Hearts & Scars

February Ten on Ten

2012-02-10T22:05:00.000-08:00

Hi! Not sure what a ten on ten project is? A photo every hour for 10 consecutive hours on the 10th of the month. Here is a glimpse into my day, iPhone style!

7:30

8:30

9:30

10:30

11:30

12:30

1:30

2:30

3:30

4:30

Happy Friday everyone!

♥♥♥

Childlike Joy

2012-02-03T09:00:00.000-08:00

Today, allow yourself some happiness...carefree kid style. So often life is so serious and it is hard to remember to just slow down breathe, smell the flowers, and jump for joy without reason. Little kids run, jump, play, laugh, smile, and exude a certain joy that seems to slowly diminish as we age. I am not saying we are dull, boring adults who have fun...heck no. Just life gets busy, we have obligations and responsibilities and don't have the same freedom as we did when we were but wee little ones. But I just wanted to say, take a break from you busy schedule today to engage in a little child-inspired fun.

Jump rope. Buy a giant lollipop that is bigger than your head. Make a snow angel. Ride a carousel. Take a spin on your kid's scooter. Color outside the lines. Finger paint. Play with your food. Make a root beer float. Play in the dirt without worrying about..the dirt. Buy a balloon. Make a daisy chain headband. Go treasure hunting. Play hopscotch. Draw with chalk. Fly a kite. Play checkers. Drink chocolate milk, purposely growing a milk mustache. Play hide and go seek. Eat a fruit roll up. Eat cake for breakfast. Watch old fashioned cartoons. Make a flip book. Spin in circles until you get dizzy. Take a trip down the slide or touch your feet to the sky on the swings. Browse the children's books at the library. Lick the bowl after making a batch of brownies. Buy something from the ice cream man. Don't just walk, skip. And of course, let your imagination run wild.

Coax out your inner child and I promise you will be smiling and feel lighter. Here is to a carefree, delightful, fun Friday! xo

1 Year Ago - a Look Back

2012-01-29T21:56:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately, life got too crazy for me to keep up with my project 365. Someday I hope to start a new one and come up with a process that allows me the time for a daily photo. My downfall I think was in the posting, I didn't always have time to upload, edit if I felt so inclined, and post on my blog or flickr. And in retrospect, I was too focused on having a perfect photo each day, however, when looking back, some of my favorites were those not so perfect ones taken on my iPhone or photos that simply triggered a memory or emotion. So for those of you who are toying with the idea of taking on such a project, or struggling with the logistics...my advice? Stress not. Simply take a photo, any photo, with any device and do not stress over the imperfections.

But that being said, one of my favorite benefits of the project is the visual journal you are left with at the end. Looking back and recalling what I did on a certain day, or revisiting something beautiful I was lucky enough to stumble across. Over at Shutter Sisters today, Kristin inspired us to look back and see what we were doing on this day, January 29th, one year ago...a day which has no significance to me off the top of my head. But when I dug into my archives and found this photo, I was instantly transported to that lazy relaxing weekend cruising around town, and hanging out at Starbucks with lattes in hand and enjoying each other's company. I remember taking this photo not only because I felt so happy, but I was also pleased that my name was spelled correctly (trust me people struggle with this often).

:: January 29, 2011 ::

And today one year later, was spent exploring the beaches of Laguna Beach, again just the two of us. Playing in the tide pools, people watching, observing family photo shoots, window shopping along the artsy streets...and soaking in the bright, sunny, beautiful day. With my iPhone camera, polaroid camera, Nikon, and of course my one and only Brent... Perfection!

:: January 29, 2012 ::

Any idea what you were doing January 29, 2011? Very different or similar to today? Missed you all, I expect to back on track with regular blogging soon. Love you all! xo

P.S. my simple pleasures for the weekend were:

Laughing until my sides hurt & tears ran down my eyes

Spending time with dear friends

Breaking a bundt cake but channeled Tim Gunn and 'made it work'

Sleeping in past 8:00 AM!

Watching other photographers in their element

3 hours of boardgames

A much needed text message from a dear, dear friend

Swimming 65 laps without taking a break

30 Days of Gratitude

2011-11-30T21:13:00.001-08:00

Oh my wonderful, wonderful blog followers. How I miss you. Life has been a swirl of craziness and my free time has been pretty nonexistent. Not in a bad way though, it's been filled with moving to a new place, photography jobs, lots of family gatherings, baking up a storm, babysitting...but as always, thank you for stopping by and I am grateful for all my readers! ♥ That being said, here is the rest of my 30 days of Gratitude!

::Day 13::

I am grateful for the gift of photography. It has truly made my life better!

::Day 13::

I am grateful for new places to explore! For little weekend getaways to recharge.

::Day 14::

I am grateful for gum. Stupid I know, but I love my gum, you won't find me without a pack! It helps me concentrate.

::Day 15::

I am grateful for new friends!

::Day 16::

I am grateful for the beach. Can't say it enough.

::Day 17::

I am grateful for companionship.

::Day 18::

I am grateful for my new Polaroid camera! So fun to play with and I have always wanted one :)

::Day 19::

I am grateful for all the encouragement I receive from everyone...friends, family, strangers, even the perfect saying.

::Day 20::

I am grateful for those moments of inexplicable beauty.

::Day 21::

I am grateful for our upcoming Christmas vacation in Idaho! I need a break and I love it up there.

::Day 22::

I am grateful for a plate of hot, homemade cookies! Mmmm

::Day 23::

I am grateful that 3 of my 4 grandparents are still around. I feel very very lucky!

::Day 24::

I am grateful for family gatherings. I love my family, I love Brent's family and a day centered around family, food, and being Thankful? Yes please!

::Day 25::

I am grateful for leftovers. Nothing like a good Thanksgiving leftover sandwich!

::Day 26::

I am grateful for other friends who share my passion for photography!

::Day 27::

I am grateful for Fall. My favorite season is almost gone but not quite!

::Day 28::

I am grateful for days of acting like a kid!

::Day 29::

I am grateful for knowing I can follow my dreams.

::Day 30::

I am grateful for life's wonderful everyday moments.

Pinch Me, I'm Dreaming

2011-11-21T11:49:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago, I was fortunate enough to attend Camp Shutter Sisters, a gathering of 70+ women all bonded by a passion for photography. Most had formed previous relationships through the website of Shutter Sisters, and participation in online photography classes led by the talented Tracey Clark...and were now finally meeting in person for a photography inspired extravaganza. Women from different corners of the world, from every part of the US, Canada, England, and beyond, everyone of different ages, with different hairstyles, accents, camera gear all united in one place. To say it felt surreal is an understatement!

Spanning over 3 days, it was hard to believe I wasn't dreaming. Starting with recognizing familiar faces and names of women who I had formed special online friendships with over the past few years. Moving on to admiring the homey little details so carefully placed around us from candles to blankets to vintage cameras, homemade banners and signs, welcome gifts and surprises. And every moment during those 3 days there was a story to be shared, a conversation to be had, a new friend to meet, a camera technique to learn, a bond of sisterhood to be formed.

It sounds a little cheesy but being the youngest camper in attendance, I felt like a baby bird being nudged from the nest. I often need a little encouragement and this experience, these women, were just the push I needed. The level of acceptance and encouragement I felt was through the roof with everyone making me feel like the sky is the limit for both my photography and my life. You see, although I feel very mature for my age given my life experiences, I often lack a certain confidence. After too many occurrences of being stopped dead in my tracks when I am on a roll due to some type of health complication, I often face a bit of trepidation to step outside my comfort zone. But since I have been home I feel something changed within me...for good.

After being dragged home against my will, I wrote down every last detail that I never want to forget, as well as all the dreams and ideas that were sparked. It has taken me this long to share my experiences because every time I tried, nothing I said or wrote seemed to accurately depict the feeling of sisterhood we all shared. The feeling of lifelong friendships being formed. The feeling that we were all meant to be there at that time. The feeling that we were all a part of something bigger than us. The feeling that anything was possible, that we could go out and follow our dreams and give ourselves permission to do so. The feeling that we could wish for anything, and leave behind our fears. It was like we were in a little bubble of love and support, filled with women all so different yet so the same.

That being said, let me give you a little glimpse into those few days...

Lindsey and I made the best of the 7 hour drive, filled with camp excitement, life stories, and photography talk.

We finally arrived at the Asilomar Conference Grounds in Pacific Grove... "A Refuge by the Sea."

We were welcomed in style with a beautiful care package...

...and with fun, colorful decorations.

We roamed the grounds in the early mornings...

...and explored late at night.

We had late night visitors...

...and beautiful early morning light.

Warm cups, full plates, and plenty of treats were enjoyed in the upscale camp style 'mess hall'.

We were surrounded by inspirational words and sayings...

...and heard wonderful quotes and poems.

We printed our photos and inspired each other...

...and acted silly and shared laughs together.

With rustic lodging, campfires and s'mores,

...it sure did have that cozy camp vibe.

We explored the beach...

...even with the heavy fog.

We played with the enchanting Lens Baby...

and admired it's dreamy feel.

We took workshops with the masters about light, self portraits, polaroids, editing software...

...finding your niche, iphoneography, composition, macro, & more.

I could fill an entire post just with photos of my new friends!

Can't wait for next year!

30 Days of Gratitude Day 12

2011-11-12T22:03:00.001-08:00

Today I am thankful for opportunities, for people taking a chance on me, and for having faith in me. I recently began assisting an established & talented wedding photographer and I am having so much fun with it and have already learned so much! It is challenging and rewarding and I feel blessed to have been given this opportunity.

Simple Pleasures Saturday #8

2011-11-12T21:52:00.001-08:00

What simple little things are bringing you joy today & over the weekend? For me...

