Day ThreeHundred-SixtyFive

Wow.  I made it.  A year.  I really can't believe it...that I kept up and that it's been a YEAR!  I spent some time tonight filing through some of the archives and it is such a journey, it really is.  From the streets of Jakarta, to the crisp air of New Zealand to the great state of Texas - and everything in between - it really was just that, a chronicle of my journey.  I'm not sure where I'll go from here, and I've been asked by many as to "Are you really going to stop?".  And the answer is yes.  MoeCakes is taking off and there is so much I can't wait to do professionally.  But will I be able to stay away?  The answer is no.  I enjoy it far too much.  I enjoy talking to no one in particular, but at the same time talking to everyone that wants to listen and look.  And bottom line, I live behind a lens and I love it.  So, maybe Daily will turn into Weekly, but I will be back, I promise.

Wow.  You made it.  A year.  Whether you have been with me since DayOne or joined in along the way or even just took a look for the first time last week.... I thank you.  Something that began really as a "I wonder if I could actually do this" became much more.  I so enjoyed hearing the "I check it every day!"  to "It's in my Favorites Bookmark" to "Maybe one day I'll make your 365!"  All of your dedication and support has meant the world and kept TheArtofDailyLife going.  So now it's your turn.  Grab that camera, iPhone, pencil and paper....whatever it is for you....and capture the art in your life.  It's beautiful.

Day ThreeHundred-SixtyFour

I just don't think any additional explanation will really enhance the awesome-ness of today's photo.  Pure genius I tell ya.

Day ThreeHundred-SixtyThree

It was definitely one of those weeks that you wish you could dump into a garbage disposal....while running.  So Friday I decided to release some of the stress of the week, in a way I've never even come close to before.  I've never been a fan of guns, more a fear of the unknown, but when the opportunity presented itself, I jumped at the chance.  I had a great friend and ex-military man, Z (who you met just a few days prior on 365) as my instructor and he rocked.  Wouldn't have done it any other way.  Started with a .22 and worked through a couple .45's, .357 King Cobra, and finished on a SCAR.  Honestly, I really have no idea what that last sentence really means.  But either way, it was completely kick ass.  What you can't see in the frozen moment above is the shaking of my hands.

Disclaimer:  I have this awesome habit of grabbing my camera on the go and then when I turn it on wherever I may be to snap a shot, there is on thing missing...the memory card.  Today was no exception.  And I was SO excited to get a great shot (no pun intended!).  So this pic was taken from my iPhone, as well as by the hubby.  

Day ThreeHundred-SixtyTwo

Crazy Hair Day in our family is basically considered and treated as a holiday.  We've got it down.  Too bad the night before I had to head to the store at 9pm for some last minute spray that I thought we had in our stash.  The stash had been raided a few months prior for someone's "Fashionista Birthday Party" - this tiny detail forgotten!  In the end....it was well worth it.

Day ThreeHundred-SixtyOne

Today I was a chaperone for Cakes KG class field trip to a local farm, known as Dewberry Farm.  Great place.... poorly run.  So it was pretty much a solid day of 1300 kids from schools around the Houston/Katy area fumbling their way through as many activities as they could with no rhyme or reason.  You know what I call that... a cluster-yea well, I'll be nice and won't go there.  But as always, capturing the images from the day kept me more than entertained, and without that bit of background knowledge I just passed your way, well, from this picture I'd say Cakes thought it was a complete success.  Love this shot.

Day ThreeHundred-Sixty

The sunrises recently have just been killer.  Too bad once we fall back I won't be seeing many more of these!

Day ThreeHundred-FiftyNine

Yesterday started my season of HolidayMini's.  And I think this little one captures the essence of everything "mini".  She just happens to be a close neighbor with parents that I adore.  And man, is this little one a firecracker.  I'm really considering using a collage of her facial expressions as my own Christmas card this year!  Can't get enough of this bundle of spunk.

