What’s This Year’s Christmas Theme Y’all?! Let’s Talk Holiday Decor Magic?!

Alright friends, I have to ask — is anyone else already in their head about the Christmas glitter, garland, and Christmas chaos? Because I swear, the minute the Halloween candy disappears, the Christmas trees start popping up everywhere! 😂

So tell me… what’s your Christmas theme this year?

I’ve been seeing so many cute ideas floating around — from cozy farmhouse feels to full-on Grinch-tastic green. And y’all… I think gingerbread everything might just be the trend of the year! Those little cookie houses and brown-and-white ornaments are showing up everywhere, and honestly, I’m not mad about it. Like have you been to Hobby Lobby yet?! …or are you avoiding it to save your bank account lol… I personally have to try and stay out of Hobby Lobby… it’s a straight up problem.

Here are a few fun themes I’ve noticed popping up all over Big Spring, Midland, and Odessa:

✨ Gingerbread dreams – warm, sweet, and oh-so-cute!

💚 Grinch vibes – bright green fun that’ll make your heart grow three sizes!

🖤 Black & white Christmas – classy, clean, and totally Pinterest-worthy.

🏠 Farmhouse cozy – think plaid, wood tones, and all the “hot cocoa bar” signs!

Some folks even mix it up — gingerbread meets glam, anyone?

Now I’m dying to know what everyone’s doing this year! Are you team traditional red and green? Or are you trying something new? Do your kiddos “help” decorate (aka move all your ornaments to the bottom branches and contribute to your anxiety and OCD), or are you a stay-up-late-and-perfect-it kind of decorator? I personally have a tree I like to do all on my own… It’s my elegant black and white tree (I know it’s so rude… but! don’t judge yet! I have a system… I play my fav Christmas movies and drink coffee and just enjoy myself while I decorate and I have another couple of trees that I let my daughter decorate, so I don’t feel like that’s too bad, and then I’ll go in later when she’s over it and finish it up and rearrange a bit lol… One tree is Grinch…. so this year I’m hard core battling the urge to swap out my giant tree for Grinch instead… I just need a bigger house I think so that I can have 2 giant trees!

👇 Drop your theme in the comments below! I want to know! I need inspo! Like, is anyone brave enough to switch it up and kind of start over?? ugh, that gives me anxiety a little bit… we go all out and decorate, so that would be a lot. Also, who decorates on the outside?! What do you do?

Let’s see what kind of Christmas magic our West Texas homes are cooking up this season!

And if you love chatting all things holiday, make sure to subscribe to the blog — I would love to chat all things holiday this season… baking, decorating… ect!

 The Great Halloween Costume Chaos: Moms, We Deserve a Medal for This

Every year, I swear Halloween sneaks up on us like the insane candy prices we pretend doesn’t exist. One minute it’s August, and you’re telling yourself you’ll be prepared this year. The next minute, it’s October 20th and you’re panic-ordering a costume that costs more than your high school prom dress — and praying it arrives before the 31st.

Just kidding….actually… funny story…. my mom waited until the last minute to buy my prom dress junior year and paid over $400 for it (yikes!) It was gorgeous, but she did say I had be married and buried in it lol… I would not spend that on my daughter’s halloween costume lol…

Anyway, back to Halloween.

Last year my daughter decided she had to be Harley Quinn. Simple, right? Nope. We went through several versions of “Harley” — “cute Harley,” “classic Harley,” “but-make-it-sparkly Harley” — until I finally just picked one and called it done. She was super cute! Tattooed and all! The bat was a big hit as well!

This year? She’s Rumi from K-Pop Demon Hunters. Yup, and apparently the costume is harder to find than a parking spot at Target the night before Halloween. At least that will arrive on time and even now it is ordered and always an anxiety game on of it will get here on time! It says it will… but we shall see!

Between the shipping fees, accessories, and “but I have to have the purple hair and the body demon tattoos, Mom,” I could’ve practically booked a mini session — which, by the way, would have lasted longer than the costume.

The Mom Struggle Is Real

Why are costumes so expensive now? When we were kids, a plastic mask and a garbage-bag-style poncho from Walmart were enough to make you feel like royalty. Now it’s all LED wings, specific boots or shoes to polish the costume, and imported fabrics that apparently double as college savings accounts, jk… I like to be dramatic sometimes.

