Mother May I

New Digs

2009-03-24T09:45:00.000-07:00

Please follow me over at my NEW blog home
traceyclark.com
Much thanks!

Saying Goodnight (and Good Morning)

2009-02-08T12:48:00.000-08:00

It is time to put this blogger site to rest.

I am not putting blogging to rest- no way, no how - I am just picking up where I left off here on a new platform.

I will admit that although I have been planning on making the switch over to Square Space for some time now, finally doing it has got me kind of sentimental. It's been quite a ride over here since I began 3 years ago (sniff sniff) but I have managed to get all my archives over to my new blog and even though there are some things I am still working on over there (a disclaimer to any broken links and whatnot) today I am putting this blog to rest.

Join me over at the new Mother May I as I begin again, all bright eyed and bushy tailed at traceyclark.com. Can't wait to see you there.

Easing Into February

2009-02-01T21:33:00.000-08:00

I am holding myself accountable as February begins to stay focused on ease. Even when things are hectic, life rushing all around, I can still try to keep to my head and my heart in an easy place.

It's a challenge but I'm up for it.

And how about you? What have you been focusing on this week?

Ease

2009-01-31T17:18:00.000-08:00

Although my day to day life can feel far from easy I am claiming the word "ease" as my word for the new One Word Project at Shutter Sisters. In attempts to bring more ease into my life it's my word for 2009. And the above photo is my first attempt at capturing my word in a photo.

Today is the big kick off for the first month of the project so I hope you pop over and read Sarah Ji's take on it. For February you can pick your own word to translate. All the details are on the site as well as a new daily click to check out. A One Word participant will be featured each day. Inspirational stuff for sure.

And, did you hear that Lensbaby is the sponsor? Yep! One lucky reader over there can expect a new Baby at the end of the month. Believe me when I tell you the Composer is quite a welcome addition to my household. I shot the above photo with it (and it's cool optic swap system). So fun!

So...may I ask, what's your word?

She and I

2009-01-26T10:02:00.001-08:00

My daughter (shot on left) and I (shot on right) were at it again. Shooting together for another duet.

How about you? Did you make heads or tails of anything this week? Do share your Best Shot today no matter what end was up.

Clicking Away

2009-01-24T07:57:00.000-08:00

So far so good on my 365 Project. The tip that has saved me is shooting at least one shot in the morning. Clicking a few pix every morning is becoming part of my daily routine right there with my coffee and making breakfast for the kids. I cannot tell you how much I am enjoying it.

How about you? Are you keeping up with the creative in your life?

Shutter Sisters Turns One!

2009-01-22T11:53:00.000-08:00

It's our very first bloggy birthday at Shutter Sisters today. I am such a proud mama. And it happened to fall on the day I wrote my 101st post over there. How cool is that?

Pop over and offer your birthday wishes and be entered int he drawing for a new HP Printer! Woot!

Let's party!

Before and After

2009-01-20T19:54:00.000-08:00

Note to self:
When one is drunk with hope and intoxicated by change one should steer clear of razors.

All I can figure is that my impulse today was kind of like when you break up with your boyfriend and you immediately go get your hair chopped off. Get rid of a president, get a new do? I dunno.

44

2009-01-20T10:54:00.001-08:00

Awaking with the assurance that that today would be both historic and glorious, I stumbled down stairs, children still sleeping, and was greeted by this sight. The rising sun, circled by halo of hope; a symbol of what this day and our future holds.

Join us as we blog this moment in time. 1 photo, 44 words. History in the making.

Thank you Melissa and Alice.

Ruff

2009-01-18T18:14:00.000-08:00

Ever since the holiday season there has been a common theme around our home. Namely of the canine persuasion.

First the decision a furry friend. Immediately followed by the trail and error period which led to the contemplation that perhaps we're more cat people than dog people. I even sat in on a panel with the people behind the upcoming show on PBS called "Why We Love Cats and Dogs" where I actually asked for their help in the matter. They were very gracious. By the way, I cannot wait to see that show! A day or two later coincidentally began the dog sitting days. Believe me when I tell you if nothing else, dogs give you one more perfect subject for a 365 project. Then, today we topped it all off with an afternoon at the movies seeing Hotel for Dogs. Things are getting ridiculous, I know. By the way, it's a darling movie!

After all of this, we still don't have our family pet question answered (except of course that we know fish are cool) and and truth be told I'm OK with it not being decided just now. We're just going to sit with it. It's always fun when the puns come easy.

So, why the long drawn-out story then? No reason at all except to preface My Best Shot Monday offering today.

This shot was taken on the pup's last morning with us waiting for his true mommy (my mom-in-law) to come get him. I call it 'the final stretch'.

How about you? Share the story of your Best Shot.

Just Another January in So Cal

2009-01-17T13:20:00.000-08:00

The Duets Begin

2009-01-15T19:07:00.000-08:00

My oldest daughter and I are totally getting into the idea of working together on the When You Give a Girl a Camera project. Mother Daughter Duets has such a lovely ring to it.

Yesterday it was bath time with bubbles. My youngest daughter got the reap the rewards of 2 photographers hard at work.

My daughter's photo is on the left (it's an incredible shot, isn't it?) and mine is on the right.

I think we are going to make some beautiful music together!

Mom 2.0 and stuff

2009-01-13T14:28:00.000-08:00

I am delighted to announce that I am speaking at the Mom 2.0 Summit in Houston Feb. Yay. I am thrilled to be in such good company. I certainly hope to see many of you there as well. Check out the agenda. What's not to like?

If you want a chance to win a free ticket to the Summit, go enter the 'Snap to it' photo contest at Kirsty. Come on all you awesome photographers out there...make me proud.

The contest deadline is coming up (like in a day or so) so Snap to it! Hee hee.

the view from here

2009-01-12T22:52:00.000-08:00

Read all about it at Shutter Sisters.

Oh, The Possibilities

2009-01-11T21:32:00.000-08:00

I know we're already almost half way through January but I am still settling into this whole New Year thing. In past years, with the hustle of the holidays I think I have passed over the event of the New Year with little attention. But, this go 'round has felt different. I have done a lot of musing about what it all means. It's a clean slate (not that I consider mine dirty) that can offer new beginnings. Possibility. Potential. Growth. So much to look forward to.

I'm not into the idea of resolutions really. I think breaking them can feel icky so I'm more about intentions. With intentions, the best intentions are enough. At least that's the way I can let myself off the hook if I don't keep up with a project like, let's say, 365. Yes, I have started a 365 project with no other rules except to shoot at least one photo every single day for 365 days (the entire year of 2009). Although I am not making myself post every photo of the series, I'm sure you'll all be hearing a lot more about the project in future posts. So, why the confession? I thought it was only right to at least admit that I am intending to do it. If for nothing else, to document this year in a routine of photographs. It's a small gesture that I know will push me creatively and encourage me to keep seeing things through fresh eyes. Every day. It may seem small but I think it's a good thing.

Behold, images 1-9. They are all in my 365 Flickr set.

As far as My Best Shot this week, is the opening image of this post. It reminds me that even the tiniest gesture can feel important. I'm sure that among a million other creative projects I am participating in (big and small) and/or future projects I'm sure will reveal themselves this year, each one will be worthy of my attention and will be meaningful (if not to anyone else, to myself).

Here's to all that the future holds for each of us. May we honor each day and make each of them meaningful in our own way.

What kinds of meaning are you discovering in your life these days? Do share with us your Best Shot this week. Whatever it means, I'm guessing it's wonderful.

Anyone else attempting a 365 project this year? I'd love to know the company I am in.

Edited to add...as it turns out Stephanie Roberts shared the perfect 'how-to' 365 guide over at Shutter Sisters. I am delighted by this timing! Too cool. Thanks Stephanie.

16 Things About Me

2009-01-09T19:11:00.000-08:00

I am…

a slipper girl
dependant on my morning cup of coffee
nothing without my girlfriends
not formally trained
a cat person
a short hair girl
partial to Stella Artois
happily married
never tan
a milk drinker
a napper
a crier
not into food
a master parallel parker
secretly trying to do the 365 project this year
a virgo

From what I can tell, this is a flickr meme. I was tagged by busymomma66 who was tagged by Betzography who was tagged by jodyangel…and so it goes.

Now, consider yourself tagged (there must be 16 of you out there, right?). Come on, you know you want to get distracted from whatever it is you are supposed to be doing. Tap, tap, is this thing on?

