Cottage Garden Studios Photography

Friday My Town Shoot Out...

2010-10-08T08:50:00.000-07:00

Our subject this week is....Water, Glass, Shiny Objects Reflections.
I have to say ...I have been absent for a bit and on again off again. The last months have been kinda rough..and I didn't feel right posting a shootout when I didn't have the time or the energy to visit everyone else's. So this week I am back..and trying to get back on track! Hugs all :)

I added a few of my favorite shots this week..a few you may have seen. Shiney bumble bee wings..

A darker version of me...I really love taking pictures of eyes...

A beautiful eye of my sweet daughter..she has deep blue eyes..but we had fun with the photo...

One of my favorite door shots...

Water droplets..

Shiney hair...

Have a wonderful week all!!

Happy Monday!!

2010-10-04T05:38:00.000-07:00

I took a walk ...just wandered with my camera. The colors are popping here..so beautiful! Last year we had a very hard freeze about now and all the leaves just fell off the trees..no color..ackkkkk! Threw me for the whole year. So this year..I am doing lots of walking and enjoying!

I love this porch..I want mine to look this way..so pretty!!

I got stuck when I found the sunflowers..no surprise there..wow!!

Oh and I had to take some shots of these..so cool looking. Dried Poppy heads!

I love squirrels..I really do...peek a boo...

Excuse me...are you done yet.......

OK so I really got stuck on the squirrels...but they are so cute!!

Happy Monday all!!

Friday My Town Shoot Out

2010-09-24T06:52:00.001-07:00

Well it would seem I have far more pictures that relate to cold..and very few hot pictures...hmmmmm.

Fluffy..

I loved this one..they were so fun to photograph!

Beautiful!

A bit of snow play..so fun!

Buhhhrrrrrrrrrr..was about 12 degrees that day..they are so cute!

A snap of me all bundled up....

The first snow that year...cold tootsies LOL!

I am offering a fun point and shoot photography class starting next week for anyone who might be interested in joining us..click here :)

Here is what it is all about...

Would you like to take photos with the best of them...add a bit of style and an artist's eye to your photography? But you keep telling yourself..but I only have a point and shoot or camera phone? Well this is the course for you.

Then come join me this Fall as I teach you how to use create beautiful, artistic photographs. We will explore a new, simple photography technique and a easy to use and apply editing tool each week. We will share our photos on a private group with discussion boards. So if you want to take your point and shoot photography to the next level..and have some fun in the process..come join me for Photo Bee!

Oh and btw...I am giving away a spot in the class..click here!

Friday My Town Shootout...

2010-09-16T09:02:00.000-07:00

I love taking shots of wild thing...critters and plants. One of my favorite things to do is wildcraft herbs..out in the fields and woods collecting and taking photos!

Local wild critters...

Singing his heart out....

Marsh Marigolds and butterflies...

They look like bitsy pumpkins to me....

Wild thing...ooop ..sorry is my child..giggle..

A surprise critter on this flower...

Lucy Lu Flyin'

Can you say...serious wild thing..my Tink!

V's of geese..

Our wonderful eagles...

Mid flight...

Here I come to kiss ya......

Have a wonderful weekend all!!
Hugs, Sarah

FMTSO....

2010-09-10T06:24:00.000-07:00

Ok I lied...I just couldn't stay away...I love the Fall and all the photos it brings..so I guess I am back ...hope you have not left completely:)

This weeks theme for Friday My Town Shootout is stripes and lines..I love this!!

Have a wonderful weekend all!! Sarah

A Hard Decision.....or two....

2010-08-11T07:35:00.001-07:00

I have been pondering many things of late. I have had to trim down some of what I am doing..as I have spread myself a bit thin. Due to some financial issues this month I had to put my Canon Rebel up for sale on Ebay..which makes me sad..but seriously it was ok once I settled myself with it all. Bills have to be paid. To make a long story short..I have had to regroup in a large way for this fall.

So..here is the thing..I have decided to start posting my photography on my main blog and stop using this one..so if you follow me here (thank you so much) but not on my main blog..please pop on by there and follow me..as I will not be posting here. I would love to see you there!!

Thank you all so much..and see you over there!! Hugs, Sarah

August Break day 10

2010-08-10T06:17:00.001-07:00

August Break Day 9

2010-08-09T06:47:00.001-07:00

August Break Day 7

2010-08-07T05:00:00.000-07:00

August Break Day 6

2010-08-06T05:00:00.000-07:00

August Break #5

2010-08-05T05:00:00.000-07:00

August Break Day 4

2010-08-04T06:44:00.001-07:00

August Break Day 3 :)

2010-08-03T07:12:00.000-07:00

I know not a photo...but mine all the same LOL. Susannah said no rules...so leave it to me to break them quickly!! Happy Tuesday all :)

August Break Day 2

2010-08-02T07:37:00.001-07:00

I really love lantana..Happy Monday all :)

August Break day 1.....

2010-08-01T14:18:00.000-07:00

Friday My Town ShootOut - For Barry

2010-07-30T07:13:00.000-07:00

I have often spoken on my main blog about online friendships...folks would like me to believe that somehow they are not as real, worthwhile or deep as the kinds we make out in the real world. I beg to differ...I have met some amazing folks here online..folks who have become friends, some have become very dear friends. Some have even changed my life...yes that is the truth!
As I pondered Barry..this wonderful dear man and his dear wife Linda..how had they affected me...what do I think of when I think of Barry? You will laugh but the very first thing that popped into my mind was totem poles LOL. I love them..he posted them! But as I gave it some real thought..here is what Barry taught me...
Home is where the heart is...

Companionship of one you enjoy and love is important...

Being goofy is a good thing...

Small things are important..like comments on folks work...

There are always surprises around each corner...

Sometimes they are wonderful and sometimes they are not..but always keep seeking..exploring...

Loved ones are the joy of life!

have fun and explore new things and ideas...

Always keep exploring..over the next bridge he has gone on a new adventure...he will be missed..but not forgotten.

Thank you Barry for all of your caring and inspiration..I for one will deeply miss you!!

Friday My Town Shootout....

2010-07-21T06:33:00.001-07:00

Some Bitsy Bear toes...

