Linden Photography + Design {the blog}

{Jeanine} - New Hampshire Boudoir Photographer

2011-12-01T10:28:00.001-08:00

The beautiful Ms. Jeanine contacted me to do a boudoir shoot as a present for her husband. What a lucky guy he is! She brought some of the cutest outfits with her, including a fabulous jacket that I fell in love with. Just goes to show that boudoir shoots aren't all about lingerie...a really nice shirt, jacket, or even pants paired with sexy boyshorts or bra can look amazing too! At Jeanine's shoot I put on the Bon Jovi {her favorite} Pandora station and we jammed as I shot. Before I knew it I had filled two cards, so it's been tough pairing down the favorites, but here are a handful of ones that I really liked.

Jeanine, thank you so much for choosing me as your photographer! I had a great time working with you and you really did do a fantastic job! I hope you love what you see thus far and am excited to show you the rest...

On to the pics...{click to view full size}

{Natural Light Studio Now OPEN!} - New Hampshire Photographer

2011-11-27T17:03:00.001-08:00

I am beyond thrilled to announce that I recently opened my new, natural light studio in the Franklin Business Center, located in the heart of downtown Franklin, NH. The building is an old renovated industrial mill which means lots and lots of character! My studio features vintage hardwood floors, exposed brick, beams and ductwork, plus gorgeous floor to ceiling windows which lets in tons of yummy, natural light. With a full-sized bed decked out in modern bedding, cute chairs, and my backdrops, it's the perfect space to create sexy boudoir photos, lovely maternity shots, and sweet newborn and baby pictures.

I'm also now selling these fabulous frames from The Organic Bloom and will soon have samples to show off at the studio. They come in all sorts of charming shapes and delightful colors and are perfect for baby's room, wall portraits, and for desktop gift prints. There is also an iPad option, which I've personally been eyeing!

The studio is open by appointment only, but here are a couple of photos to show it off. I'll also be adding some furnished ones soon so be sure to check back!

{Kim} - New Hampshire Boudoir Photography

2011-11-15T16:08:00.001-08:00

The lovely miss Kim came all the way up from Massachusetts to create some sexy, amazing boudoir images as a gift for her lucky guy! I'm guessing he's going to LOVE what he sees! Kim did a fantastic job and was so easy to work with, plus she gave some seriously smoldering looks with her gorgeous eyes. Between her super cute and hot lingerie, her favorite Bruins shirt, and her honey's favorite Red Sox jersey, we got all sorts of great shots.

Kim, I thoroughly enjoyed working with you and hope you are thrilled with what you see thus far! It was definitely hard choosing my favorites and I can't wait to show you the rest!

On to the pics...{click to view full size}

{Sunday Morning in Bed} New Hampshire Photographer

2011-10-09T18:37:00.000-07:00

Meet Kirst...

She is a beautiful, professional model that gives some amazing "face!" Her looks change within an instant, yet each one is compelling in their own right. After I "friended" Kirst on a modeling website, she contacted me about a shoot idea she'd been kicking around. That planted the seed, and from there it grew from her in torn jeans and a white shirt to an idea that I started to envision--"Sunday Morning in Bed." I imagined a couple in bed, cuddling, sleeping, reading the paper, drinking coffee and so forth, all the while making the person viewing the pictures wonder about them. Who were they? How long had they been together for? Were they happy? Kirst was completely on board, so next I had to find a male model that also liked the idea.

Meet Justin...

Like Kirst, Justin is a professional model who knows how to change expressions at the drop of a hat. I emailed him and asked if he'd be game for the shoot and thankfully he said "Yes!" Fast forward to today, where we all met in my {potentially permanent} natural light studio with the intent of telling a {made-up} story. With jazz playing in the background, we got down to work. Many hours and cards later I had not only gotten the shots of the "couple," but also a ton of both Kirst and Justin, both on their own and in different outfits. I truly had so much fun working with them and was duly impressed at their professionalism and range of emotions. It's not easy to play the part of someone you're supposed to be "in love" with when you've just met said person a few minutes prior to being placed in front of the camera, yet they did...and they did it damn well.

Oh, and there will be a TON more coming soon so be sure to check back often!

Kirst + Justin, thank you so, so much for coming up to the studio and going along with this vision I had! I hope you're as pleased with the results thus far as I am and I can't wait to show you the rest, and to work with you guys again!

On to the pics...{click to view full size}

{Becky} - New Hampshire Boudoir Photography

2011-10-08T18:10:00.000-07:00

Becky and I have known each other for years, although we'd never met, given I used to live on the West Coast and she lived on the East Coast. So I was doubly thrilled when she said she wanted to book me for a boudoir session seeing as how that meant not only would I get to meet her, I'd also be able to photograph one hawt mama! Today she ventured down to my natural light studio in Franklin, NH and it was like meeting an old friend. When it came time to start the session, Becky turned in to a super model! She posed well, gave my a perfect pout, and showed me some amazing come-hither-bedroom-eyes. Va va va voom, chica! The session flew by but we got some wonderful images for sure.

Becky, I adore the heck out of you and had so much fun with you today! I hope you love what you see...there's tons more to come...

On to the pics...{click to view full size}

{Seras} New Hampshire Newborn Photographer

2011-10-05T17:04:00.000-07:00

Today I traveled down to Hollis to meet one of the most beautiful baby girls I have ever laid eyes on! Little Seras is just a month old {still in that newborn stage} and is soooo dainty and sweet! We started off in her nursery, then moved to her Nana's house where I set everything up in front of a lovely gray wall and was able to use some amazing props {such as a fabulous basket and super cool swaddling cloth that I coveted} brought by Amanda. I also got to test out a new round wicker basket I picked up the other day, as Seras fit perfectly in it. I'd get about 15 mins. or so with Seras asleep before all of my posing would eventually wake her up. I'd then take some of her awake, she would nurse, be handed to Nana to fall asleep, and away we'd go again. I swear, I could have photographed that tiny sweetheart all day!

Amanda + Seras {and Nana}, thank you all for inviting me to photograph your amazing baby girl! I can't wait to show you the rest!

On to the pics...{click to view full size}

{Dave + Victoria + Simon}

2011-09-20T16:05:00.000-07:00

I know I keep saying this, but I truly cannot get over how fast the babies I photographed last year {many of them starting with maternity sessions} are growing up! Sunday I went to shoot yet another one of my awesome clients and barely recognized the fast-approaching 1 yr. old before me. Simon was now scooting all over the place, walking around the furniture like a champ, dancing to music, and chattering away. I snapped as he played with trains, scooted off the backdrop paper in about .02 secs. flat, ate Cheerio's, posed with his lovely mom and dad, and rode on his rocket--just to name a few. It was a blast--pun intended! I have so many favorites from this session and still have a ton to edit, but here's the sneak peek.

Dave, Victoria + Simon, I truly loved seeing you guys again and capturing yet another milestone in Simon's life! Can't wait to come back and get some more!

On to the pics...{click to view full size}

{D'Amour Family}

2011-09-20T15:58:00.000-07:00

On Saturday I ventured up north to a lovely house on the lake to photograph the wildly hilarious {and not bad looking either} D'Amour family. I'm pretty sure we laughed the entire time and yet they posed like pros. I couldn't have asked for a more perfect way to spend my Saturday and can't wait to work with this group again...seriously.

D'Amour Gang, thanks so much for having me out to capture your super awesome family!

On to the pics...{click to view full size}

{Jessica + Cody + Baby #2}

2011-09-20T15:51:00.000-07:00

I had meant to post the two storyboards I made from the recent maternity sitting I did with Jessica, but as I'm not a huge fan of some of the cropping in the storyboards, I had every intention of fixing them...then I got the flu...and am playing catch-up. But seriously, she and Cody are too cute not to post and I will just have to get over my picky-ness!

On to the storyboards...{click to view full size}

{More of Colin + Family}

2011-08-03T12:14:00.000-07:00

At the end of July I headed up north to snap a few more shots of Colin and his awesome parents. While he's still not 100% sure of me yet, he's warming up. I predict that when I see him again later this month I'll be coaxing more than one smile out of his adorable face! As promised, here are a few of my favorites from that sitting, along with a few from his first session.

