on the agenda | Natalie Norton Photography on the agenda

Here I come!

click here to open post Oct 06, 2011 | posted in on the agenda, Personal | 6 comments

Here I come!

Want to book a session or a one on one photography/business consultation while I’m in town?! Email me at natalienorton{at}gmail{dot}com to reserve your space! Just in time for holiday cards! Woot woot!

I have availability Saturday, October 15th and Monday, October 17th!

I’m DYING to see the ocean. Even if it’s colder, dirtier, and basically just miserable compared to the one I’m used to. ;) All joking aside, I’m in love with California beaches. They feel nostalgic and magical and make me feel at home. Cannot wait! PLUS we’ll get to see favorite family and friends and spend quality time with people we adore. I.am.so.excited.I.might.EXPLODE!

xo!

PS. I was sloppy and negligent and pinched a nerve at CrossFit today. I ended up nearly immobile! Thank Heaven for new BFF Jenni, her wonderful husband Sterling . . . aaaaaaaaaand the strange Mormon chiropractor . . . with an office in a strip center adjacent to Safeway. We listened to Jack Johnson while he bashed on vaccinations (and the entire state of Hawaii), put me through the most miserable pain of my life. . . aaaaaaaaaand completely cured my excruciating pain + restored me to nearly 100%! What.a.day!

6 comments | add comment

Aundrea: Your new BFF Jenni is my cousin...she's the one that turned me on to your blog....our family connection is through the Cardon line, so I think it's cool that you have a son named Cardon. Tell her I said hi:) October 7, 2011 4:46 am
Natalie: Aundrea, I'm a Cardon!!! We're related! Bam! October 7, 2011 6:45 am
Lindsay R: Have a wonderful time in San Diego! The beach that looks closest to Hawaii is WindnSea beach in La Jolla-- it's my favorite. Even the sand is a little larger grain like Hawaii's. and it's great for pictures. and your last post was awesome. haha swinging tampons around. only a little boy would think of that. Lindsay October 8, 2011 6:22 am
Amie W: Giddy, just thinking about you being here! I hope you are coming with your whole crew!? October 8, 2011 9:30 am
natalie: Amie, Yup! The whole fam. Well. . . I hope. Richie is still up in the air with other commitments, so we'll see about him. At the very least, the boys and I will be there. I saw your email. I'll get back to you tomorrow! xoxo! October 9, 2011 5:59 pm
Aundrea: So cool! Sorry I didn't check back until now:) My mom, who is the Cardon lives down in Queen Creek now...we should have a little cousin reunion/meet each other next time I get to visit:) October 13, 2011 9:01 am

Gunstock Half Marathon and 5k + if I can do it, ANYONE can.

click here to open post Sep 13, 2011 | posted in on the agenda, Personal | 43 comments

I know. Seriously, right?! Who posts these kinds of images of themselves?

This is me, last year, running the Gunstock Half Marathon. It’s amazing to think that my journey toward running began almost exactly one year ago as I trained for this very race. “Life changing” seems trite. Running has revolutionized my entire existence. And no, that’s no exaggeration. It’s something I NEVER thought I could EVER do. NO CHANCE in H-E-double-hockey-sticks. And yet. . . I did it. I did. And I haven’t stopped since.

It was really hard, but running taught me that I can in fact do things that are really hard, and they pay off. Ten fold (times a million).

Now, it’s difficult to imagine the pre running me. How did I combat stress? How did I manage anxiety? Nobody knows. The best answer would probably be, “not very well.”

I’ve been meaning to write a post on HOW exactly I went from couch to Gunstock, because it’s probably one of the very most frequently asked questions I get from readers. I was not a runner. At all. And now, I am, completely. And it’s nothing short of a miracle. If y’all are still interested in hearing my system, because you can count on the fact that survival dictated I develop one, let me know. I’d LOVE to write that up for you! I’m passionate about helping others see that they can truly RUN, because heck, if I can do it, ANYONE CAN. Any.one.on.Earth. For real.

The Gunstock Half Marathon and 5k is just around the corner (Oct. 15)! Register online, here. NOTHING you’ve experienced can prepare you for how good you’ll feel when you cross that finish line. (Even if you finish third from last, like me.) xx, N