I totally missed last week...I had an unexpected five days off...four of them in a row. Given the last two vacations I tried to take were disasterous...illness..etc. I decided...we were gonna take those sweet surprise days off and play! And we did!!! Sorry I missed every ones wonderful posts last week! I will be off to visit this week though!

A couple of horse hooves...love them horses!!

A few of these you may have seen..some are new..some are from my archives..My waffle stompers in the woods..

I love shooting feet, hands and eyes LOL..can ya tell....here are some sweet bunny toes. He is getting old sweet Bun!

Nonni and Mama's toes...

A set of little feet on a balancing ball!

Frozen toes....mine LOL!

One of my very favorite shots..dancing feet!

My toes in my very favorite socks..Acorns!

Have a wonderful weekend all!!

I originally posted this before the news of Barry's passing reached me. I am so deeply saddened by his loss..that wonderful man who made shootouts and life in general a joy to experience through his eyes! My thoughts and prayers are with Linda and the family! He will be missed and so fondly remembered by all he touched!

Friday My Town Shoot Out! Fourth of July

2010-07-08T14:02:00.000-07:00

We are really lucky at our little cottage... we are right in the middle of town...so the parade that goes down the main street downtown..circles around and goes right down our street..so we get to see all the horses and floats!

This gal just cracked me up...on the back of a four wheeler..having so much fun...still makes me giggle!!

Later we headed off to see the fireworks!

Here is a time lapse with Fox and a sparkler..so much fun!

Hope you have a wonderful weekend all, Sarah

Firday My Town Shoot Out...Urban Macro

2010-07-02T07:08:00.001-07:00

So as a photographer...my passion...you guessed it...macro photography...those close in shots of tiny worlds I can't see without my glasses...looove them so much!

So here are a few of my favorites of late...and a couple from last summmer.

Have a wonderful week all, Sarah

Friday My Town Shoot Out...

2010-06-24T12:50:00.000-07:00

Our theme this week is...Water,Lakes & Streams - by Nicole Howard We live near a lake..well right next to one..it is a busy place this time of the year! So here are a few shots of our lovely Lake Coeur D Alene.

Some water pooches...

Some sprinkler water in the sunset rays....

And Fox by the river..with the ever present stick...why do boys pick up every stick they find??

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!! Namaste, Sarah

Friday My Town Shoot Out...

2010-06-17T16:53:00.000-07:00

I think I mentioned on my main blog the other day..I love where I live! I really do. We headed out to the nearby woods this week with the kids to have a bit of nature breather. Last year we didn't have a car..had not for six years...so to get out to the woods this spring and early summer has been heavenly!!

I love the Pacific NW..all the moss that covers things and ferns and flora..makes my heart sing! Little waterfalls and creeks to visit!

Closer to home is Tubbs Hill...just down the street from midtown...right into nature..and the kids love the lake...

A bit of sandstone in a river bed.

Some really big rocks in the bay taken from up on Tubbs.

I thought I might add a little tourmaline..I love this piece..one of my hubby's collection..looks like blood droplets..perfect for the coming debut of the new Twilight movie...I know but I like them!!

Hope you all have a wonderful week!!

Its Tuesday...

2010-05-25T08:14:00.000-07:00

Just a few shots from this week that I liked and thought I might share. This is one of Jim's Aquamarines...pretty huh?

A couple of Iris macros I kinda liked...

The drummers troop from Fox and Nonni's school at artwalk...I kinda liked this one too!

Have a wonderful Tuesday all!! Namaste, Sarah

A Few That Pleased My Eye.....

2010-05-20T12:08:00.000-07:00

Happy Thursday all, Sarah

Friday My Town Shoot Out

2010-05-13T14:58:00.001-07:00

Our theme to day is..New Moon - the darker side of your town. Well..as a huge Twilight fan...yup am..and a Halloween artist...just starting to create for the fall....this was too much fun!! So take a dark walk with me...

Dare you step through these doors?

maybe chance a cup of brew here?

Wander through some haunted gardens...

past the gothic urns?

Take care to watch overhead...

and down below...

Oh...there is a bit of grave dust to be found...

and a beautiful pair of witchy eyes...

And me..in last years dress for Halloween evening...

Happy weekend all...bwahahahahahaha, Sarah

Friday My Town Shootout...

2010-05-06T15:11:00.000-07:00

The theme this week is..things we love to touch. Well all of those sweet faces..yeah I love to touch each and every one!!

I adore getting my hands on these as often as possible..

Oh oh oh I cannot get my hands on enough yarn..I looove it the feel the colors..oh...be still my heart!!

Oh to touch the velvety nose of a horse...heaven!

The silky smooth feel of rose petals..and they just smell sooooo good!!
Mmmmmmm...

Fabric...oh yes fabric...I can never get my hands on enough of that either...

Every July we do one of my very favorite tactile things...we tie dye...for a whole week.

Deliciously wonderful colors, added to delightfully soft cotton...

Equals heaven!

Happy Friday all, Sarah

Kiddo Shots.....

2010-05-04T13:07:00.000-07:00

I have discovered that...I really love taking photos of children.

Those shots where they don't know you have them in your lens...

Those casual, candid shots.

Or when you get them just right and they know it..I love that!

Those little moments in time before they grow like weeds.

Or just make you wanna say...awwwwww...

I am in love with taking pictures of children..what a joy they are!!
Happy Tuesday, Sarah

Friday My Town Shoot Out...& A Sneak Peek

2010-04-30T06:16:00.000-07:00

The subject today is Sports & Games in your town...Well here in Coeur d Alene there is a beautiful lake ...so there is lots of boating! The Iron Man comes through every June..more pictures of that to come..

Of course there is lots of swinging...

Runners everywhere...it seems according to the American Lung Association.. Coeur d Alene is third in the country for clean smog free air!! So a good place to run!!

Of course this is the critter game of the season..singing his little heart out for a mate!!

There is always bee chasing..

Oh we can't forget twirling..

or juggling..we love juggling here...

Some serious bug hunting...giggle..

What is Spring with out chalk...

Or Bubbles..we love bubbles too!

Here is the sneaky peek part...this next Monday I am launching my online class site...."Let Fly E-Courses" I am really excited about this! The very first class up for grabs will be..

Balance for the Creative Soul
"This simple straight forward course is designed to help you organize & balance your artistic pursuits with the demands of daily life."

