Greater Works Photography

2010-02-09T20:00:00.000-08:00

This Blog
is
Under Construction...

Check out our website:

Greater Works Photography & Graphic Design

Christmas Mini-Shoot!!

2009-11-06T10:18:00.000-08:00

Cuties!

2009-11-03T07:22:00.000-08:00

This Halloween...

2009-10-28T11:58:00.000-07:00

Greater Works Photography is hosting Halloween mini shoots for only $20!

When: Saturday, October 31, 2009
Where: Croxton Memorial Park (1001 NE Memorial Dr. by GPHS in Grants Pass)
Openings Available from: 9:00am to 5:00pm

Shoots last from 15min.-30min.
Shoots can include more than one child and or groups of friends.
You will receive at least 10-20 HR images on CD later in the week.

Please Call to schedule your shoot: 541-659-9879

2009-10-20T10:42:00.000-07:00

As you reach forward with one hand, accept the advice of those who have gone before you, and in the same manner reach back with the other hand to those who follow you; for life is a fragile chain of experiences held together by love. Take pride in being a strong link in that chain. Discipline yourself, but do not be harsh. The pleasures of life are yours to be taken. Share them with others, but always remember that you, too, have earned the right to partake.

Know those who love you; love is the finest of all gifts and is received only to be given. Embrace those who truly love you; for they are few in a lifetime. Then return that love tenfold, radiating it from your heart to fill their lives as sunlight warms the darkest corners of the earth. Love is a journey, not a destination; travel its path daily. Do this and your troubles will be as fleeting as footprints in the sand. When loneliness is your companion and all about you seem to be gone, pause and listen, for the sound of loneliness is silence, and in silence we hear best. Listen well, and your moments of silence will always be broken by the gentle words of encouragement spoken by those of us who love you.

2009-10-02T16:39:00.001-07:00

2009-08-08T11:17:00.000-07:00

2009-08-08T10:43:00.000-07:00

Dear Parker,

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

I cannot wrap my head around the idea that you've been a part of my life for 10 years, which seems impossible. Wasn't it just yesterday that they, the scary doctors from K-Falls cut you out of my womb and rushed you into the NICU? Lifeless, breathless and blue you came into this world and no one would guess that today when they look at the fullness of life that is contained in your eyes.

I come back to that memory of you often, when we were finally both well enough to be together, your right arm extended toward my face, the two of us meeting for the first time. You were so perfect!

Parker, OMG your 10!!! Ten years old!! My sweet baby boy has become a long and lean preteen…

You have become completely self-sufficient, there came a point in the last year when I felt like I was home free, like well, he can dress himself, pour his own cereal and read instructions, what's left for me to do? And now that you've grasped Wikipedia, do you really need me, an aging and out-of-touch busy body trying to guide you through life? Ok, that possibly is an exaggeration, but gosh you could ask me for help once in awhile just to make me feel like a good mom.

Your 10, for heaven’s sake you even have b.o.! This was brought to my attention last week and caused a two day crying spell about you becoming a real boy, a little man. I know you think I’m ridiculous and silly, but someday when you have kids of your own I think you will understand. In the blink of an eye you changed from a tiny baby into a young man who already wears the same shoe size as I do! Time flew by Parker, but I have so enjoyed watching you grow, learn, love and overcome adversity.

Your artistic abilities are truly outstanding. The paintings you create are beautiful and your drawings contain such great detail. You are a designer, builder, constructor extraordinaire! Your ability to build something grand out of nothing is an awesome talent. Your livelihood and character are a huge part of what people see about you. You’re rambunctious and full of energy, always on the go, always on a mission to complete something new!

Parker, I want to thank you for being a great big brother. I know it’s not always easy and lot of time it’s just downright frustrating to you. I hope that through being the oldest you will glen great qualities such as being a leader, that you will take pride in being an example, and value your place in being the man of our house. I appreciate you and all that you do around here big guy! I appreciate your love and loyalty to your brother and how you tell him a bed time story each night, I appreciate that you aren’t too cool to play with your sister, even if that means playing with her dollhouse.

Ten years old!! Wow! Mr. P I sure do love you with all of my heart. Today I’m in awe of you… I love your blond curls and bright blue eyes. I love that you can roll your eyes in crazy directions. I love how you get my sarcasm, shake your head and say, "Mom, you're just joking." I love how your proud of the fact that you gave me my stretch marks and that you are the one who made me a mom.

I adore how you still sleep with the baby blanket I made you tucked into the side of your bed. I enjoy watching you attempt crazy tricks on your bike and jumping like a mad man on the trampoline. I dig your guitar playin and watching you belt out your favorite song in the car. Oh son, your laugh, just so you know is the best; it brings great joy to my heart when I see you filled with laughter.

You have changed so much since that first day when I met you, a day that altered my life so drastically that sometimes it still feels like I'm catching my breath. I imagine that I won't ever stop feeling this way, won't ever stop having a portion of my brain dedicated to the thought of where you are and what you're doing, won't ever be able to escape the constant, nagging hope that you are happy and fulfilled.

Happy Tenth Birthday Parker, you rock my world bud! Thanks for making me a mom. I hope I’m doing a good job, God knows I try my hardest. I’m so blessed to have you as a son and I so look forward to our next 10 years together!!

Love you bud,
Mom

Beauty and Brains!

2009-08-03T11:38:00.000-07:00

This is my dear friend Melanie, she is not only beautiful but very intelligent and she has a lot of talent to share with this big 'ol world.....

So, I'd like to take a moment to ask all of you, my lovely readers to do me a favor......You will? aww, that's just so sweet and kind of you.

Please look at Mel's Blog: Debt-Free by 30 and by look at it I mean take the time to read her message to you........

