I love making my own bread. My mother was visiting in Sept through November and she helped me get started. I have not bought a loaf of bread since the beginning of November. My son has been experiencing some trouble focusing in school and after speaking with one of my doctors, I took him and us off food colors, additives, artificial flavors and preservatives. Okay, don't go bonkers, it is difficult with those items being in pretty much everything, but I do my best to limit these things from our diet. It has helped tremendously. Making bread is actually not that hard and I receive many compliments on my baking. I have wanted to take pictures of many of the batches and seeing as how I am off work for a while I thought I could pull out the trusty dusty. Let me know what you think... I know I need a food stylist. :)

Hello....
Christmas has come and gone but stays in my heart always. However, this year it was tough. I was so busy before and then was so exhausted I kinda missed Christmas. So.... HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!! I wish each and everyone a smile and a laugh, lift your glass and toast someone new and someone old. If you have been hurt or hurt someone, then forgive and forget or get it out in the open. Life is to short my friends. Look around, all we have is each other.
I cherish life and desire to live it Godly and happily.
Love and most Seasonally,
Spring Renee

My handsome boy... just a few snaps of Mr. Personality. A few were taken by a fellow colleague when we switched family sessions. Credit should be given where it is due. Enjoy and What fun!!

In Memory of Cisco

A very sad day on the farm for me. My baby that I saved two years ago, Cisco passed away. I am not sure why but after speaking with the vet and another shepherd, we think it was from something that is called overeating disease. I will be looking into the details of it tomorrow, but for now I am exhausted and my mind is emotionally drained. There are two newborns in the barn but I guess with life there is death. That is a fact. I will miss his sweet call to me in the mornings and his being first to me at feed time. He will be missed greatly.

What a Day!!!! My first deer ever!!!!

For several years now I have wanted to go hunting. So last year I asked my friend Roger if he would take me. He said I had to prove to him that I could shoot. I said 'Great. When can we do that?' A couple of days later we went over and I got my lesson on the rifle and the safety. I took aim and fired away I believe 3 rounds the first time. We all got up and went to see the target. I had done very well... only one out of the big circle. I was excited and said I wanted to do it again. The next time I hit in the tiny circle and several in the smaller one out. I was pleased with my deonstration, but couldn't tell waht everybody else thought. We went inside with me feeling accomplished and glad my shooting lessons beginning at the age of five with my dad paid off. Visiting went on and then it was time to go. As I was putting my coat on to go, Roger said, "Well, you exceeded my expectations. I did not even think you would hit the target. If you really want to go hunting, be here at 5 tomorrow morning and we will go." I was so thrilled and replied, "I will be here."

The next morning was early and cold, but I was there. I adorned the necessary orange coat and hats not worrying about the fashion no no, just ready to go. We went and sat in the homemade deer stand wagon. It was cold and my body was nervous. I kept thinking I saw one, but it never was. What we did see was a beautiful red tailed hawk swoop into the grass. Then a rather large coyote walked right by us and then we saw the most fantastic red fox I have ever seen. He had the blackest ears and the most gorgeous tail that was all poofy with a black ring and then a silver tip on the end. The way he moved across the field was so graceful, I was stunned and even forgot in that moment of beauty that I had my camera and I could have shot him, but then he caught our scent, looked at us and lept into the tall grass. The morning went on and we saw nothing. Back to the house for a late but delicious breakfast.

I did go hunting again on the last day of deer season and I sat in the stand for several hours and saw nothing. however, there was a time that my heart began to race and pound when the leaves were rustling and my mind began to say "It is right behind you. You have to be prepared to shoot it...." I would slowly turn around to see nothing, but I definitely heard leaves moving. Twice that happened and my nerves were shot.... I thought that Roger was trying to freak me out, but no! It was a little squirrel. I found out they are very noisy and deer are not. Dusk was falling and I put the safety on and put the gun down. I was going to shoot SOMETHING this year! I picked up my camera and began capturing the sunset on the bluffs for the colors were radiant. I shot for about 8 minutes and as I finished and turned around, there was a small buck just standing there watching me. He flipped his head and in two bounds he had turned around and disappeared into the woods. OH well, I was his entertainment for the day. At least I had finally seen one. The season ended with my freezer empty but me knowing I could go the next year.

this story and images will continue, but this is rush holiday season....

