In the Dark—Chasing Light

First Snowfall

2011-12-17T09:43:00.001-06:00

Every year, I try to capture the first snowfall with an instant film camera. This year, I have a new camera in my arsenal, a Fuji Instax 210 Wide. I've not really given this camera a workout but from my initial uses, it is best outdoors much like many of the Polaroid cameras with a built in, always on, type flash.

Happy first snowfall of the season.

Test Film

2011-12-16T16:40:00.001-06:00

I had the opportunity to play with some Impossible PX100 film today.

'Tis the Season

2011-12-15T11:13:00.001-06:00

For lack of a better blog title. I've been neglectful of this blog and that is a direct reflection on how neglectful of myself I've been. I've read that one should just trudge on with a blog whether the voice and direction is there or not. Even posting a photo a day feels repetitive what with flickr, Facebook and countless other such places available to the photographer. Not to mention my lack of photographic vision.

Will this be the year I return to blogging or do I just close it down, call it quits?

I did take a photo or two today with my Lensbaby. The first two are the same with different editing. The lighting is from a lamp with a warm, reddish orange glow.

Long time

2011-07-21T14:03:00.001-05:00

No blog. It seems I've run out of things to say here. I find that between Flickr for photos and Facebook, I rarely even remember I have a blog. Is my life in a better place? Sometime, that's all I can hope for. That sometime, I am in a good place. Most of the time, I am in a good place.

Last week was Polaroid week on Flickr, yet again. The first is with expired Polaroid film. The second is with Impossible Project's Silver Shade and the third is with Impossible Project's Color Shade First Flush. While Impossible Project's film is experimental, first flush is even more so.

I've taken up a crochet hook and enjoying creating toys to give away. I have to soon learn to tackle a bigger project. Maybe a baby blanket or a hat or something. But I do so enjoy the toys.

Fall Polaroid Week

2010-11-04T09:11:00.001-05:00

The above diptych was taken with TIP's Color Shade PX-70 first flush film. First flush film is what it is and always unpredictable.

Silver Shade PX600 UV+ is a beautiful film.

And my first attempt at an emulsion lift using TIP's film. I messed up a bit and ended up with lots of tears.

Long time

2010-10-22T13:55:00.001-05:00

No blog... I'm around, just busy with life and the pursuit of happiness and all that goes with it. Many trips to and from Ohio along with a vacation in the Outer Banks.

I've done a bit of journaling and sketching along with coloring. I've always loved to color and combining coloring with water is even more fun. I'm just a doodler... of both words and color.

I've played with my Polaroid cameras and even purchased The Impossible Project's newest films. Finicky but oh so lovely, this is Silver Shade, FF for the SX70.

Grandmother's Bible

2010-06-07T21:11:00.000-05:00

While I was home, I borrowed my grandmother's old bible. It is well worn and much loved.

If I could have one thing of hers, other than this bible, it would be her wedding ring, which she had given to me many times but I declined. Instead, I wrapped yarn around it so it would fit her finger. My Mother has it and I did ask for it before my wedding but she declined. I'm sure that the ring will be given to somebody else but such is life in my family.

Memorial Day

2010-06-02T12:29:00.001-05:00

Memorial Day found us at several cemeteries including one located in a small, rural Pennsylvania town (Parker) near the Allegheny River. My dad spent many of us formative years living in this area and until my great aunt died in 1988 we visited often. I've always been fascinated by the old markers and I came upon this one that had been updated. Without men such as John, this country wouldn't be what it is today.

I used to enjoy visiting my aunt's home even though at times, it scared me. She was a prolific gardener with tons of flowers and strawberries but behind her garden, was a small cemetery. Ghost stories abounded in the family and her home was always rumored to be haunted. It was an old home. The bathroom still had a pull chain to flush the toilet. My memory of the street with its uneven sidewalks and large trees doesn't live up to the reality. Time marches on but at least I have my memories of skipping along those sidewalks, picking strawberries and peeking through to the cemetery to try and spy a ghost.

I know that Memorial Day is to honor those who gave their lives in active duty but in our family, we honor all who have gone before us. An annual visit to plant flowers on the graves has been happening for as long as I can remember. This year was no different. A stomach flu that had my dad hospitalized and my mother knocked off her feet for nearly a week (and heart surgery a few weeks earlier) wouldn't keep him away.

The past 10 days or so have been stress filled and full of concern for my parents. I'll be traveling a lot more to help with doctors as his heart will have to monitored. It seems in each family, one person always must step up to the plate and in mine, it is me. I may be over 6 hours away while others, 10 miles but it is still me. Do I have home support or even understanding for all that I must do? Not really. Do I worry how I will continue to do this? Yes, but it must be done.

This summer, I do hope to find time for myself even if only in little ways. My updates may be scarce but I do thank you, my few loyal followers.

Spring Polaroid Week 2010

2010-05-03T12:03:00.001-05:00

It's that time of year again. Spring Polaroid week. My first two entries are taken with the Impossible Projects PX100, Silver Shade, First Flush film.

An Alley

2010-04-24T10:15:00.001-05:00

I processed both of these with my camera phone using two different effects (Vignette for Android).

The first is the over-saturated effect and the second is action movie.

And this last one was processed in Lightroom. I don't remember which preset I used or if I adjusted the preset to suit my tastes. I do enjoy my camera and its various apps. At first, I found myself still longing for the effects that iPhone users have at their disposal but now, it seems everybody is using the same iPhone apps. I'm happy to stand out a bit as a Droid user.

