ColorMeJill Photography

Waconia becomes WOWconia - MN Children's Photographer

2010-11-04T20:09:00.005-05:00

I peeked back to the session I did with the Freeman kids last summer and was surprised by how much they've changed. While choosing photos for this posting, I was reminded of our conversations and fun during the session and realized even more how much they are growing up.

We headed to downtown Waconia for our session location and were not disappointed. The colors and texures of the buildings have me referring to it as WOWconia now and I can't wait to go back. I loved peeking around the corners to see what we'd find next. The kids loved venturing into the nooks and crannies we found.

Yes, you are going up into that windowsill!

Thanks for sharing that beautiful fall day with me, Freemans!

Wyatt's Six-Month Session - Kansas City Children's Photographer

2010-10-20T21:03:00.006-05:00

Oh, how time has flown by this summer. I recenly traveled to Kansas City for Wyatt's six-month
photo session. He awoke from a nap just as I arrived... and had this adorable smile on his face.

He has a pleasant disposition, calm and happy...

Until we pulled out his favorite toys. Then he squealed with delight. Love it when they do that.

Big brother has blonde hair, but little Wyatt looks just like mommy.

Tiffany has excellent design taste and I love this chair on the front porch.

Thank you for a great session, Wyatt. You brought joy to my heart.

Lucas - MN Children's Photographer

2010-08-11T20:46:00.006-05:00

You met Lucas last year... on a chilly fall day. We lucked out this time with a warm, sunny evening. He was playful, engaging and curious as we made our way around the park. His personality has grown in the past sixth months and I noticed he was more sure of himself and also has a cute little sense of humor. Mom and dad joined in the fun too!

P.S. Yes, there is an elephant in the room that I'm avoiding... I haven't posted in a while but do have a ton to share with you. It's been a busy summer. Stay tuned for more fun moments coming soon.

Friday's Fab Five - MN Childrens Photographer

2010-05-22T09:32:00.006-05:00

Sharing some of my favs today...

1. Laffy Taffy - I'm addicted. I reach in the bag wondering which flavor I'll grab... banana, my favorite! Grape, intense flavor! Green apple, tart yet sweet! Strawberry, yummm! I must admit that I sometimes tear the little package open before reading the jokes. Guilt, guilt, guilt. It is really so much more fun to read them. They are little brain teasers and completely silly at the same time.

2. Canon Reusable Bag - While finishing my purchase at National Camera Exchange, I was in the midst of doing my "I don't need a bag," when the clerk replied, "You might want this one," and pulled out a reusable Canon bag. Do I ever! I love reusable bags and I love my Canon. I already put it to use on a shopping trip this morning.

3. Jeremy Cowart - I watched Jeremy's presentation at the Escalate Live photography webinar and he re-charged my photographic spirit with words of vision, exploring and challenging. Discover his unique world here. Not a photographer? Try something new in any area of your life - you never know what can happen. Jeremy shared two special projects he developed... but you'll have to wait for another post on them. Something I'm crazy excited about participating in later this year. Stay tuned! (photo from Escalate Live website)

4. Spring Gardens - Gettin' my green thumb on to plant my container garden. I bought Container Garden magazine for inspiration and guidance, made a diagram of my patio and containers, and STILL walked around in a stupor at the garden center. I had cart envy of other shoppers, not being able to make up my mind. Problem is, I love all of them. The large colorful blooms, the itty bitty tiny blooms, the climbers, the trailers... Thankfully my friend, Annette, was there to consult with. Not intersted in going to the trouble? Your local green house has PLENTY of pre-arranged pots. Set one by your door to brighten your summer days.

5. Sugarland - Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush comprise this award-winning duo with a fresh take on country tunes. Love the wit and wisdom in their self-written lyrics. Their songs vary in mood but always deliver. Take a listen. (Not sure why their website currently plays a cover of Love Shack??)

What are some of your favs??

Baby Wyatt - Kansas City Newborn Photographer

2010-04-29T19:02:00.006-05:00

Yep, you read that correctly. I also do sessions in Kansas City and enjoyed a wonderful afernoon capturing Baby Wyatt on my Easter trip. I had met the parents the year before while Trick-or-Treating with my nephews... in full costume as Cruella DeVille! I guess that didn't scare them off.