I hope that you take a minute this weekend and pop on by!!
Have a wonderful weekend all, Sarah

Happy Thursday!

2010-04-29T09:20:00.000-07:00

A little pet...

A bit of ivy...

a few processed clouds

a few beautiful spring flowers...

All make for a wonderful recipe for a great Thursday! Have a wonderful day all!
Namste, Sarah

Friday My Town Shoot Out - Trees for Earth Day

2010-04-21T12:32:00.001-07:00

Here are a few Spring tree shots...I adore trees..but realized I tend to take close up shots rather that many of the whole tree. I will work on that!

I loved the fact that these silver maples were fall colors as they popped out for spring. If you double click on the picture you can see the little glittery edges.

Have a wonderful weekend all, Sarah

A Few That Pleased My Eye..

2010-04-21T09:44:00.001-07:00

Just a few shots from the last week that pleased my eye..hope you enjoy them too!

Friday My Town Shoot Out...

2010-04-14T13:29:00.001-07:00

One shot that makes me smile and why....

I have to have some serious dental work on Thursday and will be out of commission for the rest of the weekend..so I am posting early!
I looove this shot..still one of my favorite pics. This little man was with his family at the Iron Man Race last June. He so wanted to pet this Chocolate Doodle. Of course the sweet pooch was thrilled to oblige. As soon as this little fellow got his fingers in the fur he melted into a bowl full of squeals and giggles. Ahhh puppy love!
Have a great weekend all, Sarah

Storm Rolling In.....

2010-04-13T14:42:00.000-07:00

Every now and again we get those spectacular storms that roll through with beautiful clouds.

Before it pours you can get those wonderful shots...

of beautiful towering cloud formations. To get a better look click on the pictures!

Happy Tuesday all, Sarah

Wordless Wednesday...

2010-04-07T10:27:00.001-07:00

Happy Easter all!!!

2010-04-03T19:09:00.000-07:00

Have a wonderful Easter all! Hugs, Sarah

Friday My Town Shootout...

2010-04-02T15:35:00.001-07:00

This weeks theme is Bokeh..here is Wikipedias definition...."In photography, bokeh is the blur,[1][2] or the aesthetic quality of the blur,[3][4][5] in out-of-focus areas of an image, or "the way the lens renders out-of-focus points of light."[6] Differences in lens aberrations and aperture shape cause some lens designs to blur the image in a way that is pleasing to the eye, while others produce blurring that is unpleasant or distracting— "good" or "bad" bokeh, respectively.[1] Bokeh occurs for parts of the scene that lie outside the depth of field. Photographers sometimes deliberately use a shallow focus technique to create images with prominent out-of-focus regions."

Have a wonderful weekend all!! Namaste, Sarah

Friday My Town Shoot Out....

2010-03-25T17:20:00.000-07:00

Squirrel!!!!!

So the theme this week is Bridges in black and white. Never one to take things literally...I added a few different kinds of bridges this week. I did try to stay as close to black and white as possible. Above you will see a classic squirrel bridge.

Here is an old logging bridge out in the woods.

A guitar bridge..that bar under my Hanna's flying fingers.

A bridge that leads out to the Resort docks..lots of gulls hang out here!

If you look close in the background through all the fog is a highway bridge.

I loved this series of shots... one crow bridging the gap to the other one.

Stepping closer...

Closer...

Here let me love on you...I love this. One crow grooming another..it was sweet to watch them care so gently for each other.

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!! Hugs, Sarah

Macro Monday

2010-03-22T05:15:00.000-07:00

I have been so busy of late...I have not been able to join in the macro fun. So I thought I might be able to add a couple today.

Happy Monday all, Namaste, Sarah

Whoot a Photo Tag...how fun is this.....

2010-03-19T10:03:00.000-07:00

LOL my dear friend Suzie has tagged me with this fun photo tag! I love these..always a fun surprise to see what everyone ends up with!
Here is my sweet Lucy Lu playing toe tag. This is how she engages me in a conversation or just some silly fun. She tags my toe - yup that is my foot she is standing on..and she talks to me...roooooo...rururururur...woof...chuff chuff. She cracks me up. So this is the first photo folder and the tenth picture in it..Lucy Lu.
So I think I will tag....let see.....

Debra @ She who Seeks
Liz @ The Fragrant Muse
Brenda @ Wicked Wool Gathering
Sonia @ Dark Ravens Nest

Thank you Suzie for the smile today!!:)

Friday My Town Shoot Out - Favorite Color

2010-03-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

Green is my favorite color. That wonderful blue green, spring green, forest green..love them all! So I added a few I have not shared before, a couple of my favorite green shots you may have already seen, and a couple from this week as spring is upon us here in North Idaho.

Have a wonderful weekend all! Namaste, Sarah

PS..for a few more greens about my town please go to my main blog!

Friday My Town Shoot Out..

2010-03-11T15:23:00.001-08:00

I appologize..I had to go to my archive pics for this week. It has been a rough couple of weeks and am not sure I am keeping my head above water. Some good stress, some not so much..so this week I went digging..here are a few for me..

Some sweethearts...

A Trellis.

I love this house..always done up for the holidays..this was mid summer!

Hope yoyu all have a wonderful weekend! Hugs, Sarah

A Few That Pleased My Eye..

2010-03-09T05:18:00.001-08:00

I have been missing in action for the last week or so. I have been reordering life in general..you know spring cleaning and getting my school ready for the next season of teaching. I have been working on a couple of kiddo shoots which has been new and fun. I have several commission pieces I am working on and a conference that I had to attend. Not to mention..just stress in general..you know daily life! So the fact that I didn't post for a week kinda shocked me..so here are a few that I liked this week. Off to visit some of you!

Here is Fox being well a boy..yup!

Tink is finally used to me snapping shots..she sits still for me...YAY!! No flash with the animals.

Playing with my telephoto lens from across the yard..serious bug hunting!

One of my candid kiddo shots..isn't she beautiful!!

Have a great week all..will be back to do the shootout this week!! Hugs, Sarah

Bubbles....

2010-03-02T11:47:00.001-08:00

I had a bit of fun with some soap bubbles that went flying out of my dish soap bottle. I snagged the camera and hoped to grab a few quick macros before they popped.

I think I need to give my violets a gentle dusting...wow!!

