Pasando

Notes of Me & You

2012-02-20T09:02:00.000-05:00

Me & You, 52 are musing over the letter "N" today.

Love for you to see the final diptych!

You can see more interpretations here as well as add your own.

Have a good week!

{Thanks to Fuzzimo for the notebook image and for a few crafty people on Deviant Art that supplied the tape strip and coffee stain brushes. I wish I could remember their names, horrible crediting, I know.}

Which One of Her Would Be Queen?

2012-02-19T09:18:00.000-05:00

Found

2012-02-17T15:28:00.000-05:00

One of the exciting things about unpacking has been discovering little treasures like the photo below. For years now I have been packing things I didn't have a place for but knew I wanted to keep and use in my next home, a bigger home... the "too special to shove in a corner" treasures. And now that we are here I am able to rediscover linens my mother sent to me from various travels, dishes that were given to us on our wedding day, and photos and artwork that have been lying snug between tissue paper, hidden in boxes, and forgotten about until now. Every strip of tape that comes off a closed cardboard box could reveal something else that's been waiting to have a new special place, that have been waiting to be fully appreciated.

This is a photo of my Great Uncle Jimmy, my grandmother's brother. What a great shot. I want to know more! He's sitting atop what looks to be a submarine. It really is true I suppose {or I just fit into the cliche of the American teenager} that it isn't until later in life that we start to treasure the past, the history that helped sculpt who we become, what shaped our families, the unique characters that are a small part of us. I wish I would have talked to my grandmother more about her past. I did have many long talks to her about philosophy, dreams she had as a little girl, how she was and what she was passionate about but our chats never really extended into her past...strange I never thought to ask. I am hopeful that through my mom and aunt's memories I will be able to piece a bit more of our history together.

Uncle Jimmy's photo now hangs with others I adore. I am having fun setting up my very own studio space. It's inspiring to see these cameras I used to use, these faces I want to know more about, bits of the past and the way-past together at last. Having my very own space feels very special and is something I feel so grateful for. It's just the special place that these treasures have been waiting for.

Kisses

2012-02-14T12:53:00.000-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

The Me in Me and You

2012-02-13T13:14:00.000-05:00

This week we are up to the letter "M" and "M" is for "Me". I have been wanting to work on some more self portraits to join in Urban Muser's new project and this seemed like the week it was going to happen but alas, still can't seem to get into a routine. It'll happen. For now I am hanging out with Twila a lot and still trying to unpack and fix up our home. Most of the editing I have done lately has been in my phone so although it doesn't meet the prompt for Urban Muser's project it does work out perfectly for Me & You.

So, here's me, first thing in the morning, layered on a photo I took awhile ago I have been itching to use. I gotta be honest though, after I saw what Urban Muser posted for the companion shot I wanted to do one to go with hers. I like the feel of her shot and think it would have paired nicely with another just like it. But that's the thing with these partnered projects I find interesting- I am almost always influenced if I see the other person's shot and so I just stuck with what I made. Although, I may work on something anyways, just to see what would result in the effort. If the mood strikes you we would love to see you in our flickr group!

Have a good week!

Orca Phase

2012-02-11T17:49:00.000-05:00

For the last two weeks or so Twila has really been into Orcas, yes, Killer Whales. The only explanation I can think of for this new passion is Diego. She considers herself quite the animal rescuer although she is usually saving kitties or alligators that have been stuck in the mud. {Funny side note: Even though alligators are one of the thing she saves they usually turn on her once the lasso is removed from saving them. This involves a lot of running and screaming...the same reaction she gets when an erupting volcano suddenly erupts while grocery shopping. But back to the Orcas...} The other day while getting Twila dressed she pointed at a black shirt with white polka dots.

Twila: Heyyyyy, Mama, look! That's an Orca shirt!
Me: A what?
Twila: An Orca shirt!
Being that I hadn't thought of Orcas any time recently I searched my mind for what she could possibly mean. Arca? Orca?? What the hell is an Orca? Ohhhh, an Orcaaa. An Orca? What two year old talks about Orcas?
Me: An Or-ca shirt?
Twila: Yes, an Orca shirt!
Me: Ohhhh, an Orca shirt. Because it's black with white spots?? {Of course! That makes perfect sense!}
Twila: Yeah. It's just like an Orca.
Me: Oh yes. I can see that. I didn't know you knew about Orcas. Did you learn about that from Diego?
Twila: Yes. He's an animal rescuer.
Me: Yes, I know. He's really good at it too. He can talk with the Orcas can't he?
Twila: Yeah. And he helps Orcas. I'm the baby Orca and papa is the Papa Orca. You are the mama Orca.

So, we put the Orca shirt on. She refused to take it off for two days. Two days! She never does that. She hates being dirty and she wanted to keep that shirt on with stains and all. No pajamas, no new clean outfit the next day. Fit at bath time two days later. "Why can't I wear it in the bath??" Seems like a good idea to kill two birds with one stone she suggests. We stood firm. There were tears. We held back our smiles. I had to hide the shirt until it came out of the wash. I was prepared for the next time the shirt was to come off. "Orca shirts need to swim in the laundry sometimes." I was so proud when that logic worked. I had my doubts it would.

She referred to us as "Mama" and "Papa Orca" for a few days. Now she just calls us that when she reads or sees an Orca or anything to do with the ocean. I taped a show about real life Orcas {stupid mom idea number ---} and she hated it. It was too frightening. I think I could have been faster to forward through their meal time fun with seals. Oops. But no harm was done. She's still talking about how one day she will ride a baby Orca while I ride with her on a Mama Orca. These are the types of conversations I have been looking forward to since the day I found out I was pregnant. It's better than I imagined.

Where do I begin?

2012-02-04T16:43:00.002-05:00

It's been over a month since I have had Internet. I know it's really nothing worth complaining over and haven't been but it has been a huge adjustment. Besides my phone to check my email I haven't been on the computer in about 5 weeks. In case you ever wondered how to break an addiction to blogging, do it cold turkey. I was cut off at the source and went through a variety of stages over the last little while. I think it was probably good for me really...to step away and take care of all of the huge changes going on. But I have missed it. So, where to begin?

It's been a long month. I suppose moving is always a lot of work. I think too that there's usually a lot of emotion connected to it to... And I guess it had been so long since our last move that I forgot it would take a little bit longer to settle in than the two weeks I estimated. What made me think two weeks would be sufficient time to move ten years of life with a toddler in tow? Crazy. The month has been filled with fun times and also a lot of challenging ones. But even at our lowest energy and spirits we have been able to recognize or remind each other that we moved into what we feel can be the last home we ever own in Tennessee. It's our dream home and we feel so lucky to be settling in.

As with all new living spaces, we are still discovering things that need to be fixed, tended to, and {gulp} exterminated. The week before last I was referring to our new home as "The Money Pit". Last week I was calling it the "Dateline House" (in reference to a extermination issue I don't even want to go into...let's just say I never knew I had a powerful sense of smell and I now know waaaay more than I ever thought I would about rodents, critters, and my home). It's probably good that I haven't been able to blog because the things I would have written may have been a bit too far on the disgusting side. The bright side? We do know a lot more about our home. Investigating the innards {of the house!} has revealed a lot of things our inspector neglected to mention and things that are now on a long list of to-dos. Not complaining really...the house is great and will be amazing once we have tidied it up and have it in better shape than its ever been in. We also have lucked into some wonderful and honest carpenters, plumbers, etc. so that's super helpful.

So, yes, the house...it's really been consuming. I went from talking to my mom and aunt almost everyday to once a week, my hygiene has gone a bit downhill, but things are shaping up. Our cats have also turned into new cats entirely...it's amazing, who knew they were outgoing and sweet? Like the cats, Twila loves the house so much that whenever we are heading back in the car from somewhere she will say, "Mama, I want to go to the new home. Not the old home, the new home." I think that's a good sign. I'm looking forward to sharing more soon. It's nice to be getting into a new routine. I am looking forward to catching up here and finding out what I have missed.

This is it!

2012-01-13T14:54:00.000-05:00

We have been moving a lot over the last week or so and this weekend the last of it will go. So in the words of Mr. Jack Bauer, this weekend, we are "going dark". Tonight the computer will be shut and moved and it will probably get a nice long sleep before it's set up again. The time for projects and photos has been put on hold and the transition of our new home has begun. Thanks to everyone who has sent us sweet wishes for the move and the new home. We really do appreciate it.

To my family and friends that think I may be ignoring you: it's busy here. You know, the usual moving stuff- unforeseen repairs, trips back and forth, and with the baby, things are a little differently paced at times. I have been spending some time trying to make Twila's space a little more comfortable so that when she visits the new house she sees her familiar toys, feels comfortable...it must all be a little strange. Here are some images from last night. I had spent the day unpacking and cleaning and then she came upstairs and saw her room. First, she saw some mostly empty bins that had been in the closet of our last house. She was ecstatic. She was looking and squealing at the empty bins like they were the best thing on the planet.

"Ohhh, I love them Mama! Thank you for bringing them here! That was nice. Ooooo, they're so pretty in this corner..." { I love her.}

"Thank you", I said. I'm so glad you like them...and they're even empty. Have you looked in the closet yet?" Then it was Christmas all over again. She spotted all her old friends that have been packed in hiding for weeks.

"Black kitty?! Ohhhh, I loooove black kitty AND THIS! I love this!! LOOK!!" she said pointing as she walked around seeing all the toys. She stared up at the shelf back and forth, back and forth... She went on and on giving hugs and saying hi to all the toys. It was the best and it made me hopeful that the transition will be okay, good even. It's an exciting time...

Clean and Dirty Ideas

2012-01-09T08:04:00.000-05:00

I think I may make this into a magnet for the dishwasher. It seems like such a superfluous thing to add to the house though; seems unnecessary when you can just open the dishwasher, look, and see that the dishes are clean or dirty. But how else could I use these images? I like them and haven't been able to think of a way to display them other than the magnet. There's got to be a way I can use them in the laundry room too. I'm still thinking... Any ideas?? Does anyone use a magnet for the dishwasher or laundry? I have seen them for sale somewhere and think I laughed to myself when I saw it. But I do like cute little things for the house so I am not one to judge. I may just print them up and mat them side by side and hang it in the laundry room. Heeeyyy, there's an idea. Sometimes it just takes a little public ~~rant~~ brainstorming to work things out. Thanks for listening. {smiles}

{Rollover for both images}

Joining The Creative Exchange

Just a little bit further...

2012-01-06T08:27:00.000-05:00

The Happy Place

2012-01-04T17:20:00.000-05:00

Moving doesn't feel as bad this go around...although we do the actual moving this weekend so I may change my mind then. But something about it seems a little less intense this go-around. It could be the place we are going to is an exciting one or perhaps it could be that I am older now and am just able to go through the motions less emotionally. I don't know. But that said, I can't seem to hold a thought for longer than a second. So, while the baby slept today I decided to make something and focus.

