Saturday, December 27, 2008

Many Thanks

I just want to thank everyone again. I know there are so many people that have come to lend a helping hand. So many friends. I appreciate you all, there are no words.

Jess and Kate will be home today so this is a difficult time for them. They haven't seen the house yet, I guess we'll be reliving it all again as the girls come home. I really appreciate all of you, forgive me if I've not mentioned someone. There are so many people that have helped. Ernie and I feel so lucky to have such amazing friends. There are so many stories to tell from this whole event of such acts of kindness and goodness and I will tell them as I get the time.

I appreciate your thoughts as I focus on the kids so that I can help them adjust. The next couple of days will be hard as we get ourselves situated.

Jennifer, I can't thank you enough sister!!!!!!! Leigh, You ROCK! I havent' had a chance to tell you how much what you did has meant to me. And there are so many others.

Much Love to all!

Friday, December 26, 2008

We Found Christmas!

Merry Christmas everyone! I'm sure most of you already know we had a fire on Monday. I've been desperately wanting to get to a computer so I could let you all know that we are all doing fine. In fact, we are better than fine we are wonderful and it is because of all of our loving friends, neighbors and this amazing community. There are no words for how Ernie and I are feeling right now that can express our gratitude.

We had no idea that while we were all out shopping our house was burning (we're thankful that no one was home, when I think of what might have been, if we were sleeping or the kids home by themselves, I cry instantly so I'm trying really hard not to go to that place) We're just grateful that Ernie got home when he did to save the dogs and well of course the Harley! (Thank God for our neighbors the Prices, Jeff helped Ernie get the motorcycle out of the garage.)

I have so many people to thank and I don't even know how to begin to thank them. The Firefighters, our neighbors, the Red Cross and truthfully this entire community has surrounded us with so much love and support it is overwhelming. Before the flames were even out my neighbors were rushing to our rescue with a place to stay, money, food and clothing. There are no words for how amazing and how proud I am to be apart of this community.

Immediately, our friends like Sheryle Harris, Sandra Cummings, Jessica Kelly, Jon and Leslie Whitacker, Robert and Jennifer Harrison were there to help. All our friends from Ernie's work and his favorite hange out "Scooters" (Formaly known as Buddy's) were collectioning anything they could to help. Bob and Heather Algood gave us their rental house in less than 24 hours we had a place for our entire family and our dogs. (If you've been to my house and know my dogs you know they are beasts.) Thank you so much for working so hard and for giving so much. There were so many generous offers for housing. To all of you I am so grateful. There was such a weight lifted from me when our friends Tim and Donna with Dog Guard came to put in the fence so that Harley and Bo would be contained in the yard. Tim and Monkey, I love you so much! BJ, Heather, Holly and all the kids thank you for working so hard to get it ready. I love all of you.

To Mr. and Mrs H. thank you for opening your home and your hearts to us. I feel such a close bond with the entire Hutcheson family, (Sigh) Andy, Cindy, Aaron and Lindy Jo there are no words for what you mean to us. Carolyn thank you for feeding my poor sweet husband hot potatoe soup after he had stood in the cold for hours, Connie for cleaning and re-wrapping my childrens presents that were saved, The Butlers, The Prices, Ann Marshbanks and Rita, to everyone on our street we love you!

Sandra, Jessica, Sheryle and everyone from The Red Barn you are so dear to my heart. I pray one day I will be able to show you how much your love and support means to me. What you have done for me and my family in this time of crisis can not be measured. I am so truly grateful to each and every person for all of their donations, thoughts and prayers! (small note to Ms. Ju Ju you Rock!)

There are so so so so many people to thank, our friends from BWC, Appleton Harley-Davidson, The Choppin Block, Grace Community Church,Pal's liquor store,Kiddie College,Elements Laser Spa & Salon,and the list just goes on and on! Family and friends out of state as far as Edgerton Ohio and Chicago I have reached out to us.We thank and love you all. It is the generousity of strangers that is most touching. So many people that we don't even know, have never met, have given so much! God Bless you, you are an inspiration!

Ernie and I are so saddened by the loss of our home. I rarely see my husband cry and honestly I don't think he really cried while we watched the house burn but in the hours and days following the fire he has been brought to tears more times than I can count we are so overwhelmed by the love and support we've received. (You all know I haven't stopped crying, eyes are supper puffy, the kids are startin to make fun of me saying stuff like "here she goes again") It has been a hard time for everyone especially the kids. But Ernie and I have both said this has turned out to be the best Christmas of our lives. The true meaning of Christmas is alive in Clarksville my friends. Each and everyone of you is a gift we will cherish forever.

Mohley Crew signing off! Jessie and Kate can't wait to see you tomorrow!

