Picture a Day

Getting Prepared for Tomorrow

2010-11-29T20:26:00.001-06:00

Jack is a perfectionist. He lays his clothes out every evening in preparation for tomorrow (I don’t tell him ,he just does it). Look at how he lays them out, as if they are on his body...right down to the underwear and sock placement. LOL This is sooooo his fathers son.

Katy's Catfish Cabin

2010-11-28T15:28:00.000-06:00

Another roadtrip yesterday, this one with my cousins. We went on the "Hammers World Tour". We managed to make the rounds to three different Hammers stores yesterday: Fort Payne, Al, Guntersville, Al and South Pittsburgh, Tennessee. We stopped into Katy's Katfish Cabin for some lunch. I had the best onion rings in my life there.
The door to the cabin was this turquoise one. There was some railing outside with the most wonderful texture and chipped paint on it, so I took that picture too. I thought I could use it in some backgrounds or something.

Jesus Loves Us All

2010-11-23T20:27:00.000-06:00

Jack has never written on our family chalkboard. We’ve had it for years. Just me and Elaina, sometimes Brock. Never, not once Jack. But I noticed this message last week, I don’t know who long it had been there before I noticed. I had to take a picture of it. Its my phone wallpaper.
So precious!

Jack is Baptized

2010-11-21T15:31:00.001-06:00

My youngest, Jack, made the decision to be baptised on Sunday November 21st, after being saved last month at a community event called "Awakening". In fact, he actually spoke and arranged his baptism with the preacher, and then told me!
We are very proud of Jack in his decision. He is a joy in my life and a very special young man.

Birthday Breakfast

2010-11-20T20:31:00.000-06:00

We, Clemati, celebrated the birthdays of Sweet Melissa (aka Thriller) and Miller (aka Luda) with a birthday breakfast from 9-11. We had breakfast casserole, fruit, nuts, blueberry cobbler and mimosa's.
Not getting older...but getting better. Here is to my girls.....

Quidditch on the Campus

2010-11-14T20:40:00.001-06:00

I was hired to take pictures on the campus of University of Alabama. I asked Brock to meet me so we could spend a little time together before and after my gig. While I took pictures, he led his grandmother and sister on a tour (a very goo one I was told) of the campus. Hopefully I will get a raincheck for another tour.

But it was what happened as soon as we arrived, parked the car and got out that was really interesting.
A boy went running by on a broom.
A broom.
Between his legs.

Brock began to laugh as he explained, "Oh, my goodness. They are playing quiddich....you know, the game for Harry Potter. I actually ref'd a game earlier this week. There were a thousand kids there." About that time we rounded the corner to find close to a thousand of college kids... Some on brooms, many in costume, most speaking with a French accent.

Here is the article from the campus news of the day event:
http://uanews.ua.edu/2010/11/ua-students-mount-brooms-for-ground-quidditch/

Tuscaloosa News:
http://www.tuscaloosanews.com/article/20101115/NEWS/101119782

Video:
http://www.cw.ua.edu/2010/11/15/quidditch-on-the-quad-video/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4HVeDL41NNc&feature=related

Kathryn Tucker Windham

2010-11-07T14:15:00.001-06:00

In September my mother celebrated her birthday. For that occasion, I gave my mother tickets for her and I to see author and famed storyteller, Katherine Tucker Windham speak at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens on November 7th. Ms. Windham appeared with another storyteller and author, Dolores Hydock. They spoke of fond memories, growing up. It was a delightful event! And one that I enjoyed sharing with my mom.

Bell Buckle Cafe

2010-11-06T14:08:00.000-05:00

I love a road trip to Bell Buckle Cafe. It's always a pleasureable trip. Today was no different. I made the trip with my mother, Aunt Wanda, Uncle David and cousin Gina.
I had a vegetable plate for lunch: skillet potatoes, cucumber salad, broccoli salad, slaw, blueberry salad, cornbread and to top it off....a slice of warm oatmeal cake. Bell Buckle, my favorite restaurant!

Day of the Dead Celebration

2010-11-02T14:18:00.001-05:00

My friend Zinnia (Warrior Princess) called me last night and invited me to go with her to the Day of the Dead Festival downtown Birmingham. "YES!!!!" I shouted. It was a festival I have wanted to attend. And if I couldn't attend in Mexico, the next best thing was to be with my Mexican friend in Birmingham at the Bare Hands Gallery.

The Day of the Dead Festival in Birmingham was the Fifth annual art and cultural festival honoring the Mexican celebration of lost loved ones.El Día de los Muertos at Bare Hands Gallery honors the Mexican tradition in which families gather in local cemeteries to remember their lost loved ones. It is similar to what we in the southern United States refer to as Decoration Day. However, In Mexico, Day of the Dead is an artful, multi-faceted celebration. Each town has a unique way of commemorating the day, but certain symbols are constant. Altars of remembrance display photos of the deceased; their favorite things in life, such as foods, books, games, beverages, cigarettes; marigolds; prayer candles; salt; spices; and copal incense. Family and friends gather around these altars at home and in the cemeteries to share music, memories and prayers.