Tulips

2010-04-23T17:47:00.001-05:00

I used my camera phone with a tilt shift app applied and to subdue the tones, a Lightroom preset from Shirley called Coffee with Cream.

Scenes from the Vermilion River

2010-04-15T19:42:00.001-05:00

All three pics were taken with my camera phone (Motorola BackFlip). The first has a Lightroom preset and the following two just minor adjustments for sizing.

4 5 6

2010-04-07T07:56:00.000-05:00

The next three of my PX100 Silver Shade prints. It is one finicky film but it has some quality that I find very appealing. I have to images left to make. Kind of wishing I spent more money now but it'll have to wait.

1-2-3

2010-04-06T10:51:00.001-05:00

My first three attempts with the new PX100 film from The Impossible Project.

I may attempt a few more today, if the weather improves but so far, I am enjoying the imperfections.

Excitement

2010-04-03T19:37:00.001-05:00

I am excited to receive my first pack of this new film for Polaroid sx-70 cameras from the Impossible Project. Next week, I hope to try it but I must confess to feeling a bit intimidated by this film. Early results show it to be a very particular film. I'm just so happy that integral film is back in production for our Polaroid cameras. Fuji never stopped making integral film but it only fits their particular camera.

Wish me luck.

Demo

2010-04-01T15:49:00.001-05:00

Well, I know that I've said that I like control over my images but this demo of Vignette for Android looks quite interesting. After you take the photo, you can try out different settings before it becomes processed and saved. That makes it a bit more flexible. The demo only saves a very small thumbnail so I put them together. If only it was a US company so I didn't have to pay more for it. *sigh*

Spring

2010-03-31T18:13:00.001-05:00

It's been surprisingly springlike the last few days and I've spent much of it outside, either working or most likely, relaxing with a coffee or reading.

Both photos are taken with my Motorola Backflip but the first was processed in Lightroom and the second with a camera app (FxCamera). As much as I love the immediacy of the camera app, I find that I still like the control over my images.

Good Advice

2010-03-22T14:51:00.001-05:00

Indulge in more chocolate, dance lots and plant trees.

Three Trees

2010-03-21T19:48:00.001-05:00

Trees taken while visiting the Horicon Marsh in Wisconsin. Be sure to notice the wind farm in the middle image.

Asylum Bay Lighthouse

2010-03-18T19:27:00.001-05:00

No longer in operation, this lighthouse was originally built in the 1930s and lit by a kerosene lantern. The date it ceased to be in operation is unknown. During the dredging of Lake Winnebago, a Native American burial ground was discovered. The area, near a mental asylum, was once a popular destination for picnics. It has been restored and access to the island is available by a small footbridge.
No longer in operation, this lighthouse was originally built in the 1930s and lit by kerosene. The date it ceased to be in operation is unknown. During the dredging of Lake Winnebago, a Native American burial ground was discovered. The area, near a mental asylum, was once a popular destination for picnics. It has been restored and access to the island is available by a small footbridge.

Trees on the small island. Lots of ice still covers Lake Winnebago. There was one man, with his dog, ice fishing and as we were leaving, a snowmobile could be heard. Also saw another rare event but couldn't photograph it, an inversion layer fog. So cool and with the history of the place, lent itself to some fun stories.

My Favorite Plastic Model

2010-03-18T11:37:00.001-05:00

Photos taken at Raceway Woods, a former racetrack turned park in Carpentersville, Illinois.

Playing

2010-03-15T11:39:00.001-05:00

After much thought, I decided on a new cell phone. I have really loved my last two Samsung phones. They could really take a beating, dropping in puddles and even being stepped on and only suffer cosmetic damages. I looked at the iPhone and the new Motorola BackFlip Droid with Motoblur. I went back and forth many times and really love the feature set of the iPhone but that touch screen for typing drove me crazy. I settled on the 'Droid with its keyboard and option to use a touchscreen. The phone has a 5mp (yes 5) camera with even a built-in flash. So far, I've found plenty of apps for it, too. I know iPhone has more camera apps and it is far easier to browse using the iTunes store but mostly, I wanted a phone that I could use and felt more durable in my hand.

The above photos were taken with FxCamera. The only real complaint I have with this app is the low resolution but it
is free.

Photo taken with Camera Illusion and again, low resolution but free.

As with most phones in this category, battery life is not great if you make use of all those apps. When the newness wears off and it becomes primarily a phone, I'm sure the battery will hold up better.

This and That

2010-03-12T20:14:00.001-06:00

Yesterday, while the weather was still somewhat springlike, I stepped outside with my old TtV (Through the Viewfinder) rig and snapped a few pics. The first is dried oregano and well, the second is the Wonderdog. ;-)

I got my copy of Smoke Illusions and over all, I'm pleased. If only I could hire a few proof editors but no major mistakes that I see.

The link to the Blurb bookstore is in the sidebar.

I may have to scrape together my pennies and see if I can afford to get a new off-cord flash adapter so I can experiment more with smoke photography.

Have a beautiful weekend.

Sky

2010-03-11T18:17:00.001-06:00

You all know I have a thing for the sky when it is layered with gorgeous clouds? These are just a few from this evening. Spring is definitely in the air but I can't help wonder when we'll have one last blast of winter.

Clouds on a Wing

2010-03-10T12:50:00.001-06:00

It should come as no surprise that I like to take pictures of clouds. I've been told on more than one occasion to get my head out of the clouds. ;-) Yesterday's gray, rainy skies cleared out to leave pretty, wispy clouds and a bit of color thanks in part to an air pollution alert day.

