The Nelson Gaggle

Happy Summer!

2011-07-25T11:26:00.005-04:00

Yes its been a while since I posted to this poor neglected family blog. Things are going well this summer. Project Build-New-House is still moving right along. As of this week we have all inspections complete for the framing and inside wiring/plumbing and insulation is to begin now.

Here are shots of what its shaping up to look like:

The kids are doing well and growing up too fast. Last month, for the last day of school, I thought I would do a comparison of them from their first day. While I can no longer shoot on our old deck you can still see how big they have gotten this year!

Another fun past time of the summer while visiting our new property is toad hunting. No worries, no toads were harmed while chasing them with our little fingers.

We've had three birthday's since I last posted too.

Miss E turned 6 in March.

Miss V turned 4 in May.

And Mr Z turned 9 earlier this month.

He is also playing in a summer baseball league and loving every minute of it.

And he's riding his bike all by himself with no training wheels. :)

We also just got back from our first camping trip the the beach.

I hope everyone has a great August and I will be sure to post more house updates once we have some siding on. It will be great to see something other than that drab blue!

Cooking with Daddy

2011-01-12T20:36:00.003-05:00

This little one loves to be a big helper in the kitchen. Tonight she made biscuits on her Daddy's birthday.

They were yummy too. :)

Budding Artist

2011-01-05T20:15:00.002-05:00

This is her favorite thing, art. Drawing, painting coloring, she loves it all. She is super excited to be starting her first after school art class this month.

Of course, I think she is super talented myself. :)

The Start of a New School Year

2010-08-30T11:22:00.007-04:00

Just some snaps of the kiddos starting off the new school year.

Of course Miss E is the most excited to start Kindergarten. (sniff)

Some Camping Randomness

2010-08-03T20:49:00.005-04:00

Had another great weekend in the woods. The girls were having fun scooping up rocks. Why do they love rocks so?

Donut face.

Stealing some food and giving me that face.

Then we got to launch some of the rockets that Zach built.

This one was almost lost but luckily the nice 90-year old woman let us borrow a rake to get it off of her roof. Next time, we will make sure we go to a larger park.

Two Wiggly Teeth

2010-07-21T14:06:00.002-04:00

I love it when the kids start to loose their baby teeth. They just look so super cute. My daughter has two really wiggly ones right now and she is dying to write her special note to the Tooth Fairy but is still too scared to have us help her pull these two out. I think she should pull them both at the same time because the Tooth Fairy gives extra money for two teeth at once!

Another Birthday Post

2010-07-15T07:47:00.009-04:00

Eight years. Everyone always says that the time goes fast and boy they are right.

My first born is such a sweet boy. He is so caring and warm and fun. I hope he keeps those qualities as he makes his way into teen-hood.

My original idea for his birthday shoot was him and his guitar. We had been so busy that we hadn't gotten around to getting the kid a hair cut so I left his cute little curls long for these.

He wants lessons on how to play. He loves all things music.

The obligatory 'rocker' pose.

The very next day we return home from the weekend of camping and he asks to finally get a hair cut. So I take him over to the barber and we wait 20 min before his name is called. Meanwhile he is focused on another customer getting his hair cut. He whispered to me, "Look mom, he has a mo-hawk". I could tell he was very excited and giggly at the thought. I asked him if he was interested in getting his hair cut in the same way. I think he was surprised that I was even considering it and then even more surprised when I let him go through with it.

I have to admit, I was a little gun shy at first but its super cute on him. :)

Can I just say that its super hard to get a good shot of a mo-hawk!

And here is the back

I want to wish him another wonderful year full of learning, friends, fun and family. Happy Happy Birthday to my not-so-little Man!

And just for prosperity, a cutie baby picture.

The Fourth

2010-07-09T08:06:00.005-04:00

Camping for the Fourth is becoming a yearly tradition. This holiday falls near my son's birthday and this year he picked his favorite place to spend our weekend. He had a great time playing in the pool and going down the water slides. Also playing basketball.

Then a quick snap of these two together..giggling.

This dragonfly hung out with us for the afternoon. I guess he liked our company.

I was told that this dress would be worn on the 4th so I then made her pose for me. She made a special 4th of July, sea shell sand art to go with and made sure I captured it as well.

She had to show me her teddy bear sand art as well.

And then this new face. What's that about??

Another great weekend.

Father's Day Weekend

2010-06-21T09:45:00.005-04:00

Of course we went camping! What fun we had splashing around the pool and the water slides and playing on the playground.

Hanging at the camper, playing with our new Father's Day Present (a new phone).

Getting hugs.

Then a fun game of laser tag with the baby as a shield. :)

E thought it was super fun to shoot Daddy.

Z loved it too.

Then Sunday a nice BBQ and a game of Frisbee.

We love you Daddy!

THREE

2010-05-18T09:12:00.002-04:00

My baby girlie is three today. She is truly my mini-me in all aspects. I honestly don't know where she gets her temper and stubbornness from. :)

And here is a little slideshow that I put together to celebrate these wonderful three years.

Happy Birthday Miss V!

GOOOOOOAAAAAAAL Day 2010

2010-05-04T10:11:00.048-04:00

This is a post about me. I am putting off sharing lovely pictures of the ever-so-cute kiddos to talk about something different today.

At the end of last summer, after graduating from school, I decided I wanted to set a new goal for myself. Running. It is something that has been on my mind for quite a while but for some reason (maybe work, three kids and school) I couldn't find the time to really attempt to start working on this.

After one of those time-suckers was over, I thought now would be a great time to get to work on something that has been on my to-do list for years...learning to run.

I challenged myself to be able to run an entire 5K by today - My Birthday, which is now known as "Goal Day 2010".

Yes I had done aerobics in the past and even started the C25K program but never finished it. So this time I set my own program. With the help of a new iPod, Nike+ and some new, shoes I set off.

I started off really really slow. Alternating walking and running both indoors and outside before it got too dark in the evenings. My personal trainer (i.e. mystery voice on the iPod) was very encouraging.

In the fall I had a set back and had to stop training for a little while. My dentist found a bad tooth and I had to have it removed. That was really un-fun. It took longer than I expected to feel 100% better and by that time...well the Holidays were upon us and I had no will power. BUT...

I picked up my routine in January by setting a 5 day a week workout schedule and combined that with tracking all of my calories using Livestrong's My Plate - which is a free site and so easy to use.

Most of my runs were indoors on my trusty 10 year old (Valentine's Day Present) treadmill. Its a very bare basic model but it does the trick. On the rare occasion that it would be nice out, I would run outside on my street.

Running outside is both beautiful and difficult. My road is VERY hilly. It makes training much harder. There are a few smaller hills and one crazy large one that I have named "Crazy Large Churchill" since at the fork there is a Church and cross street. My expert hubby thinks that the grade of this hill is only 5% but I beg to differ - I say its more like 20%. :) Well, at least it feels that way when I run up it. But luckily I get to turn back around and run down "Churchill".

At first I was only able to walk up and run down the hills but as time went on I started to be able to run both. My Nike+ run looked like a Heart Rate Monitor with large valleys and peaks.

One other problem with running outside is the yappy neighbor dog who loves to run after me when I pass by his house. He comes all the way into the road to show me just how many teeth he has. Now granted he isn't much bigger than Benji, but he sure looks mean. That's one way to get me to pick up the pace.

One important lesson I learned is the need to recalibrate my Nike+ application often. I was getting awesome readings around March thinking I was really rocking my runs but in reality, it was my Nike+ giving me more credit that I deserved. Once I re-calibrated, I realized that I still had work to do.

After the reality set in and the depression wore off, I continued my runs in an effort to get faster and run longer. I mapped out a better road course and started trusting in my readings on my treadmill a little more until finally I was able to run the entire course.

As with anything some days are better and faster than others but in general I can now run the entire 5K and sometimes even further.

As a little treat to myself I decided to visit the UA outlet store and get me some new gear. My so-called running attire was quite old hand me downs and I needed a little styling.

