Luke was up for anything— including climbing a tree and rock-hopping. We had a great session exploring Millpond Park and Chipp-a-Waters Park in Mount Pleasant.

I love his brother's face peeking out from behind the pitcher. The wonder of new life— it's tangible. The joy! It makes my heart happy.

Seriously, this little guy is a bundle of giggles. I was so happy to photograph a special "Mommy & Me" session while in Illinois for Thanksgiving. (I'm also thankful no one was photographing me making silly faces to make Isaac laugh.)

I particularly love fall foliage because of the color contrast between the fiery leaves and the still-green grass. But the beautiful backdrop of Charley Brown Park in Flora, Ill., doesn't stand a chance next to this little charmer! 

Maggie's Senior Pictures Maggie's Senior Pictures Maggie's Senior Pictures Maggie's Senior Pictures Maggie's Senior Pictures

Using special glasses, we were able to watch the moon begin to cover the sun; it started very slowly, but gradually we noticed the light was getting dimmer. The temperature was getting cooler. 

Southern Illinois Eclipse The beginning of the eclipse looked like someone was taking a bite out of the sun. See those dots on the sun? Those are sunspots. Pretty cool!

It was getting darker and suddenly, everything around us was twilight. It was a 360-degree sunset. It was otherworldly.

Southern Illinois Eclipse

Totality. The pink bits are called Bailey's Beads.

Southern Illinois Eclipse

The final image is a composite of three images at slightly different settings to properly expose the sun's rays during totality. I toned and edited them in Photoshop CC.

I already can't wait for the next eclipse! I learned a lot about the science behind eclipses and how to photograph them. For starters, it the last few moments before totality, it goes FAST! I wish I would have taken a moment to photograph the little crescent shadows. Good thing there will be a next time!

One of the trickiest parts of family portraiture is getting kids to cooperate— especially when they would rather be playing! This type of imagery requires not only patience, but also playing along. With children, if they're not happy, the photographs will show it! So what's a photographer to do? I like to turn it into a game of sorts. Maybe after each pose, I'll give them a clue to a 20-questions-style of game. Maybe that means we take frequent dog-petting breaks. Maybe that means letting them make silly faces and then look at the back of the camera. But really, these little sweethearts are such a delight. I mean, just look at them!

110% chance there are tickles going on in this picture.

And, just like that, with a little patience and a whole lot of laughter, I'm able to capture these moments. I love what I do! (Not pictured:  the girls crying when I had to leave. #AuntsAreAwesome)

I LOVE beautiful churches. I love beautiful liturgies, beautiful music and beautiful art. Beauty is transcendent and helps lift our hearts to Heaven. I am so thankful that the Cathedral reflects the immeasurable beauty of God, the source of all that is good.

A crucifix, hand-carved in 1877 by Philadelphian Herman Kim, was a gift to our Cathedral from Cardinal Rigali and the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.

Eight bishops, one cardinal, dozens of priests and several deacons and seminarians joined the celebration. The Mass was rich in symbolic rites and engaged all the senses with the music, incense, sprinkling of Holy Water, ritual lighting of candles and other aspects to enhance the dignity of the event. It was a humbling experience to document this Mass. I hope you enjoy the photographs as much as I enjoyed making them. To see the full take (350+ images) please visit the Diocese of Saginaw on Flickr.

Dedication of the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption, Diocese of Saginaw, May 9 Dedication of the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption, Diocese of Saginaw, May 9 Dedication of the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption, Diocese of Saginaw, May 9 Dedication of the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption, Diocese of Saginaw, May 9 Dedication of the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption, Diocese of Saginaw, May 9 Fr. Jim Bessert holds a brazier with burning incense on the Altar to symbolize our sacrifice of praise. Bishop Cistone pours Sacred Chrism onto five crosses etched into the altar, representing the five wounds of Christ. In doing this, he consecrates it as the sacred icon of Christ in our midst. Dedication of the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption, Diocese of Saginaw, May 9 Dedication of the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption, Diocese of Saginaw, May 9 Dedication of the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption, Diocese of Saginaw, May 9 Dedication of the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption, Diocese of Saginaw, May 9

A light spring rain had just fallen, and a bit before twilight, I decided to unwind by making photos of the magnolia tree in our front yard. The raindrops clung to the velvety petals. It was lovely. 

After composing and shooting about a dozen frames, I realized these super close-up shots capture the way I see the world in a specific way that my usual go-to lenses don't. I'm a very detail-oriented person. I relish the tiny things most folks overlook. Macro lenses enable me to marvel over the beauty in the smallest of details.

Magnolia BlossomMagnolia blossoms after a spring rain. April, 2017. Magnolia BlossomMagnolia blossoms after a spring rain. April, 2017. Magnolia BlossomMagnolia blossoms after a spring rain. April, 2017. Magnolia BlossomMagnolia blossoms after a spring rain. April, 2017.

Youth from the Diocese of Saginaw participate in the annual March for Life in Washington, D.C.

I was also grateful to be able to spend some free time visiting my friend Sarah, who works in the social media department at National Geographic. We attended Southern Illinois University Carbondale, where we both studied photojournalism.

I joined her on a Walk With Locals photography event; dozens of DC locals get together and walk in a visually interesting area, making photos and friends along the way. It was fun and relaxing after the intensity of covering the March.

Our last stop on the pilgrimage before returning to Michigan was the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.

Youth from the Diocese of Saginaw visited the Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, where Bishop Joseph Cistone celebrated Mass
It was so breathtakingly beautiful that it brought tears to my eyes. Throughout the upper and lower churches, images of the Blessed Virgin Mary as she has appeared to many cultures were enshrined:  Our Lady of Guadalupe, Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal, Our Lady of Sorrows, Queen of China, Queen of Ireland, Our Lady of Czestochowa.... everywhere were images honoring Mary as Mother and Queen of all humanity.

Youth from the Diocese of Saginaw visited the Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, where Bishop Joseph Cistone celebrated Mass Youth from the Diocese of Saginaw visited the Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, where Bishop Joseph Cistone celebrated Mass
Bishop Cistone celebrated Mass for pilgrims from around the country before we began our long trip back.

Youth from the Diocese of Saginaw visited the Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, where Bishop Joseph Cistone celebrated Mass Youth from the Diocese of Saginaw visited the Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, where Bishop Joseph Cistone celebrated Mass

But sometimes, being a journalist means you get to spend a day with a spunky puppy who is training to be a Leader Dog for the Blind.

Read the story and view the full gallery on OurMidland.com here.

Hannah Piper trains Leader Dog for the BlindDANIELLE McGREW TENBUSCH | for the Daily News
Blue, a five-month-old Labrador, is in training to be a Leader Dog for the Blind. Midland native and current Michigan State University student Hannah Piper is raising her for the Rochester-based nonprofit. LOOK AT THIS SWEET PUPPY FACE! I'm in love. 

Not pictured:  The puppy, Blue, trying to lick my camera. (That definitely happened. After all, she's still a puppy.)

Her puppy raiser, Hannah, is balancing training with being a senior at Michigan State University, working as a lab assistant, and being a leader in the university's ROTC Army program! 

Hannah Piper trains Leader Dog for the BlindDANIELLE McGREW TENBUSCH | for the Daily News
Matt Thomas, Catey Regis, Hannah Piper and Nicholas Masters listen to their professor, Dr. Patricia Wilson as Blue, a five-month-old Labrador, rests during a macroeconomics and public policy class on Thursday, Dec. 8, in East Lansing. Hannah Piper trains Leader Dog for the BlindDANIELLE McGREW TENBUSCH | for the Daily News
Hannah Piper puts future Leader Dog Blue's vest on outside Berkey Hall at Michigan State University on Thursday, Dec. 8, in East Lansing. The vest signals to Blue that she is working; Piper removes it when Blue relieves herself, gets playtime or otherwise has time off work. Hannah Piper trains Leader Dog for the BlindDANIELLE McGREW TENBUSCH | for the Daily News
Lt. Col. Jeff Winston pets future Leader Dog Blue as Hannah Piper holds her on Thursday, Dec. 8, in East Lansing. When the five-month-old Labrador is wearing her vest, she is working and can only be pet in limited circumstances.
"We saw the advantage here in the program of her getting some experience with hands-on training animals as she develops herself to become a vet for the Army,Ó Winston said.

Now, though, there is a newfound hope for parents of SMA children. Spinraza, a therapy that uses spinal injections, is set to hit the market in months. Children in clinical trials have shown remarkable progress. 

The Butler family doesn't have much— with two SMA-positive sons and two daughters without the disease, they care for their children around the clock, sacrificing comforts and luxuries I take for granted, like going to the store easily.

But they have so much hope. Melanie, the mother, advocates tirelessly trying to get her sons into clinical trials to no avail. But she is thankful for her sons being alive. For the health they do have. 

I also talked to the mother of a boy who is in the Spinraza trials, who has began to walk when doctors estimated he would live only months.

These families showed so much strength and so much gratitude. I hope, from the bottom of my heart, that Spinraza is available to all children with this disease. And soon.

Read the article here.

DANIELLE McGREW TENBUSCH | for the Daily News
Lillian Girardin, 11, kisses her brother Logan Snyder, 4, while playing a game on an iPad at their home in Wheeler on Wednesday, Nov. 23. Logan can play games on the touchscreen device if someone holds it for him. DANIELLE McGREW TENBUSCH | for the Daily News
Melanie Butler wipes her son Noah Snyder's face at their home in Wheeler on Wednesday, Nov. 23. Noah, 2, has no SMN proteins in his nerve cells. (SMN stands for survival of motor neuron.) His condition is worse than his brother, Logan Snyder, but he can move his fingers with encouragement and move his arms with support.
"I try to treat them like any other kid," Butler said. DANIELLE McGREW TENBUSCH | for the Daily News
Les Snyder watches YouTube videos with his son Logan Snyder, 4, at their home in Wheeler on Wednesday, Nov. 23. Logan was diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy when he was 5 months old.

Anyways, we had fun taking photos around my hometown of Flora, even though we needed to take a several-hour break for a thunderstorm.

Enjoy!

bren with saxBrendan West, Class of 2017 senior photos 20160825_Brendan seniors _drm_047Youth retreat with Father Jose 20160707_Brendan senior_drm_319Brendan West, Class of 2017 senior photos

Brendan, like me, is quite a bookworm. He especially enjoys the Harry Potter series. Here he is "casting a spell" outside the library. 20160707_Brendan senior_drm_210 20160707_Brendan senior_drm_411 And here's one of Brendan with me. I'm so excited to see what he accomplishes as he heads off to college next year!

Cassie wanted to wear her mother's 1988 wedding dress for her own beach wedding. However, there was a great deal of work to be done to transform the poofy-sleeved dress to a flowing gown. Enter Kelly Wilson, a retired art teacher with an affinity for recreating vintage wedding dresses.

This story, which you can read here, was such fun to write and photograph because of the love and friendship Cassie and Sue share. Vintage Wedding DressDANIELLE McGREW TENBUSCH | for the Daily News
Sue LaBonville of Sanford kisses her daughter Cassie as they pose for a photo at Blue Gardenia Bridal Boutique in Midland on June 9.
ÒWe have a really special bond. WeÕre best friends," Cassie LaBonville said of her mother.

Cassie and her fiancé Trevor were getting married in Mexico in December, but this story was shot in June for a July run date. Of course Cassie didn't want Trevor— or anyone else— to know what her dress was going to look like. As a recent bride, I completely understood and wanted to respect that. We agreed that I could photograph the dress in pieces, essentially, just never showing a full view. Since the dress was still under construction, so to speak, Cassie thought it would keep the final reveal a surprise.

Vintage Wedding DressDANIELLE McGREW TENBUSCH | for the Daily News
Cassie LaBonville and Kelly Wilson share a laugh at Blue Gardenia Bridal Boutique in Midland on June 9. Cassie LaBonville will be marrying Trevor Camanse of Gladwin on Dec. 19 in Riviera Maya, Mexico, wearing the dress Wilson created from her mother's gown. So how to photograph this, practically? I tried to focus one two main aspects:  the emotions and relationship between the women and details.

Women working together, laughing and creating was an important part of the narrative. The new dress' very existence was because of the relationship of Cassie and Sue. Kelly's amazing work was another aspect of this relationship growing together on this journey to Cassie's next step in adulthood.

Vintage Wedding DressDANIELLE McGREW TENBUSCH | for the Daily News
Cassie LaBonville holds pieces of lace as seamstress Kelly Wilson and her mother Sue LaBonville discuss the design at Blue Gardenia Bridal Boutique in Midland on June 9. Cassie LaBonville will be marrying Trevor Camanse of Gladwin on Dec. 19 in Riviera Maya, Mexico, wearing a remade version of her mother's wedding dress.

The other aspect I could photograph was very tight detail shots; out of context, they showed the craftsmanship but not revealing the full picture.

Vintage Wedding DressDANIELLE McGREW TENBUSCH | for the Daily News
The bodice of Sue LaBonville's wedding dress, featuring a high neck with lace detail, was attached to a new skirt for Cassie LaBonville's gown. Kelly Wilson of Midland has remade many vintage wedding dresses like this.
"I get to pull pieces together. ItÕs kind of like a collage,Ó she said. "It's fun."

Holy Week begins on Palm Sunday, during which Christians commemorate Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem as the Jews waved palm branches and sang "Hosanna!" as praise. Christians recall this by processing with palms. This year, the Most Rev. Joseph Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated a Feed the Fire Youth Mass at Blessed Sacrament Parish in Midland.