I wish you all a beautiful day whatever the weather.

Whew

2010-03-08T16:28:00.001-06:00

Home from a whirlwind trip to Ohio. We took my parents (mainly it was for my dad) to the Cleveland International Auto Show. It was much easier show to navigate than the Chicago one, that's for sure. Edward came along.

He, okay I, really love the Mustang. I just don't get Ford's reasons for clinging to that solid rear axle, rear-wheel drive platform. They claim it's to be true to the original and car enthusiasts. Okay, if that's the case, get rid of power windows, power-steering, power clutches, FM/Satellite radio and probably even A/C as those items weren't original and aren't mandated by government safety standards. It's a car I would dearly love to own if they would get rid of the solid wheel axle and make an all-wheel drive version. They could make it rear-wheel drive unless needed. As it is, if it even rains, it becomes a dangerous car to drive.

We wandered around and came upon the Kia display and Edward just had to have his photo taken with the Sock Monkey.

Mostly, I wandered around snapping a photo here and there.

Before leaving for home, I read the local paper and this obituary caught my eye. Somebody has a sense of humor.

Came home to a wonderful book, Shelter Me by Shirley (Sketches of a Common Life). It chronicles their decision to adopt not one but two shelter kittens and the first few months of their time together in both photos and a cute story.

And now I have much to do but the I'm feeling very much the desire to nap.

E

2010-03-07T08:44:00.000-06:00

Standing in the snow and ice. More experimenting with that close-up filter on the Polaroid 250.

Coffee Moose

2010-03-06T08:36:00.000-06:00

No explanation needed.

Sunny Day

2010-03-05T17:39:00.001-06:00

I took my coffee outside and played a bit. The above photo is the result of pulling two white tabs in a row instead of pulling the picture tab. Wasted what amounts to 3 images on that one pull. Oh well....

Have a great weekend. It's finally warming up around here and hoping the rain melts the rest of the snow. The sun might feel warm, but when the wind blows across the snow, it's a bit chilly.

Working Title

2010-03-02T17:25:00.001-06:00

Smoke Illusions. I decided to make the book 80 pages, adding about 10 poems/haiku and blank pages in between. I'll be uploading and ordering my copy soon. Not sure if I'll make it public until after I receive my copy.

I'm tired and feeling kind of achey tonight. Think I'll make a cup of tea and light a fire.

Smoke Illusions

2010-02-28T11:14:00.001-06:00

I started working on this book a few months back and slowly beginning to think I might publish it as is. Not that my other books have been successful in the shop but those that received my Wild and Scenic Shores as a gift enjoyed it. This book is smaller (40 pages) and won't cost as much. If I could test print with any accuracy, I'd be much more confident. I just want to make sure that it prints with good clarity. Before I can upload and make public, I have to keep an eye on my travel dates and make sure that I will be home to receive it.

I'm also contemplating a book featuring coffee and perhaps a second Polaroid book much smaller but the images will be all new (never published in book form).

It's not easy placing an image for sale let alone a book. So much of who I am goes into each image that it can feel like a personal rejection when the sales are less than stellar (or non-existent). I'm coming to terms with how silly it is to hold that opinion, after all, they are just images and sometimes words and the vastness of the Internet doesn't know me personally. If I don't set them free in some form, for others to perhaps own a piece, the part of me that is in the images will forever stay caged. Life is about taking appropriate risks and setting aside our personal fears to live a full life.

Experts

2010-02-27T10:33:00.001-06:00

I had this long entry written about suffering in my head this morning but now I'm sidetracked by earthquakes and tsunami warnings. While my heart goes out to earthquake victims and those in the path of a potential tsunami, I must speak my mind a bit. An earthquake is a geological event, not meteorological. Interviewing a meteorologist is sort of like having an eye doctor extol the virtues of your exercise equipment as an expert. While man can cause an earthquake through explosions and mining, it is still a geological event. The weather has nothing to do with earthquakes. The movement of the earth's tectonic plates has nothing to do with how warm or cold it is. I suppose as a news source, you have a meteorologist on staff but a better person to interview would be a geologist. While there is a kind of meteotsunami caused by a deep depression and atmospheric pressure the sort that creates cyclones (hurricanes), this tsunami is a direct result of a geological event (wikipedia).

Enough said.

My heart goes out to those who are suffering and hurting in Chile, even while the world is still coping with Haiti.

I return you to winter fun.

*edited for spelling

Twizzle

2010-02-25T10:59:00.001-06:00

Or featherlight in the sky. Only the first is not heavily edited.

I've made no decisions on this blog but I thank you for your kind comments and words of encouragement.

Embrace the Imperfect

2010-02-24T11:48:00.001-06:00

Embrace the imperfect might just become my mantra for 2010 for who among us is perfect?

I have often thought of calling it quits, this world we call blogging. I've not blogged anything of substance in too long to remember. But still, I keep it open and post an occasional photo remembering that I originally started this venture as a photo blog. My photos often speak for me but just as the spoken/written word can carry different meanings, my photos do the same. For me, photography has often been my way of coping with the turmoil in my life. The images I share tend to hold a moment of my life within their pixels. You just have to look with your heart to see what I'm seeing. Don't worry if you don't, though. But I do encourage you to view my photos with your heart and not your brain.

Clouds in the Sky

2010-02-24T06:42:00.000-06:00

The sky filled with the most beautiful and delicate clouds for a short time. I pulled out the camera and snapped a few photos to share. The color in the last image is a result of stacking a couple of GND filters to darken the sun. Unfortunately, as is often the case around these parts, those clouds thickened and there wasn't a colorful sunset to be experienced.

