Amanda Mays

The world's most heinous crime

2008-12-04T15:31:00.000-08:00

CNN is broadcasting a genocide documentary called "Scream Bloody Murder", TONIGHT December 4th @ 9pm. The CNN Presents Special hosted by Christine Amanpour includes interviews with survivors of Genocide. It will highlight the courageous individuals that tried to raise the alarm on the Holocaust, Cambodia, Rwanda, Iraq's gassing of the Kurds, and Bosnia/Croatia. A French priest in Cambodia. An idealistic U.S. Senate staffer in Iraq. A Canadian general in Rwanda. Each one tried to focus the world's attention on genocide. Each time, they were shunned, ignored or told it was someone else's problem.

Throughout history genocide has plagued different parts of the globe sometimes with little attention or aid being paid to the cries for help. Today as I write this genocide is alive and ravaging Darfur. For six long years hundreds of thousands of people have been killed.

Genocide - any of the following acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnically, racial or religious group, as such: killing members of the group; causing serious bodily or mental harm to members of the group; deliberately inflicting on the group conditions of life, calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part; imposing measures intended to prevent births within the group; [and] forcibly transferring children of the group to another group.

As many as 400,000 innocent people have been killed and more than 2.5 million more have been driven from their homes. These refugees now face starvation, disease, and rape, while those who remain in Darfur risk torture, death, and displacement.

Be part of the solution learn more about genocide and how you can help starting with this documentary. And then something as easy as signing an online petition is a good start in seeing this brutality stopped.

St Jude :: Choose Hope :: Juicy Couture

2008-12-02T16:13:00.001-08:00

St. Jude has teamed up with Juicy Couture to offer these exclusive

Hope Gift Book products:

Large Juicy Tote

Heart Charm Key Fob

Juicy Couture Locket Necklace

100% of profits, after all related expenses, benefit

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

BAD Santa - Terror in Toyland

2008-12-02T10:48:00.000-08:00

As a mom I know how going to get Santa pictures can be stressful. First off you have to find a cute outfit, then get them to wear it. You have to fight holiday traffic and crowds only to stand in line for god knows how long. You talk the little suckers up the whole time about how great it's going to be to see Santa, sit on his lap, tell him all the super cool things you want him to bring you. Finally you get to the hopefully decent looking Santa pay your bajillion dollars and cross your fingers that little Susie will at least look at the camera and if your really lucky the rugrat might flash a smile. Sounds like a great afternoon to me ;)

Now imagine your the kid, you sense your parents stress, mixed with that familiar hope that you will behave. You've been hearing all about this rockin santa guy that magically gives you all your hearts desires. Your stuck wearing this stupid tie or god forbid hat and expected to be patient in a line that's taking FOREVER. This better be good! After a million years it's your turn and you see this...

"He's huge and hairy and hulking. He dresses in strange furry clothing. He sneaks into people's homes at night.Who wouldn't be afraid of . . . Santa Claus?!? "

Your eyes are huge, your mom's repeatedly telling you to smile, you got some chick squeaking an Elmo at you while trying to tickle you with some weird dusty thing, Santa smells like cheese or even worse old spice and after 2 minutes of terror all you get is a stupid candy cane and the hope that Santa heard you when you said you wanted a red ryder BB gun (fingers crossed)!

I cry LAME and so do all these little punkin heads...

Poor Babies!

"Nothing says Christmas like innocent children shrieking with terror as a hulking red stranger drags them onto his lap."

Quotes from Harper Collins book "Scared of Santa, Scenes of Terror in Toyland"

"Now this time-honored rite of passage is celebrated with a hilarious collection of more than two hundred and fifty priceless photos of kids' traumatic trips to Santa's workshop. Scared of Santa offers a cornucopia of photographic funnies - from sixty-year-old family heirlooms to last year's howlers-along with delightful commentary on those unforgettable childhood visits to scary ol' Saint Nick."

Funny stuff... You can buy the book at Barnes and Noble or just skim through it next time your there. And either laugh hysterically or feel sorry for all the traumatized youths on the pages.

I'm sorry but something about this is hilarious to me!

Hope about you do you have any scared Santa pictures or stories?

Cutting the Red Ribbon...

2008-12-01T08:06:00.000-08:00

I'm a little late on the official ribbon cutting for the holiday season which as of today is in full gear. How many of you went holiday crazy this weekend? I didn't do much shopping but we did bust out the tree, start the decorating and cranked up the holiday tunes! So far this year I'm feeling good about the holiday season, it's not over saturated (yet) and with the economy being as it is there has been less emphasis on all the wants with more attention being paid to cutting back and giving back. Speaking of giving back .... ;)

Today is the 20th annual World Aids Day, a day in which special attention is paid to the global aids epidemic. Day's like this are extremely important in bringing home awareness to issues and causes that may be overlooked throughout the year. Everyone knows about HIV & Aids, everyone knows Bono, everyone has seen (RED) products but how often on a daily basis do we think about the more than 25 million people that have died of AIDS since 1981 or the 33.0 million people currently living with this disease, half of which are children? This day brings those people to the fore front of our minds!

A lot of times when things don't directly involve us people tend to be removed from the issue and have a ho hum attitude towards what their personal role can be in it. You may not have a ton of money to donate or time to spend to this or any cause but there is always something that you personally can and should do to help.

Something as simple as just spreading the word does wonders to keep up awareness and social consciousness, tell a friend, blog about it, add a badge to your website or other site. Above that you could donate to a variety or organizations like these Avert, AIDS Alliance, World Vision or find your own at Charity Navigator.

If your a shopper... check out the awesome products at Join Red, create your own Converse, buy a t-shirt at the gap, or soothe your crusty lips with Kiehls lip balm, send a greeting from Hallmark, ( I use the Hallmark thank you cards and used (RED) gift wrap during my launch party and in other applications around the house) These and many other product's all donate a portion of their sales to AIDS research or aid. If your buying anyway why not buy socially conscious products?

Happy World AIDS Day!

A Thankful Heart

2008-11-26T17:36:00.000-08:00

Take nothing for granted, for whatever you do,

The joy of enjoying will be lessened for you.

For you'd rob your own life much more than you'll know

When we fail to respond or in any way show

Our thanks for blessings that daily are ours ~

The warmth of the sun, the fragrance of flowers,

The beauty of twilight, the freshness of dawn

The coolness of dew on a green velvet lawn,

The kind little deeds so thoughtfully done,

The favors of friends and the love that someone

Unselfishly gives us in a myriad of ways,

Expecting no payment and no words of praise.

Oh, great is our loss when we no longer find

A thankful response to things of this kind.

For the joy of enjoying and the fullness of living

Are found in the heart that is filled with thanksgiving.

~ Helen Steiner Rice

_______________

With thanksgiving in my heart i'm wishing you all a

Happy Thanksgiving! =)

SOS...

2008-11-18T09:37:00.000-08:00

Happy Tuesday everyone!

I am extremely overwhelmed right now, I have more on my plate than ever before! Because nobody likes a pity party I'll spare you from all the details but I will say that my Internet is still down! The combination of both chase and I being sick for over a week now combined with my grandma passing away on Saturday has giving me little time to do anything!

I will try to blog more later this week but I did want to follow through (a day late) with announcing the giveaway winner! I have to admit I was a little disappointed at the turnout but I'll just amuse people don't like froyo ;) or it might have been from the lack of promoting on my part! Oh well perhaps I'll have a better turn out next time =)

The winner of the Red Mango $25 gift card is.... Jason ... first time commenter and new friend to me here! Congratulations Jason I will send you and e-mail or hit you up on facebook! Xtra special thanks to all the commenter's!

______________________________________________________

Thank you to all my friends that have been sending me out prayers and well wishes! You are extremely appreciated! Lots of Love ~ Amanda

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Celebrate 100 with Froyo !

2008-11-13T14:08:00.000-08:00

Welcome to my 100th Post!

To celebrate I am doing my 1st giveaway!

Back in march I mentioned I often have craving's for some yummy yum yum froyo from Red Mango. For those of you not in the know, Red Mango & Pinkberry are frozen yogurt franchises for the supercool ;) I'm no talking the low fat ice cream crap they call "frozen yogurt" to trick you into thinking your eating healthy ... cough **mcdonalds**... This is real 100% natural non fat frozen yogurt.

Typically you choose from original, green tea or sometimes a third flavor (pinkberry has coffee, yum!) and then you pick your toppings. You can be a good girl like me and get fresh fruits =) -I love strawberries, raspberries, & blackberries - or you can get a little more adventurous with something fun like chocolate chips, fruity pebbles, cap'n crunch, etc...

It's the best of both world's! You get a tasty treat without ton's of fat while also benefiting from eating a superfood rich in probiotic's, calcium and other good for your body ingredients.

Now to the really fun part I with give one lucky person in cyberspace a $25 giftcard to Red Mango. Just leave a comment below telling me what you'd order or if your not sure just say hi & that will count as well. I'll leave it open till Sunday 11/16 @ 9pm PST then announce the winner on Monday!

AND because "I sweet girl, I do nuttin wroong" I'll pass along this deal too...

Free treats for everyone!!!

Okay not "everyone" just you ambitious few that can't turn down a freebie...

For Red Mango locations click this.

Come on people... comment away, no more lurkers! =)

Tree for All :: Space Needle

2008-11-12T10:56:00.000-08:00

Have good times this season at the Space Needle all while giving back to the community!

Sounds like a win - win to me!

Your charity will receive $5 back for every Adult ticket and $2.50 back for every Senior or Youth ticket, purchased at the ticket booth or online with a tree for all voucher.

So, pick your favorite charity from this list, print out thier voucher and visit the needle anytime between November 12 - December 24, 2008.

Why not make a day of it! Go ride the carousel or have fun ice skating (in my case falling on my butt) at the Starbucks Ice Rink during Winterfest.

Tamara :: Portrait Session

2008-11-10T15:51:00.000-08:00

Check out this beauty I was lucky enough to do a session for...

Tamara is such a sweetie and was a true pleasure to photograph. She was giving me all kinds of difference looks every frame, a true natural in front of the camera.

Tamara - It was a pleasure working with you! I hope you enjoy your pictures! =)

Disconnected = SUCK!

2008-11-05T16:43:00.000-08:00

Hi folks! I'm doing a rare post from my computer at the 9-5er. It so silly now a day, employers actually get mad when you blog and surf blogs all day, well unless that's your job but in most offices it's frowned upon. Imagine that? ;)

So I know I've said this the other times I was a bad blogger and didn't post but I really do have loads to share! Ton's of pictures people... ton's of pictures!

My wireless connection has been down for 8 days and counting. Admittedly I'm no computer expert, but I'm no dummy either. I've set up connections and fixed connections for years yet this one has me stumped. I blame Windows... curse you Bill! The obvious answer would be to just plug directly into the wall but that's not possible, I need to be in my own cozy space so wireless it has to be.

The last few days have been spent transferring data to both my external drives so that I can reformat and reinstall windows. Hopefully it will work and be a lean mean internet connecting machine like it used to be by this weekend. Wish me luck!

I NEED MY "INTERNETS"!!!!

Happy Monday!

2008-10-27T08:13:00.000-07:00

Amanda's recipe on how to turn a super tired, raining, crap Monday morning into a good day...

#1 Grande Non Fat Vanilla Latte

#2 "Perfect" cup of oatmeal

#3 Even though dead tired sing really loud to a favorite song in the car, I'm talking about top or your lungs pretending your in the video type of singing ;) repeat until you get to the office

#4 E-mail a friend 1st thing to find out how her weekend was

#5 Thank god for giving me another week =)

This was on my Cup this morning...

The Way I See It #239

It takes two seconds to tell the truth and it costs nothing. A lie takes time and it costs everything.

-- Randi RhodesRadio host.