But let’s be honest — we’ll still do it. Because the moment they put it on, strike that little superhero (or K-pop star) pose, and light up with excitement… it’s worth every Amazon refresh and credit card sigh… and I only have one kido I have to worry about right now! Some of you super hero moms have 4 or more!

Trick-or-Treating the Memories

Even though Halloween can feel like chaos in costume form and the night turns late and ends in a sugar high bouncing off the walls… then the sugar crash… and trying to rub off the paint stains on our kids faces for church that following Sunday… these are the moments that become our favorite memories. The laughter, the sugar rushes, the family photos where someone’s vampire cape is always falling off — another one’s had enough and is having a meltdown… those are the treasures that stick.

While after all of that your bank account says no to halloween pictures, don’t forget to pull out your cell phone and take some pictures to freeze that moment! I personally love the memories that pop up on my phone every year… then I have my “awww” moment….

BUT!! After that, make sure to put your phone up!! Yes, I’m a photographer telling you to put your phone up and enjoy the moment with your kidos… next year they will be a whole year older and you don’t want to look back and think dang it, I was on my phone all night and I missed everything! The stories, memories, laughs and giggles, the scared looks on your kidos faces when you take them tick-or-treating… You want your kidos to remember that you held their hand and ran with them… laughing or screaming!

So moms, take a breath. You’re doing amazing. Whether the costume shows up on time or you end up crafting one out of duct tape and determination the night before, your kids are going to remember the laughter — not the tracking number.

Happy Halloween, from one tired (and slightly broke) mom to another. 🎃💀👻

Fall Daycare Pictures at The Howard Cottage Were an Absolute Hit!

This year’s Fall Daycare Pictures at The Howard Cottage were nothing short of amazing! The setup was cozy, boutique, and full of fall charm — right inside the daycare. Each little one got their moment to shine, surrounded by warm autumn colors, soft textures, and props that brought out the sweetest smiles. The teachers are always amazing and work together to make sure every child feels comfortable and smiles! They truly are the best and love your babies like their own!

There’s something so special about photographing children in a comfortable environment where they already feel at home. My indoor boutique setup is designed specifically for daycare photography — elegant, seasonal, and completely self-contained, so directors don’t have to lift a finger. I handle everything from setup to posing, with safety and comfort as the top priority for every baby and child.

The families at The Howard Cottage absolutely loved their portraits, and it was such a joy to see so many happy reactions and proud parents!

At Abstract Photography, I specialize in high-end daycare photography across Big Spring, Midland, Odessa, San Angelo, Abilene, and surrounding Texas areas. I bring complete setups, professional lighting, and years of experience handling and posing babies safely. Each session is a unique experience that creates timeless, heartwarming portraits parents adore.

If you’re a daycare director or preschool owner looking to book your spring daycare pictures, now’s the perfect time to reach out. And if your center hasn’t scheduled fall daycare photos yet — there might still be time to grab a last-minute spot before the holidays!

📸 Let’s make your daycare’s photo day effortless, fun, and absolutely stunning.

Contact Abstract Photography today to book your custom daycare photo experience — where every child’s smile is captured beautifully.

www.abstractphotographystudio@gmail.com

432-270-2255 1907 Birdwell Ln, Ste C Big Spring, TX 79720

Pumpkins, Leaves & Memories: Why Fall is Every Parent’s Favorite Season for Family Photos 

 

FALL FAMILY PHOTOS

There’s just something about fall that feels magical. The air turns crisp, the leaves start to crunch under little feet, and suddenly everything tastes like pumpkin spice. For parents, it’s a season filled with cozy moments and traditions that kids will remember for a lifetime—pumpkin patch adventures, hayrides, caramel apples, and those quiet evenings cuddled under a blanket after a busy day.

But here’s the thing… kids grow fast. One minute they’re toddling through a pile of leaves, and the next they’re rolling their eyes at family outings. That’s why so many families in Big Spring, Midland, Odessa, San Angelo, Abilene, and Lubbock love booking fall photo sessions—it’s the perfect way to freeze this fleeting season in time.

✨ Imagine this: your little one in their favorite sweater, giggling while tossing leaves into the air. Your older kids, arm-in-arm, showing the bond that only siblings have. Or maybe your whole family snuggled together against the backdrop of a glowing West Texas sunset. These aren’t just photos—they’re keepsakes that bring back the feeling of this season every time you look at them.

And parents love the bonus of fall portraits: not only do they capture all the cozy, colorful vibes of the season, but they’re also perfectly timed for holiday cards and heartfelt gifts for grandparents. (Let’s be honest—nothing lights up a grandparent’s face faster than new photos of the kids!)

