Passion & Pursenality Art and Design

A Friendly Reminder, Folks...

2012-02-14T09:31:00.001-06:00

Back up your files regularly!

I apologize for my absence.

My computer has a virus.

In attempting to get rid of said virus,

I ruined my computer even more.

It doesn't even start...

BLAH!

I think God might be teaching me something.

I might spend too much time on my computer.

But, it's hard when the things you do to bring in the money

have to be done on the computer.

Dropping off my computer today for someone else to deal with.

I will try and update using other computers,

but it will probably be slow here for a while.

I am THANKFUL for technology. I am Thankful for technology. I am thankful for technology.

I am thankful especially today for a little white USB hard drive that has

all of my files

and all of my pictures

and all of my videos

Of Gwen's life thus far

saved.

BACK UP YOUR FILES!

Pet Peeves

2012-02-09T11:30:00.000-06:00

One of my pet peeves is when people don't remove holiday decorations in a timely manner. I guess this year, I shouldn't talk. I love leaving up Christmas cards all year, but I think simply erasing the Merry Christmas is in order.

Date Night

2012-02-08T11:30:00.000-06:00

Our friends the Stoop Singers invited us to an event that they were playing for in Stockholm, WI, population 66.

Shane and Jess are the Stoop Singers. The pretty lady who looks as if she is singing is not with the band, and she's not singin'. She's callin'.

Square dance callin'!

Update

2012-02-07T12:00:00.000-06:00

I just updated my photo information; just thought I would share. Contact me for any photography needs!

Mommy Monday -- Can't Live Without...

2012-02-06T21:24:00.000-06:00

When your baby is just starting to get the idea of feeding herself and maybe 20% of the food actually gets in her mouth, THIS is the Best. Thing. Ever. Our dog, however, is not a fan. He much preferred when the food was falling all over the floor.

When you are out and about and have no more room in your wet bag for that stinky cloth diaper (or even a stinky disposable diaper), these work GREAT! Our dog, Trooper is a fan of these too.

Friday Photo Dump

2012-02-03T13:32:00.003-06:00

There's nothin' like a good snow roll.

Baking with Mamma in the kitchen.

Winter Fun!

2012-02-01T11:00:00.000-06:00

I'm not Winter's biggest fan. Trodding through snow is tiring and well, cold. I hate the feeling of being cold. I never complain of the summer heat, not even on 100 degree 99% humidity days.

But over the weekend, something changed my heart a little...

Oh man! She's stinkin' cute!!!

I love that little tongue sticking out.

I might have to like Winter now.

And who knew? Trooper is a sled dog.

It's Been a Long Time!

2012-01-31T11:30:00.000-06:00

I've been taking LOTS of pictures, but I haven't been scrapping them. I am thankful for Digital Scrapper, because for each video tutorial I create, I need a layout to go with it. That's about all the scrapping I've done since Gwenyth was born.

Here are a few layouts:

Digital Scrapper Premier membership kit: Recollections by Joanne Brisbois

Digital Scrapper Premier membership kit: Off We Go by Susie Bartollini

Digital Scrapper Premier membership kit: Me Personally by Taylor Made

Digital Scrapper Premier membership kit: Lights by Julie Billingsly

Digital Scrapper Premier membership kit: Under the Pier by Kellie Mize

Simplify Sunday

2012-01-29T08:53:00.000-06:00

This was all Mike! He spent almost two full days simplifying his music closet. I am proud of him. He got rid of a HUGE game he made which had lots of sentimental value.

oh my...can't really see the floor

This was actually clean. I usually couldn't get in the freezer; drove me NUTS!

ooooooo! ahhhhhh!

Mike wanted me to point out that the bins are mine. They hold memorabelia. Going thru them is one of my simplification goals.


Look at all the space!


This is the game he got rid of. Mike made all this! He started in high school, maybe even middle school. It was actually out of rebellion; his parents wouldn't let him get a video game. If my kids rebel like this, I will be so proud! He's so creative.

I Always Love a Good Bookmark

2012-01-26T10:00:00.000-06:00

Again...inspired by Pinterest, these are my newest crafting addiction. They are simple and offer pretty instant gratification. Guess what all my friends are getting for Valentine's day!

No Heat Curls -- The Sock Bun Method

2012-01-25T11:00:00.000-06:00

Found THIS on Pinterest...

If you've been around me, you have probably heard me complain about how much I miss my long hair. I don't really regret cutting it. The shedding after Gwen was born was out of control. All that beautiful, healthy pregnancy hair fell out all over the house. YUCK!

I have been looking for a way to give my current hairstyle some bounce/body...some style WITHOUT the curling iron or hot rollers. I just don't want to take that time; I'd rather sleep : )

Of course, I knew that this method is really for people with lovely long locks, but I figured out how to make it work.

1. Use a baby sock -- Convenient as I have a baby in the house.
2. For the hair that doesn't fit in the pony tail, you have a do a few pin curls.
<------- Those are pin curls. I end up doing 5 pin curls.

I have got this down to a less than 5 minute process before bed and then, I wake up with curls!

Take a Look -- What you get with the January Digital Scrapper Premier Membership.

2012-01-24T12:31:00.001-06:00

Mommy Monday

2012-01-23T14:40:00.001-06:00

Most nights before I put Gwenyth down in her crib for the night, I read to her from this book:

I think the writers do an excellent job with the stories. They are realistic; not candy coated, but in language that is suitable for youngsters.

But the real reason I LOVE it so much is the illustrations by Fausto Bianchi.

AH-MAZE-ING!!!!!

Every illustration is full of detail and color that is just the right mix of realism and imagination. I love line art and do a lot of line art myself. The spirals of the hair, the lines of the drapery are so beautiful.

His illustrations INSPIRE me immensely.

