When Chinese Eyes Are Smilin'

Going with the Flow...

2011-10-13T20:22:00.003-04:00

I grew up in New England… where each season’s weather was fairly predictable: hot and sticky in the summer, cool and breezy in the fall, freezing cold in the winter and miserably rainy in the spring. The rain in particular, which began in March and pretty much hung around until May, was predictable. The sky would gradually start to darken one day, and then the rains would begin and last for days. I was used to the weather staying pretty consistent. So you can imagine my surprise when, after moving to Florida for college, I was introduced to the daily 30-minute summer afternoon rain shower. It was amazing to me. Sun one minute, rain the next. Though it took a while for my northern brain to get used to the southern weather, I have come to expect that weather changes here often .. and quickly.

Check out the rest of this post... {and the pictures} over at the photo blog by clicking here.

Progress Report

2011-09-29T12:07:00.000-04:00

So, it turns out that this whole Blogging thing is a LOT harder to do with a school-age child than it was when she was a baby/toddler who occasionally slept. LOL!

I just wrote a post (with photos) over at the other blog about Isabel's first progress report. I wish I had the energy right now to be more creative and write a different version of it for this blog.

But I don't. Though I DO wish I could bottle some of my daughter's energy for myself! LOL!

You can check out the update by clicking here:

or here: http://www.laureenburkephotography.com/2011/09/progress-report-last-friday-at-end-of.html

Thanks for understanding
(and hope to see you over on the other blog!)

All is Well...

2011-09-23T15:55:00.000-04:00

A month in and all is well

Today marks the one month point of my Kindergartener’s formal education in the public school system. While part of me still cannot believe that we are coming up on five years as mother and daughter, the rest of me stands in awe of the amazing child that Isabel has developed into. She is bright, witty, intuitive and quite the social butterfly.
Walking through the doors of that school was her first step into a whole new world…a world of discovery, laughter, failure, friends, joy, pain. The whole gamut.

The space where her first two teeth fell out last month is gone, filled by the two new adult teeth.

As quick as that. The baby replaced by the adult. I know that I have 13 years ahead of me before the child as a whole becomes the woman she will be.

Thirteen years.

I know that it will fly by in a heartbeat. And I will be writing about how my *baby* is finishing her first month of college.

Until then, I will try my hardest to be present. To enjoy moments like this morning’s, when, as she waited for her Vanilla Bean mini Scone, she excitedly announced to the folks in line that “My Mom got paid today!” To embrace the time of reading bedtime stories together and listening to Veggie Tales in the car. To experience bittersweet times of growth, like her decision to walk to her classroom by herself today.

The next decade will be filled with change and growth…for us both. And while there is a tad bit of apprehension, if these last five years have been any indication, the adventure has just begun.

Love is in the Air

2011-09-19T11:30:00.000-04:00

“As the ocean is never full of water,

so is the heart never full of love”

With the exception of when I studied abroad, I have always lived my life within 30 minutes of the Atlantic Ocean. There is something about the sound of gulls and the smell of the salt on the air that comforts me, embraces me, calms me. The sheer enormity of the ocean helps me put things into perspective. There is a peace that envelopes me; the waves rolling in and out, in and out… they remind me of the cycles of life.

I was there last month, an hour before sunset to shoot an engagement session for a colleague of mine. I seriously couldn't have asked for a more perfect evening. The beach was deserted. The weather was not too hot. There were gorgeous clouds in the sky and the sunset was spectacular. It was a photographer's dream come true.

And that was just the setting.

As D.H. Lawrence put it,

"I am in love - and, my God, it is the greatest thing that can happen to a man."

Indeed, it would seem to be.

You can check out images of this session

over at the other blog by clicking here.

{Thanks for visiting}

Seeing What Isn't There

2011-09-13T16:55:00.002-04:00

Please check out my new post over at the other blog.
http://www.laureenburkephotography.com/2011/09/seeing-what-isnt-there.html
Hope you enjoy!

Isabel and Irene

2011-08-29T00:16:00.000-04:00

We were lucky.
Hurricane Irene stayed off the coast 200 miles from us. We were spared the destructive effects of her and were left with some magnificent waves.

I brought Isabel with me this past week
while I was scouting a location for
an engagement photography session
at the beach.

It was about an hour before sunset
and the light was glorious.

As I looked up, I was amazed (yet again)
at the beautiful little girl Isabel has become.

She lost two teeth the week before last
and just finished her first week of kindergarten.

My baby is gone forever.

And while, there is a deep sadness over that,

its impact is softened by the joy of seeing

this amazing child.

My child.

My love.

Leaving Comfort Behind

2011-08-18T12:40:00.001-04:00

So, you might ask... where have I been lately? Well, I have been working hard this summer building my photography business and am excited about how it is growing. This past week I had three sessions: two high school seniors and one fellow photographer from Miami. The photo shoots with the two girls were totally in my comfort zone. I love teenagers. As a teacher I am surrounded by them 8 hours a day. I get them. I enjoy them. I am recharged and inspired by them. And while having two sessions on the same day, 12 hours apart is not the ideal scheduling... it was fun and relaxing photographing the two teens.

Well, that is as relaxing as 98 degree Florida heat can be... : -0

Two days later, I had another session. This time with a fellow Floridian photographer. She was in town visiting with some friends and we had communicated earlier in the month about me taking her pictures. I knew that her session would be different and that I would be stretched. So I agreed.
And it WAS different. I am used to the insecuities that come with being an adolescent. With Kenia, it was very different. I loved that she was someone who was comfortable with her body...and knew how to position herself. I also loved that she was comfortable with a camera... albeit, her comfort usually lies on the other side of the lens.

What was out of my comfort zone was the edgy feel of the whole shoot. I am used to a more soft look, both in dress and in environment. But, I realize it is important to grow. And so I took the plunge and went for it.

And I liked it.
I liked the strength that is portrayed through her.
And I liked that I, myself, grew stronger as a photographer because of her.

For more (and to see the photos), click here.

Simple Thanks

2011-08-03T01:45:00.000-04:00

It's inevitable. I mean… they DO grow up. I recognize that. It's just that it hits out of nowhere. Like when my daughter came dancing into my bedroom wearing a dress she liked from last summer. Only, THIS summer it looks like a long shirt.