08 Blogger Choice Awards...

2008-10-22T12:52:00.000-07:00

08 Blogger Choice Awards...
The Winners were announced and boy are they're some good ones! Some I have been following or have heard about and others are new discoveries, either way it's fun stuff. Congratulations to all the nominee's and winners.

Here are some of my Fav's from the list...

Winner for Best Food & nominee for Best Photography

The Famous Mrs. Ree @ Pioneer Woman - Got Best food for her cooking page Ree is great I love her style of writing and keeping it real. Her pictures and photography tips are awesome and have inspired many a women to photography they're dinners. Who doesn't love pioneer woman?

Winner for About Stuff - Best of all time

Confessions of a CF Husband Nate chronicles the life of himself and his wife Tricia who has Cystic Fibrosis. They of course had the amazing addition to their family with sweet little Gwyneth the "miracle baby". Nate's writing is lovable and fun. I have enjoyed reading about their journey through life and continue to pray for them as we all wait to read what's going to happen next.

Blog About stuff Runner up

Post secret is a blog by Frank Warren where people send postcards or make art pieces containing secret's. This wildly blog never ceases to surprise the hell out of me. The things people write are amazing and range from shocking, to sweet and heartfelt to just
plain crazy. Very interesting stuff. Post secret continues to grow and has released 4 books chalk full of secrets.

Best Animal

Lolcatz Icanhascheezburger ... I know okay! Maybe I'm a geek or weird but i don't care I think these cat's are freaking funny. Yes it is grammar challenged but in case you hadn't noticed so am I. That's my Seattle public skool edumacation!

Gossip Blog- 4th Runner up

I look forward to my NY magazine the CUT newsletter report every Tuesday morning. Why you ask??? Because that's when the FUG girls Heather & Jessica chat about the hills episode from the night before. If you just rolled your eyes after reading "the hills" then you need to go FUG yourself because this recap is not a normal review. It is a hilarious take on the shows happenings and fashion items seen in the night before episode. I heart it! I also enjoy the fug girls take on project runway & ‘New York Fugging City’.
My fav gossip site by far, funny stuff!

Best shopping site nominee

GreatGreenGoods is a shopping site full of eco goods made from recycled materials. I love browsing this site not only because of their unique products but because it reminds me to shop mindfully. If your at all concerned with sustainability I suggest checking it out.

How about you, did any of your favorites make the cut? If not why not share some of your fav's with us? Can't wait to see what you guys love reading!

Urban Unveiled Fall 2008

2008-10-20T23:46:00.000-07:00

Once again Urban Unveiled was amazing. I attended this event earlier in the year so I was super jazzed when i found out they were having another one. If you are a bride in the NW, a wedding vendor or just a wedding enthusiast this is a must see event. The decorations alone are worth seeing, not to mention the good foods, the Luly Yang fashion show, amazing vendors and the swag isn't bad either.

After the fashion show they have a raffle of about 20 great prizes, this time I won a prize, a SWEET prize at that! It's a brunch cruise for up to 20 people on Waterways Cruises valued at approx $1600, I told you it was sweet! I can't wait to plan that, I'm thinking a girls only birthday cruise with mimosa's lot's of mimosa's!

So I was smart this time and brought a camera! I had a blast capturing all the amazing details!

The program of vendors/ Resource guide

Lot's of lovely flowers

Doesn't it look yummy? It smelt good too!

I was too far up to get any good fashion show pictures but check out the slideshow on Jeff Laplante's blog they are awesome!

As you can see it's a great event. I look forward to attending them for a long time. You'll have to stay tuned to see more info from some of the great vendor's I had a chance to chat with.
And my cruise info and pictures later on in the year, So fun! =)

New Header + "SLC"

2008-10-20T07:09:00.000-07:00

So what do you think? Do you like???

I have been wanting to make a new one forever, but couldn't find the time. I still didn't have time but I had to make it happen because the old one was killing me. I featured some new fall pictures of the kiddos, but plan on changing those out hopefully at least once a month.

I'm still not sure if I'm in love with the whole design but it will do for now. Of course I had to keep with my colors, and I wanted to incorporate images as well as font and design elements from my cards and marketing pieces. The camera on the right is one of my most favorite things! I love it, it's one of those things that you display somewhere to collect dust but every time you see it, it makes you happy! I got it a year or so ago at the Lakeside (Bill Gates Alma mater) rummage sale for $3!!!

Lately I have been taking a lot of pictures of "stuff" meaning non humans ;) that I will hopefully be blogging about in the future and the camera was one of them. I hadn't intended on using it in the header and just stumbled onto the idea as i was searching my files for inspiration. I think it ended up being a pretty cool element though.

Here are some more flick's of my "SLC"= sweet little camera...

It's cool to think of the history in this.

Who were it's owners, where did they take it? How did it end up in the rummage sale?

And lastly one of the lil guy in action as a prop at the Launch Party

Business Card :: Round 2

2008-10-13T07:20:00.000-07:00

Here are the cards I'm using in addition to the round ones. Although I love my round cards, I wanted a traditional card as well. So I designed these to be used as appointment/referral cards.
I love having two cards! I've received really great feedback on both of them.

The color is not perfect in these photo's, I'm having serious calibration issues with my home monitor! ergh... but you get the point.

Happy Columbus Day!!! =)

Walk Now For Autism 08 - Seattle

2008-10-08T20:35:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday my friend Cathy, her daughter Calmerin, Chase and I all took part in the Walk Now For Autism walk. Despite the rain and strong winds ton's of people turned out to walk the gorgeous University of Washington campus. Sponsor's and walker's worked hard all year to raise funding and awareness for Autism Speaks, together we raised $250,000 of the $350,000 Seattle goal.

Raising funds and awareness for Autism is super important!!!!

Did you know Autism spectrum disorders are diagnosed in 1 in 150 children in the United States, affecting four times as many boys as girls?

" The diagnosis of autism has increased tenfold in the last decade. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have called autism a national public health crisis whose cause and cure remain unknown." .... did you read that right ... "no known cause or cure"

This is incredibly alarming and should be a hot topic on everyone's mind whether you know someone inflicted with autism or not. This disorder inflicts more US children than pediatric cancer, diabetes, and AIDS combined. Although autism is certainly not a new disorder it is the fastest-growing serious developmental disability. Why is this? Doesn't it make you mad that we don't know? Something has to be to blame for the rise and I want to know what it is!

"67 children are diagnosed per day - A new case is diagnosed almost every 20 minutes"

"Autism costs the nation over $35 billion per year, a figure expected to significantly increase in the next decade. Autism receives less than 5% of the research funding of many less prevalent childhood diseases"

Pediatric AIDS: Affects 1 in 8,000 / Funding: $394 million
Muscular Dystrophy: Affects 1 in 20,000 / Funding: $175 million

Autism: Affects 1 in 150 / Funding: $42 million

Do you see those numbers!!!! How does that possibly make any sense? Why is that acceptable to America? I do not have a child with autism or even have a child close to me with it, yet I am outraged by this! We as parents, we as a nation owe it to the children to speak up for autism!

This is why funding and awareness are so undeniably crucial.

Walkers

Sticker on my jeans ;)

Cathy

Look at these cute lil' walkers!

After the walk I got a ton of great pictures of these two. Stay tuned for those!

Speak up for Autism!

Join a walk in your city

Make a donation

Or at least keep the buzz going, talk about it, blog about it, bring awareness to it because without it our children will continue to be at risk!

Helpful link's: Jenny McCarthy's - Generation Rescue :: Autism Society of America

Business Cards :: Round Edition

2008-10-06T22:25:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it took me so long to show you all my sweet little round business cards! I took some pictures of them last week and just uploaded them tonight. But since they are raw, my lightroom is not working today and I'm too lazy to use adobe raw, I was planning on procrastinating a couple days longer. That is until I lucked out and came across the designers facebook today. So I used the image from her portfolio instead, Thanks Andrea!

Round Business Card Designer: Andrea La Valleur - Divine Fusion Design

Aren't they cool?

I also designed some standard rectangle ones to use as referral/appointment cards I will post those soon... Or... if you just can't wait you can preview it here! :)

Meet the Parents

2008-10-02T09:41:00.000-07:00

I had the enormous pleasure of photographing the Hilstad's with the newest addition to their family, Mr. Miles

Daddy the strong protector...

but also loving and fun!

Beautiful mommy

Nothing sweeter than grandma kisses!

Four Generations!!!

I almost died when she kissed his precious little feet! =)

I absolutly loved shooting this family, I took way longer than usual becuase I just couldnt get enough ;) They are so nice, very sincere and so in love with thier baby boy!

Thank you Hilstad's for letting me in your home and allowing me to capture your cute little family!

Danger is my Middle Name!

2008-10-01T06:04:00.000-07:00

:: Meet Miles Danger ::

Isn't he the cutest thing !!!

Look at him smiling!

Miles is so alert and super smart.

I was amazed at all the expressions he was giving me, such a natural little model

Check back tomorrow for more of Mr. Miles with his mommy, daddy, grandma and GREAT grandma!!!

Business Launch Party!

2008-09-29T20:14:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures from the Likas Organic & Amanda Mays Photography Business Launch Party.

Cathy Kalepo of Likas Organic Designs

Mother - Daughter Organic Apron's

Reversible Organic Apron with matching accessories

Prize Table

Amanda Mays Photography Table

The Betrayal of September

2008-09-23T23:18:00.000-07:00

It has been one year since I lost Sydney and a week since the world lost Preston. September used to be my favorite month but each year it seems something bad happens within those 30 days. Don't know why that is but I think October just might be pretty happy about being my new favorite month!

In memoriam...

To my angel baby Sydney, I often think of who you would be now, what would you be doing? Would you be like your brother or have a vibrancy all your own? Would you be crawling? What would my life be like with you in it? I miss you, I miss the you I never got to know, I miss the idea of my sweet baby girl. I'm sorry I haven't had your headstone put back, I'm sure "Orville" enjoyed the flowers chase left him because we couldn't find where to leave them for baby sister. I so wish things would have been different, but I thank god for the time I did have with you and the person I have become because of it!

To Preston, you have changed my life more than you will ever know. You were a great man and leave behind an undeniable legacy! I am sad that the world has lost you but I am glad that in the time you were here you touched and helped so many! I thank god for you and think about you almost every minute. Even though I sometimes wish I didn't have to experience what I did I thank god for putting me where he thought I should be. It was his plan for you as well as me and I am blessed to be linked to you in that way. I look forward to meeting you one day!

------

Sometimes it's hard to find answers to the way cards are dealt to you in life. But I have faith that all things happen for a reason and that these tough things have made me and will continue to mold me into the person I am suppose to be. Thank you to all of you who have kept me in your prayers it helps more than you know!

Postcards from the edge

2008-09-23T22:43:00.000-07:00

Greetings earthling's and loyal blog followers I am indeed still alive! I can't believe it has been over a month since my last post, time goes fast! I have been very busy! I realize that is not a good excuse as I know people that are a million more times busier than me and still find quality blog time. However it was time for me to take a little vaca from the Internet! I took a couple weeks off to spend more time with friends, family and myself.

Instead of my normal schedule of computer time I took chase out to ride his trike, went on walks, worked out, enjoyed the end days of summer, spent quiet time and just tried to re-prioritize myself. For awhile I was so focused and plugged into all things photography and computer related, I just needed time to be unplugged and ground myself. I think I am now better equipped to maintain a healthy balance between the two!

Here are the cliff notes of what I've been up to the last month...

I've had 3 shoots since my last post!
Got new business cards, I haven't even posted my old ones and I got new ones already!
I've had a chance to beta test Me Ra's Refuse to say Cheese forum! (can't wait till it goes live)
My Business launch Party was this past Saturday!
I've been developing all my marketing and printed materials as well as designing a new blog/website!
Lost 15 lbs!!!
Attended the I shoot People tour and the super fun PUG martini party!
I'm teaching my brother to drive!!!
Witnessed a life changing event.
Developed a knarly cold.
And just a ton more things I hope to share with you guys soon!

