Picture this.... Scrap Happens!

oops!

2011-07-26T23:26:00.002-06:00

well this is a simple admission of guilt...

I CHEATED!

Yep, Cheated... I went to scrapbookers paradise in Calgary and with out even thinking I spent money... $35...

how many pages have I done, well, 3 ....

so even if I was justifying my actions I still couldn't account for $10 ....

feeling guilty, had to confess...

now its done!

Not sure what the next step is after admitting you have made a mistake...

My name is Laura S and I am a shopaholic... (among other things, but we can save that for another post!)

ooxx

a challenge...

2011-06-27T23:10:00.004-06:00

My friend Jackie was in the other day and I was asking her about any of her latest scrapbook purchases, she works at a scrapbook store part time so often has the in on things that I like. She mentioned that due to a challenge she was doing with some friends of our, that she hadn't bought anything in a while, I was intrigued . I guess he had heard of it from another client of the store and do to the extremeness of the rules changed it a bit to better suit her skill. Anyway, long story short, I have decided to throw my hat in the ring and give it a go too.

THe rules are easy, NO scrapbook shopping till you finish 20 pages, when ever you finish a page you put $5.00 in a jar, at the end of 20 pages you have $100.00 to spend on scrapbook supplies. Only exception is consumables, like glue, card stock... ect. It is a way to use up what you have, save your money, and really think about what that next purchase will be.

With all of that in mind, here are my first three pages, so nice to have something to motivating me to get scrapbooking again!!

Thanks for the great idea, hope I can handle it!

FOr those wondering, the other groups rules where they had to wait till they had 100 pages done, I agree that this could take a life time with the way we visit more than ever scrapbook, so for now we start at 20pages...

Wanna join the challenge with me?

if so send me a note, and you can be part of our challenge...

Here are my first three pages!

Camp Croppin'

2010-04-18T22:51:00.006-06:00

Am finally starting to come down off an awesome scrapbooking high. It was camp cropping this weekend. For those that don't know it, it is an annual event put on by scrapbookers Paradise in Calgary. It is a time to catch up with old friends meet new ones, and of course, scrap book!

I hadn't been to an event with my gals in almost a year so this was much enjoyed...

Here are a few pictures of what I created, sorry about the flash, was too lazy to light things up better!

Have a great night!

with love and Laughter

Laura

a few more cards!!

2010-04-02T16:49:00.001-06:00

Just a few of the cards that I made for my Mom, for her 60th birthday.... I made 60 different cards, alot of work, hope she likes them

a challenge I did....

2010-02-21T20:00:00.001-07:00

This is a page I created for a challenge...

I thought it was super cute!

Call me crazy but....

2009-12-30T23:53:00.001-07:00

I think I have the cutest Nephew....

a quick digi page I do, we went sledding with the Niece and Nephew on boxing day, this was one of the few pictures I got before my Battery froze and gave up on me, isn't he the cutest!!!

made a few cards!

2009-11-11T22:29:00.001-07:00

So for the last few days I have been trying to organize my craft room a bit, lots of work, I have way alot of stuff, anyway, I thought i would take a break and make a few xmas cards...

All Hallows Eve!

2009-11-01T10:18:00.004-07:00

At work we had a funny hair day for Halloween, so we all either wore wigs or did our hair funny, I am the one in the black crazy hair and wings!!!

New Find

2009-11-01T10:10:00.001-07:00

Hey All,

Found this new blog that I am adding to my blog list, some creative scrapbook layouts, very cool!

Give it a look

blog

take care

Bet you've wondered...

2009-09-26T23:01:00.002-06:00

What I have been up to??

Well work, taking lots of pictures and in my free time(ha ha ah) Creating a new Fabulous blog, please check it out, YOU will find all things photography

Please have a look and tell me what you think, be honest now, I am still figuring it all out!!!

Ok, now stop reading this and go have a looky!!

smiles

Laura

How engaging....

2009-08-12T20:23:00.004-06:00

How engaging indeed!

These are a few of the engagement photos I took for an awesome couple...

My first time taking pics downtown Olympic Plaza... its fun, but alot of shadows...

thanks for trusting me with your memories!

a few more....

2009-08-06T23:00:00.007-06:00

Have spent much of my free time editing some very cute 4 generation pictures I took, and thought I would show off a few of my favs...

whatcha think?

Ok so call me crazy or is this the cutest baby you have ever ever seen!!!

and just as sweet as she is cute!

what a dolly!

hope you enjoy the pics I sure enjoyed taking them

thanks

laura

what have I been doing???

2009-08-04T00:13:00.002-06:00

Takin' Pictures!!!

Perhaps a few highlights are in order...

For those of you who don't know me personally, the last pic is on me... shooting at my dads 70th birthday celebration!!!

Ok small highlights, bed time

wow it has been awhile!

2009-06-04T21:49:00.003-06:00

look look I made some cards, haven't made a card in forever, one of my clients asked me to make her two baby cards, these are what I came up with, useing scraps by the way!!! I think they are sweet! hope everyone is well night laura

a have created!!

2009-05-11T17:35:00.002-06:00

I know it has been a long time since I created anything to post on my blog, sad really, but was getting my new craft room organized, perhaps i will show pics of it too. But for now, this is a tribute to my very favorite boy... My Daddy!! He is one of the most talented people I know, he is so smart and never stops learning and growing, a kind caring human being... I love you Daddy Forever your "Lolo"

oh the weather outside is frightfull!!

2009-04-27T19:18:00.004-06:00

ok it is the end of April and still we are covered in snow... It's odd tho, there is now green grass covered in snow! Went to a staget on the weekend, what fun!!! the first pic and the last are of the whole group and the bus, the last is of the beautiful bride to be!!! take care Laura

knock on wood!!!

2009-04-23T09:18:00.002-06:00

Hey "ALL" to say all may not need much if I don't get my butt in gear and post more often. To say the least I have had a very stressful few months... BUT i ~think~ things may be looking up, other than the total snow storm we had here yesterday, it felt like christmas!! Been going to school learning to develop my own Black and white pictures, it is a slow process for someone like me, but still fun! Hard however to show off tho, as it isn't digital. I did have a family photo shoot recently which was a high light for sure. Second time I have worked with this family, they are great!! And to add to the perk of this family, they had a brand new puppy for me to snuggle and when I showed up, I had my usual Tim Horton's coffee, and instead they handed me a lovely glass of wine!! I love my jobs!! here are a few pics from that visit!!! thanks for reading

sad... But true!

2009-04-10T10:54:00.003-06:00

amazing what a few days bring... lately things in world have been going very well, starting to get myself together.... A major set back rocked our world this week, we took our youngest Maggie(year old Maltese) in for pre-op blood work before getting fixed, and to our shock they found something. After further testing it was found that her liver isn't functioning the way it should. This could be a sign of a potentially terminal liver condition found in small dogs called a "liver shunt" a birth defect some dogs have, where the blood supply bypasses the liver, not cleaning the blood, and causing the liver to atrophy... not good!! we take her in for more testing to confirm this diagnosis on Monday, please send her your happy thoughts.... my sweet little girl.... I have no children so she truly is my baby!

click click click...

2009-04-05T20:25:00.006-06:00

took some pictures, my sweet girls, sarah and Nicole... what fun!! thanks Ladies

inspiration Sandwich!

2009-04-01T23:25:00.004-06:00

This is a title to an awesome book I once read by "sark", but today it describes how I am feeling. Not only am I loving my new job, and feel inspired by the ladies I work with every day, but started back to school today, and although I wasn't sure I was ready to go back I am glad I did, I am so excited about the next 12 weeks ahead. we are learning black and white dark room techniques using a film camera, something I haven't touched in a long time. Freaking I talked to my BF about where i was going to get one as I have been a digi girl for some time now, and he reminded me that he has a great film camera. Then I remembered about a gift my brother gave me about six months ago... a pentax film camera, from the 1960's that once belonged to my Grandpa Herald Soby, who passed away in the late eighties... My dad gave it to my Brother, thinking it may be of interest to him, however my brother knowing my love for photography, thought it better suited in my hands... Thanks Craig!! I feel this closeness to my Grandpa, holding his camera, reminds me of the importance of taking pictures...

Springing into Action..

2009-03-23T13:35:00.004-06:00

Almost!

