Over the Moon Photography by Lauren M. Via

We're Movin' On Up...

2010-08-15T16:03:00.000-04:00

Hey Everyone!!! Over the Moon Photography now has a brand-spankin'-new website! Check it out HERE (http://www.overthemoonphotos.com) and don't forget to change your bookmarks! Thanks so much!

Sweet Baby M. {sneak peek}

2010-08-08T23:21:00.004-04:00

Nikki and Ryan {Sneak Peek}

2010-07-11T01:25:00.002-04:00

Lesley and JR

2010-06-03T20:35:00.002-04:00

As promised, here are the rest of my favorite photos from Lesley and JR's wedding. Hope you enjoy!

Look what I found...

2010-05-27T23:54:00.002-04:00

As I was switching over some files from my old hard-drive to my new one, I came across this photo and it just made me happy. This is from a wedding that I shot with my friend Lisette last summer. I still haven't gotten around to posting those photos because life has been so crazy, but hopefully I can post some more soon! Have a happy Friday!

Sugar and Spice and Everything Nice...

2010-03-17T16:02:00.002-04:00

... are totally the main ingredients in this little beauty! I enjoyed this photo session so very much! I hope you'll love her photos as much as I do... I really love them a lot!!!

Sneak Peek {Sweet Baby "C"}

2010-03-16T00:08:00.001-04:00

Observations {a sunny Saturday afternoon}

2010-03-15T12:28:00.002-04:00

Messinger Family

2010-02-22T10:57:00.004-05:00

This was a fun family to photograph. You can tell that they all have fun together. They laughed a lot and made me laugh a lot! I'm so glad I could do this session, since it seems to be hard to get their entire family together at once! Hope you enjoy!

Do you have juice in your camera?

2010-02-20T16:01:00.005-05:00

Well, do you have any juice in your camera???
Ok, I know this seems like a strange question and one that may be difficult to understand... but click the photo below to watch this video and you might understand a bit more. When you're done, simply hit the "back" button if you'd like to read the rest of this post.

Jimmy and I recently attended a worship leader's conference and were quite surprised when the first speaker was professional photographer Dewitt Jones. Part of his message included this juice story. As he spoke, I continued to be amazed. It was as if God was using Him to speak to me and only me! You see, I haven't had any juice in my camera for a while. Honestly, I'm not so sure I've had any juice in any part of my life lately. Juice, meaning passion, has been drained out of me through circumstances out of my control... but it has been my responsibility to seek a refill for my cup. Now, I'm well aware that this refill could not come from any of my own human attempts, but only by seeking the Spirit through prayer, God's word, and counsel from other believers. I, however, realize now that I have been shutting myself off from receiving a divine refill and I didn't even know it. I have not been allowing my Savior to be my protector, provider and comforter. Yesterday, while listening to all the different speakers, Psalm 46 kept creeping into my mind, along with the lyrics of Christy Nockels song "A Mighty Fortress." I was reminded that life is painful and hard but that God is so very much bigger. He has the power to protect and provide, and He also has the power to create beauty from pain and heartache. I need to put my full trust and reliance on him... in all areas of my life and to allow him to fill my cup. I know that not every day and every mundane act in my life will be overflowing with passion and beauty... but I do know that everyday should be filled with the overflow of the passion and beauty of Christ's love for me. I also know that no matter what storm I am going through, "a sacred refuge is HIS name." This knowledge alone should provoke a passionate response each and every day! It is my prayer that I will learn to live a passionate life that comes out of a grateful overflow of the love and grace lavished upon me by the Father and that I will trust in His great power for my protection, provision and refuge. I pray the same for you.... I hope you will recognize when your camera, cup, life, etc. is running low on juice and that you will seek the divine refill offered to you by the Spirit. So I ask you today, do you have juice in your camera?

New Haircut... Big Change!

2010-02-13T00:55:00.002-05:00

I very rarely post photos of myself, especially when I'm the only one in them. I do, however, want to give you a glimpse of my new haircut. I know this may seem random, but I was just so excited to have a nice change that I thought I'd share it out here in blog-land. I hope this doesn't seem shallow or silly, but I can't tell you how nice it felt to have a moment for myself... especially after such a difficult few months. I really love my hair... and feel really refreshed! I want to give a special thanks to my very awesome, very patient, and very talented hair stylist Khanda at The Studio. If you're in the Harrisonburg area and need a great stylist, you should totally see Khanda! Ok, enough about me.... here's the photo... we'll get back to client posts soon!

Declan's B-day Party

2010-01-26T16:53:00.002-05:00

And... to start the year off right, one more personal post. Here are a few photos from Declan's 3rd birthday party. We celebrated at home with his grandparents, aunts and uncles. We had lots of fun and ate lots of cake!

the year 2009 {in photos}

2010-01-26T15:32:00.002-05:00

Believe it or not, this blog... in fact this whole photography endeavor... began as a way for me to keep family and friends updated on our lives and to provide them with tons of eye candy *aka* photos of Declan. Over the past couple of years, as my photography business developed, the personal posts and photos of Declan have declined greatly. This decline has come much to the dismay of some friends and family. So, in an effort to reward those friends and family who tolerate the client and business side of this blog for a chance at a glimpse of their precious "D"... I have put together a MASSIVE post of photos from the entire year 2009! I don't have photos of all the big moments, they aren't all taken by me, they aren't all in perfect focus, some you may have seen before, some were from a point and shoot, and some are just plain silly... but this is the best I could come up with. We really were hit with our share of difficult times and heartbreaks this past year... but over all we have been reminded of what a blessed life we have. SO, here are some photos of the happier times in 2009... hope you enjoy!

Our Sweet, Sweet Boy!

