Mother's Day - Grayslake Photographer

I am so excited to share these images of some of my favorite Grayslake mamas.  This is about half of our Bunco group.  Not sure why it's called Bunco, I hear it's a game of some sort that we have never played. We get together once a month to connect, laugh and toast.  I've been dreaming about doing this for a while. I am so glad that they were up for it.. for the most part.. most of them were up for it ;)   

Susan is a working mom who never looks/sounds overwhelmed.  She always has it together.  Poise would be a great word to describe her.  Confidence radiates through her so I stand a little closer to catch some.  

Diane is a planner and an A type personality.  She made sure we had reservations after the photo shoot, I thought we should just show up to the restaurant.  She was right because the place was packed.  We are so different and I appreciate her that much more. She is intelligent and resourceful.

Stacey embarked on a new adventure this school year, going back to work.  In many ways she is fearless. One thing I love about her, is her knack for one liners.  She can make a joke within any conversation.  We are always laughing but don't give her the map, we will never get there.  

Ciara and Maria are cousins, I'm so glad Maria invited her.  Here is what Maria had to say about Ciara: "She is the definition of unique.  Anyone that knows her quickly realizes that there is no one quite like her! She has a fierce loyalty to her family and friends.  Her sense of humor is one of a kind.  She is a sister to me and I wouldn't trade her for anything."

I feel a deep connection with Maria because she "saved" me.  (Long story that I will probably share some other time.) She is the type of friend that would bring her camera to a photo shoot to make sure that her photographer friend got in a few pics.  I love that she wore a peace sign because she illuminates serenity.

LA has an excitement for life.  She is the first one on the dance floor and then she drags everyone else out with her to dance.  She doesn't just laugh with her voice or her mouth she laughs with every cell of her body. She transmits passion in every aspect of her life.  

Here we are, some of us.  Women.  Friends. Wives. Daughters. Mothers.  Individuals. One.  

Happy Mother's Day!

Feeling Different This Mother's Day - Chicago Area Family Photographer

This Mother's Day I felt very different.  It is a continuation of what I've been feeling this whole year.  My year of awakening. 
 
Last year, I hosted and spent all day in the kitchen.  I did so very happily and willingly even though I was exhausted by the end of the day.  This year, I decided that I wasn't going to do that to myself.  This year I was going to enjoy a stress free day.  It was wonderful. 

 

 

this year (above)

 

Mother's Day 2012

Don't mind the bags under my eyes. I was up all night cleaning and cooking.  LOL!

J with his new haircut.  I was very surprised when he got home.  Daddy was in the Army and has always had a thing about clean hair cuts.  Hair can't be too long or untidy.  As I am making changes within maybe daddy is making changes too.

Another reason why this Mother's Day is different is because I have decided that I no longer need to live my life only for my children and husband.  I want to live a fulfilled life for myself.  I am working hard to be successful and follow my dreams.  To show them that I have worked hard and achieved success; is to show them a higher level of my love.