darcy.

Where am I going...

2011-09-08T14:15:00.001-07:00

For some reason I feel blah this week... I have no idea why. It's not even like I am starting my period or anything... which is usually the number one reason for the blues. I just am feeling directionless. I feel like I need to be out there networking more, meeting people, etc. But, I just don't have it in me. It's almost as if I am scared of the failure. If my labor doesn't produce any fruit all my work would be in vain. Where has my passion and zest gone to?

I suppose that is something fleeting, something that comes and goes now and again. Also, if this was easy everyone would be doing it. Even though sometimes it feels like everyone is doing it. The greats never stopped though. They didn't give up and they didn't give into the norm. They didn't pick up all their stuff and move to Revolutionary road.

So I suppose I will get off my computer and go make something happen... anything...

Frieda

2011-09-07T20:47:00.000-07:00

It's really funny the things you remember about your childhood. Like... smells, outfits you wore to a birthday party, crushes and memories. I wish I could bottle them up in a jar and keep them on my bookshelf to remember or at least have the discipline to write them down.

For the past week I keep coming back to this one particular memory. My great-grandmother Frieda Biedenwig. She was actually my step grandmother and I never met her. My grandmother's mother passed when she was relatively young and my grandfather re-married Frieda. I met him a few times throughout my life, those memories are for another time...

But her. She wrote us letters and always called us on our birthday's. When I say us, my grandmother has four children and between them there are eight grandchildren. Admittedly as I got older I dreaded the call. I never met this woman, I never knew what to say and she spoke in such a thick German accent I could hardly understand her.

But she called each one of us, every year. She remembered.

Maybe it's because she liked birthday's or maybe it's because she really loved my great-grandfather. I guess I will never know, but I wish I did.

Feeling Blessed...

2011-08-29T12:09:00.001-07:00

We just got back from a weekend in California visiting our wonderful friend Yuan. Yuan is like family to us, just like family. He has seen us both at our best and our worst, nothing is sugar coated, nothing is hidden... we just have a real friendship. His company is always a delight and I know he would walk through fire for us.

Friends like Yuan are hard to come by.

We had such a great time soaking up our surroundings. Walking around Stamford, taking in a Giant's game, running into my old sorority sister's, sipping wine in Sonoma and capturing coast by Santa Cruz and just good company. Somedays I wonder if I am living someone else's life. Who decided that I would be so blessed.

Thanks Yuan for being you, for the laugh's and the car sick adventures...

Keeping the beat...

2011-08-23T06:37:00.000-07:00

For the longest time I didn't fit in. I hadn't found that thing that I was really good at (not saying that I have now, but maybe closer than I ever have been.) I had read about this magical place where people live and dream and work in a place where the worlds greatest needs meet their talents etc. etc. But, for so so so many years I was lost.

I wasn't really good at anything, except connecting with people I suppose. I have been thinking about this a lot lately and how many stupid things I have done, tried and or failed at. One silly thing came to my mind... Mrs. Hinrichs 7th or 8th grade band lessons. I played the Saxophone (or tried) just like my dad did. During a practice at school we were having small group lessons and I was tapping my toes along with music and Mrs. Hinrichs said I wasn't keeping up with beat. My toe wasn't tapping with the music! She told me she had never seen any student do this - tap their toes against the beat... I guess that is what you would call it.

This just made me laugh and made my heart thankful that at least now I can keep up with the beat....

Branding/Blogging and watermelons...

2011-08-22T11:16:00.001-07:00

You can see that I'm still not getting my fancy new blog anytime soon, right?! I was at a conference this past week and one of my fellow photographer friends said that she consistently blogs everyday and how much of an effect it has had on the traffic of her blog. I so agree! The blogs that I follow are defiantly ones that post nearly everyday. Something I look forward to checking out because there is fresh new stuff to sift through... so still... the internet waits for me:-)

To branding...

Throughout the years... okay that sounds like I have been in the industry for years... ( it's been like three) that I have worked in the photography industry I have had the importance of branding ingrained in my head. Branding "you." Making your business not only about pretty pictures you take and hopefully sell, but about the person you are and what makes you different, special, unique. And how that important fact will set you apart from the competition.

