Monday Confessions, Late Edition

Hello to my evening friends! The past couple Mondays have been marathons! Even with Labor Day last week, it seemed like we were busy prepping for school starting last week. If you've been missing my posts, lets hope I don't disappoint!

1. FLY EAGLES FLY! I am truly not a huge football fan but I don't mind watch the Eagles play now and then. I will be an expert on their season again this year though because when they win, we locals get FREE Dunkin Donuts coffee! YUM!

2. I have already burned my Yankee spiced pumpkin candle down to the bottom….did you see this article about "basic white girls and fall?" It's totally me. Guilty of most of them I think….

3. My twins started kindergarten last week! It's been a huge adjustment but they're loving it. They came home counting in Spanish today and loving it :) 

4. The 21 day fix is on special this month as a challenge pack with Beach Body! I am going to be trying it myself later this week. The CEO is promising a 10 pound weight loss by Oct 1 if you follow the plan or your money back with no questions asked! Email me if you're interested. emily@emilytroutmanphoto.com 

5. Downton Abbey Season 5 started last night in the UK! I am so jealous. Cannot wait to see what this season has in store! I am going next month to check out the costume exhibit at Winterthur Gardens and Museum here in Wilmington, DE. I will let you know what I think !

6. Ok friends, I confess that I didn't workout on Saturday or Sunday this weekend. I just needed to give my body a break. I am running out now to a 4:30 Total Body class at SDF to get a booty whooping! Have a good evening!

Monday Confessions, Vacation is over!

          We are back from our week at the beach and I am facing the reality that summer is quickly ending! Most kiddos in our area go back to school today but thankfully I have this one last week with my littles before kindergarten starts! So here goes this weeks confessions….

1. I confess that I am both very excited and nervous for this next phase of our lives with kids in school all day. I will still have Max man to squeeze on when he's not at morning preschool but it's just hard to wrap my head around. Aren't they still little chubby infants that need me for everything?! 

2. I am already on my second cup of coffee, praying it's enough to keep me going through everything I need to get caught up on! A workout is still on the to-do list for later! 

3. If you've been following my social media at all, you know my sweet Macy was "Little Miss Peach" in our towns Peach Festival parade a couple weeks back. She adored the role and loved waving to many friends! It was so fun to be a part of the festival and to see her shine. She's sometimes pegged as shy, but it's usually just the fact that she's around a very out going twin brother :) Here's Little Miss Peach in action. 

4. I read two books over vacation. One was, If I Stay, by Gayle Foreman, which was totally emotional but I liked the story. I was even lucky enough to see the movie on Saturday night while Matt took the kids to see Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles! I liked the movie portrayal of the story (except that there was such a casual approach to teen intimacy…that's a topic for a whole different day!). If you're up for an emotional but sweet story of growing up and family life, it's a good one. 

5. The other book I read was, The Kitchen House, by Kathleen Grissom. I have to say, although this story was a nicely woven historical fiction, I was not a huge fan. It came highly recommended by a friend and also is a NY Times Bestseller but it was DEPRESSING. I felt like it just keep going and there was hardly a redeeming character in the story. A lot of the characters were victim to awful circumstances but it just felt like a downward spiral all the way until the end. I definitely don't recommend this for a light hearted beach read, I should've chosen something else! 

6. I've also been doing a lot of soul searching about priorities lately. I think this is the plight of so many mothers, but especially in these days that we can entirely fill with activities and not give a thought to where all of our time goes. I am trying to keep first things first, God, Husband, Kids and the running of our household. I have also been re-reading How to Really Love Your Child by Dr. Ross Campbell. The chapter about giving each child uninterrupted focus attention is hitting home with me. It's such a gem of a book with great biblical parenting insight that I find helpful and not condemning. There are a few things that I have to step back and say no to right now, but I know this is a season with my little people and the other things will be there waiting!

7. I think I have confessed my vocal crush on Sam Smith. If you haven't heard this Brit croon yet, you are missing out! Of course I love his hit Stay with Me and I also love his remake of Whitney Houston's How will I know. Definitely check him out!! I sometimes drive around and pretend to sing his back up…

8. Short on time but want to start getting in some workouts?! Both Shaun T's Focus T25 and Tony Horton's 10 minute trainer series are on special this month through my Beachbody coaching business. I am currently gathering my clients for the September challenge group. Are you ready to make a change and get healthy? Shoot me an email and I will get you the details :) emily@emilytroutmanphoto.com

9. Details coming soon for October Mini sessions! Email me if you want in on the info, emily@emilytroutmanphoto.com

10. I will leave you with a bible verse to encourage you this week, "I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord." Psalm 27: 13 & 14 

Have a great week friends! 

