abby coyle photo

I've moved.

2010-05-10T22:19:00.000-07:00

You can find me here : http://abbycoyle.com/blog

See you soon!:)

Blessings,
Abby

HELP US HELP THEM! PLEASE READ!

2010-02-26T07:00:00.000-08:00

Hello all! :)
As most of you know, I am a strong advocate for humanity and animals. Whether it be children in Africa, or praying for a stray dog I see on the side of the road (and most of you know I actually will do this! ha!) I can't help but feel a pull toward raising awareness about these two things.
I recently met with a local animal rescue, Pets & People, to volunteer my photography services for their website and adoption sites. I learned through their site that BISSELL cleaning brand (think the Bissell vacuum commercials) is giving away $10,000 in a pet contest. The contestant who wins will receive free Bissell products and $10,000 to the animal charity of their choosing.
Now, I typically wouldn't jump into a contest like this, but after seeing the conditions at Pets & People I can't help but want to at least give this a try. They are so short-staffed, have hardly any room for all the animals and they are strictly donation-based. There's not enough space for all the animals they take in and they get more each day. Cages are stacked, large dogs are in small cages and the conditions overall are hardly bearable. The one great thing about this place is they have a large dog park they were able to build through private donors. Volunteers are able to come and walk the dogs and play with them in this area.
Now, to the point of this message--
I've entered my beloved Sigmund into the Bissell pet contest in hopes of winning the $10K for Pets & People. I know it's not much money but they would benefit TREMENDOUSLY from this award. I could care less about winning the Bissell prizes (heck, I'd even donate them to Pets & People!)
The contest is judged by the amount of votes per contestant. So far, the top five winners have anywhere from 400-800+ votes. There are specific voting periods. The first voting period that Siggy is in starts February 26th and goes through March 4th. A few more will follow.
I'm simply asking my close family & friends to please vote for Siggy. I know the chances may seem high but like I said, I HAVE to give this a try after seeing the conditions at Pets & People!

Here is his entry link:
http://www.bissell.com/mvp_PetDetail.aspx?id=8590063310

PLEASE VOTE FOR SIGGY STARTING TODAY! Help us win this for Pets & People!

Love,
Abby

PS-Please tell everyone you know to increase our chances! :)

New Year, New Things

2010-01-17T17:29:00.000-08:00

Pardon my absence, I'm in the process of customizing a new website and a new blog! I promise to inform you as soon as these two are launched. I'm crossing my fingers to be completely done with both by my birthday-March 3! I'll see you all soon:)

Blessings,
Abby

post-Christmas

2009-12-30T11:21:00.000-08:00

Am I the only one who feels the emotional "letdown" after Christmas? There's so much build up to the holiday that once it's over, I'm almost in a state of depression. It comes & goes so quickly-even when I start shopping in October! I just can't grasp it like I could growing up. Of course, grown up schedules get in the way, but sometimes I wish I could feel that magical feeling of TRULY enjoying Christmas without stress, worries or not having to be anywhere! Ah...to be a kid again. I especially think the week of Christmas and the week following should be declared national holidays (yes, the entire weeks). It's only right that we take AT LEAST two weeks out of the year and spend it with the ones we love :)

To sum it up, I leave you with photos that describe the "post-Christmas letdown" best. These were taken the morning after Christmas:

He is so rotten. I swear the dog has no idea he's a dog. Gotta love him:)

Blessings,
Abby

The Night Before Christmas

2009-12-25T17:26:00.000-08:00

Empty manger, Perfect stranger
About to be born
Into darkness, sadness, desperate madness, creation so torn
We were so lost on earth, no peace, no worth, no way to escape
In fear, no faith, no hope, no grace & no light
But, that was the night before Christmas.
Warm hay, cold sweat
A mother, not yet, praying Godspeed the dawn
She looks to her man, holding her hand, they wonder how long
And the shepherds, wise men, come to find them and bow to a king
One star above, shining on love
So bright it lit up the night before Christmas.
And the world didn’t know mercy was meek & so mild
And the world didn’t know truth was as pure as a child
The night before Christmas…
The night before Christmas.
And the world didn’t know redemption was sweet and so strong
And the world didn’t know salvation was writing a song
The night before Christmas…
The night before Christmas.
Empty manger,
Perfect stranger
About to be born….
-"The Night Before Christmas" by Brandon Heath

I know I'm a day late in writing this, but I heard this song two days ago and it brought me to tears. Each year when reflecting on the meaning of Christmas I always think of the scene in Bethlehem and the details of that night. The older I get, the more I think of the emotions Mary & Joseph must have had that night. Were they scared? Were they cold? Were they comfortable? What was running through their minds? What did Jesus look like?
I'm not a mother yet but I can only imagine the mix of emotions Mary must have felt-a young girl, historically somewhere between the age of 12 & 15, about to give birth to a baby that would bring salvation to a world that had absolutely no idea. How can one even begin to comprehend such a thing? I think of our world today and wonder what it would be like had Jesus been born during this era. People would not believe it (obviously there were doubters even then). But how humbling it is to think that a pure little baby was born in a lowly place for the purpose of bringing humanity the knowledge of SALVATION and REDEMPTION. Did they fully understand the magnitude of this child's birth? It must've been hard for Mary to know that the child she cared for, nurtured, loved on, played with & disciplined would grow to be hated by so many unbelievers. She was to love this child, watch him grow to be an adult and then witness his sacrifice for all mankind-even the very ones who put him on the cross his final day. She was to give up her son. Her baby. It's a mind-blowing thought when I try to put it in perspective.

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6

Anyway, as I've reflected on the meaning of Christmas, I am full of hope and reminded of the greatness & love of the Lord--to give to us His one & only Son to show this hurting world that there is something beyond our momentary troubles. To bring HOPE and GRACE. To show us the way.

What a beautiful scene it must have been that night in Bethlehem. And the world didn't know...
I wish I could've been there.

I hope you all had a WONDERFUL Christmas! I pray it was blessed and you were reminded of the reason for the season!

Blessings,
Abby

The McCollough's

2009-12-02T17:44:00.000-08:00

I'd driven by this old house on County Line quite a few times since I moved. I always thought it'd be a great location for photos but I was just waiting for the right time to come along to use it. Well, the perfect time came and we used the location one warm night in November to shoot the McCollough's holiday photos! I'm so happy we used this spot when we did...the city tore it down less than a week after the shoot! I hope you all enjoy these as much as I did shooting and editing them. The McCollough's are one gorgeous family. I'm in love with little Nate and I'm pretty sure you will be too after you see these pics. He's just too much! I'm thrilled for baby #2 (little Haleigh) to arrive this month! Congrats Michael & Jessica! Thank you so much for asking me to shoot your photos once again. It was too fun!:)

Sigmund the Great

2009-11-30T21:23:00.001-08:00

There's a reason they're called "man's best friend"...

Siggy brings a lot of happiness to my life. There will never be a greater dog in my eyes. He is the very best.

:)
-Abby

Beckham

2009-11-29T19:12:00.000-08:00

Introducing...baby Beckham!
I adore newborns. This little cutie is just perfect! Although newborn shoots tend to be the longest, I always enjoy the time I get to spend with the parents. Beckham's sweet mom allowed me to use all sorts of furniture in their brightly colored home. There were so many great pieces I wanted to use! Just a note to parents- brightly colored props (ie-furniture, blankets) are great backdrops for newborn sessions since most take place indoors. The colors are a great contrast and add a little "pop" to the photos. Of course, Beckham was the best prop of all;)
Enjoy!

-Abby

I love being an aunt.

2009-11-20T21:00:00.000-08:00

Have I mentioned how crazy I am about my niece and nephew? :) They are the best. I am absolutely, head over heels, in love with these two. They can make anything, any day better. They're so fun, so smart and so adventurous! I love watching them grow but sometimes I wish time would stand still so I could hold onto their huggable little bodies as long as possible! I am so thankful God blessed my family with Ellie & Owen. Life is too sweet when they're around. With the holidays around the corner, I can't help but get excited about all the fun Christmas festivities I will get to experience with them! Nothing beats watching them open gifts from Santa Claus:) Well, except watching their adorable expressions when we put "The Polar Express" in the dvd player! (Owens fave) Anyway, since Thanksgiving is next week I wanted to blog something personal that I am thankful for and naturally these two are at the top of my list. Of course, the rest of my family ain't half bad either!;) Surely, God has been too good to us.

A little fun, fall photoshoot...

My mom made this dress for me when I was little. It's so fall appropriate! Couldn't have picked a better model for it!

