3 Wishes Photography

Children's Photographer in Castle Rock, CO

2012-02-14T11:46:00.000-07:00

I hope your Valentine's day is off to a good start! Rod and I actually celebrated last Friday (is it wrong that I want a do over now that it is actually Valentine's Day!) we went to see "The Vow" (good movie and it's based on a true story) and then went to dinner at Maggiano's. Tonight I will see if I can come up with something festive for the whole family. I did have heart shaped donuts for the girlies this morning (it was a total fluke, I stumbled across them yesterday when I was looking for a glazed donut to put in Maquires's lunch (Ryanne had to make his lunch today and it was on his request list).

FINALLY!!! Yesterday, I was able to actually do a photo shoot! This cold weather has made the rescheduling in February a challenge! And I was delighted to break out the camera for my little gal pal, Hartly, who is turning 2!!! How can that even be possible?

Of course, Hartly's grandma joined us. LOVE! She always has the best props to play with! Love this old tricycle! However, I was a little disappointed that we did not have our usual "animal co-star"!! No chicken, no goat... not even a horse!!

And then there is Kayla, Hartly's beautiful mommy. I don't know what it is about this family but I am secretly claiming them as part of my own. I just love them so much! So it's fitting that their sneak peek finds it's self on Valentine's day!!

It was still pretty darn cold so we had to move things instead... Kayla suggested the fire station!! The firemen in Larkspur and very accommodating!

Well, I must be off... there is much to be done!! I hope you all have a wonderful Valentine's day!

“Therefore I am now going to allure her;
   I will lead her into the wilderness
   and speak tenderly to her.
There I will give her back her vineyards,
   and will make the Valley of Achor a door of hope.
There she will respond as in the days of her youth,
   as in the day she came up out of Egypt.

    “In that day,” declares the LORD,
   “you will call me ‘my husband’;
   you will no longer call me ‘my master.’

I will betroth you to me forever;
   I will betroth you in righteousness and justice,
   in love and compassion.

Hosea 2: 14-16 & 19

Photographer in Castle Rock, CO - Baby Milestone Packages

2012-02-10T16:01:00.001-07:00

I have always wanted to do a post that highlighted some of "milestone babies" from beginning to end, today is that day. Some are not complete (this took WAY more time that I thought it would) but you get the jist... Milestone shoots capture your baby's first year Newborn, 3, 6, 9 & 12 months.

First up is Lovely Linely

Newborn

3 months old

6 months old

9 months old

1 Year!!

Next is Kute Kute Kylie, I am bummed that I could not track down her newborn and 3 month shoot but I just plain ran out of time.

6 months old

9 months old

1 year!!

So Sweet Stella is next!

3 months old

6 months old

9 months old

1 Year!!

And last but certainly not least is Kutie Patootie Keeley!!

Newborn

3 months old

6 months old

9 months old

1 year!!!

Now, I am sure some of you are wandering where are all the boys?!?!? I can tell you that I have many more girls than boys for milestone pictures (what's up with that moms?)... while I do have a couple of boys right now they are still working on finishing up their 1st year and the others were back into 2010 and those pictures are no longer available... so we have girls this time. Perhaps I will do this again sometime with the handsome fellas.

Well, as I have spent several hours on this little project I must move on, the kids are going to tumble in the front door any minute looking for a snack!! Have a great weekend. Cija

www.3wishesphotography.com

Lonely Hearts

2012-02-08T23:59:00.000-07:00

A conversation I had tonight caused me to think about Mary, oh so blessed and oh so lonely.

It’s hard to imagine what it must have felt like to be the mother of Jesus. There must have been moments so tender, so precious it was beyond comprehension. Rocking him to sleep, brushing his cheek, kissing the soft spot on the top of his head and breathing in the very scent of him... the Messiah - sent to set the captive free. But then there must have been moments of great sadness and despair, tunnels of loneliness burrowing their way through her young and frightened heart. I mean think about it, who could she really talk to? Her girlfriends? I can almost feel my own eyes rolling just thinking about it. “So you are never going to be believe what happened to me last night. I was just minding my own business when all of the sudden this Angel appeared...”. It seems the only other woman she could share her heart with was her much older relative, Elisabeth. But after a short stay with her it was back home to a town that used to be full of friendly faces but was now a town full of whispers, so called friends now speculating and gossiping about what they heard. A familiar place, once loved, now a dreaded place of rumor mills and pointed fingers. A trip on foot and donkey near the end of her pregnancy should have been a dreaded ordeal but she probably welcomed the excuse to get out of town away from the gnawing in her stomach that churned every time she was faced with running an errand. I imagine she let her mind wander along the way, “Maybe tonight, I will finally get a good’s night sleep in a nice comfortable bed.” Imagine her disappointment as Joseph tried to sell her on the perks of sleeping in a stable.

Oh her life would have joys unspeakable, but who could she bare her soul too. Who would listen to her stories of shepherds, choirs of angels and Magi’s from the East. Who would believer her, who could she trust. Eight days into her motherhood bliss, she takes her precious baby boy to Jerusalem to be consecrated to the Lord. A special day indeed but she is pulled aside and told “this child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel... and a sword will pierce your own soul too. What on earth does this mean, who could she call on to pray with, to help her understand and to listen to her concerns.

I don’t imagine it ever got any easier for Mary. Can you imagine the pressure of being Jesus’s mom? I shutter to think about their devotional time! I mean, how do you parent the Son of God? Who wants to sign up for a playdate with Mary and her perfect kid. And even when Jesus was in full ministry there must have been a mix of women that though Jesus was a joke and his mother even more pathetic and other’s who had been deeply and profoundly touch by Jesus, who just wanted to know her for the bragging rights “oh yay, me and Mary we go way back...”. Perhaps one of the loneliest lonely’s is the one when everyone around you knows you but nobody “knows” you.

So... what did Mary do? How did she handle her loneliness? The Bible says she “pondered” and “treasured” these things in her heart. She may have felt like she didn’t have a friend in the world or maybe she felt like she couldn’t have a friend in this world. But there were times when her heart felt loved and cared for... and she chose to ponder those times in her heart. She treasured those precious moments, those gifts of kindness that she received along the way. She kept them safe in her heart where she could linger over them in times of great loneliness. My sweet friend if you are suffering in a sea of loneliness tonight, I encourage you to ponder those things in our heart, there are those that God has placed in your life along the way to sprinkle treasures into your life; perhaps it’s a saved text or email, a card or a gift that was given to you pull them out and ponder the comfort that Lord has weaved into those tiny treasures. There are times when the touch of friend’s hand seems out of reach but remember there is always shelter under His wing.

Luke 2:19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.

Luke 2:51b But his mother treasured all these things in the heart.

Psalms 91:4 He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness with be your shield and rampart.

My deepest love... Cija

*** This lovely video is so good, it is worth posting again..

Boudoir Photographer in Castle Rock, CO

2012-02-06T14:38:00.000-07:00

I just love this time of year... the fall rush of family shoots has slowed and the theme of my winter shoots shifts while people wait for warmer weather to venture out again for pictures. Leaving me, with some of my favorite photo opps!! Babies, Bellies and Boudoir! And with Valentine's just a week and half away, Boudoir photography is topping the list! Many of you already know my heart behind doing this type of photography but I feel that it is worth repeating. I would have never dreamed that I was be so crazy for these bedroom shoots. In fact, when I was first asked about doing such a shoot, I laughed right out loud! But the requests continued to come, I shared a rather humorous story of my own boudoir experience in an earlier post so I won't go into detail but in short, being both the Boudoir Babe and the photographer, lent it's self to a rather comical episode to say the least.

It's what happened after, that struck me so deeply. If I was to be measured by the typical standard for beauty I fear I would not rate high on that scale, there is more of me than there should be and my heels look more like railroad tracks than feet! (Two years ago, the list of things I didn't like about physical appearance would have been much, much longer.)

But the pictures told a different story, I saw a beautiful girl staring back at me. Pictures that I thought sure would find their demise at the push of the delete key, instead found their way into a photo album for my husband. I was a nervous wreck... my Rodney is a man of few words and most of the time his compliments are tucked in a glance or an unassuming touch. That night as his eyes and fingers lingered over the pictures, back and forth over the pages, something happened... I began to see myself through the eyes of someone who loved me.

Boudoir photography is so much more to me than just sexy pictures of picture perfect women. It's about appreciating the beauty in every woman, all shapes and all ages for we are all wonderfully made! It's about these women finally being able to see the deep and vast beauty in themselves... to see themselves through the eyes of Someone who loves them.

"Arise, my darling, my beautiful one and come with me."

Song of Songs 2:10

I hope that you will consider taking this journey... it is well worth it!

Cija

www.3wishesphotography.com

(Pictures have been cropped for the privacy of these beautiful ladies. If you are interested in seeing more of my work, please contact me for a private gallery.)

Boudoir Photography in Castle Rock, Colorado

2012-02-01T15:12:00.005-07:00

No, I have not fallen and can't get up. I have been busy with Boudoir shoots, tis the season... perfect for your favorite Valentine. (As must of you know, I do not post images from my boudoir sessions just a head shot here and there to remind you that I do them). I have 3 more openings prior to Valentine's day so if you are interested let me know ASAP! If you don't mind here are a few words from a recent shoot.

"Thanks for coming over today. It was a delight to work with you. Upon reflection, one thing that I noticed impacted me is the language that you use during the shoot. You have the unique opportunity to affirm a woman in a vulnerable position using a woman's language! Words like, incredible, beautiful, pretty. Men don't necessarily use those words. The fact that you take the time to utter them reflects another aspect of your boudior 'ministry'. : )"

Now, I am off to carpool!! Hugs. Cija

www.3wishesphotography.com

Never Forget...

2012-01-25T19:35:00.002-07:00

In loving Memory of Caitlyn...

written by Danielle Davis

Don't Forget

Caitlyn's memorial service was last Saturday, and it was a perfect tribute to her in my opinion. There were over a hundred people at the service and we were so grateful and overwhelmed by everyone's love and thoughtfulness. We sang the hymns Jesus Loves Me, This is the Day, and I'll Fly Away. Carly's Mom read a beautiful poem she wrote called Cadence for Caitlyn. A video was played of pictures I put together of Caitlyn...which I thought was pretty neat, but Caitlyn's brother Graison thought was boring. :) I'll choose not to be offended by a 3 year old. I gave a brief presentation on FSMA and how much they did for Ryan and Carly, and the pastor gave a message at the end. In the middle of the service Ryan and Carly also shared what this experience has been like for them with little Caitlyn. Scriptures they quoted were John 16: 33 "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." and Isaiah 25:8 "He will swallow up death forever. The Sovereign Lord will wipe away the tears from all the faces..." Carly and Ryan shared that although it was difficult, choosing hospice was the best decision they could've made for their little Caitlyn. As one person wrote to them in a card, "You both did the most unselfish thing a parent could ever do for their child."

One of the things that struck me the most that Ryan and Carly said was "Don't Forget." We have all been overwhelmed with the outpouring of love, prayers, and thoughtfulness of family, friends, and even strangers. I cannot express this enough. People have told us how Caitlyn has touched their lives even though they never met her. Caitlyn's story is certainly a story of tragedy, courage, and ultimately triumph over death. Her story is fresh in our minds now, but it is likely that it will start to fade. So, please...don't forget Caitlyn's story.