2010-01-20T14:27:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday to our sweet little man! Declan is such a blessing and a joy. I could not even imagine our lives without him... things would be way too quiet and way too boring. We thank our Father for making Declan special and different... we are thankful for his energy, his love of all things electronic, his constant desire to read more and learn more, for his obsession with music (drums in particular), his attention to the details of our Father's creation, and for his tender-loving heart. Three years old... he'll be grown in the blink of an eye! We'd better savor every second!

HBC Preschool Portraits NOW AVAILABLE

2009-12-17T09:49:00.004-05:00

You can now order prints online! Here are some basic instructions. Click HERE to go to the website. Once you are at the site, you will need to create an account and enter the EVENT KEY that was given to you by the preschool directors. Once you are logged into the event page, you need to click on the Event Category "All Photos." You can then view all of the photos, and you will notice a "buy products" link next to each individual photo. To order photos, you need to click on that link and order the size and quantity of prints you want for each photo. You must click the "buy products" link individually for each individual photo you want to order prints of. When you are finished selecting all the sizes and quantities you want, you will find your total order in your "cart." You may proceed with your check-out process from there. Email me if you have any questions or problems. Thanks so much... enjoy your photos!

HBC Preschool Portraits

2009-12-16T14:08:00.002-05:00

I had the wonderful opportunity to photograph these sweet little cuties while they enjoyed a fun Christmas party at their teacher's home! My ordering system is having a few technical difficulties, but the photos should be available for online purchasing by tomorrow afternoon. There will be several photos of each child to choose from. However, to hold everyone over until tomorrow... here is my favorite photo of each child! (ps... my faves might not necesarrily be what you want to order... but I just picked out the photos that i feel show the most personality of each child!)

Hope you enjoy!!!

ATTENTION HBC PRESCHOOL PARENTS

2009-12-15T11:15:00.004-05:00

*ATTENTION PARENTS*

The individual portraits of your children should be available for viewing and purchasing by no later than WEDNESDAY afternoon. Be on the lookout here on the blog for a link to view your photos. Thank you for your patience.

Meet the lovely Miss Alison...

2009-12-13T21:26:00.002-05:00

This young lady is such a sweetheart... not to mention a great soccer player! I really enjoyed our photo-shoot together, she was so easy to work with! Here are a few of her photos... hope you enjoy!

The Lovely Emily {Senior Photos}

2009-12-09T22:17:00.002-05:00

Emily was such a joy to photograph. She has such an easy-going attitude and fun spirit. She even got into the waterfall at the arboretum for me!!! I'm so excited about the images we captured... especially with those BLUE eyes!!! My last two senior girls have had the most amazing blue eyes... I love it! Here's some of Emily's photos... hope you enjoy!

Alison {Sneak Peek}

2009-12-09T22:14:00.002-05:00

More to come with this little cutie soon... here's the first one I edited. She's so sweet!

Emily's Senior Portraits {Sneak Peek}

2009-11-17T16:53:00.003-05:00

I was so excited right after shooting this photo... I just knew it would be one of my favorites from Emily's session! No one could have predicted, however, my excitement at the surprise even that followed! Just after taking this shot, a horse-drawn carriage strolled into the arboretum, right past where we were standing. A very adorable couple got out, walked over and sat on a bench near the water... and the rest, well, see if you can figure it out!!!

PS... Dear lovely couple,

Congrats on your romantic engagement! I hope you have a blessed future! And... if you happen to see this and if you're looking for someone to shoot your engagement portraits and wedding day then drop me a line! *Thanks*

Kelsey {Senior Photos}

2009-11-16T16:08:00.002-05:00

Ah.... Miss Kelsey... I could go on and on about this young lady who is lovely, talented, and so very sweet! It was so much fun for me to do her Senior portraits... she has a fun sense of style and an up-for-anything attitude! She really worked it for these photos. Did I mention that she is also one of Declan's two "girlfriends" (the other is her sister Chloe)? She is a great big buddy for our little guy and he loves her dearly... that made this session even more special for me! Plus, Declan has gotten all googly-eyed many times while looking at her pictures during my editing process! I hope you all enjoy these photos as much as Delcan and I do!

Couldn't make a decision with these next two...

Black and White:

...or Color:

A BIG "ASK" {For the Love}

2009-11-16T00:16:00.003-05:00

Wow... personal blogging has fallen by the wayside lately. I could say that this is not entirely a bad thing because it means I've had lots of photography work to keep me busy and just shows how God is continuing to bless and grow my photography endeavors. I am so thankful for the ability to actually work whenever I want and actually supplement our finances by doing something I am passionate about. I will say however, that a couple of weeks ago, some serious burn-out was going on with everyone in this household. We've been blessed beyond measure this past year, but those blessings did not come without their fair share of frustrations, disappointments, and heartbreaks. Over the past few months we have really begun to feel the effects of too much work, too many frustrations and too many heartaches. Finally, after getting through a very busy time at the church and serious illness in our household we knew we needed to take a break. So, Jimmy and I sent Declan to my parents house (where he could get a much needed break from Mama and Daddy) and we drove on down to Asheville (where we could get a much needed break from life as we were living it)! Wow, did the Father ever bless us with some mental, spiritual, physical, and emotional refreshement! It was a miricle that we could have the time off (thanks to some well deserved comp. days), that we could afford to go (thanks to minister's retreat rates at Camp Ridgecrest), and that we could spend time together as just a couple (thanks to my wonderfully giving parents). We had many wonderful experiences, but none quite as refreshing as our 3 1/2 mile hike through the mountains! God not only gave Jimmy and I some time to really reconnect with each other, but he also really spoke to me intimately and reaffirmed a message he has been giving to me for some time now. Over the past few weeks, through group Bible study, sermon series, and personal devotion, God has really driven into my heart a reoccurring message... that HE has great plans for my life and I am not allowing him to accomplish anything by drudging through the day-to-day. It is time to seek HIS face and to ASK HIM to do mighty and powerful things in me and through me... whether those things be simply in my marriage, or as a mother, or as a minister! This verse has been revealed to me by the Spirit over and over again over the past few weeks...

