just bits & pieces

seven

2012-02-07T10:20:00.000-07:00

My toothless boy turns SEVEN today!!!

xoxo charmaine

a quick....

2012-01-23T14:28:00.000-07:00

...hello!

Happy Monday all!

(dreaming of warm days)
xoxo charmaine

2/52

2012-01-15T17:38:00.001-07:00

This week's prompts were Responsibility and Open.

I chose Responsibility. It's my (and my husband's) responsibility to mould our children. Teach them respect for others and to themselves. I think about it every time Lily puts on her play makeup that our friend bought for her birthday. I tell her she's so beautiful already that she doesn't need makeup. I hope when she's older she doesn't feel the need to change everything about herself and that she needs makeup to make herself pretty for others. I used PTM's For the love of old film intense, rounded corners and FB resizer for my photo. I'm trying to start embracing the grain, so I might very well use this action on all of my photos for this challenge.

(makeover by Lily)

Jack chose open. His Dad spent the day trying to fix our dishwasher, so there were tools everywhere and an "open" toolbox on the counter. Jack used PTM's Candy Shop, and I can't remember now which layer he wanted turned on ;oP

xoxo charmaine

1/52

2012-01-07T20:45:00.000-07:00

Paint the Moon started off a project 52...and got the kids involved too! Who better to join me than my photo loving son Jack (who's almost 7).

Here's our first week's photos. The prompt was natural.

I used PTM actions on mine (which I plan to use faithfully through the year....just for fun!). For the love of old film intense, eclipse b/w, fb resizer, rounded corners.

His is sooc this time b/c it was too late for him to work with me to edit it.

xoxo charmaine

memories, dreams and reflections 2011

2011-12-31T15:16:00.002-07:00

WOW! What a year this has been! We've had a lot of ups and downs....but we have an abundance of love. We are so lucky for that. I'm looking forward to 2012, and the possibilities it may bring.

All the best to you and yours!

1. Me

(taken by Jack....most recent shot of me)

2. I Love You

(my family)

3. Still Laughing

(love the glasses!)

4. Winter Wonderland

(from Valentine's Day)

5. Birthday

(taken to document this boy as he turned FIVE two weeks before Christmas)

6. Friends

(Friends since birth)

7. I Was Inspired

(inspired by all of the Scavenger Hunts hosted by Ashley Sisk.....it sure helped out when I was in a rut!)

8. Spring Fever

(we escaped to Vancouver Island to find spring....as it was very late for us)

9. Travel or Vacation

(again on the Island)

10. Summer Days

(First slip 'n' slide)

11. A Day in My Life

(messy)

12. All Smiles

(love the natural smiles....so hard to get in front of the camera these days)

13. Autumn Harvest

(we went with some wonderful friends to a Pumpkin Patch)

14. Family or Home

(Lily and her cousin.....they're finally at an age where they love to play together)

15. Celebrate

(We celebrated the marriage of my brother-in-law....Henry and Dan stood up for them)

16. Let's Do It Again

(We're planning our next visit to Vancouver / Vancouver Island)

17. Beautiful

(the view from my husband's parent's deck)

18. Dress Up

(I dressed up Lily - and let her "style" her own hair for her THREE year old portraits)

19. Macro

(a pest in our backyard this summer, made for a fantastic macro......and a LOT of mosquito bites!)

20. Holidays

(a very noisy shot -ISO4000- of my youngest + oldest in front of our Christmas tree)

21. My Favourite

(Favourite shot of Lily as she turned three)

22. Don't Ever Change

(I'm having such a hard time with these three growing up)

23. Just Beacause

(one of my favourite shots of the year)

24. Hopes and Dreams
This year I hope for less struggles. Good health. Growth - spiritual, mental and physical. Fun memories. Snuggles. Even more love.

Thanks for joining me on my trip down memory lane!

xoxo charmaine

overheard conversations | edmonton newborn photographer

2011-12-27T08:29:00.001-07:00

After I told Henry I couldn't build a second Lego set with him right now, b/c I had to work, he went back into his room.

Henry: I'm sorry Lily.

Lily: For what?

Henry: For not being nice to you.

Lily: Das ok…..dust don't hit me with a stuffy again.

Henry: Can I still play camping with you?

Lily: Yeah.

It's nice to know that they're learning. Learning to say they're sorry when they've done something not-so-nice (without being TOLD to). Learning to play together, now that she's 3.

Here's sweet Emma, 7 days fresh.

(Sorry to those of you who get this twice, business page HERE).

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-23T10:47:00.000-07:00

From our home to yours. Wishing you a safe and happy Holiday season!

Photo by: pink sugar photography

xoxo charmaine

budding photographer?

2011-12-12T12:33:00.000-07:00

Jack asked to take a few shots on Saturday, after I was done with Henry. I left the settings as they were, told him to point the "blinky-red-square" at Mia's face (and mine in the one of me). His focus was spot on!!! Did I mention he'll be seven in Feb?

xoxo charmaine

five | sherwood park child photographer

2011-12-11T08:16:00.000-07:00

My Henry is Five today!!!

Complete post HERE.

xoxo charmaine

girls...

2011-12-07T08:11:00.001-07:00

Jack said to me "When I see girls that look really pretty, I just can't control myself". Me - PANIC! "Ummmmm…what do you mean?" Him "I don't know, I just have to chase them. And when they think I'm handsome, they chase me a lot and try to kiss me". Oh BOY...I am NOT ready for this! Aren't girls supposed to be gross until he's twelve?

Look at these two stylish ~~heartbreakers-in-the-making~~ kids....

xoxo charmaine

(ps....I haven't been blogging here much lately, so for those of you who follow my photography blog, I apologize for the double post)

when....

2011-11-06T06:10:00.000-07:00

did she:

(jana kendall photography)

grow enough to become three?

Happy Birthday to my sweet baby girl!!!! Full post HERE.

xoxo charmaine

just popping in...

2011-10-15T11:46:00.000-06:00

....to say HI!!!!