Here is me on Sunday sporting my new goods. Yeah I look like a goober with swollen hands and red face. Now that it is summer-like I need to condition myself to run in the heat.

Oh and I haven't even mentioned the best part yet, I have lost just over 15 lbs since Jan. I also dropped a couple of dress sizes and I needed to buy a new swimsuit for the beach this summer.

I have to say I am excited about that part too.

I also have my eye on a real 5K race the first weekend in June. I haven't officially registered for it yet but I think I am going to go for it and see if I can finish the entire course. I still have time to change my mind though.

Ok so if you are done listening to me TOOT my own horn for now then feel free to sign off. Or if you are hanging in there listing to my.every.word then you will love this next part entitled:

****Running with Camera: Taking you With Me****

I took the ole' trusty P&S on a run with me this afternoon. I have often wished that I could photograph my runs as I do them because the scenery is so nice so today I did just that.

(I kept these small to save your bandwidth but you can click if you would like to see them larger)

Setting off here's me:

At the bottom of my driveway is where I begin my run. I like to start here since my driveway is quite steep. I don't like to run back up it. :)

A view from my head. (yes these are blurry, its hard to take photos and run at the same time)

The first hill

Here I am at the bottom of Mr. Churchill. Ok, so maybe it looks wimpy in this photo but trust me is a killer hill (that you can't see cause the road curves around....trust me :) ).

Here is the Church/School at the top of Killer Churchill. Isn't it a gorgeous day! I'm almost to the top.

Made it to the top at the intersection. Now to cross the road....

Just me and my shadow.

I pass by this lovely farm that I always wish I had my camera to capture. In the distance is our local cell tower which is extremely important to us, of course since this is our only way of communicating with the internets. Look at the beautiful fluffy clouds. One day I will bring MarkII out here but he is way to heavy to run with.

This is where I turn around and head back, just before the sidewalk ends. OK the shoulder.

I stop and say the Pledge. No..not really.

Then I run across the bridge over troubled highways and sing.

I love being on the bridge, it makes me feel real tall.

Right after I took this, the tractor trailer all the way on the left honked at me. Woot! Thanks.

More than half way through I start my descent down Lovely Churchill which is so much nicer in this direction. Again, lovely clouds.

Passed one hill and getting ready for the last. Standing..I mean running in the middle of the road with headphones may not be the brightest thing in the world. But it makes for a dramatic shot.

A larger view.

The final curve. My driveway is at the bend. I can see the end...woo.

All done and back at the driveway.

Pretty honeysuckles.

Race results. As you can see I did this in 40min. Now this was a little slower than my normal pace as I was distracted with my camera. But still its decent for me. I also have trouble turning off the iPod and often it still counts time after I stop running. Yes I am making excuses. But I am trying to better my time closer to 35 min instead of 40.

Well, thanks for joining me today on Goal Day 2010 - for all those who are still awake out there.

I am pleased that I have been working on this goal and I am glad that I have been doing this for me.

Now...for my next goal____________ (fill in the blank).

A Beautiful Weekend for Fishing

2010-05-03T11:08:00.004-04:00

Another cub scouts event to blog about, the annual fishing derby. What that actually means, I still haven't figured out, but I do know that the boys had a lot of fun fishing at the local farm lake which was stocked with lots to catch.

My hubby calls this "fishing in a barrel". Luckily for my son the fish were hungry and he caught a total of 8 fish in 2 hours.

Fish #1

Girlie getting a lesson from her daddy.

Fish caught by the hubby.

Who got quite anxious when released back into the lake.

Proper girlie fishing attire, bright flower dress.

The big catch of the day. 14.5"

I don't wanna fish, just sit here and look pretty.

Mom: "Hey look at me for a sec, I wanna see your shades"
Z: "Who me??"

Fish # (?)

A rest on a blanket in the shade.

Proud Pop-pop using the kiddie rod. :)

Our family total was 21 fish. I even caught one when I got handed a rod to hold while the men were busy untangling a line. I have no idea who 'won' the derby but we at least had a beautiful day to hang out by the lake.

Oh How I Love Spring

2010-04-17T15:19:00.004-04:00

Let me count the...photos...

10.

Yup that last one is a shot of my girl, had to end on an even number. :)

A New York State of Mind

2010-04-13T12:16:00.009-04:00

My son has been talking about going to NYC for about 6 months now. He was very interested in seeing the Statue of Liberty and Time's Square. He really likes to be able to stay up late each New Year's Eve and watch the ball drop and he was very interested in seeing that in person.

So for his spring break we decided to take him to the big city for a little mini-cation. He had a blast staying in a hotel, riding the train and subway and seeing all the NYC landmarks.

We started off the trip in NJ getting on the Ferry to see Lady Liberty and Ellis Island.

We got to tour the pedestal inside of the statue and was able to see how the making of the Big Lady. It was a ton of steps UP but it was worth the trip. Not to mention it was great for a new vantage point of her.

The next day we started off with wonderful donuts from The Donut Plant and set off for Time's Square. My son was all giddy when he spotted the New Year's Eve Ball.

(this shot taken by the little man who grabbed my camera after spotting this famous landmark)

From there we took him to the Intrepid Air, Space and Sea Museum. He was enjoying being on the aircraft carrier and looking at the planes, touring the sub and seeing the Concorde.

Our last day in the city was started off with a batch of NYC bagels, onion and salt with PB for my son. After a subway trip this is where we wound up:

So he could play with this:

Then another subway trip to the Village to meet up with my cousin who lives near by. We had a great lunch and then took in some street performers.

It was a wonderful break spending it with our son. He is already talking about the next time we plan to visit the city.

Awards - Yup more from the Pinewood Derby

2010-03-28T20:41:00.006-04:00

I had to post about the award ceremony from the Pinewood Derby that happened this Friday night. My son was all excited to be apart of receiving his very first trophy.

Here they are all lined up and pretty. Each participant received the small gold ones, the star trophies went to the open class and the three talls went to the three overall winners. Zach won a red ribbon for taking 2nd place in his Den, a small trophy for participating and the third smallest for his 3rd place win in the Pack.

Had some fun playing with the beautiful shiny things all lined up in a row.

A shot of the princess cheering on her big brother.

And here is the awesome 3rd place trophy. We are so very proud of him and the car he designed and how he was such a good sport about it all.

We found a nice spot for it in our dining room but it barely fit. Its really quite tall! He wasn't sure he loved it there because what if next year he does better and wins a taller one? Where would it fit?!?! So we moved it to the kitchen with plenty of room to display a possibly taller one in the future. :)

And by the end of the night usually one of our kids sheds some tears. We never know who its going to be but this night, it was Miss V. She was upset that she got her paper airplane snatched from her by one of the boys doing an airplane fight activity. Daddy tried to understand exactly how she wanted us to fix it. Instead of helping, I captured the moment, as a good mommy.

A Spring Weekend

2010-03-20T21:07:00.004-04:00

This is what we think of the first weekend of Spring after that long, snowy winter.

Learning to Swim

2010-03-17T20:33:00.003-04:00

My 7 year old has been timid of the water for as long as I can remember. This year he is finally breaking out of that shell and taking another round of lessons. Now that the time change has brought us some much needed evening light, I brought my camera to the lesson.

My son sporting his sister's pink goggles this week after loosing his at the pool last week.

Kick kick kick.

And of course the obligatory goofing off and not listening to the teacher. ((sigh))

The Tooth Trio

2010-03-09T20:36:00.001-05:00

Aren't they cute?

I got a chance to finish the other two tonight and my son is so happy with his.

Tooth backsides. :)

I'm 5 and Kiss me its my Birthday.

2010-03-03T16:01:00.002-05:00

My big girl is 5. She is also now registered for Kindergarten. Time sure flies.

The Eve of her 5th Birthday, Busy Tooth Fairy & Non-Crafty Mama

2010-03-02T21:27:00.006-05:00

My oldest daughter is minutes away from turning 5. That in itself seems unbelievable. Tomorrow she will be a year older and on the eve of this special birthday she looses her first tooth. Its been wiggly for quite some time and it was bound to happen soon. Her big tooth has already made its appearance behind her baby tooth. Having trouble eating the past few days we convinced her that taking the tooth out would make her feel much better. To our surprise she accepted our bribe of a tooth for some M&Ms.

