What's in MY make-up bag?

Apparently I'm a little low on the blogging ideas, so, for lack of a better topic, we're going to talk about the make-up products I'm currently loving and using!

I've never really been one to wear a lot of make-up.  I tried, really hard (and failed miserably I might add) in high school, but it didn't last long.  When I DO wear make-up, I tend to pay more attention to my eyes, because, well, I'm not really sure why.  It's just what I do.

So, I guess now is as good a time as any to jump into it.  Here we go!!

 I just started using this product, and I've absolutely fallen in love with it.  It's made by Nourish Organic, and it's their Argan + Rosewater Face Lotion.  100% organic too! I actually got a small sample size of this product in my very first Birchbox and was really hesitant about using it for a long time.  My face tends to be on the oily side, all on it's own, and helping it out with lotion isn't typically a good idea.  I'm so glad I finally tried it.  It literally only takes less than a dime-sized dab to cover my whole face, and there's absolutely ZERO heaviness to it at all! It leaves my face smooth, fresh, and clean! Perfect for the upcoming make-up application! I mentioned that I got this in my first Birchbox - I'll explain a bit more about them and their service in a bit. 

Primer.  This is another product that I was really hesitant on using.  Maybe skeptical is the more appropriate word.  I mean, you prime your walls before you paint, but your eyelids? Really? I wasn't buying it. Until I tried it. Remember how I said that my face tends to be oily? Before I started using primer, my eyeshadow would clump badly.  By the end of the day, I'd looked like I'd had my eyeshadow applied by a 5-year-old.  Seriously.  That it now a thing of the past!  Primer is a product that you can use on the sly too! No one can see it, so they won't know you're using it, and like I said before, it keeps everything where it should be! I'm currently using Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion (because it came with my eyeshadow. I'm not saying that this is the best or the only primer you should ever use, it just so happens to be what I'm using now. I'm actually quite certain that there's a better one out there, I've just not found it yet.

Foundation is kind of a biggie.  I used to use liquid foundation like my life depended on it. Yes. I was THAT girl. The one that didn't realize she was not only wearing way too much foundation, but also that I hadn't quite mastered the technique of blending properly. Hot mess! Then there was the little issue of the horrible smell that comes along with using liquid foundation.  You know what I'm talking about. Then I discovered Bare Minerals Foundation. It virtually eliminated the blending issue, and the smell (bonus Jonas!), and because it blends so well with my skin, I don't need a lot of it. I follow up with the Bare Minerals Mineral Veil, to just set the foundation, and leave my face with that little bit of shine. Because it's mineral make-up, it also doesn't have that heaviness, and that is really important to me - especially as my skin is aging.

I'd like to say that I know how to be dramatic with my eyeliner, but that would be an outright lie. I'd like to be though. If I were, this would be the perfect eyeliner to use. Almay Intense I-Color Liquid Eyeliner is probably the best liquid eyeliner I've ever used. The applicator is very easy to hold, and doesn't get overloaded with too much product. It allows me to get REALLY close to my lash line, so it's not too obvious that I'm using eyeliner at all. It goes on smooth, and stays on all day. I'm not sure if that's because it's just über great eyeliner, or, if the primer plays a part. Whatever the reason, it's great. My go-to color is Black Pearl, which is probably boring, but I'm not a big fan of tinted eyeliner. I'm not saying it's not great for some, it's just not for me. Call me plain, call me boring, I don't mind.

I think this is my most favorite make-up purchase, probably ever. It also happens to be the most expensive make-up purchase, but totally worth it. Naked by Urban Decay is seriously my favorite.  When I first started using this product, I was very much a fan of Creep. I've ventured a little bit, and I stress a little bit, and have started using Gunmetal and Virgin.  I really like the effect those two colors give when used together. If I'm going for a more subtle approach Sidecar, Smog, and Darkhorse might make an appearance. Regardless of what colors you choose, you're going to be satisfied with it. There's no way you can't be. I'm anxious to get the Naked 2, Naked 2Basics, and Naked 3. You can NEVER be too Naked!