Sleeping until 8
Shopping alone
Having extra birthday money to spend
Making whopper milkshakes with my cousin
Baby smiles
Eating hot chili while listening to the rain
S'more martini

I hope you are having a glorious weekend! xo

30 Days of Gratitude: Playing Catch Up

2011-11-11T18:50:00.000-08:00

A week's worth of Gratitude...

(in no particular order of course)

::Day 5::

I am grateful for my Dad.

My wonderful, talented, warmhearted Dad.

I am grateful for having a father who loves me unconditionally

and who I know would do anything for me.

Anything.

I am grateful for the bond we share.

::Day 6::

I am grateful for my pets, past & present. This is Bonnie ♥

I am grateful for their unconditional love, and for holding

a special place in my heart.

::Day 7::

I am grateful for coffee & tea. I vacillate between the two, and even though caffeine unfortunately has barely any effect on me, I love the routine of waking up and starting the morning with a hot cup o' something. Mmm yum yum!

::Day 8::

I am grateful for blue jeans. I live in my jeans, and can't imagine not being able to wear them as much as I do...good thing I

1. work from home, and

2. can wear almost anything with camera in hand

::Day 9::

I am so so incredibly grateful that I survived cancer and thankful for how much it has shaped the woman I am today.

::Day 10::

I am grateful for art. I cannot imagine life without it...without creating it, without looking at it... My mom is an artist, now I am an artist, in 2 totally different ways. I am grateful for the artistic genes my mama passed down my way through the gene pool.

::Day 11::

I am grateful for this guy. The most kindhearted boyfriend ever.

I am grateful for the support he provides.

I am grateful for having a better half who sticks by me when times are at the absolute worst.

I am grateful for the laughs, the love, and the growth.

And on 11/11/11 I wish for a lifetime of happiness with him.

Wishing & Hoping

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

Looking up, the clock turns to 11:11 and without much thought I make a wish. Again and again this seems to happen, night after night. It began with a friend I grew up with who always made a point to make a wish at this time, and although I never joined her, at some point it seemed to have wiggled its way into my mind. I don't think I even consciously look at the clock at that time but somehow I just happen to glance at my phone, the TV, the clock, right at that moment.

Wishing, dreaming, hoping, crossing our fingers...why not add a little good luck to our lives? We all like to seek good fortune in our own ways and today, on 11/11/11 why not make a wish, just in case?

The fact that it is a once in a lifetime date made me think in general about how moments pass so quickly and then they are gone. But is not everyday a 'once in a lifetime date'? At the end of the day, at the end of a moment, an experience, what we are left with is a memory. But on this day, this day-oh-wishes, I have plenty of wishes but for one, I wish that we can all slow down, live with intention, and remember what it is that makes us happy, making a mental note not to forget them, & making those memories count. It seems to be a very vague wish, this I realize, but something that I try to think about everyday. And so here, on 11/11/11, I wish for your happiness. And because I think the power of positive thinking is absolutely magical, if all of us at 11/11/11 make a collective wish at the same time, it is bound to come true! Happy Friday & cheers to your wishes!

Simple Pleasures Saturday #7

2011-11-05T22:41:00.000-07:00

Life gets busy. Very busy. I miss my Simple Pleasures Saturday posts!! If you are new to my blog, I like to acknowledge the simple pleasures I am enjoying on Saturdays and always love to hear what little things are making you smile today, or any day!

The simple pleasures I am enjoying today:

Watching the movie Hook, one of my favorite movies as a kid
Homemade Pizza
Getting a super early Christmas gift
Laughing hysterically on the phone with my mom
Relaxing in the jacuzzi
A late birthday gift
Breathing in crisp, Autumn air

Tell me, what little things are you enjoying this weekend?

30 Days of Gratitude Day 4

2011-11-05T16:22:00.000-07:00

::Day 4::

I am grateful for rain. We don't get it very often in southern California but when we do, I love it. I almost moved to Seattle to go to college at UW but decided on San Francisco instead. It is crazy to think how different life would be had I moved to Seattle, but I couldn't be happier with how things turned out. That being said, anytime the rain makes an appearance, I like to pretend I am in the Northwest, although I am pretty sure I couldn't rock flip flops!

30 Days of Gratitude

2011-11-03T21:47:00.000-07:00

::Day 2::

I am grateful for the quiet time in the morning I get to myself before I start work.

::Day 3::

I am grateful for how close I am with my mom, and that our birthdays are only 4 days apart.

30 Days of Gratitude

2011-11-03T14:26:00.000-07:00

What better to celebrate the season of giving thanks than 30 days of recognizing what I grateful in this life by participating in the 30 day Gratitude Project on Flickr.

::Day 1::

I am grateful for all the love and support in my life.

Support in the day-to-day as well as when I need it most.

Black Bean, Sausage, & Sweet Potato Soup

2011-10-13T19:16:00.000-07:00

I love food. I love cooking it, eating it, smelling it, reading about it, looking at it.... and I know this love was directly passed down from my mom, Lisa.

I am lucky that my mom is the amazing cook that she is. Growing up I loved to eat her food, and my brother and I have so many shared food-related memories. I decided I want to make a recipe book featuring some of my favorite recipes of hers, paired with photos of the food. So I came up with an idea to stay motivated to do so: I will make something every week, share the recipe with you to enjoy, and maybe share a tip or two that I have learned regarding food photography...something that is not easy. (By the way the photo below is just taken with my iPhone...not off to a great start but it will do).And who knows...maybe when I am done, you could win a copy of the recipe book! :) So here is one my favorite soup recipes from my wonderful mother, perfect for Fall. Enjoy!

P.S. want a cute place to write down this recipe? I stumbled across these free recipe printables from a beautiful food blog called Scissors.Paper.Rock. Click here!

::Black Bean, Sausage, & Sweet Potato Soup::

3 Cans of Black Beans
3 Garlic Cloves, minced
1 Bay Leaf
1/4 tsp. Ground Allspice
4 Cups Chicken Broth
1Tablespoon Tomato Paste
1/2 pound kielbasa or other smoked sausage
1/2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
1 lb Sweet Potatoes
3 Scallions, chopped
Sour cream for garnish (optional)

In a 4 Quart saucepan simmer beans, garlic, bay leaf, allspice, & broth, partially covered, about 20 minutes. Discard the bay leaf. in a blender puree 1 cup of the beans with 1 cup cooking liquid and return to the pan.

In a small bowl site together tomato paste and 1 Tablespoon of water and store into beans with sausage and worcestershire sauce. Simmer soup, covered, for 15 minute. (Soup can be prepared up to this point 3 days ahead, cooled uncovered and chilled covered).

While soup is simmering, peel sweet potatoes and cut into 1/2" pieces. Steam in a steamer until tender, about 10 minutes. Stir potatoes, scallions, and salt & pepper to taste into soup.

Garnish with scallion greens and if desired, sour cream. Enjoy!

Ten on Ten - Fall Style

2011-10-10T22:37:00.000-07:00

I love Fall, and I love 10 on 10!

Scratching your head wondering what '10 on 10' is?

10 consecutive photos every hour on the 10th of the month.

P.S. October is my favorite month of the year!

Click below to check out more 10 on 10 projects!

Happy to Be Alive

2011-09-21T23:48:00.001-07:00

You know those moments when you feel so happy to be alive? I am so overcome with that feeling right now. I feel like a little kid hopped up on sugar and I just want to jump all around! But instead of injuring myself (trust me I would haha) I will just share what is on my mind.

I have been a little absent from my blog as of late because life has just been crazy lately. My aunt got really sick and had to focus most of my attention there, while trying to keep up with work, photo projects, building my website, and just keep pace with life in general. I cannot believe it is already the end of September..the last month has been a complete blur! I have been making to do lists everyday and majorly prioritizing because with everything on my plate I know it won't all get done.

But with that said, amidst all the chaos I just feel so much lately like things are coming together. The last few years have been such a struggle with my back pain...completely unable to live my life for 2 years due to debilitating pain had me convinced I could never regain a state of normalcy again. Finally, the pain has slowly but surely started to improve (after no explanation of what it was). I now have a part time job, I have been with my amazing boyfriend Brent for 3 years as of yesterday, I am having so much fun learning and growing with my photography, and to top it off, over the weekend I went on a 5 mile hike - something I have not done since before I was diagnosed at age 12! And although I could not walk for a day after, just the fact that I was able to do something like this is so incredible.

Today was a great day. I photographed Brent's nephew who is now 3 months old and tonight I attended and photographed a beer tasting event which helped both 1.raise money and 2.establish a group of passionate young professionals for PCRF - Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation. At one point, I spoke to a mom whose 6 year old daughter is winning her battle against Leukemia. As I shared my story with her and watched her face light up with encouragement when I spoke about how far I have come, it just further cemented what I already know: I absolutely must in some form or another use my story to inspire and encourage current patients and their families.

Despite my years of doubting it was possible, I feel like I finally have my life and my self back. I have goals again. I have dreams, and I have hope for the future. I want to help people, I want to share the beauty of the world through my photography, and I want to somehow intersect the two.

Honestly, it is hard at times not to worry about the future...long term affects of the cancer, how my pain will affect me, etc. But I remind myself every day how life is such a gift and really do my best to focus on enjoying the moment rather than be concerned about what may or may not happen. And as more and more pieces of my life's puzzle seem to fit together, I feel more encouraged and just... indescribably happy to be alive.
xo

Picture Summer Day 26: A Spin on Summer

2011-09-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

Picture Summer Day 25: Silhouettes

2011-09-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

Remember those days?

