It's Always a Production

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-11-24T17:50:00.001-08:00

So much for which I'm thankful.

Lisa Leonard Giveaway!

2011-03-24T15:02:00.000-07:00

Lisa Leonard's creations are always lovely. Here's a chance for you to win one. Easy to enter - give it a try.

Oval Wallhanging Giveaway.

18/360 - an anniversary

2011-01-31T22:46:00.000-08:00

Last week, when we were celebrating the 9th birthday of my last "homemade" baby, we were also quietly marking the anniversary of another event. Three years ago last Monday, we woke up to the news that while we had been sleeping, on the other side of a world, an Ethiopian judge had seen fit to make us parents for the last time.

At long last, after 8 months of waiting, wondering, fretting, hoping, our Bear was finally our Bear.

It would still be a few weeks before he would come home to us, but on that day he was officially our son.

17/360 -Thematic Photographic 132: Curves

2011-01-31T14:49:00.000-08:00

Carmi's Thematic Photographic this week almost stumped me. Couldn't come up with anything for "curves" until I found these.

Several years ago I learned the ancient art of pysanky. Though traditionally done on eggs, I decided to try the batik technique to make some cards. These are photos of the final results.

16/360 - Nine!

2011-01-24T22:40:00.001-08:00

Nine. Today, my jubilation, my baby, turned nine years old. Nine years old. Still trying to figure how that happened so quickly.

15/360 - Blue

2011-01-23T14:02:00.001-08:00

Thematic Photographic for the week is "blue." Love it. So many different shades, so many ways of looking at it. Fun.

Blue

A Slice of Blue

This little bit of blue just reached out and grabbed me.

Triple Blue
The sky, the ocean, the kites. (Kailua Beach, O'ahu Hawai'i)

"The Left Foot of Budda"

(No kidding - that's what it's called!)

My cousin is an artist and this is his creation.

It adorns the outside of this gallery/home,

the What's a Pot Shop, in Silver City, NM

Blue Hot

Nothing but Blue Skies

The balloons aren't the only reason to look up.

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

Over 600 hot air balloons and a blue sky like this - incredible.

Blue isn't just a color

sometimes it's a feeling - a feeling I know well.

"Speechless" by JDM

More blue images found here at Carmi's Thematic Photographic this week.

14/360

2011-01-23T13:11:00.000-08:00

13/360

2011-01-21T22:00:00.001-08:00

Once upon a time...

we were young.

12/360

2011-01-20T22:17:00.000-08:00

"Every time you wake up and ask yourself,

What good things am I going to do today?,

remember that when the sun goes down at sunset,

it will take a part of your life with it."

- Indian Proverb

11/360

2011-01-20T21:32:00.001-08:00

They endure...

despite my best efforts to neglect them to death.

10/360

2011-01-20T21:19:00.000-08:00

Just Because...

9/360

2011-01-17T16:49:00.000-08:00

I'm glad to be doing Carmi's Thematic Photographic again. While I've enjoyed looking at all the entries each week, I've missed posting photos myself. Right back in there squeaking in at the last moment. (That I'll be trying to change.)

This week's theme has beem Far From Home.

Sunset in Silver City.

Once this was my home and will always be my hometown,

but now, especially after the passing of my dear mom,

when I'm here I feel far from home.

First glimpses of O'ahu.

In June 2009, I took my dislocated knee

(I didn't know it at the time)

and went to Hawai'i with my daughter

Sweetanlo and some very dear friends.

Kailua Beach

So lovely, so windy. Perfect for the Kite Surfers there.

Kailua Beach

I loved watching the waves.

Me, far from home

with Koolau Mountains behind

En Route to Ethiopia

Doesn't get to much farther away from home for us

LemLem playing soccer on Entoto Mountain w/Genet

LemLem on Entoto Mountain, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

The irony is that this Ethiopian beauty, sitting on the mountain

overlooking her hometown is actually far far from home.

A long long trip, almost home.

My daughter Sweetly posted some great Far From Home pictures, here and here.

8/360

2011-01-15T20:17:00.000-08:00

Family.

Pastormac (on the left) and his brother

Pastormac's brother came to town on business. He's a conductor and had been invited to conduct our state's first-ever intercollegiate All State Choir. We were all thrilled he was able to stay around a few days more to enjoy time with our family. (And a day longer when his flight was cancelled due to snow in the east.) It's been a very long time since he's visited. He treated us to movies, eating out, bowling, games, and general fun.

I really married into an amazing family.

Most of the gang with Pastormac & Uncle A.

7/360

2011-01-15T10:38:00.000-08:00

Haircut!

Sweetly was long long over due for a haircut. (Finally! mom got around to making her an appointment with the stylist.)

Before

Looking pretty shaggy.

Time for a new style.

After!

Two thumbs way way up!

She's four inches lighter.

So lovely.

3/360 - 6/360

2011-01-11T21:22:00.000-08:00

Already a failure on my picture-a-day, I'm trying not to give up on the whole doing the whole 360. And I likely would have, if not for the encouragement of Sweetly and Sweetanlo to keep at it. So I'm plugging along for a while longer.

Pastormac's brother, Andy was in town for work last week and stayed a while longer to enjoy some family time with The Production. Today he tried to go home but his flight was cancelled due to snow in the east. We were sorry for him but pleased to have more time together. So he took us out for bowling and dinner.

Took these photos while we were out.

2/360

2011-01-06T22:26:00.001-08:00

They're fiercely loyal and deeply devoted to each other, strikingly similar but also a study in contrasts. They make me absolutely crazy and yet bursting with love. And somedays, I still marvel that they're mine.

2/360 - They're a pair.

1/360

2011-01-05T22:30:00.000-08:00

Once upon a time, I used to blog here. But unlike some friends I have who find writing to be cathartic, writing is difficult to me and I sweat over and mull each word. So when life became so full, I just didn't. And every time I tried, I just couldn't.

But, after a full year's hiatus, I'm back to give it a go. My daughter, Sweetly, and I are going to post a photo (at least) a day. We're starting a few days past the first of the year.

I'm doing a 360 - a full turn around from not blogging at all to posting at least a photo a day for rest of 2011. Maybe I'll be inspired to write some other posts too.

For now, a photo will do.

1/360 - Afternoon Light on the Sandias

There's never a bad time - winter, spring, summer or fall, to gaze upon these majestic Sandia Mountains.

Hope and Expectations

2010-01-01T12:00:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year! Welcome 2010

“A new year is unfolding – like a blossom
with petals curled tightly concealing the beauty within.”

Come to the Manger

2009-12-24T17:03:00.001-08:00

Angels called the shepherds in the middle of the night.
Come to the manger. Come and see.

Baby is born who will bring the world light.
Come to the manger. Come and see.

Light so bright it’ll chase away darkness
Come to the manger. Come and see.

