tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4526010804985677182024-03-13T09:48:45.642-07:00photos by karynPhotographer documents life as an educator, military spouse, and mother of three boys.Karyn http://www.blogger.com/profile/05289991052399474983noreply@blogger.comBlogger227125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-452601080498567718.post-50659851299473804762017-10-01T10:19:00.002-07:002017-10-01T10:53:42.195-07:003 Great Digital Communication Tools for Educators<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Digital communication is a key component to keeping students
and teachers informed about classroom activities and important
information. Making information easily
accessible is paramount to reaching as many parents and families as
possible. With a myriad of applications
and programs meant to simplify the communication process, it is difficult to
decide which are best and will stand the test of time. There is nothing more frustrating to a parent
than to have to learn a new communication app every semester and a different
app for every teacher. Here are three of
the most successful digital communication tools teachers should consider for
streamlining their parent communication efforts:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Tool Name:</b> Remind<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Tool URL:</b> <a href="https://www.remind.com/">https://www.remind.com</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Cost:</b> FREE
Digital Communication Tool<br />
<b style="text-indent: 0in;">Key Features:</b><span style="text-indent: 0in;"> Remind is a two-way, text-based messaging program
used on mobile devices and desktop computers.
After a very quick set-up, teachers send class announcements and
collaborate with colleagues to communicate with specific groups of students and
parents. Teacher’s draft scheduled announcements or
remind students in the moment. Remind
shares photos, important class documents, information about upcoming quizzes and
tests, field trip and permission slip reminders, and request special supplies
or classroom support through a secure network and monitor who is receiving and
reading class messages for maximized communication. Teachers are accessible but have the choice
to post “office hours”. This minimizes
unnecessary late night and weekend interruptions and supports teacher privacy. In addition to group messaging, Remind supports communication with specific parents and student via Chat. Furthermore,
multi-language translation is available at the push of a button, allowing
teachers to communicate more effectively with ELL populations. </span><br />
<b style="text-indent: 0in;">Disadvantages:</b><span style="text-indent: 0in;"> Parents and students
have varying access to digital devices. For
students with personal devices, Remind becomes a replacement for solid organizational
and planning skills. When students do
not own a cell-phone, the parent must relay every message, minimizing opportunities
for student responsibility.
Consequently, there is no class calendar feature to support student
planning. Some teachers may rely too
heavily on last minute notifications, frustrating parents who need to plan and
orchestrate multiple schedules.
Additionally, users of Remind are not able to chat privately with one
another, only the teacher initiates the conversation. </span><br />
<b style="text-indent: 0in;">Using this Tool: </b><span style="text-indent: 0in;">This tool is best used for whole class
reminders about upcoming dates and activities, and long-term class projects. Remind is also effective when important documents
need signatures. Also consider using
Remind for announcing school holidays, half days, and parent-teacher conferences. </span><br />
<b style="text-indent: 0in;"><br /></b>
<b style="text-indent: 0in;">Tool Name:</b><span style="text-indent: 0in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: 0in;">Bloomz</span><br />
<b style="text-indent: 0in;">Tool URL:</b><span style="text-indent: 0in;"> https://bloomz.net/</span><br />
<b style="text-indent: 0in;">Cost:</b><span style="text-indent: 0in;"> FREE Digital Communication Tool</span><br />
<b style="text-indent: 0in;">Key Features:</b><span style="text-indent: 0in;"> Bloomz in an all-inclusive application
combining text messaging, email, scheduling capabilities, forum for questions,
and document storage. Classroom management
begins with a personalized social media style page where teachers post announcements,
class photos, and videos. Teachers can
see who is receiving and reading class messages for maximized communication. A
behavior management program within Bloomz allows the teacher to record student
behavior and assign awards for positive behavior reinforcement. Sign-up options make scheduling parent-teacher
conferences and class parties/special events streamlined. In Bloomz, students document their work and
create a sharable portfolio throughout the school year. This application allows parents to
communicate with each other without sharing phone numbers. In an age where school directories are
guarded for privacy, the Bloomz program promotes a sense of community by
connecting parents within a classroom. Multi-language
translation is available at the push of a button, allowing teachers to
communicate more effectively with ELL populations. </span><br />
<b style="text-indent: 0in;">Disadvantages:</b><span style="text-indent: 0in;"> Setting up a Bloomz account can take upwards
of 20 minutes or more depending on how much information and personalization
goes into the creation of the class page and directory. Giving parents the opportunity to comment and
interact on the classroom page may ignite unnecessary drama. The teacher must moderate all comments to
ensure that the discussion stays focused on teaching and learning. </span><br />
<b style="text-indent: 0in;">Using this Tool:</b><span style="text-indent: 0in;"> This tool is best used to maintain positive
communication with parents. Use this
tool to update families about classroom activities and achievements, schedule whole
class reminders about upcoming dates and activities, and keep on task with long-term
class projects. Bloomz is also effective
when the teacher must ask for volunteers in the classroom and donations. This tool can minimize the number of places a
parent needs to check-in for reminders, behavior management, grades, and class
activities; therefore, Bloomz should be used when a teacher wishes to
streamline their communication resources.</span><br />
<b style="text-indent: 0in;"><br /></b>
<b style="text-indent: 0in;">Tool Name:</b><span style="text-indent: 0in;"> Edublogs</span><br />
<b style="text-indent: 0in;">Tool URL: </b><span style="text-indent: 0in;">www.edublogs.org</span><br />
<b style="text-indent: 0in;">Cost: </b><span style="text-indent: 0in;">Free, up to 1 GB. Pro version available for $7.95 per month or
$39.95 per year.</span><br />
<b style="text-indent: 0in;">Key Features: </b><span style="text-indent: 0in;">A platform for writing and collaborating,
Edublogs are individual and classwide forums for collaborating and continuing
class based discussions. The interface
is customizable, offering a variety of colors, templates, menus, and widgets,
as well as comment moderation by the designated administrator. Teachers have the option to lock specific assignments
following a due date. Teachers and
students use Edublogs to share current events, thoughts, opinions, and ideas
with each other, parents, and administration.
Publishing work to a public forum gives students valuable online
experience. Students learn editing and formatting
skills, navigation of customizable menus and techniques for working with
hyperlinks. A variety of privacy
options enable teachers to incorporate lessons about digital citizenship. </span><br />
<b style="text-indent: 0in;">Disadvantages: </b><span style="text-indent: 0in;">There are certain media limitations with
the free account. A limited amount of
storage space means students will likely not be able to share large videos and audio
recordings, limiting multi-media capabilities.