Thank you for hanging in there with me in my absence and keep coming back because I've got big things in the works my friends! =)

Adams Maternity Shoot

2008-08-17T21:33:00.000-07:00

3 going on 13?

2008-08-06T22:36:00.000-07:00

So tonight I'm out shopping while Chris and Chase are over at his auntie's house. Why did Chase call me on my cell phone and say ...

Chase - "Hi mommy! ... Can I sleep here?"
Me - (picture me dumb founded) "What?"
Chase- "Can I sleep over at here?"

Insert long pause because I am thinking and tripping out at the same time

Me- "Um... No come home, Don't you miss me"
Chase- "I love you, but I want to stay here"

After some more of him sweetly pleading his case and me saying " I don't think so bug" I finally say "okay let me talk to daddy". "Okay" meaning I'm done talking to you not "okay" you get to stay. He quickly passes the phone to Chris while excitingly exclaiming "she said okay!"

Are you kidding me? HE'S THREE!!!! What is going on?

How in the world is he #1 capable of so eloquently having this conversation with me? #2 isn't it WAY too early for sleep overs? #3 Isn't this the talk of like umm i don't know, a seven year old?

Oh man I thought I'd have a few good years left before I'd have to deal with this kind of stuff. I have a long road ahead of me!

Mr and Mrs Smith + 1 pooch & a little lady

2008-08-06T22:30:00.001-07:00

As promised here are more images from the Smith family session ...

Welcome

Mayzie and Daddy

Mayzie was the perfect little model!

She was very aware of the camera and kept giving me all kinds of expressions!

Of course I needed my "Urban Drama" shot ;)

She ducked down like this all on her own!

I love it, 1 of my fav's!

Love the expressions on Jenny and Shaun's faces,

they look like teenagers in love ;)

Being Silly

BIG Smooch Monster

She was such a good girl, chillen out while we did our dumb people stuff!

Blissful Dork

2008-08-05T21:46:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't been posting much lately, I'm still knee deep in editing and getting shoots online. Plus I've been taking more time to focus on working out on a semi daily basis. I lost 5lbs already only at least 10 more to go ;)

Anyway as I was scanning through my external drive I came across this picture I took while on our family trip

Hahaha I like when I come across little reminders of how much of a dork I am! What, don't you take picture's of the hotel freebies? ;)

I Love Bliss product's especially when they are free! One of the many perks of staying at Starwood hotels is fancy bathroom products. I was so freaking excited to get these babies @ the W. Every morning before we left the room I hid them in a drawer to make sure the maid left me a full new set =) I'm stocked up for a while now!

At home I use bliss clog-dissolving cleansing milk, I love the smell and it makes my skin feel really nice. If your looking for new products to add to your beauty regime Bliss has some awesome one's!

Okay I'm off to bed! Tomorrow I will post more pic's from the Smith Family Shoot!

Smith Family Teaser

2008-07-31T21:42:00.000-07:00

I decided to have a little fun with my "album cover" shot ;) I'll be posting more real soon!

One thing down, 523 things left to do!

2008-07-29T23:37:00.000-07:00

Okay so maybe it's not really 523 things but man it seems like it! I am tired of being so busy lately, I have so much to do and a lot of cool things to share with you guys but I'm fighting to find time to do it all. Hopefully by this weekend I'll be all caught up. The one thing I did complete though is my Business Launch Party invites, Hooray!

My friend Cathy and I decided to do a joint party/open house since we have both been building our business's for the past year. I can not tell you how great it is to have someone to be on this journey with! It will be so exciting to have this launch together, be there to encourage each other further, bounce idea's back and forth and then eventually see us both with successful ventures.

I've spent the last 4 hours designing these babies and just sent them to the printer's. They are 5 X 7 double sided linen postcards once they get here and we spruce up the envelopes I'll take a picture and show you.

For now here is the...

Front

Back

How do you think they turned out?

It's kind of hard to read the words online but in print they will be nice. I'm pleased with them. I still have a lot of other marketing pieces to do, the list is never ending!

I have lot's of pictures to post in the next week including a really great family shoot so check back in ;)

I'm out of kleenex !

2008-07-23T22:13:00.000-07:00

Last night I read "Comfort" by Ann Hood, it found me as so many great books do at Barnes and Noble. I am always amazed at the treasures I somehow find myself buying, it's as if I hear them calling me from the shelf "pick me... you need to read me". Not very often do I listen but when I do, man do I get lucky. This book is about the loss of Ann's 5 year old daughter Grace and her journey through the pain.

I got in bed and cracked the spine open on my new book. I had only meant to read a chapter or two before falling asleep but after the 1st page I knew it was going to be a long night. By the second page I was already crying and continued to do so for the next 182 pages! Seriously! Sometimes it was just a silent tear rolling down my check and other times I was a full on sobbing mess. I'm talking the kind of crying where you can't breathe and you struggle to see the words through your tears. Next to me while I read a feel my sleeping boy, I can feel his little body sweating next to me and I occasionally pause from the story to look at him and listen to him breathing.

I have a confession to make, I do that a lot, check to see if he's breathing. This may be a normal mom thing, I don't know because I've never talked to anyone about it, but since the day chase was born I've always had that almost painful fear of something happening to him. Because of this fear I keep him close, not the crazy super protective mom close , but the check on you in the middle of the night to make sure your breathing type of mom! Sometimes I scare myself just thinking of all the what ifs. As horrible as this may sound when I lost Sydney I had thoughts of "phew now Chase is even more safe" God would never take two of my babies right? It was almost as if I felt she was my one give and now that I gave her I would be safe from future loss. Of course I know logically that's not how it works. For added measure with every prayer, everyday, no matter what the subject, I always throw in my little" please keep Chase safe" plea.

It's amazing to me that I actually purchased and read this book given my own deep fear of losing my child. I am however so glad I did! Despite it being gut wrenching, the book was still very very good. As I finished it @ 3am only a mere 3 hours before I had to get up for work, I turned to the sleeping boy next to me, gave him some smooches, wrapped my arms around him and began my prayer...

" Lord thank you for all the many blessings you've given us. I pray for Ann and her family. I thank you for giving her comfort in the face of an unthinkable tremendous lose. I thank you for blessing her with Grace and I with Sydney, even if it was for such a short time. Thank you for this day lord... Please keep Chase safe, Please keep him safe... In your name I pray, Amen"

Truccia ::

2008-07-21T21:13:00.000-07:00

Disappointing the Toothfairy!

2008-07-17T21:41:00.000-07:00

Today is a sad day! I was official kicked out of the No Cavities Club!

I got my very first filling's in my adult teeth. How could this happen? I brush damn it ... I floss! How did I go 20+ years only to be struck with not 1 but 2 deep cavities? Don't even get me started on the surface ones that are forming. My enamel has betrayed me! I can no longer boast about my filling free mouth, which I did often, and when I'd get that look of disbelief I'd open wide and say "ook seee I gut naw filens"!

I remember as a kid I was so proud to get my no cavity club stickers, one time I even got a shirt...SCORE! I must admit as an adult with no filings I felt superior because of my near perfect teeth! Alas my tenor in the club is no more I am but mere common folk with a mouth full of fillings. Do you think they take the shirt back?

Highway 101... 392 mile check point!

2008-07-16T22:14:00.000-07:00

The best way to combat a long drive with a three year old is to have impromptu run around/photo shoots at cool places like this...

At this point on our road trip we were needing to get out and stretch a little. So when we saw this Harley shop we decided to stop so my dad could by my uncle a shirt and we could let chase play a little. Of course I had to get out my camera, who could resist those colors!

He does those poses all on his own! He's such a little goof ball!

Andrew Part Deux

2008-07-10T20:43:00.000-07:00

My attempt at a silhouette

After the shoot we stopped at dicks to eat and have a little fun...

The following may not be appropriate for some viewers ;)

The Curious Crab

2008-07-08T23:25:00.000-07:00

He's at that age!

Do the questions ever stop???

Meet Baby Cole

2008-07-06T23:12:00.000-07:00

Last week I had the pleasure of capturing 1 month old Cole.

Check out this cutie ...

Love how you can see the baby fuzz in this picture!

Proud Papa!

After an hour he was sick of me and pictures!

Hence the leave me alone face ;)

Truccia Sneak Peak

2008-07-02T22:45:00.000-07:00

Uptown Girl ...

A couple weeks ago I had a super cool session with the super cool Miss Truccia. I got some really awesome shots that I will post soon! I love the above shot, there is just a cool funkiness to it that I'm freaking out about!

Thanks Tru for being a fabulous model !!!

South Lake Union Park

2008-06-30T22:52:00.000-07:00

I did a shoot a couple of weeks ago at Seattle's South Lake Union Park. In between the people shots I found these fun thing's to photograph! I love stuff like this ;)

She's back in the building!

2008-06-29T20:49:00.000-07:00

I'm back... Did you miss me? We had great time on our griswald family road trip! Chase did amazing, he is such a good boy, I am blessed! I have so much to catch up on and tons of pictures to sort through. I still have posts to do from shoots I did before I left then i'll share some vaca pic's.

I'll leave you with this little gem from our first stop in Portland...

Yeah Baby! You gotta love Oregon!

See that bruise on his left check? Ouch ... poor guy must have fell off that big ol' bike a time or two ;)

Out of the office!

2008-06-21T09:13:00.001-07:00

We are road tripping baby... Griswald style!!! Except replacing the station wagon with an Escalade.

I will try and put up a post if I can find some down time. If not I'll see you in a week! I'll have a ton of pictures ;) Audi 5000 G!

live inspired... Compendium!

2008-06-19T21:10:00.000-07:00

On the last day of my Bainbridge girls trip we dropped into Winslow before boarding the ferry, for what you say? Shopping of course!

We went into the kind of store I LOVE the most. The kind I could spend hours in, reading every single card, touching all the textured paper goods, drooling over the new embellishments, admiring the journals that I end up buying because they are so darn cute but then never write in. Ahh the stationary/paper goods store how I love thee so! I'm not sure how long we stayed in the store on this trip but i can tell you if i would have been by myself it would have been at least 45 minutes. There were many thing's i wanted to buy but I settled on only a postcard okay fine 5 post cards!!! I couldn't choose which one I liked best.

These are not ordinary postcard's they are inspiring "Wonderfuls because life is full of wonder" cards. Isn't that too cute? I tried to scan them so I could show you their awesomeness but they have UV coating so the scan is all pixelated... boo for bad scanners! So naturally I googled them so I could show you guys. Boy am I glad I did because I found my new favorite company.

Seattle based Compendium Inc has products that chicks like me go gaga over. Check out this 80 page book for mom's ...

Wouldn't you love to have one of these from your mom? Our better yet leave one for your child! They have a dad's one too! And they are only $9.95 a steal i think for something this cool.

I'm also in love with the She line I almost bought that journal but Cat talked me out of it! Boo on you cat! ;)

There are a ton more incredibly delicious goodies at Compendium I could go broke buying their products. If you are a paper goods nut like me or are just looking for something special or inspiring as a gift or even as a treat to yourself you have to check out their website.

Find something that inspires you today!

Wrap me up in your love!

2008-06-15T22:27:00.000-07:00

An assignment was given to me to capture something that "speaks love to you". I thought about it for a while and kept coming back to the idea of my blankets. Besides keeping me warm there is a greater meaning behind the blankets I have grow to love.

The bottom is one I currently use to sleep with, bring to the couch when I need warmth or am sick and most importantly use when me and my little guy snuggle up together.

The next one was given to me when I was little. It was hand made by a family member in Wyoming and shipped in a big box just for me. It is a pretty pink, light weight and perfect for summer when traditional blankets are too hot.

