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Slow down. Be present. Remember your priorities. These words were my mantra over the last week. Between those repeating words and my very vocal desire for snow, it has been said that I’m partially to blame for Winter Storm Nemo (sorry about that). It’s funny how 2+ feet of snow can slow you down.

I’ve been going to bed at a reasonable hour. Closing my computer when I wasn’t actively using it. Exercising. Taking breaks to embroider, to go on walks, to have actual conversations that didn’t involve multi-tasking. I drove the long way home just to enjoy quiet music and empty snowy streets. Lastly, I’ve taken much needed times of introspection. These times have brought great joy, rejuvenation, and appreciation for my life.

In yoga yesterday, my oh so fabulously special instructor, Gwen, spoke about asking questions. I began to think of all the things that have troubled or frustrated me lately, and began to ask questions of my own.  Questions on how I can be fully present in my own life, my marriage, my work, my health. I think there are few things in life more valuable than self-awareness, and the ability to ask & answer questions with clarity and honesty. It’s life-changing.

Our conversation ended with a comment about friendship that launched an entire new set of questions for my life… but it also gave me a feeling of warmth and gratitude that continued through my day, and on through this morning. In short… I have amazing people in my life. But that is for another post…

 036-365 Homework

City Traffic 037-365

My Guys 038-365

Just keep snowing, just keep snowing 039-365

Miriam 040-365

Snow Fall 041-365

Wilson Mountain Reservation 042-365

Cheers,

Briana

I’m so excited to share my first official shoot of 2012! Our original session date was pushed back due to rain, and we serendipitously wound up choosing the most beautiful day of the year, thus far. We laughed, we wandered, we bonded.   To top everything off, our session was bookended with delicious locally brewed beers. It was a perfect start to the season.

Meet Derek & Danielle:

As New England natives, and *naturally* huge fans of Boston sports, Fenway Park was a fitting place to start. With bright colors and countless nooks, this beloved ballpark is  a wonderful location for a couple like Derek & Dani. Derek was free to play (and would probably swat me if I shared the outtakes), while Dani (the yin to his yang) was able to relax & enjoy the quiet that the off season provides. Dani was a bit shy for the camera at first, but started to work it pretty quickly. I don’t know what I love more… that beautiful smile below, or the smile Derek has while watching her.

Color + typography + snuggles = awesome

After pausing to switch lenses, I looked up and caught a quick, natural moment… quickly followed by a photobombing. St Patty’s was the day before, and apparently these guys never ended the party. I’m pretty sure they wanted their own shoot.

Next, we headed over to The Fens to enjoy the golden hour.  I’m obsessed with the Phragmites there, so I was disappointed to see that they are in the process of being removed.  Thankfully, we were still able to catch a few magical moments in the reeds, and the section that has already been burnt provided an interesting (though dirty) place to explore.

Last stop on our ramble was amidst the Fenway Victory Gardens. Enchanting and hushed, some gardeners who tend to these plots have created their own romantic little worlds… some complete with hammock. These quiet moments were my favorite of the day.

Danielle & Derek, I had such a good time! I’m looking forward to your wedding day, and, of course, getting together for Shephards Pie.

Cheers,

Briana

I am often asked if I have an “ideal” client & style, and truthfully, I could never narrow that focus; I love variety. What I love is creating images that are true to the subjects. What inspires me is a couple who is authentic… and desires that their photographs are as well.  That said, imagine my excitement when Jason requested a lifestyle portrait session with his partner, Kevin. Added bonus: Jason & Kevin are two of my favorite people in the world. Photographing people I love in love doing what they love… it’s better than a double rainbow. 

We started this session in their new home. Cicero says that a room without books is like a body without a soul. I’m happy to say these boys have got soul! As scholars, lovers of literature, and fellow hardcover book-snobs (represent), their extensive library is prominent in every room.

*Special FB/Twitter shout out to the first person who can guess my favorite detail in their office.

Well balanced as a couple, they are equally balanced in lifestyle. Content with quiet time at home, but also extremely active in the community, we naturally needed to capture both sides of their life. After a time of study & relaxation at home, Kevin & Jason were ready to hit the streets!

