2011 Is Waiting at The Door

2011 is at the door...

Rembember,

Life is short. 

Break the rules.

Forgive quickly.

Love truly.

Laugh uncontrollably

and

Never regret anything that made you smile.

The 2011 New and Improved Libra

As I was checking my email, Yahoo kindly reminded me of my new year horoscope.  I'd agree on many of their points.  My how entertaining horoscopes can be at times.

Libra

9/23 – 10/22

Year 2011 Overview

Oh the lessons you have endured over the course of 2010. You're not the same people-pleasing darling you were a mere 12 months ago. On the contrary darling -- you are in the midst of a powerful process of cultivating the kind of backbone that makes greatness. Thanks to big daddy Saturn you're learning your lessons well in relinquishing laziness, strengthening discipline, and realizing your authority. You're taking yourself more seriously in the arenas where it matters most. (Read: career and getting paid what you're worth.)

Relationships bring plenty of passion, drama and unexpected plot twists especially during the spring. By the time May rolls around you'll be dealing with an unprecedented amount of planetary energy firing up your relationship sector. With six planets including Venus, your ruler and Jupiter, the planet of abundance lining up in your partnership sector you'll be anything but lonely. The challenge lies in staying true to your own needs without getting lost in the persuasive me-me-me demands of your significant others.

Although some of Saturn's lessons will weigh in on a heavier note and perhaps depriving you of any former easy-outs or shortcuts, you have the uncanny ability to take it all in stride. There's something to be said for the inherent Libran laid-back approach to life's challenges. But under current planetary duress you may join the ranks of the stressful millions in your quest for regaining inner peace and unshakable equilibrium. Forever striving for that elusive balance, you're being put through the cosmic ringer when it comes to finding and holding your own with others. But you will get there Libra -- just you wait and see!

Year 2011 Career

You're still revamping your true vocational calling by cutting out all of the extraneous little side-jobs that once ate up so much of your precious time. The final days of the North Node in your career sector at the start of 2011 give you one last prodding to determine your own true north. No longer can you beg the question. Fence sitting in all aspects of your life is quickly becoming an extinct option, especially when it comes to your work. By nature you're indecisive but 2011 is the year for commitment. Put your doubts aside and just get on with what you do best: bringing more beauty and harmony to everything you touch. At the end of the day, you're an artist -- and that's that.

Although you may still be saddled with your fair share of responsibilities, you're finally able to see the forest through the trees and get a grip on the bigger career picture. You prefer any work that involves socializing, utilizing your creative and intellectual talents and of course flirting your heart out. This is why sitting behind an isolated desk doing menial tasks will just never rock your world. You're finally coming to terms with saying no to anything you consider a giant waste of your time, and you can thank Saturn for that. Adding to the planetary support to align work with soul, Neptune, the planet of glamour and dreams enters your work sector this April through August. It shall then again return in 2012 to stay for an extended 14-year ride, making sure that you absolutely adore what you do. This is a wonderful opportunity to find meaning and inspiration in your work.

Year 2011 Romantic

Co-dependency be damned, Libra! You've had your fill of accommodating every wish, desire and need of your mate to your own detriment. You're also finished with sugarcoating the truth and resorting to passive-aggressive tactics to get your needs met. For a sign that prefers balance, such extreme give and no take throws your scales way off kilter. The imbalance can no longer be ignored or justified. The rules of the game have changed and you've learned to just say no. Saturn has been working hard on rebalancing the karmic scales and forcing you to draw some serious lines in order to regain important equilibrium in your partnerships. Relationships continue to be a major priority this year Libra, but topping this list is the relationship you have with number one. Falling in love with yourself and being true to your needs is no longer a luxury but a dire necessity.

You've survived enough painful romantic disillusionments to last you a lifetime during Neptune's spell in your romantic sector over the past fourteen years. Of course falling in love certainly has it's high points but the crash after the reality check gets to be too much after enough heart-break repeats. The good news is that Neptune leaves your romantic sector for good allowing you to once again trust your perceptions when choosing your match. Love is especially in the air when Venus enters Libra in late September and early October, just in time to guarantee a wonderfully amorous birthday season.

One FINE Dinner

Tonight was the annual Fine Living Lancaster Holiday Dinner.  What a great time we all had.  A big thanks to Mark, my editor, as well as the Stockyard for a tasty meal all around.  I'm truly blessed to be surrounded by such great people in the working world.  Thanks to all!

My New Baby

She is so beautiful I can hardly stand it!  Twenty seven inches of pure joy!

