Shutterly Happy ~ The Photo Blog

Seattle ~ Tacoma

2011-06-08T01:15:00.001-07:00

For two days in a row my daughter wanted to go out with her camera with the idea of learning some tips and tricks from me. I took my own camera and since I was helping her, she could model for me in return. Fair trade, right!?! =) It was fun having my daughter ‘distract’ me from work and home stresses.

California Poppy

2011-05-24T11:37:00.001-07:00

This afternoon as I was returning home I noticed the poppies in bloom in our front yard and decided I just HAD to take a photograph. No particular reason, just because. Hey I’m a photographer, it’s my prerogative!

Round Robin Challenge: Graffiti

2011-05-21T02:37:00.001-07:00

A few weeks ago I stumbled upon this garage filled with graffiti during a senior portrait shoot. It was a perfect escape from the famous Northwest rain.

Then I saw the challenge and knew I had to return to the garage for a few more photos without the senior. During this last visit to the garage, I learned that the garage is open for artist to come and leave their mark on the walls on any given Sunday. Anything with profanity, meanness or vulgar would be removed/painted over immediately.

A lady came and parked her car into her assigned stall as I was taking photos and she said she enjoys coming each Monday to see what new items have been added and sometimes she was sad to see some of the beautiful art get painted over. I guess if I came the week before I would have seen Marylyn Monroe gracing the walls of the garage.

Below are some of the art work (aka graffiti) on the garage walls, I hope you enjoy as much as I did.

None of the above graffiti remained from a few weeks ago when I was doing the senior portrait session.

Be sure to stop and check out more art work/graffiti here –> Round Robin: Graffiti

Goodbye

2011-01-28T21:10:00.001-08:00

“Goodbyes are not forever. Goodbyes are not the end. They simply mean I’ll miss you until we meet again!” ~ Author Unknown

The current Round Robin theme is “Goodbye”. I actually took a photo that I especially wanted to use for this particular theme and I’m pretty positive that I formatted that card before uploading it to my computer! Unfortunately, the photo was just for fun and I was in an urgent need for more memory at a wedding last weekend.

So, I guess once again I’m resorting to ‘cheating’ and using some photos from a few weddings that represent ‘good-bye’ … good-bye to single life. Or in these cases, goodbye party … hello honeymoon!

They often leave in black town car limos ….

Others leave in a classic Rolls Royce limo ….

The adventurous bride leave in a Jeep with beer cans clanging behind ….

And then the truly brave bride will exit and say goodbye while having bird seed thrown at them!

Don’t say goodbye without stopping at the other Round Robin participants! You can find them right over there –> ROUND ROBIN

Thank you for stopping by to visit!

Symbols

2010-12-17T23:37:00.001-08:00

The current Round Robin topic is from Ruth, the Scrabblequeen and the topic is ‘Symbols’. My original hopes and intentions were to go into Seattle and take a photo of the Space Needle and Pike Place Market – very iconic of Seattle. However, the first opportunity I’ll have is … well, today! I’m going up there to do a family portrait session.

I feel like I’m ‘cheating’ by using my work related photos for this particular challenge. However, there are many symbols involved with weddings that I decided to go ahead and use some photographs from weddings we have had the honor to photograph.

The wedding ring is the most instantly recognizable symbol for married couples. There are many theories about the origins of the wedding ring. I’ll go with a ring is a circle which symbolizes eternal. In this case, hopefully eternal love for each other. =)

The unity candle (variations – the rose ceremony, unity sand, etc.) Generally a family member from the couples families will lit the two candles which represent their individual lives. During the ceremony they will take their individual candles to lite the one in marriage. Many couples blow out their individual candles. However, lately I see more keeping them lit to symbolize that they aren’t losing their individuality in the unity.

Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue … This is from our most recent wedding. The bride’s something old is the handkerchief that her grandmother received from her grandfather while he was serving in WWI. The something new is the pearl bracelet, Something blue – the ring and something borrowed is the frog that belongs to her sister.

Now what are they supposed to symbolize? Each in a sense are to symbolize good luck.

Something old – continuity to the bride’s family and the past

Something new - optimism and hope for the bride's new life ahead

Something borrowed – an item from a happily married friend or family member, whose good fortune in marriage is supposed to carry over to the new bride.

Something blue - Before the late 19th century, blue was a popular color for wedding gowns, as evidenced in proverbs like, "Marry in blue, lover be true."

Now are you the least bit curious as to what other symbols were found by those who participated in the Round Robin Photo Challenge? Let’s go check them out by clicking –> HERE! =)

Before & After

2010-12-03T23:32:00.001-08:00

This current Round Robin Challenge was suggested by Vicki of Maraca. The topic is 'Before and After' Being exactly as it says: anything "before" and, well, "after."

I briefly considered a photo of our Thanksgiving dinner before everyone ate and then again afterwards. However, I got busy and caught up in the day. Meaning I forgot. =) I thought okay, Christmas decorations. Except we will be doing that THIS weekend. IF things had gone as scheduled I could have shown you the before and after photos of our kitchen remodel. Instead all I have is before and 'in progress', which isn't the challenge. (sigh)

The kitchen before the start of remodeling. It had THREE doorways for such a small kitchen. And do you see the cord running along the door frame on the right? That's the plug for the refrigerator! REALLY! The kitchen had a drop down ceiling, pink 60's PLASTIC tiles and blue flooring. BTW, the kitchen photos were taken with my point and shoot that I carry in my purse.

