Monroe Files Photography | Diamonds to Diapers| DuBois, PA

Buffone Engagement | Engagement Photographer Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2012-02-10T22:03:00.000-05:00

I met Leslie while persuing my marketing at Penn State DuBois.

I met Shane in a round about way. His best friend James has been

dating on of my coworker friends from Hoss's at the time.

(James and Morgan are still dating...I am anxiously awaiting for them

to FINALLY get engaged!)

Leslie was EXTREMELY nervous about engagement pictures.

I assured her, they will be awesome. We will have TONS of fun!

Admittedly, a brewski at their favorite sports bar, Sluggers, did help a

little bit. But is in no way a requirement =]

Leslie has this OCD complex about her and Shane wearing the same shirts or

color combinations. But the Twins shirts made an exception =]

Be still my romantic heart!

They will make cutie patootie babies one day =] =] =]

But until then, meet Lula, their furbaby.

Tybee Island & Savannah Georgia | Travel Photographer Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2012-02-10T21:11:00.001-05:00

Lily's second trip to the beach. Trip number two, we dug big holes in the sand,

collected seashells and took on a big wave!

Tybee Island Lighthouse at sunrise

Mr. Pelican. I didn't realize how BIG of a bird they are until

we met this guy. He was just hanging out by himself in the

surf watching the sunrise. He really did not seem threated

and my father in law was within a foot or two of him.

There is seriously nothing cuter than sandy baby rolls!

Downtown Savannah, GA at sunset.

While in Savannah, we visited my husband's cousin, his wife and this

is their cute cute furbaby, Gizmo.

A large part of our time at the beach was spent chasing the seagulls

with a one year old and two year old. They looked like Elmira!

My little beach babe =]

Kensi | Newborn Photographer Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2012-02-03T20:53:00.000-05:00

Kensi is such a peanut!! Weighing in at 5 pounds 6 ounces, she's my tiniest newborn yet!

One of my favorite images from 2011.

This is probably a close second for favorite image of the year.

Daddy is the Fire Chief and Mommy is a firefighter too.

Needless to say, firefighting is definitely in Kensi's blood!

This little stinker refused to sleep until I was packing all my gear.

She was also being stubborn: she hated to be on her belly for a

cute butt in the air picture, but as soon as she got on her side

she was golden. Could have hung out there forever.

Ward Wedding | Wedding Photographer Monroe Files Photography, Brockport, PA

2012-02-03T20:47:00.000-05:00

Dapper junior groomsman.

Dudley seeing his bride walk the isle, so cute!

I love the Groom's face =]

You just never know what the kiddos are going to do to

keep themselves entertained during the ceremony.

Dudley and Amy's wedding was my first Friday wedding...and I loved it!!

This bride had THREE different pair of shoes for her day and two dresses.

So sweet!

They actually had quite the evening before the wedding. BOTH Dudley

and Amy were in the ER, at different times.

Amy had an alergic reaction to her antibiotics and broke out in hives! (YIKES!)

Thankfully, you couldn't tell at all. In fact, it was completely gone the morning

of the wedding day.

Dudley was hanging signs to direct wedding guests to the ceremony and reception venue.

He was using a knife and needless to say the score was Knife: 1 Dudley: 0.

About a half a dozen or so stitches later, he was in business...but he couldn't

bend his pointer finger...he had stitches on both sides (yea, went clean through! bleh!)

Breanna | Newborn Photographer Monroe Files Photography DuBois, Pa

2012-02-03T20:38:00.000-05:00

Sweet little Breanna's parents are friends with Lily's baby sitter.

Since Missy and I did nothing but talk baby while she was pregnant,

I got to sneak in this cutie patootie =]

Breanna's parents are volunteer firefighters. She is laying on Mom's coat.

So precious! And as you can see, Breanna has some crazy cowlicks

on her forehead!

Love her smooshy baby lips.

Hailey's two year portraits | Portrait Photography Monroe Files Photography Rockton, PA

2012-01-15T16:15:00.000-05:00

Hailey's first birthday she was in this same chair but wearing a tutu =]

I love her lip she's biting on.

Totally excited for her birthday coming up!

And YES she's a wild woman!

Hailey wasn't too sure of the wishing well...

...so we put stinky in there with her. (Who thought it was tons of fun!)

I believe she was singing "Ring around the rosie".

That song provides HOURS of entertainment, much to Dad's dismay!

Tea party with Dolly

Ooh Doodlebug, I can't believe you are TWO! And now so close to three.

The time seriously flies by and I can't wait to see what the future holds

for you!

Moore Family | Family Portraits Monroe Files Photography Falls Creek, PA

2012-01-15T15:58:00.000-05:00

You can see part one of Wendy and Jason's engagement here!

Wendy's two beautiful girls

This girl was dancing MACHINE at the wedding!

Totally caught them while they weren't looking =]

How cute are they?!

I know the girls had the most fun with this, myself included!

Love this! Here was where we saw the first of our wildlife adventure...a bear!

Snuggle in close! Don't let that bear get ya!

Our next adventure I had a shadow that liked to quack =]

This is the first time in all my photo sessions that I have seen a black bear,

a duck that wanted to be my assistant and a bunch of frogs! I think we did pretty good!

Moore Engagement | Engagement Photography Monroe Files Photography Falls Creek, Pa

2012-01-15T13:37:00.000-05:00

I met Wendy and Jason at the DuBois Country Club's Bridal Fair

in February of 2011.

I always ask to see if the couple has already booked a wedding photographer.

I know how overwhelming it can be, so I don't like to load up a bride

with information if they don't need it. However, if they want to

know I am happy to share =]

Wendy and Jason were to get married October 22, 2011.

This was a very popular date last year and I had had several brides visit my

table with that date.

But it was when they said it was a Halloween themed wedding

(and she was wearing the biggest blackest dress she could find!)

that I was begging for them to choose me on the inside!

Stay tuned for part 2!

Lily's trip tp the zoo! | Monroe Files Photography Pittsburgh Zoo, Pittsburgh, Pa

2012-01-13T18:07:00.000-05:00

Lily spent her first birthday at the Pittsburgh Zoo! We had a lot of fun despite it being a bit on the cool side. I'm pretty sure Lily had more fun watching all the kids than seeing the animals! =]

Sharks are cool, but SOOO give me the heebie geebies!

Saying "Hello!" to Mr. Catfish (In reality she was checking out

a little boy's toy and actually got on and took it at one point!)

Who knew peacocks like popcorn?

Hetrick Wedding June 18, 2011 | Wedding Photography Monroe Files Photography Beechwoods Restaurant & Lounge

2012-01-07T22:38:00.000-05:00

My two snow bunnies said "I do"! But the real surprise was on me when I learned my petite blushing Bride was currently 12-15 weeks pregnant! =]

LOVING the tangerine dresses....and BONUS round! They have POCKETS!

Jessie's Dad and Mom, I finally figured out where Jessie gets all of

her adorableness that Cory can't say no to!

Seriously? How silly and fun were these two?

Ow Ow Momma!

This is the only time I can say camo and orange never looked sooo good!

I did good. I managed to NOT lose a bridesmaid in the pond, 10 points!

Camo cake? CHECK!

Cory and Jessie got married at Beechwoods Restaurant and Lounge. Maybe I am baised because I had my reception there...but Dagmar is AMAZING! You want someone to do all the stressing for you? Daggie is your girl!

A dapper line up of Groomsmen.

Pro.

The gasps from the wedding guests as Jessie came around the bend in a horse and buggy, priceless!

Jessie's Dad always sports the wind blown look. =]

Jessie's brother sang phenominally and there was not a dry eye in the house.

Just love this emotion on Gram's face =]

I think this is waaaay better than the pitch fork iconic image!

Can't get married on a golf course without a trip in a golf cart!

Needless to say, the reception was filled with a lot of line dances.

I was missing my days at Texas Roadhouse. Even more so

when I realized I couldn't remember all the steps to a few of my

favorite line dances we did. *sad face*

Congratulations you two!! Your day was absolutely gorgeous and so

much has changed in your growing family since then!

More of Cory and Jessie to come =]

Quick Wedding June 25, 2011 | Wedding Photography Monroe Files Photography Bald Eagle State Park

2012-01-07T22:07:00.000-05:00

While in college at Penn State Main, I applied for a serving job at the Texas Roadhouse while it was still being built. The website showcased legenday, mouth watering food and the wait staff line danced once an hour. You had me at line dancing (ok, and the fresh baked bread with honey cinnamon butter!)

I got the call saying I was hired (BOOM!) and quickly skipped over to get my picture taken on the saddle and fill out paperwork. That evening, my roommates and I went downtown to celebrate and enjoy company with friends from out of town. This is the story of how I met Dustin.

Our first stop was the Cell Block. Our out of town friend bumped into someone she knew and after an hour of the Cell Block we were ready for a place a bit more chill. Our next and last stop of the night was the Lion's Den. On our way over, my roommate ran into her boyfriend...which left me as the third wheel. (Wah.Wah.) As I sat watching American Gladiators with a couple on either side of me making out, I was wishing I was any where but there. Then I heard, "HEEY, Luke forgot some paperwork for you to fill out." It was a quite drunk Dustin, out with two other Roadhouse employees celebrating the new store opening. Long story short, I bought them a round of shots and I quickly learned why his nickname is "El Diablo". Because he turns around from the bar with as many shots as his fingers can hold. That was 3 and a half years ago.

My two favorites were the only guests invited and we wouldn't miss it for the world! =]

Malissa was a part of the opening crew of servers. I remember her fanning herself any time a few of the managers walked past her. (3 out of 5 were good looking, IMO.) But it didn't take long to figure out which one was her favorite =] And life hasn't been the same ever since!

Dustin and Malissa had a very very small ceremony at Bald Eagle State Park, maybe a half hours drive from State College. It was a sweet and quick wedding (Not to be confused with Mal's new last name!)

This cute baby doll is Hannah, D & Mal's pride and joy.

It was so heart warming for Scott and I to see this wonderful couple finally say "I do."

The look of pride and huge smile on my husband's face was totally priceless.

How FAB is Mal's manicure?! I was in love!

Daddy kisses always tickle, those whiskers get ya!

Does Hannah have a favorite? Yes, two. Mommy and Daddy!

Two beautiful girls. May you two NOT get into nearly the amount

of shenanigans your fathers got into!

Seriously LOVE those leg rolls!!

Congratulations you two!! Scott and I couldn't be happier =]

And it's hard to believe your 6 month-aversary is creeping near!

Jenna DAHS Senior '12 | Senior Portraits Monroe Files Photography

2011-12-28T20:43:00.000-05:00

Can I just say that I can NOT believeeeeee Jenna is a senior!!

It seems like yesterday she was calling family members "Poof-in-at-icals" and "Troggle Dogs" !

One of my favorite Jenna stories has to do with movie characters.

