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Clarissa
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Posted by
Clarissa
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Posted by
Clarissa
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Since I had not had a chance to post these pics from my last visit and since today I am passing through Cincinnati on another adventure, I thought I would share these! This cool city offers picturesque views, stately old cathedrals, gates of adventure and beautiful balconies. Everywhere you look is a photograph just waiting to happen and sometimes there seems to never be enough minutes in the day!
So I mentioned that I am embarking on another weekend adventure: all in one weekend the Midfirst Ohio Challenge Hot Air Baloon Festival AND Dayton Air Show is happening! How much excitement can one weekend contain? This will definitely be a new type of shoot for this photographer! I have always wanted to go up in a hot air balloon and I am wondering "does a tethered ride actually count?" I sure am considering it! So if you are in the area, come on our and join the fun!
And if you aren't in the area, Take a look around your corner today, what exciting advenutre awaits you?
Joy 2 u!
So I mentioned that I am embarking on another weekend adventure: all in one weekend the Midfirst Ohio Challenge Hot Air Baloon Festival AND Dayton Air Show is happening! How much excitement can one weekend contain? This will definitely be a new type of shoot for this photographer! I have always wanted to go up in a hot air balloon and I am wondering "does a tethered ride actually count?" I sure am considering it! So if you are in the area, come on our and join the fun!
And if you aren't in the area, Take a look around your corner today, what exciting advenutre awaits you?
Joy 2 u!
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Clarissa
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For several months, I had heard about the Japanese Butterfly Exhibit at Krohn's Conservatory in Cincinnati, OH. Finally, on the last weekend of the exhibit, I was able to stop by on my way through. How many times do you get an opportunity to photograph butterflies from Japan? After nearly missing the butterflies (as I was checking out the garden atrium), I was so incredibly glad I made the effort!
To say the experience was incredible is an understatement. Yes, it was sort of crowded and very hot, but folks were gracious and just as excited as I was to be there! Too watch myriad colors floating through the air, flutters here and then there, it was so hard to just stand still and let the butterflies come to you. Oh, and the elusive blue butterflies were quite the tempters! They were a nightmare and a challenge to photograph. Since it was the last weekend, I couldn't resist visiting again on the last Sunday afternoon and brought my cousins along for the ride! Even if you aren't a nature lover, it was hard not to be impressed! We had an enjoyable visit together!
Find the Wings of Beauty in your Front Yard!
To say the experience was incredible is an understatement. Yes, it was sort of crowded and very hot, but folks were gracious and just as excited as I was to be there! Too watch myriad colors floating through the air, flutters here and then there, it was so hard to just stand still and let the butterflies come to you. Oh, and the elusive blue butterflies were quite the tempters! They were a nightmare and a challenge to photograph. Since it was the last weekend, I couldn't resist visiting again on the last Sunday afternoon and brought my cousins along for the ride! Even if you aren't a nature lover, it was hard not to be impressed! We had an enjoyable visit together!
Find the Wings of Beauty in your Front Yard!
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Clarissa
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As I was meditating on the Lord this evening, the following scriptures came to my mind:
Behold, O God our shield, and look upon the face of thine anointed. For a day in they courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell i the tents of wickedness. For the Lord God is a sun and shield: the Lord will give grace and glory; no good thing will he withhold from them from that walk uprightly. O lord of hosts, blessed is the man that trusteth in thee. (Psalm 84:9 - 11).
From the rising of the sun until the going down of the same i will praise the lord for all his blessings, for ordering my steps, and being a refuge. do you need a place of refuge today? Just turn your heart toward his voice and he will meet you where you are!
Blessings to you!
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Clarissa
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Another visit with my brother and his family has come to a close. With all the anticipation and preparation that precedes a visit, they just never seem to last long enough whether they are four days or ten days. After a weekend of laughter, chitter chatter, late nights, movie time, fishing, swinging, and, oh, let's not forget the sweetest of all...snuggle time, the house does seem pretty quiet. But it is also a part of each to discover what has been left behind and this time...a very important object was left behind!
