austinimagesphotography.com

I'VE MOVED!

2009-07-09T08:42:00.003-05:00

This is to inform you that My Blog has moved.

Please adjust your bookmark as I will no longer
be posting here at Blogger.
My blog and website are both accessible at the
new location.

Thank You.

Sue

happy birthday blog!

2009-07-08T07:55:00.014-05:00

Happy Birthday to my blog!
Today my Blog is 3 years old.
Today also marks the day that I will be moving
my blog over to WordPress thanks mostly to
Marc Fuller! I thank Marc Fuller for working his
tail off in getting my blog moved and helping
me along the way to create a place where I can
continue sharing and have more creative control.

Unfortunately, I have much to do still so
I will postpone my new site for another day
or so...sorry. Life gets in the way sometimes!

When I started blogging I had no idea what
joy I would find in writing and sharing.
It quickly became something that, now, ranks
in the top 5 things that I adore doing.
I have really enjoyed writing (nearly daily)
and keeping you in touch with my world be it
professional or personal.

I have also met some amazing people along the way
through my blog and if life is really about the
relationships we make then my blog has enriched
mine beyond belief so keep the comments coming!

I would like to take a moment to wish my brother,
Tim, a very happy birthday! I love you, Tim.

Rosanne Cash @ Dakota.

2009-07-06T07:13:00.011-05:00

(all shot with a Canon 1D Mark 3 and the 85 1.8)

WOW! First of all, we get there and we are sitting
at a table right in front of the stage. Second, we had
dinner there (and the food was outSTANDING!). Third, to
my surprise, they allowed photography...no flash. duh.
Didn't know we'd be able to but brought our cameras
along anyway, just in case. I debated...do I bring the 50
1.4 or the 85 1.8? I brought the 85. Tonight, as Sandi
purchased tickets for both shows back in April, I will
bring the 50. Tonight, our seats are to Rosanne's left
think a little wider might be nice.

Here's what the Star Tribune had to say about last night's
performance.

This really is a terrific place to see an artist up
close and personal. I will watch for future gigs and
hit the Dakota more often!
Thanks, Sandi, for recommending it and coming to Minne-
apolis to share it with me (all the way from DC!).

Seems you never really know what's in your own back yard
until someone comes from out of town to enlighten you! :)
Sandi loves Rosanne Cash and now...so do I!
Watch for her new CD,"The List", to drop October 6th.
I know I'm looking forward to it!

My Blog is Moving!

2009-07-02T06:28:00.001-05:00

This has been on the back burner for a long time.
My good friend, Marc Fuller, has been putting up with
me for a while now and as we get things organized for
the launch on July 8th (my blog's 3 year anniversary!)
you can continue to stop here.

Soon, all of what you've come to know about me and my
business will have a new address, a fresh look and a
FABulous feel. I'll post a link here permanently just
in case you forget and pop by after the 8th of July.

My web site will stay in tact and you will be able to
access all of my previous blogs and site information
by simply wandering over to my new WordPress address.

Some people call it a "Blogsite" as it sort of embodies
both Blog and Website capabilities I'll just refer to
it as my new home. I'd better get back to packing! :)

So sit back and enjoy the transformation. It's certain
to please with more fun than ever before!

Thank you Marc Fuller, for all of your guidance, ideas
and patience!

I'm so excited for you to see it!

So Sad...

2009-06-26T06:38:00.003-05:00

King of Pop and Farrah Fawcett pass away.
Now, while Farrah Fawcett's passing away yesterday
after her 3 year battle of anal cancer was,
to quote EVERYONE, "expected" this does by no
means make me feel any less about her passing.
As a child of the 60's/70's I idolized her right
along with the rest of America (I will do my best
to scan in some shots of me sporting the "Farrah"
hair do soon!). I still can't believe that she
only spent a year on "Charlie's Angels". For some
reason it seemed to me to span more time.

The Michael Jackson news was a smack in the face.
This is up there with Diana, Elvis just to name 2.
I watched the NBC Dateline Special last night
and it made me really think. Perhaps because I am
getting older, or maybe just because as we age we
look more closely at our own mortality, our health,
our genes, science...or all of it.
As I watched the piece on Michael Jackson
it occurred to me...Holy Crap! He was only 50!
This can only spur you in the path of righteousness
when you are 47.

When I quit smoking, over 6 years ago (really, no
applause necessary), I knew that I was embarking on a
longer life. A life to be shared with those whom I
love...longer. I, to this day, don't know how much longer
but the choice was mine and I made it.

When we make healthy choices for ourselves they aren't
always easy but with all the research out there and
our family health histories staring us in the face,
these decisions, at some point, seem simple enough, right?

I am a Christian first, and everything else second.
I know that God has a plan for my life and yours and
I also know that I/we am/are responsible for heeding
God's promptings (not to mention the text on the side
of a pack of cigarettes). This does not mean that if I
follow the rules I'll live a long life...that would be
irresponsible of me...history is a great teacher.

Life teaches many lessons, that's God's job. It's our
job to show up, sit up and pay attention.

Yesterday's losses prove that God is in control, nothing is
forever, and to treat everyday as if it was your last.

These two icons (and American historical figures) will
live on in all of us as I plan to grab life, hang on
and pray that God allows me the opportunity to leave
a legacy of my own.

Please do what you can to refrain from the media swarm
of Michael Jackson's children as they are innocent
victims and young lives suffering a loss of a beloved
father.

Thanks for allowing me to ramble....
God Bless and welcome back to the US Nicki & Gemma!

Landmark Center Photoshoot.

2009-06-23T13:07:00.010-05:00

Thank you Robin for taking the time to drive up and bring along
your daughter, Brynn and her friend, Ryan! It was a HOT
one but we got the job done. Thanks Brynn & Ryan for being
such willing participants for us! I'll get the images to you soon.

We met up at The St. Paul Hotel but we started at the
Landmark Center. Such a cool place to shoot for a day.
We waltzed on over to the Ordway for a few shots and
once we wrapped things up there, we stopped off for a change
of clothes and a bite at the St. Paul Grill.
Then we crossed Rice Park and headed for the Library.
Here's a couple of shots from the afternoon.

Thanks again, Robin. Let's do this again real soon.

I'm always looking for models. Contact me!

Happy Father's Day!

2009-06-21T08:56:00.005-05:00

In my mind and my heart I will always celebrate my father!
It's been nearly 26 years since he took his own life.
This was back when depression and things like Prozac were
not talked about because it might indicate that the rest of
the family might be "nuts". Suicide was a term that we,
as a family, quickly discovered had a badge of shame that
came along with it. I mean, how could you possibly explain
this? What did we do to him? How could we let it happen,
or better, how could you not see this? I was 21.
My mom was 45, Tim was 25, Scott was 23, Anne was 12 and
Mike almost 9. Tough new life for a single mom.We are all
suicide survivors. There should be a ribbon for that too.

We learn in our living that we were not responsible for
other peoples actions....only our own. So how do you move
forward? How do you heal? Family. Everything always comes
down to family. You stick together. Always. Siblings, no
matter how different we are our basic need is to be accepted
and loved. And in my family? We are. I love and miss my dad.
Sadly now I realize that I've lived more of my life without
him than with him. Did I mention that I miss my dad?

Happy Father's Day to all the dads here on earth and in
the Heaven!

New iPhone and AT&T

2009-06-18T08:01:00.008-05:00

Lots of stuff going on regarding the newest releases
of upgrades/updates for the Apple iPhone.
Lots of disgruntled folks out there feeling the pain.
Also, the newest iPhone will be available tomorrow morning!

This morning I learned that, overnight, AT&T had lifted
their restrictions do to the pandemonium that they, themselves,
caused placing me poised for a new iPhone! I've thoroughly
enjoyed my first generation iPhone for nearly 2 years and I do
believe it's time to upgrade! So, I will join my brother-in-law,
Doug, at the Mall of America Apple Store early tomorrow morning.
Not going to go with the 32Gs, that's just insane!
Think I'll stick with the 16Gs. Looking forward to all the
speed and newest generation apps & features.
Once I complete the transaction I will have a 1st genny
iPhone, complete with the new 3.0 update and tons of apps
up for grabs! Craig's List? Anyone?...Anyone?..Bueler?

Moving on...
Going out on my first "Rock The Senior" shoot today!
Something I thought up long ago to enhance traditional
senior sessions. Kind of like a "Trash The Dress" session
(for Brides and grooms) meets "Senior Session" but
I didn't dare refer to it as "Trash The Senior"!
Didn't think many parents would go for that :\
The timing seemed right so I embark on this new vision
today and I'm excited to have Jessie work with me today!

Here, I will approach the shoot like I always do then
stop, switch it up with radical hair and make-up
(being a hairdresser for 28 years helps), and go into
more dramatic imagery. The guys are welcome too.
A teeny bit of eyeliner and some whacked out hair
or a hop in the lake will transcend your traditional
session into more of a fashion-editorial look.
I canNOT wait to get started! Spots are limited
throughout the summer but be sure to visit my
Rock The Senior group page on Facebook and check here
periodically for gallery additions as well as my
SmugMug site

Interested? Think you can handle it? Want to stand out?
Contact me today regarding an ultimate senior session!

Adding Rock The Senior to your senior session carries
additional fees.

Refer 3 friends and earn a FREE Rock The Senior session!

Let's ROCK!

Canon 15mm Fisheye vs. Sigma 10mm Fisheye

2009-06-17T06:43:00.009-05:00

Well, the Fisheye Lens simply got it's name from it's obvious
appearance. The way that these lenses protrude mimics
an actual fish eye thus giving spherical dimension to an image.

Here's a couple of samples from my Canon 15mm 2.8

**Keep in mind that the closer you are to your subject
with a fisheye lens, the stronger the distortion.
It's really a fun lens to have in your bag!

Now here's a few from the Sigma 10mm 2.8

Oh, and the bottom 3 (of Boo) I had placed the Sigma
lens on my 10D so you can see a dark vignette around
the images. That's because unlike my Mark 3, the 10D
does not have a full frame sensor therefore you get that
lovely (yuck) black vignette around your images. Not nice.

Well, they both run between $650 and $700 so be sure
that you get what you want/need. B&H was happy to allow
me the time to order the Sigma, test them side by side
and then return one. I chose to return the Sigma...for now!

Enjoy.

Beth + Tim

2009-06-15T08:57:00.009-05:00

Hey there...another wedding come and gone.
I told Tim, "thanks for breaking my rain streak!"

This was a perfect wedding day. Could not have asked
God for anymore on this day. Everything went as smooth
as silk throughout and before we knew it, it was over.

Thank you Beth & Tim for allowing me this wonderful
opportunity to come along side you and photograph your
wedding for you. By the time I left, I felt like family!

Here's some teasers for you.
Be sure to click on "view images" then in the upper
right hand side click on "full screen".
Congratulations, enjoy.

Same Sex Marriage In Iowa.

2009-06-13T09:06:00.009-05:00

Today, as I was preparing for a wedding that I'm
shooting here in Minneapolis, Gary was preparing for
a trip down to Iowa to be a witness at his very best
friend's (Jimbo) sister's (Suzie) wedding.
Are ya with me so far?

Due to the fact that same sex marriages are now legal
in the state of Iowa, Suzie & Mary decided to go for it!

Suzie and Mary, long time partners, will tie the knot
in Des Moines, Iowa in a 15 minute ceremony later today
(first things first...Gary and Jimbo will golf down there
today!). :D SHOCKER!

I was so disappointed to learn that they would have
the ceremony today of all days. I really wanted to be
there. These are some great people and I would have
loved to be there to witness the joy...not to mention
a little history in the making.
Congratulations Suzie & Mary on this very momentous
occasion!

Are You Ready?

2009-06-12T12:04:00.005-05:00

How long have we been waiting for the "switch to digital".
I mean, Holy Hannah, bring it on already and quit talking
about it. Are YOU ready? YES! I've been ready for over a
year now! Let's GO! :D

Got another "fisheye" lens today.
I wasn't certain that the Canon 15mm 2.8 actually distorted
enough so I purchased the Sigma 10mm 2.8 to compare and
it arrived today WHOA! Now THAT'S some distortion!

I'll post my comparisons later. Pretty cool tho'.

