Wherever Life Takes Us

We are looking at...

2011-06-27T14:24:00.001-05:00

pools. Who knows if this will actually materialize, but anyone with pool input, please chime in. I have read a ton about different inground types and it's mind boggling. The most referred company near us has been Scat pools. If anyone knows info on anyone else, please share that too :)

DONE with Facebook!

2011-06-27T10:20:00.000-05:00

I have deactivated before, but at this point I don't see me ever going back. I had become a facebook junkie. This was fueled in a huge way by the fact that I have an iphone; AND don't have a normal job to keep me off there. It's gossip central, and the best place to find out anything and everything; from divorces to new babies, to cars for sale and who's got kidney stones. Very often you see TMI. The ease of lurking on there that comes from being an iphone user is addictive. You find yourself scrolling and reading all day long, whenever you have a minute. You find yourself talking to people you'd never talk to in the real world, just because it's easy. At this point, I hate giving up a couple of aspects related to facebook; keeping people posted on Daniel's medical condition, and I also will lose the ability to advertise my business there. Regardless, I have to focus on people that actually LIVE in my house, instead of those that exist on facebook. I haven't had my phone on me any this weekend. I actually left it at home and went to Pine Bluff. Being 50 miles from my phone hasn't happened in YEARS. I am proud to say I didn't miss it. Doing some prioritizing around here and think it's the best thing for me. So, if you call or text, it may be a bit before I answer, because I no longer have my phone shoved in my back pocket anymore, and it's exactly what I have to do for myself and my family.

One more thing

2011-04-01T18:02:00.001-05:00

This blog needs a major update and overhaul.

Interested parties contact me.

new stuff!

2011-04-01T16:11:00.000-05:00

So.. hopefully as I learn to master a mac, I will be back in the blogging world soon. It will hopefully make my life lots easier in the computer aspect, and I can now edit from the comfort of my recliner instead of being alienated to the office! I also bought Lightroom, and Aperture. So, three major changes for me, and being that I am a creature of habit.. this is a BIG deal to me. I am watching tutorials when I can, and trying to master this learning curve. But. It's greek to me.

Channing

2011-03-22T23:17:00.000-05:00

Nickolas

2011-02-20T18:31:00.000-06:00

Cutest Kids!

2011-02-18T15:55:00.002-06:00

Daddy's Boy

2011-02-09T13:37:00.001-06:00

Few recent shots

2010-12-16T09:41:00.000-06:00

Selling our red couch!

2010-12-06T10:28:00.000-06:00

Preview of the Echols Family

2010-12-04T10:26:00.000-06:00

The Young's

2010-11-15T10:59:00.000-06:00

Twins!

2010-11-14T18:15:00.000-06:00

BUSY weekend.

2010-11-07T17:44:00.000-06:00

Halley & Maddie

2010-11-02T18:12:00.000-05:00

The Vail family

2010-10-31T17:22:00.003-05:00

my girls

2010-10-29T18:33:00.000-05:00

The Lawson's

2010-10-28T17:55:00.000-05:00

Getting started on editing yesterday's shoots

2010-10-22T08:16:00.000-05:00

Recent sessions

2010-10-17T19:12:00.000-05:00

Here are a few from my senior session with Tyler Ashcraft. She is a senior at Warren High School and is the daughter of Kevin & Shelly Ashcraft.

This was taken beside Mrs. Melba's house :)

Yes, that is the Saline, and YES, she is COLD.

Here are a couple from my shoot with the Ross family. Jade won a free session and wall portrait at the bingo fundraiser I helped with for Annika Nichols. I was glad it went to a great customer of mine!

The Maxwell Grandbabies

2010-10-13T19:29:00.000-05:00

Addie Beth, Sarah, and Rachel

A few shots from what I've been up to

2010-10-07T07:59:00.000-05:00

Jax's birthday shoot!

2010-09-20T11:41:00.000-05:00

Karsyn's soccer game - first time playing offense

2010-09-14T20:39:00.000-05:00

She's actually on the orange and black team; the Tigers. Her jersey hasn't come in yet. Wearing the colors of the opposing team is kinda odd I guess... but we didn't know :)

FALL PHOTOS FOR DAYCARES

2010-09-07T16:45:00.002-05:00

Daycare Photos

2010-09-07T16:44:00.002-05:00

A few from Sunday's shoots; trying to catch up! This isn't all from today but here's a peek!

2010-09-05T19:55:00.000-05:00

a few from this week!

2010-08-27T12:42:00.000-05:00

Allie

2010-08-23T17:19:00.000-05:00

My girls

2010-08-14T16:42:00.000-05:00

What I've been up to

2010-08-04T17:05:00.000-05:00

Everytime I say I am going to be back in the blogosphere, I always end up straying back to facebook. Rosjuane and I have been working hard on getting together some studio specials. We will be working on site at Haute Tots in Warren and at Giggles and Grins in Monticello, very soon! We have our first special at G&G this Saturday; which is a beach scene. More info to be posted later on our fall and Christmas sessions.

For now, this is what I've been doing...

I have been really busy these last two weeks! Thanks for all the referrals!

my daughter

2010-07-15T22:25:00.000-05:00

is enjoying playing with the studio lights.

She took this of me today. I think she might be hooked on photography already.

Brooke & Adam

2010-07-10T20:13:00.000-05:00

We shot a wedding today for Brooke Thurman & Adam Clemons. It was held at the Methodist Church. The rain didn't begin until after the bride arrived, so that was great. She had a wonderful ceremony and as you can see from all the genuine smiles, completely enjoyed her day.

There will be a more thourough post on http://www.ssweddings.com/ soon :)

Rosjuane, working hard at being the reflector holder since we forgot the stand...

And how much more Arkansas does it get to have an uncle put in his "bubba teeth" for photos?? We had a blast with this group!

The Anniversary Party

2010-05-30T21:22:00.000-05:00

Saturday we celebrated my aunt and uncle's 50th wedding annniversary. There were over 150 there, & although it was elbow to elbow in the fellowship hall, it was a great success. Due to a flight delay, their son in law and two grandkids were quite late, and that was no fun, but they made it to the end of things and then enjoyed supper together in Monticello where they also celebrated two graduations; Kyle's from high school and Graham's from college. All in all, I think it was a super blessed day for them and I couldn't be happier for them both.

Here are a few photos from througout the day.

Beautiful day, not nearly as hot as some of the recent days have been.

Their original cake topper was used, and magnolia accents were used just like in their wedding ceremony.

Cake cutting, and yep, he did act like he was going to lick the knife :)

All because two people fell in love...

If this doesn't make you smile, nothing will. CONGRATS once again, I love you both very much!

Baseball

2010-05-23T19:03:00.000-05:00

The above pic is my nephew, Stratton. He's turned into an amazing pitcher! I see All Stars in his future :)

I haven't been at the complex as much this season as I normally am. With my dad being sick, my life has gotten pretty fast paced and I seem to always have something on my plate. We go back to the VA Tuesday and hopefully he will get a good report. I'll be posting more sports photos soon, so check back.

Gavin Jacobs

2010-05-23T18:57:00.000-05:00

Gavin is the son of Dr. Robert Jacobs and his wife, Tonya Jacobs. Gavin's daddy is the dr that cared for my daddy in the ER, and Tonya recently went into business with my friend, Tiffany, doing party planning. (Small world, huh!)

Gavin is turning 2 soon, and these are his 2 year pics.