This is the newest and probably the most outrageous item in my make-up collection. I have never been a huge fan of mascara. I have eye allergies, and tend to rub my eyes. A lot. Eye rubbing + mascara = spending the day looking like a raccoon. Not a good look for me. I'm not saying that this is a magic product that is immune to the effects of eye rubbing, but, I'm a LOT more conscious of the fact that it's there, because it actually feels like I have eyelashes! Younique 3D Fiber Lash Mascara is amazing! If you've not heard of it before, seriously check it out! It doesn't have 3D in it's name for nothing!

I'm a gloss girl. I've never really been one to use a lipstick, and I definitely don't use the color in the picture over there, but am really loving this gloss. Victoria Secret Sparkle Gloss in Just Brilliant is the color I'm in love with. It's light, and like it says in it's name, it sparkles! My favorite color is glitter, so it's perfect for me! It has a fruity taste too! There's an extremely light color to it, but it's more just an enhancer of your natural lip color. With the exception of the dark eyeshadow colors, I'm a big fan of the natural make-up look. That makes this the perfect gloss. Seriously.

There you have it! That's what's in my make-up bag. You can now go on with your life, and lose the anxiety I know you must have been experiencing. (wink, wink) 

Going back to the beginning of this blog, I mentioned that I got a sample product in my very first Birchbox. What is Birchbox? I had the same question. With Birchbox, you get to try a product before you buy it! It's really quite genus. You fill out a short survey, letting them know your beauty preferences, pay your monthly subscription fee of $10, and get a box in the mail. Every single month. There's NO obligation, and you can't lose. Sure, sometimes there are things in the box that you won't use, or that you don't like, but sometimes, you hit the goldmine! Sometimes, instead of sample size products, there are FULL size products - talk about AWESOME! I didn't keep my Birchbox subscription for long, but I'm really glad I had for those few months. There are a few other services very similar to Birchbox, if you're interested in trying them out. With Ipsy, you sign up and subscribe to their Glam Bag (which is also a $10 a month fee) and then each month you get an actual bag filled with 4-5 products that have been personalized to your preferences! With Ipsy you can choose a monthly subscription, or, if you know you're going to commit for a year, chose the year long subscription.What could be more convenient? Both options are great, and fun ways to try the newest products, without having to break in the bank in the process. 

If you're a bit more high maintenance, and there's absolutely NOTHING wrong with that, and have a taste for a more high-end, luxury type product, you might be interested in trying GLOSSYBOX. It's honestly the same concept as the two options I've already discussed, only, GLOSSYBOX offers higher end products (at a higher end price tag) for $25 each month. I don't know if I'm THAT much of a make-up snob, but, never say never. 

I just realized.  I didn't stop at the number 5 with this list! I've broken the cycle! Yay me! 

I want to know what's in YOUR make-up bag and:

1. Have you tried / or are you currently using any of the same products I am?
2. What did you / or do you think of them?
3. Is there a GREAT product you can't live without that I'm currently NOT using? If so, what is it, and where can I get it?

I can't wait to hear from you!

Until Next Time, 

 
 

Sappy Saturday

I'm going out on a limb with this one. Just roll with it.

In June, I had the honor of standing as witness to two of my dearest friends, as they stood in front of God, and their friends and family, and became man & wife.

Now I've been in weddings before, aside from my own, but I've never had the honor of being the Maid (or Matron) of Honor.  Until this wedding.  I wave of emotion that came over me when I was asked (I literally cried) was overwhelming to say the least, but at the same time it was humbling.

This woman, my friend, had only been my friend for a few short years, but that didn't seem to matter. She wanted ME to be the one to stand by her side, as she vowed to love this man for the rest of her life.

Then it hit me.  Maid (or Matron) of Honor comes with a LOT of responsibility.  We've all seen those shows, you know the ones, that depict the bride out to be nothing short of a monster when things don't go her way.  Not only was I thinking about all the responsibility, but then I also remembered that the Maid (or Matron) of Honor, along with the Best Man, has to give a speech.

Oh.

My.

Gosh.

Talk about nervous.  I wanted to make sure that I not only captured the relationship that the bride and I had, but I also wanted to capture my excitement, love, and sincere good will I had for her. Remember, I said that we hadn't known each other very long, so I wasn't going to be able to pull a lot of old memories, inside jokes, and meaningful moments from our past.  I had to come up with something, and it had to be EPIC.  After all, this was her BIG day, and I wanted my words to have an impact on her, and to be something she'd remember vividly about her day.