There are distracting advertising links in the free version. </span><br />
<b style="text-indent: 0in;">Using this Tool: </b><span style="text-indent: 0in;">Teachers should use this tool to keep
students connected to course materials, news, and important links, from school,
home, or while traveling. Blog posts
facilitate group discussions and support collaborative assignments. Class blogs also support student ownership of
class curriculum, increasing student engagement. Edublogs keep parents well informed with
frequent updates and in-depth writing from a variety of sources; not all
classroom news needs to come directly from the teacher. Lastly, Edublogs are a valuable forum on
which to survey students, ask for feedback, and show interest and empathy in
student experiences. </span><br />
<span style="text-indent: 0in;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-indent: 0in;">Do you have a favorite tool for digital communication? What helps you relay information and form relationships with your students and their families?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">References<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 200%;">Bloomz
(2017). <i>One app for all your parent
communication</i>. Retrieved from </span><span style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">https://bloomz.net/<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-indent: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 200%;">Edublogs
(2017). <i>Easy blogging for education</i>. Retrieved from https://edublogs.org/<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 1.0in; text-indent: -.5in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 200%;">Halloran,
J. (2016). 7 effective parent teacher communication tips [Digital image].
Retrieved from http://hallr.com/effective-teacher-communication-tips/</span><span style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Remind (2017). <i>School
communication shouldn’t be so hard</i>. Retrieved from https://www.remind.com/<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Karyn http://www.blogger.com/profile/05289991052399474983noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-452601080498567718.post-22129928408017239472011-03-26T16:08:00.004-07:002011-03-26T16:30:34.187-07:00Fort Huachuca Redeployment Photos HERE!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MeLQTVfcV1Q/TY5ycnqCmGI/AAAAAAAACSM/R1EgRJsxPX0/s1600/Blog7.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MeLQTVfcV1Q/TY5ycnqCmGI/AAAAAAAACSM/R1EgRJsxPX0/s640/Blog7.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588530023620581474" /></a><br /><br />My heart was a lump in my throat for these families before I even set foot in Barnes Field House. When I had planned to photograph these soldiers arriving home from Afghanistan they were supposed to get in right around dinner time. Text message after text message alerted me to their later arrival times. Finally I set my alarm for 2:30am and headed to bed figuring they would arrive later than sooner. I've been in the shoes of these husbands and wives, waiting on eggshells for the plane to land, waiting and fidgeting as we received word that they were finally boarding the buses at the airfield. It is nearly impossible to wrangle the babies and toddlers, half asleep in their footie jammies, barely understanding the enormity of "daddy coming home"! <br />And so it was, around 3:15 in the morning that they finally filed into the field house, exhausted from their travels, excited to kiss their spouse, hug their parents or children, meet their newborn for the first time. It was a privilege to wander the floor and capture a few of these moments. I wish I could have gotten an image for every single, totally deserving, family there. I've posted some of my favorites here in this blog, to see the rest and save them for your own scrapbook, please <a href="http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=1AZOXDlw5csmFJ ">click on the link HERE</a> to access a Shutterfly album of your redeployment. May God bless you and keep you safe during this time of readjustment and reintegration, and heartfelt thanks for your service to this awesome country!<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dtyC8u8eU-o/TY5yjgOgDgI/AAAAAAAACSk/LL-zsJW3dm0/s1600/Blog2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dtyC8u8eU-o/TY5yjgOgDgI/AAAAAAAACSk/LL-zsJW3dm0/s640/Blog2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588530141885107714" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kxwjGMAQKYQ/TY5yjUKC2aI/AAAAAAAACSc/SsasUMZpe_M/s1600/Blog1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kxwjGMAQKYQ/TY5yjUKC2aI/AAAAAAAACSc/SsasUMZpe_M/s640/Blog1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588530138645191074" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Sk50O1K2c6Y/TY5yc-2S61I/AAAAAAAACSU/gGF0C18Zb70/s1600/Blog3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Sk50O1K2c6Y/TY5yc-2S61I/AAAAAAAACSU/gGF0C18Zb70/s640/Blog3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588530029845998418" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZILdm8-4VBk/TY5ycXyWlPI/AAAAAAAACSE/U32MEJ16gSw/s1600/Blog6.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZILdm8-4VBk/TY5ycXyWlPI/AAAAAAAACSE/U32MEJ16gSw/s640/Blog6.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588530019360478450" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wRK0TE_eMiU/TY5ycY1Nv1I/AAAAAAAACR8/7fAJ2OwSSlw/s1600/Blog5.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wRK0TE_eMiU/TY5ycY1Nv1I/AAAAAAAACR8/7fAJ2OwSSlw/s640/Blog5.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588530019640917842" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q_m8o9-g36o/TY5ycNzqqeI/AAAAAAAACR0/vb8xGbWQwpI/s1600/Blog4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q_m8o9-g36o/TY5ycNzqqeI/AAAAAAAACR0/vb8xGbWQwpI/s640/Blog4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588530016681634274" /></a>Karyn http://www.blogger.com/profile/05289991052399474983noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-452601080498567718.post-53993875382216303162011-03-15T00:05:00.001-07:002011-03-15T00:05:00.522-07:00Reflections<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OnGkJpg72qU/TX7ulpA02KI/AAAAAAAACRs/mMPBEZFN39U/s1600/ReflectionsBWWEB.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OnGkJpg72qU/TX7ulpA02KI/AAAAAAAACRs/mMPBEZFN39U/s640/ReflectionsBWWEB.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5584162918417881250" /></a><br /><br />I cried when I saw this picture download off the camera. It's one of those images that I didn't see completely when I shot it.<br />He turns one year old today. Time has never flown by so quickly. He has surprised us so many times. He himself is a surprise. His quick and easy arrival was a big surprise to me. His easy going nature, relaxed demeanor, patient presence, has all been a delightful surprise. Everyone remarks at how even keeled this little guy is. In fact, the first year has been so mellow in his presence that lately, during play dates, should he express an opinion or distaste he is met by gasps and laughter from the mothers who know him and didn't think him capable of a complaint.