I have thought about this long and hard and how I can make myself stand out. Maybe taking different types of photos, marketing to a niche group of people, shooting film (okay well not shooting film, but it's a nice thought) and even photographing pets! I don't have any magical ideas but a strange comparison really resonated with me this past weekend. It's something that my dad was talking about... A little back story... my dad is a farmer. He grows corn, beans, wheat and watermelon (our family's claim to fame.) For years people have come to our farm that is tucked into the middle of nowhere to purchase these melons, I would guess that some have come from a 3 - 4 hour radius and maybe even farther.

Sometimes this gets taxing on my parents. I asked my dad why he doesn't just hire someone to do all the sales. He his reply was, "because they want to see me." Wow! I have realized the success of my dad's operation all these years isn't necessarily the watermelons, though they really are fantastic, but him. It's my dad. It's his willingness to grow a good crop, provide excellent customer service and sit and talk to people for at least two hours that sometimes only spend $10.

The heart of the business isn't the melons but my dad. His incredible ability to connect with people, remember their names, details about their lives, and even make them laugh, has had people coming back for years.

I hope someday that people will be coming back to me not only for my pretty pictures but because they like me. They like my customer service, my ability to connect with them and just because I care. The market is saturated with photographers, even very talented photographers. I don't know how I will do it... maybe just like my dad? The connector that he is. Time will tell, I still have a few years to catch up to the amount of time he has been working in the people business.

For now... thanks dad for being a great example on how to run a successful business and most importantly connect with people.

Still..

2011-08-11T11:02:00.000-07:00

I still haven't mastered blogging, so I suppose that means I can't quite drop the 3 grand I would love to invest in a really smashing custom blog. But, that is okay. It seems like I have been the type to think, "once I have this really sweet new toy, computer, the best of..." whatever it is I will be consistent, #1 or whatever in that particular regard. When I went to college my mom took me to Omaha to the Gateway computer store and I remember her spending $3000 on my computer. Yes! $3000... that is why I am such a good sales person, she should have known this when I was a child and I convinced her to make me an ice cream cone Halloween costume... that's for an entirely other post! Anyway, about the computer. I'm not a student and that $3000 computer was just a headache and took up way to much space in my dorm room where I totally could have fit more clothes. So, all in all... the blog will have to wait until I am more consistent.

Something inspired me to write today. A video that J* posted, one of my most favorite photographers. Not for her images, but for who she is and how she has shaped my business and my life. I could watch her intro video 1 thousand times. One day I will have one. Watching it reminded me of my failure, where I have come and where I am going. I am so thankful for this place... this road that seems to be traveling upward. I have failed far, far, far more that I have succeeded, but that just makes the successes that much more delicious.

The me I want to be... again...

2011-07-15T12:36:00.000-07:00

Since starting my own business in January a million things have ran through my mind... how do I price myself? Am I too high or too low? What do I want to photograph? Who do I want to photograph and will anyone want me to photograph them?! A realization came to me today.... of what I want out of this and where I want it to go. Often I could see myself on a stage teaching other photographers or desiring that life... being big time! Do we all? But, that is just seeking fame and affirmation from the masses and do I really need that or could I even attain it. What I mostly want to do is create beautiful images of inspiring people... Maybe I have a tag line here?! Darcy Demmel Photography, "Beautiful images of inspiring people" or "Inspiring images of beautiful people." Oh and I would really like to travel too.

I really want a blog....

2011-07-15T12:34:00.000-07:00

I really want a cool blog... like one that you pay for and someone designs for you that is just really rad. However, I am not good about writing on them. I am going to give myself a test though and if I can keep up on posting on a blog then I am going to consider getting one designed for myself...

the me i want to be...

2010-03-16T19:13:00.000-07:00

"I kept thinking about how I didn't want circumstances to change in order to live the way I was meant to live." John Ortberg, (the me I want to be) You're on to something in this book Johnny and it makes me want to keep reading it. Reason number#285 that I decided to stop waiting until I feel awake enough to write in this damn blog.

My cool boss.

2009-09-08T18:55:00.000-07:00

I didn't know any other way to title my post - so here it is. Sarah is speaking at the Heartland of America Conference next spring as one of the featured wedding photographers. I'm very excited to hear her speak, what an honor it is to work with someone with such talent.

Program Description:

Urban Excursion:

A Wedding Safari! Bring your cameras, empty cards, and walking shoes because this program is on location! Sarah and her team will show you a wedding day in the life of Pfeiffer Photography! We’ll be shooting a wedding couple in the posh Kansas City shopping center, Zona Rosa. Expect to take away tips and tricks that you can start using immediately.