This wedding, though not a true 'destination' wedding, it kind of was just the same.  It was on the beach, about an hour or so away from our home town.  A lot of the bride and groom's family was coming from out of state to attend, and even the local guests had to travel a little bit. I tell you this, because, I almost ruined it.  Completely.

The morning of the wedding, I left my house to make the drive to the venue, a little bit nervous about the upcoming ceremony and giving my speech at the reception - but I was able to keep my nerves in check for the most part.

When it was my turn to get my hair done, I asked my Sister-In-Law if she'd allow me to give my speech to her, you know, to make sure it sounded OK.  We're about 2 hours until ceremony time, I'm sitting in the chair with a hot iron in my hair, and I suddenly realize that my speech, is an hour away. Sitting on my kitchen table.

CRAP! Are you freaking KIDDING me?!  What am I going to do now?

Obviously I have to write another one, but I've convinced myself that there is NO way it's going to be as good as the one I had originally written. My Sister-In-Law calmed me down, and told me to just follow my heart.  Start writing, and let my feelings come out. I, somewhat reluctantly, followed her advice, because quite frankly I didn't have any other choice. To be honest, I was really surprised at how easily the words came, and to be honest, I think it was WAY better than the original. Tell me what you think?

Before I start, I would like to say, that Sasha you look absolutely beautiful, and Mike, you don't look half bad yourself.  For those of you that don't know me, my name is Amanda, and for those of you that do know me, you are truly blessed. 

When Sasha first asked me to be her Maid of Honor, I felt delighted but as the big day approached, I knew I'd have to give a speech.  Being the shy type that I am, I was trying to think of a way to get out of it, but have any of you actually tried to say no to Sasha? When I knew I couldn't get out of this, I decided to buckle down and think of something to say. 

Some would say, when a man holds a woman's hand before marriage it's love.  After marriage, it's self-defense.  Others say that before marriage a man will lie awake thinking about something that you've said. After marriage, he will fall asleep before you've finished saying it. With that being said, I can tell you from experience that marriage truly is the only battle worth fighting for. 

Now, Mike.  I have some advice for you. Whenever you're wrong, admit it. Whenever you're right, just be quiet. It will be better for you in the long run. The best way to remember your anniversary is to forget it just once, so don't do it. Road maps and GPS are ALWAYS good things, so don't be afraid to use them. Never forget the most important sayings 'You're right Dear' and 'Okay, buy it.'. Last but not least, never be afraid that Sasha will leave you. She has spent YEARS training you, and she's not going to give that up lightly. 

Sasha and I may not have been childhood friends; we never played dress up together, or imagined what our weddings would be like as little girls. We didn't go to school together and never braided each other's hair .. we don't have any memories to speak of before a few years ago, but none of that matters because I feel like I've known her my whole life. We know more about each other than we probably care to, and that's because we can share anything without passing judgement. We've laughed together and we've cried together. We have inside jokes that only we find funny.  Personally, I think we're hysterical, but that's why we're friends, because I don't think that anyone else does. 

Today is a celebration of not only where they are now, but the road that had brought them here. They have built the beginnings of a beautiful life together, and I can't wait to see what their future holds. 

To Sasha & Mike - I wish you nothing but love and happiness for the rest of your lives, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for allowing me to be a part of your special day. 

Queue the hugs, and the tears.  I think it worked.  Not to shabby (if I do say so myself) for having to write a completely new one.

Until Next Time ..

Friday Favorites

Apparently I'm in a list making mood.  The last few blog posts have been lists of my favorite movies and television shows.  I'm going to attempt to make a list of my favorite songs  albums.  I think that might be a bit easier.

This one might take a bit more work, and an extreme amount of patience on my part, since I absolutely LOVE music, but I'm going to give it a go, and see what I come up with.  You definitely might not agree with some of these, and these are in NO way, shape, or form my ONLY favorites. Think of these more like, my comfortable fall-backs.

