New Years Eve

262 Marriott Hotel, Seoul, Korea, Nikon D-80, Curved, 12-31-09

Happy New Year Everyone!

Live Zen

2010

Bridging Understanding

263 Yeouido Saetgang Culture Bridge, Korea, Nikon D-80, Saturated, Filter-Fresco, 12-30-09

Korean Cranky

264 Seoul, Korea, Nikon D-80, f 22, 1/200, ISO 250, Saturated

Bye Bye Beijing

265 Alexa & Bo, Beijing Airport, China, Nikon D-80, 12-29-09

Communist Christmas

269,268,267,266 Beijing, China, Nikon D-80, Pictures are varied in Photoshopped with Saturation, Niks Silver Efx & Filters. 12-25,26,27,28-09

Blogs were delayed and suspended due to Chinese Government control over internet programs i.e. Facebook and Blogs.

The following are pictures of our time in Beijing.

Judy, (American name);

Shopping at Pearl Market;

Yao Ming & Alexa (He was staying at our hotel and conducting interviews in the Executive Lounge...Crutches are due to an ankle injury from Basketball);

Smoke stack just outside our hotel.

Ho Ho "O's"

270 San Fran Airport, San Francisco, CA, Nikon D-80, f 4.0, 1/60, ISO 250, Saturated, 12-24-09

Happy Ho Ho "O" Holiday to you!!! Christmas Eve and just a few minutes before we board the flight bound for Beijing...

Merry Christmas everyone!!!

Travel Time

271 Sky Harbor Airport, Phoenix, AZ, Nikon D-80, 12-23-09*

It's been a long time since we've had to choose where and when to celebrate Christmas. Having 25 years with United Airlines, the last time he had to fly over the holidays was when the kids were very little. So, we will do now what we did then...travel as a family and be together on Scott's trip!!!

Our list of what of what we will bring...One roll-on suitcase, (No checked luggage), passports, visa's, money and love! Check!

Here's to talking to you from San Fran tomorrow and Beijing & Korea from then on...Big hugs my Followers!

Xmas Love

272 Grammy Margie and Alexa, Paradise Valley, AZ, Nikon D-80, f 4.8, 1/160, ISO 250, Niks Silver Efx, Antique Plate II, 12-22-09

Celebrating our Christmas three days early, we opened gifts, shared in a ham dinner and snuggled together gathering generational hugs!

Life is good friends!!! Care, be aware and declare your love...

Count Zero

273 Holly R., Birthday Celebration, Kate's House, Phoenix, AZ, Nikon D-80, Vivacity, Photoshopped-Saturated, 12-21-09

A friend is -- a push when you've stopped; a word when you're lonely; a guide when you're searching; a smile when you're sad; a song when you're glad. ~Charles "T" Jones

Sunday Servant

274 St. Barnabas on the Desert, Paradise Valley, AZ, Nikon D-80, f 5.6, 1/100, ISO 800, Saturated, 12-20-09

"I'm not worthy, but only say the word Lord and I shall be healed"... This is my silent prayer every Sunday before communion. I really am not worthy or remotely good enough in thought, word and deed to be taking communion.

Are you asking why do I take it then? Why don't I cross my arms and accept a blessing rather than sharing in the sacrament of my Lord? The answer is without logic and without the perfect scripture verse to back up my actions, but plain and simple...I'm a sinner and I'm praying that by renewing my soul with the Body and Blood of Christ, I might start anew.

Today, the calling was to serve. "The blood of Christ, the cup of salvation"...Those were the words I repeated as I held the cup of wine for my brothers and sisters to dip their wafer into. Looking into their eyes, holding the chalice and still not worthy, I am deeply moved by the power of the Holy Spirit and whisper to myself...Thank you God. I am your servant, He died on a cross for me, lead me not into temptation, but deliver me from evil. Again, today, I start anew...

Blurry Fast

275 Paradise Valley, AZ, Nikon D-80, f 4.5, 3.0, ISO 400, 12-19-09

Everything flows, nothing stays still. ~Heraclitus

One week before Christmas and there isn't time to breathe! Slow down world! Really...As the movements of the season take over our beings, remember to avoid the blur and forcibly stop your steps.

I was in a total funk today, hormonally challenged and stalking available friends to entertain me, but it wasn't going to happen. Everyone was either as crabby as me or too busy for idle play time. Sooo lucky for them, because I was a toot for sure.

Do you ever get like that? Where you are almost on edge with needing someone or something to remove the cloud cover that you, yourself forced over head?!? That is where I was when my big strapping 6'3 boy came bounding into my room and asked for a snuggle. :) Instant state change. Moments to be thankful for...Look for them while you stumble in the lurky muck. After our snuggle, we had dinner together, wrapped presents and slowly, very slowly...My sweet personality returned.