Day ThreeHundred-FiftyEight

We had this fella as a houseguest this past weekend.  Not only a total sweetheart, but half ridgeback who was a spitting image (in the face) of our first ridgeback, Macey.  Couldn't help but fall in love.

Day ThreeHundred-FiftySeven

Two of my favorite people giving their impression of the "BlueSteel Stare" (for those of you unaware it's a Zoolander reference).  Classic.

Oh, and babe, this one was tweaked especially for you.  :-)

Day ThreeHundred-FiftySix

Best part behind this photo is the story.  Cakes is looking at a boy in her class during her sister's big "speaking" night at their school's dedication ceremony.  She just thinks he is SOOO FUNNY, and of course we all know what that is code for.... CRUSH.  Sorry Dad, this one will give you a run for your money.

Day ThreeHundred-FiftyFive

My new favorite spot to save the one thing I CONSTANTLY lose.  From now on, all shoots will be done in boots.  (Well, at least until Spring).  Clever, I KNOW!!

Day ThreeHundred-FiftyFour

While chatting at a neighbor's house this afternoon over a glass of wine, I heard a sort of quiet snorting behind me.  When I looked back this is what I saw.  REALLY!?!?  Can you say LOVE??  And her name is Tinkerbell.  And she's a complete sweetheart.  Can I have one?

Day ThreeHundred-FiftyThree

What do you get when you mix two little girls, a big heart, a box of chalk, a rainy afternoon, and an empty garage?

Day ThreeHundred-FiftyTwo

Beginning eight years ago yesterday, I was in a room at St. Luke's Hospital, working to meet my first child, a daughter named Alison Noelle.  I continued to work to meet this child for 31 hours, finally bringing her into this world around 10:30pm the following night (8 years ago today).  Never could I have imagined what kind of girl this baby would grow into.  In front of me today I see a smart, creative, artistically bursting, curious, sensitive, caring, beautiful - and forever unique,  eight year old little girl - and now can't imagine what kind of pre-teen, adolescent, young adult and adult she will grow into.  I'm not one of those that likes to sugar coat the realities of parenting, it's not all pretty and fun - and I'll be one of the first to admit this and discuss it in full sarcastic detail- but it IS an amazing journey.  My husband and I, WE, created this freckle-faced wonder.... and every so often it is so important stop "time" and remember, how blessed WE are to have created such an amazing human-being.  I look forward to watching her grow over the next 8 years and 8 years after that....and 8 years after that....and....

Happy Birthday to the "first" inspiration behind MoeCakes, Moe herself.

Day ThreeHundred-FiftyOne

Remember when tp'ing a friend's house was a great way to show that you cared?  Let's face it, getting up int the middle of the night to (basically) vandalize a friend's house - now THAT is true devotion!!  So just consider this a division of that same concept.  I mean, what better way to show your child that the entire day is about them then with a streamer wrapped doorway??  Maybe next year I should go back to the basics with toilet paper!?  Will that say "I Love You" even more??  All joking aside, Moe loved it!  It was a great way to start the morning with a well deserved smile.

Oh, and I must thank Pinterest.  You are a never-ending wealth of ideas that allow everyday Mom's to kick themselves and say "I should have thought of that!!"  but appear to those around them NOT on Pinterest to think they are REALLY creative!!!

Close up of the sleeping birthday girl.

Day ThreeHundred-Fifty

The next few days are pretty much centered around one thing...and that would be a special little girl's 8th birthday.  Tonight was the birthday party.  The birthday girl, four friends, one sister, and a WHOLE LOT OF giggles and shrieks, it was a "good ol' fashioned" slumber party - complete with swimming, dancing, board games, cake, presents, movies and best of all - A PILLOW FIGHT - I'd say it was a success.  Oh, and you may not be able to tell, but under that pile of giggling girls, is Dad.  :-)

