Rebecca is this weeks artist with a little bit of help from me and Charm City Cupcakes.
On Saturday I took Rebecca to a cupcake decorating event by Charm City Cupcakes over in Richmond Marriott. Earlier in the week a Groupon popped offering this event at almost half off. After a quick call to Larry to see if it was possible, I snagged a ticket for the Mommy/Daddy and Me session. When I told Rebecca what we would be doing she was absolutely thrilled.
Rebecca and I had a great time. We ran into a friend of hers from school who was also attending our session. The two girls were delighted to find each other and happily they could sit next to each other. Then we got down to business.
Each team had three mugs filled with excellent butter-cream icing, three mixing spoons and a decorating kit with for decorating tips and a 1/2 disposable pastry bags. On the table for all to share were assorted concentrated food coloring. The head chef directed us what to do with the tips and bags. Then the staff went around to demonstrate up close the techniques the head chef was showing us. Each team was issued 6 cupcakes and were allowed three types of sprinkles and three inedible objects to place on the cupcakes. Once we had the basics we were set loose.
We had four chocolate cupcakes and two vanilla.Rebecca decided to use the filling tip on two of the chocolate ones. She had a lot of fun squeezing in frosting into the cupcakes. Then it was time to frost. I did the basics of the three in the upper left hand corner, the sprinkles and plastic picks were by Rebecca as were the three in the lower right. The session flew by and then it was time to pack up our creations and head home. The box they gave us was pretty nifty, it had individual holes for cupcakes to be nestled in. No crashing about and being upturned.
I think the cupcakes turned out beautifully and we had a wonderful time together.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Meet Dave
This is Dave, the latest addition to our menagerie.
Last week Nate asked if he could have a gecko, they are quiet, clean, and virtually no scent. These are all wonderful qualities, but I said no.
Literally the next day I got an IM from a friend in the neighborhood. She was wondering if we would like to have a gecko. Her middle child had gone off to college and her youngest had no interest.
When I read her initial question I burst out laughing. Apparently we were meant to have a gecko. After a quick call to Larry to clear it with him, I told my friend yes. We will take the gecko.
Sunday afternoon we stopped by to collect our new pet. His full name is Dave Matthews, but we'll stick with just Dave.
Last week Nate asked if he could have a gecko, they are quiet, clean, and virtually no scent. These are all wonderful qualities, but I said no.
Literally the next day I got an IM from a friend in the neighborhood. She was wondering if we would like to have a gecko. Her middle child had gone off to college and her youngest had no interest.
When I read her initial question I burst out laughing. Apparently we were meant to have a gecko. After a quick call to Larry to clear it with him, I told my friend yes. We will take the gecko.
Sunday afternoon we stopped by to collect our new pet. His full name is Dave Matthews, but we'll stick with just Dave.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Avalokiteshwara Performance - Buddha of Compassion
An amazing performance, however it moves on to jaw dropping when you learn that the performers are deaf. Admittedly they can feel the vibrations of the music through the floor, but to attain the level of coordinated precision without music is incredible.
Sunday, September 25, 2011
MCP Project 52: The Eyes Have It
I swear this is the last pirate themed picture until at least Halloween.
The theme this past week for MCP Project 52 was "The Eyes Have It" and the red boys have such expressive eyes in this picture. John has a wary eye and Dell seems to be looking towards John for support, a fairly accurate portrayal of the two.
I had not particular ideas in mind for this week's theme, I basically fell into it. I was going through the pictures I took of the dogs in honor of "Talk Like a Pirate Day" when I realized I had a good picture for MCP Project 52.
As a result I submitted early on in the week. Of course, as though to balance things out, I forgot to write up the picture on Friday. Either way this was the selected picture and I think it's a hoot.
The theme this past week for MCP Project 52 was "The Eyes Have It" and the red boys have such expressive eyes in this picture. John has a wary eye and Dell seems to be looking towards John for support, a fairly accurate portrayal of the two.
I had not particular ideas in mind for this week's theme, I basically fell into it. I was going through the pictures I took of the dogs in honor of "Talk Like a Pirate Day" when I realized I had a good picture for MCP Project 52.
As a result I submitted early on in the week. Of course, as though to balance things out, I forgot to write up the picture on Friday. Either way this was the selected picture and I think it's a hoot.
Friday, September 23, 2011
One Last Scallywag
When Rebecca found on Monday it was Talk Like a Pirate Day she wanted to be part of the fun. She felt the dogs shouldn't be the only ones wearing the pirate hats.
So she relieved Dell of his hat, jammed it on her head, and struck a pose. Who was I to deny her the photo. I must say she wears the hat well, Rebecca is just brimming with confidence. She looks well suited to manning the helm of her own frigate.
So she relieved Dell of his hat, jammed it on her head, and struck a pose. Who was I to deny her the photo. I must say she wears the hat well, Rebecca is just brimming with confidence. She looks well suited to manning the helm of her own frigate.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Artist of the Week: Up and Coming
This week's artist is the very affable Jacob.
This was taken at the county fair. I'm not exactly sure who he is waving to, I do know that he was chatting with Max. It could be a sort of Mom-has-the-camera-let's-wave-and-make-her-happy sort of thing. I'll never know, teenagers are mysterious creatures.
Teenager.
That is a scary word and I still can't get over the fact that I'm the mother to one and soon to be two. Even scarier is that Jacob is taking driver's ed at school. I think I need to stop with the scary thoughts and move onto happier things, like Artist of the Week.
Which brings us to marching band. This past week Jacob's band got to perform at a local University during a football game. It was very exciting, however... Jacob was a bit disappointed that the band could only play music when the ball was dead or halftime. As he put it, "It was hard to get pumped up when you can't play." So his solution was to dance.
He turned out to be quite a dancer. Another band member joined in and color guarded cheered him on by chanting "Go Jacob! Go Jacob!" So not only does he play the trumpet, Jacob is an up and coming dance sensation. I wish I could have been there, this was all reported to me after the fact by Jacob and his father. It sounded like a good time.
This was taken at the county fair. I'm not exactly sure who he is waving to, I do know that he was chatting with Max. It could be a sort of Mom-has-the-camera-let's-wave-and-make-her-happy sort of thing. I'll never know, teenagers are mysterious creatures.
Teenager.
That is a scary word and I still can't get over the fact that I'm the mother to one and soon to be two. Even scarier is that Jacob is taking driver's ed at school. I think I need to stop with the scary thoughts and move onto happier things, like Artist of the Week.
Which brings us to marching band. This past week Jacob's band got to perform at a local University during a football game. It was very exciting, however... Jacob was a bit disappointed that the band could only play music when the ball was dead or halftime. As he put it, "It was hard to get pumped up when you can't play." So his solution was to dance.
He turned out to be quite a dancer. Another band member joined in and color guarded cheered him on by chanting "Go Jacob! Go Jacob!" So not only does he play the trumpet, Jacob is an up and coming dance sensation. I wish I could have been there, this was all reported to me after the fact by Jacob and his father. It sounded like a good time.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Argh, Just Take My Picture Already
John is such a patient and cooperative dog. That is why he got stuck with the eye patch. It was just challenge enough getting a hat on Delly. John would sit there waiting 5, almost 10 minutes with the eye patch before he would rub it off. With Dell...
Well this is how the photo shoot went.
Find hats, eye patch, and camera. Take all of that outside along with the dogs.
Place John on the deck box, place eye patch and hat on his head, then tell him to wait.
Try to pick up Dell. Dell flops over for a tummy rub.
Man handle Dell onto deck box and stop him from leaping off.
Try to place hat on Dell's head, he flops over for a tummy rub. Haul Dell into an upright position. Repeat a half dozen or so times until Dell figures out that a tummy is not going to happen and decides to sit.
Jam hat on Dell's head. Adjust John's eye patch take pictures while periodically repositioning Dell's hat and stopping Dell from leaping down.