While everything is blurry fast, remember to be quiet and methodical in your refocus of the special people, places and moments of your life. Blessings...

Miss Manners

276 WineStyles, Scottsdale, AZ, Nikon D-80, f 5.6, 1/125, ISO 125, Photo Shopped Curved, 12-18-09

The year was 1984, it was a two bedroom town home overlooking a beautiful canal on the island of Oahu. Newly married and celebrating our first home together, we invited my husbands Mother and Father over for dinner.

As she walked through the front door, she already seemed to be upset with something, but kept her thoughts to herself. There was small talk and big talk and nothing was easing the growing irritation within her. Finally, we offered her a cocktail knowing our choices were limited by our inexperience with drinking. Beer, wine and maybe the ingredients for a strawberry daiquiri?

It was then that the straw broke the camels back. We were spoiled brats with a beautiful first home, we were grossly happy and insanely enamored with each other and to top off the reasons for anger, we were idiots at entertaining. "When you invite someone over to your home, you offer them a drink. This is after you have called prior to their arrival and know what beverage they prefer to drink". Hers at the time was 7up and Jack Daniels. Seriously? The rest of the evening involved a trip to the store to collect proper libations, continued 'Miss Manners' lessons and a strong desire to shove an etiquette book right up her you know what.

For years I have recounted that story and have always made my mother-in-law out to be the biggest bi-atch of all time, but tonight...Yes, that's right...tonight 25 years later, the table was turned. Turns out, she flippin' was right! I've put on and been to hundreds of parties since then and because it's done so effortlessly, there was never need to take note...until this evening. We arrived, were greeted nicely, noticed a circle of 10 people playing a card game and that's it, after that we were never looked at, talked to or acknowledged again. The person who brought me to the party was the sister of the host so she was comfortable enough to walk into the kitchen and made HERSELF a drink.

Is an apology after 25 years too late? I was young much like the college grads gathered in the room tonight, but I now see the wrong in not making a guest feel right.

Saint

277 Dayami P., Paradise Valley, AZ, Nikon D-80, f 5.3, 1/60, ISO 250, Niks Silver Efx, Filter Cutout, 12-17-09

I am not a saint, unless you think of a saint as a sinner who keeps on trying. ~Nelson Mandela

Naturally

278 The Zellers, Scottsdale, AZ, Nikon D-80, f 5.3, 1/160, ISO 250, Niks Silver Efx - Antiqued Plate, 12-16-09

What is your family like? Are you best friends with your siblings? Or do you wonder how it's possible you came from the same mother and father?

It never ceases to amaze me that 'like blood' & similar DNA often times produces complete opposites in family similarities. Take my family for instance...4 children (I'm the third) and all of us are night and day different! Really...None of us look alike, act alike, talk alike, walk alike. It's weird?

What is even more weird is that when you put us all in a room together, we fold into each others lives, arms and love as if we did look, act, talk and walk alike! We are each other's advocates, critics and biggest supporters of good times and bad. And when the going gets really tough, the first people we reach towards are one another. The same people we tried to beat up, abuse and mess with their minds when we were children are the same people we know have our backs as adults. Your blood is thicker than water and proves itself more so as you age. Family is forever, naturally!

My Village

279 Girls Night Xmas, Nikon D-80, f 4.0, 1/60, ISO 400, Vivacity Clean, 12-15-09

Once again, the cars cascaded into and onto my driveway and one by one, they trickled in. Holding children, food, wine and tonight the extra bonus of a wrapped present to be placed under the tree for a gift exchange later.

Marriages, relationships, spiritual walks, dating, children, college, careers and life are topics discussed randomly and openly. This is my village!

A look around this town and you will see women empowering women to be all they can be and more. Loving, nurturing and giving...The gift exchange this night, far beyond the presents under the tree! Merry Christmas my family, my friends...I love you all.

Tomorrows Dreams

280 Institute of Technology, Scottsdale, AZ, Nikon D-80, f 5.6, 1/60, ISO 125, Saturated, 12-14-09*

A tomorrow's structure is just like your tomorrow's dreams...Out there and not always in sync with it's surroundings, but there, none the less, shining brightly and full of hope.

When my business of Epiphany2Design came into my dreams, it was so far out of my realm of reality that I honestly didn't know if it could or would come true? But, the feeling of making it happen was overpowering and the vision of what photography would look like combined with art and graphics was beyond real in my mind. Throw in a few really brilliant, completely creative and talented friends and viola...Dream revealed!!!

