The House Of Tolson

More Random Thoughts..

2010-07-05T23:43:00.000-07:00

- It is July here in sunny San Diego. And thus far, we have had quite the mild weather. The Lord is to be praised. Especially since our a/c is currently broken, waiting on the delivery of a new motor. I'm hopeful that the motor will arrive before the inevitable heat wave.
- I've been scaling down my facebook time as I find the more I'm on it, the more insecure I become. I am learning to cut out those things that amp up the insecurity in myself, and fb just happens to be one of them. Keeping it real, y'all.
- My heart is breaking for a vast amount of people in our lives whose marriages are ending. I'm just flabbergasted at the casual way Christ followers view marriage. I feel like I can say this because Todd and I have been through hell and back, and we have both wanted to end it desperately. We chose to stay and fight for our marriage, our life together, our kids. It is hard and ugly and painful, but there is redemption at the end, and it is worth the difficulty.
- It is 11:46 at night and there is a very loud songbird that doesn't know it is bedtime. Every night with the chirping and the singing and the whistling. This bird drives me a little nutty, but also makes me smile. It's like she doesn't know she is supposed to be doing something different, so she does her own thing anyway. And yes, she is a she. And her name is Aretha. ;)
- I love having good good friends over to watch silly shows. Community is a beautiful wonderful thing.
- I had a very tough phone call earlier today, and I'm not sure how I'm supposed to proceed. I care deeply about my relationships, so when there is strife anywhere in any of them, I am greatly affected. Lots of prayer. Lots of prayer.
- BJ's has the yummiest gluten free pizza I have had in a long while. Cheesy goodness for $8.95. Yum. And poo.. now I want some.
- And do you see what I just did?? I just saw it, and I am floored. I wrote an uncomfortable emotional thought, and the next thought was one of food. God is healing me from that form of comfort, but man, I have a long way to go.

If that was the reason for my writing this post late at night, then good. One of my prayers has been to have my eyes opened to my destructive ways. And honestly, I need some Jesus time, so I am signing off for now.

What has God been revealing to you lately??

You know you're a good Daddy when..

2010-06-20T06:32:00.001-07:00

..you love Jesus more than anything.

..you pick up the children from school, more than Mommy does.

..you watch boy movies with our boy-man.

..you read the Happy Hollister series to our children.

..you plan.save.work your fingers to the bone. so we can have a family vacay.

..you work 3 jobs so we can survive, and so Mommy can be a mom.

..you recognize when you make a mistake, and quickly remedy it.

..you are a responsible, hardworking, godly man thus teaching our son how to be one, and teaching our daughter how to recognize one.

..you tuck our children into bed most every night, complete with snuggles/wrestling/and prayers. And sips of water. And ice packs.

..you take excellent care of Mommy when she is sick (which is alot) and little eyes are watching that compassionate care-taking.

..you don't eat gluten, even though you could, because the rest of our family can't.

..you know that our son likes Root Beer, and our daughter likes Pink Lemonade.

Honestly, the list is nearly endless. These are the things that are freshest on my mind right now. I didn't get you a card, but thought a virtual declaration would be fitting.

Man alive... I love you. We have been.through.some.STUFF. But there is Redemption and it is amazing. And I wouldn't want another soul to be the father of our 2 squishes that we have been blessed with.

Until next year, when the list grows longer...

This day..

2010-06-02T19:44:00.000-07:00

I keep reading how fast everyone feels June has snuck upon us. It has. There is a quote I love that keeps running through my brain.. "The days are long, but the years are short."

Isn't that so so true?

I am sitting here, listening to the quiet hum of the air conditioner. My desk is a mess. There is a book on the dangers of MSG I have yet to crack open. There are papers scattered about. My daughter left her tiny white bowl here instead of placing in the sink. She is easily distracted.. much like her mamma. The bowl has little dots of blue, red, and yellow from her handful of m&m's she was blessed with for dessert.

Sidenote... I'm a big proponent of little treats a couple of times a week. My children are happily satisfied with 20 dark chocolate chips, or the rare handful of m&m's. May it always, always be so. :)

I don't have a huge theme for this post. I was simply overwhelmed with much love for my sweet, ordinary, wonderful family. I have thoughts such as these all the time, and figured I should "pen" them lest I forget.

Thoughts like..

My pre-teen boy-man.. who is the most handsome thing I have seen. His heart is so tender.. I am already afraid of what I shall have to restrain myself from if some girl dare to break it. On the flip side, helping him not become a heartbreaker himself will be a worthy goal. Loving the fact that after a delish BBQ Chicken Salad dinner, he wanted to go play on the elliptical for 20 minutes. Loving even more that he still thinks it's playtime, and not mandatory.

My "8 year old going on 13" sassypants of a daughter, who also has a sweet tender little heart. I fear even more what I shall do to the boy who chooses to casually play with that fragile precious thing. Sometimes (read multiple times a day) her tenderness gets buried under a loud voiced tyrant.. Yay... ;) Jesus obviously knew I needed to pray more.. thus He blessed me with her. Oh what He has taught me. Love that she came home from school and put on one of her fancy dresses to get ready for a concert. She wrote her own song, put on her heels, and was too adorable for words. She is quite shy, so the fact that she feels comfortable enough to do that warms me.

My hubs, who is so stressed right now. Who melts me when he gets a certain tiny smile on his face. It's the smile that makes him look about 5, and I just want to hug his neck off when I see it. He is all man though, so he might not be too thrilled I feel that way... ;) Loving that he loves my super healthy chocolate pb banana smoothies and requests one nightly. (Recipe to follow)

Please don't mis-read. We here at the Tolson house have had more ups and downs in our 12+ years as a family unit that I would care to explain. In fact, we are in a down moment as I type. But, I am still choosing to be grateful for the great things. God's blessings can still be found, they are just harder to locate sometimes.

So, that is this day. Thanks for letting me share a little of it with you. :)

How was your day?

Chocolate PB Banana Smoothie

1 cup of Ice
1 cup of milk (we use rice milk)
2 tablespoons Organic Natural Peanut Butter
1-2 Ripe Bananas (depending on how banana-y you like it)
2 tablespoons Organic Dark Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
Dash of Stevia (optional)

That's it.. pop in a blender and blend until smooth. I came up with this as an alternative to the highly caloric Jamba Juice Chocolate PB Smoothie.

Feelings..

2010-05-08T23:55:00.000-07:00

Feelings are lame sometimes. I am such an emotional person, so I feel alot. Every minute of every day, I'm hyper aware of feelings.

Have I hurt someone's feelings?
Have they hurt mine?
How are my kiddos feeling?
I wonder what that sad person on a certain blog was feeling?

Feeling, feeling, feeling.

Why did God make us with such enormous capacity to feel. He doesn't just flippantly create things. There is always a purpose. So, I have been asking myself lately.. what is the purpose of feelings?

I feel overwhelmed, almost unbearably, when I feel deeply the love God has for me.

I feel heart broken to my very core when I hear a story of hurtful words said to one of my children.

I feel angry when I see a human being casually hurt another human being.

I feel desperate when I don't see any progress made in the area of my health.

The truth is.. our lives can be completely over-run by our feelings. Isn't that why the Bible talks about the heart being deceitful? We can't trust it.. it doesn't always tell the Truth. Knowing this.. it can almost drive me mad when I hear people say follow your heart. Really? Because, quite frankly, my heart is really untrustworthy when it comes to making wise decisions, and no.. I would not like to follow my heart. I would like to follow Jesus. And trust... that when my feelings are likely to suffocate me, there is power in leaning on His Truth, His Word. I can claim His Truth in any situation, instead of leaning into my own feelings. Lean into Him.

Oh, there is no doubt that it is hard. Maybe one of the most difficult things this emotional basket case of a woman has overcome. But by God's mighty hand, living in the midst of untruthful feelings is becoming a thing of the past. An old me. God is making a new me, and I could feel more joyful about that. :)

How about you? Thoughts?

Gluten Free 5 minute dinner..

2010-03-19T18:15:00.000-07:00

You know those days where you just don't have the stamina to cook dinner?? Which is mostly every day for me... haha. Well, tonight was one of them. My delighful daughter woke up at 1am with a bad headache and decided not to go back to sleep until about 5am.

Guess who woke up with a sleep deprived migraine??

That's right.. ME! :)

I think the weather must have had something to do with both of us getting ill, but all is well now, so I am going to stop complaining about it!!

If you know us, you will know that we have been gluten free for about a year and a half. It has been a challenge to find easy suppers that this tired/migrained/fibro-flared up momma can make. I praise the Good Lord for Trader Joes and that gf living has become quite mainstream. It makes it a bit easier. :)

So, imagine my delight at finding a gluten free, preservative free, nitrate free roast beef hash that isn't too expensive! The current price is $2.49 a package and I love that! I mean, I might have danced in the Trader Joe's aisle a bit over this one. It may even have been to a classic Beach Boys song, but one cannot be certain.

And I may have embarassed my children in the process, but really, isn't that my job as a mom??

So, when the migraine/fibro flare knocks at my door, and my sweet hubby is working (read.. I can't call him to go and get In N Out..) I love having a 5 minute, healthier than fast food meal at the ready.

Honestly, I flash fried the organic eggs, wilted the organic spinach and warmed up the hash, and it was on.

And my sweet son inhaled it and proclaimed me the best cook ever... Poor unaware lovie.. :)

Here's a link to the pic. Happy Eating!!

Shout out to Gluten Free Girl...

2010-03-04T10:26:00.001-08:00

Well, I sat down to write a post a few hours ago, and I am just now getting to it.

Forgive me blogspot.. I was enraptured by reading about other people and what they are doing today.

I love this time of year. My business side has usually slowed down considerably from the Christmas madness, and I can breathe, take photos when I want, nap, re-connect with friends, cook, read, just enjoy living. I mean, who wouldn't like this season??

One of the blogs I love to read is GlutenFreeGirl's site. When our family first went gluten free, hers was the first site to pop up in my searches. She is such a phenomenal writer that I spent a week devouring her blog from start to finish. And then, I went out and got her book. I'm not sure I would have made the transition as easily if it weren't for people like her.. willing to share their journeys, the ups and the downs.. so I could learn and grow too. Thanks Shauna!

I wish we still lived in WA, so I could go meet her. Maybe one day.

If you are gluten free, beginning, or seasoned.. take a moment to stop by her site. It is a veritable wealth of gf knowledge freely shared. :)

Mean Girls..

2010-01-26T19:01:00.000-08:00

Let me paint you a picture.

7th grade. Chubby girl. First chair flute player. Thick straight frizzy hair with a wall of bangs that I made my mom perm every 6 weeks thankyouverymuch. I had such a poof on the top of my head.. girl, I was a mess. Needless to say, I was a walking target for meanies.

However, I was put into Weight Watchers at age 11, (oh, trust me.. I'm in therapy for that!) grew a few inches and over one summer became the skinny popular 8th grader. My bangs had grown out a bit, and I replaced flute with drama club. I even was class speaker at graduation.

Yep.. I peaked in the 8th grade. True story.

Sad sad sad true story.

High school was even sadder than 7th grade. My weight came back on with a venegance and I returned to the social suicide that was "Organized School Music Programs" only this time it was show choir. I mean, I could not get any hotter my people.