43 comments | add comment

Jenni: I'd LOVE to hear your system! September 13, 2011 6:41 pm
Heather Capener: Natty, I want to know your system! My running/exercise had dwindled and disappeared since nursing school started and then pregnancy and I haven't been able to get back on the horse. I need some motivation/inspiration! September 13, 2011 6:42 pm
Kelly: I seriously NEED to know how to do this. For health, for stress, for me. September 13, 2011 6:45 pm
Aussie Sarah: Please,please do share your journey. I have started mine and am up to running six kms but t is still so hard! I would love to hear how you did it! September 13, 2011 6:54 pm
Marsha B: I beg you Natalie... please share your secrets/system/wisdom! Your amazing and truly inspirational. I've been quite the couch potato and need a little motivation! x September 13, 2011 6:54 pm
Stephanie J: So awesome! I am training for my first half marathon(Oct.22) and would love any advice:) It is a goal i have always wanted to accomplish! September 13, 2011 6:58 pm
Chelsea: Hi Natalie! I've been following your blog for s couple months and nothing inspires me like you do. So, PLEASE share your system since I am in desperate need of some motivation as I have just given birth and have set the goal of running a 5K on Thanksgiving day. Thanks!! September 13, 2011 7:05 pm
Carissa: I'd love to hear it! as someone who is not into running but wants to be, I need all the help I can get! September 13, 2011 7:16 pm
stephanie joy: NATALIE. I love you with all my heart for posting this priceless photo of yourself on your widely read blog. That is all. I love you. Ok, off to actually read the blog post now... I just honestly couldn't NOT comment on that photo. HAHAHAHAHA! Love it so much. OkBYE. September 13, 2011 8:21 pm
Bridget: Wow! That is quite the photo. I think I could use a good run right now. September 13, 2011 9:24 pm
Dan K: Please let me know how you did it, I have had several failed attempts where I run once and say 'Never again' I am not built for running! x September 13, 2011 10:01 pm
Paul Jones: As someone who lost 80lbs and started running 3 years ago, I'm with you - how on *earth* did I manage without it? Now I grab four or five 5k lunch time runs in weekly, and it's the only way I don't go postal in the office mid afternoon! Next up, Tough Mudder in VT! September 14, 2011 12:05 am
Amber: I would love to know how you did it, I was just googling couch to half marathon!! September 14, 2011 1:55 am
Kari: I would love to know how! I have started doing some 5k's and would love to decrease my time/increase my distance. No better way to learn than from you! September 14, 2011 3:30 am
Melody: Third from last is still finishing which is sort of huge. Definitely write about how you've done it because I would love to be a runner too but you know, I hate running. September 14, 2011 4:04 am
natalie: I would be SHOCKED Melody, If your hatred for running exceeded mine. Seriously. September 14, 2011 4:22 am
natalie: Paul! I LOVE this! Awesome! I looked into doing the Tough Mudder! I don't remember what the conflict was, but I wasn't able to. You'll have to let me know how it goes! And seriously, congratulations to you. 80lbs is something to be proud of. . . but I bet the best part is just how good it feels to be so active, right?! September 14, 2011 4:24 am
natalie: Dan, I was the QUEEN of thinking I wasn't built for it. Seriously. I was shocked when it actually started to become FUN and EASY! It was remarkable. September 14, 2011 4:25 am
natalie: Bridget, I know. So sexy, right? September 14, 2011 4:25 am
natalie: Stephanie Joy, Y'welcome. :) September 14, 2011 4:25 am
Shelly: So, the consensus is, you need to write a blog post with the methods to your madness. Thanks! September 14, 2011 4:27 am
natalie: PEOPLE! I'm seriously so excited to write this post! But here's the thing, I do NOT claim to be an expert on anything other than becoming a runner. Does that make sense? I'm not an expert on RUNNING itself. . . just getting someone who thinks there's no way in heck they CAN run, to get off the couch and prove themselves wrong. Got it? I've said my piece, amen. September 14, 2011 4:28 am
Shelly: That's exactly what we want:) September 14, 2011 4:48 am
marie rose: That pictures make me love you all the more. that picture is awesome. I know EXACTLY how you feel. I think I have a similar picture at the end of my very 1st marathon. You are awesome Natalie! September 14, 2011 5:31 am
