Karla Marie and Photography

Lifestyle Photography: Week 4 {the finale}

2011-07-11T19:58:00.000-05:00

Part 1: Thematic and Conceptual Shooting

For the love of the game, my husband does not think twice about heading out to the course even if the temps are 100+ in the afternoon. He loves the heat. And he likes the wide open fairways, as more sensible people are enjoying the air conditioned indoors, and are downing icy, cold drinks.

Part 2: Getting into the Picture

Aaarrgghh. I won't even get into the challenges of this assignment. Except for the dead battery in the remote trigger. And the sun, which insisted on moving across the sky faster than I could finish. And all the little things I noticed when I saw the images on the computer. Did I learn anything? Oh, yes.

Stay-cation

Enjoying the morning sunshine in my driveway at 7 AM.

Thank you to Brooke Snow and fellow photogs for a thoroughly enjoyable learning experience. I'm sorry to see it end.

Lifestyle Photography: Week 3

2011-07-04T20:33:00.000-05:00

Part 1: Conceptual Contrast

This week, Brooke Snow showed us how to incorporate elements of contrast within the image. We all want to have compelling, interesting photographs and this is another factor for me to keep in mind.

Shopping for Shorts for Larry, Android Phone, Vignette App

Even though I took this with the camera in my cellphone, I did think about the composition. It was impossible to see the screen in the bright light, but in the end I thought the contrast of the reflections and the poster through the window was interesting.

50 mm lens

The human mark against the beauty of nature fascinates me.

17-85 mm lens

I waited for her to move into the patch of sunlight, taking advantage of the contrast of light and shadow.

Part 2: The Decisive Moment

Slow down and wait for it, wait for it . . .
Waiting for that decisive moment is truly a challenge. I am so afraid that I will miss something special if I don't keep pressing that shutter. But Brooke encouraged us to watch and wait, to only take three images (did she mean 30?) and post the best one.

17-85 mm

Her increasing ease in the water is a joy to behold.

This week, I did find myself thinking more, taking more time. It's not always clear to me why I find a scene compelling, so this practice forced me to be more thoughtful and deliberate.

Lifestyle Photography: Week 2

2011-06-27T20:42:00.000-05:00

Part 1: Point of View

Why did I choose to photograph flowers? I have no idea. It is not a strong subject for me, but I thought it would provide a lot of options for this assignment. Let's just say, it was challenging. And I learned a lot. Such as, get bigger blooms.

Image 1 - First Attempt {Lensbaby Composer}

Images 2,3,4 - Other Points of View

The Intruder - He inserts himself whenever he has a chance.

Part 2: Less is More

The Scene - We have rediscovered the joys of the dollar theater.

Telling the Story in Three Images

Telling the Story, Part 1

2011-06-20T20:13:00.005-05:00

Taking the plunge, flying by the seat of my pants, keeping mild panic at bay - this is what it felt like in my first week as a participant in Brooke Snow's Lifestyle photography class.

The adventure in learning began during a particularly full week, leaving me with barely 24 hours to complete the assignment. I am not sure I have ever felt so squeezed for time, facing I project I had been eagerly anticipating.

So Fathers' Day became crunch day. We spent the evening poolside with our granddaughter, Piper. I hope the images help you see the fun, and the special relationship between her and her grandfather.

Character/Detail Shots

Character/Conflict Shots

This was hard to pull off. These images convey some emotion, but I feel they lack the element of tension that conflict brings. Something to work on . . .

The Pool is Open

2011-06-17T14:19:00.000-05:00

hot sun
+

cool water
+

pink Minnie Mouse swimsuit
=

splash into summer 2011!

" Your joy will be like a river overflowing its banks!"

John 16, The Message

Tiny Dancers

2011-05-22T20:03:00.000-05:00

little girls
tiny dancers in a line
like birds on a wire

some tentative
hesitant
others confident
sure footed

unbearably dear
each and every one

Photo info: android camera phone, vignette app

Had to use the camera that was with me; the other one was left at home.

Breakfast of Champions

2011-05-02T19:06:00.000-05:00

This is not my usual breakfast, but I do eat it sometime during most every day. It's nice to realize it isn't a nutrition or diet buster to consume basic good food that also happens to be delicious.

You should try it!

Raw Fudge

1/2 cup coconut oil
1/2 cup cocoa (not a mix)
1/4 maple syrup (preferably grade B)
1 teaspoon vanilla

Combine in a blender. Pour into a loaf pan. Refrigerate until firm. Cut and enjoy.

Variations:  Some like to add flaxseed meal, or almond butter, or other ingredients.

Notes: Coconut oil can be solid at cool room temperature, so melt on low heat, if necessary. I usually reduce the maple syrup to 3 tablespoons. And I usually double the recipe. It doesn't last long at our house.

Also, the fudge can be poured into silicon mini muffin pans. Freeze and pop out fudge. Store in freezer or refrigerator.

Coconut oil has many health benefits, so you can enjoy this decadent treat, free of guilt.

Some links you may find helpful:

Weston Price Foundation

Nourishing Traditions Cookbook

Then God said, "I've given you
      every sort of seed-bearing plant on Earth
   And every kind of fruit-bearing tree,
      given them to you for food.
   To all animals and all birds,
      everything that moves and breathes,
   I give whatever grows out of the ground for food."
      And there it was.
Genesis 1:29-30, The Message

Girls Getaway

2011-03-14T20:38:00.000-05:00

We whisked Kathy away for a special birthday celebration.

