just an old shirt

It sits in your drawer but, we both know I'm the only one that wears it.  Its old and beginning to fray where the sleeves were cut off so many years ago.  You smirk when I pull it out and slip it on and I know you think it's funny that I still wear it after all these years.


It's just an old shirt.  But it's the first shirt you lent me when we got caught in a spring rain storm on campus.  I made fun of you for the cut off sleeves and you protested that 2 a days were a bit easier in a sleeveless shirt.


Much to your dismay, it also made an appearance on our honeymoon.  Nothing felt better on my red hot sunburn than that old, worn out cotton.


Most nights, it was the only thing that comfortably covered my belly, 9 months swollen with our sweet baby boy.  And even though it was mid December, those old cut off sleeves kept me from turning the AC on.

Yes, it's just an old shirt but it reminds me of us.  It reminds me of a 19 year old girl, a little lost, wandering and not quite sure what she was doing next.  It reminds me of a goofy, big hearted frat boy that took her hand and stayed by her side while she figured it out.


Thanks for staying with me while I found......me.  Thanks for pushing me to be what I am today.  Thanks for the days when you thank me profusely for the kitchen being clean when we both know it's the only clean room in the house. 


And thanks for that old shirt.

Andrea & Alex: Occoquan Engagement

I had a fabulous time with these two lovelies down in Historic Occoquan last week.  It's only the second time I've shot there and the first time I've done a full session there.  I grew up around the corner and it was a bit surreal to return for photography purposes.

Andrea and Alex were a dream to work with; meaning they did everything I asked and threw out some of their own ideas in the process.  I can't wait for their wedding in October (especially after seeing their serious model faces!!  Just wait!!)

Enjoy their sneak peek! 

Caitlin: JMU Senior

She is fiercely independent and more private than anyone I know.  You need a secret kept?  She's your girl.  She is loyal to a fault and loves with all her heart.


She's my sister, 8 years my junior but wise beyond our combined years.  Tomorrow she graduates from JMU with honors and I couldn't be more proud.


Last week, I was able to get away from my crazy life and escape down to Harrisonburg for a little girl time and a fun senior session :)

Is she gorgeous or what?!?

We love you little Hood Rat and we are so, so proud of you!!!

Stacey & Kenny: Vienna Wedding

This wedding was the unexpected beginning to my 2012 wedding season.  I say that, because as of the beginning of March, my first wedding of the year was scheduled for June.


I then got an email from Stacey, a sweet Bride to be, explaining that her fiance was in the Army and would be stationed in Japan in May.  They had just gotten engaged in February and were hastily planning their wedding for April 13th.  She said she knew it was late notice but she hoped that I was available and I'm so glad that I was!  Stacey, Kenny, their bridal party and their families made for an amazing kick off to Wedding Season 2012!!


Kenny and Stacey were married at the beautiful St John Neumann Church and their reception followed at the Grand Atrium. To top it off, I also had the pleasure of working with the fabulous Laurie Bracewell as my second shooter!!


Congratulations Kenny and Stacey!  Best of luck in your new life together!  Thank you so much for letting me be a part of your special day!


Enjoy your preview!

I'm loving this church shot that Laurie captured!!  I'm thrilled that I finally got the chance to work with her!!