Welcome to My WINDOW IN TIME

Beloved Sessions-How Romantic!

2011-03-23T19:51:00.000-07:00

I took this picture of this dried yellow rose today. This is one of a bouquet of roses that one of my daughters received for Valentine's day.

As I type this post, I am listening to a live taping on Livestream by guy named Jesh de Rox.  He is speaking about his passion regarding a new photography service that he has begun to offer to his clients. I found him through an e-mail invitation from Dane Sanders. Dane is a West Coast Wedding Photographer and author of Fast Track Photographer. So, right away I did a search of Jesh de Rox and listened to his 45 minute talk that he gave at the WPPI Conference. I love the way he puts his whole heart on the line while he offers his personal experiences in his photography career. When he began to incorporate Beloved Sessions into his business, he was able to touch so many couples lives. It gave him an opportunity to interact with clients.  In most cases, those same clients have precious relationships but have gotten so involved in their day to day lives, they had forgotten about romance. During the Beloved Sessions, the couples are encouraged to remember how they felt when their romance was new.   I absolutely love this concept.   Because I so enjoy engagement sessions, I would also love to begin offering Beloved Sessions. Beloved Sessions look a lot like Engagement Sessions except that the couples are already married. It doesn't matter how long married ...six months, one year, two, ten...fifty years! How about that concept? I think it is stinkin' ah-mazing! Heck. I would love to have a Beloved Session with my sweet husband of almost 25 years! Oh my, how those years have rolled by! I only wish we were the same size we were 25 years ago. But, you know what? What is real, is real. And, I can tell you that I really do love my Beloved. And, I know that he loves me.   A Beloved Session sounds like a sweet and wonderful way to rekindle the love and affection a couple has for each other.    Priceless!

If I were photographing a Beloved Session, it would look a lot like my Engagement Sessions. During the Engagement Session, I prompt the couple with suggestions then I catch their interactions.   I feel like the director of a Romance Movie. :) We all love those scenes where the man and woman flirt wiih each other with their eyes. We the audience, can't help but smile because Love is Lovely.

Click here If you haven't seen it, here is my Felicia & Austin enagement session. If you would like to do a Beloved Session, call me!  You will LOVE it!

Last night I attended my second class for my course in Wedding & Event Planning. This course will allow me to be a Certified Wedding Planner. I was intrigued by this course and decided that it would be a positive experience. I am enjoying it a lot. Also, I have a variety of contemplations rolling around in the old noggin right now in the way of business ideas. Let's just say I have been in the 'thinking about it' stage for a very long while. These days, I have begun a to put feet to my ideas and begin a small measure of forward momentum. Terry is supportive. I plan to reveal more later because we are not leaping just yet. Actually, I feel that I am doing a version of Tim Conway' shuffle steps. Remember Tim's old man character on The Carol Burnett show? Yeah? Well, that's how my kind of forward motion probaby appears right now. Hopefully, we will start gaining the momentum needed to implement my vision. What holds me back? The unknown. Specifically, I have to decide to decide. What keeps me from deciding? The fear of making the wrong choice.

Do you remember when you were in high school and the guidance counselor was prompting you to decide what you wanted to be when you grew up? Because there were so many options, it felt overwhelming to make, what we thought, was the All Important, Do or Die, One and Done, Life Impacting Monumental Decision! Good Grief! High School was a dadgum pressure cooker, huh?! At my age today, I am well past the naivety of those young days. Although, somehow those same type of feelings are bubbling inside me right now. First, I have to decide to make a decision. If I am going to do the thing, I need to decide to do the darn thing & quit dancing around the subject. But, if you know me, you know that I love to dance.

The day finally arrived. Baby girl flew da coop.

2011-03-22T11:50:00.000-07:00

Yes, I cried. As she was loading her boxes to the car, I sneaked off to the bathroom for a little boohoo session. All I could think of was the day that I met her her.  I will never forget the way I felt when I saw those pink chubby cheeks-both kinds!  I heard...'ooooo...you have a big girl!' My eyes were reaching out to see my brand new baby while the nurses cleaned her up.   I remember hearing the nurses & doctor take bets on who could guess her weight. A few said 8 or 9 lbs. But, my labor nurse who came back on her off duty to witness our delivery, said, "My guess is TEN pounds!" When they put all of her little pinkness on the scale, I heard...."na, na, na, na Can't Touch This!" Carmen (labor nurse) was on the money! I gave birth to a 10 pound baby girl. I love my sweet baby girl. She has been a joy to raise. From the day she was born, she has made me laugh & have not stopped laughing at her silliness ever since. Karmyn has a great big wonderful heart. I am very happy & proud of the lady that she has become. Also, I am glad that she is able to become independent. I hope she enjoys this new step forward in her life journey.    But, I remind her often that she will always be my baby girl. I plan to bribe her with homecooked meals so that she will come visit at least once a week.

Even though I got kinda sad, I also got kinda happy. I now have an extra room for all my photography gear. Oh, man do I ever need that extra room. My 'world' (as Terry calls it) is just about to push us out the backdoor. TOO much!   But, before I can completely claim that room there are a few more boxes that Karmyn has yet to pack.   I borrowed Papa T's truck to help her move her bed and some bigger items. We were not able to move her chest of drawers and tv so her daddy will have to help us asap.

A few years ago, my brother built some custom cabinetry and desk area for her room.  Look what is still left on her shelves.   Homerun balls and Softball accolades and awards, Letterman Jacket and even a Homecoming Crown. I was there for every one of those moments. We lived it. We enjoyed it. We treasure the memories. Karmyn moved into her apartment a couple nights ago. She has not yet boxed up these things so I had to snap this picture. As the years go by, I am sure these High School Treasures will eventually make their way to a dust covered box in storage.   Bittersweet.

And, The beat goes on....

...la, da, da, da, daaaa.....

Hey Mama,
I think the way I feel about this shelf of memories reminds me of what you said when I moved to my first apartment. I heard you tell the story about what happened to you a day or so after I finished moving. You walked into my bedroom that was completely, 100% empty of all things "Tootiefied" (that's me). So, you were getting excited about how you were going to use the extra space. When you whooshed open my closet door, the force of the wind made the singularly, solitary item left behind start swinging on it's hanger. It was a pink velvet beauty pagent dress that you made for me when I was in the 4th grade.

So, now I know how you must have felt. Did you have a boohoo session too?

Today is a new day. No more boohoo! Azaleas are blooming in my backyard.

Good old hardy azaleas make me happy every spring.

Jessica – Walker High School – Senior 2011

2011-03-03T09:27:00.000-08:00

Jessica – Walker High School – Senior 2011
TommieAnn called and told me that her only child will be graduating this year! She is a sentimental mom and loves her pretty Jessica very much. When I drove up their driveway, Jessica’s dad, Mark, was rolling out a four wheeler. He had just put a spit-shine on that sucker. No joke. This thing was super detailed with amor-all on the tires and a mirror shine on the chrome wheels. I am sure that all the while he was working, he wanted to please his daughter and make her proud. I had met Jessica once before. It was New Year’s Eve. She is dating my 2nd cousin, Dustin. I did Dustin’s Senior Portraits so he recommended me to Jessica. Thanks man!

Mark, TommieAnn, and Jessica walked with me around their large property to show me some wooded acreage behind their house. Their family is the outdoorsy types. As a family, they love go to the fishing camp, ride four wheelers and all that kind of good stuff. So, today we wanted to capture that vibe. I really enjoy it when my client is in their element. Especially, for a High School Senior, I think it is important for them to be free to be themselves! It is so important for them to show their individual, unique personality during this very short WINDOW IN TIME of their life. So, today, Jessica’s unique vibe is exactly what we got. Jessica is a rubber boots wearin’, four-wheelin country girl for this photo shoot. In real life, she is also girly girl sugar and spice all things nice. She had a smile from start to finish. Speaking of finish, we finished with a change in gears so to speak. When we got back to the house, Jessica changed into a bright pink top which looked outstanding with her complexion. I set up my lighting situation which included a small portable beauty dish as our key light. Also, I went to my portrait lens to capture some close-up beauty shots.

Thanks to the Deshotels family for welcoming me in to capture their Jessica’s Senior Photo Session. Enjoyed it. Hey Jessica, tell all your friends about me! If they haven’t gotten their Senior Portraits, please send them a link to me. I would be honored to capture their unique WINDOW IN TIME, as well.

*p.s. Mark, how could we do a four-wheelin’ photo shoot without getting her back in mud? oops…It sure was a shiny mud buggy!

Create your own free photo slideshow

Photo Field Trip to Bluebonnet Swamp

2011-02-17T15:44:00.000-08:00

While lounging around this morning, I got an unexpected phone call from Mom, "Aunt Clara Faye wants to go on a photo field trip to Bluebonnet Swamp. Do you wanna come with us?... She said she would pick you up....Oh, probably in about an hour...Can you be ready by then?....Ok, well get ready." clunk. I hung up the phone. Minutes later. "Aunt Clara Faye said she is on her way....No, no, we want you to go...Come on, get ready....Well, can you be ready in 15 or 20 minutes?...Ok, go ahead and get ready because she will come pick you as soon as you get ready." At this point, it was a quick splash in and out of the shower, shampoo, blow dry, spot of make-up. Ringggg, Ringggg!...Mom again on the phone, "We are on our way! You ready, huh?"

Yes, I was ready - in record time for me! Bella was in her cage and I was standing at the ready at the back screen door. I had my my purse and camera bag at my feet ready to pick up as soon as they wheeled into my driveway. I jumped into Aunt Clara Faye's "rumble seat" of her VW Bug and zippety doo dah down the road we go. We were on our way to the Bluebonnet Swamp. It was a pretty day. Signs of spring are showing up so we are anxious to go, go go! We parked and began our walk on the boardwalk that meanders around the swamp area. There are no leaves on the trees and the swamp is basically dry but we were able to find photo opps by looking for small details along the nature trail. We had a great time on our hike. Then, we made a stop by the Piccadilly Cafeteria for a late lunch. It was nice to get out and enjoy the pleasant weather and make pictures at the Bluebonnet Swamp. I am sure we will do it again as the season progresses and brings more greenery back to the brown & gray environment.

Here is a slideshow of our experience today. Check it out.

Personalize a slideshow

Valentine's Dinner

2011-02-14T20:12:00.000-08:00

Text messages:

8:50am Terry: HAPPY V DAY SWEETIE!!!

8:56am Me: Happy valentines day to you my love!

9:00am Terry: HEY GAL, HOW ABOUT ROMANIC SUPPER? (when has he ever called me gal?)

9:01am Me: Oh? What's the plan? (i figure-there is no plan. i know that i will have to make the plans)

9:09am Terry: YOU&ME, DINNER AT YOUR FAVORITE PLACE! (just as i thought! no plan-just an idea!)

9:11am Me: You are smooth. What time are you getting home?

9:14am Terry: REGULAR TIME...3:30PM

9:16am Me: Ok. I will try to be ready. Looking forward to it.

9:18am Terry: OK FINE!

So, it was the restaurant inside the Bass Pro Shop.

Happy (Day Before) Birthday Tracy! & A Brief Photo Lesson

2011-02-09T12:25:00.000-08:00

Tracy, my sister-in-law, called and told me she wanted to get out of the house and have a little fun today because tomorrow was her birthday! I could totally understand this reasoning. Personally, I think we should have a Celebrate The Day Before You Turn One Year Older Birthday Day! :) What do you think?

We thought about a movie day to celebrate her Day Before..DAY. Then, neither of us were motivated to do a movie So, I told her we could just take a ride and see what we see. Before the gas prices went up, Terry and I used to enjoy taking what we call a 'country drive'. Country Drive is code for get in the car, pick a direction, any direction because we had NO direction. Drive maps not included or necessary because we intend to follow our nose. Terry likes to drive and look. I like to ride and look. I know that eventually, one of us will bring up the subject, "Are you getting hungry?" Then, the other will say, "Why? Are you getting hungry?" That's when the Country Drive becomes a search for a new Country Lunch Dive.

Today, Tracy and I got in my car and headed west on the interstate. We decided that we were going to look for photo opps. I put my Nikon d5000 with a 55-200mm lens for Tracy to use and of course I brought my camera along with several lens options. It was cold so I asked her if she wanted me to turn on the bun warmers. :) I love my heated seats. We drove. We looked. We saw. Typically, I can always find something that compels me to park the car and explore photo opps. But, for some reason today was different. It was a ride and see what we see sort of Country Drive day.

Eventually, we did the "Are you hungry?" and a true search was on. Tracy and I decided that we wanted to find a place for lunch where we can 'make good choices'. She has recently begun a regime of fruits and vegetables and found her new diet was giving her a better sense of well being. We ended up deciding on Mike Anderson's keeping in mind that we wanted to make good choices. We both chose the soup and salad option from the lunch menu. We each ordered a cup of gumbo and a small shrimp remeloude salad. It was not the fruits and vegetables choice that was our original search but nevertheless, it was good lunch choice because the food was delish!

On our way home, we stopped by train station park in Denham Springs. There was a biting nip in the air because it was pretty windy. But, we braved it out because I didn't want to go home having never whipped out our cameras. The initial intent of the day was to teach Tracy a few tips about photography. When we got out of the car, Tracy asked, "So, do I just put this around my neck?" You see, today was going to be her very first experience with dslr photography.

I love the way the warm evening sun was lighting the empty park bench. I Had to get this shot.

Speaking of evening sun, I showed Tracy an example of using a small aperture to capture the sunburst effect. f/16 used here.

In this image, I was teaching her how to use a single focus point to be deliberate about her image making. I was at a f/4.5 at 180mm to blur the foreground and background and selectively focus on the center post cap.

Here is Tracy's image. I love how she went a little wider and her aperture was at f/9.5 at 135mm. At this smaller f/stop and shorter focal length, the viewer is able to see the entire image more clearly. Yet, look at what she selected as her focal point. It was the same exact center post cap that I had selected in my image. You see how small differences in camera settings can create entirely different perspectives? The differences are obvious but we were both standing very close to one another at the moment of capture.

For some reason, I absolutely love that Books sign capped by that metal owning. There is just something about it that makes me notice it every time. After I clicked off my shot, I told Tracy what I was seeing.

After I mentioned it, Tracy swung her camera up to take a picture. When she did, I said, "Looks like they opened the traffic flood gates." After, I viewed her image, I like the way the traffic has converged at this little corner. Tracy placed her focal point on BOOKS. Isn't this a great image? If only a boy or girl were walking around the corner engrossed in a good book.

Happy Birthday Tracy.
Time keeps on tickin', tickin', tickin' into the future.

Baby Cypress Knees & Row Row Row Ya Boat back to the house cuz you have to be freezin' ya buns off!

2011-02-04T19:33:00.000-08:00

Today's photo challenge was knees. Knees. Well, we live in Louisiana and I always thought that Cypress Knees were an anomaly. Here are some baby cypress knees. That's the best I could do today. It was cold and rainy so I went to only one location, lake at LSU. I thought that I had seen Cypress trees on the edges of the lake. When I parked, there was a small cluster of Cypress Trees close to the bank but not in the water. The water you see surrounding is rain water from today and yesterday's rainy weather.

row, row, flap, flap.
Standing on the edge of the walkway, I looked out over the lake and could not believe what I saw. Somebody pinch me! I thought I went to sleep at LSU and woke up at Harvard. No way! These people can NOT be from Louisiana. Didn't they hear that we had school and office closures because we got down to freezing temperature last night? Besides, I didn't know they made pirogues that long!

whew! I realize that I must still be in Louisiana. There's the familiar aluminum bateau. At least those couyans are wearing their LSU hoodies. :) They might be asking themselves, "What's dat lady couyan doin' over dere wit dat camera, Cher ?!"