As a child my mom gave me a tooth fairy pillow. I loved it. It was super cute and special. Little did I know the value in such a pillow to the Tooth Fairy. For my son we did the under-the-pillow method and the tooth fairy never had trouble getting to his bunk beds. But we were worried that the tooth fairy, even with the map Miss E drew for her, would have trouble finding her tooth. So I set out to buy a tooth fairy pillow. But alas, I couldn't find one that I liked. After a long turmoil I decided to make one myself. I am a terrible artist and don't know how to sew but I thought I would give it a go.

Here is the final product with a happy girl.

And here is how I made it.

I started with two sheets of felt (per pillow, I plan do do two more for the other kids), some string and a tooth pattern that I found on the internet.

I cut out the pattern and traced it onto the felt.

I then cut out both of the felt pieces so that they would be the same shape. I used white for the front and pink for the back.

Then I used the scrap from the pink (back) to make a pocket on the front and I stitched it onto the front panel.

Next came stitching around 3/4 of the tooth.

After searching two craft stores I could not find any pillow stuffing. So this old throw pillow that matched our old house gave the ultimate sacrifice to be re-born as tooth fairy pillows.

I stuffed the bottom of the tooth first and continued to stitch the rest of the way.

I added a handle with the scrap from the left over white felt and finished stuffing the tooth. Then I secured the handle as I finished the stitching around the top.

One final touch was to draw a little face. Cause all good tooth fairy pillows need to be festive.

Even though it is extremely simple and low-tech, I think she likes it anyway. Maybe I will still add a little flare but I think it came out pretty ok.

Here is the big girl after her bath admiring her new look.

Tomorrow we celebrate her becoming 5 with tooth fairy excitement, cookies for her pre-school class and a special dinner with ice cream. Oh and a little trip to the Elementary school to register her for Kindergarten.

Happy Birthday Eve to my toothless almost-5-year-old.

Purim Carnival Fun

2010-02-28T20:49:00.004-05:00

Purim is the most fun Jewish Holiday. The kids get to dress up as King and Queens to take part in the story of Purim.

Then we go to a carnival with our Temple chocked full of games and fun. Mr Z is deciding what to play next.

Then Face Painting.

Then crafts and mask making.

Then jousting. Mr Z takes his turn against an older girl. He did quite well. :)

A Bloggity Face Lift & A Typical Monday Eve

2010-02-22T21:55:00.003-05:00

Its been on my 'to do' list for many months to give this little blog a make-over. I finally got the nerve to wipe out all my former work and start over. I am quite happy with how its shaping up. But I still may make a few changes as I settle in. I would love to hear your thoughts on my new layout.

But no post would be complete without some photos. Here is a typical monday night for us.

It starts with a rushed commute home, shuffling the kids in the door to eat a quick dinner and a rush out the door again for my son to Karate. That left me all alone with the girls as my ~~victims~~ subjects.

I love this little Children's Place 'retro' outfit.

And of course a silly one.

Miss E calls these their twin outfits. I love it when they cooperate.

Bath time for the girlies.

And...of course a silly one.

Finally the girls are off to bed just in time for Mr. Karate Kid to get back and show off his new big boy tooth. He lost another baby tooth and was proud to show me.

And now my handsome young man is off in dreamland awaiting the visit of the Tooth Fairy. I love that he still believes and he super excited to check under his pillow in the morning.

Goodnight Monday.

Cub Scout Banquet

2010-02-21T09:43:00.005-05:00

This week was the banquet for the cub scouts to earn their new badges. My son has been working real hard to memorize his pledge since this is the first year he is participating. The men also baked a Father and Son cake for an auction which they had a good time creating.

Here are some highlights of the event.

Looking very nice in his uniform.

My daughter waiting for the buffet to open.

More waiting (we got there a little early).

Finally two new badges. :)

A Valentine Message

2010-02-13T21:52:00.004-05:00

A Valentine message from Miss E. Totally her idea all she asked me to do was write out the message on a paper. She drew the bubble letters, cut them out and pasted them. Then she wants me to take it to her school to tape to the door so that when people come in they will think of Valentine's day and be happy.

My Grandma and SNOMG!

2010-02-09T20:59:00.002-05:00

My girls love to play dress up. These necklaces belonged to my Grandma. They are nothing special, just some cosmetic jewelry that she loved, but when my kids wear them, they remind me of her.

This has been quite the winter. We have gotten more snow in the last two months than we usually see in 3-4 winters combined. This latest storm has seriously shut everything down for days. We finally were able to get the truck out to do a little shopping just in time for the second blizzard of Feb. Yay.us.

Tomorrow...more digging and snow blowing. When is spring again??

Resurrection

2010-02-05T09:52:00.003-05:00

I am officially bring this blog back from the dead. I have been gone from it way too long working on other ventures and I am now ready to continue the drama that is My Life.

I am choosing to start off with a post about my son. He is in 2nd grade and this is his first year in Cub Scouts:

Cub scouts has been quite an adventure in how to handle lots of little boys. Wow, do they have such energy. Getting them to listen, sit still and do group activities is near impossible. This up coming weekend was scheduled to be the Pinewood Derby Race. Little did we know that we are planning to get socked with close to 2' of snow which is scheduled to start any minute. However, my son and my hubby set out last weekend to start building his car.

First cutting and sanding:

The dangerous parts were obviously done by the Hubbs but my son had fun sanding his car.

Next was the paint. Mr. Z had the notion that he wanted red for his car. He thought that was a nice fast color. So off to Home Depot we went to buy some spray paint (in another snow storm, I might add):

Then we waited for the paint to dry for a couple of days. In the mean time we found a cute little 'driver' for the car and some numbers. Mr. Z decided on the number '81' for his car. Why? I am not sure. He thought it was a nice number to put on the car. I have no idea the significance.

Wed night the boys set out to put the finishing touches on. The wheels, driver and numbers were all placed on. I have to say it looks mighty cute.

Now the race has been moved out one week but its nice to know we are ready anyway. I am keeping my fingers crossed that our little car does well. But even if it doesn't we have a nice little project to display in my house.

PSF About my Blog Neglect & Beach Trip

2009-07-24T10:26:00.006-04:00

This poor blog has been seriously neglected since I have been working on my Project 365 and my new Biz Website. So to those who still read this lonely blog, you can see much more activity from me in these places:

The Gaggle Photography Website
The Gaggle Photography Blog
Gaggle365 Project

Please bookmark the other two blogs as well.

But don't go removing this blog from your readers just yet, I still plan to keep it (and try my hardest to update it) and post family events and pictures.

So, without further ado, here are some lovely photos from our recent trip to the beach.

Our first night we took in a stroll on the boardwalk.

My son figures out that waves are used for more than just jumping.

Playing at the beach by the bay my baby found that starfish were very ticklish and hermit crabs are kinda ugly up close.

The older daughter collected rocks while the younger daughter copied her, as usual.

It was a good long weekend and they needed a rest.

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

PSF - Such a long wait

2009-06-18T20:30:00.002-04:00

I love spring. I love the flowers and the blooms on the trees and the smell in the air. I plan more flowers each fall so I have new things to photograph in the spring. But Mother Nature saved the best for last, my lilies. They are the last and the most beautiful, at least to me. Each color seems to bloom at a different time but when they are all out in full force, their smell is heavenly.

This week, the orange greeted us.

Looking forward to my star gazers.

Oh and I have my fingers crossed for Mama Geek!!

PSF - Nature

2009-06-11T20:09:00.002-04:00

I love nature. Love scenes. Love landscapes.

This flower was calling out to me to shoot it:

Only then did I realize there was a bug.

I hate bugs. They can live in the world and I leave them alone, provided that they keep a huge distance and they are not in numbers.

