MHA Moments

Studio Time with Sharelle

2011-12-08T23:51:00.001-05:00

Time in the studio so far has been great and so much fun! I recently had the privilege to work with my friend and roommate Sharelle. She is starting to look into modeling at conventions and I snagged the chance to finally get her in front of the lens. Below are some shots from our session.

Sharelle 2011

The Thinker

Looking forward to the next shoot in the studio and of course in my favorite location, out in the natural beauty that is Mother Earth.

Until next time!

xoxo

Photo Studio Is In the House

2011-12-04T23:54:00.001-05:00

The last couple of months have been very productive and I, along with a great friend has helped me set up my photo studio. I've been able to complete 2 photo shoots so far and below are the results. I am absolutely thrilled to be "BACK in the SADDLE again" (as Mr. Steven Tyler so elequently belts out)!

Paulina 2011

Paulina (Cool Rider) 2011

2011

Paulina 2011

The Studio is now running. If you are interested in setting up an appointment, please email MHA Photography at mhaphotography@gmail.com

Where Did The Time Go?

2011-09-25T14:43:00.001-04:00

I cannot believe it is has been well over a year before my last post. Promises of blogging each and every time. Well let me get you all updated.

It has been a whirlwind of happenings, distractions and just not getting to the blog in order to seriously start typing for an hour or two to update all the great things (and some not so great things).

I am currently writing down my thoughts and experiences out here in Las Vegas, about the people, the whys and hows and perhaps an article in the near future will happen. I am looking into my roots now as to what I wanted to do way back when and who knows, maybe the writer that used to lay within when I was a lot younger will come forth to reveal that I am my own personal article machine, photos and all. :)

Since my last Dr. Sketchy's Anti-Art School post, I'm excited to say I've become the "Principal" of the Las Vegas chapter. My hopes are to grow this chapter into a plethora of Las Vegas artists. I hope to attract more and more to come out and use the resources of models and ideas and to hopefully inspire a strong following for Dr. Sketchy's out here in Las Vegas. Las Vegas has several untapped talented artists and I've seen the art scene grow and I hope it keeps on growing. The growth, I believe has a lot to do with the massive amount of people now coming to First Friday downtown Art District. More venues have opened up for more artists to display their pieces. I hope to be able to tap into that and grow with it. Art, Photography and being with great people I am passionate about and there is a lot of that downtown. For me though I have to figure out how I want to incorporate that with my career growth. I have ideas but now I have to make them happen.

As for Photography, it is still slow going. Coming out to Las Vegas and being here now for 2 years is a process. Adjustment and luck and a bit of determined luck and stating it will happen, has something to do with it. I think I am finally starting to adjust my living, I am still trying to adjust my finances and now I hope to start moving full speed ahead rather than zig-zagging all over the place in photography. I've been doing a lot of tack folly (if that makes sense).

So, I gave you a little insight as to what has been happening. If I kept writing I'd bore you to death because there has been so many adventures and learning, so I thought it would be good idea to write little-by-little, but for now I'll show you some recent photos I've taken. Just a small sampling.

Dr. Sketchy's Anti-Art School

2010-03-17T16:02:00.023-04:00

Dr. Sketchy's The Anti-Art School was introduced to me back in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania by an incredibly talented friend Steve Cleff (who now runs the Philadelphia Dr. Sketchy's chapter, previously run by Nicola Black) before I came out to Las Vegas. I am a huge supporter of art and was very anxious to find out more about this once a month outting.

I had an awesome time at the Super Heroes vs. Super Villains session. My photography eye widened with excitement as I went into an artistic inspirational flow. I started snapping away, looking for a way to create artful images and to photograph models. Something I haven't done exclusively yet and have been wanting to do so for some time now. Below are some images from that first themed session.

Now that I am in Las Vegas I was very happy to find out that Dr. Sketchy's is a nationwide and worldwide phenomena. A Dr. Sketchy's is growing on every continent and thankfully there is a chapter right here in my new town of Las Vegas, Nevada. I immediately contacted the Chapter head Cha Cha Velour to see if I was able to photograph sessions. Cha Cha, who is also an awesome and well known Burlesque dancer and one of the models who occasionally poses in the Vegas sessions was eager for another photographer to participate.

I attended my first Las Vegas session in November 2009. The Model and Burlesque dancer was Miss. Karla Joy and a fellow member of the Las Vegas Chapter of the Zombie Squad (but that little link is for another blog post...). The night was fun, I met a lot of great new people who were into the art scene as much as I was, although I did learn something about Las Vegas that night. The Art Scene in Las Vegas is not like it is in Philadelphia. It is a lot less known out here. Almost as if the gambling out weighs the art culture that could actually be thriving out here. It seems the artistic, the real art out here and the talented people who should be seen get set aside. They are the underground out here rather then embraced and flaunted as they should be for their talent.

So I want to promote Dr. Sketchy's as much as possible. To show that there are people out here who are passionate and love the arts, who love to draw, paint, sketch, write, sing, dance and as I do, photograph. It isn't all just flashing lights and gambling.

Ok back to November session (since I am trying to catch up on my blogging... ;) )

Here are some photos from that session: Slideshow style... Hoping this works... :)

Well... It is a small slideshow... Next time I'll make it larger. I have to get ready for work at the moment so no time to create for January's session with Lisa or February's session with Diamond Minx.

And yes I am getting caught up on my time here in Las Vegas. Finally starting to get grounded out here and I hope to obtain a more substantial occupation so I can start blogging more often and share my experiences both in life and photography...

Have a wonderful St. Patrick's Day!

Until next time...

April to October

2009-11-07T15:10:00.014-05:00

Many, many things have happened since my Vacation to California. Several exciting and some unfortunate learning experiences.

However the the most important and life changing that has happened has been my decision on where to move and I picked Las Vegas, Nevada. Yep, the last several months I've been deciding, planning, researching, finding where to live and of course packing. It had and has been a whirlwind of changes and each and every one of them I am proud and happy I made.

So now I am in Las Vegas, Nevada starting a new chapter and most definitely loving the weather. I have moved in with two incredible roommates who also took the chance on their dreams to come out here and start fresh.

I've also met another friend who has been inspiring to jump start my career. Granted it took 2 months to calm down from being in the (twiddle my thumbs) desk job I held back in Pennsylvania to, as my roommates put it, a "stay-cation". It took a little bit to get motivation up but I did and it is slowly paying off.

My first adventure out here in the photography business has been helping my Roommates Rebeccha and Rob, and Mike (All Nite Mike) an awesome talented D.J. by night, who is trying to jump start Dinner Theater out here in Sin City. Something I believe in after being a part of it and seeing it first hand that this town of skin and sin desperately needs, especially due to the economy going down the drain and everything priced at $85 and up.

