From the Narrows

This and That

2012-01-25T23:05:00.000-08:00

We had a birthday in our house last week. This is my favorite photo of the bunch.

Two teenagers, one tween, two cats, one dog, a husband, and a photography business. Life is full. And yes, I still homeschool. And I might be a little crazy.

Project 52 begins

2012-01-06T10:49:00.000-08:00

Week one is up on my photography blog. Here is the link.
Lily Fields Photography

Sweet Shot-New Camera-Test Shots

2012-01-02T23:15:00.000-08:00

How was your Christmas? Ours was great and I was really blessed and spoiled. I received my dream camera and I am just giddy with excitement. (I actually paid for half of it, but hubby paid the other half for my Christmas present) I also just bought the body, because I had lens that would fit it and I didn't want to get a redundant lens. Here are my first practice shots with it.

Both were taken with a Canon 7D, 50mm 1.4 lens. I'm loving that creamy bokeh! I will be participating in a project 52 again this year. I will be posting at my photography blog site. I may double post for a bit, or at least link to it here. In the mean time this post is linked to Darcy's Sweet Shot Tuesday!

Have a good week and a Happy New Year! I personally am hoping this year will bring much blessings in my friends' and family's lives and less trauma and heartache.

Holiday Bokeh Party

2011-12-14T21:02:00.000-08:00

Oh boy, I am barely making this party. Life has been crazy busy, and I have had lots of computer trouble. I'll spare you all the details. I have one image for you today. My favorite ornament my girl friend gave me last year. I just love it and how it captured my year last year.

This isn't holiday bokeh, but I thought it was neat anyhow. I took this photo this week. It was frosty cold outside and bright and sunny!

I'll try to post again before Christmas.
Susan

Sweet Shot Tuesday-Edit

2011-11-08T10:30:00.000-08:00

Hey there, it's been a while since I participated in Darcy's Sweet Shot Tuesday. I'm going to share an edit I did on a photo that looked bad. Underexposed, dark badness. But it was worth saving. I started the photo in Camera Raw (using a jpg) and didn't save as so I don't have the original dark photo, but one like it to show you. So here goes.

This shows how dark it was originally.

This was after lightening it up and adjusting white balance in camera raw.

I usually always do a levels adjustment and clean up any red spots, blemishes, dark areas and such. Then I ran a Florabella action on it (and shame on me for not remembering which one it was). I know the white is blown out, but I didn't really care. I loved the light in her eyes and her expression.

Then I converted into a black and white using the duotones presets in PS. This is my absolute favorite way to turn into black and white. I love all the different color combinations available with just a click. I really like the softness of this photo.

Oh, and I am no expert in PS editing but I have come a long way!
Susan

The most dreaded holiday of the year-

2011-11-01T10:42:00.000-07:00

Halloween - I really dislike this holiday. In and of itself it speaks nothing to living a life full of joy and light and that bothers me. It has bothered me for years, as a christian homeschooling mama, trying to figure out what God would have our family do in relation to this holiday. The pendulum has swung from one end to the other. Do we celebrate it or not. Do we trick or treat, go to harvest parties, dress up or not?

Here is where I am at today - "THIS IS THE DAY THAT THE LORD HAS MADE! LET US REJOICE AND BE GLAD IN IT!" I will not turn over any day to the evil one.

And here is what we do in regards to this day - If you've been a reader for long you know how much my kids love to dress up. And any kid loves candy right?

We are very blesses to go with friends who live in a small community. This has been our yearly tradition for the last 4 years. (Because before then we didn't go trick or treating.) And frankly, after taking the little lady bug and monkey, I wish we had. A fun time was had by all.

Susan

Fall Traditions

2011-10-19T20:18:00.000-07:00

The girls had been bugging me to take them to the pumpkin patch to pick out their pumpkins. My husband suggested that we just take them to the grocery store so they can pick one our of the bins! They would have none of that. I knew I would not get out of taking them to pick their pumpkins. We've been doing it since they were little. And frankly, why should I get out of it. We live in an area of abundant farms and it would be a shame to miss out on visiting them. Really though, I love going too. I didn't have that opportunity growing up, so I want to make sure my girls have that and I want them to take their kids some day too. It's tradition. Starting with my family and passed down through the generations. At least I hope. Here are a few pictures to share our experience.

They are getting big, but that works to their advantage as their pumpkins are getting bigger too. The rule is if you can carry it out...you can take it home.

Weekend Retreat

2011-10-11T11:41:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity to go with 5 other ladies to the coast this weekend. Our friend has a family cabin on the river front about a mile from the coast.  We packed up the cars and left around 1 on Friday and returned on Sunday afternoon.  It was a perfectly peaceful weekend filled with conversation, relaxation, tons of good food, crafts and sight seeing.  We left in drizzly weather and woke up to clear skies and warm temperatures, and that is saying a lot for the Oregon Coast! 

I saw these guys and just loved the way they looked, in their wetsuits surfing in the cold temps of the north.  You couldn't pay me enough to get in that water!

We watched huge Chinook Salmon being pulled from the river.

We also watched Dory boats come in through the surf and right up onto the sand, and citified mini vans get stuck in the sand and locals help dig him out. It was hilarious!

It truly was a wonderful weekend!

New and Improved--I hope

2011-09-01T14:19:00.000-07:00

I went to my second Dr.'s visit today. Not I'm not sick, not really. It was recommended to me to go to a Functional Medicine Specialist and thankfully we have one in town. How is this different than your standard Dr.'s office visit? Glad you asked. For starters, my initial visit was a whopping 2 hours long. Yeah, you read that right. Have you ever been to a Dr.'s appointment and had direct interaction for 2 long hours? It was amazing. I'll warn you though, it is a bit more spendy than a regular doctor's visit. The reason is that they typically are not in the network of providers for most insurance companies. This Dr. disagrees with limiting a visit to just 15 minutes and compartmentalizing ailments and treating them all separately. Doesn't it make sense that a doctor look at the whole person and take everything into account before trying to treat them? Why treat (and I really mean cover up) each issue when the whole body works together. One system does not work without another system supporting or affecting it.

After my first appointment I went in for a long blood draw, meaning many vials were full by the time I left the lab. I also did some spit tests and mailed them off to a lab. I got a call for a follow up appointment when the test results were in. I just did that today. Bottom line? I'm low on everything, like really low. Remedy? I cocktail of vitamins and hormones to get me in balance again, feeling better, more energetic, improved memory, less moody, and overall able to cope with regular life with a sense of purpose and joy. It also confirmed that as young as I am I am in fact in menopause. Yep. That stage of life is officially over for me. And I am glad to know that is where I stand, instead of thinking that something was wrong with me.

If you live in my area (and if you know me you know if you do or not), I will highly recommend this doctor. Just leave a comment and I will get you contact information. If you are hypo or hyper anything go see this doctor. Please spend a little extra and get what I consider proper medical care.

Susan
PS-Sorry no pictures today.

I Heart Faces----Max!

2011-08-23T10:02:00.000-07:00

This is my Labradoodle Max and my entry for the iheartfaces pet category this week!

Birthday Fun & Pinterest

2011-08-09T15:10:00.000-07:00

Today my oldest baby turns 14. She is almost as tall as I am, and I'm 5'8". It is so weird to have a child nearly looking me in the eye. Sometimes she seems so grown up, responsible, hard working, and other times she wants to hold my hand so I can comfort her. I love this girl so much. She is so talented and I cannot wait to see how God directs these gifts He's given her.

She also very much a young girl. I have made a purposeful attempt to make sure my girls don't grow up too fast. I love that she still wants to decorate for her birthday and have fun little party favors. I love that part of party planning. And that is where pinterest.com comes in. Look at this great idea I found. So easy with such a big impact.