But they are fun to shoot:

PSF - They Like Butter

2009-05-28T20:13:00.003-04:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

We were camping over Memorial Day weekend and having a good time walking around the campground. Miss E came across a field of Buttercups. Of course I told her that if she held it under her chin and it glowed yellow then she likes butter.

But of course she loves butter.

Then later, she decided to try this trick on her brother.

He loves it too but thought that this game wasn't as fun as his sister did.

PSF - Behind

2009-05-15T17:30:00.003-04:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

Man I am far behind at updating this blog. Things are busy but good. Last class has started and tomorrow I go to graduation. I have my first paying gig this weekend (working on my side-biz) and my youngest ~~baby~~ toddler turns two on Monday. Its almost summer and my 1st grader will soon be a 2nd grader.

Luckily I am trying my hardest to capture it all with my 365 project/blog.

I will try to update this blog more often as well. I know I slack. So here are a few recent ones in the mean time

Baby and me - who needs a serious haircut.

She asked me to take her pic today, can't say no to that!

And my handsome, sweaty man who loves to camp and ride bikes.

(Not really) WW - Catch up

2009-04-15T14:26:00.002-04:00

Haven't posted in a while. Just got finished my thesis and I am starting to come out of the fog called school. So, here are a few shots for my (almost) WW.

Looking for some warmer weather.

New bedroom for the girls is done.

My goof-face girl.

The cherry tree on the brink of bloom.

Karate boy who just got his orange belt.

PSF - This is Me

2009-03-19T20:17:00.003-04:00

This is me

This is me with my new glasses

Which look very much like my old glasses

Lately I haven't been feeling much like me.

I have been working through my Master's Thesis and it just sits heavily on my shoulders until its done. I am not sure why it has consumed me this much but until its done I will feel its weight.

I have been feeling really down on my photog lately. What I thought was an awesome great deal on my new L lens has turned into big frustration. I am either not getting it, my camera is dying or my new beautiful lens is not all THAT. I am thinking its my lack of skill. Plus my kids are done, done and done with me and I need some subjects to practice on so I should really open up some time for clients but see previous entry about large weight on my shoulders.

I also work and take care of three little ones.

I hope I will be back to good 'ole me soon.

Drop of Springtime

2009-03-18T10:42:00.000-04:00

Theme Thursday - Laughter

2009-03-05T08:08:00.003-05:00

My older daughter thinks it is sooo funny when I wash her hair and put it in a pony tail. This time I decided to bring my camera into the bathroom to grab a few shots. After I washed her hair and proceeded to let it fall into he face the giggling started.

And lasted most of the bath.

(not so) WW - Masters Thesis

2009-03-04T09:30:00.001-05:00

PSF - Something on your Face

2009-02-26T21:46:00.004-05:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

If her siblings are doing it, so should she. Tonight she had to have a Popsicle like them. Its amazing how grown up she is all ready and how much she gets away with at a younger age.

Even with a good scrubbing, her face is still orange.

I Heart Faces - BW

2009-02-25T08:37:00.004-05:00

Just a snap for the weekly BW theme on the I Heart Faces Blog.

My daughter waiting in a long line to finally see the Little Mermaid. The highlight of her Disney trip. I loved being in the sun for a brief moment, even though it was so cold there.

PSF - Elmolympics

2009-02-20T08:00:00.003-05:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

It was a close race last night at the Elmolympics. Getting the bronze was little Hokey Pokey Elmo who was the favorite for the toddler carry event. The silver medal goes to big Hokey Pokey Elmo who was the favorite in the dancing event but lost the gold metal when the batteries unexpectedly died mid "left foot in". The gold metal goes to Tickle Me Elmo TMX who provided hours of entertainment for toddler in the "push over and pick me up" event. Fun was had by all, except mommy who is tired of hearing "ELMO ELMO ELMO". Even Mickey Mouse is now, "Elmo".

PSF - Glass

2009-02-13T07:43:00.003-05:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

I treated myself with something I have wanted for a while. I was resigned to pay retail for this beauty but lucked into finding someone who was selling their two-week old machinery due to indecision. He was faced with making a decision between two camera brands after buying one and being gifted another. Lucky for me, he went with the other and I scooped up a deal.

This lens is so heavy that I fear I will drop it. I also need tons of practice cause what I once new about my camera I have to relearn. But I bask in the yummy sharpness that I hope to acheive one day when the kids are not running around like headless chickens:

WW - My Desk Pal, I call him Brian Jr.

2009-02-11T11:04:00.000-05:00

PSF - Ice Skating

2009-01-29T21:12:00.002-05:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

Snow with ice on top, what a lovely combo. Yesterday we woke up with the most beautiful white topped with the most shiny and glistening ice. I wanted pics, of course. I trudged out to the trees to get some of the ice covered limbs and skipped and skidded the entire way. Luckily I didn't drop my camera.

So I go in and call it a success. Today, ice still on our driveway and deck. I grabbed my handy shovel and started trying to chip away at the frozen tundra. I must have looked like a real fool sliding all over the place. It would have been easier if I had my old ice skates. But I didn't even make a dent. However, I did clear the deck steps so that I don't have to carry the stupid dogs each time they want to potty. But I captured one more of my patio table while I was at it.

WW - Snow Princess

2009-01-28T10:48:00.000-05:00

PSF - Have Bag, Will Travel

2009-01-16T11:35:00.002-05:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

Packing up the family for a week's vacation. (well as soon as I get off the computer playing with pics) We are taking the kids on an airplane ride, something we haven't done in a few years. I am looking forward to some family time but not necessarily while corralling my gaggle thru airport security. Wish us luck! (and I will be sure to throw in a few vacation pics during the week)

PSF - Birthday Necklace

2009-01-08T21:00:00.002-05:00

My oldest daughter is a jewelry hoard. She love all things girlie, dresses, tights, earrings, dance shoes and necklaces. She's also learning about birthdays. Her's is coming up in March so we have been talking much about where she would like her party. However, that means everyone's birthday is coming up. Well, actually my hubby's is next week. However, she thinks my birthday is next week as well, even though I have told her a gazillion times its in May. I guess she is still grasping the aspect of time.

Anyway, as my present she 'made' me this necklace crafted with pipe cleaners. However, she won't let me wear it!

PSF - Happy New Year's Obsessions

2009-01-02T10:43:00.005-05:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

Happy New Year to all! Hope you had a great night. We went to dinner with friends and then slept in since the kiddos were at the Grandparents. Woo!

So new year comes new obsessions in photography. The first is I am gearing up a new website/blog and new logos and working on getting a portfolio together. What that means is, starting in 2009 I will attempt start taking on 'clients' (which really means friends) to start Portfolio Building sessions. If that goes well, maybe...just maybe, I will take on professional clients. Yes...I am thinking of taking the plunge, but just PT only (not to mention until June I will be finishing my MBA to include a 50 page thesis, so needless to say, I won't have a ton of free time). I just need new subjects to practice on cause my kids are tired of the looks of my camera. I am beyond nervous but I really need to start someplace so slow and steady it will be!

The second thing is I am going to do a 365 project for the year. Since I take tons of pictures each and every day anyway, I thought I would put together Project 365 of 2009.

I will be keeping track of these both on Flickr and on a separate 365 blog that I created.

Project 365 Blog

Oh and I will NOT be doing all Self Portraits for this project. I plan to take one shot each day of anything I want. :) No one wants to see that many pics of me anyway.

So....big year, big obsessions, big goals. Wish me luck.

PSF - Holidays

2008-12-25T20:59:00.003-05:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

We are Jewish and celebrate Hanukkah. However, my hubby's family is not. We go to their house on Christmas Eve and Christmas day each year. Often these two holidays fall at the same time.

This year my son is old enough to light the candles himself.

Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah to all out there in the blogsphere.

