Monday Confessions, Thanksgiving Style

        If you are in the United States this week, you can't miss that it's Thanksgiving. I have been seeing and hearing posts all over about things to be thankful for or ways to have gratitude. I think that this is a beautiful thing in a world where we take so much for granted, to stop and think about what things we have gratitude for. I have a few things right now that I am praying through and when I am not careful, I can get anxious. I forget all the ways that God has already been so faithful! I also forget that he tells us not to be anxious, but to be prayerful and grateful!

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4: 6 -7. 

So the directive here is not to turn to anxiety or worry, but to pray. We are to not just pray with a pleading heart, but also pray with a THANKFUL heart. When we obediently do these things, even in challenging times, we will then experience that peace of Christ that Paul writes about in his letter to the Philippians. I am trying to be obedient in these commands today, will you join me? Join me in praying through those difficult things and waiting for God to make himself evident! Here's to a wonderful Thanksgiving! 

Monday Confessions, Rainy day version

    Do you ever wake up on Monday morning with an overwhelmed feeling from all the responsibilities that lay ahead for you? I had this very experience this morning. Before 7:30 am I had dressed and fed children, the dog, cleaned up random messes, packed lunches, straightened collars, folded two loads of laundry, and all while walking around in a fog of dread. What am I dreading? I had to just sit down and ask myself this question. 

    I know that just waking up each morning is a blessed gift, so what is my problem? I think my problem is that I feel like I will never truly be "on top of things" like I want. I wake up thinking through family demands, business needs for my two different businesses, along with all the weight of bigger things we are praying through. I have seen God's faithfulness so clearly in some situations lately, so why do I still wake up thinking it's all up to me? 

   I sat down with my new reading plan from the She Reads Truth app and it of course, was exactly what I needed. The Bible reading for today was Psalm 105: 1- 45, which in summary is a story of God's people being a hot mess and Him being faithful through it all. The other reading for the day is 1 Thess 5: 16 - 18, "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." These verses fell fresh on me today and reading the devotional portion really challenged me. "His will is not as much as a path as it is a way of walking. Paul says as much [in these verses] in his letter to Thessalonica, when he reduces all our agonizing life questions to a non-formula... No hoops to jump through. No tests to pass. No situational tidiness required" (Amanda Williams). 

   So as I make the to-do list for today or ponder the bigger things of life that threaten to overwhelm me or tell a 3 year old why he can't eat cheez-it's for breakfast....I am going to try to keep perspective. I am praying I can remember today that God hasn't left me, I am enough and I might never be fully "on top of things." It's ok not to have it all perfect!  Hope you have a good start to your week!  

Now here's some sunshine for you from fall mini sessions!

Senior Session

       I remember the time of being a senior in high school as a season of possibility! It's a time when most of life still lies ahead of you and all the possibilities are very exciting. While I was working on these images I did find myself saying, "oh to be seventeen again!" I had the privilege this week of photographing a lovely senior girl who I know it going places! We chatted about everything from the colleges she's looking at to the kids she babysits. I know she has a wonderful, bright future ahead and I was honored to photograph her! All the best to you Kierstin!

Fall Engagement Session!

     In lieu of monday confessions today, I want to share with you an engagement session close to my heart. This is Ashley, she is Matt's little sister and in turn, is like my little sister. You see, long before Matt and I were ever together, I got to know Ashley as a middle schooler in my Sunday School group at the time. She was shy but always laughed at my jokes, so I knew she was listening :) I even have a sweet ornament she gave me one year that I still hang on my tree as a reminder to me of all that God had planned before I ever even knew what he was up to! I am so thankful I got a sister in her!

    As I write this, I have a lump in my throat of happiness for all that lies ahead for Ashley and Kenny as they lead into their wedding next summer. I was honored when they asked me to do some engagement photos for them because knowing I am a part of their wedding party, I won't be able to do the wedding day photos! It is my prayer for them that this time of engagement and preparation for marriage is a sweet time. I pray that they build a foundation of a strong marriage and don't just plan a wedding. I pray that Jesus would draw them close and protect their hearts as they prepare to become man and wife. Ashley and Kenny, I couldn't be happier for you and enjoy these images as a reminder of a special time in your lives! Love you! (And of course the photographer in me couldn't get enough of the golden light and beautiful autumn scenery :) 

This was the last shot I took and I think it's a perfect ending…

Monday Confessions

Happy Monday friends! It's beginning of a new week, which means it's a fresh start if you need one! Here's what I have to confess today…

1) Never miss a Monday workout! Want to come join the fun at SDF in Middletown for a free class today?! There's a 4:30pm PiYo (which I will be trying to attend) or a 7:30pm PiYo which will also be great! Wear PINK in support of Breast Cancer awareness! 

