Allyson Lyon Photography

This Blog is a Little our of Practice

2010-03-09T20:01:00.002-05:00

Since I last wrote, we moved to a whole new town. I have gone back to school and subsequently ended my 10 year stint as a stay-at-home Mom. I have also taken a hiatus from photography...sorta.

Most of my fellow photogs know that winter is a slow time for business anyway, but with moving and everything, I also didn't promote my business. It's hard to explain but something just wasn't jiving. So I took some time and now I am feeling refreshed and ready to start the new season.

What better place to start then with my own family. I took these yesterday. Caide is at the wonderful stage of hating sitting still, which makes pictures oh so much fun!

Are You Ready for Some Football?

2009-09-17T09:33:00.003-04:00

Our oldest son has been a soccer kid since he was born, he's played spring and fall every year since he was old enough to play in a league. (4 I think).

This year though he decided he wanted to give football a try. I was excited for him, Mason is not usually adventurous. He doesn't like change at all, so we were absolutely thrilled that he was stepping out of his box.

He's doing well. His soccer skills have benefited him and he's not only a guard but a kicker. He really enjoys kicking and isn't to bad at it either.

To be honest, I think he will go back to soccer, but at least he tried at that is the biggest battle in this life sometimes isn't it?

Open Mic Night

2009-08-20T14:32:00.003-04:00

Last weekend I was invited to check out Winamac's Open Mic Night, and take some pictures. I had heard people discuss Open Mic Night before, but was understandably skeptical. I have to admit that I couldn't have been more wrong.

The amount of true talent that night was amazing. We were only able to stay for about half of the performers due to having kids at home, but we can't wait to go back next month.

Oregon Part 7

2009-08-18T07:59:00.005-04:00

It's only taken me two months, but this is the final installment of my Oregon series.

This installment will be less formal. I'm sure you have all figured out that we had an absolute amazing time. It was so much fun to go exploring with my family. Our kids are still talking about it and I want to go back. Life is so much easier when you get to play instead of work.

I'll leave you with some other fun pictures I took while we were there. Enjoy.

This is one of my favorite taken on the entire trip, Mason and I were hanging out waiting for the sun to set. While we were waiting we started goofing off and ended up taking shadow pictures.

Not all the pictures you see here are my best work. Should it be, maybe, but these are also pictures of my life. I'm not always staging, and posing people. This is a perfect example of just that. Such a tender moment. A crappy picture, yes, but it means so so much to me.

These next two pictures are just some random shots I took.

Sunrise

Sunset

Lucas Lodge also known as where Deliverance was filmed.

Harbor Seals

Oregon Part 6

2009-07-30T14:10:00.003-04:00

Half way through our vacation we were given the gift of a two night stay at the Oregon Coast. Specifically we spent time in Gold Beach at the Gold Beach Inn.

The town we were staying was about 3 hours from Medford where we spent the majority of our vacation.

In an attempt to give honest reviews of the things we did and the places we stayed, I feel like I should start off by saying that Gold Beach Inn could use a bit of an update in decor. I'm fairly certain we had the same console TV in our house in 1988. In fact I'm pretty sure that was a replica of my childhood home. NOW as I saw this let me also say, the part of the inn where we stayed, which was a very nice sized HOUSE, was very clean, very comfortable, and very very reasonably priced. I would absolutely stay there again. Especially with the option to rent a house for a few nights as opposed to having to get 2 or more rooms. With a family of our size having options like that is really a blessing.

The hotel is ocean front, but there is about a 100 - 150 yard hike to get to the beach. It's not a difficult hike, it's just a small path you follow and voila your there!

Gold Beach seemed like a small town where everyone knew everyone. It was friendly, and slow paced, a good place to spend some time getting away.

Why Gold Beach instead of some other coastal town? Well from what I hear they have less foggy days and less rain than most of the other coastal town because of they way the town is situated on the land. That could be completely false, but this is what I was told while we were there.

The second day we were there we went to play on the beach, and noticed something lying in the sand. As we got closer we saw that it was a baby sea lion. There was a gentleman there that said he had already contacted animal control and that they were coming out to put up a sign instructing people not to touch the baby sea lion. I, being the non-coastal being that I am, was completely intrigued by being able to get so close to this beautiful animal, and not have it be in a zoo. So I sat and waited. Once animal control got there she explained that sea lions drop their young off on the beach and go out to fish, and then later on they come back to pick up their babies. UNLESS, however, someone touches the baby and then she will leave it abandoned.

I sat on the beach for 3 hours shoeing everyone away, but it didn't matter. I'm pretty sure that momma seal just picked the wrong spot to leave her baby, far over populated to keep him out of harms way. As of when we left he was still on the beach and I'm fairly certain was going to die. I actually went to the effort to look for a rescue but there is nothing. As sad as it sounds I was extremely upset and lost sleep over this little guy.

Here are some other shots of the coast. This was not directly in Gold Beach but very close and definitely on the way.

As I mentioned we drove down to the coast from Medford. Normally a 3 hour drive we managed to turn it in to closer to 6 hours by stopping at Jedediah Smith Redwood State Park in California. One way you take to the coast from Medford requires you to make a quick jog into California.

I'm sure by now I sound like a broken record but this is another MUST SEE! Our kids could have played there for days! What's so special? Nothing, ok well it's special but in a very "one with nature" kind of way. No glitz and glam, if that's your idea of vacation go to Vegas, Jedediah Smith Redwood was just quiet, with warm water to wade or swim in. The sunshine was beautiful. The trees enormous. It was a great place to stop and picnic, run off energy, and break up a trip. Mike and I both would like to go back and camp for a few days.

Oh and did I mention there is a gigantic rock to jump off of into a big pool of water. Yay that was fun!

Look at the size of these trees! They are GINORMOUS (yes that's a word).

Oregon Part 5

2009-07-28T23:21:00.004-04:00

Yesterday I left you at Crater Lake National Park, remember one of the 1000 places you should see before you die?

Today, let me tell you about some of the cool things to do on your way up there.

Most of you know that we have a daughter named Peyton. Imagine her excitement at getting to cross her very own bridge. If you don't have a daughter or son with the name Peyton then this really means nothing to you at all. I, however, wouldn't miss an opportunity to brag and show more pictures of our Peyton.

Let's talk food, frankly there isn't a whole lot up there. There are a couple restaurants in the park. The one in the lodge that overlooks Crater Lake is FANTASTIC. Expensive, but FANTASTIC! That being said, it's more adult food, and not (imho) very kid friendly.

