- amy nave -

Hay, red wagon, and pumpkins = Children's paradise:)

2010-01-02T09:58:00.000-08:00

Wow has it really been over six months since I've posted??? Yikes! Well, lots to get everyone caught up on. However, I really feel like facebook is the way to follow people now a days;)

The first post goes to my good friend Kendra and her two BEAUTIFUL little girls. I went to visit them a few months ago and every time I'm with them I'm reminded how on-the-go children are. Kendra is the best mom ever and stays calm, collected, and is just so loving. I have learned so much from her and really admire her in so many ways.

We took the girls to a pumpkin patch to play around at, and let me tell you, you would've thought they were at Disney Land. It was the cutest thing. Pulling them away was a bit difficult, as you can imagine ;)

Here are just a few pictures that I took while we were there. Kendra, I can't wait to visit you again! Love ya!

A blessing in my life!

2009-06-16T18:32:00.001-07:00

Today is my Mom's birthday and I'm so sad that I can't be there to celebrate with her and my family. For those of you who have met my mom, know just what an AMAZING women she is. There is know one like her and I feel truly blessed to have her as my own mom. She's everything that I hope to be in my own life. She's a godly, virtuous, gentle, loving, hilarious, giving, beautiful women who has a heart of gold. She is always positive and rarely did I ever see her get down or sad growing up. She always looks at the bright side. I remember growing up and how we weren't allowed to say the word BORING. If ever we said that her response was "that means you're boring" and just knowing my moms outlook on life, there was never a reason or time that allowed for one to be bord. Because life is wonderful with so many amazing opportunities just waiting for one to grab ahold of. Even when she lost a leg to cancer at the age of 21, or falling and being put in a wheelchair around the age of 45, she still lived life to the fullest. She finds joy in even the small things and brings joy to everyone she encounters. She loves her family with all her heart and truly is my biggest fan. I don't deserve her but yet God thinks I do and I'm so thankful for every memory and moment that I've gotten and will continue to spend with her.

Mom, my cup runneth over! I love you to the moon and back.
Love your biggest fan, along with Mandy and Dad of course:)
Amy

A Beautiful New Friend!

2009-04-22T17:28:00.001-07:00

This last weekend our friend Shannon came out to visit us for a fun filled weekend. It's really crazy how our paths crossed. We first met Shannon when Janey, Emily and I volunteered at The Dream Center. We fell in love with her right away and started planning a trip for her to come visit us in Santa Barbara. We'd been planning this trip for a while and couldn't wait for her arrival:) Every day was spectacular and we were definitely on the go while she was here! We introduced her to many of our close friends, she wrote a song with Jon, got to hangout at the beach, go on a hike, and just had great conversations:) It was a perfect weekend! Shannon We miss you and we feel so blessed and thankful to have you as a friend!

One thing that we learned about Shannon is she has an amazing voice. Sounds alot like Taylor Swift:) So on Saturday, Annemarie, Emily and I decided to do a photoshoot with her. Her smile and laugh is contagious and she was a joy and delight to be around. We had a blast doing the photoshoot and every once in awhile I would grab a quick shot of the girls snapping away:) They're amazing photographers and I love how they'll do anything to get the shot:)

Here's a few of our fun photoshoot:)

Slideshow Saturday!:)

2009-04-11T13:06:00.000-07:00

So I'm calling this my slideshow Saturday, because I've decided to dedicate most of the morning and afternoon to working on slideshows:) Here's one of the slideshows that I put together for the Beautiful Kertson family that's in the post below:) Ok now I'm off to enjoy the beautiful outdoors that keeps calling my name:)

I hope everyone has a wonderful Easter!

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE SLIDESHOW

A beautiful family!

2009-04-08T17:02:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how time flies. Seriously it felt like it was just yesterday that Kendra and I were in high school, taking music appreciation classes together, paying on the varsity volleyball team, swing dancing, and going on week long camping trips together. Kendra has been one of my closest friends for awhile now. I was one of her bridesmaids in her wedding and then I blinked and next thing you know she has two precious girls:) They are the most adorable gorgeous girls I have even seen. All I have to say is I'M IN LOVE:) Right when I met Peyton, the oldest, she looked at me and said "Kiss". My heart melted:)

I drove up to Santa Cruz this weekend to spend some time with Kendra, Brandon, and their two girls. It was a weekend full of love and laughter. Kendra, thank you for such an amazing weekend. I love how we're able to pick up right where we left off. Peyton and Amber are beautiful just like you:)

Maid of Honor 101 :)

2009-03-26T16:54:00.000-07:00

So, if you've ever been a Maid of Honor, any help or advice would be greatly appreciated:P My sister is getting married in September and today I decided to look up the "duties of the maid of honor". I'm proud to say that I've finished half the list and even done a few extra things that aren't even on the list:) On the other hand I didn't realize how many things I would be in charge of on the actual wedding day. I'm like WOW, I hope I have time to brush my teeth and comb my hair. LOL...... Then on top of it I have to give a speech. YIkes! I'm definitely a cryer when it comes to talking about people that I hold dear to my heart, and my sister is one of the most important people in my life so this is going to be interesting. Just the thought of having to write out what she means to me makes me cry. Emily and Janey, you might have to finish my speech for me if I start squealing:) So get ready! I remember giving my toast at Janey and Mark's wedding and I seriously had to practice it two times. The first time I practiced my speech I couldn't finish. LOL, it was hilarious.

I'm so proud of you, my baby sister! You my dear are beautiful inside and out. You never seize to amaze me with just how wonderful you are. You're servant's heart, loyality, truthfulness, faithfulness, fun, loving, and giving personality are just a few reasons why I know Ray loves you so!

I LOVE LOVE LOVE YOU!

Here's a few images that I took of Ray and Mandy a few months back. Oh and I've also included the toast that I gave at Janey and Mark's wedding. Thanks Gary for being my biggest fan during the whole thing:P

Amy toasts at Janey's wedding! from GARY FONG on Vimeo.

More Cayamo:) JUST ENJOYING LIFE:)

2009-03-13T23:16:00.001-07:00

Vacation for me is usually a couple of days of relaxation without my computer, but a full powered phone right by my side, or vise versa. It becomes a bad habit of always having one or the other. This vacation was completely different and it was soooooooo wonderful. It was a week with no phone or computer and 100% of full relaxation. Great conversations with one of my best friends 100 times a day:), meeting new people, great music, and time to just reflect. It was exactly what I needed. Don't get me wrong, I love my life in Santa Barbara, my business, computer, phone, etc. I feel completely blessed and thankful but sometimes you need a break from the fast paced life and the go, go, go, schedule that always seems to be jammed packed with things. It's wonderful to take a break and I highly recommend it! If you can't take a week trip that's fine, just make a point to take slow down and enjoy life during the week. If you don't, you'll find that life will pass you by. So slow down and take some time and spend it with the ones you love, go for a run, walk, or hike, get outside and take your camera with you just for fun, sit and just be still for a second, the options are endless and it doesn't have to cost you any money:)

I brought my camera and took some pictures to document the trip. Here are a few of the non-point and shoot images:)

I hope everyone has a relaxing and lovely weekend and remember that life is precious and you only live once, so make it count!

A Blessing in my life

2009-03-10T10:12:00.000-07:00

SMILE WE'RE BACK:) I'll post about our trip soon but this post deserves a much higher priority:)

As I was headed home from one of the most relaxing/amazing vacations that I've had in a while, I had some time to reflect and think about just how beautiful life truly is. I've been truly blessed in so many ways, and one of the ways that I've been blessed is with an amazing father who I adore. HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD! From the very beginning my dad has set amazing examples of how to be a father, husband, godly man, business man, and how to love your neighbor as yourself. He's set an example of how one should set their priorities; God, Family, and then himself.

One of the first examples of just how amazing he is, is told through the encounter of how my mom and dad first met. It's one of the most amazing love stories, and to this day I still love hearing about it (the whole story deserves it own post so stay tuned). Life was extremely busy for him at that time, he was going through finals and finishing up chiropractic school, so finding the love of his life wasn't high priority on his list, or so he thought. When he first met my mom he told her that he wouldn't be able to call her for a couple of weeks due to finals. Being the amazing lady that my mom is, she totally understood. But it was love, and two days later he called, despite his hectic final schedule. And she's been the love of his life ever since:) To this day you can still see the love that they have for each other. I can even picture them down the road at the ripe old age of 80, holding hands and saying I love you:)

Then there was the time, when I was a little girl, I remember my dad working some crazy hours trying to build his Chiropractic business so he could support the family. He would work from 9 to 9 sometimes and even though he was so extremely tired when he walked through the door, he still mustered up the energy to swing me around the room and dance with me to one of my favorite movies, Alice and Wonderland (the non-cartoon version:). I still remember the exact words of how the song began and what my dad would say to me, "I take your hand and now we're dancing". To this day, dancing is one of my favorite things to do and I give the credit to my dad as being the one who introduced the love of dancing to me.

It's the memories of my dad spending every free moment he had with his family, pitching a tent in the front yard, sleeping on the tranpolene with us girls during the summer, playing softball, dancing, horse back riding, wrestling with us, working hard so that my mom could be a stay at home mom, reading the bible with us as a family, and the list goes on.

Dad I love you more then you will ever know. You have been my hero for 25 years and I thank God for you everyday. You are a gift from God, a blessing to the whole family, and my cup runneth over.

Love your baby girl:)

CAYAMO HERE WE COME!

2009-02-27T03:32:00.000-08:00

So the day has finally arrived! Emily and I are on our way to experience one of the most amazing cruises out there. Most of you have heard us talk about it for months, but we'll be cruisin the sea with around 35 different musicians on the Cayamo cruise ship. AHHHHH!!!! We both appreciate and have a strong love for music, so the thought of going to a concert every day for 7 days is heavenly:)

I'm really excited to just relax. To wake up in the morning, spend some time in my devotions, grab a cup of coffee, sit outside, lay outside, drink more coffee, and stuff my face:P Oh, and with Emily around I'm sure we're going to meet everyone and their mom:) hehe! Which should be fun!

I'll try to keep you up to speed with the many adventures that we're going to be experiencing, but internet access may be scarce.

Have a wonderful week everyone!

XOXO

Click here to read more about the Cayamo cruise, and to see who's performing/who we'll be hanging out with:)

The Bath House Girls

2009-02-24T23:57:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite quotes is "A friend is a flower that never fades". I think I was in junior high or elementary school when I came across that quote, and I believe and know it to be true:)

Below is a photograph of four of the most amazing girls that I know. They are true, honest, virtuous girls who I'm so blessed to know. Not only are they amazing friends but at one point every single one of them lived in the "Bath House", which is another reason why we became so close:) The Bath House is a cute little beach house located in Santa Barbara. We have all been there for each other through the happy, sad, anxious, crazy and good times. Cry with laugh with, it doesn't matter they're there and they're all extremely dear to me:)

Meredith, who is in the middle just moved away and is going on a mission trip to Nigeria. Keep her in your prayers. Meredith, we miss and love you above and beyond:)!

Rain then Shine!!!!

