A Picture A Day 2012...

February 14, 2012 ~ 45

2012-02-14T13:01:00.000-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day! The kids put on their dad's valentine's day presents this morning and surprised him in the kitchen while he was making coffee! I purchased the t-shirts from 80stees - LOVE that store - if you are a child of the 80's or just a fan of the 80's - it's a nostalgic ride - but as you can see they also have sports and non 80's tee's as well! We also finished our dirt cups from last night for breakfast this morning - I can think of no other way to start valentine's day morning than with chocolate! So for today's photo(s) I give you: Who's wearing my t-shirts?

February 13, 2012 ~ 44

2012-02-13T18:32:00.000-05:00

We made dirt cups for our after dinner treat - complete with sour worms too! Abby helps mix and crush the dirt, Maggie didn't see what we were doing at first, and she did not believe that it was actual dirt, so she tried some. She quickly figured out our secret ingredient! Too much to finish in one sitting, we wrapped them up and decided to save them for tomorrow. So for tonight's photo(s) I give you: The Dirt Cups!

February 12, 2012 ~ 43

2012-02-12T20:54:00.000-05:00

I was invited to photograph a baptism today. And that's the only time I took my camera out for the day. So for today's photo(s) I give you: The Baptism

February 11, 2012 ~ 42

2012-02-11T14:14:00.001-05:00

Well now the kids and I tried a Martha Stewart project. They are crayon hearts. We worked on them for a few days and Abby was kind enough to help me in the finishing touches of hanging them this morning. As you can see out the window it is snowing - which completely defeats the purpose of the hearts as they are suppose to be hung so sunlight filters through them, however, I do not control the weather. Now first off I would like to ask Martha who did all the crayon sharpening for her to get the crayon shavings - I have a nice blister on my index finger! All in all it was a fun project and I am sure the hearts will look cute with the sun shining through them ( and believe me they look NOTHING at all like Martha's version!) So for today's photo(s) I give you: Crayon hearts

February 10, 2012 ~ 41

2012-02-10T20:52:00.000-05:00

Well today's attempt at a few self portraits went horribly wrong, I am sure it is because I loathe self portraits - so it was doomed from the first click. I will have to try again another day since I said I would try and step out of my comfort zone this year, self portraits are definitely out of my comfort zone. So at 8pm at night and no pictures worth even loading to my computer, I found the only willing participant in the house - my cute cross eyed cat, KC. I am sure this will not be her only appearance this year either. So for today's photo(s) I give you: The many faces of KC

February 9, 2012 ~ 40

2012-02-09T20:49:00.000-05:00

Took the kids out to see the sunset tonight. I have said this before and I will say it again now and I am sure it will come up a few more times - I am just not a big sunset fan, however, I gave each kid a camera today and told them to take pictures, it made the non-spectacular sunset ( well, I say non-spectacular because there were no clouds and no fabulous colors, never the less, it was still a nice sunset) a lot more interesting! Cute as buttons my two kids are, still need to go through the photos off of their cameras:) So for today's photo(s) I give you: Two cute kids and their cameras

February 8, 2012 ~ 39

2012-02-08T18:41:00.000-05:00

The days are too short and are just going by too quickly. 2012 has certainly started pressing a little firmer on the gas pedal and I am not too happy about it. At any rate, for a little 2 year old that fights her naps everyday, she is still managing a little snooze. So for today's photo(s) I give you: Sleeping Beauty...

February 7, 2012 ~ 38

2012-02-07T19:02:00.001-05:00

Rather proud that my photo(s) were all done before 9am this morning. Actually had a very relaxed morning following the sun throughout the house. It brightened up my flowers on the table, made the cat silly, shown through a glass of water, made my coffee mug look like art, and well, who knows what on earth it did to our crazy dog! So for today's photo(s) I give you: Morning Sun

February 6, 2012 ~ 37

2012-02-06T19:06:00.002-05:00

Today's photo(s): the moon rising ...

February 5, 2012 ~ 36

2012-02-05T19:01:00.000-05:00

Well who needs the Superbowl - we have hungry hungry hippos! Although I think the 2 year old cheats when no one is looking! so for today's photo(s) I give you: Who's the hungriest hippo?

February 4, 2012 ~ 35

2012-02-04T20:27:00.000-05:00

Long day of sorting through our "collected things" from the past 8 years. Bags and boxes filled with past treasures made their way to the Good Will. Todays photos have absolutely nothing to do with what we did today, as I did not take pictures of the purging process and I suppose I should have. So for today's photo(s) I give you: Fruit Salad - it was our dinner

February 3, 2012 ~ 34

2012-02-03T18:17:00.001-05:00

I saw this photo idea off of a friends board in Pintrest, I thought it was a great concept for a photo, so I tried it. Now I do plan on trying it again in the spring, outside in the warm sunshine and green grass, but still a fun shoot with my beautiful little girl on a dreary February day. So for today's photo(s) I give you: Maggie and my wedding dress...

