Blue in the Stream photography

The Jeep is gone!

2008-06-14T14:11:00.005-04:00

I know, where have we been? Well, Bridget and I were on vacation for a while and then we have been hard at work changing things up around here! There are lots of new things in store...coming VERY soon! But I just wanted to check in to say hi!

It is a sad day around my house today. The end of an era. Max and I bought a Jeep Wrangler when we were first married almost 12 years ago! It was the best southern California car ever! It was the only car we owned for years, and I adored it. It kind of defined our time in San Diego for me, and it brought us cross-country to our new home, Richmond, camping along the way. True, it hasn't gotten a lot of use in the past year or so. All of us can't even fit in it (we are five, and the jeep has room for only four). So we listed it for sale on Craigslist a couple of days ago, and today we said goodbye to that wonderful vehicle! I think it even hesitated a little as its new owner turned the corner and disappeared. That phase of our lives is over and we have gained so much (most of which has to do with three incredible little ones joining our family), but I am a little sad to see the one material remider of that part of my life go: newlywed, navy wife, southern california girl, student, teacher, beach-lounger, smoothie drinker, I could go on and on. Maybe in a few years we'll return to the jeep dealer once again! Until then, farewell, my faithful friend!

For this last one, I used the advice of my talented friend, Carey Schumacher to take this shot. She recommended getting a photo of one of the kids wearing dad's sunglasses with a reflection of the others at one of dad's favorite spots...what better spot than the jeep?!?

I am getting back to work on some of our exciting changes! Can't wait for you to see!

Happy Father's Day tomorrow!!! Take lots of photos:)

-Sarah

Memorial Day

2008-05-26T11:22:00.005-04:00

"...It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us—that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion—that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain—that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom—and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth."

From Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address

-b

bits of sports mania!

2008-05-18T11:52:00.007-04:00

Yesterday we spent literally all day outside...ahh the constant relaxation of moving from one sport to another! (OK so we did spend about 45 minutes relaxing pool side watching the youngsters splash around for the pre-season opening of Nonny and Boppa's pool. brrrr... The true season opener will be in a couple of weeks when Sarah's littles visit! :)

We had two baseball games and a soccer tournament game.

Here is the big D pitching his second game this season. Three innings, several stike outs and only 1 walk!

The G man played catcher for the first time ever. (And as an unbiased mom - I say he rocked!) I think his favorite part may have been between innings when he got to yell the ever famous "balls in, coming down!" to signal the end of the warm up throws and the start of the innings.

Then it was over to the soccer fields...

Look mom - one of my posts that actually has people in it!!

Happy Mothers' Day!!!

2008-05-10T18:07:00.009-04:00

Happy, happy mothers' day to all you moms and grandmas (or Nonnys as we call ours!) and great-grandmas! I got to be pampered by my son at his kindergarten class yesterday morning. It was such a treat. He asked to wear his blazer and tie that day and was so very proud as he left for school! I walked into his classroom to find twenty fancy and excited kindergarteners anxiously awaiting the arrival of all of the moms. The littles had all drawn portraits of us and described us. Their teacher had put together a video of each of the children saying a special message to us. They served us a yummy snack and presented us with a couple of hand-made gifts! It was all so wonderful!!! My little guy said that he woulldn't trade me even for his bed! His teacher had printed up a program and on the cover was the saying, "Mothers hold their children's hands for just a little while, but they hold their children's hearts forever"...bring out the tissues!!! As my son says, 'sometimes my mom cried happy tears"!

In honor of Mother's Day, I wanted to share some images from a recent session of mine. It was a mother-daughter session, and I had so much fun getting to know these two! The mother is just beautiful and her daughter is absolutely ADORABLE, which makes any session easy. But this was an especially fun afternoon. I enjoyed the time I was able to spend with them, but more than that I felt pretty honored to be able to be given the opportuniy to capture these two together. It was obvious that they have a special relationship, and I couldn't stop smiling watching them. That evening as I tucked my daughter into bed, I cuddled up next to her chubby little toddler body and dreamed a little about all of the girly fun we'll have together! I can't wait for afternoons with my daughter like these two shared, so comfortable and happy with each other. Of course, I will miss her chubby little hands and arms encirling my neck and her little body nuzzling into my lap. I will wonder where the nights of cuddling in her bed listening to her sing to me in her little lispy 2 year old voice. I will probably even cry for sassy little hands on the hips and the big wet kisses all over my cheeks. But I am excited about all that is yet to come with her! I adore my boys, and there is something wonderful about my boys' love for their mom, playing the parts of brave knights protecting their queen from the dragon or holding the door open for me in a big boy gentleman sort of way or clearing their dishes with a little bow a smirk and a "here your majesty!" But I'm thankful that I get to be the mommy to my girl too!

Here are some shots from that mother-daughter session:

bits of spring love

2008-05-07T17:03:00.005-04:00

Hi all!