Here's a little sneak of what I've been up to again recently (plus assisting with 3 weddings in the last month). Down with a cold this week and have 2 more sessions to go before a lovely weekend away with some of my girlfriends!

I've been creeping most of your pages lately, and loving all the photos!

For full sessions (that are posted so far) go to: www.charmainepoulinphotography.com

xoxo charmaine

thankful

2011-10-09T18:19:00.001-06:00

This weekend is our Canadian Thanksgiving.

I have so much to be thankful for this year:
- the health of my family
- work (even when it feels like we're racing against the clock all the time)
- togetherness.....like tonight, when I thought my hubby was going to work late & he calls to say he's bringing home Butter Chicken from my favourite restaurant
- friends and family....here and far. The ones that are our support system.
- days like today....when it's warmer than expected and we can go on a nature walk and collect leaves, sticks and rocks

Happy Thanksgiving to all my Canadian Friends!

xoxo charmaine

hank the ring bearer

2011-09-29T22:38:00.000-06:00

This past weekend we were lucky to witness my brother-in-law marry his perfect match! In a lovely house, on the beach of a lake. The weather was lovely (think summer....if you actually experienced it this year). I was mostly a spectator, engrossed with enjoying & visiting, and realized at the end of the night that I didn't have any photos of all of us, or any of the kids except two of Hank. After the formals. His response to me sitting him down? "I already had my picture taken..."

But....this is still adorable. And very Hank-ish.

xoxo charmaine

what I've been up to lately...

2011-09-27T14:32:00.000-06:00

.....one more month of craziness & hopefully I can find some time for my favourite challenges again!

Here's what I've been up to lately:
(You can check out the full sessions on my photo blog HERE)

miss you all!!!!
xoxo charmaine

i heart the mountains

2011-09-18T22:47:00.000-06:00

Oh how I could live in the mountains.

My best friend and our families stayed in the Rockies this weekend. And took some lovely shots.

xoxo Charmaine

laventure

2011-09-11T19:45:00.000-06:00

For more....go to my Photography Blog!

xoxo charmaine

grade 1

2011-08-31T18:23:00.001-06:00

You've all heard the story (or lived it).....the sappy Mom that cries while dropping off their child for Grade 1 (or Kindergarten, or Preschool). I knew it would be me. I knew, because when I'd think about having my boy away full days, 5 days a week from me, or the 4 hours I'd have with him before bed time each day, I'd start to feel weepy. This morning I was feeling very confident, distracted by the Mom's I knew, by meeting the teacher. But once I started to drive......the waterworks started.

How could you not miss this face?

ps....this is him just before the start of Kindergarten last year:

xoxo charmaine (aka mama)

kate

2011-08-19T15:45:00.000-06:00

Oh my golly.....I can't believe that school starts in just over one week! My big boy will be going into grade 1, which is giving me serious anxiety! I worked full time for 9 months just after he was a year old.....and it was SO hard to be away from him. And now I've had him to myself for almost 5 more years. YIKES! I know we'll get through it.....I'm not the first Mom to feel this way, right?

Anyways...on a happy note.....meet Kate, my friend's sweet baby girl....with a full head of hair that I can't stop stroking.....and she's a good cuddler!

xoxo charmaine

i heart faces: friendship

2011-08-07T22:58:00.000-06:00

I'm re-posting this shot for I Heart Faces theme: Friendship.

These boys have been friends since birth....second generation of our Mom's group.

Wishing you a Happy Monday!

Click HERE for more entries!

xoxo charmaine

scavenger hunt sunday

2011-08-06T21:04:00.001-06:00

We decided to go camping this week since we were FINALLY having some summery weather & I thought it'd be the perfect time to bring the scavenger hunt back into my life....even if I can only make time this week.

1. Seeing Double / Two

Hank & his friend racing through the huge puddle on the path to the beach.

2. Whatever

Some of the boys on the way to catch the pond creatures (insects, etc).

3. Sweet

My friend Tracey especially made gluten-free cookies b/c of me so I could enjoy some homemade ice cream sandwiches......YUMMMMM!

4. Space

Right behind our campsite was the "outfield" where the kids could play, explore & ride bikes (even have races with the little one's tricycles).

5. Bright

So much of our weekend was bright.....but I loved the colours in this shot. And the fact that my friend pointed out a butterfly...and I was able to capture it!

That's all for now folks....time to cuddle on the couch with my husband, popcorn & grapefruit soda. Thanks for visiting!

xoxo charmaine

overwhelmed

2011-07-29T08:50:00.000-06:00

The consequences of taking on too much with too little time.

But moments like these:

make it all worthwhile!
(sooc)

(Lily had to get in on the action when I was doing some newborn photos for a friend).

I can't wait to edit all of the photos of sweet Kate, and the other sessions I have on the go......it just means I'll be away from here some more.

Miss you all....hope to visit soon!

xoxo charmaine

kate: inside + 8 days new

2011-07-27T11:24:00.000-06:00

Here's a quick sneak of sweet baby Kate:

Hope you have a sunny day!

xoxo charmaine

sabrina

2011-07-18T22:25:00.001-06:00

The anticipation is over.....today a sweet baby was born! I cannot wait to have a snuggle tomorrow!

(thought I made this collage much wider...)

ps....I've started a Facebook Page for photography:

Charmaine Poulin Photography

Stop by if you'd like! I'd love the company!

xoxo charmaine

macro monday

2011-07-17T22:50:00.000-06:00

My husband called me outside today for this:

And then a few minutes later...I endured the hundreds of mosquitoes to get some shots of this:

Both SOOC, both a first (I've never had either "model" for me before - which is exactly what they did!!!).

Oh....and I have a Facebook page now:
Charmaine Poulin Photography
Check it out if you'd like!

Head over to Lisa's Chaos for more Macros!

xoxo charmaine

you capture: summertime???

2011-07-14T09:25:00.000-06:00

We've had the coldest, wettest summer that I can remember.

This past weekend we were supposed to go camping with a group of our friends, and I have to say I wasn't too disappointed when our trailer ended up with electrical problems. We went out to meet them for dinner, since we were disappointed that we'd miss out on the visiting.

