Photos by Tammy

Baby Cameron

2012-01-22T14:10:00.000-06:00

It's been a while since I've had a portrait photo shoot. My camera acts up and I haven't publicized my photography overly much for a while. A couple of weeks ago one of my daughter's new friends had a baby boy. Like my daughter, she is a single mom and I offered to take portraits of her son. I've been wanting to experiement with infant photography and she was willing to let me practice with her son. I've learned infant photography is time consuming and requires a lot of patience but the results can be so darn cute! Here are a few of my favorites:

Because Cameron's "Pappy" is a biker I decided to find a "do-rag" and take some photos that might just appeal to his grandpa:

"Charli"

2012-01-17T07:58:00.000-06:00

My granddaughter is growing and I still am in such awe when I watch her on a sonogram. Last week I watched her wiggle and move all over the place!

There was an "aaaaawwwww" moment as we watched her yawn and stick her tongue out.

She appears so much chubbier than her previous sonogram so we know she's growing. The technician estimates she weighs almost 3 pounds.

She is so precious, right down to her tiny feet!

We are praying for this tiny baby. Her ultrasound revealed a "double bubble" on her stomach. We still aren't sure what all that means and won't know much more until a more intense sonogram next week. We know this means little Charli may have surgery as soon as she's born. She's being prayed for by friends and family and churches across the US and we are so thankful to have no doubt she is in God's hands.

Home is Where the Heart Is

2011-12-28T07:00:00.001-06:00

I haven't lived in the Ozarks of Missouri in 11 years but I left a part of my heart there and it will remain as long as I have my memory. Here are a few of the places that we visited that are dear to me:

Davis Creek Church: the church I attended with my siblings as children and later as adults with our children. This is where my parents were married and where my aunt attended her first day of school.

Grandpa's barn: of course it doesn't look quite the same as it did when full of hay and where I would visit with Grandma and watch while she milked the cow.

Grandpa's shop: where ALLL the grandkids learned to work on our bikes, where we took our bikes for Grandpa to fix flats, where all the girls were determined to sweep up all the grime on the floor. Grandpa's shop was where Grandpa could always be found. There is still a path that leads from the front door of the house to the shop.

Just one of the ponds on Grandpa's place: where all the cousins could be found fishing with cane poles. I am not a fan of fishing, but even I caught many fish using Grandpa's cane poles in his ponds. When we were little the only pond we were allowed to play near was the one behind the shop, closest to where Grandpa could keep an eye on us. As we grew up we could be found more at the distant ponds like this one that were out of eye and ear shot of the grandparents and parents.

This is all that's left of Grandpa's sawmill, where he earned much of his living. Grandpa was a jack of all trades, from logger, to grading roads. When playing at Grandpa's we always found our way to the huge sawdust pile.

Sunrise in Calico Rock

2011-12-24T07:32:00.000-06:00

Another favorite part of our fall vacation was the morning my husband, my mom and I drove to Calico Rock, Arkansas very very early in the morning to watch the sun rise over the bluffs of the White River. It was incredible! The sunrise itself wasn't particularly spectacular that day, but the fog was amazing and so surreal. We stayed and wondered around the bluffs until well after sunrise and until every bit of the fog had lifted. My husband the daredevil gave us a scare several times as he'd wonder so close to the edge of the rocks high above the river. It was a beautiful morning and one I hope to never forget.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-16T07:15:00.000-06:00

For more wordlessness, click here.

Hocomo

2011-11-06T20:12:00.001-06:00

On Monday of our vacation we stayed pretty close to Mom's house as we were pretty worn out from the long drive and then the long day Sunday exploring Boxley Valley. We slept in a little and I asked Mom to show me again the old school where my Grandpa attended first grade. I knew the approximate vicinity but could not remember exactly how to get there.

The last time I visited the school we took photos from the road as the owner of the property had fenced in the school. This time we decided to venture a bit closer and walked up the owner's driveway for a closer look. As we approached the fence with our cameras the farmer, on his tractor, shouted to us that we were welcome to go through his gate and into the pasture for a closer look! We didn't hesitate and headed to the gate.

I'm afraid the building may not stand many more years and was happy to capture some shots of it.

My mom standing in the door:

Nearby there is also an old spring house that was surrounded by some pretty fall colors:

I'm very thankful that my husband will generally stop when I yell "stop" so that I can simply step out of the car for a photo. He doesn't always know what I've spotted but if possible stops anyway. That day, one of my favorite photos of the trip was snapped:

Boxley Valley

2011-11-05T16:13:00.000-05:00

After our hike in the "Lost Valley" we drove around in Boxley Valley looking for the elk that are seen reguarly along the roadside. As we waited and drove we stopped for photos:

And Finally, the ELK!!!

I had never before seen elk in the wild and had never heard one bugle except on tv. What an amazing experience and sound. Now I understand the lines of cars with people stopped on the roadside, watching, waiting, cameras ready. What a beautiful beautiful place!

Boxley Valley: The Hike in Lost Valley

2011-11-02T22:17:00.001-05:00

It was a beautiful walk through the woods, to the natural bridge, crawling up over huge rocks, up to the waterfall that with recent drought provided just a trickle, on to the cave at the end...and back down.

Heather and Marty walking the trail:

All the gals paused along the trail on a fallen log over the creek:

An old hollow tree that appears to have been burned. Each of the kids took turns standing inside the remains for a photo. Heather:

My niece Nicole:

Heather, my sister Lacey, my niece Nicole and my mom walking together:

My cousin's daughter Lea looks so tiny below the massive rocks!

Heading up over the natural bridge to the waterfall on the other side.

Just too funny not to snap

Up up and up the trail climbed

Just outside of the natural bridge the view was stunning. Straight up rock bluffs all around.

Picnic in Boxley Valley

2011-11-02T08:11:00.000-05:00

Reminiscent of childhood days and road trips through Arkansas with my family, on our trip to Boxley Valley we took picnic food and supplies for lunch. Upon arrival we chose a spot (all picnic tables had washed away in a previous flood) and unpacked coolers, boxes and blankets.

My niece Nicole was very curious about the contents in everyone's coolers and boxes.

My brother in law Greg cooked hot dogs for any who didn't want sandwiches.

My brother Davy just chillin' waiting for his food.

After lunch we hit the trail (Lost Valley). Can you see that the love of photography kinda runs in the family??

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-02T01:04:00.001-05:00

For more wordlessness, click here.

Kayleigh Charles

2011-11-01T07:45:00.000-05:00

It's a Girl! My daughter Heather had another ultrasound yesterday and it appears that my first grandbaby is a girl! My husband will continue to be outnumbered by girls and all things PINK! :)

Kayleigh, or "Charli" as Heather plans to call her, weighs about 8 ounces and appears to be growing just fine and healthy. Heather is just over 18 weeks along in her pregnancy.

I am completely smitten with this tiny wonder and am in awe of the technology that allows us to see in such detail what she already looks like:

Heather chose the name Kayleigh Charles to use my mother's middle name Kay, Heather's middle name Leigh, and Heather's dad's middle name Charles. She has always loved nicknames and plans to call the baby "Charli." I can't wait to meet you this spring Charli!

Boxley Valley, AR

2011-11-01T07:13:00.000-05:00

After our detour in Cotter, Arkansas we proceeded onward toward Boxley Valley. The hills and valleys were breathtaking! Just before we reached our destination all 3 cars in our group stopped above the valley to see the panoramic view. The beauty and the colors literally brought tears to my eyes. It had been so long since I'd seen vivid fall colors and I was in awe of the beauty God created for us to enjoy.

Cotter, AR

2011-10-31T07:38:00.000-05:00

Last week my family and I traveled to West Plains, MO to spend a week of vacation with my extended family. We stayed with my mom and step dad in the home where I was raised. Trips back home always bring back so many childhood memories! I love the Ozarks and find beauty in so many places so close to Mom's home.

Mom and I made many plans for places to see throughout the week. She and I have long loved to take walks, enjoy nature, and of course take photos!

We arrived on Saturday with a big family get-together on Saturday night (photos and post to come soon!). Sunday most of the family decided to join us to travel to Boxley Valley, Arkansas. Mom had told me of a valley where she had hiked to a waterfall and watched elk. She thought it would be beautiful with the fall leaves turning colors. She was so right!

On the drive to Boxley, not far into our journey, we stopped just outside Cotter, AR to enjoy a pretty view. We all decided to take a closer look and drove down to the bridge we could see. My sister and her husband knew the area well and led the way.

We ventured up onto the train tracks for more photos...

.....and then down the tracks to the tunnel we could see in the distance. Of course not one of us was brave enough to cross the bridge so we climbed back down, drove back across the river to a campground where my sister Regina knew the way to the tunnel on the other side.