Monday Confessions…

Hey friends! Ever have a Monday where your eyes are barely open and you feel the weight of everything you need to get done before your head hits the pillow again at night? I am feeling that way today. I just have a running list of lots to do this week (like everyone else) trying to get ready to photograph a beautiful wedding on Friday and then leave for vacation on Saturday!

1. I confess that stress can make me a lot less patient than I would like. I need to regularly apologize to my kids if I have been impatient or over reacted. Sorry kids…your mama is human! (I am sort of an emotional mess thinking about them starting kindergarten in just a few weeks. Am I alone there?!)

2. On the to-do list today, updating my defensive driving course. I have been spending time in front of the computer being reminded of who has the right of way and what causes collisions. I have to admit, this is really probably a good thing for all of us to! (And you get that insurance discount!)

3. I read a good easy read over the weekend upon recommendation of another blogger I follow. I read We Were Liars by E. Lockart  and it had a big surprise ending! I was a little embarrassed that it had the "teen" sticker on the outside (library book) but I can see why someone recommended it. It's a perfect pool or beach read! 

4. I am trying a new recipe for a chipoltle peach chicken tonight! I will let you know if it's good!

5. I am so excited for my current PiYo challenge group happening through my Beach Body coaching. I had one mom of two young kids text me this morning so excited because after one week of clean eating and following the exercise plan, she's down 4 pounds and 4 1/2 overall inches! It works my friends when you commit! Let me know if you want in on my next group :) PiYo is still on special through tonight here or email me with any questions! My other favorite T25 is on special with a challenge pack this month! You can get fit in just 25 minutes a day!

6. It obviously does take a village to raise a child…and I need my village! I am anxious about getting into a school routine with the twins. Any great advice out there for how you tackle mornings and get kids to school without screaming or tears?!!

7. I learned today that if you are focused and working, if you get interrupted, it will take you 15 minutes to get back on track with the same focus and productivity. I was shaking my head! As as work at home mom, I know this problem well. Any other work at home moms have great tips for me on how to get focused work done while not having constant distractions?

8. Vacation is this weekend…5 days stand between me and the beach!! What books should i be taking? (that is if I get to read any!) 

9. I am going to be "that mom" for one minute and tell you that my Macy is going to be Little Miss Peach this weekend in our towns Old Tyme Peach Festival parade! She is beyond excited to represent our town and ride in the parade! Photos will come next week I am sure :) 

Wishing you a wonderful week and now back to my defensive driving…

Monday Confessions from my new website!

       It's finally here and I couldn't be more excited! It's only just about August and it was a new years goal of mine to get the website updated, so better late then never right?! I truly am happy to present my more recent work in a fresh way. I MUST say a big thanks to my husband for helping with some of the technical aspects of getting a new site up and running! He's also my favorite designer so he has good editorial input! HUGS AND KISSES to you Matt!! 

As for today's confessions…

1. I confess that I am no where near "together" and as "organized" as I would like to be. This new website is the perfect example, because I wanted it up in January. I will definitely say though that it's OK to not have it all together friends. If you would've seen me today running around town with the kids still in my workout gear (I did see quite a few of you too between the library and grocery store :)….you would know that I sometimes live in survival mode. Don't we all?!
2. I am dealing with a nasty case of poison ivy on my arm. Seriously, why does poison ivy even exist on earth? It's gross and itchy! I am also pretty sure I was no where near poison ivy myself, I must have contracted it from Matt's laundry is the only thing I can guess?! 
3. I just finished up a fascinating yet haunting book last week. A House in the Sky: A Memoir by Sara Corbett and Amanda Lindhout was such a good read, I had a hard time putting it down! It's the tale of a sprouting photo journalist just crazy enough to venture into Somalia for a story and what she got was the haunting and crazy story of her life. Amanda Lindhout found herself captive to muslim extremist kidnappers and what she endured for 15 months was hard to read at times. I am thankful though that she survived to tell her story and shed light on life for those in other countries, especially women. I have found myself pondering quite a bit the plight of women in the world, especially those oppressed by fanatical religious beliefs. The extremist banned such horrible things as music but thought nothing of abusing Amanda in more ways I care to count. These things do not make sense to me! In the year 2014, it's still illegal for women in Saudi Arabi to drive. All of this to say, read this book and remember why you shouldn't complain about the US. I know the US has all kinds of trials today and could benefit from reform, but as a woman, I am so very thankful to live here! 
4. I am on week five of the PiYo schedule and really loving it! I am liking the idea that you can sculpt your body with your own body weight. If you're even vaguely interested, PiYo is still on special until Thursday night at midnight, go here to check it out. I am hosting a challenge group starting next week with a friend if you want in on the fun (or at least in on the results!) 
5. I truly cannot believe the end of the week starts August! Time is quickly passing us by and my twins start kindergarten in Septemeber (sniff, sniff). I am trying to make a "summer bucket list" of things I want to try to do before it's all over. What are some of your summer bucket list ideas? 
6. If you don't already know this, Cheesecake Factory is doing half price cheesecake all day on Wednesday July30th! Yes, I realize I just talked about working out but I also appreciate good food!  You can't beat half price cheesecake but you better do a workout first :) 
7. Dean just walked in and said "Maxwell just did the biggest, naughtiest thing ever…" while he was supposed to be asleep?! I better go investigate friends…I am afraid and cutting this party short! Have a good week friends!

