The Girls at Golden Hour

Sometimes I am just so glad I have my camera handy! Sunday evening we went to the park for a little Johnson family get-together. Just before sunset my cute little nieces wandered over to play right where the golden light was falling. I couldn't resist the opportunity to take a few photos! Hello adorable!

L

Sweet Boy

Just a couple of happy snapshots to brighten your day! This sweet boy always brightens mine!! He has been trying to say Lynley for a few months now. That about melts my heart to hear!! He and Dolly are best buddies--when they aren't sneaking snacks from Papa... they're sure to be together digging in the dirt or running through the sprinklers. I can't get enough of those deep blue eyes and long lashes. Such a sweet sweet boy!! I sure love my Lincoln bug!

L

Is that Gluten Free for You?

Miss M. is very interested in what I can and cannot eat. She's always asking, "Is that gluten free for you?" She loves when the two of us can eat the same things, and is always disappointed upon finding out that some of her favorite foods are not gluten free. Sometimes she tells her mommy she can't eat this or that, because it is not gluten free;) As concerned as she is about my diet, she is more concerned about what kind of meals I'm making for Danny. She often reminds me that he would probably like something tasty, like a cookie with gluten in it. Ha! She's got a point! Since I help watch her most afternoons, she's always curious what I will be making Danny for dinner when I go home. She offers her suggestions when she doesn't think that the option I have planned is satisfactory. "Well, maybe he would like some Cottage Cheese instead..." Yesterday she was shocked to find out that we were having sweet potatoes and squash for dinner. She looked at me with wide eyes, shaking her head, and said, "But Lynley, that's baby food! Danny is a big boy! Maybe you could make him some noodles with meatballs, or mac and cheese instead. That would be good!"

The day she found out play-dough isn't gluten free started a whole new world of curiosity and questions. She now inquires about all of her other toys to see if they are safe for her to play with around me. She's quite the caring and curious little character!

L

To Dad On His Birthday

Happy Birthday today to my dear dad! I couldn't ask for a better father! I just can't even put into words how wonderful he is. In honor of 68 remarkable years, here are 68 words that describe him. (I could go on and on!)

1. Kind

2. Generous

3. Thoughtful

4. Fun

6. Father

7. Papa (grandpa)

8. Husband

9. Loyal

10. Understanding

11. Sincere

12. Worthy

13. Gentle

14. Devoted

15. Teacher

16. Friend to all

17. Advocate

18. Intelligent

19. Gentleman

20. Humble

21. Principal

22. Honest

23. Pepsi

24. Humor

25. Patient

26. Classy

27. Faithful

28. Forgiving

29. Capable

30. Provider

31. Hard working

32. Early-to-rise

33. Cultured

34. Well-read

35. Dignified

36. Wise

37. Outgoing

38. Caring

39. Hong Kong

40. Turtle Bay, Hawaii

41. Loving-1.2.3.

42. Orem 

43. Son

44. Brother

45. Uncle

46. Green Thumb

47. Service

48. Mauri's Buddy

49. Dolly's Buddy

50. Squeeze Cheese

51. Hard Rock Shirts

52. Button Downs

53. Polos

54. Loafers

55. Hats

56. Glasses

57. Dockers, blue and tan

58. Reading the newspaper

59. CREST fountain drinks

60. Standing at the door

61. Calls to say I Love You

62. Listener

63. Honors Priesthood

64. Example

65. Fair

66. Sacrifices for faith and family

67. Truly Christlike

68. Hero to many: My Dad, My Hero.

I count it as one of the greatest blessings in my life to have such a remarkable father (and mother for that matter). Happy Birthday Dad Dowdle, I love you! 1.2.3. 

Love,

Lynley Jill Pill

Lucky To Have Him

Well aren't we just cute?! I took some family pictures over the weekend for the Johnsons while Danny's sister was in town. After lots of group shots, I asked Danny's mom to snap a few pictures of us--I'm so glad I thought to ask, because I just love them! I'm feeling pretty good about keeping my resolution to take more pictures of us together!

I'm so proud of my Danny who is now the newest member of our ward bishopric. He's simply wonderful and so willing to serve others. (Turns out being the wife of a member of the bishopric means lots of cold dinners, and sitting alone on Sundays... but I'm certain it will also bring many blessings into our family!) I'm sure proud of my Danny! I'm very lucky to have him.

L

A Sunny Day Story

It's officially winter and although we haven't had much snow, I'm pretty much ready for Spring... sigh. So, today I felt like sharing a sunny day story. (Not pictured, Miss M. taking the popsicle from her mommy in the first place.) Love the story these shots tell. Oh boy, Dolly sure was due for a haircut back then!! These are the REAL stories. Nothing posed, nothing contrived, just real life moments! Oh that sunshine and those little faces sure make me happy!!

L

Miss M Turns Three

Little Miss M turned three years old on Monday. She is such a sweet little soul! Life became so much brighter the day she was born. Three sweet sunny years!

She wanted to have a Curious George party to celebrate the big day. Her mommy Jeni made her the most adorable monkey cake! I painted her a picture to match her owl bedding from Target. Becky made her the darling little owl pillow!! The birthday girl got lots of clothes and coloring books, but I think she was most excited with the tissue paper and gift bags.