Picture Summer Day 24: Barefootin'

2011-09-14T17:21:00.000-07:00

No shoes, no shirt, no problems

Blues what blues..hey i forgot 'em

The sun and the sand and a drink in my hand with no bottom

and no shirt, no shirt, n' no problems

No problems

-Kenny Chesney

Summer still has that effect on me. I think that feeling you had as a kid, getting a break from school, itching to get outside and play... and even though we don't get those same Summer Breaks, the mental state still seems to remain. The sun on my face, going barefoot...instant calm.

Picture Summer Day 23: Larger Than Life

2011-09-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

I love this photo because it says so much. We recently took a weekend getaway to Los Angeles and a large majority of the trip consisted of my taking hundreds of photos, and Brent oh-so-patiently waiting and telling me to come along when I lingered too long. Here we are waiting to cross the street, and as the light turned green, he is grabbing for my hand, letting me know it is time to go...

Picture Summer Day 22: Life is But a Dream

2011-09-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

The gleam of Summer with a glimpse of Fall

10 Years Ago..

2011-09-11T15:18:00.000-07:00

It is pretty amazing to think how much has happened in ten years. So much, yet at the same time it is hard to believe a full decade has passed since the devastating tragedy on September 11th, 2001.

I think there is something about sharing what we remember from that day - a tribute of sorts. By recalling our reaction, where we were, and how we felt on that day. This morning I was sitting with my two aunts on the couch watching the memorial they did on TV, watching the names being read of all those who lost their lives on that day. We were all so emotional as we were again reminded of the gravity of that day and how some had their lives deeply changed forever.

I will never forget it. It was only a year and a half after I was diagnosed but I had already undergone all my treatment, I was attending my first year of high school, and I was in a wheelchair at that point.

5:00 AM - woke up with the worst headache I have ever had. Ever. Felt like my head was going to split in two and I still remember the feeling.

5:05 AM - got out of bed, and my dad was already awake. So we turned on the news I popped some advil and sprawled on the couch, completely unaware of what we were about to see.

5:46 AM - the first plane crashed into the World Trade Center

6:00 AM - call from my mom, she was on vacation visiting my grandparents in New York, her first ever trip to New York!! We received a call from her shortly after that she was fine and a good distance from the site.

I have only had one migraine in my life. 10 years ago to the day. The pain was so bad I was unable to formulate words and I stayed home as we all watched the TV in awe.

What do you remember from that day? Sending love to all the hurt & loss produced from this devastation. ♥

Picture Summer: Day 19, 20, 21

2011-09-11T12:01:00.000-07:00

Day 19: When Order is in Order

I find repeating patterns and shapes very calming.

When surrounded by chaos, such a visual reminder can provide that sense of order you need.

Day 20: Spacey

Similarly to a sense of order, choosing to shoot a photo with an excess of negative space calms me. It simplifies the shot, focusing on the subject matter and drawing you in. Looking at a photo with negative space feels like taking a deep breathe of fresh air.

Day 21: Girl Put Your Records On

Rise up this mornin',

Smile with the risin' sun,

Three little birds

Pitch by my doorstep

Singin' sweet songs

Of melodies pure and true,

Sayin', "This is my message to you-ou-ou:"

Singin' "Don't worry, about a thing, worry about a thing, oh!

Every little thing, gonna be alright. Don't worry!"

Singin': "Don't worry about a thing" - I won't worry!

"Cause every little thing gonna be alright."

Ten on Ten - September - iPhone style

2011-09-11T10:42:00.000-07:00

Life has been extremely hectic, hence the iPhone version this month. I couldn't pass it up! If you are unfamiliar with the concept, it is 1 photo every hour for 10 consecutive hours on the 10th of every month.

Floral Beauties

Mickey escaped in the grocery store

After the storm

Tibetan Prayer Flags

Ohhh clock

Dog Walker

Fall is just around the corner...

Don't worry, be happy!

Night time drive

Goodnight!

To check out more 10 on 10 projects click below.

I hope everyone is having a wonderful weekend!

Picture Summer Day 17 & 18

2011-09-08T21:04:00.000-07:00

Day 17: Visual Interest

We have had really tropical weather lately, so different from the normal end of summer weather. We spent a nice weekend at my mom's house and while we were sitting out at the pool in the warm sun and blue skies, a dark cloud rolled in, poured rain for 10 minutes then rolled away revealing blue skies again. It was so weird! We were all in our bathing suits, huddle under the little cabana like little kids in awe of the rain.

Day 18: Playtime

I have a wonderful memory of flying a kite with my dad not long after I was sick. I was so bored of being cooped up in the house, and he had the idea of going to the kite store in town, picking out a kite and going to the beach. We finally chose one, can't really remember the shape but thinking a butterfly? We walked down the street and had such a fun time laughing & playing at the beach. This kite was down at the Santa Monica pier and for some reason it made me think of that day with my dad.

Picture Summer Day 16: Summer Light

2011-09-06T19:35:00.000-07:00

"When You Possess Light Within, You see it externally." ~Anais Nin

Picture Summer Day 15: Picture Postcard

2011-09-05T14:16:00.000-07:00

Picture Summer Day 14: Summer Breeze

2011-09-04T08:00:00.000-07:00

We recently took a weekend getaway trip to Los Angeles (more pictures to come). This was the outdoor patio of our hotel and it was so relaxing! Open, bright, with the summer breeze swaying the curtains...I soaked it all in. Turn the corner outside of the hotel and you are in downtown Beverly Hills, enter this patio and feel like you are at a tropical resort! We were only there overnight and it was just the retreat I needed.

Simple Pleasures Saturday #9

2011-09-03T22:38:00.001-07:00

Today we came out to my mom and stepdad's house for a visit. Their backyard is tropical and relaxing with a beautiful pool, palm trees, and of course 3 dogs and 3 cats. Above is Bonnie, she's my girl.
The simple pleasures I enjoyed today:
•Playing with their new kitten Lexie
•Cooking with my mom
•Laughing hysterically for the hundredth time at the Flight of Concords "Business Time" video
•Chocolate cherry cake for dessert
•The sound of crickets
•83 degrees in the pool
•Getting teeny tiny kitten kisses
I hope your weekend is off to a great start. What simple pleasures are you enjoying?
xo

Picture Summer Day 13: Juicy Fruit

2011-09-03T08:00:00.000-07:00

One of the things I look forward to most about summer is the abundance of fruit. Cherries, berries, peaches, plums, apricots....oh I will miss them come Fall!

Picture Summer Day 12: Simple Solitude

2011-09-02T17:36:00.000-07:00

Never be afraid to sit awhile and think.

-Lorraine Hansberry, A Raisin in the Sun

Picture Summer Day 11: Treat Yourself

2011-09-01T22:15:00.000-07:00

It's hot outside! Cool down with a popsicle. My feet hurt from all this walking! Get a pedicure. I'm thirsty! Make a refreshing iced tea. We have too much fruit! Bake a pie. I'm stressed! Sit in the sun. I'm bored! Kick up your heels and read a book. I'm hungry! Snack on some juicy watermelon. Oh the possibilities are endless. Treat yourself to a little summertime joy today while it is still here.

Picture Summer Day 10: Making Memories

2011-08-31T19:46:00.000-07:00

I grew up in a family of surfers. My Dad and brother tried to teach me when I was younger, but I was always more interested in swimming than surfing. However, I am actually am at the point where I would love to learn but I am held back by physical limitations. I do think I can get there at some point but in the meantime, I am perfectly content watching Brent and friends from the shore & of course documenting the fun!

Picture Summer Day 9: The Shape of Things

2011-08-30T16:29:00.000-07:00

For life is but a dream whose shapes return, some frequently, some seldom, some by night and some by day.

-James Thomson

Picture Summer Day 8: Treasure Hunters

2011-08-30T16:06:00.000-07:00

I love to search for heart rocks. Not only is it exciting to find a good one, but it also relaxes me and clears my mind. Sitting on the beach, watching the ocean, soaking in the sunshine, all while I methodically sort through rocks. You would be surprised as to how often they show up...give it a try!

Picture Summer Day 7: So Subtle

2011-08-28T08:00:00.000-07:00

Summer has two personalities. The bright, vibrant, bustling side & the subtle side that is preparing to retreat into Autumn. The latter isn't as obvious but I like to switch into observation mode and seek it out.

Simple Pleasures Saturday #8

2011-08-28T01:35:00.001-07:00

This weekend we are on a mini "fake-cation" - as we have dubbed it. Meaning, we took a little trip but just an hour and half north to Los Angeles. Here was our day: We drove up this morning and wandered the Santa Monica pier, Muscle Beach, 3rd street promenade and downtown, then drove 6 miles to Beverly Hills to check into our cute little treasure of a hotel. We explored the nearby neighborhoods, our jaws dropping in awe of the humongous houses, followed by dinner at a great Indian restaurant.

It was a great day and exactly the getaway I needed. And after living so close all my life I'm surprised I have never been to this part of L.A. The pier and Muscle Beach sure were a sight to see! I will post pictures from the trip when I'm back home but for now, (as I type on my phone from the hotel) here are the simple pleasures I enjoyed today:

-Eating a hot dog and churro for lunch
-Taking photos of everything, and having a boyfriend who patiently waits as I do so
-Being completely touristy
-Getting a major kick out of people watching
-Poking Brent every 10 minutes saying "isn't this so fun!....this is so fun!...aren't you having fun??" ha :)
-Making up pretend stories of the people living in the enormous Beverly Hills houses
-Seeing endless teeny tiny dogs
-Passing by "Chelsea Blvd"!!!
-Only driving 1.5 hours to be on a vacation
-Having complimentary cookies delivered to our hotel room
-Passing by "Chelsea Avenue"!!!!