So this fall, don’t just check off the pumpkin patch, football games, and hot cocoa on your list—make time to capture the beauty of your family’s story while the season is at its most magical. Because while fall always comes back, these little moments with your kids never will. 🍁📸

✨ Now booking fall family sessions in Big Spring, Midland, Odessa, San Angelo, Abilene, and Lubbock! My schedule fills quickly this time of year, so if you’ve been dreaming of cozy sweaters, golden sunsets, and portraits that make your heart skip a beat—this is your sign to book your spot today.

Call or text 432-270-2255 to book a consultation! Or, fill out a form here and I’ll get with you as soon as possible! Fill out here!

Why It’s Okay to Let Your Kids Miss a Day of School for Family Time

As parents, we hear it all the time—perfect attendance, never miss a day, school comes first. And while education is incredibly important, here’s something many parents forget: sometimes, giving your child a mental health day or one-on-one family time can be just as valuable as a day in the classroom.

In fact, studies show that kids thrive not only on academics, but also on emotional connection, rest, and family bonding. Missing one day of school here and there won’t ruin their education—but it could strengthen your relationship with your child in ways that matter for a lifetime.

Why Taking a Day Off Can Be Good for Kids

  • Stronger parent-child bond: A break from the daily grind gives you time to connect, talk, and just be together.
  • Rest and reset: Kids have busy schedules too. A day to relax can help them avoid burnout.
  • Creating memories: Some of the most important lessons in life aren’t taught in classrooms—they’re experienced in family adventures, slow mornings, or simply baking cookies together.

Ideas for a Special Day Off

If you decide to let your child skip a day of school, make it meaningful:

  • Plan a mini adventure like a trip to the Abilene zoo, the park, or a museum. A weekend trip to San Antonio that kicks off a little early! There are a ton of free, cool things to do with your kidos there!
  • Spend a cozy day at home cooking, reading, or playing games.
  • Take time for one-on-one conversations to really listen to what’s going on in their world.
  • Capture the moment with photos—you’ll both love looking back on that “just us” day years from now.

The Takeaway

Perfect attendance doesn’t always equal perfect childhood. Sometimes, saying yes to a day off is saying yes to your child’s well-being. Years from now, your kids may not remember every spelling test—but they will remember the times you set everything aside just to be with them.

And if you’re looking for a way to preserve those memories forever, consider scheduling a family photography session, or better yet… consider taking me on one of those park trips, or a zoo trip to capture these special memories! I specialize in capturing the love and laughter between parents and children here in Big Spring, Midland, Odessa, San Angelo, Abilene, and Lubbock. Because at the end of the day, the moments that matter most aren’t measured in grades—they’re measured in smiles, snuggles, and time spent together. Your kidos will remember this!

Why Your Baby Changes So Fast in the First Year (and Why You’ll Want Photos of Every Stage)

Every parent says it: “They grow up too fast.” But did you know that your baby will go through more physical and developmental changes in the first 12 months than at almost any other time in life? From tiny newborn snuggles to wobbly first steps, each stage only lasts a moment — and once it’s gone, it’s gone.

The First Year Milestones You’ll Never Want to Forget

  • Newborn (0–2 weeks): Sleepy, curly poses and those brand-new baby details.
  • 3–6 months: Smiles, tummy time, and discovering the world around them.
  • 6–9 months: Sitting up, giggling, and showing personality.
  • 9–12 months: Crawling, pulling up, maybe even those wobbly first steps.

Why Professional Photography Matters

While phone pictures capture the everyday, professional milestone sessions preserve the tiny details with beautiful lighting, creative setups, and high-quality images you’ll treasure for decades. A pro photographer knows how to freeze those once-in-a-lifetime moments in a way that feels timeless.

Don’t Miss Your Chance

If your baby is about to reach a new stage, now is the perfect time to plan a session. Whether it’s a newborn gallery, a sitter session, or a cake smash for the big first birthday, you’ll never regret having professional photos — but you might regret not having them.

👉 Ready to capture your baby’s first year? Call or text 432-270-2255, or fill out a form at this link and I’ll get with you as soon as I can!

REACH OUT HERE!

