Savoring The Sweet Life

Marianne and Dana are engaged! San Diego, La Jolla, Torrey Pines Engagement and Wedding Photographer

2012-01-27T05:00:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited to share the engagement session for Marianne and Dana!

I've captured the weddings of both of Dana's brothers and was over-the-moon when they called to ask me to capture Dana's wedding as well. YAY!

(And along that line, can I just share that they called to make sure I was available to capture their wedding day before they finalized their wedding date? How amazing is that? Talk about feeling honored! I'm over the moon!)

We met at the incredibly gorgeous Torrey Pines Reserve. And the first thing we did was head out the Canyon Rim trail to the exact spot Dana proposed a few weeks before~!

(Of course I asked them for a quick re-enactment so I could capture that special moment on film for them...So romantic, don't you think?)

We wandered around the park finding one gorgeous backdrop after another...they are so delightful to be with - I can already tell their wedding is going to be fun and amazing!

So much in love and SO much fun!

Their wedding will be in July - so stay tuned!

Would you like to see their engagement photo show? Click HERE

And just one more portrait before the park closed....

When you are in love you can't fall asleep because reality is better than your dreams. Dr. Seuss

Newborn Tyler: San Diego Baby and Newborn Photographer

2012-01-26T05:00:00.001-08:00

Well, I promised it wouldn't be long before you got to meet Sara and Scott's newborn....remember their maternity session? HERE?

May I introduce Tyler William?

He surprised his folks by arriving about three weeks early, but that was okay with them!

He is tiny and perfect in every way---so adorable!

And he was wide awake and watching us for most of his session -- I think he's going to be an alert and active baby!

And one more in the little elf hat:

A wee bit of heaven
drifted down from above-
A handful of happiness,
a heart full of love.~ Uknown

A Thrifty Valentine Decoration....

2012-01-25T05:00:00.002-08:00

Before we leave the town of Julian, I have to share a rather interesting Valentine decorating idea we spotted as we were heading to the car.

The lovely painted hearts first caught our eye, but as we paused to admire it we saw:

A Valentine ~~Christmas~~ tree! Talk about getting your money's worth out of a Christmas tree!

It was decorated with lovely ornaments and red and white lights...

And butterflies!

And little ornaments dedicated to famous couples...

So remember next year, don't throw away your Christmas tree - save it for Valentine's Day!

"Use it up, wear it out,
make it do, or do without."
Proverb

Our Julian Road Trip

2012-01-24T05:00:00.000-08:00

Every autumn my friends and I head to Julian for a bit of mountain air, shopping and lunch.

So why am I posting this in January, you might ask? (did you ask that?)

Well, this year, our trip was rescheduled THREE times! (Once because of a Julian snow storm!)

But finally, in mid-January, our autumn trip FINALLY happened! (Better late than never, right?)

I first need to mention the BEST part of our day (next to just being together with friends) --LUNCH!

We always go to the same place (The Julian Cafe) and we all order the SAME thing.

The Julian Apple Salad with avocado, chicken, candied walnuts, apples, blue cheese and I think there's some lettuce in there too....and poppy seed dressing.

(Luckily it's a SALAD so it's low in calories...right?)

It is absolutely TO DIE FOR!

(Can you believe the waitress remembers us every year? So if you go, tell Tammy the Apple Salad ladies sent you!)

Course you might feel like dessert instead...?

And I always have to order a boot of diet coke....because where else can you drink out of a boot?

Seriously, this is AU-THEN-TIC western stuff I'm talking about here folks! This is the way cowboys drank their diet coke...I'm all about keepin' it real!

Well after lunch, we strolled around town.

You can't go to Julian without a bit of shopping. We always go to the bird watchers store, the candy store and the general store...

And of course you can't be in Julian without visiting the pie shop!

After picking up a slice of pie to take home to our hubbies....

We were headed toward the car....

...when we spotted this little shop.

We were going to wander in here just because the name is fabulous and the owner MUST have a great sense of humor....but they weren't open.

Next time, Nick.

Julian Chamber of Commerce:
WELCOME TO JULIAN, this premier mountain getaway, just an hour east of San Diego, in the beautiful Cuyamaca mountains. Take a step back in time to the days of Julian’s beginning rooted in the 1870s gold rush. Get away from the hectic rush of city life . . . discover the charms of Julian. See where gold was discovered . . . . Shop in stores housed in historic buildings . . . some dating back to the 1870s . . . . Sleep in a romantic B&B or historic hotel . . . . Sample Julian's famous apple pies . . . . Hike and picnic amid oaks and pines . . . . Ride down Main Street in a horse-drawn carriage. Enjoy!

Derek: Class of 2012 San Diego Portrait and Musician Photographer

2012-01-23T05:00:00.000-08:00

Derek is really into his music - so of course he chose to bring his cello to his portrait session.

We met at Seaport Village - my first time there for a portrait session and I hope not my last because it was beautiful!

And I love to capture at least a few portraits with mom and dad -- they are a big part of who he is and help tell the story!

Best of luck to you, Derek as you head out to college!

I hope your dreams take you... to the corners of your smiles, to the highest of your hopes, to the windows of your opportunities, and to the most special places your heart has ever known Anonymous

Bokeh - (Or really pretty sparkly lights)

2012-01-22T05:00:00.001-08:00

The official definition of "Bokeh" (A Japanese word) is the blur or aesthetic quality of the blur in the background of an image.

HERE is my post from a few years ago describing it in more detail Take a look at that, then pop back here.

I'll wait for you while you're gone....

Okay, now that we're good on what bokeh IS, I want to show you something you can DO to it.

(And yes, I prepared this tutorial in December and then forgot about it. So that IS my Christmas tree in the background - I don't want you to think my tree is still up!) :O

If you haven't already noticed, we're going to turn little spots of background light into SHAPES!

First you need to grab a lens with your lowest fstop. (I used my 50 mm 1.8)

Trace the lens cap so you have the exact size of the lens and then cut a shape in it. (I used my heart shaped punch)

Then cut a strip of black paper and tape everything into a cylinder. Essentially you will be making a black paper sleeve to slip over your lens.

Mine is messy, but no worries, it works.

Then set your scene by finding a background with sparkly lights. (I captured these images in December so I used my Christmas tree, but your garden in the sunlight would work too!)

Put your subject in the foreground, then have some space between that and your background.

And start snapping away. SOMEHOW that one itty bitty shape you cut out is magically transformed into tons of beautiful little shapes!

AMAZING, don't you think?

"Bokeh characteristics may be quantified by examining the image's circle of confusion. In out-of-focus areas, each point of light becomes an image of the aperture, generally a more or less round disc. Depending how a lens is corrected for spherical aberration, the disc may be uniformly illuminated, brighter near the edge, or brighter near the center. Lenses that are poorly corrected for spherical aberration will show one kind of disc for out-of-focus points in front of the plane of focus, and a different kind for points behind. This may actually be desirable, as blur circles that are dimmer near the edges produce less-defined shapes which blend smoothly with the surrounding image." [HUH?]

Joshua is One Year old! San Diego, Poway Baby and Child Photographer

2012-01-21T05:00:00.000-08:00

You might remember meeting little Joshua before...I've had the priveledge of capturing his newborn portraits, HERE

AND his 6 month portraits HERE

Today he is 1 year old!

Mom brought some adorable little outfits and a really fun set of letters to spell out "ONE."

(She got them at JoAnn Fabrics for just $2.00 each and just painted them - wouldn't that be a fun addition to any portrait session? Maybe 2012 for a high school senior?)

We had plenty of time to capture some family portraits...

As well as some of Joshua on the go!

And I'll tell you, the next two are actually some of my favs, because I REALLY wish I had something like these of my Matt when he was little....

I think you don't realize how special something like this is until you look back....

Or hugging mom's leg? So SWEET!

And honestly is there anything cuter than the rear view of a toddler in a cute little pair of blue jeans?

AND I have to tell you the Joshua's 1st Birthday portraits were FREE because he was enrolled in my "Baby's First Year Program."

(If I capture your Newborn and 6 Month portraits, your Happy Birthday Session is FREE!)

Before we end, I thought you might like to see a cute little video show I prepared for Joshua's folks that features some of his newborn portraits, 6 Month portraits and 1 year portraits as well.

(This is my free gift for my "Baby's First Year" Clients)

Essentially it's his year in review! Click HERE to watch.

While we try to teach our children all about life,
Our children teach us what life is all about.
~Angela Schwindt

The Evolution of Sunset from on top of the world!

2012-01-20T05:00:00.000-08:00

Hubby and I were out hiking not far from home when we noticed a gorgeous sunset.

So I pulled out my camera and captured it...

**OF COURSE I had my camera with me...when you have a hungry blog to feed every day like I do, you never leave home without your camera!

Then I noticed a few minutes later it was even more beautiful.

So we paused and I snapped another photograph.

And then a few minutes later, it was even MORE beautiful as the color extended across the sky...
(and just so you know, my sweetie pie of a hubby didn't mind that I was stopping us every 3 minutes, he was enjoying the sight as much as me!)

Well then we noticed that as the sky got darker, we saw some pinks and oranges that we hadn't noticed before....

Until the sky was a painted masterpiece!

So I thought it would be appropriate to post all the portraits and call this series "The Evolution of a sunset!"

"Softly the evening came. The sun from the western horizon
Like a magician extended his golden wand o'er the landscape;
Twinkling vapors arose; and sky and water and forest
Seemed all on fire at the touch, and melted and mingled together."
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

[LOVE THAT poem, don't you? And so appropriate for today's portraits!]

Change bread into Cake: Magic Macaroons

2012-01-19T05:00:00.000-08:00

My mom remembered an old recipe from back when she was in Home Ec class.
(Just a few years ago I think...) ;-)

We gathered our ingredients-- just THREE things! White Bread, a can of eagle brand milk and a bag of coconut.

Cover the bread with eagle brand (we first tried dipping, but later decided spreading it on with a knife would be better.)

Then roll in coconut flakes...and place on a cookie sheet....

Then put under the broiler set on low for 4-8 minutes depending on your oven. Flip them half way through and watch them closely.

I'm not kidding you, they are AMAZING and taste 100% like real macaroons! Seriously, you will eat the whole pan while they are still warm, so don't plan on having leftovers....I'm just sayin'

Recipe from the 1940's Eagle Brand can is HERE if you want to take a peek!

“I'm not a vegetarian! I'm a dessertarian!” Bill Watterson

The Wedding of Toni and Michael: The Reception! San Diego, Bonsall Wedding Photographer

2012-01-18T05:00:00.000-08:00

After the ceremony, the guests moved to an enclosed backyard patio where a delightful reception awaited.

The details were amazing!

The guests enjoyed a lovely cocktail hour, dinner and of course, dancing!

And grandkids are the PERFECT addition to a wedding, don't you think?

So Sweet!

And what's a reception without a garter and bouquet toss????

I dreamed of a wedding of elaborate elegance,
A church filled with family and friends.
I asked him what kind of a wedding he wished for,
He said one that would make me his wife.
~Author Unknown

The Wedding of Toni and Michael: Saying I Do ! San Diego, Bonsall Wedding Photographer

2012-01-17T05:00:00.000-08:00

I mentioned the wedding was at the home of the groom's sister, but did I mention that it was raining?

Rain is good luck on your wedding day! And the bride adores the rain, so she was happy as could be!

The groom was enjoying every minute of it too.

And what an adorable bridal party...with the groom's grand daugher starting things off as the flower girl.

Congratulations!

Irish Blessing
May God go with you and bless you,
May you see your children`s children,
May you be poor in misfortune and rich in blessings,
May you know nothing but happiness from this day forward.

May joy and peace surround you both,
Contentment latch your door,
And happiness be with you now And God Bless you Evermore.
May you live you life with trust, And nurture lifelong affection,
May your lifelong dreams come true for you, Move ever that direction.