Despite the foot and a half snow that fell, my heart and soul are feeling the signs of spring in the air, with spring comes the one and only time of year cleaning makes me smile. It seems that during the early days of spring, once the days run longer and the mornings come earlier I feel the need to clean... "Spring Cleaning" lightens my mind, and makes me and my house less cluttered, however, it is a hell of alot of work....

SO far I have concurred the kitchen, and TV room and for the last, way to many hours I have been trying to get a grasp on our bed room, wow do I have alot of stuff!!!

Went through some jeans today, have sizes 1-11... crazy how things have changed including me!

Now that my energy is finally starting to return after a long few months of stress, change and over a week long cold, I am slowly going to get control of my house and life again...

My goals!

take more pictures...

Do more scrapbooking

enjoy more friend time

hug my pets

snuggle with mark

enjoy my new job

catch up on Desperate housewives, Y and R, days, House, and all the other many shows taking over my PVR

get my fracking taxes day

take the dogs for more walks

get my BUTT to the gym

ok ladies, keep me accountable!

That is all for now!

take care

Laura

OH happy day!!!

2009-03-15T08:52:00.010-06:00

First things first.... GUESS who is getting published for the very first time???

Little old me!!!

Canadian Scrapbooker(an awesome Magazine) was on our cruise with us and chose little old me to be published in there next issue! I was thrilled!!

Here is a not so great pic of the winning LO, sorry about the pic, didn't have much time, in a dark room!

My girlfriend Jackie was just as excited as I was, since it is her cute little butt getting published!!! I would love to get published too if I had a wee butt like that!!

Can you believe that our little girl is already a year old!!! shocking~ we had a mini celebration last night, Mark even went and got a cake!!!

Isn't she the cutest!!!! She is badly in need of a hair cut, but I love it when she is scruffy like this!! Not easy to brush however

Can you believe how much she has grown in the last year!

Funny she still loves to chase/catch/attack any big toe in her path!!

Not even two pounds when we got her!!! awesome!

as per Jodi's request!

2009-03-08T16:31:00.003-06:00

“Go into your photo archive, pick the 4th folder in the archive, select the 4th picture in the folder, and write about it. Then tag 4 other people to do the same”for those of you that don't know, this is my middle child Jake, I think he gets a bit jealous of our cats, so in this picture he is cuddling up in the base of the cat post, hoping to a sneak up on the kitties, and chase them around a bit, and two, he likes to cuddle in things that enclose him and keep him warm...

I going to change the rules a bit, I am not going to name anyone, however, would love to see your pictures, so if you HAVE TIME, please, do this, it is fun, and the send me a message so I can go check it out!!!

My latest Addiction!

2009-03-08T16:03:00.004-06:00

In hopes of keeping myself warm over the last few very windy days, I have a developed a new addiction...

Twilight!! -I know I am not new, everyone is reading it, but I now know why!!

I am almost done book one, and Honey got be book Two as a belated birthday gift...

I am finding that it is just the thing I needed to keep me warm. It is amazing how it brings me back to my teenage hood, puppy love, me against the world!!

I remember clearly my first true love, this books sure brings me back...

Have any of you read it?

if so what memories did it bring back for you???

snowy days are awesome however...

2009-03-08T09:58:00.004-06:00

I miss my warm water beaches, clean white sand, hot blazing sun, mind blowing sunsets and all my new and old scrapbooking gals!!!

Now to be fair, yes that is a picture of me, taking a picture of the sunset, however, I did have a bit of help from photoshop!! the silhouette is me, but taken from another photo(on top of the Calgary tower) I took it from one photo to all tot his one, think the effect is kind of neat-o!!!

OK gotta go visit family, perhaps will write more later!!

Laura

Holy missing in action Batman!!!

2009-03-06T07:04:00.004-07:00

Me enjoying MY birthday Drink!!! as Cindy would say "the yummiest drink I ever eat!!!"

Ok, I am so sorry my awesome readers, been seriously MIA lately. Have had alot going on to say the least...

the Highlights, or perhaps "lowlights"

-got some extreme news regarding my work, I got shut down, with only two weeks to figure it out.

-"jobless" I had to find a new place to work

-My only grndparent turned 80!!

-took 600 hundred pictures of my Grandma's 80th birthday

-did a heck of alot of editing

-went on a cruise

-got to drive on the wrong side of the road in St. Tomas

-had a birthday

-went para sailing!

-my car blew up(while I was away) on my birthday

-took a ton of photos

-started a new job

-crashed mark's truck(we were sharing do to my car not running) 8foot chain link fence.. didn't make it, only minor damages to my ego!

-created a budget for the first time, then a resume... (didn't realize how broke I am!!)

-hope to pick up a very traumatized Honda civic tonight(my car, new to me engine)

These are just some highlights I am sure i have missed a ton!!!

Eyes to die for....

2009-02-07T00:00:00.005-07:00

Had a slow day today work wise, but it turned out to be a very fun day, My friend Stacey was my first of two clients, she was having a really rough day, and since I didn't have a whole lot going on, I asked her if she wanted to stay and hang out with me. We ended up getting the camera out(I know big shock with me) and taking a few fun pictures of her, it was exactly what we both needed got her mind off of what was going on with her and also got a few shots that I needed for home work for school... we also did a few fun ones... doesn't she have the most awesome big eyes!!!

options...

2009-02-03T23:45:00.002-07:00

well I have two options, I could sit here a tell all my awesome readers about my awful day, and the likelihood of it only getting worse before it gets better, but instead I am going to tell you all how lucky I am to have such an awesome support system of friends in my life....

Today was the beginning of a new (scary) chapter for me, but because of the help of family and friends I think I will get through it....

With that in mind here are a few LO's I have been working on, some for friends, some of family, all important people in my little life!!!

On the road again....

2009-01-30T14:35:00.003-07:00

ok, perhaps not the road, but the wagon for sure....

I leave for my cruise in just under three weeks and it has become all to real the fact that I don't have a single bit of summer clothing I can get my body into...

So I have been on the wagon since Monday night, and to be honest, so far so good, I have not cheated one time, I have been motivated, and excited...

Someone sent me this, thought it made sense today, forgive me!

I have been cutting out carbs, eating veggies and Meats, it is amazing how much water I was retaining... scary!

anyway, my ankles are shrinking (my meds make me retain water in my ankles, I know dead sexy!)so far and I hope it goes up from there...

have a great day

Laura

I won an award!!!

2009-01-25T22:40:00.008-07:00

Traci

from "stamping Life's prescription " send me a blogger award, how cool is that!!!

thank you thank you thank you!!!!

Now I get to send an award to a few special people who have "encouraged" me....

1) Allison

2) Bobbi-jo

3)Brit

4)Christy

5)Lindsay

ok ok.... Now for those that one, it is time to send awards of your own! To five fab blogs that make you smile!

Traci, also did this about me quiz thing, I thought maybe I would try it too!!!!

thanks again Traci!!

1. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? no

2. WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED? today... looking back at pictures of my friend

3. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? I don't mind it!

4. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT? Honey Ham

5. DO YOU HAVE KIDS? Only the furry kind. Two dogs and two cat, maybe someday!!

6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? sometimes!!

7. DO YOU USE SARCASM? A lot.

8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? not sure.. long story!

9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? Absolutely not, can't even stand getting on a ladder!

10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? hard one... have happy thoughts when I think of Fruit loops tho

11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? well I try not to, but often have too

12. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM? Chocolate!

13. WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE? Eyes/smiles

14. RED OR PINK? pink

15. WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? my misfit health!

16. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? I miss alot of people for all sorts of reasons!

17. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO COMPLETE THIS LIST? Yes, it would be fun.

18. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING? no shoes, jp bottoms

19. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? my BF snoring!

20. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? turquoise

21. FAVORITE SMELLS? my moms turkey

22. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? My mom

23. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO POSTED THIS NOTE? yes, don't know her, but love seeing her creations!

24. FAVORITE SPORTS TO WATCH? Don't watch sports.

25. HAIR COLOR? well.... that is a long story, a little short on hair these days! for now it is brown!

26. EYE COLOR? blue (ish)

27. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? No

28. FAVORITE FOOD? Ohh, very hard because I LOVE food! I would say my most favorite is my moms turkey!

29. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS? Happy endings.

30. LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED? The woman! awful to be honest!

31. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING? yellow tee

32. SUMMER OR WINTER? Neither, love spring and fall.

33. HUGS OR KISSES? Both

34. FAVORITE DESSERT? would often prefer more dinner then dessert...

35. MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND? hopefully everyone who has the time.

36. LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND? I don't know.

37. WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING NOW? alot of scrapbooking mags, as well as photography mags, some photoshop stuff... the usual!