"For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. " Jeremiah 29:11-13

All I have to do is look... all I have to do is ASK! There are many areas of my life where I've been afraid to seek wholeheartedly and ask boldly... but things have got to change. So, where is all this going... well, I want to share with you one BIG ASK (among many) that I feel is very important. It is extremely difficult for me to do this because it feels so selfish, but I know it is necessary. There is an AMAZING retreat taking place this year for Christian photographers. It is called "For the LOVE" and it is going to be an amazing time for photographers to retreat, to fellowship together, and to seek God wholeheartedly for His desire for our lives and our photography endeavors. I truly feel that this is something I could benefit from in so very many ways, so I am asking God to open the doors for me to be able to go. I have even entered a contest for a scholarship to go. So, I'm asking you to please join with me in prayer that God would make a way for me to experience this awesome opportunity. Whether I will get to go or not, I know that God can do great things simply by the process of our asking and seeking together. So, I'll end with this...

"Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen." Ephesians 3:20

... and because no post is complete without photos... here are a few from our trip to Asheville....

Kelsey {Senior Photos}--- Sneak Peek!!!

2009-11-10T21:04:00.004-05:00

OK... so this was another one of those totally "rock my socks off" photo sessions! Kelsey is so amazingly gorgeous and completely adorable! Here are just a few photos from her session... I couldn't wait to post them. I have TONS more to work on, and hope to get them posted by the end of the week! Until then, hope you enjoy these....

Sarah Beth and Brett are in L.O.V.E.

2009-10-29T21:57:00.002-04:00

These two wonderful people have been dear friends to me since I was very young! Brett was one of my closest friends and when he met Sarah Beth it was only natural that we would be great friends as well! The three of us have been on countless "youth-group" trips together, wrote songs and traveled in a band together, and have watched each other grow up! I only wish we lived closer and could see each other more often! When Brett and Sarah Beth asked me to do a photo session to celebrate their wedding anniversary I was excited, honored and humbled! They are such a sweet couple. They care for each other deeply, adore one another completely, and are head-over heels in L.O.V.E.
I had such a wonderful time photographing them... I hope you all have as much fun looking at some of their photos!

ps... Brett and Sarah actually own and opperate the coffee shop where we shot some of their photos. If you're ever in the lovely little town of Wise, VA you should totally visit SteelWater Coffee. Sarah Beth's Caramel Machiatto totally beats Starbucks any day... and I hear their other stuff is pretty awesome too!!!

Sneak Peek-- Brett and Sarah Beth

2009-10-08T14:43:00.003-04:00

Justin and Melissa are Married! -- part 2

2009-10-05T15:36:00.002-04:00

I loved every part of Justin and Melissa's wedding day! They are so very sweet and so madly in love! I wish them all the best and pray for many blessings as they continue this new journey through life together! Congrats you two!!!

Justin and Melissa are Married!!! Part 1

2009-09-18T02:17:00.002-04:00

Ok... so I've totally stayed up WAY too late this evening/morning, but it was well worth it! I told myself that I'd just try to get a little editing done this evening, but once I started going through Justin and Melissa's portraits from their wedding day I quickly became fully entranced! I just love these photos so much because of the overwhelming emotion that is exuding from these two lovebirds! Justin and Melissa decided to do a first look before the ceremony and then gave me almost a full hour for portraits of just the two of them! I'm so glad they took this special time out to really enjoy some quiet moments "alone" before becomming completely wrapped up in the excitement of the rest of the day. What a blessing to have captured such intimate moments for these two to remember forever! So, with all that said... here are some of Justin and Melissa's wedding day portraits. More from their wedding is yet to come!

Meet Edmund Jack.... and his Mama and Daddy too!

2009-09-03T22:38:00.002-04:00

What a neat opportunity it was to photograph little Edmund Jack and his parents Tabitha and Steven! Edmund is the first grandson of our great friends Jack and Sandy. It was such an honor that Sandy asked me to do this session while her family was visiting this summer! Hope you enjoy all the cuteness... there's plenty of it to go around!

Colella Family

2009-09-02T00:05:00.003-04:00

I had such a fun time photographing the Colella family. Their two sweet kids were so kind and fun to be around! I also just adored the love between parents.... and their love for their children. I'm so grateful for the opportunity to spend some time with them and to photograph their family. Hope you enjoy these photos as much as I do!

Sneak Peeks.....

2009-08-12T22:40:00.002-04:00

I know I have been slow to post on the blog lately... but I've been staying super busy with work and life. Several photo sessions and weddings, packing and moving, closing on our new house, painting, mission trip.... and most recently I was stranded out of town with no computer because of car problems....

So, here is a little sneak peek at what is to come... I'm hoping to finish up lots of editing soon! hang in there with me!!! Thanks!

The Colella Family *sneak peek*:

Justin and Melissa's Wedding *sneak peek*:

Dawn and James are Married! --- HUGE POST

2009-07-31T01:16:00.002-04:00

I had a great time shooting this wedding! The food at the reception was the best I've had so far (hence all the food photos). I love so many of James and Dawn's photos that I had such a hard time picking favorites.... so I posted TONS of photos! Hope you enjoy them all!

Long time... no post.

