Postcards from Pam

24 hours later

2011-09-16T21:58:00.003-05:00

Nearly 24 hours old, and still all I can say is PERFECTION!
Note to Grandma B: bringing prints and dinner for all of you tomorrow.

God smiled on us today!

2011-09-15T21:55:00.003-05:00

The newest branch on our family tree was born today.
Ben William arrived at 4:04 pm weighing in at 7 pounds 7 ounces
21.5 inches long. He is the most beautiful baby I've ever seen and
it was love at first site for all of us.
Congratulations to the new parents, Abby and Joey.

Abby's first call was to her sister, Katie.

Happy Birthday sweet baby Ben.

Hello again!

2011-07-31T22:00:00.003-05:00

It's been far too long since my last postcard.
A lot has happened during that time which
you can read about on facebook, but I miss
my blog.
Doing the Shimelle's Explore class has
inspired me to get back here, so I will
start with the project she has me working on.
Oh, and have you met *him? My newest little gem.

When you don't want to be on a boat

2010-06-22T02:21:00.002-05:00

Being out on the lake all day is a nice, relaxing place to be
until someone says,
"Look at that!"
and you look over your shoulder to see
the most unusual cloud you have ever seen.
That was the end of our three hour tour.

Options in an Instant

2010-05-27T23:37:00.003-05:00

Black and white
or
color?

Black and white?

or color?

Recently I pulled out my film camera after finding a roll of black & white film
in the deep recesses of my fridge.
I haven't used my old film camera for a few years
but it felt good in my hands.
I put on my favorite lens and went outside.
The little neighbor boys were playing in the backyard.
I went over to them and asked them if I could take a few pictures.
They are such cute little guys, with these heartwarming smiles.
Their baby sister and mom came out and posed with them.
Without giving much direction to them I started shooting.
Those 24 exposures went by fast!
I had to laugh when the youngest brother asked to see them
(on the back of my camera).
I explained that this was a different camera and they would
have to wait to see the photos.
That statement even struck me funny.
We are so used to the instant gratification of viewing what we shot
just seconds after the capture, that it seemed foreign to have to wait.
When I finally got them back, I pulled them out of the envelope right away.
The look, the feel, the texture, the NEGATIVES......
I wondered why I ever deserted film for digital.
There is just a quality (in black & white) film that I
cannot seem to achieve in digital.

Until tonight.

The orange lillies are in full bloom under my cherry tree.
I grabbed my camera, switched to the macro lens and started shooting.
I had the sprinkler on earlier and all the little droplets of water
falling from the tree landed all over the lillies.
I don't think I would have got the shot I wanted without
the luxury of checking the led screen and the histogram, telling me
that I had to change the aperature down a couple of stops.
Finally, after way more than 24 exposures I got about 5 shots I loved.

Then my little girlfriend walks over with her paci and pink blankie.
BAM! One single shot and I got this one that makes me smile.
With a macro lens!

Knowing that I can easily change the color to b&w sitting here at
my computer made me happy that I have options.

I still plan on shooting the rolls of film I purchased the other day.
I think it's good to keep a hand in it to keep me on my toes.
But it's always nice to have options.

Baseball Fever

2010-05-18T19:58:00.002-05:00

I have been photographing this little guy since he was a baby.
The parents are religious in contacting me on his birthdays
for an updated portrait.
He just turned four years old so it was time for a session.
I think this set has been my favorite of him so far.
Such personality and energy he has!
He loves baseball and has a very good, level swing.
The above is one of several that I just love
so had to share.
Happy Birthday Dominic!

A Little Piece of Peace

2010-04-25T14:59:00.002-05:00

Isn't this a beautiful view?
It is what my bff and her man look at
every day, right out their back door.
Calm, peaceful, beautiful.

But - it doesn't come easy.
They work hard to keep it looking so nice.
In fact, my bff's life seemed to be endangered
just last week when her trusty tractor began smoking.
Thankfully, she escaped unharmed.
It meant she was in shape to prepare
a delicious meal and entertain a group
of close friends last evening.
We came armed with chocolate cake and
fishing gear (after a stop at the expensive plastic
worm store, where I was WAY overdressed).

We arrived to warm greetings.
Sure, it rained a little.
Yes, there was a threat of severe thunderstorms
and a possible tornado.
Actually, when I asked D. where we were on
that storm map they show on tv, he
pointed to the highlighted red triangle,
the eye of the storm.

It's funny how relaxed you can be in that
situation with a group of friends
and a few margaritas under the belt.

I thought it was beautiful out after the storm passed.

Just look............

We even saw a huge rainbow, with the moon
just over the top right corner.
You don't see that here in this photo
because I had left my camera in the car.
(That's why I needed it, dh)
J. was kind enough to retrieve it for me,
but by the time he returned the
rainbow was gone.
But I saw it.

Then we saw this...........

I really love stormy days.
Days that you can curl up and sit on a swing,
chat with friends sitting next to you,
eat, drink and be merry.

It was a very nice day.
A little piece of peace.

Stress Relief

2010-02-22T00:32:00.003-06:00

There is nothing as calming as strolling down the
paths of Paris while the orchids are in bloom
(even if it is a "mock Paris" at the Botanical Garden).

Come and take a look at what Deb & I saw on
our mission to de-stress last week.

Did you think there were so many types, colors,
shades, and shapes of this lovely flower?

One was more beautiful and unique
than the other.

We even got to see one of our favorites
in the stages of bloom.

The RX for stress-relief worked.
We both walked out happy from our little journey,
each of us bringing home our own potted orchid
to remind us of the beauty we saw today.

Camillia in Bloom

2010-02-19T16:57:00.002-06:00

My sweet little Chloe's middle name is Camille.
We took her to see all the pretty
Camillia's in bloom at the botanical gardens
last week. She was so excited to see
her namesake flower.
I still think she is the prettiest one in bloom.

If I were Rich & Skinny

2010-02-09T19:56:00.004-06:00

This is what you would see me wearing on the first day of Spring.
I love those boots.
But, since I can't seem to kick my m&m addiction,
or have a spare $790 laying around for a single outfit
I guess I'll just stick with
my cut off sweats and flip flops.

Must be the cold weather and all this snow getting to me.

The Postman Rang Twice

2010-02-07T00:29:00.003-06:00

Chloe loves to get packages in the mail.
Today she hit the jackpot.
Not one, but TWO packages
came addressed to her.

The content had been anticipated.
Flat Petunia was returning from her
visit to JoLynn way across the
other side of the state.
JoLynn and Flat Petunia had some
wonderful adventures,
including a trip through two other states.

She traveled all over, learning about
things that were made in Kansas City,
gathering chocolates from their factories,
visiting a Presidential library,
working in the Pembrook Hill School bookstore,
taking a trip to Crown Center,
seeing the beautiful fountains,
going to a minor league stadium,
checking out the best barbecue spots in town,
and visiting some very fancy shops and lunch spots.
She even got stranded in a snow storm in
Iowa with JoLynn and her other friend, Loydene!
She was exhausted when she returned home.

I wonder, if I lay under a steam roller,
would I flatten out enough to be mailed
in an envelope?

Thanks so much, dear JoLynn,
for making this a wonderful and educational
experience for my little girlfriend.
You're the best!

Contemplation

2010-02-05T19:51:00.002-06:00

Isaboo

2010-02-01T22:39:00.004-06:00

This little girl worked for her chocolate.
She wasn't really in the mood to pose that day
until I showed her the tube of m&m's I had
hidden (from her mom) in my pocket.
Just scroll on down and you will see that
I am the one who was rewarded.

free-falling

her beloved Belle

champion twirler

this pose got her a bonus extra handful

loving the fancy tutu

Thank you, Isaboo, for sharing
your Saturday afternoon with me.
I sure had fun.
xoxo

The Little Girl

2010-01-25T18:56:00.002-06:00

I had the pleasure of my little girl's company today.
She is a busy little thing, but so good.
She asked me if I would like a piano concert
and I got a front row seat.
Such talent at 18 months old!

After the concert she pushed a chair to the window.
She doesn't like to miss any of the action going on around her.
When she takes that "pas" out of her mouth
you get to see those cute little teeth.

Life would be boring without this little midget.

Emerging

2010-01-25T10:57:00.003-06:00

As I was shooting this photo I was struck by how this little girl
is growing up.
Gone is that sweet round face and the toothless grin of yesterday.
Today, when I saw this through the lens, I could see the beautiful
young lady that she is becoming.

Is it possible to be happy-sad?

New Project

2010-01-23T23:03:00.004-06:00

What is this, you ask?
It is something I found on this very cool blog
One Hundred Photos
I am going to do it.

I don't have a theme yet,
but here is a photo I shot today.Two delightful girls
who served me breakfast in bed
this morning.

Maybe my theme will be
Nice Things
or
Things that make me happy.
I'll have to sleep on it.

It's a Lucky Dog's Life

2010-01-17T19:54:00.003-06:00

Meet Jackson.
He's is the very pampered pet of my friend, Sandy.
A full sized standard poodle, he stands taller than me
on his two back legs.
He is gentle enough to let her dress him up at will.
Today, it was this very colorful, eclectic knit scarf.

And here is Kip.
He is the other very pampered dog of Sandy's.
Kip will tolerate a bandana,
but no scarf for him.

And here are all three of the pampered pooches,
watching their mamma leave.
Notice Beanie in the lower right window?
He doesn't like anyone near him.
Jackson is on the far left,
standing on the bench with his head
touching the ceiling.
Bye-bye mamma! We'll be waiting for you right here.