She had no idea until we showed up.

She is possessed with an extra generous heart, bubbling with fun. So we tried to give her some.

You can see if we succeeded.

I was wedded to my camera for most of our time together.

I poured all of the images into this video. This was my first effort at a slide show/video of this sort. It's pretty rough, and all of the images are straight out of the camera (no editing.)

Hope you enjoy it.

And are inspired to try something like this yourself.

I used Windows Movie Maker, a free download.

Creating this project caused me to relive the delights of the weekend, and to experience a renewed gratitude for all of the dear women in my life.

The heartfelt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume and incense.

Proverbs 27:9

I am five now!

2011-03-05T11:06:00.000-06:00

We had a birthday celebration this week.

Five years ago,this little one showed up three months ahead of schedule. Teeny, tiny baby girl was a special guest at the NICU for only 51 days. Woo hoo!

Holding Piper (five weeks old) for the first time.

Then came heart surgery, breathing challenges, sensory issues, multiple hospitalizations.

Look at her now! Her mother is her greatest advocate, making sure she receives the extra programs and care her special needs require.

Big sighs of gratitude.

". . . I am fearfully and wonderfully made . . ." Psalm 139:14

Love and Loss

2011-02-28T15:40:00.000-06:00

My dear Aunt Aileen Foy Brundage died on February 21, 2011.

One of ten children, with 21 nieces and nephews, she seemed to be everyone's favorite. And each one was her favorite.

She was stricken with tuberculosis when she was young. Along with two of her sisters (one was my mother), she spent many years in a TB hospital. She married for the first time when she was 40 years old. Edward Brundage was a widower, a kind man, older man.

She and my mother were very close, and they lived together for many years after the death of Uncle Ed. The inevitable changes that aging brings was hard on them as they lost their independence and their roles changed.

My mother Mary and Aunt Aileen

A trip to Rochester, NY in November was the last time my sister and I saw her. She had declined a lot in the recent months, and I did wonder if I would see her again.

Sadly, I did not. We weren't able to attend the funeral, but we did write a eulogy which was read by my brother. And in a display of how technology can enrich our lives, I watched the live feed of the service from my home in Texas, and felt connected to my grieving family. And my daughter watched from Alabama.

The simple eulogy below is not a record of her life, but our inadequate expression of the difference our special aunt made in lives of my sister and brothers.

Aunt Aileen and Mother

Dear friends and family,

We truly regret we cannot be with you to share in the celebration of the life of Aileen Foy Brundage.. If we cannot honor Aunt Aileen with our presence, we hope to do so with our words.

This is a room full of people who loved and cared about Aileen Brundage. We want to tell you a little about how much she meant to us.

When our father relocated our family to Miami, Florida in 1959, we were suddenly many miles from all our relatives. Later, Aunt Aileen told us she thought she'd never see our mother again. Instead, we found ourselves looking forward to her long winter visits. She truly was a bright light in our lives. How she put up with four young children in a tiny house is beyond us. But she loved us, played endless games of password and scrabble, and gave our exhausted mother a break.

When she married Uncle Ed and came to live a few miles from us, we could not have been happier. By this time, we had gotten over the shock of having to share her with someone else. A few months ago, we came across their love letters, and discovered a whole new side of our Aunt Aileen. Who knew she liked going to the pool hall, climbed a grapefruit tree, and sometimes went by the name "Scarlette"?

Aunt Aileen had a delightful sense of humor. She was amused by so many things, especially herself. In fact, it wasn’t easy to get a good photo of her because she was always laughing and talking.

She loved wearing colorful clothing. Pink and red together? No problem. Even better with orange.

We all know about her enthusiasm for learning, and how she kept a stack of maps and reference books by her chair. Telling her a story about a trip would have her reaching for her atlas and mapping out the itinerary.

She had zest for life. With her vibrant personality, she was engaged in life, and seemed to be wringing every little bit of joy out of it.

As the keeper of our history, she endlessly repeated funny stories about us. She probably never knew that she was communicating to us that we mattered, that we were important to her. She was always interested in us and what we were doing.

And when our children were born, she began a new catalog of sweet stories, collecting more little moments that most people wouldn't care about. She did that for all of us, and we will miss it.

The bottom line is, she loved us and we loved her. One of our biggest fans has gone ahead, and we can just imagine what it will be like when we see her again. She will want to know all about what we have been doing, where we have been and then will launch into one of her favorite family stories.

This is my favorite image of her,

sandwiched between my mother and her little brother, Jack.

Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of one of His saints.

Psalm 116:15

Twelve Months Old

2011-02-09T12:29:00.000-06:00

Vera is the darling daughter of Craig and Cheryl Callon. I've had the privilege of photographing her several times in her short life. On this day, we were celebrating her first birthday.

It was not as much fun for her as it was for us.

So we followed her lead.

But Vera was happiest with Mommy. And who can blame her.

Happy Birthday, sweet girl!

Running into 2011

2011-01-01T12:38:00.000-06:00

Not looking back . . .

not stuck in regret for the past

or fear of the future.

Running into 2011

with hope and trust.

Happy New Year, Friends!

Trust God from the bottom of your heart;

don't try to figure out everything on your own.

Proverbs 3, The Message

Popcorn Attack

2010-11-23T08:04:00.000-06:00

Having a sister like Claudia is another reason to be grateful. (Check out the gratitude group on flickr.)

She is such a good sport to go along with my photographic adventures.