All the Rage

2009-01-06T11:39:00.000-08:00

I have been hearing about the amazing Kelly Corrigan for months now. My mom keeps telling me to get her book The Middle Place. Someone said she was featured in the Oprah mag. Her name has come up in many emails and conversations in the past few weeks and today I found her on youtube via a facebook link by the insightful and ever delightful Kyran Pittman. Thank you Kyran.

I figured the click of my mouse was the least I could do to finally demystify this Kelly Corrigan of which everyone is raving about.

Well, get out your tissue boxes my friends and see for yourself why Kelly is all the rage.

And yes Mom, you were right and I will run out and get her book today. I promise.

Sparkle Plenty

2009-01-04T12:15:00.000-08:00

Superhero Andrea wrote post yesterday at Shutter Sisters challenging us to capture the weather in our images. I love the idea. Lucky for me, even here in Southern California, we've actually had some weather this winter.

This morning I woke to the cloud covered sun lighting up a million water drops that blanketed my backyard. I set my camera down on the patio right against the wet grass and shot photo after photo. The sparkle of magic and impossible hope left me enchanted.

As we being a New Year, it certainly seems like a great way to start. Have you found any magic from behind your lens of late?

Raising a Glass (or a plastic tea cup)

2008-12-30T17:39:00.000-08:00

Well, I managed to let the very last Monday of 2008 pass me by without posting My Best Shot. Heavy Sigh.

My husband and I took a few days off without kids or computers (very late notice) and Monday came and went while I was gone. It wasn't until the long drive home that it dawned on me. I totally missed it. I apologize! But, alas, I will not let the end of this year pass without taking notice. And so, I am considering this a kind My Best Shot as we give a farewell toast the year that is almost behind us and a welcome toast to 2009.

It's a big deal to wrap up the year. And it feels particularly good to have a fresh start come Thursday. I want to honor both the coming and the going. Please feel free to join me.

If you've got a shot you'd like to share (something you had ready for Monday or something new) please leave your links.

Farewell to all that 2008 was and Cheers to all that 2009 will be.

The Inside Scoop

2008-12-27T09:54:00.000-08:00

I am pleased to announce that I am now contributing over at LA Moms Blogs. I've got my first post up today. If you want to get the inside scoop on one of the Clark family's underlying stories of the season, be sure to click over and read all about it.

The Morning Of

2008-12-25T20:25:00.000-08:00

I hope you got all that you wished for this holiday! I know a few little girls that did.

Happy Holidays!

2008-12-24T10:28:00.000-08:00

Happenings

2008-12-21T21:12:00.000-08:00

Around here we are spending time at home, avoiding the crowds, keeping warm, maintaining perspective and being mindful of what is important. At least that's the goal. But perhaps more than anything I'm trying really hard to not focus on the fact that my husband has the flu and that Christmas is a few days away and let's see, the incubation period for the flu is usually a few days and, well, you know...
Did I say maintaining perspective?

What kinds of things are happening around your house these days?

Speaking of happenings, a little bird told me that Shutter Sisters is giving away a sweet snaptotes bag . You know, the kind that you can create with your own photo? Way cool ladies! Right up your alley.

So Many Things

2008-12-20T08:49:00.000-08:00

I have been meaning to post this week about so many things...

Last minute gift ideas (in the video game genre), places to visit to help get you into the holiday spirit, DIY gifts to make for the grandparents, the list goes on and on.

But, I have a stack of holiday cards with no addresses on them and I am pretty sure they aren't going to address themselves, darn it. You'd think with technology these days, there'd be a way. I digress.

My intention for these next few days is remain grounded, centered and mindful not allowing the chaos of the world around me to distract me from enjoying this time of year. Are you keeping your head and heart in a sacred, nurturing place these days? I'd love to hear how you're keeping yourself sane amidst it all.

Warm Feet, Happy Heart

2008-12-15T07:26:00.001-08:00

Yet another gentle reminder to slow down and enjoy the season. I'm finding that I'm getting as much done in slipper mode as I would be getting done in walking shoe mode. I encourage you to try it and see. Besides, nothing beats being loafing around in slippers when the weather outside is frightful.

What kinds of photo tracks are you making these days?

Hey Best Shot Monday mavens, go leave a comment at Shutter Sisters to get into the drawing for an HP Compact Photo Printer. If anyone could put it to good use, it's one of you ladies.

Giveaway City

2008-12-12T10:26:00.000-08:00

-photo taken with my Lensbaby (pretty, ain't it?)

Not only is Shutter Sisters giving away a Lensbaby today (omg!) but Design Mom is hosting a 12 Days of Christmas at her blog where there's a Shutter Sisters necklace up for grabs as well as an HP All in One Printer. Among 11 other yum yum items.

Go. Click. And. Comment. Now.

Catching up on Gratitude

2008-12-07T22:30:00.000-08:00

I know Thanksgiving is long gone and Christmas is soon approaching but I'm not sure I'm done with the giving thanks part. These photos (my best shots for today) were captured on Thanksgiving day and show a glimpse into what I am grateful for. It was the kind of day dreams are made of. A quiet morning, puttering over food and tiny details....taking time to relax and enjoy the day. And an evening of just being together...no agenda, no drama, no rush.

As the holidays draw near, I will take a lesson from my Thanksgiving and try to do the same thing all over again. The hustle of it all just doesn't serve me I've decided. And so, I choose to linger and savor time as it passes. You'll hold me to that won't you? I just might need your help on this one. Who's with me?

What we're there moments you captured this week that had you savoring the season?

Cute Girl Stuff

2008-12-04T10:22:00.000-08:00

My daughters have every little tiny girl toy known to the Universe. I’ve noticed that beyond an occasional Barbie boot or Polly Pocket accessory, most of their toys of choice are the non-human kind. If it’s not a Pretty Pony or Littlest Pet Shop, then it’s some sort of stuffed animal (beanie baby, Webkinz, whatevs. They’re not picky).

When I found out from The Parent Blogger Network that EA was coming out with the Littlest Pet Shop games for both the Nintendo Wii and the Nintendo DS Lite I was super-stoaked. That alone proves that I too am infatuated by all things Littlest Pet Shop. No, I’m not kidding. Those things are adorable! I would have LOVED this stuff as a kid just as I did all the little Hello Kitty loot I collected. Not much has changed. The tiny trinkets my girls love remind me of those days. It’s amazing that this many years later (I won’t give you specific years here) that this is still what many girls gravitate to. Now, toss in a little gaming action (the latest rage for girls) and you’ve got yourself a hit.

In other words, the girls love Littlest Pet Shop gone video game. We have both the DS Lite version for my 5 year old and the Wii for my 11 year old. You can never get enough, “Ah, look at how cuuuuuute!” delivered in high pitched squeal. I think it’s been really fun to see their furry little friends come to life and explore their happy little virtual homes. And I like kidding myself into thinking that maybe they won’t keep asking for a puppy for Christmas since they’ve got one on the TV. A mom can dream can’t she?

Click

2008-12-01T04:00:00.000-08:00

You are not going to want to miss a single day of this action!

Happy Holidays!

things change

2008-11-30T14:13:00.001-08:00

As the holiday for the giving of thanks comes to an end and we slip back into our daily routines I am melancholy. The air has been crisp and cool, light is soft and days seem to pass quickly this time of year. Family and friends are near and memories are made.

I had a little wake-up call this weekend and it's reminded me to savor every single minute of my life. Right now. As it is today. It's been the of the kind of perspective you need every once in a while to get you surefooted; to bring you back to what matters most.

When the leaves float from their branches with each puff of the autumn breeze I remember that nothing is forever. Everything changes. It's a state of mind that makes me appreciate the moments as they are and as they pass; leaving memories and of course in my case, photographs. I know that goes for you too.

What kind of memory making did you do as Thanksgiving came and went? Share your Best Shots!

A Fully Awesome Day in LA

2008-11-29T09:01:00.001-08:00

If there is one thing about living in So Cal that is great it's that we're in pretty close proximity to anything and everything you could ever want to do. In this case I'm talking about doing it up Hollywood style at the historic and totally cool El Capitan Theatre. This my friends, is not your typical movie theater. It's an ideal venue to see a movie with your family for sure. It's small and intimate with an old time vibe that takes the experience to a new level. Beautiful architectural details, rich fabric curtains and the unmistakable Mighty Wurlitzer organ that is being played as you stroll in and find your seat. And please note-they have special movie seat boosters you can use for your young ones. Fully Awesome. I'm not trying to be overly-dramatic but it is something to be experienced for sure. It's even worth the drive from Orange County.