2) Have you ever wanted to give a little more at Christmas? Well we kicked off Operation Christmas Child at our church yesterday and we are so excited! The idea is to fill a shoebox full of Christmas gifts and send them all over the world sharing Christmas joy and the truth about Jesus. The kids have been big helpers this year for me! If you're local and want to participate, all are welcome! You don't have to go to our church, just have a love for kids all over the world :) 

3) I also got to see Costumes Of Downton Abbey exhibit at Winterthur gardens and museum. It was a fabulous exhibit although a bit crowded. I have never seen Winterthur so packed! 

Lady Edith's beautiful wedding gown… A neat fact is that they let real vintage items from the correct era be inspirations for the outfits on Downton. In this beautiful dress, the embroidery on the train is authentic from the era and they built the dress around it. 

These outfits from the engagement scene were one of my favorites because they had the video playing of the engagement and they had it look like it was snowing! Perfection! I honestly think I would've only enjoyed it more if it weren't so crowded but a fabulous exhibit nonetheless. If you are anywhere near Delaware, go see it before it leaves in January!

3) Speaking of outfits, I want to share another "fall favorite" in my wardrobe. I got these fabulous TOMS wedges last year for Christmas and they're perfect for this season! So comfortable too! 

4. Eagles lost, no free coffee today. Tear…it's Ok though, I already had two cups so 3 would be absurd!

5. It's Halloween week, what are you all doing that's fun?!

Have a fabulous week my friends!!!!

Judge Morris Estate Wedding

 A few weekends ago I had the pleasure of photographing Jes & Mike's wedding day. The day started off pouring rain so we all held out hope for the rain to clear and thankfully it did! It stayed a little gray and chilly, but nothing could put a damper on this couple's day! I adored all the touches of fall Jes added to the wedding. As always, it was an emotional but beautiful day! Congrats to Jes & Mike! Enjoy the photos!

Jes's dad is putting on her grandmothers pearls for her wedding day….just beautiful

Emotion can be so beautiful….

Isn't she beautiful?!

Monday Confessions

Hey friends, sorry I missed last week with the holiday and kids home! We were busy running to dentist appointments and going to the orchard in the rain :) Here are the things on my mind today….

1.  I love that working from home allows me to wear yoga pants while cranking out work. I don't think however that it's professional attire outside of the house (unless I started instructing yoga!) I got into a discussion yesterday with other photographers about what is appropriate to wear to a shoot. I was a little taken aback when I saw a photographer out working while wearing a hoodie, yoga pants, top knot and rolled down Uggs. I felt like that is my Sunday afternoon at home wear, not out to work a session. What are your thoughts as clients? 

2. Speaking of yoga pants, I thank my lucky stars that I don't have to get out of the car in the car drop off line at the kids school. Sometimes I pray before I leave the house not to have an accident because the outfit I am wearing is too hideous for public viewing (think workout capris with my slippers this morning) :) 

3. If you don't already know, my husband is a very talented graphic designer. He just recently launched his new website. Hop on over and check it out! If you need a business card, t-shirt or website, please contact him! He would love to work with you. 

4. So I made some brownies last night that got a thumbs down from my family. In my constant attempts to "health-i-fy" everything, it's not always a winner. I saw a post that said you can use a box of brownie mix  and a can of pumpkin to make a batch of brownies (no eggs or oils needed). Well I would like to argue that eggs and oils are needed for a brownie mix! It was right consistency but just not the same flavor. Sorry family, I am trying!!

5. Can we talk about what a shock to the system  it was this morning when it was 40 degrees when I took kids to school?! I feel like even after a workout and a shower I am still trying to get warm! Thank goodness for heat! 

6. I confess that we watch Walking Dead on AMC. Are you in on the zombie craze?! I just have to say though that the show is so increasingly brutal and disturbing that I might have to go back to Sunday night hiding in my room watching Downton re-runs while the hubby watches zombies! 

7. I confess that I love Motown. I have a total place in my heart for the oldies and I will definitely do an occasional sing along while I am editing videos to my motown station! You should totally try it! 

