Shara Lana Photography Blog

Wonderful Neighbors

Friday, December 04, 2009 15:08

Took a few shots at Thanksgiving for my sweet neighbors.

A good looking bunch I do have to say!!!

Here is my Steel Magnolia. Great couple!

And here is the WOLFPACK!!!

Christmas Ready

Friday, December 04, 2009 15:08

What a Doll Baby!!!

Wednesday, October 21, 2009 10:03

I was so happy to go meet this cutie but she was not ready for me. Poor baby had the sniffles and no nap which meant very short session with no smiles. But with just a few minutes of shooting, I have to say, I like what we got. Mama should be thrilled to hang some of these up in their beautiful home. So many came out just PERFECT for a framed canvas. I can't wait to see them displayed in their new home. And I can't wait till our next session. I am sure we will get some big cheesy grins.

This is Worth sharing. :D

Thursday, September 24, 2009 07:17

A sweet new friend of mine sent me an email that I had to share. It is pretty Amazing. I found a video to go along with it and you will find it at the end of this post. Exciting!

A doctor-friend wrote:

A couple of days ago I was running (I use that term very loosely) on my treadmill, watching a DVD sermon by Louie Giglio...and I was BLOWN AWAY! I want to share what I learned....but I fear not being able to convey it as well as I want. I will share anyway.

He (Louie) was talking about how inconceivably BIG our God is...how He spoke the universe into being...how He breathes stars out of His mouth that are huge raging balls of fire...etc. etc. Then He went on to speak of how this star-breathing, universe creating God ALSO knitted our human bodies together with amazing detail and wonder. At this point I am LOVING it (fascinating from a medical standpoint, you know.) ....and I was remembering how I was constantly amazed during medical school as I learned more and more about God's handiwork. I remember so many times thinking....'How can ANYONE deny that a Creator did all of this???'

Louie went on to talk about how we can trust that the God who created all this, also has the power to hold it all together when things seem to be falling apart...how our loving Creator is also our sustainer.

And then I lost my breath.

And it wasn't because I was running my treadmill, either!!!

It was because he started talking about laminin.

I knew about laminin. Here is how wikipedia describes them: 'Laminins are a family of proteins that are an integral part of the structural scaffolding of basement membranes in almost every animal tissue.' You see....laminins are what hold us together....LITERALLY. They are cell adhesion molecules. They are what holds one cell of our bodies to the next cell.. Without them, we would literally fall apart. And I knew all this already. But what I didn't know is what laminin LOOKED LIKE..

But now I do.

And I have thought about it a thousand times since (already)....

Here is what the structure of laminin looks like...AND THIS IS NOT a 'Christian portrayal' of it....if you look up laminin in any scientific/medical piece of literature, this is what you will see...

Now tell me that our God is not the coolest!!!

Amazing.

The glue that holds us together ... ALL of us... is in the shape of the cross!

"For by him all things were created; things in heaven and on earth , visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things HOLD TOGETHER." Colossians 1:15-17.

Call me crazy. I just think that is very, very, very cool.

Thousands of years before the world knew anything about laminin, Paul penned those words. And now we see that from a very LITERAL standpoint, we are held together...one cell to another....by the cross.

You would never in a quadrillion years convince me that is anything other than the mark of a Creator who knew EXACTLY what laminin 'glue' would look like long before Adam even breathed his first breath!!

" Faith is not knowing what the future holds, but knowing who holds the future."

I wanted you to know and to undertstand that YOU are being held together by the cross of Jesus Christ. His love. His forgiveness and His marvelous power.....

Check out Louie Giglio's Sermon Here.

Vacation

Wednesday, September 02, 2009 11:15

Here is a pic that I took on our vacation recently. I have a TON more to go through and will post some more later, when I get the time. Our family has been so busy with the move and the bazillion things that go along with that and then vacation and now family visits. We are enjoying it all so much though. I have slowed Shara Lana Photography down a good bit for now and will ease back into it when we are ALL ready. We are focusing on getting settled and accustomed to our new home. So far, we LOVE it. Blessings to all! Hugs and Love. Shara

Burkhalter Maternity

Monday, July 27, 2009 08:39

I just love this little family. As you can see, it is growing. ; ) Crystal and Luke were married last year in Savannah Georgia at the beautiful Forsyth Mansion. They are one of my Georgia couples and being the Georgia girl that I am, our hearts easily connected. Forever close to my heart and always in my prayers. I am so happy to see them so blessed. Welcome to the world Sonny Jay!!!

