Only God can create something this beautiful!!!!

When He got into the boat, His disciples followed Him. And behold, there arose a great storm on the sea, so that the boat was being covered with the waves; but Jesus Himself was asleep. And they came to Him and woke Him, saying, “Save us, Lord; we are perishing!” He said to them, “Why are you afraid, you men of little faith?” Then He got up and rebuked the winds and the sea, and it became perfectly calm. The men were amazed, and said, “What kind of a man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey Him?”
-Matthew 8:23-27

30 Day Photography Challenge, Day 16 - Long Exposure

Ya.... I need major help in this area. I tried a few different things and in the end, I didn't really like any of them. I definitely need lots of practice with long exposures.... oh, and a tripod! :)

Here's Lady playing with her hamburger toy!!! :)

30 Day Photography Challenge, Day 15 - Silhouette

When I think silhouette, it reminds me of vintage silhouettes. So, that is what I wanted to try my hand at. I definitely need lots more practice... but here's what I ended up with. Michael was definitely more willing to let me take his photo when he knew he didn't have to truly pose and smile... :)

30 Day Photography Challenge, Day 14 - Eyes

It was a total no-brainer when I saw today's challenge topic..... my baby has the best blue eyes!


My honey went fishing yesterday and caught a couple walleye. I was up for a real challenge, so I tried to photograph the walleye. I knew it would be a difficult to get a good picture of it's glowing eye... and this is what I ended up with. I took a bunch of them and finally hit the angle just right... Not too bad, I guess.

30 Day Photography Challenge, Day 13 - Me with 13 Things

Me with 13 espresso beans! As I was making my latte this morning.... I thought these yummy things would make a cute pic. I'm in the picture... see, my shadow! :) And my hand! :)

30 Day Photography Challenge, Day 12 - Sunset

I love, love, love sunsets (and photographing them)! I knew exactly what I was going to do for today's challenge. I am super blessed to live in beautiful west Michigan. And fall is my absolute favorite season! The apple orchards are stunning and so are the corn fields! I couldn't decide which image was my favorite, so I'm sharing them all!!!

First, sunset over a corn field~

Sunset over a meadow with a forest in the background~

Sunset over apple orchard with a wind turbine~

Sunset over apple orchard and apple crates~

To join in the fun or see what others are posting, check out the FUN FAMILY BLOG!!!!!

Book Report: Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah

This beauty took me over three weeks to read, and it wasn’t because I didn’t want to read and read and read! With work, school and life, it’s taking me longer than normal to read books lately. Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah was one I’ve had my list of books to read for a long time. It was not, however, one that I had at the top of my list because someone had told me it was “just okay”. Then, my sweet friend Pam read it in a day! She absolutely LOVED and adored this book so I knew I had to read it right away as we have very similar tastes in what we read.

Firefly Lane is a book about two friends and everything they go through in life together… and apart. The story expands over three decades and so much happens. This is a sweet, special story about love and hope and forgiveness. Kate and Tully were two characters that I could really relate with. I have a BFF… My Lynn will forever and always be my BFF. We met in 7th grade and became friends the moment we met…. And have been ever since. Kate and Tully were the same way. And although my Lynn still lives in Minnesota and I live in Michigan, and we don’t see each other or talk as much as we’d like, she’ll always be my BFF and I know that her and I have a love that will last forever just like Kate and Tully! I really loved this book…. Probably one of the best books I’ve read in a long time. Kristin Hannah is rapidly becoming one of my favorite authors… Right up there with Diane Chamberlain and Jodi Picoult.

(My BFF Lynn and I in High School.)
Lesson learned: A book that someone else thinks is “just okay” may just be one that I think is amazing. Read it myself (and sooner) to find out! Now, I completely understand that not everyone will think this book is amazing… you might even think it’s “just okay”, but you’ll never know if you don’t read it so hurry and do so!

SPOILER (kinda) ALERT: Don’t read any further if you don’t want to know too much about the story, but following is some great information. I think this book would make a fabulous Lifetime-type movie (ooo.... maybe Lynn and I can play Kate and Tully!). Not only because of the dynamics of Kate and Tully’s friendship but because the author covers a very important topic – inflammatory breast cancer. Obviously you can guess that one of the characters ends up with this horrible disease. But the thing that really tugged at me was that I had never heard of this! We all know about self-examinations, mammograms and breast lumps in the typical breast cancer, but I was ignorant to the fact that redness, tenderness, swelling and skin-puckering can be an indicator of breast cancer as well, just a different kind. I don’t believe the awareness is as high for this type of breast cancer which is unfortunate because it’s just as life-threatening and can be misdiagnosed as a breast infection which can lead to deadly consequences. I think it’s important that the awareness is raised for inflammatory breast cancer so I wanted to share a great informational article that the Mayo Clinic has published. Please take the time to read this and share it with women you love.