On the way up however there is Beckie's Restaurant. This quaint little restaurant with seating for 30, at most, is packed every time I've been through the area. After sampling 2 slices of pie and having a fantastic lunch with our family there I understand why.

People come from all over JUST for the pie. Specifically the Huckleberry pie that is only available late August until they run out ... (I know I know but that's the way it works).

When we went for lunch they had a very accommodating kids menu at a reasonable price. I personally had the cheeseburger, and can I say, BEST CHEESEBURGER EVER. It was soooooohooohoooo good.

This place is a must stop, even if you only have the pie. I don't care if they tell you there will be a wait (and there likely will be even at off hours) to be seated, look around the area, and enjoy the wait. You will be rewarded.

A small drive, read 500 feet if that, up the road you'll run into the Upper Rogue Valley Gorge. Here you will find cascading waterfalls, chipmunks galore, a living stump, and a great deal of information about how the entire place was formed.

This stop is something that can be as long as you want to make it. You could spend hours here or a short 30 minutes depending on your schedule. Just be sure you go! I wouldn't recommend it if it wasn't totally worth it.

And.. because I like this picture. Mike took over the toting and had Caide in the carrier.

Enjoy your trip TO Crater Lake as much as you enjoy Crater Lake itself. There is so much to do, you just sometimes have to look!

Oregon Part 4

2009-07-28T12:04:00.003-04:00

There are 1000 places you should see before you die, at least according to Patricia Schultz.

Crater Lake is one of them on that list. After having been there twice now, I absolutely agree with her. This is one of the most BREATHTAKING places I have ever been.

Crater Lake did not come about because Mount Mazama blew it's top, which is widely believed, it collapsed in on itself. As this enormous volume of magma (54-63 km3, or 13-15 mi3) was rapidly removed from the chamber (about 5 km, or 3 mi below Earth's surface) to feed the climactic eruption, it created a huge void underneath the mountain. Leaving no support for this massive dome, the roof of the magma chamber collapsed, forming the bowl-shape depression known as a caldera.

Crater Lake is 1,943 feet (592 meters) makes it the deepest lake in the United States, and the seventh deepest in the world. Its fresh water is some of the clearest found anywhere in the world.

There are numerous trails for hiking and biking. Trails vary greatly in difficulty and length, but for healthy adults and kids you can definitely find a trail to suit your adventure level.

When we went we hiked Garfield trail, which is about 3.5 miles long and about a 1000ft vertical climb. We took out time and enjoyed the multitude of sites from that elevation. The kids did great, and while we did have to watch our step in a few places it was perfectly doable with our whole family

We even stopped to have a snowball fight, with an average snowfall every year of 522 inches, spots of snow can still be seen all year round. What a treat for our kids to get to play in it in July when snow hasn't been seen around here in months.

If your going to Oregon you MUST go here. For 10 dollars you get a week long pass into the park and endless adventures for your entire family.

You can see all the activities, from a boat ride to Wizard Island to Junior Ranger Programs on the Crater Lake National Park website.

As a note, none of these were photoshopped to improve the color of the water it truly is THAT blue. It's absolutely spectacular!

At the Old Ball Game

2009-07-28T10:24:00.003-04:00

This weekend I was invited to attend my God son's baseball tourney. They were playing in the state finals and I wanted to go and take pictures.

It all started with being invited to take pictures of the team leaving town, state bound, complete with firetruck accompaniment.

I wasn't able to make it to the Friday night game which they lost, but I did make it to the second game on Saturday. WHAT A GAME!! Final score was 9-7, won with a walk off home run, by Zack Griffin.

Final result we ended up 4th in the State! Not to shabby for such a small town. It was a great time and I love these pictures, as you can see from the mass amounts of pictures I took.

Oregon Part 3

2009-07-23T15:01:00.004-04:00

I am so elated at the positive response my Oregon posts have been getting. I knew I couldn't possibly be the only person that wanted to take her family on a vacation that had nothing to do with Mickey Mouse.

I'm going to skip around a bit, and talk about one of our day excursions.

The first is our trip into Jacksonville, Oregon just a few miles west of Medford.

Jacksonville was founded following discovery of gold deposits in 1851–1852. With the creation of Jackson County, it became the county seat, a role which was transferred to nearby Medford in 1927.

Jacksonville was home to the first Chinatown in Oregon, founded by immigrants from San Francisco, California. Evidence of this chapter of history was uncovered early in March 2004 when road work uncovered artifacts dating to the 1850s and 1860s. Construction was halted while archeologists performed four days of rescue excavations. Their findings included broken Chinese bowls and tea cups, handmade bottles, and fragments of opium paraphernalia and Chinese coins.

When the gold deposits were worked out, and the railway bypassed Jacksonville in 1884, the city's economy slowed. This had the unintended benefit of preserving a number of structures, which led to Jacksonville being designated a National Historic District in 1966, covering over 100 buildings. It was cited as a:

mid-19th century inland commercial city significant for its magnificent group of surviving unaltered commercial and residential buildings. The city was the principal financial center of southern Oregon until it was bypassed by the railroad.

It's a lovely little town, not equipped with to much to do but shopping, however I still recommend for it for a low key historical adventure. This town resembles a living museum. There are displays of an old bank, hotel, and water well all amongst people whom live and work here every day. If you enjoy seeing interesting real estate the houses here are quaint and unique. I love to drive/walk through the different neighborhoods.

As for the shopping I mentioned, all of them extraordinarily unique in their offerings, from antiques, and an extensive toy store, to a gourmet food store.

Pictures from our trip into Jacksonville.

Here are a few downtown street shots.

Handle from a historic well that used to supply water to the townspeople.

If you decide that you'd like to stay in Jacksonville, I've heard this place is nice. Judging from the outside it looks like a WONDERFUL place to spend a few days.

The Bybee's Historical Inn

Our Little Dare Devil

2009-07-21T10:51:00.003-04:00

Recently our youngest Caide discovered that he could climb the stairs. He'd scoot up there as fast as a bullet train. Laughing the entire way up.

We have a spiral staircase and finding a gate for it, has proven difficult. Instead we've found that our computer chair fits perfectly and keeps him at bay.

Unless of course his mother moves said chair because she is planning to put him down for a nap, and he sees a second of opportunity, to which he of course takes advantage of.

Needless to say as I see him half way up he catches a glimpse of me, catching him in the act. Being that he is nothing but ornery, he starts to giggle in defiant delight and falls.

I didn't make it in time, I manged to scoop him up within seconds but the damage was done. Our smallest one had broken both bones in his forearm.

He is so so pitiful looking and I hate to say this but dang if he isn't just the cutest thing in his cast.

