So much has happened in the last few months, including lots of changes. Back in August, our area was greatly devastated by Hurricane Harvey…it left a path of mass destruction all along the Gulf Coast of Texas, and brought about 64 inches of rain into our area. We experienced mass flooding, and thousands of homes and businesses were affected. Unfortunately, my own studio was included in the wreckage; we had about three and a half feet of water in the studio, and it took several days for it to recede enough for us to begin cleanup. I felt heartbroken and discouraged, because so much was lost and destroyed in the flooding. There were tireless and weary days of cleaning and figuring out how to move forward. Once the word got out about what had happened to our studio, I was immediately blown away by the blessings and love that poured out from photographers and vendors across the US and internationally! Boxes began pouring into my mailbox, filled with beautiful items to replace what I had lost. I cannot begin to express the gratitude I feel for those that had a part in putting my studio back together. As the cleanup finally came to an end, I started to think on how I could make it even better than before, and I had hope I could do so. The search began, across Pinterest and other inspirational sites, and I pulled my new dreams together. I knew I wanted a crisp and clean look, and we went with shiplap walls (a’la Chip and Joanna’s Magnolia Market). It has become my favorite wall in the newly refurbished studio space.

I couldn’t have had a sweeter family to showcase this newly installed wall; Cade and Kristi are delightful parents to Arlee, who turned three in November. As a family, they enjoy being outdoors, going to the lake, and watching Chipmunks (Arlee’s favorite show). “We love being parents, and feel blessed to watch our daughter grow, learn new things, and tell us I love you BIG MUCH“, says Kristi. She and her husband have been married for five years, and were so sweet and loving during their session. Every session means so much to me, but moreso after the difficult flooding we experienced. I will always think of the many people who loved and cared for us enough to help us rebuild, every time I look at this beautiful wall. It’s a wall that represents hope, and I couldn’t be more grateful.