Feed the Fire Mass at Blessed Sacrament, MidlandThe Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated a "Feed the Fire" Mass for the Palm Sunday Vigil on Saturday, March 19, at Blessed Sacrament Parish in Midland.Bishop Cistone celebrates Feed the Fire Masses to bring together youth from around the diocese. These Masses are planned for youth and their families and include upbeat praise and worship music.
The next Feed the Fire Mass will be Saturday, April 23, at 4 p.m. at St. Dominic Parish, St. Stephen Church, 1310 Malzahn St. in Saginaw. All are invited to attend this Mass, and there is no registration needed for this free event. Following Mass, those in attendance have an opportunity to share dinner with Bishop Cistone, and there is additional time for prayer. Feed the Fire Mass at Blessed Sacrament, MidlandThe Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated a "Feed the Fire" Mass for the Palm Sunday Vigil on Saturday, March 19, at Blessed Sacrament Parish in Midland.Bishop Cistone celebrates Feed the Fire Masses to bring together youth from around the diocese. These Masses are planned for youth and their families and include upbeat praise and worship music.
The next Feed the Fire Mass will be Saturday, April 23, at 4 p.m. at St. Dominic Parish, St. Stephen Church, 1310 Malzahn St. in Saginaw. All are invited to attend this Mass, and there is no registration needed for this free event. Following Mass, those in attendance have an opportunity to share dinner with Bishop Cistone, and there is additional time for prayer. Feed the Fire Mass at Blessed Sacrament, MidlandThe Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated a "Feed the Fire" Mass for the Palm Sunday Vigil on Saturday, March 19, at Blessed Sacrament Parish in Midland.Bishop Cistone celebrates Feed the Fire Masses to bring together youth from around the diocese. These Masses are planned for youth and their families and include upbeat praise and worship music.
The next Feed the Fire Mass will be Saturday, April 23, at 4 p.m. at St. Dominic Parish, St. Stephen Church, 1310 Malzahn St. in Saginaw. All are invited to attend this Mass, and there is no registration needed for this free event. Following Mass, those in attendance have an opportunity to share dinner with Bishop Cistone, and there is additional time for prayer. On Tuesday, I covered the Chrism Mass, during which the oils to be used for different sacraments are blessed by the bishop. The Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption was packed with almost 700 people from all 56 parishes across the diocese. 

SAGINAW— The Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated the Chrism Mass on Tuesday, March 22 at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw. Bishop Cistone was joined by priests, deacons, religious sisters and parishioners from across the 11-county diocese, representing each of the 56 parishes.

At the Chrism Mass, the holy oils— which will be used for the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, Holy Orders and Anointing of the Sick, as well as the dedication of churches and consecration of altars— were blessed by Bishop Cistone and distributed to representatives of the parish communities within the Diocese of Saginaw. The priests of the diocese concelebrated the Mass with Bishop Cistone and made a renewal of their priestly vows.

For the first time in the diocese's history, the Chrism Mass was aired live on WNEM TV-5, wnem.com and saginaw.org.

“As a Church, we are continuing to look for ways to reach out and share the Good News of Jesus Christ, not only with our Catholic population, but also with the community at large,” said Bishop Cistone. “Sharing our Chrism Mass is one way in which we can invite people to experience the loving and merciful heart of Jesus.”

Bishop Cistone used this opportunity to teach about the Mass, which was being viewed by Catholic school students and many others. He explained the historical and Biblical significance of holy oils, as well as the different parts of the Mass.

A replay of the Chrism Mass will be available on WNEM TV-5 on Saturday, March 26, following the 11 p.m. news and on ENEM MY5 on Friday, March 25 at 3 p.m. SAGINAW— The Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated the Chrism Mass on Tuesday, March 22 at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw. Bishop Cistone was joined by priests, deacons, religious sisters and parishioners from across the 11-county diocese, representing each of the 56 parishes.

At the Chrism Mass, the holy oils— which will be used for the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, Holy Orders and Anointing of the Sick, as well as the dedication of churches and consecration of altars— were blessed by Bishop Cistone and distributed to representatives of the parish communities within the Diocese of Saginaw. The priests of the diocese concelebrated the Mass with Bishop Cistone and made a renewal of their priestly vows.

For the first time in the diocese's history, the Chrism Mass was aired live on WNEM TV-5, wnem.com and saginaw.org.

“As a Church, we are continuing to look for ways to reach out and share the Good News of Jesus Christ, not only with our Catholic population, but also with the community at large,” said Bishop Cistone. “Sharing our Chrism Mass is one way in which we can invite people to experience the loving and merciful heart of Jesus.”

Bishop Cistone used this opportunity to teach about the Mass, which was being viewed by Catholic school students and many others. He explained the historical and Biblical significance of holy oils, as well as the different parts of the Mass.

A replay of the Chrism Mass will be available on WNEM TV-5 on Saturday, March 26, following the 11 p.m. news and on ENEM MY5 on Friday, March 25 at 3 p.m. SAGINAW— The Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated the Chrism Mass on Tuesday, March 22 at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw. Bishop Cistone was joined by priests, deacons, religious sisters and parishioners from across the 11-county diocese, representing each of the 56 parishes.

At the Chrism Mass, the holy oils— which will be used for the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, Holy Orders and Anointing of the Sick, as well as the dedication of churches and consecration of altars— were blessed by Bishop Cistone and distributed to representatives of the parish communities within the Diocese of Saginaw. The priests of the diocese concelebrated the Mass with Bishop Cistone and made a renewal of their priestly vows.

For the first time in the diocese's history, the Chrism Mass was aired live on WNEM TV-5, wnem.com and saginaw.org.

“As a Church, we are continuing to look for ways to reach out and share the Good News of Jesus Christ, not only with our Catholic population, but also with the community at large,” said Bishop Cistone. “Sharing our Chrism Mass is one way in which we can invite people to experience the loving and merciful heart of Jesus.”

Bishop Cistone used this opportunity to teach about the Mass, which was being viewed by Catholic school students and many others. He explained the historical and Biblical significance of holy oils, as well as the different parts of the Mass.

A replay of the Chrism Mass will be available on WNEM TV-5 on Saturday, March 26, following the 11 p.m. news and on ENEM MY5 on Friday, March 25 at 3 p.m. SAGINAW— The Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated the Chrism Mass on Tuesday, March 22 at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw. Bishop Cistone was joined by priests, deacons, religious sisters and parishioners from across the 11-county diocese, representing each of the 56 parishes.

At the Chrism Mass, the holy oils— which will be used for the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, Holy Orders and Anointing of the Sick, as well as the dedication of churches and consecration of altars— were blessed by Bishop Cistone and distributed to representatives of the parish communities within the Diocese of Saginaw. The priests of the diocese concelebrated the Mass with Bishop Cistone and made a renewal of their priestly vows.

For the first time in the diocese's history, the Chrism Mass was aired live on WNEM TV-5, wnem.com and saginaw.org.

“As a Church, we are continuing to look for ways to reach out and share the Good News of Jesus Christ, not only with our Catholic population, but also with the community at large,” said Bishop Cistone. “Sharing our Chrism Mass is one way in which we can invite people to experience the loving and merciful heart of Jesus.”

Bishop Cistone used this opportunity to teach about the Mass, which was being viewed by Catholic school students and many others. He explained the historical and Biblical significance of holy oils, as well as the different parts of the Mass.

A replay of the Chrism Mass will be available on WNEM TV-5 on Saturday, March 26, following the 11 p.m. news and on ENEM MY5 on Friday, March 25 at 3 p.m. SAGINAW— The Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated the Chrism Mass on Tuesday, March 22 at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw. Bishop Cistone was joined by priests, deacons, religious sisters and parishioners from across the 11-county diocese, representing each of the 56 parishes.

At the Chrism Mass, the holy oils— which will be used for the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, Holy Orders and Anointing of the Sick, as well as the dedication of churches and consecration of altars— were blessed by Bishop Cistone and distributed to representatives of the parish communities within the Diocese of Saginaw. The priests of the diocese concelebrated the Mass with Bishop Cistone and made a renewal of their priestly vows.

For the first time in the diocese's history, the Chrism Mass was aired live on WNEM TV-5, wnem.com and saginaw.org.

“As a Church, we are continuing to look for ways to reach out and share the Good News of Jesus Christ, not only with our Catholic population, but also with the community at large,” said Bishop Cistone. “Sharing our Chrism Mass is one way in which we can invite people to experience the loving and merciful heart of Jesus.”

Bishop Cistone used this opportunity to teach about the Mass, which was being viewed by Catholic school students and many others. He explained the historical and Biblical significance of holy oils, as well as the different parts of the Mass.

A replay of the Chrism Mass will be available on WNEM TV-5 on Saturday, March 26, following the 11 p.m. news and on ENEM MY5 on Friday, March 25 at 3 p.m. SAGINAW— The Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated the Chrism Mass on Tuesday, March 22 at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw. Bishop Cistone was joined by priests, deacons, religious sisters and parishioners from across the 11-county diocese, representing each of the 56 parishes.

At the Chrism Mass, the holy oils— which will be used for the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, Holy Orders and Anointing of the Sick, as well as the dedication of churches and consecration of altars— were blessed by Bishop Cistone and distributed to representatives of the parish communities within the Diocese of Saginaw. The priests of the diocese concelebrated the Mass with Bishop Cistone and made a renewal of their priestly vows.

For the first time in the diocese's history, the Chrism Mass was aired live on WNEM TV-5, wnem.com and saginaw.org.

“As a Church, we are continuing to look for ways to reach out and share the Good News of Jesus Christ, not only with our Catholic population, but also with the community at large,” said Bishop Cistone. “Sharing our Chrism Mass is one way in which we can invite people to experience the loving and merciful heart of Jesus.”

Bishop Cistone used this opportunity to teach about the Mass, which was being viewed by Catholic school students and many others. He explained the historical and Biblical significance of holy oils, as well as the different parts of the Mass.

A replay of the Chrism Mass will be available on WNEM TV-5 on Saturday, March 26, following the 11 p.m. news and on ENEM MY5 on Friday, March 25 at 3 p.m. Thursday was the beginning of the Easter Triduum— three sacred days, Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Holy Saturday. Holy Thursday commemorates the Last Supper and includes the ritual washing of feet, recalling how Jesus washed the feet of His 12 disciples at the Last Supper.

At the end of Mass, the faithful process with the Blessed Sacrament to an altar of repose instead of the church's tabernacle. This recalls Jesus going to pray in the Garden of Gethsemane on the Mount of Olives before being arrested.

On Good Friday, the liturgy is very solemn as the faithful remember and mourn Jesus' death. The Passion narrative is read from the Gospel of John and parishioners have the opportunity to reverence the Cross.

SAGINAW— The Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, was present at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw where the Rev. Andy Booms, cathedral rector, led the faithful in the solemn liturgy of the Lord's Passion on Good Friday, March 25. The crucifixion and death of Our Lord is remembered as the faithful gather to venerate the cross and hear the Gospel of John's account of Christ’s Passion. By adoring the Holy Cross, the faithful are reverencing the instrument by which Christ won our salvation.

During the veneration, the choir chanted the Reproaches: "My people, What have I done to you? How have I hurt you? Answer me! I led you out of Egypt; but you led your Savior to the Cross. For forty years I led you safely through the desert, I fed you with manna from heaven, and brought you to the land of plenty; But you led your Savior to the Cross. O, My people! What have I done to you that you should testify against me?"

Mass is not celebrated on Good Friday, but the faithful may receive the Eucharist in the species of bread that was consecrated during the Holy Thursday Mass. The church is instead stripped of all decoration, and the doors of the tabernacle are left open for this day of mourning as we remember Christ's death. SAGINAW— The Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, was present at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw where the Rev. Andy Booms, cathedral rector, led the faithful in the solemn liturgy of the Lord's Passion on Good Friday, March 25. The crucifixion and death of Our Lord is remembered as the faithful gather to venerate the cross and hear the Gospel of John's account of Christ’s Passion. By adoring the Holy Cross, the faithful are reverencing the instrument by which Christ won our salvation.

During the veneration, the choir chanted the Reproaches: "My people, What have I done to you? How have I hurt you? Answer me! I led you out of Egypt; but you led your Savior to the Cross. For forty years I led you safely through the desert, I fed you with manna from heaven, and brought you to the land of plenty; But you led your Savior to the Cross. O, My people! What have I done to you that you should testify against me?"

Mass is not celebrated on Good Friday, but the faithful may receive the Eucharist in the species of bread that was consecrated during the Holy Thursday Mass. The church is instead stripped of all decoration, and the doors of the tabernacle are left open for this day of mourning as we remember Christ's death. The Easter Vigil is celebrated on Holy Saturday at sundown. It begins with the blessing of the Easter Fire, which is used to light the Paschal Candle that symbolizes the Light of Christ. The candle is used to light the faithful's candles as the process into the cathedral. As Scripture readings tell the story of salvation from the creation of the world through the Gospel account of the Resurrection, the lights are gradually turned on.

SAGINAW— The Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated the Easter Vigil Mass on Saturday, March 26, with the Rev. Andrew Booms at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw.

The Easter Vigil is a joyful night-watch by Christians who have gathered to celebrate the most important feast in the life of the Church – the Resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

The Vigil Mass begins outdoors with the blessing of the Easter fire. It is during the Vigil that more than 200 people across the diocese and thousands more around the world will join the Catholic Church as they receive the sacraments of baptism, confirmation and first Eucharist. SAGINAW— The Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated the Easter Vigil Mass on Saturday, March 26, with the Rev. Andrew Booms at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw.

The Easter Vigil is a joyful night-watch by Christians who have gathered to celebrate the most important feast in the life of the Church – the Resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

The Vigil Mass begins outdoors with the blessing of the Easter fire. It is during the Vigil that more than 200 people across the diocese and thousands more around the world will join the Catholic Church as they receive the sacraments of baptism, confirmation and first Eucharist. SAGINAW— The Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated the Easter Vigil Mass on Saturday, March 26, with the Rev. Andrew Booms at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw.