30 Day Photography Challenge, Day 11 - Something Blue

My B-E-A-U-T-I-F-U-L fish!!!!!!!!!!!
They weren't cooperating with me at all..... so this is what you get! :) They'd rather splash water out of the tank instead of pose for pictures!

30 Day Photography Challenge, Day 10 - Childhood Memory

There was no way I could go with just ONE Childhood Memory. I could have actually done tons of images for this. I am super passionate about nostalgia.... especially when it comes to my childhood memories and things I had. This past Memorial weekend, we went back to Minnesota for a visit and my sister and I were digging around in my old closet, I found some things from my childhood! I was squealing with delight!!!!! :)

First, I found my clown Halloween costume from when I was maybe 4 or 5. This thing is so filthy from playing dress-up in it for so long... but I don't dare wash it for fear it would fall apart!

Next is my Lite-Brite!!!!!! I couldn't believe it! It was still in the box, had plenty of papers left (some done and some not done), and the old orange Tupperware container that contained all the pegs! Oh how I hoped it still worked. So today, I got that baby out and put a new light bulb in and sure enough, it works just like it did so long ago (gosh, probably 25-30 years ago)!!! I had SO much fun creating this clown!!!

Next, who remembers these cute little Campbell's Soup cups??? This one is not mine, but one I found at an antique shop! When I saw it, I just had to have it!

And we can never forget Pepsi in a glass bottle! That was the best, most refreshing drink ever!!! I found this bottle at an antique shop.

I have so many more things around here that I could have photographed.... my Fashion Plates, Boggle game, Childcraft books, vintage Valentines and Birthday cards, books... the list could go on and on. What I REALLY want to get my hands on is a Super Spirograph!!! And can you believe my dad still has his Super Thingmaker???

To join in the fun or see what others are posting, check out the FUN FAMILY BLOG!!!!!

30 Day Photography Challenge, Day 9 - Someone I Love

This is my son, Michael. He is such a sweet, caring and funny 15-year-old. But... this 15-year-old doesn't care to have his picture taken... and getting a smile pretty much impossible. I love him SO much.

To join in the fun or see what others are posting, check out the FUN FAMILY BLOG!!!!!

Is this even allowed???? Something strange is going on....

So I was browsing through some books and came across a book called "Every Time We Say Goodbye" by Jamie Zeppa. The book sounds like it would be a great read. According to Amazon, it was released this past March but it's not for sale on Amazon, except for through sellers....and at the bargain price of $32.95-$36.93? And there are no reviews. Wierd.

As if all of that isn't wierd enough, I read a fabulous book last summer called "Shelter Me" by Juliette Fay.... and I always adored the cover of this book. I admit it, I totally judge books by their covers.... and the only reason this book actually grabbed my attention in the first place is because of the cover. I'm glad it did, because it was an absolutely fabulous read. But, you wanna see something fascinating and interesting?????

How is this even possible? Is this even allowed? Or maybe the book isn't for sale any longer is because of this conspiracy! :) Maybe they are involved in some ginormous lawsuit and the author had to pull her book from the shelves??? I think I shall consult my best friend Google to see if I can find anything. :)

30 Day Photography Challenge, Day 8 - A Bad Habit

Piles o' papers.

Jeff drastically dislikes that I make piles of papers, mail, etc. If that is the only thing he dislikes about me, then we are doing good!! LOL! :)



To join in the fun or see what others are posting, check out the FUN FAMILY BLOG!!!!!

30 Day Photography Challenge, Day 7 - Fruit

The Fruit of the Spirit is Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness and Self Control. As we live in the Spirit, may we also walk in the Spirit. -Galatians 5:22-23


My focus is a little bit off.... to the right too much, but oh well.

To join in the fun, check out the FUN FAMILY BLOG!!!!!

30 Day Photography Challenge, Day 6 - From A Low Angle

Oh for the love of Starbucks.....


Ok, I'm all caught up to everyone else.To join in the fun, check out the FUN FAMILY BLOG!!!!!

30 Day Photography Challenge, Day 5 - From a High Angle

When I saw what day 5's challenge was, I knew I had to go to the Grand Rapids Fish Ladder. The salmon migrating upstream is going on in full force.... I could sit want watch them jumping up the ladder for hours! I took this shot from above, looking down at one of the jumps.

