Jeanette Krzyzek Photography

Please Excuse The Dust....

2012-01-26T22:48:00.000-08:00

I apologize for the lengthy delay!
Please Stand By....
Blog under construction.
:)

Sisterly Love

2011-12-28T11:21:00.000-08:00

The special relationship + love between two sisters is priceless.

I love when siblings are as close as these two lovely girls.

xoxox

Thanks Syd + Mia!

1+1=3

2011-12-28T11:12:00.000-08:00

There's nothing quite like the anticipation of the arrival of your unborn child. WOW! Gives me goosebumps just thinking back to when I was pregnant. {sigh} Oh how I miss those days. Luckily I can live vicariously through my clients. {ha ha!}

Congratulations and good luck to my lovely friends Christine + Evan! You guys are going to be amazing parents.

Can't wait to meet your baby girl!!!

xoxox

Home for the holidays

2011-12-28T10:31:00.000-08:00

I gotta tell ya.... I love my job. I feel funny even calling it a "job". I get some of the most charismatic, loving, personable families around! I show up ready to work but in the process I'm laughing and joking, and having a great time. It's an absolute JOY!

Thank you "W" family!! You guys were so incredibly cooperative and fun to be around. Thank you for allowing me into your GORGEOUS home/property to photograph your family of "14". So wonderful to have parents, children, grandchildren, and grandparents in the photos! Had a blast!

Here's a little peek from our session

sunshine on a cloudy day

2011-12-07T14:31:00.001-08:00

Even though the sun was nowhere to be found the day of this shoot, there was plenty of warmth found within this family.

I have known this family since.... well, most of my life actually. They are practically an extension of my own family. I adore them with all of my heart.

I had hoped for better weather for our shoot that day, but Spencer was soon to be shipped out to basic training - there was no time to wait for "the perfect conditions". We simply took what was handed to us and were grateful for the time together!

Thank you Peggy for "going with the flow" and keeping such a positive outlook. I know it's going to be rough without Spencer being around, but how proud you must be of him and his choice to serve our country! You have raised quite a gentleman. (Thank you Spencer for your service!)

Your daughter is absolutely beautiful! I can see the love and bond between the two of you.

You are quite blessed, as are your children!

Thanks again for hanging out with me! It was wonderful to see you and your family again!

love, hugs and kisses,

Peggy,

This rainbow shimmered through at the end of our shoot as I was ready to drive away. I have a feeling Stephanie was with us looking down and smiling from above!

Sunshine for the Soul!

2011-11-14T12:49:00.001-08:00

What a truly wonderful way to climb my way out of a long hiatus!

I cannot fully express how much I adore this family. Each one of these individuals has a light within them that shines brighter than the sun above. Even on a cloudy day! They just beam "HAPPINESS!"

Some of you might recognize the lovely lass in this photograph as Amy Schuff with Amy Schuff Photography. Not only is she a brilliant photographer, she is an wonderful friend. I'm so very proud (and blessed!) to have her and her family in my life.

Amy - Thank you so much for hanging out with me over the weekend. I had an absolute blast on our "girls night" and could've continued to talk your ear off until the wee hours. Your friendship is a true gift and your heart is so loyal and giving.

As always, a pure pleasure to see you and your stunning family!

Love you guys with all my heart!

More pictures coming soon!

Better.....not Bitter

2011-11-08T22:07:00.000-08:00

I wish I had the time to sit and write about where and why I've been away for so long. Life doesn't always give warnings as to what lies around the next corner up ahead. I suppose this is what keeps things so interesting. Not always are things pleasant and often times they are not what we had planned or hoped for. Improvising and adaptation have certainly become two key words in my vocabulary these days.

As I sit and reflect on the months gone past, I can do one of two things:

1) Sit and dwell on the bad things and be angry or sad.

2) Move forward, learn from the circumstances thrown my way and become BETTER - not bitter.

I will choose #2. Is it going to be easy? Nope! But ~ most things in life worth having or conquering rarely ever are! Choosing to move forward doesn't mean sweeping things under the rug and pretend that nothing has happened. It doesn't mean ignoring thoughts, feelings or emotions and stuffing them down deep so that they may fester and erupt on another day in the near future. It simply means taking things one day at a time. Moving through a situation has a much better end result than maneuvering around it or avoiding it all together.

Day. By. Day.

Thanks to all of my loyal followers. Your continued support and encouragement has meant the world to me.

Sincerely with most gratitude,

Jeanette

Back in the Saddle....

2011-08-17T15:49:00.000-07:00

Ever since our trip to Vegas to see her cousins back in March, my daughter has been wanting to ride horses and live the cowgirl life. We took her and her brother and cousins to a ranch out there and she got her first real taste for horseback riding. Grinning from ear to ear while sitting high in the saddle, I thought she'd never want to leave!

I must admit, I've always been a sucker for the smell of hay, dust on some cowgirl boots, cowgirl hat, and life on the farm. I didn't grow up living that life... but deep down I have always been drawn to it. Something about the countryside I could definitely get used to.

Anyway, Sophia will have her first official horse riding lesson here in our hometown this coming Saturday. She's very excited. She has her cowgirl boots all picked out and ready to go!

Yeeeee hawwww!!!!!

Beauty

2011-07-26T00:22:00.000-07:00

Wow! I am so honored to be able to photograph such loveliness and grace. This little sweet pea is just STUNNING! Her angelic sweet face has me wrapped around her little finger.

Lucky me.... she has 3 other gorgeous sisters too! Oh.... and bonus..... they are my little cousins as well!!! What wonderful models they make!!

There will be lots more images of this little cutie pie and her sisters soon I'm sure!

Stay tuned!

Carnival!

2011-07-12T11:41:00.000-07:00

What could be more fun than doing a photo shoot at the carnival? Photographing an amazingly FUN and EXPRESSIVE couple at the carnival, that's what!!

With this newly engaged couple, you are always guaranteed a bunch of laughs. Not just little laughs either. I mean BIG belly hurtin', tears streaming down face, lose your breath kind of laughter! I adore them so very much!

Thank you Coz and Shawn for such a fun memorable day!!!! There are certainly SO many fun photos from your shoot, but for now I will share a few of my faves!!!

Love you guys! Can't wait to see you again... SOON!

Woooah!

2011-07-11T21:07:00.000-07:00

Holy cow! I cannot believe how much time has passed since I have last posted to my blog!!! I suppose there's no better way to get back on the horse then to.... well, get back on the horse of course!! I make no excuses for my absence. (but I have been SUPER busy!!)

Ok, first of all, let me update you guys on our new BEAST that we brought into our family. Aaaah yes. You all remember his sweet face from my last post right? That was when he was roughly 4 days old! Time has flown by. He's now almost 16 weeks (YIKES that kinda tells you how long it's been since I last posted!!! DOH!) and weighs in at almost 30 lbs! (hence the title "BEAST")

We decided to name him Memphis. It was a unanimous vote. He's a smart little boy... but don't you let those sweet little eyes fool you. He's a little NAUGHTY!!! As much as I wanted us all to enjoy the puppy stages, I must tell you I could really SKIP this part. Don't get me wrong, I love Memphis. I could just go without the puppy accidents/potty training, the chewing, the hyper active biting and nipping, the painful needle teeth that seem like FOREVER to fall out, the holes being dug in my grass, the sprinkler system that has been chewed apart, etc. etc. etc.

I didn't go into this adventure blindly though. I did know that it was going to be work. I know owning a pet is a commitment. They need lots of love and attention and patience. Really, it was like adding a new child to the group. (except this one is a lot more destructive than any newborn I've ever met!)

Anyway. I know as time goes on and with diligent training, Memphis will be a perfect fit for our family.

Here's part of the reason for my lack of blogging!

Dang you Memphis! This look will always make me forgive you!!!!

Pssst! Anyone out there?

2011-04-13T16:15:00.000-07:00

Ok.. I know. I'm out of control! I'm here, then I'm gone. I'm here, then I'm gone. I haven't been vacationing. I haven't been laying around eating bon bons.... and no, I didn't crawl into a cave and hibernate for the winter (although that kinda sounds amazing!) I've been SUPER wild busy! That's no complaint either. I've taken on many new projects, some photography related, some personal. It's been go go GO! I'm still catching my breath! My calendar is FULL!

I WILL return to my blogging very soon. I'm in the middle of some really big exciting changes and restructuring. I will be honest. I'll probably be sporadic with posting for the next few weeks, but I promise I'll do my very best to bridge the gaps between posts.

For now I will leave you with this little image of one someone that will be keeping me QUITE busy!!!

Meet................well, we're not totally sure what his name will be yet. As of today he's exactly 3 weeks old! He will be joining our family on May 11th! We cannot wait!!!! We have some ideas for names but we are very open to suggestions too! Feel free! Drop me a comment on my blog and let me know what name you think fits! So far these are the names being dropped into a hat:

Memphis (so far the most popular vote in our house), Houston (Hue or Huey for short) Nashville (Nash), Knoxville (Knox), Louie, Nikon (lol! what??) Bowie (pronounced "boo-Eee". Like the hunting knife), Boone, Sawyer, Hurley, Echo, Desmond, and Jacob (yep! we're LOST FANS!)

Ya so... let me know if YOU have any suggestions!! Hmm. Maybe if you submit a name and we use it, I'll offer some sort of prize! Hmmm. This could be fun! :)

Here he is!!!!

He's a Lab. Mama is a black lab and Daddy is a Chocolate Lab.

Photo a day - Day 25

2011-02-25T20:38:00.000-08:00

With a hand like this, everyone's a winner.

What will you do with the cards you are dealt?

xoxox

Photo a day - Day 24

2011-02-24T20:21:00.000-08:00

And this is what cold rainy days are all about......

xoxox

Photo a day - Day 23

2011-02-23T23:12:00.000-08:00

You know it's going to be a good day when...........

Photo a day - Day ???? what the heck???

2011-02-23T00:37:00.000-08:00

DANG IT!!!!

This always seems to happen. I get all giddy about doing a blog project, get off to a great start, and then BOOM!!!!!

Something called "life" happens and I get derailed! Sorry you guys. I try so hard. I even picked the shortest month out of the dang year in hopes of increasing my chances of success, but.. to no avail, I still dropped the ball.

I'm going to partially blame my husband for this though. No no.. really. See, I was doing great plugging along and then he decides to take me away for my birthday as a surprise. I was told to pack an overnight bag and wear something pretty. I did not have access to my blog or computer. I was told to relax and leave all deadlines behind while under the care of my darling husband. We were kid free and we were to celebrate! How could I say no to such an invite? I thought, it's just one night right? I'll catch up or double post on the 19th and all will be fine. But noooo! What ended up happening is a big fat snowball effect. Things that I put on "hold" piled up and then time became limited because the 19th was already booked with things and then MORE stuff came my way... etc. etc. It has been so hard to get caught up!!! You get the drift right? Maybe? Kinda? No?

OK OK OK! I suck! I know it! I apologize.

Well, aside from my epic blogging project mishap, my birthday was AWESOME! :) As much as I love blogging for all of you.... the weekend away with my hubby was very much so worth falling a little behind. I adore that man with every fiber in my body and finding some alone time with him was so wonderful!

Photo a day - Day 17

2011-02-17T23:33:00.000-08:00

"The smallest things in the world, can also be the biggest things in life."

She dreams big although she is small. She has a spirit about her that longs to be free. She is strong willed, yet so soft and sweet.

She is Sophia.

My daughter.

My world.

xoxox

There is no doubt in my mind that you hold the world in the palm of your hand Miss Sophia.

xoxox

All my love,

Mom

Photo a day - Day 16

2011-02-16T23:06:00.000-08:00

This past weekend was such a gift. It was a fantastic opportunity for me to regroup and recharge. Like I mentioned a few posts back, I did not have internet or phone service. At first I thought it'd be hard to be so "disconnected", but I quickly and quite easily adapted to not having my day to day accommodations/luxuries.

Just look at this view! Breathtaking, serene and calm. As I sat here, I felt a great peace overcome me. Everything just felt right. I was where I was supposed to be. No schedules, no running errands, no checking/returning emails or voicemails. For the first time in a long time my mind felt uncluttered. Who knew that all I needed to do was to allow myself to disconnect!?

I love finding new places that free your mind.

Have you found your happy place?

Photo A Day - Day 15

2011-02-15T13:37:00.000-08:00

We've all had those days. Days when you feel like you don't quite stack up to the rest of the world. So many images and demands of what we are supposed to look like & who we are supposed to be are instilled in our minds. I can recall feeling very insignificant at a very young age. Not because of anything my family said or did to me, but because of how I perceived the person looking back at me in the mirror. Somehow I wasn't as tall, thin, or pretty as I thought I should be. I continually walked around wishing I was more, hoping to be someone different. That's a lot of pressure to put on yourself at any age, let alone when you are just a young pre-teen kid growing up.

Unfortunately my mindset hasn't really changed very much since I was that little girl. My eyes still very much belong to her. I see the same dissatisfying image looking back at me in the mirror. My very reflection seems to morph and sometimes, I almost don't recognize myself. It's a desperate feeling to say the least.

A friend of mine posted a fantastic saying on her Facebook today and I had to snag it from her.

"To dream of the woman you wish you could be.. is a waste of the woman you already are."

~ author unknown~

I absolutely love this quote. I'm quite certain I have wasted some of my best years wishing I looked like someone else. Instead of wishing and hoping I was someone else, I should've been putting more energy into being the best ME I could be. Being aware of the things I DO have rather than what I do not.