Blessings,
-Abby

Scamehorn Family Session

2009-11-19T20:11:00.000-08:00

Feliz was referred to me through my friend Dana whom I shot photos for last year. This shoot was unfortunately put off for a few weeks due to both Feliz's family and myself catching the flu. But lucky for us, we shot this session in the prime of fall. We captured these images in the Myriad Gardens one beautiful day in OKC. The kids were awesome! I've found that if you just let kids be themselves, you tend to get the shots that bring out their little personalities! A big thank you to the Scamehorn's for asking me to take their holiday photos! Your family is beautiful!

Isabella sells jewelry so Feliz asked if I'd add a design to one of her photos. Here it is..."Cross My Heart" jewelry by Isabella!

Happy Holidays!
-Abby

The Ash Family

2009-11-16T09:18:00.001-08:00

The best part about the holiday season in the photography world is returning clients! Heck, it's the best part about any season:) And not to mention, it's quite the honor. I've known the Ash family for some time now. We shot their family photos last year before baby Elliott entered this world. Lindsay is the sister of my friend Hayley, whom I met at OBU, so I've gotten to know her throughout the last 5 years. We shot their family photos at Hafer Park in Edmond when the fall colors were in full bloom. The images speak for themselves! The colors and the Ash family make for a gorgeous session. Ethan and Elliot are two of the cutest kids. Ethan is one week younger than my nephew so it's always fun to see him and listen to all the cute things he has to say. I don't think I'd ever had a shoot where a child told me they'd missed me & loved me until this one! I was floating by the end of it all!

Besides saying "thank you", I'd also like to congratulate Dustin & Lindsay on their job transfer to Delaware! As long as you return next year for family photos, I guess I don't mind the move too much;) Y'all are awesome. Thanks for a great shoot!

-Abby

Clint & Merydith/E-shoot

2009-11-13T09:32:00.000-08:00

I met Merydith & Clint back in high school. Mery and I were in Student Council together and became good friends throughout the years. When I transitioned from OBU to UCO, Merydith contacted me in hunt for a new roomy. It was 4 years ago now that we lived together in a crazy, little apartment in Edmond. It was such a fun and precious time. I dont know what I would've done without Merydith then. She made the transition so much easier. I miss those days!
Merydith & Clint are high school sweethearts. I got the chance to know Clint better when rooming with Mery. If there is one thing I know, it's that these two lovebirds are the best of friends. Which, in my opinion, makes being in love what it is. There's a lyric by Teitur that describes it best:

"So you wanna be my friend, so you wanna be my lover
With you I do confess, I can't be one without the other"

Yep, they got the real deal, folks. Congratulations Merydith and Clint! I'm so happy for you two!

-Abby

Evan & Danae - Engagement Shoot

2009-11-05T16:03:00.000-08:00

I knew who Danae was while attending OBU but didnt' have the chance to get to know her until recently when she asked me to shoot her wedding next summer. Evan and Danae are the kind of couple you know are crazy about each other. They were so naturally in love and great at modeling which made my load 100 times lighter! From Danae's red hair to both of their gorgeous baby blues, the photos had hardly any color correcting. We shot their engagements in the Midtown area of OKC one night when the clouds were rolling in. At one point it sprinkled but we got lucky and the rain stopped long enough for us to get the photos we needed! I had so much fun with this shoot and look forward to their wedding next June. Thank you Danae & Evan for asking me to capture such a sweet time in your lives!

-Abby

Cooper Ketron

2009-11-02T07:19:00.000-08:00

This post will be longer than usual because 1: It's about one of my best friends and 2. It's two shoots in one!
Rhyanne and I met my freshman year at Okla. Baptist University in the WMU dorm. She lived on my hall so I'd see her frequently. One of the first weeks of class a random group of people decided to go thrift store shopping. She was in this group, I was invited, we clicked and 5 years later we are still the best of friends. That's the shortened version anyhow!
Rhyanne and her hubby Chase (who we also met while at OBU) are two of my favorite people. They both have wonderful families, who treat me like their own. They're the kind of couple you know have a solid, loving relationship. We always have so much fun when I visit them in Bentonville, AR!
We shot Rhy's maternities back in August while I was visiting for her baby shower. She was glowing! Cooper was just two months away from gracing us with his sweet presence. Since this is the first of my closest friends to have a baby, I was so more than thrilled to do the photos! We shot some at her house and the rest in the downtown Bentonville area. If you've never been to this side of Arkansas, you are missing out. It's GORGEOUS, especially during the fall. Here are (quite) a few from the shoot:

While visiting in August, Rhy's parents asked if I would surprise her at the hospital and take pics during labor & delivery. Cooper decided he'd take his sweet little time so almost a week after his due date, the doctor went ahead & had Rhyanne come into the hospital for inducing. She was keeping me informed via text and unaware that all the while I was packing my bags for the trek back to Arkansas. The morning of October 18th I arrived at the hospital and surprised her:) She was shocked! It was too much fun! A good 12 hours later, Cooper finally arrived. He is perfect, beautiful and just as sweet as can be! One more reason why photographing babies is my absolute favorite.
Here he is ladies and gentleman...Joseph Cooper Ketron!

Congratulations Rhyanne and Chase! You will be the greatest parents. I love you guys!
-Abby

Happy Fall

2009-10-27T13:19:00.000-07:00

Dear blog readers,
I'm more than a month behind on blogging now and I can't tell you how sorry I am! I moved almost 5 weeks ago now and we have yet to decide on an internet service so I've been without! Let me tell you- you don't realize how much you need internet until you are without for so long! I'm currently using wifi at my boyfriend's house (I have to drive 20 minutes just to use wifi!) It's ridiculous, I know. I am so sorry for the lack of updates. I've got about 5 shoots waiting to be watermarked and blogged and in the midst of life, it just piles up! I will (hopefully) be posting them throughout the rest of this week.

In other news, I survived the swine! I had the flu for a good week and a half and it was nothing short of awful. The cough has unfortunately lingered. (Count your blessings if you haven't gotten sick this fall season!)
Speaking of fall, the colors are in full force here in the Midwest. I was lucky enough to be present for the birth of my best friend/old college roomy's first born. I was in Bentonville, Arkansas all last week seeing baby Cooper. While there, I snapped tons of photos of the scenery. The trees were GORGEOUS! I hope to post a few photos from a cemetary I found while there. It reminded me of Sleepy Hollow. Very spooky yet beautiful. I sat there for a good 30 minutes just soaking in the fall air and the pretty colors. It's amazing how God will speak to you through nature. I couldn't help but feel thankful for the view (yes, even in a cemetary!)

Anyway, that is all for today's update. I leave you with a message from my sweet nephew Owen...

PS--I am currently booking weddings for 2010 so email me if you're interested before the slots fill up! abby@abbycoyle.com.

be well
-Abby

Jennie - Maternity Shoot

2009-09-17T21:08:00.000-07:00

Lucky for me, a recent friend of mine decided to stop pursuing her photography business in order to dedicate more time to her family's new business endeavor. Luckily, she refers all of her clients to me now! Woohoo! Now, don't get me wrong, I'm sad my friend has left the industry but naturally I am ecstatic to meet new people! Jennie, is one of them:) She contacted me about a baby package so not only did we shoot her maternity pics but I'll be at the hospital for the delivery and then shoot the first week photos soon after. Jennie's hospital delivery shoot will be a first for me and I could not be more excited about it! The maternity shoot was fabulous. Jennie & her husband just moved into a new house outside the city so not a lot of furniture was moved in. The lighting was PERFECT. I could not have asked for better! We shot several on the wood floor inside her home that turned out beautifully. I'm not posting them here for privacy reasons but I'm hoping to use a few for clients interested in a maternity session.

Jennie, thank you for the opportunity to capture such a sweet time in your life! Can't wait to meet your little man:)

-Abby

Aly & Nolan (cont'd)

2009-09-17T20:46:00.000-07:00

More from Aly & Nolan's engagement shoot! Best wishes to you guys! Thanks for such a fun shoot:)

NOTE: I'm making changes around here & my site on a daily basis. You can now click on the photos and it will direct to you to my flickr where you can see larger sizes!

Enjoy!

