Wendy Z

My Blog Has A New Home!

2009-05-04T22:54:00.002-04:00

I am so excited to finally start on my new blog. Go ahead and bookmark this new link: http://wendyzphotography.com/blog/

--as I won't be posting here anymore. It still needs some tweeking, but it is on its way. Thanks for following me to my new home!

Great Strides 2009

2009-05-02T15:40:00.007-04:00

Rain or Shine. I walked on "Team Daniel" with this wonderful family this morning, at the state capitol in Sacramento. All funds raised go toward funding the research for a cure for Cystic Fibrosis. Their son, Daniel has CF.

Nicole with their daughter, Alyssa.

You can watch a video about Daniel and his everyday life by clicking the following link.
Great Strides 2009

You can find a Great Strides Walk in your area here.

This one is for you Jeramy, since I learned this morning that you are rarely on the lens side of the camera. A man who loves the camera, possibly more than me??

Dad with Alyssa, Daniel and Matthew.

My Dad's 70th Surprise Party!

2009-04-25T17:13:00.002-04:00

Well, he was surprised. Dad turned 70 last weekend and his wife Gayle planned a surprise party in Minnesota. It was so nice to see my aunts and uncles that I haven't seen in over 20 years. Many of my parents' friends from Springfield were also there. It was a fine day!

In this bottom collage you can see dad with his 2 brothers and 1 sister. They don't look at all alike, do they?

New Residents at Our House

2009-04-24T12:59:00.000-04:00

Scott was leaving today and noticed that when he opened the door to our house and bird quickly flew away. We looked closer to find a tiny nest in our front door wreath. In it are 4 little eggs. This will be very exciting for the boys. "No Touching-Only Looking"! I love practical teaching experiences.

No Words Needed!

2009-04-23T18:17:00.004-04:00

Brownie Troop Rocks! | Fairfield Children's Photography

2009-04-20T19:12:00.002-04:00

I got off my plane from Minnesota (pics later this week on that) and headed to my photoshoot with this adorable Brownie Troop! We had fun at the park with the Gliders they made and were testing out, then we got down to some more "formal" shots. They were so much fun! Here are a few of the sweet girls!

I AM

2009-04-11T11:43:00.005-04:00

This was one of his writing activities at school. A paper about them. It was also the first assignment where they got to type their paper on the computer. Cooper is a total sponge right now, soaking up everything around him. BTW-"I am hot" he told me means, "like temperature". We got a giggle out of that one.

Preschool Storyboards

2009-03-30T18:04:00.001-04:00

There were so many wonderful pictures of the kids at the Preschool that I wanted to give parents an option for purchasing more than one pose. The perfect solution? A storyboard. Here are 2 different storyboards I created for this project. They also had names on them, but I deleted for security. The bottom one looked really awesome with a red border as well.

Preschool Part 3 | Vacaville Children's Photographer

2009-03-29T17:59:00.001-04:00

This is the last of the Preschool Portraits. I loved doing these. I certainly will be out pounding the pavement for more preschools in the fall and spring of next year. They are so much fun!

Preschool Part 2 | Vacaville Children's Photography

2009-03-27T17:51:00.004-04:00

Here is Part 2 of my preschool portraits. One more to follow. Enjoy!

Jay Reilly "Shoot the Kids" Workshop

2009-03-23T23:28:00.003-04:00

This past weekend I took a break from daily life to attend the "Shoot the Kids" Workshop with Jay Reilly in San Deigo. The best part about the trip was that I met Michelle, one of my girlfriends that I met almost a year ago at a MeRa Koh workshop, there. It was so much fun to be together again and totally talk shop for 24 hours or so. She also brought along her friend, and now my new friend Lailah. I can't wait to see them again.

Here are some of the images from the weekend. The first few are of these two adorable girls that were best friends, as well as models already. Very sweet and down to earth-their moms were as well.

Here is Jay Reilly, metering off his hand.

These are the last family that we took to the beach. We found this cool car in a parking lot on the way there. It's all about location.

And here are the two lovely ladies-Lailah and Michelle. Check out their sites and blogs in you are in the Santa Cruz area and need a photographer.

More Preschool-Part 1 | Solano Children's Photographer

2009-03-19T11:32:00.003-04:00

I am finally able to post more preschool pictures. All these kids were so cute and ready to be in front of the camera. A few were shy, but I think going in groups of three allowed them the security to "be themselves". The Director was also a fabulous help. I can't wait for Fall Portraits. I will be posting more of these adorable little ones in the coming days, but here are some for today.

Is there an Alien in my lens??

2009-03-15T15:46:00.002-04:00

I was practicing "flare" with my lenses the other night and got this "flare" from my 50mm 1.8 lens. Weird, huh? If there is an alien in there, he/she is very happy!

Spring Has Sprung! | Fairfield Family Photographer

2009-03-13T14:09:00.003-04:00

I love spring! Warmer temps, tree blossoms, daffodils, tulips, and the pesky early-rising birds outside my bedroom window. Okay, maybe I don't love the pesky birds. But everything else is heaven in my book. There are these two streets on the way to Cooper's school that are completely lined with flowering trees. I love it!

Sneak Peek at Preschool Pics! {Vacaville Children's Photography}

2009-03-08T20:55:00.004-04:00

As many of you know, I have been consumed with Preschool Portraits the last couple days. Although they are ready to go live in a couple days, I can't post any photos except this sweet little thing. I can't believe I got all of these pics when she wanted nothing to do with the camera--I guess that is why they are so enjoyable! I will hopefully have more cuteness to blog about in the coming week. They were all so stinkin' cute--with a capital "C"!!!

Newborn Sneak Peek | Fairfield Newborn Photography

2009-03-03T22:29:00.005-05:00

Okay, so we were pushing the newborn thing a little bit. This little guy usually has his sleepy time in the morning, but not this morning---up the whole time. His eyes melted me--and his hair, oh his hair, how adorable! We even got his big brother in a couple shots. Enjoy your sneak peek, It was wonderful meeting you today.

As sweet as a Cupcake!

2009-03-01T00:37:00.001-05:00

She is just too cute! I have to take pictures of her every time I see her. This is my good friend's litte munchie! She has grown up before my eyes. I first met her and her mommy last April at the MeRa Koh photography workshop and have been extra special blessed to now live by them for a couple years.

The Sweetest Little Belly-and Couple! | Fairfield Maternity Photography

2009-02-20T16:49:00.002-05:00

I had the wonderful opportunity to photograph the sweetest couple yesterday. She is such a trooper for sitting and lying on the wet ground. And-he--well he is the perfect "model" husband. I think he actually liked the camera. Enjoy! I can't wait to get a hold of that little girl! You two were awesome.

By the way-these were taken with my new camera. More on that later. It arrived at my door 20 minutes before this shoot. I am in love with it!

I Hope Injuries Are Not in our Near Future

2009-02-11T06:22:00.000-05:00

I knew I would be freaking out the whole time with these new skateboards. I want them to see older kids doing tricks and stuff, but then they think they can do them as well. It totally FREAKS me out when they get on them. We took them to a skatepark the other day to "have the experience".

Spiderman-spiderman...

Doing the things a spider can.

Calling All Newborns and Pregnant Mommies-To-Be | Solano County Photographer

2009-02-10T16:14:00.003-05:00

I am needing to add to my portfolio in these categories so...RIGHT NOW-Photo sessions for Newborns and Pregnant Mommies-to-Be are over 50%off. I will only be doing 3 of each at this price. Tell your friends! Newborns need to be under 2 weeks. Please go here to my Client Session Info to read more about a newborn photo session. There are a couple tips in there about a maternity session as well.