There's never a bad time for Madonna.  She's iconic, as is her music. La Isla Bonita, Like A Virgin, Material Girl .. need I go on? Anybody who is anybody has heard at least ONE Madonna song in their life, even if you didn't know (and if you didn't how could you not?!) it was Madonna.  It's definitely a classic.  One that will be around forever.  Check it out on iTunes or Amazon!

Don't judge me, but I LOVE *NSYNC.  I have (yes, I still have) every single album.  I'm trying to decide which one is my favorite - but it's SO hard!  I guess I'm kind of breaking the rules on this one. But hey, since I made the rules for this list, I'm allowed to break them.  Right?  Of course, right. Of course I love the ballads, cause I'm a girl, and I believe they're singing these songs directly to me, but I also like the upbeat songs too.  I don't think they could sing anything I WOULDN'T like.  I guess this means I'm an *NSYNC junkie, which I'm completely fine with.

This album, changed me.  I remember when I got it, and first heard the song 'I Want Your Sex'.  I had NO idea what the song was about, and I didn't care.  All I knew was that I loved it.  George Michael was my everything for a very long time.  I had 'Faith' and I would have been completely fine with him being my 'Father Figure'.  Looking back, I was probably all of 7 or 8 years old when this album came out, and I can understand now (that I'm a mother of girls) why my mother hated me listening to it, and singing along.  Loudly.  In my defense, it's just music, and music is universal.

I was going through a phase when this album came out.  It was the only thing I listened to for about 6 months.  Back to back.  Over and over.  In my car, in my bedroom radio, if I had a way to play it, it was playing.  I fully admit to overplaying it, and ruining it for those that had to live with me, but I don't regret it.  It spoke to me.  My favorite track on the album was 'Best I Ever Had (Grey Sky Morning)', and 'Everything You Want' held a very close second.  I honestly can't say enough good things about this album.  I think I just might fire it up on iTunes right now!

The first is always the best.  Most definitely the case with Mariah Carey's albums.  Her first is my favorite.  Granted, her second, and third are also favorites, but there's something about the first one.  'Someday', 'I Don't Wanna Cry', and 'Love Takes Time' .. LOVE!! Her style changed a few years down the road, and I kind of lost interest, but this album will always be one that I love.



There I go again, stopping with 5.  It's not even an even number, but somehow, it just feels right. OK. Now it's your turn.  Here's what I want you to do ..

• Tell me what you think about my picks
• Tell me your favorite albums are
• Let me know what you think I should listen to, that I might not be. 

Until Next Time .. 

The Wonder of Television

It is a wonder, isn't it?

I don't know about you, but I love to watch T.V.  Sometimes, I get a little hooked.  I've said before that I'm a huge fan of The Food Network, and all the yummy-ness that it has to offer.  Pretty much any time of the day too.  But today, we're going to talk about what my current favorite television shows are. Don't judge me.

Ready?  Here we go (in no particular order)

Breaking Bad.  I can NOT say enough about this show. It captivated me from the VERY beginning, and held me close until the very end.  The writing, the acting, the story. Absolutely EVERY thing about this show was, and continues to be amazing.  If you haven't watched it yet, what's wrong with you?  Just kidding (sort of), but you should.  You can catch it on Netflix from beginning to end.  Seriously.  Check. It. Out.  You will NOT be sorry.

True Blood. Now, I normally don't consider myself to be into the 'fantasy' type shows, but this one I loved. It's twisted, and vulgar, and sexy, and vulgar, and sometimes VERY bloody-but so intriguing.  I'm not a huge fan of Anna Paquin and her portrayal of Sookie (and her even worse Louisiana accent) but for all the other eye-candy, I can look past the flaws.  Jason, Eric, Alcide - need I continue?  I was über disappointed with the Series Finale, the entire final season for that matter, but the rest of the series is definitely worth watching,

Pretty Little Liars.  This is my newest obsession.  I've just recently (like in the last 2 weeks) started watching this show on Netflix, and from the very first episode, I was hooked.  If you've seen it, you understand.  Love, lies, betrayal, scheming - normal behavior for the high school crowd.  Don't forget about 'A'.  She (or maybe it's 'they') really knows how to mess with a girl!  Spencer, Hanna, Emily, and Aria have really been put through the wringer, and I have a feeling, it's only just begun.