Aly & Nolan's shoot was not only uber fun, but quite interesting as well. While shooting at a location I'd never shot at before, we stumbled upon a woman's purse. Mind you, we are in the middle of a field, away from a few buildings and no traffic whatsoever. Immediately, I start looking around to see if there is more evidence of what seemed to be a crime scene (pretty freaky at first to see all the belongings strewn about!) We started sifting through the items for any identification we could find. In the process I spotted a social security card lying on its back and Aly noticed a driver's license. I couldn't believe the social security card was even there...it'd been raining for the past several days and not to mention the wind in Oklahoma can be rather cruel. To make a long story short, Aly picked up the license, read the name and come to find out, the purse & all of its contents belong to a girl I used to work with at Oak Tree golf course. I was floored! Of ALL places, of ALL people and I JUST SO HAPPEN TO KNOW THE GIRL THE PURSE BELONGED TO?!
I ended up calling the owner of the bag and she couldn't believe we'd found it. Apparently, it'd been stolen 2 weeks before! WOW. Nothing like being in the right place at the right time! I'm just glad she got her Gucci bag back:)
Evidence:

peace,
Abby

Sneak Peek - Aly & Nolan - Engagement Shoot

2009-08-06T10:20:00.000-07:00

San Clemente

2009-07-29T13:16:00.000-07:00

One of the last "hoorah's" we had with Invisible Children was a day at the beach and an overnight camping trip in San Clemente. It was such a fun day and a great way to end the spring term. I can't imagine not having the internship with IC. I feel so lucky to have been chosen to work with such a wonderful group of people! I will cherish those sweet memories, & the time I lived in California, forever. Thank you to all of my amazing IC family for making it so special. Here are some photos from that day. Enjoy!

**Please note: the people in these photos (minus the surfers) were my co-workers and they are incredibly awesome for posing for this shoot! We had a blast with the lifeguard ones!

peace,
Abby

2009-07-24T13:54:00.000-07:00

Inspiration

2009-07-20T14:44:00.000-07:00

"...I think you really should make a radical change in your lifestyle and begin to boldly do things which you may previously never have thought of doing, or been too hesitant to attempt. So many people live within unhappy circumstances and yet will not take the initiative to change their situation because they are conditioned to a life of security, conformity, and conservatism, all of which may appear to give one peace of mind, but in reality nothing is more damaging to the adventurous spirit within a man than a secure future. The very basic core of a man's living spirit is his passion for adventure.

The joy of life comes from our encounters with new experiences, and hence there is no greater joy than to have an endlessly changing horizon, for each day to have a new and different sun...Don't settle down and sit in one place. Move around, be nomadic, make each day a new horizon. You are still going to live a long time...it would be a shame if you did not take the opportunity to revolutionize your life and move into an entirely new realm of experience.

You are wrong if you think joy emanates only or principally from human relationships. God has placed it all around us. It is in everything and anything we might experience. We just have to have the courage to turn against our habitual lifestyle and engage in unconventional living.

My point is that you do not need me or anyone else around to bring this new kind of light in your life. It is simply waiting out there for you to grasp it, and all you have to do is reach for it. The only person you are fighting is yourself and your stubbornness to engage in new circumstances."

-Jon Krakauer (Into the Wild)

The Sanders

2009-07-15T12:06:00.000-07:00

I've now had the opportunity of shooting newborn photos and two family portrait sessions with the Sanders family. I get so excited each time Pascha contacts me for photos. I've said it before and I'll say it again-baby Gabriel is SO stinkin' cute! I can't get enough of him and his sweet smile. It is so neat to watch him grow. He is now a 1-year-old which blows my mind! Seems like yesterday I was snapping the newborn pics of him. I am grateful for clients such as the Sanders family. Not only are they friends of mine, but I am always encouraged when they hire me for another session; it reaffirms me in my photography and tells me I'm doing something right!:) Not to mention, it's not every day you have a client tell you they are praying for you and your endeavors overseas. This family is certainly blessed! Thank you guys for always being so awesome and FUN! I am honored to help capture moments of your sweet family.

enjoy!
-Abby

50 birthdays

2009-07-11T12:18:00.000-07:00

Today is a very special day. Well, every day is special, but this one in particular because my sweet mom is 50 years old! In honor of her, I decided to do a birthday blog!
I usually don't get all sentimental about my family on here, although I'm not really sure why. I'm convinced I've got the best:) "God has surely been good to us," my mother would tell you. I always marvel at the fact that I've got such a great mom. She truly is a best friend. I can tell her anything and know that she will offer the best advice possible, without judging, even when playing devil's advocate (mom's are so good at that). We laugh together, cry together, drink coffee together, reflect on the Lord's goodness in our lives and both get nostalgic during the fall season (our favorite!)

She's servant-hearted, loving and kind. I rarely see her angry and she grants us patience even more than we deserve. She's always taken the time to understand us and listen to our problems. I really can't say enough about my mom and the more I write this blog, the more I realize I should've done this a long time ago! Hands down, she is the best mom & "Mimzy".

Mom-you are the greatest! So loving and compassionate toward anyone and everyone. I've never met a person who didn't like you. In fact, I can't help but want to brag about how many people that have met you & told me just how great you are. You are kind to strangers and you've done a great job at teaching us to put others before ourselves, even though we fail at doing so...sometimes;)

Thank you for always being the biggest fan, greatest support, having an open heart and ear to always listen and lean on. Thank you for your wisdom and humor. I'll always cherish the years you poured your artistic abilities into our birthdays (the cakes were the best!) Oh, and not to mention the Halloweens you've dressed up, the Easter's you spent dressed as a bunny, the Christmas' you went out of your way to keep our belief in Santa going. The holiday traditions, the dress up clothes, waking me up for Sunday school at the age of 5 with your singing "wake up, wake up, you sleepyhead". I can't imagine not having a mom who encouraged us to reach inside our imaginations as much as you have. My whole life you've pushed me to follow my dreams, something I've never once regretted.

Mom, I hope 50 years have left you feeling nothing short of blessed or joyful. Thank you for being such a beautiful person inside and out. You are an inspiration.

To life...and 50 years of it! Happy Birthday!!!

I love you.
-Abby

rainy day in Chiang Mai

2009-07-01T06:10:00.000-07:00

I love rainy days, especially when spent in a sweet coffee shop in Thailand...

Even better, when the sweet coffee shop has the world's best iced mochas...

mmmm...

...and in the midst of good company

"And maybe when a person doesn't buy the lies anymore, when a human stops long enough to realize the stuff people say to get us to part with our money often isn't true, we can finally see the sunrise, smell the wetness in a Gulf breeze, stand in awe at a downpour no less magnificent than a twenty-thousand-foot waterfall, ten square miles wide, wonder at the physics of a duck paddling itself across the surface of a pond, enjoy the reflection of the sun on the face of the moon, and know, This is what I was made to do. This is who I was made to be, that life is being given to me as a gift, that light is a metaphor, and God is doing these things to dazzle us."
-Through Painted Deserts by Donald Miller

I've got a lot of thoughts I've been storing up while on this trip. I've decided to be in the moment for now. Pics to come when I return back to the US.

peace,
Abby

It's official...

2009-06-29T08:44:00.000-07:00

I'm adopting a Burmese baby.

Enjoying Thailand. Longer update tomorrow.

Pray for Burma.

-Abby

Sawadee Kha (hello) from Thailand!

2009-06-23T07:27:00.000-07:00

I'm currently sitting in bed at the cutest little guest house in Chiang Mai, Thailand, where it's raining. The perfect sound and ending to a great day. It hasn't even been 24 hours since I arrived in Thailand and here I am. What a whirlwind, mind-blowing trip it's been. Bryan has reminded me at least 7 times today that it hasn't even been a full day yet. Hello, pinch me, I'm in Thailand. WHAT?! We laughed all throughout the day about how amazing it is that we are here and how this has come to be. Our God is SO big and so loving!

I left OKC at 6:40am on Sunday and arrived in Bangkok at 11:40pm Monday night (or 11:4am OKC time). We are exactly 12 hours ahead of everyone in America which is somewhat fascinating to me. Time change is such an odd thing when you are on the flip side of all that is familiar. The flights were smooth, the people are real friendly and the culture is beautiful. Thailand isn't really what I pictured although I really didn't have any expectations to begin with. Bangkok is a huge city with large buildings and busy highways. The airport there is massive! Bryan and Nikki picked me up and we immediately headed to a guest house. It was so great to see a familiar face upon arrival. This morning we woke and had breakfast at a quaint little restaurant down a small alley. The smell and weather remind me a lot of Sierra Leone...I even had scrambled eggs and pineapple for breakfast which was typical for us in Africa. It's funny to be here and reflect on previous experiences. I've been missing Sierra Leone a lot but I know that God has me here instead and for good reason.

