After Maddie passed away I didn’t know if I would ever pick up my camera again. The joy I took from photography was gone. I had to force myself to take pictures and when I did, I felt like I connected with Maddie. She loved to sit on my lap and look at the photos on the screen. Still, it was very hard to take pictures knowing Madeline wouldn’t see any of them.
I am so glad I have another tiny muse.
I am so thankful I have the thousands of photos I took of Maddie. I spend hours looking at them, remembering the moments surrounding them, reliving memories. One thing I noticed was, as the photographer, there weren’t a lot of photos of me and Maddie together. I vowed this time around to change that. So today, when I was playing with Annabel, I asked Mike to take some pictures of the two of us.
In the day of digital photography, it’s so easy to take hundreds (or even thousands) of pictures. Trust me, you’re never going to look back and say, “gosh, I wish I hadn’t used up that room on my hard drive on pictures of my baby’s first year.” I have a picture of almost every single day of Madeline’s life, and I can say the same for Annabel. I tell everyone to keep their cameras with them in their purses, diaper bags, etc. You won’t regret it.
Some day, you’ll be able to look back on the days and moments that might seem mundane at the time, and be so glad you captured an instant.
Lynnette says:
I have to admit. Your and Maddie’s stories have recreated the photographer in me with my daughter that I had lost after her first couple of years. Now I crave taking pictures of her, even with some of her everyday antics. I am glad that you have so many pictures to remember your beautiful Maddie with and will have so many to share with Annie as she gets older. May your days be filled with joy and blessings as your family continues to grow more and more in love with each other as each day passes.
Jessi says:
Love the pictures! I am NEVER in pictures and it makes me mad bc I dont mind getting my pic taken, but I am normally the one with the camera! I will have to change that too.
She is just precious!!!
.-= Jessi´s last blog ..RAW(e) =-.
Kate @ UpsideBackwards says:
You are both so beautiful. Good for you for remembering to get on the other side of the camera every so often!
.-= Kate @ UpsideBackwards´s last blog ..This is how fear of flying starts =-.
pamela says:
BEAUTIFUL pictures. I seem to always forget to get in the picture… but sometimes I dont want to when I look like a hot mess.
.-= pamela´s last blog ..I Should Be Writing =-.
Bonnie says:
So beautiful! Thanks, as always, for sharing. Mike took some gorgeous pics. Looks like some of your mad photog skillz might be rubbin’ off on the hubs.
Krissa says:
You both are so beautiful, as was Maddie and I’m glad you have been able to preserve so many precious memories.
cj says:
you are so right, Heather. it is a wonderful thing to have recorded evidence of the beautiful memories. thank you for sharing your stories.
debi says:
People get tired of my constant picture taking, but then later they come begging for pictures of the babies birthday ect. I lost a little baby boy when he was 2 weeks old back in 1971. I had only one picture of him that the womens group took at the hospital. I agree with you and take thousands of pics. My 8 month old granddaughter and her mommy live at home with her dad and me and I too have taken pictures of each day of Bella’s life. I know that even that many still isn’t enough. Annie is a beauty just like her sister. You are blessed for sure.
J in eire says:
My dad is a professional photographer, and so many people go to him with photos of loved ones who have passed, for help with prints they may have. It is always the biggest regret that people have – not enough photos, recent or otherwise… I am so glad you have so many photos of Maddie to bring you closer to your shared moments. Also, Annie is so beautiful, I’m so thankful that you have her in your lives.
Allyson/@HBMomof2 says:
I keep a camera on my kitchen counter for that very reason, just to document the day to day. I need to get better at being in the photo though.
I love the one of you holding Annie up and you both showing your beautiful blue eyes. The other one that touched me was the one where you are laying down and reaching up to her. You can see your pretty Maddie necklace and it just made me think of how you are holding one close to your heart, one in your arms and both within your heart. It made me teary, peaceful and happy all at the same time. Many continued blessings to you and many more thousands of pictures.
Christina says:
Well…it’s official! You and Mike make unbelievably adorable, breathtakingly beautiful children. Those eyes! You’re kidding right!?! They are SO big and SO blue! Glad to see you smiling Heather, keep up the picture taking and posting. This reader can never get enough.
.-= Christina´s last blog ..The Best Thing =-.
Lynn from For Love or Funny says:
Heather, this is so true! I’m always behind the camera, rarely in front of it, and I have few pictures of me with my children. I want to change that!!
.-= Lynn from For Love or Funny´s last blog ..I don’t knead you. =-.