As you can see, this isn't a true after photo as work is still in progress. The stove still needs to be replaced (after Christmas), walls and ceiling need to be finished, upper cabinets ... so much work still ahead! Oh and if it had been day time when I took this current photo of the kitchen you would be able to see more of the big window in the dining/living room. Everything is new in this kitchen ... or will be once the stove is replaced and the new overhead microwave is installed.

Okay so back to the entry, it now means I need to do some actual thinking to come up with a "REAL" entry for this challenge ... oh my, this is going to hurt! Then today, PAY Day came along and inspired this before and after entry! =)

My poor wallet before payday ....

And my wallet after I cash the check ... (sweet) BUT, it was before I paid bills, bought groceries, etc ...

And my wallet again after I paid the bills, got the groceries, Uncle Sam took his cut, etc .... (sigh)

That didn't last long! At least I have A dollar to my name! Shhh, I better not let it be known that a dollar is still in my wallet or someone will nab it, like my husband or daughter. Now be sure to check out the other Round Robin participants. I promise it won't hurt your wallet! =)

Link to -> Round Robin Photo Challenge

Giving Thanks

2010-11-25T00:56:00.001-08:00

This is actually a post I wrote for my business blog. Then I was thinking I'd share it here too as I have the same wishes for my friends here on the net. =)

Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorite holidays. Not so much for the feast that many families have, though I can't deny I enjoy a good meal! It's meant getting the family all together, shared conversations, catching up with those you love. I suppose some say Christmas is good for that and to a degree that is true. Except at Christmas I feel a bit of pressure to buy gifts for everyone and sometimes finding that right gift can be difficult. Especially when you get someone like myself - I have what I want when it comes to physical/material items.

Those who know my lack of desire to cook, might be surprised that Thanksgiving is a favorite time and I actually enjoy cooking a nice family dinner for this special occasion. However if I must be honest, I can't really say that I enjoy all the dishes afterwards! Wait, I can give thanks for the dishwasher and for family members who help clean up!

While this year has provided it's own challenges it's also provided me with many reasons to be thankful and grateful. Here is a brief personal list of things that I'm thankful/grateful for this year.

~ My husband and business partner, he has allowed me to pursue what I love. And not once did he discourage me from starting the business then dragging him around with me! I think he actually enjoyed this himself, even if it wasn't something he would have visualized for himself before I came into his life.

~ My three children who have led healthy productive lives and fill my life with love. laughter and even a bit of frustration that just reminds me life is a learning process that we must sometimes learn on our own.

~ My precious granddaughters who will test their daddy just the way he has tested me in the past! For their hugs, smiles and laughter.

~ I'm thankful for my parents who owned their own businesses. It was because of this I went forward with creating my own business with NO FEAR. Maybe I should have had some fear and worries but, I just knew deep in my heart this was right! I miss them terribly and I feel they would be very proud of what I have accomplished and of the wonderful man (my husband) who supports me through this journey.

~ Lastly, I am thankful for all the wonderful customers we've been blessed to photograph, to be a part of such an important day in their lives, to welcome a new baby into their families, to document their lives as they unfold. We have met some truly wonderful and inspirational people with this business.

We wish you, your family and friends a very 'Happy Thanksgiving'. Enjoy the holiday with those you love, laugh with them, embrace the moment and remember to give thanks for having love in your life!

Color-blinded by Love

2010-11-20T00:20:00.001-08:00

This week the Round Robin Photo Challenge is titled "Colorblind". Which was suggested by Nancy of Nancy Luvs Pix, a woman who's photography and blogging I had followed and admired from way back in the day of AOL had journals. I MISS those connections! (that's getting off subject). The instructions were simple enough: "Basically, take a photo of something, change the color...make it interesting!"

At first I wasn't going to participate as I normally don't like a lot of over editing on a photo. However, sometimes it's good to get out and "color outside the lines"! So, with that in mind I'm here. I'm titling my submission, "Color-blinded by Love". Be sure to check out the other creative minds and photos, just click here -> ROUND ROBIN

Here is what the photo would look like without the colorblind treatment.

In The Window

2010-11-06T00:36:00.001-07:00

I signed up for the current Round Robin Challenge "In The Window" with the idea that I'd find something fantastic to photograph while in Maryland or DC. Of course once I was with family, I was completely distracted by grandchildren and forgot about the challenge! And yes, there were plenty of opportunities. Yesterday I checked the Round Robin Blog to see when the next challenge was due. Uh oh ... TOMORROW! What to do? Dig in the archives of course and if all else fails, go outside and tease the kitty so you can get a photo that way. =)

This is my daughters cat, Sapphire or also known as Sassy. She was named Sapphire because of her incredible two toned blue eyes. BTW, pardon the boxes behind her, we are remodeling and everything is a mess. (sigh)

Okay I admit, this is pushing it. I took this photo during the last challenge of bridges. This is part of the Chihuly Bridge of Glass in Tacoma. Along the bridge are these "WINDOWS" (work with me - they are display windows after all) of Chihuly glass. I love glass so this bridge is always a delight to me even if it never changes.

I'm going to go ahead and share one additional photo from the Chihuly Bridge of Glass. This is an overhead 'window' display of Chihuly glass.

Looking at the car of his dreams through the window. This was taken at the Smithsonian Museum of American History it was on our last day when this sparked the memory of the challenge. So, despite my thinking I wasn't prepared, I guess I was! =)

If you would like to peek into some other windows just click here to view more from other participants: Round Robin Photo Challenge.

Bridges

2010-10-22T22:48:00.001-07:00

A foot bridge to a fishing pier with a view of Mt Rainier.

Looking toward the Cable Stay Bridge from the Museum of Glass in Tacoma.