We flew out of Bangkok around 1pm and arrived in Chiang Mai an hour later. Chiang Mai is much smaller and more natural. The grassy mountains remind me of Hawaii. The air is thick but it's tad cooler. The place we are staying at seriously looks and feels as though we are in a giant tree house. (See photos!) After meeting some folks Eleho partners with, we relaxed a bit then headed to the local mall where we ate. I had fro-yo in honor of SoCal. It was tasty:) I'm trying to avoid all spicy foods for at least a little while, considering my stomach has a bad habit of getting ulcers when I'm overseas. We'll see how long I can go without getting sick!

Anyway, it's been an exciting yet exhausting 24 hours. I leave you with my first photos of the trip. We have internet access so I'll keep you all posted as we go along this journey.

first night in Bangkok:

Breakfast in Bangkok:

Welcome to Chiang Mai:

peace,
Abby

the Bean is 1

2009-06-19T11:17:00.000-07:00

NOTE TO READERS: I'm an aunt therefore I reserve all bragging rights on this post;)

It's official...baby Ellie bean is 1 year old! My beautiful, amazing, little angel of a niece is a big girl now!
We celebrated this past weekend, not just one birthday, but TWO! Because not only is Ellie 1, Owen turned 3! THREE! What?! When did these babies get so big?! Since their birthdays are so close (O's is June 16th and June 18th is Ellie's) , my sister had a joint "Pirates & Princesses" party. We had so much fun pigging out on b-day cake & ice cream, hitting the treasure chest pinata & of course, watching the kids open presents. It blows my mind how big they are getting and how fast it's gone by. Whether it's swimming with Owen or cuddling with Ellie, I try and soak in the precious moments as best I can. I know they will grow faster than we'd all really like (cue John Mayer's "Stop This Train"). There's just something about their innocence that makes me want to squeeze them and never let go! They are such sweet reminders of Gods love and blessings poured on our families. Life would not be complete without them.

Yesterday, my sister and I decided to shoot some photos of Ellie in a cute little birthday number. Naturally, I can't help but share these photos with you. I just love her so stinkin' much! I promise to post b-day pics soon!

Here she is ladies & gents...Ellie Cunningham on her 1st birthday!

With a full heart,
Abby

Natasha & Dan/E-shoot

2009-06-17T08:52:00.001-07:00

While at Invisible Children, Inc. I came to know Natasha. She handles the Book Drive so whereas we weren't in the same dept., we often met at the "water cooler". She was sweet enough to let me join her at the Animal Liberation Orchestra show at Belly Up (coolest music venue in San D) one of my first weeks in CA. Anyway, Natasha informed me early on that she was getting married in July and I asked if she needed engagements. We finally got around to it the day before I left California! I was thrilled to shoot these for her and Dan. They are the first couple I've ever photographed at the beach! We drove out to my favorite place: Coronado! If you ever visit San Diego, you MUST go here. It is beyond beautiful, the sand is different than most places in SoCal and it's VERY clean. Not to mention they have Hotel del Coronado (you can see it in the back of some photos). It's gorgeous! These two were incredibly natural in front of the camera...they even danced. LOVE IT. I couldn't pick just a few photos so I decided to post quite a bunch that were personal faves. THANK YOU NATASHA AND DAN! You guys are wonderful. I wish you nothing but the best & a life full of happiness!

Hope you all enjoy.
-Abby

East to West

2009-05-30T09:12:00.000-07:00

After "The Rescue" I was chosen to be the third driver for dropping off east coast "rescue riders". This included me, two of my co-workers/roomies and a 15-passenger van filled with a bunch of crazies who'd managed to find their way to Chicago for the event. (One can only imagine the conversations these people had...interesting, to say the least!)

Luckily, we just had to drop them off in Georgia & South Carolina so a majority of the trip was just Clay, Daniel & myself. We had a blast driving from east coast to west coast. All in all, I traveled through 16 states in 14 days. It's something I will probably never do again but boy was it fun :)

A few pics from our journey coast to coast:

peace,
Abby

Africa to Burma

2009-05-27T12:31:00.000-07:00

My life consists of strange parallels. It's funny to look back at certain events in your life and see how all the dots connect.

I think back a lot to when I was a senior in high school and my social studies teacher showed my class a documentary about Sierra Leone & the conflict diamonds. I remember being shocked, wondering how the heck anything so horrendous could be happening and no one know about it. I also remember telling myself I would never go to Africa because of the dangers there.

Then I look back to OBU and my wonderful friends. Feeling free and dreaming of the west coast. I didn't know why I always wanted to be on the west coast. I just did. I longed for it. Then I think back to one night, shortly after I transferred to UCO, I'd traveled back to Shawnee and watched a documentary called, "Invisible Children: The Rough Cut" with some girlfriends. And how I left feeling like my life had just had a serious wake up call...that I needed to get my priorities straight and start opening my eyes to the world, not just what's in front of me. My heart opened to Africa that night.

Then I think of how two months after seeing the documentary I attended the "Global Night Commute" in OKC, an event put on by IC. Then I reflect on my classes at UCO, how they challenged me to think globally and in turn caused me to become socially aware of everything, even down to the shirt on my back. And how I had zero friends at UCO but eventually made friends with the girl who sat next to me in one of my classes. She always talked about a place called Sierra Leone and how she was traveling there. I remember thinking then "Ha. Weird. I actually know about Sierra Leone because of a documentary I watched in high school." The same girl encouraged me to go to Africa. I told her I'd think about it. She told me to pray about it. So I did and a year later I was with her and 28 others, including a girl named Courtny, in Sierra Leone. I laugh at this because fast forward a year and I'm back in Sierra Leone with Courtny. Two months after the trip, Courtny is in San Diego working for Invisible Children. She encourages me to apply so I do. Four months later, I'm in San Diego working for the very organization that opened my heart to Africa and it just so happens to be on the west coast-the place I dreamed of living for so long.

Now stop and rewind two years, post-Africa for the first time.
I was searching a lot. For answers, opportunities. I remember coming across an article on the BBC about this placed called Myanmar, previously called Burma. I was oddly intrigued and I think back to how, for a period then, I researched protests that were taking place. I read about this woman, Aung San Suu Kyi. I admired her and her bravery. She stood up for democracy and her people. Burma was a scary place. It IS a scary place. I even wrote about it briefly on my xanga in September of 2007. Weird.

Fast forward to post-Africa trip #2. My mind was on India a lot. I was hoping to travel there this summer with the same group I'd gone with to Africa. A guy named Sunny flew over from India and talked to the group about ministries there. He showed us photos and I remember one photo in particular of a beautiful little boy. My eyes welled up at the photo and I told Sunny I had to meet this little boy. He explained to me that the child was Burmese, one of many they work with near the border. My mind immediately went back to the time I'd become intrigued with Burma. I was familiar with it.

Fast forward to February 2009. I'm working for Invisible Children, living on the west coast, praying that God open doors to new friendships and networking. Soon after, I meet Bryan. He was teaching me HTML and we got to talking about our passions. He tells me he and his friends have started an organization called Eleho. They help raise awareness about Myanmar, or Burma. Funny, I thought. I knew of Burma. I tell him about how I'd been intrigued by stories from there a couple of years back. He encourages me to travel with them sometime.

Weeks later, I get a call from Bryan. We'd become good friends at this point. He asks if I want to travel with them to Thailand this summer. We'd fly there and venture over to Burma for media purposes. I couldn't do it because I was scheduled to shoot a wedding during that time frame. He tells me to pray about it so I do.

About two weeks later I get an email. The couple I was shooting the wedding for had made other arrangements. Odd, I thought. The one thing keeping me from Thailand had now freed up. I tell Bryan and he tells me I'm going to Thailand. I tell him the money will have to fall into my lap. He tells me to pray about it. So I do.

One month later, I'm traveling from "The Rescue" event in OKC to the event in Arkansas. I'm driving with my friend Lauren and we are talking about how she's hoping to go to Thailand this summer. (Funny, she'd gone with me to Africa too) All of a sudden I get a text. It's Bryan. He tells me how he was re-considering Burma this year because he didn't want to send out support letters. Well, Eastlake Church, a place I'd visited with him before, hired him for a media project. Basically, he can pay his way...and mine.

And now: I'm going to Thailand and into Burma at the end of June. I'm assisting Bryan with videography and doing photography. WHAT?!