Tara says:
Oh Heather, she’s lovely. You look lovely! I love starting my day with one of your posts. Enjoy your rather mundane but utterly priceless day with Annie.
xoxo
defendUSA says:
Sweet. You can see the recognition in Annabel’s eyes…nothing like it, is there?
Ms. Moon says:
I am doing exactly that with my grandson. In fact…I am about to take a picture of him this very moment and it will be another in the hundreds I have taken in his five months. Every one cherished.
.-= Ms. Moon´s last blog ..Look =-.
Rachel says:
I have to say I agree with everything you said – pictures are so precious! My brother and his wife lost their son 7 weeks ago at the age of 3 months. Every. single. picture. they have of him is precious to them, especially b/c they will never have more. They too have a picture from nearly every day of his life, and still wish they had more.
On a lighter note, Annie is just gorgeous. I’m sure you and Mike already know this, but she is a beautiful, beutiful baby (just like her big sister!)
AmazingGreis says:
I love looking through your pictures. Thank you for sharing your muse (both of them) with us.
.-= AmazingGreis´s last blog ..ABC’s of my blog life… =-.
Jill says:
Those pictures are beautiful.
.-= Jill´s last blog ..Noise sensitivity =-.
Nancy Lee says:
Rarely do I comment, but I just have to say Annie is the cutest little thing I have ever seen!!!!!!!!!!! these pics are my favorite! No need to stop making babies now since you and Mike sure know how to make some beautiful ones!
God Bless You
Nancy
Kathryn says:
you’re such a good mommy. will you be my mother too? :o) Annie and Maddie are very lucky girls to have such a great mom!
Mary Ann says:
As a third child who came 9 years after the last two I have a hospital picture, a professional one done at 2 months, and then my kindergarten class picture. My brother and sister however have albums full of memories. So when my neices were born I made it a point not to let number 2 or even number 3 get lost in the lurch and I take hundreds pictures of them constantly and have made each of them scrapbooks of our times together. I love seeing your pictures and I know Annie will treasure them as she grows. I love your photographs – you are an inspiration!
Fairly Odd Mother says:
You are so right. You, and many other wonderful photographers, have inspired me to ask for a “real” camera for my birthday to replace the POS I use now. My babies aren’t really babies anymore (gak! youngest is 5!), but I know I’ll never regret having great photos of them at any point.
Love these photos and you look beautiful, as does Annabel!
Erica says:
Hi Heather,
What gorgeous photos of you and the adorable Annie, you are both so very beautiful, and as for the photos of Maddie, I just love looking at them, such a beauty too. Its so very special that you have so many precious memories of your Maddie, a photo from nearly every day of her life is such a special memory. You remind me every day to take more photos of my little girl and to document those special moments. Thank-you!
Sending you lots of love from afar
Erica
Laura says:
Simply gorgeous pictures and everything you said is so true- we will never regret taking photos of our children! We never get that time when they are tiny back, and it is so wonderful to look back and enjoy every sweet memory that we have with them. I am so glad that you have thousands of photos with your precious angel Maddie. I also love that you cherished her every day and knew how precious each moment was from the very start.
You look amazing- and those big, blue eyes of yours, Maddie’s ad Annabel’s are just breath-taking!
I have to ask about your necklace- is that sweet Maddie’s silhouette? It sure looks like it! And I love that it looks like the she is part of the shot, participating in all the fun, gazing over at her baby sister just like Mommy is. So sweet and touching!
Love and hugs to all of you!!!
Kelly says:
I am almost always the one behind the camera, so this post is inspirational to me. I need to get in the pictures with my girls. Thank you, Heather for this reminder.
.-= Kelly´s last blog ..I Read A Lot. =-.
Micha says:
You have a beautiful family!
Hope says:
Beautiful pictures! She is such a little cutie-pie!
Keyona says:
I too spend lots of time behind the camera. Thank you for reminding me to step from behind it so that I am captured in my childs life as well. You guys are adorable!
.-= Keyona´s last blog ..For The Last Time =-.
Liz says:
Beautiful. I’m the same way–it’s hard to always be in the picture when you want to take them.
.-= Liz´s last blog ..Thinking =-.
Sue says:
I’m right there with you on keeping a camera with you at all times, Heather. You and Annabel are absolute true beauties in these pictures!!! She’s starting to look a lot like you, now, too,,,so Mike will have to move over!!LOL I love the idea that you are going to start including yourself in lots of the photos with her.
Big hugs to all of you…………….
java@nevergrowingold.blogspot.com says:
I too am a pic fanatic and drive my family nuts…but I am so glad to look back at all the images I have ever taken…each one is more valuable then the next.
Annie is so adorable..how can you not photograph her!! Have fun snapping away!