Don't Forget:

~that SMA stole our Caitlyn from us...that SMA is the #1 genetic killer of infants...that 1 in 40 people are carriers of SMA...that there is NO CURE or TREATMENT...that there could be soon with proper funding! Please consider making a donation to Families of Spinal Muscular Atrophy. This is a cruel disease, it is cruel to have a seemingly perfectly healthy baby for a few months and then to find out she will die in a matter of months as her body quickly fails her. It is cruel that on the weekend of what should've been the celebration of her 1st birthday we were having a memorial service for her instead.

~to pray for Ryan, Carly, and Graison and the rest of our families as we deal with the loss of Caitlyn and as we move forward. YOUR prayers and love are what have pulled us through. Your thoughts and the outpouring of kindness provide much needed warmth to our hearts. Please pray for the children still battling SMA, pray for a cure!

~that Jesus is a SAVIOR. Jesus saved Caitlyn. Caitlyn beat SMA. Jesus said "This is Enough!" and took Caitlyn home to live with Him forever. He did not let her suffer long and for that we PRAISE GOD! I have said this before, but I'll repeat it....while we grieve and mourn the loss of Caitlyn, it is with JOY we know she is in a better place. Not just better, but the most magnificent, glorious place that exists...Heaven. While we grieve the childhood Caitlyn will never have on Earth, that she will never go to college, never marry, never have children...she will also NEVER suffer again. She will see Jesus everyday and walk the streets of Heaven. What could be better than that? What more could we want for Caitlyn? Our greatest hope for Caitlyn has been realized....she has been SAVED.

Baby Photography in Parker, CO

2012-01-24T14:04:00.001-07:00

Little Miss Liberty...

is 6 month old.

And isn't she just the sweetest!!!

I am having trouble picking my favorite, really like the one above...

but, this little tongue shot is a whole bunch of difference kinds of cute!!

So... I can't possibly choose.

She is simply... too CUTE!

So I will leave it at that.

My next couple of shoots are Boudoir Valentine shoots so you have more Cija Specials to look forward too in place of sneak peeks. What will I come up with next?!?!

See you soon!! Cija

www.3wishesphotography.com

A Few of My Favorite Things 2012

2012-01-23T20:18:00.001-07:00

I had so much fun last year posting pictures of some of my favorite things, I decided to do it again! I hope you enjoy this little break from the norm...

Colorado Summer Afternoon Thunder Storms

Pinterest, WOW! What a clever idea!

and looky there, MAC front and center!!

Author - Francine Rivers

Books - The Mark of the Lion Series

Hero - Hadassah, I want to be just like her when I grow up

Oh... my Label Marker!!

Hello, good friend!

Keepers of the Light Candles - YUM!

Starbucks Iced Coffees and Frappachinos

Halloween

Yep, it's true...

The d Bar

Simply the yummiest place on earth.

My Milk Chocolate Chip Cookies

with an ice cold glass of milk

A Beautiful Table Design

and good friends to share it with

Bath & Body Works Mentha Lipgloss

in assorted favors of course!

"Grace"

the necklace and the attribute, where would I be with out God's Grace?

Homemade salsa with On the Border Chips

Well there you have it, just a few of my current "Favorite Things". I'll be back tomorrow with a sneak peek from today's shoot with little Liberty. See you soon! Cija

www.3wishesphotography.com

Sweet 16!!

2012-01-22T15:29:00.000-07:00

Last night the girls and I were out partying!! Mid January means "Abby's Birthday" and this year was her Sweet 16!! Her family planned a fun event to celebrate. The theme was a Masquerade! First there was a sit down dinner for family and close friends, followed by a dance with all of Abby's friends.

The highlight of the evening was Abby's new car!! I gift from her Grandma, Great Grandparents and Uncle. She was very excited and completely surprised!!

Ofcourse, Ann did a fabulous job on the decor... it was absolutely beautiful!

This is Abby with the Car Givers!!

Yep, those are my cherubs, they had a great time dancing and hanging out with the teenagers!!

I got to be honest it took a while to get these teens to actually dance, but eventually they got with the program.

Two of Abby's cousins, Harmony and Lilly

Oh Melia... you make my little heart melt.

(now you may be saying, where is Sabrina... running at speeds to great to catch on film!!!)

Ryan and Faith's family win my award for best dressed family of the night, they were all sportin' their best duds and fabulous masks!!

And one last picture of my girls with their "party" on!!

Happy Birthday Abby!!

Children's Photographer in Castle Rock, CO

2012-01-19T15:43:00.001-07:00

Holy Moly, is this weather to die for or what?! I think the girls and I will head to the park when they get home, since I already have dinner in the oven (insert applause here)!! It started out seriously windy, so windy in fact, I had wondered about possibly rescheduling Cooper shoot, but we pressed on and the wind died down, YIPPEE! Cooper did such a fabulous job, what a sweet and well behaved little guy! I was very impressed and just look at that twinkle in his eye! Mom was working, so grandma and grandpa stepped up to bring Coop out for his big 3 year old shoot!

We had a great time and we were done in a flash!

Well, I am off!! See you soon. Cija

www.3wishesphotography.com

Baby Photography in Castle Rock, CO

2012-01-18T14:43:00.001-07:00

And the winner for "Happiest Baby" goes to... CLARK!! (the crowd goes wild!!) I mean seriously, so Clark and I get together monthly for a little photog time and every stinkin' time he is content as can be. And, might I add, we have had some of the coldest shoots I have ever been on (his 6 month was a killer!!) but it didn't phase him one little bit. I like him... ALOT!

And the face, he is just too cute! So suave and debonaire... he has a "Bond" quality about him. My name is "Harris, Clark Harris". Oh yes, that suits him!! Just say it while looking at the picture below.

Well, it is already time to go get the girls from school. They are going to be soooo excited when they get home. On date night, Melia and I picked up some duct tape and I showed her how to make a few things, she went crazy for it and all 3 of them have been scouring youtube watching duct tape tutorials. Today, I went to Walmart and picked up a few rolls for them to create with. I just love being able to do something for them that they will be so excited about!! Should be a fun night at the Cookseys!

www.3wishesphotography.com

Family Photography in Castle Rock, CO

2012-01-14T09:44:00.000-07:00

So you will have to pardon me if I just gush and gush over these pictures! I just love so much about them and feel impressed to tell you every little detail. Okay, let's start with the big item... THE FAMILY!! I love, love love this family. Especially the lovely lady in the red hat, that would be my dear sweet friend, Amity. I met her at women's retreat, let's see a year and half ago.

This cutie patootie is Miss Eleary. She is just plain yummilicious and dripping is cuteness.

She was amazing! Such a sweet young lady!

This is Colin, Amity's husband... I love a man that is man enough to wear a hat! And not just any hat a super fantabulously fun hat like this one!

Oh man... I just love the sweet little look Eleary is givin' her daddy, oh my, is he in trouble or what?!

Melting... into a pile of mushy goo!!!

I aspire to pucker like that, have you ever seen anything so cute... no wonder, Colin can do nothing but take in the cuteness of such a pucker! LOVE!

And we all know now much I like the daddy daughter pics. There is nothing quite like a good daddy!

A little girl's Hero for sure!

Love this one too... Colin sneakin' a little kiss! Precious!

Well it goes thing out saying I had tons of fun on this shoot with my sweet friends! But for the record...

I HAD SO MUCH FUN!!!

But for now I must be off to the store, the girls need to buy gifts for a birthday party and I need to grocery shop (yuck)!! But we have friends coming for dinner.

Until next time! Cija

www.3wishesphotography.com

Maternity Pictures Castle Rock, Colorado

2012-01-10T16:50:00.003-07:00

I should really be coming up with a plan for dinner, I am sure my family is growing weary of my 11th hour "Cija Surprise" dinners, but... nah! I would much rather be hangin' here with you.

So yesterday I made my way up to Thornton to be with Sarah and Mike. They are expecting a little girl in February! Maybe she will be a Valentine baby?!

They wanted to play with this fun blocks and I was happy to oblige. I just love the name they picked out! It is pronounced Ah-lex-ee-ah.

Man, what an exciting time for them! So be sure to check back in February to see Alexia's very first photoshoot! Okay, the guilt is wearing on me, I shall face my destiny and open the freezer or... Rod could always take us out for dinner! Wait delivery sounds even better, then I can go put on my jammies! Oh if only White Chocolate Grill delivered, I could really go for their chicken salad right now. Erin, my WCG buddy where are you?!?!? Oh, and Anissa hooked me up with lunch at Siena's (who knew?) very yummy pizza and salad lunch! I am a fan! Okay, clearly I am hungry. Dinner. Focus Cija!!

Until next time. Cija

www.3wishesphotography.com

Hope

2012-01-10T09:41:00.000-07:00

As I have eluded, things have a been well... rather bumpy so far this year. There are moments when the grief and the loss seem almost too much to bare. But then there are moments when God's peace falls on me with unmistakable power. This morning was one of those mornings. As I prepared to make the bed (far too early, I might add) I opened the blinds and was greeted with a magnificent display of God's handiwork. The mountains were covered in a blanket of deep purple and the sky was painted in pink and orange and the moon was full and bright. I was quickly reminded that that the creator of such beauty was the Author and Finisher of my faith, My God and My Savior.

Later, after the girls were dropped at school I started making my way through my email inbox and read the following devotional from Proverbs 31 Ministries.

"And the truth of the matter is: God never changes. His power to give a future and hope never change. His Word never changes. So when life weaves stories of doubt and hopelessness in God’s authority over circumstances, I reread accounts of His faithfulness and redemption. I refer back to the Truth…

All the while Job’s family, home, crops and health demolished…God was preparing to give him double of what was killed, stolen, lost and damaged.

The time Joseph was a slave and prisoner…God was planning for him to be second in command over Egypt.

When Ruth was a homeless, barren widow…God was creating a home in Boaz’s heart for her to be a wife, and mother, and great, great, great-grandmother to His Son.

As Lazarus was bound in grave clothes…God was forming the breath that’d give him new life.

The moment David laid down in adultery…God was laying the groundwork for him to rise up in repentance.

Every time Saul crucified Christians…God saw Paul preaching the crucified Christ.

With each strike that Sarai beat Hagar with…God saw Sarah beating her jealousy, pride and doubt with the birth of Isaac.

When Esther was an orphaned girl shaking in fear for her life…God made a way for His daughter to shake a kingdom and save His people.

As Rahab welcomed men into the shelter of her bed…God saw her sheltering the spies on her roof.

When Peter lost faith and denied Christ…God saw him bringing many to faith as he proclaimed Christ.

As Moses killed an Egyptian with his hands…God saw him chiseling the Ten Commandments with those same hands.

At the time Mary saw Jesus die…God saw Jesus resurrected and seated on His heavenly throne!

No matter what the dire, dreary circumstances, God turned each into a hopeful future."

Baby Photographer in Lone Tree, CO

2012-01-09T14:58:00.001-07:00

And so the week begins. Perhaps a little more tired than some, but a little lighter than others. It seems every week as a journey of it's own. On Saturday I met up with Keeley, one of my favorite little girls! This was the last of her milestone photo shoots, big giant boo boo face!! I am afraid I have gotten used to seeing this sweet little one every 3 months and I am not looking forward to CHANGE.

We had a pretty fun time playin' in the park and she was quite a fan of "The Blue Chair" (yep, I'm writing it in quotes now, that will help to solidify it's identity, and yes, I am giving the blue chair an identify. Oh come on it will be fun! I wear flip flop and I have "The Blue Chair"!

Oh that face!

Those puckered lips, I am officially on cuteness overload! Oh come on you're tempted aren't ya?

You just want to pinch that computer screen!!

