Chasing Simplicity, Awe, and Connection Through Photography

A memory popped into my head today—completely unexpected, but it stopped me in my tracks. I was 18, riding a bus home from a drama festival weekend, surrounded by friends. Graduation was just months away, and the world felt wide open. I was headed to Olivet Nazarene University to study education—teaching seemed like the logical path for someone who loved kids and learning.

When a friend asked me about my “ideal future”—like if absolutely ANYTHING could happen—I surprised even myself. I blurted out, “To have an amazing husband, five kids, and live on a farm.” Ummm… WHAT?? The answer shocked me as much as it did everyone else. I had the GPA, the AP classes, the college plans. I was surrounded by future doctors and lawyers… and here I was, daydreaming about a farm full of kids? Even I had to laugh—because that couldn’t possibly be a real post-high school path, right?

The Unexpected Dream That Never Let Go

I did graduate with a bachelor’s in education and later completed my MA. Over the years, I’ve taught 2nd, 1st, kindergarten, and pre-K in three different countries. Along the way, I met my dream husband at ONU (also a teacher), and together we’ve raised six amazing kids while living overseas—a life that has exceeded my wildest imagination. In so many ways, the family part of my “unexpected confession” came true.

But 30 years later, I still long for the farm. My heart aches for wide-open space, fresh air, rolling hills, and those soul-soothing sunsets. If you asked me now about my perfect dream, it would be this: inviting families to my own property for photo sessions. I want to share that sense of peace, laughter, and connection with busy parents who long to press pause on distractions and deadlines—just long enough to exhale, soak in the moment, and create memories worth hanging on their walls. Photos that remind them of awe, gratitude, and the fleeting beauty of childhood.

From Longing to Living: Building a Life Around Photography

It’s time. Time to step out in faith and see where God leads. Maybe it’s a farmhouse with a front porch, rolling hills, and sunsets. Maybe He planted that dream in my heart 30 years ago for a reason—combining my love of learning, children, and beauty into something bigger than myself. Family photography feels like the perfect fit. My passions haven’t changed; if anything, they’ve only deepened. Now it’s time to listen to my heart, follow the path ahead, and offer families gorgeous sessions—wherever God leads.

P.S. For my beautiful families here in Saudi Arabia, I'm still booking sessions! If you're ready to capture your story in Saudi, please reach out to schedule a session today

Follow the Journey!