Taken with a cell phone at the hospital.

Right before they casted him, as you can you'd never know he had a broken arm, look at that grin!

Right after they have him his temporary cast.

These were taken today, he got his permanent cast and after such a busy morning conked out on the couch.

Oregon Part 2

2009-07-20T14:34:00.006-04:00

I left you all at the airport if I am correct.

Let's skip over the flying portion where I was tweeting about needing to drink just to make it through. Skipping right over... truth be told the older kids were great, it was the youngest little terror that well terrorized me. So perhaps that is a slight exaggeration, but he's at the age where he wants to move and that just isn't very conducive to being stuck on an airplane for 3.5 hours.

Let's fast forward to the landing and eating lunch at one of my most FAVORITE restaurants Kaleidoscope Pizzeria and Pub.

Specifically I'd like to recommend the Baja Picante Pizza, Chicken Enchilada Pizza, and the Rogue Ranch Salad. All to.die.for. This place is a little hippy, a little eclectic, uniquely designed and OH MY GOODNESS delicious. I haven't had anything bad here. I'd almost consider moving to Oregon just so I could eat there on a regular basis. Seriously it's that good.

I took this picture when we were there in 2008, it's of some of their artwork that they have in the outdoor dining area.

In Oregon we were staying with Mike's Grandmother and Aunt Gayb. However, Mike's uncle Bart also lives in Oregon and he stopped over for a visit one of the first days we were there.

I managed to talk all three siblings, my father-in-law, aunt and uncle-in-law in to getting a picture together. I'm not sure when the last time the three had a photo taken but I'm told it's been a while.

Bart also brought over his dog Dolce, and for never being around small children she was really great with Caide. He made sure to break her in complete with tugging and pulling. Since Bart will be a new Grandpa come November, this isn't exactly a bad thing.

Granny and Gayb also have 3 dogs of their own. I only managed to take a picture of Abby though, affectionately referred to as "the fur pig". She's a sweet sweet golden and she too did well considering the limited exposure to small kids. All of the dogs (even nippy Daphne) did well for that matter. Gunny whom we wanted to dognap and bring home with us would play ball every day with Caide, it was absolutely precious.

ABBY:

Along with numerous cats, 2 horses (Danny and Fancy), some Koi fish and a variety of other animals, there was also a few of these guys that would come out at night to sing to us.

Finally I will leave you with a picture of Mike, my knight in shining armor, with our youngest checking out Danny.

I know this part 2 of our vacation doesn't highlight specific things to do if vacationing in Oregon, but it does show that vacations can be anything. We had just as much fun sitting around talking as we did on the outings that we paid for.

Besides, it's my blog and I can write what I want. ;)

Part 3 to come....

Oregon Part 1

2009-07-17T11:46:00.005-04:00

Over the last two weeks I was blessed to be able to take a wonderful family vacation to Oregon.

"Oregon? You mean you didn't go to Disney world?"

No we didn't.

I know it's hard to imagine anyone going on vacation with small children and not going to a overpriced, cliche theme park, but that is just what we did.

"OUCH! Did she just say that?"

Yep I did. Disney world is fine and I've been there but it's NOT the only place to vacation, and frankly it doesn't even make my top 10 for cool stuff to do with your family.

Do I seem bitter? I guess in a way I am. When I started researching our family vacation over a year ago I Googled until my fingers hurt trying to find a fun place to take my family that WASN'T Disney.

Every time I typed a new set of key words I thought my brain would explode when yet ANOTHER Disney ad popped up. Truth of the matter is there is very little information out there about family vacationing. In fact there is so little information that I'm seriously contemplating writing a book, "The Anti-Disney Vacation".

In the end, we opted for a family vacation that included a visit with family and we settled on a trip to Oregon.

I'm going to commit post suicide here, skip to the end of the story and just say WE HAD THE BEST TIME! This vacation was better than I could have ever imagined.

Let's face it with 5 kids 3 adults (oh and did I mention we took along my father in law?) this trip could have ended disastrously. Enough said, any sane person can understand my reluctance to create a fairy tale picture in my head of how this vacation would go. However, even if I had, this vacation was better than any fairy tale I could have dreamt up.

Our vacation started out with us flying out of Indianapolis (IND) and into Medford, OR (MFR). For the purpose of this being informative I am going to stop here, and talk about flying, TSA, airports, etc.

First if you have the option to fly out of Indy vs Ohare or some other airport do it! In November of 2008 Indy opened their brand new airport complete with post 9/11 design. What does that mean exactly? It means TSA wasn't just thrown into some back corner where you have to stand in make shift lines and then go through a haphazard setup.

Let's just say that Indy got it right. Not only do they have several TSA lines, but they are broken up into 3 types of lines. The casual traveler, the experienced traveler, and (drum roll) the FAMILY LINE! The family line ROCKS my SOCKS off. First you go to a table where a TSA agent comes and helps you put your things in bins, there are benches for the kids to sit down and take their shoes off. The TSA agent handles almost everything as far as your baggage goes and your left free to handle helping out the kids. It is as pain free as going through TSA can be. Thank you Indy for making me not want to commit hara kari before my vacation even started.

Before we left I packed each child with a book bag complete with their favorite quiet activities, books, crayons, coloring books, etc. I also packed food, because if all else fails food will keep them content and quiet. It was simple food, trail mix and animal crackers but it worked like a charm. I also packed each child their own pack of gum to help with the pressure change. The bags were a hit! I wouldn't do anything different. They had no idea what I packed so when we got on the plane it was like unveiling a present. They loved it!

This is where I am leaving you today.... More to come.

What?! I have to leave you in suspense. I will however leave you with one picture, unfortunately none from the airport because our point and shoot is missing and I wasn't going to drag out my DSLR.

This is one of the kids at Crater Lake. Such a beautiful place!

Jets Over the Heartland Winamac, Indiana

2009-06-29T08:38:00.004-04:00

I know it's geeky, but I love shooting forms of locomotion. Specifically I like shooting aviation.

As my husband and I were out on a bike ride with our little flock of goslings we noticed the annual miniature air show, Jets Over the Heartland, was going on.

We decided to take the kids and watch these miniature wings of fury zip, turn, and weave entertaining all that were watching.

As a side note, cost of admission is $5.00 per car. CHEAP FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT!! There is no restrictions on bringing your own food, or beverage, so take a picnic! They do have concessions there in case you get so caught up in the fun that you end up staying for two meals.

While they do have some bleachers I would recommend bringing lawn chairs for optimal comfort. Don't worry about kids getting antsy, every kid I saw there was so in-thralled with the jets no one seemed bored, but if you have a little one there is tons of nice grass that they can sit and play in.

