Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Sandcastle Days 2010

A couple of weeks ago we made our annual trip to visit the Sandcastle Days festival.  I believe it's our 4th year in a row.  The weather is always wonderful, except for the one red tide year.  I get a scratchy throat just thinking about it. *cough, cough*  To be honest, J Bird is more interested in playing in the sand than checking out the amazing sand sculptures that have been entered into the annual competition.


So, after quickly checking out the sculptures we headed out to our favorite beach spot. Work began on her own little sand sculpture, shell collecting, and playing in the surprisingly warm water.  It was such a nice day.  I want to go head back already.







We really need to get back soon!

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

So Much Going On!

Ok, so maybe the 365 project was a bit much for me to take on, but I couldn't give up before the 30 day mark.  I had to give it a real go.

Truth be told, I take so many photos already and I've pushed myself further than expected before this project that I think the guilt factor won't be too much of a concern for me. Ok, well maybe a little guilt, but it will pass soon enough.  I admire everyone who jumps in with both feet and actually make it to the end.  I've seen what this project can do. I will continue to try to discover something new every. single. day. That will not change.  However, I want to concentrate my energy on other projects.  Hopefully, I'll be making an announcement here for any locals that happen to follow my blog and are interested in my type of photography for your family.  *Tap, tap, tapping microphone* Hello, anyone? Anyone at all out there? Oh well, silence has never stopped me before.  I'm excited about the possibilities.  Keep checking this site for more info.

Meanwhile, I will make my husband crazy by throwing ideas at him and begging him to assist me on my little shoots.  They really do go so much better when he's around to help.  Last week I managed to get out by myself with J Bird and we happened to catch the most wonderful golden light. Why was this such a big deal?  It was after a long day at work and school.  We had to go home to change J Bird out of her school uniform, grab camera gear, and drive to our location.  We caught the sun in the last few minutes before sunset.  Thankfully, she was up for the adventure.  Look at this light.


I had been dying to photograph J Bird with our new Gracylu Original headpiece made by the fabulous Tristian.  Her headpieces had inspired me to make one of my own during the wait for this piece to arrive. Remember this one? Who knew I could be somewhat creative? Tristian creates such unique and funky pieces including bridal pieces and adorable little hats. You should definitely check her site out if you get a minute or if you're just plain curious. They're definitely not meant for playtime, but they look great in photos.



It was fun to get off of our regular schedule for this shoot and come away with such fab shots.  We only had a few minutes of real shoot time, but we enjoyed this location (with the exception of the crazy wind.)  We found some awesome pecan trees and she picked a few pecans that had already fallen.  As a matter fact, we ran into an older couple that were picking pecans, as well.  I think they were a bit amused with us.  I didn't realize we were being watched until J Bird mentioned it.  Awkward moment!  Oh, to think of all the funky positions I was in to get my shots. Never mind....let's move on.
 

A quick shoot, but definitely worth the wind and the awkward moments.  I can't help but share these with you.  They make my soul sing. This one has to be one of my all time faves with the leaves on the grass and her classic smile. It's just so her.


Have a great week everyone and get out to find some golden light before the clocks move forward this weekend!