First Family Portrait

Last week I met Zach and his family for a small family portrait.  It was the first time they had ever had pictures done, due to Zach's illness, so they were super excited for this event.  All three of them did wonderful.  It was such a pleasure being able to spend time with them.  Zach, I hope you feel better soon!!!!

New Mac?

Well, it's finally come, time to update my computer.  When I went into the store the other day and talked to the representative, I laughed when he told me that my Mac was a vintage model.  At only five years old, its ancient in computer years and therefore may not be fixable.(the power cord tip broke inside the computer)  It looks like a new mac may be in my future, but who knows.  I'm still waiting for the call to see if anything can be fixed for the time being.  After all, this is the first time I've had anything go wrong and it works like brand new!

Merry Christmas

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and holiday season.  Hope, Love and Cheer from our home to yours!

You'll shoot your eye out!

Classic.

Eve of Christmas Eve

In keeping with the laid back Christmas spirit this year,(no decorations or cards), I left my shopping until the last minute. I have officially finished all present buying today, eve of Christmas eve, leaving me one day to wrap everything. This itself is quite a task so keep your fingers crossed that I have time to accomplish all the last minute errands that seem to pop up. Happy wrapping to all the Santas out there.

Twice as Nice

I had the strangest thing happen today. I was browsing the Hallmark store and found the best quote and following that hours later found the same quote on a necklace charm that a friend was buying. I absolutely loved the quote but had never heard it before. It must mean something if I saw it twice today in two random places I usually never frequent. It suits me and my life well.

"Life isn't about finding yourself. It's about creating yourself."

Redneck Christmas

I can totally get away with making fun of rednecks since I grew up in Dauphin and got harrassed for it from K-12.  So if anyone is offended, I appologize.  Last night we went for ice cream, in 30 degree weather, like a bunch of crazies, but the real story began when I walked in to a local ice cream shop.  While eating all I could do was soak in my redneck surroundings and laugh at how ridiculous it looked.  Christmas threw up inside this store.  It was awful.  So, due to the computer issue I am having, I had to come up with a great post today that needed no pictures, only a great imagination, hense Redneck Christmas was born.

1.  You know you're a redneck when you hang stuffed Rudolph and Frosty from your ceiling with yarn to decorate.
2.  You know you're a redneck when you use your practice 3D deer archery targets as reindeer for Santa's sleigh in your front yard.
3.  You know you're a redneck when you have shot gun shells strung on lights around the Christmas tree


YES, I have seen all of these things in real life.  I only wish you could experience a true Redneck Christmas of your own!

My Appologies

Due to unforseen computer issues, any clients that have recently had photos taken, may have a slightly longer turn around time. I appologize ahead of time.

Daily Horoscope

Sometimes just for entertainment I read my daily horoscope. Today when I read it I found it quite interesting and figured I'd share.


You've gained more than you've lost. Maintain that perspective today and be proud.

A Big Thanks

Tonight I was lucky to shoot an Army ball that my brother in law took part in.  It was a good time and I definitely couldn't have done it without the help of my hubby.  If it wasn't for his support I wouldn't have Kate Greenawalt Photography.  So for all those times that I don't say thank you enough,  a big thanks to him.  While we were still dressed nice we took a quick shot, something we don't nearly do enough of anymore.

Repeat Customers Are the BEST

One thing I love about my job is seeing the reaction when my clients see their photos for the first time.  Miss L took part in my boudoir marathon last month and had so much fun, she wanted to do another session.  She contacted me and we set it up very short notice but everything went off without a hitch.  When she saw her images she cried.  Its amazing to be able to make someone realize how beautiful they are.  Here is just one, since this shoot was a little bit more revealing than her last one.

ONE week Special

Purchase all gift certificates for half price this week only.  Great gift idea or last minute stocking stuffer.  Call today to save!  Gift cards start at only $25 for a $50 value.

Say Hello To My Little Friends...

Just when I thought I was going to make it through one Christmas season without getting sick, I open my mouth and insert foot.  Needless to say, I've found three best friends this week.

Braydon Part 2

Bray was quite the interesting this time around.  He is so much more mobile this year it's crazy.

All three together!

                                               A quick glance before taking off to run.

Mommy and Bray 

                                                               Daddy and Bray running

Finally slowing down...

Braydon's Second Christmas

It seems like just yesterday that I was meeting with Nicole to discuss maternity pictures and now here we are taking Bray's 2nd Christmas pictures already.  My how things sneak up on you.  Since it had briefly flurried the night before, we decided to do some fun pictures outside.  Here's just one for now.