I really can't express how family friendly this event really is.

Back to the important stuff, I've been shooting commercial aviation for some time. I find myself, dare I say, fairly good at shooting the giant boats in the sky.

This event was a WHOLE NEW BALLGAME! Those little planes were FAST. It took me several minutes to figure out how to focus, and catch the planes just so I could get a shot. Once I figured it out though it was GAME ON. I took tons of great pictures and I can't wait for the next event so I can go shoot them again. It was fast pace, fun, and a new challenge.

*If your wondering about the size of these, they really range quite a bit, I would say the average size of the ones we saw were between 3.5 - 5 feet, but we also saw one gulf stream that was at least 6 or 7 feet.

Around Winamac

2009-06-25T11:00:00.002-04:00

I took these for the Chamber of Commerce in Winamac, with any luck someday these might be postcards.

My Family Needed New Pictures

2009-06-23T13:57:00.005-04:00

As I looked at my walls, I realized that I've been so busy taking pictures of other families that mine were out of date.

The ones I have up, Caide isn't even 6 months old, and even though it's been less than a year the kids have grown so much since I took those.

I suppose you don't have to guess to hard about where this is going.

These two are my favorites.

Happy 1st Birthday Caide.

2009-06-12T09:58:00.002-04:00

A year? A whole year? Really? When, How?

It seems like just yesterday I was hiding the fact that I was in labor from Mike because I wanted to go to our special restaurant one more time before Caide was here. I knew it was early in the laboring process, but I also knew if he had the slightest clue that there was NO way I was getting steak and onion rings. So I kept my little secret close until we left and I got hit with a pretty good contraction. Then the cat was out of the bag.

He was so mad, "YOU KNEW, and you didn't tell me?!" (add in there a slight panic in his voice)

With that response I knew I had made the right decision and mmm that steak was good.

Little did I know that I still had 24 hours more of laboring ahead of me. Although thinking back that was probably a good thing, the steak needed to settle.

Then at 10:20 on June 7, 2008 we welcomed a beautiful, albeit gray as a ghost, 7lb 4oz baby in to this world. The gray was due to him having tied a perfect knot in his cord. Thankfully he was ok, and is as perfect today as he was that warm June night.

First birthdays at our house are big. I've always felt like that first year was the hardest, so not only am I celebrating a birthday, I am celebrating the fact that I survived it all!

This first birthday was no different. We had a cookout, family, friends, and CAKE!!

Happy first birthday Caide, I didn't know I was missing anything in my life until you came in and filled that void.

"The Beginning"

"The middle"

"The end - Drunk on cake"

"all cleaned up and enjoying one of his birthday presents."

A Surprise Birthday Party

2009-05-27T13:55:00.002-04:00

Happy Birthday Brandi!

Those of you that don't know us, I'm pretty sure she's going to kill me for this post. Everyone post a Happy Birthday note so she's not to mad.

The party planner, aka B's sister.

Kevin, B's husband.

Where Have I Been?

2009-05-20T12:07:00.003-04:00

I'm still here, and I'm still taking pictures.

See -

I make homemade Frosty Paws.

Yes, doggie ice cream. My husband, as a bachelor with nothing better to spend money, on used to buy these for the dog. Now with 5 kids, we don't have $3.50 a pop to spend so the dog can have ice cream every night.

Instead, I found a recipe to make a healthier, cheaper version. This is the last one in the batch I made, and Caide decided he wanted a taste too.

Our dog is so great, he lets Caide take it and as you can see he really wants to finish it off but would never do anything to Caide that might harm him. He really is the best dog.

Back to where I've been... Well, that post is coming soon. So stay tuned.

Day 177 - More Spring Fun

2009-04-29T11:56:00.002-04:00

Day 176 Flying Kites

2009-04-29T11:37:00.002-04:00

Day 175 - I Feel the Earth Move Under my Knees

2009-04-29T10:45:00.002-04:00

Day 27- Stellan

2009-04-27T10:44:00.004-04:00

EDIT EDIT EDIT!!!! DID YOU HEAR? Stellan got discharged! He gets to go home!! YAY! Looks like this will be the last Stellan post! How fitting, a picture taken of Stellan in the sunshine, and now he's out in the sun himself! CONGRATS STELLAN!

I'm catching up on posts... I have several Project 365 to get published and I had lots of Stellan posts to get up, but I am caught UP (well with Stellan posts anyway.

As always check Stellan updates here!

I took Stellan out with me this morning to play in the sunshine!

Day 26 Stellan

2009-04-27T10:37:00.001-04:00

Day 25 - Stellan

2009-04-27T10:35:00.001-04:00

Day 24- Stellan

2009-04-27T10:33:00.002-04:00

Watching Dora with the kids.

Day 23 -Stellan

2009-04-27T10:29:00.002-04:00

Playing Guitar Hero with the family.

Day 22 Stellan

2009-04-27T10:19:00.002-04:00

We recently had to gate Caide out of the kitchen because he kept throwing the dog food everywhere. We thought Stellan should celebrate this new milestone. :)

Day 21 - Stellan

2009-04-27T10:02:00.002-04:00

Day 174 - Maternity Shoot Part II

2009-04-21T16:06:00.002-04:00

This is the second part of my maternity shoot with Erin and Ryan. Did I mention how wonderful they both were to work with?

Day 173 - My First Maternity Shoot

2009-04-20T12:45:00.003-04:00

I had my first Maternity shoot this weekend with this lovely new momma. She is just a week from giving birth, can you even believe it? She is just beaming with beauty.

Stellan Post Day 20~

2009-04-20T08:28:00.000-04:00

For updates on Stellan's Status click HERE.

Stellan Day 19

2009-04-19T10:24:00.001-04:00

For the newest Stellan updates check out My Charming Kids Blog.

Stellan Day 18

2009-04-18T12:22:00.002-04:00

Day 172 Signs.

2009-04-18T08:48:00.000-04:00

Day 171 Mr. Ed

2009-04-17T10:31:00.002-04:00

Stellan Day 17

2009-04-17T09:25:00.001-04:00

Check for Stellan updates here.

Stellan Day 16

2009-04-17T09:14:00.003-04:00

Stellan is in Boston now, and from reading the updates on Twitter his McMama seems to be in a great mood.

Day 170 - Winamac Tea Party

2009-04-15T20:44:00.003-04:00

Today all throughout our area, and many others from what I am reading, there were several "tea parties" protesting Washington's latest spending spree.

These are pictures from our area tea party.

Thomas Paine was there to guest speak.