It was a very happy birthday!

L

These Two...

Lynley: "Mauri, will you please smile so I can take your picture?"

Mauri: "Um... Oh, look at that butterfly over there!"

Lynley: "How pretty!! Okay, can I take your picture now?" 

Mauri: "Lynley, you sure can't get Mauri to work right today!" 

Lincoln, on the other hand, isn't big enough to run away yet... 

These two sure make their auntie happy!

With Love,

Lynley

Lasting Love

Just made a pretty little card to say Happy 41st Anniversary to my dear parents today! I'm truly grateful for both of you! Your example of lasting love and happiness in marriage is beautiful. You are patient, thoughtful, and kind with one another. You look for the best in each other and in life. You've raised a beautiful family who love and honor you and the Lord. Here's to an eternity of happy moments together with one another and all of us who love you so much.

With Love,
L

Hello Lincoln

I'm dying over the photoshoot I had over the weekend! Top Secret Father's Day stuff or else I'd share more... Little Lincoln is TOO CUTE! I just adore him! He didn't even fuss when we put him on a suitcase to take his picture. Now that is a sweet baby!

With Love,
L

Down on the Farm

Saturday I spent most of the day over at Danny's grandma's farm. We hosted a little Girls Camp activity on the farm in the afternoon and enjoyed a family BBQ there that night. It was so lovely! After endless weeks of rain, it was a perfectly beautiful spring day! I even saw three deer scampering about in the meadows.

I must say, I just love that first photo of my little nephew Eddie with his hand on his Daddy's back... and the one with the sun setting behind my neice Audrey is just magical! She loves to pose for the camera and I certainly don't mind! Capturing moments like these is why I love photography and scrapbooking! Oh yes I do!

The evening light down by the lake is absolutely stunning! I'd LOVE to take more photos there, so let me know if you are up for a little photoshoot down on the farm! I'm telling you... it's a PRIME location for amazing shots!

With Love,
L

Lincoln

In the words of Mauri, "Isn't that baby Lincoln so CUTE?!" I had to show the picture of her in her little pink big sister scrubs. That was the look on her face the first time she saw him through the nursery window. Priceless. I never really believed in love at first sight until I became an auntie!

Love you already!
L

I Love You Mom

Today is my sweet mom's retirement party. After twenty plus years of teaching, she is ready to stay home and be a nana to her grandchildren. Mom, you have inspired me in so many ways. You are a remarkable woman. You have changed so many lives for good. Your gentle spirit and goodness has shaped the lives of hundreds of children, and I'm just lucky enough to be one of them:) Enjoy your day!

I Love You mom!

With Love,
L

Birthday Boys!

Birthday Boy #1

Yesterday was a big day for my brother Brett! It was his 30th birthday and he graduated with his Masters! We had a little photoshoot Wednesday and he looked so handsome! Mauri said he was looking sharp;) I couldn't be more proud of my big brother. He is one of my best friends and biggest heros. I look up to Brett so much! He is so kind, humble, and sincere. He is also one of the smartest people I know. His quest for knowledge has always been impressive to me. In elementary school he often asked for more homework, and even did a report on how much he loved school. In a couple of months he will set off for TCU to begin his Doctoral studies. Way to go Brett!!

Birthday Boy #2

Today is my Danny's 28th birthday! For exactly two months we will be the same age... than I'll be the older woman again, and he won't let me forget it;) I hope he has a perfect day! I remember a few years ago, before we were dating, we celebrated his birthday and I forgot to turn the oven on to bake his cupcakes. The timer rang but it still didn't smell like cake...I hurried and baked them and frosted them as people were showing up for his party. The frosting on hot cupcakes was a melted mess. Another year we had a huge party for Brett and Danny with a pinata, quesadillas, and pupsas (El Salvadorian tortillas with beans and cheese). We had karaoke too... I've yet to persuade Danny to get up and sing... someday maybe. Last year we spent his birthday in El Quilite, Mexico. I'm not sure how to top that, but I will certainly try to make it a good day for him! Happy Birthday honey, I love you more!

1,2,3

Happy Birthday Dad!

Today is Dad's birthday and I just wanted to say how grateful I am for him. He is an amazing father and I am a lucky to be his little girl (even if I am 28). Dad never hesitates to tell me he loves me. Even still, when I leave mom and dad's home, he stands at the door and counts to three, his code for I love you. He has always been right beside me when I've needed him. Dad is wise and understanding. He is charitable, generous, and kind. I only wish everyone could have a dad like mine. I am truly blessed. 1,2,3. I love you, Dad.

With Love,
L

Lookin' Good!

Just a few shots of family members at the wedding. Everyone was looking great! May I point out that Becky created the beautiful pleating and flower on her purple sweater and she made Mauri's adorable dress and cape. She is SO talented!! Someday maybe I can be like her!

Turns out I didn't really take very many pictures with the busyness (and coldness) of the day. I'm hoping McKenzie got one of Danny and I together. Otherwise, we'll just have to get dressed up again and use the old self-timer.

Looks like the sun finally came out so I can shoot the guest book pages! Stay tuned:)

With Love,
L