If you click Here, you can see some of the beautiful work from the book.

Friday Photo Dump

2012-01-20T16:02:00.001-06:00

She loves socks, but not a "dummy" sock. It HAS to be one she pulled off her feet.

Some Resources for You

2012-01-18T21:38:00.000-06:00

I shared earlier that meal planning is my New Year's resolution. This week, I have taken it one step further: Cleaner Eating.

Clean Eating has different definitions to different people. For me, clean eating means no processed foods. Especially no sugar or white flour. I am not trying veagan or even vegitarian, but I am making sure I know where my meat comes from. I'm not giving up dairy, but am trying to keep it to a minimum and switching to whole, unpasturized milk; it's easier for you body to process that than even skim milk.

I am prepared for people to ask me "why?" Specifically making the comment that I don't need to lose weight. Weight has nothing to do with this decision. It is all about health. You see, I am a sugar addict. I love sweets, and if I have one I will have five.

I was on insulin for gestational diabetes when I was pregnant. After I had Gwen, I went CARB CRAZY. The day after she was born, I had a huge plate of pancakes for breakfast and it's been downhill ever since.

Now I find myself feeling toxic. I feel unhealthy, really REALLY low energy. My insides feel out of balance.

I am realistic. I am calling this resolution cleanER eating. There will be times when clean eating might not be possible. I refuse to be the "upidy" one who refuses a home cooked meal, because I "can't eat that."

All this to share with you a couple of great, encouraging sites that have been helping me with this endeavour.

The Gracious Pantry
The Joy of Clean Eating
100 days of Real Food

Mommy Monday

2012-01-17T14:01:00.000-06:00

She is eight months old this week...and getting cuter every day.
She's all about clapping these days.

Simplify Sunday

2012-01-15T16:56:00.002-06:00

What do you do with all those recipes...you know the stray ones that aren't in a book? The ones you just print off the internet or copy from a friend.

I had dreams of copying them all onto cute recipe cards and storing them in a fabulous hand made box.

Then, my collection of recipes suddenly (*lie--over the years of "I'll get to that later"*) became this:

I have let go of the dream, because the idea of hours upon hours of handwriting or re-printing is stopping me from using these recipes.

So: TA DA!

Binder, page protectors, post-it notes.

Not real fancy, but very functional.

It took 20 minutes.

Friday Photo Dump -- on Saturday.

2012-01-14T11:22:00.004-06:00

Little stinker...rolls her way under the tree, grabs an ornament and rolls back to the blanket.

Her favorite part of her princess tent is the string Daddy hung from the top. Strings and socks are her favorite toys right now.

Everyone together now, "awww..."

Yea...my hubby is the BEST!

The Theater, The Theater...

2012-01-12T22:15:00.001-06:00

I do love the theater...SO much!

For Christmas this year, G-ma and G-pa and Mike and I bought my nieces tickets to see the Lion King today.It's the second time I have seen it, and the second time was just as magical as the first. If you haven't seen this show...even if Disney isn't your taste (Lion King, the movie, is at the bottom of my favorites), this show is AH-MAY-ZING.

I have been to many stage shows. I love Broadway. I feel close to God when I am watching a great show. I know that might seem extreme to some people, but how else can the creativity and talent be explained?! I am pretty sure I have cried at every Broadway show I've been to. Not necessarily because of the story line, but simply because of the BEAUTY of the music, the voices, the dancing, the costumes, the scenery. I feel blessed that these people are sharing their talent with those of us in the audience. It is awe inspiring.

Wedding Sneak Peek -- Chippewa Falls, WI, Wedding Photographer

2012-01-10T23:34:00.001-06:00

Words can't describe the beauty of the day. I can't wait to show off more...

Why yes...her dress is pink. LOVE!

(Doggie) Mommy Monday

2012-01-09T21:17:00.001-06:00

I love that Gwen is at the age right now that she doesn't get into "trouble." However, I still have a mischief maker in the house. He sure can make Momma mad sometimes (but yet, notice...I just sit and video tape it instead of stopping it).

Friday Photo Dump

2012-01-06T09:00:00.000-06:00

First Christmas Stocking

Mike's cookie decorating.

My cookie decorating.

Oscar M. Wiener.

Getting sleepy on Christmas Eve.

Little reindeer feeties.

Not that she didn't like the gifts, but she LOVED the wrapping paper.

She rolly-pollied her way around the room, wrapping herself in ribbon.

Why yes, that is a cotton candy machine. AND it makes really good cotton candy.

Engaged!-- Eau Claire, WI, wedding photographer

2012-01-05T10:00:00.000-06:00

Looking forward to your wedding! It's up in my home territory...

WHY Didn't I Do this Sooner?!

2012-01-03T11:30:00.003-06:00

I would just like to share that for the first time, I did my grocery shopping on-line. In about four hours, I will just drive-up to the pick up and my groceries will be loaded up for me. They take my payment at the window. I won't even have to get out of my car.

How much? SIX BUCKS...SIX. Seriously. I never looked at this option because I thought it would be too expensive.

I GUARANTEE we spend over six bucks on impulse buys when we actually go to the grocery store. Doing this, I completely stuck to my list that I made from my menu plan (menu planning is pretty much my New Year's resolution).

Six bucks... To shop from my home. For time saved. To not have to carry Gwen into the store. To not buy stuff we don't need.

Brilliant!

I love you Mega Foods.

Oops.

2012-01-02T19:54:00.000-06:00

I forgot these were actually animated. Too fun not to post...

Mommy Monday

2012-01-02T10:00:00.000-06:00

Seven Months Old...going on eight.

Simplify Sunday

2012-01-01T10:00:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year! I love the New Year. It means new starts, new beginnings. It's the perfect time to commit to organizing and simplifying ; )

I would love you to join me on this adventure. If you have done any organizing/simplifying, please share it with me in the comments.