"There have been ‘two’ things I can absolutely count on every year and this has been since birth. On both my birthday and Christmas Eve, I am given a small, white envelope with my name on the front, the handwriting familiar and the contents guaranteed. This year was the 58th time I opened that gift, given to me by my Grandpa Charles and Grandma Beryl Elmore. My Gram has carried on the tradition since my Grandpa’s passing. Inside the card, signed and dated in the same handwriting, crisp as if just off the press, a $2 bill." - Melanie Hogan

Continue over to Her Blog to read more. Oh and.....She is selling lovely prints on her blog for just 2 bucks, yes you read correctly 2 bucks!

What are you waiting for? Go read, go look, go buy!!!

Please join the world in praying for Kate

2009-07-27T08:43:00.000-07:00

Poetry Night...

2009-07-23T11:02:00.000-07:00

It's Poetry night again here in Grants Pass:

John Eyler host poetry night at the Dancing Otter every Thursday night from 7-9.

John has also created a site called Rogue and Poet with the desire to showcase local artists, galleries, musicians, authors, crafters and even a few photographers. (Thanks John)

Click here to view the write up that the Daily Courier printed last Thursday about poetry night. You can also view this video footage from the Dancing Otter's poetry night on July 9.

I would like to encourage you to stop by just to listen and grab a cup of their amazing Zimbabwean Coffee or better yet bring some of your original pieces to read aloud!!!

Cancer

2009-07-08T01:16:00.000-07:00

Cancer has unfortunately been in my life and from a very young age I've watched it plague many of my closest loved ones.

It changes you.

You learn what's really important, you learn to say "I love you" more, you learn to let go of hurtful things. You learn to cherish moments, to make hugs last a little longer. You learn that poems don't always rhyme, and some stories don't have a clear beginning, middle, and end. You learn that life is full of unanswered questions. You learn about hope and courage. You learn about the beauty of peace.

Please join me in praying for my dear friend Robyn. Robyn is a vibrant woman of God, she is gracious, giving and loving beyond anything I can express. She is a wife, mother, daughter, sister and an incredible friend.

In the devastation of the doctors recent predictions, Robyn still shines like like a bright beacon on a hill. She amazes me more and more every day.

My Daughter one week after eye surgery

2009-07-05T10:45:00.001-07:00

Going Barefoot

2009-06-23T16:42:00.000-07:00

I am thinking about looking inward and not outward. Doing all that I can with all that I have. In my space, In my time. Not wishing to be in someone else's shoes, for they will not fit. Being brave and going barefoot!

finding a way...

to let go of what people think

to not be scared of judgment

to address what i feel in the moment rather than let it build up

to make time for what is important to me

to let go of what is not

to know that it's okay if i don't always do my best

because good-enough will be good enough for today

to listen to my body when it's speaking to me

to let people know when i might need their help

to let people know when i need to retreat for a while

to start the project, the one i have been dreaming of

to take my courage in my hands and ASK

to use the inspiration and create a new way of seeing

to place my two feet on the path, rather than one foot here and one foot there

to trust that love will heal my heart

to be willing and welcome it

to truly see the good things

to know that the bad things carry a message within them

to know, in my heart, that this too will pass

to let it go, to let it go, to let it go

to remember that I have survived worse, and flourished

Summer Referral and Returning Client Discount

2009-06-09T09:06:00.001-07:00

I so value and appreciate word of mouth referrals. In order to keep prices down for my clients, I do not spend tons of money on advertising. Instead, I rely on you guys to help spread the word!!!

So I have developed a program as my way of saying, Thank You for mentioning my name! Now when you tell your family, friends, neighbors, coworkers and perfect strangers about Greater Works Photography and they book a photo session with me, you will receive $25 off a photo session for yourself. Just make sure they tell me you sent them!

There is no limit to the amount of referrals you can get credit for and it will stay on your account for two years.

I'm also offering a 25% discount for any returning clients this summer.

Call 541-659-9879 to book a photo session

Summer program ends September 1st.

Burn to Learn

2009-06-07T10:48:00.000-07:00

My Favorite Mother/Daughter Duo

2009-06-05T09:01:00.000-07:00

puppy love.

2009-05-29T12:25:00.000-07:00

Twitter Anyone?

2009-05-26T08:58:00.001-07:00

How Do You Explain Twitter To A Newbie?

Cute Kids...

2009-05-26T08:02:00.000-07:00

Just a tease...

2009-05-22T14:05:00.000-07:00

This is just a teaser of whats to come...
This is a picture of my daughter and her buddy Nehemiah at the end of a photo shoot I did of his family...

These are some of the cutest kids, so stay tuned to see more of Nehemiah and his family!!!

Be sure to visit: Greater Works Photography

Charlie Chase of "The Mixers"

2009-05-11T17:48:00.000-07:00

I'm the one mixing it up today with some band photography.

Here are a few shots of Charlie Chase who can really jump jive an' wail
with the best of them when he performs live with a local band called The Mixers.

Charlie was also mentioned here: Rogue & Poet

Lovely Sisters...

2009-05-10T23:56:00.000-07:00

His Children...

2009-05-10T23:54:00.000-07:00

When I was a little girl
my eyes held all knowing in their sockets.
If a thing too overwhelming came to be,
I could simply close my tiny eyes
and un-see the unmanageable.

When what I fear the most enters my vision,
and with willing eyes I take it in,
in all of its terrifying possibilities,
it releases from all of my grasping intentions,
and transforms into an offering to the God of the Poor in Spirit.
I am now open to receive His heart.
And certainly, He does not fail to hear the voices of his hurting children.

CONTEST TIME

2009-05-06T12:00:00.000-07:00

I'm offering a contest:

A Photo Shoot For your Mama!! Doesn't your mom deserve it???