This was taken on the Chihuly Bridge of Glass (pedestrian bridge) that allows people to get from downtown to the waterfront where the Museum of Glass is located, which would otherwise be blocked by the interstate.

I had hoped to share 2 additional bridges; our 'Narrows Bridge' but, I got distracted at the Museum of Glass and never got past the bridges shown above. =) The other was the beautiful Golden Gate Bridge from my former hometown of SF. I couldn't find my disc with a photo that I took while on a ferry of bridge at sunset. (sigh, it was a favorite photo of mine too!)

** Last minute addition. This is 'London Bridge', which I have crossed in England and now in Arizona. My daughter was amazed that the entire bridge was saved and transported to another country and a completely different environment. The first is the bridge and the second is of us on the bridge.

Be sure to take a moment or two to check out the others who participated in the Round Robin Photo Challenge of Bridges.

Thank you for stopping by and please feel free to share your thoughts!

By The Water ...

2010-07-31T00:08:00.001-07:00

The current Round Robin challenge is "By The Water". Any interpretation is fine. =) A glass of water, a watering hole, the ocean, etc.

Recently we were on Orcas Island for business and spent an extra day on the island exploring. This first photo was taken on the ferry to the island.

We were delighted to find the following waterfall at Moran State Park on the island. The first photo shows the beauty, the second photo shows the size, while not huge that's my 6'3" tall son standing by the waterfall. =) Second was taken at a slightly different angle.

Be sure to check out others who have taken the time to participate: Round Robin. Thank you for visiting!

pimiento verde y rojo

2010-07-19T15:08:00.001-07:00

Summer is such a busy time of the year for me with my business. However, I've really wanted to take a moment or two to participate in Martha's Color Carnival. Luckily, I found the perfect opportunity while my son was home for a visit we went to Pike Place Market in Seattle where I photographed these lovely colorful peppers.

To view other colorful (and cheerful) photographs just click here-> Color Carnival!

Garden Portraits

2010-06-05T00:46:00.001-07:00

For this current photo theme, I knew I HAD to use a couple of older photographs from last summer.

One of my favorite flowers are the Dahlia's. Before we moved, we had a large variety in our sunny backyard. Unfortunately our new yard is small and mostly all shade. I guess that means finding new flowers that prefer shade! =)

This next Dahlia I found last summer at Point Defiance Park in Tacoma . I loved the delicate look of this beauty. I wish I could find this one for my yard.

This last photo was also taken at Point Defiance Park this past weekend. I thought I would share a rose. I was thinking it might be a 'Peace Rose' however the edges seem darker than the Peace Roses I've seen before. Maybe a variation?

I'm glad I had the opportunity to participate, thank you Carly and Karen for all you do to keeping the Round Robin active and fun! =)

.Comments are appreciated, I will be by Sunday to visit all who participated! Be sure to a moment or two to check out the others who took the time and effort to participated: Round Robin Garden Portraits.

** In my eagerness, I realized I didn't read the full instructions so here is an overview or 'full' (actually only a quarter at most) photo of the Rose Garden at Point Defiance Park in Tacoma.

Copious of Color

2010-05-15T08:59:00.001-07:00

The bride went to Pike Place Market in Seattle the day before her wedding and had an abundant selection of colors and textures for all to enjoy on her wedding day

Be sure to take a moment to check out others who have participated in the Color Carnival Photo Theme.

Bounty of Color

2010-04-30T20:23:00.001-07:00

I've been enjoying this opportunity to return to 'Bloggerville' and playing along with the various photo themes. This time it's Color Carnival, hosted by Martha. (waving hi to Martha)

At first I thought I wouldn't have anything for this particular photo theme as it's been raining here in the Northwest. (what's new!) Then I found this photo and decided to share the bounty of color in the form of delicious sweet fruit.

Did I just make you hungry for some fresh fruit?

Fern Horns?

2010-04-26T13:11:00.001-07:00

As I mentioned in my previous post, it's been a LONG time since I've had the opportunity to participate in the photo challenges/themes. Business has been good. =) However, I am learning one must take time to have some fun too!

Here is my contribution to the Ruby Tuesday Photo Theme.

Last year we had a Chihuly exhibit at the Conservatory here in Tacoma. It made for some interesting visuals with the different shapes and textures.

English Primrose

2010-04-26T12:47:00.001-07:00

It's been a LONG time since I've had the opportunity to participate in any of the photo challenges/themes. I've been missing them!

Here is my contribution to the Mellow Yellow Photo Theme, it's a beautiful black and yellow English Primrose.

Fix it Friday - from the past!

2010-04-24T13:17:00.001-07:00

This isn't the current Fix it Friday photo. However, I went and snagged all the past photos and figured during some down periods I would do my own edits on them. Unfortunately for me, I don't know if I will find out how others edited the same photo.

This little guy was adorable and I simply couldn't let the distractions around him take away from him. =) Don't you just want to pick him up and hug him? I do!

This first photo is the original that we are given to edit. The second is my edit.

As I mentioned I wanted to remove any distractions and bring full attention to his face. =) Cropping eliminated a lot of the distractions, a little blurring of the background did the rest. Other edits include light adjustment and brightening his eyes a wee bit was all it took.

In 3's

2010-04-23T18:39:00.001-07:00

It's time once again for the Round Robin Photo Challenge! Time sure flies when your having fun or when your so busy you that time simply escapes you. The current challenge is "In 3's" - The Challenge is to take and present three different pictures of the same subject or theme.

As you will see by my entry below, I got carried away ... just a wee bit, right! =)

My husband and our dog, Toby playing fetch.

My THREE children. Each different and unique in their own way.

