Lori and Dana

I am thankful for the friendship of Lori and Dana. They are both such dear friends, who I hold close to my heart as we "do life together". Lori and Dana were wed during a small, intimate ceremony in their home on October 3rd. The wedding was followed by a dinner at one of her favorite restaurants, Bugatti's Ristorante. Zee treated her like a queen, as usual! How fun it was to begin their life together in the same place she has celebrated other milestones throughout the past year. These moments were some of my favorites that captured the happiness in their eyes and the celebration of their marriage.

Ribbons

A few weeks ago I decided to step out on a bit of a limb and enter a few of my photographs in the North Texas State Fair. I was excited about the opportunity to get some unbiased criticism and see how my photos compared to other enthusiasts. At registration, I think I was giggling with anticipation because I had never entered creative work in a contest before.

It couldn't have worked out better that my favorite band was playing the fair on opening night...so I would get to check out my photos and listen to music! After the show, we started looking for the photography section. I was so surprised to see this one first.
What was that? Could it be? Did that Blue Ribbon really belong to my photograph? After touching it, moving the ribbon, taking a second look, and confirmation from Karen, it was confirmed! I had received a 1st Place recognition!!! So then, I scurried to find my other entries.
The others both received 2nd place ribbons. I am very content with the results! The experience provided me with some valuable information about the photographs and entering the contest itself. So, if you are out at the fair...stop and take a look!

Hollie

Wow! Hollie is a beautiful "model". I really enjoyed spending this evening with her...and my photography assistant, Lori (hehe)! I will definitely return to Old Downtown Carrollton for more than just eating at Babe's.

More Flags, More Fun

With a few free tickets in hand, Lori and I braved the summer heat in hopes of capturing a few shots. It became an adventure amid other thrill seekers! I think she decided that this would be her last amusement park experience. :) Just in case she holds to that threat, I made sure she experienced the highlights of Six Flags over Texas. Here's what a few hours in Arlington rendered through the view of my lens...

A little Texas pride
The Dallas Skyline from the Oil Derrick at Six Flags with a bit of smog in the air!
A view of the Texas Giant, Ballpark in Arlington, and Cowboys stadium from the Oil Derrick at Six Flags
Batman
The Texas Giant

State Capitol

I recently had the opportunity to spend some time in Austin. I couldn't believe that it was my first time to actually tour the State Capitol. I enjoyed walking the halls and taking a few photographs of this historic building in the heart of the city.

Historic Tyler

Cotton Belt Depot

Tyler Theater on the square

Farmer's Market

I had been looking forward to going to the Farmer's Market in Tyler this past weekend. It is a place that I frequented as a child with my grandfather and great-grandmother.
As I get older, these places become more special to my heart. Grandaddy went with me on Saturday, as well. It was like stepping back in time. Each of the farmers were so welcoming and encouraging of the photography! They were also eager to chat and swap stories near the tailgates of their trucks. It was a neat place to capture shots of a scene that seems to be nearly in the past.