February 2, 2012 ~ 33

2012-02-02T20:32:00.000-05:00

Groundhog Day! One of my most favorite days of the year, not sure why, just love it - the groundhog saw his shadow, but that's ok, spring will be here in 6 very short weeks. Today the kids and I discovered a new treat to make - Giant cake bite pops! Wow, Maggie received a gift of them today from her Grampy and Julie. They were fantastic, she is such a good kid, she shared them with all of us. I am thinking we will tackle them for Valentine's Day this year. So for today's photo(s) I give you: The Giant Cake Bite Pop

February 1, 2012 ~ 32

2012-02-01T13:03:00.000-05:00

Happy February - and it feels like spring, the groundhog is going to be so confused tomorrow, shadow or no shadow, 60 degrees in February is a beautiful thing! Had a great time outside today waiting on Maggie's bus. We were JUMPING! Even the dog got into it! I must say though, it does feel weird to be outside with no jacket on and to have NO snow on the ground in February and although I do not enjoy the heat, I am certainly not complaining about our mild winter so far... and with that being said, I am very prepared for 4 feet at some point! So for today's photo(s) I give you: Ready... Set... JUMP!

January 31, 2012 ~ 31

2012-01-31T19:10:00.000-05:00

Kiddos were having such a good time playing in mags room today. They are so fun to watch when they are getting along. So for today's photo(s) I give you: 5 and 2

January 30, 2012 ~ 30

2012-01-30T17:30:00.000-05:00

I am more of a fan of sunrise than of sunset - I would love to live in a place where i could see the sunrise every morning by looking out my back windows or even just taking a short walk to the shore. Alas that is a dream but my reality is I can catch a sliver of the sunset every night through our bedroom window. So for today's photo(s) I give you: Sunset through my bedroom window...

January 29, 2012 ~ 29

2012-01-29T20:36:00.000-05:00

So I can never left flowers go to waste when they are in the house. They are so beautiful especially in the winter - and since we have no snow yet and everything is brown, it's very nice to see fresh flowers every once in awhile! I took advantage of one of the roses that came in my bouquet... Today's photo(s): My Beautiful Maggie "Rose"

January 28, 2012 ~28

2012-01-28T21:16:00.000-05:00

I love when our friends come for a visit. Had a fantastic day with Pam and Peter. Pam, Mags and I escaped to Old Mystic Village for a little while. We visited the Vegetable Ivory Store , one of Maggie's favorite stores because she gets to make a piece of jewelry! Made our way over to Franklin's General Store where we bought some "mystic " Swedish fish, window shopped and then wandered off to watch the sunset. So for today's photo(s) I give you: Mystic at Sunset

January 27, 2012 ~ 27

2012-01-27T23:29:00.000-05:00

Had a surprise visit from one of Maggie's favorite people today! Miss Anne Marie and little Harvey came over! The girls were so happy to see them both. Maggie had a blast trying to make Harvey laugh and Abby got a very cool chocolate playset! So for today's photo(s) I give you: Tiny hands, big smiles!

January 26, 2012 ~ 26

2012-01-26T21:26:00.000-05:00

Not really sure what to say about today's pictures. A song from one of the kids silly songs keeps coming to mind... one bottle pop, two bottle pop, three bottle, four bottle pop - and so on... was busy today with kids and house work and didn't take my camera out until after 8pm... and this is what I got. So for today's photo(s), I give you: Pop a Top

January 25, 2012 ~ 25

2012-01-25T20:54:00.000-05:00

My hubby bought me flowers today... nuff said! (and that's my photo(s) of the day)

January 24, 2012 ~ 24

2012-01-24T18:34:00.000-05:00

Hamburgers with avocado and feta cheese and coconut cream pudding! If I wasn't in such a rotten mood I would write a little more about how it all turned out - and it was quite good! So for today's photo(s) I give you: YUM! This is what's for dinner

January 23, 2012 ~ 23

2012-01-23T21:06:00.000-05:00

Homework time. I don't remember doing homework in kindergarten, however, I do remember setting a trap for a leprechaun ( and that will be a story for another time). I also remember my kindergarten teachers name was Mrs. Rose. So here sits my sweet little Maggie doing her homework - she brings home new books every week in a "book bag" she reads them and she brings them back to school. Tonight's books were: Max's box, Who's going to lick the bowl and My frisbee. So for today's photo(s) I give you: Study Maggie, Study!

January 22, 2012 ~ 12

2012-01-22T17:18:00.000-05:00

Busy day today - a day that I thought would be pretty relaxing. Still had time to play with the kids in the snow for the first time this winter. I did not last long outside, my fingers froze up pretty quick with no gloves on, no gloves on because I could not find them! So for today's photo(s) I give you: My Snow Angels

January 21, 2012 ~ 21

2012-01-21T18:15:00.000-05:00

Today was a perfect day for some photo shoots. Got to visit with some friends that I have not seen in over 15 years. Took a few photos with some help from the fabulous Faye! Family photos, maternity photos, kids photos, engagements photos, a little of everything today and I loved every minute of it! Thank you again Faye, for the use of your studio! For today's photo(s) I give you: A beautiful circle of friends!

January 20, 2012 ~ 20

2012-01-20T23:05:00.000-05:00

Well this is a late entry for me. Spent time at my friend Faye's studio setting up for tomorrow. Had a blast and am really looking forward to seeing everyone tomorrow! Thanks to my awesome hubby for his patience and to Faye for all her help tonight and tomorrow! Tonight's photo(s) are: The Set Up

January 19, 2012 ~ 19

2012-01-19T20:52:00.000-05:00

Abigail, Abby, Abs, the angry red head - whatever it is you like to call her, this kid has quite a few faces in her arsenal. As we waited for Mags bus today, I took my camera out and she said "Take my picture!", I said "OK, sit here are give me some faces" So we have, I'm happy, Shh, I'm sleeping, I'm sticking out my tongue, I'm making a silly face, I'm laughing, Wow this cheese dip is spicy, stop taking my picture and my personal favorite the "Hold me up PLEASE!" face! Today's photo(s): The many faces of Abigail!