The kids & their friends didn't mind:

All SOOC, b/c I have NO time for anything else!

I'm sorry I've done a crappy job of visiting lately....too much on the go between work, photography, hockey camp & all the rest. I hope to be more active soon!

xoxo charmaine

our week in photos

2011-07-08T21:17:00.000-06:00

I can't believe another week has passed!

We had trailer problems (needed a new axle, propane flowing issues & now a new battery), so I'm home tonight instead of camping.....we'll be headed off in the morning. Trying to get all of my work done, having a few play dates, last minute packing, plus an everyday hockey camp made this week FLY!

Here's a glimpse into our week....all SOOC b/c I shouldn't even be sitting at the computer right now!

I'll try to get to as many blogs as I can before I go tomorrow.....have a wonderful weekend!

xoxo charmaine

our week in photos

2011-07-03T19:45:00.000-06:00

Even though my 365 is up, I'm hoping to continue finding something to take a photo of each day.

Hope you have a great week!!!

And to my American friends:
Hope you have a safe & happy Independence Day!

xoxo charmaine

June Quarterly Top 5

2011-06-29T22:34:00.000-06:00

Oh gosh.....to just pick 5...I'm not sure how I'm going to do it. Random order, picking from my flickr:

1. Dan & the kids, on our Father's Day mini-session

2. Henry & Lily together. If only moments like this would happen more often & the fighting less. One day....

3. This photo looks a little sad...and it was, at the time....but I could laugh until I cried now every time I think about Hank falling in the river (not deep, or fast).....you see, he has a reputation for water....he just can't stay away (he was dubbed "the wedding swimmer" last year for staying in the ocean the entire ceremony for his Auntie's wedding).

4. The ferry ride between Vancouver & Vancouver Island......the kids had so much fun!

5. Playing on the beach.....

xoxo charmaine

tonight...

2011-06-28T22:35:00.001-06:00

I spent an hour capturing the beauty of a growing life.....someone I absolutely cannot wait to meet!

xoxo charmaine

scavenger hunt sunday

2011-06-25T21:35:00.000-06:00

It's been soooooooo long since I've had it together enough to participate....here we go:

1. Windows/Doors

As I was working Friday night, this was my view out the window (sooc -jpeg- except for a crop)

2. Eyelashes

Henry - he's got the best in the family

3. Paint

Things got messy.....

4. Leaf Veins

This is my Basil plant....which gets put out every day....remind me to wash the leaves first? Bleh....so much fuzz out here lately it's looked like it was snowing.

5. Faceless Portrait

Lily's last day of music classes

xoxo charmaine

paper mama: june favorite

2011-06-25T10:22:00.000-06:00

Where the heck did June go? I barely feel like it was here....

My favorite photo must be this one:

I threw down the blanket for a group shot & she laid right down and gave me the opportunity for this one.

xoxo charmaine

(359-365/365)!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-06-24T20:20:00.001-06:00

I feel like celebrating!! I survived this challenge of taking a photo a day!!! Although I did miss a couple of days, I did not cheat! And I'm proud of that!

I'm hoping to continue finding something to take a photo of each and every day.

(And yes....my first photo is last....I got confused on which day I was supposed to start...ooops!)

As usual, I'm linking up here:

xoxo charmaine

dana and brendan part 2

2011-06-24T08:50:00.000-06:00

My husband's cousin Dana was married last month, and I was so lucky to be second shooter. I must say that I really enjoy the behind the scenes candid moments. Here's a few more of their day, from getting ready to the first dance.

(some of the formals I took were posted here....again...mostly candids)

Hope you have a happy weekend!!!

xoxo charmaine

today....

2011-06-21T16:40:00.001-06:00

We finally had a break from the rain we've had for the past week. It was actually sunny & beautiful (and the ground / sand was wet). We tried out the spray deck at one of our most-frequented parks with 3 other families.....and Lily gave me this look:

I cleaned up the scratches (left the cheesie remnants on her face), ran eye love2 (which I used a low opacity brush....but maybe should've been even lower) & ran PTM's Wonder Quickie.

And for Black and White Wednesday, converted to b/w.

xoxo charmaine

father's day

2011-06-19T21:31:00.000-06:00

Today we let Papa sleep in until after 9 o'clock (for someone who normally gets up at 4, it's a big deal). We made cards for him, spent time together, got ready and headed out in the rain for some family photos. I wanted one with Dan & the kids b/c they just didn't cooperate for our family session.

We are so blessed to have such a wonderful man in our lives.

You can tell by the kids legs that we had lots of fun in puddles too.....

Hope you had a great weekend!

xoxo charmaine

(352-358/365)

2011-06-19T10:27:00.000-06:00

Seven more days to go in my 365 challenge!

Three more days of school!!

I can't wait for "summer" to officially be here!!!

I'm linking to:

And this is how our Father's Day began....little stinker wanted to come into our bed around 6 am. She slept with him until after 8. We are so lucky to have him in our lives.

my family photos

2011-06-15T10:18:00.000-06:00

We worked with an amazing photographer to get some amazing images this year....check us out:

And more here, on her blog:

Pink Sugar Photography

xoxo charmaine

(345-351/365)

2011-06-13T13:46:00.000-06:00

I'm getting so close to the end I can just feel it!!!

Again....we're going crazy over here. I was barely home Thurs-Sun, so our house is a disaster. I just heard the lego being dumped out....bubbles that my Mom brought home with the kids after her church picnic were spilled on the floor. Markers written all over the "new" table my Mom brought home from a garage sale. And did I mention we've only been home for a little over an hour????

So I'm sorry if I haven't visited you lately.....I hope to be more present soon in the blogging world again.

Take care.....

xoxo charmaine

breathing...

2011-06-07T21:57:00.001-06:00

...that's what I'm practicing right now.

Trying to breathe instead of let the little things bother me. Trying to remember that everything I have in my life is a blessing. Trying not to focus on the negative. Focusing on my family.....and all of the wonderful memories we need to make.

