NASCAR Chanps?

Brother-in-law Jay and I having a little family fun.

natalie ::: age 3

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I met Natalie and her parents, Jasmine and Robert, recently for her annual photo session. We've been doing this now for about three years, and it is absolutely amazing how much she grows every year. I have to say, one of my favorite things about photographing children, is seeing how much they grow, and the joy and wonder in their eyes. And Natalie certainly as a smile and a laugh that is amazing.

Thank you Robert and Jasmine for letting me spend such a wonderful afternoon with all of you. And thank you Natalie, for helping me remember how great it is to see the world with such wonder.

Enjoy the photos!

~wj

giving thanks and reaching out

The holidays are here.

For many, this is a wonderful time of love and family. It's a time that is anticipated all year long. A time of laughter, happiness, peace, and gratitude.

And this is what this time of year should be about.

But for others, this time of year can be a bit lonely. It stirs up memories of loved ones we miss, and long to be with us for just one more season.

And while I don't intend to bring all of you down from your holiday celebration, I do think it's important to reflect on all aspects of our lives. To think about those that are less fortunate, or are in a personal struggle -- whatever that may be -- and send warm, positive energy to them all.

Then, go and hug the closest person to you, and tell them how thankful you are that they are near you.

The slideshow above is from a project I did a couple of years ago. It is a study of New Orleans, and many of you have probably already seen the images in some form or another. But I wanted to share it again today, as my heart is a bit heavy, but also in the hopes that it might help us all to slow down just a bit, and remember what is truly important.

Bless you all. I hope your holidays are filled with so much laughter that your sides hurt.

~wj

Small school perfection . . .

This weekend begins the playoff hunts for my alma mater, Millsaps College and my hometown university, Delta State. The two schools share a combined record of 19-1 so far this fall.

I can think of few Christmas presents better than seeing Millsaps win the NCAA Division 3 national championship, and Delta State win the Division 2 title. I love watching big college athletics, but truth be known, I'm a small school guy at heart.

Both Millsaps and Delta State are ranked in the top 5 in their respective divisions, and both are strong contenders to win it all. I'm crossing my fingers and hoping for one of the best Decembers ever!

~wj

Heading out . . .

From the top deck.

sally & brian :::: wedding

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Sally and brian were married a couple of weeks ago in Senatobia, Mississippi and had their reception just a few miles away in Como. This wedding was one of the most genuine and most fun that I've ever attended. We talked before the wedding about doing group shots a little bit differently, so for the shots of the wedding party we pulled a bunch of trucks into and open field to add some light. They were certainly different than shots at the front of the alter !

Sally and Brian -- congratulations ! Thank you both so much for letting me be a part of your day. We need to visit agin really soon.

~wj

carla & chad :::: wedding

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Pics from the wedding!

~wj

carla & chad :::: rehearsal dinner

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I'm back in my gallery today after a long weekend in New Orleans. What a blast! Carla and Chad were married in a beautiful ceremony at the Maison Dupuy in the French Quarter. Everything was absolutely stunning, and I do believe that everyone from North Mississippi and Omaha got a chance to experience New Orleans at its finest. The weather was outstanding, and since Friday was Halloween, the Quarter had the atmosphere of a mini-Mardi Gras.

Chad's parents Sheila and Marv treated everyone to a wonderful dinner and tons of fun on Friday night. The dinner was held at the Bourbon Vieux. The balcony overlooking Bourbon Street was perfect for the festivities -- especially when the parade by the Krewe of Boo came marching by.

I'll be posting images from the wedding soon!


~wj