Through A Photographer's Eyes

Butterflies in Time Photography

Danelle is pretty much one of my fave photogs in the blogosphere. Love the details, composition and gorgeous b&w! {Misty}

Congratulations on being chosen as this week's #1 photo. Grab your button! You will be in the running to win a fabulous prize at the end of the month.

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Well, it's time for you to submit your entries! Be sure to grab the button below to include on your post.

1. Photo must be taken this week.(Sat - Fri)

2. Only one entry per person.

3. "Shoot. Edit. Submit." button or a link back to this contest must be on your post in order for it to qualify.

4. Link only to your blog post not your main blog url.

(If you submit a photo you are granting us permission to copy and paste it onto our blogs if you win.)

BTW, my co-host Kim at Mom Tried It is awesome! Go visit her and see why.

SHOOT. EDIT. SUBMIT. People's Choice Winner!

2012-03-01T00:00:00.002-08:00

With 76.52% of the votes...

Congratulations, Diane! Your photo was voted Favorite Photo of the Month of February! Your photo will be featured on the side bar of mine and Kim's blogs the entire month of March as a free ad spot for your blog. Plus you have won ALL 3 of the camera creatures, two of which are shown below from Camera Creatures. Kim will be coordinating with you and Diane soon so you can claim your prize. Congratulations on the much deserved win!

If you would like to grab a button for bragging rights, you will find it below.

Coming Fall 2012

2012-02-25T09:00:00.000-08:00

Yep yep yep! You read that right. Baby girl is going to be a big sister! Seems like it's one big pregnant party in blog land right now so if you're not pregnant yet, feel free to join in on the festivities anytime. :)

P.S. These pictures were taken at high noon with an uncooperative toddler. I must say I am pleased with how they turned out despite the obstacles. :)

Due Date: October 15, 2012

What caught me by surprise: How quickly I am showing this time. When they say you show earlier with your second, they weren't kidding. 7 weeks in and I already can't fit into two of my fave pairs of jeans.

Baby's size: A blueberry

Planned pregnancy?: Most definitely

How long did it take?: Two months. The hubs has reminded me many times how blessed I am. It only took two months to get pregnant with both of my children. (Wow that feels weird to say: "both of my children")

Side note: I took a pregnancy test 2 days before I was scheduled to start my period and got a negative. Had what I thought was a period (abnormal for implantation) and a week and a half later took another pregnancy test just to quiet my nagging disappointment. I was pleasantly surprised with two lines!

Things I am looking forward to: My growing belly and my first appointment.

SHOOT. EDIT. SUBMIT. People's Choice

2012-02-25T00:00:00.000-08:00

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About Camera Creatures: I developed a serious interest in photography when I had my first baby. Then there were three in total (each 15 months apart), and it became nearly impossible to get them to sit still, let alone look at the camera on command. My shoots consisted of my jumping up from behind the camera with a hand puppet and yelling any variety of high-pitched noises interspersed with loud “peekaboos.” Sure it worked, but it was a legistical nightmare. I also found my friends’ children were not quite as attentive to my antics.
The search for solutions led me to find a variety of hand crafted lens props that I knew I too could make at home. I created some of the animals my children loved and I joined the ranks and opened a small shop on the internet. After being contacted by a couple of reputable camera shops wanting to sell Camera Creatures, I decided to develop a professionally made stuffed animal that fits comfortably on all interchangeable lenses.
Thus was born Camera Creatures, LLC.

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She is giving the winner ALL 3 of the camera creatures! She is a firm believer that getting the choice of which one to select helps open up kids and get them in the right mood for a photo shoot. Her site only has images up of the dog and the owl, but they just got a ladybug that she will be sending to the winner, as well. So, sound the alarm and go gather all your friends, fans and families to come vote for you! These are amazing prizes that you most certainly will want to claim as your own. If you are not in the running but still wish to have own one of these adorable camera creatures, visit the Camera Creatures website to get some of your own! You can also find Camera Creatures on Facebook and Twitter.

Voting closes at midnight on Tuesday. Winner will be announced on Thursday.

White Magnolia Photography

Butterflies in Time

Tranquility....& Turmoil

SHOOT. EDIT. SUBMIT.

2012-02-24T00:00:00.000-08:00

The winners this week are....Drum roll please....

I love the contrast of the colors against the cold, harsh, snowy backdrop. The varying levels of the lanterns make for a very beautiful and interesting composition. {Kim}

Scattered Horizons

I love how this photo captures the wintery chill yet still looks so serene. Love the muted tones. {Misty}

The subtlety of this shot is beautiful. It is so soft and the crop is absolutely magnificent. {Kim}

A Moment In Time

Not only do I love the creativity behind the edit but the lighting and bokeh are perfect! {Misty}

Congratulations, winners! Grab your button!

And this week's #1 winner is:

Living Outside the Stacks

Um, what can I say about this? The depth of field is spot on. Every bit of that water lily is in focus while the background bokeh compliments the colors and textures beautifully. {Kim}

Congratulations on being chosen as this week's #1 photo. Grab your button! You will be in the running to win a fabulous prize at the end of the month.

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Well, it's time for you to submit your entries! Be sure to grab the button below to include on your post.

1. Photo must be taken this week.(Sat - Fri)

2. Only one entry per person.

3. "Shoot. Edit. Submit." button or a link back to this contest must be on your post in order for it to qualify.

4. Link only to your blog post not your main blog url.

(If you submit a photo you are granting us permission to copy and paste it onto our blogs if you win.)

Have I mentioned how much I love my co-host Kim at Mom Tried It? Go visit her. I promise you will love her too!

King of the Jungle

2012-02-23T17:23:00.000-08:00

What a magnificent creature! It took some patience waiting for this guy to turn his head my way. When he finally did, it felt like he was eyeing me up for an afternoon snack. *shiver*

What's Up Wednesday!

2012-02-22T00:00:00.000-08:00

If you are like me, you stumble across inspiring photog bloggers from time to time by chance through other bloggers, linkups, comments, etc. Well, I thought I would try to make it easier for you by grouping everyone in one place. Instead of opening this linkup to all bloggers, I am only asking for blogs that are geared toward photography to link up below. Just link up your blog's url below and start sending a "What's Up" shout out to your neighbors! That's it! Linky will be open on Wednesday morning through Thursday evening so get your blog linked up. Be sure to come back to meet new photogs!

It's not required but feel free to grab my button for others to find their way to the linkup as well.

Scavenger Hunt Sunday

2012-02-19T22:06:00.000-08:00

I, of course waited till this afternoon to get all my shots in again. When will I ever quit procrastinating?

{Love}

{Plastic}

{Duplicated}

Anything that has been copied has been duplicated. :)

{Trending}

Since I had already changed out of church clothes into my comfy clothes I threw my scarf around my cutesy niece and had her pose for me. These scarves are definitely trending right now.

{Paper}

A rolled up newspaper.

Hope you all had a fab Sunday!

Weekly High/Low

2012-02-18T00:00:00.000-08:00

What a great week! I've really enjoyed this new habit of sharing highs and lows with the hubs this week. I so appreciate everyone's encouragement in allowing me just to share my heart. To sum up this week, here are my high/lows:

High - Rain! It rained this week and we are always in need of some good rain here in SoCal. It was glorious!

Low - Neck pain. I got rear-ended a couple of weeks ago and didn't realize it at the time but I've been having some new neck pain that started within a couple days after the accident so though I'm not 100% sure that's what it's from, that's the only thing I can think of that could cause on-going discomfort like this.

High - Spending family time together at the zoo. Always makes me happy.

Low - Accidentally putting non-charged batteries into my camera for our zoo trip. My camera died after only a few shots. Ah well. We go all the time. :)

High - Cold weather. We don't really get a real winter here so I just love it when it's cold enough to wear a coat and scarf! I so much prefer winter to summer. I just don't enjoy being hot and it makes me so happy to bundle up in my cute coats and scarfs.

So there's just a few things about my week. I would love to hear about yours! You don't have to list a certain number of highs or lows, just whatever comes to mind. I love getting to know my readers better so feel free to leave a comment and tell me your high/low this week. I certainly hope you had more highs than lows for sure, but we all know that's not always the case.

Hope you all have a fabulous weekend!

SHOOT. EDIT. SUBMIT.

2012-02-17T00:00:00.000-08:00

So many awesome shots this week again. You peeps amaze me! Check out our incredible winners!

Serendipity is Sweet

Unbelievable colors she so amazingly captured! I'm in awe. {Misty}

Little Adventures

I love the composition of this shot, not to mention the soft, delicate tones of the flower. Beautiful. {Kim}

Chic Homeschool Mama

Gorgeous lighting and great composition. {Misty}

The creativity of this shot is great. This is a difficult shot to get done right. My hat is off to you. Nicely done. {Kim}

Congratulations, winners! Grab your button!

And this week's #1 winner is:

Tranquility....& Turmoil

I was totally blown away by this shot. It's kind of Ansel Adams-y. Such gorgeous details, composition and creative idea changing it to b&w. {Misty}

Congratulations on being chosen as this week's #1 photo. Grab your button! You will be in the running to win a fabulous prize at the end of the month.

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Well, it's time for you to submit your entries! Be sure to grab the button below to include on your post.

1. Photo must be taken this week.(Sat - Fri)

2. Only one entry per person.

3. "Shoot. Edit. Submit." button or a link back to this contest must be on your post in order for it to qualify.

4. Link only to your blog post not your main blog url.

(If you submit a photo you are granting us permission to copy and paste it onto our blogs if you win.)

Have I mentioned how much I love my co-host Kim at Mom Tried It? Go visit her. I promise you will love her too!

High/Low

2012-02-15T11:33:00.000-08:00

I wrote a post earlier this week and am ashamed to say that I deleted it just because I didn't know how popular of a post it would be. Then I read this post by Ashley at After Nine to Five and it was a good reminder that I need to blog about what I want to blog about and not what I think people want me to blog about. I just need to be real.

So...I've decided to write another post along the same lines.

I saw a movie a while ago where the family would sit around the table and discuss their high/low of the day. What a great way to encourage open communication in your family. The hubs and I tried it and it made me feel more connected to him after being apart for an entire day. I felt like with just a couple of sentences we had really allowed ourselves to share, in full honesty, what our day was like.

The nice thing about sharing both the highs and the lows is that it forces me to always find the positive while at the same time being honest on my blog that life isn't always dandy. So, I've had a few high/lows this week and wanted to share them with you.

High: Coming home from the gym two different days this week and being greeted with a clean kitchen and breakfast made for me courtesy of the hubs.

Low: Trying to overcome some disappointing news.

High: When my toddler when off by herself with no encouraging whatsoever and ~~scribbled~~ wrote me a note in her adorable way, ~~crinkled it up in a ball~~ folded it in her toddler way and brought it to me with the biggest smile on her face and said, "For Mommy!" Talk about melting a mama's heart.

Low: Hearing of the passing of an old friend

(The note my baby girl wrote me)

As you go about your week, take mental notes of the high/lows of your week and come back this weekend and share them with me. If anyone is interested in sharing their week with me, I'll set up a linkup if you like on Saturday so we can all get to know each other a little better and share in each others highs and lows.

Enjoy the rest of your week, my friends!

What's Up Wednesday!

2012-02-15T00:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day

2012-02-14T09:00:00.000-08:00

Linking to The Paper Mama

Scavenger Hunt Sunday

2012-02-12T21:16:00.000-08:00

Ok, so get this. I was trying so hard to take a nap this afternoon but my mind was busy working overtime trying to remember what the Scavenger Hunt Sunday prompts were and how I was going to interpret them that I couldn't sleep. I finally just had to get up and start taking pictures. lol

{Gold}

I don't have very much gold in my house because a) I am not a queen and b) I'm not big on the color gold...fortunately I had an arrangement on my wall that had some gold in it, so voila!