Not being able to say "beauty"....

some of her favorite movies instantly became:

"Black Judy"

"Sleeping Judy"

and my personal favorite, "Judy & the beast" =]

Then there was the time she was pretty little, I'd guess 4 or 5, and we were helping round

up the cows for milking. She went one way and I another and after a few minutes I heard,

"AAAAAHH!! Help me! EEEE!!" Good ol' Whitey was chasing Jenna bucking and kicking.

I rerouted my course and came in for the rescue.

After the crisis was averted, I got my own for laughing and giggling at her misfortune...

my Nike sneaker in a huge pile of cow poop (Eeeeeew.)

I can't wait to see what college has in store for you!

Enjoy the last 6 months of your senior year, it

will fly by WAY fast!

Greenawalt Wedding | Smicksburg, PA Monroe Files Photography

2011-12-22T22:32:00.000-05:00

After this wedding, I had another photography bucket list item checked off: wedding at a winery!

The Greenawalt wedding took place at the Windgate Vineyards & Winery in Smicksburg, PA.

Located in the heart of Indiana County, a lot of Amish were seen in the fields

on my way there. I was a little nervous I going to get lost!

Tim and Amanda have such an easy going love for each other.

Amanda is the more wound up tight and perfectionist, while Tim brings her

back down to earth with his mellow, go with the flow out look on life.

This is their gorgeous daughter, Brooklynn. A girl after my own heart.

Lily and Brooklynn could be sisters, even more so when you see

them together! Blue eyes that draw you in and curls that

bounce...but it's the giggle that gets you!

This image doesn't do the view justice.

Brooklynn will be a big sister soon! Yes, another one

of my brides are pregnant...that makes 4 for the year =]

Simply stunning.

Pure radiant love.

I love the emotion on Amanda's face here.

They were both glowing and truly enjoying

their wedding day.

The cutest growing family!

Bride's request and it turned out fantastic!

Love, love, love

Stealing a few quiet moments before it's time to party

with family and friends!

By far my favorite from the day!

Congratulations you two! TWICE! Can't wait to meet Baby Greenawalt in a few short months!

Hailey turns 2! | Monroe Files Photography Rockton, PA

2011-12-20T20:10:00.000-05:00

What does a two year old need for an awesome birthday?

Peanut butter fudge lady bugs on cup cakes!

(They were DELISH by the way!)

Cutest two year old I know, look at those dimples!

And that's one GIANT cup cake!

After singing "Happy Birthday" Hailey's cousins made a beeline for the cupcakes!

Lily was more excited to make noises with the balloons!

Drooling black mess =] Love her!

PRESENTS!

Cool chic! Shades for Savannah, GA

Becca | Portrait Photographer Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-12-20T19:50:00.002-05:00

It's crazy what changes in a few short years. Two Christmas's ago I bought my twelve year old sister make up. The world hasn't been the same ever since! It feels like overnight Becca went from this cute curly haired little girl that loved to eat mints, craft and be goofy into a total model. I actually felt bad, because I feel like I stole my mom's youngest baby and forced her into adulthood. (Really, I didn't! I swear!)

She's only 14 !! I wish I looked like that at 14.

I was this geeky unproportionate thing. Well, it wasn't THAT bad,

but I DO know I wasn't blessed with long legs that go on for miles.

I will forever be a gymnast while Becca is an elegant ballerina.

I look like my Grammy K. and I'm still trying to figure out

where Becca came from =] It's a good thing though!

I bet a lot more boys will ride the bus to school if this was part of

the bus company's ad campaign!

I often wonder what Lily will blossom into as time marches on.

While I see myself and her Daddy in her...I see her Aunt Becca too.

Oh, and I constantly remind myself...the shenanigans I get Becca into...

will most likely be paid back with the shenanigans Becca gets Lily into!

There are 12 years between Becca and myself.

There are 13 years between Becca and Lily.

Funny how life works out like that!

If Tyra Banks is out there listening...Becca would love to come model for you!

This is what happens in a matter of 60 seconds and a million camera clicks.

It was the scene straight out of the Austin Powers movie..."ANNNND I'm spent!" =]

Leather Wedding | Wedding Photography Monroe Files Photography Reynoldsville, Pa

2011-12-12T21:22:00.001-05:00

Liz and I met in color guard while in High School. We've shared tears of joy, tears of defeat and all the crazy that comes from band and color guard personalities. Liz was always a glass half full kind of person. It didn't matter if we just came in third, she dropped her rifle and her b/f dumped her all in the same day...there was ALWAYS something to smile about and be thankful for. To see Liz down in the dumps was a rare occasion and few and far between.

Liz is the kind of girl that goes after something with her whole heart and commits 110%. She stands by her friends through thick and thin and was always there to hug you through it.

Throughout the years, I've seen alot of her boyfriends come and go, sometimes on

her termination and sometimes not.

Seeing someone so cheerful and full of life with so much love to give

yet they go through heart ache time and again is discouraging.

I always knew someday she would find her Prince Charming and he would be all

that she'd been waiting for and more...it just wasn't time yet.

I've only known Bill a very short while and I can tell you that he and Liz make a perfect match.

Bill and Liz are so sweet on each other. Truly happy and they just GET each other.

Their day was full of tears, laughter and great joy.

It's such a priviledge as a photographer to be invited into the day

these beautiful couples say "I do."

Each wedding day plays out each couple's unique love language and

it's so heart touching to watch it unfold and learn the ins and outs

of their family and friends.

Bill and Liz had a perfect day, even when one of the bridesmaids

was in the hospital giving birth to their first child!

(Becky, we missed you!!)

Congratulations you two! May many years of love and laughter be in

store for such a wonderful couple.

And if you ever need any advice for those bumps along the road...

...I'm sure this other wonderful couple you know would love to

guide you along the this crazy thing they call love =]

Montini Belly | Maternity Photographer, DuBois, PA Monroe Files Photography

2011-11-25T22:37:00.000-05:00

TEN LITTLE TRUTHS ABOUT PREGNANCY

1. nine months feels like the blink of an eye and forever all at the same time…. 2. no matter how uncomfortable you feel with your body, you’ll miss being pregnant later….. 3. feeling your bay kick for the first time is similar to your first kiss, all butterflies and smiles…. 4. pillows are sent from heaven & can help you get a few comfortable moments in bed every night…. 5. a glass of wine every now & then is really okay…. 6. nap whenever the feeling comes over you, when your little ones arrives you can only rest when they do…. 7. rub oils & lotions on your beautiful belly all the time, even if it cannot prevent stretch marks, it sure feels nice…. 8. chocolate is a critically important food group…. 9. appreciate your breasts, nursing will change them forever….10. pregnancy is as sexy as you want it to be, so wear your little lacy night gown & love every little bit of your amble curves…..

I'm alive!!!

2011-10-23T19:32:00.001-04:00

Hi gang! I know it's been a while, like 6-8 weeks, since I have last been here and I wanted to let ya'll
know that I am alive and kicking! Yesterday was not only my last of 4 weddings in a row but my last

wedding of the season! Woohoo! I love weddings, but after 4 in a row...I can't stand to eat another piece

of cake =] So needless to say, I have been extremely busy. I have LOADS of images to share. Please be patient!

I'm sure ya'll are dying to know WHO won the Engagement Story contest!! I had over a thousand votes and want to thank each and every one of you for making Monroe Files Photography's first contest a total success!

I am already scheming ideas for next year, please stay tuned! All the couples who entered the contest had a very unique story and I would have LOVED to photograph each of you! Those who did not win this time around are more than welcome to enter the next contest as long as you fit the requirements.

SOOOO....with out further tongue wagging....our grand prize winning couple was....

Ashley & Paul!!

2nd place

Megan & Mike!

3rd place...

Haley & Jim!

Congratulations to all our winning couples!

I have MORE news to announce! Monroe Files Photography will be at the DuBois Country Club's

Bridal Fair on Sunday October 30th from 1-3pm. You can pre-register and see all

the vendors scheduled to be in attendance at http://dccbridalshows.com/

Don't miss your chance to meet ME, see all Monroe Files has to offer and show only specials!

PS. I will be in costume, look for the candy cane witch! =]

Engagement Story Contest Poll is OPEN!! | Monroe Files Photography

2011-09-10T23:46:00.000-04:00

I hope you have your favorite couple picked out and your voter finger is ready!!

There are two ways to vote:

1. Online poll
Click here to take survey

2. Facebook likes
Monroe Files Photography on Facebook

Voting will end September 17th at midnight!!!

The winners will be decided based on a combination of poll votes and facebook likes.

For anyone who missed the entries:

Part 1

Part 2

Make sure you share the links with your family and friends...they decide who wins! =]

Thank you and good luck to all who entered!!

Engagement Story Contest Part 2 | Monroe Files Photography, DuBois, PA

2011-09-09T20:28:00.000-04:00

Welcome to part TWO of the Engagement Story contest! Here is Part 1 for those who missed it.

Voting will open Sunday, with two ways to vote:
. Cast your vote in the online Survery right here
. Cast your "like" on facebook

YOU determine the winners! Votes will be tallied and prizes given out to the top 3 fan favorites.

Can't remember what awesome prizes are up for grabs?? Let me jog your memory =]

Grand Prize:
Full Portrait session with a complimentary 16x20 canvas wrap, ready to hang on your wall!

2nd runner up:
Mini session with complimentary accordian mini album that fits in your purse (think brag book, but cooler!)

3rd runner up:
$75.00 gift certificate to Monroe Files Photography

And now, onto what you've all been waiting for...our second round of stories!! =] =] =]

Jennifer & Bruce

"In the fall of 2008, freshly graduated from Penn State, I moved home to begin my

teaching career at my childhood elementary school. That same fall as Halloween

approached my mom began babysitting for friends of ours. Ava, 5, and Landon, 3, were

sweet little handfuls that we absolutely fell in love with, and they immediately became

a part of our family. As the holiday drew near I was filled with full-fledged Halloween

spirit and eagerly dressed up to celebrate the day with my students. So into school I go…

bright red, poufy polka dot dress, red high heels, and huge (and I mean old-school

satellite HUGE) mouse ears! Minnie Mouse had arrived! Of course my fifth graders loved

having their teacher dressed up like such a loon, and at the end of my crazy day I

inched home PRAYING that I wouldn’t get pulled over by the cops in my ridiculous

get-up. Thinking that girly-girl Ava would love to see my outfit, I made a quick

pit-stop at her house for a little “pre-trick-or-treat” surprise.

Reaching their house, I repeatedly knocked on the door with no luck. Just as I

convinced myself that Kylie and the kids must be out scouring for candy already,

into the driveway pulls a car. Hopeful that it’s them I turn around, but much to my

dismay no kids get out. As it turns out, Kylie and her extremely good-looking

older brother, Bruce, were arriving home from a gambling trip, and there I stand…

alone in the driveway…whiskers and all. Of course Bruce finds this to be HYSTERICAL!

Definitely not the ideal first impression I would like to have made! That Halloween

“Princess Belle” Ava and “UPS Man” Landon loved seeing Minnie Mouse show

up at their grandma’s house, where they were staying, and with Bruce in tow it

definitely turned out to be an embarrassing trick-or-treating “first date”

that I would never forget!