After we were done playing, or maybe it was more after we were frozen... we made our way to the lobby of a near by office building to enjoy a little cake! (Note to self... carry a dust buster in the car!! and our sincerest apologies to the custodial staff...)

"Oops, I dropped some!! don't worry, I'll get it!"

Happy Birthday, Keeley!!! I hope to see you again real soon!!!

www.3wishesphotography.com

Family Photographer in Parker, CO

2012-01-06T12:50:00.002-07:00

Me and the Dish Network guy are hangin' out this afternoon, but bet he really wishes that I spoke his language "cable this and cable that, tuner this and tuner that... blah blah blah" Listen man, I just wanna watch what I wanna watch when I wanna watch it and record what I want to record when I want to record it... so make it happen!

This lovely family is the McGunkins, Adam, Danielle, Liam and Max (you may remember Max the little frog from 8 months ago, he grew up a little bit!). I went out to their house and we played around in the field out back for a little bit. Man, was it a gorgeous day or what!!

Well, I am off (as soon as the Cable guy leaves) to have lunch with my roller derby bubby... Anissa!! Can't wait! And tonight is the Bunco Girl's night out!! I have planned an Amazing Race! It should be super fun (yes, there will be pictures!)

Bye! Cija

www.3wishesphotography.com

Loss and Forgiveness

2012-01-04T23:10:00.001-07:00

To some this post will seem completely random to others they will relate and know exactly why it's here. This post is for you.

From "Breaking Free" by Beth Moore

"Any kind of "death" is an invitation to resurrection life to the believer. Thank goodness, the loss of something or someone dear never has to mean the end of abundant, effective, or even joyful life for any Christian.

Joy and effectiveness may seem to pause for a while as grief takes it's course, but those who allow their broken hearts to be bound by Christ will experience them again. Our Savior is the God of resurrection life, no matter what kind of death has occurred in the life of any believer.

Nothing is more natural than grief after a devastating loss, but those of us in Christ can experience satisfying life again. When our heats have been shattered by loss, we have an opportunity to welcome a supernatural power to our lives. it doesn't come any other way. That is the power to live again when we'd really rather die. It is a power that displays the life of Christ in us like no other because it defies all odds. God becomes the only explanation for our emotional survival and revival. Perhaps the most profound miracle of all is living through something we thought would kill us. And not just living, but living abundantly and effectively - raised from living death to a new life. A life indeed absent of something or someone dear but filled with the presence of the resurrection and the life.

... The life of a Christian is never about sameness. It's always about change. That's why we must learn to survive and once again thrive when change involves a heartbreaking loss. We're being conformed to the image of Christ. When our hearts are hemorrhaging with grief and loss, never forget that Christ binds and compresses it with a nail-scarred hand. Life will not ever be the same, but I have the invitation from Christ to rise to a new life - a more compassionate life, a wiser life, a more productive life. And yes, even a better life. Sound impossible? It is with out Christ. " - Beth Moore

Newborn Photography in Castle Rock, CO

2012-01-04T12:24:00.003-07:00

Well... the holidays are over, the Christmas decorations are all put away and it's back to the usual grind. I figured we would ease into 2012. We were back to just the 5 of us, the fall craziness was behind us and things were going to be... quieter, simpler and definitely slower.

I was wrong, as many of you know our new year started with a heart wrenching good-bye, as our precious Caitlyn moved from the loving arms of her mommy to the loving arms of her Savior. Emotions ran high for all of us. The following morning on our way out the door we received an email from a high school friend, one of my very best friends. Her son's girlfriend is suffering from cystic fibrosis, and with 25% lung capacity she is in need of a lung transplant... sooner rather than later.

My friend was asking us to pray... Tamara's mom and sister were going to donate but they needed 5 back up donors for insurance purposes. The only requires = Type 0 and taller than 5'8, as Rod thought about Caitlyn and how we wished there would have been an option for Caitlyn, he was compelled to volunteer. Her mom and sister would donate and Rod's simple yes would give her the last piece that she would need to get things moving why wouldn't he do it.

The next night I had the opportunity to converse with Tamara directly, we had misunderstood and now Rod faced the real possibility that he would be 1 of 2 from the 5 donors that would be selected for the transplant surgery. Tamara's mom and sister would be considered along side Rod and the 2 others but the best 2 would be selected. Rod remained calm. Cija did not. I was quite literally overwhelmed with fear that started with the simple stuff...

- Rod just started a new job, no vacation time

- no medical insurance

- etc.

and then it progressed to the more complicated stuff

- the toll on our finances

- potential job loss

- the health risks to Rod

Rod and I prayed, wait Rod prayed... I cried and long for a rewind button.

The next day, I managed to pray. I talked to Tamara, I wanted her to know our hearts. This was much bigger that we had originally thought, we needed more information and time to really

wait on God for his direction. In my mind I was swinging back and forth, does God want us to be like Moses, to move forward and participate in something that seemed scary, crazy and impossible with out Him or were to be like David, who long to build the Temple for God but was asked to step aside and let someone else do it. The idea of helping this young girl pulled at our hearts we wanted to help but we had jumped into something uninformed and with out asking God what He wanted. So we would educate ourselves and we would earnestly seek His direction. Whatever He wanted we would do.

I am always blown away by how God equips his people to face the struggles of this world.

Tamara said things to me like:

"God is my rock so there is no need to worry! "

"God is holding me in His mighty hand and I know that with you guys or not, I will be getting my lungs. I completely have my faith in God! "

"God is good and He always provides."

"I finally said God take it, it's up to you and only you!"

Tamara texted me yesterday afternoon and said that another donor came forward, she had the 5 that she needed, she would ask for nothing more than our prayers on her behalf.

I won't lie, I was deeply relieved. As I sat in the school parking lot, I prayed and thanked God for providing another donor and for clearly letting us know what our role was to be.

This has been a very emotional couple of days, but I am grateful for having gone through it, I have learned more about the love of God and I have been blessed to have met such an extraordinary young woman with such great faith.

I read this morning that Christ never allows the hearts of His Children to be hurt without excellent reasons and eternal purposes. Tamara is facing a giant but God is standing right beside her, and praise God...

she knows it.

Over the years, so many of you have been faithful to pray with me, first for Ellie, then for Joshua, for Mike and for Melanie... will you join me now in praying for Tamara and the 5 donors that will embark on this journey with her? May all praise and glory be to God for what he will do.

Now to the this sweet little boy who's pictures made this blog entry so CUTE!! This is Owen and he is 3 weeks old. Oh my goodness, such a pretty baby!!! Don't you just love the lips! Just the sweetest little thing EVER! Owen was joined by his mommy and daddy, his big brother, who is 8, was at school. I have two faves of the day, the first one and the one of his dad holding him... oh man, I just love that little expression on his face!!

Well... it seems I have lingered here long enough. Until next time! Cija

www.3wishesphotography.com

This is Tamara... I just texted her to make sure I could use this picture and guess what!?!

She now has 6 donors!!

"Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly more than we could ever ask or imagine!!"

No words...

2011-12-31T16:14:00.001-07:00

I thought I could sit down and write some moving tribute... I can't, I have no words.

There are so many platitudes, yuck.

This is Caitlyn, she is my great niece, not in the sense that she is greater than my other nieces but in the sense that she is my niece's daughter. She was born in January 2011, I met her face to sweet precious face in September 2011 and she stopped breathing last night. She had SMA1.

Oh those chocolate brown eyes, they make me melt. She had the sweetest smile ever and that is the memory that I will cherish in my heart until I see her again in Heaven.

My heart hurts and the tears comes so easily and I am just her Great Aunt. Please pray for her mom, Carly, her dad, Ryan and her brother, Graison and her Grandparents... and the rest of us aunts, uncles and cousins that loved her sooo much.

Good bye sweet baby girl... I'll see you soon.

Auntie Cija

Baby Photograher in Parker, Co

2011-12-29T16:10:00.003-07:00

Hello!! I am back! This is the last of the pictures until next year!! Oh I may be back with a story or two to share but the shoots for 2011 are officially over.

And I can't think of a sweeter way to end that year then with Linley, who will officially be 1 year old on December 30th!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LINLEY!

I am very sad to report that Linley is moving to California... boo!! (but maybe I will be really lucky and her mom will call me when they are in town to visit just like Maddock and Paisley's mom does, that would be AWESOME!!)

Well, it has been a very lazy day, in fact not os 4:08 PM and I am still in my jammies!!! The girls and I played a marathon game of Monopoly, but now that Rod is home I think maybe I will get dressed and we can go out and do something fun. Now... what to do? Oh, by the way we went to see "We Bought a Zoo" yesterday, very fun movie!!

Okay... I am off!!

www.3wishesphotography.com

Family Photography in Castle Rock, CO

2011-12-28T21:36:00.002-07:00

Now don't let the fact that I am posting pictures fool you, technically I am still on vacation until the 3rd of January but... I did sneak in a couple of shoots yesterday (I'm such a softy) and I just couldn't bare to make them wait until next week to see their sneak peeks!

So a couple of weeks ago I did Katelyn's pictures, she the cute little one in the middle of the first picture and yesterday we did the whole family including visiting family all the way from Michigan!

Above is Katelyn's uncle and cousin... below her big brothers!

Oh... and there mom and dad and grandma and grandpa!!!

We had lots of fun with the whole family!!

Well, Rod just got home, it's been a long day all around... so I think I am gonna grab a blanket and hang out with my hubby for a while. See you tomorrow, with another peek!

Cija

www.3wishesphotography.com

Family Photography in Castle Rock, CO - The Polemi Family

2011-12-26T19:14:00.000-07:00

So... did you have a Merry Christmas? We sure did! A few schedule changes in terms of where we spent our time but it was great!! We had precious, sweet time with our girls that I have longed for, we even played our first game of LIFE yesterday afternoon, what a HOOT!

On Friday, before the festivities began I ran out for a quick shoot with the Polemi's. Isn't it

B-E-Utiful?!?! The snow on the trees was amazing!! That 's doesn't happen very often, it usually warms up and falls off the branches before I can talk someone into braving the outdoors for a photo shoot, but man is it worth it, it just doesn't get anymore breath taking!

My short term memory is on the fritz again and I can't for the life of my remember their son's name... it will come to me in the middle of the night no doubt, but any who, the handsome man on the right is their oldest and is home from Graduate school for Christmas. I don't remember the official name of his specialty but it had to do with radiation treatments and he is working on a new machine that will detect breast cancer, at least I think I got that right.

Katelyn is a Senior this year (you may remember her from a few months back and her Senior Pictures). She tried to relay the message about wearing snow boots but no one listened, I'm afraid they all had chilly toes at dinner!!

Well, I think I am going to wrap this up and join the fam in the family room for some "just dance 3"!!

See you soon! Cija

www.3wishesphotography.com

A Christmas Post

2011-12-24T22:54:00.002-07:00

So this post is going to be a bit unusual. The usual Christmas Eve post is a recap of our baking day and oh, did we bake but instead I am going to share a story with you. After hearing my sweet friend Lynn share this story a few weeks ago I was inspired to write a short story about her experience. This is based on her very true story... I hope you enjoy.

Treasures in the Sand

Cija Cooksey

It seemed like I had been waiting for this moment for a lifetime. I had become a Christian years ago, but it was only in the last couple of years that I had fallen head over heels in love with my Savior. I was literally basking in His beautiful romance. I know, I sound a little crazy to some, if you’ve yet to experience the romancing of Jesus it’s quite literally impossible to imagine.