Monday Confessions

  We were up and out early with swimming lessons this morning! The twins are getting pretty great in the pool but need to work on form and confidence. Max has a bit of a longer way to go, so we are glad for the opportunity to get in some lessons this summer! So what else do I have to confess today you ask?

1. I confess I am kicking off a challenge in a Piyo group! I am a challenger...being challenged to do this different type of workout to see if it can change my body and push me past the plateau I am living in. It's a combination of yoga, pilates and other moves aimed to get you definition while not stressing your joints. It's a mental shift for a lot of us cardio addicts! So far I am loving it... 

2. Can I confess to you internet that I struggle to do total clean eating?? It's a goal of mine to stick to this month. I know I am a sugar addict when I let myself be! It's rough, but I am working so hard on trying to eat for nutrition and not for any other reason. Do you need help getting motivating and reaching your fitness goals? You can always reach out to me! emily@emilytroutmanphoto.com If you're already a clean eating freak, what's your favorite recipes?!

3. My kids built bug houses this weekend at the Home Depot kids workshop. We love those workshops if you haven't even been, it's free and fun! The bug houses are a big hit! They've been searching for "pets" all day and finding bugs. It's good to be a kid sometimes :) Who hasn't waited for the fireflies to come out just to catch a few?!

4. We had a great fourth of July. We were sad when our towns parade was canceled but we had lots of fun watching fireworks at night! What's your favorite thing to do on the fourth?

5. If you're a shutterfly user, they're offering 101 FREE prints now through tomorrow I believe with the code JULY101. I am uploading now! I am trying to be better about getting things off my computer and into real life :)  

6. Any moms out there have good tips on keeping kids clothes organized?! I feel like their closet is a disaster. I have a bin for "too small" and a bin for the winter stuff but it's hard to keep it all straight. I think my issue is confounded with the fact that the boys can almost share a size but they don't share a room. Ever feel like you're just drowning in stuff?! 

7. I confess I am addicted to fresh summer peaches. I can't keep enough of them in the house!! These were my cute summer lunch dates today :)

8. I have been in a little bit of a book drought. I have a list of suggestions from others so I am just waiting on my holds to come in from the library. I finished a couple books last week but nothing overly inspirational. I am always open to book ideas if you've read something good lately :) Especially with a beach vacation coming in August..I might get to read a thing or two if I am lucky!

9. I confess it's been hard for me to squeeze in the kindergarten prep with the twins. Any moms have fun tricks for keeping fun learning going on in the summer? We've been doing alphabet at the table and different things like that. I guess I just need to motivate myself to motivate them :)

Ok friends, now that you know all my internal struggles, I hope you have a great week :) 

Happy Independence Day!

Happy Independence Day from one of the original 13 colonies! I have had the privelege of growing up in Delaware, rich in United States history, both good and bad! If you're not careful you can walk past places with lots of stories to tell, but have no idea that they were important in our nations history. A place I love to photograph is historic New Castle in Delaware, along the Delaware River. Huge efforts have been made to maintain this area as a historic site. It helps that I am a history nerd along with a photographer! 

I love the ending of the Declaration of Independence, 

"We, therefore, the Representatives of the united States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States; that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."