As the result of my buddy Ava playing match-maker, her Uncle Brucie and I had

been together for almost two years as the fall of 2010 arrived. Let me precursor

this by saying that I am a very, and I mean VERY hard person to surprise. However,

Bruce managed to get one over on me, and on a series of “work trainings” to

State College he purchased a ring, waiting for just the right time to propose.

Being the sly, conscientious person he is, Bruce asked for my dad’s blessing

one night after shooting guns (probably not the smartest thing timing) and proceeded

to tell my mom that the only way he’s going to be able to pull off the proposal is

to “make me angry.” And that he did…

I come home from work Friday afternoon completely EXHAUSTED and anxious

to make my way to State College for the Penn State homecoming festivities.

Immediately, I sank into the tub for a relaxing soak to wash off the stress of the

day before heading to Bruce’s mom’s house in Bellefonte for a late dinner. Turns out,

Bruce suggests that I drive and promptly informs me that we will be meeting his

friend Curtis on campus that evening to drop off a bag of DVD’s. Tired, starving,

and slightly cranky I make the trek to State, fighting traffic, only to find that the

entire Homecoming Parade is marching through campus, and “Curtis” wants to

meet us at Old Main after work. So what do I do? Bitch and complain what a

moron Curtis is for expecting us to meet him on campus at 9:00 and fight a

crowd of thousands just for a freaking bag of DVD’s. Well anyone who knows

Penn State knows that when we party, we PARTY, so of course we make it nowhere

NEAR Old Main. I finally find a place to park and Bruce leads me to the dimly-lit

Eastview Terrace to await Curtis’s arrival. And so we sit and wait…and wait…and

30 minutes later I am still waiting, still starving, and still exhausted. All around me

is a beautiful, dimly-lit terrace with a cascading stairway and balconies

overlooking the twinkling lights of downtown State College. The night was a perfect

fall evening, with a cool breeze rustling the brightly-colored trees. And what am I

doing at this point? Taking in the relaxing ambiance? Why of course not! I’m

stretched out on the stairs, leather jacket thrown over my shoulder, hair a mess,

SMOKING A CIGAR (so very lady-like)!

In the meantime Bruce is strolling around the terrace, trusty bag of stupid DVD’s

in tow, laughing about my mounting irritation for Curtis. Just as I’m about to

thoroughly lose my patience and storm off, Bruce points behind me and says, “Hey, is

that Curtis?” Of course by that time my response to him is, “It better as hell be

Curtis, I’m tired and hungry and I am sooooo ready to get out of here!” Of course,

when I turn around no one is there, and as I turn back to Bruce there he kneels on

the steps in front of me, HUGE smile on his face, with the gorgeous ring he had

picked out for me months before. He was so excited that as soon as our eyes met he asked,

“Will you marry me?” In that moment all my stress melted away, and with tears

rolling down my cheeks I managed to squeak out a “yes” through the kisses.

Needless to say, when we got to his mom’s house she met us screaming in the

driveway, and Curtis, catching wind of what was going on (by randomly texting

Bruce mid-proposal) shows up angry that I got so mad at him. Before enjoying

the rest of our “relaxing” evening, Bruce and I made one phone call, just to Ava.

As I told her that Uncle Bruce asked me to marry him she squealed, after all, she

had been asking him to do it for two years now. That, by far, was the best part of it all."

***

Cristian & Jesse

"One of the most romantic and creative engagement stories is our own.

We took a trip to Georgia with our friend Amanda to see friends and family.

On the second day, we went hiking on a trail that was very special to us. There was

a particular bench that was important to us. It was a place where we really got to

know each other in the beginning, where we really first connected.

The three of us started on the trail, but a couple minutes into it Amanda had to run

back to her car for new camera batteries and to take a phone call. We went on

ahead and slowly strolled along the trail. We paused to carve our initials into a

lookout (I know, super lame, but I thought it was cute). As one, we finished the first of

two trails then we went looking for Amanda, and couldn't seem to find her anywhere.

As we wandered further searching for her, I looked far ahead of us and saw her

decorating the bench. At first I was extremely confused as to what she was doing.

We walked a little closer and it became clear to me what was about to happen.

What she did was beautiful. Shear fabric draped over the bench, flowers everywhere,

rose petals on the ground, stars tied in the trees… I couldn't have thought of anything

like that myself. I began to cry and Jesse grabbed my hand. He led me over to the

bench and we sat down. To the left of us I noticed a bucket with balloons tied to it.

Jesse proceeded to pop the first balloon and inside was a piece of paper with one

place where he first started falling in love with me on it. He continued popping the

balloons until he reached the last one. The last one was the bench we were sitting on.

He wrote a beautiful letter to me and read it aloud. I was, of course, crying like a

baby the entire time. After he read the letter he got down on one knee and asked me

if I would marry him. I don't recall saying an audible yes, but I did nod (Later he asked

me just to double check). He held my hand and slid the ring on my finger. The entire

thing was so unexpected and I never thought it would be as amazing as it was."

***

Alexandrea & Shawn

"We had been dating for four years and had a beautiful baby girl together. I had been

on his case to get married since the day we had our daughter the previous year. On October 4,

we were on vacation at the Outer Banks in North Carolina. The day was starting out like

any other vacation day, we always got up bright and early and cooked a big breakfast

then we spent the whole day at the beach by the water. This year was a little different

because both our family were vacationing together, so there were a lot of people. Thus it

took a little longer to get everything ready to go. We finally got everything ready right before

lunch and were headed to the beach. I wasn’t a very happy about it taking so long to get on the beach but it was the beach, so I brushed it off. We are having a great time and I noticed Shawn

seemed to be avoiding my daughter & I and he was spending a lot of time out in the

ocean with my dad. It didn’t bother me much because I thought they were just spending time together.

Time went by, all enjoying the fabulous day, and Shawn told me he had to poop, that he was

going to the condo and would be right back. I told him, ‘whatever. Why did I care if he had to crap?’ Roughly an hour went by and Shawn hadn’t returned. As the families were talking, I mentioned

how I was getting worried about him and that I should go check on him. But my uncle said

he would go see what was going on and as he got to the top of the dock there was Shawn. When Shawn got to where I was sitting I asked, ‘What happened? Did you fall in?’ His reply was ‘no I just

don’t feel too good.’ so I went back to talking to my grandma who was sitting to my right.

Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Shawn get on his knee and he said, ‘Alex, I got something

we need to talk about.’ I turned, then he asked, ’will you marry me?’ I couldn’t say anything.

I just cried. I couldn’t even say yes I was crying so hard, I had to shake my head yes. I was so

happy but at the same time embarrassed…because his whole family and my whole family

were watching us. It was the greatest day ever.

I found out that he had bought the ring three weeks prior, on a day we were to go

shopping in Clearfield together and he backed out of it to go with his mom to look for

the a ring. He also told me that his mom and my dad where the only ones that knew that it

was going to happen at the beach because his mom went with him to buy it and he asked

my dad for my hand in marriage. He originally planned a romantic sun raise proposal but

my dad told him that if he was going to ask me he had to do it in front of the families.

So that’s how his poop story came about. He was only planning to be gone like five minutes

but his mom forgot to keep the door unlocked and he had to find a way to break in and get the ring! That’s why it took so long, but when it comes to it neither of us would change a thing!"

***

Megan & Mike

"On July 24, 2011, after 4 years of dating, Mike planned the whole proposal out.

He had my best friend tell me three weeks prior to July 24 that he had talked to her and told

her he was going to propose to me on August 10. Needless to say I was counting down!!!!

On July 24, I had a Purse Party that day and he was supposed to meet me after. And my best

friend from DuBois and her fiance were coming down and we were all going to go out to dinner.

I told him to meet us at 4. Well needless to say, he didn't show up. He called me frantically saying

that his car had broken down and I had to rush to Alameda Park because none of his family

could come get him.

So, I rushed down and I pulled up to the back of his blazer as he had instructed me to

do because the hood was supposedly smoking. I saw a sign that said "Go to the Hood".

I cautiously did thinking that he was going to jump out. Then there was a sign on the hood

that said “follow the rope”. I followed this rope and it came to my surprise that the shelter was

decorated and there was no Mike in sight. He decorated a shelter at Alameda Park with

candles and potpourri. He had a rose and a wrapped gift at the end of the shelter. I read the

card and the gift was a framed poem that he had written me.

As soon as I turned around, he walked up behind me and gave me a little speech and then asked

me to marry him. It was so wonderful and perfect (except for the fact he dropped the ring since he opened the box upside down and he didn't notice it!). It was better than anything I ever imagined!"

***

Sarah & Josh

"By October of 2010 Josh and I had been dating for just over two and a half years.

We had developed the reputation of being the couple who was always on the go,

which was appropriate because most of our weekends were filled with excursions to

see family and friends. We had also developed the reputation of being the ultimate

weddings guests. Not that there was anything special about our attendance at weddings,

it was just that we had been to a LOT of weddings in the past two and a half years-thirteen to be exact!

Josh and I had discussed marriage and becoming engaged a lot in the past year,

so I knew that we would be getting engaged, I just didn’t know WHEN. Although Josh

may not have known it, it was, admittedly driving me a little crazy. I KNEW I wanted to

spend the rest of my life with him and I knew he felt the same so WHAT WAS HE WAITING

FOR?! As 2011 began to fill up with weddings, first the summer, then the fall, I began to

think that even if we did get engaged any time soon (which I really didn’t think was

going to happen) we would not be able to get married until 2012. I may have patience

for a lot of things, but I was being very impatient about this.

Little did I know that while I was doing the “will he, won’t he” song in my head, Josh

already had his plans in motion. In September of 2010 I had vacationed to the beach

for a week with Josh’s mom, sister, and aunt. While we were enjoying the sun and the sand,

Josh used the opportunity of my absence to go and purchase my engagement ring. I found

out (after the fact, of course) that Josh’s mom and sister had been taking secret calls

and texts from Josh while we were at the beach that week. When I was in the shower,

they were looking through my jewelry trying to get an idea of my ring size. Sneaky!

Immediately upon my return from the beach, Josh and I had a wedding to attend.

While at the reception Josh and I began talking about our own “someday” wedding. I told

him how I didn’t think we would be able to get married until at least 2012 because of all

the weddings we were taking part in during the upcoming year. Josh brushed it off as if it

were no big deal, which bothered me a little bit, so I dropped the subject and went to use the

restroom. While I was gone, Josh proceeded to tell all our friends sitting at our table that

he had the ring and planned to propose in a few weeks. In fact, Josh told the majority

of his family and our friends about his plans to pop the question.

Fast forward to the second weekend of October. Josh and I had plans to go up to his camp

in Cameron County for the weekend. We both like going up in the fall, me especially,

because of the beautiful fall foliage. As usual, we extended the invite to any of our friends

and family who wanted to join us for the weekend. Normally a few of our friends or some

of Josh’s family will join us, but for this particular weekend we had probably about 25

people joining us for some, or all, of the weekend. I kept commenting how it just “worked out”

that everyone had free time that weekend to join us, not realizing that Josh had let

them in on his plans.

