Wednesday's Printable Words: Ocean

Hello! I realize that Wednesday is almost done, but I wanted to post today's printable art. I've been thinking a lot about the ocean lately. The smell of the saltwater and suntan lotion, the feel of the sand between my toes. Beholding the beautiful colors, the sound of the waves crashing on the shore, there is healing at the beach. I was so blessed to live close to the ocean growing up. I miss it. This image was taken almost 2 years ago in South Florida at Deerfield Beach.

This is printable art. I sized the printable as an 8x10. Feel free to print and share.
**Right click, save image as.**

Let me know what you think :)

The Birds

{The above image was taken at the Miami Seaquarium}

We've been watching a lot of RIO around here lately. My boys love to hear the music and dance around the house. I have to admit that I really like that movie too. Never underestimate the subliminal messages of a cartoon movie because RIO has definitely persuaded me to consider travelling to visit Rio de Janeiro. The culture, the music, the people, the colors all seem so vibrant. Plus, I think it would be really cool to see the Christ the Redeemer statue. 

Watching RIO has made me ponder what birds think. Yes, I realize what I just said. Stay with me :) Birds, were created to fly and to be free. Do they worry or wonder where their food will come from? Do they worry if they'll make it to the south for warmer climate in order to avoid a harsh winter? God didn't create them to worry. He gave them instincts to just know what to do.

I could seriously type out a laundry list of worries and anxieties. I'm the "what if" kinda girl. Well, what if this happens...I need to have an action plan for that. And if that happens then I'll have to do this that and the other.  My list ranges from when will I have time to go grocery shopping, to I have no idea what to get my husband for his birthday, to am I doing an alright job as a SAHM, to how much money should I invest in my business. I looked in the mirror today and realized that worry doesn't make me sound any more wise than the next person and it sure hasn't done a positive thing for the wrinkles that are very prominent in between my eyebrows. Seriously, if Jesus says that we shouldn't worry, then we shouldn't worry. But it's not that easy, is it? I know it's not that easy for me. It takes practice. Worry, for me, is a daily practice. So maybe I'm practicing that wrong thing here. The opposite of worrying about this that and the other is trusting in God. When we trust in God we experience His peace. When we have the peace of God worry is no where to be found. It tries to pop up and if we go into our old practices of worrying, it'll reign in our life. The birds of the air don't worry because God their Creator provides all their needs. Consider how much more valuable you are. The next time you find yourself worrying about something, minute or significant, practice saying out loud, "I trust in You, Lord. No matter what happens I know that You have a plan for me. Your Word tells me that Your plan for my life is to prosper me and not to harm me. I pray for Your Peace to replace the worry that repeats in my mind. In Jesus Name. Amen." Now, please know that I am no expert. I am just sharing with you what I feel the Lord has told me through my quiet time. This spiritual journey is lifelong. I hope you feel encouraged today. 

My Sister's Wedding!

Kaylen is my youngest sister. She has had the most romantic courtship and back story of anyone I know. She loved playing the princess when she was a little girl, but on this day she was the princess. My sister's wedding was BEAUTIFUL! Everything went perfectly right down to the details. The weather was gorgeous, cooler than normal for South Florida. The JoY & LoVe shared between family and friends during this occasion was an experience straight from heaven. The venue, the food, the music, the company, everything was special to behold. I wish we had the ability to relive events like this.
Kaylen had an old friend from school, Lena, photograph her wedding. She did a great job. I didn't want to be in the way, so I snapped some candids and some details here and there. Mostly, my camera was in the bag or in someone else's hands because I wanted to be a part of this joyous day. I didn't want to miss a thing. My boys and I, along with some others tore up the dance floor. Man! We all had a blast! Many blessings to you, Kaylen & Andrew, as you embark on this crazy, but fulfilling journey called marriage and may your tribe increase {wink}! Love to you both xoxo!

Mom & Dad

 So, these two beautiful people are my parents. AND this is what 35 years, 6 children, and 2 grand-children looks like on a couple. My parents are the best. Their love, help, and support for me and my family has been amazing. I am so thankful to have such caring and giving parents. I had to take a few snaps of them before I left South Florida. My favorite place, besides the beach, to shoot in this location is the local country club. That's where we decided to do the mini-shoot. They were doing such a great job of posing I didn't have to direct them much, but I did have to remind them that their daughter was the one taking the pictures. Ha. Ha. Silly kids! Love you both. Mucho. xoxo.