2009-07-10T09:30:00.003-04:00

Sorry that it has been so long since my last post. I have been completely OVERWHELMED with the amount of work that is piling up for me. I never expected to stay so busy with my photography. I am, however, not complaining at all. I feel so very blessed to be doing something I truly am passionate about. I'm so excited about all the upcoming sessions and weddings I have to post. It is hard for me to get editing done while looking after two kiddos(one is mine, one is a friend's) all day, keeping my household in some sort of order, leading worship with my husband, and so and and so forth.... However, your photos are a huge priority on my list and will be done as soon as possible. So, with all that said, please be patient with me as I continue to work tirelessly to get all your photos edited. To end this post, I want to share with you a video that truly touched my heart this week. I know many of you may be tired of my constant going's on about Christy Nockels. I promise you that I am not obsessed with her... however I do want to be her when I grow up! haha! Seriously, I truly do believe that God has ordained her to speak directly to me through the Holy Spirit on so very many occasions. I appreciate her willingness to share her heart through this video... and I pray that it will speak to some of you as well!

Being A Mom {Part 2} from christy nockels on Vimeo.

Sweet Baby "M"--the full post

2009-07-01T21:14:00.002-04:00

This little guy is so very special! Not that all little bundles of joy aren't special... but Matthew has a story to tell about his little life. He was born with a serious infection and had to be hospitalized for quite a while. His parents were so devoted and so hopeful during such a difficult time... their spirit was an encouragement to all of us who know them. It is such a blessing for Matthew to finally be home with his mama and daddy. He is now a healthy, happy, sweet little boy. Matthew's parents are advocates for Compassion International... an organization that provides for basic needs of children in less fortunate parts of the world. Had Matthew been born in one of these countries he certainly would not have survived. They are passionate about helping all children receive the basic necessities and care we are so blessed to have here. After talking with Matthew's parents I decided to make a huge change with my business. Now, 10% of all my profits will be going to help Compassion International. Jimmy and I already have an adopted child through World Vision, but this is a way that I can give back and glorify the Father through my business. Thanks to Matthew and his parents for being such advocates and for reminding us how blessed we truly are. He was such a joy to photograph. Hope you enjoy the rest of his photos!

Dawn and James-- Sneak Peek!

2009-06-24T23:46:00.003-04:00

Hope you enjoy these... more to come!

New Design?

2009-06-19T00:22:00.003-04:00

Hey everyone... I decided on a whim to change up my blog design a little bit. I've been wanting to do some work on it for a while... but finally went for it. So, I need some honest opinions from YOU! What do you think of the new design? Like it better... worse than the old design? Please click on the "comment" button at the bottom of this post to let me know what you think! Thanks so much!

ps... don't be surprised if you see more changes taking place soon... I won't rest until I'm completely satisfied with the new look!

And because I don't like to post without any photos... here are a few of my recent favorites of my sweet little D. As soon as the busy work season slows down, I will get lots more family photos posted!

Stephanie and Shawn are Married!!!

2009-06-16T09:13:00.002-04:00

Congrats to Stephanie and Shawn! Thanks for letting me be a part of your special day!

Sneak Peek--- Sweet Baby "M"

2009-06-11T22:27:00.004-04:00

I was in baby heaven yesterday during this session. I had such a wonderful time photographing sweet baby "M". Here are just a few that I have edited. More to come soon. I especially love the first one... the airplane mobile is so fitting since both of his parents are pilots. Hope you enjoy! I can't wait to edit and post the rest.

Shawn and Stephanie--- Sneak Peek!

2009-06-09T22:35:00.002-04:00

Just a little teaser from a recent wedding... more to come soon!

Hope and Grace

2009-05-31T00:20:00.002-04:00

These lovely little girls could not have been given names any more fitting of their personalities! I was so blessed and honored to capture a few photos of them before their dance recital last weekend! They were such little dolls! I even stayed to watch their dance performance... and it was SO VERY CUTE! They did a wonderful job! Here are a few photos from our fun mini-shoot!

Polka-dots, Tutus, and Tap Shoes!-- Sneak Peek!

2009-05-26T14:53:00.002-04:00

Polka-dots, tutus, and tap shoes... what more do you need? I was in heaven shooting these two beauties on Saturday afternoon. These two lovely little ladies had a big dance recital and their Mama's asked me to do a little mini-session before the main event! I even stayed to watch them dance... they were wonderful! Here are just a couple photos... more to come soon!

Relay for Life

2009-05-26T14:27:00.002-04:00

A few weeks ago we were excited to show support for this year's Relay for Life. It is hard to find someone who hasn't known or loved a person with cancer. This cause has grown increasingly important to our family after loosing my grandfather to cancer and after having so many close family and friends who are still battling the illness. I just want to commend and show appreciation to our church's relay team for this year! All together HBC has raised more than any other organization in Harrisonburg and Rockingham Co. bringing in OVER $14,000. What a wonderful opportunity to raise support and awareness for such a great cause! Special thanks go to Laura Logan for organizing the event and to the brave and beautiful Andrea Lohr, who, while battling cancer herself, is continuously battling for this cause! Please continue to pray for Andrea and Carol as they fight this disease. Finally, here are just a few photos from the night... before the huge lightning storm broke loose!

Super Cute Kiddos-- Playing in the Park!

2009-05-24T00:55:00.003-04:00

I had tons of fun photographing this sweet brother-sister duo! They really hung in there with me on a very hot and humid morning last week! Declan loves playing with these two, so he tagged along as well. This particular morning was quite a handful, but such a joy! Thanks to my great friend Lisa for asking me to capture this fun day at the park with her kiddos!

Super Cute Kiddos-- Just a Peek!

2009-05-18T09:18:00.004-04:00

Just a couple photos from a fun session on Friday morning! More to come soon!