Debbie Downer moment, if I may.. I believe this is one of the moments when I realized that, in this twisted culture of ours, if skinny=good, then chubby=bad. Math was not my forte, but that was one simple equation I could figure out. Oh, how I desperately wish I could go back to that sweet little 15 year old and tell her a few things.

Why the outpouring of emotions tonight on my unsuspecting blog?? Well, for one, I am in the full throes of pms. Yay! TMI?? Secondly, my sweet squishy 8 year old daughter is dealing with a mean girl of her own. And boy, I have never wanted to pick a fight with a mean girl more than I do right now, even if she is only 9.

The short of it.. this little girl has been harassing my little girl for almost 2 years, off and on. We have constantly tried to encourage our bubba to stand up for herself in hopes we can teach her some life lessons about how life is hard, Love is the answer.. blah blah blah.. and up until this point, it was mostly playground hierarchy.

However, when said mean girl gets an entire table of 2nd graders to make fun of my daughter over her lunch contents? And my daughter comes home telling me an entire table accused her of passing gas because she was eating a smelley hard boiled egg?? And she doesn't want to eat eggs ever again?? And mean girl told people at the table to smell my daughter's booty?? Umm.. Mamma Bear (and Papa Bear for that matter) are. on. it. On it!

I hate...HATE...that my lovebug has to suffer this inevitable? girlhood tragedy this young.

I implore you to tell your sweet things they are precious and loved and safe.

And that the God of the universe finds them beautiful and captivating.

And He is simply thrilled over them, and has been since the day He created them.

I am absolutely positive of this fact.. if every girl knew these things without a doubt, our world would change radically. I know my world would have been vastly different had I understood that a little earlier.

Please.. let's do our part to stop the meaness.

A recap..

2010-01-25T23:07:00.001-08:00

Oh my gravy.. I haven't been on here in a while. July 2009? What? I have been so busy with the business side of things, that I haven't had a moment to breathe and write a bit about the haps with our little family.

A few brief recaps..
* We went to Disneyland with the kiddos during their fall break and even stayed in the ohsoMickey-fied Disneyland Hotel. My sweet deprived children had never seen such decadence.. It wasn't that decadent.. they just haven't gotten out much. ;)

* The holidays were full of twinkle lights and hot cocoa, family time with some family drama thrown in. Add a huge car repair bill to the mix and it makes for interesting times.. But God provides, and we are blessed. That's all I have to say about that!

* Our sassy Miss H turned 8 years old last week. Coconut smoothies and Tortilla soup from Island's was her pick. I will dedicate a whole post to her day as soon as I get her 8 year old portraits done.

* I have been seeing a biocranial doctor to help with my migraines and fibro.. it seems to be working, so yay??!!

I need to get to bed, but wanted to fill in the details. I will be back soon!

He's 10..

2009-07-23T16:54:00.000-07:00

My son just turned 10 this month, which means I have been a parent for that long.

Wow..

I just had to pause for a moment to let that sink in.

My husband rocked his father's hat and planned a huge Halo Wars party, complete with a Training Mission, a "fill up your own bag" candy bar, and Dye Wars Battle.

Side Note.... Squirt Guns+White T-shirts+Many Bottles of Red and Blue food coloring+the wild abandon of 8 ten year old boys running amuck=Dye Wars.

I have never seen that many boys running around with that much food coloring on their person. Needless to say, though the parents were forewarned, they looked a little shocked at the deep blue and vibrant red hands their boys were sporting. :)

The sound of my sweet boy squealing like a girl (don't tell him I said that) and continuously hugging his dad was all the thanks I needed. T3 is one of the most kindhearted, loyal, faithful and sarcastic 10 year olds I have ever known. I say this every year, but I am so proud of him...and delight that God ordained him a Tolson and we get to spend a lifetime loving on that kid.

Fun was had by all.. especially my boy. He is certainly going to remember the time his daddy planned a great day for him.

Of course you have to see his 10 year old portrait...Happiest of Birthday's My 10 year old!

Love Birthdays..

San Diego photography presents a Move..

2009-06-08T17:44:00.000-07:00

Just to let all of you wonderful readers know.. I have switched over to a blogsite. So I will be making all of my business posts from that brand spanking new thang.. :) You can find it at...

www.sarahtolsonphotography.com

I will still be posting here about the Tolson House, as I do not scrapbook, and this will be my version of a memory keeper for my kiddos. :)

Thanks so much for your faithful readership.. Now go bookmark the other place!

San Diego photography presents Random Thought time..

2009-05-22T10:05:00.000-07:00

Some things I am not excited about...

- Chickenpox and Pinkeye and the Flu.... Basically the amazing ability that my children have of picking up every sickness that runs through our school.... T3 just got over pink eye and I was so thankful that we were able to prevent anyone else from getting it. However, my sweet daughter woke up this morning covered with little pink spots all over..

- Having to re-schedule photoshoots because of above sicknesses, or the migraines that have been ripping through my brain on a weekly basis...

- The completely confusing template I have been trying to work on... I am so overwhelmed by trying to figure it all out that I have sort of given it up for now. Truth be told, I have been taking care of sick kiddos so much that I haven't had time.... I really need to get to it yo! This is why I haven't been posting much...

- Girl drama that continues to go on... I am so desiring a community of women that has each other's backs instead of stabbing one another in that same area! Why do we do that to ourselves?? Safety and acceptance ladies!

And because I am so motivated to have the positives outweigh the negatives.. I will add a bunch of things I am excited about these days..

- Umm.. have you even tried the Gluten Free Valencia Orange Cake from Starby's?? For someone who hasn't purposely ingested gluten (the protein found in wheat) for over 6 months... it is a little slice of Orange.Scented.HEAVEN!! I die!

- Learning the Hoedown Throwdown in the parking lot last night with the small group I lead... I am a complete dork when it comes to dancing.. but it was fun and fab nonetheless! Come on.. you know you want to pop it, lock it, polka dot it!

- The wonderful client who sent me Starby's card! Kim... you rock.. and you know me so well! My favorite get away.. Cappucino in hand+browsing through the thousands of books=Perfection.

-Seasame Street... My 7 year old is sitting here enthralled. It is timeless, I must say. :-) Who wouldn't love Elmo and the Pipe Organ number of the day excitement!!! What number will it be??

- My new blogsite... it will be so fine! (Once I get it working the way I want..)

- Great photography friends who are so willing to help one another out.. That is community!

- A husband who continues to take care of.. well.. everything. He is a wonder and I don't know what I would without him..

- The new orange rugs I bought for my front bathroom.. I love them. But.. so does my cat! We fight about the ownership of said rugs alot!!

- A Palm Springs getaway with the hubster next week.. hopefully the pox will have abated so I can go... I'm thinking positive!!

There's my list. What's on yours??

Love polka dotting it..

San Diego photography presents Senior Portraits.. Downtown La Mesa..

2009-04-24T16:44:00.000-07:00

A super quick sneak peak of Miss K's senior headshots..

Our chai lattes were delish..

The weather was perfect...

K was adorable..

She rocked her heels and fab belted dress!..

We found some squirrels at Lake Murray..

We got some great shots..

A good day for sure. :)

Love Belted Dresses..

San Diego photography presents ohh.. the eyelashes..

2009-04-19T10:29:00.000-07:00

“I am entering this photo in the MCP Actions/Color Inc. Win a Gallery Wrap Canvas Photo Contest at http://mcpactions.com/blog. I certify that I took this photo and give both parties permission to use this photograph on their blogs/sites.”

Love my baby..

San Diego photography presents A little Rocker..

2009-04-14T17:17:00.000-07:00

Here's what you can create with a white sheet and some window light. :) It also helps if you have an extremely happy baby boy... which I did. This little dude didn't make a single sad face our entire session. He had his momma and I laughing so hard! :)

Be warned though.. these following pictures have made my sister want a baby. This is the sister that never wanted kiddos.. so I'm telling you, it is powerful stuff. ;)

Love baby beanies..

San Diego photography presents some BFF's...

2009-04-01T19:01:00.000-07:00

I loved the idea behind this shoot. Here are 3 best friends.. they have known each other for years.. 2 of them are sisters. One of the sisters is moving back East, and the other 2 are quite sad about it. :( Their idea... take some custom portraits together before the big move happens.

I thought it was a fabulous reason for a photoshoot, so I said yes. :)

Here's your sneak peek girls!

Don't you wish you had a great black and white of your friends laughing...

Work it..

My favorite of the day.. just because of what it represented and the meaning behind this shoot..

Love BFF's..

San Diego photography presents a dead computer...

2009-03-29T18:15:00.001-07:00

So.. I had to say goodbye to my computer... I am currently blogging from my hubby's laptop. I have lots of sessions to blog about but you will just have to wait until my sweet man gets my new computer up and running... So glad he knows what he is doing. :) I will be back in a few days...

Much love yo!!

Love Capable Husbands.

San Diego Photography presents Random Thoughts...

2009-03-14T16:51:00.000-07:00

- We just moved into a new condo.. I love the new-ness, but hate the process. I'm going a little mad not knowing where everything is...

- My daughter just brought me a $10 bill and said, "Here Mom. This is for you as thanks for all you do." I swear that girl can drive me to the brink of insanity with her attitude... but then reel me back in with her sweetness. Just today we were driving home from an errand, blasting some Taylor Swift, singing together, and I got teary-eyed sharing that moment with her.

- Can I just say how much I love a full size washer and dryer?? You don't even know how great it is to be able to wash more than 2 towels at a time. I am not kidding! Stackable washer/dryers are from the devil...

- My husband introduced me to the wonder/evil/insanity that is an El Aztec breakfast burrito. It is the size of a small baby.. No joke. In my defense, we share it, and I either scoop out the insides, or transfer it to a Gluten Free tortilla. (No wheat for me!) Thus, my arteries won't give out as fast as my husbands. I am not sure if this is good or bad.. :)

- I have a friend coming over for dinner in less than an hour, and I don't know where my cooking items are. So, I better go find them. Why.. because microwaved Chicken and Broccoli doesn't sound super great..

Love Sweet Moments..

San Diego Photography presents Senior Portraits in Ocean Beach...

2009-02-26T13:25:00.000-08:00

A few fun facts about this latest senior...

She loooooves Taylor Swift and got tickets to see her this spring..

She has the most beautiful smile... and didn't even have to wear braces. Umm..lucky!

She (and her lovely mom) informed me of the best burger place this side of forever named Hodads! I wasn't hungry, but told them repeatedly that I would be back with my husband because it looked delish... Must plan a date night soon!

She made my job super easy..

Here are just 3 for a little sneak peek. :) Don't you just love editing a great session!! I do. :)

Thanks Miss S... you rocked it fo sho!!

Love Senior Year..

San Diego Photography presents a good friend..

2009-02-18T22:19:00.000-08:00

Last week I had the privilege of meeting one of my sweet friends at Balboa Park for some family photos. This particular friend is from Washington and I met her a few years back when we lived up there. :)

She was preggers with Miss L when we met, and after Miss L graced us with her presence.. I could not pass up the opportunity to hold her every chance I got. :) We moved away over 2 years ago...so, you can imagine my delight at re-connecting with Miss L... now 3 and as cute as a button.