2009-02-11T15:48:00.000-08:00

This last saturday I shot an incredible wedding in Ventura. However, the night and morning before it poured, and I kept telling myself "all we need is five minutes of no rain". LOL ........ Well, it stopped raining in the early afternoon and turned out to be extremely beautiful the rest of the day. Not only was it beautiful outside, but Jaime and Bjarne are the cutest couple that just made my day even more enjoyable. Jamie is the type of person who is beautiful inside and out and I felt so lucky to capture their amazing day. And Bjarne is the sweetest, A +++++ kinda guy. Bjarne is from Denmark, and Jamie is from the States, so of course you wonder how on earth did they meet while living oceans apart. A CRUISE! Isn't that adorable:) I love how their story is so unique and special. What's even more adorable is how Bjarne just adores Jamie. His eyes scream "you're my everything"!:)

Jamie and Bjarne, you two are amazing! I feel very fortunate to have met you! Enjoy the beginning of the rest of your lives together:)

Much love
XOXO

Oh and a big thank you to Emily for coming along and shooting with me. Ain't no sunshine without you:P haha!

Click here to see Emily's blog:)

Opening my eyes!

2009-02-06T11:03:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday Janey, Emily and I headed down to LA and volunteered at the Dream Center. When I contacted them a few weeks back I e-mailed them asking if they had any need for photography. A day later Shannon, who volunteers at the Dream Center, e-mailed me and said they had a huge need. So we were excited to use our photography and help in any way that we could.

At first the three of us had thought about staying together all day since we would be going into areas that we weren't familiar with such as Compton, Skidrow, and downtown LA:) Well the Lord had something different in Mind. Right when we arrived we were greeted by the sweetest amazing girl Shannon. She's someone who we are so excited to call our friend. She had three different projects that she wanted us to cover which meant we had to split up. We didn't mind and I'm so glad that we stepped out of our comfort zone.

The project that I covered was the food truck adopt a block. I loaded up in a truck with tons of produce and canned goods and headed down town. As we approached the site my eyes were in shock by the amount of people waiting for food. I couldn't believe the need was so great. As the volunteers passed out food to all the families, I had to fight back the tears. Right afterwards we headed back to the Dream Center where the whole center was filled with children from the surrounding area. They do a Bible study with them, play games, and feed them.

I learned and was reminded so much from the volunteers who so willingly and cheerfully volunteer every Saturday. First thing is a servants heart is a beautiful thing and one of the many examples of how Christ wants us to live our lives. 2. I was reminded that yes a meal relieves the hunger pain for a few hours, but a hug, smile, and kind words can make someone's day 3. I need to branch out of my comfort zone more often:). 4. I need to be less selfish, because giving is WAY better then receiving. 5. That there's a need and cry for help everywhere. Hunger, pain, and suffering not only exsists in different countries, or an hour and a half away, but it also exsists right next door. So open your eyes!

Click here to check out the DREAM CENTER. It's AMAZING! We're putting together a slideshow so stay tuned:)

Also a big THANK YOU to Shannon for being so wonderful and making us feel so welcomed from the very moment we contacted the Dream Center.

Love what you do!

2009-02-01T21:31:00.000-08:00

Last Thursday I had the opportunity to speak with a group of photographers about Albumesque. One reason why I started Albumesque, beyond my love for design, is to help photographers free up their lives so they can spend more time doing what they really enjoy. Last week David Jay asked me if I would speak at his workshop and explain Albumesque and our roll in the photography industry, so naturally I jumped at the opportunity. I love talking with people, especially photographers, and hearing about their businesses. It was so refreshing to hear the excitement and passion in their voices about what they do and how they truly love what they do. One of my favorite quotes is "make sure you do what you love and love what you do". With Albumesque I feel so very fortunate and blessed that I get to do that and work with the people that I do every day!

Here are a few pics that Kenny Kim took while I was talking. As you can see I'm really animated when I speak. Facial expressions and hands were going crazy! LOL... Thanks Kenny for the pics, and a HUGE thank you to DJ for the invite and for always being such a joy and delight to work with!

The EYE PATCH !

2009-01-30T09:54:00.001-08:00

All I have to say is I have the most hilarious friends EVER!!!!!!! One thing that I love about my friends beyond knowing that they are so extremely loyal, is how we can make fun of each other over and over again and always find humor in it. Or maybe I should rephrase that and say that I'm glad that we can find so much humor in making fun of me:P LOL......... Ok so here's some embarrassing info about me. You ready????? When I was around 10 years old my parents discovered that I had a lazy eye so of course my parents did some research and discovered that the way to fix that issue was to wear a patch over my dominant eye several hours a day. So that's what I did. I have only shared this story with a very select few just because it's a little embarrassing. Well the other day my good friends Gary and Missy bought an eye patch and gave it to Janey and Mark to give to me. So last night around 7ish I hear a knock at the door. To my surprise there was Janey and Mark, and yes Mark was wearing the eye patch. It was hilarious! I'm glad we can still find humor in this. LOL.....

I need to start digging into their childhood, and maybe we will find that Gary or Mark wore head gear at night:) Holla!

It doesn't take much to make me smile!:)

2009-01-20T08:37:00.000-08:00

As I was shifting through some old photos, I came across these photographs that I had taken last summer. I love animals, especially dogs, so right away they made me smile:) Hmmmmmm, maybe a dog farm is in the near future:P Just kidding!

I hope everyones day is beautiful!

Can't sit still for long:)

2009-01-16T09:04:00.000-08:00

The next couple of months are going to be pretty crazy, but how I love craziness:) Attending WPPI, speaking at the Santa Barbara Pug group about Albumesque/album designing, shooting a wedding, designing a ton, and taking a 1 week Cruise on the ROCK BOAT. To top it off, on March 29th I'll be racing my 5th triathlon. I'm extremely excited and for a second last year I thought I was going to retire from triathlons but that soon changed. It's the amazing feeling of crossing the finish line that keeps me going and excited to sign-up for the next one. Janey, Mark, and Mandy are going to be racing with me as well. I'm trying to talk Rob into racing so if you think he should race just CLICK HERE and comment on his blog and send him some encouragement:) Maybe say something like "IT'S TIME TO GET YOUR BUTT IN GEAR" Just kidding:)

Also, if you'd like to join us and race on March 29th, e-mail me or sign-up on the USB Triathlon website

CLICK HERE

Hope to see everyone soon!

Happy New Years!

2009-01-05T22:19:00.000-08:00

Happy New Years everyone:)

I had a wonderful New Years Eve/family fun night with Rob and his family. It was girls against guys and we played several games such as Uno, Catch Phrase, and Guitar Hero. Lets just say I don't shine while playing Catch Phrase but it was extremely fun just the same:) Ember, Rob's sister, Made amazing desserts, and a wonderful dinner on top of it which made the night even more enjoyable:) YUMMY!

On New Years day I went to San Francisco with Rob, Kendra, and Devin. I've been there once before but not as a tourist and to explore the city, so that's what we did. We walked around, road on the trolley, ate yummy bread bowls, and watched a movie in their imax theater. It was the perfect New Years day!

While I was in San Fran, I decided that I wanted to capture a black and White series of the city with my point and shoot. I have some empty space on my walls that need to be filled and I thought this would be the perfect project. So here you go:) Only the pics of the city will go on my wall and the pics of everyone else will go next to my computer:) LOL

Back to Sunny California...

2008-12-31T07:19:00.001-08:00

The last nine days have been amazing. Hanging with my family, eating a ton, sleeping, working out, the list goes on. I'm now in the Boise Airport headed to Oakland where I will spend New Years with Rob and his family. I'm excited! I won't have any internet access for the next three days. Crazy huh?:) I'll be sure to post pics of my time in Sacramento as well, but until then here's a few others that I took this last week.

As 2009 approaches I challenge you to think about what you'd like to do differently. Whether that be what you'd like to change in your life or a way you can make a difference. It doesn't have to be big. Small is good to:)

Planes, Trains, and Automobiles:)

2008-12-23T13:20:00.001-08:00

After taking a train to Claremont, a plane to Idaho, and riding in the truck in the snow for an hour to get to my families house, I finally made it safe and sound:) I have no cell phone reception, which is a little odd but I'm sure I'll get by:) It's been so nice to finally relax and enjoy my family who've I missed so much. I'll try to post more pics but due to how full my luggage was I only had room for my point and shoot, which I'm totally regreting. I have learned to never leave my camera behind EVER again. So here's a couple of pics of the beautiful winter wonderland that surrounds my parents home. I took this with my point and shoot, so keep your eyes open for many more wonderful point and shoot shots:P

Merry Christmas everyone!

Love love love,
Amy:)

So much to be Thankful for!

2008-11-29T00:10:00.000-08:00

The last couple of days have been exactly what I've needed. Taking time to stop, relax and stand still. Or as one of my favorite quotes says, "take time to smell the flowers":) That's exactly what I've been doing:) Hanging with close friends, playing games, relaxing, having great conversations, running, and shopping of course, are just a few of the things we've been up to. I'm constantly reminded on all the many blessing that have been given to me and I'm so extremely thankful.

At first I was wondering how my Thanksgiving was going to turn out because it was my first thanksgiving without my family. I definitely missed them beyond words can say and I can't wait to see them in a few weeks:) Love you guys!!! The next best thing was spending Thanksgiving with one of my best friends Emily, and her amazing family. We're still here making memories so I will definitely post some pics on Monday when I return. But until then I wanna leave you with a recent portrait photoshoot that I did last week.

I photographed Heather and Christian's wedding over two years ago and now they have a new member to their family!!!!! Their little boy Jack, who has to be one of the cutest little boys I have ever seen. He's so happy and all smiles:) I truly had a great time during this photoshoot and I'm so thankful that I love what I do and do what I love:) Because life is to short to spend countless hours on something you dread doing.

Happy belated thanksgiving everyone:) I hope everyday is Thanksgiving and you remember to be thankful for all the many blessings that have been put in your life:) However, just don't eat like it's Thanksgiving everyday:) LOL...

CLICK HERE FOR THE SLIDESHOW

UPDATE:) Kinda!

2008-11-24T17:56:00.000-08:00

I know it's been forever since I've updated my blog:( I feel like whenever I promise that I'm going to update more often I blog even less then normal. LOL..... Well life is taking off and I'm not going to lie, I'm loving life:) Album designing, half marathon, hanging with friends, and fun photoshoots are just several of the things that have been taking up my time:) I have tons of pictures but I have a couple of projects that I need to finish and work on before I leave for Thanksgiving. So I will leave you with this sequence of images that I captured on one of my last photo shoots. Don't worry, Dad came to the rescue:P

I will blog more later:) Don't forget to enjoy life through these crazy times.