I've been out and about (in my yard) enjoying the fact that I am thawing out. (By the way 2 of my 3 boys have commented on my "warm hands" in the past few days! And you thought I was exaggerating!!)

Isn't there a song about a little rain must fall...onto every bleeding heart bush??? OK, Maybe not! Anyway...

...enjoy a couple of "flora" images from my favorite tree - a flowering crabapple.

may day

2008-04-30T22:17:00.005-04:00

oooohhhh...I love May! My tulips bloom, the sun shines and...

...I finally get warm for the first time since October! You think I'm kidding... My boys know though! They would always squeel when I would change diapers or help them get dressed because my hands would be mere ice cubes with opposable thumbs. "Just wait until May", I would reassure them, "Mommy's hands will be warm then!"

I'm sure that my husband can't wait! I pretty much wear long sleeve JCrew shirts and hooded sweatshirts (yes, with the hood up) all winter whenever I am home. And he's hoping that I'll soon be giving up the long pajama sets (usually with a tshirt underneath and sometimes socks).

Anyway, things are beginning to bloom around here! However, we have spring in Illinois for about 6 days - then it is straight into summer. While it was 32 degrees earlier this week, I'm predicting that within 2 weeks we'll be hitting 85!

New York, New York!

2008-04-21T22:18:00.000-04:00

I feel like I have been about five steps behind where I should be for the past couple of weeks! I have some fun sessions for you to take peek at, but I think I'll save those for later :)

Two weekends ago, I went to New York City with two friends. It was so nice just to spend time with friends and have entire conversations without being interrupted by little voices! Thanks to my awesome brother-in-law, we got to really experience NYC life. He moved to a friend's for the weekend and let us use his place in Gramercy Park. We got to explore his neighborhood as well as SOHO and Times Square without worrying about nap times or eating at a decent hour! I think we ate dinner Friday night at 10! (I know, you're thinking , "Wow! that's wild," snicker, snicker...but to a mom of three littles, the time when I could do that is almos forgotten!). The whole time we were in M&M World on Broadway, I kept thinking about how great it was that I didn't have to chase after three littles in that crazy crowded place.

Saturday, we saw Grease! It was AWESOME!!!!! I can't tell you how excited I was to see it. I love, love, love Grease! It was all I could do not to jump up in my seat and sing along with the actors. It really was a great show! Before the show, we had dinner at Thalia...YUM!!! Then much later after walking around Times Square after the show, we headed back to Gramercy Park and found the coolest bar, Flute. Once we convinced the hostess that we really didn't want to be shoved in the dark, stuffy back corner (nobody puts Baby in a corner!), we enjoyed the music and the people watching (and the shots).

Saturday morning we ate at Friend of a Farmer, and it was delicious! Erin ordered an eggs benedict variation that was so yum, she made me take a photo of it! We were eating outside, and there were two women waiting for a table right there. I overheard one of them whisper disgustedly, "she's taking a picture of the food!" hee hee! TOURISTS!

Check out the sombrero! We did some shopping on Canal Street for purses and bags. You gotta love the bags that can be whatever you want them to be ("I make that Prada for you")!

-S

more bits of Spain

2008-04-15T22:48:00.000-04:00

We finished up our Spanish extravaganza in Barcelona. We found that life has a faster pace there than in our other stops. We enjoyed each place we visited for different reasons!

We visited the Sagrada Familia that was begun by Antoni Gaudi in 1883 and is, to date, unfinished. The expectation for completion is about 50 years - although we heard several jokes that in Spanish-time it will be 75 - 100! It is a site to behold!

We walked along the crowded harbor front that leads to the Mediterranean Sea. We sampled some fantasitic seafood at the famous Pinotxo Bar run by the very entertaining Juan and his family in La Boqueria Market. We spent an afternoon at the Museu Picasso and particularly enjoyed his early works. Below is the Carrer Montcada - the 13th century lane on which the Museu is located.

Best of all we celebrated our son's 12th birthday on our last full day in Spain! We took in a 3D IMAX movie (all in spanish of course), had fabulous Tapas for his birthday dinner, and wandered down Las Ramblas amid the throngs of people, street vendors and street preformers.

hhhmmm...I wonder if this photo counts for Anna's Project Yellow?

It was an amazing trip! I'll be sharing some work from this trip (and a few other trips) in the near future.

bits and quacks!

2008-04-09T10:46:00.001-04:00

Yes! I want to be a part of Anna's project too! So, here is my contribution:

I couldn't resist! My parents brought this little guy to my youngest son the day he was born.

Can't you just hear Ernie singing? "Rubber Ducky, you're the one. You make bathtime lots of fun. Rubber Ducky, I'm awfully fond of you! Woo woo be doo..."

Have a warm yellow day!

Hello Yellow!