The Boston skyline is stunning.  The vitality of an urban setting juxtaposed with the beauty & intimacy of nature makes Boston one of my favorite cities in the world… and a perfect backdrop for these two.

Snuggly.

To see a few more from this session, visit their Facebook Album

Fellas… I adore you. I can’t wait for our follow up session this winter!

Cheers,

Briana

After The Storm

And there will come a time, you'll see, with no more tears.
And love will not break your heart, but dismiss your fears.
Get over your hill and see what you find there,
with grace in your heart and flowers in your hair.

This song has a special place in my heart. It helped me through a very difficult season.  I love Mumford & Sons so much, for what their music has meant to me, and so many other reasons. There really is too much to say. So a few quick points:

-Their lyrics have substance & truth... and quote Shakespeare
-Their music is both lovely & evocative
-They use the word "heart" more than anybody should, and yet it only makes me smile.
-2 words: Railroad Revival
-1 word: Timshel
-Musicians from London= my kryptonite
-Banjos are hot
-Marcus has a book club

Tonight, they will be the featured band for the Invisible Children:25 event in Austin TX.
 I can only imagine how many people who would not have participated in this event will
now be involved thanks to M&S agreeing to play. I'm excited to see how many people will
learn about this wonderful organization, and hopefully spread the word. I encourage everyone
 reading to check out the event page. It's too late for many to spend the full 25 hours in
silence, but everyone has a chance to at least take out 25 minutes, and donate $25, to this
special event. To find out if you can Break The Silence in your own city, check out the website. 

Cheers, Briana

Fast Tube by Casper

Let every man and woman count himself immortal.  Let him catch the revelation of Jesus in his resurrection.  Let him say not merely, “Christ is risen,” but “I shall rise.”  ~Phillips Brooks

I’m enjoying a work-free weekend at home with my darling James, but I had to briefly sign on to share with you this piece of inspiring work by the insanely talented Jeremy Cowart.  I have long been a fan of Jeremy, and am continually intrigued and empowered by watching his artistic process. Jeremy, thanks for sharing your fabulous creativity, and providing me (and many others) with the perfect piece to represent my greatest passions of art, of music, of faith and humanity. You made my heart soar.

I’m off to cuddle with my husband and dream of the delicious ham I’ll be cooking for our Easter Feast tomorrow.  While I fondly look back on the Easter Sundays of my childhood; complete with church pageants, chocolate eggs, epic neighborhood egg hunts, and matching sibling outfits (oh the photos I could share), I’m particularly fond of the newer traditions I have started. This holiday has taken on a whole new meaning as I adjust to life in New England. After a particularly blizzardy winter, paired with a season of personal & physical brokenness, I merely have to take a walk outside to be reminded of what this weekend means to me. I have been raised in church, but I think no matter your beliefs, there is something so beautiful and transcendent about Christ’s story, and the power of hope.  As I walk around on my healthy & tumor-free ankle; as I see in the newly blooming trees, I witness first hand that after a time of deathly cold, the warmth of life can return… I am able to see that new life, and it all begins with hope. Mine comes from my faith, and I hope that is something each of you can find in your life, whatever form that may take. I look forward to celebrating that hope & faith tomorrow, without the fanfare. Just  the simplicity of good friends, good food, & celebrating good news… it’s truly a blessing indeed.

Cheers, Briana

?

“Slow down and enjoy life. It’s not only the scenery you miss by going to fast – you also miss the sense of where you are going and why.” – Eddie Cantor