.-= java@nevergrowingold.blogspot.com´s last blog ..ALL CLEAR: FeedMedic Alert for NeverGrowingOld =-.
Tracy says:
Those pictures are precious – especially the second one where she is looking at you with such love and wonder in her beautiful blue eyes. We have thousands and thousands of pictures of our children, but you are right. There are not enough of me, mama, in them. I need to do that. Thanks for the reminder!
Kristin says:
You and Annie are both so beautiful. I take tons of pictures too and never ever regret it.
.-= Kristin´s last blog ..Let Me Share My Fantasys With You =-.
Beth says:
such gorgeous pictures of the two of you!
i couldn’t agree more… i take thousands of photos of my son… i’ve made calendars, dvds, etc. from them. what could make better presents? =)
.-= Beth´s last blog ..New favorite activity: KinderT.ots! =-.
Lindsay from Florida says:
Heather, I can’t pinpoint exactly what it is (because every single one of your posts is amazing in its own right), but today’s touched me profoundly.
I saw the second picture and gasped at Annabel’s eyes. Just like Maddie, SUCH deep, perfect, crystal-blue eyes.
And then the one that you tagged as “looking at me like I’m crazy.” Except … she’s not. She’s looking at you like you two are already the best of buddies, and you are looking at her with so much love that it brought tears.
You are both radiant – breathtakingly radiant here – and I am so, so, so happy that there is a new muse in your life.
Kristy says:
I have never commented before though I’ve been following you for almost a year now. Today I was compelled to comment for a few different reasons. Those pictures (and pretty much EVERY picture I have seen) of Annie are so adorable! The picture of you smiling with Annie is beautiful. I look forward to your blog posts every day because they are so raw and honest and open. I applaud your courage and your strength. Also, I agree with you on the pictures. I have never lost a child so I cannot say that I know how that feels and my heart breaks every time you mention Maddie. I can’t imagine how hard it is. I’m so glad you have pictures of her as well. And of Annie. My oldest daughter just turned 7 years old. I just had my second daughter almost 7 months ago. I find myself going back through pictures of my oldest because I forgot all those wonderful baby moments. I wish I had more (though I have thousands as well). I wish I had taken more video so I can remember her sweet little baby voice. I’m sure there will never be enough pictures of our children because when they are older we will always say “Oh, I wish I had caught that moment!” But we can sure try!
Anjie says:
You’re so right. I wish I had taken more pictures of Miranda when she was an infant. I’ve learned my lesson and take lots of pictures now. I love these pictures. I’m rarely in any photos either.
.-= Anjie´s last blog ..Tuesday’s Tip Jar – Toys =-.
Caroline says:
A brilliant idea. I am in so few myself. And recently (not to get all dark on you here) but when I was looking for pictures of me with my mother after she passed, there were so so few. She was the one, like so many of us, who took all the pictures. She was the one behind the scenes. Your daughter will thank you for stepping forward and being with her here!
.-= Caroline´s last blog ..Signs of Spring =-.
Natalie @ Hope Springs Eternal says:
Annabel is GORGEOUS.
.-= Natalie @ Hope Springs Eternal´s last blog ..Blog Awards A Go-Go =-.
cindy w says:
Love, love LOVE these pics. I also have to work on my whole “get in the damn picture already” thing. I’m just not very good at handing my camera over to anyone. Heh.
.-= cindy w´s last blog ..just as she is =-.
Jenn says:
Hi Heather!
OOhh, just look at her little personality come out!!! She is so cute!!! I think her shirt is 100% correct…She DOES love her mommy….A LOT!!! You can just see the love in her eyes for you!
Lucky you….Lucky her!!!!
Have a GREAT day and get some rest!!!
Jenn
Mama Fuss says:
We are also blessed by the many pictures you took of Maddie and look forward to millions more of Annie!
.-= Mama Fuss´s last blog ..10 on Tuesday =-.
leel says:
wonderful – all of it. you, the baby, moving on while still remembering the past. you are awesome.
.-= leel´s last blog ..i hear wednesday is wordless: sketchbook pages =-.
Lisa says:
I’m a bit emotional today anyway, but this post made me teary eyed. I’m so glad you have those pictures to look at and cherish. My camera is always in my purse because of you. I remember you saying that one time and I’ve made sure it is there always, I don’t want to miss a moment.
The pictures of you and Annie are beautiful.
Love and hugs.
.-= Lisa´s last blog ..11 Years: A Sad Anniversary =-.
amanda says:
You are so right on with this post. And I adore that last pic.
xo from CT,
amanda
.-= amanda´s last blog ..we’ve been busy. =-.