2008-04-08T13:33:00.000-04:00

My friend, the very talented Anna Carson, has just launched her Project Yellow campaign. She invited us to join in her fun, and I think I will take her up on it! Anyone else want to join? Leave a comment and I'll stop by and take a look! It is a dreary day here, and I have to say that it was pretty enjoyable looking for something bright and sunny in color. I am ready for warmer weather for sure! Where is the SUN!?!

Enjoy your day!

-S

bits and bows

2008-04-04T14:20:00.000-04:00

Before I add more pictures of Spain, I thought I'd take a bow break!

A mom, Meighan Hopper, in Bloomington has started a new bow business "Mad Lil' Bows" (actually a play on her girls' names)!

She hand sews each of these adorable bows! (Then she heat-seals the ribbon ends so they don't fray.) Meighan has three different clip styles available. Each bow can be sewn with a single pronged alligator clip, double pronged alligator clip or a french clip.

They are all so stylish! I love that duck! Of course the colors in number 9 are outstanding!!

Meighan's website isn't up and running yet. You can send her an email if you'd like to place an order or get more information: meighan.hopper@yahoo.com Mad Lil' bows can also be found at Fox & Hounds in Bloomington!

Congratulations on your new venture Meighan!

bits of SPAIN!

2008-03-31T14:25:00.000-04:00

Wow! Wow! Wow! That about sums up our 9 day tour of Espana! We had such a fantastic time, I barely know how to put it into words! Everything went off without a hitch - all of the planes, trains, metros, and buses were great. The hotels were wonderful, especially the Palacio de los Navas in Granada! And, oh, the historic plazas, cathedrals, streets and palaces - unbelievable!

We visited Madrid and enjoyed the royal palace (one of the largest and most ornate in Europe), the Prado Museum, and the huge Parque del Retiro. On Easter Sunday we attended a wonderful procession in the Plaza Mayor and then (one of the hi-lights for the boys) a bullfight at Plaza de Toros!

We then headed to Granada in southern Spain. I think Granada is my favorite - whitewashed buildings, narrow alley ways, outdoor cafes and Tapas bars, tile roofs, a slower pace complete with traditional "evening strolls", and the stomping grounds of Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand.

Here is an image that my 12 year old captured (well he was still 11 at the time - he turned 12 in Barcelona - what a way to celebrate his birthday!). I think he has the photography gene!

A few things I learned in Spain:

You know you are a long way from home when a sign is printed in 3 languages, none of which is english
Tapas bars rock
Spanish ice cream is really good but it can't quite top Mudpie Mojo
Coca Cola is understood in any language (and by the way it tastes better - sugar instead of corn syrup!)
Serrano ham and cheese sandwiches (bocadillos) are for breakfast
Spainards tend to be short - I blended in (my 6'2" husband did not)
The next time I go I must have a scarf
laminated "Streetwise" maps are a must
Standing with your family at the top of a 750 year old Muslim fortress that was conquered by the Christians in 1492 is awe inspiring!

Barcelona was our last stop - I'll add a few shots from there next time!

Vegas, Baby!

2008-03-25T15:19:00.000-04:00

I promised Vegas photos, and so here they are (just a few days late). I always find it difficult to get back into the routine of everyday life after being away for a while. So i think I'm getting back into it: the laundry pile isn't quite so high (although there's always the ironing pile to tackle), rooms and closets are organized once again, food is in the refrigerator and in the pantry (although the eternal question of "what's for dinner forever confounds me!!!). I still have a mountain of paper from Vegas (magazines, brochures, notes, samples, rep cards, ...) to look through and put somewhere other than my office floor.

I am just so thrilled that I was able to go to the WPPI tradeshow and convention this year! I met some AWESOME people and learned some great things!

I think the best part, though, was hanging out with old friends. When we moved away almost 9 years ago, I was so sad to leave our San Diego friends! But there is something pretty amazing about being able to meet up with friends who we see once a year and feel like we see them all the time! Matt & Terra flew out to Vegas on Saturday. I think Max gave them freedom to just have fun and gamble a little more. "How much did Max lose?!? Oh, well we're not so bad off!" The only other time Max and I have been to Las Vegas was Halloween 1997 or 1998. There were about 7 of us who drove out and spent one night.

We knew Carey from when we lived in San Diego too...even before Mat was born. In fact, that's how I really got to know her. We were all in a Bible study together. Then she was put on bedrest while she was pregnant, and I'd g over and keep her company and fetch her frozen grapes from the freezer. It was pretty cool to see her as the rockstar hotshot photog that she has become! She let Terra and I tag along with her quite a bit. She even introduced us to Steve Sheanin, WPPI CEO! What a nice gentleman!

Ross Tanner of Flosites and his adorable wife, Carey, Steve Sheanin, and me (Terra took the pic)

Carey's photo scored high enough in the judging to be hung in the exhibition! Here she is calling Jason to tell him the news. Hers is the boy throwing up a soccer ball on the beach.