Jenny + Andy

2009-06-10T08:14:00.004-05:00

Jenny, Andy and I got together a couple of Sunday's
ago in St. Paul to photograph their Engagement Session.
And even tho' this link takes you to their entire shoot,
I thought I'd toss a few images up on the blog too.

For a larger view, please click "view all images" then
in the upper right hand corner click "full screen".

Lunch with John Sather.

2009-06-06T09:20:00.005-05:00

Yesterday I had the pleasure of getting together with a dear friend, John Sather, of Here's Life Inner City to discuss all sorts of stuff. First, we had to catch up! John has had me come along side his foundation and others for the past, oh...I'd say at least 5 years. Fund raisers, MN Twins games, Campus Crusade rallies, Food Drives, Lens Crafters event for inner city kids...all awesome life fulfilling events !

I adore John and his drive for community. It's infectious! I want to surround myself with more folks like him. It doesn't get any better than giving! John always says, "Let's get together and dream." LOVE that!
That said, John recommended that we meet at a favorite neighborhood restaurant of his, Cafe Ena, on 46th & Grand in Minneapolis.

Wow! What a great find! Tucked back a few blocks west of 35 W. Menu is simple and delicious. The Ower and Executive Chef is Hector Ruiz.
Run, don't walk (but remember that the 46th exit is temporarily closed at 35W). So exit
on Diamond Lake Rd, take a right on Nicollet, head to 46th, take a left on 46th and go about 4 blocks..it's up on your LEFT at the corner! FYI, they only serve beer & wine
but have an enormous selection. Buen Provecho!

New Pro Site 4 Viewing/Purchasing!

2009-06-01T06:59:00.002-05:00

WOW! It's JUNE!!! WHAT?

Yay! I'm so excited to share with you my newest toy.
Well, first there was the fisheye lens a couple of weeks
ago but NOW I have a new site in which you can view &
purchase my stuff. I'm still playing around with it a
little but here it is ~ SmugMug.
I'd love to know what you think. I mean about things like
the functionality of it and all (well the images too, go
ahead and comment on them as well!).

I had the most FABulous time yesterday morning with
Jenn & Andy. I had them meet me in St. Paul Sunday morning
and we traipsed around for awhile and even ended up at
the Farmer's Market. Jenn and Andy were so awesome!
They were willing participants and were open to suggestion.
We hit this grungy alley way and had some fun. LOVE St. Paul!
Well, I plan to work on their images this week so check back
in a few days I'm certain to put up some teasers for you.

Happy Anniversary, Gary!

2009-05-28T06:03:00.004-05:00

Wow! I haven't blogged in a few days. I'm so very sorry
to all my loyal readers. I promise you that this will not
continue. I know it's nearly summer now and things are likely
to get a bit out of hand as the Wedding and Portrait season
goes full blast but that doesn't mean that I will put off
blogging.

Okay, now that that's out in the open, I want to wish my
husband of nearly 11 years a happy 14th anniversary.
It was on this day that after about a year of knowing one
another that we finally...well..decided to date.
Our first date? An REM concert. It was magical.
Not Gary...being that close to Michael Stipe! ;)
Happy Anniversary Gary!

Yesterday we lost power shortly after my day began so I
was forced to move clients to today making today the longest
of the week.

My iMac is off at Gary's brother's getting everything
re-installed. Something happened and I ended up having to
reboot, it seemed, every time I changed applications.
Thank goodness for my new MacBook Pro! I just plugged in my
external TB and voila!! I'm back in business!

Hey, have a fabulous day.
Finish something you started! :D

Kate + Tom.

2009-05-22T08:22:00.013-05:00

Kate & Tom are getting married on July 25th of this year.
I'm photographing their wedding and earlier this week
we selected Tuesday to get together for their engagement
session at Lake Harriet in Minneapolis.

They are HUGE into fishing and so the plan was to bring
their boat along and get some fun shots out on the water.
God had other plans for us. Despite the cutest pink
tackle box I've ever seen! ;)

With the end of the day approaching, the wind gusts reached
as much as 30 MPH that evening and into the next day.
Not optimal for any kind of shoot (unless you're
shooting a regatta!). Yea, white caps all the way to shore!

We made an executive decision to park the boat, head down
the bird sanctuary path and grab some shots there, out of
the wind...

From there, with the wind still howling, we drove around the lake
and popped into Tryg's to get some fun atmosphere images.
It was packed. The temp reached 97 degrees that day which ended up
shattering a 100+ year old record so everyone was out!

Happy Birthday Emily!

2009-05-20T13:05:00.007-05:00

Today my niece, Emily, turns 12!
Sunday, she and I got together to do our annual thing
of hair and a fashion/photo shoot. I look forward to
this every year for every birthday for all the kids!

Now, in that most 12 year old girls don't get their hair
colored, let's keep in mind that this is what I do and
of course a little color is fun, right? So I get to spend some
quality time with my nieces and nephews, and then photograph
them in a way that most parents wouldn't ordinarily think of.
I mean, what's an Aunt to do when armed with the tools!

If you are interested in giving this sort of gift to someone you
know and love, please contact me for a personalized quote.
Let's leave the school photos in the year books and on the fridge!
It's time to create some timeless images of your children.
This is not your mother's glamour shots! ;)
And as always, I keep each session age appropriate.

Happy Birthday Emily! I love you.

Weisure....

2009-05-16T08:17:00.007-05:00

That's right, "Weisure".
Were work combines with leisure.
Sara France posted this on twitter late last
night and I happened to catch it this morning.

I have fallen victim to this myself in that I work
mostly from home.
I've been twittering for more than a year, I've even
twittered and uploaded images to Facebook between
ceremonies and receptions and I've also uploaded images
to both while at NACE functions, PUG meetings and
TCPPA programs, just to mention a few.

It's a way of letting folks know what I'm up to
whether it be professional or personal. And it's fun!
Gary doesn't get it (nor will he ever) and that's okay.
He does read my blog from time to time tho' and he's a fan.

I was told, once, that it's narcissistic to assume that people
care...hmmmm...well, when people respond to the things that I
post about I think that must mean that they, indeed, do.
Or at the very least have an opinion or comment they'd like to
share with me. Try it..go ahead, I dare you!

In this ever changing, fast paced world technology will
always be connecting us, informing us and educating us
and I, for one, think it's way more than a "good thing",
Martha, it's a great thing.

Enjoy the CNN article by clicking HERE

I have rescheduled an engagement shoot today due to the
wind and cold. Kate and Tom want to do some boat/water
shots and this is just NOT the day. :\

Enjoy your Saturday.

Kathryn's 1st Communion

2009-05-13T15:58:00.005-05:00

I had the distinct honor of not only attending Kathryn's
1st Communion but photographing her that day as well.
Rather than putting a slide show together, I've decided
that the images would be best viewed individually.

Kathryn is a complete natural beauty, loves the camera
and, luckily, loves me too. Oh, and also pictured is their
new puppy Sam. Sam is a Cavalier King Charles/Bichon mix.

Happy Thursday!

2009-05-07T06:11:00.013-05:00

Good Day to you all!
LOTS going on in the next several days.

And of course I can't leave out the fact that my brunch at
Interlachen Country Club yesterday for NACE was fabulous,
delicious and a nice break in the middle of the week.
And Kudos to Interlachen, 2009 marks their 100th anniversary!

I set up a table, an easel, set out all sorts of albums, guest
books, proof books, framed images etc...then I ran a 200+ image
slide show of some of my favorite images that I've shot for NACE
since I started on that fateful day that the 35W bridge collapsed
into the mighty Mississip nearly 2 years ago.

The slide show was a HUGE hit! Next time I'll bring my 24"
monitor! :) I just couldn't swing it yesterday. Everyone
gathered around and reminisced as it looped.
You see, each NACE meeting is really like a mini wedding
reception from decor to floral to signature drinks, not to
mention the venues! Really, a lot of fun.

Tonight I will head up to the Metropolitan to cover a MOFAS event.
Pregnant Pause, being held tonight, is their 4th annual awareness
event for expectant moms.

Tomorrow, I am photographing a fun wedding out at the
Como Park Conservatory.
Yep, another Friday wedding! :)

Saturday my niece, Amanda, has a dance recital that I wouldn't
miss for the world!

And Sunday is Mom's day, of course..ahhhhh.

Who's Better Than Me Today?

2009-05-05T09:27:00.004-05:00

Today marks my 6th anniversary of not smoking!
Wow! QUIT NET has a great program for
anyone that you know who is quitting, struggling
with quitting or just wants to keep a tally of
their stats through the years....

Do something special for your heart today!

Kathryn G.

2009-05-02T09:22:00.005-05:00

Today is a very special day.
My little friend, Kathryn, is being confirmed.
I've known Kathryn since before she was born!
She calls me "aunt sue" and I love it!
I've photographed her at every birthday and even
a party and dance here and there. :)

I will head over to Jim & Gerri's home around
2:45 to photograph this lovely girl in her
gorgeous confirmation gown. It'll be like
photographing a teeny, tiny bride, I can't wait!

Sun is out, should be 60+ today. YAY!

Personal.

2009-04-29T07:49:00.003-05:00

Those of you who know me know that the organization
Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep holds a very special
place in my heart and in my life.
I have been an active affiliate for 2 years and
a have coordinated our services for Minneapolis
Children's Hospital for the past year.

In doing so I have met some fabulous photographers,
worked with some of the greatest hospital staff,
grieved with many families, some that have experienced
multiple losses. I thank God everyday that he has
given me the talent, the tools and the strength to
approach every session so that I can share with these
photographers, educate hospital staff members and
start the healing process for these broken families.

At this time, I will continue to coordinate for
Minneapolis Children's and Methodist hospitals but I
will not be photographing anymore sessions.

God Bless.

Change & Hope.

2009-04-28T07:43:00.005-05:00

Change & Hope...Hope & Change.
Can you do both simultaneously?
I have some change on the horizon and I
hope that folks will understand and
embrace it along with me.

Rainy Monday.

2009-04-27T08:31:00.003-05:00

What better way to spend a rainy Monday than
attending a TCPPA board meeting! YAY!

I just received a request to photograph a Chef!
Pretty excited! I'm thinkin' maybe....oh, idk,
TRADE FOR FOOD!!! :p~~~~ (that's me drooling!)

Sandy (Sam) Puc (pronounced 'Putch'), of NILMDTS fame,
is going to be in town Wednesday holding a seminar at
the Ramada MOA. It'll be great to see her again.
This year her tour concentrates on "Tots 2 Teens".
Last year the theme was "Bellies & Babies".
Busy woman, that Sam!

Gary Comes Home/Jaxon Goes Home.

2009-04-26T09:07:00.007-05:00

Gary's been away since Wednesday.
He and 3 other guys went back out to Oregon
to play golf at Bandon Dunes.

These same 4 ventured out there 3 years ago,
loved it so much they returned this year.
This is about 4 & half hours from Portland.

They've made this trip an annual thing and
have selected some mighty swanky spots to
chase the white ball. Bandon was a "must do"
again.

Where there were 3 courses: Bandon Dunes,
Pacific Dunes and Bandon Trails, there are
now nearly 4. Old MacDonald is near completion
and the guys played the 10 hole that were
open on Friday making that a 28 hole day!

As you can tell from the # of recent posts,
I've been busy while he's been away.

No weddings this weekend but I did have the
honor of attending Jaxon's funeral yesterday.
Another NILMDTS family forever changed and
another friendship forged. God is good.

I am thankful that the rain came today instead
of yesterday. God is good.

Have a peaceful Sunday.

Renee & Shane.

2009-04-24T08:11:00.005-05:00

Originally there was rain forecast for Renee &
Shane's wedding day but it held off until early
the following day. Prayer works!

This unique day started with the fact that they
had chosen the Chapel at Ft. Snelling in St. Paul
for the ceremony, they selected Ft. Snelling State
Park and Rice Park for their formals and finished
up at the very lovely St. Paul Hotel.

A group of only about 80 but enough faith, hope
& love to fill the new Twins stadium and enough
celebration to last a lifetime ;)

Congratulations Renee & Shane!

A sneak peak...

Alicia & Matt.

2009-04-23T09:23:00.004-05:00

What a day this was!
Alicia padded the day with TONS of time
for me to capture all sorts of fun at several
spots...it's not common to have that luxury.

Congratulations Alicia and Matt!
I thank you for allowing me the privilege to
come along side you for the day.