She starts kindergarten in less than three weeks. It seems like just yesterday we were in China with her being placed in my arms. And then there's is that wonderful rite of passage that she went through yesterday… the loss of the first tooth. Is there ANYTHING cuter than those goofy gap-toothed smiles?

And so I sit here. Having just finished slipping some quarters under her pillow and writing a letter from the Tooth Fairy for her to find in the morning. I sit here in amazement at the incredible life I live. And for that I am thankful.

Detente

2011-07-26T15:31:00.001-04:00

It's been two months since the arrival of Lilly, the abandoned kitten that my student brought to me the last week of school. She has definitely rocked our little world. (How in the world could I have forgotten how much energy a kitten has?) She spends most of her days sleeping, so she is all fired up and ready to play All. NIGHT. LONG.

*sigh*

Poor Lulu, our older cat, has been tortured to no end by the little ball of fur who hides behind doors, chairs, clothes, (you name it) and then jumps out and attack you... playfully, of course. Yeah, right!

We have made it two months and I am hoping she mellows out a bit.

I have hope.

After all, this is what I saw when I walked into the kitchen yesterday.

BW Wednesday: Simple Beauty

2011-07-13T11:17:00.000-04:00

Last month, you got a glimpse of this amazing woman.
She is stunning and so photogenic. It boggles the mind that she has never modeled.

I loved how the light played upon her in so many different ways. Looking through the lens was like watching a chameleon. One moment looking as if she was from the 19th century and the next like a fierce European Vogue model.

What a gift to be able to photograph her.

The Official Launch!

2011-07-10T20:20:00.001-04:00

After a month or so of tweaking, the new website is launched. You can check it out here:

http://www.laureenburkephotography.com/2011/07/warm-welcome.html

You can also follow along on FB (link on the site) or on Twitter @LBPhotos
I am so excited!

(Thanks for visiting! )

Summer, Smoke, Soil and a Silly Kitten

2011-06-21T11:30:00.003-04:00

It has been smokey here lately. I mean SMOKEY!!! Like... you can barely make it from the front door of the house to the car kind of smokey. Clothes smell like you just finished singing camp songs and eating s'mores. In the 31 years I have lived here, I don't ever remember it being like this. The fires continue to blaze. Every few days we get a reprieve when it rains. But it's a mixed blessing because with the rain comes lightening... and then more fires.

During one of the days this past week when the air was clear, Isabel and I finally planted our vegetable garden. We have a nice fine tomato plant with two pepper plants on each side. Next to them are cantaloupe, cucumbers and squash. Protecting all of them from insects are a couple of marigolds.

It is a small garden. But it is ours. And we love it...especially because it is our first.

The back yard is really filling out: the crepe myrtles are blooming nicely. [You can see a couple of photos above and below.] The ligustrum is now over ten feet tall and the plumbago, butterfly weed, and four o'clocks add a punch of color and fragrance. The last of the jasmine blooms are tenaciously hanging on to the branches. We have roses, lilies, daisies and sunflowers blossoming. I just bought a scarlet mandevilla and a glorious peach-lavender-rose colored bouganvilla to plant in huge containers and train up the posts of the pergola.

We love our yard. Or, as one sweet friend referred to it, our secret garden. We love entertaining back there. IN one corner, there is a nice swing and dining area under the shady pergola. In another corner there is a relaxing hammock under the shade of our huge pecan tree. It's easy to slip away into a peaceful nap out there. The branches of the tree canopy are filled with birds and squirrels. It's our wonderful escape. One we like to share with company.

And so it was fun this past week when we were able to entertain guests a couple of times. Two sweet friends drove up from south Florida to attend Isabel's pre-K graduation. Isabel adores them both... as do I! We had a wonderful time enjoying each other's company. They are like family and the mom has been part of Isabel's life even before she came home from China. How blessed I am to have such great friends.

Yesterday, I got a treat when the mom of the two happened to be driving with friends back to south Florida from Georgia. I was able to convince them to drop by for a visit and we had a blast. Great women! I look forward to seeing them again on our next jaunt down south.

And so, with them gone and Isabel at camp, I am here with Lulu and Lilly. You might ask: Who is Lilly?

Well...during the last week of school, one of my students showed up at my classroom with a tiny kitten. I'm talking 5-6 weeks old. Her eyes were still blue. She looked just like our Lulu did when she was a kitten. I was smitten with the kitten. (Did I mention that I am a sucker for cats?) It has seemed really strange to have only one cat for this past year since Buddy died. (For the previous 17 years, I had always had two cats.) So, getting another cat was in the back of my mind. I ended up bringing her home and Isabel promptly named her Lilly. (Though for the last couple of days, she has decided she would like to change her name to Love. Huh???)

[WARNING: Some major wild eyebrow and whisker action ahead! View at own risk.]

It has been really interesting watching Isabel with Lilly. The last time we had a kitten was when we got Lulu (and Isabel was not yet two years old.) Back then she just chased the kitten around the house and enticed it with ribbons. This time, she wraps it in her little baby blanket and talks to it. Amazingly, Lilly doesn't mind. In fact, I usually find her snuggled in Isabel's lap. Which is nice. Since Lulu (the former traumatized kitten) is not that affectionate of a cat. (Perhaps some counseling could help?) She spends most of her days and nights avoiding Lilly. She still hisses at her. But not as much. They actually can be on the same bed together now. As long as Lilly doesn't get too close.

I understand. Change is never easy.

For now, I fill my days relaxing, planning for the next school year, doing projects around the house...(quick question: should I hire someone to pressure wash or just rent the dang machine at 1/3 of the price and do it myself???) and continuing to work daily on my photography. It's nice to just be.

And you. What are you doing for the summer?

Exciting Things Happening!

2011-06-14T23:57:00.000-04:00

I know, I know.
Where have I been?
Well, the mystery has been solved. I have been making one of my dreams come true: starting a photography business. After a year and a half of slowly building a portfolio and client base, I am excited to announce that my photography business is in full swing. I had two amazing women design my new logo and my new blog. You can check them out here.

BW Wednesday: Easter

2011-04-27T00:25:00.000-04:00

Easter Lilies

Trumpet shaped bloom

Good News sounds forth from tomb

Lilies shout Glory

- by Mary Havran ..