Rockstar!

We listened to Me Ra Koh's talk at the tradeshow, and Max "volunteered" to help her with one of her shoots. Here she is explaining to the other guy and Max that they need to get the bride to giggle! Hee! I was laughing!

Believe it or not I actually did not even take out my camera! I toted my p&s in my sparkly Vegas bag, but the trusty ol' SLR stayed in my room the whole time!! Carey did ask me to take some shots of her platform talk with her camera though. Take a look here

Can't wait until next year's tradeshow!

Thursdays!

2008-03-20T16:42:00.000-04:00

I just got home last night from almost a week in Vegas at the WPPI convention! WOW, was it an awesome time! More on that later, I promise. But today is Thursday, and around here, Thursdays are pretty big. The boys both play Rim Rattlers. The guy who started it did so for his youngest son, who was not old enough to play Upwards basketball like his big brothers. So he thought after not finding any programs in the area for 4 or 5 year olds, he started this four week program. It is great! The main goal is to go over the basic rules and skills of basketball. They practice dribbling and passing and shooting, and on the last week they play a scrimmage. There are about 25 kids in this session. The boys LOVE it! They feel pretty special in their t-shirts and tote their new basketballs everwhere. I constantly hear the thud, thud, thud on the hardwood floors when they can't play outside. The best part for me is to hear those 25 little voices shouting "JESUS!" in the gym in answer to the coach's question "Who loves you?"

I love the tongue out in concentration!

This little thing is pretty good at dribbling!!

After basketball, we head over to Coldstone for some yum yum ice cream! (I was so happy to learn that we could still eat Coldstone after we found out about Prentice's allergies and pretty much everything else was scratched from his diet. Not sure if I could have given up those yummy trips!).

And then after we get the kids tucked into bed, Max and I settle in for an hour's worth of TV perfection...LOST!!!!! And I am particularly excited for tonight's episode! Last week's actually gave us some real clues!!! What do you think is going to happen?!? What the heck are those people really on the island for? What happened to Jin?

bits of travel

2008-03-17T09:39:00.000-04:00

The days are flying by! We are in the middle of traveling and preparing for travel! Sarah is having a great time right now out at the WPPI Tradeshow and Convention! She is learning all sorts of fabulous things for all of you who love blue in the stream! We can't wait to share!

I am getting ready for a trip to Spain over our spring break! It will be a first trip overseas for 2 of our sons. (Greg took our middle son to Japan last spring.) We have not been to Spain before. I am so looking forward to spending time together exploring! I am also without a doubt looking forward to the amazing photography opportunities! I hope to bring you a few little pieces of the rich history of the country.

There is so much that we will be sharing with you in the coming weeks!

B

sunshine

2008-03-06T12:58:00.000-05:00

I am so ready for winter to be OVER!!! We have had a few little teasers of spring, and I am just dying to open all of the windows in my house! Monday was a beautiful day: 70 and sunshine-y. I didn't have anything on the calendar, so after we dropped the boys off at school, little red and I spent the morning frolicking. She was pretty insistent on wearing her "princess skirt," and everywhere we went, she twirled for anyone who would give her attention. So I had to get out my camera. We had an unusally slow morning! It was wonderful! After taking some photos, we leisurely enjoyed a bagel together. And on the way to pick up P from preschool, we drove the whole way with the windows DOWN!!!

bits of spring ??

2008-03-03T20:05:00.000-05:00

ahhh spring...

OK - so I actually took these images LAST spring.

While the snow has melted (although we could get another 3-5" by tomorrow afternoon) it was worse today - cold, grey, and rainy! The boys were home from school - Casmir Pulaski day and all (never heard of him? Niether had we until a few years ago when the IL congress declared a state holiday to honor him!). We were just lazy and played inside all day!

Anyway, the real reason I was thinking spring thoughts is because blue in the stream is "growing" a new and improved "look". We are working with a friend to get everything just right and we are thrilled!

So, over the next few weeks as those flowers really do begin blooming so will our blog, website and all things blue! Keep watching!

bits of Richmond

2008-02-20T22:31:00.000-05:00

When we first moved to Richmond, I was excited to get back to the seasons. We had lived in San Diego for a few years while Max was in the Navy, and it was absolutely perfect! I mean, really, just gorgeous! We pretty much just lived outside. But I did miss the changing of the seasons a little. And let me tell you that fall in Virginia is beautiul! The trees turn golden and flaming red at the same time. Winter turns the sky this amazing crisp blue. But I soon learned that winter is a crazy season here. At first, I was just annoyed (heck I wasn't living in San Diego anymore, pretty much everything was annoying), but I have grown to actually like it. For example, Monday was Presidents' Day, so school was out. It couldn't have been timed more perfectly. It had to be almost 80 degrees with a light breeze and wonderfully warm bright sunshine. We spent the entire day outside. At about 5:30, the wind really picked up. And all of the sudden, goosebumps pop up all up and down my arms: it's cold! Well, Tuesday morning I could see my breath!!! Yikes! Crazy! The weather channel is now my intimate friend. Do I send my boys to school in shorts or in winter parkas?!? Who knows!