SO...

We had our food spread through out the kitchen. I used to think it was a good idea to keep the "snacks" up high in hopes I would eat less, because they weren't convenient to get. Yea...that was a fail.

I was proud that the organizer didn't have to touch the microwave stand. That's where I keep baking things like flour, sugar, baking powder and soda, cake mixes etc.

Across the room, is another little closet. It had cereals on the top shelves, RANDOM stuff (computer case, dog grooming kit, water jug, my ballet shoes??, and some misc. stuff that we needed to return to people).

Now that closet holds all of my bake ware and cake/cupcake displays. I love that I can put all the pans in like books instead of stacking. Brilliant! Believe it or not, I got rid of some cake pans. I kept two rectangular and the basic set of rounds. The organizer questioned me keeping so many, but I legitimately use them. I LOVE to bake and decorate cakes.

So now, all the food is in one area of the kitchen. Woo hoo!

Notice the bins to hold vitamins and packages of nuts and berries. I usually needed the step stool in order to search for the right package. Now, I can just pull down the bin (with out the stool).

We now keep the reserve food right above these cupboards instead of above the fridge.

Happy Holidays!

2011-12-27T12:52:00.001-06:00

I am going to take a blogging break this week in order to re-charge.

I am SO excited for the new year!

Simplify Sunday

2011-12-25T09:00:00.000-06:00

These were two drawers full of stuff. You know...the kind of full that when you are in a hurry, something catches at the top so you can't get it open type of full.

NOT ANY MORE, BABY!

Got rid of: 6 spatulas, 2 cork screws, a worthless plastic cheese grater.

We used to have all of our grilling utensils in here too. Those are now out in the porch closet with the rest of our outdoor cook and dinner ware.

Got rid of: SEVERAL broken or duplicate measuring spoons and cups.

Moved chords for the popcorn maker and the griddle to be with the proper appliance.

For some reason I used the think my baking drawer was a good spot for canning lids/tops. Now they are in our basement storage area with the canning jars. I can't believe the space those all those little lids took up.

This was our "junk" drawer. It had all the packaging/wraps for the kitchen plus other stuff we just didn't know where to put.

We put the gum in with our candy/sweets container which sits on the counter.

We had LOTS of stuff for the dogs: medicine, toothbrush and paste, anti-gas tablets (if you've never experienced the gas of a Lab before, I pray you never do), etc. Now that is in the front porch closet with all the other dog stuff.

We did go against the advice of "put like stuff" together (and never have a junk drawer), because the screwdriver and measuring tape are something that we need often and that's just really more convenient than going down to the basement where the tools are. Lazy...I know.

We also kept batteries in here which are now stored with light bulbs and other "replaceable" things in the porch closet.

How's it going? Are you organizing/simplifying?

I plan to do some over the Holiday "break."

OH! and MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

Friday Photo Dump

2011-12-23T09:30:00.000-06:00

This is a little game we like to call Bomb the Baby.

Experiment with a new photography technique.

She likes the blanket on her face when she is falling asleep. It's so stinkin' cute.

My husband prepping for an EPIC game night.

Play date with a new friend.

The Stockings Were Hung

2011-12-22T12:13:00.000-06:00

With the help of THIS tutorial, I made our stockings this week. I am excited to stuff Gwen's : )

Two Years Old

2011-12-21T11:41:00.000-06:00

Seriously? She's two? I remember taking her newborn pictures yesterday.

Mommy Monday

2011-12-20T00:50:00.000-06:00

It's all about the tongue clicking here at the Rambo house.

Excuse My Mess

2011-12-16T00:50:00.000-06:00

Doing some changes...obviously. So excuse the transitions.

I'm excited about where the look is headed : )

A Vow -- To Not Just Browse on Pinterest.

2011-12-14T15:10:00.000-06:00

So many of my friends and people that I follow on other blogs are on Pinterest. I have purposely avoided checking it out. I knew it would be a time sucker. I know my weakness for gathering ideas and gathering ideas and gathering ideas. On one hand, it's exciting to be inspired, but I often actually get depressed. I come to a point of realization that after many hours of internet browsing, I could have gotten so much done!

In the last few weeks, a few very close friends have told me how much they love Pinterest and one actually took me to her boards. Needless to say, I got really excited.

As I was logging in to my new account I made a vow that I shall NOT waste time on Pinterest. It will be a "reward." AND... and... I will put into action the ideas that I find there.

So, these are the first two things that I have done that were inspired from Pinterest.

Pinterest came in very handy when I was trying to come up with a unique wedding shower gift for a friend. I stalked her pinterest boards and saw what kinds of things she liked. How cool is that? She had a couple pictures of initials on there. One was made of buttons and one of vintage jewelry. This is my spin.

I have a wreath like this on my boards. It had rhinestones instead of pearls and a feather flower. I wanted something wintery so, I crocheted the snowflake. I like that it can stay up all winter, not just for Christmas. In fact, I might add some hearts around Valentine's day.

So, if you haven't been on Pinterest yet, I recommend it. It really is quite nice to have all these ideas in ONE spot. Plus, the categories make it all very organized. Just be warned, it can suck your time so, take the vow.

Mommy Monday-- I will miss...

2011-12-12T22:10:00.005-06:00

I will miss these jammies SO much! They were my favorite on you. They don't fit anymore, because you are growing SO fast.

Simplify Sunday

2011-12-11T00:02:00.001-06:00

The organizer helped us evaluate what we use often and what we use occasionally. The difference between often and occasional is a great thing to keep in mind when organizing.