{Facial Feature}

I can't tell you how unbelievably hard it is to get a toddler to stand still longer than 2 seconds to get their photo, but success!

{Fabric}

Love my $5 bag. I use it all the time!

{Shadow}

I decided to interpret this in a different way (although they each do have shadows). These two are always "shadowing" each other. Like how I did that? :)

{Spicy}

Rather than take this photo again I decided to use an old one because it's the perfect interpretation of this prompt.

Hope you all had a fab Sunday!

Sunday: Focus on the Savior (with Jana Marek)

2012-02-12T00:00:00.000-08:00

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I'm just an average girl--wife to an amazing man, mommy to three little ones, and a nurse currently taking some time off to be with the previously mentioned little ones. I love the life God has given me. I blog over at Words, Musings, and Notes

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"Peace Like a River"

Life is crazy, wonderful, awful, and everything in between. With all the drama, it's easy to forget that God is in control and that He offers us peace in the midst of all the chaos. Recently, the Lord has been reminding me over and over of Psalm 73. It's worth taking a few minutes to read this chapter. I'll just give a brief summary here. The Psalmist saw how all the wicked people around him seemed to be prospering while he had nothing but trouble even though he was doing right. The more he thought about that, the more discouraged he became. After awhile, the Psalmist went to the Lord. It was then that God reminded him about the end of those who will not follow the Lord. He was reminded that he needed to stay close to the Lord so that he could keep a proper perspective on life. I need that reminder every day because it is too easy to forget to "focus on the Savior." My pastor recently shared this quote in his sermon: "What you forget, you can't appreciate. What you don't appreciate, you won't value. You will be unwilling to devote your life to something you do not value." The Lord Jesus Christ has done so much for me that I want to serve Him. To that end, I've been working to keep the Lord in my thoughts through out the day. Recently, I've started jotting verses down to keep by my kitchen sink so that when I am doing dishes or washing my hands, I can read over them. I listen to music that focuses my mind back to Jesus and everything He's done for me. It's a journey--following the Lord. My prayer is that the Lord will help me learn to love Him more every day so that I can say with the Psalmist: "My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever."--Psalm 73:26

To Brighten Your Day...

2012-02-11T22:03:00.000-08:00

It's just perfection here in SoCal. Sending some of our sunshine out to all of my blogging buddies.

Ten on Ten

2012-02-10T21:06:00.000-08:00

I finally remembered to participate in 10 on 10 this month! I had to set an alarm in my phone to remind me. :) Basically, on the 10th of every month, you take a picture every hour for 10 hours to record your day. It's fun!

{Hour 1}

When I went to go get baby girl up this morning, she had arranged her stuffed animals nice and neat like this.

{Hour 2}

The hubs was home this morning so I was able to steal some quiet time away and get some Bible reading in. I'm using my handy dandy through-the-Bible-in-a-year chart.

{Hour 3}

It's Friday which mean story time at the library!

{Hour 4}

The library has an adjoining park where we like to hang out for a while after story time. Baby girl has even made some friends of which two of them brought snacks specifically for her today. How sweet!

{Hour 5}

Lunch time!

{Hour 6}

Baby girl went down for a nap, so it was time to catch up on this week's Revenge episode.

{Hour7}

The bathroom was in desperate need of cleaning so I figured it would be best to get it done while baby girl was still sleeping.

{Hour 8}

Look who's up enjoying her juice - bed head and all.

{Hour 9}

Amazingly gorgeous day today (79 degrees inside my apartment) so baby girl and I went out to burn off some energy and get some exercise.

{Hour 10}

Daddy had to work tonight so baby girl and I decided to treat ourselves to dinner out. My little dinner date was more interested in what was going on around us...typical toddler :)

SHOOT. EDIT. SUBMIT.

2012-02-10T00:00:00.000-08:00

Another great week. I love that we are starting to keep a steady high count of participants. There are so many link up contests out there that Kim and I really appreciate you taking the time to link up with us. Check out our incredible winners!

Awesomeville

This photo belongs on the wall. The depth of field is perfect. The black and white conversion makes it really pop. Beautifully done! {Kim}

Jenny Rain Photography

I love this crisp clean landscape. So much clarity in the entire shot capturing beautiful colors and details. {Misty}

A Country Girl's Rambling

Look at how dreamy this shot is. It looks like a scene from a movie. I love the softness of it. {Kim}

Pieces of Contentment

Yowza! Would you check out the details of the reflections in those droplets not to mention the details of the droplets themselves. Blew me away. {Misty}

Congratulations, winners! Grab your button!

And this week's #1 winner is:

Butterflies in Time

Wow. Just wow. The vibrant colors are truly amazing. The clarity is unbelievable. I love, love, love this shot. {Kim}

Congratulations on being chosen as this week's #1 photo. Grab your button! You will be in the running to win a fabulous prize at the end of the month.

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Well, it's time for you to submit your entries! Be sure to grab the button below to include on your post.

1. Photo must be taken this week.(Sat - Fri)

2. Only one entry per person.

3. "Shoot. Edit. Submit." button or a link back to this contest must be on your post in order for it to qualify.

4. Link only to your blog post not your main blog url.

(If you submit a photo you are granting us permission to copy and paste it onto our blogs if you win.)

Have I mentioned how much I love my co-host Kim at Mom Tried It? Go visit her. I promise you will love her too!

What's Up Wednesday!

2012-02-08T00:00:00.000-08:00

Potty Training or Lack Thereof

2012-02-07T18:58:00.000-08:00

Right now my google search bar reads "What to do if your child is scared to sit on the potty".

I know that this blog is is supposed to be used for photography purposes, hence the title, but I don't feel like starting a whole new blog just to have a mommy vent so I will do it here.

I'm a first time mommy so I have never done this potty training thing before. My child has been 2 for for almost 3 months now. When she was 18 months and 22ish months she peed and pooped on the potty a couple of times. It was a big hooplah and she knew it was a grand thing to go on the potty.

I've bought her potty books, potty movies, and yes, even stooped so low as to let her see other toddlers sit on the potty in youtube videos. Yes, parents actually post those. When she didn't want to walk at 14 months it only took her one time seeing a toddler smaller than herself walking around and she started walking that day. I thought maybe the same would work for the potty.

She's been going through phases where I can get her to sit on the potty fully clothed while I use the restroom. I could even get her to sit on it right before bath time with no diaper whatsoever. But now she is completely petrified to sit on it at all. She understands that pee pee goes on the potty and she will even tell me that. She will say "no no pee pee panties! Pee pee Potty!" Developmentally she shows all the signs of being ready to go, but she just won't sit on it.

The other day she saw my SIL putting panties on her cousin (who is 3 months older than her) and since then she wants panties. Today while we were at the store she mentioned it again so I let her pick out a pack. This afternoon as soon as she woke up from her nap. She said "Pee pee potty! Panties!" I asked her if she wanted to go pee pee on the potty and she said yes. Of course I knew she wouldn't and the second we walked in the bathroom she wanted nothing to do with the potty. She just wanted her panties. So I let her put on her panties explaining to her not to get her panties wet. That she needed to pee pee on the potty. We even helped her doll and stuffed animal go pee pee on the potty (I squirted water in the potty when she wasn't looking) and she had fun emptying their "pee pee" in the big potty, wiping them and flushing the toilet while we clapped and cheered and high-fived.

She kept saying "no no pee pee! Potty!" seemingly understanding what I was telling her. Then it happened - she peed in her panties and it freaked her out. She immediately started panicking and crying. I told her it was okay and calmed her down. She of course still didn't want to sit on the potty. Now I'm afraid I have really scarred her. I took her panties off of her and we went in and wiped and flushed the toilet. Then she asked for a "diapuh change" so I put a diaper on her.

I've been reading online and some people say to put away the potty for a few weeks and try again later so that is what I have done. The potty is out of sight now.

I'm not mad at her by any means. I just feel very frustrated that I'm not even remotely going about this the right way. She will tell me all the correct words like she understands what pee pee on the potty is all about but she is petrified of that potty. I've tried buying a new potty seat and everything and she wants nothing to do with it. I have tried not even mentioning going pee pee on the potty to her but she brings it up all the time so I'm not sure which way to take the conversation when she brings it up. She will just keep saying "pee pee potty" and then when I confirm it she says "don't want it" referring to the potty.

I'm sure you moms know how discouraging it can get. She's an extremely smart little girl. Blows me away all the time. But this is one hurtle she is resisting.

Just needed to get that off my chest...

And of course this post needs a picture, so here's a cell phone pic of her being a "may man" at playgroup today.

If Moms Only Worked 8 Hours...

2012-02-06T22:23:00.000-08:00

It's after 10:00 p.m. and I just finished folding laundry and as I sit here staring at my husband's pile of work clothes that need to be ironed for the week, I started thinking about a conversation I had with a preacher over the weekend.

For about a year and a half he was Mr. Mom to his young 5 year old before he married his new wife. He said that he developed a whole new appreciation for moms during that time. He said that men come home after a long day of work totally tired and ready to relax, but moms don't just "get off work" at the end of an eight hour day.

It got me to thinking...what if moms only worked 8 hours. I started to compile a mental list of all the things that would go unfinished after that 8 hour time period and I thought it would be amusing to hear what you moms would say about it.

So, funny or serious, finish this sentence in the comments below and maybe later on in the week I will put together a post with your answers.

"If moms only worked 8 hours..."

SoCal Blogger Meetup

2012-02-06T13:09:00.000-08:00

I had such a wonderful weekend! Being a mom, an opportunity to get out and enjoy time with other ladies is wonderful. Enjoying time with 60+ bloggers is downright awesome! My dear blogging buddy, Stephanie from Mrs. Stephanie T, who was also one of the incredible hosts who put all this together, tweeted me a while back telling me about the blogger meetup. I wasn't able to attend the first one but was thrilled to be able to attend this one. Hospitable Roppongi in La Jolla was the vendor chosen to host the event. I'm not a sushi fan myself, but I was way impressed with the presentation of the food and the excellent customer service provided by their staff.

The ladies set up a little corner where we could take photos using a polaroid frame. This is just a taste of how cool our hostesses are.

Three of our animated hostesses. Love these ladies!

Stephanie Tammy Kai

60+ bloggers attended and get this, there was even a waiting list! I was so happy I registered when I did!

We played games...

(Above photo courtesy of Mandey)

A cute little valentines theme candy table was set up for our enjoyment.

I actually won prizes! Earrings were courtesy of Moorea Seal Jewelry.

Dove Chocolates were courtesy of Independent Dove Chocolate Discoveries Chocolate Chocolatier, Allison Almond. (949-278-3896 or allisonalmond@gmail.com)

Some cool note cards from Orange and Park...

and cupcake in a jar from Stay Calm Cupcake Shop...

then we were even sent home with an awesome swag bag with tons of coupons and treats from a long list of sponsors.

Fab job, ladies! Can't wait for the next one!

What's Your Story? - Ep. 5

2012-02-06T00:00:00.000-08:00

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I met David Spurgeon about 10 years ago actually, so he's no stranger to me, but his story is worth sharing. He and his wife our dear friends of my family and while visiting with them this weekend I suggested he share his story on my blog. He whole-heartedly agreed to let me share his incredible story for my next "What's Your Story?" episode.

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David Spurgeon before Christ...

It was still dark outside at 6:00 a.m., October 30, 1990, when a large number of men armed with M-16 rifles quietly and cautiously surrounded my house. I was suddenly awakened by the sound of loud and repeated smashing against a house. I jumped out of bed and ran to the window to see what was causing the noise. As I opened the curtains, I saw that there were armed men everywhere, and a number of them had their weapons pointed at me. They shouted to me, "Freeze; do not move; keep your hands in the air; this is the Police!" This was the beginning of a series of events that would literally change my life from that of a biker and criminal to that of a Christian.