(Oh, and p.s. slide.com is working on making
the images larger, I'm told, so I apologize
for the postage stamp sized images.)

Catch Up.

2009-04-22T07:11:00.004-05:00

Between Easter, 3 weddings, 4 NILMDTS sessions,
taxes and a sick Boo, I've been a bit lax in the
blog department. I just needed to "catch up".
But do we really ever catch up? The faith that I
can keeps me going, anyway. :)

That said, on to a few weddings...first, JoAnn
and Rick from March 28th. A chilly day but the
sun was out and the venue (Murphy's Landing) was
the perfect backdrop for their period wedding.

Friday Weddings!

2009-04-17T09:20:00.003-05:00

(random shots from other weddings)

I have my first Friday wedding of the season
today in St. Paul (Alicia & Matt).

Gary and I were married on a Friday about
10 & a half years ago. I like the idea of
a Friday wedding. In today's (and I hate to
say it) "eCONomy" brides are savvier than
ever, craftier than ever and now they are
more fiscally responsible than ever. nice move.

I have several Friday weddings on the books
this year and really, I mean, why not, right?
Typically, everything is less expensive on
a Friday so why not get more bang for the buck
and still have the whole weekend ahead of you
(not to mention the guests!).
Plus and a big plus at that, if you are having
a Catholic ceremony you don't get rushed out
of the Church on a Friday in order to make
it available for the evening service! ;)
(comments, questions, thoughts, concerns?)

Moving on, I have a wedding tomorrow as well.
Another St. Paul location. Ft. Snelling Chapel
and the St. Paul Hotel..LOVE the wedding season!
Photos to follow early next week.

It's going to be a GORgeous day today in Minneapolis.
75 and sunny! The envy of the country! Nothing's
really blooming yet but the blue sky and warmer
temps are welcome ANYTIME!!!

He is Risen!

2009-04-12T07:41:00.000-05:00

Happy Easter everyone!

Hurricane Wilma Footage

2009-04-10T10:44:00.009-05:00

Wow, just ran into this searching for something else.
Now, I don't really care too much for Coco Bongo but
the photos are pretty cool!

And to think that I shot a wedding in Playa del Carmen
5 weeks later is CRAZY to me!

Why are Professional Photographers so Expensive?

2009-04-09T15:45:00.006-05:00

Okay, so I stole this off Facebook but I am giving credit to the author at the bottom.
Might I also add that I love the bit about hiring a professional hairdresser analogy as well...enjoy. Thank you, Robin, for finding this.

In this digital age where everyone has digital cameras, scanners and home "photo printers", when people upload their photos to a local drug store website and pick them up a few hours later, we hear this all the time - How in the world do Professional Photographers charge $55 (actually more then what I charge) for an 8x10 when they cost just $1.50 at the drug store?

Here's why.

Simply put, you're not just paying for the actual photograph, you're paying for time and expertise. First, let's look at the actual time involved. If you don't read this entire page, at least read this first part.

For a two hour portrait session:

- one hour of travel to and from the session
- two hours of shooting
- 30 minutes of setup, preparation, talking to the client etc.
- 30 minutes to load the photos onto a computer (2 - 4 Gb of data)
- 30 minutes to back up the files on an external drive
- 3 - 4 hours of Photoshop time including cropping, contrast, color, sharpening, saving a copy for print and a copy for the internet and backing up the edited photographs
- 2 - 3 hours to talk to the client, answer questions, receive their order and payment, order their prints, receive and verify prints, package prints, schedule shipment and drop package off at Fed Ex.
- For local customers, we also print a set of all of their photos, and meet them at our studio to review the photos and place their order. Meeting and travel time averages 2 hours.

You can see how one two hour session easily turns into more than ten hours of work from start to finish. So when you see a Photographer charging a $200 session fee for a two hour photo shoot, you are not paying them $100 / hour.

For an eight hour wedding:

- I won't bore you with the details, but an eight hour wedding typically amounts to at least two to three full 40 hour work weeks worth of time. Again, if they are charging you $4,000 for an eight hour wedding, you are not paying them $500 / hour.

Now for the expertise.

Shooting professional photography is a skill, acquired through years of experience. Even though a quality camera now costs under $2,000 taking professional portraits involves much more than a nice camera.

Most Professional Photographers take years to go from buying their first decent camera to making money with their photography. In addition to learning how to use the camera itself, there is a mountain of other equipment involved, as well as numerous software programs used to edit and print photographs, run a website etc.

And let's not forget that you actually have to have people skills, be able to communicate, make people comfortable in front of the camera - and posing people to make them look their best in a photograph is a skill all by itself.

Think of it this way - the next time you pay $X to get your hair done, a pair of scissors only costs $1.50. But you gladly pay a lot more to hire a Professional.

What about the cheap studios at the mall?

Please don't compare us to the chain store studios. But if you must, consider all of the time and work that we put into our photographs, compared to what they do. Good luck getting a two hour photo shoot at a chain store. Not to mention they won't come to the beach! And of course, look at our work compared to theirs. You get what you pay for.

The truth is, most of the mall and chain store studios lose money. In fact, in 2007 Wal-Mart closed 500 of their portrait studios because of the financial drain they were putting on the company. What the chain stores bet on is that you'll come in for some quick and cheap photos, and while you're there, you'll also spend $200 on other things. They don't have to make money, they are just there to get you in the door.

Conclusion

We hope that those who have taken the time to read this page will have a better understanding of why professional photographs cost so much more than the ones that you get from your local drug store.

Thank you for taking the time to read this.
Author: Shawn Richter

Adam Lambert.

2009-04-08T15:07:00.005-05:00

WOW.
I had to run out last night for a NILMDTS
session so I missed the last couple of
contestants on this week's American Idol.
Thank goodness for TiVo, right? WRONG!

Adam Lambert's performance got completely
cut, leaving me to wonder "What did he sing?"
"Did the judges love him...again?" "How did
he do?" "What did he where?" etc..

I was so disappointed when we rewound to
watch only to have TiVo end abruptly at 9pm.
GET IT RIGHT FOX!
We will set it to tape the news at 9 in the
future also so it doesn't happen again.

Today, I Googled and found THIS!

I have other favorites but this bastard
keeps knockin' it out!!!

The best season so far, in my opinion.
And I've seen them all. (my guilty pleasure)

Birthday Videos

2009-04-07T12:49:00.003-05:00

Wanted to share my birthday lunch with y'all!

Thank you Nicki for the wonderful Lunch & Candle!
Thank you Anne for the Lovely flowers & the Cake!
Thank you Scott for filling in as buss boy! :)
And Mom, thanks for being there as well but most of all
thanks for having me! 3rd time's the charm, right!?

California Cat Sanctuary...

2009-04-07T07:06:00.000-05:00

My sister sent this to me and I just
have to share it with you...

Cat House on the Kings

Today I Celebrate!

2009-04-06T08:17:00.002-05:00

My sister will be here in about 30 minutes.
She and I are going to the gym to work out
together. We've started swapping gyms every
now and again and I have to say that having
a gym partner is sooo much better than goin'
it alone all of the time.
So, occasionally on a Monday or a Friday we
get together and kick it!
We've recently discovered that we can actually
sandwich an hour of weights with an hour of
cardio (30 minutes before and after).
It runs about 1000 calories and makes me
feel like I've conquered the world!
Anne and I actually made up a word for our
hour of cardio......"hourdio"! It's really
sad how such little things can bring such
joy as we get older! :|

Once we complete the workout portion of this
day, I will be visited by Owen and Reese.
Owen as made me a picture and wants to give
it to me today so they are stopping by.

Then Anne and I will head to Nicki's as she
is preparing lunch for me at her house.

Gary and I are going to dinner at Campiello's
here in Eden Prairie. I absoLUTely love
that restaurant! Their short ribs?? Heaven!

Well, Thanks for stopping by today...make
your day special too!

My Birthday Eve Day!

2009-04-05T09:13:00.004-05:00

As I clean up the aftermath of yesterday's
Final 4 party, yes Gary is still in bed,
I'm remembering that tomorrow is my birthday!

The weather is not going to cooperate :(
I'm not going to the Twin's opener :(
Dinner might be out due to the NCAA
Championship Game :(
But my sister and I have devised a way to
celebrate. We are going to pick up a slice
of cake at Kowalski's, take it over to
the gym and eat it while on running on the
treadmill! I know, BRILLiant, right!
I think I'll bring candles along too.

FYI...Register.com is messed up. I'm not
getting any e-mails. This is a known problem
and there's nothing I can do at the present
moment. If you need to reach me you may do
so through commenting on this blog, on twitter,
facebook or the old fashioned way, the phone.
Sorry for the inconvenience.

Enjoy, what I pray to be, the last snowy day
of the season! ;)

NCAA Final Four.

2009-04-04T11:55:00.005-05:00

Each and every year Gary hosts a Final Four Party
at our house. Kind of a nice way to get all the spring
cleaning out of the way!

This year we have the pleasure of unveiling our newly
remodeled lower level at the same time.

Here's a short video of the final results for those
of you that can't make it to the Par-Tay!

Me & Boo.

2009-04-03T09:16:00.005-05:00

A couple of weeks ago I asked a friend and
colleague if she would photograph my cat, Boo
and I, in that I missed the party at her studio.
And these are my favorites. I just ordered
enlargements of them and they will be here
hanging in my office should you stop by.

Thank you Amy Zellmer for your patience with my fussy cat!

Final 4 party is tomorrow. The basement is
finished, just waiting on a couple of prints
to arrive today.

Got word from Canon yesterday that my old
work horse, Canon 10D, is repaired, cleaned
and on it's way. I still love that camera!
It's a fabulous back up camera and vacation
camera...I seriously love it.
And "no." I'm not going to marry it. ;)

Owen's Birthday in Review.

2009-04-02T11:46:00.004-05:00

Well, altho' Owen's birthday has passed, when you
not only OWN a camera, but remember to always bring
it along, you can save the memories forever.

Here's some of the moments of the day...enjoy.

Remember...NEVER forget your camera, NEVER
forget to have extra (or charged) batteries
and for God's sake, READ YOUR MANUALS!
Or at least bring it along.

April Fools!

2009-04-01T06:35:00.004-05:00

Calling all April Fools!
There is snow on the ground this morning and
that's no joke, dang nabbit! Thank goodness we
didn't get the 8 to 12 that fell just north of us!

Happy Anniversary to my brother Tim and his
wife, Laurie. Today they celebrate 26 years!

Happy Birthday to Cory Barton, my web designer
extraordinaire and friend!

Today I will be at a NACE event all day at the
Hilton on France & 494. Next month, I am being
spotlighted and I've been preparing for that
for a couple of months. Actually, I was supposed
to be spotlighted last July but it was on the
very day that we put Hobie down and I just couldn't
bring myself to do much of anything that day.

I have a bunch of photos from Owen's birthday party
and JoAnn & Rick's wedding from last weekend, I'll
be sharing them tomorrow.

Have a great day! Don't fall for any stupid tricks!
Are you going to get the worm virus today?
I'm not...get a mac!

Today We Celebrate!

2009-03-29T09:05:00.006-05:00

We gather today, rather...this MORNING, to celebrate
Owen's 4th birthday, which is actually tomorrow.
But no matter, I hope that he always remembers that
MY birthday is exactly one week later! And I'll be
4 too! Um...yea, scratch that, make that 4-seven :\
(The above photo is, of course, from last year!)

He, Owen, recently split his eye open...jumpin' on
the bed. Well, he was jumping INto bed but like the
saying goes..."one fell off and broke his head."
Off to the emergency room for several stitches.
Unlike the staples he got in the back of his head
about 7 months ago...this boo boo is on his right
eyebrow, right up front...just like his aunt Sue-Sue ;)

Enjoy this beautiful day!

Here we go....

2009-03-28T09:02:00.005-05:00

Okay, so I have had a TON of people wonder
if I'm ever going to blog again. In person,
on the phone, on facebook etc...even my sister,
who hasn't blogged since the first snowfall
in early November, wants to know when I'm going
to blog again. The answer is "yes" and I will
make every attempt to back into the everyday
routine. I secretly missed doing it but truth be
told, I enjoyed the break.

My first wedding of the season is today.
JoAnn and Rick are getting married at
Murphy's Landing in Shakopee in, what will be, my
first ever "period" wedding. The wedding party
will be dressed to reflect the period and the
wedding party and guests were encouraged to do the
same. I can't wait!