Happy Tuesday all! Hugs, Sarah

Friday My Town Shootout..

2010-02-25T13:51:00.000-08:00

My sweet Tink..really close up.

I know...it was my subject...but over the last year I have so enjoyed taking candid shots of faces. Catching beautiful faces when they didn't know I was snapping. So many beautiful opportunities. So here are a few of my favs from this last year.

This one still makes me smile..this kiddo was giggling so hard..too cute.

This beautiful butterfly face...

My friend Deb's horse River.

Oh my look at that sweet face..don't ya want to pet him?

Nonni's student teacher playing teacher tag...beautiful!

One of Nonni's friends...love this!

This wonderful family was hiking and let me take a few shots of them on Tubbs Hill.

Tink walking to me..chatting all the way.

Taking "Unraveling" this last 8 weeks..we have had to offer up lots of pics of us. So here is one of me sporting my new short hair!

Have a great week all..can't wait to see what you all choose! Hugs, Sarah

For Renee....

2010-02-21T13:56:00.001-08:00

Dear Renee loves the color yellow..so I thought I might honor her by offering up her very favorite color. I have poured our my heart through my tears on my main blog..but it seemed right to do this here. So here are a few yellows to honor my dear freind. Love you Renee...may you be at peace hon.

Friday My Town Shoot Out....

2010-02-19T06:33:00.001-08:00

So ...we don't really have a town center per se...but this is the spot where our Town events start. The Christmas Lake lighting and fireworks the day after Thanksgiving, Fourth of July fireworks, The Iron Man Event, Art on the Green, Etc..it all starts down here by the lake.

It is also the hub for most of the summer activities as the main dock is here. There is also a float plane that gives tours.

We have lots of these here too.

I will be back later this afternoon..off to my kiddos school this morning!
Have a great weekend all!!

A Few That Pleased My Eye...

2010-02-15T19:41:00.001-08:00

Ok so these really are my eyes...altered a bit to show my darker side.

Here is Tink wandering my way!

A Storm rolling into the valley were we were hiking.

A frozen leaf..

I didn't alter this one..just cropped it..the sky here is an amazing color!

A jumble of young tree trunks.

This one just cracks me up...mid meow...giggle!!

Have a great Tuesday all, Sarah

Happy Valentines All!!

2010-02-14T10:59:00.001-08:00

Friday My Town Shootout..Circles

2010-02-04T15:21:00.000-08:00

This weeks fun subject by Kerry is..circles! Can you tell I loved this one? I was thinking that due to all of the cold and snow back east this year..and a total lack of snow here. Seriously..it is like late March here...so it is either gonna snow soon...or seriously we might as well get on with Spring. Did I mention I like the snow? So for all of you wishing for Spring..I thought I would dig into my photos from last year and offer up a bit of Springy color!!

Oh and this one..because..well I just like it:) Hugs, Sarah

Wow..what you saw....

2010-02-02T12:44:00.002-08:00

In my last post I showed you a picture of a reverse process picture of the moon. I was this face in it when I posted it to Flicker.

some of you saw the Black lagoon monster..

some of you saw a bear or a pig...so much fun all!!

What do you see??

Man in the moon??

2010-02-01T06:20:00.001-08:00

Do you see the face..is it just me? This is a shot of the moon last Thursday night..I reversed process just for fun....and saved it. I didn't notice this until I uploaded it to another site...very strange but kinda cool! Happy Monday all!

Friday My Town Shootout..Look Up..Look Down..

2010-01-28T18:53:00.000-08:00

(please click on the pictures to make them larger)
There is just something magical about fog.. Softens everything. Takes all the hard edges off everything..kinda like natural bokeh!!

So this weeks the theme is Look Up and Look Down...how fun was this. For the first time in a while every one of my photos in my shootout was taken this week..so here we go..look up at this seagull in the fog.

Look down at this fellow..let me get up close...

I just had to go down there and see what was there...

Look what I found..bitsy mushrooms!!

I also looked up and found these new little buds..waaaay too early for these!!

I looked down and saw the remains of Fall.

I looked closer and saw this beautiful moss carpet..

Then at band camp...uhmmm sorry ...I looked up and spied this sweet little bird...so need a telephoto..maybe when taxes come back....

Oh and then I saw this beautiful crow fly over my head..his wings made this amazing whooshing sound..

Last night I looked up and saw this beautiful moon!

Are ya dizzy yet?? Hope you all have a wonderful week!! Namaste, Sarah

A Few That Pleased My Eye..

2010-01-26T10:52:00.000-08:00

We actually got a bit of snow yesterday..well a couple inches in about an hour. Sadly..it all melted!! But I had some fun while it lasted!!

Took a photo taking hike on Sunday..soooo needed the fresh air and the peace and quite! I forget to get out some weeks I am so busy!!

This beautiful boy was our with his people!

He wanted to play water fetch...until he hit the water...brrrrrr about 38 degrees!!

Hid Dad threw it waaaaaay out there..he got half way and came back..so they went out on the dock that was closer!! Sweet boy he went out and got it after a bit of asking!

I ran into this wonderful family while hiking...

Can you see them there on the point?

Hope you all have a wonderful Tuesday!! Hugs, Sarah

Friday My Town Shoot Out....

2010-01-21T14:08:00.000-08:00

Well as we are in the mountains..there are lots of these about..going north or south..honking along the way. There are lots of crows and a few wonderful eagles..showed you those last week.

This sweet pooch - so very quiet here..sleeping on her pillow..talks as much as the kids do..rowwowowo.rororo.aroooooo..chuff chuff...cracks me up..

This fellow has a very serious conversation with me daily..each morning as I let Tink out of the house!!

I am guessing it has something to do with her doing this...

Then there are the kiddos..wonderfully loud..but what fun!!

and these water dogs..loud and splashy..lots of these around here!

One of my very favorite sounds....the espresso machine at Java! I do love my coffee!!

Have a wonderful week all!! Namaste, Sarah

Heart Me Baby.....

2010-01-20T19:17:00.001-08:00

I am very fond of gem gels! You know the jello looking things that cling to the windows. I have several sets for different seasons and holidays..I loove them. The kids do too! It is an event when the next set comes out..everyone wants a chance to give them a try! I have also discovered this month they are wicked fun to photograph...