My Three Men | Fairfield Family Photography

2009-02-06T16:37:00.001-05:00

More pictures from the hill the other night. I love getting daddy with the boys because it doesn't happen very often. I have a camera-shy man!

I LOVE THIS KID!

2009-02-03T10:59:00.004-05:00

We are fortunate to live by these gorgeous hills in Sunny California. Scott came home from work and made us all hike up a hill last night. Cooper is so into reading right now that he had to take his book with him, even though I ended up carrying it. We stood at the top for a little while and I captured this. How cute is this!

I Take 'Em You Print 'Em Pricing for 2009 : Fairfield Family Photography

2009-02-02T15:54:00.006-05:00

Words of Wisdom

2009-01-30T23:42:00.003-05:00

I found this on one of my favorite blogs today. When I searched for it on google I found it all over the place. I think we should all read something like this often. I hope you like it!

Take time to play with your kids more. Silly play. Run around with them. They love it.

Sit and cuddle your kids as much as you can.

Make sure everyone knows how much you love them. Sometimes you never have the chance to tell them again.

Don't sweat the small stuff. Some things just don't matter. They mean something, but they really don't matter.

Hold yourself accountable.

Remember that everyone has a bad day once and a while. Just like you.

Don't get offended. Assume that whomever said it, just didn't get it out right.

Give others a break. We are all fighting our own battles.

Remember that people aren't always going to remember what you said, But they will always remember how you made them feel. Make them feel special.

There are too many people out there who need someone really bad. Be that someone.

Sometimes all someone needs is a shoulder to cry on. Give it to them and really listen.

Don't keep your distance. We are all supposed to be taking care of each other.

Life isn't about us, it's about everyone else.

Sometimes the simplest things to you, mean the world to someone else. Give it to them.

Live by example.

Have Faith.

Remember . . . Life is Good.

2009 Bloggie Award Time-GO VOTE!

2009-01-26T00:31:00.004-05:00

I sometimes can spend hours getting lost from blog to blog each time I sit down at the computer. What the heck did I look at before "blogging"? For those of you whom loose track of time doing the same thing-go vote for your favorite bloggers. The Pioneer Woman is quite impressive this year! Others that I like to keep tabs on are Bakerella and Joy the Baker. Vote Here!

We Love Gadgets!

2009-01-19T12:49:00.004-05:00

Many of you know that our family loves GADGETS! Anything new, technology-wise, we have to try out! Well this past week I have found something that I have grown to love very quickly. The SMART SHOPPER grocery list organizer! Ever since the boys were born, my short-term memory is gone. Besides my calendar, I always forget something at the grocery store because I forgot to put it on the list. I am bustling around the kitchen making something and realize there is not a piece of paper around and I tell myself, "I will write it down later." Well later comes and I can't remember what it was I wanted to write down in the first place.

I saw this thing on the TV one day and it "called" me. THE SMART SHOPPER takes a little getting used to but is one of those gadgets that I feel "money well spent". When I think of something for my grocery list, I walk to my fridge and press a button, say the item and the little thing stores it. The magnet on the thing is super strong!
It has a very large list of items pre-programmed in it, but you can also add things that are not programmed in it, like "Ovaltine". The best thing about it though is when I am ready to go to the store it prints out this little list all organized into categories. WOW! Love it!

My Sweet Sister's Family

2009-01-17T13:25:00.002-05:00

While my sis was here from chilly Minnesota I was able to do a quick photo shoot with them. Max is completely full of energy and could only be photographed in his element. I love the first picture, he has that look like he is totally up to something. The rest are a some of my favorites.

More on the cousins together to come.

2008: A Year In Review

2009-01-04T12:17:00.006-05:00

2008 was another great year for me. I finally put a passion of mine in the forefront of my life and pursued it as a career. My professional photography business started in 2008 so I want to take the time to thank all of the wonderful families that I have had the privilege of meeting this year. From Virginia to California, SUPER families all over the place!

I have put together a slide show to commemorate my journey in photography this past year. The images that I have chosen are my personal favorites...ones that I have become "emotionally attached" to for one reason or another. I could have included 50 more images, but I didn't think people would sit that long to watch. Thank you for inviting me into your homes and lives. I can't wait to make more memories in 2009!

Thank you Tony Hawk!

2008-12-31T12:26:00.003-05:00

Because of this pro skateboarder, Tony Hawk, my 4 year old thinks that he can do all those cool tricks like "walk the dog" and "ride the pipe" on his new skateboard. I fear for his life everytime he gets on the thing, but he is actually doing pretty well, xmas pj's and all.

Sledding

2008-12-29T18:58:00.004-05:00

Another wonderful thing about California is that you are never too far from snow in the mountains. We took grandma back over the mountains yesterday and stopped to go sledding with the boys. We got in and out of there without any injuries-which is a miracle in itself when you see the chaos of people sledding down a very narrow pass in the trees. The boys had a great time! The view was incredibly beautiful!

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-24T13:33:00.002-05:00

It looks as though Santa already came to our house, but it was just Nana and Papa! Merry Christmas Everyone!!

Hopefully by the end of the week, Scott and I will be enjoying the peace and quiet of a Hawaiian beach. I'll keep you posted.

I Have Been So Blessed!

2008-12-16T23:23:00.002-05:00

Since starting my photography business here in California, I have been incredibly blessed with the families that I have had the privilege of meeting. They have all been incredibly kind, personable and just plain "Amazing"! This family was no exception. She contacted me as a referral from a previous client and I couldn't have been more pleased with the results of their very quick mini-shoot last weekend. We were dodging the storms and managed to get half sun and half clouds, with quite brisk temperatures. Three precious girls and two parents that were sweeter than PIE! I hope to photograph them again when the temps warm up and there are leaves on the trees.

Gingerbread House Time!

2008-12-14T12:32:00.005-05:00

Gingerbread House making is taken very seriously at this house. The boys LOVE doing this! Target has the best housemaking kit around, which makes this activity relatively painless. They only need to invent a kid frosting sqeezer!

The Elf on the Shelf Has Arrived!

2008-12-09T07:33:00.000-05:00

I am blogging this a couple days late, but last week the Elf arrived at our house. My girlfriend, Julainne introduced me to the Elf last year. He arrives at your house, with this great storybook about who he is, what his job is and the rules to his "magic" (if you touch him, his magic goes away). We have named him "Zip", I know, not so original. He is hear to report to Santa if you are "good or bad". Each morning he moves so that he can watch over them everywhere. Zip is quite a hit as each morning they race down to see who can find him first. Love this guy. Now to figure out how Zip is going to take the old Gameboys to Santa, so he can turn them into Gamestop to get money off of shiny, new Nintendo DS's. Does Santa know about Gamestop???

Sneak Peek-It's A Small World | Fairfield Family Photography

2008-12-08T13:17:00.002-05:00

Living the "Air Force Life" and "It's a Small World" go hand in hand. This weekend I was fortunate enough to photograph this completely sweet family. Small world in this case means that 4 years and 3 moves ago, this two were our next door neighbors in the Great Northwest. And now, here we are living in the same area again-not neighbors this time. Can you believe it! I am so glad that our worlds have met again.