Go to my Facebook page, Greater Works and
follow the rules on how to enter to win!!!

It's that easy breezy~

Lochlan King

2009-05-05T15:21:00.000-07:00

Press on.

2009-05-05T15:20:00.000-07:00

Here I am, asking questions out loud that have rolled around in my head since the time I was old enough to think. Questions that seem to be “shaking things up” for people in my life, questions that make people think for themselves.

I’m in my late 20's, and have had what most people would say was a “semi-typical” life. I'm thankful for what I've had....it may have not been the best or the most healthy, but I'm still thankful. Three parents, one siblings, a public school education, some college, a marriage, three wonderful kiddos … and somehow I was taught to believe that life simply found a resting place and then if I was good would just slide on into eternity someday.

Wow.......thank the Lord for opening my eyes to see life in a real way, to understand more truths.......to not pretend I'm living in a fairytale any longer.

What I know now is that we are put on this earth to do much more than leave a carbon footprint. We have somehow been lulled into the thought that everything’s gonna magically be alright, and that if we’re good enough, or follow the right rules, there’s a great pot of gold (or crown) waiting just beyond the lines of life and death. We have become comfortable, mundane and really boring.

What I mean to say here is that things are really never what they seem. That this trip, this life, this gift was meant to be lived and shared and savored with people we love and who love us. That each day screams at us to live in the “presentality” of it all and that we do a disservice to everyone around us when we choose to do any less.

Now, instead of cruising through what I thought life would be, I am seizing every moment. I am laughing more at the good things, and crying more at the injustice. I am putting behind me the opinions of those I really don’t want to be like anyway, and focusing on those people that God has graciously given me to love — my children, my family, my friends who are not afraid to walk with me through the thick and thin and the fellow Christians who will walk into the unknown with me.

2009-04-30T23:09:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time....

2009-04-29T14:04:00.000-07:00

Earth Day 2009

2009-04-22T08:49:00.000-07:00

Happy Earth Day

Let this Earth Day be a reminder to try and live your life a little greener, here are a few suggestions:

1. Eat local and organic. Though it’s always summer somewhere, do we really need a jet flown peach from Chile? When possible shop local, buy organic, and support CSA’s. If cost is an issue buy conventional, but stay away from the 12 most sprayed.

2. Dump junk mail and catalogs. Each year over 100 million trees are massacred and turned into junk mail. Consequently, paper makes up 1/3 of the trash mountains in our bloated landfills. I don’t know about you, but I value oxygen (a trees main job) more than a Pottery Barn catalog or Sweepstake teaser. JunkBusters.com GreenDimes.com

3. Boycott plastic bags! Our planet wilts under the weight of plastic. . Sassy Chico Bags and Biobags are just a few of the many solutions.

4. Go paperless by paying bills online. It’s quicker and saves resources.

5. Bring your own reusable sippers! The average coffee or tea to-go cup takes about 100 years to breakdown, who knows if this is true or not but why would you want to make more trash? Why not bring your own travel mug, Klean Kanteen, or To-go ware to your favorite take-out joint?

6. Use natural skincare products. Your skin is your largest organ, so if you wouldn’t drink a cup of Jergen’s (for example) for goddess sake, don’t put it on your skin! Choose yummy, safe alternatives. Clueless about what brands are safe? Go to Skindeep.org

7. Use power strips and unplug appliances when not in use! Even when electronic devices are turned off, they still suck loads of energy.

8. Do you really need to let the water run when you’re brushing AND flossing your choppers? Nope.

When we care for the environment, we should be showing our deep respect for the Creator in much the same way we would admire the work of a great artist in a museum.

And for you bible thumpers:

* The whole creation — including the natural environment is the handiwork of God. (Genesis 1:1-2:2)
* Humans, made in the divine image, are to care for the earth. (Genesis 2:15)

Happy Easter

2009-04-12T17:14:00.000-07:00

This Easter, today, I suggest we consider that the theological theory of Jesus dying because He had to somehow take on the sins of the world does nothing but reinforce these betrayals and feed their ferocity. Instead, His was a life and unique insight into God’s Love that I feel is found nowhere as clearly, at least for myself. We are in the position during this Easter to celebrate a life lived absolutely Transparent to the Transcendent and, more importantly, it was a life we were called to live by Jesus himself, again and again. A life of Love.

Christ is the moment of interface between the human and the Divine in each of our lives, that which Jesus called us to have the courage, wisdom and drive to accomplish for ourselves, here and now, with God’s every blowing breezes of Love and Grace.

This remarkable event, the life and teaching of Jesus, was lived from a center so strong, so unshakable. Where "life" told Jesus (as it often tells us), “No!” and yet God tells us, “Yes.” That, my friends, is the true message of Easter.

When we try to figure it all out we can find ourselves trapped in any number of blind alleys. What Jesus said, is that at some point it all becomes meaningless except for one thing — Divine Love.

That, and not a theory or a bureaucracy or a dogma is what will carry us on into the unknown lands.

Happy Easter ~

2009-04-11T10:22:00.000-07:00

Like an unassuming breeze, steady, confident, inconspicuous.

I see rhythm, I can hear it too.

I see it more than I hear it. Or maybe I feel it. In fact, I can almost taste it. It’s like this strange familiarity in a land that isn’t my own just yet. Like a memory of a dream that I’d forgotten, like laying in bed, just waking up and trying really hard to remember what it was about. It makes me feel bold, but timid. It’s like I feel like I could pen a million words, but then stare at a blank page with nothing to say.

A steady rhythm driving.
A rhythm far beyond.
A rhythm deep within.
A song that all creation knows…and sings along.

