Portrait of Mom

There's a mom celebration going on that I heard about via the Parent Blogger Network. It's a little something called Portraits of Mom. There's photo sharing going on and of course, prizes. And if you're in San Francisco or Brooklyn, you can even waltz into a Windows Live studio to get a free portrait with your kids which is something all of us photo moms could really use (as we're never in the photos because we're always taking them). Be sure to read the rules because the pros aren't eligible to enter to win the prizes. I hate that when that happens.

Along with the campaign, the PBN asks us (and YOU are included in the us) to describe our portrait of mom. And timely enough Paige just shared Hand it Over at Shutter Sisters and so I couldn't help but want to share this portrait of me as mom that my talented sister took.

I love having portraits of my kids and I as seen by someone other than myself. I do shoot self-portraits (as you alredy know), but a view through someone elses lens is always refreshing.

What makes this shot especially compelling to me is that it brings to life how I feel about being a mother.

I'm in the center. I am the center. My children revolve, spin and exist around me, both in their reality and mine. Although this is changing and I already see signs of their gradual flight from our insulated, circular nest- right now, this is our life and I am still the center. And for a mother, this can as difficult as it is delightful. Being a mom means giving oneself. The hardest part for me is giving myself without losing myself. I have been vigilant (maybe to a fault at times) about holding on to me as me, beyond me as a mother. And still, now that I am a mother, they are a part of me. As I see it, they aren't separate from me but at the same time, they are. I might be talking in circles here but I have finally discovered, it isn't an either/or. It's a both.

As a mother I have become a richer, fuller me and as my girls continue to grow and change and move away from me as the center, I can only hope I too grow and change gracefully, ever becoming the best me I can be, as a mother. As myself.

Losing Sight of Love

Thursdays have become one of my favorite days. Mostly because of the Love. I have found it one of the most pleasurable pastimes now, to collect image after image of Love as I find it (or maybe more as it finds me) through my lens. Literally, figuratively, symbolically, true.

Within the last year or so of my life, I feel like I’ve hit somewhat of a stride. I’ve been contently chugging away; on track and on time, sure and steady, authentic and real. I recognize I’m evolving into the person I want to be. Softer, kinder, more gentle—to others and to myself. I’m more open, more in balance, more aware. More loving. Maybe that’s why Thursdays feel so good. I’m happy with where I’m at and where I am going.

Usually.

But there are always those days. Days like today where my peace train is jolted by an unexpected and violent derailment. My body tenses and my throat burns triggered by a raging range of emotions. The screech and spark of metal on metal permeate my very core as I try desperately to avoid the inevitable crash. To no avail, petty thoughts and past baggage pile up like boxcars jarred and jackknifed, one on top of the other, twisted and tangled.

Sometimes I forget that to be one’s best self you must pay attention and keep your eyes on the road. I am reminded, as I sit here amidst the smoldering wreckage, when you lose sight of Love, you lose your way. The road got dark and somehow I dropped the map.

With Love long gone, I slowly pick myself up, battered and bruised. The only thing I can do now is look for Grace. Grace will help me find Love. They’re old friends. And thankfully I know that they are no strangers to messes like this one. I also know they’ll help me clean things up and get back on track when I’m ready. And as that morning whistle blows, you’d better believe I’m letting Love take the wheel.



My Love Thursday photo is an ode not only to Love but to her true companion Grace.

My Sunny Best Shot Monday

You are my sunshine, my only sunshine,

You make me happy when skies are gray.

You'll never know dear how much I love you...

We're you lucky enough to capture a little sunshine this week?

Got Photo Tips?

If you're interested in gathering a few tips and tricks to add to your photo knowledge arsenal, pop over to the Hip Slope Mama blog. They asked me to offer some of my ideas over there so be sure to go check it out.

Happy Clicking.

You're on the Air

Well, actually we're on the air.
But you could be too.

All you have to do is call in to chat with Kate and I LIVE this evening from 6-6:30pm PST to Motherhood Uncensored's Blog Talk Radio show. Want more info? Click HERE.



Yay!

Edited to write: To listen to the show, see the sidebar (over there to the right) for the play button!

Breathing in My Best Shot

Still reveling in the wide open spaces of central California, I wanted to share another photo with you from the other weekend. We took walk after walk through fields of mustard and tall grasses, breathing in the clean cool air of the vastness that surrounded us. Sigh.

I said it was heaven, right?

What little slice of heaven do you have to share this week?

Getting Our Spring On

Taking into consideration the obvious theme of many recent photos and various posts on the subject, I guess it goes without saying that I love the promise of early spring. With the beauty of every blossom I am inspired; each new bloom, each tender bud, each tiny revealing of color emerging from sleepy green stalks and woody branches.

My girls and I have been enjoying discovery walks, photo excursions and crafty afternoons all in honor of spring’s arrival. About a month ago we began working on a collaborative project we're calling The First of Spring. It’s a mix of photos, paintings, leave rubbings, words, and even a super-springy poem (courtesy of my 10-year-old). As the finishing touch we bound the pages in an HP Photo Book to have something to commemorate our celebration and creative burst.