I'm trying to get caught up with everyone else in the challenge, so I'm posting multiple a day for a couple days. To join in the fun, check out the FUN FAMILY BLOG!!!!!

30 Day Photography Challenge, Day 4 - Something Green

Can the candles that are available this time of year be any yummier???? Today, Bath and Body Works is having one of their fabulous scent events.... with any home fragrance purchase, you receive a free cute bag along with three cute and yummy mini candles. I knew right away which candle I was absolutely getting.... this green Apple Crumble candle reminds me of fresh warm apple crisp. Yum.


I'm trying to get caught up with everyone else in the challenge, so I'm posting multiple a day for a couple days. To join in the fun, check out the FUN FAMILY BLOG!!!!!

30 Day Photography Challenge, Day 3 - Clouds

When I looked up and saw the reflection of the clouds on the side of the children's hospital, I knew this was my day 3 image!


I'm trying to get caught up with everyone else in the challenge, so I'm posting multiple a day for a couple days. To join in the fun, check out the FUN FAMILY BLOG!!!!!

30 Day Photography Challenge, Day 2 - What I Wore Today

When I am not working, I am normally in a Central Michigan University t-shirt, hair in a pony tail with my favorite black headbands, Fendi glasses, wedding ring, hoop earrings and my beloved Pandora bracelet! (Don't mind my pasty white skin... not a fan of the sun. Please don't throw tomatoes at me for saying I don't like the sun. Not too sure about all these self-portraits either.)



Join in the fun at the FUN FAMILY BLOG!!!!!

The Light In Me

Anyone who knows me, knows that music is a huge part of my life. It speaks to me in huge ways and in ways that nothing else can. And it's usually music that speaks to me the most about God's love for me. Lately though, I haven't been inspired by many of the new songs on the radio... until I heard Brandon Heath's new song "The Light In Me". I think it was the melody that first stirred something in my heart, but once I really listened to the words, I found God speaking to me and it is just I needed to turn that flame back up in my heart. Lately my faith has been feeling just lukewarm.... and, slowly but surely, it's catching on fire again.

Side note: I saw Brandon Heath in concert in May... and let me tell you, he sounds just as good in concert as he does on his albums and in his videos! It was a huge blessing to hear him, along with Natalie Grant and Mercy Me, in concert. I'd definitely go see him again.


My life before You
I was a flame burning down
I was burning out

But You knew me better
For You there was never a doubt
God, since You gave me life
Something was different, I knew it the instant
You put the light in me

The spark, the shot to the heart
You are the hope that leads me out of the dark
You let Your love shine down
So that the world could see
You put the light in me

The light, You put the light in me
The light, You put the light in me
The light, You put the light in me
The light, You put the light in me

You are the Maker, you tell the sun when yo rise
I'm just a house on a hill
But You make me brighter than all the stars in the sky
Keep me from growing down

'Cause in Your perfection, I'm just a reflection
So pull me closer to You
I catch like a fire and I'll hold You higher
'Cause You put the light in me

The spark, the shot to the heart
You are the hope that leads me out of the dark
You let Your love shine down
So that the world could see
You put the light in me

The light, You put the light in me
The light, You put the light in me
The light, You put the light in me
The light, You put the light in me

I'll raise it high, I'll let it show
From the rooftops down to the streets below
In day and night, You will be known
And all will see
You put the light in me
'Cause You put the light in me

The spark, the shot to the heart
You are the hope that leads me out of the dark
You let Your love shine down
So that the world could see
You put the light in me

The light, You put the light in me
The light, You put the light in me
The light, You put the light in me
The light, You put the light in me

30 Day Photography Challenge, Day 1 - Self Portrait

30-Day Photography Challenge

My friend Amy just started doing a fun 30-day photography challenge and since she's always encouraging me to do things like this, I decided to take a leap of faith! 30 days is A LOT... we'll see if I can make it!!! I think it's going to be a fabulous way to think outside the box and a great opportunity to get some fantastic images! To check out the details, and perhaps join in on the fun, please visit the Fun Family Blog!!! And stay tuned.... I will have my first few posted later today or tomorrow!

Source: whitepeachphoto.com via Elaine on Pinterest

Third Sentence Thursday (#2) - Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah

Yes, I am fully aware that this is the same book I posted last week Thursday, but being the mom, wife, student, employee and busy self that I am, it takes me longer than a week to read a book of this size! So, I am reposting my entry from last week... BUT this third sentence is meaning SO much more to me now.... and hopefully by this time next week, I'll know EXACTLY what is behind these thoughts!

Third Sentence Thursday is a weekly meme which likes to wander around in the forest!