Grey's Anatomy.  This is another one that I've been in love with from the very beginning.  Never missed an episode.  I'm still kind of angry that Dr. Yang left, and I'm even still kind of bitter that George died. If I had to chose a favorite character, I'd probably have to say it was Alex.  There are so many sides to him, and what he stands for.  He might be a little (ok, a LOT) rough around the edges, but, his heart is typically in the right place .. eventually.  Definitely worth watching.  You can also catch this one on Netflix.  (I'm sensing a pattern here)

Deadliest Catch. I'm really not a fan of reality TV, but it's really hard to find something that's NOT a reality show anymore.  This one though, I don't know what it is about it, but I love it.  My favorite, Keith Colburn, who is the Captain of F/V Wizard, keeps me coming back for more. He's kind of hard to swallow for most, but there's just something about him that's so familiar - I can't help but be drawn into it.  I'm also a big fan of Josh Harris and F/V Cornelia Marie.  You'll find this one on Discovery Channel

The number 5, apparently, is my magic number.  I definitely have more favorites (even though I promise I'm not a couch potato) but this seems like a good start.

You know the drill.  Now it's your turn.  Leave me a comment, and let me know if you

• Have watched / currently watch any of the above
• What your thoughts are on my favorites
• Have any reccomendations on shows I'm NOT watching that I should be. 

I can't wait to see your suggestions! 

Until Next Time 

Friday Favorites

I don't know if this will be something that I do weekly from now on, but it sounded like a good idea for today.

Let's make it a game!!  I'll tell you some of my favorite things today .. and then you tell me yours! Deal??

Let's start with movies.  Ready?  GO!  (In no specific order .... )

Cause who DOESN'T love Ferris Bueller?  There's something about this movie that sucks me in EVERY single time I watch it.  And trust me, I've seen it QUITE a few times.  The most favorite scene I have is when Ferris, Cameron, and Sloan are in the art museum.  I love that part.  Not sure why, but I do. Another favorite scene, is when Jeannie kicks the snot out of Principal Rooney when he broke into their house.  Hahaha!!  I laugh out loud every time!!

What is there to say about 'Gone With The Wind'?  It's iconic.  I can remember watching this movie as a child, and wanting so badly to be Scarlett O'Hara.  I envied her life so much.  Remember the first time I saw this movie I was probably 8 years old.  The older I got, and the more times I watched the movie, I realized just how sad the life of Ms. O'Hara really was.  The things that she went through her whole life chasing after, meant nothing.  And she realized that, much too later for that to make a difference to her.  The loss that she experiences throughout the film is whole, and tragic.  If it's not one that you've seen, I highly recommend it.

Marty McFly, pardon me while I swoon.  I grew up determined that I was going to be Mrs. Marty McFly.  I didn't realize (for a long time actually) that this was only a movie.  That it wasn't real.  I was SO super excited when the trilogy was released on DVD!  I can watch them any time I want to!!  (And, I do!)

OK.  I admit it. I'm a 'tad' bit obsessed with this movie.  It is, and always will be one of my absolute favorite movies. When I was a kid, I could literally watch it on loop.  Over, and over, and over .. you get the picture.   About 6 months ago, my family and I actually went to Astoria.  Where the movie is based.  We saw Mikey & Brand's house, Data's house, we saw the Jail that the Fratelli's break out of at the beginning.  It was SO much fun for me. I think my littles even enjoyed it!  I have some amazing pictures to remember it by, and I look at them often.

Last, but certainly not least, we have Holly Golightly.  I just love her.  Another one that I wanted to be.  The way that she tackles life, is right in her name.  Nothing is too serious.  Mickey Rooney's character of Mr. Yunioshi is absolutely hilarious.  And I fell in love with Paul Varjak as much as Holly did.  It's iconic.  It's Audrey Hepburn for goodness sake.







So that's 5 of my favorites.  I don't know if I'd say these are my TOP 5 favorite movies, but they're definitely 5 of my favorites.  I was realizing as I was putting the pictures together, that ALL of these movies are more than 20 years old.  I think that speaks volumes about Hollywood today.  Granted I'm not a movie critic, but I watch a LOT of movies.  Nothing from the last 5, or even 10 years made my list.