I realize that I will not wake up in the morning and finally accept me as I am. There are years and years of negative thinking that will need to be undone before I can actually set myself entirely free of this. The good news however, is that it's not too late! Each day we must work to remind ourselves of our individual value. Each day we must do the best we can to change the things we can and accept the things we cannot. It's a process that might be easy for some to practice and more difficult for others. The goal is to be kinder and gentler to yourself.

Today I adore PINK! Yah, she's my go to gal when I have something on my mind but cannot find the words to express it. I love what this song stands for. I can relate on so many levels.
(I chose the cleaned up version... aaaw that Pink! You know how she rolls. lol)
Anyway... Here's to all those out there who suffer and struggle with these thoughts.

(thanks to a friend of mine (CP) who reminded me of this song today too!)

This one is for you http://amyschuffphotography.com/blog/ You of all people know how I do NOT get in front of the camera. I hate it really. HATE IT!

Well, today I was on my way out the door after having just listened to PINK's song and thought about my own personal struggles. I grabbed my camera and allowed myself 6 clicks and whatever I got is what I got. No fancy editing, no touchups.... just me. THIS was HARD! I stared and stared at these images and kept finding more things to not like about myself. I found features that were unappealing and wrinkles I didn't realize were there.... but you know what? I had to tell those negative thoughts to take a hike and post them anyway!! Why not? Who am I afraid of? What am I afraid of? Am I afraid people will laugh? Not find me attractive? Why does it matter or better yet does it matter? Point is, I'm me. I know I'm a good person. I am only in control of so much, the rest I have to let go of. My goal is to replace every negative thought with 2 positive ones. Eventually I hope to do away with any negativity that pops into my mind about myself.

I have an amazing life, and amazing husband who loves me and 2 beautiful children that depend on me. I would never ever want either of them to grow up feeling insignificant, so why in hell should I place these restraints upon myself? I must set a better example for my kids to follow.

Today.... I face myself and embrace being me. No molds or expectations to fill.

just....... ME!

INTERRUPTION

2011-02-14T20:41:00.000-08:00

As I kinda figured last Thursday, I was not going to have internet access over the weekend. I really wanted to keep up on my blog posts but I just simply could not. It was out of my hands.

The weekend away was pretty wonderful. Peaceful. Greatly needed. 3 whole days away and pretty much unplugged from the world. I must say.... it was pretty nice!

We went to Tahoe with my sister and brother in law and 2 of my childhood friends. We stayed at a great little cabin, drank, ate good food, sat by the fire, played games, watched movies, walked down to our own little private beach by the lake, hiked, went sledding, out to dinner and drinks! Aaaaah. It was so much fun. Kids had a ball and were SO exhausted each night after a full day of playing in the snow! I already miss it!

Well. We are back and I'm almost caught up on laundry and putting things away etc. I spent most of today getting back into the workflow swing of things.

SO! I will pick up where I left off and start my blog back up tomorrow.

Hope you all had a wonderful weekend and a very HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!!!

see you tomorrow!

Photo A Day - Day 10

2011-02-10T23:19:00.000-08:00

“Love is the condition in which the happiness of another person is essential to your own.”

Robert Heinlein

L-O-V-E

It's such a small word but it has such a HUGE impact. Who doesn't love love right?!

Being that St. Valentine's Day is on a Monday, many of you might have big plans for this weekend. If so what are they? What are you doing for your sweetheart? What do you hope your sweetheart will do for you?

Well, whatever your plans involve, enjoy them and the loved one you are with!

I wish I could take credit for the idea of this picture I took but, I've seen it a couple of times before for weddings etc. I just couldn't resist taking one for myself and perhaps print it off to hang on my wall. It's just such a cute little idea/reminder that love is a feel good word. Know what I mean?

*a little heads up! I may not be available this weekend so I am not 100% certain if I'll be able to post days 11 and 12. I am going to do EVERYTHING I can to keep up, but just letting you know..... it could happen. Just sayin'. :)

xoxoxoxox

Photo A Day - Day 9

2011-02-09T19:26:00.000-08:00

It's evident that it's on it's way!

I'll admit it, I'm normally a fall and winter kind of girl, but basking in the sun suuure has felt GREAT these last few days.

Here's a little glimpse of what's around the corner!

Aaaaaaah! Can ya smell it?

SPRING!

aaaaah-chooo!

Unfortunately, that's coming too!

Photo A Day - Day 8

2011-02-08T22:31:00.000-08:00

When I set out to do my photos for the day, I never really know what I'm going to photograph. I'm sure I should have some sort of plan or structure when taking on such a project, but sometimes I like to let my surroundings set the mood. Like today for instance. It was an ordinary day of returning client phone calls and emails, placing client orders, editing sessions, and the regular day to day household chores and duties. As I glanced up to look at my son eating his simple lunch that consists of a plain hot dog on a plain bun, cantaloupe, and plain yogurt (all by his request I might add) I noticed something that was not so plain or simple. My son is growing up. He looks taller each day. He's growing out of his baby hands and feet at a rate at which I cannot slow. I try to hold on to each moment because I realize that each one fades away. Sometimes the mind forgets things over time and this frightens me deeply. As I feel myself clutching on to my children's youth, I am suddenly reassured by my true friend "Nikon" that together we will capture these very moments and protect and preserve them so that my memory may never forget. Each stage, each smile, each hand and foot print.... ever changing but forever kept.

When I took this picture today I did know how deeply it would grip me until I sat down to post it to my blog. I feel an ache in my heart to know that these little feet will one day grow big and walk out my front door.

I look at these precious little feet and cannot help but to wonder what shoes they will fill.

xoxoxox

I love you Sophia Renee & Lukas Ryder

Photo A Day - Day 7

2011-02-07T23:47:00.000-08:00

We all know and love that exciting feeling you get when you are cleaning out boxes of old stuff and you stumble across something magical. Today, I had that feeling! Get a load of these beauties! I feel like I've struck gold! I don't know how long these have been tucked away but I'm oh so very glad to see them again! The nostalgia. This really makes me miss film. Aaaah! Good times!

Today I am head over heals in love with my old school cameras!

xoxox

Photo A Day - Day 6

2011-02-06T23:35:00.000-08:00

"I would rather have my worst day with you, than my best day without you."

This statement is for my husband, kids, family and friends. Where would I honestly be if not for you? I am so blessed to have such an amazing group of people in my life. Through good times and bad, you've always been right there beside me rooting me on.

Tonight's entry is short and simple, but straight from the heart.

Thanks for making me feel so completely loved!

xoxox

Photo A Day - Day 5

2011-02-05T20:40:00.000-08:00

"The means to gain happiness it to throw out from oneself like a spider in all directions an adhesive web of love, and to catch in it all that comes."

~Leo Nikolaevich Tolstoy~

I'm not a big fan of spiders, but I do admire their ability to create such a magnificent piece of art. Oh sure this web is used as a ploy to lure in it's unsuspecting prey, but just look at it! So precise. So intricate. One little spider has the ability to create such a masterpiece!!!

I know you might look at this picture and think "neat, a boring spider web." But to me it symbolizes what ONE little being can do. Sometimes a task can feel very daunting or overwhelming, but this reminds me that if you need to get something done, being self reliant and determined will usually get the job done!

I love the possibilities that come my way!

*****ok you guys. this post was really NOT meant to be tonights post. My poor baby girl got her finger smashed in the car door and I fear the tip of her finger is broken. It looks so horrible!!!! She's been in a lot of pain and has needed LOTS of hugs and cuddles. We were supposed to do a little photo shoot right before it happened, hence me having to take/use another photograph at the last minute. This photo was taken this evening while out on my walk. Please excuse the improvising. I'm sure you'll understand. It was either this picture of the web or the disturbing image of my sweet little Sophie's horribly swollen and black and blue finger. I thought I'd spare you (and myself) that kind of trauma. *****

xoxoxox

Photo A Day - Day 4

2011-02-04T21:45:00.000-08:00

Kids bedtime routine is in full swing, toys are picked up and put away, and the day is finally winding down. Don't get me wrong, it was a pleasant day. I enjoyed being with my children laughing and playing but let's face it, the quiet time after the kids have gone to bed is magical! This is "my" time. Time to sit and eat my dinner at a leisurely pace and enjoy each and every bite without the interruption of spilled milk, dropped food, or the usual battles of making a 4 year old eat his peas. You know what I'm sayin' right?

We deserve this quiet time. It's so important to find that sliver of a space in your busy day to relax and unplug.

Aaaaah! You feelin' it? It's nice huh? Go on! Put your feet up... ENJOY!

Tonight, served up with all this delicious quietness..... is SUSHI followed by a tall glass of wine! (insert squeal of delight here!)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
{Tonight, I'm lovin' me some sushi, wine, and quiet time!}

Oh... a side note:

I am not a wine snob. I do not sniff my wine after it has been corked and I do not swish it around in my mouth and spit it out. All I know is that when a wine is presented to me, I try it. And if I like it then I buy it. Today's wine pick is Cupcake Vinyards - Red Velvet. I'm not gonna lie. The name alone is what made me buy it! It has two of my favorite things right there on the label! Cupcake and Red Velvet. It was screaming for me to take it home. It's about $10 for a bottle and I just LOVE it. Sorry I did not have time to get fancy or creative with taking a pic of this lovely wine bottle. By the time I thought of mentioning it to you guys, the light in my house was really just too dark. That's ok though. You get the idea. Now. Go buy yourself a bottle and let me know what you think! It's just dessert in a bottle if you ask me! Mmm mmm mm!

xoxoxoxoxox

Photo A Day - Day 3

2011-02-03T20:20:00.000-08:00

If you saw my blog entry from earlier this morning, this photo will make more sense.

Most of you moms out there that have sons can TOTALLY relate to how differently you see the world ever since having him. See, I had my daughter first so there was no real shift as to how I did things. Once I had my girl, it was like having an instant little princess friend to share all of my wonderful girly ways and rituals with. It was a simple adjustment to make. Then.... durning my second pregnancy we decided to find out what the little bean was going to be. "A BOY!" I remember feeling very excited but also very

LOST!

I worried about how I was going to bond with him. I don't like dirt or mud. I don't know how to play with cars. I certainly do not know how to build anything "cool" with blocks or legos. I don't know how to play with dump trucks, tractors, or tools. What was I going to do with a son??? I felt like a failure of a mother before the little guy was even born!

Well, I can happily tell you that since having my son I have learned to open my mind to many different worlds. I love the challenge of putting together a Transformer robot. I can make amazing mud pies. I can race dump trucks like no other, and I can keep up with most of the lingo and characters in Star War Clone War episodes. Having a boy is out of this world!!! (sometimes almost literally!) The level of imagination is so very different between boys and girls. Equally gifted and wonderful, but oh so very different.

Although I love being a girl, I must admit that there is something quite special and even magical about getting down in the dirt with my son and playing "war" with lego action figures.

I love the world through my 4 year old's eyes!

xoxox

Volkswagen Commercial: The Force

2011-02-03T07:49:00.000-08:00

Ok... this is NOT my "picture of the day" post, but I just had to share! I LOVE THIS COMMERCIAL!! Seriously!?? It's like, this is my son in this costume! I adore this. I am not one to get this crazy for a commercial... but if you have a son, you probably feel as though you are watching your own home video footage!
Hope this puts a smile on your face.

xoxox

Happy "almost" Friday!

Photo A Day - Day 2

2011-02-02T20:42:00.000-08:00

I love the area I live in. We have such a variety of people in our town. All walks of life. We've been put on the map many times for being known as THE college party town. (not the greatest title to own but.. it's ours nonetheless) We're known for being the hometown of Sierra Nevada Brewery.

And now.... Aaron Rodgers. Yep! Our very own Pleasant Valley High graduate is all grown up and playing in the big time NFL now.

I must admit.... I'm not a Green Bay Packers fan. Not for any other reason other than I'm not that big of a football fan. Growing up, my family were all L.A fans. My parents and relatives are all from L.A. so we just always rooted for the L.A Lakers, L.A Dodgers, L.A Rams (when they were L.A that is) etc. etc. That being said, I still find it cool that although most people in my very West Coast town probably aren't original Cheese Heads, we support our local friend Aaron Rodgers and all of his awesome achievements and look forward to watching him play in his first Superbowl.

I love this about my town! Little Chico is growing up and it's producing some mighty fine individuals.

Makes me feel a little nostalgic. I just love the small hometown feel to Chico. It's a great place to raise our kids and call... HOME!

GO AARON GO!

Photo A Day - Day 1

2011-02-01T20:16:00.000-08:00

Well, after many great suggestions.... I got confused! LOL So many of you emailed me with some really nice ideas that I will for sure be putting in my back pocket and using on another day!! Please do not be offended if I did not use your idea. You all just made it super hard to pick with so many brilliant ideas!!!

So, thanks to Shelby S. in Redding CA. for suggesting that instead of going with ONE theme, why not do a conglomeration of all the things "I" love or things that make "me" feel loved.

I particularly liked this idea because I just have SO many different things I want to photograph. So many things I love. So many different things that make me feel loved. It's been so long since I've done a personal project that I just felt like letting my soul guide me. Sometimes when you let your soul guide you, you end up with a theme and other times you end up with a collage of wonderful things that tell the story of you and who you are!

Today I will start off with something that made my heart feel warm and fuzzy inside. I LOVE LIGHT. I love the moods it creates, the feelings it provokes.

The morning seemed so clear and sunny, but in certain spots of my little city, fog still lingers! I took a short jaunt up the road into one of the many lovely parks we are so lucky to be surrounded by in Chico CA.

And then I happened upon this!

As I headed to upper Bidwell Park there was this odd looming patch of fog in just this one area! The sun was brilliantly diffused through this haze. I absolutely felt my heart flip! I know that might sound odd to you, but as a photographer, this is what dreams are made of! Great light! Great locations! Great timing!