We arrived at camp close to sunset on Friday, October 8th. I told Josh that I was

okay with waiting until the next day to go up and look at the leaves, but he was insistent

that we go that evening. We headed up to our “lookout spot” up on top of the one

of the nearby mountains. In previous years we had gone up there to see the leaves because

you have a breathtaking view of the whole valley and all the trees. Once we got up there,

we both hopped out and I started taking pictures. Josh doesn’t have a camera, but he does

have a mini digital camcorder, which he “conveniently” brought to “film the leaves.”

After about ten minutes, Josh set up the video camera on the hood of the SUV and joined

me to look out over the valley. It was just a gorgeous view with the leaves in bright reds

and oranges and the sun setting behind the mountains. As we’re standing there Josh starts

talking about how we should come back to this same spot every year. I agreed, saying

we had already started that tradition because this was the third year we had come up. He then

said that we needed a better reason to return to that spot every year and I jokingly asked

him what that reason should be. He then got down on one knee, pulled out the ring, and said

“Sarah Brown, will you marry me?” To say I was shocked was an understatement. I started

jumping and crying and said “YES!” before giving him a huge hug and kiss. After more

hugging, kissing, and picture taking, Josh popped the bottle of champagne he had

hiding under the backseat of the vehicle. As we toasted to the new chapter in our lives,

I slowly started to realize that the reason for all our guests this weekend must have been

because of our engagement. When I asked Josh about it, he told me the whole story,

starting with him looking at rings (almost a year ago!) and ending with his plan to

have as many family and friends as possible at camp to celebrate with us. And celebrate

we did, and will. After being guests at nineteen different weddings together, we’ll say

“I do” on New Year’s Eve!"

***

Kathy & Brian

"Years ago when my husband, Brian, and I had only been dating for a few months,

we attended a friend's wedding in the fall. We were talking about details from the

wedding the next day while we were driving. Brian, always kidding around, said jokingly

"If you buy me a house and a truck I just might marry you." And the conversation took

off from there... he wanted a big house, a nice truck and a yard made out of bricks painted

green so it had the look of grass, but he didn't have to mow. We laughed and kept adding

details to the list all day. Little did he know I was filing all this away in my head so I

could play a joke on him sometime in the future.

Fast forward a couple months to early February. I got the idea to give Brian his dream

house and truck for Valentine's Day and see what his reaction would be. So I went to a

local hobby shop and bought the nicest house I could find (it was a house meant for a

train display), then I was off to buy him a brand new truck (Matchbox of course). I brought

them home and mounted the house and truck on a platform I had made with the "fake yard

he didn't have to mow" and I was all set. I couldn't keep the secret to myself so I told

Brian's Mom what I was planning to do and she laughed and said "It'll serve him right!"

Brian and I were planning on going out to dinner for Valentine's Day so I drove to his

Mom's house to meet him. He started down the porch steps and I told him to go back

in the house I had a surprise for him, but I also wanted his Mom to see his reaction. So

once we were inside I asked him "Do you remember what you told me about buying you a

house and a truck?" And he said "I remember something about a house and a truck,

but I don't remember exactly what I said." So I reminded Brian what he had said about

marrying me and handed him his new house and truck. We all had a good laugh, and

then we headed out to go to dinner.

Once we were in Brian's truck he handed me a box and said "Here's your Valentine's

Day present." I opened the box and inside was a heart-shaped box of candy. I told him

thank you, and he said "They're peanut butter melt-a-ways, try one." So I opened the

box to get a piece of candy and inside was a diamond ring and he said "Well, will you marry me?"

I said yes and we laughed and laughed because neither of us knew what the other had planned,

but it couldn't have worked out more perfectly.

It's been 17 years now and we still laugh about that Valentine's Day.

Brian still has his dream house and truck and hasn't had to mow the grass once!"

***

Ashley & Paul

"When I first met Paul I would have never imagined that he would be the guy

I would marry and spend the rest of my life with.

I met Paul when I started working at Sensus. At first he worked in a different department

and we only talked slightly on breaks, nothing major. But then he was moved to the

same department as me and then right next to me,- LOL- So that just means we spent

A LOT of time together and had LOTS of time to get to know each other.

We actually dated different people off and on. We watched each other go through some

heart aches and let downs, but we always had each other to talk to. I didn’t realize I

had deeper feelings for Paul till he was starting to get closer to another girl. I found myself

getting very jealous, and wanting to spend more time with him outside of work, and it helps

doing that when you hang out in some of the same places with a few same friends.

I’m not sure where we made the transition from just friends to dating. I guess some times

that kind of thing just happens. But I do remember he asked me to be his girlfriend the

same day my god son was born. I guess you could call it a good day for me!

Paul and I got engaged about a year after he asked me to be his girlfriend. I remember

us talking about marriage and getting engaged and if we would want a long or short

engagement. It never really went anywhere, but that didn’t stop me from dropping the hints

that I was ready when he was. We even stopped by Kays and looked at rings. But it was

always “too expensive right now” or “now I know what to look for when the time comes.”

The night Paul asked me to marry him. He asked me to go out for dinner at Luigis.

He showed up with beautiful pink roses! And then when we got there he had reserved

the loft table so we could be alone. We had a great dinner and when we were walking

down the steps to leave he reached the bottom and turned around, I seen the box in his

hand and he was bending down to get on his knee. I kept saying “ oh no you don’t, don’t

do this to me” (I HATE HATE HATE being the center of attention) So before he says

anything I start running up the steps so no one would see me .. so there he is in front of everyone

in the restaurant on knee with ring saying “ Ashley Nicole get down here now!” my reply was

“not till u get up and put that thing away” so he walks up the steps gets to where I’m standing,

gets on his knee and asks me to marry him” I said yes! Put the ring on and we walk down

the steps with a couple tables of people staring at us, when a lady sitting at a table

staring says “WELL” and Paul says “oh yea she said yes.” and that is my engagement story!"

***

So there you have it peeps! Part two is in the books. Make sure you pick out your favorites and get those voting fingers ready!! =]

Engagement Story Contest Part 1 | Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-09-09T07:34:00.001-04:00

Ok gang! Here is the first installment of stories to feast your romantic hearts on! Originally, I had planned on narrowing it down to 5 based on categories. However. Each category was not represented in the submissions I received. SO...I said to heck with the categories! Anyone who took the time to submit their story and photo are in it to win it!! BOO-YHAA!! (Bet you're wishing you submitted your story, huh?) =]

Keep checking back right HERE to see when the polls open for voting!
Please note that couples are listed randomly and in no specific order.

Roxy & Shawn

"Shawn and I had been together for a little over two years.

He always told me that he didn't want to get married until he had a house of his own.

Obviously, I started house-searching soon after that comment. After months of looking

at houses, putting in bids, and buying kitchen utensils and storing them in my

childhood bedroom, we finally bought a house together. I thought this

meant the engagement was coming soon.

After living together over 6 months, I was starting to get frustrated. Easter weekend,

we went to visit my mom in New York. On our last day there, we stopped to

visit my grandparents. Although I did have a "promise ring," my grandma spent

the day ragging Shawn that he "needed to put a ring on my finger." I was starting

to feel bad for him because she was not letting off.

We got home Saturday night and were supposed to go out with some of Shawn's friends

who were in town. I was getting ready and Shawn came in and told me there was

something on the bed for me. I went into the room as he went out to the kitchen. On the bed

was a plastic Easter egg. I opened it up to find my favorite candy (raspberry and

blackberry gummy candies) and in the middle of the candies was my beautiful ring.

He came into the bedroom and got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. :) :)

I cried, said yes, hugged him, and blast texted everyone I knew a picture of the ring.

He told me afterwards that he was planning on waiting until Easter morning,

but all of his friends knew his plans and he was afraid they would spill

the beans after a few too many beverages. :)"

***

Mitchel & Katie

"I met my fiancé Katie on plentyoffish.com and we have been together

now for almost two years. We are getting married on March 10, 2012

and our engagement was definitely interesting.

I got my hands on this old custom ring that has a heart shaped setting and is

definitely one of a kind. The thing about it was, it didn't have a diamond. I had

my hands on the ring for about a week and it was burning a hole in my pocket…

but I didn't know exactly what kind of diamond to put in it.

Labor Day weekend I decided I'm going to do it and told all my buddies what I

was going to do and they laughed.

Katie and I were sitting there on Sunday night just watching movies. I was so

nervous because I was really going to ask her to marry me with a ring that didn't have

a diamond. I decided “well here goes nothing” and said, ‘hey we need to talk’ and she

asked me what was on my mind. I told her, ‘so you know how I have been saying WHEN

I marry you lately, not IF I marry you’ (because I started saying ‘when we're married’ or

‘when you’re my wife’ and she picked up on it) and I said ‘Well yea…so what do you say?’

and handed her the box. She opened the box and started laughing!

And I said ‘hear me out. I'm off tomorrow with it being Labor Day. Let’s head up to Rossi's

jewelers in the middle of Dubois and you can pick out your own diamond.’ So that was

exciting because I found a one of a kind ring and she got to pick out her cut of diamond.

And to clarify, I'm not a complete looser because the ring had a rock in three days!

It all worked out and now we are well on our way to start out a great marriage."

***

Dawn & Wilber

"Wilbur and I had met at work, dated for a while and things didn’t work out.

So we both went our own ways. I left that job to pursue my career path as a paramedic.

Unknown to me, Wilbur became an EMT and started to work for an ambulance service

nearby. Wilbur was one of the people I thought of all the time and kept wondering if I gave

up on my one chance of happiness. Well a couple years later we were reconnect by a mutual

friend. About a year after that, Wilbur was involved with a tragic call and required some

Critical Incident Stress Debriefing. While talking with the counselor he decided he wanted to

move into the next phase of his life and ask me to marry him.

On July 24, 2007 (my birthday) he took me to dinner at Luigi’s. I knew something was up

because he was a nervous wreck and had his hand in his pocket most of the night. Dinner was

pretty awkward and I could tell he was very nervous. At this point I figured out what was going

on and of course had to act like I didn’t have a clue. Well I was getting excited all through

dinner but dinner came and went and no proposal. So we left Luigi’s and he said he had to

run into Martin’s for a minute. He went in and came out empty handed. At this point I

was very confused.

So we go back to my house and are sitting on the couch. He kept putting his hand in

his pocket and fidgeting around. We are making idle chit chat, once again it is

pretty awkward. Well Kirby, my lab mix, always loved Wilbur. Well that night he was all

over Wilbur and kept sticking his nose into the now famous pocket and kept nudging him.

It is almost as if he was telling him to just do it. I found this hysterical but couldn’t let on

that I knew what was in that pocket. After awhile of this I couldn’t take it anymore

and started to crowd him to one end of the couch and nudging him onto his knee on the floor.

Finally with Kirby and my help, he got onto his knee and asked me to marry him.