I'm not going to lie.. Her big brother was quite the charmer and he was thrilled that I let him use my camera to snap a few pictures of his momma and dad. :)

Click here under Clients to view your online gallery of pictures. :)

It was great to see you guys again! I hope I get to meet #3 very, very soon!!

Love good friends..

San Diego Photography presents a Bean Bag in a park..

2009-02-17T12:11:00.000-08:00

I just love my clients and you know why??? They all have the sweetest children that I get to love on every week. Getting a rash from lying on the grass to get the picture is so worth it. I am re-paid in full by every squish and snuggle I get. :)

I also want to point out that the latest and greatest locations aren't necessarily the be all and end all. I took a bean bag to a park and was able to capture these little munchkins personality without a problem.

Oh and great gift idea alert...This mom was given a gift certificate for her baby shower!!

Here are a few of the little squishes.... Hmmm delicious.

Tell me you aren't dying for a snuggle now!

Love snuggles..

San Diego Photography presents some more sistas..

2009-02-08T15:51:00.000-08:00

Just a few more faves as I finish up editing this session... These girls just seriously captivate me.. And you know what else??? There hearts are as sweet as their faces. I even bought them milk and cookies afterwards because I just had to.. I couldn't resist. :)

Love Sistas..

San Diego Photography presents The Stine sistas...

2009-02-05T16:57:00.000-08:00

I had a blast photographing these beauties. Miss K is involved in lots of theater activities and new headshots are always needed. :) Her beautiful sis Miss J is a senior so we decided to double it up. Aren't they the most photogenic girls you have ever seen??

I was embarassing myself every time I took a picture because I was just in awe of how they looked on my screen! ;)

Here are just a few sneak peeks while I'm finishing up the rest. :)

Can you say fierce??

Love Sistas..

San Diego Photography presents Random thought time...

2009-01-24T19:36:00.000-08:00

So, I haven't shared my random-ness in a while.. and I just know that you have been sitting there on your computer, biting your nails in anticipation of my next post. Thanks for waiting. ;)

- I think the Barefoot Contessa and her husband are the cutest thing since chubby puppies... She cooks for him.. he happily enjoys the offering. They stand so close to each other and she giggles... I bet they "cuddle" every night... ;)

- My daughter turned 7 this past week. Words cannot express the vast emotions I go through when I watch my children age. I will post about that soon...

- I shudder/cringe/die a little every time my son gleefully, and with wild abandon, shoots someone on Halo 3...

- I love this salad or any variation thereof.. and would eat it every day if I could afford the sashimi. It's expensive yo...

- My husband and I just finished this series and I am utterly and profoundly sad about it.. I feel lost not knowing if Rory and Logan ever got back together, or if Luke and Lorelai ended up married... *Sad sigh*

- I have never been so thrilled to get an email from Kaiser about test results... because I am anxiously, feverishly, hopefully awaiting a diagnosis of the pain that has been plaguing me for a few years...

- I have a deep desire to learn how to play the guitar and my rockstar husband who has played for over 20 years will not teach me... So I am probably going to figure out how to do it myself...

- This site is SO.MUCH.FUN... My husband should be very glad I am not the spender in the family...

Post some random things about you in the comments! I love learning new things about people...

Love unplanned..

San Diego photography presents A girl turning 7...

2009-01-21T19:37:00.000-08:00

If you have read any of my blog... You must have heard me moan and complain a time or two about the bittersweet-ness of birthdays... I love the celebration of the day.. I love baking favorite goodies and taking the birthday person out for a special dinner. But, my kiddos getting a year older.. that I could do without. Each year marks another milestone closer to when those little babies of mine fly the coop... Dang! I wish I could freeze time.

But I can't.. so I will just tell you that I love this little girl of mine so much it hurts. She turned 7 and is full of joy, sass, and attitude. It is a daily effort to teach her how to say what she needs nicely..

Also you need to know that she has the softest cheeks I have ever felt, and I caress them every single night.

Happy Birthday baby...

A shot of the two my my squishes...

Love hurts..

San Diego Photography presents A Little Italy Session...

2009-01-18T18:58:00.000-08:00

I had the absolute pleasure of taking this family's pictures back in December. We all went to college together and it was so fun to get re-connected with old friends... It didn't hurt that A and J's kiddos were just the sweetest little peaches! They made my job super easy! J works here.. so if you live near there.. Check it out. :)

Be still my heart... Isn't she precious??? She said she wanted to go home with me..And I would have taken her in a heartbeat..

Look at this little munchkin face..

She's a middle child. I sooo get her.

Seriously.. I cannot be held responsible if by accident, I pick this kiddo up and squish her sweet little cheekies...

Thanks guys for letting me capture you and your sweet girlies...

J.. I want a tour soon. ;)

Love together..

San Diego Photography presents A belated Christmas Session..

2009-01-16T10:40:00.001-08:00

So this little one had nothing but serious faces for me. Her mamma and I were singing, and dancing and playing the tamborine to no avail. I was even down on the floor with her on my sprained knee, and she had no sympathy for me... I caught one smile at the end, but Little Miss wasn't cool with me that day! :) I still loved how the pictures turned out, and so did her mamma...

Here's a collage of favorites. And Y, thanks for the homemade enchiladas girl.. Delightful!!

Love sweet cheeks..

San Diego Photography Presents Portland Part 1

2009-01-02T19:49:00.000-08:00

I had such fun on my little getaway a few weeks ago, and with the busy-ness of the holidays, I haven't been able to post these!

So here are a few from our first full day there. :)

My beautiful sis and bff with her cute beanie!

Where we had a beautiful luncheon...

Pumpkin Risotto with Fried Sage... I die!

French Onion Soup with about a mile of cheese on it.. (it was my sister's)

The best dessert ever...

All of us after lunch.. And I didn't take the picture, so don't blame me for the blurriness!!

And finally.. some really cool textures and scenery that I couldn't resist taking a few snaps of..

>

Stay tuned for more Portland Wedding pics.... :)

Love family..

San Diego Photography presents A few things...

2009-01-01T23:15:00.000-08:00

2008 taught me that...

God knows, even when I do not.

Giving is awesome.

Running away from something I am scared of is stupid. (unless it's a tiger or predatory animal.. and then, I think, running is ok.)

A journey back to health isn't immediate.

My children will continue to grow up whether I like it or not.

I am loved just as I am.

A year (of growth, struggle, success, failure, hurts, healing) can make a big difference.

I don't do resolutions. If I see one more New Year's diet on a magazine , I might just scream. Or maybe just rip the cover off of the front. :)

But I do go into the beginning of every year with fresh hope and a new perspective.
I have hope that I can love better, live with more intention, laugh louder (that might not be possible) I am excited to see what 2009 might bring...

What do you hope for this year?

Love people..

San Diego Photography presents The Winners!

2008-12-24T18:52:00.000-08:00

I had a very difficult time choosing which nominated family will get the free photo session.. so I made an executive decision to pick the top three. It is way easier that way. :)

The winners of a free session are....

The Orona Family

The family Vicki G. nominated (I didn't get their names...)

Alan and Jerrilynn Sweat

If you nominated these wonderful people, I need you to email me with a contact email address for the family. I will be back in the office January 10th and we can schedule the sessions at that time. :)

For now, please visit Here to view my family's virtual Christmas card! Merry Christmas.

Love giving..

San Diego Photography presents A few reminders....

2008-12-10T23:51:00.000-08:00

1. I will be out of the office until Monday, the 15th. If you need to get a hold of me before then, please email me at tolsonhouse4@hotmail.com

2. Please keep sending in your deserving nominees. I have loved reading the different stories, and will have a hard time making a choice!!

3. You all rock.. Have a great rest of the week!

San Diego Photography presents When our family had nothing....

2008-12-08T17:40:00.000-08:00

When we didn't have grocery money, people gave it...

When we didn't know how we would buy our kiddos a gift or 2 for Christmas, people gave it...

When we weren't sure we could pay our rent, people gave it...

And the Tolson family doesn't ever want to stop giving... ever! So, I am asking for you to nominate a deserving family for an absolutely free Portrait session with me. Because my Christmas portrait season is nearly over, this will be done in January. It must be someone who doesn't have the ability to use my services at this time, and you can't nominate yourself. Shoot me an email and tell me their story.. hurry though.. the nominee will be chosen on Christmas Day! :) (I have been known to give the nominating party a free session as well.. hint, hint...)

Here are a few more people who are listening to the true meaning of the season and giving to those who are in need....

She gave a goat...

They are donating cans galore for every comment they receive... Go!

So.. do you know a family who has nothing, and is in need. I am here willing to help them catch a memory..Please email me at contactme@sarahtolsonphotography.com and tell me about them. :)

People...Give it!

Love Blessing..

San Diego photography presents A renewed tradition...

2008-12-07T12:43:00.000-08:00

Last year was a weird holiday season for us. We were unemployed, had nary a penny to buy things for our kiddos, and my husband was not with us for Christmas time. His dear grandma was in her final days and he went out to be with that side of the family for Christmas. I wanted to go, but we didn't want to leave our kiddos without at least one of us. My husband and I are excited to put that sad, but necessary part of our lives to rest and renew our annual Christmas traditions. :)

So you can imagine our gratefulness at being able to put a tree up... we didn't even get one last year.... And we blasted Pandora Swinging Holiday Mix, made some hot cocoa and tea, and just enjoyed being together. The kiddos did a great job decorating our little tree and we just feel so blessed. :)

I know life is hard! Trust me.. our family has been through a heck of a lot in 11 years, but I hope that you will create your own traditions. Listen to music, sip on some peppermint tea, don't spend more than you make, live, laugh, love, and make this season special for your family.

Love Restoration..

San Diego Photography presents WindandSea at high tide...

2008-12-05T09:00:00.000-08:00

I am not an expert in beach photography (She is!!) and I have never claimed to be... but living in San Diego with gorgeous weather makes clients long for photos on the beach. I am happy to oblige. :) But I have had to learn a few things along the way too.

One thing I was taught was to always check the tide charts. Yep.. I agree.. that is a good idea. Because if you don't check them, or even maybe check them and ignore them (like I did) you will get to the beach, and there won't be much of it. And if you have decided to take portraits on a sunny day at the beach... umm... a million people will have decided to enjoy that sun with you.. Dangit!

It is only with creative angling and photoshop that I was able to take some of these pics for my dear friend the other week. Don't be like me!! Use the almighty tide chart.... ;)

Just a few of my faves of the day...

Love Rules..

Advent Conspiracy

2008-12-04T08:07:00.001-08:00

I saw this video last night, and thought it was well put together, and really summed up the way I feel about the Christmas Season. Take 2 minutes to watch it, and then go here and do it !! :)

San Diego Photography presents Our Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T09:24:00.000-08:00

My sweet momma wasn't feeling well, so I took over the cooking duties.. at 2 separate houses with 2 separate turkeys... I was a busy girl. Here are my favorite snaps from the day...

After snapping about 20 with her hands in front of her face.. I finally got this.

What is all this about?? Keeping it real...

