Newborn: Jacquelyn Ryleigh Rogers

Jacquelyn Ryleigh Rogers was welcomed to the world on March 4, 2015 and is so unbelievably loved by this beautiful family. Tripp is one happy little man and who is eager to play his new role as the big brother of the house. Aunt Alex's nurturing spirit filled the room with such grace and joy. 

Eve and Larry, thank you so much for allowing me to document these very special times. I am forever grateful.

Barrett Thrasher

Everyone, meet Barrett..my yoga teacher and dear friend of mine. She is truly an inspiring and strong woman.

 

"As a life long student of alignment, I recognized an early age that a well organized lifestyle gives way for creativity to take hold, allowing the body and mind to align with something bigger.  After an intense knee injury I was introduced to yoga by my friend and tattoo artist, Kurt Fagerland.  After one class I found a passion and love that I never knew existed; finding union between the body and the mind. Yoga is a union between all aspects of the self: all our 'bodies' and 'centers'.  Each 'limb' can deliver hints of union.  If you consider the octopus, the tentacles on their own are not the octopus. The same way it is when the 8 limbs are combined - working together they become something greater than the sum of their parts.  They become Yoga.  They become Union.   

Kurt tattooed a gorgeous octopus on my back, as constant reminder for me to stay connected to my heart, present in the moment and to never lose sight of my path." -Barrett

 

I was always intrigued to do yoga, but was always scared that my "bad" leg or wrist would get in the way of my practice. I went to one of Barrett's classes and she asked me if I had any injuries or things she had to be careful with. I told her that I had a "Bad" leg and wrist and she instantly told me its not bad...just a "challenge". Those words gave me a different perspective of my "flaws". She instantly  gave me hope that I could do yoga. That first class was hard, something I never experienced...I was sore the next three days. But I also felt grounded, more connected to my mind and body. I was hooked from that day on. Barrett pushed me. She gave me the courage to try new poses, poses that I never thought I would ever be able to do. I found myself doing crow and handstands in my house, at the park, on vacation. I showed my husband everyday what I learned in class. Not only did yoga help with my body, but my mood changes.  I felt so alive, rejuvenated, and at peace every time I left Barrett's classes. 

 

The care and support that Barrett gives all of her students is really inspiring. She not only shows that she cares during class, but she also outside of class. When I told her I was getting married, she took the time to give me a routine to do the morning of my wedding. I am so grateful for her presence in my life.