leg and said "Mommy, I'm gonna miss you!". I looked at Sean like 'she's gonna get me started crying now!' and it started... I managed to choke back the tears up until the bus came down the hill. It stopped, the doors opened and she looked for a second, unsure of what to do. An older girl on the bus poked her head around the corner of the front seat and said "Are you a kindergartener?" to which Jaedyn replied "oh YEAH!!!" and ran onto the bus without looking back. Then the bus driver sat there with the doors open, just waiting... then he asked me "aren't you going to take any pictures?". Of course, I had already taken several before the bus arrived and this was one of the few moments of my life that I did not want to live through a viewfinder. At this point all I was thinking was "get the hell out of here before I change my mind!!!" and just told him that I already had plenty. He still waited... "are you sure???" "yeah I'm sure! Just go!" - though I'm not really sure if I said 'just go', but I was certainly thinking it! I sobbed for another minute or two and then we got in the car and drove up to the school to watch her get off the bus and make sure she got to her teacher. The place was a madhouse! We did get to see her get off the bus and they are very organized there, which eased our minds.

The bus arrived about 20 minutes late coming home... first days are like that I guess. We waited for the bus to drop her off at our driveway (nice! I used to have to walk pretty far) and she greeted us with big smiles, hugs & kisses and tons of excitement. As she told my Mom, she "had a fabulous day!". She loved it and can't wait to go back tomorrow. Hopefully I'll handle it a bit better tomorrow! ;)

Here is a collection of photos - some from my camera, some from the point and shoot (I didn't want to create a spectacle and embarrass my little girl with my monster camera & lenses!).

No, she wasn't excited!

"Is it time for the bus yet?"

Waiting at the bus stop

Getting off the bus at schoolComing home!

Running to give me hugs & kisses - my favorite part of the day!
Where does the time go?!?!

New Beginnings

2008-08-27T23:05:00.002-04:00

Tomorrow is the big day... my little girl is starting Kindergarten. I still cannot believe it. I have already had tears in my eyes a couple of times today and it isn't even here yet! I can't imagine what it's going to be like tomorrow morning when I watch my little girl get on that big yellow school bus (and then I get in my car and follow the bus the whole way to school!). I am so proud of her - she's so ready for school. She's going to do great - and I don't think she's even a little bit scared to go. I guess that makes it easier on me, but I'll tell you a secret - I am scared! I'm scared of her riding the bus, I'm scared that I'm going to get constant phone calls from her teacher that she's too talkative, too sassy, too big for her britches. After all, she's an only child and acts much older than 5... just ask anyone that knows her - she's always the life of the party and most adults love talking to her. She's just like one of the gang most of the time. I'm scared that she's going to come home with really bad habits and vocabulary that she'll learn from her classmates... I'm scared that I'm going to blink my eyes and she'll be graduating high school.

Tonight I teared up when she picked out her "first day" outfit, when we set her new Hannah Montana alarm clock that she had to have because she was afraid she'd oversleep for school, when I made her lunch, when we read "Countdown to Kindergarten" for the 150th time, when her teacher called me to ask about her allergy and whether she could have a cupcake, when another Mom called to ask me about riding the bus home with the kids Tuesday. I have known it was coming and even though I was freaked out, I thought I was ready. I thought I'd be fine except maybe when she actually got on the bus. All of a sudden today it really sunk in and I got a wave of fear, sadness and excitement (and maybe a little panic!). It just felt like it was still so far away and then suddenly I'm told that it's TOMORROW?!?! AAAAAAAAHHH!!!! It just can't be.... I mean, wasn't she just taking her first steps? I'm so excited for her though - she is over the moon and cannot wait to go. As she was going to bed she was telling me how excited she was and asked me if I was excited too. I answered "Yeah, I'm excited, but I'm also a little bit sad because it just means that you're growing up!" Her reply made me laugh so hard I could barely breathe... "Don't worry Mom. I'll get a kid and I'll get you one too. (I'm dying with laughter at this point and she's patting me on the back) It's okay, I'll name her Jaedyn for you since I know you like that name". Oh boy... I don't know where she gets these things. I'd like to know where these "kids" she's talking about are going to come from...

You'd better believe I'll be posting pics of my little girl tomorrow (after the fountain of tears stops flowing)!

Gone camping!

2008-08-25T10:47:00.003-04:00

We're heading up to Lake Waramaug for a quick camping trip before Jaedyn starts school! We'll be gone through Tuesday evening.

Jesse & Kelly

2008-08-19T15:55:00.035-04:00

As mentioned in my last post, Jesse & Kelly's 8/8/08 wedding was awesome... hence this mammoth post! These two are so in love and so much fun! Tara and I had such a fantastic time and I think that we were both in awe most of the day! Jesse & Kelly are really into swing dancing and it was very evident in their wedding. Every little detail was planned to a T and it just turned out so perfectly. It was my first time at Joe Black's - it was breathtaking and totally complimented the theme. Here are some of my favorites:

(Click for the slideshow)

Personal time

2008-08-16T23:20:00.003-04:00

It's been a busy few weeks around the Thomes household! My hubby is FINALLY home! He was in Florida for 3 1/2 weeks opening a new restaurant and we missed him like crazy! He was super busy, working 15+ hour days, 6 days a week, so we didn't even hear from him much. While he was away I managed to teach Jaedyn to ride her bike without training wheels and I helped my father in law and brother in law put in a new deck. I was kind of going crazy trying to keep up with Jaedyn by myself for almost 4 weeks... no school, no camp, no playdates, no Daddy... whew! I have always had a lot of respect for single parents, but MAN, it's exhausting! We are so glad to have him home!

Last Friday (8/8/08) was Jesse & Kelly's wedding and wow - what a fantastic wedding! They are so in love and so much fun! We hit some really bad weather and some minor bumps along the way, but the day was perfect overall. They are big into swing dancing and it showed in their wedding! They had a swing dancing performance group and wow can that crowd dance! I said it several times that day, but I'll say it again - if I were a guest at that wedding there is NO WAY I would be out on that dance floor - not only would I thoroughly embarrass myself, I'd probably get hurt too! What a great time, an awesome couple and an amazingly gorgeous venue. I'll be posting photos in the next couple days!

Tuesday Jaedyn and I went to NYC to meet up with my friend Ginger and her hubby and son who are all visiting from Michigan and Shawna and Jimmy who live in Long Island. Ginger, Shawna and I worked together back in 1999-2000 in Michigan and have remained friends since. Both of them were bridesmaids in my wedding and last summer I photographed Shawna & Jimmy's wedding and Ginger was a bridesmaid. It was really great seeing them - and their pregnant bellies! They are due within a month of each other! We met up at the Empire State Building and made it up to the top for the most amazing view... the rain cleared up and we made it up there shortly before sunset. WOW. Again, I'll be posting photos soon!

Wednesday night I picked Sean up at the airport and we've been spending lots of time together since. We've got a lot of time to make up for! Last night was date night - we went to Vino on the Brickwalk in Fairfield... such good food and HUGE portions! Very highly recommended! I think it may just be our new favorite restaurant!

Jaedyn starts kindergarten in less than 2 weeks... we're still in shock! She had her booster shots Thursday and it's becoming more and more real now. My mother in law said something today about next week I'll be shopping for snacks for Jaedyn's lunch and I almost cried. I don't know how the time goes so quickly.

She's got it!

2008-08-03T22:59:00.004-04:00

I had to post because I'm so proud of Jaedyn and I can't wipe the smile off my face! My little girl got it - she's riding her bike without training wheels now. WOW. She just turned 5, is starting kindergarten in a few weeks and now this?! I guess I'm going to have to come to grips with the fact that my little girl is growing up! She's doing AWESOME and was so hilarious announcing to the world that she can ride her bike with 2 wheels all by herself.

Catch up!

2008-07-30T12:36:00.011-04:00

It's been a while since I've updated my blog! I've been busy being a Mom and getting some R&R! I did Jesse & Kelly's engagement session a few weeks ago at the Renaissance Faire in Ansonia (my first Ren. Fair) and last week I did my very first senior session - I'm psyched! I had such a blast shooting Katie's senior session - I can't wait to do more!

Here are a few from Kelly & Jesse's session:

Their wedding is coming up in less than two weeks so expect to see these faces again soon!

A few favorites from Katie's senior session:

Is she freakin' gorgeous or what?!

We went on a camping trip to Vermont a couple weeks ago with our friends (who have kids Jaedyn's age) and we all had a great time. The kids had a blast swimming, running around, kayaking and canoing, decorating the lean to with sidewalk chalk and of course - making s'mores! We brought our kayak up with us and rented a second one while our friends rented a canoe for them to fish from... unfortunately, they didn't catch anything! We got rained out a little, but we had a camp site with a big lean to which was awesome and kept our tents and stuff dry. Our friends also brought a big gazebo type thing which we put over the picnic table. We didn't do much of anything - just relaxed and hung out - which was fantastic.