I Got a Bag of CHIPS!

2009-05-14T22:18:00.002-04:00

I know this may seem like a really strange and random post... but I'm excited about my "Bag of Chips!" Jimmy is the worship leader and media director at our church... and as a member of the staff, he attends weekly staff meetings. Our pastor, Jack, does a great job of encouraging and edifying his staff for their roles in ministry and he has a fun way of doing so. For an exceptional job well-done, he gives each staff member a bag of chips... I guess he's saying he thinks they're "all that... and a bag of chips???" Anyway, although I'm not technically on staff, I do lead worship with my husband on Sunday mornings. And this past week, Jack gave me an honorary bag of chips for excellence in worship leading! What a neat and special gift... not the bag of chips itself... but what it represents! I'm so grateful to be a part of a body of believers that is consistently building up and encouraging one another, and am so blessed to have a pastor who recognizes others' gifts and encourages them to continue giving their best to glorify the Father. If you're totally bored or weirded-out by this post, I apologize. However, if anyone knows me, I don't take compliments well... so blogging about my bag of chips is my way of showing my appreciation for Jack's support and my way to show genuine gratitude for the gifts God has given me and that he allows me to use them for His glory!

Recent wedding-- Staunton, VA

2009-05-09T12:57:00.002-04:00

I recently helped shoot a wedding with local photographer, Don Aittama. He and his wife go to our church... she is also a photographer and shoots weddings with him. However, she injured her hand and was unable to work... so I stepped in to help Don out. Here are a few images from April and John's sweet, small, intimate wedding in Staunton, VA.

More Fun Family Photos!

2009-05-01T22:30:00.002-04:00

Hope you enjoy the rest of the photos from my fun session with this awesome family! Their little guy will be turning 1 year old this weekend! Happy Birthday little one! He's having an "Old McDonald" birthday party... so we went out to the farm of our friends, the Lohrs. Thanks so much to them for letting us use their farm for photos! If you're in the Harrisonburg area this fall, be sure to check out the fun fall festival at the Lohr's farm.

The Creator's Handiwork--April 29, 2009

2009-04-29T15:17:00.002-04:00

I think that God must have had a woman's heart in mind when he decided to create flowers. If not every woman's heart, then certainly this woman's heart. I just love the feeling of joy that comes over me as I watch how the beauty of fresh flowers can brighten an entire room! I'm especially grateful for these flowers I received as a birthday gift from my great friend Alissa today. I've been having a hard week... and have had a crummy attitude. I woke up to a gloomy, rainy day... nothing was going right and don't even ask about the battle I've had with egg cartons today! Anyway, such a simple and sweet gesture from a friend made such a huge difference in my attitude. I've been feeling overwhelmed with anxiousness and worry about so many different things... but God used the beauty of his creation to remind me of His promises in His Word.

From Matthew 6:

²⁵ “That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn’t life more than food, and your body more than clothing? ²⁶ Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are? ²⁷ Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?

²⁸ “And why worry about your clothing? Look at the flowers of the field and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, ²⁹ yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. ³⁰ And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?

³¹ “So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ ³² These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. ³³ Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.

³⁴ “So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.

*****

I pray that God will continue to remind me of His promises... so I can stop worrying and focus on serving others and bringing glory to His name!

ps... I just want to take one more second to thank all of the other friends and family who have, in so many ways, made my birthday a blessing! Love you ALL!

Back in the swing of things....

2009-04-25T21:09:00.004-04:00

I'm finally back to shooting again. I'm trying to move on with life and get back to normal... whatever normal is. Today I had such a FUN time with this sweet family. Here are a few preview photos from our session. I will post some more as soon as possible! Also, I just want to give a special thanks to my great friend Robin for assisting me during the session today! She was such a BIG help and was lots of fun!

A Life Honored, A Life Remembered...

2009-04-23T23:34:00.004-04:00

As many of you may know, my family has been struggling with my granddad's cancer for the past few months. To read more about his story you can see this previous post. On Saturday, after a brave battle, my granddad, Edison Woodrow Branson took his last breath in the arms of my mother and was immediately welcomed into the arms of our SAVIOR, JESUS! For his funeral we had the blessing and challenge of putting together a video of photos to capture his 90 beautiful years. He lived more history than we could even imagine. He received several presidential commendations and awards (including the bronze star) for his service and bravery in WWII. He loved the Lord, loved his family and loved his country. I hope this video expresses that! Feel free to watch if you'd like... but just know that the video is nearly 10 min. long and may take a minute to load. Seems like a long time, but for those of us that knew and loved him, 10 min. is such a brief glimpse of a 90 year life of dignity and grace!

ps... several of these photos were taken by me at his 90th birthday party... and several others were taken by my great friend Lisette at my sister's wedding. I especially want to thank her for giving us some of the last images of my granddad. Things like this really help put into perspective just how special the gift of being a photographer really is.

... also, i don't know why the audio cuts out near the end of the video... sorry...

Edison Woodrow Branson 03.14.1919-04.18.2009 from lauren via on Vimeo.

Hello LOVE!--- My big surprise!

2009-04-15T21:48:00.004-04:00

I would first like to apologize for the long lapse in posting. Many of you know that our family has been hit hard over the past few weeks. My grandfather's condition is continuing to worsen and he is in need of your prayers. Then, on top of things, Jimmy's grandmother passed away a little over a week ago. We have been traveling all over to be with our families... on top of taking care of life here in Harrisonburg (our family, our home, our jobs, our ministries). However, we did find one brief, but wonderful moment of escape during our tough few weeks. After spending two weeks at my parents' home helping to care for my grandparents, Jimmy whisked me away on a surprise get-away! We drove all the way to Charlotte, NC, dropped Declan off with Jimmy's sister and her husband... and then hit the road again. I had no idea what we were doing until we began to walk into the Bojangles Arena! Then, I looked up at the screen and this is what I saw....