Well on to the shoot-these little girls are "to die for" cute! They were serious troopers as toward the end of the shoot it was getting pretty chilly.

I had to capture this-I thought the shoot was over at this point...

Then in the next moment-I had this. Girls really are different than boys!

These are the two that lived next to me, single (without children), devoted and completely adorable. Now looks how both of our lives have changed. You guys rock! Thanks for the wonderful afternoon.

Sneak Peek-Wonderful Family! | Fairfield Family Photography

2008-12-04T00:34:00.002-05:00

My last shoot of the weekend was this "all-american" family that was so much fun! Their children are the most stunning young adults-inside and out! They totally put me at ease and were so welcoming. It was hard to pick a few photos from this shoot. Here are three that were on the top of my list:

Thanks "W" family! You guys ROCK!

Sneak Peek! Model Shoot | Fairfield Children Photography

2008-12-02T07:20:00.000-05:00

I think this little guy was used to being in front of the camera. We had a blast doing this quick little shoot, so he could build his portfolio. It was a pleasure meeting the whole family on such a beautiful day!

Sneak Peek!-Another Sister Team | Fairfield Family Photography

2008-12-01T11:48:00.004-05:00

I started this past weekend with another awesome sister team! Two families with four gorgeous children!

This sweet thing was along for the ride. Boy, did he love the grass!

His big brother had the most chocolate brown eyes ever!

This brother-sister duo was full of personality!

I couldn't resist adding this pic! One of my favorites of the session.

Thank you girls! I had so much fun with you all!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-26T14:22:00.001-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving to Everyone! I wish you safe travels, good food and relaxation!

They Make My Job So Easy! | Fairfield Family Photography

2008-11-25T05:46:00.001-05:00

I love this Family! We have know each other for the past 5 years ago. Seems like wherever we have been stationed lately, they are there also. They made getting those "unposed" moments very easy. Thank you so much for making my job "a-piece-of-cake" this weekend. Here is a sneak peek for you:

Sneak Peek-Mini-Shoot | Vacaville Family Photographer

2008-11-24T17:27:00.004-05:00

This sweet family has such a calming sense about them. Makes me want to just slow down! The "little guy" finally warmed up and gave out some great smiles. Thank you for the opportunity to photograph your family this holiday season. I loved it!

I just could resist! | Fairfield Children's Photograher

2008-11-21T16:41:00.005-05:00

I couldn't resist these blue eyes again. I did their family photos a couple weeks ago, but wanted to do more of the baby, so when I saw him with this chocolate brown shirt on, I had to grab my camera. The whole family is completely munchable! They blue eyes have not been enhanced more than the general "punch".

Sneak Peek!-Stunning Family | Fairfield Family Photography

2008-11-17T20:09:00.000-05:00

A beautiful family + a gorgeous day = one great family shoot! This is the way I ended this past weekend. Thank you so much for letting me capture your family. It was wonderful to meet you!

Milk Mamas, Inc.-Check them Out!

2008-11-17T12:51:00.000-05:00

If you are in the need for super-duper mommy/baby products, look no further. These two sisters, who happen to be the gorgeous blondes in my blog yesterday have started a company called Milk Mamas Incorporated. All the products are completely useful and very "hip" indeed. They have a store right now on Ebay and soon you can find them at http://www.milkmamasinc.com/ For all you mommies out there, they have done all the "weeding out" of the disappointing products and only make the best available to you. In the market?-Check out the Milk Mamas.

Sneak Peek-Two Beautiful Families and Grandpa!

2008-11-16T13:40:00.011-05:00

Delight is the one word that comes to mind when I think of the family I was fortunate to photograph yesterday. Two sisters and their families plus Grandpa! Everyone in the family could not be sweeter. Their last name should be "Sugar". Thanks for hanging in there guys-I realize it was a football day and the little ones were done after the first hour. Here is a "Sneak Peek" of some the great memories we captured. More on the sister team in my next blog!

Beach Pictures from Santa Barbara

2008-11-13T11:40:00.004-05:00

I guess that I am blogging totally backwards for our trip to LA. I haven't even blogged about the actual Disneyland trip. Don't worry-it's coming! We took the long way home up the coast through Malibu and Santa Barbara. Here is a slideshow of the boys on the beach after lunch. You can also click on the picture below to get to the slideshow.

In Search of Neverland Ranch!

2008-11-12T07:11:00.004-05:00

While the boys were asleep and we were on the right highway already, I couldn't resist searching for Neverland Ranch about 4 miles off the freeway yesterday on the way home from Anaheim via the coast. I used to be huge Michael Jackson fan (before the kid stuff happened). I thought for sure we would see something. But all we got was this guard shack at the gate. It is nestled behind the mountains. Couldn't see any sign of life or the tip of any rollercoaster.

It has changed dramatically since the initial Neverland Ranch gate. It was the only gate down this mountain road so we pretty much thought this was it and it felt good to snap away while driving like the paparazzi.

Pretty sad about the property. Go here to see what has become of Neverland Ranch.

Be Proud for Those who Fight for YOU!

2008-11-11T13:53:00.003-05:00

Whether they are young veterans of our recent wars or older veterans that made history--Please Be Proud of all Veterans not just today, but every day.

They give their lives and their families give their loved ones for our freedom! There is no greater courage than that!

Rockin' Redhawk!!

2008-11-05T19:58:00.000-05:00

Cooper was also chosen to be the Rockin' Redhawk of his room last week. We are completely proud of him. They get to sit in this cute little desk for the week with the trophy. During the week, each of his classmates has to write about him. This is what some of his friends said about him:

"Cooper is a cool friend."
"Cooper turns his homework in on time."
"Cooper listens to Mrs. Corley."
"Cooper is nice to friends and helps them when they get hurt."

We had fun reading those the other night. Way to go Cooper!

Late Halloween Pics!

2008-11-03T19:51:00.006-05:00

I am just going to have to put them all into a bunch. These were some of my pics from last week. For the 4th year in a row, we had Star Wars characters in the house. I sure am glad they came up with real names like, Captain Rex and Commander Cody, for what would normally be called just a "Clonetrooper". I also through in my favorite pumpkin picture. Sorry for the short post. We are getting ready to go to Disneyland, so my time is very limited.

Blue X10!

2008-10-28T00:34:00.003-04:00

Here is a quick look at the sweetest family with the hugest BLUE eyes I have ever seen. I did this very quick shoot for them before church on Sunday. We were trying to get a couple family shots for the holidays, but I couldn't resist the individuals of the kids. The eyes absolutely scream DELICIOUS!! I can't wait to get them to the beach when little man is walking. Thanks K for allowing me to photograph you all!

Book your Holiday Mini-Session Today!

2008-10-26T22:15:00.002-04:00

Time is ticking! Call or email me through my website if you would like to take advantage of this offer. What is best about this offer is that it will be Virtually Painless for Husbands or Teenagers! Offer good on mini-sessions taken before December 5th.

Sunset in California

2008-10-24T22:07:00.002-04:00

Here is Cooper, Caden and our little neighbor boy. They are buddies! I love sunset!

What's My Style? | Fairfield Family Photographer

2008-10-20T23:44:00.012-04:00

I love my style of photography! Call it Lifestyle or Photojournalistic...my style makes photo shoots so much fun and very creative. It captures those moments between family members that we all want to remember forever. I offer something that is on the other side of the spectrum from what "traditional" photographers offer. Clients choose me because they are looking for something different, fresh and fun!