L-R: (adults) Anna, Nate, Sean and I and then Thomas, Jaedyn & Becca in front

Making mud pies on the kayak

This is what happens when you leave Dads in charge!
Jaedyn & Becca in front of their masterpiece

I'm really glad that we got to spend the weekend together - without the distractions of work, errands and chores, because as soon as we got home Sean left for Florida for a few weeks. =( He's opening a new restaurant in Bonita Springs (not his restaurant, the company he works for!) and he's training the kitchen staff. So... I get to be Mommy AND Daddy for a few weeks. I've spent the last couple of days trying to teach Jaedyn how to ride her bike without training wheels... that is exhausting!!! She's doing great but is still working on balance and courage! She still won't let me let go of her - if I try she takes her hands off of the handle bars to try to grab my hands!

Happy 5th Birthday, Jaedyn!!!

2008-07-13T00:43:00.005-04:00

Wow... 5 years ALREADY?!?! It seems like just yesterday I was holding my newborn daughter and today she is 5 years old! I just can't believe it... they grow up so fast! Jaedyn has grown to be such a smart, funny, creative, caring, generous, spunky, stubborn, thoughtful, gorgeous and just all around fantastic little girl and I cannot tell you how proud I am to be her Mom. She is just the most awesome kid and so much fun to be around. For those of you who don't have kids yet - everything they say is true - there are things you just cannot truly understand unless you are a parent. Love for instance... there is nothing like the love for and from a child and you will look at your spouse in a whole new light as well. Being a parent is a truly amazing gift and I am so thankful to have such a wonderful daughter!

Happy 5th Birthday, Jae Jae!!! We love you so much and we are so proud of you!!!

Here's a newborn pic of my sweet little girl:
(I think she was about 3 weeks old there)

Her birthday party is later today so I'll post some pics later... right now I need to finish making her cake!

Here are some snapshots of her birthday dinner at home:

*goof ball*
*opening presents from family*

And her birthday party with all of her friends:

*crash*
*group hug*
Blowing out her candles on the cake that mysteriously turned from purple to blue on the way to the party! The strangest part was that the cupcakes - which had exactly the same icing - didn't change color! I was trying not to be the photographer and just enjoy my daughter's birthday party, so I forgot to take a photo of the actual cake! It was a butterfly - purple wings, blue body and bright green swirls on the wings.

Kayaking

2008-07-09T15:23:00.010-04:00

Sean, Jaedyn and I went kayaking on the Saugatuck River Monday - it was my first time kayaking! I wasn't very optimistic as to how much I was going to be able to handle, but I went about 5 times further than I anticipated! Unfortunately, since I had underestimated myself, I figured I wouldn't need sunscreen since I could use some color (anything other than THE color white!) and my legs got FRIED! We borrowed my sister in law's kayak and had planned that Sean and Jaedyn would go in ours like they normally do - Jaedyn fits very nicely in the storage area behind Sean and my sister in law's kayak is much smaller than ours with no storage compartment. Well..... our plans didn't work out so well because Melissa's kayak was extremely uncomfortable for me. The seat on hers hit right on my spine where my scar from my surgeries is and it's still very sensitive. I tried ours and it was MUCH better. So, I ended up on my maiden voyage with the larger kayak and the extra weight of Jaedyn, the cooler and of course, Jaedyn's little oar (that she loved using) dragging in the water! It was exhausting and I'm still paying for it, but it was SO much fun! Sean took a few photos of Jaedyn and I and then when we got back to the boat ramp Jaedyn wanted to try using the big paddles... we put her in Melissa's kayak and she took off! Sean went after her in ours and I stayed on the shore taking some pics of my natural born kayaker! I really want to get an underwater housing for our point and shoot camera - it would give us some peace of mind and we'd probably take more photos out on the water!

2nd shooting (for a change!)

2008-07-02T17:17:00.012-04:00

Saturday I had the pleasure of second shooting for fellow photographer Sarah McCoy
for Krista & Aaron's wedding at Lighthouse Point Park in New Haven. Despite the nasty concussion I gave myself shortly before the ceremony (recent brain surgery + concussion = BAD idea!), I still managed to pull of some killer shots! I just had to share some of my absolute favorites! By the time we finished up, Sarah was soaking wet from the knee down and I had sand EVERYWHERE - even in my hair - YUCK! Anything for a great shot! =)

On a side note, these images are straight out of the camera - absolutely no post processing at all!

Thanks again Sarah for the invitation to shoot with you! It was a nice change of pace being the 2nd!

Kathy & Larry

2008-07-02T16:05:00.005-04:00

Larry & Kathy were married June 22nd at Sacred Heart Church in Greenwich, with the reception following at The Inn at Longshore in Westport... again, we just lucked out with the weather! The weekend called for thunderstorms, Sunday being the worst of it. Other than a quick shower and some very intimidating thunder immediately after the ceremony in Greenwich, the weather couldn't have been better! This was yet another very special wedding for me - Larry and my husband are childhood friends and their parents are very close... prior to their wedding I had only met Kathy very briefly, but she is one of the most inspiring people I've ever met. When Larry and Kathy booked me for their wedding Kathy was so bubbly and spunky and we got along fabulously... only weeks later I learned that she had gotten the shocking diagnosis: breast cancer. Rather than freak out (like most everyone else), Kathy was determined to not only beat it, but with grace and dignity. They kept their original wedding date in spite of surgery and chemotherapy and she was fortunate enough to finish up her chemo soon enough for her eyebrows and eyelashes to come back in before the wedding and they were able to hold off on the radiation until afterward. I cannot tell you how inspiring this woman is and I am so thankful to have been able to capture their wedding day and celebrate with them! Thanks to Heather for second shooting for me and allowing me to relax and even dance with my hubby!

Larry & Kathy - congratulations again! I hope that you had a great time in Maine and I can't wait to get together with you again for your "after" session!

CLICK HERE for the slideshow!

Lisa & Pete - wedding!

2008-07-01T19:03:00.000-04:00

Lisa & Pete totally lucked out on the weather for their wedding - the rain held out *just* long enough for their outdoor ceremony and photos! Tara and I had so much fun and Lisa has this energy about her that is completely infectious... everyone had a fantastic time! The wedding was held at The Barns at Wesleyan Hills in Middletown and let me just tell you that The Barns is one of my new favorite locations! Congratulations again, Lisa & Pete! You guys ROCK! Can't wait to hang out again!

CLICK HERE for the (long) slideshow!

One of the adorable ring bearers who just did not want to do his job! I love this one!
How gorgeous are these two?!

Back up and running!

2008-07-01T14:45:00.002-04:00

Yea! I finally have my internet back! Trying to catch up on a few things first, but photos will be posted SOON! =) If you e-mailed me within the last 4-5 days, please give me a day or two to get back to you - my in-box filled up very quickly while my internet was down! Thanks!!!

still nothing....

2008-06-30T21:11:00.000-04:00

Optimum still has not restored our services. Apparently a supervisor was supposed to come out today to fix it, but after not hearing from anyone by 8 PM tonight (the cut off time we were told), I called to find out what was going on. I was given the most ridiculous excuse - they tried calling several times and couldn't get anyone - on our LAND LINE which we reported being out of service and gave 2 cell numbers to contact us at!!! UGH!!! So, no internet, cable or phone tonight either. They are supposed to be here tomorrow afternoon... We'll see if the idiots try calling the out of service number again! What gets me the most is that when you call the number you get a message that it isn't working - yet I'm told that a supervisor tried the number several times and then canceled our appointment. If the phone is on your service, you are called to come repair it since it's out, you try calling and get a message that it's not working, WHY wouldn't you either look up the alternate (cell) numbers provided or just show up to fix it?! I think they're just feeding us excuses at this point and I've just about had it with them!

Internet down!

2008-06-30T13:17:00.000-04:00

My internet, phone and cable have been out since Friday and I think I might go crazy soon!!! Thank goodness for cell phones though! Optimum was supposed to fix it all Saturday but couldn't... Hopefully I'll be back up and running by the end of the day. I can't wait to post Lisa and Pete's wedding which I was in the middle of posting when my internet went down! Hopefully it will be resolved today!

Awesome weddings!

2008-06-24T02:36:00.002-04:00

What an awesome and fun filled weekend! Friday was Lisa & Pete's wedding at The Barns at Wesleyan Hills in Middletown and Sunday was Kathy & Larry's wedding at Sacred Heart Church in Greenwich, followed by their reception at The Inn at Longshore in Westport! Both couples totally lucked out with the weather and I'm so glad they did! They've both had some tough times lately and I wanted nothing more than for them to have perfect wedding days - weather included! The forecast called for thunderstorms both days, with Saturday being clear... while it did rain for both weddings, the timing really couldn't have worked out better! We still managed to get outdoors both days and had a kick ass time!

Now the real work begins... I have several thousand photos to go through from the weekend but I'm so excited to see them all! A huge shout out to my second shooters this weekend - Tara Sharma was my right hand at Lisa & Pete's wedding and Heather Ellicott (who shares mine and Kathy's love for Keen footwear!) was my trusty assistant at Kathy & Larry's! You girls rocked it - thank you so much!

Stay tuned... photos to come soon!