My daughter Heather and my husband Marty:

The view from inside the tunnel:

Silhouette of my mom:

2011-10-11T21:52:00.003-05:00

I've joined the Pinterest craze. And I'm hooked! There are so many inspiring and creative ideas! I've found ideas that I want to try, ideas I'd love to be able to afford, funny and touching words, inspiring photography, recipes I want to try...the list goes on and on.

It occured to me today that something my husband created for me might inspire someone else. I have a lot of costume jewelry and needed somewhere to organize it, somewhere that it wouldn't become so tangled I'd never wear it because it takes too long to UNtangle! My husband is brilliant!

He bought a full length mirror, attached hinges to one long end and a handle to the frame of the mirror and built a wooden box full of hooks for necklaces. It hangs on the back of my bathroom door and it's PERFECT!

(I apologize for the phone photos but was too lazy to use my real camera)

At first glance it seems I just have a regular mirror on the back of the door:

Open the handle and voila!

Lots of little hooks perfect for all that hangs!

Happy Sweet 16

2011-10-06T07:44:00.002-05:00

Today is my sweet niece's 16th birthday! Happy Sweet 16 Danielle!

Danielle is a sweet beautiful girl. I'm proud of her, proud of her morals and values, and proud of who she is. Danielle plans to one day attend ORU in Oklahoma and carry her love of music into a ministry of music. I have confidence she will do well and I believe in her 100%!

A Reminder of Grandpa

2011-10-03T07:30:00.000-05:00

Saturday as we visited with one of the couples from our church they happily showed us the many fruit trees and plants growing in their yard and on their property.

When they showed us the persimmon tree it reminded me of fall days when my Grandpa, in the Missouri Ozarks, would pick a persimmon and cut it open to see the shape revealed inside. He'd say the shape would predict how hard the following winter would be. The shape of a spoon would predict there would be much snow shoveling. The shape of a knife would predict a lot of ice to be cut. The shape of a fork would predict a mild winter. My husband asked if the predictions were ever accurate and you know, I don't even remember if they ever were! I just remember Grandpa always did this, and then would always invite us to taste the persimmon, which would always be so bitter we'd spit it back out and he'd grin just as if it were the first time he'd played the trick on us. When I shared the story with our friends, Fermin went to pick Marty and I each a persimmon so we could cut them and predict the winter. Since winters are always rather mild here in South Central Texas, I'm not sure the same predictions apply, but it's been fun to remember Grandpa in this way.

A photo of Grandpa and me taken several years ago:

When I cut open the perimmons this is what I found. Not sure if it's a knife shape or how Grandpa might predict a Texas winter, but it was fun to relive a memory that I hadn't though about in years.

First Day of Autumn

2011-09-23T06:30:00.001-05:00

Summer is over--at least as far as the seasons go. The days are still very warm here in South Texas...but the cooler nights do suggest that fall just might be around the next corner.

As fall approaches I am eagerly anticipating our upcoming fall vacation. I am hoping to see colors so vibrant and abundant back in the Ozarks that I have missed for 10 years. I do love Texas, but every fall I long for the wonderful colors I was accustomed to seeing back home. I look forward with excitement to seeing some of my favorite places bathed in oranges, reds, yellows.

I can't wait to see this place, one of my favorite places in the Ozarks, alive with bright colors!

My First Glimpse of Our Grandbaby

2011-09-07T20:49:00.001-05:00

I had the privilege of going with Heather to her first sonogram today. I was touched to have been asked to go. The technician pointed to a screen on the wall where I could view the images of the sonagram or she said I could just look at her screen over her shoulder. I found myself glancing back and forth between the two, and over to watch Heather's face as she watched as well.

As I watched the screen a tiny image appeared within a dark space. I expected the image to appear more kidney-bean shaped or alien in appearance but instead what I saw made my eyes fill with tears. Heather and I both exclaimed "awwww...." in unison as her baby filled the screen.

There on the screen appeared an image the shape of a tiny baby. I could make out the head, arms, legs and even the place where an ear will grow. The technician was able to see fingers and toes but those I could not see. Imagine my wonder as I watched and the baby woke and began to move. The arms were moving about and the legs were kicking! Oh wow I did not expect to see that! I was completely smitten with the images I was seeing on the screen. The baby quickly settled down again and the technician said it's already asleep again. Then its whole body seemed to jump at once, but only once. It was almost amusing to see and that we were told was a hiccup. Heather and I laughed together and another "awwww" moment. Within seconds the baby was awake and moving again and the technician explained her/his hand movements were almost as if she/he was swiping at his/her face.

This is a day I want to brand forever in my memory. Today created even more excitement for the new baby that will soon arrive. The due date is near April 2, 2012. Oh the fun ahead as we plan and prepare for this tiny new addition to our family! Thank you Heather for sharing such a special sweet moment of your pregnancy!

Jeremiah 1:5

Before I formed you in the womb I knew[a] you, before you were born I set you apart;

Tubing the Comal

2011-09-05T12:32:00.001-05:00

One summer activity our family enjoys is tubing along the Comal. It's usually very crowded but we enjoy it anyway. We always go with friends and we all float along together and chat as we let the water move us downriver. The water is pretty slow moving most of the way and it's very relaxing.

We decided weeks ago to take the day off work on Heather's birthday and go tubing. We thought it was likely not to be crowded and it's an activity we can all enjoy and is very inexpensive. As the day approached some things changed and Heather was scheduled to work late in the afternoon so we decided we'd still float and we'd make it an early float trip.

This early in Heather's pregnancy meant Heather woke feeling horrible, sick, and pretty irritable. We decided to go anyway in hopes her mood and morning sickness would improve.

Our wonderful friend Kendra was able to join us as well. She hesitated to join us, not wanting to intrude on family time. I told her she was silly, that she IS family. :)

Heather's boyfriend Phillip was able to join us as well. Although he's been tubing before this was his first trip on the Comal:

Kendra heading toward the first tube chute:

And away she goes!

My turn:

Heather was right behind me!

Marty chillin' on the river:

Heather and Kendra enjoying our relaxing morning:

Might have to replace my hat soon. It's getting pretty battered!

There were so few tubers on the river even the ducks were enjoying the water:

Majesty

2011-09-01T07:03:00.000-05:00

Psalm 93

The LORD reigns, he is robed in majesty;

the LORD is robed in majesty and armed with strength;

indeed, the world is established, firm and secure.

Your throne was established long ago;

you are from all eternity.

The seas have lifted up, LORD,

the seas have lifted up their voice;

the seas have lifted up their pounding waves.

Mightier than the thunder of the great waters,

mightier than the breakers of the sea—

the LORD on high is mighty.

Your statutes, LORD, stand firm;

holiness adorns your house

for endless days.

Life's Memories

2011-08-27T08:14:00.001-05:00

I'm still adjusting to the news that we'll have a grandchild in April. This week I purchased my first gift for the new baby, and there's a story behind the gift.

When I was born my paternal grandmother gave my parents a baby book for me. It's not like any other baby book I've ever seen. It has pages to record school days, every childhood birthday, teen years, marriage, my anniversaries (all the way to my silver anniversary), and my great grandchildren.

When Heather was born I wanted a book like mine for her. All I could find in stores were baby books that were for the first year of baby's life or first 5 years. I did not have a computer or internet access then so my only options for shopping were the nearby stores.

I was in school for advertising design when I was pregnant with Heather, the same age my daughter is now. I had a lot of art supplies and tons of tracing paper, marker paper, etc. I decided to make Heather's baby book. The secretary on the farm where Marty worked came by one evening and taught me how to make the decorative cloth covered photo albums. I made one for Heather with lots of pink and lots of lace with her help. Within the pages I put traced copies of the pages of my baby book so I could keep a record for Heather similar to the one my mom kept for me.

from a page in my book:

Heather's first photo in her book:

My first photo in my book:

from mine:

from Heather's:

from mine:

from Heather's:

This week I decided to search for the book online in hopes it is still being published. I found the printer here and have ordered the baby book as my first gift for my grandchild. I an anxiously awaiting its arrival in hopes that it is just like my book and Heather's. I've written my grandmother a letter letting her know the legacy she began with my book continues with my grandchild.

Burgess Family Portraits

2011-08-15T08:05:00.000-05:00

Last week I had the privelege of photographing one of my favorite families! I gave them several location ideas and they chose to take them at the river in Gruene, TX. This family loves the outdoors, especially where water is invoved so this location is perfect for them! Their oldest daughter just left to return to college and it's the first time this family will be so far from her. They wanted new family photos before she left.

20 Years together and obviously still so much in love

Father and daughter

Mother and son

brother and sister

Erica, may you have a blessed year in college! You will be missed by us all!

Tube Time!

2011-08-08T07:52:00.000-05:00

Our great friends John and Kendra and family have recently moved back to Texas and we are THRILLED to have them nearby again!!! Summer is quickly slipping by but we all took a break from weekend chores and they took a break from unpacking and getting settled to meet at our favorite place on the river. By the looks of it, it must also be a favorite place for many many people!