I am no actress by any means (hence why I am behind the camera) but I was able to help with lines and of course the photography angle of it. It was most fun and I am really happy I was able to help with the transition and to hopefully make things less stressful.

The first show was on October 31, 2009 and the play they presented to Laughlin, NV was called "Ghost Town". Written by Ron Long and of course Directed and Produced by All Nite Mike (ANM Entertainment).

Chief Sitting Still giving A few "minor" lessons in the art of comedy.

I also started photographing more promotional and modeling work to expand my portfolio and of course, to keep learning as much as I possibly can. I do want to do more with this field.

Below are some photos I took of Mike during one of his many D.J. assignments that weekend. This was just for fun, however I ended up liking a few, and hopefully we will go out for another photo shoot soon in the desert and get, creative.

AllNiteMike

and

AllNiteMike

There is more of both Mike and "Ghost Town" however I need to get back to updating my website and other things.

I am very motivated to get back out in to the field of landscapes as well. Since coming out here I really haven't had the time to venture out on my own to see what beauty lies and awaits me here on the trails of the desert. The sunsets around here alone have made me long to go hiking with tripod in hand and capture the beauty and intensity of Mother Earth. I might go on foot or I might go out on Horse, either way I can not wait to get "snapping".

I will strive to keep updates going here as well as my website, since I recently came to realize that when you wait a year to update your website, it truly is a pain in the A$$ to finally get it updated. Check it out MHA Photography. I still need to figure out a few details, but all in all it is coming along nicely.

I hope to be more detailed next entry.

Until next time.

p.s. My California Vacation is up on Flickr if you want to see any of it. Not all are one but the majority is: Michele's Photostream

Vegas2009-1 (9)

2009-07-30T15:12:00.001-04:00

Vegas2009-1 (9)
Originally uploaded by MHA Photography / Michele

The Cottage at Mt. Charleston... memories not to forget. Happy times and memorable times

Sailing Monday

2009-06-22T13:40:00.001-04:00

MontGetty (56 of 214)
Originally uploaded by MHA Photography / Michele

A lazy Monday afternoon in Monterey California. peaceful feeling

At the Griffith Observatory

2009-06-21T23:39:00.001-04:00

LA and strip-86
Originally uploaded by MHA Photography / Michele

The Griffith Observatory was awesome! This just reminded me of Greece...

The Getty

2009-06-21T23:35:00.001-04:00

MontGetty (179 of 214)
Originally uploaded by MHA Photography / Michele

In love with this place!

The Getty Gardens

2009-06-21T23:32:00.001-04:00

Getty
Originally uploaded by MHA Photography / Michele

The Getty Gardens - exceptional - photo eye candy

Getty and it's Gardens

2009-06-21T23:31:00.001-04:00

MontGetty (195 of 214)
Originally uploaded by MHA Photography / Michele

Went a little nuts in the Getty's Garden area... It was massive

Einstein is enlightening

2009-06-21T23:24:00.001-04:00

Einstein is enlightening
Originally uploaded by MHA Photography / Michele

My new boyfriend, he is such a stiff, but very enlightening...

Yo HO!

2009-06-21T23:19:00.001-04:00

MontGetty (10 of 214)
Originally uploaded by MHA Photography / Michele

Where there is a sea there are pirates

There Be Pirates

2009-06-21T23:14:00.001-04:00

MontGetty (14 of 214)
Originally uploaded by MHA Photography / Michele

There be Pirates

2009-06-21T23:13:00.001-04:00

MontGetty (13 of 214)
Originally uploaded by MHA Photography / Michele

A flourish of Pirate paraphernalia every where I turned in Monterey. I feel I am getting closer and closer to becoming one. YO HO!
I likee me a Pirate. ;)

Monterey California,

2009-06-21T22:07:00.001-04:00

Monterey California,
Originally uploaded by MHA Photography / Michele

Chillin at Monterey CA, twas relaxing after that long drive! ;)

Waiting for that wave

2009-06-21T22:05:00.001-04:00

Waiting for that wave
Originally uploaded by MHA Photography / Michele

Chilin with the seagulls..

Surfer waiting for something... ;)

2009-06-21T22:02:00.001-04:00

Surfer waiting for something... ;)
Originally uploaded by MHA Photography / Michele

I stopped A LOT when driving along the Pacific Coast Highway. It took me several hours to get up to Monterey. It was a great Drive!

Front Entrance of the Getty

2009-06-21T21:57:00.001-04:00

Front Entrance of the Getty
Originally uploaded by MHA Photography / Michele

This is the Front Entrance to the Getty in LA!

At the Getty

2009-06-21T21:55:00.001-04:00

At the Getty
Originally uploaded by MHA Photography / Michele

At the Getty in LA California - just walking in and BOOM! Photo heaven! ;)

MontGetty (88 of 214)

2009-06-21T21:53:00.001-04:00

MontGetty (88 of 214)
Originally uploaded by MHA Photography / Michele

When on Vacation in Los Angeles California I had the opportunity to go to the Getty Museum... 100% incredible place to go! My photographic eye went wild... ;)

Solo Photo vacation Part 1

2009-05-01T11:50:00.013-04:00

I haven't written in a Very long time and again, again, and again, have been trying to start a new trend with myself to write more often. I've been through ALOT these last few years and big decisions are being made as I write this.

My photography will still be my number one motivator in career, but where I'll be doing it will be defining my decisions and new adventures.

Hence my solo Vacation.

I wanted to go on vacation to see several things, to research possible moving destinations, see who I am and how I handle myself on my own in a foreign State (away from family) and to get off my ass and go on vacation. I mean, really, who says you can not go on vacation by yourself... I go to the movies on my own when I really want to see a movie, I go out to eat so why not a Vacation... Who says you have to be with someone to do something you want to do? I've heard it all since planning it and one of the top questions... "You are going by yourself?!?" "that is bold!" Why is it so "bold"?
Even though we humans are social slaves, addicts, why is it unheard of in most peoples heads to go on Vacation or whatever by yourself and that it is not normal. So a big vacation like this is just, dare I say it, odd? Well I guess I am odd... Always have been and most likely always will... ;p heh heh.

SO, for those of you who don't know me and for those people stumbling upon this entry or not...

My Vacation started off in Vegas, Friday April 24th. Yes I want to be and live in Vegas, been thinking about it for a long while now
I'll place photos of the cabin and cottage front up soon... Just haven't had the chance on this vacation (STILL on it) to upload all photos.