Hours ago I boarded a plane in Denver and now I was watching the Holy Land pass by through a tour bus window. My body and mind were tired from a long day of travel but my heart seemed to skip a beat to realize that I was where my Jesus once walked.

It occurred to me as I tried to navigate my carry on bag thru the narrow aisle way of the bus that no one had thought to coordinate their sizes to work well together. I bumped my way to front and made my way down the stairs, my exhaustion caused me to wonder again, why not add one more step? It would be such a simple fix to oversized steps leading to and from the bus that highlight my growing imbalance and lack of coordination.

I half expected to hear applause as I finally stepped onto the concrete for having successfully navigated the obstacle course that is “Greyhound”. Instead it was the bus driver’s voice that caused my head to turn,

“Ma’am? The sea is only 4 blocks that way and sun will be setting soon, perhaps the short walk would be a nice ending to your long day of travels.”

I wondered if the driver had missed my less than graceful exit from the bus, the only thing this girl could think about was a hot shower, a little food, a bed with extra pillows and a TV remote.

I was rummaging through my suitcase looking for the last of my toiletries when the view from my window caught my eye. The sun was low in the sky, soon it would be out of sight until morning. I was here. Israel, the Promise Land. I slid my room key off the dresser and into my pocket and raced out the door. I was frustrated, why had I wasted such precious daylight, I zig zagged my way through the crowded streets “Four blocks, just four blocks, I can make it” I thought to myself.

Something about the sand made it even more real, Jesus had been here, he had walked on this beach. I was overwhelmed. I had spent years as a Christian trying to be good, trying to follow all the rules, trying to be perfect and I failed miserably; but lately I had started to take the focus off of me and what I thought I could do and instead put it on Him and what He had already done. He loved me more than I could begin to comprehend and since the beginning of time He had set out to pursue me, to chase after me for He longed to be with me and I was falling hopelessly in love with Him. He was My Creator, My Protector... My Savior.

As I watched the sunlight dance a top the water, I was overcome with joy; my heart sang praises and my hands lifted high in absolute worship and adoration. The tide was coming in and the water began to move back and forth over my tired feet, perhaps just another gift from the One who loved me so. It wouldn’t be long and the light of day would be completely gone. I knew I wanted to remember this moment forever; I needed a memento... perhaps a seashell. I searched the sand, even picked up a few, looking for that one that would be unique and as special as this moment. I was reaching for another when something just below the water’s surface caught my eye. It shimmered like the sun being reflected off a crystal prism. I reached below the surface of the water and pulled out a ring. A sliver band.

“I am your Creator, Your Protector, Your Savior and you... you are my Bride.” I could almost hear the words - they rang so clear in my heart. I was His bride and here on this beach He gave me a ring as a symbol of His love and promise to me. There are no words for what happened to me on the beach that day, there are simply no words... for the love of My Savior.

“I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine.”

Merry Christmas everyone!!! May you find Jesus this Christmas and fall hopelessly in love with him. Cija

Silent Night...

2011-12-23T12:29:00.000-07:00

Man, I just listened to the most beautiful version of the song Silent Night. The video was breathtaking too, all snowy and gorgeous and it got me thinkin'...

It's pretty silent here today. The girls are at the park with their friends sledding in the new snow, Rod is at work and Aimee and kids went to the airport to pick up Matt. Usually this would be happy news, it's just more complete when Matt is here too. But today that news of his arrival does not have the same effect. He is coming to pack up his family and move them to Oregon. They have been here for 6 months and 1 day. It's more than I could have imagined... in fact when I prayed I asked for a week, just a week of vacation to spend with our dear friends.

But God who is infinitely more than I can imagine graciously gave me more than I could ever think to ask for. He said "No." to the vacation request and I was seriously bummed, I started scrambling trying to make something happen but it kept coming back "No".

He had so much more to give... 6 months and 1 day.

I will miss Matthew's stories at dinner and his totally kickin' dance moves, I will miss Isabell's heelying through the kitchen and the way she can make everything a finger food, I will miss Mia and her fabulous messy ponytail, I will miss Matt's random news facts and parmesan chicken but mostly

I will miss my precious and dear friend, Aimee.

I will miss our games (speed, hertz and pente), cooking together, grocery shopping together, thursday lunches and our sweet talks about the Lord.

I will miss her more than she will ever know.

So I wish them safety on their journey, a wonderful place to call their own, a home filled with laughter, a church where they will grow in their love for the Lord and friends in the neighborhood who will fill their life with joy and happiness.

Good bye my sweet, sweet friends!! XOXO, Cija

By the way, I am already mapquesting the midway point!!

Family Photographer in Denver, CO

2011-12-18T17:07:00.001-07:00

Yesterday afternoon I met up with Suzanne and her family for a family shoot. (Shhh!!! It's a Christmas present for Jeremy and Jeff's mom). I was feelin' pretty bad for Suzanne's daughter because she was wearing little ballet flats, I tried to limit the amount of snow I make her walk through, I am sure that she had little frozen tootsies by the time we were done.

So I will be pretty scarce the next couple of weeks. I am taking some time off to spend with my cherubs. I have one shoot on Friday and two a week from Tuesday but other than that I am free to play with my girlies! WooHoo!!!

Until next time!! Cija

www.3wishesphotography.com

Newborn Photographer in Castle Rock, CO

2011-12-15T09:50:00.001-07:00

Hey there! So it is the last day before Christmas vacation! Are you ready? We are ringing in the time off with a giant sleepover. The potential is 12 kids (10 of those girls) where are the ear plugs? My poor husband, he actually has to get up and go to work tomorrow!!

But let's back up to yesterday shall we... this is Greyson. He is cute! super CUTE!! and such a sweet little model, he did a fabulous job at his first photoshoot!! My fave of the day is day holding him and he has one arm hanging down and one foot stickin' up! LOVE!!

Man, are they gonna have a fun Christmas or what?

Speaking of Christmas, I'm seriously thinking about starting my shopping next week!!

OH AND I made gifts for the teachers this year... I made these cute little clipboards and I was shocked at just how cute they turned out. I almost took a picture of them but then I thought what on earth would I do with a photo of clipboards but now... I know! I would have put it on here for you to see!! Oh well, you will just have to trust me! And the whole ordeal was relatively painless. I did have to make a last minute trip to Micheals for Mod Podge but Talia went with me, gave me a 40% off coupon and talked me into Starbucks, my first Caramel Brule' Latte of the season YUM!! and then my hubby hung out with me all the live long night while I glued and snipped and tied! He just sat and listened to me rattle on for a couple of hours... oh, I do love him!! He is the bestest!

Well... the actual shoots are slowing down, one more on Saturday and then I am taking some time off. Only one shoot next week and then 2 after Christmas will wrap up the 2011 season!

Okay, I am off! Cija

www.3wishesphotography.com

Children's Photographer in Denver, CO - Binford

2011-12-13T23:53:00.004-07:00

I told Cathy I would have her sneak peek up today... I may be slidin' in with only 15 minutes to spared but it is still Tuesday!! Yesterday, after Clark and after Kasen and Madelyn I met up with some of my favorite kids. Adam was marking his 7th birthday and in addition to his birthday pictures we set up to get one photo of the 3 of them for a Christmas card.

Well... here it is the one photo of the 3 of them. Yep, there is only one. Between the 2 shoot the temperature dropped dramatically and it was COLD!!! Really COLD! and poor little Andrew was not at all interested in having his pictures taken. So while mom tried to comfort Andrew, Adam and I got to work on his 7 year old pics.

In the end it was determined that a picture of the 3 of them was not going to be possible. So we opted for individual pics of each of them . 1st was little Elizabeth (this photo was snapped while she was riding one of those rocking spring animals!)

Then we took at shot at Andrew. For a teenie tiny little moment he was happy on the train but it didn't last...

In the end, the only place Andrew was happy was sitting on his mom's lap in behind the steering wheel with the heat going and a little Toto blastin' on the radio!!

Hey... whatever works!!!

Okay... I am going to get outta here before it becomes tomorrow!

Photographer in Castle Rock, CO

2011-12-12T22:41:00.001-07:00

LOVE those faces!!

I told you I would be back soon!! My second shoot of the day was with Madelyn, who is turning one and her big brother Kasen. The original plan was to meet tomorrow but there is a rumor of rain and snow so we switched it up for today. Such cute kiddos!!! And they were really troopers in the chilly weather.

Well... I have not warmed up from two hours crawling around in the snow, so I am headed to bed, where I fully intend to put my cold feet against Rod's warmness!!

See you tomorrow!!

Cija

www.3wishesphotography.com

Children's Photographer in Castle Rock, CO

2011-12-12T21:21:00.001-07:00

Love the BOO BOO Face!

Well, I am just droppin' in to bring you Clark's sneak peek. This time Clark decided to bring his big brother Aiden and big sister Ally along. I'm afraid I can linger, two more sneak peek to try and get up. I will survive this final pre-christmas rush!!

See you soon!!!

Baby Photographer In Castle Rock, CO

2011-12-11T21:53:00.001-07:00

It's just a few minutes before 10:00 PM and it feels like 2:00 AM... I am pooped! Wow! What a jam packed weekend the Cooksey's had (okay, I literally had to retype my last name 4 times... Cookies (twice) & then Cookeys (when I typed this one I just had to stare at it for a minute to figure out what was wrong with it!!) Not good, I told you I was tired.

What were we up to? Well, I am glad you asked (in the land of "Blog" you asked).

Friday night we baked and decorated Christmas cookies and then watched "It's a Wonderful Life" wait either I am having a deja vu moment or I have already told you this.

Saturday morning we stamped and embossed Christmas "To - From" tags and then set out to deliver a gazillion customer CD's. A quick stop at Sonic for Chili dogs and then I dropped the fam off at Southlands while I went over to Oliver's house for his 6 month photo shoot. Isn't he the cutest? He was pooped too. We did one outfit, changed his clothes into his Santa outfit put him in a basket and he fell sound asleep. But we loved it!! So stink in' cute!

Then we woke him up for one more outfit change and a few pics with mom and dad. My fave of the day would have to be any of the Santa shots I loved every single one of them. Just precious!

Then it was back to Southlands to do some shopping with the rest of my crew, some more CD deliveries and then we headed over to Cherry Hills Community Church for their "Christmas at the Ranch" program. Such beautiful Christmas music!! And there was a bonus our friend Cassidy was in the show!

After the show, we headed to Chili's for dinner with Cassidy's whole family! Phew, talk about a busy day! and then we did it again today! Church, lunch, shopping, Rod's orchestra concert, more shopping and then over to my mom's house to help decorate her Christmas tree

and wish her a Happy 80th Birthday!!

My deepest apologies to Mrs. Meeks and Mrs. Langtry tomorrow... my kiddos are going to be VERY tired!!! I am so glad they have school!

It's gonna be another busy week but then... some much anticipated time off to spend with Rod and the girls!! I'll be back again tomorrow with a sneak of Clark and his peeps!

Nighty Night! Cija

www.3wishesphotography.com

Photographer in Castle Rock, CO - Kasten

2011-12-09T23:20:00.001-07:00

It's another late night post. But it's worth it. Fun night with the kiddos. We baked and decorated sugar cookies and then watched "It's a Wonderful Life". We've never seen it before, I'm a fan. I was shocked that the girls stuck out an "old fashion" movie with no color, but they watched the whole thing! (Well, Ryanne fell asleep but 2 of 3's not bad.)

But before the weekend festivities began I met up with the Kasten's for some family pictures. The very handsome and toothless young man above is Nicolas.