One afternoon, when we were just "flapping" in the family room (a.k.a. that is just hanging out and talking according to Dawson), I noticed Keagan was dragging around a blankie. That is one thing I can sure say about all three of my nephews: they love their silky blankets. But then I made a surprising discovery: Keagan's special blanket was that it was the blanket I purchased for him before he even came home from the hospital. Wow! I just couldn't believe it! The little blanket had survived nearly five years. I offered to replace this one with a new one but Keagan just looked at me and said it's a little old and torn but you got it for me Chrissy! Now that is wisdom from the mouth of a nearly five-year-old.
In the chaos of packing and loading the van, somehow this little yellow blanket got misplaced. Although we searched high and low, moving pillows and unmaking beds...it was just nowhere to be found. So they hit the road without it...hoping that it had made it into the van! Unfortanately, Grandma found it later that afternoon and I put in the mail just as soon as I could! A boy should not be separated from something so comforting and precious.
With each visit, there are many moments such as the one I shared with Keagan...moments that leave behind heartprints! Memories that bring a smile! A one-liner that brings outright laughter! And, always, those precious moments that bring a tear to the eye! But not one of those moments I would change!
Today, I would ask who has left a heart print in your life? Are you leaving one on the life of those closest to you? Take a moment and make a memory right now!
May God bless you and yours!
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Clarissa
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Posted by
Clarissa
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oh just about anything! After our early morning of yard selling/fishing was rained out, we really thought about giving up on our plans. At least we adults did...the boys, on the other hand, were ready to fish...Rain or Shine!
Why not? What's a little rain? So we headed down to Renfro Creek. Since dad and Kevin had already spent most of the early morning and afternoon scouting the area for the "best" fishing spot...we knew this one had some potential.
Sure enough, we weren't there just a few minutes, and Dawson had a bite! It was not a bad sized bass! Everyone else was catching the excitement of fishing fever now.
Although Jaden was more interested in "washing his shoes off in the creek", he actually did catch a fish!
Keagy, like Jaden, was all over the place! From the fishing bank to playing with the wormies and making them a home to playing in the creek as well. Once as he was going to fish by Grandpa, he got a giant catch: Me! I must confess, and maybe it is because of the camera in my hand, that I am often the one "hooked" on these fishing expeditions. Could it be that I am just in the way? LOL! This afternoon, Keagan was just walking by and the next thing we know his worm and hook are totally through my jean skirt...thankfully, the jean skirt and not my leg! Can you say "Ouch!"!
But before we left the creekbank, Keagy had captured a real fish!
There is nothing like an afternoon spent on the creek surrounded by the sounds of nature and the laughter of children!
Take a break, grab a friend and head to the creek with your fishing line in hand!
Joy 2 u!
Why not? What's a little rain? So we headed down to Renfro Creek. Since dad and Kevin had already spent most of the early morning and afternoon scouting the area for the "best" fishing spot...we knew this one had some potential.
Sure enough, we weren't there just a few minutes, and Dawson had a bite! It was not a bad sized bass! Everyone else was catching the excitement of fishing fever now.
Although Jaden was more interested in "washing his shoes off in the creek", he actually did catch a fish!
Keagy, like Jaden, was all over the place! From the fishing bank to playing with the wormies and making them a home to playing in the creek as well. Once as he was going to fish by Grandpa, he got a giant catch: Me! I must confess, and maybe it is because of the camera in my hand, that I am often the one "hooked" on these fishing expeditions. Could it be that I am just in the way? LOL! This afternoon, Keagan was just walking by and the next thing we know his worm and hook are totally through my jean skirt...thankfully, the jean skirt and not my leg! Can you say "Ouch!"!
But before we left the creekbank, Keagy had captured a real fish!
There is nothing like an afternoon spent on the creek surrounded by the sounds of nature and the laughter of children!
Take a break, grab a friend and head to the creek with your fishing line in hand!
Joy 2 u!
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Clarissa
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Fireworks have always been one of the most amazing spectacular experiences of July but also one of the most elusive for me as a photographer! Sometimes it just seems impossible to capture the beauty and excitement of the moment!
But for the first time....I think this year...I just may have some keepers! With our front row seat, I was afraid we would be too close but I think it was just the right spot for an experiment. Of course, when it was time to leave and we waited over an hour to get back on the main road, we didn't think that front row seat quite so special!! Nevertheless, I thought I would share a few with you!
Blessings to you!