Picture Summer Day 6: Wide Open Spaces

2011-08-27T08:00:00.000-07:00

She needs wide open spaces

Room to make her big mistakes

She needs new faces

She knows the high stakes

-Dixie Chicks

Liberate Your Art!!

2011-08-26T13:57:00.000-07:00

I recently participated in an incredible project called the Liberate your Art Postcard Swap organized by Kat Sloma. In exchange for 5 postcards that I created, I would receive 5 in return from participants all over the world! There were no rules for the postcards, it could be a collage, drawing, photograph...anything! You can read more about the actual sending process here.

When all was said and done, there were 175 participants, from 13 countries and 37 U.S. states - how cool is that? I had a very hard time choosing which photos to send & unfortunately I did not take a picture of which I sent. But I am hoping I will find out who received mine! They came one by one, and it was so exciting to check the mail everyday. Let me show you what I got:

::Postcard #1 - Marji in Seattle, Washington::

What a beauty, and it looks like something I might take doesn't it? She is going to school to study encaustic art & photography, and her Flickr name is RainCityGirl. Does this sound like someone I would be friends with or what? We even follow a lot of the same blogs so I am surprised we have never crossed paths. P.S. Marji - I LOVE Seattle, almost went to UW, love the rain and art & photography are kinda my passion. Yep! ♥ Thanks for the beautiful postcard I love it! Please visit her blog Sun Breaks in the Forecast and say hello, I know I will!

::Postcard #2 - Rosa in Scotland::

Isn't this postcard wonderful? Rosa grew up in Melbourne, Australia, and has also lived in Toronto, Canada, Hong Kong, & vacations in Scottland/UK. Wow! I think it is so amazing to connect through art to someone half-way around the world! On her postcard was written:

"Don't compromise yourself. You are all you've got." - Janis Joplin

What a powerful and inspiring quote, especially from one artist to another. And this is just how her website, Simple Mansion is...nothing but inspiration, encouragement, and positive thinking. Her one of a kind work of art is so unique and her creativity just shines through. Thank you for sharing your art with me Rosa!♥

::Postcard #3 - Ann in Kent, England::

Her blog, Poetic Mapping: Walking into Art combines her 4 passions of writing, art, walking and music. This beautiful postcard has a fascinating story behind it, you must read about it here! Not only is she an incredible artist but she is striving to save to the world. That is lofty & trite expression, yes, but visit her blog and see what I mean. This quote she posted says it all:

“How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single

moment before starting to improve the world.” – Anne Frank

Ann you are an inspiration and I am so happy have been introduced to you and your blog! Thank you for the postcard.♥

::Postcard #4 - Clara in Pennsylvania::

The 4th is a treasure from the opposite side of the country. Like me, her blog started as a place to document her life (she has 2 boys) to share with family, then it turned into a place to share her passion for photography. This photo is of the Statue of Chief Justice John Marhsall she took during a World Wide photo walk. That sounds amazing - sign me up! She said although it was 99 degrees, it was a blast. She included this powerful quote on the postcard:

"To listen well is as powerful a means of communication

and influence as to talk well." - John Marshall

Visit her blog: I Miei Due Bambini. Thanks Clara!♥

::Postcard #5 - Colorado Springs, Colorado::

Unfortunately, the location is all I know! She has a website but it says she has retired. Written on the back is "The Mysterious Series" - pretty fitting yes? I believe her name is Angela but I am not positive. Whoever you are, thank you for the beautiful postcard! ♥

::Postcard #6 - Bonus from Kat in Oregon

Look at that blue - so beautiful!! You can check out all her photos at her blog: The Kat Eye View of the World. Thanks for all the hard work Kat! ♥

This was such a joyous project to be a part of. I love to see how different everyone's style of art is, how every postcard was from a different part of the world, the different styles of handwriting, and what message they chose to impart. It was such a wonderful way to connect with other people who I otherwise would have never met! There will be a 2012 edition that I will most definitely not miss!

Picture Summer Day 5: Tall Drink of Water

2011-08-26T08:10:00.000-07:00

Summer may be winding down but the temperatures sure aren't! It was 95 in the backyard yesterday, which I know is cooler than other parts of the country and beyond but for me, well, it was hot :)

Picture Summer Day 4: Summer Traditions

2011-08-25T08:00:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we attended the Stone Brewing Co. 15th Anniversary Celebration. Brent & went for the first time last year & we were instantly hooked. You get a commemerative tasting glass & 10 beer tastings with the choice of over 100 beers from over 40 different breweries and it is held outside on the Cal State San Marcos campus. Sunshine, beer, free beer cheese & crackers...what could be better? My brother conveniently lives near the train station in Oceanside so we hop on the train there and back, easy-peasy! And of course we had an incredible feast to continue the festivities, and there was enough food to feed an army. I love Summer barbecues, get togethers, and this festival has become an annual tradition.

Picture Summer Day 3: Getting Centered

2011-08-24T19:03:00.000-07:00

Summertime just beckons me outdoors. I feel a pull, a call to enjoy the sunshine, the beach, the endless possibilities of activities. I feel incredibly spoiled living where I do because there is barely any humidity and it doesn't get overwhelmingly hot, but therein lies the problem. How can we be expected to stay inside & be productive with the temptation of all that summer has to offer? By getting centered. Finding that balance between much needed enjoyment & being a responsible adult. For me, a walk to the beach and back will satisfy that craving for summer temptation. Summer will be gone before we know it, so soak it up & allow yourself to have a bit of fun - you deserve it! ♥

Picture Summer Day 2: Splashy

2011-08-23T18:34:00.000-07:00

The ocean, the pool, the sprinklers in your backyard...

There is nothing like cool refreshing water to beat the heat on a hot summer day.

Even the animals need a little cooling off!

Picture Summer Day 1 : Here Comes the Sun!

2011-08-22T19:27:00.000-07:00

With one month left of Summer 2011, I couldn't think of a better way to celebrate & chronicle the season than with 30 photos of the essentials with Tracey Clark's Picture Summer class.

My quintessential summer day? The beach.

Fun in the Sun

2011-08-15T18:49:00.000-07:00

I like that even though summer is not quite the same when you are a kid, you seem to value those summer escapes that much more. An early morning walk on the beach, the county fair, cooling down with frozen yogurt, bike rides around town, and nice weather. Here are the last few weeks of photo taken with my iPhone. With 5 weeks of summer left, I hope you soak up every ounce of your very parts!

Simple Pleasures Saturday #7

2011-08-13T21:45:00.001-07:00

Can you believe it is already the second weekend of August? Our weekends are booked up this entire month which always makes the time fly by at lightening-quick speed. I hope you are having a great weekend so far!

After a restless night of about 4 hours of sleep, I got up at 6 AM, went to an all day 8:30-4:30 photography workshop in Huntington Beach, then met Brent at 4:45 and we drove up to the Orange County fair, and it is now 9:30 PM, just got home, and I feel like my feet, ankles, knees and back are all going to break off my body. Ahh did you like that nice run-on sentence? That's pretty much how my day felt. But in a wonderful kind of way!!!

My simple pleasures from today:
• Winning a raffle drawing for a flash diffuser at the workshop.. I never win stuff!
• Having a photography concept that always stumped me finally click (pun intended)
• Having a beginner photographer ask me for help
• Seeing a beautiful dragonfly float right in front of me
• Finding a desperately needed seat after too much walking
• Silliness in a photo booth picture
• Watching a pie eating contest
• Sensory overload at the fair
• Indulging in ridiculous fried food
• Pajamas + ice pack + couch

It was long day but really wonderful. Tell me...what little, simple joys filled your Saturday?

Just the Two of Us - Version 2

2011-08-12T00:05:00.000-07:00

Please stop by at Mortal Muses to see my guest post!!

Hand-in-Hand

Side-by-Side

You & Me

10 on 10 - August 2011

2011-08-10T22:06:00.000-07:00

10 on 10. 1 photo every hour for 10 consecutive hours on the 10th of the month. Hooray! Here is what my day looked like...

8:00 - 2 mile walk

9:00 - Cup o' tea w/ my new rubber ducky tea infuser

10:00 - Work was a blur

11:00 - Quick walk to the mailbox to mail a letter to Grandma

12:00 - Comfy in my flannel

1:00 - Boiling water for a pick me up afternoon cup of tea

2:00 - Ella back from the groomer

3:00 - Picking out some tea for a friend's birthday

4:00 - A much needed frozen yogurt after today's workday

5:00 - Home safe.

To catch a glimpse into some other 10 on 10 projects, click below

To see my past 10 on 10 projects, click HERE!

Baby Steps

2011-08-10T15:19:00.000-07:00

I feel I am on the verge of a new and better me. I have tackled some major obstacles lately, my back feels better, I have the new job and I am working hard to learn and grow with my photography. But I still feel a little stuck. A little unsure of where it is all headed, and a little frazzled as to where to take it. However, I remind myself daily of how far I have come, even in the last year. I am no longer 100% focused on pain or convinced I will be confined to a life of chronic pain. I am doing things for myself, and I am staying positive along the way.

Like anything new, I am working to get rid of the kinks. What I want and don't want, like and don't like, need and don't need. Who I want to be. And a note to self:

One step at time. Little, measured, careful baby steps. You will get there, you have your whole life ahead. Don't rush. Stop worrying so much about the future and enjoy today.

In the words of Tracey Clark: "I don't know what it's going to be, but it's going to be awesome."