On to the pics...{click to view full size}

{Where I've been}

2011-07-14T09:04:00.000-07:00

I've been taking photos almost daily {not quite, but close}, however I haven't had time to edit and blog about them because of these five, adorable, INSANELY MESSY, ducklings that {finally!!} hatched on the 4th and 5th of July. {Side note: four hatched on the 4th and the fifth arrived on...the 5th} Thus far we only have names for three of them but are working on the last two--who were, incidentally, the first and last to arrive. The light brown one is Indy {short for Independence}, the dark brown/black one is Sirius, and the light blue/silver with yellow spots is Olive. I'm actually amazed that any of them hatched given we had 1.) never done this before, and 2.) made the incubator ourselves, and 3.) some of the eggs had to sit for almost a week before they could be put in to the incubator {thus lowering the chances of developing/hatching}. You can read my first post about them HERE.

For awhile we had a webcam up with a live feed so people could watch the last two ducklings hatch, which we then moved over to the brooder. It's down for a bit now but it's been pretty popular. The ducklings live in our sunroom {for the moment} and I love hearing their little trills and songs interspersed with the pitter patter of webbed feet running around the brooder. We've taken them outside to play in the grass, hunt bugs, and have already introduced them to swimming. Plus, in between all of that I'm cleaning up after them at least 3-4 times a day. Lots of work, but so worth it. So without further ado, here are some pics of our little ones.

On to the pics...{click to view full size}

{Derek, Sara + Colin}

2011-07-06T14:28:00.000-07:00

I first met Derek + Sara when I did their maternity session and had a blast working with them, and their awesome dogs, Sampson + Baxter. This weekend I got to meet the adorably sweet Colin and take pictures of all five of them. Although Colin was a bit unsure of the crazy lady with a camera, a bit of tickling from mom and dad, and lots of help from Grandma (again, I'm stealing her guys...I mean it!) went a long way in getting those precious little smiles out of him. Once shirtless and on his tummy, it was on and he was hamming it up as if he'd been doing this whole model thing forever. Loved it!

Derek, Sara + Colin, I had so much fun with you guys and hope you adore your photos!

On to the pics...{click to view full size}

{Easton + Sheri}

2011-07-06T14:18:00.000-07:00

I love these two and was thrilled when Sheri asked me to take some photos of she and Easton over the weekend! Given the last time I saw Easton he was just a baby, I couldn't get over the shock that he was turning one on July 4th (and still haven't)! Where does the time go? Although Easton is now walking, his adorable smile and thick beautiful hair haven't changed a bit. Sheri was, of course, as radiant as ever and is obviously crazy about her little guy. I didn't have to pose her at all--just let their natural interaction shine through (with a little help from Grandma...who I'm stealing for any further photoshoots). I had a tough time picking my favorites out, but these are just a few that I adore.

Sheri, it was wonderful to see you guys again and I hope you love your photos!

On to the pics...{click to view full size}

{June 30, 2011}

2011-06-30T15:19:00.000-07:00

A little while ago, one of the gals on the Ravelry Project 365 group came up with the idea of having a swap between those of us participating on the board. We were each assigned a name and asked to include various items in the package, and then mail our stuff out by a certain date. My box arrived from Cumbria earlier this month, but we had all agreed to wait until June 30th to open our items. After unwrapping the brown paper, I found a box loaded with goodies! There was much ooh'ing and aah'ing over the beautiful handknit flowers (okay, I may have gone a bit overboard in telling my family how much I love them), some squealing over the sheep magnet, a bit of drooling over the chocolate, lots of petting of the lovely yarn, and even more "awwww'ing" over the super sweet card and gorgeous photos. And, as if that weren't enough, my swap partner also gave me some nicely scented soap, some awesome lotion, and cute little buttons. I.was.spoiled!! I LOVE it ALL and can't thank my amazing swap partner enough!!

(And I'm truly hoping that the person I sent stuff to loves her items as well!)

Taken with my iPhone using the Camera+ app.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{June 27, 2011}

2011-06-27T18:09:00.000-07:00

Back when we lived in Oregon, we used to go Geocaching fairly often. (If you search through the archives you'll find some hilarious stories about our first times out). Ryan and I loved the challenge and the kids loved finding "treasure." We had not gone out geocaching since we'd moved here, though. With interests renewed, plus being bored out of our minds, we decided to go out tonight and find some caches. We also now have an app on our iPhones that lets us locate and search for caches, log them, write notes, and everything else you do while geocaching which, coupled with our handheld GPS, makes things even easier. Getting to the caches, however, is usually the hard part. We set out on a trail through a heavily wooded area where we fought our way through the forest and found three separate caches. Although we were all sweating like crazy, and realizing just how out of shape we are (okay, that would be just Ryan and I...mainly me), we had a blast!

Taken with my iPhone using the Camera+ app.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{June 26, 2011}

2011-06-26T14:29:00.000-07:00

Totally behind but trying to get back in the swing of things. Also, the mama robin has returned to her nest and has laid three more eggs. Be prepared for at least a couple baby robin photos coming soon.

Today's photo is of some lovely Manos del Uruguay yarn I purchased at the Elegant Ewe in Concord. I have eyed this yarn before, yet couldn't resist when the store had an awesome sale recently. It's soft and squishy, and the colors are so pretty. I love that all of the skeins are created by hand by the woman of Manos' Coops allowing them to provide for themselves, and their families. You can read more about Manos del Uruguay yarns by clicking on the name.

Taken with my iPhone and edited using the Camera+ app.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{June 21, 2011}

2011-06-21T18:15:00.000-07:00

Although I took this photo (and sent the package off) days ago, I'm trying to catch up and give everyone a glimpse of my new packaging. I realize the "Thank You" card tied with the ribbon, and the sticker with my logo printed on it, are a bit difficult to see with the camera being pulled back, yet I wanted to show the new boxes I'm now using for print and small album orders. Each box is then tied with white and yellow baker's twine bringing some of the yellow from my new logo in to the theme. I love it and can't wait to get my website (and new blog) finished and published for you all!

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{June 18, 2011}

2011-06-18T19:40:00.000-07:00

My son has been legal to drive for about three months now, but we've been so busy that we haven't had a chance to put him behind the wheel. Today, however, that changed. After a quick trip to the bank I noticed that the parking lot was almost completely empty, so I gave him the low down on everything, and we switched seats. I'm teaching him the same way my dad taught me, which is that in the beginning he only gets to put it in "drive" and let the car "push" itself. Once he gets the hang of turning, braking, going in reverse, etc. we'll step up to using the gas pedal. This lesson only lasted about 15 mins. as there ended up being quite a few people cutting through the parking lot, yet he did really well. Even though it's a bit scary thinking about him being able to drive, I'd be lying if I didn't admit I'm excited about teaching him how.

Taken with my iPhone using the Camera+ app.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{June 17, 2011}

2011-06-18T19:26:00.000-07:00

My lilac bush finally bloomed...and is quickly losing it's sweetly scented blossoms. I grabbed a photo before the remaining flowers are all gone.

Taken with my iPhone using the Camera+ app.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{June 15, 2011}

2011-06-15T18:56:00.000-07:00

Today is Miss Kya's 6th birthday and, as you can see, she is clearly worn out from all of that bully stick eating (hold the jokes). I meant to take a better photo of her earlier, but between working like mad on my website redesign and schlepping all over Concord trying to find my daughter a bathing suit for tomorrow's field trip, I'm settling for this. And it should be noted that Kya is NOT a fan of the camera. Oh she looks all cute and sweet in photos, but she hates posing for them. I tell her she's beautiful, yet that never works. She's not impressed with flattery. I feel lucky whenever I can get her to even look at the camera. Can't say I blame her...I'm the same way. Nevertheless, I adore this dog as much as my kids, and if you ever meet her you'll see that she is a "mommy's dog" through and through. My dad calls Kya my "shadow" because wherever I go, she goes too. I love it that way!

Taken with my iPhone using the Camera+ app.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{June 14, 2011}

2011-06-14T19:39:00.000-07:00

Lunch today--"Fancy" grilled cheese: rustic farm bread, swiss cheese, and thinly sliced pear--repeat. Nom.

Taken with my iPhone using the Camera+ app

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{June 11, 2011}

2011-06-12T16:31:00.000-07:00

I didn't get a chance to post this yesterday although I did take it last night. All four of us played poker until around midnight. Yes, I'm corrupting my children young. ;o)

Taken with my iPhone using the Instagram app with the X-Pro II filter applied.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{June 10, 2011}

2011-06-10T17:58:00.000-07:00

All packed up and ready to go! I'm participating in a swap on Ravelry with the rest of the Project 365 gang and will be sending my swap partner's items out tomorrow. I'm really hoping she likes all the little goodies! Once she receives it and we've all opened our boxes, I'll post the photo I took of what's inside. Until then...ssssshhhh...it's a secret.