<br />This baby is so funny. He is so very charming and coy, flirtatious and giggly. His smile is easy and his tears seldom seen. He's becoming extremely independent. He's fearless. Which of course makes me terrified. Our dining room, leading to the staircase, has become a kind of lock system, similar to those that allow boats to move up and down canals. Multiple gates temporarily stall his progress but it will only be a matter of time, minutes probably, before these baby gates become mere hurdles for this child. <br />I thank God that I am a photographer. Every tiny detail that makes this tiny person unique is bound to change dramatically from month to month over the coming year and sometimes it seems as though I cannot record enough detail and preserve it for all time. Someday he will talk back. Someday he will storm out of the house and slam the door. Someday he will have his heart broken by a girl. Someday he will call home from college and ask for a batch of my cookies, I hope. Someday he may become a father himself... And on those days I will want to reflect back to these easy going times, and the simplest of images..... <br />Happy Birthday Darling Boy!Karyn http://www.blogger.com/profile/05289991052399474983noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-452601080498567718.post-81715424779422042422011-03-14T21:20:00.002-07:002011-03-14T21:43:22.552-07:00Birthday Kimono<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K01uxGYmTrE/TX7pTaKj7pI/AAAAAAAACRk/ybabMW0fm1s/s1600/BirthdayBlog1WEB.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K01uxGYmTrE/TX7pTaKj7pI/AAAAAAAACRk/ybabMW0fm1s/s710/BirthdayBlog1WEB.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5584157107636399762" /></a><br /><br />I don't think she knows this, but my friend Pauline was the first person to know that I was pregnant with my third son. We were newly moved to Fort Huachuca in the summer of 2009 when Pauline called me and introduced herself. We met in person for the first time at Buena Highschool Senior Registration Day. It was on this day I was carrying around the surprising and somewhat overwhelming news that I was pregnant, again, rather unexpectedly, and I confessed this fact to Pauline. I think it's rather common to confess big news to a stranger- after all, you get to release something aching to come out, and practice the words before telling your family, and you probably won't see this person much anyway. Fortunately for Pauline and I, the "not seeing more of each other just hasn't been the case". One year ago at 9:22pm I was in the middle of a blissful, epidural induced, nap. They would eventually wake me up and ask "Mrs. Kuniyuki, are you ready to meet your baby?" And the following day a dear friend would visit me in the hospital to meet my new little man. Over the course of 2010 this friend, Pauline, and I would share countless stories, insights, creative thoughts, realizations that we are two people of very similar tastes, opinions, and interests. Pauline shares many special gifts with our family. The gift of her musical voice and strumming fingers rang out clear on Christmas Eve as we lit luminaries on our historic block. The gift of her friendship, her inviting home, filled with delicious smells and always a fresh cup of coffee. The gift of her love with generous hugs and silly remarks for my children who always giggle and smirk and linger in hopes of another tickle. The list is endless. Today there was an extra special gift. Today my friend produced a treasured family souvenir, a kimono from her days living in Okinawa, a baby kimono just the right size for my birthday boy! Only this friend, a fellow photographer and creative mind, could see the potential images combining my sweet little guy and this precious vivid piece of cloth. Thank you so very much for sharing your many treasures with us, we love you so very much!Karyn http://www.blogger.com/profile/05289991052399474983noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-452601080498567718.post-1279982343087836642011-03-05T23:12:00.000-07:002011-03-05T23:12:00.195-07:00Empire Ranch, Sonoita AZ<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-slkSSxT8AZQ/TWs87Y7xHZI/AAAAAAAACQM/J2d8aVjfHa4/s1600/Empire2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-slkSSxT8AZQ/TWs87Y7xHZI/AAAAAAAACQM/J2d8aVjfHa4/s640/Empire2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578619554431573394" /></a><br /><br />If it weren't for all of the "Beware Of Rattle Snake" signs, I'd be trying to figure out how to <em>live</em> at Empire Ranch! I saw the historical landmark sign by the road a few weeks back and knew that when my parents were here visiting we would have to go back and explore Empire Ranch. It's located about ten miles outside of Sonoita, AZ, to the north, on route 83 which leads to Tucson through some of the most beautiful rolling hills one could hope to drive through. The ranch has an incredible history that is detailed on the walls of the still standing ranch house. There are nature paths and restrooms, essential for traveling with little ones, and is well worth the drive if you bring a picnic lunch and stay a bit. I already have Red River, starring John Wayne, in my NetFlix cue, as it was filmed at Empire Ranch and I'm dying to know what this beautiful property looked like in it's hay day. Check it out if you're local, just watch out for those rattlers!<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qX0H8gA6nig/TWs87DA3pZI/AAAAAAAACQE/UUMncgHhKoI/s1600/Empire1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qX0H8gA6nig/TWs87DA3pZI/AAAAAAAACQE/UUMncgHhKoI/s640/Empire1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578619548547392914" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PCzq8v-idqw/TWs9DZXJAnI/AAAAAAAACQ8/sq6xMqqKKdA/s1600/Empire5.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PCzq8v-idqw/TWs9DZXJAnI/AAAAAAAACQ8/sq6xMqqKKdA/s640/Empire5.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578619691985338994" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FtIWdYDhNMY/TWs9Dd5EWgI/AAAAAAAACQ0/cEYDkCRdXNo/s1600/Empire6.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FtIWdYDhNMY/TWs9Dd5EWgI/AAAAAAAACQ0/cEYDkCRdXNo/s640/Empire6.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578619693201381890" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i9R56-FXxqM/TWs9DA76X3I/AAAAAAAACQs/ydMG04gCwaM/s1600/Empire7.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i9R56-FXxqM/TWs9DA76X3I/AAAAAAAACQs/ydMG04gCwaM/s640/Empire7.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578619685428682610" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LuYpSOKn2e4/TWs87x9zemI/AAAAAAAACQc/cMGXinMkG-o/s1600/Empire4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LuYpSOKn2e4/TWs87x9zemI/AAAAAAAACQc/cMGXinMkG-o/s640/Empire4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578619561151003234" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TlnTTbfWWs8/TWs87pPPowI/AAAAAAAACQU/XeYJjDAmcX4/s1600/Empire3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TlnTTbfWWs8/TWs87pPPowI/AAAAAAAACQU/XeYJjDAmcX4/s640/Empire3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578619558808232706" /></a>Karyn http://www.blogger.com/profile/05289991052399474983noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-452601080498567718.post-39237642406662898952011-03-05T20:18:00.003-07:002011-03-05T20:29:32.707-07:00Gorgeous Baby Blues - Sneak Peek!<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ifjOeSYR5Go/TXL9Qi7PR1I/AAAAAAAACRE/_jJc-RsGdGM/s1600/Blog1Web.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ifjOeSYR5Go/TXL9Qi7PR1I/AAAAAAAACRE/_jJc-RsGdGM/s640/Blog1Web.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5580801348960470866" /></a><br /><br />(If the images in this post appear blurry, click on them individually for a clearer preview.)<br />I'm always really excited when my client is a tiny person. I love tiny people. Sometimes I think I should only photograph tiny people. They are challenging, adorable, always changing, and such a joy to work with. When this gorgeous little man arrived today for his 7 month old portraits I was immediately smitten with his beautiful baby blue eyes and eyelashes that super models would kill for. Seriously, his lashes were almost 3/4 of an inch long! We sat down to chat for a moment on the floor before starting and he relaxed right into my lap, what a doll! I can't wait to present this collection of images to his parents; I don't know this baby well but I know that I captured some of his most treasured "looks" today. Thank you for sharing your precious little one with me today! Enjoy your sneak peek!