Shannon and Scott

What a fun couple!! Both Shannon and Scott are full of life and smiles along with the element of surprise. In this day and time of love being lost and forgotten it is so nice to see love in abundance. Here are a few of their most beautiful day. Shannon had me laughing the entire day although I did share a few tears now and then. Please view the rest of their images at www.springrenee.com Oh and enjoy the cold weather brrrrrr and what great timing you two had on missing it.

A Great Loss

Being a photographer requires so much of each of us. The long hours, the joyful praise, the nitpicks, labs that run late, the shipper who does or doesn't show up, the albums that come back the wrong size, the cameras that are temperamental and so much more, but our rewards are so much greater. We are invited to share in people's lives, telling their stories of birth and beginnings, true love, age milestones, and the joy of life itself in all forms. I have always looked at my profession as one of great importance for we as photographers capture people's lives with our vision and they touch ours with their joy and spirit. Tonight I saw first hand that touching of people's lives.

Last Wednesday evening a fellow photographer was taken from this life unexpectedly and the outpouring of those he touched was true and full. As Randy and I waited in the line, I spoke with a young woman who had worked for Bruce, knew his kids when they were little, he photographed her wedding and so many other people that she knew. Photographers do not just take pictures, we touch lives. Bruce did that. It was apparent that many loved and appreciated him for who he was. I met Bruce Cannon several years ago and just last spring had a great conversation about a certain local photography company that neither of us care for and we ended the conversation with, "Let's get together sometime.", and tonight I am so regretting not taking the time in this rat race we know as life to have him and his wife over for dinner. I may not have known him like others but there is this common bond between photographers... we share a gift of seeing things in a different light and we know the trials that we all share. When one of us needs help, we are there to help the other, when one goes down we all feel the loss. I have felt the loss since last Weds. morning when I received the call and it hurts. It just doesn't seem fair. Last Wednesday the photography community lost a special soul who touched so many. My heart is full and my thoughts are with each and every one of his loved ones.

Out of the mouth of babes

So today, 3 days after the election things are a little calmer on the radio. However, today I had on talk radio and they were playing an excerpt of Obama's speech from Tuesday night. He was talking about change and what he cared about etc... but the moment I was captured by, was my son. At that moment Caleb was walking through the kitchen making a yogurt mustache and candidly stated like a politician of eight years old, "Yeah, Blah, blah, blah... all I care about is me, me, me, myself." Please understand he was referring to Obama and not speaking of himself. I immediately thought WOW!!! And out of the mouth of babes the truth is spoken.

The Ricardos: A True American Family

"Lucyyyyyy, I'm Home!!!" Yes, Halloween has come and gone, but not without lots of fun and song. We were The Ricardo family this year and I think we pulled it off quite well. I was amazed at how many people did not know who Lucille Ball was. Kinda sad if you ask me, generations that don't know what clean comedy truly is. At first Caleb was unhappy about "Being someone that nobody was going to know." But after the first two houses he changed his tune and 'Babaloo' began. The weather was fantastic and although we had several parties and places to go, we did what we could and had a blast doing it. I have always wanted to pretend to be the great Lucille Ball and this year it meant more.

The Ricardo's were a true American family that lived the American dream. The American Dream.... it seems that so many have lost sight of what America is all about. The system is all askew and we are struggling with how to fix it. As I go on with my daily life and live in the community I notice that so many Americans have their blinders on and have given up on hard work, values, high standards and their dreams. I have never wanted a handout and do not expect anyone to bail me out, if I am in a predicament, I put myself there and must get myself out. With life, freedom and choice, there is responsibility. What has happened to Americans taking responsibility? And at this time in our great country when there is so much at stake, I hope and have been praying that all of us will take the time to not only reflect on what is right and precious to us all, but also what could be lost, not just for those of us now, but for the generations to come. Stop expecting a handout. Instead work hard and believe in yourself, the reward is so much greater. Remember, the past is the past.... hello!!!! Please research the candidates, their true values, their plans, their friends, their enemies, their past, their beliefs. Don't take others words for it and for goodness sake not the medias word. Knowledge is the most powerful weapon.... get it and use it. I still believe in this great country and speak that belief everywhere I go. I am only one person in the ocean but with one grain of sand the ripples that I can make are amazing and a fact. Imagine what will happen when we drop our grain of sand in the ocean. Our forefathers were not perfect and neither is any other human being on this planet, but we have been given a great gift and that is freedom.... protect it and may we put a foot forward for what is right and what this country was founded on. On November 4th, may truth, morals, and American family values roar loudly from sea to shining sea. Change will come... it always does, but change doesn't begin with a new president it must first begin with ourselves.