I am not particularly fond of Thanksgiving food.. but since I cooked it all.. I wanted to document the occasion!

My Dad... He was in the middle of telling us what he was thankful for and just looked so handsome. :)

Gloria (soon to be new family member), Me, and my Momma. :)

Thanks for letting me share our day with you! I hope your holiday was amazing. :)

Love Family..

Hopelessly behind....

2008-11-26T19:08:00.000-08:00

This is every portrait photographers craziest season. Everyone wants family pictures for the holidays.. and I am more than happy to oblige. But that means my blog has been sadly neglected.. I am sorry dear blog. I will try to do better! :)

So, a friend, of a friend, of a friend, of a friend called me to have their Christmas pictures taken. I love how that works. :) I met this beautiful family out at Balboa Park, on what was, I think, the busiest day they have ever had.

For one, it was a beautiful Sunday with temps in the high 70's, so all the dogwalkers, baby strollers, mimes, didgeridoo players (oh,you don't know what that is... here) tarot card readers, et al.. were out in full force. Secondly, it was a day for thousands of women to don on their pink and walk for Breast Cancer.. a noble cause for sure... but it makes it hard to find a parking space. :)

I digress...

So, the B family showed up ready to go, and I am not kidding you I didn't have to pose these girlies one bit. They had curls in place and smiles in tact, and boy I loved this session!! Here are just a few to tide you over on the holiday!

Happy Thanksgiving... Mrs. B.. your email will be in your inbox soon! :)

Love Sweetness..

San Diego Photography presents A tried and true pose...

2008-11-17T21:03:00.001-08:00

I have so many Christmas sessions to blog, but I am still editing away... I wanted to give you a hint at some pictures to come.

This is one of my favorite poses for a mom and baby. Some may say it is overdone, but my clients are mothers (mostly) and every mother I have ever met would die to have a picture like this to look back on. Me included. :)

Love Babies..

What they were...

2008-11-06T09:52:00.000-08:00

Yes, I am late to the party.. but that is not new. This is really posted so grandmas and aunties can take a look at my bubbas decked out in Halloween glory. :)

My Ninja and my Bumblebee....

Love Family..

San Diego Photography presents No longer awaiting Nathan... :)

2008-11-01T19:02:00.000-07:00

Look who I got to meet!! It's Nathan. Remember when we were all awaiting his arrival. :)

I had such fun holding this sleeping, warm, soft little bub. When our session was done.. I didn't want to leave. And I said so too.. But then I remembered how I used to walk around in a daze, waiting for the little person to finally go to sleep.

And then I would walk ever so carefully into the room to place them in their crib.

And then I would hold my breath...because as every young mom knows, one wrong breath can lead to the destruction of the napping procedure..

And then I would pray as I have never prayed before..."Please let them sleep so I can shower, and sleep for a minute, and brush my teeth, and maybe have a meal... Please!" But really, even if I got one of those things, I considered naptime a sucess.

And then I would back out of their room, still walking as quietly as I could...

And then as soon as I shut the door, the angels would begin to sing a sweet beautiful sound like none other (in the baby monitor, of course)... the peaceful, slumbering breath of your tiny one.

So, I remembered those wonderful feelings, and scurried out of there so Jess could have a little nap. But, can you blame me for not wanting to leave??

I mean really...

Love Newness..

Overheard Conversations..

2008-10-26T10:58:00.000-07:00

My two children.. in the kitchen...planning to sell some tea to our neighbors.

"Brother, you have to put more agave in the tea so people will buy it..
Can I stir it??"

"Hannah, I am good at stirring it."

"Oh yeah, wait, you're the business dude."

"I hope we can make 5 dollars a day, and Mom, you get 25% for being such a good mom."

"Brother, don't drink all the tea because it is for our customers."

"This is the goodest tea ever."

So, my heart was melted, but then I looked at my kitchen, and it is destroyed. I need some prayer so I don't ruin their business venture with my yelling. :)

I am all about being real...

Sneak Peak... Balboa Park Family Session..

2008-10-22T14:49:00.001-07:00

A tiny glimpse into my latest family session.. more to come later tonight! :)

This was one good looking family!!

Love Siblings..

A Heritage Park Wedding...

2008-10-20T13:48:00.000-07:00

You might remember this beautiful couple from their engagement session back in April. They got married last week at Heritage Park, and the day couldn't have been more perfect. Olivia called me on Monday and we both were concerned that her entirely outside wedding would be a soggy mess, according to the weather prediction. We needn't have worried. The sun was brightly shining the entire day... Lucky us!!

Her colors were vibrant green, black and white. She spent a gazillion hours making sure everything would be just as she planned. During pictures, Olivia kept telling Joe how perfect everything was turning out... I think she was pleased. :)

Their reception was at the gorgeous Old Venice Restaurant in Point Loma, and my twinkle light obsession was soothed that night... They were everywhere.

Olivia and Joe.. thanks for letting me in on a piece of your history. Your wedding was the stuff of dreams and I hope this helps that memory live on. :)

Please visit here for a slideshow of my faves from your day!!

Just a reminder....

2008-10-18T09:30:00.000-07:00

2 things..

#1 - For all my clients who recieved my annual Christmas Package Sale offer, you have until November 1st to book your session. :) By the way, your session can take place anytime in November, but it needs to be on the books by the 1st. I only have a handful of slots left, so please email me so I can fit you in.

And, if you want to know what I am referring to.. shoot me an email and I might include you!!

#2 - Sarah Tolson Photography will be closing for the holidays as of December 10th, and will not re-open until January 2nd. I will be sipping on Pumpkin Spice lattes.. thinking of you..

The point... don't wait to email me. :)

Sneak Peak from the Windansea in La Jolla

2008-10-17T22:27:00.000-07:00

Well.. I am woefully behind on my posting. I still have August sessions yet to blog, and I will be getting around to it!! I promise. :)

Stay tuned for...
Apple picking...
An awesome Balboa Park family sesh...
A Heritage Park wedding....
My daughter's first pair of glasses...
And random family sessions around San Diego...

But for now, I give you this.

Gasp... Senior pictures with a boy!!

2008-10-06T16:17:00.001-07:00

It can be done.. there are some guys out there who want their senior pictures taken! :)

Meet Luke...

See his rad pictures...

Taken at Escondido City Hall.. (Great location!!)

My absolute fave of the day!!

The session that broke my heart...

2008-10-04T22:43:00.000-07:00

I had a Make-A-Wish photoshoot for a girl name Sydney...

Sydney wore sparkly pink lip gloss and a rad hat....

Sydney is a 10 year old darling with an inoperable brain tumor...

I was referred by a friend to take their family pictures...

Tasha, the mom, told me family pictures at the beach was her Make-a-Wish....

I was so honored to be able to help them...

Here are a few of their pics....

Please visit the Ives' site to read about their story.

Love Forever..

And so.. I turned 32.

2008-09-29T18:26:00.000-07:00

Last week, I celebrated my birthday, and I had such a great day! The Friday before my wonderful man surprised me with an Iphone. I had wanted one, but was not thinking I would get it for a while. I heart my phone!! It is amazing. :) Thanks love!

On the day of my birth, I went out to sushi (my absolute fave.. and still raw!)with 2 of my sisters, 2 of my nephews, and my Momma and Dad. Just so you know.. that isn't even half of my family.

I was also checking out this well recommended sushi place for a client meeting I have coming up..

We had the best time.. laughing at nothing.. harmonizing to the birthday song.. and eating some good food. They even gave us our desserts for free.. Isn't that too cool?? My parents weren't brave enough to try the sushi, but they did fill up on tempura and teriyaki. :) Here are just the girls (and we are missing a sister!!)

Wait.. Fried Ice Cream and Banana's Foster isn't raw!!?? WHAT!!... It has bananas....

Yeah.. I didn't stick to my raw plan that day. ;)

This place had the coolest walls.. I just felt like showing you all. :) I wonder if Todd would let me put this in our bedroom.. Can't you just see this guy over our bed.. protecting us while we sleep....

No?

I also had the absolute delight of not having to cook (or un-cook for me) a single meal that day!

Sidenote time... I love to cook, but when you prepare meals for 2-4 people on a daily basis, 3 times a day, for over 10 years.. It gets a little tedious. :)

Umm.. Can I get a witness??

Anyone???

Thanks to all who made my birthday such a special day. I mean it when I say that I felt very loved and celebrated. :) Big hugs to you all!!

And the rest of the Balboa Park wedding...

2008-09-20T09:45:00.000-07:00

Why are most of these in black and white.. Allow me to share a few reasons with you..

1. I don't like to use a lot of actions, but sometimes a picture really works well with certain ones... Old School Fast from TRA was one of my faves for this wedding. Maybe it was the style of dress the bride was wearing, or the outside atmosphere.. It doesn't work with every picture, but it did with this one!

2. I was second shooting, so if I didn't want to process these in color.. I didn't have to. I love the freedom of being the second shooter!

3. We were outside, in harsh sunlight, and that is difficult for me (Thanks for letting me be honest with ya!) Old School toned down some of the shots I loved, but were too bright. :)And the other black and white conversion I ran just made some of these shots pop!

So now.. take a peek and let me know what you think!!

Aha... a picture in color...

The bridesmaids.. I set this up doing headshots of all of them, and then created a collage in Photoshop. :)

My absolute favorite! I love Father Daughter moments...

Another color detail...

The Message Board: My Dress

2008-09-09T20:49:00.001-07:00

I found this on a forum today, and just wanted to share... It made me chuckle. :)

Sneak Peak..Wedding at Redwood Circle in Balboa Park

2008-09-08T22:59:00.000-07:00

Just one to tease you with... I am editing away, and will put up my faves very soon! :) Stay tuned.

Nathan is still not here... :)

2008-09-03T10:36:00.000-07:00

And a few more of my faves from the maternity session...

Just loved this one.. I told her that it would be one of the last times she would be able to get pretty without a little ankle biter to help! :)

My favorite. I love not having a studio and being able to make pictures wherever I go. This was shot in front of her sliding window, with her back to the wall. I wanted the light to be on her belly, and the rest of the picture darkened. Of course, Yin/Yang helped a little too! :)

Can't wait to babysit!! :)

Apple Picking in August.. Not for the faint of heart..

2008-09-01T14:46:00.000-07:00

So, back in August, I had a brilliant idea. I thought it would be the perfect time to pick apples because no one would be there. I was absolutely right!! But, there is a reason why people don't pick apples in August.... The 100 degree temperature might be one of them!!

We had fun though and I just wanted to share a few memories from our day. :)

We went here... If you see a man who reminds you of William Wallace..don't shout "Freedom" really loud in his ear... He might not like it. And, he might not get it, since his name is Patrick. ;) That and he lives in a teepee...with no t.v.

My son and his friend Trinity... Her mom and I hope they will get married...

Trin making some fresh pressed apple cider...Umm.. delish!

The whole gang.. and no, there isn't a red color cast.. it really was that hot...

The pose I always get from her..

Where we went afterwards to cool off, although after we all drank a jug of fresh pressed apple cider....Pie and Ice Cream may have not been the best idea... Let's just say 1 long car ride home + 4 tummy aches = lots o'prayer that we make it home without... you know...