Meghan & Brad

2008-06-17T05:02:00.007-04:00

Sunday (Father's Day) I had the pleasure of meeting up with Meghan & Brad again for their engagement session! We watched the weather all morning and afternoon, hoping for those clearing skies we were promised... well, the skies didn't exactly clear and it didn't warm up like it was supposed to, but at least the rain stopped! We headed to Sherwood Island... it was terribly windy at the beach but not too bad up top. I was pretty chilled but these two were champs!

CLICK HERE for the slideshow!

A few of my favorites:

(no, the water and skies were NOT this blue!)
A moody photo for the dreary day

Jeanette & Don

2008-06-17T01:37:00.005-04:00

Saturday, June 7th was a HOT day - and for me to say that, you know it was roasting! That didn't stop Jeanette and Don from living it up on their wedding day though! They had a small (but larger than originally planned!) wedding with the ceremony at Orange Congregational Church followed by an outdoor reception at Jeanette's sister's home, also in Orange. Yes, outdoors in well over 90 degree heat, wedding gown, tuxedos.... let's just say that the formal wear didn't last long and many people were taking full advantage of the pool! It was a great day (minus the sunburn I got!) and these two sure know how to laugh! Congratulations again Jeanette & Don and thank you so much again for letting me share in your day!

CLICK HERE for the slideshow!

Graduation!

2008-06-15T02:51:00.003-04:00

Jaedyn graduated Pre-K last week and I finally managed to download the photos! I am still in complete shock and denial that she is getting ready to start Kindergarten! She's coming up on her 5th birthday next month and is suddenly SO grown up! This proud Mom just had to share a photo of my little cutie in her cap and gown with her little diploma! Please excuse the yucky photo quality - I hate gym lighting and didn't edit these at all!

Hot Mamas!

2008-06-14T00:43:00.002-04:00

Two of my friends just announced that they are both pregnant and due within weeks of each other (and they are good friends too)! I can't believe how many pregnant women I know right now! While I have no plans of joining their little pregnancy club, I am glowing with happiness and excitement for my friends! Congratulations to Ginger (one of my very best friends) and Shawna - the newest Moms to be - and to Tina, Jen & Kristine too! I can't wait to meet your little ones!

On "E"

2008-06-13T22:51:00.002-04:00

Yes, "E" stands for empty... and I'm running on fumes! I've been super busy with work and my little girl graduated Pre-K last week so she's been home with me all week, going stir crazy! Tonight we had a birthday party for one of her friends and all the Moms seem to be going through the same thing - our kids are driving us all bonkers since they aren't in school! Kids - especially 4 and 5 year olds - thrive on routine and activity... and with the first week of summer break they are going nuts and taking us along for the ride! It was great to get out and let Jaedyn burn off some energy playing with all of her friends, but then she stayed up until after 10 tonight because she was wired from the party! Between the ever growing to-do list for work (editing, albums, print fulfillment, phone calls, e-mails, slideshows, errands, etc.), the ever growing to-do list for home, two cars in and out of the shop for the last week and a half for maintenance and repairs (yesterday was both at the same time!), and a little girl demanding my attention all day and night, I'm definitely running on empty! I need to recharge and refuel before my engagement session this weekend and the two weddings I have next weekend! I'm planning a play date for my daughter (and the bonus of some conversation with someone over the age of 5!) next week and maybe a beach day with my daughter and husband, but other than that I'm honestly at a loss. I think I'm so tired that I can't remember how to relax right now! What's your favorite way to relax and recharge (bonus if it's manageable with a 4-5 year old!)? I need some inspiration!

Rick & Chrissy

2008-06-11T21:22:00.002-04:00

As I mentioned previously, while I was on vacation in FL visiting my family, I did an engagement session for my "little" cousin Rick and his little fiance Chrissy! They are FINALLY getting married on their 10th anniversary together this January! Of course, I say finally because they've been together and engaged for so long, but really, they are 26 years old so I'd say it's good timing. We had to get some photos with Rick's new Harley first (with Jaedyn the director in tow!) but we were cut short by a rain storm so we had to pause and continue later... but only after finding a Subway so we could "eat fresh"! I've never had so much trouble finding a Subway before in my life - we only had trouble because that was the ONLY place they wanted to go! =) Anyway, a little back story - Rick and I are 2 years apart and my Dad used to babysit him when we were little, so he's very much like the brother I never had. Chrissy I have known since she was in Kindergarten and we even rode the same bus to school as kids. She has twin brothers my age so I knew her when she was knee high to a grasshopper (though, she still is)! Yes, we all tease her about her height - but only because after all these years we can still get a rise out of her about it! Of course, with the huge height difference between her and Rick and the fact that Rick used to own a truck that you basically needed a ladder to get in and out of, it just opens so many doors to crack on her. Okay, I know Chrissy, enough. You know we all love you or we wouldn't even bother cracking on you! =) So, after finding a Subway so these two could "eat fresh", we headed to the little "downtown" area on Main Street in my hometown and walked around trying to get some of that weight off Rick that he put on after quitting smoking! =) We had a gorgeous sunset, though by that time we were so far from the car that we didn't have time to get to the beach to see it. I had a fantastic time shooting their engagement photos and it was the first time in about 8 years since they've had professional photos taken of them (and my Aunt is thrilled that she finally has some photos of them!). I can't wait until January for their wedding - and another trip down to Florida too! =) Love you & miss you two!

CLICK HERE for the slideshow!

Linda & Paul - wedding

2008-06-08T22:51:00.003-04:00

Linda & Paul FINALLY tied the knot on May 30th at The Seamen's Inne in Mystic, which is on the grounds of the breathtaking Mystic Seaport. Another gorgeous May day with insanely bright blue skies and sail boats drifting by during the waterfront ceremony! Linda & Paul are absolutely hilarious and adorable... they had me in tears from laughing so hard several times that day! Linda was actually a bridesmaid in Danielle and Al's wedding last year, so you may recognize her and Paul from their photos too! Tara and I had so much fun celebrating with everyone - and Linda was definitely right - those Italian families sure make you one of their own! =) Congratulations Linda & Paul! I hope you had a fabulous time in Aruba! Thank you so much for allowing Tara and I to capture your day!

CLICK HERE for the slideshow!

Melissa & Dan!!!

2008-06-08T17:20:00.003-04:00

What better way to celebrate my 100th post on my blog than with Melissa & Dan's wedding! For those who haven't followed, Melissa is my sister-in-law and Dan is my new brother-in-law! Melissa & Dan had a small, intimate ceremony (immediate family only) followed by their reception party at Wood Acres Farm in Terryville, CT - complete with horse and carriage rides and my daughter Jaedyn as the flower girl who was also in charge of bubbles for their big entrance! We were fortunate enough to have great weather (which never happens for our family!) and it was a gorgeous and fun filled day. We also did an informal "photo booth" and my hubby had a blast making signs for people and holding them up while they were unaware what he had wrote... lots of fun! I can't tell you how happy I am for Melissa and Dan - and it's nice finally being able to call Dan my brother-in-law! Congratulations! I love you guys!!!

CLICK HERE for the slideshow (it's a long one!)

Erica & Ryan

2008-06-08T13:30:00.006-04:00

Sunday, May 25th turned out to be a gorgeous day for Erica and Ryan's wedding! They were married at The Avon Old Farms Hotel in Avon, CT with some special Irish traditions and an evening of live music with lots of dancing, laughing and jokes followed. Lauren and I had a blast capturing the day and meeting Erica & Ryan's friends and family!

Thank you so much for allowing us to be part of your day! I hope that you're having a fantastic honeymoon! Congratulations!!!

CLICK HERE for the slideshow!

Lisa & Pete - engagement

2008-06-04T23:43:00.003-04:00

I'm trying to catch up on everything right now as it's been so busy since I got back from Florida! I just realized that I totally forgot to blog Lisa & Pete's engagement session which I did just before my vacation!

So, Lisa is a good friend of my sister-in-law's and she is just frickin' awesome. This I have known. What I did not know, however, was that Pete was frickin' awesome too! Poor Pete got rear-ended by a short bus on his way to the session and had a few hellish days at work, so I am amazed that he was even able to muster a smile... but of course, being around Lisa you just can't help but smile! These two are so incredibly funny and cute together... I was laughing so hard I couldn't take a photo at one point. We had a blast hanging out, catching up and being big goof balls together. Lisa & Pete decided on Boothe Memorial Park in Stratford for their session and I love that place because it has such a variety of interesting areas to shoot.

Lisa & Pete - I had such a blast with you at your session and I'm so glad I got to see you at Melissa & Dan's wedding! I can't wait for your wedding - just a couple more weeks! =)

Click the image to view the show!

Yawn

2008-05-31T22:41:00.002-04:00

Yes, I'm yawning... not because I'm bored, but because I am exhausted! Yesterday marked my third wedding in less than a week and man am I tired! I don't know how some photographers do multiple weddings every weekend - not for me, thank you! Vacation was great, but I feel like I need another one already! Speaking of vacation and photography, I just realized that I forgot to post about my little cousin! While in Florida I photographed my (not so) little cousin Rick and his long time fiance Chrissy's engagement session! They are FINALLY getting married! The wedding will take place in their (and my) hometown in Florida this January ON their 10th anniversary as a couple! And well, I'm sure you can guess who their wedding photographer is!