I have plans to start jogging again soon. My ankle is still a bit weak, but I have healed nicely from my surgery. As I plan my return to the track, I remind myself what my biggest weakness will be: pacing. I purposely jog with James because he reminds me to recognize my limits. I often run too fast, just hoping to reach my target sooner… and we all know how that story goes. Honestly, this has been a weakness in most areas of my life. As a young adult, I barreled through my life at an alarming pace, never wanting to miss an opportunity. I am training myself to slow down a bit, fighting my nature as it tempts me to go harder, do more, and push myself to exhaustion. Balancing work, family, art, community, and a need to nurture my own soul, I have learned that slow(er) and steady really do produce the most satisfying results. I understand that sometimes sprints are required, but I’m curious who else has found themselves overconfident in how long they can keep that up? Also, I have to watch out for the opposite extreme, where I slow to the point of stopping. Where I meander instead of deciding ahead of time how far or how long I want to train, with no clear motivation. I discuss this time and time again, but balance is oh so important. I’m sure this guy agrees with me.
Without realistic pacing, I may never reach my destination, or if I do, chances are I will arrive injured, stressed, and without an appreciation for the process.  I feel I am continually learning to evaluate my priorities as I balance simplifying life while still challenging myself. I know I am not alone in this.  What priorities or plans have you found make your life a success? How do you define success? Beyond the sparkle & fantasy that frequently (and equally) distracts and drives you, what do you want? There are big changes on the horizon, both personally and professionally, and I’m quickly realizing that my hyper-meticulous planning will only be beneficial if I answer those larger questions first.  I feel that I’m rambling a bit. I wish I could be more precise, could have all of the answers, and could share all of my exact thoughts with you clearly, right now… but I can’t.  I guess that’s the point of this post.

So here we go. Deep breath. Big Picture. Focus. Find some clear direction. Soon enough I’ll take that first. calculated step. And then another. And then another. Likely a bit wheezy, but hopefully at just the right stride, and surely with many of you right there with me.

Cute Roulette

In case anybody needed a pick me up today, I thought I should share this link.

Cheers, Briana

Fenway & I will be reunited tonight (hollaaaa). Current uber=girly debate: what to wear. My combo of walking cast & striped scarf never failed the last 2 seasons, but I definitely need some game day gear NOT sponsored by BIDMC/my most recent bone tumor. I’ve decided to go on the hunt for a great pair of red socks, just in case the game-day luck still hovers in my feet.

Rain is on the forecast, and it’s been a rough start for Red Sox Nation, but I’m still thrilled to be parking my bum in the bleachers this evening.  Lackey, as one Orange County transplant to another, please try to keep this evening pain free. I much prefer to cheer & wave around my over-priced hot dog than cry in my DD hot cocoa.

Go Sox,

Briana

On the Turning Away

It’s a rainy day here, which musically mean 1 of 2 things will be playing on my stereo: moody singer songwriter, or a bit of rock (typically from across the pond). Today, I let the radio decide for me. As I turned the key, the engine whirred, and WFNX asked me if I was ready to rock. I happily confirmed that yes, I was. Taking my favorite route along the river, I watched the sun rise & sang my heart out. Apologies to the other early morning commuters who are put off by that much energy in the morning, and a hat tip to those singing right along with me!

I normally say a few words about the song choice, but really, Pink Floyd needs no explanation. So instead, I beg of you… what are your favorite rainy day bands? Sharing is Caring.

Cheers, Briana

I am less than 1 hour away from Day 2 of Jasmine Star’s FREEEEE 2 day workshop, at http://creativelive.com/live. Join in the twitter conversation at @jasminestar & @creativelive, or #askjasmine. Seriously, I adore this woman, and highly respect how much she is willing to share. It will take me awhile to organize my notes, considering the vast amount of information she rapidly spits out (literally and figuratively, hehe). I’ll be happy to share my notes in the future, but listening to Jasmine’s passion just makes you want to conquer the world, so I hope you tune in!

Anyone who shares in community with me in the twittosphere knows that I have New York on the brain. Craving (and recommending) brunch at Alice’s Tea Cup.  Wistfully preparing potential outings around Central Park for the children I work with and forwarding those to their parents for their upcoming trip. Following posts of culinary tours, marathons, subway encounters, and other adventures embarked upon by my old co-workers at SAB.  Making sad yet hopeful faces towards James while casually mentioning that Daniel Radcliffe is on Broadway, and I haven’t seen a show in years. Laughing my bum off reading updates from @Bronxzooscobra, then whimpering at the news he was found, then cheering to see “he” will continue tweeting from the zoo. Reading Through the Children’s Gate by Adam Gopnik and missing life in the city.I can’t seem to escape NYC, and I yearn hop on the next train and be reunited.