The Tiger in Me

Sometimes my personality is best described as cold.  Because I may be strong willed, bull headed and determined, people often are thrown off and think that I am feisty and selfish.  This actually amuses me a little because deep down I'm such a people pleaser.  My exterior is sometimes hard to crack, but once you break through I promise I am the sweetest and most giving person you'll ever meet.  So imagine my response when Eric jokingly reminded me that there was a song about me....."There is a tiger in those tight fitting jeans."  I guess he does have a great point.  I am quite sassy, but I promise my roar is much worse than my bite.  I'm sure there are much worse things to be compared to other than a tiger....right?!

FaLaLaLa Lifetime

I'm embarrassed to admit it but I am secretly a sucker for lifetime movies.  They always seem to have the happily ever after endings we all love. Yes, they are corny, and yes, they are chick flicks, but I continually check the station to see if there are any new movies that I haven't watched.  Just my luck that during December they are featuring all the Christmas movies full of cheer and perfect endings.  So, as you read this I am probably probing the menu on FiOS to see what's playing...

#86 Accomplished

Last night was so much fun.  The four of us girls definitely missed our calling in life.  We have decided that we could photograph concerts full time.  After finding out we had total access and free reign anywhere on stage and backstage, I got a little star struck.  Although it was more of a teeny bopper concert, I did get to see Flo Rider, which was amazing!  I was literally less then 2 feet away and he made eye contact several times. haha  Leisa even got an embrace from him! Here is just one picture that I grabbed.

Jingle Ball

I'm so excited. Tonight I will be helping a fellow photographer shoot the 99.3 Kiss FM Jingle Ball.  I'll be able to go back stage and photograph all the performers.  It's going to be awesome.

Best Breakfast

Sunday morning instead of getting the usual for breakfast, I decided to splurge a bit.  When my order came out I couldn't help myself.  I had to snap a picture on my phone.  Yes, I ate an ice cream sundae on waffles for breakfast!  YUMMIE

Winter Poem

Some days I long to be at the beach, even if it is 30 degrees out.  This poem describes every detail so perfectly I can almost picture myself there.

Winter Seascape by John Betjeman

The sea runs back against itself
With scarcely time for breaking wave
To cannonade a slatey shelf
And thunder under in a cave.

Before the next can fully burst
The headwind, blowing harder still,
Smooths it to what it was at first -
A slowly rolling water-hill.

Against the breeze the breakers haste,
Against the tide their ridges run
And all the sea's a dappled waste
Criss-crossing underneath the sun.

Far down the beach the ripples drag
Blown backward, rearing from the shore,
And wailing gull and shrieking shag
Alone can pierce the ocean roar.

Unheard, a mongrel hound gives tongue,
Unheard are shouts of little boys;
What chance has any inland lung
Against this multi-water noise?

Here where the cliffs alone prevail
I stand exultant, neutral, free,
And from the cushion of the gale
Behold a huge consoling sea.

Mia Testarossa Hair and Tanning Salon

A big thanks to my sister in law,  Jenn, for helping me in the past with hair and makeup for a few shoots.  In return she asked me to take a promotional shot of her for her salon.  Thanks so much for everything Jenn!

Sad Irony

During my quest to accomplish my life list I have come to learn a lot about myself and people I know. It's during this important process that I have also learned that some of those people who should be supportive of me and my decisions, no matter what they may be, have been the ones to judge me the hardest. My message to them is that maybe the reason they feel like they don't know me any longer or that they think I have lost myself, is because they have had this perfect illusion of who I should be, but never was. I have grown strides this year and have accomplished many of the things I have dreamed about. I find it sadly ironic that when I am starting to finally feel like myself that people say that they don't even recognize me anymore. It's time for me to be me.

Small Addition

I faced my fears today and added a small addition and reminder of how inspired I am with my hopes and dreams in life.  While still in the shop, someone saw it and said it was so cute and dainty (just like me) lol.  I can now cross off #43.

A Great Day

Two awesome things happened today:
1.  My college wants to feature me in a local magazine due to my success as a photographer following graduation
2. I saw Love and Other Drugs

Can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

My Haunted House

According to several people from this area, my house was and is haunted.  Thankfully in the two plus years that I've lived here I haven't experienced anything too exciting.  With the addition of our fence I think the house looks even more like a creepy old house.  Tonight I quick snapped a picture of the in progress fence and house so that you all can see that it's starting to look like my own little fortress.  I can't wait until its finally finished so I don't have to take the dogs out for their early morning potty breaks, especially in the snow.