BW Wednesday: JM

2011-04-13T00:04:00.002-04:00

Late one evening, 25 years ago, my good friend went into labor. While she and her husband rushed to the hospital, I stayed behind with their 2.5 year old. The baby that was born is now a funny, gracious, talented and incredibly handsome man. Jon Michael is like a nephew to me, and after living years in NC , he's back in Florida. I am lucky to have him living in the same city.

We had fun at the Town Center doing a photo shoot.

Spring Break: Camping at the Beach

2011-03-23T06:05:00.008-04:00

I haven't been camping since I was in college. Like then, we went during spring break and pitched our tent near the ocean. Unlike then, I had a child with me.

...and that made all the difference!

She went bike-riding, paddle boating, toasted marshmallows, saw an alligator and a bunch of pelicans, swam, built castles and listened to owls.

Turns out that we had the best three days of the break. It has rained every day since.

Three more days of vacation and then...back to work. : )

Coming up for Air...

2011-03-16T20:55:00.013-04:00

It's been a month since I last posted. How in the world can that be? We are in the midst of third quarter exams at school before spring break. Then the crazy (seemingly non-stop) testing begins: FCAT, Benchmarks, EOC, MAP,AP and IB exams. And then, of course, there are the final exams. The spring is a whirlwind for me during the week. As such, I look forward to doing something fun on the weekends.

Over the Presidents Day holiday, we headed to south Florida to visit friends and family. I am thankful to have my mom's brother and sister live within driving distance. They are the closest family we have down here. We spent the weekend being spoiled by my aunt's gourmet cooking, catching a jazz concert, checking out a manatee museum, swimming and watching Isabel swing her first gold club. It was a short but filled three days. On the way home, I decided to just head east off the interstate until I hit the Atlantic Ocean. We were in no rush. We ended up at a great little beach and hung out for an hour or so before heading back home.

A couple of weekends ago, we were planning to head over to Palatka for the annual Azalea Festival which, for some reason, I always seem to forget each year until after it is over. I was so proud of myself for putting it on the calendar. Unfortunately, both Isabel and I came down with bronchitis and the trip was canceled. Last weekend, however, while we were in Saint Augustine, we called a friend and found out they were actually on their way to the very place where the festival had taken place. We ended up joining them and had a blast! Who knew you could actually HIKE in Florida? (I'll tell you who! My THIGHS the next morning!)

I think we are going to spend this weekend working in the yard. The ligustrum and crepe myrtles are starting to bud. The dogwood is is full bloom... just glorious. Isabel wants to have a vegetable garden this summer. I think it's a wonderful idea. We just need to figure out the details.

Here are some pictures from our adventures and, as always, you can click to enlarge them.

Playing Jenga with Great Uncle Tom

Outside The Manatee Museum

Inside the Manatee Museum

They look a little like French Fries, huh?

Great Aunt Moe showing her how to hold the club

Swinging Away...

A Little Side Track to the Beach

Total joy

At The Entrance to The Ravines

Clearly, the azaleas were still in bloom

One of the two suspension bridges

Hiking up from the ravine

Time for a pose, folks!

A rare photo of the two of us

And another : )

B+W Wednesday: Princess Party

2011-02-16T18:34:00.004-05:00

Last week, Isabel celebrated her friend's 5th birthday.

It was a full princess gala.

The girls had a blast.

Happy Birthday Maeve!

B+W Wednesday: The Many Faces of Isabel

2011-02-08T21:43:00.004-05:00

A little quiet in the morning

Fun in the afternoon

Sleepy at night

B+W Wednesday: Lazy Sunday Afternoon

2011-01-25T18:53:00.004-05:00

Recipe for a great photo

Take one sleepy girl
Add one Panda Pillow Pet
Place on soft bed near sun-filled window
Wait for 30 minutes.
Shoot.

Pop on over to Lisa's blog for other B+W photos.

Four Years Ago Today...

2011-01-21T14:24:00.000-05:00

...the dream of 46 years became a reality. In a hotel conference room in Nanchang, China, a 13-month-old baby named Ling Wan Qing was placed in my arms and I became a mother at last.

Happy 4th Anniversary, my sweet Isabel.

B+W Wednesday: Some Down Time

2011-01-18T20:34:00.006-05:00

My little one has been under the weather.

We've been home for the last four days relaxing, resting,

building towers and cities with blocks, coloring

and just enjoying time together.

No concerts. No church. No library. No playdates.

Just the two of us.

And that is more than enough.

{Head on over to Lisa's blog for other B+W photos.}

A Kid's Perspective of Mom

2011-01-16T11:45:00.008-05:00

Received this from a friend this morning. Reminds me of this.

It was fun and interesting to catch a glimpse inside her thinking.

{Numbers 15, 16, and 18 really touched my heart.}

1. What is something Mom always says to you?
I love you.

2. What makes Mom happy?
Kisses

3. What makes Mom sad?
Hitting

4. How does your Mom make you laugh?
Funny jokes

5. What was your Mom like as a child?
Fun

6. How old is your Mom?
14 (LOVE this child!!!)

7. How tall is your Mom?
40 feet long (And I thought 5'10" was bad)

8. What is Mom's favorite thing to do?
Cook

9. What does your Mom do when you're not around?
Work

10. If your Mom becomes famous, what will it be for?
Surprises

11. What is your Mom really good at?
Cooking

12. What is your Mom not very good at?
Burning

13. What does your Mom do for her job?
Get money

14. What is your mom's favorite food?
Chocolate

15. What makes you proud of your Mom?
Loving

16. If your Mom were a cartoon character, who would she be?
My mommy

17. What do you and your Mom do together?
Work

18. How are you and your Mom the same?
Cause we are family

19. How are you and your Mom different?
Because you are a grown up and I am a child

20. How do you know your Mom loves you?
Because you're my mommy

21. Where is your Mom's favorite place to go?
Narnia movie

B+W Wednesday: Amiga Mia

2011-01-11T23:05:00.008-05:00

Five days a week, from 7:30 in the morning until mid afternoon, I teach high school Spanish. While I just love my students, it makes all the difference in the world having a good friend down the hall.

Norma and I have been friends and colleagues for almost 15 years. Our children are like brother and sister and adore each other. We laugh together, send emails throughout the day, and find comfort in being able to vent to each other.

Though we are a decade apart in age, she is like a sassy, stylish Boriquen little sister to me. I am so thankful for her friendship, for her laughter

(and for her black beans. Yum!)