If you want to check out my pinterest boards, go here. Well, her friends will be showing up in an hour, so I better make sure I have all the details taken care of.
Susan

Saturday Confessions

2011-07-24T09:16:00.000-07:00

Well it is Sunday morning and the house is quiet so I thought I put up my Saturday confessions post and link it to Melissa's.

1. Friday and Saturday we helped our friends move. I'm exhausted. Moving is a lot of work as most of you know. Now they have the hard part...figuring out where it's all going to go. I don't want to move ever again. We moved into our house two years ago. I still have a stack of boxes in the corner of my living room. Want to know what's in it? Yeah, me too. ;-) I sort of know ~ I think photo albums and picture frames and such. We just have no place to put them, so they have stayed in boxes.

2. In fact, my house is a mess right now because we decided last week to swap girls in the bedrooms. So out came all their stuff. One girl is nicely put back into a room, but the other has her stuff all over the living room. Poor thing. I don't know how long it will be there. Because you all know how it goes, once you start a project, many more breed until you have about 5 before you can put the stuff all back together again.

3. No, I don't have pictures of the move or of my stack of boxes.

4. I had a photo shoot of a family of 8 on Thursday. It turned out to be a beautiful evening. I was a little scared because we already had to cancel because of the weather. Don't get me started on the weather. I'll get to that at the next point. This shoot was hard. Lot's of people are hard. Add a dog and well, you know.

5. Yesterday was a nice day. Summer may have finally arrived in the Pacific Northwest. It is such a bummer because we tend to get such a short summer season anyways. This year it will be even shorter unless the nice weather stays until October. Not holding my breath. Oh, and my previous statement about not wanting to move, that's contingent on our weather. Because last week when it was raining, I was ready to head to Arkansas!

6. And my last confession: I rarely listen to music. Only in the car. Almost never in the house. In fact I just now put music on my iphone after having the phone for a year. But I still have never listened to music on it. Head phones bug me. My ears start to ache after having them in for about 5 minutes. I don't know how people wear those for so long without their ears aching.

Hope everyone has a good week, and a good week of weather, whether it needs to be warmer in the west or cooler in the mid states. By the way, did you know it's the heat wave in the middle that is causing our unseasonably cold and we summer here in the west?

Sweet Shot-Ladybug

2011-07-18T19:17:00.000-07:00

I'm always fascinated with ladybug photos. I'm not a fan of bugs (which is an understatement), but of all of them, ladybugs are by far the cutest. I'm always trying to get a good ladybug photo. I have a couple I have taken that I have liked but these two are by far my favorite. I am hoping to enter a few photos in our county fair coming up next month and I really want to have a good macro shot.

Sweet shot-nature

2011-07-11T22:34:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I have posted to Sweet Shot at Darcy's. Today was nice and cloudy in the morning which produces a lovely filtered morning light. I took my kids to the ranch and walked down the road to capture these.

Check out more Sweet Shots here

Saturday Confessions

2011-07-09T09:42:00.000-07:00

This one is a little embarrassing. I recently got a new Mac and I decided since it has been forever that I have actually used a mouse (I previously had a laptop with a track pad) that I would buy the wireless track pad. I love it. But I think I may be overusing a touch as my index finger that does all the work is having issues-joint pain and swelling. I am pretty sure it is from using the track pad-too much. Oy!

We visited a friend of my in laws this week to see their new Welsh Pony foal. It was only two days old and the cutest little thing I think I have ever seen.

I have no idea what we are doing today. This is the first time we haven't had full weekend plans in a long time.

Summer has just started here in the Northwest. The temperatures are finally in the upper 70's with an occasional 80 degree day. Summer around here doesn't really start for me at least until 4th of July. So when I read about other parts of the country on fb who are almost done with summer and getting ready for back to school I want to stick my fingers in my ears and say "la la la la la la."

4th of July- Part 2

2011-07-05T11:32:00.000-07:00

After the parade we came home to rest up. It was a nice quiet afternoon. I went to the store to get some food to make for our picnic dinner along the river. Fried chicken fingers, corn/bean/tomato salad with chips, grapes, banana bread -it was perfect. Our large groups squeezed ourselves into a sliver of grass with our chairs and blankets. I set up the tripod and captured a few fireworks shots. I learn something about photography every time I use my camera, especially when I am trying something out of the ordinary. Next year I am going to bring my wider(kit) lens. I realized that from where we were sitting that a 50mm is just too close. I like to see fireworks within the context of where they are going off. I know, in the sky, but we were right next to the river and the colorful reflection on the water was beautiful. It was a perfect night, being with friends, eating good food, watching the fireworks boom overhead. How was your 4th? Was it exciting, or was it laid back and relaxing?

4th of July- Part 1

2011-07-05T10:54:00.000-07:00

The fourth of July starts with the obligatory small town parade. Fire trucks, classic cars, horses, tractors, can all be seen in the midst of gobs of people. My kids love it! Here are a few of my favorites from yesterday.

I Heart Faces--A touch of whimsy

2011-06-27T09:00:00.000-07:00

iheartfaces

We had a friend visit a few weeks ago, hence the blond hair you see. The girls love to dress up and go play outside. I just love this picture of them playing.

Saturday Confessions-Conference

2011-06-26T16:16:00.000-07:00

Thursday night we packed up the car and headed up north to our annual outing at the Oceanetwork Homeschool Conference. Speakers, books, and fun oh my. If you are a homeschooler and have not attended a conference I highly recommend you give it a try. It is the sole event that motivates me to keep on homeschooling the next year. It reminds me why we chose this method of educating our kids and encourages me that I CAN finish the race set before me. This year was especially neat because three of our close friends graduated their homeschool seniors. To see my friends finish this journey successfully is a blessing and encouragement to me. To know these graduates gives me a glimpse of what is possible in my own children.

Now for the confession part:

1. This is the first year we have taken the children. Jeep and I usually leave them home with grandparents. I missed that time away that we are used to, to regroup, connect and reestablish our goals together.

2. I was concerned with how the kids would do at the conference or selfishly how it would cramp my space...but overall it went well.

3. We only heard a few "I'm bored" comments.

4. The older girls surprised us with how helpful they can be and did a fabulous job serving at the conference.

5. I can't wait to go next year.

6. And in just four short years we will be up on stage like this.

Sweet shot

2011-06-22T17:33:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I have participated in Sweet Shot Tuesdays. Life has been busy and I have been spending a lot of time on my new website.

Last week I had the privilege of going on a mentor photo shoot with Anne Nunn of Anne Nunn Photographers. It is a really wonderful experience being able to shoot next to someone who is an experienced photographer. Thank you Anne for taking the time to show me the ropes. What a blessing the day was. Here are a few of my favorites of the day.

Saturday Confessions-Camp

2011-06-17T23:43:00.000-07:00

My children are at horse camp. I've come a long way as a mom. I've relaxed just a hair. It starts with the oldest. You don't let the oldest do anything. Then as they get older you realize that the oldest can now do stuff. Well, then so can the middlest and the youngest. They are lucky. They get to do stuff much earlier.

I've only spent a little bit of time worrying about them. Are they warm enough? Did they get their sunscreen on? Will they get enough food and water? Thankfully I have a spy. My friend whose kids are at the same horse camp is helping with the cooking. She'll tell me if something is goes wrong. The kids left yesterday. They come home tomorrow. It's not a long camp and for that I am grateful. Baby steps.

It has been so quiet around here. It's weird. I have a hard time finding that balance of wanting the kids to just go somewhere so it can be quiet, yet when they do I find myself in a strange place...wanting that noise back.

Well, tomorrow afternoon I get my wish.

Saturday Confessions

2011-06-05T19:05:00.000-07:00

It simply cannot happen on Saturdays.

It's been a busy week. I am looking forward to things settling down a bit. That does happen right? Friday my homeschool group put on a big used curriculum sale. We did well. It was at a new location with a new coordinator and all went smoothly. However, I am exhausted. It was a lot of work. Saturday morning started with a meeting at the ranch. I found this lovely flower there. Bachelor button or cone flower? I'm not sure. We finished the day with the grand finale radio drama performance of Little Women put on by the kids on our homeschool co-op. They did a fabulous job!