You know that scene in The Shining, the one where Jack loses his mind while typing away...The one where you can actually see him check into Locoville? I don't know why that scene puts a smile on my face... Is that sick? Anyways, feeling a bit crazy myself, albeit a good crazy, this is what I made. And now, as I write this last line of the post, I can hear my baby singing herself awake. So, I'm back in my happy place ready to play and pack some more. Here's wishing you a day in your happy place.

Ghost Typing

2012-01-03T09:17:00.001-05:00

I came across this beautiful typewriter the other day. I don't see how it could ever be usable as a typewriter since the keys were all broken and set at different levels. But it was beautiful.

This was shot and edited all in phone. I shot it using the main iPhone camera and then edited using Pic Grunger, and I think I also used Vintage Camera and Lo-Mob.

Speaking of phonography, Me & You shot with the letter "G" in mind, Gathering is our latest prompt. Check it out or better yet, join us!

{Linking with Lisa and the Creative Exchange.}

On the Night of the Fourth Moon

2012-01-02T06:32:00.003-05:00

She arrived on the night of the fourth moon not remembering who she was or where she came from. When the blinding light that woke her from her daze had darkened and her vision cleared, she saw thousands of beings bowing before her.

2011 Recap

2011-12-31T22:58:00.000-05:00

I had so much fun re-capping the year off with Ashley's Memories,Dreams, and Reflections that I thought I would give it a go again this year. Warning: Long post and somewhat mushy.

I Love You
I love him. I love her. Together it's a lot of love...

Still Laughing

My daughters first cell phone shots. These were taken while house hunting. There were so many houses we visited and so many stories that made us laugh. I have really fond memories of searching for our new home...ones that will keep making us smile and laugh for years to come. {A pre-apology for the amount of times I may mention the house in this post. We got it yesterday, it's been almost two years of looking, and well, I'm excited.}

Friends

John and Leslie, Twila's godparents, we love them. Our favorite nights are with them, dining and dancing.

I Was Inspired

My friend John and I started doing some collaborations for the ACoLab. I never would have created anything I made with him if it weren't for his music and vice versa. The themes in the ACoLab continue to push me in new directions and I am really grateful for those who contribute and encourage even more inspiration.

Spring Fever

Travel/Vacation

Summer Days

A Day in My Life

It's really all about spending time with my daughter, priority number one. This year has been a great journey in priorities and thinking about what's really important, what really matters. Although I do relish a good nap time time when I can work on projects. Here we are having tea time and a cookie with the one and only, Cookie Monster.

Autumn Harvest

All Smiles, Family or Home, Celebrate! and Hopes and Dreams

Here's a shot I posted the other day. It was taken right before we went to close on a new home. The house is exciting but it also feels like we are about to start a whole new life together. Life feels good right now and my hope and dream is that it just continues to feel like this.

I'm so excited I can barely stand it!

I haven't posted any photos of the house yet but look at this-a studio to call my own! I'm in Heaven.

Let's Do it Again

I decided that I was tired of hearing myself talk about how I wanted to try selling my art at the downtown farmer's market. This year I did it and loved every second. It was a great place to not only share my work and make some money but also to talk to like-minded people about art and photography. It is one of the best things I have done this year and I look forward to doing it again.

I Miss You

This totally reveals more about myself than I feel comfortable with but it really sums up who I miss and why. My family lives way too far away from me - my mom in California, my aunt in Chile. I miss them everyday but Oovoo really helps us stay in touch, laugh, and be silly together.

Beautiful

I love this image. The setting is beautiful too but in black in white the story seems to take on a different feel...it's more about her than it is the place. I know, I'm her mom. Even though I will always think she is beautiful, in this setting, with the people we were with... the whole memory, for me, is the exact definition of beautiful.

Dress Up

It was her first real Halloween this year. I still think it was exciting for her because everyone told her how excited she should be. But, she loved trick or treating and even more, she loved her rocket costume. She wore it for weeks...even while relaxing at home.

Holidays

I know it doesn't spell out that holiday feeling...or what is at the core of the holiday... but when Twila entered the living room on Christmas morning to see Diego and Baby Jaguar waiting for her it was the BEST. This shot is right after the shot of her kissing Diego and Baby Jaguar and before the shot of her telling them each how much she loves them. Yeah, I know, it's an item that we were suckered into and it's commercialism at its best, but it's so worth it to see her this excited.

My favorite

A new series and so maybe that's why I am so excited by it but there's something I love about this image.

Don't Ever Change

You're fun and a joker, happy and sweet, loving and cute.

Just Because

Thanks to Ashley for the prompts and if you want to play along you can do so here. Thanks to all of you bloggers who continue to inspire. I learned a lot from you this year including how to use textures and actions. Photography will never be the same for me and for that I THANK YOU! Here's wishing you a very happy new year filled with lots of luck, love, and laughs...it sounds corny but really, what more does one need?? Don't say I didn't warn you about the potential mushiness of this post.

Guess what we just bought!!

2011-12-30T14:46:00.000-05:00

A house. A dream of a house. Our dream house.

I am so happy.

What a great way to start the year. I will be even more excited when we can move in in 10 days. But the final paper work is finished and it's all ours, well almost. This feels good, so good. I'll be posting an image sometime soon but here we are, sitting on our new porch, with the previous owner...all feeling positive about what's to come.

Flip & Family

2011-12-28T14:38:00.000-05:00

Time is moving quickly these days. 10 years of life are being packed up into boxes, labeled, and set away for a few weeks from now. Memories I like to remember are being slipped off the wall, placed into bubble wrap, and are now waiting for their turn to be hung or replaced with new memories to come. I feel the last few pages of this chapter being flipped and turned rapidly. And although I feel so great about starting off in our new house I have started to become a wee bit sentimental about leaving.

I am trying to think of creative ways to share the move with Twila too. Anyone done anything creative to excite your little one about packing up? Everyday she asks me to play dollhouse with her. So I have started to pretend that the dolls too are getting ready to move. I place a smaller house next to the bigger house and explain about all the different rooms. I think today I may have some of them start to pack up their belongings and put them in their little car. We'll see. She seems to be handling all the disorder quite well. But how is it she knows exactly which toys are packed off and hard to get to??

I am trying to find a bit of time here and there to keep up with some projects and keep some "me time" going. It's been a challenge. I just use the time when it falls in my lap. Like right now. Baby is remarkably still asleep {first time in a week she slept through the night}, Doug is off to work, hot coffee is in hand... I love these moments. They are perfect reminders that things can be simple when I allow them to be. That said, here are some projects from last week.

I am still loving the Me & You 52 project. Last week we were up to the letter F and so the theme was Flip. This is the shot I used. We have started adding a monthly post to incorporate other people's images from our Flickr group. Should you like to join in the fun please do!

I used Picture Show to mirror the image, Vintage Scene to get the tones, Lo-Mob to get the Polaroid frame, and Label Box for the words. I like the way it turned out. Urban Muser's shot is great so be sure to check it out!

Last week was also an ACoLab week. The theme was Family. I wrote a bit about the challenge on the ACoLab post but wanted to share a bit about the image here. I was inspired {as was Joanna} to create a new series I am calling "If the Now and Then Collided". Since my dad passed away/my daughter was born I find myself sometimes drifting into thoughts about the what-ifs and wondering what it would be like to share some moments between them. So, I decided to start a series of images using images from the past and from the present to make new what-if memories. This image below is of my father, his parents, his sister, and a little girl I don't know {going to have to ask my aunt}. I added an image of Twila from this year when we were at the beach. She had so much fun playing in the sand. I know my dad would have loved to play along with her- wanting to build the tallest castle, laughing at each others ideas. So, why not make it happen? There isn't any reason why my baby can't walk the Golden Gate with my father, play cards with my grandparents, snap photos with my aunt Rosie, or play on her bicycle with my Wela. I added the cabinet card to complete the look and although I think I could match up Twila a bit better I am happy with the idea and result.

New inspirations should be up in the ACoLab by the 5th. I am taking a brief break and trying to brainstorm on some new ideas. I'd love for you to be a part.

Thanks to everyone who's stopped by and left sweet comments or emailed me about the move and transitioning. I'm sorry I have been a bad pen pal lately but hope to pick it up post move. It really does make me smile though so thank you. Hope the last few days of 2011 are treating you all well!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T17:43:00.000-05:00

Merry everything to you and yours no matter what you celebrate this season.
xo
Anika

With Santa a year ago and today

2011-12-21T20:50:00.000-05:00

I love her.

The lovely things / Why I haven't been blogging

2011-12-20T14:36:00.000-05:00

I love blogging and I love reading other people's blogs...it's inspiring and the connections I have made and make feel unique and special. That said, my time has been elsewhere the last few weeks. I wonder about what's going on with some of you...isn't that weird? But life is feeling good, lucky, and even though December and Christmas may slip by us this year I still feel the joy of the season. Looks like all is good and we will be closing on our new home the last day of the year! So we start 2012 in a very new and very big way, we are excited. ~~Chatty Cathy~~ Twila is full of love and smiles these days. She sings all of the time making songs up and humming to her dolls {Although she really doesn't need her doll(s)...a pen and her finger will make fine substitutes.} So life is good and I hope it is for you too.

A taste of what I have been up to this month...

1. Our new house
2. Twila and Santa. She asked Santa for a snowball and some pieces of ice. I love her.
3. The last of the holiday markets & Etsy. It was/is awesome.
4. A quaint holiday catch up with the ladies. Twila was very entertaining.
5. Ninth annual Hoyos cookie party!
6. Taking time to feel happy and work on some projects.
7. Seeing grandparents after their cantata
8. Fabulous night out with the Hub...our first adult only party in...well, I can't really remember the last time. Yes, I did find myself talking with other parents about our kids. Something I never really saw me doing but it made me quite happy to do so.
9. Love
10. Ama's introduction of Hanukkah
11. My little reindeer outside our favorite Taco House
12. Singing
13. Our first girls day out included her first movie. Her favorite part? The popcorn. Until her lips started to hurt from too much salt. Adorable.
14. Lewis and Louise...getting ready to pack it up and move. They have a love hate relationship with all the boxes.
15. Did I mention we are moving during the holiday season and I am still trying to sell my wares?? Really, it's all good. This year of re-learning priorities and perspective feels so incredibly valuable right now.
16. Dinner with business friends and family.

I hope your hustle and bustle is bringing you joy and happiness.

Oh, and if you get a sec, check out the latest Me & You where we give our takes on Edge.

