February 2011 Fashion Photo Shoot

I was blessed with a very sheltered childhood. My parents moved my three siblings and me from Carlsbad to the small town of Julian when we were all fairly small children. They built us a great big house (with the largest walk in closet I have ever had... it ruined me), with a nice pool, on a couple of acres in between Julian and Lake Cuyamaca. In my eyes it was the perfect childhood. There was more love than one can imagine in our home. We always had friends over and house guests! Of course my siblings and I argued and got into trouble, we weren't perfect at all. Our parents gave us the opportunity to be nothing but children and it was perfect. Throughout my childhood we had many animals: dogs, cats, bunnies, ponies, pigs, a bird, snakes and every other reptile that you can find in "our neck of the woods." Throughout the week we went to school and we were a part of every after school activity imaginable. At one point or another I played softball, basketball, and soccer. I also took ballet, tap, acting classes, and every other activity that I was interested in. My Dad was my coach in softball and he was the head honcho of our Julian surf team, the Surfing Wahines. When we weren't attending a recital or game, we were all at home, in my parent’s room, watching movies and having bedroom picnics! My little sister, Ali and I spent so many days building forts and playing house on our property. At one point I believe I convinced her that my baby doll was real! We would dress up in everything that my Mom owned—from her wedding dress to lingerie—we destroyed it all. I played with dolls and Barbies up until the seventh grade... when I discovered boys (and burned down that nice little shelter that my parents had built for me).

I wouldn't change a single thing about my childhood. The inspiration for the February shoot was Never Never Land. Growing up in the country you aren't forced into the fast lane, and you can take as much time as you need to grow up. However, some people are lucky enough to never have to grow up! I hope to always enjoy the activities that brought me so much joy as a child! The shoot took place at the Thompson Residence on Palomar Mtn. The amAzing model is Miss. Jessie Thompson, a natural!

Forever Young, Frilly & Fun!