We only keep four place settings of dishes with in reach. When we have company, it's easy to bring out the step stool. Now...I do dishes more often and the dirty dishes get WAY less overwhelming (we don't have a dishwasher). Keeping things minimal, keeps the kitchen cleaner.

We really evaluated mugs. The organizer said she only has one for her and one for her husband easily accessible. I have to admit though, I like a good mug. A few of them had sentimental value. In the end, we consolidated to our 8 "place setting" mugs and four "extra" favorite mugs. I also couldn't part with the stack of hand made ceramic bowls. They were gifts from dear friends.

We did part with SEVERAL water bottles. Ugh. Water bottles were once quite the rage as "freebies" from places. We kept two water bottles and two "to go" coffee thermos cups. The water bottles and to go cups used to take up an entire shelf.

We had lots of stem ware too. Consolidated to 8.

Where the extra dishes are now used to be filled with disposable dishware. We hardly ever use that and when we do, it's mostly for summer cook outs. So, it was all put into a storage bin and put in our porch closet.

Keep organizing! Let me know if you've done any lately?

Friday Photo Dump

2011-12-09T12:48:00.001-06:00

Chocolate dog on a chocolate couch.

It's empty. She was VERY attached to the mug this day.

I love the tongue.

It's Christmas Time

2011-12-07T17:43:00.001-06:00

It's Gwenny's First Christmas!

This shelf which is usually full of decorations and pictures becomes the Nativity wall.

I think this is my favorite arrangement yet. He changes it every year...unlike me, I set mine up the same every time.


This is Mike's ~~artillery~~ nativity set. It's made of Olive tree wood...which makes it way more Holy than my Willow Tree or Precious Moments nativities. He always says "Precious Moments" in a very mocking tone. He's just jealous, because that one is so special that it goes in our bedroom : )

They had Giraffes at the stable, right?

So pretty!

Mommy Monday

2011-12-05T16:22:00.001-06:00

My baby's first Thanksgiving.

She loved the squash and the mashed potatoes with gravy : )

This is My House!

2011-12-03T10:53:00.001-06:00

Look at all this stuff! I have so many talented friends. Come check it out if your in the area : )

Friday Photo Dump

2011-12-02T11:00:00.000-06:00

I love bokeh. If you don't know what that is...Google it.

My dad...he's an expert roller.

There is NOTHING like lefse fresh off the grill.

This is a new position to "trick" her into falling asleep. If we cradle her, she seems to know that means sleepy time and she'll fight it with all her might.

Priceless...

2011-12-01T14:22:00.001-06:00

My friend Julia gave me permission to share this with all of you. We did a family photo session a couple of weeks ago.

Apparently, when she was about to hang up her family portrait print, she did a double take noticing the picture from her childhood.

How funny is that? I love it.

Check it Out!

2011-11-30T10:00:00.000-06:00

I apologize in advanced for the pictures. I edited the pixels before I cropped...blah blah blah. I just too busy to fix it!

All of these things and SO MUCH MORE...available for purchase this weekend.

12/3 from 9-3

12/4 from 12-3

2409 5th street

Eau Claire, WI

Me and six other artists

Mommy Monday...on a Tuesday

2011-11-29T15:43:00.001-06:00

I had the camera yesterday and got some cute pics with Mike and Gwen. It dawned on me that I don't get many pictures taken WITH my daughter. So, Mike took some for me.
It makes me happy.

Simplify Sunday!

2011-11-27T13:45:00.001-06:00

If you want to know the origin of Simplify Sunday, click HERE.

Did you do any organizing? Did you get rid of anything?

So. Here is my new spice drawer!

I have always wanted a nice spice rack with matching containers. But, that requires money. I'm just not willing to spend my money on new spice containers. I'd rather spend it on yarn...or...food.

I used to have my spices on a tiny spinning rack in one of the upper cupboards. I would have to use the step ladder to access my spices. Plus, not all of the spices fit on that tiny rack so, they were randomly put in the space around the spice rack.

When the organizer brought them all down, we found several duplicates of spices, because a bunch had fallen behind the spice rack. I thought we were out, so I bought more : )

This was just all so silly!

Who'd a thunk? A spice drawer. Right by the stove...where we cook.

ORGANIZED: spices

GOT RID OF: spice rack

Thankful

2011-11-23T18:22:00.001-06:00

for:

grace bestowed upon me EVERYDAY

my handsome, loving, hard-working, fun, patient, forgiving, husband who is a wonderful partner and father

my HEALTHY, precious, content, CUTE, cuddly, happy, baby girl.

SERIOUSLY. God knew what I could handle and gave me Gwenyth

my amazing, supportive family

my home

food

water

clothing

*we have SO much*

the opportunity to make money as a free lancer

the ability to BE HOME

my doggies : )

lefse

rice pudding...with butter and cinnamon

our cars

t.v. -- Shallow, I know

laundry

laundry machines

HOT baths

books

my camera equipment

my vacuum

Savers thrift store

coffee

the internet

Boggle -- Gosh! I love that game

my pillows

sweet treats

frienships

my church

my life!

Mommy Monday--Poop Squeaks

2011-11-21T20:13:00.001-06:00

Welcome to the first SIMPLIFY SUNDAY!

2011-11-20T10:00:00.000-06:00

A few weeks ago, I teased you with a post about a life changing visitor. A dear friend of mine bought me a gift certificate for an hour with a professional organizer. I mean to do it before Gwen, but that didn't happen.

This woman is a genius. Now, I am rather proud of my organizing skills, but I just had the worst time with my kitchen. It was so amazing to have a different perspective and everything just made sense!

Since I started real estate photography, I have been inspired not just by architecture and decorating, but by SIMPLICITY. Houses that are up for sale are often "staged." There is just enough out to look homey, but it's easy to see the potential of your stuff in there.