PSF - I get to play too

2008-12-18T20:06:00.003-05:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

This can be a tough time of year for those of us who do not celebrate Christmas. The lights, the songs, the santa its all much fun for the kids. My son is getting old enough to understand our heritage and the fun of Hanukkah. My daughter isn't there yet and is very into the Christmas this year. So we have been talking about getting Hanukkah gifts, lighting the Menorah and playing dreidel. I wrapped and put out each of the kids 8 gifts so they can see them much earlier than I normally do to get them excited. But I also wanted to do something else festive for the kids. I bought this Star of David light in a beautiful blue and hung it in my window above my electronic Menorah.

Its so beautiful hanging in my window. Even the baby liked to play:

My daughter is getting excited to open her presents. But we still love driving around and spotting Santa and Reindeer and beautiful twinkle lights.

My Not-So-Professional Lighting Tutorial

2008-12-18T14:40:00.024-05:00

This is my very non-professional lighting tutorial for those who have asked me how I do my lighting. I will preface this by saying that I did nothing to these shots. They are basically SOOC except for a convert to jpg from RAW (except for the ones taken in Auto) and resized down for viewing but if you click on the images, they will open bigger.

So we will start off with two pictures of me looking goofy.

#1 This me me using my camera in Auto (gasp) with my pop-up flash in my dirty mirror:

#2 This is me with my Speedlight (Canon 430EX). I wanted to show what it looks like on the camera. I have one white diffuser that I keep on my camera 90% of time. If I am outside I take it off and use the reflector that is built into the top. I keep the flash pointed toward the ceiling or angled slightly back behind my shoulder to minimize the shadows and get that bounced look.
Goofiness over. Here are some examples. My daughter on the couch.

#1 On board flash. Its very harsh. (although this example doesn't do the harshness any justice)

#2 With my speedlight on ETTL (which is Speedlight-speek for Auto). Notice its a nice warm color. This was taken on Manual with ISO 200 1/125)

#3 With my speedlight on M. I find that I can crank up the power of the light. There are fractions on the back of the light. 1/1 is the fullest power and its BLINDING. Then it goes down in increments 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, 1/16 - you get the picture. This is where you have to play to get it right. When you have more light, you can reduce your ISO and increase your SS which helps with noise and blur. So I tend to use it around 1/4 or 1/8 power and keep an ISO of 200 which is what I used in this shot. The light in M is also whiter and less warm (which can be good and bad depending on the look you want).

Here are some more examples from a more willing subject model. This is my son's Build a Bear, Fred.

This shot was taken in Auto with my on board flash. That means the camera selected an ISO of 400 with 1/60 SS based on lighting. My 'studio' is a small room with little light. Therefore the flash has to compensate a lot. This looks quite harsh.

Since I don't like those setting, mostly because that SS is way too low for fast moving kids, that's where manual and the speed light comes in. This shot was taken with an ISO of 200 and 1/160 SS at an F/4.0. I tend to shoot at these settings often. Now I could have cranked up the speedlight as it is slightly too dark for my taste here. However, that's something that you have to adjust as you use the speedlight, unless you have a light meter, which I don't. However, looking at the quality of the light it produced, there are less shadows and a nice warm glow.

Here are two pictures of my new studio lights. I have one softbox that I keep camera left high and pointed down. Then I use the umbrella for fill on the side.

I use the softbox for my main light. I like the way it looks and I think it produces nice catch lights. As you can see above, I position it above the subject and pointed down. I have this light set to around 1/2 power. I am currently using the sync cable that came with the light to hook directly to my camera. As I mentioned, its a small room and I don't wander too far from the light. For the second light, the fill umbrella, I set it to about 1/4 power and I am utilizing the infrared sensor. This means when the first light is triggered by my camera, the second light detects that flash and will also flash. The only draw back to this is I cannot go above about 1/250 SS as that second flash won't be fast enough to catch it in time.

Here is an SOOC shot of my bear using my lights. The subject is fairly evenly lit, even though I could still move my fill light around some to get different effects. The biggest benefit to shooting with studio lights are two-fold. 1. I can shoot at ISO 100, 1/200, f/8. This works so well for multiple kids/people in one frame. and 2. You can keep your settings static throughout the entire shoot. Which, again for kids, is really really really nice. I can shoot off 20 exposures (once I get the lighting correct which I am still practicing) in a matter of minutes. Since my kids have very short attention spans, setting the camera/flash once and taking as many as I can in a short time is a real life saver!

One last closeup for good measure. Unfortunately, with this model you can't see the beautiful square catch lights that the softbox produces, but you can scroll down and see the photos I posted last week as examples.

Hopefully this was detailed enough to be informative. This is my first tutorial so I may not have explained everything as well as I could. Please feel free to leave me questions if there is something that you would like me to explain further.

Theme Thursday - Holiday Memories

2008-12-18T08:31:00.002-05:00

I thought I would post pictures of the kids' first Hanukkah for this week.

This is 2002 with my first born. Mr Z. He was 6 months old here. He couldn't sit up yet and was fascinated with the presents.

This is 2005 and we have two. Miss E was 9 months old yet and starting to walk. She loved the lights.

This was last year, 2007. Miss V's first. She was 7 months old and already showing us her stubborn side.

Goofing off in the "Studio"

2008-12-12T08:11:00.003-05:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

I recently bought some studio lights. I had literally one nanosecond before the kids melted down and refused to sit still for me to play. I really need some more cooperative ~~victims~~ models.

But I have to say shooting in a 'studio' is really fun and challenging. I just need to get the hang of light placement. So if anyone has any tips for me, please feel free.

Oh and I have had a bunch of people ask me for a lighting tutorial, so I promise I will get to that real soon.

I'm not all that great at BW conversions so I am practicing.

Handed the camera to the 6 year old son to grab this one. He did great.

Look at those big browns.

Theme Thursday - Holiday

2008-12-11T08:04:00.003-05:00

We are having lots of fun in my house getting ready for the big Holiday. Here are some ways we are celebrating.

My son challenged me to a fierce game of dreidel.

He's beating me by taking all of my pennies.

Then I get kicked out of the game by the 3 year old.

The baby gets a turn putting the flames into the candles in their Menorah.

Then she wants to play with my electric one.

The older two put together their Menorah puzzle.

Then the tears come out when the youngest can't ruin their puzzle fun.

One final shot of all their loot wrapped and ready to go.

The kids are very excited for the 21st (and we are too).

WW - nature

2008-12-10T08:15:00.001-05:00

PSF - Kar Ra Tay

2008-12-05T07:55:00.001-05:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

Ever see that friends episode where Ross was explaining that he was a master of Kar Ra Tay? Man I loved that one. Anyway, I signed my son up for Karate this fall. At first he loved it, then not so much and now back to love. I was hoping it would help with discipline, focus and of course his boundless energy. Well it hasn't helped much with any of it but he has learned a lot. Now he wants a Karate outfit. Since I plan to sign him up for another class in the spring maybe I will swing for it. Here he is showing off his moves.

Here's his scary punching look:

And his side kick:

I think he's ready for competition, thoughts??

WW - Siblings

2008-12-03T07:37:00.000-05:00

PSF - A year makes

2008-11-20T21:20:00.004-05:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

I decided to look back a year ago at Miss V's 6 month shots. What a difference in her, in my photography (at least I think I have gotten a little better). I set up a mock studio in my basement. I used a sheet hung from two ladders and I used my hubby's hot shop lights. I made a reflector out of tin foil around one of the kids large books. So in the morning I take the kids down to take my 'professional' shots.

All I can say is wow, yellow and awww...my little baby.

Theme Thursday - Thankful

2008-11-20T07:46:00.002-05:00

I am thankful for so much, let me count the ways:

1. This boy and throwing rocks into the pond.

2. This girl and her radiant eyes and smile.

3. This girl and her joyful laugh.

4. And this man who helps me keep some sanity.

WW - 18 Month Old Girlie (already)

2008-11-19T09:14:00.001-05:00

PSF - Gymnast/Dancer

2008-11-14T07:54:00.003-05:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

Once a week this little girl takes gymnastics. She like its most days. Yesterday was not one of those days. She went with her daddy as I stayed home with her siblings. She went to class and performed well until she had a melt down over seeing a friend of hers come into the lobby but not come into class. Then she came home for dinner. I really think she wants to be a dancer though. Or maybe mommy wants her to be one. :) I think we will forgo the gymnastics for ballet, once I find a studio.