Visualize your future by taking steps of action today. If it is something you want and feel will be, then it's a 100% guarantee, it will be!

Durable

281 Airport Truck, Sky Harbor Airport, AZ, Nikon D-80, f 5.6, 1/60, ISO 125, Niks Silver Efx, Antique Polarization, 12-13-09

Is it just me or does everything look like a camera? Talk about photography taking over my every thought. :)

Actually, this picture inspired the thoughts of we all need to be sturdy & durable. There are so many forces that would have us be weak and small wheeled like.

Take ahold of your day and think diesel strong. Be forceful with your intent and make your movements powerful. You are made for a purpose. Keep on trucking!!! :)

Take Flight

282 Jessica C., Paradise Valley, AZ, Nikon D-80, Epiphanized by Manny Fimbres

People who soar are those who refuse to sit back, sigh and wish things would change. They neither complain of their lot nor passively dream of some distant ship coming in. Rather, they visualize in their minds that they are not quitters; they will not allow life's circumstances to push them down and hold them under. ~Charles R. Swindoll

See It

283 Jennifer C., Scottsdale, AZ, Nikon D-80, f 5.6, 1/60, ISO 400, Epiphanized by Manny Fimbres, 12-11-09

It started out as an invitation, kind of a secret, but, he was adamant that we be ready by 6:15. What was the occasion and what were we doing? Jen's birthday and we're going country dancing? Huh? "Dress in your best cowboy outfits"...

Scrambling at 5:50 p.m., we were still searching for the attire requested and finally Scott and I donned our best country look and headed out on time. Feeling old and foolish in boots, straw hats and multi colored clothing, we were silly. First stop was at a wine bar in Kierland Commons. No "country" look required and admittedly, waaaay out of place, but never mind that as we walked up and made eye contact with Jen who was NOT in a western outfit and who was NOT in the mood to celebrate her special day. She had just been in 'discussion' with the conspirator for this evening, her husband, Phil, and the bucking bronco ride started in the car ride over. Let's just say, we needed to send in the clowns...

30 minutes prior to all of us meeting at Kierland, Phil had roused her out of sweat pants and into street clothes. Quite an undertaking as she was nursing a headache and convinced that her birthday meant she could do what she wanted. Hahahaha, really? Phil plucked her up and off the coach, coddled her with wine at the wine bar and when she cooed the words, "Can we go home now", we headed straight for Handle Bar J's, (Country bar with dancing). Poor Jen didn't have a chance to hate on her special day as Phil took control. Amazingly, we ended up having the best "rodeo" day ever! Cowboy outfits, drinking wine, dancing country...I see now. I see that when you allow the strong to lead, the followers are happily led. Sometimes when you least expect it and begrudgingly move with it, a good time can be had! :)

Happy birthday my bestest friend! We rocked it country style...Hee haw!

Brilliant

284 Sam S., Paradise Valley, AZ, Nikon D-80, f 5.6, 1/125, ISO 400, Vivacity, Waterpaper, 12-10-09

Do you know who you are? If you do know yourself; Is it beauty you see from the inside out? Each of us is incredibly gifted with our own unique stamp. And because of this, it's worth repeating over and over again...You are brilliant.

When ever I take pictures of people, I'm always, I mean always, humbled. There is something very intimate about looking through a lens and requesting a tilt of the chin this way or ever so slightly, a wink of an eye that way. Never is any two pictures identical and so during the course of a photo shoot, taking hundreds of pictures, the camera has a way of unmasking the outside layer of everyone.

I call it photo time travel because it feels like the years are rolled away, leaving the core of my models open and pure. When this happens as it usually does, I feel chills run down my arms and sometimes tears pool in my eyes. I love people...really and truly love them. Again, repeating over and over, you are uniquely rare, amazingly beautiful and a stand alone, one of a kind...Brilliant!

New Life

285 Nicole & Sean, Paradise Valley, AZ, Nikon D-80, f 4.2, 1/60, ISO 400, Niks Silver Efx Invert Black and White, 12-09-09

If We've Ever Needed You

"//If we ever needed you Lord/it's now, Lord, it's now/We are desperate for your hand/We're reaching out, we're reaching out//" ~Casting Crowns

Tree of Life

286 Hayden Park, AZ, Nikon D-80, f 8.0, 1/250, ISO 125,Vivacity Flat Style, 12-08-09

During the Sunday sermon, the question was asked by Father Clark, "Where is your wilderness"? The rest of his words were wise and amazing, but I couldn't get the original question out of my head and honestly, this is what I heard, "Where do you find your God, meditate and center yourself? Where is your 'Tree of Life'?"