This session was particularly fun since my sister went along and assisted me. We now refer to her as the "Baby Whisperer" since she was a pro at settling Wyatt when he needed comforting.

Wyatt is in good hands - Mom and Dad are amazing people. I loved the vibe in their home... pulled together, peaceful, and welcoming. Dad serves in the military and was busy making some of the YUMMIEST looking kabobs while we were there. Mom is so easy-going and polite. Big Brother, Cooper, was also around for a few shots. What a cutie - and pretty sharp too. He knew exactly where Minnesota was on his wall map when I told him where I was from.

Here's a peak at our session. Wyatt was asleep when we arrived so we started with some sleepy shots.

Stirring and waking up...

A few shots with Cooper while baby gets changed. Isn't he adorbable?

Sibling sessions are amazing to me. Seeing how they relate, thinking of all the together-moments they have ahead of them. They have no idea how much they will share in life.

Getting sleepy again.

Aaaand the lip drops... the tell-tale sign that he's zonked out.

We had some fun with my new "baskets" I scored at Hobby Lobby.

Cooper was busy with his big-boy stuff at this point. You know... bikes, scooters, etc.

My dear and talented friend, Tammy, made this super-snuggly cocoon. I love it!

I like to make my sessions unique, but almost always do this shot. I love the artsy-ness of it.

I can't wait until my next trip to KC!!

Renew - Minnesota Photographer

2010-04-12T20:49:00.005-05:00

I started thinking about this post while driving to Kansas City over Easter weekend. The week before, Jasmine Star mentioned the word "Thankful" twice in a Twitter post and it reminded me of an Elton John song called All that I'm Allowed. I listen to an odd mix of music when I'm on a road trip and Elton John always makes an appearance. This song stirs many emotions in me... frustration, disappointment, hope, encouragement, thankfulness... and wraps up into renew.

You can listen to the song here and read the lyrics here. I love this line "The barriers get in the way but I see hope in every cloud."

I just discovered the video while searching for those links. I watched it and reflected on all the different types of people in the world. Each has their own story, their own set of struggles and their own successes. I see a connection to why I love photography and telling other peoples' stories.

So, why renew? Easter weekend for one. For Believers, a beautiful and spiritual time of year as our Savior's life is renewed. Spring for another. Getting outside after being cooped up all winter, having daylight after dinner, ambitious thoughts of spring cleaning.

So, how do we renew? Regardless of where you are in your life right now, pause to reflect and refresh. Take stock of who you are and what you are doing in life. See all that you have to be thankful for and for all that you have to offer. If you're frustrated, at a dead end, stressed out, it's probably consuming your life. (Believe me, I've been there!) Take a moment and take a deep breath... what else is there, what is GOOD? Focus on THAT. Take a day, take ten minutes... have a coffee, go for a walk, and think about THAT. Be thankful, be proud of yourself. Focus on the good and let that multiply in your life.

If things are FABULOUS in your world, take a moment to think about who you could reach out to and perk up their day.

Here are a few snapshots of what helped me to renew...

Fun with a new photo prop I purchased at Hobby Lobby - love that store! We need one in Minneapolis.

Big brother Blake always helps Brayden with the Legos.

Here's Blake tearing up the soccer field. Woot woot! He's in the green with the long black sleeves underneath.

Have you ever seen the Easter Bunny drop eggs from a HELICOPTER? That's how they roll in KC!

Brayden LOVES his bubbles. Loves them even more when I blow them and he gets to chase them.

Renew.

Baby Gavin - Minnesota Baby Photographer

2010-04-01T06:54:00.006-05:00

Posting a Sneak Peek before heading to KC for Easter Weekend with my sister and her family. I looked through the images last night and couldn't wait until I returned to post about it!

This little guy caused his mommy some troubles before he arrived... but since then, he's been nothing but adorable! Gavin is one of my Grow with Me babies so he will be having a series of sessions throughout his first year. We completed his newborn session in December and I met with the family last week for his second session. He has a calm, inquisitive personality and LOVES his Tigger! His captivating brown eyes match his big sister's. He was very alert during the session and didn't fall asleep until it was over. Big Sister, Abby, was a perfect little helper. I heard that she played "photographer" all afternoon after I left, instructing her parents and friends to "move over into the good light" before she took a photo. Love it. She's a quick study!