During our stay in Rochester earlier in the month, she happily agreed to come with me to the beach at Lake Ontario. I was looking for a shot of flying gulls against the water and sky.

Heading out the door, I shoved a handful of leftover popcorn into a ziplock bag.

"Here, Claudia, this will attract the birds!"

It started out so well. See how happy she is!

"This is fun!" she said. She always did like animals.

But then things took a different turn.

It was like a scene from The Birds. She told me later that she was a little frightened.

So, she made a getaway. By this time, I was laughing so hard I couldn't focus.

Now, how could you not love a sister like Claudia? I do.

Big Sis, Lil' Bro

2010-11-22T08:19:00.000-06:00

For the month of November, I am participating in a group on Flickr, 30 Days/Gratitude '10.

Though I am a little behind, it has been thoroughly enjoyable. It has helped me stay focused on the many, many gifts and blessings in my life
every
single
day.

Here is today's post:

Grateful for children in my life.

This image, far from the best in the series I am working on, grabs my heart.

Maybe it's the big sister, with little brother wandering out of the frame.
Maybe it's the camera.

Maybe it's because I am a big sister with a camera.

What grabs your thankful heart today?

John and Corinne Moriarty

2010-11-21T11:47:00.002-06:00

When I was in Rochester, NY earlier this month, I met John and Corinne while visiting my mother and aunt. They are no longer able to live by themselves and recently became residents at a very nice home.

John was sitting across the table from me. He looked like a banker on a break. He was reading the newspaper while my sister, Claudia, and I chatted with my mother and aunt.

He caught my eye. Leaning over to me, he said, "Something is not right here. I don't know what it is, but something is wrong. It is kind of like deja vu."

One of the hardest, saddest part of aging can be the dementia with which many older people struggle. A few minutes later, he said, "I'd like to talk with you when you have a chance. Something is wrong here and I'd like to talk with you about it." I told him I would, pretty certain he wouldn't recall our conversation.

My aunt said something about his wife Corinne, but my mother reminded her that sometimes couples are not together, that both may not need to be at the facility. Now, both my mother and aunt have dementia, so conversations are not exactly linear, but this was the gist of it.

Well, a few minutes later, Corinne came rolling up in her wheel chair.

When John saw her, his eyes lit up and they started an animated conversation. It turns out that Corinne went to school with one of my uncles, and knows my mother and aunt.

After a few minutes, it was time for lunch. John took hold of Corinne's wheel chair and off they went to the dining room.

The next day, we had another chance to see them, and I am so glad we did.

This couple is #2 and 3 in my 100 strangers project. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at www.100Strangers.com.

Love never dies. Inspired speech will be over some day....understanding will reach its limit. Trust steadily in God, hope unswervingly, love extravagantly. And the best of these is love. I Corinthians 13, The Message

Trick or Treat?

2010-10-31T13:09:00.005-05:00

This is not a discussion about the good and bad of celebrating Halloween.

As I child, I loved dressing up and going out with my siblings and friends.
And later, when fall festivals and alternative Halloween activities became available, we still took our children into the neighborhood for treats.

Yesterday, I lugged home a big bag of candy from Walmart.
We are ready for the dozens of children who will scream at us tonight, "Trick or treat!!"

Last night, I persuaded Larry, my long suffering husband, photo assistant and driver, to go with me scouting Halloween decorations.
I recently decided to focus on a project of shooting quirky, decorated homes, and this is the perfect time of year to get started.

So here is what we found in the hour before sunset.

Driving down Garland Avenue, I spotted some orange and black out of the corner of my eye.
"Turn around, driver!"
We could hardly take in the explosion of Halloween goodness in this yard.
Mr. Ramsey does this every October, though he told us a heart attack this year meant that he couldn't do as much.
This is the more subdued version.
He and his wife expect 2,000 - 3.000 visitors tonight.

He also does it up big at Christmas.
We will be back.

Here are some other treasures we found.

Whether you greet little ones at your door,
or hide in the back of your house with all of your lights off,
or go out for dinner,
or watch the World Series,
have a sweet evening.

The Woman and the Grape

2010-10-20T08:02:00.003-05:00

Jody is truly a Renaissance woman.

While I was preparing to write this post, I was mulling over all her areas of interest and expertise:

gardener
cook
arranger of flowers
musician and vocalist
teacher
business woman
foundation board chair
Bible study leader
fitness and wellness expert
source of inspiration and encouragement
hostess with the mostest
wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister
kind and generous friend

She can dive into her pantry and refrigerator and produce an impromptu meal for six or more faster than anyone I know. And it will be delicious.

I have heard that she has driven a truck on a construction site. I believe it.

And if this weren't enough, she is classy and beautiful.

On this day, she kicked off her Christian Louboutin pumps, grabbed her vintage apron, and dug her hands into a pile of wild grapes. They had been gathered from Thunder Ranch and were waiting to be made into jam.

Jody makes it look so easy. I've never canned a day in my life, and I was in awe, watching the process unfold.

Here is how she did it.
Plus her secret ingredients: zest for life and all things growing, and the joy of capturing the delicious summer flavor of a wild grape to share with friends.

6 cups prepared fruit, about 4 lb. fully ripe grapes

1 cup water

1 box SURE.JELL Fruit Pectin

1/2 tsp. butter or margarine

7-1/2 cups sugar, measured into separate bowl

make it

BRING boiling-water canner, half full with water, to simmer. Wash jars and screw bands in hot soapy water; rinse with warm water. Pour boiling water over flat lids in saucepan off the heat. Let stand in hot water until ready to use. Drain well before filling.