Do you know what kind of courage and bravery had to accompany these words? I admire the founding fathers and today is a day to remember them. Thankful for the story of this country and a little sad at where it stands today. "Hope springs eternal" though and I believe we can get some things back on track here in the US of A! Happy 4th my friends!

Monday Confessions - Kisses and Disses

A blogger I love does weekly installments of "Kisses and Disses" to just share what she's loving and not-so-loving at the moment! I thought that would be a good theme for today's confesssions!

First the Disses...things that I am NOT loving right now!

1. House flies...seriously we are being bombarded! I can keep on killing flies (yes I am a heartless fly killer!) and yet I still find more!

2. Cantalope....I TRY so hard to like it but I just don't! I even ate some at lunch because it was at it's peak sweetness and everything. Still don't love it...

3. Laundry...it's never ending. Even if I wash it, dry it and fold it...it never gets put away.

4. The Scale...my forever nemesis that I try to fight off. I try not to let the scale dictate feelings or self worth but this week it has me down. I am up about 5 lbs from where I want to be. It could be a myriad of things but the scale can make me feel bad about myself even when it shouldn't. I will do better to not give it the power!

5. Growing Pains...I love that my kids are growing and changing but it can be hard to keep up! This is the sight in my back yard right now... (As always my phone pics upload sideways no matter the alterations I try..forgive, you get the idea) This is a sad, too-small, half-inflated pool that we need to discard but the kids wanted to play in water so badly today! At least they had cool water shooters from their birthday!

Now for the Kisses....things I AM LOVING!

1. Kind words from a client...It really never does cease to go a long way when a client is pleased with my work and they're enjoying it. I don't mean it in an approval sense, but that they are truly being blessed by the memories I captured. A client sharing kind words on the impact of my work helps to remind me to keep going when I am tempted to slow down or stop...it gives me drive. I have the most wonderful clients and have recently been much encouraged!

2. Beanitos chips...yes I am talking about chips made from beans. They're delish and I am craving some right now but have none :( 

3. Giving back...I was also recharged this week by being able to use photography to give back. I can't share lots of details and I fear I am also not as humble as I should be in this so I will leave it vague...just thankful for an opportunity to help with photography! It again reminds me of the powerful tool photography can be to change lives for the better!

4. My first 5 years of motherhood in the bag! I cannot believe the twins turned 5 yesterday! We had a great day of celebrating them (and secretly my husband and I were patting ourselves on the back for surviving this far!) We had another HUGE answered prayer happen last week the sale of our former home so we were also celebrating that a bit too :) 

5. Mango Water Ice...if you don't know what this is..run, don't walk to your nearest Rita's water ice and get you some! It's the BEST summer treat in my opinion and I am craving some! But remember what I said about the scale....

6. Food Network...I ADORE all things food network. Here inlies my struggle, I am just as much closet food network freak as I am fitness afficianado! My goal in life right now is to learn how to make great tasting and healthy foods! Dear Pioneer Woman, please adopt me and let me come cook on your ranch :) What's for dinner at your house today friends?!

Hope you all have a great week friends!! 

One Week New ~ Newborn Session

I adore the opportunity to photograph families over and over again. I was so excited when Liz called to say her little one was on the way and she wanted to do a newborn and family session when he arrived! I was able to photograph her maternity and sweet Adelyn a couple years back. Fast forward to earlier this week when their newest addition, Myles, turned one week old!

We started with sweet, adorable big sister first!!

Love the idea of the baseball for a size comparison!
Myles and Mommy...

 

One week new ~ Newborn Session

It's always an absolute honor when a former bride and groom call me to do their newborn photos! I consider it such a privelege to get to photograph the different stages of life for friends. We did the session on baby's one week birthday to always be able to remember him so tiny and sweet! Big brother Gunner, a German Short-haired Pointer, joined us for most of the session! He was great too...

(As I currently am in a naptime stand off with my own three year old, I am SO thankful for his one week portrait that I can remember when he was more sweetness than the sass he's currently now full of!)

Congrats to Erin & Lou on their beautiful baby boy!

Monday Confessions

Hey friends! I just ordered Father's day gifts! Who knew it was sneaking up on us so quickly?! Is it really almost half way through June and half way through our year?! I know I sound like an old mama, but it really feels that way and it's a good time to reflect. Today I am not going to do a tradiotional "confessions" but rather some things I am thankful for. 