The Truth About Baby Fever: When to Worry and When It’s Normal

Few things worry parents more than seeing their baby with a fever. That little forehead feels hot, the thermometer reads higher than usual, and suddenly it feels like an emergency. But not all fevers are a cause for panic. In fact, sometimes a fever is simply your baby’s body doing exactly what it’s supposed to do.

What Counts as a Fever in Babies?

For infants, a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher is considered a fever. Ear and forehead thermometers can be helpful, but rectal is still the most accurate for babies under one year.

Why Babies Get Fevers

A fever isn’t an illness—it’s a symptom. Most of the time, a fever means your baby’s immune system is fighting off something minor, like a cold or a viral infection. It’s the body’s natural defense mechanism.

When It’s Normal

  • Mild fevers (100.4–101°F) after vaccinations are common.
  • A low-grade fever during teething may happen, though usually under 100.4°F.
  • If your baby is still alert, feeding, and playful, the fever is often not a sign of something serious.

When to Call the Doctor

You should contact your pediatrician right away if:

  • Your baby is under 3 months old with any fever (100.4°F or higher).
  • The fever is above 104°F.
  • The fever lasts more than 3 days.
  • Your baby shows other concerning symptoms: trouble breathing, unusual lethargy, persistent vomiting, or dehydration signs (like fewer wet diapers).

Comforting a Baby with a Fever

  • Offer extra fluids or more frequent nursing/bottles.
  • Dress your baby in light clothing and keep the room comfortably cool.
  • Ask your pediatrician about appropriate use of infant Tylenol (acetaminophen).
  • Avoid over-bundling or using cold baths, which can make discomfort worse.

Final Thought

Fever in babies can feel scary, but often it’s just the immune system hard at work. Knowing what’s normal—and when to call your doctor—can give you peace of mind during those long nights.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician with any concerns about your baby’s health.

✨ Parenting is full of “firsts”—first smiles, first fevers, first steps. These early days may feel overwhelming, but they’re also fleeting. My studio specializes in capturing those once-in-a-lifetime newborn and baby milestones so you can remember the sweet moments, not just the stressful ones. If you’re in Big Spring, Midland, Odessa, or surrounding areas, I’d love to help you preserve these precious memories forever.

Why Professional Newborn Photography Is Worth It

The first few weeks with your newborn are a blur of feedings, diaper changes, and sleepy snuggles… or maybe they aren’t so sleepy and baby is fussy. In the midst of it all, you want to remember every tiny detail—from their wispy hair to their curled-up little toes. While phone snapshots are wonderful for everyday memories, professional newborn photography offers something deeper: timeless images that preserve your baby’s earliest days in a way that lasts for generations. This is where Abstract Photography comes in!

1. Capturing the Fleeting Newborn Stage

Babies change quickly. Within weeks, they begin to look less “newborn” and more like infants. Abstract Photography knows the best time to capture those sweet sleepy poses (usually within the first 14 days after birth) so you’ll always remember your little one just as they were in those precious first days.

2. Safety Comes First

Newborn photography requires more than a good camera—it takes training, patience, and an understanding of baby safety. Abstract Photography is experienced in safe posing, soothing techniques, and creating a calm environment so your baby and you are comfortable at all times. Peace of mind is priceless when it comes to your newborn.

3. More Than Just Pictures—It’s Art

Professional newborn sessions go beyond snapshots. From cozy swaddles and soft lighting to creative props and backdrops, your Abstract Photography designs a session that results in images worthy of hanging on your walls or passing down as heirlooms. These portraits become a part of your family’s story.

4. Stress-Free Experience for Parents

Between sleepless nights and endless feedings, the last thing new parents need is added stress. Abstract Photography handles everything—from soothing baby to setting up poses—so you can relax and simply enjoy the experience.

5. Investment That Lasts a Lifetime

While newborn photography is an investment, the value extends far beyond the session itself. Long after baby clothes are packed away and toys are outgrown, your portraits remain. They become treasured keepsakes for you, your child, and even future generations.

Why Choose a Professional in West Texas

As a qualified newborn photographer with over 10 years of experience, Abstract Photography specializes in capturing newborns safely and beautifully. My studio in Big Spring, TX, welcomes families from Midland, Odessa, San Angelo, Abilene, and Lubbock who are looking for more than just photos—they’re looking for memories that last and a wonderful experience that leaves a lasting impression for each new addition to the family.

📸 If you’re expecting, now is the perfect time to reserve your newborn session. Let’s set up a consultation! Ask about how we can incorporate a maternity session as well!