Once again our dog, Toby. Shaking off the water, thinking he's a lap dog (silly boy) and patiently waiting for he okay to eat a hot dog!

Three views of one waterfall - Ponytails Falls not far from the Multnomah Falls on the Columbia Gorge in Oregon. BEAUTIFUL area one I HIGHLY recommend seeing. =)

Three different views of Mt Rainier, I never get tired of looking out and seeing the mountain so majestic.

The last two are business related. =)

From an engagement session, they were such a fun couple! I want more like them ... please. =)

Dancing/spinning bride.

I hope you enjoyed your visit! Please take a moment to visit the other participants and say hi as well. =) Just click on the link below:

Round Robin Photo Challenge

Cosmetic Surgery

2010-04-18T11:23:00.001-07:00

The other day my daughter and I were talking about magazine covers and how much editing they do on a person. She didn't think they could change a person that much until she saw what I did to her photo. Check out what Dr Monica did to my daughter.

Straight from the camera

I exaggerated a lot of things on her just to make a point. I thinned her body and face, narrowed her nose, smoothed her skin, brightened and widened her eyes,

Now she understand how many changes can be made to a person in the magazines. Of course IF she used the "fixed" photo it wouldn't be a true representation of herself or her personality.

Fix it Friday # 50

2010-04-16T20:39:00.001-07:00

I haven't had the opportunity to participate in the "I Heart Faces" Fix it Friday in a very long time! When I have participated, I've rarely added my own link to the site. However, today I decided I'd fully play along. Besides the bit of distraction came in handy today! =) (prevented me from getting into trouble!)

This first photo is the original that we've been given to fix. All the following photos were my edits. Isn't she a beautiful young lady?

Pretty basic here, lightened, removed dark under eye shadows and smoothed her skin complexion.

Decided to play with the saturation, some texture and vignetting.

Decided to crop the image, bring the focus to her face.

Thanks for stopping by please feel free to leave some feedback, ideas or suggestions as they are always welcomed. =)

Almost Photo

2010-04-09T20:28:00.001-07:00

The current theme for the Round Robin Photo Challenge is 'The Almost Photo'. You know the photo that could have been a great picture, but for some reason it just didn't work out! We all have them, I generally delete them and move on.

Two weeks ago Sonny and I were photographing a wedding. With us was a new intern who wants to get into wedding photography. I always teach them to keep their eyes on what happens when I'm setting up the group shots. It's during that time when the really fun candid photo opportunities happen.

During the set up of the bride with the groomsmen, I noticed the intern/wanna be assistant was in her own little dream world. Then out of the corner of my eye I saw this ....

Check out the expression on the groomsmen directly behind the bride. What was so happening? Unfortunately, I don't know as I was distracted with set up and wasn't focused on them at that moment. (sigh)

This last photo is my granddaughter, Amelia. She was planning on planting a wet kiss on me. My intention was to sneak a photo of her as she wasn't allowing me to take any pictures that day. It could have been a fun photo if it was in focus! =)

Be sure to check out the other Round Robin Participants!
ROUND ROBIN PHOTO CHALLENGE

Look Up ~ Look Down

2010-03-13T09:21:00.001-08:00

I had great plans to get out with my camera for this challenge. The photos I had in my imagination had nothing to do with brides, flowers or anything related to weddings.

Then IT happened. My 'mud wrestling' experience where the mud won. I was simply walking to my car and hit a muddy slope that grabbed me and took me down in a heartbeat. My ankle went one direction, knee decided to go the reverse direction of the ankle, the hip not wanting to be left out went with the ankle and the low back decided to go with the knee!

No major injuries. However, I felt like a 90+ year old woman. Today, I feel about 70. Maybe in a few more days I'll feel my age or even younger would be nice! =)

Anyway, due to the mud wrestling event, I've been reduced to sharing wedding photos. (sorry)

Using a monopod, held high over head, looking down on the entire wedding. Taken at the Rose Garden at Point Defiance Park, Tacoma.

This photo I actually took a few days before the fall, it's looking down the flowers in my front yard. =)

Now to look up a bit in life. =) I've share both of these photos before and I apologize that they are repeats.

This is Ray Bethell a 90 something man from Canada who does amazing work with his kites. What you can't see is that he's controlling FOUR kites, three are in formation the 4th is a mere speck in the photo. He controls a kite with each of his hands and the other two are controlled by his knees/legs/hip movements! When I'm 90 I want to get around and move like he does!

Here is a photo looking up at my daughter Kimberly. The first time I posted this photo, things were looking up for her as she was approved for a home loan. This time, things are looking up because she is now living in the home she is buying! =)

Thank you for stopping by! I look forward to seeing what was down or up your neighborhood. =) Check out the other participants here: ROUND ROBIN

Childhood Memories

2010-02-12T22:11:00.001-08:00

In late January we purchased a home and have been busy moving and slowly attempting to get our lives back in order. A few days ago we finally were connected to the internet again and I had an urging to go check up on the latest challenge over at the Round Robin Photo Challenge.

When I saw it was "Childhood Memories" I was thinking this could be fun and a charming step back in time., I have to do this! Then I read on and they said I suggested it!!! With everything that has been happening I had totally forgotten. I'm glad I got the internet in time to participate. =)

This was my beloved "Tiggy". I insisted that he WAS a tiger. In my young childhood mind, ALL big cats were tigers. People would tell me it was a leopard and I thought they were ALL stupid! Come on, he looks like a Tiggy, right! =) (sigh)

Our family cat obviously didn't like him and took off a section of Tiggy's nose. So much trauma I really don't remember it happening. Though I still to this day remember being in tears when he lost his eye and my mom had to sew on a button and insisted that Tiggy could see once again. I think he's only got one good eye. What's your opinion on his eye condition?