Check out other B+W photos over at Lisa's blog:

I Heart Faces Photo Contest: SMILE

2011-01-10T21:57:00.006-05:00

The site iheartfaces is a photography site which hosts weekly contests.

The theme this week is SMILE. This is my first time entering.

I just LOVE this picture!

It was the night before Isabel's 5th birthday party and I was baking the cake. As per our ritual, she gets to lick the bowl. I looked around and saw this... hair in the eyes, batter all over the handle, tongue sticking out, chocolate all over her face...and PURE happiness in her eyes.

SMILE

Hers creates mine.

Where did the time go?

2010-12-22T00:00:00.001-05:00

I can't believe it's been almost three weeks since my last post. Such is the schedule of December. In addition to both our of birthdays, one day apart, there was The Polar Express at the Symphony and the Nutcracker Ballet. Throw in the final days of school before Christmas break and, oh yeah, shopping, and three weeks flew by fast.

I got two photography books as birthday gifts that I have been wanting for over six months. I can't wait to dive into them and play. I have yet to get through all the latest photos, however, here are a few from the last couple of weeks. The final one... for B+W Wednesday... is, I think my favorite shot ever of Isabel. I love everything about it.

A Very Merry Christmast to All.

Birthday Girl Enjoying the Cake Batter

Hello Kitty Cupcakes

Birthday Art Project

Big "Brother" Lucas

A Visit to the Symphony's Instrument Zoo

The Nutcracker with Friends

Interview with the Birthday Girl

2010-12-02T19:47:00.004-05:00

I saw this over at my friend Lucia's blog and loved it.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

An interview with my favorite nearly five year old girl:

L: What are you going to do when you are five?

I: I will play outside, help mommy clean, wash the dishes with her, actually... dry the dishes, help her trim the tree, help her clean up, help her organize my books, help her bring in the groceries, help her turn off the lights and give her a kiss and a hug. I will help her work in the garden and find worms. I want some garden fake scissors. Can I have real ones? That seems like all.

L: What is your favorite food?

I: Uhh...macaroni and cheese. Actually, my favorite food is Mommy.

L: What do you worry about?

I: I worry about when you get sick.

L: What do you want to be when you grow up?

I: I want to be a computer classer

L: Who is the funniest person you know?

I: Miss Heather

L: Who is the smartest person you know?

I: Miss Valerie

L: If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?

I: Umm... home. Just home.

L: Anything else you want to say about being five?

I: That's it.

B+W Wednesday: A Yee-Haw Thanksgiving

2010-11-30T22:16:00.009-05:00

A friend visiting for Thanksgiving gave Isabel a blinking sequined pink cowgirl hat for an early birthday present. She LOVES it!

[Click on photos for a clearer view.]

Throw in a little make-up and you get one happy little girl.

Check out other B+W photos this week over at Lisa's blog:

B+W Wednesday: Sunday Afternoon at the Park

2010-11-24T05:56:00.003-05:00

The weather here has been ridiculously warm for this time of the year, allowing us to spend more time outside.

After church, we headed over to a park and Isabel played hard. It never ceases to amaze me how children are able to meet people and just join in on the life of the moment with such ease.

Within minutes of arriving, Isabel was playing chase with another child. Shortly thereafter, she was on the swings, and then over to the monkey bars. We walked over to the duck pond and ... with the bread from a new friend we had just met... fed the ducks.

It was a beautiful afternoon.

Autumn Gardening

2010-11-20T23:07:00.005-05:00

It was one of those days that felt like

May was just around the corner...not December.

We spent time in the backyard

cleaning and filling bird feeders

exploring the bursting seed pods on our butterfly weed plants

(If you enlarge pic, you can see the seeds floating in the air)

and just digging in the dirt

Hard to believe that Thanksgiving is in five days!

B+W Wednesday: Well Grounded

2010-11-17T00:00:00.001-05:00

These are the only three shots from our trip to North Carolina that are not bathed in gorgeous golden light or framed by scarlet foliage. It was surprisingly difficult to focus on texture amidst the distraction of color.

Angels in our Midst

2010-11-16T06:10:00.003-05:00

I am amazed at the kindness of both friends and strangers. I went out to my car yesterday morning, only to have the engine not turn over. My neighbors had already left for work. I was really stuck with no way to get myself and my daughter to school. At that moment, an older lady who walks her dog past my house each morning came along and asked if I needed help. Long story short. She walked her dog back home, drove her car back to my house, got into the passenger seat and told me I could drive her car to drop off Isabel and then to get to school. I didn't even know the woman's name!

She told me she prays every morning to the Lord for someone to help and she just knew that I was that person. (I swear I could almost see the ruffles of her wings!)

Though I had no idea how we would get home, what was wrong with my car and how I would get it fixed, I had a peace that all would be fine. At school, I made a couple of calls. One retired friend picked up Isabel, took her for dinner and kept her at her home for me. Another couple met me at school, drove me home, worked on the car, got me to the auto store to get the engine tested, waited for me while I got a new battery and made she I was okay to go get Isabel.

I am truly humbled by the generosity of these people and the grace and protection of God.

It certainly gives me a new perspective on life this morning.

Enjoying a Glorious Fall Day

2010-11-11T16:07:00.005-05:00

Delicious autumn!

My very soul is wedded to it,

and if I were a bird I would fly about the earth

seeking the successive autumns.
George Eliot

North Carolina

2010-10-30T16:23:00.016-04:00

Growing up in New England, I have always loved autumn.

The crispness of the air, the blaze of color as the trees

shout out one last song before giving up their leaves.

Even after 30 years, I still miss it.

The closest I come to experiencing it is in North Carolina.

I have been blessed with having a dear friend live there for the last 20 years.

Two years ago I brought Isabel up there for the first time.

We did a lot of exploring,

Went apple picking,

ate hot apple donuts,

saw how tall we were

played in miniature houses,

fed ducks

and laughed ourselves silly.

Last weekend we returned.

It was glorious.

I was in heaven.

We stayed on a farm this time and woke up on Saturday to a morning in the 30s with frost on the ground. Isabel was in her glory.

She was surrounded by chickens, cats, and dogs.

She visited her first hen house and gathered eggs

She had wide fields of golden grasses to run in

and huge piles of leaves to run through.