Taken with my iPhone using the Instagram app with the Poprocket filter applied.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{June 8, 2011}

2011-06-08T17:27:00.000-07:00

Last year we had a moth just like this one that hung out on our front door. I looked up what type it was, but have forgotten. From wing to wing it is roughly 4-5" wide and about 3" tall. Definitely one of the largest moths I've ever seen. This one is "trapped" between our window screen and the window, however I did my best to convince it to fly free by leaving the window open...and tapping gently. It appears "she" has been laying eggs on the screen itself, so maybe that's why she refuses to go? I named the first one "Kevin." I think I'll name this one "Sheila." (That "line" of "stuff" on the screen is actually rust, but if you look towards the bottom right of the moth, you can see the eggs.)

Taken with my iPhone using the Instagram app with the Walden filter applied.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{June 6, 2011}

2011-06-06T19:08:00.000-07:00

Tonight my son was honored with an award of excellence in Algebra. He and other freshmen, sophomores, and juniors were recognized for their outstanding academic performances in various classes. I'm not sure how many kids received awards, but I do know it was not that many given the size of the school, which says a lot about what it takes to be honored. We are so incredibly proud of him!

Before we went inside I had my dad take a photo of us. Although the expressions may not be the best (none of us like having our picture taken), I love how it shows just how big our kids are getting. The saying is so very true...time flies when you're having fun!

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{May 30, 2011}

2011-06-06T18:50:00.000-07:00

I realize this is out of order but I wanted to post this picture (and may post one I took on the 28th as well). On this day, when I had woken up and come downstairs, I looked outside to find one baby robin perched on the edge of the nest. The other two had apparently already fledged and this lone bird was getting up the courage to join them. Quickly I grabbed my camera, carefully opened the front door, but despite my best efforts I spooked the wee one. She flew towards the house, hitting it gently, then landed in the landscaping. I felt so bad and was properly admonished with the look of death by the robin. Realizing that it was okay I snapped a couple of pictures before heading inside. From there we watched her hop off in to the woods where we noticed one of the other babies up in a tree, being fed by the mama bird. I did not see the second baby, however with so many trees surrounding us I have no doubt it was out there. Eventually the one on the ground joined the rest as we no longer saw them. I still catch myself looking out the window at the nest and can't help but to miss them. Good luck baby robins!

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{June 5, 2011}

2011-06-05T17:38:00.000-07:00

Tonight, Ryan called me outside to show me this strange, mustard yellow, slimy substance that had seemingly appeared out of nowhere. After a bit of research I figured out that the stuff was called slime mold, or in some cases, dog vomit mold. It looks sort of like cauliflower, however it's definitely not solid like it. We're not sure how big the patches will get or how long it lasts for, but it's truly weird.

Taken with my iPhone using the Instagram app.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{June 3, 2011}

2011-06-03T15:38:00.000-07:00

Ryan and I recently "built" a homemade incubator from a styrofoam cooler, a piece of plexiglass, some chicken wire, a 25W lightbulb, a thermometer that also measures the humidity, an egg carton, and--the best thing ever--a temperature controlled outlet that controls when to turn the lightbulb off and on to maintain the temp at 99-100 degrees. On Saturday I put in 11 Muscovy duck eggs that I had collected over a few days, and I've dutifully turned the eggs and watched the temp/humidity the entire time. Hopefully we have several that are fertile and will end up with baby ducklings in another 4 weeks. Tomorrow night I will candle the eggs to check on their progress, although I'll most likely check them tonight just for fun. :o) This is the first time we've ever hatched anything and I know the success rate isn't so great for duck eggs, but it's fun nonetheless! Plus, I've already told Ryan that if these eggs aren't fertile/don't make it, I'm throwing some freshly collected chicken eggs in there--I want babies!!

Taken with my iPhone using the Instagram app with the Sutro filter applied.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{June 2, 2011}

2011-06-02T19:04:00.000-07:00

Tonight Ian had his spring orchestra/band/choir concert--the last of the year. As always I left my big camera at home because I've learned that 1.) Ian will never be sitting where I can see him unless I perform some amazing feats of acrobatics, and 2.) these concerts are looooooong...and I don't want to stand for 40 minutes while the orchestra performs (the entire thing usually lasts over 2 hours). Yes, I'm lazy...yes, I know this. Anyways, I couldn't help but notice this jacket and found myself staring at all the zigging and zagging and just plain insanity going on. Now, I have seen some busy clothing before--I grew up in the late 70's and 80's for crying out loud--but this...this is pushing it to the next level. The pic doesn't do it justice (gym lighting), yet I think you can get a feel for what I mean.

Taken with my iPhone

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{June 1, 2011}

2011-06-01T17:48:00.000-07:00

This is a gift I'm knitting for someone. The yarn is pooling in a, to me, unfortunate way. However, when I took my knitting to my doctor's appointment yesterday I was complimented on it. Hopefully the person I'm knitting this for either has a great sense of humor or loves crazy pooling. To say I'm nervous about what they will think of it would be a huge understatement.

Taken with my iPhone using the Instagram app with the Brannan filter applied.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{May 31, 2011}

2011-05-31T19:13:00.000-07:00

I'm behind a bit, but will post pics from the missing days later. Today was yet another doctor visit in a different place, so I captured it for posterity's sake.

Taken with my iPhone using the Instagram app with the Walden (if memory serves) filter applied.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{May 29, 2011}

2011-05-29T18:55:00.000-07:00

I've been attempting to sew a costume for my daughter's school project since about 5 p.m. What should have taken me about 10 mins. has turned in to an all night issue. I have no idea why the machine isn't working, but tomorrow I'll be looking for a large bag of safety pins to use instead of sewing it, then hand sewing the rest.

Taken with my iPhone using the Instagram app with the Brannan filter applied.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{May 27, 2011}

2011-05-27T18:16:00.000-07:00

These could quite possibly be the cutest set of stitch markers I've ever seen. I mean how could I not adore them given they combine two of my most favorite things--coffee and knitting?! I will definitely be using these a lot. The seller, Bijoux Designs For You, is also incredibly nice to work with and has several really nice pieces (from stitch markers to jewelry) in her shop. Plus, if you like the ones I purchased she has another listing for them as well... ;o)

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{May 26, 2011}

2011-05-27T18:04:00.000-07:00

{I had issues posting yesterday, so this one is coming in late}

The babies keep changing and today I had to laugh when they tried to hide from me while I snapped a few pictures. They all flattened out as best as they could, brought their wings up, closed their eyes and held as still as possible. The effect works remarkably well, I'll give them that.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{May 25, 2011}

2011-05-25T17:22:00.000-07:00

I've got a feeling...somebody's watching meeeee...

{side note: I can't believe how fast they're growing!}

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{May 24, 2011}

2011-05-24T18:27:00.000-07:00

One of these things is not like the other...one of these things just doesn't belong. Except in this case, I would soooo adopt her (him?) in a heartbeat! This little turkey showed up around 4:15'ish today and hung out with the guineas until after 8. It was tough getting photographs of her as I couldn't go outside w/out scaring the poor bird back in to the woods, so I was forced to shoot from indoors. I did notice, however, that she got a bit more brave when she realized I had thrown out some tasty food for the guineas. Granted, she didn't get anywhere near me, yet she no longer disappeared the moment she caught sight of me. Still, I wasn't about to chance bringing out the camera which meant I was left with whatever I could get from inside the house. I have named her, Lucille after the mother in Arrested Development. Not because she seemed rude, or drunk, but mainly because every time she tried to "make friends" with the guineas, they would get scared off and back away from her. I'm hoping Lucille comes back regularly so we can chat about ungrateful children and wine.

On to the pics...{click to view full size}

{May 23, 2011}

2011-05-23T17:13:00.000-07:00

When I walked outside all three of the babies popped up, mouths agape, making little cheeping noises. I tried to grab a picture of them as fast as I could, but once they realized I wasn't their mama they quickly settled back down in to the nest. Maybe next time... Still, I love how the little one on the left is resting his/her chin on the nest all ready for the next feeding.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{May 22, 2011}

2011-05-22T18:19:00.000-07:00

We've been watching Arrested Development with the kids during the evening for the past week. Ryan and I have already seen the series, start to finish, and seeing as how we're constantly making inside jokes using Arrested Development references, the kids were begging to watch it. We're trying out the HULU+ for the XBox this month so each night we settle in and watch a couple of episodes. Tonight we hit one of Ryan and I's favorite scenes involving bees...and beads. I rewound it so we could watch it again and the laughs were just as loud the second time as they were the first.

Taken with my iPhone using the Instagram app with the Brannan filter applied.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{May 21, 2011}

2011-05-21T17:43:00.000-07:00

They're getting pin feathers and changing colors a bit!

