i left part of my heart at laguna beach ... and with my new lifelong friends. part two of my OC Series.

I'm sure, if you read my blog entry from a few days ago, you gathered that attending The Workshop was beyond my wildest dreams. And part of that is because I met some of the most authentic, radiant photographers in the world. I wish I had captured photos of ALL of them. They just beam generosity, hope, love, talent. The night before the workshop some of us met at Laguna Beach and took advantage of the scenery by shooting until sunset. Don't get me wrong ... I love Madison, WI ... and in the end, I want to be wherever my love, Troy, is. But man ... every.single.time. that I go to southern California, I am overcome with it's everything.

Here are a few of shots I took that evening on the beach.

Photographers by sunset.

Michelle. Isn't she adorable beyond adorable? She was the first to get out into the water and splash around for a bio photo. She is warm-hearted and wonderful. Love her.

Julie. I loved that I had the chance to know Julie more by sitting across from her at dinner. She has an awesome curiosity and passion for her new photography career.

Gladys. This girl. WOW. A rare gem. She radiates authenticity and I am honored to now have her in my life. Miss her tons already.

Gladys and Chris. They are one dynamic duo. Full of love ... overflowing and awesome love. Oh yeah -- I can't forget to mention that they are so lucky because Jasmine Star will be shooting their November 2010 wedding in Sonoma!!

Keyonna. Gosh -- am I gushing yet about the awesomeness of all these people?! Keyonna was so fun and kind. And one amazing dancer! Watch her break it down near the waves!

Jessica/Jesser and Mr. Jesser :). Melt-your-heart nice and another super in-love couple. A joy to photograph and know. And doesn't she look like Liv Tyler?! I think so :)

Unknown girl with cute dog and boyfriend. Hahah, I wish I would have gotten their names, but they were super gracious and let us photograph them as they walked along the beach. I adored their style and smiles. I'm sure someone else at the shoot got their names -- so I'll post them when I know.

Dinner was at BJs on the Pacific Coast Hwy. Jasmine came, as I mentioned in my first OC Series post (you know ... the post where I described how I freaked-out when I saw her in Real Life), and bought us all pizookies!! Holy cow -- these were crazy awesome delicious!!

Again, I wish I had captured photos of every single wonderful person I met this past week. They all rocked my world and I can't wait until we meet again. My hotel was only a 10 minute freeway drive to Laguna Beach, and I returned three times before flying back to Madison. It really gets to me. I can't wait for my next trip back.