1) Take the book you are reading now and post the third sentence
2) Review this sentence anyway you want (funny and silly reviews encouraged)
3) Post a link to your sentence here (in the comments) or if you don't have a blog, just post it in the comments!


"In the past week (unquestionably the worst seven days of her life), she'd lost the ability to distance herself from the memories."

This story is about two best friends and their life together. I suspect much happens in their lives, not only hurtful things, but great things... all of which are haunting memories that the character is unable to distance herself from during what seems to be a horrible time of her life. This sentence takes place in the future, and the character is looking back to her teenage years and my curiosity makes me want to skip class tonight and keep reading to find out what happens.... if only I didn't have an exam. Ha!

Honey, I think you may have a fever!

Got this in an email forward from my friend Amy, and being the husky lover that I am... it was too cute not to share! :)

Photo Shoot: Shantel & Adrien

I am super excited... my little sister moved from Minnesota here to Michigan for college. This has been a dream of hers since she was a little girl... and her dream has finally come true. Even though it is her dream and she absolutely loves Michigan, it was a little tough... Adrien, her boyfriend of two years, is still back in Minnesota. They miss each other but Shantel is having the time of her life at college and is truly happy. Shantel and I have always been extremely close, so her moving here is a dream come true for me as well. I love that I get to see her every few weeks... time with her is precious. Adrien came with Shantel to move her into her dorm, so I offered to do a photo shoot of them the week before she moved in. While Adrien wasn't too keen on the whole thing (or the city), I did get some great shots! :)

My favorite....

And the rest....

Never forget....

Third Sentence Thursday (#1) - Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah

Third Sentence Thursday is a weekly meme which likes to wander around in the forest!

1) Take the book you are reading now and post the third sentence
2) Review this sentence anyway you want (funny and silly reviews encouraged)
3) Post a link to your sentence here (in the comments) or if you don't have a blog, just post it in the comments!


"In the past week (unquestionably the worst seven days of her life), she'd lost the ability to distance herself from the memories."

Wow, I'd sure like to make this a funny or silly review but man, that is a heavy, heavy sentence. I am only on chapter five and going back to read this sentence makes me wonder just what happens with the two characters in this book. I think I'll head to bed to read now.... :)

I have a dream.....

....oh how I dream of the day there is no more racism and discrimination in this world. While we have come a long way since Martin Luther King, Jr.'s infamous speech on August 28, 1963, unfortunately the world still has a long way to go. I thought a lot about this while my sister, Sheena, and I spent a couple days in Detroit this past July. Detroit has such a rich history of racism and riots and segregation and poverty and you could see this and feel this just walking and driving around this magnificent city. And I wondered why.... why does it have to be this way? I cannot tell you how huge of a heart I have for this decaying city now that I have seen it with my own eyes. I cannot stop thinking about Detroit and everything it portrays. I cannot wait to go back.

Like Martin Luther King, Jr., Tyree Guyton had a dream. A dream to rid his childhood neighborhood of violence and drugs. One of the most amazing places in Detroit is The Heidelberg Project. I visited The Heidelberg Project a couple years ago and ever since then, Sheena and I have been wanting visit together. My favorite house and art display on the block is the Dotty Wotty House. Since my last visit, Dotty Wotty has been repainted but the best part about Dotty Wotty is still there... Martin Luther King, Jr.'s picture. And I want to share with you, my most favorite picture of the trip. When I look at this picture, with the sun flaring just perfectly, I have to believe that Martin Luther King, Jr. is shining from heaven above.... telling me "Shannon, someday, in heaven, there will be no racism, no poverty, no discrimination.... so hold onto that dream."

"Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase." -Martin Luther King, Jr.



"He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away.” -Revelation 21:4
And by the way, Sheena and I got to meet Tyree, nearly right in front of the Dotty Wotty house. What a magnificent man.... it was an honor to meet him. And when I asked him why they repainted Dotty Wotty, he simply said "Because change is good." Yes, indeed.... change is good.

Finally.... My sister is blogging!

For years now I've been telling my sister she should blog! Afterall, she does have a lot of great things to say and share!!! Last week, my dream finally came true! :) Sheena is blogging about reading and cooking and life! I'm already super excited at what I am seeing! Please follow her and show her some love! :) Without further ado.... Yes, I'm a Book Geek!

Grace: Senior Photo Shoot

I had the amazing opportunity to photograph a co-worker's daughters senior photos! I will admit, I was a bit nervous because this was truly my very first shoot (for non-family members). My nerves were quickly put to rest and I had a blast!! Grace was a natural... and absolutely beautiful, which makes the job super easy!! Just a couple of my favorites....