Kendra:

John:

Erica:

Me:

Marty:

John & Kendra:

How I've missed my friends while they were stationed in Maryland!
Kendra and me:

My hunny and me:

The river was PACKED but still so fun!

There was much splashing...

...and even an attempt to stand up in my tube! Tada!

We are enjoying having such good friends closer to us again and look forward to making many more memories together!

Welcome home John and Kendra! We ♥ You!!!

Blessed Saturday

2011-08-04T06:00:00.000-05:00

Matthew 18:1-3

The Greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven

1 At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?”

2 He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. 3 And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.

Matthew 28:19

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,

My Future

2011-07-27T06:00:00.010-05:00

Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

I ♥ Faces: Water

2011-07-26T08:06:00.002-05:00

One of the best parts about summer for most kids is CAMP! My husband and I recently took the teens from our church to Highland Lakes for Journey Youth Camp. Of course their favorite part of that camp is the BANANA BOAT!

I had a hard time deciding which photo to use for the I ♥ Faces: Water Challenge. They are preparing for take off!

This week over at I ♥ Faces the theme/challenge is "water." Head over there to check it out.

George

2011-07-23T15:21:00.000-05:00

Meet George.

He's about 14 years old and belongs to my daughter, Heather. When she was just a little girl, and unbeknownst to me, one of my clients heard Heather say she really really really wanted a white cat so she could name him snowball.

In the middle of an ice storm my client's cats had kittens, and one was indeed white. She waited for the kittens to be old enough to wean from their mother and showed up at my house with a tiny white kitten just for Heather. How could I possibly turn her away?

I had not known of Heather's desire to have a white cat to name "Snowball." When Heather received the kitten we began to discuss names for him. Of course her first response was "Snowball!" but I encouraged her to think of some other names as well and to see if there were any other names that she liked as much. She began to think about it, and would often ask people she met for ideas for names for her new cat. She asked a friend of mine what he liked for cat names and as a joke he said, "George of the Jungle." And guess what name stuck? So now we have George, short for George of the Jungle, and 14 years later he's still with us.

George has always had a mind of his own and has never been a very "cuddly" cat. Heather couldn't possibly have loved him any more, depsite the scratches received when he wasn't in the mood to be cuddled. He has always been a bit moody with a mind of his own, and when children visit are always warned, George doesn't always like to be pet.

He's a beautiful cat, and on the rare occasion he opens his eyes, the brightest radiant blue eyes beam back at you. Typically he squints so much you can't see his eyes, and these days he's a bit skinnier, with less skin on his ears than before, but he's still a very loved cat. Especially by Heather.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-20T07:46:00.000-05:00

For more wordlessness, click here.

Sunrise from Camp

2011-07-17T22:47:00.000-05:00

Early one morning at camp Marty and I along with Heather and one of our campers woke very early to watch the sun rise together. The rest of our campers refused to allow us to wake them early enough to enjoy the view so we let them sleep.

The last morning of camp the girls got ready for breakfast and packed bags very quickly. The boys were SLOW getting ready that day so we wondered down to the prayer garden and the girls were able to see the sun that had just risen in an even more beautiful sky than the day before:

Habakkuk 3:3-5 (NIV)

...His glory covered the heavens

and his praise filled the earth.

His splendor was like the sunrise;

Conquering Fear

2011-07-14T18:26:00.001-05:00

Heights never really bothered me much growing up...as long as I had a strong foothold and a rail to hold on to. The older I get the more uncomfortable high places make me. If I don't have a strong foothold and something to hold on to, forget about it. 3 years ago when I first went to Highland Lakes Camp as a counselor I had every intention of participating in the zip line with the kids and other counselor. I climbed half way up the 44 foot tower atop a hill, felt it moving, and promptly climbed back down.

This year was my first time back at camp since then. I knew I wanted to conquer my fear but I wasn't sure I could.

During our quiet time on day 2 we studied Matthew 16:24-25. Our guide booklet explained the verses in this way: "Jesus is saying that if we want to join with him in livingn the greatest adventure, we must be willing to let him call all the shots, to let him be the leader of our lives." We

were then to pray to God and ask him what's one adventure He wants us to do before we die. And "what's one adventurous thing He wants me to do this week?" I kept feeling like He wanted me to participate in the zip line, then I doubted that He'd really care one way or another whether I did that. I couldn't figure out what one silly activity had to do with what God wanted from me. I didn't participate in the zip line that afternoon when some of our group did, but I just couldn't let go of the feeling that this is something I was supposed to do.

On the last full day of camp I signed up at breakfast to participate in the zip line, thinking that if I decided at the last minute not to go through with it, it wouldn't be a big deal. When the time in the afternoon approached for us to trek down to the course, I was still considering whether I'd actually go through with it. Halfway there, one of the students realized Marty was still in his flip flops, which aren't allowed on the zip line. He ran back to change and the rest continued on while I kept thinking "he doesn't need to take the time to do that, we don't HAVE to go" but we continued on and I didn't voice what I was thinking.

We arrived at the course early, just as the workers were about to take a break. Marty wasn't back yet and they said it would be about 20 minutes before we could go up. They offered to let us go quickly since there were so few of us and they could take their break afterward but I explained we were waiting for our other counselor. As I waited and looked at the tall tower my anxiety increased and I had more and more time to doubt what I was about to do and almost got up to leave. Then Marty came around the corner ready to go. I told him I wasn't sure I could do it. He encouraged me and told me to go get the harness and helmet and climb up. He said if it gets bad to climb back down. So, trembling, I got my gear.

I began to climb up, refusing to look either up or down, only looking at where to place my hand next. Marty was talking to me from below but I have no idea what he said. I was concentrating very hard on each step and holding on tight.

When I reached almost the top I was startled to hear voices that seemd to come from right behind me. I looked up slightly and saw the top of the tower ladder.

What was next was even harder for me than the climb. Marty knows I never stand on the very top of ladders because I'm never sure of my footing there with no more ladder to hold on to. That was what the top of the tower ladder felt like too--but 44 feet in the air. I had to step on the very top rung, grab metal rings above that to hold on to and move from the ladder to the platform of the tower.

By the time I was standing on the platform I was shaking so hard and breathing very rapidly. I told the workers I needed to sit down. They had to move my ropes from my harness and hook me up to the zip line first.

Then they told me that I had to sit on the edge and dangle my feet over the edge! Are you kidding me? I just wanted to sit down in the middle and gather my wits and calm down before going near the edge. No such luck. As I was being persuaded to the edge Marty arrived to the top of the tower behind me and all 3 men just sat on the edge with me until I was ready to fall off. I was to lean over the edge from a sitting position and just fall. I wasn't sure I could do it. It looked so far.

I asked Marty to help me remember the scripture we'd read the day we were to write down the adventure God wanted us to do. Neither of us could recall it so one of the camp staff said Philippians 4:13 helps many who are afraid at the top. That helped tremendously. This verse is one I know well and remembering the words "I can do all this through him who gives me strength" was just what I needed to have the courage to take the plunge.

The men began to count to 3. I didn't wait for them to reach 3, at 2 I went for it. It was a scary feeling falling and waiting for the harness to catch me, but I quickly relaxed a bit as it caught and I sped downward.

As I slowed my descent at the bottom a staff member brought a set of stairs so I could climb to the ground. As I stepped onto the stairs I was shaking so hard the entire stairs were shaking.

Of course Marty and my youth got a kick out of that, but I didn't care. I DID IT! I might even do it again, but most of all I'm just glad I listened to God and let Him help me push through the fear and prove that He could get me through any adventure He sends me through.

Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-13T05:00:00.002-05:00

Peaceful Walk

2011-07-12T05:00:00.006-05:00

Numbers 6:26 (NIV)

"the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.”’

Dolphins

2011-07-11T05:00:00.003-05:00

Genesis 1:28 (NIV)

God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.”

Corpus Christi Skate Park

2011-07-10T07:37:00.001-05:00

While exploring the Corpus Christi shoreline we stumbled upon Cole Park and the Corpus Christi Skate Park. We spent much of our getaway weekend people watching, and spent an enjoyable evening just watching the kids practice their moves.

2 Corinthians 5:14-15 (NIV)

For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.

Twins!

2011-07-09T08:23:00.000-05:00

Living in the country definitely has its advantages. One such perk is the wildlife I get to watch on a regular basis. We see deer in our yard on a daily basis. Recently a doe began to hang around more often and we wondered if she'd have her fawn close by. We don't know where she kept them while they were tiny, but she had twins. We still see them several times a week but they spook easily. Today, I was able to quietly slip onto the back porch and take a few photos before the clicks of the camera scared them away.

Aren't they cute??!

Of course momma wasn't far away

oops! too many shutter clicks!