Fun With Polaroid

2010-02-23T15:16:00.001-06:00

On a rare sunny day, I stepped outside with my Polaroid in hand. The first was taken at the end of a film pack and the leader got stuck resulting in an awkward pull. The imperfect Polaroid is one of the many reasons I love Polaroid.

More on Bread

2010-02-05T16:39:00.001-06:00

This bread is from my second take on the dough and I learned a few things. While the first certainly looked pretty and tasted okay, in my haste I made a few mistakes and the crumb (interior) was off. This time, it's as I would expect.

Things I learned:

1. If you keep your house cool, you will need to let the dough rise for a lot longer than two hours. Closer to four.

2. It is important to totally incorporate the flour and water and light helps you to see that you've accomplished this task. Don't be afraid to use your hands (unless you are lucky enough to have a heavy duty stand mixer).

3. When you shape your bread, be prepared to let it rest longer than 40 minutes. Closer to 90 minutes.

4. It is incredibly difficult to wait for bread to cool before eating.

5. Bread is a serious weakness.

6. For the foreseeable future, I will be mixing up a batch of dough for the week and baking fresh bread as needed.

7. So happy that I still had my old pampered chef stoneware pizza pan. Being a pack rat can be a good thing.

8. I like to take pictures of bread.

In case you are brave enough to try this method, here is a link to a video which helped me. I tend to be very visual sometimes.

Bread

2010-02-04T17:02:00.001-06:00

The aroma of fresh baked bread has been filling my house this week as I experiment with a master recipe from the book Artisan Bread in Five Minutes a Day by Jeff Hertzerg, MD and Zoe Francois. The recipe can be found at the NY Times.

I have long wanted to bake my own bread but as I'm a bit lazy, never really embarked on the process. I know, a bread machine could have helped but with a bread machine, would I have the fabulous, crusty baguette that I so adore? I really have trouble with buying bread in the store. It doesn't taste like bread. Its consistency is just, for lack of a better word, weird. It never really turns moldy, just gooey making me wonder what I'm putting into my body.

This year, I'm trying to eat more natural foods and good fats. I think all these fake low-fat foods and substitutes have not helped us at all. They often leave us unsatisfied and eating even more. I want food that tastes good and satisfies. I know, food is only supposed to sustain life. It isn't supposed to satisfy on an emotional level but for me, it does. That doesn't have to be a negative so long as we're eating properly and not to feed the emotion. But face it, food is emotion. The aromas elicit memories and the taste can bring such joy. Why should I punish myself by not eating food that brings such joy and satisfaction? The key is to make sure that I'm not over eating or feeding an emotion. That I'm eating when I'm hungry and stopping before I'm stuffed. Slowing down and thoroughly enjoying the food that I place into my mouth. The same could be said for all of living. Slowing down, taking the time to taste, feel and enjoy life.

Will I lose weight? I hope so but what I really want is good health and to enjoy life to its fullest. And for that baguette to cool so that I can break some bread with loved ones.

A Photo Shoot

2010-02-02T12:17:00.001-06:00

Those of us that will never have access to celebrities or even a willing model, do have access to dolls. ;-) My Edward doll out for a photo shoot.

Pure Luck

2010-01-25T13:26:00.001-06:00

After taking many, many photos of the lighthouse in the hopes of capturing a wave, finally the cold won. We were walking back to the car and I happened to turn my back into the wind and what do we see but not just one wave crashing ashore but many. I swung my camera and just fired off many shots hoping that I caught at least one wave. You see, when standing on an icy beach, you are above the water line and cannot follow the line of waves as you would in the summer. You are working totally blind. To walk too near the edge could result in getting wet. I never venture too near the edge knowing that I'm standing on ice and sand that has been built upon by those icy waves. It was pure luck that I turned my back into the cold wind just as this line of waves came ashore and luck that I had yet to turn my camera off.

Kenosha, Wisconsin

Kenosha

2010-01-23T21:30:00.001-06:00

Another from our spontaneous outing to find an ice encrusted lighthouse.

Kenosha, Wisconsin (pier head lighthouse).

From Freezing Fog

2010-01-20T23:29:00.001-06:00

to freezing rain tonight. It's been a strange January. Some days just aren't that good and on those days, I either snuggle deeply into my bed or cook. Today, it was cooking. I received a Belgian waffle maker for Christmas and have been working to perfect a recipe. I'm getting close. I'm not one to make it difficult by separating the egg whites and whipping those before adding. Simple but tasty is what I want.

Icy Fog

2010-01-17T11:44:00.001-06:00

Woke up late this morning to ice fog. I bet it was really beautiful a few hours earlier.

Quiet

2010-01-16T16:57:00.001-06:00

Today has been a quiet day spent watching Buffy (shut up) on DVD. Our January thaw was short lived and a bit disappointing. Not sure if those Christmas decorations will come out of the lawn until June.

Old lighthouse in Kenosha, Wisconsin now serves as a museum.

Brrr

2010-01-14T17:18:00.001-06:00

I can't believe January is half over. Time flies when you're having fun, even if it is cold fun. Hope y'all are having a great start to the New Year.

Kenosha Pierhead Lighthouse from the beach with lots of snow and ice.

I Made This

2009-12-07T20:40:00.001-06:00

I created this after buying the pieces parts. Not sure how it'll ever fit into my car for the return trip. Might have to leave it here for my mom.