Delicious!

2010-01-11T21:09:00.003-06:00

My friend, Colleen, is known far and wide for her famous brisket.
I drool when she tells me she is making a brisket.
Her family risks life and limb to grab a piece before it is served.
She made one last week.
Guess who it was for?
ME ME ME!
I couldn't wait to dig in and savor each bite!
Not only did she send me the brisket,
but a fruit salad with my favorite - blackberries,
the buns, provel cheese,
and a yummy rice casserole!

As I was heating the brisket last night
people started coming over.
What? You're hungry?
That smell? I don't know what you're talking about.

Okay. I had to share, but nobody got to eat anything
until I made this perfect little plate for me
and took a photo of it.

My tribute to Colleen.
Queen of Brisket (and many other things).

Thank you, dear friend.
We enjoyed every single bite.

The Big Chill

2010-01-10T14:43:00.004-06:00

Isn't this a beautiful sunset?
I took it while illegally parked down along the river.
Across the road there was an open field with over 20 deer grazing.
It was all just breathtaking.

It's hard to imagine that there is beauty to be found
in the frigid temperatures we are having.
Glen found this for me and I went back late yesterday to shoot it.

It is my statement of January.

Tomorrow I will be sharing on of the most thoughtful,
nicest gifts that I received for my birthday.
It came from my very best friend,
who also shares her birthday with me.
Happy belated birthday Colleen.
Hope you enjoy your books as much
as I will enjoy your gift!

Another birthday shout out to my friend, Kayte.
She also shares the same birthday as me.

Go Capricorn girls!

Too Late

2010-01-07T23:56:00.003-06:00

Seeing that I wasn't my old self this fall
I was too late
putting my clay pots away for the winter

getting the bird feeders cleaned and repaired

bringing in my little stone statues and furniture cushions

covering the patio furniture and umbrella
(isn't that the most awesome window hanging?
a gift from my best pal, Colleen)

and lastly, getting in my new garden of Spring bulbs.
I wonder what the conditions are of that "guaranteed to grow" promise?

Maybe next year.

Snow Berries

2010-01-04T23:24:00.003-06:00

You have to leave the city of your comfort and go into the wilderness of your intuition. What you'll discover will be wonderful. What you'll discover is yourself. ~Alan Alda

My 2010 Word

2010-01-04T00:08:00.004-06:00

TRANSITION.
[noun - movement, passage, or change
from one position, state, stage, subject
concept, etc., to another]

That is my 2010 word.
I have decided to write another chapter in my life.
Step onto a new path.
Finally, finally become dead serious about my passion.

And also, I vow to stay out of Barnes & Noble for a month.

Miles of Memories

2010-01-02T22:01:00.003-06:00

Ode to Chloe's Pink Shoes

These little pink shoes, so loved and so cherished
Had to be put to rest as the shine did perish.
Sadly, they no longer fit the little girl who loved them so.
They took her many places, with so many more to go.
One day they were shiny and new
but the miles were hard on those pink shoes.
They traveled to school, on field trips, to church,
shopping, and movies, then home on their perch.
They jumped rope, rode a bike,
fast on a scooter, took many hikes.
They were good sturdy shoes for the girl's little feet
but now it is time
for this little shrine
to be put in the scrapbook of mine.

Welcome 2010

2010-01-01T23:59:00.003-06:00

My mother was sweet enough to notice that I had brought my camera along
when we had to run out to do some errands.
After the errands were done, she asked me if I had wanted to take some photos.
Of course, if she didn't mind driving in the snow. (she's getting pretty brave)
I had this place in mind to shoot the big old tree.
What a bonus it was when she went down a side road, looking for a good
spot to park, that these four beautiful horses were feeding!
As I was aiming my camera out the window, the black one in the
pretty red coat turned, looked straight at me, as if to pose.
It was as if he was saying "Here you go. Take this photo that will get
you really excited. I'm not going to stand here all day like this."

Thank you, black beauty! What a great way to start my 2010 portfolio!

Happy New Year to All.

Chef Academy

2009-12-30T16:19:00.005-06:00

For years my sister's culinary skills have been, how can I say this nicely,
a little below sub-standard level.
Take the time that she proudly served pork chops that had been
breaded with Raisin Bran (she thought it was like Corn Flakes).
Not to mention that my nieces and nephews thought for years
that the smoke alarm was the dinner bell.
You can imagine the shock and delighted surprise I had
when she proudly walked in with this beautiful platter of
home-made items.
And they were GOOD! I mean really good!
For two weeks she would come home from work every day
and bake or make some kind of treat.
All of us got something, but I think mine was the best.
I'm so proud of you, little sister!
Just wait until next Thanksgiving.
No more "just bring soda" for you.

I, on the other hand, have always loved to cook and bake.
When I saw the movie Julie & Julia I just had to get my hands
on that cookbook.
Let me just say.........this book was published in 1961 when most
women were home all day and could start dinner at 1 o'clock in
the afternoon.
I planned a special meal for my special husband.
His favorite vegetable is asparagus.
According to Julia, asparagus is no good unless it is peeled.
By hand. With a paring knife.
I had bought 2 bunches, so it took me 45 minutes just to do that task.
I soaked them in one pot as I peeled them, while a second pot
was on the stove with the water preparing to boil for cooking.
After ransacking the house for twine, I tied the asparagus into
their little bundles and dropped them in the pot.
On to the hollandaise sauce.
Actually, mine turned out perfect the first time, but took
forever to make, and again, several dirty dishes in the making of it.
The beef was wonderful.
Add some plain buttered noodles, a salad
(with bottled dressing) and we had a wonderful meal.
Glen was absolutely impressed and appreciative.
I was exhausted. My kitchen was a disaster.
Last night we had sandwiches.

So, sister, here's to us.
I think this is what we were really cut out for anyway.
Ball gowns and (good) beer.

My Holiday People

2009-12-29T22:25:00.005-06:00

Another year gone by,
another Christmas gone by.
Nothing left but wrapping and trash
that won't be picked up until next Saturday.
However, I keep the smiles and warm memories
of my favorite moments all year long.
These are a few of them.
This is my little Einstein getting his laptop from mom & dad.

He was so surprised! I can't believe they kept it secret from him.
Now he wants to go to Barnes & Noble with me for the Wi-fi
(whatever that is)

Nothing makes my mom happier than a hug from one of her grandkids.
Especially this little one. She doesn't give them out too often, but great-gram
always gets one from her.

What's this? Little Miss Smarty-pants got a laptop from Santa?
You bet. Just like Ralphie in A Christmas Story who only wanted
a red ranger rifle. All Chloe wanted was a laptop.
How could Santa not see that she got one?

"Grandpa could you pretty please hook up wireless internet for me?"
(it was in the next day)

Here's that sweet little Grace with the pretty face again!

Talk about sweet.......little Lexi is one of the very sweetest girls I know.
She is my great-niece and one of Chloe's best buddies.

Honk! Honk! Outta my way!
It's the naked baby behind the wheel of her
cartoon car.

One of a set of twins. This is Kylie and her mamma.
She is my great niece also. They are adorable!

Hey! Who gave me these fake pearls?

Tomorrow.....the biggest surprise.
My sister actually baked! And it was good!

My holiday home

2009-12-29T00:24:00.004-06:00

Things were done simply this year, due to my inability to climb a ladder
(or the basement stairs for that matter).
All in all I was happy with how the holiday spirit and a few decorations
were in my home this year.
This is what was hanging from my dining room chandelier. A little greenery
and a few of my Shiny Brite ornaments that were my grandmothers.
My antique sled that stood by the front door.
Three little frosty's.
Lindsay put the greenery on my breakfast room chandelier.
I think I might keep it up all winter. I love those snow berries.
My Santa, circa 1956.
A very simple mantle this year. Glen & I decided it would be nice to have
nothing more than our favorite photos of our dads nestled in a some snowflakes
with a few white lights. It made us happy.
This ornament makes me smile.
The Ho Ho Ho photo frames that never got any photos
looked pretty sitting on the piano.

Tomorrow.........
a few of my favorite people shots from Christmas.

I WON!

2009-12-21T14:31:00.002-06:00

I can't believe it! I WON the contest I just blogged about!
I am sooooo excited for myself! :) A perfect weekend with Karen Carey
at her Art & Commerce Workshop! What a lucky girl I am!

No pics today, but a funny story.
My two nieces, ages 8 & 11, are staying with us for a couple days
over their Christmas holiday. Add to that Peyton, 10 and Chloe 9,
of course our little miss, 17 mos. old. We have been having a great time.
At 1pm this afternoon I was in the kitchen, still hadn't even brushed
my teeth or taken a shower yet, wearing one of Glen's flannel shirts,
my red & white snowflake pj bottoms, when the doorbell rang.

All 4 big kids ran to see who it was. They flung the door open and
one of them yelled "It's the man from TV". What? "You know that
man from TV for Christmas!" they repeated excitedly. OMG! Was
this a newsperson, did I win the Pub. Clearing house sweepstake?
What were they talking about? They kept calling me to hurry to the door.
Okay.....I'll either be humiliated or looked at like a crazy lady, or both.

I get to the door to see the Incredible Edibles delivery guy, doing
his best to keep from cracking up. It was just like the commercial
we had seen last night for those gorgeous carved fruit bouquets!
A lovely gift from our thoughtful Pittsfield folks. A delicious gift too!