I can't believe she is rounding the corner on 4. How did she get to be so big and sassy?

(excuse the terrible pics, I snapped them quickly before her bath)

Theme Thursday - Home

2008-11-13T07:57:00.004-05:00

As I am getting back in the groove of things coming off a few weeks of travel, this is a really good theme for me. Its so nice to arrive home after being away. I finally had some time to grab my camera and get some shots of us hanging it at home.

First we work on homework.

And color rainbows.

Then we sit and watch some TV.

Then Miss E gets mad when I want to take her picture of her watching TV.

Then its me, wearing my 'working from home' slippers.

And as an added bonus, here is a shot from Wed night after I arrived home from traveling. I grabbed these two and snapped a fun shot.

I love following them around the house with the camera. They don't like it so much. :) But I figure one day they will thank me for keeping so many memories of them as they grow. Right??

WW - When you can't grow em, Buy em

2008-11-12T09:40:00.000-05:00

Life gets in the way

2008-11-10T10:53:00.002-05:00

Blogging has taken the back seat recently as I have been traveling and working on school work these last two weeks. Luckily this semester is coming to a close and I have major hurdles behind me (like a 100% grade on my term paper :) ) and my travel will end by tomorrow night for a while. Therefore, I will return to my regular posting shortly. However, I wanted to post today to acknowledge my absence and tell everyone that I have been reading your blogs but haven't had much time to respond. I am slapping my own wrist for being a bad blogger-friend.

So, that said, I will post photos, just cause. :)

She wanted to pose for me, only when she was ready, to show off her purses.

Using the compact as a phone. "Ehhh?"

And one that I found going thru older ones. Thought it was worth a second look.

PSF - Last Trip

2008-10-30T21:01:00.002-04:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

I always try to capture the kids in their element and don't have an easy time. I think that showing them together is the hardest challenge of all but worth the time cause I like seeing them at their present heights. Anyway, not much of a story to this photo except that they listened to me when I told them I wanted them to walk together holding hands. I just love the closeness they show here.

This was our last camping trip of the season as its turning cold. Now I will focus my time on figuring out how to perfect my external flash. :)

Theme Thursday - Create

2008-10-30T09:31:00.001-04:00

Since I am on travel this week I didn't have too much time to create anything fun, but I do have some shots of my pumpkins for today's theme.

That last one makes me hungry. So not terribly creative but I wanted to have some fun with something other than my grumpy kids.

PSF - Haircut

2008-10-24T09:09:00.002-04:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

Well we broke down and decided to get the peanut her hair cut. I can't believe how much hair this child has. We took her to the local chain and was hoping she would be good. My other two cried like banshies when their hair was cut so I assumed the worst. I couldn't believe that she sat in that chair with her apron on the whole time and didn't move. We were stunned, no crying, no fidgeting, nothing. Amazing. It also helped that big sis was standing in front of her making her laugh.

So here's before:

During:

After:

Isn't she the cutest? Well, of course I think that. :)

Theme Thursday - Story

2008-10-23T08:26:00.002-04:00

I had to dig thru the archives for this week's theme. Its been a crazy busy week and I haven't picked up my camera since the weekend. :( However, here are a few various shots that I think tell a story. What do you think?

I wonder what she is thinking here.

Practice makes perfect.

And of course one of the horses. I often wonder what goes thru their minds as they watch my house/kids/us and all our antics. If they could only talk.....

What stories do you have to share today?

PSF - Tires of Gold

2008-10-17T07:23:00.003-04:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

Two years ago we bought the dreaded mini-van. Neither of us wanted one but with the third child on the way it seemed the logical choice. We researched, created spreadsheets, test drove all of the vans out there and finally settled on one. The biggest flaw with this mini-van was the tires. We hated the tires. They ride terrible and they are crazy crazy expensive. Well the time had come to replace them after only just over 40K miles. Oh, did I mention that these tires wear terribly too? After much thought, more spreadsheets and more test drives we decided to keep this van and replace the tires to get about one more year out of it. Wow, was that painful. I am still not sure that was the right decision but its done now. Maybe next year there will be another vehicle that we will love more and can haul around our large family. Hmmm....maybe not.

Theme Thursday - Fall

2008-10-16T07:57:00.004-04:00

My favorite theme yet! Here are way too many shots of fall around my house:

At the pumpkin patch

No Climbing!

Holly is starting to show berries

Purple Ash Tree

Maple

And the girlie with the fall background.

Ok, that's enough but I could go on all day long. This is the best time of year for photos!

WW - Trick or Treaters (the early edition)

2008-10-15T08:05:00.001-04:00

Been Tagged by Kimberly

2008-10-14T08:57:00.003-04:00

So I was tagged by Kimberly to participate in some randomness. I am supposed to write 7 random things about myself. So here goes:

I drink more than 2 cups of coffee in a day and like it in the afternoon and evening too (decaf)
I love musicals and my all time favorite is Rent. I am listening to the soundtrack now and I have the movie, plus I have seen it on Broadway and on tour
Fall is my favorite time of year, pumpkins, apples, leaves, coolness and Halloween
I am wanting to take a real photography class once I can fit it into my schedule but I have no idea where to go for one
I wear the same pair of earrings everyday. I don't buy jewelry often and don't shop for fashion jewels either.
I really don't like Disney but since my kids do I force myself to take them there and buy them the ~~propaganda~~ products.
I have a bad habit of biting my cuticles. I have a pair of nippers in my desk at work to cut them off.

Well, that's a bit about me today. I don't think I will pass this onto 7 people as I am supposed to but if you read this and want to participate please feel free.

PSF - Childhood

2008-10-09T21:44:00.003-04:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

When was the last time you had a ball with a plastic lawn mower and a ball popper.

What timing to catch them both doing the same thing at the same time in the same shot. Its funny someone thought I cut them and Photoshopped them into the same frame, but it was really a total fluke. Maybe not the best shot since I should have gotten better focus, but it so captures the essence of being a child.

Theme Thursday - Sun

2008-10-09T11:22:00.003-04:00

I set out to do these shots yesterday afternoon in the beautiful afternoon sun however, there was no sun to be found with the cloudy rain we were getting. So instead I did them this morning in the morning light.

Attempt #1 - I wanted to capture the Crab Apple Tree with the sun shining past the top:

Attempt #2 - I wanted to get on closer on the apples but realized it was harder with trying to position the sun through the branches. The tree then came out a but darker:

And bonus shot. My little one playing in the afternoon sun.

WW - It Begins

2008-10-08T07:34:00.000-04:00

PSF - Cause I always wanted to

2008-10-03T07:50:00.003-04:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

After some thought and inspiration from the wonderful photogs I follow, I decided I wanted to venture a try at the 'sleeping baby' pics. I know my youngest won't be a baby for too much longer so I wanted to take advantage sooner than later. After putting them to bed, I stall for time to make sure Miss V is totally asleep. Then I take my camera and a flashlight and tiptoe into her room. Setting my camera on the highest ISO possible and opening her door with the hall light on and the flashlight shining on the ceiling....it was still way dark. Darn. OK, plan B. She's asleep, right? Why not turn on her light a bit? As soon as my finger hit the button on the ceiling fan light, her little head popped up to see what I was up to. UGH, Darn. Ok, turn the light off and walk out so she goes back to sleep.

I wait 5 mintues and go back into her room. This time I set up to use my external flash set to a high brightness and a low ISO and high SS. Miss V is sleeping on her back and I set up and take my first shot **CLICK/FLASH** and just then they poor startled baby jumped higher than I have ever seen her do. Poor girl, I blinded her! I felt terrible.

She rolls over and goes back to sleep and I walk out for another 5 min break. I re-adjust my settings, lower my flash and sneak back in to try again and manage to get this shot through the bars of her crib:

But I woke her up again!