Third one up was made by my grandma and was gifted to me I believe on my 12th birthday. Being a 12 year old I must be honest and say I was totally bummed to receive a hand made afghan instead of something cool like, I don't know a snoopdogg cd! Over the years it sat in a closet not used very much, that is until I got older. As an adult I learned to value the importance of something made by the hand, made out of love with a special person in mind as the receiver. She had knit it just for me in colors she thought I'd like and every time I pull it out and wrap myself in it, it's like wrapping myself in the love that she is no longer here to show me herself.

And then we have my very special souvenir blanket that I bought when I was 16 in the Philippine mountains of Baguio. This is my take everywhere blanket, it has been on many a road trip, a few picnics and used many times to lay out in the sun on. This is one of my most treasured items, my blanket that came from across the world!

Next up is Chase's baby blanket! The blankie I brought him home in. The blankie I swaddled him in for months, laid on the floor for him to play on, the blankie that went with us anytime we left the house. Chase never had a special attachment to a blanket the way most other kids do but every time I see this blanket I am reminded of my precious little baby boy.

Finally on top we have Sydney's blanket. The 12 x 12 piece of polar fleece that the hospital wrapped her in. The small piece of fabric that was big enough to wrap my tiny baby girl in. This is the only blanket she would ever have and the only real object that was ever especially hers. I keep this next to my bed and when I feel that longing to have something of her near me I sleep with it close to my heart.

I have so many more blankets I love. All the special baby blankets my great grandma has sewn for every baby in our family, especially my white one with the little blue flowers on it. The big gray one with red ties my grandpa slept on. There are dozens more that fill my mind with happy memories.

On the outside blankets seem like mere pieces of fabric sewn together in multiple ways but in some blankets there is more meaning than can ever be explained. They represent a time or place, a special person, joy or sorrow, comfort, warmth and love!

What represents love to you?

Yes I Can.. Deliver one hell of a fist bump!

2008-06-11T07:14:00.000-07:00

Craig Lassig / EPA

Barack Obama made quite a stir during his presidential nomination acceptance speech by "fist bumping" his wife. Around these parts we call it knuckles or Dap but either way you go executing the fist bump can make you either look super cool or super lame. In Obama's case I vote Super Cool but that's just me ;)

Tastybooze came up with these awesome rules of the fist bump:

So in an effort to help you out, we here at TastyBooze have devised a simple set of rules to aid you in appropriate fist bumping.

1. If sports are involved, fist bumping is always acceptable.

2. If you are wearing a suit, you may only fist bump if you are drunk. Or if you have just wrapped part of your suit around your forehead.

3. You may not fist bump under any circumstances, in a hospital. Unless Rule #1 (or Rule #2) applies.

4. Do not fist bump someone else’s misfortune, even if it helps you. Just look down, furrow your brow, and nod sternly.

5. No fist bumping between the hours of 7am and 10am. And if you’re watching sports at this time, it’s probably soccer or NASCAR, and then you should really not be fist bumping. High fives will suffice for both.

6. Do not fist bump in a meeting. Even if you are drunk.

7. Do not fist bump your children. Unless you’re drunk, then it’s OK.

8. Girls can fist bump anytime they want. And yes, guys think it’s cute.

9. Do not refuse a fist bump. If you, as a bumpee, believe the bumper is violating a rule, speak to him afterwards. Refusing his bump is not going to help anything.

10. Do not fist bump yourself.

Do Work Son! Obama 2008

"America, this is our moment. This is our time. Our time to turn the page on the policies of the past. Our time to bring new energy and new ideas to the challenges we face. Our time to offer a new direction for the country we love.

The journey will be difficult. The road will be long. I face this challenge with profound humility, and knowledge of my own limitations. But I also face it with limitless faith in the capacity of the American people. Because if we are willing to work for it, and fight for it, and believe in it, then I am absolutely certain that generations from now, we will be able to look back and tell our children that this was the moment when we began to provide care for the sick and good jobs to the jobless; this was the moment when the rise of the oceans began to slow and our planet began to heal; this was the moment when we ended a war and secured our nation and restored our image as the last, best hope on earth. This was the moment—this was the time—when we came together to remake this great nation so that it may always reflect our very best selves and our highest ideals. Thank you, God bless you, and may God bless the United States of America. "

Need more fist bump info??? Who doesnt! For a history click here

David Beckham Jr ?

2008-06-10T21:45:00.000-07:00

More of cutie pie Dylan and his soccer ball!

Love the baby booty shot's ;)

Senior Pictures... Urban Style!

2008-06-09T21:25:00.000-07:00

Andrew had already taken his senior portraits earlier in the year by a different photographer. But they were too formal and did not reflect his personal style. So we had a little more fun and did something funky! I'm going to shoot some more of him soon so stay tuned for those =)

Sister Sister

2008-06-08T22:02:00.000-07:00

Dylan Sneak Peak!

2008-06-07T10:42:00.000-07:00

Knuckle's !!!

Bainbridge Island Getaway

2008-05-29T21:53:00.001-07:00

I'm back! I have been on and off sick for a week now I'm finally feeling better, I hope it stays that way. How was your memorial day weekend? Mine was great I got to stay at this place....

The Cedar Guest Cottage was a nice little place for our girl's mini retreat. Friday after work we caught the ferry over to Bainbridge Island for some much needed R&R. As bad as it sounds just being away from the kids for awhile was treat enough but it was also nice to be able to chillout and reflect in a place close to home but still far enough away to feel like a vacation.

The cottage was super cute, check out these exposed beams ...

I love the natural wood. It's nice to have the feel of a log type cabin but still have modern amenities! Saturday after breakfast we took a short hike down to the beach.

I was super stoked that the tide was way out because I got to go exploring! (squit and you can see the seattle skyline)

Of all the thousands of times I've been to the beach I've never seen live sand dollars before. It was so cool to find these little families of bright purple sand dollars of all sizes from big grandaddy ones to tiny little baby ones. I wanted to take A better picture to show the different sizes but their feelers things were moving and i didn't want to disrupt them ;)

I found this little friend and chased Cathy around with it. She's such a girlie girl!

Sunday we had to get home to the kiddos so after a short shopping trip in Winslow we boarded the M/V Puyallup back to the our beautiful city.

I had a great time, can't wait till our next girls getaway!

A Boy and his Retro Red Trike

2008-05-19T21:21:00.000-07:00

Saturday we had record high heat here in Seattle. All I can say is thank God for centralized air conditioning! I sat reading in the shade near the door so I could feel the cold air coming from out of the house, while Chase rode around and around the deck on his Red Trike.

Built Tough

2008-05-14T21:04:00.000-07:00

I was going through my lightroom library and decided to post a few more of the boys!

Friends!

Amari realizing how dirty his hands got from the tracks!

Mr. Serious (like his mom?)

I love it when his does this! So funny!

WOW... Jack Davis!

2008-05-12T23:04:00.000-07:00

Just got home from a evening seminar with Jack Davis. It was a jammed pack three hours full of some great photoshop tips and tricks! I kind of liked the shorter three hour set as oppose to the five hour bellies and babies and Captivated by light I went to earlier this year. The cheaper price didn't hurt either ;)

I felt like I got enough good information without sitting forever while my butt gets numb. Don't get me wrong I got great info out of the other two but this one just had a faster flow which I kind of dug. It helped having some lovely ladies to attend with, Sara Montgomery, Jenny Joy Heck, Dinea Norrell, Julie Watts and Julie's cool friend Laurie all were there to keep me company!

There were some awesome "mind bending" moments as Jack demo'd all the cool tricks and shortcuts you can take to enhance your images. Some were so easy I couldn't believe I hadn't figured that out before. His tips will really help me speed up my workflow and maybe make some "WOW" images of my own. He also briefly showed off some of the new feature's in Lightroom 2 that will be coming out soon. Looks really awesome I might just have to upgrade!

It's really fun learning photoshop even if there are certain elements I wouldn't use myself it's nice having the knowledge on how it's done. Especially when it comes to being able to recognize the processes others take in creating their final product. Looking at someones work and having an idea for how they #1 took the image but then how the achieved the final result through editing is a great way to learn.

I would definitely suggest attending this seminar with Jack if he comes to your area! I also here his books are pretty darn good, although I haven't had a chance to check them out myself. Can't wait till I can get some time to play around with the stuff I learned tonight!

Off to bed.. it's almost midnight!!!

A Mother's Love

2008-05-11T20:45:00.000-07:00

A mother's love is something

that no one can explain-

It is made of deep devotion and sacrifice and pain.

It is endless and unselfish and enduring,

come what may,

For nothing can destroy it

or take that love away!

It is patient and forgiving

when all others are forsaking it never fails or falters

even if the heart is breaking.

It believes beyond believing

when the world around condemns,

and it glows with all the beauty

of a rare and precious gem.

It is far beyond defining

it defies all explanation,

and it still remains a secret

like the mysteries of creation-

A many splendid miracle

man cannot understand

yet another wondrous evidence

of God's tender loving plan!

Helen Steiner Rice

Happy Mothers Day!!!

Heather + Ellery

2008-05-06T21:29:00.000-07:00

Our first day photo shoot in Sonoma was of this beautiful mommy Heather and her adorable little girl Ellery!

LOVE little baby feet!

I love her expression in this picture! She looks like the Gerber baby!

The thumb suck =)

Look at those HUGE eyes and chubby cheeks!

For fun I colorized one, not sure I like it too much but it's fun for a change.

We couldnt have asked for better models! Ellery did great during the whole session no fussing or crying or anything she was the perfect baby model!

Hosts with the Most!

2008-05-05T21:27:00.000-07:00

There are two reason's I decided to attend the Sonoma workshop instead of the one's up here in Seattle. First was that I liked the idea of it being an actual retreat as opposed to driving home each night after the festivities. I wanted to feel like I was getting away to my own little photography paradise. But I was more sold when I found out I would have the opportunity to learn from not just Me Ra and Brian but also Garrett Burdick and Rick Chapman. How could you not jump at the chance to learn from such a great group of photographers?

I feel truly blessed to have had a chance to interact with professionals of their caliber, in case you didn't know they are a pretty big deal! Nothing drove that home more that when we first met Garrett he let it slip that he and Rick had recently wrapped up a shoot with Justin Timberlake! I mean I'm no groupie but that's a pretty big star right there, not to mention the tons of others stars that these guys have captured! Oh did I mention they scout pottery barn houses and other places for shoots. What a rad job right? It's so cool that here are two totally amazing guys that work with big name people all the time and they are willing to chill with 7 newbie women photographers that are still trying to learn what the heck they are doing! Are you understanding how awesome that is?

Here is Garrett:

He is the sweetest man! At first he was pretty shy being around us crazy ladies but he quickly warmed up and became a huge help to all of us! I can not say enough nice things about Garrett, he is funny, patient, kind and just plain freaking awesome! I love his shyness and how he turns red when we compliment him. I love how he took special time with each one of us to teach us about everything from technical camera stuff to lighting to "foofing". He found the lovely place the workshop took place, the great restaurants we ate in and the beautiful models we were lucky to shoot. I am beyond grateful to have had the chance to meet him and get to know him!

As if Garrett weren't enough we also got to work with the his AMAZINGLY talented business partner Rick Chapman:

Here's Rick with his adorable son:

*This photo taken by Garrett*

Rick opened up his home to us as if we were all great old friends and let these stranger women roam around his home. But not only was his home open but so was his heart and mind. He shared I wealth of knowledge with us that I with forever be grateful for! It's hard to explain but there is this crazy peaceful vibe around rick that is at the same time calming as it is invigorating. And did I mention he is cool, I'm talking the coolest of the cool! This dude is freaking awesome! I feel so very lucky do have had the chance to learn from this great man!

Let me not forget the hilarious tag team Brian and Me Ra:

I think everyone knows how great these two are but just in case your not hip to them yet do not waist another minute go to their blog immediately and bask in the wonder that is this dynamic duo! Me Ra is this amazingly open kind women that inspires and gives to many mom's unbelievable support and a wealth of knowledge. Brian is her rock and an super nice, way hyper and often hilarious man. He's "actually" also a really great photographer as well ;)

Do you see how lucky I am?