I (still) find New York to be intoxicating. Naturally, I am drawn to many of opportunities that the city is well known for: art, theater, food, architecture, people from all walks of life, to name a handful. The city is a dream to photograph, so that is an immense bonus. There are countless reasons to love New York. What resonates with me the most today is that I am strangely drawn to the peace that I consistently can find amongst the chaos. I am an extrovert who desperately loves her quiet time, though by quiet time, this means allowing myself to be still as the rest of the world bustles on. My favorite memory within my 20 years of visiting/living in the city involves a beautiful winter day. I tossed my wallet and chapstick into my camera bag, bundled up, and walked the city alone until my feet literally bled (an unfortunate but entertaining story for the future). I wandered for 10 hours, speaking only when giving directions, acknowledging or thanking a passing stranger’s thoughtfulness, or ordering food. I recall finding myself on 34th st & 7th ave, frozen on the street corner for a solid 5 minutes; taking in the towering buildings, watching as a myriad of diverse people passed by me, listening to a symphony of city sounds (ala August Rush)… in that moment, realizing just how much I loved being lost in the crowd. Strangely enough, that moment holds a place in my top 5 most peaceful experiences. To stand in the middle of madness and feel complete tranquility, that is how I know I love (and strangely, feel understood by) New York.

Everything else is just an added perk.

Why do you love NY? I would love to hear about it!

Cheers, Briana

In honor of the Bronx Zoo Cobra (and his fabulous tweets, holla), I thought I should post a suggestion of where to go on his wild adventures in the city. Live it up Cobra, but try to get in a little book learnin’ at some point.

Stephanie and I go way back, both as friends (close to 17 years now), and as photographer/client (engagement, model for commercial work, fine art, to name a few). Stephanie recently headed east from sunny Orange County, and thankfully brought a weekend of sunshine with her, enabling us to pull off the shoot that we had scheduled without her turning into an Otter Pop.

I’ve been itching to shoot at a nearby abandoned factory on the river and the surrounding nature paths, so I was excited that Stephanie is game for anything! It is such a special treat to have a dear friend, sweet soul,  and artistic muse wrapped into one amazing (and beautiful) person.  I feel truly blessed.

Cheers, Briana

Life beats down and crushes the soul and art reminds you that you have one.  ~Stella Adler

My grandpa Larry was a dear and mighty influence on my life. He taught me how to walk the fine line between manners and silliness. This was the man who never let me slurp my soup, or get too sassy, but was not above pirouetting should the moment call for it. His stories captivated me, his humor warmed me, and his firm hand provided much needed structure.  When in need of a peaceful state of mind, I can travel back to the days of strolling by the stream on his property (and chasing his poor fat cats). I remember being in awe of this man who would tuck me in, then take out the adults & out dance everyone on the floor.  As I grew older, our visits were less frequent, but they opened up a world of stories saved for a more mature age. I still remember him briefly sharing about his days in Los Angeles, when my mother was just a little girl. He spent much of his time with Jerry Lewis, Dean Martin, & Tony Curtis; they made home movies, took their ladies all about town, and (simply put), they lived. After he passed, I was given what is now one of my greatest treasures: photos from that cherished time in his life. They were one of my earliest inspirations when it came to photography. They hang on my walls (along with a collection of the generations of family since) as a constant reminder of the importance that photographs hold, and encouragement to live my life to the fullest. I remember he described those days as feeling larger than life. I never will have the chance to tell him this, but that is what he will always be to me.

(my mother and her dog)

(Grandpa and his dear friends)

(A few shots of my family)

(Mine and James’ addition to the family wall)

It won’t be anytime soon (so don’t get too excited moms & dads), but, I look forward to passing these down to my own children, and adding their adorable faces to the wall.

Cheers,

Briana

I’m Shipping Up to Boston

I know it’s not Monday, but I can’t get resist posting a little Dropkick Murphy’s today. If I can’t be back in Ireland for St Patrick’s day, at least I get to enjoy the next best thing! God Bless Boston

Cheers, Briana

I have known many

liked not a few

loved only one

so this toast’s for you

St Patrick’s day in Boston is about as close as James & I can get to our wedding week without hopping on an Aer Lingus flight. Tonight I will lift a pint to that handsome, stubborn, Jameson drinking, Boondock lovin’, no nonsense, hard working fella that I am blessed to share my life with. I love you, my sheepy soulmate (baaaah!).