<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hfjs6Kn0gP4/TXL9Q_k3yWI/AAAAAAAACRM/jRU87cRnv_A/s1600/Blog4Web.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hfjs6Kn0gP4/TXL9Q_k3yWI/AAAAAAAACRM/jRU87cRnv_A/s640/Blog4Web.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5580801356651284834" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5sZG_I81GTU/TXL9RJ_GM1I/AAAAAAAACRc/anzrvrMwnaE/s1600/Blog3BWWeb.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5sZG_I81GTU/TXL9RJ_GM1I/AAAAAAAACRc/anzrvrMwnaE/s640/Blog3BWWeb.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5580801359445635922" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-41ycKq_-b_4/TXL9Q3JNhZI/AAAAAAAACRU/A0gdUx5MmHU/s1600/Blog2Web.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-41ycKq_-b_4/TXL9Q3JNhZI/AAAAAAAACRU/A0gdUx5MmHU/s640/Blog2Web.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5580801354387785106" /></a>Karyn http://www.blogger.com/profile/05289991052399474983noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-452601080498567718.post-77367351445960330862011-03-01T23:04:00.000-07:002011-03-01T23:04:00.787-07:00Eyes On The Bride<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mYwYG0-yt9E/TWs7ABqyrPI/AAAAAAAACP8/GQprQ3FrOCs/s1600/WesternWedding1Web.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mYwYG0-yt9E/TWs7ABqyrPI/AAAAAAAACP8/GQprQ3FrOCs/s640/WesternWedding1Web.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578617435062447346" /></a><br /><br />If I could get married again there are few things I would change. But one thing I always think about it how <em>not</em> clever I was about my details. These days it's my job to notice the little details, and they are everywhere! If I were a bride today I would not shy away from an unforgettable themed wedding, a totally western wedding, or a Hollywood glam wedding. I would definitely wear shoes with bling, or red shoes, or blue shoes, or vintage shoes, or couture leopard print shoes... I would choose a bouquet of succulent cactus instead of roses, I would carry a bouquet made of vintage butterfly pins, YES there is someone who now makes those on Etsy! There are so many ways to make a wedding special, and most of them are a photographer's dream come true... Speaking of dreams come true- I am so desperate for the opportunity to photograph a traditional Indian Wedding I think I would do the leg work for free. Know someone having an Indian Wedding? <br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_hKV8z0WfnA/TWs6_ykYD7I/AAAAAAAACP0/MeLvp-vXssM/s1600/WesternWedding3Web.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_hKV8z0WfnA/TWs6_ykYD7I/AAAAAAAACP0/MeLvp-vXssM/s640/WesternWedding3Web.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578617431009005490" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MGiKE1BHU_8/TWs6_1CkrbI/AAAAAAAACPs/b8Q_9gXGBrM/s1600/Western%2BWedding2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MGiKE1BHU_8/TWs6_1CkrbI/AAAAAAAACPs/b8Q_9gXGBrM/s640/Western%2BWedding2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578617431672532402" /></a>Karyn http://www.blogger.com/profile/05289991052399474983noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-452601080498567718.post-68945341211091192332011-02-27T22:54:00.003-07:002011-02-27T23:23:25.135-07:00Tombstone<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kDIZGfydkms/TWs4_vvzrhI/AAAAAAAACPM/deWzBsFc57I/s1600/Tombstone6.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kDIZGfydkms/TWs4_vvzrhI/AAAAAAAACPM/deWzBsFc57I/s640/Tombstone6.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578615231228390930" /></a><br /><br />It was darn cold, and down right windy, but my photography students from Fort Huachuca braved the elements for a chance to "Photo Walk" in Tombstone. This was our first walk in Tombstone, and in fact we did not walk that far as there are so many characters and distinguished actors milling about the main street it is hard to stray far from the beaten path. Parents be advised that the legends speak in rough cowboy tongues and don't seem to curb their slang for even the littlest of curious ears! And EVERYONE is willing to pose for a snapshot with you, even if only for the chance to whisper something completely inappropriate in your ear... It was a great day, I think my favorite image is the door handle to the Tombstone courthouse, of all things, a door handle, but it sure it "perty"! Our next Photo Walk will be in Bisbee on March 12th, at 9am. Please contact me for information on how to register and join us!<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2pTc-LMgLkY/TWs5ERFm_UI/AAAAAAAACPk/0H4Nlwi-AkE/s1600/Tombstone1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2pTc-LMgLkY/TWs5ERFm_UI/AAAAAAAACPk/0H4Nlwi-AkE/s640/Tombstone1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578615308897680706" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vh0AaZS-fF0/TWs5AB-Y1FI/AAAAAAAACPc/JRnWY4G7w1A/s1600/Tombstone3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vh0AaZS-fF0/TWs5AB-Y1FI/AAAAAAAACPc/JRnWY4G7w1A/s640/Tombstone3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578615236121384018" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E1Fi7nrBNZ0/TWs4__fd5yI/AAAAAAAACPU/N4wtHBRLN8c/s1600/Tombstone2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E1Fi7nrBNZ0/TWs4__fd5yI/AAAAAAAACPU/N4wtHBRLN8c/s640/Tombstone2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578615235454822178" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KuXDlXBFcFA/TWs4_vn66NI/AAAAAAAACPE/kPX9j4th1oY/s1600/Tombstone5.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KuXDlXBFcFA/TWs4_vn66NI/AAAAAAAACPE/kPX9j4th1oY/s640/Tombstone5.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578615231195310290" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M22BJ5AJ_LE/TWs4_cI8ujI/AAAAAAAACO8/eYpcSLvn2i8/s1600/Tombstone4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M22BJ5AJ_LE/TWs4_cI8ujI/AAAAAAAACO8/eYpcSLvn2i8/s640/Tombstone4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578615225965132338" /></a>Karyn http://www.blogger.com/profile/05289991052399474983noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-452601080498567718.post-21164427335557270702011-02-27T22:48:00.002-07:002011-02-27T22:54:52.842-07:00All In The Details<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kvtVVMwcFns/TWs3dPbe6hI/AAAAAAAACO0/Ra4fAWzGv7U/s1600/Wedding1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kvtVVMwcFns/TWs3dPbe6hI/AAAAAAAACO0/Ra4fAWzGv7U/s640/Wedding1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578613538926029330" /></a><br />I LOVE to shoot the details... Gosh, sometimes I think I can spend an entire day shooting the little details, things that most people walk right by. In fact, today even, I was out on the parade field on the post, it had been snowing which is rare in this part of the country, so I was out preserving the details with my camera. I nearly got arrested preserving those details, apparently the Army frowns upon people photographing on the installation. Duh, I realize my husband's office if off limits but the local cactus? Really? Here are some lovely details from a winter wedding, though you can't hardly tell it's winter as we are in the desert.