Release dogs, download pictures discovered the best pose is blurry.
Round up dogs, get smart and show them I have treats. Dell no longer wants a belly rub, now he is all OMG SHE HAS FOOD, I LOVE FOOD! GIMME FOOD!!!!
After a minute Dell settles down, John sighs, and I take more pictures.
End of shoot dogs get treats.
That's one way to spend a Monday morning.
Well this is how the photo shoot went.
Find hats, eye patch, and camera. Take all of that outside along with the dogs.
Place John on the deck box, place eye patch and hat on his head, then tell him to wait.
Try to pick up Dell. Dell flops over for a tummy rub.
Man handle Dell onto deck box and stop him from leaping off.
Try to place hat on Dell's head, he flops over for a tummy rub. Haul Dell into an upright position. Repeat a half dozen or so times until Dell figures out that a tummy is not going to happen and decides to sit.
Jam hat on Dell's head. Adjust John's eye patch take pictures while periodically repositioning Dell's hat and stopping Dell from leaping down.
Release dogs, download pictures discovered the best pose is blurry.
Round up dogs, get smart and show them I have treats. Dell no longer wants a belly rub, now he is all OMG SHE HAS FOOD, I LOVE FOOD! GIMME FOOD!!!!
After a minute Dell settles down, John sighs, and I take more pictures.
End of shoot dogs get treats.
That's one way to spend a Monday morning.
Monday, September 19, 2011
Ahoy There!
Those two old sea dogs, Capt. Dell and Capt. John, be all dressed up for "Talk Like a Pirate Day." They be keepin' an eye out for booty and their arch nemesis, t' evil squirrels.
We hope you have fair weather, a steady breeze, and your grog be not watered down!
We hope you have fair weather, a steady breeze, and your grog be not watered down!
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Farmville
Not the game, the actual town.
I've been amused by the whole Farmville thing over on Facebook. Mind you I don't play the game, instead I keep thinking about how there is a very real place in Virginia called Farmville.
I had been by there years and years ago, long before the game ever existed. It wasn't terribly significant to me back then, other than the rather odd name. Fast forward back to the present, the town's name has had a whole new dimension added. The funny part is that Farmville is relatively built up. It had far more to offer than the quiet county of Cumberland where Bear Creek Lake State Park is located.
So when I went there this summer I just had to take a picture of the "Welcome to Farmville" sign.
I've been amused by the whole Farmville thing over on Facebook. Mind you I don't play the game, instead I keep thinking about how there is a very real place in Virginia called Farmville.
I had been by there years and years ago, long before the game ever existed. It wasn't terribly significant to me back then, other than the rather odd name. Fast forward back to the present, the town's name has had a whole new dimension added. The funny part is that Farmville is relatively built up. It had far more to offer than the quiet county of Cumberland where Bear Creek Lake State Park is located.
So when I went there this summer I just had to take a picture of the "Welcome to Farmville" sign.
Friday, September 16, 2011
MCP Project 52: Momentous Moment
Yes I know I already posted this particular picture earlier this week, but I hadn't decided to make it my MCP Project 52 entry until yesterday.
Until yesterday I was stumped and a bit annoyed with myself. The wedding we attended would have been perfect subject matter for the theme "Momentous Moment," but I screwed up. We were halfway to the airport when I realized I had left my camera at home.
Duoh!
I tried taking pictures with my cell phone, but honestly they all stunk. No amount of photoshoppery would bring them to a level I would deem fit for public viewing. So I stewed and racked my brains.Then I realized I had gotten some lovely cloud pictures on flight back home. Which got me to thinking about our flight and then it hit me, this would be my take on a momentous moment.
This doesn't seem momentous, but it is. I took this picture on Sept 11th while flying from Chicago to Richmond. It was a full flight and it seemed like another day. Everything that day at the two airports was utterly normal, from the slog through security, overbooked announcements, the jockeying for luggage space, and the perfectly ordinary wait for checked bags. That to me is momentous.
So sometimes a perfectly ordinary trip on a not so ordinary day can be a something utterly amazing.
Until yesterday I was stumped and a bit annoyed with myself. The wedding we attended would have been perfect subject matter for the theme "Momentous Moment," but I screwed up. We were halfway to the airport when I realized I had left my camera at home.
Duoh!
I tried taking pictures with my cell phone, but honestly they all stunk. No amount of photoshoppery would bring them to a level I would deem fit for public viewing. So I stewed and racked my brains.Then I realized I had gotten some lovely cloud pictures on flight back home. Which got me to thinking about our flight and then it hit me, this would be my take on a momentous moment.
This doesn't seem momentous, but it is. I took this picture on Sept 11th while flying from Chicago to Richmond. It was a full flight and it seemed like another day. Everything that day at the two airports was utterly normal, from the slog through security, overbooked announcements, the jockeying for luggage space, and the perfectly ordinary wait for checked bags. That to me is momentous.
So sometimes a perfectly ordinary trip on a not so ordinary day can be a something utterly amazing.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Sleepy
The dreaded end of summer cold drags on and all I want to do is sleep. However a parent's work is never done and I have to soldier on. At least everybody is back in school.
Thus ends a less than scintillating post, punctuated by two sneezes.
Thus ends a less than scintillating post, punctuated by two sneezes.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Artist of the Week: Book
This week's artist is my Uncle Hector. I've featured him before when he had a show way back in June of 2006. This time, however I'm focusing on this older body of work.
Last Christmas I was told by my mother a book was in the works concerning Hector's oeuvre. She had been requested to take photographs of any piece she had by Hector. Since they had been friends since college, my mother had some of his earliest works. My job was to take these photos and send them in. I happily did my mother's biding. I ended up taking down most of the pictures and moving them to a sunny room. I had no tripod, insufficient light, and a camera not quite up to snuff for the sort of precision in color I needed. So pictures weren't the best, but they were good enough for Hector to get an idea of what my mother has, though I was slow in sending them off.
Anyhoo, I got word this week on which paintings were wanted for the book. All that was left to do was find a photographer experienced in taking accurate pictures of paintings. It was suggested that I look towards local colleges and work from there.
And that is what has been keeping me busy this week. Dartmouth is near my mother and it has a decent art department. However they seem more focused on sculpture and painting and not so much on photography. I then got the great idea to check out the Hood Museum of Art. The college has been collecting art since 1772 and I figured that they most know of a photographer tat would fill the bill.
It turns out that was a good idea and I just may have found the right person for the job.
As for the selected paintings, the orange one featured here made the cut. It is my mother's favorite and was named by my parents "Jail.in the Desert."
Last Christmas I was told by my mother a book was in the works concerning Hector's oeuvre. She had been requested to take photographs of any piece she had by Hector. Since they had been friends since college, my mother had some of his earliest works. My job was to take these photos and send them in. I happily did my mother's biding. I ended up taking down most of the pictures and moving them to a sunny room. I had no tripod, insufficient light, and a camera not quite up to snuff for the sort of precision in color I needed. So pictures weren't the best, but they were good enough for Hector to get an idea of what my mother has, though I was slow in sending them off.
Anyhoo, I got word this week on which paintings were wanted for the book. All that was left to do was find a photographer experienced in taking accurate pictures of paintings. It was suggested that I look towards local colleges and work from there.
And that is what has been keeping me busy this week. Dartmouth is near my mother and it has a decent art department. However they seem more focused on sculpture and painting and not so much on photography. I then got the great idea to check out the Hood Museum of Art. The college has been collecting art since 1772 and I figured that they most know of a photographer tat would fill the bill.
It turns out that was a good idea and I just may have found the right person for the job.
As for the selected paintings, the orange one featured here made the cut. It is my mother's favorite and was named by my parents "Jail.in the Desert."
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Cloudy With a Chance of Cough
This is how my head feels.
It's not completely stuffed, but it is cloudy in there.