I was born in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee, in 1953. My father moved north to seek work, settling eventually in a farming community outside Toledo, Ohio. Dad worked hard, from forty to eighty hours a week, and mom cared for things at home. We went to church every week, and I was active in youth fellowships, however, the plan of salvation was never explained to me. When I was sixteen I was glad to get my driver's license and break out of the country and see the "bright lights" of the city. Then the rebellion in my life really began to show. I began drinking beer for that numbing effect, that "buzz" that took away the cares of the world. I argued frequently with my dad about my hair length and about my lack of desire for working a regular job. I was very rebellious and irresponsible.

In 1971 I joined the U.S. Army in attempt to prove myself. I was a light weapons specialist and then I went to airborne school, jumping out of perfectly good airplanes to prove I was tough. I partied and hung out with the "cool" crowd, drinking beer and smoking pot, thinking I was having a good time and enjoying the "buzz." After being honorably discharged from the Army in August of 1974, I traveled around the country for six months.

Then I returned to Ohio to settle down, and in February, 1975 one of my greatest dreams came true - I became the proud owner of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. I became obsessed with learning about Harleys and began working in motorcycle shops and dealerships. One morning in April, 1975, after partying and drinking, I left a bar stone cold drunk and headed home on my Harley. I was going about 85 mph, when I hit something in the road and I laid the bike down, totaling the bike, but receiving no injuries. One of my friends allowed me to use his bike shop to repair my bike. I learned to "wrench" by rebuilding the bike and earned a reputation as a custom builder.

Although I was a loner, I hung out with other bikers and we drank, fought and rode our Harleys. In October, 1975, after much persuasion from my friends, I joined my first motorcycle club. It was a small local club based on brotherhood. In 1978 I met some members of a national club and after hanging out with them and proving I was "rotten" enough, I was accepted as a member.

There were many dark sides to the lifestyle of a biker, including many funerals. The death of one of my best friends is a prime example. Very early one morning, one of my friends and I left a bar with two girls for a joyride in my Camaro, with my best friend following on his bike. When we stopped at a light to let the girls out he took the lead with the bike. We lost sight of him as he entered the alley behind my house. Rounding the corner, we saw the bike wrecked in the alley and my friend crumpled against a fence, seemingly having lost control of the bike. After we rushed to his side and realized that he wasn't breathing, I put my arm underneath his body to straighten him out in order to do C.P.R. When I removed my arm it was glistening in the dim light of the street lamp, covered with blood. He had been gunned down by a rival gang. I would been the first one into the alley had we not stopped at the light . Those bullets were meant for me! Other "natural causes" of death (by our standards) were shootings or stabbings, motorcycle crashes, and overdoses of alcohol and/or drugs.

After nine years of this lifestyle I had become a national officer in the club. I was in my mid-thirties and had risen to the point where I had anything I wanted: gold, Harleys, cars, vans, a motorhome, Corvettes. Everything was free. By 1990 I was very dissatisfied with my life, but did not know any other lifestyle or how to change mine. To evade reality, I drank and got high more often. It was a lifestyle in which few grew old anyway, and many of my friends had died or were serving time. Whiskey and cocaine became my friends. We called cocaine "the devil's dandruff." The hopelessness of a life of sin made fighting and drinking a daily occurrence.

Then on that morning in Dayton, Ohio, as I stood at my bedroom window with my hands in the air, I realized that the smashing sound that had awakened me was the sound of a battering ram removing my front door from the hinges. About fifteen police officers from the FBI, ATF, DEA rushed into my house. The whole alphabet was there! Wearing helmets, body armour, and carrying M-16 rifles, they ran up my stairs crouched behind giant shields. I was immediately handcuffed and led downstairs while the officers tore my house apart. They found guns everywhere, including a sub-machine gun and a box containing cocaine. I was arrested and held without bond, facing thirty mandatory years for the machine gun, five mandatory years for the other guns, and two years for the cocaine. What started out as "fun" turned out to have a hefty price.

One day in my cell, I observed another man, who was from a similar background, reading a Bible. He invited me to attend a church service on November 4th conducted by two men from Charity Baptist Church. During this service I heard preaching from the Bible about a place called Hell. I thought I was a fearless man, but I'm telling you - it scared me! When they told me that Hell was a real place of torment, and that I could read about it for myself in the Bible, I did not like the message, but I did appreciate the truth. As a street-wise hustler and con-artist in my own right, I was not about to be flim-flammed by a couple of religious guys, but something about the message they gave me that day caused me to return to another church service held by them on November 11th. I had Bell's palsy (total paralysis of the right side of my face) and my right eye did not focus very well, so I requested a large print Bible. I received the Bible and began to read it with passion, longing for the peace that could be found within.

Not many days later, my attorney presented me with a deal. The U.S. Attorney was willing to drop the automatic weapon charge because I was a non-felon, if I would plead guilty to the five year mandatory
gun charge and the two year drug charge. Although I was still being held without bond, I now faced seven years instead of thirty-seven, which gave me some hope of making a new start when I got out of prison.

I longed for peace in my soul and continued to read the Bible. I was reading my Bible one morning and had a small radio playing when the time and date came over the air - 5:00 a.m., November 30, 1990. Tears filled my eyes as I recalled that it had been ten years ago to the day when my best friend had been gunned down in the alley behind my house. My influence had caused him to leave his job and family to join the motorcycle club. He was dead and in Hell because he had followed me. With many tears and trembling hands, I asked Jesus Christ to come into my heart and take control of my life. I surrendered completely to Him and He saved me. A feeling came over me that morning that has never left. Jesus Christ gave me the peace I had longed for so badly. I was still in jail without bond and still going to prison, but as of that moment, I was free. I was free from the bonds of sin that had held me so tightly for so many years. With more peace than I had ever had in my life, I wrote a letter to my parents telling them of my conversion. Tom Gresham (from Charity Baptist Church) came to visit with me. He gave me verses to read and helped set up a study program for me to learn the Bible. The following week I was given a third bond hearing. My attorney told me that I didn't have a chance, but somehow I knew I did. Mr. Gresham had told me that the people of the church were praying for me, and although I could not understand the fact that all of these people I had never met were praying for me, I knew something was different now. Against all odds, the judge granted me bond on December 21, 1990. Federal Marshals told my attorney that I was the first person in the history of that Federal territory to make bond after being "no-bonded" twice. I give all the glory to the Lord.

I went to church on December 23, 1990, to thank the people for praying for me, and was received with such kindness and love that I kept going back. On January 6, 1991, I was baptized as a public declaration of my faith.

When my new sentence date arrived on November 22, 1991, I was as prepared as possible to be sent away to a federal penitentiary for five to seven years. I was very thankful for everything the Lord had done for me. He had given me a new family in Christ, and most important of all, He had saved my soul form going to Hell. In the U.S. District Court, before the Honorable Walter H. Rice, with approximately seventy members of Charity Baptist Church present, I stood to answer for my past life. I was a new man, but the old man's crimes still had to be answered for. Judge Rice stated that he had received almost one hundred letters and that he knew me from the probation report. He stated, "You do not look like the same man that appeared in front of me one year ago," and he asked me to explain what had happened to me on the inside. That gave me the opportunity to testify of salvation through Jesus Christ and of the changes that Christ had made in me. The Bible Says in II Corinthians 5:17, "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." After acknowledging that the change in my life was extraordinary and substantially atypical that the people who dealt with and drafted the sentencing guidelines could not have possibly contemplated it, Judge Rice separated the two charges and sentenced me to five years of probation for the drug charge, with six months' house arrest and two hundred hours of community service per year. This type of sentencing procedure had never before been seen in the United States 6th District. Again, all the glory belongs to the Lord.

I am thankful for all who prayed for me, and I thank the Lord Jesus Christ for giving me a second chance. Many people in the lifestyle I chose died in their sin without salvation. I was extremely fortunate that someone came and brought me the gospel of Jesus Christ. They gave me the Bible and I learned that, "...all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). I learned that famous verse, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life" (John 3:16). God sent his Son so that I might live. I found out "that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures" (I Cor. 15:34). I read, "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine hart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved" (Romans 10:9). Then I read verse 13 of Romans chapter ten, "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." I believed and called upon the Lord and He saved me! Do not risk waiting as I did. I had no guarantee that I would live long enough to repent. Neither do you. If you are lost, will please accept the Lord Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? You will never regret it. - David Charles Spurgeon

Copied from He lived life in the fast lane - until... with permission from David C. Spurgeon.

If you would like to read more of David Spurgeon's story or know someone who would, he has just written a book called Bikin' and Brotherhood: My Journey. I just got a copy of it myself tonight and am looking forward to reading it. What an incredible testimony about the grace of God!

Meet David Spurgeon today:

Before Christ: After Christ:

Sunday: Focus on the Savior (with Traci Little)

2012-02-05T00:00:00.000-08:00

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I'm a curly-headed dreamer who loves my Savior, adores my best friend called Hubby, and my three children!

I never knew how much I would love being at home full time with my kids, while caring for our home! What a privilege and high calling.

I love to blog, do crafts, take pictures, cook, decorate cakes, and make my home cozy and inviting!

It is my desire to glorify God through encouraging and edifying other women. My prayer is that from reading this blog you will be lifted up and it will motivate you to love God, your spouse, and kids that much more!

Traci blogs over at Ordinary Inspirations.

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LIFE will snatch your remote and push fast forward, if you don't make a point to slow down. It will whiz right past you before you have time to regret the days, turned into years, turned into a lifetime.

AS an autumn breeze blows crisp leaves away, so does time with its memories of yesterday.

SO pay attention, and soak in each moment that God gives you,

before the sun sets on your yesterdays... and you wish you had a chance to do LIFE over.

OH TASTE AND SEE THAT THE LORD IS GOOD,
BLESSED IS THE MAN THAT TRUSTETH IN HIM.

Psalm 34:8

Being Myself

2012-02-03T19:29:00.000-08:00

Do you ever wonder if who you are is really who you are or is it just a conglomeration of a bunch of people you wish you could be like?

I struggle with this a lot. I come across to people very confident, out going and somewhat intimidating. In a way I think it's just a way of putting up a wall so people don't see the real me.

I find myself as I surf the blogosphere often comparing myself to my other bloggy gals. I see those who are artistic and confident in who they are as an artist, as a crafty mama, as a baker, etc. and they don't seem to question who they are or what their style is.

Over the years my photography style has changed a million times, because I will see another photographer's style that I like and want to duplicate it. I see those who can create their own notecards and sell them by the dozens and I think, why can't I do something like that? I see ladies whose homes are decorated with things that they have created or ideas off of pinterest that they were able to duplicate and I feel like the most creatively-challenged individual on the planet. I read blogs where women have such a way with words that it sucks you into their post making you feel like you are there in that moment with them.

I often think, maybe I should do more posts on being a mom. Maybe I should do more tutorial posts. Those ladies get asked to guest post all the time. Maybe I should write more about my family. Maybe I should start posting recipes or crafty how-to's like how to make a bedspread out of curtains and leftover tree skirt from last years Christmas tree.

I'm not at all hating on those who do that. I think it's awesome to be that creative, but it's just not me. As much as I try to tap into a creative side of myself, it's just not there. I'm pretty plane Jane.

You know what's funny is as I write this post, I know that there are those that will take the time to read it and leave sincere comments, but if it was me coming across a post this long, I'd skim through it to see if anything peaked my interest and then click on to the next blog, because I am just not one to sit and read long blog posts. I am usually just looking for pictures that wow me or an easy how-to edit.