Allissa

2010-05-23T18:48:00.000-05:00

Allissa Claire Bodiford :) Allie makes me smile. I think I make her smile, too.

My pageant beauty's latest photogenic pic is below.

Sunday

2010-05-16T19:17:00.000-05:00

After a full 7 days of one or the other kid throwing up, we have finally gotten rid of the stomach virus, I HOPE! We went out on the 4 wheelers a little while, and retrieved some deer stands at Rock Springs and in Rye. It was overcast and kinda dreary but not muggy so that was a nice change.

I have some pics of a 2 year old cutie that I plan to blog tomorrow, so check back for a peak of Gavin Jacob's photos. (For those that are local, or follow my blog, Gav's dad was my dad's ER dr that did such a great job taking care of him :)

Hope everyone has a blessed week! We have a ballgame tomorrow night & although I have taken nine million photos, I haven't blogged any or gotten the sports ones on my site so I have got to get in gear!

WHEW! Is it the weekend yet?

2010-05-11T16:17:00.000-05:00

Both kids have been sick, and I am wondering if it's ever going to end! Random bouts of vomiting, blech! But anyway, we are back on course I hope, and J has a music program at school tonight. Unlike a lot of parents I actually like these programs :) They are NOT K's thing, but J sucks up the spotlight so it's actually pretty fun.
Daddy is doing pretty well, and Drew Memorial Home Health has done a great job on his home care. We go back at the end of this month to the VA & hopefully he will continue to make progress.
Softball season is going well, with our team only losing one for the season. We had 4 players out that night and it showed! Regardless it's been fun and the weather has been great so we cannot complain. I have a photo session tomorrow with a gorgeous little 2 year old boy with a headfull of curls and I can't wait to get my camera after him. I love babies and their sporadic actions make my job fun. I will post some tomorrow if his mom allows :)

more.

2010-05-04T20:29:00.000-05:00

We go back to the VA in the morning. I hope that we get some more information on what the game plan is. People ask me daily how he is, and I do appreciate the concern, there are just no cut and dried answers to give. Now that things have slowed up, and he's been home a little over a week, I think my mind and my body have slowed down and started to swallow and digest just exactly what a tornado we have all been in. I am so very blessed with great people in my life. But, that being said, I can be a very very unapproachable person when it comes to "real" stuff. I can rattle all day about things of no substance, but when it comes to my father, and his illness, there are very very few things that I benefit from hearing. There are some people that I just downright do NOT listen to. Timing is everything. Delivery is of great importance. Below is an excerpt of a message I got during my dad's hospitalization. Don't ask where it came from, because I won't tell.

Shelley..Stay with me here...think deeply about what I am saying..I assure you it is true.....YOU have been GIVEN a privilage to walk the last miles with your DAD...YES>>>Privilage...you are there to support and love and help him in what ever way you can...just as he has done for you all those years...HE does not HAVE to walk the last miles alone....and it is a Privilage for you to GET TO BE THERE...not a burden....

Well. Just so you know, not just anyone could say that to me and actually get through to me. But the person speaking has nothing but love for me, and there was a lot more to that message that is too personal to share, but I can say, it arrived at a great time. As I said, timing is everything. God threw that at me through this person. Just as I think God threw us our favorite nurse, Tony. He knew it had to be the right man to deliver it, or I would've been shut off to it, regardless of it's value. If Tony hadn't been huge, a big ol' gentle giant, I wouldn't have paid attention. I have, over time, become a great judge of character. My daddy's illness just sharpened that skill. I haven't talked to anyone about the moment of being the only one present at they took my daddy into surgery. A surgery that no one thought he'd make it through. I melted into the floor after they wheeled him away. Just slid down the wall, into the floor and sat there. There were no more tears left. Just stunned silence and wondering, did I just see my daddy for the last time? And then my phone goes off with just the right message; the one above, on it. Thank you, nameless person, for jarring me back to reality. Because I can say this, as Dr Parnell took him away, and said to me; "it's lengthy, it's risky, so say what you need to to him," I honestly didn't have anything exceptional to say. I didn't have some apology to make, or some question to ask. We were fine. Still are. I am his greatest advocate, other than my mom and brother. I am good at that. I am good at asking too many questions. I am good at wanting too much information. I know there is a happy medium, but I don't gauge that too well. I'm good at saying his life exists because God wants him here. I can give credit where it is due.

So, I will post tomorrow, and update what is going on at this point. It's hard, it's scary, and I hate every single aspect of cancer. But it can't take away my memories, and it cannot change his soul.

50th Anniversary

2010-05-02T18:20:00.000-05:00

A 50th Wedding Anniversary reception honoring James and Wanda Reaves of Wilmar will be held on Saturday, May 29, 2010 .The celebration will be held at Wilmar Baptist Church on Hwy. 278W between the hours of 2:00 and 4:00 P.M. The couple was married on June 10, 1960 by Rev. R. C. Creed. Theirs was the second wedding to be performed in the present church. The event is being hosted by their two children, Keith Reaves and Rhonda Kohnen. The couple has four grandchildren; Graham & Ellen Reaves, and Clay & Kyle Kohnen. All friends and relatives are invited to attend and they request no gifts please.

for my non local blog readers, this is my mom's sister, who is married to my daddy's brother :) I think being married 50 years is an amazing accomplishment and I am very excited for them and hope this celebration is a great success!

helllllllloooooooooooooo

2010-05-02T16:51:00.000-05:00

is there anybody out there?

I stayed out of the blog world for a bit, sucked in by facebook, and now I wonder how many of my readers gave up on me..

going through my flickr account....random old pics

2010-05-01T11:16:00.000-05:00

Jagger's birthday

Jagger 7 months

Kennedie

Garret

Jadyn

Jackson's birthday

Kennedie

Kadence

2010 Lady Billies

2010-05-01T10:52:00.001-05:00

~ catch up ~

2010-04-30T09:55:00.000-05:00

Sunday we went to the Mud Races and had a really good time, except for the fact that I got sick as a dog halfway through. Ben grilled and the weather was great. There were two major roll overs, and I got pics of the first one, which is "Back In Black." (Jack nor his rider were injured, and to those that don't attend the races, they have on 5 point harnesses & helmets.) I think that sealed the deal that I won't be a rider every again! They all roll sometimes; it's just the nature of the beast, but these flips were rough.

Karsyn finished up her gymnastics season with Ms Mary. She has really enjoyed going to Kim's Dance Factory. She is CLUMSY as can be, but loves it, so whatever.

As usual I have spent a lot of time with Dana and the boys. We are really ready for summer time and 4 wheelers and swimming. Jagger also got a mohawk recently that I haven't shared. It fits his personality perfectly.

Dirty faces and shirts and signs of happy kids, incase you didn't know. Dana really does put them to bed clean, I swear. (I'm sure Brandy Files didn't notice the dirt at all, did ya Brandy?)

Ben got a visit from his oldest child yesterday, and I got the opportunity to take a few pics of his sweet grandbaby. He is so proud of her :)

I'm supposed to play in a softball tourney tomorrow for Charity water, but I am not sure the rain is going to let that happen... We'll see.. Happy weekend!

the visitor

2010-04-26T09:05:00.000-05:00

This swan showed up at my brother and sister in law's house several days ago. As you can see, it seems to be enjoying the stay!

interesting link

2010-04-24T15:13:00.000-05:00

Ran up on this.

We are HOME!