Sharing my camera with my kids is a given. Yes, I’m one of those moms that hands over the big, heavy, expensive SRL to my kids and let them have at it. They were definitely excited to take photos for our project. But what added to the fun was the painting and the writing that we added to embellish the book and make it a true mixed media-scrap book kind of thing. The do-it-yourself-book binding worked perfectly with all of the elements (to my delight) because the binding opens easily and pinches closed to hold all the goodies together. I think I might even have the kids paint on the cover (it's linen) as an added touch.

Because more than anything, I suppose I’m gushing over my children's enthusiasm and creativity, I wanted to share some photos of our process (like the one I shared over at the April Snapshot at HP) as well as the spring poem my daughter wrote for the book. If you can't read the poem, feel free to pop over to the original collage created at Tabblo. Adorable!

Perhaps this inspires you and your kids to get busy as bees this month in celebration of the good green earth. Feel free to share your ideas and links to your own projects here in the comments.

Happy Creating!

For more photographic inspiration visit Shutter Sisters.

New Places, Friendly Faces

I spent an incredible weekend with some great friends just north of Santa Barbara. There were hills to roam, animals to befriend and lots of wine to drink. OK, in my case it was beer but you get the picture. It was pretty close to heaven on earth.





How about you? Any new places or friendly faces you'd like to share on this fine Monday?

In Honor of a Perfect Post

I got the reminder that the Perfect Post Awards were coming up on the same day that Jen Lemen posted this gem at Shutter Sisters. Seriously, how could I not nominate it? Everything about her post is indeed perfect.

The photo alone is brilliantly captured; the image of her father’s hands speaks volumes on its own. But then Jen, in her magical way coupled it with a story that reached down and stole my heart right out from my chest.

As she celebrates her own father, I am reminded of my own. Of what makes him unique. Of what I so deeply love and appreciate about him. I am taken back to my childhood and it seems that the uncertain times, the struggles have become somewhat of a blur however, there is clarity in how he loved me…how he still does love me. That’s all that matters. Everything that came from the past has only helped to build the foundation of mutual admiration and tenderness that we stand on today. I love him so very much.

And then I think of my husband—the father of my children and how steadfast and unwavering he is in his love for them and I melt into a big sopping puddle—part little girl, part mother, part wife and I am so grateful that Jen, through the brilliance of the written word and a single photograph coaxed me into feeling all of this intense, rich gratitude today.

Be sure to visit Suburban Turmoil and Petroville for the rest of the Awardees and lots of linky love.

My Best Shot at Truthiness

Have you happened upon Sweetney's Truthiness gig? It all began with this post where she announced the Flickr group which triggered a whole movement of sorts and I've been intrigued ever since.

So, in the spirit of what another blonde, blue-eyed Tracey started, I offer nothing glamorous today, just me FIRST thing in the morning (pre-coffee no less) at my Truthiest.




If you have played along already I hope you'll leave a link to your Truthiness shot as well as whatever else that's true to you for your Best Shot Monday today. And, if you haven't shot the real you self-portrait yet, consider this a nudge to join in and reveal your Truth.

Good Morning Monday!

Enchanted

Year after year I have watched in reverie as Spring performs her annual show and somehow I am always astounded and delighted as if I had never seen it before.

Stroll & Savor

My girls and I took a long walk on Saturday evening. The three of us began with two magnifying glasses, two treasure collecting baskets and one trusty macro lens, as we ventured to discover the small wonders that Spring is awakening around our neighborhood.

Although there were many great shots of buds, bugs and blossoms, when my oldest snapped a few of me and my youngest, I knew I would be smitten. These kinds of shots remind me of how good life can be when I slow down and enjoy it, just as it is.

So, here's my Best Shot Monday (not really my shot at all but my uber-talented 10-year-olds). It's an ode to a weekend of family time and a celebration of the season. And I'd like to take that a step further and ask that you take all the Easter hope and gladness into your heart and hold it there as you read Jen Lemen's Prayer for Jenni Ballantyne. When a mother is going through what she is going through and is still brimming with love and radiating such beauty, you can't help but be inspired. She is amazing. And right about now, she could use some extra support.

Share your photos of family and love with us today as we celebrate what matters most.

Me Me Me

As I was digging around looking for a photo for Love Thursday, I read Stacy's Theme Thursday for the week and thought, hey, I love self-portraits as much as the next guy...why not head outside and click off a few? The one above is a crop of some I decided to shoot for my Love Thursday pic.

And then I figured I'd include a little list of weird things about me because I was tagged by Brown Eyed Mama for the meme. What fun! I haven't done one in a really long time so I thought I'd give it a go. Come to think of it, I may have done one like it a long time ago. Oh well, I need something to do to keep me busy while I am putting off all the stuff on my to-do list.

1. I have been taking self-portraits since I was in college.
2. I hate when my feet feel dirty.
3. I love The Grateful Dead.
4. I'm totally into self-help books (of the ethereal kind).
5. Hamburgers are my favorite food.
6. I usually learn best (although perhaps not efficiently) by making stuff up as I go along.
7. 75% of the time I shoot with my camera on automatic. And no, I don't consider it cheating.

These might not be too enthralling but 'weird' stuff isn't that easy to see in yourself. Maybe I should have asked my family to make a list for me. Or maybe not.