Cheers, Briana

*Selected images shown above were from my wedding and provided by my dear friends Trooper Kristianson and Will Rosenberg

I am not ashamed to admit that almost a year later, I still miss LOST. I occasionally wake up on Wednesdays and feel a (somewhat pleasant) anxiety, only to then realize that I had not been utterly confused and gut-wrenched from 8-9pm the night before. There must have been a new anxiety disorder specifically related to LOST fans. Fans are torn over the ending, but I still think it was one of the greatest shows ever created.  Surprisingly, while I miss the show, I have not been able to watch anything from my complete set yet, including the special epilogue. Perhaps I know at that point I will have to let go.

Above are a few of my favorite images from a project inspired by the shows most memorable moments or themes. For all the fans out there, what was your favorite story?
If you would like to purchase a print of any of these photos, connect with me over email, or purchase directly through my online gallery

Namaste, Briana

“A hot dog at the ballgame beats roast beef at the Ritz. “

~Humphrey Bogart

Tickets are in the mail. Tufts of bright green grass are peeking through the snow. Spring couldn’t come soon enough!

Cheers, Briana

Bring On The Wonder

I have been a fan of Sarah McLachlan since before she was a household name. By sheer luck, my family stumbled upon a small, free concert she put on in central park, just as she was releasing Fumbling Towards Ecstasy. I’ve been on Team Sarah ever since.

I “experienced” this song off her newest album on a snowy day, a rare afternoon in Boston where the streets were nearly empty, and everything was freshly white & enchanting. Since then, this song has become a bit of a mantra for me. Since I was little, I have been amazed by the wonder of this world. However, the past few years have beat me up a little, and for awhile, the world looked a bit dull. Whenever life seems to lose it’s shine, I like to turn this on (or just sing it to myself), and remind myself not to push that wonder down deep. Each stage of life is too short, too beautiful, not to delight in.

Cheers, Briana

I should probably express right now that I love beer. Good beer. Craft beers and microbrews, in particular. In addition to better taste and satisfaction of supporting smaller businesses, I find that craft breweries still see brewing (and drinking) as an art. the   Upon moving to Boston, enjoying a good ale has transitioned from pleasure to interest to hobby. As I type this, James is in our kitchen embarking on his first home brewing adventure.

James and I are not quite sure how this started, but most milestones in both our dating and married life has involved a good brew, our most epic yet being a tour of the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, with all of our guests, the day after our wedding. Here is a cherished picture of that day… destination weddings are awesome.

Last week was the first trip we have taken alone, with no other responsibilities or obligations, since our honeymoon over 3 years ago.  Naturally, we realized we needed to keep with our consistently successful travel theme of Hoppy = Happy,  so we headed up to Portsmouth, NH.

Portsmouth is a lovely town full of good food, great beer (holla!), and charming shops. I believe it deserves a spot on a list for Perfect New England Getaways. I must give a quick shout out to Scott & Doug at The Ale House Inn for our perfect accommodations, and for being the greatest of hosts. Their warmth and knowledge pushed our trip from enjoyable to beyond fabulous. Also, this inn was every artists dream. If I could make their lobby my living room, I would. I’m surprised I didn’t damage the gorgeous wood flooring with my constant drooling. The inn is a former Brew Co. warehouse, remodeled with such amazing style and attention to detail. Their website does not lie when it claims to be Portsmouth’s ultimate destination for those seeking a unique blend of history, style and comfort. I could not recommend them more highly!

The rest of our trip consisted of our favorite things. Local pubs, bookstores, sifting through junk yard-esque antique shops (scoring a bottle press for our home brewing in the process), and naturally, taking far too many photos. Though really, can there every be enough photos?   Here are a few highlights:

James and I return to everyday life tomorrow. Refreshed. Life is beautiful again.

Cheers, Briana

Last week, I saw The Civil Wars (also known as Joy Williams and John Paul White). As I made glaringly obvious with my first Music Monday, which featured this amaaaaaazing duo, I love The Civil Wars. Love love love. Their live show was nothing short of charming. If you already love their music, scour the internet for videos of the new track Oh Henry, or their mind-blowing cover of Disarm (smashing pumpkins). If you don’t already love them… get on the ball!

Cheers, Briana