Of course, I started to cry (because that is what I do) and he got all teary eyed and I said yes.

Then he proceeds to tell me what the original plans were for the night and

how they back fired. He and some co workers had planned the big night for about a week.

They made a “ring holder” out of plastic and the plan was he was going to excuse himself

to go to the restroom, find a waitress have her put the ring on a piece of cake and bring

it to me. Well that was all fine until they sat us right beside the bathroom so he couldn’t

do that. He thought about getting down on one knee right then and there and doing it,

but said there were too many people and he didn’t comfortable doing it. So we went to

Martin’s and he was going to buy a cupcake and put it on. Well Martin’s didn’t have

any cupcakes, so plan B was shot (what are the chances). So he had to go to plan C,

which he didn’t have. I love how plan C worked out and can’t think of a more special

place to be proposed to. Every day, whether I am watching TV, sweeping the floors or

walking by I get to see the special place where my wonder life as a wife and mother began.

We were married October 18, 2008. On our honeymoon one week later, our son

Ethan Thomas was conceived and our crazy but wonderful life as a family began.

We were not given much of an opportunity to be just husband and wife, instead there

was a bigger plan for us and that was to be mommy and daddy. People say that we

shouldn’t have started our family so soon after getting married but I disagree with them.

Our life turned out perfect and I am truly blessed to have the two most amazing boys

in the world in it."

***

Nicole & Casey

"We didn’t have a lot of money to buy a ring but Casey wanted to make sure it was

the perfect one. He searched and searched for about two year when we finally decided to

just book the wedding with the ring. We were ready! We planned our wedding for

November, 2008 in Montego Bay, Jamaica.

Casey wouldn’t let me say we were engaged until he had a ring for me and asked for my hand.

The prices in the stores were just too much for us. We finally decided to purchase the ring

on ebay where we could get a deal. Casey did a lot of research on the different sellers,

their feedback, and return policy.

Finally, three months later the perfect one came up, and after a quick bidding war at

the end, it was ours! They were going to size it and send it off in two weeks. A few weeks

later after working an overnight, Casey and I were sleeping in bed when I heard a knock

at the door at 8:30am. Normally I would just ignore it after only going to bed a few

hours earlier, but I had a feeling I knew what it was. I ran to the door and signed

for the package. Casey came out and wouldn’t let me open it. He opened the package

and then the ring box. “Looks good”, he said. Then after torturing me for about an hour

by giving me the box but taking the ring out of he said, “Whelp, I’m going back to bed”!

He said he would ask me when he was good and ready and I had better say yes because

he was only asking once.

We went back to bed and a few hours later we were up for the day. Casey suggested we

go to Red Lobster for dinner. So I showered and started getting ready. While I was still

in the bathroom straightening my hair, Casey comes in and says, “Bebo, will you marry me?”

I turn and he is on one knee in his white t-shirt, shocks, and underwear!

Of course, I said yes! So, we got engaged while I was in the bathroom and Casey was

in his underwear. Pure Casey style! I wouldn’t have had it any other way!

P.S. I did take the ring to a jeweler in town and they verified the ring was real

and of amazing quality! They wanted to know where we got it but I wouldn’t

give away my secret!"

***

Haley & Jim

"On Tuesday August 9, 2011, my boyfriend and I were vacationing with my family

at Atlantic Beach, North Carolina. He had asked me to enjoy a drink on the beach

with him. This wasn't anything out of the ordinary because the night before we had

sat on the beach gazing at the stars together. There was a full moon and it was

beautiful out as we sat on my beach towel and sipped on drinks we talked about how

much we enjoyed our lives with one another. Out of nowhere he got up off of the

towel and wrote in the sand in giant letters, "I Love You" and drew a heart.

I couldn't stop smiling and told him how sweet it was of him to write that message

for me in the sand. He asked me to go for a walk with him along the ocean and to

look for sea shells. We walked along the beach as the waves crashed in at our feet,

every few feet we'd stop and kiss. I told him I wanted to go look for sea shells

and I walked off, little did I know what he was up to when I was looking for sea shells.

He caught up with me, reaching for my hand as we continued our walk.

I asked him if we could start heading back, on our way back to our stuff on the

beach he would stop and kiss me more and more. He kept telling me that he

couldn't imagine his life without me in it and that he would never want to spend a

day without me. He stopped me from walking and hugged me so tight he

whispered in my ear, "I want this moment to last forever!"

He turned me around and said, "I wrote another message in the sand for you!"

As I read the words, "Will you marry me?" wrote in the sand, I turned around and he

was down on one knee with the ring in his hand. He said, "Haley, I absolutely love you,

will you marry me?" As I said, "yes" he slipped the ring on my finger and we

clenched one another in the tightest hug!

After the proposal I found out that he had bought the ring 6 months ago, but was

waiting for "the perfect moment" to give it to me! We cannot wait to marry

one another and we're planning our wedding for next August!"

***

Sasha & TJ

"TJ and I had been dating for a year this past Christmas. We both had

spent so much money on his son for Christmas that we didn't get each

other much but a few little things. We were going to Hawaii in the

middle of January and that was our real Christmas presents to each other.

About the middle of November, we started looking at rings that I would

like. We finally found the perfect ring, and decided that he should

buy it. They had to send the ring away for sizing, so I didn't even

get to see it when he bought it. I didn't know that the ring had come

in, and was actually a little bit upset that all I was getting for

Christmas from him was a bottle of perfume. I thought for sure, that

he would propose to me when we were on the beach in Hawaii on vacation.

On Christmas morning, everyone had opened all of their presents and

had deserted the room that the Christmas tree was in at his mom's

house. I was finishing cleaning up the rest of the wrapping paper

that my step son and niece had everywhere when he sent his son out of

the room with his sister, and he said he had one more present for me.

And there on the Christmas tree was a little gold wrapped box that he

grabbed and opened as he got down on one knee took my hand, tears

filled my eyes as he said, "Sasha, will you marry me?" , I said "Yes"

and was bawling as I gave him the biggest bear hug ever. He couldn't

breath because I was squeezing him so hard! I was so excited and

happy to be asked to be the future Mrs. Timothy Fetterman!

We have been busy making plans and are getting married on July 14th 2012."

***

Aimee & Matt

"It was May 1st, right before finals and I had a TON of work to do including

handing in my thesis proposal. However, I really needed to unwind and do something

fun so Matt decided to rent a boat (thought you needed a license...apparently not in

the North Country hahaha) and go fishing on Lake Champlain.

Of course I brought all my articles to read since I was so overwhelmed with getting it done, but

obviously that didn't happen. Anyways, after about 15 minutes and next to Valcour

.Island, he asked me if I wanted to start fishing and I did, so I asked him to bait my hook.

I HATE touching worms!! 5 seconds later he turned around and was just staring at me

with a weird face. I really had no idea what was going on. I didn't get it for a good

10 seconds, but the ring was on the hook swinging in front of my face!! Good thing he

planned this out and fixed the hook so the ring wouldn't fall off into the water lol.

And on one knee he said, "I've got the best catch, will you marry me?"

I knew the proposal was coming... taking my dad out for lunch??? COME ON NOW,

but he definitely shocked me with when and how it happened.

Matt is such a romantic person, he always puts so much thought into everything he

does for me....even his cards are lengthy and beautiful lol. I can't even express

how grateful I am, especially having a significant other who drove up to Plattsburgh

almost every weekend to see me (sometimes arriving on a Saturday night, only

to leave Sunday morning…crazy right????). He made the 6 hour drive in snow, rain,

hail, you name it. Both of us said we would never be in a long distance relationship,

but not even 2 months before I left to start my masters program, we decided to

give it a try.

Well, we made it through the 2 years I was upstate and I can honestly

say that's the reason we're so close. Our Skpye dates, talking on the phone from the time

we woke up, throughout the day, and then until one of us fell asleep on the phone at

night was how we had to get to know one another. I'm very happy I came back home

for my internship though and Matt is too (for driving reasons of course haha). It was

tough at times having a significant other so far away, but the saying "what doesn't kill you,

only makes you stronger" is definitely true for us :)

I never knew a love like this could exist. The list of qualities that I HAD to have

in someone seemed downright ridiculous and thought it was never going to happen.

I was actually OK with the fact that I would probably be the crazy cat lady. I can't

believe that Matt is everything I've dreamed about having in a person. Not only

is he the most handsome man I've ever met, he's sweet, loving, and kind to everyone

around him. He works hard to be successful and always strives for more. Matt

motives me and supports everything I do, always cheering me on to the fullest. He's my

best friend in whole world and I really can't remember what

life was like before I met him."

***

***STAY TUNED FOR PART TWO!!***

Freemer Wedding | Wedding Photographer Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-08-13T11:49:00.000-04:00

I met Kate & Terry through a college friend who I am photographing her wedding next year. I was not Kate & Terry's first choice for their wedding. They had already put a deposit down and had their engagement portraits taken with Richard Soukup. Richard experienced a heart attack and passed away in January. (As time went by, his wife also passed away in June of this year.) I heard their story from Leslie and could not imagine trying to find a photographer only 4 months before the wedding! After doing some digging, I was also shocked to learn Richard is the same age as my father. I feel like my father is too young to be a candidate for heart attacks. =/

I spoke with a very frantic and frazzled Kate on the phone Super Bowl Sunday. After taking ten minutes or so of calming her down, we set up a date to meet and go over her wishes and what I offer. Long story short, they fell in love and I had them on my schedule. She was one of my most EXCITED brides and so ready to just DO this! =]

Kate & Terry got married at Saint Tobias Catholic Church Brockway with the reception immediately following at the Brockwayville Depot in Brockway.

Terry and his parents sharing a moment outside the church

I love a roudy bunch of groomsmen! I only caught the tail end of the story

and I know I wouldn't do it justice. Let's just say they had been tail

gating since they got to the church!

Beautiful Mommy, with her beautiful daughter, Kelsey, peaking at me.

Kate's mom was a champ and got the groomsmen squared away with

the boutineers. Here she is working on her husband's flower.

"Love comforteth like sunshine after rain." - William Shakespeare

Stealing a moment during the ceremony

Such a cute family!

This just cracks me up!

I believe it was Lady GaGa that got him dancing!

Lots of cute kids here!

Yes ladies, he put the garter on her leg with his TEETH!

Don't worry, they are dating =]

The groomsman's face in the back is hilarious!!

Mr. & Mr. Freemer

Beautiful Bride

Thank you Kate & Terry for letting me swoop in and save the day!

God timed the rain perfect: it started pouring right at ceremony start

and thundered through out. It was bright and sunny when their

ceremony was over. =]

Leather Wedding Sneak Peak | Wedding Photographer Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-08-05T21:58:00.000-04:00

It's not the pale moon that excites me
That thrills and delights me, oh no
It's just the nearness of you

It isn't your sweet conversation
That brings this sensation, oh no
It's just the nearness of you

When you're in my arms and I feel you so close to me
All my wildest dreams come true

I need no soft lights to enchant me
If you'll only grant me the right
To hold you ever so tight
And to feel in the night the nearness of you

Engagement Story Contest! | Engagement Photography Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-07-31T21:32:00.005-04:00

I find myself more and more fascinated with people's stories. Their stories of love, their family traditions and the journeys their lives take with each passing day.