And to keep the meme rolling....I tag

Melody (Slurping Life)
Melody A. (the Hip Momma's Journal)
Jessica (Moving Pictures)
Sarah-Ji (shutterbug mama)
SusieJ


and I think you should have to add a self-portrait, just for fun! Melody already did one today which I might add looks a lot like mine. Too cool. Great minds Melody.

OK, I think I'm supposed to add myself to the list and have you do the same. So here it is-

The Strategist Notebook ~ Link Addiction ~ Ardour of the Heart ~ When Life Becomes a Book ~ The Malaysian Life ~ Yogatta.com ~ What goes under the sun ~ Roshidan’s Cyber Station ~ Sasha says ~ Arts of Physics ~ And the legend lives ~ My View, My Life ~ A Simple Life ~ Juliana RW ~ Mom Knows Everything ~ Beth & Cory’s Mom ~ A Mind Forever Voyaging~ enjoying the ride ~ Jennifer’s thoughts ~ Mom of 3 Girls ~ Amanda ~ Don’t Make Me Get The Flying Monkeys ~ ExPat Mom ~ Just Jessie ~ Wilson Six ~Krisitn ~ Nuttier Than You ~ Shonnte ~ Summer’s Nook ~ Laura Williams Musings ~ Sher ~ Shanda ~ Seven QTPies ~ Mel ~ Skittles ~ Lady Banana ~ Momhood Moments ~ Business Mars ~ A Simple life ~ moms….. check nyo ~ Mommy’s Little Corner ~ Pampered ~ HappyHeart ~ Make Every Day Your Lucky Day ~ Thumbelina Creations ~ Ivonnardona's Creations ~ Jewellery Craft ~ A Bead a Day~ Useless Ramblings ~Candid Yammering ~ Green Eyed Mama ~ Mother May I ~


And hey, anyone else who wants to play along, I tag you too!

Sisters (of the soul kind)

I feel grateful that I got to spend much of my Saturday with these ladies. It's amazing what a little girl time can do. Photo courtesy of my self-timer.

This is exactly what I needed to nourish my soul this weekend.

Here's to hoping you've gotten some soul food recently too...perhaps your Best Shot will tell?

A Mother's Metamorphosis

It’s no mystery that in the past few weeks there has been some touch and go moments on the motherhood home front around here. Although I haven't exactly explained it, I think my images have done the talking for me. It's been difficult to put my finger on but I can say that it hasn't been comfortable. Just when you think you’ve hit your stride, one or both of your kids will slide into some new phase and you’re caught not looking and loose your balance. Sometimes you’re left reeling only to struggle to regain composure while other times you find yourself flat on your face. You’re nodding your heads aren’t you?

In my case, for this go round at least, I think it’s time to shed some old skin I haven’t been ready to let go of yet. It makes me emotional just thinking about it. I’m not being the best mom I can be and I know better than anyone that it’s time I take some strides forward. Big ones. And as I do, I must leave what’s not working behind me. That should feel good. And I’m sure it will. But it also means forging into new, unfamiliar territory and that can be terrifying.

So, as I gather my courage to press on, I am slowly seeing my girls, my incredible daughters, for who they are, not for who I think they should be. Wow. That’s a doosie. Even in our toughest moments when we lock horns, face off, stare each other down, I know I am looking square into their strengths, and even more intimidating their individuality. They are who they are and they are not me. And thankfully, they will never be me. They will never be anyone but themselves. It may sound simple and obvious but the truth is that it feels huge to see it now with my own eyes and feel it with my own heart, that everything they are becoming is unto themselves and not unto me. That I am feeling so melancholy and even conflicted through it all must mean that I am experiencing a pretty significant motherhood rite of passage.

I am reading a book called Your Child's Strengths: Discover Them, Develop Them, Use Them by Jenifer Fox (provided by the Parent Bloggers Network) which has pretty much sparked an inferno of epiphanies for me. Although I tend to poke around books and take from them what I feel I need to learn-that’s one of my strengths I guess-by reading through the pages of the book, I have been inspired to better appreciate my girls for who they are. I want to learn how to focus on their strengths and discover the innate, unique gifts they carry, savoring both the sweet and salty of what they bring to the banquet table of life. It just might be the biggest challenge to date but I know it’s worth any discomfort I feel as I stretch from this tight motherhood cocoon into a lovely winged creature with the grace and courage enough to share the endless sky with my butterfly girls.

Do you have a shot to share today that makes your heart want to take flight?

Say Cheese

Happy Love Thursday.

My Best Shot of Me (behind the camera, of course)

Recently, I was asked to shoot a self-portrait for a project that a good friend is working on. Although this shot isn't the one I gave her, it is one of my favorites from my little self-portrait session. I love off beat the texture in the shot (see noise all on the right side of the image). The trick? I shot it into a beloved antique mirror. The age of the glass can be seen in the photo and was nicely highlighted by the sunlight beaming in. It gives it kind of a funky nostalgic feel.



I think I like it mostly because I've been feeling a little funky lately...like maybe I'm going through my own little personal growth spurt. Those can be kinda weird. Good, but weird. This shot conveys the strangeness I have been feeling; a little melancholy, a little blue and a lot moody. I'll get through it, I always do. But for now. I have to just sit with the funkiness, reflect on it and then bid it 'good day'.