First, here's mommy at her maternity shoot.

Gavin was a very snuggly little newborn. Don't you LOVE all that hair? He looked soooooo comfy as he snuggled into the soft blanket when we started our session.

And here he is all grown up! OK, not really. It's so fun to see the changes just a few months makes.

See you in a few months, baby Gavin!

The Afterglow

2010-03-13T16:31:00.012-06:00

I returned home from WPPI and Las Vegas a few days ago but decided to wait a bit before posting about it. I'm very impressionable and when something interests me I say Wow! Awesome! More! And almost drown in it. My time at WPPI was worthy of that but I want to hang on to it. To let it simmer and soak and wrap my arms all around it and keep it with me.

You see, I learned so much more than new photography techniques or business ideas. I learned about me. Not in a "go find yourself" experience though. It was more than that. I learned how to look inside me as both a photographer and a person and see what I am and what I have to offer. How I can break down any barriers holding me back from offering all that I am.

Each day provided a schedule of speakers available to see. I feel like I chose the VERY BEST ONE each time!

Jesh de Rox - I knew his program would be a little different. The description said he would be sharing his experiential style of photography - Beloved. I had stumbled upon his work last year from a blog post by Tamara Lackey (see my previous post). It is different than my style but I love it. It captivates me. Take a look at his work. Your world will go silent as you feel the emotion in his photos. His 8:00am (!) presentation was just as captivating. He's quiet - yet witty and funny. You want to have coffee with him and giggle at his musings. He taught me to be more than a photographer taking a picture. He challenged me to be authentic and go deeper with my clients. Be myself, show myself so that I might see my client better. Sounds a bit obvious and easy at first. But when was the last time you were completely truthful, authentic and real? Possibly with a complete stranger (as could happen with a shoot)? Go there. He closed his presentation with a slide show of his gorgeous images... playing guitar and singing along with it. Not a dry eye in the house... in Vegas... at 10:00am. Love you, Jesh.

Jasmine Star - I stood in line for almost two hours to make sure to snag a seat at Jasmine's presentation. Yes, two hours and the room held 900 people. These people are the Rock Stars of the wedding and portrait photography world. Her presentation was entitled "Ghetto Fabulous Marketing". Check out her blog and you'll know why. Sassy and smart. She did present marketing ideas but the most important message she had was to "embrace and celebrate you... put yourself out there." Jasmine is famous for "Keeping it Real" and we all love her for it. By her example, she encourages us to do the same. If you check out my website, you'll see that I've updated it to make it more ME. Not everyone will like or connect with that. But some will. And I will be having some rock-out photo sessions with those people. WORD! Check out her blog.

Tamara Lackey - In addition to the bonus workshop (see previous post) I took with Tamara, I also attended her platform session. I knew she had more to say and I was right. Tamara is brilliant at creating a space to work in. No, I'm not talking about a pretty studio with fabulous lighting, I'm talking about the space between the photographer and the subject. Again, built on trust and connection... built on keeping it real and putting yourself out there. (Do you see this common theme building and building?) A session might look like a disaster from the parents' point of view - lots of running around and chaos - but that just might be the environment needed to capture the real child. I feel like I now have the permission to just "go there" with the kids and remove that "need to make this look like I know what I'm doing" factor. I do know what I'm doing. I'm connecting, creating a fun experience and capturing it all.

Dane Sanders - Not sure where to start with this one. I'm smiling at the memory of being there. Dane has an extensive presentation background so I knew he'd be a good presenter. I did not know that I'd want him to be a member of my family forever and ever. At first he seems normal and harmless. Then he is challenging you to go off of automatic and really be present in this time and this day. Scary. But you feel his warmth. You feel safe. It's not until you are well on your way along his journey that you realize what a visionary he is. Thought provoking, sincere. And yet very funny! He taught me about invitation and connection and commitment. He challenged me to go where I haven't gone before. He is developing a breed of photographers that will create an experience so different from what most people currently think of a portrait session. I just looked through my notes from his session and I had scribbled in the sidelines "I love this new world I've discovered". Yep, I do. His session ended with a list of questions (beautifully set to a video - remember how I said visionary?). I will continually ask myself those questions as I go on this journey. I had the pleasure and honor of spending a few moments with him afterwards. Thanks, Dane, for your time, your message and your challenges. Sigh.