Padre Island

2011-07-07T07:10:00.000-05:00

Along the Padre Island National Seashore:

Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-06T21:17:00.000-05:00

For more wordlessness, click here.

20 Years

2011-07-06T08:09:00.001-05:00

There's a country song whose lyrics have been running through my head all weekend. The words I keep singing in my head are "20 years together and she still gets to me..." Today, my husband and I celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary. I posted on facebook this morning that I "spent the weekend celebrating our 20th wedding anniversary, which is today. Ours is not a perfect marriage and certainly hasn't always been easy, but with God's grace we continue to grow, and as we grow closer to Him, we also grow closer to one another. Looking forward to the what the next 20 will bring!"

The first 20 years included raising a daughter, many moves across many states, so many memories (both good and bad), and many many milestones. There was a time I dreaded this point in our marriage, not knowing what it would bring, whether we'd still love one another once we didn't have a daughter keeping us together, wondering if our different interests would simply take us farther and farther from one another.

I have found in the last year with our empty nest that I don't dread what the next 20 years will bring; I look forward to it! I have found I am enjoying getting to know my husband again. It seems at times that we spent much of the first 20 surrounded by many people and the last year we have had much more time with just the two of us. Our life is very different from what it once was. Over all the first 20 years were wonderful and I'd definitely do it again, but I look forward with anticipation to what the rest of our lives together will bring!

We went away for the weekend to celebrate our "milestone" and spent a couple of days in Corpus Christi.

We played tourist and had our photo taken in front of one of the shops:

We toured the USS Lexington:

And of course touring the USS Lexington included walking the plank!

We visited the Texas State Aquarium:

We sat on a beach and watched 4th of July fireworks:

And we walked along quiet beaches:

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-29T00:12:00.000-05:00

For more wordlessness click here.

Painting to be Auctioned for Missions

2011-05-31T21:15:00.001-05:00

This painting is up for bids:

This 16"x20" acrylic painting on canvas of Coconut Beach in Brazil is being auctioned off for missions. I am the director of our church's VBS and every year the girls and boys have a contest to raise money for missions. This year their offering will be given for building a church that our church helped plant in Coqueiro, Brazil. My husband, my pastor and his wife, and many of our friends have been on mission trips to the area. To place a bid for the painting, leave a comment of your bid amount beneath the photo on my facebook page (click here). Highest bid placed by midnight Saturday night, June 11, 2011, wins the painting. 100% of the proceeds from the painting will be sent to Brazil for building the church. VBS begins Monday, June 13. Of course the proceeds of this auction will be added to the GIRLS contributions! This painting based on a photo taken in Brazil by my husband while he was on his last mission trip to the area in 2009.

Blanchard Springs, AR

2011-05-24T07:07:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite places to visit on trips back home is Blanchard Springs, AR. I enjoy the caverns and I especially enjoy the beauty of Mirror Lake:

Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-18T07:14:00.000-05:00

For more wordlessness, click here.

More Hummers

2011-05-16T08:15:00.000-05:00

Can you see a pattern in how I've been spending my mornings?! Coffee and hummingbirds!

Stevens Family Portraits

2011-05-12T06:48:00.000-05:00

This spring I drove to Lampassas to take photos of a family reunion for my friends. I have never seen a bluer sky in Texas than the one we had that day!

Just the girls!

The whole fam!

What photo shoot is complete without a goofy shot?

Sisters:

Just the kids:

The Wilcox Fam:

The Brotherwood Fam:

Hummers

2011-05-07T10:32:00.001-05:00

This spring we are seeing more hummingbirds in our backyard than ever before. I'm thoroughly enjoying the opportunities to try to capture them with my camera!
(clicking on any of the photos takes you to my photo website where prints can be purchased)

Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-04T21:45:00.000-05:00

For more wordlessness click here.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-20T01:14:00.000-05:00

For more wordlessness, click here.

Lady in Pink

2011-04-20T01:10:00.000-05:00

Last weekend hubby and I attended the 2011 Texas Sandfest in Port Aransas. I took many photos of the sand sculpting and of them all the photos I took of this woman stood out.

That bright pink against all the blue really shines:

Spring Flower

2011-04-19T06:45:00.000-05:00

Recently I had the privelege of photographing this little cutie. Isn't she the cutest flower among the bluebonnets?!

Birdwatching in Port A

2011-04-18T07:02:00.000-05:00

When hubby and I woke early on Sunday morning to watch the sunrise at the beach, we took a walk on the jetty. A crane flew in and landed near us, swooped into the water and came back with a fish. After several minutes of chewing he was finally able to eat his fish and then he seemed to pose for photos for me for as long as I kept snapping. So, naturally, I obliged!

I ♥ Faces: Wind

2011-04-17T21:19:00.000-05:00

It's been a long time since I've participated in one of the I ♥ Faces Challenges. This week's challenge is "Wind." When I saw that I immediately remembered a recent family reunion photo shoot in which we battled a LOT of wind while taking outdoor photos. One such photo is of these 2 soon-to-be step sisters in Alaska. What beautiful girls, even with the wind blowing their hair in their faces!!!

Sunrise in Port A

2011-04-17T16:44:00.000-05:00

This weekend my husband and I went away to the beach for the weekend to relax and to enjoy Sandfest at Port Aransas. We woke early both days in an attempt to watch the sunrise on the beach. Day 1 was VERY windy and cloudy so great pictures were not meant to be:

Day 2 was also cloudy and a bit windy but not as bad as the previous day. Neither day had spectacular colorful skies as I'd hoped but I enjoyed photographing anyway:

Keep checking back. Photos of sandfest coming soon!

A Study in Green

2011-04-08T21:28:00.000-05:00

As I was trying to talk on the phone my husband interrupted to tell me I really needed to come outside and to bring my camera. To take photos. Of a frog. Yes, a frog. I am sure if you know me well you know how quickly I jumped on that, or not. A frog? Ok, ok I'm coming....

Ok maybe he's not so bad. But I'm still not holding him. And he'd better not jump on me.

Ok, maybe I'll even get closer...

"Wait, wait, wait. That's not my good side"

See I knew I didn't like frogs...

"Could you at least wait until I've had a bath???? I'm awfully dirty! I even appear to have cobwebs stuck to me!"

"Oh goodness! Not THAT close, the WRINKLES will show!"

"Seriously, after your husband scares me off the stump and I'm even DIRTIER and still you're here with your camera? Oh the humanity!"

"Look, I even now have trash on my face."

"Leave me with a shred of dignity and be off with you now!"

Brand New Blog!

2011-01-10T07:17:00.002-06:00

Check it out! I have a brand new blog devoted just to my painting! You can check it out here.

I may be back here to blog again soon too!

I ♥ Faces: All About Babies!

2010-06-15T21:02:00.000-05:00

This week's challenge at I ♥ Faces is

All About BABIES!

My entry for this challenge is a portrait I took of baby Elizabeth:

Head over to I ♥ Faces and check out the other amazing baby entries or enter your own baby photograph:

Wordless Wednesday

2010-06-08T22:36:00.000-05:00

For more wordlessness, click here.

Sights and Sounds of Summer

2010-05-30T08:02:00.001-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-05-26T07:26:00.001-05:00

Click this link for more wordlessness.

Pottersville Church

2010-05-20T23:26:00.002-05:00

Growing up next door to my grandmother, I spent many many of my childhood days with her. She shared so many stories of her younger years. I wish I could remember more of them! One of the places she spoke of often was Pottersville Church where she attended at one time, but I don't know for how long. She used to share stories of riding her horse or driving her horse and buggy to Pottersville to visit friends and family.

Recently my facebook friend, Sue, uploaded this photo she took of the church in Pottersville.

I was immediately drawn to the photo and considered painting it and asked Sue if she'd mind and asked her to send me the photo in color. She was honored to have been asked but I found that I loved the photo in sepia and decided to paint it that way too.

My sister gave me some old windows that had once been in the church where her husband is pastor. I have painted one of them already, and painted a church in a field of wildflowers on it. After I began painting Sue's photo on this window, I have decided to paint only churches on the windows from my sister.

I thought you might like to see the progress of this window, that I think has become a favorite of mine. A good friend of mine shared that his parents were married in this church and that the windows that once graced its walls now reside in their home. Several have shared their memories of this church with me and I'm loving all the stories!

Painting Auction: Benefits Project Graduation

2010-04-28T13:27:00.002-05:00

Up for bids is this hand painted antique window:

It measures 34" wide by 27" tall. Acrylic paints were used and painted over gesso, applied right onto the glass panes.