The ancient belief is that the souls of the deceased will come to visit during Day of the Dead guided by the familiar colors and scents of food, incense and flowers. Other traditional elements include skeletons depicting the deceased doing everyday activities; monarch butterflies whose fall arrival in Mexico symbolizes souls returning to visit; flowers, particularly marigolds, adorning every altar and gravestone; sugar skulls which children decorate and place on altars, and bread of the dead a special bread baked for the occasion. The holiday is a celebration of those that have gone before us and of the memories they have given us. Day of the Dead acknowledges death as an aspect of life. The annual commemoration at Bare Hands Gallery combines community art installation and procession with remembrance, creativity, performance, music and food, honoring this rich cultural tradition and yielding an exquisite downtown arts and cultural event.

The festival was AWESOME! I learned so much!

I couldnt post all my photos tonight via blogger, so I hope you will take the time to watch the slide show. Its quick (you can adjust the speed) and you can see the photos quickly. And you can see who I got to honor in an improptu celebration of the dead.

Peace. And may you find comfort in the loss of any loved ones you might be missing. I pray you take comfort in the celebration in Heaven.

Link: Outdoor Wednesday

Halloween Party at the Claridy's

2010-10-30T20:30:00.000-05:00

Saturday was the day we had looked forward to all week. It was the day of the grand Halloween party at my friend, "High Mae's" house. I wanted to invite you to come along too. You must see! Come on inside...

You must see her decorations (click on any picture to enlarge if any do not appear, click on the "X" and then back....it should be there then).....

Spiders everywhere!

I LOVE the witch in the mirror. These decorations were all "wallies".

Allow me to fix you a drink...

But the decorations were just the beginning. High Mae had games planned too. The first being a scavenger hunt. What's "spooky" about a scavenger hunt? It's spooky when what you are looking for are BONES!

WAAA HAAAA HAAAAA HAAA HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA (scary witchy laugh)

The children were seperated into three groups. Each group was given a clue card that contained a clue to a skeletal part, ie a femur bone, etc. The kids would go places to find the bone, even having to dig up bones in the yard. Every clue brought them to another part of the skeleton. When all were found they had to come back to their "base" to assemble the body.

Creepy enough?

The losing teams were forced (sorta) to eat brains. Marshmallow brains.

The more gross the better for kids.

Gross.
After the scavenger hunt, there were cupcakes to decorate. And marshmallows to dip into bubbling chocolate ...

Following a bite to eat, there were mummy's to be wrapped. IT was a contest to see who could wrap the mummy the fastest using an entire roll of paper...without breaking the paper.

The party was a great success! My sincere appreciation to our party host, The Claridy's!
I'll leave you with a few more pictures from the party...

Briz Bowl 2010

2010-10-22T11:58:00.001-05:00

By now you must know, if you visit this blog, that I cannot be limited to just a picture a day.
Last night was a big night, it was "Briz Bowl 210". Middle schools Simmons (where I attended) and Bumpus met on the football field in a head to head battle. But what made this so special is that the coaches of the two opposing schools are brothers. They were/are my brothers best friends. And like brothers to me. I think the world of them. So, last night I loaded my children and my momma (these boys were like sons to her) and we took in the game.
The game was well played, Simmons with Coach Brent Brizendine, was the victor.

The Brizendine women:

I saw so many of my own classmates last night, many with children attending one of the two schools. It always makes me happy to see such precious people from my past.

Lochamy, he was my neighbor for most of my childhood. His wife is a teacher at Simmons. LOVE them!

Mommas discussing "their" boys.
(Brizendine Momma Peggy and mine)

Such a special man to me even today (we have kept in touch since middle school) mine and my husbands's social studies teacher (now retired) and coach....Coach Wood.

It was a very exciting night. Congrats to both Briz men. I love ya!

Food Network Star

2010-10-14T17:19:00.001-05:00

Ladies and Gentlemen.....
ALTON BROWN!

It was a night custom made for my precious friend, "Sweet Melissa". Her food mentor was in Birmingham to promote his new book, Good Eats 2. Alton took questions....alot of them...from the crowd. He was very accomodating to his fans. Alton was so personable and has that dry wit that I so wish I were born with. So clever.

Misty Morning

2010-10-06T14:53:00.004-05:00

A cool morning brought fog lying close to the water at Old Cahaba in Helena. It made for a mystic display.

Boom Day

2010-09-18T18:08:00.001-05:00

I invited my mother and my cousin Marc to take in Fort Payne's Boom Day Festival. We actually went for the bands (I have friends in a band called Rock Candy so I went to support them) but I was happy to take in the other fun sites: a corvette car show, the food-including a BBQ cook off, and arts and crafts. And festivals are a perfect place to people watch....so if you are like me, you will enjoy looking, and documenting. I met such interesting characters and I always feel enlightened and blessed by getting to know new people. I always end up learning a lot...and not just about someone else, but myself too. The pictures below are from the festival, I hope you enjoy!