Even though I've lived here all my life, I've only visited this landmark twice but both times were absolutely wonderful. Our first trip was for The Little Mermaid Sing-a-Long where Ariel actually opened the show. Talk about a hit!

This most recent trip was to see the latest Disney offering Bolt in 3D. Bolt didn't open the show like Ariel did but a grand Holiday Spectacular did and it was delightful and oh-so-very Christmasy. All the characters were there in their holiday best. Mickey, Minnie, Pooh Bear and all the Princesses. My youngest daughter was mesmerized. She even got a high-five from Goofy (dressed as Santa of course). That's big time.

After the opening act they showed the movie which was an ACTION PACKED adventure. Did I mention it's in 3D? Wow. And the 3D glasses you get are like real glasses, not paper, thank you very much. My oldest daughter and 8-year-old nephew LOVED it. My 5-year-old did too but the storyline wasn't as easy to follow for her as for the older kids. The movie got more fun (as in less on-the-edge-of-your-seat and more belly laughing) when the hilarious character Rhino the hamster got introduced onto the scene. I think he might be my new favorite animated character of all time. His one-liners were so funny that they've already become popular banter in our home.

After the movie we enjoyed shopping and a snack at the malt shop that is connected to the Theater. From the last trip, I was smart enough to be sure my girls brought their own money for a Bolt souvenir. Worked like a charm. You'd better believe we brought home a big fat overstuffed hamster home with us, bucked teeth and all.

If you are looking for something fun to do with your family I would highly recommend making a day of it to experience the magic of the movies the way it should be done. Bolt (along with the Holiday Spectacular) is playing now through Jan. 4th at The El Capitan Theatre. It's a great way to unwind and spend some warm and cozy holiday family time together during some of this winter vacation time we've got coming. You won't regret it. And you won't want to go to just any old movie theater again.

Open Your Heart

2008-11-26T07:05:00.000-08:00

In the spirit of true Thanks and Giving, Kelly Rae Roberts is hosting a fundraiser full of heart. She and Jen Lemen are working together to make a little magic happen in Rwanda. The money donated will go directly to building Odette's mother Esteria's house. The one she's got now has since collapsed and is uninhabitable. And Kelly Rae is even giving away one of her amazing paintings as an incentive. Giving and Giving. It's so inspiring.

With even the smallest donations we can create something big together. Visit Kelly Rae's blog and donate what you can. Let's help make the magic happen, shall we?

Past, Present and Future

2008-11-25T12:58:00.000-08:00

I just revisited this interview I did with Maile of Daily Relish and couldn't believe how time flies. It's been a year!

Then there is this new little tid-bit at Our 365 about baby's first holiday photos which I wrote a while ago but was just published this week.

And last but not least I can only share three little words that you never want to hear in the same sentence with The Oprah Winfrey Show...cutting room floor. Which leads me to the Future part of this post where I reiterate what I know deep in my heart; all I have experienced up until now is merely the tip of the iceberg my friends. A dress rehearsal as my sister calls it. Despite my obvious disappointment, I take comfort in knowing the sky is the limit and I am flying.

How about you? Have you had any chance to reflect on what you've come from, where you are now and where you are going? This time of year is the perfect time to be thankful for what we do have and to look forward to the bright and brilliant future. I know it's going to be amazing. Can you feel it too?

On Growing and Grace

2008-11-23T20:22:00.000-08:00

Amidst all the recent hub-bub around here, my oldest daughter turned 11. That is some pretty big news! I haven't really even had the time to reflect and get too melancholy about it. The thing is, although I have the expected motherhood twinge of disbelief that my baby is growing up I am more in a place of total and utter gratitude and appreciation of who my daughter is now.

This year as we celebrated at the hippest bowling alley around I marveled at my daughter interacting with her friends; confident, comfortable, vibrant, funny, sincere, warm and happy. She's amazing this kid. My daughter. And she's growing up.

And did I mention full of grace?

Did you capture any highlights of your week that told such a story? Enlighten us with your Best Shot on this lovely Monday.

Celebrate the Click

2008-11-22T17:49:00.000-08:00

Amazing

2008-11-22T07:48:00.001-08:00

Although I no longer have a baby in the house *sniff sniff* I was eager to check out the new book by Desmond Morris Amazing Baby. The rumor was that it was a beautiful book adorned with interesting and relevant content but more importantly for my aesthetic, stunning photography.

Amazing Baby is all that and more. I am not easily impressed when it comes to the design of the baby book genre but this one is GORGEOUS. And very substantial-note the photo above right for scale. Choc full of insightful and enlightening text about the nature of baby and toddlerhood (as told in a fresh and unique perspective) Amazing Baby is one of those books that would never be left and forgotten on your bookshelves. Any parent would happily set this on the coffee table as not only a valuable resource but as a work of art.

Amazing Baby
would make for the perfect baby shower gift. You can pick it up at Amazon.

Review brought to you by The Parent Bloggers Network.

(Less than) 24 Hours in Chicago

2008-11-19T22:45:00.000-08:00

What I Know For Sure

Life is full of surprises.
Magic is happening behind the scenes of our lives whether we recognize it or not.
I am surrounded by an incredible support system both off-line and on. Thank you all!
I choose to live in Southern California for a reason (namely the weather).
Having your hair and make-up done by professionals is worth the trip.
The last few days have been a grand adventure.
This is only the beginning.
And last but certainly not least,
what happens at the Oprah show, stays at the Oprah show.

The Map of my Heart

2008-11-16T10:17:00.000-08:00

In the ebb and flow of our everyday lives we walk and wander our own unique path. Some days it's a stroll; a slow but steady meandering, one foot in front of the other. Others we use our big tall legs to walk, taking confident and bold strides into the future following only the map of our heart.

For me, the last few days I have been asked to find the strength of my legs to walk boldly toward a place that is hazy in the distance. Although I cannot make out exactly what it looks like, I can feel that is somewhere I need to be. A place I have mused about for my future. I had no idea my future could come so quickly.

I spent my Saturday filming a segment for the Oprah show. A dear friend, my fairy godmother, my husband and kids and a bunch of strangers (who are no longer strangers) all with me in my home for one of the most surreal experiences of my life. The feeling might only be eclipsed by my flying out to Chicago for the shows taping on Tuesday.

I know, I know I must share the details. But right now my head is spinning and my knees are weak and I am using every bit of strength I have to keep walking, trusting, enjoying, soaring along my path and the opportunities that lie before me. It's all so very overwhelming-good overwhelming but overwhelming none the less.

The shot above is the Best way to describe what I am feeling right now. I captured it in our entry way only moments after everyone left our house and the dust began to settle.

Big huge grateful exhale.

Let's see what Best moment you caught this week. Something from the map of your heart I hope.

A Little Bit of Bliss

2008-11-13T10:24:00.001-08:00

Mrs. French (Traci with an 'i') and Mrs. Clark (me, Tracey with an 'e-y') have a little cross- posting fun happening today at Traci's blog Bliss and Shutter Sisters.

Come on over and find your bliss, if you will.

Best Shot in the Magic Mirror

2008-11-10T07:50:00.000-08:00

Today's timeless moment is offered in celebration Springtree Road's Black and White in November.

What have you seen through your lens this week?

This Day

2008-11-05T10:38:00.000-08:00

"This day is filling up my room.

It's coming through my door.

Oh, I have not seen this day before."

-Karen Peris (The Innocence Mission)

to listen click here and play song #7. it's perfect for today.
Karen Peris is my most favorite singer/songwriter ever.

history

2008-11-04T14:31:00.001-08:00

A Purrrrrfect BSM

2008-11-02T18:56:00.000-08:00

From pumpkin carver to Cheetah is no time flat. Meeeeeow.

I cannot wait to see this weeks Best Shots. Something tells me they are going to more festive than any other week to date (except for maybe last year or the year before that).

Go ahead, show us the Halloween goods!

And you are welcome to share more homespun goodness over at The Sundays at Home post at Shutter Sisters for a chance to win a copy of America at Home.

Glimmering Best Shot

2008-10-26T19:31:00.001-07:00

What sorts of glimmers of the season have you discovered this week?

Trick or Treat Disney Style

2008-10-25T09:44:00.000-07:00

My girls and I recently had the pleasure of attending Mickey's Trick-or-Treat Party at California Adventure. Last years event was such a blast we were delighted for the invite again. With each passing year outings like this get more and more fun (and easy) as the girls are older and more independent. The energy, excitement and stamina of a 5-year-old makes the late night galas (like this one) much more enjoyable for everyone.