The Wedding of Toni and Michael: Getting Ready! San Diego, Bonsall Wedding Photographer

2012-01-16T05:00:00.000-08:00

Gorgeous gown, don't you think?

I had the honor of capturing a sweet, intimate wedding held in the groom's sister's lovely home.

A small wedding doesn't mean you can't have amazing details!

The bride's sister is a professional photographer too, so she brought along her camera to capture some of the fun as well!

The gown was designed and created especially for her!

Her gown designer, Karol, stopped in before the ceremony to check on the bride:

And Karol also shared some of my wedding portraits with her clients and on her website - here's a lovely brochure she prepared to showcase the dress:

Love one another and you will be happy. It's as simple and as difficult as that. ~Michael Leunig

Guess WHOOOOO is visiting our house?

2012-01-15T05:00:00.000-08:00

Our barn owl house has new owners!

Yay!

These photos were taken in total and complete darkness at 10:00pm WITHOUT A FLASH!

Wondering how to do that?

I did this by prefocusing my camera (on a tripod) during the day, then turning OFF auto focus. (Because a camera can't focus on its own in complete darkness without the help of a flash.)

Then later that night, I set my camera shutter to stay open for 15 seconds letting in so much light it looked like daytime.

(Of course that required the owls to stay still for 15 seconds - luckily my owls cooperated!)

I'll be posting more photos and video from inside the owl house in the next few weeks.

Here's some info on barn owls:
One nesting pair of California barn owls could consume as many as 2000 gophers, rats, and mice in their lifetime.

The Barn Owl has excellent low-light vision, and can easily find prey at night by sight, but its ability to locate prey by sound alone is the best of any animal that has ever been tested. It can catch mice in complete darkness in the lab, or hidden by vegetation or snow out in the real world.

(I think they must have heard my camera shutter - that's why they were looking at me!)

A young barn owl will have as many as 12 babies in a clutch, and they spread their clutch out; they don’t lay it all en masse. It is every other day two eggs, every other day two eggs; they spread it out over the whole spring.

Barn Owls are generally monogamous and pairs often stay together for as long as both are alive. In San Diego County, Barn Owls often lay eggs between January and April. Female Barn Owls lay an egg every other day, with clutch sizes ranging from 3 to 8 eggs. The female incubates the eggs for a month while the male feeds her.

Right after hatching, the mother tears up pieces of food with her beak to feed the chicks. She will stay with the young owls until the youngest is about 12 days old and has a good coat of down.

The female Barn Owl tends to be more spotted on the breast than the male. These spots may act as a stimulus to the male, indicating the quality of the female.

The Barn Owl is one of the few bird species with the female showier than the male. The female has a more reddish chest that is more heavily spotted. The spots may signal to a potential mate the quality of the female.

If you have an idea of good owl names, let me know...!

The Barn Owl calls infrequently, the usual call being a drawn-out rasping screech. The courtship call of male at nest is a shrill repetitive twittering. Adults returning to a nest may give a low, frog-like croak. When surprised in its roosting hollow or nest, it makes hissing and rasping noises and snapping sounds that are often called bill snapping, but possibly made by clicking the tongue.

Hear some mates calling HERE

Beautiful Jasmine: Class of 2012 San Diego High School Senior Portrait Photographer

2012-01-14T05:00:00.000-08:00

Gorgeous, don't you think?

We met at the beautiful La Jolla Cove - a place she often came as a child.

She had a great selection of outfits and had already decided on some cool locations for her portraits.

What a fun time- enjoying the scenery, creating some amazing memories and chatting about her future...

I think I have the best job in the world!

The secret to living the life of your dreams is to start living the life of your dreams today, in every little way you possibly can.
Mike Dooley

Book Club: Daughter of Fortune

2012-01-13T05:00:00.001-08:00

Daughter of Fortune is a novel by Isabel Allende, and was chosen as an Oprah's Book Club

Here's a quick synopsis:

An Orphan raised in Valparaiso, Chile, by a Victorian spinster and her rigid brother, young, vivacious Eliza Sommers follows her lover to California during the Gold Rush of 1849.

She enters a rough-and-tumble world whose newly arrived inhabitants are driven mad by gold with the help of her good friend and savior, the Chinese doctor Tao Chien-California opens the door to a new life of freedom and independence for the young Chilean. Her search for the elusive love of her life gradually turns into another kind of journey, and by the time she finally hears news of him, Eliza must decide who her true love really is....

After a lively discussion, we all sat down to a marvelous Chilean luncheon prepared by Marcia!

We enjoyed chicken and beef empanadas (lovely pastry folded over seasoned meats) with homemade salsa and guacamole...

Homemade beans...

And a lovely crisp salad...

And a delicious berry tart -- SOOOOOO yummy!

Excerpt from the book:

"Everyone is born with some special talent, and Eliza Sommers discovered early on that she had two: a good sense of smell and a good memory. She used the first to earn a living and the second to recall her life-if not in precise detail, at least with an astrologer's poetic vagueness. The things we forget may as well never have happened, but she had many memories, both real and illusory, and that was like living twice. She used to tell her faithful friend, the sage Tao Chi'en, that her memory was like the hold of the ship where they had come to know one another: vast and somber, bursting with boxes, barrels, and sacks in which all the events of her life were jammed. Awake it was difficult to find anything in that chaotic clutter, but asleep she could, just as Mama Fresia had taught her in the gentle nights of her childhood, when the contours of reality were as faint as a tracery of pale ink. She entered the place of her dreams along a much traveled path and returned treading very carefully in order not to shatter the tenuous visions against the harsh light of consciousness. She put as much store in that process as others put in numbers, and she so refined the art of remembering that she could see Miss Rose bent over the crate of Marseilles soap that was her first cradle.

"You cannot possibly remember that, Eliza. Newborns are like cats, they have no emotions and no memory," Miss Rose insisted the few times the subject arose.

Possible or not, that woman peering down at her, her topaz-colored dress, the loose strands from her bun stirring in the breeze were engraved in Eliza's mind, and she could never accept the other explanation of her origins.

"You have English blood, like us," Miss Rose assured Eliza when she was old enough to understand. "Only someone from the British colony would have thought to leave you in a basket on the doorstep of the British Import and Export Company, Limited. I am sure they knew how good-hearted my brother Jeremy is, and felt sure he would take you in. In those days I was longing to have a child, and you fell into my arms, sent by God to be brought up in the solid principles of the Protestant faith and the English language."

Scott, Sara and Baby to be San Diego Maternity and Newborn Photographer

2012-01-12T05:00:00.000-08:00

Meet Scott and Sara - and their soon to be little baby

They asked for my Maternity/Newborn Combination session - so we met first when Sara was about 8 months along....

To capture some amazing once-in-a-lifetime memories!

It was so wonderful to hear their plans for the little one...

We decided to capture this next portrait just so they could prove they were once hip and cool:

(What do you think?) :-P

Stay tuned in about a month to meet their newborn!

Take the first step in faith. You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.
Martin Luther King, Jr.

S Family: San Diego Beach and Park Portrait Photographer

2012-01-11T05:00:00.000-08:00

The S family were referred by another client - LOVE that!

We had a beautiful time enjoying the cove!

As a military family, they will soon be asked to move, but they wanted a set of gorgeous beach family portraits to take with them!

Best of luck wherever your travels take you!

Wherever you are is always the right place.
Julia Cameron

Things you'll need: Yourself and Sunshine

2012-01-10T05:00:00.001-08:00

Continuing along the line of my New Year's resolution health tips, I thought we'd chat about sunshine...
Vitamin D is also known as the "sunshine vitamin." because your body manufactures the vitamin after being exposed to sunshine.

I just found out that a lot of people have a low Vitamin D level so I thought I would share some research with you.

Kind of my own little public health announcement!

The benefits of Vitamin D:

Vitamin D is critical to the proper formation of the skeletal structure. Osteoporosis is strongly associated with low Vitamin D. Maintaining normal storage levels of Vitamin D in your body helps keep bones strong.

The lack of Vitamin D may contribute to chronic fatigue and depression:
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a mood disorder caused by the lack of light in winter, is a specific type of major depression.
So why are we running low on Vitamin D?

We're not spending as much time outdoors these days and when we do, most of us wear SUNSCREEN!

Studies have found that by blocking ultraviolet rays, sunscreen limits the vitamin D we produce.

No one is suggesting that people fry on a beach. But many scientists believe that "safe sun" — 15 minutes or so a few times a week without sunscreen — is not only possible but helpful to health.

A new proposal from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) could pave the
way to promote the health benefits of dietary supplements containing both vitamin D and
calcium.
Under the proposal, companies could tout the benefits of using supplements to ward
off osteoporosis, a dangerous disorder that severely weakens the bones. Health officials
now believe that adding more calcium - and vitamin D - to a person’s diet could better
protect the body’s internal framework and halt the onset of osteoporosis.

L Family Christmas Gala The Fun! San Diego, Bonsall Party and Event Photographer

2012-01-09T05:00:00.002-08:00

Today is part two of a beautiful Christmas party I was asked to capture.

I got to meet each guest as they arrived to capture their portrait.

(We later gave the guests the opportunity to download their portrait and choose a print to have mailed to their home for free! Great souvenir, don't you think?)

The party was in full swing - with happy people having an amazing time!

(Ahhh....I just adore young love!) :-)

The band was phenomenal!

And had everyone up and dancin'!

Even the little ones were dancing...

The food looked amazing and smelled heavenly....

This little guy was the hit of the party....!

...and was all over the dance floor! :P

For centuries men have kept an appointment with Christmas. Christmas means fellowship, feasting, giving and receiving, a time of good cheer, home. ~W.J. Ronald Tucker

L Family Christmas Gala The Details! San Diego, Bonsall Party and Event Photographer

2012-01-08T05:00:00.001-08:00

Just realized I forgot to share I beautiful Christmas party I was asked to photograph....and it was such an incredible event, I'm going to post it anyway...think of it as ideas for next year.

I arrived before the guests to capture some of the amazing details and decorations....

Amazingly beautiful decor, don't you think?

I also had a bit of time to capture some of the host's decorations for them too!

Okay, our details are perfect and the food is ready......(I think that is asparagus wrapped with some sort of tasty little meat....looked yummmy!

Tune in tomorrow for a bit more of a sneak peek!

Christmas is the season for kindling the fire of hospitality in the hall, the genial flame of charity in the heart. ~Washington Irving

The Power of Walking

2012-01-07T05:00:00.000-08:00

Looking for an easy way to help meet your New Year's Resolution?

May I suggest you add a walk to your schedule?

And trust me on this - walking with a friend or two makes your 'exercise' the highlight of the day!

(Thank you Wendy and Peanut for being my FABULOUS "Sole Sisters")

Walking requires the integrated use of our arms, legs and torso. Hundreds of calorie-burning muscles are utilized simply by walking.

Walking briskly on a daily basis not only results in calorie burning, it increases enzyme and metabolic activity that may result in increased calorie consumption for up to 12 hours after walking as little as 2 miles.

Plus you get to see BEAUTIFUL THINGS! :-)

One quick note as a supplement to my post about taking a photo a day and storing them on a special calendar on your smart phone. HERE.

If you don't have a smart phone, want to use a camera rather than your phone, or would like to post your Photo a day via your computer HERE is a website that looks great! And it's FREE.

And this blog also demonstrates one of MY new year's resolutions.....

This year, in an effort to reduce my 70 hour work weeks, I'm giving myself permission to post shorter blogs every now and then.

I think they will still bring a smile to your day!

Now that you know that walking can aid in improving all aspects of your well-being, it is time to get moving! Park at the opposite end of the parking lot and walk. Stop taking elevators and escalators, and start taking the stairs. If you need more vitality in your life, climbing a few stairs whenever possible will be a big step (literally) in the right direction. Also, if you ever have the opportunity to go for a walk or a hike in nature, you will be reaping even more benefit from the uneven terrain and chance to breathe fresh air, not to mention the benefits to your Physical, Mental, Emotional and Spiritual well-being.