SLIP skins from grapes. Finely chop or grind skins; set aside. Mix grape pulp and water in saucepan. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer 5 min. Press through sieve to remove seeds. Combine skins and pulp. Measure exactly 6 cups prepared fruit into 6- or 8-qt. saucepot.

STIR in pectin. Add butter to reduce foaming. Bring mixture to full rolling boil (a boil that doesn't stop bubbling when stirred) on high heat, stirring constantly. Stir in sugar. Return to full rolling boil and boil exactly 1 min., stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Skim off any foam with metal spoon.

LADLE immediately into prepared jars, filling to within 1/8 inch of tops. Wipe jar rims and threads. Cover with two-piece lids. Screw bands tightly. Place jars on elevated rack in canner. Lower rack into canner. (Water must cover jars by 1 to 2 inches. Add boiling water, if necessary.) Cover; bring water to gentle boil. Process 10 min. Remove jars and place upright on towel to cool completely. After jars cool, check seals by pressing middles of lids with finger. (If lids spring back, lids are not sealed and refrigeration is necessary.)

You called in distress and I delivered you; I answered you in the secret places of thunder. Psalm 81:7

The Cows and the Mamas

2010-10-16T11:51:00.000-05:00

Smack dab in the middle of the bustling suburb of Plano, there is a family owned ranch.
It is a delightful surprise for those who don't know it's there, and just happen upon it on their way to somewhere else.

On her travels to and from preschool, Piper looks for the cows and the mamas.

You would call them "llamas."

Now that cooler temps are here, we've taken some time on Friday afternoons to stop and visit.

And just to give you an idea how this close this bit of nature is to the hustle and bustle . . .

At one point, I asked Piper to, "Stand here, please, so I can get you with the llamas." Not what I had in mind.

PS. My editor just informed me these are alpacas, not llamas.
There goes the cute name.

"Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten in God's sight." (Luke 12:6; cf. Matthew 10:29)

Goin' down to Houston

2010-10-01T17:28:00.000-05:00

On Friday, I flew down to Houston for the weekend to visit my friends, Tom and Deb. I love flying with Southwest Airlines (bags fly free - yay! )

But flying itself is not that much fun anymore. Have you noticed? Even though I continue to be enamored by the ease of zipping from one location to another, airports seem more like the bus terminals of my youth. The crowds, standing room only waiting areas, travelers toting their drinks and sandwiches - you know what I am talking about.

But I digress.

On Sunday, we drove along the coast down to Freeport. Two years earlier, Hurricane Ike devastated the coast line. At this time last year, I was in Galveston Island, and the effects of the storm were still evident.

This Sunday, we drove to Freeport. Roads that had been closed last year are now open, and signs of new life are evident everywhere.

The balmy breeze and gentle sunshine made it a perfect day to be out.
The mosquitoes thought so, too, though you would never have know it from looking at the two buddies above.

.... To give to them beauty instead of ashes, The oil of joy instead of mourning, A covering of praise for a spirit of weakness. Isaiah 61:3

All Boys are Princes

2010-09-06T09:41:00.001-05:00

One of my favorite movies is "The Little Princess." I am talking about the 1995 version, and not the one that starred Shirley Temple in 1939.

My paraphrase of a favorite line is, " All girls are princesses." So it seems obvious that all boys are princes. At least that's the way it goes in our family.

In July, we celebrated Prince Elijah's first birthday in Knoxville, with Lindsay and Brent, and Brent's parents, Barry and Sharon.

There were balloons....

and cake (gluten free in this case, made lovingly by Mommy)

and the Prince.

Let's not forget the paparazzi.

We came bearing gifts, including this state of the art Radio Flyer wagon from Barry and Sharon.

It was a happy day.

"Don't you see that children are God's best gift? The fruit of the womb His generous legacy? ...Oh, how blessed are you parents...."

Psalm 127, The Message

Sum Sum Summertime!

2010-09-02T06:32:00.000-05:00

We are squeezing out the very last drop of Summer.

Our days have contained plenty of heat but little water. She's been sick a lot this season and it's kept her landlocked.

Since we've had so many 100+ days in Texas , it's hard to imagine that soon it might be too cool to swim.

So this was her day!

Yeah, there is still a kid in there, too.

Summer, please stay a little longer? See you in September?

Who is she kidding! Often Summer lingers until October.

She loves Texas.

Sometimes Life is like a Fairy Tale

2010-07-18T15:00:00.003-05:00

Once upon a time, a friend of a blog writer became ill.
So ill, in fact, that she died.

The writer was heartbroken, having lost her dear friend, whom she had known and loved for many years.
The writer did not have enough words to describe the vast hole her friend's departure left in her life.
But her heartbreak could not compare to that of her friend's husband and children.

The husband is a knight in shining armor, as gallant and kind as they come.
He grieved for several years.

Then one day, his doctor said, " I have a prescription for you. I am giving you the name of someone I think you will like.
Call her."

Hesitating at first, and praying a lot, he called her.
They talked.

He learned that she was a loving wife and mother for many years who had lost her husband to the same dreadful disease.
Her heart had been broken, and her life had been hard.

She is elegant, graceful, wise and loving.

They are a perfect match.

The wedding was yesterday.
Two hearts, two families who have endured so much, are now one.