(Fellow photogs - we are working on bringing him to MN for a workshop!)

Meeting Dane...

Mike Colon and Jim Davis-Hicks - Mike commands $20,000 for a wedding photo session. Now that I have your attention, listen up. In every single session I attended, the speaker/photographer talked about giving back. This particular session was focused solely on that. Mike openly spoke of his faith and desire to give back. Jim is the founder of Thirst Relief International (and also a brilliant photographer). He also spoke of his faith - to the extent that his motivator to start the effort was based on a direct message from God. Deep, yes. But right on track with my beliefs so I, again, was captivated. They shared info and photos from a recent mission trip. But this was not your average mission trip. Fourteen hand-picked photographers (including Jason Thon from MSP!), models, and couture dresses designed specifically for the trip made the journey to install biosand filters and have the photo shoot of a lifetime. Go here to see the breathtaking images and go here to donate to Thirst Relief International. Do it! Mike and Jim, THANK YOU for sharing your faith and inspiration.

Deep breath now. Whew. Exhausting stuff. In addition to all of this, there was a HUGE tradeshow to visit. I learned of new vendors that can add value to my work. I'm so proud to the have best print shop right here in my backyard - go WHCC!! I can shop local and still work with the best print shop in the country. Love it.

There were also speakers at some of the booths and I stumbled across none other than local photog Jamie Schultz. Not only a talented artist but nice, nice, nice! So glad I stopped to say hi to her. So thankful for her encouraging words.

I shared all of this loveliness with some WONDERFUL new photog friends from around the country - and Canada. A few from right here in Minnesota! (Hey Ashley and Tracie!) I will continue to connect with them building friendship as we grow in our photographer lives.

I'm so excited about what the WPPI experience has added to my journey. I'm proud to be a part of this wonderful community of photographers.

Stay tuned to see where this takes me. Better yet, come along for the ride.

Viva Las Vegas!

2010-03-06T00:53:00.004-06:00

WOW, what a day! I am in Las Vegas for the next five days attending the WPPI Conference... the largest professional photographic convention and trade show in the country. I will be attending a variety of workshops taught by the best in the business. I think my head might burst from everything I will be learning!

Today I attended an all day *bonus* workshop taught by two of my photography idols, Tamara Lackey and Audrey Woulard. I woke up this morning SO excited that this day had finally arrived and SO nervous about meeting them. If you take a look at their work, you'll know why. It was, in a word, AWESOME.

I can't wait to see what else is in store... and to bring it all back to my clients. Stay tuned!

Little Lettows - Minnesota Children's Photographyer

2010-02-25T20:46:00.003-06:00

Love it when I arrive for a session and the main attraction opens the door with a sly grin... I can skip the warm-up and get straight to some fun! The weather was yet again not cooperating but we worked around it with mom and dad nearby holding their jackets. The park we went to had HUGE trees that protected us from the drizzle and I can't wait to go back again on a sunny day.

An older sister/younger brother relationship is so sweet to observe. They tease each other, but there is an underlying "taking care of each other" feeling. I've known their parents for quite awhile and it's so cool to see flashes of their parents' personalities in them. (For the most part anyway, Tom.) : )

I loved this old fence...

Andy + Annette - Minnesota Portrait Photographer

2010-02-19T19:36:00.003-06:00

This session also took place last fall. Annette wanted new photos for Christmas cards so we ventured to Lebanon Hills park on a Saturday morning. But we had to be quick... Andy was meeting the guys for a football game!

I first met Annette twelve years ago (time flies) when I was going through a tough time. We lived in the same apartment complex and she also worked in the office there. It was nice to have a friendly face in a new place. We became friends and coincidentally ended up purchasing homes in nearby neighborhoods when we moved out of the apartments. Little did I know what a blessing that would be! She is my favorite shopping buddy - "But do you LOVE it?" she'll ask... and her tiny feet fit into the shoes on display so I can quickly see what they look like "on". She's always up for a movie or trip to Ring Mountain Creamery for a gelato treat - even when the chain on her bike is broken - and is my best sounding board for life and business decisions. Her husband, Andy, is my go-to Handy Man, mixes a mean cocktail, and cracks me up with his witty humor. LOVE you guys!