With that said, as you look at my work you may notice that some things are different than what you might be used to seeing...

I like to Crop it in Tight! This means I shoot a lot of super close close-ups where the face fills up most of the frame. They eyes are so focused on that sometimes I crop off the top of the head. I intended to do that!

I like interaction with each other vs. "everyone look at the camera"! So much is told by how people interact and look at each other. I love to capture those unique moments. I will ask for those very few posed moments, but I will mostly be snapping away and you won't even know it. So if there are pictures where no one is looking at the camera...I intended to do that!

I don't look for all Smiles! Smiles are not always needed for that great photo. I love to capture a calm demeanor as much as a big grin. I intended to do that!

I like to tilt my camera! To add dimension- I tilt my camera. So when you see a picture that is not sitting perfectly vertical...I intended to do that!

I Rarely Center the Subject! The most boring position for a subject in a photograph is right in the middle! Trust me! I like to apply the "Rule of Thirds" design tip to enhance visual interest. So if you wondering if I know how to center a subject... I do, but I intend not to!

Photographer's Unite

2008-10-17T19:39:00.004-04:00

The other day a couple of my photographer friends came over for some "shop talk". We also got outside to get some photos of ourselves for website uses and such. I now know how my clients feel after being on the other side of the camera. I have to share a couple:
Sharon looking stunning!

Maggie is such a great model!

Nicky has the sweetest smile and a very cool camera strap! I am so glad I met you.

Rolling Hills Elementary Storyboard

2008-10-15T21:38:00.006-04:00

I was lucky enough to photograph some students with the tiles they made for this awesome tile display at our school. It looks so cool! This was a PTO project in coordination with Bella Terra on Main and J.L. Designs Flooring.

Shinneyboo Creek

2008-10-13T11:50:00.005-04:00

Scott planned this brief get-away this past weekend to the mountains. The poor guy wants to fish so badly! He found this great little cabin at Shinneyboo Creek, about 15 miles west of Truckee. We had no idea what we had in store for us. We were pleasantly surprised to see the place. A cute little cabin in the middle of nowhere with mountains, streams, and the rest of the wilderness right outside our door. The boys were in heaven. I also have to add, this is my idea of "camping"--a cabin to go home to with gas heat, running hot water and wireless internet! Here are some pictures from the weekend. It was quite chilly there. I think we woke up to 18 degrees. I was prepared with winter hats and coats, as well as I tore the tags off of the Christmas fleece pj's a couple months early. I do have to say "Shinneyboo, I think we will be back!"

I Miss Teaching!

2008-10-08T11:56:00.009-04:00

Let me preface this post by saying I love my life right now. I am starting a new photography business, staying-at-home with the boys, and volunteering for numerous things keeps me pretty busy...

But there are some days when I miss teaching. I would love to teach elementary school again, but I can't possibly leave Caden in someone else's care all day. I know a million moms out there do it, but I just can't. I left Caden for lunch bunch the other day at his preschool and I think the extra 2 hours he was there was harder on me than it was on him.

To make matters worse (in a good way), I have been volunteering in Cooper's classroom once or so a week since the beginning of the school year. He is at the greatest school and I think I have the greatest teacher in that school. She is one of the best First Grade teachers I have ever witnessed. She is so kind to all the children. She talks in this voice that I wish I had at home more. She uses positive reinforcement to motivate those that are not doing something appropriate. She is a well-oiled machine and never wavers! So where am I going with this???? Well, when I am in there, I have this intense desire to teach again. She makes me want to teach again.

I have to say that I am lucky enough to know the stages of reading development and that the decoding stage sometimes is a mystery. Yes, all the word association, word families, sight word activities and everything like that gives them the base knowledge, but some still struggle with "stretching" out the words and knowing what they read. One day children are completely struggling getting through a story and the next day, "BOOM", they have got it! That is what I loved most about teaching first grade-seeing the "light bulb" go on. I do believe there is just that perfect time when the "light bulb" goes on and the kids are able to decode new words and really start reading. Well this happened in our house within the last couple days. Last night Cooper picked up a Magic Tree House book and read to us during nighttime read-aloud. Folks-HIS LIGHTBULB HAS COME ON!!

My heart nearly lept out of my chest. I am so proud of him. He is not really fond of "school work" but does it and does it good! So when this new level of reading erupted in him-I can do nothing but serious praise in hopes that he begins to fall in love with reading and books! This morning he got out all the books he made in kindergarten and read through each one. He thought his drawings that he made in some of them were quite funny. I think he is on his way!

Although this is a wonderful thing-it reminds me of how much I loved teaching!!! At least I can fulfill a little bit of my desire to teach again at home with the boys. I will teach again someday-when my husband is retired and fly-fishing all day. He says it will be my turn. But for now-I will just stay behind my camera and fulfill my dreams of doing something creative that gives back to others!

Holiday Mini-Photo Sessions announcement coming tomorrow!

I LOVE FOOD--And--I LOVE FALL!!!

2008-09-29T12:33:00.005-04:00

I love Fall! The morning air is so crisp and the colors so incredible. It is so fun to think about new foods that you certainly wouldn't make during the hot summer months. This thought lead me to my list of favorite foods for the cooler months. It is as follows:

1. Chili

2. Casseroles (referred to as "Hotdishes" if you are from MN)

3. Pumpkin anything and everything, including Pumpkin Spice Lattes!

4. Apple crisp and these yummies from "The Pioneer Woman".

5. Tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches

6. Thanksgiving dinner-as traditional as it can get!

Do you have a favorite food that makes you think "Fall"?

Hula-Hoops at Night

2008-09-25T10:39:00.003-04:00

I had no idea that Cooper learned how to hula-hoop this year already. I was very impressed.. Thank you school! Here are some pictures-is it really getting dark out at 7:15 already! Fall is here...

My Website is LIVE! Check it out!

2008-09-23T17:28:00.003-04:00

Wendy Z. Photography is finally online. I couldn't look at it anymore so I went live with it, since I can still make changes after it is up. Check it out and let me know what you think. YEAH!

Baby Steps!

2008-09-15T12:04:00.004-04:00

Things for my photography business are starting to fall into place. My new business cards arrived. Aren't they cute! They can hardly be anything but cute with my little "model" on there. Thanks Chloe!

I also got in two sample albums from my printing company. I actually used these samples as my Portfolio Albums. I love this album-it's called the Modern Album. The pages are extremely thick and the overall quality of the printing and binding is amazing. My pictures of this album do not do it justice!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY COOPER!

2008-09-11T06:57:00.001-04:00

Last night he went to sleep as a 6 year old.

I can't believe that I now have a 7-year-old. Wow! 6 is still "little" to me, but 7 is certainly "big". He has got a smile and laugh that is totally infectious! We recently learned at our cousin's wedding that he also has rhythm.

I LOVE THE BEACH!

2008-09-10T00:33:00.001-04:00

There is just something about being on a beach or in a beach town. Our little get-away to Pacific Grove was so wonderful. Beach towns are so calm. Residents are so friendly. The scenery is breathtaking. So many great restaurants to choose from. The kids love the ocean-no matter how cold. The air smells so clean. Walking two miles seems like it was only a block. And-the kids crashed as soon as their heads hit those pillows.

