We LOVE Your GUTS!

Kidneys especially.

About 5 years ago, Tim was diagnosed with Kidney Failure. We were surprised, but not shocked because 2 of his siblings also have kidney failure and have had to have transplants.Over the last 5-ish years, Tim has been seeing a nephrologist regularly every 3-6 months as requested by his doctor. They've monitored his B.U.N. and creatinine levels closely and determined late last summer that transplant time was getting close. We then met with a transplant coordinator, social worker, financial coordinator and surgeon. 13 vials of blood were drawn and labs ran. The goal for Tim during this time was to have him ready for transplantation before it became necessary for him to go on dialysis. This included, for us, finding a living donor.We've talked to many people about donating their kidney to Tim. Not asking anyone specifically, but just throwing it out there so people know what's going on and if it's something they would be willing to do, we'd be willing to take them up on it. So many have said it's something they would think about, and we appreciate SO MUCH that they would even consider it.At Tim's appointment today, his doctor had his name put on the waiting list for a kidney. Within the next week or so, we'll have the results of his blood work to know if he'll need to start dialysis. (His last labs read that he was at 12% kidney function, dialysis usually starts around 10% funcion.) As he has been feeling pretty good, we're hoping dialysis will be put off for a few more months.This is where you come in.Have you seen the billboard on the highway that says something like "Donate a kidney/car to the kidney foundation"? Well, if you've been thinking "hmm... I have this spare car lying around, but I also have a spare kidney.... what to do... what to do..." We'd like to encourage the kidney donation. :)Here's what you do.Call Cathy at 801-507-8311 or 801-507-3380.Cathy is Tim's transplant coordinator. She'll schedule a time for you to get a work up done to see if you're a match for Tim.What you need to know.Tim's blood type is A+, however, if you are A+ OR A- you can still be a match. If the sub-grouping is necessary, it will be determined later on.Recovery time for the donor is 4-6 weeks on average. You would be in the hospital for 5-7 days. You can't drive for 2 weeks or lift anything over 20 lbs for 3 weeks.Either our insurance or Medicare covers both the donor surgery and the recipient surgery, so there is no out of pocket cost for you.That's it. So now if you're thinking "I only have one kidney... I'm diabetic... I'm the wrong blood type... I hate hospitals... I'm terrified of needles... Tim? Who's Tim?" I have one more teensy weensy favor to ask to help us out. For all you bloggers out there. Link us! Copy this and post it to your blog, put a link, copy and email to friends and family, whatever. But please help us spread the word and find some new guts for my hubby.If you do decide to be tested, please e-mail me at tim_and_cas@yahoo.com so we can follow up with the coordinator.Whew! If ya got through all that,

THANK YOU!

You can keep tabs on us and the kidney updates by visiting our blog. http://www.thedaysofcassie.blogspot.com/
Thanks Everyone!

Cassie and Tim

Aloha!

Aloha everyone. I am FOB from Hawaii. My sincerest apologies for the lack of blogging. Our lovely hotel (and I say that with all the sarcasm I can muster) who claimed they had wifi, never once did they indeed have internet access for us. So, it is kind of hard to blog when you have no way of bloggin. ;)

Needless to say it was everything Hawaii is cracked up to be. The workshop was amazing, fantastic, and life changing...needless to say, a lot of things will be changing in my vision, my photography, my offerings, and my company. I am really excited to share with you about the workshop as soon as my film is back. I figure it will be more enjoyable to share that experience with you when I have photos to go along.

For now, I am JET-LAGGED and didn't sleep a wink last night and I have two kiddies waiting to be LOVED on!

Missed you ALL!

Sledding Fun

I feel so lucky, I got to take Jothan on a little "date" Saturday. Just me and him. It was WONDERFUL. I have not been sledding since I was LITTLE! He had a blast. He talks about it all the time and wants to go back and do it again and again. I can't wait to take him! It was an activity for our local FSA. It was so fun to spend some time with some of my best friends and just enjoy the day.

I have been feeling like TRASH today. I am getting that cold that is going around, and I am NOT happy about it. I leave for Hawaii in two days and I am really struggling with leaving my family, and getting everything I need done before I go. I hate leaving them. It hurts so bad. I have been an EMOTIONAL train wreck tonight. I don't know why I am doing this to myself. ;)

I am also sad I won't have time to check blogs or to read, comment, or enjoy until I get back. I am hoping that you all understand, and I can't wait to catch up when I get home!

I hope you all have a fabulous week...I will be posting from the beautiful state of Hawaii though, so stay tuned!