I hope to get the internet tomorrow and I'll be back in action soon! Leslie Whitacker's nomination is the winner for the Giving is Awesome! I'll half to update that more later.

Love to all!!!!! Please forgive me, I know I've forgotten to mention people, I'm so grateful for all of you and everything you've done. Merry Christmas!

Monday, December 15, 2008

Giving is Awesome...

Merry Christmas to all and to all a last call... So to speak. All orders must be picked up by Dec.19th Which is this Friday! (Unless you've made other arrangements with me.)

I will be out of commission as of Saturday Dec 20th until January 5th to enjoy time with my beautiful family during the holidays. So excited. I love Christmas even if my husband does guess his presents every year. (Ohhhh, chaps my hide, that's okay honey, there is still one more surprise I'm sure you don't know about!)

A big thank you to everyone for your patience during this busy season. I hope you and your loved ones enjoy your portraits. I'm so grateful to be doing what I do so please help me to help someone else.

You know someone. You know someone who's experienced a tragedy, is struggling to stay afloat, is raising kids while holding down more than one job, or is volunteering selflessly despite extenuating personal circumstances. You know someone who can't afford custom photography, but who would cherish it this holiday season. You know someone who deserves a year-round reminder of their family's spirit, love, and beauty.

You know someone. I guarantee it.

I want to know who they are, and I want to give them the chance to experience complimentary custom photography -- $500 worth, to be exact. Whether it's canvas or albums, prints for Grandma, or a slideshow to watch over and over, it's in your power to give them the artwork they deserve this holiday season.

Oh, and the best part? The person who nominates the winner receives a $150 print credit. What better reason to show some love could there possibly be, people?

The rules:

* You cannot nominate yourself, and the person nominated must sincerely be incapable of purchasing my services. (Being unable to make mortgage payments for a two-million-dollar-vacation-home in Paris does not qualify as sincere financial need.)

* The nominee must reside in Clarksvile, Tn. Tell me who you know, what they're experiencing, and why they deserve my artwork. Please include a way to contact both your nominee and yourself as well.

* Please comment on this blog entry to let me know you've entered, and e-mail me the full story: classic.creations@yahoo.com


The winner will be announced on Christmas Eve -- get nominating! I can't wait to read all of your entries!

Open your heart to someone this holiday season -- and thanks for giving me the opportunity to open mine.

With love,

Angela
http://www.givingisawesome.com/

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Braving the cold...




I hope to be posting some images from my recent downtown shoot soon. Kate tagged along. She was a trooper braving the cold as we did the usual adventure photography session. We shot on the coldest day ever! The fountains were all frozen. But they made really nice backgrounds!

I'm working hard to get every one's orders out. Can you believe how close we are to Christmas?!

Friday, December 05, 2008

You know they melt...




I love being in love! I really do! (I think I have the most amazing husband in the entire world!) But let me tell you what, so does this woman. (you go girl!) The most awesome part of my job is capturing what two people really mean to each other, young or old, husband and wife, or parent and child. When you get the chance to capture something so special it's a gift. I can't tell you how grateful I am to photograph such amazing people, to offer something so wonderful that you can someday look back at a photograph and remember how it felt to be in that moment.

To all my Army Wives Club Girls! I love you all! You're so special to me! I'm really glad our paths have crossed. You and your families are beautiful!

"J" can't wait to show you guys the rest!

Thursday, December 04, 2008

Time of my life...

with the love of my life! Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving Holiday! I most certainly did. My absolutely wonderful husband swept me away to Vegas to celebrate my big 40! Whew! Can't believe that number it real! (My mother is saying, "Neither can I") But any whoooo, we had us a big and rich time. Without the rich part. No jackpots this trip! None the less, we had a blast! He'll never let me live it down though, walking up and down the strip, me in my heels and him in his steel toe Harley boots. We were beat down. I told you so, he says. And yes, I gave in and we bought some sensible shoes. (I'm a flip flop or heels kinda girl on a normal basis. Kinda crazy I know with all the bending, walking and falling that goes into my adventure photography business. Regan and Stephanie, if you're reading this I know you are totally laughing at me.) Viva Las Vegas, my friends. I love it! Most fun for grown ups that I can think of. (Amazing though, so many people carting around small children there. I was so surprised and totally freaked out! People, please, don't take your kids to Vegas! You know, at least til they are of age.) But Vegas is especially cool when they are decorating for Christmas. Got to see the huge Christmas tree go up as we ate breakfast at the Belagio. Ernie got some new ink at Vince Neil's tattoo shop. Planet Hollywood was pretty cool but only because of the amazing art and photography they display there. As always the food and the shows ROCK! I was officially back to work today so please be patient as I get orders in and out, emails and calls returned. Here we go! Christmas Count Down!