He will bring salvation to everyone who harkens.
Come to the manger. Come and see.

Come, come, come. Come to the manger.
Come, come come. Come and see.
Come, come, come. Come to the manger.
Come to the manger, come and believe.

Star in the East bid the wise men, come!
Come to the manger. Come and see.

Witness the birth of the virgin’s son.
Come to the manger. Come and see.

Traveled many miles their gifts to bring.
Come to the manger. Come and see.

So they could worship the new born king.
Come to the manger. Come and see.

Come, come, come. Come to the manger.
Come, come come. Come and see.
Come, come, come. Come to the manger.
Come to the manger, come and believe.

The Lord is still calling to the hungry and the lost.
Come to the manger. Come and see.

Sinner, you are welcome. Won’t you count the cost?
Come to the manger. Come and see.

Born to die so that you may life
Come to the manger. Come and see.

Make the choice to take the gift he gives
Come to the manger. Come and see.

Come, come, come. Come to the manger!
Come, come come. Come and see!
Come, come, come. Come to the manger!
Come to the manger, come and believe.

Come to the manger words and music written by David Megill

Photo Hunters - Curve(d)

2009-12-05T00:22:00.001-08:00

Photo Hunters - Curve(d)

Saint Francis Cathedral. Santa Fe, NM

Influenced by the French-born Archbishop Lamy and in dramatic contrast to the surrounding adobe structures, Saint Francis Cathedral was designed in the Romanesque Revival style - round arches separated by Corinthian columns and truncated square towers.

PhotoHunt

Photo Hunters - Technology

2009-11-28T15:40:00.000-08:00

Photo Hunters - Technology

I better cut this conversation short. Think she's onto me. I'll text you tomorrow.

PhotoHunt

Thematic Photographic 74

2009-11-24T14:39:00.000-08:00

Carmi's Thematic Photographic this week is orange.

Yeah, I had a hard time seeing past this amazing dessert to anything orange in this picture too. Yummmm.

Photo Hunters - Bird(s)

2009-11-20T23:20:00.000-08:00

Photo Hunters - Bird(s)

Sitting on a beach in Hawaii this summer, his little guy came by to visit me while I was watching everyone in the water. He was pretty perplexed why I wasn't out there with them. Or maybe he just wanted to know why I wasn't eating anything. He is a red-crested cardinal and he made me smile.

More birds here.

A Miracle of the Heart

2009-11-05T22:44:00.000-08:00

Laying awake for hours waiting for it to be time. A bumpy taxi ride. Washed-out muddy streets. A locked metal gate opened before us. A long driveway. Up six steps, we are ushered into the care center living room.

And then this:

My son. The first time I am able to take him in my arms. To kiss him and tell him I love him. We are together. My heart will never be the same.

Red

Thematic Photographic - Leaves Two

2009-11-04T11:36:00.000-08:00

Leaving leaves behind this evening. But before we do I have just one more picture to post for Thematic Photographic this week.

Autumn 2007. This was the first fall my baby experienced here in the Land of Enchantment. Can't believe it was two years ago. We went out in the backyard for another first for her - a family photo. We took many pictures that day and this was one of them. This one must have left a more lasting impression on her though, because she talked about it for months and months afterwards..."Remember when we threw those leaves in the air...?"

Thematic Photographic - Leaves

2009-11-03T22:32:00.000-08:00

This week Carmi's Thematic Photographic theme has been leaves. I've been mulling over whether to post anything or let it pass.

Then today Carmi, with a picture of fallen leaves, challenged us to shift our focus toward one who might otherwise not be seen or heard. I immediately thought of this photo which fit both challenges.

He is neither the oldest nor the baby. He is a middle child.
Sometimes, that is a difficult place to be.

Photo Hunters - Bags

2009-10-30T23:17:00.000-07:00

Photo Hunters were in search of a picture of "bags" this week. This was a challenging one for me, until I stumbled on this picture.

Photo Hunters - Bags

Last fall, our family had a bake sale to raise funds for Free Wheel Chair Mission. We baked brownies and sold them outside our neighborhood drug store. Our goal was to raise enough money to buy one wheel chair for around $50. We were so thrilled when, at the end of our time, we had raised enough through the sale and donations to buy three!!

Bag it.

Skywatch

2009-10-30T00:00:00.000-07:00

Kailua Beach, Hawaii

Yesterday it snowed here in the Land of Enchantment. Brrrrr! I hadn't expected winter to arrive this early - was hoping it would hold out for a few more weeks. The cold and snow wouldn't be such a bother except that our heater isn't working, and won't be until Monday. Brrrr! So I pulled on a sweatshirt and tried to think warm thoughts. Ahhhhh....my mind took me back to a wonderfully warm day I spent at Kailua Beach this last summer. I would love to be back there until Monday. Who am I kidding? I would love to be back there until next spring.

Gaze at more skies - SkyWatch Friday.

Photo Hunters - Sports

2009-10-09T22:41:00.000-07:00

I spent some time at Kailua Beach in Oahu, Hawaii this past June. It's a beautiful beach that's rarely crowded and has plenty of wind. The perfect place for windsurfers. I loved watching them seem to just fly across the waves. The power of the wind is an awesome thing. I captured these images, which fit well with the Photo Hunters theme of the week, "sports!"

Photo Hunters - Sports

Wind Surfers - Kailua Beach, Hawaii

More sports.

Photo Hunters - Twisted

2009-09-26T06:38:00.000-07:00

Photo Hunters - Twisted

The Loretto Staircase
Loretto Chapel
Santa Fe, NM

The Loretto Chapel. Santa Fe, NM. When was completed in 1878, there was no way to access the choir loft twenty-two feet above. Not uncommon of chapels of the time, when priests used ladders to climb into the lofts. But since Loretto was run by nuns, a staircase was needed. The chapel is too small for a conventional staircase. The sister prayed for an answer. Legend has it that a mysterious carpenter appeared and with only a hammer, saw, T-square and buckets of hot water for shaping the woord created the miraculous structure. Months later, the staircase was completed and the carpenter disappeared without pay or thanks. The stairway confounds architects, engineers and master craftsmen. It makes over two complete 360-degree turns, stands 20’ tall and has no center support. It rests solely on its base and against the choir loft. The risers of the 33 steps are all of the same height. Made of an apparently extinct wood species, it was constructed with only square wooden pegs without glue or nails. When finished, the staircase had no handrails. The banister and balusters were added ten years later. It really is an amazing structure.

More Twisted Things

Photo Hunters - Upside Down

2009-09-19T09:32:00.000-07:00

The Photo Hunters theme for the week was "upside down." Kids have a way of really turning your world upside down.

Immediately, these two picture came to mind.

Photo Hunters - Upside Down

TN Chick has more "upside down" at her blog and drop by Criz's place for a bunch "upside down."

