As a kid, I remember loving my birthday parties. My mom baked a cake, often of the Duncan Hines variety, and my cousins came over bearing gifts. That's it. Things were simple. There were no custom-made labels identifying anything served at the kitchen table. No goodie bags sent home with those who came. And the guest list? Family only, maybe a few friends once I reached grade school.

I was both excited but a bit nervous last night when I arrived in downtown Indianapolis for my engagement shoot with Monica and Kevin. I mean, it's been months since I've photographed an e-session. Would I remember how to walk and talk and shoot at the same time? Hahaha....

A look at some of the recent reads I've picked up in the past few weeks, sharing with you my thoughts on plot, characters, and whether it's worth your time to page through them on your own.