Friends came from near and far. So much was felt and expressed at that glorious celebration.
There was love and honor for the lost loved spouses, for the children and grandchildren.
And for the life companion each one has now found in the other.

And, of course, words of thanks for their mutual doctor, who brought them together.
Doctors' orders were followed here.

The blog writer, though missing her friend still, was very happy.
And she is certain her friend would be, too.

"I waited and waited and waited for God.
At last He looked; finally He listened.
He lifted me out of the ditch,
pulled me from the deep mud.
He stood me up on a solid rock
to make sure I wouldn't slip.
He taught me how to sing the latest God-song,
a praise song to our God.
More and more people are seeing this;
they enter the mystery,
abandoning themselves to God."

Psalm 40:1-3 from The Message
selection from wedding program

A River of Water

2010-07-11T19:02:00.002-05:00

An early evening stroll in the neighborhood made us realize again just how hot it was. The heat radiated off the concrete and we kept to the shade at the sides of the road. Rain had not made an appearance for several days and there were deep grooves in the ground between the curb and sidewalk.

Then suddenly, a stream of water was headed our way, running downhill from somewhere up the street.

Our parched street was transformed into a water park!

Running, splashing, laughing!

We were all 4-years-old.

The source of the water is a mystery; perhaps it came from a draining swimming pool. To us, it was a like a mountain stream and that's the way we want to think of it.

Jesus said, ".....Anyone who drinks the water I give will never thirst - not ever. The water I give will be an artesian spring within, gushing fountains of endless life." John 4:14

Happy Independence Day!

2010-07-04T10:11:00.000-05:00

On the weekend of July 4th, 1976, we pulled into our new home town of Dallas, TX. We drove a UHaul truck from Miami, FL into a kind of summer heat I had never before experienced. I was accustomed to the wilting humidity of south Florida but this was something different. Imagine standing in front of a blow dryer set on high....

My kitchen comes close to that first Texas summer experience.

Within a few days, we had found an apartment and connected with Dallas Theological Seminary where Larry would soon be consumed by the demands of a rigorous program.

But first things first! This was 1976, the bicentennial celebration of our country's birth. We had fireworks to see! And so we did, at the Cotton Bowl in Fair Park.

Since then, we've been blessed with many more celebrations on the 4th of July. We will celebrate again today, with heartfelt thanks to those who have made eating watermelon and watching fireworks symbols of freedom.

Galatians 5:1 "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free."

Let's see, this year it is....

2010-06-16T20:43:00.001-05:00

thirty seven

37

THIRTY SEVEN years of marriage!

A long marriage is a blessing.
For some of us, it takes a long time to learn how to be married.
I am one of those.

"Love is patient and kind..."

Here is the proof.

He pulled to the side of the road so I could take this photo, warning, "Stay out of the tall grass so you don't get chiggers!"

Now that is love that "cares more for others than for self."

Happy Anniversary, Honey!!

Scones with Fresh Raspberries

2010-06-14T18:09:00.000-05:00

She popped a red raspberry into her mouth.

Her eyes widened as she said,

"Yum! Raspberries taste like.............candy!!"

Four year old Piper is in training as my kitchen helper. I came across an easy recipe for Raspberry-Orange Scones. It is fun and simple to make, and delicious.

By the time we slid them into the oven, flour was everywhere, and more raspberries were in the tummy than in the scones, but isn't that the way it is supposed to work?

Raspberry-Orange Scones

2 1/4 cups packaged biscuit mix

1/2 cup milk

1 egg, lightly beaten

1 teaspoon orange peel, finely shredded

1/2 cup fresh raspberries (I would throw in a few more)

1/4 cup sugar

Preheat oven to 400 F. In a large bowl, stir together biscuit mix, milk, egg and orange peel until a soft dough forms. Gently fold in raspberries. Place dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead about 10 times or until smooth. Form dough into a 6-inch circle. Cut into 6 wedges. Arrange wedges on an ungreased baking sheet. Sprinkle with sugar and bake 12 to 18 minutes or until golden brown. Serves 6.

The scones are delicious right out of the oven. But a favorite variation is to break a scone into a bowl with fresh raspberries, and pour a little heavy cream over all (as seen above.)

Everything Looks Different.....

2010-03-29T21:00:00.001-05:00

through the lens of my camera.

Though I've always loved photography, nothing prepared me for the grip it has had on me for the last three years. The digital world has lured me into the pleasure of learning how to create an image, and now I see them everywhere.

This gorgeous chandelier sparkles in the morning light streaming through the window in my friend's dining room.

The ordinary, in reality, is quite extraordinary.

"People are like stained glass windows; they sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness set in their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light within."

— Elisabeth Kübler-Ross

Spring Shows Up

2010-03-23T11:06:00.004-05:00

Spring finally made it through security and showed up yesterday.

She had a little trouble being restricted to 3oz of liquid in a zip lock bag. You know, Spring is all about exuberance, extravagance and excess in color and fragrance. Pack lightly? Please. She didn't forget her blow dryer, either, for what she calls "the tornado affect."

Welcome, Spring. We're ready for you.

"Spring is nature's way of saying, Let's party!"

— Robin P. Williams

Winter tries to Spring

2010-03-21T12:24:00.000-05:00

Winter packed its bags on Friday, all set for a Saturday departure.

Spring was due to arrive the next day, and Winter didn't want to get in the way.

But Spring must have gotten detained in security.

So, Winter decided to hang around a few more days and throw a farewell bash.

