There are no words …
I met Evelyn’s parents through her grandparents, Tom & Theresa. It’s a long story but many years ago I became ordained and consequently have actually performed a number of weddings. It’s more fun shooting them trust me. Anyway, Tom asked me to perform Val and Jason’s wedding. What an honor. We had a great time meeting and discussing marriage. Having really gotten to know them, it was an obvious choice to ask them to model for me. So we had fun on that side as well. Can you tell I’m liking these kids. The story is getting too long, sorry.
Miracle of miracles, they got pregnant. And we got this idea about maternity shoots, creating a look book for mothers-to-be etc. So Val became my maternity model and we let Jason hang out and be the eye candy accessory. Did I mention her pregnancy was a miracle. This was exciting to say the least.
I pitched the idea that “maybe” it would be cool to be present at the birth and add some images to the look book. No hesitation – it was a plan and 9 months later …

I’ve performed a few weddings and shot many more. It goes without saying how honored I have been to be a part of such an important day in so many lives. But being at Evelyn’s birth was extraordinary. Honestly, I think Val and Jason are ok with me. But to be allowed into such an incredible day; Val says, “the most important day”, is humbling. I’m blown away by the experience. Evelyn is going to change so many lives and she started with mine.

I know I say it all the time but its true. I love my brides …
Jessica was such a great “client”. Easy going, fun, relaxed and completely radiant. James was a trooper and man, what a dancer. He seriously can cut some rug. I think he got his skills from his mum.
What I like about these two is there undercover romantic side. Look at this image. It’s one of my faves and you’ll see what I mean:

And then there’s this obvious, public side that is well known ….

It’s fun to watch couples “get ready”. The guys typically are less “enthusiastic” about the event than the gals. Such was the case for these gentlemen. Don’t get me wrong, they were fun but nerves were definately part of the atmosphere!

The gals were less nervouse and more gitty. Tears were held back and there was lot’s of laughter and discussions about “blessings”. I know how comfy I felt being around these beautiful girls and how fortunate I was to be “blessed” by them.

I have lived in Templeton for over a decade and never ever stepped foot in the Presbyterian Chruch across the street from my office. On reflection, I have only done maybe a handful of “church weddings” so it was a real treat to have this opportunity ~ right in my own backyard!

Then there’s the fun!

And the details that make this day THE day …

We are so thankful for our family. Those who live here in California, those in Ohio and those who are in England and Scotland. We also have a brother overseas serving our country in Kosevo. It’s such a blessing to have my mum nearby but wish all our extended family could be all together. Maybe someday both the Sawyer and Tonsky clans could have a reunion. That would be amazing.
We kept the Tonsky tradition of making Pizelle’s, jellies and peanut butter chocolate kiss cookies. It’s a tough job, but someone’s got to do it. We love our family and miss all those we don’t get to see. Have a very happy Christmas!

Whatever you do – don’t watch the news … It’s bad!
We may not always agree on “things” but I think our collective consensus is that this has been a tough year. I like the sign in my friends store, “We’ve laid off DOOM and GLOOM”. In spite of the forcast, looking back I see there is much to be thankful for. And here are the pictures to prove it. I thank God for my family, for the roof over my head and the food on my table. There IS always much more to be thankful for than to be bummed about. If you don’t agree, I suggest you rethink that. Try this …
Give up your burden and give thanks.