IN the morning on Saturday April 25th I (being from the East Coast and jet lag is and was) got up way to early. The sun was starting to rise and I had a photo urge. I got out of the nice warm comfortable king bed and went outside with my camera ready to snap a few fun sunrise shots... um... note to self - put shoes on when doing this on Mt. Charleston - in April - in the morning... Hek, put a friggin snow suit on! ;p

As I was standing outside snapping away all the different wonderful scenes as the sun rised, I realized my feet were turning into ice cubes. I finally said, "I better get back in". I Made some hot cocoa, went to sit down to snuggle on the couch and check out the photos I just took, when I looked up and saw... saw... SNOW! Yup. not only was it as cold as it was in Pennsylvania before I left, it had started to snow. My brain couldn't get around the fact I was close to Vegas, how could this be? Simple I was on a mountain!!! So I got my phone and started my first facebook photos. Yes, I have a Facebook and well - most likely annoying the crap out of people with all my updates this trek... LOL!

So... After the snow... after some more warm under the covers bed time, I had to leave. BOOO.

After all said and done, James asked the ultimate question. What time is your flight? ARRRRGH... I said it leaves at 9:15... :( I didn't want to leave, but I did have California awaiting and I really did want to see LA, Pacific Coast Highway and see old friends and meet new ones so my decision in where to be on the West coast was a more decided one.

April 26th - James chivalrously took my slow, tired, didn't want to wake up ass to the airport and I hopped on a flight to LAX... Something that took only 1 hour. Enough time for coffee and the flight attendants practically throwing peanuts at us for the "protocol" peanut give away. LOL! I laughed at that...

I arrived in LAX at 10:55 or let's just round it off to 11am... Picked up luggage and went to THRIFTY for my rental. Picked up the car earlier than expected so I had to spend a bit more money for the damn rental insuring that I got back, on time Wednesday afternoon! It was a cute Dodge Calibur and when the attendant told me "Keys are in car pick what you like" I went out and, being a girl, of course picked the brightest color vehicle. Come on! I am on Vacation! no one will ever see me in that again... ;p

After picking up the car, I called my friend and Old Alumni Sunny, who graciously offered to be my tour guide for the day. After I got settled in my room she gave me her address. Not mentioning that one of the words was ONE word. My GPS took it as another address and I didn't realize this until I headed in the wrong direction, towards traffic. LA Traffic. So, I started snapping with my mobile camera phone and took a photo of the Pasadena/Hollywood sign. uploaded it to Facebook and got numerous reactions. One being from a long lost Hengeveld. LOL! well it was from a Hengeveld I be friended on Facebook and I have NO idea if there is a relation or not.

The Hengeveld Urban Legend is for another Blog Entry.

So, Mr. Daniel Hengeveld of MA46 and another band contacted me via Facebook advising me he and his band were playing on the Sunset Strip at El Cid that night. I thought to myself AWESOME! I am there to photograph. Never been on the Sunset Strip and have been wanting to go for the longest time... WHY NOT...

I finally got to Sunny after my GPS debacle. (ONLY I WOULD HAVE ONE!!! Only I would have a GPS system and STILL get lost... LMAO)...

Sunny took me out to Manns Chinese Theater (YES) I found several celebrities shoes and hands I had to photo and be the TOURIST and put my hands in theirs. And after 20 minutes of walking in circles, I found Frank Sinatra. For some reason I was COMPELLED to find him. and let me tell you, he was a small friggin man. My hands were almost the size of his. I thought for sure he'd be close to 6 foot.

Also, great tip from Sunny for those future Mann Theater goers... Do NOT talk to anyone that has a costume on. They ask for money to get photos taken with them. ALL of them do.

Since Sunny was so great to take me around and show me places I would never think to go, I took her to Sushi Lunch. (pictures to follow).

Then we headed to Mulholland Drive. (photos to follow)

We then went to the Griffith Observatory (Photos to follow)
Ok - I need to stop for now. Didn't realize how late it was on this Friday Morning and I still want to people watch in Venice Beach so I will continue this LONG ASS entry soon! And will upload those photos, since my writing skills need practice.

Until next time my 1 perhaps 2 readers... LOL!

Happy 2009 Year!

2009-01-10T10:18:00.018-05:00

I am back and ready to kick 2009 to another level!

Happy New Year to all!

It was a long rocky road in 2008 and I believe I came out with a more positive, hopeful and grateful to have learned all that I did attitude and again ready to get focused on the things I want to accomplish. There are several, several goals to achieve and I am not stopping until I persevere. ;)

Since I've skipped several entries - I just wanted to get back into the swing of things and start off by showing some photos I did last year of the last three Weddings I did of the year.

First was my Beautiful Step-sisters Wedding.

Amy and David had a beautiful and unique Wedding, due to the fact it was the first I ever did in someone's backyard. What I loved about it, was that she had it outdoors (always love natural lighting - best lighting there is). Second after the ceremony, instead of the typical seed throwing, bubble blowing crowd marital acknowledgment, she had everyone let balloons fly up into the atmosphere, each one holding their name and date. And lastly, For me one of the most refreshing was the fact she let all of the young ones and, well, everyone change into swim suits for an additional pool party , all in all an awesome Wedding!

Here are some of the shots:

Flush Bound pages

2008-08-14T06:48:00.007-04:00

Wanted to share a couple of Flush bound pages that I've designed with my clients for the their ultimate Wedding album.

I do love the way the pages look and I am so anxious to send the finished product to them.

Again these are just a few - this blushing bride has 40 pages of her special day so you can tell she picked A LOT of photos. Awesome Katie! T.J. you are going to love it!

Wish I could do this all day, unfortunately I have to get ready for my other job... ARRRGGGHHH... Soon - so very soon...

Until next post!

Been awhile

2008-08-12T16:15:00.002-04:00

It has been awhile since I posted. 2008 is turning into a bizarre year. I don't know about any of you bloggers out there, but for me it is a year to be "tested". I just hope I have been getting good grades... ;)

Which brings me to some work related blogging. I've recently completed some beautiful Weddings that I am thrilled about. I love some of the photos I was able to get and I will be placing them up with in the week. I am normally very critical of my work, but I was having a ton of fun at the Weddings as some of you may have seen...LOL!

Many of my beautiful couples have been, finally, coming out of the wood work to get their albums designed and completed, and I want to say to them, a very well deserved THANK YOU! Thank you for all of your patience!

Again, it has been a very bizarre year for me, and I haven't gotten things to you on time like I usually do, so I say again, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your kind patience.

The finished product is so worth it. I almost want to take them back for sample albums... LOL! But I wouldn't do that. ;)

Also - My new website has been launched!

http://www.mhaphotography.com

Let me know what you think of the new layout.

I am still adding photos and working on the links page since I want to add as many helpful vendors and venues as I possibly can to make life a little easier for everyone. ;)
However, the hosting site for some reason, does not let you add unless you have a URL address for the entry, so some of the vendors and great people I have met do not have a website yet.