January 18, 2012 ~ 18

2012-01-18T21:25:00.000-05:00

With no idea of what I wanted to do for my photo today and craving something sweet, I put together a little montage of yumminess! Chocolate, quite possibly the best thing on earth, ever! And what could you possible do to make the best thing on earth even better, you guessed it, add peanut butter and a glass of ice cold milk. Honey is another go too when I am craving something sweet. There is also a soft spot in my heart for Crab and anything covered in Buffalo Wing hot sauce! There is nothing more thirst quenching than a nice cold glass of pure cranberry juice and water. So for today's photo(s) I give you: These are a few of my favorite thing... To Eat!

January 17, 2012 ~ 17

2012-01-17T20:43:00.000-05:00

After shoveling my dad's walk ways and driveway this morning I went on the hunt for some snowflakes. I found one beautiful little snowflake hanging on as it was melting away. I found some other snowy spots that caught my eye too. So for today's photo(s) i give you: hang on little snowflake, hang on

January 16, 2012 ~ 16

2012-01-16T16:56:00.000-05:00

What a fantastically wonderful day! It started with breakfast at Stella's of Middle Street ! Yummy! French Toast is melt in your mouth delicious, chocolate chip pancakes that the kids couldn't get enough of, poached eggs on pumpernickel, homefries, bacon, green tea, coffee, cranberry juice - all of it so good! So for today's photo(s) I give you: Stella's - it's what's for breakfast!

January 15, 2012 ~ 15

2012-01-15T16:25:00.001-05:00

The Zombie Apocalypse is here, or so my hubby thinks!
Scott couldn't go shoot the sunrise with me this morning so I ventured out by myself. Originally i was just going to stop at Salisbury beach - but there was this HUGE black cloud covering the horizon. I had enough time so I decided to head further north. Once I reached Hampton beach I knew it was going to be a strange and eerie sunrise.
I parked by the seawall and got out to check the surf. After standing at the wall for 2 minutes, I realized that 3 degrees is not fun to be out in. I went back in the car to warm up and decided that it was cold enough to activate my hot hands packs - and let me tell you, it was so cold the hot hands were not that effective. I stayed out for 2-5 minutes at a time then would head back to the car to warm up. The beach was completely frozen - and so was I. About 10 minutes after sunrise, the sun made its way above the massive black cloud that was still stretching across the horizon as far as the eye could see. The cloud, the fog the sun made for a spectacular start to my day.
When I got home I showed Scott the photos.
He came up with the name for today's photos - so I give you: Dawn of the Zombie Apocalypse

January 14, 2012 ~ 14

2012-01-14T21:32:00.000-05:00

Build-a-bear birthday party today for a friend of Maggie. Maggie and I have been to build-a-bear many times, but we had never attended a birthday party there. It was fun, the kids had a good time, the best part was watching the kids prepare the hearts to put in their bear. Also love that build-a-bear has brought back all the smurfs! Is it wrong that I want one for myself -both the kids already have one, I think its only fair!
So for today's photo(s) I give you: A beary birthday party!

January 13, 2012 ~ 13

2012-01-13T21:28:00.000-05:00

For today's photo(s), I give you: 16 years in the Navy... retirement is not yet in sight...

January 12, 2012 ~ 12

2012-01-12T22:01:00.000-05:00

Hats, hats and more hats - how many hats does one person need? Actually I don't think it falls in the need or want category, it seems to be an extension of ones self. An article of clothing as significant as shoes! My hubby has a few hats, over 50. I have 4 ( which I happen to wear quite often, one at a time of course) Each seems to have its own personality - or perhaps its not a personality but rather you wear a specific hat when you are in a certain mood? Whatever the case may be - being the purveyor of hats seems to be a very lucrative choice of business - Today's photo(s) I give you - The many hats of Scott!

January 11, 2012 ~ 11

2012-01-11T19:12:00.001-05:00

Have you lost your marbles? Yikes! Fun with marbles tonight. I have collected marbles for as far back as I can remember. More than half of the marbles that I have are from my dad's collection (mostly the cats eyes) One summer my aunt took me to Mark Twain's house here in CT and I bought a bag of black speckled marbles there. Funny the things you remember. Tonight's photos were a little difficult, I waited too long to take them and lost the natural light outside and had to use a light - which makes a "shine" reflection. But all in all it was fun - even captured some as they fell into the bucket! So tonight's photo(s) I give you: For all the marbles - and one ball bearing!

January 10, 2012 ~ 10

2012-01-10T15:18:00.001-05:00

Day 10 - I would have to say that this year is NOT flying by (and a mighty "thank goodness"to that). I have been having fun making the different collages everyday instead of picking just one picture, its a nice change from 2010, I am not sure if I will have a collage for everyday, but so far it is working out quite nicely.
Highlighting our totally cool dog Astro today. He loves playing catch. Today's toy of choice was the tennis ball, though I think his favorite toy in the frisbee (we will save the frisbee for another day) Astro is a mini Australian Shepherd and like any Aussie he loves to play. He is such a great dog, very much loved in our family. These photos were a little tricky for me to capture as I was both the ball thrower and the photographer! I actually prefer being the photographer to the ball thrower, it is not as soggy! So for today's photo(s) I give you Astro - the coolest dog I know!