We went down near Lover's Point at sunset during low tide to see if we could do some tide-pooling. The boys would have much rather just played wave-tag! I tried a new look on the beach pictures. Modern Aged! I think it worked for some, but not for others. It is so hard to not keep the brilliant color of the water and the sky in pictures like these. But they also had some incredibly conflicting clothes on-trying to keep warm! What do you think?

Sisters

2008-09-09T00:06:00.005-04:00

Why is it so hard to get a good pic of these three sisters?? I am venturing to guess that all three are having a wonderful time and that they can't all keep quiet at the same time! Someone was always talking, laughing or making some kind of face. This is why they are all so much fun! Aren't they too CUTE!

Maybe they just needed their brother to stop the silliness!

Or the 4th sister!

Or they just plain couldn't look into the sun anymore! What a great looking group!

I'm Back!

2008-09-07T23:38:00.004-04:00

I am so behind in LIFE right now! I have been working day and night trying to get the details surrounding my Photography Business all in order here in California. Look for my new website in the next week or so.

I did take time away from it all last weekend. Scott's last single cousin got married in the Pacific Grove/Pebble Beach area. It was a blast! The best was watching all the "little cousins" play with each other. We have never had them all together. Here are a couple of collages of them.

We are so blessed to be living close to all of our cousins for the next couple of years. I hope we have many more play-dates to come!

Cooper's New Classroom

2008-08-18T08:11:00.002-04:00

Yeah for First Grade!! Cooper was all ready to go this morning.

This is Cooper with his new teacher, Mrs. C. (for security purposes) Her classroom was set up very much like I would teach, which is what I usually look at first. Looked great! Made me want to teach again.

I am so excited for him but I am also feeling a little uneasy about the start of this "new" school, based only on the memories of the great kindergarten year we had. Things that are making me uneasy, that I will have to come to grips with them, since there are no alternatives:

1. A classroom of 22ish with one teacher vs. a classroom of 21 last year with 3 teachers.
2. A drop-off/pick-up system that I am unaware of vs. the very secure car-pool lane at Mary Williams last year.
3. Out of the classroom bathrooms vs. in the classroom bathrooms.
4. I loved that kindergartners were able to go to the computer lab (since we have raised "nerds") vs. no computer lab at our new school.
5. A classroom full of desks vs. a classroom of tables in kindergarten.

I know these are little things, but remember I am a teacher at heart.

I will get used to all the changes. Cooper will soak it all in. He is so excited about the Accelerated Reader chart on the wall and that he gets to take reading tests on the computer. This morning I walked him to his room and he turned to hug me and said "I love you Mom!" I wanted to cry. Sweet thing!

My Sister is Having a Birthday Today!

2008-08-15T14:47:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday to my one and only sister!

Victoria is this brilliant, and I mean brilliant--Architectual Historian who teaches our nations youth to be just like her-or they should want to be just like her. She is this wonderful mother, who 2 1/2 years ago didn't know how much a toddler could run her life. She is a fabulous wife who supports her husband in everything he does. And that leads us to what a great SISTER she is!! She supports me in all my new adventures. She loves me unconditionally! She knows when to hang up the phone if the conversation has too many distractions (screaming kids, etc). She is the greatest Aunt to my boys and so much more. I love you SIS!

Sneak Peek-Three of the Sweetest Kids Around!

2008-08-09T04:37:00.003-04:00

This photoshoot was a ton of fun. The children, (even my 2) remained extremely cooperative the entire time. We tested out two locations in the area. Nut Tree Plaza is just filled with great color on the walls, the chairs, and even the garbage cans. We then traveled to a park close to my house so the kids could do something they wanted to do after they were done with me. Thank you so much for a GREAT SHOOT!!

Jelly Belly Factory

2008-08-08T15:58:00.006-04:00

We had dear friends, nearly family, in town this week. Our first item of business was the Jelly Belly Factory tour. I think as parents we hope that the tour is worth it and that the kids get to see "cool" stuff. Well, we were not disappointed here. When you see huge drying racks and conveyor belts loaded with colorful jelly beans, what is not to like! There was tons of history and we were not rushed through the place, so the kids took all the time they wanted to looking at everything.

Waiting for the tour to start.

The recipe books with our souvenir pack of Jelly Belly's were a big hit!

Ella eating a Jelly Bean

Topped off with Jelly Bean shaped pizza!

I also did my first photo shoot in California. Look for a sneak peek tomorrow!

2008-08-02T11:16:00.003-04:00

Many of you who know us, know that we love food, good food and all kinds of food.

On our last day alone, while the kids are at Nana and Papa camp, we went into San Francisco and took in the sights-and some great food.

We started our day at Dottie's True Blue Cafe. I had read on the internet that it was the best breakfast anyone had had. So as we rounded the corner we saw the line, only about 20 people deep. Now may I let you in on a little fact--I have to do some serious pre-brief to let my husband know that we will be standing in line and that we are going to do that because this is a once-in-a-lifetime thing, blah, blah, blah. Without complaint from him we hopped right in and listened to some great San Fran conversation from the other in the line for about 50 minutes. Thank God people were coming out of the restaurant saying "it's worth the wait". We finally got seated in this tiny (10 table) diner right at the bar that overlooks the chef/owner cooking. Perfect spot! The food was amazing. With my full meal, I had this 1/2 order of Coconut-Chocolate Chip with toasted pecans- french toast that was out of this world. I think the secret was in the bread.

This meal could have lasted all day except then my husband decided he didn't want to ride the trolley, we would walk "it off" to the pier (which is on the other side of San Francisco-2 1/2 miles away). Up and down 30% grades, through Chinatown we made it. We had to try some little seafood appetizer at the pier, because we were "by the ocean". I pretty much knew that I couldn't put any more food in my belly at this point, but then we found this crab and shrimp ceviche. Yum!

We ended walking back to the car as well, so all in all, I think we walked 6 miles or so. We made it out of SF just before traffic got bad and we decided to head toward Sonoma. I wanted to take advantage of our last few hours without the boys, as they do not do well while Mommy and Daddy are wine tasting.

Domaine Carneros was our destination for wine today. This breath-taking building sits up on this hill and is just inviting you to come in. So we did and ended up doing the sparkling wine and Pinot Sampler with a cheese plate. It was a perfect ending to a wonderful day together.

On a side note-Do you ever think some things were meant to be???
Well we were sitting at our table at Carneros and talking with our wine guy, when the girl next to us said, "oh we left our kids at home, too". We started talking about where home was, found out they were prior military and were now living in St. Cloud, MN. MINNESOTA-are you kidding me? We had so much to talk about. In the conversation I heard her say to him something about med school, and so after I found out he was a Doc in St. Cloud, I said you must have heard of my uncle and cousins. He did know them and "boy, isn't it a small world sometimes". I could've hung out with these two all night. Something about Minnesotans.

Second Day without Kids!

2008-07-31T11:16:00.003-04:00

Today I am off to Napa to shop main street (which I could never get my husband to do with me), and the outlet malls. If I get too "shopped out", I may hit a winery. The boys are at Nana and Papa's house for a couple more days. They are having a blast, they even swam in Lake Tahoe yesterday. BRRR. Thank you Nana and Papa. Gotta go, time to shop!!

The Tooth is finally Out!

2008-07-29T10:25:00.005-04:00

Cooper's tooth finally came out yesterday, but not in the most conventional way. The boys were goofing around and Caden put a knee right into Cooper's mouth and "Wala", no more hanging tooth. Now we wait for the next loose tooth to fall out, but Cooper says he doesn't need Caden's help next time.