We have so much stuff. We have so much stuff that we put stuff in storage and forget about it. We have so much stuff and often multiples of stuff. The organizer pulled out 8 spatulas. EIGHT. Who needs 8 spatulas? We ended up with 2. One for cooking and a nice silver one for serving.

The spatulas have inspired me to simplify; to minimalize.

It's overwhelming, yes. But, if we do it in small steps, it can get done. Fifteen minutes a day, or 15 minutes a week. It's worth it. The feeling of weight lifted. Living simple. I am ready!

Are you?

Will you take the challenge with me? Let's do it together. Drawer by drawer, room by room. It might take years, but let's get it done.

This is my dining room closet. It USED to be filled with kitchen stuff...trays, crock pot, roaster, cake carrier, and more. Now it is truly our cleaning/utility closet and we can actually hang coats and put hats and scarves and such on the top shelf!


This is a rolling counter that is also in our dining room. It was filled with kettles, and a griddle as well as the mixer. Now, it's just the mixer-- and that's only because it is TOO TALL for any of the lower cupboards in the kitchen, and I don't really want to have to carry this thing over my head : )

All the kitchen stuff is now actually in the kitchen!

Conquer something this week and let me know what you did. It doesn't need to be big.

News Flash! This just in...

2011-11-18T12:04:00.001-06:00

This includes me! There is going to be so many great things...

Style to the Mile -- Eau Claire, WI, Family Photographer

2011-11-18T09:00:00.000-06:00

I love fashion. You wouldn't always know it, 'cause I do like my jeans and a t-shirt. So, I love photographing families when they get all coordinated with their clothing. I especially admire the fashion sense of this family. I wanted to own every outfit she wore and her little man... ugh! Words can't describe the handsomeness.

Gosh, I love me some good sun flare.

Mommy Monday--for real this time

2011-11-16T21:28:00.001-06:00

She was in much better mood yesterday for pictures : )

6 months...seriously.

Mommy Monday

2011-11-14T18:19:00.001-06:00

My babe is 6 months old today.

She was NOT in the mood for taking pictures...

We'll try again tomorrow.

It's Friday...

2011-11-11T15:03:00.001-06:00

... and I didn't really post all week. I'm sorry for the silence. We are on the mend here though. I was DREADING the first "sickness" with Gwen. It was minor; breaking me in gently I think.

Happy Weekend!

Mommy Monday- blahs

2011-11-07T20:40:00.001-06:00

Baby sick, Mommy sick...blah
Thankful today for Grandma and Grandpa who babysit AND cook an amazing dinner.

Friday Photo Dump

2011-11-04T09:53:00.000-05:00

Our pre-rinse cycle.


Sleepy little alien.


Mommy's bottle and Gwenny's bottle.

Halloween Fun

2011-11-02T10:00:00.000-05:00

My little alien.


Alien with her Mother ship : )

What did you dress up as?

Cute Overload...

2011-11-01T10:00:00.000-05:00

Oh man! I could hardly handle the cuteness...seriously...

Mommy Monday -- I will miss...

2011-10-31T08:42:00.002-05:00

Oh little one. I loved your old man hair...especially when it got bed head messy. Now, your hair is filling in, but I am excited to put it in a pony tail someday.

Friday Photo Dump

2011-10-28T00:00:00.000-05:00

Building up inventory for my first craft fair next Saturday!

My little Punkin (yes...punkin). Cute hat made by Grandma.

My new bag from Thirty-one. LOVE!

Fall Produce. Gwen likes squash : )

Her hair has thickened up so much in the last week.

Oh Man!

2011-10-26T18:56:00.003-05:00

I had a special visitor today. She was kind of awesome. I can't wait to tell you more, but you'll have to wait for a bit : )

LIFE CHANGING potential here; I'm tellin' ya.

Actor/Model Headshots - Eau Claire, WI, Portrait Photographer

2011-10-25T10:00:00.000-05:00

Yea...he'll be famous one day. In fact, he's shooting a movie right now. He said when he's rich, he'll pay for Gwen's college education. I should maybe get that in writing : )

Mommy Monday--5 months old

2011-10-24T10:00:00.000-05:00

...Actually going on six!!

We've been having lots of naked time, trying to fight off a diaper rash. I had to get some "naky" pictures.

Friday Photo Dump

2011-10-21T12:30:00.000-05:00

my cousin...rockin' twins in that cute belly

holding her head up so high

trooper has had to get used to new things invading his environment

that's me...i miss mt long hair...

Cake

2011-10-20T14:08:00.000-05:00

M for Melissa, J for John, B for baby boy, G for baby girl, (yup...one of each!), and K for Kleven. Congrats John and Melissa. Love you lots and can't wait to meet these two.

I made this cake for Melissa's shower. I LOVE baking and decorating. I was so excited to make this cake, I couldn't sleep thinking about the design : )

Sisters

2011-10-19T10:30:00.000-05:00

These two are incredibly ADORBS! Plus, I am really excited that Gwen will have a playmate : ) Congrats John and Julia, your TWO girls are beautiful.

Big Changes!

2011-10-18T12:00:00.000-05:00

Okay. So, my original plan was to take "three months" after Gwen was born to re-group, re-prioritize, and re-think my business. Five months later...I am feeling a bit more settled.

When I was teaching full time, Passion & Pursenality Art and Design was a hobby. Now, it is truly my part time job, income making, small business. In order to move away from the hobby aspect, I really needed to determine what I was passionate about and what I could focus on to bring in a bit of income.

Major change number 1: I am no longer designing scrapbook kits.
I found myself always putting this at the bottom of my list. I was tired of the marketing to several different sites, tired of spending time in scrapbook forums and galleries so that people would not forget me. I felt like there was TOO much time being wasted when I could be making stuff and more importantly, spending time with Gwen. This industry is HUGE-O-MUNGOUS. There are more than enough kits out there.

