Photography, Art, and Motherhood

Beautiful {A} Sneak Peek- LJ Longfellow Santa Fe Senior Portrait Photographer

2011-08-24T19:59:00.002-07:00

{A},

Thank you for trusting me with your senior photos. I had so much fun with you, your best friend and family. The images are coming out so beautiful that I couldn't wait to share some with you. Here are just a few for now and I will have your gallery up with all your proofs shortly. I hope you love them as much as I do!!!

Thanks again,
Lorissa J. Longfellow

Baby Girl {J} - LJ Longfellow Santa Fe Newborn Photographer

2011-05-11T11:05:00.000-07:00

Jonas Family,

Thank you so much for inviting me into your home to celebrate the birth of your first child. What a delight to work with all of you. She is so sweet, you are truly blessed.

Here is a sneak peek of some of my favorites. I will have your gallery up soon. I do hope you love them.

Thank you,

Lorissa

D & B - Santa Fe Maternity Photographer

2011-04-07T11:07:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to share the happyness of this beautiful couple who is expecting their first child. Thank you Deb for trusting me with photos of this important time in your lives. I do hope you love them, it was a fun shoot. Can't wait to meet your baby.

Here are some of my favorites.

Loving this in color and sepia.

Lorissa
www.ljdesignphoto.com
Facebook Fan Page

the {B} family - Santa Fe Family Portrait Photographer

2010-11-27T23:07:00.000-07:00

D, K, & E, I just wanted to send you a quick sneek peek at your photos as I'm finishing them up. I had lots of fun at our session and I hope you did too. What a beautiful family, each and every one of you.
Thanks and enjoy,
Lorissa

the {M} Family - Santa Fe Portrait Photographer

2010-11-15T20:36:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to give you a sneak peek to see how your photos are coming along. I hope you like them, I think they are turning out great. I will let you know when they are all, should be soon.

Thank you,
Lorissa

Jessica- Santa Fe Maternity Photographer

2010-10-21T22:58:00.000-07:00

Jessica,
Thank you for sharing such an important time in your life with me and trusting me with your photos. I wanted to share a little sneak peek of how they are coming along. I hope you love them.
And I can't wait to meet Isabelle, such a beautiful name, I know she is going to be a beautiful girl just like her mother.

Lorissa
www.ljdesignphoto.com
Facebook Fan Page

Anna- Santa Fe Maternity Photographer

2010-09-13T18:24:00.007-07:00

Anna,
Thank you so much for trusting me with your photos. I do hope you love how these are coming out. Just wanted to share a few of my favorites from what I edited so far.
I think you look amazing.

Lorissa
www.ljdesignphoto.com
Facebook Fan Page

Syd - Santa Fe Senior Photographer

2010-08-30T19:50:00.003-07:00

Syd, I'm loving the way your photos are coming out. I hope you do too. Here is a little sneak peek. Thanks for letting me photograph you. Enjoy - more to come.

Lorissa
LJ Longfellow Photography

Route 66 - Blue Ford in Holbrook

2010-06-01T10:22:00.005-07:00

I love to just drive and see what is out there. On a road trip it takes me forever to get anywhere because I keep stopping and exploring little ruins and other sites along the way. I love to take the back roads and stay off the highway. This spring break a friend and I ventured to Vegas and on the way home we stopped for the night to stay at the wigwam motel. This is the second time I've stayed at this Route 66 classic and it is always so much fun for the kids. The family has classic cars sitting around the parking lot and it is just such a great place to get some pictures. This is done with two exposures merged using HDR. I saturated the blue paint and the red rust for fun.

I have so many photos taken and just archived that I really need to get to work on them. I hope your like this new addition to my collection.

For more Route 66 photos visit my etsy shop.

Wordless Wednesday - More of Hovenweep

2010-05-19T19:28:00.001-07:00

Village of the Past

2010-05-16T12:19:00.004-07:00

Each time I wander the southwest I seem to be called back to a small group of prehistoric, Puebloan-era villages located in the southeastern corner of Utah. Hovenweep National Monument, a landscape of canyons and mesa tops, is a small but captivating part of our National Park System. I don't know if it is the beautiful ruins, the natural, undeveloped nature, or just the its solitude of that draws me, but I find each time it is worth the drive.

There are 6 villages in the area, but the Square Tower Group is the easiest to access and was the largest of the villages. Here is a view of some of its ruins from inside the canyon in the late morning. (I had hope to get out at sunrise, but it was raining and I was not prepared for rain.) You can see how the rocks have shifted over time and part of the ruins have fallen into the canyon. Still the towers that are still standing are very interesting. As I walk the trail I find it difficlut to believe that 500 people lived in this village. The historians base this figure on the nearly 30 kivas that they have found hidden around the village.
Of course I have more photos to share and hope to get to them soon.
Have a wonderful day!
Lorissa

Sneak Peak - Blue, Blue Eyes - Santa Fe Child Photographer

2010-05-01T18:20:00.009-07:00

During my latest session the wind was blowing during one of the worst spring storms I have ever seen since I moved west. It tore up trees and cause minor destruction all though the west. Rather then cancel the session the girl's mother and I decided to just do the whole session using my new black muslin background. Normally I use natural backgrounds and light, but this time it was only natural light. I think they turned out well, but I wish I had more backgrounds to play with now.

The hat was knitted by Casey of Flower Girl Designs and looked great with the purple zebra striped skirt.

Thanks for stopping by and have a great day,
Lorissa

Staying Grounded on Earth Day!

2010-04-21T21:29:00.007-07:00

Today, the 40th Anniversary of Earth Day, is a great day to reflect not only the changes we can make to help the earth's ecosystem, but also why. For me my child's future, health and happiness is more then enough reason to do my best for the earth. I want her to be able to roll down the grassy hill in summer, lay down under the Aspens in fall and be amazed by the contrast of golden leaves and blue sky, to build snowmen in the winter snow, and the experience the rebirth of spring each year. My daughter keep me grounded and aware of how my actions effect so many things.

We all have our own reason to help the earth's ecosystem and the important thing is to do our best each day. Whether your contribution is small or large, it is a step forward and when we add up each small step we will realized that all those small steps have created real change.

Have a beautiful day,
Lorissa

And the winner is.......

2010-04-19T06:39:00.004-07:00

Touching Heaven!

As of today the title of this beautiful Alaskan landscape is Touching Heaven.

Thank you Alice Istanbul for your wonderful suggestion. It does look like the heavens are opening up to give us a glimpse of the beauty. For coming up with the winning title Alice has won $30 credit in any of my shops!

Thank you to all who participated! Have a beautiful day!
Lorissa

Dreaming in Spring

2010-04-14T19:57:00.003-07:00

I dreamed of soft white blooms against a sky blue.
I dreamed of the warmth of the sun on my skin.
Dreaming in spring of things that are true.

Spring Emerges - Tulip

2010-04-13T20:06:00.003-07:00

The days grow longer and warmer. Birds sing the songs of spring while beautiful greens, yellows and reds emerge from the ground.

I have yearned for spring for the last few months and finally it is here.

Enjoy the beauty.
Lorissa

Spring Snow in Santa Fe

2010-04-11T21:22:00.005-07:00

One of my favorite streets in Santa Fe is Garcia Street. It is just off the famous Canyon Road, know for it's many wonderful art galleries.
The gallery I work for part-time, Mark White Fine Art, is just off this street and I took these photos a couple of weeks ago just after the last spring snow and right before work. The sky was gray with the threat of more show, but it was so beautiful.
If you ever visit Santa Fe this is a great area to visit. There is a great little coffee shop called the Downtown Subscription that serves the best cafe mocha, Garcia Street Books, and the Photo-eye Gallery and Bookshop, in a small corner just a block off of Canyon Road. On Canyon road there are many wonderful galleries with all types of arts and crafts represented.

I hope you enjoyed! Have a wonderful and warming spring!
Lorissa

I can't decide!!

2010-04-11T17:09:00.003-07:00

Eight people entered my contest and each had a great title or two. They were all so wonderful that I could not decide on just one, so I putting my favorites in a poll and the person with the most votes will win!
The polls close in a week and the final winner will be announced on Monday, April 19th.

Now for the winner of the ACEO. There were a few people who I entered their names, because they put it on Facebook and let me know via email. The number generator came up with 1 which is Kaelin (who tweeted and facebook-ed). Yea for Kaelin Cordis, she will get to choose the ACEO she likes best!

Thank you to all who entered my contest and helped spread the word.

Lorissa

Wordless Wednesday - Petrified Forest National Park

2010-03-24T00:01:00.000-07:00

Giveaway - Spread the word and Win a ACEO

2010-03-17T07:14:00.005-07:00

I need help spreading the word about my Contest to win $30 in LJDesignphoto shop credit and win a free ACEO (your choice) and a badge to your blog or shop on my blog for the next year. So let everyone know via Facebook, Twitter, or your blog. You can use the image above for your blog.
Each promotion counts as an entry. You can enter twice a day, each day.

To enter:
Promote my contest on your facebook, twitter, or any were else you can on the internet.
Leave a comment below with a link to where you promoted the contest.
You can leave up to two comments a day.
If you don't leave a comment I won't know you want to enter, so don't forget this last step!!

When you promote just let me know with a comment at the bottom. I will use the random number generator at the end of the contest (March 31) to pick a winner.

Good Luck!
Lorissa

Win - Help me find a great title? Contest

2010-03-16T09:33:00.018-07:00

I just listed this HDR Landscape of an Alaskan Sky taken from on top of a glacier in my Fine Art Photography Etsy Shop and my LJDesignPhoto Photography shop on 1000 Markets, but in not sure what to title it. I'm really happy with the results and each time I process another HDR image I learn something new. Here I used the process to bring out the details in the clouds and sky.

I listed it as an Untitled work and now I need your help. I think coming up with a title is one of my least favorite things so I'm asking you to suggest a title a title. In just over three weeks, on April 10, I will pick my favorite and award that person $30 in credit to use in any of my stores!

To Enter:
Leave a comment below with your suggested title.
You can leave a new one each day to better your chance to win.

I will close the comments the night before around 10 PM Mountain time.
The winner will be my favorite title.
The credit will be good for 6 months and has no cash value.

Tell your friends and you could also win an ACEO.

Thanks and good luck!
Lorissa

*********UPDATE!!!***********

I extended the date of the contest to after Easter, to get everyone time to think more if they would like.

and Yes, you can enter more then once. Enter a new title once a day if you would like.

Also, help promote this contest and you could also win an ACEO and a badge to your shop or blog on my blog for a year.

Valentines for Preschool - ideas

2010-02-11T12:33:00.006-07:00

It's another holiday where Mom's everywhere are trying to figure out what to get/make with/for your child to bring to school to celebrate. Do we purchase those boxed cards? Add a piece of Candy? Temporary Tattoo?