The Easter Vigil is a joyful night-watch by Christians who have gathered to celebrate the most important feast in the life of the Church – the Resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

The Vigil Mass begins outdoors with the blessing of the Easter fire. It is during the Vigil that more than 200 people across the diocese and thousands more around the world will join the Catholic Church as they receive the sacraments of baptism, confirmation and first Eucharist. SAGINAW— The Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated the Easter Vigil Mass on Saturday, March 26, with the Rev. Andrew Booms at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw.

The Easter Vigil is a joyful night-watch by Christians who have gathered to celebrate the most important feast in the life of the Church – the Resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

The Vigil Mass begins outdoors with the blessing of the Easter fire. It is during the Vigil that more than 200 people across the diocese and thousands more around the world will join the Catholic Church as they receive the sacraments of baptism, confirmation and first Eucharist. SAGINAW— The Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated the Easter Vigil Mass on Saturday, March 26, with the Rev. Andrew Booms at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw.

The Easter Vigil is a joyful night-watch by Christians who have gathered to celebrate the most important feast in the life of the Church – the Resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

The Vigil Mass begins outdoors with the blessing of the Easter fire. It is during the Vigil that more than 200 people across the diocese and thousands more around the world will join the Catholic Church as they receive the sacraments of baptism, confirmation and first Eucharist. SAGINAW— The Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated the Easter Vigil Mass on Saturday, March 26, with the Rev. Andrew Booms at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw.

The Easter Vigil is a joyful night-watch by Christians who have gathered to celebrate the most important feast in the life of the Church – the Resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

The Vigil Mass begins outdoors with the blessing of the Easter fire. It is during the Vigil that more than 200 people across the diocese and thousands more around the world will join the Catholic Church as they receive the sacraments of baptism, confirmation and first Eucharist. Finally, Easter Sunday:  the joyful celebration of Jesus' Resurrection! The Cathedral was packed and I must admit I enjoyed seeing all the sweet little ones. Bishop Cistone invited them all up to the front for a little while, but when it was time to return to their seats, one little girl wanted to stay.

Easter Sunday Mass at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption, March 28, 2016

Easter Sunday Mass, like the vigil the night before, includes blessings with incense and holy water.
Easter Sunday Mass at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption, March 28, 2016 Easter Sunday Mass at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption, March 28, 2016 Easter Sunday Mass at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption, March 28, 2016

We have three little houseplants (orchid, African violet and some ivy) but there's nothing quite like being surrounded by beautiful growing things. Maybe I think that because I grew up on a farm. 

On Monday, President's Day, neither my husband nor I were working, so we decided to take a day trip down to Detroit to visit a couple museums. While on Belle Isle (which is lovely) we visited the conservatory, an activity neither of us had done.

Often, when I'm going somewhere I know I'll want to make photos but prefer to have something smaller than my work camera, I make my Fuji X100S. That's what I did with these photographs as I captured some of my favorite colors, patterns and textures. 

CactusCactus Pink Poof Blue flower Shades of Violet Ruffled StemPlant with ruffed stem. Belle Isle Conservatory

My friends Jamie and Mike had their first baby, a son, on Jan. 27. I was so thrilled to get to photograph the little guy at 10 days old— a great age for sweet, sleepy newborn photography.

Are you ready to swoon?

Baby H. was actually snoring during this photo— the tiniest, funniest little snores. It was all I could do to not burst out laughing!

And that BOW TIE! How dapper! :)

Newborn photography is radically different from other lifestyle or posed portraiture. Baby determines everything! There are all kinds of tricks and methods, but if baby is hungry, needs a diaper change, or simply wants to be held, that's what you do. Patience is key. I was able to capture this lovely moment while Hunter was awake; most of the session, he was asleep (which was great!) He was a very sound sleeper as I gently moved him from pose to pose.

And of course, you can't have a little boy named "Hunter" without taking some hunting-themed photographs! This one was actually his daddy's idea (though it may have been inspired by wanting to show off his deer and his baby at the same time!)

Sister Julie Gatza honored by Bay City mayor

Sister Julie Gatza honored by Bay City mayor

The Diocese of Saginaw sent me to the National Catholic Youth Conference along with about 100 high schoolers to document their experience. The event featured musical performers, including For King and Country and Matt Maher, dynamic speakers and breakout sessions, Mass and other sacramental opportunities. Diocese of Saginaw high schoolers at National Catholic Youth Conference Diocese of Saginaw high schoolers at National Catholic Youth Conference Diocese of Saginaw high schoolers at National Catholic Youth Conference Diocese of Saginaw high schoolers at National Catholic Youth Conference Diocese of Saginaw high schoolers at National Catholic Youth Conference Holy Door opens in CathedralThe Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, opened the Holy Door at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw on Sunday, Dec. 13. The door will remain open through the Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy.

Photos by Jamie & Sarah of Grand Rapids, Mich.

Grand Rapids Wedding Photographers. Destination wedding photographers. Grand Rapids Wedding Photographers. Destination wedding photographers. Grand Rapids Wedding Photographers. Destination wedding photographers.

One week later, we embarked on a seven-night Caribbean cruise with ports in Labadee, Haiti; Falmouth, Jamaica; Georgetown, Grand Cayman; and Cozúmel, Mexico. We had an amazing fun time relaxing and swimming in Haiti, exploring Jamaica's Green Grotto Caves and Dunns River Falls, kayaking and snorkeling in Grand Cayman and touring the ancient Mayan city of Tulum.

I hope you enjoy this selection of photographs from our adventure! 

Selfie while kayakingMy husband and I went kayaking in Grand Cayman on our honeymoon. Snorkeling in Grand CaymanA guide dives nearer the coral at the Governor's Reef in Grand Cayman. StingrayA stingray swims behind a fish near the Governor's Reef in Grand Cayman.

Young Adult Pilgrimage to the World Meeting of Families in PhiladelphiaPHILADELPHIA— A group of 50 pilgrims, led by Father Andy Booms and Father Andrew LaFramboise, traveled to the World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia last weekend.

The pilgrims, college students from Saginaw Valley State University, Central Michigan University and Delta College, departed from Our Lady of Czestochowa Parish/St. Hyacinth Church in Bay City at 2:30 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 25, along with a group from All Saints Central and Nouvel Catholic Central high schools. They stayed at Camp Saginaw in Oxford, Pa., which was set up for pilgrims and offered Mass, entertainment and speakers from the Culture Project, an organization that encourages virtue and the dignity of the human person.

On Saturday and Sunday, the pilgrims were bussed to the Philadelphia Sports Complex to ride the subway to the festival grounds, where they were able to watch the Holy Father celebrate Mass at the Cathedral Basilica of Ss. Peter and Paul via large screens set up along the roads. The Festival of Families throughout the afternoon included many performances from dance companies, entertainers and musicians from around the world.

Pilgrims were able to catch a glimpse of His Holiness, Pope Francis, as he paraded through the festival grounds in his popemobile, arriving at the main stage at the Eakins Oval at the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The culmination of the event included six families from different continents sharing their experiences of family, punctuated by musical performances.

The pontiff then began a prepared speech, then opted to share his thoughts extemporaneously about the family in Spanish with a translator.

"The most beautiful thing that God did, the Bible says, was the family," he said.

"God's love is so overflowing that it could not be egoistic, it had to be poured out of Him," he said, explaining that this led to all of creation. "Family is really family when it is able to open its arms and receive all that love."

Sunday, the group again traveled to Philadelphia, where some pilgrims opted to visit the National Shrine of St. Rita of Cascia, while others staked out a location for the Papal Mass that afternoon.

The million attendees were able to watch the Holy Father's remarks at the Curran-Fromhold Correctional Facility and were able to enjoy musical performances via the large screens and speakers set up throughout the area.

Before Mass, the pontiff again paraded in the popemobile, smiling and waving and sometimes stopping to bless or kiss individuals. During the two-hour Solemn Mass celebrated by Pope Francis, faithful from more than 100 countries joined in prayer and song.

In his homily, Pope Francis tied the love of family and the love of God.

"Faith opens a 'window' to the presence and working of the Spirit. It shows us that, like happiness, holiness is always tied to little gestures," he said. "These little gestures are those we learn at home, in the family; they get lost amid all the other things we do, yet they do make each day different. They are the quiet things done by mothers and grandmothers, by fathers and grandfathers, by children. They are little signs of tenderness, affection and compassion. Like the warm supper we look forward to at night, the early lunch awaiting someone who gets up early to go to work. Homely gestures."

Following Mass, the pilgrims departed Philadelphia, eagerly recounting their own personal experience seeing the Holy Father and participating in Mass with so many Catholics of different cultures.

The group returned to Bay City around 9:30 on Monday morning, thankful that each individual had the opportunity to see and encounter Pope Francis.

More videos, images, and stories are available at www.saginaw.org. If you would like to see more posts like this, please "like" the diocese's Facebook page. Young Adult Pilgrimage to the World Meeting of Families in PhiladelphiaPHILADELPHIA— A group of 50 pilgrims, led by Father Andy Booms and Father Andrew LaFramboise, traveled to the World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia last weekend.

The pilgrims, college students from Saginaw Valley State University, Central Michigan University and Delta College, departed from Our Lady of Czestochowa Parish/St. Hyacinth Church in Bay City at 2:30 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 25, along with a group from All Saints Central and Nouvel Catholic Central high schools. They stayed at Camp Saginaw in Oxford, Pa., which was set up for pilgrims and offered Mass, entertainment and speakers from the Culture Project, an organization that encourages virtue and the dignity of the human person.

On Saturday and Sunday, the pilgrims were bussed to the Philadelphia Sports Complex to ride the subway to the festival grounds, where they were able to watch the Holy Father celebrate Mass at the Cathedral Basilica of Ss. Peter and Paul via large screens set up along the roads. The Festival of Families throughout the afternoon included many performances from dance companies, entertainers and musicians from around the world.

Pilgrims were able to catch a glimpse of His Holiness, Pope Francis, as he paraded through the festival grounds in his popemobile, arriving at the main stage at the Eakins Oval at the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The culmination of the event included six families from different continents sharing their experiences of family, punctuated by musical performances.

The pontiff then began a prepared speech, then opted to share his thoughts extemporaneously about the family in Spanish with a translator.

"The most beautiful thing that God did, the Bible says, was the family," he said.

"God's love is so overflowing that it could not be egoistic, it had to be poured out of Him," he said, explaining that this led to all of creation. "Family is really family when it is able to open its arms and receive all that love."

Sunday, the group again traveled to Philadelphia, where some pilgrims opted to visit the National Shrine of St. Rita of Cascia, while others staked out a location for the Papal Mass that afternoon.

The million attendees were able to watch the Holy Father's remarks at the Curran-Fromhold Correctional Facility and were able to enjoy musical performances via the large screens and speakers set up throughout the area.

Before Mass, the pontiff again paraded in the popemobile, smiling and waving and sometimes stopping to bless or kiss individuals. During the two-hour Solemn Mass celebrated by Pope Francis, faithful from more than 100 countries joined in prayer and song.

In his homily, Pope Francis tied the love of family and the love of God.

"Faith opens a 'window' to the presence and working of the Spirit. It shows us that, like happiness, holiness is always tied to little gestures," he said. "These little gestures are those we learn at home, in the family; they get lost amid all the other things we do, yet they do make each day different. They are the quiet things done by mothers and grandmothers, by fathers and grandfathers, by children. They are little signs of tenderness, affection and compassion. Like the warm supper we look forward to at night, the early lunch awaiting someone who gets up early to go to work. Homely gestures."

Following Mass, the pilgrims departed Philadelphia, eagerly recounting their own personal experience seeing the Holy Father and participating in Mass with so many Catholics of different cultures.

The group returned to Bay City around 9:30 on Monday morning, thankful that each individual had the opportunity to see and encounter Pope Francis.

More videos, images, and stories are available at www.saginaw.org. If you would like to see more posts like this, please "like" the diocese's Facebook page. Young Adult Pilgrimage to the World Meeting of Families in PhiladelphiaPHILADELPHIA— A group of 50 pilgrims, led by Father Andy Booms and Father Andrew LaFramboise, traveled to the World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia last weekend.

The pilgrims, college students from Saginaw Valley State University, Central Michigan University and Delta College, departed from Our Lady of Czestochowa Parish/St. Hyacinth Church in Bay City at 2:30 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 25, along with a group from All Saints Central and Nouvel Catholic Central high schools. They stayed at Camp Saginaw in Oxford, Pa., which was set up for pilgrims and offered Mass, entertainment and speakers from the Culture Project, an organization that encourages virtue and the dignity of the human person.

On Saturday and Sunday, the pilgrims were bussed to the Philadelphia Sports Complex to ride the subway to the festival grounds, where they were able to watch the Holy Father celebrate Mass at the Cathedral Basilica of Ss. Peter and Paul via large screens set up along the roads. The Festival of Families throughout the afternoon included many performances from dance companies, entertainers and musicians from around the world.

Pilgrims were able to catch a glimpse of His Holiness, Pope Francis, as he paraded through the festival grounds in his popemobile, arriving at the main stage at the Eakins Oval at the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The culmination of the event included six families from different continents sharing their experiences of family, punctuated by musical performances.

The pontiff then began a prepared speech, then opted to share his thoughts extemporaneously about the family in Spanish with a translator.

"The most beautiful thing that God did, the Bible says, was the family," he said.

"God's love is so overflowing that it could not be egoistic, it had to be poured out of Him," he said, explaining that this led to all of creation. "Family is really family when it is able to open its arms and receive all that love."