January 9, 2012 ~ 9

2012-01-09T19:05:00.000-05:00

After Mags got on the bus for school today, Abs and I went on an adventure throughout the yard looking at the sunshine and shadows. Abs pointed out where the sun rays were and I took the picture. Then she saw her shadow and I took a picture of that. Around the yard we went checking out all the shadows and sun rays we could find. So today I give you: Sunshine and Shadows as seen by my 2 year old!

January 8, 2012 ~ 8

2012-01-08T21:57:00.000-05:00

Abby got the sweetest handmade outfit from our friend Sarah at her birthday party yesterday and we thought it would be fun to test it out in a photo shoot! So I give you the many faces of my little kiddos. Mags, of course, was all about it and ready to pose, Abs on the other hand needed a little bribing. A little sprite and piece of chocolate go a long way. she still doesn't get the whole "stay still just for that split second for my camera to focus and for me to click!!" So most of Ab's photos are very happy accidents! And the next time Sarah is in a tutu/headband making mood - I hope she will make a few more sets for my girls!! Love you Sarah! Thanks for the inspiration for my photo a day today!

January 7, 2012 ~ 7

2012-01-07T21:07:00.000-05:00

What a fantastic day! Great birthday party for my little red head! Love our little circle of family and friends. I was hoping Abs would have taken a quick nap before the festivities began - but she fought to stay awake - she did great lasted for quite awhile but finally fell asleep in her Grampy's arms! Too cute! Kids had a great time and so did we. There are times in our lives when we realize how blessed we are, today was one of those times...

January 6, 2012 ~ 6

2012-01-06T21:31:00.000-05:00

Happy Happy Happy Birthday to my little red head! At 6:41pm tonight she officially turned 2! How fast time flies by. We spent the entire day today baking lots of goodies to enjoy at her birthday party tomorrow. Over sized cupcakes, spicy corn bread bites, lots and lots of veggies to go with the taco bar. I feel I am slipping into a food coma just thinking about it all. The house smells fabulous! Drive safe to all you out of towners coming to help us celebrate tomorrow!

January 5, 2012 ~ 5

2012-01-05T16:00:00.000-05:00

I spent the better part of the day today working on Abby's happy birthday banner for her party on Saturday. I started out with some help from both kids - but they got bored quickly and moved on to Playdoh (imagine that). I continued to plug away cutting out the pieces and covering myself in glue. Mags left for kindergarten - and it wasnt long after that when little Abs gave up and closed her eyes ( while laying in my lap of course - lets not think this is easy...) I squeezed out from under my sleeping red head - took care of a few phone calls and went back to continue the banner. When I finished I went back downstairs to sit with Abby until she woke up - well - what I sight I found! It couldnt have been any cuter to see the dog cuddling with Abby - I guess they were both tired and needed a nap!

January 4, 2012 ~ 4

2012-01-04T17:23:00.000-05:00

At a loss for inspiration today, I called out to my friends for some suggestions, alas only one friend responded - my sweet friend Pam, who gave me a great idea, that got my wheels turning on an idea but not for today, I need to save it for another day (so thank you Pam;).

As I watched my kiddos playing in the living room - the light seemed just about right coming through the front window to capture a few moments... of their eyes! Now the 5 year old was no problem, she looked where I directed her, stayed still for the split second I needed to focus the camera and click - my soon to be 2 year old was a whole other story, when she poses for a photo she makes this fantastic scrunch face - while it is absolutely adorable it does not make for a good eye photo, however, I think I managed. And to top it off my hubby walked through the door as I was finishing up, so I caught his eye too, so to speak. And here you have today's photo - the eyes that I see!

January 3, 2012 ~ 3

2012-01-03T14:56:00.000-05:00

Waiting for the bus. It is crazy for me at times to think that I, 1) have a child, and not just one but two, and 2) that I am standing outside waiting for the bus to come and bring her to school! This daily ritual, though it is quite cold out now, is actually a fun part of our day! We go outside, all of us, and play fetch with the dog - we play balance beam on the path way and hang from the banister, when its raining and not too cold we jump in puddles or huddle under the awning on the porch. Today was cold and sunny! We bundled up went outside and waited. We can hear the bus before it gets to our house and little Mags runs off with a quick "I Love You Mom!" and away she goes!

January 2, 2012 ~ 2

2012-01-02T15:12:00.000-05:00

Oh a sleeping baby! Such a sweet sight and even better to hear. This little red head no longer likes to take naps, no naps at all especially in her crib. But every day she seems to cuddle up in someone's lap (her daddy would be her person of choice if he is around) and sure enough she closes her eyes and falls asleep. We have adjusted to her new sleep habit - a little nap is much better than no nap...

January 1, 2012 ~ 1

2012-01-01T14:09:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year!
Project 365 has begun for me again - I am quite excited to start this adventure again. Having completed the challenge in 2010, I will have to find ways to make this year different: theme weeks, multiple photos and most importantly try and creep out of my comfort zone!

Today marks day 1. The kids had us up early and immeditately started playing with Playdoh! I have such a love hate relationship with Playdoh. The kids love it, it will entertain them for hours at a time, this I love, what I hate - opening the stupid can, why are you so hard to open Playdoh, why? And why do you have to fall on the floor and stick to everything?