It was so wonderful to take a little drive into new territory. Although not very far from my home, there it was! Just waiting for me to discover it. I felt like I was in a whole new world. My imagination just took over. Oh how I wished this had been a big apple tree with red overly ripened apples on the patch of green grass beneath it. That's what this made me think of. I don't know why.. but that's what light like this does to me! It's like reading a great book! It sets your imagination free.

I love liberating moments. Although this might not be an award winning photograph, to me it was the spark of a chain reaction. I felt the creative juices flowing again. It left me wanting more! Now I know I just need to explore more. Drive around and discover new places. And most important of all.....never leave home without my camera!!!

Today I loved the way the light enveloped me and made me feel ALIVE again!

xoxoxox

{Thanks again Shelby S! Please email me your address and I will send you your $5 Starbucks card!!}

February Blog Project

2011-02-01T00:12:00.000-08:00

Wow! It's officially February 1st! Know what that means? I need to light the fire under my bum and get to doing my month of February blog project!!! I'm still in the process of figuring out what it will consist of. I know I know... "way to plan ahead Jeanette!" I can hear you all now. LOL

Well, I just roll with inspiration. Sometimes I just KNOW what I'm going to shoot and stick to it. Other times.... my mood changes from day to day. Heck, sometimes it changes minute to minute! :) All I can tell ya is that I will have SOMETHING to blog for the month of Feb! Might be a once a week post or it could be a 28 days straight project. You'll just have to tune in and see what I come up with now then won't cha!? :)

It's Midnight on February 1st as I type this line. I will end this post with a photograph but later today I will post my "official" February blog project photograph.

Until then... feel free to drop me a line or leave me a comment stating what YOU would like to see on my blog for this month. Would LOVE to hear your suggestions/input!

Help me decide what should go on my blog for the month of February!!!!!!
If I choose your idea, you will receive a $5 Gift Card to Starbucks!

xoxoxox

Out on a limb....

2011-01-31T23:00:00.000-08:00

Well, this is hardly my style. I NEVER enter my photographs into contests. There's just something in the back of my head that says it's kinda taboo for me to do so. Why? Well, I'm not exactly sure why. Maybe it's because I'm not one who likes to set myself up for judgement. Maybe it's because I don't necessarily like to draw attention to myself or the things I create. Maybe it's just because............. it makes me feel so vulnerable. I am not exactly sure why, but it's probably a combination from the list above. In any case, this contest over at http://www.iheartfaces.com/ offers FUN weekly contests. It's a safe environment where people of all levels of photography can go to just chat with other photographers, learn, create, and feel completely relaxed in a safe environment. It's not a competitive place. It's a place of great encouragement. I highly recommend you having a peek at their site if you haven't already done so.

SO... I just thought I'd search some of my favorite "face" pictures and see if one spoke to me for this weeks particular "contest." The image below is not only of an obviously beautiful Indian woman, but who's soul matches. This woman is intelligent, strong, wonderfully dedicated wife and mother, and so very inspiring.

I cannot put my finger on why I love this photograph so much. She's such a stunningly beautiful person inside and out. I think this image depicts those qualities quite accurately if I do say so myself.

Thanks for having a look at todays "out on a limb" random photo entry for me. Like I said, I don't really like to enter contests but I think this is just for FUN! I can do fun.... how about you? Get on over there and take a look around. If you love photography at all, http://www/iheartfaces.com is a great place to start no matter where you're at with photography!

Thanks for stopping by!

It's times like this.......

2011-01-28T22:47:00.000-08:00

I wish I were a wedding photographer!

Meet Dominick & Olivia! Scheduled to be married 11/11/11 in......

MAUI!

Yah. I know. Rough gig that will be right? Oooh man! I dream of photographing in places like Hawaii! What a beautiful wedding location for such a BEAUTIFUL couple!

I'm so excited for these two. So soulful, so in love, so happy!

Thanks for spending an afternoon with me you guys! I have enjoyed hanging out with you both and look forward to many more get togethers!

xoxox

{sneak me in your carry-on bag please!!!}

Congratulations!!!

xoxoxox

New Year.... New YOU...

2011-01-04T16:37:00.000-08:00

Well hellooooo there beautiful people! HAPPY NEW YEAR! Can you believe it? Another year come and gone. I must admit I'm not really all that sad to see 2010 go. Although it wasn't the WORST year I've ever had, it was a challenge to say the least. Not all bad, but certainly not all good either.

I'm not one who likes to get all caught up in the hoopla of making "New Year's resolutions." To me, it puts too much stress on things... mainly ME. Everyone wants to start a new diet or exercise more, make more money, stop smoking, take on a new project or hobby, etc. etc. etc. I'm all for that, but to me it's more realistic to make goals and better choices. Too many times have I fallen into the trap of "resolutions" all to fall short and then come down extra hard on myself. I just can't do that any longer.

Don't get me wrong. I'm not saying that resolutions aren't a form of a "goal", I just mean the whole mentality of the New Year being THE new starting point. It's as if to say, I'm going to throw all caution to the wind for the next few days or months and then I'll start "new" come the new year and wipe the slate clean. Know what I mean? There's no better time than the present. We invest SO MUCH into that one day of the year. I love the enthusiasm, but c'mon, that's so much pressure to put on that one little day!!! Setting goals is something that needs no special day. You can start on a Friday or even a Monday. You are in control, not the day. YOU make choices, don't let the day or time of year dictate the outcome.

This year I'm setting simple goals and then stretching them and myself a little further. I want to start out slow and see how it feels and how much progress I make. No pressure, but steady dedication. I don't want to just arrive at my goals, I want to go above and beyond them! Some are work related. Some are family based. Some are very deep seeded personal growth goals. In any case, I choose TODAY, random Tuesday January 4th at 4:15 p.m to start my journey! Why? Because I'm in control of where I go from here!!!!

Today I started to take chances. I made a change and it wasn't as scary as I thought it would be. If you know me, changing my personal appearance is hard for me to do. I want to lose some weight, change how I do my make up, wardrobe, and hair. It's a daunting task to say the least. If I look at all those changes as a whole, it becomes quite overwhelming indeed.... So.... today I started off slow.

Goal #1. Change my hair style & color.

(I've never colored my hair before lol)

What are your life goals? What will YOU accomplish?

xoxox

Grateful - Day 30

2010-11-30T22:18:00.000-08:00

Do you have a house that is full of picky eaters? Well, lately dinner time has become the new battle in our home. My son is fairly good about eating or at least trying anything you put in front of him. My daughter? Not so much. I think she would try to survive off of mac n cheese and chicken nuggets if she could.

All of the dinner chaos sometimes just gets to be too much for me. I prep and cook a nice meal and there's suddenly a new food critique sitting at my dinning room table!

Uuugh!

When the heat in the kitchen gets to be too much, I head out.... out to dinner that is! Sometimes you just gotta do that. Mama needs a break too ya know!?

Anyway. Today I am grateful for quiet relaxing meals and not having to do the dishes!!!!

(Greek Flatbread Salad w/Chicken @ Sierra Nevada Brewery Chico, CA. Still one of my Faves!)

What are YOU grateful for today?

Grateful - Day 29

2010-11-29T23:22:00.000-08:00

Lately I've been really swamped with photo sessions. This is by no means a complaint! It's been a truly magical year for my photography business and I feel overjoyed with how blessed I am!

Being busy with sessions means I'm also buried eyeball deep in editing and ordering and late late nights spent in front of my computer. Every now and then I need to take a break and go massage my brain! Sometimes I find the most refreshing way to take a break is to to grab my camera and photograph something new. Something I don't often take photographs of. Well, over the course of time I've found taking pictures of animals to be a good way to keep my skills tuned. It forces me to think outside the box and get to different levels than I'm used to shooting at. I love doing this. You should give it a try sometime. It's a perfect way to keep yourself learning something new every day!

Here are a few pix I took recently. I'm no National Geographic photographer, but it's still fun to tinker around.

Today I am grateful for short breaks and ways to refuel the soul!

What are YOU grateful for today?

Grateful - Day 28

2010-11-28T21:14:00.000-08:00

Well, I guess you could say I'm on a mission. Sort of like an early New Year's Resolution! This time of year can really get the best of us can't it? I mean, right around the mid section! I know it does with me. I know my body and I know when I need to put down the fork and pick up some weights! That time is now! I realize I'm no spring chicken anymore. I know I'm no Victoria's Secret model either. (God how I hate those commercials! *sigh*) It's never been easy for me to just stay one weight. I fluctuate all the time. I envy those whose weight stays the same. CONSISTENCY! I need it!

Like I said.... I'm on a mission.

My mom is such a great cook. She too is always aware/concerned with eating sensibly. She has her vino, she might have a little treat here and there, but she is so good about keeping on track. I love going to my parents house because something good is always on the table, and it never feels like a diet. Just yummy healthy/hearty food. My mom inspires me that if you just take a little time to plan out your meals, you can satisfy the family and your own taste buds as well... without throwing your diet goals out the window.

Tonight I am ever so grateful for my mom and her ability to always find the bright side and to keep me moving in the right direction. Thanks for the wonderful meals you cook when we come to visit too!

YUM!

Grateful for my Mom's cooking and her amazingly positive attitude! I admire her so very much!!!!

Cornish Hens with stuffing. Oooh yah!

(I skipped the stuffing, but dug into that golden bird!!! Mmm mm!)

What are YOU grateful for tonight?

Grateful Day 27

2010-11-27T21:44:00.000-08:00

All I can say is that I am TRULY grateful for todays client. I was asked to photograph a marriage proposal! How exciting is that??? I mean.. WOW! I felt so special being apart of such a fabulous event!!! Oh.. it was so so adorable! As most of you know, I do not photograph weddings but this couple plans to get married 11/11/11 in Maui on a beach. Ummm. HELLOOO! I could totally make an exception for that!!!!

Well, I will be posting pictures of this couple within the next few weeks, but for now I will leave you all with a little piece of eye candy from today's shoot!

Today I am grateful for new love, happily ever afters, and SPARKLY BLING!!!!!

By the way.... She said YES!!!!!!!!

Congratulations Dominick and Olivia!!!!!

What are YOU grateful for today!?

Grateful Day 26

2010-11-26T21:00:00.000-08:00

So, how many of you went out and braved BLACK FRIDAY!? What store had the best sales/deals? Did you get everything you hoped for? Well, my hat goes off to those who threw elbows with the best of them out there. I do not know how you did it. I would go CRAZY if I had to battle lines, parking, and people pushing and shoving. I'm not sure if the thought of it irritates or scares me more. Maybe it's a little of both. In any case, I was SO thankful to sleep in and wake to some internet deals instead of fighting the mobs. We got out all of the Christmas decorations, snow globes, tree, and advent calendars and started the official countdown to when the big man in the red suit will come and pay us a visit!

I do love this time of year. My only hope is that the season won't get away from us too fast. I want to enjoy every minute of it.

Today I am grateful for burning candles that smell like sugar cookies and fresh cut wreathes hanging on the door. Welcome Christmas time!!!!!!

iPhone Snapshots

What are YOU grateful for today?

Grateful Day 25

2010-11-25T23:30:00.000-08:00

O M G!

Ok, seriously, my jeans are feeling pretty snug tonight. That was an OBSCENE amount of food served up at my parents house. Oh, we are so not the traditional Thanksgiving turkey goers. Nope, my Mom and Pop are all about big Italian feasts. Mmmm Mmmmm Mmmmmm! Prime rib, alfredo rigatoni, cornish hens, and shrimp! Yes... you read that correctly. It was like a buffet! Something to please even the pickiest of eaters!! HEAVEN!

My parents ROCK! Growing up, my parents/grandparents owned a restaurant. I was pretty much raised around the most amazing food..... and lots of it! It's really no mystery why I can't seem to rid myself of these wicked 12 lbs. I was no doubt spoiled being surrounded by culinary geniuses! I'm not gonna lie, I love to eat! My dad and I share a passion for cooking.... and eating. Can't help it. It's the Italian in me!!! The best part of eating all of this wonderful food is eating it together at one big table, raising our glasses of wine, toasting and celebrating the blessed lives we share!

Today I am grateful for Thanksgiving feasts and eating until you pass out!

iPhone capture!

What are YOU grateful for today?

Grateful Day 24

2010-11-24T23:20:00.000-08:00

I'm a sucker for the holiday season, but isn't it funny/odd how everyone is almost forced to stop and take a good look at their lives when Thanksgiving rolls around. You know what I mean? All year long we have so many things to be truly grateful for, but we wait until that specific date on the calendar tells us to stop and count our blessings. This applies to all the other big holidays such as Christmas, Valentines day, Birthdays. Why is it that we wait until a magical date to give thanks, gather family & friends over for a nice meal, send a gift to a loved one, tell someone special we love them? What is wrong with doing these things just because it's Wednesday? Or because it's 7pm on a Sunday night. I think this is some of what is wrong in the world today. We've become so tied up with appointments and busy schedules that we only do things because the calendar "says so."

Here's a little fun project for all of us to try. Being that 2011 is quickly approaching, go grab yourself a new calendar for the new year and go through each of the 12 months and pencil in a few random days to celebrate simple things in life. Pencil in days to send out a "thinking of you" card to someone you miss. Pencil in days for you to take a moment to really count your blessings. Schedule a nice meal and invite friends and family over. Pencil in date nights with your significant other just for the sake of it. Let's not just wait for the commercial holidays or special occasions to be fully aware of all the wonderful things we have in our lives. Every day should be a celebration of something positive!!!!

SO, what am I grateful for today?