(PTM's Wonder Quickie)

So it means I'm absent here a little bit more....I miss all of you, and I hope to be around more in the future.

(PTM's Grace B/W)

But for now.....I'm breathing.

xoxo charmaine

(338-344/365)

2011-06-03T19:59:00.000-06:00

I can't believe another week has flown by....do I say this every week?

Hope you have a great weekend!

xoxo charmaine

today....

2011-05-31T22:14:00.000-06:00

We tried to blow dandelion fluffs....

And then we found an easier way...

It was warm enough (sorta) for the slip 'n slide...

(All are SOOC again except the b/w......so you get reality...Lily boogers and all...sorry)

xoxo charmaine

(331-337/365)

2011-05-27T21:22:00.000-06:00

WOW! I'm less than 30 days away from completing my 365 challenge!!!! I'm going to try to keep going since I have somewhere to link up to.

All of the photos in the collage are SOOC b/c my week was CRAZY! Seriously....I cannot WAIT for school to be finished!!!!

Here's our girl doing what she loves....making a mess....and wearing a dress (skirt).

This isn't a great photo, but it has a great story...I walked in the door & Dan shushed me....so I walked over to the table to see this:

Poor thing was so tuckered out that she's asleep on the kitchen chair! Taken with the lens on my camera (100mm 2.8), w/no flash in a darkish room, so I lightened it a bit with Florabella's Milk & Honey.

And for Flowers on Saturday:

Finally our Amur Cherry Tree has some blooms!

Happy Weekend everyone!

xoxo charmaine

before and after: coffeeshop perfect portrait

2011-05-25T21:47:00.003-06:00

I thought I should give this action a shot:

Coffeeshop Perfect Portrait 3

Before:

After:

I'm really amazed at what this action did for this photo.....normally I wouldn't have changed anything but the nose clean-up.....and I LOVE it now!

Boy...she loves posing for the camera now. She always asks me to take a picture of her "picture me" "picture this". Am I in trouble???

And....it seems that I can't finish the prompts from anything lately & I'm tired of not joining up, so I'm going to just add my own edit to Ashley & Jill's challenge....

xoxo charmaine

macro monday

2011-05-22T20:46:00.000-06:00

It's been a while since I posted for Macro Monday....but as I was doing some yard clean up, I found this little guy:

I first thought he was a worm, but once I picked him up with a stick to show the kids, I notice his little legs.

For more, head HERE

xoxo charmaine

paper mama: blue

2011-05-21T08:34:00.000-06:00

We're on Day 3 of the kids 5 day weekend....it's looking a little crummy outside and I'd love to just sit and play / cuddle all day. Lily is cuddling me on my lap as I type and the boys are playing lego right beside me....if only Dan was home with us...hopefully he'll have one day off this week (he just found out that it's getting super busy at work, so that sometimes means 7 days a week, not 6). I am thankful for work, though. Always thankful.

My Blue photo:

xoxo charmaine

(324-330/365)

2011-05-20T15:44:00.001-06:00

Oh my....another busy week.....family photos, the kids get a 5 day long weekend & I'm behind on my "actual" work. We are hoping to do some yard clean up, planting & most of all playing outside since we've finally hit our spring!

All of my shots this week are SOOC b/c there was no time for editing. Again....there's more of Lily than everyone else b/c she is the trouble-maker.....and the one that says "picture me" all the time.

I'm linking up with:

Have a Happy Weekend!

ps.....here's my sneak peek at our family photos.....taken by the lovely Andrea of pink sugar photography

xoxo charmaine

these two...

2011-05-16T22:12:00.000-06:00

....fight. All. The. Time.

So moments like these:

Are so precious to me. They give me hope.

(Sitting under my office ~~desk~~ table, he was "reading" to her while I was cleaning)

Just North of where I live there is a town that's being evacuated because of fires.
You can read about it: http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/story/2011/05/16/slave-lake-fire- evacuation.html
And if you have a moment, please pray for the people who are suffering the losses of this devastating fire.

Thank you.

xoxo Charmaine

2 weeks of photos (310-323/365)

2011-05-13T22:55:00.002-06:00

I'll have to admit...my camera didn't come out much in the past two weeks (except for the wedding I helped out with). But here's what I've got (mostly sooc, some iPhone shots):

And the second week:

For more of my faves from the wedding, go HERE.

I'm linking up with:

Happy Saturday to you!

xoxo charmaine

dana and brendan

2011-05-13T18:54:00.001-06:00

I was asked by an extended family member who is a photographer if I could help out with wedding photos for a cousin of Dan's. Of course I jumped at the opportunity to experience "behind the scenes" of a wedding from the photographer's view.

Here are a ~~few~~ bunch of my favorite shots from the portrait portion (mostly candids, while Juan was setting up some shots).

Thanks for stopping by....sorry I've been away so much...I should be posting more frequent now that our company is gone & there's no wedding on its way!

xoxo charmaine

show and tell: umbrella

2011-05-08T20:26:00.000-06:00

Show:

Tell:

We were worried about rain all day. A cousin put a broom in a tree b/c of an old wives tale. It was raining right after the ceremony during the receiving line. But......we managed to get all the photos done without the need for our umbrellas. I thought a shot with the umbrella right at the end would be a good reminder of us praying for the rain to stay away.
(I was helping with photography for a family wedding yesterday)

Go HERE for more Show and Tell.

xoxo charmaine

april photo hunt

2011-05-05T19:57:00.001-06:00

I was really lucky to be on holidays for the last two weeks of April....my photo hunt items were pretty easy to find....and sometimes hard to narrow down.

Go HERE for more entries

1. Animals

2. Bedroom

(from my archives....)

3. Best from April 16 or 17

4. In Fashion

5. Lawn & Garden

6. Lazy

7. Playtime

8. Rain or Water

9. Silhouette

10. Something Tiny

11. Something Huge

12. Texture (real or processed)

Seems in the last couple of days blogger told me that I'm not following any blogs!!??!! I don't have time to deal with that right now, with work, a wedding coming up this weekend, family in town and Mother's Day school tea + the real Mother's Day. I hope to visit you soon!