Amanda: I hate running. It's the most miserable thing in the world, but I know that it's a necessary habit for good health. Let's hear your system. September 14, 2011 5:39 am
Mickisha: Share the love! I need some stress reduction and definitely would not consider myself a runner. So share the secrets please! September 14, 2011 5:47 am
Liz Rotz: I ran two races a few years ago when my husband and I lived in Chicago. He finished light years ahead of me, BUT I finished. Good thing that was my only goal! Regardless I would LOVE to get back to running and doing it better, so I would love to hear your program and how you did it! September 14, 2011 6:12 am
Kendall: YESSS PLEASE!!! I'd love to hear how you got motivated and stayed motivated with running!! My anxiety (post-second babe) has been off the charts and I need to find a great (natural) way to help tame that wild anxiety beast!! Would LOVE to hear how-you-got-started-with-running story!! September 14, 2011 7:28 am
Jenn a: I'd love to hear how you keep running! I always seem to get in a groove and then something knocks me out and it gets harder and harder each time to get back at it. September 14, 2011 10:47 am
crystal: I sure do need to know how to start too! I don't handle stresses of life good lately, and their is a lot, and I take it out on the wrong people. ;-( I need to take it out on the road! WRITE already! ;-) September 14, 2011 1:08 pm
Bethany Aleshire: I'd absolutely L.O.V.E. If you wrote up your system!!! Last school year my teacher gave us the Colorado police fitness assessment and we had to run one mile. I almost died! Even though I was just 2 points shy of being a Colorado police officer :) I have been thinking of taking up something to get into shape...running would be perfect (inexpensive and wears out my dog :D). Thanks Natalie for being so helpful and caring...and transparent!!! September 14, 2011 1:11 pm
kelli eudis: I'm totally interested in hearing your system! I just signed up for the ragnar next summer and I have never been a runner either...athletic, but running has never been my thing! Any advice would be awesome! I'm terrified for it. September 14, 2011 1:14 pm
Jessica: I would LOVE to know how you became a runner! I used to run in high school and college, but I've since had four pregnancies and haven't been able to get past the 'I want to die this is so miserable' part. Please share. September 14, 2011 4:52 pm
amy: Please share! I'm debating running a half early next year and could use ANY tips! September 15, 2011 3:58 am
Lara: I'm so excited for you and praying for you as you train! I love you Nat! September 15, 2011 4:51 am
Heather Cole: Nat - I would LOVE to hear how you ran this. My husband is in LOVE with racing and I SOOO want to do it but I'm NOT A RUNNER!! AT ALL. I feel like, if you weren't and you are now...perhaps there is hope? September 15, 2011 9:46 am
Kim: I think it's clear! We NEED to know! I've started training to run I can't tell you how many times. Ran (with a little walking) my first 5K last fall and haven't done a decent job in continuing. I never felt like more than just a beginner. Tell us you secrets! September 15, 2011 3:57 pm
Amie W: Write it up! I need the miracle. I've come so far, yet managing the stress of life eludes me way more often that it doesn't these days! I LOVE YOUR GUTS! September 15, 2011 5:06 pm
Heather Ashby: Oh!! I am dying to know bc I am totally the same. I cannot imagine becoming a runner. But I wish I could run bc really I think it's the only thing that will whip me into shape. September 15, 2011 7:43 pm
Cicily: I would love to know how you did it. I am not a runner and I've convinced myself I never will be. What can you tell me :) September 16, 2011 7:39 am
Krystal: I'd LOVE to know how you did i too! September 17, 2011 6:43 am
Calm. | Natalie Norton Photography Calm. | Blog: [...] all know I love to run (post coming soon, cross my heart and hope I never, ever die). But the question that bears answering is this, WHY do [...] September 19, 2011 10:58 am
Paul Jones: @Natalie - I've ran a slew of 5k adventure races this year and last, but nothing like TM - it's next May, I need to get another 20lbs. Biggest reason to lose weight though - I can keep up with my son now. Thats worth every mile, every over training injury, every funny look as I left my office for a run and got funny looks ("Look at the fat man run!"). So worth it. September 19, 2011 3:13 pm