Today there is Playdoh on the table, on the floor, on our fingers and even on our toes!

Happy Christmas!!!

2011-12-25T21:00:00.000-05:00

Merry Merry Christmas! Had a fantastic day with my sweet little family! Lots of gadgets in the house - seems like everything needs to be up or downloaded somehow... things sure have changed since I was a little kid!

6 days til New Years! Bring on the 365 Project (again)!!!! Woo Hoo!

My little kiddos having a great time opening gifts!

I think my hubby was happy with his silly gifts - Santa did good!

I even got a very cool new strap for my camera from my awesome hubby! (hints do work!!)
Camera Strap by: August Blossoms

Happy Holidays 2011

2011-12-20T19:46:00.000-05:00

Happy Holidays to everyone who stops by! 11 days til I start my 365 project again - I am getting excited!

The Wheels are in motion...

2011-12-16T09:29:00.000-05:00

Tick tock tick tock -

16 days until I start my Photo a day challenge AGAIN!! Having successfully completed the challenge in 2010, I cannot wait to start again on January 1st, 2012. A slight change - I have decided to not limit myself to just one photo -

2012 is going to be a year of transitions for my family! I am looking forward to finding new places to explore - camera in hand!

Is anyone else taking on the Photo a day Challenge? If so, let me know - I would love to follow your journey as well.

Who else is making New Years Resolutions? How are you going to track your success?

I hope you all have a most peaceful holiday!

See you in 2012!!

Ten years of wonderful memories

2011-11-04T15:08:00.000-04:00

10 years together - 2 beautiful little girls... so much more life ahead of us...

10 years... already

2011-10-17T19:36:00.001-04:00

We met in Jan 2000
We were engaged in dec 2000
We eloped in Oct 2001
We celebrated our elopement in June 2002
This coming weekend will be 10 years to the day of our elopement - The 2 of us together walked into city hall in Norfolk, VA - signed the paperwork and off we went to start our life together... this weekend we plan to celebrate the last 10 years with friends and family - the family and friends that were not with us the first time...

Kindergarten... already - I must have blinked?!?!?

2011-09-06T20:54:00.000-04:00

Where has the past 5 years gone?? Seriously? I think I must have blinked - because I definelely missed something...

the day you were born...

your first day of kindergarten...

its been a long 10 days...

2011-08-14T06:18:00.000-04:00

When your mind is somewhere else, not focused on the "norm", worried, stressed, scared... when you cant see the forest through the trees - when you have to get through one day to see the next, when things do not come easy and the simplest tasks seem daunting - when the worry and exhaustion start to take over... its hard to focus, its hard to let go, its hard to accept that things will work out the way they are ment too...
Remember one thing... "When night lay sad upon you ~ go watch a simple sunrise"

And that is what I did...

quote is from Emmit Otters Jug band Christmas,sometimes its the simple things you need in your life to stay grounded when everything else seems to be flying away...

Fun Summer so far...

2011-07-28T21:18:00.000-04:00

What a fantastic Summer so far - my little munchkin turned 5 - we had quite a celebration for her, ((hugs)) to all out friends and family that made her day so special! Hard to believe summer is half over, 2011 is going by way to quickly... don't blink!!

a wedding...

2011-06-23T04:35:00.000-04:00

I had the honor of photographing the wedding of one of my best friends this past weekend. We have known each other for over 23 years. She looked beautiful, the day was perfect (though a little on the warm side, I would take the heat over rain drops) I wish them love and happiness now and forever!

as luck would have it...

2011-06-15T13:22:00.000-04:00

I have a certain fascination with 4-leafed clovers - for reasons that started when I was a young child - I have always been drawn to them - I can look down at a clover patch and they just pop out at me... on Monday I found 10 - I insisted my husband go buy us a lottery ticket - the drawing is tonight...

Best Day Ever!! ( or at least in a long time...)

2011-06-05T06:57:00.001-04:00

Have you ever had "just one of those days..." just the best day - the weather, activities, food and the company you share?
Yesterday was one of those days. It started with taking Maggie to see:

Luna's Sea at Old Mystick Village. .

My daughter absolutely loved the production, front row seats, up close to all the dancing, it was fantastic - if you have little ones and are in the area, be sure to make the time to see the show, it is every Saturday at 10am until the end of October. We will be going again... and again...

After the show we went on a Luna's Sea treasure hunt throughout the village, maggie found all the clues and received a great prize at the end - my prize was seeing her sweet face light up as she made the discoveries that lead her to "the treasure"!

We took a break from the hunt to sit and listen to Miss Connecticut read Beauty and the Beast at the Gazabo.

After storytime there was a raffle - and Maggie won 2 tickets to see the Musical of Beauty and the Beast this Friday!! Lucky kid!!

Had a great lunch at Mango's Wood Fired Pizza, cupcakes from Bleu Squid Bakery then home!

Best day EVER!!! Well, maybe not ever - but best day in a long time!

A Graduation ...

2011-06-04T07:11:00.000-04:00

My little Munchkin graduated Sea School this week, Sea School is the first accredited pre-school program in the US at an Aquarium, Mystic Aquarium to be exact. She has learned so much about the ocean, beluga whales, penguins, eels, sharks, turtles, sea lions, recycling, saving the planet. She writes her name, and other words, she colors in the lines, she has played with flubber, made ice cream and helped plant a garden. She has been up close and personal with a penguin and sea turtle, learned what a mermaid's purse is and has even seen some praying mantis hatch. From her first day of Sea School on January 5th, 2010 til her last day on June 2nd, 2011, she has had quite an adventure, just ask her, she will tell you all about it! I counldn't be more proud! To my sweet Maggie - on to kindergarten my dear...