Your #1 New Year's Resolution....?

2012-01-06T05:00:00.000-08:00

Read a news report about the top 5 new year's resolutions.

Lose Weight and Get Healthy was #1

So I thought I'd give you a suggestion in case that was your #1 resolution too.

Eat more fruit.

Low calorie, nutritious, yummy and beautiful to look at!

"Losing weight is ALWAYS the #1 resolution for millions of people, year after year. And the reason? Because it's really hard to do. Why not make it easier on yourself this year and enlist the help of your friends and even family to make the commitment to lose weight and get healthy together?" WBNQ News

Poinsettias: The Mexican Flame Leaf or The Christmas Star

2012-01-05T05:00:00.000-08:00

Did you know that each December the Botanical Gardens of Balboa Park are filled with Poinsettias?

And admission is always free, so I always try to pop over to see the beautiful plants.

They do a marvelous job displaying them too!

With lots of varieties and colors!

I hope you had a chance to visit them - if not, mark your calendar for next year!

Poinsettia Particulars:
The poinsettia is also known as the Mexican flame leaf or Christmas star.
The “flowers” are actually large bunches of colored leaves. In order to insure its festive coloring, it is essential that the plant received no light at night between October and Christmas. The slightest exposure to light during this critical period will often prevent “flowering.”
Poinsettias come in a variety of colors from red, salmon, and apricot to yellow, cream, and white. Red, of course, is the most popular.
Poinsettias account for one-third of sales of all flowering potted plants every year. More than 65 million were sold last year!
The poinsettia is actually a small tropical tree.
Poinsettias are native to southern Mexico and Central America, where they may reach heights of 16 feet with leaves measuring up to eight inches across!
The Aztecs used the poinsettia leaves to dye fabric for clothing and the sap for medicinal purposes.
The poinsettia is NOT toxic to humans or animals. This misconception was spread by a 1919 urban legend of a two-year-old dying after consuming a poinsettia leaf.

B Family Christmas Card Portraits at home

2012-01-04T05:00:00.001-08:00

Got a phone call from a friend asking if I had time to pop over for a few really quick family portraits...

Of course I always have time for a friend!

So we captured a portrait of each of her children and a couple of the family....

I think they will make a lovely Christmas card, don't you?

Rejoice with your family in the beautiful land of life! ~Albert Einstein

A New Year's Photography Resolution?

2012-01-03T05:00:00.000-08:00

Thought I might put a bug in your ear about setting a new year's resolution for photography.

I've been posting a daily photo blog for THREE YEARS without missing a day! [Yay Me!]
In fact, this is my 1155th post!

Insert me looking proud:

Let me tell you, it's been life changing and wonderful! (Okay, sometimes it's just WORK, but mostly it's rewarding...):P

So I'm challenging you to take a photo EACH and EVERY day!

Of course you can do this with your camera, but I thought I'd tell you about a great app for your smart phone called "Photo 365" HERE (I'm sure there are other ones that will do the same if you want to research it)

Since your cell phone is always with you, you'll have it on hand to snap a quick photo.

Then, your new handy dandy app will organize your photo into a calendar. Then you can look back to see what you were doing each day....

It will also interact with your facebook or flicker account so you can easily post it online too.

Doesn't that sound cool? Then months and years later, you can go back and just click on any ole individual day to see what you were doing....

(I just suggested to one of my newborn clients that they do this for the first year of their baby's life - what a treasure THAT would be!)

Imagine if you took a photo of your children each day??? It would be the ULTIMATE photo album!

What a way to record family fun and a child's growth!

THIS photographer captured her morning cup of coffee, which she enjoys in her garden, each day for a year.

Lots of fun ideas!

And you will be a better photographer by the end of the year - I guarantee it!

One suggestion I will give you is to set your camera or cell phone for the highest quality photos possible - someday you might want to print the whole year into a little book - so make sure they will be high resolution.

Here are a few more tips:

Bring Your Camera (CELL PHONE) Everywhere
Make Posting Easy
Vary Your Themes
Don’t Stop, No Matter What
Post often

Taking a photo a day is a big undertaking with big payoffs. Here are just a few reasons why you should consider doing it:

Imagine being able to look back at any day of your year and recall what you did, who you met, what you learned… (Often we find it hard to remember what we did just yesterday or even last night, let alone a whole year ago!)

Your year-long photo album will be an amazing way to document your travels and accomplishments, your haircuts and relationships. Time moves surprisingly fast.

Taking a photo a day will make you a better photographer. Using your camera every day will help you learn its limits. You will get better at composing your shots, you’ll start to care about lighting, and you’ll become more creative with your photography when you’re forced to come up with something new every single day.

A Family Stroll- the perfect way to celebrate New Year's Eve!

2012-01-02T05:00:00.000-08:00

Went on a little sunset hike with my two favorite people.

Climbed the hill ready for some amazing views!

(Red arrow indicates our vantage point)

Couldn't resist bringing my camera and tripod...

And capturing one of my most favorite Christmas decorations....

The entire city of Poway was visible from the mountain top!

And after I stitched together six separate photos, you can see Sabre Springs AND Poway!

After a day's walk everything has twice its usual value. ~George Macauley Trevelyan

Newborn Kelsey: San Diego Newborn Baby Photographer

2012-01-01T05:00:00.000-08:00

Thought it was appropriate to share a newborn portrait session with you on New Year's day!

Meet precious, amazing Kelsey and her incredibly beautiful family!

In addition to being the sweetest person you'd ever want to meet AND incredibly gorgeous, Kelsey's mom is Monica Dean, a TV News Anchor for the channel 7 news here in San Diego!

Mom brought along some precious little hats, hairbands and props.

AND Kelsey's big sister and big brother~!

Honestly have you EVER seen anything as sweet as this:

Oh, and dad. He came along too! :-)

Monica had seen one of my "Gift from God" ribbon and bow portraits in my website portfolio (have you looked through my portfolio lately? It has portrait samples and client testimonials and can be found HERE)

Mom brought along this beautiful box to add to the fun! (AND she gave me the box - so it's available for future newborns)

And speaking of feet....just one more:

Every man should be born again on the first day of January. Start with a fresh page.
Henry Ward Beecher

Happy New Year!

Capturing the memories -MY family style!

2011-12-31T05:00:00.000-08:00

Sometimes it might be handy having a family member who's a photographer....

(Like when I drove to take photos of my sister's vacation for her.... HERE)

Other times, things might get a little strange!

We did a 'normal' family portrait during our little Christmas Gala - but I'd had this idea and wanted to give it a try, so I pulled out my fisheye lens and kicked up the silly factor just a notch. :-)

'Course we capture a regular ole, sit on the couch portrait, but how much more fun is it when you tell everyone to hug?

My camera is always nearby....so I had it to capture the impromptu family dog-pile!
(And my sister was kind enough to add some fun and flare to the shot!)

Looking just a teeny bit squished, don't you think? lol

"Uncle Steve, wake up and play ball with me!"

Families are like fudge... mostly sweet with a few nuts.
-- Author Unknown
[I'll let each family member decide which they are...hee hee...I already know I'm a nut~!]

Happy New Year to all! I hope 2012 brings you a year of blessings!

Merry Christmas from the Barre Studio: Scripps Ranch, San Diego Corporate Portrait Photographer

2011-12-30T05:00:00.001-08:00

You might remember that I've been enjoying a ballet style exercise class, and that I did some photographic work for them last month. HERE

So I was really excited when I was asked to capture some portraits for their studio Christmas cards!

The owners and teachers gathered with their festive attire to make a few fun portraits!

Not only are these ladies talented they are so gorgeous!

I think everyone who receives their Christmas card will enjoy it!

"Christmas is a good time to send cards to those who are special. You’re one of the people I wanted to send a card. Merry Christmas to a very special person." Anonymous

Tea for Ten

2011-12-29T05:00:00.000-08:00

Each year I invite my close friends over for a quiet afternoon tea. Nothing too fancy- we don't do pinkies in the air while we hold our tea cups or anything like that. :P

I have my beautiful Christmas china that my mom gave me....and the wonderful Christmas teas by Celestial Seasonings (if you haven't tried these -RUN and get a box!)

(I love the Candy Cane Lane so much, I buy 6 boxes each December to last me the rest of the year!)

Of course you must serve cucumber sandwiches...

And cute little PB & J's...

And a delightful chicken salad with cranberries and pecans (YUM!)

And for dessert this year, Baked Alaska Cheesecake!

Christmas is a perfect time
To stop and reminisce
About the many hours we've spent
Discussing that and this-

The laughs, the smiles
That we have known
The wonderful things we've done
That make the friendship that we share
A very special one!

Have a very special Christmas, my friend

My Trip to Sweden.....NOT....(Around the World Potluck Club)

2011-12-28T05:00:00.000-08:00

So how did you celebrate St Lucia's Day?

What? You didn't? [gasp!]

Well, it was December 13th and my friends and I celebrated...

First let me give you a quick bit of history on this Swedish holiday: On this day, the eldest daughter in the family wears a white gown with a red sash and a crown of candles on her head. The candles symbolize the fire that refused to take St. Lucia's life when she was sentenced to be burned. She then delivers special buns to the family in their beds....

[...sounds a bit dangerous if you ask me...]

Only we didn't wake up in the morning and don robes and candles, instead we met for a really fun Swedish potluck dinner!

We started everything off with Lisa's amazing ham and Chive mini muffin appetizers...

It was Wendy's turn to bring the drinks, and after some research, she discovered that hard cider is a favorite drink in Sweden:

Then our lovely hostess, Shelly, brought out our main dish of Swedish meatballs -- DELISH!

She prepared a cream gravy and a meat gravy so we all had the chance to try both!

I brought a Swedish Cucumber Salad - which I thought was amazing, and will definitely serve again.

Recipe is HERE in case you want to give it a try! (I added a 1/2 teaspoon of salt though and suggest you do as well.)

Robin brought some very tasty baked potatoes...

And Betsy served a very yummy Almond Tart. Recipe HERE if you want to give it a try!

Swedish Cuisine: Historically, in the far North of Sweden, meats such as reindeer and other game dishes were eaten, fresh vegetables have played a larger role in the South. Many traditional dishes employ simple, contrasting flavours, such as the traditional dish of hearty meatballs gravy with tart, pungent lingonberry jam
On Christmas Eve, a large dinner or smorgasbord is served. Desserts include a rice pudding. An almond is hidden in the pudding. The person to find the almond is said to be the next to marry in the next year.

N Family: San Diego, Poway Portrait, Family and Child Photographer

2011-12-27T05:00:00.000-08:00

November and December are some of my busiest months. I have so much fun meeting new people and making new friends!

The N Family was interested in some gorgeous portraits for their Christmas card and to use as artwork for their home.

We had such a good time together - little Luke was having the time of his life!

Except for wearing a hat. He was DEFINITELY not in the mood to wear a hat!

Let me show you a fun little series.

First - the final portrait with his adorable hat and gorgeous sweater....

That was the final portrait, but I have to share what lead up to that.

We started by slipping the hat on and distracting him with some leaves...

But before the leaves had fallen, he was grabbing that hat....

And....

Throwing it as far as he could....! :-)
(I think every mom can relate to this!)

Luckily mom and I persevered and we came out with that beautiful HAT portrait!

Course we made quite a few other gorgeous portraits as well....

"Why do you always wear a hat?" " 'Cause it fits my head." (Robert Redford, in "The Horse Whisperer")

Sea World fun!

2011-12-26T05:00:00.001-08:00

Well if you are at Sea World, with a goal to take some fun photographs, I think you'd better start at the Shamu show.

I'm calling that series "The Progression of a Splash"

We met some other interesting characters as well...

Guests were invited to buy fish to throw to the sea lions....unfortunately for that little fellow, things weren't going quite as planned....