I didn't take this photograph above. It's a scanned copy of a photo I have. This was my dad's bookstore in Ojai, CA called Bart's Books. While other children went to a park to play, this was my playground filled with books, comic books, an art easel, our bad kitty and lots of fun people.

This is the inside how it looks now. It's still gives me warm fuzzies when I think of being there! =) If you go to Southern California I HIGHLY recommend you stop in Ojai and check out the bookstore. Yes, it's still in operation.

This last photo I'm sharing is downtown Ojai. I walked so many times down this street as I headed to school or when my mom took me with her when she did some shopping. =)

One time we looked into a store window and I (we) saw MARY POPPINS! They tried to tell me her name was Julie Andrews or some silly name like that. I KNEW ... it WAS MARY POPPINS! Oh, and she was really sweet to me but didn't pull anything out of her bag much to my disappointment. What was up with that?

It was fun going back in time. I look forward to visiting everyone's childhood memories on Sunday as I have a wedding to photograph Saturday.

Have a great weekend and thanks for letting my inner child come out to play again! =)

Birds

2009-08-22T00:20:00.001-07:00

When I first saw the subject of the current Round Robin Photo Challenge I was going to pass. There were plenty of excuses, mostly lacking time to get out and find birds to photograph. As I was thinking that my 'Tookie Bird' (his name) started whistling at me as if to say "HEY, what about ME!?!"

Ohhhhhhhhhh, I have Tookie Bird to photograph and I don't even have to get up from my desk as he's right here next to me always trying to entertain and capture my attention away from working on wedding photos. :-)

Isn't he a handsome fellow?

He's also curious about things happening around him.

A peacock I found roaming outside the zoo parking lot. He was hoping I had a treat for him. I didn't and he quickly lost interest in me. Such vibrant colors on the fellow above and then later I found an albino peacock sitting near a picnic area of the park.

This last photo isn't of a bird, it's my precious little guy, Jett who spotted a bird outside. While he knows he can't go close to Tookie Bird, he seems to feel wild birds are open game. ::sigh::

Please be sure to take a look at the others who participated - Round Robin. Those who stop by, thank you! I will visit your blog on Sunday as I have a long wedding to photograph on Saturday.

Peek-a-Boo

2009-07-27T02:18:00.001-07:00

I see you!

It's been a while since I've had time to participate in the Monochrome Weekly photo theme. Today as I was going through an old file from last year, I found this little guy who begged to be shared. Please take a moment to check out other participants and please remember I always appreciate the time you took to visit and comment! :-) (I'll stop by to visit your blog and comment ... I just might be a wee bit late!)

Sunshine Flower

2009-07-27T01:07:00.001-07:00

I don't know the real name of this flower but, it made me feel happy like a ray of sunshine. So, I call it my sunshine flower.

Doesn't it make you smile too?

For other delightful and cheerful yellows be sure to check out the other participants at Mellow Yellow. For some awesome looking macros check out Macro Monday. Of course it's always fun to see flowers from different parts of the land at Today's Flowers.

My Vehicle of Choice

2009-07-25T01:22:00.001-07:00

This weeks theme for the Round Robin Photo Challenges is "My Vehicle of Choice". I drive an older SUV, a 1999 blue Honda Passport. I LOVE driving it, especially in the snow or on the beach. :-) If only I could drive on the beach more often. Photo taken when I bought it.

I TRY to obey the traffic laws as I don't want to get stopped by one of these guys who's vehicle of choice is a motorcycle. These police officers were visiting some children at the local children's hospital. What a line up!

I've enjoyed riding on the back of our Gold Wing - as long as my hair was tied up! Well, I did until my husband 'dropped' the bike as he was driving to work. I'm just glad I wasn't on the bike when he went down! Yes, he's fine, no injuries except to the poor bike.

If you really want to save fuel, there's always the pedal bike. The second one (red helmet) is my husband Sonny on a tandem bike he built. He's now building a tandem for two. I'm looking forward to riding with him. :-) This was taken during the 'Tour de Pierce' last month.

Some folks might opt for the taxi to get them around town. This looks like an interesting taxi! It's no Cash Cab, but, it should be a ride filled with grins and giggles.

"Baby you can drive my car, and maybe I'll love you ..." This was a car that belonged to John Lennon. I don't think they'll let us drive this car. No matter what, it's an intriguing vehicle of choice.

And my vehicle of choice right now IF I could, would be this sailboat sailing off into the sunset. Peaceful, serene and graceful. I could use a little of those in my life. right now. Just click on the photo to enlarge and let your mind escape.

Be sure to check out other vehicles of choice from the Round Robin participants. Round Robin.

Dahlia's

2009-07-12T23:04:00.001-07:00

Lately I haven't had much time to participate in any of the photo themes listed on my sidebar. Today I'll be truly multi-tasking and posting photos that will fit the following photo themes: Mellow Yellow Monday, Macro Monday, Today's Flower and the last but certainly not least Ruby Tuesday.

While the flowers aren't predominately yellow, they are stunning and are one of my favorite flowers. I hope you enjoy these two Dahlia's, that I took at Point Defiance Park in Tacoma, WA.

Shades of Silence

2009-07-11T00:00:00.001-07:00

“See how nature - trees, flowers, grass - grows in silence: see the stars, the moon and the sun, how they move in silence ... we need silence to be able to touch souls. "
~ Mother Theresa

Living in the great Northwest, it's easy for me to find many wonderful silent and peaceful locations that are perfect for thoughts and prayer.