Take care!

xoxo Charmaine

scavenger hunt sunday

2011-04-30T23:40:00.000-06:00

Sorry...it's late & I'm short on words tonight! Hope to do lots of visiting in the morning!!!
1. Architecture

I love the detail on this bridge....even more, I love the rainbow we were following for a bit on Tuesday!

2. Rimmed with Light

Ok...I'll admit I'm not sure what I should've been going for here....but I love how the clouds are "rimmed with light"...that counts, right? I can't wait to see what you all came up with!

3. Toes or Feet

These toes are trouble! Climbing, taking her to places she's not supposed to be. Curling up on my lap. And unless she's just out of a bath...always bare & a bit dirty!

4. This is my favorite

Moments like these. A lot of the time she's yelling at him "NO MAMA!!!". So I love when she cuddles with him. (Even though she was asleep in this shot)

5. Shade(s)

I know...this post is all about Lily...she's always asking me to "picture" her. And the boys seem to be avoiding me (or Jack will give me a fake smile as soon as the camera comes up....where did that come from?). Hopefully I can break them from this soon!

So....it seems I became a bit wordy throughout the descriptions. Hope you all have a wonderful Sunday!

xoxo charmaine

(303-309/365)

2011-04-30T22:55:00.000-06:00

More for my 365 challenge:

And probably my favorite flower shot of the trip:

(sorry if you've already seen it this week)

xoxo charmaine

paper mama: spring

2011-04-30T09:26:00.000-06:00

I know I just used this photo....but it's definitely what Spring is to me this year. No snow, No winter boots, mitts or hat, and a vacation to the beach on Vancouver Island.

xoxox charmaine

just a few...

2011-04-29T18:14:00.000-06:00

We're home.

(SOOC of the view from my in-law's deck)

I should be happy that we had a lovely vacation, but I wish we could've stayed.

I just popped in for a moment before supper to share a few more shots of our trip....I still have some that aren't loaded on the computer yet...so there'll be a few more another day.

(all of these taken with the borrowed Canon 1D Mark II that I'm using to help with a wedding next Saturday)

xoxo charmaine

butterfly world

2011-04-25T22:37:00.002-06:00

Today we went to Butterfly World.

Beautiful Butterflies were flittering all around us.

Lily petted an African Spurred Tortoise. More than a few times. (You're NOT supposed to touch anything!!!) Lucky she came out ok.

(not these guys....I couldn't get a close-up of that one)

Little tropical birds were here and there.

And in the garden, there were some beautiful flowers in the rain.

(All shots SOOC today - except the b/w conversion, taken with my 100mm 2.8 Macro....no time to edit, as we pack up for the last leg of our adventure)

How was your day?

xoxo charmaine

scavenger hunt sunday

2011-04-23T22:34:00.001-06:00

Finally....I'm back for another Scavenger Hunt! Holidays are a great time to explore & find items!

1. Reflections

At the Marina.....I saw this opportunity when I was fetching a cart to take all of our stuff back to the truck.

2. Guess what this is:

(see below for answer)

3. What's Inside

Mussels

4. Playtime

Dollar Store Airplanes fly great down the stairs and off the deck

5. Lawn & Garden

I overexposed this one....and I, personally love it....it's in the garden at the front of my in-law's house, and the sun was shining *just so*. I took some that were more "proper", but this one speaks to me.

The Answer to # 2: The belly / mouth of a Sunfish that we accidentally caught (and then released) in our crab traps. Eeew.
We're still on holidays for another week, so my blogging time is down to a minimum. Thank you so much for visiting & if I don't make it by your blog, I'll try to soon!
xoxo charmaine

(296-302/365)

2011-04-23T08:13:00.000-06:00

WOW! I've hit the 300's with my 365 project! There's been a few bumps in the road, but I'm glad to be almost done!

I could've filled every frame with flowers this week.....but I thought I should show a bit of what we were doing as a family too!

In the parking lot at the Marina, there was this teeny tiny weedy flower....so adorable:

enter>

macro friday

2011-04-22T09:46:00.000-06:00

Wishing you a Happy Good Friday from Vancouver Island, BC

The kids Grandpa called me over to this post to look at the "fuzzy bear" hanging off of it. I love this shot b/c there's no reflection from the water, since I was shooting down into the water.

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

xoxo charmaine

today....

2011-04-19T23:03:00.004-06:00

We said hello to the deer out the back door.

I played with my Macro lens, in a place that's in bloom.

Went for a walk along the beach looking at rocks and seashells.

"blue"
If you like my photo most, go to Trendy Treehouse HERE & Vote!
Thanks!

It was an absolutely lovely day.

How was yours?

Hello this week from Vancouver Island, Canada!
ps....I seem to be having a bit of internet trouble.....certain blogs I can't view photos / comment, so I apologize if you visit me and I don't visit you this time!

xoxo charmaine

i heart faces: wind

2011-04-17T22:42:00.000-06:00

We went to the beach today. It was windy. But it was so gorgeous!

(Liliana & Lily the chihuahua, who belongs to my brother-in-law)

For more "wind" photos, go HERE.

xoxo charmaine

macro monday

2011-04-17T18:36:00.000-06:00

Finally....in a nice green place with beautiful things to photograph!!!

(moss growing on the largest tree in their backyard)

We're having a wonderful time at my SIL's house in Vancouver, BC. The weather has been great so we've walked through a forrest to get to their park, played outside while the guys put together a playcenter and taken a quick trip to the beach (seriously....10 minutes from the beach...ahhhh).

Tomorrow we're headed over to Vancouver Island to visit with the in-law's......more to come when I can!

For more Macro's, go to Macro Monday at Lisa's Chaos

xoxo charmaine

(289-295/365)

2011-04-15T22:25:00.000-06:00

We made it to our destination, so we're officially ON HOLIDAYS!!! Today we had a lovely day in Vancouver, the kids playing with their cousin inside and out and then a trip through the forrest into the park.