Fish throw!

BUT...

The sea lion's fish was caught in mid air by an egret!

Then Mr. Egret proceeded to sit down on the edge of the enclosure to gloat and wait for his next treat...geez!

Today's quote goes out specifically to Mr. Egret:

"You shall not steal” - Bible

Sea World's Christmas Celebration...and ELEVEN self portraits!

2011-12-25T05:00:00.001-08:00

First of all, I wish you a very Merry Christmas - and I hope you are enjoying a house full of fun today! (That's what I have planned...if my teenager would just get out of bed so we can start the festivities!)

Lucky for me I have an annual pass for Sea World. And even luckier for me, Wendy has one too!

So we grabbed our cameras and headed for a day of fun and photography!

BTW: There's a great deal going on right now at Sea World - before the end of the year, buy one day ticket and get all of 2012 FREE! If you have AAA, you can save more.

We found so many lovely, and UNIQUE Christmas decorations!

So unique that Santa's reindeer stopped by to check them out!

Also saw a cute "little" gift wrapped package walking about:

(That's Water Monitor Lizard by the way -- this one was about 6 feet long, but they can grow to almost 11 feet!)

We LOVED how the decorations were unique and colorful!

And some of the gifts were pretty cool too!

They had a 'Christmas Tree Lot' maze of pines for the kiddies to play in...

And look at this beautiful Kingfisher -- you might think I had to stalk him to get this lovely close up:

But NO! He was stalking me - during our entire lunch!

(I took that photo with my cell phone camera!)

And lastly, as promised, ELEVEN self portraits!

I love Christmas, not just because of the presents but because of all the decorations and lights and the warmth of the season. Ashley Tisdale

“And so I'm offering this simple phrase, To kids from one to ninety-two, Although its been said many times, many ways, A very Merry Christmas to you.”

Hugs and Blessings, Pam

Twas the Night before Christmas and not a creature was stirring....

2011-12-24T05:00:00.001-08:00

Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house
not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
in hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there.

The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
while visions of sugar plums danced in their heads.
And Mama in her 'kerchief, and I in my cap,
had just settled our brains for a long winter's nap

When out on the roof there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from my bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
tore open the shutter, and threw up the sash.

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow
gave the lustre of midday to objects below,
when, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
but a miniature sleigh and eight tiny reindeer

With a little old driver, so lively and quick,
I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick.
More rapid than eagles, his courses they came,
and he whistled and shouted and called them by name:

"Now Dasher! Now Dancer!
Now, Prancer and Vixen!
On, Comet! On, Cupid!
On, Donner and Blitzen!
To the top of the porch!
To the top of the wall!
Now dash away! Dash away!
Dash away all!"

As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly,
when they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky
so up to the house-top the courses they flew,
with the sleigh full of toys, and St. Nicholas too.

And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof
the prancing and pawing of each little hoof.
As I drew in my head and was turning around,
down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound.

He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot,
and his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot.
A bundle of toys he had flung on his back,
and he looked like a peddler just opening his pack.

His eyes--how they twinkled! His dimples, how merry!
His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!
His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,
and the beard on his chin was as white as the snow.
The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth,
and the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath.
He had a broad face and a little round belly,
that shook when he laughed, like a bowl full of jelly.

He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf,
and I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself.
A wink of his eye and a twist of his head
soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread.

He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,
and filled all the stockings, then turned with a jerk.
And laying his finger aside of his nose,
and giving a nod, up the chimney he rose.

He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle,
And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.
But I heard him exclaim, 'ere he drove out of sight,

"Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!"

(Recipe HERE)

A Christmas Tea: Women's Fellowship at Church

2011-12-23T05:00:00.000-08:00

Every year my church's preschool hosts a Christmas tea.

Ladies volunteer to bring in their china and decorations to design a beautiful table for their guests.

There were so many beautiful tables, of course I had to pull out my little point n shoot camera!

I'm always amazed at the creativity!

After a lovely tea (served by the men of our church) we then enjoyed a performance by the High School Choir and a lovely Christmas devotion. It's the PERFECT way to align your heart to the true meaning of Christmas!

Christmas is not just a time for festivity and merry making. It is more than that. It is a time for the contemplation of eternal things. The Christmas spirit is a spirit of giving and forgiving.--J. C. Penney

Christmas on top of the world... well, kinda

2011-12-22T05:00:00.001-08:00

Way up on the hill not far from my house is a spectacular Christmas tree! (If you've ever driven down Poway Road or Scripps Poway Parkway, I'm sure you've seen it.)

I had the pleasure of capturing the wedding of the tree's owners, Tom and Debbie a couple years ago.

Okay.

Let's talk facts:

The tree shines in the early morning and each night from December 1 to 12:01am on December 31st, when it's been known to flash Happy New Year to everyone. (Matt is the one who noticed the flashing, I'm always asleep by 10:00 on New Years!) :P

I also know that every year they change the colors, so we are always surprised on December 1st.

Seems like each year it gets a little bit taller....

I found out that this year's tree is 78 feet tall and has over 2,000 lights!

Thank you so much Tom and Debbie for this gift you give all of us!

As we were leaving to hike back down the hill toward home, I happened to notice the view to the east -- the moon was rising over Poway!

Christmas is not in tinsel and lights and outward show.
The secret lies in an inner glow.
It's lighting a fire inside the heart.
Good will and joy a vital part.
It's higher thought and a greater plan.
It's glorious dream in the soul of man.--Wilfred A. Peterson

The Wedding of Jessica and Carlin: Just a few more San Diego, Wine Country Temecula Winery Photographer

2011-12-21T05:00:00.002-08:00

Before we leave Jess and Carlin, I have just a few more portraits to share with you!

Like that beautiful cake and adorable little cake topper....and the bride and groom are looking pretty amazing too!

There's a bouquet toss to take care of...

Fun! And maybe the groom's favorite part of the reception.....

What a fun group of people - we had a great time meeting their wedding party and their guests.

And I always love to ask the couple if they'd like to tip-toe out of the reception for one final, quick portrait.

Congratulations Jess and Carlin!

There is no more lovely, friendly and charming relationship, communion or company than a good marriage.
- Martin Luther

The Wedding of Jessica and Carlin: The Reception San Diego, Wine Country Temecula Winery Photographer

2011-12-20T05:00:00.001-08:00

After being announced into their reception, they enjoyed their first dance as husband and wife.

Every moment of the reception finds my second photographer and I quietly and discretely walking around, observing, and capturing.

Some posed portraits:

And some quietly captured from a distance.

(Can I share that for EVERY wedding I've ever captured, the bride or Mother of the Bride has told me : "We never even knew that happened - thank YOU for noticing and capturing it on film forever!" That's what makes my job so much fun - I know I'm giving them a lifetime of memories!)

Because last time I checked a bride and groom couldn't be EVERYWHERE at once!

So, rest assured, that if you ask me to capture YOUR wedding, you can expect to see a whole-lotta things you didn't even know happened!

(The mom's presented the couple with their own wedding portraits in a gesture to welcome them into their families.)

You will find as you look back upon your life that the moments when you have truly lived are the moments when you have done things in the spirit of love.
- Henry Drummond

The Wedding of Jessica and Carlin: Beautiful Details San Diego, Wine Country Temecula Winery Photographer

2011-12-19T05:00:00.000-08:00

While the cocktail hour was in progress, my second photographer and I had time to zip into the ballroom to capture the details of the reception before the guests arrived.

And WOW! What a fabulous sight awaited them!

The Sweetheart table for the bride and groom featured lush flowers, and some special touches:

Their favor was original and yummy! A chocolate covered caramel apple! (So perfect for a fall wedding!)

And lastly, I just HAVE to show you a close up of their cake topper. It is an exact mini-replica of the couple!
Right down to the bride's beautiful sparkly belt and flower in her hair and the groom's tux and boutonniere!

So CUTE!

Two souls with but a single thought,
Two hearts that beats one.
- Freedrich Holm Joseph Von Munch

The Wedding of Jessica and Carlin: Portraits San Diego, Wine Country Temecula Winery Photographer

2011-12-18T05:00:00.004-08:00

Wilson Creek Winery is such a lovely place - so many gorgeous backdrops! We spent some time in the vineyards capturing a few memories.

Some romantic, and some just a wee bit fun!

And of course lots with the bridal party as well!

Also took advantage of that fabulous grand staircase for family portraits.

Love comforteth like sunshine after rain.

The Wedding of Jessica and Carlin: Sayin' I Do! San Diego, Wine Country Temecula Winery Photographer

2011-12-17T05:00:00.001-08:00

The scene is set, every little detail is perfect, the guests have arrived, the wedding party is gathering and the ceremony will begin in just a few minutes....

Gorgeous isn't it?

My second photographer stays with the bride while I wait with the guests at the front of the aisle...how can you fully capture the story of a wedding without a second photographer? (I sure don't know the answer to that!)

Jess's dad and step dad would both walk her down the aisle...and Wendy caught those last few minutes so beautifully, don't you think?

Then at last it was time to begins that walk into a brand new life!

Such a smile....ahhh...!

I love it when a venue has a balcony nearby! What a view from above - and we lucked out with a full moon!

Their ceremony featured a beautiful little moment where they combined two glasses of wine into one, and then shared that glass -- so symbolic and beautiful!

It was a lovely, emotional and amazing ceremony...

And then they were husband and wife! Cue the music....!

In marriage, everyday you love,
and everyday you forgive.
It is an ongoing sacrament, love and forgiveness
- Bill Moyers

The Wedding of Jessica and Carlin: The First Look San Diego, Wine Country Temecula Winery Photographer

2011-12-16T05:00:00.003-08:00

With a quick look back, Jessica began her first steps toward her groom...

We'd made a little plan beforehand that Carlin wouldn't turn around until Jessica was behind him....
I'm sure the anticipation was killing him!

I just LOVE, LOVE Jess's expression in this next one - doesn't it just speak volumes?

And how about this one, captured by my FABULOUS second photographer, Wendy at that exact same moment:

Jessica and Carlin chose a first look mainly because they wanted their portraits before the ceremony while we still had some daylight. But what a great way to really capture just the bride and groom's first looks, emotions and love -- without the crowd looking on!

How do I love thee?
Let me count the ways.
- Elizabeth Barrett Brownin

The Wedding of Jessica and Carlin: The Groom San Diego, Wine Country Temecula Winery Photographer

2011-12-15T05:00:00.000-08:00

Our handsome groom was jotting down his wedding vows when we walked into the Groom's Suite.

(And just a note, he had already had them written on his phone - he was just copying them to paper...so rest easy, it wasn't a last minute thing...) :-P

When he was all ready...

It was time for him to take his position at the bottom of the gorgeous staircase because Jessica and Carlin chose to have a first look --

They chose to see each other before the ceremony.

So we could capture that precious moment of seeing each other for the first time.

So ROMANTIC!

Details and portraits about that tomorrow.

Where there is love there is life.
- Mahatma Gandhi

The Wedding of Jessica and Carlin: The Bride San Diego, Wine Country Temecula Winery Photographer

2011-12-14T05:00:00.000-08:00

The bridal suite at the winery is beautiful and Jessica and her bridesmaids had that amazing space for the whole day!

Did I mention the wedding would be an after dark, outdoor candle light ceremony? Well now you know.

After the button up and a few more little touches....

She was ready to go....

You give but little when you give of your possessions.
It is when you give of yourself that you truly give.
- Kahlil Gibran

The Wedding of Jessica and Carlin: Getting Ready! San Diego, Wine Country Temecula Winery Photographer

2011-12-13T05:00:00.000-08:00

Jessica and Carlin were married on 11-11-11 (pretty memorable date, don't you think?)

Note to blog readers: Of course Jessica and Carlin were enjoying their entire wedding portrait gallery about a week after the wedding, but I've been saving them to share with you.