Never tell God you're willing to go wherever He wants you, unless you're ready to accept the challenge. Of course, He was playing it out long before I even recognized it at the time. Funny how He works. I'm anxious to see where this goes...humbled that I was chosen for this trip.

God is real.

Prayers appreciated
-Abby

say hello & wave goodbye

2009-05-12T02:19:00.000-07:00

I can't believe my time in California is coming to an end. Obviously, I've been slacking in the blogging world and much to my dismay. I truly wanted to keep you posted on life but it's been (unfortunately) busier than I ever anticipated. The last three weeks particularly have been overwhelmingly busy and vanished before I even had a moment to stop and grasp exactly what was taking place before my eyes. Invisible Children has rocked my world, turned it upside down and shaken me to a point of disillusion that I can't even begin to describe. I've loved every second of this amazing, love-filled journey out in San Diego. I hope to return the love its given me someday. Hopefully, I won't be away too long. I venture back to OKC on Saturday so I plan on spending every day by the beach, at least as much as possible, and soaking up every last moment with my sweet roomies. I've made some lifelong friendships, no doubt.

Here's to you San D. You've treated me so lovely and warmed my soul these last 5 months. All my love.

Can you tell how happy I am? Life is so good.

PS- I'm going to Thailand in June. Details to come!:)

peace & love,
Abby

WE INVITE YOU!

2009-04-18T18:59:00.001-07:00

Commercial Spot 30sec from Invisible Children Europe on Vimeo.

so this is L.A.

2009-04-01T00:07:00.000-07:00

Took a road trip up Pacific Coast Highway...pics coming soon!

My view from the Santa Monica pier.

peace & love,
Abby

The Rescue of Joseph Kony's Child Soldiers

2009-03-25T09:58:00.000-07:00

So many hours poured into this project...we hope you feel empowered by it. Pass it on to everyone you know or host a house party! Hope to see you ALL at one of the events!

GO HERE FOR DETAILS:
http://www.invisiblechildren.com/marchhouseparty

Lately...

2009-03-23T00:49:00.000-07:00

Dear blogger followers,
My apologies for the lack of blogging these past few weeks. I honestly do not know where the time has gone! Work keeps us all so busy that I hardly have time to check this thing anymore. As of late, I've been traveling as often as I can and enjoying the sunny days as much as possible. Everything has been so wonderful, despite the busyness of it all, and I am learning so much through my internship! I love it! It's challenged and encouraged me so much. I've been learning all sorts of good stuff about videography, photography and a variety of other media related things. I'm still in awe that I am here and I enjoy every moment-stress and all! Because hey, I'm in California!

Highlights from the past weeks: L.A. premiere of our latest documentary which was AWESOME (check it out: therescue.invisiblechildren.com), celebrated my 24th in La Jolla (where I got to see sea lions, eat at Old Towne for dinner and ended the night with a beach bonfire), traveled up Pacific Coast Hwy to the Dan Eldon exhibit in Santa Monica,sight seeing on Hollywood Boulevard, experienced numerous California burritos (yummm), countless sight-seeing road trips around the San Diego area (Point Loma, Ocean Beach, Mission Beach, Pacific Beach), visited Coronado Island, traveled to Malibu with some sweet new friends of Eleho, best guy friend visits from OKC, product shoots for new graphic content, moved our office from OB to downtown SD, video update shoots and traveled to volunteer at an orphanage in Tijuana (first time to Mexico!) where we played with kids all day...just to name a few fun things!

It's been overwhelming. Life is SO good my friends. I pray the same for you.
I can't make any promises but I hope to be better at keeping this updated!

I leave you with some photos from my birthday:

Courtny and me in beautiful La Jolla

Until next time,
Abby

the power of prayer

2009-02-18T10:30:00.000-08:00

I read this message this morning and had to share it with my fellow bloggers. If you know me, you know prayer is quite possibly the largest part of my relationship with the Lord. I pray about it all...past, present, future...family, friends, career...peace for others and relationships. I love prayer and I know the power behind it because of the magnitude it can shake you, others and even a nation. I'm a witness to countless answered prayers not only for myself, but others, and so I stand firmly behind this. It is where God meets us and allows us to ask anything of Him as the Father. Some people say "Well, I just don't think my prayers are good enough or worthy when so much is going on in the world." Well, the truth is, you are here...RIGHT NOW...for a reason. He created you as an individual, as a child of the King, to live at this moment in time. He created your journey and breathed life into you. Why would he NOT want you to ask things of Him? "Seek and ye shall find. Knock and the door will be opened." I'm thinking that verse exists for a reason!:)

Anyway, I was reading this message by Max Lucado and felt very encouraged. I don't know how many of you take the time to pray or just simply give thanks, but I encourage you to do it. God will never disappoint you.

"You thought you got that new job because you deserved a promotion. I’m telling you, you got that new job because God wants you to stay there and pray for those people. You thought you were moved into that neighborhood because it was the best house you could find. I’m telling you that you are an assigned missionary to that neighborhood to pray for those people. You thought you were given that fourth grade class to teach just because the other teacher got sick and you got to be the substitute. Wrong! You were sent to that class because those 26 children need somebody to pray over them. You thought you were given this nation because you just happened to follow a certain lineage of a certain generation. Wrong! God has assigned you and He has assigned me to be prayer warriors for this nation, to intercede." -Max Lucado

Happy Wednesday! (Cali update coming soon!)
-Abby

Hello from Sandy Eggo

2009-02-08T00:44:00.000-08:00

So, I've officially been in San Diego for a week and a half now. Everything has been so intense yet so amazing all at the same time. The people, the weather...everything is AWESOME! I am having and know I will continue to have the time of my life! I haven't taken many photos because of the busy schedule, but I plan on uploading them as they come in. I definitely need to share a photo of my living situation...I share a house with 24 other people, 15 of them being female. Let me spell this out for you...

25 people...in a four bedroom house...2 bathrooms...FIFTEEN GIRLS SHARING ONE BATHROOM.

15 GIRLS...........ONE BATHROOM.

Don't ask me how because I really don't know. I'm amazed by how it all works, really. Luckily, since I work at the art department I have a different schedule than the rest of the crew. This means I get to wake up later but unfortunately this also means I never have that awesome, hot water shower we all look forward to each morning. Boo. But, such is life..and hey, I am living the dream so I really can't complain!

I also must mention that the dept. I work in is located at Ocean Beach, exactly one block from the beach itself. I LOVE IT. I spent most of my lunch breaks this past week laying out at the beach and soaking it all in. The weather was in the 70s up until yesterday. (We have a monsoon right now...I'm assuming Oklahoma stole our weather for a few days. I heard it was 70s today).

Invisible Children kicks off the roadie tour this next Thursday. If any of you want a screening or know of a place that would host one, call us! You will NOT want to miss the media the roadies will be showing. Look forward to an incredible, international IC event that will take place April 25th! You won't want to miss it!!!

Okay, it's late. I just wanted to let you all know that everything is going great. I'll be in touch!
A pic before I go: (palms right outside the neighborhood)

love to all,
Abby

San Diego here I come!

2009-01-24T09:21:00.000-08:00

Well, it's official. Next week I will pack my things and head for the west coast until May. I was accepted for an internship in the art/creative department for the most wonderful organization- Invisible Children!

CAUTION: This gets spiritual. ;)

This has been the longest process for any position that I have ever applied for and also the most moving. I first applied in November, completely last minute, and not thinking much of my decision. I was encouraged by a few people in my life to do so, so the day the applications were due(yea, talk about last minute!), I submitted my information not knowing what lie ahead. See, I'd applied for another internship only to be turned down a month later. I wasn't up for another rejection but I figured, heck...what do I have to lose? Well, the waiting process was quite longer than expected. I was eager and became increasingly impatient after the new year hit and I still had not heard a final word. Needless to say, spiritually I was becoming incredibly frustrated. This was something that I'd prayed about consistently since November...several times I found myself saying "God, where are you?!" But one thing is for sure-God's timing is ALWAYS perfect. I asked God since the beginning to shut the door if this was not His will. Yet the door was never closed. I'd hear one thing one week..then nothing for several weeks. It was as if God kept my hopes just high enough to keep me pushing toward this goal.

About three weeks ago I became incredibly worried. Most of my conversations with the Lord went something like this:
"God...hello? Are you there? Look, I've prayed and prayed and I'm getting nothing down here. I'm mad and impatient now. I asked you to slam that door shut. WHY DO I STILL NOT EVEN HAVE JUST A 'NO'? I NEED AN ANSWER...LIKE TODAY!"
Yeah, I was a big brat. Luckily, God knows I'm human.

