Cary and I met almost five years ago. I had a lens for sale on Craigslist, and she bought it from me. She walked into my house with her two wee kids and a big smile (probably wearing a cute pair of boots, because that’s how she rolls!) and I knew we were going to be fast friends. I had just moved to Hayden, and the beginning of a sweet new friendship with a native Idaho gal felt like a gift.

Over the years I’ve been so inspired by Cary. She is a true pioneer soul and does it all: photography, sewing, crafting, building, logging, driving a skidder, restoring old vehicles, working antique shows, riding horses, remodeling vintage campers… and finding the best deals on Frye boots! And yet she always finds time to text me for a quick coffee date or movie night at the Garland. She’s laid-back but up for anything, and I so appreciate that about her! And let me tell you, every farm-raised city-dwelling girl with an animal-loving daughter should be as lucky as us to have a Cary in their lives. We look forward to heading out to her little farmhouse on the prairie to see brand new puppies and kitties, chickens, and a recently added pony & horse. I know Joanna would trade homes in a heartbeat!

It was Cary’s birthday last month, and I headed out to get some photos of her with her most recent project, a newly restored 1959 Triumph TR10. Talk about a ridiculously adorable car! It’s so small that I was able to push it out of the garage singlehandedly, and then later out of a ditch with Cary’s help – which was almost impossible to do because we were both laughing so hard. Such fun! (Oh, and yes – Cary did the most of the restoration herself, including reupholstering the seats. Amazing!)

Baby Kate – who is not really a baby anymore, but will forever be known to my kids as such – came along and I love the way her big personality shines through in every frame. =)