Quote of The Day

"We must be willing to let go of the life we have planned so as to have the life that is waiting for us."
            ~Joseph Campbell

Accomplishments

Lately I have been working hard to accomplish things that will allow me to find myself.  Along this journey I was able to cross two more things off from my list.  Thanks to some of my girlfriends I was able to cross off #26, a much needed girls weekend.  Today I have officially decided that I have learned to like running thus crossing off #69.  Since my race I have been unable to run because somewhere along the line I hurt my ankle.  I've given it a week to feel better so I've stayed away from running.  I can't believe these words are about to fly out of my mouth and onto this blog, BUT,  I MISS MY RUNS. Yes, I just said those horrible words.  I've come to enjoy my time running through the neighborhood and my trips to the gym to use the treadmill.  As of today I have started one item on the list that may be one of the most difficult things for me, no meat.  I've recently heard of this unique diet that will force me to eat more fruits and veggies www.rawissexy.com .  So I figure now is a good time as any to try and start my year without it entirely.  Wish me good luck!
Slowly but surely I am working on the Life List.  It may take me a while, but I will get there.  A few others are in the works but I'll have to wait to write about them.

Big City, Bigger Dreams

When I travel to a city I always get so excited. I secretly, well I guess it's not really a secret, yearn to live the big city dreams. It all feels so freeing and perfect in an odd way. Life is funny that way. When you find that you are the most settled you're the most restless. Maybe one day I'll find that photo job in the city but I'm sure by that time I'll be ready to settle for good. We always yearn for what we can't have. Leaving the city gets harder and harder everytime. So is Philly or NYC in the future?.....

Girls Getaway

So excited to go away with some of my girlfriends.  Leaving today for some fun in NYC.  Hopefully the weather stays nice and doesn't get too cold.  I'm sure it's nothing that a warm Starbucks can't fix.  Have a sunny Sunday everyone!

Shannon

This past weekend I had the pleasure of shooting some senior portraits of Shannon.  We spent most of the day in Hershey and then went to the west shore to grab a couple on the soccer field.  Here is just one for now.

Eat. Pray. Love.

Sometimes I laugh at the way things fall into my lap. I've had several of these moments this past week but the one that got me was this movie. As I watched it I totally understood this woman. My mother in law said she thought she was crazy and life just isn't like her life. I just laughed out of amusement. I think that Julia Roberts hit the nail on the head with this movie. Her character depicts what many real women feel and want but few take a chance for. It is food for thought. I felt like she really understood how someone can at times feel so lost but also have no reason to be. It's funny that life seems to present answers in the weirdest places and times. I seem to be proving more and more that life is a series a fate bound paths. I wish I just knew where mine was headed.

Thanksgiving

Happy Turkey Day to everyone!  I hope that everyone enjoys their time with family and friends today and eats way too much food.  Good luck to all the crazies that will be venturing out at midnight tonight to fight their way to sales.  Today marks the beginning of the holiday season and I unfortunately am not quite ready this year.  Usually this is one of my favorite times of year, but with all the stress of this year I'm not even ready to think holiday yet.
So take a few minutes today to thank those who mean something to you and be thankful that you are in a position to take part in such a huge feast since there are many people who will never experience this holiday season to its fullest.  Enjoy your turkey and shopping.  Let the countdown begin.

A Bundle of Joy Contest

Check out the facebook page today for details on the new contest!  It's sure to be a great event.  The more the merrier.

Mrs LJ

She was hilarious to shoot and she had stunning results.

Ripple Effect

It's funny that yesterday I blogged about making someone reflect on their own life and today I happened to look at a friend and client's blog and find that I had inspired her to create her own life list.  Her list is pretty amazing so if you get a chance please check out Mrs. Dully.  Speaking of lists, I'm steadily working on crossing things off my list so stay tuned for all of my adventures.