One being a great D.J. named Bobby Sacco. He is incredible - literally able to get everyone and their Grandmother dancing to the beat. I witnessed it first hand. LOL! I recommend him highly for any Wedding or party you all may have. I will get his number up on the site shortly, as soon as I get home - just note, when you click on the URL it will just take you back to my home page. So don't think anything is wrong with your computer.

Well - I will be working tonight on photography and hopefully able to get some of the wonderful shots up on to a post for you all to view.

I am also looking to photograph more models and spread my photography wings in different directions, so if anyone is truly interested, please let me know.

Thanks so much and until next post have a great week!

New Website

2008-06-18T10:04:00.003-04:00

Ok - so I do not have any viewers, yet... But all that is going to change VERY soon! I have found the best webhosting/design website for artists like me!

I am so incredibly excited about the website I put together and will be launching it sometime in the next few days! Yes it will need tweaking since I am way too anxious to get it up and running, but with in the coming months I should have it pretty much perfected with links, photos of my work and whatever else I can think of as I go.

Last weekend I was surfing the net - and this is why I love Google so much - I stumbled upon a another photographers website (admiring how professional it looked) and I happened to notice a small - itty bitty icon at the top of his page, so what else is there to do then to CLICK on it? Right? :P

So that icon took me to Other Peoples Pixels and well - they have taken my anxioty of finding a reasonable/affordable web design site away. They are the perfect match of design and webhosting all wrapped up into one for people like me who know a LITTLE bit about codes (because her friend showed her how to update the last one) but nothing about where to begin designing...

I'll be keeping you posted with a link in a few days and now that my thought process is not soley focused on website design, I should be writing more blogs more often!

Take care Bloggers!

Reflection

2008-03-01T22:06:00.006-05:00

So, this year has started on a different note for me. Several things have happened, several things that have shown how strong I can be and learning experiences I didn't think would happen so soon. For all intent purposes, it is better I have found and experienced this now rather than later.

Some have said blogging can be therapeutic, and I agree, however for me it is a way to say some views to those who may be concerned of my well being that may not be able to come out of the woodwork to see how I am doing by not feeling it is morally correct to communicate through email or phone. Either way I want them all to know I am doing better and I am moving a long day by day, going with the flow and staying confident and optimistic through it all and above all still trying to have fun. Love to have that fun...

I do miss the friends and family I had become close to, but I understand how sometimes in unfamiliar circumstances it can be clouded of what is right and what is wrong to do. Uncomfortable could be a good word to describe it. I do not have any ill will towards anyone because that is how some deal and cope with difficult circumstances. I do still think to my "other" family you are the greatest and I just hope you too can learn from the experience Dave and I are going through.

2008, I hope is going to be a prosperous and career building year. I hope to and will strive to focus on my photography business. I am determined to build my business to new heights and achieve a better, healthy way of life.

I saw a posting on a blog of a person I do admire and wanted to share it: They truly are great words of inspiration:

There is a Purpose...for the people in our lives...Reason, Season, or
Lifetime...

People come into your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime. When you know which one it is, you will know what to do for that person.

When someone is in your life for a REASON, it is usually to meet a need you have expressed. They have come to assist you through a difficulty, to provide you with guidance and support, to aid you physically, emotionally or spiritually. They may seem like a godsend and they are. They are there for the reason you need them to be. Then, without any wrongdoing on your part or at an inconvenient time, this person will say or do something to bring the relationship to an end. Sometimes they die. Sometimes they walk away. Sometimes they act up and force you to take a stand. What we must realize is that our need has been met, our desire fulfilled, their work is done. The prayer you sent up has been answered and now it is time to move on.

Some people come into your life for a SEASON, because your turn has come to share, grow or learn. They bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh. They may teach you something you have never done.
They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy.
Believe it, it is real. But only for a season.

LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons,
things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation. Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life. It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant.

Thanks to all of you for being a part of my life, whether you were a reason, a
season or a lifetime.

This says it all in a nutshell...

LIVE FREE, LOVE ALWAYS and LAUGH OUT LOUD

Me & Mr. Jones

2007-11-06T13:27:00.001-05:00

Me & Mr. Jones
Originally uploaded by MHA Photography / Michele & Dave

On November 3, 2007, I met Mr. James Earl Jones at a Block Party event in Doylestown. Here is a photo my mother took (I unfortunately forgot to change the settings to Auto on my camera, hence it is so contrasty).

You are probably wondering why he was at a block party in Doylestown, well let me tell you.

There is a new makeover show in town and it is all about upgrading your technology with Verizon FiOs. They are testing (I believe) this new venture with 5 families, one happening to be in, you guessed it, Doylestown. The Buckley Family! Congratulations!

How did I find out about this great new show you ask? A very dear old friend of mine is a part of the show. He is in fact one of the Tech Gurus who makes incredible Rockin inventions for each family, he is so good at what he does, they've dubbed him "Mad Scientist". Let me tell you he has made some incredible inventions over the years I've known him.

Anyway, since I wanted to show my support for this perfect job for him and, of course, to get new photo opportunties I headed over to see what this Block Party is all about.

I've also got to meet/talk to great new people through this process on the official "My Home 2.0" website: http://www.2pointhome.com/

Jim the moderator and a cool guy you'll get to meet at the block party to try out the Verizion FiOs speed is full of information for you and if he doesn't know it he will get you the answers as quick as FiOs ;).

Lora Kaczor who is the wife, Mom and from what I hear, an awesome hairstylist who is a member of the first Family Technological Makeover.

Yue who is another Tech Guru, with her great personality, her nack of doing the best impression of Brian Albert and her awesome fashion shoe sense (Sorry Yue, only seen you in the black jumpsuit) and several more cool people,

I've been having a blast being a part of this new community and learning about Verizon FiOs.

So to all of my readers (what is there like two of you out there?) go check out the "My Home 2.0" website, you may just learn something new today.

And check out my Block Party Photos on Flickr

There is also a link to the "My Home 2.0" Flickr account on their site which again is http://www.2pointhome.com/

I know I've learned what I want for Christmas... ;) GH3...

Until next time!

Wedding photos are coming as soon as I get back from Vegas! ;)

October

2007-10-24T21:01:00.001-04:00

Hello again to any out there.

The past few months have been busy, busy, and more busy with Weddings, parties and well you name it and I couldn't quite get to blog.