1. I am thankful for healthy children! I take this for granted a lot, which I know I shouldn't. I saw "The Fault In Our Stars" this weekend and a lot of that book/movie is emotional, but what really got me was the parents. I can't imagine walking in those shoes....fighting daily to keep your child alive. It's a good perspective check for all of us with healthy kids, to be so so thankful! 

2. I am thankful for a great Bible teaching church, Lifehouse Church. Last Sunday we were so priveleged to celebrate a baptism service where 40 people were baptized, a lot of which were children! It hit home to me that faith comes in all forms and Jesus can capture the hearts of our kids at an early age. There were vast testimonies from all different ages and stages. It was touching to hear how Jesus came into the lives of each person. There's a beautiful video from the event you can view here. VBS is coming next week if you're local and want your kids to check it out! Dean made the promo page :) This kid...

3. I am thankful for health care...say all you want about the crazy going on in government but in lots of countries in the world, access to health care is nonexistant! I am generally very healthy and just need regular check ups but knowing that if something went wrong, I could get anyone in my family immediate medical attention is a blessing we take for granted!

4. I am thankful for a home with running water and climate control. We complain if our AC isn't cold enough...but we forget that elsewhere in the world there are people just praying for a mosquito net to try to fight off the malaria caryying mosquitoes or walking miles just for tainted water. Lets be honest, we think slow internet is a hardship!

5. I am thankful for a sometimes unconventional but great Dad. I always think about him but especially this week it can be hard. I am thankful though for his lasting legacy in me and try to continually share who he was with our kids. (And OF COURSE I am thankful for my mom! With Father's Day this week, Dad's just been on my mind).

6. I am thankful for a hard working, loving husband. I know that my kids and I are SO BLESSED by having Matt as the head of our family. It doesn't mean it's always a fairy tale or easy, but he's such a consistent and steady force of love in our lives. I know this is also something I sometimes take for granted and shouldn't!

7. I am thankful for a good workout! There's nothing like working hard and dripping sweat to take care of your body! It also teaches you a lot about what you're really capable of. You can do A LOT more than you think you can! I am going to go do that shortly....

8. I am thankful for a good cup of coffee. It truly can get a day started right or heal a lot of other ills. (Sort of like the British with their tea, there's not much a good cup of tea can't fix!)

9. I am so thankful for good friends!!! I got a rare mommy night out this last weekend and it was fun to just hang out with friends and chat about life. Sometimes I think good friends in life can rescue you from all sorts of pain and disasters!! You ladies all know who you are...SO GLAD to have you all! 

10. I am thankful to own a business. As much as it can be great, it can also be very daunting at times. I was reminded last week though that to be a woman in America is still a great privilege. I can vote, own a business and pretty much have equal rights with male counterparts. In most parts of the world, a girl can only dream of those types of opportunities. I am honored for those that choose me to capture their most precious memories like new babies or wedding days! I am now booking into next year for weddings so if you're engaged, shoot me an email and lets chat :) emily@emilytroutmanphoto.com

Hopefully today you can stop for a few minutes and consider some things that you are thankful for! Hope you have a wonderful week! 

Monday Confessions

Hello friends! Sorry I have missed the last couple weeks of Monday Confessions! Along with the end of the school year, a busy photography season and life itself, I've been battling a nasty cold for going on three weeks now too! Just trying to keep it all together my friends :) 

1. We survived Max turning 3 last week, although I might not survive his third year! He has turned quite sassy in his third year and I am trying so hard to remember sweet little Max of days gone by :) He wanted a "Woody and Buzz" party so we had a nice family get together over Memorial Day weekend to celebrate our fiesty little 3 year old! 

2. I confess I love Motown. If you don't know this about me, it's OK to laugh. I think I fell in love with it somewhere around the same time I started being able to drive by myself in high school. I would turn on the oldies station and cruise. If you don't believe me...I have Smokey Robinson playing AS I TYPE :) Don't knock it until you try it...chair dancing is sure to ensue!

3. I also confess that I am still a little in denial that this past week marked 10 years from my college graduation! Ahem...I don't believe that either! Matt and I were on a date night in my college town a few weekends back, which made me a little nostalgic for days gone by. Although I do envy the freedom of college students and the sense that "all of life is still before me," I know that the days I am in now raising a young family is where I am supposed to be! 

4. I just finished reading  From Black Heels to Tractor Wheels by  Ree Drummond, also known at the Pioneer Woman. It was a great memior of her story of falling in love with the "Marlboro Man." If you watch her Food Network show or read her blog at all, you know she has a great sense of humor and fun writing style. I laughed through it a lot but also was touched by the sentiment of a lot of it. The book even includes a few recipes I want to try! It's definitely a read I recommend!