Breakfast Blog

My favorite meal of the day by far is breakfast.  I could eat it any time.  When I get the chance to go out and enjoy breakfast I get to relax and drink my coffee and allow myself to slow down long enough to get a break from everything.  Within the past year I have finally tried a new kind of egg that for 24 years I swore I would never try,  eggs benedict.  And let me just say, that it is amazing and quite a fascination of mine now.  Every time I order it I think of the movie Runaway Bride when Julia Roberts relates her real life problems to that of her egg choice.  She tells every new man she falls in love with that her favorite egg is which ever is their favorite, until she finally falls in love with none other than Richard Gere, who forces her to step back and figure herself out before anything else.  She tries every kind of way you could make an egg and finally finds her favorite, yes, as you probably may have guessed it, it is eggs benedict.  So, try something new today and you may just like it.  And for those of you who haven't seen this movie, it's a classic.
I was one time asked why I blog so frequently about my personal life on a blog that also functions as part of my business.  The answer to that question is easy for me.  This blog is a way for all of the people who read it to see a little bit more about me every day.  People come back to this blog on a daily basis just to see what happens in my life or what I have shot that day.  If people are interested in me, they'll be interested in my work.  I love what I do and I hope that this blog somewhere along the line pokes questions or allows people to reflect on themselves.  I hope it serves as a small piece of what is me.  I like to make people smile so I hope this little tid bit about your choice of eggs allows you to laugh at the obscurity of my blog and puts a smile on your face.  Life is always better if you can laugh at yourself and your ridiculousness.

Rothman 8K

Well it's now official. I finished the race and I beat my time goal. I feel great and I'm super happy with my results, although I'm not a sprinter, I am happy with the 46 minute time. Looking to roam the city a bit and then head home. Next year I'll be ready for the marathon!

Philadelphia

It's nice to finally lay down and veg in front of the tv. Too bad the sushi I picked up leaves a lot to be desired. Going to work a little and just hang out before the early morning big day.

Miss D

Miss D was so much fun.  She and Miss A are best friends!

Change of plans

Betrayal is often a painful reminder that you may be as alone as you feel. It looks as though this weekend trip will be made alone. It's a great thing that I enjoy a little time to myself.

Launch Party Tonight

The new magazine is finally printed and tonight its a night full of wine and good fun at the Marriott.  The November issue of Fine Living Lancaster is launching so I have tons of running around to do today before I have to get in my little dress and go! Looking forward to a great night full of laughs.

Miss A

Here's a fun one of Miss A.  She was full of laughs.

Change can be good

For a long time I hated change but as I get older I try to roll with the punches more often.  For fun I decided I'd try something different with my hair this time.  Change isn't so bad, it just sometimes takes a leap of faith.  I guess this could be said about something as simple as hair to something as big as life.  So, here's the final result...

One Week

Let the count down begin.  I have one week until the big race day.  I'm so excited but a little worried because my ankles have been hurting so bad.  I've resolved to running every other day as to not over use them so today I took the day off.  Tomorrow I'll hopefully go for a nice long run before coffee with a friend.  Looking forward to a semi day off today.  I finally am getting my hair done so thats a plus.  When I get home I plan on finishing the pictures from this week so within the next couple of days everyone will have some more pics to look at!

Lyla

Finally I was able to get through most of the images I have shot this week so here are some fun ones to share of Lyla!

Miss C

Another quick one to check out. I'm still weeding through all the images.

Thank You

I'm a strong believer in fate and I find that the people I choose to consider my friends always seem to know what will make me feel better.  After my life melt down, I created my list and the few people that read my blog and know me have made certain attempts to help me work on accomplishing these things.  My best friend surprised me last week, after knowing I was having a long week by taking me to a jewelry making class.  It's these small things that friends remember, only if you've said them once that make me realize I am beyond lucky to have the people I do in my life.  It's the conversations about the things you don't want to hear but only your friends will tell you the truth, that matter.  It's the journey with these amazing people that make me smile when I've had a long exhausting day and lay awake all night.  Thank you to all of the my friends that care enough to make me a priority in your life.  Nothing goes unnoticed by me and I am much appreciative of all the small things you say and do.  And just because a post is always more fun with a picture, here is my bestest and me the day she held me hostage.

40

Midnight ramblings and rants

It's usually during the late night or in this case, early morning hours when I find myself able to think the clearest. It's in my pajamas, feet propped on the couch, computer on my one leg, Jäger on my other, that make me ponder the big questions in life. It's these brief moments that I have to myself that I can really slow the thoughts in my mind to a manageable speed. Lately I have found less and less of my ME time and I feel scattered in too many directions and yet here I am blogging my useless thoughts in the middle of the night because I've had one too many cups of coffee to keep me going this week, to keep me afloat, when all I would like to do is get in the car and drive, no place in particular, just anywhere. That is one perk to the whole new job thing. I am on the road a lot and have recently found that I enjoy it. I'm leaning more towards the fly by the seat of your pants version of myself then the planner I have come to know. I like not knowing what life may bring and it's a scary realization. So for all the other twenty something year olds out there evaluating their lives, realize that life is what you make of it. This isn't a dress rehersal and there are no second chances. Damn us Libras in the world. We always want more. Enough with all of my life ramblings, atleast for now.