(PS-it is very hard to take photos in the evening inside a church with horrible lighting, without a flash. However I will try to appreciate this poor quality photo and remember that it is the memory it documents that counts)

Today I have done nothing worth while. I have just been on the computer, with short breaks to make coffee, cook dinner, and take some photos outside. My house is suffering because of it. Tomorrow though, I will get some cleaning done.

Melissa is bragging about her lovely summer weather and swimming. It's just not fair. Our summers don't really start until July. While it is lovely out now, the rain is returning. Go check out more Saturday confessions.

Saturday Confessions-a day late

2011-05-29T11:53:00.000-07:00

I guess confession #1 should be that I can't seem to do my confession post on the right day!

On Friday we went with our homeschool Co-Op to Wildlife Safari. It is a drive through wildlife park. I managed to get a whole lot of pictures of animals, but very few of the people on our trip. That happens quite frequently with me.

My birthday is on Tuesday. Another year older. This seems like an appropriate photo for this.

I'm truly getting tired of the rain. Really!

I signed up for twitter a few weeks ago. I am trying to get the hang of it, but I don't think I like it that much. I feel like I am viewing ongoing private jokes/conversations between people. I don't have the full story. Twitter makes no sense to me at all. Not sure how long I will last there.

This was the ugliest animal we saw on Friday. Bonus points for anyone who knows the name of this ugly rodent (hint).

These are foul creatures, starting with their grooming habits.

This was by far the cutest little monkey on the trip!

A little confession, a little of my opinion of animals. There you have it. Hope you all have a great week.
Susan

Saturday Confessions (um on Thursday?)

2011-05-19T21:23:00.000-07:00

Yeah, I am either late for last week or early for Saturday. I guess I will choose to be early! That is better right?

Ramblings:

*My husband broke out the big bucks and bought me an iMac for my birthday. My laptop was dying and it was getting so hard to edit photos on it. Plus I just knew that at any given moment it would be a goner right in the middle of something important. So, Happy Birthday to me...and Happy Anniversary...and Merry Christmas!

*The end of the school year is quickly approaching. Programs and recitals are scheduled...summer is trying to make it's appearance with horse camps, family camps and spending time outdoors. Books sales and homeschool conferences beckons us to think about next year. It's a busy and exciting time.

*I will have my first high schooler in the fall! That deserves an exclamation point.

*I just finished my third senior photo shoot. I absolutely love senior shoots. They are so much fun! I am slowly working towards this. This is my first public announcement and it makes me a little nervous. Just remember it's a work in progress OK?

*What's a post without a photo right?

*Oh, and one more thing. It hopefully won't be too long before images like this will be available for purchase in an etsy shop!

PS-I worked really hard in the garden today. I got my vegetables all planted. I'm so glad, because not only will I have vegetables this summer, but this was all my one and only yearly work in the yard day and it is now over. Time to go recover.

Saturday Confessions

2011-04-30T17:08:00.000-07:00

1. Yeah, there are problems with this photo, mottled light being the worst offense, but I am sooooo glad I have it. Look how adorable my girls were 7+ years ago!

2. I am eating the rest of a chocolate bunny from Easter right now.

3. My house is still a mess. The paint came out last week and the girls claim they aren't finished painting, so why put it all away. Yep, it's on our dining room table.

4. I hate going to the post office and the bank. You too?

5. School is almost done for the year and I don't feel like we did enough. I guess I always feel like that.

6. I know God does amazing things but I am always surprised when I hear of it.

7. It was much colder during riding lessons this morning and I wasn't dressed for it. So now I'm cold. Still.

8. I've been so busy that I can only take one day or week at a time. It frustrates me but if I don't then I get totally overwhelmed.

9. I took my first major step into my business. I secured my assumed business name for my state. I am excited. But nervous too.

Susan

Sweet Shot-One cool Senior

2011-04-25T23:01:00.000-07:00

Last Friday I had the privilege of taking senior photos of one cool guy. This was actually part two of his senior shoot. The first set was taken in November. I love this shoot because it was more artsy in nature. This totally fit his personality. So have a peak and tell me what you think.

Saturday Confessions

2011-04-16T12:08:00.000-07:00

Is this not the cutest picture?!!!!!
Confession 1: I know I'm biased...this is my sweet middle child.

2: For confessions I will be posting old photos from our PC. These are the photos I almost lost twice. Yep twice. And I still have not backed them up or printed them.

3. The reason I am using the PC is that my trusty little Macbook is getting old and not quite so trusty anymore. It has a birthday next month...5 years. That is like 80 in human years. The battery died...as in no longer able to be charged and it cost $120 for a new battery. This is the 2nd battery I've worn out. I'm supposed to be getting a nice big iMac desktop soon. I'm still waiting.

4. I worked really hard the other night on a new header for a website I'm trying to make and I didn't save it and the cord came out of the laptop therefore shutting the whole thing down and losing everything I made. Grrr....I think I have issues with saving and backing up. I will never learn.

5. My house is a total wreck. Seriously people. I have a good excuse though. We bought shelving from IKEA several months ago and hubby is putting them up in the girls room, to contain the enormous amount of junk they accumulate. So everything is in the living room during this process. It is a slow process.

6. Skype: Have you tried it yet? I did for the first time and got to talk/hear/see this lady. I've known Melissa through the blog world for 5 years. My girls (the oldest mainly) chat with hers on gmail. There is something to be said with hearing someones voice.

7. I think I have confessed enough. I think this might be my favorite link-up. Maybe the Catholics have it right. Confession is good for the soul!

Susan

Saturday Confessions

2011-04-09T13:04:00.000-07:00

I decided to link up with Melissa's Saturday Confessions.

1. Our whole family is taking horse back riding lessons on Saturday mornings. Today was the first day. I can't tell you what that did to my post birthing hips.

2. I came home with a massive headache. I think it is a side effect of this dumb prednisone I have been on. Oh my goodness, that stuff is nasty. Stay away from it. So many side effects. Cramps, hives, headaches and general not feeling good feelings. (yep, I know that was not a proper sentence)

3. My kids are learning to write using the IEW method. I wish I learned to write that way when I was in school. They know so much more about writing than I ever did.

4. It's been a tough couple of weeks. Between poison oak, trying to heal from it, coming off prednisone and the horrible tragedy my friend has gone through, I just want normal back.

5. Lastly, I'm getting old. My birthday is coming up and a week ago I forgot how old I was. Literally could not remember. A young friend took some pictures of me a couple of weeks ago (which is where I got poison oak) and I just got the copies today. I love them. Really. But I cannot help notice how much I am aging. Graying hair and wrinkles. I'm just not sure how I feel about that.

Sunday thoughts

2011-04-03T22:37:00.000-07:00

This picture has nothing to do with this post but it puts a smile on my face as I have not seen this picture or these little girls in a long time. This was Sept 2003. They were 2, 4 and 6.

Last weekend started with much excitement as I had the opportunity of taking wedding photos with my friend Emily. It was a joy to meet her family and be in the presence of such a beautiful wedding ceremony. And I got to do something I loved.

I came down with the most horrible case of poison oak from a jaunt to a park to take photos last week. By the end of the weekend I was miserable.

Tuesday morning I was headed to the doctors to see about getting some medication for this poison oak. It was all over my neck and face and around my nostrils. I was not a pretty sight. Before my appointment my friend call with some horrible news.

Our good friend's brother committed suicide. He lived with them. I can't go into details but believe me when I say that it was absolutely horrific. I am heart broken for them, for what their family is and will be going through for quite some time.