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Clarissa
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They are on their way? Just who you might be asking is on their way to where? My brother and his family are on their way to Kentucky to visit for a few days! It's hard to believe that we havent' gotten to see them since early last December and my, how the boys have grown. Now that the time is nearing for their arrival, this aunt is getting quite excited!In fact, I am not sure who will be more excited...three little guys set free from a very long road trip or me?
Although we have no definite plans for the next few days except to spend lots of moments together, I am sure there will be at least one water fight of some kind (it is July and it is hot! right?)whether it is with grandpa's garden hose or water balloons, games (there are always games), movies for snuggle times, plus lots of giggles, laughter, tears and attitudes! (Oh and lest we forget but let's keep this one a secret: lots of pictures!) Yes, the Queen of Photography will be snappity, snap, snapping for the next few days!
I have said it before and I will say it again: family is one of God's greatest blessings! But it is so easy to let too much time go by without staying in touch! Re-connect with a member of your family today! You might just be surprised and blessed by the memory made!
Blessings to you!
Although we have no definite plans for the next few days except to spend lots of moments together, I am sure there will be at least one water fight of some kind (it is July and it is hot! right?)whether it is with grandpa's garden hose or water balloons, games (there are always games), movies for snuggle times, plus lots of giggles, laughter, tears and attitudes! (Oh and lest we forget but let's keep this one a secret: lots of pictures!) Yes, the Queen of Photography will be snappity, snap, snapping for the next few days!
I have said it before and I will say it again: family is one of God's greatest blessings! But it is so easy to let too much time go by without staying in touch! Re-connect with a member of your family today! You might just be surprised and blessed by the memory made!
Blessings to you!
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Clarissa
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When I was shooting pictures for my Christmas Cards last fall, my friend, Sheryl, offered her ferrets as models. Ferrets? To be quite honest I was very nervous...don't they bite? Aren't they scary? I mean these are like long hairy rat creatures - right?
I must say that photographing Angel and Gilligan was one of the most fun shoots I had last fall! These two were hilarious, leaping, jumping, hissing, so skinny the lil outfits would not even stay on them! I know I laughed until I cried and have told everyone about these two. In fact, my granny says that she wants one for a pet. I can just a ferret loose in our house!! Lol!
ANGEL IN THE CHRISTMAS BAG!
BRINGING A PRESENT JUST FOR YOU!
Today, I received the sad news that Gilligan passed away in his sleep! Maybe it seems silly to mention this event in a blog...as he is only a ferret. But he is a ferret who has brought joy to many and has endured much. I know Sheryl and Angel will miss him greatly! I am so glad I had my opportunity and took advantage of the moment! Now Sheryl has some cute pics of this little guy to remember him.
GILLIGAN...A CHRISTMAS STOCKING STUFFER!
Growing up, pets have always played such an important role in the life of children. Sometimes as protector, sometimes as a friend and best pal, sometimes as therapy, and sometimes as teachers of responsibility. While recently sorting through pictures, I found several of our family pets that have come and gone through the years. What a trip down memory lane! But then there are others of whom there are no pictures...I am sure we planned on it but it just didnt happen!
May I offer a suggestion: take a moment and love on your pal or take a photo of your children playing with their pets! They are such an important part of your family!
Joy 2 u!
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Clarissa
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Since i am sittin stuck in traffic waiting to depart the grounds and yet trying to keep my July Resolution (since it is only 4 days old) I am bloggin on the road! I will post firework pics soon..just not sure how to do that from my new phone! Technology is a grand thing! I am so thankful for the freedom that we have today. In all the celebrating, I would be remiss to not count my blessings! Even as I write, Klove is asking for prayer for our troops...adopt one today! They need our support as they fight and sacrifice to keep America..the home of the free and the brave! May you and yours be safe!
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Clarissa
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Although I have been privileged to be in the right spot at the right time for some incredible wildlife photography, raccoons are still one (of many) elusive animals still on my list!
I remember last fall when Jeanette and I went to shoot the moonbow at Cumberland Falls. There we were coming down the sidewalk and out of the corner of my eye, I saw something move by the trashcan. My first thought..a skunk or huge rat! Then it was like a Real Raccoon. So we tried to tippytoe quietly closer but this guy was too smart for us girls so this picture is as close as we got!