All that just to ask you, what kind of reflection does your best shot offer today?

Not Just Another Pretty Sunset

Today is Love Thursday at Shutter Sisters and I have had my photo ready since last week! But before I posted it here, I read Karen's post and it stirred up a recent memory worth sharing. Again, tying in The Land of Ka's Theme, Memory- talk about synchronicity.

A few weeks ago on my way to scoop up my daughters from Grandma's house, the sunset beckoned me to to pull my car over to admire it's blaze (yes, this luxury is exactly why I choose to live on the Pacific Ocean). I had my camera with me too--imagine that!

As I sat there enjoying the last sweet moments of the day, two young boys raced up to the fence down the way from me. Their Dad soon followed. As the sun was sharing it's tiniest last light, the boys were listening to their big teddy bear of a Dad call out to the sun, "Good-bye Mr. Sun!"
The boys echoed his words. And then he said something that will always stay with me...

"Thank you for the day Mr. Sun!"

And the boys, learning an invaluable lesson of love and gratitude sang back together, "Thank you for the day!"

The sun bowed in appreciation and then quickly melted as did my heart.

Rainy Days and Mondays

Let's just say some days are better than others. Such is life as a parent. With all the wonder and magic that a 4-year-old can bring, the flip side can be brutal. I feel tested beyond my limits as a mother. It's emotional and exhausting.

Something about this photo says it all. And then some. I take a little comfort knowing that one day I will look back at all of this and laugh. Or cry.

What sentiment does your best shot stir up?

One Tween for Two Themes

Since I'm totally obsessed with textures, I was thrilled that Theme Thursday at The Land of Ka was, what else, textures. Yay! And let me tell you, she's posted a great tutorial on the subject over there too.

And then of course I read Karen's Love Thursday post at Shutter Sisters and it stirred up so much motherly love within me that I couldn't resist sharing a recent shot of my oldest daughter for Love Thursday. And I thought I'd give it a little extra love and attention with one of NinianLifs textures. NinianLifs got some incredible stuff to play with.

So, as Karen's story runs through my head, I offer this image of my blossoming tween and I am recalling a day back when she was 18 months old when for a split second I thought I might lose her (long, exhausting story). That memory alone is all it takes to flood me with gratitude, appreciation, joy, and love love love for her and everything her independent adolescent attitude can dish up.



Just a little dose of motherhood perspective and it's all good. It's all good.

Bloomin' Best Shot Monday

Lately, I have been longing for color. I don't know how else to say it. It's just that simple.

I do appreciate this time of year when living things go dormant, hiding themselves as they prepare for their grand re-entry into the warmth but I am finding myself in need of a bright vibrant splash of life-of true color in all it's glory.

I was going to buy myself some flowers but I waited until Valentine's Day in hopes that I would get something colorful. I was lucky enough to receive beautiful, deep red roses but still...the ache. What I need is the outdoors to begin the slow and steady revealing of spring's bounty.

And just in time, the little signs have started. And I have had to do nothing to bring it about but sit and wait. I'm giddy. Spring will be here before we know it.



Can you feel it?

Have any of the shots you captured lately left you giddy, feeling like hope is restored and that everything is as it should be?

Wake Up Call

Happy Best Shot Monday!

On most mornings when I am shuffling around, trying to get out of the house to start the daily rounds, my girls run ahead to decorate the car windows with messages and pictures.



I wanted to share this with you today because I found it especially charming!

So...what shot brightens your day?

Hey Mom! Happy Birthday. Hope you have a HAPPY day. : )

Froose

My youngest daughter is a juice kid. I know, I know. It's not good to give kids too much juice. Even still, she loooooves her juice. And since she's a bit of a "sugar-hound", I have had my work cut out for me as far as the daily battle of getting her to eat right. ANY new product I come across that might make my plight a little easier is worth a try.

Enter Froose; the innovative new beverage for children that combines the best of organic whole grains and fruit to make a delicious and nutritious alternative to juice that is naturally low in sugar and a good source of fiber. Now, that's what I'm talking about.



If you're like me, you'll be happy to know that Froose is packaged in the ever convenient and oh-so-alluring jucie box-- environmentally friendly aseptic juice boxes to be exact. Coooool. That means, my daughter is getting the goods but she feels like she's getting a special treat too. And she is! Froose is a special treat. It goes way beyond just juice as it's made with whole grains and is sweetened with 100% fruit concentrates and organic brown rice syrup. This is the part about it that I LOVE..."Organic brown rice syrup is a very nutritive sweetener and delivers mainly complex carbohydrates rather than simple sugars. The combination of organic whole grains and brown rice syrup help prevent 'sugar spikes' often associated with fruit juices". Who knew? I sure didn't, but I am sure glad I do now.

Needless to say, Froose is a big hit with me and my four-year-old. I'm relieved that it got her seal of approval. My ten-year-old was excited to check it out too but the texture did not float her boat. You gotta figure that if you've got a beverage that's full of all that good stuff, it's not going to be a thin juice...it's going to be more like a smoothie. So, a word to those with older, more finicky children--when you give it a try, just bill it as a smoothie and you'll be good to go. The beauty of having a drink that packs a nutricious punch like this is that can be a snack in it's own right and I feel good about that.