Miss L

Here's just one to drool over while I continue my editing.

Manic Monday

Today has started out very messy. My hair for one, is out of control. Thank God I have a hair appointment next week to tame the wild beast. Secondly, although I got to sleep in, I'm exhausted from a crazy weekend full of shooting. I have so much editting to catch up on. My sister saved the day for me when she texted me ...."mexico?" so, I'm off for my fix, and then home to work on photos all day!

Lyla's Sneak Peak

This morning I shot this lovely lady.  She was the lucky winner of my most recent contest.  Here's just one as a tease.

One of my favorite things...

is the crisp air of an early Sunday fall run.  I love the frost melting on the grass and the leaves blowing as I run by.  This is my time.  Just the music and the rhythm of my feet on the pavement are enough to relax me.

Nobody Puts Baby in a Corner

I love when I can't sleep and I turn on the TV and am able to find a good movie to watch even if it is in the middle of the night.  Tonight's movie was none other than Dirty Dancing.  I haven't seen that movie in forever so I was pleasantly surprised to find one of my favorites on.  It's definitely up there in the top 5 movies of all time.  I'm off to bed for couple hours before a very busy day of shooting.

A Fine Frenzy, A Great Find

In the car today I heard a great song that reminded me of all the days I spent sitting at the piano next to my Pappy pounding out chord after chord on my Nana's piano.  Though he always pretended to be annoyed by the loud sound that made it impossible for him to watch his favorite shows,  I secretly knew he loved the days that I serenaded him with my music.  As I listened to this song and fell in love with this artist's voice and style,  her piano made me want to go back to the days of pretend fighting over the tune of the piano with my Pappy.  Funny how things stir certain memories.  Thought the song was worth mentioning so below are the lyrics and the artist's video.

Almost Lover, A Fine Frenzy

Your fingertips across my skin
The palm trees swaying in the wind,
Images

You sang me Spanish lullabies
The sweetest sadness in your eyes
Clever trick

I never want to see you unhappy
I thought you'd want the same for me

Goodbye, my almost lover
Goodbye, my hopeless dream
I'm trying not to think about you
Can't you just let me be?
So long, my luckless romance
My back is turned on you
I should've known you'd bring me heartache
Almost lovers always do

We walked along a crowded street
You took my hand and danced with me,
Images

And when you left you kissed my lips
You told me you'd never ever forget these images, no

I never want to see you unhappy
I thought you'd want the same for me

Goodbye, my almost lover
Goodbye, my hopeless dream
I'm trying not to think about you
Can't you just let me be?
So long, my luckless romance
My back is turned on you
I should've known you'd bring me heartache
Almost lovers always do

I cannot go to the ocean
I cannot drive the streets at night
I cannot wake up in the morning
Without you on my mind
So you're gone and I'm haunted
And I bet you are just fine
Did I make it that easy
To walk right in and out of my life?

Goodbye, my almost lover
Goodbye, my hopeless dream
I'm trying not to think about you
Can't you just let me be?
So long, my luckless romance
My back is turned on you
I should've known you'd bring me heartache
Almost lovers always do

To the floaters..

Friendship can be an interesting concept.  I think many people misconstrue the meaning of an acquaintance and substitute in the word friend.  In my life I find that quality much overrides quantity.  I pick and choose these people very wisely who I keep in my life because I feel that only so many can truly know me inside and out.  It may be because I am so selective that when someone pulls away it hurts so deeply.  We all go through difficult times and I realize that everyone deals differently, but sometimes it would be nice to be acknowledged for trying to to keep a friendship afloat.  People float in and out of my life for reasons I may not understand but that doesn't change the fact that they are and will continue to be a part of my life.  I only hope that some of the people that have found themselves floating away will find their way back.  It is in true honesty that I can say that I cherish my friendships more than anything in life.  Without such people who are able to love you so much that they overlook your flaws, I would have no one.

Love Me Some Mexican

So anyone who knows me thinks that I may have an addiction to Mexican food. On a weekly basis I make sure I frequent the local Mexican restaurant atleast once. I'm the butt of all the jokes when it comes to going out to eat. Most people don't even need to ask me where I want to go to dinner. They know to meet me there. Tonight may be one such night. The best way to top off a busy week and rainy day.... Definitely need to love me some Mexican food tonight!