2010-04-24T09:26:00.000-05:00

My daddy is finally home! It took nearly 4 weeks at the VA to accomplish this amazing feat, but he is there. He goes back in approximately 2 weeks. I have no idea what the chemo plan is, and wouldn't even want to bring it up at this point! My plan for months has been to be in Rogers this morning, for another Race for the Cure. Between the weather, my dad's discharge, and a few other issues, it just wasn't possible. Rosjuane and I had planned to go and support Kristina's team, but going to Little Rock over twenty times has depleted the extra funds so that contributed to the 'reasons why we are staying home' list as well. I really hated to miss out on this, because the last race we did, in October, was one that Kristina couldn't attend, so this was going to be the first time that we got to walk with our very own survivor. I see it says on her facebook that it's storming there this morning :( Yuck!

So, once it's established that I know I can't make the trip to Rogers, I talk to my friend Juana and she tells me all about taking part in the local Relay for Life. I got a suprise from her after that. She gets me a relay shirt, and has "In Honor of My Daddy, Robert Reaves" on one sleeve, and on the other, it has "In Memory of John Schaffner" which is her daddy's name.

Juana is that friend that is always thinking "what can I do for you" and it shows. This was really special to me, and I love it. Because of the storms here, they moved it inside at Drew Central. We arrived at 6, and although it was MUGGY and STICKY and HOT in there, it was a great atmosphere. There were a lot of familiar faces in the Survivor walk. There were lots of giggles and lots of smiles; some of the teams and their themes were absolutely hilarious. I also got to walk several laps with Ashton and Kaylee Arnold, which made my night. I love both of them but Ashton is one of my little favorite kiddos that I accidentally pick out. I don't know why that happens, but it does. They gave Juana and I an excuse to be even louder and sillier so that was awesome. There were many people there that did a lot of hard work to make the event a success and I think they did great.

I hope today is a nice and calm day. My kids are upstairs building tents from blankets, and I am about to start on some laundry! Before I close this rambling post, I want to add, if it was not for my friend Cara Abbott, my daddy would not be at home. They *VA* could not get the local Home Health care set up until Monday, so that was going to delay his discharge by FORTY EIGHT more unecessary hours at the hospital! Cara works for hospice and has worked in home health for a while, so she is going to take care of his needs all weekend, therefore he got to go home. This is SUCH a blessing. If you see Cara, give her a huge hug and tell her how awesome that was, because it is wonderful for us. (and no he's not on hospice, if that was confusing!)

Daddy

2010-04-22T09:48:00.000-05:00

I really don't know where to even begin on this. We have had such an outpour of prayers and help through all this, I know that trying to name names would only mean that I'd leave someone out. Friends and family have truly stepped up to the plate and gone above and beyond; and for that, there can never be enough thank yous' said. He is currently doing pretty well, and it looks like he may be able to come home in a few days, with the assistance of home health care. He's never lost sight of reality, but has also never been pessismistic. He's told us through every day of these last 4 weeks that he's ok, he WILL come home, and he WILL get through this. At times, the dr's did not agree. It's been the most emotional rollercoaster I think I have ever been on, even surpassing the events from my own children in the nicu. This has been an hour to hour, day to day waiting game, for weeks. He underwent major surgery that has in fact corrected some of the issues. He does still have cancer; the surgery did not effect that, as the tumor itself remains inoperable.

There are times that my faith has waivered. I can admit that fault openly. I spent HOURS begging God to please please DO SOMETHING. Make this better, Please just make it better. I spoke to very few people throughout this ordeal. My own best friend pointed out that she'd never seen or heard me cry prior to this. I don't really know why I am that way.. but I am. Until this. This is my weakness. You take away my daddy, my strength, and I crumble like any other mortal. But due to my kids being so harshly effected by this stuff, I had to keep up a solid front, and I also had to be able to drive 200 miles a day without falling apart. That is quite a challenge.. I've been mad as hell at times. Ready to absolutely explode. And somehow God throws someone on my path that diffuses the bomb.. I've had a hard time listening to anyone say they know how I feel. There are few people in my circle of friends that can say that. But; the ones that can truly say that, have helped me immensely, and I hope I have sufficiently thanked those friends.

My dad is number 11 of 12 siblings. (all 'real' siblings, no step, no half) and cancer has affected the majority of them. Cancer is just a terrible, harsh reality for us, and we have to keep hammering on, and doing what we can to support him. It took praying for God's will to be done, and actually MEANING it, in order to see him improve. It took me quite some time to honestly be able to pray that prayer. My dad told my brother that sometimes life is good, and sometimes it's bad, and he basically let us know he was comfortable with whatever happened so to 'keep it light' around him. This mean no bawling and being sad. This was HARD. But we have done it, 98% of the time. His faith has kept him strong; therefore it kept us stronger too.

As you can see, my dad has always given credit where it's due, and I couldn't have asked for a better man to raise me and to be there for me.

terrible blogger

2010-04-18T10:43:00.000-05:00

....after being a compulsive blogger for years, I somehow fell off the map. Attempted to jump back in, and failed miserably.

But anyway, I have had an excuse lately. My dad has been in the VA in Little Rock for 3 weeks. I don't have time to elaborate, but I did want to thank everyone for all their prayers. He is supposed to be moving from ICU to a normal room today, and I will update later.

Brittney's Senior Pics

2010-03-26T21:41:00.000-05:00

Party Planning in Monticello!

2010-03-07T17:18:00.000-06:00

The above photo is an "inspiration board" that Tiffany created. The point of one of these is simple; Do you want to be the mom that has the best birthday parties, or throws the best showers, but hasn't got one creative bone in your body; or you aren't good at "googling?" (Or how about this, are you the person that IS creative, but simply doesn't have the time to brainstorm 50 ways to decorate in your child's favorite theme?) Inspiration boards may be for you then! For an extremely minimal fee, Tiffany will show you the way to have a great party without investing every extra minute in your day preparing for it. Tiffany has always had an interest in party planning along with her custom themed cakes, but has just recently begun to "push" this a bit. Although I can't answer questions on specifics of what it may cost if you were to prefer that she create invitations and etc, I CAN show you how to contact her and ask :) Go here & you can find her contact info.

I thought this was a good time to share an example of her "work," which also happens to be her son's party. Matthew wanted a Mario party, and that is exactly what he got!

Here are the little marios, complete with moustaches :)

His invitation

Cake by Tiffany Barnard (if you save or repost PLEASE be respectful and give her credit)

star dishes containing the ice cream goodies

bottle cap necklaces in the Mario theme for the kids, with princess ones for the little ladies

faux wii remotes full of candy were part of the party favors

custom lollipps with thank you stickers from Matt

"thanks for playing" treat bags that they filled with candy; and the large box was the Mario Bingo prize

Mario gold coins were the markers in bingo
And here is our other bingo winner, with his Mario water bottle prize. Please give Tiffany a call for your next party! You won't be disappointed. These kids sure weren't~

Polar Bear Plunge!

2010-02-18T16:08:00.002-06:00

Untitled from Jason Caldwell on Vimeo.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS POLAR BEAR PLUNGE! More pics at http://www.shelleysmithphotography.com/

March of Dimes ~ Reagan's Team

2010-02-07T17:29:00.000-06:00

Please check out the above link to donate to Holly Williams' team she has established in her daughter's name. Reagan Brooke Williams was born at 29 weeks; which is 11 weeks early. This is also the point that my own daughter, Jordan was born at. My youngest was a 31 weeker, which is 9 weeks premature. March of Dimes is an amazing organization that helps ALL babies, not just preemies. If you'd like to donate to this cause, it would be greatly appreciated.