Shannon Kieta says:
I see a happiness in your eyes I haven’t seen since you were in pictures with Maddie. Welcome back! It’s a breath of fresh air. You and Annie are precious together! You will treasure those picture’s forever, like you do Maddie’s. That is one BEAUTIFUL baby. I can’t help saying it over and over again! She is precious!
Erica S. says:
Love all the pics Heather! She looks so much like Mike to me….missing Maddie always….and like some of the posts above I make sure to take lots more pics bc of you…I’ve always enjoyed photography and enjoy it so much more when my kiddos are on the other end of my lens
Kristin says:
It looks like little Miss Annabel shares her Mommy and big sister Madeline’s beautiful eyes. What gorgeous girls!
Angie says:
Wow. The one of you two gazing into each other’s eyes? I almost feel like I was disturbing an intimate moment. It was that powerful. Thanks so much for sharing.
Patricia Porter says:
What a beautiful little girl! Heather, she is a little bit more grown up with each set of pictures. Please keep clicking that camera.
Mary says:
My shots always turn out missing the one thing I was trying to capture. I totally need to upgrade to another camera…but that’s a little off topic now, isn’t it? For not getting much sleep, you sure don’t look like it’s giving you bags under the eyes or droopy eye. Wow, first no stretch marks, now no sleep bags…sheesh!!!
Courtney says:
What beautiful pictures and great advice! I will always have my camera ready when I have a child!
Tricia (irishsamom) says:
Your baby girl is absolutely breathtaking. And she looks so much like you now and her big sister. Thanks for sharing these and for reminding me of what my kids lament all the time – there are no pictures of you with us mommy. I need to change that. Memories are too precious. You are looking absolutely glowing and beautiful in your pictures Heather and I am so glad that your beautiful girl can make you smile.
Love and hugs,
Tricia
.-= Tricia (irishsamom)´s last blog ..My Birthday Boy =-.
Becky @TheRealBecks says:
i agree with this whole heartedly. i love taking pictures. i haven’t taken as many as you have of my girls BUT i do take pictures every single week. at least 2 days a week. my friends tell me i’m crazy but i tell THEM they’re crazy. we will never get these days back. i like to have something to remember them by. and like you said, you never regret all the pictures you took..just the ones you didn’t take. i need to start having my husband take more pics of me with my kids though…because like you said, since i’m always taking them i’m rarely in them. i need to change that.
.-= Becky @TheRealBecks´s last blog ..Break dancing =-.
Jess L. says:
First, “looking at me like I’m crazy” is the best picture ever. Love it.
Second, you have been my inspiration to keep my camera handy and actually use it. I could look at pictures of Maddie and Annie all day, and they’re not even my kids! I now have some awesome “every day moments” pictures of my little one because of it. Thank you.
rachel cortest says:
No truer words were ever said. And in case i have not mentioned it 1000 times, that baby could win any baby contest. She is absolutely stunning.
leslie says:
My husband makes fun of me because I have pictures from almost every day of her life and she will be 2 this month. I couldn’t agree MORE! It’s SO great you have pics of your girls…you will never regret that!
Lisa @ lists in my pocket says:
You have such a pretty baby Thanks for sharing all the pictures with us!
.-= Lisa @ lists in my pocket´s last blog ..Steps to Green Living: Personal Hygiene and Beauty Products =-.
jen says:
Gorgeous! And you’re so right…..
(((Hugs))) from here!
.-= jen´s last blog ..ch,ch,ch,changes =-.
Christen says:
I promise to take more video’s of my daughter. That’s the one thing I don’t have a lot of. I will demand that my husband bring the video camera back from his job so that we can have it.
Good for you to get in front of the camera! I have very few pictures of me and my mom because she didn’t like her picture being taken and only ONE picture of me and my favorite grandmother. I refuse to allow my daughter to not have pictures of us together when she grows up! She will know that we spent time together.
Katie C. says:
Everyone calls me the shutterbug because I am constantly taking pictures of my nieces and nephews and stepson… and I am sure when I have a baby it will be even worse! I think it is so important to capture those moments… I am so glad you are capturing so many wonderful ones of Annabel!
Colleen says:
I am 51 and those pictures make me want to have a baby…yikes! She is beautiful, sigh……
Trisha Vargas says:
The both of you are just gorgeous!!
Love how the second one down really captured Annie’s blue eyes.
(((HUGS))) from Florida
Ninabi says:
Beautiful pictures. The photo of Annie gazing at you is precious.
Cindy says:
Heather I do hope this helps
When I read your blog it is as if I can feel your pain. I wish I could take that pain away. Wishing you a healing day!!