Makes me smile:)

2008-08-28T11:18:00.000-07:00

Janey just e-mailed the cutest picture and I just had to post it. It was taken by the lovely Jasmine Star who totally rocked as Janey's wedding photographer. One reason why I love this picture is it totally shows the fun, loving relationship that Janey, Gary, Missy and I have. Seriously when I'm around those three my stomach hurts from laughing so hard. They're three of my closest friends and I love them more then words can say:)

On a side note, the tri was AMAZING on Saturday and I shocked myself and beat my overall time from last year by 17 minutes. I crossed the finish line at 3 hours and 49 minutes BABY:) I was extremely surprised. It was so wonderful having Janey, Mark and Deyl there. I couldn't do it without them. Janey and I set up our transition stations right next to each other and seeing her lovely face at 5:30 in the morning was so wonderful:) Also I was so wonderfully surprised to see Emily, Meredith, Vanessa, Noah, Paige, Summer, Becky, Zach, Erin and Ty all there cheering us on at the finish line. It made my day and crossing that finish line is an experience like no other and I can't wait for the next tri. I thought I was going to retire from triathlons after the SB long course but maybe after next year's Half Iron Man Hawaii:)

Also a big thank you to Emily for not only taking pictures of our tri but for getting up at 5:00 am to make sure I was up, who also was on the sand at 7:10 to see us off, and who was at the bike transition and finish line with a big smile on her face cheering us on. You my dear are one in a million:) I mean a Trillion:)

This week is extremely crazy. Designing albums, designing a new Albumesque website, and launching a new line of ..........BEEP..... It's a secret but stay tuned:) LOL

I hope your week is beautiful and every day filled with moments that take your breath away:)

SB Long Course here I come:)

2008-08-22T21:09:00.000-07:00

So this last week I went bowling with some of my friends and all I have to say is I played HORRIBLE. Janey, Steve and Emily rocked the house. I beat Mark the first game by one pin and the next game he beat me by one. UNBELIEVABLE. Seriously Mark and I are pretty competitive but for some reason we couldn't get it together. :) LOL

So tomorrow I'm hoping for better luck. I have to be up at 4:45 in the morning for our long awaited Santa Barbara long course. It starts at 7 in the morning and we have to be there at 5:30. For those of you who know me know that I'm not a morning person at all. I always get extremely nervous right before and I'm hoping I can pull it together for the tri and not let my bowling slump get in the way:) I'm so thankful for the amazing friends who will be racing as well. Janey, Mark, and Deyl, you guys are the best and you make this experience 100 times more enjoyable and I know I will cherish these memories forever:) Also a big thank you to Emily, Vanessa, Paige, Summer and Becky who plan on watching the race and cheering us on, you guys are amazing! See you bright and early. Oh and can we say HALF IRONMAN HAWAII????

Janey and Marky Poo are married:)

2008-08-12T12:56:00.001-07:00

The last four days have been a wonderful whirlwind. Janey and Mark got married on 8.8.08. They had four days planned of hiking, luncheons, BBQ's, you name it. The day of their wedding they had a very intimate ceremony and reception with 35 of their closest friends and family. It was an amazing week and I couldn't be more happier for them. I have known Janey for awhile now and she's one of the most amazing people I have ever met. She should write a book on how to be a best friend because being a friend is one of the many areas of where she shines. I never thought anyone would be worthy enough to marry Janey but when Mark came into her life I knew he was perfect for her and he's SOOOOO AMAZING!

I love you guys! You're the meaning in my life you're my inspiration, LALALALALALALALAL!!

Here's a few pics that I've grabbed from blogs and face books from the past week. I was having the time of my life with all our close friends and didn't think to even take my camera. LOL... I knew everything would be documented and it was:)

Click here to see the toast I gave. I wasn't sure I could make it through the whole thing but I did. YAY

It's official!

2008-07-29T12:56:00.000-07:00

So it's official, Emily and I finally booked our tickets on the most AMAZING cruise out there. The ROCK BOAT!:) For those of you who know me, know that I love love love music, and Emily shares the same passion:) So with this cruise they have 24 different bands that take turns playing all week. Brandi Carlile, Patty Griffin, Indigo Girls, Shawn Mullins, and Lyle Lovett are just a few of the amazing talented bands that will be playing while on the cruise. I hear it's like being at a concert all day long. Can we say HEAVEN! I can't wait! If any of you are interested in going let me know and I'll give you the low down:)

But until then all I have to say is Cayamo!:) I'm excited!

Click here to see the website and all the beautiful breath taking places we'll be traveling to.

Competitive! Me, NEVER:P

2008-07-11T00:03:00.000-07:00

Ok I need to confess that I'm getting extremely competitive in my triathlon training. I use to race and workout with not really caring what my time was. People would pass me and I was completely ok with it. Well now I care:) LOL.... Last night the whistle blew, the race began, and I told myself I HAD to keep up with Deyl and Mark. Lets just say I kept up with them until the end when they sprinted. I seriously thought I was going to puke. Oh the joy, and of course I would do it again in a heart beat. Well tonight I checked my race results and I was pretty shocked when I saw that I came in 28th place out of 243 runners. I placed 4th in the women's category. Last year I think I came in like 80th place. Oh great, I have a feeling next week I'm going to be extremely competitive:) LOL

I never thought I would enjoy training and racing as much as I have. If you've never tired it, you're missing out. There's nothing like crossing the finish line after so much hard work and effort. It's a feeling and rush that can't be explained:)

My hero!

2008-06-15T23:03:00.000-07:00

Today should be called MY HERO day because that's what my Dad is to me. I've been blessed with the most amazing father I could ever have asked for. He's the one who stayed home with me the first nine months of my life, the one who would dance with me almost every night when he would get home from work (even after being so exhausted), the one who I can have a conversation with hours upon hours, and the one who knows when something is wrong even when I say I'm fine:) Truthful, loyal, and faithful are just several characteristics that describe this amazing man that I look up to every single day.

I was very fortunate to be able to spend fathers day with my dad and family. I flew up to Idaho on Saturday and will be here for a week. My dad is having a hip replacement on his right hip tomorrow and reconstructive surgery on his left. His bull riding days finally caught up to him. I know everyone in my family is worried and have been praying for him non stop so if you could keep my dad in your prayers as he goes in tomorrow at 7am I would really appreciate it.

I'll be trying to keep up with my e-mails and calls as best as possible but it may take me a little longer to get back to you. My sister and I will be taking turns spending the night in the hospital. It's been proven that when your love ones spend the night in the hospital with you, your recovery is quicker. The doctors think he'll be in there for five days so I will keep everyone posted.

Happy fathers day to all you wonderful fathers! Oh and Dad, I love you with all my heart:)

Getting dressed up and getting dirty - in the same week:)

2008-06-10T13:09:00.000-07:00

I remember growing up and telling my mom that man time flies and she would always respond by saying "As you grow older it passes by even quicker". It's finally hitting me on how life is just flying by so quickly and yet I'm loving life to the fullest. I love looking at my calendar knowing there are so many wonderful things to look forward to.

This last week was one of those weeks where I don't think I could have fit one more thing in my schedule. On Tuesday I threw my first lingerie/bridal party for my bestest friend in the world, Janey. I got 8 of her friends together for for a fun dinner which was set up under the stars with lights strung everywhere and Tiki torches set up in the corner of the yard. We only lit a couple because the paranoid person that I am was afraid that they were going to fall. LOL... Emily said she would try to catch them if they did but I knew that wasn't possible. LOL Emily just kidding, I had faith in you:P Emily was a huge help in making the bridal shower possible and I couldn't have done it without her. Thanks Emily for always having the attitude of how can I help. However, I'm next;P

It was a wonderful night full of laughter, fun, yummy food, and celebration of a wonderful/amazing lady meeting the most amazing man. Mark we love you! I love this picture of Janey and I because it describes how we are when we're together. People often mistake us for sisters and sometimes even twins. LOL... Janey you are a constant joy and delight in my life. You are precious and I don't know what I would do without you:)

Another highlight of my week was the super fun camping trip that my roommates and I went on this last weekend. We were invited by one of our friends to join a huge group of them at Big Sur. At first the thought of going with 25 people that I didn't know that well was a little intimidating but knew it was time to branch out of our comfort zones, and I'm so glad that we did. We had a wonderful time playing ultimate frisbee, laying out, making meals together, having great conversations, and getting to know so many wonderful people. Oh and the campgrounds didn't have showers so I think we get points for that as well. lol

On the way home I made my car stop at the Elephant Seal beach. I couldn't believe how many there were and how aggressive they were towards each other. Wouldn't want to mess with them:) After that we rushed home and took the longest shower:) Man I LOVE running water, ....it's good to be home:)

Craziness to it's fullest........

2008-05-29T10:27:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was the Half Iron Man that Brian and I had been training for, for about for months or so. When we signed up for this we didn't realize it was the WORLDS TOUGHEST HALF. However I did wonder what WTH stood for. LOL..... Two days before the race we received an e-mail from the race director stating that the temperature was an all time high of 97 degrees and they were thinking of shortning the course. I wrote him right away and said I was all for that:) When we arrived at orientation he then announced that he appreciated everyones e-mails and that everyone wanted to keep the race the same distance. I almost stood up and said "ummmmm excuse me that's not what I wrote". LOL.. S0 we began the race at 7 in the morning and the temperature ranged from 97 to 100 degrees throughout the whole race. This was a 1.3 mile swim, 56 mile bike and 13.1 mile run so you can imagine how tired and exhausted I was and on top of it I had to make a conscious effort to drink water even when I wasn't thirsty. Everyone kept emphasizing how important it was for the athletes to stay hydrated. The swim was my biggest fear but it turned out to be the easiest thing for me. The Bike was CRAZY! On mile 10 someone yelled "you're almost there" I almost screamed back NO I"M NOT:) Hill after hill after hill could describe the bike. The Bike was trying but we both did a great job despite the fact that Brian had tried some new electrolite tablets in his water that made his stomach upset and the next thing I knew he was puking on mile 10. He looked at me and said he was done. I was soooooo extremely sad but was surprised when he caught me on mile 15 and said he was going to finish. Needless to say Brian is a trooper and even though he puked two to three times on the bike and twice on the run he still finished. He never gives up and that's something that admire in him. Of course there were times when I was thinking I can't believe we do this for fun but it really is a blast. The run was a trail run which added to the intensity of the race. The goal was to finish and we did. When I crossed the finish line I knew right away that I would do it again in a heart beat! I think I'm addicted:)

Here are some pictures that Brian's dad took of us. Thanks Clyde:)

And Brian thanks for being such a great friend and wonderful workout buddy. Couldn't have done it without you.