Looking out on Elliot Bay in Seattle. This was taken moments before an outdoor wedding was to start. They got married with this view in front of them.

Commencement Bay, Tacoma at sunset. Taken as a wedding reception ended and all the music and festivities ended, leaving us with some much desired peace and silence.

This is my personal favorite oasis at Mt Rainier National Park, Mowich Lake. I always walk away with a great sense of peace with the world and/or myself. No weddings, just some much needed rest, relaxation and SILENCE.

Shhhhh, silence please. Daddy's little angel, a flower girl at a wedding we photographed is now sleeping.

Now quietly make your way over to the Round Robin's to see what others photographed for the subject of 'Silence'. Also, thanks to all who played along, I look forward to seeing what you have and I of course appreciate your comments.

Tacoma Sunset

2009-07-06T19:01:00.001-07:00

Tuesday means it's time for Ruby Tuesday and My World Tuesday and amazingly I'm able to pull double duty out of one photo. :-)

Yesterday when I was returning home from an Operation: Love Reunited photo shoot, I saw that the setting sun was casting a pink shade of color on Mt Rainier. As much as I wanted to head home and just put my feet up for a wee bit, I couldn't let this pass, so I headed to my favorite elevated spot to get this photo.

Today I share with you one of our Tacoma Sunsets. :-) I love living here.

Razzle Dazzle

2009-06-18T22:21:00.001-07:00

The other day we were doing a photo shoot for Op: Love Reunited. It's a free portrait shoot for military who are deploying, deployed and for the homecoming.

During the session, we went to the Rose Garden at Point Defiance Park in Tacoma and these particular roses caught my attention. For a brief moment I was distracted from the job on hand.

However, I knew it would be a good fit for Martha's Color Carnival. The roses are an explosion of reds and yellows. I hope you enjoy the colors.

Now be sure to check out the other colorful sights found at Color Carnival.

Mt Rainier Sky Watch

2009-06-18T21:36:00.001-07:00

I've only participated in the Sky Watch photo theme once before and as promised, I went back to the same location to photograph the sky around Mt Rainier.

This first photo is from the first time I played along - this is for those who may have missed it the first time.

The second photo was taken today from the same location. Can you find our beautiful Mt Rainier?

Nope, I can't either, it's as if there is no mountain there.

Please be sure to check out the skies from other parts of the country and world! Sky Watch Friday.

Blooming Delight

2009-06-15T10:07:00.001-07:00

I know that right now I SHOULD be working but, here I am blogging away instead. Honestly, I'm not feeling terribly guilty about it ... yet. :-)

This flower is a triple photo theme entry. It's Mellow Yellow Monday, Macro Monday and Today's Flowers. Many thanks to those who host these fun photo themes. Be sure to check out the others who have shared their Mellow Yellow photos and their Macro's by clicking on the links provided.

Unfortunately I'm NOT the gardner in our family so I'm clueless on the name of this beautiful flower.

Thanks for visiting and your comments are always appreciated. :-)

*** Update: I've learned the flower is a Peony.

Looking UP!

2009-06-13T03:14:00.001-07:00

As always, I'm stunned to realize two weeks have once again flown past me. I am happy to say that I have a NEW photo that I'm sharing. However, I also went into the archives for the other two.

* All three photos were taken with my trusty in the purse point and shoot. Not sure why but, I've decided that maybe I should be pointing that out as I often use that over the DSLR which is for "work".

Before I get into a rambling rampage, the theme for this weeks Round Robin Photo Challenge is "Looking Up".

This man is inspirational and had me completely memorized. If anyone ever gets the chance to see Ray Bethell perform in person, DO! Below is a link to a clip found on You Tube.

Ray isn't flying one kite, he flies MULTIPLE kites doing aerobatic maneuvers reminiscent of the Blue Angels. Ray is an older gentleman, age unknown as he doesn't share that bit of information. His assistant told me several years ago that Ray had to be in his late 80's from conversations they shared.

The last photo is of my beautiful 26 year old (can I say she's still single and looking) daughter who was just pre-approved for a home loan and is now in the process of house shopping! It's such an exciting (and stressful) time in her life right now. Things are looking UP in her life. :-)

Be sure to check out the other participants by clicking here-> ROUND ROBIN. *I'm heading of town this weekend and will visit all the robins when I return.

In Search of Mt Rainier

2009-06-11T20:43:00.001-07:00

We live fairly close to an Army post. You can tell new soldiers that behind the clouds is a great mountain. They'll look at you like you've lost your mind. It looks as flat as can be from the post on a cloudy day.

When we finally get a beautiful clear day and they walk out, they are stunned to find a HUGE mountain. Our beautiful and most majestic, Mt. Rainier.

I decided I'd join Sky Watch Friday's and photograph the mountain from the same vantage point over the next few months. (It's highly unlikely I'd be able to play weekly) It will give you an idea of how she often cloaks herself with the clouds.

One day it will look as if you could reach out and touch her. Other days she looks very distant and then there are days, sometimes weeks you don't see her at all.

I hope you enjoyed my first entry for the Sky Watch photo theme. Be sure to check out other skies around the world. Sky Watch Friday.

Pick Quick

2009-06-09T20:45:00.001-07:00

One of my favorite places to go for a hamburger is "Pick Quick". There is no indoor restaurant style dining here. You order your meal, wait for it to be cooked fresh.

Then the best part comes, on a beautiful day you take your tray of food and find a picnic table surrounded by trees and cheery colorful flowers. This place full fills more than your taste buds.

After each meal I feel at peace with the world and myself. That may sound hokey but, when you sit there eating your mean surrounded by greenery, flowers and chirping birds you can't help but feel grateful to be alive.