I was not ready to give it up completely though...I still love Photo shop. I still love making digital "things." So, I was incredibly happy and honored to be hired by Scrapper's Guide.

Major change number 2: I am a tutorial instructor for Scrappers' Guide.
I can't even tell you what a blessing this job is. I am a teacher at heart and now, I get to teach people how to make stuff in one of my favorite programs in the universe. If you want to learn anything and everything about digital scrap booking, you need to join this site. The resources that you receive access to are priceless.

I love that I am still part of the digital scrap booking world, but I only have to worry about instructing, not designing. Plus, I can just call this site's forums/galleries home.

Major change number 3: I am doing Real Estate photography for Obeo.com
This was such ~~a fluke~~ an act of God! A friend of mine applied for this job over a year ago and never heard anything back. In June, they called him asking if he was still interested. He couldn't do it, because he and his wife were moving to CA in just a few weeks. So, he gave them my name.

I love this job! It gets me out of the house and I get to go in people's houses?! Seriously. A couple weeks ago, I shot a 2 million dollar home. TWO MILLION DOLLARS...around these parts that gets you an awful lot.

Here is one of the more recent places, just to give you an idea of what I get to do.

Major change number 4: I am concentrating more on creating and crafting.
However, you've maybe noticed my Etsy shop has been empty for a long while. It's because I am building inventory for craft fairs/shows. I helped my sister-in-law out this summer with her booth (she sells some awesome jewelry) and I found that I love the atmosphere of being around other artists/crafters. I love the interactions with customers...even when they don't buy stuff, they are highly supportive and complimentary. PLUS, they often give me more ideas for projects to make.

Once, the craft sales during the "holiday" season slow down, hopefully I will get my Etsy shop up and running again.

So, with all these changes, you will start to notice some changes around here...my blog, I mean. You'll have to excuse my mess for a while.

Thanks so much for all of your love and support! It means the world to me.

Mommy Monday

2011-10-17T15:03:00.001-05:00

This is what happens when you let Daddy feed baby girl her first bowl of rice cereal...

He wanted to make sure she didn't feel left out.

Friday Photo Dump

2011-10-14T12:48:00.000-05:00

Headshots-- Eau Claire, Children's Photographer

2011-10-12T12:07:00.000-05:00

Oh man! This kid is cute and he knows how to work a camera. I could have kept snapping for hours and I think so could he!

Mommy Monday-- I will miss...

2011-10-10T12:46:00.001-05:00

Oh Gwenny Penny. I try to soak you in as much as I can, because you are growing SO fast. I try to capture all of your "cuteness" and quirks, because they will soon change into "big girl" behaviors.

I will miss...how you shoved your hands up underneath your bottle. Sometimes so much that you shoved the bottle out of your mouth. Now, you hold your bottle. Sometimes, you can even hold it all by yourself.

MRP

2011-10-07T16:28:00.002-05:00

We refer to this one as the epic shot.

My husband is a musician...a really good one. Check out his stuff HERE. I have been helping him with some branding and promotional photography.

Speaking of Seasons

2011-10-05T12:00:00.000-05:00

It's officially Fall now and though the weather is BEAUTIFUL here this week--like summer temps beautiful, there have been nights of frost. Thankfully, I didn't kill the plants on my screen porch this year like I have all the year's past.

...Because they're fake-- ahem-- I mean Faux. Same look, none of the care. I love my fake plants.

What do you love of yours that is Fake?

Here's to Starting to Catch Up!

2011-10-04T17:50:00.001-05:00

I have named October as Blog re-commitment month. Actually not just my blog, but my business in general. There have been many changes for me since baby arrived and I am so excited to finally share them!

So, look forward to regular posting: lots of photography, lots of mommy stuff, lots of crafty goodness (which will include fun DIY projects), lots of vintage, fashion and ramblings. I am READY for a new chapter in Passion & Pursenality Art and Design.

I love new seasons and new beginnings.

Mommy Monday

2011-10-02T23:52:00.003-05:00

Our new favorite thing:

BLOCKS!

Mommy Monday

2011-09-13T21:13:00.000-05:00

Late again...I keep saying to myself that this week is the week I am going to catch up on my blogging. I have so much to share. I just need to find the time...

Anyway. On Sunday, we dedicated Gwen to the Lord. It was a beautiful day with family.

The dress she is wearing was made for me back in 1978 by my Great Aunt Joy. Unfortunately, the mail was a bit slow, and it didn't get there in time for me to wear. So, I was excited that it fit Gwen perfectly.

Mommy Monday

2011-09-05T18:27:00.001-05:00

Here's my baby. I am soaking up all the cuddle time that I possibly can, because she is growing so stinkin' fast! She is so smiley, but still not really laughing/giggling...that only happens on occasion. She is holding her bottle on her own if it's down to 2 ounces or so, and if she's not almost sleeping ; )

Mommy Monday

2011-08-23T17:58:00.001-05:00

2011-08-23T14:38:00.001-05:00

Oh my GOODNESS! I am still here...just really stinkin' busy. Can't wait to share the things I have been working on.

I am sure you all are trying to squeeze every last bit of summer out of this season just like us!

Mommt Monday--3 Months Old!

2011-08-15T05:57:00.001-05:00

Seriously? How can this be? She was just born yesterday.

Not gonna lie, I started Photoshopping the drool, but I stopped and reverted to the original file. That's just the stage she's at, and I accept it: fingers in the mouth, chin covered in drool. Amen.

Class of 2012-Senior Portrait Photographer, Chippewa Falls, WI

2011-08-10T14:03:00.001-05:00

A fun Photo shoot in a Fab location (Irvine Park). Whenever I needed her to smile, I just asked her to look at her mom and they would both break out in a giggle. Too cute!