This last week has been a daze...trying to figure out how best to help this family. How to pray. How to keep going on with the mundane. And do you know what has driven me the most nuts about life? Facebook and Twitter. It is drivel. Pure twaddle. People are hurting, people I am close to, and people you are close to (because we all know someone going through a tough time) and yet we talk about what we ate for lunch and how much sleep we did or didn't get. I know mundane is fine, good even...but right now it just feels wrong.

It's been a hard week. Please pray for my friend if you think of it. They really need a lot of it right now.

Thanks,
Susan

Sweet Shot-Super Moon

2011-03-22T08:48:00.000-07:00

So the other night we had this big glorious moon. Did you see it? The area I live in can be such a drag sometimes., being cloudy when I don't want it to be. That is the way it was during our super moon. I so wanted to capture it in all its big, bright, cratered detail. So I check my darkness app on my iphone to see when the moon shall rise. I get in my car to go hunt down the moon. After driving a few minutes I realize that while I can see it's glow, I was not going to see it's sharp detail. So I head back home and longingly stare out the window, hoping that the clouds would clear. Finally at about 11:30 I step outside to have a look and there it was overhead, with cloud cover cleared away. There was a huge glow around it. Magnificent. Here is what I got. I am so happy!

I'm adding this to Darcy's Sweet Shot this week. Head here to see more wonderful photos.

Sweet Shot---Sweet baby!

2011-03-07T22:41:00.000-08:00

Yes, two newborns in a week. One thing I am learning is that shooting newborns is really hard. They are so unpredictable and their comfort level is so important. It is just hard. Plus I don't have all the necessary gear, specifically lighting. Anyhow, I did get a few that I liked.

Sweet Shot Tuesday---Sweet Baby Girl

2011-03-02T22:45:00.000-08:00

Yesterday a baby girl was born. Remember the maternity photos I did last month? I had the privilege of visiting Mama in the hospital just a couple hours after baby was born to take some photos. I have two favorites, well, maybe four. Here they are

(10 perfect toes!)

(Big brother meets baby sister)

(A sweet moment)

I heart Faces--anything but faces

2011-03-01T18:36:00.000-08:00

Big brother meeting baby sister for the first time today.

Scripture and a Snapshot--Moon

2011-02-26T23:49:00.000-08:00

It was really interesting looking up verses about the moon. It went from how God created the moon to give light and that all the light(sun, moon, stars) He created was to give glory to Him, to the moon will be like blood and it will no longer give light, and finally to this verse:

I think this one is my favorite.
Susan
PS-about the shot...we had a full moon last week. I've been trying and trying to get a good moon shot. I was cold and sick, but couldn't pass up an opportunity to try. I went outside, adjusted my camera, didn't even put it on a tripod and got this. Boy was I excited to get the craters.

Sweet Shot-Tulips

2011-02-21T23:00:00.000-08:00

I love tulips. Like Love Them! I don't often treat myself to flowers. My husband doesn't bring them very often, but that is ok. I figure if I want them, I can just go buy some. I always try to buy at least one bunch of tulips when they are in season. This year, I might splurge a little more. Trader Joe's carries them for $4.99 for 8 tulips.

So I played around today with this bunch of tulips and this is my favorite.

I heart faces-cell phone challenge

2011-02-20T23:36:00.000-08:00

My entry for Iheartfaces comes from my cell phone. I used the instagram app for this picture.

I just finished knitting this hat and wanted to take a picture of my middle girl. My goal was to show a little of the hat and a little of the most amazing eyelashes. She is so lucky!
Susan

Sweet Shot---More sheep!

2011-02-14T22:39:00.000-08:00

I can't help it. I am smitten with these sheep. Maybe because I see myself in them. I wonder why they seem to blindly follow each other, when it seems as if there is not rhyme or reason to where they are going. Do you find yourself blindly following the wrong thing? I am reminding myself that when I don't know where to turn for answers I need to turn to the one who carries all the answers in the palm of His hand. The beginning and the end. The Alpha and Omega. The One who makes the seas roar and the winds blow. He knows all and will impart to me the wisdom I need to carry on.

I know this post doesn't totally relate to this picture, but I knew this was the sweet shot I wanted to post and I had this though on my mind after BSF tonight.
Susan

More Sweet Shots here:

Sweet Shot---Sheep

2011-02-07T23:29:00.000-08:00

I drive by this field of sheep twice a week. In fact I drive by several fields of sheep. This just happens to be just to the right of the road in my last post. My kids know me now to just pull over to the side of any road in order to get my sweet shot. Last week there were many sweet little baby lambs lying in the field. When I pulled over they all got up to move away. They were unsure of this stranger coming towards them. I just loved watching them. And I am finding that I love photos of sheep. Enjoy these:

More sweet shots here:

Scripture and a Snapshot-Lighted Path

2011-02-05T23:18:00.000-08:00

It is time for this weeks Scripture and a Snapshot. I really love this project. Finding a photo and relevant scripture to go with it helps me to focus on God, to give thanks for the gifts He has given me, and to appreciate his creation. It's worship.

My girl and horse

2011-02-04T19:28:00.000-08:00

My girl has always loved horses. Her very little experience with them when she was much younger showed us how confident and sure of herself she was around them. It is as if she was meant to live on a ranch surrounded by these large beautiful creatures. Last year we were fortunate enough to find a local youth ranch that exists to bring child and horse together. They make it easy for families like ours to afford lessons.

She began last summer as a ranch hand. You know a person loves horses when they love their every smell and don't mind getting dirty. Lots of camps and chores later she has worked her way up to a junior wrangler. This winter she is participating in a horse and me program in which she is paired with a horse and learning proper care and training techniques, as well as some riding skills. The horse she was paired with scared us in the beginning as she was quite skittish. It did not take long for a bond to form. I am amazed at the skills she has learned already and look forward to what more she will acquire over the next several years, because this is a big part of our life now. And you know what? I don't mind all the driving because I love these horses too and I love seeing my girls gain confidence and being a part of something they love so much. This beats being a soccer mom any day. You can just call me the horse mom!

Sweet Shot---Me or the bee?

2011-01-31T22:00:00.000-08:00

Have you ever taken a self portrait? Other than taking a picture of myself in a mirror so that you see me with the camera in hand, I have not taken a self portrait. I guess that would be more of a self snapshot. I know there are people who take amazing self portraits. I wonder how they do it. It is quite hard. Not only does one need a tripod or some other sturdy local for your camera, but you need to utilize the self timer or a remote clicker (what is the technical name?) I only have my timer to rely on. But technical stuff aside, that isn't the hardest part. I didn't have anyone posing me. No one told me how to stand, sit or where to place my hands. Not only did I need to get my camera settings right, but I needed to get ME right. I set up in the back yard. I am so thankful for the old worn playhouse in the back. It was the perfect backdrop. The light was great today. I was showered, dressed, and ready. I'd take a picture, check it, repose, take, check...on and on until I felt like I got at least one photo that I liked. I desperately hoped no one was looking out their window wondering what on earth I was doing. It is definitely a whole new experience being behind the camera and in front of it at the same time! You should try it sometime. So, want to see?

Two things I have noticed...I am looking more and more like my mother, and I am really going gray.
See more sweet shots here:

PS---the bee. I am so thrilled to have a 60mm f2.8 macro lens. I am loving it. Here is what I captured today while on a walk with my husband.

Scripture and a Snapshot---Rainbow!

2011-01-29T22:25:00.000-08:00

I saw the most glorious bright rainbow on Friday. You should have seen me running to my car to get my camera, hoping I wouldn't slip and fall in the mud. I didn't have time to change lens and adjust settings. I knew that these are fleeting, there one minute gone the next. I was wishing for a wide angle lens. This was just a portion of a full rainbow. We don't see very many full rainbows around here. I was glad to have a photo for this weeks scripture and a snapshot.
Susan

Sweet Shot---Baby Bump

2011-01-24T22:58:00.000-08:00

Sunday was a sweet young mama's baby shower. She has a little boy who is one and now is preparing for the arrival for her sweet baby girl. It was so fun showering her with love and gifts for the baby. It was also a joy to take her outside and get a few shots of that baby bump.