Sunday, the group again traveled to Philadelphia, where some pilgrims opted to visit the National Shrine of St. Rita of Cascia, while others staked out a location for the Papal Mass that afternoon.

The million attendees were able to watch the Holy Father's remarks at the Curran-Fromhold Correctional Facility and were able to enjoy musical performances via the large screens and speakers set up throughout the area.

Before Mass, the pontiff again paraded in the popemobile, smiling and waving and sometimes stopping to bless or kiss individuals. During the two-hour Solemn Mass celebrated by Pope Francis, faithful from more than 100 countries joined in prayer and song.

In his homily, Pope Francis tied the love of family and the love of God.

"Faith opens a 'window' to the presence and working of the Spirit. It shows us that, like happiness, holiness is always tied to little gestures," he said. "These little gestures are those we learn at home, in the family; they get lost amid all the other things we do, yet they do make each day different. They are the quiet things done by mothers and grandmothers, by fathers and grandfathers, by children. They are little signs of tenderness, affection and compassion. Like the warm supper we look forward to at night, the early lunch awaiting someone who gets up early to go to work. Homely gestures."

Following Mass, the pilgrims departed Philadelphia, eagerly recounting their own personal experience seeing the Holy Father and participating in Mass with so many Catholics of different cultures.

The group returned to Bay City around 9:30 on Monday morning, thankful that each individual had the opportunity to see and encounter Pope Francis.

More videos, images, and stories are available at www.saginaw.org. If you would like to see more posts like this, please "like" the diocese's Facebook page. Young Adult Pilgrimage to the World Meeting of Families in PhiladelphiaPHILADELPHIA— A group of 50 pilgrims, led by Father Andy Booms and Father Andrew LaFramboise, traveled to the World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia last weekend.

The pilgrims, college students from Saginaw Valley State University, Central Michigan University and Delta College, departed from Our Lady of Czestochowa Parish/St. Hyacinth Church in Bay City at 2:30 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 25, along with a group from All Saints Central and Nouvel Catholic Central high schools. They stayed at Camp Saginaw in Oxford, Pa., which was set up for pilgrims and offered Mass, entertainment and speakers from the Culture Project, an organization that encourages virtue and the dignity of the human person.

On Saturday and Sunday, the pilgrims were bussed to the Philadelphia Sports Complex to ride the subway to the festival grounds, where they were able to watch the Holy Father celebrate Mass at the Cathedral Basilica of Ss. Peter and Paul via large screens set up along the roads. The Festival of Families throughout the afternoon included many performances from dance companies, entertainers and musicians from around the world.

Pilgrims were able to catch a glimpse of His Holiness, Pope Francis, as he paraded through the festival grounds in his popemobile, arriving at the main stage at the Eakins Oval at the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The culmination of the event included six families from different continents sharing their experiences of family, punctuated by musical performances.

The pontiff then began a prepared speech, then opted to share his thoughts extemporaneously about the family in Spanish with a translator.

"The most beautiful thing that God did, the Bible says, was the family," he said.

"God's love is so overflowing that it could not be egoistic, it had to be poured out of Him," he said, explaining that this led to all of creation. "Family is really family when it is able to open its arms and receive all that love."

Sunday, the group again traveled to Philadelphia, where some pilgrims opted to visit the National Shrine of St. Rita of Cascia, while others staked out a location for the Papal Mass that afternoon.

The million attendees were able to watch the Holy Father's remarks at the Curran-Fromhold Correctional Facility and were able to enjoy musical performances via the large screens and speakers set up throughout the area.

Before Mass, the pontiff again paraded in the popemobile, smiling and waving and sometimes stopping to bless or kiss individuals. During the two-hour Solemn Mass celebrated by Pope Francis, faithful from more than 100 countries joined in prayer and song.

In his homily, Pope Francis tied the love of family and the love of God.

"Faith opens a 'window' to the presence and working of the Spirit. It shows us that, like happiness, holiness is always tied to little gestures," he said. "These little gestures are those we learn at home, in the family; they get lost amid all the other things we do, yet they do make each day different. They are the quiet things done by mothers and grandmothers, by fathers and grandfathers, by children. They are little signs of tenderness, affection and compassion. Like the warm supper we look forward to at night, the early lunch awaiting someone who gets up early to go to work. Homely gestures."

Following Mass, the pilgrims departed Philadelphia, eagerly recounting their own personal experience seeing the Holy Father and participating in Mass with so many Catholics of different cultures.

The group returned to Bay City around 9:30 on Monday morning, thankful that each individual had the opportunity to see and encounter Pope Francis.

More videos, images, and stories are available at www.saginaw.org. If you would like to see more posts like this, please "like" the diocese's Facebook page. Young Adult Pilgrimage to the World Meeting of Families in PhiladelphiaPHILADELPHIA— A group of 50 pilgrims, led by Father Andy Booms and Father Andrew LaFramboise, traveled to the World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia last weekend.

The pilgrims, college students from Saginaw Valley State University, Central Michigan University and Delta College, departed from Our Lady of Czestochowa Parish/St. Hyacinth Church in Bay City at 2:30 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 25, along with a group from All Saints Central and Nouvel Catholic Central high schools. They stayed at Camp Saginaw in Oxford, Pa., which was set up for pilgrims and offered Mass, entertainment and speakers from the Culture Project, an organization that encourages virtue and the dignity of the human person.

On Saturday and Sunday, the pilgrims were bussed to the Philadelphia Sports Complex to ride the subway to the festival grounds, where they were able to watch the Holy Father celebrate Mass at the Cathedral Basilica of Ss. Peter and Paul via large screens set up along the roads. The Festival of Families throughout the afternoon included many performances from dance companies, entertainers and musicians from around the world.

Pilgrims were able to catch a glimpse of His Holiness, Pope Francis, as he paraded through the festival grounds in his popemobile, arriving at the main stage at the Eakins Oval at the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The culmination of the event included six families from different continents sharing their experiences of family, punctuated by musical performances.

The pontiff then began a prepared speech, then opted to share his thoughts extemporaneously about the family in Spanish with a translator.

"The most beautiful thing that God did, the Bible says, was the family," he said.

"God's love is so overflowing that it could not be egoistic, it had to be poured out of Him," he said, explaining that this led to all of creation. "Family is really family when it is able to open its arms and receive all that love."

Sunday, the group again traveled to Philadelphia, where some pilgrims opted to visit the National Shrine of St. Rita of Cascia, while others staked out a location for the Papal Mass that afternoon.

The million attendees were able to watch the Holy Father's remarks at the Curran-Fromhold Correctional Facility and were able to enjoy musical performances via the large screens and speakers set up throughout the area.

Before Mass, the pontiff again paraded in the popemobile, smiling and waving and sometimes stopping to bless or kiss individuals. During the two-hour Solemn Mass celebrated by Pope Francis, faithful from more than 100 countries joined in prayer and song.

In his homily, Pope Francis tied the love of family and the love of God.

"Faith opens a 'window' to the presence and working of the Spirit. It shows us that, like happiness, holiness is always tied to little gestures," he said. "These little gestures are those we learn at home, in the family; they get lost amid all the other things we do, yet they do make each day different. They are the quiet things done by mothers and grandmothers, by fathers and grandfathers, by children. They are little signs of tenderness, affection and compassion. Like the warm supper we look forward to at night, the early lunch awaiting someone who gets up early to go to work. Homely gestures."

Following Mass, the pilgrims departed Philadelphia, eagerly recounting their own personal experience seeing the Holy Father and participating in Mass with so many Catholics of different cultures.

The group returned to Bay City around 9:30 on Monday morning, thankful that each individual had the opportunity to see and encounter Pope Francis.

More videos, images, and stories are available at www.saginaw.org. If you would like to see more posts like this, please "like" the diocese's Facebook page.

My fiancé Jeff and I drove out to Fish Point State Wildlife Refuge, near Unionville, to a dock away from city lights.

The sunset was gorgeous. We arranged some cushions and blankets in the bed of his truck and settled down to wait for the lights.

One hour passed, the stars began to shine as the sky got darker. We kept looking north, hoping for some glimmer of color. I shot some frames of the starry night sky.

Two hours passed. There was a faint, faint glow on the northern horizon, but no real lights like we hoped. I kept checking NOAA's aurora predictions; north of us would be able to see the lights straight above them. Theoretically, we had the possibility of seeing them lower on the horizon.

After three and a half hours, we were dozing off and, it seemed, no closer to getting to see the aurora. We went home. 

As I was looking through the photos, however, I discovered something amazing. Those 15- and 30-second exposures, which can of course capture more than the naked eye can see, revealed that the aurora was in fact visible!

Aurora BorealisThe Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, as seen from Fish Point State Wildlife Area near Unionville, Mich., on June 24. © Danielle McGrew 2015

Freeland Walleye FestivalDANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Pam Budzinski of Freeland shows Lilly Gonzales,7, how to cast during the kids' pond fishing competition at the Freeland Walleye Festival at Tittabawassee Township Park on Saturday.
Lilly Gonzales said she was having fun, even though they hadn't caught any fish. Freeland Walleye FestivalDANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Bailee Schultz, 11, prepares to net a rainbow trout caught by Chloe Ehmcke, 4, with a little help from Leonard Ehmcke as Mikawyla Ehmcke, 8, watches at the kids' fishing pond at Tittabawassee Township Park on Saturday. Mikayla said she and Chloe each caught three rainbow trout so far, and Bailee had caught two fish. Freeland Walleye FestivalDANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Fred Wahls of Freeland clips fishes' fins to ensure they are only weighed once at the weigh-in station at Tittabawssee Township Park during the Freeland Walleye Festival on Saturday. Each fisherman is allowed to weigh in four fish each day.
The festival, now in its 30th year, includes entertainment, a casino, car show, carnival rides, food and a fishing tournament. Freeland Walleye FestivalDANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Tyler Tomasek, 12, of Hemlock, moves walleye from his cooler to a basket to be weighed at Tittabawassee Township Park during the Freeland Walleye Festival on Saturday. Tomasek said he's been fishing for most of his life. Freeland Walleye FestivalDANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Tyler Tomasek, 12, of Hemlock picks up walleye by their gills after weighing them at Tittabawassee Township Park during the Freeland Walleye Festival on Saturday. The fishing tournament includes prizes for the most pounds for eight fish and the largest walleye. Freeland Walleye FestivalDANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Beau Deal of Freeland places walleye into a basket to be weighed at Tittabawassee Township Park during the Freeland Walleye Festival on Saturday. The festival, now in its 30th year, includes entertainment, a casino, car show, carnival rides, food and a fishing tournament. Freeland Walleye FestivalDANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Contestants fish for walleye from boats and along the shore of the Tittabawassee River on Saturday during the Freeland Walleye Festival. Participants can submit four fish each of the two days of the tournament and are competing for cash prizes and prize packages. Freeland Walleye FestivalDANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Tom Brown of Port Sanilac shows off the walleye he and his daughter Kylah caught along the Tittabawassee River during the Freeland Walleye Festivalon Saturday. Walleye, a predatory fish, range from 10 to 18 inches long and 1 to 3 or more pounds. They have small, sharp teeth and their eyes feature a reflective under layer that helps them see in murky water and reflects light in the dark. Freeland Walleye FestivalDANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Kylah Brown, 6, casts her pink fishing rod with her father, Tom Brown of Port Sanilac at Festival Park along the Tittabawassee River during the Freeland Walleye Festival on Saturday. Kylah had caught the first fish of the day out of their fishing group of family and friends. Tom Brown said it was his fifth year at the tournament, but the first time bringing Kylah.

Coffee and CanvasDANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Bullock Creek art teacher Dana Murray and senior Sandy Vercellino prepare paint cups for participants at "Coffee and Canvas," a fundraiser and awareness event for women about domestic abuse and human trafficking.
Coffee and Canvas offered a guided painting project and refreshments and raised $785, excluding additional donations during the event. Participants also learned about domestic violence and sex trafficking from a TED Talk and Bay Area Women's Center employee Jessica Behmlander.
"I'm proud of them," Murray said of the students who organized the event. "They've put quite a bit of thought into it." Coffee and CanvasDANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Barbara Ewerth of Midland paints a dandelion stem at "Coffee and Canvas," a fundraiser and awareness event at Bullock Creek High School for women about domestic abuse and human trafficking. Participants were guided in painting a dandelion with seeds blowing away, and between each step they learned about domestic issues, human sex trafficking, and what they can do to help. Coffee and CanvasDANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Kindra Krieslers of Saginaw paints dandelion seeds at "Coffee and Canvas" a fundraiser and awareness event at Bullock Creek High School for women about domestic abuse and human trafficking. Coffee and Canvas offered refreshments and a guided painting project and raised $785, excluding additional donations during the event.

"When you look at this flower, I hope you see the beauty and freedom that womenÑ and all peopleÑ deserve," said Sandy Vercellino, a Bullock Creek senior and one of the project's organizers.

Coffee and CanvasDANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Danielle Zieroff of Auburn laughs with Diana Onderick of Midland at "Coffee and Canvas" a fundraiser and awareness event at Bullock Creek High School for women about domestic abuse and human trafficking. Coffee and Canvas offered refreshments, education and a guided painting project and raised $785, excluding additional donations during the event. Max Griggs was honored for his 50 years as a volunteer with Midland's Little League baseball program. In that time, he has helped coach hundreds of boys. The organization is also nominating him for national recognition.