Sea School ~ Day 1 ~ January 5th, 2010

Sea School ~ Last Day ~ June 2nd, 2011

After the rain...

2011-05-25T11:04:00.000-04:00

After what seems to have been weeks of rain - I think I see the sun... and some flowers and some bugs... Sunshine - we are coming outside to spend the day with you!! Missed you!

Ocean

2011-04-28T21:34:00.003-04:00

My kiddos loved the ocean :)

Wow - a month has gone by...

2011-04-27T17:17:00.011-04:00

Well well well - a month has gone by - and we have been busy - we spent some time in TX visiting family, I would not recommend traveling with a 15 month old, especially if they have red hair...

I also got the opportunity to have a collection of my photos on display and available for purchase at Stella's on Middle Street in Newburyport, MA -

Other than photographing my children having a blast in the ocean while in TX - I got one opportunity to go out and shoot with my husband and a sleeping red head... here are some of the things we saw...

Spring is offically here - but has it Sprung?

2011-03-25T19:07:00.002-04:00

What a strange week - 70 degrees - and a snow storm that brought us 2 more inches of snow - Fun times here in New England, but I must say that I wouldn't have it any other way!! So - have we found spring yet?? I would have to say even despite the snow - there are signs that it is trying to make an appearance...

And then even after the 2 inches of snow yesterday - look what I found in the back yard...

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2011-03-17T20:10:00.010-04:00

So close to Spring, today we could feel it as the temps were in the 50's! Lot's more green to be seen and the kids were even playing outside without their heavy coats on!
Happy St. Patrick's Day:)

The search continues ...

2011-03-10T19:48:00.010-05:00

Still looking for definitive signs of Spring - some things are looking a little greener, the kiddos were playing outside in their jean jackets, there were rain drops instead of snow, the dog was cooling off on one of the last remaining snow banks, the strawberry plants have perked up and soon the forsythia bush will be turning yellow... and my search continues...

The sky is on fire and the animals are going crazy...

2011-03-04T19:54:00.007-05:00

Spring where are you? It has been so cold I am afraid you are going to forget all about us!! The sunsets have been amazing - I much prefer the sunrise, however, the sky has been on fire every night, I wish I could find a place to go with a clear view of the sun as it goes to sleep...

There is one sight that I am so looking forward to - the sunshine kissing the flowers - unfortunately this sunflower is in a vase on my kitchen table, but I love the morning sun rays on it...

The animals have been going crazy - Once again I can hear the birds in the morning, I miss that during winter. Today, I thought I was in the movie The Birds - the black birds were in the trees and on every ones lawns scavenging through the leaves and their squawks were deafening, even the squirrels have gone a little nutty, scrambling around. Tomorrow is going to be in the 40's close to 50 degrees, we plan on spending the day outside, Spring Fever!!

In search of Spring....

2011-03-01T06:36:00.004-05:00

I have decided to take on a "photo adventure" for March 2011 - and go on a search for Spring... They say March is in like a lion and out like a lamb... we shall see what I find. The forecast for this week already has a mixture of sun, rain, snow, 50 degrees and 28 degrees... I am hoping to see the first crocus in my yard, very soon - and to capture at least one sunrise... I will report my findings every few days...

Now - I must say that after starting my day, I was very pleasently surprised to find a few "things" that told me, Spring will be here soon... the daffadils are starting to peak thru the ground - my favorite purple little crocus has started to make an apperance and the snow and ice have started to melt...

one thing that would make spring seem... just a little closer would be to get my kids out of their winter jackets - hopefully by the last days of March they will be...

4 years later...

2011-02-22T18:55:00.006-05:00

About 4 years ago I took this picture of my little mags - she was so cute, playing with the cowboy hats...

I took this picture of mags today - about 4 years difference. Still as cute as can be!! Love her!

Hmmmm

2011-02-21T11:35:00.009-05:00

Well I guess my life has been slightly uneventful lately, havent had many photo adventures... we had 2 days of beautiful spring weather - and well, we didnt really get to take advantage of them, even a walk around the block would have been tricky with all the snow still left - and speaking of snow - just yesterday, I could finally see the grass in our back yard and wouldnt cha know we wake up this morning to a few more inches of the white stuff covereing everything! O-well, spring will be here in a month!! Though things have been uneventful, I did go on a date with my hubby - went out with one of my best friends to see a band and spent an evening with a great bunch of gals at a tastefully simple party:) More fun to come... especially this Sunday...

Red Light, February, 11, 2011

My friend Allison preping for her Tastefully Simple party, she did a great job!

Sledding in New England - FABULOUS!

2011-02-07T20:27:00.008-05:00

While most people complain about the snow - and I will admit it is not my favorite "weather", I do so love living in New England and getting a dose of the white stuff every year - No I do not have to drive in it everyday, so its not as painful to me as it is to others - but there are some things that make it all worth it... we are not into skiing, snowboarding, doesn't really interest us - however - Scott and Maggie got their first sledding experience the other day and I think they are hooked!!!

A few great photo shoots...