Yep, I'm Crazy

2008-05-11T23:21:00.000-07:00

So my Half Iron Man is a week from today. This half Triathlon is considered "The Worlds Toughest Half ". It's a 1.3 mile swim, 56 mile bike ride and a 13.1 mile TRAIL run. YIKES:) I've come to the conclusion that I'm completely crazy:) I'm extremely excited and I've been training really hard for this but I'm also extremely nervous about the whole thing. Tonight I was looking at the website and reading about the courses and all the details and I became a little overwhelmed with all the details and rules. As soon as I finished reading almost the whole website I started making my check list as well. I'm sure I've missed a few things but I have a week to get everything in order. Man I hope I remember everything, especially my bike:P I'm stressed. LOL....... Wish me luck:)

Click here to see the Aubern Half Triathlon website:O

HALF IRON MAN CHECK LIST:

SWIM:

wetsuit
goggles
Body glide
swim suit
Water bottle
Small towel
Medium towel
1 hammer gel

BIKE:

Bike
Bike shoes
socks
gloves
bike shorts
helmet
tank top
Racing belt
2 water bottles
4 hammer gels in water
6 gels
inner tube
1 co2 cartridge
Floor pump
Jacket - thermal

RUN:
running shoes
Hat?
4 hammer gels
Extra water bottle

Felt so loved:)

2008-05-07T12:24:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my 25th birthday and all I can say is I've never felt so loved:) The birthday celebration started three days ago with a surprise birthday party at Brian's house. It's so hard to surprise me because I'm so nosey and I always know what's going on in everyones life but this time they totally got me:) Brian, Emily and Summer got several of my close friends together for a nice relaxing day and a BBQ. If you know me, you know I love love love BBQ's and prefer that over eating out any day. It started at 2 in the afternoon and we all left the house around 10:00 and headed downtown for some Salsa dancing till 1:30 in the morning:) Talk about the perfect day.

Then on Tuesday Janey set up a wonderful dinner with all my close friends and we had the best dinner at a tiny Italian restaurant in Montecito. As I was sitting at the table with everyone I realized just how lucky I am to have the most amazing friends in the world. I know they would do anything for me and vise versa. Thank you to everyone who made my birthday so special. Also Janey surprised me with tickets to go see the Broadway show Wicked. AHHHHHHH, I'm sooo excited:)

I know several of my friends and family were either out of the country or out of town and yet they still found time to send me flowers, e-mails, text messages, gifts, or called me. Thanks for making my birthday so special. It was the best birthday week EVER:)

I wish we would have taken more pics but everyone was having such a great time I didn't even think to pick up my camera. LOL. Here's one pic that Emily got of my laughing my head off at one of the parties.

Maybe the Baby:)

2008-05-03T13:14:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to get a dog for awhile now but I know that my schedule will not permit it so Yesterday I dog sat Brian's dog Maybe all day and it was so fun:) She's the most adorable Brindle Boxer you will ever see. She's so funny because she's extremely clingy and she always has to be by your side or touching you. At one point I bent down to pick up something and sat on her. LOL... Don't worry, I didn't hurt her:) Everywhere I went she was there. So I decided to take my camera out and grab a few shots of her as well. She super photogenic don't you think? I think Brian is going to put the pics in her doggy book:P

Hope you all have a great weekend!

Recent Design:)

2008-05-01T15:22:00.000-07:00

Wow, it's a little embarrassing that I haven't posted in a whole month:( YIKES!

Anyways, I just finished designing Jamie and Ryans matted wedding album. I loved loved loved this wedding. I just remember how extremely nice and pleasant everyone was. I just remember walking away from their wedding and feeling very thankful that I could be apart of it. Here are a couple of my favorite spreads from their album design.

Too see the whole slideshow click HERE:)

SOOOO GOOD:)

2008-04-01T11:25:00.000-07:00

On Sunday I spent the whole day just relaxing on the beach with Summer and Crystal. Both these girls are sooooo amazing and two of the most quality girls you will ever meet:) Oh and boys they are single;) DJ was supposed to go with us to play volleyball but he said it was to cold and windy. I think he was afraid we were going to cream him at volleyball:P After calling him a wimp several times he then promised he would go bowling with us later that evening. The next comment that came out of his mouth was "I'm going to dominate." Well as you can see from the score board that wasn't the case. Navel 130 (that was me), Cupcake 107 (that was DJ), Ferrg 121 (Crystal) and Summer's score was covered up but I think she got a 115. Rumor also has it that DJ is getting a wrist brace for the next time we play. LOL..... He hates loosing so if you all get a chance just send him a sweet e-mail to try and lift his spirits:)

This weekend was a great reminder of how good I have it. I have the most amazing friends and I'm so thankful that we can spend the whole day together laughing, making fun of each other, and having the best time. I love you guys and can't wait to have another relaxing day:) Sunday volleyball anyone???????

Where am I now?

2008-03-18T00:40:00.000-07:00

So I feel like the last couple of months have been a whirl wind. I've been home long enough to repack, grab more work and run to catch my next flight. Right now I'm at WPPI, which is one of the largest photo conventions in the world. What makes it even more fun is every year all my crazy wonderful friends, who happen to be photographers, go as well. We always learn so much and walk away with tons of new memories made:)

I did so much today that I don't even have the energy to type it all out but I just went to Gary's blog and saw this hilarious picture that he took of all of us. Someone had the brilliant idea of taking a picture of all of us lying on the ground with our heads in a star. We were laughing so hard.

Click here to see Gary's blog and the fun video that he posted:)

Night:) I need to get some sleep so I have the energy for another fun filled day tomorrow!

Girls in Boise:)

2008-03-08T16:40:00.000-08:00

Emily, Summer and I just spent the last six days in Idaho with my family and we had the most amazing time. Night skiing, running, snow tubing, hot tubbing, amazing meals, great movies, endless wine, and off - roading in the quads were some of the many things that we did while in Idaho. Summer and Emily were great traveling buddies and I don't think we ever stopped laughing.

It was also my Dad's birthday yesterday (aka the Hollywood cowboy). He is seriously the most amazing man out there and has been my hero from day 1. Dad, thank you for being so amazing and I love you with all my heart. In celebration of his birthday we went to Ichiban Japanese Steak House where Mak the chef put on a show and prepared an amazing dinner.

Right now we are in the Boise airport waiting for our flight. Emily's bag was WAY over the weight limit and she had to take some things out. It was hilarious and I had to attach this picture of her.

Well that's all for now. I'm excited about heading to Santa Barbara for a week and then WPPI the following. Who's going to WPPI?

Boys just wanna have fun:)

2008-03-02T23:04:00.000-08:00

Two weeks ago I had the privilege of photographing some members/owners in a company called Cardrunners. Cardrunners is an online educational poker site and they flew out 7 of their online players and owners for a one day photo shoot with me and a two day video shoot with a videographer. At first I was expecting poker players in their mid forties but was soon corrected when they walked in and realized that their ages ranged from 20-27. They were a joy and delight to work with and I definitely had a great time. My friend Brian, the tall dark brunette, is one of the owners and hired me for this occasion. Thanks Brian:) The day started at Brian's amazing home in Santa Barbara and then ended at the beach where the boys had fun and played some frisbee. I soon realized that even though these guys were extremely successful at such a young age and very business minded guys at that, when the frisbee, ball and bat came out they turned into boys who just wanna have fun:)

Also, a big thank you to Andrew Van Gundy for helping me shoot. I woke up feeling extremely sick and never in my whole photography career had I ever felt so ill but knew that I had to push through it and with Andrew's help everything turned out great!

Click here to see Andrew's Website

Click here to find more information on Cardrunners

SERVER IS DOWN

2008-02-23T10:25:00.000-08:00

I feel like I'm always posting about how my e-mail and server is down:( Well it's down again. So if you need to get a hold of me e-mail me at amy@albumesque.com

Have a great weekend!

Dan and Julie's album design:)

2008-02-07T14:24:00.000-08:00

I just finished Dan and Julie's album design and I wanted to share with you a couple of my favorite layouts:) This couple was soooo cute. I felt so fortunate to be apart of their day!

More designs to come:)

Surf City USA 1/2 Marathon:) YA BABY:)

2008-02-05T00:02:00.000-08:00

This last weekend my good friends Deyl and Paige invited me, Crystal, Brian, Anna, Kate, Kevin and Heather to run the Surf City half marathon, watch the Superbowl and eat ALL day. It was the perfect weekend. We arrived Saturday afternoon so we didn't have to get up at the crack of dawn the morning of the race. When we went to bed the sky was clear and the stars were shining bright. When we woke up the next morning it was poring and extremely cold. I was very thankful to have so many friends running the race, otherwise I would have crawled back in bed for at least 5 more hours:) The rain was a little crazy but I had the time of my life. I looked like a drown rat so hopefully the photographer missed me as I ran by:) I truly LOVE running and working out and sometimes I just can't get enough of it. Having my friends by my side and racing with me made the experience even more enjoyable. I'm so thankful to have friends like them and I know that I am truly lucky to have every single one of them in my life:)

On a side note: My goal was 8.5 minute miles so I was excited to read my results and find that I did 8 minute miles:) YAY... Here's my race results:)

YES, I'm home:)

2008-02-01T00:37:00.000-08:00

So I'm back in sweet home Santa Barbara and every time I return I'm reminded just how lucky I am to be living here. I love traveling but wow it's great to be home working and hanging with all of my friends. Tonight I had a girls night and went to dinner and a movie with Janey, Emily, and Crystal. I love those girls and they truly are the best girls EVER. Speaking of amazing girls, my time in Colorado was beyond amazing and I really enjoyed spending time with Liana, Shyla, Jasmine, Crystal, Sarah, and Jenna. I'm truly blessed and I can't wait for our next adventure. I was going through some of my images that I took while photographing a day in the life of a volunteer's of America and these images just made me so happy. I will post more later about my experience, but right now I need to get my rest because this weekend I will be racing in a half marathon and I need to be ready to win:) LOL

P.S. Has anyone seen the movie Young Frankenstein? I swear that Bingo Billy looks just like Egore:)

Colorado Here I come:)

2008-01-21T08:31:00.000-08:00

There's one place that I've always had a secret crush on and it's COLORADO:) It's so beautiful there I love it:) Today I'm headed to Denver to help out with an organization called Volunteers of America. I'll be meeting up with several of my friends who are all photographers so It should definitely be an amazing time. I'll post more about it later but right now I need to get one last run in before I leave:) Oh and I need to catch my flight:)

If you need to get a hold of me send me an e-mail and I will do my best to respond:)

To find out more about Volunteers of America click here:)

YES, we are CRAZY!!!!

2008-01-18T15:05:00.000-08:00

As soon as Brian agreed to start training 5 to 6 days a week for a half Iron man, I knew he was just as crazy as me:) We signed up for the half Iron Man in Aubern California, and at that point we knew it was time to step it up a notch. However we just found out that it's the toughest half iron man:( The 13 mile run is a trail run....... Yikes........ NO PROBLEM! We are trying to run as many races as we possibly can. So this last weekend we drove down to LA for a 10K, which is just a little over 6 miles. We couldn't believe it but we ran 7.5 minute miles. I was so proud of us:)

In February we are running a half marathon on Super Bowl Sunday and in May we are running the Mothers day half marathon in San Yanez. We are trying to get a group together for the half marathon in San Yanez so if you're interested in joining us send me an e-mail:)

Here's a picture of us right after our race on Saturday:)

White Christmas:)

2007-12-28T05:15:00.000-08:00

This Christmas was different in a lot of ways and yet completely wonderful:) Every year up until this year my family spends Christmas in California, in the same exact home where my sister and I grew up in. This year we decided to change it up a bit and I flew to Idaho where we celebrated our Christmas together. My family just moved into their amazing/beautiful home where we had our first white Christmas:) Some close friends also joined us which made our Christmas even more enjoyable. At first I was a little hesitant on having Christmas somewhere other then our previous home in California but soon realized that home is where family and friends are. So crazy to think that I consider Santa Barbara home and Idaho as well. We spent the days sledding, drinking coffee (yay), gathered around the fire, reading, playing with the dogs, and just relaxing. It was exactly what I needed.