So, this past weekend I rounded up the last of my Weddings with the exception of one Reception which will be in December and also the great "Breakfast with Santa" hosted by the Moms Club of Buckingham. A fun great Charity I've had the honor of doing 3 years in a row now. Truly fun to see all the kids smiling up or um, crying up at Santa... ;)

I've also just recently completed a CD to give to the Charity I volunteered to photograph on September 22, 2007, called Operation First Response. St. Andrews, the church I got married at threw a great fund raiser and silent auction for this great cause which helps our wounded heroes who come home and are financially in need.

http://www.operationfirstresponse.org/

There were all kinds of fun activities with face painting to dunk tank to military vehicles. There was one area in particular that caught my eye for a photo opportunity. They displayed what is known as the "Fallen Hero" I've seen it before, but to have an opportunity to photograph it left me wanting to show how meaningful it is.

Let me know what you think and please Comment.

In short I will definitely be able to blog more now that some free time has cleared, on the other hand if Tinkerbell keeps up sitting in front of the screen and playing with my keyboard as I try to type, that may be a different story... Stop already Tink! UGH.. OUCH.. :) Just clawed the keyboard and my finger...

Until Next Time...

And it will be sooner then 4 months... ;p

July

2007-07-19T10:33:00.000-04:00

So it has been yet another month since I posted.

It has been one hectic month with many ups and downs.

I've been on Jenny Craig now for 6 weeks total and loss of a total 5.8Ibs with 5.5 inches off. Not TOO bad considering I was already semi-healthy. I have 20Ibs more to go. I hope to get it all off and keep it all off until I am at least 60... ;)

Still striving to get my website built - it has been more stressful than I care to mention. But I do have a layout out invisioned now that is simple, elegant and easy to manage (I hope) :)

I have also been photographing Weddings and other misc. things are getting accomplished. There is so many it is hard to complete all of them. But so far so good.

I will definately put more photos up within the coming weeks. I just want to get one thing accomlished at a time so I am not overwhelmed with deadlines.

Also the Months of July and August is Birthday Season - broke time - so Weddings in the midst of birthdays is, well, let's just say my house needs a cleaning lady... ;) Let's see it usually starts off with my Brother Keith, then Frankie, My Mother In law, Anna (a friends') Eric (nephew), Jordan (niece), Mine, Dave, Frank, Deb, Dad, Mom, I think another August baby and then it ends with Brother Brian and Nephew Brian in September. 14 Birthdays - give or take within two months. A lot of Gift Cards fly around... ;)

Well that is the latest update... More later.

Have a great week!

Ryan Joseph Gross Christening

2007-04-15T20:36:00.000-04:00

Since I've been neglecting my blog I've decided to go with the flow rather than give a time line from last year and pretty much do what I've been supposed to be doing from the beginning - just blog! Yup - just blog! *laugh* I guess because I wanted to start from last year and catch up I started to procrastinate which leads to nothing getting done - which means no one consistently reading and keeping whomever may or may not be reading coming back to...well... read and view.

Needless to say I will eventually get to our Honeymoon, my appearance on the Weekend Edition of the Today Show 2006 (awesome experience), all the 2006 Engagements and Weddings and even further back favorite photos, family gatherings and whatever experiences come my way.

Tonight I wanted to start with something that happened today! Our newest cousin's Christening! Yes people - today - it happened today... Don't faint.

Ryan Joseph Gross - newest cousin - son of George & Lori Gross III and such a cutie pie!

It was and is a very rainy day, several rivers overflowing on the way to St. Agnes Church in Jersey. Definite April showers and then some.

We were about 20 minutes late to the Church, thankfully it was a Catholic church so we didn't miss the big moment. And Thankfully people were standing when I entered since Dave unfortunately dropped me off at the wrong entryway and I / we (after he parked the car) entered on the complete opposite side of where everyone was. There was no carpeting so, again I thank the Lord the people were standing, for I felt awkward enough with my loud heels hitting the tile echoing loudly as I came into the chapel with an already in progress Mass. Luckily only 2 or 3 people looked over as I clunked my way in.

Dave came in and we stood in the back lost - we didn't see anyone. There were a lot of people and it was a large Church. Finally a nice man saw our confusion and pointed us in the right direction.

Ryan was born in January - and up until now I hadn't seen him, only photos so of course I was anxious to see the little tyke, but I would have to wait since we were 3 rows back from George and Lori and they had no clue we had arrived. :)

Needless to say once I was able to relax and see a glimpse of his full head of hair I got my camera out and went wild. :)

The little shoes - too cute!

His Little Hands

Sleeping away.

His little Pendant.

There he is

"Hey baby"

The Godparents holding on while he gets wet.

George, Lori, Ryan, Patti & Dom.

Little Ryan is staring straight at the camera.

Big Day for little Ryan

He is soon sound asleep... again...

What a day.

I hope this starts a new trend on my blog and to be up to date as well as show some past fun I've had with photography.

Until next time.

April 26, 2006

2007-02-25T17:49:00.000-05:00

PIRATE NIGHT - Continued from last post...

Pirate night was a blast for the kids as well as the adults. It was Disney at it's best on a Cruise ship. A great show with all the Characters as well as fireworks! Yup this ship had fireworks. Supposedly the only one that does it. Then again, I've never been on another Cruise so who knows.

They had a sing along on stage for the kids (Skylar was down in front seeing everything), then Mickey flying through the sky to rescue us from Captain Hook. Then Fireworks in Celebration of the rescue. And finally a showing of Pirates of the Caribbean, but I think we went to bed in the middle of it. After all it was almost 1am.

Minnie and Goofy dancing it up!

Skylar up on the Big Screen! Can you pick her out?

Stitch even showed up... :) Taking time out from Hawaii.

Andrea looking Beautiful.

Kaleel - not sure if he was exhausted or just plain surprised at the camera. Uh, I think he was exhausted because I think this was the first time I saw him since we boarded the ship. ;)

Skylar back from the fray of being in front row.

Mickey to the Rescue!

Through the air.

The fireworks. (didn't bring my tripod)

Amanda pretty much summed up the night.

AAARGGH me maty. :)

And this is only Wednesday of the week! When I got back home I was ALL confused as to what day I was in. :)

Tomorrow Thursday - another day at sea with wine tasting talk - beer tasting talk and Breakfast with the Characters! Fun, mucho fun. For now it is dinner time.

Until then!

April 26, 2006 COZUMEL

2007-02-25T15:56:00.000-05:00

April 26, 2006 Cozumel

From our ship.

The very next day on our Disney Cruise we ventured into Cozumel. Dave and I picked another excursion for this day, one that we thought incorporated a good day of hiking, which turned out to be a day of walking from a bus to ruins, walking through ruins, back to bus, then to the beach. One good thing about the excursion Dad & Peggy decided to do the same one so we had company along the way. We split at the end after the beach to see if we couldn't get some bargain shopping in. Uh. I stink at bargaining... :)

Cozumel was devastated by Hurricane Emily the year before. The Cozumel docking ports were still in the middle of reconstruction so we had to, once again, tender over to land. You could see the devastation which occurred throughout Cozumel. We were told by our guide within a short period of time (I think he said 23 days or perhaps it was 36 days) the majority of main tourist spots were rebuilt.