Three Threes

2011-12-18T12:42:00.000-05:00

It's like sitting on air

2011-12-13T15:30:00.001-05:00

I've been really enjoying the new Me & You, 52. This week the theme was prompted by the letter "D". Here is the image I would have submitted for Divide but didn't because we are going with a square format. I would have cropped this one but I kind of like it the way it's composed in this horizontal layout with the mirroring. To me, it loses the humor/fun if it's just the one square image. So, I am glad I went with this instead. I think our images pair nicely this week. It's surprising that our images seem to match in theme because we don't really discuss what we will be posting ahead of time. Oh, how I love to collaborate.

If you would like to join in the Me & You project please do! We are working on plans to incorporate other people's images on the blog in the near future...still getting our feet wet.

Transparency

2011-12-11T21:03:00.001-05:00

Linking with the Creative Exchange

The Last Market, 2011

2011-12-09T09:31:00.001-05:00

I'm gearing up for the last market of 2011. This Saturday marks the end of my first farmer's market year. I have learned so much. Meeting people, talking about art, getting to know other talented vendors- it's been a lot of fun!

I sold some items I like that I never though would sell too. I think this lesson was the best one of all - just do what I like, be confident in myself and my work, don't be afraid to put myself out there. It's been so nice to know how we all look at things differently and even though something I think is quite personal to me can have a new personal meaning for someone else. I love art.

I knew it was going to be a lot of work to prepare for each market but I don't think I really knew how much work the actual market would be. Setting up, breaking down, not eating, smiling all day... It takes a good two days out of me but it's all worth it. It was nice to meet people from all over the world and it feels really special to know that these little objects I made will have homes with so many different kinds of people. There was the 3D framed ballerina that went to a dancer in Korea, a custom print made for a nice couple in Chicago, a student in Ireland brought home some prints to remind her of Knoxville. It just feels good. This is what I want to be doing; Gaining insight into that was the best part about this whole experience.

If you are around the Knoxville area this Saturday please stop by and say hi! It will be the biggest holiday market the Square has seen to date!

There will be food and craft vendors from 12-7. Should be chilly but that's all the more reason for hot cider and a twirl around the ice-rink. There is a holiday run throughout the morning and afternoon too! It will be a very festive area.

With all my getting ready to move {have I mentioned we got the house?! More on that later!} I have not had much time to set up for the holidays, shop, or feel the season. Although I am trying to do some crafts here and there to get the baby excited for Christmas. But these markets are a nice little dose of some ho, ho, ho.

Hope to see you there!

Cloudy Thought Bubbles

2011-12-07T09:34:00.001-05:00

To me it looked like the beach was deep in thought. Perhaps it was thinking about day and night, night and day.

Photo taken in Kiawah, SC.

Layout courtesy of Pugly Pixel
Linking with the Creative Exchange

Me and You

2011-12-05T07:00:00.002-05:00

I'm very excited to announce a new project, Me & You, 52! One of my favorite bloggers, Urban Muser and I have started a new diptych project using only images taken from our phones. Every Monday we will pair our images to a word inspired by the alphabet.

I am very excited to be collaborating again. I'm even more excited to be working with a blogger/photographer I have admired for awhile. I especially love her cell shots. She seems to have a knack for capturing the essence of a simple moment...one that could easily be overlooked but because of her shot {and the way in which she shoots} it's like I am there, witnessing through her eyes. So, I suppose, you could say I like her eye.

I like the idea too of having two different women's perspectives from two different locals. There are some great blogs out there that encompass this idea - London vs Paris is a great one as is One Day Apart and Ours et Lapin. We both thought that a diptych project would be fun and to make it something special, why not just use our phones? Just using cell images seems appropriate too since we met through Phonography.

B is for

BREAKFAST

Urban Muser {Pudding Camera, PS Express}/Anika {Hipstamatic}

Ever since I stopped doing my weekly Phonography posts I have felt a bit of a void. I looked forward to seeing other people's images, getting inspired, and being introduced to new apps. Plus, thinking about taking cell shots more often {because I had to} kept me shooting and goal oriented. The other project that came to an end that I miss is Miss Match. That was a collaborative project that never failed to inspire and was a great way to meet new artists. Plus, the blog was pretty and I like eye candy, who doesn't?! Collaborating is one of my favorite things to do and so without Miss Match it was harder to come by. I still have plans to evolve the ACoLab into more of a hands on collaborative site but for now, I consider the void filled!

Please come and take a look at our new project and if you feel inspired join the fun!

On my way to pet sitting...

2011-11-29T08:48:00.000-05:00

...I passed by this warehouse. I drive by it often but suppose I had never driven by it when the air was a bit crisp and a little misty, or at this time of day. It stood out as different in that moment and I felt compelled to pull over and take a shot. The light on the door with that staircase-it just seemed so simply beautiful and quiet to me.

I will be honest, I didn't regret forgetting my camera at home. I had my phone and I was excited to see what it would do in this light. I shot this using Hipstamatic and then pumped it up with Dynamic Light using a few different preferences to get more grain and blurred edges...to keep that warehouse grit!

Playing with Middle C

2011-11-27T16:46:00.000-05:00

I had a lot of fun the other day while enjoying a Thanksgiving lunch at a friend's house. It was great food, company, and even some time to snap some images around their home. The have a beautiful piano in their entry room. Here are some shots of Middle C. All of these photos were taken with my cell phone.

Oh!! I got a new iPhone 4S. My husband and I were tired of not being able to use our phones as actual phones. We love the camera and tuner apps but sometimes you just want to make a good old-fashioned phone call. So now we actually talk in our living room! Whoa...call us fancy!

This image plus this image equals

this image.

{Hipstamatic,Picture Show, Dynamic Light, PicGrunge, and Blender}

Shamless Promotion Day 2 - The multi-purpose calendar

2011-11-26T14:20:00.000-05:00

I made a few calendars this year for the farmer's market, the Etsy shop, and to give away as gifts. I made a version that is a standard desk top calendar but then I wanted to make a calendar that's multi-purpose. I cringe throwing away a calendar because I usually buy a calendar for it's art. It's a shame to just recycle or throw it away when the month is up.

So for this calendar, I took the images that seemed to be the favorites of 2011 and printed them at a standard framing size of 3.5x5 inches. On the back of each image is a printed postcard all ready to write upon and send. The bottom half of the 5x7 calendar is a little note taking area. It's the gift that keeps on giving!

Although the calendar is marketed as a desk-top calendar, it can fit into a standard 5x7 frame. I actually have slipped my calendar into a 5x7 magnetic sleeve and have it on my fridge {okay, and my filing cabinet}. The image shown here isn't from the multi-purpose calendar but the desk-top version in which I used abstract images from the Memories series.

Hope everyone is having a nice long weekend! Our house guest leaves today, Twila is still coughing through her first real cold {poor bunny}, we are still crossing our fingers about the potential new house {thanks to all of you who sent sweet wishes by the way}, and winter is starting to show itself...let the cozy season begin!

Black Friday/Cyber Monday

2011-11-25T08:35:00.000-05:00

I don't know why I steer away from trying to promote my Etsy shop on my own blog. Why does it seem like I should shy away from shameless promotion when I have the perfect space to do just that?? So, even though I keep it to a minimum I want to announce some current specials...and consider yourself warned that since I am doing the holiday markets downtown this year I may have some items to shout-out about soon...just sayin'. So, with that said, let the weekend ~~shameful~~ shameless promotion begin!

Thankful for....

2011-11-24T11:07:00.000-05:00

* Sweet baby
* Sweet hubby
* ~~Sweet~~ Naughty kitties
* Sweets
* And of course I am very thankful for nice and interesting friends, my blogging buddies, a nice warm home to call home...the simple things, the complicated things... I am thankful that I can feel thankful.

Here's wishing you a happy, safe, relaxing, and fun Thanksgiving. For those of you who don't celebrate Thanksgiving I still wish you all a very happy and thankful day.

AColab #32 - Going with the flow

2011-11-23T18:25:00.000-05:00

I have to be honest, hard. This last one was a challenge. I was working on a piece that followed a whole day of going with the flow...I still like the idea and may work on it some more but I ended up going with this image made up of twenty-some different images. {I think if you click on the image it should make it a bit bigger.}

This is another one of those spots that I pass by, or under as is the case, daily. This time I couldn't handle passing it by without stopping off at home, grabbing my camera, and returning to walk over the underpass. I layered the images so that you could see some of the shuffling and shifting of the birds. But, you know, not one bird moved or flew away the entire time I was shooting. It's a large bridge over 6 lanes of highway. Recently the birds have been gathering here. I suppose they are getting ready to move along to a warmer spot. I took this shot thinking "Wouldn't it look nice to print this out about 8-10 feet long and a few feet high? I could put it along a short hallway or in the bedroom..." After we move from this house I won't be passing by this spot very often so the nostalgia of this scene feels like something I want to bring into my new home.

So, for the ACoLab I was thinking about how going with the flow is the one way to be content. At least, for me it is. Whenever I fight what is, things seem to become a challenge or unpleasant. And since thinking about this ACoLab prompt I have been likening this "going with the flow" attitude to the clouds just doing what they do, blowing in the wind; to water flowing because that's just how it goes. So then I thought about these birds. I thought about how they migrate and go with the flow of the seasons, the wind, the swaying above this highway. I thought about how peaceful they seem and about how even though time moves, life evolves, things change, they seem to stay constant in a sort of way. So then I decided to make a backdrop that changed while the image of these birds remained the constant. I liked the color and black and white to signify past and present. {I recommend watching this in the small window as opposed to full-screen. I couldn't figure out how to make the image full resolution...this is a very small file of the original. But you'll get the gist.}

So, although this isn't what I planned to do, wanted to do, or thought I would produce I played a bit and went with the flow. Like many of the lessons I tend to learn from these ACoLab inspirations this one came at a nice time...a good reminder that life can be simple if I allow it to be, life can be easy if I go along with the flow, be patient and enjoy what is.

Head on over to the ACoLab to see John and Teagan's interpretations of Going With the Flow . Their creations really are something to marvel over and inspire. The next inspiration for the ACoLab is "Found" and is due on the 5th of December. If you would like to participate, please do!

Beachside Pool

2011-11-21T14:03:00.002-05:00

Into the Unknown

2011-11-18T08:14:00.001-05:00

{Linking with Skywatch Friday}

P.S. I love fog.