Yesterday I finally met Owen. He is the newborn
son of Kelly and Jeff Read. They have been waiting
for his arrival and this joy for a long time.
You see, they lost Alliah a year ago, December 8th,
at 29 weeks gestation. I was called in to photograph
her for NILMDTS and that is how we met.
A bond was formed and I am certain that this family
will be a part of my life forever!
Interestingly enough, his full name is Owen Patrick.
He is exactly 3 years and 51 weeks younger than
our Owen Patrick (my nephew). Both Owens have their
grandfather's first name as their middle name.
As you can imagine, my mouth dropped open when she
said "Owen Patrick". :D

These are just a sample of his first, official
photo session...I just aDORE him!

Lastly, today I want to share the new basement.
The images that are propped up along the ledge
will come down as I have some giant images on
their way to go up in their place.

Thanks for your patience.
You may subscribe to my blog by clicking
on the "rss"feed tab at the top so that
when I post a new blog you will be notified.
That way, mom, you don't have to check
10 times a day to see if I've blogged.

Have a great day.

Playa Friends.

2009-03-13T11:38:00.010-05:00

Returning to Mexico each year has become such a joyous
part of our lives, Gary and I, so when we run into other
folks that share our love of the country, culture, people,
sounds etc...it just simply puts the pico on the taco!

This year we ran into Peter, Jarka and Charlie from New York.
They stay at Casa de Gopala, a couple blocks in, but would
come to the beach for the day at the Mimi!
Charlie is 7 now and we decided that we met them, first,
when Charlie was 5. She is too darn cute and I'm not kidding.

Here's a shot that her mom, Jarka, took on a road
trip to Cancun this year...I just love the perspective
Nice shot, Jarka!! Kudos!

Charlie and I swam a bit one afternoon and on their
last full day at the beach I arranged for a little beach,
send off music for them.

I can still hear the harp! ;)

Scott and Nicki are going to stay at the same hotel.
Oddly, before I knew that Peter's family was staying
there, I spotted this hotel on a walk with Gary one day
and went in and got information for Scott & Nicki.

Gary and I finally got to see Nedi and his family towards
the end of the trip...REALLY good to see them and know
that they are all doing well.

Talisman (4)

Jose Maria (8)

Indiana (almost 13)

Indiana and I exchanged e-mail addresses so that
we can keep in touch year round! I love this family!
They are so special to us and always will be.
Nedi is still looking for work and his wife, Verana,
is still working as a taxi driver in the Playa area.
I have her # if you want to call her directly for a
ride somewhere while you're down there! Tell her that
Susan & Gary sent you! :)

Laughter IS the best Medicine!

2009-03-12T18:15:00.006-05:00

I'm finally out of my funk, catching up on all
sorts of stuff. I apologize for not blogging.
I thought in the meantime, I'd share this bit
that my Uncle Don sent to me. I think that Louis CK
is FABulous! Check out this YouTube clip.
I laughed my ASS off! I only wish it were longer!

Thank you to everyone who has called and e-mailed
to check in on me....I'm finally feeling like
myself again!

Daylight Savings!

2009-03-08T09:37:00.002-05:00

I Hope you remembered to turn your clocks ahead today.
Or perhaps this is one of those Sundays where you secretly
wanted to miss Church!
"They" say we lose an hour today...hmmm, I feel as though
I've lost, like, 4 days! Still trying to shake this bug.

Home. Sick.

2009-03-06T12:29:00.009-06:00

I brought something nasty home with me from
Playa. I've been in bed for 2 days...nearly 3.
I decided that maybe I should peel myself
out of the "sick" sheets, wash them and throw
myself in the shower in the hopes that I might
feel a little better. The jury is still out.

Gary and I had a fabulous time! I dove 6 times
and I am now an official SCUBA diver!! I can't
wait to go diving again!
Here's a couple of shots that Stan (a diver from
Oklahoma) took on our 80 foot dive at Tortuga
just south of Playa.

This is Katie (rt), she's from Moscow. Katie works
at the Abyss and did the first 2 of my 4 check out dives
which I arranged for through the Abyss Dive Center
before I left Minnesota.
She has the most precious accent, speaks perfect
English and has what I'd like to refer to as the greatest
"tank-side" manner. Super calm, very patient and overall,
top notch skills! Kudos to Dave Tomlinson, owner of
the Abyss, for finding such a gem!

I flipped quite a bit and will sift through
all the footage and post some of the fun in the
days to come. As for photos, I mostly shot with
my phone in the event that I could pick up
wifi around town and send images to this blog...
that didn't happen.

Gary brought along his Canon SD1100 and we shot
with that a ton too.
I guess I could have left both the laptop and my
camera gear at home after all....good to know for
future reference!

I passed on 2nd shooting the wedding on the 28th.
Why? I don't know...just did.

Oh, I almost forgot! In the middle of 5th Ave.
I ran into Tasha Herrgott and Kristi Kienholz!
2 of my colleagues from Minneapolis. They were
in Playa shooting a wedding! So cool to see them
there amidst all the crazy, night time bustle that
is Playa del Carmen! I hope I get to see some of
their pix soon!

The only bummer of it all was the fact that for
some strange reason, I was not able to connect
to the internet down there, so I thank my sister,
Anne, for making a couple of plugs for me in my
absence.

I have to say that writing all of this has made
me exhausted so I'm gonna go lay down.
I HATE being sick!

Muchas Mas, luego....

TOOT-TOOT

2009-02-28T08:01:00.002-06:00

Anne here, for another installment of
Sweet Queen Sister doing the blog!

Hey, can you hear that?
TOOT-TOOT!
There it was again!
Oh, wait that's just me tooting my own horn
about my sister! Is she not just the best?!
I love her dearly and was thinking about her
this morning while it's zero here and she is in
Playa enjoying the 80+ degrees. I was thinking,
can you all help me surprise her please?
She is still unable to get online so when she
gets home she will have to read all that I have done
on her blog in her absence.
So, lets cram up her comment box here on Blogger
with a fun memory of her, or kind word to make her day!
Whatever you want to say would be great! THANKS!

I'll start it out here by saying how
I LOVE the way you are with my kids.
They love you so much!
Thanks for being an awesome aunt and the
BEST Sweet Queen Sister in the world!

WAY to many memories to pick just one!
Cookies, Mexico, hair, kittens, 12:34.
See this fold in my shirt?.....

Oh, BTW...
Susan wanted me to say that she and Gary
found Nedi down in Playa. They had not
seen him yet when I talked with her last
but, had his number and knew where he was working.

Enjoy your weekend!
Peace.

Scuba Sue and Boo!

2009-02-25T21:11:00.004-06:00

It's Anne again.
Susan is fully certified as a scuba diver!
She called tonight and was so excited!
She wanted me to say that Scott at Sea Ya Diving
did a great job teaching her, she used everything
that he taught her. Pete, my husband, was
instrumental in getting her into scuba diving
and is very proud of her. Good job Sue! Way to go!
We all love you BUCKETS!

Here is Pete, Susan and Benji in Cabo last March.

On to the Boo news.
Today is his birthday!
Happy 1st Birthday Boo Boy!

Peace.

Computer trouble, or maybe just user error

2009-02-24T14:12:00.003-06:00

Hello to all of Susan's faithful followers.
This is Anne, Susan's Sweet Queen Sister.
For some strange reason things are not
working the way she would like with her computer
and/or her internet access so I have stepped in
to inform you all that Susan and Gary are safe
and sound in Playa. Loving every minute.
At 2 o'clock today Sue is doing her 1st of 4
check out dives to complete her scuba certification.

I hope everyone here in Minnesota is able to enjoy
the 40 plus degrees today!

Peace.

Playa, Playa, Playa, Playa....

2009-02-22T06:06:00.004-06:00

Well, the time has come.
Gary and I head off to Mexico this morning.
We will be in Mexico by 2:00 today!
I will more than likely be uploading
some mobile images from my phone as well as
from my camera so feel free to check in
periodically each day for up to the minute
updates! This is going to be a good one!

Dean and Lois, we'll call you in a few days.

Abbey, thank you for staying with our boy, Boo.
This is such a wonderful thing to know that
you are there with him. He needs to play, a LOT!
Jacquie, can you remind Abbey that I am
expecting a package from whcc today, as well,
so it doesn't sit on my front step too long.
Gracias, Jacquie.

Will, if you happen to join you sister at
our home and help out, let me know by
commenting on my blog and Gary and I will be
certain to bring you home a little 'somthin'
somthin' too! :D

Peace.

MILK.

2009-02-20T23:36:00.007-06:00

Gary and I saw the movie Milk last night. WOW!
True stories always seem to be favorites for me.
I will pray that Sean Penn receives the Oscar
for Best Actor! Amazing talent! We will be watching
the Oscars in Playa tomorrow night.

But first we have to clear all this snow
we got last night! What happened to 1-2
inches? Looks more like 5 to me. Sven...
At least it looks clean and, dare I say,
pretty outside again.

Brenda and Jorge are coming to pick us up
at the airport tomorrow! I can't wait to
see them, Vaughn, Judy, Alejandro and the
whole wild Mayan bunch!
When you are in Playa del Carmen, please
stop in and visit these wonderful folks at
their restaurant on 4th...1/2 block west of
the famous "5th Avenue". And bring your
dancin' shoes! They provide live music every
night at AJUA (pronounced ah-Hoo'-ah!)
Jorge will salsa the night away with you in
the street and their staff will entertain
you like no other restaurant in town!

My sister is coming over this morning and
we are going to hit the gym together!
I think she just wants to come and see Boo!

About Face(book).

2009-02-20T07:09:00.002-06:00

This will be the last time I talk about Facebook.
Having been in the news a lot, recently, regarding
their "privacy policies" just seemed to tip the scale
for me. That said, I made the decision, on Wednseday night,
to yank my account for the last time. I mean, really,
I can get across everything I need to right here on my blog,
you know, the old fashioned way! ;) So, freedom once more!
If you need to know what projects I'm up to or planning,
just c'mon back here to my blog as I will attempt to
make a move in the direction of keeping this more about
my work than my life. With the wedding season just around
the corner, that should be easy!

I've also decided to give mobile me a go. It's totally
awesome! I've kind of been lurking around it for a year
or so but decided, Wednesday, to take it for a spin.
This will simplify everything for me as it magically
connects my laptop, my iPhone and my desktop computers
without docking my phone!
I enter a meeting in my phone and it goes to both of
my other computers and vise~versa. TOtally cool!
I mean, I rarely pulled up my iCal on my laptop because
it wouldn't be current...problem solved.
This is really a no brainer, I'll be signing up in 60 days.
Thanks Apple!

WPPI 2009.

2009-02-18T08:29:00.005-06:00

Stands for Wedding & Portrait Photographers
International. It's the biggest trade show/party
in the industry and perhaps even on the planet!
Unfortunately, it seems to always comes on either the
heels or the toes of our annual vacation so I always
miss it. Sounds like everyone is there (according to my
facebook page), it's always tauted as the "who's who"
of my industry. There are always a TON of awesome speakers,
classes, location shoots, product releases and deals not to
mention the late night "networking"! ;)
Megan Bearder and I were talking last night and we think
it's high time she and I go...so NEXT year.
(btw, Sawer (aka "the Bear") was finally located and returned!)

The count down is at 4 today so that means that I'd better
find a suit SOON! Guys have it so easy...shorts, done, duh!

This is Nedi's home where we spent a couple of
long afternoons in front of the spanish/english-
english/spanish dictionaries and downed a LOT
of beer! Love these people...this is Nedi's new home.
WE bought them a new oscillating fan as a house
warming present (um yeah, we had to explain that
American tradition to them!)

This,of course, is Hotel Mimi del Mar!
Our room will be one of the two front end
rooms with the big balcony. LOVE it there!
SUPER laid back...if you stay there, please
tell them that Susan and Gary Austin sent you!

If you need a winter warm up, be sure to visit the
PLAYA BEACH CAM to the right under "check these out"!

I've been invited to join in on a wedding shoot on the
28th down in Playa, VERY honored and excited. I guess that
means I have to bring more equipment! oops, sorry Gary!
Here's a few from 2 years ago...

Oh, and my dives are scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday!

Peace.

Always Pack A Camera.