We went back to the apple orchard

and saw how tall we are,

and played in miniature houses

and saw amazing foliage,

We discovered a small bamboo forest

We drank apple cider slushies,

ate hot apple cinnamon doughnuts.

and picked flowers

We met up with good friends,

laughed,

walked,

and ate well.

In all, the trip lasted less than two days

and yet it was enough to tie us over...

at least until next year.

B+W Wednesday: Serenity

2010-10-19T00:01:00.000-04:00

After church on Sunday, Isabel and I headed over to the local Town Center to shop. I was able to catch these shots of her...

unusual, in that, she was not in motion.

See more photos at:

Butterfly ... I mean... October Fest

2010-10-15T22:48:00.006-04:00

Great music...

laughter, face paintings, cake walk,

bales of hay, popcorn, cotton candy, ice cream, bouncy houses...

Pure bliss for a four year old

B+W Wednesday: Friends

2010-10-12T00:01:00.004-04:00

Two-legged or four, there's nothing like a friend.

A-Maizing Afternoon

2010-10-09T18:30:00.004-04:00

With the autumn weather upon us, Isabel and I headed up to a nearby Corn Maze this morning. It was opening day and the place was bustling with activity. We ended up meeting two of her classmates there. The girls had a blast riding the Cow Train, seeing the animals, taking a hayride and listening to some live music. Heading out to Movies Under the Bridge in a little bit. A wonderful fall day spent outside enjoying the weather.

BW Wednesday: My Own Sweet Isabel

2010-09-29T00:00:00.005-04:00

And now time for a picture of my Isabel. After years of loving to have her picture taken, she has not been all that interested lately. (I am sure hoping it is a stage!) However, experience has taught me that a little bribery has been known to work at times. So... last weekend we headed out to the beach for a shoot late in the day to catch the sunset. I was excited to work with evening light, as I have only shot during the morning. Unfortunately, we got there too late and the pictures came out way too dark. I was really disappointed. This was an example of what I got.

I have to say, had I not gone to Lisa's photography workshop last July, I surely would have deleted all of the pictures. Fortunately, (despite the breakdown on the grassy knoll on day two of the workshop) I actually DID learn to shoot in RAW and was able to put what I learned to the test. It's amazing what you can salvage in this format. And, with the help of Maddy, I also (finally) figured out how to use textures.

The first image below is with the editing in Photoshop with the exposure, including my first attempt at textures. I really like how it came out but was still a bit confused on using masks to soften the effect of the texture overlay on the subject.

I went back through my notes and finally figured it out. I continue to be amazed at all I learned at the workshop. At times I thought my brain was going to burst but slowly... it is all starting to click. A big thank you to the wonderful ladies who were so very patient and kind. It paid off. I never would have guessed that this final picture could have come from that first dark one.

I really love it. What do you think?

And, as always, be sure to pop on over and see more B+W photos by clicking here:

B+W Wednesday: Baptism Weekend

2010-09-22T00:01:00.006-04:00

Forgive the number of pictures in this post

but... really...

how could I pick just one?

Is she not just the cutest baby?

McKenzie's Baptism Photo Shoot

2010-09-19T23:08:00.009-04:00

A glorious Saturday morning

and a beautiful baby girl

made for a great photo shoot.

Sweet Julia

2010-09-09T00:00:00.000-04:00

I teach high school freshmen. I absolutely love them.

They are goofy, awkward, fun and unsure of themselves.

They are learning to maneuver that ride called adolescence.

It is usually not until graduation that I really see

the amazing adults that these students of mine have become.

I am used to lanky bodies and unsure steps... both physically and socially.

And so, it was such a refreshing change to be able to photograph a senior.

This young lady was as sweet as she was beautiful.I love the grace and elegance that she conveys.

It's amazing what a difference four years makes.

Bee Still

2010-09-04T14:28:00.006-04:00

With the weather in the low to mid 80s today,

I decided to go out and work in the garden.

Suddenly I heard a loud buzzing and saw a big fat bumblebee

approaching the pollen of the butterfly weed plants near me.

I ran in and got my camera... not really expecting it to still be there.

Amazingly, it was.

I was able to catch some cool shots with my 50mm 1.4 lens.

I know they are not perfectly crisp but...

not bad for a non-macro lens.

B+W Wednesday: Oh, Baby!

2010-08-31T21:30:00.006-04:00

Could these two baby girls be any cuter???

Sweet MacKenzie and Lovely Nora.

What a treat to be able to photograph both of them.

Today on the Diane Rehm Show

2010-08-30T14:57:00.004-04:00

While listening to NPR in my car at lunch, I heard this wonderful interview on the Diane Rehm show with Scott Simon about his new book, Baby, We Were Meant for Each Other. Great Stuff about first meeting his daughters in Nanchang, Jiangxi, China. (I am a bit partial, as I met Isabel in the same city.)

Coming up for Air...

2010-08-29T21:40:00.009-04:00

After a pretty mellow summer, these last two weeks back to school have been a whirlwind. While I stayed busy around the house, Isabel had a phenomenal time attending camp for the first time. I was so excited for her to attend this specific camp. It is an amazing place. The curriculum was top notch, the facilities impeccable and the counselors... amazing.

Each two week session focused on a different theme. During a unit on plants and gardening in July, they actually brought a real tractor to the camp for the kids to investigate and climb all over. In August, a theme about the sea had local experts bringing in live crabs, lobsters, squid and octopus. Hands on education at its best. Isabel's two counselors were older women that were veterans of working with preschoolers... a far cry from the adolescents I had envisioned.

We wanted to make cupcakes to bring on the last day to celebrate the end of a great summer. Earlier in the month, I had received an email from Grace Lin saying she had a few customized cupcake toppers left over from her recent wedding, and that if anyone wanted one, to simply email her. Now, I just LOVED these toppers when I first saw them. This woman is such an amazing artist and author. (I feel a special kinship to her since she lives up the street from my grandmother's house in Massachusetts.) But I digress....

I emailed her but figured there was NO way I would have been one of the first folks to do so. I really didn't think there was any way I would get one. So, you can imagine my surprise to see it show up in my mailbox the morning of the cupcake making. Can I just say that this is the cutest thing!!! Of course, I might be just a tad partial since it looks a lot like Isabel. : ) We brought the cupcakes with the center one proudly donning its topper. The other kids loved it. Who wouldn't?

