A Little Perspective

It's the same old situation, isn't it? We often complain, work too hard, lose our patience, and take ourselves too seriously. Once in a while, just do something goofy in front of the mirror that may or may not require a clown nose.

Sarah & Kevin

Meet Sarah and Kevin, planning to exchange vows in the 808 (yeah, Hawaii!) next February. I've known Sarah since she was in high school -- one of the coolest, most loving chicks I've ever met. We headed down to Lake Union for our session and couldn't have asked for a better day. They wanted something a little different, more urban, and here's what we got.

Check out those legs (and heels)...

They have a beautiful baby boy... yes, people, SHE had a BABY. Nine months ago. I don't know whether to drool over her amazing bod or his adorable face. He has his mommy's dimples!

And let's not forget Kev, a complete natural in front of the camera. I loved his smile and laid-back attitude.

Thanks to you all for rocking it like superstars. Much love to the three of you!

Seven

Seven years ago, we officially became parents -- we lost sleep, turned into full-time worry warts, and prepared for something you can't possibly be prepared for. All of the things other parents said were true. We fell in love indescribably. We cried and laughed harder than before. We wondered who he would be. Seven years from now, we’ll wish the first seven took more of their sweet time. Happy birthday to our little man Kai.

Coming soon, a fun engagement session with some pretty adorable people.

Beautiful Greyson

The smell and softness of a newborn is enough to make a grown man weak, and this little one was no exception. I couldn't even bear to use my sharpening tool on this guy -- his skin was that smooth and perfect. I was in baby love... I can only imagine how his parents must feel.

I wondered if he could sense I was there and got a little camera shy.

The waking-up process was fun to capture, as much as his mama and I tried to keep him in Dreamville.

And there was no going back!

His eyes were like marbles and so focused for being two weeks old.

Greyson, you are seriously too cute for your own good. Thank you for reminding me about the miracle of life -- and how quickly time can pass. I'm so grateful I got to stop it for just a moment. For you and your family.

From Hong Kong To Shanghai

My family and I just got back from a trip to China where we visit my parents every year. I spent eight years growing up in Hong Kong, and in many ways, it still feels like home. Now, before you think I'm crossing over into fashion photography, there was this stunning model standing in the middle of the street. Helloo. Wouldn't you whip out your camera, too?

A bit of local street fare and my personal favorites (sorry if the first one makes you gag) -- fishballs drenched in curry sauce, and fresh sugar cane that can either be munched on or made into juice. Mmm.

A typical Chinese delicatessen:

I naturally had to snap one of the kids posing under a gigantic Buzz Lightyear.

Moving on to Shanghai, one of China's largest, most Westernized cities. Population: 20 million. It has one of the most booming economies in the Far East according to my dad.

While the trip is usually one big food and shopping fest for us, the main reason for our visit to Shanghai was to see Expo. I remember going to Expo in Vancouver, BC more than 20 years ago. It was such a cool experience. Here inside the Chinese Pavilion, many of the local children displayed their artwork. I don't ever remember painting or drawing like this! I love the effort and attention to detail:

Inside the Taiwan Pavilion, a beautiful "guanyin" -- meaning "goddess," only this one's in male form:

We were pretty lucky to be able to see the Italy and Germany pavilions as well. Masses of people stood in line for hours in the heat to get into some exhibits. A couple of abstract photos for fun...

Leaving Expo...

We had an awesome time and plan to check out Beijing and the Great Wall one of these days, maybe when the kids are older. I need to give a special shout-out to my husband who spends almost all of his vacation time making these trips possible. Until next year, China... zai jian!