Topics include:
- Say NO to on camera flash
- Training a Rockstar Second Shooter
- Posing for trendy wedding parties
- Rocktography
- Lens selection
- and much more!

Bio:Sarah started with a degree in journalism and a minor in fine art from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln. After college, she worked for an architecture firm where she studied from top architectural photographers. Soon after, Sarah opened Pfeiffer Photography in a small commercial space in Lincoln, Nebraska. Just last year, she and her husband designed and built a home with a 1600 square foot studio attached in Roca, Nebraska, just outside the Lincoln city limits. Sophia and Darcy, who make up Sarah’s team have worked with closely with her to create one-of-a-kind wedding photography, custom albums, and gallery collections for their clients.

Dr. Demmel

2009-08-13T19:55:00.000-07:00

Ruth if you follow my blog at all, I have to give you big shout out. I would have hugged you on the phone today if I could have.

So... I gracefully slammed my finger in my car today. Luckily I have two wonderful medical people in my close circle of friends. First, Paul's mom, Ruth. She is just fantastic. I call her at random times asking for advice on my dramatic ailments and she is always sure to deliver fantastic advice.

I have always thought it was so insipring and cool (probably not the best use of words, but I'll use it anyway) that Paul's mom is a Dr. I look up to them. I know I would have never had the guts or the brains, or the stomach for that matter, to be one. The dedication and heart you have to have for this profession is just incredible.

Thanks Dr. Demmel, I think you are great!

One more shout out to Jess, my PA friend. I talked to her today as well. She is my other medical go to person. I found out today that next to her immediate family, I am "that" friend that is always calling for medical advice, a bit of a hypocondriac I know. So... thanks Jess, you're pretty great too!

This post wouldn't be complete without a special note to MY mom as well. When I was sick a few weeks ago it brought back memories growing up of how well my mom took care of me. It makes me think of the big blue blanket on the couch, Vicks Vapor Rub, orange juice from a can in the green pitcher and leg rubs. My mom isn't a medical professional, but don't kid yourself if she wouldn't have been on vacation today she would have gotten a call from me. For some reason complaining to mom just makes me feel better.

Focus on the Family

2009-08-12T10:46:00.000-07:00

I am a huge fan of Focus on the Family. Not only because I had a fantastic experience that their leadership institute in the Summer of 2006, but because I feel they have such a comprehensive ministry, hold true to their values and they are founded on such strong biblical world views. I listen to Dr. Dobson's podcast and have read a lot of his books and books Focus produces. Their podcast has given me so many tips on relationships, family, christianity and even political matters. I know some may disagree that Focus should not mix ministry and politics, but with the direction that our nation is going at this time I like to have some education about what is going on in Washington from a christian perspective. I don't claim to be an expert by any stretch of the matter at all! I do wish I was more informed and I have found that through their podcast and one of their ministries, www.citizenlink.com, it has been helpful. Also check out www.focusonthefamily.com.

Lucas + Laura

2009-08-05T16:11:00.000-07:00

It couldn't have been a better day for a wedding. Perfect weather for an outdoor wedding in August. Paul and I stayed with Luke and Jess (note Jess & I switched dresses for the evening) don't you just love her silk dress I'm wearing? Anyway, we went with them to the wedding. They have really become great friends of ours in the last few years, we love spending time with them. The wedding was at a small Lutheran Church outside Omaha and the reception was under a beautiful white tent at the couple's home. Flowers from her garden, fantastic food, fun music and I had a fantastic date. Paul gets major kudos for being such a great date. Enjoy the pics!

Model in the making...

2009-07-27T19:32:00.000-07:00

We had a great weekend in Chicago. I love the city. It's a warmer friendlier place than New York, but still very busy and tons to see and do. More Chicago pictures and blurbs to come...

First, there is a small internet contest I would like to submit a photo to. It's on depth of field. Paul generously and mostly willing.... (mostly) obliged to be my gorgeous model. I do have to say, I'm lucky. He's always very helpful in all my photography pursuits and thus far my biggest fan.

So... which one is your fav?

I think it's either this one...

This one....

Or this one...

Praise the Lord

2009-07-21T20:33:00.000-07:00

Psalm 150

Praise the Lord

Praise God in his sanctuary

Praise him in his mighty heavens

Praise him for his acts of power

Praise him for his surpassing greatness

Praise him with the sounding of trumpets

Praise him with the harp and lyre

Praise him with tambourine and dancing

Praise him with the strings and flute

Praise him with the clash of cymbals

Praise him with resound cymbaks

Let everything that has breath praise the Lord

Praise the Lord.