click here to open post Jul 18, 2011 | posted in on the agenda, Personal | 3 comments

We’re off to California tomorrow morning to meet with Joan Klein (and to see our favorite cousins . . . other than Cole x2 and Ireland, of course). Joan has been consulting us as we navigate this journey with Cardon, and I can’t explain what a gift she has been thus far. We can’t wait to meet her in person in just a couple of days!

General update:

we’re adjusting little by little to this new life. . . both to life here in AZ and to the new reality that is our life navigating Sensory Processing Disorder. We all feel a little like Alice, free falling further and further down the rabbit hole. Ultimately however, we KNOW we’ve made the right decision for our family. So on we’ll fall, trusting that someone is standing at the bottom, ready to soften our landing. . . or at the very least, throw us a crazy cool tea party.

xx! N

PS- To my BEAUTIFUL clients who are waiting on images,

THANK YOU so much for your patience while we’ve made this transition. I haven’t heard a peep from any of you. You are so amazing. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again and again and again, I HAVE THE BEST CLIENTS, EVER! I’m working as fast as I can, between unpacking, shopping for furniture, Neuropsych evaluations, and childhood meltdowns over having zero friends. . . Your beautiful images are on their way soon. Scouts honor!

3 comments | add comment

Diane Pientsch: I have been following your family's journey for awhile - I am so impressed at the dedication you have to helping your son - it will pay off in spades when he is older! Good luck in your new ventures - keeping you and all your fam in my prayers! July 18, 2011 6:06 pm
Rach: Hey friend, I hope your trip goes well. We love you and are thinking of you! July 20, 2011 11:14 am
Jessica in Canada: Hi! I've been a follower for some time. Just wishing you all the best in all of the evaluations and treatment. It can be wearing. Oh so wearing. July 25, 2011 9:20 pm

Aloha ‘Oe Portrait Special: 2 weeks only!!!

click here to open post Jun 02, 2011 | posted in on the agenda | 7 comments

sold out sold out sold out sold out

I’m still here in Hawaii for the next 2.5 weeks, then it’s a big fat aloha ‘oe to the land that I love. As a parting gift to my friends and followers here in Hawaii, I’m offering a pretty little discount on all portrait sessions booked within the next TWO WEEKS ONLY. My schedule is surprisingly less crunched than I anticipated it would be during crunch time (go me!), so I’m opening a few dates for discounted portrait sittings before I leave! If you are interested, please email me at aloha{at}natalienortonblog{dot}com for detailed pricing and session information.

Book your session as soon as possible. This already limited number of openings will fill very fast! Limited time slots available through June 17th.

Just so we’re clear, it is highly unlikely that an opportunity like this will be available ever again. I don’t have any plans of hosting anything similar to this in the foreseeable future. So if you are interested, definitely jump fast!

DON’T STRESS (aka FAQ):

We don’t have anything to wear!?

Don’t sweat it! I have a genetic aversion to matchy matchers anyway. I can help you select something that will be just perfect from the wardrobe y’all already have in y’all’s closets. Scouts honor.

I’ve been putting pictures off because I want to lose this last 20lbs!

Give me a break! You are beautiful! AND guess what?! Your family is changing every.single.day you spend waiting. You can’t keep putting this off in anticipation of the allusive “perfect time.” The exactly perfect time simply isn’t coming. Relax. I’ll make you look absolutely radiant (as you already do, I am certain).

What do you require to save our date?!

A 50% (non refundable) retainer is required to reserve your date. The remaining balance is due at the beginning of your session.

What will be included on the disk?

The disk will include all the color corrected proofs from your session in full resolution + a copyright release to print them at the lab of your choice + a very short list of local lab recommendations.

When will we get the pictures?

Well, I’m glad you asked. Since I am in fact in the process of moving, and my sweet assistant Janie is visiting family on the mainland throughout the month of June, you will receive your images between the first and second weeks of July. That’s just about standard turn around time for most photographers, just fyi. Though we normally boast appx 5-7 day turn around. Bam! Circumstances are such that we appreciate your patience while we get these images processed and off to you.

Other questions?

Email aloha{at}natalienortonblog{dot}com and we will get back to you just as fast as you can say “aloha ‘oe.”

I love you! I cannot wait to photograph your pretty little selves!

xx!

7 comments | add comment

Heather: If I book, a session, will you fly my family and me out for it? It's worth asking, right? June 2, 2011 9:02 am
amanda: WHY! WHY DID I NOT GO TO HAWAII A MONTH LATER? shucks. oh well, maybe next time!! :) June 2, 2011 9:48 am
Lizzie: Gah!!! Hawaii why do you have to be where you are? As part of the deal are you moving the island closer??? :) Sad, but so happy for those who'll get this amazing deal! June 2, 2011 10:53 am
natalie: Heather, how about this: You fly out here and I'll photograph you for free in exchange! June 2, 2011 12:20 pm
mer: ahhh! i'm going crazy here - hahaha! ;) i will be in hawaii, but on another island starting on the 16th. so very tempting, but i will have to plan to visit you at your new home. good luck with all of your sessions - they will be amazing - love you! June 2, 2011 2:24 pm
Alysha Smith: I am so excited for our shoot! It will be better when we re-schedule. Let's pray for good weather for the next two.five weeks! :) Can't wait!!! June 3, 2011 6:49 pm
Angela Salazar: Can you bring this special with you to Phoenix?? There I can be! =) And it's a great place by the way! And I'm sure you will make it all the better! June 10, 2011 10:52 am

Art for Education: Get your kids involved in a good cause!

click here to open post Jun 01, 2011 | posted in on the agenda | 1 comment

Art for Education from trisha Zemp on Vimeo.

I LOVE THIS!

Take the 1 minute and 9 seconds required to watch this video. I think what this organization is doing is so unbelievably refreshing and oh so fun! I can hardly contain myself! We donated alllllll of our (wonderful and treasured) art supplies (from our wonderful Aunt Jenny) to a local homeless shelter last weekend in preparation for our move, but I’m seriously so excited about this, that I’m geniunely considering going out and buying new ones, simply so we can be involved in such a great project! What a COOL way for your kids to a) have the opportunity to actively contribute to a GREAT cause and b) realize the incredible importance of education.

xx! N

1 comment | add comment

Camille: Wow, this is so awesome! I am totally donating, purchasing, and spreading the word! Thanks for sharing. June 1, 2011 12:08 pm