Disneyland in all it's season grandeur offers Halloween Time- a festive transformation of both Disneyland and California Adventure-from Sept 26th through Nov 2nd. Mickey's Trick or Treat Party is the 'costume party' part of the gig. It's Disney's way of celebrating this spooky time of year, in a not-to-spooky way. Thank you Mickey for offering a family friendly (non scary)celebration of the season.

We enjoyed our evening at the party so much as music and dancing were happening around every corner. Characters danced and played around the park. There's nothing that screams October like doing the chicken dance with big blue Sully from Monsters Inc. Am I right? And there were star sightings a plenty. Good times. The actual trick-or-treat stations were dotted around the park (they give you a map to find them) where there were sweet AND healthy treats available. Yes, there were bags of apple slices and carrots, raisins, etc. I really appreciate the healthy offerings and my children were a lot better off snacking on the fruits and veggies, believe me.

You've only got a week or so to check out Halloween Time and only a few select dates (Oct 28, 29, 30, 31) to attend Mickey's Trick-or-Treat Party so head on down to the Happiest Place on Earth and have some Halloween family fun!

To Love and Be Loved

2008-10-23T11:16:00.000-07:00

"To love someone deeply gives you strength. Being loved by someone deeply gives you courage." -- Lao Tzu

Those Best Shot Moments

2008-10-19T13:43:00.000-07:00

When moments like this present themselves I melt; my camera at the ready of course. I shoot with reckless abandon loving each shot more than the last, in a zone of celebrating these moments of my life that make it all worthwhile.

What I love most about it is knowing that it's just these simple mundane moments that can bring such a grand perspective. Some days it can even feel like a heaven on earth. I know I'm not alone. Sentiments like these resonate from the blogosphere day after day, small celebration after small celebration.

As a mother that can often become enveloped in a sea of what feels overwhelming and never ending in motherhood (not in a good way), the warm glow of what is really important is what gives me hope. It's what keeps me mindful and appreciative of my life.

I shared a shot from this mini-love-shoot in a presentation I gave recently about capturing the perfect photo for holiday cards and how to use those photos to create an awe-inspiring cards. I know many of you manage to do just that year after year. I hope you join us at Shutter Sisters as we explore and discover new ways to create great greeting this season. And please come over and join our Flickr group, great greetings! and share what you have done in past years as well as your process this year. It will be fun to share our inspirations with one another!

Share with us those moments melted you this week.

It Must be Love

2008-10-16T07:16:00.001-07:00

Sometimes it's the little things....

Happy Love Thursday.

The Best Kinds of Miracles

2008-10-12T10:34:00.001-07:00

"I know a lot of you folks have come out to the farm and you've seen the words, and a lot of you have asked me, 'how could this have happened?'. I don't know, but it has happened... at a time when we really don't see many miraculous things. Maybe we do. Maybe they're all right there around us everyday, we just don't know where to look."
-Homer Zuckerman

What sorts of Ordinary Miracles have you found this week?

Today's post is dedicated to the miracle that is Annika.

Books to Inspire

2008-10-10T11:53:00.000-07:00

Today at Shutter Sisters is a round up of some really awesome creativity books!
We have just launched a bookstore over there too.

Don't worry...I'll be opening one over here too. Also to include books for moms and stuff. Woot! So much to do, so little time.

tribute

2008-10-08T09:21:00.000-07:00

Shopping Some Best Shots

2008-10-05T20:33:00.000-07:00

Our Sunday consisted of a large list of to-dos. The shoe store, Home Depot and the super market. Of course, the camera came with me. Who knew that taking photos in the super market can actually make for a pretty hilarious (and even fun) outing. For a day filled with errands, my girls and I had a pretty good go of it.

The two I'm sharing for my best shot(s) are among my favorites of the 100 photos I took today. Yes, 100! I will add however that the girls got in on the action too so they shot a fraction of the 100. But still! Wow. Talk about trigger happy!

And speaking of running errands and being trigger happy...did you know that you can pop into a Long Drugs and get photos and other photo related products while you shop? HP has a new photo kiosk where it all can happen right there in front of your eyes. Even calendars and cool collage photos. Just one more way to get some of your Best Shots off of your computer and made into something tangible! Something I need to do more often. How about you? I guess this 'week in the life' project has really got me thinking about ways to help myself and my family enjoy the photos I take everyday.

And as a little incentive for those of you with a local Longs Drugs in your neighborhood, when I signed up in the Longs Studio Club I got a coupon for bogo free poster. Woot! And for those of you in California, I actually have a coupon to share with you for a bogo free calendar right here. Compliments of Blue Suit Mom. Enjoy!

Happy Best Shot Monday! Can't wait to see yours.

Two Rooms

2008-10-04T19:54:00.000-07:00

Ali mentioned in a recent post, "I love that many of you are changing up the project to make it fit your life. That is perfect." That's what I love about Ali. There's no pressure with her. She wants to let us off the hook and encourage us to work at our own pace and do it in a way that feels good to us. So refreshing!

I think as I mull over how I'm going to end up creating my book, I might design many pages like this. Almost like a comparison. A contrast. In this case from one daughter's room to the other.

This foursome is especially appealing to me and it represents my daughters and where they are right now, in this moment in time. It makes me very happy. It makes me appreciate who they are and how they are growing up. Becoming their own incredible people in this world. It makes me so proud.

I cannot tell you how much fun I am having with this project. What about you? Are any you playing along? I'm eager to hear how it's going for you? Are you having fun this weekend shooting your world?

In the Hush

2008-10-03T10:32:00.000-07:00

An important part of showing 'a week in the life' for me is capturing the routine of everyday. It's about our normal life and the moments I will look back on fondly and deeply miss. Photos like this one of my youngest snuggling with her "purps" (as she calls it) as she drifts off to sleep. She fidgets with it right under her nose, sniffing and smelling for just the right spot and as she discovers it...heaven...and the settling in of sweet, sweet sleep.

This post was inspired by the 5 Minutes for Mom bedroom set giveaway sponsored by Home & Bedroom Furniture. If anyone needs a nice, new, matching bedroom set it's the underprivileged second child in our house. She's got all the mismatched hand-me downs in her room-poor baby. And the smallest room with no closet. Sheesh.

Wish me luck. I would so love to win this for her! And I encourage you to enter the contest too if you haven't already. The deadline to enter is Oct. 13th.

Cool Places

2008-10-01T22:08:00.001-07:00

I love days like these.

Every Night

2008-09-30T00:00:00.000-07:00

Shooting everyday moments also means shooting every night moments too. Ours usually revolves around bedtime snacks. Since last night was watermelon, I took the time to snap a few shots.

Shooting indoors can be tricky. Shooting indoors at night can be near impossible. But, since I'm a tenacious gal, I have come up with a few tried and true techniques I use to get the job done. A few of which I am sharing today at Shutter Sisters.

This first shot came straight out of the camera.

This second version is my idea of a small tweak that makes for a much better shot all around.

All I had to do was dial out a little yellow/add a little blue, dial out a smidge of red/add a little green and boost the contrast a tad. A 10 second fix that improves the shot and makes it a keeper. Don't ya think?

Sisterly Best Shot

2008-09-28T10:16:00.000-07:00

As I observe my everyday life for the 'a week in the life' project, I'm seeing snapshots at every turn. Fleeting moments captured in still pictures. I'm seeing clearly moments like this.

My intention is to see my life for what it is; it's absurdity, authenticity, hilarity, sincerity (the list goes on) and the goal is to capture the many facets of my life that will remind me of today. I know that one day I will miss the tiny toys all over the family room, giving baths, little mismatched socks, making heart shaped peanut butter and jelly and sitting through elaborate plays starring fairy princesses and magic spells in the living room.

What shot reminds you of today?

For a little inspiration be sure to click over to Shutter Sisters first thing Monday morning. The lovely Hula has shared something about capturing the world around us in a whole new way. Believe me when I tell you that she converted me instantaneously. I'm sure you'll find her post and images irresistible.

In Celebration of Today

2008-09-27T09:25:00.000-07:00

OK, so I might be skipping ahead (considering this is only supposed to be the gathering phase and I'm already in playing with my photos mode) but the idea of honoring our daily life is a cool exercise. Plus, I finally figured out how to install my new fonts which is just like the coolest thing ever! It's so fun to play with new fonts!