Drs. Mike and Myra Ammermon

Saturday, November 21, 2009 10:41

What a day!!! A wet day. A day that had many challenges. A beautiful outdoor wedding planned but moved in due to rain. A grandfather a couple doors away struggling to survive. Last minute changes and challenges on such a big day could send some into a nervous break down but not for these two. Their hearts are totally in it. The real meaning of the day was at the center of every moment and every breath. Their focus steady and never wavering. A true testament to their character and their love. Some might would think that a day such as theirs would be called ruined but what I and so many other very privileged guests saw was a day cleansed by the rain. It brought with it a beautiful luster. It seemed to have washed all that was not important away. Would not have been possible without this rock solid couple standing arm in arm together before the Lord. He was there, they were there and that was all that mattered. But as those that love the Lord know, that was not all that was given. This day was filled with total comfort and splendor, fitting for such a deserving couple. The details were so "Mike and Myra". The flowers were nothing short of amazing and the hydrangeas were their crowning glory. The friends' and family's support was so touching. Their pastor surely delivered a divine message and ceremony. And the barn for the reception was so ideal. Mike and Myra, the animal lovers that they are, both being Veterinarians, kept me imagining a scene from the Disney Classic Snow White. You know the one, when all the animals gathered around her. I could just picture coming from the surrounding woods, the little critters, deer, foxes, bears and the good Lord only knows what else. It was really a beautiful day and I thank God for orchestrating it so perfectly for Mike and Myra. And I also thank Him and this beautiful couple for allowing me the awesome privilege of being there that Glorious Day.

Sneak Peek for Dr's Mike and Myra Ammermon Congratulations!!!

Sunday, June 07, 2009 17:21

Just want to give this beautiful couple a few images to enjoy. Their wedding was a so sweet, a reflection of their love for one another. More to come once my family and I settle in Chapel Hill. Our move is tomorrow. : D

Mr. and Mrs. Roberts

Friday, May 29, 2009 09:18

Jessica and Rhodes are such a beautiful couple. Their story is soul churning and heart filling. I was so blessed being a witness to these two becoming one. This marriage was definitely a God thing. : ) His presence was surly felt that day. And surly right with Him was Tell looking down with great joy for these two sweet hearts and his daughter Ava. What a Glorious Day He provided. The sky was so blue, the wind was just right and the warmth just seemed to embrace everyone. Jessica and Rhodes love for one another is so pure and reflects the love that they share for the Lord. This marriage stands firm on the 'Rock'. The future for this gorgeous little family is so bright and exciting. I can't wait to hear all the stories that they will be so blessed to have. Little Miss Ava has such a sweet Mama and Daddy to raise her. Jessica, Rhodes and Ava, You will always have a part of my heart.

I had the privilege of taking my daughter Kyla with me. It was her first wedding. I can't begin to explain just how proud I am of her. She is so talented. I am sure that it won't be long and I will be in tow with her. : ) There are a few images below that she took. I will make sure to point those out. I love them. :D

Kyla caught this little bird watching the ceremony. Neat, hunh?

Her flowers were so sweet and delicate.

I really love this dress shot.

She's a little Goddess. : )

Just such a beautiful girl, inside and OUT! ; )

I loved Rhodes Linens. LOL Perfect beach attire. ; )

Perfect, right??? : D

I had to get Little Miss Ava's dress shot too. : )

Kyla grabbed this sweet image of Rhodes getting Ava dressed. Great coverage Kyla! : )

AND she got this of the ladies peeking out at Rhodes. I think this is one of Kyla's favorites. It is cute!

You are stunning Jessica.

And Handsome Rhodes. : )

The ceremony was so sweet. Little Ava was center stage of course. : ) Isn't this precious?!?!?

O, the joy! Such Happiness!

Woo Hoo!!!!!!

Mr. and Mrs. Roberts. : ) I think ALL 3 are as Happy as can Be!!! :D

Another from my extremely talented daughter. Love it!

Congratulations you two love birds.

I am so Happy for you two. You look Gorgeous together.

Kyla got this GREAT shot too! WOW! Love it!

But this one is my favorite that she got. Just love it soooooo MUCH!!! Way to go Kyla. Rhodes and Jessica, aren't you glad that I brought her??? LOL She is AWESOME!

May your days be full of Love and Laughter.

THANK YOU!!! From the bottom of my heart.

Saturday, November 21, 2009 10:46

Thank you is just not enough. I am so tearfully grateful for all those that have given to this beautiful country. They are some of the most amazing men and women. The sacrifices made are immeasurable. Some have given time, some have given limbs and some have given all. It is astronomical to even begin to think of all the tears and heartaches that have drenched our country's flag. I am extremely sad today for those families that are broken, battered and bruised. Those families separated, scared and succumbed. I hate that some are without their loved ones today, I wish that could be changed. But it can't and I want those left behind, those left to pick up the pieces or those left with the scars to know that I am bursting with pride knowing that I am a sister to those heroes. I am honored with the knowledge that these great men and women love this country and its people enough, to fight for and die for us. Our freedom is not free. There is an extremely high price. It is paid daily by this country's bravest and finest. Please take the time today and everyday to thank our Service men and women. Ask if there is ANYTHING that you could do for THEM. They do so much for us. The greatest among us are those that serve. I Salute you all today and Everyday!

"Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you shall be your servant. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many."(Mark 10:43-45)

What a STAR!!!

