Amy Jo Royall 12/18/12 Amy Jo Royall 12/18/12

Old film finally came to life.

I am always excited, as many are, when I find old film. I just got these pretties back from good old Wallgreens. It was a roll from a few years back, when I took a road trip with a close friend of mine to AZ. Love me some WIkiup.

Amy Jo Royall 12/17/12 Amy Jo Royall 12/17/12

A heavy heart: An emotional post.

There are no words delicate enough nor strong enough to describe the tragedy in Connecticut. Last night we cried as we read the stories surrounding the individuals and ached for the parents and loved ones of these babies. We also cried for the teachers as we heard their stories of bravery. I was once a teacher, and I can tell you, i understand the love that they had for their students. I would lay down my life for anyone of my kids. For these brave teachers, principle and counselor- that day actually came.

Last night, as Blake and I lay awake in bed, we cried as we prayed and wished there was something we could do. We all feel so helpless, and confused. No human being, could take the precious lives of babies, and his own mother unless there is a serious disconnect. Right? It goes against the very make up of our bodies, minds and spirits to protect these precious children. Is it just a slippery slop of desensitization? All i know, is that evil exists, and there is no rhyme or reason to it.

Blake and I read this chapter of scripture (3 Nephi Chapter 17). It tells of a time that the Savior's heart was saddened by the wickedness that came upon a people. He gathered the little children, and prayed, and wept unto the Father.

"And as they looked to behold they cast their eyes towards heaven, and they saw the heavens open, and they saw angels descending out of heaven as it were in the midst of fire; and they came down and encircled those little ones about, and they were encircled about with fire; and the angels did minister unto them."

I felt so much comfort, knowing that there is someone encircling those families and children affected by this, and that the Savior himself is looking after the victims of this tragedy.

Amy Jo Royall 12/16/12 Amy Jo Royall 12/16/12

Minnesota//Home

I was just home in Minnesota for about 5 days. They got 16'' of snow the day before I got there, which made for a perfect pre-Christmas visit. I am not sure if I have ever expressed (I probably have) just how much I love that state. I really love the midwest, but what I love even more is Minnesota.

While I was there it was Annie's first time seeing snow, i had some quality Birch House time with Megan Daas, took pictures of the family members I saw, and of course saw The Hobbit with my parents. I have a bunch of photos to come, most importantly that of my family. I was inspired by a post Katie Kett (who you just met in my recent blog post), about making time to take pictures of our loved ones.

I also posted a few wintery photos on the Birch House Tumblr and an update on Birch House's blog.

Did I mention I need glasses? I went in to the Dr. a bit ago, and come to find out I was not seeing things very clearly- ha. I went through the Warby Parker at home try on deal, and had such a good experience. But I am so happy with my new glass. Apparently things are sharper then I knew.

Amy Jo Royall 12/11/12 Amy Jo Royall 12/11/12

Katie Kett in full

I am so glad Katie contacted me to do these pictures of her and her pup (RIley). You know those people you meet and you just feel like your made to be friends? She is also a photographer here in Chicago. Look her up- Katie Kett Photography (now say her full name out loud- best alliteration).