Scavenger Hunt Sunday, er... Tuesday

2011-08-02T18:43:00.000-07:00

Remember when summer meant being lazy and lounging around with no obligations when you were a kid? Not the case anymore. So far summer has been the busiest part of the year for me. I didn't get a chance to post my Scavenger Hunt photos on Sunday, so here there are...Scavenger Hunt Tuesday eh? Here were my finds for the week:

::Walking Empty Streets::

::Repeating Patterns::

::Floor::

::Then and Now::

::Fingertips::

Hope you are having a great beginning of the week! ♥

A Week in the Life: Day 7 - The End

2011-08-01T21:30:00.000-07:00

What a way to end the week. Brent's parents bought the family tickets to see Shrek the Musical at the Pantages theater in Los Angeles as a Christmas present. We marked it on the calendar back in December and here we are - half a year later! All of my pictures today were taken on my phone so I wouldn't kicked out of the theater with my big girl camera, and decided to keep things cohesive. We awoke to unexpected yet welcomed rain and by 9:00 we left the house and all drove up to L.A.

Took some photos along the way which I immediately regretted due to the fact that I get motion sick very easily...just looking down for a minute will make me nauseous. No bueno.

We had reservations for a cute little restaurant called Off Vine just a block off of Sunset Blvd.

It was a really cute house-turned-restaurant with a nice outside patio and good food.

Bottomless Mimosas and Bloody Marys,

Cinnamon bunletts (yes bunletts)

and a wide variety of brunch yumminess to fit everyone's taste buds. Twist my arm why don't ya!

Kind of funny, I have lived in California my entire life, never more than a few hours from L.A. but have never once been to Hollywood! We didn't spend really any time exploring, but someday I will - someday.

Shrek was a great show. It was so light and fun with incredibly impressive makeup, costumes, singing and acting. The Pantages was a beautiful theater, so ornate and sparkly on the inside.

We finally got back to town around 6:00 and made a quick stop at the store to pick up dinner.

A nice summery meal, grilled pesto chicken sandwiches and potato salad.

A few hours to relax, then bed.

♥ ♥ ♥

It is amazing how fast one week can go by. I took on this Week in the Life Project very last minute, knowing that I already had way too much on my plate but something told me to go for it. And even though the process was a bit time consuming, it almost slowed things down. It unintentionally turned into a week of reflection through focusing on every moment and feeling, learning some things about myself and feeling so lucky to have what I have. It will be interesting to do this project again and see what, if anything has changed. One thing I really thought about was priorities and what long-term goals I am striving toward in my life, many of which are already a reality:

♥To be happy

♥To enjoy my profession

♥To be in a loving relationship

♥To have passions and incorporate them in my life

♥Stay in touch with friends

♥Document it all

♥Finish my college degree

♥See my family often

♥Make a difference

♥Help others

♥Share my story

♥Find beauty and share it

♥Laugh and smile often

♥Live in the moment and not worry so much about the future

I am so glad I chose to participate, but I am happy to have one less thing to do each day!

To see what you missed, here was the rest of my week:

Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, Day 4, Day 5, Day 6

A Week in the Life: Day 6

2011-07-31T21:15:00.000-07:00

Day 6 :: July 30, 2011

Saturdays...yay for Saturdays. It is pretty nice having my own personal barista, it is even better than a coffee shop! I worked a bit on photo editing, blogging etc. while we enjoyed our coffee & breakfast.

Our friends Jordan and Kaitlin invited us to the beach. When they picked us up, Kaitlin brought us a box of salt water taffy from her family reunion to Delaware last week, one of my favorite things in this world to eat.

We went to Trails 1 at San Onofre. It is a state park so the beaches usually aren't as packed as a public beach. You have to hike down a huge hill before you get there but it is completely worth it. Jordan and Kaitlin and Brent surfed while I took photos, hunted for treasures, and soaked up the sun - yay for summer!

After the beach we went to a Mexican taco stand in Dana Point called Aurora's. On the weekends they barbecue whole chickens and for $6 you can get half a chicken, beans, rice, tortillas and salsa. We were all so hungry, we just sat in silence as we blissfully scarfed down our food. I never ever drink soda, but I had a sip of this ice cold, from the bottle Coca-Cola and it was so refreshing!

We rushed home, showered and prettied up a bit then had a drink with Brent's parents and some of their family who were in town.

We had planned to see a movie but after sun and wine, I was exhausted. So a little snack and cappuccino and I was ready to go!

We saw the final Harry Potter and both loved it. I think did such a great job with the whole series and this last one may have been my favorite of them all, even if it did scare me a bit :)

[Observation]: It is amazing to look at this day and see how much I did. If you have followed my blog at all, you know how much of a problem I have had with chronic pain and a year ago there is no way I could have even sat through a full movie. Not only did I sit through a 2 hour movie but I hiked up and down a steep hill, did a lot of walking and sitting in the car. I still have really difficult days with pain and exhaustion but I finally feel things are moving in the right direction. Over the last few months I have finally had relief with the severity of my pain, allowing me to be more active, spend more time with friends and family, and I am so much happier because of it. The hardest parts of being in pain 24/7 was the feeling of not being able to do what I wanted when I wanted to do it, having pain completely control my life, putting on a happy face so I wouldn't make others feel as miserable as I did, and feeling like none of it would never ever get better. But after 3 years of debilitating back pain, finally getting some relief is absolutely incredible. I feel so fortunate to be alive, so fortunate to have the amazing support from my family and unending patience and understanding from my boyfriend. I truly believe I am supposed to use my story and health history to help others, and this is just all part of that story.

[Favorite part of the day]: Reflecting on the above.

♥ ♥ ♥

Happy Saturday!

Simple Pleasures Saturday #6

2011-07-30T22:11:00.000-07:00

As my mom said to me today, TGIS. I remember doing an "All About Me" project in elementary school where we had to make a big poster with a picture of ourselves and all our favorite things. One of the topics was your favorite day and almost everyone said Friday, I of course said Saturday. Sure Friday has that feeling of "ahhhh I am done, it is the weekend," but Saturday you have the entire day and don't have to go to work the next day (unless of course you work weekends). So won't you join me in acknowledging those simple little pleasures that are making you happy on this fine Saturday? For me...

Receiving a gift of salt water taffy brought all the way from Delaware

Highly entertaining people watching

Waking up and not having to work

A sip of ice cold Coca-Cola from the bottle

A nice glass of wine

Text message from a friend I lost touch with

A piece of very berry coffee cake

♥ Happy Saturday! ♥

A Week in the Life :: Day 5

2011-07-30T09:52:00.000-07:00

Day 5 :: July 29, 2011

What song I am listening to right now: "Down in the Valley" by The Head and the Heart

[Price of gas]: $3.79/ gallon

[Temperature]: 73 degrees F

[Summary of the day]: Breakfast- cottage cheese with peaches and blueberries. Cappuccino. Work. Lunch - Flatbread pizza. Work. Work. Blog. Phone w/ mom. Shower. 30 minute workout. Walk to the mailbox. Subway. Bonfire. Sleep.

[Top news Headlines (just the first ones I saw)]:

"U.S. Running out of Time for Debt Deal"

"Funerals Following the Norway Attack"

"Apple Grabs 2/3 of Mobile Phone Industry Profits"

"Amy Winehouse's Death: Family Suspects Alcohol Withdrawal"

[Movies released today]: "Cowboys & Aliens" - "Crazy, Stupid, Love" - "The Smurfs"

[Current obsession]: Chile Spiced Mango from Trader Joes

[Favorite moment]: Singing along to songs at the bonfire. I can't tell you the last time I sang around a fire..probably at camp? It was hilarious and everyone loved it.

[Observation]: Although it is kind of nice being able to work in my pajamas, I think I am more preductive when I am actually showered, dressed, makeup-ified...

A few photos from my day...

::What I woke up to::

::Cappuccino::

::Lunch::

::A heart-shaped weed growing out of the parking lot::

::On a roll with Qrank scores::

::Stroll to the mailbox::

::Bonfire::

A Week in the Life :: Day 4

2011-07-29T16:42:00.000-07:00

Day 4 :: July 29, 2011

On Thursdays I normally go to Brent's house first thing in the morning and we have breakfast & coffee, sometimes exercise and just relax until he goes to work. But I am currently so busy between photo projects, working, and other goals I am trying to meet, so I stayed home and got right to work.

It was a very busy all day, but I take 10 minute breaks every hour & during that time I managed to Play Qrank...

...write a few postcards...

...clean out some things from my car...

...make a delicious grilled cheese sandwich with cheddar, tomato, grilled zucchini & jalapeño...

...and ate outside in the sun with a hopeful Ella.

By 5:00 I was exhausted. But I went straight into uploading & editing photos. I have been feeling very overwhelmed lately... tending to take on too much at once and push myself to the point of not enough sleep and high stress levels. Brent was planning to meet up with a friend down at the beach to surf, and although I wanted to go I was worn out and kind of crabby. But I knew it would be good for me, and I am so glad I went.

I love big cities, I always have and absolutely loved the time I spend in San Francisco. But especially in the last few years, I have really come to realize just how much I love and need the beach.

I have such fond memories of beach days with my family when I was growing up, I have never lived more than 10 minutes from the Ocean (even when I was in SF), and it is incredibly therapeutic for me.

No matter what mood I am in, the beach always makes me feel so happy and alive - the never-ending beauty, the feeling of walking on wet sand, the sound of crashing waves, the smell of the sticky salty air, and the sunsets.

When we walked down tonight, I immediately felt the stress leave my mind and body and I felt calmer, lighter and happier. The sunset was gorgeous and it seemed to last forever.

♥ ♥ ♥

::Observations:: I base way too many decisions on what I think everyone else wants me to do, and not enough on what I actually want.

::Favorite Moment:: Feeling the incredibly warm ocean wash over my feet.