One happy little baby...

As we were leaving.. come on.. you know I had to! :)

Awaiting Nathan's arrival....

2008-08-23T14:57:00.000-07:00

I have known Jessica for a long time. She was in high school when I first met her, and I have watched her grow into a beautiful woman and now she has a sweet baby on the way. When I had the opportunity to take her maternity pictures, I jumped at the chance. We spent the first 30 minutes just catching up on life, looking at the nursey and all the cute baby boy clothes(and yes, I immediately wanted another baby boy), and making sure I could come over and babysit!!

Here is just a sneak peek. Stay tuned for the rest tomorrow and a Balboa Park wedding post soon to follow!

You're a beautiful girl.. and I can't wait to meet your little man!!

And the winner is...

2008-08-19T18:50:00.001-07:00

Christina!!!

The battle was a hard one to win apparently.. even people who don't comment on my blog made an appearance. Thank you for all of your effort, and please stay tuned as I love to give away free gift cards frequently. :)

Extra cool points if you know the whole song or if you watch the whole intro... we will be friends for life!!

Ahhh.. the memories....

2008-08-18T14:12:00.001-07:00

Though there are 6 of us Scharfenberg children, the memories I have of watching t.v. growing up only include 2 of them. This is because my older siblings were either married, engaged,or heading off to college while I was still in elementary school. So, in some ways I feel like a middle child of 3, since the siblings left at home consisted of my brother Andrew (3 years older), and my sister Amy (2 1/2 years younger).

Even more distressing to me was that Amy was a born tomboy.. do you know what that meant to me.. the girliest girl ever?? It meant that Amy and Andrew often combined their votes 2 to 1 in favor of boy shows like Air Wolf, Knight Rider, and... the A-Team. Now, I made the best of it, by falling in love with the cutest boy on the show, and could watch and dream about marrying the handsome bad-boy ladies man (Face), or the lone crimefighter Michael Knight and off we would drive into the sunset with Kit.

And because we all need a little memory refresher.. I leave you with this theme song.

And.... a $10 Starbucks card will be shipped to the first person who can tell me what show I wanted to watch, but was cruelly out-voted on.

(P.S. Family members are not allowed to comment!!!)

Sorry...

2008-08-15T08:58:00.001-07:00

Dear blog... I sure do love you, and I hope you aren't mad at me for not posting in almost 2 weeks. My lovely illnesses that I deal with on a daily basis (Migraines, and CFS to name a few) have prevented me from attending to you. I hope you will forgive me!!

I have been wanting to meet Mr. C and Little Miss K for a looong time. Tara received a photo session as a shower gift (GOOD GIFT IDEA ALERT!!) a few months back, and we had a hard time scheduling her session... I was out of town the whole month of June.. she moved into a new house in July.. you know, life stuff. :) I so wanted to give her sweet bubbas a squish.. and they let me for about 30 seconds.

Little Miss did not have much love for me though, and she cried this sad heart-breaking cry everytime the camera came her way. I was a bit crushed that my love for her was not returned, but after a short nap on the grass, she warmed up... a little bit. :) Mr. C was a great sport, especially after the standard lollipop-for-a-great-job was offered.

Thanks for letting me capture these precious souls for a little while. I have hope that Miss K will love me one day.

A senior sneak peek with a twist...

2008-08-02T16:34:00.000-07:00

I had the absolute pleasure of photographing two seniors at the same time... why... because they are twins, and it was such fun! I couldn't stop laughing at the antics of these two.

We went to Mission Trails to find some good backgrounds, and after about an hour.. we were all done. Too many bugs, too hot, and too many Caution:Snake signs. :)I was in dire need of a Venti Iced Tea, so off to Starbucks we went.

Carrie and Luke.. I had a blast, and your pics turned out great. Here's a few to share for now, and I will post the rest when I get back into town. :)

2008-07-31T10:34:00.000-07:00

I go to bed late, and get up early, and it affects me the rest of the day. A Soy Carmel Macchiato helps a little, but then my energy flags and I wish I could go back to bed....

But not her... not my highly engertic 6 year old. She had to get up early today too.. and she did not have the aid of a sugary coffee drink to lift away the tiredness. But when we arrived home at 8:30am.. she was already planning on making a recipe and having a tea party, unbeknownst to me.

This girl I love knows that she must ask permission to use anything in the kitchen. This rule was set in place after this same girl at the age of 4 mixed a wonderful concoction of dark chocolate syrup, expensive Italian tomato paste, and expensive French mustard into my carpet.

No...Don't say that.. I wasn't mad at all... Nope.. nary a raised voice left these lips. I was totally in control of my emotions.

So, she knows this rule and trys to abide by it, but all the condiments in my fridge must call her name on a daily basis, because I sometimes come out to the kitchen and find a mixture of red chili paste and soy sauce and mayo and lemon juice and peanut butter... And no, she never eats it..she just wants to mix it up and see what happens.

Today she asked if she could make tea and serve strawberry jam sandwiches to her "friends". I agreed, but should have known she would try to sneak something else in... When I went to light the candles I found expensive sliced Bing Cherries mixed with the jam.

Why does she always have to use the expensive stuff??? I snapped a few pictures of her little party because I do love her and her quirkiness, but if you ever come by and see my lack of condiment supply.. you will know why!

A fun 1st birthday session..

2008-07-25T16:05:00.000-07:00

Princess M was turning the Big 1 that day. She was in a very comtemplative mood, and was wondering what all the fuss was about. Her mamma had dressed her in a darling flowered top and pink pants, but try as I may... she would not smile for me. Even when she got a hold of the delicious chocolate cupcakes... nary a smile was upon her face.

Maybe she realized that growing older wasn't all it is cracked up to be...

Maybe she wasn't pleased with her gifts...

Maybe she didn't like some weird lady sticking a big black camera in her face...

Whatever it was, I captured her mood that day. That is what I do. Her serious little face is so precious!

She played with the frosting for about 10 minutes before realizing she could acutally eat it.

Yay.. my patience paid off. She finally took a bite!!

A beautiful Mommy and Me picture...

I look at this picture and wonder.. what are those serious eyes thinking??

Happy Birthday little one. Thanks for letting take some pictures of you. :)

And finally.. the rest of them..

2008-07-19T19:39:00.000-07:00

I have been giving you sneak peeks all week at my latest senior session. J was such a cutie and really had lots o' fun posing. She was absolutely a natural...

We went over to a country club, and ran around using their gorgeous God-made backdrops. :) We were very polite of course and said hi to all of the golfers, who wondered why I was laying down in the dirt, or why J was fighting with the trees. :) Our effort paid off, and I think this was one of my favorite sessions to date!

In the words of Christian from Project Runway (um.. yeah.. I watch it!) "Fierceness!"

Brilliant Color..

2008-07-16T21:41:00.000-07:00

Another sneak-y peek-y at my senior session. I am having such fun editing these! :)

One Senior..

2008-07-14T10:59:00.000-07:00

A sneak peek at a gorgeous senior I photographed Saturday. I love when I get home and have lots of pictures to work with!!

Stay tuned.. more to come!

Shades of Gray....

2008-07-11T15:42:00.000-07:00

A recent session... You know me! I love black and white. :) These expressions on his face just kill me!!

Ohh.. my son turned 9 last week...

2008-07-08T20:36:00.000-07:00

Well.. it keeps happening. Every stinkin' year, the kids get another year older. I try as much as I can, to prevent their birthday from happening.. but I am not able. :( It ticks me off greatly.... I just don't like the loud time clock that reminds me, as soon as I shut my eyes for a second, my child will be heading off to college...

But see.. here's the weirdness... I actually love celebrating the actual day my child came into this world. Since I was able to talk, I have wanted to be a mom, so it is no surprise to me that I love making my kiddos favorite cake, and picking out the perfect present for them, and making their favorite breakfast, and just making the day all about them...

And they get all this for the low price of $19.99!!!!

Sorry.. I got carried away when I re-read that last paragragh. It sounded a bit like an infomercial, so I just went with it....

We made sure the day was special for him... Here's the rundown of what he requested...
Breakfast - Donuts (Yay.. I didn't have to cook)
Present - Money for gameboy games (Yay.. I didn't have to think)
Cake - Chocolate with Chocolate Frosting (Yay.. oh wait.. I actually had to work on this one.. FYI, I made a Dark Chocolate Buttermilk Cake with a layer of Peanut Butter Frosting followed by a layer of Chocolate Ganache courtesy of Food and Wine magazine.. I know.. I went a little crazy... What's new my people!)
Dinner - American Food with family.. so we picked Red Robin as it was halfway between here and where most of my family lives... (and again Yay.. I didn't have to cook!!)

Here are a few pictures to commerate the day.

My handsome men...

My brother and beautiful sis-in-law... who were laughing at the silly birthday card, which made them blurry. :)

Trust me... it was that good!

And lastly..sniff, sniff.. my sweet bubba's birthday portrait, complete with a Fauxhawk. I love it!! He..well, not so much.. but there is a bright, shiny, silver lining to this post...

..He still listens to me when I style his hair.

For now.

Oh.. and lastly.. he requested some more laser tag with Daddy and friends, so he still has that to look forward too. He is a lucky dude.. and so are we. We love you buddy!!

A new project..

2008-07-05T10:26:00.000-07:00

So, I have lots of pictures to post from last week, as it was my son's 9th birthday.. but I will get to that later.

For a few months now, I have been collecting and sorting through images to make a huge photo wall in my living room, and it has been hard. I have taken a lot of pictures, but not very many are making it into my folder. The pictures don't have to be recent, but they do need to speak of our family, so that when people see the entire wall.. they get the message. :) I will be posting lots of contenders for my wall in the next few weeks... Feel free to tell me if you think they shouldn't make the wall!

If you know me (and my daughter) we love to snuggle. If we are having a bad day, you might find us in my bed, under the covers, snuggling together. It makes everything better! And I truly cherish the ability to do that with my bubba.

So, my point is that I have this picture in my head of Hannah's face while we are snuggling... Her eyes are usually closed, so all I see is looong dark eyelashes. And this girl has the most kissable cheeks you have ever seen!! And, I don't know if this makes me a bad photographer (ahhhh!!) but I haven't been able to capture that moment to my liking.. mostly because I am not about to whip out the camera when we are snuggle bugs.. I have to re-create it later.

Apparently though.. I did... almost 3 years ago... I found this picture this morning....

No words needed....

Fun Family Photos...

2008-07-01T21:55:00.000-07:00

I met this gorgeous family last week to shoot a family picture before their son goes back to serve our country for another year. This family made my job fly. What fun. :)

They had all just gotten back from a vacay in Palm Springs, so they were all pretty tan... I felt like I should rub some dirt in my pasty whiteness just so I wouldn't blind them! Hope your eyes recovered, guys. :)

Here are a few of my favorites for a sneak peek.

See.. what did I tell ya! Bee-yooo-ti-ful, huh. :) Thanks for letting me into your world for a bit. I had a blast.

Off to see the Wizard...