Sonoma Workshop Report... Finally!!!

2008-05-04T23:22:00.000-07:00

Okay before I start I have to let out some frustration at blogger right now because I am not able to post! I've waited a week to find time to blog and now I can't even post! I'm writing this on Google Doc's in hopes that the error will fix itself soon enough for me to get something out tonight! ~ Yeah it finally worked!!!

Anyhoo on to the subject of this post... I'm home from beautiful Sonoma! Okay you got me I actually came home on Monday night but haven't had any computer time since I got home. Last week I was fortunate to attend Me Ra Koh's Photography Workshop down in gorgeous Sonoma California. This was not only my first time in Sonoma but my first trip I've ever taken solo. I have to admit I'm pretty proud of myself for taking this journey alone. Usually I would have needed a friend for support or just plain companionship but this time I embarked on a journey all by myself and it felt really good! I arrived at Oakland airport, got my rental car, hit the 880 north to wine country with my aviators on, the sun shining in my window and my ipod blasting. I caught a glimpse of myself in the rear view mirror and as corny as it sounds I truly felt like a independent women!

Lucky for me even though my travels were alone I was about to meet 7 amazing women that would fast become my great friends! I was so looking forward to this workshop first to get to work with Me Ra, her husband Brian and two other great photographers, Garrett Burdick and Rick Chapman . Also to get a better sense of what I'm doing with this camera I always find in my hands! But little did I know that the true joy was going to be spending time with and getting to know all the girls attending with me!

Here are a few group shots...

Whole Group + Brian

Sonoma Girls Album Cover

Doing the famous Brian pose!

And here are my new friends...

Wendy- Wendy is amazing! She is the type of person that instantly becomes your best friend!

Carrie- With an amazing eye for detail she didn't realize she had!

Michelle- Who thought that all her amazing pictures were "just luck", I think she learned that is just not true!
Dori- A lovely lady with the most gorgeous smile and contagious laugh!

Sharon- The funny animated one with tons of talent and FOUR beautiful kids!

Wendy T- The self proclaimed introvert with an inner beauty that radiates out of her!

Dana- My Canuck sister ;) she is so fun, awesome to hang out with and full of insight!

Special guest star Maggie- The best most patient baby in the entire world!

Notice something??? Perhaps a theme going on here???

We were all laughing and having a GREAT time all weekend! From our first dinner at the Red Grape to our farewell Monday from Rick's house in Stinson beach we were laughing, sharing and sometimes even crying together. Words really can't do justice to the experience we all shared together, it was a magically moment that I know I will never forget! I am so thankful for this experience and having met this amazing talented group of women.

There is so much more to say and pictures to show that I'm going to break up the posts with this being the first and a few more to follow so stay tuned for more of my sonoma adventure!

**All picture's in this post by Garrett Burdick**

I'm leaving on a jet plane...

2008-04-25T06:00:00.001-07:00

On my way to the airport off to sip wine, take pictures and RELAX! I have a massage booked at 2:00 in the "Plaza". Doesn't using the "Plaza"make everything sound so grand? "I'm having lunch at the plaza" hahah when I went to NY I was so jazzed to have lunch at the plaza just so I could say that. Unfortunately it was being remodeled into luxury apartment's so I wasn't able to join the cool club of people that lunch at the plaza. Anyhow I gotta get running plane leaves in an hour and a half... I'll make a toast for you my friend's that won't we sitting in gorgeous weather sampling Cabernet Sauvignon ;) See you on the flip side!

The Grass is always Greener

2008-04-20T23:41:00.000-07:00

I got this e-mail a little while ago and really enjoyed it...

Someone will always be prettier. Someone will always be smarter.
Some of their houses will be bigger. Some will drive a better car.
Their children will do better in school. And their husband will fix more things around the house.
We must realize we can't have it all,
So let it go, and love you and your circumstances. Think about it!
The prettiest woman in the world can have hell in her heart.
And the most highly favored woman on your job may be unable to have children. And the richest woman you know, she's got the car, the house, the clothes might be lonely.
We are taught 'If I have not Love, I am nothing.' So LOVE YOU! Love who you are! Look in the mirror in the morning and smile and say, I am too Blessed to be Stressed and too Anointed to be Disappointed!
Winners make things happen! Losers let things happen!
Be Blessed!!!

It's so true that we all struggle with envy and even jealously at things others may have that we don't. Weather it's possessions, beauty, talent or one of many other things. I always try to remind myself that even though someone may have something I desire I still need to be grateful for all the wonderful things I do have. Hey their might just be someone out there that thinks your pretty great as well and might wish she had some of the things you do!

On this same topic, Liah sent me an article by Jean Thompson that was printed in Allure titled the "Girl of my Dreams" I Love this article!!! I debated actually putting the whole essay up here, but it's too long so here are some pieces of it...
"I saw her again not long ago, while I was waiting for a flight at O'Hare. We were both standing in line for coffee. I was my usual haggard pre-flight self, dressed in athletic shoes, utilitarian black pants, and an oversize linen shirt, already wrinkled. A militant nonchecker of luggage, I was sweating under the bulky weight of my carry-ons.

The Girl I Always Wanted to Be wore a summery white blouse and skirt, cinched with a slim gold belt. She carried a ladylike straw clutch which matched her espadrilles. (My own handbag, selected for its storage capacity, looked and felt as if it were stuffed with rocks.) On her wrists were dainty bracelets; around her neck, some sparkly chains. Most telling of all, the Girl I Always Wanted to Be ordered her coffee and strolled off with it in an amused, leisurely fashion, as if travel were an adventure to be enjoyed, as if it were to be expected that you pulled your look together for the occasion, and that fretting over how to pack
miniaturized toiletries into TSA-approved containers was for lesser mortals.

Now, one vital characteristic of the Girl I Always Wanted to Be is that she is a stranger, momentarily glimpsed. For all I know, the girl in the airport arrived at her destination bereft of her luggage, stamping her well-shod foot in baggage claim, and calculating how long she could manage without buying new underwear. That's not the point.

There's a combination of appearance, attitude, and circumstances that, for a powerful, unwilled moment, makes us want to be someone else. It's different from ordinary envy of, say, catalog models or celebrities. Different also from that mainstay of advertising the pairing of products with desirable scenarios, i.e., if only I could be that happy, attractive person drinking Coke or driving a Lexus. And when it comes to the accomplishments of accomplished women, I'd like to think that I admire them without any dark complications of motive. But the Girl I Always Wanted to Be involves wistfulness, an awareness of our own insecurities, identity as it can be conveyed by style and, perhaps, a sense of possibilities."

"A second truth about TGIAWTB is that she changes over time, mutates along with our chronological age and the prevailing culture. Think about the phase, or phases, you went through when you ardently wished to be called by a different name. In second grade I determined that the most perfect, most mellifluous name in the world belonged to my classmate Lana Joy Jacobs, who took tap-dancing lessons. (Hi, Lana Joy! How did life turn out?) Later I wanted to be Cindy or Candy. (Think cheerleader. Think plaid.) Later still, coming of age in the 1960s, maybe Yasmina or Shenandoah.

In time I came to terms with my own noncommittal monosyllable, to which no nickname has ever adhered. Just as when we get older we tend to make peace with ourselves, inside and out, or else go for the big transformation-the sex-change operation or religious conversion. But the impulse to change, rearrange, or perfect stays with us, fueling entire industries. There's a balance between self-improvement and self-acceptance that we each have to find for ourselves."

I know that was still long but I just had to share this! How many times have you seen that "Girl I always wanted to be"? What was it about her that made you wish to be her? In what ways can you draw strength and love for ourselves by admiring TGIAWTB? I love thinking about things like this. I loved this article because it made me aware of my own feelings when I look at that girl I've always wanted to be and instead of feeling bad I'm not her it makes me appreciate myself even more. Sure I'd still Die to have that tiny waist and Hermes handbag but I'm just as happy in my own skin with my fake Prada from canal street! ;)

Amari + Chase Sneak Peak...

2008-04-13T20:13:00.000-07:00

I've been a busy girl this weekend!

Here's a little sneak peak of a shoot I did with Chase and my godson Amari.

Stay tuned ... more to come!!!

Call the Exterminator!!!

2008-04-10T22:38:00.000-07:00

Back when I was taking Chase's guitar pictures we noticed this little guy walking across the carpet.

And what did my little guy do???Run away crying? Jump in my lap and scream like a girl Eeewww spider? Nah not my tough guy, he ran into the kitchen and came back with this...

The Ultimate Spider Catcher!

Hahah where do they come up with these things? I was laughing so hard while still trying to catch on camera his excitement over his spider hunting expedition. Because I was laughing he decided to turn the ham on...

Beware little creepy crawlers Spider Hunter Chase is on the job!

** No spiders were harmed in the making of this photo shoot! =) **

"A Love story for your Life"

2008-04-09T20:45:00.000-07:00

Randy Pausch is one of my hero's! If you have not already heard of him or watched Randy's last lecture do so immediately! Inspirational is the least I can say about this man. I've watched his famous lecture, caught him on Oprah, ordered his book and am counting down to tonight's interview with Diane Sawyer. I am brought to tears almost every time I listen to him. Just knowing this great man will soon no longer be with us and that his children will soon lose their father breaks my heart to no end. The lesson's Randy teaches are one's that everyone must hear especially parents. Sure he may not be the coolest guy, sure he may not be the most eloquent speaker but his message is one of living your dreams, enabling the dreams of others, integrity and having fun! GREAT life lessons!

"The brick walls are not there to keep us out. The brick walls are there to give us a chance to show how badly we want something. Because the brick walls are there to stop the people who don’t want it badly enough."

You can watch Randy's video for yourself here.
His Blog

Back on the Block

2008-04-05T23:57:00.000-07:00

OMG flash back to 4th grade, I'm 10 years old and on hold with ticket master for what seem like hours. My mom said if I wanted to go I'd have to be the one to sit on hold, apparently she had better things to do with her time!

For what you say???

Only the original best boyband EVER! And ... wait for it ....... they are BACK!!! You heard right the New Kids are back! We'll have to wait and see if they're better than ever since the haven't sung in public yet but never the less I am excited. Hahaha!

Let me clarify though I was not one or those obsessed girls that scream and faint and buy everything band related. I bought the cd's and went to the concert and that was it! Ok wait maybe I did start a little fan club with my friends Aileen and Kelly, but we were cool! My friend Amanda had her whole room NKOTB even her comforter and pillows! They were BIG time with the elementary girl crowd. I liked Jordan and my favorite song was "If you go away girl"! Welcome back guys !!!

I have now officially cemented my dork status! ;)

Totally Tubular

2008-04-05T22:51:00.000-07:00

A couple of Saturday's ago my friend Liza & I took our boy's up to Snoqualmie pass to the tubing area. We had been planning this trip since December but anytime we where free to go the weather was lousy. Boy am I glad we waited because the conditions were perfect when we finally did make it up. We all had a ton of fun both tubing down the huge hill and also just running around planning in the snow. I was too chicken to bring my camera to the actual tube hill but I did get some good shots before and after the session.

Chase & My Godson Dennis

Dennis' Brother JJ

Dennis with his HUGE "snowball"

My personal favorite! My little snowbunny!

I hadn't been tubing since I was a little girl and we used to have to walk up the huge tubing hill. Now they have pulleys that bring you back up! That turned out to be awesome, I was a little worried about how we were going to get the little guys up the hill each time so the pulley was great. I think Chase actually enjoyed the leisurely ride up the hill better than the fast "scary" one down it.

After our session was over we played in the snow for an hour before chase was done. I changed his clothes and then we pulled up close to where the boys were playing. Here's a few of Chase in the car...

