Trevor Dayley Photography Workshop

I went to an extremely helpful photography workshop given by Trevor Dayley. What a talented photographer. Every hour spent there was totally worth it. I learned how to better use my DSLR camera as well as some editing tips. A model came so we could practice our techniques. The pictures turned out fabulous of her. And so now, I'm finally where I want to be with furthering photography. My intentions have been to be able to capture special memories of my children and extended family. But, who knows, maybe I'll do it as a side profession. I'm sure that's what it will come to.
And I'm so thankful to have this opportunity for the next few months as I prepare for nursing school to be able to have such a fun outlet.

Here's my history: I remember as a girl, Chris (my bro) took photography in high school. I don't remember his pictures, BUT I remember having the desire to do it too! In junior high, where I had the opportunity to take photography, I ceased it. And in 8th grade, I recieved the outstanding photography student award! Keep in mind this was out of the entire school (grades 7-9). Not too shabby, eh? Seems silly, but it's a start. I got caught up in athletics and student government therefore I didn't continue developing my talent.

Through out my life, though, I have always been drawn to the arts. As a very young girl (age 6 or so) I took watercolor lessons from a wonderful old lady who was a great artist. I loved it! I learned so much about color and the importance of contrast, etc...even at a young age. But here's the problem, I jump from interest to interest. I moved on to piano (which I still play, fortunately) and then finally I came back to drawing in high school. Sadly, my teacher never gave what I thought exceptional grades (the A+'s). I was discouraged. He seemed biased as to WHAT art it. I don't take criticism well, considering I never tried improving my artwork in the class. Looking back I wish I had!

Anyway, I love art...whether it be visual or auditory (music). I have a great appreciation for it. So I hope as others view my art they may have an appreciation and look at it in a respectful manner. I have confidence that my work will only improve and the reputation that proceeds it!

I watermarked because these are my original work. Thanks Kalynne for being a great model. You're stunning!
http://www.trevordayley.com/
http://www.facebook.com/#!/modernphoto

We Voted Today

We voted today. The END....

Maycee's first Halloween!

We had a blast celebrating Halloween with Maycee. I especially enjoyed making her adorable costume. She's so cute! And she did not like her costume very much when it came to crawling. I, too, dressed up like a ridiculous woman from the 80's. Shem, well, he decided to be a student, I guess we'll call it that. Yes, he did not dress up. I guess I'm still a kid in many ways and he's the adult. But it sure was fun. We had plenty of family time and enjoyed seeing the little cousins get together. We kicked off the weekend by going to Schnepf farms on Friday night with Mark, Shanna, Nixen, and grandma Wanlass. The next night we went to their Trunk-or-treat festival for their ward. Shem entered in his pumpkin carvings and won first and second place! Haha, that's his favorite thing to do this time of year. And Sunday night, we hung out with the Couch side and took Maycee and the cousins trick-or-treating! So much fun! I look forward to next Halloween when Maycee is walking around door to door. Such a little cutie! Happy Halloween!

Hanging out at our ward chili cook-off.


Her first face painting! Haha

{high ISO + low lighting = grainy photos}

Aren't they adorable together? Taking baths after a fun night!

Nixen! CRAZY hair!! :) So sweet!

This is Maycee's favorite pose lately. She dislikes me taking pictures of her.

Having fun with my extreme make-up and wardrobe.

Love the dirty tights and shredded sleeves...it was hot so I had to cut off Maycee's long sleeves. Oh well I suppose.

CAYLEB!

Emmalee!

Colin!

(he's "autumn" and Sienna is "spring") CLEVER!!

Sweet cheeks LAUREN!! As a little lamb!

Sienna and Chris! Her tutu was ADORABLEEEE!!!! Sharina, great job on their costumes!

Trick-or-treating on Halloween night! We had a blast! Thanks for the memories everyone. Love you all!!

Happy Birthday, Shem!

Shem turned 29 on the 8th! Woohoo! We did lots of celebrating, considering this is his last year in his twenties. It was fun getting together with family to celebrate. In fact, we got both sides (the Couch's and Wanlass') together at Joe's Real BBQ in Gilbert. Oh yeah, now that's the stuff! Anyone who has never been there should go! Great food and fun atmosphere! Here are some of the memories we made...


I can never get her to pose for the camera! Notice the shirt? "I love daddy SOOOOO much." She definitely does!


Such a little stud. This is Colin, Sharina and Chris' son.

Sharina and Chris (my bro)

Such proud grandparents!


Nixen is so adorable! I love his orange nose and hands!
Our cheesy group picture! Gotta love it! Look at Nix and Maycee...they're planning something mischevious.

Thanks so much to our families for coming to celebrate! Happy Birthday, Shem! I love you lots!

October Conference

I have not kept up with blogging lately. I've had numerous computer difficulties and it's making me crazy AND since Maycee began crawling I've not been able to get much done with anything. That includes getting ready everyday. Motherhood is by far the hardest thing I've ever experienced and I feel like such a bad mom at times. Messier, impatient, and not superwoman. So after a night of waking up multiple time with a hungry baby girl that is the lightest sleeper in the world, I'm attempting to catch up today as she catches up on sleep.

Maycee and I had the opportunity to go to Utah for this past conference. Shem couldn't go, because of school. We were sad to leave him behind, but excited to see grandma and grandpa. My parents drove us up there and it was long, but worth it.

We had tickets to see the Saturday afternoon session. I was sad Maycee couldn't go, but my mom stayed back to watch her while my dad, pops and grams, and I drove to Salt Lake from Ogden. It was enjoyable spending time with grandma and grandpa, and I was so happy to be able to listen to the prophet and his apostles speak. I will never forget the feelings and impressions I felt while there.

We also were able to celebrate my grandpa's 82nd birthday while there. He loves sweets and he has his special chair where he watches tv and his favorite snacks are on the table next to him. We decided to give him some nice containers that will help keep his snacks last longer. And my grandma made her traditional roast beef, yum!

We had a great trip and thank you pops and grams for having us! We will miss you til next time.

My Grandma enjoyed Maycee. Maycee is so easy to love.

Grandpas's Birthday!


We went for a walk to enjoy the beauty of Ogden. The trees on the mountains were beginning to change color. Fall!

Temple Square was so fun. I love visiting. I'm so glad to have been able to walk on the grounds and feel the peace. It's amazing how different the temple grounds are compared to the rest of Salt Lake. The temple, in the middle of a busy city, seems so still and peaceful. We also went to the Lion House Pantry Restaurant. That was my first time ever eating there! All these years I've been missing out, most definitely.




In the Salt Lake Temple Visitor's Center.
Saying good bye. We can't wait to visit again!