Who we are...
Breathe in the Maker of the stars

Good Friday

2009-04-10T08:26:00.001-07:00

What makes this day good?

If you have ever believed that love inevitably leads to betrayal
this day says it doesn’t.

If you have ever believed that some people are unlovable, irredeemable
this day says they aren’t.

If you have ever believed that there is a limit to forgiveness
this day says there isn’t.

If you have ever believed you aren’t worth saving
this day says you are.

If you have ever believed that you don’t deserve freedom
this day says you do.

If you have ever believed that fear, anger, hate and despair will always win
this day says they won’t.

And this day, Good Friday is good for you.

2009-04-09T16:12:00.001-07:00

I am learning more deeply of the forever loneliness that walks alongside every human.

Birthed alone, we arrive with huge singular souls knit into tiny singular bodies. Wide, bottomless eyes that seek to know, but cannot. And no matter whose human heart beats loudly for this baby, whose smile opens broadly for this baby, or whose eyes carefully track this baby, her steps must be walked out with her own muscles and her own feet. Even when in the warmth of community it is still only you, reaching out from your own insides to strange outsides, hoping to be received.
And on this day, what I want is to hear my name spoken by other lips, and feel my movements traced by other eyes. To unlearn sadness in solitude. To know myself. To sense again, adventure in His possibilities for me.

Tell me my story once more, Father.

How to Dream.

2009-04-07T18:26:00.001-07:00

It seems as though, lately, I have been learning how to dream again. I find myself surrounded by a bunch of wide-eyed dreamers, passionate about their purposes and discovering the path that God has for them. Up until recently, I was afraid to let my dreams be too big. It seemed like they were limited to some self-imposed reality...a cautious approach, to say the least. Then a friend said something that changed the way I thought.

"Who is the Maker of your dreams Who put them inside you?"

God has woven these dreams into our DNA. They are buried deep in our hearts, but are revealed in due season. I have seen things come about that I would never have imagined in my own life and in the lives of people around me. Some may write it off as the enthusiasm that often marks our years as twentysomethings. I beg to differ. I know plenty of people that are just as passionate now as they were when they were my age. God never stops instilling His passion and love into us...so why should we stop responding? If anything, the "spark of the divine" should turn into a blaze, growing stronger with each passing year in our lives.

I would like to say I have arrived, but I really have not. I am learning. I am growing. I am stumbling through it. But somehow, in His infinite grace, He is teaching me how to walk. How to breathe. How to dwell.

How to dream.

Dear 1980's

2009-04-06T22:06:00.000-07:00

I thought we split up for good, oh, I guess officially it was 20 years ago. We agreed it was for the best and that we were both ready to move on.

So, I was kind of surprised to see you at the mall on Saturday. After all this time! At first it was like, "Oh, hi, 1980s. Um, how have you been? What brings you here?" It was a little awkward and weird and we were both trying to play it cool, but I'll admit that I felt a little bit of nostalgia.

I suddenly began to remember some of the good times we shared. I got Kajagoogoo stuck in my head. Oh, and remember Duran Duran and Erasure? A-Ha? ABC? Oh, and that one afternoon we watched "The Breakfast Club" and raided the pantry, and then we braided each other's hair? Or when we snuck a viewing of "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun"? Don't you remember how my mom wouldn't let me see it? She refused to believe that girls could just simply want to have some good old-fashioned fun and not be up to no good. I got around that by doing what I always did when things were forbidden: doing them anyway, just sneakier.

We had good times, 1980s. We did. I won't say it was all bad. You did kind of overstay your welcome a little, but I guess that was us both just kind of hoping that it would go back to the way it was, when things were simple and happier. When John Hughes movies didn't star Macauley Culkin. When posters from Tiger Beat and Bop plastered the walls and ceiling of every girl's bedroom. When wearing Esprit made you awesome. When every song on the radio was better than the last, and you couldn't resist the urge to turn the knob louder and louder until one more turn to the right would blow out the speakers.

I'm kind of amazed at how little you've changed. You look just like you did back then! Of course, this would be a bigger compliment if you hadn't looked like a butt.

Anyway, we had a nice chat, right? We reminisced, we laughed and before things got a little too deep, I said I was late for a meeting with 2006. But then you started doing that thing, where you got all clingy. You followed me everywhere I went, shouting, "LOVE ME! I'M BACK! I'M NEVER LEAVING AGAIN! IT'LL BE DIFFERENT THIS TIME, I SWEAR IT!" J. Crew, H&M, Hecht's, Nordstrom. You were all over the place. It was pathetic! And I can't walk very fast right now, so you were totally keeping pace with me. It was pretty hard to pretend like I didn't know you.

God, and you were kind of embarrassing with that big belt slung low on your hips and that shirt that offered no support and kind of bloused over the waist, giving the illusion of someone needing a serious tummy tuck. And honey, those horizontal stripes were doing you no favors. Do I need to address your leggings and jelly shoes? I guess I should be thankful that you weren't leaving the tantalizing aroma of Love's Baby Soft in your wake, but it can't be too far behind. But I'm pretty sure I caught a whiff of Jean Natè body splash. I always wondered who still wore that stuff.

I finally lost you in Ann Taylor Loft, when I saw you give up and run off with that girl in the sweater with the V-neck that went down to her thighs, Jordache jeans and Candie's shoes. I wonder if she knows what she's in for? I hope you two will be very happy together, and that our paths never, ever cross again. But somehow, I fear this isn't going to be the last time.

Don't make me get a restraining order.

5th grade math partner....

2009-03-30T08:35:00.000-07:00

EEG's, the new rage!