House Hunting Hobos

2011-11-16T17:04:00.003-05:00

First of all I would like to say that for all of you reading this with your own Hobo Clown collection, I do not judge you. In fact, I think you are pretty awesome. I collect some things that may seem odd to some people so I won't be the one to throw a rock at a glass house if you know what I mean... But, with that said, one thing I will never collect? ~~Hobo clown figurines.~~ Any kind of clown figurine. I wouldn't say I am one of those people who is frightened by clowns per say. But clown always strike me as sad, or maybe it's that their duality strikes me as confusing, too complex, maybe a bit jaded {?}, sneaky...I could go on but let's just say I don't get it - clowns that is. Whenever I see the hobo clown figurine in a thrift store I wonder, "Who collects these? What kind of person collects these??" Again, not in a judgemental way but in a can-I-buy-you-a-drink-so-I-can-find-out-what-you-are-all-about kind of way. I just like characters. People are all so different! I think a hobo clown collector could be a very interesting person to chat with. HOWEVER, when house hunting, NOT something I want to stumble onto. I have to apologize for the poor quality of these shots. Maybe my hand was shaking from nerves that these hobos may come find me in my sleep for taking their photo, maybe I was too excited to find an entire wall of these figurines {especially with a one-eyed penguin, a photo-less frame, and other unique tchochky}, maybe they are blurry because this house also sported some of the most downer, poor lighting I have seen..or not seen as is the case. I wish I could go back to this house just to do some photos with my better camera!

This house was quite "interesting" as my realtor, Mary puts it. She is always so polite. {I love my realtor by the way. If you are in East TN and are in need of an honest, good hearted, friendly, patient, good-humored, and hard working realtor I highly recommend Mary. Send me an email if you would like her info. She even babysits while you look around! Twila loves her and her daughter.} When I saw the hobo with his hand on his forehead in a "woe is me" pose I told Mary that's how I was starting to feel about the search for a new house. We both laughed. One of the other things that was {ahem} interesting was the room with the three televisions stacked on top of each other. I can only assume it was so that a TV could be watched while two other people played video games simultaneously. On the top of the TV was a great vintage family portrait. The house and its tenants are a conundrum!

Like I have said before, it's usually in the houses we know won't work for us that I take the most photos. I start to look at what's inside of the house rather than at the house itself. Twila has started to jump on that bandwagon as well. Here are a few shots she took while in this house. As you can see, she took her first photo of where she stands, call me a proud mama!

On a very happy and I suppose a little bit sadly sentimental note {I have come to look forward to seeing Mary, seeing the inside of houses, and taking photos}, after more than a year of house hunting and house hunting posts, this is hopefully my last...or my second to last. Last night my husband and I signed on the dotted line for the house of our dreams! There are a few things that remain to be tied up and thus this post isn't titled something like "The Search Is Over!" or "The Place to Spend the Rest of Our Lives" or anything like that... fingers still crossed. But this may be my last hobo clown finding. Again, fingers crossed.

The Eleventh Hour

2011-11-14T15:31:00.001-05:00

I knew that I wanted to try and shoot something at 11 on the 11th of, well, you know... it just seemed like a date to commemorate. I didn't know what I was going to shoot but then my mother-in-law called me outside to see Twila climbing a tree. She was high up in our Cherry tree and was elated to be sitting like a squirrel, all by herself.

This turned into some admiring of the leaves {which were spectacular}. Lately the weather has warmed up to the mid-60s, there's a soft wind to help the leaves fall from the trees, and the sun shines brightly in a blue sky without any clouds to keep it company...it's been perfect.

So, we played in the leaves a bit-catching them as they fell from the trees, raking piles to jump into, making leaf beds to snuggle in. The 11th hour became a special time I wouldn't want to forget no matter what day of the year! I still remember snippets of my first time playing in the leaves...but I think I remember these times because there was a photo taken of the moment. My cousin and I, bundled up, out on a similarly sunny day with my grandmother, just two heads popping out of a pile of leaves, good times.

After I came back inside and realized the hour had passed from the 10 into the late part of 11 I felt content. Being open to that moment and letting something happen that was so simple and yet so special made my entire day. I am glad I was ready with my charged camera in hand so that perhaps one day she could come inside from taking photos of her baby playing in the leaves and remember this happy day in our backyard.

Linking with Communal Global

Day into Night, Night into Day

2011-11-10T12:37:00.005-05:00

{mouse over for complete image}

It was early in the morning. The sky was foggy. The sun was peeking through. It was that beautiful moment in which the sun resembles the moon and the time of day is neither morning nor night.

Grayson Highlands

2011-11-07T14:43:00.002-05:00

The other day I had the pleasure of visiting Grayson Highlands in VA. It was not only one of the most beautiful hikes I have ever been on but one of the most special places I have ever seen. It didn't hurt the whole experience that the weather was absolutely perfect - no wind, bright blue sky, the sun made the temperature just perfect...it was all perfect.

I love hiking. This wasn't always the case. I think I used to dread it actually. But then I moved to TN, priorities changed, I changed, and I met new people who opened me up to wonderfully new experiences. The thing I love about hiking is that there is always a new experience. Walking, spending time together, and being in that one moment {most of the time, a whole day} with nothing to worry about except what's happening in that same moment... it just makes me feel lucky. During this entire hike everywhere we looked there was a view of perfection, a scene that I feel like I have only seen in a movie, and uniquely special events.

Grayson Highlands is home to a few groups of wild ponies. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would be able to wander out on a cliff's edge to pet and be nuzzled by a beautiful horse- wild manes, remarkable clean and soft, with huge legs and hooves. It just felt special.

I can think of a few hikes I have been on {both with my friend Trena} where I couldn't stop saying and yelling out loud, "Spectacular! I can't believe this!" I am sure she would have been irritated if not for thinking the exact same thing. If she was climbing in front I would hear her as she rounded the top say, "Whooooaaaa. Check this out." And if I was in front there would similarly be a, "You are not going to believe this."

Sitting, having lunch amidst the wild horses, on a huge rock, in the perfect scenery, with a view that looked painted...well, a three hour drive was totally worth it, and the 7 miles we walked was the bonus.

Parts of the walk reminded me of photos and videos I have seen of Scotland, a few turns reminded me of scenes from Lord of the Rings, a few scenes were something I had never imagined before. It made me think about how many places there are in the world to see...how many places in the US there are to amaze.

Going on these hikes also makes me think about the Natives who traveled these very spots. But being up in those same spots it's easy to imagine not what life was like but what it looked like. It must not be too different. Sure, there is an extra house in the distance, a plane in the sky, a backpacker speeding off into a rocky tunnel...but really, the hills are still there, the wide open space, it looks as if it's still untouched.

A very special thank you to Jon. If it weren't for seeing his images of the wild ponies I may never have encountered this place. I can't wait to go back! I may even break my hatred of camping with a nice weekend in these mountains. I'm sure the cuddling of some wild horses had something to do with that.

{Sharing with Communal Global, Creative Exchange, and the Happiness Project}

Identity

2011-11-03T21:44:00.001-05:00

I have recently begun wearing contacts...it's a trial run really. My prescription is so strong that the pair I am trying may not work and I would have to have a pair of contacts custom made. {Meaning I will continue to enjoy wearing glasses}

The strangest part about wearing them is seeing myself without glasses. What's even more strange is that with glasses on I look more like my mother and without I look exactly like my father. Isn't that weird?

I feel twinges of vanity strike now too. I look in the mirror and think "Whoa, who is that?! You need to put some makeup on those eyes and get some sleep while you're at it!" It's such a drastic change that some people I know don't recognize me on the street! {What's up with that?!} I don't know if this new identity is going to last... especially if my vision is not at least what it can be with glasses. I mean, I know that I continue to love my phone even though it never gets reception but this whole vision thing...it's really nice to have it work like it should. I really love to see clearly. And you know what else? Taking photos with contacts is harder for me, they dry up so quickly that my focus is off. That's a deal breaker, right??

I have been thinking a lot about identity though and what makes someone's identity. For me, I suppose glasses are a main part of who I am. {I have had them since I was seven.} I just think it is so weird that some thing is defining me as Anika. Actually, I guess it's strange that I have always thought of identity as some quality we possess that gives us that which makes us, us. Seems kind of naive now that I have written that. Identity is more about how we are seen...is that right? I guess it could be more of how we present ourselves to the world, the identity we choose to present. Perhaps the Internet has changed what identity is all about. Now, it seems like we all have or can have layers of who we want to be or who we want to be perceived as.

It's interesting to think about. I am surprised though how my outward identity change is causing some inward reflections. It's amazing how one little article or prop in my life can make me think about me as a person. I don't want to let something like glasses {or no glasses in this case} define me in some way but then again, I guess I am okay with it. It is after all just the outside shell of what is a very little part of who I am.

P.S. After I wrote this I ended up looking up the definition of "Identity".

1. The collective aspect of the set of characteristics by which a thing is definitively recognizable or known.
2. The set of behavioral or personal characteristics by which an individual is recognizable as a member of a group.
3. The quality or condition of being the same as something else.
4. The distinct personality of an individual regarded as a persisting entity; individuality.

Hipstamatic screen test

2011-11-02T07:10:00.000-05:00

She's hilarious lately. Loving her few days at school each week. "What else do I need?" She rhetorically asks me when I ask her about her new friends.

The journey of motherhood still {and I guess it always will} puts me in these moments that I never imagined I would be in. The other day I found myself driving around aimlessly so that my baby could sleep a bit before a night of festivities. {It's really quite amazing how much I can get done from a parked car and drive-thrus!} Tonight, I am checking another box on the didn't-think-I'd-be doing-this list - I am going to see Yo Gabba Gabba live. I am actually quite looking forward to it because the wild and crazy Leslie Hall will be performing with them. {She is great for a laugh and is always highly entertaining should you like to check her out.} I'm thinking Twila will enjoy it as she does love to dance. But honestly, her true love these days seems to be {gulp} Diego. She doesn't watch a lot of tv but the other day I heard her in her crib talking herself to sleep and she said, "Oh Diego, I love you". I thought it was adorable but also wanted to scream out, "Noooo, not Diego!" Nothing against his character but I find that show really hard to watch. Yes, these days with her are full of fun and going by so quickly. You may have noticed I have been on the blog a lot less lately. I just don't want to miss a second...even if a few of those seconds may be with Diego.

I took these photos last night after I cut her bangs. She was sitting in front of her curtain and it kind of looked like a photo booth to me...or like a screen test of some sort {with very poor lighting}. She's such a ham!

Halloween guest post team up - iPhone style

2011-10-30T20:46:00.000-05:00

Happy Halloween! If you missed yesterday's guest post you should definitely check it out to get you in the holiday spirit.

So, when I was doing the call for Creepy Countdown guest posts, I was thrilled to receive this image from the very talented Camaca. If you love Phonography or like to look at beautifully designed photos then I highly recommend visiting her blog. It seems like every one of her posts replaces the previous with a new favorite photo for me...very talented. Even though I ended up not doing the Countdown her creation was far too great and too perfect not to post today.

Since I also wanted to post an image for today I thought I would use Camaca's creation as inspiration to create a little iPhone duo. I thought, "~~Who~~ What would live in this cave waiting to surprise a trespasser??"

How about a pair of monstrous twins?

A zombie?

Or this entity perhaps? Creepy right??

Enjoy your Halloween! May it be filled with tricks and treats, sweets and sights. Speaking of which, be sure to check out Camaca's site! You will be happy you did.