Stellan Day 15

2009-04-15T19:04:00.002-04:00

I am finally all caught up with posting so I will go back to posting individual Stellan posts.

As always please go and check any recent Stellan updates here!

He's in need of our prayers and thoughts again, as it seems he will be traveling to Boston for more managed care. Everyone keep this family in your thoughts

Until then... I leave this, Caide wanted to play with his buddy today.

Day 169/ Stellan Day 14

2009-04-15T16:38:00.004-04:00

The kids wanted to make their own Stellan signs, this is Peytons.

______________________________________________________________________________________
These are of Kyrsten in her Judo class. Lighting in there was horrible, so these are not the greatest.

Oddly enough this is my favorite from today I love the implied motion...

Day 168, Easter and Stellan Day 13

2009-04-15T16:07:00.003-04:00

Stellan's post for Day 13. Stellan spent Easter with us, here are the eggs he found.

Easter with our kids...

Did I mention that it's Caide's first Easter?

Day 167 and Stellan Day 12

2009-04-15T14:39:00.003-04:00

First Stellan- The kids thought that we should take Stellan's picture with the dog, the dog didn't exactly cooperate.

This weekend we went to Wisconsin to pick up our dog, and hang out with my sis-in-law. We decided to take a tour of the Sprecher Brewery, it was much smaller than I thought it would be. We did get samples afterwards of both beer, and soda both were delicious. I highly recommend "Mai Bock".

This guy sat at our table and we managed to spend 2 HOURS chatting with him he was a very ... interesting character.

Day 166 and Stellan post Day 11

2009-04-15T13:49:00.004-04:00

This is part two of the photo shoot that I did with Jessie. I took these in an alley way downtown, we both loved how they turned out.

Stellan post for Day 11 -

165/365 and Stellan Day 10

2009-04-15T12:21:00.003-04:00

I did a photo shoot with one of my dearest friends, teenage daughter. She was so much fun to work with. I love her spunky style, and feel like we were really able to capture it with these photographs.

Doesn't she have the greatest EYES!?

Here is our new Stellan sign...

Stellan Post Day 9

2009-04-09T10:37:00.000-04:00

I almost forgot this picture from the other day! We were out taking pictures and I sent our oldest to take a picture with Stellan and the bridge we were photographing.

164/365 Vintage Chevrolet

2009-04-09T06:45:00.002-04:00

Came across this beauty the other day when I was out!

Stellan Post Day 8

2009-04-08T08:51:00.001-04:00

Another location sign. My kids are loving this and having so much fun "taking" Stellan with us wherever we go.

Stellan updates here.

163/365 Winamac Swinging Bridge

2009-04-08T06:20:00.004-04:00

A friend of mine that sits on the Chamber of Commerce board said that the Chamber was looking for photos of town landmarks for a post card series.

Winamac isn't a large town, so the number of landmarks are limited and have all been photographed 1,000 times the same way. So I decided to give people a look at the same landmarks, but in a different way.

This is my Swinging Bridge series.

Stellan Post Day 7

2009-04-07T11:00:00.001-04:00

Hey Stellan it's your friend Caide!!

LET'S GO!!!

Stellan Updates here!

162/365 Construction

2009-04-07T07:00:00.003-04:00

Our town has been putting in new storm drains in our town. This has been more than a 6 month process and thats just the work they have done on our street.

Right now my neighbors are parking in their yard because there is no road in front of their house. There are two cranes, sitting adjacent to our house. To top it all off there is a 16 foot hole in the middle of our road.

Here is some shots....

Day 161 My Assignment

2009-04-06T06:00:00.002-04:00

As I've written before I'm taking some classes to improve my photography skills.

Here are my assignment photo's from this week. The subject this week was "panning-implying motion". This is actually far more difficult that one would think.

*My instructors review of the above shot.. LOVE this! Merry go rounds are a dying breed- they just aren't around as much as they used to be. I love this and know how you were feeling- been there for sure! LOL! This is really nice and a perfect picture!

Bryan*

The other topic was "freezing action" which was MUCH easier.

Stellan Post Day 6

2009-04-06T06:00:00.001-04:00

Another Stellan post.

Our poor little guy has been back in SVT for a good portion of the last day, pray louder!

Stellan updates here!

Today we've got Stellan with my oldest two kids!

I Heart Faces - Friends and I

2009-04-05T22:06:00.002-04:00

This week at I Heart Faces the topic is "Friends and I."

My kids entry I am going to appropriately title "Boys will be Boys, or Girls?" While over at a friends house one night the girls "attacked" the boys and put make-up on them. The "attack" portion only lasted seconds before I think the boys kind of got into it. :)

This picture comes with a very touching story. Our family is a blended family. When "my" children first met Mike and spent the day with him, my youngest son (at the time), Blayre, exclaimed, "Mike, your my bestest friend EVER!" Both Mike and I were so touched. This is the picture that represents that to us.

This was taken the first week that Mike met Blayre.

Stellan Day 5

2009-04-05T12:00:00.001-04:00

We're back again with another Stellan post, he's still in the hospital so we're still plugging along taking him with us where ever we go!

Stellan has had a bit of a rough weekend flipping back into SVT, keep praying!

As always you can find Stellan's story and updates here.

Here is an idea of Stellan's location today we stopped to grab this by a road sign.

160/365 Getting The Shot.

2009-04-05T09:27:00.005-04:00

Recently I've been asked for specific shots of our river, while I was out I decided to go to a bridge I knew, and see if any shots inspired me there.

As you'll see from the pictures this isn't exactly a working bridge and my husband wasn't all to thrilled that I decided to crawl out into the middle of it so I could get a "specific" shot.

I guess this indicates i've become a real grown-up photographer now, risking injury because it would make a good shot.

I'd love to hear from others what silly stupid things have you done, "for the shot"?

On to the pictures....

Most of these pictures are black and white... our river isn't exactly photogenic especially this time of year. You'll see some ghosting on this shot. This happened because I forgot to take the filter off of my lens. When you have a filter on what happens is light gets trapped between the lens glass and the filter and creates this effect. While some might like it, it's not exactly "correct".

The bridge.

159/365 Saturday April 4, Drive-In

2009-04-04T21:14:00.002-04:00

If there is one thing my family loves is the dawn of spring when we get the notice that the Melody Drive-in is finally opening back up after the winter break!!

With our large family finding something we can afford, and is entertaining for everyone is no small feat. We LOVE summer when the Drive in opens. You get to see not 1 movie but 2! You can bring your own snacks to cut cost, but you also can purchase VERY reasonably priced concessions there.