Seems as though lately, I've forgotten I had a wilderness to run to? A place of comfort to study and pray. I feel as though the path that was so illuminated in the past has been shadowed by my own doing.

Even though through the darkness, I appreciate the light, I've missed being hand in hand with my Abba. Just like the tree with the reflection in the picture here, one would assume on a cloudy day, there would be no evidence of such, right? But, just like God, it and He is always there...Be with light. It's awesome to be reminded to seek refuge, refill the spirit and walk anew. Where is your wilderness?

Target Angel

287 Angel Tree Shopping, Indian Bend Pavillions, Nikon D-80, f 5.6, 1/60, ISO 400, Vivacity 12-07-09

Wrapped with papers and bows, the presents line the room and are readied with numbers and addresses for those lucky enough to volunteer and deliver gifts to tiny ones with parents incarcerated in prison.

What do these child recipients look like? Innocent faces, many just babies, drinking coca-cola from baby bottles while standing nearby, their siblings showcase sleeping arrangements of a mattress or if they are better than some, mattresses (plural) smack on the floor of the living room. Grandma's, Aunties and Uncles huddle together waiting for the love of the Angel Tree organization to pour into their humble surroundings and watch in bewilderment as strangers walk through their front doors laden with gifts for the true angels on earth, the children.

Christmas time is not necessarily about the presents that are showered on the kids in these places or of these circumstances, but on the people who come together to give and to receive. We are one with Christ...no line to draw a mark and define us by race, color or creed. Tonight shopping for, next week delivery of. God bless us all.

Your Scene

288 Oregano's Restaurant, Scottsdale, AZ, Nikon D-80, f 6.3, 1/160, ISO 400, 12-06-09

Have you ever been to an outing or an event and just thought to yourself, "This isn't my scene"? It's weird, but no matter how old I get, I still seem to put myself in situations where I just don't belong?

Oh, sure, to the outsiders eye, it might appear that all is as it should be, but on the inside, I feel as odd and out of place as a square peg for a round hole.

How comforting it is to be in the surroundings I call home, taking pictures of people I call friends and enjoying a family I call love! That's really 'my scene'. Goodnight everyone.

Sing It

289 Broadway Bash Event, St. B's, Paradise Valley, AZ, Sony Cybershot, Niks Efx, Pinhole

The past cannot be regained, although we can learn from it; the future is not yet ours even though we must plan for it...Time is now. We have only today. ~Charles Hummell

Liquid Thoughts

290 Burrio's Restaurant, Scottsdale, AZ, Nikon D-80, f 5.6, 1/200, ISO 400, Photo Shopped-Fresco, 12-4-09

Yes, I titled this blog 'Liquid Thoughts' for a reason...It's the season! Seriously, I'm almost tired of drinking too much wine :) Too much wine, too much food makes for too much Misty!

Remember that awesome entry not too long ago about being happy with the yummy moments and talking yourself thin? Yeah, that's all crap! You are what you eat! (And drink) Ugh! I'm ready to be brutally honest and admit I don't like being up on the scale (as I sit here typing and eating peanut m&m's). Someone shoot me before I eat and drink more!!!

I've even resorted to naming my additional girth around my middle, Emma. She is gaining in size and if I didn't know any Peri-Menopausal different, I'd run out and buy an EPT. Lord have mercy! So, that's my day...Happy, right? Thank goodness these are liquid thoughts that will run off the page and be forgotten tomorrow. Goodnight skinny people!

I Heart You

291 Two Cacti Merged Together, Paradise Valley, AZ, f 5.0, 1/40, ISO 400, Color Saturated, 12-03-09

There is not a heart but has its moments of longing, yearning for something better, nobler, holier than it knows now. ~Henry Ward Beecher

Completely inspired by the above quote, I challenged myself today to search and shoot anything that looked like a heart without actually manipulating the scene.

Do you want to know what happens when you purposely set out to find anything with a heart? You absolutely look and see things that would have been overlooked before. Twigs, flowers, leaves, bark, light switches, furniture...everything has new meaning. Just for fun if you're out and about, think about trying to find a heart shape in the world you live in. Including those that you surround yourself with...

We can get so caught up in finding and seeing things that aren't right or aren't what they should be that we forget to look at what is exactly as it is, perfect! Here's to you seeking & discovering the hearts all around you! Goodnight.

Take That

292 Wilson T., Scottsdale, AZ, Nikon D-80, f 4.8, 1/60, ISO 400, Photo Shopped-Sumi E, 12-02-09*

Hi-ya...Take that! It's been said that once you decide to make a change, then the change that you seek will be 100% effective. The key is that you DECIDED to follow through with what ever your goal was. You might be re-reading those words and looking back at your own life; thinking to yourself and evaluating the prospect of what you desired and wanted to achieve was truly at the inception of finally deciding?