Birmingham Botanical Gardens

2010-09-06T21:59:00.003-05:00

For Labor Day we wanted an activity that was, well "labor" free, so we hoped in the car and headed to the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Birmingham Botanical Gardens is Alabama's largest living museum with more than 10,000 different plants in its living collections. The Gardens' 67.5 acres contains 25+ unique gardens, 30+ works of original outdoor sculpture and miles of serene paths. The Gardens features the largest public horticulture library in the U.S., conservatories, a wildflower garden, two rose gardens, the Southern Living garden, and Japanese Gardens with a traditionally crafted tea house.
And what sweetens the deal to the gardens, it's free! I thought I would invite you to come along with me as we explored the gardens. Hope you wore your walking shoes ;)

Ahhh! What a beautiful day to be in the sunshine! I hope you enjoyed the trip as much as I did.

I do want to make mention of an event that will be coming soon to the Birmingham Botanical Gardens, it is called "Southern Turkey Tales, Greens and Get Togethers" and features treasured storytellers, Dolores Hydock and (hold your breathe) the incredible and legendary Kathryn Tucker Windham.

Last year I attempted to purchase tickets last minute and didn't get to attend. I hear that the general admission show (limited seating) sells out quickly, so if you are interested I would advise you to purchase your tickets NOW, like I did. I will NOT miss this year! The show (held in the lecture hall) is scheduled for Sunday, November 7, 2-4 p.m. and cost is $25.00 per ticket.

A DEAL to listen as Ms. Windham shares her memories and tales with her captive audience. The tales will consist of basically southernisms, and will be weaved with such a painted vision of words you will marvel at her artistry. Did I mention, you really should attend!

To purchase your tickets please visit:
http://www.bbgardens.org/ or call 205.414.3958

Tags: Outdoor Wednesday with Susan: A Southern Daydreamer

The Rutledge Family

2010-09-05T22:02:00.001-05:00

Today I photographed the Rutledge Family (who happens to be my brother and his gorgeous family). They were smart and wanted to go ahead and scheduled their Christmas card portraits before the rush of the season. I highly recommend it for anyone who is considering it.
It's always a joy to be around my nieces. They love their "Crazy Aunt Leigh". And I love them to the moon and back.

Molly Griffin, Personal Stylist

2010-09-04T22:18:00.001-05:00

I was contacted last week by Molly, a personal stylist, to do some print photography for her business. As I began chatting with Molly, I knew a fun shoot lie ahead. And I was correct. Molly is a very driven, artistic and energetic person. She and I began to shoot emails of ideas back and forth and soon realized we were on the same page with ideas. And then, we brought it to life! I cannot say enough about Molly, what a incredible personality, a gracious soul, and one who certainly has "style" in so many ways. Thanks Molly!

If you are interested in Molly's services or to read Molly's blog:
Styled By Molly
Molly Griffin, Personal Stylist

Business and Home Seminars
Personal Shopping
Wardrobe Revamping
Special Event Styling
334.221.2315 (mobile)
mgriffin629@gmail.com

BLOG: http://blog.al.com/styled-by-molly/index.html

"Spike" the Catapillar

2010-09-03T22:14:00.000-05:00

I saw this little dude crawling along my deck today.

I had to call him several times before I got his attention. He was obviously in a hurry and had little time for me. Finally he obliged....

Sick

2010-09-02T00:03:00.002-05:00

I have been sick. Like SICK, with a bad sinus infection. On Sunday it will be three weeks and I am still on the mend. But I am MUCH MUCH better than I was 2 1/2 weeks ago. I was like a injured dog, just wanting to hide and be left alone under the front porch. I do that when I dont feel good. I hide. Because bad attitudes are as contagious as colds and flu.
But I had my precious husband who cared for me, even taking a day off of work himself to wait on me. The kids were also so good and would daily say, "Mom, I hope you feel better." Its time like those that I think they all can appreciate what all a mom does. It goes unnoticed...until it doesnt get done. THEN it's noticed!
Anyway...Tom came in from work one evening with what he called "some medicene from Walgreens". I looked at the box, curious because the packaging looked unfamiliar. It was the cutest thing....a RX for happy. Just look and read it. So cute.....

Tom filled it with my favorite candies: butterfingers, red hots, dots, jr mints.
He knows the way to my heart. Sympathy and love...and sugar.
How I adore that man.

GNO

2010-08-31T23:52:00.001-05:00

I am so blessed by precious friendships. God is good. So are these fabulous women who inspire me in so many ways. Last night was a GNO, we went to McDivots for some food and cold drinks.

Rainbow

2010-08-29T23:16:00.001-05:00

Have you ever wondered what really is at the end of the rainbow? Who hasn't. Well today I found out. The end of the rainbow went into some lush green grass on the side of the road way. (You can click on the top photo and plainly see where the rainbow lands)

This means either one of two things:
1. The pot of gold either isn't true....or I was "SOL" or it clearly wasn't at my end. (I even sent Jack over to investigate, as seen in photo #2)
2. Does this have any bearing about the "grass being greener" expression too?