Bridal Session

Isn't she gorgeous! My long-time friend, Christelle, got married yesterday. Her wedding was so lovely. {I've known Christelle since we were 7 years old.} I photographed Christelle's Bridal Session a few weeks ago. I have been anxious to post these and, of course, couldn't until after her special day as to not spoil her gorgeousness.
I am so thankful I was here in South Florida to see her get married and to meet her lifemate, Bruno. I also had the privilege of shooting their engagement session as well. I wish you both all the happiness and blessings for your journey in life together as one. The wedding was beautiful. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of it all.  xoxo!

The Baur Family

We met this precious family when we first moved back here to South Florida. They were and are so welcoming and giving of themselves, going above & beyond to make us feel a part of the community and school. Now, Julian & Brady are buds, and Ashley & I have become close friends over many cups of coffee and playdates. We are so thankful for you guys. God bless The Baurs!

Last Session for 2010

This is my last session for 2010. Finishing the year off with a session with an old friend is perfect. Meet Brooke. She and I went to high school together and then worked together for a few years at a bank. Oh the fun we've had! Brooke is such a sweet person too. It was a pleasure for me to do this photo session. Brooke has 2 little pups, Joey & Beau. They were good little pups for the camera. I would take a few shots and then they'd come over to me and lick my face. So cute! Brooke also has a bf, Dan, who is a great guy. I am so happy they found each other. I feel very blessed to have old friends like Brooke. This session was so fun. Thank you for having me over to your beautiful home. May love, faithfulness, and goodness follow you all the days of your life. Love you, Brookie!!!

Mine!

Merry Christmas! These little men are the treasures of my heart. It was difficult to find the right time for both of them to have a photo shoot, but we finally did it...only days before Christmas I might add. Nana baught these precious matching outfits for Christmas pictures. I love matching outfits! My mom did the same thing for me & my sister, Kendra. It makes life easier for me, but the bonus is that it looks so darn cute too! The location of this session is so beautiful. I discovered that I {Love} Sunbursts. The time of day is so key for natural light photography.
Thank you to those who visit my Blog; I appreciate your time. Looking forward to what God has in store for Karrie Drake Photography in 2011!

Karrie Drake Photography is moving to South Florida!

Hello All! I would like to take this time to pass along some exciting news. Karrie Drake Photography is moving to South Florida. Times and dates are yet to be determined. I will keep you all posted as the Lord reveals the next steps toward own journey toward Florida.

I never thought Beau & I would ever move back to Florida, but God has other plans. He made that very evident to us as we prayed and made this decision to move and begin our life as a family of 4 in South Florida. Please be in prayer for our family as we make arrangements to sell our house and go through this transition.

I am so very sad to say farewell to friends that I've met through church and through the beginnings of my photography business. Missing you already, but know that our door is open to visit. We are thrilled about what God has in store for us...and one of the great things about South Florida, there isn't just one beach :) I'm looking forward to exploring my new grounds for some awesome future photography sessions. Not to mention, getting back my sweet tan!

Love & Blessings,

Karrie

For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. ~Ephesians 2:10

Braggin' Rights!

This past weekend Julian & I traveled down to central Florida to visit with my family. We hopped in my parents' SUV, waved farewell to Dada, and away we went. Poor Dada misses alot during football season. 'Tis the life of a football coach. Honestly, I was a bit worried about the 6 hour road trip with my sweet 2 year old boy, but thank God for naps and Wow Wow Wubzy on portable DVD. This short trip was planned to celebrate the fall birthdays as a family and we took the opportunity to take some pictures too. You'll notice that I am in some of these shots...that is because I handed over my camera and tripod to my sister's friend to capture the whole bunch. (Kelly, you did a great job, girl.) To say that I am proud of my family is an understatement. If I had a dime for every time I heard the exclamation, "There are SIX of you?", I'd be a RICH gal! As always, we had so much fun. For those of you who have toddlers, you know that they provide a good source of entertainment :) I am so glad Julian & I braved the long drive to visit with my family. It was so worth it! I love you guys and miss you terribly. Wish we were closer. Happy Birthday Jess, Dad, and Kaylen. May the Lord bless you and keep you.
In His Love, Karrie