Fun Family

Family.... it means everything to us all and yet we sometimes lose sight of that during this rat race we live in. I had the pleasure of capturing the spirit of this vibrant family and enjoyed every minute of it, fish faces and all.

Charlotte

As I was going through files today and cleaning some out, I found one of my most intriguing sessions. Meet Charlotte. She was right on time as well as I remember and the session began with her eyeballing me and my crazy angles right away. She did not ask any questions but I think she really wanted to. I found her quite amazing. Her ability to stay focused on the pose was incredible. If only all my clients had her 'staying with it' power. Her images are incredible and she watched me carefully and intently the entire shoot. During the session a guest dropped by but was not able to leave. Charlotte seems to have this extremely catching personality. Happy October everybody and thanks for dropping by.

Plays on words were intended and I approve this blog. I would love to know what you think of my posts. Please leave a comment or send me email.

Emily & Jeff

What a beautiful day we in Missouri have had. The skies were whispy and fun. The breeze just right, the 'wind' was perfect tho'. :) A few years ago I did Emily's senior pictures and I am now honored to capture this most special time in her vibrant life, true love.

Emily has the most amazing blue eyes and black hair, just like I always wanted to have. I don't know if she remembers me telling her the story of my Barbie doll, (ok, ok!, I had a Barbie, but she had to ride a horse and tractor and change the oil in her car. Anyway, I requested my Barbie to have only black hair and blue eyes. Emily definitely has it. So today I met Emily's Mc. Dreamy, Jeff. What a catch!! His smile goes on forever and when he looks at Emily he can't stop smiling and making her laugh. We had a blast at our sites and despite heavy traffic we caught the best light and had fantastic fun. I love watching couples interact and hope you like what you see. Here are a few of my favorites. Their anniversary is today and they have much to celebrate.... beginning with each other, winning or losing if it is Jeff :), the color green, found love, excitement, Clover and feet. Let me know what you think... leave a comment or email me. :)

Caleb's First Cat Fish

How exciting!!! On Sunday Caleb came home from going fishing with dad and Uncle Roger to have caught his first Catfish. Not just one, but two!! As you can see he was beaming and very proud. "It weighed 15 pounds." Actually it was 22" long, but none the less, it was huge for my adorable 8 year old son. I was busy Sunday and missed the excitement, but luckily Aunt Linda took some pictures and sent them. Thank you. Caleb is ready for more fishing. It is a shame summer is almost over.

Missing my Soul Mate

As many of you know I grew up in North Carolina. So every summer I try travel home and see friends, family and my soul mate, the Atlantic Ocean. Our love affair began in the 80's and still burns brightly. I am trying to find my way there permanently. Many tell me it is the fantasy, but I know the sea loves me. Anyway, this world keeps a spinning and things continue to change. And change has come to my place I hold dear. Pleasure Island, NC was founded with family values, hometown goodness, and mom and pop businesses. Several years ago investors came in and bought many of the small businesses out. Now there are high rises that have changed more than just the view, but some of the appeal. Many of the originals are still surviving and for that I am thankful. I had several conversations with a few and was relieved to hear them say that this was home and they were going to keep it that way. I am all for change but I also believe that improvements can be done while preserving the atmosphere of a place. So on our visit this year I found out dogs were unwelcome and there were no bumper cars downtown. Bummer!! So, Caleb, Sadie, my dog, and I made the best of downtown by thoroughly enjoying our almost daily Britt's doughnut. The collage is downtown Carolina Beach and some of the lights and images from years past. Both of my fishing trips were canceled due to weather, thanks 'Hannah', but I will get out there eventually. A few of the images are with Hannah coming in and me leaving.... only because I had a job inland mind you.

Miss Betty is a fabulous story and I wish its Captain the swiftness of waves in it's journey back to a working vessel. I was allowed to come aboard the shrimper and the history I felt within it's walls was moving. I captured many impressive images and hope to include them in my gallery show. Miss Betty holds herself up well. Tarry Ho!!

Two trips were made so far and I will be making a third in November for a study of aquatic life that I have wanted to do for years now. During my trips I worked jobs and I was able to see a few old friends and made many more. While traveling this summer I came to realize, that there are many people in this world that see only what they want. As I went around embracing all that I miss and appreciating every moment I had there, I found myself delving deep into the blue that surrounded me and sculpting out what means the most in life. It is vital for one's self to do that every now and then, and I needed it. I came home missing all and with fall knocking on my front door, even though it knows that Spring lives here, I still hold onto the feel of the sand on my toes and the ocean mist caressing my cheek, all the while looking forward to the day I do not have to leave.