This a.m I was able to go to breakfast with my good friend/neighbor and our kids. Something I wish we did more often. Sitting there waiting for that wonderful coffee to get in my belly, I really felt such an appreciation for my friend sitting next to me. No matter what kind of day I'm having she just makes me feel better. Not with a lot of fluffy words or hugs. She just has a way of making me come out of a mood. She is witty and fun to be around. Her calm good natured personality is infectious.

Thank you T for the coffee and the kids fun pancakes. I hope we make more time for days like today.

I am grateful for Happy and Scary pancakes. My morning started out like the scary pancake but because of good company at breakfast, I left looking more like the happy pancake........ minus the ungodly amount of syrup my child smothered it in. :)

HAPPY THANKSGIVING DAY!!!!!

Today's pictures taken with iPhone

What are YOU grateful for today?

Grateful Day 23

2010-11-23T23:59:00.000-08:00

Have you ever had one of those days when you just need to take a step back and remove yourself from a stressful situation? Yes, I know we've ALL been there before. I'm not complaining, but today was one of those days for me. I just felt like I was chasing my own tail all day long. I worked on projects and I'd start to make some good progress on them, and then BAM! I'd run into a wall and couldn't seem to push through it without difficulty. I know mama said there'd be days like these (now that song is stuck in your head huh? Your welcome) but I just couldn't seem to get it together today.

SO, the best medicine for a hectic day is laughter.

I was browsing through some old files of mine while taking a break today and I came across this gem. O M G! This picture still makes me laugh. You know how it is... you get board so you grab your camera and dress your kid up in silly stuff and laugh until your sides hurt? Yah. It's great fun. Everyone should try it. I highly recommend it. Don't judge me. You know you all have done it once or twice too. :)

Anyway. Upon opening this file, I laughed. Outloud. Hard. It's a very juvenile thing to find amusing but, it sure did wonders for my mood tonight.

Sometimes you just have to take a break and simplify your life. You can't take it all so serious or it will consume you whole. Some people find great release in walking away from their desk or workplace for a few minutes and going and getting some fresh air. Some people find exercise to be a great release of stress and anxiety. Some people find laughing at old silly pictures of their son in a wig to be a great stress reducer.

No matter what your method is, make sure you implement it throughout your day EVERYDAY.

Find your happy place and visit it frequently!

Today I am grateful for LAUGHTER and babies in ridiculous wigs!

Ooh ooh! Look a celeb look alike perhaps? Shaun White! LOL

someone... stop me please.

What are YOU grateful for today?

Grateful Day 22

2010-11-22T21:46:00.000-08:00

Dang it!

Another busy day... but... it's because it's my little boy's actual 4th Bday today! C'mon. You know how it is right? Kids running around, crazy wound up on a sugar high, house is torn up etc. etc.

Yep! It's just been crazy around here. I want to blog more, but I'm running out of free time right now.

Tell ya what, I'm going to post a quickie and then I will hopefully be able to post an extra post here and there about all the events in between that I haven't had time to discuss. Sound like a deal?

Sorry you guys. My days are just so dang FULL lately!

This is actually a little trip down memory lane. He wasn't quite a year old yet. I love how small he was in this highchair. It baffles me to think that this is the same little man that is now 4 years old! Where o Where did the time go? The baby stage is long gone and the toddler stage has definitely started to fade. A little big boy has now emerged. As happy as I am to see what he's becoming, I'm sad to let go of his babyhood days. It's a bitter sweet feeling.

Lukas @ 7 months old.

I love you littlest buddy!

~Happy Birthday~

Today I am grateful for the 4 wonderful years my boy has given me thus far. Looking forward to many many many many more!

What are YOU grateful for today??

Grateful day 21

2010-11-21T20:03:00.000-08:00

Right off the bat I'm gonna apologize for tonight's gross blog entry. I'm sorry, but this just has to be discussed, so bare with me everyone.

My son is adorable. Sweet, sensitive, funny, hyper, adventurous, imaginative........... and a TERRIBLE AIM! Yes, I'm going there tonight. I am thrilled with the fact that he's long been potty trained, but seriously this boy would have some trouble hitting the broad side of a barn when it comes to peeing! OMG! You know, I think "I" would be a better aim standing up!!!! No joke!!! I fear for company to come over. It's like a BP station in there sometimes! Actually, some gas station bathrooms might even be cleaner around the toilet bowl than my kids bathroom. Aaaargh. Poor Lukas. I know he tries to do his best. I had NO clue that a boy could be so hard to train! How hard can it be? "AIM IT DOWN!" I tell him... but his short attention span causes him to forget what task he's performing I think. It's on the wall, the base of the bathtub, on the seat, on the lid! It's like someone turned on a rainbird sprinkler in there! I cannot tell you how many times a day I'm in that bathroom with my handy bottle of bleach and bleach wipes. I should own stock in Clorox. Blah! So DISGUSTING!!

If anyone out there has any tips or tricks on how to get a 4 year old boy to take better aim, I'd LOVE to hear from you. I've tried the whole "aim at the cheerios" and I've even put the colored tablets that turn the water blue in the toilet so he can aim at the BRIGHT COLOR IN THE BIG HUGE BOWL. I'm lost. Lost I say.

Anyway.... God bless that boy. I love him so. This too shall pass I keep telling myself. One day I'll look back and find some humor in this.... I hope. :)

Today, I am grateful for BLEACH!!!!!

What are YOU grateful for today?

Grateful Day 20

2010-11-20T16:27:00.000-08:00

It's been a very busy and FUN day today. As I sit here and type this, I stare at a mess of wrapping paper, balloons, used cake plates, and a very very happy little 4 year old boy!!!

Technically Monday November 22nd is my young man's real birthday, but we celebrated it today so that everyone could be together!

Now that the party is over and Lukas is DEEPLY involved with playing with all his new toys, my hubby and I are going to go and celebrate a little ourselves by having a little date night! I'm so excited!!!

I wish I could post more images and tell you more details, but I can tell by my husband's body language, I better start to go and get ready. :) You know how long it can take a woman to get ready right? LOL

Anyway, I will leave you with a quick snapshot of my son's cake.

It was AMAZING! Mmmmm. A very talented friend of mine Emily, made it for him. Inside is red velvet cake with layers of cream cheese frosting. AAAH! I just gained another pound looking at it! I had to have a bite or two of it. It was SO worth it!!!! I'm sure you will be seeing more of my friends work on my blog soon. She is incredible. THANK YOU EMILY FOR ALL YOUR HARD WORK! Everyone LOVED this cake! I feel a midnight snack with a glass of cold milk coming on tonight! Perfect way to end a very perfect day!

More to come! Sorry I have to split! Must go and "foo foo" a bit!

Today I am grateful for my amazing 4 year old son and amazing red velvet cake!

What are YOU grateful for today?

Grateful Day 19

2010-11-19T22:51:00.000-08:00

I remember the day my daughter came into the world. "IT'S A GIRL!" just painted a picture of sweet frilly dresses with long manicured pig tails or braids. Cute Mary Jane shoes with strappy summer dresses. Ooooh I couldn't wait to play dress up with my new baby girl!

Ooooh this dream lasted pretty much until she was about 3 or 4. When Sophia was little, it was easy to dress her the way "I" wanted her to be dressed. I did her hair in cute little clips and piggy pop pig tails. It was SO easy! She didn't know any better and just went with the flow. Certainly a toddler could care less how he/she looks right?

Well, the battles of clothing has arrived in the Krzyzek household. This girl is a SUMMER girl for sure! She always waits until the veeeeery last second before we need to be loading up in the truck for school, to do a wardrobe change! Inevitably she comes out sporting shorts and some little tank top. I tell ya, she'd wear a bathing suite and flip flops all year round if she could.

I try to be diplomatic about what she wears. I take her shopping and let her pick out some outfits that she really likes. We compromise, push pull... but I try to make it fair for both of us. We have been going round and round about proper/functional winter clothing attire for the last couple weeks now. It's not been pretty around here, I cannot lie. It's like pulling teeth when I ask her to brush her hair even! WHAAAT!? How can this be? Where did the little all the little GAP dresses go? The color coordinating clips and hair ties?

This morning Sophia came into my room all bright eyed and bushy tail to wake me up. (this is rare as it's usually a chore to get her out of bed on time! She's never up before me!) She was excited that this was the last day of school before Thanksgiving break. There she stood, dressed from head to toe, headband in hair, and happy as could be. I had to rub my eyes a few times to make sure I was seeing things accurately. No shorts? No tank top? Hair brushed with headband in it???? Surely I was dreaming!

Ok, so the outfit did not match...... AT ALL. Leopard print leggings, stripped shirt with peace signs and stars, headband with multiple colored pink rhinestones.... It was a bit of a fashion faux pas no doubt but,

so what if it wasn't a cute little winter dress with tights? So what if she had more patterns going on than a kaleidoscope? Sometimes you just gotta let go and not be such a control freak! I admire my girl for being UNIQUE! She's no cookie cutter kid. She is SOPHIA!

Today I am grateful for mismatched clothes and confidence!!!!

You wear it well my little bean!

What are YOU grateful for today?

Grateful Day 18

2010-11-18T23:08:00.000-08:00

Remember the days of pen and paper? Remember how awesome it was when you got a letter in the mail from an old friend? How about the days when you would rush home so you wouldn't miss that really important phone call because answering machines didn't exist quite yet?

Nowadays, technology has whipped us into a warp speed, instantaneous, frenzy! We have more gadgets and gizmos to keep in touch than ever before. Computers, cell phones, facebook, twitter. etc., etc. but you know what? Even with as much technology that's out there, I've never felt more disconnected in all my life!!!
I catch myself texting someone instead of just picking up the phone and calling them. I find myself emailing someone rather than getting out a good old fashioned pen or pencil and pretty stationery and writing them a handwritten letter. I find myself getting updates on how the most important people in my life are doing, via "Facebook Status Updates." Don't get me wrong. These social network sites definitely help us all keep in touch with so many people who live near and far. It serves it's purpose... but I long for a nice surprise in the mailbox. A card, a note, a letter. Nothing fancier than just a piece of scratch paper that says "I was thinking of you."
This world we live in is amazing.... spectacular even. So much is at our fingertips with just a click of the mouse. You can't help but to get swept up in it all. I mean, I won't lie to ya, I do love my iPhone and treat it like the 3rd child I never had but, let's face it. There's nothing like real human contact when it comes to simple communications.
SO, what does this all have to do with the photo I chose for today? Well, this is my cousin Cosima. We are 6 months apart in age and we have been the best of friends since birth. We did everything together growing up. I swear it's like we are twins we have so much stinkin' stuff in common. I love her dearly, yet sadly enough, I miss her. How do you miss someone that lives in the same town as you!?? What the......? We have busy lives. Our kids and work keep us quite busy and sometimes our schedules conflict, so what do we do? We text a lot. I am grateful for those texts because they do keep us "connected" or updated, but I would much rather see her in person. I would much rather hear her voice on the phone. I would much rather send her a card in the mail just because it's Tuesday and I was thinking of her because I heard Depeche Mode or the Cure on the radio. (yes.. I still listen to 80's radio stations!)
I'm going to try to get into a better pattern of being a better friend, daughter, sister, aunt, sister in law, daughter in law. I know my days can get busy so it's better to send a fast text then to get on the phone and get interrupted a million times because my kids are going nuts in the background. I just want to make more of an effort to ask the question "how are you?" and actually have the time to sit and HEAR the answer. Not come back to my text on my phone in 25 minutes to read your response. I want to actually hear the emotions in your voice when you tell me something. I want to HEAR your laughter, not your "LOL."

So, today I am grateful for this picture of me and my cousin. I miss hanging out with her and I miss all the goofy things we do when we get together! We will still text just so we can keep up to date on things, but I am most grateful for visits in person!
xoxoxoxox
Love you Coz!

(this photo makes me laugh. we were photographing a wedding together and we set up a photo booth for guests to come in and use. We brought boxes of props for guests to use etc. I miss how hard we laughed that night!!! This is us just testing out our light and camera position in our photo booth! O what fun that was!!!!!!)

WHAT ARE YOU GRATEFUL FOR?

Grateful Day 17

2010-11-17T22:44:00.000-08:00

I'm pretty sure that the following pictures says it all. Yah, it's one of those nights for me. Migraines have been apart of me since I was a young child. Although my migraines are much more infrequent than they used to be, they still kick my butt when I get one. Blah! I feel for those of you who suffer with the same horrible curse of vice gripping headaches.

I wish my blog entry tonight was more upbeat and entertaining.... but this is what I'm able to muster up tonight. Booooooooooooooo!

Sorry everyone.

At least I am still able to find something to be grateful for though! :)

Tonight I am grateful for the geniuses out there who invented pills that help to alleviate horrible pain!

Tonight I am grateful for Pain Relief meds!

I'll hopefully be feeling better tomorrow and will have a much more exciting blog entry for day 18!

Thanks everyone!

What are YOU grateful for today?

Grateful Day 16

2010-11-16T23:06:00.000-08:00

Ok, I'll admit it... this ice cream does NOT help to shed the the 10 lbs. I want off of my body... but you know what? Every now and then you just gotta get a spoon and take the plunge! Tonight was that night for me. I had a lovely dinner with my kids and husband, and afterwards baked pumpkin spiced cookies with my kids. Uuuuh. Can I just tell you how good Coffee Bean Blast ice cream is sandwiched between two warm pumpkin spiced cookies? Well, the one bite I had was pure heaven anyway. I made the ice cream cookie sandwich for my hubby. I couldn't get too carried away at 300 calories per 1/2 cup ya know. Just a taste of it was good enough for me! (well, not really but I had to keep telling myself that.)

Anyway. I could probably make myself feel guilty for indulging in such a fattening sweet treat, but why? We all deserve a little reward now and again don't ya think?