Pardon the Interruption.

Casey here. I'm rudely butting my business in at Kim's blog because most of the gentle people at my place won't get the humor I'm about to lay out there. (Mormon humor, it's simply the best.)
This picture is from the moosh's Barbie as the Island Princess coloring book:














Cody pointed out it looks more like a page from the "Heroes of the Restoration" coloring book. As if there were such a thing, is there? There probably is. But it probably doesn't have princesses in it. I'd have a hard time convincing the moosh that it's FUN! to color Prophets throughout the ages.
(If you're not LDS, sorry, the joke is probably lost on you, my apologies.)
But LDS or not I KNOW you'll all understand this one:














This is my husband washing dishes after he cooked dinner.
REAL! DINNER! It involved chopping and sauteing two different kinds of vegetables.
If I didn't have the constant urge to vomit from my new medication I would totally make out with him.

Right, well, as you were.

Week in Review

I wish I had a photo for today. It was a lazy day for me around here. I photographed a wedding yesterday, it has been a few months, I forget how physically and mentally draining they can be. Every muscle in my body hurts. I hurt in places I forgot I had. Looks like I need to hit the gym twice as hard! ;) I had a young woman come and job shadow me. She was SO nice and it was so great to meet her. Hope she decides to come back and maybe help out a few times this summer with the weddings we are booking like crazy.

Luckily, this week I have only had a few mild headaches, hoping that by avoiding some of the things I think have been triggering my migraines, I can avoid them, or avoid as many as I have been having.

We got a new vacuum today. I made the mistake of letting a vacuum salesman into our home the other day, did you even know such things existed? He left the vacuum for a few days. Seriously like four, and Flav, being the vacuum man around here (it is one of his TWO chores) really liked it. The thing can SUCK...it has some massive sucking power, even I was impressed with, never saw anything clean so powerfully even with a FULL bag. YES, the bag was FULL after going over our entire house. Disgusting. So, the dude was trying to sell it to us for this insane amount of money. Flavio, being a terrific sales-person himself talked him down to an insane amount of money on the other end. We vowed not to repeat that insane price. I think we won. Tee hee. Is it strange to be so excited about a vacuum?!

Let's see. My husband made a boo boo this week. Claiming he talked to me about some MAJOR purchase, which, in fact he did not. Oops. I forgive him. I think. ;) Sorry honey, just have to put it out there for the wold that you, in fact, did NOT discuss it with me. I still love you though!

My kids are weeds. WEEDS I tell you. Emms hair has grown an inch overnight I swear. Leaving me the need to put "pretty ponies" in her hair everyday because it is SO insanely long.

I was able to do some presentations for a local junior high school on adoption this week. Miss Carly had asked me to join her. As I had mentioned earlier, with my crazy busy week, it was the last thing I thought I could fit in/do. I am so thankful that I did. I know there was a reason I had to be at those particular presentations, I felt like we really got through to some of the students there. Three girls in particular, two of which had older sisters who were parenting. It was really neat to get their perspective. Also, one young lady in particular who was SO hard at the beginning of the presentation, SO much attitude, who, by the end had softened and was so utterly respectful as to why we were there. It was great. I love to get them thinking, thinking about the statistics between those choosing to single parent, those who choose to abort, and those who choose to place. The numbers are astounding, I like to see the looks in their faces when they realize, in their own words how "messed up" that is. It truly is messed up. I hope that they can take what they learned this week and always keep it close to their hearts, and share that adoption is a beautiful option in this crazy world who would have us believe otherwise. Thanks for the call Carly!

Well that is about it. Long posts with no photos are hard to get through I know...here, let me dig you up an oldie but goodie...

I call this her "ugly face". Sounds mean, it isn't . I say, "Emm, show me your ugly face." She contorts her features until this is what I see. Usually with a lot less tongue and more teeth. Anyway, this is the face she makes when she is "whining". I hate whining but that is another post entirely. Enjoy your weekend. I am off to bed!

A Baby Story

I have been working on some images from this weekend. I got a call late Saturday night/early Sunday morning (whichever you prefer) at around 1:30 a.m. from my gorgeous friend Wendy telling me she had been admitted to the hospital and was dilated to a six. From my experience with both of my pregnancies that can mean one of two things, the baby is going to be a while, or the baby is coming right away. I rushed on over to the hospital and we did what everyone does. We waited and waited. We waited twelve hours, some of them agonizing to watch my friend endure, some of them amazing, spiritual, and life altering.