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3__7QvM-BkA/TWs3czikaJI/AAAAAAAACOs/NAI9qnICU6I/s1600/Wedding2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3__7QvM-BkA/TWs3czikaJI/AAAAAAAACOs/NAI9qnICU6I/s640/Wedding2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578613531439556754" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_YMFEKzo834/TWs3c_sofQI/AAAAAAAACOk/ZrznRl0e2Po/s1600/Wedding3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_YMFEKzo834/TWs3c_sofQI/AAAAAAAACOk/ZrznRl0e2Po/s640/Wedding3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578613534702992642" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lDbTW4qgpxY/TWs3clMeUCI/AAAAAAAACOc/yktvfSTek5c/s1600/Wedding4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lDbTW4qgpxY/TWs3clMeUCI/AAAAAAAACOc/yktvfSTek5c/s640/Wedding4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578613527588786210" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DVBtnaOwEVA/TWs3ceUX9AI/AAAAAAAACOU/_QcuNIawbAI/s1600/Wedding5.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DVBtnaOwEVA/TWs3ceUX9AI/AAAAAAAACOU/_QcuNIawbAI/s640/Wedding5.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578613525742875650" /></a>Karyn http://www.blogger.com/profile/05289991052399474983noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-452601080498567718.post-72880978778979077972011-02-23T16:07:00.004-07:002011-02-23T16:20:37.061-07:00Stunning Saguaro<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7RjATIiQKDU/TWWTrSUR-vI/AAAAAAAACN8/zhsLCwX9H9A/s1600/SE1Web.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7RjATIiQKDU/TWWTrSUR-vI/AAAAAAAACN8/zhsLCwX9H9A/s640/SE1Web.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577026085428787954" /></a><br /><br />(If the images in this post appear blurry, please click on the image itself, it will open in a new window and look a lot better!)<br /><br />Every time my parents visit from New York we try to explore some place new. Last week we took them to Saguaro East National Park on the eastern side of Tucson. We arrived at around 3pm and stayed until sunset. You wouldn't think that in the middle of winter there would be much to photograph. In a few weeks everything will be in bloom, and in the middle of summer the monsoon storms will roll in from the mountains and create fantastic light and clouds. But right now everything is that dull brown characteristic of winter desert. Just makes you work that much harder to study the lay of the land. I think I have about fifty awesome macro shots from the day, it will be a miracle if I ever get to play with them and post them. The kids are just so busy and into everything these days. But here are a few that jumped out at me. The full moon rose that night as well. Of course, those busy kids had had enough of traveling, they were hungry and tired and sick of being in the car. I got to snap three or four shots off the side of the road as it crested the Rincon Mountains, and that was all.... This place is well worth the visit, bikers beware, there are some serious hill climbs should you choose to cycle the 8 mile loop!<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BTMrlgEuwzc/TWWTrEi5zpI/AAAAAAAACN0/l-rwM-Q6cZA/s1600/SE3Web.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BTMrlgEuwzc/TWWTrEi5zpI/AAAAAAAACN0/l-rwM-Q6cZA/s640/SE3Web.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577026081732021906" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dazzwKrDc3U/TWWTq2wvXEI/AAAAAAAACNs/VZ-KpXXMdm0/s1600/SE4Web.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dazzwKrDc3U/TWWTq2wvXEI/AAAAAAAACNs/VZ-KpXXMdm0/s640/SE4Web.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577026078031961154" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-agR8KJmEX9o/TWWTqr-2KtI/AAAAAAAACNk/L0mIgxjX-Kw/s1600/SE5Web.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-agR8KJmEX9o/TWWTqr-2KtI/AAAAAAAACNk/L0mIgxjX-Kw/s640/SE5Web.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577026075138337490" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CTClitUs8wk/TWWTqXHuenI/AAAAAAAACNc/61diP53P0SE/s1600/SE6Web.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CTClitUs8wk/TWWTqXHuenI/AAAAAAAACNc/61diP53P0SE/s640/SE6Web.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577026069538437746" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ljooivsdQlQ/TWWTy-mjETI/AAAAAAAACOM/BqLPACkZdfI/s1600/SE10Web.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ljooivsdQlQ/TWWTy-mjETI/AAAAAAAACOM/BqLPACkZdfI/s640/SE10Web.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577026217575649586" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vgYGNuARD8c/TWWTy9DKrnI/AAAAAAAACOE/Ne69opf6kKQ/s1600/SE9Web.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vgYGNuARD8c/TWWTy9DKrnI/AAAAAAAACOE/Ne69opf6kKQ/s640/SE9Web.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577026217158815346" /></a>Karyn http://www.blogger.com/profile/05289991052399474983noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-452601080498567718.post-65789523464666577782011-02-23T14:18:00.005-07:002011-02-23T14:39:47.264-07:00A Few Favorites<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_Ir2pM55vDQ/TWV77vWG61I/AAAAAAAACNU/yh1DZvOV6zA/s1600/T7Web.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_Ir2pM55vDQ/TWV77vWG61I/AAAAAAAACNU/yh1DZvOV6zA/s640/T7Web.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576999979819920210" /></a><br /><br />(If the images in this post look blurry on your screen, click individually on the image you want to look at. It will open in another window and appear much clearer.)<br /><br />I've had the privilege of working with this young lady several times as she graciously volunteers to model for all of the Photo Walks I lead for Fort Huachuca. Recently we took a group of seven photography students to Bisbee, AZ, to roam the streets and practice portrait lighting techniques. The morning was really beautiful, if not a little chilly. We were shooting on Brewery Gulch, a street that at 9am boasts sunshine on one side of the street and shade on the other. It was the perfect situation in which to learn about bouncing and reflecting light and then diffusing the light for that perfect glow. All of these shots were taken with natural light, no flash, and come straight out of the camera except for resizing and watermarking. Flawless skin, gorgeous girl, glorious morning = perfection! Thank you "T" for always volunteering and honoring our every request!<br />A couple of these shots feature my students in action, just thought I would throw in a little perspective. If this kind of event sounds like fun, we have another walk scheduled for Saturday, February 26, at 9am. Please contact me for details! We also have additional walks coming up in March! <br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-twTnYndXLtU/TWV6FMeTKaI/AAAAAAAACNM/CTZ7gnoowsY/s1600/T5Web.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-twTnYndXLtU/TWV6FMeTKaI/AAAAAAAACNM/CTZ7gnoowsY/s640/T5Web.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576997943234472354" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FZiLKUcQ3Eo/TWV6E_yFM3I/AAAAAAAACNE/JPWePXQh5NM/s1600/T1Web.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FZiLKUcQ3Eo/TWV6E_yFM3I/AAAAAAAACNE/JPWePXQh5NM/s640/T1Web.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576997939827782514" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-czd3kOT5FPY/TWV6EnYNSgI/AAAAAAAACM8/uBr6ngrDPi8/s1600/T2Web.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-czd3kOT5FPY/TWV6EnYNSgI/AAAAAAAACM8/uBr6ngrDPi8/s640/T2Web.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576997933276809730" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V4VZkzbS-qI/TWV6ETpIhcI/AAAAAAAACM0/Eaqiw2m4ugc/s1600/T3Web.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V4VZkzbS-qI/TWV6ETpIhcI/AAAAAAAACM0/Eaqiw2m4ugc/s640/T3Web.