I'm curious to know what some of your favorites are.  Share away!!

Until Next Time ..

Guilty Pleasures

We've all got them right?  I thought it might be fun to share a few of mine with you.  Then you can share a few of yours with me.  See how this works??

Quid Pro Quo, Clarice .. 

Just kidding.  Let do this.

1.  The Food Network.  I'm obsessed.  Guy, Rachel, Bobby, Giada, Ina .. shall I go on?  I mean what is there NOT to love about a channel devoted to the glory of food?  I got started with 30 Minute Meals, because as a new mother, I desperately needed quick and easy meals that would be satisfying at the same time.  It was a match made in Heaven, that quickly (and probably rather disgustingly) blossomed into a full blown love affair with the entire network.  One of my favorite shows now is The Pioneer Woman (that's a link to her personal site, not within Food Network).  I love her recipes and just her general take on life.  She's so carefree, and she has the coolest kitchen appliances.  I might be a little bit jealous (OK, who am I kidding.  I'm a LOT a bit jealous).

2. Facebook, because who doesn't have a profile?  Even my grandmother does.  Everyone is doing it. It's a great way to keep in touch with family members and friends that might live far away from you. You can easily chat (either text, or video), share pictures, and even play games with these friends and family members.  Which kind of leads me to my guilty pleasure # 3.

3. Candy Crush.  I'm almost embarrassed to say that I play this, especially as much as I do, but, I'm hooked.  If you haven't played it yet, take my advice.  Don't start.  You'll get sucked into the sweet dimension, and the candy will take hold of your soul .. OK.  Maybe I'm exaggerating just a little bit, but it's really close to the truth.

4. Netflix.  To whomever invented Netflix .. I applaud you.  Or, maybe I should punch you in the throat.  Because of you, I've spent countless hours in front of my television set, Breaking Bad and getting to know Jesse Pinkman and Walter White.  I've been Charmed, a few times over might I add by the Halliwell Sisters 3, and have most recently started being Lied to by Spencer, Hanna, Emily, and Aria.  (If you didn't get the not so subtle hints, we're talking about Breaking Bad, Charmed, and Pretty Little Liars)

5, Snapea Crisps.  This one might come as a shock to anyone that knows me (considering I absolutely loathe peas) but these are seriously SO good.  They're light, airy, crispy, salty .. I could seriously go on, but I'll spare you.  All I will say is that if you haven't tried them yet, you need to.  You're welcome.

That's most definitely NOT all of the guilty pleasures I have, but it's a good place to start.  I think if I were to list them all, you might think I'm crazy (and even if that IS true, I don't want people to know)

I can't wait to see what you'll share about yourself!!  

Happy Sharing!!

Until Next Time .. 

What is Blogging Anyway?

I mean, what the actual purpose?

There are blogs that I read, that I absolutely envy.  The ability to write words so eloquently, is something I'm very jealous of.  That's something that I've always wanted to be able to do.  Express my feelings in written word, and be able to let other people know EXACTLY, without a shadow of a doubt, what I was feeling in the moment that I wrote it.

I started 'blogging' quite a few years ago.  It was basically just a place where I would write my jumbled feelings down, not thinking that anyone was reading it.  Hell, I still don't know if there's anyone actually reading the things that I write, so maybe it's the same thing I've been doing since I started. Who knows.  I enjoy it, so I guess that's what matters.  Right?

I've always wanted my blog to be successful though.  I'll often read through some of the blogs I follow, seeing their thousands of readers and comments, and wonder what the hell I have to do to get that?

I guess the first step, is to actually blog on a regular basis.  Something that I currently do not do.  Who am I kidding?  It's something that I've never done.

I've mentioned before, that I thought it would be very cool to have an 'advice' blog.  A place where people can ask me for, well, advice.  Not that I consider myself to be the I-know-the-meaning-of-life-so-let-me-tell-you kid of person, but, in my real life, it seems that people are constantly asking me what my opinion is of whatever it is that they might be going through.  (holy run-on sentence Batman)

I just don't know what I have to do to get that ball rolling.