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And my first flower photo taken here in Vancouver (where so much is in bloom!):

(this is a small flower on a viney-like ground cover plant.....so pretty!)
Taken with my *new* 100mm 2.8 Macro lens.
(f/9, 1/125s, ISO400, 100mm)

xoxo charmaine

cadence

2011-04-11T12:10:00.000-06:00

Remember this adorable couple? Well just over a week after I met with them....sweet tiny Cadence was born at 5 lbs, 10 oz. I finally got to meet him when he was 12 days old. Swoon!

Congratulations......we wish you so much happiness....you deserve it!!!

Hugs...Charmaine

ps.....this will be my last post before holidays....hope to be back soon!

paper mama: black and white

2011-04-09T18:42:00.001-06:00

I've posted this one in color recently, but it's one of my faves:

For more black and whites:

We're running around like crazy getting ready for a last minute trip to visit Dan's parents on Vancouver Island, BC. Since he can't work at all for 6 weeks, we figured it would be a great time to take off and spend some time in Vancouver with his sister and family and his parents on the Island (in between wrist check-ups). So if I'm absent a bit more than usual.....I'm nearby...collecting some photos & hoping to find some spare time for uploading!

Take care all!

xoxo charmaine

(282-288/365)

2011-04-08T21:33:00.001-06:00

I'm linking up a week's worth of my dailies to:

And.....I know it's not a flower (yet), but it's the closest I've found....some REAL signs of spring!

And I had to share this iPhone photo from the other day.....Lily having a time out....and this is what I found.
(used Hipstomatic App)

xoxo charmaine

absolute wonder

2011-04-04T23:22:00.001-06:00

Every time I meet a new baby, I think about what a miracle they are. I remember reading a weekly email that told us what was developing at what time, and the size compared to a fruit or vegetable.

Yesterday was no different. I met Cadence, who's due date was today. So absolutely perfect. So much reddish hair, like his Momma. All his little fingers and toes. And I feel blessed to have been there to capture him at this age. Because before we know it, he'll be running around with the rest of the cousins at a family function.

Before:

I honestly felt it just needed a little color pop, so I ran PTM's Wonder Quickie. (Image not shown)
But when I had the images side by side there was so little difference that I decided to do a b/w edit for this challenge.

After:

I'm in love with PTM's Grace B/W. LOVE!

xoxo charmaine

(281-283/365)

2011-04-03T22:49:00.000-06:00

281
It's FINALLY....it's melting! Children are playing outside again! Mud is being smeared around the house (ok....if there was a way to have an outdoor shower / drying room.....I'd do it!)

282
Fractured.
Dan hurt his hand at work 2 weeks ago tomorrow (Monday). He went to the ER for x-rays and was sent home with a painkiller / anti-anflamatory. 7 day check-up had more x-rays and a question mark about the hand. Day 11 we received a call that it was fractured.....seriously??? Both x-rays clearly showed a fracture....

283
We met Cadence today, the newest member of our extended family.......

(click HERE for more macros)

april photo hunt

2011-04-01T13:37:00.001-06:00

Ok....I've been in a slump. I'm sure I've said it before...but the never ending snow and cold has left me inspired (although I'll take this weather any day before earthquakes and tsunamis).

So this is the way I'm going to get out of it:

If you want to join too, go HERE.

We've just begun our muddy season here....and I couldn't be happier!

Happy Friday!

playing catch up (269-280)

2011-04-01T13:35:00.001-06:00

Oh goodness....I seem to keep forgetting to upload my daily photos (or at least mention that they are my dailies). So here's a whole bunch more.....and sorry....no explanations this time!

269

270

271

272

273

274

275

276

277

278

279

280

So that's all caught up now as of yesterday...phew! Let's see if I can finish this off without getting so behind in posting again!

so lucky

2011-03-31T16:18:00.002-06:00

Six years ago this month, I joined a County-run New Mom's Group. 20 ladies and their new babies for 8 weeks of "classes", and a place to meet other new Mom's. Who knew that 6 years later we would still get together weekly, and rely on each other. I don't know where I'd be today if it weren't for these ladies. The help and support we give each other to get through the tantrums & trials and all of the happy moments. All the coffee we've drank & snacks we've consumed while our children learn how to play with others. Through hitting and biting, kicking and screaming they are lucky to have wonderful friends that they've known their whole lives. Next year will be a year of change, as the 6 year olds will be gone to school all day. I hope we're able to keep these friendships up for them as our lives get a little more crazy.

Before:

After:

(one of Jack's friends.....who lost one of her top teeth yesterday)
7D, 50 1.8, edited with PSE9 and PTM's Jubilee

I am thankful today......for friends.

black and white wednesday

2011-03-30T08:50:00.000-06:00

We're taking it easy this week with the kids on Spring Break. Lazy mornings, play dates, games, movies and cuddles.

And waiting desperately for spring!

(headband from: Little Love's Designs on Etsy)

Hope you're having a great one!

xoxo charmaine

hope for Japan

2011-03-29T08:03:00.000-06:00

I read THIS blog post, and I thought....I can help spread hope.

From Wikipedia:
An ancient Japanese legend promises that anyone who folds a thousand origami cranes will be granted a wish by a crane, such as long life or recovery from illness or injury. The crane in Japan is one of the mystical or holy creatures (others include the dragon and the tortoise), and is said to live for a thousand years. In Japan, it is commonly said that folding 1000 paper origami cranes makes a person's wish come true.

There is a Flickr group HERE called 1000 Cranes for Japan

Japan, you have been in our thoughts and prayers. We pray for hope, for strength and courage to face each day. We pray for survivors, and for new growth. I wish I were better with words to write an inspiring post....but please know that we are thinking of you....each and every day.

xoxo charmaine

paper mama: sweet

2011-03-26T19:09:00.000-06:00

When I saw the prompt was sweet, I thought of this photo:

Processed with Jubilee from Paint the Moon.

xoxo charmaine

tracy and dewey

2011-03-24T10:18:00.001-06:00

I was so lucky to meet with Tracy and Dewey 2 weeks ago. Their love is so apparent and the joy for their (then) unborn son. I am so happy for them, and can't wait to meet their little man.