I also love the history here. The buildings themselves have stories to tell...

Have a great day!
-s

bits of Valentines

2008-02-14T15:56:00.000-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

We wish joy for you and all of the ones you love!

-b

Winter BitS

2008-02-09T18:05:00.000-05:00

On cold and windy wintery days I enjoy hot chocolate (I've never been a coffee drinker - love the smell, just not the taste), wrapping up in my new favorite blanket and reading a good book. OK, as if I actually had the time to enjoy all three (or even 2) simultaneously! If I get time for 10 minutes with one, I consider it a good day! We are usually too busy going to/from soccer practices, basket ball games, chuch activities, and cub scouts.

However, since I have been spending more time inside the house lately, I started looking around at things that bring me joy (aside from my family) no matter the weather. Here are a couple:

While I am not trying to speed my life up any (believe me it is flying by as it is), spending time inside does makes me dream about spring!

-b

A Love Collection

2008-02-05T18:43:00.000-05:00

It should be obvious by now that my sister and I have an innate love of photography. But what is lesser known is my love of photography equipment. It all began when I received our grandparents’ Argus A3 manufactured in Ann Arbor, MI between 1940 and 1942. (They were both born and raised in the Ann Arbor area. In fact the house that our grandmother was born in was sold in 1950 to Argus and was torn down to make way for a lens factory!) From a historical standpoint the Argus model ‘A’s were an immediate success as they were the first low-cost, easy to use 35mm film camera in the world. (It is said that the popularity of the A model influenced Kodak to switch their film manufacturing to the 35mm format.) From a personal (and, to me, more significant) standpoint I now have the very instrument that captured so many “blue in the stream” moments in my family’s history!

Over the years my collection has grown. I now have a couple of early poloroids, a canon, and a 3m revere automatic. Another of my favorites is my mother-in-law’s 1954 Brownie Hawkeye with which she captured parts of her life when she was young.

Last year I received the best birthday gift since the engagement ring my husband gave me almost 16 years ago. My parents gave me a Graflex Crown Graphic (the lens is a ’48 and the body is circa ‘56) that mom found in a hat store (go figure) in Puerto Rico!

That model was the “crown” jewel of press cameras in its day. The case and accessories are almost as cool as the camera itself. The latest addition to my ever expanding collection is the Agfa Karat that my father-in-law purchased at the US Army PX in Orleans, France in 1957.

I love them all (the cameras and the people)! I still have a few more shelves to fill in our office/library so my collecting days are not over yet! Hopefully someday our grandchildren will be as interested in the cameras that we use and more importantly the photographs that we make with them.

-b

Frames.

2008-01-30T13:32:00.000-05:00

A friend of mine makes these awesome frames, and I wanted to show them to you. I think this one is a 5x7 opening. She uses ribbon for hanging the frame. She showed me a bunch that she was making right before Christmas for teacher gifts and gifts for friends. I think it is a bit difficult to see the gorgeous detail in the top left of the corner, but you can probably get the gist. isn't it just beautiful?!? If you are interested in talking to her about a frame, drop me a line or leave a comment and I will email you her information!

-S

I just can't resist...

2008-01-22T21:50:00.000-05:00

those eyes! She is such a stinker some times, but she really knows how to get out of trouble!!! Is it just me, or is the third one always more difficult to be stern with? I swear I giggle at her when I should be correcting her more often than I did with the boys at this age. But then again, I don't think the boys ever got into this much mischief!! Just look at those eyes; you can tell she's mischief, huh? Here comes trouble!

Boy is she fun to have around though! Her big brothers can't even stay mad at her for long. Have a happy day!

-S

Brother,

2008-01-22T13:45:00.000-05:00

I saw this quote on a wall hanging offered in a catalogue (http://www.kookoobearkids.com/) and immediately thought of this image of two brothers I took recently.

"With you as my brother, the baseballs flew further, the rocks skipped forever, and the stars didn't seem so far away."

They are the sweetest boys! I got such a kick out of watching the two of them together. I could tell just in the hour I spent with them how fond they were of each other! It was really incredible. I know I say this a lot, but I had an awesome time with the whole family! It was a pretty chilly afternoon, but we did some walking (and running, of course) to keep us warm. We couldn't have been luckier; as soon as I shot the last photos, the rain started coming down! That's twice in the past couple of months that the rain has held out just long enough!

I really love the time I spend with my clients. I am so fortunate! Even though it's FREEZING today, I'm feeling all warwm and fuzzy just thinking about the fun I get to have! THANKS to all of my clients; and I can't wait to meet my upcoming clients!!!! What an exciting year this is going to be!
-S

Albums!