I've shared my experiences on things that we've gone through recently, like my daughter's Celiac Disease diagnosis.  That made me feel ... empowered.  Don't ask me why, because I really don't know that I have an answer for that. It's just, the sense of accomplishment (and I don't even know if that's the right word to use) that comes over me when I'm able to help someone through something.  It's like I was meant to do that.

Cliche I know. Yadda Yadda Yadda.

I've even gone so far as to create a board on my Pinterest titled 'Bloggity Blog' (that's the link, you should check it out!) to give myself tips and pointers on how to make my blog POP!  (it also might help if I actually go through and read the tips I've given myself, but that's another blog completely)

So .. if you happen to be a successful blogger, and you have tips that you might feel inclined to share with me, I beg of you, share them.  Help me!!!  I'm desperate!!

Until Next Time ..

Happenings

I've always, and I mean ALWAYS, been fascinated by photography.  

I've always had a yearning in my heart for it.  

From as early as I can remember, I loved snapping photos.  I can remember my grandparents had an old Kodak 35mm that I used to admire.  They never let me touch it, but I always thought it was so pretty to look at.  

I remember getting my first camera.  It was pink.  And long. Remember those? It looked like this

I thought I was the bee's knees when I got this camera.  I had a hard time remembering to wind the film though, and an even harder time trying to remember to drop the film off to be developed.  

My next obsession was Polaroid.  I mean, who DIDN'T love Polaroid?  

Sure the film was a bit more expensive, and you only got a limited number of sheets, but the instant gratification of having that film pop out, was so worth it.  Then of course the shaking.  Of course you didn't have to shake the pictures, but we all knew that the image would appear faster if you did.  So, we shook. 

I've moved up a little bit now a days.  About a year ago, I got my first DSLR.  It was an Olympus EVolt E-500.  I was in camera heaven. I think I took pictures of almost everything I saw for the first month I owned it.  Some of them weren't very good ones either, thankfully they got better.  As my photographers eye (at least in my own mind) got a little more keen, my shots improved.  These are some of my favorites taken with my first DSLR.

The first two shots were take at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site.  There's so much history there, I couldn't resist. 

The third shot is my daughter, playing with the lens of my camera.  I really like the candidness of that one.  It's definitely one of my faves.

The fourth was taken from my front yard during a big snow storm.  Big for our standards anyway. Considering we don't usually get ANY snow, let alone that much.  We had snow on the ground for 3 weeks!

The last one, was also taken from my front yard.  I thought the sunset was beautiful, and the way the trees created their silhouettes, was eye catching.

I've recently added another camera to my collection, if you can call two cameras a collection.  It's a Canon Rebel and it's just as amazing, if not more, than my first.  Here's my favorite image captured with that one .. so far.

This one was taken at The Grotto in Portland, OR.  It's an absolutely beautiful prayer garden.  I was just passing through, and didn't have a lot of time to explore, but it's definitely worth the trip if you're in the area. 

Sharing my shots is something that I enjoy, and I hope you enjoy looking at them just as much. I can't wait to get more, and share more.  It's becoming my most favorite thing to do.  

Until Next Time .. 

I think a change ... will do you good

Things they are a'changing.

Around the ol' blog that is.  If you hadn't noticed, I made some changes with the appearance of the blog.  Yes.  I know.  DUH!

I was getting bored with the way it looked, which could explain why I haven't blogged in a while.

Let me give you tour of the new changes.

I added a 'Follow Me' button for my Pinterest page.  You'll find that in the right sidebar.  I absolutely LOVE Pinterest, even if I do waste an exuberant amount of time on that site.  But let's be honest ladies, who DOESN'T?  Am I right??

I also added some links to some of my favorite blogs.  I subscribe to them, and read them every time there's a new update.  You should definitely give them a little look.  I promise you wont be disappointed.

Another change I made, was getting rid of the lines completely.  The choppiness of the blog before was really annoying, and I'm hoping that the absence of the lines, will make it a bit more aesthetically pleasing.

So .. that's pretty much it.  Aside from changing some colors, and removing some clutter, that's all there is to report.

I have a feeling that I might be posting a bit more (might even be posting 2 today!), but then again I have that feeling more often than not.

Until Next Time,