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{May 20, 2011}

2011-05-20T16:28:00.000-07:00

Switching it up a bit today as the baby robins pretty much look the same as they did yesterday. I planted this...tree?...shrub?...treeshrub?...last year. Despite being practically run over by our plow guy, buried under 6+ feet of snow for months, and molested by chickens, guineas, and ducks, it's come back. One of the things I like about this foliage are the delicate white and pink flowers that bloom in the spring. I guess it's the treeshrub's way of saying, "Suck it winter."

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{May 19, 2011}

2011-05-19T16:13:00.000-07:00

They're getting fuzzier and making little squeaking noises. Also, they're still very hungry.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{May 18, 2011}

2011-05-18T16:40:00.000-07:00

And then there were three... Yay triplets! In the first photo you can see two of them waiting for Mom (or Dad) to return with a meal and in the second you can see all three snuggling. {Melt}

On to the pics...{click to view full size}

{May 17, 2011}

2011-05-17T14:44:00.000-07:00

We have babies!! Two at the moment, still waiting on the third to hatch. I was so excited to see the tiny pink, covered in tufts of fluff, "newborns" moving around this morning that I had to contain my squeals for fear of scaring off the mom (or maybe it was the dad--I learned that both mom and dad take care of them and we have seen the pair in the yard together). I couldn't wait for the kids to get home so I could show them the babies. After the parent-in-charge had flown off for some food, we peered out the window and ooh'd and aah'd as if we were looking in to an actual nursery. {We embrace our weirdness around here.} I decided to chance getting a photo but since the parents have been diligent about tending to the nest, babies, and egg, I had to move quick to get this shot. I plan to take a photo of them every day until they fledge and will use each one as my Photo of the Day so you can enjoy them as well. Side note, if you look right above the far right area of the egg you can see one of the babies eyes. Awwwwww!

Any ideas for names?

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{May 16, 2011}

2011-05-16T18:16:00.000-07:00

This is the lone skein I purchased at the NH Sheep & Wool Grower's Festival. It was sheer luck that I came across the Dirty Water Dyeworks booth as I had no idea there were vendors in that portion of the fairgrounds (wonder who I missed last year?...). The kids and I had gone over to watch the border collie sheep herding demonstrations and just so happened to see the other vendor tents set up. After we watched the dogs and sheep for a bit we headed over to peruse the goods. As soon as I entered Dirty Water Dyeworks I fell in love with a sweet little shawl knit up with DWD's Bertha in Pixie. The dominant colors were various shades of green, yet there were also hints of blue and brown running throughout. Although I figured there would be none left in that colorway, I was surprised to find a single skein still left. I'm not sure what I'll knit with it but I'm hoping that the color turns out as beautiful as the shawl did. I will say that the woman running the booth, presumably the owner, was super sweet and very helpful. And the yarn is incredibly soft, too.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{May 15, 2011}

2011-05-15T17:43:00.000-07:00

Yes, yes...I know...I took this yesterday. But come on...how can you resist that face (and also it's been raining like mad here so I'm stuck indoors)? Okay, maybe if you're not as in to sheep as I am you can. I can't, however, so you're stuck with another sheep photo. This breed of sheep (Tunisians) are my favorite breed--in so far as I know without 1.) ever having truly spent a lot of time around them, and 2.) not having a lot of knowledge on the various sheep breeds. Still, I get all giddy when I come to the "Tunis" and will linger the longest at their pen while I dream of having a flock grazing in a pasture by my house. What? You don't do that? You should, it will make you smile. ;o) I promise this is the last sheep picture I'll post for awhile. And by awhile I mean at least a couple of days.

Taken with my iPhone and edited with the Photoshop app.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{May 14, 2011}

2011-05-14T18:32:00.000-07:00

The kids and I went to the New Hampshire Sheep & Wool Grower's Festival this afternoon and, just like last year, we had the most fun petting and fawning over the livestock. Naturally my favorites were the sheep (although truth be told I go ga-ga over pretty much any animal) and I spent plenty of time loving on any who would allow it. Megan's favorites were the goats although sadly there weren't very many of them. Ian dug the bunnies, so I kept telling him to stick one in his hoodie. Alas, he's too upstanding to do that. ;o) We also thoroughly enjoyed watching the various types of dogs herding sheep around a large paddock. The intelligence, focus, and speed of those dogs is just amazing. One thing that surprised us was that alpacas make a sort of whining baby sound. There were two of them in a fenced booth that kept making the noise, almost as if they were talking to each other. I wasn't sure if it was an "I'm upset" noise or just what they do. I did take a short video of it and will post it later.

Despite being surrounded by literally tons of gorgeous fiber, I behaved myself and only purchased one skein. Course the fact I still have a huge bag of fiber just waiting to be spun, and plans to take spinning classes so I can actually spin the stuff, may have had something to do with my restraint.

These two ridiculously cute lambs (one ram, one ewe) were a mere 9 weeks old. Their wool was thick and soft and their pink noses totally did me in. I met their owner, a lovely woman, who told us the mother had died shortly after giving birth. The lambs have been bottle fed and hand raised by the family, thus making them extra friendly. We chatted some more about keeping sheep, then I finally said goodbye to the little darlings (to say I could have stayed with them all day would be an understatement). Naturally it just made me want them all the more...naturally.

Taken with my iPhone and edited with the Instagram app with the Hefe filter applied.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{May 11, 2011}

2011-05-13T18:38:00.000-07:00

I couldn't resist putting up another photo from Eric's baby session. This one has "Future Heartbreaker" written all over it! Look at that devilish little grin of his--love it!

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{May 13, 2011}

2011-05-13T18:24:00.000-07:00

Friday the 13th wasn't very good to me. Ian had a doctor's appointment today at 1:40. At 12:30 I got up to do some work and realized that I needed to pick Ian up from the high school in about 30 mins. Problem is, I hadn't showered or eaten lunch yet. Ensue mad dash all over the house. Showered, fed, dogs put up, I rushed out the door to my car. I should note that I had not driven my car in about 2-3 weeks as I've been driving our new (to us) Jeep given to us by my amazing dad (THANKS DAD!!). However, the Jeep was at my dad's today so he could do some service stuff on it. Yesterday I told myself, "Self, when your husband comes home for lunch tomorrow you should totally start your car while he's here to make sure it runs. That way, if the battery is dead, he can jump the battery and all will be right with the world." Given I had forgotten to both shower and eat, as well as forgotten the appointment, you can see where this is headed.

Put the key in the ignition, turn it, it makes a noise but it won't catch. Three attempts later I'm now on the phone with my dad who is telling me he'll be at my place in a few minutes. I call the doctor's office and let them know we'll most likely be late. When my dad arrives I tell him I don't think the battery is dead as I can roll my windows down, etc., so he has me pop the hood. "Laura," says my dad, "You might want to come look at this." Tentatively I walked towards the front of my car. Looking down I see tons of paper, leaves, feathers, and other random pieces of material all neatly formed in to a large nest. Needless to say, it was the last thing I expected to find resting on my battery...let alone in my car. Course, I guess I shouldn't have been too surprised given the mechanic found a large nest in my air filter when I had it serviced last year. Apparently my car is prime real estate for the critters of our woods. Sigh... I was just glad there were no mice babies in there as I would have felt bad for disturbing it.

As we clear out the nest and start charging the battery my cell phone rings. It's the doctor's office and they're telling me the day is incredibly booked. If I can't get Ian there within about 5-10 mins. of the scheduled appt. time, they won't be able to get him in. Rather than chance it I opt to reschedule.

I still have to clean out the rest of the crap the rodent brought under the hood of my car, lest I risk a fire while I'm driving. Lovely. I wish I could figure out how to keep these guys out of my car, but for now I'm planning to start it at least every other day and let it run for a bit in hopes of deterring them. We'll see how that goes...

Taken with my iPhone and edited using the Photoshop app.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{May 12, 2011}

2011-05-13T18:03:00.000-07:00

I tried to post this last night but Blogger was down--go figure. Anyways, this pic is of my laptop with one of my favorite sites displayed...Ravelry.com. If you're a knitter or crocheter I can't recommend it enough!

Taken with my iPhone using the Instagram app with the Poprocket filter applied.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{May 10, 2011}

2011-05-10T17:40:00.000-07:00

Today is Miss Lexi's 8th birthday! She's been sung to and spoiled pretty much all day...and man is she loving it. Not only did she get bits of scrap food here and there (something we don't do often to keep their tummies normal), but she also indulged in one of her favorite things--sugar snap peas. Both of our dogs go nuts for the outer shells and end pieces, so while I scrape out the peas for me, I pass along the rest to the dogs. Their tails could hardly contain their joy as they chowed down. Tonight Lexi will get some chicken "jerky" to cap off a love and food-filled day. Needless to say, she's had a very good birthday!