Last Saturday was Melissa & Dan's wedding (my sister-in-law and new brother-in-law!), Sunday was Erica & Ryan's and yesterday was Linda & Paul's. Last night I also had the pleasure of seeing Danielle & Al - I photographed their wedding last September and Linda was in the wedding! I've been super busy but it's been so much fun! I can't wait to share some photos from these three awesome weddings! Thanks to Lauren and the fabulous Tara for all their help with these weddings!

I just wanted to congratulate all of these couples again and I hope you all enjoy your honeymoons (and Rick & Chrissy enjoy your wedding planning)! Photos to come very soon! =)

Leavin'.....

2008-05-12T17:11:00.003-04:00

Just a heads up that I will be on vacation May 14th-21st to visit my family in Florida. Have a great week!

Happy Anniversary!

2008-05-12T17:08:00.003-04:00

Happy first anniversary, Vanessa & Rob! I miss you two like crazy and hope you're doing great!

Jenn & Kevin

2008-04-27T13:28:00.003-04:00

Friday I met up with Jenn & Kevin for their engagement session at Pepsico World Headquarters in Purchase, NY. Pepsico has the coolest sculpture garden surrounding the office building with ponds, fountains, gorgeous trees and all kinds of goodies. We had fun roaming the grounds and getting yelled at by security guards (I SWEAR I was not IN that sculpture!), then befriended by another security guard who took quite a liking to Jenn and Kevin! It turned out to be a gorgeous day and with the cherry blossoms, crabapples and magnolias in bloom it was pure paradise! If I were ever the corporate type, I think I'd want to work at Pepsico Headquarters - they sure have an awesome view and they even have a basketball court and I think we saw a fitness center in there! Hopefully we will be heading back there on their wedding day in September!

Thanks so much again Jenn & Kevin! I had a great time hanging out with you again! I can't wait for the wedding!

Click here to view the slideshow!

One of my favorites from the day:

Linda & Paul

2008-04-23T01:18:00.003-04:00

We couldn't have asked for nicer weather Saturday! I met up with Linda and Paul at Hammonassett State Park/Beach to start the day off with their adorable pug named Jack and then Linda, Paul and I headed to Mystic Seaport for a fabulous view and some fun roaming around the grounds! Are they not the cutest couple ever? They are so much fun and I cannot wait until their big day! =) Click the image for a slideshow!

Happy Earth Day!

2008-04-22T15:43:00.002-04:00

In light of Earth Day, I'd love to hear what everyone is doing to save our resources and our planet! We all have heard things you can do to help, but I want to know who is really doing something - not just today, but EVERY day! Inspire someone else to do something - share what you do (or don't do!).

Here are some ideas to start:

-Bring your own canvas bags for your shopping

-Don't take unnecessary trips - make a plan of where you need to go, what you need to do and map out your route to avoid running back and forth and all over town for no reason.

-TURN OFF YOUR LIGHTS when you don't need them

-TURN OFF THE WATER when you aren't using it

-Pick up trash where ever you see it

-Buy a water filter and a Nalgene bottle - stop buying those disposable plastic water bottles!

-Walk or ride your bike rather than taking your car when possible

-Carpool

-Pay your bills online

-Turn off your computer when you're not using it

-Only use heat and air when really needed - and keep it below 65 in the winter and above 75 in the summer.

-TURN OFF YOUR SPRINKLERS!! I can't tell you how crazy it makes me to see my neighbor's lush green grass in the middle of winter only because of the amount of water, fertilizer and pesticides their landscapers use. You don't NEED a lush green lawn.

-Reuse and Recycle whatever you can - I can't tell you how many people I know that STILL don't recycle and it's a real shame - especially when you consider how much easier it is to recycle than it was 20 years ago.

-Buy locally grown foods or grow your own

Now let's hear your ideas and what you do!

Earth Hour

2008-03-29T10:41:00.001-04:00

Take Action!
Turn out your lights tonight to ease the pressure on our Earth's energy resources.

Dresses your bridesmaids will thank you for!

2008-03-25T00:14:00.002-04:00

I came across this website through The Wedding Chicks and definitely found this worth a mention! Check out these one size fits all bridesmaids dresses from Two Birds Bridesmaid that can be tied in AT LEAST 10 different ways for unique looks to flatter any body type! Not only will everyone look great, your ladies can wear these dresses again and again!

Missing E-mails

2008-03-17T12:35:00.002-04:00

It has come to my attention that I have not received any e-mails sent through my website or directly to info@autumn-photography. I don't know how long this has been going on, but I heard from 5 people over the weekend that said they had e-mailed me in the last few weeks and I hadn't received them. I tested it myself with another e-mail address and those never showed up either! I *think* I now have the issue fixed, but if you have e-mailed me and haven't heard back, please try again at autumnthomes@gmail.com. My apologies if you e-mailed me and didn't hear back!

Melissa and Dan - part 2

2008-03-08T19:22:00.017-05:00

Last night I got together with my sister in law and her fiance Dan again for part 2 of their engagement session - the official PLANNED session! The weather was awful, but we braved the rain and wind for a few beach shots and some fun with the umbrella... until it broke! I guess we won't be using those umbrellas on their wedding day (in case it rains)! Apparently, the "really good deal" on the Christmas Tree Shop umbrellas wasn't such a deal after all. The rain and wind picked up and we headed back to their place for some more photos and some dinner! Thanks again Melissa & Dan! Love you guys!

March Print Special!

2008-03-01T10:08:00.001-05:00

Announcing the March Print Special! Pass the word - for the month of March, take 40% off your order of $150 or more by using the code "MARCH08" when you checkout through your online gallery. This offer only applies to prints and only purchases made online through your gallery between March 1st and March 31st.

Melissa and Dan - part 1

2008-02-27T18:50:00.006-05:00

As I have mentioned, my awesome sister in law Melissa is getting married in May to a great guy and I get to photograph their wedding! We were up in Vermont last week and Melissa and Dan came up a few hours before we were leaving, so I jumped for the chance at an inpromptu engagement session in the snow! We didn't take many, but here are a few of my favorites...
And what are big brothers for? Well, apparently my husband Sean thinks that big brothers are supposed to throw a heaping handful of snow in their sister's face when she's having her photo taken! Here's Melissa in shock and Dan brushing the snow off her face!

(not so) Itty Bitty!

2008-02-19T23:39:00.002-05:00

A HUGE congratulations goes out to my awesome assistant Lauren and her husband Jamie, who just welcomed their first child Monday! (Not so) itty bitty Logan was born Monday afternoon, weighing in at 10 lbs, 4 oz with a full head of black hair! I was going to photograph his birth, but alas, being such a big boy, they had to do a C-section so I wasn't allowed in. I gave Lauren some time to recover and went up to the hospital tonight to visit - and take some photos of course! I'll post a few after the new Mommy and Daddy get first peek once they return home from the hospital! Happy birthday to Lauren too - tomorrow is her birthday - 2 days apart! How ironic... my step sister's name is Lauren and her birthday was Monday... she had her first child just one day before her birthday! Happy Belated Birthday to Lauren G. & Regan too!

We're heading up to Vermont for a few days since the stars have aligned - Jaedyn is on school break, Sean is off for 3 days in a row and I'm finally feeling up to the long car ride! I'll probably spend my time in front of the toasty fire while Sean and Jaedyn snowshoe and explore, but it'll be nice to get away and really relax. We have no internet, limited cell service and only 3 TV stations up there, so there really is no choice but to relax and that's just what we all need! I'm looking forward to seeing some snow since we haven't had much around here this winter!

It's here!

2008-02-14T16:18:00.010-05:00

Congratulations to my friends Robert Norman and Landau Photographers whose photos also appeared in the premier issue of Wedding VOW magazine!

Visit from the Tooth Fairy

2008-02-13T11:45:00.007-05:00

I can't believe it... I'm still in shock.... Jaedyn lost her first tooth already at only 4 1/2 years old!!! I looked up the average age and it's 6! Well, she has always been ahead in everything else, so why not this too?! 2 days ago she mentioned that her tooth was loose... I thought that she must be mistaken, but upon inspection, it was indeed quite loose! She woke up this morning, climbed into our bed to wake us up and her tooth fell out! At least it waited until she was awake! Had to share my little girl's missing tooth grin!

So excited!

Showin' it off!

Amazing friends

2008-02-09T00:47:00.000-05:00

I just love my PUG group!!! This wonderful, caring, awesome group of local photographers that I have come to know and love looked into their hearts (and their wallets) and gave me three of the most incredible gifts - their friendship, support and a gift certificate for Peapod by Stop & Shop. It's funny... even though I've been home, recovering from surgeries, unable to drive, frustrated when there's not much food in the house, I hadn't even thought about Peapod because I'd never used it before. Well, I used it this week and got my delivery - THANK YOU all from the bottom of my heart! You have no idea how much I appreciate it! Oh, and my daughter Jaedyn thanks you too - she HATES going grocery shopping and wants me to do Peapod all the time now! I was so giddy when that big truck pulled into my driveway - you would all be laughing at me if you saw how excited I was!