A few months ago, I was talking with my cousin Ernest. I could hardly believe my ears when he told me a raccoon was becoming quite a frequent visitor. Since he lives on a busy street kind of in the city, at first, I thought he was just teasing me! But no, Bubba and Ernest have become pretty good buddies. How amazing is that?
Well, today I received a picture today that just made my day and I just had to share them with you! Imagine this: a great big fluffy kitty cat named Trashcan teaching three young raccoons table manners!
No other words are necessary! Take a look around your world today...what brings a smile to your face!
Joy 2u!
I remember last fall when Jeanette and I went to shoot the moonbow at Cumberland Falls. There we were coming down the sidewalk and out of the corner of my eye, I saw something move by the trashcan. My first thought..a skunk or huge rat! Then it was like a Real Raccoon. So we tried to tippytoe quietly closer but this guy was too smart for us girls so this picture is as close as we got!
A few months ago, I was talking with my cousin Ernest. I could hardly believe my ears when he told me a raccoon was becoming quite a frequent visitor. Since he lives on a busy street kind of in the city, at first, I thought he was just teasing me! But no, Bubba and Ernest have become pretty good buddies. How amazing is that?
Well, today I received a picture today that just made my day and I just had to share them with you! Imagine this: a great big fluffy kitty cat named Trashcan teaching three young raccoons table manners!
No other words are necessary! Take a look around your world today...what brings a smile to your face!
Joy 2u!
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Clarissa
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The skaters from youth center look forward to National Skateboarding Day in June each year. However, this year the day-long event held at Woodland Park was complete with pro demos, give-aways, and competition was stormed out. Much to the exceeding joy of the skaters, it was rescheduled for last evening. Believe me, an evening skate competition is much better than a hot summer day one!
Although none of our local skaters placed in the competition, I was proud of their efforts! Great job guys (and Samantha!!)
I thought this sidewalk chalk drawing was a pretty cool welcome to the park.
The Tattooed Tree of the Park...with lots of love and best of luck to the competitors
I must confess to messing up a bit....somehow we couldnt tell when the practice session ended and the actualy competition began. So standing not too far away from the concrete, we still missed the first group of skaters which meant that I also missed Elijah and Chris. So Sorry Guys!
Cope is up
Gearing Up For a Run
David
Chris
BooBoo
Samantha...did an awesome job showing up the guys!
Justin...just a cruising along
Dakota
Elijah...after a full day of skating, he is still going!
We have missed Shannon and his brother, Darren, since they moved to Lexington. It was good to see him and show our support. He was the only advance competitor with local ties!
Rounding up the boys.....
Do you know how hard it is to get teen age boys to act right? For just a few seconds..
I guess it is true...boys will be boys!
Finally...all together....the Headbanging Bunnies and Friends!
Justin...loaded down with his souvenirs
Wesley...just one last trick
Turning the corner, to our surprise...we finally stumbled on the door to where?
Feeding some hungry boys!
A full day of fun and good times...but all days must come to end and what a beautiful ending for this one.
A star was shining bright as I arrived home!
What have you done today to invest in a young life?
Although none of our local skaters placed in the competition, I was proud of their efforts! Great job guys (and Samantha!!)
I thought this sidewalk chalk drawing was a pretty cool welcome to the park.
The Tattooed Tree of the Park...with lots of love and best of luck to the competitors
I must confess to messing up a bit....somehow we couldnt tell when the practice session ended and the actualy competition began. So standing not too far away from the concrete, we still missed the first group of skaters which meant that I also missed Elijah and Chris. So Sorry Guys!
Cope is up
Gearing Up For a Run
David
Chris
BooBoo
Samantha...did an awesome job showing up the guys!
Justin...just a cruising along
Dakota
Elijah...after a full day of skating, he is still going!
We have missed Shannon and his brother, Darren, since they moved to Lexington. It was good to see him and show our support. He was the only advance competitor with local ties!
Rounding up the boys.....
Do you know how hard it is to get teen age boys to act right? For just a few seconds..
I guess it is true...boys will be boys!
Finally...all together....the Headbanging Bunnies and Friends!
Justin...loaded down with his souvenirs
Wesley...just one last trick
Turning the corner, to our surprise...we finally stumbled on the door to where?
Feeding some hungry boys!
A full day of fun and good times...but all days must come to end and what a beautiful ending for this one.
A star was shining bright as I arrived home!
What have you done today to invest in a young life?