This year I saw some really cute small puzzles at Hobby Lobby and thought those would be fun, but then I had to figure out a way to package them. With the help of my 4 year old we put together a clear back with the puzzle and a piece of candy in it. Then, we stamped out hearts and "Happy Valentines" on cut and folded card stock and attached it with staples. Lastly, my daughter wrote her name on the back of each one so the other children knew who it was from.

I think they turned out pretty cute.

If your reading this and just realizing that you need valentines for school on Friday, or Sundays school, then check out Etsy for Printable Valentines. You just download them and print them on your color printer. There are so many different and clever designs by etsy artists.

You can also find free printable and great ideas from sites like Disney's Family Fun and Kaboose.

Thanks for reading and Happy Valentines Day (just a bit early)!
Lorissa

Cherry Blossom Trio

2010-02-10T12:32:00.007-07:00

Spring Cherry Blossom III

Spring Cherry Blossom II

Spring Cherry Blossom I

Spring Cherry Blossom Trio is now available in my Etsy Fine Art Photography shop as a 10 x 10 set of three prints for only $60. I also have them listed as separate 12 x 12 prints listed in my 1000Markets LJDesignphoto shop for $40 each. You can also contact me to special order them in larger or smaller sizes.
This beautiful print set is done with a vintage feel in toned down colors and a soft but grainy background, allowing each blossom to stand out beautifully.

Thank your for your interest in my work.
Lorissa

Family Hiking in Canyonlands - Needles District

2010-02-03T13:12:00.016-07:00

This past fall my husband, daughter, and I went on a little RV adventure to Canyonlands National Park in the Needles District. There is nothing much to do there except enjoy the beauty of the the area. Really, in the needles district there are no cell phone service, no showers, but a lot of trails. Backpacking, hiking, and some truly 4 wheel driving roads are the only way to explore this beauty. There are easy trails like one to an ancestral Puebloan granary and another takes you a historic cowboy line camp and prehistoric pictographs. Then there are long trails (about 60 miles of interconnected trails) to fantastic views, colorful sandstone spires, arches, and archaeological sites. The best way to explore these long trails is to go backpacking overnight with lots of water. Basically there is something in Canyonlands for every skill level and it makes a wonderful place to visit with the family.

During our visit we hiked a few of the shorter trails, along with a small section of the larger trail called the Squaw Flat Loop that was near the campgrounds. They do tell you that the longer trails are especially rough and require negotiating steep passes with drop-offs, narrow spots, or ladders, but we thought we would be safe close to the campground on a short loop between the two. LOL - We were so wrong. I didn't take my camera, because we thought we were going on a flat trail with not much to spot but cactus and lizards. The trail looped around and up and over the formation that sat right behind our campsite. It was amazingly beautiful, but I was a little worried as we were walking on the top of the sandstone structure with only five feet of rock between drops off on each side. The rock rose in a way that made it difficlut to judge what might come next and we kept just pushing ahead thinking it would be easier then turning back. We "scrambled" a lot and I even tore a large hole in my jeans from shuffling over the rock with my daughter in my arms. The photo above shows the formation we hiked over. It was just the lower part on the left, but we walked on the top of that and came down the steep slopes and sandstone rims to get back to the campground with a 4 year old in tow. Looking back it was beautiful, but I don't think I would have taken a 4 year old up there to hike if I had known. She did wonderfully though and it is a memory and accomplishment I don't' think she will ever forget.

The next day we hiked the Slickrock Trail. This is the longest of the short trails and is about 2.4 miles round trip. It was listed as having uneven surfaces, viewpoints, and sometimes bighorn sheep. We didn't see many sheep that day, but lots of beautiful views. This is actually a great trail for kids. Enough "scrambling" over the rocks to satisfy them (really very little for those who have long adult legs) and a few shady places to stop and rest when needed.

The panoramas from my blog post Hiking at Canyonlands National Park were taken while we were on this hike, but I thought I would share some more personal photos that show my hubby and daughter actually hiking.

As you can see they have the trail marked with cairns (small rock piles) which really helps you not get lost when the trail is mostly sandstone. Though, we did get off trail a couple of times and had to go back to the last cairn we were at and then scout around for the next.

The viewpoints were well marked. One you had to go out on a long thin rock formation that had a major drop off on both sides. This was the one viewpoint we didn't go all the way out to (because we had enough of our heart popping out of our chests the day before with our four year old so close to the edge of drop offs). Then, once we thought we found the view point:

Only to find this sign at the bottom once we figure out the way down:

You can actually see the sign in the last photo. I thought it seemed kind of a funny place to have the sign laying, but it worked and we found our way.

While this isn't the Grand Canyon, it is just as beautiful and a lot less crowded. It is a place that everyone should try to visit at least once.

Thanks for letting me share this adventure with you.
Lorissa

PS. I thought about being Wordless today for "Wordless Wednesday" but decided I had to much to share with these photos. Maybe next week.

New ACEO's inspired

2010-01-25T05:30:00.002-07:00

For some reason when it comes to my Artist Cards I feel the need to do something more then to add to the edition of a popular print. I feel they should take on a life of there own and often are a result of inspiration from others or just experimentation. This time it was a bit of both.
I recently joined ILP (I love Photography dot com), a website primarily for Child Portrait Photographers. It is a group of photographers that talk about and share their craft. One of the post, a tutorial about how to get an Ice Grunge look by photographer Andrea Joki, inspired me to play with layers more.
The results are four new limited Edition ACEOs. Each one as a different reason. The first was inspired by Valentines day and my love of bleeding heart flowers.
This card is limited to an edition of 14. The next image, Desert Dancer, was inspired by the many beautiful photos from this shoot that I have yet to process and list. It is a personal favorite because of my love of dance and the desert.

This card is also available in a limited edition of 14. and the image will not be offered in any other size.
I was also inspired by Mothers day and did a small edition of 6 of a beautiful ACEO titled "Love & Joy: Motherhood".

And last but not least, (Actually, this is my personal favorite,) is "Lost in Enchantment: Dreaming" Inspired by Route 66 and New Mexico's beautiful night sky. The original image was actually taken during the day, but the sky came out so dark in the original photo that it lent itself to becoming an evening sky. For those that don't know too much about New Mexico, it is the Land of Enchantment. The Whiting Brothers sign is just off of I-40, and on an old stretch of Route 66. Not much left but the sign these days.

All of these ACEO are or will be available for sale starting this week in both my LJDesignphoto etsy shop and my fine art photography 1000 Markets shop. Each is printed on archive Endora Professional paper and then backed with acid free watercolor paper. They are signed, titled, and numbered.

Hiking at Canyonlands National Park.

2010-01-24T16:54:00.006-07:00

Canyonland National Park, originally uploaded by ljdesignphoto.

I just thought I would share with you a few panoramas from our hike in Canyonlands National Park, the Needles district. This is one of my most favorite of the National Parks. We visited in Fall and I can't wait to go back.

Canyonlands National Park, originally uploaded by ljdesignphoto.

In this last one you can see the spires that give the Needles district there name.

Canyonlands NP, originally uploaded by ljdesignphoto.

I'm thinking of offering these in one of my shops, maybe as a canvas print so they don't need to be framed. Any suggestions?

Thanks for stopping by,
Lorissa

New Year's Resolutions - Not

2010-01-03T14:57:00.010-07:00

I don't know about you, but I don't do new year's resolutions. I seem to have enough in my life that I'm trying to get done without adding to it. But that said, I do though find that after a busy fall and holidays, that January is a great time to get some of that lingering to do list finally accomplished.
Last year I started at Weight Watchers with a friend and lost 25 lb. This was a continuation of a goal that I had started during the summer, but could not seem to get myself past a 5 lb lost.
During the last part of 2009 I have managed to keep it off, eat better, and continue to be active. I would love to lose 5 more pounds and I'm hoping to do this in the next month or so. Here is a photo of my and my daughter that my hubby took recently. One of these day's I need to post a before and after, but I really don't like my before.

Another thing on my to do list is to update and redo my website. I'm doing more portraits then ever, and enjoying it. My website does not let anyone know I'm also a portrait photographer and it really needs to. I love photographing both children and adults and really enjoy photographing a family in their home and capture them in their own environment. Here are some of my recent favorites.

Other things on my to do list include traveling more, finishing up some scrapbooks, organizing my digital negatives better and spending more time playing with my daughter.

So instead of adding to your busy life with new "resolutions", just say no and try to get some of that never ending to do list done.

Hope you and yours has a happy and beautiful 2010!!!
-Lorissa

Happy Christmas to All from Lorissa of LJDesignphoto

2009-12-25T07:04:00.002-07:00

Wishing you the best this season and throughout the new year! Thank you to all who have helped and supported me by being a fan and purchasing my work. Blessing to you all,
Lorissa

Last Minute Handmade Gifts for Him

2009-12-09T20:08:00.015-07:00

Each Christmas I find it difficlut to go gift shopping for my husband. If he wants it and we can really afford it. He is not into nick-nacks or buying things just to give as a gift. He doen't play video games, so new games are out, and just how many pairs of underwear can you give as a gift? Really?

So I thought as I searched I would share a few ideas for all you out there still searching:

Instead of one more necktie, check out this great wallet made from a recycled necktie, by Prix-Prix. This Bi fold is made from recycling a vintage necktie and a wool suit. Extremely functional it features pockets for cash and cards.
Also great for almost any guy is soap from the Beer Soap Company. They have all kinds of "scents" including this Outback Lager soap which is made with Foster's Lager. This would be a great stocking stuffer for any guy.

Is your man a traveler? Does he like little gadgets? Then these Working Celsius Thermometer & Compass Cuff links might be great for him. These handmade cuff links by luv4sams of the Empty Nest are so much fun, he will want to wear a dress shirt again.

If your looking for a gift that says a bit more, how about this beautiful tuxedo ring by Blazer Arts. This ring is made of oxidized sterling sliver and 14K white gold. This is a ring that would look great on any guy. You can find more by this jeweler at www.blazerarts.com.

Photography by Ryder Gledhill and property of Blazer Arts

Keep him warm this winter with this fab Hazelnut latte - Hand Knit Scarf by GreenCouch. This classic scarf in a wonderful natural color will go with every thing he owns. It is a made with a blend of wool and acrylic, so it is both soft and warm.

And if you man loves the open road or the nostalgic Route 66 check out my Route 66 Clocks. One features a beautiful Red Corvette and the other has signs pointing to the best known towns on the road. Both would make a great gift and look great in a family room, man's den, or office.

Good luck in your last minute shopping and have a wonderful holiday.