This pier/dock was the place most cruise ships docked along the coast, however almost all were wiped away by the Hurricane and were under construction. This pier/dock actually went out farther than it looks here. The white & orange boat you see is our "tender" ship to take ups back and forth from the ship to Cozumel.

A closer view from our ship

This is our tour guide for the day. He was a little hard to understand because of his thick accent. He was funny, a couple of times during his speech of all that was Cozumel and the ruins he covered his eyes like he was trying to remember the book in which he, most likely memorized what to say.

At the ruins.

Dad & Peggy at the Ruins.

Not much of a hike.

Dad looking Touristy. :)

More of the Ruins of Cozumel

Then the beach - but I only took minimal photos because I was afraid of getting too much sand in the camera. I never was on the beach with it so I was a little scared. I thought this would be a cute one. (yes they are my feet)

Off to go shopping before having to board.

The Market Place where I only got $15. off of an outfit I may have been able to get $30 off of. Oh well - my first lesson in bargaining in Cozumel. :)

It was a fun day.

That night was "Pirate night" which I will get to in a little while.

The Disney Magic was basically embracing the Pirates of the Caribbean by using the Ship as an excuse to have the Pirate night which was a lot much fun. Dave and I skipped dinner at the regular 6pm time and went upstairs to where they usually have the buffet to get a nice quiet dinner. We were all given a pirate bandanna to use later in the evening. So everyone on the ship would be dressed up like pirates and have a show. They then showed on the giant "big screen" at the family pool after the big party highlights, the Pirates of the Caribbean. Oh and the people on board were the first ones to get to preview to the second Pirates of the Caribbean movie, which was pretty cool.

Disney Cruise - April 25, 2006

2007-02-21T22:27:00.000-05:00

April 25th 2006 - Grand Cayman

There is only one problem with a cruise and that is having a deadline to be back on board. So thinking of this gives limited time as to what to do on location, in a beautiful foreign destination. Many things to do so little time to do it, so Dave and I decided to do an excursion to see HELL, (yes Hell, Grand Cayman for those of you who don't know of its existence), a beautiful Tortoise reserve with many, many sea turtles being born and living the life oh and then the RUM cake factory (Tortuga) YUM!

Hell, Grand Cayman was definitely a tourist trap, but fun. There is a very strange and unusual formation which to me up close looks like black coral. I forget how big in diameter the guide said the formation is so I will only get to show you some photos. Unfortunately we are obstructing most of the black stuff.

This is how they've made it "touristy" however it is still fun to see a sign saying "welcome to hell" now I just have to find a place that says "welcome to heaven" :)
(however I think Hawaii doesn't have to say welcome...)

My fisheye on my digital makes a nice self portrait lens. :)

Behind Dave is the Black formation that brings people to "Hell". muah ha ha ha. uh.. yea... ahem...

Again, it could be old black coral from many, many, many years ago.

Then to the Turtle reserve. This guy was just one in several hundred, I think popping his head out of the water.

and here are the several others swimming along and just searching for food and having fun. Actually in front of us was a little girl (too old to be carrying a pacifier in her mouth, she looked like she was 4 or 5) who was, I believe, grunting to her mother, and out of no where started screaming and crying. Her pacifier had fallen into the water and some poor turtle came up and ate it. I just hope the turtle didn't get sick. That is one way to ween the kid off a pacifier. :)

This was just one section of the reserve. They were actually building more areas for more turtles to expand this great place to bring back the sea turtle and to save some rare turtles.

There was another area with all the baby turtles where you were allowed to pick them up and, well, I just had too. It was difficult.
I was scared I was going to hurt the little fellow. The hand in the photo was someone helping me calm the poor guy. Like a cat they love getting their chin rubbed. I couldn't quite reach the chin because of my angle, the shell kept getting in the way, so the nice guy on our tour did it for me while Dave snapped this shot. I quickly gave him to another person anxious to hold one. Squirmy little fella. :)

These two scenes were at the wrap up of the excursion at the Tortuga Rum Cake Factory. Where is the Rum you ask? Uh we ate it... :P We did buy several (I just didn't take photos of the little pentagon gold boxes like I should have - where was my photographer head - uh eating cake people, eating cake... *laugh*)
Chocolate, regular, banana, dark chocolate, pineapple - YUM! SEVERAL other flavors, I mean you name it they probably made the cake.

And this is our SHIP - The Disney Magic. Huge ship isn't it? And the best part I loved was the horn. nothing beats the Disney Magic Horn. So cool! (I know, I am such a kid)

On the way back to our ship we saw a couple of Pirate ships.

As we were waiting for our tenor we met up with Gina and the girls. This is Jordan staring up at our Ship.

And here is Skylar looking as cute as ever. Sporting a new hat! And new braids she got on the beach that day. She is embracing the islands. ;)

We ate at Lumière's for dinner and I believe this was the day Dad, Peggy, Brian, Dave and I went to the piano bar to relax with a nice drink. (jeez - some of these nights run together) This could have also been the night Dave and I Decided to stay up in the cabin to eat and missed the best 80's performance of my Father's life. (We are starting to become the two people who miss the best/funniest moments) :)

Grand Cayman was a beautiful and eventful day. Many things to see, I wish we could have stayed longer for a follow-up - I would have been at the beach eating some RUM cake, relaxing with a cool drink.

Next up - Cozumel - where I learned how much I stink at bargaining.

Til then - have a great night!

April 24, 2006 - A day at sea

2007-02-19T20:14:00.000-05:00

A Day at Sea

I apologize for the delay these last few weeks. I thought I would have been almost done 2006 by now. I am still on our Disney Cruise. So without further delay I wanted to put out first day at sea up here before Heroes come on (yes I am addicted to the new show).

The first day at sea was very relaxing. We took full advantage of the ship and the "Adult" swimming pool and I actually got up early and worked out at the gym they have at the front top deck of the ship. One of the best workouts I've ever experienced. You do not look at yourself in the mirror or see the person next to you. Oh no, what I was staring at while on the stationary bike was endless ocean. Gorgeous, beautiful ocean and the front bow of the boat gently aggressively cutting through the small waves below. Oh and if I remember correctly there was another cruise ship diagonal from ours several miles away. A definite peaceful scene.

After the bike went back to Dave who was still sleeping (he can sleep in still, unlike me who has the internal alarm clock that doesn't shut off).

And since my internal alarm clock went off so early that morning I took some sunrise photos which are below:

I love the horizon in these photos. It was truly a beautiful morning.

The gorgeous glow reflecting on the water.

I was taking this photo while drinking my morning coffee - oh so relaxing.