Little Lucas - Minnesota Children's Photographer

2010-02-15T19:32:00.004-06:00

We envisioned a beautiful fall day with a little sun and leaves gently falling to the ground... what we got was COLD and WIND. Lucas hung in there as long as he could at Lake Nokomis but we eventually decided to finish the session indoors.

He was a quiet little guy at first, calmly looking around at his new surroundings. As he took it all in, his playfulness came out as he ran on the dock and played in the leaves.

The family recently moved to the area and I just love their home. It is a perfect canvas for photography... clean and modern. I've recruited them as a "test" family for when I have new techniques I want to try out. I'll be calling you in a couple of months!!

Fall Back - Minnesota Photographer

2010-02-03T19:48:00.005-06:00

Playing catch-up! I love going back and looking at past sessions... reliving the adventures of the day. You've seen these faces on the blog before, my sister and her family. The session took place on a gorgeous fall day in Shawnee, Kansas. The boys were as adventurous as ever - running, jumping and exploring the area.

The "sitting nice" picture:

And the "this is reality" picture. Of course, I always like the "reality" photos the most.

I can't wait until our next visit! We always have so much fun together.

Happy Holidays from ColorMeJill Photography

2009-12-23T06:31:00.011-06:00

Peace and joy... two words with so much meaning this time of year, but sometimes difficult to live out with the hustle and bustle of the holidays. This blog has been quiet recently but behind the scenes, I've been so very busy. The Fall Sale was a big hit - thank you to everyone who booked a session and worked through the questionable weather to get all the sessions in.

It was drizzling by the end of this session - can you believe it??

This little girl welcomed a baby brother...

... and here he is. So very peaceful.

I have many, many photos to post so check back next week! For now, these people are anxiously waiting for me to get to their house before the snowstorm does. (Be there soon mom and dad!)

Wishing you Peace and Joy this holiday season.

A Walk in the Park -- Minnesota Children's Photographer

2009-10-10T19:39:00.005-05:00

This session ran a little long... because we were having so much fun! A great way to spend a beautiful fall morning.

How could you ever say no these beautiful brown eyes?

I love images of families having fun together.

Little Esther is so sweet.

He might have licked all the caramel off first... but he did eat the apple too!

A moment with mommy...

Thanks for the fun morning... and the caramel apple treat!

Fall Sale!

2009-09-15T20:53:00.009-05:00

Things are in high gear for scheduling Fall sessions. I have only six sessions left to fill through the end of the year. The leaves seem to be changing early this year and the longer hours of twilight are providing excellent photography conditions.

If you are interested in holiday photos, contact me soon to secure your spot. The last day for holiday photo sessions will be November 21st.

Book now to receive 20% off any session type.
(Excludes Event Sessions. Session must be reserved by September 26th and take place before December 31st to receive the discount.)

You can view open days on the Schedule tab at ColorMeJillPhotography.com.

Just a few images from last fall...

Summer Fun

2009-09-07T21:02:00.006-05:00

Oh, summer. These photos were taken a few years ago with my point and shoot but I just had to post them... they shout SUMMER FUN. Make sure to capture some of your own snapshots of the lazy, hazy days of summer before they are gone.

He had no idea how silly he looks in the goggles!

So Happy Together

2009-08-26T21:59:00.005-05:00

I was really looking forward to this session... Jess and Nikki have the best smiles and even better laughs. I giggle just thinking about them. They are friends of mine and are expecting a baby in January (Can't wait until then maternity and newbors sessions!) so it was the perfect time to capture some moments with just the two of them before their world changes.

The session wouldn't be complete without their sweet dog, Vrgil. No, that is not a typo. His name is Vrgil. Sounds like an old farmer from South Dakota! (Nikki and I are both originally from South Dakota.)

Additional photos from their session can be viewed on the website www.ColorMeJillPhotography.com under Galleries, Couples. Take a look!

The NEW ColorMeJill Photography Website!

2009-08-12T20:23:00.006-05:00

I am thrilled to launch my new website http://www.colormejillphotography.com/!