I went to Chicago this weekend with Larry for a wedding. The Groom was a friend of Larry's from Grad school and Larry was in the wedding party. Which meant we got fabulously fed all weekend long. We also met up a college friend and his family (they too have four kids that we finally got to meet in person) and a friend of mine from high school. The only meal we paid for was a quick bite to eat at the airport while we experienced a presidential delay.
The President was in Richmond and the airport got locked down before our flight was scheduled to appear. While the commander in chief was being driven to the airport, boarding Air Force One (which I might state is huge in person. I know it's a 747, but dang all that for one man), and jetting away; no planes were allowed to land or takeoff. As a result our poor plane had to refuel in Norfolk before landing in Richmond. So we had a one hour delay because of the whole presidential visit. We had a direct flight, but quite a few peopled missed their connections. Unfortunately I forgot to bring a camera, but I was able to get a few pictures with my cell phone.
So except for that (and my stupid cold from traveling in airplanes), we had a wonderful time.
It's not completely stuffed, but it is cloudy in there.
I went to Chicago this weekend with Larry for a wedding. The Groom was a friend of Larry's from Grad school and Larry was in the wedding party. Which meant we got fabulously fed all weekend long. We also met up a college friend and his family (they too have four kids that we finally got to meet in person) and a friend of mine from high school. The only meal we paid for was a quick bite to eat at the airport while we experienced a presidential delay.
The President was in Richmond and the airport got locked down before our flight was scheduled to appear. While the commander in chief was being driven to the airport, boarding Air Force One (which I might state is huge in person. I know it's a 747, but dang all that for one man), and jetting away; no planes were allowed to land or takeoff. As a result our poor plane had to refuel in Norfolk before landing in Richmond. So we had a one hour delay because of the whole presidential visit. We had a direct flight, but quite a few peopled missed their connections. Unfortunately I forgot to bring a camera, but I was able to get a few pictures with my cell phone.
So except for that (and my stupid cold from traveling in airplanes), we had a wonderful time.
Monday, September 12, 2011
Jazz for Cows
This clip was featured over at Fetch My Flying Monkeys in the sidebar and I just had to share it with y'all. I never thought of cows being at all musically inclined, but apparently they are intrigued by Jazz. A delightful clip of some very lucky French cows listening to The New Hot 5.
I Remember
I remember that 10 years ago I was heavily (a mean heavily) pregnant with Max and Rebecca. That morning I had gotten Jake off to kindergarten on the bus and was coming back from dropping off Nate at preschool and had decided to listen to the radio on the way home. I was confused about the breaking news story, I somehow thought they were referencing an earlier incident with a small plane. It wasn't until I got home and turned on the tv that the enormity of what was happening hit.
I was stunned.
My husband, a state worker soon came home and we sat there watching it all unfold. When it was time to pick up Nate and meet Jake at the bus we tried to keep things as normal as possible for our young sons. At five and nearly three it was all too much for them.
Since then I've participated in Project 2996 by contributing three profiles:
Robert Garvin McCarthy
Martin Boryczewski
William Christopher Sugra
I was out of town this weekend and was unable to do another (the list was still being updated before I left), but I will try to do another.
I was stunned.
My husband, a state worker soon came home and we sat there watching it all unfold. When it was time to pick up Nate and meet Jake at the bus we tried to keep things as normal as possible for our young sons. At five and nearly three it was all too much for them.
Since then I've participated in Project 2996 by contributing three profiles:
Robert Garvin McCarthy
Martin Boryczewski
William Christopher Sugra
I was out of town this weekend and was unable to do another (the list was still being updated before I left), but I will try to do another.
Friday, September 09, 2011
MCP Project 52: Thirst for Knowledge
In honor of the start of the school year, this week's theme was "Thirst for Knowledge."
I decided that something to do with homework would be the way to go. When I saw my two eldest sons' homework spread out on the kitchen table I knew that was the shot. I particularly like the algebra text books, having both 1 and 2 conveys aptly the theme.
I decided that something to do with homework would be the way to go. When I saw my two eldest sons' homework spread out on the kitchen table I knew that was the shot. I particularly like the algebra text books, having both 1 and 2 conveys aptly the theme.
Thursday, September 08, 2011
Looking Forward to the Weekend
Lots of big doings going on around here this weekend. We have grandparents visiting, a football game, and the start of Hebrew school to name a few. Even the red boys have something happening.
Wednesday, September 07, 2011
Artist of the week: Decorated
This week's artist is my very own bumper car baby, Rebecca
The last hurrah for summer around here is the county fair. Held the last week of summer vacation before school starts, nothing and I mean nothing is going to cancel it. This year we had an earthquake before it opened and a hurricane during the first weekend. The fair did close down for a day and a half, but in the end the show must go on.
We ended up going last Friday and met up with Meryl and her niece. Meryl's niece, S, is a delightful young woman who is a few years older than Jake. The two of them hit it off with their mutual love of all things geeky and a similar sense of humor. As for Rebecca, she loved had another girl around. The two girls had fun on rides like the scrambler and bumper cars (Max had fun with S as well, but this isn't about him).
Anyhoo we met up with Meryl and her niece at the arts and crafts building. Rebecca had decided to put in and entry this year in decorated cakes. Last spring she had taken a short cake decorating class after school and she was hot to try her luck at the county fair. And it turned out her cake had garnered third place.
The only criticism has they use of plastic decorations. Rebecca would have in all likelihood placed higher if frosting had been used to make the fish and ducks. The kind lady manning the table when we picked up our entries and winnings told us that the cake was gorgeous and hoped that Rebecca would try again next year.
And I think it's pretty sake to say Rebecca will try her hand at decorating a cake next year. She did a great job this year and was able to do the whole thing herself. My only contribution was to mix up the frosting with food coloring and find the styrofoam cake form.
The last hurrah for summer around here is the county fair. Held the last week of summer vacation before school starts, nothing and I mean nothing is going to cancel it. This year we had an earthquake before it opened and a hurricane during the first weekend. The fair did close down for a day and a half, but in the end the show must go on.
We ended up going last Friday and met up with Meryl and her niece. Meryl's niece, S, is a delightful young woman who is a few years older than Jake. The two of them hit it off with their mutual love of all things geeky and a similar sense of humor. As for Rebecca, she loved had another girl around. The two girls had fun on rides like the scrambler and bumper cars (Max had fun with S as well, but this isn't about him).
Anyhoo we met up with Meryl and her niece at the arts and crafts building. Rebecca had decided to put in and entry this year in decorated cakes. Last spring she had taken a short cake decorating class after school and she was hot to try her luck at the county fair. And it turned out her cake had garnered third place.
The only criticism has they use of plastic decorations. Rebecca would have in all likelihood placed higher if frosting had been used to make the fish and ducks. The kind lady manning the table when we picked up our entries and winnings told us that the cake was gorgeous and hoped that Rebecca would try again next year.
And I think it's pretty sake to say Rebecca will try her hand at decorating a cake next year. She did a great job this year and was able to do the whole thing herself. My only contribution was to mix up the frosting with food coloring and find the styrofoam cake form.
Tuesday, September 06, 2011
First Day of School
And I failed.
Everybody made it school on time with coats and lunches for those browning bagging, but I completely and utterly failed to take the first day of school pictures. In my defense it was utterly pouring outside and I was more interested in making sure they all had raincoats then taking pictures. Pictures that would be meh at best due to the wet weather and dark skies.
As for the actual first day of school, well all four had a very good first day.
Everybody made it school on time with coats and lunches for those browning bagging, but I completely and utterly failed to take the first day of school pictures. In my defense it was utterly pouring outside and I was more interested in making sure they all had raincoats then taking pictures. Pictures that would be meh at best due to the wet weather and dark skies.
As for the actual first day of school, well all four had a very good first day.