Sandy says:
3 words – beautiful beautiful beautiful. both of you.
Aunt Becky says:
She’s so lovely.
.-= Aunt Becky´s last blog ..Next on Hoarders: Your Aunt Becky =-.
Tina says:
I didn’t expect to cry today but that made me. You are so right. Those silly moments at the park or on the steps of church are the things in this life that we need to remember and smile at.
Again you have taken so beautiful shots, so has Mike
Thank you for sharing them.
Marti from Michigan says:
I agree with everyone else above me………ABSOLUTELY beautiful!!!
I also love looking at the adorable pictures of Maddie. Such beautiful Spohr girls!
Chris says:
I love the pictures–I love the ones of Maddie and now the ones of Annie. And I think it’s wonderful that you’re getting Mike to take some of you with Annie. I’m in my 30’s, and my mom passed away several years ago (she was my absolute best friend in the world for my entire life) and it makes me so sad that I only have maybe half a dozen pictures of us together. These are something you’ll enjoy, and someday so will Annie. I’d love to have some more. The few I have I’ve scanned so I will never risk losing them (Since they are from the days before digital). Anyway, it’s a VERY good thing you’re doing for Annie as well as you, and, they are great pictures. She is SO cute.
Andrea says:
Wow she is sooo beautiful!!! I am so glad that you have those precious pictures of Maddie. You can NEVER take too many pics! Have a great rest of the week/weekend!!
Hugs from Oklahoma
Andrea
.-= Andrea´s last blog ..Hope =-.
Jodee says:
Beautiful pictures!!!!
.-= Jodee´s last blog ..Wordless Wednesday =-.
Patti McKenna says:
I love picture #2 – it truly shows the connection between the two of you. You can see how she already looks up to you.
.-= Patti McKenna´s last blog ..She Interrupted a Child Abduction & Saved a Life =-.
Meg...CT says:
“I am so glad I have another tiny muse.”
Me too :O)
Gale @ Ten Dollar Thoughts says:
Since she was born I think we’ve all commented on how much Annie looks like Mike. But I have to say, in that second photo I’m starting to see quite a bit of you in her too, Heather.
As the principle photographer in my family I too am rarely in the photos with my son. Thanks for the reminder that I should be on the other end of the lens from time to time.
.-= Gale @ Ten Dollar Thoughts´s last blog ..Role Model =-.
Mandy says:
I agree, I am trying to become a photographer for money, but people rag on me for taking so many of my kids. I wouldn’t do it any differently, even when I am back logged on uploading! LOL I’m not in very many either, need to get hubby in the habit of carrying the smaller camera. You guys take beautiful pictures. and are a beautiful family!
.-= Mandy´s last blog ..6 months old =-.
Karen says:
Heather, those last two pictures of you and Annie are just precious! Like you, I’m in hardly any pictures with my kids. I’m definitely going to have to work on that.
.-= Karen´s last blog ..Spring Pics. =-.
Michelle H. says:
I love how Annie is reaching out to touch you in the photos. She loves her amazing mom!
Manda says:
Like you, I have very few pictures of me with my kids. TONS of them alone, or with their dad and grandparents.
I just have to say Heather, I really care for your blog. You are honest and refreshing and it is the only one I go to nearly every single day.
I can’t wait to see Annabel for years to come
mommymae says:
she looks so big now! not a brand-spanking new baby, but one who is awake more! so exciting! y’all are adorable.
.-= mommymae´s last blog ..waterbed =-.
Kristin says:
So beautiful! I get so busy photographing other people’s children that I don’t spend the time on my own kids. Thanks for the reminder!
.-= Kristin´s last blog ..Snow… =-.
Kristin says:
She is absolutley gorgeous, just like her sister, and her mommy. I read everyday and love the pictures, you take the most beautiful photos, I am glad you now have another muse, the world would miss out on your breathtaking phtography. And I am so glad you were able to get all the photos of Maddie, so you will always have that memory.
Colleen says:
Beautiful Baby. Beautiful Mama.
Love you ladies.
.-= Colleen´s last blog ..Getting My Bitch On. =-.
Jennifer says:
I love the last pic!! I have the same of both of my boys at that age. It is funny when you kiss their foreheads their mouths open
She is beautiful…enjoy her as I know you will.
Heather says:
love the pictures.. I’m a photographer too and couldn’t agree more about keeping a camera around.. I need to take my own advice and carry mine with me!!
Kasey says:
I completely agree about taking photos! I took over 3500 during the first year of my son’s life and I don’t regret the hard drive that they take up! I love each of them…even when many are of the same thing over and over again!