I'm delighted to know that someone is finally offering a healthy drink alternative for our kids. Three cheers for Froose.

Edited to add--This review was written for MomCentral.

Love and Loss (almost)

We almost lost her today. Almost.

We've spent eighteen years together. That's a long time to have a cat like companion as a part of your everyday life. And a lot of Love. When she does have to leave us, we will miss her terribly. Just like we miss her mother and her sister. I felt that ache of loss today and it hurts.

I will be spending this Love Thursday loving a big black cat like there's no tomorrow.

Got Dirt?

There's a CleanWell photo contest going on at Shutter Sisters!



It's a dirty world. Go out and enjoy it.

Take lots of pictures.

And enter the contest!

Monday's Gifts

The other night while sitting at a bountiful table of full glasses, incredible women and glowing candles I helped celebrate a dear friend’s birthday. While thoroughly enjoying the camaraderie and lively conversation I was reminded that love and kindness come in many shapes and sizes. This particular evening they came in the form of twinkle lights and paper flowers. And birthday cake. But it was the vision of all the delicate flowers that has lingered. Handmade by one of the talented and generous women there, each flower bloomed out of love. I covet the one I brought home as it allows me to relive an evening cloaked in the beauty of caring.



Although perhaps a little less poetic, sometimes kindness can come in the shape of palm sized pink rectangles. I hope that the very deserving children who receive the DS Lites from Nintendo will feel that they are cared for. I know it takes more than a gift but a little extra something special can be a bright spot. Although I had at first planned on sharing details and links about these kids, I thought better of it and felt that discretion felt a little more appropriate The stories that you so bravely shared were intimate enough to just hold close. But, I will tell you though that the gifts went to very good homes. Thank you all so much for participating. I wish I had a truckload of DS Lites to give away as every one of the children you shared with me IS deserving and worthy. That is for sure. So, again, thank you.

And in the spirit of all things bright and beautiful, let me ask you, what shape does your Best Shot take this week?

Monday...

...enough said.

What picture can talk for you today?

It Must Be Love

Oh baby, I have been waiting for this for weeks!

Lessons of a Launch

I've learned things in this process that I never thought I'd need to know; like it takes time for the remapping of urls to kick in (hence the reason why Shutter Sisters doesn't appear to be live). I've learned things that I'm happy to know--like some html code (which is really cool and all consuming). I've learned things I forgot I knew; like how trying to juggle the family on a holiday weekend while working doesn't mix. And I've learned that having an incredible amount of support around me (hello internet friends!) makes certain set backs a little easier to handle.

My sister always reminds me that these things are hiccups not face plants and someone else said something similar in an email last night when the panic began to kick in. So, although we are ready to open the doors to Shutter Sisters, the url isn't cooperating just yet. However because I just can't wait for that, I am going to invite you to visit anyway and offer this link which will work!

www.shuttersisters.squarespace.com

Keep in mind that the registration process on the blog won't work until the url kicks in (or so they say) but at least you can take a look around and see what we've I've been cooking up for quite some time now.

I can't wait to hear your feedback--she says nervously. Be gentle with me...it's still early on the west coast.

My 'Shutter Sisters' Shot Monday

It's almost launch time for Shutter Sisters! Tomorrow...we're launching tomorrow!

As you can imagine I am bursting at the seams. I can't wait to hear what you all think!

So, what shots got you excited today?

A Giveaway with Heart

Finally, the "story" that I mentioned in my last post. Ready?

OK. At this point, everyone knows I’m wild for Nintendo. My family loves the Wii, of course. And my girls have the DS Lite handheld numbers as well. More love. You’ve seen pictures and have heard stories already I know, but wait…there’s more.

Right before Christmas Nintendo threw my daughter and a bunch her friends an all girl, Dazzling Pokemon Spa Party. I know what you are thinking. How can Pokemon and Spa be used in the same sentence? Well, the answer to that makes perfect sense if you think about it from a clever marketing perspective. When gather a gaggle of 10-year-old girls together, hand them Pink DS Lites pre-loaded with dazzling games to play (the Pearl and the Diamond versions of Pokemon), sit them down comfortably on a big sofa and give them sparkle hair dos and ice cream pedicures well, then you‘ve got yourself a houseful of very happy (not to mention busy and beautiful) little girls. The moms we’re not overlooked either, oh no! We were encouraged to slip away to a quiet upstairs bedroom for a chair massage. Hello! Talk about needing to decompress--it was only a few days before Christmas so a little relaxation was welcomed, to say the least. The party was over the top awesome and everyone undisputedly had a blast.

The festivities of the evening were beyond generous enough but it gets better: Nintendo left us with an enormous goody bag full of party favors. And guess what I get to do with it? I get to GIVE AWAY THE GOODS!

So, here’s the deal—I’ve got a few Pink Pearl DS Lite systems and a handful and Pokemon games (some Diamond some Pearl) to give away and I would like you to help me put these gifts into the hands of kids that could really use them. In other words, this is not your ordinary random giveaway--this is more like a Random Act of Kindness Giveaway. I love the sound of that. I’m sure that there a whole lot of super kids out there that could use a little Nintendo glow to make their day! If we put our collective mother heads and hearts together we can make this giveaway count.