Behind each couple is a story.

The beginning.

The place where their love started...

...and bloomed, then flourished.

I want to hear your engagement story! Whether you got engaged yesterday or 60 years ago, I want to know how your love asked the big question. And how or when you knew this other person was going to be your forever beloved. Your story can be extremely joyful or painted with sadness. It can be very creative or disasterous. It can be over the top extravagant or simply sweet. Or maybe you were blessed with a very romantic sweetie. =]

The Engagement story contest will be accepting submissions between Aug. 1 and Aug. 31, 2011. In 1000 words or less I want you to share how your love asked to walk the aisle with you and share a life full of love and laughter. This contest is open to newly engaged couples, and married couples, whether you just got married yesterday or have been married for 60+ years! Please submit your story and a photo to: monroefilesphotography@gmail.com by August 31, 2011.

The five categories are:

Most Romantic

Most Creative

Most Extravagant

Most Simplistic

Most Disastrous

One entry from each category will be chosen and shared with readers on Monroe Files Photography's website and www.facebook.com/monroefilesphotography page. Readers will then get to vote who they think should win!

Grand Prize:

Full Portrait session with a complimentary 16x20 canvas wrap, ready to hang on your wall!

2nd runner up:

Mini session with complimentary accordian mini album that fits in your purse (think brag book, but cooler!)

3rd runner up:

$75.00 gift certificate to Monroe Files Photography

I can't wait to hear all your love stories! =] =] =]

But first I will share mine with you.

It was August 17, 2007 and Scott and I had been dating for almost 4 years. He went home the prevous day for a funeral and when he came home he found me working at my lap top. He pulled me on to the bed and said, "I have something I need to tell you." I didn't move, not knowing what was coming next. "I know I told you that we'd get engaged between April and August...with me not working my senior year of college I just don't have the money. I am so sorry. But I just can't swing it." After letting it sink in, I preceeded to razz him. "But you said between April and August...and August is almost over!" "You LIED to me!!" "What a bunch of crap!" I ratted on him ALL. DAY. about it.

After the bed scene, I hopped in the shower to get ready for the day. I emerged from the bathroom to find all the bedroom window curtains wide open. I hollered up the stairs, "Thank YOU for opening all the blinds! Like you didn't know I was getting a shower." Hurried up and closed them shaking my head.

We both go to work that night and I end up getting off work first. I head home to change and wind down waiting for Scott to close the kitchen. I get the call, pick him up, we change and head to Champ's for some late night grub while hanging out with friends.

We end up closing the bar. Which is typical for the Roadie bunch. Scott had a few too many and it never hits him until we end up at home. He hops in the shower and maybe 5 minutes later he's standing in the bathroom door way, dripping from head to toe, staring at me. I look up from my lap top, sigh and say "Yes...?"

"Would you like to shower with me?"

"Do YOU want me to shower with you?"

"Yes."

I barely get two feet in the shower and he's out the bathroom door like a shot. I wipe the water out of my eyes and realize he's gone. That's when I peaked my head out of the curtain to find him bent over at the waist, dripping AGAIN, bare butt sticking out of the closet. For a split second I thought to myself, 'I hope he isn't puking in the closet.' Which quickly turned into, 'HE is cleaning it up.'

I am letting the warm water run over my achy body after being on my feet for 6+ hours and I about jump out of my skin when Scott rips the shower curtain open. Water is running every where. I'm looking at him, not quite sure WHAT he is up to. Then he starts talking...

"I know, you wanted it to be all romantic and everything...and I REALLY couldn't think of anything..." He manages to get down on one knee (remember, he is drunk so this is truly an accomplishment!) and says, "Will you marry me??" *Insert super huge drunk grin*

I say, "Yes." (Probably to my better judgement, KIDDING!!) We sealed it with a kiss and then the whole story comes out...

The little stinker went home and bought the ring at Zalno's in Clearfield since he "just happened to pass it" on his way home to Rockton. He then set the scene by throwing me off with the "I'm so sorry I'm completely broke and can't afford a ring." While I was in the shower that morning, he opened all the blinds to see the ring sparkling in the sunlight and then hid the ring in his work boots. He said he was a nervous wreck while I got dressed, TWICE, thinking I'd see it. I was non the wiser!

If anyone knows us, they know we are TER-AH-BOWL with surprises. We can't keep a surprise from each other to save our lives. (Fast forward 3 months after the engagement and I told Scott what his Christmas present was because I was soooo. stickin'. EXCITED. about it! I just had to tell him!) Scott couldn't stand the anticipation of holding on to the ring and waiting for the perfect moment to pop the question that he just did it after I hopped in the shower.

Needless to say, there were only 4 other people that knew our engagement story. Even our parents didn't know until our wedding reception. It certainly isn't the most romantic, but it's "us". And that is what makes it special.

Circa Nov. 2007, Spring Creek Park, State College, PA.

Taken by Maggie Herrick.

Ward Wedding Sneak Peak | Wedding Photography Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-07-30T22:20:00.000-04:00

I was blindfolded

But now I'm seeing

My mind was closing

Now I'm believing

I finally know just what it means to let someone in

To see the side of me that no one does or ever will

So if your ever lost and find yourself all alone

I'd search forever just to bring you home

Here and now, this I vow

By now you know that,

I'd come for you,

No one but you,

Yes I'd come for you,

But only if you told me to,

And I'd fight for you,

I'd lie its true,

Give my life for you,

You know I'd always come for you,

You know I'd always come for you

No matter what gets in my way,

As long as there's still life in me,

No matter what remember you know

I'd always come for you.

Happy Birthday Lily! | Birthday Photographer Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-07-19T20:09:00.000-04:00

I can't believe I am posting Lily's one year photos! Where did the time go?? =]

Lily is a Kermit fanatic!

I'm one!

Lily at 8 days, 6 months and 1 year!

Mommy's giggly girl

Rub-a-dub-dub...

...Miss Lily's in the tub!

Cake smashie!

Hmmm...squishy.

Oooooo!

Pffft. =]

Ryleigh's One! | Birthday Photographer Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-07-13T21:53:00.000-04:00

If you are thinking this family looks very fromiliar...it's because they should! I met Megan and Doug at a mutal friend's wedding while we were both pregnant and quickly learned we were about 10 days apart according to our due dates. We became fast friends as we talked about our pregnancies, then births and now we constantly swap stories about our favorite little girls.

Doug and Megan let me share in their second most special day on August 14, 2010. This was the day they said, "I do." and little Miss Ryleigh was baptised during the wedding ceremony!

Love this!!

If you give a mouse a cookie...he's going to want a glass of milk...

But a love squeeze is just as good!

Ryleigh's ONE!

Daddy will be keeping the windows and doors locked, she's going to be trouble! =]

Hehehe Mom's idea and I was in LOVE the whole time!

Yes, those are the CUTEST wings, in zebra print to boot!

Ry decided to taste the sand...

And what first birthday wouldn't be complete with out a CAKE SMASHIE?!

Ok, so Miss Ryleigh didn't really smash the cake, she was actually quite dainty about the whole situation.

She went with the pointer finger method.

Mom didn't think twice about cake flavor. It was lemon and every once in a while Ry would get a

very tart bite and would do a "lemon face". Lol!

Pure Perfection.

Happy first birthday Miss Ryleigh!! I still can't believe you and Lily are no longer babies and creeping into the toddler stage more and more every day. Your mothers will shed many tears over this, haha =]

Ashley CAHS '11 | Senior Photography Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-07-13T21:32:00.000-04:00

Ashley's Mom called me in a panic, "I can't believe it, but she's graduating in like 3 weeks (!) and we never got her senior portraits besides the one for the year book done!" I can totally relate because Lily's milestone pictures came second to client sessions and editing. So there were times where I was scrambling to get them in before time swept us away.

Ashley spent the summer prior to her senior year out traveling and when she finally arrived back in Clearfield she was swamped with band. If anyone has been in band or is friends with someone in band or colorguard, you know their schedule is CRAZY! Especially in the late summer and fall. I don't know a lot of seniors that enjoy or want images in the snow, then you wait until the weather breaks. In Pennsylvania that weather may not break until May !!

I fixed Ashley up with her images and had time to spare (I'm just that awesome, what can I say??) =]

Bet you can't guess where we were!

This one is one of my favorites!

Love this dress! Pockets + dress = genius!

Couldn't resist getting a little dirty =]

Ashley, congratulations on graduating from Clearfield Area High School! May your future endeavors at Penn State find you well and be full of learning, self growth and most of all...fun!

Dinner | Food Photography Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-07-08T23:07:00.000-04:00

Mommy's favorite. As an adult and child (somethings never change!)

Lily? Not so much. This girl didn't even get the macaroni and cheese in her mouth.

She felt that smashing it was sufficient enough!

Lily 9 months | Watch me grow baby photographer Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-07-08T23:05:00.000-04:00

My sweet little girl, just love her so much. This was her first experience with grass. I will tell you that she was NOT a fan! But she humored me and still enjoyed herself. Just don't make her put her hands on the ground!

Pouting.

She's probably trying to figure out why Momma is laying on the ground in the damp grass.

"Eeeeeew...what IS this green stuff?? And why am I sitting in it?"

Lily can sniff out kids from like a mile away. She spotted the neighbor boys across the street...

...and clearly they are HILARIOUS! =]

Don't be fooled! This lasted for all of 5 seconds!

Still laughing at the boys...

Just love this!!

Love you sweetie pea =]

Ridgway Chainsaw Rendezvous | Event Photography Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-07-03T16:15:00.001-04:00

I finally made it to the Ridgway Chainsaw Carver's Rendezvous held every February. It's the largest non-competition chainsaw carving event on the east coast. The 'Vous goes on all week and commences with an auction where all proceeds are put back into the organization for the following year. Carvers come from around the world and really enjoy their time here meeting new friends, learning new techniques and teaching others their craft.

This piece is full size and breath taking. Images don't do it justice!

I think this guy left Jurassic Park to pay Ridgway a visit!

If I had enough muscle (and some where to put these) I would have came home with them both!! I LOOOVE Demdaco figurines and have quite a few around the house.

Love it!!

Even Troy Polamalu came to check it out!

"It's-a me, Mario!"

This guy is braver than me! Smoking a cigarette around saw dust, yea I was a little nervous!

=] Perfect!

8th Grade Snowball Formal | Event Photography Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-07-03T16:00:00.001-04:00

I can hardly believe that my baby sister is going to the High School this fall! It feels like yesterday I was missing kickball on the 5th grade play ground at Oklahoma Elementary because my new sister made her arrival!

And in big sister fashion, I wouldn't have missed her first formal for nothing! Although when *I* was in 8th grade, I had begged and begged to go to the 8th grade Snowball with my girl friends and I was told no. End of story. Needless to say, I haven't let my mother live that down! Funny how things change 12 years later =]

Such pretty dresses! Every time I see ball gowns, I want to go back to prom. *sigh* I am sure Lily will be going to her first prom before I know it! (Yikes!)