I like to spread out my wedding posts to once a month....I just didn't want you to think I've been making them wait this long to see their portraits...gasp!

Their wedding and reception were at The Wilson Creek Winery in beautiful Wine Country Temecula.

She had some amazingly beautiful flowers and her dress and shoes were incredible!

There is no such cozy combination as man and wife. ~Menander

Nita and Jody: Christmas Portraits San Diego Outdoor Dog, Pet Family Photographer

2011-12-12T05:00:00.001-08:00

Got an email from one of my most favorite couples (remember their amazing wedding in August?)

To see my 7 posts about their wedding, click HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE and HERE
Or maybe you want to see their incredible engagement session? HERE?

Sorry - I'm back on track now... I promise to stop reminiscing and get back to the Christmas Portraits.

Well ANYWAY, they asked me to capture some family portraits for their Christmas card...

So they gathered up the "kids" (Toby and MacKenzie,) dressed them in their fancy white and red jingly Christmas collars and then we hit the trail!

I have a super secret PERFECT nature location that I only offer to special clients.

*Okay...ALL my clients are special, so you can have your portraits in this perfect secret spot too!)

**And one other secret thing that's really great about my super secret spot is that it's only a 3 minute walk from the car...!

We had so much fun! (Just checking, but are you smiling right now? Cuz just looking at this happy family makes ME smile!)

And I have to share two portraits that REALLY make me smile.

After I captured that close up of the doggies, I think I must have reminded Toby that he wasn't smiling big enough....because in the photo I snapped 5 seconds later....

He was smiling! Yay! (No photoshop, I promise! That's just pure Toby-happiness!)

Just call me the Dog Smile Whisperer....!

Nita and Jody -- I love you guys and I'm looking forward to years and years more family portraits and fun times!

A person who has never owned a dog [or met Jody and Nita] has missed a wonderful part of life.

Bob Barker

My Favorite Park...in the Dark!

2011-12-11T05:00:00.000-08:00

Which is my favorite park....?

Balboa Park of course!

We were there after dark - and were amazed at how beautifully everything was lit up!

(Right down to the designs projected on the Museum of Art~!)

Thought you might want to guess why I was there:

So let me give you a few clues....push the buzzer when you've guessed so we know who figured it out first.

How 'bout now?

Okay - here's the give away clue!

Wendy, Betsy and I enjoyed a ladies night out to see How the Grinch Stole Christmas at the Old Globe!

Remember when I told you my client had the part of Cindy Lou Who?

(Click HERE if you don't remember)

Of course there's no photography in the theatre. These photos are borrowed from the Globe's website and I will put them back as soon as you take a look at them!

How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (1966)

Narrator: As the Grinch took the tree, as he started to shove, he heard a small sound like the coo of a dove. He turned around fast, and he saw a small Who. Little Cindy Lou Who, who was no more than two. She stared at the Grinch and said...

Cindy Lou Who: Santie Claus, why? Why are you taking our Christmas tree? Why?

Narrator: But do you know, that old Grinch was so smart and so slick, that he thought up a lie and he thought it up quick.

Grinch: Why my sweet little tot...

Narrator: The fake Santie Claus lied...

Grinch: ...there's a light on this tree that won't light on one side. So I'm taking it home to my workshop, my dear. I'll fix it up there, then I'll bring it back here.

Narrator: And his fib fooled the child. Then he patted her head, he got her a drink, and he sent her to bed. And when Cindy Lou Who was in bed with her cup, he crupt to the chimney and stuffed the tree up. Then he went up the chimney himself, the old liar, and the last thing he took was the log for their fire. On their walls, he left nothing but hooks and some wire. And the one speck of food that he left in the house was a crumb that was even too small for a mouse.

Melissa: Class of 2012 San Diego, La Jolla High School Senior Photographer

2011-12-10T05:00:00.000-08:00

Had the pleasure to volunteer with Melissa's mom for the past few years - Melissa is a band-o along side Matt.

So I really enjoyed getting back together with them to capture Melissa's senior portraits!

Isn't she gorgeous?

And smart, and fun and a joy to be around!

She brought some fun outfits and props too.

I love giving my seniors a wide variety of looks to choose from when I present their portrait gallery to them.

Best wishes to you Melissa - I know you will be a success in everything you do!

And a fun portrait to end the night:

“Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.” Maya Angelou

The Perfect December Brunch

2011-12-09T05:00:00.000-08:00

An incredibly sweet and amazing friend (who also happens to be the Director of Children's Ministry from my church) invited us board members to a lovely Christmas brunch.

She had the most lovely table setting designed for us.....so I just HAD to pull out my point n shoot camera.
(Yep. Never leave home without my little camera. And you wouldn't either if you had to post a photo blog EVERY DAY like I do!) :-)

So I snapped a few photos of her beautiful table.

And then I just couldn't resist keeping my camera out for a just few more minutes.

Because look how darn cute our little glasses were, I mean seriously, just adding a slice of lime and some cranberries made it so beautiful!

But let me give you the entire drink 'recipe' so you can wow your guests too.

Start with that pretty presentation.

Then add a few inches of Cranberry Pomegranate Juice...

Then some 7-Up to add some sparkle!

Makes you feel festive just looking at it, doesn't it? And it tasted as good as it looked! SOOOOOO delicious!

Speaking of delicious:

Our brunch featured a lovely fruit salad and a delicious egg casserole....which featured egg, sausage and biscuits baked right in....pretty much TO DIE FOR! (Of course she also made a lovely white gravy to pour over!)

That, along with potatoes and some amazing marbled sweet bread - what an amazing meal.

We enjoyed every minute surrounded by yummy food, beautiful things and amazing friends.

Thank you again, Roseanna for a great way to start my Christmas season!

And to my readers, here's wishing you some wonderful times with your sweet friends as well.

“There's more, much more, to Christmas Than candlelight and cheer; It's the spirit of sweet friendship That brightens all year. It's thoughtfulness and kindness, It's hope reborn again, For peace, for understanding, And for goodwill to men!”

H Family: San Diego Ramona Family Photographer

2011-12-08T05:00:00.000-08:00

Meet the H Family!

Mandy, their mom, had a vision for her family portrait session this year - she wanted a farm/country sort of feel to it....

So we put our thinking caps on, did a little investigation and came up with the perfect little cornfield!

She had a few pose ideas in mind (Like that amazing balloon portrait!)

I added in a few more poses as well, and we came up with an amazing session!

Here's one more "prop" idea Mandy thought of:

(Too clever!)

I LOVE the idea of a stylized portrait session, don't you?

....whatever you imagine...we can create it!

So where do YOU imagine the perfect portrait session???

BTW: Mandy's already thinking about next year's family portrait -- Mandy, I can't wait!

“Creativity is inventing, experimenting, growing, taking risks, breaking rules, making mistakes, and having fun.” — Mary Lou Cook

iHope: Just a few more.... San Diego Theatre and Actor Photographer

2011-12-07T05:00:00.000-08:00

I captured about 300 portraits for the actors and their families to download for free...

So I just had to share a few more of my favorites with you!

The play tells the story of a TV show crew looking to find talent for their Christmas show and of course they discover the true meaning of Christmas along the way....

Along the way there is some beautiful music...

And some amazing choreography...

And a whole lotta talented kids!

Well done, actors and crew! Thank you for this gift!

Christmas is a necessity. There has to be at least one day of the year to remind us that we're here for something else besides ourselves. ~Eric Sevareid

iHope: San Diego Theatre and Actor Photographer

2011-12-06T05:00:00.000-08:00

Well, now that you've met some of the cast, (see yesterday, if you missed that) it's time to start the show!

The show involves the "production" of a Holiday TV Show.

As they plan the TV Show, the kids go in search of what Christmas really is...

These portraits were captured during the final dress rehearsal - so I was able to walk everywhere I wanted....

Even right up on the stage!

I think it's fun to capture some images that the audience absolutely can't! This Santa has his back to the audience, as he directs a singing group...

I think that spotlight adds a fun little touch!

The kids have been working since August on this production -- what an amazing gift to our community!

"C-MENT (Christian Musical Enrichment Theater) is the youth drama ministry of Peñasquitos Lutheran Church. Each year C-MENT typically presents two productions (Christmas and Summer seasons) for age groups between 2nd-12th grade. You do not need to be a member of the church for your child to participate, nor is previous experience required! Everyone who auditions is invited to be in the cast and is sure to have a great time! Even non-actors can learn behind-the-scenes skills in technical production, such as sound, lighting, set design and costuming." CMENT Mission Statement

CMENT: Actor Head Shot and Portfolio Photographer

2011-12-05T05:00:00.000-08:00

You KNOW how much I love the theatre and MY CHURCH, so of course I jump at the chance to volunteer to be the official photographer for our theatre productions.

Our church has a ministry called "Christian Musical Enrichment Theatre" (CMENT)

These two ladies have been directing two plays a year for almost 20 years! (So talented and SO dedicated!)

I have the pleasure of capturing the cast head shots (individual and groups) for display in the lobby...

As well as photographs from the performance for the kids and families to download for free.

(Tune in tomorrow to see the production!)

"Movies will make you famous; Television will make you rich; But theatre will make you good." Terrence Mann

Those little nimble musicians of the air....

2011-12-04T05:00:00.000-08:00

1

A bird does not sing because it has an answer. It sings because it has a song. Chinese Proverb

God loved the birds and invented trees. Man loved the birds and invented cages.

Birds sing after a storm; why shouldn't people feel as free to delight in whatever sunlight remains to them? Rose Kennedy

I realized that If I had to choose, I would rather have birds than airplanes. Charles Lindberg

No bird soars too high if he soars with his own wings. William Blake

Capturing a memory: of any size

2011-12-03T05:00:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite people, suggested he might like a portrait of his car.

So while we were in the desert over Thanksgiving break, we found a deserted road, and a beautiful sunset and started capturing some memories!

I even enticed my favorite person to pose for one quick portrait as well.

Couldn't resist getting a little bit crazy with the editing too.......

"Germans make nice cars."
Jason Behr

M Family San Diego Poway Family On Location Photographer

2011-12-02T05:00:00.000-08:00

This time of year, I'm REALLY busy capturing memories.

But since I devote a full hour to each client, we have time to relax, chat and get to know each other.

And that's the part I really love! Each client becomes a friend!

Had so much fun with the M Family! Their two little ones were such sweetie pies too!

9 months old and always on the move!

What a fun job I have!

"Savor the moments that are warm and special and giggly."
Author: Sammy Davis Jr.

News Alert! Autumn does exist in San Diego!

2011-12-01T05:00:00.000-08:00

Wendy and I set off for a little hike around Lake Poway......

The hike from the parking lot started off rather ho-hum....

But then we rounded a corner and spotted this glorious little grove of autumn!

Breathtaking isn't it? Especially with that soft mist over the lake?

Well, let me tell you we dropped everything and pulled out our cell phone cameras and started snapping away!

**Remember what I've always told you: your cell phone camera is your BEST CAMERA because it's ALWAYS with you!

Wow! And when we reached the other side of the lake we looked across and found a beautiful reflection of those glorious autumn colors!

We felt like we'd just stepped into New England!

...um...except for the fact that we were wearing t-shirts instead of parkas...

BTW: If you look closely at that photo, you will see a REALLY big fish, swimming by close to the shore...

Fiery colors begin their yearly conquest of the hills, propelled by the autumn winds. Fall is the artist.
Takayuki Ikkaku

Finally! Daddy's Homecoming: San Diego, Coronado North Island Naval Base

2011-11-30T05:00:00.001-08:00

If you tuned in yesterday, you know we're at the North Island Naval base patiently waiting for daddy.

You might also have noticed that it was DARK when his plane landed and now it is DAY.

Why has two hours just passed? Because customs wouldn't let anyone off the plane until an inspector drives to the airport and signs a paper.

Seriously, HOURS waiting for one signature!

I'll tell you, we all cheered when the customs car drove onto the base.