I remember the day Wendy asked me to capture this for her. It was almost a year and a half ago. Long before she was pregnant, but she knew that she wanted to be a mother, and that she wanted this day captured "the right way" forever. I feel so honored that she trusted me with this huge responsibility. At times I was really nervous if I could hold up to my end of the deal. I worried I wouldn't capture the "moments". As I have been working on these images, tears are coming to my eyes as once again I feel the spirit of that day. This image in particular says so much to me. Wend was on the verge of needing a c-section, and her hubby and I were just praying and praying and praying so hard for her. She didn't want that to happen. She wanted more than anything to be able to give birth and not have to endure a major surgery after so many grueling hours of labor. This tender moment just catches my breath. I have known Wendy for a long, long time now. Many years, she has been one of the greatest people in my life. I look up to her in so many ways. She has been there for me, and I have seen her grow into this amazing woman. She always was an amazing person, but now this spiritual giant! Her husband is amazing, a match for her in the most perfect of ways, he knows how lucky he is and that to me is a testament of what a wonderful man he is.

Hop, hop, hop.

Could this get anymore classic? Halloween jammies, Halloween tote bag, bunny ears. She is not even my Halloween Baby...this one is:
Had no idea he knew how to impersonate a bunny. Way to go dude. You surprise me every day and keep me smiling. One of my BEST friends and favorite people on the planet. So thankful for you two munchies.

As for me...well I had an interesting weekend, and when I can get around to working on a few photos, I will be happy to share. It was good. Just eventful and LONG. For now, because of the length of my Saturday and Sunday, I need to get to bed. Hope everyone is doing well. I have missed blogging, even if for a few days.

New baby goodness.

How cool to have your birthday on Valentine's? Way.



Holla to the beautiful natural light in this facility!

Seriously, one of the most beautiful shots I have ever seen.
Loved this shot. Loved the logo on the back of the t-shirt. (Edited for content.)
Some of our BEST friends in the ENTIRE WORLD had another little baby join their family yesterday on the day of hearts. Tayvie Noon. She is just oodles of fun. Why is that when one of my friends has a baby, all I would like to do is spend all my time over at their house cuddling the little bundle? I think I can wait a few more days to see her again. Congratulations Tony and Lacie. I love her to pieces!

Happy Heart Day!

Try this next time you have nothing else to do...

Anyway, you can go here to figure it all out. Got the idea from Miss Allie. It takes FOREVER, and is only worth it if you can love your handwriting. I may 'redo' mine. When I have another two hours to spare. Just thought it was super fun! If anyone decides to do it, send me your font via e-mail and we can share it with everyone. Have a fabulous day!

A four year old, and a two year old.

So, lately I have been needing to take photos of my little four year old, and my new little two year old. I haven't. There are certain spots I drive by all the time thinking...that would be a good place to do it. Why haven't I? Too freakin' cold here. Then I came up with this brilliant idea. Why not have someone else take them? Someone with UBER talent and inside, WHERE IT IS WARM?

Hence THESE.

I couldn't be happier. She captured something in my children that only I see, but for some reason can't make appear through my lens. I'm not sure why that is, but for her, I am grateful.

Angie is a very talented photographer. I have been following her work for a little over a year. I remember coming across her work and something about her just kept me going back for another look. She is very inspiring to me, and I only hope to continue to grow in my own photography.

Anyway, thank you Angie for these beautiful captures of my sweet ones. It is appreciated more than you'll ever know.

True Story.

"Are you a princess Emmaree?"
"Can I be your knight in shining armor?"
"Emma-wee a Pincess"
"Ya!"

Oh how I love!

Hi.

How is everyone? Thank you all for your concern regarding my recent bout of headaches. I have received some consultation regarding them. I, unfortunately am the last one to take care of myself, (I wonder what you call laying on the couch all day long with a migraine?). I was hit AGAIN today, HARD. I was fine until about 4:00 p.m. and wham! I just had SO much work to do that I had to come in and work tonight. It probably wasn't the greatest plan, considering I have to get up early for a session. But then again, I am not sure I can even sleep, my head is pounding so hard. Anyway, my plan is, try to figure out what is triggering them, if there is anything, and also I am going to start visiting a chiropractor, in hopes that this will solve the problem. Otherwise? I'm going to demand that there may be a deeper problem to these massive beasts.

Sorry for another post about a migraine. Blech. Just want them to move on so that I can post new beautiful photos of my sweet kiddos...

Hope all is well with everyone! Kiss kiss.

