aussie adventure

In my avoidance of all things winter, i packed a bag (ok- an extra large suitcase) and fled to summer down under. The Kinks had it right when they sang 'No one hesitates at life or beats around the bush in Australia'. Life just seems easier. As life ticks by I'm slowly checking things off my bucket list, which is actually getting longer the more i explore the planet. New Years brought me to the harbour in Sydney... one of my favorite places in the world (so far). I watched the world renowned fireworks display and celebrated the new year with one of my best friends and favorite muse, Elisabeth. Realizing another year had passed before all our friends stateside had really started their day. We sat on the gorgeous beaches and ate really great food, explored the tremendous sites and played with the kangaroos. With our in between time, Elisabeth was gracious enough to let me take a few shots. Some of my favorites to date. Enjoy and Happy New Year!

Christmas 2010

The holidays are the perfect time to lose yourself with loved ones, to revile in the love and closeness that the family life can offer and take time off from the stresses of life just to sit and be merry. Oh and the presents! My family and I are fortunate to have a gift filled holiday. I have to say the most enjoyable part is watching the little fingers rip into the paper. I've never seen a paper box and tissue give anyone so much joy. Simple pleasures... that's little Miss Julianna.

little bundles

Every now and then I get to capture the newness of a fresh arrival. Newborns are a curious little joy that i just cant get enough of. The little wrinkles in the forehead, protruding little belly buttons and the squeaks for attention. Even the most robust cries seem so precious. Of course, i get to give them back after I'm done and go sleep in a kid free bed, but I still eat up those precious moments like they are the only ones i'll ever get. Their tiny exploration of everything around them fascinates me. The complete dependence on mommy and daddy and the undying love given in return. A new life just begun, wrapped in the tiny onesie that will fit just long enough. Meet Michael, one day old and on the the rest of his life.

happy baby, happy girls

Life passes too quickly so i have to make a point to put those that need my priority in the front of my view. I've got some amazing friends in my life spread literally throughout the globe and some amazing ladies that I don't get to spend enough time with. Here are a few of my favorite girls, Julianna and her mommy Jenn. We escaped for a day and had a little Mt. Vernon adventure. A lovely Indian summer day. Life is grand!

a day at the zoo

when i was a little girl, there are a few adventures i remember poignantly. my first trip to disneyland, my little sister being afraid of the characters, especially Mickey. she towered in fear as i ran up and grabbed his leg. Another fond memory was my first trip to the zoo. I got to see the elephants, the tigers, and there might have been a bear. oh my!

For my birthday this year, I decided to take my niece Julianna to the zoo. my gift to her, and to me as it brings such joy to see her little face light up. She learned a new word that day... ROAR! and sang it with pride, all the way home...

some of the memories of her first trip.

little sam has gotten big

Ive made my way back to boston to see my good friend Ida Mae and her little man Sam. He's a year old now and I'm patiently waiting to see his infectious grin. Ida has been keeping me and the rest of the world up to date on his growth and changes via her blog at http://www.treeswillbend.com/ a fascinating wealth of information for parents interested in raising a "green" baby in an eco conscious sense. I'm coming guys! its time to update these photos and get some shots of the big boy, hopefully walking. and of course his lovely momma!

big kids

On occasion I expand past my preference of little ones and shoot those that are my size. This past weekend i did just that. Shooting model portfolios is fun and a bit of a challenge which is what i strive for. Who wants work to be easy? Where's the fun in that?

So here are a few shots of the ladies that helped fill my Saturday. I left exhausted, sweaty and a little sunburned but satisfied nonetheless. Thanks ladies for your hard work and enthusiasm.