Snow Flakes

2009-12-04T06:30:00.000-06:00

Those of you who are used to getting a Christmas card from me early don't be too disappointed. I'm not even sure I'll be getting them in the mail before Christmas such is life this year. I'm much in a bah humbug spirit.

First Snow

2009-12-03T12:44:00.001-06:00

It's the first snow of this winter and I find myself wanting to hibernate but do not have the luxury to do so.

This was taken with Lensbaby Muse, Double Glass Optic and +14 close-up filters. I wish that I had purchased the composer so that I could put it on a tripod, gain a better focus lock resulting in a sharper focus point.

Beads

2009-11-24T12:15:00.001-06:00

And a not perfect shell. But it is one of the few purple shells I have. My sister claimed most of the purple and gave them to a friend. *sigh* Someday, I will go back to the OBX. Not sure who this necklace is destined but I'm sure it's going to a family member unless I decide to keep it for myself. I have such difficulty parting with one of kind items.

The Necklace

2009-11-23T11:47:00.001-06:00

I figured out what I was doing wrong and worked through the unclear directions. I used 10 lb hemp instead of 20 lb and made it longer, about 22 inches not including the drop to the shell.

Tipping

2009-11-23T10:14:00.001-06:00

The other day, I was walking into the grocery store when I saw a woman bend to pick up a quarter, stopping some traffic along the way. No big deal, right? I've done it many times. But what struck me as odd and selfish, there was a Salvation Army bell ringer standing at the door. She walked right by him, giving the quarter to her husband instead. Can you say Karma? Now that I have seen the bell ringers out and about, I will be sure to carry change and smallish bills to donate. It's the right thing to do, in my heart.

Are your plans to tip more this year or less? Will you give more to charities? I know times are tight everywhere but I also know there are many less fortunate than I. Having said that,* I will continue to give us much as I can afford and quite often, too.

*Reference to last night's Curb Your Enthusiasm and the Seinfeld Reunion episode.

Confusion

2009-11-22T14:35:00.001-06:00

I know it should be simple to follow, but it just doesn't make sense to me? I want to make this necklace but instead of the peace symbol, I'll use a shell. Maybe it's a blond thing but I've read the beginning countless times, started it and been puzzled by it many times. Any tips?

The Love of Polaroid

2009-11-17T17:38:00.001-06:00

I finally put my book together. It's been a year in the making and now it's public. You can find it on Blurb. I'm trying to relax and just set her free... what will be, will be.

Ethereal

2009-11-08T16:34:00.001-06:00

and that concludes Polaroid week.

2009-11-06T21:41:00.001-06:00

More Polaroid

2009-11-04T17:58:00.001-06:00

Cassie is my favorite model. Polaroid week continues with day 2 and day 3 entries.

Fall Polaroid Week Begins

2009-11-02T16:36:00.001-06:00

Flickr's Fall Polaroid Week 2009 began today and runs through Friday. Be sure to drop by the group pool to witness even more Polaroid goodness.

Happy Halloween

2009-10-31T10:26:00.001-05:00

Soft Optic Focus

2009-10-29T10:02:00.001-05:00

I played around a bit yesterday with the soft optic focus lens and really like the background (bokeh) blur.

Much to do today like buy some additional bags of Halloween candy. What? Did I hear photo op? You betchya.

I Love My Wonderdog

2009-10-28T20:53:00.001-05:00

Isn't she just the sweetest? I did something I so rarely do. I bought a new camera lens and accessory. Curious? I bought the Lensbaby Muse with a double glass optic for the optic swap system and the new soft focus optic. After all these years, my Lensbaby Original is completely broken in. This new one will take some time but I think I'm going to love it just as much.

Aside from that, we had a new gas furnace/ac unit installed. I can now say I've spent way too much money and must resist all the temptations placed in front of me for a while.

A leaf

2009-10-23T22:56:00.001-05:00

As much as I would like to get out and about to find autumn color in all its grandeur, until the weather improves that won't happen. I'll have to make do with leaf studies.

Untitled

2009-10-22T16:24:00.001-05:00

What did I see as I glanced at my front door? Could it, could it actually be a bright, sunny day? Indeed, yesterday was one of the best days of the month. Warm, sunny and fall color bursting forth all around. Yep, perfect.

Today, it's not only cloudy, but raining and cold.

Apple Crisp

2009-10-20T17:35:00.001-05:00

I've had a headache all day and decided to fill the house with the smell of baking apples. I chose this recipe from King Arthur Flour. The only thing I changed was to use a cast iron skillet. I have a few other apple crisp recipes I want to try before I decide which is the best. This one is okay but with my sinuses and headache, my sense of taste has been off. When the Mister arrives home, he'll be the final taste check.

Golden Woodland

2009-10-19T17:38:00.001-05:00

Just playing with my Lensbabies lens and special effects. The border was created with a film canister I modified and placed in front of the lens. It was toned in Lightroom

Are You Calling Me Chicken?

2009-10-18T07:30:00.000-05:00

What can I say? SallyCat as a chicken and through a wide angle lens. The flash and closeness of the lens create the angry eyes that you see in this. I was holding her up slightly trying my best to get a some w/a distortion and never really succeeded.

But I am a chicken, this week's photo.

I finally got a much needed haircut.

It Figures

2009-10-15T07:55:00.000-05:00

That's what Cassie's expression says to me. It figures, she's at it again. This was a session from Tuesday. I've done nothing today but run to the bathroom (TMI--need softer toilet paper).

Hoping today is a better day.

Oops

2009-10-14T11:27:00.001-05:00

A bit of me as I was placing the Wonderdog and SallyCat for their Halloween portrait. I may keep trying this but it will have to wait until I feel better. Not sure what it is, but I'm feeling sickly. Mostly, it's sinus right now and I'm a bit tired.