Everything in moderation!

Tonight I am grateful for sweet guiltless indulgences!

YUM....... E!

Grateful Day 15

2010-11-15T23:50:00.000-08:00

Wow, is it really the middle of November? That's pretty wild! This month if FLYING by! Work has been wonderful for me this year and as I've mentioned before, I am so very grateful for it! That being said though, I have been looking forward to winding down and settling into the holiday season. With my recent back injury, it's almost forced me into having to clear my schedule a little sooner than I had hoped/planned for.

I still have plenty to do before my season ceases up and my calendar starts to clear, but today was a little glimpse of what it'll be like to have some down time.

It was really nice to find some gaps in my day today to just sit and enjoy time with my son. I've been so busy lately that my poor kids see more of the back of my head because I'm buried into my computer editing. It's a very big give and take, push and pull at times, but it just comes down to BALANCE!

I think I'm finally learning how to do that. It feels pretty darn good so far!

Today I am grateful for GAME TIME with my son!

What are YOU grateful for today?
xo

Grateful Day 14

2010-11-14T20:08:00.000-08:00

Holy Moly!

I have been editing like a crazy fool lately! That's not a complaint though. I cannot tell you how blessed I am to have so many wonderful clients! Seriously, this year has been phenomenal. I am so thankful for the emails and the phone calls I have received from clients. Not only have I met new clients, I have made new friends! I absolutely LOVE this part of my job!

Thank you to those who have stumbled across my blog or heard about me through word of mouth and believe in me and my work enough to book a session. I have had a blast meeting each and every one of you.

Photography isn't just a job for me though, it is a passion. It has allowed me the opportunity to see into the lives of so many wonderful people and their families. I feel honored to be apart of capturing and forever preserving the memories of cherished moments. I cannot thank you enough.

Tonight, I am grateful for ALL of my spectacular clients.

Unfortunately I could not picture you all here below as some are still in the editing process etc., but please know you are very much so included in this big huge group hug!!!!

xoxoxoxox

What are YOU grateful for today?

Day 13 - Grateful

2010-11-13T18:06:00.000-08:00

Growing up in an Italian family, I always remember having a ton of family to hang out and play with. Our house was always in constant motion with family coming and family going. Uncles, aunts, grandparents, cousins. Holidays were HUGE! Oh how I love the days of having the "grown up table" and the "kids" table. I remember having so much fun sitting with my cousins and just laughing until inevitably, one of us shot milk out our nose. I wouldn't trade those memories for the world!

I look back with great joy and cherish memories of amazing Italian feasts, family gatherings at my parent's restaurant, sleepovers at my cousin Cosima's house. Oh my GOSH! I miss it so.

Now that I am grown and have a family of my own, I want the traditions to carry on. I want my children to experience the "kids table" with their cousins. I want them to always know birthday celebrations with them, long late night giggling phone conversations with them, sleepovers, vacations, etc.

Family is such an important ingredient! It gives you structure and foundation. A sense of security, stability, character, morals.... the list goes on.

So, Here's to family and continuing to carry out old traditions as well as new ones.

Today I am grateful for FAMILY!

What are YOU grateful for today?

Day 12 - Grateful

2010-11-12T22:59:00.000-08:00

She's a thinker and a little day dreamer. She loves to sing and dance and write her own songs. If there's a song playing on the radio or tv, you're sure to see her dancing or tapping her toes. She has so much spunk to her it's hard to contain!

Yes, she is feisty at times and can be a handful, but she has so much heart and soul. To me, she is the right amount of sugar and spice.

I love this little girl more than I could ever express.

I love the light that shines within her and I know it'll only grow brighter and stronger as the years go by.

Sophie girl, You are my world.

Don't let anyone stop you from dancing to the beat of your own drum......

Dream big baby girl.

xoxo

Today I am grateful for the determination, spirit, and confidence this little bean holds!!!

What are YOU grateful for today?

Day 11 - Grateful

2010-11-11T21:18:00.000-08:00

"Courage is almost a contradiction in terms. It means a strong desire to live taking the form of readiness to die."
G.K. Chesterton

Today is not just a day that we get off from work or school. There is a reason and a purpose for it. Today we honor those who have and those who still continue to fight for our country. The heroes and the she-rose that keep our country FREE. We can all debate about the politics of warfare, but it does not change the bravery, selflessness, courage, and patriotism our men and women serving our country have. Men and women put their lives on the line each day so that we remain safe and free. They are willing to do a job that the vast majority is not. That is so flippin' impressive to me.

I take my hat off to those who fight and protect my country and the future of my children!

Today I am grateful to live in the USA and for the Men and Women who fight for it!

What are YOU grateful for today?

Grateful Day 10

2010-11-10T20:12:00.000-08:00

Let me first start off by saying that I technically did not miss DAY 9 of Grateful. My internet was down in my entire neighborhood last night and did not come back up until today. HOWEVER, I did make a post on my Facebook page for my day 9... so... there. LOL I'm sorry I missed posting it here last night though! What a bummer! Hope you'll all forgive me.

Well, let's jump right in to Day 10 of Grateful shall we?

It's quite obvious what/who I'm grateful for today but it goes much much deeper than just "today." My husband is AMAZING! Not just because he's so dang handsome and drives a big huge red Dodge Ram truck. (oh wait, that's what he finds so amazing about himself. ha ha ha! Just jokin') I honestly SCORED big time when I met and married this man! He is an incredible father to our 2 children, he has put up with me and stood by my side for almost 20 years now. Whew! That right there should earn him some sort of an award don't ya think? Seriously though, he's the most sensitive, humble, genuine, caring, intelligent, comical, good natured, patient human being I've ever met. He works so hard to provide for his family. He always puts us first no matter what. He teaches me patience and he makes me belly laugh like no other. We have an incredible connection. Even though nearly 20 years has gone by, I never feel bored or at a loss for conversation. I still look forward to him coming home to greet me. I still look forward to him kissing me goodnight. I look forward to making date nights with him. He still makes my heart flutter and can create butterflies in my stomach with just a wink of his eye or flash of a smile. Yes, he still makes me weak in the knees.

There is no question about it, we were meant to be together.

Ladies, don't be jealous but when I came home today from an appointment, my husband had just finished scrubbing the toilets and was shampooing the carpets! Sexy right? Uuuuh, I told ya I scored with this guy! He's a KEEPER for sure! REAL MEN SCRUB TOILETS!!! :)

Anyway, I've been grateful for my husband since the day God created him. I'm quite certain I am the luckiest woman alive to have him in my life.

(not just because he scrubs toilets and shampoos carpets either.... although, a huge perk right? lol)

Today I am Grateful for....... Ed. My love, my husband, the father of my children, my best friend..... my EVERYTHING!

I love you with every fiber of my body, heart and soul!

xoxoxox

P.S Did I happen to mention he does dishes and dusts too? I know! I know! Crazy, but true!

What are YOU grateful for today?
xo

Day 8 of Grateful.....

2010-11-08T20:29:00.000-08:00

Today was one of those days that I just needed to get away! I knew that wasn't a possibility so I just chose to revisit a memory in my mind.

5, 4, 3, 2, 1...... Take me to that happy place.

Today I am grateful for the happy memories that keep it all real!

I have a funny feeling I will be revisiting this happy place on the blog very soon.

{more Disneyland images to come}

What are YOU grateful for?

Grateful - Day 7

2010-11-07T23:41:00.000-08:00

Ok, I'm just going to come right out and say it.... this picture makes me smile! For SO many reasons. Oh sure, at first glance the image is funny for obvious reasons. I mean, how simply adorable is this elderly couple squished into a bug bumper car at Disneyland? To just look at this picture you could arrive at many different assumptions, but you know what? You'd be wrong!

When I first saw this Indian couple, I thought "hmm, they must've been beaten and dragged here by their son or daughter and grandchildren and FORCED to partake in all the family fun. Surely they are not enjoying this and would rather be someplace else!" As I continued to observe this couple, I couldn't help but to giggle when the electric bumper cars started to move. Neither of them took steering wheel to try to control it. They just quietly sat there with their hands on their laps letting the car take them where it may while occasionally getting bumped by goofy grinned wide eyed giggling children. I kept looking around trying to identify someone in their family/party but didn't seem to notice anyone. When the ride finished, they slowly stepped out of the vehicle and shimmied their way over to the exit. As he helped his wife to her little metal walker that was strewn with Disneyland bags from gift shops and such, I still did not notice any family or friends or grandchildren gathering around them. I smiled at them as they shuffled by me and they both nodded politely and gave me a sincere smile. He put his arm around his wife to help her along.... still, no family members in site.

As we gathered up our little "motley crew" we headed out to other little rides in the "Bugs Life" park. We hopped on board to the little ride called "Heimlich's chew chew train." This ride is for the very young.... or shall I say, young at heart. There just 2 rows ahead of me was this same cute little Indian couple! Snuggled close, enjoying the simple amusements of Disneyland together.... ALONE! These two did not have family with them. There they were. Just two sweet love birds, young at heart, at the happiest place on earth!

I just loved these two. It made me feel so happy inside! God bless these two! I just wanted to hug'em!

So, even though the still photo of these two might seem to tell a different story, I can assure you that it is quite the opposite. They weren't angry, they weren't forced to be there, they weren't taken hostage and dragged there by their grandchildren.... they were simply and utterly content with growing old together, but staying young at heart. Pretty awesome if you ask me!

Today I am grateful for everlasting true love!!!!

A picture isn't always what it seems....

What are YOU grateful for today?

Grateful For.... Day 6

2010-11-06T21:18:00.000-07:00

Today was a very busy day. I was testing the by doing 2 back to back shoots today. Amazingly enough my back held up for a good chunk of my day. As I finished my last shoot and climbed in my truck, my back started to really stiffen up and ache. I knew the last thing I wanted to do was stand in front of a stove and cook dinner. So, on my way home I picked up a pizza for the family.

Aaaaaah. Home!

We sat around the dinner table and gobbled up our pizza and talked about how everyone's day was. Lots of giggles and stories to go around! These are the times I cherish the most. There's nothing like family time. I remember sitting around our dinner table when I was a little girl. It's just a wonderful way to keep all lines of communication open. A way to stay close to one another... build everlasting bonds, share... laugh and love. I wouldn't trade these memories for anything!

My blog entry tonight is short and sweet. I'm exhausted from a long days work, but my heart is full and content.

(so is my belly. I think I also overdid the pizza too)

Tonight I am grateful for cups of ice cream and belly laughs exchanged between two siblings while sitting on the kitchen floor.

Does it get any sweeter?

I love when I can catch them like this candidly!

{swoon}

What are YOU grateful for today?

Grateful For.... Day 5

2010-11-05T21:04:00.000-07:00

Lately I've been feeling a little nostalgic. I was looking through some of my kid pictures of myself and I just can't help but to miss the old Polaroid days!!! The days of film! Gaaaaah!!! I love it and miss it!!! Not enough to reinvest in all the cameras, film canisters and developing/processing etc. though. I just miss the simple artistic feel and look each image had! Remember that crackle sound of the disposable flash on the 110 film cameras? OOOH~ I can hear it now! So cool!

Anyway, I'm taking a stroll down memory lane these days. I'm editing my pix a little "old school". It's not the same as the real deal... but it'll suffice!

Today, I am grateful for FILM and shirtless little boys who ride hot wheel skate boards!

OLD SCHOOL BABY!

xoxoxox

What are YOU grateful for?

Grateful-Day 4

2010-11-04T23:08:00.000-07:00

What a day today. All things considered, it was a pretty productive day. The news from the doctor wasn't very good, but will I live? You bet! I just need to keep on pluggin' along and try to find new ways to improve my status. I'll tell you one thing, this injury has really made me take a good hard look at how much I've actually neglected. I've been on the go constantly. I've been doing sessions back to back to back. Editing until the wee hours of the morning. Saying yes to things that I know good and well that I do not really have room or time for. I just want to do it ALL! You know what I've come to realize? I CAN do it all...... just NOT ALL AT ONCE! I'll admit it. I'm a bit of a control freak. I don't accept help very easily. I am not saying that I do things perfectly or even the most efficient way possible. I just have a fear of letting go and allowing myself a break. Look where that's gotten me egh?

Anyway, I am a firm believer that things happen for a reason. I believe that my back injury was a way of getting my attention. It was a way of telling me that I need to slow down and prioritize my life better. I think I confuse "slow down" with "let down." I'm so afraid that if I don't keep going and moving constantly that somehow it shows sign of weakness or failure. As if to say, "I can't keep up." I'm afraid of letting others down. It's a personal battle I realize, but my heart is in the right place and I only have the best intensions.

This injury has been in the making for several years. The pain has always been there, I just simply ignored it. Didn't want to be a burden, didn't want to cost our family any extra money. It was bound to happen and I knew it. It was just a matter of "when?" Well, "when" is here and now it has forced me to reevaluate how I continue to do things. You know what? I'm actually really grateful for this opportunity. I feel this will be a fantastic time for me to regroup and come back a lot stronger.

I absolutely love this time of year. The days are getting shorter, there's a crispness in the air in the evening, colors on trees are changing. Winter is coming. It's a wonderful time of year for me. I go into that "nesting" mode. Know what I mean? I want to cook and bake more. I want to take on home projects. The holidays are around the corner. There's such a sense of calm for me during this time of year. There's never a good time to have an injury, but I'm glad it happened during the changing of the season. It made me slow down and take a look around at all the beauty that was surrounding me. I haven't felt this peace in a long time.

So, what am I thankful for today?

~ Change ~

What are you thankful for today?

Grateful

2010-11-03T22:17:00.000-07:00

The hardest arithmetic to master is that which enables us to count our blessings.