Monday, September 05, 2011
Tir Nan Og
Another sort of crow themed short animation. This one is of a very different style from last week's short feature.Directed by Fursy Teyssier who was primarily an ilustrator that has since branched out into animation, music and painting.
Sunday, September 04, 2011
Shiny
Most of my pictures are the result of something catching my eye. When it happens and I have the time, I'm all over the subject. Sometimes I'm stuck with just my cell's far less than ideal camera, but I've learned how best to use it. Other times, like with this picture, I have a proper camera in hand.
A week and a half ago I was walking towards the shady area by the parking lot where band camp takes place. Along the edge of the lot were two tubas, carefully laid out on beach towels. I felt a bit like a magpie the way the shiny brass bells just pulled me in. The warm golden tones with the battered surface begged to be photographed.
And so I did.
A week and a half ago I was walking towards the shady area by the parking lot where band camp takes place. Along the edge of the lot were two tubas, carefully laid out on beach towels. I felt a bit like a magpie the way the shiny brass bells just pulled me in. The warm golden tones with the battered surface begged to be photographed.
And so I did.
Friday, September 02, 2011
MCP Project 52: Lazy
This week's theme was lazy and lazy is what I want to be after this past week and a half.
Between earthquakes, hurricanes, and a house guest (who got moved over to Meryl because 1-she never lost power and 2-she's awesome that way) I haven't had a whole lot of time to sit around.
And that is what I plan to do this Tuesday after I drop kick the kids onto the bus for their first day of school.
Between earthquakes, hurricanes, and a house guest (who got moved over to Meryl because 1-she never lost power and 2-she's awesome that way) I haven't had a whole lot of time to sit around.
And that is what I plan to do this Tuesday after I drop kick the kids onto the bus for their first day of school.
Thursday, September 01, 2011
Police Lineup
Last week, can it really be just last week, I was sitting outside during band camp. My job was to keep an eye out for kids suffering from heat exhaustion and to help them out. Which considering the mild weather was a pretty easy task.
Anyhoo, at about 10:30 am a couple of police cruisers pulled up in front of the school in the drive between the parking lot where we were stationed on and the high school. A curious event considering that school wasn't due to be in session until after Labor day. The mystery deepened when more cruisers pulled into the drive. It was a bit disconcerting to see such a strong police presence.
However our concern turned to amusement when the cars started to number in the double digits. At one point I counted 17 police cars. The whole situation was so absurd I had to take a picture. I couldn't get all of the cars in the frame, but what I did get was pretty impressive.
As to why they were there, the police department had scheduled some sort of drill at the high school. We got to see all the cops file into the building and come out a short while later.
But I like to think it was a show of force to help keep the marching and in line.
Anyhoo, at about 10:30 am a couple of police cruisers pulled up in front of the school in the drive between the parking lot where we were stationed on and the high school. A curious event considering that school wasn't due to be in session until after Labor day. The mystery deepened when more cruisers pulled into the drive. It was a bit disconcerting to see such a strong police presence.
However our concern turned to amusement when the cars started to number in the double digits. At one point I counted 17 police cars. The whole situation was so absurd I had to take a picture. I couldn't get all of the cars in the frame, but what I did get was pretty impressive.
As to why they were there, the police department had scheduled some sort of drill at the high school. We got to see all the cops file into the building and come out a short while later.
But I like to think it was a show of force to help keep the marching and in line.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Irene Goodnight
Hi there!
After 3 days and 6 hours without electricity, I'm back with two very clean fridges and a whole lot of twigs and branches across the yard.
We got off very lightly. We only lost two and a half trees on our property (the half is a leaner we need to have cut down). One missed the shed by about ten feet and the other is parallel to the tree that was felled by Isabel in 2003, both missed the playsets in our backyard.
As for food, I'm very fortunate to have a good friend like Meryl. She never lost power and happily opened her fridge and kitchen to us. So the only things I tossed are the odd item that turns up when you empty out a fridge (that sour cream is how old?).
Add on top to this this, my mother flew in for a quick visit.
So needless to say I've been a wee bit busy and Artist of the Week has to wait until next week.
After 3 days and 6 hours without electricity, I'm back with two very clean fridges and a whole lot of twigs and branches across the yard.
We got off very lightly. We only lost two and a half trees on our property (the half is a leaner we need to have cut down). One missed the shed by about ten feet and the other is parallel to the tree that was felled by Isabel in 2003, both missed the playsets in our backyard.
As for food, I'm very fortunate to have a good friend like Meryl. She never lost power and happily opened her fridge and kitchen to us. So the only things I tossed are the odd item that turns up when you empty out a fridge (that sour cream is how old?).
Add on top to this this, my mother flew in for a quick visit.
So needless to say I've been a wee bit busy and Artist of the Week has to wait until next week.
Sunday, August 28, 2011
And Murders Of Crows
I found this short to be simply beautiful. I like the style of animation. It brings to mind watercolor, pen & ink, and oddly enough sand painting.
Friday, August 26, 2011
MCP Project 52: Connections
Marching band camp is all about making connections. You need to connect with your band mates, the music, and of course the drill patterns.
I life has been pretty much dedicated to band camp this week. I volunteered to help with handing out lunches (during the second full week the band boosters offer a different lunch each day for the kids to purchase), sit outside and keep an eye out for heat exhaustion, and help fit kids in the uniforms. As a result I've barely been home.
But all the hard work and time spent is well worth it when I see my boy making all the right connections.
I life has been pretty much dedicated to band camp this week. I volunteered to help with handing out lunches (during the second full week the band boosters offer a different lunch each day for the kids to purchase), sit outside and keep an eye out for heat exhaustion, and help fit kids in the uniforms. As a result I've barely been home.
But all the hard work and time spent is well worth it when I see my boy making all the right connections.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Hoping For Blue Skies
But preparing for the worst.
Irene shouldn't be too bad, mostly just rain. However it has been a good excuse to police the yard and put away things into our vast crawl space. Crawl space is such a misnomer for the area beneath our house. There are large areas where you can be almost upright. Anyway this means our canoe and deck furniture have a safe place to be stored during big weather.
Hopefully most of the hysteria surrounding Irene will be unfounded and just the result of the little 5.8 excitement from earlier this week.
Irene shouldn't be too bad, mostly just rain. However it has been a good excuse to police the yard and put away things into our vast crawl space. Crawl space is such a misnomer for the area beneath our house. There are large areas where you can be almost upright. Anyway this means our canoe and deck furniture have a safe place to be stored during big weather.
Hopefully most of the hysteria surrounding Irene will be unfounded and just the result of the little 5.8 excitement from earlier this week.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Artist of the week: Swingin'
This week's artist is Nate.
The picture I have of him here is cropped from a larger picture that I took during vacation. It is part of the Bear Creek Lake State Park set and is one of my favorites. It was our first morning and the kids were eager to go fishing. Nate had brought his best friend along for our trip and the two of them were down by the lake's edge with their poles. I had tagged along with my camera in case anything caught my fancy and I was so glad that I did.
The morning light and the reflection of the blue sky on the lake's waters produced a stunning photograph. For me at least, the key to good photography is to have your camera in hand and to keep your eyes open.
Anyhoodle, enough about the picture.
Last week Nate was messing around with the Legos and designed a single rider swing. It worked fairly well, but it was not particularly elegant. After a bit of reworking he decided to make something more along the lines of a porch or bench swing.
This proved to be a far superior design.
As you can see in the picture it comfortably holds to Lego men. The bench swings freely ( that's Nate's hand in the picture) and is far less inclined to break down as opposed to the single seat model.
Once again my children have created something on their own from our large supply of Legos. I remember them as a good creative toy and it's nice to see they still are today.
The picture I have of him here is cropped from a larger picture that I took during vacation. It is part of the Bear Creek Lake State Park set and is one of my favorites. It was our first morning and the kids were eager to go fishing. Nate had brought his best friend along for our trip and the two of them were down by the lake's edge with their poles. I had tagged along with my camera in case anything caught my fancy and I was so glad that I did.