8. Eagles didn't play so no free coffee today :( Next Sunday though, I will be rooting for them!

9. I am reading "The Best Yes" by Lysa TerKeurst and it's so rich in content that I have to digest it in bits. I am totally guilty of saying yes to things even when I don't consider the cost. Just yesterday at church I said yes to something because no one else would, and it bothered me the rest of the evening because I know the cost it will have. It's honestly not even a huge thing, but just another commitment on an already full plate. I picked up this book last night and read, " Every yes answer comes with a list of expectations. If I don't know what those expectations are, I can't possibly meet them" (page 116). Lysa goes on to write about questions to ask yourself to determine if you can truly commit to this particular thing at this time. It's so, so helpful if you are trying to learn to work through priorities when committing to things! It's easy to just say "yes" and live a crazy life with a full schedule but no idea what you're doing or who you're impacting! 

I hope you all have a wonderful week! Until next Monday…

Fall Mini Sessions, Part 3

    I adore this family and have been able to photograph them annually for years now, which I love! It's fun to watch kids grow and change in front of my camera. It's also fun to see their little lives remembered through my lens. I don't think I am spoiling their Christmas card but couldn't wait to share these :) How cute are they all?!
 

Aren't they adorable?!

Fall Mini Sessions, Part 2

    Look at this sweet family! You would never know they had been battling illness all week with all the smiles and fun we had. I love getting to incorporate special elements in a family's portrait. Both the story they were reading and the quilt they were on held significance for the family. I am so glad I got to capture them! 

For real, how do you tell her no?!!

Fall Mini Sessions, Part 1

    I was so thankful when the clouds rolled back and the sun came out in time for last Saturday's mini sessions! One thing I adore about this job is being able to connect with people and capture different stages in their life. Nikki is both an old friend from high school days and a friend within the wedding industry (check out Lovely Girls if you're engaged or soon to be!). I was so excited to be able to capture her love with John and this fun time of being expectant new parents! 

Monday Confessions

       I confess, that some days as a work at home mom (WAHM), I can dread it. I can think about all the ways it's tough, but then I am brought right back into the reality of what a blessing it is. Today has been one of those Mondays that I have been reminded multiple times already what a gift it is to be able to work from home. (If you're new to Monday Confessions posts, it's just where I share a little part of myself and my life by "confessing" what's going on with me!) 

1.  I confess that I already went for my free Dunkin coffee from the Eagles win! We live fairly close to a Dunkin, so Max and I took a walk to get my coffee. Yum!

2. I confess that I gave into my 3 year old begging to walk also to the pet supply store because he loves to visit the animals. They have guinea pigs and usually some kittens that are up for adoption. This is fine with me because I am not tempted to ever take home either a kitten or a guinea pig and it makes little man happy! I figure that kitties waiting for adoption don't mind a little love from a 3 yr old :)

3. I did get in a 21 Day Fix workout before our coffee walk! I did the total body cardio fix and was dripping sweat. I love the 30 minute effective workouts and Max even joined me for this stretching. 

4. Yesterday we had the pleasure of going to with my sister in law to pick up her wedding dress! She's not getting married until next summer but they originally told her it would take super long to make. Macy loved going so much and had to try on a few dresses of her own! I had a flash forward of about 20 years! She's so excited to be a part of the wedding :) 

5. I had a great Saturday full of mini sessions and a wedding this upcoming weekend so I will be holding myself to try to get some photography blogged as well! For those that are clients, I am so thankful for you! I love the fall season for all it's beauty and photography opportunities! 

Have a great week everyone! 

Monday Confessions

Hey friends, happy Monday! Well the Eagles did not win so I guess I won't be getting that free cup of Dunkin' coffee, or so I thought! I've never been so concerned for football outcomes in my life…now you know that coffee is the true captor of my heart and not football :) The good news is that it's National coffee day so they're giving away free medium cups of their new dark roast anyway! Go have a cup on me :) This is a nonsense holiday I can celebrate happily!

Here's whats on my mind this week…

1. I confess that I am WAY late to the party but I just got hooked on watching The Voice! Who is with me on this? I already knew Blake Shelton was adorable and now I am starting to see what all the fuss about Adam Levine is. I have to say that I adore Gwen Stefani and Pharell also. I think the reason I never got into it in the past was the Christina Alguilera factor, just couldn't watch her. I am so excited to watch tonight as the blind auditions continue!

2. Speaking of fall TV….who is ready for Zombies?! We are inside of two weeks for The Walking Dead to return on AMC. Who remembers where the gang left off? I get freaked out just thinking about it!

3. In other pop culture news, Gone Girl the movie comes out this Friday with Rosamund Pike and Ben Affleck. I really have not covered up the fact that I did not like the book but I definitely wonder how they will pull it off as a movie! Rosamund Pike played Jane Bennett in Pride and Prejudice, which is pretty much the sweetest character there is so I have a hard time imaging her as the vengeful character in Gone Girl. So the question is friends, are you going to see it? Let me know what you think!