~Eric Hoffer

As I caught my breath from all of the wonderful sessions and editing I've been doing lately, I sat down with a pad of paper and pen (you still remember what those instruments are right? LOL) and wrote down some projects I wanted to tackle next. #1) BLOG/Personal photo projects! Oh how I have longed to have a fun no stress project to look forward to. As I laid my head down onto my pillow on that Wednesday night, I closed my eyes and smiled as thoughts fluttered through my head about what personal projects I would soon be creating. Aaaaah. Bliss!

I'm glad I fell asleep to happy thoughts because what happened the next morning changed EVERYTHING.... at least temporarily.

6:45 a.m my alarm goes off. I get out of bed to start my usual morning rituals of going and waking Sophia up for school, getting breakfast started, making and packing her school lunch, etc. Then.... without any warning as I bent down to pull some clothes out of the dryer - - - - -

SNAAAP! A pain that I have NEVER felt before ripped up my spine, into my stomach, up through my chest, causing me to lose my breath. My hands started to sweat and my vision grew narrow and I almost passed out. Each attempt to breathe made the pain worse. I thought to myself... "am I having a heart attack? what is this pain!" It was HORRIFIC! Yep..... my back was a goner. I was literally stuck in my laundry room for almost 40 minutes until my husband could get home from work. I could not move. I tried not to scream too loudly as I did not want to scare my children any further, but they knew something was maaaajorly wrong with mommy. Well, Sophia knew anyway, Lukas was wondering where his cereal and toast was.

Sooo, fast foward 7 days later to today. I'm able to walk again (amen!) and the pain is nowhere near as intense as it was. It's still painful and stiff but for the most part, I can actually do some normal tasks without gasping or squealing too much. Oh, and I can breathe again too so that's been nice. Sooo, until the MRI results are in I will just try to move forward as best as I can.

What a mess huh? I had very high hopes of starting a November project where each day of the month I blog about something I am grateful for. Might be a major thing, might be something as minor as.. oh I don't know.... say sneezing without being afraid my back will go into a spasm? LOL That'd be interesting to photograph egh!? I'm still going to tackle this project, I just hope you'll forgive me for starting this project on the 3rd day of the month instead of the 1st! I will go ahead and post 4 pictures tonight to make up for it. Cut me some slack now people. I've been laid up for over a week. My iPhone pictures will just have to do! Hey, my blog-my rules right? He he he!

Thanks for hanging in there with me people! I hope this simple project will inspire you to start a blog or journal all of the things you are most grateful for in life!

Tonight I am grateful for......

My children sleeping safely in their beds.....

grateful for his hazel eyes.......

Grateful for toothless grins

What are YOU grateful for?

xoxox

Simply Sweet

2010-10-01T11:24:00.000-07:00

Baby Ejler

(pronounced I-ler)

This little sweet pea was just 6 days old when I photographed him. By far, one of the strongest newborns I've ever had the pleasure of photographing! By strong, I mean he did not want to curl or bend into any of those squishy newborn positions. Ejler had other plans for me! That's quite alright little man. I think we still managed to capture your sweet newness all the same! I look forward to our next photo shoot!

xoxox

PUSH!

2010-09-20T18:57:00.000-07:00

"When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, "I used everything you gave me."

~Erma Bombeck

So! You guys know me by now. I get into a good groove of blogging and then all of a sudden....... nothing but the sound of crickets. You'd think I fell off the face of the earth! Sometimes I go through these episodes. It's not for a lack of trying or that I've burned out with my photography. It's simply me doing some soul searching. I do this a lot. I think it's important to take a step back from time to time and really figure out which direction you are headed. I want to make sure I'm challenging myself and keeping true to being authentic and original. I have this fear of blending in and fading into the background. I do not want this for myself. I want to push myself to do work that really represents ME and what's in my heart and soul. This isn't always easy to accomplish and requires periodic maintenance and occasional restructuring.

Let's face it. Photography is a very saturated market. It's not easy to be an "original." It sometimes seems like EVERYONE has a camera and sets up shop and goes into a photography business dreaming of making a fortune overnight. It sounds great, but that's not really what my goal is. I don't want my work to be "cookie cutter." I don't just pick up my camera and take photographs to make money. I take my camera with me everywhere because you just never know when the perfect moment will strike! Taking my camera with helps me to learn, grow, and continue to be a better photographer. It's so easy to get caught up in the "latest & greatest" trends out there. There are so many amazing photographers in the industry. It's tempting to want to mimic what they do! This is when I need to step back and make sure that the work I am creating is truly "mine" and not a borrowed trend or style of someone else's. Being inspired by another artist's work is one thing... but having your own unique touch is really what makes you stand out! I am most proud of my work when I know it came from my heart.

Anyway. The moral of this very long story is that I'm still here! I'm not looking to reinvent the wheel or go MIA for a long period of time. I'm just doing a self check to make sure that the only voices in my head I'm answering to when it comes to photography, are my own. I want to make sure I keep churning out work that truly speaks to me and represents who I am. Producing work that is authentically mine! I want to continue to push myself harder and challenge myself to my fullest potential. This process is all about self discovery and I LOVE IT! I never want to stop growing as a person or photographer!

With all that being said and done, I WILL BE BACK ASAP! Nothing is wrong. No rough bump in the road. Just feeling a change for better on the way!

And... because a photography blog entry just seems naked without a picture......

This expression sums up how I'm feeling inside right now! I'm BURSTING with enthusiasm to push myself to the next level!!!! I'm really looking forward to this journey!!!!!!! Hope you'll be there with me!

xoxoxoxox

Holding On While Letting Go

2010-08-23T10:16:00.000-07:00

Walking into the barber shop, the elderly gentleman asked my son, "how would you like your hair today son?" Lukas replied, "spiky please." He's been wanting a spiky do for sometime now so I thought sure! What the heck! It's his hair afterall.

As Lukas climbed up into the big chair equipped with a little booster seat, cape draped around his little neck.....the clippers came out. I knew from the first pass of the clippers that it was NOT going to be a spiky do that Lukas had requested. It was going to be much shorter...... much.

I sat there and watched my son morph into this little man! He just looked different to me. Still very boyish, but just...... older! I was both proud and sad at the same time. He's my baby for goodness sake! How is it that he's growing so fast!? Even though I know I have many years until the "empty nest" syndrome kicks in, I feel the need to hold on extra tight to my children's youth. I do look forward to meeting the adult version of my children one day..... just not anytime soon. Know what I mean? I realize I cannot stop them from growing, I just have to learn how to hold on while letting go.

{I believe more than ever that the passion I have for photography was purposely imprinted on my heart and soul. Photography chose me. Photographs are more than just getting a cool shot of your kid, family, friends etc., It's freezing time. Preserving it. Documenting your imprint in this world for however long we are here for. It's letting the world know YOU existed and here's YOUR story to prove it. It fascinates me! I never ever tire of it.
What memory will you preserve today? What story do you want to tell?
Get out there and just CLICK!}
xoxox

btw, even though Lukas didn't get the "spiky do" he requested, he still liked the outcome. He's pretty easy going that way. Typical boy. No time to fuss or get upset over hair. He had better things to do... like go home and play in the dirt.

Mama Mia!

2010-08-16T23:42:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I'm guessing there was something extra magical in the water about 17-18 years ago?? The high school seniors I have been photographing have been off the charts beautiful! Seriously.... what gives!? Not only outwardly beautiful, but matching personalities to boot! What a win win situation.

Meet Emma.

She's gorgeous, polite, smart, athletic. A girl who is on her way to the top no doubt about it! I had the pleasure/honor of photographing Emma a couple of weeks ago. She was so much fun to work with. I think (fingers crossed) you might be seeing a little more of Miss Emma on my blog from time to time in the near future, as well as her older sister! I have a few projects in the works for this fall and if all goes well.... these lovely gals will be helping me out! So excited!!!! (TBA)

Sooooo. Without further adieu,

Emma 2011

Brown Eyed Girl~

2010-08-04T23:00:00.000-07:00

Recently I had the honor of photographing this "soon to be graduate," from Reno NV! If you don't want to fall under this girls spell... please, look away now. Her brown eyes will melt you.

Ok.. fine.... don't say I didn't warn you.

Meet Ashley. This girl is not only beautiful, but smart, sweet and as genuine as they get! I have gotten to know Ashley and her wonderful family over the years now and was SO excited when they chose me to do her senior portraits. YAY ME!

Thanks so much for trouncing all around town with me Ashley. You were a real trooper. I hope you enjoyed your much deserved french fries after the shoot!

Enjoy your Senior year girl!

xoxoxoxox

P.S.

I will accept payment in SHOES! Particularly the leopard print ones. Thank you in advance.

Sincerely,

Your photographer...

PROPS!

2010-07-06T13:01:00.000-07:00

So, I have to give a little (big) shout out to Michelle Black! She is an amazing photographer as well as design artist! Remember my senior portraits I posted on here not too far back? Well, I ran some of Michelle's incredible actions on those to make them SING! You should take a moment and go check her out if you haven't done so already. She is one of the nicest people you'll ever do business with or just chat with about photography! I feel very lucky and proud to be a PERMANENT TESTER on her website!!! I'm over the moon to be a part of her team!

What are you still doing here? Go... go! Go see what Michelle is up to over at her site!!!

sample of SOOC (straight out of camera) and one with Michelle Black's Creme De Royale action!!

Party of 10~

2010-06-30T10:39:00.000-07:00

A little summertime fun goes a long way.

Meet the "generations". This group of ten was a lot of fun. Full of energy, full of life! The greatest part of being a photographer is watching a family interact. That is when the magic happens. THAT is what you want to document.

I could really see and feel the love this family has for one another. I could've sat and watched Grandma play with her grand-babies all day! She soothed them, encouraged them, guided and directed them in a gentle fashion, and played and giggled with them. So loving and patient. It was a real honor and pleasure hanging out with this lively crew of 10!

xoxox

I love how she's a little apprehensive in this picture......

Going for it......

Like a pro!

Love the interaction here

doing what grandma's do best..... comforting & and making it all better

Happy once again!

So Angelic!

WHEW! We did it! We managed to get everyone to look at the camera at the same time! YES!~

Little "A", your personality cracks me up! I will get more pix of you w/o making faces! I promise you that little buddy! LOL Can't wait to see you guys again!

The "V" Family

2010-06-29T12:21:00.000-07:00

Wow!

That is the word that comes to mind when I look at this family. This family was absolutely gorgeous... both inside and out! Just look at this good lookin' group! The eyes, the lips, the smiles! My goodness. That's a whole-lotta pretty (and handsome) for one camera to take! :)

Aside from their stunning good looks, this family was incredible to work with. So kind and so gracious. I felt so at home!

Thank you very much "V" family. I enjoyed our session together! I hope you did too!

Worlds Apart

2010-06-08T23:17:00.000-07:00

We counted down the days until he had to depart, and when the day finally came.... it was painfully harder than we had anticipated.

My husband has taken a new position with his company. A promotion some would say, but to my kids it feels a bit more like an unwelcome interference to their playtime schedule with daddy. My husband's new position does take up more hours of his day than his old position. Like any new promotion, this is to be expected. Promote = more work. This also means that he'll have to travel a bit from time to time.. I say to myself, "I can handle it. A few days of alone time, just me and the kids?Might be a nice change for a couple of days here and there."

And then we got the news.

My husband would be leaving for INDIA!

What a whirlwind of emotions. I was excited for him. What a fantastic opportunity!!! All the things he would see and do. WOW! I was almost envious! Can you just imagine all of the photograph opportunities I'd have!?? Ok, so this wasn't about me. Fine.

After the excitement wore off, (and that was only for maybe 12 seconds) the reality of how long he would be away sunk in. 16.5 days! That's 396 hours! 23,760 minutes! 1,425,600 seconds!!!!

Knowing how far away he'd be just felt odd. The distance between here and there just seemed so unfathomable.

As the day finally arrived, we drove my husband to the airport. I kept Sophia home from school for the day so she could spend as much extra time with her daddy as possible. She was being brave but I could tell her stomach was knotted up. Lukas on the other hand had his adolescent carefree mind to his advantage. He was none the wiser to the big picture. He knew daddy was leaving, but he had nooooo comprehension of just how long or just how far away. I suppose that was a blessing.

I hate long goodbyes. They never go well. It's painful and heart wrenching to drag it out but you just can't help it. It's like a band-aide. You know it's best to just tear the dang thing off and be done with it.... but instead you him-haw around trying to avoid the inevitable.

My defense mechanism under these circumstances is to photograph. It helps me to process and put things into perspective. It sort of helps remove me from what's happening so that I can better cope. It's a therapy no doubt. I kept telling myself, "I have to be strong for my children!" Even though my heart was shredding into a million pieces.

Sophia is a lot like me. Sometimes she just needs to sit quietly and take a moment for herself.

A little time for some thumb wars........

Reassuring he'll be back....

This image breaks my heart......

(is it wrong that I was aware of that "hertz" sign and wanted to incorporate it into the image? I'm a bad mom I know.)

See what I mean about Lukas? Not a care in the world. The world is a biiiig happy playground!

but.... eventually reality temporarily sets in.......

As you can see from the pictures above, Sophia was quite distraught. Lukas was a bit more jovial. Infact, after I took the last photograph of my husband boarding the plane, Lukas just stood there next to his sobbing sister and said........... "Yah...........I'm gonna miss that guy."

xoxoxox

Senior Graduate 2010!