2009-02-17T08:15:00.010-06:00

Now, you might consider that it was a lofty
goal for me to even think that I wouldn't bring
my camera along on our trip~and you'd be right!
I am actually starting to feel beads of sweat
building up just thinking about it.
Therefore, I'm going to at least bring the 10D.
That then leads to packing the laptop as well!
Gary always says, "can we unplug on this trip?"
my response this year is, "only if we sit in the
shade and don't drink any beer!" :D
I think it sounds like a good compromise!

This is a shot that Anne took when we were in
Mexico a couple of years ago. The hotel lied
about having internet connections for guests.
Well, more like stretched the truth.
The day the girls got their braids, I found a
computer and they charged about a buck a minute!!

There's WiFi at the Mimi so it pains me not
to bring the laptop. And AT&T told me that
as long as there's WiFi I can get on my iPhone
and so I may even mobile upload shots to my
Facebook account! Trust me, this is how I relax.
Gary likes to read and float, I like to write!
However, I just write in the morning, he'll read
all afternoon. hmmmm
Thank goodness we both like the beach and buckets
of beer! :D

Again...me, relaxing!

...and Gary relaxing.

...me relaxing.

Gary relaxing.

Woops...here's Jimbo relaxing!

Gary's best friend, Jimbo, likes to
join us from time to time when we hit
Playa del Carmen...I'm certain this year
will be no different!

Good times. Noodle salad.

SCUBA Update.

2009-02-16T09:36:00.003-06:00

Well, it's official!
I passed my written test and spent a few
hours in a pool yesterday brushing up on
my skills to prepare me for my 4 check out
dives in Playa! Ben, my nephew and I went
together and had a blast.
I am so ready for my open water testing!
Even whipped off my mask (under water),
put it back on and cleared it with no problemas!

Carpet's going in as I type and I'm anxious
for this whole mess to get "squared away", as
my dad would always say!

I have to say that the pregnancy shots I took
on Saturday are awesome, I just haven't been
able to work on them much...perhaps later today
when the carpet installer is gone.

Reggie.

2009-02-15T09:30:00.005-06:00

On a very, very, sad note, our good friends
Ron & Cindy had to put Reggie down yesterday.
He was only 7. Typical for the Doberman breed
but so so sad. We toasted Reggie, Hobie, Katie
and Lucius with Champagne last night and just
sobbed! Pray for Ron & Cindy that they find
peace.

Valentine's Day 2009.

2009-02-14T07:40:00.003-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day to you all!

Today I get the very distinct pleasure
of photographing a couple that just over
a year ago experienced a horrific loss.
It was a NILMDTS session where their daughter,
Alliah went home to be with the Lord.

Today, I will be shooting a pregnancy
session for Kelly & Jeff (and their dog!).
They are expecting a boy very soon!

Later, a movie with my sweetie and for
dinner, an early hamburger with Gary and
his Mom! Her treat for V-Day! :)

Enjoy your day!

Carpet.

2009-02-13T08:57:00.004-06:00

Our carpet came today!
However, the edge that is nearest the bar
requires some sort of puttsy process that we didn't
know about so we have to postpone the installation
to next week! waaaaaaaa! It's so close to being
completed that the setback is so very frustrating.
The lovely gents decided to go ahead and unload the
pad & carpet anyway, and why wouldn't you, right?
So I can at least stare at it and envision it complete!

Nonetheless, Nicki is venturing over to re-plaster
the bar (that's for YOU Sandi!) to remove some of
the gold shimmer. I decided that I liked it without.
Ordinarily, I'm not so HM but anytime I can get
re-plastered in a bar...right? Okay, I'm kidding ;)

I'm taking my SCUBA exam on Sunday and heading to
a pool for a review so that I can finish up my
certification in Playa...I am soooo pumped and I
NEVER use the word "pumped" so you know I'm excited!
You see, you have to finish with "Open Water" dives
which, in Minnesota in the winter, isn't possible.
So, I'll be diving in Mexico! Hi, how you doin'?! :)

We are into the "10 day" weather outlook on the web
and it's looking good. Not that we can do anything
about it but it's just fun to see.."85, feels like 92"

I think I haven't mentioned yet that we have recently
learned that Nedi is no longer working at the hotel that
we always stay at. Therefore, we have to ask around
and find out where he is so we can get together.
It just won't be the same without going to his home and
seeing his family. I miss them so much and it will just
be so different without that experience. :(

Woops, I just discovered that Gary ripped out my external
TB hard drive when he was measuring flooring last night.
CRAP! I gotta go...that's where ALL of my photo are!
More later.

Drizzly Tuesday.

2009-02-10T07:33:00.002-06:00

If it rains in Minnesota in February,
it just means is warm...and I'll take it!

Back from the gym, Boo at my feet, a fresh
Vienna roast press and lots to blog about.

I'll start with Reese's birthday brunch that
took place on Sunday. She turned 1 on Wednesday.
She is so darn cute and at the tender age of
1 she is already fascinated with opening and
discovering gifts.
Owen helped a ton and I have to say that it
was remarkable how Owen didn't get the least
bit jealous...most kids do...he just helped!
Good job Owen!

Today is my sister and Pete's wedding
anniversary! 13 years?...wow! Congratulations!

Do you Clip?

2009-02-08T09:48:00.004-06:00

I recently told Gary that I wanted to try
something different. I told him it had been
years since I had done it but I remember the
sensation and satisfaction being pretty
terrific. I also remember that it took a bit
of planning, preparation and on occasion, timing.
PEOPLE! Get your heads out of the gutter, I'm
talking about clipping COUPONS here!!!
(btw...do you say "Koo'-pon" or "Kyoo'-pon"?)

I guess after years of just running out and
picking up what we need all "willy nilly",
I thought that perhaps taking a stab at
saving some cash might be fun, addicting or
just plain smart, right?
Anyway, so I get up this morning, pour my
coffee, grab my "cheater/readers", a scissor
and I sit down to the kitchen counter.

I start with the ads to see where the stuff we
need is on sale then move to the coupons to see if
I can save anymore money. This proves to be
a total bust. If you don't eat cereal, drink
ensure, use disposable batteries, need diapers,
consume canned fruits-meats or veggies....
you simply can't save money. I laughed out loud.
Gary thinks that I'm crazy. I knew that already!

So after studying this weekends ads & coupons
today for about 45 minutes, I have come to the
conclusion that I am already in the red. :\

Happy Birthday to Stacey Thon! *<):-D

Two/Seven

2009-02-07T07:22:00.005-06:00

February 7th...
One week down. That feels good.
Not to mention the warmer temps here in MN!
41 was the official high yesterday and with the high,
thin clouds I wonder what it could have been
without them! ;)

Had a great time at the Gopher Bar yesterday.
Gary and I were joined by Mike & John H., Mike O
and Tom R. This was Mike H. and Tom's first
trip to the GB and I learned that first-timers pay
(apparently unless you have breasts!).

Gary and I later ran up to PUNCH PIZZA for our
"buy one-get one" and it was about a THOUSAND
degrees in there! Hadn't been in awhile and the
pizza was still just as awesome!

Watched Gran Torino. I sobbed.
I don't know why exactly, but I sobbed.

Well, off to the gym so I can eat at Reese's birthday
brunch later this morning! ;P

Warm Up!

2009-02-06T06:54:00.005-06:00

Today's high will be about 41 or so.
Remarkable because it's February and we
Minnesotan's don't see (or feel) those temps
until sometime in March or even April! :\
The other night when the meteorologists
showed the horribly low temps in northern
Minnesota, Gary said... "My God, why do
people live there?" and of course all I could
think of to say was..."That's what people
say about US, hon." It's all relative, right?

It's Friday and I was told that I would get
another opportunity to go to St. Paul to the
Gopher Bar with the boys for a Coney Dog!
What could I say...I love it there!
But I asked Gary if George would kick me out
for not drinking cuz I'm sorta on the wagon
for a bit.

Enjoy the warm weather today!

T minus 16 days.

Tic Toc!

2009-02-05T06:13:00.001-06:00

Each year I seem to remark at how quickly the
time passes. Winter doesn't even seem to last
as long, it's already February!
I always say that I look forward to the time
when all the months that end in 'ber' and 'ary'
have passed us by! Being full into the first
week in February I can't help but cheer a little
inside about our pending vacation!

Talisman, Jose Maria, Indiana (Nedi & Verana's kids)

I'm having trouble reaching Rene' at the Mimi
so I'm concerned that he may not be managing it
anymore which would, of course, be a HUGE bummer!

18 days and counting!

TCPPA Board Member Spotlight.

2009-02-04T08:48:00.003-06:00

To my surprise, the editors elected to
place me in this month's newsletter as
a spotlight...cool!
Gary informed me right away that "lei"
should be spelled "lay"...men.

It just wasn't in the Cards.

2009-02-02T08:03:00.005-06:00

The Arizona Cardinals, while a valiant effort
was made, lost to the Pittsburg Steelers in
the 43rd Super Bowl 27 to 23.

I was amazed at the play, the amount of penalties,
the unsportsmanlike conduct and the officiating
on both sides. All the while, I watched the entire
game (a rarity for me). I even watched the 1/2 time
show with Bruce Springsteen and his E Street Band.
Altho' I wasn't as impressed with his show as I
was with Prince a couple of years ago, I felt
he redeemed himself with his last song selection.
I simply don't appreciate it when all I can here
is the crowd singing and I HATE it when an artist
holds the microphone out over the audience to sing
for them! Now, I know I'm pissing off some "Boss" fans
here but it's not my fault... The NFL tries to put
a 4 hour concert on in 12 minutes and frankly I think
a marching band might serve the time frame better!

OMG, moving on!!!

Today, picking out tile and carpet with Gary for the
basement, clearing out all the junk and getting
things looking near completion is our goal. I'll
keep you posted.

I have a ton of photos and video from our trip to
Arizona, I'll share when I get the chance.

Back to the cold today....YUCK!
20 days and counting! :D

Home again, home again, jiggity jig...

2009-02-01T11:27:00.004-06:00

Can't even believe that we are back home
already! Why, we just left, right?
Vacations are always so short but I must
say that Gary and I always seem to come
home wanting more and I guess that means
that they have all been successes!
We just simply plan for the next one!

Our next one just happens to be in 3 weeks
which gives me exactly 21 days to lose
20 pounds! Hmmm, think I'll try the "Duct
Tape Diet"...the one where I drive over
to Home Depot, pick up some Duct Tape and
place it over my mouth!

Thank you Dean & Lois for such a wonderful
time! I know it was a short visit this
go around but it was great to see you none-
theless. Our trip back home was uneventful
and our reunion with Boo was over the top!~
You must come up this summer when things
get to hot down there! You are always welcome.

Today is a catch up day, laundry day and
well, must I say...Super Bowl Sunday?

I managed to get my hands on a really great
red, long sleeved Arizona Cardinals shirt.
I just love it! My sister thinks I'm a traitor
but I just figured...when in Rome, right?
I mean, it's not like th Vikings are playing
today so I thought, what the heck!

Gary and I plan to sit home and watch the game.
Quite honestly, I'm not sure I'll watch it all.
But what I do know for sure, whether I watch
or not, I would like for the Cardinals to win!

I want to mention that a good friend and
colleague of mine, Krish Kiefer, lost her father
to cancer this past Wednesday. I would love it
if you would pray for her and her family as
they grieve his loss.

Go Cards!

Hittin' Balls with my sweetie!

2009-01-31T11:02:00.000-06:00

Another Sunny Day!

2009-01-31T10:17:00.002-06:00

Lois and I did a little shopping yesterday and
had a little lunch. It was so beautiful out I
hated to be inside so when I got back and saw
Gary out on the porch laying in the sun with a
beer, I joined him! :)

Sort of just hung out last night and chatted it
up with Gary's dad & Lois. We dined on ribs at
the house (yum!) and sat around solving the
world's problems! ;)

Kind of an early night but it was a really
wonderful day.

We are all checked in for our flight tonight
and will get in kinda late.

This trip went pretty fast but I guess short
ones do.

Next we hit Mexico for about 11 days, that should
feel like a month!

Sunny Arizona!

2009-01-30T10:24:00.004-06:00

Wow! I guess I didn't realize how much I
really miss the warm weather. I mean, I
know that it's cold in Minnesota but it's
also January and it's supposed to be cold.
We ordinarily set our warmth radar for the
end of February and just look forward to
Mexico. We've come to Arizona in January
in years past but it never seems to be quite
this nice. 70s. Indeed, nice! Oh, and not
a cloud in the sky so that's always remarkable
too...it' so beautiful.