My daughter is graduating high school this year. Many parents have come together to plan "Project Graduation" for the graduates so they can celebrate their night in a safe, fun environment with no alcohol nor drugs. Monies are still being raised for this event and here's how you can help. Contributions are of course welcomed! If you'd like to purchase this painting (would make an awesome Mother's Day Gift by the way!!!), simply leave your bid amount in the comments section below (click the word "comments" below this post). Bidding starts at $25. Bidding will end at 10:00 pm Central Daylight Savings Time on Wednesday, May 5, 2010. 100% of the proceeds will go to Seguin Project Graduation. At the end of the auction, the top bidder will have 24 hours to contact me (photosbytammy@sbcglobal.net) to make arrangements to pay. Painting will be delivered to local winner if in the Seguin/New Braunfels areas. Others may choose to pick up from a convenient location. If winning bidder lives outside area and cannot make arrangements to pick up, it will be necessary for you to pay for shipping expenses. You may contact me for shipping information.

Good luck and let's help make some money for Project Graduation!!!

I ♥ Faces: Smiles

2010-04-26T07:31:00.000-05:00

Saturday I went to San Antonio to shoot some portraits of a young lady. I captured some sweet photos of her 9 month old baby too. As soon as I saw that I ♥ Faces' theme this week is smiles I immediately thought of this photo of baby Karlie:

Head over to I ♥ Faces and check out the other amazing collages or enter your own smiling photograph:

Heather's Senior Prom

2010-04-25T14:30:00.001-05:00

The big day finally arrived...Heather's Senior Prom! She looked stunning in the dress she fell in love with we found while on a recent trip to Missouri.

The makeup:

The dress:

The hair:

The flower:

The Shoes:

The friends:

The girls:

The fellas:

Her date:

The besties:

The looooong wait for the very late limo:

Helping her bestie Ryan:

At long last, the limo:

And the Winner Is....

2010-04-21T23:17:00.003-05:00

A random number generator was used to determine the winner of a painting in my recent "700th Post Celebration."

The Winning Prize is this 11x14 painting:

And the winner was Denise, my 27th commenter. So, Miss Denise, contact me asap with your mailing address via email so I can ship your new painting to you! Thank you all for playing along and keep watching! You never know when I may do this again!

For the rest of you who did not win, if you'd like to order another rendition of the painting (on canvas), I'll paint an 11x14 for $50 plus shipping or a 16x20 for $75 plus shipping. Contact me if you'd like to order one.

I ♥ Faces: Collages

2010-04-20T17:34:00.002-05:00

This week's challenge at I ♥ Faces is Collages. Here's my entry of a collage of photos I took of my friends' son Joseph:

Head over to I ♥ Faces and check out the other amazing collages:

Don't forget to check out this link for the contest I have going on that ends TOMORROW (Wed., April 21 at 11 pm Central Time)

700th Post Celebration!!!!!

2010-04-18T01:48:00.074-05:00

It's my 700th Blog Post and in Celebration I'm giving away this 11x14 canvas painting I created just for this occasion!!!!

If you'd like a chance to win this painting, simply leave a comment (one comment please) on this post. Want to increase your chances to win??? Post a link to this blog post on facebook and come back and leave another comment letting me know you did so. Still another chance? Tweet a link on your twitter account and come back and leave me a comment letting me know you did so. For another chance, grab this button and post it on your blog and leave me a comment with a link to your blog. (Be sure to leave separate comments for each entry).

Here's the code to display the button in your blog post or on your sidebar:

<center><a href="http://photosbytammy.blogspot.com/2010/04/700th-post-celebration.html"><img src="http://photosbytammy.smugmug.com/photos/840009496_EpwYA-Th.jpg" /></a></center>

Here are a few of my other latest painting projects. I have an etsy website where I display paintings that are for sale. Often as soon as I post photos of a completed painting on my facebook page it sells and/or I get more orders to paint a similar scene again for another customer. Check out my etsy site by clicking here or go to http://www.paintedbytammy.etsy.com/

Although I do paint canvases from time to time, currently the most popular items are my painted antique windows, of which some are shown here:

Whether you are a loyal reader/follower of my blog or stopping by for the first time, welcome to my site and good luck with the giveaway! I'll be using a random number generator to choose one lucky commenter. Deadline to comment is Wednesday night, April 21 at 11:00 pm. Winner will be announced no later than Friday, April 23. Good luck!!!

A Day at the Park

2010-04-17T19:00:00.000-05:00

My sister Lacey wanted to spend an afternoon at Mammoth Springs, Arkansas while I was home for the weekend. The plan was to go the afternoon we arrived and take a picnic lunch. That day turned out to be too windy to take the baby out so we didn't go. Saturday turned out much nicer so after I delivered some paintings I had sold we decided it would be a great afternoon for an outing.

All the gals posed for a photo below the dam. From left to right, my sister in law Lis, my niece's friend Rachel, my sister Regina, my niece Danielle, my sister Lacey, my niece (the baby) Nicole, my mom, my niece CeCe, me, and my daughter Heather.

Mom said someone needs to have their photo taken with the water in the background so I obliged!

Regina and Lacey getting Nicole settled into her stroller for her day in the park

While all the girls enjoyed walking around the park the boys all went downstream and went fishing! My husband Marty:

My brother Levi:

My brother in law Greg:

My hunny and me!

Levi and me

what a couple of goofballs!

Only ONE MORE POST until the giveaway! Be watching for it!!!

Mini Me

2010-04-14T21:35:00.001-05:00

Meet CeCe:

CeCe is one of my nieces in Missouri. Her biological father is my baby brother Levi. I think it was 2007 the first time I met CeCe, and it wasn't much time before that I even knew of her existence. As soon as we met there was a connection. Mom told me then that CeCe doesn't often have much to do with people she doesn't know. The first time I met her a bunch of us took one of our family road trips to go exploring and taking photos. She came along and even hiked next to me for much of the way.

Easter weekend my family spent one afternoon at Mammoth Springs, Arkansas.

Levi and CeCe:

I loved that Levi spent the WHOLE day with us! He was so much fun and what a goofball!

Some of my family tell me CeCe is a mini me, only with red hair. I tend to agree with them!

My mom and CeCe:

CeCe absolutely adores my mom! Who can blame her??!!!!

And of course this "mini-me" likes to borrow Mema's camera!!!

I am sure enjoying getting to know this little girl bit by bit on my visits back home!

PS, only 2 more posts until the big giveaway!!!

Gabby B's Rocked New Braunfels!

2010-04-11T20:50:00.004-05:00

A nearby clothing boutique where I LOVE to shop (they have GREAT prices by the way!), is Gabby B's. Periodically the trendy boutique puts on fashion shows in which the models are employees, friends, and customers of the store. Friday night I participated in my third show. My first show was blogged about here.

The awesome folks at William Edge Salon graciously did the hair and makeup for all the models. They did an amazing job!

There's something fun and exciting about having pros make your hair and makeup beautiful, putting on great clothes, and strutting down a long runway to show off beautiful clothes! Especially for this shy, awkward, likes-to-stick-to-the-background- gal! Kudos to Jennifer and the whole Gabby B's gang for making 25 women feel beautiful every time!

My husband Marty played photographer for the evening for me. Models choose their outfits for the show with help from sales associates at the stores. As soon as I put this one on, I loved it!

Some of the other amazing models:

None were more fabulous than Gabby B's owner, Jennifer:

We just loved Susie! Such a sweet gal and she looked gorgeous in the show!

A hit among all the models! Perfectly put together in her stunning dress and gorgeous hair!

PS, Only THREE Posts Away from my First Ever Giveaway! Be Watching for it!!!

We Are Family

2010-04-10T20:47:00.000-05:00

Easter Sunday was the first time since Thanksgiving 2007 when ALL my siblings and mom were together for a holiday. My brothers bailed shortly after lunch, before the cameras were launched so all us girls had group photos taken.

What a bunch of goofiness! With all the cameras going off we were never sure which direction to look!

Oh look! We finally got it right! What a gorgeous family we are! lol

Be watching closely! This is blog post #696 for me. In honor of my 700th blog post and my 3rd year of blogging I'll be announcing my first giveaway very soon! Don't miss out!

Flyin' high, high, I'm a bird in the sky...

2010-04-07T20:41:00.004-05:00

Sorry, this photo just screams an old Abba song, don't ya think??? You know the one, the one whose chorus says:

"And I dream I'm an eagle

And I dream I can spread my wings
Flyin' high, high, I'm a bird in the sky
I'm an eagle that rides on the breeze
High, high, what a feeling to fly
Over mountains and forests and seas
And to go anywhere that I please"

Ok, now that I have Abba tunes stuck in your head (please don't throw rocks at me..I happen to LIKE Abba), on to the photos!