Sneaky Peekers

I rarely mix my bloggy blogs, but since I know Lil's checks this blog...thought I would give you a treat. This may very well be my favorite photo, my favorite session EVER. (So, so sorry for all my other clients (this was also the most recent...so there is still time to top it.)) But seriously, have you ever?

Oh, and another thing, Lil, sorry it took me so long to get your photos posted. Let's talk I have had THREE friggin' headaches that have put me out of commish in the past week! Ug.

Enough with the excuses though! Wasn't this past week just great? Even though I have been in an F-U-N-K...looking back it was a really happy, happy week for me. I can't really pinpoint why. I have loved the snow, I have just enjoyed being at home with my kids, and spending more than one lazy day on the couch with them.

How about you guys?

Feeling Bloggily Challenged

Please note: I did not take this photo, I googled Starburst, and this is what I found. I much prefer Original Fruit myself ;)

So I thought I would share with you what I did today. I ate a Starburst. In fact, I ate about eight of them. Why is this significant? It has been 6.75 years since I last ate a Starburst Fruit Chew. Why? Cause the last time I did, I gorged myself and made myself sick. I know you all have a food you associate with that feeling. Well, I have to say, they were just as good as I remembered. I am happy to report I am feeling no ill effects, but will be careful not to over do it since I would like to enjoy another in the near future.

Moving on, I polished my nails today (on my hands). It has been over 3 years. Yes, I said THREE years since I have polished the nails on my hands. Why? Plain and simple I was bored. I came across some polish while rummaging through a drawer. It was clear, so I thought, "What the heck?" And you know what? Holy self esteem, all day I have been staring at them, thinking how pretty they look all shapely and taken care of. I think I will keep it up, at least for a while.
Why is this significant you ask? Well, pitifully enough, I used to be a Nail Technician. People used to PAY me to make their nails look good, and just like a personal trainer...you only go to one who looks good right? Right. Anyway, I have been neglectful. Of my nails and my blog. So, there you go.

Have a wonderful weekend. Ours is going to be full now...(thanks bishop). But that is okay. I am really looking forward to tomorrow night, we are going out with some friends, and I can't tell you the last time we went out...alone, sans children. I might even lug my camera along for the ride.

Hope all is well.

Have you EVER?

Seriously, just saw this, and think I had a coronary.

CAUGHT!

Seriously, never, NEVER thought this would happen to me. And by my little two year old no less. I left my makup bag (closed) for five minutes. I came back to THIS! I am quite impressed with her ability to put the items in the correct places. Blush-cheeks, eyeshadow-eyes, and of course mascara-"eyelashes". Well, almost. She coated them pretty good though...


OOOOOOOOooooooo have I told you how much I LOVE HER?

Gordon B. Hinckley 1910-2008

Words cannot adequately express the love in my heart for this man, or the joy I am sure he is experiencing reuniting with his sweet wife. He was my prophet, all through my growing up years. I looked to his counsel on many occasions. It was six months before I married my eternal companion that I attended his birthday celebration, and helped nurture a relationship with one of my best friends Wendy, who later joined the church. It was that particular evening that my love for him was strengthened. Even in something seemingly simple as a birthday party, he had this miraculous way of being a missionary.

What a spectacular person he was. How close to our Heavenly Father. What an example of what we all need to be.

We'll miss you President Hinckley!

"2" cute, "2" funny, "2" beautiful, "2" smart, "2" silly, "2" adorable...

I think that "2" might very well be my favorite birthday. For that reason! We spend the whole week thinking of things that they are "2"! OOooooooo squeeeee. I love this little girl. This is her new "give me a big smile" face and I LOVE IT! I could just eat her up! So thankful to have her here, even after her rocky start...just so thankful for her! And as for this man. Can't think of anything cute to say about "30". Hmmm, maybe "30" headaches, "30" gray hairs, "30" inch waist, "30" something, "30" thousand dollars...I dunno I am reaching here. But honestly, he is THE love of my life. I hope you had a good day sweetie! I don't know where I would be without you!
...but seriously, would love that "30" inch waist of yours!

Love, Me!

Hoping to Adopt (Again) Part 4

Meet Ben, Amanda, and Isaac.

It has been my honor to meet this family a little over two and a half years ago as they were beginning their adoption journey. It has been wonderful to watch Ben and Amanda become parents. Amanda is such an amazing mother. When I talk to her, I know that she takes this job seriously and helps me want to be a better mother myself. Ben is an amazing person as well. He is very kind, smart, and caring to his wife and his son. I admire that in a husband.

I would love nothing more than to see this wonderful family grow through adoption. So, keep them in your prayers, and please, if you know of someone who is considering adoption. Consider them!