And this lovely little lady is Calley (again, I am so sorry if I have the spelling wrong). I, at least know that the "C" is right because Amy told me that sometimes she calls Calley Joe... "CJ"!!

May I just say I a big fan of the piggie tails!!! I love piggie tails I even love them on me! Sometimes when I am home along I sport them myself. Not the trendy little low riding piggies... I am talking the high on top of your head type of piggies (think Boo from Monster's Inc).

I thought the snow in this little creek area was so beautiful, I will say it again... if you can keep your kids warm, snow pictures have to be my all time favorite!

LOVE...

Well, I can't stop yawning so I am going to take the hint and head off to bed. I'll see you again sometime this weekend. Gonna hang out with Oliver tomorrow, already 6 month old!!!

Nighty Night!

www.3wishesphotography.com

Family Photography in Castle Rock, CO

2011-12-08T20:25:00.001-07:00

38. That's how many shoots it has taken me to figure out that I can not wear MAC False Lash Mascara on my photo shoots. Every time I get in the car after a shoot and look in the rear view mirror I scare myself with my black blotchiness!! I can only imagine what my clients must think when I am giving them the post shoot instructions!!!

This afternoon I was with the Abeyta family. I wuv them! Brian is the Pastor at our church and his stunning wife is the worship leader. Our family is blessed to be part of a church where the gifts of the Spirit flow so freely through these faithful servants.

Their oldest daughter is Miquela, and this is how she ALWAYS looks.

I have never seen her with out a smile on her face.

This is Lauren, she prepped me on the selected wardrobe (completely with pictures I might add)! I seriously need her to come over and by my personal hair consultant. One Sunday the girls and I cornered her and got a hands on lesson for the "Lauren Messy Bun", well... that's what we call it anyway.

Next is Bella. Is she a classic beauty or what?!

And last but certainly not least, it's Sophia. Precious.

Baby Photographer in Castle Rock, CO

2011-12-07T14:01:00.001-07:00

Well, so far so good... a bitterly cold week and not one reschedule!! Which is very good thing!

This morning I got to meet the lovely and talented Katelyn, she is 3 months old and perfectly precious!

Doesn't she look chic in her pearls!?

I think the one below will win my "Fave of the Day" love her baby blues!

So... we went to see Santa last night, we waited about 45 minutes. I was so bummed because ever since the girls were babies they have always let me snap my own pictures of the girls with Santa, but this year they have signs up that said they don't allow it anymore. Bummer! Sabrina tried asking Santa for an

I-Pad, luckily for us he told her that there is a shortage on I-Anything this year and that she better come up with another choice. Way to go SANTA!

Well, I gotta run... Until tomorrow! Cija

Infant Photographer in Castle Rock, CO

2011-12-06T14:56:00.001-07:00

Just trying to sneak in another sneak peek before it's time to head out to get the kiddos. The cold weather continues to keep us inside and today I was at Tyler's house for his 6 month shoot (he's a New and Growing Wishes Baby). Heather said she wanted to do a Christmas themed shoot and I was all over that!

Speaking of Christmas the Cooksey's are headed out for our annual visit to Santa this evening. It's a holiday favorite for me, Santa is fun but the real fun is going to St. Nick's to pick out our ornaments, what will the girls come up with this year???

Well, I am off!! See you back here tomorrow!

Family Photography in Castle Rock, CO

2011-12-05T23:48:00.001-07:00

I'm gonna sneak this one in before midnight. This super chilly weather pushed both of my shoot today inside (BOO!!!) I took some flash photos with the Porter family but of course my faves are the ones I took using only natural light. I can't help it, I am hopelessly addicted the yumminess of natural light. It is obvious that I will never embrace flash photography, it is just not my thing. Oh wait... that first one, that's a flash. I had a lot of fun working with Kevin and Kate. Kevin is my new best friend, he told me that he liked my hair! I love a man with compliments! (Fave of the day? The first picture of Kate by herself, seriously adorable!)

Okay, time for bed.

Baby Photographer in Castle Rock, CO

2011-12-05T22:51:00.001-07:00

Earlier today I ventured out into the frigid cold to play with Nicolas. This was my second time working with Nicolas and he once again delighted me with his inquisitive little mind.

Well, I am going to keep it short... I have another sneak peek to try and get up and it's very sleepy out tonight. I hope you enjoyed this little glimpse of my time with little Nicolas!!

Until next time!

Children's Photographer in Castle Rock, Co

2011-11-30T22:39:00.001-07:00

This is going to be the short blog entry in history! I am sick! Really sick and every part of body is screaming at me to go back and lay down.

So... these handsome boys are Luke and Cade, we did an in home shoot yesterday morning. I think they are cute, super cute and I adore their mom! (Steve is pretty okay too).

Okay, that is the Reader's Digest version of what I would have said had I felt better.

Nighty Night.

Photographer in Castle Rock

2011-11-29T14:44:00.001-07:00

So last night I was the Josh, Jennifer, Sam, Maddie & Logan and I loved every minute of it. They, like us, have a set of twins (Maddie and Sam) and a single (Logan), I believe she said they were 14 months apart (mine are 16 months apart). I felt like I was transported back in time.

Life was truly chaotic and absolutely sublime all at the same time! Diapers coming out of your ears and 3 babies all headed in opposite directions!

Maddie was so stinkin' cute in her red coat, ponies and red ribbons, in my mind I planned the most awesome little Red Riding Hood themed birthday party to go with the coat! (And Sam could be the wolf or the lumberjack depending on his favorite part of the story!!)

Logan is clearly the "heartbreaker" in the family with those dreamy eyes and white blonde hair!! He is sure to have lots of little ladies clambering for his attention.

Oh man... I just love the picture above Maddie is laughing so hard, Logan is all "What? What just happened?" and Sam is "Whoa... that was crazy!" (Yep, it had to be done, I had to pull out the champion winning "snort"!!)

And this handsome man, is Sam... A man of the sky. He aspires to be a pilot or maybe even an astronaut, clearly another lady's man!!

The above photo is probably my fave of the day... This is life with 3 under 3! Blissful, unexpected and down right exhausting!! love, Love, LOVE it!

There were too many of the kiddo's that I just adored but man, I love this picture of Maddie, those precious lashes and sweet berry lips and you can almost feel how soft her hair is! YUM!

Well, it's time for CARPOOL!! I am forcing myself to be excited!

See you tomorrow with Luke and Cade!

2011-11-26T17:38:00.001-07:00

I hope you are all enjoying your holiday weekend, mine has been just plain S-U-P-E-R!! For Thanksgiving we went to our church with 200 of our closest friends, the food was amazing and a super fun time was had by all. Yesterday was our annual trek to the mountains to find the perfect Christmas tree, we had great success. (I was supposed to take some family pictures for both Aimee and Ann but Cija forgot her camera!! ooops! I had my little digital point and shoot so we had to make do. Last night we stumbled upon the movie "Fireproof" and much to my surprise even the kids settle down to watch it. Then this morning Aimee and I went out for an early movie!! The guys went this afternoon and we cranked out a few more episodes of "Gilmore Girls". Presently it is chaos, the men have returned with pizza for dinner, my kids are singing at the top of their lungs while making garland for the tree and the Bendures are rushing out the door trying to make the 6:00 service.

But if we hit the rewind button and go back to Wednesday, we come to the subject of this post. Corrine, Randy and Courtney. I have actually known this family for a number of years, we used to be in the same Sunday school class at our old church, I haven't seen them in a long long while so it was fun to spend a little time with them. Hard to imagine the Courtney is now in college!! Where does the time go? Well, it is difficult to concentrate with all the hoopla so I am going to sign off. Until next time! Cija

Photographer in Castle Rock, CO - Kroger Family

2011-11-20T12:21:00.001-07:00

So yesterday morning, I met up with this lovely family... it was 27 degrees (they did not listen to my "dress warm" comments). It was cold! They were cold. But in the words of Chris, "It's not about being warm, it's about looking good!" I will agree with this statement when it comes to family with older kids, BUT this is absolutely NOT true when it comes to families with younger kids, a cold kiddo can make for a very miserable shoot... so I will say it again, "Dress warm!!"

Oh man... I do love this picture of Chris and Nicole.

So I knew I wanted to take a picture that would showcase these beautiful eyes. I think their eyes are stunning!

This is the lovely and talented Aubry or maybe it's Aubree, can I just have a disclaimer that says I am very sorry if I misspell your names... there is no disrespect intended.

My girlies just love her... "She's so cool!"

And this is Kate, or Katter's as they seemed to call her. What a sweet and beautiful young lady.

I can't help it but I am a little distracted. Melia got sick (the really gross kind, I don't even like to say it aloud) at church this morning. Now all I can picture is it spreading thru the house and making our Thanksgiving... yucky. I am still recovering from the winter of 2007... 6 weeks of you know what. It was horrible, I felt like there was a giant swirling green cloud over our house.

Okay, I am snapping out of it. I hope you enjoy Chris and Nicole's pictures...

I had the best time taking them!

Castle Rock, CO Photographer - Looney Family

2011-11-19T19:26:00.001-07:00

My feet are frozen! We went to the Star Lighting tonight... well, not exactly we didn't actually make it to the lighting part but we walked around froze our tookahsuses off, ate free cookies and admired some farm animals so all in all I would say it was a success.

These adorable children are Hailey (but my daughter said it's Hally, hmmm...) and Nick, they are a couple of pretty fun kids! Lots of giggling, funny faces and laughter

(isn't that the way it's supposed to be!!).

Love these two pics, they will get my vote for Fave of the Day! In the picture below they were trying so hard not to laugh and they just could help themselves!

I also love this "happy" picture of Heather and her sweet girl!

Well... I just heard a rumor about a game, I can't possibly miss a game!! So I am outta here!!

Enjoy the rest of your weekend.

Infant Photographer in Castle Rock, CO

2011-11-16T21:17:00.001-07:00

I love babies, wanna know why? Because babies don't know that it's cold outside. They are just so curious about why they are outside, sitting in a basket with two women singing songs and playing "peek-a-boo" that they never even realize that they are cold. It was ridiculously cold this morning and Clark, he was completely and totally oblivious. I love babies!!!

By the time they are 1 this phenomena ends, oh yes, they know they are cold and they are happy to let you know that they are cold!!

Oh the eyes... those dreamy eyes, I am in love.

Clark is such a sweet little boy... he is officially 6 months old and I get to see him every single month until he turns 1!! I know, how lucky am I!?!?

Well, I gotta run, my dough finally decided to raise so even though it's 9:30 at night, I need to make some strombolies! I hope they will still bake up nice tomorrow.

See you later! Cija

Maternity Photographer in Castle Rock, CO

2011-11-15T14:39:00.001-07:00

I got my hair done today! By Tracie... she's been my go to hair girl since 1990!!! Ha! 1990!! When did I get so old?!?!? Any who, she is all the way down in Cherry Creek and since I had kids it has been difficult to get down there, finding a sitter and all. But... now they are in school and I don't work for AKI anymore, so I was free to take 1/2 a day and go get my hair done.

I should take a picture, I look super glam-o.

It was like coming home really, there was hugging and I'm pretty sure there was a teary eye or two, AND Lori was there (she another stylist) which was just a big ole bonus. I enjoyed myself so much that I am going back in 2 weeks, but I'm not telling you the "what for" you will have to try and figure it out.