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576997927979091394" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XkQG-kA8HgI/TWV6ER_S9LI/AAAAAAAACMs/iKXDctJphak/s1600/T4Web.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XkQG-kA8HgI/TWV6ER_S9LI/AAAAAAAACMs/iKXDctJphak/s640/T4Web.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576997927535178930" /></a>Karyn http://www.blogger.com/profile/05289991052399474983noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-452601080498567718.post-37643142187230171722011-02-14T14:54:00.000-07:002011-02-14T14:54:00.540-07:00Saint Valentine was a Knight...<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TUiBQ0st9iI/AAAAAAAACMg/t2LWs01Giw4/s1600/ValentineBlog.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TUiBQ0st9iI/AAAAAAAACMg/t2LWs01Giw4/s640/ValentineBlog.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568843065267713570" /></a><br /><br />Saint Valentine was said to be a knight.<br />Just thought you should know.<br />In a house full of men, one must twist the details of this delightful holiday,<br />to engage the interest of those less interested in flowers, candy, and the mushy love stuff.<br /><br />If you think this is a clever Valentine, which we made into stickers and gave out to friends with candy, check out the uber creative mother behind the concept at <a href="http://www.milasdaydreams.blogspot.com/">Mila's Daydreams</a>.Karyn http://www.blogger.com/profile/05289991052399474983noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-452601080498567718.post-75758941645419074832011-02-10T14:53:00.000-07:002011-02-10T14:53:00.127-07:00"Oh!"<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TUiBAJ65WCI/AAAAAAAACMY/b1p_epIvZ2M/s1600/Blog1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TUiBAJ65WCI/AAAAAAAACMY/b1p_epIvZ2M/s640/Blog1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568842778906548258" /></a><br /><br />This was literally The Bundle's very first reaction to seeing snow. Can you hear him? It was more like "ooooooooooooooh!" and it was stinkin' cute! Gosh I'm in love with my little people, they are so charming!Karyn http://www.blogger.com/profile/05289991052399474983noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-452601080498567718.post-36917312468423921762011-02-06T15:07:00.000-07:002011-02-06T15:07:00.267-07:00Winter Wonders<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TS4mMWTJ2aI/AAAAAAAACLo/prB6e8NEXgg/s1600/WinterBlog.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TS4mMWTJ2aI/AAAAAAAACLo/prB6e8NEXgg/s640/WinterBlog.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561424583435344290" /></a><br /><br />Winter in the desert can be a total bore. I like to take this time to go for long walks with my camera and really look at the landscape in search of hidden beauty. I'm really enjoying "fractals", which are naturally occurring patterns, but I'll save that for another post. My kids love to harvest these seed pods and then stomp on them to watch them break open and float away in the wind. I don't come home with a hundred pictures on these walks, but I always come home reminded that if I just slow down and look, there is always something beautiful waiting for my lens.Karyn http://www.blogger.com/profile/05289991052399474983noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-452601080498567718.post-75153510409306896382011-02-04T14:52:00.002-07:002011-02-04T14:52:00.145-07:00Coming Soon! Tombstone Photo Walk<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TUiAyqB-lHI/AAAAAAAACMQ/q1OwSZMSyvo/s1600/Tombstone%2BWalk%2BBlog.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TUiAyqB-lHI/AAAAAAAACMQ/q1OwSZMSyvo/s640/Tombstone%2BWalk%2BBlog.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568842547008017522" /></a><br /><br />Wish you knew a little more about how to capture the essence of your town? Wish you knew how to use your camera's settings? Wish you knew more about light and how to make it look awesome? You should consider joining me for a photo walk!<br /><br />What is a photo walk? A three hour walk through an amazing local nook, complete with models in period dress! I will show you what to photograph, how to do your subject justice, how to find the best light, and how to walk away with the best images your camera can create!<br /><br />On February 26th, from 9am-12pm, I will be leading a photo walk through the town of Tombstone, Arizona. I am working on behalf of the MWR Arts & Crafts facility on Fort Huachuca. Call their office at 520-533-5550 to register for this class and get all the details about meeting our group!Karyn http://www.blogger.com/profile/05289991052399474983noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-452601080498567718.post-626002555676478982011-02-03T12:00:00.000-07:002011-02-03T12:00:06.487-07:00Sweet Dreams<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TUiARcgtHtI/AAAAAAAACMA/6vgx3njC86A/s1600/BlogSleepyWeb.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TUiARcgtHtI/AAAAAAAACMA/6vgx3njC86A/s640/BlogSleepyWeb.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568841976443117266" /></a><br /><br />Could anything be more precious than a napping infant? Even after they overtook your marriage bed the night before? Even though their little feet remained wedged firmly in your rib cage through the wee hours of morning? Even though they camped out at the breast for eight hours straight? Yes, nothing could be more precious....Karyn http://www.blogger.com/profile/05289991052399474983noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-452601080498567718.post-1687747175039659482011-02-01T14:49:00.000-07:002011-02-01T14:49:27.648-07:00Motherhood<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TS4mZkZ0kpI/AAAAAAAACLw/3sXEed7lfPA/s1600/CCBlog.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TS4mZkZ0kpI/AAAAAAAACLw/3sXEed7lfPA/s640/CCBlog.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561424810559705746" /></a><br /><br />Nothing compares to scooping up your baby and having them cling to you, hug you, rest their head on your shoulder, nothing. Awhile back we were at the playground, my friend and I with all of our kids, with cameras in hand. Granted, with four little ones and my youngest finally mobile and getting into everything, we seldom get more than 5 clicks of the shutter before someone gets injured, has been assigned the role of "monster" and no longer wants to play, or needs to be hoisted into a swing... I met this friend when she attended my digital photography classes offered through the Army, and she is such an eager student, I just love when she calls and wants to get out to "play" with her camera. So on this day we got talking about sun flare and in the briefest of moments I demonstrated where she should stand her subject, and where she should shoot from, and I think I took three frames before I was blinded by the sun. When I got home I found this picture and man, does it ever make my heart flutter when I capture a great shot of a wonderful person in my life!Karyn http://www.blogger.com/profile/05289991052399474983noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-452601080498567718.post-12437982750438696532011-01-26T15:09:00.000-07:002011-01-26T15:09:00.468-07:00Horsin' Around<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TS4mouBzpEI/AAAAAAAACL4/DGXdmi8MA4w/s1600/HorseBlog1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TS4mouBzpEI/AAAAAAAACL4/DGXdmi8MA4w/s640/HorseBlog1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561425070841373762" /></a><br /><br />I seldom photograph people's pets, it's a really hard business, requires a lot of time and patience, it is almost exactly like photographing toddlers in fact. My girlfriend rescued this horse this year. She has nursed it back to health, groomed and trained for hours, rebuilding a trusting relationship between human and mare that was no doubt completely ruined by the previous owner. Her love for animals is admirable, she has a touch, a way with living creatures, it is her gift. I got home from this afternoon of play and have a handful of great shots of my friend with her horse, but for some reason I keep going back to this one. It's playful, it's magical, it's bright and sunny, I can't explain it but I love it.Karyn http://www.blogger.com/profile/05289991052399474983noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-452601080498567718.post-86598836433882264712011-01-21T15:05:00.000-07:002011-01-21T15:05:00.133-07:00A Boy, His Girl, and a John Deer...