38. WHAT IS ON YOUR MOUSE PAD? mouse pad???

39. WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON TV LAST NIGHT? Didn't watch TV last night

40. FAVORITE SOUND(S)? birds singing, let me know that spring is coming!

41. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES? Beatles

42. WHAT IS THE FARTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME? Christmas without my mom...

43. DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT? oh I have lots... I think!

44. WHERE WERE YOU BORN? Calgary Ab Canada

45. WHOSE ANSWERS ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO GETTING BACK? Everyone

I guess you are suppose to tag 25 people. I would like to "tag" everyone who has read this far. I think it would be cool to learn a little something about the people who I blog with. If you do decide to play along, please leave a comment so I can go read something about you! ( good idea Traci)

with a smile

Laura

what a day!!

2009-01-25T20:29:00.004-07:00

h Had a fabulous day, spent the morning with my Step dad and went for a wonderful breakfast...

Then my girlfriend Jackie and her two totally wonderful children came over and let me take some pics of them for a school project, so in return I took a few family photos for them...

Aren't they so sweet!

Jackie, by the way, is also the friend I am going on the cruise with...

three and a half weeks and counting!!!

hope all is well!

Laura

4 weeks yesterday!!

2009-01-23T17:30:00.006-07:00

"all my bags are packed, I'm ready to go, I'm standing here out side your door, I hate to wake you up to say good bye..... Cause I'm leaving on a jet plane don't know when I'll be back again.... Oh babe I have to go" Ok so none of this is true, have no idea what to bring or pack, but am super excited!! In four weeks I leave for my cruise... crop and cruise to be exact, 100+ scrapbookers, hanging out and having an awesome time!!! I can't wait! I hoped to loose a few pounds before the trip but that doesn't seem to be happening, so guess I will have to be happy with me and just plan for a great time!

some things I have been working on...

Hey girlies...

2009-01-22T12:40:00.003-07:00

Have had a busy few days, taking pictures, working, school ect. but love being busy... Keeps my mind off of the not so wonderful things going on in my life... (sniff sniff)

And with my earnings bought myself some treats, scrapbooking ones, big shock I know!!

so here are a few pics of my latest purchases....

LOVE IT!

Hoping to do some old fashion scrapbooking in the next few days using my new treasure!!!

hope this finds you warm(it is snowing here again) and happy!!

with smiles

Laura

wow!!!

2009-01-19T20:35:00.003-07:00

Me, on my Soap Box Preaching... so if you don't want to know, don't read it!!!

With on line friends like I have, who needs enemies... I just got this totally mean email/forum post from a blogger... If you don't like what I have to say, STOP READING!! Better yet, don't feel the need to copy and post for all your online forum readers to see!!! Are you kidding me, Pathetic!!

Back to blogging!!

these first three pics were taken at my friends Melanie's house, it was her husbands birthday, and she made him a boob cake, so funny!! She has a little five month old daughter, she sure loves her daddy!!!

I also had a ton of fun taking pics for the

One Year Anniversary party of the SCRAPYARD

a scrapbooking store I work at...

Today I received this fabulous huge bouquet of flowers from my friend Mindy, she knew I had been having some health issues, and thought it would cheer me up!! She was right, what a fabulous way to wake up!!!

I will post some pics of them, as well as a family shoot, and a Friend photoshoot I did this last week!!

ok, time to watch HOUSE, what a fab show!!

I got Bumped!!!

2009-01-19T11:31:00.002-07:00

By my blogger group... I have been a part of a blogging group for the last few months, and have done my best to "follow the rules" but it seems, I have failed, and thus, got kicked out! Sadly, they didn't even take the time to tell me why... Sort of hurts my feeling, other then the last week or so I think I am very present on here, and those of you that know me personally know that I have had alot on my plate lately.... Hence why I hadn't been on here... Anyway, on to bigger things I guess! Been taking a ton of pics lately, and will post the results here in the next day or two... wishing everyone a good day! Laura

Hey all...

2009-01-10T17:25:00.004-07:00

wanted first to say sorry for not writing a photography tip post... I will....

Been happily busy working, and trying to get a hold on house work, I play so much on the computer that my house suffers!

Had a very busy day yesterday tho, did eight clients(I have a salon in my house) each client getting at least an hour of my time...

did 7 loads of laundry, Made a nice dinner for my DH unloaded and loaded the dishwasher, took down all Xmas decorations including the tree and got it all put away!!

what a difference a few months makes... the first picture is of the snow as seen out my back window, the second is my mom and grandma this summer!!

amazing the difference a few months makes!!

more digi scrapping!

2009-01-07T21:28:00.005-07:00

this evenings creation...

The last few days have been good, and busy which is good. With this economy people are holding on tight to there spare $$'s

So a busy week makes me very happy!!

This, if you didn't know is me, with my little pup Jake, reluctantly wearing a sombrero...

isn't he cute!!

Started back at school last night, have an awesome teacher, perhaps one of the best so far...

really looking forward to learning some new things!

have a great night everyone

Laura

have a great night everyone!!

creativity continues....

2009-01-04T21:31:00.004-07:00

this is a picture of me and my friend Erin while we were away for her 30th birthday get a way weekend...

She is also the sweet Lady who had Mark and I over for Christmas dinner, She has an absolutely awesome family, and I am so lucky to call her my friend!

almost forgot...

2009-01-03T23:47:00.005-07:00

Sorry all I almost forgot to do my post today...

ok as promised...

A- is for aperture priority, which means you get to control the aperture.

Aperture is very hard to explain, and took me a while to really get...

I am going to give you the explanation in points in hopes it will be easier to understand:

-if reading your manual and it talks about F stop, that is the same as aperture

-the F stop is the number that determines how wide the shutter is open.

-Aperture/F stop is represented by a number, the smaller the number the wider the opening, the larger the number the smaller the opening.

-smaller aperture = shorter field of distance, field of distance is the amount of what is in focus in your photo.....

ok, why might you want to know this???

good question!!

Do you like those pictures where the background is blurred and the foreground isn't?

Knowing how aperture works is how that happens, OR when the foreground is blurred and the background isn't... remember this, the lower the number the more is out of focus!!!

HOWEVER... this isn't the only thing you need to know when trying to achieve that look. you have to be mindful of the distance between you and your subject(what you want in focus) as well as the distance between your subject and the background you hope to blur... you want your subject closer to you, and the background further back from your subject.

I hope that made an ounce I know it confused me at first!!

good night!!

another LO....

2009-01-03T01:04:00.003-07:00

hello my wonderful readers,

am very tried so I hope you will forgive me, I am going to do photo tips tomorrow instead, but here is my latest creations....

so cute

ok, it is late, 1am here, so time for bed!

sweet dreams

more creating!!

2009-01-01T11:00:00.002-07:00

Did this the other night, but internet wasn't working to good on my Laptop so I couldn't upload it...

These are some pics I took of my girlfriend Erin and her son Jaxon...

Anyway, some updates for you all...

I have good news and "bad" news...

The good news is our first turkey turned out totally awesome!! For those of you who don't actually know me, turkey is my very favorite food, it isn't just the turkey itself but the family and laughter that goes with it, I love it!!

SO I was a little concerned that cooking it may pose a problem, it may be just me but sometimes when I spend a day cooking something, the smell gets imbedded in my body and then I can't eat it... if that makes sense This mostly only happens when I make soups, which I really enjoy making bt end up giving away cause I can't eat it after I made it.

Well the bad news... It happened with my turkey... I made it, smelt it all day, could hardly wait to dig into in, and COULDN'T I was so sad....

even the next day I tried eating left overs, and still couldn't stomach it!

it was only the day after that I was able to enjoy a small bit!

Thankfully Mark didn't have this problem and very much enjoyed turkey dinner and the left overs to follow as did the rest of my family that came to dinner at the house.

Oh one other odd thing, somehow, I made KFC gravy, you wouldn't be able to take the difference, it tasted exactly like KFC gravy... very weird!!!!!

Wishing all a Happy New Year, and thank you so much for all the well wishes sent to me on the comments!!

ALso for those of you that finally took a look at your camera manual, well done!!!!!!

take care

Laura

creativity!

2008-12-28T13:38:00.002-07:00

Hey all,

been playing... here is the results...

a wee digi LO for your viewing pleasure!