The best Halloween blogger around, a guest post

2011-10-29T13:12:00.000-05:00

Still not in that festive Halloween mood? Then I have the person you need to meet! Brandy of Brandyson Zen Master Flash. Out of all the many blogs I read Brandy has filled her October posts with the most wonderfully entertaining Halloween tricks and treats. It's two days until Halloween and I still don't have a clue what my costume will be. On the other hand, Brandy has thought of at least one for every day! Why didn't I think of this? Or THIS?! You gotta check out her blog and catch up on some of her hilarity from the month, you will be happy you did. Oh, and if you are needing any un-dead make-up tips, Brandy and her man are some of the best zombies/attacked victims, bloody messes I have seen around this side of Hollywood. But first, read the below guest post written by her. At the beginning of October I had hoped to do my Creepy Countdown as I did last year. But October came and with it came my toddler, the holiday farmer's market preparations, more house hunting, and well...priorities shifted, my writing has taken a back seat...well, maybe a middle seat. But Brandy sent me this post mid-month to add to the countdown and it would be such a shame to see it disappear like a ghost on Hallows' Eve. So enjoy the following true tale of fear- it will make you laugh and gasp, and feel an entertainment in the spirit of Halloween. Thanks Brandy, you are awesome.

I think it was around autumn; I remember being cold and thoughts of Halloween were on my mind so it actually could have been any time of year since I tend to always be thinking about Halloween. I had just walked in to our apartment after getting home from work. At the time we lived in a large two bedroom, two bathroom apartment. I performed the usual routine, let the dog out, get the mail and use the restroom in the bathroom attached to the master bedroom. After I walked out of our bedroom I thought I heard something coming from the other bedroom which was on the other side of the apartment. I'm not trying to say that we lived in a giant space but the spare bedroom and bathroom just weren't areas of the house we hung out in frequently. As I walked over to investigate the noise I stopped in the kitchen to grab a steak knife. Picture the dumb blond in some B movie that you're screaming at not to go towards the noise. I mean, I admit I thought about how dumb this was, going towards the noise but in my mind I was smart enough to grab a knife. That was my justification; a freaking steak knife. That would for sure save my life. But you see I'm a weapon kind of girl and not in the NRA sense I just mean that if I feel that my life is threatened I WILL look for the closest thing near me that could possibly cause the most damage.

What's funny about this story is that my dog wasn't acting weird or barking at any strange noises. That is definitely the other reason for my brief moment of invincibility and or stupidity. He has a very comforting protective bark that is distinct from his other barks, you know the annoying ones? So I wasn't too worried because the dog wasn't giving me any clues.

I entered the hallway between the spare bathroom and the closet which housed our washer and dryer and began gingerly peering into the bathroom and then into the bedroom which was at the end of the hallway. As I leaned into the room like a stealth ninja or more so like a Charlie's Angel, which is what I prefer, I braced myself for well, nothing. I thought for sure I was just losing my mind and wouldn't find a darn thing. I mean, let me tell you I have heard many noises, in many places, in various situations where I'm alone or it's just me and the dog and I have reacted nearly the same way, knife-in-hand, ready to bust some ass only to come up short. But this apartment was different, it was actually built really well. I never heard the other neighbors through the walls. Never. I'm not kidding. I never heard a loud TV or radio or even some newly married couple yelling at each other in the middle of the night. I never even heard a dog barking outside or even kids playing out on the grass. In return, we never even had a neighbor complain about us either. Not a single time did anyone complain about our dog running around on the floor or barking or how loud we like to listen to our gangster rap or that one time I repeatedly stabbed that door-to-door salesman in the back. No one said a word about his screaming. It was pretty much the perfect place to live aside from the OUTRAGEOUS monthly rate and the jerk-off management.

I took a deep breath before letting the steak knife proceed me when entering the spare bedroom and just as I exhaled I heard someone behind me. It was definitely not my dog and it was for sure a human. I think I was hoping for an alien or even God himself. I quickly turned around and with all of my strength I flung that steak knife around and aimed straight for....wait....what?.....looking up at this intruders face I realized that it was my husband and I immediately clammed up in fear and then almost instantly I fell to the ground and began sobbing. I sobbed like a little girl who saw her stuffed animals get thrown into a giant compost machine and watched as they were ripped to shreds. I sobbed because I almost just stabbed my husband right in the stomach. I sobbed because this time I trusted my instincts when I heard the noise and it turned out I was right that someone was in our apartment. I sobbed also because it scared the living poo out of me when I heard that person standing behind me. Oh and did I mention I almost stabbed my husband? My husband. My young, vibrant, sexy husband who's abs I happen to enjoy, yeah him, I almost freaking stabbed him. I could have killed him. Dead.

My husband, above mentioned guy, in case you haven't been paying attention, is a huge prankster and he was kneeling beside me excreting apology after apology trying to hug me yet failing at it miserably. I definitely wanted to kill him now but for completely different reasons. He was always sneaking up on me trying to scare me even though he knows it only pisses me off. I don't like to be startled it ignites an anger inside of me that I can't explain. I just flat out hate it. Get me in a haunted house and I'm less likely to punch some teenager wearing a crappy mask who scares me than I am if I'm in my own house getting a drink of water and someone comes up from behind to scare me. It's different; totally diverse situations (humor me).

I distinctly remember him spewing a hallow promise about never scaring me ever again but I can't even begin to count how many times he has scared me since that day even though his life was threatened. Death won't even stop him from being annoying and that's pretty much how the rest of my life is going to go.

Hauntingly,

Brandy

The Ladies of Jay's Market

2011-10-28T07:18:00.002-05:00

Loving Kim Keever's Underwater Dioramas

2011-10-25T10:20:00.001-05:00

I love seeing people use photography in new ways. I feel like photography is still a young art by comparison with painting and sculpture and so think there are still many ideas out there left to discover. Check out Kim Keever and watch the short documentary about his process - it's sure to inspire!

Scavenged

2011-10-22T20:34:00.003-05:00

Fly

I pass by this corner almost every day. Whenever I get a red light I shoot a photo of the same spot. This one was taken the other morning during our first taste of winter chilliness. It's also the first time in over a year that I have taken this shot with a bird in flight... must have known it was a scavenger prompt.

Words

I am using this image for the next round of the ACoLab {the theme is "Haunted", due the 23rd}. It felt appropriate to post too because of Halloween. The words read:

What came into mind was in the other’s mind
Bothered, brooding brothers both amazed by the sights that stood before them
Confused, this was the first time that they had each felt fear

Always Look on the Bright Side

I went to a children's museum the other day. There was amazing amount of set-ups, images, and literature depicting life during the time of WWII. I thought it was an odd and interesting place... Well, I guess I found it interesting because it seemed an odd place. There were many little set ups showing what life was like before the war and during the war... not so much after the war really. I guess I thought it was strange to have so much WWII info in a museum marketed for toddlers. It was unexpected although I suppose it makes some sense since the museum is in Oak Ridge where the Oak Ridge National Laboratory is located. There were also cabins set up to show what life was like for those who lived in the mountains of TN, a life-sized dollhouse for children to play in {think: dollhouse from the 1950s then make it life-sized}, a train to play on, a rocket ship to climb into, and masks, artifacts, and musical instruments from Africa and the hills of Appalachia...Oh, and there was a life-sized Polar Bear. See? Odd, right? Cool, but odd. The large photo below is one scene I particularly liked. Please note that amongst the happy-go-lucky "perfect" breakfast {albeit, no bacon} and cookbooks is also a "Home Manual for Defense". I love this scene so much I may have to print it large for my dining room/kitchen...at the very least it's going on the fridge.

I guess, as far as the theme Always look on the bright side is concerned, the 50s always appear to be a lemonade from lemons kind of life. Even if there was an under current of issues, even if life was difficult, or problems were ignored, the way life was often portrayed seems very sunny-side up. I find these sorts of scenes charming even if they sometimes are manufactured. In fact, I think that's why I like them- they are charmingly odd, just like the Children's Museum of Oak Ridge. I guess that's also me looking on the bright side!

Under & Orange

Here is a shot taken below {or under} a chandelier. I edited the image to the left using Photoshop. Although I still think I like the original better, I did have fun experimenting and may re-visit this shot later to see what I can create.

Thanks to Ashley for hosting this week's Scavenger Hunt. It's always a challenge and very inspiring! You can check out the other Scavenger Hunt collections here. Happy Sunday to you!

I Can Feel Winter Approaching

2011-10-20T19:04:00.000-05:00

Stowell Cabinet Card

2011-10-18T20:36:00.001-05:00

I came across these beautiful cabinet cards the other day. Here is one of them.

I love the faded painterly background of the image and well...I guess I love everything about this card. I also find it amusing that this image, taken so long ago, by a person who had enough money and worldliness to have their portrait made in this fashion, would one day end up in my office among modern day tchotchke. I wonder if this man thought for one second that this image would end up in the hands of someone who didn't know him or that it would end up being used in a project, hung on a strangers wall, or posted on a blog of all places.

Collecting these antique images has made me start to wonder where all of my family's portraits will end up. Will my daughter hang them proudly? Will some hipster in the year 2070 be cutting out parts and using them in some 3d mixed media installation on Mars? Probably not. But in all seriousness, this man probably would have thought it quite ridiculous if somebody mentioned his portrait would be on this thing called the Internet, right?

I love to mix new photos with an antique frame! I love visiting a blog and seeing a snazzy frame. I love it even more when they share their frame with me! So, I am giving a go at my first mediafire upload...let me know if you have any problems and I can try and send you the file in another way.

Download files here

I have made the PSD file available complete with a clipping mask so all you have to do is slip your image into the frame and resize your image as you desire. There is also a PNG file for download for those without Photoshop.

This card is free to use however you would like to. I would love if you left me a comment or link letting me see what you do with it, but it's not necessary. I just think it'd be fun and I'm curious.

Hope you have some fun with it!

Blank Stare

2011-10-14T14:48:00.000-05:00

Joining Mosaic Muse {blurred}

I love this - Matthew Cox Mixed Media

2011-10-14T13:49:00.000-05:00

I am in love with these new creations from Matthew Cox, pure genius. I have been doing some mixture of embroidery and photography for awhile now but it never occurred to me to use x-ray film! Brilliant and so well done. Look at these!

Bird Talk

2011-10-12T08:24:00.001-05:00

This time of year has all of the birds and squirrels hanging out together waiting to be photographed. I pass by this spot everyday and have been noticing that lately that this corner has become a little hub. The other day I couldn't pass it up without taking a photo.

I like this particular corner because of the way the two poles connect. The birds always seem to sit on the same side of the street, on the same lines. Every time I have passed this spot I think about how cool it could look from right underneath. It felt like I was shooting from the danger zone but it was worth it...I love those lines!