Or maybe I'm trying to be the teacher's pet (even though Ali swears this is not a class). In case you didn't know by now, people consider me a Type A personality. *cough, cough*

Anyhow, here's to celebrating this weekend, in grand mundane fashion.

And don't forget to add your comment on the post at Shutter Sisters to get in the drawing to win a copy of one of Ali's books. You have until midnight tonight to comment.

You are Invited

2008-09-26T09:59:00.001-07:00

Image today in honor of Flare Friday.

Taking a moment to extend a few invitations...

First, Ali Edwards is beginning an irresistible 'week in the life' project over on her blog which will start next week. I RSVP to her invite to join in the creative fun at Shutter Sisters today. And what's even more fun is that we have copies of her books that we are giving away to our readers. Be sure to comment on the post to be included in the random drawing.

Also, mark your calendars for next week (Tuesday 9/30 @ 5pm) as I am cordially inviting you to an event at The Attic Door in Burbank (So Cal). I will be sharing tips and tricks on taking awesome holiday photos and incorporating those shots into the perfect holiday cards. It's never too early to muster up some inspiration and get a jump start on these sorts of things. Won't you join us?

Love Takes Flight

2008-09-24T22:35:00.000-07:00

This lovely work of art was created by the ever-charming super-talent Kelly Rae Roberts. Everything she touches is gold, I swear.

And speaking of gold, I am beyond thrilled to announce that her new book Taking Flight is now available. If you do nothing else, you must get this book. Consider it a gift of love to yourself. It is Love Thursday after all. Why not celebrate?

Melancholy

2008-09-23T20:46:00.001-07:00

I can't get enough of this video by Jen Gray.

Rockin' My Best Shot

2008-09-21T20:00:00.000-07:00

I remember the Christmas morning when my youngest daughter got her guitar. She's been a rocker ever since she came screaming, er singing, from the womb. I guess Santa figured the least he could do was to get her a guitar at a young age to foster her love of the rock star lifestyle; loud, wild and free.

But, as I have mentioned so many times before, she's a girl who plays by her own rules. You cannot pin one persona on her, no way. She's a renegade ballerina. A singing soccer star. A fierce and fiery, tender and true spirit. A wild and wonderful one-of-kind kid who lives life cranked to 11.

Now, neither one of my girls knew much about Hannah Montana or Miley Cyrus when I got the job to shoot a handful of VIP parties and 'meet and greets' on the Best of Both Worlds Tour. I know, I know. It seems like an impossibility, but, it's true. But for me, after 5 concerts where I shot photos like the one seen on this cool site and some of the shots featured in this concert memory book book, I got to see a little bit about the life of a young rock star and almost all the lyrics to every song...

Fast forward to now where my girls are both really embracing thier inner rock stars. Especially the young one. Surprise surprise. Note the Miley/Hannah concert tour t-shirt.

How could I not share weekend shot as my Best Shot today? It's priceless.

Have you got some rockin' shots to share today?

The Baby Daze

2008-09-21T09:10:00.000-07:00

Wishing Happy Babies to Kristen and Rebecca, two rockin' mamas from Blogville that we know and love and that are ready to deliver bundles of joy sometime in the very near future. Blog buddies have been invited to participate in a remembering the baby years virtual baby shower so I have been pouring over photos of my own daughter's baby years. Sigh.

Moments like this one suspended in time make my mommy heart break into a million pieces. Sniff sniff.

Before I get really nuts and post some kind of slideshow featuring 500 of my favorite baby pix, I will just say to the mothers-to-be congratulations on yet another beginning where a new little person joins the family ranks and the whole world begins again. Despite the sometimes seemingly endless days and sleepless nights, you are welcoming the mystery and magic of the sacred days of babyhood.

Here's to avoiding colic, getting a shower now and again and taking as many naps as humanly possible.

Cheers!

A Lovely Day

2008-09-17T22:33:00.000-07:00

"Love is woman's moon and sun..." -Dorothy Parker

Sleep is for the Weak

2008-09-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

At BlogHer this summer there was a book signing for Sleep is for the Weak—an anthology of stories from the wildly popular mom bloggin’ crowd. And there, sitting at the table signing stacks of books were a group of women I have had the privilege of getting to know both online and in person. Women who share the joys and the struggles of motherhood with us; fiercely passionate mothers that aren’t afraid of telling it like it is. The good, the bad and the I can barely hang on to a shred of sanity ugly. Been there.

Watching, live and in person as these talented mamas got their due recognition in the real world (as opposed to the virtual world) was super-sweet, signing their names to a book, with actual paper and real ink, handing their written words off to the masses with no keyboard or laptop to be found. Well, OK, laptops were no doubt back in the hotel rooms.

Since many of the book’s contributors are bloggers that I got to know pretty early on in my blogging days they are near and dear to my mommy blogging heart. Having the book in my hot little hands is like having a little piece of them with me. Reading hilarious anecdotes and heart wrenching truths from the likes of Jenny Lauck, Liz Gumbinner, Kristen Chase, Alice Bradley and Eden Marriott Kennedy (the list goes on and on) is a dose of good mommy medicine and a celebration of how brave, bold and brilliant the mothers of the blogosphere are. But, you don’t have to tell us that…because we already know.

Sleep is for the Weak is available for purchase through Amazon.

This review was written for The Parent Blogger Network.

Light-Hearted Best Shots

2008-09-14T17:00:00.000-07:00

This has been a tough week on the kids. Of course, I am in full celebration mode of having my time back-sorry, but mama needs her time-but for them, it's been an overload of new things; people, places, schedules, things to remember, homework to do, etc. Both girls, back to school all day everyday meant a roller coaster of emotions from excitement and enthusiasm to hesitation and melt-downs. Total brain over-load.

This weekend we just needed a little levity and what better place than our our backyard? Here's how my kids blew off a little steam from the pressure-cooker that is the first week of school.

How did you capture this past week? Hopefully you had a little fun while you were at it. Do share!

Getting A Little Perspective Today

2008-09-12T09:47:00.000-07:00

Today is A Little Perspective Day!

A day to focus on how are children view the world through the lens of a camera. The shot above was taken with a trust point and shoot many years ago when my youngest daughter was barely 2 years old. Pretty sweet shot!

So, let's see what your shutterbugs have come up with!

Leave your links in the comments so we can take the day to click around for a Little inspiration. And don't forget to add your pix to our Flickr pool too.

For tips on how to get your children into the 'click' visit my article at PBS Parents.

It's Nice to be Noticed

2008-09-10T11:43:00.000-07:00

Sometimes in our day to day work we get lost in the job. Rushed and distracted we go about our business taking care of tasks if only to check one more to-do off our list. The days go quickly and there's not much time to really reflect on our successes and yet, every day is an accomplishment, a reason to applaud ourselves.

As mothers, we wipe noses, hands and bottoms. We tote, juggle and shuffle 10-20 pounders and their gear. We manage to get kids up and out to school clothed, fed, homeworked, and back again for more food, baths, books and bed. We get through laundry, dishes and bills. And somewhere in there we hopefully eek out time for ourselves. For many of you reading this, that time often consists of blogging; about family, motherhood, our feelings. Or we turn toward something other than that. We write about gardening or politics. We cook or paint or take photographs to keep our autonomy. We create communities so that we may be seen and heard and understood. And yet, sometimes through all of it, we don't notice or acknowledge how much we are doing and how well we are doing it.

Women often fall prey to guilt from all the things we are not getting done. We focus what we're not doing and we hold close the notion that we aren't enough. But, the truth is, we are enough. And what we pull off every day is amazing.

Since the launch of Shutter Sisters, I have been a busy blogger on top of everything else. Getting through my to-do list has felt next to impossible and some days I am sure that it's never going to get done. All the plans I have for myself, my career, my blogs might never come to fruition. I so quickly forget that in fact everyday I have things out in the world to celebrate. My children for one who grace the world with their very beings. My photographs which fill many books and hang on many walls beyond my own and live on blogs that people visit every day. I know this is all true but sometimes I forget to enjoy it.

It took kind words from a stranger to remind me that what is happening at Shutter Sisters (or any other part of my life) doesn't rely on what I plan to do in the future with it. It's not about my looming to-do list but instead what exists right now. What IS.

Reading Scott's insightful words made me realize that the true purpose behind Shutter Sisters is being seen and understood perfectly, even by an outsider (for lack of better words) and perhaps even more surprising, a Gadget Guy. It was the little nod I needed to make me sit my action down for a few minutes to enjoy what I have accomplished, and what I do everyday.