Pray for Sheila Schaffner

2010-02-01T08:46:00.000-06:00

Please go here and look at my friend's mom's new blog. She is currently on a flight that's taking her to Haiti! She is a nurse that is going to be doing mission work as well.

She's a mom to five and a grandma to ten! Please keep her in your prayers as she spreads the word.

SS Weddings 2010

2010-01-12T09:40:00.000-06:00

As Rosjuane and I are preparing for weddings of 2010, we are looking into doing some advertising, which we have previously not done. Relying on word-of-mouth advertising has worked well in the past, but now that the photography market is oversaturated with so called photographers, we feel we need to showcase our work a little more, & let potential clients 'see' the difference. It honestly does bother us to see brides accept less than adequate work simply because someone is "cheaper" and has a "good camera." It's one of the biggest days of your life, so it's probably not the best time to cut too many corners when it comes to documenting your day!

We are always open to suggestions and constructive criticism of any kind. We try to consistently grow to meet the needs of our brides, and your input is very valuable.

Please email us at ss weddings & tell us what you'd like to see us offer in our packages.

Our pricing, which includes 2 photographers, can be accessed here. After looking that over, we prefer to actually speak to potential clients on the phone in order to learn more about them, so please give us a call.

We feel our pricing is extremely competitive for our area, and extremely cheap for central and North Arkansas weddings!

Our print pricing is very affordable for wedding galleries; with 4x6's costing less than $1 each. This means any print credits you purchase with your package goes a long way!

SS Weddings is also available for engagements and bridals, and we strive to make those reflect your personality.

We hope to make 2010 a very successful year, and would love to hear how you think we

can make that possible, so give us a call. We also have a fan page on Facebook; and that link is available here.

Barnes/Morgan Wedding ~ mini preview

2010-01-10T13:57:00.000-06:00

Rosjuane and I shot a wedding last night at First Baptist Church here in town. It was a candlelight ceremony, for Niki Morgan & Richard Barnes. (A big thank you to Mike Pennington for the referral!)

Here's a shot of Rosjuane waiting with Mr. Richard for the big "first glance" moment before we started on the group shots. I think we were as anxious as he was.

And here he is, about to finally see his bride :)

Mr. & Mrs. Richard Barnes

The bride & her parents; & children

CONGRATULATIONS, Mr. & Mrs. Barnes! More photos will be at www.ssweddings within a few days :)

Top 9 of 09 Sports

2010-01-07T10:42:00.000-06:00

Some of my personal favs from 2009. Because I didn't blog nearly as much as I have in the past few years, there's not as many already in my flickr as usual. I plan to do better in 2010!

Top 9 of 09

2010-01-07T10:20:00.000-06:00

going to have to do a top 9 from baseball/softball next :)

my house is too quiet. well... till 3:30 it is.

2010-01-06T11:39:00.000-06:00

I wish someone would invent something to replace hangers. Wherever I go... my closet, my laundry room, back seat of my car... they lie in wait, prepared to leap off the rack and attack me without warning, or trip me in the floor. The girls are gone, and I am left with nothing but a ton of laundry while they are at school. It's overwhelming. It's also my own fault.. but as my family was home from school and work for the holidays, I did absolutely nothing productive. We talked and giggled and watched cheesy movies. We played video games, and ate pizza. It was good. I just have to deal with the aftermath of those actions now. I officially spent my tenth (married) Christmas with my husband. We have never been big "gift" people, and I can honestly say I think he probably spent less this year than he ever has, and I liked it better than anything I have ever received. I'm a sentimental kinda girl, and I loved my card. I am NOT a crying kinda girl, but I cried. As we all face battles in our daily lives, chaos amongst friends, illnesses, financial woes; I do have a lot of peace in having a good husband that comes home to me at the end of the day. One of my favorite bible verses makes me think about him: “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows” (James 1:17). One thing is for sure, Michael doesn't change. He has the WORST memory of any man you have ever seen. But he doesn't change. I know when I tell him something, that I will 100% have to tell him again. But, at least I know those things aren't stuff like "No, you aren't going to the bar tonight" or "YES, YOU DO have to watch your kids tomorrow" because luckily, my battles around here are pretty trivial compared to most peoples issues. Sometimes I think he is 100% deaf when it comes to any noise created by children.

My children don’t walk; they run. They don’t talk; they yell. They don’t laugh; they scream. And they don’t sit calmly on the couch. Instead, they wallow around like pigs in the mud, constantly flipping over and recovering themselves with blankets. He is immune to it.

No part of the house is off-limits. Nothing is done silently. Definately NOT stair climbing..stomp stomp..There is no escape. And all the peace and quiet is sucked out of every room.

I have to choose: will I let the chaos suck out my inner peace? My husband doesn't. Ever. I don't get it. I soooo wish to be that person with endless patience.

I’ve heard someone describe a mom’s job as that of a thermostat. Not a thermometer, which just displays the temperature of a room. Because a thermostat connects to the power source, it can actually regulate the room’s temperature. I kinda like that analogy. As Mom, I can tell that my family’s mood is very often set by mine. That means my mood had better be influenced by something outside of the family. Otherwise, we all get in an infinite loop of craziness. This reminds me that I need a source of peace, not just when the kids are making me crazy. But especially when they are. As a Christian mom, I believe that I am only capable of being a thermostat when I cling to God as my source of peace. On my own, I am ultimately a thermometer. And I make a really bad thermometer...

I plan to make 2010's new year's resolution be nothing but this:
A calmer, happier household for my kids... less yelling... more hugging. I will try harder to not be annoyed with the nine million pieces of cut up paper in the playroom...I will try harder to not be annoyed when they rumble down the stairs to show me what they have made. I will not let outside drama or chaos influence my attitude with my babies. We have a lot to be thankful for at my house; and it is time to appreciate it.

Monticello Live

2010-01-04T14:04:00.002-06:00

Here's their pic...

Jordan's birthday party

2010-01-02T21:30:00.000-06:00

We had Jordan's 10th birthday party today at the bowling alley. We had a blast!

Afterwards we went over to the Hines' house to grill and watch the Hogs play. I love this picture of the 4 of them, because it is very real. It's wild over there, but it's fun. We had about 20 or so there, and had chicken, ribs, pork chops, grilled corn, beans, and more. MMMMM. No diets going on over there. Ben has lasted two days not smoking though!

We enjoyed our day, and are glad it all went smoothly.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2010-01-01T18:48:00.000-06:00

We celebrated our new year with Dana and Ben. Well. We STARTED it anyway. We actually didn't last til midnight. We had dinner at Cowboys, and went back to the Hines' house for a wild night of.... playing the wii. Wii dance is absolutely hilarious. Tomorrow we have Jordan's 10th birthday party, at the bowling alley. It's really small scale, and Razorback themed. Afterwards we are going back to the Hines' house to grill and watch the hogs game. We have a pretty simple life. But we love it.

As for the locked blog, I have some privacy concerns with my kids. If that subsides, I may unlock it. If you know if anyone who reads it that is "locked out" please have them email me and I will add them. Hope everyone had a great first day of 2010!

Locked.