Pixlr-o-Matic

2011-10-10T08:05:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Amberlee for introducing me to Pixlr-o-Matic! My mom actually works for Autodesk so I am surprised I hadn't heard of the application. It is hours of fun for those of you who like to experiment with photos. Check it out!

Linking with the Creative Exchange

Scavenged

2011-10-08T23:03:00.000-05:00

This week's Scavenger Hunt items are Landscape, Complimentary Color, Food, Black and White, and Blank Space. You can see many other interpretations by visiting Ashley's site. Thanks for stopping by!

Landscape

Complimentary/Triadic Color

and

Black and White

This was the last photo I took for this week's Scavenger Hunt. I had blue and orange on my mind and was thinking of what I could edit or set up to get those colors. I really didn't know what I would post but then yesterday while walking to dinner I went through a parking lot and came across this.

It was twilight so the sky had that lovely blue color and one light was glowing orange. I thought it would be a fun idea to try and use the same image for both the color prompt as well as for black and white. The color wheel prompt was a great exercise. {Thanks Kat!} I think that I like to shoot color but don't ever think of finding certain color combinations. I will have to keep this idea in mind for future inspiration.

Food

Twila and I took Cookie Monster out for a special treat the other day. He wasn't the only one loving our cookie tea time! Here we are having a philosophical conversation about something...probably food related.

Blank Space

I know that I'm supposed to take new images from the week for the Scavenger Hunt but I decided to go with another image from the beach...it's the first one that came to mind when I saw the themes. I am enjoying adding text to images lately as part of my new 365 site. {I just recently made it public for fear that I wouldn't post for more than a week! Now that I have made it public it feels like I have committed myself to the project more officially...we'll see how that goes. It could use some sprucing up but should you care to visit please do!} I wrapped up my last 365 project in September and thought it was such a good exercise that I would try something similar. Instead of concentrating on shooting an image a day I am trying to edit an image every day. I also want to work around the theme of words whether it be photos of words or incorporating words onto the image when editing. I like this image because, to me, it's simple and fun just like the moment it was taken in.

Have a great week!

Fall Walks

2011-10-08T09:37:00.001-05:00

I am so happy Fall is lingering. Evening family walks are the most special part of my day now. A nice stroll around the neighborhood is the perfect way to re-cap the day with Doug, spend some quality family time, and enjoy the beautiful change of season. It's interesting too to watch Twila take the same walks she took a year ago this time. She's growing up rapidly.

Although she is still interested in picking up interesting rocks and little acorns here and there she seems to see things with different meaning. For example, the leaves she used to pick up were appealing for their color and size. Now, those same looking leaves are "maps" she uses to tell us which way to go on our walks. Her imagination is so fun to be a part of.

AColab #29 - Illusion

2011-10-07T14:55:00.001-05:00

I gotta be honest, this is ~~super artsy~~ super-freaky-deaky artsy. I am not one to judge but if I saw this at an opening somewhere I would be intrigued, like it, and then feel like making fun of how artsy the "work" is. Does that make any sense? It may after you watch the video. This was another very fun collaboration with John.

I shot the {almost 400} photos for this video two days before the ACoLab deadline while on a two and a half hour drive home from Nashville. I took my glasses off for awhile while sitting in the passenger seat. {Side note: I am really visually impaired. Imagine not being able to see a face of someone standing two feet in front of you or not being able to read anything more than two inches away and that's how I see.} But, I occasionally like to take off my glasses and see the world in bokeh. My vision is so bad without glasses that everything just becomes balls of light. If I squint a bit the bokeh becomes more defined and if I relax the bokeh widens. About 10-15 years ago I did this series of images entitled "How I See". It was a collection of moving bokeh shots and it was as I see things. I love bokeh so I do take the lemons and turn them into lemonade. Although I very much appreciate being able to see well with glasses, lately I have considered getting Lasik surgery. My eye doctor and the nurses are always astounded at my lack of vision and try to convince me to get it done. Now that I have Twila I see the saftey issues that go along with my vision- if she were to fall into water and I had to dive in to rescue her I wouldn't be able to see her; if we were in an accident and my glasses fell off I wouldn't be able to drive. Did I thoroughly bring this post to a depressing place? I will get back to the point... On this long drive home I began to think about missing that ability to see bokeh when I please. That may be totally insane but I did and I am glad that I did because it then made me think about those photos I used to take. While thinking of those photos I remembered the theme of the ACoLab, "It's All An Illusion". I thought about what my eyes see and what my vision sees in comparison with other people. I began to think of sight as an illusion. So, I took some shots of what I see while driving at night. By the time I got home I knew I wanted to add movement to the images of the passing cars. The next day while working on the video I thought it would be interesting to obscure the bokeh even more and make it less recognizable as bokeh.

So this:

became this:

Then after making the movie I thought that maybe john would want to make some music for it. He made up a soundtrack and then I re-worked the video to fit the music and change the timing a bit. I am happy with the result and I am okay with feeling a little artsy about it all. It's so much fun to let ideas spiral into something out of a moment like riding in the car. It's cool too that a moment that could easily be forgotten is now what I will remember as a spring-board for inspiration. The ACoLab tends to do this for me and I am grateful to all those who contribute and fuel the fire. If you would like to join in the fun please do! The next inspiration {due on the 20th of October} is "Haunted". I'm excited to see the submissions for that one! If you would like to see the rest of the submissions for round 29 you can click here.

She could see the future

2011-10-05T13:58:00.000-05:00

I just got back from Nashville. It was a lovely trip. We spent time with two of our favorite people and also saw some new sites. It's also exciting to edit images taken from a city since I am still wading through images taken at the beach. Not that I am complaining by any means, love the beach! It's just nice to mix things up a bit... keeps inspiration flowing in new directions.

This is an image of a solar-powered, robotic scarecrow. {I don't think I ever would have put those words together if it weren't for this creation.} Her eyes are motion sensors. She twists and looks back and forth when someone passes in front of her. In the hot sun she was spectacular. I didn't think that this SOOC image did the mannequin justice. It was that hot sun that I loved most about seeing her in this spot. So, I edited the image a bit to make it seem a bit hotter and a bit more vintage-futuristic.

To me she looks like something that was futuristic from the 50s or 60s.

I like her. Really, what a great idea for a scarecrow. On the ends of her hands are nozzles from a hose. So, not only would your crops be spared they would look very hip too.

A little of this, a little of that

2011-10-02T09:14:00.000-05:00

{This post is so all over the place that I feel like I should put up an "Excuse the Mess" sign!}

Wow, I haven't been meaning to ignore my blog this last week {or two weeks really!} nor have I neglected some of my favorite reading spots on purpose. But it's happened... Fall has shown its face and it just feels so good to be outside in its presence. It went from being in the 80s last week to 30 last night!

Last night we spent time around a fire having a delicious dinner with friends, doesn't get much more perfect than that really - Fall, friends, food, and fire.

Thanks so much for those who continue to stop by and leave sweet comments even though I have been horrible returning emails and such. I promise to get back in the swing some time soon.

{Isn't this the cutest little thank you?! I made it into a card and brought it to the market this weekend. I think she did well for a slow market.}

Oh, while I am rambling...did I mention my little one started school?? It's so cute to witness. I suppose this is another reason I haven't been around my computer...lots of firsts happening so quickly and I don't want to miss one of them. I feel lucky to have her in my life keeping me smiling and laughing all the time. She loves it there. "There's lots of boys and girls and other boys and other girls... and toys, Ms. Ingrid, and a sandbox!"

I hope you are enjoying the magnificent change of the season wherever you may be.

Priorities

2011-09-30T07:23:00.001-05:00

Flying outside the box

2011-09-27T12:03:00.000-05:00

Two heads are better than one

2011-09-26T12:41:00.000-05:00

I have been thinking about doing another Creepy Countdown this year. Would anyone like to contribute a post?? Perhaps a moment that most frightened you, a spooky image, a funny costume memory, or anything that conveys Halloween and the season? I think I need help to make a countdown happen this year; plus it's way more fun to mix up stories and images. I had so much fun last time that I would love to do another. Please send me an email at anikatoro {at} gmail {dot} com if you would like to take part or just leave a comment here letting me know and I can contact you. C'mon and get spooky with me!

High and Low

2011-09-24T15:20:00.000-05:00

I know it's now officially Fall in Tennessee but I am still reminiscing about Summer. I really love Fall {it could be my favorite season} but part of me knows that it is usually a short season here and that Winter is already gearing up to make itself known.

For those of you tired of seeing images of surf and sand- just be glad I don't live at the beach! I, on the other hand, am missing the beach terribly and wonder why I didn't visit it more when I was living in California. I think I was too young and too occupied with other things...Oh wait, no, I remember...it's because the beach in Northern California is freezing! I remember putting my feet in the water and waiting until they turned blue and became numb so the pain would go away...not as vacation-y as South Carolina. Ahh well at least I have these photos to let my imagination run barefoot on the sand a little while longer.

It was all new to her

2011-09-23T13:23:00.003-05:00

We were lucky enough to witness.

Life through her eyes makes the present moment and the little things {like bare feet on sand and a group of birds} all that matter.

Sharing with Pixel Dust

The Colors of Vacation

2011-09-21T09:57:00.000-05:00

Joining the Creative Exchange

P.S.

ACoLab #28 - Seeing Red

2011-09-20T11:06:00.000-05:00

First I would like to say a very big, heartfelt THANK YOU to everyone who left me "get better" wishes and who commented the other day. Even though I was off of the computer for awhile it made me feel nice to have those sweet wishes sent to my phone. Thanks for sharing in my frustration and lending some advice as well. I really appreciate you all, thanks. I am feeling much better and have a better handle on what's going on with me.

*********

Today is the last day to submit something for the ACoLab. Round 28 is "Seeing Red" and at the risk of revealing myself as a total geek this is my entry.

It's actually quite appropriate that I used this for my entry since it was done all in my phone and today is the first week without the weekly Phonography post. So, yes, I am a Buffy lover and well, I may or may not know some of the episodes by name. {I think that's just part of owning the DVDs okay?? You get to know the episodes.} So again, I know I am totally a nerd for mentioning this but "Seeing Red" is, ahem, an episode from the later part of the series. You know, the one in which Willow's girlfriend {spoiler alert} dies and she goes a little wacky, witch style. Let's just say that she does in fact take the skin off of the villain...it's cool, he lives, he just has no skin and he was kind of asking for it.

Aaannnyways, I decided to use that iconic image of Willow when she become the "bad" witch, red eyes and all. I got the image from the Internet and saved it to my phone.

I mirrored the image to make it a bit less obvious and more cohesive and supernatural. I used PictureShow and changed the colors slightly.

I superimposed the image of the villain, Warren using the Blender app. Using blender I also increased the contrast a bit.