Then finally it was time to meet daddy!

And one of the airport employees, who now felt like he was our good friend after two hours of being with us, offered us a ride out to the airplane....

What a sweet, sweet reunion!

And at last, the family is back together after their 4th deployment!

Well said car window....well said!

F= forever with his family
A= always there for you no matter what
T= the only one who's there
H= he's my hero till the end
E= encouraging in everything i do
R= really the only one...no one can beat him he's the best!!!

Daddy's Homecoming: San Diego, Coronado North Island Naval Base

2011-11-29T05:00:00.001-08:00

Hurray! Today is the day daddy arrives home!

We met outside the gates of North Island Naval Base since I didn't have gate authorization -so I jumped in their car and rode along!

We got to the airport EARLY....( I left home at 4:00am!)

Then daddy's plane arrived right on time -- If you look closely you can see it in the distance...

Everyone was so excited!

But then we noticed no one was getting off the plane....tune in tomorrow and I'll fill you in...

Blessed indeed is the man who hears many gentle voices call him father! ~Lydia M. Child

The Wedding Album for Megan and Shane: San Diego Wedding Album Designer

2011-11-28T05:00:00.012-08:00

Well, since you've gotten to know Megan and Shane for the past few days, I thought you'd like to see their wedding album.

A wedding album is included with all my wedding collections....because what's the point of photographs if they aren't out and ready to be enjoyed?

Seriously, WHAT?

We have their Wedding Photo Video Show to share with online friends (Click HERE if you'd like to enjoy that)

So what will she have to hold and look at in real life? AN ALBUM!

Megan chose her favorite black and white portrait as her cover. Isn't that striking?

The album tells the story of the day, from the first minutes of Megan getting ready all the way through to the end of the reception....

The album features sturdy, high quality photographic paper and an invisible center binding - so none of your beautiful photographs are lost to the binding!

Generally, I start designing a couple's wedding album about two weeks after their wedding.

When the rough draft is ready, I invite them to my office to review it page by page, photo by photo so the bride and groom to make any changes they want.

So we end up with their own personal, PERFECT wedding day story!

Including that crazy cake cutting.....! (See yesterday's blog entry if you missed that)

Best wishes to you, Megan and Shane -- thank you so much for asking me to capture your precious memories!

(And you know my number when you are ready for maternity portraits....hee hee)

"Memories hide in every corner of my house, and I take delight every time I stumble across one."
Author: unknown

The Wedding of Megan and Shane: It's a piece of cake! San Diego, Lake San Marcos Military Wedding Photographer

2011-11-27T05:00:00.002-08:00

Before we bid farewell to Megan and Shane's wedding, you have to see the cake cutting! Of course they used Shane's sabre for an amazing touch...

It started out simple and sweet....

But

Then

Things went a little crazy....

How much fun is that?

Of course a kiss to make up!

You're nothing short of my everything. Ralph Block

The Wedding of Megan and Shane: The Reception San Diego, Lake San Marcos Military Wedding Photographer

2011-11-26T05:00:00.001-08:00

Just what that beautiful reception needed: beautiful people to fill it up!

The couple enjoyed their first dance right away...

Then some fun toasts....

And I love it when a bride and groom agree to sneak out for a quick sunset portrait.....and it makes for a beautiful last page of their wedding album!

Like music on the waters is thy sweet voice to me. Lord Byron

The Wedding of Megan and Shane: It's the little things..... San Diego, Lake San Marcos Military Wedding Photographer

2011-11-25T05:00:00.000-08:00

Luckily we had a chance to zip into the ball room to capture a few portraits of the beautiful reception before the guests enter....

Such an amazing color scheme - gorgeous!

And the cake was a fun combination of a cake and cupcakes.

Megan's mom made her delicious sugared almonds for the guest favors....

They look good, don't they?

Everything is perfect! Bring on the guests!

Love is that condition in which the happiness of another person is essential to your own. Robert Heinlein

The Wedding of Megan and Shane: Portraits San Diego, Lake San Marcos Military Wedding Photographer

2011-11-24T05:00:00.001-08:00

While the guests zipped off to cocktail hour, the bridal party and the family enjoyed the opportunity for some formal portraits.

(Don't you think a wedding needs a combination of both formal and candid portraits? I sure do!)

They were a fun loving group, obviously having a great time! The bride and groom ordered drinks to be served to the wedding party -- how fun is that?

Have to tell you a funny little story about that family portrait.

The little flower girl didn't want to be in any portraits. She was DONE... if you know what I mean.

So I said to her, "Did I tell you I have a treasure box?"

She said, "Really? If I smile can I see it?"

Me: "YEP!"

So we captured the next portrait about 20 seconds later! What a difference~! :-)

(And YES I do always carry a treasure box with me....you just never know....)

After about 10 minutes of group portraits, we sent the family and bridal party in to enjoy cocktail hour....

Megan and Shane wanted to spend a few minutes capturing some romantic portraits of just the two of them....

But to see her was to love her, love but her, and love her forever. Robert Burns

The Wedding of Megan and Shane: Sayin' I do! San Diego, Lake San Marcos Military Wedding Photographer

2011-11-23T05:00:00.001-08:00

Finally time to make that beautiful walk down the aisle. Speaking of beautiful - the garden setting was incredible and the flowers amazing!

What a beautiful bride!

I think the groom is thinking, "Oh ya....she's mine..." What do you think?

Ahhh........so sweet!

Then it's time for the kiss and....

Then:
Time for the Arch of the Sabers. The passage under the swords is meant to ensure the couple's safe transition into their new life together.

Did you know only commissioned officers can carry sabers and participate in this ceremony?

It's also part of the sword tradition for the best man to give the bride a little swat on her way through the arch...

So cue the swat:

And then cue the pain: (The bride told me later that he gave her quite the stinging little swat!)

This is a Marine Corps tradition,

and is supposed to say, "Welcome to the Corps, Ma'am."

And I LOVE it when a bride and groom stop for a kiss at the end of the aisle!

I love thee to the depth and breadth and height my soul can reach. Elizabeth Barrett Browning

The Wedding of Megan and Shane: Meet The Groom! San Diego, Lake San Marcos Military Wedding Photographer

2011-11-22T05:00:00.004-08:00

Our groom is active military, just got home from deployment about a month before the wedding.

And did you notice all those honors? Including a purple heart?

Brave as well as handsome - that's a good combination!

A lot of his groomsmen were Marines as well....

They were such a fun group of guys - every minute of this wedding was a blast!

The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart. Helen Keller

The Wedding of Megan and Shane: The Bride! San Diego, Lake San Marcos Military Wedding Photographer

2011-11-21T05:00:00.000-08:00

Have to share some beautiful portraits of the bride and her family. (Gorgeous location isn't it?)

This next portrait was captured by Wendy, my second photographer, just minutes before Megan was ready to walk down the aisle. LOVE IT!

A quick peak - and she's already to go!

Love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies. Aristotle

The Wedding of Megan and Shane: Getting Ready! San Diego, Lake San Marcos Military Wedding Photographer

2011-11-20T05:00:00.001-08:00

I'm so in LOVE with that portrait! Hope that gives you a clue as to what to expect!
An amazing military wedding!

Our bride Megan's dress was incredible- covered with lace and beading....

Megan and Shane were married at the Lake San Marcos Resort. When we arrived at her lake front hotel room to capture the bride getting dressed, we found that life preserver sitting on the table. The brides maids giggled about it, indicating it was part of an inside joke that had something to do with a midnight houseboat ride by the groomsmen....so I couldn't resist including it in a portrait.

(I think as a story teller I need to gather all the elements that might bring a smile to the bride and groom in the years to come!)

That portrait probably wouldn't be included in their album, but since all my brides and grooms are given a DVD with ALL their wedding portraits, it will still be appreciated!

Megan made a custom garter using one of Shane's uniforms -- isn't that sweet? (Cell is his last name)

In dreams and in love there are no impossibilities. Janos Aregy

Christmas Cards!

2011-11-19T05:00:00.000-08:00

I love sending and receiving Christmas cards - don't you?

I'll tell you a little tradition we have - when a Christmas card arrives, we don't open it until dinner.
Then we read it aloud together as a family and mention that family in our blessing as well!
So we really appreciate each and every card we receive!

In case you haven't decided on your cards yet, I thought I would share my new storefront at Tiny Prints Cards.

Click HERE

The cards at Tiny Prints are so original - some that turn into ornaments and some tri-folds that include your entire Christmas letter all typed up beautifully....

All of them are definitely out of the ordinary!

Tiny Prints also lets you make just one custom card (like maybe for Grandpa's birthday?)

Just choose your card, upload your photo(s) and they will address it, stamp it, put your return address on the envelope and mail it for you! (For about the same price as a Hallmark card!)

They will also put a gift card in it for you if you need a quick gift! Talk about having a personal assistant!

They also have non-photo cards....like maybe a funny get well card?

Of course their High School Senior Graduation Announcements are beautiful and classy:

Have to show you a card I ordered for the grandfolks for Halloween:
(Photo taken by pop-pop)

Charlie Brown: [Yells into mailbox] Hello in there.

Charlie Brown: Rats. Nobody sent me a Christmas card today. I almost wish there weren't a holiday season. I know nobody likes me. Why do we have to have a holiday season to emphasize it?

*************

Charlie Brown: Thanks for the Christmas card you sent me, Violet.

Violet: I didn't send you a Christmas card, Charlie Brown.

Charlie Brown: Don't you know sarcasm when you hear it?

Arepas Con Pollo

2011-11-18T05:00:00.002-08:00

My visit to Colombia required a new recipe!

Since it was my turn to bring an appetizer, I did a little research and found a fun and yummy looking recipe called:

Arepas with Chicken and Avocado.

It starts with masa flour -- we need to mix up our own batch of mini tortillas.

The recipe divides into 20 little balls so it's easy to get the size right...

Each little ball goes in between two pieces of plastic....

Then tap it with the bottom of a pot and....

Ta DAAAAA...... a perfect little circle of yumminess!

Then fry them in a skillet - about 5 minutes per side until they are a little crispy on the outside.

And then top with a chicken and avocado salad mixture....!

After I took this next photo, I decided it needed a little color, so I added a tiny little dollop of salsa. (Scroll down to see yesterday's blog for othe finished product!)

Click here to email me if you want the recipe

The discovery of a new dish does more for the happiness of mankind than the discovery of a star.
Anthelme Brillat-Savarin

My Trip to Columbia

2011-11-17T05:00:00.001-08:00

Well, pack your bags, I'm taking you to Columbia with me!

Well, not REALLY Columbia....just to my Around the World Potluck featuring foods of Columbia!

We started off with my appetizer, Arepas con pollo.
(More details on how to make them tomorrow.)

Jan brought wine from South America....

And Lisa brought a yummy bean and corn side dish ! (And so colorful and beautiful, don't you think?)

Betsy brought Columbian Coleslaw which was amazing - it includes the juice and rind of a lime which made it so fresh and delicious!

Wendy brought an amazing plantain side dish - she drizzled them with honey and then baked. Very good - and our first time tasting a plantain!

Diane's Salmon con salsa de camarones - was just plain AMAZING!

And the perfect ending was Jan's Dulce de Leche brownies and ice cream.

Luckily Diane prepared a demonstration of a Columbian Cumbia dance because we needed a bit of exercise after that....~!

Savory seasonings stimulate the appetite.
Latin Proverb

Counting our blessings

2011-11-16T05:00:00.000-08:00

A few times a year, those of us on the Board of Children's Ministry at church treat our local elementary school teachers to lunch.

Just a little way to make sure they know we appreciate them!

So today, we filled their teacher's lounge with crockpots full of soup, warm homemade bread and muffins!

We shared Chicken Noodle Soup, Taco Soup....

Cream of Broccoli Soup...

Vegetable Beef Soup...

Corn Chowder....

And Italian Sausage Tortellini...