::Picture of me today:: I call it "no makeup & frizz fest but I don't care"

I hope you had a wonderful day!

A Week in the Life :: Day 3

2011-07-28T23:00:00.000-07:00

Day 3 :: June 27, 2011

Today I just got up & wasn't feeling well so I made tea and did my best to get some work done.

::A cup of feel better tea::

::Breakfast::

::The view from the kitchen::

♥ ♥ ♥

After work I went straight to Brent's sister's house to photograph their new baby... my quasi-nephew as I like to call him.

His name is Drake and he just turned 1 month old, and is he ever cute!

This last month has really been my first time being around a baby.

Don't have a big family and none of my friends have kids yet.

I headed home & edited photos while I watched my favorite guilty pleasure TV shows...Keeping up with the Kardashians, Teen Mom and Big Brother as I edited photos & snacked on cherries.

Does anyone know where the saying life is a bowl of cherries came from? I tried to search for it but didn't find anything concrete. But I did learn there is a happy little song...

Life is just a bowl of cherries
Don't take it serious,
Life's too mysterious
You work,
You save,
You worry so
But you can't take your dough
When you go, go, go

So keep repeating "It's the berries."
The strongest oak must fall
The sweet things in life
To you were just loaned
So how can you lose
What you've never owned

Life is just a bowl of cherries
So live and laugh, aha!
Laugh and love
Live and laugh,
Laugh and love,
Live and laugh at it all!

"Life is Just a Bowl of Cherries" - George Gershwin

Finally, I ate a Drumstick ice cream cone & snuggled with Ella. The best part of those is the very very bottom of the cone that is filled with solid chocolate. YUM.

:: Observations :: This is day 3 of 7 and so far they have all started with me not feeling well. This post seemed all over the place, but that is kind of how I felt today.

:: Favorite Moment :: My first time seeing baby Drake smile.

:: Proud Moment :: My highest score ever on Qrank

A Week in the Life :: Day 2

2011-07-27T22:06:00.000-07:00

Day 2: July 26, 2011

Woke up. Bad dreams. I hate that feeling of waking up after a night of bad dreams, but the nice thing is I had the day off from work so I didn't have to worry about anything when I got up. I went for a swim and it was particularly tough, must have been because of how tired I was but I powered through. It felt like backwards day today, no work, I wasn't hungry for breakfast so I skipped it, and I made a latte at noon. My morning:

Swim...

...shower and makeup...

...feed the fish...

...food...

...music...

...more music while I accomplished some photo projects.

Tuesdays are Brent's afternoons off and we had planned to go to the Sawdust Festival in Laguna Beach, something I look forward to it every year.

It is an outdoor art fair with a huge variety of local & incredibly talented artists showing their creations from pottery to photography to paintings to paper goods to glass blowing to jewelry and more. Being the lover of hearts that I am one of my favorite things to do is to pick out all the hearts in all the different mediums. Glass blown hearts, ceramic heart bowls, paintings of hearts, photos of hearts, sterling silver heart necklaces, greeting cards with hearts, heart-shaped wind chimes, the list goes on. There is a sign at the entrance that says "please ask before taking photos, artists may bite." So out of respect I tucked away my camera...except for this little beauty:

We had brought our bikes with us and after browsing the festival we rode our bikes into the downtown area and had lunch. Laguna Beach is one of my favorite little towns, so many wonderful art galleries, funky gift shops, incredible views and great restaurants. If you have never been and you are ever in southern California, I would recommend it!

The restaurant we ate at was one of those places where you were definitely paying for the location - looking out at the beach - but we were both starving and it did the trick. I had clam chowder, Brent fish and chips.

After lunch we rode around a little bit and stumbled on this really cute cupcake shop called Casey's Cupcakes. Everything is pink and glam and the cupcakes looked amazing but I was too full to indulge. I know, I know, how could I pass one up right? I would have brought one home with me if I didn't have to balance it on top of my head while biking back to the car. Guess I will have to go back for one. Sigh.

We headed back to the car, went to the grocery store and finally home. I had leftover cream from dinner a few nights ago and I knew I wouldn't cook anything else with it so I made some homemade whipped cream to top a hot mocha for me and a blended mocha for Brent. It hit the spot!

Some episodes of Weeds, relaxing, and the day was done. The end.

::Today's Food::

Cottage cheese w/ blueberries (from the farmer's market), crackers with ham & cheese & jam, sliced bell peppers, carrots & cucumbers, bowl of clam chowder, green salad w/ balsamic, m&m's and chocolate chips, mocha w/ whipped cream.

::Highlights::

Looking at all the art at the Sawdust Festival, riding bikes, day off from work...Tuesdays in general are always great days.

Hope you had a nice day!

♥♥♥

A Week in the Life :: Day 1

2011-07-27T22:03:00.000-07:00

You know how much I love doing the 10 on 10 project, so I am taking it a step further and participating in Ali Edward's "A Week in the Life." The idea of taking the everyday ordinary and finding beauty in it, really acknowledging & appreciating your every day routines, and living in the moment. It is so easy to just got lost in the day & never remember it simply because it is ordinary. That is what I love so much about the 10 on 10 project, and why I am thrilled to participate in this. I can look back a year from now and maybe my life will be completely and totally different or maybe it will be exactly the same! So this is going to be pretty much a play-by-play of my week, what I am doing, what I am thinking and of course photos along the way...if you are bored already, you can stop reading. ♥

Day 1: Monday, July 25, 2011

::Photo of me today::

I am trying to hard to make some changes in my life. My pain is better, but not gone. I have a job but it's not what I want to do forever. I am still getting very little sleep. I am trying to get more exercise, find balance, and manage my time better. I feel great about how far I have come but now that I am finally feeling a little better, I am working hard to reach certain goals.

But this morning I woke up feeling like I was moving through mud. A bad night of sleep (standard), back hurting, just exhausted and in a fog. Getting going was tough. After finishing a few things for work I made myself an iced latte, sat on the back patio and took a sip and a deep breath - mentally & physically. The nice thing about working from home is I can sit outside in my pajamas with my coffee and listen to whatever music I want. It's funny how sometimes I just want to be alone...to work with no distractions and no one to bother me, other times I want & need one-on-one interaction with someone, and other times I don't want to talk to anyone but just want the white noise of people moving around me - that is when I work at Starbucks.

Work wasn't bad, but it wasn't easy getting through with how tired and blah I was feeling. I needed a boost somehow.

So I first did a 30 minute workout in the living room then walked down to the beach (those are jumping jacks).

Nothing like a little sun, fresh air and the ocean to make me feel better.

The beach was so crowded but I didn't mind, I love to people watch and I felt really calm walking along, dipping my toes in the water and of course snapping photos.

I was laughing to myself because all the tourists on the beach probably thought I was an out-of-towner as well.

Do you ever like to pretend you are a tourist in your home town, taking photos of your surroundings as if you are seeing it all for the first time?

I returned feeling refreshed.

Enjoyed some comfort food of mac n' cheese & chicken nuggets for dinner with Brent, watched a few episodes of Weeds, and at the end of the day felt much better than when I started it. Success.

♥

Mattresses on the Freeway

2011-07-23T21:16:00.001-07:00

Today was quite the day. We finally decided to bite the bullet and buy a new mattress. I have never been a great sleeper, but add my back pain to the mix plus a 7 year old mattress & I average only a few hours of interrupted sleep at night. We have been looking around a bit and found one today that we liked for a great deal so we went for it.

But getting it home was not as easy as our decision to purchase the thing. Let me tell you a little story first. When Brent was moving to LA in 2005 to start his physical therapy program, he had a brand new mattress tied to the top of his car. Cruising up the 405 not thinking twice about it, the next thing he knew the mattress set flew off the top of the car & onto the road, the box spring breaking. Luckily they were able to get it off the freeway before any car hit it...but ever since, one corner of the mattress has black highway 405 asphalt stains and scrapes.

So today we were going to make sure this would not happen, we brought ropes...that's enough right? Wrong. Brent did a good job of tying it on but I think we just needed twice as many ropes because we lasted about 1/2 mile on the freeway before we freaked out and pulled off. So we took the coast highway as I had my eyes glued to the side mirror, both of us panicking when the wind was whipping it around on top, the plastic slipping & sliding.

An hour and a half later driving as slow as possible being that annoying slow car, we got home with no broken mattress & slightly higher blood pressure. I better sleep like a baby tonight!

Simple Pleasures Saturday #5

2011-07-23T21:08:00.000-07:00

Hello & happy Saturday to you! I had a lot of fun creating this image in honor of our little Saturday dates here. Today was a beautiful summer day. I feel bad the rest of the country is having these awful heat waves when it is so pleasant here...anyone suffering the heat should just move in with me temporarily! I have been so busy lately, between work (did I even mention I have a new job?), family events, photography projects, appointments, & working on my new website. But I promise I will be back in my full swing of regular posting soon enough. And it will be bigger & better than ever...so stay tuned!

The simple pleasures I am enjoying on this fine Saturday

♥ Having the barista at Starbucks ask me if he spelled "Chelsea" right.

♥ Smiles from strangers.

♥ Buying a new mattress.

♥ Taking the scenic route. Even if it takes twice as long, it is twice as beautiful.

♥ Swimming 5 extra laps than I normally have the strength for.

♥ Me + iced tea + editing photos + music + no distractions.

♥ Trying a new recipe & loving it.

What simple pleasures are you enjoying today? I love to hear what little things are making you happy! ♥

P.S. I had a lot of fun creating postcards with my photos from Moo.com & have some extras. If anyone would like to receive one in the mail, you can email me your address at clchamness@gmail.com

10 on 10 - July 2011

2011-07-10T22:01:00.000-07:00

Here is a little glimpse into my day, 10 on 10 style.