I repositioned myself and waited for the rowing team to appear in the frame because I wanted to provide the viewer more information about the setting. I chose to show the picnic table and bbq pit in the foreground because it helps describe the area as a pedestrian friendly location. Also, I used that big tree as an anchor on the left hand side. I think the image would not be as strong without the tree element. Do you see our State Capital Building in the misty, foggy background? I deliberately wanted to show that in the background. It is a recognizable icon of the city of Baton Rouge and State of Louisiana.
This image is sooc (straight out of camera). If I had taken it into photoshop, I might would have cleaned up some of the twigs seen at the top of the image, vignette slightly & straighten the horizon line a bit. But, creating a wow! photoshopped image is not what I am reaching for. My intention for explaining my thought process before capturing this image is to share the fact that I actually had a thought process. I'm not saying this is an award winner. Hardly. But, if you take time to think about making a picture before taking a picture, I think you will impress yourself!

I focused on the upper / center rain droplet and branch. Do you see a jogger or a house or lamp post in the background?
No?
A second after I took this shot, I snapped the pic below...

..I focused through the skinny branches and rain droplets to see the lone jogger.
note: Isn't it amazing how the droplets and branches almost disappear? I am standing in the exact same spot with my camera pointed into the exact same spot with the exact same focal length as the rain droplet picture above.  What changed? My focus. With my 70-300mm lens racked out at 300mm, I allowed my focus point to train in on the jogger in the distant background instead of the tree branch or rain drops. When it locked focus on the jogger, the foreground almost blurred away.  This creates a mysterious impression because the viewer instinctively knows that they are seeing through something but can not clearly identify.
Do you think that is neat? I do.
It is a great technique. You can try shooting through leaves to get a mystical looking impression of a flower or garden statue. I think if you try it, you will be impressed with yourself! :)
Being impressed with yourself is good, right?

We had a stand off. I have to say, he/she won. It began to rain again. Headed home to see my pics.
It was a slow photo day but a slow photo day is better than a
no photo day any day.

p.s. I realize that this is the 2nd post from this week that include water drops on twiggy branches. so, no more. Hopefully, the weather will clear so that I have a different subject.

brrrrr...Louisiana Snow Day, without the snow.

2011-02-03T21:35:00.000-08:00

Well, yesterday Terry and I went out and about town to run a few errands. I threw two cameras in the vehicle along with my tripod. But, my goodness it was so cold, I never wanted to get out to make pictures. I mean it was biting wind that slices right through you kind of freezing cold! Last night, the local weather was calling for freezing rain, sleet, possible snow. So, today the kids got our version of a Louisiana Snow Day. It was cold today but I never saw any kind of freezing rain. Terry did say that he had ice on his truck when he left from work this evening. I am not sure what we will see tomorrow. I think the schools are closed again just in case. This situation reminds me of a skit that I had seen on Onion News Network which airs on the IFC channel. The whole show is a spoof on CNN. Anyway, as I type this, I had to laugh at the idiotic skit about New Orleans temperature dropping to 44 degrees and the city shuts down, National Guard shows up, the reporter was speaking very loudly as if to incite people to realize the urgency of the possible snow flurries. Oh my goodness, it was a totally ridiculous spoof. I know it was a blown out porportion image of how we, in the deep south, are not equipped to handle 'inclement' winter condition. On the other hand, I can see how wimpy we must seem to a Minnesotan!

Mia keeps warm in her snuggly turtleneck.

From the Archives. Gatlinburg Vacation 2007

2011-02-01T22:21:00.000-08:00

Today, I watched a photography workshop on kelbytraining.com. kelbytraining is the brain child and extended enterprise of Scott Kelby. He became a popular photoshop teacher through his 'how to' books. Now, he hosts a website where a group of professionals teach instructional videos pertaining to photography, photoshop, lightroom, etc. I pay a monthly service fee for access to the courses.

The reason, I reached back to my 2007 Vacation Archives today was because I was reminded of Gatlinburg this morning. I watched a new course where the video setting was Cade's Cove, Gatlinburg, TN. Actually, the setting was a frozen wintry 12 degree Cade's Cove. The premise of the workshop was Intimate Landscape. The instructor was explaining the way he finds and composes images in places where it seems to be the 'off season'. He eluded to the fact that during the spring and fall, there are lots of photographers but not during the frozen winter. He demonstrated that during the frost bitten, bare treed winter forest, there are still interesting photos to be created. He started the video in the area of the rustic little house and fencing pictured in the top image. This charming little house is one of the first things I remember seeing when we entered Cade's Cove when Terry and I visited Gatlinburg in early March 2007. As you can see in the image, the leaves are not yet on the trees but it was still beautiful.

The Old Grist Mill above is a restaurant now in Pigeon Forge.

The Ubiquitous Tourist, that's me. Taken by Terry (in 2007 of course). See that red jacket? I wore it today. Do you know how old that red all weather London Fog is? um. I can't remember the exact year that I purchased it but I remember that same winter the girls received a pink and a purple bike with little white baskets and plastic tassels on the handlebars. They will be 23 and 21 this year. I do remember the day that I bought it. It was Grand Opening week for the Tanger Outlet Mall in Gonzales. I just can't retire it. The weight is perfect for our Louisiana weather. It is still in perfect condition..I think so anyway. It might be my proverbial Linus Blanket. I'll probably be a little old lady dragging my red jacket behind me.

I took this picture of Terry reading about the Mountain people in the same area that he took my picture. This was at the lookout point at the Tennessee/North Carolina State Line. All of these pictures were taken with a Kodak camera that I borrowed from Mom. (I didn't get my first dslr until October 2008.) From what I understand, the Kodak company might be in trouble right now. I appreciate the history and contribution that Kodak has made to the photographic industry. The gold and black Kodak brand was the most popular brand of film as far as I remember. I know that digital has almost eliminated the film development business. There are some people who still use film. But, obviously the digital photography age is here to stay. I hope things turn around for Kodak. Of course, they had to jump into the digital game and have produced great quality modern products. I just read about a professional Leica S2 camera that sells for somewhere around 26,000 dollars.
Can you guess who made the sensor for that camera?

Kodak.
http://www.advancedimagingpro.com/web/online/Image-Processing/KODAK-CCD-Image-Sensors-Power-New-Cameras-for-Professional-Photography/67$5461

Go figure.

I like to spin a yarn but here is a Master Yarn Spinner! Take a listen...

2011-01-31T12:58:00.000-08:00

I heard this Story Teller talk this morning and had to share. I found myself sitting in front of my laptop. Then, I began leaning into my laptop monitor. Then, eventually, I was standing on my feet with elbows on the counter still leaning in because I was completely dialed in to the story delivered by a Master Storyteller. His name is Jay O'Callahan. Take a listen. I hope you have several minutes to give him your full attention. If not, I am afraid that you will not be able to fully appreciate. And, appreciation is GOLDEN!

Free your mind...T minus 5,4,3,2,1...PRESS PLAY and be swept away!

Raindrops Keep Falling On My {umbrella that Terry keeps holding over my} Head!

2011-01-30T17:18:00.000-08:00

We left the house.
Destination: movie theater to watch Green Hornet

Looking through my passenger side glass through the rain bubbles. This is the corner lot intersection at Amite Church Rd and Hwy 16. It has been a vacant field for a very long time. It looks like a development is coming. I suspect it will look very different soon. I wish I had old pictures of Hwy 16 when it was a curvy 2 lane highway with trees on each side of the undeveloped land. Now, we have 4 lanes, 3 red lights and we will soon be getting our very own Walmart! I remember when Linda's Chicken Hut put up a neon sign in the early 80's, I believe. A neon sign?! That was a big deal and great source of pride at how uptown we were becoming!

Over the last few months, construction has begun on our new hometown high school & my own alma mater. From what I understand, it will be the largest school in the entire state. Oh my goodness. 28 years ago, my HS graduating class totalled 54 students!

Terry and I went to Chilli's. As we were walking up to enter the front doors, I saw these twiggy branches full of water droplets. I asked him to hold the umbrella over my head while I tried to get a picture. He kept telling me to hurry up. My point and shoot had a difficult time focusing. I think he was getting embarrassed because he thought people were looking at us from inside. He cares about stuff like that. I don't give a fig. But, he kept putting the pressure on me so this is the best I could do. I like the colors and I think the image has a sort of abstract appeal. I kept the image and posted it because it helps me remember Terry holding the umbrella over my head even though everything in him wanted to escape from the worst possible thing...Someone thinking something about him...!
He loves me.
But, he needs to get over himself.

p.s. We ate, felt stuffed, skipped the movie, went to Best Buy for a car charger for Papa T, went home. The end.

Turkey Pot Pie in a Jiffy!

2011-01-29T19:31:00.000-08:00

I made two Turkey Pot Pies tonight from a Taste of Home Comfort Food diet Cookbook. Actually, I found the recipe titled 'easy chicken pot pie'. I decided to use turkey in place of chicken. This recipe is certainly very easy. To prepare the turkey, I cooked 4 turkey breast cutlets in onion powder, garlic & herb seasonings, salt & black pepper seasoned boiling water then diced into small cubes. I made a couple modifications to the recipe simply because I wanted to use what I had. You might like to try the original recipe on page 208. (image of cookbook cover at bottom of post) Below is how I put mine together and they came out perfectly delicious.

For pot pie filling, mix:

1 c. cream of mushroom

1 c. cream of chicken

1 c. peas and carrots, drained

1/2 c. milk

2 turkey breast cutlets or 2 chicken breasts, diced
1/4 tsp. of black pepper

salt to taste

*spray cooking spray in pie plate and fill with mixture

Topping:

1 1/2 c. baking mix (I used Jiffy)

2/3 c. milk

*drop by tablespoon full over the top of the turkey pot pie filling

Bake:

375 degrees / 30-40 minutes

(I lined aluminum foil under the pies in case any liquid bubbed over. It didn't.)

My family enjoys the pot pies that I make with double layer crusts. I like those too. But, I can tell you this recipe is so easy and delicious. I simply doubled the recipe above to make these two pies. When I took the hot pot pies out of the oven, I had to take a quick snap because Terry was waiting in the wings with saucer and fork in hand. On my, 'go', he dished up a nice serving of Turkey Pot Pie to enjoy while he watched his ESPN on this, relax away Saturday.

Kayla and Trevor came home from dinner and a movie and stopped for a tasty taste. After I told them that it was a diet recipe, Trevor went back for another taste!

If you try the recipe, write back and let me know if you like it too. This was my first recipe that I tried from my new Taste of Home Cookbook. I'm anxious to test more. I'll let you know when I do.

WHOA NELLY! Hop off Yo High Horse There Lady!

2011-01-26T18:17:00.000-08:00

Today was mani/pedi day. AhHH... I could not wait to sink my tootsies in the hot bubbly water while I sat in the massage chair. I picked out my favorite Red polish for my toes, then shuffled through the selection of magazines. There were the typical Nail Pro Magazines that really do not interest me. shuffle. shuffle. ok. I'll take Time Magazine. I'll take Herrington Catalogue. I'll take Charisma. I didn't know what Charisma was. As the water began to fill up the foot basin, I chose Charisma.  I was prepared to thumb quickly through the thin pages to see if anything caught my interest. You know what I mean by flipping through magazines absentmindedly. It's just a pass time or a way to stay within your own little bubble as you get your pedi.. The first advertisement was for a Joel Olsteen seminar held in January. I flipped through. Then, a title page caught my attention. There was a large sinister looking face staring straight ahead.  The title of the article read something like Devil in Pew 7. I was curious about what it was about. I began to read. The first paragraph captured my attention as it began with the tension of any good suspense story. The character was running scared. In first person, the author writes how she could feel the pain of her bare feet slapping against the black asphalt street. She could not stop. She needed air. She could not stop to breath. She was running in fear and running for help. As the story unfolded, the author went back to the beginning to tell of a character named Mr. Williams who sat in the Pew 7.  Mr. Williams was a manipulator within the church. What he said, went. No one EVER went against his wishes. Until, that is, her father became the new pastor. Her father recognized this man for who he was. He also realized that even though Mr. Williams had been sitting in Pew 7 for many years, he was not even a member of the church.   The new pastor explained to the church that only members are allowed to vote on decisions within the church. Mr. Williams, realizing that he lost his authority, began to threaten the new pastor and his family. They found their tires slit, found bomb threats against the church. One night, there was a glass that was shattered in her baby brother's room even as the baby was in the crib.  Miraculously, with shards of glass all around, the baby was left unharmed. Then, one night, the Devil from Pew 7 entered the family's home and shot to kill her mother and father.   Her mother died that night.  The author who was a young girl at the time, ran for cover under the kitchen table. She remembered hiding behind the table and chair legs. When she saw her helpless father try to lift his arms and could not.   She knew that she was the only person able to run for help. It took all her courage to try to be as quiet as possible and sneak out the kitchen back door. She ran and ran with everything she had.

Years later, she received a phone call. She could not believe who it was. It was the man that murdered her mother.  During his stay in prison, he was ministered to and found true salvation. He knew that the first thing he needed to do was seek her forgiveness.

Wow, then the next article was a teaching on the Principles of Forgiveness. Do you sense a pattern here?

Then, the next article was a re-telling about the mad man who went into the Amish School House and fired away at 10 Amish school girls. 5 were killed.   Even though their loss was so great, the parents of the children reached out to the wife of the murderer. They wanted to let her know that they held no ill will toward her. After burying their own children the day before, 75 Amish men and women attended the funeral of the man who turned the gun on himself after the massacre. Along with their forgiveness, they brought food and gifts for the family.   Heartbreaking and Heart Lifting at the same time, right?

Yesterday, I wrote about the bitter distaste that was left with after someone disappointed me. 'Whoa NELLY!   Hop off Yo High Horse There Lady!'. That was the message that my spirit received loud and clear.  By some 'strange coincidence', I got the preachin' that I needed through the pages of a random magazine at the nail salon. That magazine, like most of the literature was probably something dropped off by someone as a donation. You know the sort of publications I am talking about... previously perused and passed on!  Do you think it was a random coincidence? I don't. I think there are no random coincidences. I know the Word says that God spoke this world into existence.  I think God speaks to us in many ways. Sometimes a whisper, sometimes He will snatch us by the ear.   I think I got an earful today.

I received that needed preachin' and I have to say I was properly humbled. Humbled by how I blew a situation all out of proportion in my mind. I blew my cool. I repent of my own sin of pride and unforgiveness that I was willing to carry.  I need to get over myself because my SELF can only get in the way!  I am humbled by the examples of forgiveness freely offered by the Amish.   In my SELFishness, I realize that I could only see how I felt. How I was impacted. How I was being taken for granted.  How I refuse to budge one more inch.   ewe. yucky selfishness.

Please forgive me AND my silly SELF, O' Lord.

TRANSPARENCY.
i see you, seeing me.