Here are a few pictures of my parents home in Idaho. Some of the snow had melted already but at least you get a little bit of an idea. Their home is not completely finished but definitely on it's way:) The scenery is amazing and will take your breath away.

Right now I'm in the Boise airport waiting to board my flight to Reno where my friend Brian will be picking me up. We then head directly to Tahoe where we'll be bringing in the New Year with some friends. I'm excited.

I hope everyone had an amazing Christmas, and I hope your New Years is just as amazing!

Laura and Jo

2007-12-17T12:21:00.000-08:00

For those of you who sent me messages reminding me to update my blog, I totally thank you for that:) Life has been busy like usual and I keep forgetting to update this bad boy:)

A couple of weeks ago I had the opportunity to photograph Laura and Jo's wedding. As I had mentioned in a previous post, I actually grew up with Laura and to see her all grown up and so happy made me so excited for the both of them. It's so cute when the two of them are together, it's like time stands still. Laura and Jo I hope your marriage is blessed above and beyond. Stay in touch:)

to see the slideshow CLICK HERE

My family:)

2007-11-28T10:24:00.000-08:00

As we were sitting around the dinner table someone asked my mom, "so what are you thankful for". She said it could be summed up in three words, "faith, family, and friends". We all knodded our heads in agreement. Another thing that my family is definitely thankful for would be our dogs, who we consider part of our family. They each have their own unique personality, it's so cute:)

So let me introduce you to my whole family:)
Starting from the left we have Bear, Ginger, Hobo, Baby Bell, and Trixie. (oops I forgot to take a picture of Trixie, sorry girl:)

Then we have my sister Mandy, who is beyond gorgeous and then we have our yearly family picture that we took this year on my parents 40 acres. (me, Dad, Mom, and Mandy again.) Their property and house is breath taking and I'm so excited for them:)
Love you all!

Hollar Back Girrrrrlllllll:)

2007-11-09T09:50:00.000-08:00

Janey's birthday was a couple of weeks ago, and she doesn't really like to celebrate her birthday so Mark and I decided to make it a two week celebration:) We went out to dinner with friends a couple of nights. Then we all tried to surprise her with having Gary and Melissa show up but I guess she knew they were coming and pretended that she didn't know. At the end of the dinner she was like surprise I knew you were coming and I have gifts for all of you. HILARIOUS. The next weekend we drove up to San Yanez for a super nice dinner and line dancing at Mavericks:) It was heavenly:) We also got a picture with Maverick as well. Then this last weekend, Mark took Janey, Crystal, and myself to go see a Gwen Stefani concert. The whole time we were singing along and at one point the whole crowd was silent and Janey sang a solo:P I think she screamed Bananas or something like that:)

Having Janey in my life has really made me realize how fortunate I am. Not only is she my best friend but she's also the best oldest sister I could possibly ask for:P There's a country song that's called "you find out who your friends are" and this song totally describes her. I know she would drop anything for me and would be there in a split second if I needed her to be. Through the good and the bad she is there and that's just one of the many amazing qualities that she has and that I love about her.

Happy Birthday Janey, we are going to celebrate all year:) SURPRISE:)

Sunny and Dave - Wedding Album:)

2007-11-07T10:37:00.000-08:00

I just finished Sunny and Dave's wedding album this past week. They were such an amazing couple that I found it hard to pick and choose the images to go in the album. Sunny looked beyond beautful and Dave was super cute as well;) Looking back on this wedding it reminded me of how thankful I am to have clients who are as sweet and amazing as they were. It makes me even more thankful to be doing what I do:)

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE SLIDESHOW:)

NY = That's where I've been!

2007-10-22T21:52:00.000-07:00

WOW, life has been a super fun whirlwind this past month. Besides shooting weddings and designing, I've been soooo busy traveling. I went to New York twice in one month, it was great, however I'm soooo excited to be home in beautiful Santa Barbara! The first time I went to NY was to meet up with my dear friend Vanessa. She is beyond a doubt the most amazing girl and the best traveling buddy ever. Whatever I wanted to do she was up for and vise versa. It was so great, because the one thing that I HAD to do while in NY was run through Central Park, and she of course wanted to do the same. It was so fun!!!!!!! We went shopping, running, attended a Broadway show, and the list goes on.

Then a couple of weeks later I headed back to the Big Apple to attend the Photo Expo and to help Gary with his booth. Call me crazy but I had such a great time working the booth. I love meeting new people and this was a great opportunity to meet tons of amazing photographers in such a short time. I also got to hang with some of my dearest friends, such as Melissa Carl, Lauren Chapman, Gary Fong, David Jay, Sara France, Sara Barlow, Amber Holritz, and Dane Sanders. I always look forward to attending photo conventions because all my close friends are together at once:) WAY TOOOOO MUCH FUN!

So I didn't even take one picture while I was in NY so I stole them from every ones blogs:) Thanks you all.

P.S. I had to post a picture of Gary's booth. Look at all the people. It was packed:)

Jamie and Ryan's wedding:)

2007-10-02T17:55:00.001-07:00

Right when I walked into the hair salon at 8:00 in the morning I knew that their wedding was going to be amazing. It's days like those that I feel even more blessed to be a wedding photographer and do what I do. Jamie and Ryan were all smiles and when they would look at each other their smiles grew even bigger. It was so cute. Photographing Jamie and Ryan's wedding was definitely a privilege and I'm thrilled that I was able to be apart of your day. I know you two will have an amazing marriage and life together. keep smiling and laughing:)

Click here to see the SLIDESHOW

LOVE POEM

2007-09-29T08:16:00.001-07:00

Ok, I need to find a love poem by this evening. Anyone have a favorite that they'd like to share with the group:)

Don't Blink

2007-09-07T00:53:00.000-07:00

Wow, last week was one of the most amazing weeks I've ever had. My really good friends Missy and Gary got married and everything about their wedding was amazing and so beautiful. When Gary aksed me to be a Groomsmen/women I was honored. Gary is one of my closest friends and I talk to him almost every day. He totally makes me laugh and I have learned so much from him. It was so cute because right before the ceremony started, Gary hugged me, Janey, Dj, and Dennis (all his groomsmen) and said we were his best friends. I know we all felt the same. Missy was the most beautiful bride. So calm and collected and very stunning. As she walked down the isle, Gary totally lost it. Tears of joy came pouring down his face, it was one of the most beautiful moments I have ever seen.

So many memories were made. It was a four day extravaganza, but man time flew. It was like we blinked and the wedding was over. But what's so great is how their lives together have just started and they have so many more memories to make together.
Gary and Melissa you two are amazing and I love you both so very much. I'm very thankful to have you in my life and I can't wait for you to have kids:) hehe:)

So yesterday as I was driving this amazing song started playing on the radio and it's called "Don't Blink". Right now I can say that it's one of my all time favorite songs. Listen to the words and watch the music video it will totally make you think and maybe even make you cry. After listening to the song It made me realize that life does go faster then you think. Seriously I blinked and the next thing I knew I was 24:)

Click here to see the music video

P.S. I didn't take one picture while I was there. Jessica Claire was the official photographer so I knew she would take tons of amazing photographs. Check out her blog, and the slideshow that she posted. Jess you did an amazing job and I know everyone was blown away:) Here's a couple that I grabbed from her blog:)

Click here to see Jessica's Blog

The last shot was taken from Jen Bebbs blog. She shot with Jessica and she's not only one of the sweetest people but such an amazing photographer as well:)

Great job girls:)

Click here to see Jen Bebb's Blog

We did it!!!

2007-08-25T20:24:00.000-07:00

So today was the day that we all had been training for. The day started at 4:30 am. I received the cutest text from Janey saying good luck and I know you're going to do great. Right away I jumped out of bed and started gathering all my gear and headed down to East Beach grill, which is where the Santa Barbara Long course took place. It was a 1 mile swim, 36 mile bike ride, and a 10 mile run. I loved every minute of it except for the last two miles. Everyone kept saying "you're almost there". I gave them the side ways glance like YOU BETTER NOT BE LYING. LOL.. The whole day was amazing, and to top it off, so many friends came to watch and cheer us on. For everone that came, Luna, Lisa, Summer, DJ, Anna, Shaun, Meg and Mark, I thank you sooo much for being so supportive and without you guys it wouldn't have been the same. Oh, and it was so funny because right when I saw Mark he was on the phone with Janey. So as I was running I chatted with her for about 30 seconds. It was hilarous. One person yelled "that's the way to do it". LOL So I finished in 4 hours and 10 minutes. My goal was 4 hours and 45 minutes so I was beyond stoked:)

Vanessa, Paige, Deyl ad Brian. I can't even begin to tell you just how much fun I had training with you all. I can't wait for the many more adventures that we do together. I love you all!

Here are a few pics that DJ took today. Thanks DJ for being our photographer for the whole day, we totally owe you:)

Catching up!

2007-08-14T12:22:00.001-07:00

So this week i'm definitely playing catch up on editing weddings and engagement sessions. So here is one of my recent engagement sessions that I photographed in beautiful Santa Barbara. I've been home for the last couple of weeks and I would have to say that I've enjoyed every minute of it. Joe and Laura are super cute and I actually grew up with with Laura, so it's awesome to see just how happy she is and and how wonderful Joe treats her. They are so cute together and I can't wait for their wedding!!!!!!!!!

Click here to see their engagement slideshow

WOW - I'm scared!!!

2007-08-08T15:33:00.001-07:00

Most of you know that one of my biggest fears is seeing a shark when I'm swimming or possibly being eaten by a shark. So today I was doing some research on how to avoid sharks and what to do if you see one. Don't swim in the morning or evening, avoid murkey water, and don't let off stress signals were several of the things that were mentioned. I have done all of those but now I swim in the afternoon and I would have to say that the last couple of times I've been pretty calm. Now, if you see one you're supposed to stay calm and look the shark in the eyes. YA RIGHT!!!!!! Oh man I would be a gonner that's forsure. I also came across this picture..... AHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!

Ok off I go to swim in the ocean:(

Janey says I have nothing to worry about and that I have a greater chance dying while bowling...... That makes me feel alot better!!!!!

