In honor of my lifted spirits, I am going to do an installment of "things that make my heart smile." I am no expert in any means, but these are just items, thoughts or places that make me happy and make my world a better place.

(left to right, up and down)
1. Daily Ann-tidote - this witty blog not only makes me smile because it is written by my super fun and bubbly cousin, but because she always has the greatest tips! Whenever I need to buy a present or organize my closet, I look to my cousin!
2. Miike Snow - My super smart cousin recommended Miike Snow to me and I have never looked back. The first song, Animal, always has me bouncing in my seat. Anything to make my hours in front of the computer a little more enjoyable, right?
3. mang'Oh - Who knew this was a family post? I can't help it though, they always make me smile! This is for all the New Yorkers out there or anyone that frequents New York City. My sisters have an AMAZING yoga studio in midtown. My talented sister Erica received her yoga certification from the prestigious Laughing Lotus in New York and has since been changing lives all over New York. I swear to you. When I lived in New York, I used to follow her around to all the different studios she taught at like a puppy dog to take her classes. Her melodic voice and challenging moves will help change your body and mind. Gosh, I sound like an ad...but I'm serious! My savvy sister Cindy runs the business side and together they make such a great team!
4. Cape Town, South Africa - I am counting down. 40 more days until I turn off my computer and run away to South Africa. Chris and I are not looking back for twelve days while we experience a safari in Kruger Park, the beaches in Camps Bay and all the wine we can drink. We are PUMPED. This is a picture I took when I was there with my sister last year, sigh...
5. My New Bag - I don't spend a lot of money on my clothes or accessories, I am much more easily enticed by a new lens or lighting accessory. But there has been something I have been thinking about for awhile. I need a STAPLE bag. One that I would use for forever and would go with the vast majority of my closet. So, here it is! I bought the Marc by Marc Jacobs Large Salma Satchel (on sale, of course!!). Heaven!
6. Berripop - Last, but not least. The ultimate addiction lately is frozen yogurt. Not the ice cream kind, but the actual frozen yogurt kind. It is SOOOO good and I get to put as much fruit on top as I want.
Wanna comment with things that make your heart smile? :)
Funny story - I actually grew up on the same street as Daniell, we lovingly talked about how we are from the "ghetto" and that being from the 'lief gives us a harder, cooler edge in life. LOL. I try at least.
All I can say, is that I love looking at these images. Not just because they are seriously THE most gorgeous mom and daughter ever, but because their exuberant spirits shine through in their smiles.

We then ventured off to the park in front of the Menil Collection museum. There was a swing that Kaily just couldn't stay away from...

I LOVE the next three images. The first one CRACK me up! She is so adorable it hurts.

This is my favorite series of images...are they not just gorgeous together?

This one is my ultimate favorite. Something about the casual happiness...just makes me happy too.

Daniell and Kaily - Thank you for spending your Saturday with me!!
Fantastic! We have a cute little cupcake shop here and I've been DYING to do some photos there for a client. Now I think I will have to get my husband to do some of my daughter and I instead!
I love the honesty and innocence you've captured in these images!
Julie those are some of the sweetes things anyone has said about us and you are truly gifted. I will treasure these photos forever.
(10.06.09)UGH so amazing again!!! i love the swing with the word LOVE on it. So sweet!!! and the cupcakes were a fantastic idea! :D
(10.06.09)julie these are sooo great! i love them! you have to show me where that "love" swing is!
(10.07.09)wow. i love these pictures. you definitely have some talent Julie! Haven't seen you or Daniell in so long. Great to see that everyone is doing well. It's funny because I tell people up here in Seattle that I grew up in the hardcore 'ghetto' too, but no one believes me.
(10.18.09)

There were some of the CUTEST kids at the reception that I have ever seen and they LOVED the camera. Here are a couple of the shots.

Stephen & Amy - Thank you for inviting me to be a part of your day! Congratulations on your new life together!
Great pictures!!
(10.04.09)Love the pics Julie! This makes me excited to see the rest of the photos. Amy and I are so happy & honored to have you apart of our big day!
(10.04.09)
**Pictures taken by my fabulous friend, Jorge Ungo.

YAYUH I LOVE IT! so cute :)
(09.29.09)
We had fun roaming around the Villagio together...and we found some KILLER bikes.

See? This was the smile I was talking about - love!

Then, we hurried over to a park in their neighborhood and a special furry friend joined us as well - LOVE that his tongue is sticking out! He is so excited to be included!

Thank you guys for spending the day with me! Can't wait till your wedding in December!
Great session, Julie! I love the scene from the Southeast Asian wedding in your flash banner!
(09.26.09)

love you cuz :D
(10.12.09)