2011-02-01T21:30:00.007-05:00

I have been keeping busy with photo shoots lately - Two very sweet little girls - and a Navy Retirement.
This is Miss Emily - it was so much fun to photograph her, she obviously loves the camera and I love capturing those moments when a kid is just being a kid. I didn't ask her to pose, she was just being herself in front of the black screen.

I have a green screen now and I am looking forward to another session with Miss Emily - have some fun and be able to do some more creative things with her photos, like putting her image into a fairy scene...

The Navy Retirement - well that was a wonderful experience for me. I think it is fantastic that the ceremony is not only about the Sailor's career but also about the family that stood by and supported them for 20+ years as they served our country.

Spring will be here soon...

2011-01-25T20:36:00.007-05:00

So as we were playing outside in at least 3 feet of snow today -
I couldn't help but think that spring is just around the corner - even better, the best non-holiday is 8 days away - and I am slightly hopeful that Mr. Groundhog will predict that - yup you guessed it - Spring will be here soon! With another snowstorm slated to drop another 10 inches of snow on us tomorrow - I can only dream about those warmer morning temperatures and the peace of watching the sunrise. Oh Mr. Sun - though you bring the heat - that at most times I completely loathe - I do so enjoy our mornings together. I will most definitely be seeing you soon...

snow watching

2011-01-21T19:48:00.006-05:00

the light seemed too perfect today not to capture a few photos of Maggie in the window watching the snow.
sometimes she is so peaceful - she melts my heart...

Time goes by so quickly...

2011-01-20T19:40:00.003-05:00

Time goes by so quickly. For me, being married to someone in the military, puts a strange twist on "time". When your family is complete - the days seem to pass by quicker than a hummingbird can flap its little wings - when "he" is gone and you are left behind with an incomplete family, you wish the days away, count down to the day you see "him" again and those days seem to move slower than a blue hair on a Sunday drive... by wishing those days away, we loose a little of what we have in the here and now, we may forget to cherish what is right under our nose - but what we never forget, not for one second, is that he is out there, serving his country, keeping us safe and free... I was looking at Maggie today - realizing that she is 4 1/2 and I cant remember her being a newborn - it seems like ages ago and yet it was only a little over 4 years. Time has no agenda, soon another birthday will go by, another holiday season and yet again - another deployment ... and just around the corner here comes that homecoming... to my little Maggie - who is growing before our eyes ( and yet I feel like I am missing it) I love you little munchkin... my 4 year old little munchkin!

The Blizzard of January 12, 2011

2011-01-12T19:39:00.010-05:00

So as they had predicted we did get quite the snowstorm today - most times we don't believe the hype - but today they came pretty darn close - I think we got at least 2 feet of snow, give or take and the wind it was a howling... but amid the chaos of Scott shoveling and a cranky 1 year old - my camera seemed to be in my hands at just the right time to capture some great moments!

First up would be the Cardinal that lives in or near our yard. In and out of the rhododendron bush and up in the tree - this little guy was posing for me today!

Next would be our totally awesome dog Astro! He loves the snow and was ecstatic to be outside playing in it today!

Last but certainly not least- seriously, what could be better than a kid in a snowsuit with a red nose and rosie cheeks - snow in their gloves, up their pants and down to their feet!
...and I must thank my awesome hubby, who not only got us all shoveled out - he even shoveled a path for the dog! The best!

The Art of Eating your 1st Birthday Cake

2011-01-10T10:07:00.011-05:00

The Art of eating your 1st birthday cake ( or in this case cupcake ) can only be preformed by, who else, a 1 year old. The act of devouring this delightfully delicious, sweeter than sweet treat is a journey that every one year old makes that marks that milestone!

My little one's snowman themed birthday party came complete with a snow storm and snowman cupcakes!

*The construction of the snowman cupcake is as follows: Base - 1 butter cream cupcake, Middle - 1 small chocolate cupcake covered with cream cheese frosting, Head- 1 chocolate truffle rolled in confectioners sugar, Scarf- a twizzler.

*Disclaimer - baker is not responsible for any sugar induced coma, sugar high or sugar crash caused from consuming part, all or multiple snowman cupcakes!

As the singing of Happy Birthday commenced - the look of, "I have absolutely no idea what is going on!" seems to appear on her face. Possibly she is slightly frightened, however as the candle is quickly blown out whatever nerves that may have been present are replaced by pure curiosity...

And so it begins...

First we tackle the head - the chocolate truffle - oh yum! This is pretty good! Soft and gooey, sugary sweet, it does not take long before...

The chocolate manages to cover her entire face and squish through her little fingers - which seem to have a death grip on whatever is left...

And FINALLY a SMILE!!!!

I would have to deem the consumption of her first birthday cupcake a complete success!!

My little red head turned 1 year old today...

2011-01-06T21:29:00.001-05:00

So my little red head has been on this earth for a year now - and yes I am very happy to report that her hair is still red!! very very red!!!

She is finally getting the hang of sleeping thru the night, though she has not perfected it yet... Her first words were Mum Mum and Da Da, a few of us have also heard her whisper "Abigail" and this morning she said Maggie twice:)

She loves the cats and tries to follow them wherever they go. She started walking at 9 months - which was a shocker to many of us - but one of the first "tricks" she learned was when the dog rings his bell to go out, she goes to the door, grabs his leash and waits! Seriously...

