I smile when I think of you | National Sibling Day

Who knew there was such a thing, a National Sibling Day? As the oldest of four, I'm not sure there is ever a day that passes I don't think about my little brother or little sisters.

From the time I was two, and Levi was born, my heart felt responsible for Levi, Courtney and Ammie. These three  little shadows that would follow my every step. I would hold tight to their hands, telling everyone they were mine. Friends and family would have to "ask my permission" to take them out of my site.

I'm not sure much has changed sense then. Although I may not be holding their hands, they don't leave my heart.

A bedtime story, a memory

"Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory." - Dr. Seuss

Searching for Seashells | Oahu, Hawaii

The tide recedes, but leaves behind bright seashells on the sand. The sun goes down, but gentle warmth still lingers on the land. The music stops, yet echoes on in sweet soulful refrains. For every joy that passes, something beautiful remains.

-Unknown

We Found Treasure | Oahu, Hawaii

We searched for the perfect shell... and we found treasure.

Take me back to Disneyland | Where dreams come true

When I came across this old photograph recently, my initial reaction was pure laughter. Who could honestly take this image seriously? There are so many things going wrong here, to point out a few (as if they aren't obvious)...

•  Big hair was obviously in (for men and women).
• Where can I find that scrunchie?
• Was there a recent sale at the local store for white tennis-shoes? And the matching tube socks?
• I'm forever thankful my mother can no longer cut my bangs, or curl them. I still have nightmares.
• The men are lookin' good in their short shorts. I'm loving the teal, Uncle Jeff.
• I realize the reason still today, as to why I do not wear "belly shirts".
• Stripes truly do never go out of style.
• Sunglasses and hoop earrings, don't forget em' girls.
• I wonder what was going through the mind of this "photographer" as he took this snapshot?

After I finally calmed down from the belly-ache of laughter, I couldn't help but look deeper into the photo...

I thought to myself, what is it about Disneyland that makes life so special? It's that it brings you and your loved ones together to create memories you will never forget. As I remember, the trip to Disneyland for my cousins, younger brother and I, was heaven. And from every emotion I am convinced played throughout the day, I am sure that happiness overcame it all (for both children, and parents).

If this is where dreams really do come true, take me back.

"Love" is how excited your dog gets when you come home

Every morning he waits for me to wake up, his head resting on the side of my bed. He stares at me with his big brown puppy dog eyes. Ready to get the day started, go for his morning run, and of course, sneak under the table for a bite of the crust off my peanut butter toast. He then spends his dog days napping on the cool wood floor, pouncing up and down at the neighbors dog across the fence, or digging a huge hole by the porch. His toys are usually found torn to pieces within a matter of minutes, then forcing him to move on to chew on the nearest shoe he can find. He makes use of the bathroom trash as he decorates the floor and hallway with torn shreds. He chases the cat up and down the stairs like it's the new game everyone is talking about. Oh, the life of a dog.

But no matter the circumstances of the day, there isn't a time  I don't walk through to door that I am not greeted by Remi. He waits patiently, his tail is wagging back and forth, ears perked, and eyes wide with excitement. When I walk into the house he dances around with excitement, expressing his happiness with his loud grunts. I bend down to greet him, and he covers my face in a big, sloppy, wet dog kiss. That is love.

Full Hearts and Prayers for Allison | Mini Session Donation

Our hearts and prayers are with a dear friend Allison and her family of the Douglas Wyoming community, as she fights to win her battle with Cancer. A silent and live auction will be held to benefit this amazing woman at the Douglas Community Club on April 26th, 2014. With much love, Miranda L. Sober Photography will be gifting a mini session donation. Mini sessions include a 20 minute session, 5 digital images of your choice, and the opportunity to make any a la carte purchases wished.  Help us support Allison's cause.