I read a post a couple of weeks ago by a blogger who finally came to the realization that they no longer wanted to try to be a professional photographer because it took all the joy out of photography for them. That post really hit home for me and I haven't stopped thinking about it since I read it. I've struggled for a while now to get a photography business up and running. I have talked to other successful photogs trying to get tips on how to get my business to grow. I honestly don't know what the problem is. Do I just lack the passion? Do I lack the confidence in myself that I know what I am doing? Are my motives wrong? To be honest, I really don't know the answer to those questions. I'm still trying to search deep within myself and asking the Lord to give me clarity.

For now though, I have stopped pursuing a career in full time photography. I have that faint doubt though wondering if some day I may regret giving it up. When I think of giving it up all together, I then feel like I am left with nothing. No passion. No drive.

Yes, I have my husband. I have my baby girl. But I think every woman wants something that gives her an identity. Not just so-and-so's mom or so-and-so's wife. Something that is just mine. All mine. That I thrive at. That I excel in. That I am successful at.

At 30 years old I still don't have it figured out and I wonder if I ever will. I just need to hang a sign around my neck that says "Under Construction" and just strive to be more and more like Christ and not like everyone else. In eternity that's all that will matter anyway...

SHOOT. EDIT. SUBMIT.

2012-02-03T00:00:00.000-08:00

Wowza! You all really stepped up your game this week. I had so many tabs open in my browser that were my favorites, so having to narrow them down was slightly torturous. Kim and I both wanted the winning photo as our pick, but since it's my week to pick the overall winner I got to claim it. (hee hee!) Check out our incredible winners!

June Makes Six

I just melt into the days of summer when I look at this picture. Doesn't it look like something straight out of a catalog? Gorgeous colors. Gorgeous selective focus. Love! {Misty}

Butterflies in Time

I love HDR photography. While I am not certain this is an HDR shot, it definitely has the post processing feel of one. The color and light in all range of the tones is stunning. The scene is quite picturesque. {Kim}

Cranium Bolts

I love how crisp and colorful this photo is. Every single detail of this flower is in focus making it an incredible photo. {Misty}

White Magnolia Photography

This shot is so crisp and clear. The colors are bright and I can almost feel the warm sunshine on my back as I view it. Took me right there. {Kim}

Congratulations, winners! Grab your button!

And this week's #1 winner is:

My jaw is just hanging open. I'm having trouble finding the words to even begin to describe how awed I am by this shot. Every single detail down to the tiny splash of the water is so crisp. The reflection is stunning! I don't think I could ever come close to capturing the gorgeousness that is this photo. Well done! {Misty}

Congratulations on being chosen as this week's #1 photo. Grab your button! You will be in the running to win a fabulous prize at the end of the month.

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Well, it's time for you to submit your entries! Be sure to grab the button below to include on your post.

1. Photo must be taken this week.(Sat - Fri)

2. Only one entry per person.

3. "Shoot. Edit. Submit." button or a link back to this contest must be on your post in order for it to qualify.

4. Link only to your blog post not your main blog url.

(If you submit a photo you are granting us permission to copy and paste it onto our blogs if you win.)

Have I mentioned how much I love my co-host Kim at Mom Tried It? Go visit her. I promise you will love her too!

Favorite Photo of January

2012-02-02T18:47:00.000-08:00

I know I have posted this photo before but Click it Up a Notch is hosting a contest where we post our favorite photo we took in January. This one is definitely my favorite.

SHOOT. EDIT. SUBMIT. People's Choice Winner!

2012-02-02T00:00:00.000-08:00

With 37.78% of the votes...

Marits Hagekos Og Litt Til

Congratulations, Ansku! Your photo was voted Favorite Photo of the Month of January! Your photo will be featured on the side bar of mine and Kim's blogs the entire month of January as a free ad spot for your blog. Plus you have won a $20 credit to Pocketful of Rosies (you can see samples of her products below). Kim will be coordinating with you and Stephenie soon so you can claim your prize. Congratulations on the much deserved win!

If you would like to grab a button for bragging rights, you will find it below.

Creative Happiness

2012-02-01T10:25:00.000-08:00

Never thought I would say this but I actually kind of miss the 365 challenge. I couldn't wait for it to end last year and I was certainly not doing another one this year. The downside though is that I don't pick up my camera as much, I don't interact with my other blogging buddies as often as I would like and I have started to feel a little disconnected. I learned so much photography-wise last year and came so far in my photography skills. I feel I have hit a major dry spell and I have mixed emotions about it. On one hand, I have so much more time to give to my little girl which is awesome, but on the other hand I miss my creative "adult" outlet which is connecting with other photographers. I still don't intend on doing a 365 but I'm trying to think of ways to still challenge myself creatively. So thankful for Ashley's Scavenger Hunt Sundays. When I do participate I feel such a burst of creative happiness participating in something I love so much...photography.

BTW, if you got an e-mail from me stating I am in Spain, I'm not. My e-mail got hacked. My apologies.

What's Up Wednesday!

2012-02-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

Sunday: Focus on the Savior (with Rachel Tatem)

2012-01-29T00:00:00.000-08:00

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My name is Rachel Tatem. I am a wedding photographer, wife, friend and want to be "fashionista". I am married to my best friend, "literally the best man ever",stated channeling Chris from Parks and Recreation, oh and I should probably state that I love media. All forms and fashions of it I deeply enjoy: I even really like advertisements, well done advertisements anyway. I have never been called quiet a day in my life and I'm a bit too proud of it. I love people in a big way. I like to talk a lot but I love to dance more. I think my voice sounds great, and I might be the only one.

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I never know how to start these, a testament to what God has done in my life/what he has taught me. Where do you start? So as all things me I will just simply start. Over the years of growing up, every moment seems to take less and less time. As a child when your mother tells you to go sit still for 15 minutes I remember feeling like it was eternity. Slowly time seems to have sped up. Not actually but my perspective has morphed. But in so many ways my perspective on time is still very childlike.

Over the years I have been married, which has not been many, there has been a lot of waiting. Waiting for direction, waiting for purpose, waiting for jobs, waiting for the purchase of our house to go through. For so much of our marriage we have been on hold in a desire to keep our lives focused on God, trying to honor God. During all this waiting I feel like a child, when things don't happen within my time frame, within my reasoning of right. So often I throw the adult version of a temper tantrum, through the most adult medium possible "prayer requests".

You know what I am talking about. "I would really like your help with waiting cause God isn't make Himself clear, so I can't do what He wants"... I stand there irritated that I'm not getting my way, when I want and exactly how I want. Slowly God has used these long years of almost continual transition to teach me over and over again: I don't matter. My knowing what's going on doesn't matter, no matter how much I wish it did. I am here solely to honor God with my everyday actions. I don't even have to do much of anything... just simply give myself up daily to God.

Sounds so simple, so perfect... yet it is the most difficult thing ever. Despite my failings, despite my entitled attitude and extreme arrogance God blesses me. I think my favorite thing from this past year is that God has helped me see all the blessings, whether as simple as a great parking space on a terrible day or as huge as helping me trust, that He lays upon me everyday. I know that I still miss so much but this year I am ever grateful to God for showing me the tiniest bit of grace He gives me. On my worst days when I can't seem to keep my head up, somehow God helps me see grace. . . I think this is the best thing yet, for I am by no means an optimist. I like to call myself a realist and my "Everything's sunshine" husband deems me a pessimist but he can't be trusted. : D

SHOOT. EDIT. SUBMIT. People's Choice

2012-01-28T00:00:00.000-08:00

Time to vote for your favorite photo from this month's SHOOT. EDIT. SUBMIT. Winners! These listed below were chosen as the #1 winning photo the last 4 weeks and now it is time to choose a winner.

The winner's photo will get a free month long feature on the right side bar of mine and Kim's blog which gives them more exposure thus driving more traffic to their blog.

Not only will the winner win a free month long feature but we also have some wonderful people sponsoring prizes for our winners each month. This month's sponsor is the lovely Stephenie from Pocketful of Rosies.

My name is Stephenie Jordan and I am the owner of Pocketful of Rosies. I am a wife and a stay at home mommy of two! I enjoy utilizing my crafting abilities to bring joy to others and this business is such a blessing. I love to create colorful and fun accessories for all ages. I would be happy to create custom birthday party favors, wedding party accessories, items for cheer, dance teams, prom, or accessories for any other occasion! Most items can be custom ordered to fit your need.

The prize is a $20 credit to her store. This will be enough to buy multiple items. Headbands, earrings, necklaces are all very affordable and suitable for all ages. So, sound the alarm and go gather all your friends, fans and families to come vote for you! These are two amazing prizes that you most certainly will want to claim as your own. If you are not in the running but still wish to have some of these lovely accessories, visit Stephenie's shop to get some of your own! Stephenie included a couple samples her beautiful products below:

Voting closes at midnight on Tuesday. Winner will be announced on Thursday.

Alf Photography

SHOOT. EDIT. SUBMIT.

2012-01-27T00:00:00.000-08:00

I'm just loving the increase in participants. That being said though, you guys sure are making our jobs a lot harder narrowing down our winners...

Awesomeville

The contrast and composition of this shot is spectacular. Truly beautiful! {Kim}

A Country Girl's Ramblings

Such gorgeous clarity and love the black and white conversion. {Misty}

Little Adventures

The bold, crisp colors are fantastic. The depth of field is absolutely perfect. {Kim}

Just A Moment

Gorgeous details and love the way this photo tells a story. {Misty}

Congratulations, winners! Grab your button!

And this week's #1 winner is:

Holy Cow. The detail captured, the colors, just the whole shot. I am stunned. LOVE.IT. {Kim}

Congratulations on being chosen as this week's #1 photo. Grab your button! You will be in the running to win a fabulous prize at the end of the month.

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Well, it's time for you to submit your entries! Be sure to grab the button below to include on your post.

1. Photo must be taken this week.(Sat - Fri)

2. Only one entry per person.

3. "Shoot. Edit. Submit." button or a link back to this contest must be on your post in order for it to qualify.

4. Link only to your blog post not your main blog url.

(If you submit a photo you are granting us permission to copy and paste it onto our blogs if you win.)

By the way, if you haven't already, be sure to go meet my awesome co-host, Kim at Mom Tried It.

Broad-billed Hummingbird

2012-01-26T21:20:00.000-08:00

Enjoyed some wonderful family time at the zoo today. The hubs wanted to go check out the hummingbirds and I'm always up for a photo-op. Isn't this one lovely!

What's Up Wednesday!

2012-01-25T07:56:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since I have posted this linky...If you are like me, you stumble across inspiring photog bloggers from time to time by chance through other bloggers, linkups, comments, etc. Well, I thought I would try to make it easier for you by grouping everyone in one place. Instead of opening this linkup to all bloggers, I am only asking for blogs that are geared toward photography to link up below. Just link up your blog's url below and start sending a "What's Up" shout out to your neighbors! That's it! Linky will be open on Wednesday morning through Thursday evening so get your blog linked up. Be sure to come back to meet new photogs!

It's not required but feel free to grab my button for others to find their way to the linkup as well.

What's Your Story? - Ep. 4

2012-01-23T00:00:00.000-08:00

Arnie (isn't that a cool name?!) was the third of the three bird nerd gents I got to meet. When he heard me questioning his other cohorts he answered my questions before I even had to ask him. I love it when people are excited to help out with my project.

Arnie is the "youth" of the three (see episodes 2 and 3) as he likes to call himself at the ripe young age of 63. He hales from Indiana but has lived in SoCal for quite some time. While back home visiting his family many years ago, he wanted to spend some time with his brother who was an avid birder. Not being a birder himself, Arnie decided it would be worth it just to go along with his brother bird watching just so he could spend some time with him. That day changed things for Arnie and now for the past 25 years he proudly wears the title "bird nerd".