Snow and Christmas Light: one of my Joys of the Season

2009-12-07T08:27:00.007-07:00

In so many ways this is my most favorite time of year, especially now that I live in a place that has seasons. While it is cold and I don't like driving in the snow, the beauty of nature and seasonal lights make it so wonderful. I captured this photo last year during our Christmas snow. It reminds me that no matter how cold it is outside, home is warm, cozy and bright.

This photo, "Christmas Lights" is now listed in my Fine Art Photography 1000 Markets shop as an 8x10, but is avaliable in 5x7, 11x14, 16x20, and 20x30. The print will come signed and numbered on back and without my logo on the front.

Also new in my shop is the Item of the Day. Each day a different item will be featured and discounted. During the holiday season the discount will be an amazing 50 % off. Check back each day to find a great deal on LJdesignphoto's fine art photography.

I hope your season is warm, cozy, and bright.
Lorissa

Wordless Wednesday

2009-12-02T07:31:00.002-07:00

Handmade Gifts for Her

2009-12-01T21:03:00.006-07:00

Looking for something to fill her stocking? Or just a little something for a friend? There are a few ideas that are all handmade by Fabulous Moms in the USA.

First is Michon, beautiful simple jewelry by Leah Ybarra. I love her earrings and own a couple of pairs right now. She loves silver and pearls, and this shows in her designs. Because she is also a mom she uses "non toxic" methods of metal work and many of her jewelry designs are baby-friendly (fun studs that are difficlut for little hands to grab.)

Another great item is andreabaker's Business Card Cozies. I love, love, love mine and I often get asked where I got it. I even use it as a small wallet sometimes, I'm amazed how much it holds. This is a great gift for anyone who has business card to carry around. She even has a listing for a Custom Business Card Cozy where you can choose the fabric and style you want. He shop is eclectic and full of beautiful things including Totes and handbags, aprons, hair accessories and more.

Lastly I want to show you valeriesgallery, a beautiful shop of classic knits and felted treasures. My most favorite items in Valerie's shop is her Felted Bowls and Vases. Her work is beautiful and her craftsmanship is just amazing. Each bowl is a unique piece of art and a great decorative gift. For those that like useful things for gifts, Valerie makes beautiful handmade Scarflettes and Scarfs. In her shop you can also find lovely felted handbags, wallets, jewelry, and hair ponies.

All these handmade artisan shops can be found on etsy.com. Etsy is a wonderful place to find gifts that are not found in those big box stores. I find it a great place to sell my photography at my LJDesignphoto fine art photography shop and to purchase great gifts.

Something for Him, Something for Mom, Something for your Home

2009-11-29T23:23:00.007-07:00

You can get it all for 20% off or more at with my Cyber Monday and Beyond Holiday Sale. Shop my Etsy photography shop, 1000 Markets Art Photography shop, or my LJdesignphoto Fine Art Photography website.

In stock prints are marked as "SALE" items and are 30% off. The sale price is on the listing, so you just need to purchase them to receive the discount. These are in stock prints, so the discounts will last only as long as by back stock. Take 20% off the listed price all other prints. I will send you a refund via Paypal or Amazon Payments on these items. And if you order over $50 I will also refund your shipping cost.
It does not get much better then this. Route 66 and Red Corvettes for Him, perfect for his office, and lovely florals for Her. And landscapes fit into any room, a great gift for your whole family or a home warming.
Oh, and if you would like a larger print then you see listed, just let me know and I can make a listing just for you!

It's time to have a stress free and happy holiday season. Let me help you get there.

P.S. check out the Etsy FAM blog for more wonderful sales: http://fam-fabulousartisticmoms.blogspot.com/

and the plan for the coming weeks is to bring you the best small handmade gifts, great for any budget.

Dark Cloud and Abandoned House

2009-11-21T10:04:00.003-07:00

This abandoned house in southwestern Colorado was not by itself remarkable, but the early morning sun and looming storm gave it new life.
I see two ways of interpreting this image. My first instinct is that the storm is leaving and that the light is bring new hope and possibilities, but that might be based on my actual experience of being there, more then the photo. The second is of two forms of destruction. The house is abandoned and no longer cared for and the dark clouds of the storm just add to the feeling of loss of hope and love.
I'd love to know what you think. How it makes you feel?

Clearance Sale - Select Fine Art Photographs on Sale for a Limited Time

2009-10-28T05:00:00.000-07:00

I really try not to have sales of my work, but I've found that I have over ordered some prints and thought I would offer these prints at a special price. With the holidays coming up and everyone looking for deal this seemed like a great time to clear inventory.

So if your looking for something for your mother or wife, I have some beautiful flowers on sale, maybe even her favorite flower. Or for him maybe a classic Route 66 photo, or beautiful landscape.

The sale is in both my LJDesignPhoto Fine Art Photography Etsy Shop and my LJDesignPhoto Fine Art Photography 1000 Markets Shop. Check out both shops, because they both have different images and sizes listed. All prints on sale have SALE in the titles and are limited to items in stock, so once they are gone they are gone.

The sale end when inventory sells out or on November 14, 2009, which ever comes first.

A Morning of Autumn Now Available

2009-10-23T21:31:00.003-07:00

A Beautiful Autumn Scene Now Available in my LJDesignphoto 1000 Markets shop. This beautiful photo was taken on my most recent trip to Utah. The first night of the trip was spent in Southwestern Colorado and an abandoned house caught my eye. We had gotten up early and with the morning sun and mix of storm clouds the lighting was perfect. While I really like the photos of the house, I love this photo. I hope you love it too.

Just trying out a little HDR Photography

2009-10-19T06:22:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to try this new digital photography tool out for a while, but I really haven't had much time lately to sit down and figure it out. I also wasn't sure it was a good fit for me. So many of the images I see are beyond reality and I like my photos to capture the true beauty I see around me. There are times I go farther with images into more of a digital art, and there is nothing wrong with that, but I wanted to use it for the right reason for me and my work/art. I've also found that I still have a lot to learn about it (which is fine, because I try to learn something new each day) and can't wait to have more time to take it farther.

This abandon house caught my eye as we were driving out of our Forest campground in Southwestern Colorado. The morning light was beautiful and abandoned buildings are one of my favorite subjects. Just meant to be. My husband pulled the RV over and let me out, but then got concerned when it was 15 minutes later before I got back. Oh, but the photos were worth it and I would have stayed longer if I was alone.

This is Hamburger Rock Campground in Southern Utah. This place is BLM and beautiful. It is just outside of the Needles area of Canyonland National Park. The campground is fairly primitive and the road in a little rough, but it was so worth it. This is a view from on top of the rock looking down at our campsite.

These were taken from our campsite, it was a beautiful sunset.

Hope you have enjoyed!

New Photographic Fine Art Series Now Avalible on 1000 Markets

2009-10-13T22:11:00.000-07:00

I love fall, and I've missed it so in all my years in Florida and the Mohave Desert. But now I'm in living in a place with real seasons and fall may just be my favorite time of year.
My latest photographs are of plants and flowers in the fall. Mostly of the plants after going to seed. To me they still hold their beauty, it is just transformed. And it is a reminder of the cycle and magic of nature. I've just listed the first two in my LJDesignPhoto 1000 Markets shop.
To view my new listings just click on the photos above, or these links:
Fall Seeds l
Fall Seeds ll

Interview with Photographer LJDesignphoto: now on 1000 Markets

2009-10-12T15:52:00.003-07:00

I've started listing work for sale on 1000Markets, this great new marketplace. I'm only a member of three markets so far, but Camera Angles, a group of all photographers, is one of my favorites. Recently BriefMoments, who help write the market's blog, asked me to do an interview and she just posted it. She asked me some questions that no one has before, so I thought it would be go to share it with the readers of my blog. To find the interview click here, Photographic Reflections: LJ Design & Photo.
To find my 1000Markets shop use this link: LJDesignphoto Americana and Route 66 Fine Art Photography. I've been trying to add new images every week and it where you will find my newest work.

When in Florida, Do Disney - FL Vacation Part 4

2009-09-23T20:58:00.010-07:00

And for two days we did Disney.

Now if you have ever been to Disney World you know that two days is not enough time to visit the entire thing (I'm not sure two weeks is either), but we tried. We stayed at a Disney resort and for two days we had park hopper passes. Now with young children you can skip over things that they won't see (like fireworks shows) and, since they don't sleep in anyway, you can get to the parks early. But with young children you do have to take some time out/nap time during the middle of the day.

We tried to use these to our advantage and arrived just after the parks opened the first day. The first park we went to was MGM Studios. This is a great park to go if your children want to meet the Characters. My daughter just was beyond herself when she met Mickey. Here she is waiting in line getting her pen and autograph book ready.

After lunch at the Studios we went back to the Resort to rest, which didn't last as long as we had hoped, and then went to the pool for a quick swim.

Redressed and ready to go we headed for the bus station to catch the next bus to Animal Kingdom. Of course it was just driving away as we got there, so when the Epcot bus arrived we decided that we would just go there. If we were smart we would have called for dinner reservations right then, but unfortunately we didn't.

Epcot was fun. We got strollers for each kid and started towards the Nemo ride. Along the way the three year old fell fast asleep so we thought we might visit the world showcase first. When we got to France they had a Craft for Kids sponsored by Sharpie. It was paper masks that the kids decorated with the new sharpie color markers. Now I don't know about you, but sharpies are the last markers I will buy for my child. Okay, maybe when she is 17 and needs them for a school project. But seriously. My daughter actually said, "But mommy you told me that I can't use those markers." And I did, so I had to amend it to just this once. Here is her mask:

Each country had a little dangle that you could add to your mask, things that represented that country. We had fun until we couldn't find a sit down restaurant that we could get a table. I wanted Japanese food, but we should have stayed in Morocco like my friend suggested. Finally in China we found a place that had seating and food the kids would eat. Due to time we were rushing out as the fireworks started and headed to the Monorail for the Magic Kingdom.

We arrived at the Kingdom just in time for the fireworks over the castle, but the children decided they wanted only to ride rides. There were no waits in Adventureland so in less then an hour we rode Pirates of the Caribbean, the Jungle Cruise, and Aladdin's Carpet ride (many times). On the way back to the hotel both kids passed out. Here's mine:

Day two there was no sleeping in. We got back to the Magic Kingdom for it's early opening for resort guest. This time we headed straight for the Haunted Mansion. My daughter was scared at first, but I've never gone to Disney and not ridden it. I told her it was just pretend and as long as I held her hand she seem to enjoy it. After the ride was over, she asked if we were going back to the hotel. I said no and asked why. She said she didn't want a ghost to follow us home, but if we were going to the hotel that would be okay. LOL

After that we headed for Fantasyland before it got too crowded. This is where you find my daughters now favorite ride, Dumbo. I can't believe I stood in line for 45 minutes in the Florida heat in August to ride it, but she loved it and that made it so worth it in the end.