From Disappointment to Bountifully Blessed...All in One Day!

2011-01-25T15:05:00.000-08:00

The cute shoes, 30% off purchase today.
The big bounty of white? El Noope'!

Definition of Bitter-having a harsh, disagreeably acrid taste, like that of aspirin, quinine, wormwood, or aloes.

I don't know if I have ever actually had a physical taste of quinine, wormwood or aloes as referenced in the dictionary definition. Although, recently, I have been left with a taste of bitter disappointment.  I can attest, my friends, that kind of bitter after taste can be described as harsh and disagreeably acrid.

All I can say in this blog post is that over the course of a few days, I have been bitterly disappointed by someone. I will not express specifics. There are only 2 people who know the instance that I am talking about because one of them was directly impacted. The other is my lifelong confidant. What I can say is that "When you push against me, expect resistance. I have a low center of gravity and will not back down or give one inch more than I am willing!" That is a promise and you can quote me on it. Enough said.

And, then today...! Thank you, Good Lord, for giving me today!

I met someone who heard my heart's desire and then blessed me beyond measure. I have been contemplating a set up for a bridal shoot. I want to recruit some models and create a 'Destination Wedding' portfolio. The problem for me is the fact that I would need a supply of wedding gowns. Well, I have my own wedding dress that is now almost 25 years old. Other than that? Nada. Obviously, my starting point is to find some affordable bridal gowns. In photography, sometimes you can fake a few things. You know what I mean. Think about props and backdrops. Sometimes, the setting is real. Most times, the image presents a mere illusion of reality. With that in mind, I was on a hunt for an affordable wedding gown. I figured that I could simply modify it, if need be, by clamping the bodice, etc...

Along my path, I first stopped at a thrift store. blah, blah,.. Nah! Nothing there. I really didn't expect to find anything at the thrift store that I would like to use but I thought to give it a try. So, I left the thrift store and continued down the boulevard. Actually, I knew exactly where I wanted to shop next. I had been thinking about this shop and even picturing myself talking to the owner. The shop I am referring to is a small, well run consignment boutique. Years ago, I purchased two beautiful formal gowns for my oldest daughter. She still has them today. In my mind, I had practiced what I wanted to ask. I was going to offer to rent the dresses if the shop owner was willing.

I went into the store and there against the side wall were an array of white bridal gowns in clear plastic zippered bags. I saw price tags ranging from 299.00 to 599.00. uh oh. That was way out of range for me to purchase as a prop. The owner stepped up to me and asked if she could help me. That is when I asked her if she ever rented out her dresses. In her kind way, she told me no but wanted to know what I was thinking. I told her what I had in mind. Then, she told me that she might have a dress in the warehouse that didn't sell. That's when she said, "If you look at it and think it is something you can use...Then, I can bless you with it." Ummm. Ahem. Did she just tell me she would give me a dress for free? Yes, that is what she said. My heart was rightly 'blessed' simply by her offer. Just to have someone who is willing to give me something made me feel very, very blessed indeed.

She had her helper go to the store room and pick out a few of her favorite dresses. I picked out my favorite. Then, I offered to purchase a couple more that were left hanging. My intention was to give SOMETHING to the store owner for her generosity. She refused to allow me to pay anything. She said that this selection of dresses were left at the store. They did not sell and the owner never picked them up. She didn't know exactly what she would do with them. Long story short. I left the consignment boutique with SIX bridal gowns! FREE! El Noope'! (no out of pocket expense!) Yes, I was blessed today as I drove home with a back seat chock full of fluffy white bridal gowns! Thank you Lord from whom ALL blessings flow!

Me & Melissa check out latest wedding files at Starbucks

2011-01-18T22:17:00.000-08:00

Melissa and I met at Starbucks to share our images from our latest Wedding. This was Melissa's 1st commissioned wedding. Because she assisted me on almost all of my Weddings last year, I was excited to help her out.

ooooh, so lovely! Don't you wish you could see?

Time for another swig!

Congratulations to Mr. & Mrs. McQuiddy!

Melissa's daughter is behind the lens! When I saw that pom-pom on top of my head, I was scared it was a glamour don't...

So, I 'whip my hair my hair back and forth' to just 'shake 'em off'! Just whip it, Whip it Real Good! & Got my Swag On! lol!

BEWARE, ADVISORY WARNING: If you watch this video, you just might feel the need to uncontrollably "Whip Your Hair Back and Forth"!

Willow Smith - Whip My Hair ( Official Video TyhansTV )
Uploaded by tyhansofficiel. - See the latest featured music videos.

Old Governor's Mansion-Jazz Musicians & Ballroom Dancing

2011-01-14T20:36:00.000-08:00

Melissa of Melissa Roe Photography, and I went to the Old Governor's Mansion to scope out the situation! Not a Jersey Shore 'Situation' but a BR Wedding Expo Situation. Our intention was to find out how other photographer's set up their display and see if there is enough traffic to make the expense worthwhile. When we were walking up to the steps to enter the Mansion, we had to figure out which one of us was going to be the bride! hmmmm... It didn't matter! Hey, they snatched up our 10 dollars cash at the door. So, we went up in there like we owned the joint! Actually, when we walked in we could smell ...sniff, sniff, sniff....Wedding appetizers & h'orderves! My favorite food group.

Melissa and I enjoyed a plate full of super delicious party food provided by Drake's Catering and Heirloom Catering. Both catering companies had food spreads on the huge buffet table in the Dining Room. It was elegantly displayed. Better than that...that food was bombdiggity. There was a Wine and Martini Bar serving their special Blue Tinis. Wafting from down the hall ..., sniff, sniff, sniff...(think Blue's Clues!)...we caught a whiff of that distinctive fine smell of freshly brewING coffee. Ain't no better aroma! So, we followed our noses down the hall and around the corner to the coffee urn. That dark peculated coffee was just we wanted. I didn't count 'em but Melissa was tearing open quite a few packets of creamer and sugar. I noticed her swizzling with the skinny black stir stick. Then, she had to go through a few repetitions of...sluuuuurrrp..sip, sip, sip...smack, smack, smack....til she got it juuuuust right. She is so funny. Me? I don't need NO CereMony! - plain black coffee here. :)

I love to observe how people do things in their own way. People watching is cheap entertainment. Speaking of entertaining, here are some pics that I took of the Jazz Band Ensemble that played during the meet and greet hour. This band was fantastic. I was diggin' on their groove. To tell the truth, I was ready to go lay some James Brown moves out on the dance floor. I decided not to embarrass Melissa. Plus, I didn't want to make a Spectacle of myself! Notice how similar the words Spectacle and Spectacular are. Maybe I should have laid my James Brown moves out on the floor...I just might have been Spectacular instead!

Guess we will never know.

Que Sera, Sera

I took all these pics with my point and shoot that I had in my purse. Beside the fact that I did not want to rudely walk up and pop flash into the eyes of the musicians, I purposefully turned OFF the camera flash because I wanted capture ambiance.

For these moody pics, I love the character that comes through without flash. When I know that I must nail the safe, clear shot, my flash gets turned on of course. But, when I shoot for fun...I can experiment a little. I love the freeedom of digital photography. Some are keepers...some are weepers.

I decided these were keepers.

For the dancers, I knew that I was going to have motion blur because I was not using flash to stop the motion.

I like all these images!!! In the past, I'm sure I probably would have deleted all of them because

a) they are dark. b) they are blurry.

After viewing and studying photography, my eye appreciates imperfections in a new way.

I adore the ethereal effect of the blurring created by the swirling dancers & musicians.

Here is a you tube video of Doris Day singing Que Sera, Sera. I always thought Doris Day was a classy lady. And, we share a First Name!

Yep, my first name is Doris. I was named after my beloved Aunt Dot.

Hand Crafted & Custom Designed...GRANNY BEADS!

2011-01-12T20:24:00.000-08:00

Last month, I went with mom to her bead supplier. What kind of image does, 'kid in a candy store' conjure up? Well, just imagine'Tootie in a jewelry store'! Oh, yeah! Anybody that knows me, can tell you that I am like a fish. Anything SHINY lures me - hook, line & sinker! I am rather proud of myself. I did refrain from buying out the whole store. What I decided on was some very unique beads. They are actually taken from a granite quarry. This granite is very expensive and the Japanese are buying up huge slabs of the stuff for countertops. I could not resist these beads. The overall color looks to be an olive green. Yet, when you look close, you can see colors of purple and gold in the veining. I think they are gorgeous up close and personal. In the first and second picture posted here, I attempted to show their beauty. I think they look pretty here but a photo can not describe the luxurious, weighty quality of the beads. These two photos were taken at Mom's jewelry work bench as she was trying to configure a pattern for a custom necklace design. Mom did finish my necklace that she had begun here. Not only did I get one necklace from these unique beads, I got 2 necklaces, 2 braclets & 3 pair of earrings! I love them. I am in an old black hoodie sweatshirt, yoga pants, tennis shoes and sit here at the computer with my new shiny jewerly dripping off me. Yep, that's me... bedecked and bedazzled to the 'NINES' in my new jewelry as I type this blog post.

Cuz that's how I roll, y'all!

Here is the rose colored swarovski pearl necklace & bracelet strands, plus earrings that Mom created for herself. Previously, she had only created her pearl strands with genuine cultured pearls. Then, she discovered the Swarovski Pearls. They are excellent, excellent quality Swarovski created colored pearls with a Lifetime Guarantee. With the Swarovski name behind them, the quality is unquestionable. It is worth the extra expense for heirloom quality pieces.

Contact Betty Slaton For Pricing Information.

You will be surprised at Mom's prices. I tell her she is giving her beautiful hand crafted jewelry away.

She told me that she likes to do it and is happy with her pricing structure.

Every piece she creates is meticulously and carefully constructed.

You will have something that will last if you are lucky enough to own her

GRANNY BEADS!

our Littlest RugRats

2011-01-08T11:01:00.000-08:00

MIA

Here is our sweet, gentle Mia. She will be 3 years old soon. She is quiet and respectful and really a perfect housedog. Kayla bought her and she became our family's first housedog to actually become a permanant member of the family.  I have never wanted an indoor pet.  When the girl's were young, we tried but it didn't work out. I just don't have the patience. Mia came and stayed. We all fell in love with her. She did make mistakes when she was younger and I fussed like crazy. But, I really love her still. Mia began to get so chubby because she is a true lapdog. I always say that she is a 'stuffed dog with a pulse'. I made the comment one day that she needed a friend that she can run around the yard with. My younger daughter heard this and I am sure her ears perked up because before I knew what hit me,
In Comes Bella!
SMUGGLED In Comes Bella, I should mention!
Yes, Karmyn smuggled her into our home. I woke up one morning and I saw Kayla standing in Karmyn's room while Karmyn was still in bed.  Then, my mom sonar heard, "Have you told Mom, yet?" I did my whip around on a dime and slipped in to find out, "Told Mom what?" Karmyn smiled and slowly pulled out this little 6 week old puppy that she had hidden under her covers. She told me that she bought her for $50 from SPCA. SPCA had set up outside Petco.  When Karmyn saw her, she could not leave her. She quickly reminded me, "Mom, you said that Mia needed a friend!".
I am sure she had that line prepared!
And, that is how Bella  was smuggled into the family. Bella is almost one year old now. She wants to be everywhere that I am.  For so many, many years, I was completely closed to the idea of having an indoor pet. I didn't want the problems. I still do not want the problems. Although, I now know what it means to be absolutely adored by a dog.   Isn't it nice to be absolutely adored?

Bella aka Bellie Belle.

Now, what is NOT nice? Don't get me started! This is a terribly undisciplined dog. If you only knew!
When she is bad, Terry calls her a Thug Dog because she is a mixed breed. Then, I feel sorry for her for being a "thug dog". Then, immediately I realize that she is Thug and she is bbbBad-Bad to the Bone! Sometimes the frustrastion makes me feel like a bull with steam blowing out of my ears.
Then, there are other times when I love her so much.
Like, when I take a nap Bella aways curls up into her duddle bug ball right next to me.
The warm snuggly duddle ball makes everything OK. Needless to say she smuggled her way right into my heart.

We have toys like stuffed cows with a rope running through it laying about the floor. When I say, "Wanna go Outside?" Bella snags it up and shoots out the door. At this point, she is a joyful puppy bounding around the backyard with her cow. Then, the cow comes back inside all slobbery. yucky.
So, it goes in the washing machine.
As soon as it comes out the washer, back to the floor and the routine happens all over again.
Toys in the Floor!
Ugggg...I thought I was done with that long ago!

Dinner (& a Movie) for Schmucks

2011-01-05T08:24:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, after work, Terry called to ask what we were having for supper. I told him the frig is full of left overs so I did not cook. He told me he was pea'd & cabbaged out. Well, he had a point. It is time to clean out all those left overs from New Year's Day because we are now well into 2011.

It is crazy how fast the days roll by! Before you know it..., well I'm not gonna say it.

Dinner for Schumcks was just released for movie rental. I rented it from the Red Box that stands outside our hometown Walgreens. When Terry called, I told him that I had rented a couple movies. He asked me how pizza sounded. Pizza?!! Yeah, pizza and a movie sounds like a winner. He told me to call in pizza and he would pick it up before he came home.

Today's photo challenge is 'Natural Framing'. This morning, I noticed the empty pizza box on the kitchen countertop from last night's Dinner & a Movie. Seeing the pizza box gave me an idea. My idea was to attempt to shoot through the hole in the center of the movie case. So, above is my interpetation of Dinner (& a movie) for Schmucks. By the way, I only saw half of it because Kayla came home and needed my attention with something. The half that I did see was HILLARIOUS! Steve Carrell and Paul Rudd are both two of my favorite comedic actors. Put them together, and this move was INSANE!

Here was my quick set up. I used a lunch box to bring the hole into position to see the little pizza man. Then, I had to strain to get high up on my tippy toes to see down through the hole.

I'm lucky I that I didn't get hurky, jerky motion blur in the close up shot.

Ok, now it is time to go watch the rest of this crazy movie so that I can return it tonight.

Hope you have an INSANELY HILLARIOUS Happy Day! :)

New 2011 Calender Planning - Posh, no doubt!

2011-01-03T18:40:00.000-08:00

Here is my new new planner for this year. Ever since I was a young girl, I always enjoyed writing out my goals, plans and dreams at the turn of each new year. I make a solemn promise to myself that I am going to carry through with my hope of being the ultimate organizer. Lack of organization in my mind and environment has been my perpetual stumbling block. I would love to be the type that puts their hands on something once and make a snap decision about how best to handle the situation. Then, carry out the process forthwith! Oh, yeah...I would feel so empowered if that could be so. But, 'one and done' is not my Modus Operandi. (Method of Operation, or commonly called M.O. in crime speak) Alas, 'one and done' is but a dream for me. If I handle something too long, it brings up 'feeeelings'. Feeeeelings like, "I don't need to get rid of this because, someone gave it to me and I would feeeel bad. Or, I remember how I feeeelt when I purchased it so long ago." I could go on and on about those feeeelings! If you are a Clinger ON-ner, you will know what I mean. Once again, I purchased my NEW YEAR PLANNER in hopes of being perpetually organized instead. Don't you love how fresh & clean a brand new date book is? I do. I love the idea of filling up all the open dates with exciting new experiences.