Boudoir Session Update

Sorry ladies, all sessions are filled for November 7th but please still contact if interested and we will set up another marathon! Be You Boudoir is always a blast!!!

One of those days

Isn't it funny how ten minutes can set the pace for your entire day? In my first ten minutes from stepping out of my door I have managed to drop breakfast on my pants and spill coffee on my white shirt. If I was a betting woman, I'd play the lotto today. I'm praying that this is not what my day is going to be like. Off to meet clients, and hopefully pick up a tide pen.

Can't wait to see this movie. The Irony ...

Be You Boudoir

This coming Sunday I am hosting a Boudoir Marathon.  Slots are still available so call for details.  Hair and makeup are included in packages.  This is a great gift for that special someone to have in time to give for Christmas.  Hurry and call today before it fills up.

First Step

Sometimes you never know how much you needed something until you have it.  Today was the first day I was actually my own boss.  I never could have realized how much better it feels to be photographing and working on my own personal endeavors than for someone else.  It's definitely the first step of many to doing something for me.  Looking forward to another day full of surprises tomorrow.

Christmas Early Bird Special

 For any family portrait session booked through November, get 25 free custom designed Christmas Cards and a CD included in your package for free.  Thats over $200 savings.  Call today.

Pennhurst Asylum

One tank of gas - $35
One ticket to enter - $25
One night of scaring the living crap out of me - priceless

Who pays to get scared?! ME

Real is only a matter of perception.

I believe if you haven't experienced moments so real in life that they leave you breathless, than you haven't really lived life.
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Trick or Treat

Well here are the pictures as I promised.  One showing fang and another just because I finally like one of my self portraits.

Continuing Traditions

Tonight is one of my favorite nights of the year.  I get to hand out candy to hundreds, yes 500 hundred to be exact, little munchins and following that my best friend since childhood is coming to watch our annual movie.  This tradition has continued since we were in 3rd grade.  Every halloween we watch one of two favorite halloween movies, and YES they are both corny but we love them just the same.  It doesn't matter how close or far we live we either reconvene at one of our houses or separately watch the movie the same night.  So here goes to one more year of our tradition.  What could possibly be better than a glass of wine and Hocus Pocus or Practical Magic?

runningintheusa.com

The other day I was searching for some local races to register to run in when I found a great website for all the runners in the world.  www.runningintheusa.com is a great resource for people who are looking for upcoming events.  They range from 5k to marathons to triathlons, so this has become my newest fixation.  Yesterday I registered for an 8k and by spring I hope to register for a half marathon. Ultimately, I'd like to cross the marathon off my list by next year.  I have one month to get ready and I'm sure it will be no problem but I'm still  a tad nervous, since I have to find a hotel for the weekend of the race and its a huge race weekend.  In the mean time I may run a couple 5ks before then just for fun.  Happy running!

Move Over True Blood...

....here I come.  The other day while wandering around the halloween store, I found the most amazing thing....custom fangs!  Now, for those of you who don't know, I am a huge True Blood fan and I've read most of the Sookie Stackhouse books.  So when I looked at the woman at the cash register and she had REAL fangs, I about died.  I immediately knew I was going to have the easiest and best costume this year.  I just love this time of year.  It has all the best things- sweater weather, warm apple cider, halloween and all the best scary movies on TV.  In the mean time, heres a sneak peak of my perfect find until I can update the blog with a halloween self portrait.

October Contest

Happy Halloween!!!!  Check out Kate Greenawalt Photography on Facebook  for a chance for a free session and 8x10.

Happiness

Yesterday I spent the day with my sister.  It was something much needed.  Sometimes we all need a gentle to reminder to get a grip.  As she handed me this magnet, I knew she got me.  She really understood.  Thanks for always being there and for allowing me to vent.  I know I can be a bit difficult at times but just know I appreciate it all.

For a long time it seemed to me that life was about to begin- real life.  But there was always some obstacle in the way, something to be gotten through first, some unfinished business, time still to be served, a debt to be paid.  At last it dawned on me that these obstaceles were my life.  This perspective has helped me to see there is no way to happiness.  Happiness is the way, so treasure every moment you have and remember that time waits for no one.  Happiness is a journey, not a destination...
-Souza

Moving Forward

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Favorite things

There is nothing quite like the combination of the ocean, solitude, and my camera. These things ease my mind.