Photo Hunters - Orange

2009-09-05T00:00:00.000-07:00

Haven't played along with the Photo Hunters in a while and frankly I've missed it. This summer really derailed life in many ways. I dislocated my knee back in June. Tore my ACL and meniscus and damaged the cartilage on my femur where my bones crunched together. The summer itself was consumed with the repair and a long recovery, with very little energy to do anything else, esp. blog. And I still have a ways to go yet.

But the end of August symbolizes the beginning of fall (even though officially it will be several more weeks before it's arrival). And I'm happily saying "good-bye" to summer with a renewed hope that I can come back to blogging with new vigor. Time will tell I suppose.

So I'm jumping (figuratively, of course) back into The Hunt and have found a photo I took of something "orange."

Photo Hunters - Orange

I saw this photo that I took last spring and it made me feel happy. I could use a little more happy lately so it seemed like a really good choice.

You'll find more "orange" things at the blog of TN Chick - the creator of The Photo Hunt. (for which I'm grateful) And also, if you'd like to find a place with easy links to many Photo Hunters' blogs, you can always drop by my bloggy and photographic friend, Napaboaniya. Her photo choice for orange is terrific!

20 years

2009-08-13T14:52:00.000-07:00

Twenty years ago, I was just a girl and he was a boy and we got married, because God had taken three years to lead us together.

Today, twenty years later, God still leads us together, a little more each day.

I know him better and I love him more. I "get" him better and I love him more. I love him deeper and more passionately and with a clearer understanding of what love really is. I am convinced that even the worst thing in the world is vastly better if I am with him than the best of things by myself; and I would choose go with him to hell and back as long as we are together.

He gets me. He loves me. He knows me better than any other human being and he still loves me.

It's amazing. It's miraculous. It's a priceless treasure.

We are blessed.

Thematic Photographic - Laundry

2009-08-02T22:14:00.000-07:00

Carmi's Thematic Photographic challenge of the week is laundry. Interesting and fun choice.

Although we have mountains of laundry around here, I couldn't bring myself to take a photo of it. The battle itself of trying to keep the laundry at bay is tough enough, I don't need photos of it to remind me that I'm usually losing.

Instead I've chosen this photo. We don't have a laundry line we have this.

My daughter jokes that around here when the tree starts to bear this kind of "fruit," we know Spring has arrived.

Photo Hunters - Entertainment

2009-08-01T12:27:00.000-07:00

This week the Photo Hunters were in search of photos of "entertainment." So vast a topic! Was it a tough choice for me, you ask? Are you kidding me!? I have seven children. We have enough entertainment around here I should sell tickets.

Photo Hunters - Entertainment

More entertainment can be found here.

Photo Hunters - Utensil(s)

2009-07-24T22:20:00.000-07:00

Photo Hunters - Utensil(s)

More Utensil(s).

Photo Hunters - Garbage

2009-07-10T23:18:00.000-07:00

Finally back to Photo Hunters this week. It's been a while. Today's theme of "garbage" threw me for a loop until I stopped by Carver's Place. I realized that "garbage" could be a part of my photo without being the primary focus of it. Then my choice came to mind right away.

Photo Hunters - Garbage

This is looking down the street from the frontyard of the home where we stayed in O'ahu Hawi'i. It was such a quiet and lovely street. Can you see why this picture fits the theme?

More garbage to be explored.

Thematic Photographic - Cloudy

2009-06-30T23:15:00.000-07:00

Fell off the face of the earth for a few weeks. First, as a result of doing something careless and dangerous, I took a fall and hurt my knee. Won't know the extent of the damage for another week when I finally have a follow-up appointment with the othropaedic doc who will review an MRI of my injured knee. I do know at a minimum, I dislocated my kneecap. Ouch.

Double ouch that I hurt my knee five days before I was expected to fly to O'ahu Hawai'i with my daughter and a group of her friends for a week in paradise. Wasn't sure if I was going to be able to make it but I packed my suitcase and took my bum knee on vacation.

Which brings me to these pictures which I'm posting for Carmi's Thematic Photographic challenge this week of cloudy. These are all photos I took on my trip to Hawai'i. Even with a bum knee, it was an amazing trip.

Thematic Photographic - Dusk

2009-06-09T17:53:00.000-07:00

I'm at the tail end of Thematic Photographic this week as usual. But I love Carmi's theme of "dusk" so much that I decided not to let this one pass.

Dusk is truly one of my favorite times of day. A peaceful time. The coolness of the day. The muted colors. The amazing sky. Ahhhhh. I just love to take a deep breath and take it all in.

I was going to try to pick a favorite one of these photos but I couldn't. Maybe you'll have a favorite - leave me comment and let me know.

Now I'm off to enjoy my favorite time of day.

You can enjoy dusk anytime of day, here

Photo Hunters - Book(s)

2009-05-29T23:39:00.001-07:00

Believe it or not, this week's Photo Hunters theme of "book(s)" was a tough one for me. It isn't as though we don't have books to photograph. We definitely have a lot of book-lovers in our family and therefore a plethora of books. We have books everywhere! I just couldn't think of a creative way to make the theme interesting.

Then I remember this photo that I took of my kids last November during a brief stop while we were on a road-trip. Works well for the theme but is also a fun photo. Plus, the book featured is one of my all-time favorites.

Photo Hunters - Book(s)

I love this picture. My kids are characters.

I'll be really interested to see all the other books this weekend.

Some Gave All

2009-05-25T07:07:00.001-07:00

these words feel inadequate,
but I will say them and will never forget
this sacrifice given freely so that I may be free...

thank you

Photo used by permission. www.fotolia.com

Photo Hunters - Plastic

2009-05-23T09:32:00.000-07:00

The Photo Hunters theme of the week was "plastic."

Remember these old toys? Lite-Brite

You poke the plastic pieces through the black paper and the light from behind creates a beautiful picture. I had one when I was a kid. I can even remember the tune of the jingle from the commercial..."Lite-Brite, makin' things with light. Outta sight, makin' things with Lite-Brite." Hasbro has made an updated version but I found this original version at a garage sale and picked it up for my kids. They love playing with it as much as I did.

Photo Hunters - Plastic

More plastic things.

Thematic Photographic - Human

2009-05-17T20:08:00.000-07:00

This photo just spoke to me. What could be more human than napping the trip away, the sun streaming in, the landscape zipping by?

They do everything else together. Why not sleep side-by-side in exactly the same position?

Thanks Carmi, for the inspiration and encouragement to look at the human side of things.

Photo Hunters - Painted

2009-05-16T01:58:00.000-07:00

Photo Hunters were searching for something "painted" this week. Should be an interesting full of diverse and amazing photos.

I chose this photo.