Hmmm, I see braces in his future.

They pick it up-Somewhere

2008-07-28T10:28:00.002-04:00

I keep telling Scott that the kids are listening. It may seem as if they aren't but they can do things, like play computer games and listen to what is going on in the living room at the same time. He keeps saying "they're not listening".

So Caden came into where we were watching TV yesterday morning and said to daddy. "Daddy, I know a new bad word". Thinking he was going to tell us something harmless, daddy asked him, "What is it Caden?" Caden looked straight into Daddy's eyes and with perfect annunciation said "Holy Shit!"

We tried not to laugh until he left the room.

When All Else Fails-Make It Yourself!

2008-07-23T16:13:00.003-04:00

We have been in our rental home for about a 1 1/2 months now. After painting 3600 square feet in the home we own over the last 2 years, I have vowed to make-do with any paint color in our rental home. The boys' rooms in our rental home are decorated with an Army theme and a NASCAR theme, so of course it was a big toss-up as to who will sleep in the Army room, since "Army Dudes Rule". But that decision came easier than expected and there were no tears shed over the decision. Since we don't watch NASCAR, we needed an idea for that room. It just happened to be the very colors of LEGO Mission to Mars so that is what we started on. I copied this picture off a download on the LEGO website, and I couldn't paint fast enough for Cooper to see the end result. Then this great idea came to me. Why don't the boys design their own art for their walls. The only rule, you had to use colors that your walls were already painted. So this morning we painted. (Painting tip-To avoid getting paint on clothing-don't wear clothing at all!)

This is Cooper's Art:

This is Caden's Art:

Notice both are back to the Army theme, with tanks and helicopters. Oh well, it works and it is also a great momento of their drawing skills at this age.

Too Much Spongebob!

2008-07-20T23:09:00.003-04:00

You know that your children have watched too much SpongeBob when your children are fighting and one takes a Bionicle from the other and he turns around, throws his fist down and screams "Oh Tarter Sauce!".

So Lucky!

2008-07-18T10:38:00.004-04:00

Remember that weekend in April when I attended the Me Ra Koh photography workshop? It really has changed my personal path in life. First of all, I was so lucky to have gone, and now that it is over, I am so lucky to have 7 wonderful new friends, 1 of which I now live 12 minutes from. Sharon is one of those girls that you just want to be around. She exudes life!-A good Life! Here she is doing what she does best. My luck doesn't run out around them-she has girls-LOTS of girls. Mary Rose is such a natural model. Jane finally let me get close. And I couldn't resist Maggie's "hug me" shirt.

Sneak Peek-My Mom and Ardy

2008-07-16T12:06:00.005-04:00

While my mom and her husband Ardy were here this past week, I was able to do a mini-shoot with them. Here are some of the favorites:

I love this one of mom, she is so happy!

San Fran-We'll Be Back

2008-07-12T22:45:00.001-04:00

While my mom and Ardy were here the last couple days, we ventured to San Francisco for a day of sightseeing. I have never been there before, so we were going on things I found on the internet to be fun for the boys, but also something that Mom and Ardy would like to do. We had a full day and I now know that we could easily spend another day there. We didn't get to the Pier, the zoo, the Exploratorium, Alcatraz. Okay, maybe 2 days. One main reason we will return is to see the Golden Gate Bridge in its entirety. Below is the only view we had. It was so foggy on the coast. Really strange that our home-1 hour inland was 105 degrees.

We did find this really cool playground in Golden Gate State Park. The boys could've spent all day there.

Then we went to Ocean Beach in search of food and sand. We had a great lunch at The Beach Chalet and then we headed to the beach. It was chilly and windy, so this was a short-lived stop, but just enough for the boys to get chased by some waves.

Our last stop before driving over the Golden Gate Bridge was to find the crooked Lombard Street. We were successful and the views were breathtaking. Ardy calls me a true photographer-driving down a crooked road and taking pictures out the window at the same time.

Crazy Around Here

2008-07-07T19:55:00.004-04:00

I can't imagine living anywhere else. We chose the best house to rent and the boys are loving it! Both boys have reached a new level of swimming just by being in the pool every day. Things are kinda crazy around here so I will leave you for today with some pictures from our jumping contest the other day.

Always the last to Photograph

2008-07-01T15:33:00.004-04:00

I think that it's true-a photographer's family is always last to get a photo shoot. I decided before Cooper's front teeth fell out that I would do a photo-shoot with the boys. We tried out two local parks in our new area. And the boys loved ending at a park with the shooting fountains. So we all got wet, clothes and all. A great treat for them!

Lesson learned-it is harder to photograph your own children. Here are some of my favorites.

Just when you think you are calling someone in India...

2008-06-29T19:10:00.002-04:00

"Thank you for calling Dell Tech Support, this is Cooper and Caden, how may we help you?"

Loose Teeth at Last~

2008-06-20T22:53:00.005-04:00

I don't quite think this is the way it is supposed to happen, but the front bottom two teeth are loose as this new permanent tooth pushes its way in behind. Cooper is very excited about his loose teeth! He asks every day "Is it going to hurt when my teeth fall out?".

A Very Sweet Family!

2008-06-17T07:28:00.001-04:00

I did a mini-photo shoot for this family before I left Virginia. The dad wanted nothing to do with my camera in front of him, so he was a HUGE trooper!! I literally shot about 130 pictures in 10 minutes. I got the best picture of Daddy when he was sitting in the car trying to get everyone else to leave. I am so glad I got to take your pictures before I left. I miss you guys! Here are some of my favorite shots.

Journey to our New Home

2008-06-16T19:25:00.001-04:00

I can't believe it has been nearly 2 weeks since my last post. We are finally here and opening the last few boxes. The house is great! The boys love their new pool and the adults love the new hot-tub!! We have really scored for two years on a home. Below is our backyard oasis:

The trip here was as tolerable as it could be for being in a car for 6 days straight with the boys.

PlayStation was a LIFESAVER in so many ways!!

We were followed across the country by all sorts of weather from tornadoes in the midwest to snow in the Rockies. Yes, that is my man leading the formation in the truck in front of me.We made many stops along the way. The first was the Air Force Museum in Ohio. What a fabulous place!

The San Rafael Swell in Utah. This was a much needed time for the kids to get out and do some climbing.

We were so thankful that 4 of the 5 nights we were able to stay at Air Force bases. The playgrounds right outside our lodging were all the kids needed after sitting in the car all day.

But made is safe and sound to Nana and Papa's house for a much desired home-cooked meal! We stayed for a couple of days with them so the boys could help Papa with "chores", like manure clean-up and weed-wacking. They also got up on the horse for some riding.

On Sunday made it over the mountain to our new house and the first course of action was swimming in our very own pool. The boys would live in there if they could, but then I wouldn't get anything done. It is now a week later and we are finally getting somewhat settled, trying to find our way around town and have even had our first house-guest. Our friend, Chris came to visit after a business trip. We had a blast catching up and the boys enjoyed the extra adult in the house, too.