(My version)

Praise God

Praise God in his wonderous creation

Praise him on the mountain top

Praise him for his acts of grace

Praise him for his mystery

Praise him with your lips and actions

Praise him with your time and talent

Praise him with your forgiving heart

Praise him through your sinful mind

Praise him when you're tired and weary

Praise him when you're joyful and content

Let everything that has breath praise the Lord

Praise God

Praise God in his wonderous creation...

Whirlwind weekend in MN...

2009-07-14T22:00:00.000-07:00

My friend Diane (from Delta Gamma) asked me if I wanted to go up to Minnesota to visit our other friend Jenny for the weekend. I think this trip is becoming an annual thing. Diane and I have great chats and lots of laughs. There is nothing better than old friends. Jen and her husband Murphy have a 1o month old and they wanted me to take a few snaps of their baby Fiona.

This is my crazy friend Jenny. She is beautiful on the inside out. She is one of the funniest people I know. I started laughing right when I got in her house and didn't stop until I walked out the door. Fiona is going to have a wild ride with a mom as fun as Jen!

This makes me want to be a mom. (Someday a long, long time from now:-)

Jen saw this little dress at Mall of America and bought it for my benefit... cute hugh?! I wanted to buy up the whole store because there was so much cute watermelon stuff. I hope I have a girl someday.

Hm.... I wonder what this is?

Curious if I can touch it...

Is mom looking?

Maybe I'll just take a little lick...

Nah... I'll just stick it in there real quick before my mom can catch me... I'm cute, I can get away with it.

July 1

2009-07-10T20:12:00.000-07:00

We got into Chicago around 3:00pm. Check out the Jeep. I think I had a breakdown the day before because the mess was driving me crazy...Paul's place is great, furnished, view of the Hancock building, great location. We moved everything in, got organized and went to meet Paul's boss Bill.Bill showed us around Chicago, we went down to the "Taste of Chicago," and found a few hot spots to check out in future visits.

I saw this and thought of Yuan.

June 30

2009-07-10T19:53:00.001-07:00

I went to take a shower... probably five hours later I was looking through my pictures and this is what I found...

What a dork... he set up the timer and everything...

We went to Canada.. had a horrible lunch but got a few good pics:-)

I just thought this was a cute picture.

June 29

2009-07-10T19:14:00.000-07:00

We left the Adirondacks and were in route to Chicago. We camped around the Finger Lakes last year and decided to go back and check out one of the wineries. It was a beautiful view from the restaurant we had lunch.

"Need to move the camera to the left a little Darc."

He's quiet, but can be a goof sometimes.

We camped out on Lake... I'll have to ask Paul. We put the tent up in the rain, then it stopped. We went to check out Niagra Falls to see it lit up at night.

June 28th

2009-07-10T19:06:00.000-07:00

June 27th

2009-07-10T18:55:00.001-07:00

June 26th

2009-07-10T18:49:00.001-07:00

June 26th... The Grizwalds are off into the wild!

2009-06-26T05:58:00.001-07:00

If you saw the Jeep you would think we were the Grizwalds. I will post some pictures when I have a chance.

Hopefully the Jeep will make it to Chicago. We're off... going to cram a few more things in and take off. There is a large basket of laundry sitting right beside me, apparently that is my cue to take care of because Paul sits it within folding distance and walks off... funny:-)

Going to fold some laundry, pack some food and enjoy up state New York for a few days...

June 25th... beach/more packing/farewell UBS

2009-06-26T05:53:00.000-07:00

This will be a quick one... we are trying to get packed up and on the road. I remember the trip out here and we had a quater of the stuff that is in the Jeep now. I have been asking my self how someone as conservative as Paul accumulate so much stuff in two years!

Anyway... we had a great day today. More packing, one last trip to the beach and out to the Crab Shell to say farwell to Paul's UBS co-workers.

They were so fantastic and gracious to him. I can tell how well respected he was at UBS and what a great job he did. I almost got a little teary when Jason Lu told me how much he was going to miss Paul. He said that he was one of the best guys he knew and how much Paul helped him and taught him all he knew.

He will definately be missed.

June 24th - Fancy pants...