Photo Hunters - Painted

This was sculpted and "painted" by my cousin, Harry Benjamin. He calls it, "The Left Foot of Budda" and it stands outside his home and gallery, The What's a Pot Shop.

I especially like it for our theme this week because it appears that the toe nails have been painted red.

Please do stop by TNChick's Place for great links to all sorts of "paintings" this weekend.

Skywatch

2009-05-14T23:19:00.000-07:00

Sunset
Silver City, New Mexico

Skies - SkyWatch Friday.

What I want for Mother's Day

2009-05-09T22:01:00.000-07:00

What I Really Want for Mother's Day

adapted by the song, Grown-up Christmas List by David Foster (music) and Linda Thompson-Jenner

No more lives torn apart
That wars would never start
And time would heal all hearts
and everyone would have a friend
And right would always win
And love would never end

The Production

Without these guys, I wouldn't even be a mom.

Photo Hunters - In Memory

2009-05-08T23:52:00.000-07:00

Photo Hunters - In Memory

...a quiet moment with the past...

Masonic Cemetery
Silver City, New Mexico
March 2009

Pay your respects at TNChick's Place.

Photo Hunters - Walking

2009-05-02T00:09:00.000-07:00

When I heard what this week's Photo Hunters was, I couldn't stop thinking of the chorus to that old Nancy Sinatra song:

These boots are made for walking, and that's just what they'll do...

And then this picture became obvious.

Photo Hunters - Walking

I know. They look intimidating, huh? Downright scary. They were modeling their most fierce "super hero" look.

So lookout bad guys!

One of these days these boots are gonna walk all over you.

More walking over at TNChick's Place.

A Ring

2009-04-28T21:55:00.000-07:00

When I saw these rings at Marty's Etsy Shop - Silver Pie Jewelry - I knew that I wanted one.

So I asked Pastormac if I could buy myself one. And he said, "Sure!" (like I knew that he would.)

The catch was that I wanted him to decide what would be stamped on my ring. I didn't want it say simply, "Married" or "Princess". I wanted him to choose what my ring would say. It would be more meaningful to me that way. At a glance I would see his message to me. You can imagine my pleasure when he told me his choice just a moment after I asked him.

Much like the message for me from the ring he gave me twenty years ago tonight, when he got down on one knee and asked me to be his wife. Twenty years(!) ago when he slipped an engagement ring on my finger and promised to marry me. The message didn't need to stamped on that ring; and tonight just like that special night, it says the same thing to me, "beloved."

Marty was fantastic to work with and I would heartily encourage everyone to buy something from her shop.

She graciously stamped a message on the inside of my new ring too.

I'm so blessed that I said, "yes!"

Thematic Photographic, Love Thursday

Photo Hunters - Protect(ion)

2009-04-24T22:42:00.001-07:00

Photo Hunters were hunting for a photo of "protect(ion)" this week. Immediately, for me, something came to mind.

Photo Hunters - Protect(ion)

See that look of determination? He's saying it with his face. He wants to make sure you know: "This is my sister. You want to mess with her? You'll need to mess with me first."

He is her big brother even if it is by only four months. He has built a strong hedge of protection around her, always looking out for her. If you're leaving, you better have said goodbye to her first. Are you giving out something, he'll make sure she gets her share. Are we going somewhere? She's coming along, right? Thinking of playing a game? Let's see what she wants to do first. He loves her with a fierce, loyal, protective love. And she loves him right back. The feeling is mutual.

They weren't brother and sister until they became members of our family. Had never laid eyes on each other until they were moved to the care center where they'd spend six months together waiting for us to come get them and bring them home. God knit their hearts together in ways that I know are nothing short of mysterious and miraculous.

Drop by TNChick's Place for a look at more "protect(ion)".

Photo Hunters - Purple

2009-04-18T07:42:00.000-07:00

Photo Hunters - Purple

Sometimes life feels like this

More Purple Things.

Thematic Photographic - Edible

2009-04-13T23:28:00.001-07:00

Carmi's Thematic Photographic challenge of the week was edible. So many interesting ways to photograph something that is "fit to be eaten." Some delicious. Some not-so-much. I suppose, in many ways, "edible" is in the eye (or mouth) of the beholder.

By all accounts (well, most accounts anyway) these are definitely edible.

The Sacrific Lamb

2009-04-12T07:02:00.000-07:00

THE SACRIFICE LAMB

(Joel Chernoff)

Have you ever heard Messiah has come?
It says in His Word to cleanse every one
Atonement He made iniquity bore
That we can find life in Him evermore

The Sacrifice Lamb has been slain
His blood on the alter a stain
To wipe away guilt and pain
To bring hope eternal
Salvation has come to the world
God's only Son to the world
Jesus the one for the world
Yeshua is He

The prophets of old speak much of Messiah
His death is foretold the purpose is clear
Isaiah did say 'twas for an atonement
To give us a way that leads not to death

The Sacrifice Lamb has been slain
His blood on the alter a stain
To wipe away guilt and pain
To bring hope eternal
Salvation has come to the world
God's only Son to the world
Jesus the one for the world
Yeshua is He

So brothers of mine look not to yourselves
For we are but one we all need His help
We've broken the Law but He paid our debt
That we can find life by Yeshua's death

The Sacrifice Lamb has been slain
His Blood on the alter a stain
To wipe away guilt and pain
To bring hope eternal
So final atonement has come
And brought us new hope by God's Son
If you will believe in your heart
Yeshua you'll know

Amen!

May your Easter be blessed with the joy of the Resurrection.

Photo Hunters - Triangle

2009-04-10T23:42:00.000-07:00

PhotoHunters were in search of "triangles" this week.

This weekend rather than search my archives for a picture that might work, I decided to take my camera out with me, and with "triangles" in mind, see what I could photograph that would fit the theme.

At first, my search was seemed fruitless. I was looking all around and not seeing anything. Then I happened to glance out my window at the car sitting next to me in traffic and noticed something. "Hey!" I thought. "How about that?" Suddenly there were triangles all around me. So once we got to where we were going, I took the first chance I could to snap this picture.

Photo Hunters - Triangle

Check out all the triangles at TNChick's place.

Skywatch Friday

2009-04-09T21:47:00.000-07:00

My mom was laid to rest here, almost 6 years ago.
Silver City, New Mexico

Gaze at more skies - SkyWatch Friday.

Thematic Photographic - Reflective

2009-04-07T23:55:00.000-07:00

Reflective - Carmi's Thematic Photographic challenge of the week.

Mom

2009-04-07T22:04:00.000-07:00

Scribbit hosts a monthly writing contest and this month's topic is, "Mom."

Lucky for me, she allows past writings to be submitted, because that means I can enter, this post. It means a lot to me and I'm pleased to post it again.

Are you a mom? Write a post about what it means to you and enter it. Or you have a mom, right? Well, write a post about that. So many ways to write about "Mom," why don't you give it a try? Drop by Scribbit's blog for a look at the details.

