Yesterday as I gazed at my verrrry long to-do list, I couldn't bear to think of how long it would take to get through it. I was just about to admit defeat when I saw on iTunes that one of my favorite artists, Patty Griffin, released a new album yesterday.

Patty Griffin music is one of the constants in my life. I've been a fan of her for many years now, so much so that my favorite station on Pandora is Patty Griffin Radio. Something about her music just fits, for me. It's soulful, a little country, a little folk, with lyrics that make you think. She is quite an interesting artist, and if you aren't a fan, I really encourage you to check her out! If you don't know where to start, her most popular songs on iTunes are a great place.

Her new album is called American Kid, and it was the soundtrack that got me through the rest of my to-do list. :)

Emily and Justin were the duo that comprised our very first Illinois wedding! This statement became the grounds for a long running joke between us and Emily and Justin, when we would repeatedly refer to them as 'our favorite Illinois bride and groom ever!"

When we left Texas, the weather here was warm and sunny. Little did we know (or prepare for) that we were headed towards a giant snowstorm! I might have started to panic a little on the morning of their wedding that we were going to end up being 'snowed in' and have to stay in Illinois a few extra days. Luckily - we were so thankful that the snow held off until the day after their wedding. But it didn't stop me from watching the weather afterwards to see that the town was covered in a blanket of snow just 12 hours after Emily and Justin made their honeymoon escape.

Speaking of Emily and Justin, they had a perfect wedding day! We are so honored that these two decided to bring us to Illinois to photograph their wedding!

Do you think these girls like to laugh?

Justin was calm, cool, and collected on his wedding day. We had lots of laughs with this guy, too.

One thing that was clear to us at this wedding is that family is important to these two. Emily and Justin's families flowed seamlessly together. This wedding truly was a perfect example of the joining of two families. Here, Justin's mom excitedly hugs the bride-to-be.

After the wedding, we got to spend some time with these two walking around the reception venue, which was a college campus.

Favorite!

Yes that IS a cow being used as a table number marker! For Emily and Justin, (and their entire bridal party) showing cattle is a big part of their life. What an awesome way to incorporate something personal into their day.

After dinner and special dances, the party got started... and these guys knew how to bust a move!

Emily and Justin (and your families) - thank you so much for having us! We had an incredible day with you all! Can't wait to keep up with your marriage and the exciting things happening in your life!

Friends and family, be sure to check out their entire gallery and sign their virtual guestbook.

We have nothing to do, and all day to do it!

We are right in the middle of our spring break vacation and enjoying a few days away from the office. Fresh fish, a dog friendly town, and getting to hang out with a group of friends we don't get to see often enough have been the highlights so far.

This morning I was on the beach at 6 AM getting ready for a beautiful sunrise. The clouds were a little too heavy to see any sun, but being alone on a deserted beach just listening to the waves was perfect. Nows it back to our little beach house for some maple bacon and planning what we are going to do today.

Enjoy this little jingle from wherever you are! It happens to be our theme song of our trip :