FRESH & NEW. Those are my words of promise for 2011.

I love the promise of starting the year, FRESH & NEW.

So, here is to a FRESH, new perspective in 2011.

I am sure if you follow along with my daily blog adventures,

you will find out exactly how my new POSH Planner dates get penciled in.

Getting back to my Daily Challenges

2011-01-02T16:30:00.000-08:00

When I first started to do the daily challenges with my Internet photography group, I was a faithful daily participant. Every morning, I would check to see what the inspiration was for the day. Immediately, my mind would dwell on that. I would work up a concept. Then I made sure that I would accomplish it. I worked as diligently on the challenges as if it were a paying gig. In fact my family would often ask me, "What's the word for today?". They had grown accustomed to my loading up the vehicle and striking out on a search for some inspiration so that I could participate with my photo group. I loved having a reason and purpose for my photography. All of that really helped develop and stretch my creative vision as I was learning new techniques as I went along. All good right? Yeah, all good and very worth the effort.

After posting to the group, I found myself spending hours upon hours at the computer. I loved every minute of that part just as much. The social media aspect was the fun part of being in a photographer's forum.   Meeting new online photo friends fulfilled my interests.  I could always find encouragement in this group and tried to reciprocate by encouraging everyone as well. But, by the time I was done, a huge chunk of my day was gone. Can anyone relate to spending way too much of their day's focus on social media? That's not even a question because I know the answer!

So, because of this time killer, I let the housework slide. Ok, I must be fair and admit that I have been known to use ANY form of procrastination to keep from doing dreaded housework!  Aside from the housework problem, too much sitting at the computer causes something else that is not so desirable! uh,huh...!  Needless to say, I knew I had to back off and concentrate on other things including more exercise, please!  I miss my online comrades but I need to do what is in my best interest.

On this January 2011 morning, I decided that I was going to continue to hold off on participating in the social aspect of the group forum but work on the daily inspirations offered through the group challenge. For today, I saw that the word of the day was SCULPTURE.   Terry watched football all day today. Because I try to hang around Papa T. when he is off on the weekends, I did not leave the house today.

I thought about my small concrete statue of a lady holding a basket that I purchased a very, very long time ago.   She sits close to my driveway. Beside her, there is a nandina bush. I planted both of them there and that is where they remain. The statue is still small but the nandina is now tall. I always like to take pics of the little red berries that grow in clusters on the nandina bush.

Here she is.

ok, so...Brandilyn just rocked my world!

2011-01-01T19:48:00.000-08:00

This is sort of a continution to one of my previous posts.
*Refer to http://michellesibleyphotopage.blogspot.com/2010/12/me-brandilyn-on-photo-field-trip.html.

In short, Brandilyn and I went on a photo field trip because she had received a new camera for Christmas. I think I am 'miss let me teach you something about taking pics B-ran!' When I picked her up from her home, we did not have a plan about the WHERE but we had a plan about the WHAT. In other words, we did not know where we wanted to go but we knew what we wanted to do when we got there. Our intention was to pracitice taking pics with our cameras on what I call a 'photo field trip'.

We jumped on the intersate and headed east. Desination? Any destination USA. Actually, as we drove, we decided to visit a local college campus for photo opps. It was the perfect time to go there because school was shut down for the holidays. We pulled into the parking lot and was stopped by the campus police. "Where ya headed?" I told him what we were doing and he gave us permission to park and walk the campus grounds. As we walked about, I showed Brandilyn a tip about changing your perspective to give new interest to a photo. She and I both were doing the 'let's see how a worm sees' trick by getting underneath our subject and shooting up. Here is an example of her two best pics. I'm jealous because when I saw hers, I thought they blew mine out of the water! Ok, so little 'miss let me teach you...' (me) got SCHOOLED by her high school aged niece! And, I ain't too proud to say it because I am a very proud Aunt indeed. :)

I referenced a previous post at the top. In that referenced post, I showed an example of an image I captured of Brandilyn shooting up on this oak tree sprout. Above is her resulting image.
Go B-ran, I love it!

In my opinion, here is the
Pièce de résistance!

Bravo, Brandilyn on a wonderful capture. Great eye!
I love the tree without and the tree within perspective.
I am amazed.....and must admit to feeling properly SCHOOLED!
I didn't even notice this scene but sure glad you did. I think it would make a great wall art piece.
Yes, you did good.
Together, you & your new Nikon s6000 rock!

New Year's Eve 2011 Slideshow

2011-01-01T18:22:00.000-08:00

Terry and I had a great time celebrating the New Year at Barbara & Billy's house. Billy cooked up a delicious big pot of Jambalya & White Beans. Barbara had two tables of her special treats laid out, one inside and one outside. Their daughter, Baileigh made brownies that were gobbled in no time flat. We ate, laughed, talked, danced, bourre'd, watched a fireworks show & toasted a Happy New Year 2011!

We happened to be the last guests to leave. We were trying to wear out our welcome, I believe. Nah, we have not seen Barbara and Billy in such a long time and I was enjoying the visit. Barbara brought up some possible summer travel plans. Oh my gosh, don't even get me started! Terry and I loooove talking and dreaming about vacations, past and future! Poor Billy was sleepy, I just know he was ready to jump in the sack. We'll have to talk VACA again soon. That was fun!

Hey, Barbara and Billy. Thank you so much for your generous hospitality. I created a slideshow of the party revelry. I didn't have my accessory camera flash so I had to use my pop up flash. Bummer...I got some lens hood shadow which I couldn't really fix without cropping into the picture. Then, I got some red eyes that I could fix in lightroom. These images would have been captured better if I had my big flash available. But, all in all, I wouldn't take a million dollars for any one of them. I am so glad that I captured the good time had by everyone. Also, I treasure the group pic captured by Melissa. Thanks to ya, sista photochick.

Here you go. I hope you enjoy the show.

A New PINK-a-TTUDE for 2011!

2010-12-31T15:43:00.000-08:00

Kayla and I went to The Glass Slipper yesterday. She wanted to go in there to shop around. Oh, that Kayla loves to shop. I used to love to shop. I used to love to prance around in high heels. I used to think that fashion was important above all else! I used to have a PINK-a-TTUDE!

Then, over the years, my attention (not to mention money!) all went to raising the girls. I put their cuteness way before mine for all these years. So, my cuteness kinda got lost and my PINK-a-TTUDE was replaced with practical MOM-a-TTUDE.

Guess what? I am beginning to realize that I am not required to be completely absorbed in the MOM-a-TTUDE.  Hey, I traded in my big SUV for a smaller spunkier vehicle recently. What else? I have started to find a little bit more freedom because I do not have college tuition to pay anymore. I think there is still a spark of PINK-a-TTUDE in me yet.

p.s. If you do not have PINK-a-TTUDE before you walk into the Glass Slipper, you must understand that the PINK-a-TTUDE will envelope you before you know it.  The Glass Slipper is so chi-chi, girly girl...for real women!   I can just imagine Lisa (Beverly Hills Housewives) & Jiggy flittering out of this
oh, so pink corner of the Antique Village of Denham Springs!

Yesterday, I did not have my camera ready. So, I called Mama to see if she would ride with me to town. She agreed. This is what I requested. I asked her if she would take my picture coming out of the boutique, THE GLASS SLIPPER so that I could use it for my final post of the year.

Here are some cute little ballet flats that I purchased. I think they have a bit of PINK-a-TTUDE. What do you think?

Well, they are a departure form the utilitarian black leather Clarks or New Balance or whatever name brand that claims to be the most comfortable in the world. Trust me, I buy anything that promises not to hurt my feet. I even bought some Born shoes from HSN because the lady said that when you put them on your feet, they make you wanna do the "Born Boogie".

This was taken at Mom's house. I went back to her computer room/jewelry & craft room. Under her work light, she was showing me some of her latest work. Look at my new pearl necklace and bracelet set. The neclace is a classic 18" length. I told her that I wanted to purchase a set of her real pearl jewelry. She was like, "Oh no. You are not paying me. Have them. Take what you want!" I absolutely refused. I wanted to be her very first customer. I wanted to be the first one to purchase her custom quality hand-knotted pearls on silk thread.

Not shown are the pretty little earring that complete the ensemble. She has already given me a long 32" strand of pearls for Christmas. I love them. Kelly (owner of THE GLASS SLIPPER) noticed my lustrous long strand of pearls that I was wearing against my black turtleneck yesterday. She told me to tell Mama to contact her about the possiblility of selling them in her boutique. She thinks that the brides who visit her store would be interested in a gorgeous classic strand of real hand-knotted pearls. My mom is very interested in marketing her collection of hand crafted jewelry. Her designs include a variety of gorgeous stones and beads.

My brother was watching the slideshow that I made which showed images of the 4 grandaughters receiving their Granny made special beads for Christmas.

He said. "Granny Beads!" Mama told me that she had been trying to think of a name for her custom jewelry. When he said, "Granny Beads" it struck her as a catchy name for her jewelry.
I love it. I think the name GRANNY BEADS is a perfect name!
Good job Bubba.
I think the name GRANNY BEADS is going to stick!

You may contact her at bjslaton@cox.net if you would like to have your own GRANNY BEADS!

Grass is Always Greener...

2010-12-30T21:09:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, Brandilyn and I went on a photo field trip. When I brought her back to her home, she saw that her parents were away. Uh, oh...she didn't have her house key. She called her dad and he told her they would be home soon. I offered to take her back to my house with me and have her parents pick her up there. Or, I told her that I would prefer to hang out with her and walk around looking for something to photograph.

Recently, I downloaded an e-book (http://craftandvision.com/books/close-to-home/). The premise of the book is to express the author's opinion that you do not have to travel to exotic places to find interesting things to photograph. He writes that someone posed this question, “Everything seems so ‘ordinary’ where I live compared to other people and other places around the world. What can I do to create something original or different; something out of the ordinary?”

His writes his response: "Here’s another thing to consider. Other people who live in other places struggle with exactly the same problem: how to make where they live look different or better… or just not ordinary. It’s a variation on “the grass is always greener on the other side of the fence.” Right now, there’s an urban New York City dweller who longs to photograph the green, wide-open vistas of the Irish countryside—and an Irish villager who thinks her photography would be so much more interesting if she could only get to New York City. Both of them, however, might just need to look a little closer at the place with which they’re most familiar."

As shot, SOOC (straight out of camera)

The above (sooc) image of a power line is very familiar and seemingly very ordinary. Yet, when I think about how our culture and personal livelihood is connected to the power lines, it could be mind boggling. From a photographic standpoint, the running lines and repetition to infinity combine to make a strong composition. The exact same picture below was jazzed up a bit in lightroom. I threw a dash of this and a dash of that preset in and came up with something that I think is a bit more compelling. Actually, the presets that I used came from Matt Koslowki's blog http://lightroomkillertips.com/. He offers some of his free preset plug-ins for lightroom on his blog. He is a great teacher. I have much to learn about photo editing.

Continuing to look around, I noticed that Brandilyn was zooming in on leaves that were floating on the surface of her pool. I am a copy cat so I went over there to do that too! Then, I noticed the tree on the other side of the pool was being reflected in the water ripples. So, then I got kinda excited. I thought maybe I caught something extraordinary from the ordinary.

Lastly, I noticed my brother's work boots next to a bag of grass seed. For some reason, I thought there was some kind of demonstration in this image. What compelled me to take this photo? I could not put my finger on it at the time of the capture. But, I knew there was something that made me stop and take time to take 3 different shots. What peaked my interest in my brother's work boots set against a backdrop of stark white, plainly marked Bermuda Grass Seed? ? ?

It had something to tell me.

I realized what it had to say as I was writing this post.

Considering the adage that "grass is always greener on the other side of the fence", it looks like my brother plans to grow green grass within his own backyard. I think this could very well be a powerful metaphor if you allow. To make the decision to actively create your own greener pasture could be the paradigm shift that changes your outlook in a positive way.

Do you remember the good old hymn, "Count Your Many Blessings"?

Let the chorus roll around in your head until it sinks down into your heart.

Then, you will appreciate the 'Green, Green Grass of Home'.

Count your many blessings,

Name them one by one.

Count your many blessings,

See what God has done.

Me & Brandilyn on a Photo Field Trip

2010-12-29T18:24:00.000-08:00

When I saw this Episcopalian Church, I had to stop to appreciate it's charm. The signage in the front garden said that the first service was held in March, 1876. It is immaculately pristine. This beauty has, no doubt, stood through many trials and tribulations, changes of seasons, and changes of time/times. I can say one thing for sure, it has certainly aged gracefully.

I told Brandilyn to grab her camera and put it in Landscape mode for a gorgeous shot of this church. Her parents gave her a Nikon point and shoot for Christmas so we were in search of great photo opps on this day. I am anxious to see what she captured. While we were in the front lawn of the church, two ladies stepped out of the church office to say their good-byes. One of the ladies went along on her way and the other asked us if we would like to come in for a quick tour of the sanctuary. I was utterly astounded by the beauty of the stained glass on all four sides. The church is small but excellent. I appreciate the nice lady who graciously extended her welcome for us to admire her church.

After we left the church, we found another location that we wanted to explore. I told Brandilyn that our assignment was to try to imagine the view point of a worm. This was a tip that Bryan Peterson teaches alot. I had just read that tip in fact in his book about Seeing Creatively. I snapped the two pictures above. I'm pretty sure they are from a worm's vantage point. Obviously, the tiny yellow flowers are low to the earth, just as this little rusty bolt that was on a utility pole next to the curb.

Brandilyn is pictured with her camera as low to the ground as possible. Or, I should say, as low to the stump root as possible. She is trying to capture the image shooting up on the little oak sprout. I saw it in her view finder and it looked amazing. The little sprout looked like a gigantor sprout. It appeared singularly tall and imposing set against a blue, blue sky. Great idea B-Ran! Hey, keep your camera battery good and charged up. Keep experimenting and looking for ways to See Creatively. Thanks for wanting to hop along on my photo field trips.

Excuse me Brandilyn, you look so OC!!!

And, this is me. :)

When I brought Brandilyn home, her little dog named Maggie was in her kennel waiting for someone to come home and set her free. When she was let out, she came running in a flying, feathery fur bundle of fluffy friendliness! Maggie is a beauty and sweet, sweet, sweet.

Oh, yeah, check out my new wheels. We traded in my big 13mpg Lincoln Navigator for a Kia Sportage. It makes me feel young and spunky!

Fireworks for New Years Eve

2010-12-28T17:16:00.000-08:00

I am purchasing Black Cat Fireworks for our New Year's Eve get together at Barbara & Billy's house.  Terry and I are looking forward to rocking in the New Year 2011 at their home. I think Barbara said that Billy is making a Jambalaya.  Yummm, his jambalaya will "make ya slap ya mama!" :)    Knowing Barbara, she will probably come up with her own special goodies to share. I must admit, I do not really have a specialty. Me? I'll probably just bring something that comes in a bag or a jar. I know, I know, not much to get excited about, right?   I must admit, I have never gotten real excited about cooking and cleaning. Poor Terry!  Why the heck am I talking about cooking/cleaning?!...yucky, who cares?...not me! So, back to the party ideas...Yeah!