Quick Wedding Sneak Peak | Wedding Photography Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-06-30T21:34:00.000-04:00

At last, my love has come along.

My lonely days are over.

And life is like a song....

At last, the skies above are blue.

My heart was wrapped up in clovers.

The night I looked at you...

I found a dream that I could speak to.

A dream that I can call my own.

I found a thrill to press my cheek to.

A thrill that I have never known...

And you smile, you smile.

Oh, and then the spell was cast.

And here we are in Heaven.

For you are mine at last.

XOXO

Silk tie Easter Eggs | Holiday Photographer Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-06-22T21:34:00.002-04:00

If you haven't seen silk tie Easter eggs, you haven't lived a true Easter! They are sooo much more fun than the traditional way of dying eggs. Smells a little better too!

Track Meet | Sports Photographer Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-06-22T21:26:00.003-04:00

Lily's first track meet! Go Aunt Becca, Go!

I like how she just curls herself over the bar !

Lily's impressed! =]

5 Generations | Family Photographer Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-06-22T21:20:00.002-04:00

How fortunate are these sweet littles to have FIVE generations in their family! In honor of Great Grandpa Nelson's 92 (!!) birthday June 23rd, I thought I would share some of his accomplishments =]

Scott, Lily, Grammy, Great Grandma, Great Great Grandpa

Jamie, Hailey, Grammy, Great Grandma, Great Great Grandpa

Jimmer, EJ (the newest edition!), Great Great Grandpa, Big Sister Ava, and Great Grandma

There's something heart warming about wise hands on a new little life.

Great Great Grandpa checking out EJ!

LOVE this photo! These great great grandkids will really appreciate this photo some day!

Everything nice | Child Photographer Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-06-22T21:12:00.002-04:00

Silly little girls =]

Cake | Wedding Photographer Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-06-22T21:11:00.002-04:00

First wedding cake of the season...

And it's going to be a tough one to beat!

Judy Huey, I think you out did your self on this one!!

"Love is patient."

Mommy Market & Health Fair | Event Photographer, Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-06-08T20:33:00.000-04:00

I am super excited to say that I got to participate in the first annual Mommy Market and Health Fair held at DuBois Central Christian School! As you can see from the photos, it was PACKED with goodies to be had! I scored a FAB old wooden highchair and have since given it a face lift. You will see more of the high chair in posts to come =]

For those of you who do not know what a Mommy Market is, it's an indoor yardsale with all items available for purchase geared towards small children. This is a great place to score highchairs, car seats, clothes, walkers, swings and anything else your new little bundle is in need of!

This was just the first half hour of the sale. It went from 9am-2pm. There were 50-50 drawings and many free items given away by the area businesses that participated. You could even grab lunch in between shopping!

A couple of cuties with the DCC Cardinal. Some kids loved Cardinal, some did not. Others were ok from a distance and enjoyed waving, but Mommy PLEASE don't make me walk past him!

My booth!

More of my booth =]

About noon and still hardcore shoppers out sniffing out bargains!

One of MANY businesses that were set up. It was so packed with adults, kids and strollers I couldn't get everyone's photo. Total success and I can't wait for next year!

Cooking with The Courier | Event Photographer Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-06-08T20:23:00.000-04:00

This year's Cooking with the Courier Show was entitled, "Sweet Treats". And sweet they were!

Charlie Gudeman (WPSU) and Joseph Patz of DuBois Regional Medical Center (DRMC) whipping up some delectable mini lemon curds.

Charlie with the true test! THUMBS UP!

Charlie and Cathy Schultz of Treasure Lake Ski Lodge adding MORE chocolate to her Snicker Squares, or in her favorite words...chocolate, chocolate and more chocolate dessert!

Lemon Curd close ups!

One more close up, can you taste it?? =]

Carol Jones selling Miche Bags at the Retail Fair.

Premier Designs Jewelry.

Pampered Chef.

Every year Shop 'n Save hands out slices of cake!

Thirty-one Gifts.

Pennsylvania in February | Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-06-08T20:11:00.000-04:00

Can be pretty... =]

Hynds Belly | Maternity Photographer Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-06-01T21:04:00.002-04:00

Carrie's wonderful big sister, Sheila, purchased a belly session as a Christmas gift.

What an awaesome gift! I would have been estatic if someone gifted me a portrait session.

It's the gift that keeps on giving, for generations to enjoy!

I know a lot of pregnant women do not see a benefit to having maternity portraits taken. Why should I?

I'm only feeling HUGE, my face is broken out thanks to these crazy crazy hormones and trying to find something to wear that fits well and isn't too small my belly is hanging out or so big I look a circus tent...is a total chore! So standing in front of a camera is about the last thing I want to do!

Really. You reallllly want to know why you should get belly pictures? Because you are only pregnant with that baby once. Because at this moment, here and now, you truly can not grasp just how beautiful, glowing and in shape you really are. Because only a handful of years from now you will wish you had more images to show your child of them growing in your belly. Because having a blurry cell phone image just does not cut it.

I knew going into the growing a baby thing, that I wanted images of my bump. Not just ones taken in a mirror or with my camera held at arms length (you don't realize how SHORT your arms are until you have a big bump!) I did the leg work of getting it set up and I had three bags of clothes, jewelry and shoes to choose from. And you know what? I had myself so stressed out about it that by the time the session got here I was exhausted! And my husband did not want any part of being in front of the camera. (His attitude towards picture taking is the bane of my existance, still working on him!)

But I did it. I am SO glad I did. I love those images. I can look at them and it takes me back to the excitement, the anticipation, and of course, the aches and pains! =] (Oooo, and the heart burn, ick!)

The best part is being able to show the photographs to my baby and say, "Look at Mommy's big belly. That's YOU growing inside there!" and seeing the look of pure awe at something so hard for them to grasp.

And you know after they finally wrap their little heads around a baby growing in Mom's belly,

they will follow it up with some super cute giggles!!

Striegel Engagement | Engagement Photographer, Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-05-30T21:33:00.001-04:00

Still playing catch up...I'm trying to get all my blog posts up as June is going to be RIDICULOUSLY busy!! Three weddings, a 3 day yard sale, a certain little girl's FIRST birthday...and tons tons more!

So if I disappear, don't say you weren't warned!

Can I just say that I LOVE my repeat clients! I love that I get to share in the joy of each milestone in

their life. What other job gives you such an awesome privilege??

I met Alanna two years ago (yikes! It has REALLY been two years?!) asking about building her portfolio.

Fast forward a year later and Alanna is making her journey through her senior year.

Guess what? This amazing young woman is getting ready to walk the aisle!

May I just say that Cody is SUCH a gentleman and Alanna is one very lucky lady!!

I always say it takes a very special person to love someone in the military.

Did I mention it was extremely cold?? (AGAIN!)

One of the perks of retail trying to get the most money out of Holidays...

Christmas was barely over and I already found heart shaped candies!

*Insert heart melt here*

I love everything about this. The lights just make it feel magical!

Alanna, I am so honored to share in so many special moments in your life!

I can't wait for August to get here so I can see you two off!

So excited!

Hetrick Engagement | Engagement Photography, Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-05-30T21:11:00.002-04:00

Ok, I am SERIOUSLY in disbelief that Jessie and Cory are tying the knot in what...3 WEEKS?!

Where has the time gone!?! I feel like it was only a handful of days ago that we were out FREEZING

our tookuses off (!!) doing their engagement session. In fact, it was so cold the first time

that we went out for a second!

How pretty are their eyes? Oh the cute babies they will have!

(Some day!!)

RAWRRR!!! LOVE IT! Cold? Nah...it's HOT in here!

We were REALLY hoping it would be snowing for us. That it was not.

But, we got a huge gust of wind and it was knocking the snow off the trees!

This was a spur of the moment as the lighting was just right and then the wind blew

I said, "Hurry up! RUN!!"

And it was totally worth it =]

Love me some natural framing! And how short Jessie is !

Congratulations to you both! I am ready for your big day! I can't believe

it's coming so soon! Hopefully it is not snowing =]

Abigail Newborn Portraits | Newborn Photographer Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-05-30T20:59:00.000-04:00

Yet, ANOTHER post for this sweet sweet girl who stole my heart =]

If you'd like to read about Abigail's birth story, please click HERE

Who doesn't love Ho Ho's??

Look how content she is in the flower pot!

I made the flower headband, not just a photographer...I'm crafty too!

All babies are angels sent from above, precious!

Shh...she's a tired girl (and growing too!)

And my obsession with baby feet continues... =]

Lily pot 6 months | Watch me grow! Monroe Files Photography DuBois,PA

2011-05-30T20:50:00.000-04:00

My sweet sweet girl...almost 6 months ago.

Only 6 months old and just barely learning to sit up on her own!

Look at her baby chub chin!

Such a drool monster...she still is too!

Welcoming Session for Abigail! A Birth Story continues... | Birth Story Photographer Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-05-26T21:52:00.001-04:00

Read the beginning of Abigail's Birth Story HERE

I love this photo because BOTH Dad and Mom are on the horn tooting their good news!!

In my daughter's eyes I can see the future

A reflection of who I am and what will be

(Yes, that's a ton of vernex on her sweet forehead!)

We had to have a few photos with their favorite photographer!

I'm still amazed at how fast she got here!

Daddy taking a good look at his newest girl!

Holding her very proud Auntie's finger

Check out all that HAIR!

Super EXCITED big sister's see Miss Abigail for the first time!

There were many tears and tons of smiles =]

LOVE!

May they all love each other this much as they make

their journey through the teen years!

Ooh sweet sweet baby

She's a perfect turkey baby and I am one lucky lady to have

documented the beginning of her life's story.

You will forever hold a special place in my heart lil Abbie!

A HUGE "Thank you!" to DuBois Regional Medical Center, DRMC and Women's Care of Western Pennsylvania!

Friendship | Baby Photographer Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-05-18T22:23:00.000-04:00

A little mid-week update instead of Sunday-Monday. I was busy visiting a boutique studio on Monday (I was in HEAVEN!!) and I'm finally getting caught up on sleep and the craziness of being out of town.

Snoopy, Snoopy, Lily, Snoopy, Snoopy...nothing like playing a game of "Dog, Dog, BABY!"

To all you Momma's out there... | Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-05-08T20:26:00.000-04:00

Happy Mother's Day!!

Circa 1990

“A mother is the truest friend we have, when trials heavy and sudden, fall upon us; when adversity takes the place of prosperity; when friends who rejoice with us in our sunshine desert us; when trouble thickens around us, still will she cling to us, and endeavor by her kind precepts and counsels to dissipate the clouds of darkness, and cause peace to return to our hearts.” ~ Washington Irving

Circa 2010

There's nothing better than being a mom...until you become a Grammy (so I'm told!) =]

Easter Bunnies | Child Photographer Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-05-01T22:26:00.000-04:00

Anxiously waiting for the Easter bunny to arrive...