After all the rides in Fantasyland and some ice cream on Main Street we headed home. What a great time. I won't forget my daughters first time at Disney.

Visiting my Brother - Florida Vacation Part 3

2009-09-17T12:59:00.003-07:00

Yesterday's photo of the kitten Wow, Wow, Wubbs was taken while we were staying with my brother. Wubbs is named after Wow! Wow! Wubbzy on Nickelodeon. The last time we visited it was my daughters favorite show and her aunt remembered. My daughter loves her Aunt and Uncle, but what makes the visit even better is their five cats. She can spend all day playing just with them. Here are a few more:

While in Florida we spent about a third of our time with them. They live in New Port Richey, which is not a beach town, so we spent the time going to the city pool which is huge and a lot of fun, shopping with my sister in law, and playing Monster Mini Golf.

I think Monster Mini Golf may have been a little much for her. It was the her first time playing and she tried really hard. She actually did really well until all the black light lite monsters started to move and make noise around her. We did about half the course before she wanted to go. Wanted to go until we found the Duck Dance and Stomp machine. Of this she just couldn't get enough, but it was worth the quarters.

In the end we ended up with so many tickets that she got two handfuls of small plastic toys. It ended up being a great thing to do on a rainy day. And when we got back to my brothers place she started to play with the cats again.

Wordless Wednesday - Wow Wow Wubbs

2009-09-16T15:13:00.002-07:00

A Day at the Beaches - Florida Vacation Part 2

2009-09-10T05:00:00.006-07:00

Yes. I said Beaches, with an s. Well what else do you do when your on Vacation on the coast in Florida? A day at the beach of course. Or if you me, you make sure to get to two beaches in one day.
I had actually hoped to spend as much time on the beach as I could, so the second day of my visit we headed for Dunedin's Honeymoon Island State Park. The girls seemed to love it, at first. They didn't enjoy the sand on their fruit. My daughter really didn't like the seaweed that lined the edge of the water or the rocks that you had to walk past to get out to the sandy, shallow sand bars. It was also her first experience, at four, of waves. I said waves, but they were so small that I didn't even think of warning her about them. So small, in fact, they barely "crashed" as they rolled onto the shore, but when you are only three feet tall and trying to catch small fish in a net out on the sand bar, they can seem quit large as the water around you seems to push your little body around. Especially when your not expecting them. Opps.

Eventually the girls decided that the shore was a large sandbox and that building, mixing, and digging was exactly what they wanted to do. Ah, what a lovely day at the beach. It really was great till we decided to leave and we had sandy, tired, winy, and wet toddlers. "How quick can we get back to your home?" I asked my friend.

After a late afternoon nap and dinner we headed for Sunset Beach for Tarpon Spring's Music on the Beach. The night we attended the Bayou Boys played a mix of Country, American, and Rockabilly covers. Oh so, so Florida.

It was about a mile walk with the little ones in strollers and the strollers loaded down with chairs, snacks, beach toys, and the all important wine. The evening was fun, full of watching the girls play in the sand as the sunset with a background of live music and getting to know my friends neighbors. A relaxing and fun evening.

This was my last big day at the beach during my vacation because after this my daughter decided that the beach just wasn't for her. I can't say I was a big beach person while I was living in Florida, but when you only have a week or two to visit it a year, you want to make the most of it, and go as much as possible. Granted, I've ever been big on sand, partly because it can get in places it shouldn't and irritate, but I was disappointed that my daughter was more interested in spending time at a pool then the beach. But that is a story for another day.

Wordless Wednesday - Sunset Beach Evening

2009-09-09T05:00:00.002-07:00

Tomorrow - more on the images and our day at the Beaches.

Dinner and a Stroll in Tarpon Springs, FL

2009-09-03T10:19:00.007-07:00

In August I packed my bags once again and headed to visit family and friends in Tampa Bay Florida. I love visiting whenever I can because it is a little bit like going home. My brother still lives in New Port Richey and I have friends in Tarpon Springs and St. Petersburg. Every time I go back something has changed, but I can still count on my friends and family to welcome me and for a great time.
I can also count on The Sponge Docks in Tarpon Springs to not have changed too much. I know, it is a tourist trap-ish kind of place. But it is also one of the best places in the US to get wonderful Greek food. Yummy.
The first night of my visit my friend and I took our daughters to Hella's. On the way we were talking about food and the foods that other friends won't eat or even try. I made the mistake of saying I'd try just about anything. So of course my friend called me on it and challenged me to try some pickled octopus.

Now for me, octopus is one of those foods that look too much like the animal even in prepared form. I know it's a bit silly, but I was not looking forward to this challenge. I was looking forward to the saganaki, skordalia, baklava, and a good open face gyro.
To fulfill my challenge we started off with the cold plate that included octopus, shrimp, skordalia, taramosalata, tzatziki, olives, peppers & feta cheese. Everything was good. The octopus wasn't so good I would eat it all the time. It was pickled and I'm really not a big fan of pickled anything except dill pickles.

After that we got the sapanaki, or flaming cheese, just for the fun of it (something you can do on vactaion). OPA!!!!!!!

The kids love the show much more then the cheese.
By the time we finished the appetizers and half our gyros we were full so we took our extras and headed for their bakery to bring some baklava and galaktoburiko home.
After dinner we walk for a bit and stopped in the wonderful little soap shop, Lori's Soaps. They sold hand made olive oil soaps and some of them had a sponge added right into them. What a great idea. I only got two, but now that I'm home I wish I had more.
Here are some photos I took with my point and shoot during our stroll after dinner:

To see more photos of the Sponge Docks visit my last post: Wordless Wed.: The Sponge Docks

Wordless Wednesday - The Sponge Docks in Tarpon Spring, FL

2009-08-26T11:35:00.003-07:00

Tell me Thursday - A Ride to the Glacier and Ice Field

2009-05-21T06:35:00.001-07:00

When my hubby told me we were going on an Alaskan cruise for Mother's Day (our anniversary, and my birthday) I was super excited. We hadn't been on a cruise since our daughter was born and they were all quick weekend ones. I was looking forward to not cooking, not cleaning, and letting the boat rock me to sleep (really they don't rock all that much, but it sounds nice.) So when he told me he booked an excursion (we normally skip them) that would take us in a helicopter up to an glacier and that we would get to dog sled I was truly blown away.
So my Wordless Wed. photo was taken in the helicopter as we flew above a glacier. You can see the helicopter's shadow at the bottom and its propeller(?) at the top.
And it was amazing!!!! The photos don't even compare and I have a ton more to share. (even some of the dogs, which were so nice.) I will slowly be putting them up on my ljdesignphoto Flickr pages as I go though them. But for those who can't wait here are some taken in the helicopter and once we landed the first time. Enjoy!

Click here for more Tell Me Thursday stories.

Wordless Wednesday - A Fabulous Ride

2009-05-20T12:42:00.002-07:00

Come back tomorrow for Tell Me Thursday to find out how it turned out!

My Poor Cherry Tree

2009-05-07T14:21:00.005-07:00

Oh the fun of learning to take care of new things.

I've never had and ornamental cherry tree until this last year and it is one of the reasons we loved the house when we saw it. Last year when we first look at the house as potential buyers the tree was in full bloom and looked so beautiful. This year we were looking forward to enjoying it's beautiful blooms daily, but unfortunately it hardly bloomed this year.

The main reason, I believe, was the two late snows we had while the buds were just coming out. After the second snow most of the small unopened flowers just started to fall off the tree. While I got some lovely shots of early blossoms with snow on them, we never got to enjoy the tree in full bloom.

Not all the blooms fell off before flowering, and up until yesterday it still had a patch of flowers here and there. Here are some photos of it's last flowers.

Route 66 in the Mojave - tell me Thursday

2009-04-23T15:30:00.003-07:00

Last Spring our family took a trip west to see the desert in bloom. We also took the time to revisit some Route 66 sites on the way. It was a great trip and I took lots of photos. Last year I wrote a post about the beautiful desert wild flowers that were everywhere.
Yesterday's Wordless Wednesday photo was taken on Route 66 just outside of the Mojave Desert Preserve in a town called Goffs. This small town is kept alive by the Mojave Desert Heritage & Cultural Association and historian Dennis G. Casebier. A visit to the School House during one of their open houses is something I have yet to do, but is on my list of must. The group has not only helped this small railroad town, but many of the towns that Route 66 flows though along with other historical sites throughout the desert.
My photo is of the mailboxes along the road. In the background you can see the train as it comes though. I like the image in black and white too.

Here I'm also including a photo of the now closed Goffs Store building. Enjoy

Wordless Wedensday - Route 66 in the Mojave

2009-04-22T06:52:00.001-07:00

Just a Quick Happy Easter

2009-04-11T15:39:00.006-07:00

Happy Easter to all my family, friends, and readers. I hope your having a wonderful holiday weekend and have had time to spend some special time with your family.

We spent today coloring eggs together and getting ready for tomorrow. My daughter is a great little helper and she had to help me make the potatoes au gratin for tomorrow's dinner. We are celebrating the day with friends whom also don't have extended family in the area. It should be lots of fun, but a bit busy since I said yes to brunch and dinner.

I though I would share with you some of the eggs we made this year. My daughter only wanted four dye colors and really enjoyed coloring on them. Daddy made a southwestern(ish) looking one, and mine have flowers and poke a dots.

Tell me Thursday - Spring Snow Day, Yea!

2009-04-02T10:56:00.014-07:00

These photos are actually from Friday. We woke up to spring snow storm that left about 4-5 inches of snow. Just when we thought spring had arrived our world went white again.

It was beautiful and spring was still shining though. It only took two days to melt, but the weather has been cold ever since. Luckily, while my husband is stuck at home working over my daughter's spring brake, I have escaped west to visit family and friends in Kingman AZ.

Yesterday I posted my favorite photo from that day. I thought that buds of the cherry tree flowers were a beautiful expression of how spring was almost here, but the snow (just slightly melting) expressed the last of winter's cold. March this year did not go out like a lamb, but rather went out like a lion. But in the west all spring the wind blows fierce, no matter the temperature. So much for those childhood rhymes.
Here are more lovely photos of our Spring Snow Day, Yea!!

Wordless Wednesday - Snow Day in Spring

2009-04-01T10:08:00.001-07:00

Tell me Thursday - Project Kitty, Rescued

2009-03-26T07:40:00.008-07:00

If you have reading my blog lately you know my daughter loves to craft, paint, color, and more. I'm a little bit to blame for it because I would rather create then clean or exercise or make dinner. She seems to be falling into that pattern. So when we head off to the craft store together I find it difficult to tell her she can't get anything. On Tuesday I said yes to this Kitty paint and grow kit that she found on clearance. Why was it on clearance? Well the cat was broken into four pieces and the paint was dried out. My daughter didn't care, she just saw the potential. And for $2.00, could I say no?