Bowling on a Rainy Day

2010-08-29T23:10:00.000-05:00

It was a little bit of a rainy day today....to ward off boredom we took the kids bowling.
Elaina brought along her friends, Sydney, Reagan and Jordan.

Ciada (Cady-did)

2010-08-26T19:14:00.001-05:00

Found this little guy yesterday while on the photo shoot. I wore him around on my shirt like a brooch. Laura Beth did not like my little friend. Especially when he sang. LOL!

Photo Shoot for Spring 2011 Meijer's Outdoor Cushions

2010-08-25T18:47:00.000-05:00

And of course we managed to have a little fun inbetween shots:

WA Berry Girls Night

2010-08-24T23:33:00.001-05:00

Enjoyed a girls night at La Fiesta. Was thrilled to have Leslie Allen join Martha, Aimee, Janet and I. Leslie moved back into town last month. We celebrated all of us turning 4o, with the exception of Janet who is still holding her 30 card...until next month, when we meet again. Then it's being retired!

Reese's Birthday

2010-08-23T22:31:00.000-05:00

Today is my niece Reese's 6th birthday. We met at Birmingham's infamous Jim davenport's Pizza Palace in Mountain Brook for supper and celebration.

The kids watch the chefs hand toss the pizza before putting it into the brick oven to fire.

Happy Birthday to my Reesey Cup! I love you!

Someone Got Braces!

2010-08-19T08:25:00.000-05:00

Before getting them on:

After getting them on:

Should be on for 18-24 months...a braces removal photo/new improved smile photo to come then ;)

First day of School

2010-08-12T18:55:00.002-05:00

Everyone is happy with their classes and their teachers.
All is well.....for now. God willing.
Sister Sledge=7th grade
J Smooth= 4th grade
...and of course (not pictured) is Bama who moved back to the University of Alabama last weekend. His second year. Can you believe he wouldn't allow pictures. Hmmm.

Moths

2010-08-10T19:14:00.003-05:00

More interesting specimens on my nightly walks.

The first moth stopped me dead in my tracks. On first glance it looked like it had a sword on its back. I know my son Jack would go nuts so I put him in a big box so he would see when he awoke in the AM.

When I brought the moth inside I noticed the image upside down. It looked like both a cross....and Christ with arms outstretched.

I did some searching on the internet and discovered this moth is called a It’s called a Clymene moth, fairly common in northeastern woodlands. Not in this area! The caterpillar feeds on a variety of plants, including oaks and willows. Adults fly during the day as well as night, and at night, are attracted to lights. With a little more searching I found that Clymene is of Greek origin and means “renowned one.” In Greek mythology, Clymene was the daughter of Oceanus, and the mother of Atlas and Promethus. Why this particular moth is called Clymene, I have no idea. I know there are “Promethea” moths that are black and yellow – so perhaps there is a connection somewhere in either the coloring or the species.

Range -Eastern North America and its Habitat -Deciduous forests and adjacent fields, etc
Unusual moth, certainly around these parts. But so interesting...to me...a reminder of Christ Love!

This is another interesting moth. It was camouflaged on the red brick of my house. But it was the tiny little moving "string" or "hair" on its back that moved as if to call in other bugs closer. Although I do not know if this is the purpose for the hair. I looked and looked for info on this moth. The closest I found was Orgyia antiqua, although the coloring is the same, none mentioned the single hair...and none had such a thick body. In any case, this one is interesting.

Linking to Susan's Outdoor Wednesday at Southern Daydreamer.

Please join me tomorrow at Tales from Bloggeritaville for Thrifty Thursday and MORE!

Ross Bridge

2010-08-08T10:52:00.002-05:00

This past weekend Big Daddy and I took our two youngest kids for one last summer fling (Bama had already moved back to ...Bama). We went to Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa for a little staycation. A little tip, check with your local hotels, friend them on facebook because they publish send out specials. We got a "local summer rate" that ran throughout the summer Thursday-Sunday, our room was $119.00!!! Excuse me, but you cannot stay in a dump in Birmingham for that price hardly. But Ross Bridge Resort? Unheard of...or so one would think. It CAN be done!

Our room was actually one of the best, it overlooked the pool. From the 5th floor wraparound balcony we had a wonderful view of the golfcourse. However, we were hardly in our room. We met our dear friends, the Claridy family (High Mae's), who also scheduled a staycation. We were at the pool and tennis courts from the moment we arrived til we all retired to bed at 10PM when the pool closed.

(Thanks to my friend Courtney "High Mae" who took some of these pics. Thanks for sharing!
Here is a link to Court's post on RB)

Nightwalking

2010-08-05T18:57:00.003-05:00

Since Big Daddy and I began walking last March, we have seen SO MANY critters in the forms of animals and insects. Some insects I have never seen. I wish I had brought my camera those times. But here are some I can identify and were fun to spy in the dark...