I encourage you to do the same for yourself, over a few deep breaths. I promise, it'll be time well spent.

A Best Shot Through Fresh Eyes

2008-09-08T06:00:00.000-07:00

Seeing the world the way your children see the world is a gift. The beauty of handing your kids the camera is getting a glimpse into what see as important to capture in a photo. It can be enlightening and inspiring!

A portrait of a sister under trees in upstate NY, summer vacation 2008

My oldest daughter spent her graduation money on a new camera. Her own camera. I have never been one not to share my cameras with my kids but she wanted her own camera, not mine. Of course, I couldn't be happier that she loves photography despite it's prominence in our everyday life. I am thrilled that my love of photography hasn't caused her to run the other way. At least not yet anyway.

Over at PBS Parents today, my Expert of the Month post goes live. Go check it out! I hope it inspires you to encourage the children in your life to get into photography. I would love to hear your comments over there so we can start a little discussion in the next few weeks on the subject. You can even add photos that your kids take in the Flickr Pool called A Little Perspective. I'd love to see what you're kids come up with when they are behind the lens.

And on this fine Best Shot Monday share with us your best capture of the week.

And how about a little something EXTRA this week here at Mother May I?? I propose this Friday A Little Perspective Day. That means you can pop over here and share a link to your favorite shot from your child's photo collection. Let's honor their creative vision-no matter how young they are. What do you think? Are you up for a Little fun this week? Hope to see you back here on Friday, if not sooner.

On Our Last Day of Summer

2008-09-07T14:53:00.001-07:00

rocks on the porch in oregon

photo shot with this cool camera

Memory is a way of holding onto the things you love, the things you are, the things you never want to lose.

~The Wonder Years

Best Shot Monday's post will come on Monday this week. : ) Come back by tomorrow! Thx.

Ready for Change (and I'm not just talking politics)

2008-09-03T21:10:00.000-07:00

Hello. My name is Tracey and I am the mother of a middle-schooler.

As of yesterday anyway. Wow. It’s still so surreal—surreal and bittersweet but truthfully, more than anything I am just so excited for her—for the new chapter in her life and in mine. I have let her take the lead on this one; as I watch, wait, try to read her as she makes her way into adolescence growing and changing, becoming her own person. I am inspired by her grace.

But, growing and changing means puberty and that word can strike terror into any mother’s heart. Lucky for me, as long as I don’t say that word, talking about it isn’t as hard as I had thought. I have made a very conscious effort to act as breezy as possible about the changes that have come and those on the horizon for my daughter. Being open about own body, my cycle, etc. have made for some pretty perfect ‘teachable moments’.

For example…
What happens when you mix a trip to Disneyland, a pair of white bermudas, and a mother who is ill prepared? One of those 'teachable moments'. My daughter swooped in to save me, in calm yet heroic fashion whipping out a quarter from her purse. Isn’t that what this is for? she said pointing to the metal box stuck to the bathroom wall. OK. She’s savvy. I’m impressed. My problem was quickly resolved with very little incident all thanks to my 10 year old. I beamed with pride.

All of this to say that despite the fact that I have been open and honest about these things, I was eager to review a DVD called “Healthy Chats for Girls – an age-appropriate sensitive-yet-fun discussion about Puberty and Growing Up” for the Parent Blogger Network. And I am glad I did.

The DVD comes in the My First Period Kit created by the kind, approachable and celebrated doctor Crystal de Freitas. Who by the way, is not only a mom to 3 kids but is a published author of books on the complex subject of our children’s sexuality. She’s an expert.

Considering the only education our young girls get about ‘coming of age’ (beyond the trash the media serves up) is the one film shown in elementary school to all 5th graders. Now, I can’t pretend to know how that info is delivered—I actually missed that day of 5th grade which I will admit is an absence of which I will never get over—I don’t think they’ve updated that film since they first created it and the fact that the film is shown in a room full of mortified and therefore giggly and chatty girls isn’t really conducive to really listening, let alone learning. That said, I am happy to have the Healthy Chats for Girls DVD to share with my daughter in the comfort of our own home, no distractions, just an authentic, easy to understand, painless “modern approach to that traditional chat between a mother and daughter”. That’s how the DVD is billed and that’s exactly what you get. Take a sneak peak if you want to see for yourself how it’s done.

I would recommend the Kit to any mother with daughters. After all, we need all the help we can get as embark on our new adventure through puberty (again). There. I said it.

The Sun Setting Over my Best Shot

2008-08-31T17:40:00.000-07:00

Have you captured any dreams or visions this week?

We're All in This Together

2008-08-29T09:21:00.000-07:00

First of all, let me offer an enormous thank you to all of you for your birthday wishes. From comments to emails to phone calls, I was overwhelmed with love! Thank you, thank you.

Besides my birthday, I just discovered that yesterday was Nie Nie day. After poking around from link to link for the details of what it all means, I am left with a big dose of perspective and an overwhelming sense of gratitude that in this sometimes surreal world of bloggering we are all connected.

Case in point- tragedy pulls us together in a way that is beyond inspiring. It is life changing. We don't know each other in many cases but our stories, or joys, our struggles are universal. We relate to and respect one another. We are a community of people that openly share our lives with one another with honor and courage and love. It is a privilege to be a part of something that authentic and powerful and it is, among countless other things, what keeps me blogging.

Design Mom is holding a silent auction in honor of Stephanie (Nie) and her husband Christian, to offer financial support for the Nielson family during these difficult days. I felt compelled to share it with you so that we continue the circle of the true community we have created, where we take care of one another because it's not only what we do, it's who we are.

Permission

2008-08-28T00:00:00.000-07:00

A Love Note to myself on my birthday.

My Meandering Best Shot

2008-08-24T16:50:00.000-07:00

As we head into what is the last official week of summer vacation, I have been busy tying up loose ends. Getting rooms sorted and cleaned to give the kids a fresh start when school begins (an end of summer ritual around here), frantically finishing up household projects that didn't get get done, squeezing in a few more family excursions and getting the family reunion photos uploaded to share with the family that have been patiently waiting for weeks now.

My best shot above is one from our trip in June. I am reminded of the beauty of the countryside where we drove and drove and took in the vast landscapes; where we were happy to be plucked from our normal daily life and looked forward to the endless possibilities that school-free days and sunshine offer.

I will admit however now, that it's images like these that make me long for simplicity when our routine is back in full swing and I have a little peace and quiet all to myself.

What sorts of stirrings are within your head and heart today?

My Golden Girl

2008-08-22T23:12:00.001-07:00

I can't tell you how much I have enjoyed shooting photos of my oldest daughter lately as she's growing up and truly becoming her own person. She starts middle school in a few weeks and perhaps reflecting on that has made the images I have been capturing even more surreal to me in the most bittersweet of ways.

How can this be my baby? My daughter? Finding herself, coming into her own power, expressing her beliefs; intense, vigilant, strong. She is mine, yes. But what's more...she is hers.

Lovely images from Paige at Shutter Sisters inspired me to put these two shots together. I called the pair yellow (for the obvious reasons) but as I type the word I am reminded that it's shares the name of a song I would sing to her when she was still young enough to be called my baby girl. I would softly sing and get teary with beauty of the melody and lyrics and how perfectly they told the story of my love for her.

Nothing has changed. I still hold those exact feelings and get weepy just hearing this song. Everything has changed. She is 10 now and force in this world that is undeniable. As I have been doing some seeking out of my own inner 10-year-old, I am inspired by daughter and everything she is; bright, beautiful, bold...just like the sun. And so yellow.

Edited to add- Discovering this incredible list from Jen Lemen has enlightened and inspired me as I strive to be the best mother possible to my 10-year-old. I wanted to share it with you.

A Superhero Shot for BSM

2008-08-17T14:57:00.000-07:00

Being Seen by Andrea Scher.

My Oregon adventure was amazing beyond words. God knows I've been posting enough of the images on Flickr to prove it. I could try to articulate how much it meant to spend quality time with 11 soul-sisters but I think when the planets align like that, the words only fall flat and could never really conjure up the magic that swirled about in the salty air, beneath the Mystical Manzanita Moon.

Among countless other gifts, I came home with an entire collection of photographs of myself which is a rarity for sure. That the shots so beautifully and insightfully tell the story of who I am leaves me feeling deeply seen and makes me weepy with gratitude.