Taken with my iPhone using the Instagram app with the Earlybird filter applied.

On to the pic...{click to enlarge}

{May 9, 2011}

2011-05-09T19:21:00.000-07:00

Not sure what type of spider this is, but he/she hung out by our front door for awhile then disappeared one day. I kind of miss seeing him/her.

Taken with my iPhone and edited using the Photoshop App.

{May 8, 2011}

2011-05-08T16:08:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to all of you moms out there! Hope your day has been filled with lots of love, laughter, and relaxation! Having said that, here is my gift from my adorable daughter, Megan. She loves to paint and worked really hard on this one. To say I love it would be a huge understatement! This is Mt. Hood at sunset and I'm planning to frame it and hang it in our front room.

Taken with my iPhone and edited using the Photoshop app.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{May 6, 2011}

2011-05-06T18:45:00.000-07:00

Crummy photo tonight as we were in some serious low light...tres romantic. Ryan and I went to The Common Man for dinner and I snapped this pic of the killer oil lamp, my water glass, and part of the menu. Even after editing it in various apps it still looks awful, but it's late and we're about to watch a movie so this is it.

Taken with my iPhone and edited using TiltShiftGen, Photoshop, and Lo-Mob.

On to the pic...{click to enlarge}

{May 5, 2011}

2011-05-05T17:44:00.000-07:00

New favorite item from Mrs. Meyer's...Honeysuckle Hand Soap. The smell is divine, the scent lasts forever (seriously), and it actually makes me hands nice and soft. If only they had a bar soap in this same formula. I would buy them by the ton!

Taken with my iPhone using the Instagram app with the Toaster filter applied.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{May 4, 2011}

2011-05-04T16:31:00.000-07:00

If you look real close you'll see the little surprise I got today when the robin, who has made a nest right outside our front window, took off. Two tiny, beautiful bright blue eggs! The nest is in a small evergreen tree about two feet off of the ground, and although we don't use that door very often, I'm worried that we may disturb her too much. Or maybe she's seen all of the other fowl running around and figures we're pretty cool bird people. Either way I took this photo from inside the house so as not to bother her. I really hope she hangs around to hatch, care for, and raise the babies. Would be awesome to be a witness to it all!

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{May 3, 2011}

2011-05-03T18:51:00.000-07:00

Nothing super special tonight, just the lamp that sits next to me so that I can see. Apparently the older I get the more light I need (and I still squint from time to time). This shot is of the base of the lamp which has a "rustic" patina to it. It's small thus allowing it to fit perfectly amongst the chaos. I dig it.

Taken with my iPhone using the Hipstamatic app with Alfred Infrared "film" and the Robo Glitter "lens."

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{May 2, 2011}

2011-05-02T18:26:00.000-07:00

This is Geraldine Hazel Conley...otherwise known as my MeMaw, or paternal grandmother. When my mom found out she was pregnant, my dad's sister also learned she was pregnant as well. MeMaw told them both, "I don't care which one of you does it, but one of you better give me a granddaughter." My mom had me and my aunt had my cousin John. MeMaw got the best of both worlds. She and I were super close and I adored the hell out of her. Many days were spent either picking strawberries (and eating them) out of her garden, or running through the woods surrounding their log cabin. She made the best fried chicken ever, had an incredibly impressive garden, was a hard worker, and loved her family dearly. I could go on and on about my grandmother, but suffice to say, I learned so much from her and miss her terribly.

Today my dad gave me a book containing many items that belonged to my grandmother. Inside I found three photos. Two of them were of my grandmother as a young woman. The other was of her dressed as Santa holding me, around age 2. I look unsure of who the person is under the beard, but you can't miss that huge smile on her face hidden under the white fluff. I'm not sure how old she was when this photo was taken, yet that sparkle in her eye never faded.

Taken with my iPhone using the Lo-Mob app with the 30's Contact filter applied.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{May 1, 2011}

2011-05-01T17:18:00.001-07:00

I love a good pot roast, even though my daughter really can't stand the stuff. Because of her aversion I don't make it very often but when I do...yummmmm. Tonight's version was pretty good although the meat wasn't marbled enough so it wasn't as tasty as usual. I always add in some parsnips as it's the only vegetable in the pot we all agree on. Carrots and onions are added in for taste, although the kids and I eat those as well. As a side I make mashed potatoes, another big yummmmm in my house, and let out a little sigh of content whenever I take the first bite. nom nom nom.

Taken with my iPhone using the Lo-Mob app with the Photocard II filter applied.

On to the pic...{click to enlarge}

{Eric}

2011-04-30T18:00:00.000-07:00

I headed down to Manchester today to meet the super cute Eric (son of April + Elijah) and was greeted right off the bat with a big grin from the little guy. He talked, he laughed (especially when their dog Lucy barked or gave him kisses), and he melted my heart. I loved catching up with April and Elijah (and seeing my favorite Bogle, Lucy!!) and was impressed at how relaxed and natural they were with Eric. Being a first-time parent can be tough but these two made it look as if they'd raised ten kids without batting an eyelash. Towards the end of the session, Eric crashed out letting us get some "sleepy baby pictures," with a few of those donning an adorable monkey hat. I have a lot of favorites from this session already, but narrowed it down for the Sneak Peek. Eric, it was a pleasure to meet you "little monkey!" And April, Elijah, and Lucy, I so enjoyed seeing you guys again!

On to the pics...{click to view full size}

{April 29, 2011}

2011-04-29T17:45:00.000-07:00

I had a hard time falling asleep last night and even after I finally dozed off I woke up several times. Then this morning our guineas were being especially loud, our open bedroom window letting their irritating "We're being MURDERED!!" (even though they were completely fine and safe) screeching drift through at an obnoxious level. I gave up trying to catch anymore rest and got out of bed around 9 a.m., which sounds like total luxury to some--I know--but again, I was only going on a few solid hours of rest here. Seeing as how I had a doctor's appointment at 10:30 a.m. I jumped in the shower, grabbed a light snack, called the office to make sure that the address listed on the doctor's website (Hooksett) was indeed correct, was told they were in Hooksett, and drove the 25 minutes south. When I arrived they found me in their system...but wait...the doctor I was scheduled to see didn't work in that office. She was in Concord. Where I'd just driven from. A quick phone call to the Concord office to explain what happened, some hastily explained directions, and I was off again. I should have asked for more clarification as to where exactly I was going, however.

I thought I had the right place, parked, went through the first building...then the second...then on to the hospital...and still was unable to find the office. There was no one at the information desk so I thanked my lucky stars for owning a smartphone that allowed me to look up the number and call the office directly. Better instructions in hand, I walked back through all three buildings, got in my Jeep, drove to the correct parking lot, and was greeted by a lovely woman named Rosie who approached me and said, "Are you Laura?" When I answered in the affirmative, she smiled and said, "We've been expecting you!" Together we went upstairs where I got checked in, waited a bit in the waiting room where equally lovely staff members asked how I was, and then was taken back to see the doctor. The nurse, the doctor, and the rest of the people I came in contact with were all wonderful, warm, and caring. Plus I got the extra bonus of seeing my favorite Phlebotomist when I had my blood drawn. Seriously, the guy cracks me up and you can't hardly feel the needle stick.

When the appointment was done, the clock was approaching 1 p.m. I hadn't eaten anything, save for the light snack at 9:30 a.m., and it was over two hours past the typical time I have coffee, so a headache was starting to set in. I still had to drive home, pick up my daughter, and take her to a friend's house before I could eat or have my daily cappuccino. By the time I got home I was more than exhausted. But here's the thing... The doctor I saw today is an Oncologist/Hematologist. I do not have cancer, just a rare, weird blood disorder that only Hematologists really know about. So even though my day sounds really crappy, it's nothing compared to what the people I saw in both office waiting rooms have to endure every day. At the Oncology/Hematology place in Hooksett there was a woman who was around my age, maybe younger, talking to (presumably) her husband about an upcoming wedding they had to go to. I don't know if she was the patient, or if he was, or if they were waiting for someone, but it came across to me as if she was the patient. And I couldn't help but think that the shoe could have been on the other foot. Rather than me walking out at the end of my appointment knowing that what I have could only kill me in some rare circumstance--and even then it looks like I have a mild variant of it as is, making it even more unlikely to happen--I could be fighting for my life. If that doesn't make you look at your crappy day in a completely different light, I don't know what will. Granted, I have some serious health issues of my own, but those are of the "wait, watch, and monitor" variety. Much different.