2009-12-31T13:25:00.000-06:00

My blog will be locked starting in 2010. If you aren't on my readers list, please email me at shelley23@gmail.com to be added.
I will be locking it down in a few hours.

the only pic I have of the Santa loot

2009-12-30T10:41:00.001-06:00

my Christmas

2009-12-28T12:05:00.002-06:00

Well. To say it started off badly is quite the understatement. My husband got the call on the morning of Dec 23rd letting him know that his best friend, Michael Taylor, had been murdered. It was an act of violence caused by his wife, who shot him twice. It's been a very hard situation for my husband, and although he has tried hard to keep his game face on for everyone, I know how broken he really is. Please pray for Mike Taylor's family; especially the three daughters he left behind. We will be leaving for Memphis soon, so also pray that we have a safe trip.
Now that I have that part out of the way, here's the rest of the holiday story for me:

Michael came home at lunch on Christmas eve. We watched Jerry Maguire and Blake and I worked on her Michael's Christmas gift. (They elected to not spend money, but to instead "make" something or do something personal) We had a good time, and both the Burns' were happy with the other person's efforts. I loved it :)

We had pizza and drug out the scrapbook supplies and got to work. Afterwards I had Michael go ahead and open his gift, which was a wii.

He is very much a gamer so he liked it a lot. I also got him a hunting game which he is already obsessed with... I knew better than to buy this thing, dangit. My gift was a really fun suprise. Well. Part of it was. The rest I kinda knew about... but anyway, he brought me in a massive box to open. Inside was three individually wrapped things.. One was a stuffed weenie dog. (I always say I want another weenie dog!).. one was my favorite candy (runts and nerds) and the last was a pair of earrings inside a KFC Chicken bucket... (That's where I met him.) It also had a perfect card with it. It's pretty much a given that he will never top that. He also got me a really cute dress and some black uggs. I love everything I got.
I didn't take a camera to Michael's side's get together, and I didn't take it to Mrs. Melba's either. Not sure why I did that! Kennedie and Kadie weren't there long, but I did get a big ol' hug from Kenn at the door, telling me all about her "fancy" boots. I love her :) She's my favorite.. shhh, don't tell.

I didn't upload any pics from Christmas morning yet. This one is from my mom's house. The girls got a lot of art supplies, stuffed animals, and ds games. (They got ds's from Santa) They "got" the least ammount of gifts they have ever receieved at Christmas time this year; we didn't have the cash to do a ton of Santa, & we didn't exchange on Michael's side this year. I was pretty concerned about that, but the girls didn't seem to mind at all, and I was glad. They both got more Uggs and think they are something else in them. I know some people think it's crazy but it's just something I don't mind doing. Some people spend a ton on toys; my kids prefer stuff like that.

I'm not sure who likes Jordan's Mario Bros ds game better, her, or her daddy.

Sarah sang us her songs from her church Christmas program. She was a little under the weather but didn't let it slow her down. I love that she is such an outgoing little kid!

Karsyn's stuffed animals were actually puppets, and as you can see she enjoyed playing with them with my brother. She and Sarah videod some skits, too. I'm glad they play together so well.
It was a really good Christmas overall; my daddy is feeling pretty well (he has some kinda of cold-ish stuff) and we all got to see one another. Can't really ask for more, can I?

~Changes~

2009-12-22T16:14:00.001-06:00

We are getting www.ssweddings.com revamped in January 2010! We are so excited! More details soon....

wedding in McGehee

2009-12-19T20:56:00.002-06:00

Rosjuane and I shot a wedding in McGehee today. She's our first bride to ever wear a birdcage. Yep, that's what that veil thingy is called, and we love it. Her bridals are amazing, and will be included in the blog post about the wedding over at www.ssweddings.com in a day or two. Be sure to check them out!

One advantage to the way she and I shoot is the fact that we consistently cover two angles. She used a prime lens, and I use a zoom. We are aware of what the other will be doing, and are often directly accross the room from one another. Sometimes I just can't help but take her pic..

It was a lovely ceremony on a very brisk winter day, and we had a great time. Best wishes to Stephanie and Ike!

It's HEEEEEERE!

2009-12-14T16:14:00.003-06:00

I think most people that follow my blog, or my facebook, know that I was a team captain for "Fight like a Girl" which was part of race for the cure 2009. I formed this team to support my good friend Kristina's battle against breast cancer. This team was mostly compiled of old high school friends of hers. She also had a second time, "Girl Power" that had a lot of local Walmart employees join in her name. All in all, the two teams raised over three grand. Wow. I was so proud of all these ladies I can't put it into words.

Due to the fact that Kristina became seriously ill and was hospitalized with pnuemonia the week of the race, her daughters walked with me. Although this is an experience I am very proud to be able to say I was a part of, it was very very bittersweet to be the one holding her 4 year old's hand when I wanted so badly for her to be there herself. I also "escorted" 13 year old Lauren, her oldest.

We had a blast. I am sure most are thinking...hmm.. this is old news. This was in October. Well, for the top fundraisers, they send out prizes. I got mine today, and just had to share. I was able, with the help of awesome friends, to raise over 1800 on my personal page. Because of that, I got some good prizes :)

This is a picture of the bride depicted in my art print I got as one of my prizes. I added that for my non Arkansas readers, haha!

I also got Because I care cooler and a tshirt, plus a chickfilet family pack. All in all, some pretty cool stuff!

I'm thinking of getting back into

2009-12-13T17:38:00.002-06:00

consistent blogging.
Anyone still out here?

I used to blog AT LEAST once a day. I had a lot of faithful readers. I became a facebooker, and fell off the blog map.

I think I'm back...

looking back

2009-12-12T18:53:00.003-06:00

at my new years resolutions for 2009.

and... the verdict is...

well... I still have long hair. I have cut three inches at one point, and 2.5 at another, and other than that, only "trims." I don't yell at my kids as much.. probably because they are growing up and don't "do" as much that makes me crazy. I definitely didn't tan as much as I wanted to. This is hugely due to the fact that my doing it makes my father crazy. (skin cancer reasons) We did find an amazing church to attend, with great people. Due to reasons I can't explain, we haven't been in a while. I guess we are still struggling to "click" as well as we used to at Journey. So far, that hasn't totally happened, but it's 100% NOT because of anything anyone has or hasn't done. Once you get used to informal worship, and non traditional church, it's hard to go back to typical styles.
Annoying people still annoy me. I have not mastered ignoring them. Not sure I really tried very much.
I am definitely more picky about the photography jobs I take on. I have loved shooting sports this summer, from mud races to baseball. Rosjuane and I are very blessed in our wedding business as well although we aren't always up to date on that blog!
I have gotten a GREAT babysitter, and we call her fairly often. We are still very much a family oriented household of four that does pretty much everything together, but it's great to be able to call Calie when I need someone.
Wonder what I will put on the ol New Year's Resolution list this year....

my weekend

2009-11-29T18:03:00.003-06:00

Michael and I went to north Arkansas this weekend, to Rogers. Pig Trail Harley Davidson hosted this year's Arkansas State armwrestling tournament. It is an amazing bike dealership, with super nice employees and managers. I hope they have it there again next year.

Armwrestling is actually a very family oriented sport. We heard "GOOOO DADDY" way more than once. I didn't take my kids to this one because we were taking the weekend as a little getaway and to get some shopping done, but it sure is a nice thing to take part in, that is very competitive yet there's nothing said that's not ok for little ears. Ever.

I enjoy seeing all the guys improve over the years. Some of them have gotten extremely good.

Mike took 2nd place in right and left in the Super Heavy weight division. He has won it the last 4 years, so he wasn't too pleased with second... but he was beaten by a world class puller so there's no shame in that!