A Few That Pleased My Eye ...

2010-01-16T20:38:00.000-08:00

A few shots that I liked this week!!

These stunning eyes belong to this beautiful girl! She is the student teacher in Nonni's room. Caught her playing teacher tag...isn't she just beautiful?!!

Nonni did her very first juggling performance Friday..she was wonderful..so proud..she is soooo serious!!

Here is Lexi..one of her friends..look at that smile!!!

I loved this shot of Nonni!

Another of her friends..I really liked this one too!

Hope you all have a wonderful Sunday all!! Namaste, Sarah

Friday My Town Shootout - Birds

2010-01-15T06:34:00.001-08:00

Scriptor Senex the UK gave us our theme this week Birds. Whoot thank you, thank you..one of my favorite subjects. I don't really want to own one..but have a passion for seeing them in the wild!!

We have quite a few of these fellows around here...

I have quite a few inside...my Austrian sparrows.

My 1970's owl pair...love them!

Some shore birds..looooove shore birds..

I have one piece by Jim Shore. I would love a few more..whimsical fun!

I know several of you saw my eagle shots from December...but I thought I might share them again..so much fun.

My little Canon Power Shot SX110 could only get so close. Still...I think this was my very favorite shot that day. This last week I bought a brand new Canon Rebel XSi EOS..whoot happy dancin.

Last but not least..is Fredrick..he is an illustration of mine from my illustrated book.

No post on birds would be complete if I didn't share my very favorite bird photographer with you. So go visit Keith over at Holding Moments..the man is amazing!
I will be back this afternoon to visit everyone..off to my kiddos school for a juggling performance!! Have a great weekend all! Namaste, Sarah

A Few that Pleased My Eye & A New Toy...

2010-01-11T14:12:00.000-08:00

Giggle..I love Lucy Lu.

I have a new toy this week..I am over the moon..happy dancin..so thrilled. A Canon Rebel SXi.Whoo hooo. So I have been trying it out...seeing what it can do. Well..more like what I can do LOL! Here are a few shots from the last couple of days of playing.

I am taking Unravelling with Susannah Conway. We were to take reflections of ourselves this week..here is one of mine.

I love this shot of Tink..crystal clear...I love this camera...I really do ...sigh..

Here she is sound asleep on Fox's lap.

Jim brought home a huge bunch of mineral specmines this Sunday..I had some fun with them. This is the center of a geode.

This is a slab of agate..doesn't it look like a Chinese dragon??

I like this one..a slab of geode..such delicious caramel colors!!

Have a great Monday all! Namaste, Sarah

Friday My Town Shoot Out...

2010-01-07T19:34:00.001-08:00

I don't think I realized how many pictures of fences I have taken last year!! I think most of them are new..although I added a couple of my favorites.

Nonni lookin' at llamas...

Our neighbors garden..isn't it stunning!! They keep bees too!!

One of my very favorite shots from this Fall.

Our street on the fourth of July..very busy walking traffic.

Tink and Oreo..

Another neighbors yard..so fun!

Giggle..love this one too!! Happy Friday all, Sarah

Friday My Town Shootout..

2010-01-02T07:16:00.001-08:00

Sorry I am late this week..finally coming up for air..LOL!
I think this was one of my favorite shots of Fox this month! So very him. Creating, constructing, thinking..having fun with it all!

Of course you knew I would go in a different direction here! I love it when we construct relationships like this..Hanna and Nonni at Christmas. Love her face.

There is a whole lot of knitting under construction going on around here too...

I loved constructing this one for my dear friend Renee..here is an "under Construction" work in progress..

Here is the completed piece..

Of course there is always me...I am forever "under construction"!

Happy New Year all! Namaste, Sarah

Oh and I am having a giveaway on my other blog if you are interested....

Blue Moon..

2009-12-30T09:49:00.000-08:00

2009 will finish it's last breathes with a Blue moon. We will not have another until 2028. Two lunar cycles meeting in one month..two full moons. I think that this blue moon..falling on 1-1-2010 should be a lucky day..maybe a lucky year..if it isn't it should!! At least that is the belief..blue moons bring luck! I like this..I do. So here is to a lucky New Year to each and every one of you!! I will go out singing..Baloooooooooah Maooooooonnnnnn!
Happy New Year all, Sarah

Friday My Town Shoot Out....Angels

2009-12-24T07:39:00.001-08:00

I think only angels could create this beautiful design..with feathery wings dipped in liqued magic.

This face..one of my sweet angels...Kate.

Not one of mine ..but do you see the angel in this sweet face?

Sweet angel here.....

Angel baby and her Guardian Angel...

Furry angels..my Lucy Lu...

Two more of my sweet angels...Hanna and Nonni..

Oh look at the joy..more angels...

Yup pure angel here...

Ok..so this one has a bit of the devil in him...giggle...but mostly angel too!

May you all have a wonderful Christmas...blessings and Namaste, Sarah

Friday My Town Shootout ....

2009-12-17T19:47:00.001-08:00

The lanterns are lit...well ok they are on...

The little birds are all fluffed up.

The wreaths are hung..

And the beautiful house up the street is decked out in it's Christmas finest.
I love this house..they always do it up right..every season..it is beautiful!

Sorry my shootout is a bit slim...between a house hold full of pinkeye and nonstop rain for the last few days..I didn't have a chance to get many shots in. Hope you all have a wonderful holiday..Merry Christmas from the Sullivan clan!!
Namaste, Sarah

Snowplay...

2009-12-16T14:43:00.000-08:00

Yesterday it looked like this...so we went out and had some fun in the snow!!

I do love these sweet faces!!

Happy Wednesday all, Sarah

Macro Monday...

2009-12-14T10:07:00.001-08:00

When I got up at 5am this morning and fired up the computer..a nasty virus popped up and shut down everything. It took me three hours and lots of going through the back door to locate the virus and delete it from the system. Thank goodness!!
Sooooo..am really late in getting this up and playing catch up with everything else. This is a shot of my latest knitting project. Nonni wanted leg warmers..let warmers she shall have!!
Have a great week all!! Namaste, Sarah

A Few That Pleased My Eye....

2009-12-12T16:39:00.001-08:00

We headed out to the lake to see the annual migration of the Bald Eagles. What a joy it is to see them here!! The kids were so excited!!

