Capturing Joyful Memories: Photography by DeLisa

The Aftermath of the Tornado in Piedmont

On Tuesday, May 24th, 2011 devastating tornadoes made there way into many parts of Oklahoma.  This is the site of one of those areas - Piedmont, Oklahoma.  This storm certainly put ALOT of things into perspective for me.   

This is just one of many homes that were hit.  This home doesn't even begin to show the extent of all the damage.  Some homes were left with only their foundation.

Americans, Oklahomans... coming together after such great devastation.

Tin and metal scraps could be found all over the place... wind-wrapped around anything in the path of the tornado

a reminder of children's toys that have been tossed around in the storm...

and then...an amazingly beautiful sunset as I made my way home...  I feel tremendously grateful for all that God has given to me and all of His continued blessings.  My heart goes out to all of those who have been struggling during this challenging time.

a blanket of snow...

The Surprise Engagement (& baby Audrey part II)

Okay, so here it is...The little surprise Bryan had awaiting Jackie the day we were taking baby Audrey's pictures.  So the plan was that Bryan and I were going to pretend like we were just going to take another photo...one where we focus on her little feet...but Bryan was going to place the ring on Audrey's foot and have it there when he lifted his hand and asked Jackie to marry him.  Not everything went according to plan but it was still one very special moment.  So I had Bryan get down on one knee...which for some reason he chose both knees ;)...then I acted like I was getting ready...setting up and took a step back...next thing I know before I was actually ready he is walking towards Jackie on his knees and all he could get out was "Will you marry me?".  He became soo nervous but that didn't matter to Jackie...she could not have been more surprised.  Of course she said yes!  She was crying, Bryan was crying, I was crying, and my Aunt Connie (who was video-taping) was crying too...the only one of us NOT crying was little Audrey!

 

Surprise!

 

 

soo many happy tears...

 

 

This is when Bryan said..."I choked up.  I forgot was I was going to say."

 

 

a precious moment

 

a sweet gift to make Christmas even more special 

 

Now Jackie is going to become a Silveira!  We are happy to have you as a part of the family Jackie.

 
 
  
 
 

Audrey Lynne

Oh, where do I begin???  This is a new family that is very close to my heart.  Meet my cousin Bryan and his soon-to-be wife Jackie...and let's not forget the sweetest little angel Miss Audrey Lynne.  I was fortunate enough to go out to California (as a surprise) to be with my family for Thanksgiving.  This also gave me a chance to photography baby Audrey.  I was thrilled!  It was amazing to me to see my 'little' cousin Bryan grow into such a MAN soo quickly.  He was born exactly 8 years after me--yes, on my birthday and I do love that we share that day, but it's hard to think of him as all grown-up.  He is absolutely IN LOVE with his precious baby girl as well as Audrey's loving and amazingly beautiful mother.  They are a beautiful family and the love is truly evident.  Take a peek at this ...I know I keep saying it but...BEAUTIFUL family.  I love and miss them already!

the love...

 

sweet baby

 

special delivery

 

 

 

Jackie, you are precious and your beauty is not just on the outside...you have an amazing heart.  Your daughter is lucky to have both you and Bryan.  

 

Look at that VERY PROUD Daddy!  Bryan, your love for her is something very special to see...

 

They adore her...
 

 

peaceful

 

Bless this family with faith, love, hope, and understanding.  I can't wait to see the little person Audrey becomes...

***oh, and...there is more to come of this little family...There was an ENGAGEMENT surprise with photos and video to prove it!  Check back this weekend and take a peek!
 
 
  

Yosemite Fall 2009

On my first full day of my vacation to California this time around I made a quick trip up to Yosemite with a close friend, her daughter, and her sister.  I absolutely love Yosemite but have never visited the area during this time of year.  It was still as beautiful as it is during the Spring and Summer months.  I love the crisp air and scent of pine and cedar.  Here are a few of the shots I captured along the way...

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Gracie is Julena's little mini-me

 

 

Sara

 

 

Julena

 

 

 

 

 

 

Julena took this pic and she did a great job!  

 

Gracie

 

sweet girl

 

 

 

Half Dome

 

 

 

 

 

 

Yosemite:  the destruction