Having a sort of busy, yet lazy day!

Invited the family over for dinner, but sadly most had plans, anyway, am cooking a turkey for the first time, well by BF and I are anyway, neither of us have done it before...

Have warned all guests that if it doesn't turn out we may have to order a pizza!

Wanted to cook it on Boxing day, however I wasn't feeling so hot, so it was way more work than I had in mind that day!

Ok enough babbling, hope you like my LO and keep taking pictures!!

friday photo tips!!

2008-12-26T16:05:00.004-07:00

In taking a good picture, how much depends on the quality of the camera and the options it has? I've been wondering lately if my camera is limiting my photography or if I just don't know enough about how to use it!

this was a question left for me on my comments, thank you for asking....

Great question!!!!

The answer as far as I can tell is both...

I know not very helpful! You can take a great picture using a disposable camera, or a not so great picture using a fabulous camera, know how your camera works and what its limitations are.

Keep in mind that all point and shoot cameras have other settings other than "auto" try them out!

Not just the picture ones but the letter ones too. Most point and shoot camera have at least two if not three "letter" settings, I will explain the `S`setting first, next week we will move on to the other ones!!!

S- Shutter priority, this means that you pick the shutter speed and your camera pics the rest. The shutter speed is the length of time your pic is exposed to light. it is represented by a percentage of a second(confusing I know) so if your shutter speed says 60 it is really one sixtyeth of a second, the lower the number the longer your shutter is open. If shutter speed is to low you end up with over exposed (to bright ) pictures. If the shutter is too high you end up with under exposed(too dark) photos! a smaller shutter speed will help you get those cool action pics, where you see a bit a blur to show action, water running in a water fall stuff like that. A fast shutter speed is great for kids who never sit still. keep in mind that as a rule the human hand can only hold a camera still enough to go as low as 60 any lower and you are likely to get camera shake!!

what do the other ones stand for that you may have on your camera...

A- Aperture priority,

M- Manual

P- Program

TGIF! photo tips!!!

2008-12-19T16:39:00.004-07:00

Sad Sad Sad.... Not a single person "put there hat in the ring" and sent me a picture, how sad is that!! Clearly you guys aren't getting your cameras out enough, or maybe no one is even reading these, i guess that too could be an option... Question for you all: What do you want to know about taking a better picture or editing an almost perfect photo??? Todays tip is on processing your pictures: DON'T BE AFRAID TO CROP OUT THE UNWANTED ELEMENTS OF YOUR PICTURES TO MAKE IT A CLEARER SHOT OF THE SUBJECT MATTER!! How ever as a rule, centering your subject isn't the best way to compose your photo... Keep in mind the rule of thirds!!! (definition taken from wikipedia) The rule of thirds is a compositional rule of thumb in visual arts such as painting, photography and design.[1] The rule states that an image should be imagined as divided into nine equal parts by two equally-spaced horizontal lines and two equally-spaced vertical lines, and that important compositional elements should be placed along these lines or their intersections.[2] Proponents of this technique claim that aligning an image with these points creates more tension, energy and interest in the photo than simply centering the feature would. The photograph to the right demonstrates the application of the rule of thirds. The horizon sits at the horizontal line dividing the lower third of the photo from the upper two-thirds. The tree sits at the intersection of two lines, sometimes called a power point. Points of interest in the photo don't have to actually touch one of these lines to take advantage of the rule of thirds. For example, the brightest part of the sky near the horizon where the sun recently set does not fall directly on one of the lines, but does fall near the intersection of two of the lines, close enough to take advantage of the rule. The rule of thirds can be applied by lining up subjects with the guiding lines, placing the horizon on the top or bottom line instead of the center, or allowing linear features in the photograph to flow from section to section. In addition, many photographers recommend treating any "rule" of composition as more of a guideline, since pleasing photographs can often be made while ignoring one or more such rules..... the rule of thirds is still something I myself have to work on... I like things centered!! That is all from me for now, however remember this holiday season to pay it forward, do something nice just cause, smile and remember how lucky you really are!! BTW Life is short....TAKE MORE PICTURES!!!

Been a busy little bee!!!

2008-12-18T00:17:00.006-07:00

Been busy with some very cute pics I took of a girlfriend of mine and her so sweet little daughter "J"....

They both did great, and I think had a good time, now I just need to get the final touch up done, before sending them off to get printed!!!

two weeks in a row... bad blgger!!!

2008-12-14T19:19:00.004-07:00

Dear wonderful readers!!

I am a bad blogger two weeks in a row I have not done my photo tips on time, how bad is that!!!

As I am sure you can all imagine it is a busy busy time of year, anyway, on with the show!

Ok, today my roommate Andrea asked me for some help working on an xmas present for her family, she wanted to make a scrapbook thing to show off her life here since she moved to Calgary. When she went on line to upload her pics it wouldn't work, well it would work but she had these "!" beside each pic as she uploaded them... with a note that told her that the pics would be tooo small(or something like that) Anyway, thats when I got called in, she was upset and just couldn't figure it out, between the two of us we realized with sadness what the problem was, and hence my tip!!!

UNLESS YOU ONLY PLAN ON UPLOADING YOUR PICS TO THE INTERNET, ALWAYS HAVE YOUR CAMERA SET AT THE HIGHEST RESOLUTION/MEGABITES....

because her camera was set at the lowest resolution/quality/megapixel setting her photos weren't even big enough to print 4x6, alot of people buy these great cameras but don't know how to use them, and by accident end up having there cameras on settings that won't ever produce the main thing they want "pictures, and Memories"

ALSO... don't fall over here, but......

MEGA PIXELS AREN'T EVERYTHING!!!!

you only need a 2 mega pixel camera to print a perfect 4x6 pic

and not much more to print a 5x7....

SO don't be fooled by cameras that brag about having a ton of mega pixels, unless you are wanting to print pictures that will cover a large wall, or billboard you really don't need all those pixels!!!

ok, now you know, always set camera on a higher picture quality, and meda pixels are not everything!!!

BUT wait, we had a contest running!! Can you beleive on even one of you sent me a picture??

that makes me sad, perhaps we could try one more time????

LADIES, want to win something free??

then show me you have learnt something!!! Go out and take some pics, send me them via email soulphotography@hotmail.com

and tell me what tip you used, I will draw a name and you could be a winner!!!!

ok last.....

here is a little joke to remind

you of the holiday season!!!

tee hee

2008-12-10T23:44:00.001-07:00

was reading my friend Christy's blog and she had her recipe on it, so I decided I needed on too!!

SO fun, and oddly true for those that know me!!!

The Recipe For Laura

3 parts Moxie 2 parts Originality 1 part Charisma Splash of Seductiveness Finish off with a little umbrella and straw

What's the Recipe for Your Personality?

winter wonder land!

2008-12-10T00:23:00.005-07:00

hey All I thought I would post a few pics I took yesterday... a winter wonderland, it is so beautiful....

well unless you have to drive in it, not as fun... Snow=Christmas to me...

finally I am am starting to feel a little bit like Christmas...

This will be the first year not spending christmas with my mom, she chose to go out of town for the holiday season and not be here with her family, two grandkids and two kids...

I don't get it :(

finally feeling a bit like Christmas...

I think

xmas card!

2008-12-07T17:54:00.002-07:00

hanging out with my honey all day, what a treat, life gets so busy it is nice to be able to spend a day just relaxing with no pressure to do anything, now don't get me wrong I have a ton to do, however, I am 'allowing' myself this day with my love....

Monday we are back to work and the real world, this time tomorrow Mark will be starting a new p/t job at a friends restraunt... I am sure it will be very hard for him at first so I think it is good that we get to relax together before that happens!!!

Anyway, while we relax I thought I would create a digi xmas card to send to the family... (the one with us in it) as well as one I will send to the vet(who have been awesome to our pets!!) what do you think???

mirror mirror on the wall tgif... tip of the week!!

2008-12-07T13:34:00.003-07:00

Hey Ladies,

as promised, "fridays" photography tip of the day... a few days late...

As mentioned last night, had a great time at my xmas party, got to meet some of Marks buddies, which was awesome and didn't even crack the big vodka... Not sure why but feel I want to save it, is that odd???

Ok, enough babble, instead of a photo tip I thought we would do a photo idea...

Have you ever tried taking a picture through a mirror?

If not you should, it gives a whole new take on everyday pictures. In the first picture Mark, me and the pups went on an off roading adventure, I took a pic as you can tell in the mirror of marks BIG truck....