By this point, I was already thrilled. I love Chris Tomlin and was so excited to be at his concert. But, a bigger surprise was yet to come. I discovered that on this select date, none other than Christy Nockels would be appearing with Chris Tomlin! If any of you know me well, you know that she is my favorite singer and worship leader EVER! I have admired her and been blessed by her voice for years! Her music has comforted me in times of need, helped me rejoice in my Savior and has helped me to bring others to the throne of Christ in musical worship! I was so blessed by this night of worship! What a much needed refreshment for my weary soul!

And Finally.... The biggest surpise of the night!!!!........

Jimmy actually walked me down backstage and took me to meet Christy! She was so gracious... especially as the emotions of my tired heart spilled out! I could not have been more excited and more humbled in the presence of such a true worshipper. God has blessed me so richly. He has shown his great love to me through so many people.... through my wonderful husband and through a complete stranger that I have admired for years. Although it seems that the world around us is so broken... I can rest in knowing that my God is good... and that He Loves ME! He truly cares for me and delights in little things that bring joy, peace and refreshment to HIS children! Glory to HIS name!

Special thanks to Jimmy for his thoughtfulness and for showing Christ's love to me. Also thanks to Emily and Seth for helping make this surprise possible! I LOVE you all!

Featured!!!

2009-04-13T15:40:00.005-04:00

Today my work was featured on the blog for I Do Originals. They are an amazing design company that creates every custom detail you could want for your wedding. They also do some great graphic design work. I really appreciate their support! So... if you have a chance, check out their post about Over the Moon Photography!

The Creator's Handiwork

2009-04-03T14:08:00.002-04:00

I'm sorry for the long break in posting, but as many of you know my life has been quite busy lately. I have been visiting my family and helping to care for my grandfather who has taken a bit of a turn for the worse lately. Thanks so much to all of you who have sent me emails, messages and comments of encouragement. My family and I greatly appreciate your support and prayers. My grandfather is still hanging in there with strength, grace and dignity! I left my parents' home yesterday as part of a surprise that Jimmy had planned for me... a little escape from real life. I can't wait to tell you all about it... but its so cool I'll have to save it for its own post. Until then, I have decided to start a new series of photos called "the creator's handiwork." I have been feeling challenged to be more aware of and to point more attention to God's working in my life in the big and little things. I tend to get so caught up in the day-to-day that I sometimes take His beauty for granted. It is my prayer that I will never lose sight of the the beauty our creator gifts us in so many areas of life. So, for the first post... I was so blessed by a beautiful sunny day last week... after so many days of rain. The clouds floating in the bright blue sky were especially lovely! So here they are... evidence of the Creator's Handiwork!

Vroom!

2009-03-21T22:14:00.002-04:00

Declan got these really neat cars from Jimmy's dad the other day. They have a really modern design, and they roll great! Plus, they come apart like blocks... and can be mixed and matched. Declan sat in the kitchen completely content while I cooked dinner the other night. If anyone knows D... its a miracle if he sits anywhere doing anything for longer than a minute! He was so sweet sitting there, that I had to stop cooking to take a few photos.

An Inspiration

2009-03-21T16:45:00.002-04:00

This past weekend we celebrated my Granddad's 90th birthday. This man is such an amazing inspiration to me and to everyone who knows him. He has seen more life and survived more world events than we can even conceive... including his service in WWII. Just last month, he discovered that he would be facing the biggest battle of his life... lung cancer. My granddad has always been unbelievably healthy and young for his age. He has never had any serious illness... and is now facing being sick for the first time. However, he is facing it all with dignity and grace... and cares about the well-being of my Grandmother and my family above his own self. I have always appreciated his gentle spirit, kindness, warm acceptance, and spiritual guidance. I felt so blessed to celebrate such a wonderful life and look forward to continuing the celebration in the future. I hope to post more photos from his 90th birthday party later on... but until then, here's one photo that I just pulled off my camera!

Katie and Derek are Engaged!

2009-03-14T01:57:00.007-04:00

I had such a very fun time photographing Katie and Derek's engagement session. They are such a sweet and fun couple... and they were so willing to try things that were very different for them! Thanks so much, you two, for all your cooperation... and for being such fun!

PS... One of the locations I used for this shoot was the Earth and Tea Cafe . I LOVE this place. It has such a unique look... and their menu is great! They serve an extensive list of teas and very delicious food! If you're in Harrisonburg, you should definitely check it out.... and maybe you'll see me there! Thanks so much to the cafe for letting me shoot there!

Katie and Derek are Engaged!--- Sneak Peak!

2009-03-09T00:52:00.003-04:00

I had such a wonderful time with Katie and Derek today! Here are just a few photos from our session! I will post more as soon as I'm finished editing... but for now, here's some to hold ya' over!

Happy birthday to my MOM!

2009-03-06T21:51:00.004-05:00

"She is clothed with dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future. When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness. She carefully watches everything in her household and suffers nothing from laziness. Her children stand and bless her. Her husband praises her: 'There are many virtuous and capable women in the world, but you surpass them all!' Charm is deceptive and beauty does not last, but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised. Reward her for all she has done. Let her deeds publicly declare her praise."

Proverbs 31: 25-31

My mother is the most selfless person I know. She is beautiful inside and out! I am so proud to know her and to have been raised by her. I pray that she is blessed beyond measure as she celebrates her birthday this year!
Love you Mom!

Declan's need for speed....