2008-01-11T18:56:00.000-05:00

I am so excited about the albums we are offering! They are so cool! the 12x12 Gallery album with a canvas cover is so unelievably beautiful! The cover is a canvas image of your choosing, and WOW is it breath-taking! The 20 images inside are 8x10 in size and matted in either black or white. Here is an example of one we had done:

The Acrylic Album is so fun! It comes in 12x12 or 9x9. The cover is clear acrylic, so one can see right through to the image on the first page. Like the Gallery Album, the 20 images inside are matted in either black or white. In the 12x12 album, image sizes are 8x10, and in the 9x9 album, images are 5x7. I love this one because it is so whimscal! Here's our sample in the 9x9:

We also offer a 5x7 album with 20 5x7 images mounted right onto each page so it sports a flush-mount look. Pages can be either black or white. The covers are just gorgeous. This one is the brocade sultan spice:

There are just so many hot covers to choose from in the 5x7 Elements album, so we put together a sampling of them. We also have swatches, so if you want to come by to see and feel them in person, give us a call!

Silks:

Brocade Silks:

These next two are tone on tone textures:

Suede-like fabrics:

Eclectic and fun!

Family of 9...whew!

2008-01-08T09:01:00.001-05:00

Right before we left for Illinois for Christmas, I had a session with a family of 9! Most of them were visiting from Texas for Christmas. It was a grey, chilly day. It couldn't have been more fun though! I had met the older two a couple of times before, but I had such a good time getting to know them better! I was able to talk to just them while I stuck the camera in their faces. I was really charmed! And the littlest little was just adorable; making us all laugh as she ran up and down, up and down the ramp. Because I don't usually photograph such large families, I was a bit nervous. But it was just so fun for me to see them interact.

Thanks for the opportunity to spend some time with your family, J & B! I hope you had a wonderful Christmas and everyone had safe travels back to Texas!

-S

Don't look Nonny!

2008-01-04T14:53:00.000-05:00

Our little Pick is so light, that one of Max's favorite thing to do (and P's too) is throw him up into the air. At halftime of the Michigan game on New Year's day, Max told me to try to get a pic of him. My first attempt at the throw-em-up-and-photograph-em (Carey style) was this:

I have to say, he really does fly!

Here is the crazy cousin lineup on Christmas morning.

AJ, the little princess.

Nonny & Boppa with P. Nonny and P have this mutual unconditional, absolute adoration of each other. He tells me at least 3 times a day (really, every day) that he misses his Nonny. He throws in Boppa at least once a day for good measure ;)

-S

Happy New Year!

2007-12-30T14:10:00.000-05:00

We so cherished our Christmas together...the family dozen, candy, laughter, delicious meals, "snappers" and "crackers", games, photographs, toys, Christmas Eve Services, hide and seek, jokes, more candy, "happy birthday baby Jesus", gifts, nerf wars, cookies, books, prayers, more photographs, boxes, the Wii, packages, joy, chaos, things lost...and found, more delicious meals, the "cousin hike", ice cream, lottery tickets, and goals for the new year...

As you begin the new year, we hope that you carry the joy and love of Jesus' birth with you in your heart.

The Look

2007-12-18T21:09:00.000-05:00

I had such fun with these brothers! They were all about having fun! Right from the beginning, the little one was ready for me to start shooting some images. He'd be chatting away, and as soon as I lifted my camera, he'd give me "The Look." You know "The Look":

It took a little longer for his brother to warm up. He wasn't sure just how much of his Saturday morning I was going to take up. By the end, we were racing, and he was telling me where to take the next shot, and I even got a hug from him at the end! The best ending to a fun session!!

My Favorite Alley

2007-12-17T22:24:00.000-05:00

I have a favorite alley...that really sounds quite weird, but it's true! I love it. I mean I really love it! I love the color; I love the light; I love the passion and the fun...it's just perfect! Every time I go down there, I come back with an image that has a different feel. It's not all that attractive in real life. I think most parents probably think I'm crazy for taking their littles to this place, where weekend nights leave it littered and lonely as the sun rises. But as the sun warms it crooked and broken cobblestones, it comes to life and shines just for us! I know, I know...it's just an alley.

December snow

2007-12-09T22:39:00.000-05:00

Snow in December is almost unheard of in Virginia. I can't remember the last time it snowed in December here. I grew up in central Illinois and went to school in Michigan, so I'm no stranger to snowy Decembers, but here we're lucky if we get snow before mid-January! So the boys have been telling me over and over how much they want it to snow; they can't wait to have a snowball fight. Well last Wednesday they got their wish! It snowed almost all morning. Big fluffy white flakes falling gently all around us. Of course it was all melted by mid-afternoon. The boys were in school; they told me they only got to watch it from the windows. But A got a chance to play a little before it melted. At first she wasn't so sure how she felt about it hitting her face, but she got excited about it and then didn't want to come inside. Tomorrow it's supposed to be 75 here!!! Crazy Virginia weather!