Like me, Arnie is also a photographer. He said his kids grew up with his camera constantly in their faces and though they may not have enjoyed it at the time, now, all these years later, they love sitting down and looking at all the memories their dad captured for them.

A cool little fact I found out is that Arnie's wife, Bill's wife and Bruce are all psychologists. I'm impressed! Being married for 31 years, I'm sure Arnie has many pearls of wisdom he could have given me but one quote he did leave me with was this, "Brighten up a room when you enter it, not when you leave it." I must say I laughed out loud as did we all, but what a quote to dwell on. When do you brighten a room?

Three years is all Arnie has left till he can finally retire from his job in sales. I must confess I didn't quite understand what exactly he sold when he was trying to explain it to me. It sounded impressive though. :)

Arnie shared a personal story with me he asked me not share on the blog, but let's just say that three different times, God spared his life and Arnie firmly believes he is here for a reason. What a pleasure it was to find a new friend in Arnie.

Meet Arnie:

Scavenger Hunt Sunday

2012-01-22T20:42:00.000-08:00

I meant to take some of these pictures this afternoon between church but I totally forgot as I got caught up watching the movie Courageous - a must see for sure. Such an awesome message for fathers, a total tear jerker and all-around great clean movie created by a church in GA. Anyway....totally got on a rabbit trail there. Had to pull a couple of the prompts from the archives, but I tried to be original on the rest.

{Sunset}

One of my first tries at combining two photos to achieve the photo I was trying to get. I like how it turned out.

{Black and White}

Salt and pepper which are already black and white processed black and white. Double whammy.

{A Day in My Life}

Baby girl and I spend many a day at the park...an ordinary day in our lives. A mom at the park gave her this balloon for sharing her bike with another little boy.

{Four}

Yeah this one is definitely from the archives but I like it so why not share it again.

{Colorful}

The crayons in our house are very much used and worn. Baby girl asked me what I was doing and I told her I was looking for something colorful. She grabbed her container of crayons and said, "Here, mommy." Man, she's smart! So thanks to my 2 year old for this prompt. :)

Sunday: Focus on the Savior (with Jennifer Officer)

2012-01-22T00:00:00.000-08:00

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I am first and foremost a daughter of God, saved out of my own personal rebellion and control. God took a life that looked fine on the outside, but was broken beyond recognition. After He healed me, He healed my marriage to the love of my life. My husband and I parent two wonderful children who are too quickly approaching independence. I serve as the children’s pastor at the church where I grew up. I began blogging in late 2010, thinking that I was going to attempt a 365 picture project. (I think I lasted 52 days.) Out of guilt for my ever-present lack of perfection (anybody else?) I was only a sporadic blogger for several months. However, as 2011 came to a close, I realized that I could use my blog as an accountability partner – a world-wide obedience tracker – for what God speaks into my life. Since no one but me, and occasionally my mom, read my blog, I am free to be honest about my struggle and fear and heart-felt desire to follow God with everything I’ve got. When my page views are high, it’s only because I am struggling and desperate to remember what God has spoken to me. I most enjoy cooking and opening my home to people as a ministry – whether lunch and Bible study with a precious group of women on Fridays or cookies with teenagers.

I blog over at Jennifer Officer.

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I can appreciate that some people do not like to cook.

I do not like to garden.

I tried it. When we got married and moved into our home, I immediately planted roses. My mother grew beautiful roses. Wives were supposed to grow beautiful roses.

So I cajoled my sweet man into digging up a rose bed and proceeded to spend way too much money for a newly married couple on rose plants.

I learned something about myself.

I do not like to garden.

When it is hot and humid outside(which is frequently here in TN), I prefer the swimming pool or at the very least the air conditioning. It is hard to tend your roses from either of those places.

I gave up gardening.

Sometimes I forget that I don't like it and I do something ridiculous. Like plant something.

It never ends well.

But cooking...

There I find my pace.

I have felt like God's Word to me this year was to pursue love.

My problem is that in pursuing a Godly marriage, ministry, parenting, a clean house, folded laundry - I forget to pursue love.

Until I slow down and begin to mix the ingredients for a blueberry scone. For no reason except that I have some blueberries going south quickly and I don't like wasting food.

So, with worship music cranked loud and kitchen warm from preheating oven, I bake. And I slow down to pray for people - for soldiers who are recovering, friends who are waiting, people who are searching. As the butter meets the flour and the songs fill my house, I slow down and do the act of love that is most beneficial - I lift my soul to the Only One who is my Help.

He on whom we have set our hope. And He will yet deliver us... 2 Corinthians 1:10

And the beauty of frozen, grated butter meets with the lyrics of a song that played from my daddy's radio years ago

Why me Lord

What have I ever done to deserve even one

Of the pleasures I've known

Tell me Lord

What did I ever do that was worth love from you

Or the kindness you've shown

Lord help me Jesus I've wasted it so

Help me Jesus, you know what I am

Now that I know that I've needed you so

Help me Jesus my soul's in your hands

Try me Lord

If you think there's a way I can ever repay what I've taken from you

Maybe Lord

I can show someone else what I've learned myself

On my way back to you

Lord help me Jesus I've wasted it so

Help me Jesus, you know who I am

But now that I know that I've needed you so

Help me Jesus my soul's in your hands

David Crowder Band - Why Me?

And the tears pour down my face because that is me: undeserving of His pleasures and His love.

And I pray that as I meet this year of pursuing love that I could show someone else what I have learned myself.

I challenge you to find the thing that helps you slow your pace and turn your face toward heaven. Have you found it?

SHOOT. EDIT. SUBMIT.

2012-01-20T00:00:00.000-08:00

So encouraging to see the number of participants this week and all the talent mixed in. You guys are incredible. We have narrowed down the winners to these:

So majestic and glorious. Again here is proof of an amazing Creator. Incredible capture.{Misty}

Butterflies in Time Photography

The softness of this shot is amazing. It doesn't miss one spec of detail, either. Simply marvelous! {Kim}

Mrs. Southern Bride

Gorgeous choice of b&w for this image. Gorgeous details and beautiful DOF. {Misty}

I love the tones and the light. Plus, I am a sucker for a good macro shot and this is good. {Kim}

Congratulations, winners! Grab your button!

And this week's #1 winner is:

You'll Shoot Your Eye Out

Everything about this picture portrays peace and serenity. Stunning lighting and details all the way down to the water dripping from it's beak. Blew me away. Well done! {Misty}

Congratulations on being chosen as this week's #1 photo. Grab your button! You will be in the running to win a fabulous prize at the end of the month.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Well, it's time for you to submit your entries! Be sure to grab the button below to include on your post.

1. Photo must be taken this week.(Sat - Fri)

2. Only one entry per person.

3. "Shoot. Edit. Submit." button or a link back to this contest must be on your post in order for it to qualify.

4. Link only to your blog post not your main blog url.

(If you submit a photo you are granting us permission to copy and paste it onto our blogs if you win.)

By the way, if you haven't already, be sure to go meet my awesome co-host, Kim at Mom Tried It.

What's Your Story? - Ep. 3

2012-01-16T00:00:00.000-08:00

I met Bruce the same time I met Bill (from last week's episode). He was out bird watching with his buddies along side a pond located in the center of a short roundabout hiking path. One thing that really stood out to me was Bruce's calm gentle personality. He was so kind and answered all my questions with the utmost interest in my project. He loved that I was following my passion and encouraged me to always do so.

Bruce has been birding for 40 years. At 69 years old that is a good chunk of his life spent enjoying his favorite hobby. When giving me advice he said, "Find your passion and pursue it." It was so nice to hear that from someone who did so himself.

Bruce has been married for 20 years and he shared with me a little known fact about himself: He loves opera! I would have never thought that to look at him, but he told me that his love of opera goes hand in hand with his love of birds. The same joy that comes from listening to opera is the same joy he gets out of hearing birds sing. Both are music and both are beautiful.

Unfortunately Bruce is not able to dedicate as much time to birding as I'm sure he would like, because he hasn't retired yet. Would you believe it if I told you he's a psychologist? Interesting huh? I so wish we had more time so I could ask him more details about his job but I had already spent so much time asking him so many questions.

Thanks so much, Bruce, for sharing some of your story with me. What a pleasure!

Meet Bruce:

Scavenger Hunt Sunday

2012-01-15T20:21:00.000-08:00

It felt good to pull my camera out again today and be a little creative. I really should not wait till the last minute to do these but it seems I work best under pressure. :)

{Stacked Up}

A deck of cards all stacked up.

{Winter Wonderland}

I pulled this one from the archives. We don't get snow here in SoCal unless you go up to the mountains and we haven't made it up there this year.

{Sweet}

A cute little container with all the ingredients for marshmallow hot chocolate.

{Hole}

A hole in the center of a lifesaver.

{Frozen}

Another one from the archives.

The flower fadeth...

2012-01-14T19:13:00.000-08:00

Chilling Out

2012-01-14T16:48:00.000-08:00

Before I got married and had a child I was a neat freak. I mean freaky neat! You wouldn't find a crumb on my floor. All my bills and receipts were organized. There was never a dirty dish in the sink. Water spots on the counter? Unheard of!

My life is the complete opposite of that now. Getting married started the drastic change as..well...the hubs is....the opposite of me....to put it nicely. :)

I am slowly coming to grips with it, but the hubs knows that I can only take it for so long and then look out. He stays out of my way on those days as I plow through the house, throwing things away, (You best hide your keepsakes or they will most likely be tossed) organizing, cleaning, just basically making my house liveable enough that I can stand it.

Though I have a spontaneous side to me, I am also a creature of habit. Baby girl and I have pretty much the same schedule each week with alternating activities and I don't always handle hiccups in it very well, depending on what that hiccup is. I have a hard time picking a day to plan things with friends, because I like to stick to my schedule. Weird, I know.

I am the same way with my blog. I won't participate in certain challenges that I have to dedicate a post to, because it doesn't fit in with my weekly posts. Completing my 365 project was a total relief but it has now affected my OCD tendencies.

Writing this very post is not part of my blogging ways. I post pictures. I host a contest. I write about my interviews with strangers. I write tutorials. I feature guest bloggers on my Sunday series. If only it were that simple. I feel like if I am going to write a tutorial, I need to write a tutorial every week and it needs to be on a Tuesday. If I am going to do my Sunday series, I don't like having gaps between the weeks, so I feel like I need to have all the posts lined up before I even post one. If I am going to post another "What's Your Story?" I don't post it when I meet these people, I feel the need to post one weekly on a Monday, not whenever it blows my hair back to do so.

I don't even know why I am writing all this. I guess basically I am just trying to tell myself to just chill out and blog when I want to blog. Post when I want to post, not when it falls in line with my self-restraining schedule.

I need to blog for me and not just for my followers. Being me and being real will attract followers who follow my blog because of who I am and not what I think people want to see.

So this year my goal is to strive to blog for enjoyment without the pressures I put on myself last year. To let this blog just be a creative outlet for whatever brings me happiness. So you may see some randomness here and there outside of my normal posting schedule but that's okay. It's just me chilling out...

SHOOT. EDIT. SUBMIT.

2012-01-13T00:00:00.000-08:00

We had some wonderful entries this week! So many that it's a shame we don't have space for those that were runner ups. You all definitely made our job difficult this week narrowing down the winners, but these are the ones we finally decided upon.