Can you see the cracks? The big one in the front goes right down though the right eye and into the whiskers. With the paint on you can hardly tell. We just had to include a new first step of gluing the Kitty back together. She insisted that the eyes be pink (her most favorite color) and we only had a washable brown paint to replace the black, so it looks a little muddy. But for the work of a 3 1/2 year old I thought it turned out great.

The second part of the project was to plant the grass seeds in the plastic container provided. This was actually the much less of a mess part. Once we got it all together we put the bag on top and put it in a sunny window still. The seeds are only two days old and have a few more days before they sprout but I included a photo anyway. So in the end the little container goes right inside the Kitty and she as a cute decoration for her room.

So if you see a project like this on clearance, go ahead and rescue it. My daughter just thought it was a puzzle we had to put back together and we saved a good $4 over the regular price.

Wordless Wedensday - Project Kitty

2009-03-25T06:42:00.002-07:00

Come back tomorrow for Tell Me Thursday to find out how it turned out!

Monday - a few things to celebrate.

2009-03-23T10:59:00.012-07:00

I just realized that my last post "My Sweet Young Artist" was my 100th post. I really thought that I would be on my 200th by now, but I really haven't gotten going into a rhythm with my blogging yet and it always seems to get knocked way down on the to do list. I actually have some good ideas for post, but by the time I get to them the energy is gone. I seems to be an unfortunate side effect to being the mother of a preschooler and someone trying to lose weight and get in shape. I spend most of preschool time working out or doing chores. By the time I get to working and promoting my shop I'm tired and she is wanting my attention. It has not helped that we just when through flu season. It hit us hard this year because it was her first year in preschool. But I should celebrate my accomplishment and not dwell on what I had hope would be. You know those expectations can lead us to unhappiness if we let them, but only if we let them.

So lots of positive things to celebrate this Monday.

First of all, last week my online friend Leah of Michon Jewelry Blog and Michon Handcrafted Jewelry featured me on her blog. I was so wonderful of her and I really appreciated it. You can find the feature on my LJDesignPhoto shop here. I was part of her new feature where you recommend an etsy artist you admire. I recommended Valerie of Valeries Gallery and she posted Valerie's interview today. Valerie knits and felts things, but my favorite pieces of hers are her bowls. She make wonderful felted bowls and I have the pleasure of owning one.

Michon Jewelry Blog via kwout

I'd also like to mention that I have been working the last two and a half months to lose weight and get in to shape. I joined Weight Watchers and have been working out at least four times a week. I have lost 15 lbs and am now training for my first 5K. I'm really not a big fan of running, but it really feels good after my work out to have pushed myself so hard. My goal is still another 15 lbs away, I'm just so happy to be healthier. I really want to improve my health for my daughters sake and to give her a positive influence of eating right and exercise.

I'm not really a fan of this photo, but it was taken a couple weeks ago when I was down 12 lbs, but I wanted to post something to show my progress. I really hate to put up an older "fat" photo, but know I really am making progress and in a few weeks I will post another photo, maybe one of those classic, with my fat jeans on, images. LOL

And don't forget that this is my 101th post. And that I had 5 etsy sales last week. And that tonight is Mom's Night Out. I'm sure, I'm forgetting a couple of things.

So what are you celebrating this Monday (because everyday should have a positive edge to it)?

My Sweet Young Artist

2009-03-22T15:36:00.012-07:00

Mother's are always proud of their children and I am no exception. I feel lucky to have a daughter who's interests, at three and a half, include dance, reading, singing, music, animals, and most of all art. She loves to draw, paint, sticker, cut, work with clay, sew (little kid kits), beading, and just about any medium that allows her to create something. We have to create something new each day. Most days include a variety of mediums with many things created.

She recently made a large step in her drawing. She is no longer just scribbling, but actually trying to make things, from movie characters, to food (pancakes with a pat of butter on top), people and more. One of her favorite subjects is the family. Anther favorite is the large box that Daddy recently gave her. She has had lots of fun decorating it inside and out.

I have to say I am amazed how quickly she went from scribbling to creating figures and more. She has also started to write her name and has about three letter down (they are just never in the right order). I just had to share as a proud mother.

The Family with hair.

Monsters Inc.

Pinky Dinky Doo

A puppy dog and more

Tell me Thursday - Spring Emerging

2009-03-19T13:59:00.006-07:00

Yesterday was the warmest day of the this year and every plant and tree seemed to be taking advantage of the warmth and sun. The buds on our cherry tree are half out and I can't wait till it is full bloom. It is wonderful that spring is in the air and all the great things that come with it. One of my favorites this year is the park, now that my daughter is almost 4 and can really take advantage of it. Spring is one of the best times to go to our local park, not too hot or too cold. Wonderful.

So, Yesterday I just wanted to be outside and while I was out in the yard I noticed the way the sun was shining on the birch tree buds. The buds are just coming out and look a bit like pussy willows. I took a few pictures of other plants, but these were my favorites. I only posted one of the birch tree, but I had two outtakes I like too. So today I'm posting those today.

I hope you have enjoyed my photos and are enjoying the start of spring.

Wordless Wedensday - Spring Emerging

2009-03-18T12:37:00.002-07:00

Treasury Snapshot: Photography, decay, and old things

2009-03-12T20:12:00.004-07:00

I haven't had the time to snag a treasury on Etsy in a while, so I was completely surprised when I got one. Didn't even have a title in mind and just put whatever (actually "Random but fun"). I thought I would feature members of my Etsy team POE (Photographers of Etsy) and found these great images as I seached. Thank you to all the talented artist for making it so easy. Also, thank you to Tina of Pfeiffer Photos for featuring this Treasury and some of my work on her blog.

The Front Page &Treasuries

2009-03-12T07:17:00.003-07:00

On the Front Page of ETsy tonight!!!, originally uploaded by ljdesignphoto.

I was on the front page of Etsy last night for about 40 minutes. I didn't actually see it until the last 15 minutes and according to the Heart-o-matic on Craft Cult, in just that time I had 60 page views. Thank you so much Michon!

If you like treasuries come and visit the one I curated. Just a day and a half to go: http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=45644

Wordless Wednesday - after the cupcake photo shoot.

2009-02-18T09:11:00.004-07:00

Handmade Prizes Galore with the FAM 1st Birthday Bash!!!!

2009-02-15T10:12:00.003-07:00

You could win big just by finding some sweet cupcakes in participating shops and leaving a comment on FAM's blog. Simple as that. You can get extra entries by making a purchase from participating shops. Many shops, including my Fine Art Photography shop and my Handmade Cards shop, are having sales to celebrate.

40 artists have donated prizes, and they are all wonderful. Enter now because the celebration is only this week!

6th in the 6th - Giggle tagged me!!!

2009-02-13T16:16:00.013-07:00

I've been tagged by Amy from Giggleberry Creations! The tag is to take part in the 6 by 6 game.
RULES:
Choose the 6th image out of your 6th picture folder from your computer and blog it. Then tag 6 more people to do the same.

I only had one problem with this; I have more then one main picture folder, but not 6. It's just the way I have things organized. So, I decided to show you three photos, choosing from three of my computers, non archived picture folders. So here goes.....

This first one is from my personal photos. This is from last year's MOM's club party when I was living in Kingman Az. It was at our vice president's house and was tons of fun. It isn't the best photo from the party, but the rules were the 6th photo. We had a luau with great food and fun dancing. We were so loud that the neighbors complained and threatened to call the cops. Would you think a bunch of moms could cause such a ruckus. LOL

This is from another set of personal photos:
This was taken about 6 months after my sweet daughter was born. I think I look terrible and almost didn't include it. I'm standing next to my, at the time, new Honda. My husband took the photo when were were out seeing how the car handled on dirt roads. My daughter is in her car seat inside and we are surround by the Mohave desert just outside of Kingman.

The last photos is from my most recent photo file. This file contains what I have most recently taken and not really sorted yet.

and it is a cupcake. Not one that made it to the top four of the cupcake photos, while it is really cute I like some of the other photos better. As you can see, I'm terrible at deleting photos even when I don't plan on ever using them.

I tagged whimsical creations, Imperfection is the Picture of Perfection, The Musings of The Momma,Jennadesigns, and Julie Magers Soulen Photography.

FAM Birthday Bash

2009-02-10T10:42:00.002-07:00

For thoses FAMs, and anyone else who wants to blog about the First Birthday Bash here is the html code for the badge and it will take people to the FAM Blog when they click on it:

Sweet Givaway Winner is ...

2009-02-08T11:12:00.003-07:00

After a long trip to the zoo yesterday, it took me a little bit to get it together this AM. So I'm posting the winner a little later then I had hoped.

Only twenty three names to write down this time, easy on the hand. After writing each name on a piece of paper and folding twice, my daughter and I put them all in our favorite blue bowl. She mixed them up and then picked just one.

And the winner is April of The Musings of The Momma. Congratulations April!!

You will receive the first print of Cupcake # 3 and four gift cards. I do hope you love them as much as I have loved making them.

And remember, these cupcakes were made specifically for FAM's First Birthday Bash where you could win so many amazing prizes made by many faboulous artistic moms. The birthday bash start on Feb. 15th so come back to see how to enter to win my cupcakes and more!!

Thank you to all who participated!!

Valentines for the Class

2009-02-06T15:46:00.004-07:00

If you were reading in my blog during the summer or have every gone back in blog post, you know that my daughter started preschool this year. And with preschool the start of many school projects and activities to fill up our time also begins.
With Valentines coming up we parents were informed that her class will be exchanging valentines and having cookies that day. We were asked to send 20 valentines with only our child's name on them so they were easy to distribute.
Well, my daughter loves to "craft" and wanted to make her own. I thought we'd better get started now, because if we didn't they might never get done.
First we searched some internet sites together for ideas, and when she saw the Valentine mouse on AmazingMoms.com that was all she wanted to make.

They are actually fairly easy to make, but a little frustrating at times for a three year old, that is when there are 20 to make. The whiskers, which I made, were the worst part, but that is just because they are so small. We decided that instead of adding a note to the tail that we would glue dot them to a heart shaped card. I think they turned out really cute.

It actually took us two days to finish because we ran out of eyes googly eyes, so I had to run to the craft store while she was in school during the morning. It was a really fun project to do together and enjoy some time together doing something different. I hope your Valentine is as sweet as ours has started off.

Wordless Wednesday - Ghost Town at Sunset

2009-02-04T19:39:00.004-07:00

And the Winner is.........

2009-01-31T16:35:00.004-07:00

Can I have a drum roll please?

and the Random Integer Generator says,

"Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2009-01-31 23:35:35 UTC"

And number 28 is Sara, Congratulations!!!