For more sweet shots, go here:

I Heart Faces--Innocent Wonder

2011-01-23T22:18:00.000-08:00

I'm entering this photos in iheartfaces link up this week. I think it fits. I love his expression.

I Heart Faces---Smile!

2011-01-10T10:29:00.000-08:00

I thought I'd enter my first attempt at a newborn photo session in the smile category at iheartfaces this week. This is my friends sweet baby girl that was born on Sunday last week. She was 6 days old when I took this.

Sweet Shot-Newborn Sweetness

2011-01-08T21:53:00.000-08:00

My friend just had a sweet baby girl. I begged her to let me take newborn pictures. Today I went to her house with high hopes of capturing something similar to all the lovely newborn portraits I see all over the web...the ones on all those pro photo blog/websites. Well, I didn't quite get what I was hoping for. This little girl was oh so precious. However, as soon as I unwrapped her in her slumber, she woke up and would have nothing to do with me wanting to take pictures of her. It seemed she cried every time I pointed the camera her way. She wanted her binkie, and as soon as she fell back asleep we'd take the binkie out and within seconds she was crying again. So I didn't get to try all the different poses and looks I was hoping for. I had limited time today and I didn't want her to be in distress. It was a great experience and I learned a lot. I did struggle with the lighting, getting my exposure right and avoiding shadows. But there are just a few gems in the bunch. Here they are:

Sweet Shot-fashion shoot

2011-01-03T22:47:00.000-08:00

I took my friends sweet daughter out for a mini photo shoot on Friday. She had the cutest outfit on. I love how well it looks in the foliage. We've had a break on the rain and the winter light is fabulous.

What's your sweet shot?

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T16:20:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was one of the funnest New Year's eve celebrations we've had as a family. We went to the snow! I grew up taking lots of family trips to the snow. I skied all through my teenage and young adult years. I love it. Sadly the outrageous prices have deterred our family from being able to enjoy this winter activity. I think for years I felt like if we couldn't ski there was no point in going to the snow. Can you believe that my children have never had a trip to the snow and have never sledded? Nope, not until yesterday. We picked up a friend and drove up the mountain. It was a very cold day and we had to put chains on the car but skies were clear and beautiful.

We all had so much fun! What a rush! See for yourself~

Yep, there I am...I did put the camera down (not in the snow, around hubby's neck) so I could take a few runs down the hill. It was a great way to ring in the new year!
Susan

Sweet Shot---Special Visit

2010-12-27T23:06:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago I had some special visitors from the blog world. I love when real life and blog life collide. It is such a special thing. If you haven't experienced it, I highly recommend meeting a friend from your blogging community.

I met Marsha about 5 years ago from when we were both at homeschoolblogger.com. I think we had both recently started blogging then. We had something immediately in common in that we both had three children, my girls and her boys. But even more so, we are both half Korean, Christian, homeschooling mamas!

I met Marsha in real life last year when she came to visit her sister Christine, who happens to live about two hours from me. This time they both came to my house. I got to meet Marsha's sweet boys and Christine's two little cutie pies again.

Here are a few photos of our visit. My sweet shot happens to be cute Miss E, Christine's daughter.

As you can see we have similar taste in camera bags! I don't have a picture of mine, but we have similar taste in camera strap covers too!

Oh and one final picture:

Merry Christmas! ~2010

2010-12-24T10:24:00.000-08:00

Then the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people."

Luke 2:10

Merry Christmas Friends!

Susan

Scripture and a Snapshot---Sheep

2010-12-18T23:56:00.000-08:00

I've been seeing a lot of sheep lately and have wanted to get a good photo of them. I didn't think much of this shot until I was searching for a photo for my Scripture and a Snapshot entry this week. This one jumped out at me. I love the verse...it reminds me that no matter how far I stray, and hopefully I won't, that Jesus is always ready to go get me. He loves me that much! And how fitting this week as we prepare to celebrate that wee babe that was born in a manger, for me. For you!
Have a great week!
Susan

Vistors!

2010-12-15T21:26:00.000-08:00

This picture has nothing to do with this post, but I can't seem to post without a picture these days. That is a good thing right?

This little Santa was on our tree when I was a little girl. Several years ago I asked my mom if I could take him home. I just love his skinny legs and big plastic head.

Tomorrow I am having some special visitors over to my house. I am so excited. I'm looking forward to meeting Marsha's boys. Coffee, talking, taking pictures...that is what is on the agenda tomorrow. Oh and hopefully lots of laughing!

Susan

Scripture and Snapshot---Light!

2010-12-11T22:40:00.000-08:00

I am having so much fun with lights this year. Last year my camera was pretty new and my skills pretty slim so I could not figure out how to get that lovely bokeh. Now, it is all I can do. I even bought candy canes and whip cream so I can copy Darcys lovely example of festive bokeh. So here is my contribution to this weeks scripture and a snapshot.

Susan

Holiday Bokeh!

2010-12-09T21:33:00.000-08:00

Darcy is having a bokeh party. Here is my attempt at it. This was just so fun. I knew I wanted to try the shape bokeh and I am really happy with it.

Sweet Shot---Trees

2010-12-06T22:43:00.000-08:00

Every week I drive by this grove of trees. I always admire the way they look. I like the rows. Last week, the lighting was right and I spontaneously pulled over, rolled down my car window, stuck my camera out and clicked away. This one was my favorite.

Saturday we went to cut down our Christmas tree. Here is my precious family. My girls are getting so big. I don't think I have many photos of Jeep with his girls. Yes, I am missing. Someone has to take the photos. But don't worry...I have proof that I do exist in this family!

It's a good thing I gave my daughter a camera. Now I can get in some photos!

Go here to see more sweet shots!

Sweet Shot--Nature

2010-11-29T23:05:00.000-08:00

Going to California for Thanksgiving weekend gave me the opportunity to photograph some new things. It made me happy. Here are a few of my favorites!

The Christmas Card Search

2010-11-25T22:33:00.000-08:00

Every year about this time my mind goes in circles about what to do for our Christmas card. The choices are many: photo or no photo, kid photo or family photo, letter or no letter, hand made or store bought. Then if I decide on a photo, which I always do, the choices move to what to wear. If I had a ton of money I'd go buy everyone coordinating outfits. But as it stands, I usually have to make due with what we have or find something really cheap for 3 or 5 people.

Here is proof that Christmas cards plague me every year. I found a post I wrote in 2005. Yeah, can you believe I have been blogging since 2005 (October to be exact).

This year I have a plan. And it involves several things. The first being Shutterfly. Have you been to their website lately? Wow, they have a ton of choices in cards. This card may just be my favorite. It has the traditional red and green colors, space for three photos, it says "Merry Christmas", and I can write a short and sweet letter on it! Do you write Christmas letters? Do you like receiving them?

The second part of my plan is to have a young talented photographer in the making take our family photo. The date was all set, the outfits picked out, the location chosen. Then it rained. :-[

I am hoping for a weather break after we return from our Thanksgiving holiday so we can get a family photo. But if not, I have a back up plan. I took a few photos of my girls this weekend and I think I have one that I could be satisfied with. (My perfectionist ways are growing in the area of photography:-).

First a couple of out takes for fun!

I am going to go pick out a template for this photo at Shutterfly just to be ready in case we do not get the family photo I am hoping for.

So, what are your Christmas Card traditions, or lack there of?
Susan

PS...I have not ordered from Shutterfly before. Their selection is huge and their prices competitive. Shutterfly is offering bloggers 50 free cards for writing a blog post about their holiday cards and linking to their website.

Sweet Shot-Vineyard

2010-11-23T21:15:00.000-08:00

I was afraid I was not going to have a sweet shot this week. Last week I was so busy finishing up school before Thanksgiving and getting ready for our trip to see family. Well, we are here...with family and today I went for a short drive to get a few photos of the vineyards that surround this Northern California area. Here are two of my favorites.