Kathryn says:
Love the pictures of you two! She’s already changed so much since her newborn pics! What a beauty she is. And I still think she looks like a mini-Mike :o)
Tracy says:
She REALLY is a beautiful baby! I am glad you are able to capture such precious moments….time goes so quickly when they are little.
Tara. says:
Such sweet pictures. You are so beautiful, Heather. And my goodness! Annie is looking more like Mike every day. She is just precious. I know someday the two of you will look through all of her pictures and pictures of her big sister. What a special time that will be.
Joy says:
I’ve often looked at all of the pictures and videos that you have of Maddie and thought, “Wow, I don’t think I have that many pictures and videos of my three children put together.” You are so lucky to have so many photographic and video memories of your beautiful Maddie. Keep creating them, newborns change every day and Annie is such a doll I love seeing those pictures of her.
Molly says:
Awww…Annie is so pretty (and so are you)! And I still love seeing the pictures of Maddie as well.
binkytowne says:
I have to point out, in case you didn’t see it yourself, that there is such a light in your eyes in these pictures of you and Annie. It’s so nice to see. That’s sweet, pure, love.
Heather says:
I love that second picture of Annie..she is so beautiful and the pictures of you two together are so incredibly sweet! Thank you for reminding us to enjoy every moment because it is the little moments that count for so much.
Denise says:
She’s just absolutely gorgeous and mom is looking lovely as well! I’ve been so bad about taking photos lately, eek!
Kara says:
So true…. And what a BEAUTIFUL little girl you have been blessed with again! She’s gorgeous.
damaris says:
your photos are great and I agree with you, I have thousands of pictures, thousands.
Can you give us a little tutorial though, what camera do you use, how and where do you edit and save, etc?
.-= damaris´s last blog ..Birth Day =-.
Danny says:
Really gorgeous photos. Keep on snappin’!
.-= Danny´s last blog ..Donuts n’ Formula =-.
Glenda says:
Lovely pictures. I love photography…always have since I was about 12 and got my first camera. Annabel is gorgeous. Love her blue eyes against her complexion. Enjoy every minute of every day! Sending you both hugs XX
MrsP says:
I agree with you. I carry my camera as much as possible cause you never know when you might need it. Annabel is changing so much, but she still looks like a mini Mike in a feminine way.
Katrina says:
Awww….those are great pictures of you and Annabel It’s wonderful that you are remembering to get into the pictures with her! Looking at our family album, one would think my husband is a single dad. Where’s the mommy? Always behind the lense!!! LOL
.-= Katrina´s last blog ..Snow Day =-.
Katrina says:
ooops….I meant “lens” of course
.-= Katrina´s last blog ..Snow Day =-.
Danielle says:
I don’t have very many pictures of me and my daughter together either. I need to get busy with that. Thanks for the reminder.
.-= Danielle´s last blog ..Ca Ching! =-.
Lamb says:
Such lovely photos, and great advice. Annie is going to love all these photos 1 day. It’s nice to have baby photos of yourself, but photos showing your mom’s love are even better!
.-= Lamb´s last blog ..Jack Russells Are The Best Dogs =-.
Rebecca says:
In that last photo, it looks like she is trying to kiss you back….I’m sure you are her favorite parent………but shhhhh don’t tell Mike.
.-= Rebecca´s last blog ..My Four Year Old Singing. =-.
Amy Collen says:
Absolutely beautiful! Just love those pictures…
Amy
Stimey says:
Gorgeous photos. And, yes, photos are wonderful, amazing, and important. I am also usually the photographer and have few photos of myself with my children. It’s so smart of you to get photos of yourself with Annie. And they’re absolutely beautiful.
.-= Stimey´s last blog ..I’m All Over the Internet, But a Mention in an Honest-to-God Print Newspaper Gives Me Chills =-.
nina says:
I did not read through all of your comments so someone may have already said this but I speak from true expierence. Please make sure you have your pics backed up in about 3 diff places. I lost an entire year of pictures of my children when our computer crashed….that was my first year with a digital camera. Now I store on my computer, then on an external hard drive and 3rd on flash drives. So I have 3 diff places…your baby girl is precious and it’s nice to see your smiling face. You’re an awesome person!
Gina says:
The most adorable baby. You look so in love with eachother with Maddie smiling. Mike needs to be in those pics.
Jenn says:
Let me tell you a story.
I came upon your blog after Maddie’s passing and was DEEPLY moved by you, her and Mike…strangers. But, through your words and pictures I didn’t feel like a stranger anymore.