I leave again for another 10 min break. But I am not defeated! Nope not at all. I sneak back in there and proceed to shoot a bunch more. I must have looked like a loon though trying to squeeze my large un-squeezable lens in between the crib rails, leaning over her while standing on a stool, placing my camera in the bed with her and taking a shot totally without looking and taking the chance of lowering her rail to get a better angle. Keeping in mind it was very black in her room so the times where I was standing over her holding the camera at my waist height, I was completely aiming my flash directly into my eyes, which left me seeing spots for a long time! Smart, real smart. However, I did manage to get a few good ones that think captures the moment, despite me being a total idiot!

Oh and I wouldn't DARE have taken away her binkie. That would have surely been a death-wish, even though I would have love to have gotten a few with out it.

Ok so I overloaded PSF this week (makes up for my lame-o post last week).

Theme Thursday - Multiples

2008-10-02T07:49:00.003-04:00

What a good way to show off multiples than taking multiple shots of my multiple kids. This is by far the hardest thing for me as a mom, getting them all together. Something is usually wrong with the shot, one (or more) isn't looking at me, my focus is off or they are running out of frame. Here are three attempts of getting them all in one shot from last night. Can you spot what is wrong with these??

I took a chance and thought if Mr. Z was holding Miss V. she would sit still for a shot. It worked, kinda.

So anyway, getting onto part two of the Multiples, how I process multiple photos at once. I usually shoot in Raw so I upload the shots from my camera and import them directly into Lightroom before I do anything else. From there, I look at each one and pick a few I would like to process. The one think I love about Lightroom are the presets. I have a bunch that I toy around with. Some give me the real warm glow and some add vignette. I like the ones that reduce noise and up the exposure, cause even though I try to avoid it, I am still underexposing my shots. I also crop in Lightroom (usually keep the same photo ratio) so that when I choose the preset, if there is a vignette, it will be on the cropped in shot.

For the above shots I used three different Lightroom presets. I liked the initial look of these. Then I played with the WB (I haven't ventured into custom WB yet) and exposure. Sometimes I use Lightroom to do my noise reduction but othertimes I use my plug in later. Once I am done with the Lightroom processing, I send these to PS. In PS I either run an action to make the shot brighter or in some cases hazey (cause I like that look). I also play with the levels and/or curves to get the exposure just right. I add a contrast layer and sometimes a hue/saturation layer and then flatten. From here I run a sharpen and add my watermark. I will save the file as a copy of the original just incase I want to go back and re-PP. I also know that since I still have the Raw file and Lightroom does not change that, I can start from the beginning and do it all over again if I want to.

So that's my workflow for multiple shots. I am getting more pleased with my PP but its still a work in progress. Some days I think they all look great. Some days, like last night, I am not all that happy with the results. I am sure I will get in more of a groove and like my processing more and more each time I do it.

WW - Happy Jewish New Year!

2008-10-01T08:05:00.001-04:00

PSF - I'm Out

2008-09-26T07:34:00.003-04:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

Out of stories for this week, that is. This week's been a blur even though it seems to have dragged on forever, I don't feel like I fully woke up. We gotta get the baby to sleep later than 5:15 am. Man her screaming before dawn is like being woken by the devil. But I digress.

Today I just have two shots to share. While working with the little girl for shots in her Dolly Dress I attempted to be "professional portrait photographer" while I grabbed a shot of the two oldest. So here they are:

My son was helping me out while we were trying to get V to cooperate. I lied down and I grabbed this shot. I don't write or share pics of him as often as I should. I need to get better at that.

And Miss E who was at gymnastics during her sister's photo shoot. I took the opportunity to grab a shot of her before her bath. This one came out too flashy (drat) cause even with my external flash bounced over my shoulder it still looked like I used a flash. I needed to use it though cause of how dark it was outside. Why is it when I take pics of her she always has a tatoo or stamp on her body?

Ok so those are my lame 'stories' for the week. Next week I promise will be more exciting!

Theme Thursday - Idle

2008-09-25T07:52:00.003-04:00

Idle time...hmm, what's that. We so rarely get idle time in my house with three kiddos running around. I decided to post some shots of my kids before bed doing their nightly unwinding routine.

This is where you will find my son, in front of his computer playing games. His latest favorite is Disney's Toon Town.

This is Miss E's favorite nightly activity, chillin on her chair watching a little TV. Tonight was Back at the Barnyard.

And the little one playing in her brother's seat. She loves to grab the magna-doodle and make some pretty pictures for mommy.

That's about all the idle time we get, well, except when they are sleeping and mommy and daddy plop in front of their TV!

WW - To cut or let grow longer

2008-09-24T07:59:00.000-04:00

PSF - It Must be the Dress

2008-09-19T07:39:00.003-04:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

I was asked to take some shots of my youngest in this Dolly Dress by my Mother in Law. She bought this dress for my oldest daughter when she was around the same age as Miss V is now. She wanted to get shots of Miss E so I suggested she take her to one of those Mall places for some studio time. She did and has the photos on her wall. Well, now that Miss V is the same age as E was when she had those shots done, she naturally asked me to take some pictures of Miss V in this same dress. As I was going through the little photo shoot and realizing just how hard it was to photograph a 16 month old I reflect back on the photos that my Mother in Law has of Miss E and remember that those photos were like pulling teeth as well (which is why I told HER to take her to the Mall). Therefore, I conclude that its not the behavior of my girls that makes taking their picture so hard at this age, but in fact, This Dress.

I am not sure this is what my Mother in Law wanted to hang on her wall. I guess I will try again for some better shots.

Theme Thursday - Playtime

2008-09-18T07:48:00.004-04:00

I am posting lots of pictures from our evening of play this week. We are taking the time to play in the warmness of dusk this week because we know that fall will be upon us soon and we will be coming home to cool darkness. This is us enjoying the last bits of summer before it turns cold.

I love how the little one follows the big one around.

Go visit Stacy for more Playtime!

WW - This one, or that one...could not decide.

2008-09-17T07:41:00.000-04:00

PSF - We're in so Much Trouble

2008-09-12T09:40:00.002-04:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

After the bath last night I asked my middle daughter if I can take a picture of her in her new lion towel. I thought these were way cute when I bought them and I have been meaning to take a picture. She said to me, "Yes you can, but first mommy, I need to wear this necklace". She took off her towel, put on her necklace and proceeded to pose for me.

What kind of teenager is this one going to be? I am scared.

Oh and here's a shot of the little man in his alligator (not a crocodile) towel. I always get this face. Why won't he sit still for a second...oh right, he's a boy!

WW - Random shots of nothingness while on travel

2008-09-10T09:09:00.001-04:00

PSF - 9 Years

2008-09-05T08:05:00.002-04:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

Today marks 9 years of married life. 9 years ago today I was getting dressed at my parents house watching the pouring down rain and wondering if my planned garden wedding was going to be inside. Well, it was. However, it was still beautiful especially when the sun shone through the stained glass window just as we said our "I Do's". So 9 years, 3 kids, 2 dogs, 2 houses, tons of trees and to many cars to count - we celebrate our life together.

Theme Thursday - Rest

2008-09-04T08:31:00.003-04:00

I rarely get sleeping kids shots. Usually cause they are always so crazy during the day that when they do sit down, I'm not fast enough. But also cause when they are sleeping I am so afraid to wake them that I never go into their rooms for fear they will hear me! However, the car is fair game, which is where they seem to take their best rests.

Even in sleep, she needs to keep on her headphones. When they fall off her head, she sleepily fixes them back on her ears.

And its rare for my son to sleep in the car these days but I managed to grab a quick shot of these two before they woke up.

Maybe soon I will be daring enough to venture into their rooms and steal a quick shot or two.