And my goodness does this little red head LOVE her big sister! Every morning Mags goes in her room and says "Good Morning Abigail" - Abby cannot get up and out of that crib fast enough and her smile just goes from ear to ear!

She is most definitely a little character - Lord only knows what she will say when she finally starts talking! What a trip it has been watching her grow this past year! The best, simply the best!

Happy Happy 1st Birthday my little red head!!!

A beautiful start to the new year...

2011-01-03T21:33:00.006-05:00

On January 1, 2011 - I had the pleasure of photographing the wedding of Amy-Lynne and Lesley. Amy-Lynne I have known since middle school, with help from the social network craze we were able to reconnect.
As some of you know, last year I launched a small photography business - with the encouragement and support of Amy-Lynne and so many of my friends and family I have been enjoying my new venture! Thank you Amy-Lynne and all the other wonderful people that have given me the opportunity to photograph them - Thank you for having faith in me to capture the moments that make your hearts smile...
Before I launched my business my friend John had posted this quote

"And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took it to blossom" ~ Anais Nin

Life is truly too short to not be doing what you love, if it has taken me 34 years to blossom than so be it - I am finally able to do something I love and to share it with those around me.
To Amy-Lynne and Lesley - I wish you nothing but complete happiness from now thru eternity...
Happy New Year my friends!

January 2010 ~ December 2010

2011-01-03T20:28:00.002-05:00

Complete - What an amazing journey...
Welcome to my journey: to capture a moment in time each day for 2010. All too often our days slip away so quickly we forget to stop and smell the roses or in this case take a picture of the rose. To capture a moment in time, to remember a feeling, a place, a person or even the weather. The simple things in life that make your heart smile. Here I go, to capture a rose... I can't express in words how happy I am that I decided to start this journey. Some truly wonderful things and not so wonderful things have happened to me and to us as a family since the beginning of the year: the birth of Abigail Grace, Maggie started Sea School, the purchase of my new camera, our puppy learned to catch a frisbee, the horrible flood in our basement that we are still recovering from and the list goes on. I am looking forward to continuing this adventure where ever it may take me...

December 31, 2010 ~ 365

2010-12-31T17:40:00.003-05:00

Picture number 365!! My project is complete!! bring on 2011~
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

December 30, 2010 ~ 364

2010-12-30T21:14:00.003-05:00

Camping in the living room!

December 29, 2010 ~ 363

2010-12-29T20:38:00.003-05:00

amy got to come down and visit with my kiddos today:)

December 28, 2010 ~ 362

2010-12-28T19:45:00.002-05:00

Mags loves her Penbo - santa did good!

December 27, 2010 ~ 361

2010-12-28T19:38:00.003-05:00

Silly times with Grammie

December 26, 2010 ~ 360

2010-12-26T21:01:00.001-05:00

Our crazy dog loving the snow!

December 25, 2010 ~ 359

2010-12-26T08:57:00.001-05:00

The best of surprise faces on Christmas morning:)

December 24, 2010 ~ 358

2010-12-24T22:14:00.002-05:00

Maddie, Maggie and Abby working on their cookies for Santa!

December 23, 2010 ~ 357

2010-12-23T20:54:00.002-05:00

Tried a new cookie recipe tonight! Wow - these are Paula Dean's Chocolate Gooey Butter cookies - yup, fantastic!

December 22, 2010 ~ 356

2010-12-22T20:53:00.002-05:00

A little self portrait for the end of the year, I ordered a new lens today, cant wait to try it out!

December 21, 2010 ~ 355

2010-12-21T20:36:00.002-05:00

Cant believe its almost christmas! my little mags is so excited!!

December 20, 2010 ~ 354

2010-12-20T21:27:00.002-05:00

All clean and ready for bed!

December 19, 2010 ~ 353

2010-12-19T20:49:00.003-05:00

My beautiful Aunt, getting ready to start her annual Christmas Concert

December 18, 2010 ~ 352

2010-12-18T20:22:00.002-05:00

Having a chat with Santa this morning during breakfast at the aquarium

December 17, 2010 ~ 351

2010-12-17T23:05:00.003-05:00

Mmmmm cookie swap:)

December 16, 2010 ~ 350

2010-12-16T21:56:00.003-05:00

All comfy and ready to watch the season finale of Burn Notice!!

December 15, 2010 ~ 349

2010-12-15T20:13:00.003-05:00

Snuggled in the chair watching a movie and reading some books:)

December 14, 2010 ~ 348

2010-12-14T22:16:00.002-05:00

10pm and Abs seems to be having a great time - me not so much... bed please!

December 13, 2010 ~ 347

2010-12-13T20:50:00.003-05:00

Tired - and apparently already dreaming, of snow perhaps?

December 12, 2010 ~ 346

2010-12-12T20:23:00.003-05:00

Yum! Spent the day covered in chocolate making all my christmas gifts! are you on my gift list this year? If so you can look forward to - chocolate covered pretzels!

December 11, 2010 ~ 345

2010-12-11T21:03:00.002-05:00

Another ornament from my childhood

December 10, 2010 ~ 344

2010-12-10T20:46:00.004-05:00

Picking out a heart for Clarice:) Mags has been wanting to go to build a bear and make her since she saw the commercial last month. She is cute - looks just like the cartoon character:)

December 9, 2010 ~ 343

2010-12-09T20:50:00.004-05:00

The girls playing in Astro's bed - I have no idea why but they were having fun:)