(Born just a couple of days ago).

These are just some of my favorites.....

xoxo charmaine

pixel perfect: before and after

2011-03-24T10:05:00.001-06:00

before:

canon 7D, rented 50 1.2, f/3.2, 1/640s, ISO 100

after:

I liked the SOOC, but thought I could just play with a few actions. I used PTM's Ambience + Rays of Hope and adjusted the layers.

xoxo charmaine

scavenger hunt sunday(?)

2011-03-21T21:28:00.000-06:00

Here we go again!
1. Camera Phone

I downloaded an app....HDR Fusion, which apparently takes 2 photos and combines them to make a "perfect" exposure. But don't use it on a moving target. (Although...I think this looks cool).

2. Camera

Dan's old film SLR. I'm going to learn a LOT about getting the right exposure (I hope) this summer with this camera and some black and white film.

3. Shoes

One of my favorite pairs....and it was actually nice enough to wear them (for a day).

4. Chair

*forgot about this one

5. Imperfection

Lily was pulling on the level trying to help....imagine the imperfections if he made the marks while she was? And I love the imperfect grain in the photo too..

Next week:

Decay (old/abandoned)
Groups of Three (Exploring with a Camera prompt)
Kitchen (next Paper Heart Camera theme -consider a self portrait for this one)
Things that make you go "hmmm" (Chic Homeschool Mama's suggestion)
"Me" Time (Chic Homeschool Mama's suggestion)

xoxo charmaine

(264-268/365)

2011-03-21T21:15:00.001-06:00

Playing catch up....again.

264
My beautiful friend is 21 weeks already!

265
Running to sing some songs

266
Parent night at the school

267
New phone (the flash is REALLY bright)

268
Great saves

xoxo charmaine

michelle

2011-03-21T07:51:00.001-06:00

I finally got my computer back on Friday night.....NOT FIXED. "Genius" forgot to enter my disc drive problem and I didn't check over the ppwk b/c I was late to pick up Jack from school (luckily I had another Mom standing in for me). Off I'll go Thursday night for some training and to get the last (hopefully) issue fixed with this darn thing!

Anyways....I finally had a chance to look at some of my super fun session with my friend Michelle last week! She was needing a photo or two for her upcoming website launch, and I was so happy to spend the afternoon with her traipsing across the big city.

For now, you can find her on Facebook or her Blog, for those of you in Red Deer, AB (and area...).

This was my first time "posing" someone, and I've got to say....it's harder than it seems to look in photos!

Michelle.....I wish you more session requests than you can fill and loads of wonderful clients!!! I can't wait to "work" with you again (and just visit, and drink coffee.....and laugh).

xoxo charmaine

funny faces

2011-03-17T07:24:00.000-06:00

Just popping in quick to share for Black and White Wednesday:

Ok......this didn't make it up for Black and White Wednesday.... But I just remembered I was in the middle of trying to post when the computer froze. I'm posting from Dan's iPad. No news on the computer yet....hopefully I'll hear / get it back today!!!!!

xoxox charmaine

argh!

2011-03-16T07:29:00.003-06:00

My computer is frozen......again. So back to get it fixed I go! Hope to be back soon!

xoxo charmaine

today....

2011-03-14T18:44:00.007-06:00

I want to talk about a product that I found. And love.
(also day 263/365)

(used my rented 50 1.2, edited with MCP Mini Fusion & Florabella Milk & Honey...adjusted layers to taste)

I've looked a few times at the shop Petit Calla. And I've been in LOVE with the headbands! I finally decided that Lily needed one and that I would love one for on hand the next time I have a newborn girl session (please someone....have a baby girl soon!!!).

Both the Anna Headband (seen on Lily), and the Nicole flower on an elastic are gorgeous. They are VERY well made. Hand cut, hand stitched.

I think that if you're in the market for a new headband, hair clip or brooch....you should check them out! I really don't think you'd be disappointed!!!

(I was not paid or asked to review this product....I just bought it, and thought it was too good not to share).

xoxo charmaine

the simple things

2011-03-14T12:33:00.000-06:00

We had some time to burn as Henry was at his first unparented school birthday party, so I took the kids to Starbucks.

Look what they found:

The second one is my official entry for:

xoxo charmaine

(261-262/365)

2011-03-13T21:33:00.000-06:00

Phew.....this weekend was hectic. Like run around from morning until night and then all over again kind of hectic. I just washed yesterday's make-up off and showered (I'm sure I was a treat to be around today).

Yesterday I toured the big city with my friend Michelle to take a few photos of her for her business:

Michelle Hansen Photography

Facebook Blog

Today, the time change messed me up a bit b/c our hockey time was even earlier than normal and I had a Maternity session booked with Dan's cousin for mid-morning.

Did I mention that I had card club right after that, and then a birthday party from 3:45-5:45??? Such a busy day, but it was amazing. I will sleep like a rock tonight.

xoxo charmaine

(258-260/365)

2011-03-11T16:23:00.000-07:00

258:

Time out

259:
ROAR

260:
Beach Party day (-22C this morning outside)

xoxo charmaine

rented

2011-03-11T07:05:00.002-07:00

First of all, I'm praying for all of the people in Japan that the earthquake affected. And for the safety of people that may be affected by the tsunami. Please send your prayers.

I rented a 50mm 1.2 lens for the weekend, as it's supposed to warm up and a friend is coming to town for a fun session. I'm working my butt (ok, fingers and eyes) off to put in extra hours so that I can buy a new lens and this is one on my list. This is one of my first shots......

View more SOOC's HERE

I loved it as is, so I only ran Florabella's Champagne Black and White and changed it to a low opacity.

I'm already in love with this lens.....anyone have any input? I have a Canon EOS 7D and my choices are the 24-70mm 2.8 and 50mm 1.2

xoxo charmaine

(236-257/365)

2011-03-10T23:07:00.001-07:00

I'm so behind in posting these. So forgive the HUGE post and the photos you've already seen!