'We have seen armidillos galore. Three nightly on our street alone. And an odd one in the parking lot of Publix. Let me say, they have NO FEAR of humans....or cars. Thus their shells along roadsides.

Cute little bunny rabbit by CVS:

Imperial Moth . They are huge and so pretty! Look, it's almost as large as my hand.

Tree Frog on my window. There have been a few actually. I have lights that shine upon my house at night. It attracts flying bugs. And frogs eat bugs.

How cute are frogs....

Secret Garden

2010-08-02T16:59:00.001-05:00

There is a secret garden. Its located in the metropolis of downtown Birmingham, beyond the traffic wizzing by and trains that holler a few blocks away. Sitting next to a busy interstate and landmark factory, this quite garden blooms. You have to poke around to find it. But mother and I did, and found ourselves in a world of great beauty. We discovered paradise beyond the parking lots! Here are some photos from this garden (located at behind a small house that serves as the Birmingham Historical Society).

Brock

2010-08-01T16:47:00.000-05:00

My first born baby is no longer a baby. Gone are the toddler years, the preteen and teenager years too. Today Brock turned twenty. I cannot fathom a more composed and well adjusted young man at this age. I take delight that he seems so self assured, certain...he has set goals for himself and is working hard to achieve those goals. He is a wonderful young man. I couldn't be prouder of.
Happy Birthday Brock. I love you and always will.

The Lucky One

2010-07-31T16:37:00.003-05:00

Friday evening my friends, the Clematis Club, threw me and another member ("Happy Hour") a birthday luau celebration. Its the big number for me. I turn 40 August 4th. I got the most wonderful gifts: jewelry, homemade treats, candles, and a donation made in my name to the Humane Society. They all know me so well. But the real gifts....is the friendships of each of these extraordinary, talented, dedicated women and their beautiful families.I couldn't help but reflect that night as I saw the laughter and the dancing....that I am the Lucky One to have such precious gifts. God is great.

Ps....I guess THIS is how a pirate looks at forty.

Linking to Outdoor Wednesday

Red Moon

2010-07-30T16:32:00.000-05:00

Big Daddy and I have been walking nightly now since March. I am amazed at all we have seen on our walks. Nature, wildlife...the things I find facinating. Friday's red moon was one of those facinating things. It stopped me in my tracks. I stared...and then I got my camera. Isn't it glorious?

Stay Gold Ponyboy

2010-07-29T16:28:00.000-05:00

"Nothing Gold can Stay", the poem by Robert Frost. I think of it when I see a sunrise..or a sunset depending on the colors. It also conjurs up find memories of watching the Outsiders movie over and over again. The scene where Ponyboy recited that poem to Johnny was a great one. I grabbed my "Ponyboy", Jack and he and I took to a perfect spot for watching the sun dip down over the ridge. What a beautiful show!

PIckles

2010-07-28T16:23:00.001-05:00

My friend, Laura Beth knows how I love pickles. She so kindly made me up a jar with a precious little tag and gave them to me. She said they were "prepared sweet and a lil spicy...like her friend." Thank you LB! They were delicious...tasted like Grandma Bratina's That's a HUGE compliment. Must get the recipe!

Buy one Get One Special

2010-07-27T16:20:00.000-05:00

Simple Life

2010-07-26T16:16:00.000-05:00

I had a portrait session with the Stegall family. I wanted to photograph them and have it appear like it were a time set in the 40's. Simple times.

Wedding Day

2010-07-25T16:11:00.000-05:00

My friend Charnita and I teamed up to photograph the wedding of Andrea and Lamar. Here are some of my favorite pictures that I took from the night:

Pepper Place

2010-07-24T17:59:00.005-05:00

Went to Pepper Place today. What? Not familiar with Pepper Place? It consist of several blocks where the old Dr. Pepper building is in the Lakeview District of downtown Birmingham. Today the area consist of shops and restaurants and during the spring into early fall, every Saturday there is a wonderful farmers market where farmers drive to sell the fruits of their labors. There you can find home grown vegetables and flowers, bake breads and cookies, cakes and pies,local bee products. In addition to farmers, bakers and beekeepers you can enjoy local musicians on two stages while sipping a fresh cup of coffee or enjoying a light breakfast. There is a cooking demonstration at 9:00 a.m. every Saturday morning by Birmingham's finest chefs. And that's just the market... While you're there, don't forget to check out the shops that have made Pepper Place known as the city's premier design center.

Pepper Place Address:
2901 2nd Ave S
Birmingham, AL 35233
Get directions: To here - From here

Please join me at Tales from Bloggeritaville in my Open House Segments.
And for Thursday's Thrifty Thursday!
Linking to Outdoor Wednesday.

Come with me as I tour the Saturday Farmers Market.....

Session

2010-07-22T16:09:00.002-05:00

I had a portrait session scheduled. The kids came with me, which was a first. I shot in a park so they enjoyed the playground with I focused on my clients. Before the family arrived, I shot a couple (literally) warm up shots of Elaina and Jack, checking lighting. I loved how these turned out of the two of them. Now if I can convince Brock to join in my family photo....

