Hello friends,
Thank you for joining me on this new path. I am grateful each time I see you in the live stream classes and knowing some of you are taking time to practice with the recorded classes on YouTube. Thank you for keeping connected!
As the wise Judith Hanson Lasater says “Make your inner growth your top priority and everything else will follow.” Her quote is perfect for our theme this month "Growing from the inside out."
Think about yourself as a garden. Ask yourself, am I watering the weeds or the flowers? When we grow from the inside out we are watering the flowers and softening and expanding our hearts. What are the weeds that make you feel overwhelmed or like you are losing control? Sometimes we see self-care as triage. Something we turn to when we are falling apart. Can you relate? We keep ourselves small when we focus on the weeds. Start small and grow BIG!
My first yoga experience was a hatha yoga class in 1996. I was intrigued, though, at that time, I didn’t stick with it A few years later, at the encouragement of a friend I attended a power yoga class. I was 36 years old and intrigued by the physical challenge, though my favorite part was the ending, in the final resting pose savasana. Savasana is a meditative pose at the end of class to relax the mind and body.
After a few weeks, this yoga class became sacred to me. I remember one day after class saying to myself, I wish I could feel this good every day! I had young children at the time, ages 11, 7 and 4, stillness, clarity, and relaxation were not often accessible. I’ll share a secret with you. In the early weeks of class and new to yoga, in savasana, as we on our backs, eyes closed, breath soft, I felt the ahh of my body releasing and my mind soften.
I remember using this time with no distractions, to softly organize my thoughts, sort through challenges, and decisions. I didn’t stress or beat myself up that I was “doing it wrong” it was what helped me feel better when I left. I guess I used that time to be my own therapist. It worked!
Eventually, I was able to let go of the micromanaging during savasana and realized I needed the rest, and with practice, I was able to just be. I was growing from the inside out but didn’t realize it at the time. Yoga is subtle but profound. I was softening into my heart. Not as hard on myself. I realized that taking care of my mental and physical body needed to be a priority.
As time went on I was hooked and allowed myself to grow bigger! My garden was growing. I was mentally and physically stronger, less stressed, and more patient. Letting growth happen, instead of keeping myself small. Yoga helped me grow bigger and become more patient, a better mother, wife, and friend. Opening up more of myself and making time for activities I loved, more time for, curiosity, creativity, and being out on the water!
Take a moment to ask yourself - am I watering the weeds or the flowers? If the soil is soft and the garden is in bloom maybe you are growing bigger and letting yourself soften into your heart.
Love and laughter,
Delia
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Hello friends,
Today is a new day. I love that the sunrise and sunset will be different today then it was yesterday. The flowers and trees are growing new buds, blooming, and changing colors each day. My beautiful pink dogwood tree has gone from bright fuchsia fading into a soft pink, in just a few days. Today, I am different than yesterday, and so are you. The only thing that is constant is change ~Heraclitus
I certainly did not expect to be where we are today, sadly unable to connect in person at Radiance or Ease Yoga Studios for class. I was excited about expanding my yoga teaching journey and the Spring/Summer offerings I had planned including workshops, and day retreats. Seems we are navigating uncharted territory for the unseen future.
The words change and awakening, keep repeating in my mind. Right now we are collectively “changing and being changed”. In some cases to protect ourselves and others from getting sick, save our life, or our livelihood. Perhaps, how to use the dishwasher, or work from home tactics, and new ways of communicating. What likely has not changed is our capacity to adapt gracefully or not so gracefully. In my experience, we can’t choose what might happen to us, but we can choose how we handle it, including ways that support us and being willing to ask for help.
My hope is that you have been practicing yoga at home and finding other resources to keep you supported and connected. For almost 20 years, yoga has been one of my go-to’s when I feel resistant to change. To include, asanas (physical poses),meditation, which can be as simple as sitting quietly, closing your eyes, being aware of your breath while listening to the birds in the morning before moving into your daily routine, and pranayama (breath).