236:

our valentine

237:

"six" photo session

238:

new lego

239:

sharing the last of Lily's ice cream

240:

pretty nails (but out of focus)

241:

my stampin' up stickers (sneak)

242:

my nailpolish (sneak...do you see a pattern here?)

243:

might be the best chowder ever...hope he can recreate it one day!

244:

gluten-free fish & chips

245:

almond butter, apple sandwiches, dipped in maple syrup

@ communitea cafe in Canmore, AB

246:

gluten-free pizza @ rocky mountain flatbread in Canmore, AB

247:

skating at Banff Springs Hotel

248:

home again....

249:

coffee...

250:

the theatre

251:

quinoa, broccoli and pineapple salad

252:

first dentist visit

253:

simple beauty

254:

moms vs. kids game

(I guess I cheated on this one, as I didn't take any this day)

255:

dishes

256:

bachelor cream puffs

257:

shells and cheese

Alrighty.....that gets me caught up until Tuesday....the last two days are still on my camera and I'm headed to bed now!

Thanks for sticking with me!

xoxo charmaine

shoot and edit: week 9 - spring - edit

2011-03-10T21:54:00.000-07:00

I'm not super happy with the edit this time...I couldn't figure out what to do with this photo:

Edit:

I tried adding layers, a couple of different actions, and I ended up with MCP Mini Fusion action and adjusted to taste.

xoxo charmaine

embrace the camera

2011-03-10T06:45:00.000-07:00

I had to take this one from my archives in February b/c I forgot to get in front of the camera this week!

Henry and I, right after I took some photos to celebrate Jack turning 6. Don't mind my skin.....it's been a work in progress & I have NO clue how to use a skin-smoothing action. But it's getting better with the help of a cream.

I love that smile.....It just gets me everyday!!!!

xoxo charmaine

black and white wednesday

2011-03-09T06:53:00.000-07:00

Estella, part 2

After Estella's Mom and I were satisfied with her six year old photo session in her room, we let her choose an outfit to dress up in. This is what she chose.....and might I add that we did not prompt her to pose....

Cutest bunny I've met!

xoxo charmaine

today....

2011-03-08T13:34:00.001-07:00

I went in search of signs of spring.

It's cold here. Like minus double digits and I just heard that we're expecting more snow this week.......but the trees seem to know that it should be spring:

And I had fun watching Lily's technique for eating shells & cheese:

What are you doing today?

xoxo charmaine

touch up tuesday

2011-03-08T07:07:00.000-07:00

Funny...I'm posting food for my touch up today (you'll see why below).

I found THIS recipe from the Gluten Free Goddess.

(Quinoa Salad with Pineapple, Broccoli and Mint)

You see, Dan has also had to go Gluten Free while he's waiting for food allergy tests (4-6 weeks). I've been GF for almost 5 years now, so it's pretty easy in our house, but I'm always looking for new ideas. And I'm addicted to Quinoa.

Before:

A little dark & the white balance was off (I'm lazy a lot indoors)

In Camera Raw, I adjusted the white balance & exposed it a bit more.....I still liked the darkness all around. Then I ran PTM's Wonder Quickie and used the cool, color boost and contrast layers and adjusted to my liking.

Oh my gosh this salad was amazing!!!! Especially 2 days later!!!!

And below is a shot I tried to save....I'm not sure what happened.....I set the camera up for the arena before going on the ice and when I got it back it was completely different....kids? Dan? I've seen photos that Dan took before we met....and he had some great shots...

Our pretend face off after the Moms vs Kids hockey game.

Happy Tuesday! I'm off to wake the kiddos for school!

xoox charmaine

good to wow SOOC: spring(?)

2011-03-07T09:08:00.002-07:00

We still have SO much snow here....in fact, it snowed 2-3 days again this past week. So I'm not sure if my photo is a bud that tried to start when it warmed up for a bit? Or if it's a leftover from the fall! I'm NO gardener. But it gave me hope, as I walked by it peeking out of the snow the last couple of days (did I mention it's been colder than -20C still here?)

(Canon EOS 7D, 50mm 1.8, 1/125s, f/8, ISO100)

Come back Thursday for my edit!xoxo charmaine

show and tell challenge: book

2011-03-07T07:35:00.000-07:00

Show:

Tell:

My oldest (smirk) friend's daughter is 12 days older than my Jack. Destined for friendship? I hope so. We decided to do a little session to celebrate "six" in her room.

xoxo charmaine

i heart faces: people's choice

2011-03-07T06:44:00.001-07:00

A baby is sunshine and moonbeams and more brightening your world as never before.
-- Author Unknown

xoxo charmaine

the simple things

2011-03-06T07:36:00.001-07:00

At my girlfriend's house on Friday for our play date, this flower caught my eye instantly. When I went to take a photo of it, she mentioned that she almost threw it away, b/c they were the leftovers from her Valentine's flowers. This photo made me happy. And going for play date's with my Mom's group (for the past 6 years) saves me....and my children.

What are the simple things that made you happy this week?

xoxo charmaine

sooc sunday

2011-03-05T14:42:00.001-07:00

This is my first time linking up to SOOC Sunday. It's perfect for me, as I seem to have less time lately for doing any tweaking.

Jack came to me at our Friday Mom's Group as Batman.....had to capture just one shot:

Join in the fun?

Click HERE

I'm also linking up HERE for Point and Shoot this weekend!

xoxo charmaine

evangeline

2011-03-05T10:18:00.001-07:00

Two weeks ago I met sweet Evangeline for the first time. Her parents are the kind of people you would just be drawn to, as you can feel their love. I am so thankful that they welcomed me into their home to capture some photos of their baby girl.

Welcome to our Family, Sweet Girl!!!

xoxo charmaine

pixel perfect: before and after

2011-03-03T06:12:00.000-07:00

Before:

Used my Canon EOS 7D & 50mm 1.8. Edited in PSE 9

After:

Again, I only ran PW's Wonder Quickie with Warmth, Color Boost and Contrast turned on and adjusted the opacity.

xoxo charmaine