I have mentioned before that when we go walking or hiking, I collect heart shaped rocks. The little girl of the family I photographed got out of her car and immediately found this one. I loved this picture!

Camp Dassau-Swim Day

2010-07-21T10:01:00.000-05:00

Nasty Habits

2010-07-20T19:51:00.001-05:00

I grew concerned when I saw my shih-tsu, Jeffery, walking through the house with this in his mouth.

Do you think there is a patch for rawhide?
And I am a bit concerned of withdrawals. It could get ugly. He really enjoys his nightly chew.

PS- I am going to get one thing taken care of for sure. He is in need of a haircut. BAD.

Trip into Homewood

2010-07-19T18:51:00.001-05:00

Took a quick trip into Homewood today.
Ate at Saw BBQ (Edgewood). My lunch date (my mother) deemed it "the best BBQ in the Ham". That says alot. I LOVEd the sauce. Spicy, vingary-delicious! And if the BBQ wasn't worth the trip alone...one must try the marinated slaw and cucumbers!

I have long adored this little house in Homewood. I make a point to drive by and see how it might be decorated. It's owner decorates seasonally. I'm quite certain it must be Mary Englebright herself that dwells under that roof.

By days end, we noticed a spider in the key hole of the door of the car. My mother named him "Theodoor".

Petals from the Past

2010-07-18T11:04:00.003-05:00

One cannot fight a craving. Even if it comes in temperatures that rival that of hell itself. "High Mae" and I wanted blueberries, so we loaded up and headed to Petals from the Past and picked and ate, and picked some more. I beleive we sweat as much as we ate and picked. Quite certain. We picked enough for a good cobbler and some to freeze. Before leaving we headed to the 75% off table, where HM loaded up on some fabulous Halloween dishes for her party in October. Then we hit the $1 trailer for gallon plants that retailed between $7-$10 dollars each. We purchased 18 plants for 18 bucks in the likes of butterfly bushes, daises, lantana, basil, sage, etc.
Now THAT is heavenly!
And speaking fo heavenly, Check out Petals from the Past. Owner and curator, Jason Powell keeps the gardens at Petals just divine!

I love this sunflower shot...see the bee flying away for another flower? (click for the larger version)

Tagging for Outdoor Wednesday

And I invite you to join me today and all this week in Bloggeritaville for my open house tour.
And tomorrow for Thrifty Thursday! Link will be posted Wednesday evening.

Armadillo

2010-07-17T18:54:00.000-05:00

Big Daddy and I have taken up walking everynight. We prefer to go late, because we are a bit of night owls. And the humidity seems to subside come midnight. We crossed paths with this guy tonight as we walked.

He paid us no mind, in fact he followed us a bit down the street before he found a good patch of grass in a neighbors yard to investigate.

Big Daddy's 40th!

2010-07-16T20:40:00.001-05:00

I hosted a birthday celebration for Big Daddy and his twin brother Tony at our home. It came as a big surprise to big daddy. I cannot tell you how happy it made me to see these wonderful faces from his past and present in our home.
You can tell he was quite happy.
Mission accomplished.

Girls Night at the Pool

2010-07-14T11:37:00.000-05:00

For our girls night, we all decided we needed some water therapy. Momma Joy's Pool was our rx. We each brought something yummy to eat and enjoyed a dip in the pool. I love summer!

Friends

2010-07-13T11:42:00.002-05:00

My daughter had one of her precious friends spend the night. All they wanted to do was for me to do a "photo shoot" of them. I was all to happy to oblige.

Country Drive

2010-07-10T12:45:00.001-05:00

Today was a perfect day for a drive in the country.
Music up, windows down...camera in hand.
I love the open road....and seeing where it may take me!

Rock Band

2010-07-09T12:48:00.000-05:00

Big Daddy Turns 40

2010-07-08T11:20:00.000-05:00

For Tom's birthday, our son Brock wanted to do something special for him, so he made him supper.
On the menu: Grilled chicken (first marinated in a ginger sauce, then basted in a seperate basting sauc, and Brock created a dipping sauce as well), field peas, rosemary and herb roasted new potatoes, garlic bread(Brock made garlic butter with fresh herbs and fresh garlic). It was wonderful!

Sunset

2010-07-07T20:27:00.000-05:00

Uncle Jack

2010-07-05T12:51:00.000-05:00

Today we buried my great Uncle Jack. It was a wonderful celebration of his life and I was proud to be a part.
For more on my Uncle Jack, visit Tales from Bloggeritaville.

Canyon Mouth Park

2010-07-03T12:55:00.000-05:00

Summertime picnics....they bring family and friends together. And some amazing food.
We celebrated July 4th on the 3rd and headed to Canyon Mouth Park where we had a blast in the swimming hole....like days of yesteryear. For more on our adventures visit, Tales from Bloggeritville.

Be advised, we (in my group/family) were all smarter than this tree diver, who broke his collerbone in this dive. I consider him lucky. We kept it at the rope swing and were certain to to let go in deep waters.