I do not have the camera power to catch tight closeups of them..but I was able to get a few to share with you all anyway.

There was wonderful gal there with some serious equipment...I have camera envy..I really do. They were taking photos of the eagles too! Stunning shots and a wonderful eye..to see some amazing pictures taken there today by Missi...please click here!

She was sweet enough to show me this Kokanee Salmon..who clearly had been eaten..but made for some very cool macros! I know Ewwww..but look at those teeth...and the tongue...I think it is has teeth too!!

Some bits of leftovers..

I really loved this shot..but cannot seem to get it to load right side up..its sideways..any thoughts all??

Have a great weekend, Sarah

Friday My Town Shoot Out...

2009-12-11T06:09:00.000-08:00

Emma choose the theme this week...Weather! My Nonni was the first one out the door!! A bit later I took my camera out and walked about town..I do love the snow! Not too much yet..but it is frigid outside here!!!

Look at those beautiful faces!!

And this one seriously needs more clothing!! Brrrrrr...

I think the fur coat helps a bit and look at that jacket..giggle..to cute!

Who do these tracks belong to??

Well this fat fellow...look at that beautiful coat!

And these? Clearly they were arguing over this crushed walnut..

Why these strutting crows!

One last shot..it stopped me in my tracks..that last beautiful Fall leaf.

Macro Monday..

2009-12-06T20:50:00.000-08:00

A few of you saw my frost series on my main blog..but I was happy with the way they turned out and wanted to share them here as well. Here are a few of them and a pretty silver Christmas bow.

If you would like to join Macro Monday..please click on the icon in my left column!
Namaste, Sarah

Friday My Town Shootout..

2009-12-02T10:22:00.001-08:00

Well there is this of course..one of my very favorite things to do..create artwork.

Fall is my favorite season then... Winter comes next - whoo hoo!!

I love catching shots like this..another one of my very favorite things to do..

Anything involving a horse..is automatically a favorite of mine.

Of course these girls of mine..

And this darling boy are my very favorite children.

On Mondays you will find me doing one of my favorite things...hosting my Quilting Bee on my main blog.

One of my favorite things to watch..wild birds...I get this from my Mom! I was thrilled to find several pairs of Cedar Waxwings in the yard last week!!

A Few That Pleased My Eye....

2009-12-01T15:54:00.001-08:00

Happy Tuesday all, Sarah

Macro Monday..

2009-11-29T21:35:00.001-08:00

I took a break this weekend..I didn't Internet much, or artwork much I did relax and do this though....I knit..I love knitting, I do..very relaxing.

I also ate alot of this..yup pie..yummmmy!

Friday My Town Shoot Out....

2009-11-27T07:03:00.000-08:00

Yup it's me today...my theme is "Faces and Smiles". I love snapping faces..especially the candid ones!! Here are a few of my face shots from this year..ones I liked..hope you do too! A few you may have seen..bear with me! Have a great weekend all!! Namaste, Sarah

Yup that's me and my daughter Hanna!:)

Happy Thanksgiving All!

2009-11-26T07:04:00.001-08:00

Before I go stuff the turkey and get cookin' for the day..I wanted to pop in and tell you all how blessed I am to have met you here!! I have had such joy coming to your blogs and looking at your amazing photos!! I have been touched by your words about mine!! Thank you all and have a wonderful Thanksgiving!! Namaste, Sarah

Friday My Town shoot Out...

2009-11-20T06:00:00.000-08:00

Today' theme is.."Your Town's Premier Attraction" by Kent. With out a doubt our city revolves around Lake Coeur d Alene. A very large part of our town's economy comes from tourism and all that happens on and around the lake.

It is large and supports sailing and many other fun summer sports. A short five block walk from our house..that water calls us all year long!

A short five block walk from our house..the lake calls us even in the chilly season!

Lots of water puppies here...

A favorite spot of teens here..jumping off Tubbs Hill!!

Hope you all have a wonderful week!! Namaste, Sarah

A Few That Pleased My Eye....

2009-11-19T07:25:00.000-08:00

I looked out my back door yesterday morning and saw this...one of those OMG where is my camera moments. The first two were straight out of the camera plus a watermark.

These two I played with a little.. for some reason they reminded me of the end of Gone with the Wind..or the Wizard of Oz. Anyway..they pleased my eye. Hope you enjoy them too. Namaste, Sarah

Macro Monday

2009-11-16T06:06:00.001-08:00

This one just makes me hungry. A closeup of the treat cups at Nonni's Kindergarten Halloween party.

I finally lured a few sparrows close enough to sneak a few shots.

Here are a couple of my husband's mineral specimens. I do all of the photography for his Ebay listings. I am currently working on a collection of shots to offer on greeting cards at his shows.

Have a wonderful week all! Namaste, Sarah

Friday My Town Shootout..

2009-11-13T04:21:00.000-08:00

Today's topic is Places of Worship..by Rebecca. Many of you know I live in the garden district of our town. I love it, I really do. Lots of older homes, ours is about 100. One of the things I love about living here is the church bells. Not annoying ones, the lovely twice a day tolling that makes me feel at peace. I am not Catholic but this beautiful Catholic church is just up the street and around the corner from us. It has been here a good long time..but it is a stunning building.

When my preschoolers and I walk by they insist that it is a castle, not a church..they are convinced..no swaying the three year olds!!

Of course there is something to be said about worshiping in a place like this..how could you miss the grandeur and heart touching beauty here?

When I look upon something like this...I give thanks that I am blessed with delicate beauty like this in my life!!

Namaste, Sarah

A Couple of Shots That Pleased My Eye..

2009-11-10T14:41:00.001-08:00

Friday My Town Shoot Out... Skylines

2009-11-05T15:07:00.000-08:00

Kate chose this fun topic today..skylines! Here is the skyline up my street.

Across the valley...

Over the resort...

Above the Federal building..

Over this amazing sign..

Even the smallest critters have a skyline here..

Namaste all, Sarah

Oooo an Award!!

2009-11-04T14:50:00.000-08:00

Oh I love these...thank you so very much Suzie and Jarielyn!! I'm touched you both thought of me!! Whoo hoo....