What a perfect gift idea, guys! You rock and I love you!!!!!!! THANK YOU!

Girls just wanna have fun!

2008-02-05T04:04:00.000-05:00

Just some cute/fun/silly/sweet photos of my beautiful daughter Jaedyn from Sunday...

Shame on you, Oprah

2008-02-05T02:20:00.000-05:00

I pride myself on being real - true to myself, open and honest - with everyone - family, friends, clients - so prepare yourself - I'm about to get very real. I'm going to go out on a limb here and share something quite personal. Many of you know that I've been going through a rough time lately... many know I just had surgery (well, while I'm being so open, I just had 2 surgeries in a span of just over a month). The reason for all of this? It's called Intracranial Hypertension and it's quite rare. There are two classes of this condition - one is where they have a pinpointed cause (other conditions such as obesity, chiari malformation, etc., long term use of certain medications) and the other class is of unknown cause. I fall into the latter group. For most, there is no cure, only treatment. Treatments can include repeated lumbar punctures (aka spinal taps), medications, shunting and optic nerve surgery if vision is at stake. I exhausted the first two options as repeated lumbar punctures can cause many problems and I'd need them too often. The side effects of the medications were terrible and they didn't give me the relief I needed anyhow. So, I had a shunt placed and though I'm still recovering from the second surgery (which was only a week ago), I'm feeling pretty good. My head and my eyes are improving more and more every day and for that I am SO thankful. So why am I telling you all this? Because I desperately want to spread awareness of this condition, because I believe most people fear the unknown (some know bits of what's going on and I can imagine how your minds could wander!) and because I am angry at some very public misinformation about this condition that aired on national television Monday and I want to try to help clear some of it up.

I was watching Oprah's show on gastric bypass surgeries Monday and there was a girl on named Kylie... here is an excerpt from the show:

"When she was just 17 years old, Kylie began losing her eyesight as a result of her weight. This complication of obesity—known as pseudotumor cerebri—is usually only found in adult women.

At the time, Kylie weighed more than 250 pounds. She says her obesity caused spinal fluid to build up between her optic nerves and brain, causing severe migraines and eyesight loss. To avoid permanent damage, she took drastic measures."

This is the same condition that I have and this misinformation about the condition just irritates me!! The way this story reads is that this condition is a complication of obesity. First, if that were true, why doesn't every obese person (or obese adult woman as the show put it) have it? Why do very thin people like myself get it? I have never been overweight a day in my life... in fact, I've typically been underweight. My second issue with this is that it says it caused severe migraines... these are NOT migraines, but are very often, as in my case, misdiagnosed as migraines because the symptoms are quite similar. Third... it's called Intracranial Hypertension, people... pseudotumor cerebri is no longer the "PC" term. It is thinking like this that I believe caused my diagnosis to be missed for so many years - so many doctors believe and openly admit that this does not affect "skinny people". Since getting my diagnosis I have frequented many chat boards and I have found men, women and children have this - sure, the majority are overweight women (I wouldn't say obese though), but many are not. I don't know many people with this condition who have gone with gastric bypass surgery - most (even those who are obese) manage on medications and/or shunting (I have a shunt) and of course, those who are overweight are encouraged to lose weight. Many who do lose the weight DO NOT go into remission however, so even for them, weight isn't the only issue.

I totally "get" that this show was focused on the gastric bypass surgeries, but if you're going to give information on any condition, get your facts straight first. I am just dumbfounded that of all shows, Oprah's would be the one to misconstrue this condition. I expect more from you, Oprah. You, your producers and "Dr. Oz" need to do more research before airing things like this. I, along with MANY others, have already written a long e-mail to the Oprah show hoping to clear up these misconceptions and hopefully get a show dedicated to this condition to spread awareness of it.

There is a link to the right, here on my blog, for the IH Research Foundation if anyone is interested in reading more about this condition.

As far as this affecting my job, please, don't think for a minute that I would let this get in the way of my dreams (or yours!). When I was feeling at my very worst this condition still could not keep me down. I have never missed a wedding. I am way too driven and passionate for that... not to mention I could not even imagine having someone fill in for me at a wedding - that would be like tearing my heart out and stomping on it - it would take a lot more than this to keep me from capturing the wedding of two people who are depending on me to preserve those moments. Clients that, 9 times out of 10, I end up truly considering friends of mine... some are even more like family. This is also why I am limiting myself to only 2 more weddings for the year... I want to be absolutely sure that I can handle each and every one with the attention they deserve. I went through these surgeries so that I could have a better quality of life (and be better at my job)... it's amazing how much clearer you think when it doesn't feel like you have thousands of icepicks stabbing your brain and your eyeballs don't feel like they're going to pop out of your head! Very soon I will be fully recovered and feeling better than I have since I was a child... I already feel better than I have in close to a decade!

Happy Birthday to me

2008-01-17T01:39:00.000-05:00

Yesterday (Jan 16th) was my birthday, and while I'm dealing with a lot of struggles right now, I spent the day with my daughter, so it turned out to be a nice day. I wasn't up for much, but we went to Hands On Pottery and painted some ceramics and then came home and played some board games together. I was happy to be able to spend some quality time with Jaedyn and we both had fun. Of course, she whooped my butt playing Trouble, but I'm not a sore loser! I'm just happy to see that she is learning the strategy of the game and "sending me home" (with great joy) any chance she gets!

I'm still recovering from my recent surgery and my Dad is in the hospital 1200 miles away, so it's been difficult to say the least. The good news is that my Dad and I both have teams of great doctors working with us and I'm confident that we will both be doing well soon.

In order to ensure that I am able to give each couple the attention they deserve, I am only accepting 2 more weddings for 2008. I may open up a few more dates later in the year, but as of right now I want to be sure not to overextend myself. Select dates are available July through November. Please inquire for availability.

If I've already photographed your wedding and you haven't ordered your album yet, now is a good time to do it as turn around times on albums are much shorter in the "off season"!

Headache free and doing well!

2008-01-09T00:40:00.000-05:00

I am absolutely ELATED to report that I had my first headache free day since my surgery and I'm healing faster than I expected! My Mom and Step Dad are here from Florida and have gotten me out of the house and walking around every single day since they got here last week and the exercise has helped immensely! Mom's cooking certainly doesn't hurt either - I have my appetite back and I'm eating better than I have in a few years!

I'm still quite sore from the surgery itself, but I'm getting better every day. My incisions are healing well, though it is taking some time to get used to this foreign object in my body! The shunt feels so weird - I can feel it in spots when I run my hand over my skin and I can feel it moving around at times... so creepy... but it's working and that's all I care about! I had forgotten what it was like to not feel like my head was in a vice EVERY DAY, ALL DAY and now that my head actually doesn't hurt, I am so happy I could cry! I just need to finishing healing from the surgery and I will be a whole new woman! I cannot tell you how excited I am to experience a better quality of life and be able to give more of myself to my family and my business. I have plenty of big goals set for myself and my business and I can't wait to accomplish them!

I'm not ready to drive or return to work quite yet, though I expect that I'll be driving in the next week or so and doing some computer work and booking meetings at my home very soon. I plan to start taking portrait sessions again in February and I am currently booking weddings for June and beyond (I am already booked for the month of May).

Great things are coming and I can't wait!!!

A BIG huge thank you to everyone who has been thinking of me and praying for me - I'm seeing the evidence of it all!

Post surgery update 1 week later

2008-01-03T18:24:00.000-05:00

I got home from the hospital Sunday night, in time to ring in the new year in my own home (even though I slept through it!) and today I had my 14 staples removed from my 3 incisions. OUCH is all I have to say about that... there is something to be said about bedside manner and my neurosurgeon's partner needs a lesson in that! Feeling a little bit better today - it's nice to be off of the pain meds and thinking clearly! My 4 days in the hospital were a fog, but I will say, Rose and JoAnna, my nurses on the 10th floor at St. Vincent's were awesome. I also wanted to share something with you all that really made my week - my Dad send a dozen roses and a teddy bear to me since he is unable to make the trip from Florida... with the roses and bear came a card that read "It's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog. I Love you. Dad.". This is so true and it really made my week. I might look like a chihuahua, but I'm a rottweiler for sure!

Slowly but steadily recovering here.... My Mom and step Dad arrive tomorrow and I can't wait to see them! Everyone here has been so amazingly helpful here - it's like having my own personal nursing staff! Thanks again to all who have sent well wishes, prayers, cards and such - you all are the best!

Being a photographer, you know I made my hubby take photos of my wounds, but I'll spare ya'll the gory details!

Here's to a happy and HEALTHY New Year! (important announcement)

2007-12-22T10:56:00.000-05:00

Autumn Photography will be closed starting December 22nd for approximately 4-6 weeks. I am having surgery December 27th and will be taking some time off to recover. If you need any print or album orders filled, I should be up to that by late January. I expect to be fully recovered (and feeling better than I have in over a decade!) about 4-6 weeks post surgery. I will be posting updates every so often after my surgery to keep everyone in the loop as far as my recovery and return to work.