I'll back up a few days to Tuesday, the day
before we flew down only because I think
it's worth it to explain that I worked a 12
hour day to make it possible for me to join
Gary on this trip. Then we were up until
about 11 or 12, set the alarm for 4, caught
the airport shuttle from the (my) Hilton over
to the HHH terminal, breezed through security,
hopped in seats 8 C & D for our 6am flight,
landed around 9:20 AZ time and then got an
early check in to our hotel, walked over to
the golf tournament, and proceeded to walk
the course for the next 4 hours! All the while
imbibing in the occasional beer ;)

At around 4 we ventured over to the infamous
Birds Nest, a giant tent with live music, food
and libations galore! We ran into some friends
that live down here (Tony Schindler) and a
couple that gave me her wrist band and lanyard
to access the VIP area (nicer bathrooms, free
fabulous food and drinks)...well, I'm worth it!
We the took a cab to the "Tilted Kilt" and had...
shocker....PIZZA!!! back to the room around 11.

Need I say that this was a very long day and
it's quite possible that I was "over served"!~

Um, yea, we slept in on Thursday and then drove
to Surprise and settled in to the cutest casita
on the planet! Owned by a couple from Oregon.
Donny & Cory live here full time now. Cory has
impeccable taste and a flare for fun. The casita
is just darling...a beachy theme.

Breakfast with Dean and Lois this morning and
now off to hit some balls and get in the warm sun.

More later....

CRAZY DAY!

2009-01-27T07:33:00.004-06:00

Much to do before one heads out of town.
Rendering the get away a necessity by the
time in finally arrives!
I think sunny and 70 sounds mighty nice.
It'll be worth the craziness today.

I'm going to miss Boo horribly! :(

We'll get up at like 4 am (and oddly, some
of my SoCal friends finally make it to bed
about then) and catch a super early flight
so that we can have the whole day in Scottsdale
at the FBR golf tournament!

I'll be detached from my camera as I will
be leaving it at home but I will have my
phone which takes pretty nice photos and
we will also have our Canon 1100.

I wanted to share a shot of the bar area
that Nicki painted for us...she's amazingly
talented and I'm so proud to have her as
a sister (in law)! :)

We're almost done! Measured for carpet, wood
floor is all in and all the painting is
complete. It looks so amazing! So different!
Our annual Final Four party will be the
unveiling! Carpet, fixtures and new furniture
will finish off the transformation!
I'll flip it when it's all done!

Have a fabulous Tuesday! :)

St. Paul Winter Carnival 2009

2009-01-26T08:19:00.017-06:00

Gary and I went into St. Paul on Friday
to meet some friends at the Gopher Bar for
a Coney. I brought my camera along to hopefully
capture some of the sculptors working on their
entries in the Ice Carving Contest. I was in
luck! They were all finishing up, it was
FREEZING, of course, but Gary obliged me by
dropping me off for a bit so I could get a
few shots. I don't know when the winners are
selected but I enjoyed getting them in action.

Then it was off to the Gopher Bar to warm up
with a Coney Dog! This is a spot in which Gary
and his friends meet once a month so I thought
I'd tag along for the experience. I'm told that
the Gopher Bar is steeped in tradition and I
was able to soak it all in first hand.

It was 12:30 and packed with folks from all walks
of life. George, his wife and his staff cater to,
and supports heavily, the military, Gopher Hockey
and the Vulcans of St. Paul. This was no ordinary
"lunch spot" for sure!

It started with a shot of whiskey (to my surprise,
I had to be in on that tradition as well!).

I was told you can only place one order for coneys.
Adding to your order is frowned upon, or should I
say~not allowed...so we ordered 3 to split. It was perfect.

I was allowed all access to the bar and the grill.
George decided that I should be in a photo so I
handed my Mark III off to his wife...the result?

(me, George, John & Gary)

I think my job is safe! ;D

Now if you are offended by the "f-bomb" or
any sort of snide remarks...this is NOT your
place. However, I know that I will return
and if not before, for certain on and
upcoming Saturday in May when George will
hold "Gun Day". On this day (ordinarily one
Saturday a month) everyone brings their guns
in and lays them all out on the bar...that
should be quite the photo op!

I look forward to going again!

God is Good.

2009-01-25T15:14:00.005-06:00

I attended a new church today in Shakopee with
friends of mine. This was much smaller than the
church that I had been attending but I knew that
going in. It was so good to see Ann, Pete and
their children! And it felt great to get back to
church and the Word of God. The message today was
about living passionately, identifying obstacles,
plugging in and taking worthwhile risks. A terrific
topic to be revisited every January but particularly
for me, this message fits with my new "Sue 2009"
campaign! I see growth between me and the horizon
and I've made some might large strides already!

Change isn't aways easy but as it was put this
morning...."a calm sea does not produce a skilled
sailor." I like that. I like it a lot!

I have decided to stay on as an NILMDTS Hospital
Coordinator for both Minneapolis Children's and
Methodist but the reality of cutting back the sessions
that I preform has come to a screeching halt in that I
have already taken 2 this month.

Wedding season is fast approaching and I cannot wait!
Several specTACular venues and, well, I just love
the thought of a warm, sunny wedding day in June about
now with all the sub zero temps we've endured lately.

In a couple of days Gary and I will visit his father
in Arizona...gonna love not having to warm up the
car for 20 minutes! I had to reschedule a shoot
yesterday to to the super cold temps~Rescheduled
for Valentine's Day and should be sweet!

Now that I have removed myself from Facebook, I intend
on getting back to the seriousness at hand her on my
blog ;D

I know that this will be a fabulous year!
Can't wait for God to show me the way!
God is Good!

Short Ribs @ Campielo. AMAZING!

2009-01-23T20:44:00.000-06:00

Facebook~the in's and out's.

2009-01-23T10:31:00.003-06:00

Well, for those of you wondering and
contrary to what has been written, I made
a decision yesterday to yank my Facebook account.
I initially began with the intention of keeping
in touch with my niece who had gone off to college
in Missouri. Well, she's home now and frankly
I was growing tired of it...Not G....Facebook.

Once I got "into" Facebook, as I look back,
I found it to be a great time waster.
So for me it was really a no-brainer to just
rip it off like a band-aide! And, quite honestly,
I am relieved of it's strangle hold.

I feel that I have my life back and Gary is
happy to see a smile on my face!

I will continue to place my "goings-on" on my
blog and I encourage those of you that might
miss me on Facebook to just zip me off a line
or pick up the phone. Relationships can still
stay intact the "old fashioned" way! :D

Tonight Gary and I are treating ourselves to
a night out at a Hotel. But first we are going
to venture into St. Paul to have a famous Coney
Dog at the "Gopher" then head over to Rice Park
and take a peek at the ice sculptures in progress.

Still a Mess.

2009-01-19T15:16:00.009-06:00

Altho' things are still crazy around here from
the remodel, I'm getting some work done.
Blogging has not been a priority, however. :\

What has been a priority is clearing out my lap
top in preparation for two trips and getting
my lap BOTTOM to the gym! :)
Both seem to be working out just fine altho' it
occurs to me that my lapTOP has more memory!

My desktop computer is out of the bathroom and
back on my desk but things are a little jumbled
so my external hard drives are not where they
should be...quite frustrating for a photographer!

The wood floors are done and as soon as Gary can
get Home Depot to mix up a 2nd gallon of the lighter
color (a total oops on their part) we'll get all
the paint completed so that all that's left to
do is get the new carpet in!
Who am I kidding...then it'll be a new sofa, table,
lamps, rugs...yea, I'd say we're a 1/3 of the way
finished! :D

I want to wish Nicola Craig a happy birthday!
She and I ran out for a little coffee this morning
and chatted it up...it had been awhile. I miss
our "coffee talks" Nic!

We head to Arizona next Wednesday to see Dean and
Lois...and to hit the FBR Open (formerly the Phoenix
Open) golf tournament and hit the Bird's Nest!
That should be fun. Take a break from the snow
and cold for a few days.

I finally got a request from a Bride to plan a
"trash the dress" session the day after their
wedding! I am sooo excited! I never seem to be
able to convince anyone to do this but now I will
have some of my own images to showcase what a
wonderful session this can be...no pressure of the
day, guests or family...just the two of them,
relaxed and married! :D YAY! More on that as it
gets closer to the date (October 10th).

So Friggin' Cold!

2009-01-16T08:03:00.002-06:00

Okay, today is just as nasty as yesterday. 20+below ZERO~
The highs are not even getting above zero. I'm tellin' ya,
these temps keep the 'riff~raff' out of Minnesota!

The warm up, the keep eluding, to is going to occur later today.
The 30's? Now you're talking! That's what we call 'sweata weatha'!
(taken from the 'Brox Beat' on Saturday night live)
Might even see some t-shirts out and about! :D

This morning, and I had better get a move on soon, I'm going
to head up to MEI in Golden Valley to take some shots for an
upcoming magazine article about their 25th year! Cool!
Thanks Jane!

Nicki finished up the Venetian Plaster in the bar yesterday.
It looks so awesome. Once I get the area all cleaned up and
everything back in place, I'll shoot it and post some images.

Gotta run!

How Cold Is It?

2009-01-14T08:35:00.003-06:00

Seriously, if I hadn't have run out of creamer
yesterday, I would have been on hour 50 or so
without leaving the house! Yesterday we had a
high of 12 BELOW! And if that weren't enough,
our furnace was STILL not firing! And let me
tell you, after 2 nights with no furnace I wasn't
about to let Kleeve off the hook! I called them
and they came right over and fixed something
completely unrelated to what they did on Monday.
Hmmmmmmm....yea, not sure I believe that, but
the good news is that they didn't charge us for
the 2nd visit!

Gary is still at it in the basement, painting,
priming, ripping off doors and tearing up carpet.
Boo is acting as the "sidewalk superintendent".
I will take some pictures today.

Nicki is going to come over today and assist me
with Venetian Plaster. A nummy deep red for behind
the bar area. She is the expert at faux finishes
and technique so if you ever have a project that
is a little above you or you are simply looking
to select a new paint color...she's your girl!
Call me for her contact information...Nicki is
also an amazing muralist!

Word of the day...."Layers"!

The Heat is On!

2009-01-12T08:55:00.007-06:00

Well, soon anyway...Kleeve will be here
between 10 and noon today to fix our furnace.
It's been out for nearly 3 days! The last two
nights we have slept with the gas fireplace on,
an electric heater in the bedroom AND electric
mattress pad! CRAZY! We didn't want to pay the
"emergency" fee for Sunday so we just called and
scheduled for them to come by today.

In the mean time, we continue to work on the
lower level remodel. Very exciting! I'll try to
remember (cold on the brain!) to post some before
and after's as we work from side to side.
New wood floors by the bar, new carpet by the
theater, and then the wood floors will pick up
again on my office side, go into the salon, down
the hall and into the bath. I KNOW! Fun, right?!
For now I am working in a mess...a real mess.
I had to meet with Jen and Andy at a remote location
to discuss my photographing their wedding in October!
That one is a "go"! I'm very excited! It was actually
GARY that recommended her to me! Thanks Gary! The
wedding will take place at Mount Olivet in Minneapolis
and the reception will be at Windows on the top of
the IDS tower! This is a combination that I have
photographed before but this time there will be time
for a photo walk around town....I'm so pumpep about
that! Here's Rick and Amanda Gorra from July '06.

That was a fun one...my brother in law was
in the wedding party so my sister was there as well!

Well, it's snowing again, and I just said to
Nicki that it's nearly the middle of January
and I still think the snow is pretty so I guess
that makes me a hearty Minnesotan! Or maybe it's
that we booked our flights to Mexico this morning!

Stay warm, a deep freeze is approaching...AGAIN!

Back to Life, Back to Reality...

2009-01-06T12:01:00.004-06:00

For me, 2009 starts today.
A new calendar with endless opportunity and
possibilities!
I love a new calendar! Transferring Birthday's,
Anniversary's, adding Vacations, Shoots, Weddings,
Celebrations, Parties.

However, I also must get to my taxes! :\
We are remodeling our lower level :)
And that means working in a mess :(
But it'll be beautiful when it's complete :D

Make the most of today...tomorrow is no guarantee.

