We love our little town.  We've been in Redfield since my son Logan was born.  In fact, we were supposed to move out of our apartment and into our new house the day he was born!  I think he realized something was happening, and he wanted to make sure he was there to see it (albeit a month early).  So, our family chipped in and frantically moved us while we welcomed Logan into the world.  We didn't even have his crib ready.  What an eventful weekend that was!  That was 16 years ago.  Fast forward through the years as we've spent many hours at the Maverick football field behind the Junior High while my daughter - Hope - cheered and then later as Logan played for the team.  We volunteered MANY hours working concession, cleaning, serving on the Board, and donating to support our local team.  Now, that field is silent and we are only able to reminisce in echoes and memories.  We also spent many days in the blazing sun watching Logan play baseball for Redfield.  We've also cheered like crazy watching him play basketball for Redfield.  I "cut my teeth" on photography, many years ago, at these games.  I have LOTS of pictures to prove that.  And, then our proud parent time came when Hope and Logan - in turn - volunteered to coach basketball in Redfield.  Watching them try to herd 5 year old kids in the same direction at the same time would make us quietly giggle.  But, them giving back meant they understood the bigger picture.  Now that they are older and on to other activities, I've turned my own volunteer time into taking adoption photos at the Redfield Animal Shelter.  And yes, I've had to talk myself down MANY times from loading them all up and taking all of those sweet faced doggies home with me.  I'm a total softie for those who have been abandoned.  I mean, look at those eyes.   

Ok, I digress.  But, this is a passion for me.

I also spend my time now chasing and photographing events in Redfield like the Color Run 5k or the beloved 4th of July parade.  We've never missed that one.  Who doesn't get chills when those leading parade sirens go off?  Or getting to see your favorite beauty queen or king?  My personal favorite is seeing everyone's cars - new and old - polished up and adorned for the event.  I try to make sure I capture everything for everyone to enjoy. 

Why do it?  Because we love our little town.  We think everyone should give back any way that they can.  We don't have large corporate sponsors for our events.  We have each other.  And, let's face it.  That's what makes small towns great.  I was raised in the small town of Star City.  I wanted my kids to experience the same. 

As I sit and enjoy my coffee on this cool rainy day, I felt compelled to say please live every moment to the fullest.  The kiddos don't stay little forever.  The field falls silent and you're left with only memories. 

Take pictures.  TONS of pictures.  You'll drive them nuts, and they may roll their eyes now and then.  But, you'll thank yourself.  Trust me.