The second one is of the bride of a wedding I did a few months ago, I like how she is blurry but her back and hair isn't... a neat effect!!!

Hey Ladies.....

A challenge for you!!!

I have been doing these tips for over a month now, have you learned anything??

well PROVE IT!!!

take a pic using one of the tips I have showed you, send me a comment with a link to your picture, and next friday I will do a draw, the winner will get a treat from me!!!!

Oh dear....

2008-12-07T00:34:00.005-07:00

Hello my sweet friends,

SO sorry for the delay on friday photo tips... been super busy the last few days and just haven't had the chance, I am so hoping you all forgive me!! Bad LOLO(Lolo is what my paternal side calls me)

Had a lovely party tonight however, lost of friends, silliness and you guessed it vodka, however, I did manage to NOT break into my big huge kirkland... It is a legend around here, think I may keep it unopened for a while!!

Ok, I am too busy to keep typing, I will do my very best to get on here tomorrow and give you a new fab tip for you to try... and perhaps even two since I am late!!!

sleep well my cyber friends I know I will.

Laura

Ps this is a pic of two of my favorite people, my nephew and my grandma!!! LOVE YOU GUYS

Oh, what a gift!!

2008-12-02T14:10:00.004-07:00

My girlfriend Valena came to get her nails done today

(for those of you who don't know, that is what i do to pay the bills around here, I have a salon in my house)

When I walked into my salon I was shocked by a rather LARGE Xmas gift she had brought for me.

She had told me about the fact that "kirkland" aka Costco was now selling Vodka, she had found out that one of the top vodka producers had created it and it was significantly cheaper than its top brand brother, I tried to find it, but thinking for some reason she was talking about Superstore I was never able to find it... then today....

it arrived!

the biggest bottle of vodka I have seen in a long time, 1.75L of kirkland vodka...

I was thrilled, not because I intend on drinking it all

(no i am not a lush!!!) but because I am having an xmas party this weekend... and haven't bought the booze for it yet!! Valena always knows what a girl needs...

Thank you Beena, oh and thank you for posing with it for me as well... You are looking hot hot hot!! Hope to see you for a cocktail this weekend, do you like Vodka?? I seem to have an abundance!!!

looking for a blue speedo!!

2008-11-28T15:15:00.006-07:00

I really did try to find a pic with a blue speedo in it, however, thankfully not that easy to find!!!

So in loo of that I thought it only made sense to use Allison to teach Allisons lesson!!

Now the people in the background of this first photo aren't wearing blue speedos but certainly could have been as we were on a cruise ship

(crop and cruise)

Also put on by Allison Orthner the goddess of most things creative!! (wow I should get paid for all this advertising!! tee hee)

Ok enough shameless plugs for allison!!

The people in the background are not in blue speedos but they also weren't invited to be in this picture so in this case they are the "blue speedos"

Does that make sense???

Ok hopefully my explainatoin made some sense, and will make Allison proud(see I was listening)

well that is all for now... if I find more pics I am sure to keep up loading, need to make up for my absense this week!

Smiles

Laura

It's friday ladies...

2008-11-28T14:34:00.008-07:00

First I wanted to point out that I learned how to add music to my blog today, go me!!!

Ok, Friday photography tip of the day time!!

When taking pictures don't forget the curtains, Curtains you ask??

YES, just like we put curtains on our windows to center a window, and draw your eye in, photography can be the very same way!!

When looking into or on your view finder be mindful of what is framing your picture. In a perfect world it is always nice to have your picture framed, so it draws your eyes into the subject...

weither it be trees, with branches that gentlly fall to the side, or literal frames, like door ways and things like that. When trying to add framing to your pics be mindful of two things, that you get the whole "frame" into the pic and as 'Allison Orthner' would say

"watch out for blue speedos!"

What is a blue speedo you ask??? Well that is best answered by her, however the short version would be...

A blue speedo is anything in the background or foreground of your photo that you don't want in it or just wasn't invited!! Like the man walking along the beach in his blue speedo while you are trying to take a great sunset photo!!

Notice how I have "framed" these two pics...

oh, bad blogger!!!

2008-11-28T00:40:00.003-07:00

Hello my sweet lovely readers,

so sorry for my MIA status, not sure what my excuse is other than a lack of things to post!

I have a date night with my bf tomorrow and am totally looking forward to it, we sort of met, and that was that, we never really dated, he moved in almost right away, and we sort of just fit. ANyway, he went and booked time off for me, and informed me we are going on a date, how romantic, I asked him if he was going to pick me up/drop me off, kiss me goodnight and open all doors for me, and he giggled and said... "ya ok!!"

then I have a very easy weekend, no side jobs, no stress, may even get my house cleaned, ok who am I kicking there is far to much crafting to me done for that!!!

Ok HELP...

need some gift ideas for a distant friend of mine who has been so supportive in my photography, helping me with words of advice when ever asked and supporting me all the way.

the problem is she lives out of town so it is something I would be snail mailing to her....

any thoughts???

she is a scrapbooker as well...

a wife

a mom

and an awesome Photographer, she is the person who inspired me to get into this craft!!

and the crazy thing is we have only ever met once... would you do all that for someone you didn't know, not many would, but she did!!!

what do you give someone like that, some one who gives so selflessly???

well if she lived closer she would get a HUG for sure...

and more thank you' than I can hold!!

ideas???

please??

Laura

for those keeping track...

2008-11-22T10:09:00.004-07:00

I thought I would send a quick update for those keeping track of my weight loss highs and lows...

I have been doing my best to eat ask many fruits and veggies as possible, however, since learning about the great "timmy" disappontment I have had two tim Hortons coffees... I know, bad Laura!!

I seem to do great in the day, then at night after Mark goes to bed, it all goes downhill... Fast!!

I think I have now eaten all of the crap food out of my kitchen so I hope this week will go smoother!

I haven't weighted myself yet tho, why.... well I think if I weigh my self and I have lost weight I will think I can cheat and if I weigh myself and I haven't lost any, then I will be disappointed and binge... does this make sense???

ANYway, I may "weigh In" tomorrow as that will be my two week mark since starting this dreading idea of dieting!!!

Now on a positive note I did walk on the tredmill three times this week, and took the pups for a few mini walks as well... well to be honest Maggie takes me for a walk by escaping, and making me chase her around the block, cute puppy, good think or I could kill her sometimes!!! but how could you be mad at that face!!!

what a cookie!!!

TGIF time for some tips!!

2008-11-21T22:12:00.007-07:00

Hello my Sweet "friends"Here is your fridays photography tip of the day....

This is a simple one, but something we forget to do....

When taking pictures of small things, kids, pets ect... get down to there level and see life through their eyes...

We know what life looks like from were we see it, so why not go on your knees or even lie down and see how they see it... (remember tip number one and get close to your subject!)

This will add all sorts of new interest to subjects we take pictures of everyday...

here is an example of this....

first pic is from my from an adults view....

The next one is from "Maggie's" eyes so we see into them and look at her from her height...

hope this helps!!!

See, I didn't forget!!

2008-11-18T18:01:00.003-07:00

Hello My dear sweet awesome readers,

as promised here are some pics of my LO's I did Saturday at the Jingle Bell Crop!!!

Would love to stay and chat, but allowed myself a Tim Hortons coffee today, only if I get my Butt on the tredmill, so here I go, begrudgingly....

will post again perhaps before bed!!!

Hope everyone had a great Tuesday....

What a night!!!!!!!!l

2008-11-18T00:07:00.003-07:00

Had an awesome night at school, learned some new tricks, how to "paint with Light" so cool!!

here are a few pics... just so you know we only had two models....

One girl and one guy!!!

FUNKY

JIngle all the way!!!!!!

2008-11-16T11:01:00.016-07:00

Here a just a few pics from the awesome event I went to yesterday put on my Monday Night Class These girls, there husbands and families worked there BUTTS off to make it a fabulous success!!!

There were three stores you could shop at, "Monday Night Class", "Paper pasttimes" and "Scrapbook Pantry", classes to take, make and takes, and all sorts of products

demos... It was fun!

We got all our meals for the day, TONS of free giveaways, tons of room to scrapbook, even homemade Carrot cake... they were even kind enough to realize food allergies and restrictions. Pour Carol of paper pasttimes, broke her arm and still managed to show up and keep us all in line!! she is so funny!!