Saying Goodbye

2008-06-01T22:45:00.004-04:00

Saying Goodbye is getting so hard, especially when you now have children that are old enough to remember involved. But when I married the Air Force man that I love, I knew this would happen and I have to look forward as well as cherish the memories and friendships I made over the past two years. So today we pressed on and at 10pm pulled into our first stop in Ohio. We are staying in the cutest little "cottage", fully equipped with 2 bedrooms, a kitchen, den, tv room, formal dining room, 2 bathrooms, laundry room, screaming fast internet and a fully stocked bar!! The boys are fast asleep but will be so excited to see that they can ride their bikes in our driveway tomorrow morning before we hit the museum. Our day is somewhat a short drive tomorrow-only 6 planned hours. I will try to update each day this week so you all know that we are making our way across the country. And if you don't know by now, I am a security freak, so you all will have to keep guessing as to where we really are. Sorry!

House Echoes

2008-05-30T21:31:00.002-04:00

The moving truck pulled away today. I forgot how the house echoes without anything in it. We are cleaning tomorrow and then hitting the road. The boys are exhausted from playing with friends all week. It will be harder to say goodbye this time.

Almost There

2008-05-28T21:37:00.003-04:00

The packers have finished, so for 2 days we live in a house of boxes, all sleeping in the same room, eating take-out and sharing the same bathroom--it's a very "bonding" time. The boys are getting excited for our "big adventure" in the car. I am trying to remain somewhat calm with a large number of stressors in my life right now.

I have finished my family shoots. Thank you so much to everyone who jumped at the chance for photos so I could start building my portfolio. I can't wait to get to California to start my business. Below is a slideshow with some of my latest photos. I apologize for putting them all together. It just saves me time tonight. Now I am off to clean the refrigerator. FUN!

Latest Photo Shoots in DC

2008-05-28T21:36:00.002-04:00

Time in DC is Running Short and More Sneak Peaks!

2008-05-21T23:15:00.003-04:00

Life is getting completely crazy around here. Here are a number of things I am trying to do at the same time these days:

Wash all the clothes in the house so I can pack suitcases for 10 days on the road and get others put away before the packers come on Tuesday.

Planning and executing dinners with things left in our pantry and freezers-this can be very tricky. For example, tonight's entree included sauted corn dogs with Grey Poupon glaze served on a bed of brown-edged lettuce. This came with side of Sponge-Bob GOGURT and a freezer-burnt vegetable medley. Drinks included 2 Diet-Rite cream sodas that everyone avoided for the past 2 years.
Throwing away any unneeded stuff in our house, so I don't have to open a box in California and find a place for it. So long to my husbands' parachute pants that he was holding onto, to hopefully pass onto Cooper in case break dancing made a comeback in 2015. On my end, the "Tuesday night underwear fashion show" resulted in many numerous "totally granny" votes from my husband, and I was subsequently able to reduce the collection by 50% (Victoria Secret here I come!!)

Trying to keep 2 boys satisfied as I slowly put their toys in baggies and boxes.

Planning activites for a 8-day car ride across the United States with a 6 and 3-year-old. The boys are now old enough to know that moving sucks, our new home is really, really far away, Auto-Bingo is not all Mommy cracks it up to be and that this trip will obviously result in high levels of rear-end pain. Daddy has also convinced them that his very important job of "flight lead" requires his truck to be "solo" so he can concentrate on the leading the formation safely across the country. He plans to use walky talkies for car to car communication, which the boys love. Using this method on our last cross country trek, he continuosly reported "static" when I was complaining about things...we'll see what he makes up this time....

Making sure I have spent time with all my girlfriends before I leave.

Making sure my husband knows I still do live in this house....I have really been in my own world lately. I think he actually approached me the other night with a "frisky" request, and I unknowingly started to discuss many of my to-do lists (none of which however included "my husband")

Painting the laundry room and doing touch-up on all the walls.

Catch up on my reality TV-thanks to Digital Recording. Now if only David Cook could come sing me to sleep!! YEAH for David Cook!!

Finish up with the photo shoots I have scheduled and say my goodbye's! Here is a sneak peek at some of my favorites over the past two shoots:

It was so much fun photographing both of these families. Completely different ends of the parenting spectrum. Thank you so much for letting me capture your families.

Bill and Renee-I am still editing your photos, but here are some to tease you.

Baby J Sneak Peek!

2008-05-19T07:38:00.002-04:00

I had my first "real" baby shoot on Friday with this precious little girl. MMMmmm-she was munchable! Just a hoot to get smile. I need to practice getting a baby to smile and taking the shot at the same time. It was kinda tricky! Here are a couple of my favorite shots:

Skid Marks I Can Tolerate!

2008-05-17T20:27:00.005-04:00

Caden was so excited to get on his new bike this week. One new skill that he perfected while I was carrying in groceries was the making the best and longest skid mark he could. He was so excited when he did his first one that he got off his bike to come in and get me. "Mom, you have got to see this, close your eyes", then he walks me very carefully to the exact place. Wow! They were great. I stayed to watch him do a few more before I grabbed my camera. I loved watching his face when he started the skid mark and his back wheel began to slide around, there was an instant of fear-- and thrill on his face. Now these are skid marks I can tolerate!

Donna, Thank you so much for the bike "hand-me-down". It is PERFECT!!

Sneak Peek!

2008-05-16T06:58:00.005-04:00

Wedenesday night I had the opportunity to photograph this lovely family. An aspiring photographer herself she knew what to do in front of the camera. We started the session in their little girls bedroom. Very fun, she was completely ready for the camera. Here are a few sneak peek pictures:

The Cooper-Eye Cam

2008-05-15T06:58:00.001-04:00

Since arriving home from my photography workshop, the excitement of a "cool" camera wore off on Cooper. I let him use my point-and-shoot for a few minutes and days later he is still taking pictures and videos like crazy! Here is the world through his eye. Please remember these are straight out of the camera with no editing.

Life outside his room

His foot

His brother

His "Sprinkles"-the love of his life for 6 years!

His friend David

I do have to say he is doing great on the focus issue and even used a little "camera-tilt"!

Caden is 4 today!

2008-05-13T06:12:00.004-04:00

Happy Birthday to my Little Guy

It seems like yesterday when we brought Caden home from the hospital and last night I said goodnight to Year 3!! He is so excited that he couldn't get to sleep. I asked him a couple of questions yesterday about turning 4:

Q: You are about to turn 4. What's so great about 4? Why do you want to turn 4?
A: I'll get "gooder" at fishing.

Q: What do you want for your birthday?
A: Bionicle, the little Bionicle at Target

Q: What kind of cake do you want for your birthday?
A: Army Birthday Cake

Q: What is your favorite color?
A: Blue

Q: What is your favorite movie?
A: Dora

Q: What do you want to be when you grow up?
A: Army Dude

Q: What is your favorite thing to do?
A: Play Call to Duty 4

Happy Mother's Day!

2008-05-11T07:52:00.003-04:00

Happy Mother's Day!

To all moms out there especially our own!

We Love You!

My mom with Cooper

Scott's Mom

And I can't forget my sister who became a mom for the first time 2 years ago. She is the mom of my only nephew, MAX! I wish we were closer to each other for many reasons, but to share motherhood on a daily basis is one of the biggest. For now, the phone will have to do.
Love you Vic!

Before I was a Mom I never tripped over army dudes or forgot virtually everything.

I never thought about immunizations.

Before I was a Mom - I had never been puked on. Pooped on. Chewed on. Peed on.

I had complete control of my mind and my thoughts. I slept all night.

Before I was a Mom I never held down a screaming child so doctors could do tests. Or give shots.

I never looked into teary eyes and cried myself. I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin or child laughter.

Before I was a Mom I never held a sleeping 3-year-old just because I didn't want to put him down.