4. I am getting a hair cut this week and I cannot wait. I can't decide if I want to do something different or stick to the longer hair I've been rocking for a little bit…decisions, decisions. It's hard to commit to new hair, but the same old thing can get boring too!

5. I am dreaming of baking pumpkin chocolate chip muffins one day this week. My favorite recipe for them is here. I usually cut the oil and sugar a bit though. The pumpkin helps keep the moisture like the oil would. Yum! What's your fave fall treat to bake? I am working on "healthi-fying" things when I can! (that's a new word, when you have your own blog you can make up words if you want!)

6. I confess, I found an awesome pair of gray jeans at Forever 21 (Yes, I know I am over 30) for less than $10 that I LOVE!! I might investigate if they are in other colors. I want to see how they hold up to their first washing and see if they still fit right. Sometimes cheap things aren't bargains if they don't last or fall apart, but I do love going cheaper on a trend item.  I think these jeans will be a solid part of my wardrobe this fall. 

7. Speaking of wardrobe, have you heard of such a thing as a "capsule wardrobe?" It's this idea that you really only wear so many different items at once. Here's an explanation "For Unfancy purposes, it’s a 37 piece wardrobe that includes tops, bottoms, dresses, outerwear, and shoes. Why is it so great? Ever buy some fun new clothes, but end up wearing your old favorites anyway? Me too. Ever go to your closet and feel like you have nothing to wear, even when your closet is filled with clothes?" This explanation is from Caroline on the UnFancy blog. I am intrigued by this idea because I think we tend to think, "more is more" in the wardrobe world, but don't tend to wear it all. I weed through the excess in my closet only to wear tried and true faves. Anyone else read up on this idea or what do you think about it?

This is my other fave purchase for the fall wardrobe…a mustard colored cardigan from Target!

8. Are you looking for that healthy alternative to the Pumpkin Spice Latte in the fall craziness? My pal Somer shared this last fall and I got hooked, you order a blonde roast with just one pump of the pumpkin spice flavor syrup and you end up saving both $$ as well as calories! You can add in a little fat free milk and stevia if you want some creaminess and sweetness. 

9. Have you ever heard of pound cake from Stock's Bakery in Philly? Our sweet neighbors are from Philly and occasionally bring us a pound cake when they are passing through. I saw a friend post about this bakery this week and I have been dreaming of their pound cake ever since! Maybe our neighbors will go visit their family soon… yes, it even comes with vanilla frosting!

Ok friends, I realize that this week wasn't as deep with my chat about tv, wardrobes, and food but I know the last couple weeks I have really been putting myself out there. I am just like any other girl with all different sides to me that I want to share with you inter web friends! I hope that my deep posts affect you on a more personal level and the rest of my confessions just share a little bit of me with you! 

I will leave you with a verse I found great encouragement in the last couple weeks, "Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer." Romans 12: 12

Have a great week!

Monday Confessions, Out of Survival Mode

    SO last week I had the big confession, that I really can't do it all well! That confession has both challenged and taunted me over the last week. There were moments when I wanted to say "Yes" to more new things but I was challenged to wait. There were other moments I took in a deep breath and was glad to know my limitations. I have a feeling this is a continuum that I will remain on for a while. In certain seasons of life, we can be more limited than other seasons. With that being said, I am in a new season. 

    Any moms of little people know that the season with babies in your house is most often a one of sheer survival. If you have multiples like I do, it can feel even more that way. In this new season of kindergarten for the twins, I am learning a few things about myself. I was in survival mode for so long, it's strange to start finding spare moments here or there where it's ok just to sip my coffee and talk to my 3 year old. Don't get me wrong, having my 3 year old still here is still work, but after never having just one at a time, this is a good time for us. It's a time for me to step back and try to enjoy him before he leaves me for kindergarten too! I think as days, weeks and months pass, I might have more to say about this "out of survival mode" transition I find myself in. I mean lets be honest, I have already worked out, showered, dressed and used a hair dryer all before lunchtime! That definitely wasn't happening two years ago when I had 3 kids three and under in my house!

So for today's confessions….

1. I am still on the 21 Day Fix and going strong. The weekend really tested me and although I wasn't perfect, I did really well and maintained my weight loss. I am down 3 lbs in a week and hoping to see the scale move a little more in the next two weeks as well. I just want to head into holiday season with a good understanding of nutrients and portions while fitting comfortably into my clothes! 