“We practice for the JOY of setting aside the demands of daily life to learn more
about peace and the art of being”. ~Mary Dunn
Awakening is “coming into awareness or an act of waking from sleep”. We are all awakening to new ways of being in the world, in our families, in our jobs, in our houses or neighborhoods. Maybe how we see and treat people. Finding new or deeper ways of listening, praying, loving, caring, creating, exercising, and using nature as a healing tool will help us adapt and recover. Simply having the time to linger in bed in the quiet mornings and listening to the birds chirping and singing has been uplifting for me. We may all be awakening and changing for the better.
What are you doing differently to support your self-care?
Write down a few of the ways you are changing and awakening during this time. Let these continue to support you during stressful and changing times.
Please join me on the mat soon for weekly zoom classes, Mondays 9:30 am and Fridays 11:00 am. I would love to help support you and stay connected.
Be well and healthy!
Delia
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DeliaYoga for current online classes, Women’s Wisdom Circle, and Workshop details. Sunday, May 3rd "Awakening in Uncertain Times" Live Zoom Workshop. Details + Register
Want to join a zoom class? Go to Ease Yoga & Cafe subscribe and receive emails with weekly schedules and class Zoom links.
Classes are FREE and donations are optional. Follow Ease Yoga and Cafe on Facebook + Instagram for updates too.
FREE Online Classes (a few sample classes below)
Ease Yoga & Cafe YouTube channel.
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A Fearless Heart
This was my personal theme for the month of February the monthly theme for my yoga classes and the monthly Women’s Wisdom circle gathering that I lead with Tara. To explore the idea of a "fearless heart". There are many ways to interpret these two words. One is to have the courage to listen to the gentle wisdom that comes from our hearts. To listen to those inner feelings that guide us toward choices and decisions that help us thrive and stay balanced in life.
My fearless heart has been nudging me for some time, to prioritize one of my passions, teaching YOGA! My heart has been encouraging me to take a risk, and change things up and be open to creating more opportunities to teach yoga, lead workshops and retreats, and continue to be curious while studying the vast potential of yoga. I could hear my fearless heart saying it is time to take a “pause” in my photography business after 15 years!
As many of you know, I have been teaching Yoga in some capacity almost as long as I have been photographing clients. In 2019, I taught weekly classes, added private one on one clients, collaborated with other teachers creating unique workshops, leading day retreats, and co-lead a monthly Women’s Wisdom Circle while growing my photography business. For now, it is too much to continue both photography and yoga.
A fearless heart can mean being courageous in many ways. We don’t have to climb a mountain or jump out of an airplane. Courage can mean facing a personal challenge or expressing something that may not come easily, or simply recognizing we are just where we are supposed to be at a given moment. In Yoga and in life it’s about listening and not fearing or dismissing the wisdom that is radiating from the heart. Whether it be in a class when you practice a pose and feel you need to modify or express the pose more energetically, not from your ego but from your heart. Our heart encourages self-development, love, and compassion. For others but equally as important for ourselves.
I asked my students to reflect on a “fearless heart” on their mats in class, and out into the world. I took the time to do the same. I reflected on other times when I intuitively listened and took action not letting my mind chatter get in the way. This story came to mind.
When I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer in 2013. I was, of course, feeling all sorts of emotions but I allowed my fearless heart to emerge. I knew how fortunate I was to have an incredibly supportive family and heard my heart say, “you are loved by so many”. Let your heart be filled and supported. Contrary to my fear and overthinking, I immediately shared my diagnosis with extended family and close friends. I let myself be vulnerable, I never felt vulnerable in this way before. Prior to this, if I were asked “how would you handle a life-altering diagnosis? I don’t think I would have said: “ immediately share and create a tribe or healing posse.” This was a first for me to not overthink it but to hear what my heart was so gracefully expressing and take action.
Is there a time you remember when you listened and followed your fearless heart? It can be as simple (but not easy) as making a decision to choose self-care over agreeing to another commitment when you know you need time to recharge! Consider listening to your fearless heart! Your story will be different from mine, and that is the best part! Write your story down and read it out loud to yourself or share it with me!
Please join me on the mat and subscribe below for my newsletter!
Peace,
Delia
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“Presence” in place of “Perfection”
YOGA theme January 2020
Presence~ the state or fact of existing or being present in a place or thing.
Perfection~ the action or process of improving something until it is faultless or as faultless as possible.