So, we came in, took photos of it, then proceeded to carefully pull out
the chocolate covered strawberries, followed by grapes, cantaloupe,
and fresh pineapple.
What a welcome surprise it turned out to be.
Even if I'm not going to be on tv. (whew!)

Thanks so much, Jim & Brenda!

Wish #11

2009-12-18T20:21:00.003-06:00

Design Aglow has done it again.
I'm drooling and gasping over new information they
have put into my head.
They have the greatest products and information for
photographers, really cutting edge stuff.
I love getting their loaded to the brim
Article Collections - every issue is always full of
things that help me out as both a photographer
and a business owner.
The blog is full of shares from other photogs
using their products.

Now they are having this workshop........

Just the images alone make me drool.
Look at that charming studio! (gasping)
If anyone (Santa) is wondering what to get
the girl who says she has everything,
this would make me really, really happy!

And now......
back to our regular programming.

Wish

2009-12-18T00:28:00.002-06:00

When you wish upon a star...................

My Top Ten Wish List for Christmas:
1. That I will get to wear 2 shoes
2. All of our large, white outdoor lights will change into colored bulbs
3. I will escape the flu
4. My family will escape the flu (so I don't get it)
5. All my photos will be straight again (when I get to wear 2 shoes)
6. The house will be clean on Christmas day
7. The elves will come in and wrap all my gifts
8. I get a seat in church on Christmas eve
9. We will have snow (just a little) on Christmas morning
10. That everyone remembers what we are really celebrating

How about you?

another thank you

2009-12-14T14:01:00.004-06:00

just had to throw this one in because it's so dang cute.

This is an elf in the true sense of the word.
She has helped me so much over the past 2 months.......
painting and decorating my living room and dining room,
hauling tables and chairs around for Thanksgiving,
cleaning my house, running errands,
all while taking care of her own little family
and working.
I love this little elf.

Thanks, Linz.

Another thing checked off the list.

2009-12-14T13:53:00.003-06:00

This is the house that Pam built.

These are the kids to pose with the house that Pam built.

These are the outtakes of the photos of the kids
who were supposed to pose
in the house that Pam built.

Next year.........Hallmark.

Road to recovery

2009-12-11T00:11:00.006-06:00

No Parking. That's what the sign said.
The little birdie didn't pay attention.
Neither did my mother. I wanted that shot.
She parked so I could get it.
I downloaded my CF card tonight and found that I had only taken 167 photos since October 31st.
That's just not like me. I usually do that in my backyard. Half of them were taken while sitting in a wicker chair on the front lawn shooting away while my daughter power washed the front porch.
You can tell I was on drugs (legitimately, recovering from a minor surgery). So I had to throw those out right off the bat.
The ones that I'm sharing here were taken from the car as my mom was driving me around.
Bless her heart. She's been my chauffeur, nurse, maid, laundress, and cook for the past four weeks. Add to that, my photo assistant. She really wants me to get well now. It's been too long.
Back to these photos. These were taken at dusk in Cottleville, along Highway N. Those familiar with that winding road, especially at that time of day, know that there is more traffic than there should be and it's not easy to pull over or slow down to shoot which is why I've never had the opportunity to take some of these in the past.
My chauffeur found a good spot to get off the road. She even inched along and slammed her brakes on (whiplash) when I asked her, politely, to stop.

She really wants me to get well.

I am at the halfway point today.
This road to recovery has been a long one,
and I've got some new CF cards to fill.

A little share of love

2009-11-13T23:06:00.003-06:00

This was my last Littlest Heroes shoot with the charming Elijah. He was such a joy to work with and a very, very smart little guy. I was glad that Jeff captured these photos for me while I was working. There's no better payment than a genuine hug!

Speaking of a little bit of love........this sweet little baby, Charlie, just happens to be one bundle of joy in the true sense. See how proud his new parents are? I hear that the entire family is pretty smitten with this little boy. What a cutie. I could have taken him home with me.

Back off to bed.
I've got a foot to heal.

East meets West

2009-10-26T21:29:00.005-05:00

My lovely friends, Loydene and JoLynn.

Loydene relaxing on her dream sofa at Neil Hill's in Briarcliff. See the lovely view from the second floor window?

Lisa tells us one of her entertaining stories, using her hands of course, while waiting for our delicious lunch at The Webster House.
Yes, JoLynn, the Mac'n cheese was to die for!

Had a great time!

Fall Weekend

2009-10-25T21:41:00.002-05:00

This was the last morning of our weekend at Rend Lake this year.
I got up early to have a cup of coffee on the deck and had to run back in for
my camera when I saw how beautiful the day was beginning.

This is the first year that I didn't take any photos of my dear old friends, but I will think of them when I see this scenic photo.

Had a great time Colleen, Karen, Dan, and Jerry!

Giving Back

2009-10-02T22:52:00.004-05:00

This was recently brought to my attention through one of the many photo related blogs that I visit regularly. What a wonderful idea Jeremy Cowart has come up with. Please take a minute to go here and look at the his video explaining what this is all about. The nice thing is, you don't have to be a photographer to participate. There will be needs for many areas. Just go take a look and see for yourself. Then I ask you to please join me at the St. Charles, MO group then go add a comment on my page.

Strolling down Main

2009-09-28T23:16:00.004-05:00

Today I was thinking that I needed to increase my happy meds.
Instead I went back to a happy place.
Life is hectic, but so full of rewards.
Enjoy.

Solidly Enchanted

2009-09-16T22:58:00.002-05:00

Did a post-wedding shoot tonight for two people that I truly love.

Bryan is my godson and he brought Kristen into our family circle.

She is a solid foundation for him, and he is a rock for her.

Together they have a beautiful family, which I will share with you next week.

In the meantime, here are a couple of my favorites from this evening.

A solid foundation for the two of them.

Here they are, ending the evening, with a group of their fans cheering them on.

But they didn't pay attention. They had their own little private moment.

Love and happiness to both of you and your perfect little family.

Going Green

2009-09-13T21:53:00.005-05:00

On my Top Ten List of things I like to do, one of them is spending the day at the Botanical Gardens. We have a beautiful garden in my city and it is a never ending source of pleasure and wonder for the senses. Last week I spent the entire day wondering through the gardens until they were kicking us out at closing time. I even discovered two gardens that I have previously not seen. As an added bonus for myself, two good friends were my garden buddies for the day. One of them a Master Gardner. That really put a new twist on all the flora - actually learning the names and not just trying to describe to my local nursery "the pretty green plants with leaves that are sort of small, rounded with a point, and tiny purple - or was it yellow - flowers in either the spring or fall". Now I am armed with a little notebook with the species name and gender. The other bonus was having a buddy along who would sneak off with me to smoke. It was the perfect day. I am going to schedule more of these on my calendar. We need them.

And what's a trip without yet another shot of the gorgeous Chihuly chandelier? Here's the latest and I love it still. That piece of art always takes my breath away.

Last night we attended a trivia night fundraiser for a family member who is battling cancer.
He is 21 years old. I am happy to report that his mamma found him treatment in another state that seems to be working. We were so very thankful to have heard that wonderful news.
The event also raised several thousand dollars to help defray some of the expenses. It just goes to show that miracles DO happen and that there is nothing stronger than family pulling together to help one another. It warmed my heart to witness such happenings.
D, you are in our thoughts and prayers.

BTW - for the inquiring minds who wondered about my search parameters when I found the amazing boots, in my defense I did find these draperies on that same site first. See Exhibit A below.

Give a Sis a Camera.....

2009-09-11T22:10:00.003-05:00

and this is what she sees.
What a pretty photo.
It has my 3 essentials for landscape -
a beginning (foreground greenery)
a middle (church and buildings)
and an end (background forest).
Way to go, little sis!

A little retail therapy

2009-09-08T21:41:00.003-05:00

I am supposed to be finding the perfect drapes for my newly remodeled dining room.
Found these luscious leathers that I think would be a much wiser investment.
I think they would even help me take better photos.
Hmmm, I could just make a statement this Thanksgiving with some silk floral on the drapery rod, don't you think?

Baby A

2009-09-07T23:48:00.004-05:00

Sweet baby Ava Jane
was very cooperative today.
Isn't she a beauty?
Congrats to J & G.

Brave Sam and Double Bubble

2009-08-26T22:57:00.003-05:00

Samantha gave her poor mom and dad an awful scare.
Not only did she break her arm, but she broke both bones in her arm.
Adding to that she was transported to the hospital in an ambulance.
All of this happened the day before they were leaving for their beach vacation.
Sam was a real trooper. She's a brave girl!
Thanks for letting me autograph your cast. I hope the itching has stopped
and you are dreaming of cotton candy.

Double, double toil and trouble, fire burn and cauldron bubble - Macbeth
They may look like double trouble,
but these are the sweetest little guys!
I am lucky enough to call them family.
They came to us through marriage,
but they stay through the heart.

Bubble, Baby, and Tea Time

2009-08-25T00:40:00.004-05:00

Another shot of little P modeling the wonderful creations of Juliebugs

I asked her for a Mona Lisa smile.

Big P waiting on third base while a new pitcher was warming up

I was so inspired by Nicole V that I had to set this up for a shoot with C
I would love to follow Nicole around for a week. She inspires me.

A Biased Commercial

2009-08-21T23:04:00.003-05:00

This is a sneak preview of a photo project I've been working on for Juliebugs Boutique.
You can find her super cute items here and coming soon......here!
Litte P had a blast modeling for her GP today. She even patiently waited while
her laundry was drying. Thank goodness it was a nice, breezy day.
The hair adornments are the nicest I've seen anywhere. The flowers actually clip into a piece on the headband or hat, or they can also be worn alone by clipping the fabric covered clip into a piece of hair. One of the little neighbor girls had all the big ones clipped on the hem of her skirt. The onsies, or t-shirts, are so imaginative and fun. We had a great time the last couple of Fridays working on the photos which I will soon share.