2009-03-01T23:11:00.004-05:00

A few weeks ago our church held a model car race... called the "Awana Grand Prix." Declan had so much fun building and painting his car with his daddy! He also really enjoyed the race! What a fun experience for my little guy! I think Jimmy had fun too! haha! Here are a few photos from the night.

I needed to see this tonight!

2009-02-27T23:22:00.002-05:00

Robin and Jeff's Wedding!

2009-02-25T16:43:00.004-05:00

I posted a little sneak peak a few weeks ago... but I've finally finished editing all of the wedding photos! Hope you enjoy!

ps... i LOVE feedback, so please hit the comment button at the bottom and let me know what you think... all comments are appreciated!

Congrats again to Robin and Jeff!

I know a shot of the fridge may seem random... but I was excited to see what was on the fridge! I actually designed Robin's save the date cards, invites, response cards, and background for the programs! Just thought it was neat to see my work displayed somewhere on the wedding day! And for those of you who are interested, I hope to be getting a website up soon with more of my print products for you to look at and purchase!

LOVE her hair and hairpiece!

Robin and Jeff chose to do a "first look" before the ceremony. The above photo is her getting ready to see Jeff for the first time that day! It was so neat to watch their reactions as they were able to enjoy some private time together before the business of the day! This also allowed us to get some great portraits of just the two of them!

I had a hard time taking photos during the first dance... I cried through the whole thing!

Seriously, this family can DANCE! They were so much fun!

I had to put in this photo of Robin with my little guy... they love each other dearly! So sweet!

Taking a break for something fun and frivolous!

2009-02-23T20:38:00.002-05:00

Editing has gotten a bit overwhelming over the past couple of weeks. Now, I am not really complaining... I am SO thrilled to be getting more bookings and to have more photos to edit... its better than not having any work at all. However, I decided to take a break for something a little silly and fun. So... here it is, my fictional album cover... maybe one day it will be the real thing! :O)

If you're interested in having a little fun of your own, here's the how to:

1 - Go to "wikipedia." Hit “random... Read More”
or click http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:Random
The first random wikipedia article you get is the name of your band.

2 - Go to "Random quotations"
or click http://www.quotationspage.com/random.php3
The last four or five words of the very last quote of the page is the title of your first album.

3 - Go to flickr and click on “explore the last seven days”
or click http://www.flickr.com/explore/interesting/7days
Third picture, will be your album cover.

4 - Use photoshop, picnik, gimp, or similar to put it all together.

So I'm not the only one...

2009-02-18T15:41:00.004-05:00

Ok... so I feel so very bad for Rachel for having to deal with this mess.... but I'm so very glad to know that I'm not the only one who deals with things like this....

Jace's Mess

WARNING... some body parts are mentioned in this video.... but it is completely innocent!

... and good for her for being able to turn these moments into fun memories.

Now, since my little one also decided not to nap today... I need to get off the computer for now!

Holden and Hope--Part 2

2009-02-16T23:21:00.002-05:00

Here are some more photos from my FUN session with this awesome brother/sister duo!

Special Promotion-- Ends Feb. 28, 2009

2009-02-13T23:29:00.004-05:00

That's right everyone! In honor of Valentine's day, we are offering a special deal until the end of February! The first 10 of you to book your wedding... or ANY portrait session for any future date will receive 15% off the original price. Just to clarify... YOU MUST BOOK BEFORE FEB. 28, but the actual session or wedding may take place at any future date! Contact us ASAP to be sure you don't miss out on this awesome deal!

laurenvia@gmail.com

In Honor of LOVE...

2009-02-13T17:06:00.002-05:00

BE SURE to check out the blog TOMORROW/VALENTINE's DAY for a huge announcement! You won't want to miss this opportunity! We will be offering a special promotion in honor of love!

1 John 4:19 "We love because HE loved us first."

Awesome Session- Sneak Peek!!!

2009-02-11T23:45:00.003-05:00

On Sunday I had the opportunity to photograph this awesome brother and sister duo! We walked all over downtown Harrisonburg and found tons of cool places to shoot. These two are so very sweet and so much fun! This was definitely one of my very favorite sessions ever! Thanks so much for letting me walk around and take tons of pictures with you! Here are just a few photos from the day... I have so MANY favorites... and tons left to edit... its going to be hard to narrow these down! Enjoy this sneak peek!

2009-02-11T16:12:00.002-05:00

For the first time in four years we have cable in our house.... thanks to a promotion from Comcast we aren't even paying for it.

Anyway, Declan let me watch the Rachael Ray show instead of Sesame Street today. Boy, was I shocked at what I saw! I thought I'd enjoy some time with a fun tv host and learn about some awesome new food ideas... but today was so much more!

Go to this link and watch this PLEASE! Seriously, God has a way of putting our lives into perspective. As much as I tend to doubt, to worry or to complain, I truly am blessed... and should never take for granted Christ's teaching and sacrifice, God's grace, love and provision, or the Holy Spirit's guidance and peace! Please pray... then watch... then act!

Matt's Story

Chavez Boys-- Portrait Session

2009-02-09T22:00:00.003-05:00

Here are some more photos from my session with the four Chavez boys! They are such sweet little boys... and I can't tell you how good they were for this photo session! Thanks again for making it so fun to take your pictures!

the evolution of a smile! (above)

Shortly thereafter... he was done smiling... I think it was about time to go home! An hour is a long time for little boys to have their picture taken.

Seriously!

2009-02-08T11:54:00.002-05:00

Snow all week + 60 degree weekend + FOUR young boys + photo session =

this....

I had such a great time yesterday afternoon! Thanks so much to the Chavez family... and to these great boys for being so patient, so cooperative, and so VERY much fun! Here's a little sneak peak of the boys! More to come soon!

