a calm in the storm : Issue No. 6 "moving forward"

It's almost New Year's Eve and we're staring 2008 in the face. Are you ready to learn from 2007 and take a new step into the new year? What are your priorities as you put together your New Year's resolutions? For some, it's to spend more time with their families, to eat healthier, work harder, exercise more, relax more...what's yours? My thought for this new year is simple: Can you challenge people to watch the way you live and know you will not be an oxymoron? It's a hard question to answer if you don't know how to define the question. Of course, we're not perfect. There is no way we can always perform without making mistakes. But do you share that same view when you're working with others? Can you practice what you preach? If not, maybe you should change what you preach. Do you spend more time commenting on what other people are doing wrong as opposed to what other people are doing right? If it's the former, maybe you can't expect more from people toward you. If it's the latter, than you're probably surrounded by people who encourage and support you for you. As we walk in to the new year, it's always a good time to not let the past dictate who you are, but to allow it to teach you who you want to be. As you ring in 2008, don't forget to reflect on 2007. Take note of the areas that make you proud, the areas that inspire you and the areas that shaped you into a stronger person. Also take note of the areas that you found yourself disappointed, or defeated or areas you feel you failed. Use those times to learn how to move forward. A person's character is not formed by the times he failed, but by the times he failed and tried again. We can't expect ourselves to be flawless, but we should expect ourselves to give it our all. You may not always make the right decision or a decision that everyone agrees with, but if you've done your homework and you're intention is always pure, you can only do your best. You can't please everyone all the time, but you can always try your hardest and you can always serve others. I'll ask again, can you challenge people to watch the way you live and know you will not be an oxymoron? If you've answered no to this question, perhaps you need to explore the meaning of the question. If you can admit your mistakes and be thankful for your victories, you're on the right track.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Mike & Jessi: July 8

Mike & Jessi got married at the Centennial Heritage Museum in Santa Ana, CA. Their wedding was beautiful and filled with guests who shared their love and support for Mike and Jessi and their families. Their wedding was an absolute pleasure. From the beginning, the journey with Mike & Jessi was personal, inspiring and down right fun. They let us do our thing for the most part. This was a huge gift and privilege since they put their trust in us to do what we love. The engagement session was a lot of fun. We went to a park and played and then to a winery for some more dramatic shots.


One of the things that stood out the most between Mike and Jessi was their unconditional love and humility toward one another. While being strong and confident in who God has made them to be, they approach each situation with grace and gentleness. They are calming and inspiring to be around. After spending time with their families, you could see their parents led by example.

Jessi was an absolutely wonderful bride to be. She was relaxed and really took in the whole day. Her dress was gorgeous and was perfect for her. Mike was excited and ready to meet his beautiful bride at the end of the aisle. Here are a few pictures to set the tone for the day.



Throughout the day we had the joy to interact with Mike and Jessi's wedding party. What an amazing group of people. They were all so focused on Mike and Jessi throughout the day. The humility and servant's attitudes were humbling to see. It was a direct reflection on how Mike and Jessi put others before themselves on a regular basis. Not to mention they all knew how to let loose and have a good time.


The lighting was beautiful, the day was gorgeous and Mike and Jessi couldn't be happier. The day was finally here. Their ceremony was personal and heartfelt. Our favorite part of the ceremony was when Mike and Jessi stepped aside and prayed together. We hope you get a taste of how fun and full of life this couple is as you enjoy pictures from their ceremony.




Mike and Jessi were such a joy. I know we've said that a few times already, but they are just two people that really bring a smile to your face. After the ceremony, Mike and Jessi knew they wanted to spend some quality time on the portraits of the two of them. This is always such a special time for the bride and groom and the setting made their pictures fairy tale perfect. Mike and Jessi were so overwhelmed with love and joy. It was so clear they were made for each other.

Mike and Jessi had a beautiful reception filled with toasts that complimented their characters and devotion to the Lord and each other. It was moving and an honor to share in. They moved into their first dance and shared sweet moments together as they soaked in the whole night. Their guests stayed till the end and gathered together to send them off in style.


Mike and Jessi, congratulations on your wedding day and the beautiful relationship you demonstrate to everyone around you. Your servant's hearts and hard work ethic are admirable and motivating. We have enjoyed every minute we've spent with you and we look forward to watching your marriage grow into a beautiful lifetime. Thank you for your trust, encouragement and support. We are truly blessed to have shared in your wedding day and to continue to call you friends.