Barbara asked me to bring fireworks, chairs, and change for Card Games.
I am pretty sure we will be playing Bourre'. Bourre'? Yeah, I looked up the spelling. I have always spelled it Booray because that is how it sounds.  Before posting, I decided to google Booray card game.  Here is the Wikipedia definition.
Wikipedia: "Bourré (also commonly known as Bouré and Boo-Ray) is a trick-taking gambling card game primarily played in the Acadiana region of Louisiana in the United States of America. The game's closest relatives are probably Spades and Euchre; like many regional games, Bourré sports a large number of variant rules for both gameplay and betting considerations."

"...large number of variant rules?" umm, Ya think?  I imagine that the cajuns probably made up the 'large number of variant rules' as the game went along with their hand of cards.  I imagine whoever was most persuasive made up the rules. It is a fun, easy game that a whole table of people can play. The more the merrier. I will make sure to bring a pot of change. Terry said we are gonna lose because we are not brushed up on our ...(ahem)...BOURRE'!

ROCKET WORKS... actually, the rest of the sign reads...RED ROCKET FIREWORKS. This is the fireworks stand I chose to stop at. Every year, I assume that the church gets profits from the sale of the fireworks. I asked the lady clerk and she said they were independent. Shucks. I was hoping to benefit the church.

They had a good selection of big exploding rockets that make huge midnight display. I could not decide which one to choose so I went cheap and bought 3 boxes of BLACK CAT that had just been reduced. I will probably send Terry to pick out something that he would like. He is all about fireworks. Usually, I tell him it is a waste of money and discourage him from shelling out for something so temporary. Although, my recollection takes me back to one year specifically. I have to smile to myself when I think how Terry, my daddy and brother purchased some fireworks. Like proud little boys, they called for me, Mama and Tracy to come out to see their light show. We, three made exagerated 'oooooohs' & 'ahhhhhhhhs' in time to the exploding fireworks! When the last one went up, we heard the boom then saw the huge sparkly trails sprinkle down and fizzle into the black midnight sky. All went quiet. It was over...wa, wa, wah... In unison, the guys looked at each other as if to say, "Are you thinking what I'm thinking?" Like bandits, they jumped back into the truck & stomped on the gas. Us girls were left to watch the glowing streak of tailights as they sped out of the driveway & down the road. We knew exactly what they were up to. They were going to get more fireworks. When they came back, they promised an even bigger boom this time! hah...men are funny!

Knowing that he has my blessing, I am sure Papa T. will gladly trot right up there and throw down some of his hard earned cash on something loud and explosive to contribute to the finale light show.
So, Cheers Everybody! Let's Ring in 2011 with
"oooooooohs & ahhhhhhhhhhs" ! ! !

Christmas Eve 2010 & Sibley Family Dinner slideshows

2010-12-25T17:58:00.000-08:00

We had a very nice Christmas Eve at my brother and sister-in-law's home. She cooked a delicious gumbo. We enjoy very casual family get togethers. No fancy formal dining experiences for us. We live close together and are blessed to visit with each other often. Our type of down home country Christmas Eve means eating good food, laughing & relaxing in a comfortable atmosphere without pretense. Nope, fancy and formal is not in our repertoire. "Repertoire?" You might ask, "Repertoire? ... Really? ... Is that what you really meant to say?"

(sigh). Yes, I know repertoire means a collection of theatrical performances. Our family does not PRETEND to be anything other than who we really are. So, I thought repertoire in this context was the word to use. We do not have to ACT like we like each other. We ACTually LOVE each other.

After explaining about our lack of acting skills, I think the slideshow will represent what I'm talking about. We do join hands in a family circle to say grace. On this night, after the prayer, Mama grabbed her camera and got in the middle of the circle so that she could get the reinactment. A bit of cheezy acting is what she captured. Those pics made the slideshow, cheese and all.

The following slideshow is of Terry's family side. We did something a bit different this year. Our Sherrie & Caleb arrived from out of town a week prior to Christmas Eve. PawPaw invited the entire family to a very nice dinner at Lagniappe Restaurant. He and MawMaw were very gracious to extend the invitation to include the boyfriends/girlfriends of their grandchildren. The food was excellent. Everyone enjoyed each other's company and dining experience. Afterward, no one had to do dishes. How fantastic is that?!

Setting the stage for the Annual Christmas Dance Party 2010

2010-12-20T07:36:00.000-08:00

Sounds for Celebrations

Nelson & Julie talking about something with Curtis and Todd in the background.

It has been about 22 years, I think. I know it has been over 20 years and still going. My brother-in-law has always had a love for music. He also loves to entertain because he truly enjoys seeing people having a good time. Nelson began collecting music and dj equipment over the years as a hobbiest. Eventually, he began a very in demand dj business for years called Sounds for Celebrations. He has chosen to rest his dj busisness for a while. At this time, Nelson is no longer operating as a commissioned dj. Although, every December, he sets up all of his equipment and together ,with a few other guys, rent a hall for the big shindig of the year! There is an open invitation to friends and family to come to this standing room only hoppin' dance party. It is known as the 'Christmas Party'. Actually, it is THE Christmas Party of our town. We can bump into someone in July, and the first thing they ask is, "Will we see you at the Christmas Party this year?" That's the truth y'all.

A Few of the Faithful Original Gang!
Toni said that she and Todd will be talking about the 2011 Christmas Party beginning the following Monday. :)

For the first time ever, I decided that I wanted to try to capture a few scenes from the 2010 party. Terry and I arrived extra early to secure a table. I had my camera around my neck and began snapping off a few shots of the party hall before the people began to arrive. Then, my camera konked out on me. Man, I was frustrated. I was only able to get a few shots of the dj stand and trusty ole buddies Todd, Randy, Toni, Curtis, Terry and of course Nelson & Julie. Another annual tradition is for our friend Don to cook up his big pot of gumbo. We missed Don this year because he was working out of town. So, Sadie (Christmas party regular) came through for us and asked her friend to cook a very delicious big pot of gumbo to share. Thanks to everyone who made this party so much fun and free for so many people to enjoy. You are all good hearted, generous friends and we love you dearly. Merry Christmas to you all and have a very Blessed New Year in 2011.

Oh, and for the first time in a long time, my cousin Barbara, Billy, Bailey and her date came out to party with us. Barbara, we are are so happy that you all came this year! We had a blast with y'all.

I wonder what Terry is whispering in Santa's ear?

Slaton Christmas Get Together 2010

2010-12-13T04:59:00.000-08:00

I created a YouTube slideshow of our family Christmas Get Together. Chris and Aunt Marguerite hosted the party. Thank you both for opening your home for us. Everyone had such a great time. We had plenty of food and ate till we popped. That's the tradition. Another tradition for our family is to circle around, hand in hand to express our prayerful thanks to One who made us & acknowledge the Reason for the Season. This is a moment to treasure.

There is so much love shared in the bond of the family circle. It is a beautiful thing. I enjoyed looking around face to face. As I do, I remember snapshots in my mind's eye of my childhood. I remember that once upon a time, we would gather at our MawMaw Lena's tiny little home. We were elbow to elbow or shoulder to shoulder. But, with our most gracious, loving and gentle MawMaw Lena, there was always room at the Inn. She loved for us to gather at her house. Back in those precious days gone by, her little house rocked with love and laughter. As it did last night. Over the years, our families have not continued to visit regularly like we used to. Yet, we know that there is unconditional, undeniable and unbreakable unity when we show love for one another. Family, a wonderful place to be.

to Ponchatoula and back

2010-12-09T22:45:00.000-08:00

Mama has learned to string pearls! She made some beautiful pearl necklaces. Then, she strung every bead she could find and was chompin' at the bit for more. Aunt Clara Faye turned her on to a place in Ponchatoula called the Turquoise Coyote. This is a bead store. I'm talkin' wall to wall beads of every size and variety can be found there. So, Mama needed to go buy some pearls today. She picked me up then picked up Aunt Clara Faye and off we go...to Ponchatoula.

On our way, Mama is driving with one hand and talking with the other. Her little drop pearl earring (which she handcrafted) is swinging in time with her talking. The little red heart that hangs from the rear view mirror is swinging in time with her driving. I am so observant. heehee. I sit in the back seat and listen and practice my manual camera exposures. They can hear me clicking away but ignore me because they are used to me and the ever lovin' camera stuck to my face.

So, this is the 'on the way back' picture. Aunt Clara Faye wears out her little paper sack that holds her new beads. She can't help but pull out her new lapis beads to admire them. Then, she puts them back in the paper sack and rolls the top back over. ooops....here comes the unroll..out with the beads again. I am sure she is imagining the beautiful strand these will make. Personally, I love the idea of crafting more than the crafting. The potential, the potential...

Look -a- there. She loves those new beads.

She even admires the new style of clasps that she purchased today also.

For some reason, I am captivated by that little red heart. It's still justa swingin'. Trust me, the conversation is still going on in the front seat, all the way there and all the way back. I am reminded of when I was a little kid riding in the backseat of Mama's car. I guess I will always be my Mama's little kid at heart. ...watchin' and listenin'...and swingin'...

I started a new blog...

2010-12-01T15:53:00.000-08:00

I began this blog as a way to document my daily thoughts, inspirations and photography field days and challenges. From the original beginning of the blog, my photography has progressed for me in unexpected ways. Nowadays, I have been posting more photo sessions than ever. So, I decided that I needed a home specifically for my portrait and wedding images. I will continue to use this as my personal blog journal.

I am still learning how to use WordPress so I will continue to post as I learn HTML. The link to my new site is http://michellesibley.com/blog/. Check it out but remember to come back often because it is a work in progress. I am still trying to get it all snazzy, jazzy and presentable, just the way I like it. Oh, and if you see any misspelled words or anything that looks off to you, please drop me a comment. I would appeciate the tips. It is hard to proof your own stuff, ya know.
For today, I will share a few doozies that I took of myself using the camera's self timer on a tripod. My motivation for the self portraits was the need for a bio pic in my new blog. Here you go. Don't laugh too hard.

Ok, a bit off...went back to pick the tripod up a bit...

getting closer but...I Scalped my forehead...

Hellow, out of focus...went back and set the focus point...

Watch yaself...
Show me whatcha workin' with! :)

After a bit of retouch, this one made the cut for my bio pic.

Felicia & Austin - Engagement Session

2010-11-21T16:30:00.000-08:00

Felicia and Austin's wedding is in only 2 weeks! I am super excited and honored to have the opportunity to photograph their upcoming wedding. Today, we went downtown and I followed them around and captured all their gorgousness! I absolutely think they are so charming. Felicia is a spunky, funky modern chick. I knew Austin when he was in high school. I always thought he was such a good lookin' guy. Well, he is still a good lookin' guy. And, oh my gosh, Austin cracks me up. He really, really did not feel like doing a photo shoot. Skipping around and having his picture taken is not his cup of tea. When I called Felicia to set the date and time, I am sure that Austin would have put it off if at all possible. But, luckily my timing was good and I called during the football game. I suggested a time and I heard Felicia ask Austin if it was ok for him. He said, 'yeah, whatever Felicia'..while glued to the game....So, there! He agreed. Book'em Dano!

I did Felicia's bridal shoot a few weeks ago which turned out so beautifully. I will be sure to post those after the wedding. For today, I picked up the couple from their wonderful new home and we headed to BR. I told Austin it was his day. It was all about Austin. wink.wink... He was probably grumbling inside and thinking, 'yeah, if it was Austin day, he would be doing something funNER'. He cracks me up. He picks on Felicia and mimics the way she laughs which only makes her laugh some more. Those two keep a constant banter going. They remind me of Edith and Archie Bunker. But neither Archie nor Austin can fool me... I know both guys are true softies on the inside. Archie loves Edith and Austin loves Felicia. I wanted to end that sentence with a tiny little heart instead of a period. :) They are an adorable couple. I am going to enjoy capturing their wedding day. Yay!!!

p.s. Felicia said that Austin loves his PawPaw recliner and PawPaw slippers. True Archie style!

Check out their slideshow. It turned out way cool! By the way, Austin had fun in the end. I just know it.

We went to the lookout Tower of the State Capital Building overlooking Baton Rouge and the Mississippie River.

Felicia and Austin are going to a resort in Breckenridge for their Honeymoon! When we walked down the steps of our State Capital Building, Felicia was noticing how all the state names are engraved on them. I had noticed Colorado earlier and knew that I wanted to capture something like this. I love it.

Ok, everybody say it with me...Rarrrr!!! Gorgeous!
Look how that sunlight outlines her hair and body. Amazing!!!

Austin, you got it man... IN SPADES!

What can I say? When I saw this huge pillar under the porch, I knew I had my black and white. I asked Austin to take a seat and lean against the post. Then, I showed Felicia what I wanted her to do. She fell into it perfectly. Perfection. That 's the word. I thinik this is quiet Perfection.

New Orleans Photo Field Trip with Jean Ann, Aunt Clara Faye and Mom

2010-11-16T23:02:00.001-08:00

Create a free picture slideshow

Wop, Wop, Wop, went the flat tire-ON The Scary Bridge at That!

2010-11-07T18:13:00.000-08:00

Trevor and Kayla were in front of Terry and I. We were traveling to the semi-annual Jewelry Show in New Orleans. Trevor found his tire low of air this morning. He used our compressor to fill it back up before we left. Everything looked copacetic until we saw Emergency Flashers! I called them, "What's up?"
Flat Tire. That's what's up.

A two lane Insterstate Bridge is NO place to be at a time like this.
Pretty scary stuff there, huh Trevor?

Terry & Kayla are watching the oncoming traffic.
Oncoming at 70-80 mph, that is.

He just broke the lugs.

Kayla gives Trevor a hand putting on the donut spare tire.
Two heads and four hands are better than one sometimes.

Go, Kayla, Go!
Lower that Jack and throw it in the trunk.

Let's get off this rumbling Interstate Bridge, PRONTO!

Once again, We are On the Road to Market.

RESERVATROL...PreservatroL??? Searching for my Fountain of Youth

2010-11-05T17:10:00.000-07:00

Question?

What do you remember about Juan Ponce De Leon?

Answer:

He went looking for the Fountain of Youth!

Question?

What happened to the elderly group of retirees in the 1985 movie Cocoon?

Answer:

They discovered a magical pool and after swimming in the water found themselves rejuvenated!

Cocoon was the sweetest movie. Jeanita and I went to see it at the Broadmoor Theatre together. I will never forget it.

Here is a movie trailer clip. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LhMvucGcfWs

As you know if you read my November 3rd posting, I just had a birthday. ON my birthday, Terry and I went to Sam's to shop. In the refrigerator, not far from the milk and eggs, I saw this promise:

Can you read this? If not, you might need to go grab your cheaters. :)

Can you at least make out the words "fountain of youth"?!!!

Yeah, Mama! I grabbed that sucker up and slam dunked that promise right into my shopping cart!

When I got home, I couldn't wait to start my quest and drink up my very own "Fountain of Youth". I poured myself a glass of the thick burgandy juice into my pretty crystal iced tea glass. CHEERS & Bottoms UP! I can say it made me PUCKER UP. I'm not sure how much I am going to like this stuff. I do like my new glasses though. I just purchased those crystal glasses today. Terry saw me put them in the buggy and he said to put 'em back cuz we had enough glass that just sits in the cabinet. Typically, we use the stacks and stacks of plastic souvenier cups that we collect at mardi gras parades, amusement parks and football games. Do y'all do that too? Anyway, when he saw the word, Dublin, he relented and said, "Oh, ok we can get them if they come from Ireland." He has a big idea that he would like to travel to Ireland. Actually, he really, really wants to go the the land of Braveheart. Scotland! Oh, but wait. His aspiration is to go the Highlands of Scotland and hunt Werewolves! I don't know how he cooks up all these crazy ideas!