Your pictures are incredibly real to me and moving. I feel that when I look at your pictures and read your words I can feel EXACTLY what you are trying to convey.
I have taken pictures with a point-and-shoot for as long as I can remember and was satisfied with the pics. Until….I saw your pics and realized what I can do. So, my dear sweet husband for my birthday, got me my first REAL camera!! I am obviously not as experienced as you and the pictures show it. However, I am inspired by you.
Thank you for introducing me to the world of picture taken!
Best, Jenn
.-= Jenn´s last blog ..Room Swap =-.
Kelly says:
Right there with you on the pictures… I love having them! You & Annie make a cute couple
.-= Kelly´s last blog ..My NashGirl is Growing Up =-.
Sue says:
P.S. Heather,when I commented earlier this morning; I noticed that you were wearing a necklace. But not until someone commented on it being the image of Maddie,,,did I take a second look. It is truly beautiful,,,what a priceless treasure to have, and always wear close. Your two precious girls are so lucky to have a mommy like you!
J says:
Oh, she’s just growing and getting more beautiful. And she has your eyes.
Thanks for the reminder on keeping the camera handy. You’re right– who will ever regret having too many pictures?
Tammy Hunt says:
JUST BEAUTIFUL!!!!!!!!!
Lori Vann says:
After I read this post I sat down and took about 50 pictures of my little ones – thinking of Maddie while I did so. I want those memories to always be fresh in my mind. I then turned the camera over to my 3 yr old and let him take about another 50 photos – it’s wonderful to see the world from their point of view.
Annie has beautiful eyes, so deep and thoughtful. Much love to you and yours.
Alison says:
Dang. I know where Maddie and Annie got their looks. Heather, you’re gorgeous!
xoxo
.-= Alison´s last blog ..What is a Twin Good For, Anyway? =-.
heather says:
annabel is getting cuter and cuter!! i envy mom’s today with digital images, don’t get me wrong i took a ton of my kids growing up – but not as many as i would today with digital!
Jen the Catalyst says:
Sweet sweet – LOVE.
.-= Jen the Catalyst´s last blog ..CSA Sign Up =-.
preTzel says:
That fourth picture? Made my eyes water. Absolutely beautiful picture. Like you are blowing kisses at each other.
Anne (MN) says:
Beautiful pictures, Heather! My husband and I also take lots of pictures of our 3 children. Sadly, our home was robbed last Wednesday, and they took our hard drive that contained EVERY picture and video for the last 6 years. All my pregnancies, deliveries, first year for the kids, first Christmas’, first birthdays, first steps, words….and all of the everyday events that are so precious. All I can say, is BACK UP every picture/video and HIDE the hard drive well when you’re not home. Even if it’s just to run to the store around the corner…which is what happened to us. Within 20 minutes, it was all gone. It sounds crazy to have to live like that, but take it from me, if someone ever breaks in to your home and steals your things, at least you’ll still have your memories.
Take care and I just LOVE reading your blog everyday!
The Editor says:
I am always amazed at how many picture you have of Maddie…and I am so glad you took them. I don’t have that many of mine when they were small…I didn’t get my slr until recently, but some of the best “photos” I have are remembered with my heart.
Love the last picture where she is kissing you!!!!
.-= The Editor´s last blog ..It was you, blue kangaroo, and the squirrels did it, too! =-.
A Mother's Thoughts says:
You are both so gorgeous! I am so happy that you found the strength to pick the camera! Your daughter will be so happy to have all those memories also! You are very brave! Hugs.
Lynn
.-= A Mother’s Thoughts´s last blog ..What Do You Think Of Jake Pavelka Picking Vienna? And Rejecting Tenley? The Bachelor: On The Wings Of Love =-.
Jess says:
I love the pictures. And you’re right, we’re usually the ones behind the camera, not in front. I carry my camera with me too. It’s not as good as yours, but it gets the job done. You never know what you’re going to see!
CristinaRN says:
The two of you are gorgeous.
Kim ~ CraftyMamaof4 says:
she is so beautiful Heather I am a mamarazzi as well, my kids think I’m crazy.
.-= Kim ~ CraftyMamaof4´s last blog ..Recipe Round Up ~St. Patrick’s Day =-.
Dawn says:
I have started using the timer on my camera…I, too, am behind the lens WAY TOO often.
Beautiful pics!
.-= Dawn´s last blog ..how I can sleep at night =-.
mythoughtsonthat says:
Your girl, she is a doll!
Faith….Hope….Love….Peace.
.-= mythoughtsonthat´s last blog ..Hope, Revisited =-.