Posing for mommy

Watching out the window

The bossy control freak yelling orders out the window

The other two boys continued playing for at least another hour maybe two until the sun was almost completely gone and it got freezing. 40minutes later, one gas stop and two drive thru windows we were home. WE had soooo much fun the kids loved it can't wait till we go again!

What are your Cravings?

2008-04-02T20:54:00.000-07:00

I saw this at the gas station and made my brother take a picture with his phone. Hahaha he was embarrassed because I'm such a dork!

What are some of the yummy things you crave?

*** Come on guys! None of you have craving? How about when your PMSing or even when you were pregnant? I guess i'm the only little piggy***

Recap

2008-03-30T22:41:00.000-07:00

I'm still short on time I've been soooo busy this last week. I hope I can get caught up this coming week so far I'm only semi-busy so hopefully I'll have a little cool down/relax/computer time!

Tuesday I attended my first PUG meeting at Me Ra's house I was super excited about getting to meet new photographers and of course stoked to meet the ones I had heard of or only knew from the Internet. I was a little nervous but luckily there were a few people I had meet in person or have corresponded with before, seeing some familiar faces took the edge off. ;) On my way there I got a little lost but let me tell you I'm really glad I did because I got to see a few awesome neighborhoods I never knew existed. The meeting was great I learned some really good info from Dani, Me Ra and Brian's banker and I talked with some really cool people. I can't wait for the next one!

On Wednesday I had the pleasure of going to the Studio 36 "After Party" at Julie's studio. We had a great time chatting away about all types of photography stuff. But the real fun started when we got to play around with the studio lighting. I was especially excited about this since I have been wanting to learn more about lighting and which types of equipment I should buy. Julie is so great she gave us tons of tips and really gave me a better understanding of how to work in a studio environment. Thanks Julie! I hope we do it again soon!

Yesterday I went out with my friend Cathy for her birthday. (Happy Birthday Panchita!!!) We went to the Lakeside Rummage sale which was a bust, unless your skinny and looking for some cool vintage leather coats, they had TONS of those! I bought a really sweet vintage camera for $4 but other than that we went home empty handed. Because we are not the type of girls to go home without buying something, bad I know, we stopped at the University Book Store. I got a cool new portfolio and Cat got some butcher paper to make her patterns. I got home with just enough time for a load of laundry, a couple episodes of Sex and the city, a few inches of snow and a latte for dinner before I went to bed.

Today I went Downtown to the SAM for the Rome exhibit. Pieces from the Louvre that had never been seen in American are on display right now! The craftsmanship on those pieces are unbelievable and to be in the presence of all that history is truly amazing! If you are an art or even history lover you definitely have to check it out before it leaves. After the museum we walked through the market I LOVE Pike Place no matter how many times I go there I still appreciate the awesomeness of it =) After Cutters for lunch, gelato for dessert, and a short stop in Chinatown for some bamboo I came home to more laundry and a messy house that needed to be cleaned. Now I'm off to bed I have my 9-5 and then Bellies and Babies! Yeah!!!
Sweet Dreams!

Special Bunny Treats

2008-03-29T23:14:00.000-07:00

For Easter I made Chase some very special treats....

Bunny Pancakes

Bunny Ice Cream Cake

Complete with fluffy tail

Chase decided to leave the Easter bunny a treat as well...

And because the bunny enjoyed his treats so he left another special treat ....

Exhausted!

2008-03-27T20:41:00.000-07:00

What I wouldnt give for an 8th day or even a 28 hour day! Actually now that I think of it that's too much! I guess I just need a day off or at least more than five minutes on my home computer! I have had a super busy week and have so much to share but no time right now to share it! Check back soon to here about my easter, mountain trip, PUG meeting, night at Studio 36 and all the other crazy stuff keeping me busy! I'm off to bed before midnight for the first time in a week! TTYL =)

My Mr. Picasso Head

2008-03-21T23:17:00.000-07:00

I found this site Mr. Picasso Head and thought I'd share my creation.

It's kinda fun to make your own masterpiece if you have a little time to kill. It's also cool to cruise the gallery and see what other people have made!
Because it's a flash setup you can't right click to save your image. You can save it to their gallery but that doesn't help if your a weirdo like me who wants to blog it! You just have to screenshot it or take a picture of your monitor like I did ;)

The Know it All

2008-03-16T22:02:00.000-07:00

I am reading A.J. Jacobs book "One man's Humble Quest to Become the Smartest Person in the World". It is the funniest book, I have found myself laughing out loud many times! It's about Jacobs year long journey to read the entire Encyclopedia Britannica A-Z. That's "33,000 pages, 44 million words, 10 billion years of history, 1 obsessed man." The journey is hilarious and his insights and personal spin on things is delightfully entertaining, I highly recommend it!

Next I'm going to read "The Year of Living Biblically" I hope it's as good a read as the Know-It-All.

Here are A.J's top ten tips for getting into the Encyclopedia:

1. Get Beheaded

2. Explore the Arctic

3. Write Some Poems

4. Become a Botanist

5. Get your self Involved in Commedia dell'arte

6. Win the Nobel Peace Prize

7. Get Castrated (men only)

8. Design a Font

9. Become a mistress to a monarch (ladies only)

10. Become a Liturgical Vestment (garments worn by officials, clergy etc..)

My Little Rock Star!

2008-03-13T21:48:00.000-07:00

Seattle Radio Rocks

2008-03-12T22:58:00.000-07:00

The celebration continues... I just got home from yet another birthday dinner. So much for my healthy eating I had my first set back by stuffing my face with tortilla chips and then eating the yummy chocolate mouse I got after getting sung to and having to wear a HUGE sombrero! Tomorrow it's back on the health wagon!

I forgot to tell you about my other birthday well wishers. I got a birthday e-mail form Shelly Hart at Kube 93, a personal call from Maynard at Movin 92.5 and an invite from Roz at KACL 780AM asking me to meet her at Cafe Nervosa for a birthday latte! Okay that last part was a lie, and unless you watched Frasier you have no idea what I'm even talking about. The first two are real though! I know it's so cornball and funny but I thought it was pretty cool.

I'm a pretty big deal you know? ;)

The Return of Saturn

2008-03-11T21:10:00.000-07:00

In one of my birthday cards my fabulous friend Brynn wrote that I should have a wonderful year because Saturn has returned. At first I laughed because that is sooo brynn to know something like that but then I got to thinking. I've heard 28 is a pretty good age so maybe there is something to this Saturn thing? After a short Google search I came across this page Be My Astrologer and found this little ditty of information...

"Saturn Return is a word astrologers use to describe the coming of age or initiation into adulthood which takes place between 28 and 30 years old. At this time the planet Saturn has circled your chart and returns to the place where it was at the time of your birth. Invariably, this marks one of the most important times in your life, a time of endings and beginnings, a time to discover your authentic self and correct your course in life if it seems you're heading in the wrong direction. "

"The Saturn Return, which lasts about two years, is a time for introspection and self-evaluation. It is a time of taking responsibility and often a time for making serious choices. Saturn Return asks us to forsake so-so directions and have the courage to find the one that is most like us, the one we were intended for when we were born. It is a time to consider your unique individual needs, the contribution you want to make to the world, the resources that are important to you, inner and outer, and who will go with you on your journey."

Pretty Cool huh? And here I thought I was just getting wiser and maturing well, I guess I can thank Saturn! I gotta go now I have ALOT of self-evaluation to attend too.

Oh Saturn also returns between ages 58-60 so if I don't take advantage of the cycle this time around don't fret in 30 years I'll get another chance ;)

Hooray for 28!

2008-03-11T20:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I turned 28... Happy Birthday to me! I am really excited to be this age, I've always looked forward to being 28 I don't know why but even when I was little I thought it was a cool age!

I had a great weekend! Lot's of eating took place, It's a good thing I started my "healthy eating" today because I probably gained at least 5 pounds this weekend alone! I went out to dinner Friday night with some family members, than again on Saturday night with my friend cathy and then another family dinner on Sunday night with a big ole cake.

Yep Chris brought home a full sheet cake to feed 8 people! I asked him "babe why did you get such a big huge cake" He replied "Because that's how much I love you!" Once I got over the awe how sweet moment I said "hopefully you still feel that way when my ass gets huge from eating it". I did feel special with my happy birthday song and huge cake with only 18 candles because 28 might have set off the smoke alarm.

I was truly overwhelmed this year by all the cool gifts and wonderful cards I got from my fabulous friends and family! I scored big time it was like I was a little kid again. Gift cards galore, nice frames, a laser level so I hang them straight, a new sonicare, a hair cut certificate, my favorite expensive shampoo and a couple nice plants. While I loved all my gifts I really enjoyed the e-mails and the cards , I got some really great hallmark moments this year. I must have been a good girl this year because for some apparent reason people had some really nice things to say about me? I have AMAZING friends and an awesome family, I am so grateful!

It's great to be 28!

It's not you it's me!

2008-03-07T21:17:00.000-08:00

I had to make some cuts! I was getting way out of control with all my wonderful photographer links and it was just getting to be too much. I love all the photog's I had listed, I still do but it was time to downsize. Instead I left the ones that I think have the most inspiration to offer myself and other lookey loo's. I really like providing links to wonderful photographers, it seems like a find a new favorite every single day! So I will be adding them in post's vs linked in the right column.

Here are some I had listed

Julie Watts Julie takes cool funky unique photo's, I love how she captures personalities
Laurence Kim Crystal clear crisp image's with great color.
Tamalyn Lee AMAZING photo's I love her work with natural light
Juxtapose Whimsical, fun, romantic, unique what more could you want?
Sarah K Chen Young fresh and fun
Tony Yang Urban-Hip-Sexy GREAT boudoir
Engaged Studios Good engagement flic's love the slideshows

Happy Monday!

2008-03-03T19:11:00.000-08:00

Monday's usually suck but how could you hate a day that ended like this?

I'm sure you've heard we get a lot of rain up here in Seattle. That means we also get pretty rainbows! Today's took place during sunset so it had great color to it.

How was your weekend?

Mine was pretty uneventful, I started spring cleaning, is it too early for that? Are we in spring yet? Oh well I guess anytime is a good time to get rid of crap you no longer need. I did get a chance to grab some Red Mango which I've been craving for a few days, YUM! Other than that not much new to report, can't wait till Friday!

Pretty Girl Things!

2008-03-01T19:31:00.000-08:00

Look at what I found...

They are mini cake ornaments! Aren't they awesome? Camille Maddock from Pretty Girl Things makes these little darlings out of polymer clay. You can buy them pre made or get your own custom made one at her Etsy shop. Get a replica of your wedding cake or your friends, a birthday, anniversary, new baby or any special occasion . Her current listed prices range from $9 to $18 not a bad price at all for something so darn cute. I HEART this sooo much I hope by the time Chris and I get hitched she's still making these because I am so freaking getting one!

The Next Marky Mark?

2008-02-29T22:47:00.000-08:00

Now excepting applications for the funky bunch!

What does your password say about you?

2008-02-29T21:57:00.000-08:00

Today at work I had the lovely job of creating a database compiled of the information from companies that have made internet purchases on our site. To do this I had to log into the backside of our website and check out the account information. After about 10 minutes of copy and paste suckness I started to notice people's passwords. Let me tell you this was the only good part of my 4 hour grueling task. You would not believe what some people use as their passwords. A lot are simple number combinations, their name plus a number, a child or spouses name, a birthday. However it's the others that are pretty amusing.

Here are some of my favorites:

11223344
Popcorn
Password (that's genius!)
Beavis
Crabmaster
Loafers (huh??? that's weird)
MillerLite
CaptSushi
Craptastic (best password ever!!!)

Lesson learned you can find something amusing even in the most daunting of tasks!

"If You Want Loads of Friends, Giving Away Money is Not a Bad Idea"

2008-02-28T21:29:00.000-08:00

I have a confession to make... I'm really in love with the Geico gecko voice! I know right... =) Seriously though that accent really does it for me! What is it anyway? I read it was Australian but it's English right? I think it's English, it sounds similar to Pete's english slang on Green Street Hooligans. Which is a pretty good movie by the way if you can get passed Frodo trying to be a hard ass "football" (that's soccer for us americans) hooligan it's definitely worth checking out.