Out with the GO Phone, In with the NEW Phone!

2010-11-04T21:03:00.000-07:00

I had to get up to date. That obnoxious Go Phone ring tone has GOTZ to GO! About a year ago or so, I bought the new fangled (at the time) smart phone. I had it for a week and then one day, I think I set it on top of my car. I'm sure when I spun out of the driveway, my phone spun into the ditch! Back in the day, I have punished my girls and refused to allow them to upgrade phones as long as I thought they were irresponsible. hmmmm...well, I guess I didn't want to be hypocritical so I punished myself. I refused to allow myself an upgrade. That's the truth.

Finally, Terry's slick & fancy (in 2006!) Razor cell phone was starting to not hold a charge. We were in Sam's today and I guess I realized that Mama & Papa were ready for an upgrade. We picked out a couple phones today. They are not the fanciest but an upgrade none the less. The guy recommended that we purchase the screen protector sheets that required cutting to fit. Our sweet Kayla took on the task. She is the type that gets things done. Whatever is in front of her, she just goes about taking care of things and knocks that little job out. Terry and I, on the other hand, make a pot of coffee and think things over. Seriously, procrastination is our number one game. I ain't proud of it, but I ain't too proud to admit it.

Today is my Birthday!

2010-11-03T09:30:00.000-07:00

So, today is my Birthday! Thanks to my great parents who brought me into this world and brought me up in a loving home! I love you Mama and Daddy! I have tears rolling down my face as I type this. I do not know why today is a weepy day for me.

The weepies started when I read a facebook post that one of our best friend's daughter was brought to the hospital today. But, don't be alarmed! It is good, good, good! They are going to be proud, 1st time, grandparents today. She is going to have her baby boy today! ON my Birthday! Our prayers are definitely going up for safe delivery for their daughter, Morgan and her tiny precious baby. I have happy, sentimental weepies. ON my birthday. So, don't cry for me Argentina.

As I was washing dishes, I put my playlist on some sentimental music. Actually, I kinda consider these particular tunes as a modern type of folk music. You know..the kind that tell a story. The tracks that are playing have titles such as, Leave Me Here by Hem, A Place Called Home by Kim Richey and Simple Life by...The Weepies! No kidding...The Weepies. Here is a link to my playlist if you want to check out more of my music choices. http://www.playlist.com/playlist/19406021899

When I first discovered Playlist, I would spend hours looking for music that I could use as background for my blog. Lately, I have posted so many slideshows with a sound file attached. For that reason, I muted my playlist on my blog page. I think I have about 3 pages of Playlists. If you like some of my music, take it! Who said, "Here honey have some of mine."? Oh yeah, that was Rizzo from Grease! :) Yep, you can create your own Playlist. It is easy. I love to find tunes that I really WANT to listen to. I can't hardly stand Top 40 radio anymore. That music does not appeal to me. I guess I am at the age where one might start listening to Country music as an alternative. I like Country but would not choose to listen to it all day. Different strokes...ya know?

Well, I am going to put my post on hold for now. I will pick up a little later today..

...to be continued.

It must be a dream! An elf must have slipped in here and folded my laundry. And, look how perfectly folded they are. Who knew?!!!

I walked into the living room where I left a pile of clean clothes to be folded and what do I see? I had to do a double take! My sweet husband folded clothes. Now, having your hubby fold clothes might not be a shock for you. But, for this wife/ hubby combination...SHOCKER! My cousin, Frances told me she loves it when her 'elf hubby' does something for her too. Early today, Terry asked me if I wanted HIM to take ME to a movie. He is a movie buff from waaay back and going to the 'movies' is his favorite thing to do. Then, he asked me if I wanted HIM to take ME out to eat. ahemmm....They don't call him Big Daddy for nothin'. Know what I mean? So, this morning, when he suggested dinner and a movie for MY birthday, it didn't really feel all that special. But, when he folded the clothes? That made me feel special. Yes, I had a Happy Birthday. I love a Simple Life.

We did go out to eat at the Outback as a family. I appreciated the good food but much more than that, I loved the company. Terry and I have spent our entire lives doing everything with our girls. And, I mean everything! What ever we did, they went with us. With the money we saved on babysitting, we spent on family togetherness. The payoff? I believe the payoff for us is that we really KNOW our girls. On the flipside, they really KNOW us. I am so thankful for every moment and every memory that I hold in my heart from almost 23 years of raising our two daughters. Now, that they are grown, we do outings separately more than together. Actually, it is a rare occassion that we all 4 go somewhere together. My adult children have boyfriends, work and interests of their own. They do their own 'thang'! I respect that because I certainly did my 'thang' when I was their age. For tonight, the four of us sat around the round table at Outback together in our familiar family circle of love and comfortable companionship.

Talladaga Weekend Slideshow of Days 1 & 2 Combined

2010-11-01T23:48:00.000-07:00

HALLOWDEGA!!! October 31, 2010

Terry and I traveled with his work buddies and their wives to enjoy a NASCAR Race at the Talladega SuperSpeedway on October 30 & 31st. Chris and his wife, Lycia, brought up the idea of going to experience Talladega as a group. Dicky and his wife, Patty were up for it. They had already been to several NASCAR Races in different locations. Terry and I, nor Chris and Lycia had ever been. Lycia made the initial purchase of tickets for each of us. Then, she shopped around for a Bed & Breakfast. She found a wonderful quaint B&B located in Columiana, AL.

Our hosts at the B &B were owners, Diane & Andrew. They made us feel very welcomed and provided wonderful and gracious accomodations. Diane woke up before everyone on Saturday and prepared a breakfast feast! She knew that we would be leaving very early on Sunday. So, on the night before, she prepared blueberry and banana nut mini-muffins for us. She left little bags out alongside the muffins for us to take to the races. I really can not tell you enough about their wonderful hospitality. Not to mention, the house was a charming Victorian with an interesting history. Andrew and Diane purchased the house a few years ago and worked very hard to fully restore the old house. They have refurbished it beautifully. Diane has placed her special touch to every nook and cranny of this house. Terry and I woke up extra early on Sunday and sat together in the sitting room and enjoyed a cup of coffee. While we relaxed, we were able to look around and appreciate the many unique features of the historic house and furnishings. If you wish to travel to northern Alabama and stay in a Bed & Breakfast, please take a look at Columbiana INN. Diane and Andrew are so friendly. You will feel right at home at Columbiana INN. http://www.columbianainn.com/

Here, I created a slideshow with my images captured on both Saturday and Sunday Race days combined. Saturday was a truck race. Sunday is big race day, of course. I chose to use Lynard Skynard music for the slideshow. I think NASCAR & Skynard go together like rice & gravy. What do you think? Also, I added captions to my images for Day 2 (Sunday's Race). I hope that all of my captioned information is accurate. I was trying to remember what was happening throughout the day as I reviewed my images. It is difficult to recall all the details, even after only a couple of days. For this reason, I think I am going to start using captions a bit more often. This will make it sooo much easier for future recall. With information documented, you will always know exactly when, where, why and of whom a photo was taken. I have a huge stash of pictures that I need to go through, sort & label. Time has a way of blurring all those important memories.

NASCAR Race Weekend, Day 1 at Talledega Super Speedway

2010-10-31T02:27:00.000-07:00

Below is a smilebox slideshow of images from Day 1 of our very first NASCAR Race Weekend in Talledega, AL. This slideshow is a Truck Race that we saw on Saturday. It was exciting and I picked out a driver right away. He was #23. He stayed in the top 3 but rolled the dice...decided NOT to re-fuel. I think he didn't have enough gas to finish out like I had hoped. Darned ole Chris chose the favorite and 2 time winner, Kyle Busch #18. #18 did choose to re-fuel and he ended up doing the Victory Burn Out for the crowd! So, Chris' guy won!

I have captioned each picture in the smilebox. Hope you enjoy it!

Customize a free digital slideshow

Ashley & Preslee

2010-10-28T06:48:00.000-07:00

My cousin, Ashley, had a baby girl! She named her Preslee. Ashley has been a girly girl from the time she was born because her mama dressed her up so prissy & pink! She grew up to be a very feminine, beautiful lady. Guess what?! She and her husband were previously and joyfully blessed with three rambunctious boys!

At this point in her life, Ashley didn't think she was going to have any more children. As the story goes, the unexpected happened & her pink dream came true!

So, I am proud to present Ashley and her pink princess Preslee at 2 weeks old.

Lauryn is 4!

2010-10-26T21:32:00.000-07:00

Lauryn turned 4 yesterday. She told Kayla that she wanted Barbies! So, Kayla and I went to bring her some pink birthday presents. Oh, she was so cute!!! I don't think she was expecting us. She greeted us at the back door smiling ear to ear and exclaimed, "You brought me pres-thents?!"

Of course, I just had to make a smilebox because anytime I am around Lauryn she makes me SMILE! :)

Make a slideshow

High School SENIORS photo shoot October 17, 2010 - Baleigh & Tiffany *Bonus Pics from my sisterCHICK...!

2010-10-24T12:23:00.000-07:00

Baleigh and Tiffany were at the photo shoot bright and early Saturday morning. And, when I say 'Bright' and early, I mean that sun was poppin'! Now, I love that big beautiful sun. But, when the sun is so high overhead, it makes photography very dfficult. We had a hard time finding even light.

With all that said, I am happy to say that Baleigh and Tiffany's beauty outshone the sun!

Gorg-E-O-so!

Thanks girls for bringing your smiling, willing faces to our photo shoot. I wish I could have spent a bit more time with y'all actually. I knew that you had your Jackette dance camp to attend so didn't want to keep you too long. Oh, but believe me...I could have photographed you all day!

Bonus Pics from my sisterCHICK!

Below is a slideshow created using only pics taken by my partner photoCHICK, Melissa! I love having Melissa around and working with her. She is a blast and has such a passion for photography. At one point, one of the girls looked down at me and said laughingly, "Look she's on her back on the ground over there!" Then, she looked at Melissa and cracked up! She said, "...and so is she!" Yep, me and Melissa looked at each other with grass stuck in our hair and clothes and started giggling. Both of us will do anything to 'get the shot'! I hope you enjoy the slideshow with the files that she brought to me. I enjoyed creating this slideshow. Even though, we had the same model in front of us at the same time, our images have a different look. She did a tad bit more tweaking to her color balance to create a more stylized effect while I left mine more natural. I love seeing how every photographer's creations have their own signature look.

High School SENIORS photo shoot October 17, 2010 - Caitlin & Ashleigh

2010-10-21T00:28:00.001-07:00

Caitlin & Ashleigh are total sweethearts. Melissa and I were happy that Caitlin came and brought her good friend, Ashleigh to the photo shoot event. I told Caitlin that she reminded by me of Olivia on Jerseylicious. She laughed because she though I meant Jersey Shore. She had never seen Jerseylicious so she didn't know who Olivia was. I have been watching this season of Jerseylicious and it cracks me up. The setting is a beauty salon in New Jersey. Lots of drama!

Thankfully, the only drama that Caitlin & Ashleigh brought to their photo shoot was their dramatic beauty. At first, I chose the song Daughters by John Mayer for their slideshow because I love that song. I am sure their parents are so proud of their two precious daughters, Caitlin & Ashleigh. But, then I decided I wanted something more upbeat so I went to an old Charlie's Angels Soundtrack. Hey girls, I hope y'all like your slideshow.

I told Caitlin that she looked very 'girl next door pretty' and Ashleigh looked rock-n-roll chic! Each of them could not have been any more precious.

Thanks girls. You are Fun and Fabulous!

High School SENIORS photo shoot October 17, 2010 - Allison & Lexi

2010-10-20T22:42:00.001-07:00

Allison and Lexi are two High School friends. Oh, my did I enjoy these two girls. Melissa invited them to our all day Senior photo shoot event. They are both beautiful girls with big friendly smiles and personalities.  Allison and Lexi are super cool chicks. They are also very down-to-earth and open to play! I hope they will always be playful and free spirited. Allison has a dark complexion and Lexi is beautifully fair. I wanted to ask Lexi if she had an Irish heritage when I saw her light blue eyes and features.

I created a slideshow with some of my fave individual shots that I captured.  We walked over to catch some buddy pics by the pond. And, they played with me and all my crazy ideas. I love it! I am anxious to see what amazing shots Melissa was able to capture.

I used Shakira's song Gypsy for the slideshow music. Shakira is my favorite artist.  I love her cuz her Hips Don't Lie!  lol...I really love her song Gypsy.  The life of a gypsy has always captured my imagination. I hope you enjoy the music along with Allison and Lexi's slideshow.

We found some Amazing Light under the pavillion by the pond! Puuuurrrfection!

High School SENIORS photo shoot October 17, 2010 - Bryan & Vyctoria

2010-10-20T16:57:00.001-07:00

Melissa invited the very handsome Bryan to model for our new business partnership. We wish to tap into he High School Senior photography market. Bryan brought along Vyctoria. They were sooo much fun. Both of them have a great free spirit and tried all our suggestions. Bryan and Vyctoria provided us with many, many photo opps. They are the cutest couple. We enjoyed them both. Their photo shoot began shortly before dusk. We were racing the sundown. I am happy about the timing actually because we caught some nightime couple's shots at the playground. These shots were an unplanned bonus.

Thanks B & V for coming out to play with us. You are both adorable!

p.s. The slideshow music is Shakira. I loooove Shakira so I downloaded her new album. The song I chose was Men in the Town. Vyctoria found her Man in the Town!

High School SENIORS photo shoot October 17, 2010 - Kassandra 2010

2010-10-19T11:43:00.000-07:00

I want you to meet Kassandra. Melissa and I coordinated a High School Senior photo shoot at North Park. Kassandra showed up all 'pretty in pink'. I think that with her blue eyes, red hair, pink top and gorgeous light all combined to help us create some beauties.

I asked her what kind of music she liked. She said she liked oldies. Oooooh, I like oldies too. Well, oldies mean different eras for different people. I remember that I was an elementary school aged kid when Tom Jones came to town. My mom, Betty H. and Jeanita just haaaad to get tickets to see him in concert. Then, they had to be extra pretty for Tom so, a new pant suit was just right for the occasion...soooo groovy 70's!

So, let's bring back a little Tom Jones with She's A Lady for Miss Kassandra.

Kassandra, I hope you enjoy your slideshow half as much as I enjoyed meeting you and capturing your smiling face and eyes.

To request session fees and package pricing information from the PHOTOCHICKS, email: michellesibley@att.net or Melissa.Roe@lpsp.org

Let's Talk Turkey

2010-10-07T15:51:00.000-07:00

Ok, I almost forgot how to blog! Seriously, I have not blogged in such a while. Also, I have not been flickring much either. Actually, my flickr flame was almost snuffed out. Something happened to my photography interest lately. Within the last couple months, I have agreed to take on a few wedding assignments. These weddings were commissioned by another photographer who has a busy studio front. He told me that he liked my work and wanted to book me for wedding work as an associate photographer. I agreed and immediately he began to book a few Saturday wedding dates for me. I was thrilled about that prospect because I so enjoy photographing weddings. I will come back to the wedding stuff because I have more to say about that.