Naturally, given my penchant for photographing waiting rooms I had to snap one of the chair next to me. It's a bit closer than I would have liked, yet I didn't want other patients to assume I was taking a photo of them...or that I was crazy...or a combination of both. Still, the fabric is pretty cool and it was in the Concord office where the people had me smiling the entire time, which just goes to show that it takes a special person to work in healthcare.

Taken with my iPhone using the Instagram app with the Earlybird filter applied.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{April 28, 2011}

2011-04-28T18:20:00.000-07:00

This bracelet belonged to my mom, who wore it in the 60's and 70's. Although it's not my style per se, I've always thought it was really cool.

Taken with my iPhone using the Lo-Mob app with the Photocard Two filter applied.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{April 27, 2011}

2011-04-27T16:57:00.000-07:00

Steelhead salmon with dill and lemon...mmmmm. We were introduced to Steelhead when we lived in Oregon and fell in love with this trout. Ryan went fishing for Steelhead a few times, only to come up empty. They're not the easiest fish to catch. This particular fillet came from Chile. Totally not as good as Pacific Northwest Steelhead, yet tasty nonetheless. I paired it with fresh sweet corn on the cob, and coupled with the warm, humid day, it felt as if summer had arrived.

Taken with my iPhone using the Instagram app with the 1977 filter applied.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{April 26, 2011}

2011-04-26T16:54:00.000-07:00

Coffee day! My shipment from Sweet Maria's arrived and I can't wait to make at least a few new espresso blends from these beans. I believe I've mentioned before that I roast our coffee and espresso at home, then brew them in either our La Spaziale espresso machine, or one of the many coffee brewing devices we have (the latter being Ryan's area of expertise). Over the past couple of years I've gotten better at detecting flavors thus helping me figure out what I like, and don't like, in an espresso blend--which is what I mainly focus on seeing as how I love me a tasty cappuccino. I have high hopes for these beans and will be putting them to the test this week when they hit the roaster after I dole out proportions that will, if done correctly, highlight the best part of each type of bean, as well as complement each other.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{April 25, 2011}

2011-04-25T17:32:00.000-07:00

Moss covers a lot of things out here, especially in the woods. I love the different textures and colors, and although this pic is a bit blurry (I took it at dusk) you can get a sense of what I see on a daily basis.

Taken with my iPhone using the Instagram app

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{April 24, 2011}

2011-04-24T16:23:00.000-07:00

Sheepy pants!! When I saw these at Old Navy I quickly snatched them up. Knowing my family would make fun of them did not deter my desire to own yet another sheep-related item. What can I say? I'm a sucker for sheep! They are a bit too long on me, but they're light and comfortable...and they bring a smile to my face whenever I wear them.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{April 23, 2011}

2011-04-23T18:11:00.000-07:00

My dad recently purchased a new Outback and because he is super awesome, he gave us his Jeep Cherokee so we finally have a vehicle big enough to cart around the kids and the dogs. Given I drive a sedan and Ryan drives a 2WD, 2-door truck it's been damn near impossible to get the four of us, and our two dogs, anywhere together. That will no longer be an issue--yay!! The downside is that owning an SUV means it cost more to fill the thing up. I found out exactly how much today. My dad had warned me that the last time he had filled it up it set him back about $60, so while I wasn't completely shocked, it still hurt. lol For now I'm calling it "The Beast" and may end up driving it a bit less, even though I really enjoy being in a higher-up, bigger vehicle.

Taken with my iPhone using the Instagram app with the Lomo-fi filter applied.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{Boudoir Sneak Peek}

2011-04-22T16:00:00.000-07:00

Today I had the privilege to photograph this stunning lady--otherwise known as Lynne. She was a blast to work with and was great about coming up with posing ideas, making my job even easier. I loved her eyes and would kill for both her figure and her hair! We played some music, I tried to make her laugh but was completely off my game today, and still she glowed. Plus she could hold an expression like a rock star--something that is VERY hard to do! I shot a ton (when don't I when presented with a gorgeous subject?!) and will be editing fiercely over the coming weeks, but for now here is a Sneak Peek of things to come.

On to the pics...{click to view full size}

{April 21, 2011}

2011-04-21T16:20:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow I have a photoshoot (a boudoir session, to be exact--yay!!), which means tonight will be spent charging batteries, packing, and making sure I have everything ready to go. Depending on what type of shoot I have, the amount of gear I bring to said shoot varies. Sometimes I bring backdrops and stands, other times I might bring a studio strobe and a stand for it if there's a chance we won't have enough natural light. Usually I take my fabric, blankets, and wraps unless the client definitely knows they don't want to use them. Typically I take a combo of the aforementioned items. But no matter what type of session I have, this big, super heavy, been with me forever camera bag always comes along. Inside I have two camera bodies (my Mark II 5D and my 20D); a 24-70mm lens, a 50mm lens, an 85mm lens, and a 17-40mm lens; a Metz flash; Metz powerpack; Sekonic light meter; remote trigger; batteries; cards; a sewing kit (came in handy more than once back when I was shooting weddings and had to do minor alterations for the bridal party--I'm not kidding); random items that I've had forever; and the piece de la resistance...deodorant.

Now most of you are probably thinking, "What's so special about deodorant?" and you'd be right--there isn't anything special about it, other than the fact it keeps people from stinking. Yet for some reason whenever people discover I carry deodorant in my bag they either find it incredibly amusing or think it's weird...or both. And by "people" I mean other photographers who are actually friends. But I remind them that whenever one is shooting a wedding (a.k.a. what I was doing when I originally stuck the deodorant in my bag) in the blazing hot sun, it's nice to know you can reapply the anti-stink/anti-sweating deodorant as needed. Some people end up taking my advice and adding a small thing of deodorant to their bag. Others still laugh at me. That's okay...I smell better than they do.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{April 20, 2011}

2011-04-20T17:21:00.000-07:00

After the day I've had, I'm not feeling very creative. This doohicky, which is filled with sticks and scented oil, normally sits in our downstairs bathroom. I took it out today so the plumbers could try and fix our sink that is leaking. Unfortunately they were unable to do so thanks to a faulty faucet. Thus far I'm not happy with the company that created this faucet, but I'm hoping they'll rectify the issue very, very soon.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{April 19, 2011}

2011-04-19T17:52:00.000-07:00

Today, along with my son, I sat on a wooden bench in a set of bleachers that are probably 100 years old, for over three hours, in the cold and rain, to watch my daughter run the 200 yard dash--which took all of about 40 seconds. Totally worth it, yet I have a feeling these will be coming in handy over the next day. I've used them on my aching shoulder blades to help curb, what they think are, occipital nerve headaches. I don't work for Tylenol (obviously) and I'm not making any money off of them, but they do work well.

Taken with my iPhone using the Instagram app with the Brannan filter applied.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{April 18, 2011}

2011-04-18T16:13:00.000-07:00

When we bought this house there was a scraggly, ugly, pine tree/bush thingy planted at the corner by our front patio. Last summer I ripped it out and put in a lovely lilac bush (a Syringa James Macfarlane, to be exact) that filled the space well and looked nice to boot. After being covered in over five feet of snow, I was worried that it may not recover come spring. Now that the snow is (mostly) melted and the sun has warmed its branches, tiny buds have reappeared. I can't wait for it to blossom and greet us, and visitors, with its amazing scent.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{April 17, 2011}

2011-04-18T05:49:00.000-07:00

I realize today is not the 17th, but I took this photo last night and meant to post it, but was too exhausted. So you're getting two today as I'll be posting another photo later.

This tiny green circle, no larger than a pencil eraser, screwed up the shawl I was knitting causing me to have to rip the entire thing out to start over. Without getting too technical, there is a part in the pattern that when completed creates what is called a "yarn-over." The yarn would wrap around this circle, called a stitch marker, and if all goes well you get a perfectly straight "spine" in the shawl. At a couple of points in the "spine," the stitch marker shifted causing the "spine" to shift as well. Basically, it became crooked. I ripped back to where the pattern was correct, but unfortunately I'm not good enough to pick up lace stitching, so I'm starting over. I'm annoyed but also relieved that I was only about 5" in to the shawl rather than 5'.