After this photo I got up and went to the gym.

Oh and then I went up to the buffet (free with the cruise) and picked out a great breakfast and trudged it back to the room to be able to eat out on the veranda. Oh did I mention these few scenes were from our veranda? OH yes no port hole. It is truly worth paying the extra money. ;)

Later in the day after much lying around and drinking much we went to out 6pm dinner at the Art Pallet Restaurant. Let me tell you this was my favorite restaurant of the cruise. There were 4 that we rotated each day and this one was by far the best. I believe (I can not remember) this was our formal dinner night.

Let me tell you about this restaurant. Not too much now I don't want to spoil it for those who decide to go on the Disney Magic. :) When you first entered you notice four paint brush pillars in the center of the room. Everything is black and white and there are all the drawings from almost every Disney movie ever made. As the night progresses and the incredible meal comes out the walls and each drawing start showing color. It starts slow at first and finally progresses to show the entire room filled with color and all the characters you know and love come to life.

I absolutely thought this was the best and most imaginative place to eat and venture to. I wish there was something like it near here to go out on a Friday date night. :)

I didn't want this one to be too long so I will stop here (especially since Heroes has started) and Continue tomorrow in Grand Cayman!

until then.

Keywest - April 23, 2006

2007-01-30T22:17:00.000-05:00

Disney Cruise - Day 2

The second day was a great beginning to a long fun and relaxing party! We only went a little way down the coast to Keywest, a place I was never at and found out was the party city of Florida. I haven't walked around the town with alcoholic beverages since I was in Vegas my first time and I was just as astonished at Keywest as I was in Vegas. I guess growing up in Pennsylvania and not having the freedom to go into a grocery store to get alcohol on a Sunday night is foreign to me, so anywhere they let you walk around freely in and out of bars with drinks is like turning 21 again.

Before deboarding, we met up with Amanda, Keith, Ava (Kaleel stayed and had a blast on the boat), Brian, Gina, Skylar and Jordan. Somewhere along the way we got separated, but it was all good - I mean we all had to get back on the ship... :)

Our ship docked at Keywest. Before heading off we explored the ship some more. This was on the top deck next to the sport area. It was a little desolate up there since we got off the ship late. Everyone else was an early riser and already out and about.

A different view of Keywest from the ship.

And yet another view.

Dave shooting hoops.

Me shooting hoops.

Let's explore.

Ava such a cutie

De boarding to explore Keywest.

Brian - "I'm probably in trouble with my wife".

Skylar with her 7 day Henna Tattoo - we all got one.

Us with Hemingway - in front of the Hemingway Museum. We didn't see any Polydactyl cats, but we sure got a cute one when we got home... Tinkerbell!

A famous bar in Keywest. There was an older version up the Street that had several thousand business cards all over the wall. I plopped one of mine in the fray.

Going back to the ship. A bit buzzed and ready to eat.

Keywest at Sunset, pulling away to "Cruise" to our next stop.

Celebrating and on to our next destination.

Beautiful Sunset.

Setting sail for a day at sea headed toward Grand Cayman.

So I lagged on photos on the day at Sea - I wanted to relax, get a drink by the pool side and not worry about getting the camera wet - so I left it (I know, I left it) in the cabin. But boy did I take it out the rest of the Cruise.

Just wait.

The Grand Cayman Post is next.

The Disney Cruise - April 22-29, 2006

2007-01-28T20:16:00.000-05:00

April 22, 2006

We had the ultimate privilege in April, to be treated to a fantastic and most memorable family vacation on a 7 night Disney Cruise. My Father and Step-mother were being VERY generous and treated us Kids and Grandkids (20 of us to be exact) to this dream vacation and then some, since they spoiled us all with Veranda's! So to say the least - if Dave and I go on another Cruise a port hole is just not going to cut it, and now that I think of it another Cruise line may not cut it. :)

I am probably going to sound like an advertisement, but let me say that Disney not only knows how to treat the kids, they know how to make you feel like a King and Queen. Dave and I were the only ones in the family crowd who did not have kids "yet" and we both absolutely recommend cruising the seas with Mickey & Minni. It was heaven. And from what I saw with my siblings who do have kids they loved dropping the kids off to play for a day as they got to catch up on some R & R.

The Teenagers in our crowd had such a great time I think I only saw them at the 6pm dinner call every night. Their "teen" night activities usually started at 10pm and didn't end until, I think 3 or 4 in the morning? Correct me if I am wrong nieces and nephews... :)

So taking 22 people onto a Disney Cruise is quite a feet, a feet my Dad and Peggy were more than happy to organize. So no one got lost in the Airport crowd we were all given matching Polo shirts, guys wore green and the women wore orange. (The women out numbered the men)

It actually was a great idea! 1. For finding everyone after we got off the plane and
2. Easy to throw on the morning of the departure since we all had to be at the airport by 5:30am? Boy it was early so to not worry about what to wear was perfect! :)

Below, our plane trip to Florida - the beginning of our Disney Adventure:

Ava, Dad & Peggy (a tongue shot)

Something about having kids on a plane can sometimes be a good thing, especially when you can get on the plane first to score this great front spacious seat. :)

Brian, Gina, Jordan oh and Josh in the one seat back.

Keith & Amanda, Ava was in the back sticking her tongue out. :p

Arrived in Florida, now waiting for the bus to Port Canaveral.

Jordan keeping Ava company as we checked in before Boarding the Disney Cruise.

MINNIE! Just a taste of what was to come on the Cruise (still waiting to board). Behind us was a replica of the Cruise ship to show us what also to expect.

...still waiting to board... Come on guys! It is DISNEY! Be happy! :) Maybe they saw "GRUMPY"

One of things I thought was great when boarding the Cruise ship was walking on. When you were to board next they asked your name and how you would like to be presented. So as music was played and as you walked across the threshold we heard over the loud speaker, "Mr. & Mrs. David Alvaro" - loved it!

Once you boarded you were to wait until your cabins were cleaned so there was a couple hours lag time in between boarding and unpacking, which wasn't bad at all because we went straight to brunch which had incredible food and then wondered the ship.

They had a welcome show on the kids deck and Skylar, Miranda and Jordan were in the fray dancing and having a blast (already)!

Dave, Brian and I were walking the upper deck when we came upon this crowd dancing to some Disney friends. Through all the crowd I was able to spot the Girls dancing it up. Here is Skylar up front and looking thrilled!

Here is Jordan being lifted by Dad. Also having a blast.

When we finally got to our cabins, Dave surprised me with a welcome gift of expensive Wine, a loving note and two wine glasses to celebrate what we hoped would be a romantic adventure, which it turned out to be just that.