1. Where is your cell phone? none
2. Your hair? Red
3. Your mother? passed on
4. Your father? passed on
5. Your favorite food? Chinese
6. Your dream last night? Whoot
7. Your favorite drink? Latte
8. Your dream/goal? Illustrator
9. What room are you in? Livingroom
10. Your hobby? knitting
11. Your fear? trapped
12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? successful
13. Where were you last night? Home
14. Something that you aren't? lazy
15. Muffins? lemon
16. Wish list item? retreat
17. Where did you grow up? NewYork
18. Last thing you did? cleaned
19. What are you wearing? granola
20. Your TV? Scifi
21. Your pets? delightful
22. Friends? blessings
23. Your life? exciting
24. Your mood? energized
25. Missing someone? Kate
26. Vehicle? Blazer
27. Something you're not wearing? hoodie
28. Your favorite store? Michaels
29. Your favorite color?chartreuse
30. When was the last time you laughed? minute
31. Last time you cried? morning
32. Your best friend? many
33. One place that I go to over and over? Leanbean
34. One person who emails me regularly? Sherry
35. Favorite place to eat? Thai Bamboo

Next, I have to pass this award on to six other bloggers.
Here are a few I love.... all so deserving!!
Linda
Stregata
Alisha
Jennifer
Sarahlulu
Becky
Heather

Macro Monday...

2009-11-01T18:06:00.000-08:00

Here is a bit of post Halloween fun. Am feeling quite yucky today..so just a couple for today. Have a wonderful week!! Namaste, Sarah

To join Macro Monday..click here!

Happy Halloween All!!

2009-10-31T08:11:00.001-07:00

I hope everyone has a wonderful and safe Halloween!! Namaste, Sarah

Friday My Town Shoot Out!

2009-10-30T06:04:00.000-07:00

JarieLyn gave us our fun subject today ~~ Parks! Tubbs Hill is a very popular park area in Coeur d Alene. There is a decent hike around the hill on one side and the other side is filled with baseball fields a playground, a tennis court and backs up to our wonderful library! Tubbs overlooks our wonderful Lake Coeur d Alene..a popular water spot for the region! We are a fortunate 5 block walk away!!

The beginning of the hike...I love this hike!!

Mudgy the moose is our storybook mascot for the hike around Tubbs and Coeur d Alene. A local author created a book all about the walk!

A very popular beach and cliff umping spot off Tubbs..

And water bug catchin' place..

And the playground....look at those sweet faces

Have a wonderful weekend all..I'm off to School Halloween parties....
Namaste, Sarah

Macro Monday

2009-10-26T06:52:00.000-07:00

Just a few Autumn shots for today!

The last of my marigolds..

My sweet little oak tree, one of the few that didn't freeze and turn brown this year!

If you would like to join Macro Mondays please click here!!

Have a wonderful week all! Namaste, Sarah

Friday My Town Shootout...

2009-10-22T12:40:00.000-07:00

This week is childhood memories by Ellisa.

The Jedi Master..giggle..love this one..

Bubble blowing..

Spring watering...

Yup playin' outside creates these faces!!

That first Spring swing..heaven!!

Bug collecting is huge here...

Swinging.I loved swinging..isn't she a doll!!

More bug..well..slug collecting...

I do a summer camp type program during vacation. We do science, art, and a full week of tie dying. Here are the older learing about fire with a magnifying glass...

Fox amd Nonni collecting horse chestnuts..

One of my favorite things to do with the kiddos in the fall..leaf pressing with wax paper.

Hope you all have a wonderful week!! Namaste, Sarah

Macro Monday....

2009-10-19T05:51:00.000-07:00

Hi all I am not adding my name to the linky thingy today..as I know I will be wicked busy. But I will visit some of you later. So if you were kind enough to pop in anyway...here are a couple of treats from my party this weekend on my main blog..click here to join in the fun. I will join in next week again!!
Namaste, Sarah

Friday My Town Shoot Out

2009-10-16T05:21:00.000-07:00

I have had a wickedly busy week..so I apologise for the lack of photos this week. This weeks theme is by Sherry in Florida...Sunrises and sunsets! I wanted to share the couple I had rather than not at all. So here are my three favorite sunset pics. Hope you enjoy them!! Have a great weekend all!!
Namaste, Sarah

For other wonderful Friday My Town Shoot out photographers..please click here!!

Macro Monday...

2009-10-11T19:40:00.000-07:00

Here are a few macros of one of my violets. I love the fact that they look like they have been glittered with fairy dust!

This sweet little fellow is one of our preschool plant buddies. He has been with me for many years. Sitting in one plant or another through rooms full of two year olds. I am quite fond of him. Have a wonderful week all!! Namaste, Sarah

If you would like to join Macro Mondays, please click on this pic in the left column.

Friday My Town Shoot Outs...

2009-10-08T19:16:00.000-07:00

My shootout has a few repeats and is a bit thin this week. I have had a wickedly busy week and hope you can forgive the small number of shots..Thanks all!! Carrie offered up this sweet assignment this week "silhouettes".
Namaste, Sarah

A Birthday Gift from Me to You.....

2009-10-07T07:46:00.000-07:00

Well...today is my birthday (49 yikes) and I thought I might offer up a little sweet eye candy to all of you. So here is a gift from me..a few of my very favorite shots from this last year. Hope you enjoy. Namaste, Sarah

Macro Monday

2009-10-05T07:11:00.001-07:00

I thought I would do a few Fall type shots today. The kids collected up horse chestnuts for me this weekend. The yard is full already! So we added them to some of our volunteer pumpkin crop from this summer.

If you would like to join us at Macro Monday..please click on the photo in the left column!! Namaste, Sarah

Friday My Town Shoot Out!

2009-10-02T06:04:00.000-07:00

I am more of an older architecture kind of gal..but as I was at the park this week looking at the two sisters...I thought how beautiful they were to me from that angle. These two luxury condo buildings created a stir when they went up..high and larger than most everything around them. Some folks were a bit miffed as they blocked the view. These sisters look out over our beautiful lake. But as I snapped shots of them from below..I thought they were quite nice. Starting with a combo shot of their lower floors - you may notice one of our very favorite hang outs...

Each condo in these buildings cost a pretty penny. Often owned by folks who visit rather than live there - but not all. The lower floors house businesses. Some of my favorites in town!

I guess if I was going to spend a mill on a house it would be a large ranch and huge lodge - but that's just me.