What does that mean? Glad you asked.

1 photo every hour, for 10 consecutive hours, on the 10th of the month.

Quite fun :)

An early morning swim...

...a visit with my favorite neighborhood cat, Tubby Longstockings...

...Delicious coffee for a delicious cappuccino...

...a walk around the neighborhood...

...an outing to the farmer's market...

...admiring the beauty of summer...

...trip down south to have dinner with my dad...

...he lives across the street from the beach...

...waiting for dinner to be ready...

..the end result, homemade pizzas made on the barbecue made

by the grill master himself - my dad...

...and an after-dinner walk admiring the beautiful ocean. Can't complain!

Hope you had a great weekend!

To see more 10 on 10 sets visit below

Fireworks & More

2011-07-05T21:35:00.000-07:00

I hope you all had a wonderful 4th of July or other celebration if you are not in the U.S.! Ours was nice, Brent's parents always have a party and you can see both the Dana Point & San Clemente shows perfectly. Amazing weather, gorgeous views, yummy food, no crowds... doesn't get much better!! Did you do anything fun or exciting this weekend?

♥

Scavenger Hunt Sunday

2011-07-05T16:38:00.000-07:00

Okay...so it isn't exactly Sunday, I may be late. But here are my finds for this week's photo scavenger hunt! Thanks to Ashley for hosting, always fun to participate!

:: Pop of Color ::

:: Crossing Thresholds ::

:: X-Ray ::

:: Toy ::

:: Hidden ::

Simple Pleasures Saturday #4

2011-07-02T15:33:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my Stepdad's birthday so we celebrated with his favorite dinner, roast beef & yorkshire pudding (he jokes and says the reason he married my mom was for her ability to make yorkshire pudding like his grandma), and I made a ridiculous chocolate cake with fudge buttercream, shredded coconut & chocolate ganache. One word - YUM. Today we had a wonderful brunch and lounged in and out of the pool with absolutely perfect weather!!

Today my simple pleasures would be:

♥ The coconut smell of Hawaiin Tropic sunscreen

♥ A really good belly laugh

♥ Dipping my feet into a pool that is the perfect temperature

♥ Winning a game of couples Bocce Ball

♥ Two home-cooked meals from mom

I hope your weekend is off to a great start! What simple pleasures are you enjoying today?

*Sidenote - that is my brother's puppy and he LOVES to swim

and also float around on the raft! It is absolutely hilarious!!

Color is All Around

2011-07-01T11:51:00.000-07:00

Color is everywhere. Sometime it is bold, sometimes subtle. We express ourselves using color. Colors represent moods and evoke memories. Sometimes color is unexpected. Sometimes we know exactly what color to expect. There is brilliant color in nature. Color waxes & wanes with the turn of the seasons. Color can soothe, or color can invigorate. Color is...pretty amazing and in my opinion the world would be boring in black and white.

♥ Happy Friday! ♥

Scavenger Hunt Sunday

2011-06-25T22:31:00.000-07:00

Hope you are all having a wonderful weekend! Here are my finds for this week's Scavenger Hunt...thanks to Ashley for hosting!

:: Windows/Doors ::

:: Eyelashes ::

:: Paint ::

:: Leaf Veins ::

:: Faceless Portrait ::

Simple Pleasures Saturday #3

2011-06-25T16:06:00.000-07:00

Today is a beautiful day but pretty typical June weather. I was down in San Diego where it was boiling hot & blue skies, then drive back up north to spotty clouds with some sun. But it is the perfect temperature & I don't mind some gloom. Saturdays are so nice...not having to work, and with my back feeling a little better I have been able to enjoy some more activity than usual! I went with my mom & stepdad to the 30th annual Scottish Highland Games...I didn't expect it to be so cool, I loved it!

My simple pleasures for today are:

♥ Freezing cold air-conditioning in the car when it is blistering hot

♥ Free food samples

♥ Eating a spoonful of peanut butter straight from the jar

♥ Getting the last parking spot

♥ Singing as loud as I want when I'm alone in the car

What simple pleasures are you enjoying on this fine Saturday? I love to hear all of yours...makes me so happy!

Thank you to everyone who commented last week!! Unfortunately there can only be one winner of the awesome mug, & the winner is (drumroll please).... Susan Branch! It was so fun doing a giveaway, can't wait to do another!

Daddy-O

2011-06-24T18:18:00.000-07:00

This is a little late, but...

June is a fun month because I get to celebrate my dad twice. June 15th is his birthday & father's day is right around the corner. There have been a handful of times the two actually fall on the same day and I have a very specific memory of one these two-in-one years, I was pretty young & our family spent the day at our favorite beach. Someone left & got my dad's favorite gigantic ooey-gooey cinnamon rolls from Cinnabon & we sat on the beach devouring them! That's my kind of celebration...decadent food and the beach? Can't go wrong.

For my dad's birthday this year, we cooked him dinner - homemade manicotti, prosciutto-wrapped asparagus, salad w/ balsamic reduction & drum roll please....my mounds candy bar-inspired cake! So yummy- chocolate cake with fudge buttercream, shredded coconut & chocolate ganache. We had a great time.

For father's day he was in his element - barbecuing up a feast. He can make magic with a Webber grill, some charcoal & his homemade BBQ sauce. It was a beautiful day, we sat on his rooftop deck with a view of the ocean & ate to our hearts content!!

My dad has a heart of gold and I am lucky to have him, and to be so close to him!! I have so many wonderful memories with home over the years. Growing up, my dad would tell me a "little boy story" every night before I went to bed. He was the best story-teller and he had such good stories of him when we was my age & growing up...and I will never ever forget them ♥

Did you do anything fun for father's day? Any special memories with your dad?

Snapping Out Of It

2011-06-23T23:35:00.000-07:00

Do you ever have those off days? Today I just woke up in a

funk & could not snap out of it all day.

Felt uninspired, bummed, the day itself was stressful & come 4:00 I was frustrated.

With the hope that getting out of the house would help, I ran an errand, then went for a short drive while listening to my ipod - always a mood booster for me.

And of course I had my camera with me, so when I saw these fascinating plants I had to pull over for a mini photo session.

By the time I was home I felt a little better.

Do you have your go-tos when you have an off day?

Scavenger Hunt Sunday

2011-06-20T23:13:00.000-07:00

Emotion

From a Flower's Point of View

Natural Frame

Letters

Bliss

Thanks to Ashley for hosting, & for using some of my prompt ideas!

Simple Pleasures Saturday #2 (And a Giveaway!!)

2011-06-18T11:31:00.000-07:00

Round 2 of Simple Pleasures Saturday! What simple pleasures did you enjoy this week, or right now for that matter? For me....

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Having someone else fill my gas tank.

Receiving a wonderful unexpected compliment.

Feeling the sand below my feet at the beach.

A surprise bouquet of tulips.

Eating cake straight from the pan - no plate.

Buying greeting cards.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Speaking of simple pleasures, who doesn't love getting mail? And free stuff? I bought this mug yesterday with all you in mind and I want to give it away to one lucky reader!

:: "Enjoy the simplest pleasures in the everyday." ::

Nice little reminder isn't it? Simply leave a comment telling me the simple things that are currently bringing you joy, or leave a link to a blog post! Giveaway will be open for 1 week until next week's Simple Pleasure Saturdays when I will announce the winner. Have a wonderful Saturday!! ♥

A Taste of Summer

2011-06-17T21:45:00.000-07:00

I tend to notice that my photos reflect my mood during the time of the shot. When looking at my most recent photos taken on my phone, they all had such a warm, summery, happy feel to them! I love seeing the slight changes that come with each season, and although slight in Southern California, finding them brings me such joy. I am getting excited for summer! Beach days, warm weather, bike rides, bonfires, s'mores, farmer's market trips, peach pies....

Simple Pleasures Saturday

2011-06-11T18:02:00.000-07:00

I am all about the little things. Life is so unpredictable with so many ups & downs that I try my best to really appreciate the simple everyday joys. I find myself getting overly excited over seemingly mundane things, but they are sometimes exactly what I need to get me through.

I want to start acknowledging these simple pleasures. Recognize that big happy feeling I get over the little stuff. So please welcome (drum roll please) Simple Pleasures Saturday...where I simply list a few things from my day that make me smile! Anyone can join me!

Today I am very much enjoying:

A much-needed Lazy Saturday.

A bag of animal crackers.

Burger & fries for lunch.

Jeans, hoodie, & no makeup.

Tell me...what simple pleasures are you enjoying today?

The Color of Texture

2011-06-09T22:01:00.000-07:00

Focusing on textures transforms the world around you, turning the ordinary into the extraordinary. Take notice of how visually stunning some textures can be!

Farmer's Market Eye Candy

2011-06-08T19:27:00.000-07:00

I love going to Farmer's Markets year round, but especially summer. All those wonderful stone fruits & berries just calling to be baked into pies, tarts, crumbles, topping ice cream, breads...endless possibilities. Not to mention all the beautiful colors, interesting shapes, handcrafted goods & fresh flowers. Such a wonderful source of inspiration!!

♥♥♥♥

Escaping Cancer - Trip to the West

2011-06-06T22:35:00.000-07:00

Sunday I attended & photographed a very special event. The Western Roundup hosted by PCRF (Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation) is a western-themed carnival & picnic intended to provide a fun day for oncology kids & their families. Activities included carnival games & rides, face painting, a petting zoo, pony rides, live entertainment, a raffle, a bouncy house, lunch & lots more.