My mom shares with me a love of photography. She and her cousin JoAn can often be found scouring the countrysides of Missouri and Arkansas searching for photo ops. One such adventure found them near a meadow where an eagle keeps her nest. The have refused to share the location of this eagle with anyone. But when I was in MO for Easter weekend, my mom shared the location with me and took me there for eagle photos of my own. That was so cool! I found myself in the middle of a field, way out in what I call the boonies, watching an eagle on her nest. I stood there in one of the most peaceful places and listened to water running nearby as I snapped photo after photo, trying to capture a great shot of the eagles, yes plural, flying nearby. I so wanted to get closer and get better shots. But I stayed my distance and captured what I could. However the photos turned out, I cherish the memory of my outing with my mom. It was just she and me, cameras in hand, enjoying our favorite hobby together. What a morning that was for me!

Enjoy browsing the photos while I go scrounge up my Abba cd's. For some reason I'm in the mood to give a listen....and as always to see the rest of the photos click on any of these to be taken to the gallery where they all are stored.

...but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31

What Spring in Texas Looks Like!

2010-04-06T19:41:00.000-05:00

Meet Nicole

2010-04-06T06:43:00.006-05:00

Easter weekend we drove to Missouri to have Easter with my family and to meet the newest member of the family. My sister Lacey had baby Nicole on March 11. Oh what a precious tiny bundle she is!!! We stayed with Mom for the weekend and Lacey and Nicole spent one night there with us too. The next morning gave me lots of photo ops!!! Here are a few of my faves:

"Nanny nanny boo boo!"

What a precious, precious baby!!! It is going to be so hard to live so far from her! Thankfully we will be seeing the family again in June. God sure did bless Lacey and Casey with a beautiful baby girl!

Save the Last Dance

2010-04-01T06:35:00.000-05:00

It seems I've blogged many many of my daughter's dance events. This week brought with it her final performance with her high school dance team. Friends teased me to "take your kleenex with you!" It was the annual Spring Showcase in which the dancers and cheerleaders showcase this year's competition routines. And I shed no tears...almost...well none....until the final slideshow at the end of the evening. A slideshow of photos of both teams throughout this past year. Then the tears did fall.

Heather is in the back row, far left:

Heather's in the very center, back row. Hurts to even think about kicking my leg that high!!!

Modern dance to "Crayola"

Heather says she's through dancing and only has plans to study music in college. I am waiting to see if she misses it the first year and changes her mind....in the mean time I sure have loved watching her dance all these years and look forward to what her college years bring. Good luck Heather! We love you and are so proud of you!

Black and White

2010-03-30T06:55:00.001-05:00

As we were driving home from a recent road trip and on the lookout for wildflowers, we spied zebras behind a fence in a nearby town:

As always click on any photo to see it larger/and to be taken to the gallery where all these photos are.

Best Buds

2010-03-15T07:24:00.001-05:00

Saturday I took Heather and her best bud Ryan for a photo shoot for some of their senior photos. I'll post their individual shots later. These are some silly ones I captured while we were out and about:

One Tough Decision

2010-02-26T06:01:00.002-06:00

Anyone who's been reading here long, or who knows me well, knows I love babies. And knows the heartache and pain of years ago when we knew there'd be no more babies for us.

Sixteen years ago, when Heather was two, Marty and I began discussing having another baby. We still had not succeeded in getting pregnant by the time Heather was 3 and we were living in Missouri. We began purchasing ovulation test kits and keeping charts. By the time Heather was 4 and there was still no pregnancy and I was sure I was reading the ovulation tests wrong because I could see nowhere that indicated ovulation, we made an appointment with an infertility specialist in Arkansas (45 miles from home). My doctor first recommended testing for Marty. She explained that in many cases the problems with infertility are with the man and low sperm counts...and that test would be easiest and least expensive. The first thing ruled out was the problem definitely did not lie with Marty but with me. She had me continue with temperature charts each day and scheduled a special x-ray so she could see if there were any visible problems. Continued temperature charts revealed I was not ovulating at all (not producing any eggs). The day of the special x-ray arrived and with it, much apprehension. I'd been told what to expect before, during and after. After the x-ray I experienced the worst cramps I've ever had in my life. Thankfully they only lasted that day. Later, test results showed my left tube was completely blocked and I was told that sometimes there is no explanation and that just happens in some cases. My doctor encouraged me, saying that pregnancy is still completely possible with only one tube. Due to the lack of ovulation, she prescribed Clomid and explained the possibility of multiple births, usually twins, with the use of fertility drugs. I began to take the Clomid and excitedly continued plans for a new baby. We were so certain this was going to work. We chose names, chose items for decorating a future nursery, etc.
Once a month I drove to Arkansas to have my blood drawn check my hormone levels. My progesterone was extremely low. I was underweight. I had only the use of one fallopian tube. The odds were not looking good, but we were still encouraged. We had one child, we were sure we'd be able to have more. Each month I returned to Arkansas to meet with my doctor and go over temperature charts. Even with the Clomid I didn't always ovulate.
Month after month of sex by temperature charts took its toll. Months beginning with extreme emotional highs knowing this was going to be the month, and ending with such sadness when it turned out not to be took its toll. This went on every month for a year. At the end of that year we decided the emotional turmoil thinking the drugs were going to work was just too much. We decided such things as invitro fertilization, etc., weren't for us. We didn't give up, but we did give up the temperature charts, etc. We decided if it was God's plan for us to have another baby, He'd send us one and we then realized what a miracle Heather really was. We continued to pray for and asked our family and church family to pray for another baby.
Years later, when we moved to Texas we began to change our prayer. We asked God if another baby wasn't His plan for us to change our heart and to take the desire for another baby away. Eventually we really did find contentment with the size of our family.
Heather is now 18 and we've been looking forward to our empty nest and making plans. I've been looking forward to the time I can spend with my husband that we've really never had before. We married young and started our family very young. I was looking forward to having an empty nest "while I'm still young enough to enjoy it" is what I'd tell people. :0)
Then 2 weeks ago we questioned everything. 2 weeks ago I received a phone call asking me to pray about and consider adopting triplet infants. I cried and cried that afternoon after receiving that call. I asked "Why NOW???" I would go from being very excited about the possibility of starting over again one moment, to wanting to continue with our empty nest plans the next. I began to wonder if God was answering our long ago prayers in His time, not ours. I wondered which direction God really was sending us this time. We asked family and church family to join us in praying for God's direction. We knew we were in no financial position to add 3 more people to our household. But we also knew, if this WAS God's plan, He'd find a way to make it possible. So we prayed. And I cried. I cried for what could be, for what could be lost, and for those long ago prayers. I prayed for the triplets. I prayed for their mother. I prayed for whoever their family would be. I prayed for a clear answer from God what He wanted us to do.
Those long ago desires that I thought were long gone had crept up again. Friends told us we were crazy to even consider it. Some refused to speak of the issue at all. Some reminded us we'd be 58 years old when the babies graduate high school. Most told us we couldn't afford 3 babies. But soooo many more became excited, and even hopeful. It was actually refreshing to see and hear excitement for what could be.
A week later we got our answer. The triplets' mother was keeping the babies. At first I was heart broken. I had begun to hope for babies again. But as time has passed I know that this was for the best because God showed us without a doubt His plan in this situation. We can move ahead with our plans for our empty nest. I can without a doubt, know that God's blessing is upon us as we plan and make time for the two of us.

I'm Behind Again

2010-02-15T21:48:00.005-06:00

I know, I know, I'm so far behind in blogging. I have soooo many photos and events to blog! I've been spending what free time I can find painting antique windows such as this one:

I painted these three just since Saturday. And I've sold one of them, and another unpainted one just like this one:

On top of that I have 2 potential upcoming commissioned projects.

On top of all that, our family is praying about some major life-changing decisions. I'm not ready to go into that, but prayers are appreciated!

In the mean time, most late nights and early mornings can find me in my home office painting away....

Ashley's Portraits...Part 2

2010-02-07T17:16:00.004-06:00

Yesterday found me behind my camera lens for the morning capturing these photos of Heather's beautiful friend Ashley. I'm thinking I'm really really glad I don't have to be the one choosing which of these prints to order!

As always, click on any photo for the link to the gallery to ALL the photos!

The Debutante Ball

2010-02-02T17:24:00.003-06:00

The night we've been waiting for finally arrived Saturday. All day Friday was spent decorating and preparing for the ball (that blog post is yet to come!). Heather and the other 15 debutantes arrived early at the Coliseum with ball gowns in hand to finish getting ready for their big night.

There was last minute primping in front of the mirror...

making sure the dress had no wrinkles....

..and then the introduction...

....the oh so graceful bow....

...the presentation...

...and the waltz!
(Heather waltzing with her daddy)

(waltzing with her escort Ryan)

All 16 Mid Texas Symphohy Debutantes:

Stay tuned for more photos of this enchanting night to come soon!

Decorating for the Debutante Ball: The Painting

2010-01-23T01:27:00.003-06:00

Recently I have had the privelege of working with 2 other artists on a project for the upcoming Debutante Ball. In the lobby of the Coliseum will hang 2 very large sections of canvas fabric, upon which we've painted this scene:

Myself, Norma, and Cathy in front of our finished project!

