I just left the house to run a few errands and I just about blew away! The wind is SO strong. Almost took my door off when I got out at Staples. Somehow when I got out of the car and the wind caught the door, I spilled a large Diet Dr Pepper on my seat. Didn’t know it until I got back into the car to go home. Luckily I had a canvas shopping bag in the back seat, which soaked up the lake of DP. I had to sit really awkwardly driving home. I was certain that people who saw me thought that I had a problem with my posterior.

Anyway, when I left my house, I noticed for the third week in a row a pile of about twenty yard waste bags full of garbage, down the block in a neighbor’s yard. The lady who lived in the house passed away about a month ago, and I’m sure her kids are going through the house and discarding. Reminded me of when we lost Tom’s parents. One day a person has a home and personal belongings that mean so much to them…or maybe not, but they just haven’t dealt with everything that has accumulated…and in a short amount of time, everything they own can be discarded and distributed to loved ones, and not much is left of what represented your life as far as material possessions. This made me ponder why we have such a hard time parting with things? Why do our homes become so full of stuff? Are we trying to hang on to things, rather than make our life meaningful with experiences and relationships? I’m preaching to myself here. I love a well appointed home and nice things, so I am guilty of hanging on to things. With the 30/30 challenge that I am still working on almost 60 days later, I know I need to let go of a lot of things. I like not having a lot of things weighing me down. I’ve really noticed a difference in my attitude when I shop. Even shopping flea markets and vintage sales, I’m much more selective. I need to tackle the rest of my list and get this place purged and decluttered. I know I’ll feel much better! I want to do it in a radical way. My deep thoughts for the day.

Donna and I had the opportunity to photograph a wedding reception this past weekend of a couple who I have a connection with, even though I hadn’t met them prior to the reception. I’ve photographed two of the bride’s brothers. I photographed her younger brother when he was a senior (he was the dude who jumped almost as high as a door frame!) and I’ve done family photos for her older brother. Great family! So I knew it would be fun. Andrew and Olivia were married in Mexico almost a month ago…I don’t know why they didn’t take me along? : ) When I spoke to Olivia on the phone a couple of weeks before the big event, I found out that they were getting ready at Hotel Deco and that the reception was at the Scottish Rites Center, both beautiful locations.

The bride’s bouquet was made by her Mom with vintage brooches and pins, many were family pieces. It is soooo pretty!

Her shoes were stunning!

The Hotel is beautiful, I just wish that the people hanging out in the lobby would have allowed us to shoot more freely…there were people everywhere!

Hotel Deco had a groupon for half price lodging and I am so mad at myself for not picking that one up!

I was a little obsessed with her shoes.

Handsome.

I had this vision for this shot of Mia…and she humored me.

Even the elevator is great looking.

They were gracious enough to let us all come up to see their room. Each room is different. Such a cool place!

The bride’s family…such fun people!

The bride’s mom also did all of the centerpieces at the reception. Talented lady.

The groom’s niece twirling.

I love to watch little people at receptions. They come ready to party!

Olivia’s Dad gave one of the funniest, sweetest Dad speeches I’ve ever heard at a wedding. Laughing one minute, crying the next. We had such a great time with this couple and their families. We felt so welcome and blessed to be sharing this night with them!

Hotel Deco - check it out!

and the food was provided by the bride’s uncle who owns Dixie Quicks (yum), which was featured on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives.

God bless your day!