Day ThreeHundred-FortyNine

Not sure if any of my followers, regulars or drop-ins even noticed, but Day 349 was actually skipped last week when I was updating my 365.  It wasn't due to not having a shot that day or a slight overlook.  It was actually done on purpose!  I did take many pictures that evening but hadn't yet gotten to the post edit side of things.  (Today I did.)  The woman on the right is a dear college friend of mine that contacted me many weeks ago asking if I would be willing to volunteer my time to photograph a special event that she is involved in and whenever I am offered the chance to give back, it isn't even a question.  This group is known as Friends of St. Jude and is a group of young professionals work and raise money for the St. Jude cause and help fight against childhood cancer.  On this evening they were having a special benefit along with Texas Young Professionals called the Hope Benefit.  It was a night of networking, socializing, silent auction, drink, food and dancing - all for one reason - to raise money for a great cause.  I was honored to be asked to capture the evening but as I get before any shoot, big or small, a tad nervous (okay, this one, more than a tad).  I'm not necessarily used to having the task of walking up to strangers and asking if I can take their picture!  Furthermore, I knew lighting would be something to address, but overall -- I just didn't want to mess up!  (Was I really qualified for this sort of thing?  Are they sure they wanted MoeCakes?  Dear lord, don't let me accidentally erase the pics!!)  But as I recently heard an inspiring photographer, Kelle Hampton, recently say during the iheartfaces Photo Conference, when in doubt or uncomfortable, the best place to be is where you (as a photographer) are most comfortable, and that's "hiding" behind the camera.  So I did just that!  All in all, it was a great evening out, a great way to catch up with an old friend, and in more ways than one, a really great learning experience.  I really do feel blessed to have been part of the night and part of the ever-growing fight against childhood cancer.

And for more from my evening at the Hope Benefit...click here.

Day ThreeHundred-FortyEight

It's just been one of those days.

Day ThreeHundred-FortySeven

It's official.  We have finally hit the age of "at home school projects".  We have completed our first one, creating a map of the neighborhood.  There were only two break downs, pretty good I'd say.  Remember this is Moe we are talking about.  The girl that falls apart any time something isn't perfect.  Notice the different color orange houses??  Tears.  See that little bit of red on one of the orange houses??  Tears.  But all in all - I'd say it was a success.  And a 100 for sure.

And for the record, she took ALL of the pictures herself.  Come on, former teacher here, I know the rules.  And it's Moe.  Do you think she would actually let me touch more than the corner?

Day ThreeHundred-FortySix

Packaging - there is so much you can do with a brand.  Too much at times.  I look forward to the day that I can drop a few bills on this side of my business.  It's so much fun to make things pretty - especially when you know how meaningful the items inside are to the person on the receiving end.  And I admit, it's fun to see MY business name stamped across things... It's a constant reminder to myself.... Yes, I did this.

Day ThreeHundred-FortyFive

Between Facebook and 365, I may be giving away my possibilities for this year's Christmas cards, but do you blame me?  Not that I'm biased or anything, but how cute are my girls???

I started the prep work yesterday for today's "Holiday Mini-Session by MoeCakes" - got them new clothes, talked up the fun we would have, curled hair and yes, threatened them just a bit -- that this would go well and we would have a good time....but you know what?!  We DID!  (Insert note below from Moe following shoot!)  

Both of them at dinner tonight told me that their "high" was the photo shoot with Mom!  How cool is that?  And the pictures really show it.  Selena Gomez in the background, crisp fall weather, and just a fun morning all around.  

Pictures shared earlier on MoeCakes Photography -- Facebook.

Goodness I love my kiddos.  Could look at these pictures a thousand times over.  That's when I know - I have some fabulous shots.  And that's why I LOVE photography.  I want to remember these moments - these mornings - these feelings - these faces.  And you should too, of your own loved ones and of your own life- if it's not me, make it another photographer or make it yourself....just capture these moments.  Freeze time.  Hold it close.  Look at it often.  It's beautiful.

Day ThreeHundred-FortyFour

What happens when you get to spend the day with Ms. Tami while Mom is out of town and Dad is at a football game?  Holiday nails - that's what!!!  I'm telling you, this woman works wonders with nail polish, acrylic paint and a toothpick.  