Happily and counting

2009-08-09T23:00:00.003-05:00

Today marks the 35th anniversary of Glen & I saying the "i do" thing.
Little did we know what we were in for when we said those words at 18 & 19 years old.
But you know what?
We'd do it all over again in a heartbeat.
That's what he told me, and I feel the same.

The kids had a really nice luncheon for us today
and tomorrow we are off on an adventure all by ourselves.
It's a secret. We aren't taking any little people with us.
Don't even ask.
Well, you'll be in school anyway.
Except the baby.
No, I don't want to take a diaper bag on our special day.
Maybe we'll just rest up for an evening with the kids.

No alarm clock in the morning
and a nice long nap in the afternoon
doesn't sound so bad!

Happy B day and a little bit of Life

2009-08-03T03:50:00.006-05:00

Since my dear friend is one of the most creative, talented people I know, I couldn't simply post a photo of her on her birthday. It had to have a little pizazz. This happens to be a photo I took of her when she and some other good friends drove across the state to surprise me on my own birthday this year. Happy birthday, sweetie! Hope it's a great one and wish I was there to celebrate with you. Relax and enjoy!
template by Rhonna Farrar

Speaking of birthdays, here's a quick shot of the little P on her first. Traditional lamb cake, since my sister's first birthday, compliments of Gram. More photos to come of the BIG PARTY just as soon as I can get them loaded. Take my word, it was a blast!

Sunday afternoon I decided to load my two moms and the little people in the car for a road trip. We decided to slow down and smell the sunflowers.......

It was about 4pm when I was able to take some photos of these beautiful sunflowers.

I thought these deep orange ones were especially pretty.

The day couldn't have been more gorgeous. Look at that pretty blue sky
(thanks to my handy polarizer lens filter).

The Sunflower Scouts.
They tramped through the field scaring snakes and mice away
for their beloved Grandma Pam.

Rewind to last Friday. I had my little Rock Star making noise at my house.
Love her sweet little feet holding her up on her tippy toes!

She made all kinds of music. Check out her duds.
Gotta love a girl who loves peace!
Note to self: teach baby girl the meaning of peace.

Fast forward to Sunday. The daddy decided to surprise the grandmas on their road trip by loading up the little P and her mamma and surprising us at the luncheon destination.
He got a bag of chocolate from his mother in law for that one.

Sorry, gotta run.......my ride is waiting.

le Fleur

2009-07-29T23:00:00.001-05:00

Just a little eye candy from a walk down main street.

Special Auntie

2009-07-28T22:04:00.000-05:00

When I saw this mannequin all dressed up, beckoning customers into a small boutique, I stopped dead in my tracks. A serious, dead stop.Not only did she make me all happy inside just by looking at her,
she reminded me of someone.
Someone who loved me unconditionally.
Someone who thought I was something special.
Someone who giggled at the silly pranks I played
(after first acting like she was upset with me)
Someone who had an infectious laugh.
Someone who taught everyone around her right from wrong.
Someone who would send beautiful works of hand-drawn art on postcards to me in the hospital
every time I had a baby.
Someone who didn't judge others.
Someone who encouraged you to be yourself.

It didn't take long to recall who that happy, pretty lady reminded me of.
I miss her very much, but if I listen closely I can still hear her infectious giggle.

I hope that I am a special aunt to my nieces and nephews
as I remember my Aunt Kate was to me.

Guess who's ONE?

2009-07-22T11:55:00.002-05:00

Yesterday we celebrated our little Presley's first birthday.
So much love surrounds that sweet little baby girl.
So much love fills my heart when I think of her.

Happy Birthday to my precious little granddaughter.
xoxo
GP

Back at it again!

2009-07-20T16:41:00.006-05:00

I've been in Wonderland, behind the looking glass.................okay, really, I've been busy with my photography and have been gardening like crazy! Front yard is looking good!
I've neglected my poor little blog for so long that I wonder if anyone still drops by?
Here are some shots from last Saturday's Scott Kelby 2nd Annual Worldwide Photowalk.
There were over 30,000 photographers shooting around the globe on July 18th.
We worked in our own little corner in St. Charles on Main street.
The group was great. Nice, nice people! I made many new friends and had fun with those I already knew. The nicest part for me was having my sister along.

Love these Blog It Boards from Jodi at MCP.
I'll be back......the little Miss Presley turns one tomorrow!

Roses in Bloom

2009-06-17T22:34:00.004-05:00

Last week Deb, Chloe and I packed a picnic

and headed out for the Botanical Gardens. After a bit of a hassle when we got there (keys locked in car)
Deb & Chloe enjoyed themselves while I watched Dwyane jimmy the door handle of my mother's car to retrieve the keys.

Here are a few of the shots I was able to take while waiting for them - before my camera broke.

(yes, the day just kept getting better)

Love the reflection on this one.

Isn't this lily lucious looking? Reminds me of a chocolate goody.

I think I'll plant some of these lucious lillies in my own garden.

This was ready to burst open. Some kind of a lily.

My favorite was the roses.

They were just coming to the

end of their full bloom and were a sea of beautiful colors.
This pretty deep pink rose made a nice landing pad for the bees.

Aren't we lucky that the Chihuly sunburst remains as a permanent fixture in the rose garden? I'm going to get down there some evening and shoot this in the twilight hours. It is stunning in person.

I'll have to get back down there next week.
It's a beautiful, peaceful place to spend the day.

Cheap Cheap Fun Fun

2009-06-12T02:05:00.002-05:00

Just look how happy my little pals are. What made them smile?
I picked them up this evening and announced we were
going to have a pizza picnic at the park.
Quarter drinks (thanks Cards!) and a $5 hot 'n ready pizza
provided a perfect picnic, without any fuss or muss.

Try it sometime.
I promise it will bring a smile to your face.

Blessed

2009-06-12T01:50:00.002-05:00

Last Sunday was a special day for our family.
We celebrated Glen's birthday
and Presley's baptism.
I turned Peyton loose in church with my camera.... an interesting perspective of things.
Godfather Joey, Presley, Jeff, Lindsay, and Godmother Katie.

I think she has that "control issue" gene in her.

She didn't like being on her back, and wanted to see

where that water was coming from.

Maybe if she pulled her mommy's dress down far enough

she could twist herself around.

Isn't she pretty in Chloe's baptismal gown?

Here's the whole clan who came to celebrate with us.

Gary, Lindsay, Presley, Jeff, Jade, Nicki, Rick, Sharon, Amy, Sara, Abby,

Gram, Joe, Grandma, Tim, Katie, Aaron, Linda, Steve, me, Glen, Grace, Cindy,

Peyton and Chloe.............whew!

Looking at this photo, I know how blessed we all are.

Of interest to me

2009-06-05T23:36:00.003-05:00

While in the back alley of a downtown office building today, I spotted these two "otherwise occupied" structures.
The first one caught my eye because of the interesting textures.
The pigeons were icing on the cake.

The one below grabbed me with the contrast of the zig-zag fire escape against the white brick walls with the arched windows and straight vertical lines of the windows.

Just my inanimate posting for today.
Have a great weekend.

Hump day

2009-06-04T01:27:00.002-05:00

Before the weekend arrives with a full schedule of events,
I wanted to catch up on the last couple of weeks.
My buddy, Peyton, broke his foot.
Did that heavy plaster cast and shoe boot slow him down?
Not for a second! He was a real trooper,
even showed me that he could still climb a tree.

I am happy to report that all bones are healed
and no more were broken in the process.

On to my niece.
This is Sara Liz, the one who made me an aunt
for the very first time. I have a special nickname for her
and a special place in my heart for her also.
She recently graduated from college,
going through school while her husband was in Iraq,
as she lived far away from any family at a base in Georgia.
She completed her first degree there,
came home, continued her education through her
pregnancy (young Tim had come back home),
had her baby (Sweet Baby Grace) over Thanksgiving break,
and graduated with a teaching degree
(while remaining on the Dean's List all four years).
Summa cum Laude.

I am very proud of her.Fate landed me a seat even with her row.

I made her pull out her "ropes" for this shot.

It's official.

See? She has the diploma in her hand.

She plans on teaching in the inner city.

It will be a lucky group of children who have her for a teacher.

Good Morning, Mary

2009-05-28T18:31:00.005-05:00

I did this one for my friend, Mary L., who told me she checks my blog every morning.
How flattering. What pressure! I'll try to do a better job updating.
I hope you enjoy today's post.

Let's begin with the effervescent Emma.
She is so cute and full of energy.
It was fun watching her enjoy herself last Sunday at her Uma & Papa's.
I wonder if anyone had fun watching me enjoy myself.
Because I did. Enjoy myself. Thoroughly.
Oops! These popped up right in the middle.
They are posted for Dan.
He took us to look for the giant swan at the other lake,
and we found this little family.
Doesn't it look like a typical family?
The mamma is telling the daddy that
he better stop and ask for directions before
they end up swimming to the wrong end of the lake.
Anyway, that's what it looks like to me when I look at the photos here.