TCPPA

2009-01-05T10:57:00.005-06:00

Today I will be attending my first TCPPA event
as an actual Board Member. I've been a member
for 3 years and thought I'd step it up.

Today's speaker is Mitche Graf. He'll be sharing
with us The Power of Marketing 101.

This will pretty much shoot a hole in my Monday
but I'm excited to meet Mitche and be enlightened
about marketing! A pretty great way to start a
new year and with wedding season around the corner
I'm sure his tips will be FABulous!

Well, I can't go any farther without mentioning
how disappointed I was in the Viking loss to the
Philadelphia Eagles yesterday. However, I must say
that this was by far the most fun I've ever had at
a Vikings football game! Not really sure when I'll
regain my hearing!
For those of you not on facebook, I posted several
shots throughout the day and I even brought Gary's
camera along and shot some video (I'll post that
later on).
I sat with my sister in row 15 behind the Eagles'
bench on the 45 yardline...it was PERfect!
Except for the fact that "Donald Downer" was behind
us and kept asking Anne to sit down...whatever dude!
We paid OUR $320! We actually considered going out
and buying some big ass hats to wear just to piss
him off more! Riding to and from the game in a big
'ol Expedition Limo was quite the ticket too, thanks
John! What a day!

Pete, Anne, Paul & I came back to Redstone, where we
had lunch before the game, to get my car and by 8
we were all starving again so we went in, sat in
Travis' section and ordered up a delicious dinner
as well!

Hey, I gotta run.

Playoff Sunday.

2009-01-04T08:36:00.008-06:00

My sister managed to get her hands on a couple
of good seats for today's playoff game.
Embarrassingly enough that the Vikings "backed"
into the playoffs, the game was nearly blacked
out due to low ticket sales....niiiiiiice!
I think it speaks volumes that the general
public, here, doesn't give a rip about their own
pro football team. Me thinks that Childress is,
perhaps, on his way out..my opinion.
Well, regardless, I'm more looking forward to
spending a day with my sister that doesn't
involve baking! ;)

Anne's husband, Pete, and his boss are taking a
limo down to the game and while we won't be
sitting with them at the game we'll ride down
to the dome with them. That should be fun!

Pete came by yesterday to have some new head
shots taken for an upcoming article in a trade
magazine. Pete works with RTI and will be
attending the Consumer Electronics Show in
Las Vegas next week.

I talked to Gary this morning...he and Dave
are going to come home today. I'm so excited!
They will stop along the way and watch some of
the game and get home sometime after dinner. For
some reason, I missed him most this time around!

Have a great day, stay warm.
Go Vikes!

On The Road Again...

2009-01-03T10:32:00.005-06:00

I will go to Excelsior today to partake in some
cooking, wine tasting and video watching.
Nicki received the DVD set and accompanying book
to a favorite series "Spain, On the Road Again"
for Christmas so we thought it would be a gas to hang
out and grab a favorite recipe from the book and watch
some of the episodes! We just fell in love with the
series when it aired late this fall. We've even talked
about going to Spain...How cool would THAT be!

Nicki and I used to get together pretty regularly
and as of late that has gone by the way side.
New year, new plans!

That leaves me with this morning to put the rest
of Christmas away because tomorrow will be a long
day, no doubt, with a limo ride to Manny's for
lunch and then to the Viking's play off game.
Anne & I are going to have a sister day and see
if she can get on TV again :)
50 yard line seats....not bad!

I just talked to Gary and they are experiencing a
blizzard out in Winner, South Dakota so no hunting
today but they plan to stay through tomorrow and
come home Monday.

I got the opportunity to go next door to Jacquie's
last night and catch up. I've missed her and it
was so great to just sit and chat. In order for us
to sit there, I brought along some of my "Boo" M&Ms
that I got from Mike & Kindra for Christmas to bribe
her husband with....Scott and I are self proclaimed
chocoholics! These M&Ms have teeny tiny Boo faces on
them and are absolutely aDORable. I kind of find it
hard to actually eat them, cuz, well after all, it's
Boo's face, ya know?
But what's not to love? Boo? GOOD!...Chocolate? GOOD!
(for all you "Friend's fans out there!)

Well, back to the task at hand. I hate to move Boo
from the tree skirt...he's so happy there.

New Year's Eve 2008.

2008-12-31T10:02:00.039-06:00

Wow, another year gone.
Let me see....what went on in 2008?

Gary and I traveled to Arizona to celebrate
my father in law's 80th birthday in January.

We welcomed a new family member (niece)
into the world....Reese, in February.

Traveled to Mexico Twice...
Once with Gary to Playa~

And once with my sister and her family
to Cabo in March (like the day after I
got home from Playa!)

Celebrated Tim & Laurie's 25th Wedding
anniversary in April

And my 46th Birthday...

(thanks for the cupcakes Ron & Cindy!)

Birthday lunch with Jacquie at Redstone!

Visited my friend Megan in Chicago

I met Sam Puc of NILMDTS fame at her
Bellies and Babies Tour.

The wedding season hit in May

And so did Boo!
Born February 25th and he came to
be with Gary and I on May 5th.

More weddings in June

June was also a busy month for family.
My mom had back surgery and once that was
completed they hauled her back in for a
perforation in her bowel..NOT good.
Emergency surgery and nearly a month in
the hospital and the connected rehab
facility. My mom LOVES this photo! ;)

July brought with it many birthdays, the
MiracleKids Triathlon in Chanhassen, a HUGE
4th of July celebration at my sister's

and the horrific loss of my beloved, Hobie.

At the age of 12, he was tired of the fight
with his colon and decided that he wouldn't
leave us with the decision to put him down.
He passed peacefully on July 29th. We'll miss
him forever.

August brought more weddings,

More High School Senior Portraits...

And my decision to go forward with my
SCUBA certification!

I'll be all set this winter when I
return to Mexico! :)

As August drew to a close, we all
wished G well as she headed off for
her freshman year at Missouri State!

Soon after, I opened a Facebook account so that
I could keep in touch with G while she was away.

The end of August, the RNC came to town and altho'
I was selected, back in January, by a firm out
east to assist in covering it, I declined in the
days leading up to the convention. I was thrilled
to be considered and I have the folks at Starkey
to thank!

September, Gary and I celebrated our 10th
anniversary with a night out..nothing big.
We decided that with the airfare being so
disgustingly outrageous (even to Chicago it
was about 800 bucks round trip!), our anniversary
could be just as easily celebrated her in
Minneapolis.

October is the busiest month for birthdays
in my family..starting with Gary. Therefore,
much cake was consumed in that month! UGH!

I met Jo Mosely, on Facebook after I opened
my account, through a colleague of mine.
We chatted it up for a few weeks online and
then I traveled to Albert Lea to meet her.
She has spent Thanksgiving with my family,
Christmas and now, at this very moment,
she is driving from Rochester, MN where she's
just had a full body scan at MAYO and will
be joining Gary and I at the Hilton tonight
for the Miracles of Mitch Foundation's 4th
Annual New Year's Eve Gala.

October also marked another dark day for
Gary and I. 11 weeks to the day, after putting
Hobie down, we had to put our beloved Katie down.
Katie was Hobie's sister, litter mate and I
held her as she went to sleep. It was horrid.
I am so thankful for Boo who was a gift from
my dear, dear sister, Anne...I love you Anne!

November...Election year, so no surprises
there...we are still awaiting the outcome
of the winner in the Senate race for Minnesota
between Rep. incumbent, Norm Coleman

and the DFL candidate (and it even pains me to
type his name here in my blog) Al Franken.
To date, they are separated by just 50 votes!

December...wow, how it flies by!
I opted out of cookie baking with my sister
this year. I won't be making that same choice
next year, I actually missed that time with Anne.

Anne & Pete hosted Christmas Eve with the
whole Craig clan and friends (Freeses & Jo)

Gary and I hosted Christmas Day here with
his family and Jo. Yasuko and Mariko prepared
their famous Japanese stir fry. Soooo delicious

Also in 2008 countless NILMDTS sessions, countless
Minnesota Miracle weekends for cancer families
at the Hilton, countless makeovers for my hair
clients, countless bon fires out front with Gary,
countless get togethers with neighbors and friends!
if I've missed anything, I apologize. Clearly,
it's been a big year!

I love all of you and I appreciate your dedication
to my blog even when it goes dark from time to
time. For those of you far, far away, please
continue to comment and for those of you that are
near, let's make 2009 a time to make time to
get together more often. Besides, I need to get
out of the house on occasion! ;)

Happy New Year to all!
Make all the changes you can so as to not regret
one single moment in the coming year.

See you at the Hilton!

Peace.

Snowfall was a bust.

2008-12-30T09:31:00.003-06:00

I always feel like a kid on Christmas
morning when they forecast for a big
dump of snow overnight. I peek out the
bedroom window or head to the living room
to check out the massive white stuff.
Today, it was a bust. I hate that.
I think there is an inch of fluff. Just
enough to snarl traffic and track wetness
into the entryway when Gary brings in the
paper.

Last night Gary and I discussed our big
"snow day" plans...it included cuddling up,
popping some popcorn and watching movies.
Well, we will probably still do it but
it's more fun when you know that you can't
go anywhere because of the weather.
No matter, we will hit the gym and hang out
together today. That's what Christmas break
is all about. Relaxing.

The tree may come down today too. Boo's been
feeling a little displaced in that we had to
move is tower downstairs to make room for the
tree and extend the table for Christmas.

But make no mistake, he makes him self at
home no matter what.

I'll head up to National Camera to see the
mighty Dave and get my images from him!
yay!

God Bless.

Where does the time go?

2008-12-29T13:32:00.003-06:00

This has been a whirl-wind holiday season
so far. I don't even know where to start.
Christmas..wait, was that already nearly
a week ago? That means that New Years Eve is
in 2 days, holy Hannah!

We all gathered at the Baker's in Chanhassen
(my sister & brother-in-laws) for Christmas Eve
then on Christmas day, Gary and I hosted Gary's
family here at our home.

My friend Jo came up from Albert Lea on Monday
and got in on all the Craig crazy goings on.
She even joined me on a Hilton greeting last
Friday.It was great having her here.

I'd be posting a ton of images but as fate
would have it I had to send my flash card out
to recover the files. Thank God that they were
all recoverable. I had 3 Hilton Families on there
from the day after Christmas and 2 losses for
NILMDTS on the same card. I never cried so hard
as I did when I discovered that. It was like I
suffered yet another loss.
But as God would have it, my good friend Dave
Johnson up at National Camera was able to recover
all of the images on that card.

Note to everyone....when you get an indication
that your card is corrupt, TOSS IT OUT! Do not
attempt to reuse it. It could and very likely
will corrupt again.
In my case it was the first time that I've actually
witnessed corruption and I'll tell you what,
it ain't fun.

That said, if you run into this sort of thing
with your digital files, contact me and I will put
you in touch with someone who can help.
It's expensive in a lot of cases but well worth it.
I'll be picking up my CDs tomorrow with the files
on them and returning the CF card to B&H out in
New York.

Today, Gary and I attended a funeral for a father
of a friend of ours, Randy Blackowiak. It was sudden,
a heart attack they think. His father was 75.
His mother passed away about this same time 4 years
ago...Randy now hates Christmas. God Bless you all.

The big New Years Eve Gala for the Miracles of Mitch
Foundation is just 2 days away! Come and Join us!!

I'm off this week and plan to relax (outside of
the New Years Eve Gala) then like everyone else,
I will hit the gym...two months until Mexico! yikes!

I'll post a ton of images after I get those images
back in my hand!

God bless!

WOW is it COLD!

2008-12-21T10:03:00.009-06:00

I am soooo, soooo sorry for not blogging.
Bad blogger, BAD Blogger, BAD BLOGGER!!

It is so cold here in my house this morning.
Furnace is set to 68 but it's 61. CRAZY!!!
So why is it that in like March when it's 60
we run around outside in t-shirts and shorts
and today, in my home I'm wrapped up like an
eskimo and I have to continually re-heat my
coffee? BRRRR!

I tried to wrap some gifts last night while
Gary was watching the Cowboy's vs the Ravens
but Boo had other plans. It's seriously like having
a child...I'll have to wait until he is napping!