I am a soul-searcher at heart so receiving photographs that have captured a part of my soul feels incredible. Through the lenses of women I hold dear, I am able to see myself as I am and as I strive to be;

open,

alive,

playful,

happy,

content,

and full of love.

Sometimes these kinds of shots are the Best Shots there are.

Share your Best Shots today, whomever and whatever they may have captured.

A Wing and Prayer

2008-08-11T09:20:00.001-07:00

Hold onto Hope
Trust the Universe
Listen for Answers
Welcome Transformation
Believe in Miracles
Entertain Angels

Do you have Magic to share? Enlighten us.

I am away for a few precious days, nurturing my soul, soaking in magic, soaring...
Each of the links above represent the Angels that surround me as I write. I am humbled and grateful to be among these Divine Creatures.

I Believe

2008-08-07T08:21:00.000-07:00

I beleive that going weak is perhaps the best way to receive the love we need.
From ourselves, each other and the Universe.

What do you believe?

A Flair for my Best Shot

2008-08-03T11:11:00.000-07:00

The girls and I spend some time with my family this weekend and had a blast. There's nothing like getting your snap happy hands on a baby that's as cute as my niece.

We had such a nice evening together and took so many fun photos I just had to showcase little miss sunshine in her glory; sun flair and all.

What's been bright and beautful in your world this week

Oh, and if anyone would like to sport this little button on their blog...

email me at tracey at shuttersisters dot com and I will send you the code. Thanks for asking!

Following My Heart

2008-07-31T11:17:00.001-07:00

As I was waiting at the street corner for these friends to cross and meet me for brunch, this heart was laying on the sidewalk at my feet.

Sweet serendipity.

*sigh*

There's nothing better than the love shared between our sister friends.

Reflecting on my Best Shot

2008-07-27T16:39:00.000-07:00

I'm a reflections girl on many levels. This shot is one from the PhotoWalk in San Francisco. The reflection itself is a little muddy but I know it's me.

Speaking of muddy...it's been a rough week since we've lost our sweet kitty. Thanks to you all for such kind comments and well-wishes.

So, the question is, what have you been reflecting on this week? Do share your Best Shot with us.

A Tribute to Real Love

2008-07-24T08:18:00.000-07:00

We had to say our good-byes yesterday to part of our family.

18 years ago a curious kitten was born in a closet. A few months later I met her (and the compassionate man that assisted her mother giving birth to she and her liter mates amidst piles of his clothing). I fell in love with the man, and his cats. He and I got married. We had two children. And we have never known one another without the cat family in our lives. The mama left us first. And then a sister. And yesterday, the last of our cats had to let go too. 18 years later and the end of such a rich chapter of our lives. The hole she has left feels cavernous. There will always be the open space in our hearts that can never be filled by any other and we will lovingly hold her memory there for always.

Good-bye sweet friend. We have loved you for so long and we shall never forget how blessed we were to have you with us all these years.

The Post-BlogHer Glow

2008-07-21T18:21:00.000-07:00

Everything I needed to know I learned at BlogHer

1. Internet friends ARE real friends (despite what any non-blogger might say).
2. Getting away for the weekend without the kids is good for the soul.

3. A big bathtub is worth the cost of a hotel room.
4. I get very cranky when beer is not readily available at events.
5. Paper bags can make a fashion statement.
6. San Francisco looks magical at night.
7. Cold weather in July is refreshing.
8. Walking can be fun.

9. Making new friends is awesome.
10. Time with soul sisters is worth the cost of admission.

BlogHer Best Shot

2008-07-20T18:00:00.000-07:00

How can I possibly choose one shot from such an incredible weekend. So much love, support, encouragement, empowerment; words could never express it. But a shot like this one does say a lot about it feels when you can bask in a big beautiful dose of soul sisterhood.

Do you have a shot that says something about what's been happening in your life? Share your joy.

Sister Symbols

2008-07-16T08:20:00.000-07:00

Have you seen what we've got clickin' at Shutter Sisters?
Baubles , Blurb books and BlogHer!

Needless to say I guess but I'm...

See you there!

Rockin' Best Shot Monday

2008-07-13T20:52:00.001-07:00

Well, we are back from our summer adventure. Whew. That means of course we are back home to the many luxuries we've missed (like a king size bed and a hot shower) but also those we didn't miss (like endless laundry, dirty dishes and the clean up from the great flood that happened before we left). Even still, it's great to be home.

The amazing Stephanie seems to be feeling the same way and shared it in this little gem over at Shutter Sisters. Her post prompted my Best Shot for this week as it's the perfect example of the earth's currency. There's nothing more endearing than to have your child discover one of nature's treasures.

It was along the dirt road on the way to the frog pond that my youngest unearthed this beauty she has since dubbed The Spud Rock (for obvious reasons). That rock came along on the rest of our vacation with us. It even crossed the border into Canada and back again and now it's taken it's rightful place on my daughter's bedroom dresser.

What sorts of treasures have you captured this week? Do share. And welcome back...I missed you.

Fishing for my Best Shot Monday

2008-07-07T07:07:00.000-07:00

Share your Best Shot today over at Slurping Life.

I will see you all back here next week for what I'm pretty sure will be some more photos from our vacation (which has almost come to an end). Until then, happy summer shooting.

Easy Breezy Days of Summer

2008-06-29T19:38:00.000-07:00

Well, well, there's internet access even way out here in the sticks. Who knew?

Even still, the lovely Melody is hosting Best Shot Monday for a few weeks for me so be sure to pop over there to leave your best shots of summer (or whatever else you want to share). As for me, I leave you with a BSM that shows us living it up family vacation style.

from the road

2008-06-28T20:11:00.000-07:00

Yellow Polka Dot Best Shot

2008-06-22T21:44:00.000-07:00

There's been a Parent Bloggers blog blast happening this weekend and the gist had to do with bikinis. You know, something like, the bikini: friend or foe. It's summer and all that so I guess, it is the season to fret about these matters. We'll I hate bathing suit shopping as much as the next gal, and I have even a stronger dislike for wearing them but I'll be honest, I do wear a bikini when a bathing suit is an absolute must. I'm not saying it's a great idea or anything, as a matter of fact I'm not a big swimmer so I rarely strip down to my suit even when I'm at the beach or pool so I guess not many people would even know I'm in a bikini, underneath it all. But I am.

A girlfriend of mine (with almost the exact build as me) admitted she wears one too although she wasn't sure it was such a good idea either. And here's the real kicker, she actually asked another friend if she thought she had any business wearing one, after birthing and nursing 2 kids, rounding 40 and all that. Her friend apparently didn't feel the least bit shy about replying an honest one liner; you're borderline. Which means at best, I'm borderline too.

But what's in a bathing suit really besides extra flesh that we wish we didn't have, in all the wrong places I might add? Your size is as important as your age. And from my point of view, it's not important at all. I'm 40 and I'm not freaked about it. It's a number. Just like the size or cut of my bathing suit. It's only weighty if I make it so. Pun totally intended.

Although I am the first to acknowledge a little balance in my life couldn't hurt (less work, more exercise), I'm choosing to focus less on my own bathing suit and more on my daughter's not so itsy bitsy teenie weenie...

After all, isn't the point of the bathing suit summer fun?

You know this little gem had to be my Best Shot for this sunny Monday!

Oh, and speaking of BSM, summer fun and a quest for balance, me and the fam are heading out for a few weeks. Woot! And because I am having to relinquish my control over having internet access (gasp. can't. breathe.) the wonderful Melody will be hosting Best Shot Monday over at her place Slurping Life for the next two weeks (thank you sweet Melody). That means on both June 30th and July 7th you'll be popping over there to post your BSM links. I shall return and be your gracious hostess again on July 14 with lots and lots of shots to choose from I'm sure!

Until then...show us what kind of summer fun you've been having this week (bikini or not).

This post was written for Parent Bloggers Network as part of a sweepstakes sponsored by BOCA.

My Best Shot at Slowing Down

2008-06-16T07:07:00.000-07:00

I woke up this morning with a start. Gasp! What day is it? It's Monday, isn't it?

We've had quite the eventful week and I so wanted to write about all of the spinning and swirling mommy emotions that have been flooding my head and my heart but alas, besides a birthday, and a promotion ceremony (my baby has been promoted to middle school) we had a different kind of flood. The laundry room spilled over with so much water from the defunct washing machine that it's damaged our wood flooring AND it got the wall so wet that all of our cabinets actually fell off the wall. Big, heavy cabinets. Right onto our washer and dryer. Big huge crashing sound. Not pretty. And certainly not good timing. Happy Father's Day.