Photo Hunters - Stripes

2009-04-03T23:53:00.000-07:00

"Stripes" were on tap for the PhotoHunt this week.

This was a really tough one for me, until I remembered this photo I have of Pastormac, that a good friend took for me. He was taking a break from a drama he was doing for a Vacation Bible School program.

I consider this picture a precious gift.

Photo Hunters - Stripes

Don't forget to drop by TNChick's place for a look at more "stripes."

Photo Hunters - Hands

2009-03-28T10:41:00.000-07:00

The PhotoHunt had us in search of "hands" this week.

I chose "holding hands."

Photo Hunters - Hands

TNChick has more hands.

Thematic Photographic - Drink

2009-03-23T16:00:00.000-07:00

Carmi's Thematic Photographic for the week has been "drink." I've had a fun time perusing the different pictures of the photographers who took up the challenge.

Here are a couple of photos of my drink of choice. (Actually it's more like an addiction.)

Ahhhhh, makes me thirsty just looking at it.

Photo Hunters - Yellow

2009-03-21T08:58:00.000-07:00

What a perfect theme for this fine spring day! PhotoHunters are searching for a picture of "yellow." Can't wait to see what lovely things we see today.

So many fun ways to capture "yellow!"

Sweetly has a great photo of one of my all time favorite flowers. And I really like the creative way that Sweetanlo has chosen to show us some yellow. These are two great new bloggers (oh, no! I'm not biased at all!) Won't you please drop by and leave them a an encouraging comment? And if you have a little time, surf around some of their other posts. Sweetanlo is a writer and Sweetly is a photographer. Both with many good things to share. (oh no, not biased at all!) I think you'll be glad if you followed them. They both have some terrific posts including their "yellow" photos for today's Hunt.

Here's my photo for our "yellow" theme.

I dare you to look at this photo and not feel that pull and tightening at the sides of your mouth! Betcha can't keep your mouth from watering! Pucker up!

Photo Hunters - Yellow

Thanks to TNChick for our lovely spring theme. More yellow at her place.

Thematic Photographic - Kitchen

2009-03-17T14:20:00.000-07:00

Carmi's Thematic Photographic

Photo Hunters - Four

2009-03-14T13:35:00.000-07:00

Playing late today. Not sure why, since this week's PhotoHunt challenge was an easy one for me. Photos of "four."

Waiting until today did allow me to peruse and admire the offerings of many talented Photo Hunter friends. The Mecombers Travel Photojournal has a really cute photo of four. Little Peanut's picture made me hungry. I knew I could count on Criz for some cuddly shots of my favorite pet. But Hootin Anni's Four may just be my favorite for the week - the Yucca Flower is near and dear to my heart.

My choice for the week was immediately clear. I chose this guy and in the first picture he's telling you why.

Photo Hunters - Four

My Bear showing FOUR fingers

Blowing out FOUR candles

Playing with his brothers. Yup, I've got FOUR boys!

More four at TNChick's place

Love Thursday

2009-03-12T07:12:00.000-07:00

I tell you, the more I think, the more I feel
that there is nothing more truly artistic than to love people.
-Vincent van Gogh

#1Son is an artist. He's eleven. He literally draws for hours and hours each day.

He's still not sure if he's talented.

Love Thursday

Thematic Photographic - Transparent

2009-03-10T18:34:00.000-07:00

I'm just squeaking in before the deadline for Carmi's Thematic Photographic this week.

Better late than never I'd say because I had so much fun searching out photos of things that are "transparent," it would be a shame not to share them.

Photo Hunters - Space

2009-03-07T09:23:00.000-08:00

This week's PhotoHunt theme was a tough one for me. Last night, as I sat here thinking of photos of "space," all that came to mind were pictures that I WISH I had taken...

Like the amazing moon photos that JC and Shinade took, or Photo Cache's arial shot of parking spaces, something to inspire like Annie's "sacred spaces", or a photo to instill a little space-envy like Becci's crafty space. I wished I had a picture of a wide open space like Jams o Donnell's or an astronaut photo like, Sassy Mom.

Frustrated, I decided to sleep on it.

This morning my little space presented itself to me.

It's the tiniest of spaces and will vanish soon when his adult tooth pushes up to fill its vacancy. But this little space fills my heart up with love - right up to the top and overflowing.

Space out at TNChick's place

Staying Sane (apparently it's possible)

2009-03-04T22:20:00.000-08:00

I have been a huge fan of Mary at Owlhaven for more than three years now. I began reading her blog faithfully as we experienced our adoption adventure, even before beginning my own blog. As an adoptive mom herself, and the mother of many, I trust her wise counsel, enjoy reading about her family and truly appreciate her accessibility and friendship.

I'm so thrilled to announce that Mary's new book, Sane Woman's Guide to Raising a Large Family is about to be released! I can't wait to read it.

Mary is giving away four copies of her new book. Head over to her blog for the details.

As for me, whether I win a copy or have to buy a copy, you can be sure I will be reading this book come April.

Congratulations Mary!

Thematic Photographic - Winter

2009-02-28T09:32:00.000-08:00

Carmi's Thematic Photographic challenge this week was "winter."

I have really been enjoying the photos that have been displayed. The ideal way to experience winter, if you ask me, through photographs! Mojo has some great winter photos up. JC's winter scenes are amazing! Bunty Bunny even captured snowflakes in the air. Sweetly has a series of winter shots that are really worth a look.

As for me, while pondering what photo to take with winter in mind, this what I chose.

This is winter to me - all our coats hung up and us warm and cozy inside. Of course, a picture on the normal day would have had 1/2 these coats laying on the ground underneath the coat rack. Oh well.

Stay warm.

Photo Hunters - Thankful

2009-02-28T00:00:00.000-08:00

The theme for the PhotoHunt this week is "thankful." This one was pretty simple for me. While I have so much to be thankful for, Pastormac is right there at the very top of the list, just below God who brought us together.

Photo Hunters - Thankful

I'm thankful that nearly 20 years old he asked me to be his wife. And I'm thankful that I had the sense to say, "Yes!"

I'm married to my best friend. How could I not be thankful for that?

Thanks TNChick!

Love Thursday - Follow Your Heart

2009-02-26T14:24:00.000-08:00

I can hardly believe how quickly time seems to fly by. Wasn't it just Saturday? And now the week is almost over.

It's Love Thursday. A very good day. Over at Chookooloonks Karen is talking about following your heart.

My followed my heart when it told me that, though it sounded crazy, we needed another son and not just another daughter.

I followed my heart to Ethiopia.

I followed my heart and it lead me to this amazing incredible guy.

Here's to Love Thursday and to following your heart.