Then I met up with Stephanie and the caterer who is doing the food for A Night with the King (Christmas Banquet)... he wore a suit and everything! I was very impressed and I think they are going to do a fantabulous job (hey the auto spell check finally gave up on "fantabulous"!! we are making some progress).

I have 10 minutes before I had to leave to drive carpool... just enough time to get Denishar's sneak peek up. She is 36 weeks pregnant with her 1st baby. The jury is still out on the name, it seems mommy has one picked out but daddy is on the fence. I got be honest, I think 9 months of pregnancy plus labor and delivery earn mommy the right to name! I'm just saying'!!

Well... I will praying for a safe delivery and am excited to meet the new addition to the family!

For now I am off for my afternoon country ride. Until next time!

Cija

Photographer in Castle Rock, CO - McKee Family

2011-11-14T15:17:00.001-07:00

Do you remember the wind on Saturday? It was redonkulous! and yet, there was a photo shoot to be done. Chalyn was thrilled to hear that I would need her to cross a stream in her black heels to get to this particular location. (Besides... her feet weren't going to be in the pictures so it would be all good. At least I did asked her to walk up stream and stand in the middle of it, like I did Rebecca! Oh, settle down, I did it too... I won't ask you to do anything I'm not willing to do myself.)

So the suave' musician below is Christian, their oldest son. Love the grungy setting...

And the football player... is Colin (yes, there are photos with the football, but he just looked too handsome in this one to pass it up).

And this... is Joey and Chalyn. Ya, just gotta love 'em. Joey is the.... hmmm, I am not sure of his official title but I am going with Associate Pastor at our church, he basically does everything but preach (although sometimes he preaches too, when Pastor Brian is gone) it a big job, that takes an even bigger heart. Chalyn is his gee-or-gus bride, she runs the Children's ministry (although that does not clearly define all that she does. She goes to Costco, plans special events, sings on the worship team, helps with women's ministry, attends Bible College and all the while has a pretty and cheery smile on her face, a friendly hug and a listening ear for any one, any time they need it. She is a gem, the rare sparkly super expensive kind and Joey is uber blessed to have her as his wife.

Well, soon the cherubs will be home from school, so I must be off to finish up a few things before they arrive. Ooo... I almost forgot to tell you, today I had a shoot at 136th and I-25, so... naturally, I had to stop at Culver's for lunch, man, if Rod and I only had a gazillion dollars in assets we'd open one right here in Castle Rock! Culver's or Freddie's they are equally yummy-rific!

Okay Bye!

I am back... I just spent almost 2 hours working on "The Beatles" picture above, I think it is very cool, but... it is definitely ONE-OF-A-KIND!!! Phew... that was a lot of work!!

Family Photographer in Castle Rock, CO

2011-11-11T23:27:00.001-07:00

The Gregory Family

Yep, I am pulling another late night, I can't help myself... someone needs to organize an intervention.

This afternoon, I was with Sean (or Shawn), Amy, Max, Kimbal and Brooks. I absolutely love the picture of Kimbal below... I don't know why I am so drawn to it but I just love it.

This is Max and all he wanted was his picture taken in this cave. He looks purdy darn handsome!

The kids were busy rock climbing so we decided to get a few mom and dad shots in!

Fave of the day... the one below! Love it!

So we went bowling tonight. Can I first say... what is up with the price of bowling. Family of 5 - 2 games = $75, no, sadly that is not a type-o. I nearly fell over. Reminded me of the time I went into a tie shop in Tamarac Square to buy a tie for my boss. I picked out a very cool tie, took it up to the counter and prepared to hand over $20 - $30 bucks (1990 ish). $180!!! Are you kidding me for a tie???? I was too young and too stupid to say never mind and ended up buying the stupid thing. And ya know what... I never once saw my boss wear that tie!! In the words of Bon Qui Qui... "Rude!"

Oh well, we had a great time!!

Nighty Night!! Cija

Children's Photographer in Denver - Guy & Gigi

2011-11-11T11:29:00.001-07:00

Yesterday afternoon, I met up with Sadie and her sweet cherubs, Guy and Gigi. We met at Sadie's mom's house to take the photos. At one point I was laying in a pile of leaves hangin' out with Guy while Sadie was tending to Gigi (she wasn't feeling all that great yesterday). Any who, while laying there I glanced across the street and saw these two giant gold doors, the entry way to the neighbor's house. Wow! those were some very impressive doors at least 2 stories tall and all gold and shiny. You would think doors like that would lead someplace grand someplace extraordinary, certainly not a family home.

Those doors have stuck with me. The Cooksey's have been waiting... waiting for an open door to come along. I had been expecting it for so long that I had a picture of what it would like in my head. It was be easy to recognize and even easier to walk through.

Yesterday, we ran smack dab into that door all unlock and waiting for us... but it didn't look anything like I was expecting. I felt like Sully in Monster's Inc. "Are you sure that's Boo's door?" In fact I asked the same question, "Lord, are you sure that's our door?" I thought it would look different!

I imagine when the shepherd's ran to Bethlehem to see "The King" who had been born, they were surprised by the door that lead to him. It should have been two stories tall all gold and shiny but instead it was a wooden stable door, worn and tattered from the elements and yet that door, that worn and tattered door led to the greatest gift this world would ever know, Jesus, King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

I have no idea what lies behind our door but we will walk through it with great anticipation, looking forward to what the Lord has in store for us behind this door He has opened in front of us.

Now back to Guy and Gigi!! Seriously?! So cute!

I thought they were looking quite dapper in their Christmas best! And I especially LOVED Gigi's hat!! SO stinkin' cute!

Well, I must run... I have much to do! Have a great weekend!

Baby Photographer in Denver, CO

2011-11-08T17:45:00.001-07:00

I am back, but not for long... that rumored Date night is a for sure thing, I am just waiting for Melia to finish her homework and then I am outta here!!

This little doll face is Amelia, and this was her 6 month photo shoot, she, of course, was showing off her killer sitting up skills!!

Love this face sooo much I had to put it in here twice!

Having trouble picking my fave of the day, really love the 1st one, but these little profile are just too sweet!!

Can I just say that Amelia was a trooper!! It was down right chilly and she was positively perfect!

Okay, that is it for sneak peeks until Thursday, tomorrow is editing all the live long day and then SCIENCE NIGHT!!!

Be back soon!!

Cija

Family Photography in Castle Pines, CO

2011-11-08T14:52:00.004-07:00

Oh those weathermen, you just can't believe a thing they say... snow, no snow which is it?!?! We almost rescheduled this shoot because they promised it would be raining!! No rain. Thankfully we decided to push forward and try it anyway. It was a good decision.

So this is the Pfaff family, I know them from the church we used to attend, I can remember them being there as long as we were there, and that was a long time. In fact, I was a Jr. High sponsor when Jason and Jeremy were in Jr. High (a very, very young sponsor).

Then I got to know Erin when my kid's were in her Sunday School class. I love her!!! One of my absolute favorite lunch dates! (for the record this is Jenna not Erin... I should have coordinated my words and my pictures better)

I can't seem to remember exactly how Jenna and I hooked up, but I love her too!! She is the perfect friend to share a cup of coffee with AND she let me reorganize her pantry and cupboards one day while I was over, how cool is that!!!

Put 'em all together and you have one great big happy family!!

Today, I was with little Amelia (in the freezing cold), her sneak peek will be up tomorrow... but for now it is time to go get the kiddo's at school. Then... I heard a rumor there just might be a "date night" on the horizon, Rod and I could use a date night... in the fall, we are like two ships.

Bye Bye for now!!

Newborn Photographer in Castle Rock, CO

2011-11-07T14:20:00.001-07:00

Say "Hi" to Ryder. He is 8 days old (that's his mom and dad, Sara and John).

Isn't he just the most precious thing you have ever seen? Look how little he is!!

5lbs 11oz on his birthday.

This lovely lady, is big sister, Ella. She wuvs him, I can tell.

I fink mommy wuvs him too... hopefully I will stop typing in "accent" soon. So I wonder if the girls would let me snuggle up with them like that? Ya know... I think, maybe, they just might. I may have to try it.

Well, I hope you enjoyed the sneak peek... If the weather holds I will be crusin' outta here in 30 minutes for my family shoot with the Pfaff's.

And... you should know, I have a new wild hair. Spring cleaning!!! I am in the mood to purge! So if you live in this house and want to keep your stuff... HIDE IT!!!

Family Photographer in Denver, CO

2011-11-07T08:54:00.002-07:00

So on Saturday, I drove out to meet up with Geoff, Trisha and Kylie, as I got closer to Denver, the sky got darker and darker, so dark that I was concerned that I could even get a decent exposure with out a lot of grain and this girl wasn't about to pull out the flash... yuck, me no likey.

We talk for 2-3 minutes and mother nature made the decision for us... it started raining. Which meant we needed to reschedule to yesterday, which is usually my day off. Since Rod had orchestra practice I had to take the girls with me but they didn't mind because Nana met us at the park and took them out for ice cream.

Kylie is 4 and "a half", I have been taking her pictures every 6 months since she was 18 months old. She has grown up so much and has blossomed into a lovely little lady.

In the picture above, Kylie was trying really really hard not to smile... too funny!

Well, I must be off, I headed over to meet John and Sara's new baby boy!! I just love a newborn shoot and then later today I will be with the Pfaff family.

See you soon! Cija

Photographer in Castle Rock, CO

2011-11-06T20:50:00.001-07:00

It's Sunday night at 8:36 PM and my house is silent. There are 9 people here but all I can hear is the hum of my back up drive and the heat flowing through the vents. It's weird, down right creepy. Makes me wonder if there is fun going on somewhere in this house and I have been left out. I am fairly certain that my cherubs are in bed, but as for the Bendure's and Rod? I have no idea.

I would agree that it is tired out. If I didn't have so many pictures to edit and sneak peeks to get up, I do believe I would be tucking in early myself. Sometime bed is truly one of my very favoritest things!

So... I am feeling really terrible that I am having to turn so many folks away for christmas pictures. I am all booked up for the rest of the 2011, how in the world did this happen. I am so blown away with how the Lord has blessed and blessed and blessed my little business. And big ginormus

THANK YOU!!!!!

to all my wonderful customers!!!

So... I am thinking, what about New Year's pictures!??!? Ya know, start the year off with a fresh new family picture? Sounds like a good plan to me!! (Oh and I will be having another Boudoir special this year, so contact me for details. The special will apply to shoot between January 1st and February 14th.)

So Friday night (just before Bunco, and no... I did not win anything!! How is a girl supposed to compete with 5 BUNCOS!!), I met up with the Farmers. We did a few family pictures and then focused on Jacob and his 18 month photos. Isn't he handsome? Look out ladies, he is sure to be a heart breaker!

Ya just gotta love a guy who can pull off a "doggie" hat!!

I think the alley shoot is going to get my fave of the day, I can't put my finger on it, but I just love this shot! Well, I am off!! I will see you tomorrow!

Family Photography In Castle Rock

2011-11-04T11:21:00.001-06:00

Well we made it the weekend is here, we started a day early, no school today and Aimee is watching Talia's kiddos so we have a house with 9 kids today! Holy Moly!! But slowly we will get rid of some here and there. The Cooksey's are going birthday present shopping at 1:30 and then the two old Bendure kids are leaving around 2:00, which leaves Aimee with Mia and Talia's crew.

Last night I was in downtown Denver with the Hart family, the very chilly Hart family. Poor Tevor (above) he was positively frozen, he was just breakin' my heart!! Sydney (below) she was not lovin' our outdoor adventure either and was not open to leaving her mama's hip. Yep... mama's holding her.