Ashlyn Senior

I love seniors!!! Their life is in front of them... wait a minute aren't our lives in front of us everyday? Oh well... you get the notion. Rain and darkness may tried to ruin our plans but not for me. I love a good challenge and today I had one with the elements. Meet Ashlyn, a vibrant and very beautiful girl. The light left us earlier than I had expected yesterday and the rain tried to ruin today but not with me at the helm. Ashlyn and I had a blast!!! What do you think? How I love my passion. Remember the Spring Renee senior sale is this month only. Give me a buzz.

Jeremy and Jayme

What a couple!!! I enjoy so much being with great people. I had the pleasure to share in the happiness of Jayme and Jeremy's wedding day and to tell their story as it unfolded. The colors were gorgeous, the weather was threatening rain but it held off just long enough and a most beautiful couple. I did experience some antics from a few that shall be left unnamed but they know who they are.. :). I survived them and the next wedding I will have my own cane. Look out!!! Enjoy the true emotion that prevailed on this most wonderful day with a few of their images.

Sam Senior

Autumn is here and I am getting busier than a bee at the Botanical Gardens. What fun I had working with Sam and her mom. I actually took a few of her mom for her expression was priceless. Mom's watching their daughters is something we can all enjoy. Our session was in two parts and it was worth it. I love capturing the essence of my clients. The giggles and smiles made my day. Enjoy.

Welcome Gifts

Cheers. What an evening of joy filled the farm Thursday evening. It began with Caleb and I discussing a walk with the dogs after our dinner. We each collectively said no and then ok and then no and then ok. After dishes were put away off we went. He on his bike and me on my feet. Half way down the lane I remembered trash day was Friday and decided to carry/drag the can to the end of the lane. Yes it is a long lane but I was up to the task. Caleb came up and began to help me which was great, considering my screaming back issues. As we continued our task talking about the wind and the seeping dusk I realized a sheep was talking to me. I gave a shout out and we continued walking. Then Caleb and I both looked out into the dusk laden pasture to see Pepper, one of our ewes, butting heads with Cisco and really talking to me. That was odd and why is she away form the herd, I thought. I began to pay more attention. Then I realized she was talking to me with her 'I'm having a lamb.' tone. Midwife mode kicked in. The trash can was left stranded on the side of the road and full speed ahead went Caleb and I. We had to get her to the barn and we were hoping we were not to late. I threw on my muck boots and grabbed the most handy of all devices (besides the microwave) the cell phone and began to quickly dial neighbors numbers, but no answers. I finally got a hold of a friend, Michael, and he agreed to come help. I hung up thankful. I tethered the Bully ram to the front post and he became an unhappy camper. I began to try and corral Pepper to the front gate but had to follow and chase her many times before successfully roping her. Caleb and I discussed the plan to get her out of the pasture and waited for the 'hero', as Caleb called him, for we were being attacked by mosquitoes and running out of time. Michael arrived and we three put the plan into motion. Somehow between the baaing cries, the biting mosquitoes, the confused sheep, and the mother who wanted to run away, we managed to get Pepper out of the fence by the light of truck headlamps. Once out of the pasture the gate went up, buckets gathered, fence turned hot, and the ram loosed, I joined Michael and Caleb walking Pepper to the barn. She was going as willingly as an ewe in labor could go, but needed persistent pushes, coaxing, and pulls. And then it happened, she was in the stall. A small wave of relief ran over me, for after three years of not so great lamb seasons I knew what might lie ahead. We put some more saw dust down and fixed some lights where the bugs would be drawn away and the three of us went into the house to give her some quiet time. Caleb and Michael played cards while I finished up some chores and then it was bed time for Caleb. With Caleb in bed Michael and I grabbed some drinks of water and headed out to check on her progress. The closer we got to the barn the louder I heard the sound of birthing taking place. Lights came on and the miracle of life was revealed in less than a few minutes of our arrival. It was amazing, and the newborn had made his entry into the world naturally. I did my best not to worry and let Pepper's instinct kick in and take over. However I did make sure he was breathing and then I backed off. As we watched I mentioned to Michael that I would know we were done when I saw the afterbirth. He commented, "There could be another?" And like magic she began and in just a little bit another was on the ground. She came out in a flip and Pepper began to lick her but it was on the wrong end. I knew she needed to breathe and waited as long as I could but I had to go in and clean off her nose. We watched and listened as momma cared for the lambs and talked to them. It was amazing to see the smallest of the two be the first to make it to her feet. After an hour and neither had nursed yet, it was time to move in and give a little incentive, plus I was exhausted and ready to go bed. How I love the circle of life,... ok, maybe not all of it sometimes, but it all works. As I helped the boy begin to feel what it is like to make his back legs work my heart swelled. I love animals and to feel a new life in your hands and know you are helping them stand for the first time... it is just working. I could explain it but you are probably bored stiff by now... so Michael came in and helped with getting the lambs their first taste of nourishment. Pepper was a little confused about what was going on with her body parts and needed a little encouragement also. After a fair amount of time had passed with us helping the lambs we were leaning on the barn door watching and a wave of relief washed over me along with joy. I said, "I like fall lambing. No temps under 0 degrees, the mother had them on her own and has accepted both of them. Tonight was just perfect." He responded with, "This was my first birthing ever." I had had no idea. We then talked for a little bit and I asked or maybe I said "You get to name them." He thought for a bit and said"How about Elliot and Sam?" I thought and agreed... I liked Elliot, Sam or Samantha needed to grow on me. We stayed and watched and felt good about their abilities before calling it an evening. I told Michael thank you and went inside to clean up. It was a great night. I am thankful for the lambing to have gone so well and that the stars were out and twinkling. I could have done without the mosquitoes the size of hummingbirds, but this is Missouri. Having friends that care is something that I do not take lightly. I have many friends, mostly two legged, but quite a few four. And now I have two more. Caleb saw them the next morning and called 'Sam' Salsa... well it stuck. Elliot and Salsa are doing well and Pepper is a fantastic mother. Thanks again Michael.