Visit the site for detailed information on my photography style, types of sessions offered, pricing, available dates, and image galleries.

THANK YOU to my friends and family who encouraged me along the way to accomplish this. I am so excited to have an informational place to send my clients.

Be sure to continue to check out this blog. I will be posting promotional pricing and special events that you won't want to miss. To make it even easier for you to keep up-to-date on the latest news, I've added a subscription feature to the blog. Look over there to the right-hand side... you can sign up to receive email updates when a new post is made. (You can also subscribe to a feed - but then remember to check your feeds.)

Enjoy the new site!

Freeman Fun

2009-08-12T19:34:00.004-05:00

I joined the Freemans at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum for a beautiful summer evening session. The kids have been there many times so they had fun showing me all the spectacular views. What awesome tour guides! Their mom is a dear friend of mine so any time I get to spend with her is a true blessing - always bringing a smile to my face. I admire her firm, yet easy attitude with her kids. (See additional images on the website ColorMeJill Photography.)

Cooking Fun for Kids

2009-08-12T18:04:00.002-05:00

My friend, Kim, shared this fun site with me... Gourmet Mom on the Go. I can't wait to visit my nephews and try some of the recipes.

The Look

2009-08-11T21:05:00.005-05:00

Today the new brand is revealed! I've been working with former colleague and talented local designer, Jeni Geiser, to create the look for ColorMeJill Photography. She did an excellent job of capturing the fine-tuning my vision. Thanks Jeni!

The new logo:

The seal:

Baby Sydney

2009-08-11T20:53:00.005-05:00

Don't let the pictures fool you... baby Sydney was awake through most of her photo shoot! What a beautiful baby girl. Looks just like her mommy.

And baby makes three.

Linda's Maternity Session

2009-08-08T10:25:00.003-05:00

This is my friend Linda's first pregnancy so we needed to capture how cute she looks - she still fits into her jeans! She dabbles in photography so it was fun comparing notes and sharing ideas.

Baby Connor

2009-08-06T21:30:00.007-05:00

What a sweet little guy. He didn't sleep much during his session... probably keeping an eye on his adorable big sister.

Catch Me if You Can

2009-05-31T20:46:00.004-05:00

My oldest nephew, Blake, can be elusive. He was in school when Brayden and I had the photo shoot mentioned below, but I did manage to get a few shots of him while doing family photo shoots last fall.

Watching some c-r-a-z-y ducks in the pond.

I love the contrast of how little he is, compared to this HUGE tree.

I don’t think I’ve ever seen a leaf this big.

“Yes, little one, I am right behind you.”

Picture Perfect

2009-05-31T10:49:00.005-05:00

My nephew, Brayden, and I were hanging out in the backyard for this photo shoot. He is a photographer’s dream—usually—and on this day, certainly. He goes from being completely interested in me and my camera (inquisitive looks) to showing me the airplanes overhead (delight) and his new skill of “weed whacking” (determination).

"Look at the airplane, Aunt Jill!"

"My daddy taught me this... it's called weed whacking."

Cheers!

2009-04-30T21:52:00.003-05:00

Just a few shots from the Childress Vineyards in North Carolina. I could have relaxed there all day... the stone building and pathways, the green rolling hills. the flowing wine...

Playful Little Pete

2009-04-30T21:13:00.003-05:00

Pete's photos were taken on a beautiful day in North Carolina. His playful spirit was as uplifting as the sunny day we shared. A friend's son, he joined our group on the last day of our visit to the Charlotte area. He sat (somewhat) patiently through a wine tasting, then entertained us with songs and his xylophone.

Blown Away by Drew and Annabelle

2009-04-26T19:31:00.007-05:00

This particular fall day was unseasonable cold and windy (we get the complete mix here in Minnesota!) but Drew and Annabelle were troopers! They were full of energy and excitement as we ventured outside in the strong winds... "Hey look at this! Come over here!" The only thing better than their energy level was Drew asking me "Can you come back here again?" when I was leaving. Too cute.

Abby at the Apple Orchard

2009-04-22T20:58:00.007-05:00

Playing catch up here… on a late summer day I traveled to a small apple orchard with a friend’s family. It was unseasonably hot and sunny. A little warm for the adults but just fine for little Abby who was totally at ease with her paparazzi tagalong.