My mom quit smoking the day she "decided" to. Not for her children, her doctors recommendation or for her partner who also was hopeful to make a daily routine without a cigarette. Making the decision to decide to change is your secret formula. Your very own magic potion to drink when you really want to be different, live different or aspire for different.

Saying the words, "I hope" or "I'll try" are words of excuses where the eventual fallback is long term failure. Make it a point to say instead, "I decided to"...See what happens? I say, "Hi-ya...Take that new life of mine, I decided to be a photographer with a blog". I DECIDED TO! :)

Perfection

293 Lyndsay L., Paradise Valley, AZ, Nikon D-80, f 5.6, 1/60, ISO 400, 12-1-09

Don't aim for success if you want it; just do what you love and believe in, and it will come naturally.

~David Frost

Brat

294 N9, Scottsdale, AZ, Nikon D-80, f 5.6, 1/60, ISO 400 11-30-09

Plain and simple question? Do you keep a journal? I've had several over the years and only one even came close to being filled up? It was while attending a church college and writing in a journal was like brushing your teeth. In other words, you just did it.

I still have that almost filled up journal tucked away and every once in a while I will bring it out, blow the dust off the top and look through the writings. Beyond the few savored photos, letters/cards and little scraps of things I glued within the pages, I'm not impressed. Honestly, it's horrific at how little trust I had in my roommates, friends, family, college attendees and basically the world that I refused to write anything remotely close to what was really happening. Always afraid someone one would peek or find out some morsel of me that would deem me "inadequate".

A friend described the inability to be honest in writing as a way of 'masking'. Wearing a mask allows a person to reveal what they have 'put on'. If people don't like you, it's really just a mask, not you. Thereby you solidify the risk of someone not liking your true self. Sounds very calculating...:) I can't say for sure, but I do know that writing negative things in a little blank paged book only, in my mind, perpetuated negative...So, I don't, can't and won't. Call me Brat.

Plain and simple answer...Yes, I keep a journal/many journals...Do they ever speak ill will or of spouting anger...No. What about you?

Grinch Me

295 Christmas Ornament, Paradise Valley, AZ, Nikon D-80, f 3.3, 1/60, ISO 200, 11-30-09

It's tradition! Every year, the day after Thanksgiving, they pull out their Christmas decorations, videos and music and begin the holiday season with unbridled joy and excitement. It feels very much like the "Whoville" from Dr. Suess's book, The Grinch who stole Christmas.

Inspired by their example, we too are trying to follow their enthusiasm and bedeck our halls quicker than we usually do which is, I promise no later than Christmas Eve. Huh? Is that late?

Anyway, if they are the Lou Who's, then you can only imagine who I am at this very moment...My heart is very little indeed. Grumpy with too much stuff after years of collecting items and sad because the usual 4 person team that decorates house and tree has been reduced to 3. Alexa headed back to college in Tucson and the boys and I are shouldering the work load as if we were in a retail business and only doing our job because there is a paycheck at the end of the day. Bah hum bug I say...

Happy holidays to all you Whoville, holly high, (Mackay Family) Christmas lovin' peeps!

Heart Happy

296 Cassidy M., Evergreen, CO, Nikon D-80, f 5.6, 1/60, ISO 400, Niks Efx, Pinhole Black and White, 11-28-09*

Why is it that travel time away makes coming home so beautiful? Even though our Thanksgiving with the Mackays was awesome and beyond fun, getting back to our home, our dog and our friends feels like warm caramel sauce on vanilla ice cream. Ooey, gooey and yummy!

My heart is happy today! It's nice...nice indeed.

Top 5

297 Sadie & Lorelei, Evergreen, CO, Nikon D-80, f 4.5, 1/60, ISO 400

Where are you when it comes to the topic of making a relationship work? How do you take two people from two different walks of life, velcro them together and assume they will flourish? Whether it be a significant other, a marriage partner or roommate, the task of staying true to a committed vow of being respectful, loving and kind to one another is sometimes as difficult as putting a man on the moon.

I said difficult, not impossible and definitely not without it's rewards when it is in sync. Finding that rhythm is genuinely a flashback to the beginning. Creating your "list". You know that top 5 must be/must haves/must not do list? Mine was simple, 1)Must believe in God 2) Must not smoke 3)Must have drive/initiative/confidence 4)Must be athletic & (call me shallow) 5)Must be handsome (to me). Seems easy enough, right? Yet, you would be surprised by the people I talk to who have no list? Why?