Now Tyler on the other hand was just as happy as could be! I can't believe how much he has changed in the year since we was born. So... cute!

Love, love, love this picture of Art and Jaclyn!

This handsome young man is Blake, he too, was completely unaffected by the cold!

At the end of our shoot, the people working in this office were kind enough to let us come in for a few more pics.

Well, I am off... See you tomorrow!

Professional Headshots

2011-11-02T21:34:00.001-06:00

SNOW DAY!!! I was so happy that I didn't have to get out of bed this morning!! The kids actually spent the better part of the day outside which helped with the noise level. And this afternoon, we all headed outside for Christmas card pictures (even the Bendures!). We were quite a sight, Aimee in her high heeled boots, slippin' and slidin' all over the place and me with my mary janes and no socks (what's a girl who wears flip flops all the time need with socks?!?! But no worries, no frost bite! Took me a couple of hours to feel my feet and legs again, but in the end it was all good.

On Tuesday morning, I headed over to Heather's office, I should have gotten a suite number... I knew she was somewhere in the "Bling" building and I had I an idea of the type of business that she did, so I thought to myself "Precious, how hard can it be? I will just walk up and down the halls until I find a company name that sounds right." It was a fool proof plan, in the case where the company name was actually on the door. Oh well, I found them eventually and got to meet some

really nice people in the process.

Heather and her husband were in need of some snazzy pics for their new website and I was happy to help. (They don't even look cold do they? Oh... but it was cold!!)

The plan for tomorrow is to be with the Hart Family for an Urban Glam shoot... Oooo, that sounds fun!

But for now I am off, I need to work on my "gift" for my Bible study girls (it's my love language, I can't help myself!) Until tomorrow! Cija

Senior Pictures in Castle Rock, CO

2011-11-02T00:10:00.000-06:00

Good evening... are you enjoying the snow outside. I am now, that I am home tucked in safe and sound! Earlier tonight, my gal pal, Ann and I were at a MOPS meeting speaking on entertaining, since we live so far apart and only get to see one another here and there, we decided to maximize our time with dinner at Chili's afterwards. Yay, that might have been a mistake. Coming home was a mess... the roads weren't too bad yet but the visibility was horrible!! The only way you could see was to turn your headlights off, poor Ann had to drive all the way back to Arvada!!

But on Monday morning I met up with Jourdan and his mom Tina... ya know what?!?! He never rapped for me! I was robbed! Oh I totally need to put a picture on here of Jourdan rappin', he's pretty cool, I have a little crush, I can't help it!!

Baxter Rudy came along... he's the dog. Did you know that all dogs have middle names. I didn't know this, Snicker's doesn't have a middle name. But I am seeing a trend, Aimee's dog is Baxter Steven and then there is Zeustifer Bendure, hmmm... what is a good middle name for Snickers? Snickers... yay, I got nothin'. Tina and Jourdan also have Baxter voices, Tina's is a sorta of nasally cartoonish voice while Jourdan's has a foreign accent. DOODLE!!! That is Snicker's middle name, or Do Dah. Sometimes I call her Snicker doodle and other days I sing her song Snicker dee do dah, Snicker Dee aye, my oh my what a snicker dee day! Phew, I am glad I got that settled.

Well, somewhere along this post it turned into Wednesday so I am off to beddy bye! Oh wait, I almost forget the rappin' picture, I'll be right back... One moment please.

yay boy!

Nighty Night!

Cija

Photographer in Castle Rock CO

2011-10-30T23:23:00.000-06:00

Can I just start off by saying Rod almost beat me at Nertz this evening!! WHAT?!? is happening? Has there been a shift in the time continuum? First I find out that he is unusually good at shooting pool and now this! In fact, it wasn't until the last 2 hands that I actually caught and passed him!

Moving on... great weekend! We had our annual halloween bash on Friday night, I was a ghost (with some very cool make up I found on pinterest and Rod was Shaggy from Scooby Doo. Rod made his totally awesome chili and we played a wild game of pictionary (Have I told you this already, I am having a serious deja vu moment...). Saturday I met up with the Haberts for a family shoot (I brought my family along since Jon and I go way back). Twenty years back to be exact, how can that be when clearly I am sooooo young! I used to work with Jon at AKI (I am trying to figure out a way for Rod and I to get invited to the annual AKI Christmas party... I miss them!! I figure, Dean probably hasn't even started thinking about planning it, so I'll just plan it for him and show up!) We wrapped out the weekend with church this morning, Rod and the girls went and picked up trash along the the road with the Castle Rock Orchestra while Aimee and I caught up on some DVR'd shows, we had a yummy roast for dinner and finished out the night with nertz! Now... I must go to sleep, I have a shoot with Jourdan, first thing (and his mom promised he would RAP for me!) Nighty Night! Cija

Family Photography in Castle Rock, CO

2011-10-27T21:48:00.000-06:00

It's been a whirlwind of a week... this is actually the sneak peek from my shoot on Monday. Sorry it took so long Stephanie! I had a good time with the Ritter Family and hope to get to know them much better in the future. Things are slowing down a bit over the next few days, well... maybe not slowing down but it is filled with fun stuff, pumpkin craving, a costume party and just hanging with the family!! I am looking forward to it! I will see you again next week! Cija

In Loving Memory of Eliza Love...

2011-10-26T00:05:00.000-06:00

Eliza Love

October 25, 2011

6:25 AM

5.2oz, 8.5 inches

Daddy and Mommy - Colin & Amity

Big Sister - Eleary

Loving Savior - Jesus Christ

Where does one begin to write a story filled with such deep and passionate emotion?

Perhaps all I can do is share it from my perspective.

About 3 months ago, I was working the Welcome Desk at church with my sweet friend, Amity. She spilled the beans that she had taken a pregnancy test and it was positive but they weren't going to tell anyone until they were past the first trimester. Having lost two babies of my own, I encouraged her to celebrate her baby's life whether it was 50 years or just a few weeks and reminded her that her baby was a precious gift from God, one to be treasured and cherished for as long as she was blessed to have it.

About a week later, Amity had a scare, they couldn't find the heart beat and the doctor told her she was probably miscarrying. A week of prayer and blood tests later, everything was fine and her baby was due to be born on April 3, 2012.

Monday evening I returned home from a photo shoot with kids in tow and a bag of Jimmy John's sandwiches. Having lost my cell phone I thought I better check my emails real quick to make sure there was nothing pressing. Tucked between photo orders and booking requests I saw an email with the subject line " Prayer Request". It was from Colin, Amity's husband, they had been at the doctor for a routine check up (17 weeks) and the baby had no heart beat, they were going to the hospital where labor would be induced and the baby delivered. I called Colin immediately to see if Amity wanted me to come. He said yes, but to take my time because Sung had arrived and they were not alone.

Sung would be the perfect person to be there, while I had grieved two babies lost during pregnancy

I had not walked through a delivery... Sung had. She would be a tender and safe place to fall. This morning as Amity and I snuggled together and admired her precious daughter, Amity said "It amazes me how God always fills in the gaps for me, how he brings people into my life right when I need them." He amazes me too. Sung cared for their broken hearts in a way that blessed Amity and Colin deeply.

Eliza, which means "Consecrated to God" was delivered at 6:25 this morning and I marveled at her tiny yet perfect form, as Amity said "she is wonderfully and fearfully made". Amity and Colin spent several hours with Eliza this morning and as the held her and each other on the bed, Amity said "I feel like we should lift her up to the Lord." With tears streaming down their faces they raised their precious baby toward heaven and offered a prayer of thanksgiving, it was a moment my words could never describe, but I feel honored and humbled to have been able to witness it.

Please say a prayer for my sweet friends as they grieve the lost of their baby girl on this side of Heaven, while they rejoice to know that she is held in the arms of Jesus,

their hearts are heavy with having to let her go.

It was important to Amity and Colin to share the story of their little Eliza Love for they know her life is not with out meaning. I also know that it would be Amity and Colin's deepest desire for you to know that just as God created their little girl, He also created you and He loves you more than you could ever know; and that He offers you the gift salvation through His son Jesus.

"If you confess with your mouth, "Jesus in Lord" and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." Romans 10:9

Hugs my sweet, friends.

Photographer in Castle Rock CO

2011-10-24T15:20:00.000-06:00

Well, it's Monday. And this is the Lane Family. We hung out on Saturday night. Everything went smoothly right up until Serina mentioned that she is always scared of snakes in the long grass... then I was scared of snakes in the long grass! It wasn't all that long ago that I saw 2 snakes on one shoot! YUCK! But regards of being super jumpy I never did see a snake!

After their shoot we had a couple night out with Matt and Aimee, dinner at Hacienda Colorado and then the arcade and pool at Dave and Busters. Can I just say... I stink at both! I didn't shoot one zombie, I repeatedly crashed my motorcycle, and clearly I am not a "Galactic Pilot!" Pool was not any better, oh well it was still super fun!! Well, I am off to my shoot with the Ritter family. See you soon! Cija

Family Photographer In Castle Rock, Co

2011-10-21T23:20:00.000-06:00

So this is Martha and her beautiful family. Martha and I met in the church youth group when we were in high school... years later we reconnected on Facebook.

This is her oldest daughter, Mandy, she looks a bit like Taylor Swift don'tcha think?!?

So stinkin' photogenic, there wasn't a bad picture of her in the whole shoot!!

This sweet girl is Abby. She is the actress of the family, she has had roles in Peter Pan and Alice in Wonderful, just to name a few.

Okay, you may think I am weird but... I just love the way they are holding hands. You can see how the years have made them so comfortable with one another LOVE IT!!

(That's Mitch by the way, Martha's hubby!!)

And this little guy is Matt. He was very interested in hunting' for deer... so cute!!

I just wanted to squish 'em!!

The pic below of Mitch and "Marf" gets my "FAVE of the Day"!

I love absolutely everything about it!!

Well, it's time I head off to bed. Tomorrow will be a long day of ghosts and goblins coming to get their Halloween pictures taken and then I off to met up with the Lane's for their family shoot.

Until next time!! Cija

Photographer in Castle Rock CO

2011-10-21T11:49:00.001-06:00

We made it!! It's Friday! Lots and lots to do today. Shoots, editing, shopping, a trip to the bank, and gearing up for tomorrow's Halloween Photo Day!! (Tomorrow from Noon until 4:00 incase you are interested in stopping by to have your kiddo's picture taken in their costumes).

Matt is also coming home for the weekend, a couples night out is on the agenda!! WooHoo!!!

But last night I was with Kerrie, Sean and Scarlet. The weather was amazing, could not have been better!! Scarlet's mom had warned me that she's usually pretty shy... and she was, but I think we made our way through it quite well. I was head over heels for those pigtails! Some of my very favorite pictures of the day were the totally unscripted photos of them rolling around in the grass. Love Love love them!

Hope to see lots of you tomorrow at the Halloween Photo day!!!

Until later, Cija

Okay, quick funny story. I am sitting at my desk editing and Melia is laying on the couch watching "19 kids and counting". They are talking about one of the boys entering into a courtship relationship with a young lady he know, they explain the difference between a dating relationship (intimacy before commitment) and a courtship relationship (commitment before intimacy) and went on to talk about how this couple talked about it and have decided that they will not kiss during their courtship. All of the sudden Melia pops up "Mom?" I braced myself wondering what type of question this show may have spurred... "I'm a tanner than Matt?" Oh bahaha!!!

