One of the features I'll be running on the blog while I'm on maternity leave is called "Why I Love This Photo."  Guest writers submit their favorite photos and the stories behind them.  Anyone can submit a photo and story - it's a fun way to appreciate photography and what makes it so important.  So feel free to send your story to me at kerryrailey@gmail.com.  I can't wait to hear it.  This week's submission comes from Katie Mahoney, of Athena's by Katie Lynn; a local party host for fun ladies' nights! 

Here is Katie's story:

This photo of my family was taken on Thanksgiving; a day when people take some time out of their daily lives to be thankful for what they have and who they have. I try to take time out of every day and take a look at everything and everyone that surrounds me and be grateful for it all.

On this particular Thanksgiving, I was looking at my kids (William, 14 and Julianna, 11) and was in awe of how big they have gotten and what amazing young humans they have become.  I am proud of my husband Tommy and myself for raising such great kids. We are looking forward to watching what amazing things they do with their lives and what an impact they will have in this crazy world we live in. I love that we are raising our kids in Weymouth - the same town I grew up in. My husband and I were high school sweet hearts and will be married 15 years this coming May.  Our puggle Layla belle is the spoiled baby of our family.

Here is Katie's story about her business:

I am a local business owner: Athena's by Katie Lynn.  I go into people's homes and educate, enlighten, entertain and empower them. Some may say what I do is taboo, I feel the complete opposite!  I am proud of what I do; when people come to a party that I am hosting it is my hope that, while they are there for a few short hours, they forget about their outside lives, forget about daily stresses, and relax, unwind, laugh and have a great time.

Some people don't realize that Athena's also carried an amazing line of spa products. In fact I also offer PG-rated spa parties that are fun for everyone. My Athena's business has changed my life and my family's life.  I am a more confident woman.  I know who I am and what I stand for.  Our family was hardly making end meet before I started my business and now we're in a really good place; we just took out first real family vacation!

Book your Athena's by Katie Lynn party for the new year and let me entertain you and your friends let's have some fun ...let me be your goddess for life...

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A picture really can be worth a thousand words.  How many of you have felt like Katie did on a specific occasion, or by looking at a photo?  It is so lovely to see such reflection from a mom.  Though, I do suspect we find ourselves doing that often; I think it goes with the title.  ;) 

I am particularly excited that Katie submitted a photo of her WHOLE family.  I LOVE it when moms (and dads!) get in the picture too! 

I had the pleasure of photographing Katie's gorgeous kids waaaaaaay back when I was new to the photography world.  God love Katie for supporting such a new artist in the area.  I haven't worked personally with Katie as an Athena's rep, but if I ever do throw another party, it will be with her.  And she's 100% right; Athena's isn't just about R-rated fun; it was actually an Athena's product that saved our bed from my water breaking on the night Rosie Mae was born!  It's the most amazing waterproof blanket (without seeming like it belongs in a hospital) and it will absolutely be broken out for when the kiddo's are being potty trained.  They also carry my favorite bath salts ever.  Hmm... maybe when things settle down with Conor I'll have to book a party... 

To get in touch with Katie, you can email her at Athenasbykatielynn@yahoo.com, or visit her Athena's Page here. 

Come back next week for another guest blogger and why they love their photo!  And if you're interested in submitting, I'd love to have you! Email me at Kerryrailey@gmail.com or message me via the Irish Eyes Photography Facebook Page.

-Kerry:)