I never felt my heart break into a million pieces when I couldn't stop the hurt.

I never knew 2 awesome boys could affect my life so much.

I never knew that I could love them so much. I never knew I would love being a Mom.

Before I was a Mom - I didn't know the feeling of having my heart outside my body.

I didn't know that bond between a mother and her children could be so fullfilling.

I didn't know that something so small could make me feel so important and happy, like when Cooper told me yesterday that he wrote the card all by himself. I am so proud of him.

I love being a MOM!

2008-05-08T10:04:00.006-04:00

There are so many things about being a mom that I love, and yes, there are some things that drive me crazy. As Mother's Day approaches I tend to think about the sweetness, the journey, the why's and how's we got here, the learning adventures (good and bad). I can't believe Caden will be 4 next week and Cooper will be 7 on his next birthday. We now can go to restaurants and actually eat our dinners there. We can now think about planning family vacations that they will remember.

We celebrated Mother's Day at Caden's classroom the other day. I was greeted at the door by him and escorted to my table spot where we decorated and ate cookies together and listed to Mrs. Endy read wonderful stories about "love". It was a very special day and Caden was so proud of himself. They had to complete the following sentences about "My Mom is Special-Here's Why" (Caden's response in blue)

My mom looks very pretty when: we go to the pool.

My mom's favorite thing to do is: to go to the pool.(I sure am glad we have a pool at our house in CA so I don't have to drive to a pool)

My mom's favorite food is: Macaroni and cheese

It is so fun to watch Cooper grow and learn so many things at school. Oh my gosh, he read a whole book to me last night-amazing! He is so sweet inside. I am so thankful that he still likes to snuggle with me. I love this picture of him because this is totally his "sweet smile".

It is so fun to watch Caden try to be as old as Cooper. He talks like there is no tomorrow and Scott and I laugh really hard at least once a day at something he says. He is munchable-especially dressed as Optimus Prime with a Bionicle Hand.

Thanks boys for loving me. Each day I try to be a better mommy because of you. I love you both to pieces!

Portfolio Building Underway

2008-05-06T19:58:00.008-04:00

The thought of starting a photography business is slowly taking shape. The first part of my plan is to start building a portfolio. So I emailed everyone in my BUNCO group and asked if anyone would be interested in me taking their families photographs for FREE. I provide them with a disk full of 60-80 best images from the shoot. Most of them will have some post-processing done on them as well. They can then print whichever images they like. I was so lucky to have 2 great shoots this week with wonderful families. I have chosen a few favorite images from each shoot. It sure helps when your subjects are super cute and so sweet!

I didn't find out till the end that this awesome family did not have dinner before the shoot and we ended at 8:15pm. You guys are troopers!!

This was one of our last shots of the night, laying on the ground under monkey bars, so I could climb up to get the family head shot. I snapped this one while mom, dad and older sister were getting into position. I can't believe they were still smiling. Love those little guys!

Now my husband would really like it if I would get back to housework and getting us ready to move in 21 days. There is not enough time in the day right now. But I do have a break until I shoot another family this weekend. Next week-two more families and one baby. Then that will be it for photography in DC.

Magic in Sonoma

2008-05-01T12:47:00.017-04:00

The Group-Photo By Garrett Burdick

I have now been home for one full day from my Photography Workshop in Sonoma, California with Me Ra Koh and her husband Brian. I will try to explain the weekend as best as I can, but honestly, a lot of the weekend can’t be put into words.

Something Magical Happened in Sonoma. I went to Sonoma knowing partly how to use my camera, knowing that I had a pretty good eye and wanting to gain the knowledge so that I can start a photography business. I came home from Sonoma with at least 9 new life-long friends and a new level of confidence that will support my journey into the photography business. It was an amazing weekend full of sharing our dreams, fears, many tears, and laughter. We spent Saturday and Sunday immersed in the mechanics of the camera, post-processing tips and learning tips for starting a business. We had a baby/mommy shoot on Saturday and a family shoot on Sunday. I don’t think we could have photographed more beautiful people on those two shoots.

Heather and Baby Ellery, just stunning!!!

Matthew, Laura and the boys—so full of life and just plain CUTE!

The workshop was held at the Westerbeke Ranch in Sonoma. This place was so fantastic. They rang the lunch bell for us each day and their food was by far the best food we ate in Sonoma. We had our instruction in the Chapel, such a quiet and tranquil place. Perfect for the transformations that occurred in many of the women this weekend. I guess I would call this a photography workshop/women’s retreat, even though we loved having Brian and Garrett with us as well.

This leads me to Garrett Burdick.

He was the photographer who found this great destination for us to learn in. On Saturday he and his wife Tanya greeted us at Westerbeke Ranch. Tanya stayed with us on Saturday--we missed you so much the rest of the weekend. Garrett is a wonderful photographer who took 9 women under his “wing”. He taught us, shared with us, and treated us like true friends. I know that if I ever needed anything within the photography business, Garrett would help at the “drop of a hat”.

Then came Monday, the Add-on day, in which we thought the weekend couldn’t get much better ---then we met celebrity photographer, Rick Chapman and his family at his home in Stinson Beach.
I love this pic-it's almost like we were not worthy of this man's knowledge.

The weekend kind of came full circle when we met Rick. I don’t think there will ever be a group of professional photographers that you could put together at a workshop that would have the personalities so perfect for this group of outstanding women there wanting to learn everything we could. They embraced talking with us, laughing with us, crying with us and teaching us. Rick and Lesley are PRECIOUS! Their boys-so sweet! One thing will be engraved in my life forever after Rick spoke to us—Build a Relationship with whomever you are shooting (photographing). Most important! It will set the tone for the entire interaction. Rick walked us through how he would do a shoot with a client-family or individual. Can you believe he let us walk around his entire house just looking around for great places to take pictures? We then went into the forest by his house where he has taken some of the pictures you find on his website, but again we practiced finding good shade and had our own little family shoot with Rick, Lesley and Sharon’s little girl, Maggie.

We finished up at his house by watching Rick have a photo shoot with MeRa and Brian. It was amazing to watch him work and the photos of them were of course incredible.

Then it was time to say goodbye. This is a hard time to describe. I don’t think I can put it into words. It was kind of like leaving your parents who taught you so much and now it was time to go into the world alone to “make it.” I miss everyone so dearly. I have already talked to Sharon and Carrie, and it was so good to hear their voices. I know I will have years to come of keeping in touch with each one of these wonderful ladies.

To Me Ra and Brian-You are wonderful, beyond words! You touch people in ways that are indescribable. I want to thank you for being so open, warm and inviting. This made for a great learning environment.

To my Husband-Thank you for supporting me on this journey. I love you.
To my family-Thank you again for making this trip possible. I love you.
To my 8 new friends-“Monday was not the end of our weekend; it was the beginning of our photography journeys!”

Can't Believe I am Finally Here

2008-04-26T09:43:00.004-04:00

It is finally the end of April and I am in Sonoma, California for the Me Ra Koh Photography Workshop. My friend Carrie and I pulled into Sonoma yesterday at 3pm in our very "burly" Dodge Charger. We tried really hard not to take naps, since we are the only two chicks on east coast time. At 6pm we went to The Red Grape to Meet and Greet everyone. It was so much fun finally meeting Me Ra and her husband Brian. They are as fun and personable as I envisioned. It was a very laid back evening and the food was great! I will update tonight with hopefully some great photos that I learn to take today.