On Top of Spaghetti

2010-07-01T12:59:00.000-05:00

We had supper tonight with our precious friends, the Sanchez'es. We ate at Helena's new restuarant, Lucia's. Jack ordered and was happy with the spaghetti. The meatballs were huge....as you can see in the photos, he is measuring up it's size before diving in.

It's a Wrap!

2010-06-29T14:32:00.003-05:00

I finished my the shoot for Plantation Patterns.
It's the outdoor furniture company that I was shooting some photography for their catalog.

I took the final pictures early this morning. The setting was gorgeous. A house, which was formerly a barn, in the rural area of Helena on the edge of Bibb county. I will have more on the barn and a tour on Tales from Bloggeritaville.
I thought I would share the final picture from our shoot today. What a peaceful scene.
I can imagine having this view to enjoy on a daily basis!

Icebox

2010-06-28T16:37:00.001-05:00

On a HOT day, such as this one.....there isn't much that is more refreshing that a cold cola from an icebox.

The Georgia Aquarium

2010-06-27T16:27:00.000-05:00

I won a trip to the Georgia Aquarium. We went on Sunday by charter bus. We were fed breakfast and watched the new Alice in Wonderland movie on the way. It was good. When we arrived at the aquarium we were given a Behind the Scenes Tour. It was very informative and enjoyable. Then we had a couple free hours to explore ourselves. We had a nice time.
Jack's favorite part...the movie. Go figure.

Vegetable Market

2010-06-26T16:34:00.000-05:00

Oil...at what cost?

2010-06-25T21:21:00.001-05:00

I won't lie, I cried like a baby as I captured these photographs (along with close to a hundred others).
As a lover of both the ocean and of animals and nature, I am physically sick and disgusted at what has become of God's creations. I can hardly speak of it. But I made an attempt to at Tales from Bloggeritaville.
But I can also share what I have seen with my own eyes....and through the lens of my camera.
This is my beach, my home. It's where I played as a child.
It is now my children's playground. Or it was.
It was fond memories for so many, now polluted...raped.
And this....this is why I cry....a gut wrenching cry.......

Over or Under Dressed?

2010-06-24T21:13:00.000-05:00

Stark Contrast: Workers in protective suits for oil cleanup in the gulf drive past young surfers playing in the water.
One question, "Where is momma?"

Water Spout?

2010-06-23T21:08:00.000-05:00

Mother and I watched from our balcony as a funnel cloud quickly began to form and then disapate almost as quickly.
Interesting! But I've always been a "weather girl".
Dear Rosemary Lucus, I still love you.

Gift Horse with Friends

2010-06-22T21:06:00.001-05:00

I enjoyed meeting up with fellow bloggers, Jennifer, Dust Bunny Hostage and Jessica of Thoughts of a Bama Belle. We met at the Gift Horse Restaurant in Foley. It was delicious!!!! Good food, great company!

Hermit Crab

2010-06-21T23:05:00.001-05:00

Mother Natures Show

2010-06-21T01:18:00.004-05:00

It's 1:20 AM. I am sitting outside on the balcony with mother. We are in Orange Beach, Al watching heat lightening dance across the gulf waters.

Pollinated ;)

2010-06-19T16:03:00.002-05:00

Bumble Bee on a Coneflower

Wedding in the Garden

2010-06-18T11:27:00.001-05:00

Big Daddy and I were guest at his boss' daughter's wedding. She was married in Helena at Magnolia Manor.
I took these photographs from my seat.

The Future's so Bright...You Gotta Have Shade!

2010-06-17T10:31:00.000-05:00

Another day of shooting for the catalog......

These were shot at Buck Creek in Helena.

"Cushy" Job

2010-06-16T22:16:00.002-05:00

Today was the first day of shooting a magazine for Meadow Craft Outdoor Furinture. Today we shot cushions, gorgeous colorful cushions.
And it was H.O.T.
I don't think I have ever sweat as much as I did today.

After the Rain

2010-06-15T23:31:00.001-05:00

Isn't this thunderhead beautiful? It came after a storm, just before sunset.
Rosemary Beach, Fl

Mary Mary, Quite Contrary.....

2010-06-14T15:30:00.003-05:00

It's a whopping 96 degrees today, but somehow I managed to find myself outside in the sweltering heat at Meyer's Plants. The beautiful colors drew me in. I purchased some "salsa red" lantana and a white lantana. DO you think that the Alabama baseball game infulenced me? hmmm.
I love Meyer's, its one of my most favorite nurseries. You can see why....

Summer Tomatoes

2010-06-13T17:53:00.001-05:00

Tomatoes from the garden. These went fast! The kids love to pick them, slice them and add S&P and a light drizzle of Italian dressing. But cherry tomatoes go straight from vine into their mouths!