For those of you who have not heard of MNC, they have an awesome business for scrapbookers of all levels... Classes in a bag, you take home, and create, learn new things, all in the comport of your own home. Cindy also happens to be the face behind, the Bloomin Inn's awesome Alberta scrapbooking retreats!!! I highly recommend you check all of these great companies out....

Ok will post pics of my "creations"

when I get home from shopping... arg!!!s

I failed... but enjoyed it!

2008-11-14T22:44:00.005-07:00

I failed... had a great day, walk on the tredmill (go me) followed my points like a good little girl, and even ate a bowl full of veggies, and all the fun that goes along with that...

then My dear sweet BF Mark says, why don't we have Anniversary Pizza...

Well.... I really am trying to be good!! I say, but then give in, If I order it will you eat it?? he asks???

YA.... I loves the pizza...

failed the ww today, but tomorrow should be a better day!

However should also be filled with creativity, going on a scrapbooking thing but on by "monday night class" check these girls out(find link on my site) they are awesome!!!!

Ok gotta be up early, Painter is coming.... tee hee hee can't wait!!!

smiles to all

Laura

TGIF tip day!!!

2008-11-14T09:06:00.013-07:00

Hello ladies, thanks for stopping by... first a few people have asked how I did the picture of my brother... PHOTOSHOP!!! one of my favorite words in the English language!! I am a photoshop junkie, I am not the best at it for sure, but love playing!!! Also, if there is a tip you are wanting to know more about, either photography or photoshop post a comment and I will do what I can to answer it for you(I don't know all the answers that's for sure but I can always find them out!!) Ok todays tip.... Now that you have gotten a bit closer to your 'subject' Its time to consider picture orientation... Landscape? Or Portrait? This may seem like an obvious one but alot of people forget to turn there camera... when you take pics of people it is best to have your camera vertical... why?? well for one it helps you get the whole subject in, as well as having the closest distance between the subject and your camera. Also, it makes your subject look skinnier!!!! And who wouldn't want that.... another way to keep everyone looking there best is to make sure that the people you are photographing are not standing straight on to the camera, if they stand at an angle, the will look taller, and slimmer... and as I am about to take a pic of any woman I always say "Boobs out tummy in" Not only does it make you look slimmer but generally will make people laugh or at least smile, a much more 'real' smile then if I just "say cheese" Now taking Horizon or landscape pics... keep your camera horizontal. be mindful of a straight horizon line(don't want drunk photos) as well for interest, try not to center your horizon... choose what you want the pic of, and focus on that... landscape important(nice fall day, lovely colors) then why have half of a dull sky... OR if you have a beautiful sun set/rise why get the dark dead grass or trees in the photo!!

Ok the rule breaker(there is always one) if you want to take a person with a background of say... disney land castle, how do you hold your camera?? Either way will work, however the thing to be mindful of is to keep your human close to you, then have as much distance between them and the 'castle' as you can... so you get lots of detail of the person, and there reaction to where ever they are. As well as the whole story behind them. not just the door of the castle but the whole castle.....

In the first photo we know there is a little person on a bike... however, we really can't see who it is, or weither or not they are having a good time....

now if I turn my camera I get closer up, and can see the details of this totally adorable little lady... and her excitement with her new bike!!

Ok, on this pic you really can't tell what i am taking the pic of... sort of boring, no clear idea of what is important or the beauty and length of the horizon line....

In this pic it is clear that what I am trying to capture....beautiful endless horizon, as the sunsets, leaving LA...

Ok ladies that is all I have for you today, hope it help!!!

Happy shooting!!!

Laura

OH... Timmy!!!

2008-11-14T00:17:00.006-07:00

well it has been two days, I long for your creamy taste, with a hint of sweet joy on my lips....

Sniff sniff sniff...

Until we meet again, I rest here and dream....

Today, I was good all day, didn't eat anything I shouldn't of...

being good is no fun!!!!

OK... enough silliness, on a happy Note Mark and I are celebrating our one year tomorrow, a year and we haven't killed each other yet, I think that is quite an accomplishment... (hey I spelt it right, there is another one!)

Sadly I am working all night, so we won't get to celebrate... perhaps maybe sunday... Busy weekend ahead!!!

Oh and one last little bitty of news, I am so excited I am getting my work room painted on saturday... California Lilac, sort of a periwinkle color... will post pics once it is done!! CAN'T WAIT!!!!

ok, until tomorrow... Goodnight!!

"TUNE in" for my Friday photography tip of the week!!

been playing...

2008-11-13T00:04:00.003-07:00

Well managed to avoid the timmies today, but was attacked, yes attacked, by the halloween candy... ten mini chocolate bars later... ten for ten points tho, really is a great deal!!! tee hee

Ok so I think we will start tomorrow... did great till I got home and saw the box O chocolate.

Will kick some CALORIES tomorrow!!!

Until then, here is a little something I created while resting....

This is a pic of my Brother...

night for now

Laura

Mystery revealed!!!

2008-11-11T23:45:00.005-07:00

wow!!

On a personal note....

I did something very silly yesterday and stepped on the scale, to my extreme horror, I hit a new HIGH.... the top of all the tops!!!(for me) I won't get into the details of that but thought today would be a good day to start making sm

arter choices, shall I say....

Anyway, I had always had really good luck in the past with WW so I thought I would try and keep an eye on my points and see how it goes. Was doing well until one of my clients brought me my fav, a tim hortons coffee, extra large double double... and it was so good. So that got me thinking, I wonder how many ww points a coffee like this would be, to my complete horror, I just looked it up....

For those of you who don't know about WW, you are allow a certain number of points depending on your age, sex, height, activity level... ect. and each food has a point value, count your points loose the weight...

I am allowed 18points for my day (I am short, sit all day and am a girl with very little activity, the

worst combination...)

Ok back to the coffee.... are you ready???

7 points for my coffee

Oh but wait it gets worse, when I am extra lucky I get one of those totally awesome breakfast sandwiches(cheese, egg, sausage, Oh and I put ketchup on it)

Those little bites of yumminess

13 points....

~~~~~

~~~~~~

total 20points for my breakfast favorite!!

this is something I would say I have more than weekly and at times, more than daily, at least for the coffee....

Gee... wonder why I have put on 20+ pounds, could anyone help me solve this mystery!!

ARG!! I hang my head down in shame!!

guess I need to really think weather that yummy hot, sweet, creamy coffee is werth... OH say 8hours on a tredmill...

a sad day for coffee drinkers everywhere!!!

ok, final cards for the evening!!!

2008-11-09T20:32:00.003-07:00

Heading off to go have a bath, and spend some time with my Sick BF pour guy has been sick forover a week...

and here I am creating all night... Bad GF!!!

Oh well, had a great day, My roomie even came up to play with me for a while, and she brought wine!! Go roomie!!!

Night for now

with a smile

Laura

SCS challenge #1

2008-11-09T12:56:00.002-07:00

Here is my attempt at the splitcoast stampers blog group challange # 1.

The challenge was to make something using black and blue.....

So far, so good!!!

2008-11-09T12:17:00.004-07:00

Well, so far so good, six cards made... and it is only noon....

all of these cards are colored in with Tombo markers and blended with water, on water color paper... a technique I have grown to really enjoy doing, once you get the hang of it, it is alot of fun!! I also used stickles to highlight here and there... love christmas cards, but the butterflies are so colorful!!!!!!

My latest creation...

2008-11-09T08:16:00.003-07:00

Hey Ladies, taking a day off of "real" life to create, the joys of not having kids, I can do that without children yelling or needing me, thank goodness for the little things!

Anywho, I will most likely do a few posts today.

We have been fighting off all sorts of bugs in this house, NOT FUN! so I haven't done a whole lot of creating, however, finally had my camera and my LO in the same place that I can show off my latest creation...

It is the first page I have done of my new nephew!!

We all like tips!!! don't we???

2008-11-07T09:43:00.007-07:00

Hi my fabulous followers!!!!

well been super busy as always(wouldn't have it any other way!) so I haven't been able to do an entry in a few days, Bad Lolo(what my family calls me).

Anywho, was looking at all the awesome comments that i have recieved, and noticed alot of very thoughtful comments on my photography... THANK YOU!!!

Since I am going to school to be the best photographer I can be, why not share my knowledge with you guys so you too can wow your friends and family with your pictures....

Anyway, I am thinking once a week I will give a "tip of the week" cause we all like tips don't we???

So with that in mind....