School started the following Monday for me with a week of preplanning. Isabel started VPK (Voluntary PreKindergarten) this past Monday. She is very excited about being "an Upper". Who knew there was a hierarchy in preschools??? LOL! She is especially looking forward to tomorrow when, according to her teacher, she will get her first homework assignment. I wish I could bottle that excitement for my own students. : )

A great surprise this past month was related to both camp and school. While walking through the camp parking lot one afternoon, we heard Isabel's name being called. A old friend of hers from a former preschool was driving with her mom by us. The girls were ecstatic to see each other and we moms exchanged emails to see about a playdate for them. We ended up getting together last weekend. To say it was a hit would be an understatement. I can't remember the last time my daughter had so much fun. Full princess fashion shows, Barbies, games, the obligatory bed-jumping and the highlight... riding and driving in a Barbie car. Watching them driving amidst the peals of laughter, I found myself thrust fast forward 12 years to when they will both probably have their license. Phew!

We ended up getting together again last night for a movie with the coolest venue... under a bridge with an interstate above us. The breeze felt wonderful coming off the river and it was the first time since last spring that I had felt some respite from this heat while outside.

And so... time marches on. School is back in full swing. Life is busy and full. Though I am pretty tired adjusting to this new up-at-5:00-and-out-the-door-by-6:30 schedule of ours, I wouldn't change a thing.

Thelma and Louise: The Sequel

2010-08-25T06:18:00.003-04:00

Still Alive here!

2010-08-23T16:43:00.006-04:00

So much to get caught up on but for now....

The First Day of VPK.

(Where in the world did my baby go???)

I laughed at her feet.

Seems like those ballet lesson paid off. LOL.

Parent Rap Videos...Love them!

2010-08-08T03:32:00.003-04:00

I saw this first video right around Father's Day.

I almost spit out my coffee laughing at the Disney movie scene.

This second one cracked me up with the kid

announcing she had to go to the bathroom.

You have to love the creativity in both of then.

Enjoy!

(Thanks to Motherlode for putting them both together.)

Senior Photo Shoot

2010-08-06T01:20:00.003-04:00

I had such a wonderful time this week doing a photo shoot of two lovely local seniors who are cousins. We ended up spending over two hours together at three different venues. What beautiful young ladies.

I loved being able to photograph them!

B+W Wednesday: Bethlehem 2

2010-08-04T00:46:00.003-04:00

Still working my way through editing the photographs from last week's amazing workshop. This young man was such a natural. I wish I had taken more shots of him and his brother. They were both so photogenic.

B+W Wednesday: Bethlehem

2010-07-27T23:28:00.005-04:00

I really don't think in all my years of college, I have ever had so much information and knowledge packed into my brain in so short a period of time as I did this past weekend. Lisa, of The Long Road to China, has been teaching online Photoshop courses this past spring. Many of us asked her to consider teaching a photography workshop. Initially, she directed us to other photographers but, after a couple of months she reconsidered and organized an incredible weekend.

I can't say enough about it. The fifteen of us gathered from all over the US (and Canada too!) to immerse ourselves in our passion for photography. We arrived on Friday and spent the evening together eating, drinking and getting to know each other. Saturday we were up bright and early and had an intensive morning session on all-things-camera: manual settings, aperture, ISO, shutter speed, focus points, light metering, composition, and RAW vs. JPEG.

Two hours later, we were shooting our first models: two amazing children and a lovely preteen. We broke for lunch and then headed back out for the bride and groom session, and ended the afternoon with a family with two sweet boys.

With my head spinning (and sweat flowing) I headed back to the hotel to upload the > 700 pictures I had taken, take a shower and grab a quick nap. At 6:oo, we all headed out to another restaurant with wonderful food.

Sunday morning, Lisa led us all in an intensive 4-hour Lightroom/Photoshop session. I tried to absorb as much as I could and was quite surprised that I retained so much. Lisa is a wonderful teacher. She is organized and kept us on-task and on schedule.

It was the best little vacation I could ever have asked for.

While I will [no doubt] be spending a week or two getting through all the photographs, here are three for today's B+W Wednesday. The first is of the little brother from the last group of models. Could this little guys be any cuter??? The last two are of the bride and groom. I have to confess... I was quite shocked that ANY of them came out. Their photo session was when I had my first little breakdown. I am a language person; numbers are most definitely NOT my forte. Trying to figure out ISO and shutter speed at the same time as aperture just about did me in. When I looked on my little screen, all of the pictures looked beyond fixing. I am so glad I was able to get a few. (They were the cutest couple!)

More pictures will be coming.

Stay tuned.

[As always, click on photos to enlarge.}

What an Incredible Time!

2010-07-27T10:18:00.010-04:00

This past weekend I joined 15 other women from across the United States and Canada for a photography workshop in Bethlehem, PA. It was led by Lisa who is an amazing photographer. Though definitely the newbie in the bunch, I knew I wanted to take my photography to a new level and so took the plunge.

Talk about being out of my comfort zone! I went into the weekend with a new camera, my favorite zoom lenses and a new 50mm 1.4 prime lens that I had recently bought (but not yet figured out how to use correctly.) I figured I might as well "go for it" and decided to shoot only in manual mode (for the first time ever), only with the new lens, and only in RAW.

As overwhelming as it was... (I had few "moments" of losing it with all the numbers to remember), I am so glad I went for it. I am still going through my pictures and can't believe the difference in my photos. It was an amazing weekend with incredible women and one unbelievable leader. Thank you so much, Lisa, for all the organization and preparation that went into making this weekend so wonderful.

And now... back to editing....

[Click on photo to enlarge]

One More Day!!!!!!

2010-07-22T20:22:00.005-04:00

I am so excited to be participating in a weekend photography workshop starting tomorrow. Fifteen of us from all over the country (and one Canadian gal) will be gathering for fun, girl time and (oh yeah!) honing our camera and Photoshop skills.

I can hardly wait!!!

Tick, tock, tick, tock.............

Fountain at The Cummer Museum Gardens

B+W wednesday: Jon Michael

2010-07-21T00:00:00.002-04:00

Head on other to Lisa's blog to check out some other amazing photos!

Loving my new Camera!