5. Last Friday I had my first time ever going strawberry picking. It was a nice day and I had the genius enough plan to let the kids do the picking (they're lower to the ground anyway right?!) It was fun picking and fairly uneventful until I went to drive my minivan out of a muddy field...a 2WD van was no match for the mud. Thank goodness for a kind hearted farmer and his John Deere to drag us out of the mud! After all the excitement, I was excited to try a few new things with our strawberry crop. I made strawberry freezer jam and a yummy strawberry pie. 

(sorry for sideways photos, after MULTIPLE attempts to correct this issue..it ain't happening and this blog post is already taking forever :) 

Hope you all have a great week ahead! 

Southport, NC Wedding

When Danny and Nikki won my "Love is in the air" contest a couple years back, I had no idea all the fun we would eventually have together! They had such a great engagement shoot that we knew we were all a good fit for their wedding day. Their story is so sweet and much more true to life than others. They dated and then broke up. As the seasons changed and they saw other people, they were eventually led back together! They dreamed of a wedding in Southport, NC, the hometown of Nikki's parents and the epitome of Southern beauty and hospitality! I absolutely fell in love with this town! It was the perfect setting for Nikki and Danny to say "I do." There were a lot of moments at this wedding that I was reminded of why I do what I do in capturing memories through the camera! 

(If you've seen the movie Safe Haven based on the Nicholas Sparks novel, this was the setting for the movie back in 2009! I admit I watched it again when we got back from our trip so I could see all the places in town in the movie.) 

This is a bit of a long post..enjoy!

The flower girl trying on the bride's shoes...

Grandma pinned in some Carolina blue for that "something blue"...

 

A special dance with the bride's grandfather...

Spring Engagement Shoot

       I love when I meet with clients for the first time and we just know we will work well together. This has definitely been the case with Mike and Jes, who are planning a fall wedding! We went back and forth about the engagement session, pretty much me trying to convince Mike that it wouldn't be painful! I think the best thing that happens after an engagement session for me is when the future groom says, "that really wasn't so bad!" The whole idea behind the engagement session is to both capture this beautiful season of life, while also giving just a bit of practice and reassurance for the wedding day! 

   We had a beautiful shoot in the spring blooms in Historic New Castle, which even included their fur babies, Alden and Wesley! I am very much looking forward to capturing their wedding later this year! Enjoy...

Monday Confessions

Hello inter-web friends! It's a crazy Monday as ever but the sun is shining! Why is it I always yearn for things to "slow down" but really I think I just feed off the crazy! We have perfect weather here today so I took kiddos swimming...yes swimming because my in-laws pool is already open and even a little warm! Here's to it almost being summer! I have a few things to confess today...

1. I truly CANNOT believe this is the twins last week of preschool ever! They have preschool graduation on Wednesday, prepping the tissue box now! 

2. Mother's day was lovely. It certainly started nicely with the sun shining and our family heading to church. We were also able to spend a nice lunch out with family and some relax time later in the day. My family was so very sweet to me and I appreciated it!

3. Speaking of Mother's day....if you have not heard of the movie that just opened, Mom's Night Out, you need to get out to see it! It was both hilarios and encouraging. Who knew Trace Adkins could act so well?! He was one of my favorite! 

4. I was in line a couple weeks ago behind a lady in Kohls who had a HUGE purchase. She had a cart full of kids clothing, shoes, etc. I totally get it, new season and kids grow! I have to say though when she got to her total, I had to speak up because I had a coupon on my phone for 15% off your purchase. I let her use it because I guess I can't even let other people spend their own money like crazy?! I saved that lady $65 off her purchase! Always check for coupons my friends before you walk into ANY store!

5. We got to go to Sesame Street Live last Friday too and the kiddos loved it! I definitely recommend it for their age group. I did have one struggle with the kids though, constant begging for things. Anyone else deal with this? As I heard my own advice coming out my mouth, I thought I might try to heed my own words. "When you are continually looking at things you don't have and wishing you had them, you miss all the things in front of you that you do have. You forget to be thankful for what you have!" Guess I will work on taking my own advice!

6. I am going to kick off my first challenge group with Beach Body very soon! If you are interested for a 30 days challenge with accountability and support, drop me an email! emily@emilytroutmanphoto.com I am excited to help you reach your fitness and/or weight loss goals. 