2009-06-25T10:54:00.000-07:00

We were lazy today, slept till... well I'm embarassed to even say. We cooked some stir fry and started packing and organizing. Bought a topper for the car and threw stuff out. I was the dictator mostly on this front. "That shirt is from 1985, if you want to wear it I'll still love you, but definately out of style!"

Paul treated Yuan and I to dinner at Stamford's Capitol Grill. It was amazing. The steak was to die for and what great company.

We went home and enjoyed a glass of wine on the balcony, he'll miss sitting out there, relaxing and enjoying the view....

June 23rd - Lion King/prince charming/indian food

2009-06-25T09:10:00.000-07:00

I got up early and started getting Paul's stuff organized. Yuan went to pick him up at the airport and they got back around noon. We got a few things done around Stamford and headed into the city.

Paul told me we were going to walk around New York and have supper with Shabad (his old roommate) you would remember Shabad if you went on the "Small Town Bar Tour!" We walked around Battery Park, 5th Avenue, I played on the life sized piano at FAO Toy Store and then he told me he had a surprise for me...

The Lion King!

It was a fantastic show! The costumes, actors, actresses, music... I loved it. I don't think Paul enjoyed it quite as much as I did, he prefers the opera and La' Boheme!

The show got over around 10pm and we headed over to Shabad's place to hangout and have supper with him, his roommate and parents. His parents are visiting from Mumbai, India. They are taking advantage of the recession and getting some great travel deals. We had a fantastic time with them. Shabads mom is a great cook - I love Indian food. A little spicy, but some plain yogurt really tames it down. His dad is hilarious! He reminds me A LOT of Shabad. Hopefully someday we can go to India to visit:-)

We walked around New York a little before we headed to Grand Central, took one last drink of NYC and headed home... I think I'll miss the city and I never even lived here.

June 22nd - Leaving on a jet plane...

2009-06-25T08:51:00.000-07:00

Monday was a mess... note to self: need to be much better organized. Really? It takes me forever to pack up my stuff. Paul was gracious and patient though, at least a little bit:-)

We headed to Falls City and mom and dad fixed us lunch and took us to the airport. Everything was on time and we flew to LGA. I got there and got a message from Paul, "call me when you get in, I have a surprise for you." He told me he was still in Kansas City, before they got off the runway the air conditioner started smoking and firefighters came... so he wasn't able to leave until Tuesday morning.

He was going to surprise me and take me to the Brooklyn bridge to take some night pictures. But, my personal driver (Yuan) took me instead and we had a great time. There is a little park that is open until 1:00am where you can walk around, relax and have a great view of the city and the bridge. We got back to Stamford at 2:00am.

NY NY

2009-03-15T15:17:00.000-07:00

Just got back from visiting Paul. We went into the city with our friend Yuan and he took a few pics of us in Times Square... had a great time... it always goes by way too fast.

This One's for YOU Alissa!!

2009-03-05T07:22:00.000-08:00

So... apparently since my cousin Alissa was very young she has wanted to go to New York City to see Balto, a character in some Disney movie. Well, here he is! I went searching all over Central Park for this cute little guy. Now you don't have to come visit him Alissa! Miss you!

Dust...

2009-02-26T10:40:00.000-08:00

Last night I went to Sheridan Lutheran's Ash Wednesday service. After the sermon they had communion and we went up and received ashes on our foreheads. The man that was painting them on our foreheads said to us, "you are dust and to dust you will return." For some reason this short sentence hit me like a ton of bricks.

Lately I have come to the realization that my walk with God has been distant and needs some improvement. I haven't felt God the way I used to or had the desire to be close to Him. But, I have realized this and am trying to make amends.

Dust...

Someday I will return to dust... we all will... What truly matters the most in this life is our relationship with God. If we don't have that, we have nothing. So often I try to replace the longing for God with material things, people, accomplishments and it ends up being ever so empty.

So before the day comes that we will go back into the earth I pray that I/we will live vibrant, adventurous, abundant lives.

A tap on the shoulder...

2009-02-03T19:44:00.000-08:00

A friend from back home got married a few weeks ago. It's always nice to go to a wedding of an old high school friend or someone you've known for a long time. Chances are you will have the opportunity to connect with people you haven't seen in a long time, reminisce, dance and share a few laughs and drinks together. It was a fantastic wedding and the bride and groom (Brian and Jessie) make a wonderful couple.