A Cheerful Look

2010-03-20T12:16:00.000-05:00

Months ago, when I first considered starting a blog, I knew one of my main challenges would be maintaining momentum.

I cringed when I noticed my last posting was written in February.

But life happens, as I know it does for you. Even so, I am determined to create a better system. Any suggestions?

Here is the latest example of how family needs can put everything on hold.

Early last week, granddaughter Piper went into the hospital, in the wee hours of the morning, with a respiratory infection and low oxygen levels. She seemed to snap out of it and went home. You can barely see the celebratory balloons tied to her stroller.

A few hours later, she was back in the ER. Diagnosis: RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) or as her grandfather calls it, Really Serious Virus.

Glitter, glue, stickers and scissors were the most help in enduring the constant stream of medical personnel, treatments and tests. But I must not forget to mention the almost hypnotic affect of the Sprouts network on the hospital television.

She's a crafty little thing! And the more glitter, the better!

Aunt Claudia came by one evening to snap up some bubbles.

We all celebrated at the end of the week when she was able to go home. In the above photo, you can see her projects proudly displayed along the window sill. The delicate treasures required some creative packing!

Grateful for medical care; even more grateful when she doesn't need it.

A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones.
Proverbs 15:30

Remembering

2010-02-23T18:24:00.000-06:00

We didn't get it. Not one single flake. The predicted modest snowfall bypassed the metroplex and trailed down south.

So, in honor of today's weather forecast, I present an image from ten days ago.

Only a person who dreads the relentless heat of our August days would revel in a day like the one shown here. This is me, driving down my street at 5pm.

It was sweet while it lasted and I was hoping for a return engagement.

It was not to be.

Now, I am going to turn on the Winter Olympics and get my fix long distance.

Though Vancouver is having a little trouble with that snow, aren't they?

The Heart of Love

2010-02-14T12:10:00.003-06:00

My favorite one hit the floor this morning.

I was being so careful,

handling it gently like the treasure it is,

when it slipped from my grasp.

I felt it happening,

my fingers struggled to stop it,

but failed.

Not only is it the most exquisite Valentine's Day cookie I have ever seen, it was lovingly crafted by one so dear to my heart.

But you know, the cookie, though broken,

is still beautiful.

Still a treasure.

Made in love.

Be loved today.

Because you are.

"Nothing fazes us because Jesus loves us. I'm absolutely convinced that nothing.....can get between us and God's love because of the way Jesus our Master has embraced us."

Romans 8, The Message

Winter Wallop

2010-02-12T16:05:00.001-06:00

Winter gave us a big fat kiss on the cheek yesterday.

The official record at the Dallas/Ft. Worth Airport was set today at 12+ inches in a 24 hour period.

Branches broke, the crepe myrtles sagged.

I dashed into my car, camera in tow, before the beautiful whiteness transformed into drab slush. It was a trick getting up my driveway and on the road, but the city was a feast for these eyes.

A Happy Birthday

2010-02-11T16:00:00.000-06:00

"When we honestly ask ourselves which person in our lives mean the most to us, we often find that it is those who, instead of giving advice, solutions, or cures, have chosen rather to share our pain and touch our wounds with a warm and tender hand. The friend who can be silent with us in a moment of despair or confusion, who can stay with us in an hour of grief and bereavement, who can tolerate not knowing, not curing, not healing and face with us the reality of our powerlessness, that is a friend who cares."

— Henri J.M. Nouwen (The Road to Daybreak: A Spiritual Journey)

This quote describes my friend, Jan. My life is richer because she was born, and because she has joined in my journey, and allowed me to be with her.

Jan loves life and embraces it with arms wide open. Beautiful, stylish and creative, her warm and giving heart draws people like a magnet. Did I also mention that she has a terrific sense of humor, loves roses and chocolate, and coffee? If she knew you, having coffee with you would be one of her favorite things to do.

That is just the way she is.

I am thankful to be her friend.

Happy birthday, Jan!

The Gift of Time

2009-12-23T16:37:00.000-06:00

My sister gave me the best Christmas gift ever. And it came early, too. I had a big problem and she helped me take care of it.

On the weekend before Christmas, she gave me the gift of time.

Let me tell you what happened.

I barely noticed when it first started a few weeks ago. The little winged moth seemed nothing more than an innocent traveler passing through. Now I think he was the scout, looking for a comfy place to take up residence, to invite his family and friends and populate.

My problem was pantry moths. Have you ever heard of them? Let me tell you, they are no fable. They do exist.

We declared war. On the Saturday before Christmas, there was no peace in my kitchen. Out went everthing in my pantry that was not in a can or hard plastic container. We scrubbed the walls and shelves, wiped down everything we put back.

Now look!

Claudia is the best sister in the world! Let the baking begin....

My Mother's Point of View

2009-12-18T09:00:00.000-06:00

My sister and I went to upstate NY to check on my mother and aunt last week. They are 80 and 88.

Aunt Aileen and Mom, May 2009

Vascular dementia has its grip on my mother, and my aunt's heart is getting a little tired. For now, they still live together, but those days are numbered.

When I was last there in May for my mother's 80th birthday, I was able to take some sweet portraits of her. This trip I decided to concentrate on "a day in the life" set, which I'll be processing soon.