2010-07-20T19:58:00.004-04:00

B+W Wednesday: Four Generations

2010-07-14T00:00:00.002-04:00

What an honor to be able to shoot this family. The matriarch is an amazing woman ... strong in faith and generous in love. She raised ten children, one of whom I became friends with in college. I have been blessed by all of them for three decades. I was so happy to be able to capture these images of four generations, from one year old to eighty-six.

[Click on images to enlarge and see more details]

Pop over to Lisa's blog to see more B+W photos:

My New Love

2010-07-08T19:10:00.003-04:00

Adobe Lightroom 3

Black and White Wednesday

2010-07-07T09:58:00.004-04:00

On Monday, I was able to do a photo shoot of a family I have known for 30 years. I wanted to capture images of the four generations that were together this past weekend. I love how they came out. This picture is of the two youngest generations. Amazingly, the mom here was not much older than the baby when I first met the family.

Be sure to pop over to Lisa's site and check out some other B+W shots.

Happy Independence Day!

2010-07-04T14:40:00.001-04:00

Saturday With Lambie and Tutu

2010-07-03T22:33:00.005-04:00

B+W Wednesday: Swimming Lessons

2010-06-30T00:00:00.001-04:00

Summer camp started last week. The highlight of the day is (without a doubt) the swimming lessons. The director called me the second day to tell me that Isabel was having so much fun in the pool and that her swim coach was, amazingly, one of my former students. Not only that! She was my student the year I got Isabel.

What a small world!

Check out other folks' photos this week over at Lisa's blog:

Gotcha!

2010-06-28T20:46:00.003-04:00

So excited for my cousin.

Her mom and my mom are sisters.

Both had three children.

The six of us cousins were close growing up.

Who could have forseen

that decades later the next generation

would include two little cousins from China?

So excited for you, Bernadette!

Denial

2010-06-26T11:38:00.002-04:00

One way to deal with the Florida heat

First Things First

2010-06-25T22:10:00.009-04:00

While it may seem like old hat to most of you...

this week has been a time of firsts for me and Isabel.

You see... Monday was her first day of summer camp.

And...

since the school she has attended since she was 18 months old includes lunch...

this was also the first time she has had a lunchbox.

(okay... it is actually more of a bag).

And...

it is also the first time I have made her lunch.

All of this brought with it an unexpected wave of melancholy

as I recognize that her baby-toddler years are really over.

Everyone tells you that this time flies by so fast,

to cherish every moment because it will be gone before you know it,

but in the midst of living it...you forget.

Until it is a Monday morning

and you are wrapping a sandwich in waxed paper,

writing a note on it with a Sharpie

telling your soon-to-be pre-K student that you love them.

What a fast three years this has been.

Summer 2007

Welcome to the Family!

2010-06-24T11:39:00.003-04:00

My cousin leaves today for China.

We are so excited to welcome Alexandrea to the family.

Safe travels, Bernadette!

At The Water's Edge ~ As Large As Alone

2010-06-23T00:00:00.001-04:00

When I sent these two photos to a good friend of mine, her response was:

"It almost looks like Fizz ( Isabel's nickname) caught the sun in her bucket...very cool.

The first shot could be made into a poem."

[I loved her comments.]

And so, Jackie, here you are:

maggie and milly and molly and mae

by e.e.cummings

maggie and milly and molly and mae

went down to the beach (to play one day)

and maggie discovered a shell that sang

so sweetly she couldn't remember her troubles, and

milly befriended a stranded star

whose rays five languid fingers were;

and molly was chased by a horrible thing

which raced sideways while blowing bubbles: and

mae came home with a smooth round stone

as small as a world and as large as alone.

For whatever we lose (like a you or a me)

it's always ourselves we find in the sea.

Click to see others' photos over at Lisa's blog:

I [heart] Faces: Celebrating Teens

2010-06-21T08:21:00.004-04:00

Ready for Prom

Bye Bye, Nai Nai

2010-06-17T15:35:00.007-04:00

It has been a wonderful week having my mom down here visiting. Her one request... a trip to the beach... was finally granted this morning. Between the triple digit (yes, you read that correctly!) temperatures and the sudden thunderstorms, it didn't look like we were going to be able to get there. However, today (on the day of her departure) we headed out early in the morning and were able to catch a couple of hours before heading out to the airport. She and Isabel built sand castles, collected shells and splashed in the surf.

A more beautiful way to end our time together, I cannot fathom.

B+W Wednesday: Nai Nai

2010-06-16T00:00:00.005-04:00

My mom moved back to New England two years ago when Isabel was only two.

She is an amazing woman who raised the three of us as single mom.

She instilled within us a love for music, a sense of humor, the joy of storytelling and the importance of an education. She is tough and compassionate.

As they say... velvet steel.

She is also a survivor.

Almost eighteen years ago, she was diagnosed with a rare terminal disease.

She was given three months to live.

While her life has most definitely been compromised by the disease,

she has clearly beaten the odds.

This past year has been a rough one for her medically.

In September she had open heart surgery.

A month later, back surgery which resulted in serious complications.

Being halfway across the country was both frustrating and sobering.

There were days when I didn't know if I would ever see her again.

But...

she is a fighter who (in her own words) "gets her Irish up" at times.

I am so thankful to have her visiting with us this week.

She is Isabel's only grandparent.

It warms my heart to walk in the front door and see them together.

On Sunday I had a cook-out for her and invited a bunch of folks to celebrate with us.

Folks from the 19 years she lived here came to see their friend.

The joy was palpable.

Oh Sweet Nikon, how I have longed for you!

2010-06-15T14:41:00.012-04:00

At long last... I finally bought the camera I have lusted for wanted for over two years.

(Double Click each image to truly appreciate the details.)

And Meow, for some more pictures...

2010-06-13T21:47:00.006-04:00

Rehearsal in the morning was followed by a stop by the gourmet Cupcakery.

Later on that afternoon was that rite of passage, The First Dance Recital.

What's New, Pussycat?

2010-06-13T13:27:00.006-04:00

First dance recital yesterday.
Too cute.
Thankfully, not too long.

Where did my baby go?

(More pics later)

Graduation

2010-06-09T00:19:00.009-04:00

Eighteen years ago I was with my college friend as she was in the middle of labor. As fate would have it, everyone in her very large (10 kids) Italian family got hit with the flu and were not allowed into the birthing room. I got to be there when Olivia was born. Last month, I got to photograph her and friends getting ready for the Prom. This past weekend, she graduated.