Alexander Hamilton is quoted as saying, "If you don't stand for something, you'll fall for anything". If you are reading this and haven't sincerely thought out a top 5 list for what ever you are looking for, do it now. Put it out there in the universe. Know what you want and you'll get what you want. That's just the beginning...the rest will be more blogs for other days. Goodnight committed, respectful and loving people...

Gobble Gobble

298 Denver,Co, Nikon D-80, f 3.6, 1/60, ISO 400, Macro Lens, Borrowed My Camera & Picture Taken by Kelvin Tomes

Oh fatness be thy name! Why does this day mean, eat as much as your hand to mouth ratio can stand? Seriously, I needed an oxygen tank to open up my squished and closed off breathing tubes from gorging my face and stuffing my belly!

Scott's toast for the table as we held our overflowing cups of wine in the air was, "To new friends, old friends and to best friends"! Perfectly expressing the connections of our circle gathered for Thanksgiving. Hoping your feast was as grossly filling and emotionally fulfilling...Goodnight friends.

Beyond Delayed

299 Alexa V, Sky Harbor Airport, AZ, Nikon D-80, f 5.3, 1/30, ISO 400, Extreme Saturation

Oh my...It was the delay one would expect on their way to a friends house for a Thanksgiving feast. Especially, via air travel. Who was the crazy, funny clown that thought day before travel would work for non-revenue passengers?

Another day, another blog topic for sure...But, all the time at an airport gave way for the most incredible people watching, psycho analyzing of those around us. Computers, cell phones and Ipods were toys of the day while children (likely carries of the H1N1 virus) ran rampant around waiting area. Blessings of the holidays were not discussed as angry faces and snotty noses were spouting frustrations with airline travel in general. Listening into phone conversations was even better than watching body language as apologetic, syrup sweet voices belied the evidence of clenched fists and stomping of feet.

Don't you love when friends and families can gather and remember the gifts of flying tubes that take us across states, of opportunities to reenact the dysfunction of family circles and most especially, the gifts of remembering how perfect and normal each one of us are all by ourselves! God bless us all! Hee hee.

Birthday Love

300 Kate S., Scottsdale, AZ, Nikon D-80, f 5.0, 1/60, ISO 400, PhotoShop Poster Edges, 11-24-09

Remember when you were a child and the only day of the year that was better than Christmas was your birthday? How each candle on the cake was a true sign of your getting to be a big person?

How is it that after the age of 30, the candles represent some dark hole of depression. Further down the tunnel you travel with each wax piece affixed to your only source of escape from the turning of the chronological clock, your cake.

Alright, alright...I'm a brat today because the girl in this picture is light years away from hating "her special day" and actually enjoys the years that accumulate on her not so ancient frame! She truly is the oldest teenager on the face of the earth! I have made note of said attitude and am going to strap on a new one when it's my time. Um, and by the way, that is like...way, way far away! :) Big peoples unite and enjoy the gifts of being smarter, wiser and better!

It is not the years in your life but the life your years that counts. ~Adlai Stevenson

Burning Desire

301 Firewall, Montelucia, Paradise Valley, AZ, Nikon D-80, f 5.6 1/500, ISO 200

When you are following your energy and doing what you want all the time, the distinction between work and play dissolves. ~~Shakti Gawain

Talk Pretty

302 Cordial Stemware, Scottsdale, AZ, Nikon D-80, f 3.3, 1/60, ISO 200, Curved, 11-22-09

It's that time of year...you know when the glitter lights come out and even before Thanksgiving is done, every house, store and building is trimmed in Christmas decor...and more importantly, it's when all the yummy food you've denied yourself forever is seemingly, at every meal and snack. Oh, my dear friends, it is indeed the time of year when belt buckles begin to sing as they stretch and seams of clothing are tested for thread strength.

All the while, moods that are supposed to be jubilant with the seasonal tidings, are given to the undeniable and unanimous cranky Evil Twins within. (See Blog Twin Within) :)

This is what I'm proposing as I toast another in celebration of this or that and I eat yet again for this event or that...That I let go of the usual self hate talk of yore. This month and next, it's my biggest challenge to date, an experiment of sorts, but I promise to love me more!!!

On my skin, I will write in permanent marker that I am beautiful no matter what. That my husband adores me and it's good to be me, but this is the trickiest self help I will attempt...That I WILL lie to my brain and tell myself, "I'm so skinny...my clothes are just falling off my puny and gaunt like body". Hee hee.

I've heard that you can convince yourself THIN. Huh? Why the hell not? I convince myself of every other ludicrous thing in the world? Why not body image as well? Hello, everyone reading this...It's that time of year. Deck the halls and be merry, talk pretty to yourself and let the power of your brain control the size of your clothes! It's good to be you...eat, live and love!