If you are new to my blog, I am a pediatric cancer survivor myself. For so long I didn't identify with being "a survivor," it was something I wanted to get so far away from & forget that I didn't consider it a part of me. I was happy to be alive, but because I didn't have a choice of enduring cancer, in my mind it wasn't so spectacular that I overcame it. Well that feeling changed. I am not sure what exactly triggered that transformation in my mind but at some point something clicked. Now being a cancer survivor is just a part of my identity, no less than having green eyes or loving photography. I am also proud of how far I have come & I believe I am meant to use my experience to help others.

Seeing all these kids having fun & taking their mind off being sick was so special to me personally. It has been 11 years since my diagnosis but I can remember like it was yesterday the way I felt. The constant hospital stays, procedures, blood draws & transfusions & feeling sick constantly. It is not fair that these kids have had their childhood stolen from them, so it touched my heart to see them play, laugh, smile & just be the kids they rarely get to be.

I hope that all these kids will survive & experience all life has to offer. I hope they too can someday be proud to call themselves a survivor. I hope that I can make a difference by sharing my story & giving current pediatric cancer patients hope.

I haven't finished looking at all the photos from the day but here are a few of my favorites so far.

There was a dove ceremony at the end to honor those who didn't survive or those who were too sick to be there. For more info about PCRF or if you have any ideas for ways I can help by sharing my story, please feel free to contact me! & hearts; ♥

June Blooms

2011-06-05T19:06:00.001-07:00

Saturday I was able to spend the day at my mom's house...just the two of us.

With all that has been going on with my grandparents, I haven't been able to see or talk to my mom as much as normal (which is a lot). I was really missing her, so this was just what I needed.

Going to their house is like going on vacation. An ultra relaxing pool, tropical plants & flowers, completely quiet.

I enjoyed walking around & observing all the different colors of the flowers at all the different stages of growth. Some still buds, some peeking out from hiding, some in full bloom showing off.

We talked, we ate, we played with the animals, & even created our own cocktail!

We named it "Currantly Happy" & the recipe is below.

"Currantly Happy" Cocktail

1 shot currant-flavored vodka

1/2 shot Chambord

1 shot cranberry juice

Juice of 1/2 lime

4 drops orange-flavored Bitters

Shake, pour into chilled glass and

top off with club soda to fill. Enjoy!

I hope you had a nice weekend!♥

I ♥ Color - Yellow

2011-06-01T08:33:00.000-07:00

Yellow ... such a happy color. Sunny, summery, bright...

Hope this brightened your day a bit ♥

Memorial Day Weekend

2011-05-30T21:44:00.000-07:00

Sometimes a three-day weekend is just what you need to recharge. You have probably noticed I have been absent for a little while, life has been a bit hectic on my end lately...in both good & not so good respects. Let's start with the good news. Two of my photos made the finals in the Third Annual Spring Photo Festival, & I started a part-time job with an advertising company, which I am enjoying very much. The not so good, Grandma Pearl passed away. Monday my Grandpa had surgery to insert a stent in his Carotid Artery, Tuesday Pearl passed away. Then Thursday my Grandpa had a hemorrhagic stroke. As of today, he is recovering well & the prognosis is good but it was really scary for a few days. My mom has been with him since Thursday, & they are both on my mind constantly. Please keep my Grandpa Bill in your thoughts & prayers!

Needless to say, this weekend was welcomed with open arms. It started with the Glee Live Tour in Anaheim, CA. Just Aunt Lori & me, the show was so well done & we had a blast.

The rest of the weekend was filled with bike rides, beach trips, sunsets,

& of course yummy food!

How was your weekend? Do anything fun?

Summer is just around the corner!!! Stay tuned ♥ ♥

Just Dance!

2011-05-19T17:58:00.000-07:00

I have always LOVED watching dance. I can get so emotional seeing the combination of talent, the beauty of the movement, the way music and dance combine to tell a story.

But I didn't know what to think when yesterday's Creativity Boot Camp prompt was to dance. My first thought was "dance? Me? ...In an art class?" My second thought was "where can I do this unseen?" But I love the way Maegan Beishline put it...that this is about conditioning my creativity through different mediums, similar to the way a football player would take ballet to improve balance and coordination. So I danced. I went for it and it was fun! (And I have the photo to prove it)

I gave a lot of thought to the similarities between dance and photography. Both a form of art, just using a different tool to create with and express. With dance, the music moves you - physically and emotionally. You can't help but move to the beat, and fully letting go, your body takes charge with your mind following. For me, it is the same with photography, but instead of music, beauty is what moves me. I see something beautiful or intriguing and respond by reaching for my camera. Like dance, I try to just feel it. Let my heart take in the music and have my camera do the dancing.

"Do one thing every day that frightens you." -Eleanor Roosevelt

"We can't become what we need to be by remaining who we are." -Oprah Winfrey

To me, these quotes go hand in hand and I love the idea of pushing myself creatively. When I think about the accomplishments and aspects of my life I am most proud of, they all involve some initial level of discomfort, challenge or fear. Applying for college, a first date, my first paid photography job, public speaking, etc. So I am embracing these challenges, ~~even~~ especially the ones outside my comfort zone to grow, learn, and become what I need to be. Even if it means making a fool of myself dancing alone for all the neighbors to see.

::Embracing Creativity::

2011-05-18T22:51:00.000-07:00

My mom is an artist. A really incredible and gifted artist. She paints and draws, and creating always came naturally to her. She majored in fine art, designed and created jewelry, taught art classes at our school and in our home and continues to create. She encouraged art at home but I never felt I was good at it.

Chris Orwig in his book Visual Poetry talks about when asking a class of kids if they can draw, every single kid raise their hands. But when asking a group of college students the same question, only a few raise their hands. At some point our unlimited imaginations become limited and we no longer hear the question as can you draw, but can you draw well...and this is exactly how I felt. Pablo Picasso said "All children are artists. The problem is to remain one when you grow up."

Until just a few years ago I was convinced I wasn't fortunate enough to inherit my mom's creative genes. Then I found photography. I always loved it...the idea of capturing a moment forever through a photo. The way beauty could forever exist in photo. Slowly I realized photography was my thing, I nurtured it, practiced daily, and I have created work I am proud to call my own. Then it hit me- just because I am not a great painter or a great drawer doesn't mean I am not artistic or creative. My mom did bless me with her creative gift, we just use it in different ways.

I am participating in a two-week intensive "Creativity Boot Camp." An online course aimed to exercise all aspects of our creative selves, letting go and getting lost in creative work. It was a last minute decision to participate, unsure of the time commitment but I am so glad I went for it. We are at day 4 and it has already been an eye-opening experience. For me, creating art is incredibly liberating and therapeutic and just like my photography, I want to nurture my whole creative self by experimenting with new and different mediums.

There's been doodling...

...journaling...

...getting messy with paint...

...and playing with color.

What's next?

Happy Transplant-iversary!

2011-05-16T20:58:00.000-07:00

11 years ago today I was in a hospital bed receiving the long-awaited cord blood transplant that would hopefully, if successful, help rid my body of Leukemia. I do remember that day a bit, mainly because there was such a big fuss over it, but mostly it is just a blur.

Every year on May 16th I like to do a little something to celebrate and acknowledge my transplant anniversary. This year is number 11 which isn't a major milestone number but it sounds lucky doesn't it? And what is luckier than beating cancer, and living another year to enjoy all my life has to offer. At year five, my mom bought me a heart-shaped necklace to commemorate the occasion. Year nine was dinner at Purple Feet. Year ten, my wonderful family threw me a big celebratory party. This year, I just wanted some of my favorite pizza with Brent.

The reason this day is of such importance is it was the day I was given a new life. That transplant was the first step of many which saved my life and the reason I am still alive. I have so much to be thankful for, and I am so happy for the ability to celebrate this anniversary!

::Enjoy The Journey::

2011-05-14T23:40:00.000-07:00

I love thinking of life in terms of a long road trip - a journey. There are delays, detours, mishaps & ugly scenery. But there is also fresh air, new experiences, beautiful sights, and so many times I have found that the detours have taken me exactly where I need to be.

On this journey, it is so easy to let days slip away often unremarkably and without notice. But I have found that when I actually take the time to enjoy the scenery instead of worrying so much about the destination, it makes such an impact on my state of being. Slowing down, enjoying each day for what is & focusing on what I am grateful for in my life at that moment.

Photography has done just that for me...completely opened my eyes to the world, allowing me to notice things I previously overlooked. It started with searching for beautiful and interesting subject matter, and transformed my ability to slow down and take it all in.

♥Enjoy the journey♥

*Photo taken at Grow Gift Studio & Gallery

Three Beauties

2011-05-11T14:36:00.000-07:00

Sisters Mallory-5, Delayna-10, and Taryn-12 were a joy to photograph. Shot at Myrtle Creek in Fallbrook, CA, we had so much fun exploring and playing, and what beautiful girls! The photos are a surprise gift to their dad for Father's Day. Here are just a few of my favorites from the shoot.

::Miss Mallory::

::Miss Delayna::

::Miss Taryn::

::All Together::

Please contact me for your photography needs!

Events, engagements, portraits,families and more.

Orange County & San Diego areas.

Ten on Ten :: May

2011-05-10T17:45:00.000-07:00

Ten photos on the tenth of the month, one photo each hour for ten consecutive hours. Here is a glimpse into my day on this tenth of May! The day was thrown off a bit by Brent's dead car battery, but everything worked out fine. I drove him to work, went grocery shopping, swam at the pool, and visited the neighbor cat. Tuesdays are nice because they are Brent's half days so we get to spend the afternoon together. Today we sat outside with coffee and read for awhile. Hope your day was a good one!

As I look over the day's photos I can feel summer inching closer and closer!

To see more Ten on Ten collections visit HERE.