Happy Thanksgiving friends and thank you all for your continued encouragement and sweet words. I appreciate them.
Susan

Sweet Shot---Mushrooms

2010-11-15T18:05:00.000-08:00

My girls take horseback riding lessons during the week. At the location I was able to go for a walk on the property and found these amazing mushrooms.

Which one is your favorite?

Sweet Shot---Senior

2010-11-07T22:15:00.000-08:00

I've had another wonderful opportunity to photograph a senior. I think I really like senior shoots. They are so much fun! I realized the other day that i met him when he was 14, just one year older than my now oldest girl. I know time will fly and it won't be long before I am doing my own daughters senior pictures. Anyhow, I would have never in a million years guess that I would be taking this wonderful young mans senior portraits. What a privilege it was. This young man is a musician and artsy and hip so I knew that a more urban feel would be appropriate.

Linking up with Darcy's Sweet Shot Tuesday!

Sweet shot---

2010-11-01T23:43:00.000-07:00

Sweet shot Tuesday is back! It was a fabulous month at Darcy's with the30 days to a better photographer series, but I admit I missed SST.

Here are a few photos from our recent Cider Squeeze party we attended. This first one is my favorite. There is nothing like the fresh pour of cider. The second photo is about half of the total amount of cider we made...over 100 gallons. The third photo, a press in action.

Show Your Skills

2010-10-31T22:46:00.000-07:00

I decided to join in Amanda's Show your skills party at Everyday Elements this week. I haven't done this before because well, I didn't have much skills, but I am finally starting to feel a little more comfortable in PSE. At least I can do a little more than run an action!
Here is the before photo:

After:

I tried to adjust the white balance in camera raw. Adjusted levels, hue and saturation, eyes, then ran PW's Sunshine action. I don't know how much better it is. Let's see what Amanda says!
Susan

Scripture and a Snapshot

2010-10-31T11:42:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we had the pleasure of attending an apple cider squeeze, which I mentioned in the previous post. The picture is of two little girls pushing wheel barrow full of apple left overs that needed to be hauled to where the bend in the road is, and over to the right some, then dumped into a ditch. It is heavy! It was so cute to watch these little girls work so hard to push this heavy load.

See more scripture and snapshots at Katies! Click the button.

Apples

2010-10-29T20:17:00.000-07:00

Oh joy of joys I am so looking forward to tomorrow. Our dear friends make cider presses and tomorrow we get to join in on a huge cider squeeze party. The kids have a blast helping, hot soup for lunch, and at the end of the day delicious fresh squeezed apple cider. Last year was our first experience making cider and it really is such a blast. Here is my post from last year. You can bet that I will be taking lots of photos.

My First Semi Real Photo Shoot

2010-10-21T22:13:00.000-07:00

Meaning, not my kids, and of someone I know, so the pressure is sort of off.

I'm addicted. I don't think photography will ever not be a part of my life again.

My dear friend who is homeschooling her three girls is graduating her first child. It is an exciting time for them and I am privileged to observe them. It is also a privilege to take her senior photos. What a beautiful young lady she is. Here, see for yourself.

Love Your Shot-Leaf

2010-10-14T20:45:00.000-07:00

We have a Sycamore tree in our front yard. It is about 60 years old. It's huge. It's leaves are huge. I love this tree. If anything happened to it I would cry. The leaves are slowly floating to the ground. I picked this one up yesterday and held it out. The sun was going down and I noticed that if I held the leaf in just the right position I could get a sun flare. I sharpened using MCP sharpening action.
Canon Rebel XS, f2.8, ISO 400, 1/250

What to do with these photos?

2010-10-11T23:42:00.000-07:00

Other than link up with Darcy's manual shoot link up party! These are all shot in manual with my Canon rebel XS and 50mm 1.4 lens. These are SOOC

f 2.8, 1/125, ISO 800 (not sure why I had the ISO so high)

f 2.8, 1/160, ISO 400

f 2.8, 1/200, ISO 400

Scripture and a Snapshot-fruit vs thorns

2010-10-09T23:16:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking about fruit lately...the spiritual kind. I'm wondering if my fruit looks more like this.

Scripture and a Snapshot

2010-10-02T23:40:00.000-07:00

I saw the most beautiful sky this evening. Even my daughter who was at home saw it and ran out to take pictures. I can't wait to see what she captured.

Click on over to see more scripture and snapshots!

Middle Girl

2010-10-02T22:07:00.000-07:00

This evening I spent time with my middle girl taking her photos. I didn't want her feeling left out. I am so glad I did.

Love That Shot---Favorite Faces!

2010-09-30T20:28:00.000-07:00

Well this is tough because I have lots of favorite faces, starting with my three beautiful daughters. But in order to comply with this link-up I will share my most recent favorite shot of one of my favorite faces! That's a mouth full!

What I love about this picture is how her smile goes all the way to her eyes! This is my oldest. At 13 she is also my first teenager. She has grown up so much in the last year, it is sad and exciting to see her leave childhood behind.

I prefer a more natural editing style (that is code for I don't know much about editing yet! ;-)). I used Everyday Elements "In a Hurry" action and cropped in slightly.
Susan

My Teen

2010-09-27T22:48:00.000-07:00

I have a teenager. Wow! In honor of my new 13yo daughter I decided to take some more formal photos of her (rather than the snapshots around the house). These are the results of her photo shoot.

I was quite pleased. I have no idea which ones I will print for displaying. (I was also practicing for a senior shoot---my first of someone else---hope I can pull it off!)

See more sweet shots here:

Harvest Moon

2010-09-23T16:46:00.000-07:00

In our science co-op two of the classes are doing Astronomy and I happen to be teaching grades K-3. Last night was the Harvest Moon, the brightest the moon will be until 2029. Not only that, last night was the closest that Jupiter will be to Earth until 2022. I captured both in my camera. I decided to use the technique of taking fireworks photos and it worked great. Last night I sat outside in my jammies with my tripod and camera and watched the clouds pass by the moon. I loved it. So here is what I did.
Camera on manual setting. ( Canon Rebel XS)
ISO 200
f 5.0
focal length 109mm
Shutter--bulb

Jupiter is the little dot of light in the lower right corner.

The glow of the moon on the clouds was spectacular.
f5.6
ISO200
focal length 171.0mm
bulb

Photography fix

2010-09-22T22:32:00.000-07:00

I took my camera today and I am so glad I did. Since I fall in the beginning photographer category I have just been chomping at the bit to get that cliched train tack photo shoot. Our piano lessons location has major road work, so a detour was necessary this morning. And I am so glad because we got to cross over a train track that was a bit more remote.

Here is my first shot, although this actually isn't on the track.

Ok, that wasn't on the track either. (Oh, and would you look at that smile! She got her braces off!)

There's the track!

So, they didn't turn out quite like what was in my head, but this was spontaneous and fun anyways. I'll be back train track!

Sweet shot---Tree stump

2010-09-21T21:13:00.000-07:00

I thinking I might be stretching it here as far as sweet shots go. I actually really like this photo. What I find interesting is that there are branches already growing on top of the stump. This Hawthorn tree was cut down this summer. It is now time to plant a new tree or two. We would like a nice fast growing, but not too big shade tree and we are in zone 6 in the Pacific Northwest. Do you have a tree suggestion?

I Heart Faces---Smirk

2010-09-20T23:04:00.000-07:00

This weeks challenge is smirk. I think this qualifies!

Tired already!

2010-09-20T22:55:00.000-07:00

This photo has nothing to do with this post. I just can't seem to write without a photo anymore. That is a good thing right? I took this on our Labor Day camping trip.

So the rule about summer is that you are supposed to have fun, enjoy the sun, relax, then get ready for a nice year of homeschooling. Right? Right?