Little LeagueDANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Coach Max Griggs was honored for his 50 years as a volunteer for the Northeast Little League during the season's opening ceremonies at Plymouth Park in Midland on Saturday. Griggs was awarded a plaque and threw the ceremonial first pitch.
"I look forward to it every spring," Griggs said of the season. "I love the game of baseball and I love working with the kids." Little LeagueDANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Coach Max Griggs and his wife Helen Griggs look at the plaque presented to him for his 50 years as a volunteer for the Northeast Little League during the season's opening ceremonies at Plymouth Park in Midland on Saturday. Helen Griggs, who has been married to her husband for 57 years, said that he enjoys coaching and also cocker softball for two years before he began working with Little League.

Little LeagueDANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Coach Mike Grillo of Job Site Service coaches' pitch team shows Porter Wilson how to hold the bat during opening day for the Northeast Little League at Plymouth Park in Midland on Saturday. Little LeagueDANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Liam Roe of the Fisher Contracting coaches' pitch team focuses on his swing to hit the ball during opening day for the Northeast Little League at Plymouth Park in Midland on Saturday.

Palm Sunday at the Cathedral of Mary of the AssumptionThe Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated Mass on Palm Sunday, March 29, at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw.
Mass for Palm Sunday of the Lord's Passion begins with blessing of palm branches and the proclamation of the Gospel story of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem. The final Sunday during Lent marks the beginning of Holy Week, which includes Holy Thursday of the Lord's Supper, Good Friday of the Lord's Passion and ends Holy Saturday, when Christ's body lay in the tomb.
"Holy Week is all one event God planned," said the bishop in his homily. "On Palm Sunday, Jesus was going into Jerusalem, but He was also going to his Passion, death and resurrection."
"The Lord is inviting us to be part of Holy Week," Bishop Cistone concluded, "(and) to be a part of the paschal journey, that our own lives will mirror His."

For a schedule of Holy Week Masses and services, please visit www.saginaw.org Palm Sunday at the Cathedral of Mary of the AssumptionThe Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated Mass on Palm Sunday, March 29, at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw.
Mass for Palm Sunday of the Lord's Passion begins with blessing of palm branches and the proclamation of the Gospel story of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem. The final Sunday during Lent marks the beginning of Holy Week, which includes Holy Thursday of the Lord's Supper, Good Friday of the Lord's Passion and ends Holy Saturday, when Christ's body lay in the tomb.
"Holy Week is all one event God planned," said the bishop in his homily. "On Palm Sunday, Jesus was going into Jerusalem, but He was also going to his Passion, death and resurrection."
"The Lord is inviting us to be part of Holy Week," Bishop Cistone concluded, "(and) to be a part of the paschal journey, that our own lives will mirror His."

For a schedule of Holy Week Masses and services, please visit www.saginaw.org Palm Sunday at the Cathedral of Mary of the AssumptionThe Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated Mass on Palm Sunday, March 29, at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw.
Mass for Palm Sunday of the Lord's Passion begins with blessing of palm branches and the proclamation of the Gospel story of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem. The final Sunday during Lent marks the beginning of Holy Week, which includes Holy Thursday of the Lord's Supper, Good Friday of the Lord's Passion and ends Holy Saturday, when Christ's body lay in the tomb.
"Holy Week is all one event God planned," said the bishop in his homily. "On Palm Sunday, Jesus was going into Jerusalem, but He was also going to his Passion, death and resurrection."
"The Lord is inviting us to be part of Holy Week," Bishop Cistone concluded, "(and) to be a part of the paschal journey, that our own lives will mirror His."

For a schedule of Holy Week Masses and services, please visit www.saginaw.org Palm Sunday at the Cathedral of Mary of the AssumptionThe Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated Mass on Palm Sunday, March 29, at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw.
Mass for Palm Sunday of the Lord's Passion begins with blessing of palm branches and the proclamation of the Gospel story of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem. The final Sunday during Lent marks the beginning of Holy Week, which includes Holy Thursday of the Lord's Supper, Good Friday of the Lord's Passion and ends Holy Saturday, when Christ's body lay in the tomb.
"Holy Week is all one event God planned," said the bishop in his homily. "On Palm Sunday, Jesus was going into Jerusalem, but He was also going to his Passion, death and resurrection."
"The Lord is inviting us to be part of Holy Week," Bishop Cistone concluded, "(and) to be a part of the paschal journey, that our own lives will mirror His."

For a schedule of Holy Week Masses and services, please visit www.saginaw.org Palm Sunday at the Cathedral of Mary of the AssumptionThe Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated Mass on Palm Sunday, March 29, at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw.
Mass for Palm Sunday of the Lord's Passion begins with blessing of palm branches and the proclamation of the Gospel story of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem. The final Sunday during Lent marks the beginning of Holy Week, which includes Holy Thursday of the Lord's Supper, Good Friday of the Lord's Passion and ends Holy Saturday, when Christ's body lay in the tomb.
"Holy Week is all one event God planned," said the bishop in his homily. "On Palm Sunday, Jesus was going into Jerusalem, but He was also going to his Passion, death and resurrection."
"The Lord is inviting us to be part of Holy Week," Bishop Cistone concluded, "(and) to be a part of the paschal journey, that our own lives will mirror His."

For a schedule of Holy Week Masses and services, please visit www.saginaw.org Palm Sunday at the Cathedral of Mary of the AssumptionThe Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated Mass on Palm Sunday, March 29, at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw.
Mass for Palm Sunday of the Lord's Passion begins with blessing of palm branches and the proclamation of the Gospel story of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem. The final Sunday during Lent marks the beginning of Holy Week, which includes Holy Thursday of the Lord's Supper, Good Friday of the Lord's Passion and ends Holy Saturday, when Christ's body lay in the tomb.
"Holy Week is all one event God planned," said the bishop in his homily. "On Palm Sunday, Jesus was going into Jerusalem, but He was also going to his Passion, death and resurrection."
"The Lord is inviting us to be part of Holy Week," Bishop Cistone concluded, "(and) to be a part of the paschal journey, that our own lives will mirror His."

For a schedule of Holy Week Masses and services, please visit www.saginaw.org Palm Sunday at the Cathedral of Mary of the AssumptionThe Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated Mass on Palm Sunday, March 29, at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw.
Mass for Palm Sunday of the Lord's Passion begins with blessing of palm branches and the proclamation of the Gospel story of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem. The final Sunday during Lent marks the beginning of Holy Week, which includes Holy Thursday of the Lord's Supper, Good Friday of the Lord's Passion and ends Holy Saturday, when Christ's body lay in the tomb.
"Holy Week is all one event God planned," said the bishop in his homily. "On Palm Sunday, Jesus was going into Jerusalem, but He was also going to his Passion, death and resurrection."
"The Lord is inviting us to be part of Holy Week," Bishop Cistone concluded, "(and) to be a part of the paschal journey, that our own lives will mirror His."

For a schedule of Holy Week Masses and services, please visit www.saginaw.org Palm Sunday at the Cathedral of Mary of the AssumptionThe Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated Mass on Palm Sunday, March 29, at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw.
Mass for Palm Sunday of the Lord's Passion begins with blessing of palm branches and the proclamation of the Gospel story of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem. The final Sunday during Lent marks the beginning of Holy Week, which includes Holy Thursday of the Lord's Supper, Good Friday of the Lord's Passion and ends Holy Saturday, when Christ's body lay in the tomb.
"Holy Week is all one event God planned," said the bishop in his homily. "On Palm Sunday, Jesus was going into Jerusalem, but He was also going to his Passion, death and resurrection."
"The Lord is inviting us to be part of Holy Week," Bishop Cistone concluded, "(and) to be a part of the paschal journey, that our own lives will mirror His."

For a schedule of Holy Week Masses and services, please visit www.saginaw.org Palm Sunday at the Cathedral of Mary of the AssumptionThe Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated Mass on Palm Sunday, March 29, at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw.
Mass for Palm Sunday of the Lord's Passion begins with blessing of palm branches and the proclamation of the Gospel story of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem. The final Sunday during Lent marks the beginning of Holy Week, which includes Holy Thursday of the Lord's Supper, Good Friday of the Lord's Passion and ends Holy Saturday, when Christ's body lay in the tomb.
"Holy Week is all one event God planned," said the bishop in his homily. "On Palm Sunday, Jesus was going into Jerusalem, but He was also going to his Passion, death and resurrection."
"The Lord is inviting us to be part of Holy Week," Bishop Cistone concluded, "(and) to be a part of the paschal journey, that our own lives will mirror His."

For a schedule of Holy Week Masses and services, please visit www.saginaw.org

Holy Thursday: Mass of the Lord's SupperThe Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated Mass on Holy Thursday, April 2, at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw. On Holy Thursday, the institution of the Eucharist by Jesus Christ at the Last Supper — the First Mass in the Catholic tradition — is remembered in a special way. During the Mass, Bishop Cistone washed the feet of 12 parishioners, recalling the way Jesus washed the feet of the 12 Disciples at that meal.
Following Mass, a solemn procession brought the consecrated Hosts reserved for use at the Good Friday service to an altar of repose, where the Blessed Sacrament remained in a tabernacle.

For more information about Holy Week and parish schedules, please visit www.saginaw.org Holy Thursday: Mass of the Lord's SupperThe Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated Mass on Holy Thursday, April 2, at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw. On Holy Thursday, the institution of the Eucharist by Jesus Christ at the Last Supper — the First Mass in the Catholic tradition — is remembered in a special way. During the Mass, Bishop Cistone washed the feet of 12 parishioners, recalling the way Jesus washed the feet of the 12 Disciples at that meal.
Following Mass, a solemn procession brought the consecrated Hosts reserved for use at the Good Friday service to an altar of repose, where the Blessed Sacrament remained in a tabernacle.

For more information about Holy Week and parish schedules, please visit www.saginaw.org Holy Thursday: Mass of the Lord's SupperThe Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated Mass on Holy Thursday, April 2, at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw. On Holy Thursday, the institution of the Eucharist by Jesus Christ at the Last Supper — the First Mass in the Catholic tradition — is remembered in a special way. During the Mass, Bishop Cistone washed the feet of 12 parishioners, recalling the way Jesus washed the feet of the 12 Disciples at that meal.
Following Mass, a solemn procession brought the consecrated Hosts reserved for use at the Good Friday service to an altar of repose, where the Blessed Sacrament remained in a tabernacle.

For more information about Holy Week and parish schedules, please visit www.saginaw.org Holy Thursday: Mass of the Lord's SupperThe Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated Mass on Holy Thursday, April 2, at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw. On Holy Thursday, the institution of the Eucharist by Jesus Christ at the Last Supper — the First Mass in the Catholic tradition — is remembered in a special way. During the Mass, Bishop Cistone washed the feet of 12 parishioners, recalling the way Jesus washed the feet of the 12 Disciples at that meal.
Following Mass, a solemn procession brought the consecrated Hosts reserved for use at the Good Friday service to an altar of repose, where the Blessed Sacrament remained in a tabernacle.

For more information about Holy Week and parish schedules, please visit www.saginaw.org Good FridaySAGINAW— Hundreds of faithful gathered for the solemn liturgy of the Lord's Passion on Friday, April 3, at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw with the Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw. The crucifixion and death of Our Lord is remembered as the faithful gather to venerate the cross and hear the Gospel account of Christ’s Passion. By adoring the Holy Cross, the faithful are reverencing the instrument by which Christ won our salvation.

During the veneration, the choir chanted the Reproaches: "My people, What have I done to you? How have I hurt you? Answer me!
I led you out of Egypt; but you led your Savior to the Cross. For forty years I led you safely through the desert, I fed you with manna from heaven, and brought you to the land of plenty; But you led your Savior to the Cross. O, My people! What have I done to you that you should testify against me?"

Mass is not celebrated on Good Friday, but the faithful may receive the Eucharist in the species of bread that was consecrated during the Holy Thursday Mass. The church is instead stripped of all decoration, and the doors of the tabernacle are left open for this day of mourning as we remember Christ's death.

For more information about Holy Week and parish schedules, please visit www.saginaw.org Good FridaySAGINAW— Hundreds of faithful gathered for the solemn liturgy of the Lord's Passion on Friday, April 3, at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw with the Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw. The crucifixion and death of Our Lord is remembered as the faithful gather to venerate the cross and hear the Gospel account of Christ’s Passion. By adoring the Holy Cross, the faithful are reverencing the instrument by which Christ won our salvation.

During the veneration, the choir chanted the Reproaches: "My people, What have I done to you? How have I hurt you? Answer me!
I led you out of Egypt; but you led your Savior to the Cross. For forty years I led you safely through the desert, I fed you with manna from heaven, and brought you to the land of plenty; But you led your Savior to the Cross. O, My people! What have I done to you that you should testify against me?"

Mass is not celebrated on Good Friday, but the faithful may receive the Eucharist in the species of bread that was consecrated during the Holy Thursday Mass. The church is instead stripped of all decoration, and the doors of the tabernacle are left open for this day of mourning as we remember Christ's death.

For more information about Holy Week and parish schedules, please visit www.saginaw.org Good FridaySAGINAW— Hundreds of faithful gathered for the solemn liturgy of the Lord's Passion on Friday, April 3, at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw with the Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw. The crucifixion and death of Our Lord is remembered as the faithful gather to venerate the cross and hear the Gospel account of Christ’s Passion. By adoring the Holy Cross, the faithful are reverencing the instrument by which Christ won our salvation.

During the veneration, the choir chanted the Reproaches: "My people, What have I done to you? How have I hurt you? Answer me!
I led you out of Egypt; but you led your Savior to the Cross. For forty years I led you safely through the desert, I fed you with manna from heaven, and brought you to the land of plenty; But you led your Savior to the Cross. O, My people! What have I done to you that you should testify against me?"