<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TS4l3FdSceI/AAAAAAAACLg/Vb7MpMn5McA/s1600/GatorBlog.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TS4l3FdSceI/AAAAAAAACLg/Vb7MpMn5McA/s640/GatorBlog.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561424218137194978" /></a><br /><br />Friends of ours live out in the country with land to roam, a fence to keep cars away and kids close, and it's a great place to go and let the children run. It's also a fantastic place to let them learn how to drive! We all laughed as this scene played out, the two of them driving off into the setting sun, but in the back of my head I thought, this exact thing is going to happen for <em>real</em> some day and I will probably be crying.Karyn http://www.blogger.com/profile/05289991052399474983noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-452601080498567718.post-30074094344163969532011-01-16T15:04:00.001-07:002011-01-16T15:04:00.651-07:00Ten Months Old, Ten Times More Motion!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TS4liXr7DcI/AAAAAAAACLQ/UNLeIn5Xv9w/s1600/10months.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TS4liXr7DcI/AAAAAAAACLQ/UNLeIn5Xv9w/s640/10months.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561423862253161922" /></a><br /><br />Ten months already. He can stand, he has figured out that if the music table is on hardwood flooring he can push it around and actually walk from place to place as though it were a walker. He has his favorite kitchen cupboards, cooling racks and cutting boards all over the kitchen floor every evening as I cook supper. He smiles more than anyone I know. He babbles and makes noises with his tongue that make the rest of the family hoot with laughter. He is adorable, and he totally knows that we are all wrapped around his little finger. He isn't a big boy. He's very tall, but lacks the rolls of baby fat his brothers both had. Probably because he eats healthier than all of us combined. He gets mostly homemade baby food and has a voracious appetite, in fact that is the only time you will hear him scream or fuss, if you aren't shoveling dinner fast enough. And then he wants down again, to crawl, and stand, and scoot, and boy is he fast! He is predictable, as though God looked down upon me and thought "she has three, and this one was unexpected, so he will be an absolute joy, an easy baby." For all of this I am grateful.Karyn http://www.blogger.com/profile/05289991052399474983noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-452601080498567718.post-59468775387385513212011-01-12T15:01:00.003-07:002011-01-13T14:11:26.131-07:00A New Year, A New Pace<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TS4k8T9484I/AAAAAAAACLI/gyqv9haKdWU/s1600/BoysCollageBlogWeb.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TS4k8T9484I/AAAAAAAACLI/gyqv9haKdWU/s640/BoysCollageBlogWeb.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561423208419750786" /></a><br /><br />Nearly a month has passed since I last blogged. Darn that felt good. And, to be honest, it felt right. I took the month of December off to spend some uninterrupted, unrushed, quality time with my family. Goodness knows I was still taking pictures, but I was also building gingerbread houses, decking the halls as creatively as one can with kids helping, and hosting "tea time" in the afternoons where my boys took to calling me "mother" with pretend accents, which I secretly really like. My boys have changed so much in the last three months, and not just The Bundle, who is sprouting teeth and mastering forward motion faster than I can blink away an eyelash! The Boy is about to wave goodbye to his "lady love", a precious preschool friend for whom his heart throbs, as she moves away to Fort Hood, in Texas. My Middle Man has decided that the toilet is a fine invention worth his time, and now we investigate the restroom of every facility we visit, at least twice. Every day leaves me in awe and I find myself thinking that this time, this age where they want my help, are hungry for my hugs and kisses, and happily climb on my lap for a dozen books, is not going to last as long as I'd like it to. I guess I always thought that everything would get easier as they all got older, but in fact no, with three on the move now, I am feeling like something has got to give. So, I've made some decisions, scaling back on work, which will include less frequent blogging, and I'll be saying the word "NO" a lot, to the adults in my life, and not so much to my kiddos.Karyn http://www.blogger.com/profile/05289991052399474983noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-452601080498567718.post-26934108008319468502010-12-10T07:15:00.011-07:002010-12-10T12:25:16.868-07:00The Custer's Last Stand<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TQI2elWZ7DI/AAAAAAAACKc/Y_3nR6Sq6RQ/s1600/Blog2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TQI2elWZ7DI/AAAAAAAACKc/Y_3nR6Sq6RQ/s640/Blog2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549057589923933234" /></a><br /><br />(For a larger and clearer image, click on the pictures individually.)<br /><br />Wednesday was a crisp, sunny, winter morning. It was a morning that has been scheduled and cancelled several times, a fact that has been the root of many jokes and speeches in past months. On this very special morning, Fort Huachuca finally bid farewell to a Command Team like no other, Major General John Custer and his wonderful wife Audrey. <br />I first met Audrey Custer at a spouses coffee hosted at her home just a few short weeks after I arrived at Fort Huachuca, 2009. Knowing I was one of the most junior spouses on the block I made certain to be on time. Knowing I was one of the most junior spouses, I was nervous. I was the <em>first </em>one to arrive... But as Audrey gracefully fluttered around the house with final preparations, her easy nature instantly set me at ease. She was relaxed. She was kind. She was and always has been, in one word- LOVELY. How a woman with a lifetime of experiences under her belt makes everyone in her presence feel an equal, I can only hope to learn and portray myself some day. Words cannot express the impact this woman, this couple, has made on our post. It has been an honor to watch them command, to applaud their success, and to enjoy their company as neighbors and friends.