Taken with my iPhone using the Lo-Mob app with the Photocard Two filter applied.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{April 16, 2011}

2011-04-16T14:58:00.000-07:00

Finally! We had every intention of watching Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows Part I in the theaters, but never got the chance to do so. At first it was due to being crazy busy, then we went to one of the last theaters showing it, on a Thursday night, only to find it completely sold out...months after the movie premiered. Yesterday Ryan picked up HP7 on Blu-Ray, much to our excitement. I thought they did a terrific job with this movie and could easily watch it over and over. Plus, we got to see the first few minutes of Part II on the Special Features disc. Can.not.wait.for July! Oh, and that's one good thing about not watching it in theaters...instead of having to wait eight months for Part II, we only have to wait three!! Bonus!

Taken with my iPhone using the Instagram app with the Gotham filter applied.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{April 15, 2011}

2011-04-15T17:30:00.000-07:00

I pulled this tick off of my son's back tonight. Judging by the size of it I'm fairly confident it's a Deer Tick. We're pretty sure it's been there for at least 2-3 days given that's when Ian plowed through brush trying to figure out where the guineas are (potentially) laying. There is already redness where the head was, which means I'll be calling the doctor come Monday--sooner if I see a bullseye rash. I had Lyme's Disease when I was pregnant with Ian (ironic, no?) after I was bitten by a Deer Tick without even knowing. What we thought was a rash from a spider bite was luckily diagnosed by a diligent OB. A same-day, "emergency" visit to the dermatologist and blood tests confirmed their suspicions. Two weeks on antibiotics with Ian inside, and another 2 (or 4...can't remember) after he was born for both of us, and they pronounced us "cured." Whether or not that's true remains to be seen, but needless to say I know what to look for and I know not to play around with it.

Taken with my iPhone using the Instagram app with the Toaster filter applied.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{April 14, 2011}

2011-04-14T18:07:00.000-07:00

Apparently she missed him a lot. Although truth be told, she does this all the time so maybe she didn't miss him. Ryan just got back from a business trip to Nevada. I kept telling him to go do some gambling, but despite seeing slot machines in the grocery store, and a full on casino in the Vegas airport, he didn't listen. I told him he left our millions back there. I think he felt like he hit the jackpot when he found Deschutes Brewery's Black Butte Porter and took great delight in texting me a picture of it...to taunt me. Naturally he only took a carry-on bag so there was no way for him to bring any back with him. Naturally.

Taken with my iPhone using the Lo-Mob app with the 30's Contact filter applied.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{April 13, 2011}

2011-04-13T16:51:00.000-07:00

mmmmm...bagels with cream cheese, smoked salmon, and capers. It's what's for dinner. Yum!

Taken with my iPhone and edited with the PS app

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{April 12, 2011}

2011-04-12T18:03:00.000-07:00

I did not take this photograph, but given the subject matter it is fitting for today. The man in the picture is my Uncle Rick, the woman is his wife. He is my dad's youngest brother and looks a hell of a lot like my dad. Rick was always the fun uncle, almost always had a smile on his face, and was constantly cracking jokes. He married a sweet woman named, Joy, and together they had a very good life. About six years ago she unfortunately got sick, and passed away. Soon after he met an (from what I'm told as I have not yet had the pleasure to meet her) equally sweet woman named, Amy. They left Indiana and moved to Arizona as my uncle decided he no longer wanted to see snow and ice. Recently my dad went out to visit Rick and Amy and had a great time reconnecting and visiting. I had hopes of one day being able to see my uncle and meet his wife.

Sometime last month, my dad got a call that Rick was in ICU due to a really bad bout of pneumonia. They had to intubate Rick and give him strong antibiotics, which caused his kidneys to fail. Things looked really bad. We all waited, sent up good thoughts, and hoped for the best. Rick turned the corner, improving, and soon was off of the ventilator and out of ICU. His next stop was the rehabilitation hospital so he could get strong again before heading home. While there he developed a gastrointestinal bleed, which led to a stroke. Although they did everything they could for him, his brain did not get enough oxygen resulting in zero activity on his EEG. My dad flew out there to be with Amy, help with the arrangements, and say goodbye to his brother. To say it was a shock to us would be an understatement. We all thought that Rick was in the clear and would soon be back at home with Amy, looking at houses to buy as they had been before all of this happened. I am so very sad that I didn't get a chance to say goodbye to him, yet even more so for Amy, my dad, my Aunt (Rick's sister), and my uncle (Rick's brother).

Despite the tragic loss of a loved one, there is something good to come of it all. My uncle was a frequent blood donor and wanted to be an organ donor. His wife honored his wishes, and now Rick will get to live on, in a way, and help others in the process. There is nothing more selfless than to give the gift of life, or sight, in a time of sorrow. I am so proud of my uncle for wanting this, and even more so of my aunt for following through.

Rick passed away on April 8th. Today is my uncle's viewing. Later tonight he will be cremated.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{April 11, 2011}

2011-04-11T17:42:00.000-07:00

One of the many feathers scattered around our property. Pretty sure this one is from a duck rather than a guinea, or a chicken. While it's not unusual to see feathers here and there, it is rare to find them hanging from a branch.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{April 10, 2011}

2011-04-10T17:20:00.000-07:00

I started my very first shawl using the gorgeous Zauberball yarn I posted about HERE. Thus far I'm in love with both the yarn and the pattern and I'm having a hard time resisting the urge to knit constantly. Hopefully that love continues when I hit over 600 stitches on my needles.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{April 9, 2011}

2011-04-09T18:49:00.000-07:00

First signs of spring...finally. My mother-in-law told me what type of plant this is, but I've already forgotten what they are. I do know that they get pretty tall and flower, if memory serves. I'll have to be sure and take another photo as they grow and (hopefully) blossom.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{April 8, 2011}

2011-04-08T17:28:00.000-07:00

A sweet, uninhabited bird nest perched on the branches of the large (unknown type) bush that sits to the right of our kitchen window.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{Maternity Article}

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

The 4th installment for ADI-News is up and this one is about one of my favorite types of photography...Maternity! Go check it out and let me know what you think!

Motherhood Photography, Modern Professional Maternity Photography

{April 7, 2011}

2011-04-07T17:25:00.000-07:00

Today's photo, while admittedly not a great photo given I took it with my phone and it's of a computer screen, is close to my heart as it's of a website I created for some lovely clients of mine. I featured their portrait sitting, Cody + Family, back in November and was excited to work with them again in a different setting. The logo was created by Jessica and the rest was done by me with tons of input from both Ron and Jessica. They were with me all the way, even when I completely re-did our first agreed upon layout to the current one after a spark of inspiration. Landscape Solutions was started by Ron in 2001 and he has worked hard to build the company, earning the respect and praise of his customers along the way. If you're in the Merrimack Valley or Southern NH, give Landscape Solutions a call and see what Ron and his crew can do for you!

Taken with my iPhone and edited with the Photoshop App

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{April 6, 2011}

2011-04-06T16:05:00.000-07:00

Today was Megan's first track practice, so I embarrassed her by taking a photo for posterity's sake. One of these days she'll look back and appreciate my craziness. At least, that's what I tell myself.

Taken with my iPhone using the TiltShiftGen app, border added with the Photoshop App.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{April 5, 2011}

2011-04-05T15:22:00.000-07:00

I've always loved birch trees. The way the bark peels like paper, the mix of black and white, and how pretty they look against a backdrop of pines. This is one of a few birch trees scattered throughout our property that I could get to easily. In the fall the leaves turn an intense shade of yellow that contrasts nicely with the black and white branches.

Taken with my iPhone then edited using the Photoshop app.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{April 4, 2011}

2011-04-04T17:34:00.000-07:00

Ryan and Ian have a ton of games that have various types of figurines used to play the game...this is one of them. I have no idea what it's supposed to be, or what it does, or if it's powerful, or weak, or anything. I do know it goes with the game Space Hulk and what I thought was a black figurine is actually blue. Also, I know that the game takes up a ton of space, even though the figurines are only about 1-2" high. This is why we rarely eat dinner at the dining room table because the area is usually occupied by at least one game in progress. So instead of having nice family dinners we have this thing to look at.