Ah, back to the party.
Wouldn't you just love to have this out your back door?
Happy Hanna is a real pro at casting.
She's got it down!
Isn't she a cutie? And you should have seen the killer boots she had on earlier!
She is a fashionista......my kind of girl!
She takes her fishing very seriously.
Here's one that makes me smile!
I wish that Molly and her little chick would have been out here,
but he was busy being baby-hogged by everyone and his mamma
kept watch over him.
So we have Gina, Mary, Bridget, Hanna, Maggie, Angie, and Chloe.
Peyton was back by me doing his magic tricks to get the girls to smile.
Our hostess and host.
My very dear friends.

Thank you for a wonderful time.(edited to a photo of our favorite place)

Love your warm hospitality, your family, and your beautiful home.
p.

Little Dude, Jude

2009-05-22T22:17:00.002-05:00

Look what the stork delivered to Sarah and Blake.........

Adorable little baby Jude.

This precious boy has one full head of hair!

He's still pretty tiny right now, just one month old.

Even though he's brand new, he has still found his spot on the family tree.

Front and Center.

Just ask either of his grandmas.

Looks like King Daddy is smitten with the little royal.

and his mommy couldn't love him any more!

It was a pleasure to spend time with you, little Jude.

Both times :)

Cousins night out

2009-05-10T21:59:00.005-05:00

Can you guess where we all met for our night out?Behind the elephant mask is the lovely Miss Chloe.
Give up?
We went to the ELEPHANT BAR!
Before you go calling me in for taking my 8 year old granddaughter to a BAR let me clarify that it is actually a restaurant with a bar. So everything was on the up and up.

Anyway, Bev had flown in to town from New Hampshire so we gathered to celebrate her belated birthday (January) and Deb's (March) and Kathleen's (April). They were all born the same year which (they think) makes them special (and the oldest) so we didn't feel bad about squeezing a free scoop of ice cream from the restaurant to keep them happy.

Crystal and Becky are such sweet girls. Aren't they pretty?

Here we are. Eight of us made it that evening (plus Chloe, the photographer for this one).

Deb and Jessica. Aren't they pretty?

And here is Kathleen. Chloe had to pose with all of the birthday girls. (Good way to get a taste of ice cream, huh?)

She then snuck over to get a taste of Bev's birthday treat.

And finally got around to Deb's.

What was this guy thinking when he shot this? This is why I hate handing a camera to someone who won't listen when I tell him what to do. Looks like he knew how to take a great blurry shot! Hopefully one of the others might turn out. Anyway, blurred or not, we had a wonderful time together and enjoyed each other's company.

We really should do this more often.

These girls aren't getting any younger!

Chloe and I had so much fun that night. Every one of them are all so very sweet, funny, nice, generous, pretty, and kind. We are very lucky to be a part of this acorn tree.

ps....Deb - Chloe would not let me go to bed tonight until I got this posted for you. :)

As promised......introducing baby Jack

2009-04-22T22:20:00.003-05:00

Just look at the precious little bundle of blue that I got to meet today.

Baby Jack.

Eight days old.

See how content and peaceful he looks?

And why not? Not only was his proud mamma snuggling with him,

but his Uma had been there to babysit.

What a special treat. He even played fireman with her.

(sorry, Uma - couldn't resist that one).

See - he's still smiling about the little trick he pulled on Uma.

She doesn't care.

She loves her little Jack.

Molly thought it was pretty funny too.

She is as pretty on the inside as she is on the outside.

I don't say that about too many people either.

All of her sisters are that way too.

Because they were raised by Uma.

Lucky girls.

Lucky baby Jack.

It was my pleasure to meet you today.

Hannah and Emma - you sure have a cute little cousin!

Hannah, Presley, and Emma

Babies and more

2009-04-20T13:04:00.002-05:00

Last week brought two new precious little babies into our world.
Baby Jack arrived on Tuesday (photos to follow later)
and this sweet little baby Jude arrived on Thursday.
Two new little boys to bring joy into the lives of many.
Congrats to Molly and Jon and to Sarah and Blake! In my own household, we got the old Roliflex out.
Here's the first shot which I call Dreamy.

Chloe wanted to try it out. How funny to look down into the viewfinder and see everything in reverse. She quickly got the hang of it.

Presley wanted a turn.

She caught on to everything but the film advance.

More lessons are needed.

Easter Blessings

2009-04-12T21:54:00.005-05:00

We started this Easter Sunday going to Mass at Lindsay's church.

It's nice, sitting with family in church. Old friends, too.

I felt refreshed, at peace, and very happy sitting through the service this morning.

Maybe that is why Easter is in the Springtime. A time of freshness and newness.

Other than that, we threw tradition to the wind.

First there were the Easter outfits. When I bought the black & white tiny-checked matching clothes for my three little pals, my mother didn't think they looked like "Easter outfits".
See below as to what qualifies in my mother's mind. My sister and I with my dad.

Fast forward a couple of decades.........

No hats, no gloves, no necktie or jacket, ummmm, no shoes? And did we forget to brush someone's hair?

In all honesty, they were quite presentable in church. Shoes, socks, hair combed nicely, white sweaters, all the necessities for not looking like a hoozsh on this special day.

But after the great egg hunt, anything goes.

I just wanted to get some sweet pics of my pals. Who cares about the other stuff anyway?

The little one was having a great time rolling in the green grass, grabbing the colored plastic things.

After we finished up we all sat down for a feast of TJ's pizza, Olive Garden salad with breadsticks, orange soda and Sprinkles cupcakes with peeps on top for dessert.

How's that for a non-traditional Easter meal?

(In my defense, the whole family has been sick with sore throats, earaches, flu, etc....this whole past week. Grocery stores and menus were the last thing I wanted to think about.)

Hope everyone had a joyful and blessed Easter.
I certainly did.

Half birthday

2009-04-06T00:52:00.002-05:00

Today is Chloe's 8 "and-a-half" birthday.

Happy is her middle name. This little girl is never crabby.

She has the sweetest voice that just melts your heart.

So do her big brown eyes.

I love her very much. Twirl On, happy girl!
Love & Hugs,
G-ma Pam

The Little Prince

2009-03-23T23:20:00.003-05:00

Twenty five years ago today Little Prince Joseph was born.

The celebration was heard throughout the land. The birds were

singing, flowers came out of their hibernation to bloom,

and the emerald green once again covered the ground.

The two older Princesses doted on the baby prince,

giving him hugs all day long.

A few years passed and the little Prince had become

a curious little boy. He wondered what would happen

if he cut the hair off of a doll.

He wondered what would happen if he hammered

the King's socket set into the dirt.

He wondered what would happen if he rode his bike

while wearing roller skates.

He wondered what would happen if he .......

well, you get the picture.

All of that curiosity seems to have paid off.

He wondered what would happen if he went off to college

and studied hard. He found out that hard work paid off.

He wondered what would happen if he asked the

lovely Abby to marry him.

He found out that he made the right choice.

She made a delicious birthday dinner for all of his

local kingdom this evening. Mmmmm, good!

The King and Queen are very pleased with how

their Little Prince Joseph turned out.

He knows right from wrong,

is fair to others,

works hard,

and knows that love and family

are the real treasures of the kingdom.

See? He's letting the little subjects help him

blow out the candles on his celebration cake.
The little subjects adore him.
They were so excited to present him with
this gigantic bobber floating cooler
(for his Cheer Wine Soda, of course)
so he could stay in the pool all day
without getting thirsty.

The littlest subject was eager to taste the
traditional chocolate cake that Prince Joseph
is so fond of.

Hip hip hooray!
Long live Prince Joseph
and his special chocolate
celebration cake!

Happy Birthday, Joey!
We love you.

Tobacco road

2009-03-22T19:54:00.003-05:00

My pal, JoLynn, made a u-turn while on the way to Nell Hill's
so that I could get this shot.
The old barn is a tobacco barn.
I thought it was beautiful with the
backdrop of the rich, blue sky.

Thanks, J, for letting me get this shot.

My little leprechauns

2009-03-19T13:43:00.002-05:00

All ready for the St. Patrick's Day Parade........
until Grandpa made us too late.
The parade was closed so we ended up
going to the transportation museum instead.
The kids had a good time climbing on old trains
and learning a bit of history.

Chloe and Presley are BFFs.
Sometimes I think Presley would like a bit more
room to breathe.

Peyton was intrigued with the bullet-hole in the window
of this train car door. His imagination was
going all over the place with what could have happened.

My Lovely Weekend

2009-03-17T00:24:00.004-05:00

A road trip to the western side of the state to visit with these ladies
was better than a trip to a five-star spa.We were welcomed with warmth and hospitality,

fed incredible food
topped off by the very best cake I've had in a long time
with fabulous projects thrown in.

Yes, Life IS good.
Especially with friends like these.

We were chauffeured across the state line
for a little shopping trip.

A favorite shot of mine from the weekend.

Had a great time with all of you.
Looking forward to the next time.

Around the corner

2009-03-11T22:47:00.002-05:00

I'm feeling green.

Not due to any illness,

just my favorite holiday.

'Tis the season

of the leprechauns.

Someday I hope to catch

them in the act of throwing out

all the green seeds in my yard,

turning the wintery, brown grass

the color of the Emerald Isle.

I hope they wear their mountain climbing gear this year.

The moles are setting up hills and valleys all over the yard.

I might just have to give some extra food to the fairies

to take care of those pesky ground dwellers.

Happy March to All!