One of my favorite images is of the view out Mom's bedroom window. Every night, when she goes to bed, she opens the blinds in her room. In the morning, the neighboring building and trees are the first things she sees. In the summer, the trees are leafy green, blazing orange and yellow in fall, and majestically bare in the winter. Mom loves that view. She lies in bed, taking it all in before getting up to start her day.

This image was taken from her bedroom window the morning of the day I returned home. On this day at least, Mom and I were seeing eye to eye.

Giving Thanks

2009-11-26T09:36:00.003-06:00

Welcome to my home!

My plan for today, "be thankful in everything..."

I have a very long list.

Many Thanksgiving blessings to you!

A Girl and Her Grandfather

2009-11-19T07:15:00.001-06:00

God himself has said,
I will not in any way fail you
nor give you up
nor leave you without support.
I will not,
I will not,
I will not in any degree leave you helpess,
nor forsake you,
nor let you down,
or relax My hold on you.

Assuredly not!

Hebrews 13:5b
Amplified Version

Moving On Part 2

2009-11-13T21:42:00.000-06:00

We've moved.

It is a relief to be at this point in the process, even though I'm still settling in and trying to make my new location feel as homey as my old office. It was small but cozy, and I miss it. No window in that old office, either, but even for this lover of light, it felt OK. Now I have a beautiful north facing window, in a larger room, and I'm working on making it home.

The day of the move was as you would imagine. The flood of boxes and furniture came, looking for a place to rest. But when the granddaughter of one of my collegues showed up, suddenly everything became a lot more fun.

Sadly, Mary Anne had to go home, and I was left to go it alone.

But it's been a week now, and I can truly say that it is becoming more like home every day.

The Hope Center

Moving On

2009-10-31T09:42:00.001-05:00

It was time. In fact, past time. I was finally forced to clean out my desk this week.

For the last 12 months, Exchanged Life Ministries Texas has been gearing up for relocation. After nine years in a strip center, in a declining area with increasing crime, we will be moving next week to The Hope Center, a glorious building designed for organizations such as ours.

Cleaning out my desk was like going on an archeological dig. For a time, I shared my office with a friend. So when I came upon some of her things, it was a sweet discovery, bringing back warm memories of our times together. Other found objects were a mystery. Why are there pieces of broken bowl in a small, square Pottery Barn box? Perhaps I planned to use them as an object lesson, but I simply can't remember. And there was a clock that used to sit on a table across the room from me. It was consigned to that deep drawer when I could no longer read the numbers from that distance.

But then I happened upon a true treasure.

Another person might call it a fossil, as it is at least, several years old. A hopeless chocoholic, I switched brands a long time ago.

No, I didn't eat it.

Show and Tell

2009-10-23T17:00:00.001-05:00

"It is by chance we met . .

By choice we became friends."

Last night I had dinner with Deb. This woman is a most marvelously talented writer, educator and business woman, generous of heart, stylish and creative to the core. Most of all, she is my friend.

Many years ago, we met as young mothers at a Bible Study Fellowship class. She loves to give me credit for sparking a creative fire that transformed her into a one of the most stylish women I know. We share a love for color and fashion, and a determination to avoid the "matronly" look, even as the years carry us along.

Though she moved to another city, I have never lost my friend. Deb has the gift of pursuit, and she has held fast to me. Our children have grown up, our bodies have changed, our lives are different. I love her dearly and was so happy to have dinner with her last night when she dashed into town.

Here she is showing me one of her new accessories. We do love our show n' tell.

It is a Village

2009-10-21T16:08:00.001-05:00

A couple weekends ago, we headed out to Traders Village in Grand Prairie, Texas for a fun afternoon with our friends Jack and Melodie. It was a chilly day and threatening rain.

There are acres of vendors in the open air, selling anything you could want or imagine. A few vendors set up shop in what look like storage units, but most sellers brave the blazing summer heat or the winter chill, with a few balmy days thrown in. It was our first visit.

In addtion to the fun of wheeling and dealing, here is what struck me: the families. Everywhere there were generations of families, selling and shopping. Strollers were piled high, sometimes even with a child riding along.

Every person was carrying something.

And sometimes the cargo was precious, indeed.

Child Photography in Ten Minutes or Less

2009-10-12T21:38:00.001-05:00

Subtitle: Child Photography in Ten Minutes or Else

This is not a how-to.

Here is how it all started. I'd just returned from Walmart (yet again) with a little pumpkin. The pop of orange pumpkin against the purple dress took my breath away.

You know the feeling you have when you can picture the child, the prop, the mood, in one beautifully affecting image? It's all right in front of you, so close. Everything seems possible.

Then comes reality. The light is fading fast. It's cool and we can't find her shoes. Go with the flip flops. Pop them on and out the door we go.

Note the natural smile. And the flip flops.

Take a shot. Check the histogram on the back of the camera for proper exposure? Forget it! No time. Subject restless. Hope for the best, and maybe we'll get lucky.

Good spooky Halloween look.

Ooops, lost the top of her head.

Ditch the pumpkin. Tend to baby.

I'm going inside; how about you?

Time elapsed: 8.5 minutes

Later, the shoes were found in the clothes hamper.

Time Divided

2009-10-11T08:54:00.002-05:00

Today I brought home a stack of books from the library. Ever since I was a child, the public library has been a place of refuge and adventure. Usually leaning toward fiction, with a particular fondness for mysteries, today's finds were an unusual topical mix.