At the very same time that the wedding work opportunity came up, I had met with a couple ladies (mom and daughter) who wanted to collaborate efforts to create a new three-way business venture. Oh, boy...the tug o' war began. When I say, tug o' war, I mean in my own mind. I had to figure out what really wanted to do and what suited me best. I knew that me and the two ladies were all on the same 'page' with our ideas. It seemed that we came together so organically. We brainstormed, and had brilliant pow-wow sessions where we bounced inspiration back and forth. It was so thrilling to imagine putting feet to all of our ideas and begin marketing asap. But, the voice of realistic long term planning had to come into play. Realistically, we had to look at the actual cost of doing business vs. the profitability split three ways! ...not the optimal results we hoped for...Dang it all! One evening, for funzies, we had a mini-photo shoot in the space that we wanted to designate for studio photo shoots. Our photo shoot was a ton of fun. We laughed, giggled and did some character role modeling...Fabulosity Baby! It was indeed a blast until I got home and had to crop the ceiling out of every image. errrrrrch! that is me hitting my brakes hard! I already knew before we did the Fabulosity Photo Shoot that the low ceiling was an obstacle. We needed a good 10 feet plus of ceiling height for a proper studio space. We were wanting to use a space that was attached to their store front. But it was too low. Suffice to say, I was disheartened. It was not the optimal studio space and collectively, we weren't prepared to rent a larger space. So, I told them that I was going to back out for now. Along with my blessings, I wished them all the best success if they were to find another photographer. She said they didn't want any other photog. So, the conclusion of the story might remain, TBD. For now, our business plans are on hold....

Now, I have to talk some Turkey about the other business opportunity. I have completed my first wedding assignment and absolutely fell for the bride, groom and family. My mom came to assist me as my 2nd shooter. She did a great job. She actually captured one of my favorite pictures of the day during the wedding ceremony. I would show it off here in the blog but I don't think I should. The wedding was commissioned by another studio. I agreed to be a contract shooter therefore, those files will become the property of his studio.

This is where I think my flickr flame began to diminish. Gosh, I don't really know how to explain how I feel because I do not know how I feel. If you know me, you will know how I feel about my images. I get a personal attachment to them because they are MY BEAUTIES! In a weird way, I feel like I created them so they are mine to protect and hover over like the mother hen that I have always been to my 2 kids. Weird? Yeah! I admit the weirdness!

Keep that weirdness in mind when I say that somehow I feel like a surrogate. Do you know what I mean? I feel like a surrogate photographer. I knew, going into the wedding assignment, that my mission was to provide my time, talent, & energy toward a wedding that was not my own. I put my heart & soul into a wedding that was not going to be mine. I labored with sweat pouring down. Yes, sweat literally pouring down in the sweltering September (only in the south) outdoor wedding. After all said, and done...I can honestly say I loved it. I loved every minute of it. I fell in love with that wedding. I loved all of the images that Mom and I captured.

Alas, tomorrow, I am scheduled to turn over all of my wedding BEAUTIES! I am grateful for the opportunity to work. I will always give my all to each and every assignment My problem is letting go.
So, for me, Surrogate Photography is quite the Turkey!

*This posting was prompted by a flickr challenge today. The topic of the day was Color Clash. I saw this colorful JIVE Turkey at a flea market.

"I Am New Orleans", you tube musical video by Vince Vance

2010-09-05T12:55:00.000-07:00

Mom sent me this you tube video.

"...Trow me somethin' mister,
I hear y'all scream
At the parade that never ends
I am New Orleans ..."

Brass Garden Sprinkler

2010-09-03T18:51:00.000-07:00

Today's photo challenge was BRASS. This was an easy find. I stepped out the front door of my house and took a picture of my garden sprinkler that lives in the overgrown jungle. I really need to dig up everything and start over. That sounds like a project that can wait just a bit longer until the cooler fall temperatures. It is still so hot down here in South Louisiana. I really appreciate the cool days of fall. Of course the excitement builds with anticipation of LSU and Varsity Football. This topic starts buzzing into everyone's conversations as we have hopes for a great new football season.

Brandilyn, my beautiful niece

2010-08-30T19:05:00.001-07:00

TRACIE is a RED HAT LADY!

2010-08-29T12:13:00.001-07:00

This week's theme is PHOTOJOURNALISM. I thought that my images below told a fun birthday story.

We threw a Surprise 50th Birthday Celebration for my wonderful sister-in-law, Tracie! Bridget is a long time best friend of Tracie's. Bridget called me and told me she wanted to host the party. I was very excited to be involved. Friends, Family and Tracie's Pokeno ladies decided to pool some money and purchase a gift certificate for a bed and breakfast. We chose Nottoway Plantation in White Castle, LA. It is one of the grandest mansions in the area. I hope that Tracie and Ronnie enjoy their visit to the plantation b&b.

Tracie's friend, Donna, has invited Tracie to her RED HAT LADY Society. We themed her party with RED HATS. I am glad that we did because it was so fun to party and play with the feather boas and silly hats.

Tracie had to get her "cheaters" so that she could read her cards. But, she needed a little bit more spot light. I love this image.
Line dancing gets the Party Started.

Ice, Ice Baby!

Check out her party images on this little slideshow that I created.

Personalize a free slideshow design

Visit to Nottoway Plantation

2010-08-27T21:28:00.000-07:00

Pause Playlist Music, Then Press Play

A picture slideshow by Smilebox

Hey, Girls (& guys) let's make a trip down to Houma to see Tab Benoit! seriously yall...!

2010-08-24T07:57:00.000-07:00

Reminder: TURN OFF PLAYLIST MUSIC before pressing play on you tube video below.

Tab Benoit will be playing music at the 2010 Voice of the Wetlands Festival on

October 8/ 9/ 10 - Houma LA

FREE ENTRY

Check out Tab Benoit http://www.tabbenoit.com/.

Representing America

2010-08-23T19:40:00.000-07:00

Representing the Melting Pot that is America

Daily Photo Challenge
Subject: Represents your Country
August 23, 2010

America is my home and I remember as far back as elementary school, my teachers would say that America is a Melting Pot of Nationalities.

When I think in terms of symbolism, the deep red liquid candle wax reminds me of the the sacrifices of our 'red blooded' America's forefathers and brave Service Men and Women who paved the way to freedom. In addition, the hot liquid reminds me that people continue to risk it all to become an American. With all the chaos going on in the world, I must remember to appreciate who I am and where I live. I do hope that we as Americans can come together as right living, working class citizens to bring common sense back! And, once again become that beacon on the hill. "As Ronald Reagan emphasized, America is a shining city upon a hill whose beacon light guides freedom-loving people everywhere."

The Eyes Have it!

2010-08-21T23:01:00.000-07:00

I have always loved the enigmatic, ethereal look of a face framed by a headwrap or scarf. I think Rachel looks especially beautiful in this picture. Oh, if I could turn back time. I wish I would have had the ability to capture portraits like this of my two daughters as they were growing up.

Although Rachel is a very young girl, I think women of all ages look beautiful when captured in this simple, yet sophistocated way. I am very proud of this portrait. I want to do more, more, more like this.

Rachel's True Colors...Beautiful Like a Rainbow!

2010-08-21T14:26:00.000-07:00

Check out Rachel's photo session. Remember to first PAUSE PLAYLIST MUSIC before pressing play! She was such a great model. It was super hot and I was sweating to death. But, when I came home and saw these beauties of Rachel that I captured today, it made all the hard work worthwhile. I loved every one of her images. All the images you will see in the slideshow are as shot straight out of the camera. I brought an arsenal of lenses but never used any other than my Nikon 35mm 1.8. I love that versatile lens. If you are a Nikon shooter, go get one. Hands down, it is the best couple hundred bucks you will spend.

Laundromat visit on this Rainy day...

2010-08-17T21:39:00.000-07:00

So, this was today's rainy weather view from inside the laundromat. Do you see my camera lens peaking out?

I decided to bring our two supremely spoiled pooch's doggy beds in for a good washing.

As I waited, I pulled out my point and shoot, Panasonic Lumix. I love this handy purse sized camera. It takes perfectly great pics I believe. Originally, I purchased the little camera per Terry's request. He wanted one to fit in his pocket. It finds a permanent home in my bag now. Sorry, Big Daddy. I have a camera fetish. What can I say? For some girls, it's shoes. For me, it's cameras! And, I want to pack all of my cameras around with me at all times. I need options! Speaking of options, now, I really want a great waterproof camera. How cool is a waterproof camera?!! COOLer than cool and I think I must have one. It is on the LIST.

Anway, as I wait, I notice that this place is so clean and well maintained. They have a very friendly and helpful attendant on site full time. I feel very safe and comfortable here. I sat and read my book and watched the sudsy progress through the window. To be honest, I quite enjoyed myself.

Today's photo challenge was a simple one word challenge: BAGS. I looked down and my straw bag was at my feet. My old good buddy, Natalie gave me this a while back. Natalie and I had reconnected after many years. I love that girl. In 1983, we became inseparable best friends from the moment we met. She came to work in the membership and billing department where I worked. Oh, we thought it was fate that brought us togethe to be bosom buddies for life. We realized that we are one day apart in age and born in the same hospital. We became fast friends. I thought she was hilarious and the most fun person to hang out with in the whole world. She appreciated my fashion sense and I immediately became her stylist. I was so proud of her because she went from country girl to 80's fabulous! You better believe, we pranced around in our pointy toed pumps EVERYDAY and thought we were 'IT'.

Our's and Cyndi Lauper's motto was "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun!"

Flash forward 25 years...bunyon pain....need I say more? ouch...No more prancing!

So much for the flashback to the 80's and back to the present day laundromat scene. I loved the dynamic blue/white flooring. I took the picture above and posted for my challenge 'BAGS' pic. I had to laugh last night at Nelson, my goofy bro-in-law. He told me it looked like a flower pot. hehee. He has a point. :) I love this straw bag. Not only can it carry my point and shoot, it can easily tote my Nikon d90 as well. If I wanted, I could throw in my d5000, and maybe a couple lenses, include a couple accessory flashes. And don't let me turn around to grab my first dslr which was a Sony A200 with my 3 favorite Sony mount lenses. After all, I can't leave out the Fuji S800 which was my first slr type camera that I absolutely loved .... (all part my desire to carry my entire camera accumulation referred to above). I forgot to mention the tripod and reflectors that stay in my vehicle. Am I nuts? I keep telling myself simplicity is best. But, I don't listen.

Finally, the tuffet for the doggy princesses was dry a poofy once again & I am going home. uhhhh...well, not quite yet.... I WAS going home but ended up talking with Tracie and she told me to come meet up with Sherrie, Mrs. Frances and Julie at the Whistle Stop. I took the detour toward the coffee shop. I want to visit with Sherrie as much as possible while she is in town. We visited and laughed and talked about...'You Name It'...everything! I have a big idea that I discussed with the girls. It is still in he 'I'm thinking it over' stage right now. I can't unleash it just yet. But hopefully it will come together soon....TBD!

When I first walked in, Mrs. Frances was ordering her sandwich and coffee. I whipped out my big camera...Pow...shutter snap and the FLASH lit up the room ! Mrs. Frances turned around surprised and I heard the lady behind her say, "Am I going to be in the newspaper?" We all laughed. Maybe I should have warned them, "MamaRazi is in the Hizay!".

"Hey yall, Strike a Glamour Chicks in the Rain pose!"

Divalicious Coffee House Chic :) !!!

Thanks girls. Let's do it again soon.

Caleb and Sherrie came home to celebrate our nephew's 6th Birthday!

2010-08-17T21:02:00.000-07:00

Our Caleb and his mama, Sherrie, (Terry's baby sis) came home to celebrate Caleb's birthday this year! We were all so excited to see them. They live about 12 hours away and we miss them dearly. When the family found out that we get to celebrate Caleb's big 6th birthday, we were very happy. The plan was to go to Pappi's Fajita Factory in Denham Springs. We got a gigantor table for 18! Of course, we enjoyed the great food and loud, raucous birthday fun. Caleb opened his gifts and gave big squeezy hugs all around to thank everyone for coming to his party.

Happy, Happy Birthday Caleb!

favorite line from the clip "...isolate and crush the secular, socialist left..."

2010-08-17T09:51:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=qtjfMjjce2Y

I agree with this man. Do you?

Bride and Her Photog in Action at Louisiana's Old State Capital Building

2010-08-10T05:16:00.000-07:00

When Brandilyn and I visited the Old State Capital Buildings in Baton Rouge, I noticed a female portrait photographer and her subject on the steps leading to the front entryway. As we entered the building, we walked around to the spiral stairway. There, we caught a glimpse of a beautiful bridal session in progress. After ambling around downstairs, Brandi and I made our way up the spiral staircase to the second floor. Again, we happened upon the photographer capturing his bridal portraits. This time they were in the ballroom. I asked him if I could take their picture. He kinda laughed and said that he prefers to be "behind" the camera. Hey, I hear that! I think that behind the lens might be my secret motive to become a photographer. :) I posted a few snapshots of the shoot. I asked him for contact information so that I could email the files to him. He quickly gave me a business card. I would have loved to find out more about who he is & talk all day about photography. But,I couldn't hold him up, he had work to do.

Well, this morning, I remembered that I had placed his card in the side pocket of my purse. I decided that I needed to honor my promise and send him the pics. When I went to his site, I was blown away. He really has done an amazing job with his web page. More importantly, his photography is incredible and inspiring. I enjoyed cruising around his site and gobbling up all his tips. I noticed that he is offering a Mentorship Workshop in the Baton Rouge area. The next one available is in November. I would love to participate in that workshop. Since, my birthday is November 3rd, maybe I can call it my b-day present to myself! If you would like to check out his work go to http://www.markeric.net/. He is based in the area of Alexandria, LA.

Hands, Helping Hands...

2010-08-08T18:59:00.000-07:00

Hands, Helping hands...

I don't know about you but old fashioned "barn raising" scenes in movies really move me. When I see people come together in a spirit of community & compassion, it really makes me believe...I believe in brotherhood. I believe together, we can move that mountain. So, this photo of my dad, uncle and brother's hands together helping with a family workday & house painting for my aging grandfather reminds me of an old song called He Ain't Heavy, He's my Brother.

PawPaw celebrated his 87th birthday earlier this year. Although, he continues to live as independently as possible, the family joined forces and painted his house. I think I can speak for the rest of the family and say, "He Ain't Heavy, He's Our PawPaw".

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He Ain't Heavy, He's my Brother

song by The Hollies

(B. Scott and B. Russell)

The road is long

With many a winding turn

That leads us to who knows where

Who knows when

But I'm strong

Strong enough to carry him

He ain't heavy, he's my brother

So on we go

His welfare is of my concern

No burden is he to bear

We'll get there

For I know

He would not encumber me

He ain't heavy, he's my brother

If I'm laden at all

I'm laden with sadness

That everyone's heart

Isn't filled with the gladness

Of love for one another

It's a long, long road

From which there is no return

While we're on the way to there

Why not share

And the load

Doesn't weigh me down at all

He ain't heavy, he's my brother

He's my brother

He ain't heavy, he's my brother...