The morning light and the reflection of the blue sky on the lake's waters produced a stunning photograph. For me at least, the key to good photography is to have your camera in hand and to keep your eyes open.
Anyhoodle, enough about the picture.
Last week Nate was messing around with the Legos and designed a single rider swing. It worked fairly well, but it was not particularly elegant. After a bit of reworking he decided to make something more along the lines of a porch or bench swing.
This proved to be a far superior design.
As you can see in the picture it comfortably holds to Lego men. The bench swings freely ( that's Nate's hand in the picture) and is far less inclined to break down as opposed to the single seat model.
Once again my children have created something on their own from our large supply of Legos. I remember them as a good creative toy and it's nice to see they still are today.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Whole Lotta Shakin' Going On
As I think the whole world knows by now, Virginia had a bit of an earthquake today. It rang up and down the Atlantic seaboard and across the continent.
I was standing in an open garage digging out a late lunch from the outside fridge after just returning home from dishing out lunch to marching band and running errands (it was a busy mid-day). With the first rumble I glanced at the hot water heater then as it continued I started to wonder what on earth my children were up to.
Then I realized I was in the middle of a real live earthquake.
I strolled out of the garage, more amused than scared. It felt and sounded like I was on top of and out of balance washing machine. It was very odd seeing the ground vibrate. I shouted to the guys across the street working on my neighbor's house and they thought it was wild. It seemed to last well over a minute. Nate, meanwhile had ushered his siblings outside along with the dogs. The whole experience was very surreal. Rebecca was upset, but calmed down a bit when I pointed out the dogs were clearly unperturbed. Their only reaction was "Cool everybody is outside!"
The only bad part was I had a devil of a time getting a hold of Larry. Cell phones were swamped and the land line was a bit locked up. I was able to reassure various friends and parents that I and the children were fine. Half an hour or so Larry was let back into his building and was able to give me a call. I wasn't too worried about him, his office is in a solid building that also houses the Governor's offices, however it was a relief to hear his voice.
As for the aftershocks, I haven't felt a single one.
Oh and my dogs are not at all earthquake sensitive, once back inside they conked out and slept the rest of the day.
I was standing in an open garage digging out a late lunch from the outside fridge after just returning home from dishing out lunch to marching band and running errands (it was a busy mid-day). With the first rumble I glanced at the hot water heater then as it continued I started to wonder what on earth my children were up to.
Then I realized I was in the middle of a real live earthquake.
I strolled out of the garage, more amused than scared. It felt and sounded like I was on top of and out of balance washing machine. It was very odd seeing the ground vibrate. I shouted to the guys across the street working on my neighbor's house and they thought it was wild. It seemed to last well over a minute. Nate, meanwhile had ushered his siblings outside along with the dogs. The whole experience was very surreal. Rebecca was upset, but calmed down a bit when I pointed out the dogs were clearly unperturbed. Their only reaction was "Cool everybody is outside!"
The only bad part was I had a devil of a time getting a hold of Larry. Cell phones were swamped and the land line was a bit locked up. I was able to reassure various friends and parents that I and the children were fine. Half an hour or so Larry was let back into his building and was able to give me a call. I wasn't too worried about him, his office is in a solid building that also houses the Governor's offices, however it was a relief to hear his voice.
As for the aftershocks, I haven't felt a single one.
Oh and my dogs are not at all earthquake sensitive, once back inside they conked out and slept the rest of the day.
Monday, August 22, 2011
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Deliciously Honored
Max got to pick were we went out tonight in honor of his stellar report card of straight As for the last quarter. He selected Weezie's Kitchen, a big favorite with the family.
We scored a parking spot right out front and as we we went inside Max and Nate trooped right to the table we usually get seated at. The young woman showing us to the table was amused and said they wee spot on, since that was the biggest table and it was where she was planning to seat us.
As always it was a delicious meal with huge portions. I opted for the scallop appetizer as my entry and for once the portion was just right. I'm going to have to remember that trick.
Now all we have left is Nate and Rebecca to celebrate for their academic achievements. I'm not quite sure if we are going to do what Rebecca wants. She's angling for something not quite dinner, instead she wants a trip to "For the Love of Chocolate."
We scored a parking spot right out front and as we we went inside Max and Nate trooped right to the table we usually get seated at. The young woman showing us to the table was amused and said they wee spot on, since that was the biggest table and it was where she was planning to seat us.
As always it was a delicious meal with huge portions. I opted for the scallop appetizer as my entry and for once the portion was just right. I'm going to have to remember that trick.
Now all we have left is Nate and Rebecca to celebrate for their academic achievements. I'm not quite sure if we are going to do what Rebecca wants. She's angling for something not quite dinner, instead she wants a trip to "For the Love of Chocolate."
Friday, August 19, 2011
MCP Project 52: Slow Down, Look Back
This week's theme was "Slow Down, Look Back" and decide to get all literal on it.
I immediately envisioned Max walking along, dragging a stick, and looking over his shoulder. He would be the perfect subject since his normal speed is a rather maddening slow amble. And the stick, to me the image of a child walking along and dragging a stick makes me think of slow summer days.
I ended up following Max down the driveway and up the road a piece. He was very patient with me as I trailed behind him taking pictures. This shot was the second frame and I am very pleased with it. The lighting was just right, Max hasn't yet disappeared into the shadows and the driveway is glistening from a recent rain.
All in all it was a fun theme to work with.
I immediately envisioned Max walking along, dragging a stick, and looking over his shoulder. He would be the perfect subject since his normal speed is a rather maddening slow amble. And the stick, to me the image of a child walking along and dragging a stick makes me think of slow summer days.
I ended up following Max down the driveway and up the road a piece. He was very patient with me as I trailed behind him taking pictures. This shot was the second frame and I am very pleased with it. The lighting was just right, Max hasn't yet disappeared into the shadows and the driveway is glistening from a recent rain.
All in all it was a fun theme to work with.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Beauty in the Simple Things.
It's easy not to see beauty in the ordinary. You might see it, but never recognize what it is.
Like this explosion of macaroni.
Nate loves Easy Mac and I have seen countless bowls fresh from the microwave. A part of me would see the mounded form the noodles had taken while being cooked, but that would be it.
Finally last week I gave into the small bit of wonder the pasta inspired and took a picture. It is not the most amazing picture nor is it the most exciting of subjects, but... I just enjoy the simple beauty it does have.
Like this explosion of macaroni.
Nate loves Easy Mac and I have seen countless bowls fresh from the microwave. A part of me would see the mounded form the noodles had taken while being cooked, but that would be it.
Finally last week I gave into the small bit of wonder the pasta inspired and took a picture. It is not the most amazing picture nor is it the most exciting of subjects, but... I just enjoy the simple beauty it does have.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Artist of the week: Ninja!
This week it's my turn to be the Artist of the week.
I was asked the other day if I was an arts and crafts sort of person. I wasn't quite sure how to answer. I do like to build and create things. I have created and updated two club logos, designed Jake's Bar Mitzvah invites from scratch, I love to bake and decorate cakes, and I take endless pictures.
But actual crafts are not really my cuppa. So artsy yes, but crafty is a big no.
That said, I will do a craft if the mood strikes and there seems to be a need.
Which brings me to the Ninja part.
Jake has marching band camp going on this week and the next. To foster band spirit a theme is announce for each day. On Monday one of the drum majors announced that Tuesday was Ninja day. The only restriction was that the students could not wear black, the kids spends hours outside under the hot sun practicing in the parking lot. Being dressed head to toe in black would be a very bad idea.
So what to do?
Jake and I agreed a headband featuring the rising sun would be a good idea. I could whip one up on my sewing machine with some heavy white cotton fabric I had left over from a previous project. While googling away for design ideas I found a restaurant supplier's site that featured chef headbands that purportedly had "ninja" written on them in Kanji symbols. I found a Kanji website and verified the veracity of the symbols and decided to give it a try.