Mass is not celebrated on Good Friday, but the faithful may receive the Eucharist in the species of bread that was consecrated during the Holy Thursday Mass. The church is instead stripped of all decoration, and the doors of the tabernacle are left open for this day of mourning as we remember Christ's death.

For more information about Holy Week and parish schedules, please visit www.saginaw.org Easter Vigil Mass at the CathedralSAGINAW— The Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated the Easter Vigil Mass on Saturday, April 4, with the Rev. Andrew Boons at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw.

The Easter Vigil is a joyful night-watch by Christians who have gathered to celebrate the most important feast in the life of the Church – the Resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

The Vigil Mass begins outdoors with the blessing of the Easter fire. It is during the Vigil that more than 200 people across the diocese and thousands more around the world will join the Catholic Church as they receive the sacraments of baptism, confirmation and first Eucharist. Easter Vigil Mass at the CathedralSAGINAW— The Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated the Easter Vigil Mass on Saturday, April 4, with the Rev. Andrew Boons at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw.

The Easter Vigil is a joyful night-watch by Christians who have gathered to celebrate the most important feast in the life of the Church – the Resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

The Vigil Mass begins outdoors with the blessing of the Easter fire. It is during the Vigil that more than 200 people across the diocese and thousands more around the world will join the Catholic Church as they receive the sacraments of baptism, confirmation and first Eucharist. Easter Vigil Mass at the CathedralSAGINAW— The Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated the Easter Vigil Mass on Saturday, April 4, with the Rev. Andrew Boons at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw.

The Easter Vigil is a joyful night-watch by Christians who have gathered to celebrate the most important feast in the life of the Church – the Resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

The Vigil Mass begins outdoors with the blessing of the Easter fire. It is during the Vigil that more than 200 people across the diocese and thousands more around the world will join the Catholic Church as they receive the sacraments of baptism, confirmation and first Eucharist. Easter Vigil Mass at the CathedralSAGINAW— The Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated the Easter Vigil Mass on Saturday, April 4, with the Rev. Andrew Boons at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw.

The Easter Vigil is a joyful night-watch by Christians who have gathered to celebrate the most important feast in the life of the Church – the Resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

The Vigil Mass begins outdoors with the blessing of the Easter fire. It is during the Vigil that more than 200 people across the diocese and thousands more around the world will join the Catholic Church as they receive the sacraments of baptism, confirmation and first Eucharist. Easter Vigil Mass at the CathedralSAGINAW— The Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated the Easter Vigil Mass on Saturday, April 4, with the Rev. Andrew Boons at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw.

The Easter Vigil is a joyful night-watch by Christians who have gathered to celebrate the most important feast in the life of the Church – the Resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

The Vigil Mass begins outdoors with the blessing of the Easter fire. It is during the Vigil that more than 200 people across the diocese and thousands more around the world will join the Catholic Church as they receive the sacraments of baptism, confirmation and first Eucharist. Easter SundaySAGINAW— The Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated Mass on Easter Sunday, April 5, with the Rev. Andrew Boons at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw. On Easter Sunday, Christians celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus. The Gospel account of the encounter of the first Christians with Our Risen Lord and his empty tomb is read during Mass. Easter SundaySAGINAW— The Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated Mass on Easter Sunday, April 5, with the Rev. Andrew Boons at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw. On Easter Sunday, Christians celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus. The Gospel account of the encounter of the first Christians with Our Risen Lord and his empty tomb is read during Mass.

The indoor event included dozens of bulls and riders from around the U.S. and Canada. 

PBR Great Lakes Invitational bull ridingDANIELLE MCGREW | for the Daily News
Jesse Fischer of Roanoke, Ill., tries to stay on Little Air during the first ride of the night at the PBR Great Lakes Invitational at the Dow Event Center in Saginaw on Saturday. PBR Great Lakes Invitational bull ridingDANIELLE MCGREW | for the Daily News
Wade Phelps of Roanoke, Ill., falls off of Crooked Face at the PBR Great Lakes Invitational at the Dow Event Center in Saginaw on Saturday. According to the Professional Bull Riders' rules, the clock begins when the bull's shoulder passes the gate and stops when the rider's hand comes out of the rope, his free arm touches the bull or he hits the ground.

Of course, I shot plenty of "regular" sports as well, as the winter season wound down: Valley Championships- Boys Swimming and DivingDANIELLE MCGREW | for the Daily News
Dow freshman Grant Ostergaard swims in the 200-yard freestyle at the Boys Valley Swimming and Diving Championship Meet at Saginaw Valley State University on Saturday. Valley Championships- Boys Swimming and DivingDANIELLE MCGREW | for the Daily News
Bay City Western senior Jonah O'Laughlin, right, hugs Dow junior Kevin White, after they qualified for the state championships in the 200-yard freestyle at the Boys Valley Swimming and Diving Championship Meet at Saginaw Valley State University on Saturday. Wrestling at Meridian HighDANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Meridian's C.J. Johnson tries to pin Farwell's Shane Wiley during a meet at Meridian High School in Sanford on Wednesday. Farwell won the meet after a tie-breaker. Wrestling at Meridian HighDANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Meridian's Jess Levier attempts a reversal against Farwell's Garrett McQuiston during a meet at Meridian High School in Sanford on Wednesday. Farwell won the meet after a tie-breaker. Midland High School versus Bay City Western girls basketballDANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Bay City Western junior Brooke Fielder grabs a rebound during a game at Midland High School on Tuesday. Meridian hosts Clare girls basketballDANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Meridian senior Sarah Stockford and Clare junior Molly Merillat try to get to the ball before it goes out of bounds at Meridian High School in Sanford on Thursday. Clare senior Kenzie Humprey, Meridian senior Kaylee Bremer and Clare junior Jocy Fogle watch the action. Meridian hosts Clare girls basketballDANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Meridiansenior Sarah Stockford goes for a layup during a game against Clare at Meridian High School in Sanford on Thursday. The Clare Pioneers beat the Mustangs 62-42. Midland High hosts Flint NorthwesternDANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Midland junior Virgil Walker prepares to pass the ball as Flint Northwestern sophomore Troy Brown, left, and senior Deonte Hopkins guard him at Midland High School on Tuesday. Midland High hosts Flint NorthwesternDANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Midland freshman Martin Money guards Flint Northwestern sophomore Troy Brown as Chemics Coach Eric Krause shouts plays behind them at Midland High School on Tuesday.

All these photos were taken on a Fuji X100S.

Congress HotelCongress Hotel, Chicago.
February 2015. Chicago Skyline, Viewed from Navy PierChicago Skyline, as seen from Navy Pier.
February 2015. Ice Skating in Millennium ParkMillennium Park.
Chicago, February 2015. Millennium ParkMillennium Park.
Chicago, February 2015. At the BeanMillennium Park.
Chicago, February 2015. (Mandatory "tourist shot")
Chicago ColorsChicago
February 2015.

Our day at the aquarium:

SeahorseAuburn Hills.
February 2015. Seahorses look really weird/alien up close! Aquarium SceneAuburn Hills.
February 2015. TurtleAuburn Hills.
February 2015. JellyfishAuburn Hills.
February 2015. Lobster and Horsehoe CrabAuburn Hills.
February 2015. SwimmingAuburn Hills.
February 2015.

Midland versus Dow hockey, Dec. 17DANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Midland junior Jacob Coffey tries to avoid Dow junior Alex Farrell during a game at the Midland Civic Arena on Wednesday.

Midland versus Dow hockey, Dec. 17DANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
The crowd and Dow junior Alex Farrell react as Dow junior Cay Wagner and Midland sophomore Gregory Landis struggle to get up after a collision during a game at the Midland Civic Arena on Wednesday.

Midland versus Dow hockey, Dec. 17DANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Midland goalkeeper Weondong Hwang tries to get the puck as Dow junior Cay Wagner tries to free in from under a teammate's stick during a game at the Midland Civic Arena on Wednesday.

Human foosballDANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Refoos to Lose team member Ashton Lachner kicks the ball while sharing a rod with teammates Rebeccah Keller and Nick Hohler during a human foosball tournament presented by Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Great Lakes Bay Region on Wednesday. The tournament was part of the Midnight on Main New Year's Eve event.

Midland, Dow and Bay City Western wrestlingDANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Midland's Zach Schneider tries to pin Dow's Connor Moe at H.H. Dow High School in Midland on Wednesday. Midland, Dow and Bay City Western wrestlingDANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Midland's Jacob Hine wrestles with Western's Chris Schoenherr at H.H. Dow High School in Midland on Wednesday.

Christmas party/holiday dance for the ARC of Midland

Arc holiday dance, Dec. 18DANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Andy Young dances and claps his hands at the annual holiday dance hosted by People First of Midland, part of the Arc of Midland, on Thursday at the Great Hall. Arc holiday dance, Dec. 18DANIELLE McGREW | for the Daily News
Barb McGee twirls Megan Moreno, left, and Mindy McGee at the annual holiday dance hosted by People First of Midland, part of the Arc of Midland, on Thursday at the Great Hall.

Formal portrait session. Dow Gardens, October 2014.
Also, THIS LITTLE GUY!!! Too cute :) Family portrait at Dow Gardens in Midland Family portrait at Dow Gardens in Midland

And one of my favorite frames from the summer. Cheeseburger in Caseville Parade of Tropical Fools on Aug. 13Jeff Talaski of Verona laughs during the Parade of Tropical Foolson Wednesday, Aug. 13, in downtown Caseville. The Cheeseburger in Caseville festival runs from Aug. 8 until Aug. 17.
(Danielle McGrew | for the Bay City Times)

Dow Great Lakes Bay Regional Science & Engineering FestivalJoey Domson, 5, of Saginaw, cheers as a chemical reaction dubbed "goblin's brew" takes place while he volunteers during the Dr. Slime science show at the Dow Great Lakes Bay Regional Science and Engineering Festival at Delta College on Saturday, Sept. 27. The two-day event featured educational activities related to STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) fields.

Troup family continues popcorn legacyDanielle McGrew | for the Daily News

Nate Troup fills bags of popcorn to give to trick-or-treaters at the Troup home on Wild Pine Court in Midland on Friday, Oct. 31. Tim Troup, who passed away in August, handed out popcorn made in his old-fashioned popcorn maker each Halloween to visiting trick-or-treaters. His family decided to continue his tradition this year.

Troup family continues popcorn legacyDanielle McGrew | for the Daily News

Nate Troup, dressed as 'Tim going hunting' in honor of his late father, prepares bags of popcorn at the Troup home on Wild Pine Court in Midland on Friday, Oct. 31. His father Tim Troup, who passed away in August, handed out popcorn made in his old-fashioned popcorn maker each Halloween to visiting trick-or-treaters. His family decided to continue his tradition this year.

Troup family continues popcorn legacyDanielle McGrew | for the Daily News

Candles surround photographs of the late Tim Troup at his home on Wild Pine Court in Midland on Friday, Oct. 31. Tim Troup, who passed away in August, handed out popcorn made in his old-fashioned popcorn maker each Halloween to visiting trick-or-treaters. His family decided to continue his tradition this year.

The Midland County Search and Rescue team— all volunteers!— held a night training at the Midland City Park. I was able to join them while the light was perfect, and I learned a lot about what they do in the process. You can read that story here.

Midland County Search and Rescue night trainingDanielle McGrew | for the Daily News

Wendy Gilbert of Saginaw, Jeanne Armstrong of St. Charles and Kevin Cuthbertson of Midland go through a checklist of necessary items during the Midland County Search and Rescue night training session at Midland City Forest Park on Saturday, Nov. 1. The volunteers practiced different search methods, pace counting, navigation and other skills. Midland County Search and Rescue night trainingDanielle McGrew | for the Daily News

Dave Wallick of Midland Wendy Gilbert of Saginaw check their radios during the Midland County Search and Rescue night training session at Midland City Forest Park on Saturday, Nov. 1. Wallick said he has been volunteering with the group for about a year; Gilbert has been a member for two years. Midland County Search and Rescue night trainingDanielle McGrew | for the Daily News

Midland County Search and Rescue treasurer and founding board member Kevin Barnum of Sanford participates in a pace-counting test during the organization's night training session at Midland City Forest Park on Saturday, Nov. 1. Volunteers must know how many steps they take to walk 100 meters in order to keep track of their location during searches.

Dow High advances to district finals after beating Midland HighDanielle McGrew | for the Daily News

Dow High senior Keely Mccaffrey dives after the ball during the district tournament semifinals at Bay City Western High School in Auburn on Wednesday, Nov. 5. After falling to Midland High 18-25 in the first game, Dow High won the next three games 25-16, 25-11 and 25-16. Dow High advances to district finals after beating Midland HighDanielle McGrew | for the Daily News

Dow High seniors Alyssa Stone (back) and Helena Atton (front) celebrate after scoring against Midland during the district tournament semifinals at Bay City Western High School in Auburn on Wednesday, Nov. 5. After falling to Midland High 18-25 in the first game, Dow High won the next three games 25-16, 25-11 and 25-16. Meridian Mustangs host Beaverton Beavers football on Oct. 24Danielle McGrew | for the Daily News
Beaverton junior Chandler Grove tries to tackle Meridian junior Miles LeViere, which escapes both Grove and Beaverton senior Ryan Duvall, back, to score a touchdown shortly before halftime at Meridian High School in Sanford on Friday, Oct. 24. Meridian Mustangs host Beaverton Beavers football on Oct. 24Danielle McGrew | for the Daily News
Meridian junior Andre Smith sprints down the field to score a touchdown at Meridian High School in Sanford on Friday, Oct. 24. Meridian Mustangs host Beaverton Beavers football on Oct. 24Danielle McGrew | for the Daily News
Meridian junior Aubrianah Kortge cheers during a game against Beaverton at Meridian High School in Sanford on Friday, Oct. 24. Dow hosts Midland High for girls' swim meet Oct. 23Danielle McGrew | for the Daily News
Midland senior Sydney Gross, center, hugs Bre Bowen while Ally Kiekhaefer, right, congratulates her after Gross broke the school's diving record during a meet at H. H. Dow High School in Midland on Thursday, Oct. 23. Dow hosts Midland High for girls' swim meet Oct. 23Danielle McGrew | for the Daily News
Dow's Kelly Ballard competes in the 200-yard medley at H. H. Dow High School in Midland on Thursday, Oct. 23. Dow hosts Midland High for girls' swim meet Oct. 23Danielle McGrew | for the Daily News
Dow's Mackenzie Pirie competes in the 100-yard butterfly at H. H. Dow High School in Midland on Thursday, Oct. 23.