I welcomed this month of January, to be more present and not jump into resolutions or what I call (re-"soul"-utions) or goals. There is a natural pause between the holidays and the start of a new year. More downtime and a new year ahead can offer space for contemplation. Time to hibernate a bit, stay inside, maybe make a fire and set the phone or computer aside, and sit with a good book. I asked myself too, what if, in January, I was more present in my daily life. Slow down and be open to letting the month unfold. Not rush to act, speak, or change my perspective with being in the world.
January felt like the right time to focus on this theme. For example, last week, my husband and I spontaneously invited some friends over for dinner, just one other couple, which is something that we typically haven't done. It was a simple meal reconnecting with friends we hadn't seen in some time. Present and not perfect. We tried not to overthink adding more couples or creating the perfect evening or experience.
Tara and I shared this theme at the January Women's Wisdom Circle at EASE Yoga, and I used these words for my yoga students to reflect on throughout this month. Several students commented this theme resonated with them too. How often we are so absorbed with getting it "right" or making it "perfect" that we miss the point or miss moments that are meaningful because we are engrossed in perfection.
In the January Women's Wisdom circle, we talked about what our relationship is with the word perfect or perfection. Several women shared that they have a love-hate relationship with perfection. Or that they work so hard to make life perfect for their families and look back at how they could have been more present and let some of the expectations go. Sitting down to enjoy just being with family. Truly present with them.
Try this idea of being present, with family members, co-workers, people you meet or friends. Giving them your attention making eye contact, instead of multitasking, checking your phone as they are telling you a story. Challenge yourself to mindfully enjoy a meal without the TV in the background, checking your email or social media.
We lose moments and opportunities when life becomes nothing but a blur. There is still time in January to ask yourself, can I be more present and what is my relationship with perfection?
The quieter you become, the more you are able to hear.” Rumi
Peace, Delia
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Expressing kind thoughts and words
Recently I was reminded how important and impactful it is to give and receive positive, heartfelt words. A compliment, feedback, sentiment, appreciation or feelings of joy. More often we keep our hearts tight but our grievances loose. Below are some unexpected comments I received recently after teaching my yoga classes. I was touched and received unexpected joy! Students could have carried these thoughts out the door with them, but instead they took the time to express their kind words.
~“You have such a calm voice. I love your energy and the way you teach your classes.”
~“I love how you always give us something to think about, take outside of class and into the world”.
~ “I always feel calm yet energized after your class.”
They reminded me how important it is that we share kind words with one another. Speaking, or writing a note letting someone know they are appreciated, loved, or how they inspire you.
Where, or who in your life do feel you can express some appreciation or positive feedback. Side effects might include smiles, warm hearts and a happier day! Go for it!
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I wrote these words after attending the
Fall 2018 “Together We Bake” Graduation event
https://new.togetherwebake.org/
Call it what you wish, but for me my soul is a vital organ. Like blood pumping to the heart. It needs circulation to keep its vitality. It is as important as feeding and exercising my body and mind.
My ‘soul’ practice is not random acts of “kindness” but “intentional” acts. Acts that make me feel comfortable and not so comfortable. I heard a yoga teacher once say, “put yourself in challenging situations and teach, that will help you grow as a teacher and person.“
I recently had the honor to be a small part of the women’s empowerment experience, teaching the benefits of yoga to the TWB women. In the brief time I shared yoga with these women, they fed “MY” soul, even though I was the “teacher”.
I knew I wouldn’t want to miss the morning of their graduation ceremony, knowing it would be an inspiring day. It was on my calendar weeks in advance. It would be good for the soul given all the despair and negativity we hear daily.
As I get older I feel my body and mind slow down a bit, though my soul is picking up the pace. After 15+ years practicing and teaching Yoga, it is a tool that reinforces the importance of spirituality and “soul-full” work. It goes hand and hand to live more intentionally, connected, and a more fulfilled life. More then ever, I believe the need to pay attention to the incredible resource of our “true nature”. That place within each of us that is inherent and deeply rooted in kindness and love. We need to believe it, trust it and SHARE it!
The heart has an inherent quality to love and be loved. It is one of the many things that connect us as humans.