Thank you all so much for all of the prayers, thoughts and well wishes I have received! You are all so wonderful! I've never been so excited for the New Year! =)

Happy Holidays!!

Holly & Aaron

2007-12-15T20:01:00.000-05:00

The slick snow covered roads may have put a delay on this wedding, but it truly was the perfect day... a dream come true! Holly and Aaron were married at The Grandview in Poughkeepsie, NY on December 7th and I have to say, they are one of those couples that you just can't be around and NOT grin ear to ear. They are the sweetest couple and their story is just amazing... I can't imagine being in the same building with them and not noticing how much they love each other... or how much they love their family and friends. I am so thankful to have met them and to have been a part of their wedding. I had such a fantastic time with them and their friends and family (hey Robin!!) and I can't seem to wipe the smile off of my face when I think of them. Thank you so much, Holly & Aaron! You two are incredible! Congratulations again!!

Click here for the show!

Envy

2007-12-06T00:10:00.000-05:00

Massage Envy, that is! Oh how I wish it were 11 AM right now... I'd be getting a massage. Instead, it's 12:11 AM and my neck and back are locked up tight and I'm longing for 11 AM!

Okay, so there really isn't a point to this, but here's a good opportunity to plug Massage Envy - they have great rates, great hours (open 7 days a week and until 10 PM on the weekdays so there's no excuse not to go!) and they're a chain. Oh, and if you go to the one in Fairfield, Sarah is fantastic and super sweet... just don't steal her from me please! =) They also sell gift certificates and did I mention they have great rates, great hours and they're a chain? Hey, if you're looking for a gift idea, a massage makes a pretty sweet gift no matter who you're buying for! No, they don't pay me to say this... they don't even know about it... I just love them and love that they are reasonably priced and so incredibly convenient. Okay, so it's not the same as serene full service Derma Clinic, but it is nice and they do a great job.

Withdrawls!

2007-12-03T10:40:00.000-05:00

My internet is currently down and all I have is my Blackberry! It's been about an hour and I'm already going through withdrawls! Trying to get everything fixed today... This is the only downside of technology- we become so dependant!!

Edit: I'm back online! It's bedtime though, so I'll be catching up on those missed e-mails tomorrow!

Happy Anniversary!

2007-12-02T23:44:00.000-05:00

So, I don't always manage to post these, but I do remember them all - the anniversaries of the couples whose weddings I've photographed, that is! I almost missed posting this one, but, with just 3 minutes left, HAPPY FIRST ANNIVERSARY to Laura & Rusty! Congratulations! I hope you had a fabulous day!

Maternity, Engagement and Family, Oh My!

2007-11-30T14:45:00.000-05:00

Some of my latest work from November...

And a couple of fun shots from my maternity session borrowed from the JCastro blog - that's right, the Daddy to be is a fellow photographer! =)

Jaymie says this is my Spiderman impersonation...

Me, Audrey, Jaymie and their super cute dog JoJo

I'm back!

2007-11-26T15:02:00.000-05:00

Well, after an exhausting couple of weeks, I am back home and getting back into the swing of things. Working on responding to all of those e-mails that are overflowing my in-box at the moment! Ahhh.... it's good to be home.

Registry now available!

2007-11-01T17:37:00.000-04:00

Now, along with my gorgeous new gallery system, I have an exciting and brand spankin' new feature available: Gift Registries! That's right, just like you register at Bed Bath & Beyond, Williams Sonoma or Babies R Us... you can now create a registry at Autumn Photography! Set up is even easier than clicking the little gun at the pretty things you're eye-balling too! There are two options to sign up:

1. Just let me know you'd like to create one, provide your name, address, phone number and a password and it's all set to go!

2. If you already have a gallery set up, just create an account (where it says log in) and send me an e-mail letting me know you'd like to start a registry.

If you'd like, I can even provide you with complimentary registry cards to let people know that you've registered. Your family and friends will be able to find your registry through my gallery system's registry search and give you a gift (similar to a gift card) to use toward whatever you would like - extra album pages, gallery wrap canvas, prints.... you name it!

So... what are you waiting for??? Start your registry! =)

Happy Halloween!

2007-10-31T21:50:00.000-04:00

Since Jaedyn decided to be a pretty witch (though everyone still thought she looked a little like the girl from The Ring), I decided to be a scary witch. She was SO into Halloween this year, so she had me excited about it too. I haven't gotten this into my costume in ages! My Father in Law and husband carved/scraped up some pumpkins so I had to take some quick shots of those too. These were all taken with my point and shoot Canon G7 and are straight out of the camera.

One side of Sean's pumpkin:

Jaedyn and I

A close-up so you can see my prosthetic nose, warts and make-up a little better

The back of Sean's pumpkin

One side of my Father in Law Tom's pumpkin

Another of Tom's pumpkin

the last of Tom's pumpkin (yes, all 3 are on one pumpkin)

Hope everyone had a safe and happy Halloween!

Here's what I've been up to....

2007-10-27T12:46:00.001-04:00

So, the last couple of months or so have been pretty crazy around here and I haven't as much time to update my blog as I would have liked... so.... I thought I'd share a quick sampling of recent weddings, engagement sessions and family sessions. If you'd like to view the available slideshows for these events, please click on the photos!

Hope everyone's staying dry today and if you have to drive, please be safe!

Christopher & Christina

Mike & Dana

Al & Danielle

Lauf family

Aimee & Tim and their dog Cowboy

Ryan & Erica's Engagement Session

Mark & Peter's Civil Union

Christopher & Christina's engagement session

Mike & Dana's engagement session

I'm being published!

2007-10-21T13:33:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago I was contacted by the Research Editor of Wedding VOW magazine to see if I would be interested in submitting any of my work for publication in their premier issue coming to the Norwalk area this January. I was, however, a little bit disappointed that their target area is so small... Greenwich to Bridgeport. I have had so many fantastic weddings that I would love to submit, but they did not match the target area. I did have some that either partly took place within the target area or the couple lived within the area but got married elsewhere, so I submitted a few weddings for her to look at. I received an e-mail back saying that they had chosen one of my photos to be published in the "I Do" section of the January edition! Having never even entertained the thought of submitting for publication, I am over the moon! So, without further ado... I present to you Lauren and Steve... the photo that will be published in the January edition of VOW magazine which will be available in the lower Fairfield County area.It's a great site, so check it out! They even have a wedding planning guide and lots of great resources! The Norwalk, CT edition will be premiering January 14, 2008, so keep an eye out!

Gorgeous new galleries!

2007-10-20T21:30:00.000-04:00

Check out the main gallery page, a la PickPic, now accessible directly from my site under "client proofs"! I'm still uploading galleries like a madwoman, so if you don't see yours and it should be up, please bear with me. If yours is up and somehow I missed sending you an e-mail notification, please let me know! I'm still in the process of uploading galleries that were lost in the server switch (thanks to my old server!) and still configuring the rest of the system... everything should be finished up by mid-week.

Site update - Site's back up, Galleries still down =(

2007-10-17T21:05:00.001-04:00

My site is finally back up and running, thanks to Rebecca at PickPic! She was awesome and went SO far above and beyond to help me out as this really had nothing to do with her. Unfortunately, during the move from BluDomain's servers over to WestHost, Blu seems to have lost some of my files - specifically all of my client galleries and the entire system they ran on. I am trying to get them to help me restore them, but they may be lost. Luckily, I went through this move partly because I am switching over to a sweet new gallery/cart system - PickPic. Rebecca & Troy are aware of the major issues that have been going on with my site this week and they are working VERY hard to help me get everything resolved and get my new PickPic galleries up and running ASAP so at least I can reload everything onto there if Blu can't find my lost files. I am so sorry for any inconvenience with the missing galleries. They should all be back up by Monday (including the most recent ones that are due to be online this week), however they may be located in a different place if they are loaded into the new system. I will update and let everyone know as soon as I know what is happening with them.

My site is down!

2007-10-15T23:00:00.001-04:00

Just wanted to give everyone a heads up that my site is currently down, but should be back up and running *hopefully* in the next 24 hours. I'm in the process of switching servers and with that comes some hiccups along the way. I apologize for any inconvenience! I'm trying to get it all switched over as quickly as possible!

Congratulations all around!

2007-10-13T23:02:00.000-04:00

I just wanted to congratulate my friends Justin and Mary who got married today and also send a public congratulations to my sister in law Melissa who recently got engaged to her long time and totally awesome boyfriend Dan!

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!

Okay, okay, I promise, I will be posting some new photos soon!!!