Let me tell you it smelled heavenly in there!

And of course, a lovely thought and a yummy dessert!

You're UNdeniably Lutheran When... ...
.potluck dinners are your favorite indoor sport. ....
you carry silverware in your pocket to church just in case there's a potluck. ....
all of your casserole dishes have your name on the bottom. ...
.you can't have a meeting without having a meal. ....
you make your hot dishes with cream of mushroom soup and your salads with Jell-O. ....
you believe can't get into heaven without a casserole

Ladies Night Out at Xtend Barre: San Diego Poway Event and Party Photographer

2011-11-15T05:00:00.000-08:00

First of all, have to tell you Wendy and I have found a new exercise class that we are enjoying...

Barre (Think ballet barre: sort of a combo of pilates and dance, but easy for non dancers.) More info HERE

Kinda like this...except in our class we don't match: (not my photo)

Well, anyway.

I noticed the studio was having a Ladies Night Out for their clients.

So I volunteered my services to capture the event!

So many wonderful and friendly ladies attended!

They were given gift bags filled with lots of goodies....

And were pampered by local businesses (for free!)

And did I mention refreshments?

...yummy things to sample....

And lots of friends to visit with!

And of course some shopping!

While I was there, I also captured individual and group portraits for free - hopefully it was a fun and easy way to have a new facebook profile pic?

Or maybe just a way to remember a fun night with friends!

Go girl, seek happy nights to happy days.
William Shakespeare

Caitlin - the newest little Who down in WhoVille! San Diego Actor Cast Photo and Head Shot Portfolio Photographer

2011-11-14T05:00:00.000-08:00

Got a call from one of my favorite little actresses, Caitlin.

Seems she got a HUGE part - she will be Cindy Lou Who at the Old Globe Theater!

Well, of course she needed a current head shot for the cast board....

So we got together in my home studio to capture some memories!

(Isn't she just the cutest?)

And I just have to show you one from the Old Globe's official publicist (hopefully they won't mind me sharing it)

Here' she's with the actor who will play the Grinch!

Stay tuned for hopefully more pics - we've planned a road trip to go see the show!

Ticket info HERE

Cindy Lou Who: Santa?
The Grinch (dressed as Santa): WHAT?
Cindy Lou Who: Don't forget the Grinch. I know he's mean and hairy and smelly. His hands might be cold and clammy, but I think he's actually kinda... sweet.
The Grinch: SWEET? You think he's sweet?
Cindy Lou Who: [nods] Merry Christmas, Santa.
[goes upstairs]
The Grinch: Nice kid... baaad judge of character.

Dude, That's RUDE!

2011-11-13T05:00:00.003-08:00

Every couple of months I help out at our church's Edge night.

It's a Friday night party for 5th and 6th graders to come and have fun.

We encourage them to bring a friend who is new to church....a party is a terrific and low key way to introduce ourselves!

Of course it's a party with a PURPOSE though.

The most recent theme was "Dude That's Rude!"

After some game playing, the kids enjoyed a little skit of a family dinner- where they were asked to call out if they noticed something rude..

And, let me tell you...the "teenager" (in the middle) demonstrated a whole-lotta rudeness!

(And good for our kids, they noticed every blunder...so yes there's hope!) :P

For snack time, the kids were taught table manners and how to eat soup without slurping!

Then we learned what the Bible has to say about it....

And then it was craft time.

That's MY department!~

I planned for the kids to make thank you cards....

I put out lots of materials, and stamps,etc and let them create!

We talked about how important it was to say thank you. Each kiddo created a couple thank you cards to have on hand for the next time they needed to say those all important two words!

The lesson really hit home for this little guy -- he made a card for the friend who invited him to Edge night! Sweet!

And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them. Luke 6:31

Kids on the Block

2011-11-12T05:00:00.000-08:00

I had the honor of attending an amazing school assembly. It was a puppet show with a message! The show was presented to a room full of elementary kids by Kids on the Block.

The puppet style is called Bunraku (a Japanese style where the puppeteers are dressed in black and stand behind the puppets with one hand in the puppet and the other manipulating rods to the puppet's arms.)

Kids on the Block is one of the charities I support because their purpose is to share disabilities, educational differences, medical differences and social concerns with kids in a fun way.

Today's program started off with a little skit about Bullying. The kids in the audience helped the puppets find a solution to their problem!

Then we met Mark who has Cerebral Palsy-- he told the kids all about why he's special and why they can act normally around him.

The kids were SO attentive and interested in what they were learning! (When you have the full attention of hundreds of itty bitty kids you know you're doing something right!)

The puppeteers are all volunteers who give their time to rehearse and perform at schools all over Southern California.

I'm so thankful for these amazing and talented people and for this amazing charity!

If you want more information, their website is HERE

The Kids on the Block, Inc. originated in 1977 in direct response to US Public Law 94-142, which required that children with disabilities be educated in the least restrictive environment. For many children, this meant being included in a classroom with their non-disabled peers.

Mark Riley, who represents a child with cerebral palsy, was the first puppet character created to fill the need of children with disabilities to have their non-disabled peers understand and accept them. Through Mark Riley, the children learned about cerebral palsy and began asking questions directly to Mark. The Kids on the Block, Inc. was launched because of this enthusiastic response from the children.

Now internationally acclaimed, Kids on the Block has continued to grow over the years and offers programs on disabilities such as spina bifida and visual impairment, medical differences such as childhood cancer and HIV/AIDS; educational differences including learning disabilities and ADHD, and social concerns including sexual abuse prevention, and alternatives to violence.

Gorgeous Kaitlyn: Class of 2012 San Diego Poway High School Senior Portrait Photographer

2011-11-11T05:00:00.000-08:00

Meet gorgeous Kaitlyn!

She wanted senior portraits that reflected who she is...

And we had such a lovely time!

She is smart, funny and so sweet - it was such a pleasure chatting with her in between portraits and outfit changes.

I send all my clients a little guide on how to look your best in portraits - I want to give them some tips as they head for the stressful time of [insert creepy music here] "Oh NO, What Should We Wear??"

What a fun variety of portraits, don't you think? Kaitlyn was such a wonderful model - I had to stop her to ask if she's a professional! (she's not by the way, but she ought to be!)

Taking joy in living is a woman's best cosmetic. ~Rosalind Russell

More Stamping Fun - the projects

2011-11-10T05:00:00.000-08:00

I have a few more projects from my day of Stamping that I want to show you.

These were created by our teachers as door prizes!

Wouldn't you love to wear that pin?

And this was such a sweet little Christmas tree created out of flowers punched from paper!

Lovely little gift for someone special this Christmas??

The pennants have so many possibilities, don't you think?

And how cute would these be on the Thanksgiving table?

To send light into the darkness of men's hearts - such is the duty of the artist. ~Schumann

Stamping Fun

2011-11-09T05:00:00.001-08:00

Went to an all day stamp event with my friends.

Made SOOOO many beautiful things, I just have to give you a peek!

This beautiful project holds a post-it pad - wouldn't that be a beautiful addition to your desk?

We were taught how to make gorgeous ribbon roses:

There were lots of beautiful cards, with matching gift boxes:

Such a fun day!

Art is the only way to run away without leaving home. ~Twyla Tharp

Visions of horses dancing in our head....

2011-11-08T05:00:00.000-08:00

Went on a little country hike with Wendy.

With all our our camera gear.

We were looking to capture a beautiful scene we saw during a hike last spring.

This next photo (not taken by me) is kinda like what we saw that day a few months ago... it was so amazing to us we decided right then and there we would come back with our cameras.

(Not My Photo, just the vision that was dancing in my head!)

Well, our plan to return in a few days turned into a few weeks....and then a few months...

But we finally made plans to return to capture that beautiful image....

Well, unfortunately, this was the only scene we found.

BORING! They had added ugly corrals, there was no mist and no gentle lighting.

AND there were lots of "No Trespassing" signs now, so we couldn't even get close to the horses....

Thankfully I brought along my zoom lens, or we wouldn't have been able to even see the beauty in these adorable horses....

Waaa.....!

Let this be a lesson to us and to you -- bring your camera where ever you go, (even if its just your cell phone)

...and take the time to capture that memory while you can, because when you return, it might not be there!

God gave us memories that we might have roses in December. ~J.M. Barrie

Christmas Gift for Grandma: San Diego Family Beach Photographer

2011-11-07T05:00:00.001-08:00

The G, S and D families had an idea.......

For the perfect gift for grandma...

A group portrait of all her kids and grandkids!

So we met down at La Jolla Cove to capture some memories AND a Christmas present!

We also had time for portraits of each individual family (so they had a beautiful portrait for their own Christmas card.)

As well as portraits of the grandkids!

I can't wait to hear what Grandma says when she opens her Christmas gift this year!

Pleasure is spread through the earth
In stray gifts to be claimed by whoever shall find.
~William Wordsworth

My newest piece of equipment....

2011-11-06T05:00:00.000-08:00

Decided I needed a new piece of equipment for my business.

Any guesses?

Here's a pretty big clue:

Did you guess?

My big reason for wanting one is to share my Photo Videos when I am meeting with a prospective Bride and Groom. I think those shows are so unique and wonderful I don't want them to miss it!

(This photo isn't the best, but you get the idea.) And just in case you want to see that beautiful wedding video, click HERE

Investing is putting out money to be sure of getting more money back later at an appropriate rate. Warren Buffet

Trolley Dances

2011-11-05T05:00:00.000-07:00

You probably already know I'm big on the arts.

Music, theatre, etc.

But I haven't really had much exposure to San Diego's Dance Scene.

So when I heard about the Trolley Dances I suggested a girls day out with Betsy and Wendy.

Fortunately, they agreed - so we set out.

You buy a pass for the trolley....

and here's the unique part, as you ride to each station, you get off and enjoy some sort of dance.

The dances take advantage of the architecture and facilities at each trolley station...

When the dance is over, you jump on the trolley and ride to the next station!

At one station, our guide led us to an abandoned restaurant and we enjoyed a hilarious dance inside the store!

The dancers were very talented and we enjoyed the shows.

And we all felt a little more artsy by the end of the day!

The truest expression of a people is in its dance and in its music. Bodies never lie. ~Agnes de Mille

Fall Foliage or Leaf Peeping

2011-11-04T05:00:00.000-07:00

Some day I'm going to take a photo field trip to the New England states to see the bright fall leaves.

Maybe I'll invite you all to go with me?

I'm just dying to see those beautiful autumn colors!

(The leaf peeping season back east is just about done, but did you know there are lots of webcams capturing fall foliage in New England? Click HERE if you want to check some out!)

San Diego doesn't have many colorful leaves, but lucky for me, I found a small grove not far from home...

Winter is an etching, spring a watercolor, summer an oil painting and autumn a mosaic of them all. ~Stanley Horowitz

No spring nor summer beauty hath such grace
As I have seen in one autumnal face.
~John Donne

Shaun: Class of 2012 San Diego Poway High School Senior Portrait Photographer

2011-11-03T05:00:00.001-07:00

Shaun wanted something more unique than a studio portrait to tell the story of his senior year.

So we met at the beach for a fun filled hour.

He brought along some props, some different outfits and his letterman's jacket.

Oh and his family.

They came too!

They are such a fun family, we were laughing the whole time!

They are planning to hang some of their portraits in their living room - I was happy to spend some time with them holding up my portrait samples, so we could figure out just what to order!

We decided on one 20x30 and two 11x14's -- they are going to send me a photo of the wall when it's ready and I'll be sure to show you!

"A smile happens in a flash, but the memory can last a lifetime"
Author: unknown

Book Club: The Hunger Games

2011-11-02T05:00:00.000-07:00

Book Club time!

This month's book is "The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins.

The author asks you to consider:

Could you survive on your own, in the wild, with everyone fighting against you?