Anyway, throughout the following weeks I would receive tidbits of information. Again, just enough to keep my hopes up. Finally the last two weeks God revealed a stirring in me about a particular "situation" taking place in my life-one totally separate from the internship. I even had a voice of affirmation a week ago telling me "Abby, it's time to move on". Brushing it off as best I could (although it pretty much consumed my thoughts) I went about the next week hoping for the IC answer and thinking of nothing else. Finally, this past Monday I reached a breaking point with the internship. During my lunch hour I walked to my car, looked to the sky and said "God, I'M DONE! I'm not holding onto this any longer!!!" (yes, three exclamations are necessary at this point)

5 minutes later I get a call from Invisible Children.

God would do that.

I'd given up and He came rushing in. Always on time. However, even Monday I did not receive the final answer. Well, that particular "situation", ya know the one totally separate from the internship? Well it came to surface that very night, was approached and it ended. The situation was over. Settled. The relationship done. And as much heartache as I felt that night, it dawned on me.

This was why the waiting process with Invisible Children was taking so long. I knew God wanted to strip me of particular relationships to do HIS work. It was no longer about me or Invisible Children's timing. It was solely Gods. And to my amazement, I had the most overwhelming sense of peace. I know this is going to be okay.

and the following day....I was accepted with Invisible Children.

Funny how God works, huh? I give up, I deal with issues in my life, and there He is. Where He was, waiting all along for me to take the burdens from me. I let go and finally let God and He delivered. (You'd think I'd get that this is how it works after years of believing in Jesus)

I tell you this long, drawn out story to give a testimony to fervent prayer and the moving of the Holy Spirit. Ever since high school I've had a pull toward the west coast. I even used to tell people that one day I'd live in California. I just knew.
My junior year of college I was introduced to Invisible Children and their amazing documentary. I had never looked outside America's borders until I saw the video and from them on, I was open to the idea of going overseas. A year later, the opportunity came along for me to go to Africa. And the year after. Now...3 years later, not only am I moving to the west coast, I am working for the very company that opened my heart and eyes to the very place I left my heart in 2007.

I know without a shadow of a doubt, God protected me throughout this waiting process. He wanted a situation to be confronted and he wanted to strip me of every fiber that could possibly hold me back in this upcoming adventure. I am so excited for the opportunities. I know the Holy Spirit is guiding every inch of this process!

My past is a testimony...my present is a testimony...all of Gods perfect timing.

I am so thankful. I've been SO humbled by this process (no more demanding of God!)
So undeserving!

Just wanted to share with any believers out there:)

In other news...I ask you to please say a prayer for my sweet grandma- my "Nanny". Her husband of a year and a half passed away Friday. I won't be able to see her (she lives in Louisiana) since I leave next week. I just ask you pray that God remove her loneliness and heartache.

Nan & me

Thanks for reading! Hope your day is BLESSED!
-Abby

Uncle Abby

2009-01-17T12:28:00.000-08:00

There's something to be said about the amount of joy that enters ones life when babies are brought into the equation. The love is just indescribable. I am seriously obsessed with my beautiful niece and nephew. I thought I couldn't possibly love another baby as much as I love Owen until Ellie came along. Now, I can't imagine life without them...the thought of it just breaks my heart! Hopefully the Lord will take my life long before theirs so I don't have to live with that pain. Anyway, despite the hard work that comes with babies, I really can't wait to have my own. I mean, don't get me wrong...I totally can...but I look forward to the experience one day. LOOOONG down the road! Until then, I will continue to love on my little Oman and Ellie bean:)
Here are two pics of my little pride and joys. This is the first time I used my Christmas gift- Photoshop CS4! Woohoo! Diggin' it!

Owen & his missing tooth...oh the joys of little boys.

Ellie bean...isn't she gorgeous?

Happy Saturday!
-Abby

I carry you in me and in the dust on my feet

2009-01-15T19:29:00.000-08:00

My good friend Jacquelyn and I decided to venture on a random, last-minute road trip to Austin, Texas about two weekends ago. I don't even think I realize how much of a getaway I needed until I was already home. We had SO much fun! Luckily, my awesome cousin Drew allowed us to crash at his place for a few nights. I had never gone to Austin before, and although we didn't get to see a whole lot, we visited the UT campus (don't be fooled, I'm a Sooners fan), walked around campus & the shops along the outside, visited 6th street at night and had fun on 4th street the last night we were there. Drew happened to know all the hotspots for nightlife so that was pretty sweet! We had so much fun. While there I decided to get a little...ahem..tat. I say this so cautiously because sometimes, in the Oklahoma conservative mindsets, it is taboo. Or so it seems. BUT, before you are quick to judge, let me tell you that this was not something I just up & did out of nowhere. I've been thinking about this for a year & a half (I even had advice from my mom to wait a year...which I did!) and the opportunity came so I did it. I just did it! And it hurt like nothing ever before..but I'm glad I did it finally.

After my first trip to Africa in 2007, my friend Hayley introduced me to musician, Brooke Fraser. At that point in my life I was in a very vulnerable state with my relationship with Christ. Now, I am not one to come on here & get all holy on you, but I will tell you that Africa completely changed my life. COMPLETELY. DRAMATICALLY. FOREVER.
On Brooke's cd there is a song titled "Albertine". She wrote the song about a child she grew close with during a mission trip to Rwanda. This song, much like my trip, instantly pierced my heart and I've favored it ever since the day I heard it. It is seriously my life letter to Africa and all that it means to me. I couldn't have written it better. A lyric in the song that has always struck me is "I carry you in me and in the dust on my feet". This line and the song in general has inspired me and touched my life so much that I wanted to remember it forever. I want to remember my experiences in Sierra Leone, I want people to know what it means to me and I want the opportunity to share with others in a unique way.
All this to say...here is my new ink! I edited the photo and mixed in part of the song so you can get an idea as to how it inspired the tat...although it's pretty much a given.

"I carry you in me and in the dust on my feet...
Now that I have seen, I am responsible, faith without deeds is dead. Now that I have held you in my own arms, I cannot let go til you are...I will tell the world, I will tell them where I've been".

Albertine is the first song on my playlist on here so listen to the words, if you will.
Also, check out the music video here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WGx-xU6TnU8

peace,
Abby

Zach, Aubrey & Gage

2008-12-27T11:05:00.000-08:00

I was fortunate enough to be referred to Aubrey through my sweet friend, Celesta (previously shot photos of her with her mom). Aubrey is such a sweet heart and needless to say, the energy between these three pours through the photos! I was friends with Zach in high school but haven't kept in much contact since so I was thrilled to find out I'd be shooting photos of him and his little one, Gage! As you can see, Gage is too cute for words! I had so much fun shooting these photos...thank you Aubrey for the opportunity! Hope you all enjoy!:)

Make a Smilebox slideshow

-Abby
PS- HOPE EVERYONE HAD A WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Cora

2008-12-16T09:09:00.000-08:00

I was asked by my good friend Tmonster (aka Tristan) if I could shoot some photos of his beautiful little niece, Cora, for Christmas gifts. This means that this slideshow must be kept top secret! We don't want the word to get out to Tristan's parents so if you see this and you happen to know them, please keep quiet! :)
Cora is another facebook baby I would stalk, one day hoping someone would let me take her picture. She is absolutely gorgeous! And such a fun little being to be around. T wanted photos downtown so we headed there then to the wonderful Paseo District! I just love that area. Anyway, here she is ladies & gents...the little beauty...Miss Cora Shutt!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

PS-The song on the slideshow is my favorite Christmas song right now...."It Wouldn't Be Christmas" by Jaci Velasquez.
I highly recommend her Christmas album!

Merry Christmas!
Abby

Light A Candle

2008-12-11T20:00:00.000-08:00

Light a candle
for the old man who sits staring
out a frosty windowpane

Light a candle
for the woman who is lonely
and every Christmas is the same

For the children who need
more than presents can bring

Light a candle
light the dark
light the world
light a heart or two
light a candle for me
I'll light a candle for you

Light a candle
for the homeless and the hungry
a little shelter from the cold

Light a candle
for the broken and forgotten
may the season warm their souls

Can we open our hearts
to shine through the dark

Light a candle
light the dark
light the world
light a heart or two
light a candle for me
I'll light a candle for you

And in this special time of year
may peace on earth surround us here
and teach us there's a better way to live
and with every flame that burns
we must somehow learn
that love's the greatest gift
that we could ever give

Light a candle
light the dark
light the world
light a heart or two
light a candle for me
I'll light a candle for you.
-Avalon

I've been listening to this song a lot tonight and couldn't help but post the words. I don't typically write a lot of personal stuff on here, but I really felt like sharing a few words about something I've been feeling this holiday season.