2009-03-26T16:30:00.000-07:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2009-03-16T23:40:00.000-07:00

2009-03-15T00:55:00.000-07:00

THE AWAKENING

2009-03-13T13:06:00.001-07:00

A time comes in your life when you finally get it...when, in the midst of
all your fears and insanity, you stop dead in your tracks and somewhere the
voice inside your head cries out - ENOUGH!

Enough fighting and crying or struggling to hold on. And, like a child
quieting down after a blind tantrum, your sobs begin to subside, you shudder
once or twice, you blink back your tears and begin to look at the world
through new eyes.

This is your awakening.

You realize it's time to stop hoping and waiting for something to
change...or for happiness, safety and security to come galloping over the
next horizon.

You come to terms with the fact that neither of you is Prince Charming or
Cinderella and that in the real world there aren't always fairy tale endings
(or beginnings for that matter) and that any guarantee of "happily ever
after" must begin with you...and in the process a sense of serenity is born
of acceptance.

You awaken to the fact that you are not perfect and that not everyone will
always love, appreciate or approve of who or what you are ... and that's OK.

They are entitled to their own views and opinions.

And you learn the importance of loving and championing yourself...and in the
process a sense of new found confidence is born of self-approval.

You stop complaining and blaming other people for the things they did to you
(or didn't do for you) and you learn that the only thing you can really
count on is the unexpected.

You learn that people don't always say what they mean or mean what they say
and that not everyone will always be there for you and that it's not always
about you.

So, you learn to stand on your own and to take care of yourself...and in the
process a sense of safety and security is born of self-reliance.

You stop judging and pointing fingers and you begin to accept people as they
are and to overlook their shortcomings and human frailties..and in the
process a sense of peace and contentment is born of forgiveness.

You realize that much of the way you view yourself, and the world around
you, is as a result of all the messages and opinions that have been
ingrained into your psyche.

And you begin to sift through all the junk you've been fed about how you
should behave, how you should look, how much you should weigh, what you
should wear, what you should do for a living, how much money you should
make, what you should drive, how and where you should live, who you should
marry, the importance of having and raising children, and what you owe your
parents, family, and friends.

You learn to open up to new worlds and different points of view.

And you begin reassessing and redefining who you are and what you really
stand for.

You learn the difference between wanting and needing and you begin to
discard the doctrines and values you've outgrown, or should never have
bought into to begin with ... and in the process you learn to go with your
instincts.

You learn that it is truly in giving that we receive.

And that there is power and glory in creating and contributing and you stop
maneuvering through life merely as a "consumer" looking for your next fix.

You learn that principles such as honesty and integrity are not the outdated
ideals of a bygone era but the mortar that holds together the foundation
upon which you must build a life.

You learn that you don't know everything, it's not your job to save the
world and that you can't teach a pig to sing.

You learn to distinguish between guilt and responsibility and the importance
of setting boundaries and learning to say NO.

You learn that the only cross to bear is the one you choose to carry and
that martyrs get burned at the stake.

Then you learn about love.

How to love, how much to give in love, when to stop giving and when to walk
away.

You learn to look at relationships as they really are and not as you would
have them be.

You stop trying to control people, situations and outcomes.

And you learn that alone does not mean lonely.

You also stop working so hard at putting your feelings aside, smoothing
things over and ignoring your needs.

You learn that feelings of entitlement are perfectly OK....and that it is
your right to want things and to ask for the things you want ... and that
sometimes it is necessary to make demands.

You come to the realization that you deserve to be treated with love,
kindness, sensitivity and respect and you won't settle for less.

And you learn that your body really is your temple.

And you begin to care for it and treat it with respect.

You begin to eat a balanced diet, drink more water, and take more time to
exercise.

You learn that being tired fuels doubt, fear, and uncertainty and so you
take more time to rest.

And, just as food fuels the body, laughter fuels our soul.

So you take more time to laugh and to play.

You learn that, for the most part, you get in life what you believe you
deserve...and that much of life truly is a self-fulfilling prophecy.

You learn that anything worth achieving is worth working for and that
wishing for something to happen is different than working toward making it
happen.

More importantly, you learn that in order to achieve success you need
direction, discipline and perseverance.

You also learn that no one can do it all alone...and that it's OK to risk
asking for help.

You learn the only thing you must truly fear is the greatest robber baron of
all: FEAR itself.

You learn to step right into and through your fears because you know that
whatever happens you can handle it and to give in to fear is to give away
the right to live life on your own terms.

And you learn to fight for your life and not to squander it living under a
cloud of impending doom.

You learn that life isn't always fair, you don't always get what you think
you deserve and that sometimes bad things happen to unsuspecting, good
people.

On these occasions you learn not to personalize things.

You learn that God isn't punishing you or failing to answer your prayers.

It's just life happening.

And you learn to deal with evil in its most primal state - the ego.

You learn that negative feelings such as anger, envy and resentment must be
understood and redirected or they will suffocate the life out of you and
poison the universe that surrounds you.

You learn to admit when you are wrong and to build bridges instead of walls.

You learn to be thankful and to take comfort in many of the simple things we
take for granted, things that millions of people upon the earth can only
dream about: a full refrigerator, clean running water, a soft warm bed, a
long hot shower.

Slowly, you begin to take responsibility for yourself by yourself and you
make yourself a promise to never betray yourself and to never, ever settle
for less than your heart's desire.

And you hang a wind chime outside your window so you can listen to the wind.

And you make it a point to keep smiling, to keep trusting, and to stay open
to every wonderful possibility.

Finally, with courage in your heart and God by your side you take a stand,
you take a deep breath, and you begin to design the life you want to live as
best you can.

