We used to go a few times a year, when Isabel was too little to even KNOW we were going anywhere at all. We got our last season pass when Ryan was about 3 years old, and Isabel was 6. Neither of them remembered anything about Magic Kingdom. How was it easier to go when... Read More →

Here’s another snippet of our everyday life. I shot these the same day as these: http://mariloujaen.com/blog/2013/05/23/everyday-life-1/. I realized the kids have both gotten new bikes since I last photographed them biking. Plus, Ryan wanted to ride bike. Win-win. There was some biking. Some van climbing. And more biking. The kids usually bike on our street... Read More →

I met Kimberly through Stacey’s sister, Susan (You remember Stacey). So, I knew she was good people. And I was so honored to photograph her son’s baptism. It is such a special moment in a little person’s life – when family comes together to support all that he is and will become. And Alexander’s family... Read More →

I am launching my photography business this month. I’m pretty excited about it. For those of you who have asked – or have wondered – no, I’m not quitting my day job. But I dream big and have a huge vision for my future. And this is step one. Mini-shoots are 15-minute portrait sessions. I... Read More →

This was the third weekend in a row where Ryan had a birthday party to attend. Usually the social events fall under the ‘Isabel’ category. You won’t see Ryan complaining, though. Then again, who would complain about glow-in-the-dark soccer? Ryan had a blast. Isabel had a blast. (She’s screaming on the inside.) ALL the kids... Read More →

Almost 4 years ago, I dragged the kids to an animal rescue center up in North Miami. It was about a 45 minute drive, but they had posted on craigslist that they had golden-labrador retriever mix puppies. And I wanted one. {Mind you, that I had NEVER had a dog and knew NOTHING about dogs.... Read More →

I love it when… I walk into the living room and find my kids playing together. Even though they had to shove clutter out of their way to do so. Especially when what they are playing is something I’ve tried to get them to play countless times. Especially when they are doing it because they... Read More →

I walked by the bathroom Monday morning to find Ryan standing on the toilet, head in the sink… I started laughing (of course). “What?!” “Nothing. I just wish I had my camera right now.” “You can go get it.” “REALLY?! Okay, don’t move.”       Read More →

While waiting for Tropical Storm Isaac, we didn’t put up shutters or bring anything inside, off the patio. Nope. On Saturday morning, I went to kickboxing with my friend, Lisa. Rene spent the day moving his boat. The kids and I started our Harry Potter marathon – Half Blood Prince (the sixth movie) is just... Read More →