Renee and Sam

Just last Saturday, I was in San Diego to take photos for a wonderful couple, Renee and Sam. Weather being what it was, we almost rescheduled for a different day. It just wasn't the "blue sky" day they had hoped for in their pictures. Luckily, we went ahead because in the days to follow the skies became filled with smoke and ash and lives have been changed forever. I was relieved to learn their neighborhood was spared. My heart and prayers go out to everyone who has been impacted by these fires.
Thank you Sam and Renee for a great time behind the lens. I think the day we chose turned out to be the perfect one.

Women for Women International

(photo provided by Women for Women International)


This is Marie Louise Mukangarambe. She lives in Rwanda. And I am her sponsor. I received her picture and application form yesterday. Every year, through Women For Women International, I sponsor one woman for one year through their program. They provide educational assistance, vocational training, education regarding civil rights, etc. It is a fabulous program and they concentrate their efforts in war torn countries, such as Rwanda and Iraq ( sadly, there is a long list of countries.) You can choose the country you want to participate in. I chose Africa because they have been so tortured and in desperate need of help for so long. Plus Jessica is there, so it has become nearer to my heart. The program does not cost very much and is easy to join. Also tax deductable-win win! I hope to be able to sponsor more women, but until then I'll help get the word out and maybe you'll join in. It's rewarding to know that I am helping to make a positive change in someone's life.
Because it's all about giving back-right?

Five star family

I had the pleasure of meeting my friend Suzee and her family down at Huntington Beach pier Thursday night. After weeks of adjusting schedules, we finally found the perfect day. Although, initially I don't think the guys were particularly thrilled to show up for Christmas pictures, they seemed to warm right up to the idea and we got some great shots. Here are a few of my favorites from the night.
Thanks to all of you. I had a great time.






















Aiden is such a little character. Really, I could just follow him with my camera all day long.

Happy Friday!

So, with a little time off from work (my other real job), I had time to get out and take some pics for myself. Just another
beautiful sunny day in southern California. Darn it. Although I love to visit this place, this time it was not for me. (Except for a few photos and a UV lens protector) I did take a step inside the Apple store. The service there is always great. They really don't have to "sell" anythiing. Apple sells itself. Anyway, I was able to talk myself out of a Mac book that right now I really don't need and focus on what I went in for. Can't say what it was just yet. Someone else might read this. I'm off to heat up what looks like an incredible dinner fromJack Stack BBQ, all the way from Kansas City. Thank you so much Dora. It really looks delicious. Also, I am pretty excited that I'm not cooking tonight. For a moment, I thought it was my birthday. Wish me luck with my football picks. If Green Bay would have pulled through, last week would have been mine. I swear I am due to win.

You're in!

Yep, you're in. And trust me, this step is kinda weird for me. For those of you who know me, I am not much of a talker. I guess I tend to stay kind of private. So, this is a weird thing. This has been a year of letting go of fears and new beginnings. I guess this is just the next step in the process. Plus, I am grateful for a blog because it's a great way to let y'all know what I am up to ( without sending out a generic email ) Y'all? Austin Texas is sinking in. Anyway, if you are checking in for the first time, just like me, thanks for the visit. I'll try to keep it up to date. Kona and I are going off for a walk that I promised him two socks, one Ugg boot, and forty five minutes ago. Patient dog.