Being completely honest in my review I think the sodas are a little expensive so we always bring those ourselves. Popcorn and candy is also moderately priced. Far cheaper than most regular theaters, but still a little on the high side considering it's just popcorn. The REAL value, is the food. OH MY it is so delicious and good.

You can get bread sticks (my personal fav) for only 3 dollars. You get a cheeseburger for $2.80. A huge slice of pizza for $2.75. All of it TO DIE FOR!

The drive-in is a little slice of the 1950's right here in 2009. The old fashion speakers that hang on your window are still there and working perfectly.

The staff has always been so kind and courteous, it's clean, and well kept! Seriously, if your at all close to Bass Lake come down and see a movie, your kids will never forget it!

If you don't believe me just check out this line of cars waiting to get it... luckily it moves pretty quickly!

Stellan Post Day 4

2009-04-04T17:33:00.002-04:00

From what I understand today Stellan had a couple bouts of SVT but they were quick and he was able to come out of them on his own!

YAY!

Stellan with Mike!

Stellan Post 3

2009-04-04T17:30:00.002-04:00

Another day of Stellan in the hospital means another day of Stellan posts for all of you!!

From what I hear Stellan is doing great and has been almost 48 hours without a bout of SVT.

Today we took Stellan to the drive-inn theater with us. :)

Day 158 - Cemetery

2009-04-03T06:00:00.000-04:00

Ever go hang out in a cemetery?

What? Why would you want to right?

Are you some sort of weirdo?

No, for me a cemetery is like a museum of history. Unless I am going to visit a specific graveside, I usually head to the back of the cemetery where the chalk white colored marble stones with weather beaten letters sit.

I'm fascinated that these stones have lasted over 100 years, and hold so much history.

Today I stopped by a small cemetery on a back country road and this head stone caught my eye..

Stellan's Post Day 2

2009-04-02T15:33:00.003-04:00

The extra prayers must have helped baby Stellan had a good night!

As promised we're in this for the long haul, while he fights, we'll fight right along with him.

Here is todays picture. We took him with us while I went out shooting pictures.

Day 157 - Cigars

2009-04-02T15:15:00.002-04:00

My husband enjoys an occasional cigar in the summer time, so for his birthday when I couldn't figure out what to get him for his birthday I went to our local Cigar shop and picked him up some for a gift.

Last night he decided to partake in one... He hates having his picture taken so as I was walking away I snapped this without even looking.

Not to shabby for not looking...

Day 156 - For Stellan

2009-04-01T15:15:00.003-04:00

I first heard the story of Stellan from my friend Natalie, in her blog.

If you don't know Stellan's story you can read it here..

The short version is that little 5 month old Stellan was diagnosed with heart problem while still in utero. His parents were told that he would not survive birth, but he did! Not only did he survive birth but he's also made it now to 5 MONTHS!!

Unfortunately his heart is having trouble now and keeps going in and out of SVT, Supraventricular Tachycardia.

I've been feeling very helpless. I've thought of them every day, several times a day since I first heard of his story. What i've seen is that one thing that seems to bring them a lot of joy is knowing that people all over the world are thinking of them, praying for them, loving them...people they have never met.

Several people have taken Stellan's name and photographed at the Eiffel tower, in Argentina. They have written his name in the sandy grains of beaches from Iowa to Senegal.

I wish I lived some place as awesome as some of these places where I could take Stellan, alas I'm just a small town momma in the midwest. So instead I've decided that, I want to show this Mom that she is not alone. Everyday so many people are in this fight with her, her family, and of course Stellan.

As a tribute to him, everyday until Stellan is well and and out of the hospital, I will take Stellan with us and photograph him with my family.

Little Stellan the world is watching, praying, and loving you... stay strong little man!!

Stellan : This is Caide, he's just a couple months older than you, and would like to be friends. We decided today that we would take you to the park to swing and play, just what two little boys should be doing on a playdate!

Day 155 - Is Winter Really Gone?

2009-04-01T14:42:00.003-04:00

Today I was walking inside my house and saw our snow shovel. For a second I thought I should go ahead and put that away, and then I stopped... I can't put it away. The way things go if I put that shovel away, a blizzard will surely follow.

So you can all rest assured if your in northern Indiana, I have left my shovel sitting by my side door and in turn have saved us all from the return of old man winter.

Can you see the little tulip starting to peak up behind the shovel... will it last?

If you can't tell our shovel is very very old...VERY.

Minds Eye - Towers

2009-04-01T11:25:00.003-04:00

Well what do you know I'm late... again.

Is there some way to set these to post automatically? Maybe those of you who have been on Blogger longer have answers for me. Until then, I again apologize.

This weeks Mind's Eye is "Towers", my submission is for a local water tower.

Next week's theme is - "BUBBLES"!

Let's see your Towers for the week... make sure you link back here in your blog so others come to participate!

Day 154 - Family Fun

2009-03-31T13:28:00.001-04:00

While we were in Wisconsin this weekend, the entire family got together for my Father-in-laws birthday. Not very often do we really get to cut up, but this weekend everyone was in a great mood and up for a little partying.

Admittedly these pictures aren't the greatest, the flash really washed out many of these, thats why they are all black and white.

Thanks for letting loose with us Mom and Dad.

Kyrsten and Glenn goofing off, I kept trying to get a picture of the cute couple but they would have nothing to do with it. Instead I got this.

Mom got caught with the can of Whipped Cream...

So she tried to pretend she was giving it to the dogs...

Day 153 - Vintage Trains

2009-03-30T17:32:00.004-04:00

I mentioned in my last post about the places photography has taken me, but did I mention how photography has made me "SEE?" Instead of walking through life missing out on the world around me, every where I go I think, "hmm how could I make that into a picture?"

This weekend we were on the road when suddenly I screamed, "HONEY!! STOP!! Go over there!"

What did I see but some vintage trains sitting out. Oh what an opportunity, not only do I love anything vintage, but something so unique.

So my loving husband turned the car around and I got out to claim my prize.

While I was shooting I saw a woman coming near me, so I almost sheepishly asked if it was ok that I was there taking pictures. She said, "OF COURSE, just be careful over here..." and pointed to a pile of pieced and parts.

A few minutes later her husband appeared and they both gave me some information about the cars that were there. I asked if it would be possible for me to go inside one to take some pictures, but the cars outside were locked. Instead he took me into a "garage" where some of their working cars were. It was pretty dark so getting good shots of the inside was a bit difficult but he was able to turn on a few lights so I could get some. (Click here to see the car I was in.)