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Happy Birthday to me...



I'll be saying that too in a couple of days. Only I'm no where near the 1 year old mark, or even the 30. (Sigh.) But let's not talk about that.

As Thanksgiving approaches right along with my 40th birthday (AHHHHH!) I've gathered up my thoughts on all that I am grateful for. Top of my list is my wonderful dysfunctional blended, sometimes shaken and stirred family. My adoring husband always keeps me grounded, through our life journey together, between working, running a business, raising a family with steps, ex's and drama a flowing, at the end of the day we always manage to find each other and still be totally in love. Thank you God for my Husband, my rock! (Not the one I fell off of.)

I am so grateful for all six of my beautiful, amazing, healthy children. Love puts the fun in together, the sad in apart and the joy in my heart! I love you all every minute of everyday.

I'm grateful that I have a career and business that I truly love. I'm grateful for my wonderful clients. Thank you for sharing your families with me and for giving me the opportunity to capture sweet moments that you will cherish a lifetime. My craft is close to my heart because it is truly about relationships for me. I want to capture the connection, the bond, the intimacy and the love.

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you! Thanks for being loyal readers! I'm truly grateful.

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Got me a fever...





Baby Fever, that is! (Just kidding, Honey!) But I've had a string of babies and it's been so wonderful. I mean, just look at her! Ah!!!! Sweetness!

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Marry me...




Makes falling off the cliff all worth while... And can I just say NIKON makes a sturdy camera!

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Puppy Love...





Our Doggie Day Spa sessions were a huge success! I enjoyed every minute. (Katie Bug tagged along on the Sunday shoot and had a blast helping out with the puppies.) If you missed it, don't worry! We are already making a plan for January. We will offer another two days of sessions and Valentine's Day Cards!

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

You wouldn't believe it if I told you...





It's been a rough couple of weeks. You wouldn't believe it. But I'll tell you anyway. I'm feeling really behind. So if you are waiting on a sneak preview or an order please be patient! It's been nuts around here. Over the weekend I shot some amazing family pictures which included an engagement proposal. (I hope to post some from that later this week!) While shooting, bent down on a rock hanging from a hillside, the rock gave way with me on it. Picture this. Me falling, camera flying. What a sight. I riped a hole in the butt of my jeans! (So embarrassing! Had no idea until I got home.) Anyway, I escaped with out much injury. Wish I could say the same for my camera.

Next day, I'm walking through my front yard and get tackled by my 80 or so pound doberman puppy. (Harley is a year now and huge!) I twist my ankle and fall to the ground on my knee. Madie has to run get my husband because the pain was so bad I couldn't even get up.

Yesterday after squeezing in two appointments in order to beat the rain I had a million errands to run. Pictures to deliver but my car would not start! (AHHHH! I give up!)

Right now, I'm sick with a horrible cold. I'm blogging from bed and hope to be back in business by tomorrow. That would be a miracle since between the cold, the sprained ankle and bruised up knee I'm pretty much toast right now. But that's my goal. Tomorrow.

Tuesday, November 04, 2008

Holiday Rush!!!!





As the holidays approach life will get busier and busier so don't wait until the last minutue! You don't want to miss out on moments like these!!!!

Saturday, November 01, 2008

Because not all ANGELS are white & fluffy...



Hope you all had a wonderful Halloween! Ours was great, lots of friends and lots of candy! I just loved the way the sun pours into this shot of the girls. And yes, they all just have this much attitude naturally!

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Little Miss M...




Cutest Little Thing Ever!

It's a crazy time of year!!! Please be patient previews are coming as quickly as I can. I have a last minute opening for this Saturday at 3pm if anyone is interested.

If you are hoping for Christmas pictures book your appointment asap!

Monday, October 27, 2008

Let me tell you a story...




Let me tell you a story about love...

about life...


about happiness...


about kindness...


about tenderness....

This photograph embraces all that I am. All that I ever want to be. Two people. In love. Living life. There has been happiness, joy, love, and pain. Take it for what it is, for all it has been and all it will be. I feel blessed to know these people. I feel blessed to have a life that is so different but yet so much the same.

Saturday, October 25, 2008

A little R&R goes a long way...



This is a special post for a very special couple. I just wanted the "J" man to be able to view some of these before he's off again! So glad I got to meet you. I see why Regan is crazy about you. You both are just wonderful people! Thanks for choosing me to be your photographer! Be safe! Come Home Soon!

Thursday, October 23, 2008

Christmas Card Roll Out!!!!!!