This photo definitely tells a story and sparks your interest. Very good use of space and depth of field to illustrate that story. I could see this photo on the cover of a book. {Kim}

Marits Hagekos Og Litt Til

What an incredible mix of colors and depth of field. The horizon looks like it stretches on forever. Amazing lighting and details. {Misty}

Miggyhood

This photo captured that look of sheer joy and adoration in a new mother's eyes. Plus the expression on the baby's face is priceless. The light is wonderful and the composition is fabulous. {Kim}

Photos by LeAnne

This was my personal favorite this week. It looks like a painting. Gorgeous lighting, textures, selective cropping, and colors. Just incredible! {Misty}

Congratulations, winners! Grab your button!

And this week's #1 winner is:

I love the light in this shot, the texture, and the composition. It is beautiful. {Kim}

Congratulations on being chosen as this week's #1 photo. Grab your button! You will be in the running to win a fabulous prize at the end of the month.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Well, it's time for you to submit your entries! Be sure to grab the button below to include on your post.

1. Photo must be taken this week.(Sat - Fri)

2. Only one entry per person.

3. "Shoot. Edit. Submit." button or a link back to this contest must be on your post in order for it to qualify.

4. Link only to your blog post not your main blog url.

(If you submit a photo you are granting us permission to copy and paste it onto our blogs if you win.)

By the way, if you haven't already, be sure to go meet my awesome co-host, Kim at Mom Tried It.

I just can't help myself...

2012-01-12T14:22:00.000-08:00

Being the proud mama that I am, I just had to share this picture of my baby girl. LOVE!

What's Your Story? - Ep. 2

2012-01-09T00:00:00.000-08:00

I met Bill while out for a hike with the hubs and my baby girl. Bill was out bird watching with a couple of his buddies (of whose stories you will hear about in future episodes). The hubs, baby girl and I had gone for a short little hike because the hubs, being a bird nerd too, wanted to check out some birds he had heard were in the area. Baby girl and I were playing down by a pond throwing some sticks in the water (the ultimate excitement for a 2 year old). We were just heading out when we crossed paths with Bill and his bird nerd cohorts. The hubs said he wanted to check with them to see if they could confirm a bird ID down at the pond, so I played around with baby girl while we were waiting. Then it occurred to me...the hubs had already met these gents so the door was open for me to start chatting with them too.

I'm sure Bill thought I was rather strange when I started asking questions about his personal life outside of their birding conversations. As I continued to ~~pry~~ show interest into his personal life, I figured I better tell him about my project. His interest peaked when I told him what I was doing and he was then so happy to share his story with me...

Bill has lived here in SoCal for 50 years out of his 70 yrs of life so yeah, I would consider him from SoCal. Out of his 70 years he has spent 60ish of those years birding. His interest in birds was peaked when as a kid he would watch his grandma feeding birds in her yard. His love of bird watching only grew from there and he was able to dedicate serious time to his hobby when he retired from his job as a district manager from a bread company. Twice in the last year he has traveled to Arizona just to see one particular bird. That's some serious passion right there!

When I asked Bill how long he has been married he chuckled and asked "which time?" Pausing for a moment he told me he had been married 22 years and this one was definitely a keeper. I found out later his wife is a psychologist and thankfully tolerates his random bird trips. Bill's justification is that he could have worse hobbies. *chuckle*

I asked Bill to tell me one little known fact about himself as well as one piece of advice. His little known fact: In 'another life' he would have loved to have been a chef. Since his wife still works, he has taken over all the cooking responsibilities at their house. What a good husband. I should have tried to get us a dinner invite. :)

Bill's words of advice: "Spend as much of your life as possible outdoors." I concur, Bill.

Meet Bill:

Hawk Watch

2012-01-07T21:59:00.000-08:00

Every year, a group of biologists and other bird specialists get together to host a Hawk Watch that runs every Saturday for about 2 months. It gives the public a chance to come in and see some amazing birds up close, ask questions, take pictures and observe birds in the wild.

It's a big hit for bird nerds, families and photographers alike as we get to take some awesome photos and learn some interesting facts. They used to be allowed to trap the birds and showcase them to the public before tagging them and releasing them but that is no longer allowed. They are only allowed to capture them for research purposes but not for showcasing them to the public as that then falls under the term "recreational". Thankfully there are many avid birders and biologists out there that have their own birds they are raising and they brought them in to show us today. We got to see a kestrel, a peregrine falcon, a red shouldered hawk, a red tailed hawk and a couple different kinds of owls. Pretty amazing creatures. Pretty amazing Creator!

SHOOT. EDIT. SUBMIT.

2012-01-06T00:01:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year, All! Hoping that with all the new 365ers and new followers this year we will be in for some awesome entries. You all have been so great and I so appreciate you still participating throughout the holidays. A fresh new year with fresh new projects is sure to bring a lot of fantastic pictures our way. Anyhow, on to this week's winners.

You'll Shoot Your Eye Out

Love the creativity of this shot. The cork in the foreground with the glass in the background and the perfect added texture. What a great way to bring in the new year! {Misty}

Serendipity is Sweet

I think the reflections make this shot. The colors against the dark sky make it really pop. {Kim}

Danelle is right. There is no better color for a bike than red. Great selective focus. {Misty}

Scattered Horizons

The tones and softness in this shot just exude a laid back beach feel. I love the subjects in the front plain of the image and the background is just as interesting. {Kim}

Congratulations, winners! Grab your button!

And this week's #1 winner is:

Alf Photography

Absolutely incredible. Gorgeous colors and awesome landscape and amazing sky. The pier really adds a nice touch too. {Misty}

Congratulations on being chosen as this week's #1 photo. Grab your button! You will be in the running to win a fabulous prize at the end of the month.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Well, it's time for you to submit your entries! Be sure to grab the button below to include on your post.

1. Photo must be taken this week.(Sat - Fri)

2. Only one entry per person.

3. "Shoot. Edit. Submit." button or a link back to this contest must be on your post in order for it to qualify.

4. Link only to your blog post not your main blog url.

(If you submit a photo you are granting us permission to copy and paste it onto our blogs if you win.)

By the way, if you haven't already, be sure to go meet my awesome co-host, Kim at Mom Tried It.

SHOOT. EDIT. SUBMIT. People's Choice Winner!

2012-01-05T00:00:00.000-08:00

With 42.22% of the votes...

Pioneer Photography

Congratulations, Libbi! Your photo was voted Favorite Photo of the Month of December! Your photo will be featured on the side bar of mine and Kim's blogs the entire month of January as a free ad spot for your blog. Plus you have won your choice of a stylish camera strap from Gina at Chic Homeschool Mama. Kim will be coordinating with you and Gina soon so you can claim your prize. Congratulations on the much deserved win!

If you would like to grab a button for bragging rights, you will find it below. :)

Calling All Christians!

2012-01-03T12:00:00.000-08:00

As you may have noticed last year, I was doing a weekly Sunday series on my blog called Sunday: Focus on the Savior. I took a break from it towards the end of the year because I know how busy everyone's lives get that time of year and I didn't want to pressure anyone to get a guest post to me.

So...it's now the new year and I am looking for guest posters who want to write up something for my weekly feature. Whether it be your testimony, or something the Lord has taught you, I am just looking for those who want to publicly give honor and glory to the Lord.

If you would like to write up a guest post for my blog, please leave a comment with your e-mail address and I will send you the details.

Let's make this year a year of giving God the glory!

What's Your Story? - Ep. 1

2012-01-02T21:33:00.000-08:00

By nature I am a very out going person. I will talk to most anyone and can strike up a conversation with just about any random person. When I told the hubs that I was going to be taking on this project this year he was a little leery as to what kind of people I would be talking to. Of course there are many nut jobs out there of whom I will do my utmost best to avoid and of course I will always do my best to be smart about this project and the people I talk to.

I must say as I headed out on Sunday to run an errand with camera in hand, I was just a teensy bit nervous. I talk to people, sure, but I usually don't nose into their personal life or even ask to take their picture for that matter.

After meeting my first 'stranger', I decided that the best way to do this would be to have already struck up a conversation with them and then tell them about my project instead of just walking up to random strangers and asking them for their story and if I can take their picture. Not knowing at all how people will respond to the whole idea, I was so relieved to meet my first 'stranger', Esther.

I met Esther while shopping at Kohls with my aunt. Esther was trying to reach a swim suit located way up on the wall. There hanging on the wall was one of those pole-doo-hickey things that store clerks use to get stuff down from up high. Of course there is a sign right there that says to ask a store clerk for help but I encouraged Esther just to do it herself because being the "dare-devil" that I am, I do it all the time.

So...why, you ask was Esther shopping for a swimsuit in January? I am glad you asked because it links in to a big chunk of Esther's story.

When I asked her what her name was she said, "Esther Williams *chuckle* Yes, that's my real name." She and my aunt started chuckling and I just looked at them a little perplexed. Apparently I am too young to know that Esther Williams is famous. Never heard of her. :)

Anyway, Esther is a 3rd generation San Diegan. I must say I was hoping for her to tell me she was from some cool far off distant land, but ah well. We San Diegans are pretty cool people. Interestingly enough though she told me that her brother did a DNA search tracing their family history all the way back to Israel! Wow! How cool to have family tracing back to the Promise Land.

Esther has been married for 8 years and has 1 son from her previous marriage who is now in 8th grade. Wonderfully, he has the same name that I have always hoped to name my future son some day. Yes, we were meant to meet!

She is a middle school teacher, but get this...she travels! Alot! She's been to places such as Europe and Africa and pretty soon she and her best friend are headed off to Costa Rica for a full blown adventure including water fall repelling and all kinds of cool activities. 10 full days of pure adrenalin-pumping fun...hence the shopping for the swimsuit. To stay in shape for all this traveling she does she engulfs herself in all things fitness including kick boxing, running half marathons, working out, target shooting, etc. This is my kinda girl. One thing I really took away from our conversation is that even though I have a kid, the fun doesn't end. I can still be adventurous. She said that her son and husband accompany her on most of her trips. To add icing to the cake, she is also an amateur photographer. Traveling the world is definitely a photographer's dream and Esther is living that dream to the fullest.

Meet Esther...

Day 365 - Happy Birthday, Hubs!

2011-12-31T21:32:00.000-08:00

I couldn't think of a more fitting picture for the last picture of the year than of my two favorite people in the world. Today is my hubs' birthday and this picture depicts so much of who he is. Love my family so much and am looking forward to another year of wonderful memories we will create together.

I have learned so much throughout the course of this 365 project and I am so happy to finally be finished with it. I will not be doing another one but I will still be around so...see you all next year!

SHOOT. EDIT. SUBMIT. People's Choice

2011-12-31T00:00:00.000-08:00

Time to vote for your favorite photo from this month's SHOOT. EDIT. SUBMIT. Winners! These listed below were chosen as the #1 winning photo the last 5 weeks and now it is time to choose a winner.

The winner's photo will get a free month long feature on the right side bar of mine and Kim's blog which gives them more exposure thus driving more traffic to their blog.

Not only will the winner win a free month long feature but we also have some wonderful people sponsoring prizes for our winners each month. This month's sponsor is the lovely Gina from Chic Homeschool Mama!

I am a 30 something homeschooling mom and devoted wife to a fire chief. I have 3 children - ages 13, 10 & 8. We live in Southern Nevada. I have been blogging for many years now but just recently (about a year ago) really started following my passion for photography. A few months ago I finally upgraded my camera to my first DSLR. It wasn't too long after that when I started searching for a camera strap that really spoke to who I am & had some style too. I started this shop because I figured I couldn't be the only woman that craved more style in my accessories! I know that many of my photographer friends feel like I do when it comes to personalizing their gear. I hope you find that perfect accessory you're looking for.