Pretty Woman

Vivian: I want the fairy tale. 

My Life List Part 2

1. Open my own business
2. Run a marathon
3. Shoot for a magazine
4. Vacation in Hawaii
5. Graduate with a photography degree
6. Host a Halloween costume party
7. Be inspired
8. Live in a city
9. Dance with someone in the middle of the street
10. See pink sand
11. Learn Spanish....again
12. Play piano
13. Play guitar
14. Climb a mountain
15. Drive cross country
16. Buy a house
17. Make love by a fireplace during a snowstorm
18. Do a triathlon
19. Shoot in a NYC photography studio
20. Go to California
21. Own a beach house
22. Visit Spain and be able to hold a conversation while there
23. Experience Las Vegas
24. Spend Christmas in a different country
25. See a kangaroo in Australia
26. Take a weekend to go away with my girlfriends
27. Have a REAL studio space
28. Train my dogs....to listen
29. Completely renovate my house
30. Be featured in a professional photography magazine
31. Purchase a new Mac
32. Get a MFA
33. Teach a photo course
34. Reach my goal weight
35. Find myself
36.  See a Broadway show
37. Take a family picture that is way overdue
38. Go to Africa to volunteer and to photograph
39. Get together with my college friends
40. Take a jewelery making class
41. Start my Road to Salvation photo project
42. Photograph at least one picture in every state
43. Get a tattoo
44. Shoot a destination wedding
45. Shoot for Time or Vogue magazine
46. Take a risk with my career
47. Sky dive
48. Have my personal work displayed in a NYC gallery
49. Ski the alps
50. Be brave enough to bare it all in a boudoir photo shoot
51. Live in a foreign country for a year
52. Make Thanksgiving meal all on my own
53. Cook in nothing but heels....and be happy doing so
54. Photograph my sister
55. Own a pair of Louboutins
56. Photograph the desert
57. Be snowed in a cabin for a weekend
58. Assist Annie Leibovitz
59. Photograph everyday for one month straight
60. Stay in an ocean side hut with a glass bottom
61. Take a photo workshop
62. Redo my website
63. Create a brand for my company
64. Host a photo workshop
65. Find a good accountant
66. Buy a meal for a stranger
67. Take kickboxing
68. Have a candlelit dinner at home
69. Learn to like running
70. Travel to France
71. Tour a castle
72. Start a journal
73. Take my sister to see the Eiffel Tower
74. Throw a wine and cheese party for my girlfriends
75. Write a book
76. Backup and organize all of my past work
77. Photograph Japan's architecture
78. Photograph a timeless self portrait
79. Taste wine in wine country
80. Find my spiritual side
81. Shoot with and maybe own a digital Hasselblad
82. Read the entire Bible
83. Apply to Harvard for my MFA
84. Join a networking group
85. Visit a plantation in Savannah
86. Photograph a celebrity
87. Make a difference in someone's life
88. Take a trip alone and enjoy my own solitude
89.  Go backpacking
90. Photograph a Ford model
91. Attend a ball and wear a gown
92. Be served breakfast in bed
93. Finish my laundry room
94. Knit a scarf
95. Grow old and wrinkled and stay young at heart
96. Get lucky....in public ;)
97. Learn sign language
98.Witness a baby being born
99. Help someone in need
100.  Take my dogs to the beach
101. Give up meat for a year

My Life List

My sister emailed me the other day with an amazing blog that she thought I might find resourceful.  I strive to have complete balance in life and she's found that most recently I am struggling with what I really want out of life.  That said, she found me this entry.....http://www.haveanepiphanie.com/. (MY LIFE LIST).  She seems to know what I need to see and hear before I do.  I guess that's what sisters do for you.  As you can probably imagine, YES, I too am putting together my list for some close analyzing. Until mine is done, take a minute to read down thru these 101 things to accomplish.  It might just put your life into perspective also. 

The right quote at the right time...

I got an email from my boss today. Everyday she sends us a daily quote, but this one just felt like I needed to hear it.

It's up to us to determine our happiness. No one else is in charge. No one else is to blame. No one else gets the credit. Our happiness is tied to our willingness to be responsible for our own moods. That’s a certainty — one of few in this life.



~ Karen Casey

New Work

Recently I have been inspired to work on some of my personal work.  Below are the some of the pictures that I've found in piles of film that have been laying around untouched for way too long.

Welcome Isabella

She finally decided to join us!! Here is the big girl herself.