It has been a joy working with these ladies and being able to watch other artists and how they work.

Cathy tackled the sky as I worked on the foreground below her.

Cathy and Norma working hard!

Norma making the water look just right!

Cathy took a step back to see how it all looked

Be watching for photos of the ball, which is only a week away and we'll be dancing the night away! I've already warned the ladies I'll be having a photo snapped of us once again in front of these panels, but next time we'll be all dressed up and at the ball looking our very best!

Should make a great contrast to these photos in our absolute grungiest!

1, 2, 3..1, 2, 3...1, 2, 3....

2010-01-12T06:44:00.003-06:00

Sunday afternoon found all 3 of us learning to waltz for Heather's upcoming debutante ball.

First Heather and the other debutantes learned how to perform their bow:

Here the dads and escorts lined up to begin learning the basic waltz and the box step:

As the girls were learning to waltz the dance teacher reminded us all that Ginger Rogers did everything Fred Astaire did...but she did it backward and in high heels!

The debutantes lined up to learn their steps. They practiced while wearing their hoops so they, their dads, and their escorts could practice with some of all the excess fabric the girls will be wearing the night of the ball:

Heather and her escort (and one of her best friends) Ryan:

Of course my favorite moment was when Heather and her dad began to waltz together and before they danced she gave him the biggest hug:

Ryan learned the appropriate way to "cut in" on Heather and Marty's waltz:

Heather and the dance instructor Mrs. Amanda. Amanda was a student teacher at the dance studio where Heather danced when we first moved to Texas:

10 for 2010

2010-01-07T07:07:00.003-06:00

Ten things I'm going to strive to achieve in 2010 (Hats off to my cousin Carmen for I am simply copying her post title!)

1. Read my Bible daily. This was brought about by our church as we've all been challenged to COMMIT to read each day and given a One Year Bible with daily Bible readings for each day of the year. What a difference I've seen in my family after only a few days! Can you imagine what 365 days will do???

2. Get organized. Seriously. My life is a mess and I've got to get it on track before I drive not only myself bonkers but everyone around me.

3. Reprioritize. God. Family. Job. Church. Everything else.

4. Save money. Get back on a budget and stick to it. Rebuild the emergency fund.

5. Paint. More! It has felt wonderful getting back into painting and artwork. I've set a goal and booked the local coffee shop for the month of October to sell/display painted antique windows. So now, I've got to get painting!

6. Think positive. A positive attitude and frame of mind is contagious. It's also key to better overall well being. When I have a positive outlook I just feel better about everything in general. When I don't, it's easy to let things spiral out of control. Time to take control and put things into perspective.

7. Keep taking pictures. Keep striving for better photos and keep learning how to get the best shots in even the most difficult lighting situations.

8. Drink more water. I'm not ready to give up my sodas yet but I do know I need to drink less of them and more water. I have even begun to order water at restaurants (sometimes). Saves money too!

9. Let go. My daughter is 18 years old and will head off to college this fall. Time to let her spread her wings. While I may not always agree with her decisions/choices, they are hers to make. This one may be my hardest obstacle.

10. Get fit. I know exercise is important that's why it's on this list. It's at the bottom of the list because I do know that if I set too many goals and can't achieve them I'll feel like I've failed. This one made it to the list because I know it's important, but it's #10 because I know I have other things that I have GOT to work on before I can get to this one. I'm tackling these things one at a time to make some big changes in my life.

What are your goals for 2o10? Post yours too and comment here so I can come see what you've set for yourself.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-01-06T06:43:00.001-06:00

Happy Wordless Wednesday! For more, click here.

Bring on 2010!

2010-01-04T21:30:00.002-06:00

We celebrated New Year's Eve with friends and stayed to ring in the new year, complete with a bonfire and fireworks. Happy 2010! May your new year be blessed and may you look forward with a positive outlook and strong resolutions to improve your life and character.

The first thing the three of us have committed to do in 2010 is to read through the Bible. Our church challenged its members to make the commitment to read every single day. If the commitment (promise) was made, a one year Bible was furnished. So far so good, we're on the 4th day and we haven't missed a day yet. What a difference this will make in the life of each of us, our family, our church family and who knows what else!

Christmas Lights at Windcrest

2009-12-28T23:01:00.002-06:00

Each year our family tries to find a night to drive around looking at Christmas light. My friend Kendra recommended driving over near San Antonio to see the lights at Windcrest. I am so glad we took her advice! We certainly saw some beautiful displays. Here are photos of a few of my favorites:

This house was awesome! The lights were set to music and the line of cars waiting to drive past this one was very long, but so worth the wait.

I loved the decorations outside this house and it appeared from what we could see of the windows the inside must have been spectacular as well!

I absolutely fell in love with the Santa on this porch!

Christmas Day 2009

2009-12-27T07:32:00.003-06:00

I hope you and yours had a blessed Christmas Day! I know we did. Tradition at our house has us waking on Christmas morning to find what Santa left in our stockings. Anyone can grab his/her stocking as they wake and it is not necessary to wait upon the rest of the household to awaken to do so. The wrapped Christmas gifts are another story. Those have to wait until everyone is up and ready.

When Heather was little she'd wake at the crack of dawn, (or earlier!)and want to open gifts. Now that she's a teenager she's usually the last to get up.

Heather wrapped one of my gifts with so much tape scissors were necessary!

Marty as he unwrapped his gift from Heather:

Digging in to my box from Missouri!

We added some notes to some of Heather's gifts so she had some reading to do!

Marty and I searched and searched until we found the perfect gift we had in mind for Heather. We wanted her very first diamond to come from us:

Marty's family joined us for Christmas dinner and more gifts:

Marty's twin brother Mike joined us from Iraq via skype on the computer. The highlight of our Christmas day was listening to Mike read us the Christmas story from Matthew and Luke:

My sister in law Debbie, my niece Cheyene, and my nephew Tony:

My mother in law began a tradition a few years ago in which each Christmas day she draws the name of a family member to receive next year's "Gifts from Granny." She lavishes that person with many gifts, most of which are gag gifts that must be opened as they make their way to the big gift. This year was my niece Cheyenne's turn:

Cheyenne and Heather cleaning up:

I made everyone an ornament. Here is Billie with hers:

I think Tony loves his gift from Granny! She folded money into the shape of shirts so he could choose some new shirts for himself:

Merry Christmas Everyone!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-12-23T07:30:00.000-06:00

For more wordlessness click here.

Photo Story Friday: Sugar and Spice

2009-12-18T23:59:00.001-06:00

I took Friday off to catch up on some housework and prepare for hosting my family on Christmas Day. On top of that, I had a photo session for this beautiful baby girl, Elizabeth. This is my first infant portrait session so it was a freebie so I could put into practice some ideas I had. I sure enjoyed this session and snapped a few photos I love and hope her mommy does too!

Elizabeth receives a kiss from her mama, Lanie:

So precious

And yes, what photo session of a little girl is complete without borrowing my daughter's first tutu???

When I saw this tiny foot peeking out from the blanket I couldn't resist snapping a photo of it

Such a precious gift place beneath the Christmas tree!

Such bright beautiful eyes!

Sights like this just make you want to pick her up and cuddle her, don't they?

What a sweet sweet photo shoot! Thank you Lanie for loaning me your precious baby girl for photos!

Click the link below to see more Photo Story Friday posts:

Hosted by Cecily and Honey Mommy

PhotoStory Friday~Winter in Texas

2009-12-10T21:48:00.002-06:00

Here in South Texas we generally experience pretty mild winters compared to folks farther north, but let me tell you, after days and days of 100 plus temperatures all summer long it doesn't take much of a drop in the temps to make us whine! When I say "I'm freezing" friends and family up north say things like "what did it drop to 50???" They laugh because while we sit in the 30's they are in the single digits, some dealing with snow, and some even having ice on the INSIDES of the windows of their houses. I've been THAT cold, and there is a REASON I moved to Texas. Some days I might miss playing in the snow, but I don't ever want to be THAT cold again! So yes, I will continue to whine and complain when it drops below 70 here (hey, what can I say?! I'm a fair weather kind of gal!)

With that said, it may come as a shock to you (it came as a shock even to me!), that when it SNOWED here last week I was excited! Yes! Excited! I even went outside to watch it fall, and even went out to take some pictures of it. Granted it was very hard to even see the flakes fall, and granted none ever even came close to covering the ground, but when it's been almost 10 years since I've played in the snow, the possibility of it was indeed exciting!

Look closely! There really are snowflakes falling from the sky!

Look even closer, there really are some snowflakes on the ground. Hurry, they won't last long and they'll melt away!

And the best thing about winter....I get to dig out all my cute boots and sweaters! It won't be long and spring will be here so even though many days are still 50 degrees, I'm wearing the furry boots anyway!

Click the link below to play along with PhotoStory Friday or to check out everyone else's posts. Happy Friday People!