Life in Color by Garza and Lupo
The Complete Eldercare Planner by Loverde (for my mother, but I guess I am next in line)
Cool Spaces for Kids by Sam Scarborough (for Piper and Eli)
Depression is Contagious by Michael D. Yapko, Ph.D (really curious about this one)
I Wasn't Ready to Say Goodbye by Noel and Blair (a book on grief)
Digital Photographer's Handbook by Tom Ang
Swimming by Nicola Keegan (a novel)
Secret Sayings Hidden Meanings by Graham Cooke (not from the library, a gift from Jan for my soul)

I started Swimming and was almost immediately captivated by the story. It is a first novel and I was curious about the author. Her bio, on the inside back cover, reads, "....divides her time between Ireland and France with her husband and three sons." There must be a story here.

So then I started thinking. How would my bio read? "Karla divides her time between Walmart and work...." Not quite the same.

Then I realized that my stack of books truly did reflect my life. My loves (God, family, friends) and passions(God, photography, work) intertwine and overlap . In my case, there are no clear divisions between the people I love, and the things I love to do.

So here goes. "Karla is doing her best to divide her time among....."

I'll bet it's this way for you, too.

For Brent

2009-09-30T18:15:00.000-05:00

Well, the fun had to end sometime.

After 10 full days of visiting and frolicking with baby Eli and Lindsay, we had to say goodbye at the airport today. Only one thing could have made our time better, and that would have been the presence of husband and dad, Brent.

Thank you, Brent, for sacrficing and sharing your family with us. We missed you lots!

Brent, remember the misty morning when I was visiting in Knoxville last month? You and little Eli toured garage sales in the neighborhood. If he is anything like his parents, he is on his way to becoming a bargain hunter and will learn how to profit from a good buy.

Hmm...didn't that baby carrier come from Craig's List?

And you know, someone is always watching to see what's going to happen next!

SICKish

2009-09-23T11:49:00.000-05:00

A few days ago, I received the email below from my niece, Rebecca. It was so very timely, and I have had occasion to put the information into practice the last few days.

Hope it benefits you, too! Or even better, that you have no need to test it on yourself or a loved one.

the remedy is helping....

With the constant fear of H1N1 symptoms, the following measures can be
practiced by one and all. This is an information which I just received from
my father who is a Consultant General Surgeon & Gastoenterologist, based in
India and I do hope it could be beneficial to the students and their
families alike.

Tamiflu does not kill but prevents H1N1 from further proliferation till the
virus limits itself in about 1-2 weeks (its natural cycle). H1N1, like other
Influenza A viruses, only infects the upper respiratory tract and
proliferates (only) there. The only portals of entry are the nostrils and
mouth/ throat. In a global epidemic of this nature, it's almost impossible
not coming into contact with H1N1 in spite of all precautions. Contact with
H1N1 is not so much of a problem as proliferation is.

While you are still healthy and not showing any symptoms of H1N1 infection,

in order to prevent proliferation, aggravation of symptoms and development

of secondary infections, some very simple steps - not fully highlighted in

most official communications - can be practiced (instead of focusing on how

to stock N95 or Tamiflu):

1. Frequent hand-washing (well highlighted in all official communications)

2. "Hands-off-the-face" approach. Resist all temptations to touch any part
of face (unless you want to eat, bathe or slap).

3. Gargle twice a day with warm salt water (use Listerine if you don't trust
salt). H1N1 takes 2-3 days after initial infection in the throat/ nasal
cavity to proliferate and show characteristic symptoms. Simple gargling
prevents proliferation. In a way, gargling with salt water has the same
effect on a healthy individual that Tamiflu has on an infected one. Don't
underestimate this simple, inexpensive and powerful preventative method.

4.. Similar to 3 above, clean your nostrils at least once every day with warm
salt water.
Not everybody may be good at Jala Neti or Sutra Neti (very good Yoga asanas
to clean nasal cavities), but blowing the nose hard once a day and swabbing
both nostrils with cotton buds dipped in warm salt water is very effective
in bringing down viral population.

5. Boost your natural immunity with foods that are rich in Vitamin C (Amla
and other citrus fruits). If you have to supplement with Vitamin C tablets,
make sure that it also has Zinc/bioflavonoids to boost absorption.

6. Drink as much of warm liquids as you can. Drinking warm liquids has the
same effect as gargling, but in the reverse direction. They wash off
proliferating viruses from the throat into the stomach where they cannot
survive, proliferate or do any harm.

All these are simple ways to prevent, within means of most households, and
certainly much less painful than to wait in long queues outside public
hospitals

Willis Hulings
Former President
Honor Legion Police Dept's State of NJ

whulings@mac.com

Wanna play?

2009-09-20T21:47:00.000-05:00

One morning, Lindsay bundled up six week old Eli and we took a trip to the Knoxville Zoo, as guests of her friend, Jennifer, and her little guy, Andrew.

I will never forget the sight of the silverback gorilla in his enclosure, as he leaned back against the transparent wall. The children in the viewing area were as entranced as we were.

It's Official!

2009-09-19T11:22:00.003-05:00

Today I joined the blogging world. It's quite an exciting time to be alive for those who enjoy communicating. Recently, I've been inspired by my dear friend Debbie Diller, who launched a blog last month. And then a few days later, I discovered that my daughter and her husband have also begun blogging. So now it's time for me.

What kind of blog is this? That is still evolving. I simply know I am living a life and I have something to say and display. Perhaps a grownup version of show n' tell.

You also have something to say. You should consider blogging, too.

Grandson Elijah Truett Gosnell and Cosmo in "The Guardian"