Lily Christmas Portraits | Baby Child Photographer Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-04-28T22:16:00.000-04:00

Miss Lily's Christmas photos. Her hair has grown so much since December. Only 5 months ago she was just learning to sit up on her own...now she's taking 2 and 3 steps at a time. Plus the Easter Bunny brought her first tooth! *tear* Where does the time go? In a month and a half my sweet baby girl will cdelebrate her first birthday!

She's such a stinker. She was full of energy and Mom was working with a quarter of a tank thanks to a killer head cold. She was just getting into her very curious stage so she was fingering everything!

Her legs look like a baby dolls legs. She sits goofy even without the help of a chair.

She comes by it honestly, Scott and I ALWAYS sit on our legs or have one

curled up underneath of us.

Merry Christmas Snoopy!

I can't decide if I like this one or the following image more! Her outfit was

hand made by a lovely woman whom I had met at St. Catherine's Craft Bazaar in

October. I could have bought her whole table, her stuff was so cute!

My precious girl, getting so big right before our eyes!

These are the days I wish life had a pause button.

A Promise for Preston | Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-04-19T19:49:00.000-04:00

Today I'm going to leave you with an article from the Jeffersonian Democrat that really touched my heart.

'A Promise for Preston' Wednesday, April 6, 2011

COOLSPRING - Alison Brownlee did not plan on becoming an Ambassador Family for the March for Babies. Nor did she did not plan on losing her first born child but that loss led her to the March for Babies.

"My husband Michael and I care deeply about the mission of improving the health of babies," said the Coolspring resident.

"Michael and I married in 2006 and like all young couples; we looked forward to starting our family and welcoming children into our lives," said the former Alison Hoffman. "During our first pregnancy, I was diagnosed with kidney stones and was admitted to the hospital for pain control, we did not expect this to affect our unborn baby. The doctors ran routine blood work finding that my blood platelets were low, my liver enzymes were high, and my organs were failing. After speaking with my doctors, the conclusion determined was that I was experiencing HELLP Syndrome, a severe, life-threatening form of Pre-Eclampsia. During this time baby Preston was showing no signs of distress, good heartbeat, and great brain activity.

"Preston Michael Brownlee was born April 24, 2007 at 10:10 am. He was two pounds, 11 ounces 15 inches long," said Alison. "That little boy gave us the most beautiful cry, which is embedded in my memory forever.

"Family and friends flooded the maternity ward to see us. Preston did great that day and night," she said. "His condition took a turn for the worst the following morning. His lungs began to bleed and the hospital we were at did not have the specialized machine needed. Preston was to be transported to another hospital but due to weather, they could not land the chopper and it was too late to go by ambulance. Without the machine they told us it was up to him. Our little baby had to fight.

Preston passed away due to respiratory distress syndrome. "He was here, he was real and he lived one magical day," said his mother.

"March for Babies was scheduled the following year on Sunday, April 19th, which is close to Preston's birthday, so we celebrated his life by participating in the walk with family and friends," said Alison. "We continue to celebrate his birthday every year at March for Babies, raising awareness of the mission and raising funds for research."

The Brownlee's second child, daughter Avrey, was born at 39 weeks weighing 6 pounds and 12 ounces. "As you can imagine, we were very worried throughout our pregnancy. The doctors had me take extra folic acid, a baby aspirin daily, and monitored our pregnancy closely," said Alison. "She will soon be celebrating her third birthday."

The couple's third child, son Colin, was born at 39 weeks, weighting 8 pounds and 14 ounces. "Again our pregnancy was carefully monitored and like our other two children, Colin was delivered by c-section. He is a happy healthy baby boy," said Alison. "We are blessed to have two healthy children but we will never fully recover from the loss of our first child.

"We all go into pregnancy expecting a healthy newborn," she said. "But some women face serious illnesses during pregnancy. One out of every eight babies in the nation is born preterm. Three out of every 100 babies born in the nation is born with a birth defect. Not all of these babies survive. Those that do may face developmental delays. Many will catch-up with early intervention and quality pediatric care, but not all are as blessed.

"My family and I thank you for participating in March for Babies. The researches funded by March of Dimes will some day bring new advances that will improve the health of women and their babies here in Clarion and across the nation," she said. "Together, we can fund research that can improve their chances for survival. Thanks for joining us in taking BIG steps for some very tiny feet. "

'Helping to Keep the Promise' Wednesday, April 6, 2011

COOLSPRING - Michael, Alison, Avrey and Colin Brownlee have formed a team, "Promise for Preston," for the March for Babies on May 1. "We will be marching to help premature babies and to remember Preston and all the other babies that were taken too soon," said Alison Brownlee.

"We would liek to thank everyone involved with the last years walk. Promise for Preston was the top family team," she said. As the Ambassador Family, the Brownlees will be telling their story.

"This is just another way to celebrate Preston and also educate people about pregnancy complications," said Alison.

"We are looking to help everyone with fundraising this year. Please give us any suggestions you have on fun ways to collect," said Alison. "The March of Dimes is looking for more teams to get involved. If you know of anyone that would like to add a team let us know and we can help get them set up."

To walk with the families please call or visit: www.marchforbabies.org/promiseforpreston

From there click on the link "walk with me" and sign up to participate.

If you are unable to join but would still like to donate follow the same website and then click on "donate now" on the right hand side. Or mail donations to P.O. Box 25 Coolspring, PA 15730. Feel free to call with questions (814) 715-0993.

http://thecourierexpress.com/jdemocratjdemocratlocal/914900-349/a-promise-for-preston.html

Abigail A Birth Story | Birth Story Photographer Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-04-11T20:24:00.004-04:00

I can't thank the V family enough for letting me share in such an amazing event in their lives! The V family graciously let me be a fly on the wall during the birth of their third daughter, Abigail. I was so excited when they accepted my presense in the delivery room that I couldn't sleep for days! ME! In the delivery room! Photographing...documenting...the birth of a precious life with her whole story ahead of them! And they chose me to help write the first chapter!! *insert happy dance!!*

I know that 99% of the population of women say, "Ew. Why would I want images of myself going through labor? I'm not wearing any make up, I'm sweaty and my hair isn't done!" You know what I say to those mom's to be? How could you not? How could you not want those images? You only carry that child once. You can never carry that same life again or give birth that same little human. EVER. AGAIN. You can not get those days back. And no one said you have to share these photographs. Not everyone is as open as I am. You only have to share what you are comfortable with sharing. =]

This type of photography is to be cherished. Just like snow flakes, giving birth is completely different with each pregnancy, even if it's the same woman giving birth a second time. Each time a baby is born, it's an exciting and nerve racking roller coaster that you only get to experience with that child once.

I am a firm believer that birthing is beautiful and it breaks my heart that there are thousands of women who will never know the pains of labor and would give anything to be pregnant. To carry a child. To grow a human life that is equal parts of yourself and your spouse. Every needle prick, every trip to the bathroom to be sick, all the aches and pains a preggo moans and groans about; those who are barren have spent many nights in tears praying to trade places! We are fortunate to be fruitful. What better way to celebrate our fruitfulness than with priceless images?

Miss Abigail was born at 10:04AM, on Thanksgiving morning. Who has a photo of the clock when their child was born? What little girl who grows up and is pregnant and beginning a family of their own would not love to have these photographs to mull over as she counts down the days to when she will finally deliver? What about your daughter in law? I have never seen a photo of my mother in law pregnant. Not once! I know when I finally find an image of her pregnant with my husband, it will make my heart swell!!

Every photographer has that one image that is THE image from the past year. This is that photograph. How fresh is this baby?? Take a second peak. You will find she is still attached to Mom via the ambilical cord and dripping with amniotic fluid...and I LOVE THIS PHOTO!! Nevermind the fact that Dr. Ott is not hard on the eyes, I am looking at that sweet little squish! As she cries, she's announcing to the world, "I'm here! I made it! Now where is my mother? And who are all these people? I want my Momma!" This is her first photograph. And certainly not the last!

Let me just say, that I am so extremely proud of this Momma! After having contractions for what seemed like 2 months or more, she progressed so fast she could not get an epidural. When I first arrived, she was cool as a cucumber announcing this not so fortunate set back and admitted she bawled. A lot. To which I said, I completely understand (!) and I would have cried too!

Every proud Daddy's big moment!

Well deserved too. This Daddy-o spent the night FREEZING waiting for their unborn child to get here. I was in a turtle neck and was quite chilly. The nurses had the air on as cool as they could get it. Just one of those crazy pregnant side affects and you do exactly as Mom wishes =)

I was in complete awe of this little girl. After hours of contractions (or months! according to Mom!) she came SO FAST! The wonderful nurse who gets Mom through the trenches of labor left for a second to get Dr. Ott. Next thing we know, Daddy says, "I can see her PUSH!" and there was not one nurse or Dr. Ott with a glove on and they all run to bed, "NO!! Stop pushing! Wait!" Dr. Ott caught Abigail a split second after getting his gown tied on!

I loooove squishes!! Abbie looks like she's getting strangled, but she's just getting her long sleeves on. She was covered in a ton of vernix because she came through the birth canal so fast! I'm telling you, Mom had one heck of a contraction and she was here like NOW! I'm still amazed. I knew we were close but I don't think any of there was aware just how close to having this baby she was!

=] So precious! Daddy getting his first good look at his new baby girl. There is nothing sweeter than a very proud new Dad. They are just beaming! I have never seen my husband so proud as when he first got to hold Lily and even more so when he gets to show her off. It puts a smile on my face every time!

I just love her curled big toe. They have such cute monkey feet when they are first born! Notice she is already wearing all of her tags. Did you know that the big security tag that makes an alarm go off if they get within so many feet of the exit doorway in maternity is only used once? After that baby's security bracelet is removed it is thrown away and never used again. I bet that gets pretty pricey!

One more of Abbie's cute little tootsies! This is just a small handful of the photos I took. This is the first installment. Stay tuned for the second half when we get into color photos and you can see just how cute this girlie is!

To be continued...

Lily 6 months old | Baby Photographer Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-04-08T20:47:00.000-04:00

Come and see me at the Mommy Market and Children's Health Fair on Saturday, April 9th from 9:00AM - 1:00PM! There are over 50 vendors set up selling their used children's items and a dozen or so businesses giving out information. Should be fun! (And a little bit crazy!)

I will be there getting photos of the kids with the DCC Cardinal.

Stop by my booth to sign up for a Gift Portrait Session, you'll be glad you did!!

And because a post wouldn't be exciting without a photo, or two...here's my girl!

Her outfit was hand crocheted and it is STINKING cute!!

I found it at the October Craft fair at St. Joseph's.

Just love her expression, what a perfect doll baby!

Lily 6 months old | Baby Photographer Monroe Files Photography DuBois, PA

2011-04-04T22:44:00.000-04:00

My silly girl. I don't think Lily looks like either of us in this photo.

Chewing her fingers. It's a wonder she has any left!

She has no teeth...still and she's now almost ten months!