Fall Out Boy concert. Aug. 28 2014.

Before summer slid into autumn, I had the chance to visit the Upper Peninsula with my parents, go camping with friends and attend a Fall Out Boy concert. Of course, even while on “vacation,” I’m always making images. The difference is that those photos seem to stay in pre-edit limbo for much longer, but I’m slowly getting to them!
I’ve still been working plenty, despite what this post may suggest. The last photo is from an assignment for the Midland Daily News, but most of my time these past six weeks or so have been focused on writing and photographing the centerpiece story for FAITH Saginaw, the magazine of the Diocese of Saginaw. Until that publishes, I can’t share those photos, but I’m very excited to do so!

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

Camping, Empire, MI. July 15, 2014.

(Danielle McGrew | for the Daily News)
Meridian High School freshman Zach Thomson sweeps dirt and cobwebs off the exterior of a building at the Sanford Centennial Museum on Wednesday, Sept. 3. The Meridian High School football team assisted volunteers in setting up for the Sanford Historical Society’s annual Founders’ Day. The event is Sept. 6 and 7 throughout Sanford and includes entertainment, historical demonstrations, children’s activities, a craft show and classic car show.

Sanford and Sun Triathlon and Duathlon

Danielle McGrew | for the Daily News
Athletes prepare for the Sanford and Sun Triathlon and Duathlon at Sanford Lake Park on Saturday, Aug. 9. The competition raises funds for the Fallen and Wounded Soldier Foundation.

Sanford and Sun Triathlon and Duathlon

Danielle McGrew | for the Daily News
Athletes prepare their gear for the biking segment of the Sanford and Sun Triathlon and Duathlon at Sanford Lake Park on Saturday, Aug. 9. The competition raises funds for the Fallen and Wounded Soldier Foundation.

Sanford and Sun Triathlon and Duathlon

Danielle McGrew | for the Daily News
Athletes competing in the men’s Olympic-distance triathlon dash into the water at the Sanford and Sun Triathlon and Duathlon at Sanford Lake Park on Saturday, Aug. 9. The event was a combination of swimming, cycling and running.

Dick Bayne recognized for 22 of service at Bay County 4-H Livestock Auction

Olivia Rechsteiner of the Country Cousins Critters and Kids 4-H Club wrangles her grand champion turkey before the Bay County 4-H Livestock Auction on Thursday, Aug. 7, at the Bay County Fairgrounds in Bay City. (Danielle McGrew | for the Bay City Times)

Dick Bayne recognized for 22 of service at Bay County 4-H Livestock Auction

Courtney Alderton of the Bits ‘n’ Pieces 4-H Club leads her 165-pound lamb at the Bay County 4-H Livestock Auction on Thursday, Aug. 7, at the Bay County Fairgrounds in Bay City. (Danielle McGrew | for the Bay City Times)

Dick Bayne recognized for 22 of service at Bay County 4-H Livestock Auction

Melissa Rapp of the Country Cousins Critters and Kids 4-H Club directs her hog at the Bay County 4-H Livestock Auction on Thursday, Aug. 7, at the Bay County Fairgrounds in Bay City. (Danielle McGrew | for the Bay City Times)

Dick Bayne recognized for 22 of service at Bay County 4-H Livestock Auction

Dick Bayne of Henderson spots bidders during the Bay County 4-H Livestock Auction on Thurs., Aug. 7, at the Bay County Fairgrounds in Bay City. Bayne has been volunteering his services at the annual event for 22 years. (Danielle McGrew | for the Bay City Times)

Sorry, but I’m (mostly) caught up now, and I promise I’ll try to be better about keeping my blog updated. I’ve also been working on a second website where clients or others who like my work can purchase prints. You can find that here:  http://daniellemcgrewphotography.zenfolio.com/

Jim Lust of Crestline, Ohio, examines a motorcycle owned by K.C. Glad of Temperance, Mich., during a light competition at the Gold Wing Road Riders Association Rally at the Midland County Fairgrounds on Saturday, Aug. 2.
Glad said the bike has about 2,000 lights on it, and he adds a little more each year.
“I get a lot of looks off it,” he said. “Kids love it.”

Judges examine a motorcycle during light competition at the Gold Wing Road Riders Association Rally at the Midland County Fairgrounds on Saturday, Aug. 2. The three-day event includes several competitions, entertainment and motorcycle rides.

Judges, some wearing sunglasses, look over a motorcycle owned by Roy Hayward of Auburn during the Gold Wing Road Riders Association Rally at the Midland County Fairgrounds on Saturday, Aug. 2. Dubbed “The Flame,” Hayward said his bike has won the light show competition for seven years straight, and the one prior to it won three times as well.
The lights shine through individually-drilled holes in the motorcycle body, a process Hayward said required about three months.

Midland County Habitat for HumanityÕs Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative

Danielle McGrew | for the Daily News
Dow intern Astghik Poladyan, originally from Armenia but going to college in Boston, repaints a doorframe on a Rodd Street home for the Midland County Habitat for HumanityÕs Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative on Monday, Aug. 4.
“It’s really a nice thing to do,” Poladyan said. “We’re interns, so we’re only here for 10 weeks, but we take an afternoon to do this.”

Dow Chemical employees help transform Euclid Linear Park into Discover Preserve in Bay City

Dow Chemical employee Sheila Gombar-Fetner of Midland plants native species at Discovery Preserve on Euclid Avenue in Bay City on Monday. Gombar-Fetner, a Midland County Master Gardener, was one of 84 employees helping the Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy transform the area into an urban nature preserve.
“This is the kind of volunteering I like to do,” she said, adding that it applies to her work in the environmental sustainability department as well.

Notes about freelancing:  Going forward, there will be a lot of photos involving the Catholic Church. After my article about Fr. Jozwiak meeting Popes John Paul II and John XXIII, Director of Communications for the Diocese Erin Carlson contacted me, and once I began freelancing I’ve had the opportunity to photograph many special events as well as write articles for their magazine.

Diocese of Saginaw celebrates Freedom Mass at Holy Family Church on July 1

The Rev. Richard Jozwiak greets a parishioner following the Mass for Freedom and subsequent prayer service on Tuesday, July 1, as part of the Fortnight for Freedom. After the Mass, Bishop Cistone and the many priests, Knights of Columbus and faithful in attendance processed to the Veterans Memorial at Hoyt Park for a brief ceremony.

Diocese of Saginaw celebrates Freedom Mass at Holy Family Church on July 1

Diocese of Saginaw celebrates Freedom Mass at Holy Family Church on July 1

The Most Rev. Joseph Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, celebrated a Freedom Mass on Tuesday, July 1, as part of the Fortnight for Freedom. After Mass, Bishop Cistone and the many priests, Knights of Columbus and faithful in attendance processed to the Veterans Memorial at Hoyt Park for a brief ceremony.
(Danielle McGrew | for the Bay City Times)

Baseball is my favorite sport, which surprises some other photogs, because the game can be slow and repetitive. I think I like it so much because I understand it well enough that I can predict what might happen next, so I’m better prepared if a runner tries to steal a base or there is the potential for a double play.

Division 2 baseball semifinals and finals at Garber High School in Essexville on May 31, 2014

Garber’s Allysen Dean catches a pop fly during the Division 2 district semifinal hosted at Garber High School in Essexville on Saturday, May 31. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Garber hosts district quarterfinals for baseball, soccer and softball on Tuesday, May 27

Garber freshman Molly Ledesma and Clare junior Kyra Pappas collide during a district quarterfinal game at Viola Verellen Elementary School in Hampton Township on Tuesday, May 27. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Garber hosts district quarterfinals for baseball, soccer and softball on Tuesday, May 27

A Birch Run player slides into first base during a district quarterfinal game against Birch Run at Garber High School in Essexville on Tuesday, May 27. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Bay City All Saints hosts Bad Axe on Friday, May 23

Bay City All Saints’ Mitch Marvin tumbles over Jared Brown of Bad Axe during a doubleheader against Bad Axe in Bay City on Friday, May 23. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Team of the Week: Bay City Central baseball

Bay City Central’s Tyler Wiechec and Calyb Shaw joke in the dugout during practice at MacGregor Elementary School in Bay City on Tuesday, May 20. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Bay County Track and Field Championships at John Glenn High School on May 9

Athletes leap over their first hurdles at the Bay County Track and Field Championships, hosted at John Glenn High School in Bangor Township on Friday, May 9. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Bay City Central hosts Western lacrosse May 13

Central’s Jordan Morley reacts as Western’s Nolan Davis runs into him at Bay City Central High School on Tuesday, May 13. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Team of the Week: Pinconning softball

Sophomore Kayla Gauthier, freshman Brianna Foltz, senior MacKenzie Maxon and junior Gabby Yanoski chat before practice at Pinconning High School on Tuesday, May 13. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Bay County Track and Field Championships at John Glenn High School on May 9

Alex Schlatter of Bay City Western competes in the pole vault at the Bay County Track and Field Championships, hosted at John Glenn High School in Bangor Township on Friday, May 9. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Bay City Western hosts Dow for baseball doubleheader May 1

The Western dugout reacts as Seth Freed stretches to touch home plate despite Dow catcher Matt Flanagan’s attempt to tag out Freed during a doubleheader at Bay City Western High School in Auburn on Thursday, May 1. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Bay City Western beats Flushing in Division 1 baseball regional finals at SVSU on June 7

The Bay City Western Warriors react to winning the Division 1 regional finals against Flushing at Saginaw Valley State University on Saturday, June 7. The Warriors will proceed to the quarterfinal game at Central Michigan University on June 10. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Bay City Western beats Flushing in Division 1 baseball regional finals at SVSU on June 7

Bay City Western junior David Fegan slides into home plate during Division 1 regional finals at Saginaw Valley State University on Saturday, June 7. Bay City Western won and will proceed to the quarterfinal game at Central Michigan University on June 10. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Conservation press conference at Bay City State Recreation Area in Bangor Township on Tuesday, May 27

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack speaks with reporters during a press conference at the Bay City State Recreation Area in Bangor Township on Tuesday, May 27. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Pine Ridge Cemetery rededication ceremony on May 26

Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War members Lloyd Lamphere and Jack Frost fire rifles to salute fallen soldiers and veterans during a rededication ceremony on Memorial Day, May 26. The former Pine Ridge Cemetery was renamed Soldiers’ Rest. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Memorial Day ceremonies at Oak Ridge Cemetery and Bay County Building on May 26

Kenneth Burtch, 10th District Commander for the American Legion, holds a Bible and grasps a custom-made cane following a Memorial Day ceremony at Oak Ridge Cemetery on Monday, May 26. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

St. James Elementary School students release butterflies as symbol of new life in wake of upcoming consolidation

Adiana Moreno, Iris Costilla and Camron Shooltz examine a butterfly outside St. James School in Bay City on Wednesday, May 21. The butterflies were raised by each class and released as a symbol of new life as the three local Catholic elementary school prepare to consolidate into All Saints Central Elementary. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

St. James Elementary School students release butterflies as symbol of new life in wake of upcoming consolidation

St. James students watch as a butterfly rests on plants outside St. James School in Bay City on Wednesday, May 21. The butterflies were raised by each class and released as a symbol of new life as the three local Catholic elementary school prepare to consolidate into All Saints Central Elementary. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Studio 23 show to feature student art

Mellisa Boyd laughs while painting a cauliflower plant at Studio 23 in downtown Bay City on Tuesday, May 20. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Studio 23 show to feature student art

Dan Harrison of Auburn throws pottery at Studio 23 in downtown Bay City on Tuesday, May 20. Five of Harrison’s pieces will be displayed at the Studio 23 Painters and Potters exhibit. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Bay City Western hosts Bay City Central on May 16, 2014

A trio of spectators watches the Bay City Western-Central baseball game from the football bleachers in Auburn on Friday, May 16. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Balloon release in memory of Pinconning student, May 15

Senior Derek Daniels gathers balloons to be released in memory of Pinconning sophomore Kirsten Hughes, who passed away in November, at Pinconning High School on Wednesday, May 15. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Whistling Idiots rehears "Unnecessary Farce" at May 13

Bob Graczyk (Todd the Scotsman) yells the final line of the play during a rehearsal of “Unnecessary Farce” at the Whistling Idiots Theatre Tuesday, May 13. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

CAN Council Great Lakes Bay Region to host annual Wines Around the World event at DoubleTree

Lemon tarts with blueberry compote topped with cream will be served at the CAN Council Wines Around the World fundraiser on May 29 at the DoubleTree in Bay City. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Clynton Bartlett of Bay City walking pet duck

Clynton Bartlett of Bay City plays with his pet Peking duck, Launchpad McQuack, in Wenonah Park in downtown Bay City on Thursday, May 8. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Clynton Bartlett of Bay City walking pet duck

A Peking duck, Launchpad McQuack, shows off for the camera in Wenonah Park in downtown Bay City on Thursday, May 8. His owner, Clynton Bartlett of Bay City, said he got Launchpad at the Tractor Supply Company for $5 when he was four days old. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Bay Concert Band rehearses for Sumer Is Icumen In (Summer Is Coming) concert

Fellow musicians are reflected in a trombone player’s bell during a Bay Concert Band rehearsal at Bay City Central High School on Tuesday, May 6. The band will perform their summer concert, Sumer Is Icumen In (Summer Is Coming), on May 13. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Play 60 event at Bay City Central High School on May 3, 2014

Collin Heath, 10, cartwheels at the Play 60 event hosted by United Way of Bay County and SVSU at Bay City Central High School on Saturday, May 3. The second annual event encourages youth to play actively at least one hour daily. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Tougher Together soccer game at Garber High School on May 2, 2014

Patrick Steffen, a teacher at Cramer Junior High School, leaves the field with Connor Bint after the two participated in a game ball presentation at the sixth annual Tougher Together soccer game at Garber High School in Essexville on Friday, May 2. The event raised money for the Connor Bint Foundation and Royal Family Kids Camp, represented by Steffen. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Needless to say, I jumped at the opportunity to photograph the Miss Bay County pageant for the local Bay City Times. Below are a few of my favorite moments.