I have to run, many more things calling for my attention today! Hope you have a great week friends!

Southport Wedding Sneak Peek!

As a little girl she loved this tree…it was always a vision of hers to have bridal portraits under this tree in Southport, NC and last weekend her dream came true! Working on these beautiful images! 

Monday Confessions

SO this morning I was one of those people that I thought I might never be, I was at a fitness studio by 5:30am for a circuit workout. It was great to get my body up and moving! I was back to my house before anyone else was even up and I know I burned a few hundred calories.  I have to say though, I might be ready for a nap by lunchtime! It is REALLY nice though that my workout is already done and I can go about my day. So here goes confessions...

1. Last week I cooked my first ever ham. Some of you might be laughing but for real, I did and it was delish. My whole family even ate it up! The only casualty was a burn on my hand. Last week's house chores were tough on my hands! I got a cut last Monday putting laundry away too...

2. Have I ever told you friends I am Delaware native? Born here and never left! I know, crazy right?

3. I confess... I watched Tori Spelling's new documentary style reality show, True Tori,  which is capturing her dealing with her husband's infidelity. I have to be honest, there's so many things about her life I disagree with but I am very drawn to her as a person in her books/reality show. I have to say though, the show was very sad to me. It's hard to watch a mom of 4 littles going through that...especially her every move being chased by paparazzi. I don't know if I will keep up with the show but it was interesting to watch it all from her perspective. 

4. I finished up another book, Orphan Train by Christina Baker Klein. I really liked it, mostly I think because it is a fascinating part of history I knew nothing about. A lot of the tale is actually heart breaking but there was some redepmtion in the end.The orphan trains operated between 1853 and 1929, relocating about 250,000 orphaned, abandoned, or homeless children, taking them from Eastern cities to the Midwest. Unfortunately a lot of these kids found what was more like indentured servitude within the homes they were adopted to. Definitely give this one a read! 

5. Want to know my favorite summer Starbucks drink? It's a black tea lemonade. Yum! I do like it sweetened so I tried with agave instead of sugar...not too shabby!

6. We are doing A LOT better with potty training, thank goodness. We are still having trouble convincing little man to do # 2's on the potty but # 1's are all good! No accidents with those for at least 3 or 4 days!

7. I had a great engagment shoot this past weekend that I will share on here soon, but what I want to chat about happened after that.  I was down on the river in a historic district in Delaware and I saw a gorgeous older couple with a classic car. I saw them chatting when he leaned in and kissed her on the forehead. I was smitten with them, I had to speak up and offer some photographs. Totally harsh light, tons of people around and nothing ideal, but I have a feeling their grand kids will cherish these! I enjoyed my few moments with these sweet people, hearing their story. I guess my point for sharing is don't be afraid to interact with people, sometimes it's worth it! 

I hope you all have a great week ahead! I have some travel ahead this week so I don't know if I will get to other posting but I do have some photography I would love to get to share soon! :) 

Monday Confessions

   Can I get an Amen for today's weather? Even the crazy wind isn't bothering me so much because it's fairly sunny and warm! After a LONG winter here in Delaware, the sun and warmth feels like therapy! We had GREAT weather for Saturday's mini sessions too, which I couldn't be more happy with! 

1. We had a nice slow Sunday yesterday after church, which rarely happens. I think though that when I actually slow down the pace a little, it shows me how much MORE I need to slow down the pace and keep priorities straight. I learned a long time ago you can say "yes" to lots of good things and still be missing the "best" things. I am trying so hard to protect our sanity and schedule but even with that focus, the next few weeks is insane! I confess though that I really do need to slow down a bit more. I am ready for the change of pace that summer brings! 

2. I confess that teachers want out of school just a much as students! Only a few more weeks of the semester with my photo class, which I very much enjoy! Every semester there are suprises and dissapointments but I am always reminded how much I love teaching!

3. I finished a really good book yesterday, The Little Way of Ruthie Leming, by Rod Dherer. It is a non-fiction memior style book written about the author's life, most of it being focused on his sister and her battle through cancer. I actually knew nothing about the book when I put in for a hold at the library but I kept hearing it recommended. I can really see why people like this book, it was an easy read and I enjoyed it. It made me very contemplative though and even inspired last night's dinner menu when I made jambalya and sweet tea! I have spent some time on a few different trips to Louisiana and it reminded me of my time there. Small town Lousiana is most of the setting for this story. It really made me think on relationships and life and all those things you don't like to think about when racing through the speed of life. If you're in the mood for a thoughtful read that will require a few tissues along the way, this is a good one!

