"Oh, Christmas Tree..."

It is the day after Thanksgiving, and we all know what that means! At this house, it's time to decorate the Christmas tree; it is a tradition I started when my oldest child was born. As I passed by a tree farm the other day, memories of searching for "the perfect tree" came flooding back...we always took the kids to the tree farm to pick out the tree. Yes,with trees being cut down every few minutes, it smelled like Christmas at every turn...they also let the kids "help" cut the tree down, much to their delight. We would go home, make hot chocolate and play Christmas music while decorating the tree. Hopefully, these are the memories they will keep in their hearts forever. The squeals of delight when it was decorated, and the anticipation of what Santa would bring, were so sweet. I've kept every one of their keepsake and handmade ornaments and it's not Christmas to me, if I haven't decorated with them...(glitter on eggcartons, popsicle sticks, you name it)along with the traditional Hallmark ornaments. Thankful for these traditions, but mostly thankful for my children who made it all possible! Here's to peace, health and happiness this holiday and always...we never forget that Jesus is the reason for the season!

The Good Old Days

As I drove by the baseball field recently, I was reminded of the not so long ago days when my children played sports...softball and baseball. We enjoyed their games so much (they might say too much)! It was really sad when the last child played his last high school game...I cried like a baby about half the way home! When I cleaned out the closet a couple of days ago, I found my shirt that all the Moms proudly wore, mine of course had his number, 33 on the back...you never know when I may want to wear it again. Before you feel sad about all this, let me share with you that we now have a 2 year old grandson who will surely follow in his Dad's footsteps on the ball field...the child can throw a ball like nobody's business! Certainly, he'll be an All Star pitcher like his Dad was, and the whole family will get to relive those days again...I wonder if he'll say, like my son did, "Mom, I always knew you were there, even if I was concentrating on the game and couldn't look...I recognized your scream". Yes, I think I screamed louder and longer than some of the Moms, but there were a couple with the same amount of spirit that I had. The most embarrassing moments for the kids were when things went wrong, I would still yell something positive, like "that's ok, it was a good try!!!" Deep down, I think they appreciated it so much...

Steve Vecchi

Recently, I had the honor of being commissioned by Steve Vecchi to photograph his concert. I must say, it was the most fun I've ever had on the job! He covered several Frank Sinatra songs and performed some of his own...he is so talented. Enjoy the photos!

Got It !!!

It took a few tries, but I got the hummingbird shot!! It's a lovely Saturday morning and she looks very happy!!! Have a great weekend...

Hummingbird Watch

Sitting on the porch in the mornings is one of my favorite things. I love drinking coffee in my rocking chair, and listening to the sounds of nature-birds singing, crickets, and whatever else is out there that day! A couple of days ago, as I was sitting there, I heard a different sound...low and behold there was a sweet little hummingbird drinking out of the feeder...I never dreamed I would live in a place so quiet, that I could hear the whirring of hummingbird wings!!! It really is all about the simple things...Since then I've tried to capture a shot of him (with the camera of course) to no avail. Will post a pic whenever, if ever, I can get one. They are truly elusive and much faster than me! Stay tuned...

Bayou Country

Bayous are common here and sometimes we take them for granted...this week I really have enjoyed the bayou that runs across the farm where I raised my children. The most delightful part of the day, was holding hands with my precious grandson while we looked for baby "duckies"! He loves this sort of "duck hunting" whenever we visit. And, indeed, there are 19 baby ducks. Thanks for stopping by, enjoy the bayou pics!!!

More Flowers!