In this particular post I have to comment on something that happened at the wedding that has been on my heart since. I went with my parents to the wedding because I didn't have a date - which, more often than not, if it's a wedding from back home that I'm invited to, so are my parents. Since I was very young they have shared many friendships with me. My friends fell in love with my parents. They invited all my friends into their home and into their hearts. I can't count how many times people have told me what "cool" parents I have, or how nice, generous, fun and funny they are. The list could go on and on and on.

The night dwindled down and a group of us were sitting at a table chatting when my friend Julie told me my dad did the cutest thing... she said my dad was across the table from my mom and he had someone tap her on the shoulder to see if she wanted to dance. It was so simple and if anyone reads this post they could think this is silly or empty, but it means so much to me. My dad always makes a point to ask my mom to dance, slow, fast, you name it. (And during certain events he could gather a crowd around him to show off is dance moves - this is for another post though!) They both work hard to keep their love alive. Actually I don't know if you would really call it work because they have so much fun at it... they make each other laugh and look at life as a dance. They are truly best friends and I know they enjoy eachother's company.

My parents celebrated their 30 year wedding anniversary last November... I hope if I am married to someone for that long they will still tap me on the shoulder (or have someone else do it) to see if I want to dance... even if by then I'm in a wheelchair!! haha!

STUDIO PROMO!

2009-01-28T17:01:00.000-08:00

Valentines Day at Village

2009-01-18T21:41:00.001-08:00

Please check back for information and upcoming events for the Valentines Day Volunteer night - a perfect place to take a date! Paul and I went last year for Valentines Day and we had a blast!

Village Manor - Christmas Volunteer Project

2009-01-18T19:19:00.000-08:00

It had been on my heart for years that I needed to spend time volunteering at a nursing home. Finally in January of 2007 I decided to take action. In conjunction with this, I also felt a nagging to do something around the holiday’s that included my friends, to spread some Christmas cheer to the residents at Village Manor, hence the Village Manor - Christmas Volunteer Project came alive. We had approximately 15 volunteers and it was a huge success!

Monday, December 1st, was the first night of VM-CVP (Village Manor Christmas Volunteer Project) and we kicked it off with Jeopardy night along with treats, games and prizes.

My beautful, wonderful, creative mother, the brains behind Jeopardy.

Nick caught flirting with some of the ladies:-) Everyone sat and chatted with the residents to get to know them better. They really appreciate the time we spent just chatting and hanging out with them.

Rachel & Tyler posing with Delmer. Delmer was famous for asking Ria how much it cost her to put those, "stripes" in her hair!

We also played cards with some of the residents.

Ericka, Nick & Ria meeting Leona's bird Chicken! We had to monitor the amount of cookies that chicken was "eating!"

Back Row: Darcy, Rachel, Tyler, Ria, Nick & Ericka. Front Row: Delmer, Leona and Della.

Monday, December 8th. The Bathtub Dogs!!! The Bathtub Dogs were a HUGE hit, the young men are an A cappella group from the University of Nebraska - Lincoln. They are a highly sought after group, so we were extremely blessed that they were willing to come and volunteer. One particular touching moment was when a woman wheeled out on her moterized scooter and looked up at them and said, "it's sure nice that you young people remember us old folks around the Holiday's." Another one of the ladies said that it was the best performance they have ever had there! Thank-you Bathtub Dogs, not only are you an amazing singing group but you are also doing great things in the community!

Along with the craze of the Bathtub Dogs we played games, ate cookies and chatted with the residents.

Monday, December 15th was the last evening of volunteering. My cousins Courtney and Maggie helped out by leading "Name that Tune" on the piano. Growing up they were amazing Pianist so I asked them if they would play for us, they did a phenomenal job - Thank-you Courtney & Maggie!!

This was a short simple project, but it went well and those that participated enjoyed it very much, as did the Village residents. Thank-you so much to everyone that gave of your time and your heart. It was truly a blessing to work with you and see how much the residents of Village Manor enjoyed spending time with my precious friends!

Please come back to Village Manor and bring your friends and family to volunteer!

Tales from Home...

2009-01-13T20:07:00.000-08:00

I hadn't been into the nursing home for a few weeks, I think my small posse of gray haired friends were happy to see me. I sat down to visit with a few women as they were finishing up supper, and a gentlemen at the nearby table was teasing one of the women. The women and I had a short conversation about how much the men act like 12 year old's and they like it even more when we laugh at them. A few minutes later a sweet old man named John wheels up in his scooter and the conversation goes a little something like this:

(John puts his hands on Eva Mae's head sneakily)
Eva Mae: John you about gave me a heart attack!
John: Well Eva Mae, I hope you don't have a heart attack because then I would have to give you mouth to mouth.