Photo Hunters - Warm

2009-02-21T09:32:00.000-08:00

So many different ways to show our Photo Hunters theme of the week - "warm." Cindy has a fun take on "warm." East Coast Life went with something warm and delicious, as did Blur Mommy. Yum! And I wished that I could have just walked through my computer screen and into the warm place pictured over at Carver's blog.

I was wracking my brains trying to figure out what photo to post for "warm." Then while I was showering this morning, it hit me...

Photo Hunters - Warm

Get it? - It hit me.

Drop by TNChick's place - where more warm is.

Photo Hunters - Nautical

2009-02-14T07:38:00.000-08:00

I almost didn't do Photo Hunters today because, frankly, I'm pretty short on "nautical" photos. I know that my friends Snap2Days, Expat Traveler, Sarge Charlie, and JC have terrific nautical photos up today. And of course, over at It's Not a Weekend, It's a Lifestyle, Elaine has a great photo posted as well as a Mr. Linky with links to a bunch of great Photo Hunters' nautical pictures.

As for me, I finally realized that I while I was lacking in photos of ships, I could take a picture of something I have that is nautical-related. These are glass fishing floats and are definitely nautical.

Photo Hunters - Nautical

Deepest thanks to TNChick for all her work to make the Photo Hunt happen.

Photo Hunters - Bridge(s)

2009-02-06T23:38:00.000-08:00

I'm really looking forward to looking at the terrific photos of "bridge(s)" that the Photo Hunters will be posting today. I am prepared to be amazed and inspired.

As for my "bridge" photos - while driving home from a trip to Utah I stopped to take these pictures from a bridge that crossed over the Colorado River. The second one was the view from atop the bridge itself. The river looks so brown because it was late summer and with very little rain, the water level was very low level.

Photo Hunters - Bridge(s)

TNChick's place has more bridges.

Get Serious!

2009-02-02T00:00:00.000-08:00

I wanted you to know about this publication I’m a part of called Serious.Life Magazine. They just published the February issue today, and I am in their Featured Blog Directory. It’s a very high quality magazine… you’ll really like it.

The magazine includes a lot of great content from bloggers you’ll appreciate, as well as great features, photos and other content. The magazine is owned and published by a family who have seven kids, three adopted and one who has Leukemia (www.riggsfamilyblog.com). The magazine gives away a bunch of ads to charities and ministries. Besides great articles on interesting people, there is a lot about family, adoption, personal finance, spiritual life, humor… all sorts of “life” topics.

Again, the subscription is free, and I know you’ll enjoy the magazine, so take a minute to check it out and sign up to get future issues. www.seriouslifemagazine.com

Photo Hunters - Furry

2009-01-31T00:26:00.000-08:00

Photo Hunters - Furry

More "furry" things here.

It's Bloggy Giveaway Time Again!

2009-01-27T14:08:00.000-08:00

It's Bloggy Giveaway time already! And it's crazy how many giveaways are already posted - over 1000! Wow!

I like my giveaway. I'd like to win it myself. Alas and alack, it will have to one of you.

We have been sponsors through Compassion International since 1991. I believe in Compassion so much, I've been an member of their Advocate Network for seven years. I know that Compassion uses sponsorship funds to release children in Third World countries from poverty - spiritual, economic, social and physical poverty & enable them to become responsible and fulfilled Christian adults. And the best part is: it happens one-on-one - you matched with a child in need. If you really give it a try, I guarantee you it'll change both your lives. I know this because I've been able to see it first hand. You can take my word for it, because I've lived it and I'm changed forever. There are children waiting for sponsors right now. Take a look.

Oh yeah, the giveaway! Sorry. Once I get started talking about Compassion, it's hard for me to stop.

To support Compassion's Global Food Crisis Fund the winner of my giveaway will receive one of these nifty "Please" t-shirts.
You pick the Country/Language you want from the four they offer. I'll purchase it and send it to you. I have this t-shirt with the word "Please" in Amharic (Ethiopia). It's super cool! You want one, trust me.

And to sweeten this giveaway, I'm also giving away a Starbucks giftcard for $15.

If you're not a coffee drinker, they do have some new teas you can try out. I thought the Vanilla Rooibos tea latte was pretty good but I'm partial their iced non-fat chai latte. Yum! Told you I'd like to win my own giveaway but I promise I won't enter.

One winner both prizes! To be entered in my giveaway, just leave me ONE comment. The giveaway is open to anyone living in the US or Canada with a valid email address (no blog necessary.) Just be sure that I have a way to contact you should you win. You don't have to in order to win but I'd love for you to use your comment to tell me how you're changing the world. I'm closing comments on Saturday, January 31st at 7PM & I will use a random number generator to select the winner. Good luck!

There are a bazillion more giveaways for you to enter here! I'm not even exaggerating! Come back by The Production and visit sometime.

A big "Thank You!" to Chilihead for organizing the Bloggy Giveaways.

Photo Hunters - Hat(s)

2009-01-16T22:26:00.000-08:00

"Hat(s)" is the theme of the week for Photo Hunters. This wasn't a tough one for me.

Photo Hunters - Hat(s)

Check TNChick's place for more "hats."

Knock Knock!

2009-01-16T16:45:00.000-08:00

Who's there?

LemLem, my three year old daughter home from Ethiopia since August '07, is learning the fine art of telling "Knock-Knock" jokes. She's hilarious no doubt, but obviously she doesn't quite get it yet.

LemLem: Knock-knock?
Sweetanlo: Who's there?
LemLem: Boo.
Sweetanlo Boo who?
LemLem: God bless you! That was quite a sneeze!

LemLem: Knock-knock?
Sweetanlo: Who's there?
LemLem: Orange.
Sweetanlo Orange who?
LemLem: Orange the bathtub, I'm dwaining!

LemLem: Knock-knock?
Sweetanlo: Who's there?
LemLem: Salad.
Sweetanlo Salad who?
LemLem: Salad us in it's cold outside!

She's still got a lot to learn.

Able to leap piles of laundry in a single bound...

2009-01-15T13:16:00.000-08:00

Our boy, Bear, (he's almost 4) has been home from Ethiopia for a little less than a year now. In what seems like a short time, he has become deeply ingrained in all things Super Hero. Batman being his favorite.

He loves watching the cartoons, looking through the comic books and pretending to be Batman himself. Recently, he has even started putting this on Batman cape and standing in front of a fan watching it flutter.

As you can imagine, he and I spend many many conversations discussing these heros.
Who flies.
Who swings.
What color do they wear?
Who are the bad guys?
Who punches?
Who runs?
Who kicks?
Why does Superman wear a cape?
What's on Batman's chest?
Why does Spiderman swing or Captain American run so fast.

Some of these questions are difficult to answer and I end up sounding like this, "Superman wears blue and red because...well...he's... Superman." Lame, I know.

Sometimes though, God gives us little gifts. The other night we had this conversation as I was serving his dinner.