My first tip...

(don't eat yellow snow... tee hee hee, a big deal in the house with two dogs!)

No really now...

GET CLOSER!!!!! this tip is true no matter what you are taking pictures of. People want to see, the expressions on faces, and the energy of the photo.. less back ground, more details on what is really happening, captureing how that moment made you feel!!!

So lets look at an example of this....

This is a picture of my friend Jackie and I as we are boarding the cruise ship....

Please notice all the useless space on the right hand side, is it adding to the story of the photo?

can you see our expressions? NO really...

Why not move closer...

In this picture you can still see the ship, as it is part of the story, however, you can also see our smiley faces, and the friendship between two people, a much mor eye catching picture if you as me!!!

It sounds simple but people often forget to get closer to there subject....

However, with every rule there are times to break it...

If you see a bear and want a photo... CLOSER is not a good idea....

Happy shooting!!!!

some pictures.....

2008-11-03T23:22:00.003-07:00

I tired to scan my latest LO for you all to see, introducing my nephew, however, was having some scanning issues(user error mostly) so instead I thought I would post a few pics of me and some of my friends on the bus, at the "crop and crawl" put on by Allison Orthner... We had an awesome time, sixty girls, 6 scrapbook stores, awesome food, then a night of make and takes and fun... It was so nice to spend some time with Christy(visit her blog, love her to death) as we haven't been able to hang out in forever, she is the lovely lady I am sitting on in two of the pics... She has an awesome website www.mondaynightclass.ca where they do tons of fabulous monthly kits, very fresh fun ideas... It is a scrapbook class in a bag, so you learn tons and still get to stay at home scrapbook in your Jammies, and end with a fab LO you would be thrilled to show off!!!! I also got to see Jackie, her and I have been friends for over three years and she is one of the most supportive, amazing friends a girl can have, I just love her to death, and feel so blessed to have such a great friend in my life. Last is Sarah, she was so excited to go to the crop and crawl she didn't think to check if her girlfriends could go with her, and sadly when she finally was able to invite them they were all busy. We started chatting right away, and the more the four of us chatted the more we liked her... What a great day with new and old friends!!!

Sad... But true!

2008-10-31T23:04:00.006-06:00

Sadly I have no new creations to show off for you all today, SOrry! However I do plan on making it up to you all this weekend... Tomorrow bright and early I am going on a "crop and Crawl" put on by the wonderful and talented Allison Orthner!!! So is a fabulous photographer, scrapbooker and really human being, LOVE HER!!! Anyway, we are all meeting up, getting on buses and touring all the scrapbooking stores in Calgary, then we stop for a bite to eat, and off to scrapbook the night away!! Sound like fun??? I think so!!

Anyway, I should (hopefullY) get a bit a scrapbooking done, so you can all see my latest creations then.

Also on a more personal note, today was a very big anniversary of sorts for me...

Two years ago today, I finally was excepting of a condition I had(have) called Alopecia. An autoimmune condition, were for no reason your hair falls out...For two years I lived with out a single hair on my WHOLE(yes whole) body... Two years ago today, I dressed up as "Uncle Fester" from the adams family... For those of you not aware of his character, he is a stocky bald very pale, dark eyed dude... and answer the door to hand out candy like that!! A very big step for me... Now two years later my hair is BACK... and to celebrate I went for my very first full blown hair cut, color, and highlight.... I was nervous to be honest!! Anyway, Lisa at In Style, did a FABULOUS job and made this day extra special... thank you Lisa!!!

Here's hoping it will be one of Many fabulous Hairstyles....

I will post a few pics tomorrow, once I find someone to take them!!

i've been creating!!!

2008-10-30T23:18:00.005-06:00

Hey all my wonderful followers,

wanted to say a quick thank you to everyone who has taken time out of there busy lives to read and comment on my blog... It makes my day!

I created these while relaxing in bed the last few nights...

they are both digital pages, of my puppies Maggie and Jake and there very proud father, my honey Mark...

Hope this finds everyone well, I had a busy but great day today. I am lucky enough to still have both a mom and a grandma still alive, so the three generations went to A&W for lunch, not fancy by any means, but a very rare event... I am blessed!!!

a few more cards!!

2008-10-28T20:11:00.004-06:00

Here are my latest creations... the embossing is done by using tin foil in your cuttlebug, I loved the look!!!

The xmas ball card was a designed by my friend Shari, i loved it!! I added a little Laura touch, but she can up with the ideas!!

Baptism....

2008-10-27T01:22:00.005-06:00

today was a beautiful day...

sun shinning bright, and all is well. the Baptism went very well, thank you to everyone who sent me well wishes!! Here are a few pics of this blessed event!! Afterward I went over to my friends and made some more cards, I plan on scanning them tomorrow so I can post them for your viewing pleasure.

all in all a wonderful weekend!!!

hello my faithful readers...

2008-10-26T00:42:00.004-06:00

Up way to late almost 1am calgary time. Had a busy day worked from 10am to 12am... wow 14hours, clearly I must like what I do. Tomorrow I get to put on my photographers hat, and shoot a baptism, honestly I am really nervous, it will be my first baptism and I am not sure what the rules are for taking pictures in a church, what you are and aren't allowed to do....

However, after that I am going over to my friend Shari's to scrapbook, so that will be a nice calm after my stressful morning!! I will post pics of both the baptism and my creations when I get home!! for now I will look for a few pics to dazzle my sweet, thoughtful readers!!!!

The first picture is of my BF Mark and our two Puppies Jake and Maggie out in Radium BC the second is just of him and his handsome face, He is just finished his third year electrical schooling and did so awesome I am totally proud of him, we had a group of friends over to celebrate last night, tons of fun!!

the last pic is of my fathers view at his home in Radium, must be rough... please note that I have played with it a bit, using photoshop, not the best pic, but fun to mess with colors and such!!!

so... what do you think?

2008-10-21T08:48:00.002-06:00

Hey Ladies,

as some may have noticed I have been "trying on" different Headers for my blog! Made this Fall one this morning, think it may be the winner, what do you think? What I was thinking of doing is doing one for each season here in Calgary... We don't have typical seasons here, the weather is a bit odd to say the least... but getting some neat pics to capture the seasonal changes we do have may be nice...

The saying here is "if you don't like the weather wait ten minutes" and this is so true!!!

Calgary weather can change 10-15 degrees in a heart beat... we also get things called

"chinooks" Not only is it a great mall here, but also a weather phenomenon where a warm wind blows in over the mountains and we can go from freezing winter temps to suntanning weather in just a few hours, what a nice way to have a break from the cold weather that we are known for!!!!

Hope to make some more Xmas cards today, if I get some done I will post them tonight, however have a crazy work day ahead of me!!!

Have a great day!

had some free time!!

2008-10-20T23:13:00.004-06:00

Hey all.

thanks to everyone who has been taking time out of there busy day to read/ look at my blog!

Had some free time today so was able to work on a few cards, here are a few for your viewing pleasure!!

hope you like them!

will wrote more in a wee while!!

take care

a lovely weekend!!

2008-10-20T00:01:00.004-06:00

Hello Readers,

Had a busy but good weekend, was thrilled however to spend all last night working on more cards, made some really cute ones that I hold to have a chance to scan so I can show off all my latest creations, Have even been lucky enough to see a few of my cards, How flattering!

I am posting this pic as a special hug and thank goodness, this little dude made it safe and sound out of the hospital today, he went in for an operation a few days ago, to have a clef pallet repaired, and did great!!

hugs and love to you and your Mommy!!!

way to be a strong little dude and an even stronger MOMMY!

love you both

Hope this finds everyone well, will post some more pics tomorrow!

Laura

Some cards I have been making....

2008-10-18T11:41:00.004-06:00

Hey all, sorry about the head turning with these cards, but scanning them four at a time seemed the best way to make then all on one posting... Most of these cards are done useing "peel Off" outline stickers from "paperpast times" in Calgary Alberta Canada a very cute little store in the SW. anyway, you peel them off and put them on water color paper, then color them in lightest to darkest with "tombo" marker, then blend the colors together with a watercolor brush and a light amount of water... cut them out and make card as usual!!! These "peel Off" stickers are very hard to find, and I have only ever seem them at Paper past times... a little pricey for sure, but what a great effect!! ok, I am off to Paperpast times to get some more supplies and work on some more cards! take care

My Neffu(Nephew)... Veggo

2008-10-17T23:59:00.004-06:00

wanted to introduce you all to my Nephew,

Reverend Veggo Jorge Caesar Soby... quite the handle, for such a little dude! But with his jeans I am sure he will grow into in fine. The call him Veggo, But in my world I call him "Neffu"

Born Oct 15th 2008

Love you all ready little dude!

my latest creation!!