The sister on the right has been here longer and thus..the vegetation on it is a bit older.

I made sure that my shots offered here did not invade privacy in any way. I shot during the time of day that light was reflected off the windows. I love the little maple on the penthouse roof!!

I have to wonder though..is that a birdhouse or a camera??

Yup..on the bottom level of the sister on the left is our favorite bakery and doggy watchin' spot.

I hope you all have a wonderful week!! Namaste, Sarah

Macro Mondays

2009-09-28T05:31:00.001-07:00

The kids and I headed up to the woods this weekend for some hiking and fun. Along the way the kids helped me spy a few things to share today.

This was the best part of Fox's day. He very gently caught him so we could snap a pic and then let him go. We decided that he truly looked like a real fairy as he flew off. Happy to be rid of us. Isn't he just beautiful!

These caught the eye!!

Fox spied out this sweet little mushroom for me...

Of course this fungus just screamed..stop and take a look!

If you would like to join Macro Monday..please click on this picture in the left column to take you there!!

Have a wonderful week all!! Namaste, Sarah

Critter Sunday....

2009-09-27T06:11:00.000-07:00

So Fox, Nonni and I went tootling up to Athol yesterday. We used to live up that way and it holds a very dear spot in my heart. I love it there I really do! We saw lots of fun critters, much to the kiddos delight!! Here are a few! Above this handsome fellow!! Clearly well cared for and loved.

Can you see Nonni's little hand waving to this beauty? I'm hoping out of five children that I might just get one horsey girl!!!

This pretty golden was having a wonderful time!!

Here is another good lookin' horse - an Arab.

Along with the herd of horses was this lone companion goat! I loooove goats almost as much as horses!! Adore the purple collar!

We also saw a few alpacas....not to be confused with....

...their larger cousins..llamas! Very serious this one. Wonderful herd managers. Often they are used in this area rather than dogs to keep the sheep and goats safe from predators.

Have a wonderful Sunday all, Sarah

My Late..Friday Shoot out....

2009-09-25T16:18:00.001-07:00

So I guess I'm lucky...my very favorite place to be is right here in my little cottage here in Coeur d Alene. I really do love this house - I do.
Or with this goofy crew in the back yard....

But when I venture out to other spots I enjoy here is the first with two kiddos I adore..my Fox and Nonni at the Bakery by the Lake.

Or a thousand feet up viewing this amazing panorama....

Or with my nose in the neck of this handsome fellow, my friends horse River..I do love that horsey smell...

Last but not least..I find a great deal of bliss right here at my art table or lap table..creating.

My Missing, Friday My Town Shoot Out..

2009-09-25T06:04:00.000-07:00

Ok I feel really sheepish. I spend quite a bit of time on my shootout last night..getting it just right and ready to fly. Went to the main blog to get the link our leader in subject this week...only to find I had done next weeks theme. Geesh..so I am all ready for next week and nothing to show for this morning. But....if you will be patient and come back to see me later today..I will have completed this weeks assignment by then. Thanks all, Sarah

Macro Mondays..

2009-09-21T05:49:00.001-07:00

Here are a few end of Summer beginning of Fall shots! I missed last week, happy to be back this week!!

If you would like to join us...please click on this picture in the left column! Have a wonderful week and thanks for popping in to see my work!! Namaste, Sarah

Friday, My Town Shoot Out!

2009-09-17T19:52:00.000-07:00

So this is one of my favorite subjects..domestic critters is the theme today from Sandy in Apache Junction, AZ!! I love them, love to shoot them! So this was really a fun theme for me. Please forgive me if you have already seen a couple of these..I added several of my favorite critter shots.
Above my sweet Lucy Lu... below, my friend Deb's, beautiful boy..River.

This pup was at the coffee shop at a near by table..total poser!!

Here is Lucy Lu flying....

My Tink and a neighbors kit Oreo at play...

This handsome boy Meeko, is part Malamute..look at those eyes!!

I shot this black lab ball chasing in the lake!!

Heehee..I just love this one. They were hanging out at the coffee shop when Fox (ten) and I were having a Mama-Son date. Ten year old boys love this stuff. Me too - so cute..

Here is Lucy getting some of her energy out..she is a Border Collie...

Here is a Chocolate Doodle..isn't he wonderful??

Last but not least..our old bunny Foofoo. He and his brother came to us as giveaways. They are sweet and very old now. Turning gray and not quite as peppy as they used to be..but just as sweet. It's almost time for them to head into their cozy indoor winter condo complete with heat lamp and lots of cozy hay. It will be too cold for old bunnies pretty soon. Thanks for popping by!!

Friday My Town Shoot Out....

2009-09-11T10:08:00.000-07:00

This weeks Shootout is Aged & Weathered by Pauline... here are a few for me....

Macro Monday...

2009-09-07T09:00:00.000-07:00

I just fell in love with these dark red sunflowers and the bumble bee was a lovely addition!! I just love their beautiful wings!!

We took a tootle out to a friends ranch this weekend..this sweet hen was very curious about my lens.

If you would like to join Macro Mondays...please click on the MM Avatar in my left column!! Thank you for popping by!!! Namaste, Sarah

Friday My Town Shootout...

2009-09-04T07:20:00.000-07:00

I have to say I am sorry for missing last week...it was one of those weeks that everything that had to be done before school started....my plate was a bit full. But here are a few for this week. Doors and windows was Kerri's choice of theme this week. I love this one..favorite subjects of mine. So I will start with my very favorite doors. Above my sweet front door..I looove the color I really do!

Here is a shot of my back door this week. It has been taken over by volunteer pumpkins and mini pumpkin vines!! How fun is that. We will have about a dozen little ones and at least two regular sized ones - whoo hoo!!

Here is sweet Lucy Lu at the front door screen. She wants to join us!! Isn't she sweet?

So if I had to choose another door in town to be mine it would be this one!! It is attached to one of my very favorite buildings in town.

Here is the front door to the old school building I had my last classroom in. It is sadly not filled with children anymore, but offices. I looove this building!

This delightful red door belongs to a neighbor...I like this one too!!!

This beautiful Catholic church is about two blocks from our house. It has church bells. I love them every day at noon and 6 pm. Beautiful~

Last not but least..the windows to the soul.