All right already

2009-02-24T13:14:00.004-06:00

I've been getting calls and emails that I haven't updated my blog for quite some time.
So much has gone on this month I don't know why I neglect to post it here.
In a nutshell, here's what you've missed.....
Molly's baby shower
Chloe's overnight at the Magic House
Presley's cuteness
Peyton's antics
Snow, sun, cold
My hike to the creek with the little kids
Abby's birthday party
Libby's birthday party
Happy birthday to my dear friends, Nancy and Sandy
My really cleaned out closet (Goodwill was so happy!)
Gracie being adorable
and probably more that I can't remember right now.

I'm also doing Julia Cameron's "The Artist's Way" workbook
this month. It's been a great experience so far.

Photos at 10.

Things I Love - Blogs & Photoshop

2009-02-05T23:35:00.004-06:00

I love looking at blogs.

Not just any blog, there are some that really draw me in.

Here is a new one today that Sarah shared with me - SallyJean.

I was immediately hooked.

First of all, I love her photos, a sure way to grab my attention.

Second, I love her photo border,

which I found out her son designed for her.

(Did you hear that, Joey?)

Third, she has such interesting lists!

You should really go there and see for yourself.

You'll find her absolutely charming!

Which brings me to Photoshop.

After playing around I made these borders myself.

Don't ask me how, they just happened this way.

I googled something which led me to another site

leading me again to yet another site where

I followed the tutorial.

Anyway, here are two that I made tonight.

Border #1

Border #2

The above photo was taken by my friend, Teresa,

when we were attending an Audrey Woulard workshop

in Chicago last Spring.

This is my friend, Teresa Reed.

She is kind, fun, and enthusiastic.

She has a keen eye and great style.

I'm so glad that we met and became friends.

If you are in need of an awesome photographer

in the Wichita, KS area she's your shooter.

The Littlest Hero, {H}

2009-02-03T22:43:00.004-06:00

This is why I love photography.

It's not really a job as much as a gift.

For instance, I was contacted by The Littlest Heroes Project

to do a photo session with this little Hero, H.

He happens to be one in a set of quads.

When I arrived they were in the middle of a

"pretend" birthday party, balloons and all.

The love and vitality of this family was amazing.

Every now and then one of H's siblings would run over

and give him a kiss on the cheek, or a pat on the head.

It was quite touching to witness.

Here is a sneak peek for the family.

Dad and his boys

A Happy Family

Siblings.

Their Littlest Hero.

Who I Love #3

2009-02-03T18:17:00.003-06:00

Chloe.She is by far the sweetest little girl

I have ever known.

She is thoughtful, kind, and generous.

She loves girly things.

She loves fun things.

She is adventurous, yet cautious.

I love her very much.

Who I Love #2

2009-02-03T12:17:00.003-06:00

Abby.

She is my daughter by marriage.

She is my bonus daughter.

She is a perfect fit to our family.

She is as beautiful on the inside as the outside.

I couldn't have picked a better wife for my son

or a daughter-in-law for me.

Love you, Abby.

FIVE HUNDRED

2009-02-01T23:59:00.002-06:00

Post number 500.
I began this blog in June 2005 with
this post.
I don't know if I've accomplished what I set out to do,
but it's been fun and theraputic for me.
Not to mention a little bit of recorded history
for my family.

Since it's February, I thought I would take this month
to post photos of the people and things that I love.

Who I LOVE #1
Here is a recent favorite photo of my daughters.
This was taken at the birthday bash they gave for me last month.
I love this photo of them.
They have both grown up into their own person and I'm
very proud of each of them.
Love you L & A.

Go Steelers!

2009-02-01T23:40:00.002-06:00

Super SuperBowl Sunday!

Do you like my outfit?

My daddy is a #1 Steelers Fan

so I thought I'd wear this to make him smile. Hey - do you mind?

I'm trying to watch the game here.

Grandpa wanted the Cardinals to win.

It was a pretty close call.

But the Steelers were the victors in the end.

Good thing......I don't think my dad's nerves could have taken any more of this.

Congratulations to the Pittsburg Steelers on your Super Bowl victory.
And congratulations to the Arizona Cardinals for playing a tough game.

It was most entertaining.

Snow Day & First Ponytail

2009-01-28T23:21:00.003-06:00

Today was the second snow day for the kids here.

It finally got above 12 degrees, so they got to go out and play.

Poor little Presley kept looking out the door for them,

begging Grandma Pam to take her outside too.

We bundled her up in her snowsuit, put on her warmest hat

and out we went. It wasn't what she thought it would be.

Hmmmm, the brightness is a bit much for my big blue eyes.So this is what all the fuss is about?

Putting on all those clothes, searching for dry mittens,

matching boots, scarves, and snowpants

just to sit in this cold pile of soft wet mushy stuff?I don't even like the taste of it!

See? I told you it was cold and gross.

I want to go back inside to my warm blanket

and fuzzy soft toys.
Now, isn't this better? I'm all dressed up, warm and dry.

Mommy even made me my very first ponytail so I'll look pretty

when my Daddy gets home from work.

He'd better not tell me I look like Minnie Mouse.

Calling Nana on the Banana

2009-01-27T23:15:00.003-06:00

Little Miss T is one of my favorite small people.

She moves her hands in time with her mouth,

adding emphasis on what she wants to tell you.

She is such a character!

While we were trying to get her adorable little brother to

sit still for a clear shot, she picked up this banana

and decided she would call "nana on the banana".

She cracked herself (and me) up!

She's such a sweetie! (and a great salesperson, a budding scientist

AND an all around great kid!)

Here is her baby brother. Didn't I tell you he was ADORABLE?

He laughed and smiled (and cruised) the whole time I was there.

Curiosity got the better of him when I stood on a chair.

I think he was trying to figure out how to do that too. :)Finally - we got him still for just a minute to get this cute shot.

I love the emotion it shows, how very happy he is

and how much his big sister loves him.

Just look at her gorgeous hair!

It was a fun morning with the two T's.

Thanks for sharing your little ones with me, Mandy.

Off subject, I just have to share this that my friend sent me today. Get ready to LOL!

Freeze Frame

2009-01-26T01:16:00.002-06:00

These girls were such a delight to shoot. I love my job because I get to meet people that are fun to be around. I would love to go shopping or have lunch with E & E anytime.
They were also good sports posing outside in the 15 degree weather we had today.
I think my fingertips are just now thawing.
Here's a few of my favs from the shoot.

Thanks for a fun afternoon girls! Hope your dad is happy with his birthday surprise.

Mini version of Swan Lake

2009-01-17T00:05:00.002-06:00

The littlest ballerina came over the other day.
She was needing some publicity shots for her
upcoming ballet "Swan Lake".
Knowing that she is yet too young at only 6 months old
to get the lead, I didn't want to discourage her.
I pulled open the drapes, got out my camera
and shot her while she went through her
routine.

CabrioleExercises 'a la barre
Petit

Bras Bas

Battement Frappe'

Rond de jamb 'a terre

En Face

Coda

Personality #23

2009-01-13T11:37:00.006-06:00

DON'T SCROLL DOWN IF YOU ARE a) my children or b) my grandchildren or c) my children's in-laws or d) any other family member who might bring this to a family reunion or e) any members on the Committee to Elect Me Mayor
...........................................................................................................................................................................
STOP RIGHT HERE
...........................................................................................................................................................................
DO NOT GO ANY FURTHER
...........................................................................................................................................................................

okay - so now you know what I do on Friday afternoonsshe couldn't bear to look

EDIT: Photo removed for publication.....

but all ended well.

Back to Personality #7 - the sweet side of me.

ps............#23 has been put to rest.

Post-birthday Gratitute

2009-01-12T22:10:00.002-06:00

I was so rushed out of the house on the morning of my birthday, that I didn't have time to grab my camera. My friend, Lisa, said not to worry - she had hers.
I was going to wait to do this update until I got some of her photos, but am worried that I might leave something out (or may want to leave something out).
Lisa, Sandy, and Kayte (who also celebrates her bd on the same day) picked me up and we headed to one of my favorite places, Blueberry Hill down in Delmar Loop.

As we were entering the establishment we met a charming biker, Jose. They told him we were there to celebrate mine and Kayte's birthdays so he wanted to pose with us for a photo. Somehow (and I really don't know how it happened) I found myself on the back of his Harley to take a spin around the block. Thinking my girlfriends had set this up I felt that it was a safe thing to do. As promised, Jose delivered me back safe and sound. Mark another thing off of my "100 Crazy Things to Do Before I Am 100" list.

Walking inside the restaurant, I was anticipating biting into one of BH's famous burgers, when I spotted 3 of my FAVORITE FRIENDS IN THE WORLD who drove in from KC for lunch!!!!!!!
(btw - I believe I'm relatively safe in the stress test area as I could actually feel my heart pounding with excitement and I didn't drop over, foaming at the mouth).
What a wonderful, special, fabulous surprise that was! I was so stunned that they were actually there! We had a wonderful lunch followed by a walk down the street to Craft Alliance then back down Delmar to Jilly's Cupcake Bar where we indulged in yummy filled cupcakes, topped with heavenly butter cream frosting. Guess who came in and sat at the table next to us??????
Rachel, from Cupcakes Take the Cake! She was there with her grandfather who had just finished a reading from his memoirs of WWII at Left Bank Books. It was a privilege and honor to meet both of them.
One last stop at Red Lead with the KC girls. It's one of my favorite stores and we like to take them when they are in town. Got the goods for making Valentine cards. (oops, guess I'd better hurry up and get those Christmas cards in the mail!) As we left the store, we said our goodbyes on the parking lot as they had to head back to KC and I had another party to go to.