These days there is too much focus on what doesn’t connect us. This idea that we have this “outer armor” we wear and not the inner inherent quality we are born with. There is a beating heart in each person. These women had many differences (color, race, religion, language, etc.), yet the commonality for love, respect, and to find and share their unique gifts with each other and the world was inspiring. Attending the empowerment graduation ceremony I could see it was a profound experience for them and for me as an observer!
At the end I passed Louise. I stopped, gave her my congratulations, she responded “I LOVE the yoga!” She continued expressing, while at the bus stop she uses her breath, even raising her arms above her head, helping her find calm and energy to her day. Another women shared as she spoke to the crowd, “It’s ‘people’ who lift each other up.”
I agree. Let’s reach out, soften your armor, and feed our souls.
2018
Soul Practice ~ Delia Campagna Sullivan
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Thank you to all who came to hear a little of my story as part of the Womens Voices October Event.
Click link for more photos from the events
https://deliaphoto.zenfolio.com/womensvoices2018
During the month of October I spoke about how I came to photography which has led to a part time business of 12 years. On display were two of my early photo projects (solo travel to Guatemala + Grandfathers Group Non-profit project) in the Mt. Vernon Presbyterian Church, Alexandria, Virginia as part of their October Women's Voices Series.
Remembering this beautiful wedding celebration this time last year ~April 2016
A beautiful wedding at The Inn at Little Washington, Washington, Virginia
So many images how to narrow them down? As I organize and edit the images to present to the newly married couple I was able to relive the witnessing of so many special moments. To photograph a special event, especially a wedding, is such an honor. For me it is one of my favorite parts of being a profesional photographer. Telling a story of an event that brings cherished family and friends together through photographs to be shared for years to come. Of course, the beautiful setting, glowing bride and groom along with guests in their "Sunday best" helps make it easier to create beautiful images. Most importantly though is being there to observe interactions of laughter and heartfelt conversation and capture these moments.
Seeing a mother smiling with joy as she watches the couple reciting their vows, a grandfather sharing a giggle with his granddaughter, or a happy groom smiling as his mother pins on his boutineer - these are the precious moments I love to capture.
As I continue to create images for my clients, whose children are heading of to college I am reminded of the special events that captured cherished memories, of birthdays, First Communion, family reunions and other special events images that will be keepsakes for years to come.
Ceremony garden
The Inn at Little Washington
Stunning dress + shoes
Fun with bubbles at the reception
Beautiful hand painted program for the guests
Head dining table overlooking "the field of dreams"
View from the ballroom
For the sake of our own health!
There are so many things that we have in common as human beings.
Remembering those positive things that connect us is just plain good for our health!
In my humble opinion, I would guess most of us have some kind of heightened emotions at this moment in time. Too many adjectives to list here but a few simple ones might include, excitement, anger, empowerment, fear, sadness, happiness, etc. I am not writing to judge your “emotions” but to suggest we all have emotions, yes? I’m sure at some point recently you have observed heightened emotions. How about the compassion to acknowledge is it a commonality in human beings and that affects our daily lives, our health, AND those around us?
Often we get so caught up in our own drama and emotions that we begin to actually create “dis-ease” in our bodies and can become disease. Many of us already have stressors, like long work hours, daily responsibilities that contribute to little sleep, little exercise and no time for inspiring human connection like (church, girlfriends, family time, couple time, just walking down the street without a mission to get somewhere).
In my yoga classes this month the theme is self-observation or self-study. To be aware and notice this idea of Think less and FEEL more! Using observation to become aware of your behavior, your interactions, and decisions, to determine what feels healthy and what does not.
Observations like how it feels when you are around certain people? Do they inspire you or tire you? How you react when plans change abruptly, noticing your morning routine, how you carry yourself as you walk? Very simple observations tell the story of who we are in those moments.
Notice and observe, no judgment, just inquiry. Then you will have more authentic information to create “re-SOUL-utions” or intentions as we say in yoga. This may allow us to disentangle ourselves from aspects of our life that don’t create “well-being”.
If you “feel” any of this resonates with you, I invite you to use Gentle + Restorative yoga to encourage the inquiry.