2010-05-11T14:03:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite times of year. The sun is shining (for the most part) school is winding down and people are gearing up for summer vacation!!!!! Wooo hooo! There's just a certain buzz in the air! Can you feel it? Yep! Graduation is here! What an exciting time for these young adults. Finishing school and starting a new chapter of their life! I remember the feeling well..... even though it was light years ago. ;)

Meet Heather. She is G O R G E O U S! Like I needed to tell you that right? Not only is Heather a smart young lady, she is also one of the sweetest, loving, respectful ladies you'll ever meet.

I had a lot of fun working with Heather. Her sunshine attitude and her country spirit just made my camera sing! I think Heather will probably be revisiting my site later this year as well, so be on the look out for that!

Congratulations Heather.... Grad 2010! Look out world! Here she comes!

(I also must introduce the handsome young man in these photos too! Say hello to Dustin! He was charming and such a gentleman! Good luck to the both of you! You seem to be a perfect fit for one another! )

Baby "L"

2010-04-15T22:25:00.000-07:00

This is such an amazing time for me as I watch my business grow and get closer to an official launch of my newborn photography line! Oh sure, I've always done newborn photography, but I'm in the process of really trying to fine tune and put my signature on my style of newborn work. There are so many fabulous photographers out there that specialize in this type of work... and let me tell you.... WOW! There is some fierce work out there! I find myself drawn to newborn photography. Maybe it's the fact that I know I'm not having anymore children myself so it helps to fill that void?? I don't know. I find it feeds my soul to know I can get my fix with these precious babies! Simply put, newborns just captivate me. I want to capture them in the raw... the new... the now. I adore the lanugo fuzzy hair on their backs and arms, ears. I love the flakey skin. I love the loose wrinkled skin, the yawns, the perfectly pouty lips, toes, belly buttons, eyelashes...... OH MY WORD! I could go on and on. No really, I could... but I think you have the idea. ;)

Anyhow. I hope to spend a little more time expanding on this area of my work. New life is nothing short of a miracle. What a true blessing that I'm allowed to come into people's homes and witness this wonderful joy! It's so rewarding to build these memories. I love my job!

Heather and John:

Thank you for allowing me to come into your home and steal a little sliver of your new son for those few hours! It was lovely to just hold that little peanut! He was a real trooper. And let's not forget little "C" too! What an amazing toddler he is. So sweet! Those chunky little legs had me the moment I walked through the front door. H E L L O adorable!!!!

You are such a beautiful family. Congratulations on your new addition! I hope you enjoyed our session as much as I did!

Meet 'Lil "L"

Clouds in my coffee......

2010-04-06T12:34:00.000-07:00

Today the reality of my husband traveling more frequently for his company has finally sunk in. I'm so very proud of him and his accomplishments with his company, yet I cannot help but to feel a sense of panic, anxiety, and mental overload.

As he prepares to head out to India for 2 weeks I feel the walls around me starting to close in. Oh sure, for the first few days it'll be nice to have time to myself in the evening after the kids are in bed fast asleep. Long uninterrupted soaks in the bathtub, late nights of catching up on projects without having to worry or guilt that I'm not giving the proper attention to my husband, etc. etc....... but honestly, I know I need to prepare myself for more than just that. My daughter is already showing signs of horrible separation anxiety knowing daddy is about to go far far away. I know my kids will need a strong mother to lean on while he is gone. Taking on the task of being mother & father is quite the undertaking. Can I do it? Of course I can, but it doesn't mean it won't have it's trying moments.

I realize I am not the first woman to hold down the fort while the hubby is away. I have it rather mild to say the least. Look at all the spouses who hold down the fort while their significant others are deployed in the military for months to years at a time! I count my blessings. I am most grateful that I only need to endure 14 days. (roughly 336 Hours, 20,160 Minutes, 1,209,600 Seconds give or take.....)

I was instant messaging a good friend of mine this morning and we were chatting about how overwhelmed we can get as moms. Just as we were chatting, I saw an update on another good friend's facebook profile talking about a little "mommy meltdown" moment she was having. I suddenly didn't feel alone. Here are these other two women dealing with similar situations as I was...... and you know what? They were sorting through it all one day at a time as well. Perhaps half the battle of conquering your fear(s) is knowing you are not alone. When we realize we aren't alone it makes the task at hand seem a little less daunting. Will I be lonely without my husband being here? ABSO-FLIPPIN-LOUTELY!!! But, will I be "alone"? HARDLY! I have my two beautiful children here to keep me company! I have wonderful friends to help lift my spirits, and an amazing family to call on for support if need be. Perhaps not all 336 hours, 20,160 minutes, and 1,209,600 seconds will be all grins and giggles... but we (I) will get through it.

After having a fun conversation/pep talk via instant message with my friend today, I went to grab my cup of coffee and get on with my day. Here is what I found in my cup!!

See, even my coffee was telling me to stop and see the bright side of things!

New Skin

2010-03-17T11:43:00.000-07:00

There is nothing sweeter or more fascinating than photographing new life. The many expressions and sporadic movements intrigue me. It amazes me that we all started out so tiny and pure and innocent. When I photograph newborns, some have asked me why I don't photoshop out the flakey skin or little dry patches. In all honesty, I LOVE the fine details! I adore photographing the little natural effects that occur on newborn skin. I love the little fuzzy lanugo on the backs and arms of babies! I can't get enough!! I just can't seem to find a reason to erase those beautiful little details from my images! Why would you want to!?Aaaah! I just melt like an ice cream cone on a hot summer's day when I get the opportunity to photograph a newborn baby!

Here is a sneak peek of Baby David. Such a tiny little peanut and oh so sweet. He was awake for most of his shoot, but thanks to his mama, she was able to get him to drift off for a few shots. Thank you Amanda!

(more pix in the editing process as we speak!)

(thank you Stacie B for helping me position little D as well. You made my job a lot easier by being there to help!)

Finding balance....

2010-03-04T16:32:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone!

Sorry, I have NOT fallen back into my old routine of not blogging. This week has been interesting. A little bit of an eye opener too.

I have a very close knit little family. We do everything together, but somewhere along the way of my normal hustle and bustle of daily household chores, gym, photography, etc., my daughter shared a bit of a concern with me. One that made my heart a little sad. She said that she felt like I was always on my computer and not available to play with her sometimes. Ok... OUCH! It's been hard to find the balance between roles as an at home mom, a wife, and a photographer. I try really hard to limit my time on the computer editing, but sometimes it's just not avoidable. It can be a lose - lose situation at times. There have been so many times that I think I should hang up my camera and my goals for a bit and focus more on my children and their needs. But is that the right thing to do? This comment that my daughter made certainly made me sit down and take a long hard look at how I do things. I need to learn how to have structure again. When I was in the work force, working for someone else, I was on a very specific schedule. Since becoming an at home mom, I must admit my skills at organization leave a lot to be desired. Having an open ended schedule has made me a bit lackadaisical. I must make a change. I never want to look back and have regrets that I wasn't "there" for my children. I don't want my kids memory of me to be the back side of my head or my face being stuck in front of a computer! I don't want to miss out on what I preach about the most ..... "being in the moment."I know my heart is in the right place. I know I try my hardest to be a great mother and wife. I try to disperse myself evenly to those who need me and tasks that need my attention. I don't think it's selfish of me to want to thrive in my own personal goals and career though. I'm trying so so hard to learn the ins and outs of this fast moving industry of photography. Juggling so many roles has thrown me into a bit of a tailspin. My daughter clearly brought that to my attention.

I'm sure many stay at home parents have been in this situation before. I realize I'm not the first who needs to figure out how to succeed at being a superhero. The fact that I'm aware of it says I'm on the right path to finding balance. Is there a way to give my all without giving up all of "me" in the process? Let's face it, it's SO easy to put yourself on the back burner isn't it? The guilt creeps in and before you know it, you forget what it is that makes your soul feel happy. Don't get me wrong, I realize my children and husband make my heart and soul happy... but I'm talking about "content". I think if I were to hang up being a photographer I would become a HORRIBLE mother and wife. That just can't be an option to fixing what is wrong. Restructuring the way I do things can be though! I have my work cut out for me. In fact, I'd be MORE than open to hearing how some of you stay at home parents balance finding time to do ALL of the things that your family needs and the things YOU need.

Anyway.... in light of having a very heartfelt conversation with my daughter, I found out that one of her favorite singers is coming to Chico State University!! Colbie Caillat!! I snatched up 3 tickets. One for Sophia, one for my mom and one for me. 3 generations going to a girlie girl concert!!! Needless to say, Sophia was THRILLED! I thought it was the perfect way to spend some much needed mother-daughter time together. I think she agreed too! :O)

The concert is tonight! We're off to dinner and hot chocolate before we go to the concert! I'm looking forward to this evening so much. I'll let you know how it goes!

Here's to making much needed changes!

xoxoxoxoxox

To be continued.........

2010-02-28T21:19:00.000-08:00

"Beginning is easy... Continuing is hard"

~Japanese Proverb

WOW! I did it! 28 days straight of blogging! What the heck!? I'm impressed with myself, but not just because I completed my mission, but for how much I learned. Not only did having a deadline give me something to focus on, it forced me to take my camera with me everywhere I went. Were some days harder than others? You bet! But the process of consciously making the effort to follow through has been AMAZING for me. Let's face it, our days can get mighty busy. We are tugged from all different directions. There are days that I am just excited to get out of bed and out the door with my hair and teeth brushed!!!! In the beginning of "project 28" I felt myself panic a bit when I didn't know exactly what to take pictures of for that nights blog post. I would feel frustration when an image I had planned out in my mind belly-flopped and failed. I felt my anxiety levels soar when time got away from me and I still didn't have an image. Truth be told, what I loved most about this project was how it eventually taught me to let go a little. To not FORCE situations/moments to happen. I might've set out with a vision in mind for "the" photo I wanted to capture, and come home with a completely different image that was just as, if not more significant then the original idea! This is how I try to photograph my clients. I might have ideas for images prior to the shoot, but honestly the best pictures are the ones that are unscripted. They are the ones that just make you gasp when you see the moment unfold and you snap the shot. I. Love. Those. Moments! Life is unpredictable. It's spontaneous. Being there in the moment is what it is all about. When you plan or try to control it too much..... you really lose sight of the true essence of life. BE IN THE MOMENT! The images will follow.

Tonight's photo is a great example of allowing the moment to call to you. For about 2 months now, I have been trying to capture the little body parts of my kids that just make my heart pitter patter with sheer happiness. The parts that I know I will forget if they are not frozen in time. I will know that I "loved" their tiny toes, ears, lips, but will I REALLY remember how they looked? I felt the need to document these very important features. I've been fairly content with accomplishing this little project, but there was this one image that I could never seem to capture just right. My son has the cutest little "monkey fuzz" on this back and shoulders. It's this little soft hair that just makes me sigh every time I see his bare torso. When I pick him up and hug him, it's that little nook between his neck and shoulder that I love to kiss. I want to remember this part of him... forever.

All this being said, I was sitting in my kitchen today while Lukas was playing with some toys. He was in front of the sliding glass door and I glanced over at him and saw it! This was the light! This was the image that I had wanted for so long! It might not be an image anyone else can appreciate, but as his mother, it's one I will cherish forever and ever and ever. I love the monkey fuzz, and I finally have it frozen in time.

Thank you all for following along with me over these last 28 days! I couldn't have done it without you guys! I don't know if I can blog every single day from here on out, but I sure will make it a high priority to do it more often for sure! I hope you will do the same. Get out there, enjoy the moment, be in the moment, and take your camera with you everywhere. Life is happening all around you all the time.

XOXOXOXOXOX

28/28

to be continued......

Popsicle Kisses....

2010-02-27T22:45:00.000-08:00

"Never underestimate the effectiveness of a straight cash bribe."

Claud Cockburn

In this case, the bribe was a simple popsicle. I think I got off pretty easy this time.

27/28

*sorry guys! I haven't much to write tonight as I just got back from having a lovely evening with my family. It's late, and everyone is full of wonderful food & exhausted from laughing and playing.
Thanks Sis for a fantastic evening! We enjoyed it very much!!
XoXoX

Rain

2010-02-26T20:25:00.000-08:00

"Bad weather always looks worse through a window."

~Author Unknown

It was a rainy day. His heart was uneasy. He missed his sister. He. was. bored!!!
In my own personal experiences, I've learned that the best thing a parent can save for a rainy day is patience..... and a fresh new stash of Playdough isn't a bad idea either!
We managed.
Even got a smile or two.
xoxoxox

26/28

Monkeying Around

2010-02-25T23:36:00.000-08:00

"If you pay peanuts, you get monkeys."

James Goldsmith

I knew he wasn't really in the mood to have my camera in his face so I had to bribe him with a kids meal from Burger King afterwards. He agreed to "try" to help me with my pictures today if he could bring just ONE (which means 5) favorite stuffed animal with him. Seemed like a reasonable request to me!
Once we got out to the field, Lukas really wasn't giving me much camera sugar. It was getting to be a daunting task for the both of us. I kept asking BEGGING him to work with me a little. You know what he said to me? "You get what you get and you don't pitch a fit".
Ok.. those are MOMMY'S words! Huuuuh. I hate when my own words come back to bite me on the butt!
It was pretty funny though. He was pretty impressed with himself too. He is my comedian NO DOUBT!

It wasn't a total loss today though. We just kept it light and simple and ran around and explored a lot. Lots of lady bugs, rocks, sticks and mud to investigate. We had a lot of fun and laughs.
Turns out, "Monkey Bones" had a pretty good time too!

25/28

Do over please!

2010-02-24T20:12:00.000-08:00

"Failure is only the opportunity to begin again, only this time more wisely."