You are NOT supposed to be so busy you cannot think straight, have a ton of planning to do that you cram in somewhere, get started with your head spinning, and wonder how on earth you are going to make it through the year.

Yep, that is me this year. Life has changed. I have an 8th grader, a 6th grader and a 3/4 grader. My 8th grader has real big kid work to do this year. Oh my, I'm just scared to death that she won't be able to handle it. And you know what, if she can't others will know because we are in a Co-Op this year. Yikes. My 6th grader will plug along nicely. She has been easy that way, although needs a little push here and there to keep her going. She gets distracted easily. My youngest has had a tough start and this is her year to catch up. She is the one I worry the most about. I wonder if I can do all for her that she needs from a teacher. This truly is a scary year for me. And it is just the beginning.

You know how you have a problem and you sort of ask God to help you with it? And I say sort of because you know you need help but sort of don't want to do anything about it. Well, I think that my busy year and the priorities of my family, and especially with teaching the girls is Gods way of answering my sort of prayer. Yes, I am going to reveal...He is keeping me off the computer. I just don't have time people! And I kind of like it that way.

So thank you LORD for being gentle and kind and providing a way out of my desire of spending way too much time on the computer. And please help me to be the kind of wife, mother, and teacher that I need to be for my family, and to prioritize according to your will, and to allow those things back into my life that have the most meaning, like relationships and hobbies I truly love. Amen.

Susan

First Day---

2010-09-13T22:38:00.000-07:00

Today was our first day of school. I didn't have high expectations and I think that was a good thing. My main goal was to introduce the kids to their books, show them their assignment book and install their math on the computer. Teaching Textbooks...life saver. I already love this program. I love that I will not have to teach them math. (Not because I don't want to...well, I don't want to...but because I am incompetent at teaching math). Every year I have the girls draw a self portrait and sign their name on it. It's a neat tradition. They decorated their assignment books. This is a new thing for us this year. I think I am going to love it. Yeah, I'll share...

Folders with the three brads, page dividers and assignment sheets from Donna Young. Make lots of copies of this. Each subject has their own section...fill out the boxes with a days worth of lesson material until the book is done. (between 32-36 weeks usually) The whole year is planned out. In the front of the folder you will want a Course of Study. This lists the courses and materials used for the child. Each child gets their own planner with their subjects planned out for the year. And you will need one of these for checking off what has been done each day. And if you are totally confused go here. This eliminates the whole process of planning out each week, then erasing it or writing over it because you missed a day. That part of scheduling/planning in the homeschool has always baffled me. Now, I think I have found the solution and I look forward to seeing how it works this year.

Each girl gets a book basket. This contains their books and binders they need for school, as well as pencil boxes. Last year I bought plastic file boxes but they didn't work. Something about a lid deterred them from ever putting their books away. Not only that, binders didn't fit.

This is our average homeschool table. Messy!

Yes, the girls made me ring the school bell. Stickers for decorating their folders. Bruised apple, because that is what teachers get on the first day of school right? And the much needed Starbucks. I'm convinced that the reason our school went well is because of that coffee/donut run I made this morning on honor of our first day of school!

How did your day go? Did you start school today too?
Susan

Antique Fair! (sweet shot)

2010-09-12T22:14:00.000-07:00

What fun! One of my favorite things to do is browse around our local antique fair that occurs every September. I get up early, park at my friends house (lucky me, I've got connections!) and walk around in antique bliss, for most of the whole day. Some years I meet a friend, others I go by myself. Usually my family catches up with me later in the day and we walk around together. It's a blast I tell you. Here are a few of my favorite things.

The old typewriters are just so cool.

Have you seen these carts used as coffee tables? What a neat idea. This one was way out of my budget however.

Absolutely the cutest headbands. These would make great photo props. Love them. I look at the price tag though and think, hey I can make these. Thankfully I have the photo to remind me of what they look like. I have a Senior portrait session and think this would look great in her hair.

Ok, these adorable pumpkins are definitely on the to do list. So easy too!

A series of really neat old cameras. I know nothing about them. But I stand in awe of how far we've (I mean they who are smarter than I) have come.

I inadvertently started collecting these. Now I can't seem to get enough. I came home with 4 of them today.

Have you been to an antique fair lately? Love them or hate them?

Remember!

2010-09-11T17:07:00.000-07:00

sweet shot-dead beauty

2010-09-07T09:12:00.000-07:00

We had a great Labor day weekend. Our family went camping with our small group. Four families, with 13 children in total swam in a lake, ate, talked, smore'd, played games, and nearly froze in the 32 degree overnight temps. I found this neat dead shrub on the shore of the lake. Here is my sweet shot for this week.

I set up my tripod to get this shot, and unfortunately forgot to adjust my aperature correctly, so what I have is an overexposed not quite sharp photo. Live and learn. I still like the shot even if it isn't perfect. For more sweet shots go here:

Sweet shot-raiding my neighbors garden for new specimens

2010-08-31T14:08:00.000-07:00

I've run out of interesting flowers. I had to resort to going into my neighbors yard to find something pretty to photograph. Here are a few of my favorites.

For more sweet shots go here:

Sweet shot---sunflower

2010-08-23T22:47:00.000-07:00

Life is busy. In the midst of all that is going on: family visits, preparing for school, anticipating a camping trip, picking a paint color for the outside of the house, I am trying to make time to take a photo everyday. I have a challenge going on with my friend. It's just 30 days of taking photos. We decided that doing a 365 project is a little too overwhelming, even though deep down, I would still like to do that. So our challenge is take a photo every day for 30 days, (and you know what, I still can't do that consistently). I find it hard to find something to photograph every single day, that and life is busy. Oh yeah, I said that already. Ok, enough rambling. Here is my photo from today.

See more sweet shots here:

Bird Houses

2010-08-19T09:56:00.000-07:00

I love bird houses. Not necessarily for the outside, or for the birds, but for decorating with inside my home. I love the cottage-y look they can have. I found one this weekend that I thought was perfect, made from recycled wood, in a cottage white, with a yellow top. Even more perfect is the five little holes representing the five people in my family, and the old square head nails.

This was taken at:
50mm
ISO 200
f 2.2
1/80
No flash, indoors
SOOC
I'm linking this photo up with Love That Shot!

Sweet shot---back to school

2010-08-17T00:00:00.000-07:00

My Aunt and her daughter have been visiting us this weekend from California. They go back tomorrow. I was able to fit in a school photo shoot for her daughter who goes into 5th grade. She is a funny quirky little girl and being an only child has had a blast with my three girls. They have played hard for 4 days! Here are a few of my favorites. It was said that now she can go to school in jammies on picture day!

For more sweet shots go here:

Sweet Shot--Happy 13th

2010-08-09T23:19:00.000-07:00

Today is my sweet big girl's 13th birthday. I am now officially a parent of a teen and I am excited for what the next few years will bring. Saturday we celebrated with her friends. They are the sweetest young ladies in the making. We are so blessed to be surrounded by such lovely families. God has provided!

Here are some of my favorite shots of our trip to the ocean, sandboarding and more.

Take note that these girls have never done this before!

See more sweet shots here:

Curriculum 2010-2011

2010-08-03T22:44:00.000-07:00

(Long post)

Ok, someone please stop the train that summer has been on. I want to get off. I cannot believe that it is getting closer to back to school time. So much for my summer school plans. Really, I should just give up on trying to get any school done during the summer. I want to do school...sort of...it just never happens.

I want to join the fun at Heart of the Matter in their Not Back to School Blog Hop. I'm going to share what we are using this coming year and I am excited to see what others are using too.

To start with I will introduce my students.

Belle is in 8th grade. Um, that kind of hurt typing that out. She is my artsy, talented, talkative, emotional, oldest daughter.

Phi is in 6th grade. She is my intelligent, detailed, quirky, middle child. She is also what I call my free student, meaning she learns so easily that it takes hardly an effort on my part.