On a side note, I still need a haircut and thinking I'll just have to try someplace else once I start to feel more human.

Christmas Cactus

2009-10-13T13:00:00.001-05:00

I'm as impatient as this Christmas cactus, which is blooming early (and the other part will most likely bloom in December). I left a message at the place I get my hair done and waiting for a return phone call and about to give up. Maybe they aren't open today because of the Monday holiday. They are never in on Mondays. Who knows but I have things to do and left my home phone number.

Plus, I'm not feeling 100% and with H1N1 so prevalent in the area, I'm half afraid to venture out anymore, especially places like the salon. I do have to run to the post office, though. Catch y'all later. File this under the mundane.

Surprises

2009-10-11T16:17:00.001-05:00

The Mister has been full of surprises lately including this very cute OU teddy bear. I suppose it has to do with the changes in me as I attempt to be a kinder, gentler me. Not always easy but the benefits are evident and not just in the tangible gifts. It's much more relaxed and that is something I need.

But I did receive another gift, the Kindle Reader. It'll be awhile before it becomes totally incorporated into my reading as I've a ton of books scattered about, waiting for me to read but I do appreciate the thought and the gift.

I've since downloaded a few free books and set it up to check my gmail account and Google's RSS reader. The Internet portion is a bit slow but functional. The purchasing and downloading of books is quick and painless. Only time will tell if I enjoy reading electronic books.

And with that, I'm going to have a cuppa tea and try to fend off a cold that I feel developing. I wonder if it has anything to do with the furnace not working Friday night, followed by a costly repair Saturday morning and most likely a new unit next week? It's always something around these parts.

Umm, Err, Okay

2009-10-09T15:21:00.001-05:00

"You might believe that you'll be able to float through the day in a cloud of illusions, yet something you didn't bargain for can shock you out of your reverie. But even if you successfully handle an unexpected situation at work or at home, you still could miss the real meaning of what's happening. Instead of minimizing the importance of a surprise, try to understand the message that the cosmos is attempting to deliver to you."

Filed under horoscope spookiness.

Speaking of spookiness. Me and my daughter walking on a flooded road. Yes, road. Taken by my sister at a state park in the Upper Peninsula and converted/toned by me.

A New Day

2009-10-09T11:54:00.001-05:00

Okay, so this is an extremely edited image as the color was nonexistent but it fits with the news of the world. The Nobel Peace Prize is now a Major Award much like the leg lamp in A Christmas Story. I'm sorry but having a vision and inspiration is not, to me, prize-worthy. To me, awarding the Prize to President Obama cheapens it and those who have come before him. There are far more inspirational speakers out there that offer real hope and encouragement to people every day and yet they will always go as unsung. I'm just saying, it should take more than hope for change to win an award. Hope and a buck will get you a bottle of water.

Onto the mundane, I'm getting frustrated with Comcast Cable again. I don't watch much CBS but when I do, it's in HD. Lately, HD signal has been going haywire and I miss sometimes important dialogue. Oddly, this doesn't seem to happen during commercials, just the airing of the program. And last night, my DVR screwed up and didn't record Bones so I'm off to watch it on the computer.

*now playing Brandi Carlile, Pride and Joy

Sunset

2009-10-08T14:41:00.001-05:00

With a Lensbaby lens and flower aperture. And my latest necklace style. This will take much more practice to keep the loops a consistent size.

It's another of those cold, rainy days. The kind that makes me want to curl under a warm blanket in front of the fireplace, watching a movie or reading a good book. Maybe even munching on some air popped corn.

And with that, I'm going to wrap my hands around a steamy cup of hot green tea (yes, I said tea) and try to take the chill out of my bones.

New Music Tuesday

2009-10-06T15:08:00.001-05:00

Lots of new music in the last few weeks.
*A Fine Frenzy-Bomb In A Birdcage. You've heard me reference this CD in the past.
*Miranda Lambert-Revolution
*Lynyrd Skynyrd-God and Guns
*Sister Hazel-Release
*Luke Bryan-Doin' My Thing (except the song Apologize has been done many times).
*Brandi Carlile-Give Up the Ghost
*Toby Keith-American Ride.

Several just purchased today so I've not had a chance to listen to all of them yet. But I really like the Lynryd Skynyrd, A Fine Frenzy and Miranda Lambert has some good tunes, too.

Music and coffee on a dreary day, it's what is keeping me going today. Otherwise, I think I'd be curled up in bed.

Birthday Cake

2009-10-03T17:38:00.001-05:00

Not mine but rather my dad's 82nd birthday. This January will mark 10 years since his near fatal heart attack and by-pass surgery. Each day is a gift.

Dad at Ocracoke Lighthouse (Obx).

Flamigos

2009-09-26T11:03:00.001-05:00

Just a few flamingo photos taken at the Milwaukee County Zoo. See, it really is about the birds.

Sometimes It's All About The Sunset

2009-09-25T22:18:00.001-05:00

Ocracoke Island, waiting on Rt. 12 for the ferry back to Hatteras, the sky turned gorgeous.

What?

2009-09-24T07:58:00.001-05:00

I can't hear you? Sorry but this shell looks like an ear to me.

And another bird or two.

Beach and Birds

2009-09-23T11:58:00.001-05:00

Sometimes it's all about the birds.

Outer Banks, NC.