~unknown~

Ok.. so this image isn't a total failure, but it lacks full potential. Here's the deal. I have been taking my camera with me EVERYWHERE lately. Today was no different. UPS store, Trader Joe's, Safeway... you name it, it comes with me. You just NEVER know when the moment is going to strike you. Lighting, a new structure, a grassy field, a cool abandoned building. You must be prepared. (insert sound of needle scratching across a record) Wait, did I just say that? Guuuh! Yes I did. I knoooooow to be prepared, but for some lame reason today, I wasn't. I didn't plan on the right outfit for my son. As funny as that sounds, it's true. This picture could've been so much more had he been in the right get up! DANG IT! Lesson learned. Maybe I'll have to start toting around a little suitcase in my truck full of different outfits for my kids... you know.. just in case! :)

I suppose there is always tomorrow. That's the fun part about driving around. You just keep your eyes open for new nooks and crannies to shoot! Who knows, maybe tomorrow I'll find an even better spot! In any case, I'll be prepared! You can bet on that!

xoxox

24/28

Counting to 10

2010-02-23T12:22:00.000-08:00

"Housekeeping is like being caught in a revolving door. "
Marcelene Cox

It's been a stressful day to say the least. I realize it's all part of being an at home mom. I won't complain too much because I do know how good I have things. However.... I cannot always wear a smile on my face when one of the kids spills red juice on my light colored carpet after having JUST told them to stay at the table with it. I cannot wear a smile while constantly cleaning pee off of the bathroom floor after my 3 year old son is done in there. I cannot wear a smile after looking at the mountains of laundry piled sky high waiting for me to fold and put away.

If I cleaned each mess as they occurred in my house, it would be the ONLY thing I'd do with my time!

Today I kind of felt the walls closing in around me. Breakfast dishes, playdough messes, laundry piles, needing to clean bathrooms, needing to fit in my work out, run errands, pick up daughter from school, , figure out dinner, etc. etc. etc.

"Breathe Jeanette." I tell myself.

"breathe"

I choose to count to 10.............very very slowly.

I figured I'd post a picture of something soothing and calming today. These flowers were left upon my doorstep from my best friend/cousin. I felt a little tension leave my shoulders when I saw these. She had NO idea the kind of day I was having today... just simply left me a little happiness on my doorstep.

Perfect timing....I'm almost to 10....

23/28

Working Man

2010-02-22T10:46:00.000-08:00

"At the working man's house, hunger looks in but dares not enter"

Benjamin Franklin

This is a normal scene in my home. Each day of the week, early to rise, breakfast with the kids, maybe a quick game of chase or hide and seek, a tickle fight or two, then off to work he goes.

We appreciate all of his hard work, all of the sacrifices to provide for his family.. He is a working man, a family man... a great man.

xoxoxox

22/28

Out of nowhere

2010-02-21T22:25:00.000-08:00

"No winter lasts forever; no spring skips its turn."

Hal Borland

I honestly do love autumn and winter, but I must admit I get a little excited when I start to see the season turn. Signs are showing that Spring is on it's way. Things are turning green, leaves are budding on trees, blooms are showing off their gorgeous colors. Yes.. it's coming... very very soon!

I do not know where this flower came from. I did not plant it, it simply just appeared. I'm glad it chose my yard to grow in, as my yard was looking grim. A splash of color against the dried out weeds has certainly made my eyes quite pleased!

( i never said I was a poet.. LOL I think I'll just stick to photography..... )

21/28

Dinner and a Movie...

2010-02-20T22:12:00.000-08:00

I am so blessed to have a man that thinks of me and loves me in such a way that makes me feel beautiful. I know I expressed my feelings for my husband in my Valentine's Day post, but.... I can't help it. He continually makes me feel special.

My husband knows me so well. I do not like to make a fuss over my birthday. I haven't been excited about a birthday of mine since I was maybe 10 years old and received the most awesome "I {heart} Andy Gibb" t-shirt!!! (don't judge me.... secretly you liked him too, or perhaps it was Mr. Cassidy?) Anyway... I don't like a big production for my birthday. That being said, my husband took it upon himself to wait until our babies went to bed and I went to take my shower. While I was in the shower, he was busy setting up a sweet little surprise for me. When I came out, I walked into my bedroom and saw a dozen long stemmed roses, a bottle of wine, take out from my favorite sushi restaurant, a yummy piece of cheesecake, and a netflix movie .... all laying on my bed. It was PERFECT!!!! To me, it was EXACTLY what I wanted! Dinner in bed, a movie and dessert... with the most amazing man in the world? YESSS!

I'm a simple woman. It honestly does not take much to make me happy. I don't need fancy jewelry or flashy gifts. All this girl needs is to love and be loved by her incredible husband.

It was the perfect end to a perfect day.

I highly recommend dinner in bed. You must give it a try if you haven't already.

:O)

xoxoxo

20/28

Night and Day

2010-02-19T20:49:00.000-08:00

"Opposites are not contradictory but complementary."

Niels Bohr

It's true, they can be so completely opposite in personalities and behavior but it's what makes them so unique! Sophia is a very thoughtful young lady, but she is also very cautious and careful. Lukas is very sweet and sincere, but usually throws all caution to the wind. He is my risk taker. She is my "thinker"..... but no matter how different they might be from one another, they are both equally strong willed!

xoxoxox

19/28

Smooth Talker

2010-02-18T19:55:00.000-08:00

"I can live for two months on a good compliment."

Mark Twain

He's got a way with words. He'll do well with the ladies one day. How can I tell? Well, while I was busy trying to clear my memory cards on my camera the other morning, (still in my p.j's and not all the way through my first cup of coffee mind you...) Lukas looked at me and said "You're hair looks crazy today mama... and I like it!"

Smooth talker! Only he can say that and make my heart flutter......('lil punk!)

18/28

Better Out Than In.....

2010-02-17T22:10:00.000-08:00

Whew! Today was crazy crazy busy! I wasn't sure I was going to get a picture for my 17th day of blogging! I got nervous. Time was getting limited. I was scrabbling around at Costco doing our big grocery shopping and I kept thinking about needing to get home to blog!!! But what to blog!!? That thought was eating away at me.

When I walked through the door, there was my Sophia..... very dramatic and upset. Her tooth was loose and it was freaking her out because it was dangling there! EW! "Pull that dang thing out already girl! It's making me want to throw up!" I shouted, while racing to grab my camera. Drama? YES! I have myself a blog project!

Ok.. so.. the lighting was TERRIBLE. You guys know how it is right? That horrible yucky yellow bathroom lighting at 7pm? Yep! NIGHTMARE! Bare with me here people! It's been 17 days after all. Those of you who know me know that this is an A M A Z I N G accomplishment for me! :O)

Anyhooooooo! Hope these pix help to tell Sophia's story. It was very emotional for her. I think it just freaked her out more than anything. I know it did me! I can't STAND loose teeth. They creep me out soooo bad. BLAH!

She's sound asleep now, and the tooth fairy is on her way!

17/28

Forks Optional

2010-02-16T19:07:00.000-08:00

"All happiness depends on a leisurely breakfast."

John Gunther

There is something so sweet about seeing my little boys face from across the table. His over sized plate with a huge chocolate chip pancake and syrup makes him look even smaller. I could stare at my children for hours when they are involved with doing some sort of activity. Especially eating. Normally my kids just push and poke their food around their plates and find a million excuses NOT to eat it. This particular day was different though. With all that chocolaty, syrupy sweetness, Lukas just couldn't resist. Forks optional!

Y-U-M!

16/28

Nothing better than sweet syrupy kisses!

xoxox

I Scream, You Scream.....

2010-02-15T22:15:00.001-08:00

We all scream for ice cream!!!!

Today felt like the "false" beginning of Spring! As much as I love the rainy weather (and Lord knows we need it!) it was a pleasant surprise to see the sun today.

I love my neighborhood. It's the kind of 'hood that garage doors open and kids of all ages come pouring out to play with one another and parents gather and catch up on weeks events. It's the kind of neighborhood that pulls together and looks out for one another. The kind of neighborhood that just makes you feel like family is just next door.

15/28

You

2010-02-14T17:45:00.000-08:00

"You are the butter to my bread, you are the breath to my life."

Julie & Julia

It's not just because it's Valentine's day that I write these words. I feel great passion and love for my husband every single moment of every single day. Ok, there might be some moments that are not as lovey dovey and I want to scratch his eyeballs out (or visa versa).. but... for the most part, my man completes me. I have been with my husband for almost 19 years total, married for nearly 13 years. Our relationship never feels forced or awkward. After all of these years I still feel that we are the same two kids that met in college. We've seen and done so much together. We've grown up together. From college, to traveling Europe, to getting married, to having 2 children...... the journey just keeps getting better and better. After so many years together, I love that we still find so much to converse about, yet not worry or panic if we just sit in silence. I love how we can finish one another's sentences or know what the other is thinking with just a simple look. It's amazing to me how the laughter never dies down or fades away. His jokes are just as funny to me today as they were 5, 10, 15 years ago. I adore how he continually finds new creative ways to sweep me off my feet. I love how I still feel butterflies when I look at him from across a busy room. All it takes is a flirty wink and I feel my heart melt. I find it thrilling that our relationship manages to find new ways to evolve into something bigger, better, stronger, more passionate.

I used to worry about growing old, but ever since meeting my Mr. Right, I fear nothing at all.... as long as he's with me.

Today is Valentine's Day, but for us, it's just another day. No pressure to find the perfect romantic gift. No pressure to make the perfect dinner reservation. For us, every day is a bit like Valentine's Day!

Thanks for being my Valentine on any given day of the week sweetheart!

xoxoxoxox

14/28

I love you, you sexy beast you! :O)

P.S

Btw, the brownies pictured above were made by a friend of mine, Deena from Deena's Desserts & Delights! Let me just tell you, my trainer is NOT going to be happy tomorrow morning when I jump on the scale! These brownies were amazingly good. I heated them up a bit... had them with some coffee... and O M G! My taste buds were in HEAVEN! Mmmm. They were so worth the butt kicking I'm going to have to endure tomorrow morning at the gym!

Thank you so much Deena!

DEENA OSBORN

OROVILLE, CA

530-680-5301

pinkcakes4u@yahoo.com

Break in the weather

2010-02-13T22:19:00.000-08:00

"I've never seen a smiling face that was not beautiful."

Today was a very very busy day for us. I must admit it was a bit of a challenge to squeeze in time for a well thought out photo shoot and blog entry today. I know there will be days like this during this project, but I will continue to do my best to keep to my mission! One picture, Once a day, for 28 days. I can do this..... I can do this!!!

Sorry this post is hitting the blog so late in the day but, better late then never right?!

xoxox

13/28

Picaso

2010-02-12T23:16:00.000-08:00

"The true painter strives to paint what can only be seen through his world."

André Malraux

Plaid pants and no shirt. He's my little Matthew McConaughey in the making. As close to naked as he can possibly get. It must help him clear his mind so he can create his wonderful masterpieces of art!

12/28

Without You...

2010-02-11T19:14:00.000-08:00

"What is the opposite of two? A lonely me, a lonely you."

~Richard Wilbur~

He missed his daddy today.

As sad and helpless as it makes me feel to watch him tuck himself into a ball and be angry with the world, I find it quite sweet that he loves his daddy so much.

11/28

Candy Hearts

2010-02-10T21:42:00.000-08:00

"When you love somebody, your eyelashes go up and down and little stars and hearts come out of you."

Angela Age 6

Giggles and mouthfuls of candy hearts. That's pretty much what we accomplished during our mini shoot today. No complaints here.

xoxox

10/28

Guitar Hero

2010-02-09T20:49:00.000-08:00

"Music is the universal language of mankind"

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

No matter what the setting is around you, there is never an excuse to NOT capture a moment. The lighting might be crumby. The subject might not be sitting in the most desirable location, but... you know what? It's those specific instances that make up the most wonderful memories and photographs. Document it all. The diamond in the rough is there.

9/28

Unconditionally

2010-02-08T19:24:00.000-08:00

"The best thing about having a sibling is that you always have a best"

Cali Rae Turner

They fight with one another, they tell on one another, they lean on one another, they love one another. There is nothing more gratifying then watching their relationship blossom. Through thick and thin, the bond grows stronger.

XoXoX

8/28

(Hey! Does anyone else see the heart that kinda forms from the way their bodies are together? Just me? Am I delirious from my fever? Anyone? Bueller?)

Zzzzzzz.....

2010-02-07T15:35:00.000-08:00

"Eat little, sleep sound." ~Iranian Proverb

Apparently, this is true.

Are you seeing a pattern form here? I'm thinking that maybe there's something in those cheeseburgers!

7/28

Littlest Buddy....

2010-02-06T20:54:00.000-08:00

"Before you were conceived I wanted you
Before you were born I loved you
Before you were here an hour I would die for you
This is the miracle of life."

Maureen Hawkins

Simply put, your angelic face melts me. Your laughter warms me. Your hugs make my heart sing. You complete me.

xoxoxo

6/28

Eye Candy

2010-02-05T12:32:00.000-08:00

“Anyone who uses the phrase 'easy as taking candy from a baby' has never tried taking candy from a baby.”

I'm pretty sure my kids get their sweet tooth from my dad and my father in-law. No matter how much I try to minimize sweet treats, my kids STILL crave that pure cane sugar morning, noon, and night! The other day I caught both of my kids in the refrigerator trying to squirt whipped cream into each other's mouth.

Ok secretly, between you and me...... I can see the appeal to that one. Mmmmm.

Anyway. This picture was taken yesterday at Cost Plus World Market. We were rounding the corner to the candy isle and.... well, I think it's pretty self explanatory how Lukas felt about it.

(the lighting in world market is TERRIBLE for photographs by the way... so.. although this image lacks good clean light... it's still a keeper to me!)

xoxox

Happy Friday!

5/28