If you know of a child that would really benefit from some kindness, some distraction, some playtime, some generosity, some fun, please let me know. Of course, you are encouraged to post comments here and if you feel you have a worthy candidate for the Nintendo Kindness Giveaway, you can email me with the details at maypapers at yahoo dot com and put Kindness Giveaway in the subject line. The object would be to get these kids the games in time for Valentines Day because, it just seems fitting. And by all means spread the word because everyone loves a good giveaway and kindness is a good thing.

edited to add--

Thanks Jen Lemen for being an inspiration and a catalyst for kindness.

Happy Together

There's a story that goes along with my Best Shot Monday but I think I'll wait to share it until later this week. For right now, I want to enjoy it, just as it is.

What shot did you enjoy this week?

And Photo Justice for All

Most photographers are somewhat protective of their images. And they should be. If you shoot it, the image belongs to you and no one else should be using that image for anything without asking. There are exceptions to the rule but for the sake of simplicity, I won’t go there.

Now, let's say you are not only someone who takes a lot of pictures but you're also a parent. Suddenly, the word protection can be written in all caps and followed by at least three exclaimation points. We photo parents are not only worried about protecting our images (our creative work and for some of us, our livelihood) but now we’re dealing with a subject that is far more important; our children. It doesn’t matter whether you post photos of your kids online without much worry or concern or you covet your family photos never daring to risk the wrong person seeing or stealing them (and therefore opt not to post them publicly), we all want to protect our children. There’s no debate there. Just like the million other judgment calls we face every day (what food to feed our kids, what bedtime to keep, how much TV is too much) ‘to share or not to share’ is a choice every parent has to make for themselves and their families. And, for the record, I’m asking that we not judge one another on our decisions, kay? I’m nipping that baby in the bud right now. Instead, let’s band together and empower one another by putting our collective (and creative) heads together here and hammer out some workable solutions to this universal issue.

After a number of emails from concerned moms asking ‘should they or shouldn’t they’ and reading posts addressing the topic, I have intended to tackle the subject myself many times. I just hadn't gotten around to it. But, when I got the query from the supermoms of The League of Maternal Justice, asking me for my thoughts on the matter and my take on any solutions, I decided the time is now. They'd like to compile some insights regarding the photo sharing concerns of moms and even more importantly offer some good advice of ways we can protect ourselves and our photos. We're talking insights, tips and tools for moms from moms. We’re all in this together, so why not demystify what’s going on through some discussion, shall we?

I realize that neither talking nor implementing all the safety precautions in the world can give us any guarantees (just as locking our front door doesn’t mean no one can break in) but I believe we are all better off arming ourselves with knowledge. Let’s uncover and discover what it is we can do as mothers to ensure to the best of our abilities that the photos we choose to share of our children remain safe.

I hope to hear your thoughts on the matter; your stories, your concerns and what you are doing (if anything) to combat the risk of having your photos used without permission, blatantly misused and/or stolen. Do you choose to share your photos online? What service(s) do you use and why? Do you tag your images? What kinds of photos do you share and what is off-limits? Do you use copyright notices, watermarks, shrink wrapping, or any other tricks you can enlighten us with?

OK, it’s up to all of you, my fellow mama lions…let me hear you roar!

*the photo above is my submission for Theme Thursday (contrast) at Stacy's.

Reflecting on my Best Shot

As our winter vacation comes to an end and Monday marks the beginning of the normal daily routine, I'm reflecting on the past few weeks and acknowledge that the Clark family had a really nice holiday. No drama and even better, no illness. That's huge! We also managed to cram in all sorts of very cool activities (without it feeling frenetic) and even enjoyed a few nights of grown-up time while the kids lived it up at the Grandparent's. All in all, it was a stellar vacation.

I tucked my girls in early tonight and already I hear the deep dreamy breathing of children exhausted from a fantastic two week break from the daily hustle and bustle of school, piano, ballet, homework, volleyball, hula and girl scouts. No doubt we will all wake tomorrow bleary eyed and one step behind as we stumble back into the daily grind but I for one can't wait to get my time back.

Big grateful exhale.

My Best Shot this week is one from the many great places we visited. There's just something about this photo that I love. How about you? Have you had a chance to reflect on your holiday? Would you care to share a shot or two? Come on, you know you do.

Greetings from Paris

As far as having a Happy New Year I can say, so far, so good.

I'm calling this one 'scarf, stripes and Stella'.

Paris for lunch and then to Monte Carlo for Dinner.

Tom and Katie have nothing on us...except maybe their own private jet. Do they have one of those?

Regardless, here's to livin' large in 2008!

The Key to My Best Shot

I'm excited to say that above and beyond working on Shutter Sisters (due to launch Jan 21st-yay!) I've been transferring the archives from Picture This to a new and improved blog site. Oh baby. Good times. I will be unveiling the spruced up version of Mother May I soon after the New Year. Yikes, that's like in a few days.