Light Within

303 Montelucia Resort & Spa, Paradise Valley, AZ, Nikon D-80, f 3.3, 1/8, ISO 200, Curved, 11-21-09

It's like you enter another world when you walk through the almost hidden entrance to the Montelucia Resort. A courtyard that makes you feel like you've been welcomed to a dear friends home. Free of the oversized and overly stupid proof directions to hotel lobby or restaurant of choice.

The collection of guests either staying at the resort or dining at the restaurant is as eclectic as some of the art displayed around. But, no worries, as it wasn't about meeting new people, rather a chance to breath in and reconnect with those we came with.

It's a honor to know people who are as pretty on the outside as they are on the inside. Just like the mosaic chandelier pictured here, our friends have a light within that extends far beyond the simple area they are positioned in. Makes me feel safe, comforted and warm. I just love the glowing countenance that is so very present in the people I know. Thank you everyone. :)

B-e-a-u-t-i-f-u-l

304 Kathleen T., Scottsdale, AZ, Nikon D-80, f 3.8, 1/60, ISO 200, Macro Lens, 11-20-09

Speak clearly if you speak at all; Carve every word before you let it fall.

~~Oliver Wendell Holmes

Finding your footing with your words is as powerful and meaningful as first walking. Understanding your path is forever changed because you opened up your journey by learning the coordination of the step.

So is your future guided by the language you speak and choice of words you use. Tonight we played a spontaneous game, "Spelling Bee" with a boy who has learned through much effort how to speak and communicate. He is 12, has autism and was the host to a game show for all in the room.

Understanding his pronunciation was a slight task, but marveling at his genius with the spelling was inspiring. Feeling his joy with each and every word was a reminder to us all the importance of our language, which is all too often taken for granted and its value under appreciated for the gift of communication it brings. Thank you to Matthew for allowing us to remember the power of a word and how to spell the gosh darn thing!

Macro Moments

305 Jester Headband, St. B's Kitchen Cupboard Find, Nikon D-80, Rented Macro Lens :), f 3.3, 1/60, ISO 200, 11-19-09

It's all about answering the call...About grabbing the goods...about rising up and finally seizing the moment!!!

Have you ever felt stifled and held back on something you wanted because of time, family or finances? Me too! I'm here to tell you...It's horrible! To hold back on what is supposed to be is like clipping the wings of a bird who is supposed to fly. But, hear me loud and clear...Not today and not this weekend. I am out of my cage and fully winged.

Flying full speed ahead...(At least until Monday when the 'rental' reason for my flight pattern has to be returned to Tempe Camera)! Shhhhh, not thinking about that now and putting sad into my blog because I'm sequin sparkling, it's a macro lens friends!!! I'm a freak...so giddy with pictures captured that allow me to focus in on the tiniest of details.

It's the little things that make a big difference. What is your micro reasoning for not releasing your birdcage door, even for just the weekend? Come fly with me...

Not Obvious

306 Road Runner, Scottsdale, AZ, Sony Cybershot, Photoshopped, Niks Silver Efx, Solarization, 11-18-09

Here's a life lesson for you...Just like in nature, it's okay to be a chameleon. Matching your environment and/or the people you surround yourself with. Especially, if you are wandering in a land or walk with a circle of people you strive to be like and exemplify.

Just remember one thing...In order to be a chameleon, you need to know yourself. Staying true to you is key to success of conforming to situations of learning. Always love you being you first and foremost. :)

No hiding the obvious uniqueness of your brilliance no matter how good the chameleon skills. You are perfect! I see you....

Macro Envy

307 Girls Night, Dee's House, Scottsdale, AZ, Nikon D-80, f 5.6, 1/60, ISO 200, Photoshopped Curved, 11-17-09

Another girls night, another gallon of wine drank and another countless calories consumed in the awesome appetizers brought by the group!

We had a guest visitor tonight who by all accounts and purposes is not one of us...It was a boy! Huh? What you say? It's true, every once in awhile, we allow the other team to join in on our festivities, (Especially, if he's married to the hostess...which was indeed the case tonight).

Here is what I rarely will admit...it was nice. Boys are good sometimes and he happens to be a keeper. Why? Because he is incredibly creative and gifted with his artistic abilities. He and I sat and discussed a school project he is doing...He brought out 2 cameras he's using and I immediately opened up my Nikon. We both attempted the shot you see pictured here, but I must be honest and tell you his picture was better! He has a macro lens...Grrrrr, the terrible green with envy within me. I just love the imagery gathered by this type of a lens. My photo is okay, but trust me, the guest visitor and his very awesome macro lens was the winner of the fork!