So, if you come to my part of the world, be sure to stop here for a visit. Eat a good hamburger, smell the flowers and feel good!

Be sure to take a moment to visit other parts of our world. My World Tuesday.

Double Trouble

2009-06-08T23:41:00.001-07:00

Martha and her son at Menagerie started a new photo theme for Tuesdays called "Double Trouble". This is running on a trail basis so I hope everyone goes over and encourages her son to keep this up.

The idea is to find and photograph something in pairs.

So, I hear you asking, WHY am I photographing a SINGLE dog? I suppose I could say he has a PAIR of LARGE ears. But, that's not the real reason.

While he appears to be a sweet looking single dog, he seems to have this invisible evil twin who knocks over the trash and scatters it ALL OVER the house on a daily basis ... at least ONCE a day if not more.

This 'twin' also took a rotisserie chicken that I bought for our dinner and I had put it on the back part of the counter until dinner. However, when I returned to the kitchen I found that this invisible evil twin had pulled the chicken off the counter and ate the ENTIRE chicken!

One morning when I was busy with my two granddaughters, I found the evil twin had pulled plates out of the sink and dropped them to the floor so he could lick them clean for us! Oh and he broke a few while trying to clean.

No, this is NOT my dog, he's my grand-dog. My son (a cop) rescued him from the streets. Gage was bone thin and abused. They are working hard to train him ... errr his evil twin that is.

I must add, that despite the problems his 'twin' caused, I fell in love with Gage. Both my granddaughters climb all over him and he just looks at them and sighs. The baby gets a way with the most. She sleeps on top of him.

The first morning I was at their house, I started to go in the girls room and he stopped me cold. My son, assured Gage I was okay and he handed me my youngest granddaughter. The dog watched me carefully and when he saw the baby hugging me and happy, I was allowed into his pack. :-)

Gage is a keeper, his evil twin on the other hand ...

Smile!

2009-06-08T18:44:00.001-07:00

It's once again time for a Mellow Yellow Monday #22.

My husband bought this for me recently and put in a houseplant. He said it made him think of me as I was known as Smilin Mon by several of my co-workers when he met me.

Now tell me, how can you look at this and NOT smile? Come on, you know you want to smile! :-)

Nature Reclaims

2009-06-07T14:51:00.001-07:00

I've been wanting to participate in the Monochrome Weekly photo theme and haven't until now. This is my first time to participate.

I debated about the title, 'Nature Reclaims' or 'Abandoned Dreams'. The person had spent a lot of time building a small pond with a little waterfall near that bench, it looked as if it would have been an ideal place to daydream or find some inner peace.

Shake it Off

2009-06-02T23:00:00.001-07:00

I originally wanted to save this photo for the camera critters photo theme. However, I'm not very patient and decided to go ahead and share my very wet boy, Toby as shakes off all the water.

That's all water droplets flying toward ME! Lovely.

Be sure to check out other water theme photos at Watery Wednesday by clicking right HERE! And what the heck, I'm adding this and the raccoons below for Camera Critters which can be found HERE.

Double Trouble

2009-06-02T18:49:00.001-07:00

My friend Martha (from back in the days of AOL journals) and her son are hosting on a trial bases a new photo theme on Tuesdays, called 'Double Trouble'. I hope this catches on and they take it past the three week trial period.

For this first time, I'm digging through my archives and decided on these two who seem to be in search of trouble.

These two were approaching us while I was doing a family portrait session at Point Defiance Park in Tacoma. They kept inching closer to us and we decided they must've wanted a family portrait too.

Who was I to deny them a nice portrait? I've done many other portraits in that area and I've yet to see any sign of my racoon friends. (sigh).

Gum Wall

2009-06-01T17:37:00.001-07:00

This is my second time to participate with the Ruby Tuesday, and I hope it's only the second of many more to come. :-) I keep my eyes open for photo ops at all times now.

What you are looking at is known as the "gum wall" at Post Alley in Seattle. You are not going to believe the "ewwww" factor of this tradition that has become a living art installation sought out by photographers.

The Market Theater in Post Alley at Pike Place Public Market has given up cleaning the gum it's patrons began sticking to the alley's brick wall while they were waiting in line. It's a habit that has stuck. Originally coins were pressed into the colorful gum blobs. Some people still affix a penny, but those quickly disappear.

After two complete removals and cleanings, the theater realized the futility of trying to keep the gum off. It is now become a 'public art installation', and a participatory one that grows daily.

Please be sure to check out the others who have shared their ruby photos here -> Ruby Tuesday.

My World - Tacoma

2009-06-01T13:57:00.001-07:00

This is my first time to participate in the 'My World' Tuesday. Since I gave up the world of blogging as I knew it, and am now only focused on photography (a HUGE part of my life), by giving up the chatty blog it has allowed me to actually go out and have FUN with the camera.

This particular photo was taken from downtown Tacoma a few days ago. While Tacoma isn't a tourist destination like Seattle, I feel it has some very worthy qualities that get overlooked. My hope is to share some of the quirks and beauty of Tacoma with you over the weeks/months ahead.

What appealed to me was the view of our majestic MT Rainier and the bridge off to the left, all this from a downtown location. .

Thanks for stopping by, I appreciate the time you took and I won't lie, I LOVE when comments are left too! :-) Be sure to check out other parts of the world by clicking on -> MY WORLD

Yellow Begonia

2009-05-31T20:27:00.001-07:00

Is it cheating if I use one photo for two photo themes? I think not, I've seen plenty of others do it so, I'm going to myself. :-)

This evening Sonny (my husband) and I decided it was a perfect evening to have dinner at the park. We grabbed some sandwiches, our drinks and enjoyed our meal at a local park.