Fun Times:)

2007-07-27T10:56:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago I went to Idaho to visit my family. It was a short trip but jammed packed with fun things to do. Swimming, Kayaking, shopping, eating, running, you name it we did it:) Oh ya, and staring at big buildings. Ok I have no idea what I was doing in that first picture. I hadn't visited a big city with large buildings in a while so maybe that had something to do with my dorkiness:) LOL

Scott and Wendy = Full of life:)

2007-07-25T09:54:00.000-07:00

This last weekend, I shot a wedding at the Scripps College in Downtown Claremont. Scott and Wendy are an amazing couple who are so much in love with each other. Their laughter and excitment was contagious to everyone around them, especially to me. LOL... Everytime Wendy would laugh I would laugh and there was even a time when she started to cry and of course I got teary eyed:) It was an amazing day that I was excited to be apart of:)

Here are a few of my favorites:) Slideshow to follow:)

Girls Night Out

2007-07-24T15:30:00.000-07:00

After a jammed pack week of designing albums, hip hop camp, training over 10 hours for the triathlon, and shooting a wedding down in Claremont, I took Sunday evening off and had a girls night out:) Summer, Luna and I got all dressed up and headed down town for a super relaxing dinner at Arnoldi's. I think we had a 2 to 3 hour dinner just talking, laughing, and having the best time. I think it should be a requirement that we do this every week:) Anyways, afterwards we headed back home and had a little dance party. I got to breat out some of my new hip hop moves. it was soo much fun. I think the funniest part was when Summer runs into her room and comes out with a black wig on, flowey skirt, and a red rose in her mouth. We were all on the floor dying.

Fun fun night!!! Lets have another girls night out very soon!

2007-07-05T22:28:00.000-07:00

So, I'm totally hitting myself for not taking ANY pictures on 4th of July:( Well, it was an amazing 4th and I seriously didn't even think to take out the camera:) LOL ....

The morning started out when my friend Paige picked me up to run a 15K race. While running there were groups of people along the way just cheering us on and waving their American flags. I started thinking, wow I am so fortunate to be living in this country, and yes I started to get teary eyed:) Anyways, I finshed in 81 minutes, which I was pretty excited about because I thought it was going to take me a lot longer. I was done by 9:30 and then right after that I headed to the beach with my roommate summer. Her boss invited us all out to this private beach right outside of Santa Barbara. It was beautiful. I went boogy boarding, swimming, layed out and just relaxed. We also watched the fireworks with every body and their mother in Santa Barbara. It was packed that's forsure.

Well, I'm going to be gone for the next six days so I'll try to keep up with my e-mail and voicemails, but no promises:)

Jamie and Ryan:)

2007-06-19T23:19:00.000-07:00

Jamie and Ryan have to be one of the cutest couples I have ever been around. All they have to do is look at each other and BAM, the biggest smile hits both their faces. I had never met Jamie or Ryan before their engagement session, but right when I saw them I knew that this engagement session was going to be so much fun. We taked, laughed, and had such a great time together. I can't wait for their wedding in August:)

Hanging with the girls:)

2007-06-08T01:06:00.001-07:00

So today Janey and I decided to take the day off to go shopping with all of our girl friends down in Newport Fashion Island. They're all wedding photographers and the most amazing ones at that:) We got in the car, turned on the radio, and made the three hour road trip there and back all in one day:) Time totally flew by with country music and great conversation. We got a little lost on the way down and ended up on Balboa Island. OOPS... Next time we should probably turn when the sign says "Fashion Island" with a big fat arrow:) We were greeted with big hugs, laughter, and tons of chatting. We all had the most amazing time and kept saying "we need to do this more often". It's days like these that you realize just how blessed you are to have such great friends and with them all being in the same industry it makes it even more special. I'm so thrilled that all of you were able to make it and I look forward to the many more dinners, shopping days, cruises, and spa days together:) LOL

P.S. I grabbed this shot off of Jasmine's blog:) Thanks Jazzy for bringing your camera:)

In the photo we have Amelia Lyon, me, Jasmine Star, Shyla, Mary Jane, Lauren Hillary, Jessica Claire. You girls are the best:)

Jody and Curt = The most beautiful couple:)

2007-06-05T13:43:00.000-07:00

This last weekend I photographed my friend Curt's wedding in Yosemite. He seriously married the most beautiful/amazing girl and I am so excited for the both of them. SHe also had one of the most amazing dresses that I have ever seen. To top it off she gave her bridesmaides white pearls from Black House/White Market, talk about GREAT taste:)

The whole day we just laughed and had a great time. The wedding was at the Ahwahnee hotel which is absolutely breath taking and I recommend that everyone go there someday:) We shot so many images it was really hard to decide which ones to include on my blog. I haven't gone through all of them yet so as soon as I do I'll make sure to post their slideshow when it's done. So untill then, here are a few from last weekend:)

Thanks Natalie:)

2007-06-04T08:19:00.001-07:00

So last night, my good friend Natalie left a comment on my blog reminding me that I hadn't blogged for "two weeks". Actually, it's been a little less:P Thanks natalie for the reminder:) Life has been crazy and I don't even know where to begin........

Last week my parents moved to Idaho:( Saying goodby was super hard and yes there were plenty of tears. I won't see them till September, which I think is the longest I have ever gone without seeing them. I'm starting to realize that I don't care for change and this was HUGE. The good thing about all this is they are moving to Idaho where they have 40 acres on a river and soon they'll be building their dream home:) My sister lives in Idaho as well so they're also excited to be close to her. .

On a happier note, I just got back from photographing an amazing wedding in Yosemite for my good friend Curt and his amazing wife Jody. I can't wait to post the slideshow:) Stay tuned:)

So right now I leave you with a picture of Natalie:) Miss you!

New Logo:)

2007-05-24T11:59:00.000-07:00

A couple of days I had an hour of down time so I decided to revamp our Albumesque Logo:) This is what I came up with.

I love designing and I find it soooo relaxing sometimes, weird I know:)

Click here to see the Albumesque blog

Our Band shoot:)

2007-05-16T23:56:00.000-07:00

When I was out in Chicago last week Sarah, Andrew, and Natalie took me, shyla, and Brent to downtown Chicago. It was soooo much fun. On our way to the restaurant one of the girls said lets form our own band and do a band shoot right now. I HATE being in front of the camera so I was like uhhhhhhhhhhh:) LOL.... Anyways, it was alot of fun and we definitely made some memories.

I miss you alll so very much!!!!!!!!!!!!

P.S. I took these images off of Shyla's blog. Check her blog out to see the sweet slideshow that she put together:)

Click here for Shyla's blog

LISA GOE!!!!!! Tomorrow night:)

2007-05-14T23:52:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

Lisa Goe (my very talented roommate) is performing at Soho's tomorrow evening. If you're in town definitely plan on going and show up a few minutes early. I'm totally going, after I swim for 45 minutes and run for 90 min. ahhhhhh:) ANyways you'll totally fall in love with her voice.

Hope you all can make it:)
Amy

call me if you need directions or if you need a ride:)

Click here to see her upcoming shows:)

P.S. Get there around 8:00:)

A wonderful Birthday Dinner:)

2007-05-11T10:26:00.000-07:00

I'm finally back in Santa Barbara:) This last week has been amazing and it was so great seeing soooo many of my friends. A big thank you to the Barlow family for allowing me to stay with them while I was in Chicago. I love you guys:) I will post some pictures very soon:)

Lastnight Janey planned a birthday dinner for me at our favorite Chinese Restaurant and it was soooo perfect. Janey, Mark, Deyl, Paige, Paul, and joni all came to dinner. We talked, laughed and had an amazing time. I truly have the most amazing friends and I'm so thankful to have every single one of them in my life. Love you guys!!!!!

here are a few pictures:)

Whirlwind:)

2007-05-05T00:50:00.000-07:00

I'm super exicted because in less then four hours I'll be heading to the airport and flying to Chicago. (not to excited about the flying part, but anyways:) I get to hang with Sarah and Natalie Barlow for the next five days and I can't wait. I think we're having a slumber party tomorrow so that should be fun. See you girls soon!!!!!!!

Just to catch you up with whats been going on in my life, one day after I got back from Puerta Vallarta I headed to Cabo with Jessica Claire. When Jessica invited me to shoot with her of course I said yes. Jessica is amazing and my all time favorite photographer, and when I get married she's totally photographing my wedding. She's also designed an amazing line of camera bags. The website should be launced in mid May so check it out. After seeing the SHOOTSAC you'll be hooked:)

Here's a picture of the hotel where the wedding was held. I couldn't believe my eyes..... Pink, yellow, blue, and green walls. I truly think the hotel was designed and painted for Jessica Claire. Lets just say we were in Jessica Claire wonderland:)

Thank you soooo much Jessica for taking me with you. I truly had an amazing time getting to know you, and I learned so much. I can't wait for July:)

Click Here for Jessica Claire's blog

Click here for the SHOOTSAC website

Loving It:)

2007-05-01T21:27:00.000-07:00

It's amazing how so many people are getting into shape and training for triathlons and marathons:) Well I'm also training for a triathlon:) I've been training with Paige and Vanessa for the long course triathlon, which will be held on August 25th. It's a 1 mile swim, 34 mile bike ride, and a 10 mile run. We train six days a week and I can truthfully say that I love training. There's no way I could do it alone so knowing that the girls are going to be there ever morning has really kept me accountable and has motivated me sooooo much. I've also loved just hanging out with these girls because they both are amazing. Thanks girls for getting me up every morning at 5:30:) LOL......

Oh yes....... I purchased a new road bike from Hazards a couple of days ago, and I just found out that my bike finally arrived. I'm seriously having bike fever so I can't wait to get it tomorrow. I'll post some pics the moment I get it. I've been training on my mountain bike and after todays ride I'm sooooo over my mountain bike:) Just to show you how serious we are, here's our training scedule:)

So, if anyone else wants to start training with us totally let me know:P

A change of Scenery:)

2007-04-24T21:32:00.000-07:00

I just got back from photographing my friend Tiffany and her fiance, Jason, engagement session. I had such a great time just hanging, laughing, and catching up with them both. Jason took us on a little hike and showed us all these new breath taking places that were perfect for taking pictures. I was so excited to branch out and try something new. Thanks guys for being such great sports. You both are amazing and I'm so thankful that I get to be apart of your wedding day:)

Grabbing the shot:)

2007-04-23T21:21:00.000-07:00

I was going through the wedding that I shot with Janey two weekends ago and I came across this first image:) I can't believe I forgot to post this..... It was hilarious because Janey was photographing the groomsmen on this super rocky beach and she decided to go super close to the water, but in order to get there she has to go down a little rocky hill. Well she made it there safely but the next thing I knew, around 50 people screamed "JANEY". I guess a wave almost took her out. Then as she tried to climb the rocky hill she started to slip and the groom came to her rescue:) Hilarious:)

Check out HERE blog to see the amazing images that she got from that wedding, there's no limits for Mary Jane:)

Here's a few that I took.......

Sad to say goodbye:(

2007-04-16T20:46:00.000-07:00

I can't even begin to tell you about the amazing time that we are having in Puerta Vallarta. Today was a fun filled day, just like all the rest. We went on fourteen different zip line courses. It was amazing. We have the craziest video, which I'll post when I get back.

Anyways, we leave tomorrow and both Janey and I are so sad to say goodbye. Everyone here is so friendly and helpful. Oh, and did you know that Puerta Vallarta is Santa Barbara's sister city???? No wonder we love it so much:)

Here's a pic that we took earlier this evening. It expresses just how sad we are to say goodbye......