First of all, I've YET to buy Christmas gifts. I've hardly had time in-between holiday shoots and temp work to even think about what to buy everyone. I know I want to buy gifts that will benefit, but I'm coming up blank this year.

After hearing this song tonight I couldn't help but stop and think about the true meaning of this season. I'm part of a "mission group" that meets on Wednesdays. We are currently learning what it means to be a community and how we can live out our lives the way Jesus TRULY wants us to together without selfishly interpreting the bible to fit our needs. Anyway, last nights discussion really got me thinking about what it fully means to "sacrifice" my life for the Lord. I got to thinking about Christmas and all that it means for the world of believers. This season represents the best gift of unselfish love, for a world that is hurting and a people who yearn for truth and meaning. It represents every bit of good that one can offer to humanity and in the most non-material way. So why do I, as a believer, drown in the disappointment (mostly caused by myself) when I have yet to find the best "present" for my friends and family? Why do I struggle so much with the fact that consumer America spends more on Christmas crap than we do on giving things that go much further in humanity? How did we ever get so far into gift giving, rather than the sacrifice of ourselves and physically helping others, and of all times at Christmas?

Don't get me wrong. I'm no grinch...I love giving to my friends and family. I'm just deeply convicted this year about the KIND of gifts I give. I mentioned before that I'd like to give gifts that benefit organizations. My first thought is "what can I get that will benefit and in turn be a physical gift I can hand to my people come Christmas day?" But why does it even have to be that way? Why can't I NATURALLY ask myself "What can I give that will benefit humanity?" and end there. I want to give and I want a physical gift. But is God calling me to sacrifice in the sense that I give every non-material part of me to help people who need it way more than any present ever could? And how does He view the time I spend shopping for material items and the money I spend on them? Could I really be sacrificing myself so much more?

Sometimes I wish we just took the time to light a candle for the world. For the widow, for the poor, for the hurting, for the starving. And I wish that would be satisfying enough.

I encourage everyone to listen to this song and think about how you can help a person in need this holiday! And think outside the box...give things that will help and make a much more lasting impression than anything material ever would.

God Bless! MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!
Love, Abby

Dustin, Lindsay & Ethan Ash

2008-12-10T15:54:00.004-08:00

I had the honor of shooting holiday photos for the amazing Ash family this season! Lindsay Ash is the sister of my best friend, Hayley, so I've known her about 5 years (almost 6...wow, has it really been almost 6 years since I was a freshman in college?!). Hayley and I were roomies at OBU for a semester so I got to know her family pretty well. Aside from the fact that they are like family to me, Ethan, Hayley's nephew, was born just one week after my nephew, Owen. So I feel our blonde haired, handsome, June baby nephews are just one more common link in our wonderful friendship:) Anyway, I must point out that Lindsay's red coat made these photos "pop" and made editing so simple. I couldn't help but feel the holiday warmth with this family. I hope you do too! And I hope you enjoy their holiday slideshow!:)

Make a Smilebox slideshow

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!
-Abby

The McColloughs

2008-12-05T17:03:00.001-08:00

Introducing... the wonderful McCollough family! These people are seriously such a sweet family...and their baby Nate, is A DOLL!
(I know, I constantly rave about the babies but it's so hard not to when they are so dang cute!) I've known Jessica since elementary school and Michael since high school. We go way back!:) I was THRILLED when Jessica emailed me about photos. I'd been admiring Nate for quite some time on facebook and was hoping she might notice my work and ask me to shoot some stuff for them!:) Seriously though! I know that might sound creepy, but Nate is just such a cutie that I couldn't help but want to look at the photos they always post. Just check out the slideshow and you will see for yourself!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Hope you enjoy!
-Abby

TOMS Shoes

2008-12-03T15:53:00.000-08:00

As a result of my travels abroad, I decided each year around Christmas time I would try and buy items for my family & friends that would help benefit a non-profit organization. Last year I bought Red Campaign items, Jedidiah HOPE Collection shirts, Invisible Children bracelets/shirts & cd's of the children singing in Sierra Leone. Best part was, it helped an organization and everyone loved their gifts! Being in such a material deprived place like Africa can really cause you to check yourself, and being the Christian that I am, this unfortunately has become one of my biggest convictions. As Americans we waste so much money on things that do not make a lasting impression- only short term enjoyment. Why not buy gifts that help humanity and better the world? Everyone is already going to spend the money this holiday season...why not just take the time to look into organizations that provide gifts for families or children in need?

I became aware of TOMS through a friend a little over a year ago. I have two pairs (I'm not a "shoe girl" or I'd probably have more) and I can honestly tell you they are my favorite. They are so incredibly easy to wear and so comfortable! Better yet, if you buy a pair, they give a pair to a child in need. TOMS does shoe drops all over the world, even here in America. I encourage everyone to check them out: www.tomsshoes.com

I was recently interviewed by the local news station, OETA, about my TOMS. A girl I went to high school with saw mine on some of my facebook photos and referred me to a local reporter while they discussed shoes one day. It is so random! But, I wanted to share the link! It was fun but I'm happy I had the chance to publicly show my support for the organization. You can see the interview here: http://wms7.streamhoster.com/saxum/Loabi_OETA_Nov%2022_08.wmv

For anyone in the OKC area: you can find TOMS at Loabi in Yukon, Shoe Gypsy & Blue 7. They even have baby TOMS!
Watch this video for more information on how you can help children in need this Christmas:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DqrFG7xrE1I

I encourage everyone to support non-profits that help people! Buy gifts that keep on giving! Help the world in need!:)

Merry shopping!
-Abby

The Forgys

2008-12-02T09:03:00.000-08:00

My beautiful friend Celesta and her mom get holiday photos taken each year and, lucky me, she asked if I would photograph them this year! Woohoo! I went to high school with Celesta but it wasn't until the last few years that we've really gotten to know one another. She is such a kind and happy person to be around...a "contagious" type if you will. I have yet to see Celesta angry! She is always so full of life. If you didn't know better, you might think these two are sisters! Both such lovely ladies! Big thanks to Celesta & her mom, Alesia, for such a fun time!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

-Abby

The Smiths

2008-12-01T12:40:00.000-08:00

I have been so lucky with photography the last few months and the Smiths are just one example of that! Amber contacted me about photos for her family after seeing the toddler photos I did of Londyn a while ago. I was so excited when she asked me to shoot for her family! We did these downtown at the Myriad Gardens while the leaves were in full, fall mode. Her little ones are just precious! Thanks Amber for the opportunity!:)

Make a Smilebox slideshow

-Abby

The Sanders

2008-11-24T16:49:00.001-08:00

Introducing...the Sanders!
I first met Pascha & (knew of) Carter whilst at OBU my first two years of college. Through the brilliance of social networking, I've been able to keep in touch with them. I first shot photos of their baby, Gabriel, when he was just a week old! Fortunately, they liked me well enough to ask for a second photo session of the entire fam!:)
Now, I know I go on & on about all the beautiful families I've had the privilege to shoot and how absolutely adorable their children are, but seriously...Gabriel is SOOOOOOOOO cute! This is one baby I cannot get enough of! I tell Pascha all the time that he is the 3rd most beautiful baby I've ever seen (first & second being my nephew & niece of course!) Maybe I shouldn't say such biased things but in all honesty, you will know what I'm talking about as soon as you watch their slideshow! So here they are ladies & gents...the oh so beautiful, Sanders family!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Thanks for watching!
-Abby

The Pfenningers

2008-11-16T09:57:00.000-08:00

Here is the beautiful Pfenninger family! They are good family friends of mine. Aren't they gorgeous? I've known Kristin for so long, she's basically a 3rd sister to me. Kristin & Brian had Story about 2 years ago. She is the cutest thing! I shot photos of her with my nephew Owen that I will post soon that will make your heart melt. But in the mean time, I hope you guys enjoy their slideshow!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

-Abby

fall is my favorite

2008-11-06T18:33:00.001-08:00

I shot this photo while photographing my lovely friend Miranda. I was so happy the leaves were turning! FINALLY! It seems like fall is taking its own sweet time here in Oklahoma. The seasons have been so weird this year. It's just now hitting the 50's. I absolutely LOVE fall. I get very nostalgic because it reminds me of my freshman year of college which happened to be my favorite year of college. So every time this season hits, I am reminded of how much fun I had at the tender age of 18. If only like were as simple as it was then!