She is giving away any one of her stylish camera straps to this month's winner. So, sound the alarm and go gather all your friends, fans and families to come vote for you! These are two amazing prizes that you most certainly will want to claim as your own. If you are not in the running but still wish to have a stylish strap of your own, visit Gina's Shop to get one! Gina included a sample of one of her gorgeous straps below:

Voting closes at midnight on Wednesday. Winner will be announced on Thursday.

A Rural Journal

Love,
The Momma Bird
The Shine Project
Living on Love
Cantelmo Family Blog
Our Little Almanac
My Blog Kip
Through the Eyes of the Mrs.
NoVa Mom Blog
Little Miss Nerd Girl
The Hollie Rogue
Through a Photographers Eyes
Stuff I Love
Lily White
BabEblessings

Pioneer Photography

Live, Love, Travel

Day 364 - Bunny

2011-12-30T21:06:00.000-08:00

SHOOT. EDIT. SUBMIT.

2011-12-30T00:00:00.000-08:00

Well I hope everyone enjoyed their Christmas. I know mine couldn't have been any more perfect seeing and hearing the delight from my little girl as she opened each present. Kids make Christmas completely awesome. I so appreciate those of you who participated this week. I know the busyness of the holidays has even kept me away from participating in other linkys. Check out the winners!

Maboe

The details captured of the ice crystals is just amazing. Very well done. {Kim}

Pretty Pix

This photo was titled "Serenity Is" and I couldn't think of a more accurate name for this. Incredible details and gorgeous reflections. An overall marvelous landscape. {Misty}

Serendipity is Sweet

I love the creativity of this shot. The composition is nice and balanced. I just kept coming back to it. Nice!! {Kim}

Picking Poppies

Absolutely insane! I mean...wow! This would have definitely been my winner of the week. Everything about this photo is absolutely incredible from the lighting to the reflections...it's all gorgeous! {Misty}

Congratulations, winners! Grab your button!

And this week's #1 winner is:

Live, Love, Travel

Food photography is so much harder than it looks. Jaymi did a fantastic job with depth of field, varying textures, and using the plates and placemats to add geometric form to keep the shot interesting. This looks like it came straight out of a magazine! {Kim}

Congratulations on being chosen as this week's #1 photo. Grab your button! You will be in the running to win a fabulous prize at the end of the month.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Well, it's time for you to submit your entries! Be sure to grab the button below to include on your post.

1. Photo must be taken this week.(Sat - Fri)

2. Only one entry per person.

3. "Shoot. Edit. Submit." button or a link back to this contest must be on your post in order for it to qualify.

4. Link only to your blog post not your main blog url.

(If you submit a photo you are granting us permission to copy and paste it onto our blogs if you win.)

Day 363 - Rainbow Sunburst

2011-12-29T20:39:00.000-08:00

Two more days! Two more pictures! I have enjoyed this challenge (and by challenge I mean challenge) but I am so happy to be almost done. I never make New Year's Resolutions and I really didn't consider this challenge a resolution when I took it on but I am so happy that I stuck with it.

Day 362 - Best Friends

2011-12-28T22:09:00.000-08:00

I actually don't even know this couple but I just imagine that they have known each other since they were eights years old, grew up on farms, were the best of friends, married when they were 18 and have been married for a gazillion years. I couldn't resist capturing this sweet moment of this elderly couple as they consulted each other while pouring over their map of the Zoo. It just melted my heart.

Speaking of taking pictures of people you don't know, I have finally decided which direction my blog is going to go next year. I will still be posting random pictures throughout the year but I have decided I want the theme of my blog to be "What's Your Story?" I was going to just do stories of other bloggers but I have decided to expand it to strangers I meet out and about. Because I am so ~~nosy~~ curious, I am always dying to ask people their stories and I have decided to make it my goal this coming year to meet as many new people as possible and ask them if I can take their picture and share their story. I came up with the idea a while ago and then read about a Flickr group called 100 strangers that has the same general idea and I decided I am not going to give myself a limit or even a goal of how many people I am going to photograph. I am going to go easy on myself this next year and just enjoy it. I haven't decided if I will do a weekly post or what. We shall see, but I am so excited to finally have another direction to take my blog in. Hope you will still follow and feel free to join in. If I see interest in taking on this challenge I may open it up as a link up.

3 more days!.....

Top 11 of 2011

2011-12-27T21:59:00.000-08:00

What a sweet trip down memory lane this was! You mamas know that only choosing 11 pictures of your child is an extremely hard task. I want to choose them all! :)

Day 361 - Ferrero Rocher

2011-12-27T17:22:00.000-08:00

Can one ever have too many Ferrero Rochers? I think not!

Day 360 - Princess

2011-12-26T15:47:00.000-08:00

My daughter squeals and exclaims "pincess!" (yes, that is spelled incorrectly since she doesn't say her "R's" yet) whenever she sees any of the Disney girls. She loves her new princess dress up shoes. I love that on one hand she has my tom-boyishness with her love of Toy Story but yet she is still girly loving her princesses. That's my girl! Just liker her mama. :)

Day 359 - Merry Christmas - Toy Story Style

2011-12-25T22:25:00.000-08:00

Toy Story seems to be the theme of our Christmas this year as it is a favorite of my baby girl's. Toy Story wrapping paper, coloring book, ornament and of course non other than the kings of Toy Story themselves: Woody and Buzz! A grand Christmas for my little girl. :)

Day 358 - Sugar Cookies

2011-12-24T22:00:00.000-08:00

My baby girl and I made sugar cookies together today. It takes 3 times as long but is 10 times the fun!

Twas the Night Before Christmas

2011-12-24T00:00:00.000-08:00

Michelle at the Momma Bird recruited a few of us bloggers to re-write Twas the Night Before Christmas blog style. Enjoy!

Twas the Night Before Christmas
{blog style}

Twas the night before Christmas, while scheduling posts on the blog
Not a child was stirring, they were bumps on a log.
Facebook was quiet no updates to see,
I sure hope Santa remembers presents for me!
{Michelle @ the Momma Bird}

Oliver was chewing his bone by the fire,
his eyes were heavy, he was so very tired.
I had on my onesie covered with penguins you see,
hoping that under the mistletoe Mike would meet me.
{Ashley @ The Shine Project}

When out on the web there arose such a clatter,
from the Duggars &cloth diapering, to family matters.
Away to my laptop I started typing away,
25 blog posts to schedule before Christmas day!
{Lacy @ Living on Love}

The room was a mess and life was on hold,
as the luster of my screen showed I had one more post to go.
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
but a sleigh, and eight tiny reindeer.
{Melanie @ Catelmo Family Blog}

With a plump red belly and a white beard to boot,
I knew it was Santa Clause delivering his loot,
With a voice that sounded much like Tom Hanks,
He shouted out to his flying ranks:
{Kendra @ Our Little Almanac}

Can you hear that baby?! Happy, now sad, now laughing, now crying!
Little girl don’t you know, tonight’s the night in which I am flying!
From the boppy to the bed, all in one fell swoop. Let’s scurry off to bed, for your mommy is pooped!
{Alexandra @ My Blog Kip}

As the wind picks up and the snow is falling,
We are met with deadlines and emails are calling.
So up to the house the laptop now closes,
With a sleigh full of Giveaways and cheeks all a rosey.
{Beth @ Through the Eyes of the Mrs.}

And then as I took a sip of my tea
I heard, on the roof, someone louder than me.
I quickly grabbed my flask to spike my large cup.
Oh phew, it's just Santa, here to make my pageviews go up.
{Niki @ NoVa Mom Blog}

He was dressed all in red, it was a nice little look,
And a noticed in his bag, a little silver Macbook.
He took out his Mac, took a seat in a chair,
Then connected to the web, and said, "I like to share what I wear."
{Lacey @ Little Miss Nerd Girl}

His Iphone did twinkle! His Ipad did glow.
His fingers like ice cubes, his pointer like snow.
He looked for his warmers, they went on with a pop,
he could text and browse thanks, to the Hollie Rogue Shop!
{Andi @ The Hollie Rogue}

The click of the mouse beneath His forefinger,
As upon another blog post his eyes did linger.
But alas he grimaced in pure consternation
As he saw that dreaded prompt “Word Verification”
{Misty @ Through A Photographers Eyes}

He was savvy and smart, a solo Geek Squad in red,
And I followed each detailed instruction he said.
And my blog design problems were through, I could tell,
For Santa, it seems, sure knows html.
{Cat @ Stuff I Love}

I sat at my desk, typing away with a smirk,
choosing words and pics to display all my quirks.
Each word and sentence slowly turns into prose,
the night ticks away, as the bright screen still glows.
{Mary @ Lily White}

I sprang to my laptop, not a moment to lose,
and feverishly typed while G continued to snooze.
I looked out the window, as he disappeared into the night,
wishing Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night.”
{Jac @ BabEblessings}

Merry 'early' Christmas Everyone!!!

Day 357 - Rust

2011-12-23T17:24:00.000-08:00

SHOOT. EDIT. SUBMIT.

2011-12-23T00:00:00.000-08:00

Welcome to another week of SHOOT. EDIT. SUBMIT! I often wonder how many people check back to see if they won. I know when I submit a photo to a contest I usually always check back. Just a thought... Well, Kim and I had to arm wrestle again this week over which of us got to select the winning photo as our own. :) So, check out our choices below!

Merry Christmas to all our contestants!

Snapshots of My Life

The emotion captured in this photo just really gripped me. Great choice of black and white. {Misty}

AJ Kreations

I could easily see this printed. It is a work of art. The soft tones and varying textures make it so interesting. I just want to keep looking at it to see everything in it. {Kim}

Living Outside the Stacks

This reminds me of an Ansel Adams photo. Snow is a hard to get the white balance accurate on but the black and white contrast is spot on! {Misty}

The Moments in Between

I love the bright colors in this shot. The details that were captured are amazing, too. Jessi put that it is SOOC (straight out of the camera, too), crazy! {Kim}

Congratulations, winners! Grab your button!

And this week's #1 winner is:

Pioneer Photography

Insane details! Almost looks to good to be real. I am amazed with the clarity and sharp contrast. A real stunner! {Misty}

Congratulations on being chosen as this week's #1 photo. Grab your button! You will be in the running to win a fabulous prize at the end of the month.

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Well, it's time for you to submit your entries! Be sure to grab the button below to include on your post.

1. Photo must be taken this week.(Sat - Fri)

2. Only one entry per person.

3. "Shoot. Edit. Submit." button or a link back to this contest must be on your post in order for it to qualify.

4. Link only to your blog post not your main blog url.

(If you submit a photo you are granting us permission to copy and paste it onto our blogs if you win.)

Day 356 - F.R.I.E.N.D.S.

2011-12-22T17:33:00.000-08:00

How have I made it through an entire year without once mentioning my FRIENDS addiction?! If there was such a thing as F.A. (Friends Anonymous) my hubs would have probably sent me by now. :) I of course own all 10 seasons and it's only a matter of time till they are completely worn out and need to be replaced. :) People play music in the background when they are cleaning, I play FRIENDS. People read a good book before falling asleep. I watch FRIENDS. I think I may have a problem....:)

Day 355 - Street Entertainer

2011-12-21T21:35:00.000-08:00

You will see these entertainers any given day if you visit downtown San Diego. They gather quite the crowd.

Day 354 - Product Prep

2011-12-20T21:54:00.000-08:00

I'm all about presentation when delivering a product to one of my clients. I am meeting with two different clients tomorrow to deliver their pictures to them so I was getting everything prepped tonight.

P.S. Can't wait to get my new business cards! It will be so nice when everything is uniformed.

Day 353 - Truffles

2011-12-19T15:03:00.000-08:00

My mom hosted a Christmas party for some of the people from church the other night. We all had to bring white elephant gifts but there is always at least one person who brings the non-white elephant awesome gift and I was the very happy winner of said gift. One of the items in the bag was a ginormous bag of Lindt Truffles. One of my absolute fave candies. Oh mama! I am one happy lady!