I think the headband turned out rather well. I wish I had some better markers for the job, but I wasn't willing to go out and buy yet another set. For an ad hock creation that took maybe 1/2 hour to put together, I'm very pleased (as was Jake) with the final result.
I was asked the other day if I was an arts and crafts sort of person. I wasn't quite sure how to answer. I do like to build and create things. I have created and updated two club logos, designed Jake's Bar Mitzvah invites from scratch, I love to bake and decorate cakes, and I take endless pictures.
But actual crafts are not really my cuppa. So artsy yes, but crafty is a big no.
That said, I will do a craft if the mood strikes and there seems to be a need.
Which brings me to the Ninja part.
Jake has marching band camp going on this week and the next. To foster band spirit a theme is announce for each day. On Monday one of the drum majors announced that Tuesday was Ninja day. The only restriction was that the students could not wear black, the kids spends hours outside under the hot sun practicing in the parking lot. Being dressed head to toe in black would be a very bad idea.
So what to do?
Jake and I agreed a headband featuring the rising sun would be a good idea. I could whip one up on my sewing machine with some heavy white cotton fabric I had left over from a previous project. While googling away for design ideas I found a restaurant supplier's site that featured chef headbands that purportedly had "ninja" written on them in Kanji symbols. I found a Kanji website and verified the veracity of the symbols and decided to give it a try.
I think the headband turned out rather well. I wish I had some better markers for the job, but I wasn't willing to go out and buy yet another set. For an ad hock creation that took maybe 1/2 hour to put together, I'm very pleased (as was Jake) with the final result.
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Where I Was Last Week
Normally we do just one big trip in the summer and that had happened last month.
But this year we decided to mix it up a bit.
Since our trip up north was on the short side due to various commitments and we had such a good time this past spring at Shenandoah River State Park we thought we would give another state park a try. We looked up various parks in the state and settled on Bear Creek Lake. We could swim, fish and canoe! And as an added bonus, the park is about an hour out of Richmond.
Which turned out to be a very good thing since on T
hursday I had to drive Jake back for an evening marching band rehearsal.
The cabin was pretty much the same as the one we stayed in last spring, right on down to the wilderness themed upholstery on the furniture. Larry had the brilliant idea that since there was no dishwasher, everyone should wash their own plates, glasses, and silverware. That certainly made my life easier!
As for the park, the lake was a bit smaller than we envisioned. However, that didn't stop us from using the canoe on a daily basis. Nate brought his best friend along and the older boys would frequently take the canoe out and try to do a bit of fishing. They lost quite a few lures, but after switching to live bait Nate was able to snag a crappie.
Max and Rebecca didn't do much in the way of fishing. Instead they had fun at the small swimming area/ beach on the other side of the lake. Rebecca even joined me in swimming across the lake. Actually it was more kick-boarding since she is not a strong swimmer. That little adventure was a great deal of fun even though we got admonished by a park employee for 1.) swimming outside of the swimming area and 2.) swimming when the lifeguard was no longer present. We survived and were allowed to return to our side of the lake.
We all had a great time and look forward to our next state park adventure. If you click on the picture of Rebecca silhouetted by the morning light it will lead you to my Flickr account where there is a whole slew of picture in the Bear Creek Lake photo set.
But this year we decided to mix it up a bit.
Since our trip up north was on the short side due to various commitments and we had such a good time this past spring at Shenandoah River State Park we thought we would give another state park a try. We looked up various parks in the state and settled on Bear Creek Lake. We could swim, fish and canoe! And as an added bonus, the park is about an hour out of Richmond.
Which turned out to be a very good thing since on T
hursday I had to drive Jake back for an evening marching band rehearsal.
The cabin was pretty much the same as the one we stayed in last spring, right on down to the wilderness themed upholstery on the furniture. Larry had the brilliant idea that since there was no dishwasher, everyone should wash their own plates, glasses, and silverware. That certainly made my life easier!
As for the park, the lake was a bit smaller than we envisioned. However, that didn't stop us from using the canoe on a daily basis. Nate brought his best friend along and the older boys would frequently take the canoe out and try to do a bit of fishing. They lost quite a few lures, but after switching to live bait Nate was able to snag a crappie.
Max and Rebecca didn't do much in the way of fishing. Instead they had fun at the small swimming area/ beach on the other side of the lake. Rebecca even joined me in swimming across the lake. Actually it was more kick-boarding since she is not a strong swimmer. That little adventure was a great deal of fun even though we got admonished by a park employee for 1.) swimming outside of the swimming area and 2.) swimming when the lifeguard was no longer present. We survived and were allowed to return to our side of the lake.
We all had a great time and look forward to our next state park adventure. If you click on the picture of Rebecca silhouetted by the morning light it will lead you to my Flickr account where there is a whole slew of picture in the Bear Creek Lake photo set.
Monday, August 15, 2011
Call of the Wild Museum
Woot! has a new, at least to me, feature called 'Travels With Woot.' It's a little travelogue that, in this case, focuses on the road side attraction Call Of The Wild museum of North American wildlife. It is delightfully kitschy little place located in Gaylord, Michigan. The narration is great with just enough snark to be fun.
If we were still in the Midwest I think we would make a point to visit.
If we were still in the Midwest I think we would make a point to visit.
Sunday, August 14, 2011
MCP Project 52: Favorite Time of Day
Hey! I'm back with a slightly tardy picture of the week.
Last week I had to work fairly quickly if I was going to submit my weekly photo on time. We left on Sunday so I really only had a day to figure out the theme and take a picture.
I decided that my favorite time of day is when I can steal away and read a book. I was pretty happy with how my picture in the hammock came out. A little cropping and a bit of boost to the colors and I was done. I took the picture and posted it right before we left last Sunday morning. I had almost no internet connectivity while we were gone, just a quick stop at a library on Tuesday and a bit longer at home on Thursday when Jake had a band thing going on that night.
So I was quite surprised and very pleased to see my picture made the top ten!
I guess working fast is the way to go.
Last week I had to work fairly quickly if I was going to submit my weekly photo on time. We left on Sunday so I really only had a day to figure out the theme and take a picture.
I decided that my favorite time of day is when I can steal away and read a book. I was pretty happy with how my picture in the hammock came out. A little cropping and a bit of boost to the colors and I was done. I took the picture and posted it right before we left last Sunday morning. I had almost no internet connectivity while we were gone, just a quick stop at a library on Tuesday and a bit longer at home on Thursday when Jake had a band thing going on that night.
So I was quite surprised and very pleased to see my picture made the top ten!
I guess working fast is the way to go.
Friday, August 05, 2011
MCP Project 52: Sky
This week's theme was a big one, as big as the whole sky.
So of course we had boring weather and I was stuck shuttling people around to their respective sports camps (soccer for Jacob, lacrosse for Nate).
I really wanted to photograph our subdivision's pond with the sky reflected in the water, but either the sky was unexciting or the water wasn't still enough. However I did have the good sense to keep my camera in the car. I would keep peering at the sky hoping for something to click.
I ended up taking a fair amount of pictures of sunsets. Jacob's soccer camp ended at 8:30 pm, prime time for pretty skies. There were a few shots that I could have digitally manipulated to be a bit more vivid, but that always feels like cheating. I generally only tweak enough to get the image true to the original. And that is why I chose this picture.
It is not the most technicolor of sunsets, if fact it's a bit blah. The picture is saved by the cloud, or rather the sky dragon. At the time I hadn't even noticed the shape of the cloud. Not until I had downloaded my pictures that the shape caught my attention. It is a lovely dragon making its way across the sky, the head picked out by the rays of the setting sun and the body trails behind. I don't know how I missed it at the time. It almost makes up for the missed heat lighting from earlier in the week.