Bear: "Why you wearing that shirt?" pointing to my sleeve as I put down his plate in front of him.
Me, trying to come up with some reason for my clothing selection of the day: "Because I'm the mom."
Bear: "You a Super Hero?"
Me, smiling to myself, "Well, somedays, son. Somedays I am."

Licensed to Drive

2009-01-13T13:26:00.000-08:00

This morning, my first-born, my 16 year old daughter Sweetanlo, passed her driving test and is now a licensed driver. It is a huge accomplishment for her.

I am both thrilled and terrified all at once.

The baby girl who ushered me into motherhood is, in just the blink of an eye, going to usher herself right out from under my roof and into the "real world." She's a young lady now and she's amazing.

I am both thrilled and terrified all at once.

Deep sigh.

The dicotomy of motherhood: preparing our children, pushing them out the door to experience all that life has to offer, and yet fearful of the life they might encounter...

I am both thrilled and terrified all at once.

Photo Hunters - Aftermath

2009-01-09T23:08:00.001-08:00

I've been trying to think of a good photo for this week's Photo Hunters theme of "aftermath." I really like what JC came up with for the challenge. Lots of things come to mind that I could have photographed - like the bags of wrapping paper left over after we opened presents on Christmas morning or the piles and piles of dirty dishes stacked in the sink after a meal on any given day at our house. But I don't generally take pictures of trash or my dirty kitchen.

So I decided on these photos.

Photo Hunters - Aftermath

The aftermath of a romp in the snow after a rare snow storm???

Why, a snowman, of course!.

Thanks to TNChick Photo Hunters continues on in 2009! Stop by for a look at more "aftermath."

Time for a vacation? Already?

2009-01-07T11:17:00.001-08:00

So it's barely early January. But it's not too early to start thinking about vacation.

To celebrate their 7th birthday, SunglassWarehouse.com is giving away a $3000 vacation package to one lucky winner.

Click over there and throw your name in the hat.

Photo Hunters - Squeaky

2008-12-27T08:04:00.000-08:00

This week we had a tough assignment, Photo Hunters had to take a photo of something "squeaky".

Photo Hunters - Squeaky

Lucky for me, this mouse only pretends to be "squeaky".

Stop by TNChick's place has more squeaky things.

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-25T00:00:00.000-08:00

The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.
We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only,
who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
John 1:14

Are you willing to believe that love is the strongest thing in the world - stronger than hate, stronger than evil, stronger than death - and that the blessed life which began in Bethlehem nineteen hundred years ago is the image and brightness of the Eternal Love?
Then you can keep Christmas.

Henry Van Dyke

May your Christmas be filled with unexpected blessings, the sweet fellowship of family and friends, much love and laughter, and a renewed appreciation for the most amazing gift we have ever received - Jesus.

Merry Christmas from all of us here at The Production.

Thematic Photographic - Quiet

2008-12-24T07:19:00.000-08:00

Carmi is about to post a new Thematic Photographic Challenge. But before he does, I'm going to squeeze in and post these photos of this week's theme, "quiet."

As you can imagine, life in a family of nine reaches pretty high decibels. Somedays I feel like my head going to downright explode from the noise. So I cherish this magical time, though too brief, when quiet descends on our home like a warm blanket and cuddles us with it's warm embrace. That magical quiet called naptime.

Photo Hunters - Wide

2008-12-19T23:18:00.000-08:00

Photo Hunters were searching for a photo of something "wide" this week. This was a tough challenge for me. Finally settled on this photo of my boy Bear in a wide-brimmed hat.

Photo Hunt - Wide

I love this picture!

Stop by TNChick's place for a look at more wide things.

Photo Hunters - Favorite

2008-12-13T00:41:00.000-08:00

Today Photo Hunters are posting pictures of their favorites. I wonder what different kinds of things we will see. The theme is so broad.

Tonight we decorated our Christmas tree. Of the hundred or so pictures we took of the process, this one is my favorite. It's a nice picture of our Christmas tree (which as you can see, lists to one side) but it's my favorite because of the two little people captured in it: Shorty, my almost 7 year old son and his little sister LemLem (3). You can click to enlarge the photo for a better view.

Photo Hunt - Favorite

Just so happens that this photo fits Carmi's Thematic Photographic Challenge of "bright" this week too. Yay me!

Favorites

Photo Hunters - Breakfast

2008-12-06T01:11:00.000-08:00

I am really looking forward to gazing upon the deliciousness that will be found today as the Photo Hunters post their pictures of our theme this week - breakfast. Yum.

Photo Hunt - Breakfast

Somedays my breakfast is simply this:

But I'd much rather it be this:

Calabacitas and pintos. Add an egg to that plate - perfection. I could eat this everyday.

Hungry for more?

Thematic Photographic - Sweet

2008-12-02T07:22:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Carmi's Thematic Photographic Challenge this week we've been looking for something "sweet." My daughter LemLem (3) took a long at Carmi's photo and said, "We should get that for dinner...I really want to eat that." I agreed with her.

Here is my "sweet" for the week.

Apple Cobbler a la mode - warm, sweet, delicious

Dessert is always good but this is REALLY sweet and it's calorie-free.

Sweetness Overload

Photo Hunters - Metal

2008-11-28T23:30:00.000-08:00

The Photo Hunters were looking to photo something "metal." What an interesting theme. So make sure you stop by TNChick's place for a look at tons of creative ways that metal can be displayed.

The metal I've chosen for my photo is more than just stainless steel. I'd call it metal with a mission.

While we were in Ethiopia picking up LemLem and Bear, we took several containers of donations to an place called AHOPE. "AHOPE for Children is a non-profit organization whose mission is to serve the children of Ethiopia, with a primary emphasis on caring for orphans infected with HIV. In Addis Ababa, AHOPE's two pleasant, well-staffed Children's Homes care exclusively for orphans who are HIV+ and have no extended family to care for them. Many of these children are now finding their forever families through adoption. AHOPE's Community Outreach Program enables orphaned children to remain within their extended families and culture, while receiving medical care, education, food, and other services."

This summer, in order to raise awareness and financial support, AHOPE began selling these stainless steel bracelets. Right away, we ordered one for each member of our family old enough to wear one.

Photo Hunt - Metal

"Each stainless steel AHOPE bracelet features the AHOPE logo, the first name of an AHOPE child, and the Amharic word for "hope." The bracelets serve as a reminder of the special children at AHOPE, and raise awareness of the plight of HIV+ orphans in the world. By wearing an AHOPE Bracelet, you join our efforts in caring for these children."

You can find more information about AHOPE, here.

And you can buy yourself an AHOPE bracelet at the online AHOPE Store, here.

We have much to be thankful for...