Hosted by Cecily and Rachael

Wordless Wednesday

2009-12-09T00:01:00.000-06:00

For more wordlessness, click here.

Christmas on the Riverwalk

2009-12-08T00:05:00.002-06:00

We always enjoy going to see various Christmas lights displays in our town and surrounding areas. It seems to have become a tradition to walk along the Riverwalk the weekend after Thanksgiving to see the lights there. These are some of my favorite photos taken this year as we strolled with family members who were in town from Wyoming.

Come, stroll along with me. Can you hear the carolers sing as they float by in one of the boats? Can you catch a bit of the excitement of Christmas as you see the amazing lights?

Oh Christmas Tree

2009-12-07T06:50:00.004-06:00

For the past 2 years I have decorated 2 Christmas trees in our home. We have a tall artificial tree we place in front of the living room windows each year with all of our special ornaments on it and 2 years ago we purchased a tall skinny rustic looking tree to put in the dining room. This year after watching a Christmas movie together as a family, all 3 of us realized it had been 15 years since we put up a "real" tree and that we had never once all 3 gone out to choose and cut our tree together. So, we decided then and there to do that for this Christmas.

The Saturday after Thanksgiving we all got up and headed off to Tannenbaum Farms to choose a tree for the house, and also a tree for the church to decorate to display downtown in Central Park.

Here Marty is cutting the tree for our house:

And this is the tree we selected for the church:

After getting them wrapped and secured atop the Suburban we headed home to await decorations.

This is the church's tree decorated in Central Park:

I decided the real tree needed natural looking and homemade ornaments. Great concept, right?! But in reality, it meant a lot of work. Heather and I spent an entire evening making these ornaments. I spent time over the next few days attaching ribons to hang these and attaching ribbons to pine cones for the tree:

Here is the tree in the living room:

And here it is lit up:

I decided I couldn't bear not to have the regular tree up with all our special ornaments so I put it in the corner of the retreat off the master bedroom:

And then we have the tree in the dining room containing all the gingerbread and apple ornaments, among all the Santa Clause figurines:

Stay tuned for further Christmas festivities we've been checking out!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-12-02T07:43:00.000-06:00

For more wordlessness click here.

The Beach..Yes the Beach...in NOVEMBER!

2009-12-01T06:53:00.003-06:00

My brother in law Rick brought his fiancee to Texas for Thanksgiving. Sandy has never been to any ocean and wanted to go to the beach. Instead of shopping on Black Friday, we all got up early, piled in the Suburban and headed to Port A for the day. I was not counting on it being warm enough to swim at all so I was not disappointed when the day turned out cool.

We waded in the waves and walked up and down the beach. Sandy did get more wet than the rest of us when a wave caught her off guard.

We took many family photos with the beach as our background, something I've always wanted to do. Despite the chill in the air, we all had a great time!

The day turned out pretty gray, but I like the photos anyway!

Heather and me. I guess she's officially taller than me now...or maybe the picture is just crooked! Yeah, that's it!

Freddie and Billie (my inlaws)

Billie saw this photo and wondered when she got so small next to her boys! Marty is the oldest (and smallest of all 4 boys) and Rick is the youngest.

Heather walking the beach with her daddy.

Awwww so in love! Rick and Sandy

My hunny and me. Thanks Sandy for snapping this photo!

Of course best of all for some of us was the day ended with a trip to the Crazy Cajun for their famous "Hungry Cajun" dish (basically shrimp boil). Yummy!

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-11-30T07:21:00.003-06:00

I have been neglecting my blog again! But what fun we've been having in the mean time!!! Marty's youngest brother Rick and his fiancee came to Texas to spend Thanksgiving with the family. We had not seen Rick since my father in law's funeral in 2003. That's much too long to go without seeing family!

We have so enjoyed our visits with Rick and Sandy. Thursday was Thanksgiving at my mother in law's house. I was asked to make Pumpkin rolls and deviled eggs. No problem. Wednesday night after work and after church I began making the pumpkin rolls while my sweet husband cleaned our house. I made the pumpkin rolls and was still feeling energetic, hubby was still scrubbing our room and the guest room so I just kept cooking. I made cheesy tortilla roll-ups (Yum!) and munched until the wee hours of the morning. Then I decided to use up the last of the pumpkin and make some pumpkin bread. I think I crawled into bed sometime between 1 and 2 am. It's been a really long time since I've wanted to bake goodies and I enjoyed every minute of it.

Thanksgiving was made extra special this year in being able to share it with Rick and Sandy, my sister in law Debbie and her children Cheyenne and Tony, and my mother in law Billie and father in law Freddie, and my brother in law Shad, his wife Mari, and their three children Anna, Logan and Olivia.

We were even able to share part of the day with my brother in law Mike via Skype on the computer. What a blessing technology was to our entire family that day! It was the first time Marty, Heather, Billie and Freddie or I have been able to use Skype to talk to Mike. He has been in Iraq for many months and we all miss him. There were many tears and much laughter as we all gathered in the hallway to get a glimpse of and talk to Mike. Later in the day we were even able to see and talk to my nephew Chris in Arizona. He is to be deployed to Afghanistan for 4 months. We are so proud of both Mike and Chris!

Mike on Skype! Gotta love technology!!!

Marty and Rick talking to Mike on Skype:

Heather and Granny (Billie) talking to Chris on skype. It was so good to be able to SEE him looking so happy and hear his voice.

As has become the norm when we are at Freddie and Bilie's, horseshoes were pitched.
Me, Shad and his daughter Anna:

And on the other end, Freddie and Tony (my nephew Logan is the little one off to the side):

Shad with his wife Mari:

Rick carved the turkey:

You know Granny loves it when she gets to cook for so many of us that another table has to be added!

Debbie and Cheyenne:

After dinner the little ones could be found playing in the piles of leaves.
Logan:

Olivia:

Anna:

I hope each of you had a Thanksgiving that was as blessed as ours!

Just for Fun

2009-11-24T07:03:00.002-06:00

These are from a recent photo shoot and these are a few that just make me smile:

2009 Texas Renaissance Festival

2009-11-19T06:50:00.005-06:00

Each year we try to find a day we can drive over to enjoy the Texas Renaissance Festival. This year we decided to go on my birthday. Heather had promised her friend Ryan a trip over there for his birthday as well. Heather's friend John is home for R&R from serving in Iraq and joined us for the day too.

Saturday morning found us at my mother in law's getting finishing touches put on my costume she so graciously made for me.

It is around a 3 hour drive from here to Plantersville, TX where the Renaissance Festival grounds are. As we stopped at Bucees on the interstate not far from home for a pit stop and gas I was hesitant to go inside in my costume. I knew if we were closer to Plantersville I would not seem an oddball, but still being a couple of hours from there was sure I'd be the only one in costume in the store. I had to laugh when I walked in the store and the first thing I spotted were 3 more Renaissance costume-clad folks! We all looked at each other and grinned as we walked past. It was obvious our destinations were the same!

Upon entering the grounds of the festival, this year there was no wench to kiss the mens' cheeks like there was last year. We were so hoping to surprise John and Ryan with that this year and I had my camera ready, but no such luck.

The grounds where the festival are held each year are beautiful and nestled in the trees in an area known as the Piney Woods.

There was so much to see and do. From the many shows to choose from.....

the tantalizing aromas of various foods.....

Heather would not cooperate this year and let anyone photograph her eating a turkey leg. To see it you'll have to visit last year's blog.

magnificent costumes....

...and even period craftsmen at work:

We found a shopkeeper who let me try on one of her hand made costumes...AND take a picture in it. Most of the costume shops have signs everywhere that say "No Cameras!"

A trip to the Renaissance Festival is not complete without a ride on the swings:

By the end of the day we all felt like these folks:

Ryan, Heather and John:

We had a great time and what a fabulous way to spend my birthday! We are already planning next year's trip and have decided although we loved this trip, we enjoy even more going when they are having their Celtic Christmas after Thanksgiving. Next year should find us at the Renaissance Festival instead of shopping on the day after Thanksgiving.

The Carters

2009-11-16T06:11:00.002-06:00

I seem to have neglected my blog again of late. Time flies and has been filled with so many things to do that blogs never seem to get posted. I guess I could sleep less and blog more...but I'm thinking the sinus infection I've been battling would then take over and that would not be a good thing.

Recently the music minister of our church and his wife asked me to take their portraits so they could send out those nifty little 4x8 Christmas cards that seem to be so popular. I was honored to have been asked. A couple of Saturdays ago (told you I'm behind on blogs!) I arrived at their home to try to capture them with as many of their critters as would cooperate. Turns out none of the cats would cooperate at the same time, nor would they come around when the horses were ready to be photographed. Despite that, I still think we got some shots they like. Here are just a few of my favorites.

I LOVE how this one turned out!