Mallory Rivard crowned Miss Bay County 2015

Miss Bay County 2014 Katelyn Mlujeak hugs directory Linda Bilhimer before going onstage for the Miss Bay County pageant on Sunday, July 20, at Garber High School in Essexville. (Danielle McGrew | for the Bay City Times)

Mallory Rivard crowned Miss Bay County 2015

Contestants and pageant crew gather in a circle to pray before the Miss Bay County pageant on Sunday, July 20, at Garber High School in Essexville. (Danielle McGrew | for the Bay City Times)

Mallory Rivard crowned Miss Bay County 2015

Contestants fix their hair and apply makeup before the Miss Bay County pageant on Sunday, July 20, at Garber High School in Essexville. (Danielle McGrew | for the Bay City Times)

Mallory Rivard crowned Miss Bay County 2015

Mallory Rivard reacts to being named Miss Bay County 2015 on Sunday, July 20, at Garber High School in Essexville. Rivard will compete in the Miss Michigan pageant as part of the Miss America program next year. (Danielle McGrew | for the Bay City Times)

Mallory Rivard crowned Miss Bay County 2015

Mallory Rivard reacts as she is crowned Miss Bay County 2015 by Miss Bay County 2014 Katelyn Mlujeak on Sunday, July 20, at Garber High School in Essexville. Rivard will compete in the Miss Michigan pageant as part of the Miss America program next year. (Danielle McGrew | for the Bay City Times)

Mallory Rivard crowned Miss Bay County 2015

Mallory Rivard reacts to someone in the crowd as she waves after being crowned Miss Bay County 2015 on Sunday, July 20, at Garber High School in Essexville. Rivard will compete in the Miss Michigan pageant as part of the Miss America program next year. (Danielle McGrew | for the Bay City Times)

Aaaaand… he sat in the cake.

The funny thing about life is that we can plan all we want, and it still ends up surprising us.

My internship with the Bay City Times ended in early June.

By that time, I had transitioned from a photo intern to “the intern who writes stories and takes photos and videos for them and sometimes also does other photo-related things, especially if it’s at night.”

By that time, I had claimed several front page photos and stories as well as some Sunday centerpieces.

I’d grown. I’d made friends. I fell in love.

And I met this guy.

So I’m still here. In Bay City, Michigan.

For a little while, at least.

I’m freelancing for the Times, the Midland Daily News and the Catholic Diocese of Saginaw as well as making portraits for individuals. I’ll try to be better about updating my blog now that life is a little less hectic.

Meanwhile, as the job search continues, I’m rediscovering how delightful it can be to make photos for yourself, not an editor, a client or a deadline.

But that doesn’t change that I’m a journalist…. and I’ve definitely had dreams of going out on assignments.

Building demolished at corner of Tenth and Washington on April 1, 2014

A building owned by SSP Associates, which served as the treasure’s office and accounts receivable while Bay City Hall was undergoing renovations, was demolished by Bierlein on Tuesday, April 1, at the corner of Tenth Street and Washington Avenue.
(Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Springtime arrives to Bay City

Greydon Thomas, almost 5, honks his bicycle horn at his friend Owen Olepsy, 5, at a playground in Veterans Memorial Park in Bay City on Wednesday, April 2. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Team of the Week: Bay City Central Lacrosse

Sophomore Ramarkiss Williams warms up tossing and catching a ball before a lacrosse scrimmage against Wolves alumni on Tuesday, April 8, at Bay City Central. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Brandon Reno sentenced at Bay County Court Facility on Wednesday, April 9

Friends and family of the late Robert Rambo weep during the sentencing of Brandon Reno at the Bay County Court Facility on Wednesday, April 9. Reno was sentenced after pleading no contest to single counts of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated causing death and causing serious injury. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

SVSU Outdoor Invitational track and field meet on Friday, April 11

Western’s Brooke Fielder leaps over a hurdle during the 100-meter hurdle race at the SVSU Outdoor Invitational track and field meet at Morley Field on Friday, April 11. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

SVSU Outdoor Invitational track and field meet on Friday, April 11

Bay City Western’s Brett Sweicicki throws the shot put at the SVSU Outdoor Invitational track and field meet at Morley Field on Friday, April 11. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Inaugural Bay County Baseball Championship Tournament, April 12

John Glenn’s Tone Jacobs pitches in the rain during the Bay County Baseball Tournament championship game at John Glenn High School on Saturday, April 12. The game was called off due to weather conditions and will be rescheduled at a later date. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Bay County girls soccer tournament on April 12, 2014

Bay City Western’s Jennifer Hacker prepares to attempt a goal as John Glenn’s Katie Veit guards her at the Bay County Soccer Tournament at T. L. Handy Middle School in Bay City on Saturday, April 12. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Bay County girls soccer tournament on April 12, 2014

Splish Splash Egg Dash at Delta College on Friday, April 18, 2014

A child’s head peeks out from among floating eggs during the Splish Splash Egg Dash at Delta College on Friday, April 18. More than 4.000 eggs were involved in the annual hunt. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Splish Splash Egg Dash at Delta College on Friday, April 18, 2014

Blaine Morgan of Bay City holds his grandson, four-year-old Bryce Altscheffel, as he collects eggs during the Splish Splash Egg Dash at Delta College on Friday, April 18. The event welcomed kids ages one through 12, with each age group searching for eggs in a different area of the pool. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Governor's Quarters in Bay City features Michigan-made beer, spirits

Bartender Darin Distance prepares a flight of Michigan craft beers at Governor’s Quarters in Bay City on Friday, April 18. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Redeeming Love Christian Embassy Easter Egg Hunt at Nate Doan Park in Bay City, April 19, 2014

A child struggles to hold so many plastic eggs during the Redeeming Love Christian Embassy Easter Egg Hunt at Nate Doan Park on Bay City’s West Side on Saturday, April 14. More than 10,000 eggs were spread between three age groups plus a special needs area. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

John Glenn Bobcats win first Bay County Baseball Tournament championship April 22, 2014

Western’s Justin Gorr lobs the ball towards first base as John Glenn’s Garrett Krager tries to get a base hit during the Bay County Baseball Tournament championship game at John Glenn High School on Tuesday, April 22. The Bobcats beat the Warriors 7-1. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

John Glenn Bobcats win first Bay County Baseball Tournament championship April 22, 2014

John Glenn’s Derrek Clyde is on deck while Adam Meyer is at the plate during the Bay County Baseball Tournament championship game at John Glenn High School on Tuesday, April 22. The Bobcats beat the Warriors 7-1. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Little League baseball begins in Bay County

Shirts, Mugs and More players Seth Greenwood, Steven Lukins II and Collin Reiss cheer on their teammates from the dugout during a game at the Southwest Little League field in Bay CIty on Tuesday, April 22. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Little League baseball begins in Bay County

The chain-link fence at the dugout frames a batter during a game at the Southwest Little League field in Bay CIty on Tuesday, April 22. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Team of the Week: Bay City Western Softball

Western’s Blair Miller leads the team in a prayer before a double-header against Saginaw High School at Bay City Western High in Auburn on Wednesday, April 23. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Models prepare for Diva fashion show at Fashion in the Garden in Bay City

Sheryl Dorais of Midland holds up a necklace to see if it matches her dress at Fashion in the Garden in Bay City on Thursday, April 23. She was selecting outfits for the Downtown Divas fashion show on May 10. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Bay City Western hosts Central lacrosse April 23, 2014

Central goalkeeper Jared Huiskens reacts after Western scored their fifth goal against the team during a game at Bay City Western High School in Auburn on Thursday, April 23. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Saginaw Bay Land Conservancy hosts nature event planting winterberries at Discovery Park Friday, April 25

Caitlin Hyde, 5, dumps soil from her shovel while planting winterberry bushes during a Saginaw Bay Land Conservancy event at Discovery Park in Bay City Friday, April 25. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Bay City Western defeats John Glenn High School in softball April 30, 2014

John Glenn’s Kaylee Schreiber slides into first safely during a game against Bay City Western at Auburn Park on Wednesday, April 30. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

This was a fascinating interview of a local priest who met both SAINT John Paul the Great and SAINT John XXIII. I even got to hold a chalice that had been used by both late pontiffs. (Yes, I was more excited and giddy that a teenager at a pop idol’s concert. No shame.)

Check it out here: Saginaw Diocese priest met Pope John Paul II and Pope John XXIII, who both become saints April 27

Understanding Wildlife show by The Rainforest Live, March 3, 2014

A blue-and-gold macaw named Kelly flies over the crowd during the Understanding Wildlife show by The Rainforest Live at Bush Elementary School in Essexville on Monday, March 3.(Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Michigan Color Guard Circuit competition at Saginaw Valley State University March 29, 2014

Summit Academy Color Guard from Romulus, Mich., performs “We Are Home” during the Michigan Color Guard Circuit championships at Saginaw Valley State University Ryder Center on Saturday, March 29. Summit Academy placed third in the Regional A Division.
(Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Meline Smith

Meline Smith, a freshman at Bay City Central, will be traveling to Oklahoma next week to compete on the Michigan girls’ wresting team in a national competition. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Jump for Jill at MacGregor Elementary School in Bay City on March 18

Pre-kindergarten student Skyla Green-Sweeney is extremely excited about the “Jump with Jill” rock ‘n’ roll nutrition show at MacGregor Elementary School in Bay City on Tuesday, March 18. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

60th Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade on March 16, 2014

Bill ‘W.J.’ Meagher peers out from the inside of the family float, which he pulled with a concealed four-wheeler for the 60th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Bay City on Sunday, March 16.(Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Pinconning High School students rehearse My Son Pinocchio on March 28, 2014

Lorin Summers, 5, giggles as Kaydence Merso, 7, hugs her before a rehearsal for My Son Pinocchio at Pinconning High School on Friday, March 28.
(Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Bay Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting on March 27, 2014 in Bay City

Eric Jylha of WNEM TV5 raises his plaque as he is inducted into the Business Hall of Fame at the Bay Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting, Dynamic Vision, on Thursday, March 27, at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Bay City.
(Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

20 Minutes a Day reading program in Bay City on March 22

Kaelee Puribraski, 10, of Bay City, snuggles therapy dog Jeronimo, a great Pyrenees/sheepdog mix during the 20 Minutes a Day reading program at T. L. Handy Middle School in Bay City on Saturday, March 22.
The dogs come to local libraries about once a month for kids to read to them. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Guys and Dolls rehearsal at Bay City Central

Sky Masterson, played by Logan Rabideau, and other gamblers rehearse “Luck be a Lady Tonight” from Guys and Dolls at Bay City Central High School on Tuesday, March 11. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Meagher family float returns to Bay City's St. Patrick's Day Parade

Meghan Jurek laughs as she tries to paint a diamond pattern on a paper mache snake in the Meagher’s garage in Hampton Township on March 8. The Meagher’s float will be in this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Meagher family float returns to Bay City's St. Patrick's Day Parade

Kirby Pettyjohn marks where the cross will need to be trimmed to better fit on the Meagher family float for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Puck o' the Irish hockey tournament March 8, 2014

Bay County Blizzard PeeWee 1’s Clay Weiss skates away with the puck at the Puck o’ the Irish hockey tournament at the Bay County Civic Arena on Saturday, March 8. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Standish-Sterling Central beats John Glenn to claim district championship Friday, March 7

Standish-Sterling Panthers Coach Matt Koin, players and fans react as the points margin reaches 56-47 over John Glenn with less than a minute left in the district championship at Gladwin High School on Friday, March 7. The Panthers beat the Bobcats 59-49 and will proceed to regionals at Pinconning. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Standish-Sterling Central beats John Glenn to claim district championship Friday, March 7

John Glenn junior Tyler Robbins shoots during the district championship at Gladwin High School on Friday, March 7. The Panthers beat the Bobcats 59-49 and will proceed to regionals at Pinconning. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Basketball at the Bay County Community Center, March 4, 2014

Amon Laudenslager, 6, shoots a basketball at the Bay County Community Center in Bay City on Tuesday, March 4. Amon was at the gym during open basketball with his stepfather, Ronnie Wilkins of Bay City. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)

Bay City All Saints takes on Kingston in regional girls basketball tournament March 4, 2014

Bay City All Saints Assistant Coach Mike Debo hugs his daughter, senior Katie Debo, as she leaves the court from her final high school basketball game at the regional tournament at Akron-Fairgrove High School on Tuesday, March 4. (Danielle McGrew | The Bay City Times)