It's hard to focus on the light at the end of this tunnel because I'm not sure how many miles down the road it is but I know we'll get there eventually. This too shall pass my Grandma reminds me. She's right. And it could be worse. As we still have some wrapping up to do before all of the end of the school year hullabaloo starts to settle down it feels so hectic around here, it's hard to keep my head about me. Deep cleansing breath. I will look back on all of this and laugh, right?

Although I have hundreds of photos on a number of compact flash cards all over the house and videos galore from the recent pomp and circumstance(s) -we got a new video camera-yay!-I have yet to get any of them to my computer. However, in the midst of the chaos, I thought it might be nice to share a photo or two that speak more of slowing down and being mindful of what is important, than anything else.

I submitted this image as well as a few others for consideration in a lovely collaborative project called my heart wanders. I was so inspired by their call for images and the project itself, I spend one afternoon in the midst of all the activities and slowed down long enough to create a handful of photographs that I really love. Truthfully, I'm just delighted to have stumbled onto my new blog crush.

So, in the theme of slowing down a bit today, I offer you this best shot for the day. If nothing else, I will be using it as a mediation of sorts to find some calm today. I know it's there somewhere. I just have to seek it out.

Did you find any time to slow down and smell the flowers this week? OR perhaps you captured the craze of life in a shot that brought perspective or maybe even humor? Whatever your week looked like, we'd love to see how you caught it in action.

My Perfectly Imperfect Best Shot Monday

2008-06-08T23:51:00.000-07:00

I thought about sharing this shot of my girlies from last week for my best shot but since today is the kick off the fantastic blog series The Gift of Imperfect Parenting at beautiful Brene Brown's blog Ordinary Courage, I figured the much more appropriate photo to share was this one.

Today I'm feeling courageous enough to show you my real life at it's craziest, it's most absurd and with all it's flaws. And you know what? I'll bet you're cool with that, aren't you? See. I knew I liked you.

As I said in you last post, I encourage you to tune in to what Brene has to share in regards to 'raising our children with courage, compassion and connection'. It's a message you don't want to miss. Be sure to pop over to her series and snap up the CD ASAP. You'll be really glad you did.

So...on that note, would you like to share your perfect pictures (or the perfectly imperfect ones if you dare) on this fine yet flawed Monday?

Imperfect is the New Perfect

2008-06-06T23:47:00.000-07:00

If you do nothing else for yourself this summer, you must get the incredible Brene Brown's brilliant CD The Gifts of Imperfect Parenting-raising children with courage, compassion and connection. I am serious here. GET. THE. CD. NOW. I promise to write more about it but for now, I wanted to at least begin to spread the word since I have a minute of internet connection at my disposal (my internet has been out for days-eeeek!)

So...why the urgency? Brene starts a series on her blog this Monday (6/9) that goes over what she covers in the CD. I don't care if you are a parent or not, you really owe it to yourself tune in. She teaches some amazing stuff. I cannot say enough about it (or couldn't you tell?) and know I'll be following along with her as the blog series unfolds. Oh, I'll be buying her book too.

You can pop over to her extraordinary blog Ordinary Courage for more details. See you over there!

Let's Click!

2008-06-03T18:52:00.000-07:00

You going to BlogHer this summer? Sweet. Me too. And check out what the Shutter Shutters are up to. It's the first ever BlogHer PhotoWalk!

So, who's into roaming the streets of San Fransico shooting photos with with a flock of what Pam calls BlogHer birds? I am, I am!

If you would like to join us, please let us know so we can look for you. Hee hee.

My Best Shot and Kate's Perfect Post

2008-06-01T15:15:00.000-07:00

Last summer my family and I traveled to Key West Florida where this shot was taken. It’s one of many that I took on the trip that only touches on the history that exists at this southernmost point. Even simple photos of the architecture give you the feeling that you are not alone there, that there is more than meets the naked eye, that those that came before accompany you with each step.

I hadn’t really reflected much on the trip until a few days ago when I was deeply stirred by a post over at SweetSalty. The photos Kate posted of her peaceful place are sacred, still, and so impossibly hopeful. The quiet calm, the whispering wind, the tranquility she captured prompted me to re-look at some of my photos from our trip.

I began to see things I hadn’t seen before as I poured over the images using her words as a guide. Her offering enlightened me and filled me with an understanding I hadn’t held before. Everything about Kate’s Perfect Post is poetry. Each word woven into the next with some sort of soul string that is beyond anything I can explain. It may be intangible (and something I cannot convey through words) but I can feel it.

The image I share today for My Best Shot is another ode to Kate. To hope and love, to the past and present and to keeping the balance of both. But most of all it's an ode to magic.

I lust so deeply for magic, I swear sometimes I can will it into existence.

These words of Kate's call to me as does the black bird perched on the fence of the ancient cemetery—singing to all of us that our mere will for magic can most certainly bring with it little miracles.

What shots do you have to share with us today and what kind of magic do they hold for you?

To see more of the Perfect Post nominees for May, go visit Lindsay at Suburban Turmoil and Kimberly at Petroville where the lists are posted.

Against All Odds

2008-05-28T21:53:00.000-07:00

The holiday weekend at surf camp just happened to be rainy, windy, and cold. In Southern California, that's pretty much unheard of and it certainly didn't make for the surfiest of adventures. None the less, the rugged landscape was breathtaking and the girls had a great time.

When I saw that Stacy's theme for the week was flowering, I could have posted any number of photos I've taken in my yard but it was this shot that I wanted to share. These tiny (yet hearty) flowers were emerging right out of the sand from under our platform tent at camp.

Despite the contrary weather conditions, these petite beauties turned their faces to the sun -when it could make it's way through the relentless clouds-full of beauty and optimism.

Rockin' It With the Rookies

2008-05-27T13:23:00.000-07:00

A few years back (has it really been that long?) I met the fabulous ladies affectionately called the Rookie Moms. Not only are they wonderful people, but they are behind a great site that offers the most clever and quip ideas for new moms ever compiled into one delightful website and corresponding blog. It’s no surprise that somebody snapped up the idea for a book.

Enter the totally adorable, very helpful and ever entertaining book for new moms, The Rookie Moms Handbook!

I have read through many of the ingenious (and humorous) activities offered on the Rookie Moms site but when I sat down with the book, I was delighted once again by these rich little mommy gems. My favorites being some of the photo projects they suggest, of course.

Take activity #236 which suggests documenting your child’s latest obsession via photos or video. You know, like eating oatmeal every single night before bed. Or is that just my kid?

Or #227 which encourages you to remember photographing babies objects of affection. Since I’ve got one bunny lover and one blankie baby, this one is near and dear to my heart. The Rookie Moms even go as far as to offer effective ways to tackle the photo challenge depending on your personality type; the sentimental or the artsy mom, the absurdist or the bad girl. Funny stuff! I am sooooo going to do some of these (and I am far from a Rookie Mom anymore).

The Rookie Mom Handbook is the perfect book for any new mom (hello baby shower gift). It’s a quick read with fantastic and funny activities to make the early years of motherhood meaningful and that much more enjoyable. And it’s written by two cool moms who have been there before and are doing it all over again.

Way to go Rookie Moms! You rock. All the cool moms think so.

Fit Photo Contest

2008-05-27T10:57:00.001-07:00

Do you think you've got a photo that fits? If not, then nows the time to get clickin'.

Pop over to Shutter Sisters for a chance to win the Wii and the Wii Fit!

Gone Baby Gone

2008-05-23T11:12:00.001-07:00

Since I am about out the door for an adventure filled holiday weekend with 12 10-year-olds at Surf Camp (yes we've had thundershowers for 24 hours now, oh joy) I thought I'd post my Best Shot Monday today! I won't be home until Monday afternoon (unless of course we get rained out) so we'll just call this a Best Shot weekend!

After reading the Parent Bloggers Blog Blast prompt, I got all weepy and nostalgic about the days when I'd take my daughters to the beach when they were babies. Sunhats and big bottomed bikinis stuffed with swim diapers are a thing of the past for this family-she says half heartbroken and half with a sigh of relief-but our beach excursions will hopefully go on and on.

Even though the chance of thunderstorms will be in effect through this holiday weekend, I am still going to post an ode to my favorite place in all the world...the beach.

May you all enjoy your weekend, whatever it may hold.