Family Photographer In Castle Rock, Co

2011-10-19T17:57:00.000-06:00

I am little distracted... I just sent the entire day at the Spa. The Copperfalls Aveda Spa to be exact. I was the very fortunate benefactor of Aimee and Matt's anniversary. Matt is out of town, working in Lousiana, so he planned a day at the spa for his beautiful bride AND thought to send a friend along with her. I WAS THE FRIEND!! I am a very happy friend. I have never spent the day at the spa before, I am a fan. A Big Fan!! I have decided that I need a towel warmer in my family room, what a wonderful thing! I am not sure how long the spa induced coma will last and I wonder if I have any chance staying awake at church tonight! No offense Pastor Brian!!

But back to the reason I am here in the first place. The Pfaff family. We hung out last night. Don't they have the sweetest girls ever? Kate, Claire and Stella... precious. I always enjoy my time with this family, Erin is a bright spot in my little world and one of my favorite lunch dates (speaking of which, "Erin! We need to do lunch!" You have me hooked on that salad at The White Chocolate Grill.

Well, I hope you enjoy the sneak peek, I am off to get ready for church. See you soon! Cija

Broken Hearts

2011-10-19T08:36:00.000-06:00

So many of you have been faithful to pray with me over the years. Since April of 2009, we have been praying for Mike, husband and father of 3 little boys. Last Wednesday, Mike passed away after a battle with cancer. Please be praying for his precious wife and 3 little boys.

Dear Heavenly Father, If I let my mind linger here for more than a couple of minutes I find that the tears start to flow. I can not begin to image what Shanna must be feeling right now, the mother of 3 little boys and life time ahead of her and absence of her best friend and husband. Lord, hold her. May she turn to you for comfort and strength. Be with her precious boys, comfort, lead and provide for them. In the name of Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen

Family Photographer In Castle Rock, Co

2011-10-17T16:33:00.001-06:00

Ummm.... where did the nice weather go? I should be on my way to meet a family of three but this rain has thrown a monkey wrench in things, so instead I am off to the Library with Aimee to get a movie.

But before the weather turned yucky and before our car was assaulted by a deer I was with Miles and his mom and dad.

Miles and I tried to hang out a couple weeks ago but he was getting some new teeth and wasn't feeling at all well, so we decided it would be best to try again another time.

Isn't he handsome??!?!

I love this picture of Miles and his mommy!! So cute!

Well, the weather was beautiful and the family was beautiful and it was pretty much a perfect shoot!!!

Hopefully this weather will shape up and we will be back out there again tomorrow.

Until next time! Cija

In an instant

2011-10-16T23:12:00.000-06:00

It's 10:30PM and all the members of my household have found their way to bed. I too, am tired, but my mind is busy and racing with the "what ifs" and "what could have beens".

I am grateful.

Grateful that once again, my Heavenly Father has graciously pour out protection over my family. There are so many times that these kinds of stories have a different ending. A tragic ending.

Tonight my husband and my daughter, Sabrina, left after dinner to run to the store. Sabrina was complaining of a headache and we were out of Children's Tylenol. Tomorrow is also the first day of fall break, so it seemed a good night to make cookies and stay up a little later than normal. While Aimee washed the dinner dishes, I started working on the cookie batter and Rod and Sabrina headed to the store for Tylenol and peanut butter chips.

Rod was driving home from the store; he was on the frontage road just east of I-25 going the speed limit of 55mph, when all of the sudden his eye saw something on the dark road just in front of him. It was a deer, right there in the middle of his lane just feet away. Instinctually he swerved to miss it, but there just wasn't time. His car slammed into the deer. The deer's antler went through Rod's windshield, thankfully neither Rod or Sabrina were hurt. When they got home, Sabrina ran in with the news, we all ran outside to survey the damage. My first thoughts were "what is it with this car!!" We had to buy a replacement car for Rod a few months ago, after the axel on his truck came apart while driving down I-25 (another miracle of God's protection!! Just picture driving down I-25 and your 2 back wheels fly off your car! Imagine what could have happened. But God intervened and got Rod and the tires to the side of the road with out any one getting hurt or any kind of accident). We had the new car for about a month when Rod was caught in a terrible hail storm, it took them close to 2 months to fix it, we have only had it back for a few weeks and now it's a mess again. My mind raced with all the questions, will insurance cover it? Will they total the car? Will we have to find another car? On and on... As we came back inside and tried to move on with our evening my thought shifted gears. What if that antler had come a little further through the window? What if the car would have veered into oncoming traffic or rolled off the side of the road? Our losses could have been much greater, and cut much deeper. Rod and I gathered the girls in the kitchen and took a moment to pray, a moment to thank God for His loving protection. Our stories do not always have "happy" endings, but I am grateful that tonight it was part of God's plan to protect my family.
My heart is heavy for those who's story have not ended in the same way as mine. My prayer is that you will find comfort in the arms of our Savior, Jesus Christ, one who is not surprised by the unexpected object in the road.

My prayer's tonight are specifically with Nicole, who was in a terrible ATV accident yesterday, she sustained serious injuries, please been praying for her and her family.
And take the time to hold those you cherish a little bit longer and a little bit tighter. XOXO Cija

Photographer in Castle Rock CO

2011-10-15T21:33:00.001-06:00

I hope you are all having a fabulous weekend. So far mine has been delightful. We had the football game last night, the girls rocked it out, we froze... you could tell we were newbies all the veterans had gloves, jackets and blankets!! This morning I enlisted help from 8 or our 9 peeps to help whip the house into shape, it looks fabulous! Aimee and I made some fabulous italian beef sammies for dinner, did a couple of Halloween shoots this afternoon, for some folks who will be out of town and then... I met up with this colorful family (love the colors!!!). Let's see if I can remember all the names. Hmmm... I am trouble already, I don't know grandma's name. Just Grandma... she is 93!! I want to be her when I grow up! Then there was her daughter, Carolyn or Caroline (oh boy, I am not off to a good start!) and her hubby, Larry. Their two kids, Molly, who is married to Nick and Zach who is married to Francine and then there are the baybeez!! Keeley and Nora.

Keeley is above... yep, you recognize her, she is one of my milestone beauties, already 9 months old!!! No stinkin' way. Below is Norma, or Lola as I like to call her. I have no idea, I am blaming it on Aimee as she had me rockin' out to Barry Manilow yesterday in the car (with Yellow Feather's in her hair...).

I AM IN LOVE!!!!!!

SERIOUSLY... COULD THEY BE ANY CUTER????

NOPE, NO WAY, NAHDAH!! THE CUTEST!

4 Generations, pretty cool. That doesn't happen all that often does it?

Such sweetness, I loved Lola's, I mean Nora's sweet little curls and her precious little lips! (I liked her boots too!)

Oh the TOES!!! You know how much I LOVE the toes!!! and they are all tippy on top of it! I can't stand it!!! It's too much!

Love this one on Molly, Nick and Keeley!! Well, it's 9:30 on Saturday and my husband is arm's length away on the couch watching one of the Bourne movies, it's time I go curl up on the couch with him!! Nighty Night!

Photographer in Castle Rock CO

2011-10-14T13:40:00.000-06:00

Oh man, my photo shoot this morning was such a treat!! I love working with couples! This is Meagan and Stephen. They are planning a lovely Rocky Mountain Wedding in Estes Park next May.

The picture below is my fave of the day!!! I love, love, love it!! But I love, love, love most of their pictures, like the one above, I love the playfulness between the two of them. Meagan has her masters in English (I joked that my free spirited spelling will likely make her cringe!!) and Stephen is in the Navy (home on R&R).

It was a beautiful morning to be out and about!! I am so excited for tonight, the girlies went to a cheerleading camp at Ponderosa High School last Friday and tonight they get to cheer at the game and preform the half time show!! Should be a really fun night!! 7 shoots next week so you will be seeing a lot of me here!! Until next time! Cija

Family Photographer In Castle Rock, Co

2011-10-12T18:00:00.000-06:00

Say "Hi" to F. F is pretty cool. He is just about to turn 4 years old, and he is going to Monkey Business to celebrate, he is particularly excited about Morgan and Carly joining him there.

He said I could come next year.

These are his parents, L&B, such sweet kisses!

Oh man, I just love that smile, I do believe he could light up a whole room with that smile!

Love this picture of them walking through the woods... while actually L&B were walking but F was jumping!! I love capturing those moments when kids are just being kids!!

I love the mommy shot too... there is just something special about a mommy and her babies. Too cute.

It was a beautiful night for a photoshoot and L, B & F made for a beautiful family.

Well, it seems my family wants to have dinner, it's the same thing every night!! So I better get to it.

Until next time. Cija

Family Photographer in Lone Tree, Colorado

2011-10-11T22:09:00.001-06:00

So... this is my 400th post!! That seems somewhat note worthy! Okay, that is all I have to say about that. This is the Kinder family. I enjoyed my time with them very much, just an easy going group of people to hang out with. Except I kept calling both girls by one name, I would tell you that name but for the life of my I can figure out how you spell Kenzy. Poor Zoe, she was simply known as Kenzy #2.

I love this picture of the real Kenzy (I know I must be spelling that wrong but we are just going to accept my short comings and let it go, Okay? Okay.) the blue sky was reflecting so beautifully in the water behind her.

Zoe had this spunky little personality that I just fell in love with, I suppose her free spirit reminded me of my little Sabrina.

Ah... Bob and Kelly such a cute couple and fun to photograph!

Love the feet, you know me, I always love the feet!!

Love this one in the Rose garden too, I love how Kelly has her hand on Bob's face. There is simply nothing more romantic than a kiss that includes a hand on the face... nothing!

Well, that does it for the sneak peek of the Kinder family. I hope you enjoyed it! I must go to bed now, we have to be to school early for parent teacher conferences. I will be back with tomorrow or Thursday with another sneak peek!! Until then! Cija

Baby Photographer In Lone Tree, Co

2011-10-10T19:53:00.001-06:00

I know what you are thinking... "Precious. Positively Precious!!" Yep, she is! So stinkin' CUTE!!! This is Stella and she is 1 year old! This was the last of her Milestone Photos... BOO!!!

Stella's mom said that she is going through a phase where she is not quite walking and not to crazy about being set down, so we decided that I would come to her house, the place where she is the most happy. I just love that little squinty face!!

Oh man!! I just couldn't help myself!! It's just too cute and all us moms need to know that all your kids pick their noses from time to time!!

We must stand up, united and determine that it will not define us as mothers!!

Stella loved playing with this apple!! Erin and Grandma thought maybe it felt good on her tender gums. Again... just so stinkin' cute!!!

Well, I truly enjoyed my time with little Stella, she is such a sweet baby girl!

For those of you who have been praying for our Great Niece, Caitlyn I wanted to give you an update. The doctor's determined that she was now strong enough to undergo surgery for the placement of her feeding tube. She had the surgery early today and did just great and the best news of all was that she came right off the ventilator after surgery. Praise the Lord!! Thank you for all your prayers! You can now follow Caitlyn's story at http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/caitlynsexton/mystory

Until next time, Cija

Photographer in Parker, CO

2011-10-10T13:53:00.000-06:00

On Friday, before all the wedding festivities began I met up with Liberty "Libby" and her parents. It was a super chilly day with lots and lots of wind but Libby was a trooper and we bundled her all up to keep her warm. Libby is 3 months old!! Her mom and dad are marking her first year milestones with the the New and Growing Wishes package, so we will see her again a 6, 9 and 12 months. What a sweet little girl she is, I just love her sweet sweet smile. Well, I am off. I hope to be back soon with a sneak peek of Stella. Until next time. Cija