2008-06-27T09:00:00.000-07:00

Not really.. but my hubby and I are going to Rancho Mirage today to lead worship for a marriage retreat and to hang out with friends and relax! It should be super fun, but I wanted to let you know that if you leave me an email, it won't get returned until Monday. Ok!! :)

Not wanting to leave you without a picture or two.. I just had to also share what we did for Father's Day. My husband is a pretty easy going guy when it comes to holidays, in that... he doesn't care if we celebrate them or not. I, however, am a huge holiday fan, and can't let one go by without some remembrance.

So this year, while Daddy was at church, we created a hallway of.. well this is where Todd and I argued.. I wanted to call it a hallway of blessing, but he thought that was lame, and wanted to call it a hallway of awesomeness. So you get to choose which hallway name you prefer, and we will move on from there. :) It was basically a bunch of notes that we decorated and hung up for him to read as he walked down the hallway.. and interactive Father's Day card, if you will. And we also made him his favorite dinner... meat! Yep, he's a man. :)

He is a great Daddy, and we just love him.

The Schwartz Family...

2008-06-17T09:04:00.000-07:00

So, I had the pleasure of meeting a sweet family last week. Sherri got my name from the wonderful Dan Watkins, and booked a beach photo session. She lives in Missouri, but was out here on vacation.

Sherri and her boys were one of the easiest family's I have worked with. The boys sat and posed themselves.. I didn't have to tell them to change a thing. They made my job soooo easy. Thanks guys!! Here are a few of my favorites from the day.

Great to meet you guys!!

The staff huddle I have been longing for....

2008-06-14T20:12:00.000-07:00

So my husband works at a great church and though there are many reasons why it is a great church, I am only sharing one with you tonight.

Since Journey has been around, Mike Burns, the senior pastor, has taken the current staff for a mini retreat somewhere in the desert. He does this to build the team, provide a rest for the staff, and communicate where the church is headed. In all the churches that Todd and I have worked at.. Journey is the only one that does this. It was sooo needed. I took my camera, but was having such a great time relaxing that I didn't get it out much.

I did happen to capture a few pics from our last night there. Mike took all 40+ of us to Kobe, a Japanese steak house ala Bennyhana's...meaning, the crazy chef cooks your food at the table and does fancy tricks and such. I am all about the experience and had way too much fun. :)

Here is the chef pouring a lovely ginger sauce into our little bowls.. I just liked the way everything was lined up.

Here is our teaching pastor and wife, Ed and Linda looking in awe at a fancy fire trick.... Oooooooo....

We were all sitting in groups of 6, and we kept hearing the occasional sad "aww.. man" coming from the other tables. One of the tricks the chef does is to pop a piece of shrimp into the customers mouth with his spatula. I am proud to say that all of our guys caught them.. There were no aww...man's at our table! And seeing as how you probably get out much more that I do, you probably already knew all this.. but I didn't... Let the simple girl live a little!! :)

Here are Rod and Jason looking lovely! And for the record, my man also was on the top of his game.. but he was too close for me to photograph...

A close up fancy fire trick... I am easily impressed. Oooooooo.. oh wait, I already said that.

Tara took a snap of Todd and I, and seeing as my husband doesn't like his picture taken, I am always happy when we get something... anything... even grainy, dark, ones like this. I am rocking my glasses, after trying very hard to be super cool all day with my Hollywood shades...but my contacts were starting to glue themselves to my eyeballs, so out they went. I am sure the 108 degree weather didn't help....

Thanks so much Mike. You don't even know how much we love being back in the family!! :)

And for all you couples whom I photographed as we were waiting, send me your email in a comment, and I will forward your picture to you.

And.. if you work at a church that doesn't take yearly retreats as a staff... get on it!!

Random thought time....

2008-06-06T08:43:00.001-07:00

I am woefully behind on posting. I have a few sessions to get up, but the end of May and the entirety of June is turning out to be extremely busy. So, I thought I would kick off the weekend with a Random Thought posts... I know how you all love those!!

-We finally got a kitty. My man has wanted one for a very long time, and 2 weeks ago he picked up a fluffy, gray tiger striped beast.. I mean kitten. It took us a while to name him and we settled on Buster, realizing later as we were watching the second season of Arrested Development that we had named our kitten after the crazy brother. Such is life in our house. And the name fits as our kitten/beast/predator of walking feet is completely pyscho!!

Here is the beast! He is ferocious.

-Last week I fell as I was doing something very dangerous... walking... yep. Don't try that at home. I actually slipped on Buster's food plate and my arm caught the corner of the stove. Nothing hurt at the time, but now I am sore all over.. and it's been a week... I probably should have gone to see a chiropracter!!

-School is out for us, and without the structure of homeschool... and by structure I mean in the most free-spirited, relaxed way... my kids are already claiming boredom. My new favorite phrase to them is... "Wow...I think you forgot about being grateful for all the wonderful things you have... and if complaining continues, said wonderful things will be taken away." So far... it works. But I am going to be really stuck if I actually have to take away wonderful things because then they will be realllllly bored. I love it when my discipline backs me into a corner. That is some good parenting.

I should write a book.... ;)

-I am getting partial highlights today... just thought you would want to know. It has been years since I have had my hair professionally colored... and I don't mean that it hasn't been colored. Oh yes, it has been lots of different shades of brown. There was the lovely shade of Olive Green Brown when I went too ashy with the color. The was the Burnt Orange Brown when I tried to color over a bad highlight job that I gave to myself. :) So now, I am trusting my hair to Emily Benitez who does a fabulous job!! And maybe if you are lucky.. I will post some pictures.

Here's a random pic of my kiddos. If you have seen my hallway canvas, you know I have a great shot of the 2 of them.. but that was 2 years ago. I am constantly trying to get another shot of them for another canvas.. and have yet to attain that shot. I will prevail one of these days...

My 100th post....

2008-05-29T10:53:00.000-07:00

This is actually closer to my 200th post, but since I have combined blogs, I lost all of the other posts.. such is life! :)

This past weekend, I had the absolute pleasure of helping Carey Shumacher of Barefoot Memories and Me Ra Koh of Me Ra Koh Photography with assisting at one of their workshops for women. They needed photographers who already knew their camera to come and help workshop attendees during the photoshoots as there were only 2 of them, and 30+ attendees. On Saturday, I met them at the beautiful Rancho Bernarndo Inn for a Mom and Baby photoshoot... I didn't take any pictures that day... I was just so pleased to be able to meet these two phenomenal women photographers!!

On Sunday, we met at the Wind and Sea Beach in La Jolla, and I will definitely have to add that beach to my list of locations. I am taking my family there next week! :) It was beautiful, and this time I did take some photos.

Here is a few of Carey.. teaching what she does best.. beach shots!

And, here is Me Ra... helping out...

And here is Brian, Me Ra's husband not paying attention, and taking some scenic shots. :)

Then the workshops gals were split up into groups of 5-6 and given a photographer and a family. I wasn't there to shoot pics, but to help the women.... but you know me.. I couldn't help snap a couple. This was an adorable family!!

I wish I had gotten a tiny bit lower on this shot... that is their parents feet in the background and I just loved the moment...

Again, thanks for letting me help out, and I am so glad I was able to meet you both! If you ever need assistants again... give me a holler!! :)

Prayer...

2008-05-22T12:26:00.000-07:00

I woke up this morning to a sad news story. Steven Curtis Chapman and family are in the midst of grief right now. I don't normally write about happenings in the world, and I don't know why this has hit me so hard. Maybe because I met SCC when I was 18, or maybe because we had a few of his songs at our wedding...

I am letting you know in case you didn't... SCC's daughter was killed last night, and their family needs a ton of lifting up, in whatever way you feel comfortable.

Read here for the whole news story.

Happy Mother's Day!!

2008-05-11T15:15:00.000-07:00

Random Thought Time!!

- I have have been a momma for 9 years... weird to think that almost a decade has gone by. I sure hope I have learned a few things...

- Being married to a pastor means we celebrate Mother's Day on Saturday usually. However, last night our family was volunteering for Journey Up Babysitting to raise money for the church, so I get Monday!! I will take it. :)

- We have decided to stay in our condo for now. We just didn't find the right fit anywhere else, and feel good about some changes we are going to make around here! Most notably the rats...the Rodent man's a'coming tomorra!!

- I was very excited to grab myself a Soy Chai and enjoy our church service today. My daughter (and the devil??) decided to steal my joy by throwing a huge fit. I missed my nephew's baby dedication and most of the worship and walked in the WC sooooo frustrated... But just was overwhelmed by Ed's message. I needed to hear everything he had to say today. Whoo.. I am fired up!

- And lastly... My man and I watched the last bit of "Carrie" by Stephen King (while the kiddos were resting in their rooms)..... It was at the part where she locks everyone in the gym, and I was not creeped out by anything until her mother tried to kill her. I was very disturbed that someone would run that movie on this day!! Ummm.. also didn't like the hand coming out of the ground at the end. Ohh.. or the scary Jesus crucifix eyes... but other than that... I am ok. I will let you know how my sleep goes tomorrow!

And I am leaving you with a picture.. because I am not taking any today!! Don't worry, I picked a clean picture of Carrie.. before she goes all psycho!

Blessings to all you momma's out there. The sacrifice that you make on a daily basis does not go unnoticed.

I love babies...

2008-05-04T23:18:00.001-07:00

But you must have already figured that out by now... right?? This was my second session with sweet Miss M. Her mamma really wanted pictures that captured the stage of life she was in right now.

Here she is looking all sweet and contemplative...

This is one of my favorites. She is constantly making this face and it makes me want to squish her!

And though you know I love black and white photos.. I had to include some color because this munchkin has some bright blue eyes... and she also is very much in love with her daddy. My heart was in a puddle.. I am telling you!

She found something interesting on the grass. It is fascinating stuff.

And a few more of my favorites just because...

Thanks for letting me into your world for a little bit. Can't wait for her 1st birthday session!!

2008-04-29T12:37:00.001-07:00

Park Day is always a fun day for our house. We get to hang out with a bunch of cool people, eat a packed lunch, and most importantly... I get to squish babies! There are always a bunch to choose from because apparently these girls got together and decided to all have babies within weeks of each other. You won't hear me complaining!!

I finally brought my camera. Yay!! I am sure the kiddos were really happy to have me in their face!

So I got to meet this little guy, Mr. S. He had just started walking and was happy to let me follow him around. I didn't get permission to show his beautiful face, but trust me... he is a cutie!!

So this is a little dude that I am very fond of. The tiny man will not sit still. Never... not even a little bit. His poor mamma.... I asked if he would smile for me so we could show his daddy... Well, he did for less than a nano-second. Thank the Lord for fast cameras, huh! He also told me that Daddy works at Syntax, and Daddy loves me. If I could have caught him, I would have squished him!

And meet his little brother who doesn't have the good sense to run away from me yet. He still snuggles with me at park day, and my heart melts. You just wouldn't believe the eyelashes on this kid... J.U.S.T. N.O.T. F.A.I.R!!

And then there was a sweet cheeked princess who told me she wanted to live with me.. but alas her beautiful mother won't believe me. I will keep trying!!

Meet her two brothers. Mr. E just got some stylin' glasses, and I couldn't resist a quick snap. They also have 2 older sisters who weren't at the park when I was snapping away. Next time...