Sarah R says:
Simply beautiful. ♥
.-= Sarah R´s last blog ..Pictures! Pictures! =-.
Sara @TomTheGirl says:
i love all of your pictures, and am SO glad you have your muse again.
xoxoxo
.-= Sara @TomTheGirl´s last blog ..Something to remember =-.
chrystal says:
i just wanted to take a moment to say Annie is a gorgeous little girl … just like her big sister you are blessed!
Mary says:
You are so beautiful, your precious Annie is so beautiful, and Maddie is forever beautiful. Everyday, I look at some of her photos under Mammarazzi. She will remain a part of so many people’s lives. We didn’t have to meet her in person. You gave us the gift of knowing her. She has a very special priceless legacy and thousands, myself included, will cherish her forever.
Debra @ A Frugal Friend says:
Such precious photos.
I couldn’t agree more. I was always the photographer in my family too, so when my mom passed away unexpectedly I was so sad when I realized how few pics there were of “just us two”. I cherish those few pictures!
Take a gazillion photos everyone….and make sure you are IN a ton of them too.
.-= Debra @ A Frugal Friend´s last blog ..Walt Disney World w/a Preschooler (Giveaway) =-.
lm says:
heather i love love LOVE the 4th picture of you and annie. you can see the love in her little face…and the tiny fist of hers under your chin, its as if she is saying “don’t worry mom I’m here when you need me. chin up.” love. it.
Sara K. says:
You both are absolutely beautiful
xoxox~
.-= Sara K.´s last blog .. =-.
Sarah says:
Hi!
I am so glad that you did not give up photography. Your so great at it!
I’m hardly ever in any of the pictures with my kids either because I’m always the one behind the camera. I seem to be the only one in my family who enjoys photography.
Jodie Brooks says:
OMG!!! She is so stinkin’ sweet!!! She is just BEAUTIFUL!!! Thanks for sharing her with us!!
MamaCas says:
My son was born in April of 2000 and my father-in-law passed away (very suddenly) in August of 2000. I have only one photo of him and my son. One. Can I tell you how often I curse myself for not taking more? ESPECIALLY since I consider myself to be a fairly good amateur photographer. I always assumed there would be other chances to take a pic of them together. I was wrong.
You will NEVER regret taking too many pics. You will ALWAYS regret not taking enough.
Cynthia Woodmansee says:
I can honestly say you look happy. I don’t know if you are, but you look so happy with your beautiful Annie. You are beautiful.
Yolanda says:
Heather –
Good evening. Annie loves you it is clear in her beautiful eyes when she looks at you.
Ray says:
Gorgeous photos. You and Annabel are beautiful (and so was Maddie). I am so glad that you took so many photos of Maddie and that you’re doing it now with Annabel as well. It’s great that you’re including yourself as well, because we need pictures of MOM too! =o)
I don’t have many photos of myself because a) I hate the way I look in photos, b) I’m not photogenic and c) I look the same as I did when I was like thirteen (and I’ll be twenty-three in April). But you remind me that I need to take more photos of myself, for the memories.
Thanks.
Also: If I had a kid I’d be doing the same thing. I’d be going “PHOTO CRAZY!” Also: when one hard drive gets full just buy another!!! =D
Upstatemomof3 says:
You are so completely and totally right!! I want a small camera that I can keep in my diaper bag so that I always have one with me. I have a “better” camera that I bought earlier this year and I love it. BUT it is a pain and I don’t take it as many places as I used to take my small camera.
.-= Upstatemomof3´s last blog ..Fettucini Alfredo =-.
Monkey's Mama says:
She is BEAUTIFUL! And you have the shiniest hair!
lara says:
so off the topic, but did you watch rachael ray and see the “celeb hairstyle french braid” segment. either way, looks cute!
Heather says:
no, I didn’t see that! Wish I had!
Elaine says:
I’m so glad you did this – keep it up. I need to get my hubs to take more pics of me and my girl. I’m working on it…
.-= Elaine´s last blog ..THE Most Random Post EVER (at least that I’ve ever written) =-.
mom, again says:
someone pointed out to me to be sure & take pictures of myself. years to come, the kiddo will be only mildly interested in his baby photos, but will be fascinated with pictures of his parents & other grown ups especially any that are no longer around. photos from before they can remember, & before they were born are esp. interesting.
I knew this was true when I heard it, because I have spent ages staring & squinting at the few photos of my grandparents when they were newlyweds, or children. as a child I spent so much time studying my mom’s school annuals that I think I have a clearer memory than she does of the photos in there that include her or my aunt!
maggie, dammit says:
So beautiful.
Al_Pal says:
AWww. Lovely.