Taken with my iPhone using the Instagram app with the Walden filter applied.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{April 3, 2011}

2011-04-03T15:52:00.000-07:00

New shoes for Miss Megan. On the left we have the super cool (& cute) Converse shoes for skating and everyday wear. On the right we have her comfy and light Asics running shoes for track, which starts tomorrow. We also bought some pants, a zip up hoodie, a shirt that wicks away moisture to wear under her uniform, and a bag to carry it all in. I have always thought it was awesome that she loves to skateboard and now I can't wait to cheer her on from the sidelines as she sprints down the lanes. It's probably a good thing the Converse shoes are a size too small for me, though...I'd steal those puppies in a heartbeat.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{April 2, 2011}

2011-04-02T15:20:00.000-07:00

A super sweet, former co-worker of mine made this gorgeous wooden chest for me. I can't remember if it came already stained and sealed, or if I had to do that myself, but either way it's one of the nicest things anyone has ever given me. And lest you think I was "special," he created several wood pieces and gave them to all of the girls at work--strictly as a way to share something he enjoyed doing (woodworking) with people who loved his art. Currently it's used to house most of my yarn stash and is proudly displayed in our living area. I definitely see this as a piece of heirloom furniture that will hopefully be passed down from generation to generation.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{April 1, 2011}

2011-04-01T17:03:00.000-07:00

Nom, nom, nom...chocolate chip hazelnut cookies. This just about makes up for the snow we received last night through late morning today. They canceled school, which just means the kids' year has been prolonged, and the saddest part was that the roads were completely clear. Go figure. Plus, to top it all off we're all fighting a nasty head cold, each of us with varying degrees of nastiness (Megan bearing the brunt). At least we're capping off this day right with tasty cookies and milk.

Taken with my iPhone using the Instagram app with the Earlybird filter applied.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{March 31, 2011}

2011-03-31T14:29:00.000-07:00

I saw this yarn, Schoppel Wolle Crazy Zauberball (colorway 1660 Flussbett), on Ravelry under our Project 365 forum and ooh'd and aah'd over it before searching out patterns on Ravelry using this exact yarn. Loving what I found I caved, found some on Jimmy Beans Wool, and ordered it. Today it arrived in the mail and now I have to find something cool to make with this lovely yarn. Given my track record it could take me a day or a year...or somewhere in between.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{March 30, 2011}

2011-03-30T17:01:00.000-07:00

On either side of our basement doors, there are two walls made of various sizes of boulders and rocks. One is only about 3.5' tall, but the other is well over 8' high. Our ducks and guineas love to perch on top of the highest peak and look out in to the woods. The kids enjoy teetering on the edge of the rocks and walking along them, giving me a heart attack whenever I catch them. I, of course, think they are beautiful and love how they frame the large, wide-plank wooden basement doors. In this photo it appears as if there is a nest amongst the boulders, however it's just a pile of pine needles and leaves. However, I wouldn't be surprised if critters live inside the spaces scattered throughout.

Taken with my iPhone using the Hipstamatic app, Lucifer VI lens, and Ina's 1935 film

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{March 29, 2011}

2011-03-29T18:40:00.000-07:00

We're watching "Winter's Bone" tonight, a movie that I didn't put in the Netflix queue and Ryan doesn't remember putting it in there either. Hopefully it's good.

Taken with my iPhone using the Lo-Mob app with the Vintage Instant - Reframed filter applied.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{March 28, 2011}

2011-03-28T15:21:00.000-07:00

Straight out of the camera, no altering of this photo. This is a reflection from an XBox game case on to one of our tower speakers. I love how it looks like flames.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{March 27, 2011}

2011-03-27T19:37:00.000-07:00

My baby girl, who would kill me if I called her that in public, turned 12 today. She wasn't thrilled about me taking this picture, and it took a bit to get her to pose even the tiniest amount, yet she knows I'll keep bothering her until she lets me take one. I know it's cliche, but it feels like just yesterday that I was holding her in my arms, a full five weeks premature, relieved beyond belief that she was completely healthy. Apparently she knew she was ready to come out and despite everyone else's concerns, Megan knew she would be fine. That fearlessness has not ceased--which is both good and bad--as she's grown older. She loves skateboarding, learned to snowboard last year, and is always on the go. While she's shy around new people it doesn't take long for her to warm up and make an instant friend. Megan has a great sense of humor, always making people laugh. She has a true heart of gold and will do anything for anyone. I am always impressed at her nurturing side, her quick wit, her ability and willingness to face challenges head on, and what a great person she is. Although I love watching her turn from a little girl in to a young woman, there's forever this part of me that wishes I could freeze time, if even for a moment, just so that I have even more time with her here. Happy Birthday, Megan...I am so very proud of you and love you more than you'll ever know!

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{March 26, 2011}

2011-03-26T20:54:00.000-07:00

Today we had Megan's birthday party at the Space Center where we, and three of her friends, played laser tag (actually only Megan and her friends played that) and tons of games. Ian and I got hooked on a game called Cyclone and both of us hit the jackpot giving us each over a hundred tickets. Towards the end of the party we decided to pool our winnings in hopes of taking home either a lemur or squirrel cat (which I have no idea what the latter is, yet it sounded cool). Unfortunately we were short. When Megan learned of our dilemma she offered to throw in her tickets as well. Still not reaching our goal of 1750 tickets it was decided we'd hold on to the receipts and come back at a later date to win more and get our prize. Then my dad, who had already contributed $25 worth of tokens to us, threw in two more dollars. Ian and I were off with 4 tokens a piece. A scant five minutes and eighty some-odd tickets later, we had hit our mark. After some deliberation we all settled on the quizzical black lemur with glow-in-the-dark eyes. He has since been named Abraham...or Abe for short...thanks to his comical beard. I'm aware that we probably could have purchased him much cheaper, but the satisfaction of winning games and working together more than makes up for the larger price tag.

Taken with my iPhone using the Instagram app with the Walden filter applied.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{Kara}

2011-03-25T18:36:00.000-07:00

I'm using Miss Kara's Sneak Peek as my Photo of the Day seeing as how her mom and dad have been looking forward to these pictures, and I've been excited to share them! Kara was such a good baby the day of her shoot! She smiled, she posed, and she put up with me changing around the backgrounds, wraps, and props like a champ. You would think that after two hours of shooting she'd be completely done with all of us, yet she kept up her happy demeanor. The only time she got fussy was when her dad (or mom) kissed her on her cheek. For some reason that is just not cool, man! :o) I had a tough time narrowing down which ones to share as I have so many favorites from this session. Kara has some of the greatest expressions I've ever seen, plus she's absolutely beautiful (as are her parents)! I wish I lived closer so I could "visit" at least once a month and snap away.

I'm including a storyboard I quickly put together, although I plan to polish these up when I have more time. They're something you can actually purchase and can be customized in a ton of different ways. I love 'em!

On to the pics...{click to view full size}

{March 24, 2011}

2011-03-24T17:18:00.000-07:00

This kid is legally able to drive with us in the passenger seat. Granted, that hasn't happened yet, but it still blows my mind. I blackmailed him tonight by aiming my iPhone at him, saying his name, and snapping a photo when he had a "What?" look on his face. I showed it to him and said, "You can give me one where you're smiling or this can be my 'Photo of the Day.'" He chose the former. He tried to keep from smiling, but failed because I'm awesome and can always make him smile. I try not to think about the fact that high school graduation is just around the corner, or that the time for him to head off to college is right behind that. I'm not really sure what our house will be like without his quick wit, dry sense of humor, and smartness (smartness as in actually smart-ness, not smart-assed-ness, although that happens from time to time, too) surrounding our daily lives. For now I'll just pretend I have twenty more years before he leaves the house and revel in the fact that I can still get him to "pose" for a photo...even if it involves a bit of coercion.

Taken with my iPhone using the Instagram app with the Earlybird filter applied.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

{March 23, 2011}

2011-03-23T15:04:00.000-07:00

I've heard a lot of good things about this tea on Ravelry, yet although I've seen it in the stores around here, I'd never picked any up to try. The reason I'd passed over said tea multiple times is that I have quite the stash of the stuff (in various leaf types and flavors) in our pantry and I knew Ryan would chastise me for buying more. But today I caved. As soon as I got home I brewed up a cup and was not disappointed. I now understand what all the hullabaloo is about PG Tips. I could easily replace an afternoon cappuccino (which I've been indulging in quite a bit lately) with a cup of this tea, yet be just as satisfied and happy. If you have this tea where you are and haven't tried it, go...do it now. You'll thank me.

On to the pic...{click to view full size}

Article #3

2011-03-22T18:52:00.000-07:00

Another article for ADI-News is up! Check it out...

Photography Project 365 - Keeping the Creative Side Sharp

{March 22, 2011}

2011-03-22T17:45:00.000-07:00

Today is a two-fer (bonus points for you people who read that word and thought of 30 Rock) seeing as how I waited in two different areas and liked the juxtaposition of the two. I swear, I'm going to do a study of waiting rooms on this blog. I have to admit, I really like that chair in the second photo. I would use that fabric in a heartbeat.

Both photos taken with my iPhone using the Instagram app with the Hefe filter applied

On to the pics...{click to view full size}