The gentleman that helped me was a wealth of information, telling me everything from the history of the cars and the fact that they were indeed a working railroad, to how the trains work! I left so excited I can't WAIT to take our kids back on a ride this summer.

If you want to visit this train station too it is a great piece of history. The cars are all refurbished but kept "original".

Check out the website and if you are in the area go visit them. I can't wait until summer to go take a ride on history!

East Troy Electric Railroad

This brake gauge is still in working condition, whenever this car is in use.

Day 152 - Signs from Milwaukee

2009-03-30T15:38:00.004-04:00

Photography has taken me to a lot of places, this week it took me to a ... rougher part of Milwaukee. You'd be amazed at all the photo opportunities!

This day I decided to focus on some signs that I thought were visually appealing.

Day 151 - Back to Wisconsin

2009-03-30T12:43:00.004-04:00

One thing I love about my husband is his unconditional support. He often goes out of his way to learn more about my photography hobby, even more he is always thinking of some cool place to take me to take pictures.

This weekend was no different, he had told me before about the Milwaukee Art Museum, and this weekend he took me so that I could take my own pictures.

It really is a stunning piece of architecture/art.

Unfortunately, it was overcast and kind of gloomy but I still got decent pictures of both the museum and the shore.

I Heart Faces - Pets and Kids

2009-03-29T23:03:00.002-04:00

This week over at I Heart Faces, there is the usual kid category, but also another week of PETS!!

This week I am only going to participate in the "Pets" category.

Day 150 Happy Anniversary Mike

2009-03-27T11:25:00.002-04:00

Yesterday was my wedding anniversary. What a wonderful day.

This is a blog post I made the day after we got married.

5 days ...
Five days... 5 days can seem like a life time or so very short. You can waste 5 days doing nothing or you could spend 5 days deciding to get married, flying for the first time, landing in a state you have never been in, going to a road side stand in Tijuana and having tacos. In 5 days you could try mahi mahi, you could hold a crab in your hand and worry that it will pinch. You could see your first sea urchin, you could rent your first car, you could learn to speak very broken spanish. In 5 days you could stand on a beach in San Diego, barefoot at sunset holding the man of your dreams hands and saying I do. All without a care in the world, the smell of salt water in your nose. The feeling of having sandy grains under your feet all while waves crash against the rocks behind you.

If you haven't figured it out yet, Thursday night after a long discussion with my mother I realized that I just wanted to marry the man I love, the man also known as my best friend. It didn't matter when, where, or how I just wanted it to happen. Jokingly we talked about eloping, then suddenly light bulbs went off in our heads and we said... ya know that isn't such a bad idea. So Friday Mike frantically searched and called me with the news... we could pull it off, we were going to San Diego to get married.

Today was the day... March 26th at approx. 6:30pm I married Michael James Lyon. I am now Mrs. Lyon.

I could not be happier. He has made all my dreams come true and I am looking forward to a wonderful life with him.

Don't anyone be offended only 3 people knew we were coming here. Mikes parents dont even know. More later...

Thank you, Honey, for a WONDERFUL Anniversary, I love you more today than I did that day. You've forever changed my life for the better.

Isn't he the most handsome man ever? He hates when I take his picture but he's so darn photogenic.

The eyes... I still get lost in them every time I look at him.

Finally a cute picture, the kids wanted to make Mike and I brownies for our anniversary. I bit the bullet and let them do it all by themselves. They were... a very thoughtful gift. :)

Day 149 More Spring Break

2009-03-27T10:44:00.002-04:00

I took these at my Mom's house the kids love playing over there. We went over originally to help pick up sticks, but then spent a little extra time being kids.

Someone PLEASE make him stop growing. This past week I've just felt like his "babiness" is so close to being over, and it's making my heart ache. He'll be 10 months old in just over a week. *sigh* Where has 10 months gone??

Mason doing what boys do, climbing trees.

My Mom's dog Cayman, the kids love to go over and play with him.

148/365 - Day at the Beach

2009-03-24T21:59:00.008-04:00

I had grand plans to take my kids to a picnic lunch at the beach. I knew the water would be too cold, but I thought we could check out the lighthouse, and play in the sand.

Well you know the saying about good intentions....

The forecast said it would be breezy... when they say "breezy" I assume it means a slight breeze blowing every once in a while, not 50 MPH gusting winds. 50 MPH plus sand equals ouch. The kids were great and sucked it up. They were happy to play and fend off the sand in their eyes.

Finally I was the party pooper and after an hour and a half I decided I had had enough. So we left, but I did get a few pictures.

The Lighthouse!

Now the kids... This first one is my favorite from the day.

Day 147 - Tents

2009-03-24T21:49:00.002-04:00

The kids are home for spring break, and have decided to make a tent. This is the tent, they slept in there last night. I'm really enjoying spring break.

I Heart Faces- No Flash

2009-03-22T23:42:00.004-04:00

This week over at I Heart Faces the theme is "no flash".

This is my kids entry for the week.

This was lite, completely by the flash light that Caide was holding. It also helped that I was using a 1.8 lens.

This is my adult entry. This was taken at the Chinese New Years parade in Chinatown, Chicago.

Mind's Eye - Food

2009-03-22T23:32:00.003-04:00

This week for Mind's Eye the theme is "Food".

Show me your favorite food pictures.

Next week's theme will be "Towers". So start thinking ahead now!!

Day 146 The Great Flood of 09

2009-03-22T23:05:00.002-04:00

These are from today, 1 week after I took these pictures.

This is what the park looks like today.

In case you forgot, this is what it looked like a week ago.

From today..

From last week... a crappy picture, but it's all I have for a comparison.

Here is a view from the bridge above. I was able to get to it today and this is taken from me standing in the middle.

As you can see there is still some flooding, but things are drying up slowly.

Day 145 Random Pictures from Saturday

2009-03-22T22:39:00.002-04:00

Shadow Games

Sides of a building that I liked.

Day 144 Happy Birthday Mike!

2009-03-22T22:24:00.003-04:00

March 20th 2009 My wonderful, incredibly handsome husband turned 29!! Happy Birthday Honey.

After a nice dinner out with no kids, and a few drinks with friends we came home to hang out with Rick and Krysten. Thanks for coming over and celebrating with us guys!!

Day 143 Sunset

2009-03-22T22:15:00.002-04:00

This is not the greatest picture but the sun was so bright, I decided to post it anyway. I think some filters would have helped me out here.

Day 142 Kids

2009-03-22T19:30:00.003-04:00

Our kids checking out the semi-receded flood waters.

Day 141 Happy St. Paddy's Day!

2009-03-17T21:57:00.002-04:00

I was playing with bubbles... Have a little green for St. Paddy's Day!!