Day ThreeHundred-FortyThree

I will be posting more from today on my Sessions & Such blog page, but for the purposes of 365, I thought this was the perfect image of the day.  If you've ever wondered what happens when you get a group of photographers together for some hands on training - well, here ya go.  A whole lot of clicking.  And you thought having one camera in front of your face was uncomfortable!

Day ThreeHundred-FortyTwo

Today was actually spent getting to this location for a weekend away at a photography conference held at Southfork Ranch.  So, technically this picture doesn't happen until tomorrow, but it was a good represention of the weekend ahead!

Day ThreeHundred-FortyOne

Today I've been working on getting my print packages together for the Seven Lakes Junior High Cheerleading squad.  I was asked if I'd be willing do their individual and team portraits, and well, of course I wouldn't turn that down!  So last week I took one of the girls on a "test run" for settings, poses, etc.  Well this beautiful chicka just happens to be one of my very favorite girls of all time.  And this candid just happens to be one of my very favorite shots.  Complete shot, complete story, and absolutely natural.  Just stunning K.  (And don't roll your eyes...it IS.)

Day ThreeHundred-Forty

So I've quickly come to realize that I seem to be the last person to actually know what "Being Booed" is, but nonetheless, it's right up my alley.  I know- even being the Pinterest junkie that I am, nope never saw this one.  So when it happened to us last night, I was thrilled!  Really grinning like an idiot.  I just love cheesy things like this especially when it pertains to the holidays or gift giving.  And the fact that now I get to go make a couple gift baskets to leave on other people's doorsteps tonight??  Well, OKAY!!  ((Cheesy hand clapping and big smile in the background.))

And if you are one of the lone few that don't know what this is....I mean where have you been living?  Indonesia or something?  Then take a look here, it will explain....and then go ahead - get to Booing!

Day ThreeHundred-ThirtyNine

I won't lie, I spent the entire day behind the computer and didn't actually pick up my camera.  However, I was doing post-edit work from Sunday's shoot, so figured it counts.  I was getting the Sneak Peek for the same girl you saw a couple days ago up and ready, and this quickly became one of my favorites of the day.  For Carah's full Sneak Peek take a look at Sessions & Such - the blog right next door!  Or just click here.

Day ThreeHundred-ThirtyEight

Today's weather was near "fall perfection" in my book (at least Texas style).  A good 10-15 degrees cooler would make it truly perfect, but overall a pretty good fall day.  And while I enjoyed, what will be gone most likely tomorrow, I came upon this flock of birds sitting at one of Cross Creek's lakes.  They were pretty cool to watch and I love that the photo almost makes you feel like it's a true Fall scene...with changing leaves and all.  Of course, I think they are really just new trees that haven't quite taken yet (or close to dying) but what the hell.... I can pretend and so can you.

Day ThreeHundred-ThirtySeven

This gorgeous girl represents the Class of 2013....but personally she is even more than that.  I was one of the first to be called by her brother, a very good childhood friend of mine, the day she was born (while I was in HS). And 18 years later I get the privilege of taking her Senior pictures.  Thanks Carah- I'm honored you chose me to capture such an important chapter of your life.  

Day ThreeHundred-ThirtySix

What pure happiness looks like.  Congratulations to Mr. & Mrs. Trobaugh.

Day ThreeHundred-ThirtyFive

It's no secret my obsession with photographing feet/shoes during a family photo shoot.  So when today's family arrived in full converse (even mini-converse!) I knew I was in heaven.  It's amazing how much expression you can get from feet!  They are ALWAYS some of my favorite shots and today was no exception....  Truly would it be weird to have this hanging in my house?

Day ThreeHundred-ThirtyFour - Grey's Spoiler!

(I'm not sure what to even type b/c I just watched the Premiere of Grey's and I'm at a loss.  Sigh....)

