Focaccia Pizza

I'm secretly addicted to watching cupcake wars. I drool over the different variations that these talented cupcake artists come up with. I'm slightly jealous of those judges that get to try them all!!

I love cupcakes and I love bakeries.

Last week, while in Tennessee, I went to my favorite bakery. I stocked up on pumpkin chocolate chip bread, whole wheat bread and my favorite focaccia bread. I froze the focaccia and have been pulling it out when I need to use it.

Tonight, I decided to make some focaccia pizza out of it. I also made a homemade pizza sauce.

Yummy. :-)

On the other side - Augusta, GA portrait photographer

Sometimes it is good to get on the other side of the camera.

I asked my mom to take some photos of me for my website.

I just wasn't feeling pretty today for many reasons. My hair was messy, my makeup wasn't good and my skin was pale. I had a sty in my eye and a zit on my lip. It made me realize that it's not easy to be in front of the camera. I don't shoot models anymore and I need to remember that when I'm doing a session. I try to make every client feel beautiful and at ease in front of the camera. But it's nerve-racking having your picture taken, especially when there are people standing around.

I definitely sat there on a bench at the park crying because I just didn't feel pretty. I may be a little overly emotional right now, but I now understand how my clients feel when they are in front of my camera. Completely vulnerable.

Ashley

Augusta GA maternity photography

I'm in Nashville, Tennessee right now visiting with my family.

This past Saturday I did a maternity session in Franklin (my hometown). Here's a peek at some photos.

 ~Ashley DeYoung
http://www.ashleydeyoung.com

Engagement & Couple's Portrait photography

I had a couple's portrait session in North Augusta, SC.

Ashley DeYoung
Photographer in Augusta, Georgia
http://www.ashleydeyoung.com

Child Portrait session - Aiken SC & Augusta GA photographer

I had a fun photography session in Aiken, South Carolina today. Here's a sneak peak. I'm still working on the photos, but I thought this little girl was adorable!

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Ashley DeYoung
http://www.ashleydeyoung.com

I'm having issues with my facebook comments, so the blog will be down some of today to fix it.

My apologies!
Ash

Vanilla Bean Extract

Back in December, I ordered a bunch of vanilla beans on Amazon. I've been meaning to make some homemade vanilla extract from them. I've seen several people do this and decided it was time to do it myself!

I sliced the vanilla beans down the center. Then I put a handful of the vanilla beans in the jar and added vodka. I read online that you are supposed to shake it weekly and store in a dark place. It should be ready in a few months!

I'm excited to use it. :-)

I have quite the busy week ahead of me! I have a child portrait session in South Carolina on Monday. Then I have a couple's session this week in North Augusta, South Carolina. Friday, I head to Nashville, Tennessee for a week to do a maternity session and child portrait session.

My perspective on life has been different lately. I'm completely content with everything. I do still wish my husband was home more. However, I can't complain. I have one amazing life. A life that God has given me and I hope to honor him with everything I do.

I may have moved to Georgia kicking and screaming, but I will say it was the best thing for me spiritually, mentally and emotionally. I have learned to be fully dependent on God and myself. I no longer desire the materialistic things that I was so consumed with in the area I grew up. Fancy cars and huge houses are meaningless. Brand name clothes and expensive handbags do not bring me joy. Pursuing my dreams, honoring God and being a good wife bring me joy.

Even though there will still be bumps in the road...I'm ready to take them head on. I'm ready to face the challenges with joy in my heart and a smile on my face. Life is beautiful and I don't want to waste it away with selfish desires.

Ashley DeYoung
Photographer in Augusta, Georgia