I had never met Iris before, but after following her blog for a little while, I felt like we might be the same person…. and I knew we’d get along real well. Iris is a another wedding and portrait photographer in Orange County who is pretty much a super woman. When we talked on the phone before the shoot, she mentioned that not only does she own her own business, but she’s also a full time mom of two adorable children. I have no idea how you do it, Iris…. you amaze me.

Welp, Ricky, Iris, Annabelle, and Christian…. I had so much fun running around Irvine Regional Park with you! Your family is too cute, and I hope these photos will help remind you later on down the road how much you loved each other. And Iris, I know you aren’t on this side of the camera very often, and even if you don’t believe me…. I think you’re STUNNING. I hope I’m as in love, as successful, and as beautiful as you when I’m a mom. Here are my favs….

Mr. Lightning McQueen himself!

Fist Pump?

Then… out came the mustaches….

FAVORITE.

Whenever I get the chance, I like to expand my photographic vision and try on something new for size. My bestie Betsy Lackey bought a Dooney and Bourke purse from a Buffalo Exchange we visited in Dallas, so I shot a few to showcase her newest accessory. It was pretty easy since she’s ridiculously photogenic and BEEEEautiful. What do you think? I kind of love this photo….

Today has been a “cave” day, and I’m so grateful for it. I’m thoroughly enjoying editing, culling images, uploading, emailing, and FINISHING things. This year has been so crazy and I find myself wondering where the balance is between getting things done and living joyfully through the “real life” stuff that happens. I suppose the answer would be grace– grace given to me for taking a little longer to deliver things, giving grace to those who don’t understand, and giving myself some grace when I realize I can’t be perfect. I’m learning more and more that control is a fallacy, and I’m deluding myself thinking that somehow I can control the way life goes. Things happen, uncontrollable things, and the only thing I CAN control is how I react to it. Sometimes the hardest part of moving past the bad “real life” stuff  is wrapping your mind around the “I CAN do this” and letting that carry you through.