And last.. my two. They still bring my heart so much joy. Love them to bits!!

Thanks ladies for letting me take some pictures for you!! As always, I had a blast. :)

My latest acceptance...

2008-04-24T10:05:00.000-07:00

As we were driving home from lunch a few weeks ago, I saw a strawberry stand and nearly wrecked the car in an effort to procur some delightful berries. :) I used to live in Camarillo, where the air is perfumed with essence of strawberry... well, to be honest.. sometimes cow manure too.....

But, the strawberries were just from the heavenlies.. the hugest things you have ever seen, sweet and melt in your mouth. So, you can understand my excitement when I saw the fruit stand, and yes we paid $23 for a huge flat of them. It was soooo worth it.

Come on... I know you want some. And, so did Istockphoto.com. Here's hoping I will make my $23 back. :)

2008-04-17T23:35:00.000-07:00

An updated blog with bigger pictures!! Woohoo.. I figured it out. Tell me what you think of it. :)

An Engagement Session a the Hotel Del....

2008-04-16T14:09:00.000-07:00

It is so interesting to me how couples find me to take their pictures. Whenever I first meet with them, I always want to hear how they got my name.

So a few months ago I get an email from Olivia whose last name was very familiar, and she proceeded to tell me she was the sister of one of my friends in high school. And no... we didn't go to the same high school, but we worked at a great kid's camp up in Jamul, and she and I hit it off. But we lived a ways from each other and drifted apart.

We recently have reconnected through email, and all the great memories I have came flooding back. And E... if you are reading this.. we really need to get together girl!! That is how good of a friend she is... we haven't seen each other in years, but she sent her sister to me. I think I am going to buy that woman some flowers.

So, back to the point... because if you know me, you know I lose my point rather quickly... I had the privilege of taking pictures of a great looking couple who were so in love. I don't think they stopped snuggling and holding hands the entire time... except when Joe was on a quest for seaweed... but again I digress.

We were at the beautiful Hotel Del Coronado on Monday, and it was an absolutely divine day to be there. I am still madly editing away, but I wanted to get a few pics up so Olivia and Joe could have a sneak peek. Here are a few of my early favorites!!

Aren't they cute!! Joe and Olivia were looking for more journalistic, un-posed shots, but I did have to a get a few of their darling faces!!

It's her party...

2008-04-12T23:48:00.000-07:00

My little sister had a birthday last week and whenever there is an event, my inner Jennifer Lopez ala Wedding Planner and my inner pre-prison Martha comes barreling through. I love me a good party!

We all met at a Mexican place in Escondido for dinner, and Amy had asked me to make some cupcakes. She requested a chocolate peanut butter combo, and, as mentioned above, my inner self cannot merely make a boxed cake mix with store bought frosting... so I found a great recipe and thought it would be a snap.... 2 hours later, I had cupcakes that I knew would taste good, but my decorating skills left much to be desired. Oh well... She loved them!! As did our waiter, and the manager. What can I say, I feed with love. Don't judge.. I am a work in progress. :)

The first picture is a perfect description of our relationship... she does something extremely funny, and I proceed to cackle like a hyena. Such pretty faces we make.. but hey I am all about keeping it real!!

The beautiful O family. :) It was freezing outside and I made them sit for a quick snap... I am sure they love me alot!

Princess R... she is a doll

My handsome nephew who didn't want his picture taken... has that ever stopped me??

And last but not least... a picture of the 3 very spiritual women who went to see Beth Moore this weekend. This was not part of the birthday celebration, but I needed to include it as it was a life changing event in my life. There aren't words to describe the awesomeness..... See... I am even making up words!!

Eight Days

2008-04-11T09:29:00.001-07:00

This is a very moving video, and it is also very sad. I am not afraid of sadness, and I hope you will take the time to watch this clip.

The reason I posted this is to highlight an organization that helps families through their grief. It is called Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep and I have recently joined as a photographer to capture the final moments of a child's life. If you are a photographer and you haven't joined.... do it now. If you aren't a photographer, you can still help by spreading the word about the organization.

A little lifestyle session at the park...

2008-04-07T11:57:00.000-07:00

Here is one of the littlest men that I know. This little dude already looks like a mini-man to me. :) He has such great expressions, and the sweetest smile... of which I didn't get to see much. It was a little chilly at the park, and he wasn't too pleased to be there. His parents and I did the best we could... but they ended up leaving pretty soon after we arrived.... Little man wasn't having anymore fun at the park, and picture time was over. :)

I did get a few that I think are precious and mark the great milestones in his short 2 months of life... his smile and his cooing. I hope you guys enjoy. :)

Doesn't he have the cutest little expressions you have ever seen?? :) I am in love....

Park day...

2008-04-03T23:55:00.000-07:00

We went to the park today... I had a mini baby photoshoot... I will post those pics later. My kiddos were along for the ride because any day that they get to go to a park is a good day.

If you have been to my house, you know that I have a huge black and white canvas of my kiddos in my hallway. It was taken almost two years ago, and while I love it, I need to get a newer picture up.... So, here are a few canidates. Let me know which one is your fave!

Both of my kiddos are in this new phase of being hyper aware of who is looking at them and such, and they were a bit embarassed about mommy taking pictures of them... so these were the best I got. You can tell T3 is a little ticked in a few of these. But I love their sparkling eyes and their sweet cheeks!!

Oh.. and not only are they black and white because I love it, but also because the clothing style of my children left a lot to be desired. T3 was sporting a yellow and green tye-dye deal, while Princess H was in a pink and white flowered dress. Not exactly complimentary colors....

Help...

2008-03-27T06:19:00.000-07:00

I used to work out to these people when I was in high school.... They are happy and bubbly aren't they??

So, we live in a busy part of town, and have never had much of a problem with our condo backed up to a business alley....

Well... there was that one incident where 3 drunk kids were causing a ruckus in the alley at midnight, so Todd went down to talk to them, and ended up having to call 911because one of the punks had alcohol poisoning.... They were all 13 years old...

So, this morning I was awakened at 5:45am to loud screams from the alley, and I again thought Todd would have to go help someone out. Umm, it wasn't drunk kids.... It is a personal training facilty that apparently likes to use loud music and torture to whip their clients bodies into shape. I have no ill will towards people who work out, but when you involve me when I don't want to be involved, we have problems. I have tolerated their 8am class for almost a year, but at 8am when I am already up, it isn't a big deal. I am not usually up at 5:45am, thus I am blogging, and a little, make that alot grumpy.

I actually found their website and gave them a call to ask if they could shut their back door...they did right away.... it didn't help. I mean, seriously, it is so loud I can hear exactly what song is being played, and how many counts are left in their repetitions. How do I know... well because the lady is repeatedly yelling them into a MICROPHONE!!!! at 5:45am.....

I don't want to call the police on dedicated, working-out people...or probably dedicated, working-out, buff people...I really don't, so what do you think I should do???

Maybe I will contact my buddies Denise, and Richard and see what the etiquette of am workouts are....

One of my favorite Easter songs...

2008-03-24T15:02:00.003-07:00

Jody McBrayer, formerly of Avalon does a fabulous job on this song...

Did you know Jody is a guy and has a higher vocal range than I do....

I am a sucker for power ballads...

I hope you will all listen to the entire song and feel blessed.

Have a blessed Easter everyone!

Anybody need some coffee???

2008-03-20T22:34:00.000-07:00

Quick thought before I retire for the night..

"All excess is rooted in emptiness"

Who do you think said that?? What do you think this person's intention was?

And hey, if you are the first person than can tell me who said that... I will send you a $10 Starbucks card! No joke. Get cracking people!

These are special times...

2008-03-10T18:03:00.000-07:00

I only have a few pictures to share today. These were taken last week because of a few momentous occasions. The first being Todd and my 10th anniversary of marriage. I truly think it is monumental because we had our share of rough years... not patches... years! And God has been super faithful to keep us bonded together.

We went to the House of Blues downtown for a great dinner, and we played tourist in the gift shop and held hands and walked around. Fun fact.....we honeymooned in San Diego 10 years ago, so it was very surreal for us to be there on a very special day thinking about what babies we were, and how we had no idea what our new life together would hold. I don't think I would change a thing about it... except maybe the almost dying thing. That I could do without. :)

As a surprise, I contacted the same woman who made our wedding cake and had her re-create the topper for us. Double Ghiradeli Chocolate Chunk...need I say more?? Todd didn't know about it until the day of, and he was super happy to chow down on some we when got home.

This was the only picture I got as we left. I severely underexposed it, and to salvage what I could, I converted it to b/w and added lots of grain. I don't like to fix major issues like this in photoshop, but I wanted to have something to remember the occasion by!! :)

And the other momentous occasion last week... Todd started his first Karate class!! I didn't want to embarass him at the Karate studio, so I snapped a few pics before we left.

Daddy had to take him to get his uniform because they had to buy a cup as well. Not only do I not know anything about that, I was overcome with the supreme discomfort of a little boy who is growing up way too fast for my liking. I liken it to when I will have to shop for a training bra for Hannah....

So, here is one of his Karate poses. Don't you just want to pinch him??

It Random Thought time.....

2008-02-29T10:28:00.000-08:00

I haven't posted my thoughts in a while, and I am sure you are all just dying to get inside this crazy head of mine. :)

-My 10 year anniversary is 6 days away. WHAT!! How have I been married for 10 years??? We haven't decided what we will be doing. Oh, sure, we have had grand plans (and when I say we, I mean me!) but the mula to do such things hasn't been forthcoming, so we might have to scale back on the grand plans..... for now!!

-My son just asked if he can have one of my diamond rings to give to the girl he will marry someday so he doesn't have to spend a lot of money on a ring for her. Hmmm, I am not quite sure what to think of that.

-Hannah has been doing her hair lately, and I have been catching myself reaching to fix her lopsided and messy pigtails, because I want them to look perfect. Or is it because I don't want people to think I did her hair. And that reminds me that I care way too much about what people think. It is amazing that God uses tiny, seemingly insignificant things to change my heart on a daily basis.

-In the time it has taken to type the above, my son has changed his mind. He is no longer getting married at all, because he can't fathom saving money for "over a year" for a ring. I think I need to go have a chat with him. :)

-I love my kids, but having them here with me all the time has brought the need for Sarah Time to astronomic levels. In fact, I need to go... we have a park play day, and there will be actual, real, people... live people. People who don't want to talk about Pokemon, or Barbies, or puppies, or Harry Potter... I really need to go.

I will leave you with these pics I snapped yesterday at the golden light hour of 5pm. I was practicing my sunflare shots. I love their backlit hair!

A new arrival...

2008-02-17T10:50:00.000-08:00

I have a new nephew. He is such a doll, and we were finally able to meet him last night for the first time. I snapped a few pictures to show you how cute he is. If this is any indication, his upcoming newborn photo session will be full of cuteness. :)

Welcome to the world little man.....

Updates....

2008-02-17T10:23:00.000-08:00

We have had a really busy week, and I have not had time to update this thing! Last Saturday (the 9th) Todd and I went to a Creative Arts conference led by Nancy Beach. It was neat to finally see her in person, and watch her share her heart. She definitely made me tear up a few times.