I would love to see you on the mat at one of my 75 minute weekly classes
at Radiance-Yoga Tuesdays 10:30am + EASE Yoga Monday, 9:30am
http://radiance-yoga.net/teacher/delia-sullivan/ and http://www.easeyogacafe.com/about-ease/our-team/
For the sake of your own health and those of others!
In wellness + peace,
Delia
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2016 September + October Fall Sessions
September + October evenings are a beautiful time for photo sessions.
September weeknights are available. September weekends are fully booked.
October weekends available please inquire.
Evening sessions are typically 1.5hrs before sunset and mornings 8am-11am.
(November is reserved for weather related make up sessions and order production)
Please inquire ~ [email protected] or 703.919.3749
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]]>A beautiful wedding at The Inn at Little Washington, Washington, Virginia
So many images how to narrow them down? As I organize and edit the images to present to the newly married couple I was able to relive the witnessing of so many special moments. To photograph a special event, especially a wedding, is such an honor. For me it is one of my favorite parts of being a profesional photographer. Telling a story of an event that brings cherished family and friends together through photographs to be shared for years to come. Of course, the beautiful setting, glowing bride and groom along with guests in their "Sunday best" helps make it easier to create beautiful images. Most importantly though is being there to observe interations of laughter and heartfelt conversation and capture these moments.
Seeing a mother smiling with joy as she watches the couple reciting their vows, a grandfather sharing a giggle with his granddaughter, or a happy groom smiling as his mother pins on his boutineer - these are the precious moments I love to capture.
As I continue to create images for my clients, whose children are heading of to college I am reminded of the special events that captured cherished memories, of birthdays, First Communion, family reunions and other special events images that will be keepsakes for years to come.
Ceremony garden
The Inn at Little Washington
Stunning dress + shoes
Fun with bubbles at the reception
Beautiful hand painted program for the guests
Head dining table overlooking "the field of dreams"
View from the ballroom
2016 September + October Fall Sessions
September + October evenings are a beautiful time for photo sessions.
September weeknights are available. September weekends are fully booked.
October weekends available please inquire.
Evening sessions are typically 1.5hrs before sunset and mornings 8am-11am.
(November is reserved for weather related make up sessions and order production)
Please inquire ~ [email protected] or 703.919.3749
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Kiskadee photo shoot Breast cancer awareness month follow up on my journey.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
As someone who is usually the the one taking the photos, it was a nice change to be in front of the camera. Especially when you are asked to model clothes from Kiskadee Boutique located in Alexandria, Virginia.
Honored to be included in The Alexandria Stylebook for a follow up article.....http://alexandriastylebook.com/15773-2/
October 2014 http://alexandriastylebook.com/awareness-enough-take-action/
October 2013 http://alexandriastylebook.com/street-style-delia/
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beach sunrise
Stillness + quiet…
Where the soul rises to the surface
Being quiet + still in the midst of a busy world is a reminder that there is so much more than just our small selves. Witnessing the sunrise and knowing it displays itself in a different formation EVERY single DAY, but equally as spectacular and magical.
We could all use a little stillness + quiet everyday! It takes ACTION to be still and quiet. You have to make the choice and make it a priority. To consciously set aside a time and place, to hit the pause button for your mind chatter, and really listen and observe.
It is a simple place in the midst of a busy world. Each of us can explore a get creative to find that place that works best, on a particular day and time. No time limit. It can be as little as two minutes or 20 minutes.
The sunrise this morning on the beach, just happened to be where I spent my stillness and quiet today. My yoga practice encourages the stillness in my chatty mind along with quiet movement with intention. Of course, I had to photograph the sunrise first!
Try not to grasp, or have expectations but take charge and make it happen. Step away from the computer, phone, IPAD, turn off the NEWS, the radio, and if need be, kindly ask others to respect your time to be quiet + still. Often just turning off the constant influx of information is enough. Better yet get outside find a shady spot sit on the grass, or park bench and let the birds serenade you! Mother Nature is an amazing teacher!
Delia Sullivan www.deliasullivanphoto.com August 30 2015
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Congratulations
2015 High School Seniors
High School Seniors are one of my favorites to photograph!
I love engaging about the bittersweet feelings of leaving high school and
the excitement of what awaits in the future.
Amazing young men + women that remind me why
I love photographing people!