Also, another reason I love this season is because of this:

I LOVE pumpkin spice cappucino! 7-11 has the BEST & they only carry it during the fall months. In fact, my family loves it so much that my mom asked the people at 7-11 what company they buy from. So, instead of having to wait for the fall, we get it all year long from Superior Coffee!Go getcha some. I promise, you will not be disappointed!

Happy fall ya'll :)
-Abby

History in the Making...4.11.08

2008-11-04T09:09:00.000-08:00

Oh, I didn't tell you? This guy has my vote!
(my nephew Owen)

I'm very excited for the election. Now, I'm not a very political person. However, in the past election I voted based off false judgment. This time around, I choose to be educated on issues and fully understand why I will vote for who I choose. Whichever person you think will make the best candidate, I hope that you will at least take the time to read the issues they hope to change. BUT...whatever you do, just VOTE! If there is one thing I gained from going overseas that I could share with everyone today, it would be that voting is a RIGHT and PRIVILEGE that should not be taken for granted. My friends in Africa taught me that I should not take exercising my right for granted because even though it may seem minor in the world, it is something that could easily be taken away. Plus, it's honoring our troops for what they fight for & that is our freedom...and without it, we wouldn't be able to vote:)

SO exercise your right! Get out there and VOTE!!!

God Bless!
-Abby

Our little "Ellie bean"

2008-11-03T12:33:00.000-08:00

Last night I did a shoot for a friend of my sister's. However, my sister ended up bringing my niece & nephew out to the shoot so we could get some photos of my nephew, Owen, and the little girl in the family I took photos for. They were TOO cute! I will post them as soon as I get them edited but I just had to share this photo of my beautiful niece, Ellie. She is now 4 months old! It is crazy how fast the time flies. Seems like yesterday I was in Africa & being told I finally had a niece back in the USA. (Yeah, I totally missed out on the birth...not something I am thrilled to talk about much!)
Anyway, I am absolutely in love with this baby! So here she is ladies & gents...the lovely Ellie Cunningham!

PS-For anyone interested, my sister actually makes the hair bows & the tutu skirts that are in style for little babies. You can email her here for any information: beccaccunningham@yahoo.com.

The Baker Family (extended)

2008-11-01T16:19:00.000-07:00

I had the fabulous privilege of shooting photos for an old high school friend of mine, Kelsi. She wanted pictures with her nieces & nephew so we went out to the Route 66 park and had a great time! I keep telling her that these babies are some of the MOST BEAUTIFUL little children I have EVER seen! Seriously. And their eyes...all of them!...have beautiful crystal blue eyes. Made is super easy for me on the editing side! Anyway, here are the beauties of the Baker family. Enjoy!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

2008-10-31T09:10:00.000-07:00

Carsten

2008-10-27T13:54:00.000-07:00

Here is little Carsten! His beautiful mom, Mandi, asked me to shoot photos for her while visiting OKC from Kansas City. Thanks Mandi for the opportunity! We had a lovely time out at Hafer Park in Edmond.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Emma Grace photoshoot

2008-10-02T11:12:00.000-07:00

Here is the precious Emma Grace. She is so stinking cute! Enjoy:)

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Adventures in OKC

2008-09-25T14:38:00.001-07:00

I spent the afternoon in downtown OKC and landed upon some great, authentic places I'd never seen nor heard of before. I've been complaining about this place needing some originality and BOOM, it's all fallen into my lap within a week's span. It was seriously a crappy afternoon turned into a "breath of fresh air". I often feel as though I'm drowning in a place of no creativity or room to breathe because of all the chain restaurants and typical shopping centers. But alas, OKC has not failed me yet. Here I am to spread the word on my new-found loves...

DNA Art & Apparel: think art in all forms possible, mixed with apparel all by local artists. This place is GREAT and the girl Amanda, whom I met today, is part owner alongside her hubby. All I could say was "this is so cool!" about every little thing imagineable. They have buttons, stickers, canvas art, art on wood pieces, art on skateboards, art on clothing and even feature out of town artists. I would post their site but I looked and couldn't find it. It's located in the Plaza District, which is a whole new experience in itself. Basically, if you want art & you want cool, original and one-of-a-kind clothing, this is your place!

Collected Thread: located beside DNA Art & Apparel, this is a unique little shop filled with ALL handmade items. From purses to scarves, to neck warmers, earrings, necklaces, JOURNALS!, vintage stationary, clothing and small art pieces by locals as well. I fell in love immediately. It is the perfect place to buy gifts. I mean seriously, handmade coin purses, bookshelves, EVERYTHING! It's a sweet little handmade haven. Again, I would list the site but they don't have one...however, they are on myspace!

Coffee Slingers: Apparently this place has been open for 6 months now. How in the world did I, as a coffee connoisseur, not know this place existed until now?! It's located at the corner of 9th & Broadway and sits in the area that is progressing in OKC. It's clean, it's original, it's simple. They sell local artists prints, it's vintage and it's a quiet nook, perfect for a rainy day or a much needed coffee break/relaxing time to read. There aren't too many choices, but that's the point. The service was tremendous and the music in the background was just as great! check em out: www.coffeeslingers.com

Tree & Leaf Clothing: Okay, I have to admit that today was not my first day to stumble upon these awesome guys. In fact, this little store has become quite the hero for my wardrobe life. I'm slightly obsessed with their designs and it's all on American Apparel shirts. I mean, what could be better than a combo of originality + American Apparel? I'm almost certain, that when it comes to clothing, the answer is nothing. Not only do they produce their own screen prints, they sell clothing made by other local artists as well. Yep, it's completely legit. Check em out as well : www.treeandleafclothing.com

Alright folks, that's all I got. Hope you enjoyed this post as much as I enjoyed writing it. Stay tuned and check out these awesome places while you're at it!

Ciao!
-Abby

PS--my new email address is abby@abbycoyle.com

Site Under Construction

2008-09-18T09:03:00.000-07:00

I have a new site being built and I CANNOT wait! Over the last week I've had to sort out several small details on it and let me just tell you, I don't know HOW internet pros do it. To create domains, servers, hosting, etc. It all seems so tedious. I wouldn't even know where to begin! The new site will contain ALL my photography: weddings, bridals, kids, engagements, families, Africa, my family trips, design work and whatever else I have yet to show the world. It'll also have my blog and portfolio information! YAY! I am BEYOND excited and can't wait to launch the full site! I searched for the right website builder for a while and kept doubting my choices until I was introduced to a man through my friend Brent Green (www.brentryangreen.com). I am so glad it will be my own design. BIG thanks to Brent for the referral!

I hope you all with stick with me on the process.I know it seems I've been jumping from one blog to the other lately, but I promise this will be my final destination! So check back frequently to see if it's up. www.abbycoyle.com
It's COMING SOON!

love love love,
Abby

2008-09-10T13:58:00.000-07:00

Londyn

2008-09-06T08:58:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity to shoot photos of one of the cutest little girls you will ever see! Londyn is just two years old and is absolutely precious. Most of the time shooting children is a difficult task because of the attention span (or lack thereof!). Of course you can't ask too much of a 2-year-old who wants to do nothing but play:) Luckily, this shoot was a breeze. Londyn is just too cute for words so these photos turned out great. A big thanks to her beautiful mom, Melissa, for asking me to do these! Here are some photos from the shoot...

new domain!

2008-09-06T08:56:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to let you all know that you can now simply type in www.abbycoyle.com -or- www.abbycoylephotography.com in your URL and it will link you to my site! This is much simpler than typing the whole blogspot mess out. I hope that helps! Thanks guys:)

-Abby

A New Blog! Hip, hip, hooray!

2008-09-02T13:21:00.000-07:00

Well, I finally had the nerve to give up tumblr and my old xanga. New beginnings are always strange at first, but I have a feeling this is the beginning of something GREAT! I was in dire need of a face lift in my blogging world and I feel that I've come to the right place. Not to say I will have this forever, but it's a start.

A majority of what I will blog about will be photography...although I fully intend on speaking from the heart and mind at times. I PROMISE to keep this blog updated (unlike my failed attempt at tumblr). I joined blogspot.com because I was tired of the hassle of switching back and forth between flickr & tumblr. It was so annoying! I just hope I can figure all this web stuff out.

I'm currently working on building a website so when I get that up and running I will let you know! Please check back for updates:)

Love to you all.

-Abby