What did I learn..... I loved her 10 question checklist that entailed why we do what we do, and what do we want people to walk away with after a Sunday service. It is something I will be using a lot. :)

Here are a few snaps of the day.
Look at all these people paying attention!!

What are they paying attention to??? Look... it's Nancy!

This dance that Rock Harbor's team performed was awesome!! As was their worship, but I didn't get a snap of that, cuz I was busy... worshipping!

It's Q and A time with Rod!!

Look... some happy people trying to find some energy after lunch!!

Good times!!

A few happy things...

2008-02-07T09:18:00.000-08:00

Todd and I have been married for 29 days shy of 10 years...

Did that make sense to you?? Because it made sense to me!

Anywhoo... we have learned a few things along the way, one the them being the importance of "our" time together. When Todd gets home from work, we usually snuggle on the bed for a few minutes. Usually, I am right in the middle of dinner, with hungry kiddos, so I don't have a bunch o'time. Sometimes we just lay there, sometimes we talk... but it is a good connection for us, even if we are eventually invaded by a snuggling addict...

I love their hands together and I told them to hold the position until I could get my camera. I will need to look at this when she is all grown up!

Todd is also the one who puts the kiddos to bed. I love that because by that time of night, I am spent. I have no energy left.... except to make some tea for me and coffee for my hubster. I usually try to scurry about and get dinner things picked up by the time the tea kettle boils.. I know... I have some OCD tendencies... umm don't we all!

But then I get to do this....

And it is so nice to sit back with my hubby and enjoy a hot drink and read, and watch some t.v., and chill.

Sometimes it is the little things in life...

I love Play Dough....

2008-02-04T09:47:00.000-08:00

Really, I do. I know it is a bit messy, but that doesn't bother me. You know why?? My daughter has been sitting at the table quietly playing for nearly 2 hours.

I'm not kidding.

And she keeps giggling to herself. I am just dying with the sweetness over here.

You know what is even better. We made it together this morning at precisely 7:54am with some salt, flour, water and oil, and food coloring. I buy bulk flour and salt from Sprouts, so I think the total for her play dough experience was a whopping .37 cent investment.

I'm not kidding. (I actually did the math)

I know you want the recipe....
2 cups of flour
1/2 cup salt
Dash of vegetable oil
1/2 - 1 cup of hot tap water
Food coloring or even better... unsweetened Kool Aid!!

Mix everything together in a bowl. I recommend adding the salt and hot water together first so it can dissolve a bit. Add coloring and knead until it becomes elastic. Seriously, it took us 2 minutes, and it is safe and non-toxic. And, this dough can also be shaped and baked in the oven for painting crafts. I know... you are amazed, aren't you.

Alas.. the spell has been broken. As I type this, she is getting up from the table and cleaning up. It was great while it lasted. Now she is busy scrubbing all of her dishes.

Yep, I have trained her well. :)

I'm not kidding.

Afternoon delight....

2008-01-29T23:07:00.000-08:00

If you know me, you know that I don't like chocolate, and I don't eat very often. I never crave it... but today I really, truly, absolutely did, so I went ahead and made this. It is not the norm for me, but it was such a treat!! My husband was also happy for a rare after dinner dessert. I made myself a cup of hot peppermint tea, and sat back on my couch for a minute. Your day might just perk up a little if you try it!! Or, next time I make something, I will just have to invite you all over.

And yes, I also submitted this to my stock photography site, and wouldn't you know...it was already rejected!! I am beginning to think that I will never get it right!!

I will just eat this slice of deliciousness in protest. :)

2008-01-26T09:39:00.000-08:00

I have 3 sisters (and 2 brothers, but we aren't going to talk about them today!!). Which means I have built in, always there best friends. It is great, and even if we aren't getting along, it always works out in the end.

My sister Jenn and I have daughters who are a few months apart, and they have become very good friends. The problem being Miss M lives in AZ, and that makes playdates a little trickier. They were out for New Year's Eve weekend, so we arranged to have Miss M come and spend the night for Hannah's first sleepover. It was so fun.... for them....! We had a tea party and you will know from my previous tea party posts, that I actually let them make their own, complete with milk and sugar and cookies. They also had a guacamole recipe contest, and when Miss M found Hannah's Halloween costume section, she had a blasty blast!

My other sister Melissa loves to buy matching outfits for the girls. (She is adopting a little girl as well, so soon these posts will have 3 matching ladies!) And they were just so cute that I had to snap a picture of them. Aren't they just precious???

Random thoughts...

2008-01-23T17:45:00.000-08:00

I think this will be a weekly addition to this blog.. all of my lovely randomness. But this time... I am going to add pictures!!!

-I didn't know that my husband read my blog until he said last week...."Hon, if you need Sarah Time, all you gotta do is ask." :) Good thing he reads it huh! So, last Friday, I was sent to do some shopping and hang out at Barnes and Noble. All by myself. Completely alone in the child's section (because that was where the quiet corner was!). Looking at People magazine, and a photography book. Heaven!

-Speaking of wonderful husbands, Saturday Todd brought me these... for no reason...actually I take that back.. there is a reason... I am too wonderful and these flowers symbolize all of that wonderfulness....but I digress.

I love him....

-Speaking about love....Monday was a rainy day so the kiddos and I made this. Which I love...

And then we added this to make....My favorite snack. Or meal actually. You should try it.

-Speaking of trying something... My sis and I went to sushi last night. I am ever thankful because the last time I had sushi was in the summer. My family doesn't crave sushi like I do (well Hannah does but she is good with TJ's sushi in a pinch)and it gets expensive. Amy and I went at the wrong time though and had to wait almost an hour for a table. The Rancho Roll was well worth the wait... seriously... I am still thinking about it this morning... I wish I knew how to make it. Sigh.

-On our way out...Hannah fell asleep on the couch, and I had to snap a picture because this is what I see when she is snuggling with me in bed. The long dark eyelashes... the sweet cheeks... the curve of her nose... just kissable. :)
Wish my husband luck in trying to put an energetic, untired 6 year old in bed!!

And thus concludes this weeks randomness. :)

Food photography...

2008-01-23T13:07:00.000-08:00

Well... I have been on a quest to learn about different kinds of photography. A while back I was accepted into a very "hard to get into" stock photography group, and have since been snapping away in hopes that I would get some extra cash. Well, it isn't as easy as it seems. They are hard to get into because they only want picture perfect photos for designers to choose from. I try not to get discouraged... but I have only had 2 accepted out of 50 pictures submitted!! I hear that is common. They will like me one day... one can only hope!!

Here are a few recents that were rejected.... but don't feel too bad!! It all tasted fabulous. ;)

My baby...

2008-01-21T11:12:00.000-08:00

You may have read my post about birthdays when my son turned 8 last year...and so I won't bore you with another sermon. Because today is my daughter's 6th birthday, and I just grow more astounded every year they surpass. How did the little tiny thing that stole my heart grow into such a little lady???

This girl named Hannah loves to dance and loves music. In fact, she is in her room right now blaring Plumb. I thought that I would be able to wait until she was a teenager to bellow... "Turn down your music!!", but no, I get to do that on a daily basis.

This girl named Hannah drives me crazy with her moodiness and sassiness, and attitude, but it constantly reminds of my moodiness, sassiness, and attitude. I guess it is one of God's ways of teaching me.

This girl named Hannah is the most beautiful, precious daughter a momma could ever have. (Please understand that I know every mom feels this way!)But 6 years ago, I didn't know if I would get to see her 1st birthday, let alone her 6th. (I will post the full story at a later date)

This girl named Hannah loves getting her toes painted, and so we decided to take 2 special friends (Miss Trinity and Miss Katie) down to a salon and get their toes purtied up!! Hannah also requested chocolate cupcakes with strawberry frosting, and a cherry on the top. So I obliged. Homemade all the way, I might add!! After the salon, we went to Mimi's cafe and enjoyed cupcakes, tea and fellowship. She felt loved and I am so glad. :)

Here are a few pictures her special day! Happy Birthday sweet girl.

Her 6 year old pictures...

The toes....

The happy girls

Mmmmmm..homemade dark chocolate cupcakes with real buttercream frosting!

Hey, if you don't want kid germs over the whole cake.. cupcakes are the way to go. :)

Love the sunflare, and the pink frosting upon her face!

Thoughts....

2008-01-16T10:39:00.000-08:00

A few things I am thinking about right now...

..My daughter is turning 6, and she is acting and looking like a little woman. It scares me, but I don't let her know.

..My husband has taken a liking to Family Guy, and I think it is horrid. But then, he probably feels that way about The Real Housewives of the O.C. that I watch.

..I haven't taken my thyroid meds for a few days, and I am feeling it. I need to get my prescription refilled.

..I have another lifelong friend leaving for the other side of the country.. as if the Fai'ais leaving wasn't enough. I am sad about that, but happy for them.

..I love Sprouts, and I am on my way to get some fresh veggies and bulk items that I am out of. My children think it is a playground, and that drives me crazy. I am thinking about bribing them with fast food lunch... does that make me a bad mother, or just one trying to survive this thing called motherhood/homeschool.

..Speaking of homeschool, it isn't going too bad, considering I haven't a drop of Sarah Time anymore. I don't miss the stress and worry and heartache that was my life when they were in school. My kiddos are very happy and I am soooo glad. I would do anything for them... even give up my freedom. :)

..That reminds me, I need to tell my husband that I need some Sarah Time.

Thus concludes today's thoughts. The amount of random thoughts I have is astounding, so be prepared for lots of crazy talk from yours truly. :)

Just a thought...

2008-01-15T22:48:00.000-08:00

A couple of my friends got some really nice cameras for Christmas, and asked me a while back to host a Photoshop Class for them. I am totally up for it, and wanted to spread the word. If you or someone you know needs some editing lessons, let me know. :) If I get enough response, I will probably find a bigger venue for all of us.

My boys...

2008-01-15T14:08:00.000-08:00

I love these two. I especially love how they have such a connection between them. It all started when...(cue the squiggly hazy lines that signals a flash back sequence)....

Umm, it started when little Todd was born. I know he loved me, but nothing could make him light up like his daddy. When he could crawl, he would wait by the door and make what we refer to as "lemon faces" until Daddy walked in and picked him up. Sometimes he would take toys over with him to pass the time, and occasionally he would nurse, you know, if he got hungry and stuff. And much to his dismay, I made him take a nap or two, horrible mamma that I am. But most of his day was spent waiting for the "big man". He would start this little bounce thing when he heard the car pull into the gravel driveway. Yep, my heart was melted, but also a little bit envious of the obvious devotion he had, and still has for that matter.

I am older and hopefully wiser, and I know now that there is nothing in this world I want more for my son than a great relationship with his Dad, earthly and Heavenly. I often remind my hubster that he has a great responsibility. (as if he needs my help!!) It is a powerful thing to have someone adore you that much. One that I pray often that my husband and I use wisely.

Umm... Can I get a witness!! What, what!! :)

Just so you know...

2008-01-14T18:33:00.001-08:00

I have decided to combine my 2 blogs into one, in an effort to streamline my work day. So, don't be surprised when you notice more photography stuff combined with family stuff. :)

Blessing to you all... more posts to come very shortly. :)