Memories

2009-09-22T09:56:00.001-05:00

and sleepy memories at that. I was awoken by my cell phone ringing at an ungodly early hour. Okay, early for me (before 6:30 a.m.). I look at the caller ID and it's my dad so I answer only to discover he pocket dialed me!! I suppose that's a good thing otherwise a call that early could have meant trouble. Well, maybe he was calling my niece, whose birthday it is today. Either way, I was awake after a night of barely sleeping. I decided to treat myself to a latte for my morning coffee and a bit of reflection. The shell on top of the Polaroid is special. I was standing on a beach watching as the waves washed over my feet. I looked down and saw this shell but not before another wave came. I feared I had missed my opportunity to claim this shell. My fears were not realized as the wave deposited the shell upon my foot. It's not large but it's nearly perfect and the moment is one that I will treasure. I didn't bring home tons of shells but what I did bring home are special.

The candle was found in a little shop in Manteo on Roanoke Island (Outer Banks).

Sadness

2009-09-21T12:02:00.001-05:00

I'm not sure she was actually sad but it certainly looks that way to me today as I look at the image. She had been kind of playing with me. Looking away and back again to see where I had gone. At least I think that's what she was doing. So often we attribute human emotions to the actions of animals and in that we are not necessarily correct. But perhaps, in the eyes of this lovely gorilla, I see sadness as that is what I feel? Too deep for Monday morning ramblings and I've much to do today as I am falling behind on much of the household work.

*Now playing: Eight Crazy Hours (In The Story Of Love), Reba McEntire from Keep On Loving You

Quiet

2009-09-20T12:08:00.001-05:00

Feeling a bit quiet, reflective and even a bit anti-social today.

In the words of E.K. *

Afar from mine own
self I seem,

I've been so disconnected and out of tune with who I am and the Universe and not sure how to reconnect. And just as I feel the need to be alone, the husband decides to spend the day with me. So excuse me while I go paint on my happy face.

*Partial/incomplete writing and probably shouldn't share it here but it's what I feel lately. If you ever read this and wish, I will take it down.

Horsehoe Crab

2009-09-19T09:01:00.001-05:00

It's another beautiful day across Chicagoland. Too nice to spend it indoors but before I head off into the wild blue yonder, thought I'd share another view of the horseshoe crab.

Wishes

2009-09-18T21:01:00.001-05:00

Oh how I wish I was back at the Outer Banks, walking the beaches looking for little gems. I can almost feel the wind whipping my hair and taste the salt. Even without a Target in sight, I do believe I could live on the Outer Banks. Too bad there isn't much in the way of manufacturing for the Mister to find employment.

The photo is of a Horseshoe Crab along the beaches across from Pea Island Wildlife Refuge.

Off to dream of ocean breezes.

Shells

2009-09-17T18:24:00.001-05:00

When I go someplace on vacation, I typically bring back a special rock found along a shore or a shell. I have even been known to buy a necklace made with a local stone. While visiting the Outer Banks, I looked in several shops for a necklace made locally of shell and couldn't find anything. Google to the rescue and I decided to attempt to make my own. Several false starts and I finally had the proper tools, a dremel with a diamond coated, cone bit and water to keep the shell from overheating and breaking.

This first one was on a practice shell. The following have become necklaces with many more awaiting my inspiration.

With a little ingenuity, I have my own special memento from the Outer Banks made even more special as I collected the shells and made the necklace myself.

The Beacon

2009-09-16T10:22:00.001-05:00

I found a new favorite song by A Fine Frenzy called The Beacon.

Some of the lyrics:

You were a child forgot
Lessons of love untaught
Now no embrace can quite replace
The one that never found you

I was raised tenderly
All that was taught to me
I will apply, your parents tried but they didn't know how to

Burning beacon in the night
Can't feel its heat, or see its light
That single solitary guide, it must get lonely there sometimes

It was a total surprise, this song. I bought the CD (or more precisely, digital download of the entire CD) based solely on the first release. Those who followed me for any length of time know my fondness for lighthouses. They are a symbol of guidance. A guide that still requires you to do the work as they shine brightly, attempting to light your path. Your choice, follow the path with a light to guide or wander aimlessly in the dark. Lately I've been wandering aimlessly.

A YouTube video link that may vanish as it is probably not official. The Beacon

And with that, I shall bid you a good day.

Hyena

2009-09-13T21:43:00.001-05:00

I don't know if you can tell but in the bottom one, he is drooling while watching the people, especially the children. These hyena freaked me out like no other.

Taken at the Milwaukee Zoo through the glass and without my polarizer (I forgot it at home) to eliminate glare. Today was one of those rare days across Chicagoland when Abundance and Sunshine could be uttered in the same sentence. We took advantage of the weather by going to the zoo. I'm not one to turn down a zoo trip. Came home and watched True Blood's season finale. I sure do wish for a longer season. Now, the Packers/Bears game is on and I'm recording Army Wives.

Mug

2009-09-13T09:25:00.001-05:00

Just so you know, I wasn't kidding when I said the mugs my husband use are gross. This is one that is terribly stained and yes, it is clean having just come from the dishwasher. He ruins all his mugs in this way, even the ones that are black.

On to a scenic photo.

Sunset as seen waiting for the ferry on Ocracoke Island. I had plenty of time in this spot as it took an hour from the time we got in the line to the time we boarded. Fortunately, this time was a typical boarding.

On another note, with the MacBook, I see splotchy spots in the black, where it would be without detail. I think it's just a Mac thing but it bugs me. I really need to save my dollars for Photoshop CS so I can do individual color corrections.