Bobo is in 3/4th grade. She is my mellow, happy, easy going, socially intelligent, baby of the family.

One of the greatest things about homeschooling is that I can tailor my children's education to their learning styles and their interests. So you will see that I don't use the same thing for each child. If I do it is because it works for them. If something doesn't work, I look for something that does. If I like something really well, I will use it for all three children. There have been a few products that I have liked that much and I will make note of it as I mention it.

I'll start with what we use together, then I will move into the individual curriculum choices for each child.

Overall curriculum:
My Father's World---History, Science, Bible, (Art and Music are optional and we have not used these). I spoke all about it here so I won't repeat myself. But I will add that I still love it!

Bible: We also add Bible Study Fellowship to our schedule.

Math: The bane of my homeschool.
Teaching Textbooks: 3rd, 6th, Algebra. Yeah, I bought it all. It's not cheap folks. It was either that or hire a tutor for three children. Yeah, I stink that much at teaching math.

Language Arts:
Total Language Plus: Belle and Phi are doing these literature guides. I have not tried them before so I am excited to see if we like them. There are many books to choose from. I chose books that coincide with the history time period we are studying.

Language Lessons by Queen Homeschool: Phi and Bobo are using this. I have used it before and I like it. It is a very gentle Charlotte Mason approach to language. There is a lot of copy work and narration built in.

Grammar:
Basics for Communicating Effectively by Christian Liberty Press: Belle is using this book. It was recommended by My Father's World. I have not used it before.

Writing:
IEW: We are involved in a co op this year and one of the moms is teaching IEW. I am very excited about this. I want to use IEW but don't want to invest in it just yet. This will help us learn the system first.

Foreign Language:
Rosetta Stone French: Levels 1-3 for all kids.

Handwriting:
Handwriting Without Tears: Bobo---I love this program. Their cursive books are easy to use and they work.

Science: Co-Op!!!!! I am so excited to be a part of a co-op with some great families.
Apologia: General Science and Astronomy by Jeannie Fulbright.

I am teaching science to grades 1-3 and will be using Evan Moors science series for kids. Our topics are Space, The Body, Habitats, and Plants.

Phew, that might be the end of the list. I hope we get through all of this.
And this photo is just because!

Sweet Shot--Beach

2010-08-02T22:11:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful time at the coast. It went by too fast. Here are a few more of my favorites. I was so glad we made it to the tide pools. They are so fun to explore.

At The Fair---Photography entry!

2010-07-31T21:38:00.000-07:00

I need your help. I think I may enter this photo in the fair under the agriculture category. Which of the following should I print to enter. If none, then please give me an idea as to which direction to go...color, b/w, sepia, etc.
1)

(SOOC)
Thanks for your help!

Sweet shot- Beach

2010-07-26T22:41:00.000-07:00

We are at the beach for a few days. Here are my favorites from today.

Yes, I handed my camera over to my daughter to take a photo of hubby and me. I need to remind myself to do this more often. It would be nice to know that when looking through out photo albums that yes, these kids do have a mom and dad!

Blueberry Time!

2010-07-22T15:52:00.000-07:00

Strawberries last month, blueberries this month. This is one of the reasons why I love the northwest. The abundance of fruit so nearby is a wonderful thing.

2010-07-20T16:41:00.000-07:00

When I saw the girls dressed up I had to take my camera outside to see what I could capture. I think this is just adorable.

Sweet Shot--Lily

2010-07-19T20:49:00.000-07:00

Well, since you asked, here is another flower.

My girls are gone...

2010-07-15T23:27:00.000-07:00

For the night that is. All three of my girls are at horse camp. They left today and will return tomorrow evening. It seems I should be excited about the time I have to myself and getting something done around the house. The truth is, I won't get much done and I miss them already. It is too quiet in the house. They belong here. It makes me wonder what life will be like when they are grown and living their lives with their own families. A necessary adjustment for sure, but I don't wish for it to arrive too quickly. I'll be ready to have them home.

A couple of snapshots of our trip to the lake last weekend. The girls had a blast. We just may venture back this weekend. And the dog learned to swim.
Susan

Sweet Shot---Back to Nature

2010-07-12T22:52:00.000-07:00

This pretty dahlia is in my front yard, right against the house in a flower bed. I have really enjoyed my dahlias this year. They make me happy.

I love ladybug photos. I tried my best to get close. I got him a little wet watering the vegetable garden and I just love the little water droplet hanging off him. Oh, how I wish I had a macro lens!

My daughter's dill is blooming. I love these yellow finger like flowers.

These are my gardening adventures from today. What is your sweet shot?

Horse Camp

2010-07-08T22:06:00.000-07:00

Belle has loved horses for quite some time. This year the Lord has provided a very inexpensive way for her (and her sisters) to take riding lessons. Then she was given the opportunity to become a ranch hand this summer. This week she went to camp with all the ranch hands, junior wranglers and wranglers. This was the first time she was away from home, and I didn't have a part in her experience. It was a new experience for both of us and we both did well. I sure was glad to have her home though. This evening we picked her up and before we left the kids gave the parents a show of what they learned. Below are some photos of this evening.

This photo shows all the dust kicked up from the horses. Belle is waiting for her turn.

She spots me for the first time.

She kicks it up a notch.

The 4th of July

2010-07-07T23:15:00.000-07:00

Here are some photos from our Independence Day celebration. Unfortunately I was more concerned with learning to take fireworks photos than I was with taking photos of people. This was my first photo of the evening. We have very pretty sunsets in the Northwest.

Our celebration started with BBQing with friends, a trip to a nearby town to watch the fireworks display over the river. It was crowded and I almost regretted taking all my photo gear. I was concerned with the obvious theft, and then accident. On top of that we were right on a steep river bank and I was concerned that we might loose one of our 9 children between the three families. So while I wasn't really able to relax very well, I did manage to capture a few fun shots.

After the fireworks display we went back to our friends house to set off our own fireworks. It was a late night, but one memories are made of.

My First (and last) Wedding! (Sweet Shot)

2010-07-05T19:21:00.000-07:00

One thing my husband has made sure to tell me is that no matter how good I may get in photography, he does not want me to shoot weddings. I agree wholeheartedly. I really don't want to be stressed and liable over wedding photos. Well, this week a good friend asked if I could do her a favor and take some pictures at her sisters wedding. She found out just the week before that her sister decided to get married and had all of 4 days to throw something together. With little time and no budget she put together a very small affair with as many special touches as she was able. She called on Thursday. Jeep and I discussed it and decided that with no expectations on the part of the bride or family, and on a volunteer basis that I could do this for my friend. I was excited, and nervous. I know that with each situation a gal can learn a lot about what she should have done. But in all honesty (and humbleness) I have to admit that I am quite proud of myself. This was a huge learning experience that I am thankful for. It was also a confirmation for me that I still do not want to do wedding photography.

So for Sweet Shot Tuesday here are a few of my favorites. Also, to protect the privacy of this couple I will not be posting faces. I only have permission from my friend to post those photos that do not show the identity of the bride and groom.

Photo Editing

2010-07-02T23:09:00.000-07:00

I'm feeling the need to learn to edit photos. I received some free actions from Amanda at Everyday Elements on a Facebook drawing and just installed them thanks to a tutorial from Coffeeshop.

Here is a photo of Belle SOOC

This is the Cool and Crisp Action.

This is the Peppy Black and White Action

Which is your favorite?

Strawberries

2010-06-30T00:20:00.000-07:00

Warning: Lots of photos.

The girls and I went to pick strawberries today. We are so blessed to live in an area where strawberries grow so well and taste so good. Strawberries are one of my favorite fruits. Every year we pick a ton and I make freezer jam, freeze whole strawberries for smoothies, and save some for eating. Tonight we had strawberry shortcake, and salad with strawberries and home made strawberry vinaigrette. Yummy! I had a ball with my camera! The photos speak for themselves.