Photography, oh my!

In the last 6 months, I have learned more about photography than I did over the last 15 years.  I took a few photography classes at BYU-I and have been using my DSLR for the last 8 years.  I really thought I knew stuff.  HA HA!  The joke was on me.  I have now taken four online photo editing classes and how to shoot in manual classes. I have been using my Canon 6D almost daily!  I can not believe how difficult it is to get a good shot.  To all my fellow photographers, keep up the good work.  It is a tough road.  Here are some examples of my work over the years.

2007

2008

 2009

 2010

 2011

 2012

 2013

 2014

 2015

Veteran's Day

I am so grateful to my ancestors, husband, friends, and countrymen for their service in the military.  With out their sacrifice, I would not enjoy the freedom I have today.  I am so blessed to be married to someone who gave up modern luxury's to defend America.  Because of Stephen's service, we have been able to afford a beautiful home, pay for school, and receive many more benefits all the time. 

Thank you!  

Stephen's Grandfather, Edward Szostakowski.

My grandma, Erna Craghead. 

Rubik's cube!

I do not have a picture, but seriously, I should have snapped one!  Monday, our family went to our semi-annual dental appointment.  Edward was scheduled at 4:30 so he walked back to my room with the hygienist. She had a Rubik's cube and Edward quickly grabbed it off her shelf.  The hygienist and I began talking for about 2 minutes as she set up.  Suddenly, Edward exclaimed, "I did it! I fixed this cube!"  We looked back and he did, indeed, solve the Rubik's cube!  It was so crazy!  He has never seen one in his life.  I was so shocked!

Edward has been doing so much better in school lately, and he has really started to like going to school.  He has finally started to enjoy learning again.  I am so grateful to his amazing teachers that find new and innovative ways to keep his active mind working.  Stephen and I have been reading "Parenting the Strong Willed Child" and I actually think it is working.  Edward is still a little aggressive towards Nolen, but in general, things are better.  Less whining and more happiness.  I love it! This morning at our devotional, we were reading about Captain Moroni defeating the Lamenites.  Edward grabbed his Book of Mormon and made a book mark.  He is starting to understand concepts and ask more questions. 

It is truly an amazing time in Edward's life.     

Halloween!!!

Saturday's are busy days! Halloween was no exception. We headed to early morning piano class at 8 AM. Then doughnuts!

We had our last soccer games of the fall season. I am so glad it's over for now. We need a break. 

Edward participated and kicked the ball during the game. It was awesome!

After soccer, I had three photo sessions and then headed over to a Halloween party! 

Edward is a ninja from ninjago. Nolen is Steve from mine craft. Stephen and I are Thor and black widow from The Avengers. 

Today, we headed to church and I was able to snap a picture of this sweet little guy. Kids grow up so fast. He will only be 4 for two more weeks. I love him. 

Autumn

Autumn is here! Such a beautiful time of year. I am looking forward to slowing down a bit this season. Soccer is almost over and that will clear up half of our Saturday schedule. 

We have been spending a lot of time with our friends at explora and galloping grace pumpkin patch. Nolen asks to play with his friend, Olivia, every single day. 

We carved painted pumpkins with Dad. 

Edward has started bringing me leaves again. I love him. 

And, of course, we dressed up for our ward trunk or treat! Edward is a ninjago, Nolen is Steve from mine craft, and I dressed up as black widow from the avengers. 

Life isn't slowing down a bit and nor would I want it to. I love these moments with my family.