Sara said... My best was last year being able to spend the day with my hubby and our first baby!!
Sara

I really loved reading all the comments for this drawing. Check them out here. There are some really great ones.

Also, my cupcake giveaway and 20 % off sale is still going on, so be sure to enter. The tags I've gotten done turned out really cute:

Thanks again to all who entered!!!!!!!!!

Protection? Just say no - CPSIA

2009-01-28T13:53:00.006-07:00

I think I'm as confused as the next mom/consumer about the new law from the CPSIA. I understand and respect the idea of the law to protect our children from lead and other substance that can be harmful to their health. I'm even glad that the government is taking notice of all the problems with recalls, but this new law seems to only make it easier for the large toy manufactures that have the large number of recalls. It puts up impossible barriers for smaller toy manufactures, crafters of handmade children's toys, clothes, and other items, and WAHMS (Work at home Moms) who's businesses focus on children's items. And this law has come just when I was finally able to buy handmade items that are safer for my child at a reasonable cost, and support other mothers trying to stay home and care for their children at the same time.

There are so many things wrong with this law and so many people that will be negatively effected that you might be better off reading it from those that have done much more research then I. One blog called Cool Mom Picks has a great post called Save Handmade and explains it well. They have compiled some great resources and articles that will explain the full scope of the law. While this new law does not effect my business it does effect my choices in the market place. Choices that I know are safe, but the testing was in the components, not the final product.

I hope this "Blog - In" day help bring light to this issue and makes the government aware how many people are unhappy with the law. I hope the media start to really cover this issue, too. If you care, please blog, call or email the CPSC, or your contact your congressman. The more voices the more they will have to listen.

Wordless Wedensday - Ghost Town Cadillac

2009-01-28T08:20:00.001-07:00

(found in Colonias, NM. Colonias was settled in the 1830s as a community of ranch hands. Originally called Las Colonias, it is one of the oldest settlements on New Mexico's eastern plains.)

Bloggy Giveaway - Bleeding Hearts

2009-01-26T05:00:00.015-07:00

Am I insane? Why give away more? (see Sweet Giveaway and Deal, Cupcake, you can enter to win this too) I think it is because I am insane? Or I'm just hoping to get more exposure, I mean that is why you do a giveaway. Right?

So what can you win with this one? How about something that would be nice for Valentines Day?
How about my Bleeding Heart Fine Art Print?
That's it, and in 8x10 with an off-white mat ($30 value not including shipping), so you can just pop it right into an 11x14 frame. It is great for Valentines day and spring.

And talking about Valentines, I would love to hear about your favorite Valentine ever. Was it in fourth grade when that boy you had a crush put a valentine on your desk? Or in high school when you got a red carnation from a secret admirer? Or maybe the first Valentine with your husband? Or let me know the Valentine you dream of.

What was mine? Oh, that is tough. I'm sure once I post something here I will later realize that there was something even more special that I momentarily have forgotten. But let me try.

One I remember clearly was the first Valentine with my husband, but at that time he was just my boyfriend. We had been dating since June of the year before and worked together, so it was all hush, hush at work. I was disappointed because I thought that there was no way I was going to get any flowers or anything for my desk. I had pretended to be single for almost a year, but of course there was rumors around work by now. Still I was sure I wouldn't get anything until well after the work day had ended because that would just be a conformation of the rumors.

Then, in the afternoon, around the corner comes a delivery main carrying not just a dozen long steamed red roses in a vase, but also a bouquet of balloons, a large heart shaped box of chocolates, and a sweet little teddy bear, and they were for me! WoW! The gig was up. LOL. But he didn't stop there. Later on my desk was an invitation to dinner with just enough information to peek my interest. I can't remember exactly where we went to dinner, but I do remember it was a wonderful day and I still have that teddy bear. Of course my husbands romantic nature is one of the reasons I married him.

To enter to win tell me your Valentine story and with it be sure it includes a way of contacting you. Comments will be closed January 30th at 12 pm EST. I will ship internationally for this giveaway.

For a second chance to win, blog about my giveaway with a link back and then post it in a new comment.
And a third, tell your friends via Facebook or Twitter with a link and let me know via a new comment.

On January 31st I will pick the winner of this giveaway using the random number generator ( found here) to randomly select a number associated with a comment entry name.

OH, and I have a sale going on in my store. It is a sweet deal, because if you put "sweet" in the notes to seller when you make your purchase, not only do you get 20% off, but you are entered on to my Sweet Giveaway, Cupcake!

This giveaway is part of Bloggy Giveaways Quarterly Carnival which runs January 26-30. Check out all the wonderful giveaways and free stuff you can enter to win at BloggyGiveaways.com.

UPDATE:

I have loved reading all of your valentine stories. Just wonderful. Thank you to all who have entered. I'm so glad I'm doing this via lottery, because I wouldn't want to try to pick the best story.

Sweet Giveaway and Deal, Cupcake!

2009-01-25T14:34:00.024-07:00

It is almost time for the Etsy Street Team FAM (or Fabulous Artistic Moms) to celebrate its first birthday, and what a celebration it is going to be. The theme is cupcakes and in response I thought I would offer as a prize in the scavenger hunt that fit the theme. So I went out and found a cute little cupcake, took some photos and now can't decide which one to offer as the prize.
So I thought I would let you choose. And to give you incentive to vote I'm going to make it into a giveaway.

Leave a comment letting me know which cupcake is your favorite and you could win a 8x8 print and four 3x3 gift cards of it. The most popular cupcake image will be the one I use as the prize for FAM's birthday bash. Comments will be open until Saturday, February 7 at 5 p.m. EST.

Want a second, third, fourth chance to win?
2. Blog about my giveaway, and leave a link in comments.
3. Twitter about this. Again, leave me a link so I know you did it.
4. Lastly, buy something from my Fine Art Photography etsy shop and put "Sweet" in notes to seller.

How do you know if you won? Check back on Sunday, February 9th to see who won. I will put each entry in a bowl and have my three year old daughter randomly pick a winner. It could be you. (I will also try to contact the winner, but if I can't and don't hear from them in 5 days I will pick a new winner. )

You want more? Maybe a sweet deal? How about 20% off any purchase in my LJDesignPhoto Fine Art Photography shop, just mention "Sweet" in notes to seller and you will get the discount and that extra entry to the giveaway. I will send you a revised paypal invoice, or a refund of you pay via paypal.

And what about FAM's Big First Birthday Bash? The celebration will start on Feb. 15th, so make sure to check back then for more details.

If your going to blog, here is a graphic to help you out:

A new post to announce the winner at:

And the Winner is.....

Abandoned Route 66 - Wordless Wednesday

2009-01-21T14:09:00.004-07:00

Untitled - Cuervo, NM, originally uploaded by ljdesignphoto.

(Cuervo, New Mexico on old Route 66, today a ghost town.
The settlement began around 1901 when the CRI&P Railroad came through.
"Cuervo" is Spanish for crow, and the town seems to be named after the closest peak.)

A historic day of hope.

2009-01-20T10:43:00.009-07:00

While we don't know yet how President Obama will be remembered in the historical books, we do know that today is a historic day and for many Americans a day for hope. You can feel it in the air, just as you could the day he was elected into office. It seems like it has been years since so many people are excited, and some nervous, about the inauguration of a President.

I think it is not just that President Obama is the first African American President, though you can't discount that fact, but part of the reason for the excitement is that Obama was both the underdog and a positive voice. It was the Americans that believe in him and did not give up that helped excelled him to the White House. It feels like the positive won out over the all the negative rhetoric of the last 15ish years. I'm not saying that the past few presidents did not have their positives, but there always seemed to be something negative looming over their terms.

Today I reflect on the past and consider about what I hope for in the future. I was glad to vote this past year for someone I truly believed could be a good if not great president. I believe he has positive qualities that will sever him well in this job and give many young Americans a new champion to look up to. I know that the next few years will not be easy, that even positive change can be a difficult road. I have a realistic outlook of the world and where our nation stands, but I still feel that in four years from now the United States will be stronger.

Mother Moment

2009-01-10T18:57:00.007-07:00

If your a mother, you know that every day, almost every hour something funny comes out of your child's mouth. I do try to record some of the better ones for my scrapbook, though I'm not really great at writing them down, but my daughter just said something that I had to share.

So, she is three and a half and loves to help me around the house. Tonight when I went to change the laundry she asked if she could help. I said she could for a hug. After the hug as we went into the laundry room I told her I really liked hugs.
She said, "I really like kissies" (tried to spell it as she says it, rather then the correct spelling)
"Really?", I said. "I would love a kiss."
So I bent down and she gave me a sweet kiss on the lips. Then right afterward, as she usually does, she wiped her lips with her sleeve.
I said, "What? Didn't you like the kiss? Why did you wipe it off?"
And she said, "I did it because I think it make the love more true."

Boy, how can you argue with that.

Adventures of a Lifetime

2009-01-10T13:42:00.007-07:00

The other night I was looking though some of my old Journals and found where I had written down a list based on a TV show I had watched called 101 Things to Do before you die. It was interesting to see what I wrote down in 2001, and how much of it I would still love to do. Here is the list I wrote down:

*See the Aurora Borealis
Skinny dip- done
*Go to the Burning Man festival
*Ride the Orient Express
Visit Time square @ New Years
Visit the Beach in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
*Join and archeological dig.
Visit Keck Lab in Hawaii
*Visit Machu Picchu, "Lost City of the Incas"
*Visit all 16 Smithsonian museums
Visit all the major Museum Cities: Paris, DC., New York, London, Rome -done
Visit Pompeii - done
Visit Area 51 area - done
Soak in the Dead Sea
*Take a journey to the Galapagos Islands
Be James Bond for a day, Visit Flemming's Golden Eye, where the books were written.
Take a screen test
*Visit Iceland's Blue lagoon
Join the circus
Visit Stonehenge
Visit the a rain forest
Visit the wailing wall
Take a trip to see the Titanic ($35,000 in 2001)
*Do the weekend space camp for Adults
And 101 in the program was to Make your own list, set a dead line, and make it happen.

I look at this and think, wow that is ambitious. A few things I have done, like visiting Pompeii, Area 51, New York, Paris, London, and Rome. There are also a few things on the list that I don't think I want to do or just could never manage, like visiting the Titanic, joining a circus, or taking a screen test. But there are a few that I would love to do before I die and I starred those. And lastly, if I was to redo the list today it would include (the stared ones I have already accomplished)

*Become a mother
*Visit Sicily
*Visit the Vatican
*Travel the Western US in an RV
*Learn something new everyday (or at least every week)
Read more of the "classics" (working on it)
Visit the Pyrenees
Visit all 50 States in the US

I just thought I would share this discovery and a view into my past. I do hope to accomplish a lot more before I die. What about you. What is on your list? Have you set a deadline?