-- Author Unknown

My Sweetie Peetie

2009-03-09T14:48:00.000-07:00

WORD

2009-02-14T15:07:00.001-08:00

word [wurd] –noun 1. a unit of language, consisting of one or more spoken SOUNDS or their written representation, that functions as a principal carrier of MEANING. 2. speech or talk: to express one's EMOTION in words; Words mean little when action is called for. 3. the text or lyrics of a song as distinguished from the MUSIC. 4. (initial capital letter) Also called the Word, the Word of GOD.

I will be getting tested for Multiple Sclerosis.

2009-02-11T19:30:00.000-08:00

I can't imagine why I would feel any hesitation about having a needle longer than this one being stuck in my spine?

I mean it could be fun right?

And even more fun than that is the idea of them puncturing my spinal cord and collecting some of my spinal fluid.

I mean again who doesn't want this to happen to them?

I'm feeling very privileged at the moment, really I wont lie. I'm downright ecstatic!

I joke.

I'm scared.

Self Portrait

2009-02-10T19:33:00.000-08:00

I believe...

2009-02-05T15:49:00.000-08:00

I believe in the making of things,
whether it's photographs or paintings,
poems or recipes, life or blankets,
sweaters or songs.

In honor of seeing a neurologist in a few short hours...

2009-02-04T12:03:00.000-08:00

In honor of my baby boy's 7th Birthday this Friday.

2009-02-03T00:24:00.000-08:00

My Son, Asleep on the job!

2009-02-01T13:05:00.000-08:00

100 things about me and more...

2009-01-30T10:53:00.000-08:00

1. I am passionate about knowledge.
2. I scored a 1440 on my SAT’s in high school.
3. I don’t think that makes me any smarter than the next person.
4. I’m a Christ Follower.
5. I think of my grandmother almost everyday.
6. I’ve lived in 5 states.
7. I believe in miracles.
8. I became a mother at age 19.
9. If you can make me laugh, you’re halfway to earning my devotion.
10. I will always treat your children as I do my own.
11. That also means I will send them home if they get out of hand.
12. I was always a “good girl” growing up.
13. I cry almost daily thinking about my kids growing up.
14. I hate watching the news.
15. I feel like most of the time I settle for less than best in my life.
16. I like things to be in a clean and orderly manner.
17. I think I know too many people who are crazy.
18. I’m love writing.
19. I’ve been to India.
20. I love getting a bargain, not an exaggeration, I really love it!
21. I like Martha Stewart and her crafty ways.
22. I have way too many black clothes and shoes.
23. I think a lot of people are selfish, including me.
24. I judge people way too much (I’m trying to work on this).
25. I aspire to be a follower of Christ’s example of love.
26. I am constantly reminded of my human failings.
27. I can talk and talk and talk.
28. I think that’s because my brain never stops working and then it spews out.
29. I love to people watch at airports.
30. I believe in the power of love to bring about change.
31. I haven't given up on my dreams.
32. I tend to wish I could be something more in life.
33. I try really hard to be a good mom.
34. I enjoy reading.
35. I will take pictures of just about anything.
36. I use to be fat.
37. I’m afraid of being fat.
38. I’m an honest person.
39. I’m thankful that we were created to love and be loved.
40. I don’t mind admitting that I’m wrong, but I rarely am. ;)
41. I do love being able to laugh at myself.
42. I vote.
43. I've had a broken heart.
44. I hope.
45. I wish I had about 5 do-overs in life.
46. I enjoy swimming.
47. I had a VBAC and I’m very thankful for it.
48. I love babies.
49. I don't know how to French braid hair.
50. I prefer smooth peanut butter.
51. I'd like to learn to play the piano someday.
52. I’m allergic to cats.
53. The little things in life usually impress me the most.
54. I am a perfectionist.
55. I don’t like to ask for help.
56. I wanted to become an internal medicine doctor specializing in infectious diseases.
57. I don’t want that now.
58. I can’t whistle.
59. I get irritated waiting for people.
60. I don’t like the way my voice sounds.
61. I want to be an organ donor when I die.
62. I can cry really easily.
63. I love the way a hug can make the moment better.
64. I have no musical abilities.
65. I love organizing things.
66. I think everyone should use their brains more.
67. I enjoy helping friends pick out new clothes.
68. I talk to my dad on the phone every Saturday.
69. I get bored easily.
70. I believe in friendships that can last a lifetime.
71. I love Mexican food.
72. I don’t really like having my picture taken.
73. I prefer to write with black ink over blue.
74. I like unexpected surprises.
75. I always have to go pee during a game of hide & seek.
76. I enjoy eating chips and salsa and do it at least once a week.
77. I love sleeping under the stars.
78. I find it amusing to sometimes buck the system.
79. All my clothes hang on wooden hangers.
80. I hate being put on hold.
81. I do believe that we learn something new everyday.
82. I want to go on a hot air balloon ride.
83. I want to be cremated when I die, but not before.
84. I'm chronically early.
85. I fear failure, mostly failure as a parent.
86. I have been known to disappoint people.
87. I can be obsessive-compulsive at times.
88. This OCD is most obvious when at a table….God help you if you disturb my place setting.
89. I’m not afraid of dying… I’d just like a little bit of advance notice.
90. I’ve always had a thing for office & school supplies.
91. I loathe grocery shopping.
92. Hearing loss runs in my family and so does cancer.
93. Oddly enough I’m more afraid of the hearing loss.
94. I’m not a “fan” of celebrities, famous people or even the pope. Just God.
95. I take great pleasure in refilling things, like salt shakers and liquid hand soap dispensers.
96. I’m lazy about washing my face at night & freaked out about wrinkles.
97. I heart my mom big time.
98. I'm a little insane about cutting my toenails.
99. I’m a very loving and compassionate person.
100. I love the way looking at old photos can make one feel, that's why I love photography so much.
101. Really, I love the way looking at old photos can make one feel, that's why I love photography so much.
102. I'm a Photographer.Sometimes Writer. Internet Geek.
103. Ive loved the song True Colours since 1985 (I was 5) the words speak to me now more than ever.
104. I could make a meal out of bread, olive oil and a good balsamic vinegar.
105. God, music and lyrics are my heart songs.
106. I don't have any memories of people picking on me or being mean to me growing up. I'm thankful.
107. My heart bleeds for those that do, so I work hard to teach my children love and kindness.
108. While I adore shopping online, I refuse to buy without a coupon and free shipping.
109. I believe that how people treat us good or bad are but only stepping stones.
110. I answer to God alone, for He is the only one who really knows my heart.
111. I love the sounds of children laughing, especially my own.
112. I don't think I usually make a good first impression, or even second one for that matter.
113. I sometimes wonder how many of my close friends really know who I am inside.
114. I have been hurt very deeply by a group of people I thought honestly carded about me.
115. I'm not sure I will fully get over the pain and sadness that has created inside of me.
116. I always look out for the underdog.
117. I got in a fight with a boy in high school. He said he was glad my friend had just died, I lost it.
118. I wish that Jessica was Hunter's 1st grade teacher, they are both dramatic in a good way.
119. I've been to 11% of the world, that doesn't sounds to impressive, but it's more than you'd think.
120. I've traveled to 10 different countries and have been all over the US, and plan on more.
121. My goal is to live in Costa Rica and be a part of Funda Vida, if only for a short time.
122. My mom and I have been chatting online almost every night for about 10 years now.
123. I'm writing a Bucket List.
124. I'm also writing a book.
125. In middle school I would sit in a large culvert under South Side Rd. and read.
126. My favorite book of the moment is "The Shack"
127. I would never write the Bible as my favorite book to sounds spiritual. So not me.
128. I love God with all my being, but very much dislike theology and religion.
129. I hope people dont place me in a category with most Christians, if so I'm sad to say I would be ashamed.
130. I try to think outside the box.
131. I have great memories with friends growing up and cherish each of them, we helped in shaping each other into fine people. I don't know of one I'm not proud of.
132. I've learned that some people just don't know how to love and that doesn't mean they dont want to, they just haven't learn how.
133. with that I've learned my biggest lesson in forgiveness.
134. I love that we have dance competitions at my house before bed time.
135. Having fun with my kids is one of my greatest pleasures.
136. I have this fear that people wont remember me, and sometimes I avoid them so it won't be an uncomfortable situation.
137. I love hiking into natural hot springs.
138. I hate, hate, hate cancer.
139. I was told once that I care about people 10x more than they care about me. I would love to get that idea out of my mind. It hurts.
140. I love three special young ladies as if they were my own daughters and they know it!
141. I make body cast of pregnant women.
142. Yes, I touch their boobs, I hate when people ask me that. Get over it already.
143. I was a breastfeeding counselor for WIC, perhaps I like boobs ;)
144. I love to dance and I'm currently learning the west coast swing.
145. I adore family naps, my 2 sons and my little lady all snuggled up in the same bed, I know we wont fit forever.
146. I love the smell of tobacco pipes.
147. I collect quotes.
148. I will never collect chachkeys, knickknacks, whatever it is you want to call them.
149. I pray a lot.