Michael was graciously sponsored by Randy Hawkins of Starko, and by Ryburn Automotive Superstore, and we greatly appreciate them for doing so.

Tiffany & Cody

2009-10-19T08:46:00.003-05:00

After finishing up at Race for the Cure (my next post will have pics from that) Rosjuane and I shot a wedding at Marlsgate Plantation in Scott, Arkansas. It was brisk out to say the least, but it was still a very pretty day.

I love that we have two angles of this photo. She actually wasn't aware that I took this one, because she was posing for Rosjuane, who took it at an aerial angle. There will be one from that view on http://www.ssweddings.com/ a little later on.

It's become our signature pose to ask the bridesmaids if they want a "jump" picture. As you can see, these were all game for it.

They arrived in a horse drawn carriage, and it was very fairy tale-ish :)

This is the groomsman that we were told had left early, BEFORE we were done with photos. We weren't too happy with him... and then he came driving around the side, door open, laughing at his handywork....

Rachel & Vance

2009-10-11T12:27:00.003-05:00

I thought this was an appropriate way to start this post, since he is in over 50% of the photos... This is Max; nephew of the bride. Max, as you can see, is incapable of not smiling. He grinned for four hours straight. And laughed. And hung out with Rosjuane and I. We loved us some Max. He has just "cut in" during the bride and groom's first dance in the above photo. Something tells me he knocks Vance out of the saddle a lot!

We travelled to Helena to shoot this wedding. We had no clue where we were going, but lucky us, we were escorted by the brother of the groom right up to their home, where the ceremony was held. Although the weather was chilly, it was still a very pretty day for an outside wedding, and our new couple was amazing to work with. I can safely say I have never seen a happier groom.
Her maid of honor was her sister; mother of Max. I love how many "moments" we were able to capture.

She said she was his favorite person. You think that may be true ;) ?

Vance is patiently waiting on his bride to walk up behind up... down the aisle on their deck.

(we didn't tell him to do that, he was "helping")

She is talking her mother into not crying!

We will have more on our preview post at www.ssweddings.com soon.

CONGRATS, Rachel and Vance!

Standings in the Race For the Cure Fund Raising

2009-10-02T14:17:00.002-05:00

Top Individual Fundraisers
Mary Taylor $4450.00
Kim Moore $3113.00
Ellen Kreth $1,930.00
Tambra Childres $1695.70
Sheila Standley $1240.00
Coco Dorsey $1,276.00
Sheila Standley $1,240.00
Ann Spriggs $1,100.00
Gail Russ $1,055.00
Shelley Smith $1,005.00
Melissa Harrod $1,000.00
Church
Park Hill Presbyterian - $2,003.00
Mt Holly Community Church - $1,591.00
Pink Warriors - $1,131.76
McArthur Church - $550.00
Aspiring Angels - $363.00
School
UAMS / Cancer Institute - $1,590.00
Little Rock School District - $766.00
UCA SNA - $440.00
Not Fallin' For the Boobie Trap - $425.00
UCA University Women - $418.00
Hospital
Team ACH - $1,149.26
Baptist Health - $670.00
St. Bernards Pink Warriors - $556.00
JRMC - $438.00
St.VincentHealth/RAPA - $270.00
Corporation
Fidelity - $3,979.35
Windstream Cares - $2,783.00
Northrop Grumman Pink Panthers - $1,238.00
Yarnells - $750.00
LogistiCare Pink Panthers - $396.00
Small Business
Baseline Pit Stop - $3,012.60
Betty's Believers - $691.00
Autumn Road Family Practice - $430.00
Tri-County Girls Race for the Cure - $366.45
Donita's Divas - $316.00
Financial/Investment
Stephens Inc. - $2,360.00
Arvest Bank - $1,091.00
Signature Million Dollar Diva'$ - $750.00
Simmons First - $404.00
BancorpSouth - $275.00
Community
Huntin' for the Cure - $8,884.00
Hot Pink Tomatoes - $6,900.00
Barbara's Beauties - $871.00
Deb's Diamondhead Divas - $695.00
All About Pink - $435.00
Government Agency
ASP Angels - $3,404.00
LRPD BLUE ANGELS - $2,130.45
Team Berry - $930.00
AHTD Hard Hats - $524.00
The Bookends - $243.00
Non Profit
SPP Power Puffs - $1,988.00
Fight Like A Girl - Kristina Thomas - $1,445.00
Team AFMC - $250.00
Hakuna ma-TA-TA's - $175.00
All About Labs Rescue - $166.00
Social Group/Organization
The Pink Pals - $3,063.00
Team Coco - Let's Go Nuts - $2,049.00
Hot Flashes - $1,410.00
Ashlee's Pink Posse - $1,220.00
Zephyrs - $875.00
Remember - It's MY RACE to win!

If you would like to help me try and be one of the top individual fund raisers, go here. This total also adds to our team total, and we are in SECOND PLACE!!!!!

Leading Little Hearts Home ~ a link to her page

2009-09-28T09:58:00.003-05:00

I read this certain blog a lot. It is VERY often a thought provoking place to go... And I will readily admit, I sometimes enjoy a little contraversy on certain subjects because I always LOVED debate class! This author is quite matter of fact on a subject that is very inflexible. That subject, is her relationship with Christ, and her parenting methods. I LOVE that. I love that she is open, and willing to say what she pleases, and does so tactfully.

I hope you will take a minute to go over and read this post. I think it hits home in small town Arkansas BIG TIME.

It begins with this quote... and it hope it makes you curious enough to go chase that link:

"Every family ought to be a little Church, consecrated to Christ and wholly influenced and governed by His rules. And family education and order are some of the chief means of grace. If these fail, all other means are like to prove ineffectual." ~Jonathan Edwards

Sneak Peak of Paige & Tim's big day

2009-09-28T09:33:00.003-05:00

Rosjuane and I travelled to Hot Springs this weekend to shoot a wedding at Garvan Gardens. Paige & Tim's ceremony was simple and classy and absolutely perfect. The glass chapel is amazing, and the surroundings at the garden are gorgeous.

The reception was held at a beautiful lakehouse, that had amazing decor. (The owner also owns an art gallery, so you can imagine!) The sleek style of decoration for the reception was extremely elegant.

The formal sit down dinner was held poolside. The weather was perfect.

More will be post over at www.ssweddings.com when Rosjuane gets hers uploaded, so check back!

CONGRATS to the new couple!

3rd Place

2009-09-23T20:14:00.002-05:00

Ok so I didn't win... But I am still very happy to have placed, especially since the first and second place winners have studios and I don't! Congrats to Gretchen (2nd) and Brandy (1st) for their achievements as well.

Thank you to everyone that voted for me. Sports are still my favorite thing to shoot, and I am glad I have been able to maintain my own style and remain pretty successful with my hobby!

HELP OUR TEAM REACH $500

2009-09-16T08:46:00.002-05:00

I am participating in the 16th annual Susan G. Komen Arkansas Race for the Cure® and I am asking for your help to reach my goal of raising $500 for Kristina's team. Komen for the Cure works hard to provide education, screening and treatment that save lives in our communities. Now is the time to help. Komen for the Cure needs your help. By providing funds to Komen for the Cure, you can be a part of their promise to end breast cancer forever.

Komen Race for the Cure details: Downtown Little Rock, Arkansas Saturday, October 17th 8:00 a.m.

Here is the link to our team page.

Every step puts us closer to a world without breast cancer. We are going to stomp breast cancer into oblivion. Thank you for supporting me! Donations are tax deductible.

sooooooo..... who the heck bought all those shirts!?!