Day 352 - Scavenger Hunt Sunday / 1/2 cup

2011-12-18T22:20:00.000-08:00

Yep, I waited again till today to get all the prompts for today's Scavenger Hunt AND I waited till after the sun went down so I had to use crappy fluorescent lighting. Ah well. At least I participated, right?

{Joy}

Does this picture look familiar? I have posted it before but it's all I had for this prompt.

{What Is It?}

Ok, so it's pretty obvious what the foreground is but do you know what the background is? A bit of a stretch for this prompt, I know. lol

{Half} Picture of the Day

Half a cup - Genius, right? :)

{Window}

The window of one of the toy cars has a really bad reflection in it, but hey, it's a window. :) I snatched one of the cars my daughter was playing with to take this. Thankfully she didn't care.

{Children Sleeping}

Another old picture I am using for this prompt. My daughter is a light sleeper so I can't exactly go in and set up my tripod to get a good picture of her, so this will have to do. This is my favorite TV to watch. :)

Day 351 - Lasting Fall

2011-12-17T15:31:00.000-08:00

We still have gorgeous fall colors around here. Lots of them. Finally some cooler temps for SoCal - 60s.

I just need to say a special thank you for all my sweet followers who have still been stopping by and leaving comments. I have been a horrible blogging buddy barely able to visit blogs and not even host everything on my blog I was hosting before. I would blame it on this time of year, but...well...I guess maybe it is this time of year. All of a sudden I am mega busy. Hopefully the New Year will bring a new refreshed me. I miss you all!

Day 350 - Weird Plant

2011-12-16T15:25:00.000-08:00

How odd looking is this thing! It's pokey too. Guess what, folks! Only 15 days left...woot woot!

Does anyone else plan on printing their 365 project into a book? If so, I'm looking for ideas on the best place to have it printed.

SHOOT. EDIT. SUBMIT.

2011-12-16T08:29:00.000-08:00

Welcome to another week of SHOOT. EDIT. SUBMIT! Loving all the holiday cheer you all are sending my way in this contest. Fabulous shots! Can't believe it's only 9 days till Christmas! Are you ready? :) Here are our winners for the week!

Ramblings and Photos

This shot captures the Christmas feel perfectly. {Kim}

Mumma Made It

Such incredible colors and details! I haven't picked a bug photo in a couple weeks so I'm allowed to pick another bug picture as my favorite. :) {Misty}

Self portraiture is so hard. I think she nailed it! I love the emotions in this. {Kim}

Homesick

Henrietta always blows me away with her artistic displays within her photographs. Gorgeous! {Misty}

Congratulations, winners! Grab your button!

And this week's #1 winner is:

A Country Girl's Ramblings

I love the entire feel of this. The processing is just fabulous. {Kim}

Congratulations on being chosen as this week's #1 photo. Grab your button! You will be in the running to win a fabulous prize at the end of the month.

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Well, it's time for you to submit your entries! Be sure to grab the button below to include on your post.

1. Photo must be taken this week.(Sat - Fri)

2. Only one entry per person.

3. "Shoot. Edit. Submit." button or a link back to this contest must be on your post in order for it to qualify.

4. Link only to your blog post not your main blog url.

(If you submit a photo you are granting us permission to copy and paste it onto our blogs if you win.)

Day 349 - Another Portrait

2011-12-15T22:12:00.000-08:00

Love this shot. Barely any tweaking done. Pretty much SOOC. The bond between this mom and her adopted son was so endearing. Love!

December 31 can't seem to get here fast enough. I am so ready to be done. :) Hope you all are having a fabulous holiday season. Don't forget that Jesus is the reason for the season!

Day 348 - Birds of Paradise

2011-12-14T22:31:00.000-08:00

Yep, we still have some vibrant colors around but you can see the slight onset of winter in the brown.

Day 347 - O Christmas Tree

2011-12-13T21:42:00.000-08:00

My attempt at Christmas tree lights starbursts. Having a toddler makes Christmas so much more enjoyable. I can't wait till the tree is full of her ornaments. I'm loving the three she has already from all three Christmases she has been here to celebrate with us.

Day 346 - Frosty the Snowman

2011-12-12T21:51:00.000-08:00

Would you believe I actually pulled out my camera today and took a brand new photo. I've been cheating the past few days because I have been so incredibly busy. Anyway, I had fun with this shot. If you could see my setups for shots like this you would for sure chuckle. Not to mention it's extra work keeping a 2 year old from running in front of the camera.

Psst... I cheated on this photo. There wasn't near as much bokeh as I wanted so I cloned some in. Shhh....Don't tell anyone!

Day 345 - Chain Links

2011-12-11T22:02:00.000-08:00

Sunday: Focus on the Savior (with Michelle Parrott)

2011-12-11T00:00:00.000-08:00

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Hi! I'm Michelle and I blog over at The Momma Bird. I am a military wife, Momma to two rowdy boys, former elementary teacher turned SAHM. I'm a Christian, blogger, and social media addict. I'm currently living in England with our little family, enjoying where God has brought us and excited to see where He takes us from here.

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During my quiet time this morning I was reading about "Life in the Fast Lane". Always on the go, filling our days with this, that and the other and yet so many days we fail to commit the day to our Heavenly Father. What a powerful truth. I know in my personal life I struggle to commit my days to God.

This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24

As a SAHM, my days are filled with changing diapers, cleaning up potty accidents, feeding hungry bellies, playing with the littles, creating projects, breaking up fights, cleaning, cuddling, making dinner and everything else in between. I fail to squeeze in a decent quiet time if I don't wake up before the kids, or even get one in at all!

Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Psalm 90:12

The days I do get up before the kids and am able to spend some time in the Word, my heart is in a better place. My mind is at ease and my patience is astounding. It's silly to look back on it and realize that these days are such a joy because I have committed it to the Lord FIRST. He is the one that is in charge regardless of whether or not I commit it to Him, yet when I do He is showering me with His wonderful blessings.

Commit your way to the Lord Psalm 37:5

Such a powerful and gracious God we serve. I challenge you - commit your days to the Lord. They are His anyway, so why not just let Him know you are willing to hand it over to His blessings.

Day 344 - Sisterly Love

2011-12-10T22:55:00.000-08:00

Day 343 - A Man's Best Friend

2011-12-09T22:20:00.000-08:00

I know. I know. I am posting another portrait from another photo shoot, but thankfully this is what my life has been consisting of lately. I am so grateful. I've been busy busy and tomorrow I meet with clients all day. This weekend is a mega crazy one and next week will be filled with editing and filling client orders. Love my job!

SHOOT. EDIT. SUBMIT.

2011-12-09T00:00:00.000-08:00

Welcome to another week of SHOOT. EDIT. SUBMIT! I have so crazy busy this week that I totally forgot to send Kim the post to get up by midnight her time. I'm thankful for the photography jobs I have gotten though for sure. Here are our winners for the week!

Hot Coffee Mama

Seriously loving the selective focus and DOF! {Misty}

It looks like something straight out of Narnia. I love the light and well...everything. {Kim}

When I saw the thumbnail I knew I would love this picture. Love the frame (window) within the frame (vine) within the frame (camera). Not to mention the colors are incredible! {Misty}

Then Along Came the Boy

The use of negative space is just perfect in this shot. What a fantastic and well trained eye to compose this one. Beautiful! {Kim}

Congratulations, winners! Grab your button!

And this week's #1 winner is:

Danelle is one of my favorite photographers out of all the blogs I follow. Her lighting is always spot on perfection and the rich contrasting colors in this photo made this my absolute favorite. {Misty}

Congratulations on being chosen as this week's #1 photo. Grab your button! You will be in the running to win a fabulous prize at the end of the month.

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Well, it's time for you to submit your entries! Be sure to grab the button below to include on your post.

1. Photo must be taken this week.(Sat - Fri)

2. Only one entry per person.

3. "Shoot. Edit. Submit." button or a link back to this contest must be on your post in order for it to qualify.

4. Link only to your blog post not your main blog url.

(If you submit a photo you are granting us permission to copy and paste it onto our blogs if you win.)

Day 342 - "Baby Story"

2011-12-08T22:48:00.000-08:00

Each year since my daughter was born, I have bought her a different Christmas ornament. This is now her 3rd Christmas and since she is really into Toy Story this year, (my daughter calls it Baby Story because of the baby in the 3rd movie....why she likes the creepy baby I have know idea) I got her a Woody and Buzz ornament. She loves it apparently because before she went to bed tonight she gave it a great big kiss. :)

Day 341 - Hummingbird

2011-12-07T22:50:00.000-08:00

Day 340 - Joy

2011-12-06T15:46:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I thought I would take a break from posting portraits and actually put some effort into my post for today. I never decorate for Christmas, but now that I have a little girl, I actually want to for her. Are we the only ones that still hasn't gotten our Christmas tree yet?

Day 339 - Is it even legal...

2011-12-05T18:21:00.000-08:00

...to be this adorable?

Day 338 - Family

2011-12-04T21:34:00.000-08:00

A fave from one of the families I shot. (That sounds weird to say that, by the way, but "photographed" sounds even more weird). Anyway, asking teenage boys to even half give me a smile was a bit like pulling teeth but they survived and I made the shoot as quick as I could. :)

Day 337 - Too Much Cuteness!

2011-12-03T19:08:00.000-08:00

I had a total of 8 mini sessions today. This little girl was so funny because she didn't want anything to do with her family pictures but as soon as I sat her next to her brother on the stool she hammed it up for the camera. The little man was just the perfect little model cheesing away.

My favorite client quote of the day: "This is the best photo session ever!" My heart just about burst out of my chest with happiness knowing a client has never enjoyed a photo session as much as they did with me today. Just reminds me why I love being a photographer.

Day 336 - What's Your Story?

2011-12-02T16:44:00.000-08:00

Every time I see a homeless person like this man I wonder what is his story? There's many scenarios that go through my mind. I'm a very curious person (or as my husband says, I'm just nosey). I wouldn't say nosey per se'. I'm just so intrigued to hear people's stories. To hear about their past and what brought them to where they are today. It gives me a whole new outlook and appreciation for people when I hear where they have been. They are more than just a face to me. They become an emotion. I didn't actually talk to this man, but from looking at this picture you would think he was not very happy with me taking his picture. In reality, after he realized I was taking a picture of him, he smiled and told me to have a blessed day.

Typing the title to this gave me an idea. We have all gotten to know each other through the blogging world, but we don't really know each other. What's your story? We all have one. Since I am not doing another 365 project next year, I am looking for other ways to re-direct my blog while still keeping photography as the main focus. I'm curious to know how many of you would be interested in telling your story. Beginning January, I think I may start a weekly or monthly feature telling the story of one of our blogging friends. If you are at all interested send me an e-mail (capturedbymistydawn at yahoo dot com) and I will start lining up features. Depending on the interest will depend on whether I make it a weekly or monthly feature. I will start it out and then start scheduling people after me.

SHOOT. EDIT. SUBMIT.

2011-12-02T00:21:00.000-08:00

Welcome to another week of SHOOT. EDIT. SUBMIT! I apologize for the delay in getting the post up last week. Blogger seems to mess up on me sometimes and even though I have it scheduled to post, it doesn't. The one week I was too tired to stay up till midnight it didn't post, so I will be sure to make sure it posts on time this week.

Anyway....here are our winners for the week!

Pretty Pix

This photo just glows. Not only is the scenery dreamy, but the light and color is fabulous. {Kim}

Seeing Each Day

Gorgeous lighting and absolute amazing clarity especially with such a short DOF. Impressive! {Misty}