Moments from 2015

We're just about ready to shut off the lights and close the door on 2015, but before we do, I wanted to share some of the moments that happened that some people may not have seen.  It is true this year, that while I may not have done a lot in the way of personal projects, with photography or design, I was very busy for the most part with both.

In January, we started off with some family portraits of our good friends, the Cramers.  They're such a bright and fun group and we will always be thankful for them introducing us to Silver Beach Pizza.

The Cramer Cousins, January 2015.

The Cramer Cousins, January 2015.

In February, I resumed shooting hotels in the area, starting with the Hilton Garden Inn in Elkhart.  From there, I did the Holiday Inn Express in Roseland, and Candlewood Suites in South Bend.  

On March 28th, our family grew just a little larger, with my sister having her first child.  This is little Patrick Daly Jr.  Or, P.J., as we call him.

Patrick Daly Jr., March 28th, 2015

Patrick Daly Jr., March 28th, 2015

We didn't stop there.  My sister in law Kelly welcomed her first child also.  Gavin Michael Bone was born August 31st.

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Every now and then I receive a surprise request from someone wanting to purchase a print from the few I have displayed in the area.  This request came from Kyle, who visited a restaurant near Notre Dame called, The Mark.  For those that don't know, I have photos on the walls there, as well as Uptown Kitchen.  (Shout-out to Jonathan!  Thank you!)  Kyle bought the print below, which is of one of my favorites of campus.  So, thanks Kyle, you have good taste!

Sunset at Notre Dame, taken in 2013. 

Sunset at Notre Dame, taken in 2013. 

Later in the Summer, I had the privilege of shooting a friend of ours wedding.  Our families have deep history, so saying no wasn't really an option.  Congratulations to Rob and Kim, who married on July 25th.

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Then it came time for a much needed vacation.  My wife and I decided on taking the Lake Michigan Circle Tour.  We ate like kings and queens, soaked in as many sunsets as Mother Nature would allow, and even arose early enough for a few sunrises.  I even bought my first NFL jersey.  I'm very proud.  

We took time to watch deer, we hiked trails, and witnessed the wonderful power of Michigan's waterfalls.  We also saw the Milky Way and drove through an enchanted tunnel of trees.  I may have take a photo or two, or 543, I'm not sure.

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Someow, during all this chaos, I finally finished our basement.  It only took me 11 years.  What can I say?  Life gets in the way sometimes.  We absolutely love it.  

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For those that haven't already noticed, my print site was updated on Smugmug too.  It's now easier than ever to order prints!  Smugmug is fantastic at handling prints.  Their quality is outstanding and their shipping is fast!  I also added a bunch of new items, like puzzles, coasters, fridge magnets and much more.  Check it out here!

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Christmas is coming next week, Star Wars comes out tomorrow, and I turn 40 on Sunday.  Yikes.  Most people would probably have a harder time with it, but I'm welcoming it.  There was a time when I wasn't sure I would reach it, so for this, I'm thankful.  Bring it!  Little does my wife know that the search for a new muscle car has already begun.  Shh.  It'll be our secret, right?  I can use turning 40 as mid-life crisis excuse!  It all makes sense in my world.  My world has classic Chevelles, dragons, Maya kisses, lots of pizza, and never-ending Star Wars movies.  It's nice here.  Serene, in fact.  I think I'll stay.

See you in 2016 folks.  May the Force be with You.

-JR