I then added some words using the WordFoto app. I added some saturation and changed the hues a bit to make it more red for the ACoLab theme. I kind of like the less red version but for the theme I think the red works better.

And there you have it, Seeing Red. I am actually impressed that not all entries used the theme of anger... in fact, I may have been the only one. I should have the post up in the next day or so, probably Thursday so you still some time to submit if you would like to. If not, hope to see you in the ACoLab for round 29 when the theme will be "It's Just an Illusion".

Way more info than you care to know

2011-09-17T20:34:00.000-05:00

OK, just so you know, this is kind of a rant... a story, but still, I suppose, a rant. {You can always tell it's a rant when there isn't a photo to accompany the post. Oh, and there are probably waaaay more typos than there are normally too.} I don't usually do this on my blog. I usually spare you these personal details of my life but I am kind of reved up. This is also a nice place for me to let my family and friends now what's going on... So, feel free to skip over this post like a doctor would a patient. {Was that mean? Perhaps a bit harsh maybe but a bit true in my case, read on.}

I have officially lost my faith in the medical profession. It had been teetering; but now, after 15 hours of doctors, hospitals, CT scans, and still no diagnosis I feel at a loss. It's a strange thing- needing a professional and yet not getting professional attention. I don't have the knowledge or medical tools for surgery or things like that so it would be nice to be able to receive the kind of care one hopes to get from a doctor. I know that there are still some great doctors out there {and if any of them want to contact me I am in the market}. My mom said that doctors are kind of like a hairdresser...you should switch every now and then because they get bored with us. Nice. And sadly, I think she may have a point.

Let me re-cap yesterday for you.
*I don't sleep well since I am in so much pain.
*I wake up early and try to get an appointment to see my doctor since it's Friday and I don't want to get screwed because it's a weekend.
*I go to my doctor.
*She has no idea what's going on with me.
*I return to tell her the pain is worse.
*She orders a CT scan at a hospital that has been named "Park Death" by some people I know because everyone who enters doesn't seem to return.
*I try to change the location and get a nasty talk-down from the receptionist.
*I cave and go to meet my maker.
*I ingest Barium for the CT scan. {Lemme just say for those of you who haven't had the pleasure-pick the berry flavor. The Mocha wasn't the treat I hoped for. Imagine sipping cold coffee that had been made in a plastic cup - I recommend they change the name to "Plastic Burnt Coffee".} After I take the Barium the nurse tells me it's a two hour wait for the Barium to settle enough for the scan. She also tells me to be sure to drink a ton of water so my kidneys don't fail. Thanks.
*I wait.
*I wait.
*I wait.
*I take the scan and vow to be healthy to hopefully improve my chances to never go through a CT scan again.
*I am told to go to the phone to talk to my doctor about the results. She says that the test came back positive for appendicitis and she's sending me into surgery. I start to ask her a question about the recovery time and operation and she cuts me off after the second question and says, "Anika," {exasperated} "these are all questions the surgical doctor can answer for you." Oh, my bad...I thought you were my doctor. My bad, forgot it was 5 on Friday and you were clocking out. That was rude of me. "Well, is it okay if I have the surgery at a different hospital? I would feel more comfortable." She says, "Sure." I ask her if she was going to call over there to tell them anything or give the hospital a head's up. "No, no. That's not necessary. Just take the CD of the scan to them and tell them you are there for surgery." Whatever. I think I knew she was just trying to get rid of me. I later talked to some doctors and a doctor friend and they both assured me that yes, she was in fact just wanting to clock out. Nice to know...at least I am not crazy too.
*I go to the other hospital and wait 2 hours {in pain mind you...I liken the pain to contractions}. When I finally get in and see a doctor he apologizes and questions why my doctor didn't call ahead because I could have just come on in that way and wouldn't have had to do any waiting. I wonder why my doctor puts on a front that she cares.
*The nurses question why the other hospital left my IV in my arm {come to find that's kind of frowned upon, thanks Park Death} They also wonder why my tests I took at my doctor's office were not going to be ready until Tuesday. "That wouldn't make much sense if you have appendicitis." Yeah, good point.
*Redo all the tests I had done at the first office.
*My friend, a doctor, enters the room to hang out for awhile with me. This, by the way, was the saving grace of the day. She was such a great friend. Plus she entered the room with, "So why are you in the pediatricians room?" I laughed. I was watching Silence of the Lambs in a room with a giraffe asking"How tall are you?" and a wallpaper border of baby pandas, tigers and alligators. The irony was peaceful.
*The doctor {who I did like} came in and asks incredulously, "So, they told you you have appendicitis?!" Nice. If the ball hadn't been dropped 8 hours ago it definitely dropped then.
*I ask for water as I have not had any that day because I was maybe having surgery. However I was told to drink a lot of water to filter out the Barium. I am told to wait because I may still have surgery. I get an IV drip and pray my kidneys don't become another symptom.
*The surgeon enters, tells me if she hadn't seen the scan she would tell me there was no way it was appendicitis but she's still not really sure. She could perform the surgery to eliminate it as a part of the mystery but I could also wait to see if any symptoms of appendicitis showed up {none of which I had by the way}
*More tests are suggested. They leave saying they will inform the other doctors to come.
*2 hours later my friend asks the nurses for another bag of fluids or some water. I don't ever get it. Silly me, I asked during a shift change.
*My friend leaves and then another hour later I ask where the other doctors are. The nurse thought that I was already visited by the doctors and she will go find out. Mental note: never ask for anything during a shift change.
*Half hour later she tells me I can go home. "Can I have water now". "I guess so," she replies.

Long story short {I know, too late} I spent 15 hours with doctors and hospitals and was never given ideas on how to go from there, what was wrong with me, who to contact. What has happened to us people?? How is this acceptable?? Thankfully I have insurance! Something has got to change. Chances are at some time in our lives we will all have to go to a hospital and it would be nice to feel cared for or at least know that we aren't forgotten. My friend who worked at a veterinarian office for years said , "You know, this would never happen at a vet's office. It just wouldn't be tolerated." True. Think about that. Anyways, a big thank you to everyone who helped me through that day {and everyone who made it through this post}. My husband once again showed me how great a friend he is. Really, that in itself made me feel lucky the whole day through.

P.S. I am starting to feel better now. Good thing I didn't have that surgery that was offered. At least I hope so.

How the crow flies

2011-09-15T15:13:00.002-05:00

It's more of a longing actually

2011-09-14T13:54:00.000-05:00

Joining the Creative Exchange

Phonography #56

2011-09-12T20:52:00.000-05:00

Well, here it is, the last weekly Phonography! It's been a year and a month and it seems like a good time for me to bring the project to a close. It's bittersweet I suppose as I have really loved *meeting* new people from all over the world and being introduced to some blogs I otherwise would not have found. But I think it's time. When I started this project I was looking for a new kind of inspiration and wanted to dedicate myself to a new project, a new practice. These weekly Phonography links opened my eyes to a lot of things including new ways to edit and shoot. So I feel very grateful. A very big thank you to everyone who has linked up over the last year!! Thanks for being a part of that inspiration.

I am going to keep my Phonography Page up with all the past links open to peruse. I think I may make a book of all my past posts as a nice memento as well. Yes, all good things must come to an end and even though it feels a bit odd {and maybe a little sad} I am excited to take this energy and focus it towards some new and exciting projects. Coincidentally my 365 project has just come to a close as well. I feel like these daily and weekly creative dedications are so valuable though that I am already starting to work on some new ones with a refreshed vigor. But more on those later. For now, I will just say as I usually do, I look forward to seeing where you have been this week. Again, thanks to all of you who have commented, supported, and participated in the project. I hope I will continue to see you around here soon.

So now, Phonography #56! For this round I thought I would end with some edits I did while driving home from vacation. Having the phone is an excellent way to kill a 6 hour car ride!

I really liked some of the results so thought now would be an appropriate time to show off some apps that make fun possible. I used a few different ones including Blender, PictureShow, Hipstamatic, Percolator, and the Photoshop app. I will be leaving this linky open through this coming weekend and as usual, not really any rules besides your image being from a phone.

Happy shooting!

On this day

2011-09-11T07:15:00.000-05:00

I feel so lucky to have the life I have and on this day it all just feels a little more delicate.

Perspective in the Marsh

2011-09-09T22:22:00.001-05:00

ACoLab sneak peek

2011-09-08T19:16:00.000-05:00

There are a few hours left to submit to the next round of the ACoLab. I just finished my submission and although I would tweak some visual stuff here and there it was one of the most fun submission thus far. The theme is "Perfect Timing" and while talking to my friend John about the theme we decided to collaborate. Collaborating reminded me why I started the ACoLab. I love working with other people no matter how much input either of us have. Working with one person is never the same as working with another and so methods are never the same - I love that. It seems like collaborating always sparks something new I never would have done otherwise, it's inspiring. {While I am on the topic...lemme know if you ever want to collaborate, I am almost always up for it!}

So, for this, round #27, Jon did the soundtrack and I did the visuals. His song is one of the best things I have heard in a long while and {as his songs always are} is super catchy. Like I said before, I would like to change some things about the visuals but I worked for a long while and need to call it a day. I hope to work on the post for the ACoLab sometime tomorrow so check on back to see the other submissions. As always, the variety is exciting to see. If you missed this round head on over to see the upcoming inspirations and join in! Round 28 {due on the 20th} is "Seeing Red".

If I were a...

2011-09-07T07:44:00.001-05:00

Phonography #55

2011-09-06T07:36:00.001-05:00

A little late posting this week...still not really back in the groove of routine. We say so-long to more family today, it's bittersweet {or maybe just a little bitter}. Funny but I didn't take too many images this last week with my phone. It's been awhile since that happened. I don't think these are the best shots I have ever taken with my phone however they do hold nice memories from vacation. Going around from the top left image: Palm tree with a new moon, watching the sun meet the ocean, our mode of transport for the week, and the marsh. Ahhhhh... South Carolina's tag line should be "South Carolina: It's beautiful here."

I did have a lot of driving time to play with some apps. For the image to the left I used Percolator. It doesn't do a lot but if you like circles and bold design it's a perfect app to have.

And speaking of the last hurrah, this is the second to last weekly Phonography link-up so get it while you can! I look forward to seeing your shots from the week.

&lt;br /> &lt;br /> &lt;a border="0" href="http://www.anikatoro.com/2011/09/phonography-55.html" target="_blank">&lt;img src="http://i848.photobucket.com/albums/ab46/anikatoro/smallphotography.jpg"/>&lt;/a>&lt;br /> &lt;br />

Home Sweet Home

2011-09-05T08:49:00.003-05:00

We're all back safe and sound from a perfect vacation at the beach. My family leaves this week so my time on the computer will continue to be sparse for another week or so. It's been nice to step away from the computer and Internet for awhile but I must admit that I miss my little blog, experimenting with photos, and visiting my favorite spots of inspiration. But it is nice having one priority {family} for awhile as I know I will miss them immensely when they are gone. Such is life! But I do hate good-bys. Living so far from my family has made me appreciate the "new" family I have built. But whenever I am around my family of forever I am reminded of how good it is to have them in my life. I do wish that we lived a lot closer to each other.