I thought maybe I just liked male accents in general but I could do without out hillbilly, western draw, the long islander you know the guy with huge muscles, a Caesar and spray tan eeww, even the supposedly sex Antonio banderas tongue isn't for me either. Okay forget it I just like the gecko oh and Boston accents I totally dig guys with Boston accents! So now you know my deep dark secret I have never told anyone before!

"They literally hand you a biscuit with bu'er and jam..." oh yeah baby!

On a side note I'm really craving Red Mango I think I'm going to go get some tomorrow Yum!
Also I changed some settings so anyone can comment now!!!

He has my attitude!

2008-02-25T21:55:00.000-08:00

Soul Sisters

2008-02-23T21:14:00.000-08:00

For awhile now I've been rolling over an idea for a blog post about "Forever Friends" which I will be writing soon. But first I wanted to share the awesome coincidence that one of my dear friends has been thinking the exact same thoughts as me. I received an e-mail yesterday from a childhood friend of mine Liah.

This is a picture I took of Liah back in 1999 on our road trip to a concert at the Gorge.

I was happily surprised to receive an e-mail from her as it's been about two years since we last spoke. I loved Liah's e-mail and I hope she won't mind but I want to share a paragraph with you.

"Yesterday I discovered Mandy Moore's new website called UPumpItUp.com at http://www.kraftbrands.com/upumpitup/. Its a new site that seeks to inspire women to challenge themselves by finding balance in their lives and taking risks. The site is a little cheesy but it got me thinking about a new way to challenge myself. I thought about setting a goal to exercise more, eat healthier, or study more, but then it dawned on me these goals are good but they are all about wanting more. So I asked myself the question, what do I already have? This little voice in my head said "the most loving and talented women friends." The only problem, however, is they probably don't even know I feel this way about them or even how much I really care for them because I don't tell them. In fact, I don't even make time to keep in touch with them most of the time. In other words, it became clear yesterday what my challenge should be: I need to be a better friend."

I can't tell you how many times I have thought this exact same thing! I'm sure a lot of us women struggle with wanting to be a better friend and needing to show our friends how much they mean to us. I thank Liah for not only reminding me to be a better friend but for the friendship we share together.

I truly believe Liah and I's relationship is one of the most special of connections, one of the soul! We have never been the super close type of friends and we go many many years without any contact. Yet we are always connected! We are imprinted on each other in a beautiful way, and when we see each other it's as no time has passed at all. We are two old "soul sisters"... two forever friends!

Urban Unveiled

2008-02-22T22:38:00.000-08:00

Thursday night I attended the Urban Unveiled event at Benaroya Hall. I received two free tickets from Clare at Clare Marie Photography. Upon arriving I was pleasantly surprised, the cocktail party/trade show was truly sophisticated and stylish as advertised. I always get a little nervous when it comes to bridal events, they are usually a lot of hype but end up disappointing. This one was anything but disappointing, if you are a bride or just enjoy all things wedding this event is thee event to attend. I was impressed by pretty much everything from the elegant paper goods provided by Little Q Designs, the classy set up's by Rented elegance, even the music from NiteLite Entertainment was right on point. My friend Cathy and I had a good time checking out the vendor booths (which were not trying to pressure sell you like other bridal shows), sampling food from some great local catering companies (Tom Douglas and Wolfgang Puck just to name a few!) and sipping champagne.

My favorite vendors were:

Clara French where you can get a custom made cake stand made in custom colors to match any event or taste. Don't wanna buy? You can rent too!

Sugar Rush bakeries mini cupcakes... I had two, one mocha & one lemon YUM!!!

Lumiere videographers who can shoot in super 8 which I Love Love Love! I stopped to talk with Jaro, he was super nice and I got the impression that working with him and his team would be a wonderful experience. Check out their demo's!

The main event was the Luly Yang Couture Fashion Show. Luly showed three collections which ranged from classic styles to cute cocktail style dresses to some real concept style Tiffany blue dresses and even a couple sliver sparkly numbers. Overall I enjoyed the show I did feel that some of the items didn't look very finished especially for someone with Luly's notoriety. A few of the garments were wrinkled and more than a few had crooked or very noticeable seams. And I know fashion, I mean I've watched every single episode of Project Runway! ;) Picture me judging every garment just as if I was Micheal or Nina! Hahaha

The night ended with the give away raffle of some fabulous prizes, which I didn't win but congrats to those who did because there was some great ones! All in all I had a great time even despite being harassed by a hottie policeman and feeling like I had a hangover from the mix of mini cupcakes and champagne it was good times!

Event Programs and Vendor Catalog

Taking with my Cybershot.. not too shabby!

Total Eclipse

2008-02-20T20:50:00.000-08:00

Here is my picture of tonights Lunar Eclipse. This is around 8:00 pm PST, I was lucky enough to get it before it got too bright most of my pictures after this one just look like a bright light in the sky with no definition like I caught here. If I would have been more prepared and set up my tripod I probably would have got a better shot but oh well!

This will be the last total lunar eclipse until 2010.

Hope you got to see it!

You can see mine as well as other eclipse pic's on newsday.com

Happy Birthday Chase!

2008-02-18T20:10:00.000-08:00

My baby is THREE years old! Time goes by so quickly!

Blowing out the candle

Excited about his new spiderman jammies

Fun with cupcake rings!

L-O-V-E Contest

2008-02-16T11:24:00.000-08:00

I have been super busy getting ready for Chase's 3rd birthday party tomorrow! I finally got a second to sit down and thought I would do a quick post. I had a great Valentines day with my two guys, I will post more on that later. Right now I want to focus on Me Ra's new photo contest L-O-V-E and encourage everyone to not only check out this months contest but Me Ra's blog in general is awesome. I was the winner of the first contest and won a great prize. I havent entered any of the other contests but I really enjoy voting on them, and love to see people win such great prizes. So go over to Me Ra's and vote on the next winner! They will win Adobe Lightroom, super cool software which i'm still trying to learn how to use ;)
Okay back to party preperations!

Here's my winning photo of Chase and Calmerin at Bob's Cornfeild and me with my prizes!

Happy Valentines Day

2008-02-14T08:41:00.000-08:00

Falling in love is amazing but even more amazing is being able to fall in love with the same person over and over again. As horribly cliche' as it sounds relationships have many seasons. This is especially true the longer your with that special someone! Some seasons are fruitful and full of slendor and others are dry feel baren and sometimes hopeless.

After ten years together Chris and I have been through many harvests and many droughts yet we always come out together, sometimes barely ;) but never the less intact!

This last year has been the best of all our years together and hopefully we will continue on the path of growth, support and love. It's hard not to love a man that does things like this...

A single rose left in my car as a surprise in the morning on my way to work. Great way to start the day!

Or my other favorite... xtra hot non fat vanilla latte waiting on my nightstand when I wake up!

But even better than those awesome surprises is everday hearing i'm beautiful and the constant reminders of how much he loves me!
A special thank you to my "Nie Nie", Happy Valentines Day to you my friend my love! You are a wonderful dad, a hard worker and a faithful companion. I love you!

Baby Face

2008-02-13T20:07:00.000-08:00

One of my most favorite beauty tips is using a exfoliating glove like this one from The Body Shop. You can buy them super cheap at Target or your local drug store. I like the body shop ones with the loops on the end, since I keep mine in the shower having them hang dry keeps them for getting all icky. These gloves are excellent not only for your body but are gentle enough to use on your face!

I have pretty sensitive skin but have no irritation at all from the gloves. For my face I lather mine up with Clinque facial bar soap or Burts Bee's Complexion soap and it works wonders especially in the winter months when my face tends to dry up! Even during a break out my blemish's are not aggravated by them. I also love these with body wash used on my legs right before I shave. They uncover the hairs that are still under the skin and allow for a closer shave and smoother legs. These babies should definitely be added to your beauty regiment!

Happy Birthday Princess!

2008-02-12T19:59:00.000-08:00

Meet Calmerin she is 4 years old today!

She loves to be the Princess!

Happy Birthday Princess!

Show Me The Money Baby!

2008-02-01T21:03:00.000-08:00

Here I am posing with the check I won from 92.5 in their "Show me the money" contest, $100 Buck-O-Roo's baby! I've never won anything on the radio before but this time I had a feeling I was going to win. The station had been running promos for week's so when the first day came I was on it! I e-mailed and text'd my name in and listened patiently for them to call me. The first four hours went by and no "Amanda Mays you have 9 minutes and 25 seconds to call in" but I was not discouraged yet because "up next is afternoon diva Mason". Now for those of you not in the know "Mason" is a talented gal with many a alias my favorite being "Mrs. Strawberry" from the totally addicting best blog in the universe Weddingbee!

For many moons I was obsessed with all things weddingbee. I would keep the screen up all day and refresh every few hours to see if there was any new posts, sick I know but so much fun! Right before Mason called the winning name I thought how cool would it be if Mrs. Strawberry called my name? I mean after all I was there when she planned her wedding for Christ sake! I was there when her cat pee'd all over her favor boxes, I was there to weight in on Poof vs. Sweep (I picked sweep, she went with poof), I was there to comment on her too cool picture's with the pigs on parade and it was I that was there to envy her mashed potato martini bar!

It was destiny that I was to be her first winner, we are so totally BFF's. When I called in .5 seconds later she answered the phone and I was prepared to scream "oh my god your Mrs Strawberry I won a $100 bucks from Mrs Strawberry" but I chickened out and instead said "oh it's very exciting" (in a non excited way) and then proclaimed "show me the money baby!" After being on hold for several minute's while they edited my lame victory screech I heard myself on the radio sounding like an udder spaz! But hey sounding like a tard for all of Seattle to hear is an okay price to pay for a nice check in the mail two weeks later! Thanks Susan!

Happy Birthday LEGO!

2008-01-30T20:37:00.000-08:00

To celebrate the 50th Birthday of Lego here are some facts I got from the Lego site:

The LEGO history began in 1932 in Denmark, when Ole Kirk Christansen founded a small factory for wooden toys.

Christansen came up with the name: LEGO – a fusion of the Danish words “LEg” and “GOdt” (“play well”).

15 years later Christiansen discovered plastic as the ideal material for toy production, and bought the first injection moulding machine in Denmark.

In 1949 he developed the LEGO brick prototype and in 1958 the Lego was sold!

Today’s LEGO bricks still fit bricks from 1958.

Production of LEGO bricks with Acrylonitrile Butadine Styrene (ABS) began in 1963. This matte finish plastic is extremely hard, has a scratch and bite-resistant surface, and is ideal for keeping the bricks connected. The ABS compound is not delivered in a liquid form, but rather as granules, which are heated to 232° C until they melt. Injection moulding machines weighing up to 150 tons then press the hot and “gooey” plastic mass into LEGO brick shapes. The shapes dry and harden and, voilà – you have the famous LEGO brick!
There are 2,400 different LEGO brick shapes

LEGO bricks in boxes that are not sold are melted again and turned into new bricks, in accordance with waste prevention and environmental responsibility.

The LEGO Group with its headquarters in Billund, Denmark, is the fifth largest toy manufacturer in the world in terms of sales.

Thank you Lego for 50 years of fun! I know Chase for one is very thankful to Mr Christiansen for his brilliant idea!

Nice Surprise

2008-01-29T19:10:00.000-08:00

Flower delivery at work!

A wonderful surprise but even more wonderful

is the auntie that sent me them!