Update - Good things

2007-10-11T09:38:00.000-04:00

I have been MIA for the last 2 weeks... first my husband and I went on our mini vacation to The Gunks (which was AWESOME and I can't wait to post some photos!), then I got home, photographed Chris & Christina's wedding at The Milford Yacht Club on Saturday, had a few meetings and photographed a super cute couple and their gorgeous dog on Sunday, then on Monday I was at the neurologist for a medical procedure that I did not think would have me laid up for more than a day, but alas, I'm still recuperating. I had a lumbar puncture done to diagnose me for something, and though I'm still hurting pretty badly from it, my neurologist and opthalmologist were correct in their suspicions and it means a much better life for me! Anyone who knows me knows that I get terrible migraines ALL THE TIME. Well, it turns out that for the most part they weren't actually migraines, but it was from a rare disorder and now that it has been diagnosed and I'm being treated for it, I've had NO MORE HEADACHES!!! I cannot tell you how happy that makes me! I'm still not feeling all that fabulous from the lumbar puncture and I'm trying to get caught up on the hundreds of new e-mails in my inbox right now, so it's still going to take me a bit to get back up to speed.

More good news: I'm being published! One of my photos has been selected to appear in Wedding VOW magazine's premier edition for the Norwalk area which comes out January 14th. Congratulations to Lauren & Steve whose photo was chosen!

Thank you all for your patience while I recuperate and get back on my feet. Trust me, a week of being "down" is SO worth it! I already feel renewed!

The Gunks Getaway

2007-10-02T09:34:00.000-04:00

I know, I know, I have a ton of updating to do! All in good time.....

I'm off for a mini vacation with my hubby to "the Gunks" in New Paltz, NY, located in the Mohonk Mountain Preserve and I can't wait! We're celebrating my husband's 30th birthday (this Friday) and our 5th anniversary (the 26th)! I can't wait to share photos from our trip!

Have a great week!

Before and After

2007-09-09T22:26:00.001-04:00

I had a meeting today with a couple that is getting married next year and they asked me a question that has been asked many, many times... "Are the proofs touched up?". Now, I have been asked this so many times, but this couple really made an impression on me and I thought maybe I should use my blog to show you all exactly what I mean since it's difficult for me to put into words with no real example. There is original (straight out of the camera), proof (what you see in your online gallery and printed proofs) and final print quality, well, for me at least - I can't speak for other photographers. Here are some examples of the originals, proof quality and the final print quality. Of course, on these small little blog photos it may be difficult to see all of the differences, but you get the idea.

Please note, if your monitor is not properly calibrated, the colors, contrast and vibrance may differ from what you would see in an actual print.

Final - print quality:

The first image - the original - is quite flat and dull looking. This is actually intentional. With pro cameras you want to make sure that YOU make the decisions on the contrast, sharpness, etc. Because the same settings don't work on every photo, you don't want the camera making these decisions for you as it can easily be overdone. You can always add more [contrast, saturation, sharpness, whatever] in post processing - you can't always take away. Because these straight out of the camera shots are so lifeless looking and don't really show you their true potential, I do make minor adjustments to all of the proofs. Every printed image (whether in the album or loose prints) gets some extra special attention. =)

Birth of a butterfly and a busted lip

2007-09-08T23:28:00.000-04:00

I bought Jaedyn a butterfly kit - similar to an ant farm - last month. It came with a big netted "house" and a coupon to mail away for your caterpillars. We got 5 caterpillars in a little cup with their own food supply and watched them grow and grow and GROW! Man, those things get big quick! Finally we watched them as one by one, they attached themselves to the paper lining under the lid of the cup and each made their chrysalis. Once all of them were done, we took the paper liner out and pinned it to the inside of the netted house and waited for them to emerge. As of today we have 4 Painted Lady butterflies and one chrysalis - the last one is a stubborn little guy that was slacking in making the change to begin with! We also learned that they can't eat - they can only drink - we put fresh flowers on the bottom of their home and a few times a day we use an eyedropper to drizzle sugar water on the flowers.

Jaedyn is loving this and we are too - it's such a neat thing to watch. Of course, my cats are going crazy watching these butterflies flutter around in their home! Luckily, the butterfly home comes with a strap so you can hang it up - we hung it on a plant hook in the ceiling to keep them safe. The first two butterflies sure picked a great day to make their appearance - yesterday morning Jaedyn busted her bottom lip open pretty badly and we noticed the first two butterflies shortly after... at least she had something to be happy about yesterday! Poor baby - she's so miserable! She was getting ready to jump down off of her bed and her feet got caught up in the blankets - WHAM! - she hit the floor with her face. She has a nice deep puncture wound, some scrapes and bruises, but she's alright - no stitches, thank goodness! Through all of it - immediate care clinic and all - she kept asking if she could still go to school! Well, at least we know she likes it! Why can't all kids have that attitude about school?

Here are a few photos - these were all taken with my point and shoot camera, so please excuse the quality:

My poor baby (today - 1 day after her injury)

Here's hoping for a better day tomorrow!

I'm it!!!

2007-08-28T11:57:00.000-04:00

Paul & Krystal TAGGED ME!!! So, now it's my turn I guess....

THE RULES:
1. Post these rules before you give the facts.
2. List eight (8) random facts about yourself.
3. At the end of your post, choose (tag) someone and list their name (linking to their page.)
4. Leave them a comment on their blog letting them know they've been tagged!

1. I tried snowboarding last winter for the first time ever (first snow sport ever) and thought I broke my butt! Even though I was hurting real bad for a few weeks afterward, I do plan to try again this winter.

2. I'm extremely stubborn! (See above!)

3. I've been known to do some crazy things just to get the right angle for a photo. I have climbed trees, waded through streams at the base of a waterfall (and slipped on the slippery rocks, but kept my camera dry!), laid down in the middle of the road and once I had a close call with some sort of wild animal when I invaded it's home by creeping down into some tall brush.

4. I'm learning to rock climb. I've been going to indoor gyms recently, but my husband is planning to get me outdoors on the big cliffs soon! I've got to get ready for our trip to The Gunks this October!

5. I'm an only child but I was never lonely! Four of my cousins lived with me at different times of my childhood and I also acquired a step sister (who lived with me) and two step brothers (who didn't).

6. I love arts and crafts of pretty much any kind and my daughter is taking after me in that respect!

7. When I lived in Chicago I decided to have a little fun... I dyed my hair so that it blended between (from top to bottom) magenta, purple, royal blue, aqua and lime green. One day while walking to the L, a school bus drove by me and some kid yelled out the window "Hey Skittles!!! Taste the rainbow!!". When I went to Florida to visit my parents (whom I had already warned), my Mom looked like she was going to faint and just couldn't stop starting at my hair and shaking her head the whole time I was there. I loved it, but my friends and family still bring it up like it's something I'm embarrassed by. I am more embarrassed by the terrible shape my hair was in for the next year and a half after I fried it with all that bleach! It was really disgusting and looked and felt like straw.

8. I love the water and was born and raised in Florida, but I'm freaked out by going IN oceans or lakes. This is only in the last 10 years or so and I just can't explain it. I have forced myself to go in oceans and lakes in the last few years but I still get a lump in my throat.

Now it's my turn to tag someone, so I pick........

Vicki, Matt & Sarah, Sandra, Alisha and Luke!

Mark & Peter

2007-08-24T14:27:00.000-04:00

Next month I'm photographing Mark & Peter's civil union (my first!) and last weekend we went out and did an engagement/casual session before the big day! Thankfully, we bumped up the time a bit, because it started raining about 20 minutes after our originally scheduled time! Whew! First we headed over to picturesque Binney Park in Greenwich and walked around for a while. Getting these two to relax and forget about me was tough at first (as it usually is), but then they relaxed, opened up and we actually drew some onlookers! Of course, like most people, they got a little embarrassed that everyone was watching them, but I told them my philosophy - "well, let's give them something to look at and talk about in their boring little lives!". After a great time and lots of laughs at the park, we headed back to their place for a change of clothes and to pick up their adorable dogs for some more photos. We got yelled at by the lifeguard for bringing the dogs on the beach... come on... it was the tiniest little corner of sand no where near anything or anyone! Oh well... at least we managed to get a few great shots before being booted out of there! I can't wait for their civil union next month - knowing these two, I'm sure it's going to be a LOT of fun!

Click HERE to check out the slideshow!

Nichola Maria

2007-08-23T22:00:00.001-04:00

Ever heard someone sing so beautifully that it gave you chills and goosebumps? Nichola has one of those voices! We had so much fun hanging out and creating some great images for her first CD! She is so warm and funny and has the most amazing voice... she's going places fast - keep an eye out for her! By the way, if you go to my site, the third song in the jukebox is my favorite of Nichola's - it's called "Beside Me". I had the honor of listening to her perform this song live in front of me while we hung out at the cascades taking photos. All I can say is WOW. My eyes actually teared up listening to her. While we were out she actually started "writing" a new song which she was working on during our session! I can't wait to hear the final result! The photos above are the ones Nichola chose to use... I think she made some great choices!

Prayers appreciated

2007-08-20T18:21:00.000-04:00

I called my Dad (who lives in FL) around 4:20 this afternoon and my Uncle answered and informed me that there was an ambulance there taking my Dad to the hospital. He's a brittle diabetic and his blood sugar had dropped into the teens... I haven't gotten any updates yet, but I would really appreciate if you'd all keep my Dad in your prayers! Thanks in advance... I'll update when I know something more.