I've been hard at work and there are still a few more card designs coming your way. But here is a glimpse of what we have so far. These are high end cards printed with a UV coating. (Cardstock is simular to the giftcard bookmarkers if you have one of those.) We will still offer a few 4x8 single sided cards. Please contact me for pricing. These cards must be purchased in qty of 25.

5x7 Back

5x7 Front Reindeer Design

5x5 Back

5x5 Front Pink Holly

5x7 Front (Back side is beige in color has place one or more photo)

5x7 Back

5x7 Front Mauve Design

5x5 Back

5x5 Front Green Ribbon and Lights

5x7 Front Black Print Design (Back is Black with space for photo and wording)

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Pet Portraits at Doggie Day Spa




This is a limited engagement. I will be at The Doggie Day Spa Oct 26-29th. You can get your pets portrait made at The Doggie Day Spa and Christmas Cards are available starting at 24.99 (24 cards). A vairiety of packages and cards will be available to order. Call (931) 503-BATH (2284) to make an appointment. Limited offer. Portraits will be made Oct 26th-29th Only!!!! Don't miss out! (Grooming appointment is required for portraits.)

Sunday, October 19, 2008

Love: Reunited.



My first Oplove assignment came sooner than I thought. Funny how things just work out! I'm just glad that it was me (and my girls) that could be there. Kendra thank you for calling on me. Enjoy eachother as I know you will. I'll see you later in the week for your R&R session. I'm looking forward to it!

Thursday, October 16, 2008

Just because it's so darn funny...




Today was a day we just had to go for it!!!! I'm so glad we did because we beat the rain! And if for nothing else just because they are so darn funny!!! I love these boys!

Quick Announcement: I have a last minute opening for this Saturday at 10am. So if anyone wants to take it call me asap!!!!!

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Best Neighbors in the world...



You know you have it good if you have a loving husband, healthy kids, a job you love and don't consider work. What more could anyone ask for? But when you have neighbors that are more like family, well, then you can consider yourself just truly truly blessed. My dear sweet neighbor Mr. H. built this beautiful fence for me. It was some pain staking work, I know. He took down a tree, split all the cedar himself. Amazing. I plan on using it a lot on all my up coming sessions. It's just fabulous and it touches my heart. I had to get Madie out there right away for a quick couple of shots. I had made the collage below of her to post anyway!

On location and an adventure...



The greatest thing about my work is that I get the opportunity to meet some really incredible people. This family was so much fun. E had the perfect place to be on location for this session. I'm still reeling over 4 wheeling down to the creek and hanging out with the horses. S you truly have a little piece of heaven over there! Thank you for your generous hospitality. I hope I will see you again.

Sunday, October 12, 2008

Oplove.org

I am so proud and really excited to be apart of this organization. Please check it out. Donate if you are able. Pass it on to someone that would be touched by it's mission. I really love what I do and feel so blessed to be able to do it. Having the love and support of my husband and my family is the only reason that I am able to do it!!!! Follow my heart... Create with such passion... Give a gift...

Here's how it started...

As most of you know, I photograph many military families already. I have a tendency to fall in love with all my clients and their kids. (Some have become close friends. Most I photograph repeatedly.) But knowing what a military family goes through and to be apart of their life is a privilege and it is precious to me. You are all such an inspiration to me. (You know who you are: Amy N., Amy W, Karrin, Merrie, Jackie, Alisha, Lisa, Leslie, Stacy, Sarah, Regan and all the girls in my Army Wives Club.... My list could go on and on.

My amazing husband had read an article on Oplove and told me about it. "Baby, you should do that!" he said. He knew it would be something that I would want to contribute to, in a round about way I already was.

So long story short... After submitting an application and anxiously waiting and waiting to here back. I have been accepted!!!!!!!

I'm really looking forward to being apart of Oplove.org and hope that my friends, my clients and my family will join me in "Giving back to those who ask for nothing more, than to come home."

I love you all!!!!!

Tuesday, October 07, 2008

What are little boys made of...

It just might be snips and snails and puppy dog tails. (Hard to say when all you get is the back of their heads.) But these little boys here are made up of kings, swords and pick up trucks! That's what these little boys are made of.





And Mom's, I promise there are some with more than just the back of their head.LOL.

Best of Clarksville....



Aren't they just the cutest little guys you've ever seen?




Hi Everybody - October is flying by! I've got so much to post and so little tim! So please be patient with me. I also meant to start my campaign a little earlier but better late than never! So, please pass this along to all that you know, "Come visit me at The Best of Clarksville" and cast a vote for your favorite photographer!!!!! Oct 9th, Saturn Dealership, Voting goes 11-7pm and the event is 5-8pm.

Behind the Scenes with Classic Creations