4. I did my first p90x3 workout today! I just finished up Beta round of T25 and am ready for something new leading up to summer! It's definitely different than other things I have done. I realized I am not half the beast I like to think I am...a pull up bar can humble you quick! I am ready to try something new though and see how all the strength moves change my body! 

5. It has been quite a while since I have sat down to take a vocabulary quiz but there have been a few new words crossing my path lately and I am going to attempt to work them into conversations :) I am not going to lie, I learned one in church and one from reality tv! You can guess which is which!

en·mi·ty  noun

1. the state or feeling of being actively opposed or hostile to someone or something.

taw·dry  adjective

1. showy but cheap and of poor quality.

   We had an adventure to the local orchard this morning to run around and soak in some sunshine. Luck smiled on us though because it wasn't supposed to be open to the public today (depsite their very confusing website) but thanks to a private party we were still able to go in for a few hours!

   This morning because all the kids were home and it was a beautiful day, we headed to the local orchard to run and enjoy the fresh air! It was little cloudy and windy but that didn't stop our fun. The kids got to play on all the playgrounds and do the petting zoo...there was even an appearance of the Easter bunny!

   

   Have a great week friends! 

Monday Confessions

  Hello friends, I have had a crazy Monday with the kids. We went to the Y with my mom this morning in her town in Maryland. Unfortunately after a short time swimming in the indoor pool, an elderly man had a collapse and we were all evacuated out. I have been thinking over a lot of things this morning like the brevity of life, how people respond in an emergency, and even trying to teach my children the well being of others is more important than our preferences. The kids didn't quite understand why their swimming adventure was cut so short although they witnessed the collapse of the man. When a team was gathered around the man working, I led a prayer with my kids. It's not necessarily miraculous on our part, but it recognizes WHO is in the business of the miraculous! These are certainly teachable moments...

So after the events of this morning, and probably the weather, I am in somber mood. It seems silly to share my trivial confessions. As we lead up to Easter though, I've been trying to have consistent devotions. This morning reminded me that the Cross was the entire purpose of Christ. 

"The heart of salvation is the cross of christ. The reason salvation is so easy to obtain is that it cost God so much. The cross was the place where god and sinful man merged with tremendous collision and where the way to life was opened. But all the cost and pain of the collision was absorbed by the heart of God" ~Oswald Chambers 

Hope you all have a wonderful week and check back next week for more confessions and hopefully some mini session photography!

Friday Engagement!

We have made it through another week my friends and I am excited to share some of this engagement session with you! Ashley and Adam are getting married later this year at Rockwood Carriage House and I couldn't be more excited to photograph their engagement and wedding! They are such a sweet couple that bonded over thier love of Jesus, music, and good coffee among other things. The rain held off and we had a lovely time shooting in historic Dover, Delaware. Enjoy friends!

Won't she make a gorgeous bride?!

Monday Confessions & Spring Mini Sessions are here!

Booking now for limited spots on April 12th in Historic Odessa for Spring mini sessions! Planning on shooting in the beautiful spring gardens in bloom! Email me today, emily@emilytroutmanphoto.com, spots are very limited!

As for this Monday, another week is upon us!

1. Monday weigh in after two full weeks of clean eating and T25 consistently... down 4 lbs and trying to stay strong! 

2. I have to confess that a yummy organic white peach tea with honey has been saving me on those afternoon desires to snack! Snacks are allowed, just not empty calorie snacks. Have I gone off the deep end you ask? Not at all, just trying to get shaped up and ready for shorts and tank top season! (Lets NOT EVEN TALK about the forecast for snow tomorrow!)

3. We had a visit to the dentist this morning for the twins! All is well thankfully with their teeth. Is it too early to pray not to need braces?! He's a comendian even in the dentist chair :) 

4. Yes I confess that I did go for free Rita's water ice last Thursday with the kids! I got the sugar free mango (it's made with Splenda which isn't "clean" but it was still way better on the calorie side of things and I don't want to miss out on fun in life!

5. Who's a zombie watcher?! So can't believe it's the season finale of the Walking Dead next week! We will be tortured I am sure with some sort of major cliff hanger until the fall season! I have to say that I am definitely not a zombie lover but got sucked into the characters and the whole idea of surviving in some kind of apocalypse!

Here's to a wonderful week and let me know if you want in on one of those mini sessions!