Let me say, a Disney Cruise Vacation following an unbelievable Honeymoon in Hawaii - which just made me realize I have to put THAT on this BLOG!! Woops! I was so anxious to get into 2006 I neglected to show you Paradise! This will definitely happen soon.

Needless to say our first day on this Cruise was incredible, tiring, yet incredible. Our first stop in the next post - KEYWEST!

Lauren & Mark Maxwell - April 1, 2006

2007-01-21T19:31:00.000-05:00

April 1, 2006 was the first wedding of the 2006 year.

Lauren & Mark were such a fun and great couple who absolutely loved red and beer. Their Ceremony & Reception took place at Stoudt's Brewery in Adamstown, PA.

The Ceremony was in an outdoor cove in between the Restaurant and the Brewery itself.

There was one part of the Ceremony that really brought out how much fun this couple is and how they really wanted to bring their personality and vision into their Big Day. There is a Native American wedding tradition where the parents of the Bride and Groom pour a liquid into a Wedding vase which has two spouts , the Bride & Groom drink from the same vase symbolizing two becoming one Well Lauren and Mark wanted to put a new twist on this tradition, instead of using water or juice or what is normally used, they chose to fill a stein up with two different beers and drink from the stein.

I thought it was a definite new twist on a beautiful old tradition.

Below are just some of the photos I took of their big day in April.

Their color was definitely red. :)

The Stein

They were too funny!

There was little opportunity for nature photos, luckily as I scouted for a place for their formals I came upon this incredible red barn. It was right up the street from the brewery a little ways up from the antique shop area. I loved it! And they loved it enough to walk the length with me!

Instead of champagne for the toast, it was beer! I loved it.

They danced the night away.

Since I have to get through the 2006 year to catch up to the present, I didn't want to go crazy with every photo I like, so am only giving a sample.

Until next post!

A Happy New Year!

2006-12-31T16:48:00.000-05:00

I got so much accomplished today! One day from the new year and I have already started getting this house organized and cleaned up (just have to keep going). I now have about 4 more rooms to do this winter and I can relax. I so want to be able to stop thinking about the house and start thinking more about a. my business b. cooking more meals c. start trying to garden (herb garden) and d. play video games once in awhile and to just relax and know I can.

I hope someday that happens. :)

So my last entry on the 28th stated I would put those fun Christmas photos of Bootsy and Tinkerbell up on the blog, and here they are!

Well first I have to put up the photos I took for our Christmas cards. This one actually didn't make it, due to well, I forgot about it.

The Second photo below was the one I used on several friend and co-worker cards as well as the faded background on the Kitten collage Christmas card, which was used for the majority of our family this year.

Each year I like to do three to four photos so everyone gets something different. I usually take the photos I will use that year. These two ornaments happened to be from a Cousin's Christmas party we went to on December 9, 2006.

And here are the kittens! They were so much fun, and don't worry, they didn't have to wear the corny outfits for long.

I love the bow tie! I had to do it!

She was not too happy. :)

What a goofball! Looks a little drunk.

This photo just cracks me up.

Tink actually did like this little collar better than the Reindeer ears.

I wanted to try and get these photos in a more professional setting, however this didn't happen due to the lack of time from our kitchen renovation, not to mention the lack of room for my backdrop, so I took the opportunity a week before Christmas and did these really quickly on the new kitchen tile. Like the tile? I love it!

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

2006-12-28T18:01:00.001-05:00

It is December 28, 2006 and I am FINALLY getting over a horrible cough, sore throat, crappy congestion and unfortunately for my husband, my voice is coming back... :)

I am wishing you all (if anyone even, remotely looks at this blog yet) a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

We had a wonderful Christmas, with the exception of me coming down with, whatever it is I have /had. The weekend started off with our kitchen completion (well everything but one cabinet), we have a faucet people, we have a faucet!

I cleaned up the dining area, we can actually see the dining room table! And almost completely decorated for Christmas morning.

This has been the strangest, yet wonderful Christmas:
1. I/we had Christmas shopping completed December 15th, I know, a miracle.
2. Our decorations were not completely up and yet Christmas morning was better than ever (no ornaments on the tree), I know, how could I?
3. I did not bake ANY Cookies this year. I feel so unaccomplished without having done them, so I think in a couple of weeks I will, at least do some chocolate chips. I was thinking about baking "New Years" cookies, however due to this nasty cold/whatever it is, I really don't think it is a good idea to be spreading the wealth... For those of you who don't know me (which is probably everyone that looks at this), I bake an umpteen amount of cookies
every year and distribute them through out the family, friends, mailman... (you get the picture) so not doing any has been weird.
4. And, finally,We were able to see almost every family member before or on Christmas day. We usually catch my Dad & my Step-Mother (Peggy) until after New Years.

And than I get sick and have been fighting it all this week. Hoping this is not a prelude to 2007. Yikes!

This is the kittens very first Christmas so I did have some fun with photos. I will post them soon - just have to get off this laptop.

This coming January I do want to launch my new website - I am hoping by the end of January if not sooner. I am definitely switching my server service so that the transition (once the kinks are out) is smooth.

So get ready and come back more often (that is, if there are any readers) because I will be posting, many more photos and many more stories about life, business, couples I photograph, and well, hopefully an entertaining read. I also hope to get better at my grammer. Sorry for those English majors out there in blog land. ;)

Hope you all are having a most wondrous holiday and again, have a Happy, Healthy New Year!

Love, Laugh, Live

2006-10-18T20:17:00.000-04:00

Oh and here are the tongue / play shots

Bootsy

Tinkerbell

The Kids!

2006-10-18T20:06:00.000-04:00

I did a little photo shoot of my kittens experimenting with lighting and actually getting some animal photos with the light and background. Bootsy Collins and Tinkerbell were not cooperating as much I hoped they would, but I got a couple of fun shots - I mean they are my new babies after all.. ;P

Tinkerbell!

Bootsy!

Coming Soon

2006-10-18T19:55:00.000-04:00

It has been a very long time since I have written on my new blog and hopfully within the next few months this will change. I am currently working on a brand new website that will show off my new and updated wedding photos (in a timely and fun way) as well as me, being able to talk/write about my favorite photos of each Wedding, engagement, birthday and experience in photography I have had through out the months and future months. And of course if ANYONE is interested in some of the things I have to say. ;)

I have been to SEVERAL birthdays this summer - many milestones (my family are ALL SUMMER babies) and many fun and exciting weddings! So stay tuned!

First Entry

2006-08-02T07:49:00.000-04:00

This is my first entry on my new blog. It is early morning and I should get ready for work, however I wanted get this started while I thought of it. This new blog will be a new way of showing off my favorite photos I have taken as well as the stories behind them and to perhaps keep my family, friends and clients updated on my progress into the world of full-time photography.