Also I wanted to show a canvas that I just delivered to a client. I love the gallery wrap canvas. They are just beautiful, and they come ready to hang!

Whatever you do, don't smile...!

2007-11-29T15:09:00.000-05:00

This guy is one of the smiley-est (is that a word?) boys I've ever met! Even trying not to smile made him giggle!

The leaves were absolutely gorgeous! I love Virginia autumns! It was a little chilly, but we had some fun once our fingers warmed up a bit.

It's starting to get even colder, and I can feel winter fast approaching. I love this time of year, though!

-S

Yikes! Where have the days gone?

2007-11-28T13:54:00.000-05:00

I feel like I was just here, and yet I haven't posted anything from my recent sessions. And I know you want to see some sneak peeks:) I have been so lucky; really I must be the most fortunate photographer in Richmond, maybe in all of Virginia! I have had such a great time with all of my clients! How can I not get beautiful images with these adorable littles in front of the camera?!? And just wait because I have lots more to show...check back tomorrow! You won't be disappointed!

-S

Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-11-21T08:56:00.000-05:00

"In the name of God, Amen...Having undertaken, for the Glory of God and advancement of the Christian Faith and Honour of our King and Country, a Voyage to plant the First Colony in the Northern Parts of Virginia, do by these presents solemnly and mutually in the presence of God and one of another, Covenant and Combine ourselves together into a Civil Body Politic, for our better ordering and preservation and furtherance of the ends aforesaid; and by virtue hereof to enact, constitute and frame such just and equal Laws, Ordinances, Acts, Constitutions and Offices, from time to time, as shall be thought most meet and convenient for the general good of the Colony, unto which we promise all due submission and obedience. In witness whereof we have hereunder subscribed our names at Cape Cod, the 11th of November, in the year of the reign of our Sovereign Lord King James, of England, France and Ireland the eighteenth, and of Scotland the fifty-fourth. Anno Domini 1620." (The Mayflower Compact)

387 years ago a group of the 102 passengers of the Mayflower wrote a covenant that would become known as the "Mayflower Compact". They had reached a harbor near what is now Massachusetts. They were ending their long voyage but just beginning their journey! After a difficult year, during which many did not survive, the pilgrims made time to remember their blessings, join with family and new friends, and give thanks to God!

Our great-great-grandparents

William and Sarah Perkins

While our ancestors did not arrive on the Mayflower, they also knew the true meaning of working hard, loving family, and giving thanks to God! We are thankful that they shared their story! We do our best to follow in their footsteps!

We wish you a joyous Thanksgiving!

Thomas Jefferson lived here!

2007-11-12T13:44:00.001-05:00

Check out this gorgeous place! Thomas Jefferson spent several years as a young boy here at the Tuckahoe Plantation. I took a client there Sunday, and it was just perfect. It was pretty amazing to watch these two run around on the same ground where our third president and founder of our country ran around as a child!

okay, the eyes always get me!

2007-11-03T15:58:00.000-04:00

The eyes on this little guy are incredible!!! The session was perfect too! It hadn't rained in months here (literally), and of course it was forecasted to rain the day of this little's shoot. It was overcast that morning, but didn't cause any problems. And, no kidding, just as we were packing up our things, the winds started to pick up. And no more than three minutes after I get into my car, the rain began! It rained for three straight days! Amazing!

Look how lucky I am!

2007-10-28T22:26:00.000-04:00

I tell ya, I have been seeing the cutest eyes through my lens lately! Big, gorgeous eyes - a photographer's dream!!! Check out the eyes on this heartthrob!

oh so cute

2007-10-27T21:30:00.000-04:00

I just had to share a photo from a recent session. Check out this sweet little thing!

And he is so lucky, because he has such a sweet big brother too!!! Could life get much better for a little guy?

Fun in Chicago

2007-10-23T14:31:00.000-04:00

Wow! We had an awesome time at Audrey Woulard's workshop in Chicago! I am still on such a high from it all! Not only was Audey inspiring and awesome, but all of the other photographers were incredible too! Could I use any more exclamation points?!? I came away more knowledgable and extremely encouraged! Thanks Audrey, for a wonderful two days in your ROCKIN studio. And thanks to all of my fellow photogs who shared their experiences too! I wish all of you the best, and I hope to see you soon around the photography world:)

Here is Audrey workin' her magic with one of the models:

And take a peek at the absolute dolls we were able to shoot alongside Audrey:

Here is a shot of part of the group capturing one of our gorgeous models:

Coincidence?

