Sally Metzger / Salem, OR Maternity Photographer

How do I begin to say how much I love this woman who has made such a big impression on the very fabric of who I am? Sally is my sister by blood, but she's my friend for life. I thank God everyday for the closeness my family shares, and Sally is part of this wonderful family. She may claim the woes of the middle child, but man did she turn out cute, with a wonderful husband (seriously the most romantic guy I know) and as you can see, a baby!

Sally and I have been through a lot together, maybe that's a silly statement considering we're sisters, but we have. I've been overseas with her 4 times, one being when my family lived in Poland when I was 8 and she was 10. The other times were China and Kosovo, as teenagers on short term mission trips. Three years ago in 2007 we ventured into a very unknown place, Massachusetts for college at the Hallmark Institute of Photography. It was 10 months of brutally hard work, and even worse weather. The snow and ice were nothing short of evil. I hate the cold! Somehow we managed to get through all the experiences together, in spite of the 100 ft stretch of slippery ice in between the car and apartment. When I think of the most challenging times in my life, the moments that molded and shaped me the most into who I am, Sally was there. I can look back now and realize how much I appreciate her.

Sally is now a mother to Sailor, who's almost one week old today. She's an inspiration to me, another woman who is selfless and bold enough to step into the world of motherhood and love someone more than yourself. I think of moms and realize I can be pretty selfish. She's already such an amazing mom to Sailor who was born last Sunday. She doesn't know it yet, but Sailor's got an amazing family and awesome life ahead of her! Oh, and a really fun aunt who will slip her candy when mom isn't looking!

Today as you enjoy your Super Bowl Sunday maybe you're with friends at a bar, maybe you're enjoying family and a food-filled house (me!), maybe you could care less and are watching I love Lucy at 3PM on the Hallmark channel (shameless plug). Whatever you're doing, take 2 minutes to think of someone who has made an impact on your life, and tell them how much they mean to you. It does the soul good to love and appreciate others.

Love someone today, and enjoy these photos of my adorable sister Sally! I'll be sharing some photos of Sailor's first hour in a few days!

See what I mean? SO CUTE!

target plaid top + great-grandma's quilt = pretty priceless!

I love you Sal-gal!

Ben & Lena / Maternity / Salem OR Photography

Simply an adorable couple to work with, Ben & Lena filled their session with plenty of laughter and good conversation. Their friend had purchased a gift certificate for Lena's baby shower gift and I couldn't have been more privileged and excited to be part of this special gift! I also get to look forward to doing newborn photos of their first little addition to their family. I can't wait!

I think we caught the last hints of fall just in the nick of time, and my was it glorious!

Carli Previews - Salem, Oregon Maternity Photographer

This is Carli, my super-hero big sister. Last night at 6:59 she gave birth the the most scrumptious little girl, Sofia Ella Grace. These I took about a week and a half ago, crazy to think she was just waiting to come out. I'll post some pictures of her soon.

Here's a few Previews from Carli's 2nd Maternity Shoot!

Can't stand how gorgeous she is!

Lucas Tibbs - Salem, OR Newborn Photographer

You may remember Matt & Beth, I took maternity pictures of them not long ago. They have to be one of the sweetest couples I've met, they sincerely love and care for one another and in moments of meeting them they felt like dear friends.

Lucas was born July 16 at 3:55 AM, ten days AFTER the due date. Yikes! Way to push through mom! he was 9.2 lbs and 21 inches long.

When I met him he was...12..? Yes, about 12 days old and as awake and lively as ever. As you can see, he didn't sleep much, he was rather attentive and interested in the camera. Bonus!

I just can't get over how cute he is, I'm sure you'll agree. I don't usually throw this word around but he truly is precious! And already has quite a bit of character shining through as you'll see in his quirky little expressions!

Alright, without further ado, Lucas!