Once there I was wishing I had my camera,then I remembered I had my little point and shoot camera, and that would work!

A close up of a yellow begonia.

Be sure to check out what others found that's yellow: HERE And for Macro Monday, just click HERE. A 3rd photo theme, Today's Flowers can be found HERE.

And for those of you who haven't seen a yellow begonia (like myself) here is a link to check out: yellow begonia.

Growing - Round Robin

2009-05-30T00:43:00.001-07:00

When I heard about the subject for this weeks Round Robin Challenge I had ideas of sharing some photos of my dog as a puppy growing, or possibly of my own children growing.

Then it hit me, it would mean I'd have to scan photos to do either of those entries. Right now my scanner isn't playing nice. Besides, it would be nice to have some new current photos to use!

As I was walking into the house a few days ago I found my subject for this photo challenge. Off to my right as I enter my house is a large colorful Rhododendron bush.

I photographed the same bud as it grew into this bright large blossom over the week.

Be sure to check out the other photographers who have participated in this weeks Round Robin Challenge.

Colorful Kayaks

2009-05-22T22:16:00.001-07:00

My Friend Martha is once again hosting the Color Carnival this weekend. No rules, just COLOR!

For those of you participate in the Round Robin Photo Challenge, you may recognize this photo as I recently posted it for their theme of 'floating'.

We were standing on the pier enjoying the peace and serenity of this "hidden" spot. Within minutes of us finding this gem, a van pulled up and all these kids with their colorful kayaks appeared. I was so glad I had my camera handy! However, a man who had been fishing there wasn't happy and left in huff.

The Boys

2009-05-22T21:40:00.001-07:00

Time again for Camera Critters! I say that like I've played along for ages. I've commented on participants I knew is all I've ever done in the past. I'm changing that and will start sharing some of my own camera critters.

On the left is my daughters cat, Hunter who is the old man of the two. He's rather anti-social. He will allow you to pet him when HE desires the attention and not a moment sooner. Otherwise, leave him alone on his perch by the living room window.

On the right is my rescued baby, Jett. He could fit in the palm of my hand when we found him last 4th of July weekend in the street. He's one who NEEDS (demands) lots of attention and love. I'm sure it has NOTHING to do with me holding him ALL the time when he was such a wee one.

It's been told that when I was back in the DC area for 3 weeks my baby would sit and cry by my desk chair. He missed his human mama!

BTW, Hunter lives up to his name and brings home several treats for my daughter. Mice being his favorite treat to present his princess. Jett lives up to his name by jetting around under your feet leaving you to crash land on your bum.

My husband said if we ever get another cat, he wants to name it "recliner" in hopes that it would just lounge around.

Click here to check out the other Camera Critters.

Approach with Caution!

2009-05-21T02:24:00.001-07:00

It appears there has been a Bridezilla sighting in the area.

Those who have followed me from the AOL journals and my now recently deleted blog, know I fell into wedding photography about 5-6 years ago. Let me say, it's been a fun ride!

One of our brides assured me there would be plenty of signs indicating how to get to their private wedding location. This was one of the signs leading us to the event. You just gotta love a bride with a sense of humor.

*** Thanks to Martha for suggesting a new site, I've added this photo to the Thematic Photographic #50 photo theme of 'signs'.

Unfortunately I can't get to that particular blog from my computer, I had to use my daughter's laptop to view it and she got rather testy that I was taking time to view other signs. I will certainly visit your signs as there some fantastic ones out there!

Red Hot ...

2009-05-20T11:41:00.001-07:00

... carnival of color and flavor.

Martha recently started a weekly photo theme called Color Carnival, it's now on the second week and I had said the first week that it sounded like fun and I'd participate. Okay, so I'm a little slow in getting started!

This photo was taken at Pike Place Market in Seattle and there is ALWAYS an abundance of color at the market with bright fragrant flowers, fresh testy vegetables and keep walking you will find beautiful handmade jewelry and art work.

I simply couldn't resist the red, green and yellow peppers all hanging around on a sunny day waiting for their photo to appear in my little blog. :-)

Please take a moment to check out the other colorful photos by clicking here: Color Carnival. And if you have a camera, what are you waiting for? Join the fun!

Northwest Waterfall

2009-05-19T22:35:00.001-07:00

My husband and I enjoy taking road trips in search of waterfalls here in the beautiful Northwest when we get that rare opportunity.

Unfortunately I didn't document what waterfall this was and my notes only stated road trip. ::sigh:: Not helpful at all! It could be anywhere near or around MT. Rainier, the Gifford Pinchot National Forest area OR one of the many waterfalls in the Columbia Gorge area.

Anyway, this is my first time to participate in the Watery Wednesday photo theme I look forward to participating many more times and getting to know the others who love photography.

Red Door

2009-05-18T21:22:00.001-07:00

Recently I closed my regular chatty blog and decided the only thing I'd share are my photographs. I'm having fun participating and finding all the photo meme's that I've seen in the past and never made time for - what a shame!

This photo is for the Ruby Tuesday photo meme, you can check other participants here: Ruby Tuesday

While I was visiting my son in MD, I took off and walked around Annapolis with my camera. I loved all the flowers on the doors and window sills. So cheerful.

Mellow Tookie

2009-05-18T00:03:00.001-07:00

This is our Cockatiel, Tookie Bird. He's a pretty mellow and yellow guy who will wolf whistle even when you look and feel your worst. His other speciality is whistling "Here comes the Bride".

Click here to play along! Mellow Yellow