Let's Go Way Back
Let's go way back to where it all began: a little white house, a camera, and a dream. Eleven years ago I married an amazing guy with the sweetest family and fell in love with his little
town. We got married at the Loft at Keith Farms in Ash Grove in the grass as the sun set, and we partied all night with families and friends in the coolest old barn. (Coming soon: more about this sweet venue among other favorite venues in the future!) I love looking back on this photo. We were young and excited and just ready to tackle the world together! Shane just knew me- he actually gave me an underwater camera for our wedding gift. He's a keeper.
Home Sweet Home in Ash Grove, MO
This was our first home. It was formerly David and Josie Dodd's home, my husband's grandparents. We were blessed to rent it for a couple of years and it was perfect. It was here where we brought home baby Allie and baby Ava. With the help of friends and family, we changed the little back bedroom into the cutest little nursery, with a sweet tree with birds painted on the walls. I fell in love with our life in the country.
Freezing Time
From this home, I found my love of photography growing. I decided it was time to purchase a step-up camera to start documenting baby Allie and our growing family. I wanted to remember every detail with Allie. Her little toes, her big eyes, her head full of hair, all of the adventures we went on. Here we are in Yellowstone on a hike. Shane carried her in that purple backpack for miles. Allie took her first steps on this trip! (Note to self- we have to go back soon.)
Then came sweet Ava and then wild man Parker. And boy, do they keep us on our toes! Being a mom is the greatest joy in my life, and I am so thankful I have had my camera over the years to get precious photos of precious time. Every once in awhile I will remember I should probably be in the frame in some of these. Any other mamas struggle with getting enough photos with your kids?!
An Interest in the Old
In addition to using photography as an attempt to freeze time, (not possible, I know, they grow up and that's amazing too)... ANYWAYS, I've always loved old historic things. This was one of the barns that was on the property of the old Dodd house. The vines, the barn wood, the old tools inside... I loved everything about it. This barn is no longer there as the new owners understandably needed to take it down. As I look back, I am so thankful I have some photos of this (as well as a painting thanks to my friend Kory! ) so that we can forever remember!
Photo Sessions Through the Years
Over the years I continued to grow in my photography, learning new skills. I would photograph friends and family hoping to help them freeze their little moments too, which grew into me photographing their friends and family. All this time I was working as a school counselor; such a sweet era in my life. I grew so many amazing relationships with students and their families. This past year I switched careers, working as a marketing specialist but continued to focus on my photography. The BEST part of taking pictures is getting to continue these relationships I've made in the community as well as meeting new amazing people. There is something SO rewarding about getting to see people and families who you adore and capturing their love in photographs.
Grateful
So thankful for God's guidance- he truly has the most beautiful plan is always working. So thankful for all of my family and friends' support of my photo journey. Thank you for allowing me to photograph your sweet families over the years and highlight the beauty of our town. Thank you for dealing with the crazy that is my family. Blessings and love to you! Hoping to share more of my heart in later blog posts!
-Hilary