Amazingness:)

2007-04-13T21:01:00.000-07:00

Right now I'm in beautiful Puerto Vallarta, sitting in the outside lobby with the cool ocean breeze, drinking coffee with my best friend, and listening to the waves. Oh ya and did I mention that the lobby has WIFI:)

Janey asked me to shoot a wedding with her here a while ago and of course I said YES. I've met the couple at several other weddings that I've assisted Janey on, and they truly are amazing. They've taken us in as family and made are time here even more enjoyable:) I cant wait for their wedding tomorrow. We arrived here Yesterday and I actually took a nap, can you believe that??? Well I didn't go to sleep the night before so maybe that had something to do with it:) Anyways, we just got back from an amazing dinner at a restaurant that a local cab driver recommended to us. Sketchy I know, but for some reason we totally trusted him. The restaurant had the most amazing setting and view, we truly were in heaven, however there wasn't a single person in the restaurant except the waiters:( Janey and I immediately broke out in a nervous laughter and thought for a second well maybe we missed the rush. As we went around the corner there was one other couple dining. I thought Janey was going to run and give them the biggest hug. Our waiter then said that we were his second customers for the night and it was 9:00. We seriously almost ran out right then. Needless to say the dinner was amazing and the waiter assured us that it was really busy the night before:) RIGHT.........

I get back on Tuesday really late so if you need to get a hold of me I'll be checking my e-mail every once in a while. We have no phone access at all which is a little strange but I think I'm getting use to it:)

E-mail problems:( SWEET BIKE:)

2007-04-06T00:48:00.000-07:00

Okaaaayyyyyyy.......... For some reason my server isn't connecting with my Mail account, and the only way for me to check my e-mail is through my server. So long story short, if you need to get a hold of me then e-mail me at amy@albumesque.com. My albumesque account is the best and it always works:) YAY!!! Also if you think you can fix my e-mail problem then totally e-mail or call me:)

On a more happier note, I'm getting a new bike. Yes I'm going to start cycling/racing:) In September I'm running a triathlon with Paige so I thought now would be a perfect time to start training. So my friend Curt spent some time today helping me research some of the most amazing bikes:) I'll let you know what I find, but here's one that I was looking at:)

WPPI:) Whirl Wind:)

2007-04-01T00:18:00.000-07:00

Wow I can't believe how crazy this last week has been. Just to show you how crazy WPPI is I've posted a picture of Missy and Amber the day after. They were breathing from an oxygen machine because it was supposed to give them more energy. Janey and I almost joined them but then we looked at Missy and as the time went on she looked more and more tired so we changed our mind:)

So many wonderful things have happened I don't even know where to begin. WPPI is amazing and I always learn so much. However, this year I only sat through one presentation and the rest of the time I was running around photographing the convention, working Gary Fong's booth, or hanging out with friends. There are so many amazing things that are going on in the photo industry, andI'm just so excited to be part of it.

It was so great seeing all of you. I wish you all lived in SB. However that would probably be a bad thing because I'm thinking we wouldn't get any work done:) I'm truly blessed to have you all in my life.

Here's a small glimpse of the fun times that we had:)

P.S. A big thank you to Janey for showing up the last 24 hours:) DORK:) Oh yes and I had to post the picture of us dancing. We were totally loosing it at the end weren't we:)

P.P.S. Kevin and Shaun......... Albumesque + Kiss = HOT

CONSERVATIVE girls gone wild weekend:)

2007-03-30T17:09:00.000-07:00

This last weekend my friend Paige invited eight of her girlfriends to celebrate her birthday down in Hollywood. Seriously we all had the time of our lives. A weekend full of dressing up, cocktails, dinner, games, dancing, and a full day of relaxing at the Spa is what she had planned for us, and is exactly what we needed. So not only did we have the most amazing time but we all got to know each other and establish new friendships. Paige sure knows how to surround herself with sweet/amazing girls, and I enjoyed getting to know every single one of them. Paige you are amazing and I love ya tons. Ok, I can't wait for our next weekend getaway. Can we say CRUISE:)

P.S. I stole some of these images off of Paige's blog:) Click here to see the complete story:)

Goodbye

2007-03-23T13:42:00.000-07:00

Ok so I'm going out to play and I'm taking the weekend off:) hehe...... Details later!

That also means I won't have e-mail access because I'm leaving my computer:) Can you believe that?

Have a great weekend and I'll see many of you very soon!!!!

Making my day:)

2007-03-20T03:27:00.000-07:00

Most of you know that I LOVE wearing black. Seriously I own black everything, it's a little crazy. Well anyways, yesterday my favorite store in the whole entire world opened up less then ten blocks away from me:) WHITE HOUSE | BLACK MARKET:) Everything in the store is either black or white, just like the name:) Ok, aren't you glad I explained that to you:)

Go check it out if you live in SB. If you live else where, just hope that they have one near you. Oh ya and boys, you're out of luck because they only carry clothes for girls:) Now that I think about it, is a black and white store even appealing to guys?hhhhhhmmmmm?

WOWsers:)

2007-03-15T00:47:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness, I have been sooooo busy and preoccupied with so many things as of recently. I've definitely neglected my blog this last week:( However, if you want to see some of things I've been up to then check out the Albumesque blog:)

Anyways, this last weekend I photographed the cutest couple. Their wedding is in July, and I can't wait!!!!! I loved hearing how they met because it was such an amazing story. One thing that I have to share with you is Scott proposed to Wendy in Paris. What a guy:)

Stay tuned for the slideshow in the next day or two:)

American Idol

2007-03-07T21:50:00.000-08:00

Has anyone been following American Idol? I'm home hanging with my parents for my Dad's 50th birthday and we've watched it two days in a row. All I have to say is the girls are totally rocking, and the boys not so much:) Four people are being kicked off tomorrow and I have a feeling that three of the guys are going:) LOL.

What do you think?

BOYS:)

2007-03-02T17:37:00.000-08:00

I've had some friends in town the last couple of days and our friend Rachel has the cutest little boy named Noah. He's such a doll and I totally fell in love with him:) Being around him for a couple of days I was reminded that boys have sooooooo much energy. They're constantly moving and getting into things. So my friend Marie and I decided to do a mini photoshoot with Noah and that way he could let some of that energy out. We took him to the park and beach. It was sooooo cute because Marie was running around trying to make him laugh and I showed him how to roll down a grassy hill. When we were all done shooting we played on the play ground. I think we'll all sleep good tonight:)

Challenged

2007-03-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

So recently I've fallen in love with hip hop. I've always loved dancing, especially swing dancing, so it's exciting when I find another type of dance that strikes my interest. I definitely feel challenged and I'm gonna have to work very hard to be good at it but that's what I find so intriguing about it. I love a good challenge. I can swing dance, salsa, waltz, two step, fox trout, and lindy, but ask me to hip hop and I have to work 100 times harder. So here I go. I'm taking lessons twice a week and during the summer I found a dance boot camp in LA that sounds amazing. I have to decide on the boot camp in the next week or so but I'm almost 100 percent positive that I'm going to do it:) The cool thing is you can sign up for a 1, 2 , 3, or 4 week boot camp. I'd probably go for a week:)

I remember when I use to take ballet. I would dance in the kithen, on my way to my room, in the living room, you name it. Well, It's happening again. This time it's to Justin Timberlake and Beyonce instead of Mozartl:)

So, if anyone's interested in dancing let me know:)

Exciting Times:)

2007-02-26T11:19:00.000-08:00

On Thursday night I went to our Santa Barbara Pug meeting. Michael and Anna Costa set up a night photoshoot for everyone. However it rained all day and I think everyone thought it was cancelled except for Janey, Andrew Vangundy, and myself:) We showed up with our cameras and PHOTOGRAPHED Michael and Anna. It was hilarious! I only took about five shots and then we used my flash as a rim light so I don't have very many to post.

Afterwards we to went to coffee and had the best time. Anna asked a great question, "what exciting things have happened recently in your business." It was so great to hear the exciting things that are going on in our industry and every single one of us had something different to share. We also talked about how we love what we do. It's the best feeling to wake up in the morning excited to start the day.

Are you excited about what you're doing? What exciting things are going on in your life and business?

Think about it:)

Amy and Amy:)

2007-02-24T19:43:00.000-08:00

It's always fun hanging with my friend Amy. Not only because we have the same first name and we always laugh when we call each others name, but Amy is a fun spirited girl and is also one of the kindest girls I have ever met. I first met Amy over a year in a half ago when she was in Junior High and I was a Junior High Leader. We would get together once a week and talk several times on the phone. Too much fun!!!!! Even though she's moved onto High School we still call each other and lately have been trying to hangout more frequently. Sometimes I wonder why a high schooler or Junior Higher would want to hangout with dorky me:) ???

Anyways, I took Amy to this great Thai place called Your Place. It seriously has the best Thai food in Santa Barbara. It's soooo yummy!!!!!!!!! I always love asking her tons of questions about life and tonight it was so cute because I asked her "do you like high school" her response was "ummmm it's ok it's not my favorite, I really miss Kindergarten". It was so cute:) It really got me thinking though, man life was so simple in Kindergarten. No worries, stress, or pressure of any kind. Wow times have changed:)

So, here's a picture we took on our way out of the restaurant:) I look pretty tired because it's been a super crazy week with so many exciting/amazing things that have been going on. (more on that later) Another reason why I look exhausted is I took a hip hop class this morning and followed it up with a long hike and some fun shopping:) Oh yes and the night is still young...... More designing and dancing are still to come:)

Have a great night...

Flying = not my favorite thing to do:) LOL

2007-02-16T17:19:00.000-08:00

"Heads down, heads down, heads down, heads down, "get ready for several impacts", "this landing is going to be faster then normal", "tuck your head and place your arms on the seat in front of you", "leave all your carryions", were the many horrifying things that came through the intercom on flight 2477, destination Seattle. I have always loved flying and for once in my life I was scared to death of it.

Once the pilot in his calm voice said "one of the hydrolics on the plane stopped working", right away I looked at Janey and asked, "ummm, how many hydrolics do we have"??? We had no idea and no time to ask because the flight attendant started preparing and instructing us for an emergancy landing. Janey and I broke out in a uncontrollable laughter. Nothing about the flight was funny except we didn't know what else to do:) Crazy things always happen to us when we're together and we just had to laugh about it:) lol... The laughter soon stopped when we heard "get ready for several impacts". I then started to get teary eyed but Janey was brave and to hear her say we're gonna be fine, made everything so much better:) Even though I knew she was scared, she just hides it really well:) We put our heads down and prepared for who knows what.

The good news was the rescue/emergency team was waiting for us at the bottom (or was that good news???), and the Seattle Airport opened up their 11,000 foot runway for our tiny plane:) YAY!!!! We landed safe and sound and applouded our brave pilot:) the first words that came out of Janey's mouth was "I love you Amy". We started laughing again. It was good to be alive:) We grabbed or carryions and headed for the door. I've never gotten off a plane that fast in my life. It was a crazy terrifying experience that I'm so thankful is over:) The bad news was we had two more planes to catch. I remember thinking, I wonder how long it would take if we drove from Seattle to Santa Barbara:) LOL....

As Gary says, these are definitely bonus days for us:)

I'm home safe and sound in Santa Barbara and I'm so thankful that I don't have to fly until next month:)

Our Last Day:(

2007-02-13T16:05:00.000-08:00

So today is our last full day in Canada:( Janey and I are sad to leave but we know we'll be back so we keep focusing on that:) We've had an AMAZING time and are so thankful for the amazing friendship and generosity that Gary and Melissa have shown us.

