Crystal the Artist

  Life. Oh, life. Here I sit, once again. My head, A constant monologue of thoughts writing themselves into a beautiful narrative. And yet, When I sit, They insist on playing hide and seek. Like a knowing parent, I sigh, relax and smile. My words are not far. I will not fret. I will rest,  And when they are ready, I know They will return to me.

When I was younger I trained to compete in track and field events. I say that I trained because when it came to my time to run the hurdles I always chickened out. In my head there was a picture playing on repeat. Mid-jump my foot catches on the hurdle and I tumble to the ground unable to finish the race. It is regrettable to say that I never gave myself the chance to realize a different ending. Within the last 12 months I have seen some amazing things happen in my life. My dance with mental health will always ebb and flow, but now I can fully embrace just how strong and capable I truly am. The last year had its challenges standing tall like hurdles set for a race, but this time I firmly planted my feet on the ground ready to run. And I didn't just run. I flew over each marker without misstep. I made it past the finish line unscathed. Here I am in a new season with my mental health, a proud veteran of a war nobody else could feel. The relief and the lightness of release into somethi...

The sweet momentum of love and harmony radiates powerfully through her.    She shines and sparkles in cascading light--fully reflected through the prisms of her beauty.     Her spirit and her body a place of refuge,   for more than one who calls her mom.      Together, they will embrace the future while delightfully dancing to the rhythms of laughter.   It is through a woman that not just a child, but a family, is born. 

Yesterday was for road tripping to Eugene on a last minute call as second shooter for a wedding. While I can't share the images, I do have to say that the drive down to Sweet Cheeks Winery was absolutely stunning. I love rolling hills and mountain views, farmland, and acres of green in luscious Oregon.     The wedding was spectacular and so sweet. There was a first look with private vows between the bride and groom, a food truck, a mariachi band, and a lively bunch of friends and family. The photos are amazing and I wish I could share more.     Here are just a couple because I have to give a nice shout out to Sweet Cheeks Winery . So fun being a guest with a purpose last night!

I cannot express enough the gratitude that I have for this incredible care team. In their own words, " Canyon Medical Center is Portland Oregon's only naturopathic Birth Center & Primary Care Clinic, making our facility one that truly offers complete and convenient care for people and families of all ages."       I wish I had my own babies at this clinic. Look at that fun loving, knowledgeable and sweet birthing team! My family is fortunate enough to call some of these doctors our own. The personal attention that we receive at each office visit goes above and beyond the typical care you might find elsewhere.     My hat is off to the wonderful front office staff and administrative workers! They keep the wheels turning so many families may continue to receive exceptional services at their warm and welcoming medical clinic. For more information about the services they provide, please visit Canyon Medical Center's Website or call them directly at (503) 252-812...

I forgot I was afraid of heights. That isn't in the set of questions when you're offered upgrades to your entrance fee. "Excuse me ma'am, before you pay, I need to ask you... are you afraid of heights?" No. That is not a complimentary interrogation question for tourists. I was asked, however, if I would like a photoshoot on their swing wearing a fancy dress rental with a ridiculously long train for the perfect photo opportunity. Upcharge. Upgrade. Paid service. The front desk attendant motioned to a set of cobblestone steps leading down to the dress shop near the swings. It wasn't until I was making my decent down to the deep ravine made up of scenic rice fields in central Bali that I remembered my fear.  As I approached the dress rental counter I tried my hardest to swallow my fear of heights. I settled on a beautiful, iconic, bold red gown that I wasn't quite sure would fit me, even though I was told, "all dresses are the same." The wait for th...