Tim & Lizabeth

2007-08-18T15:23:00.000-04:00

What a super fun couple! Tim and Lizabeth were cracking us up all day with their awesome sense of humor and willingness to have a little fun with their photos! Their friends and families were great too and their bridal party was no exception - I actually asked one of the bridesmaids if it was a requirement that they all take dance classes to be part of the wedding because man, could they dance! Everyone was laughing and having a great time all day, including Vicki and I! We did the photos before the ceremony and it was so nice to be able to attend the cocktail hour! Photos were at Elizabeth Park and the reception was at The Pond House Cafe in Elizabeth Park. The ceremony was held at the Kingdom Hall in Berlin.

Congratulations, Liz & Tim! Thanks for the non stop laughs!

CLICK HERE for the slideshow!

Shawna & Jimmy

2007-08-18T14:41:00.001-04:00

Shawna and I met at work in Michigan back in 1999... she was a bridesmaid in my wedding almost 5 years ago and brought Jimmy as her date... so you can imagine how happy I was for these two when they tied the knot on July 28th! Their wedding was down on Long Island and Vicki and I attended the rehearsal dinner and after party as well. It was a little bit weird to me - being a guest as well as the photographer, but it sure was fun! I got a little bit spoiled sitting at a guest table next to one of my best friends, getting served all of the courses, having a waiter to bring me beverages and getting to play games for the centerpiece giveaway! Vicki loved that she got to capture me being a guest as well! Vicki was such a huge help and I can't thank her enough for working so hard so that I could at times just be a guest as well. It was such a treat for me as Shawna, Ginger and I had not all been together since my wedding in 2002. Ginger lives in Michigan, Shawna is in Long Island and I'm here in Connecticut - funny that we all met in Michigan! After a Mediterranean cruise and a visit to Croatia, my friends are back home and enjoying married life.

Congratulations, Shawna & Jimmy and thank you so much for everything!

CLICK HERE for the slideshow!

From the rehearsal dinner: Shawna's Mom made a scrapbook and mistakenly put photos of Shawna's brother and sister (who both happen to be black) inside and even on the cover, thinking they were Shawna! We all got quite a good laugh out of that one! I guess they aren't kidding when they talk about being color blind!

Ginger and Shawn- likely to be the next wedding I'll attend as a guest! =)

Yeah, they kiss a lot!

My crazy girls!

Sad that the wedding is over!

Ginger and I at the after party

Me and my girls!

Positive charge

2007-08-17T19:46:00.000-04:00

I have had this crazy electronic charge surrounding me or something - my friend Nichola says it's a positive charge causing things around me to short out - I told her it sure feels negative, but I like her take on it! I've somehow managed to cause my phone, computer, car and the fan switch in my daughter's bedroom some major grief! Everything seems to be in working order now, but I had to buy a new phone (the delicious BlackBerry 8830 World Edition!), had my car serviced 5 times in the last month - mostly for them to tell me it's a happy car and basically that I'm crazy - and I bought some more RAM for my computer to make the horribly gut wrenching "fatal system error" messages stop and get my programs to start running smoothly again! I think I may have missed some phone messages in the last week or two due to my phone issues, so if you left me a message and did not hear back from me, I sincerely apologize but I did not receive them!

I will be posting lots of new stuff later today and tomorrow - now that I cured my computer's awful hiccups!

2007-08-04T23:58:00.000-04:00

It's been a really crazy and busy couple of weeks around here! Last Friday Vicki and I headed down to Smithtown on Long Island to photograph my old friend Shawna's wedding (to Jimmy - can't leave him out!) and started off with the rehearsal dinner. The next morning, bright and EEEEAAAARRRRLLLLYYYY we were with the girls getting ready for the ceremony that was to take place at 10 AM - the earliest wedding I've ever heard of much less photographed! Guys - did you know that the female half of the bridal party typically takes 4+ hours to get ready? These girls started getting ready at 4:00 AM - that's right, I said four o'clock in the morning and weren't ready until a few minutes before the scheduled 10 AM ceremony! Wow... I have tell my husband that next time he complains about me taking so long to get ready! Seriously - any future brides reading this, please listen to this advice - however long you *think* it's going to take to get ready (after consulting with your stylist and make-up artist), add an hour and a half! The day started immediately with delays, but we chugged along and I actually got to play guest a little bit too! The reception ended at 5:30 and an after party followed... it was a long, long day! I finally got back to my hotel around 11:30 PM and still had to prepare for the next day! Sunday I had the pleasure of second shooting for the fabulous Sandra at Eau Claire Photographics for a super cool couple, Cynthia & Ian, in Setauket (also on Long Island). We had a great time, despite the rain!

After my stay in Long Island I came home for a session with one of my favorite clients and her newest addition to the family, followed by a session for my husband's Aunt and her best friend (which has inspired me to get photos with my best friend!). Thursday I met with an awesome and fun loving couple to discuss their September 2008 wedding and there were even talks of me doing a free-fall to get some great shots! They totally cracked me up and I hope to be seeing them again soon! Note: I will do *just about* anything for an awesome shot, but a free fall..... with my camera? That would be a negative. So don't expect to be seeing photos taken by me from 10,000 feet unless I'm in a commercial plane photographing from my window seat! =)

Today was yet another incredibly relaxed and fun wedding - Lizabeth and Tim rocked and I can't wait to share their wedding images! This is two weddings in a row that the bride and groom chose to do photos together before the ceremony and let me just tell you... both weddings were so laid back and stress-free! If you're worried about traditions and superstitions, let me just add that my in-laws did their photos before their ceremony and they have been married for over 30 years (I think it's 32)! Just do it - you'll be glad you did! =)

Whew! So, there's the update... look for some evidence this coming week!

Kelli & Todd tie the knot

2007-08-03T00:36:00.000-04:00

Not too long ago, I posted Kelli & Todd's engagement photos... well, they were married July 21st after being together for 10 years! Believe me, that was the one of the key points during the best man's fantastically funny toast! Kelli was stunning in her gorgeous gown and the (SO my style) white flip flops that donned their monogram, wedding date and signatures of her bridesmaids on the soles! What a cute touch! We had such a great time and I can't tell you how much fun the (not so) "formal" portraits were! The whole bridal party was rockin', having fun and totally working the camera! The brick wall and perfect lighting outside of the church was to die for... and we weren't eaten alive by bugs this time around - what more could you ask for?! I'm telling you, the stars aligned for this one! The reception was held at The Amber Room Colonnade in Danbury and man, was that party jumping - literally! What an awesome time... thanks so much Kelli & Todd for allowing us to capture your wedding story and a huge congratulations again!!

Click HERE for the show!

I just love this window, so of course, we had to put the dress in it!

Kelli's engagement ring in a flower from their back yard

Kelli's sister Jill writing the date on the bottom of Kelli's flip flops - so cute!

The awesome needlepoint monogram being pinned to the inside hem of Kelli's gown for her "something blue"

An emotional hug between Mother- and Daughter- in-law

Seriously, could they look any happier? I just love moments like these.....

Yeah, we decided to play in traffic a bit! Okay, there really wasn't any traffic, which was a very good thing since I was on my belly in the middle of the road, but it sure was fun!

Gazebos... not my thing... but I loved the sweet lens flare from the sun that spiced this baby up!

Click HERE for the show!

Autumn Photography

Fabulous new blog

Happy Holidays!

Gift Certificates make great holiday gifts!

What the Duck?

As promised... Thanksgiving weekend special!

It's coming....

Christine & Brad :: Engagement

Autumn Textures

Last day!

Katie & Andrew

Baby Payton

OMG It's Hannah!!!

Holiday special

Linnea & Drew :: Engaged

OneLight Workshop

The countdown begins...

Newport

Digital Files

Anxious...

I've been tagged!

House hunting

Jenn & Kevin :: amazing wedding!

Meghan & Brad :: wedding

visitor

Great weddings!

First Day of Kindergarten!

New Beginnings

Gone camping!

Jesse & Kelly

Personal time

She's got it!

Catch up!

Happy 5th Birthday, Jaedyn!!!

Kayaking

2nd shooting (for a change!)

Kathy & Larry

Lisa & Pete - wedding!

Back up and running!

still nothing....

Internet down!

Awesome weddings!

Meghan & Brad

Jeanette & Don

Graduation!

Hot Mamas!

On "E"

Rick & Chrissy

Linda & Paul - wedding

Melissa & Dan!!!

Erica & Ryan

Lisa & Pete - engagement

*Yawn*

Leavin'.....

Happy Anniversary!

Jenn & Kevin

Linda & Paul

Happy Earth Day!

Earth Hour

Dresses your bridesmaids will thank you for!

Missing E-mails

Melissa and Dan - part 2

March Print Special!

Melissa and Dan - part 1

(not so) Itty Bitty!

It's here!

Visit from the Tooth Fairy

Amazing friends

Girls just wanna have fun!

Shame on you, Oprah

Happy Birthday to me

Headache free and doing well!

Post surgery update 1 week later

Here's to a happy and HEALTHY New Year! (important announcement)

Holly & Aaron

Envy

Withdrawls!

Happy Anniversary!

Maternity, Engagement and Family, Oh My!

I'm back!

Yawn