2008-10-07T17:30:00.002-06:00

this is a LO I did of my friend lindsays son Jackson.... we went walking at fish creek park by my house.... how cute watching him stomp through the leaves.....

what fun we will have!!!!!!

2008-10-07T17:16:00.006-06:00

Finally it has arrived!!!

I am so excited, I have signed up with Silpada an awesome sterling silver jewellery company, and my awesome kit just arrived!!!

Feel free to contact me or look on my silpada web site for more info!!!!!

www.mysilpada.ca/laura.soby

A special thank you!!!!!

2008-10-02T09:21:00.005-06:00

Hey to all my loyal readers... are there any out there????

wanted to send out a quick thank you to my client and friend Teryl how created my invoices and business cards for "Soul Photography" they LOOK FABuLOUS!!!!!

I couldn't be happier!

Her and her hubby started there own printing company a few years ago and haven't looked back since, what a great job she does!!!!

here is a copy of her business card just incase you are in need of some printing:

Well that is all for now, hope to post more tonight perhaps!

Going on a fun girly weekend, so should have a few black mail photos to display when I get home!!!

take care

Laura

Oh.... I created something!!

2008-10-01T23:51:00.006-06:00

this is a LO I created the other day while waiting for my class to start, I was near school so I thought I would just hang out and play on the computer until class started!

What do you think of my creation!

Falling...

2008-10-01T23:32:00.002-06:00

It isn't often that we are blessed with a lovely fall season...

However this year has been totally beautiful so with that in mind I got out and took some pics... The pups and I met Lindsay and her totally awesome little dude Jackson for a walk around fish creek park!!!

what a treat!

here are a few pics of our adventure!

B~I~N~G~O

2008-09-26T23:07:00.003-06:00

Ok I know, not a huge deal, but so excited!

I went to bingo with my Grandma and Mark tonight and I won, $10.00!!! I was so excited, I even saved the card, I hope to scrapbook it. It is the first time I have ever won in bingo, I was thrilled. A few times I almost won again, one number away, then nothing!!

Oh well!!

10.00 is $10.00!!

so happy!

Have a great weekend everyone... Oh by the way, does anyone know where I can get an Owl brush for CS3??? Need to make a logo for a friend, she likes owls, however they aren't as easy to find as one would think!

I'll keep hunting

night

Laura

two in one night....

2008-09-22T23:06:00.005-06:00

I got this great digi scrapbooking kit that I finally had some free time to play with last night, so I created this of my three and a half year old niece, I played with the color of the pic first, making her eyes are hair more vibrant, adding a blue/pink hue, not sure if it is seen in this pic, but it looks really cool in print. she is such a sweet little girl one of my very fav things to digi scrapbook...

Soon Ladies and Gents(ha ha ha) I will have a new niece or nephew, to scrapbook, only a few more weeks, I just can't wait!!!

night night for now!

Laura

Shayla and Garett....

2008-09-22T22:31:00.002-06:00

I was lucky enough to go to a totally wonderful wedding at the Calgary Zoo this past weekend, and made this creation... what do you think?

odd!

2008-09-19T23:28:00.002-06:00

wrote this load post, then when I went to publish it is disappeared! Odd...

Here we go again, the pics in the last post are a few from the wedding the wedding I was lucky enough to photograph! the last one is a pic I made for them as a thank you gift for trusting me with there memories!!

what do you think??

Ok, night for now

Laura

Wishing them the best!

2008-09-19T23:02:00.007-06:00

Here is a something I created for the bride and groom of a wedding I was blessed to photograph... what fun being a part of something so special!

Had the pics developed today, can't wait to get them to the couple so they can see them...

what do you think?

ten years...

2008-09-16T23:08:00.002-06:00

Today was a very big day for me, a huge anniversary!

Ten years ago today I was given the gift of life, ten years ago today a complete stranger thought I was werthy enough to give me a kidney. She hardly new me, but thought it a good idea that I like another healthy day...

thank you to Carolyn Dean, a true angel on earth!!!

well it is offical!!!

2008-09-11T22:25:00.002-06:00

I can't tell you all how totally excited I was today when my client Teryl showed up with my new business cards, hand created by ME!!! it is official, Soul Photography is born!!!

Now all I have to do is get me some clients.....

Photography Price List My hourly rate is $65.00. For this you get me... and my camera(s) shooting as many amazing pictures as I can. (I am known to take about 100/hour) As well as either a low resolution CD of all pictures taken with NO repair or touch ups or an album of your pictures printed 4x6 with my watermark logo on them. As well as 5 prints of your choice editing to perfection! (No larger than 8x10) Once you have had a chance to go through the photos and pick the ones you want copies of I will go through and edit any imperfections, color correct them, enhance them so that they have that WOW effect and print them for you at the sizes you desire. If you decide you want extra prints for friends and family the prices are as follows: 4x6’s $5.00ea. 5x7’s $7.00ea. 8x10’s $10.00ea. 8x12’s $12.00ea 12x12’s $15.00ea. 12x18’s $25.00ea (If larger prints are needed that will be on a case by case basis.) I can also make a colleague of your pictures for you and have it printed any size you want, the price will vary depending on how elaborate you want it, and how much time it takes. Please note that by agreeing to this pricing and hiring me you are also agreeing that I am allowed to use these prints in advertising and helping build my business.

Please let me know if you are interested....

Love...

2008-09-08T23:24:00.004-06:00

well back to school I went tonight, intro to digi photography...

Odd I feel like I am going backward instead of forward, but it is a good review which is always nice. Still working on editing my first wedding pics, helping my friend work on her wedding to come, and wishing there was way more time in my day... can anyone else relate???

anyway, here are a few pics that make me smile for today!!!!

odd.... I know, couldn't help it!

2008-09-07T22:01:00.003-06:00

my baby!

2008-09-07T21:32:00.003-06:00

This is my attempt at some digi scrapbooking, a pic of my youngest child Maggie being kissed by an angel......

odd really....

2008-07-30T11:11:00.004-06:00

I was giving my blogging friend Christy the gears cause I never see updates on her blog, then wouldn't ya know it I go to mine, and nothing for over two months!! lol

how bad is that!

Ok, I should mention however that I have been totally busy and totally stressed out, dealing with all sorts of family "issues" those who know me well know what they are, as well as working my tail off to afford a new camera(which I got, teehee)

Nikon D300 so sexy!! Love it!

we also got jake our puppy fixed...

got a new roommate Named Andrea

went camping...

did a very small amount of scrapbooking do to a violent case of foood poisoning, YUCK!

and have been taking pictures!!

perhaps I will show you a few of my favs!

till next time, when ever that may be..

Laura

this is a pic of my moms garden before the storm killed it!! ok 1/100th of her garden, it really is loverly!

these are pics of my very good friend Corie's newest additon, isn't he so cute!!!

love him already, Oh and as a side not she asked me to be the Godmom, have no idea what thaty intales, but sounds good to me. If anyone can give me some insight on this job that would be AWESOME!

My CD cover...

2008-05-22T21:49:00.002-06:00

As some of you may know I have been taking a photography course, and loving it!

One of the final assignments was to make a CD cover. At first I was going to do a memorial type thing for my dog Molly who just died but instead decided to celebrate the "birth" of my newest puppy child Maggie....

Here it is!

welcome to the family

2008-05-21T07:59:00.002-06:00

Introducing our newest addition, Maggie Anne Please note that I did try three times to turn this pic but clearly it was meant to go sideways! sort of like my little girls very sweet but frisky personality!!! what a sweetie!

photoshop Elements!

2008-04-19T08:56:00.004-06:00

Started my second photography class, and loving it...

Photoshop for photographers it is called.

The first call we learned how to clone, remove small lines and blemishes, as well as repair old photos, so fun!!

after I was done the class I quickly came home and wanted to play, I don't have the program we use in school, as it is over $1000.00 so please note that my results may not be perfect, yet so fun!

here are a few before and afters!Before

after!

these are two of my scrapbooking girlfriends, don't they look hot!

before...

after!

This is one of my clients Jenn.... she is so beautiful!

take care, will post more before/afters as I learn more tricks!