today is monday, correct?

A sure sign it's time for the school year to begin... I'm losing track of the days! We've spent the entire summer purposely avoiding talk of school, now we have ONE WEEK to reprogram the children. I'm quite sure they've forgotten about such things as homework, bedtimes, and Cookie Fridays.

Can you believe it's that time again?

We have several exciting things planned for the week - the hubby has even created one of his itineraries. (You just know exciting things are in store when that happens.) We've officially dubbed this as our first ever STAYCATION... which is just a fancy way of saying we're not really going anywhere but pretending we are by not cleaning or cooking. Of course, we had to start things out right:

Several members of the Little Peeps, getting ready for a gig.

By the way, have I mentioned that my oldest now wants a bass guitar for his birthday? A real one. The hubby is ecstatic. (I think he's secretly hoping to be part of the boys' future garage band.)

Anyway, my fingers are poised in anticipation; stay tuned for all of the fun and tasty STAYCATION details!

The most often heard quote from the day...

"It's about time."

My hubby's longtime friend/former bandmate was married yesterday. And really, the couple should have tied the knot years ago. (We all knew it would happen, it just took the bride and groom a little longer to figure that out!) Here are a few more shots from the sidelines:

My hubby (to the right) and another longtime friend/former bandmate.

The bride just before walking down the aisle.

The first dance.

It was a beeeeauuuutiful day for a wedding. Unfortunately, the huge amounts of sunshine contributed to huge amounts of LENS FLARE. (So that's what a lens hood is for... gotta get me one and soon.)

I'm off to seek coffee. Have a great day!

how sad is it

When your undergarments cost more than the cute little dress covering them up? I discovered this horrifying fact while shopping for an outfit to wear to a friend's wedding. I guess that's what happens when you turn forty.

I've noticed a few other unpleasant changes as well. But that's another post.

While contemplating the whole hosiery vs. no hosiery dilemma, I stumbled across this very cool website. (Just click on the highlighted words to the left.) It's chock full of age-appropriate fashion advice. Too, if you haven't already, be sure to check out BigMama's Fashion Friday posts. Because they are good. Really good. And funny.

Because when you get to the age where your undergarments cost more than your outfit, you NEED funny.

in my quest for new and unusual...

I found an interesting site where you can take a photo like this:

And turn it into something like this:

You can also create 3-D relief charms of your pet! For more information, click HERE. Too, you can also turn a photograph into a lamp or nightlight. The photograph is first carved using some "unique technique" and then assembled with a light behind the image. Very cool. Click HERE for details.

How about a personalized game of checkers? For real. Click HERE to learn more.

On a completely different, totally unrelated note... I shared a prayer request link HERE on July 30th. Fellow cropper/blogger/faithbooking friend Mellissa just received some AWESOME news!! Click HERE for an update on her situation. Thank you all for your prayers!!

ooh... aah...

In gearing up for fall, I've been looking for fun and unique add-ons to offer my photography customers. Sterling customized jewelry will be one of those options! The necklace featured above is available for only $35 (chain upgrades are also available).

Here are several other styles, all priced at $75:

And two ring options, each priced at $35:

The above pieces work best with single, closely cropped shots. An option for family shots is priced at $55 and featured below:

Any one of these pieces would make a memorable gift for grandmothers, Godmothers, or as a beautiful keepsake for yourself! The average turnaround time is 3-5 weeks; please take that into consideration when scheduling your photo session.

i had great plans for this tricycle

But the little guy I photographed today wanted NOTHING to do with it inside the house! I did capture this sweet shot:

Umm, yes. He's sticking his tongue out at me. And then there was this one:

Yes, running away from me.

All kidding aside, we had LOTS of fun and ended up with several very cute shots:

it little bit scary and exciting at the same time

I just received word from NILMDTS this morning... my application has been approved! There's still paperwork to tend to and training to be had but the door is open. Do you remember the reservations and doubts I had before filling out the application? (If not, the original post is HERE.)

Well, I've still got 'em. This just means I need to rely on Him. Completely.

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go," says the Lord. Joshua 1:9

Jesus said, "My grace is sufficient for you, my power is made perfect in weakness." 2 Corinthians 12:9

I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13