Friday, May 22, 2009 10:30

Let me tell you, I am so proud of my daughter Kyla. She had her first lead role in a play and she was AWESOME!!!! She should definitely get a Grammy or an Oscar for her performance. Really. Seriously!!! She was SO GOOD!!! I cried during the end of the play because I was just so, so PROUD!!! The play was Hysterical. Kyla was a self absorbed teen taking phone calls in the Library filled with NERDS! They all ganged up on my daughter and let her have it. Actually, they threw her out of the library. Kyla played the part so well, she was so theatrical. I just thank God that she is really not like her character. LOL CONGRATULATIONS Kyla for a Outstanding Performance!!! The whole cast was great, congratulations to you ALL!!!

Sneak Peek for Jessica and Rhodes

Monday, May 25, 2009 15:06

(image above by Kyla)

(image above by Kyla)

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Baby Grant Garrett

Wednesday, May 13, 2009 06:11

Here is a very special boy. I was so happy to finally meet this little guy. His name is Grant and he is the gorgeous son of Amy and Garrett. It has been such a joy to watch this couple's journey through this magical time. They are beautiful people and now they have a BEAUTIFUL Family. Baby Grant is just the perfect addition.

MISS DAISY JANE

Monday, May 11, 2009 14:43

ORDER PICTURES HERE

Look at this sweetie! She is the daughter of my parent's neighbors. I grew up with her Daddy. They are always helping my parents when needed. And Daisy Jane's Mom said that my parent's are always helping them too. It is nice to have such great neighbors. : ) I so enjoyed meeting Miss Daisy Jane. She has the biggest blue eyes and is so juicy. Just the way I like them. : ) She definitely has her Mama's red hair, what a lucky girl!

Happy Mother's Day to the BESTEST Mama in the Whole Wide World!!!!

Thursday, May 21, 2009 12:30

Just want to tell my Mama that I love her dearly and think the world of her. She is the heart and soul of our family. Hugs and Kisses!!! Have a Blessed Day!!!!

Mama, you're a wonderful mother,
So gentle, yet so strong.
The many ways you show you care
Always make me feel I belong.
You're patient when I'm foolish;
You give guidance when I ask;
It seems you can do most anything;
You're the master of every task.
You're a dependable source of comfort;
You're my cushion when I fall.
You help in times of trouble;
You support me whenever I call.
I love you more than you know;
You have my total respect.
If I had my choice of mothers,
You'd be the one I'd select!

Jessica and Rhodes

Friday, May 29, 2009 09:35

VIEW ALL IMAGES HERE

VIEW THEIR SLIDESHOW HERE

What an AMAZING couple Jessica and Rhodes are!!! Their love for one another is so true, honorable and pure. I have been tremendously blessed by their Love Story. It is such a privilege to witness this flourishing LOVE. Their relationship did not start in a school, or by a chance meeting. It started after Jessica lost her first love, her husband Tell, in the Iraq war. In a tragic accident, Tell and seven other men made the ultimate sacrifice to their country, and he, like many others, left behind a wife and a 5 month old baby girl. While devastated by this tragedy, Jessica was blessed in the fact that their love for one another had given them a smart and beautiful daughter named Ava. Their sweet baby, who only had fourteen short days with her father, will always carry with her the knowledge and pride that her Daddy was a true American hero. Little did Jessica know that on the most heartbreaking day of her life, in the very same accident that took her love away, God spared the life of one very special Lieutenant. Once this Lieutenant returned back to the states, he had a self imposed obligation. This obligation was to make sure that Jessica, a new mom and now a widow, would be given the support that she needed. Grass was cut, fences were built and stories of Tell were shared. He was such a generous man. Giving so much of himself to make sure that Jessica and her baby daughter, while faced with such tragedy, would be tended to and provided for. However, this Lieutenant did end up getting back a hundred fold of all he gave. He ended up with a beautiful Love and a beautiful new family. Yes, this Lieutenant is Rhodes. He and Jessica will be married soon in beautiful Charleston. I can not wait to be there with them on that glorious day. What an honor! This marriage without a doubt is an amazing gift from God. When I look at these images with Rhodes and little Ava, I cry with joy. I love the image with Jessica in the background smiling at the sight of her baby with her new Daddy. No, Rhodes can never be Ava's biological father but there is not a doubt in anyone's mind that Tell hand picked Rhodes for Ava and Jessica. Rhodes is the only Daddy Ava has really known. Ava does hear wonderful stories from Rhodes about her father Tell. Together, Jessica and Rhodes have taken her to Washington, DC to visit Arlington National Cemetery, specifically Section 60, where the fallen soldiers from Iraq are laid to rest. Here Ava visits her father and learns from Jessica and Rhodes of the loving, honorable, and heroic man he was. They take great care in keeping the memory of Tell alive. Jessica said it best when she said that some women don't get one good man, she has been so blessed to have gotten two. Rhodes really lights up Jessica's life, and gives her hope for a beautiful and bright future. It so shows in her eyes. The love between them is so deep. Let me tell you, these two really shine! And if they could tell you why, they would give God all the glory. Just beautiful through and through. Please pray for this couple and little Ava as they begin their next chapter together. May God continue to richly bless them.
LOVE you Rhodes, Jessica
and little Miss Ava.