My Mom, Wonderful Auntie & I

The Soul, Like Nature, Has Seasons, Too

2008-01-28T19:19:00.000-08:00

Poem from Sydney's funeral by Helen Steiner Rice:

When you feel cast down and despondently sad
And you long to be happy and carefree and glad,
Do you ask yourself as I often do,

Why must there be days that are cheerless and blue?
Why is the song silenced in a heart that was gay?
And then I ask God what makes life this way.
His explanation makes everything clear-

The soul has it’s seasons the same as the year.
Man too must pass through life’s autumn of death
And have his heart frozen by winter’s cold breath,
But spring always comes with new life and birth,
Followed by summer to warm the soft earth…

And oh what a comfort to know there are reasons
That souls like nature, must too have their seasons-
Bounteous seasons and barren ones, too,

Times for rejoicing and times to be blue…

For with nothing but sameness how dull life would be,
For only life’s challenge can set the soul free…
It’s a mixture of both bitter and sweet
To season our lives and make them complete.

Reflection

2008-01-28T18:56:00.000-08:00

Today is my due date. If everything had went as planned I would be giving birth to a beautiful baby girl today. Instead I visited the cemetery where my angel baby was laid to rest in September. It's hard to describe how I feel about the whole situation. Naturally there are countless ifs, buts, maybes and whys but like most things you just have to except that this is life and things don't always go the way you plan.

Miscarriage is something I never thought would happen to me, especially after already having one healthy baby. It is by far the hardest thing I have ever gone through and has changed the way I feel about so many things. I am thankful for having had her even for a sort time and I thank god every day for all the many blessings he has giving me. Going through this has made me appreciate my life and the people in my life so much more than I did before. Because of her my eyes are open to a better world, despite the pain of losing her.

Sunday Ritual #2

2008-01-27T20:38:00.000-08:00

Every Sunday I make sure to disinfect our toothbrushes. This is especially important for Chase's as it can often touch some pretty nasty surfaces when I'm not looking. Like me finding him brushing his stuffed animals teeth or running it along the wall as he comes out of the bathroom!

I totally got freaked out a few years ago by a dateline special that tested a bathroom and found out the the toothbrush had equal to if not more germs and virus's then your toilet! Yeah gross right? The thing we put in our mouths twice a day can be a breeding ground for all sort's of icky things.

A simple Google search brought up a few solutions for sanitizing your brushes. One was to soak them in a bleach solution... umm no thanks! Another was to throw them in your dishwasher, which I did a few times until I got creaped out buy the idea of my brush among the dirty dishes. So I switched to soaking them in hydrogen peroxide, then they came out with Aquafresh tablets which I used for awhile as well. Finally last year I bought the VIOlight Sanitizer which I love.

The Violight claims to kill 99% of germs by subjecting the tooth brush head to a ten minute UV shower. Now I haven't found any real data that says UV light actually works to disinfect your brushes but hey it sounds right doesn't it? Whether it actually does what it claims or not at least it I get the peace of mind of thinking they are clean and germ free.

Double Edged Sword

2008-01-26T21:56:00.000-08:00

On most occasions I pride myself as being a compassionate person but I sometimes can't help but think it's also a detriment.

The last half of 2007 was a horrible year for me as well as some of my close friends. We experienced the loss of an old spirit as well as a new one, dealt with the mistrust of spouses and friends, had health problems as well as financial downfalls. I was so excited to start a new year, a new beginning, my light at the end of the tunnel. Unfortunately the first couple weeks of 08 have been just as bad. I am now convinced that the universe may be conspiring against me.

I am sorely torn between wanting so badly to feel sorry for myself but at the same time realizing that it could be much worse. How do you balance feeling so blessed for all you have and still getting to act like a whiny brat? I would like nothing more than to lock myself in my room and cry, obviously this isn't practical but why am i having such a hard time feeling sorry for myself?

My breaking point happened when Chase shattered the screen on my iPhone by bludgeoning it with his wiggles light stick. I wanted to go ballistic I wanted to scream and shout and throw a hissy fit but I was just too upset to do anything. But even while in my shock and dismay I couldn't stop thinking about how I'm crying over a $400 phone while their are people out there with REAL problems. Sure my issue is a loss and sucks horribly but it's not the worse thing in the world.

I wish for once I could just let my emotions feel sorry for myself without thinking of others. Can I have my moment of udder breakdown without feeling bad for it?

My Broken Iphone....

The ships have finally sailed!

2008-01-24T20:42:00.000-08:00

It's been a looong couple of months at my "day job".
I work for the Buying Network which is a marine buying/procurement company. Sounds super exciting right? Hehehe The short of it is we supply supplies of all kinds to fishing vessels, processing vessel, processing plant's, the Alaska ferry boats and various other's.

I am the Office Manager Extraordinaire! Fancy title that basically means I handle lots and lots of paperwork. I wish I would have taken a picture of my desk during our busy time, it was so covered you could only see a little square of wood under the sea of papers.

Late November into early January is SUPER busy for us because all the ships are gearing up for Pollock season in Alaska. We are so busy processing orders, receiving and shipping good's and just flat running around like chickens with our heads cut off. I am relieved it's over although I do secretly miss the busy days once all the ships are gone and I'm left with nothing but boring Internet orders. At least I'll have more time for the fun stuff!

Here's a picture of the Intrepid Explorer, one of the boat's be buy for. It's next to one of the fleet that sunk last March.

I'm an addict...

2007-12-18T20:57:00.000-08:00

I am totally addicted to the Open Photo Contest. This is a photo contest put on by Open Source Photo ( a totally awesome forum by David Jay) where you get to vote on your favorite picture out of a series or four images. Photographers can register and upload their images to be in one of the contests. Currently there are 6 running categories which included: Stellar Brides, Traveling, Engaging, Prepared, Family Time & OPC Beta Contest. Four images are displayed at a time and you vote for your favorite of that series then voila! a new set comes then an new one and a new one and well you can see how this can get addicting. The winning photographer's get some nice prizes and are featured on the right colum of the page. Thier are some amazing photo's sometimes it's hard to choose which one you like best. Try it out for yourself but be warned you may be sitting in front or your monitor for a loong time ;)

C is for cookie ... and Cancer!

2007-12-06T18:41:00.000-08:00

Cookies for Kids' Cancer

"Tastes as good as it feels"

The Band of Parents Bound by Hope is a wonderful website started by parents with children that have been diagnosed with neuroblastoma. Parents that are devoted to providing awareness and funding for theirs and other children stricken by this rare and deadly pediatric cancer. Once a year they sell cookies for a limited time in hopes of raising money for this horrible disease. Chocolate Chip Oatmeal, Citrus Shortbread and Snickerdoodle are sold by the dozen for $30. Admittedly a little pricey but when considering the money goes to help save the lives of children it's more that worth it to pick up a dozen or two.

These mom's and volunteer's are hoping to bake and sell more than 8,000 cookies. What would you do if you were told your child had a cancer for which there was no known cure? Surprisingly pediatric cancer is horribly underfunded and certain rare strains get little to no research support. Only 30% of children diagnosed with neuroblastoma survive. Funding is crucial in providing hope for these families! Buy some cookies to enjoy or donate now. Cookies are only available from December 2nd through the 16th so order yours now!

I've been Compromised!

2007-12-04T21:51:00.000-08:00

This Weekend I became a victim of Debit Card Fraud! Crazy Huh? The low down dirty criminals actually produced a dummy copy of my card and used it at an ATM to withdraw money from my account.

First off it's hard to believe that it's actually possible to do this but then to think that there are people with morals so low as to actually carry it out is mind boggling. I was lucky to have caught it pretty early, however they did get 3 transactions threw before I noticed though so that's pretty scary. The lady I spoke with in the fraud department at Bank of America said that this is a HUGE increasing problem in Washington state and that 85% of the cases of debit card reproduction are obtained through gas stations. Crooks are able to put a little chip in the card reader and get your card info and pin! Gas stations are a good target because many people use their cards there and the card readers are less monitor than say in store swipers. I was also told by BOA that you should always run your debit card as a "credit" rather than a debit if you can. It comes out of your account the same way but the crook only gets access to your card number and not your pin. Once they get your pin they can get actual cash and that is much harder to trace and prosecute if caught.

So my lesson learned is don't use your pin unless you absolutely have to, you never know who can gain access to it. Also be vigilant is checking your account's and know what's going on with your money! You never think it's going to happen to you but take it from me it can!

The picture above was obtained from Kids Bank.com it is the funniest little site geared towards teaching little ones about finances.

Letter to my Boss

2007-11-29T22:04:00.000-08:00

Clay,

I would like a new fancy desk chair. I believe this cost is justified because 95% of my day is spent in my chair. This is equal to 7hrs a day, 280 hrs a week, 1120 hours a month and 53760 hours a year of sitting on my buttocks. A new chair would be beneficial by providing more support to both my buttocks as well as my back. This in turn would lead to a happier more productive employee!

For your convenience I have researched fancy chairs and found a great one at Office Depot Business.

The Quantum Mesh Mid-Back Chair has many great features including:

Height-/width-adjustable armrests with unique Gel-padded armrests offer optimum comfort – Comfort is always a plus! Additionally helps remove shoulder and neck strain.

1-touch seat-height adjustment for proper posture – proper posture is a must for maintaining optimal back and neck comfort, especially since I would like to refrain from getting a hump on my upper back, which unfortunately runs in my family.

Tilt controls for optimal positioning & Adjustable lumbar– Again it's all about comfort, support and maintaining proper posture to keep me chipper and agile all day long.

Designed for intensive use- Ideal for busy professionals who spend 5+ hours each day in their chairs.

Waterfall seat cushion helps promote circulation- GREAT I have very poor circulation and could use all the help I can get!

Made from a minimum of 50% post consumer recycled materials – Awesome, why not help the environment!

And Finally it's Backed by the manufacturer's 5-year limited warranty – ensuring I'll have many happy years in my comfy fancy chair.

ALL these great features for the reasonable cost of just $279.99 minus our 15% discount. The cost is more than justified considering how much sit time I actually do.

I hope you will consider my proposal for a new fancy chair and honor my request. It is only fair considering everyone else is the office has said fancy chair.

Thank you,
Amanda

Proposal Approved.....

Disco Chase

2007-11-27T22:25:00.001-08:00

Star in Your Own JibJab! It's Free!

Negativity = Less Creativity

2007-11-27T21:13:00.000-08:00

Do you ever feel like your creativity has been drained, no matter how hard you try to think up something you just get stalled? I guess it would be equivalent to writers block but on a more extreme level.

My week of negativeness started last Monday when my pregnancy test showed negative. It's funny because each time I've taking a test it's come up positive, I guess I just figured anytime I took one it would be as such. But nope not this time definitely not prego, which became even more evident two days later when I got my period.

Along with every girls favorite monthly friend came a huge mental drain which is very disappointed considering a had a four day weekend in which my awesome skills ;) would have normally been in play all weekend. Instead I laid around, took a nap, chiseled old faux leather off some trunks I want to recover, stood in a 35 min checkout line to buy two items and wasted away in a thoughtless state. No blogging, no scrap-booking, no picture taking or editing, no output at all!

Ladies is this a normal pms/period type symptom? I guess I should know considering I'm a girl but I went about three years without mine so I can't remember if this is normal or not. It's kind of like when your in labor and you think to yourself "how could anyone do this more than once" but than after a year or so with your lovely bundle of joy you forget how painful it was and go for it again. Selective memory! One of the great blessing in life, the ability to forget the pain and negative things. Maybe I just forgot that for a week each month I become a cranky, tired, creative less mess!

Anyway on a positive note I got my external hard drive and was able to free up some space on my computer. It's running a little better but i still have a lot of work to do on it. Maybe I'll go get some more RAM or something . I'm going to need it as I've got some really cool programs loaded the pass couple days. One of which is CS3, man I've got ALOT of learning to do on that thing! I also got Lightroom which so far seems to be really cool but once again I've got some learning to do. I also came across some promising plug in's and fun picture app's. I'll have to share those another time.

My new baby (camera) and lenses should be here tomorrow! I'm soooo excited! I think it's just what I need to get back on track!