I'm taking this time of transition to make all the changes my little heart desires. That's the key to keeping it fun, interesting and creatively inspiring for myself (and hopefully for you too).

I have been poking around and playing at SquareSpace and I can say that I am loving it. I figure if people like Krystyn, Maile and Irene are using it, it must be pretty great. They offer a free 30 day trail so you can try it on for size before you buy. Very cool. Just thought I'd mention it. I find SquareSpace to be a refreshing change from Blogger, that's for sure. And transferring posts from a different platform has been a breeze. Really. Just thought I'd mention it, just in case you needed a little nudge.

And I also wanted to mention how much I appreciate you trying to get the new BSM button onto your blogs and I know there's been all sorts of issues. Arg. I feel your pain. I think, since I am refurbishing, I will wait and give you the code when I get things all finalized at SquareSpace, kay??

Now that that's all settled, let's get on with our Monday (which I realize I posted on Sunday).

What is the key to your Best Shot as we say farewell to 2007?

Home Sweet Home (on the Range)

I hope the day brought you all your heart desired.

Best Shot Monday & Holiday Salutations

Welcome to the very first Best Shot Monday hosted at Mother May I. I appreciate your willingness to come on over! I've even created a bright and shiny new button commemorating the event. Yay!



I know it's Christmas eve and everyone is busy with the festivities of the season but I am giddy to post something holidayish. After all, it's not everyday you see Santa taking flight! Thanks for indulging me and joining in the fun.



Would you like to share a little holiday cheer?

*****************
If you've got a Best Shot Monday badge on your blog, I'd love it if you'd replace it with the new one. And don't forget to link it back to this blog; BSM's new and proper home. Thanks!

Closed Door, Open Window

As you might already know, I have said my good-byes at Picture This on ClubMom. Sniff sniff. But before I left I handed off the Thursday's Themes to Stacy at The Land of Ka.

The theme this week was WINDOW which I thought was fab as I am a big fan of window light of almost any kind. Plus, I can't help but think of that quote about one closing door could mean an open window or something like that. However it goes, I like the meaning behind it as it feels appropriate right now.

This photo came to mind instantly. I love the backlight flair and I love my girl in her jammies. I'm a day late (is it Friday already?)but hey, better late than never I always say. To see other interpretations on the theme pop over to The Land of Ka.

See you Monday for Best Shot Monday, kay?

The Nintendo Glow (Holiday Gift Ideas, Round 2)

It’s no secret than in just over a year my family has gone from non-gamers to total gamers. Nintendo gamers that is. I wouldn’t have believed it if you’d have told me that last September before we hosted our Wii party. No way. I did not expect to be won over--but I have been, by not only the folks behind Nintendo but by the products! The Wii has been a welcome addition to our family since we got it last Christmas. We still have regular family bowling or golf tourneys in our living room. No kidding. Unfortunately, the Wii is hard to come by again this year so I won’t be talking it up anymore. At least for now. I did however want to preface this post with a little bit of our Nintendo story.

One Nintendo product that is readily available this season (YAY!) is the DS Lite. Love, love, love it. I had never even heard of a DS before we were gifted a few last year (one for each of our girls) and now, I cannot imagine life with out these little wonders. I know, it’s so dramatic, like when people were like “you don’t have a cell phone? How could you live without a cell phone?” Yes, I was a cell phone hold out and was probably the last person in the free world to get one. Well, although the DS might not be as crucial to everyday life as a cell phone, when it comes to having the perfect babysitter at your disposal anytime of the day or night, it’s a close second. Not to mention it’s a lot more fun than a phone and no matter how long the kids are on it, there’s no cost for additional minutes. That’s saying something. Yes, I believe in electronic babysitters for my children. At least I know that when I’m on an important business call the only sound I’ll hear are the adorable little sound effects from the DS Lites.

Though I knew my oldest daughter would be able to play the handheld game with no problem, I was a bit concerned that my youngest might struggle. But, there was no point trying to keep it from her as anyone who has 2 kids knows, what the older one has, the younger one wants, no matter what it is. So for those first few months she just had fun scratching notes and sending them to her sister. Happy faces, hearts and the like. I know, how cool is it that you can play back and forth between 2 DSs?

And then we found Cooking Mama (thanks to a helpful gal at the EB Games)! I shop at game stores now—huh? It ended up being a perfect game for her even at the ripe age of 3 ½ and she’s still loving it a year later. And her sister does too.

What was not available back then was a fab game for the younger set but alas! Now there is Smart Girl's Playhouse which is a delightful game for the DS that really is meant for young ones. We just got it and she really enjoys it. They also offer Smart Boy's Gameroom for the boys in your life. The graphics are adorable and the variety of games is ample and perfectly age appropriate for little gamers-- challenging enough to keep busy minds occupied and simple enough to keep busy hands well, busy. Since many of you have little choice but to get the younger sibling a DS, now you know there is a game that is suitable for the age.

As far as the older kids go, well, I only have girls so I’m not sure what a favorite pick for the boys would be but for my 10-year old daughter it’s got to be Nintendogs, hands, er, paws down. Even I think it’s totally cool. There is a lot of reading involved, just so you know and although there are features that can be used (and figured out) without reading, a non reading gamer will need some help with it. It even takes the feature of playing between tow sets to a whole new level. Once we were at the post office waiting for over and hour for our Passports and my kids and 2 little boys who were also waiting played Nintendogs between each other (they had it too). They had a doggie playdate, traded dogs, and had a regular dog party while passing the time. That’s what I mean when I say babysitter.