Isn't it awesome that this is my blog and proof of said victory will never show itself! Hee hee. Goodnight followers...sending positive macro (close and finely tuned) thoughts your way!

The Teacher

308 St. Barnabas Confirmation Class, Nikon D-80, f 5.3, 1/60, ISO 200, PhotoShopped, Glow Edges, 11-16-09

He came into the room and immediately took command. Was it his confidence, the white band tucked within his collar or his natural ability to be in front of an audience?

After establishing eye contact with all those in attendance, he asked us to bow our heads in prayer. As a couple of minutes passed without him speaking, I wonder if anyone opened their eyes and peeked as he was leading us in 'silent' prayer? Not a single word was uttered until he said, "Amen".

The power of silence is overwhelming, but difficult for me. My mind travels at an alarming rate of speed that I actually have to concentrate on just being focused on one thought. But, once the detachment of forcing my thoughts into a select column of prayer, I'm able to let go and just be present. Feeling my breathing and opening my mind to what is out there for me to receive.

Don't we all get so caught up in what we are supposed to do, supposed to say, supposed to feel that we forget how to be still and allow ourselves to open our arms and absorb? The teacher came into the room and without a word, taught.

Holy Indeed

309 St. Barnabas on the Desert, Nikon D-80, f 5.6, 1/80, ISO 800, 11-15-09

Have you ever been asked to do something that is a bit awkward and you know it will be accepted by some, but not by all? Today was that day for me...I was asked to photograph our church service with specific instructions to, "Just capture people and what ever you think would be interesting". In the past, I've had the honor to take pictures within our house of worship and to be honest, it's not easy.

Most of the pictures that were taken admittedly were spotty on the 'perfect' capture. A lot of blur or just missed moments because of hesitation to draw the camera up and shoot fast. Also, the lighting is absolutely minimal for a no flash situation and you never want to be obvious with the camera and tripod. So I decided that today would be different...I came prepared...Monopod (Single pole for easy maneuvering) and a tripod. Extra batteries for the camera and a determination to finally be at ease and confident with my being present and shooting the entire service from beginning to end.

During communion, however, someone sputtered the words I knew some were thinking, "That is not appropriate to take pictures now"...Saddened by my apparent personal failure to be inconspicuous, I quickly took a couple of more shots and then without hesitation, I reacted exactly as a 7 year old would. Especially, when they feel guilty...I spat back, "I was asked to do this by Father Clark". Hmmmph, I thought, that'll show him. Slightly miffed and obviously internally agitated, I picked up me, myself and I, as well as my camera and tripod and marched to the front of the church and in front of EVERYONE I snapped off at least 15 more pictures. :) Obviously, I have much to learn with being a humble and quiet, turn the other cheek, servant of My Lord.

And look at this blog? Instead of discussing all the positives in this day, which there were many, I have chosen to highlight the one negative for the entire day? My bad!!! Honestly, this was a holy day filled with holy messages. I love St. Baranabas on the Desert, the faithful Priests and the always amazing, incredibly adored, Bishop Thorton, the congregation that I call family and especially, I love God. I know He would be well pleased with photographing (during the service) all of the above as that and they are truly, holy indeed.

Supper Club

310 Scottsdale, AZ, Nikon D-80, f 5.0, 1/60, ISO 125, Cropped Only, 11-14-09

Tonight, we were treated to an incredible array of yummy food, great wine, new friends and the most beautiful fine china!

The only thing that could have topped this evening off and made it complete is if we had cleared the dishes, put the food away, sipped some more coffee and played good old fashioned board or card games.

No, not poker, you brats...:)

The Right Choice

311 Scottsdale, AZ, Nikon D-80, f 4.8, 1/60, Niks Silver Efx, 11-13-09

There are many times when each of us has to choose right from wrong. Lots of opportunities in life to exercise your power of discernment and be on the right path or not.

But, even the best of intentions can still lead to the worst of situations. So, the question is asked, how do you recover from the wrong choice or the horrible case scenario? What and how do you make amends?

My house keeper says it best, "I CUT IT" as she makes a slicing mark in the air with her hand. "Thank you Jesus" she says right after her mark has been made with the emphatic signal. When I watch her, I wonder...Is it really that easy? Should we all be able to simply take our hand and make a zorro mark towards our target and eliminate the wrong doings each of us commit on a daily basis?

Deciding to change doesn't erase the error, but it certainly points the vane arrow in the right direction. So today, as I struggle with good choices and bad...I'm slicing my hand through the open space before me and declaring, "I CUT IT". I am deciding to change, to stand anew and to be what I intend to be.

The right choice is and always will be, quite effectively, unbelievable easy given the fact, that it is the right choice.