Today we drop off my aunt at the airport. I am sad to see her go and know that Twila is going to have a hard time without her roommate of almost a month. We still have my mom in town which will definitely soften the blow. But I do feel things returning back to "normal". Routine is standing so close in the wings again, ready to re-introduce itself to us.

Phonography #54

2011-08-29T20:34:00.000-05:00

I'm still enjoying a great time with the family so I will keep things brief. Welcome to this week's Phonography! If you would like to know more or see other images you can do so here.

This shot: iPhone, Dynamic Light

Hope you are having a lovely time wherever you are!

Only two more Phonography link ups. Join in the fun while you can!

Hope we don't bump into Irene

2011-08-26T14:25:00.001-05:00

First off, good luck to all of those about to weather Irene, looks like a biggy.

My out-of-town guests have arrived safe and sound and we are about to go on a nice little vacation. We will be following the hurricane {well not following it but driving behind its path, hopefully after it's long gone} with fingers crossed.

This image to the left, by the way, was taken from the window of an odd store in South Carolina. It's of a ceramic piggy bank. I'm glad the store was closed because I could see myself making some unnecessary purchases. {Like a strange ceramic piggy bank in the shape of an over-sized coin purse.}

I have been having a lot of fun again with my phone and post editing. I am also still liking collecting images of words. I am hoping to find some new ones and other great images to play with while in a new environment.

I don't know how much I will be on the computer while away so have a great weekend and enjoy the last days of the season!

Stars Fell

2011-08-23T20:10:00.000-05:00

Phonography #53

2011-08-22T20:06:00.000-05:00

Studies in Light

Thanks for visiting this week's Phonography. Link up here with your favorite cell shot(s)! {Care to know more?} This being August Break I will keep things brief... Here are shots, all taken with an iPhone using Hipstamatic, from more house hunting {yes, still hunting}, shots from the road, downtown, from under glass and through blinds... This week's theme running through my mind has been all about light. I look forward to seeing what was on your mind this week!

I Love To....

2011-08-22T07:53:00.000-05:00

Scavenger Hunt - August Break Edition

2011-08-20T23:21:00.002-05:00

~Hanging by a Thread~
{Digital Creation}

~Collage~
"A Magical Place"
{All my favorite places in one place}

~Geometry~
{Photo edited in Photoshop}

~Brushstrokes~

Joining ACoLab. This is actually just part of my entry...for the full entry please visit the ACoLab.

~On the Dotted Line~

Shadow from a playground
{Taken with iPhone, Hipstamatic, then shaped and cut on PC using Photoshop}

{Linking with Shadow Shot Sunday, iPhonography, iPhone Friday}

Have a good week!
Also linking with Scavenger Hunt Sunday, August Break

Two

2011-08-19T07:48:00.000-06:00

Linking with Mortal Muses

15 or 3, whatever you go by

2011-08-19T06:45:00.000-06:00

Waitress: Ohhh, congratulations! How long?
Me: Married or together?
W: I go by together.
Me: 15 years!
W: And married?
Him: Three.
W: So how old is the baby?
Both of us: {Laughter} Exactly.
And we wouldn't have it any other way.

Family has arrived so not sure how much time I will be on the computer this weekend. So thank you for stopping by and have a great weekend! Oh, and the ACoLab deadline is still the end of the day on the 20th...hope to see you there!

Thinking...

2011-08-18T07:48:00.000-06:00

Starry Sky Over A Field of Sunflowers

2011-08-17T04:38:00.000-06:00

Phonography #52

2011-08-15T21:57:00.001-06:00

Continuing with the August Break rules I won't do a lot of chit-chatting today but I do want to let all the newcomers know that if you would like to join in this week's Phonography please do! More info here.

These images were all taken outside a very strange store in the very strange city of Gatlinburg, TN. I guess it's not that strange; it's just a place where I feel a bit out of my element. No, I take that back...it's ~~a bit~~ totally strange and endearing at the same time. Endearing because of scenes like this-isn't this ceiling great?!

Image info: These shots were all taken with an iPhone using the Hipstamatic. They were assembled together using PicFrame.

I look forward to seeing what strange and endearing things you and your phone have been up to this week!

While on an evening walk...

2011-08-14T13:06:00.000-06:00

...my attention was drawn to a brightly colored cardinal singing his own little tune.

On the way to breakfast...

2011-08-13T12:53:00.000-06:00

I felt like I was seeing scenes from movies yet to be made... Downtown made me want go home, get my camera, and do some brainstorming.

August break is going well I suppose although I think I may break down and chat a bit today. I really appreciate everyone stopping by and leaving me sweet comments this last week. I have not been home too much and have barely been on the computer - a great thing and also something that seems to make me feel behind. Funny how that happens. I have not been the best at replying these days so thanks for understanding. August remains a busy time - remodeling in the house continues, Twila seems to chat more and become more active every day, and my aunt and mother are scheduled to arrive this coming week! I am very excited and also have a ton of things to do to prepare. The farmer's market has been going well and I am looking forward to having my aunt join me in selling her wares {although she won't tell me what she's bringing...builds anticipation!} It feels like the final days of summer are upon us so we are taking advantage of the hot weather while also looking forward to fall - opening windows in the house, sitting on the porch...oh, it will be so lovely.

Hope August is treating you all well. Have a good weekend!

Linking with: iPhonography and iPhone Friday

Where the Heart Is

2011-08-11T21:20:00.000-06:00

Fixed Gaze

2011-08-10T20:03:00.000-06:00

Same place...

2011-08-09T19:08:00.000-06:00

Linking with: August Break

Phonography #51

2011-08-08T21:44:00.000-06:00

Show me...

I love her soooo much.

Look forward to seeing where you and your phone have been this week!
Care to know more?

Linking with: August Break

ACoLab #25 - Falling

2011-08-08T06:09:00.000-06:00

Image notes: "Appearing and Disappearing", an animated gif...you may remember seeing something I created with this image before but I wanted to experiment a bit for "Falling" and this image came to mind.
Linking with: ACoLab, Much Love Monday {loving the ACoLab and experimenting}, August Break, iPhonography, iPhone Photo Friday

Peach Picking

2011-08-05T06:40:00.000-06:00

Images: Taken in South Carolina with the iPhone, Hipstamatic (SOOC)

Linking with: August Break, Macro Friday, Photo Story Friday

Swift's

2011-08-04T06:51:00.000-06:00

Image info: A single shot. Side of a barn in Inman, SC. Taken with the iPhone, Hipstamatic. Post editing: PictureShow, Instagram.

Over and Under the Bridge

2011-08-03T20:52:00.000-06:00

New Camera = New Series

2011-08-02T19:55:00.002-06:00

The P.S.: Although quite excited to have my new little {huge actually} Fuji instant camera, I am still getting used to the way things are seen through the viewfinder and then translated onto film. But I love it and all the new series I have already begun with it. It's always inspiring to use a new camera...especially one I have been very excited about getting for a long while.

Phonography #50

2011-08-01T18:57:00.001-06:00

{I know I am supposed to be wordless but for those of you just joining the scene, you can click here to learn/see more Phonography. Thanks for playing!}

The image: Taken in South Carolina while on the road.
Image details: iPhone,Hipstamatic,Blender {see below},Paper Camera
Image soundtrack: New Order's Substance
The two images I combined:

Linking with: August Break
The P.S.: I am tweeting now. I know, I know...never say never! If you would like to chirp along with me please do!

&lt;br /> &lt;br /> &lt;a border="0" href="http://www.anikatoro.com/2011/08/phonography-50.html" target="_blank">&lt;img src="http://i848.photobucket.com/albums/ab46/anikatoro/smallphotography.jpg"/>&lt;/a>&lt;br /> &lt;br />

Images from the road

2011-08-01T06:55:00.000-06:00

Images: iPhone,Hipstamatic
Place: Hwy 26, Inman Drive
Linking with: August Break, Much love Monday, iPhonography, iPhone Friday

August

2011-07-29T13:32:00.002-06:00

I have decided to join in Susannah Conway's August Break. In essence, I will be posting a photo a day but no words {although there may be a few here and there}. As one blogger put it, "it's like a month long Wordless Wednesday". I am looking forward to seeing this not only as some recharge time but as a new way of story-telling.

Really, this {blogging break} comes at a perfect time because I am also going to be enjoying some glorious three weeks with my aunt from Chile and my mom from the West Coast... at the same time! {I am so excited.} We also plan on going on a nice little vacation together. {Again, very excited.} Plus, I find I need to do some catching up with the Farmer's Market and my Etsy shop. I am hoping that by planning out some posts ahead of time and keeping things to strictly photos I will do some much needed catching up and some much needed relaxing. I hope you enjoy the photo{s} a day, starting Monday.

In other news {before I go wordless}, I am off to a place I have never been this weekend for some much needed "girl time"- Greenville, SC. Anyone ever been? I'd love to know some secret spots to visit if so or some great places to eat! Although, our hostess seems to know the city quite well and is excited to show off some exciting new finds. I've been looking forward to this for awhile.

The remodeling in our house is still going on {two weeks past the due date and counting} so things are quite out of whack at the house. I guess the valuable lesson is that one should just tack on more money and more time than even the highest estimate, ugh. But, the site of our almost done bathroom is worth a little wait in my mind...it's looking good! Plus, Twila has a new best friend in Bill, our tiling man and all around great person. She has put him up on the list of people she pretends to talk to on her phone, sing songs about, and ask if they are happy. {And yes, those are the letters she picked to wear: B,I, and two Ls} He couldn't be sweeter to her either. He has been great leverage too in getting her to finish meals, take naps, and listen to her mother. So now he's tops in the whole family's book!

Hope you have a wonderful weekend!

Scene from birthday eve

2011-07-29T08:22:00.000-06:00

I haven't gotten around to posting anything from my birthday last weekend but I was thinking about the evening and the lovely spot we had all to ourselves on the glassy water, at sunset, with family and a few beers... It was lovely and I can't wait to return.

Yippee Skippee!

2011-07-28T15:29:00.000-06:00

"Branches" made the front page of Etsy!

Where the Waves Meet the Sky

2011-07-28T07:55:00.000-06:00

Still in a circular mood... I'm still having fun experimenting with them. Here is my latest circular poem.
The inscription reads: This is the place where the waves meet the sky, where the ocean meets gravity, where I think of you and you and me together, like the ocean and the sky.

I used this piece for my addition to the permanent inspiration Teagan created for the ACoLab, Joy.