After the outdoor ceremony (it was so humid, you felt like you were eating the air) we headed out to lunch at the same oceanside restaurant that Olivia's parents had had their wedding reception years before. There were 16 of us ranging in age from 13 months to 86 years. The kids even got to watch a family of three dolphins playing in the waves outside the window for about five minutes.

I am so very thankful for the gift of this family... they have been a constant in my life for over 30 years.

Check out more B+W pics over at Lisa's blog

Keeping My Head Above Water

2010-05-25T18:51:00.002-04:00

Just a quick update to let you know all is fine.

I am in week 4 of 6 weeks of non-stop testing.

Things should resume to normal in a week or two.

B+W Wednesday

2010-05-12T00:01:00.000-04:00

Friday afternoon, Isabel and I headed back down

to Saint Augustine to photograph my dear friend's daughter

getting ready for her prom.

The first shot is of Olivia and her grandmother.

I just love the expressions on their faces.

Pure love for each other.

The gown was an incredibly iridescent blue satin

that looked and moved like water.

Isabel couldn't have been happier.

She felt like she was in a princess movie.

Join in on the fun by popping on over to Lisa's blog

to see some more photographs.

Happy Mothers Day

2010-05-09T22:54:00.003-04:00

The moment a child is born, the mother is also born.

She never existed before.

The woman existed, but the mother, never.

A mother is something absolutely new.

~Rajneesh

Backyard Vistas

2010-05-06T04:08:00.004-04:00

We spent most of the weekend in the backyard...

working, weeding, digging, watering, playing.

So good to get your hands in soil.

Our first tomato is just about ready to pick.

It will be the first one I have ever grown.

I am so excited to taste it.

We have basil growing as well.

Can't wait to eat them together...

maybe with some fresh mozzarella and balsamic vinegar.

Yum.

The Ligustrum

and Confederate Jasmine are in full bloom.

The crepe myrtle foliage has arrived

as has the Satsuma Orange tree.

and we had out first hummingbird sighting this afternoon

at the honeysuckle.

Who knows what exciting adventures lie ahead this summer?

B+W Wednesdays: Yard Work

2010-05-05T00:00:00.009-04:00

Snapshots during a break from

working in the backyard this weekend.

Though some of the pictures are not all that sharp in detail,

I love the range of looks they hold ...especially in the eyes.

The first shot is a classic Isabel smile... with very happy eyes.

She is a very happy kid... but she is also VERY funny.

I just LOVE the character of the second and the last ones.

They crack me up and show a more complete side of mini Me.

[I really do wish she would get over her fear of the camera, though.]

; )

Check out more other photos from some amazing folks over at

Let the Testing Begin!

2010-05-01T09:54:00.003-04:00

Welcome May... ye month of flowers, birds, sunshine and...

non-stop testing.

Starting Monday, my poor students embark on over four weeks of testing.

Teaching at a college prep school is such an extraordinary experience. I am that rare person who loves her job and looks forward to going to work each day. I know how blessed I am and never take it for granted. I absolutely adore my students and am so thankful to be able to spend my days among the life, energy, laughter (and occasional teenage angst) of freshmen students. Their ability to juggle the demands of a rigorous academic load, innumerable extracurricular activities and the general stress of being an adolescent astounds me.

The culmination of all their AP and IB courses is the exams. This is in addition to their final exams, county EOC (end of course exams) and MAP exams. I really don't know how they do it. I can barely figure out the proctoring schedule for the next month!

And so, during this final weekend of possible rest, I wish all my students clarity and presence of mind, peace and calmness of spirit. Stay in the present and know how amazing you are.

B+W Wednesdays: Oh Baby

2010-04-28T02:06:00.004-04:00

Love this shot of one of several babies that were at the

(appropriately monikered) baby shower last Saturday.

B+W Wednesdays: Strike a Pose!

2010-04-21T00:00:00.004-04:00

Sooo... Isabel and I went to a baby shower on Saturday.

After the gift opening and eating, we decided to

go out in the backyard to play with the puppy.

These shots were too bright due to the Florida sun.

The light was strong and harsh but... the poses were sort of cool.

I had fun cropping, editing and converting them to B+W.

Here are the three original shots:

And here are the edited versions of the same three:

(I really like the sassiness of all of them, especially the last one.)

What do you think?

Oopsie!!!

2010-04-19T22:45:00.008-04:00

As single mom with no family living in this part of the country to give me help, survival for me depends a LOT on routines. This is especially true lately since my daughter's new school has added an additional hour and a half to our daily commute. (I should probably insert here that I am not, never have been and never will be... a morning person.) It's not that I am mean in the morning; I just function a lot better at night.

And so I have learned that everything I need to get done for the next day... I usually do the night before. Things like making lunch, setting out breakfast, getting the coffee ready, laying out both of our clothes and packing my little plastic tote bag for the gym.

Well I apparently forgot to throw my sneakers in the bag last night because when I grabbed the tote this morning, I realized they weren't on top. I looked in my closet and couldn't find them. That's when I remembered ~~tripping over~~ seeing them in the office. Not wanting to awaken Isabel down the hall by turning on the light, I just walked in, reached down and grabbed them, and threw them in the bag. No big deal.

That is... until this afternoon...at the gym. I arrive, take my stuff into the dressing room, get dressed and then go to put on my sneakers. That's when reality stared me in the face.

Yup. You guessed it. Two left feet.

[Mental note: must take care of this tonight

or I'll be repeated this again tomorrow.]

Fenandina Beach

2010-04-19T00:01:00.006-04:00

Yesterday we drove up to Fernandina Beach to hear Isabel's godfather. He is the new music minister at the Ameila Island Chapel. It's been years since I have been there and I'd forgotten how beautiful the area is. The chapel itself is set among gardens and is designed with ample glass to take in the scenary.

The result is an effect of actually being outside.

After church we headed over to a nearby restaurant that overlooked a fish and turtle filled pond which they kids LOVED! The afternoon was filled with gorgeous spring weather, a great time catching up with some old friends and incredible food. I had a salad with marinated artichoke hearts, roasted peppers and Kalamata olives, topped with goat cheese. Just scrumptious.

It might be worth the drive back just to eat it again!

Is it JUST me.....

2010-04-18T17:20:00.002-04:00

... or does anyone else find this sign remotely disturbing?

(That is, in light of its location.)