I Heart Faces - Green

2009-03-17T21:18:00.003-04:00

It's another week over at I heart Faces and this week's theme is Green!!

This is my "kids" entry...

Mind's Eye - Locomotion (Planes, Trains, and Automobiles)

2009-03-16T23:03:00.004-04:00

I'm a little late for Mind's Eye this week, but never fear I'm still carrying on.

This week is Locomotion. I want to see pictures of anything that moves.

I'd like to get more people participating, so make sure you link people back here in your blogs.

Here are my pictures for this week...

Next weeks theme is going to be "Food", so start thinking ahead.

Now show me your pictures for this week!!

1. frankphoto

2. Shane

Day 140/365 The Aftermath

2009-03-16T22:39:00.003-04:00

Tonight we took a walk after dinner to see how the flooding was and it has started to recede but some of the damage is already visible.

The road has buckled here.

Here you can see where the road has been hallowed out underneath.

Day 139/365 Assignments

2009-03-16T22:15:00.003-04:00

I've been taking some photography classes, and this is one of my submissions.

This was my instructors critique!!

Allyson,

This is absolutely stunning and your reaction to this shot is natural for making your first blurry shot on purpose- I mean, we are supposed to have sharp shots, right? The composition is perfect here, I love the background and the motion is captivating to the viewer, as you can see by the comments! This is a PERFECT PICTURE!

Bryan

I'm so thrilled!!

138 The Height of the Flooding

2009-03-16T21:43:00.002-04:00

Our river finally crested at 15.8ft. This is the the highest I've ever seen the river in my entire life living here.

When we went down to take a look there were cars and people everywhere. I guess this is the excitement when you live in a small town.

(If you remember this is what it looked like on Saturday)

(This is a picture from Saturday at it's highest stage)

This is the current that is going over the sidewalk and across the road.

This is a boat people are using to get from their house to the road.

Day 137 VW at it's best!

2009-03-16T21:11:00.002-04:00

We were going out of town when I spied this out of our rear view mirror. I LOVE these old vans! I turned around in my seat and shot these out of our rear window while Mike drove.

Day 136/365 More Flooding

2009-03-12T21:03:00.002-04:00

I went out today and documented more of the flooding in our area.

Usually you see a road closed sign and water is covering part of the road. This road just disappeared. Once it went under the water I couldn't see where the road resurfaced. It was a really incredible site.

Day 135 Floods

2009-03-11T21:48:00.002-04:00

We've gotten non-stop rain for the past several days, which has caused some major flooding around here.

FORECAST...THE RIVER WILL RISE TO A CREST NEAR 15.1 FEET AROUND 8
PM THURSDAY MARCH 12 AND BEGIN FALLING. THIS CREST WOULD BE THE
SECOND HIGHEST CREST ON RECORD

This house had a boat by their front door and their cars parked by the street. The door was open, and it looked as though people were indeed living their and using the boat to get back and for to the street.

The footpath of this bridge is usually about 12 feet above water. Today it was 3-4.

Flooded roads.

A New Series...

2009-03-11T16:02:00.002-04:00

In my pursuit of new things to photograph, I have decided I would like to start a new series.

Many of you are probably familiar with "Day in the Life" photos. If not, basically it's a series of photographs that someone takes throughout the day documenting their life and what they see.

I've decided to add a twist. I'd like to document the life of all kinds of different people. From a school teacher to a dairy farmer, from an executive to the homeless.

Do you have an interesting life that you think would be fun to document?

Would you not mind me following you around taking snap shots of your life all day?

I'd like to hear from you. I'd like to know what your world is like, and I'd like to let everyone else see it too!

If your interested in letting me do a day in YOUR life contact me at allysonlyonphotography@gmail.com.

Just include a brief introduction and I'll get back to you.

If you know someone else that would like this, pass this along to everyone... the more the merrier.

Allyson

Day 134

2009-03-11T11:35:00.002-04:00

This is a picture I took yesterday for a class I'm taking. I'm not submitting this one, but it is part of project 365.

Day 133 Caide in the bath

2009-03-11T11:29:00.003-04:00

Day 132 Self-Portrait

2009-03-11T11:26:00.002-04:00

A little blurry.

Day 131 Coming home.

2009-03-11T10:45:00.003-04:00

These are from Saturday on our way home from Florida.

I Heart Faces - Creative Crop

2009-03-09T09:12:00.002-04:00

Time once again for I Heart Faces and this weeks theme is "Creative Crop".

I knew just which photo I was going to use for my adult but I've had a hard time deciding on a kids entry. Either way this is what I decided on.

My adult entry... This is a self portrait with my husband on our honeymoon. I've always loved the way it turned out, and even went as far as to frame it and put it on our wall.

My kids entry.. Kendyl after playing in the hose, she was cold.

Mind's Eye - Family

2009-03-08T22:43:00.005-04:00

It's another week for Mind's Eye! I just upgraded Mr.Linky so I can have more than one Mr. Linky running at once. My intentions are to run them two weeks and then close the link leaving only those who have participated still linked up.

So onto the fun! This weeks theme is "FAMILY". I thought it would be nice to see the families of those of you that follow my blog.

Don't forget to spread the word!! The more people that participate the more fun this will be!

Lastly, next week's theme is going to be "LOCOMOTION" anything that moves, I want to see your pictures.

I just got back from Florida to visit my husband's grandmother. This is a picture of our two youngest boys, Mike, and his grandmother. We had a GREAT visit.

Now let's see your Family!!

Day 130 Last day in Florida

2009-03-07T08:59:00.002-05:00

What a day it was... not only was it full of "firsts" for Caide, I got some great pictures of Great Grandma with the boys.

Caide has been standing holding on to me for some time, but yesterday he stood all on his own. I'm pretty sure I saw the look of ... "huh, now what?!".. on his face.

Also at the pool the three amigo's... None are related to us, I just liked the picture.

Caide meets ice cream...

My most favorite shot of the weekend.

Day 129 Day at the Beach.

2009-03-05T20:41:00.003-05:00

Today we went to Sharky's by the Pier to try and find shells and sharks teeth, it was a plethora of photo opportunities.

Don't forget!

2009-03-05T20:19:00.002-05:00

This weeks theme for is "blur". Have you submitted your project yet?

Next weeks theme will be "family"!

Day 128

2009-03-05T16:37:00.002-05:00

We're in Florida visiting family. Here are some pictures from our trip so far.

The lady of the hour.. Grandma Santos.

The first picture I've gotten of Caide and his teeth.

Blayre playing in the pool.

A little of the "wildlife"..