Part(y) 2.
Now this is the one that I don't think I will be able to share any photos. My kids set me up good. We went to (Tales and Whales?) I don't remember the name, but it was a dueling piano bar.
Holy cow! What a FUN place that is! Especially on your birthday when you are there with a group of 24 - my sweet family and more friends. Joey & sweet Abby got there way early to lay across two large tables so we'd have seating right by the stage. (I'm thinking that was part of the plan). The kids had arranged for me to SIT ON LUPIE's LAP while he played some version of some inappropriate song (which I'm sure I'll be able to review later on video). He was very nice until I started playing the piano with him. He apparently wanted to be the star that night, so I was only allowed to work the stage lights with the foot controls. My brother-in-law generously sent me test tubes of a dark liquid, which tasted like apples, so I guess I got some fruit servings in for the day. My dearest Glen and thoughtful son gave me some delicious tasting shots of something with pineapple (which they know I love) everyone kept the beer buckets full. It was SO MUCH FUN! I really enjoyed having my folks with me and loved watching them have as much fun as I had. All that was missing were my little people.

Part(y) 3.
My little people sang to me last night with the last Jilly's cupcake.

And so ends my birthday week. It was INCREDIBLE!

But wait, I still had some birthday money so after purchasing this tonight my week is officially over.

Wait. There is still another celebration to come. My very best friend, Colleen, and I share the same birthday as well. We still have to get together to celebrate our special day.
THEN it will be officially over.........until next year.

THANK YOU TO ALL OF MY FAMILY AND GOOD FRIENDS for the cards, gifts, wishes, and time you spent with me. I love you all!
nite.

Mom gets the shots

2009-01-02T23:56:00.004-06:00

I set my mom up with a Canon Digital Elph about a year ago. She's the one who captures all the memories around here and it was time to get her up to date with her camera equipment.

A minor detail I forgot to think through. She doesn't know how to "download" or what a "CF Card" is or where it goes for that matter. I'm just happy that she's finally figured out how to recharge the camera's battery.

Last night I retrieved her card and downloaded 199 photos from the end of November until this New Year's eve. I sent them to Costco (who does a beautiful job) for printing. Amazing that they had them ready to be picked up after noon today. They are a great lab!

Looking through them, I realized that she captures shots that I am too tired to get, or just miss because I have to haul my gear out, or don't see because I'm doing something else. Here are just a couple of the ones I would have missed.......

Winter drive-in movie night. They have to drive the "mini-van" indoors because we don't have room for double parking inside. Plush blanket, soft pillows, popcorn and they are set. This was taken on New Year's eve. I was cleaning up the kitchen. Mom got the shot. Two of my very favorite baby girls. Sweet baby Grace got to hold our little Presley. She was so gentle with her. Of course I was in the kitchen cooking so I missed seeing this. Mom got the shot.

Another night my little pal came over in one of my favorite shirts. I was too busy washing my hands so I could hold her. Mom got the shot.

I am marking my calendar to upload her photos every two weeks from now on.

It makes me smile to see the things I missed while busy with other things.

I'm glad that my mom gets those shots.

Welcome 2009!

2009-01-01T23:34:00.003-06:00

No words today. Just a couple of photos I shot when I met up with a small group of photographers yesterday. It was a very relaxing day and fed my creative soul.
This shot of the trees was my favorite. I loved the contrast of light and dark as well as the contrast of woods in their various stages. May we all have a good 2009.

3 C's of Christmas

2008-12-28T00:28:00.007-06:00

Let me start by saying that I take SNAPSHOTS at Christmas.
Among all the Confusion, Chaos, and Clutter of this holiday
I can hardly get anything other than a quick shot of the moment.
But I don't mind. Each of these makes me smile.

This is little Devon holding Presley. She was playing patty-cake with her until she started crying. Devon politely shoved her off her lap. Here is my little pal, Kelly. He is going to be my assistant some day.

Cousins.....Kelly, Peyton, Lexi, Devon, Brett, Chloe, Katie, and Presley.

Peyton loves his great Uncle Rol. He's got a great fishing lake with huge fish!

My nephew, David, with his baby girls Kaliegh and Kayleigh

Presley thinks three is a crowd on her blankie.

Baby aerobics.

This was the beautiful sunset on Christmas Day. Can you just imagine Florida in the distance?

Presley was all smiles.

Peyton was so happy with his super duper nerf blaster gun.

Chloe was glued to her new desk.

Peyton and Presley all dressed up for Grandma MaryAnnies on Christmas Eve.

Family photo op.

They are ready to go - will there be more presents?

Nicki, Baby Jade, Grandma Sharon, and Presley.

Eric, Cindy, Courtney, and little Grace. All shots of her are a blur......she's a work in motion!

Peyton showing his Grandpa his new Boy Scout Swiss Army knife. Good thing Aunt Cindy gave this to him. I would have been in hot water.

Just hanging out with the family. See Grace in motion again?

All Tim wanted for Christmas was a nap. Sara's shoulder made a soft pillow.

Presley crashed for a while too.

Will someone please give me a 100 watt bulb for my new Easy Bake oven?

Bird's eye view - just a little piece of the holiday season I was blessed with this year.

Hope you all had a very Merry Christmas!

On the 19th day of Christmas

2008-12-20T01:12:00.003-06:00

I went to a concert at The Pit. I was most likely in the top ten "over 25" crowd and the place was pretty full. Thank goodness my mind still believes we are 23.

Doesn't matter. The reason we went was to see Ryan play with his band, He Who Dredz.

I didn't know what to expect but I was pleasantly surprised at how very talented and good the band is! I loved the music. Couldn't really understand the singing, but I don't always understand U2's lyrics. Still - the music fills you. That's how I felt tonight.

I am so glad I took my camera along too. I've never photographed a rock band at an indoor concert before. Overall, it was a great evening.

Here are a couple of my fav shots of Ryan - our cousin's son. So proud of him, and I'm thinking we will be saying "We knew him when......."

Holiday Nostalgia

2008-12-16T22:54:00.002-06:00

Before the Hallmark ornaments were around my mother had her own way of giving my sister and I our own special shiny orb to hang on the tree. Each year she got out the Elmer's glue, a jar of multi-colored glitter and some plain, round ornaments. She would then write our name and the last two digits of the year with the glue and shake the glitter over it until every bit was covered.
I don't have all of mine since some of them were broken. Not sure what year she stopped making these, but I'm glad I have this small collection. Oh look! Another "self-portrait in the reflection of a golden ornament" shot! Last one, I promise.

To the side of my front door sits this old wooden sled. It's not really mine, but as close as Glen could find to the original one (mine) that he threw out during our last move. He combed the antique (gasp!) stores to find this one. It looks identical, but it doesn't have my initials and address scribbled on the underside. I might do that one of these days.

9 more sleeps!

I'm so glad my friend, J, finally got her tree up.

My Gift

2008-12-15T22:48:00.002-06:00

I don't remember when it started, but Glen would take us to Main Street every year at Christmas time. I love going there any time of the year, but there is magic in the air during the holiday season. It's a trip back in time with period Carolers, Santa's from around the world, horse drawn carriage rides, and freshly baked cookies.
There were a few years when it was just the two of us. There were years when we all went. When "people" started complaining about going (too cold, boring, football is on) I explained that it was a gift to me that we do this tradition every year.
And once we are there, everyone gets into the spirit.
This past Sunday afternoon was the day of our annual trip.
I was not disappointed.
Just being there filled me with the spirit of Christmas and took my mind off anything else.

Peyton and Chloe were so interested in everything in the Irish shop that I couldn't have been prouder of them. They even started talking in Irish brogue to amuse me.
That got them each a chocolate covered strawberry and a soda. In and out of little shops, they didn't ask for anything.
At one point, Peyton saw a perfect gift for his dad.
Grandpa took him in to make the purchase.
See? The spirit of giving took hold.

They were even cooperative for photos and looked for good backgrounds for me.

The last stop was the giant Christmas tree. The ornaments were as big as a dodge ball.
Wasn't this a great shot that they saw for me?

I don't have many gifts bought.
I don't have many cookies baked.
I don't have anything wrapped.
But I do have a wonderful gift that my family gave to me.

Dec 9th

2008-12-09T23:17:00.000-06:00

So, I've let a few days go by and haven't kept my promise to blog daily this month.
Do I need to even say how busy we all get in December?
I'm trying though.
Today I put the finishing touches on the front porch decor.
It looks so Christmas-y!
I wish I had added just one more electrical outlet when we built this house.
I don't remember how I plugged in my lit wreaths on the windows.
Oh, well. Glen will get it done for me.
This evening we all attended Peyton's school Christmas concert.
It was all of the fourth graders playing their recorders (or flutiphones, as they used to be called).
They were wonderful! I watched Peyton's little fingers move over the holes, making music, without looking at his sheet one time! After the concert I asked him how he knew the songs.
He told me that he just did. I guess he gets that from my mom and her mom. They both played the piano beautifully.
Went to Joe & Abby's after the concert (they watched the baby) for pizza.
Their house is so warm and decorated all pretty for Christmas.
I love their tree! It even has several wrapped presents underneath.
Mine has a tree skirt. That's it.

Now that everyone is in bed here, I was able to have some play time.
First thing I did was download this new set of actions that were generously
provided by Pioneer Woman

I decided to use this photo I happened to have already open in PS.
Here is the SOCC photo. Pretty cute kid, huh? After running PW's Heartland and Boost (from set 1) actions, I added this
frame from Pink Ink Studios.

Doesn't this look like something you would have received, oh say, maybe 50 years ago?