Here's some details about this story set in the future:

Twenty-four are forced to enter. Only the winner survives. In the ruins of a place once known as North America lies the nation of Panem, a shining Capitol surrounded by twelve outlying districts. Each year, the districts are forced by the Capitol to send one boy and one girl between the ages of twelve and eighteen to participate in the Hunger Games, a brutal and terrifying ﬁght to the death - televised for all of Panem to see.

Survival is second nature for sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen, who struggles to feed her mother and younger sister by secretly hunting and gathering beyond the fences of District 12. When Katniss steps in to take the place of her sister in the Hunger Games, she knows it may be her death sentence. If she is to survive, she must weigh survival against humanity and life against love.

WINNING WILL MAKE YOU FAMOUS. LOSING MEANS CERTAIN DEATH.

In keeping with the theme of the book, Wendy prepared a delicious lunch for us!

A curry stew (SOOOOOOO good- we all asked for the recipe!)

A beautiful salad...

And an amazing four berry pie (with ice cream of course!)

Bright and bubbly as ever, Effie Trinket trots to the
podium and gives her signature, “Happy Hunger Games!
And may the odds be ever in your favor!” The Hunger Games

Once you have your portraits, make sure you enjoy them! San Diego Wedding Album Designer

2011-11-01T05:00:00.000-07:00

Pardon me if I jump up on my soap box for a minute....

When you have some portraits you love (whether I captured them or you snapped them) make sure they are on display!

There's nothing a photo hates more than being stuck in a drawer, or worse yet, stuck in your COMPUTER or CAMERA! Eeek! They HATE that!

(Yes, photos talk to me all the time --trust me on this cuz we're soul buddies)

Well another way to enjoy your portraits is to put them in a beautiful book to keep on your coffee table.

Did you know I will custom design an album with your family portraits? Or your high school senior's portraits?

Yep.

And I also do....

Wedding Albums!

And speaking of albums, I just have to share some of my newest creations!

First of all, did you know a custom designed wedding album is included with all my Wedding Collections?

Well, now you know.

These are the albums from Holly and Chris's beautiful wedding! They ordered a large album for themselves and three duplicate, mini albums for their parents.

I begin designing the wedding album for my brides about two weeks after their wedding....when the album design is complete, the bride's come to my studio to review each page on my computer - they make changes, swap portraits and add any text they might want....

When the album is EXACTLY what the bride and groom want, we send it to my publisher.

Three weeks later, the albums arrive and are incredible!

Did you notice they have a special binding so the center seam is invisible and that pages lay flat?

The books feature sturdy, silver-halide, archival quality photo paper for vivid fade-resistant colors with a fingerprint resistant glossy finish.

There are now two choices for covers.

Your album cover can feature a portrait on the front and back or Leather-Lux covers which feature a rich Italian leather finish and come in six different colors.

If you are ever interested in looking at the quality of the albums, let me know!

"Memory is a way of holding on to the things you love, the things you are, the things you never want to lose." From the TV show The Wonder Years

Trick or Treat!

2011-10-31T05:00:00.000-07:00

Well, today is my first Halloween with Matt away at college....

no more pumpkin carving....
no more decorating a haunted front yard...
no more sewing costumes...
and no more visits to the pumpkin patch....

WAIT [insert the sound of a record player needle scratching over a record zzzzzpppppttttttttt...]

I CAN visit a pumpkin patch! I just need to find some little ones to join me!

So I put a note on my facebook page offering free pumpkin patch portraits....

And had some adorable little punkins come join me in the pumpkin patch!

We spent an hour wandering around, playing, relaxing and enjoying the patch

They had a pretty fabulous petting zoo too. (When was the last time I was in a petting zoo??????? Can't remember!)

I will say that the llama was in need of orthodontics....

And the goat was a little too 'needy' if you know what I mean....

But the kiddies were ADORABLE!

It was so much fun! I think I'm going to plan some more quick and fun, AND free little get togethers!

FIVE LITTLE PUMPKINS SITTING ON A GATE

Five little pumpkins sitting on a gate,
The first one said,
"Oh my, it's getting late."
The second one said,
"But we don't care."
The third one said,
"I see witches in the air."
The fourth one said,
"Let's run, and run, and run."
The fifth one said,
"Get ready for some fun."
Then whoosh went the wind,
and out went the lights,
And five little pumpkins rolled out of sight!

Pumpkins!

2011-10-30T05:00:00.000-07:00

Wendy and I couldn't resist a trip over to our local pumpkin patch.

There's just something magical about all those bright and beautiful punkins' isn't there?

Some looking a little exhausted and weary....

While others look young and perky!

Now they offer lots of different varieties - from green to yellow to white:

But give me a plain ole everyday ORANGE one any day!

(And tune in tomorrow and I'll share some pumpkin patch PORTRAITS with you!)

Noteable Pumpkin Sayings:

The Pumpkin is always oranger on the other side of the patch.

I'll love you til the end of vine.

Ask not what your Pumpkin can do for you, ask what you can do for your pumpkin!

People with glass Pumpkins shouldn't throw gourds.

I never met a pumpkin I didn't like.

Give me pumpkins or give me death

A rolling pumpkin gathers no moss.

If at first you do not succeed, grow, grow again.

Which came first: The pumpkin or the Pumpkin seed?

To irrigate, or not to irrigate, that is the question?

A Pumpkin by any other name is still a pumpkin

To err is human, a pumpkin is divine.

That's the way the pumpkin crumbles.

A pumpkin (Pie, cookie or Ice cream) a day, keeps the doctor away.

Win one for the Pumpkin

Where the Wild Things Are...?

2011-10-29T05:00:00.002-07:00

While I was up in the mountains I brought along my camera (surprise, surprise)

To capture some of the beauty.

Like chipmunks!

Steller's Jay

Acorn Woodpecker, and a cowbird...

(...thanks to Grammy and Pop pop for identifying the wildlife,)

and this cute little guy! [A different KIND of wild life!]

Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature's peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop off like autumn leaves. ~John Muir

A Mountain Get Away

2011-10-28T05:00:00.000-07:00

Hubby and I squeezed a quick mountain get away into our busy schedules....

Time to get up and out of the rat race...and into the peaceful, mountain air!

Where beauty is found everywhere, from the sun glistening through the pine trees....

To a ray of sunshine on the forest floor.....

Where simple things remind you how beautiful this world we live in really is!

Man's heart away from nature becomes hard. ~Standing Bear

Wyatt and Tiffany are together again! San Diego, MCAS Miramar Military Homecoming Photographer

2011-10-27T05:00:00.001-07:00

Make sure you've already read yesterday's blog entry because that really set the stage for today's portraits.

(Go ahead and flip down to that if you missed it....I'll wait here)

Now, all caught up?

Okay, well once the choppers had taxi'd to a stop, repositioned their rotors and shut down their engines, the general signaled, GO!

(Actually he just yelled it....but signaled sounded more dignified...?)

This was the lovely scene when Tiffany reached her fiance:

And I also have to show you the view behind us as the whole crowd made a bee-line for their soldier as well:

All lookin' for some long awaited hugging....

That time-stopping, tear filled, super tight kind of hugging...

The kind that ends with tears in your eyes and smiles as wide as can be...?...Yep, THAT kind of hugging!

I think you can imagine the excitement, the love and the happiness!

Then we had time for some more formal portraits

...and...um...maybe another hug to two...

Then it was time to grab Wyatt's gear and head for home...

(And just a little aside, I'm thinking this isn't the most luxurious way to travel...? )

Then we all turned to head on home....

Thank you for your service and sacrifice. (Soldier AND family!)

Distance between two hearts is not an obstacle, rather a beautiful reminder of just how strong true love can be. ~Author Unknown

Wyatt will soon be home: San Diego, MCAS Miramar Military Homecoming Photographer

2011-10-26T05:00:00.002-07:00

First, some background:

Tiffany (the cutie pie on the left) is engaged to marry Wyatt (who has been deployed for 7 months.)

A few months ago, she was telling one of her friends about Wyatt's homecoming. Well lucky for me her pal was a past Savoring The Sweet Life client and friend :-) of mine! Well she suggested Tiffany give me a call to capture Wyatt's homecoming. (Thank you Janet!)

Tiffany told me that before then she didn't even KNOW this kind of photography was possible.

So we met in the helicopter hangar at MCAS Miramar Marine base along with Tiffany and Wyatt's parents to await his homecoming....

It always seems like we have to wait FOREVER, but after about 45 minutes we heard the squadron.

We all strained our necks trying to spot the choppers and then suddenly, they appeared!

That is a sight hundreds of loved ones have been waiting for for SEVEN MONTHS!

If you listen REALLY hard, I think you should be able to feel and hear the wump, wump, wump of the copter rotors...

...and maybe the pounding heartbeat of Tiffany as she waits for her fiance?

After a loop over the crowd, they taxi'd toward us - and when they got close enough, we noticed the first chopper (flown by the commander) had opened a window to wave the flag!

(Honestly, this gives me chills......how 'bout you?)

Think for a moment about what this means to the soldier...

I bet every soldier on every chopper was grinnin' ear to ear!

Then we wait a bit more while they maneuver the helicopters to their parking places.

... and then we wait a bit more as the ground crew collapses and moves the rotors so they are all tucked in nicely...

..suddenly the air was still as all the copters simultaneously turn off their engines.

....and the signal was given to "GO!"

(tune in tomorrow to see the emotional reunion!)

Homecoming means coming home to what is in your heart. ~Author Unknown

The Blue Angels: San Diego Military Homecoming Photographer

2011-10-25T05:00:00.001-07:00

When you live in a military city, you see stuff like this all the time.....

(Well, maybe not ALL the time, but you know what I mean...)

Not too long ago, the Miramar Marine Base hosted an air show. I didn't have a chance to visit the show itself, but I happened to be on base the day before while they were rehearsing.....

If you want to look at last year's airshow, click HERE

Since I was on base anyway, and had a few extra minutes, I snapped a few photos of the jets traveling at speeds of over 1300 miles per hour!

Do you remember two years ago when my friend's hubby FLEW with the Blue Angels? HERE

In this last photo, it seemed like the jet was going to fly straight into the hangar with us!

Tomorrow I'll show you why I was on base.....but I bet you can guess....???

The United States Navy's Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, popularly known as the Blue Angels, was formed in 1946 and is currently the oldest formal flying aerobatic team. The squadron's six demonstration pilots currently fly the F/A-18 Hornet in more than 70 shows at 34 locations throughout the United States each year, where they still employ many of the same practices and techniques used in their aerial displays in 1946.

Theresa's Heartstrings: Quilt Photographer

2011-10-24T05:00:00.001-07:00

Quilting is an incredible gift and I really enjoy admiring the skill and hard work a quilter puts into her project.

That's why I was so happy to receive a phone call from Theresa asking me to photograph one of her prize quilts.

She is planning to enter the quilt in a State Quilt Contest and wanted some top notch portraits of it to submit

You might remember some of the other quilts I've photographed? HERE, HERE and HERE

We also captured the back and her beautiful name plate (which I think is a great idea!)

She promised to let me know if she wins the contest -- I'll keep you posted!

A quilt is a treasure which follows its owner everywhere.

A Family - fun at the beach! San Diego, Del Mar Family and Child Photographer

2011-10-23T05:00:00.000-07:00

Meet the A Family - a mom, a dad and four of the sweetest little ones that you'd ever want to meet!

They first enjoyed my portraits from our church's Vacation Bible School - so when they were ready for some family portraits, they gave me a call!

We met on the beach near Del Mar to capture some memories!

Since we spent a full hour together, we had plenty of time for some formal poses AND a teeny bit of silliness!

And I don't know about you, but I can totally see this next silhouette in the sunset on a large canvas over the fireplace!

(I wish I had something like that of my Matt when he was little! boo hoo)

Lucky for us, the grandfolks were visiting from Pennsylvania....so we brought them along and captured some memories with them and FOR them as well!

"A family is a gift that lasts forever"