September Morning

The seasons are changing and everyone on the farm feels it. On this crisp morning the cool air mingles with the heavy dew laden fields creating a place of peace in this time of uncertainty that surrounds us. As I drove Caleb to school this morning my thoughts turned to so many items of interest, but one really stood out. The beauty that we were passing. It was all around and I wondered how many commuters were actually seeing it. The fog laying heavy over the water that just this past Sunday was wreaking havoc on our daily commutes. It was a sight of serenity. The fields of grass looked as if diamonds had blossomed overnight. The golden rays of sun caressing the stalks of corn awaiting their harvest. The sheep bounding briskly in the pasture all fluffy and white creating an image of cotton balls on the run. I put the window down and welcomed the chill, breathed in the crispness of the air and thanked my heavenly Father for this beautiful land that we are blessed to share. There is uncertainty all around us, but we as Americans have the choice to find our certainty. I am grateful for that and do not take my freedom lightly. Sure times might be tough, but truly what is tough? I believe that so many of us have forgotten. I have been reading a book that was written 141 years ago to Caleb this week. You might know it? The Little House in The Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder. By todays standard they had it rough!! But after just one chapter my eight year old son exclaimed the next morning that he sorta wished it was like it was back then... that we didn't have all the technology. We discussed it over breakfast and his reasoning was that people would be closer and not allow the distractions to run their lives. So, after one day of no TV we are deciding to make it a week and log what we do differently and how much fun we have together. For starters we picked apples. He found out he could climb a tree and gently ask the tree with a little limb shake to let go of its amazing fruit. Then he learned that underneath the outside covering of dirt and grime when you give a fast rub on your pants an apples true beauty comes forth in all its brilliance, deep color and shine. He worked on one for over half an hour. "I am going to give this one to my teacher and it is shining like a red ruby." We have also taken a long walk by the light of the Harvest moon laughing and sharing, looking and listening. Embracing this earth and each other is what matters in life.... at least that is what it is for me. Ok. Sure, those of you who know me are fully aware that I am a complicated woman, but deep down I hold onto the truths and the simple things this life has to offer. Have a great day and look for that hidden treasure.

Flight Study I

I am working on much... what do you think of this one?

North Carolina Trip August 2007 part 1

My dear friends I am very aware that I have so much to get caught up on. The reality hits me daily. Can you believe that Caleb, Sadie and I had the most incredible trip last August and I am just now downloading images off the cards. Crazy? I agree, but that shows you that I put others first.
This image is of Carolina Beach North Pier. It is one of many images and stories that are on the way. Keep the season.