Why Now is the Perfect Time to Book Your Newborn or Cake Smash Session!

If you’ve been thinking about booking a newborn photography session or celebrating your little on’e first birthday with a cake smash, now is the perfect time to get on the calendar!

As a professional newborn photographer in Big Spring, TX, with well over 10 years of experience, I specialize in capturing once-in-a-lifetime milestones for families across Midland, Odessa, San Angelo, Abilene, and Lubbock. These fleeting moments- whether it’s your baby’s first few days or their joyful smash into a birthday cake (or sometimes it’s not so joyous lol, but still so cute!)- deserve to be documented beautifully.

Once you have digitals though…. what do you do with them?? That’s where I come in! I have so many wonderful keepsakes to print and preserve your images in! From wall art to albums, to collection boxes that preserve your images using only the best archival inks and materials.

What does this mean? Basically in a nutshell… you didn’t waste your time having these pictures done! Options provided by Abstract Photography are nothing short of museum quality and will last at least a 100 years and can be passed down. This is so important! It’s a lot of work just having a baby whether it’s your first time or you are juggling a busy toddler, a new baby, a feisty husband lol… maybe a teenager as well… or twin newborn… or twins for a one year session… but you still got to the studio looking flawless and took amazing pictures, came back, picked out all your favorites which was so hard to do!! So, make sure you put these favorites memories into a keepsake that you can look back on and save for their senior moments…. when they bring home that one that they will marry and they want to see their baby pictures… It matters!

Why Choose a Newborn Session?

Newborns change so quickly in the first few weeks of life. This is your first family photo! This is that sweet little one’s first pictures ever! Hello little one! My cozy studio is designed with safety, comfort, and timeless in mind, so parents can relax and grab a drink or nap (yes! so many have napped in the studio lol, sometimes you just need it) while I create stunning portraits of their little one. From tiny details like curled fingers and toes to family portraits that highlight the love surrounding your baby, these sessions preserve memories you’ll cherish forever.

Why Cake Smash Sessions Are So Special?

That first birthday arrives faster than anyone expects! A cake smash session is the perfect way to celebrate your baby’s big milestone. We’ll capture their giggles, curiosity, and sweet frosting covered face in a fun and stress free experience. I provide setups that fit your vision, but molded to my style that you love so much! Every session is unique!

Limited Availability Left for 2025!

My calendar fills up quickly during the holiday season! If you’re due this year or your little one is turning one soon, I recommend reserving your session now to guarantee a spot.

Booking is simple! Just reach out! Call or text me! If you call though and I am with another client, please leave a message as spam calls flood my phone daily and I will return! 432-270-2255 You can also reach out to me through the website or message me through social media! Don’t wait- these are the memories you’ll treasure for a lifetime!

Frosted Holiday Mini Sessions in Big Spring, TX November 22nd!

Looking for timeless holiday portraits the whole family will love? These Frosted Holiday Mini Sessions are here just in time to capture your family’s holiday joy before the season rushes in. This set is designed for kids or families, and offers a clean, cozy, and elegant vibe and experience! This is perfect for holiday cards and memories that will last a lifetime!

We get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holidays, I think we forget to stop and document them. We also forget that (as much as we don’t want to think about it) as our kids are aging and growing and changing…. so are we as parents! (I know… it’s so sad!) So, get these pictures done! Abstract Photography LOVES wall art and has so many options for you! Put your pictures on a big canvas, hanging canvas, or even a wood that you can pop out every year! Your kids will appreciate it later looking back… (and you can think, man, I looked good!! lol)

Details at a Glance…

  • November 22nd (weekend before Thanksgiving- perfect timing for holiday cards!)
  • 15 minute sessions! (yes… It’s amazing what I can grab in 15 minutes and any longer will make it hard for you to narrow down your favs!)
  • 10 polished digital images (with upgrade options available later)
  • $300 total ($100 non-refundable deposit to book and $200 due at time of session.

Whether you are in Big Spring, Midland, Odessa, San Angelo, Abilene, Lubbock, Lamesa, Sterling City, Sweetwater, or Stanton, these Christmas minis are a wonderful way to capture your family’s story… yes, we laugh, we giggle, and have fun!

Book your spot ASAP! It’s def a bonus booking in-studio holiday mini sessions during the cold months in West Texas, especially if you have babies and little ones… or older ones! This weather gets unpredictable and crazy!

Facebook message, text message, or call 432-270-2255 and let’s get you on the calendar!

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