The Annual Christmas Card Photo Shoot

2008-12-09T00:53:00.003-06:00

Each year the kids and I start thinking of what we want to do for our Christmas card way before Halloween. Since the baby was still pretty small and the weather was pretty cold we knew the outside one we had planned wasn't going to happen.
Plan B: I had it all envisioned in my head. The lighting would be perfect. I shopped for and found the perfect props and clothing. Even the book (Mary Engelbreit's Night Before Christmas) I bought had the perfect colors.
Plan C came into action when the baby was sick and she couldn't come to my "studio".
All the props were intended for a different place, lighting, and background than what I had to work with since the baby couldn't leave the house. (She's fine now, btw).
I also haven't worked a Christmas card with these three yet either. The baby LOVES books, so the minute Peyton pulled out the colorful "prop" the baby lunged for it and wouldn't look at the camera. Then she tried to eat it. We had to get rid of the book. ($19.99)
The pretty hand-crafted pillow also looked like a tasty morsel to her. We had to ditch that as well. ($16.99)
The snowy garland ($18.50) and the Christmas artwork ($24.99) didn't work so well on this set up and left glitter all over the bed.
Presley's 6' long, velvet santa hat, complete with jingle bells sewn on ($34.95) was too big for her head and kept falling over her eyes. Her mamma stuffed the hat with a pair of the baby's jammies, making her look like a conehead.
Plan D: Put the baby in her red Christmas jammies and give her Chloe's pearl necklace.
Finally, finally, I was able to get some decent shots.
Not the ones you see below.
I thought I would blog this for posterity so these little kids would appreciate just how hard I worked to make a stinkin' cute Christmas card!
To make the collages below was so quick and easy thanks to MCP Actions Blog-It-Boards.
I love those things. There are two sets with several templates from 2 to 9 photo spots.
There is even a one-step action to add branding bars with your title like I did here.

Can you feel my pain and frustration?

In the end, looking at these again, I think that I might like these collages better than the actual cards.

Happy Holidays!
pam

Dec 4

2008-12-04T23:02:00.002-06:00

Just when I least expect it, he does something that touches my heart.
It might be a bag of peanut M&M's or a card left on the counter for no reason.
It might be a new ice scraper with a long handle or a full linen closet of clean, folded towels.
Today when I came home from running an errand this is what I found him doing.
I love my Christmas angel, but the last couple of years the lights have started to go out, strand by strand. Last year I didn't even want it put out.
Today he painstakingly re-strung and clipped all new lights onto the angel.
It stuck me that there were a million other things he could have been doing since his days off are very rare, but here he sat doing this for me.
I'm so glad my camera was handy.

I made him homemade soup for dinner tonight.

As we are in the hustle and bustle of the season, remember that all good things don't come in prettily wrapped packages. In fact, I don't think that the really important ones are wrapped at all.

Dec 2 & 3

2008-12-03T22:37:00.000-06:00

Okay - I missed a day, but I didn't feel like straining my eye on the computer so I've combined them. My eye is much better today.

This photo template comes from Pink Ink and I used it for two of my photos I'll be putting in my JYC. I'm really loving those templates that their talented designers are creating.
The photo on the left is the collection of props for this year's Christmas card.
The photo on the right are my treasured ornaments that used to hang on my grandma's shiny silver tinsel tree. I kept them put away for years so that my kids wouldn't get their slippery little hands on them. Now I fill a giant apothecary jar displaying them in my dining room. The one box still has the original lid with a hand-written price (in pencil) of $1.29. I imagine that was probably a lot way back when, but I'm so glad that my grandma kept them all so nice.
I'm really loving any mercury glass that I see and there is a lot of it out this year. Maybe I should buy some pieces, leave the price tags on them so my granddaughters can cherish them someday.

I wonder if blogging will be obsolete for them?

Dec 1st

2008-12-01T23:45:00.002-06:00

Time to start making cookie dough. Actually, I wasn't that ambitious today.
I left the house at 8:30 this morning to drop Chloe off at school, then ran my nephew back to college in Columbia. Not planning on more than that I left the house this morning in yesterday's jeans, hair, layered mis-matched sweatshirts, red holiday socks and slippers (Ugg's, but still slippers). The outer hoodie was Glen's that I had intended to wash today, but it looked warm and cozy on the back of the kitchen chair, so I grabbed it for the long, cold ride. Who would see the dried mud on the left sleeve? If only I'd had a crystal ball.......
Last night my eye was very sore and bloodshot. This morning it wasn't doing much better so on the way back from Columbia I called my eye dr. They could squeeze me in, but the time would mean that I had to drive (quickly) straight there from where I was. Okay, so the shower would have to wait. My eye was more important than my vanity, right?
Made it just 2 minutes late for the eye dr., had the exam, he removed some glitter from my eye (don't ask), and gave me anti-biotic drops. Irritated, scratched and infection, but I wasn't going to lose my site. Good news. As I was leaving there, my mom reminded me of her heart dr. appt.
We just had enough time to get there. Once again, I walked into a physician's office that day looking like a homeless person WITH a swollen, red eye. But my mom's heart was still ticking, and that's what's important, right?
Finally, after dropping off our prescriptions, I got home at 4pm. I threw some chicken in the oven to roast and went straight to a nice warm bath.
All of this reminds me of why I don't like to camp.

Need to do my Day 1 of the JYC.
It is my gift to myself for the month of December.
A good friend of mine would like to turn "duty to delight" this season.
I would like to do that too.
I also plan to post here every day this month.
Cross one thing off the list!

So....how was YOUR 1st day of December?

It's that time again!

2008-11-26T00:01:00.002-06:00

For the second year, I will be working on a special journal/scrapbook.
I will be among many others in an online group working on the "JYC".
One more thing added to the stressful December list of things to-do?
Hardly.
It is my stress-release.
It is my time I will look forward to at the end of each hectic day.
It is a record that I can look back on and enjoy past memories.
It is a creative outlet.
It is a gift for myself and my family. It all begins on December 1st.
I can hardly wait.
If you'd like to see my 2007 JYC, you can view it here.

Stolen moments

2008-11-19T01:08:00.002-06:00

I snagged Lindsay's cf card today and found some photos I thought I'd share.
Joey has been on me for not updating my blog.
Sorry......I don't know what I do with all my free time these days.

Here is Chloe at her friend's birthday party at My Girls.
What are these two laughing at? Do you still wonder where the baby gets those cheeks?

Presley was a pink poodle for her very first Halloween. She preferred the paci over the candy.

What a great big brother Peyton is. He adores his baby sister and she loves him too!

How can a girl be so lucky? Just when you think there's no room left in your heart to love another person unconditionally, along comes another grandbaby. And there's still room for more.

Until next time.....

have a Picture Perfect Day!

2008-11-17T13:43:00.002-06:00

Remember this?

Here's the "after" shot.

She was definetly worth the wait.

Happy Happy

2008-11-17T13:28:00.002-06:00

Guess who is TWO? Well, technically on the 18th, but we did her birthday shoot yesterday and had a cake for her.
This is our Sweet Baby Grace.
What a piece of work this little girl is.
She jabbers non-stop in a language all her own.
She also has the sweetest smile, don't you think? Thanks to Jodi's Blog-It boards I was able to share several photos from her session.
The frame in the top & bottom center are from Pink Ink.

Happy Happy to you Grace Isabella.

xoxo

Sneak Peek

2008-11-04T20:59:00.002-06:00

I photographed these delightful, lovely girls this weekend.
Here they are helping me to make their mom and dad smile for the camera.
I can use some good assistants like this! The three sisters are beautiful blondes.
I saw first-hand where the expression "hair like corn silk" came from. Just a little collage for mom and dad to preview.

Thanks for letting me have a little peek into your day.

Fun on the Farm

2008-11-04T20:32:00.005-06:00

I received an email today about having "old-fashioned fun".

This isn't really old-fashioned, but it does not include video games.

The kids had so much fun that they didn't want to leave and are already

asking when we can go back.

Here's one of my favorites of the day, enchanced with this free overlay

from Holly

Little miss wondered if this was where popcorn came from.

Here's my big boy at the wheel of Jim's combine. I think he's ready to start looking for his own farm.

Here's how they dump the load.

This is Brenda's combine. She has the fancy one. :)

I rode with her.

Brenda showed them how the combine worked before we took off.

As you can see, Peyton and Mr. Jim are good buddies now.
And here's our pretty Abby - the connection that brought us our new group of folks.

Thanks, Abby.

Grandma and the sisters all made us a wonderful noon meal - including spiced candy apples!

That took me back to my childhood and dinner's at Romines with my mom and dad.

Thanks to all of our Pittsfield folks for your generous hospitality and a wonderful day!

Happy Weekend

2008-10-28T10:20:00.003-05:00

What a fun filled weekend I had!
Friday night started with a beautiful wedding of a little girl I've known since she was 6 years old.
Look how pretty she grew up! She made a beautiful bride and her husband, Kris, is a great guy.Now what could these pretty people be so happy and smug about?Is that a BABY BUMP????? You have to have a very keen eye to spot little Jack, but it's there.Saturday was spent in the country and I forgot my camera. You'll just have to take my word for it that we had a wonderful time at Stoney Creek Ranch. Peyton & Chloe want to move there.

On to Sunday.......we had a bunch of little kiddies over to help Chloe end the celebration of her month-long 8th birthday.

I taught them how to do the Monster Mash. Remember that one?

I know there was something else.......

What was it?

Hmmmm, let me think.........

OH YEAH!

My little girl came by and we had to take a picture of her.......

On that happy note, I start my week.