Things I've Done...

2009-02-06T16:44:00.002-05:00

I saw this on my friend Chantry's blog... thought it was cool, so I decided to put it on my blog as well. What a neat way to learn about other people... and to remind us all that its a huge world with so much to do... life is too short to sit around doing nothing! Feel free to copy/paste this into your own blog... just highlight the items you've accomplished!

1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band-- if singing in a band counts
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland--I'm going to say that DisneyWORLD should count
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables--I used to help my grandparents in their gardens
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language--spanish, but not fluently
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing--used to lead climbing trips for a camp
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant--bought food for a homeless person
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Gotten flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check-- once when I was 15...never again!
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt-- with help
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone - lots of fingers and toes... i'm a clutz!
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle--if the back of my Dad's dirtbike counts
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life... was a lifeguard, haha!
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee

Sunny Day Portrait Special!

2009-02-04T22:26:00.003-05:00

SPECIAL EVENT...
Don't miss it!

For two days only, this Saturday and Sunday (FEB. 7-8), I will be offering $25 portrait sessions. The weather is going to be sunny and warm... so in honor of this unseasonable opportunity I'm offering this special deal to ALL who are interested. I will be booking 1 hr. mini sessions on Saturday and Sunday afternoons! Please contact me ASAP if you are interested!

laurenvia@gmail.com
540.998.3725

Robin and Jeff are Married! --- sneak peak!

2009-02-04T21:39:00.002-05:00

Robin and Jeff were married this past Saturday in Waynesboro, VA. I've know Robin and Jeff and their family and friends since college. My husband and I also served as Robin's campus ministers at Radford Univ. It was so wonderful to be around this awesome couple and fun group of people all weekend! Their wedding ceremony was beautiful and the reception was so lively and fun! There's never a dull moment when these people are around... I've been blessed to know them and was blessed to be able to photograph their special day! Congrats Robin and Jeff... I hope you're having a great time in London! Here's a little sneak peak at some of the photos I've edited so far... more to come soon!

Cara and Tim's Wedding

2009-01-29T20:52:00.002-05:00

I know its been a while since the wedding... but I've finally gotten time to go through the very few photos I was able to take. These are literally about ALL of the photos I have from my sister's wedding... but aside from being the matron of honor... singing in the wedding... and chasing a toddler around all weekend... there wasn't much time for anything else! I also didn't have an external flash or any other lenses, so I was limited in what I could shoot. I did, however, have a wonderful time at the wedding... the ceremony was beautiful, I cried ALOT! The reception was sooo very much fun! Congrats again to my lovely sister and new brother! I love you both! Hope you enjoy these photos!

Declan and "Bubba"

the men of the Wicks family

he caught the garter... she caught the bouquet... hmm...

don't ask... or actually, just ask Cara and Tim...

the lovely and talented Lisette at work

awe... look at these two lovebirds... Casey and Rachel...

last dance... Declan, Nana, and Pops, song-"Baby its Cold Outside"

...and the last photo of the day turned out to be my very favorite!

Our little Model!

2009-01-28T22:33:00.003-05:00

I seriously LOVE this little guy! What a little "HAM"! He totally posed for this picture!

ITS COLD!

2009-01-28T22:23:00.003-05:00

As a member of the OSP network... I have the opportunity to learn about and view the work of photographers from all over the place! I've noticed that there seem to be tons of photographers from VERY warm places! It must be so nice to never have to worry about cold weather before an event or photo shoot... I'm checking the weather right now for my wedding this weekend... the high will be a lovely 34 degrees! Anyway, I look forward to learning how to make the most of the cold winter months and I hope to have tons of fun this Saturday! At least it will be sunny and bright!

And just for fun... I left my water bottle in the car the other night... when I got in the next morning the whole thing was frozen solid! After several hours inside, there was still a pretty large hunk of ice inside! I don't know why, but I thought it made for an interesting photo! Thanks for bearing with me on this random... and possibly ranting post!

thanks to my hubby Jimmy for humoring me long enough to hold up the bottle so i could take a photo!

Declan's Birthday- Part 2

2009-01-28T21:57:00.003-05:00

Here are a few more photos from Declan's actual birthday. After a trip to McD's he also got to eat ice cream for dessert! Believe me, eating like this is NOT the norm... but it was his special day! He does randomly ask for "ice beam" after meals now.... sometimes even after breakfast or before he goes to bed! What a silly little guy!

ps... i still don't have any photos from his party... but i'm workin' on it...

Daddy tried to help him not make too big of a mess...

what a happy boy... must have been some really yummy ice cream!

Happy 2nd Birthday Declan!!!

2009-01-20T18:55:00.003-05:00

Today is our little man's 2nd birthday! We had a big party for him on Saturday, complete with a Rocket Ship cake and a Moon cupcake for him to dig into! He had a great time playing with our friends from church and with our family that came to visit! Unfortunately, I was sooo very busy getting things ready for his party that I forgot to bring my camera along. I took a few photos with my parents camera and I know my dad took some others. Hopefully I can get some of those photos from them soon and post them up on here. I did, however, take a few pictures of our little guy today! He is such a blessing... and I'm so excited to see what this new year with him brings!

he's drinking chocolate milk at mcD's today... his request for his birthday!

thanks Jimmy for taking this photo of me and my little birthday boy... since I'm the photographer(and camera hog) in our family, I rarely get to have any pictures of myself with "D"

playing with his star balloon from his party on Sat.

such a happy little guy... i guess he's not gonna' be so little for much longer...

2009-01-18T20:59:00.002-05:00

Here are my favorites from the second half of Robin's photos... that I finally finished editing today!