2007-10-17T15:08:00.000-04:00

Sarah and I were in Chicago this week. (I‘m sure she will soon be sharing details of the fabulous workshop that she attended.) Here's the beautiful Fourth Presbyterian Church of Chicago:

Today, I accompanied my parents to the airport to see Sarah off as she headed back to Richmond. I left the airport before my parents and was headed to the parking lot when I caught sight of a late 20’s-ish, girl with gorgeous red hair. I was imagining that my very red-headed niece might look like this girl in the not all that distant future. So I smiled at her. She smiled at me and then somewhat hesitantly called “Are you by any chance headed near the train station?” I told her I wasn’t but asked what she needed. She told me that she had come from South Dakota and needed to get downtown to catch a train to Springfield. Her grandfather is in the hospital and she is trying to see him one last time.

I had what we refer to around here as a “God moment”. Two years ago this very week, our parents flew Sarah, her daughter and me to Michigan to do the same thing. I told the girl I was definitely taking her to the train station! When we got into the van, she realized that we hadn’t even introduced ourselves. She gave me a big smile, shook my hand and said, “Hi, I’m Sarah!”

I had to giggle! I am so intrigued by the way in which God works! Sarah and I pretty much covered our recent life stories in the 12 minute ride. I wish her all the best in getting to her grandfather and in her life’s work in South Dakota!

If you are ever in the Brookings area, maybe you can stop in and see the “other Sarah” at cottonwood coffee (http://www.cottonwoodcoffee.com)!

Christmas Card Insert Sets

2007-10-08T14:16:00.000-04:00

If you prefer not to purchase our Christmas card templates, but still want to include a photo from your session in Christmas cards to friends and family, then you'll want to read this post! We are going to offer sets of 4x6 prints (all prints will be the same image) that you can just slip into your own card.

*set of 25 4x6 prints (same image on all) for $45
*set of 50 4x6 prints (same image) for $75
*set of 100 4x6 prints (same image) for $125

**5% Virginia state sales tax will be added to all orders.

Welcome Home!

2007-10-06T09:53:00.000-04:00

In June of 2006 the National Guard’s 33rd Military Police Battalion was deployed to Iraq. Hundreds lined the streets, flags in hand, to give them a proper send off. Last week, flags flying and porch lights on, we were thrilled to welcome them all home! Hundreds of school children, business people, and families lined the streets to thank our hometown heroes.

Thank you 33rd for your service!

Our deepest gratitude goes to all the men and women who keep us safe and protect democracy throughout the world. They make it possible for us to do what we do every day!

My Big Sister

2007-10-03T14:45:00.000-04:00

Some of you may know me, but not my sister, Bridget. She is my big sister, and the family joke is that she has always been my second mother (not so funny to me at times growing up). She has always been a pretty great sis (except for those couple of times when she hauled off and whaked me one, because I certainly was never bratty enough to warrant that!). She'd let me tag along with her when she and friends would go to the mall. Pretty cool of a big sister in middle school. The great thing is that while I have always loved her, the older I got the more I really liked her too. She was always reliable. I knew that I could ask her for help or advice (or clothes) any time. We weren't all that much alike when we were kids. She'd rather climb the tree in our backyard, while I'd dress my Barbie dolls in the latest fashion (or the cat). Our mom once asked her to run into the grocery store to return some milk that had a bad date. She refused. I, all of 6 or 7 years old, told her I'd go in with her and do the talking. She didn't get a speeding ticket until she was in her 30's (and wow did that one make up for all of her taunting!), while I got three tickets in just one summer of high school. Not that I'm proud of that; I was grounded FOREVER! Anyway, my point is that we were a little different as girls. But I always knew she was there if I needed her. She was my go-to gal for all of my new mommy questions. She once told me that the hard thing about being a mom is that there are moments you think you will never forget, but after time some of those clear memories fade. I look at my kindergartener now and try to picture his chubby baby face. Sometimes I can clearly see that wide smile and those laughing eyes, but sometimes I just see his freckly 5 year old face. There are moments that I am convinced I will never forget: the first night that my 2nd son was born when the nurses brought little P in to eat. It was around midnight, and the hospital was so quiet. The only light in the room was coming from the slightly opened bathroom door. He had just had a bath, and he was wide awake, searching my face with his shiny dark, dark eyes. His fuzzy hair was standing straight up, and it was so soft on my cheek. We were so content, just being together. I look at his big dark eyes now, and I think to myself, "don't ever forget that moment!"

I've gone on a tangent! Back to my awesome big sister! Here she is:

Isn't she cute? I just love the look on Mom's face in this one. And then there's is this one from her first day of kindergarten. Nice pants, Bridge! And yep, that's new baby me.

and here she is from last August, with her trusty Nikon (I, myself, am a Canon girl through and through!)

So, hopfully she doesn't mind the pictures. If she does, you won't see them long:)

Welcome to the Stream!!!!

2007-09-30T00:09:00.000-04:00

Welcome to our blog!

We're happy you're here! Leave us some lovin' to let us know you stopped by!