I am going ice skating with Owen today.
I'm very excited. He's been taking lessons!

I think that Jo has decided to come up here
tomorrow...maybe Tuesday. Both Albert Lea and
here have been getting dumped on simultaneously
the past few days so 35W is quite treacherous!
I'll feel better having her drive up tomorrow.

Stay indoors if you can!

A Week Away.

2008-12-17T08:41:00.003-06:00

So, Christmas Eve is a week away.
Are you ready? I am. Gifts nearly wrapped
and house is almost ready for guests.

Now is that time of year that I gear up
for my hair clients and get everyone
beautiful for Christ's birthday!

I'm feeling much better today.
I tell ya what...all I've done is take a
shot of Nyquil at night and that's it.
This cold is only 3 days old and it's
almost gone! I tried this the last time
(not taking a bunch of over the counter
stuff) and I have sailed through. Try it
next time you get that scratchy, tight
throat thing comin' on.

Still cold. Blah, blah, blah...yea, well,
it's Minnesota and it's DeCEMBER!!!! No kidding!

I'm going to be off from the 24th of December
through the 5th of January. Just takin' some
time off. Gary and I need some down time!
I'm looking forward to it.

Gary's all done working and has been since
Thanksgiving and it's been nice seeing heim
around the house! I hope he feels the same
about me during my time off! ;)

Keep cuddling and I'll see you tomorrow.

How Goes the Battle?

2008-12-16T15:51:00.008-06:00

Well, we are battling more nuisance snow,
the kind that just mucks up traffic,
super cold temps and I have my 2nd cold of
the season that has barely begun.
And NO, I did not get a flu shot nor will I.
I'm resting a lot and thankful that I shopped
early when it wasn't so darn cold.

The inquiries are beginning to come in for the
upcoming wedding season and at a time when
you don't even want to go outside, I find my-
self thinking of spring, summer and fall 2009
weddings. Sure, it doesn't take the snow away
but, remember, I LIKE the snow! The cold? Not
so much.

This is the week that typically is slated for
hair and lots of it. We ladies like our fresh,
holiday hair! That reminds me, I should have
made an appointment for mine! YIKES! Looks like
I may get the Christmas bang trim again.
What is it that they say about the cobbler that
goes barefoot? Yea, that's pretty much me! :\

Boo has a new box to play with (thanks to Amazon)
and I think he is finally "over" the whole
Christmas tree thing (yay!). He's our little
gerbal and likes to chew paper, however, so my
nice, new paper that I got from Provisions
is in jeopardy and that sucks! I can't leave my
lovely wrapped gifts out under the tree cuz the
little JOY in my life likes to chew! Turd.

Our friends Matt, Jenny, Olivia and "Bucket's" (their
new dog) come home this Saturday from Holland.
They've been there on business for 2 years.

I have something new for you to do. I recently
photographed a mom's belly and her family knowing
that her son "Luke" would likely not survive this
pregnancy.

Well, Luke is a mighty boy and is struggling
to hang in there. Please visit their newly devised
Caring Bridge site and Pray for and follow the
progress thank you from the bottom of my heart!
Here's Luke's CB Site.

Stay warm.

Today's High...a New Low.

2008-12-15T08:13:00.003-06:00

I think it's about 12 below. The high today
will be about 2 below which means get ready for
the 10 degree warm up! Yippee!!

I spent the night at my sister's last night to
get the girls on the bus today.
6 o'clock alarms are NEVER good and especially
when you are sick. I barely slept last night so
the train wreck that I felt like yesterday will
definitely spill over into today, no doubt.

Emily's gone, I drove her to the bus stop and
sat with her until it came (way too cold to stand
outside and wait for a bus!) and now I'm going to
go wake Amanda and get her going.

I'm supposed to be going to my first ever board
meeting with the TCPPA 2009 group but I just can't
even think about going...I feel like a pitrie (SP?)
dish!

That's it for now....BRRRRRR it's cold.

Back in EP.

2008-12-14T10:31:00.007-06:00

It was almost 40 degrees yesterday!
Jo and I did a little shopping in Albert Lea
and then I headed back up 35W.
Fighting a sore throat all day I decided
that I would lay down once I got home
and by the time I woke up I could sense a
cold settling in. Dang it!

We did manage to walk down to Ron and Cindy's
last night for a little Holiday Cheer but
I knew that this cold was inevitable.
I didn't sleep well and by morning I was sunk.

I beat a cold the last time by not taking
anything (NyQuil one night). It seemed to run
it's course much quicker. Try it sometime!

This go 'round, however, I have to go to my
sister's and sit with her girls tonight as
they are in Arizona visiting friends and
attending the Cardinals/Vikings game at the
very cool Glendale stadium!
Anne's never seen it. It's pretty cool!

It's raining here today. Niiiiiice.
It feels like March. Strange weather.
No matter, the bottom will fall out soon.

I have a really big week coming up and I really
would rather be feeling well but I guess we've
all been there, right? I'll just walk around
with Purell in my pocket and Kleenex in the car.

enjoy your Sunday!

Albert Lea II.

2008-12-13T09:33:00.003-06:00

Well, actually I have come down here 3
times but only twice I've stayed over night.
This time I left Boo at home :( Too much
bother.

A chilly drive down here but the drive seems
to go quicker and quicker each time I come
down.

We ate dinner at a crummy Mexican restaurant.
Casa Zamora...never go there! We hit another
one the last time I was down that was in
town and it was fabulous!
This one was horrid...tan refried bean sauce
poured over everything..gross, colorless and
flavorless. Sadly, for the residents here,
it was PACKED, as if everyone thinks that's
what Mexican food should taste like. No bueno.

We are going to go into town and hit a few
stores. I have some things I need to exchange
that I got a few weeks ago.

Breakfast is smelling mighty nice. Fuel for
the day. Turkey sausage (yum) and eggs.
I brought along my press and some Dunn Brother's
beans cuz Jo's not a fan of the Joe.

Sittin' hear in my blue snowflake "Grandma Pants"
and Jo in her pink camo one's that I got for
her when she came up for Thanksgiving.
Just having a leisurely Saturday morning. Nice.

More later.....

Busy, Busy, Busy.....

2008-12-12T12:53:00.001-06:00

I've been running and running and working
and working....now I'm going to head to Albert
Lea to visit Jo and her kitties.

I'll post from there.
All is well here.

TCPPA Holiday Gathering.

2008-12-08T08:20:00.009-06:00

Tonight is the annual Twin Cities Professional
Photographers Association's holiday party.
This year it's at Jax Cafe in Minneapolis.

I've missed the last couple of programs for
TCPPA so I'm excited to go and see everyone!
Did I mention that I'm going to be a board
member in 2009? Yep, I decided to step it up
and get more involved. This is terrific
organization and these are some magnificent
people not to mention fabulous photogs!
Tonight will be fun!

Gary got home around 3 yesterday. He'd been
gone since Wednesday. He'll travel out one
last time in early January...I think.

Boo missed Gary. It's always fun to watch them
reunite after he's been gone. This poor cat is
going to have a difficult time when we are both
away this winter...Yikes! I already feel bad
about leaving him. :\

Today is an anniversary for some new friends
of mine. This will undoubtedly be a tough one
for Kelly and Jeff. One year ago today, they
lost their little girl Aliah. I was the
photographer that responded to their loss
last year for NILMDTS. Pray for this family
as they gather with friends and family today
to remember Aliah.

Just 23 days until the big New Years Eve event
at the Airport MOA Hilton for the MOMF!
This is one big bash! I hope that if you don't
already have plans that you will plan to join
me on New Years Eve for this money raising,
gift giving, family friendly night of CRAZY FUN!

Have a great Monday!
Oh, one more thing...

More Snow.

2008-12-07T12:26:00.006-06:00

More of the white stuff on the way.
Gary will drive right into it on his way
home from South Dakota. YIKES.

I'm officially done Christmas shopping as
of today. YAY! Well, that doesn't necessarily
mean that I won't shop more, I'm just done with
all the required gift buying! ;)
Now it's onto the fun stuff..ME!

Let's see, I already got myself the flip video
camera which I am aDORing! But I think that's
what everyone should do, just go out and get
themsELVES a little somthin' somthin' and call
it a day...I think that's why the word "elves"
is in "themselves"..hmmmmmmmmm~ good one!

I'm posting a video that I shot with my flip.
It's Boo and his first Christmas tree experience.

Snowy, Snowy Saturday!

2008-12-06T10:24:00.003-06:00

Yay! I secretly love winter. Don't tell Gary.
I love the snow. I hate the bitter temps so
I simply try not to go outside when it's super-
duper cold, that's all. I hate all the wining!
"Cold enough for ya?" I'm so over that.
I've lived here, in Minnesota, all my life and
I'm not ashamed of it. There, I said it.

Every season has it's ups an downs but you can
at least throw on another layer or toss on some
slippers when you get cold or snuggle with your
sweetie!

Today, I have no sweetie cuz he's still in SD
but I can dress warm and stay in and decorate
the tree.

I'm finally installing Rosetta Stone Spanish
today. I'm muy, muy excited!

I just got an invite to go ice skating with my
sister so I'm going to dig out my skates!
Have a great day.....get some more shopping done!

Another Hilton Friday.

2008-12-05T07:05:00.005-06:00

Today is going to be a "catch up" day for me.
I have several projects that require attention
to detail so I'll get at that right away this
morning. I love to cross stuff off of lists!

I was on call yesterday for NILMDTS and I didn't
get one single call! As a matter of fact, things
have been quiet lately....I can only pray that
things continue on that path.

Later today I have 3 families checking into the
Airport MOA Hilton.

I met the sweetest, tallest couple yesterday
for an engagement session!
We met on the west side of Lake Calhoun but
the brisk wind made it easy to decide to take
the show indoors so we drove over to Calhoun
Square. Good call.
Thanks Danielle & Chris for playing along with
me yesterday. On July 25th you will undoubtedly
be reminiscing about this cold shoot!
Here are some warm ones....

I'm off to photograph Owen & Reese today!

Stay warm!

Bye Oh Baby Bunting...

2008-12-04T07:39:00.006-06:00

Gary's gone a hunting.....AGAIN!

A teeeeeeny bit more snow overnight.
Not enough to shovel or plow but it
does add a fresh layer of white to
everything...pretty, really.

When Gary is gone, Boo gets crazy.
Gary is an early riser...me? not so much.
So this means that in the weeee hours
Boo gets bored. That's when things
get interesting. First a lovely kiss
on the lips....yes, the lips (a terrific
exfoliating process for those dry winter
lips!). Then, when that's not working he
gets a little more daring and paws at my
back~now I've had my lips done and a back
massage! I warn you, however, that this is
NOT programmable so don't run right out and
get a cat just yet! ;) I got lucky.
On to strategy #3...Boo leaps up on to the
headboard where he will locate anything
left there (remote, votive, phone, back
scratcher) and proceed to paw at it until
it topples and crashes on to my head.
It's true what they say..."Third time's the
charm." 'cuz that usually does it for me.
One day, I think he will figure it out and
go right for the remote! He's mighty bright.

Today, I am on call for NILMDTS. Pray that
I don't get any calls....that would be lovely!

I'm shooting an engagement session this afternoon
in the Uptown area and it's a little chilly
today so I'm sure we'll be venturing indoors
rather quickly.

HUGE news....my flip arrived yesterday!
Funny thing about shipping is if you ask for
2-3day shipping, it costs more but you get it in
2-3 days. If you order ground 5-7 days (less
expensive, you get it in 3 days...Niiiiiiiice!
I'm excited to start using it....poor Boo & Gary!

Getting together with the MOFAS folks again today.
They want to involve me in their "Hill Day" in
January so we are going to discuss what this
organization can effectively do to gain the State's
interest and support in their fight to educate
the public about Fetal Alcohol Syndrome!
More to come on that subject, the date and my
involvement.

NACE event last night at the Bloomington Sheraton.
Always a great time. I won more stuff in the raffle
(no hotel stay) and bid on some really cool gift
baskets..I'm enjoying the coffee from Starbucks
right now and last night lit a bunch of candles
that rest on this glass (looks like ice) tray from
Crate & Barrel...um, do they have clothing at
Crate & Barrel? Cuz it's just the beginning of
December and I already feel like a barrel could
be my next outfit! ;)

Hey..thanks for reading...I promise to post photos
soon of all that's been going on.