Booking now for 2016 Senior Portraits
Summer + Fall
June-October 2015
Click here to view more samples http://deliaphoto.zenfolio.com/samplesssasportraits
* Inquire for information on prints, packages and CD of images
www.deliasullivanphoto.com
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I took a break from my photo business, as I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer in June 2013 and have focused on my journey as a "thriver". What I missed in these last 6 months, among other things was using my creative energy through my photo business. Now I am finished with surgeries, chemo treatment and feeling the creative energy bursting at the seams!
I have been inspired by all the amazing support during this journey....One gesture that was a BIG part of my healing process was the handwritten notes & cards that arrived on my doorstep or in my mailbox. Opening the mail each day and receiving beautiful cards with genuine sentiments was such a gift!
Do you smile when opening the mailbox and find a handwritten note?
Do you know family, friends, neighbors or acquaintances near and far, that might enjoy a card arriving in their mailbox?
Do you love giving, expressing gratitude + spreading the love?
As my new creative project I have been inspired to create note cards from images I have taken over the years, in my travels or, in and around my home town. In an age where email or text is a common way to interact, taking the time to send a note through the mail is an unexpected surprise for most!
So here is the challenge... To purchase my note cards then write and SEND 2-4 cards a month! For any occasion or "just because" is reason enough! I speak from experience that the gesture will bring a smile or happy tear to someones eye. So start spreading the LOVE and GRATITUDE!
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10 days/9 nights Lodging in lovely colonial style hotels including the Posada Santiago http://www.posadadesantiago.com
Airport transfers, and transportation to Lake Atitlan *does not include airfare -book your flight now for best rate
Healthy breakfast daily (fresh fruit, yogurt, tortillas, frijoles, huevos & fresh juices)
YOGA twice a day, most days (except on excursion days) including mediation, pranayama, sun salutations, partner workshop + yoga philosophy discussion
One on one time with the instructor to create a home practice that best fits your lifestyle
Free time for taking your camera to create great images, relaxing by the pool, journaling or reading
Cultural experiences include:
We'll visit indigenous families, small town markets and experience a Mayan healing ceremony. Highlight of this workshop is Sunday, when you'll see 'alfombras' - carpets made of sawdust, flowers, fruits, vegetables and pine needles that families design and create in the streets in front of their homes. They do this each Sunday during Lent. We will make our own "alfombra" and witness the amazing lenten processions thru the streets of Antigua during our stay. Don't forget your camera!
The sites and sounds of Guatemala will inspire you to create new experiences. Learn to use YOGA as a tool to create more health and healing. Join us and you will find yourself nurtured, renewed and inspired! Allow yourself to reignite your soul!
Not included but optional activities: Spanish language classes, learning about weaving, volunteer opportunity at local school, salsa dancing, mayan museum, massage and lots more!
More info on Delia http://deliaphoto.zenfolio.com/yoga
CONTACT: Liza [email protected] for more details or to reserve your spot
Enjoy the slideshow below. These are a collection of photos taken by Delia during her past trips to Guatemala while participating in Photography Workshops thru Art Workshops of Guatemala (www.artguat.org)
Two local family + children photographers
are teaming up for ONE day of
"MINI Portrait Sessions"
30 minutes per sitting
Alexandria garden setting
Monday, May 6th 2013
8:00am to 6:30pm
1-2 children ($15 per additional person)
If mom gets in a picture with the kids we will gift
you with a 4x6 print for a keepsake.
$200 includes sitting fee + online proof album and your choice of
3 digital images or (3) 5x7 edited & retouched images. Fee is due at the time of reservation.
GREAT MOTHER'S DAY GIFT!
Contact: Delia or Amy to schedule your sitting
[email protected] [email protected]
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HAPPY EARTH DAY 4.22.2013
Today seems like a great day to share photos from a recent trip to one of the one of the most beautiful places on EARTH, Virgin Gorda in the BVI's.
Follow the link for more photos from this beautiful + natural place.
http://deliaphoto.zenfolio.com/deliasphotobviwm
Okay, seems having a blog is the "thing to do" but not sure I am up to the challenge! Keeping up with photo work, teaching yoga and fully participating in my family life...that is challenge enough. So we'll see....check back:)]]>