So of course we had boring weather and I was stuck shuttling people around to their respective sports camps (soccer for Jacob, lacrosse for Nate).
I really wanted to photograph our subdivision's pond with the sky reflected in the water, but either the sky was unexciting or the water wasn't still enough. However I did have the good sense to keep my camera in the car. I would keep peering at the sky hoping for something to click.
I ended up taking a fair amount of pictures of sunsets. Jacob's soccer camp ended at 8:30 pm, prime time for pretty skies. There were a few shots that I could have digitally manipulated to be a bit more vivid, but that always feels like cheating. I generally only tweak enough to get the image true to the original. And that is why I chose this picture.
It is not the most technicolor of sunsets, if fact it's a bit blah. The picture is saved by the cloud, or rather the sky dragon. At the time I hadn't even noticed the shape of the cloud. Not until I had downloaded my pictures that the shape caught my attention. It is a lovely dragon making its way across the sky, the head picked out by the rays of the setting sun and the body trails behind. I don't know how I missed it at the time. It almost makes up for the missed heat lighting from earlier in the week.
Thursday, August 04, 2011
My Drummer Boy
We had a really neat opportunity today at our local library. A member of Tampa Taiko was in our area and would be at our local library. I signed up both Max and me and we skedaddled on over after lunch.
It was a fun program sponsored by the Friends of the Library. We learned a bit about taiko, Japanese drums, from how the drums are made, what they are called,and the notes you play on them. The best part was at the end when groups of seven were brought up and invited to play the drums. Max had a good time and even the big kids (grownups like me) got to join in the fun. Everybody was encouraged to give it a try and even dance.
It was wonderful, I hope they get invited to come again and I'll bring the rest of my crew.
It was a fun program sponsored by the Friends of the Library. We learned a bit about taiko, Japanese drums, from how the drums are made, what they are called,and the notes you play on them. The best part was at the end when groups of seven were brought up and invited to play the drums. Max had a good time and even the big kids (grownups like me) got to join in the fun. Everybody was encouraged to give it a try and even dance.
It was wonderful, I hope they get invited to come again and I'll bring the rest of my crew.
Wednesday, August 03, 2011
Artist of the week: LEGO Fighter
Max, the melonater, is this week's featured artist.
He looks so very serious while eating his watermelon slice. Which is understandable since it was a seriously good watermelon. It was also the same melon that resulted in some far less serious pictures of Max. And yes that means this was taken half a month ago, so sue me. It's been quiet around here and I'm getting my mileage out of the times I do shoot pictures.
Anyhoodle I like the picture and the all its bright colors. There is just something appealing about the green grass, blue tiedyed shirt with the bright pinkish red slice of the watermelon. It all looks cool and inviting even though the actual temperature was about 90.
But enough about the watermelon, this is supposed to be about our old friend LEGO.
Max and his siblings have been building all sorts of fantastical machines. Most of the instructions detailing how to build the various kits have been mangled beyond repair or just plain missing. Fortunately after the initial build (while the instructions were still legible and on hand) the kids have been more than happy to create their own vehicles.
If I remember correctly this was some kind of boat. Max was very proud of what he made and requested I take pictures. He has learned that no LEGO vehicle in our active household lasts for any length of time. If you like it, you need to take pictures.
I think he did a great job. It is a solid little vehicle with plenty of firepower to take on whatever Max's imagination throws at it.
He looks so very serious while eating his watermelon slice. Which is understandable since it was a seriously good watermelon. It was also the same melon that resulted in some far less serious pictures of Max. And yes that means this was taken half a month ago, so sue me. It's been quiet around here and I'm getting my mileage out of the times I do shoot pictures.
Anyhoodle I like the picture and the all its bright colors. There is just something appealing about the green grass, blue tiedyed shirt with the bright pinkish red slice of the watermelon. It all looks cool and inviting even though the actual temperature was about 90.
But enough about the watermelon, this is supposed to be about our old friend LEGO.
Max and his siblings have been building all sorts of fantastical machines. Most of the instructions detailing how to build the various kits have been mangled beyond repair or just plain missing. Fortunately after the initial build (while the instructions were still legible and on hand) the kids have been more than happy to create their own vehicles.
If I remember correctly this was some kind of boat. Max was very proud of what he made and requested I take pictures. He has learned that no LEGO vehicle in our active household lasts for any length of time. If you like it, you need to take pictures.
I think he did a great job. It is a solid little vehicle with plenty of firepower to take on whatever Max's imagination throws at it.
Tuesday, August 02, 2011
Beetling Along
Not much is going on right now. It's summer and I'm enjoying not waking up before the crack of dawn and the pared down schedule.
That being said I'm still busy. Nate and Jake have sports camps this week, soccer for Jake and lacrosse for Nate. Max and Rebecca have finished their swimming lessons and are much more confident in the water. And looming over all is the start of the school year next month.
So I'm just beetling along like this little guy I found in our backyard.
That being said I'm still busy. Nate and Jake have sports camps this week, soccer for Jake and lacrosse for Nate. Max and Rebecca have finished their swimming lessons and are much more confident in the water. And looming over all is the start of the school year next month.
So I'm just beetling along like this little guy I found in our backyard.
Monday, August 01, 2011
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Basil
I love basil. It smells wonderful, adds so much flavor, is dead easy to grow, and has the prettiest little white flowers.
For the past couple of years I've let my plants go to seed in the fall and have enjoyed them coming back the following spring. This year, however, I decided I needed to buy new plants. My big pot was horribly overdue to have its soil replenished and I seriously doubted that the seeds would be able to sprout and find daylight after a massive reworking of the soil.
And I was right. At least at first.
Spring came and there were no seedlings. I waited for well after the last frost before putting in my new plants. They have thrived this summer despite the high temperatures and erratic watering.
And then lo and behold two little seedlings appeared a few weeks ago. I'm glad I got the new plants, but I'm tickled that the offspring of the old plants are present as well.
For the past couple of years I've let my plants go to seed in the fall and have enjoyed them coming back the following spring. This year, however, I decided I needed to buy new plants. My big pot was horribly overdue to have its soil replenished and I seriously doubted that the seeds would be able to sprout and find daylight after a massive reworking of the soil.
And I was right. At least at first.
Spring came and there were no seedlings. I waited for well after the last frost before putting in my new plants. They have thrived this summer despite the high temperatures and erratic watering.
And then lo and behold two little seedlings appeared a few weeks ago. I'm glad I got the new plants, but I'm tickled that the offspring of the old plants are present as well.
Friday, July 29, 2011
MCP Project 52: A Letter of the Alphabet
This weeks theme was "A Letter of the Alphabet."
I t had me stumped for quite some time. I considered taking pictures of signs around the area and cobbling together a collage of a particular letter (C came to mind). However the idea never really grabbed me. So I thought some more when I suddenly got a thunderbolt. I could do something with a report card.
It would be unique since school had ended weeks and weeks ago, I had three to chose from that had straight As, and I could make a nice still life with the excess school supplies floating around the house.
I'm pretty happy with the final result. I picked the best looking report card of the bunch to maximize the amount of As featured. And hey it's a nice way to brag on my children.
I t had me stumped for quite some time. I considered taking pictures of signs around the area and cobbling together a collage of a particular letter (C came to mind). However the idea never really grabbed me. So I thought some more when I suddenly got a thunderbolt. I could do something with a report card.
It would be unique since school had ended weeks and weeks ago, I had three to chose from that had straight As, and I could make a nice still life with the excess school supplies floating around the house.
I'm pretty happy with the final result. I picked the best looking report card of the bunch to maximize the amount of As featured. And hey it's a nice way to brag on my children.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Monkey on His Back
Nate has a green monkey that lately we have been throwing at each other. I don't remember how he acquired it, but it has been left downstairs for the past week. So far the dogs haven't touched it, that said the monkey's days are probably numbered.