Mommy (bird) Monday

2011-08-08T23:10:00.003-05:00

So, my dad found this place. He's been telling me about it all spring and summer. A few weeks ago, I was finally able to go see it for myself. I never knew places like this existed. I assumed birds just made nests where ever. Great Blue Herons, though, I think they believe that it takes a community...

You can click on these pictures to see the big versions.

This is only a TINY section of the Rookery. There must be 20 nests total. I think my dad said he once counted more than 50 birds at one time.

It feels like another world. I felt I had stepped back in time...pre-historic...because they kind of remind me of Terradactals. How the heck do you spell that?

The babies are getting very big. Many nests are empty because all the babies flew the coup.

You can do it! Just jump!!

These three were just hangin' out...

Then, Mom came with some food.

I've never heard such a ruckuss. They were very excited...

They seem a bit demanding. Do you ever feel that way, moms? : )

She's all like, "enough of this..."

And they're all like, "aww, man..."

What are they saying to each other? Give me your best quote in the comments section!

My Favorite...

2011-08-05T08:48:00.009-05:00

So...sometimes, our photo shoots go like this:

But, a snack and a nap later...they go more like this:

Her hands are tucked up under her chin MOST of the time. This week, they are starting to be in her mouth a lot. She much prefers her hands to any teething toys.

Brian and Amy-- Wedding Photographer, New Auburn, WI

2011-08-03T11:52:00.001-05:00

Such a BEAUTIFUL wedding! Thank you Brian and Amy for letting me capture your special day.

Her eyes are not enhanced and her skin is not airbrushed; she is just THAT BEAUTIFUL!

This is my favorite shot of the whole day. Such a special moment.

A Top Ten at Ten Weeks

2011-07-27T22:24:00.001-05:00

Top Ten Cliches that are COMPLETELY and UTTERLY TRUE (in no particular order) about parenthood and babies.

1. They change right before your eyes. I swear to you, while she was napping the other day, her lips got fuller as I was watching.

2. They grow up way too fast. It's been 10 weeks already! She's about 13 pounds. She is getting this little personality. I can tell the difference between her cries, but I'm certain she was just born last week

3. You would do anything for your kids. Yup.

4. Even if your day has been long and tough, one smile from them makes it all worth it. UGH...I love her smile, and today...she laughed...for the first time. She's been working up to it. So far laughing has been more like coughing. Today though...she laughed. It was amazing! I called for Mike to come and see and he BOLTED up the stairs while Trooper took the opportunity to ~~eat~~ devour his cereal, but daddy didn't care, the giggles were worth it.

5. It is an intense love that you don't understand until your a parent. Agreed. I want to catch every moment. I want to meet her every need. I want to teach her everything possible. I read out loud to her...you don't understand...that was something I was NOT looking forward to. I told Mike that would be his job.

6. Baby bottoms ARE incredibly smooth and soft : )

7. You can never have enough burp rags. Good Grief! I think God gave me a spitter-upper so that I would gradually get over my disgust/fear of vomit.

8. You will just know what she needs. I was so worried about how much to feed her, when to feed her, how to comfort her, but I know...I just do.

9. The little girl has Daddy wrapped around her little finger. He is smitten. I LOVE it. My favorite is eavesdropping on the silly songs he sings to her and the goofy noises he makes to see her smile.

10. The bond between Mother and Child is a miracle. I remember so many times holding someone else's baby and not being able to comfort them, but instantly when I handed them back to their mother, the crying stopped. I longed for that someday. It's happened a few times now. She is fussy for someone and I take her and she is almost instantly calmed. It's kind of overwhelming how much she knows that I am her mother. I love it.

The Colman Clan-- Photographer, Eau Claire, WI

2011-07-26T08:18:00.001-05:00

Seriously the sweetest family EVER!

Nine Weeks Old

2011-07-21T22:22:00.002-05:00

Sneak Peek--wedding photographer, New Auburn, WI

2011-07-20T08:01:00.001-05:00

Look for more in the next week or two. This wedding was PERFECT in every way including the weather. The weather was exceptional.

2011-07-18T09:53:00.001-05:00

Seriously...Isn't she cute?!

I am a week behind in posting pictures. Hopefully, I will get another up this week. Look for several sneak peeks at the photo sessions I have had this month. I have been BUSY BUSY BUSY editing photos. I love it! I forget to eat sometimes.

2011-07-09T17:29:00.002-05:00

I'm SO behind on blogging. I'll share why another time. It's exciting stuff!! Here is Gwenny Penny last week.

Mommy Monday--Top Ten List

2011-06-27T18:21:00.000-05:00

Top Ten Things I have learned about being a Mommy...In no particular order.

Yup...she's totally pooping in that bottom left photo. It's hard work!

1. Get ready everyday...like get dressed in clothes other than your pajamas. Do you hair and make-up. Keep it simple, but getting ready makes me feel better, more awake, more human.

2. Make the nursery pretty...somewhere where you like to be, because you spend a TON of time there. Here is our nursery.

3. The things taught in The Happiest Baby on the Block work like a charm.

4. No matter how much you think you don't need a swing, because they take up lots of space...they don't take up that much...you need a swing.

5. I would not be sane if not for grandmas and grandpas.

6. You get really good at doing things (like typing for instance) with one hand and picking stuff up with your feet.

7. My baby is the CUTEST baby on the planet.

8. I will never take a shower for granted again...especially if they are long enough to shave my legs

9. A dear friend Phoebe told me "remember...YOU are the mom." You will receive plenty of advice, but how you raise/take care of your baby is up to YOU.

10. All the cliche sayings are completely true. The time flies and they grow too fast.

Mommy Monday...wait...it's Tuesday?