2009-01-23T11:28:00.000-08:00

Photographer.
Sometimes Writer.
Internet Geek.
Bursting at the seams with Love.

2009-01-21T18:42:00.000-08:00

An eventful day...

2009-01-20T17:13:00.001-08:00

Awaking with the assurance that that today would be both historic and glorious, I was filled with hope.

Hope in my God, hope in my country and hope in a man named Barack Obama.

Today, was the inauguration of the 44th President of the United States of America. The dawn of a new era, the fulfillment of hopes and dreams. A day when all Americans should be proud that history is being made in a profoundly important way.

We must walk together and see the human dignity that our founding fathers proclaimed. Lincoln reminded those at Gettyburg that we were (and are) a country “conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.”

We must recognize our own dignity and the dignity of our neighbors. People, see the equality, see how we are one as a human race. Live in a way that demonstrates our connectedness to one another.

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

Me waiting for my second MRI in 24 hours, don't I look hopeful?

(all pictures today were taken with my lovely Samsung Instinct phone)

Today I also fell in love with the adorable Rev. Joseph Lowery,
who at age 87 is quite the whipper snapper.
Hear him below deliver the Inauguration benediction for President Obama~

We are not just united and standing,
We are now United and Standing for Something!

2009-01-17T14:05:00.000-08:00

Saxophone Man

2009-01-13T10:48:00.000-08:00

A good read...

2009-01-13T08:40:00.000-08:00

Thirty inspiring women share the enduring
lessons they have learned from the defining moments of their lives.

Life rarely works out exactly as we plan. Rejection by a cherished friend, the onset of an unexpected illness, struggle with body image and self-perception -- these experiences may challenge us, but our triumphs come to define us. We find comfort, joy, tears, and laughter in the wisdom, insight, and empathy we gain.

In Note to Self, thirty dynamic women share their inspirational stories with writer, director, and television and film producer Andrea Buchanan. Celebrities such as Grammy Award-winning rock star Sheryl Crow and Emmy Award-winning actress Camryn Manheim join stuntwoman Stacy Courtney, football player Katie Hnida, seventy- year-old HIV-positive grandmother Beverly London, and alcoholic-turned-interventionist Candy Finnigan to reflect on their unforgettable stories of redemption. Punctuated by tears and laughter, these poignant tales are full of incredible strength, invaluable knowledge, insurmountable odds, helpful survival instincts, amazing willpower, humiliation -- sometimes on a national level -- and a hefty dose of humor.