Anyhoo we were discussing how it was cruel to dress up animals in absurd offits. Nate pointed out that I was always putting on hats on John and replied that John didn't seem to mind and I never forced the issue. Once he pawed it off it was over. Nate was then seized with the idea of putting the monkey on John's back.
He patiently sat there while Nate straddled the monkey on his back and stuffed it's front legs in his collar. He sat for a while and even posed for the camera. Then John wandered off with the monkey on his back, not particularly concerned about his passenger.
Poor John, he is such a good sport. I think Dell would lasted maybe five seconds.
Anyhoo we were discussing how it was cruel to dress up animals in absurd offits. Nate pointed out that I was always putting on hats on John and replied that John didn't seem to mind and I never forced the issue. Once he pawed it off it was over. Nate was then seized with the idea of putting the monkey on John's back.
He patiently sat there while Nate straddled the monkey on his back and stuffed it's front legs in his collar. He sat for a while and even posed for the camera. Then John wandered off with the monkey on his back, not particularly concerned about his passenger.
Poor John, he is such a good sport. I think Dell would lasted maybe five seconds.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Artist of the Week: Little Signs of Love
Rebecca is this week's artist.
We had some delicious watermelon a while back and Rebecca was very happy to nosh on some out on our deck. The kids prefer slices, but that means they pretty much have to eat outdoors or over the sink. *Maybe* I'll let them sit at the table with a plate. I love the stuff, but a really good watermelon is such a sticky and messy treat. So that's why Rebecca has such a big smile, so got her slice and was able to snag a seat on the deck.
Anyhoodle, Rebecca loves food and loves to cook. She is my own personal sous chef. She'll chop vegetables, stir pots, and add ingredients. She'll even dig out spices from my very messy spice cabinet.
Rebecca also appreciates the artistic side of cooking and understands the value of making a dish look as good as it tastes.
So when I found this lovely little tableau on the counter I didn't need the note to tell me who made it.
The sungold tomatoes with the cheesy smile and the shot glass of flowers made my day. My little girl knows me all too well. I love the taste combination and the the bit of whimsy that was added by making the face.
Her brothers can and do such silly things with food, but not with the high style that is added with the flowers. Rebecca was very pleased that I noticed her effort and took pictures. She has discovered the joy of doing little things that show the people you love how much you care.
Thank you sweetheart!
We had some delicious watermelon a while back and Rebecca was very happy to nosh on some out on our deck. The kids prefer slices, but that means they pretty much have to eat outdoors or over the sink. *Maybe* I'll let them sit at the table with a plate. I love the stuff, but a really good watermelon is such a sticky and messy treat. So that's why Rebecca has such a big smile, so got her slice and was able to snag a seat on the deck.
Anyhoodle, Rebecca loves food and loves to cook. She is my own personal sous chef. She'll chop vegetables, stir pots, and add ingredients. She'll even dig out spices from my very messy spice cabinet.
Rebecca also appreciates the artistic side of cooking and understands the value of making a dish look as good as it tastes.
So when I found this lovely little tableau on the counter I didn't need the note to tell me who made it.
The sungold tomatoes with the cheesy smile and the shot glass of flowers made my day. My little girl knows me all too well. I love the taste combination and the the bit of whimsy that was added by making the face.
Her brothers can and do such silly things with food, but not with the high style that is added with the flowers. Rebecca was very pleased that I noticed her effort and took pictures. She has discovered the joy of doing little things that show the people you love how much you care.
Thank you sweetheart!
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Beef Festival!
This past weekend was the 32nd annual Amelia Beef Festival. We don't go every year, it is rather pricey, but when we do we always have a good time.
I realized accidentally that last Saturday was the day when I was watching a local morning show last week. I don't normally watch, but our friends The Velvet Marias were the featured musical guest. As I waited for their segment to come up I impatiently watched various local bits that did not interest me, until the organizers to The Amelia Beef Fest appeared to promote their event. I thought it was come and gone and was delighted to see I was wrong.
Larry was out of town with Jake and I was trying to come up with a fun activity for the rest us and this filled the bill. One quick phone call to Meryl to see if she was in and we were all set, all I had to do was get the tickets before Saturday. The event is advance sales only and I did not want to miss out. I was really looking forward to the all you can eat ribs, BBQ, steamship round, and roasted corn.
Friday afternoon I got the tickets with only a slight bit of drama. After I left the bank (yes, really I got the tickets at a bank) I decided to double check how many tickets I got. As I sat in my car I discovered I had 6, not 5 tickets. After a few more errands I swung by the bank to drop off the extra ticket. They thanked me for my honesty and I thought nothing of it.
That is until the next day when I got a call from the bank to confirm that I had the right number of tickets. I did and even counted them again when I was on the phone.
As for the festival, we had a great time.
It rained, which it always seems to do, but we came prepared. I have a sun tent that keeps off most of the rain (it gets drippy underneath during downpours) and Rebecca looks very pleased that we brought our shelter. Nate got a bit bored until he started playing football with some passing boys. And Max, well he loved the roasted corn. We set up near the corn shed and I don't know how many times the boy ducked over for another ear. I enjoyed all of the beef and I too ate a boatload of the sweet, sweet roasted corn.
I realized accidentally that last Saturday was the day when I was watching a local morning show last week. I don't normally watch, but our friends The Velvet Marias were the featured musical guest. As I waited for their segment to come up I impatiently watched various local bits that did not interest me, until the organizers to The Amelia Beef Fest appeared to promote their event. I thought it was come and gone and was delighted to see I was wrong.
Larry was out of town with Jake and I was trying to come up with a fun activity for the rest us and this filled the bill. One quick phone call to Meryl to see if she was in and we were all set, all I had to do was get the tickets before Saturday. The event is advance sales only and I did not want to miss out. I was really looking forward to the all you can eat ribs, BBQ, steamship round, and roasted corn.
Friday afternoon I got the tickets with only a slight bit of drama. After I left the bank (yes, really I got the tickets at a bank) I decided to double check how many tickets I got. As I sat in my car I discovered I had 6, not 5 tickets. After a few more errands I swung by the bank to drop off the extra ticket. They thanked me for my honesty and I thought nothing of it.
That is until the next day when I got a call from the bank to confirm that I had the right number of tickets. I did and even counted them again when I was on the phone.
As for the festival, we had a great time.
It rained, which it always seems to do, but we came prepared. I have a sun tent that keeps off most of the rain (it gets drippy underneath during downpours) and Rebecca looks very pleased that we brought our shelter. Nate got a bit bored until he started playing football with some passing boys. And Max, well he loved the roasted corn. We set up near the corn shed and I don't know how many times the boy ducked over for another ear. I enjoyed all of the beef and I too ate a boatload of the sweet, sweet roasted corn.
Monday, July 25, 2011
Boogie Boogie Hedgehog - Parry Gripp
I first saw this in the sidebar over at Fetch My Flying Monkeys (warning- lots of foul language, but very funny) a few days ago and I still think it's hilarious. Even the kids think it is wonderful. In fact if I start singing "boogie, boogie hedgehog" they will join in.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Green Globe
This is in reality an outstanding illusion.
Created by French artist François Abélanet, it is installed in front of Paris's city hall. I love the title "Qui Croire?", or in English "Who to Believe?"
An article with far more information and an outstanding gallery of the installation can be found over at Inhabitat- Green Design Will Save the World.
I think it is amazing and it completely blew my son, Nate, away. He had a very hard time wrapping his mind around the whole illusion.
Created by French artist François Abélanet, it is installed in front of Paris's city hall. I love the title "Qui Croire?", or in English "Who to Believe?"
An article with far more information and an outstanding gallery of the installation can be found over at Inhabitat- Green Design Will Save the World.
I think it is amazing and it completely blew my son, Nate, away. He had a very hard time wrapping his mind around the whole illusion.
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