Hobie

2010-06-12T16:15:00.002-05:00

A Hobie Cat is a small sailing catamaran manufactured by the Hobie Cat Company

Beautiful Beach

2010-06-11T16:13:00.000-05:00

Lazy Dayz

2010-06-10T16:11:00.000-05:00

Inlet Beach, Florida

Beachin' It

2010-06-09T16:10:00.000-05:00

Deciding where to set up camp for a day on the beach....

Sit a Spell

2010-06-08T16:08:00.001-05:00

One of the best views also shares the best seat.....Come, sit a spell, won't you?

Shady

2010-06-07T16:05:00.000-05:00

Rosemary beach, Florida

Triple Stack

2010-06-06T08:24:00.000-05:00

Weathered Beach Chair

2010-06-05T08:22:00.001-05:00

Inspired by Nature

2010-06-02T18:10:00.001-05:00

Inspired by nature and summertime... painted Sister Sledge's fingers and toes like strawberries and watermelon's!

Announcing the Senator....

2010-06-01T18:21:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to State Senator Cam Ward and his family! My sincere appreciation to the Ward's for inviting me to photograph their Election Night at Vinzini Winery in Calera. What a beautiful place! It was a wonderful, festive evening.

Road Trip

2010-05-30T18:24:00.000-05:00

My parents just returned from a road trip. They went to Lake Erie, Lake Ontario, Youngstown NY and Niagra Falls/Canada among other stops. My mother asked me to edit her pictures, these were so beautiful....like postcards, thought I would share!

Canoeing

2010-05-29T09:54:00.004-05:00

We had family in town this weekend, Big Daddy's Aunt Carol and Uncle Jim as well as Big Daddy's twin brother and his family. We hosted lunch on Saturday and then went canoeing and kayaking down Buck Creek and into the Cahaba in Helena. It was a five mile trip, it took us about three hours, for we made stops along the way. One of the favorite stops was a rope swing the kids enjoyed. I was in complete awe of the beauty less than 2-3 miles from my home. I have lived in Helena for 11 years and in the area for 38 and was ashamed that I had not done the trip sooner. But Big Daddy and I plan to make up for lost time, we have already been looking at kayaks so we can do this much more often.

Read more about our canoeing adventure at Tales from Bloggeritaville by clicking here for the link

Early Readers

2010-05-28T09:44:00.001-05:00

My nephew Sam,(age 4) on the right, loved having my son "J. Smooth" (9 years) read to him. Sam kept bringing Smooth books for him to read aloud, all of the books, Dr. Seuss. Glad he is so interested.

Climbing Roses

2010-05-26T15:41:00.002-05:00

Homewood Alabama

Blooming Boots

2010-05-25T17:07:00.001-05:00

My neices rainboots (they used to belong to my daughter) blooms with pink petunias. Love my sister in laws idea for reusing and repurposing.

This Old House

2010-05-24T15:45:00.001-05:00

They just dont make homes with the charm of yesteryear. Perhaps is does come with age....but I also think it's in the architexture and in the details that older homes just seem to have. This old house is located in Hapersville and is now home to a consignment business called, "Deal Pickles".

Aja

2010-05-23T23:19:00.001-05:00

Baby in tutu. What could be cuter? Aja was like an old pro during her photography shoot today. Thx to the Matthews Family for sharing & trusting her to me.

WildFlower Wax

2010-05-21T15:54:00.004-05:00

My friends and I had a GNO last night at Wildflower Wax, where we create, poured and created the scent of our own candles. It was such a fun evening!

Ross Bridge

2010-05-20T17:13:00.000-05:00

Friendly Support

2010-05-19T21:08:00.001-05:00

My friend, Deborah opened a retail shop called Harvest Moon. It's a "flea market" type shop.
Janet and I went to lend our support and paused long enough to mark the occassion.

Jasmine in my Mind

2010-05-18T17:03:00.000-05:00

"Summer Breeze makes me feel fine, blowing through the jasmine in my mind."
I am quite certain that nothing smells as heavenly as jasmine. This jasmine belongs to my mother. She has it trained to grown over the nook to her door. I think it looks like a fairy tale cottage.

Chess

2010-05-17T21:05:00.000-05:00

Many, many years ago Tom's grandmother and grandfather made this chess set.
Grandpa constructed the chess box like a suitcase, inside it holds the figures. Grandma made and painted the figurines.

When my husband was a boy, he learned to play chess on that set. Today he teaches his son.

And one day it is my hope, Jack will do the same.

Family Day

2010-05-16T20:50:00.000-05:00

We spent a family day today. We ate breakfast at Cracker Barrel where the kids enjoyed a game of checkers, afterwards we went for a walk followed by smoothies at our local coffee shop, La Reunion. We lingered for a while and played cards.

A Night with Rock Candy

2010-05-15T20:52:00.006-05:00

I spent a fabulous, fun evening enjoying one of my favorite bands, Rock Candy.

It was a night of being with good friends enjoying good music.

Buttercups at Bearden

2010-05-14T21:32:00.000-05:00

Buttercups along the fenceline of Bearden Farm.

Farm Girl??

2010-05-13T21:31:00.001-05:00