WW - My "I never do shots but collect them, collection"

2008-09-03T07:43:00.001-04:00

PSF - Watch them Run

2008-08-29T07:50:00.002-04:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

I am posting this photo, not because its all that interesting, or all that technically correct but because of the timing of it all. Our house backs up to a horse farm. The woman who runs the farm has no less that 6 horses that she boards/rides at a given time. Therefore, we get to see all different types and colors of horses just outside our windows. Last weekend we were all outside playing in the yard shooting off vinegar and baking soda (or as Miss E would say - Bacon Soda) rockets. Miss E decided to take a walk away from the excitement of the rocket to look at the horses who were engrossed in watching my hubby make a fool of himself when the rocket would launch before he was ready and would go sideways instead of up. The horses came right up to the fence and were making tons of ~~laughing~~ Nehing noises at him.

At this point I was goofing with the camera, as usual, and while Miss E was walking toward the horses leaning over the fence ("Don't get too close!"), I took a photo or 20. I was already set up and shooting what I thought was a comical scene - a small child, a large pasture and three huge horses staring at her approach when this happened:

At that split second, while I was taking a shot, the horses decided to take off and run away from this very scary looking child during her approach. I admit that these horses, for what ever reason that afternoon, were acting quite feisty and I have a few shots of them 'fighting' with one another but in our experiences with the horses on this farm, them taking off and running away is something they don't normally do. Needless to say, this was a one in a million shot to get them just starting their take off (even though there is nothing all that exciting about the photo at all). Miss E was quite startled at that chain of events that she sulked back to me and sat on my lap for the remainder of the Inaugural launch of the vinegar and bacon-soda rocket.

Theme Thursday - Summer's Best

2008-08-28T08:21:00.003-04:00

Coming up with some favorites from this summer wasn't too hard. Narrowing it down and picking ones that I have not posted yet was the challenge. :)

But here are two new ones that I found going back through the beach vacation we took in July of my girls.

And some other favorites that I may or may not have already shared.

The gaggle together last weekend.

Fun with bubbles.

My handsome man.

The girls in the bath.

Cool dude

Me and my daughters.

And finally, Father's day.

Wow, that was a lot. But it was a great trip down memory lane of all the wonderful times we had together this summer as a family!

WW - Summer's Fading

2008-08-27T08:50:00.000-04:00

My Blogiversary and Back to School

2008-08-25T09:38:00.003-04:00

I missed my 1 year Blogiversary from Aug 15th so I am going to mention it here today, a little late. This blog has been great fun and I appreciate the readers and comments over this past year. I may not always get a chance to visit each and every one of you every day but I do read as often as I can and I am glad to share my little life with those who choose to read.

Now, off to the real meat of this post. Today is Mr. Z's first day of 1st grade. He was crazy excited and quite cute, if I do say so. Here is the obligatory picture:

And the obligatory photo with mommy (and little sis):

I think he looks (and acts) tons bigger than last year's photo. Amazing what a year can do!

PSF - Painted Lady

2008-08-22T07:34:00.003-04:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

My son for his 6th birthday asked and received a butterfly garden growing kit. I loved the idea cause, well, I like watching things grow and change and I thought he would love it too. I filled out the little form to send in to receive our caterpillars and realized that this summer, with camping and vacations, was very full of us not being home for long stretches at a time. However, I picked this past week for us to receive the larvae and start the process of growing our butterflies. As instructed by the form where it specifically said "When would you like us to send your butterflies", I wrote Aug 18th which was the day we returned from our last camping adventure. I mailed in the form (In July) and said to myself that I was happy with that resolution.

One week later, we received, not one but TWO containers of larvae caterpillars. Oh crap. Now what? We have caterpillars to take care of but we plan to be gone for two camping trips in the near future. What to do? So hubbs calls the company to complain, "Why do you let us pick a date to have these shipped if you were just going to send them right away", "I would have just waited till we were back in town". To which they replied, "We are very sorry we will send you more on your requested date". Uhh, ok. So in the meantime, what do we do with these 10 soon to be butterflies that we are going to miss parts of their lifecycle.

So we watched them munch on the food they had in their container, we watched as they built their cocoons and then we transfered them to thier hatching habitat to wait till they became beautiful butterflies. However, no butterflies 'hatched' before we left for our last trip. We gave the dog sitter neighbor girl instructions to release them into the wild if they were to hatch before we came home. On Monday, all but 1 butterfly emerged and was released. There was one lone cocoon left. We decided to let it hang a few more days to see what would happen. Then on Wed we got to see the fruits of our labor (which wasn't much work on our part) and we came home to one last butterfly flittering around in the habitat. We kept her for 24 hours and gave her some fruit, which I don't think she touched, till we decided to let her go find her family in the depths of our yard.

Now we are onto round two with 5 more caterpillars that arrived on Monday of this week. Honestly, I think I enjoyed it more than the kids did.

Theme Thursday - Wonder

2008-08-21T09:56:00.002-04:00

Late summer and the kids are still having a ball. My son got a chance to fish this weekend at the camp gound and he had a wonderful time.

My older daughter loves to pick "flowers" for me from our yard.

And the youngest sitting at the table learning how to draw (or at least learning how not to eat the pencil).

Its so fun to watch them discover the things we take for granted. I love learning things all over again through their eyes. I cannot wait for fall to see them enjoy the season as much as I do.

WW - Road trip, sleeping kiddos...Priceless

2008-08-19T22:48:00.002-04:00

Back from Long Weekend

2008-08-19T08:59:00.002-04:00

We took one final long camping trip of the summer. It was tons of fun with great friends, good food and lots of family time. School starts in less than a week and fall will be upon us soon. I cannot wait for the changing of the seasons. I love fall with the crisp nights, the beautiful colors and the pumpkins! This summer was great fun though. We were able to go camping often and the kids really loved going to the beach and swimming. We hope to get in a few more weekend trips before it turns too cold. Hope everyone had as great a week as we did.

WW - Apple or Pear??

2008-08-13T08:15:00.002-04:00

PSF - Drummer Wanted

2008-08-08T07:56:00.003-04:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

Here is Sir Paul again with some of his band mates. They greet me each and every week day with a smile and a promise of a song, however, they have never fulfilled that second one. These three make my little cubical (i.e. home away from home) and little happier. However, as you can see, this trio used to be a foursome. Where's Ringo? Did he get stolen? These three characters were given to me by my brother who, at the time, worked in a gaming store. They sold these guys individually and for some reason they didn't have a Ringo. I have searched high and low for my final Beatle to complete this collection but alas, have failed. I can get the entire set, for a hefty price, but seeing as I have three of the four, I don't need spares of the ones I do have. So the search continues for the 4th Beatle. If anyone happens to spot the missing Ringo, please leave me a comment as to where I can find him. Maybe when I have the whole set they will senerade my entire office. Ok...maybe not. :)

Theme Thursday - Eyes

2008-08-07T07:46:00.004-04:00

Getting the kids to look at the camera while I take their picture is such a challenge. I try to think of new ways to get their attention. I have called their names, told them to look at mama and even used toys. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. Sometimes I get these looks:

Most of the time I try to incorporate myself into their line of sight and take a shot where I know they would be looking at me:

However, the littest is the hardest to photo. She refuses to cooperate no matter what I do. So I usually get side views of her. However, this shot in particular stood out to me cause I love that you can see the camp fire reflecting from her eyes.

If anyone has any tricks of the trade to get them to look at me, please feel free to share!

WW - Stand up and be Counted

2008-08-06T07:41:00.002-04:00

PSF - Learning Curve

2008-08-01T07:44:00.003-04:00

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

Miss V has taken to wanting to feed herself. But, alas, she is only 14 months old and not at all good at getting the spoon to her mouth. This is a daily struggle. On this night I was home alone feeding the kids. The rest of the gaggle was done except for her and of course myself, because I am the last to eat. I get up to fix myself some eggs when I look over and realize that the bowl that I had strategically placed out of her reach was directly under her nose and both hands were knuckle deep in the cottage cheese. So I figure, let her play and maybe she will actually get more food into her tummy than I can get trying to avoid flying arms on the way to her mouth. After my eggs were done cooking little Miss started screaming. She dropped her spoon and wanted me to fetch it. But, of course as any good amateur photographer would do, I snap a picture. Then I proceed to mop up this screaming child who just lost her best toy in the world. Darn independence of the toddler!