2009-09-14T19:38:00.002-05:00

I have been swamped lately with Race for the Cure tshirts. It's been quite a large task, but I don't regret it at all.

I won't pretend that this list covers everyone. I know very well that it doesn't. Some people bought as many as four each; for friends, family, and co workers. Some of our shirt wearers are also in diapers... Some of our shirt wearers are men. One is a three year old little boy. We have a common thread we share; and in some cases, it's not Kristina. But we do all have admiration for her fight against this wretched disease. She has been inspiring, and I believe we can all say we feel like we are in this fight together. Aside from non-melanoma skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in women. Breast cancer is the number one cause of cancer death in Hispanic women. It is the second most common cause of cancer death in white, black, Asian/Pacific Islander, and American Indian/Alaska Native women. It effects us all. It does NOT define Kristina. When I think "who is Kristina" cancer doesn't come to mind. She is a mother. She is a child of The King. She is a daughter, and for me, she is one of the most valuable friends I have ever known. I will be glad when she can close this chapter; and when no one has to ask me ever again, "how's Kristina" because I know that very soon, Kristina will be JUST FINE. There were people that questioned a lot of the aspects of the shirts. There's nothing about them that is accidental. Kristina likes black. Pink is the signature breast cancer awareness color. She is very much a true fighter (I won't elaborate there :) therefore the gloves are very much "her" as well. Most people know I have a tattoo in honor of my father's battle against cancer, and more so, in honor of what a prayer led man he has been my entire life. I used the design of my tattoo on the front of her shirt because she is so prayer led as well. In the center of the "Jesus fish" there is a K. We draw K's on our hands on the days she has chemo to remind us to pray diligently throughout the day. I do this because I learned it from a friend of my dad's, Anissa Ross, who wears her Livestrong bracelet on my dad's chemo days. On the back, the gloves are suspended by another Jesus fish, and in the center, is my girl Kristina's name, written in a font as close to her signature as I could get. This signifies that she is surrounded by his love, and his power to heal, at all times. She is in the center of his grasp, and protected by his walls. He is what holds is all "up" in reality, and on the shirt. HE is her rock. I will never be able to truly express what it means to me that so many that do not know my friend have reached out and helped; knelt down and prayed; and offered up doing anything they could to help.

Kristina: You have not fought this fight in vain; you are truly heroic in the way you handle things, and you are nothing short of an excellent mother through it all.

I love you; and I can't guarantee much, but I can guarantee, I WILL BE THERE.

The official shirt list, which doesn't technically include everyone:
Dana Hines
Amy Chapman
Ashley Hawkins
Tammy Busch
Holly Rosegrant
Cara Pace
Beverly Davis
Leslie Cook
Tiffany Barnard
Tricia Harvey
Kim Welch
Autumn White
Rosjuane Stevens
Shelley Smith
Maury Draper
Jeanne Hipp
Lisa Freeman
Dana Aiken
Misti Atkins
Debra West
Tracie Doshier
Courtney Forrest
Tess Kilcrease
Lou Arnold
Mary Wood
Jamie Clark
Shana Grant
Mandy Morphis
Angela Hoover
Anissa Ross
Maxann Mizell
Holly Cox
Lindsey Mashburn
KT Morphis
Kristie Foster
Hayley Sledge
Jeremy Moore
Melanie Evans
Ben Higginbotham
Ben Daniel
Sarah Leonard
Kailyn Davis
Tonya Lane
Jenny Sipes
Brittany Adcock
Shae Kulbeth
Jamie Clark
Jennifer Forrest
Wendy Ray
Leonda Holtoff
Azurdee Andrade
Chad McGriff
Brandy Reaves
Andi Oltmann
Andrea Weaver
Monica Tippett
Ashlee Scott
Christy Johnson
Mandy Burton
Olivia Pace
Laura Ripley
Michael Burns
Jayme Lawson
Blake Burns
Robin Bond
Melissa Petty
Stephanie Bonsey
Bobby Wilkerson
Brandy Reaves
Stephanie Norris
Lindsay Hillyard
Mandy Rochelle
Pat Fleming
Shannon Fleming
Jade Barnes
Lynn Rice
Calie Murray
Becky Griffin
Charmin Skipper
Laurie Sivils
Meschelle Thompson
Debra Philley
Darren Rawls
Christy Hines
Melissa Chapman
Shana Wright
Ava Thomas
Ally Grace Thomas
Karen Donaldson
Lauren Weaver
Hannah Spandle
Maddie Spandle
Thomas Langston
Desiree Wooten
Katy Baldridge
Taylor Goodson
Hunter Mikles
Alyssa Baldridge
Crystal Martin
Laura Bullington
Barbara Weaver
Shannda Bailey
Laurie Baldridge

CUTE SHIRTS!!!

2009-09-14T08:21:00.003-05:00

I got a softball mom shirt at Grannie's Attic that I cannot wear anywhere without someone asking where it's from. Well.... now there are also football moms ones :) She also has makeup bags, purses, tote bags, kids stuff and T-shirts. I got Karsyn a backpack there that she loves. (And there's bath and body works items too!) Grannie's Attic is behind Save A Lot, and this booth is right by the front door.

Jordyn

2009-09-03T17:21:00.001-05:00

haven't proofed her session yet, but here are a couple of Jo's sr pics. I think the chevelle is looking like a camaro, how about you?

POW/MIA

2009-09-03T17:11:00.000-05:00

Dirt Track - Jimmy's win

2009-09-01T09:27:00.002-05:00

Our friend Jimmy Gibson took the win in his class Saturday night. I was really glad we were there to see it. He almost won it the weekend before, and spun out in the verrrrrry last of the last lap. It hurt all our feelings, haha! I really enjoy the racetrack a lot. It's hugely dirty and dusty, but it's also really fun.
leading car, #0, Ronnie Adcock

will be uploading more to my site in the next few days

Mud Racin'

2009-09-01T09:09:00.002-05:00

I went to the mud track Sunday afternoon. I have to admit I love it out there. I have lots of friends that race, and it makes for a good afternoon of hanging out. Dana and Ben grill, and we stay for hours.

Jody and his team secured the points win for the year in the stock class.

Now is when my daddy is going to have a stroke... cause I didn't tell... but that's me in the truck with Jody. (5 point harness and helmet, daddy) WHAT AN ADRENALINE RUSH. Can't be any worse than riding 4 wheelers with him when I was kid :) Hitting a the water running wide open is a CRAZY feeling.

More pics are uploading at www.shelleysmithphotography.com

Karsyn turned 8.

2009-08-28T16:43:00.004-05:00

This is it. The belated birthday post for my youngest child. I won't repeat all the info from last years' post, and here it is if you are interested in knowing how she came to be who she is. We celebrate my kids' birthdays with "outings" instead of parties. They prefer it that way, and so do I. Last year she took a friend ice skating and to Build a Bear. This year, she wanted to go to Magic Springs. Since we didn't do a normal family vacation this year like we usually do, I thought that was a good choice. We spent the night in Hot Springs, and had a blast at the amusement park and waterpark. My pig collector got a new nightlight that looks like a pig that she loves; and a TON of polly pocket stuff; but I will have to say, her favorite thing was her pig themed card from my aunt. She was happier with it than the money it contained. So now my kids are officially 8 & 9 years old. She is still my motormouth. She is still the loner type. She is still skeptical of people; but is the first to retaliate to take up for anyone being wronged. I love that kid.