But ok - onto today's pic.  (Sloan?  So unfair.)  I have a song playing through my head for this past week which is "I get knocked down, but I get up again - you're never gonna keep me down"...but it's the opposite "I get up and get knocked down again - I can't seem to keep my kids up".  Cakes is finally back up (doing her make-up work) and poor Moe is back down.  Upper respiratory and ear infection has struck.  Poor baby.  I think she would prefer the vomit.  This mom is just ready for this week to be over! 

Oh, and I have three shoots over the next three days - all of which are supposed to have rain.  Can someone please do a rain dance for me? (Of course it can't be McSteamy).

Day ThreeHundred-ThirtyThree

Obviously it's the place to be.

Day ThreeHundred-ThirtyTwo

Moe's costume arrived today -- that's both girls ready for Halloween over a month early.  Talk about being on the ball!!  Impressed?  I know I am, it very rarely seems to happen these days.  And in a house full of puke and the such here recently, I thought this picture was such a pretty contrast.

Day ThreeHundred-ThirtyOne

Temporary Tongue Tattoo.....really?  Where does this stuff come from.  And of course Cakes has already gone through all 6 of them.  But then I guess that shouldn't surprise me, please see Exhibit A.

Day ThreeHundred-Thirty

Today was spent bringing fall and Halloween to the interior of my household - love doing this!  But moreso today was about being Nurse Mom.  My poor baby, Moe, AND her Dad both woke up last night with some sort of stomach bug.  And man, did it knock them out.  Talk about gross.  I'm just praying that it doesn't go beyond those two.  Cakes and Mom are fine far away from this one!!

Day ThreeHundred-TwentyNine

Today's photo shoot was follow-up to this family's session a few weeks ago.  A gorgeous little girl named Elliot.  It was also a testament to real life.  Let's just say the shoot didn't go as this Mom had hoped.  'Controlling' an infant to do what you want (that is to go to sleep!), well, for any parent out there they know - IT DOESN'T HAPPEN.  And it was not in Ms. Elliot's schedule today to nap during her screen debut.  But the wonderful thing is that it didn't matter.  It's exactly what I love to do - capture life.  And sometimes it goes according to plan and sometimes it doesn't - but either way, the outcome is beautiful.

Day ThreeHundred-TwentyEight

Tomorrow is the first day of Fall, my FAVORITE time of year.  And what better way to celebrate then to start the holiday decor extravaganza?!?

Day ThreeHundred-TwentySeven

It must be fall.  From Thursday-Sunday, this is what my living room looks like.  Wish I actually enjoyed football and not just the beer (and guy on the couch).

Day ThreeHundred-TwentySix

The mail came today.  Along with Cake's Halloween costume....but this is all you get until the Oct. 31st.

Day ThreeHundred-TwentyFive

I will admit, it's been a long time since I've been around a newbie like this one.  Oh, how much I love them at this age now that they aren't mine!!!  He was quite the trooper, awake for the first half but finally crashing about the last 30 minutes of the shoot....and that's when I was able to grab this "frame-worthy" photo.  And as much as it looks like I added the frame post-edit....I didn't.  It's an empty frame with Mr. William inside.  Such a sweetheart.

Day ThreeHundred-TwentyFour

School is back in session, and right here in my kitchen.  Moe decided that if she had homework then Cakes needed some too.  After realizing maybe Math wasn't the way to go, I suggested she pull out the Alphabet flash cards.  If I only had a recording of this "tutor time" as well.  Let's just say Moe is a definite stickler when it comes to her teaching methods!!

10 days and finally caught up...Phew!!

Day ThreeHundred-TwentyThree

Remember that block party I spoke of in yesterday's Daily 365?  Well, it was a complete SUCCESS.  A gathering of more than 25 families (between two streets), a bike parade, 4 grills, lots of food and lots of getting to know your neighbors.  And this is a perfect example of those "little things" you don't know about your neighbors until great gatherings like this....I mean who knew the nice, quiet man, from Trinidad, named Nigel, is a "secret master" DJ??!!!  Great times and GREAT music! 

(Back-dated, Sunday, Sept. 16th)