James and Allison

Today I some spent time with James and Allison for their engagement photos.

We really had a great time. The great thing about these two is that the energy between them

is great and they are obviously meant for each other.

When couples are this comfortable with each other it makes for fabulous photos on the wedding day. "Relax and be yourselves" is my mantra. But I didn't have to say it once to these two.Their smiles are so genuine. I can't wait until the wedding ! 8 weeks to go !
James and Allison will be getting married on a Yacht !
I really am looking forward to getting some great images that day.

GO TED GO !

A few days ago I was thrilled to open my mail and find this book written by a Groom (Ted) I photographed last year,complete with a personal note on the first page.
On the day of our engagement session, Ted shared with me that he ran a 153 mile marathon through the Sahara called the Marathon Des Sables and that he had written a book about his experience and more.
Temperatures top 120 degrees and participants are carrying their
survival supplies in a backpack and using a map to navigate.

I was excited,intrigued and inspired all at once. I love a challenge. I love to challenge myself.
But there are MANY times I don't have the "inspiration " to stay on the treadmill at the gym.
I had to know how this man managed to complete a weeklong run through the Sahara.

I realize that we often give up in our heads way before our bodies do. This applies to so much more that athletic ability. Ted's story really lit a fire that was already burning within me as a youth. He promised me a copy of the book and true to his word, Amy his Bride mailed me a copy.
(Thanks Amy!)

I started reading the book right away and am using every free moment to continue.
This is book is not some boring journal of how many miles he ran each day.
Ted shares stories about personal challenges with his well known sense of humor.

I laughed,cried and got angry while reading the first few chapters.
Very well written and entertaining.
I was sitting on the edge of my seat not wanting to put the book down, but at some point I had to get back to work. Can't wait to finish it soon.

I may sound like a cliche'. But this book is really a story of the triumph of the human spirit, and what is the thought process going on in our head that makes some of us continue when others choose to quit.

Title of the book - Carved by God, Cursed by the Devil by Ted Archer
You can purchase a copy here - http://www.tedarcher.com/ or to just read more about it.

Better than any motivation seminar you could attend. This book will really inspire you.
Perfect for the times we are living in right now.

Ted is in Morocco right now running the marathon for the second time.
http://www.darbaroud.com/