Life Lesson from a Little Guy

2009-03-29T19:36:00.002-05:00

A group of kids were having t-ball practice at the gym today. I watched them every time I rounded that end of the track that overlooked their practice area. They were about 5-6 years old and one little guy caught my attention. He was hustling after a ball - wearing Jeter Yankees jersey and a baseball cap. All decked out. Then I noticed he was wearing a back brace under his jersey. As I continued to watch him, I saw that he was the most focused, on-the-ball, player on the “field”. He paid attention, tried his hardest and really enjoyed it. Back brace, or no back brace, he was playing ball.

What an uplifting way to be reminded to focus on abilities instead of disabilities.

The Boys of Summer

2008-09-23T21:16:00.008-05:00

The calendar says summer is officially over. No way! I was reliving it tonight by looking at some favorite moments over the summer with B & B. Just some snapshots...

Little B inspecting a bug on the sidewalk... he always has a smile for me.

Pizza hot of the grill! Big B carried a chair across the lawn and up on the deck so there were enough chairs for everyone... but then both boys wanted to sit on the big bench!

Big B helps with my "garden".

On a walk through Blackhawk Park.

Big B contemplates his next move at Nickelodeon Universe, Mall of America.

Our next adventure together will probably be Halloween. I can't wait!

Galveston, oh Galveston.

2008-09-17T20:33:00.002-05:00

I traveled to Galveston, TX earlier this year for work. While watching a TV report in the aftermath of the hurricane, I recognized the one building still standing in the background. All of the shops and restaurants we had driven by and stopped at were in a pile of rubble surrounding the reporter. It made me want to revisit the photos I had taken while there…

My Garden

2008-09-14T10:38:00.005-05:00

It's a wet and rainy weekend so I decided to snap some photos of the raindrops on my tomato plant. I can't believe how many tomatoes the plant has produced! Next summer I am definitey going to plant a few more vegetables.

I'm Back!

2008-09-04T19:24:00.002-05:00

Whew, time flies! Obviously I didn't have the dedication to blog this summer.
Fall, a time for change, is fast approaching and this blog will be changing too. Not that it had established much of an identity, but now it will. I have decided to dedicate it to one of my passions - photography! Come along for the ride, it should be quite interesting...

- ColorMeJill

Boxed In

2008-02-15T22:45:00.007-06:00

I upgraded my mail sorting/filing system. I used to have folders in a basket. It worked pretty well but the folders were getting a little rough around the edges. And if I didn't sort the mail for a few days, it piled up in the front of the basket uncontrollably.

BEFORE AFTER

The box is from Target. A bargain at $9.99 since it comes complete with with the hanging folders and tabs. I printed the labels on cardstock and cut them to fit the tab holders.

I like having the cover to close it all up. I can either put new, unsorted mail in the first hanging folder or set it on the flat top until I get around to sorting it. And I love having the clean countertop.

More Valentines

2008-02-15T07:35:00.005-06:00

Just had to share... this is the chocolate man from my friend (not sure why he is "black" with "blonde" hair!):

and he was wrapped in this awesome monkey-themed wrapping paper:

I love it when my nephews sign the cards themselves. Brayden can't write yet so I usually just get a scribble from him. Maybe he was napping while this card was being signed.

Love is in the air...

2008-02-14T21:35:00.002-06:00

or is it? I asked a couple co-workers what they were getting their wives for Valentine's Day. Their answers:
1- Well, the kids make cards so I don't have to get her one.
2 - Oh, she buys gifts for herself.

Hmmm. I think I'd rather be single than have a Valentine like that! And these are nice, fun guys.

I know that if I asked a few of my friends what they did to celebrate, they'd say nothing. Is it that everyone is just too busy? Is it that I was unusually spoiled in the relationships I've been in?

I heard someone complaining about all the jewelry commercials on tv recently. So that's not your thing... no need to complain! Simply fold a piece of paper in half and cut out a heart shape- just like you used to in grade school -and write three things you love about your mate. How hard is that? It would probably be more appreciated than a diamond necklace, and without a dent in your wallet.

Instead of continuing my rant against people who don't know how to, or just don't take the time to slow down and show some love, I'll share some.