I'm a little on the tired side because we went skiing for two days straight, and yesterday I had a little bit of a wipe out on one of my last runs so I'm a little stiff, but as Gary always says, I'll be fine:) Janey is super cute when she skis, she has the perfect bunny hop. Melissa makes me laugh, she throws her polls in the air and screams all the way down. LOL.... And Gary drags his polls in front when he skis because he says it helps him to feel the ground. hmmm, what a smart guy. LOL........

Anyways, we're off to sit in the Jacuzzi:) YAY!!!!!

Running around in Canada:)

2007-02-10T00:06:00.000-08:00

I really love Canada this time of year. I remember visiting Gary and Missy the same time last year and it was the first time that I actually had experienced the whole winter wonderland. I remember one of the highlights being that a blizzard came in:) I hope it does it again this year:) Right now we are in town but on Sunday we head up to the mountains to snowboard and ski:)

So today we worked out, went to the ranch and had a wonderful day just hanging with Gary and Melissa:) Then later on in the evening the Becksteads drove in and we finally got to see Kassandra who is super pregnant. She is adorable.... NO SKIING FOR HER though:)

I'm so thankful for the amazing friends that I have in my life and the memories that we make during times like these I will cherish forever.

Ok, it's bedtime for me. I hope you all have the most amazing weekend.......

WE ARRIVED!!!!! SAFE AND SOUND:)

2007-02-08T21:30:00.000-08:00

So this morning I woke up after only having two hours of sleep. I was so excited about our trip to Canada, I just couldn't sleep anymore:) My roommate, Summer, dropped Janey and I off at the airport and off we went:) I love traveling with Janey because we talk, laugh, and have the best time together. Lets just say it's never a dull moment when we're together. For a moment I wasn't sure If I was going to be able to control myself because we both we're laughing hysterically. When our day of traveling was finally over we we're greeted by two of the cutest faces, Missy and Gary:) We love them!!!!!!!

So, now we are here safe and sound just relaxing which is exactly what I needed. Tomorrow Janey, Gary and I are heading to the gym kinda early so I better get to bed:) I think Missy is going to stay home so she can take care of Ben the bunny:)

I'll post some more pictures tomorrow. Janey and I both agreed that we need to take more pictures so here's a few from our fun traveling experience:)

All Smiles:)

2007-02-07T23:19:00.000-08:00

I'm soooooo excited because in 5 1/2 hours Janey and I are heading to Canada to spend the week with Missy and Gary:) Whenever we spend time with them we always have the best time and our stomachs hurt from laughing so hard:) To top it off, Kassandra and David Beckstead are heading up to meet us on the 9th:) WAHOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!! Kassandra is about ready to have her baby anyday so NO skiing for her:)

I won't be able to use my phone while I'm gone but I will be checking my e-mails so if you need to get a hold of me shoot me an e-mail:) I just got a the new Razor phone that came out and I'm totally in love with it. I've been using it all day and I'm so sad that I won't be able to use it in Canda. Oh well:( I'll just use it when I get back, hehe!!!!

I hope you all have an amazing week!!!!!!!
Amy

P.S. I shot a wedding with Janey this past weekend and I have tons of eye shots that I want to post but these two will have to do for now:)

Tis the season:)

2007-02-02T00:39:00.000-08:00

Ok, I thought my blogging was going to get better, but I'm getting worse:( AHHHHH!!!

Anyways, on Saturday I was the second shooter for Mary Jane, AKA Janey:) In case you've never met or seen Janey she's the girl in the first picture. We we're trying to get creative with different lighting situations and she was the model:) I had to be the model for a second but it wasn't nearly as beautiful:)

The wedding was a great kick off to the start of another amazing wedding season. I'm so excited because when I'm not shooting my own weddings I'll be shooting with her, and she has so many amazing weddings lined up so I'm definitely excited:) One's actually in Puerto Vallart:) YAY!!!!! I'm also shooting with her this Saturday so I'll make sure to post some pics on Monday:)

Also, don't forget to check out Janey's new website. It's amazing!!!!!!!

Janey's new website CLICK HERE

Have a great Friday everyone:)

P.S. I think it's gonna snow in Santa Barbara:)

If Photography doesn't workout:) LOL...

2007-01-27T23:32:00.000-08:00

Ok, if Amy Nave Photography or Albumesque doesn't workout I'm going to join the bowling league:) LOL.... Last night I went bowling with Janey, Mark, and some of Marks friends and it was a blast. I use to be on a bowling league when I was young so everyonce in a while my bowling techniques come back to me and I get a few strikes. Well last night I seriously bowled a 208. Can you believe that. Ok so I'm a little competitive:) Actually the music that was playing was amazing so that definitely helped. Janey is a goof ball and at one point Mark and I were like Janey, focus, stop dancing, look at the arrows and bowl:) LoL, we love you Janey:) Mark was super low key and was a pretty good bowler as well. He actually beat me the first game but only by four so I won't show that score:) hehe....... Even when I finally beat him he gave me a high-five and walked off the floor with his head held high:) What a guy:) Here are a few pics of us bowling. We tried to tell mark that when you hang with photographers my little camera comes everywhere:) If you don't have a picture then it didn't happen:) That's what my mom always says:)

Janey and Mark, it was a blast:)

WPPI - Here I come:)

2007-01-26T15:01:00.000-08:00

I'm very excited because I finally booked my room at Paris for WPPI. I was getting a little worred because rumor has it that Bally's is completely full, but that's fine with me I prefer to stay at Paris anyways:) When you think about it though, it doesn't really matter where you stay because the time spent in your room is like NEVER:) So my question for you is are you going? If so when are you arriving and when are you leaving?????

Can't wait to see you all there!!!!!!

LIVE LIFE BABY!!!!!!!!!

2007-01-25T13:44:00.000-08:00

Wow, I'm seriously the worst blogger ever. Good thing my New Years resolution wasn't to blog everyday. However, my website says I do. Oops:) I'll get better, or I'll have to change my video on my website. LOL, just kidding:@)............

I've been extremely busy lately and I love it:)

This last weekend my friend/roommate (Summer) and I went to my parents for the weekend. We had a blast. My parents took us to a play called "Shadow Land". It's based on the Life of C.S. Lewis. It was amazing and there wasn't a dry eye in the house:)

Another exciting event was the Pug meeting that Michael and Anna Costa hosted last night. Sara France, Shyla, and Amelia Lyon all came up and it was a great time forsure. It's so exciting to hear how everyone is doing and believe me, you're gonna want to keep your eyes and ears open because these amazing photographers are leading the way and this year is going to be amazing, so stay tuned!!!!!!! :>)

Anyways, I have soooo much to do so I'm out:)

More later:)

Did you know this about me???

2007-01-18T00:06:00.000-08:00

Growing up I always loved to read. I use to participate in reading competitions and I actually have trophies for reading thousands and thousands of pages. (hmmm, not that many people know that about me). HA HA!! What's crazy is I loved to read and I think it was because I wasn't forced to. As soon as I hit High school and college, things definitely changed and the love for reading wasn't there as much. So, the exciting news is recently I started reading every night before bed. It's been great. I'm reading "Rich Dad Poor Dad" and even at 2:00 in the morning I'm still reading. Hopefully I'll have it finished by the end of this week:) I think everyone has read it except for me so after the 10th person recommended this book I finally decided to grab it:) Thanks everyone:)

What's your favorite book??????????? What should I read next?

Ok, gotta go read:)

Laughter = Good for the heart:)

2007-01-14T00:10:00.000-08:00

Today was definitely a wonderful day full of laughter with some of my amazing friends that I'm so blessed to have in my life:) Beautiful Shyla drove up to Santa Barbara to go wine tasting with Tim, Cheryl, Dee, Summer and myself:) We drove to the San Yanez Valley and we couldn't have asked for a more beautiful day. The girls weren't big drinkers so we definitely ate tons of pretzels to off set the yummy wine:) Now the boys on the other hand definitely held their own and if it wasn't for the tasting rooms closing I think they'd still be going at it:) LOL, just kidding:)

Anyways, we took a group shot at all of the wineries that we stopped at:) You guys, it was a fun and amazing day that I hope we repeat very soon. :) Oh yes, and Sushi Next week, right Tim????????

On a side note, after wine tasting Shyla, Summer, and I walked down to Borders to buy a book, and it was sooooo cold outside, I seriously think it's going to snow:)

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I'll leave you with one of my favorite quotes........

"Take time to smell the roses" and that's what we did today:) Funtimes forsure:)

Made me smile:)

2007-01-11T17:36:00.000-08:00

I finished editing a wedding a couple of days ago and I came across an image that made me breakout into laughter. I smile everytime I look at him:) So cute:)

FINALLY:)

2007-01-09T13:14:00.000-08:00

This week I was going to finally bite the bullet and buy a Blackberry, but today I found out that Mac just announced their new iphone. So now I'm thinking twice about the Blackberry. Has anyone purchased the iphone and if so do you absolutely love it? Also, if you have a Blackberry what's been your experience with it?

Yes it's time to finally get rid of the flip phone:) LOL.....

BABIES ARE IN:)

2007-01-07T23:55:00.000-08:00

Wow, I can't believe how many of my friends had babies this last year, and four more are still on the way:) I know that all my friends are going to be the best Moms and Dads, and it makes me even more excited for the little ones because I know that they've been blessed with amazing parents:) This weekend my friend Kendra had her baby shower. It was hilarious because every time a cute outfit, booties, or stuff toy appeared everyone would start screaming in awe, including me:) Except no one screamed in awe when she opened the baby monitors that I gave her. Hey safety first:) At least she said I really needed this. Actually now that I think about it, know one screamed when Kendra opened the air purifier that my mom gave her. LOL...... Are we paranoid or just practical gift givers:)?????? LOL....

Compliments are a girls best friend:)

2007-01-06T00:26:00.000-08:00

When someone compliments a girls it can definitely make her night. What I think is funny is how girls shy away when someone compliments or we say something trying to be funny because inside we don't know what to say. I guess we could blame it on our insecurities, or maybe it's because we don't hear them enough. What I always wonder is why can't we can't just take the compliment and say thank you, because deep down in side we love compliments and need them daily, or at least I do:) Now the reason I bring this up is I just finished Swing dancing and the compliments I get are out of this world. You would die laughing they are soooo hilarious. The funniest one is "Dancing with you is like driving a car with power steering". What do you say to that. I was like "uuuuhhhhhh dancing with you is like driving a dump truck" JUST KIDDING...... Tonight the compliments were pretty normal. At the end one of my friends said "I love your turns". LOL.... So I said "I feel like a car":) KIDDING AGAIN, I said THANK YOU:) Haha.........

Anyways..... Don't forget to compliment. If you need help then just use the power steering compliment, or the dump truck:)

Talk me into it:)

2007-01-04T13:31:00.000-08:00

Who's going to the PPA convention in Texas?

I've been totally debating on going, so talk me into it:)