Leading With Love –

I was inspired by this phrase. I saw someone on an IG post say that they like to live their life by Leading with Love. This thought keeps bouncing around in my mind. I’m so glad it is. In my opinion we are (sadly) living in a world where it feels (to me) like we are being judged on every word, action or opinion we have. It also feels like we are always judged with the filter of “worst case scenario”. In other words the benefit of the doubt is not offered. Suddenly there are new rule books daily and whether you intended to be offensive or not doesn’t matter. You are held responsible for someone else’s interpretation of your thoughts, words, actions and your intentions simply don’t count. It’s exhausting. 

Thankfully, I am mostly surrounded by people who respect each other’s varied points of views and do in fact give you the benefit of the doubt. 

I think the solution could be a simple as “Leading with Love”. Instead of being defensive or critical I am really striving to Lead with Love in each encounter or observation I have each day. 

This week I had the opportunity to have a lunch date with two friends. One I’ve had for a very long time and one who began as a student. I am so thankful for the many friendships I have in my life. Sadly, I hadn’t seen one of these friends in YEARS!! I need to do better about reaching out to friends. How about you? Are there people you miss in your life that you could reach out to?

A visit from the married couple

Our oldest son Joshua and his amazing wife Jocelyn as well as their pup Scout were in town this past weekend. We were a pit stop so they could celebrate a friends wedding. While wedding festivities kept Jocelyn busy most of the time we did get to see Joshua a bit. They are still on their road trip. They have been traveling since we last saw them in Boise on May 28th! With their roof top tent (and friends and family along the way) they like to brag about how little they have spent on lodging (it’s impressive!). I love that they are taking the time for this trip!  Very soon this adventure ends and they start their new adventure in Sothern California which involves medical school for Jocelyn and a new job for Josh.

Josh and I were able to do some climbing, have a lunch date and just hand out. It was really nice to spend some time with him! We also had a blast celebrating with our friends at the wedding this weekend. So much love to be thankful for!

James Family Session – When I think of Leading with Love this family is a great example! 

A few years ago this sweet family moved into our community and we have enjoyed them so much! They have blessed us with their service and genuine hearts. Sadly, the James Family are leaving us at the end of the Summer to head to the South.  We will really miss them! We had a lot of fun at WSU for this family session which included Grandma and Grandpa who were visiting from Alabama! With two toddlers with tons of energy it was a great location to just let them run around and be kids! Earlier that day I had stopped into one of the many vintage stores near studio and snagged the bench you see in the pictures. I love it! Super sturdy and nice and deep with lots of room for sitting! 

Location: WSU campus

Why I like it: So much variety! From wide open fields, to forests, winding trails, bridges, creeks and even some cool buildings for an urban feel.

Givens Family – Love and Laughter!

Oh my goodness! Last nights family session just had me laughing the entire time! At one point the daughters convinced their mom to try a cheerleading move (check my IG stories) which left everyone on the ground laughing. Then of course the grad finale was everyone pulling on animal onsies! This is a family that clearly enjoys each other and has fun! 

Wedding at the Beach! This weekend!

I am gearing up for this weekends beach wedding! I have been anxiously watching the weather and looks dry!! While the wedding itself is in Astoria the plan is to have the first look as well as the bridal party pictures on the beach. I am so excited!! The plan is to share some behind the scenes shots on my IG account. You can follow along here https://www.instagram.com/shellyfryphotography/

I am still available if anyone is interested in a photo shoot at the beach this Sunday July 18th. Let’s talk ASAP to make this happen! The weather looks great! Feeling spontaneous? Let’s do it!

Thanks for stopping by! 

Leading with Love, Shelly

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