Open Road - Wordless Wed.

2009-01-07T11:16:00.005-07:00

AZ open road, originally uploaded by ljdesignphoto

(so ready for some wide open spaces and the road, but nothing planned till spring.)

Wordless Wednesday - New Route 66 Photos

2008-12-31T13:12:00.004-07:00

New Year, New List, and more.

2008-12-24T14:08:00.004-07:00

Last year my big new years resolution was to start a blog and keep up with it. I think I've done okay. I would like to say I posted at least twice a week each week and kept up with my Route 66 stories. I can't, but I can make that a goal this year.

Other things I would like to do is finish my studio space out by the garage. It is a disaster and I have devoted little to know time to it. I would also love to be more organized and to cook heather from scratch dinners for my family every night.

But before I get lost in lofty goals that may or may not get completed this year, lets have some fun. I found this list on Giggleberry Creations blog and thought it would be fun. It has made me feel a little better to know I have accomplished so much and has made me think that I should add one fun thing to my resolutions list for this year. What? I'm not sure yet, but I do have a week to think about it.

The things that I have done are in bold. How about you? What have you done? What could you aim to do in 2009?

1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band (Elementary and Middle school marching band counts, right?)
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland (I have been to Disney World, but Disneyland is defiantly on the list)
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community (grew up surrounded by them)
36. Taught yourself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing (not the proper way, but have climbed some steep rocks when hiking)
40. Seen Michelangelo's David
41. Sung karoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie (my voice in a documentary about Salvador Dali, counts?)
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car (with my husband)
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a lawsuit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee
100. Read an entire book in one day

Feel free to share the things that you have done, and leave me a comment if you blog about it too so we can compare.....

I'm Deaming No More

2008-12-24T13:40:00.008-07:00

When we moved this summer to Santa Fe, NM I had hopes that we would have a white Christmas. I was told that it often snows just a little around Thanksgiving each year, but not much else until January and like clockwork we received a few inches of snow on the Friday after Thanksgiving. It was just enough to thrill my daughter and make her want more. After that when I asked her what she wanted for Christmas she would often include snow to play in on her list . We were both dreaming of a white Christmas and it looks like we got our wish. Yesterday we received about 9 inches of snow, plenty for snow balls, a snow family, and to make it a little difficlut to go anywhere. Which is actually just fine with me. We might even get a little more tonight.

It is only Christmas eve, but the joy of Christmas is already burning brightly in our hearts. The snow fall fulfilled childhood dreams and has made us slow down and enjoy time together. Presents have yet to be opened and Santa has yet to visit us, but the joy on my daughters face is irreplaceable and means so much more then anything we could have purchased.

I hope your Christmas and New Years is as wonderful as ours. Remember to cherish the special things that you share with those you love and just for a day or two let go of those stresses that sometimes put a shadow on the joys in your life. Celebrate the beauty around you and the giving that abounds. And remember a smile goes much father then a frown.

Tonight as I tuck my daughter into bed we will read once more "The Night Before Christmas" and as St. Nick does at the end of the poem, I wish you, "A Happy Christmas to all and to all a Good Night."

New Route 66 Photos for Sale

2008-12-12T08:24:00.002-07:00

I finally got some new Route 66 photos listed in my etsy shop and I thought I would share them with you.

This Motel Sign still stands in Kingman, AZ, but the motel is long gone.

Sleeping in a wigwam is lots of fun in Route 66 in Holbrook, AZ. The motel is still owned and run by the original family.

Laguna Pueblo is in New Mexico on what was Route 66, but is now covered by I-40. The view from the tiny rest stop is beautiful.

The Frontier Motel and restaurant still serves up greasy road food in Truxton, AZ, on the longest strip of Route 66 left.

Last Day for Great FAM Deals

2008-12-12T08:22:00.001-07:00

Visit the FAM Holiday Gift Guide to see Today's Feature:
**STOCKING STUFFERS**
http://fam-fabulousartisticmoms.blogspot.com

And get great deals with participating shops, including mine.

**TODAY'S SPECIAL - 12/12/2008**
BOGO 1/2 off - Item of lesser value will be discounted 1/2 off. See below for details and a list of participating shops. Offer may not be combined. Offers expire at midnight Etsy Time.

All Purchases made at participating FAM shops during the FAM - Made Holiday Gift Guide Event, December 1-12, 2008, will be entered in a drawing for FAM Bucks. Mention "FAM Entry" in notes to seller when checking out.

Participating Shops~
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5962556
http://andreabaker.etsy.com (offer can not be combined)
http://berrycreekcandles.etsy.com
http://imaginethatinc.etsy.com
http://keepyourbabyclose.etsy.com
http://kellydnlvy.etsy.com
http://ljdesignphoto.etsy.com (offer can not be combined)
http://ljdesigncards.etsy.com (offer can not be combined)
http://michon.etsy.com
http://newenglandquilter.etsy.com (Custom Orders Excluded)
http://momosbows.etsy.com (custom orders excluded)
http://RedBessBonney.etsy.com (custom orders excluded)
http://RedBessBonneyToo.etsy.com (custom orders excluded)
http://valeriesgallery.etsy.com (including clearance items! )
http://bluetricycle.etsy.com
http://appleblossomfl.etsy.com

Free Gift Card with purchase today!!

2008-12-02T10:25:00.003-07:00

More FAM wonderful deals.

Visit the FAM Blog for today's Gift Guide.

And these wonderful shops for today's special:
http://imaginethatinc.etsy.com/
http://jeweledelegance.etsy.com/
http://jewelryinfusions.etsy.com
http://ljdesigncards.etsy.com/
http://ljdesignphoto.etsy.com/
http://macaroniandglue.etsy.com/
http://mholland.etsy.com/
http://newenglandquilter.etsy.com/

What is the special?
**TODAY'S SPECIAL - December 2, 2008**
Free Gift Tag with Purchase - Please mention "Gift Tag" in notes to seller when checking out. Offer expires at midnight Etsy Time.

More info can be found on the our Etsy Forum Tread: On the 2nd day of FAM-Made my true love gave to me........Dec. 2 Surprise!

12 Day of December - Holiday Art and Handmade Gifts Speicals

2008-12-01T07:36:00.002-07:00

Fabulous Artistic Moms (FAM) of Etsy's Holiday Gift Guide is now online. Each day a new theme and special deal will be posted. You can enter to win free FAM Bucks to be used in participating stores by purhcashing your Chirstmas gifts. Today you can be entered to win if you blog about the Gift Guide and Daily specials. Just go to FAM's Blog for more infomation.

I'm not sure what day I will be featured in, but most day I will be running a special that will be announced on the FAM Blog.

Today is last day of my Free Shipping on all Prints. Also, recieve 10% off any purchase over 50%.

Route 66 Calendars and Shirts - Free shipping Monday only!!!!!

2008-11-29T10:59:00.005-07:00

CafePress is offering Free shipping on orders of $75 or more this Monday, Dec. 1st only. This is a great time to stock up on gift for the Route 66 lover in your home from my Route 66 tee-shirt and more shop.

You can get tee-shirt and sweat shirts for both men and women with some of my classic route 66 images on them. There is also a calendar featuring 12 classic route 66 stops and more! This offer can be combined with any items on cafepress. So come and find that perfect gift for the holidays or just for yourself.

Black Friday to Cyber Monday Free Shipping and More Sale

2008-11-28T09:05:00.008-07:00

Fine Art Prints for the whole family are on sale at my Fine art Photography shop on etsy. Route 66, Southwestern Landscapes, Motherhood, Flowers, and more.

Free shipping offer is already in each listing, but if you spend $50 or more you will also receive 10% off your purchase. Just wait for me to send you a revised invoice to pay. Offer good though Midnight PST, Monday, December 1st.

And look for more deals during the first 12 Days of December, a different offer almost everyday with my Fabulous Artistic Moms Group!!

Pumpkin Pie and Other Things I'm Thankful For

2008-11-26T10:52:00.007-07:00

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!!!!

I've been looking forward to this post since last year. I wanted to share the fun experience of making a pumpkin pie from scratch with my daughter. We started the tradition last year and I plan on it being one of the simple and fun things for us to do each year.

Last year just as this year, my daughter helped me scoop out the seeds and other yucky things in the center of the pumpkin. Last year we rinsed and baked the seeds, but they were not a hit with the family, so we didn't bother this year.

Then we steamed the pieces until they were tender and soft. This way the skin peels off very easily. By cutting them in small pieces it took very little time to steam. Then we put the pumpkin in the blender to make the puree. From here you can use any pumpkin recipe you choose. Last year I made our from the Fannie Farmer cookbook. This year I tried and Eagle brand recipes from Allrecipes called Perfect Pumpkin Pie. I'll let you know how it taste this weekend.

I love a good pumpkin pie and last years was wonderful. So much better the the store bought ones and the starting of new traditions with my daughter warms my heart.

This year I'm thankful for my family and their good health. That my mother could spend time with us this Thanksgiving. That this year we found our home, a new house in a new city and a place that feels just right. I'm thankful for my friends. Friends from school, from towns I've live, those I've met online, and for the new friends that have welcomed me so warmly into my new community. I feel very lucky sometimes and I'm thankful for that.

I hope that everyone feels as thankful and fortunate this year and always. Thank you so much for reading my blog and allowing me to share with you.

The Journey of Motherhood Celebrated in Art

2008-11-20T19:54:00.002-07:00

Recently I was contacted by Rachel Leavitt of the blog "The Beginning of Motherhood" about an online exhibition she is hosting called "The Journey of Giving Birth". She asked if I would be interested in contributing anything from my motherhood series, and in particular my photo "Touch". It sounded like a great oppertunity and I sent her a few photos and info on them to use in her blog.
Her blog is about what she has learned though giving birth and motherhood and is very touching. Many of her post are about the feelings of becoming a mother and how motherhood starts with the birth.
Right now the exhibit includes three artists; Erika Hastings, Eugenia Algaze Garcia, and myself. I believe she is hoping to expand it in the future. This is a beautiful way to celebrate mothers, birth, and motherhood.

Etsy Front Page!

2008-11-12T21:14:00.001-07:00

Etsy Front Page 11/10/08 Winklepots, originally uploaded by Etsy Front Pagers.

I finally made the front page of Etsy again. This time with my new card shop. You can see my Queen Butterfly mini cards or gift tags on the left, third down. Yea.
Thank you so much Holly of Winklepots. Your a wonderful curator and your have a beautiful etsy shop.

Just wanted to do a quick post. So much more to do soon.
Thanks for looking.

Wordless Wednesday - Obama Mama, Hope

2008-11-05T06:53:00.003-07:00

Make sure to visit the other Wordless Wednesday entries (or submit something of your own) by clicking right here.