2. Got my free Dunkin coffee this morning! GO EAGLES! (although I am missing my pumpkin spice and my creamer!!) It's so beautiful out here that Max and I actually walked to Dunkin for my coffee, then over to the pet supply store to visit the kitties and guinea pigs. I am trying to savor the moments when these are still the things he wants to do with his mama!

3. Over the weekend a good friend turned 30 so his fabulous wife planned a Limo bus and a night out to Lucky Strikes in Philly! It was the swankiest bowling alley I have ever seen (which might not be saying something?!) We had so much fun but my bowling was horrible. I guess it's one of those things though that you can still enjoy with friends even if you're stinking it up! If you need a fun night out idea in Philly, definitely make a reservation at Lucky Strikes on Chestnut St! Here's the birthday boy with all the ladies! Thanks for a fun night!

4. I am currently reading Little House on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder with the twins in the evenings and it's been really sweet. I think it's funny how things like books can bring us together! There are so many strange ironies though like being able to watch the old pilot episodes of Little House on Youtube! Nothing like the current technology to connect us with the past. It's funny too when they ask brilliant questions like last night with Dean, it dawned on him when the whole house was put together and he says, "Where do they go to the bathroom?" I am glad my boy made that observation because it showed he was listening, but then we had to talk about outhouses. Thank goodness for modern plumbing!

5. This weather….is there anything better than sunny and 75?! I confess it's totally my favorite! I am SO looking forward to photo shoots every weekend for the next month! Here's to praying the weather stays like this for a while though! 

Hope you all have a wonderful week my friends!

Monday Confessions, I can't do it all well

     Today is just one big confession, I can't do it all well. I came to this conclusion last night when it hit me around 9pm that we had entirely missed a party we had been invited to that day. The even sadder thing is that this EXACT same thing happened last month too with a good friend's sons birthday. I feel terrible when things like this happen, mostly because it's a glaring reminder that I really can't remember everything or do all things well. To even better prove my mess of a self, last Tuesday I went to an appointment an entire week early (which I also realized tonight looking at the calendar, the office was so polite they didn't even tell me!) Really?!

      A sweet acquaintance and I were chatting a couple weeks ago at a social event and she said, "I really don't know how you do everything you do, I am impressed." I tried to shrink back and say, "Please don't be impressed, if one thing looks good, it means something else is entirely a mess." This is life for most moms, right?! If my house looks clean, our dinner is probably something easy. Or if I slammed out a ton of business one day, the house is most definitely a wreck. It's always a trade off for me, and missing a party that we would've loved to attend is just a reminder to me that I need to step back, slow down, and pay attention.

    This is part of a bigger theme in my life right now. I just finished reading, Hands Free Mama, by Rachel Macy Stafford. The book has so many sections and thoughts that challenged me. Here's her blog description and it definitely sums up a lot of what I have been feeling! 

       Her book challenged me on so many levels. I confirmed that I am a total productivity and device addict. While productivity addiction can serve a purpose while running my own businesses, it can create a disconnect in my family life. I need to learn to push away distraction, let go of perfectionist ideals, slow down and grab onto what really matters. I saw a photo tonight of right before Max was born. I was looking at the faces of two almost 2 year olds in a stroller, struggling to remember. So much of that part of my life is a blur in my memory. I am sure we all feel this to a degree but it's pushing me to live more intentionally now. I don't want to look back and not remember, or be trying to remember so many things on a daily basis, that I forget what is important (like relationships, friends and their parties….to my friends, bear with me while I get it together!) 

      And to any of you that are reading this that are a client of mine, don't be appalled. Just remember I will still capture your memories and attempt to create beautiful albums and galleries in a timely manner. I am letting you peek behind the curtain, so to speak, to let you know that I am human. I am a photographer and entrepreneur, but also a wife and mama. If you are in my Beach Body gang, don't worry….I am so sore from Friday and Saturdays workouts that my body won't let me forget it! 

      I am just figuring out how to make it all work, although I can't do it all perfectly. There might be a day or two that you see me still in workout clothes chasing a toddler. Just know that on that day, I chose my health and my family over my appearance. Or maybe there's a day you see me looking so put together and think "how is she doing it all?" but really just imagine me accidentally sticking my hand in my toddlers poo (like I did this past Friday morning). I am always going to be a hard worker and a "type A" on some levels, but I am a work in progress. I am working on keeping priorities in their place and trying to do better! 

(**If you've read Hands Free Mama, what are your take aways?)

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!