Truth

2009-01-10T11:31:00.000-08:00

The hero of my tale -
whom I love with all the power of my soul,
whom I have tried to portray in all his beauty,
who has been,
is,
and will be beautiful -
is Truth

Hope of The Apollo Sting Trio

2009-01-09T11:17:00.001-08:00

The Retro Brothers

2009-01-05T16:51:00.000-08:00

Family...

2008-12-30T14:14:00.000-08:00

My Mother & My Daughter

Music, oh how I love music.....

2008-12-29T11:09:00.000-08:00

I've downloaded 200 hundred songs this morning, I may be in need of some serious help....

Did you know that Amazon is offering the top albums of 2008 for $5 each? That’s fifty popular albums from the past year, all available as MP3 downloads for just $5.

If you got a new iPod or Zune or whatever for the holidays, or you already had one...this is your chance to stock it up with new music on the cheap!

I highly recommend She & Him, one of my favs of the day!!!

Enjoy music, enjoy life!

My Friday night adventure got me this...

2008-12-16T21:26:00.000-08:00

Live Entertainment and more...

2008-12-11T20:05:00.000-08:00

I've added a new link to the side bar in case you haven't already noticed, it's the Rogue and Poet link which takes you to a great site created by a man named John. Although I've never met John in person, I have heard nothing but outstanding things about him.

John created Rogue and Poet with the desire to showcase local artists, galleries, musicians, authors, crafters and even a few photographers.

John's been quoted writing, "I want people to come to my site when they are wondering what to do or where to go in the Rogue Valley for entertainment. "

So I did just that!

I will be hanging out this Friday night at the G Street Bar & Grill, soaking in the rockin tunes of The Retro Brothers one of my favorite local bands.

Be sure to check out the site and support some of our local artists!

what ya say we both go and seize the day...

2008-12-09T10:52:00.000-08:00

"Change Your Mind"

Hey, Hey
Did you ever think
There might be another way
To just feel better,
Just feel better about today

Oh no-
If you never want to have
To turn and go away
You might feel better,
Might feel better if you stay

Yeah yeah
I bet you haven't heard
A word I've said
Yeah yeah
If you've had enough
Of all your tryin'
Just give up
The state of mind you're in:

If you want to be somebody else,
If you're tired of fighting battles with yourself
If you want to be somebody else
Change your mind...

Hey hey-
Have you ever danced in the rain
Or thanked the sun
Just for shining- just for shining
Or the sea?
Oh no- take it all in
The world's a show
And yeah, you look much better,
Look much better when you glow

Hey hey-
what ya say
We both go and seize the day
'cause what's your hurry
what's your hurry anyway

All I want for Christmas is....

2008-11-24T08:35:00.000-08:00

Joy, Happiness and a Black Bird Fly......

Check out the Black Bird Fly site to find out more about this creation I'm drooling over.

It's only up for purchase at two locations in the US.

To purchase it (possibly for me, hint hint) go to dijitalfix for the best price, only $130 and free shipping.

Hey you, get up, get off your booty and.....

2008-11-04T10:21:00.000-08:00

VOTE!!!

Nov 4th, Do Your Part and VOTE!!

2008-10-29T10:42:00.001-07:00

Miss Love

2008-06-23T18:05:00.000-07:00

2008-04-29T16:09:00.000-07:00

Baby Inside...

2008-04-17T07:41:00.000-07:00

Brooke Love

2008-04-07T19:43:00.000-07:00

Butterfly Blue...

2008-04-05T17:43:00.001-07:00

Homesick

2008-04-04T15:09:00.000-07:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day...

2008-03-17T16:02:00.000-07:00

Stranger number 2

2008-03-15T12:59:00.000-07:00

click to enlarge

2008-03-10T22:59:00.000-07:00

My Teach...

2008-03-09T10:56:00.000-07:00

click on all pictures to enlarge

You can also find him here:

Retro Brothers

or

Seedling Productions

Lady Koda...

2008-03-09T10:51:00.000-07:00

Here is one of the cutest puppy I've ever seen:

Stranger number 1...

2008-03-08T21:34:00.000-08:00

Meet Juan my first Stranger...

This afternoon I met Juan. He was tending the bar at a lovely Mexican Restaurant on the river. I didn't find out much about him except that he is originally from Guadalajara, Mexico. He seemed to be enjoying himself and was happy to help me out on my new little project.

Thanks Juan!!

100 Strangers...

2008-03-07T09:23:00.000-08:00

As if my life isn't busy enough... I've decided to branch out on a new project called "100 Strangers". The 100 Strangers project is a
Flickr group dedicated to taking street portraits, the challenge is to take 100 portraits of total strangers.

I was asked to be apart of this group by a complete stranger and in agreeing to do this project I've already made a new friend. I'm hoping for many other opportunities to meet new people along the way...Not to just snap a picture of them, but to really show an interest in their lives....To learn their names, where their from, and hopefully even hear a few stories about their journey in life.

I plan to meet people:

on the street
in restaurants
in stores
at parks
during summer playgroups
on trips away from home
etc...

Challenge description:

Stop people by the street, talk with them, ask if you can take a portrait. Post the picture to Flickr and 100 strangers pool and your blog. Try to get an idea who they are. Write a caption that tells something about the person in portrait. Describe how you got the photo. Don't post archive photos. Get out on the streets to take new ones. Keep on practicing. Don't try to get all 100 pictures during one session, but try to find different people in different locations. Try to get a wide array of portraits: rich, poor, white, black, working, doing sports, etc.

So If your interested in seeing my progress, check back to this blog often. I will also be using this blog to display my business photography and specials as well. I hope you enjoy following me on my new journey!

Blessings~