And now for the Winners!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-11-02T08:30:00.010-07:00

I really enjoy doing giveaway's and I think it is a great way to introduce my blog and stores to new people from all over. Also, I really enjoy reading all the positive comments and love to see what people are drawn too.

Some of my favorite comments this time are:
Mistress Meeyee said who said, "Cedar Pipeline Ranch, NV..Thats the one that caught my eye the most.Breathtaking and somewhat lonely,I love it."
It is a lonely area and it is nice to know that I captured that and the beauty of the area in the photo.

Kay made me laugh when she said, "Okay so my hubby just about knocked me over to look at your route 66 series. He is a rusty crusty car guy.
Your art work is amazing. Thanks for the chance to win some!"
It is funny, I originally only photographed old cars, route 66, ghost towns, and landscapes. When I did art shows, men would linger in my booth, but I had very few sales to women.

Elsie said, "The photo of the Kelso Dunes in the Mojave National Preserve would be a treasure to me, to look at, as I listen to the music of the Southwest and to the drummers drumming...I can imagine animals, nature's wind and sun, and people weaving their way through this fantastic view..."
Thank you Elsie.

Paige said, "I love JOY- a study of motherhood. I wish I had a picture of me with my girls like that. Can you come and take one for me?"
Thank you, part of photography for me is capturing the moment and this to me is a great example of that.

OH, and there are so many more. Thank you everyone who participated!!!! As a special thanks I'm going to offer everyone 20% off one item from my etsy stores. Just use coupon code fallgive20, and wait for a revised invoice to pay. This offer is got though December 21st, 2008 and is limited to participants of my Fall Bloggy Giveaway.

I know, but what about the winner. Who Won??

After writing everyone's name (and comment number) on a slip of paper each, folding them

and mixing them up in a bowl, my daughter mixed them again.

And picked out just one.

The winner is Andrea Baker of Handmade by Andrea Baker. She has won a $30 shopping spree. I wonder what she will choose, especially since her husband is a wonderful photographer, too.

But wait!!!!! I decided to giveaway second place prizes; 50% off one item in any of my shops, to 10 more winners, since that is about as high as my daughter can count without swiching numbers and getting frustrated (she is only three).
And the second place winners are:
eyeslikesugar (80)
kristinwynder (68)
jessica (25)
pastormac's ann (79)
Katrina (101)
Sarah M (58)
Karen&co. (95)
Oh Mandi (29)
leigh (37)
altermyworld (8)

I will contact each of the second place winners with information on how to recieve your discount.

Now for the Winner of the Second contest, The Butterfly Gift Cards. This was a bit easier with only 39 entries to write on paper. Again, my daughter mixed them up and picked one.

(Isn't this a great felted bowl? I got it from Valeriesgallery on etsy.com )

And the winner is:
Sandy

Thank you, again, to everyone who participated. Please come back and visit me again here at my blog, in my stores, or become a fan on Facebook at LJ Design Photo.

And now for the small print: I will be sending email to all of the winners. Winners have a week to email me back and claim their prize. The shopping spree and 50% one item must be used before the end of 2008, hopefully sooner. If I winners have not contacted me to claim their prizes by Sunday, Nov. 8th, new winners will be chosen and notified.

Another giveaway - Butterfly Gift Tags

2008-10-29T16:54:00.011-07:00

As I finished these gift tags last night I thought wouldn't they be a nice thing to give away. Okay, not a free $30 shopping spree in my stores (click to find out more), but still very nice. So here it is.
You can win four queen butterfly gift tags, two of each color/design shown here. Each, as a set of four, will be offered in my handmade card shop on etsy. Just leave a comment and make sure I can contact you when it is time to claim your prize.
Shipping is free, even internationally. Nothing to lose, just some cute cards to gain.

I will pick a winner on Sunday right after picking the winner of the shopping spree. Feel free to enter both giveaways.

For more great giveaways visit Bloggy Giveaways Carnival which runs though November 2nd. Check out all the wonderful giveaways and free stuff you can enter to win at BloggyGiveaways.com.

Giveaway Time: Shopping spree with LJDesignphoto.

2008-10-27T19:59:00.010-07:00

Here we go again, time for a Bloggy Giveaway!!! This time I'm offering a $30 shopping spree (with free shipping) in my etsy stores and my personal site www.ljdesignphoto.com. You get to pick your prize if my daughter picks your name out of a hat on November 2nd. You can chose from prints, cards, magnets, gift cards, and more (you can even mix and match from my different shops). And don't worry where your from, I will ship internationally.

But first, you do have to do a little something.
-- I need to know what you like from my shops. So go to my website at www.ljdesignphoto.com, my fine art photography etsy shop, or my latest card and tag shop and pick something.
--I also need to be able to contact you, so if you are not a blogger, but wish to enter and don't want to leave an email address in comments you can email me via etsy or my website with your contact info, but be sure to leave a comment and a way to connect the two.

I will close comments on November 1st around 9 PM PST. On Sunday morning I will put the names of everyone entered in a bowl and have my three year old daughter randomly pick a winner. She will just loves playing this important roll. The winner will have five days to claim their prize by sending me a shipping address.

This giveaway is part of Bloggy Giveaways Quarterly Carnival which runs though November 2nd. Check out all the wonderful giveaways and free stuff you can enter to win at BloggyGiveaways.com.

Just FYI: I will not use the info you provide to contact you for any other reason.This really is a free $30 shopping spree, no shipping, no hassle. Thank you for your time.

Autumn in New Mexico: Balloon Fiesta

2008-10-23T20:27:00.008-07:00

So I continue the story of my busy October and a fun week (see last post for Monday's adventure ). Two weeks ago Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta was in full swing. My friend Mandy asked me if I would like to go down to see the special shapes take off on Thursday morning with her and another friend. I thought it sounded like a wonderful idea. We decided to leave a little later then recommended because we all have small kids and getting them up too early would just lead to melt downs later in the day.

The morning started off not so well, my alarm not going off and Mandy's call to see where I was woke me up. I told her to go without me and I would catch up with them at the fiesta. I grabbed clothes, my daughter, and the lunch and bags I packed the night before (good thing I did.) I ended up about 10 to 15 minutes behind them, and as I drove into Albuquerque I saw that most of the balloons were up and taking off already. My daughter enjoyed seeing the special shapes from the car because you could see a ton from the highway. There were flowers, a cow, bees, beer, and so much more.

We were so late that there was no one taking money for parking or at the ticketing gate. Basically the big event of the morning was done and they were not expecting anyone to bother coming so late. But after an hours drive and with friends already there, I was going. And I'm glad I did.

I knew that there was still a competition on the field, something about trying to hit a target as you drop something from your balloon as you fly by. Sounded interesting and with a nice large grass field it was a great place for the kids to play.

The target competition was great to watch. I was amazed how many times the balloons circled back around to take another turn to try for the target. And while I didn't get to see the balloons as they got set up and took off, I did get to watch them fly and they flew close, at times almost touching down. Also, I was glad to see the traditional shapes and colors.

Next year I'm hoping to get there very early and see the balloons that fly before the sun rises. I love the idea of the glow and rise in the dark. Hopefully my alarm will go off next time.

Here are some photos from the day. Again visit my Etsy Fine Art Photography store to purchase prints.

Fall: Aspens and the First Snow

2008-10-22T19:52:00.007-07:00

Life has been so busy lately that I've been terrible about posting. I've been so busy with Autumn activities and illnesses that I'm behind, again. But that isn't going to keep me from posting the wonderful fun I had two weeks ago.

Sunday, about two weeks ago, the first snow fell at Ski Santa Fe, a skiing facility in the mountains above Santa Fe, New Mexico. The next morning my husband and I drove up the mountain to view the fall foliage. This trip was planed for a week, but the first snow of the season was a bonus. It was my first time on a chair lift, and it was beautiful. Here are some photos:

As you can see it was a beautiful morning. These photos of the first snow are available through my etsy shop, LJDesignphoto.

My second installment about my busy week/month is Autumn in New Mexico: Balloon Fiesta.
Thanks for reading.

New Gift and Thank You Tags Accomplished

2008-10-15T09:09:00.008-07:00

So finally on to my update from the second of yesterdays Tackle It projects.

The dinning room table is, mostly, cleared (some things I need to mail out and my address book are still sitting on top) and about 70 more tags are done.
I like the results and will be listing them in my new esty card store very soon. Once they are listed I will add links to the photos so they are easy to find.

So here is my clean(er) table:
And this tag is my Autumn Thanks. A simple be elegant 2 x 2 inch card to tuck in with a gift or lunch. A simple why to say thanks. It is blank inside for your personal note.
Here is a Pink Butterfly Thanks mini card. Great for all ages.
I made another butterfly card with fall colors that works well for men too.
This little smile card is great for any note. Great for to tuck in a pocket, lunch, or to say thanks.
"Wish" mini card is one of my favorite little cards. And the last little card is this white flower on dark purplish pink. I haven't come up with a title for it yet.

Tags and Sausa - Tackle it Tuesday

2008-10-14T13:08:00.016-07:00

The last few weeks have been super busy. In a good way, with visits from parents, fun events like the balloon festival, a ride on a ski lift (for the first time), and a lunch date with my hubby. It was wonderful, but now it is time to get some things done.
I can't seem to get ahead in any thing, but today I will tackle a new blog post (done), make cooked salsa using tomatoes from our small garden, and make lots of tags for my new etsy shop of handmade cards and gift tags. And hopefully at the end of the day I have a cleaned up dinning room.

You will have to wait for the after photos. I will post them late tonight, or early tomorrow.

For more inspiration on tackling your to do list visit 5 Minutes for Mom's Tackle it Tuesday post and list.

UPDATE!

Yea! Salsa is done. And lots of it:

The top smaller bowl is a salsa for children. I has mostly tomato in it to make it mild and is cooked so that it will not go bad and make them sick.

Next is a bowl of the salsa for children. My daughter kept running into the kitchen to see if her salsa was done yet.
Once I said yes, she dug right in. It is one great way for children to get their vegetables.
Tags and clean table to come. That is my after dinner project.

THE FINAL UPDATE!!!

Gift and Thank you tags are finish and table cleared. See post above for images and more.

Beautiful Gift Tags - or Love Notes

2008-09-26T18:33:00.005-07:00

New Item!! Gift Tags.
Great for Birthdays, Valentines, Mothers Day or Christmas. Anytime you want to make that gift extra special.
Or you can just use them for small love notes. Great to stick in a pocket to be discover at work and let them know your thinking of them.

You can fine the Wild Red Rose Gift Tag and the Bleeding Hearts Gift Tags in my photography cards section of my etsy store.

More images and paper combination coming soon.