My valentines today consisted of a card and pretty pair of earrings from my parents, a card from my nephews, and a "rich, dark, and handsome" chocolate man from my friend. (wrapped in the best monkey paper!) None very fancy, all very nice. They all made me smile and feel loved.

I sent a couple of cards, a few emails, and gave little bags of chocolates to my co-workers. Simple. Fun.

Happy Valentine's Day to you too.

Let the music move you!

2008-02-10T19:38:00.000-06:00

Inspired by the Grammy's tonight... a boy just sang Let it Be as a Beatles tribute. Isn't it funny how music takes you back to when you have listened to it before? It marks a time, a place, a feeling so realistically...

I lived in Norway for a year and was very homesick. My friend, Carrie, flew over to visit me for a week -the best week I had while in Norway. On the way home from the clubs one night (morning!) we ended up at an after-party where they were having a sing-along and they sang this song. The Norwegians were surprised we English speaking girls did not know all of the words. A few days later we cried and clung to each other at the airport when we had to say goodbye. (Yes, very dramatic but we were both going through a lot at the time.) On the drive home from the airport Let it Be came on the radio. Tears rolled down my face as I thought about Carrie. So much that my thougtful Norwegian boyfriend had to pull the car over and give me a hug.

Last night Carrie and I were at a piano bar with some friends and we joked about requesting Let it Be. Here we are sharing a warm drink last night.

I have some CDs that I can't listen to any more. I know all of the words to all of the songs, but at the time I was learning those words, I wasn't in the happiest place and hearing the songs takes me back to that place. The music probably helped me through those times, but I still don't like to listen.

On the flip side, isn't it the best to hear a song that takes you to a happy place?! One that screamed through the stereo as you and your friends drove around town or were getting ready for a night on the town. Usually a popular song at the time and has endured to pop up every once in awhile. Love that.

There are also songs you find that inspire you just for the song, not necessarily related to a time, place, or event. I love those songs too. You're having a bad day at work, you're pissed at the person who just cut you off in traffic... then you hear the song and everything is ok, just for a little bit.

I recently found a song called Happy Girl by Martina McBride. Obviously not a stretch that it can take me to a happy place.

Carrie and I are getting ready for a trip to Vegas. On my to-do list this week: Create a playlist for our trip. Maybe I'll include Let it Be!

Ho, Ho, Ho

2007-12-18T22:50:00.000-06:00

Feeling a little Christmassy tonight. Just wrapped up some little gifts for co-workers. The little packages turned out pretty cute. If I had time to figure out how to post photos, I would. It's too late though and I need to get to bed.

It's hard to figure out if gifts should be given at work. And then what to actually give! You don't want to go overboard - it's just awkward for everyone. I stressed about it for awhile but then decided on a few things. And I'm glad I did. I know it's not necessary and I don't expect anything from them, but I see these people every day. More than I see my friends and family. And most of them have been a great addition to my world this year. The ones that weren't aren't getting gifts. Ha ha.

The "girls" are getting a little package of notecards. The cards were made with photos I took at the Como Conservatory so there is a little personalization to it. It was inexpensive, yet thoughtful. Just what it should be. I felt happy wrapping them up, not stressed so I think I made the right decision.

(Sidebar: I have a zillion things on my to-do list these days. I pause while reading each item right before I do it. If I don't feel like it will bring some happiness and joy to my Christmas season, it's not getting done. So my house is quite messy right now!)

The "bosses" are both foodies so they are getting giftcards to a fabulous cooking store and a tin of my homemade CARE-amels.

I can't wait to deliver them all tomorrow!

Testing, testing, 1 2 3

2007-12-16T19:05:00.000-06:00

Welcome! I've been planning on starting my blog for a few months. I thought I had many fabulous ideas for topics, etc. but was too damn busy to get one started. Then I found out a former boss - now far away acquaintance - had a blog and have been reading it lately. (She is one of the wittiest writers I've ever read. ) While in blog world I read a few other blogs and found out that a LOT of people have the same fabulous topic ideas. So I might as well get started and stop waiting for that perfect moment.

Now that I've figured this out - enough for now anyway - I need to get back to my mile long to-do list.

I promise my next post will be more interesting.