2011-06-21T19:27:00.000-05:00

I love summer! I get my days mixed up. I lose track of time. And what an awesome feeling it is to know that I don't have to go back to school in the fall! The fourth of July is coming fast. Whenever it gets here, I usually get a sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach, because from then on, summer vacation flies by...now, I don't mind : )

Gwen is 5 weeks old and smiling AT us, not just smiling in her semi-sleep state. It is so fun and melts my heart COMPLETELY.

She is kicking her legs like the future Rockette she is going to be.

She is starting to find her voice and tell some "cooing" stories.

Today, I went to the doctor for a check up.

Gettin' real here, people. I had a rocky start to mother hood. I know pretty much every mother gets the baby blues, but when you don't stop crying for two weeks and you are paralyzed by fear, it's time to seek help. I have ALWAYS been anxious. My dear and patient parents can attest to that. I am not ashamed to admit I am on medication for my anxiety. So, I thought for sure that was enough. I was "covered" and wouldn't suffer any type of postpartum mood disorder. Umm...WRONG.

When I get anxious about things, I research. Research is my coping mechanism. So, I found this site. I was reading posts and articles that were describing how I was feeling to a tea. Ugh, the "what ifs!" It was a relief to know that I wasn't crazy. It was a relief to know I was not alone. It was a relief to know that I would/will feel better.

So, about a month later, I am feeling human again. I get up and actually get ready instead of staying in my jammies. I am not crying! I am getting out of the house. I am soaking up every newborn moment, because I know that it doesn't last long and goes way too fast. Best of all, I am not playing the "what if" game every moment of the day. Not gonna lie, it's not all completely gone, but what mom doesn't have a bit of anxiety everyday? When we become mothers, I think we will always worry.

If you are struggling with postpartum feelings of anxiety, depression, OCD, or anything of the sort, don't be afraid to seek help. It's amazing how many don't seek help out of embarrassment or thinking they need to "suck it up" or expecting it to go away on its own.

TALK about it, with your partner, your family, and friends. It's a huge relief and the support will help get you through to the other side.

My Goodness...

2011-06-14T13:11:00.001-05:00

My baby is a month old already...

Mamma (dog) Monday

2011-06-13T20:02:00.000-05:00

So...We have this dog...named Kitty. Weird I know. Kitty is short for Katerina Ivanovanov. She is a 10 pound Pekingese. We got her about 6 years ago. She was 4 years old at the time. She was born and raised in a puppy mill. She was fed sawdust and garbage--so she lost lots of teeth. She wasn't taken care of--needed surgery on her cheeks because the hair was rubbing right on her eyes. The hair rubbing on her eyes for so long, made her blind. All while not being taken care of, she had litter after litter of puppies to be sold.

Kitty and I had an instant connection. She bonded with me as soon as I held her. She is a momma's girl. So, I was VERY worried how she would react to baby. I thought she would be VERY jealous.

Instead...she has become my assistant momma. Her mother instinct has taken over. It is an amazing thing!

Kitty has a comfy bed in our bedroom. She doesn't sleep there any more. She sleeps under the crib in the nursery. She is the first in the room when she hears Gwen start crying. She sits at my feet when I am changing diapers and when I am nursing and rocking. She has now earned the nick name momma dog.

Mommy Monday

2011-06-06T02:16:00.000-05:00

Dynamics of a Family Walk

2011-06-02T14:39:00.000-05:00

I am grateful for a spring baby so, we can be outside and enjoy the weather... I love our Family Walks.

Please forgive my spelling error. I meant "short" not "sbort." Sheesh.

2011-06-01T09:47:00.000-05:00

Quick Mommy Monday

2011-05-30T17:13:00.001-05:00

Another Late Night Mommy Monday

2011-05-23T22:49:00.000-05:00

Yep...that's me...and Gwenyth. The picture is only slightly overexposed. I was really that pale. That was the day that I got a blood transfusion. I'm not the same color as the sheets anymore.

A DELIVERY STORY:

I was scheduled for induction on Friday, May 13.

I was at a friend's house on Thursday evening, May 12.

I was having weird vision issues: blurry, sunspots, half of people's heads missing.

Called doctor.

Doctor wanted me to come in.

Labs all negative.

Vision problems gone.

Me feeling a little stupid, but I don't regret going in.

I'm at the hospital anyway...might as well start the induction.

11:00 p.m. Thursday...insert Foley Bulb (if you don't know what that is...look it up...not pleasant)

Overnight into Friday morning.

Very uncomfortable.

No sleep.

Dilated 4 cm.

Remove Foley bulb, injecting Pitocin.

ALL DAY Friday...mild contractions, not really any pain though.

Walking halls.

Increase Pitocin.

Friday night, 11:00 p.m.

Break water.

Finally some action!

This kind of hurts.

Bring on the Epidural.

More Pitocin.

Still dilated 4 cm.

Saturday morning 2:00 a.m.

Still 4 cm.

Saturday morning 4:00 a.m.

STILL 4 CM.

Wheeled to operating room.

REALLY scared.

I threw up; I NEVER throw up.

It seemed like 25 people were in the room and Mike was not.

Finally Mike comes and talks me through.

He watches Gwenyth come out at 4:30 a.m. Saturday, May 14.

I watch to my left.

She cries.

Mike cuts chord.

Mike brings her to me.

My Gwenyth is here.

Gwenyth...jaundice...phototherapy...not fun.

Mommy, weak tired, lost a lot of blood during surgery.

Gwenyth cleared to go home...mommy not so much.

2 units of blood, a day of rest.

Home... after 6 days of hospital.

Mommas out there...what's your delivery story?

A Late Night Mommy Monday

2011-05-16T22:17:00.000-05:00

She's HERE!

I'm in love.