2008-11-27T10:25:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

from all of us here at The Production

Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues,
but the parent of all the others.
Cicero

Let every thing that hath breath praise the Lord.
Praise ye the Lord.
Psalm 150:6

As we express our gratitude,
we must never forget that the highest appreciation
is not to utter words, but to live by them.
John Fitzgerald Kennedy

Homemade Craft Ideas

2008-11-24T17:50:00.000-08:00

My friend, Antique Mommy, is hosting a fantastic Homemade Holiday Craft Carnival, featuring the best in hand-crafted holiday gifts and decorations from around the world wide web. You better believe it.

We like making homemade crafts as presents for people and so have posted several times on different projects we have tried.

You can find out how to make these nifty record bowls right here.

One GROOVY Bowl

And the instructions for making cute sparkly Christmas ornaments like these are right here.

Now, head on over to Antique Mommy's Place for more great ideas and don't forget to add your own ideas. Come on, you know you have them!

Thematic Photographic - Broken

2008-11-24T13:20:00.000-08:00

Carmi's Thematic Photographic Challenge for the week was "broken." Carmi and his Thematic Photographic contributors have come up with some very creative photos expressing the theme. For instance, check out Barb's amazing sea shell pictures! The ocean sure is rough on shells before it tosses them upon the beach.

Sometimes life can be rough on us and toss us around too.

Ouch!!

Photo Hunters - Reflection

2008-11-21T23:56:00.000-08:00

"Reflection" is the Photo Hunters theme of the week. Today I thought I'd showcase the photography skills of my two older daughters. Sweetly(13) took the first photo of her brother #1Son and Sweetanlo(16) took the second one of Bear.

Photo Hunt - Reflection

reflection: am image seen in a mirror or shiny surface.

reflection: serious thought or consideration.

More reflections here.

Thematic Photographic - Rows

2008-11-17T22:20:00.000-08:00

"Rows" was the theme of Carmi's Thematic Photographic Challenge for the week. Well, this weekend I finally took a couple a photos that fit the challenge.

At my favorite coffee shop, rows of delicious pies and cakes and other yummy looking treats tempt me.

Upstairs, rows of something else tempt me too.

Wow, I love this place!

Photo Hunters - Ruin(ed)

2008-11-14T23:24:00.000-08:00

Pesky sun - ruined this picture of my boys.

Photo Hunt - Ruin(ed)

They're still pretty cute.

Look here for more ruined things.

Photo Hunters - Together

2008-11-08T00:13:00.000-08:00

We waited a long time for all our children to be together.

Sometimes it feels like a dream that now they actually are.

Photo Hunt - Together

click to enlarge

Togetherness.

Thematic Photographic - Autumn

2008-11-05T22:10:00.000-08:00

Carmi's Thematic Photographic Challenge for this week: Autumn!

Note: I've included the pictures of hot air balloons because they truly are a sign that autumn has arrived here. The cooler weather offers prime conditions for the balloons to go up. When we start to see the balloons in sky in the mornings, it's a sure sign that autumn has come.

Thematic Photographic - Night

2008-11-05T10:27:00.000-08:00

I'm barely squeezing in under the wire with Carmi's Thematic Photographic Challenge this week. He challenged us with "Night." I found this one to be tough.

Just so happens that Halloween fell during this week when we were looking for photos of "night" and so afforded the opportunity to grab a fitting photo.

And while searching my archives, I found this picture of #1Son at a Seder celebration checking the door for Elijah. He was proud to have been chosen to receive this honor.

Caffeine Anyone? - The Winner!

2008-11-01T07:49:00.001-07:00

Thanks to everyone who participated in my Bloggy Giveaway!! A winner has been selected.

Congratulations to Jean, not a blog writer but definitely a blog reader!

Email me your address Jean and I'll get that $20 Starbucks giftcard in the mail to you on Monday. You'll be enjoying a Chai Tea or Latte in no time. Hope you stop by and see me again soon.

It's Always a Production

Thanksgiving 2011

Lisa Leonard Giveaway!

18/360 - an anniversary

17/360 -Thematic Photographic 132: Curves

16/360 - Nine!

15/360 - Blue

14/360

13/360

12/360

11/360

10/360

9/360

8/360

7/360

3/360 - 6/360

2/360

1/360

Hope and Expectations

Come to the Manger

Photo Hunters - Curve(d)

Photo Hunters - Curve(d)

Photo Hunters - Technology

Photo Hunters - Technology

Thematic Photographic 74

Photo Hunters - Bird(s)

Photo Hunters - Bird(s)

A Miracle of the Heart

Thematic Photographic - Leaves Two

Thematic Photographic - Leaves

Photo Hunters - Bags

Photo Hunters - Bags

Skywatch

Photo Hunters - Sports

Photo Hunters - Sports

Photo Hunters - Twisted

Photo Hunters - Twisted

Photo Hunters - Upside Down

Photo Hunters - Upside Down

Photo Hunters - Orange

Photo Hunters - Orange

20 years

Thematic Photographic - Laundry

Photo Hunters - Entertainment

Photo Hunters - Entertainment

Photo Hunters - Utensil(s)

Photo Hunters - Utensil(s)

Photo Hunters - Garbage

Photo Hunters - Garbage

Thematic Photographic - Cloudy

Thematic Photographic - Dusk

Photo Hunters - Book(s)

Photo Hunters - Book(s)

Some Gave All

thank you

Photo Hunters - Plastic

Photo Hunters - Plastic

Thematic Photographic - Human

Photo Hunters - Painted

Photo Hunters - Painted

Skywatch

SunsetSilver City, New Mexico

What I want for Mother's Day

What I Really Want for Mother's Day

adapted by the song, Grown-up Christmas List by David Foster (music) and Linda Thompson-Jenner

No more lives torn apartThat wars would never startAnd time would heal all heartsand everyone would have a friendAnd right would always winAnd love would never end

Photo Hunters - In Memory

Photo Hunters - In Memory

Masonic CemeterySilver City, New MexicoMarch 2009

Photo Hunters - Walking

Photo Hunters - Walking

A Ring

Photo Hunters - Protect(ion)

Photo Hunters - Protect(ion)

Photo Hunters - Purple

Photo Hunters - Purple

Thematic Photographic - Edible

The Sacrific Lamb

THE SACRIFICE LAMB

Photo Hunters - Triangle

Sunset
Silver City, New Mexico

No more lives torn apart
That wars would never start
And time would heal all hearts
and everyone would have a friend
And right would always win
And love would never end

Masonic Cemetery
Silver City, New Mexico
March 2009

My mom was laid to rest here, almost 6 years ago.
Silver City, New Mexico

Are you willing to believe that love is the strongest thing in the world - stronger than hate, stronger than evil, stronger than death - and that the blessed life which began in Bethlehem nineteen hundred years ago is the image and brightness of the Eternal Love?
Then you can keep Christmas.