Figuring it’s only appropriate, I sit here and write with a glass of Argentinean wine and a small brick of German chocolate.  Wine, because I’m having chocolate (the Argentinean piece really has no significance other than it’s delish), and chocolate because it’s German.  German, because, well, these portraits were made in Germany.

What a stark reality it is to be home and shooting at Garden of the Gods again, when Germany, and Europe, as it always does, felt so comfortable.  My first week back from Europe left me feeling numb, and quite honestly, homesick.  Sure I missed my family, my man, and my crazy cat, but being stuck in the familiar didn’t feel good.  I love the newness that comes with travel and the exploration and the discomfort.  As Robert Louis Stevenson said, “I travel not to go anywhere, but to go.  I travel for travel’s sake.  The great affair is to move.”

After a week and a half of moving, of exploration through Greece and Austria, I experienced a whole new feeling of refreshment, affirmation, excitement, and contentment that came not only from travel, but it’s combination with creation.  That feeling came from making these portraits of my dear clients-turned-friends, James and Alicia.

About to celebrate their four year anniversary, on April 10th, James and Alicia’s love has never been stronger.  Their chemistry and confidence in one another, in God, will leap off your screen, as it did mine.  These two are some of the most hospitable and loving couples I’ve ever met.  What a true blessing to reignite my little creative insides with these two.

J+A, I can’t thank you enough for being you and taking such good care of Meghan and I.  Keep your eyes peeled on the snail mail. :-) In the meantime, I hope you enjoy these.

With love and joy,
René