2009-01-11T14:20:00.001-08:00

I am currently reading "My Grandfather's Son." There is much to comment about this book; something that stood out to me as I was reading today was this prayer that Clarence Thomas said he recited daily through some difficult times.

A prayer attributed to St. Francis of Assisi:

Keep a clear eye toward life's end. Do not forget your purpose and destiny as God's creature. What you are in His sight is what you are and nothing more. Do not let worldly cares and anxieties or the pressures of office blot out the divine life within you or the voice of God's spirit guiding you in your great task of leading humanity to wholeness. If you open yourself to God and his plan printed deeply in your heart, God will open Himself to you.

2008-12-31T11:37:00.000-08:00

Since this is officially the last day of 2008 I thought I would go through the thousands of pictures I have taken throughout the year and do a recap of sorts. Here are some of the highlights...

january.

I flew out to Connecticut with Paul's mom and dad for a visit. They celebrated their 35th wedding anniversaryin December of 07' and this was part of the celebration.

february.

We celebrated Drake's first birthday in February, this obviously isn't a picture of Drake, but my gramps. I really like it for some reason. He's just the cutest grandpa, 84 and still going strong and looking great!

Prince Charming surprised me for Valentines Day, the most surprised I have ever been...

march.

Happiness is being a godmother!

One of my favorite monsters - Trent Lloyd.

The annual Easter treasure hunt.

Meet Hannah Heinrich - daughter of Lynn & Jeff, close friends of Paul & I.

Our friend Steve graduated from Harvard with his MBA in May - Paul and i went to visit in March. We are so proud of you Steve!

april.

Merle. An old wise man that changed the way I look at the world.

Sarah & Yinka - one of the most amazing weddings I have ever been to. They have shown the most amazing example of a love story that honors the Lord.

Shabad meet Nebraska - Nebraska meet Shabad... both will never be the same...

Sarah Boehler gets hitched!

Scottie gets confirmed, the whole family was there to celebrate.

Long Island, NY.

may.

Meet Blake Nicholas Beninato - proud parents Nik and Diane.

My favorite monsters - Brice, Nevan & Trent.

Congrats Brother, we are so proud of you!!!

Prince Charming surprised me again, happy birthday to me - 27 years young!

New York's gorgeous Finger Lakes, our first camping trip of the summer. We had a wonderful surprise by seeing my friend from High School Pete Carter.

june.

Hansen family reunion.

Joshie and his lovely lady Molly and I.

july.

Mohawk weekend. That's all I have to say about that...

Our crazy family - Indiana Road Trip.

Meet Addie Harlan - Proud parents Zac & Erin...

My best friend from High School, Ali Glather and her little girl Ella.

Everyone has kids! Sarah Armbruster's little girl Ava.

Guess who fed me? My godmother... she just doesn't do it quite like my mom!!

august.

Demmel sibling trip.

I love this picture of Paul and Laura, he is such a great big brother.

My favorite picture of Paul's sister and I.

Boat trip with Paul's boss.

Liz's wedding - Diane, Mel, Liz and I.

Meet Mr. & Mrs. Kennedy.

september.

Paul's family over Labor Day.

My Gram turned 80!!

We took Jess & Luke to the farm - we had a great time!

Ella & Ali & I up in the shed.

My prince charming & I:-)

Husker game with my Meg!!!

Hanging out with Erin & Addie and we went to the Buddy Walk.

I just love this little guy.... Lincoln Barcz.

Meet baby Darci!

october.

Wonderful toad trip with Paul.

Drake in the tractor.

november.

Lauren Swan, "the princess of China."

Thanksgiving.

december.

Christmas nursing home project.

Blake Beninato - he is getting so big!

Trip to visit Paul and we had to see the tree!

Congrats Sarah & Joe!!

Hannah Heinrich & Annie Backemeyer.. so cute:-)

The Old Timer gang.

Christmas with my fam!

Aliza's wedding.

Prince Charming surprised me one last time for the year... took me to a wonderful opera.

Happy New Year!

2008-12-31T11:23:00.000-08:00

I was contemplating what my New Years Resoulutions would be and I decided that my resolution would be to start blogging. I'm not sure what I'm going to write but here's to 2008 and new beginings.