Oops

2009-09-12T10:11:00.001-05:00

Yesterday's morning photo was supposed to be this one, with the little light in the background. Similar but not quite the same just as no two mornings are ever really the same and just as you can't really ever repeat an experience. There can only be one first time. Each moment in each day is unique and should not be taken for granted. Once a moment passes, that's it. Gone. Can't really relive it, unless you live in Hollywood set or have some strange brain injury but even then, the moment isn't really the same as those around you can attest.

Where am I going with this? Perhaps a return to a more meaningful blog. But as I've just written, one can't go back.....

And now I'm distracted as the Mister walked into the room with one of my coffee mugs, one bought with a gift card given to me by a dear friend and he knows not to use my mugs. You see, he leaves his coffee sit in the bottom and ruins them all. Every single mug that he uses is gross on the bottom. How many times do I have to ask him not to do something before he'll listen? And why, when I get angry or mention it is it always me being an unreasonable nag? Am I supposed to thank you for doing something I have asked you not to do for oh about 23 years now? Am I supposed to always be the one to let it go? Now, the mug sits, with his coffee in it as he says he won't drink it and off he goes... to do his own thing. And I'm sure I'll go through the cupboard and make sure all my mugs are put away in my own little stand.

Back on track... the words spoken can't be taken back. The feeling can't be ignored. They happened and that's that. On to the next moment with those memories lingering. When will I learn to let go the past and live totally in the now?

Morning

2009-09-11T17:39:00.001-05:00

Some mornings arrive in blaze of color and others break into dawn, gently with little fanfare.

Kill Devil Hills, Outer Banks, NC taken early morning as high tide neared. Turned into a partly cloudy day that ended in a blaze of color.

Ocracoke Lighthouse

2009-09-10T21:18:00.001-05:00

Located on Ocracoke (sounds like Okra Coke) Island. The island is reached from Hatteras by a free car ferry. It is about 16 miles in length with only the last few miles comprising the town of Ocracoke. You can certainly find stretches of private beach along these shores along with plenty of 4x4 beach trails. The beach front is part of Cape Hatteras National Seashore. There is a section fenced off for the wild horse to roam, although I only saw the few in a pen. By law, the wild horse of the Outer Banks are not permitted to roam and must be kept penned. If you go to this little island during the season, expect long waits for the ferry and a caveat, the shops appear to close up early but most of the dining was open.

If I weren't so tired, I'm sure this little travel log would be more coherent.

The Tide is High

2009-09-08T08:53:00.001-05:00

But I'm holding on....

Kill Devil Hills, NC Outer Banks. The beach just down the road from us. We stayed near the Wright Brother's Memorial in Kill Devil Hills. We had a lovely time just not enough.

I'm still not home, will return in a few days.

Look color in the sky!

2009-09-04T20:20:00.001-05:00

And without a real camera. Still gorgeous even if it's at a Factory Outlet Center.

Kill Devil Hills, OBX

2009-09-04T07:48:00.001-05:00

Having trouble uploading straight from my phone to blogger. Trying this again.

Soon to be

2009-08-31T13:19:00.001-05:00

on the road again. Here's hoping for better weather on this short stay. Not going to the UP this time, nope going to the Outer Banks (OBX).

French Toast

2009-08-30T11:27:00.001-05:00

French Toast with bananas.

**note: if you make the peaches, make sure to spread melted butter.

Grilled Peaches

2009-08-29T23:34:00.001-05:00

It seems cooking and taking photos of the food I've prepared could just be a coping mechanism. Just saying, that's all.

Grilled peaches are quite tasty and super easy especially if you have a grill pan (cast iron preferably). Halve the peach, removing the pit, spread some melted butter* on the halves and grill until hot. I served it with sweetened sour cream.

*Melted Butter. Edited for clarity and accuracy.

Tonight's Dinner

2009-08-25T19:21:00.001-05:00

I watched some Food Network this weekend and saw part of "What Would Brian Boitano Make?" The first thing was this Avocado Crostini that was supposed to contain crab meat. I skipped the crab meat and what was left is quite yummy.

I served it up with a salad taken from one of Giada's cookbooks.

Arugula, cantaloup, toasted walnuts, red onions and a raspberry vinaigrette.

Hanging On

2009-08-23T13:41:00.001-05:00

Chapel Rock, Pictured Rocks Boat Tour. This arch was once attached to the mainland. The roots still cling and the tree still grows.

SIGG

2009-08-21T11:05:00.000-05:00

Last year, after purging my house of many plastic bottles, I read about SIGG bottles and their claims of being BPA free. Now I find out that SIGG was misleading. Read the letter from the CEO of SIGG USA. Read more about it here at Z Recommends. I find a company that misleads through omission and claims of propriety to be distasteful as the water the liner was protecting. I don't have a problem with the liner, per se, but the deception.

I am unsure whether I will contact SIGG to inquire about replacement as do I really want another bottle from a company that was/is so willing to deceive the consumer to make a buck? Make no mistake, this admission and changing of the liner is a political move as moves are made to ban all use of BPA. An informed decision is all that I require and SIGG took that away from me through deceitful practices. For me, that's a deal closer. As I mainly purchased the bottle for environmental reasons, I will go back to recycling the disposable bottles.

Oklahoma Skies

2009-08-20T17:31:00.001-05:00

From the hotel parking lot on Sunday evening, our 23 wedding anniversary. Wish I could say it was a great day but sometimes, life happens.

The first few days after we drop M off at school are always the most difficult. Soon, the house will sigh and the loneliness will be taken over by the normal. Until then, I'll do my best to put on my happy face.