So, what’s on the Christmas List this year? Mario Party DS and Cooking Mama 2 (dinner with friends) and I know those are 2 gifts that are going give back all year long!

Thank you, you cute little DS Lites. I love you.

Holiday Gift Idea, Round One

Since it's that time of year when we are all scurrying around trying to figure out what to get for out kids, I thought it was a great time to post some ideas for your little photographers. Actually, I only have one camera I am reviewing today for The Parent Blogger Network but hey, one is better than none, right?

Discovery Kids is offering what they are calling the Slide and Shoot Digital Camera. It looks more like a little cell phone than a camera which is probably why my daughter is wild for it. She has yet to get her own phone so anything that even looks like a phone is cool with her. The other plus is the slide feature that gives the camera a spy gadget sensibility. Yet another design perk. My daughter has been taking it everywhere with her, hidden in her purse and pulling it out kamikaze style-- shooting pix of everyone and everything in her path--the hockey rink, her sister brushing her teeth, the shrimp scampi. I think it makes her feel sneaky. And the LCD screen is cool! Small but efficient enough so that you know what you are shooting (no holding up to eye necessary) which is ideal for a stealthy photo spy. Needless to say, it's been a hit.

Now, as far as the nuts and bolts go, it produces the kind of low rez images you would expect from a tiny toy camera. Even the highest resolution setting will only give you an image that will print to 4X6 (barely). I'm not complaining really, I mean, I can't imagine we would want to print anything larger than that anyway. Plus, the upside to the small size is that they are easily shared via email or, um, in a blog post. Ahem.

So, what about the quality of the images? They look great when taken in ideal light situations. By ideal I mean bright light. It's when you're shooting indoors (low light) that you're going to get lots of grain. But like I said over at Picture This this morning, I don't really mind grain much. Especially for play pix. Still, I know some people aren't that forgiving but keep in mind, when you shoot in low light settings you're going to get more grain (or noise) with almost any digital camera. The cheaper the camera, usually the worse it can be so I'm not sure I would use that in a case against this particular camera.



Exhibit A- Outdoor shots look great. This was even taken in the shade and it's pretty impressive for a "toy" camera.



Exhibit B- Indoor (low light) and grainy, or er, artsy.

The camera comes with the easy to use photo uploading software (YAY!) and simple editing software to use with your pix once they are on your computer BUT...when I say simple, I mean simple as in basic. As in maybe a little too basic. I dunno, maybe it's because my kids a photographer's daughter but neither one of us felt compelled to use the editing tools or even the artwork (borders, etc) to adorn her pix. Yawn. And there are no options for true editing anyway except for cropping or red eye removal. Let me put it to you this way, there is no flash on this camera hence you'll never even get a chance to use the red-eye feature. Just a little something I noticed. Still, with that said, my daughter interrupted my complaining with her high drama, tween urgency voice, "Mom, I don't care about the editing tools, that stuff doesn't matter to me. You had better give this a good review and say that I love this camera because I do!" And I think she even referred to it as her baby. More than once. Huh?

I'm thinkin' that's all that needs to be said.

Oh, and that even though I only am reviewing one camera today, I saw a pretty cool little kid camera review round up over at AlphaMom for even your littlest of shutterbugs.

Spreading the Good Word

Everyone seems to be Babbling about JOY!

And with kid's jerseys that declare messages like Joy, Compassion, Humility and Courage, why wouldn't they be?

What's Your Focus?

Have you heard about the Mama Focus photo contest?






It's not too late to enter your best shot of...you. Come on, let's see it. It's about time something is about us Moms for a change, don't you think?

****************

AND THE WINNERS ARE...

Wii Made it to Oprah

Have you read the latest Oprah from cover to cover yet? Did you see Wii, er, me?




OK, so it might not be quite as glamorous as it seems but being in Oprah Mag is being in Oprah Mag any which way you look at it. At least that's the way I choose to look at it. And this is actually the second time. Yep. I had a letter to the editor published once. Boy, I've sure got some claims to fame now, don't I? Look out world. Not just anyone can say they've played the Nintendo Wii in Oprah. Ahem.

Mom Blogs- A Virtual Lifeline

If you have found yourself depending on the Moms of the Blogosphere for the sake of your own sanity, like I have, please go visit my guest author blog post at the Chronicle Book blog. It's just me gushing about how amazing us moms are. I know, it's preaching to the choir but driving a little mom traffic over there can only be a good thing, right?

Go sneak a peek at my post Finding My Village.

If you make it over, please comment. They are giving away a Chronicle Book too so don't miss out.

Hopes and Dreams

In case you didn't know, the lovely and talented Jen Lemen has opened the door to her new downloadable art site SoulSisters Design. Glory Hallelujah! This on top of the wares she offers at her Etsy shop. That means more ways to get yourself a little bit of the beauty that makes the world a better place. How sweet is that?

Pretty sweet.

The Elephant in the Yard