More photogenic shoots

2009-08-28T10:17:00.002-05:00

Jessaca

Annelise

Jagger

Kailyn

Nora Claire

2009-08-28T10:13:00.001-05:00

Nora Claire Rodriguez is officially one year old!

The final edit.

2009-08-28T09:16:00.002-05:00

Here are the back and front final edits for Kristina's race for the cure shirts. It took quite a bit of tweaking to get it how we wanted it, but I am really pleased with the final design. No part of it is coincidental, or copied. The font on "Kristina" is as close to her signature as I could find. The Jesus fish has more importance than any ribbon ever well. The boxing gloves are because she is the strongest fighting willed woman I know. I would like to personally thank Ronnie and Brittany Adcock for co sponsoring this shirt with Rosjuane and I. Because of them, we were able to keep pricing for the shirts as minimal as possible; and all "leftover" money will be donated to Susan Komen Foundation in Kristina's name.

At this point, we have 103 shirts ordered. If you haven't gotten me your payment and you want one, please get with me asap. Only prepaid shirts will be included in the final order.

Thanks very much to your commitment to this cause; and to my very amazing friend, Kristina Levi Thomas.

SHIRT LIST UPDATE

2009-08-24T18:15:00.002-05:00

Kristina Thomas ~Survivor shirt ~
Mandy Rochelle
Mandy Morphis
Ashley Hawkins
Brittany Adcock
Stephanie Norris
Tammy Busch
Azurdee Andrade
Lisa Burks
Ashlee Scott
Holly Rosegrant
Lindsay Hillyard
Andi Oltmann
Jennifer Forrest
Leslie Cook
Tiffany Barnard -PAID
Leonda Holtoff
Shae Kulbeth
Autumn White
Jenny Sipes
Lauren Weaver
Rosjuane Stevens - PAID
Shelley Smith - PAID
Maury Draper
Kristie Foster
Shea Long
Alissa Hornaday
Ava Thomas
Jamie Clark
Jeanne Hipp
Misti Atkins
Jade Barnes
Tonya Lane
Debra West
Andrea Weaver
Laura Bullington
Leanne Burch
Sandra Ward
Christy Hines
Beth McNeese
Blake Burns
KT Morphis
Lisa Freeman
Dana Aiken

Laura Ripley
Jennifer Stark
Misti Atkins - PAID

If you ordered child shirts, I am sure I have that on the list as long as you see your name on here. There are a few that I still need to know your sizes, and if you told me already, forgive me for deleting your text/email/fb message & please tell me again. (Shea, Alissa, Maury, Laura R and Laura B, I know I need all your sizes)

Shirts are $10

Shipping is $6 if you will need to have it shipped to you.

ALL ORDERS MUST BE PREPAID TO ME BY NEXT MONDAY IN ORDER TO GET A SHIRT. We will only be printing one batch. (Due to minimum order requirements)

There are several ways you can pay:

Take money by to my husband, Mike Smith at Ryburns

Mail it to me, (you will have to email me for my address, shelley23@gmail.com) or use that email address to pay via paypal. PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR SHIPPING ADDRESS IF I WILL BE MAILING IT TO YOU.

I have 50 shirts to get paid for, so this is why I have to get your payment up front; I hope everyone understands!

Shea, Alissa, Maury, Laura B,

McKinzie Adcock

2009-08-23T09:21:00.001-05:00

Kinzie is the daughter of Ronnie and Brittany Adcock. She is the little sister of Braxton, Blaine, and Ashley.

WOOT!!!!!!!!!!

2009-08-23T08:51:00.001-05:00

I get asked a lot who designs my blog, and who used to do all my graphic work on my old site. Well, here's your answer. My two good friends that do all that for me have now joined forces to create WOOT. Go check it out.

Fair Board President & 2 Members Resign at Thursday Meeting - story lifted from MONTICELLO LIVE

2009-08-21T09:37:00.001-05:00

Since the May tornado destroyed all of the Drew County Fairgrounds buildings, except for the auditorium, nothing has gone right for the Fair Board.
Aside from the “normal” preparation for getting the annual event taken care of, this year there has been the additional struggle of not knowing what conditions the fairgrounds would be in.
The insurance to the buildings only covered $60,000 in damages, and the board still doesn’t have that money in hand.

While there is the likelyhood of FEMA funding, there’s no specific amount approved that will come through.
Any improvements to the property, such as replacing buildings and structures, become property of the University of Arkansas, who owns the land, and not the fair board.
That surely describes an unclear future.
————
At the beginning of Thursday night’s special called fair board meeting, the board voted to completely cancel this year’s fair. Concerns included safety issues, electricity and lighting, fencing around the damaged property, and the short time frame left to get everything into working order.
The vote was 7-5, in favor of cancelling this year’s fair activities.
Shortly after the vote, board president Bobby Hood, along with board secretary Sandy Hood, and member Hubert McKeown resigned from the board.
Hood told the board that he couldn’t continue on as president, if it would be “working with a split board”, remembering how everyone had usually worked together, in a united effort.
It was felt that too much dissension at this point of the process, would lead to the failure of the purpose of the board.
—————————
As Hood was addressing the board, he reminded them that John Wayne Ross was their vice-president, and would be taking the position of president, and all seemed to agree.
As discussion resumed, the possibility of being able to provide a few of the scheduled activities is still being considered.
The pageants, talent show, gospel music night, rodeo, and parade will still be planned for, but could possibly be cancelled as the September 21 Fair Date approaches.
The carnival will not be scheduled to be at the fair this year.
About the only good report from the meeting was summed up by Ross, when he said, “the electrical grid should be in place, since we are getting full co-operation from both C&L Electric and Entergy.”

Noah Parker Jackson

2009-08-18T20:07:00.000-05:00

Noahie

sweet lil daddy's girl!

Jackson Earl Hines

2009-08-18T16:07:00.002-05:00

Jackson, 18 months

Adyson Joy

2009-08-12T16:27:00.002-05:00

Dirt Track Races

2009-08-10T09:00:00.003-05:00

We went out to the dirt track Saturday night for about three hours. It's nasty out there, but it sure is fun. I decided to try and take some pictures with the new camera. This is Benji's car.

Benji Ryburn, 1R

Johanna Strain in the pink and grey

Jimmy Gibson, 83

I had to add this one for Melinda; that's her grandbaby Colton catching a nap while his daddy races. (His mom is in the background taping)

Pullin' (and looking like he was going to flip)

I will post some over at www.shelleysmithphotography.com sometime this week.

Chelsey and Adam

2009-08-08T19:59:00.003-05:00

We shot a wedding in Bearden today. Can you tell we had a large time?

These two were super fun; that groom was a CLOWN!

We tried to stay prepared for his impromptu poses.....

There will be more over at www.ssweddings.com in a few days, I just had a to share a few :)
Battling with the flower girl

What happened when he saw his ride.....

the kids couldn't believe the "decorations" on the car... She said someone's gonna get in trouble for that!!!

CONGRATS! Check back on our wedding blog for more!

Don't forget

2009-08-05T10:01:00.000-05:00

Ashlee's World Race

2009-08-04T21:20:00.002-05:00

Ashlee is about to leave in a few days for Ireland; which is the first stop on her year long mission trip. I'm excited that I had a part in introducing her to this awesome program, and I know she will serve them and HIM very well with the others in her team. We will be able to follow her path; and watch her success through this blog. Ash needed some pics for her blog, so we took care of that today.