Family Workday at PawPaw John's

2010-08-07T21:40:00.000-07:00

Airport Good-byes

2010-08-02T19:40:00.000-07:00

Today's photo challenge: A Single Window

I had to run errands, pay bills and do some Monday stuff. I grabbed my camera on the way out the door but did not find any inspiration for a photo to go with today's challenge subject. That may be because when I saw the subject, I immediately remembered this sweet picture of my nephew. I rode with his MawMaw, PawPaw and Aunt Tracie to bring him and his mom to the airport for their return home. This photo is soooo precious to me. He and his mama live in a different state and we do not get to see them as often as we would like. So, Caleb is a big boy now and his birthday is this month. The family is anxiously waiting for them to come home in a couple weeks. We are excited to celebrate his B-day with him this year!

Sherrie and Caleb, We can't wait to see ya!

Modified shelves to fit the 73" tv for the man cave!

2010-08-01T08:28:00.000-07:00

Terry had to cut out some shelves from the built in bookcase unit so that he could fit his new tv! On Father's Day last month, the television flipper (him!) came across QVC selling this tv as a Today's Special Value. I told him to 'change that channel'! I am a recovering QVCaholic. He said, 'Wait, I want to hear what they have to say....' Minutes later he had me calling in the order for this 73" tv. When it arrived, we had some modifying to do. We set it up temporarily on a stand until last night when he could cut out the shelves. So, I was painting and staining to repair the patches at midnight last night. When I saw that my photo group's challenge for today was shelves, I told him to strike a pose.

Smokey and the Bandit movie was on. See that hot spot on the screen? That is the hot spot from the flash. I thought it worked out that it looks almost like a huge headlight beam from the big truck.

Terry asked me how much of my stuff actually needs to go back on the shelves. He told me if I didn't hurry up and put my things back up, he was going to put his football paraphanalia up there. With 2 daughters and me, he has lived in a girl world for a long time. I think he is ready for a man cave. Actually, this is the living room. It would be super nice to build a cave for his retreat. He would hibernate there I am most certain!

Follow up:

Jean Ann (blog: http://jakozlowski-athousandwords.blogspot.com/), asked a great question about the hot spot and how I was able to get it line up with the headlights on the big truck image.

Here is my answer: "Anytime, I tell my family members to 'go over there so I can get your picture...' and IF they decide to cooperate...I have to get that shot is 2.3 seconds or Its Over! If I take longer than that, I get eye rolls, shoulders thrown down in a huff, and looks that say "Would you hurry up and get this over with!" So, there is no time for creativity. I did a test shot with no flash and the tv picture was great, but all else was dark. Tried a couple different apertures but I knew I was going to lose my subject. So, I cranked it over to auto and let the pop flash fill up room. Timing of the two shots were deliberate. I wanted to have an iconic image on the tv screen and there was big ole Burt Reynolds, larger than life. I couldn't pass it up. Then, when I saw those big trucks rolling down the interstate, I knew I wanted that image too. Terry had no idea what I was getting excited about but I told him it was so cool. I knew I was getting the hot spot but, 'whatever'...ya know? So, when I downloaded the images, I noticed where the hot spot was on the trucker shot & thought, "HOT DANG!"

So, longer answer short, dumb luck. "

Brandilyn and me - photo field trip to the State Capital

2010-08-01T00:16:00.000-07:00

Brandilyn, my niece, went on a photo field trip with me to the State Capital a few days ago. I had some resources that I needed to return to ELBA so I asked her if she wanted to ride with me. Brandi is always so easy to be around. Anyway, another place that I had in mind to visit was the Walker Museum. I had seen that John Gallager's beautiful nature photography was currently on display.   When she jumped into my car, I handed her my Panansonic Lumix and told her she can take shots of anything that she finds interesting.

Silly me, I went to Walker and realized that I had not gotten the directions to the museum. We stopped at the Police Station and they helped me with directions. We finally found our destination and went inside the small old house turned local museum. They have really put together a very nice collection of artifacts. I especially loved looking over all the old photos that are posted on huge display boards. One in particular, piqued my imagination. It looked like a WWII period photo in sepia coloring of a couple in love. What I liked was the manner in which the man had his arms wrapped around his girl. It was like he was hugging her around the waist in that WWII kind of way. I know, I know....hugging in a WWII kind of way? That was so silly and vague sounding to try to describe it like that. If you would see it, you might know.  The way they were laughing into the camera was terrific also.  It made me want to attempt to recreate the vibe and style of that earlier era. I find it so interesting how there is a certain 'flavor' about those old photos.   I think my parents would very, very much enjoy browsing through this museum. Lots of local interests there. I can't wait to go back and discover many more treasures.

After we left the Walker Museum, Brandi and I decided to go to the new State Capital tower lookout. I had not been there since I was a little grade school kid. Listen, I remember that school field trip and I didn't like it at all. Oh my goodness, walking up to the guard rail and feeling the sway was terrifying. Dizzy! All I wanted to do was sit down flat on the ground. So, almost 40 years later, I went back to the tower lookout. As we were riding the elevator to the 24th floor, I could feel that school kid apprehension rising up in me. But, I decided that I could do this now.   At floor 24, we had to catch a different elevator that went up to the tip- top of the tower. Ok, we made it. I stepped out onto the landing and voila! I did it! It was not so bad. Although, when I would walk around, I kinda got a bit dizzy. I asked Brandi if she felt it too. She said she did.

I took some pics of Brandi. Here she is taking pics from the top of the State Capital tower lookout. The following pictures are Brandi's images. To Bran, I think you have mad skill! I love you and Happy Sweet 16 on Thursday, next week!!!

She took the picture of my reflection as I was studying the replica model of the Old State Capital Building in the glass case. I saw my own reflection and was reminded of an photographer's interesting work that I had seen here: http://craftandvision.com/authors/eli-reinholdtsen/ Her name is Eli Reinholdsten. She sells a pdf version of her book Chasing Reflections. She teaches technique to capture artistic reflections in photographs.

I had just seen the front cover of Reinholdsten's advertised book this morning so it was fresh on my mind when I noticed my reflection. I asked Brandilyn to try to capture the image. At first, I could see her and the camera in the glass reflection. I knew she would be in the picture and it would not be as effective. So, I asked her to move around to the side until I did not see her camera reflection. We laughed as she kept adjusting her position around the glass case in order to capture the right angle. You can see the lady and son who walked into the room as we were experimenting. We just kept going with our project. It was fun and her photo turned out neat. To me, when you catch human reflections, sometimes it appears as an apparition. wooooooo....spooky.

I gotta say, "Great job, Bee-RaaN!" :) Oh, yeah and congrats on that driving learner's permit!

I think I am going to purchase that pdf that I mentioned. It is only $5.00. I think that it is great value and definitely worth a look see!

Remembering Maw Maw Irene's Coffee Milk (Café au lait)

2010-07-27T18:27:00.001-07:00

Daily Photo Challenge
Subject: Stretchy
July 27, 2010

For the stretchy challenge, I tried to get my husband to draw back the sling shot. He finally cooperated with a stipulation which was... "IF" I took his pic while sitting in the big boy chair as he was watching TV. Not alot of enthusiasm there. So, that was not really the image I was going for. Then, I looked around and remembered that I had flexi straws. They are a tiny bit stretchy, right? You know how one idea leads your imagination in all kinds of directions? Suddenly, I remembered my favorite drink when I was little kid. MawMaw Irene would fix me a big glass of sugary sweet coffee milk. She had this one certain green glass that was THE coffee milk glass for my brother and I. In good ole MawMaw style and for the special touch, she invariably plunked in a bent flexi straw. Well, actually she would put it in straight so that I could bend it over to hear that cranky sound. Oh, yeah. It was so delicious down to the last little slurrrrrrrrp! Lastly, I would turn the glass up and throw my head back to get that final tiny drop. What a simple treat but a memory in my heart forever. Now, I am nostaglic for the Sunday evening program I used to watch when I stayed with MawMaw...Wild Kingdom.

Laundry Buds

2010-07-26T18:46:00.001-07:00

laundry, originally uploaded by michelle*sibley.

The photo challenge today was "Holes". I posted this picture. No, the subject of this photo is really not holes (even though the laundry basket has holes). Rather, I posted it because I liked it. To be honest, I don't know why really I like it so much. It is an ordinary simple life chore. For some reason, this moment of two young (mostly spoiled type) people working together on a menial task like hanging clothes captured my imagination. Instead of telling them how I would hang all the blue towels together neatly on the front row.... I think The blankets should be hung straight and neat by matching the corners before pinning them on the line. And, certainly if there are any underwear to hang, I deliberately hang them on the middle clothes line. Because, a) never on the front lest anyone can see them hanging front and center in clear view, or b) never hang undies on the back line because the neighbors can see the unmentionables through the cracks in the fence! HUh? !!! The heck you say! Do I really think that my neighbors are going to peer at our underwear? Hardly! We have the sweetest neighbors we could ever hope for. I'm just saying that thought crosses my mind and as a result, the unmentionables get tucked behind the bigger items. Who really gives a flying poop-de-doo what our undies look like anyway? Seriously, I did a Chester Cheetah head shake as I type this because I realize how those silly little idiosynchysies can pop into our consciousness. OK, don't go getting all holier-than-thou on me...I know you have a few silly little hang ups too. It is called being a human being. We have to learn to call out those poison darts as they really are. All lies from you know where! Hang ups are hang ups whether goofy like the one I described or an ominous phobia that gives you night sweats. Know what to do about that? Shake, Shake, Shake it off and start living! About any fear (or goofy hang up) ask yourself..."What is the worst thing that can happen?" Talk out the answer even if it is to yourself. Usually, we can snap out of a hang up as quickly as we got trapped if we can realize a paradigm shift. Go ahead, think of one of your silly hang ups. If you can't think of one right now, some day when it pops up on you unexpectantly, I hope that you remember to do your own Chester Cheatah head shake. Rattle the rocks in your head hard enough to make you get back on track with what is real and important. Real and important? That would be living and loving friends and family. Accepting people for who they are, warts and all. Then, your own warts won't be so noticeable, even to yourself.

Did I get off on a tangent or what? I think I did. So, I will hop back off my soap box...(pun intended)... and continue with my laundry story. This is where I quickly realized that I need to get over my useless idea of what is the right way to do a simple thing. Also, I figured, if they are going to volunteer to wash and hang the laundry, I should let them. And, that I should also let them do it however the heck they darned well please. And, so I did and so they did.

I shot a series of photos of Kayla and Trevor hanging towels and blankets in the backyard...no faces....just legs and shadows. Then, puppy Mia pops into the mix. I like the anonymity of these. It could be anybody, anywhere. Also, the shadow play behind the pink blanket was pretty cool.

p.s. Kayla walked up on me while I was working on this post. She squinted her eyes and looked closer. She said, "WHAT in the world? Are those MY legs sticking out?" She just laughed and walked off.

Earthy Evening Shade

2010-07-25T21:17:00.001-07:00

earthy evening shade, originally uploaded by michelle*sibley.

Today, I posted to the Daily Photo Challenge. I really enjoy participating with a group of very encouraging and talented photographers. Every day a new challenge subject is posted. Today's topic was favorite color. I like lots of colors. I like to wear red. All bright colors and shades of blue remind me of water which is wonderful. Anyway, when it came time to decide on a a final image to post that represents my choice of colors, I chose earth tones. I find that the older I get, the more earthy I have become. I appreciate nature and natural things more now than ever. Remember when you were a kid or even young adult? The most fun vacation idea would be a great amusement park or some kind of physical adventure, right? For me, it was my choice. Now, at this stage in my life, I long to see the natural world and experience places that my eyes have never seen. Just last night, Terry and I talked about how we appreciate all the places we have been and experienced. But, we also were making a list of the places we hope to visit. All of those places include unique landscapes with amazing natural views.

In the picture above, I captured the sun beginning to get low over the old oak trees at my husband's parent's home. I absolutely love those big swaths of golden highlight landing on the ground and tree on this evening. When I see that golden sun, I get so excited. This is the color of my favorite time of the day. I thought it created a beautiful and peaceful scenario with the benches under the tree. Yet, for me, the subject of this image is the earthy colors. The greens, golds and warm brown tones are what attracts my attention. When I posted the image to my flickr group for discussion, some of the comments made me smile. So many said they thought this looked like a nice place to sit and relax or read a book. This was truly a great compliment because I knew that my image evoked a certain mood as they pictured themselves in this very setting.

Day Trip to Covington Antique District

2010-07-23T21:38:00.000-07:00

Mrs. Frances, Tracie, and me while having lunch on the sun porch of a restaurant named New Orleans Food and Spirits. Below, is the entrance to the restaurant.

After lunch we strolled a block to the English Tea Room for a pot of steaming hot Earl Grey Cream and desserts.

The man seen in the picture above is the owner of the English Tea Room. I enjoyed his English accent and friendly personality. I hope to go back again soon.

* Below, I posted a slideshow with all the images I captured from today's outing.

Photo album customized with Smilebox

E-Session with Felicia and Austin!

2010-07-17T22:39:00.000-07:00

Well, it finally happened! I met my December bride today and she is a doll. Felicia asked me to be her wedding photographer about a couple months ago I think. We have been wanting to get together for a face to face meeting but just never found the right time. Anyway, we did talk on the phone for a good little while. I was asking her questions about what she and Austin like to do together. What does he like to do? mud riding! I didn't figure she would want engagement session caked in mud. :-) Then, I asked her what she likes to do. She said anything on the river. Jet skiing is her thing! So, I knew I had a couple of outdoorsy fun lovin' people. What I was trying to get was inspiration ideas for the Engagement Session. In the end, she came up with an excellent idea to go to her PawPaw's land because he has a beautiful pond and wooded acerage. Both of us got excited and made a date for the photo shoot. We could only hope for good weather. Well, today finally arrived...photo shoot date. The weather has been good all this week leading up to today. So, when she called me yesterday to see if we are still on, I told her all was still a "go"!

But, as it happened the rain clouds starting rolling in at about the time that we were to meet up. Man! She called her PawPaw and he said it was sunny at his house so we made the decision to give it a try. Terry went along to help me with lighting. So, he drove his truck. As he was following behind Austin's truck to PawPaw's land, the bottom fell out and the rain poured down on us. ooooh! It was looking pretty ominous. We kept going though and ended up coming out of the rain as we got closer to our destination. Oh, goodie. I was happy because I though we were going to slip by the rain. Wouldn't you know, as soon as we drove up to her PawPaw's front door, the rain started. So, we took shelter on his front porch and decided to do a wait and see. The rain seemed to ease up for us so we decided that since we drove all this way, we wanted to get in a few shots. No time for chit chat...it was a rapid fire photo shoot! We managed to take some photos by the pretty trees and worked our way down to the pond. Felicia asked if they should do a different outfit. I told her sure. We walked back up to the house so they could change clothes. I'm telling you, as soon as we stepped up onto the porch the bottom fell out. We all looked at each other and said we thought the rain was set in. We didn't really think it was going to let up for a while. I packed up my gear and Terry and I got rain soaked as we ran back to our truck. All in all, we had a wham, bam, thank you mam, get'er done in record time Engagement Session. But, the images I captured show a couple very much in love. And I am proud!

Check out their gorgous E-Session. Press Pause on Playlist Music above. Play Smilebox.

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