<br /><br />I set out on Wednesday with camera in hand, not to capture the cliche Change Of Command images that twenty other photographers on the field would certainly cover, but to record the essence of the day: Colors waving beautifully in the wind that whips down Huachuca Canyon, the 36th Army Band drumming out a toe tapping march, the smell of fresh red roses honoring a spouse's hard work and sacrifice, yellow roses as bright and cheerful as the sunshine welcoming Brigadier General Potter's wife into her new role. While most of the cameras were focused around the podium I had the delight of wandering the parade field, my favorite place to be, seeing the sequence of events from the vantage point most are not permitted. It is there that General Custer and General Potter begin "trooping the line" together; why exactly was that final contingent situated 15 feet behind the rest of the formation? Nearly skewering the command party walking by? It will certainly remain a distinct memory from the ceremony, but that is no longer the concern of General Custer as he relinquishes command, retires from the Army, and embarks on a new path, a civilian path, with bride Audrey still steadfast by his side, and a major retirement home renovation on the horizon. The formation on Brown Parade Field, situated in front of historic Quarters 1, the Pershing House, which the Custer's had the privilege to call home during their command at Fort Huachuca, was an amazing send off, and it was a honor to witness every smile and salute! <br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TQI2eKCkcMI/AAAAAAAACKU/d4XmnIMAjoc/s1600/Blog1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TQI2eKCkcMI/AAAAAAAACKU/d4XmnIMAjoc/s640/Blog1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549057582592979138" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TQI2fsmEapI/AAAAAAAACKs/eDSaTu-8FFY/s1600/Blog4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TQI2fsmEapI/AAAAAAAACKs/eDSaTu-8FFY/s640/Blog4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549057609048550034" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TQI2fBy3OxI/AAAAAAAACKk/EFXh-wnqpb4/s1600/Blog3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TQI2fBy3OxI/AAAAAAAACKk/EFXh-wnqpb4/s640/Blog3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549057597559487250" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TQI2S9W4sJI/AAAAAAAACJs/5HsR0CNIBvI/s1600/Blog5Web.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TQI2S9W4sJI/AAAAAAAACJs/5HsR0CNIBvI/s640/Blog5Web.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549057390209970322" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TQJazqYEZII/AAAAAAAACK8/4bWjRlQydf8/s1600/Blog10.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TQJazqYEZII/AAAAAAAACK8/4bWjRlQydf8/s640/Blog10.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549097534468940930" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TQI2TsttzsI/AAAAAAAACJ8/6RFJX4W6leE/s1600/Blog7.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TQI2TsttzsI/AAAAAAAACJ8/6RFJX4W6leE/s640/Blog7.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549057402922192578" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TQJVziwbRZI/AAAAAAAACK0/JBXrrlHJ_ys/s1600/Blog9.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TQJVziwbRZI/AAAAAAAACK0/JBXrrlHJ_ys/s640/Blog9.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549092034865481106" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TQI2UMHQfdI/AAAAAAAACKE/my7i9zNpHLg/s1600/Blog8.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TQI2UMHQfdI/AAAAAAAACKE/my7i9zNpHLg/s640/Blog8.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549057411350822354" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TQI2Te11WdI/AAAAAAAACJ0/W5eCkI2LWxg/s1600/Blog6.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TQI2Te11WdI/AAAAAAAACJ0/W5eCkI2LWxg/s640/Blog6.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549057399198144978" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TQI2UrHz6PI/AAAAAAAACKM/viNeC_6Rvic/s1600/CavChargeWeb.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TQI2UrHz6PI/AAAAAAAACKM/viNeC_6Rvic/s640/CavChargeWeb.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549057419674642674" /></a>Karyn http://www.blogger.com/profile/05289991052399474983noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-452601080498567718.post-80402164455122867192010-12-05T00:00:00.000-07:002010-12-05T00:00:00.421-07:00Three Of Everything!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TPsRuC3fw-I/AAAAAAAACJk/UDrPd4wRHNg/s1600/3rd%2BBday%2BCollageWEB.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TPsRuC3fw-I/AAAAAAAACJk/UDrPd4wRHNg/s640/3rd%2BBday%2BCollageWEB.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547046848778191842" /></a><br />Happy "Birth" Day to ME! And a very Happy Birthday to my Middle Man! He was my most difficult to bring into this world, in fact, after his birth I proclaimed that there would be no more babies. So why should it be any surprise that he remains my most challenging child to date?! I'm praying that the terrible twos are over with, that the threes are going to be filled with patience, calm, and wonder, or at least many visits from a loving baby sitter and a spa gift certificate. He loves art, music, Star Wars, sweets, and his lovey. He also loves Darth Vader, and is affectionately known around our house as "The Prince Of Darkness" for more than one reason. He loves chicken nuggets, but won't eat real chicken. He hates the mere mention of a toilet, shoelaces that come untied, and food that doesn't resemble plain noodles with butter. As I sat tonight looking for nine of my favorite images, trying to find the faces I see on a daily basis, including the sour ones, I was flooded with love for this amazing tough guy. I was reminded of his sensitive nature, which makes him extremely tender towards others. I was reminded of his incredibly charming habits, his mischievous grin, and the joy he shows when playing Big Brother to our new Bundle. I didn't find so many images of him enjoying the little brother role he plays, insight for Mommy to pay more attention to I guess. He has fears, and great concerns. He wants a Buzz Lightyear for Christmas, and a Backhoe Front loader that beeps and talks. He is a complicated little fellow. He is the spitting image of me, then and now.Karyn http://www.blogger.com/profile/05289991052399474983noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-452601080498567718.post-42039162221227894132010-11-29T15:59:00.002-07:002010-11-29T16:02:38.604-07:00Happy Thanksgiving!<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TPQwX8HeysI/AAAAAAAACJU/qWP2rCKFINA/s1600/IMG_6264web.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TPQwX8HeysI/AAAAAAAACJU/qWP2rCKFINA/s640/IMG_6264web.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545110229032553154" /></a><br /><br />It was a relaxing and relatively quiet weekend spent at home. No out of town guests, no friends over, just the five of us; a mom, a dad, and three savages... I have some cute pictures from the weekend, the kids helping with the cooking, none of which they ate, and I mean <em>nothing!</em> But for now, a very Happy, very simple, Happy Thanksgiving from our home to yours!Karyn http://www.blogger.com/profile/05289991052399474983noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-452601080498567718.post-26999734911278374372010-11-29T15:18:00.002-07:002010-11-29T15:22:22.109-07:00Until I'm Blue In The Face<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TPQmxQxGfyI/AAAAAAAACJM/nb9cgm82z-k/s1600/GVweb.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yzhI58lTbdQ/TPQmxQxGfyI/AAAAAAAACJM/nb9cgm82z-k/s640/GVweb.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545099668956282658" /></a><br /><br />No, I didn't leave him alone with a marker. No, he isn't showing school spirit for Michigan. Yes, he is breathing just fine. If you've never heard of Gentian Violet, it's an herbal supplement used to treat some conditions associated with brestfeeding. He is being treated; it stains EVERYTHING. You can readily see which fingers he favors. This was just too funny not to post. And during the week we had our family portraits scheduled! Fortunately it went away in time.Karyn http://www.blogger.com/profile/05289991052399474983noreply@blogger.com0