Jamer Time

James' cousins call him "Jamers". He's been having a fantastic time hanging with Zebi and Orion since they arrived with Aunt Shasha Monday night. Tonight he climbed in bed with them and watched them as they played their computer games (photos pending). I can only imagine what technological device will have my son's eyes glued to the screen when he's old enough. For now I simply enjoy witnessing James grow more and more every day into a little person who interacts with others, chooses the books he wants me to read him, is intrigued by the garbage truck, and who is learning that "give kisses" doesn't mean "give headbutts".

I haven't been able to catch James' attention that often when the camera is front of me because, well, I guess he's over it. However, I was able to capture a few moments this past weekend, one of which is a real gem, eye contact and all (the blog really warps the image of its quality but you get the picture).

G

Both photos taken with Contax645

80mm lens

f/2.0

FujiPro 400h

Trip to the Fire Station

It was a big deal. James and I went for a walk through the neighborhood and ended up outside of the Venice Fire Department. The garage doors were open and I saw one man meandering around. After introducing ourselves I asked if it would be alright if we took a look around. The fireman was very nice and gave us a tour of the garage and the numerous trucks. Of course James was in heaven, especially when he told him it was alright to sit in the truck; he even raise the seat up so that my boy could look out.

Taking a look at these photos does not do the event justice. James looks borderline miserable in some of them, but I PROMISE he had a blast!

More Film ~ Contax 645

Taryn and Olive came to stay with us for a few days because my sister had a conference to attend down in Dana Point. We got some good time together and aside from the whining, bullying, aversion to sharing, etc, it was a fun trip. We were able to make it up to Malibu a couple of times where we enjoyed the sun, the beach and of course a little shopping. We'll have to give O and J some more time to really be able to play together but at least they got in some practice. We miss you already!

As a sidenote, I got back some film I took with my new Contax 645 and am in love. I definitely need more practice but am smitten with what I was able to capture. I'll be attending Jonathan Canlas' 'Film Is Not Dead' workshop in July and am really excited about learning more from someone so inspiring. I'm a bit nervous too! Below are some images taken with the Contax 645 of Taryn and Olive's trip, along with some family stuff of the boys.

Contax T3

Not so long ago I got a Contax T3, a small point-and-shoot that takes film. I heard this is a really great camera and figured this might lead me back to including film in my life. These are scans of some of the photos I got back from my first 2 rolls of film, one black and white, one color. The black and white was shot in pretty low light with high ISO, so some of it is pretty grainy, but I must say I love the look of film more and more.


The photo below was taken (obviously) after a lot of rain in Los Angeles. James was super excited to strap on his boots and go exploring. He would all but submerge his face in every puddle he came across and certainly couldn't contain the splashing. His expression below exemplifies what he looked like 75% of our walk. Every time he splashed himself in the face with water, he was both excited and surprised!




Fran and his mom, the real, in person, Gjelina.
Ok, I think my husband looks pretty good here. Agreed?

Fran loves this pose with the kids:

Amazing Things Will Happen

Now, I'm really not a follower of either Conan O'Brian or Jay Leno; and I don't even know what is behind all the drama and who will be hosting The Tonight Show and why....but I do appreciate Conan's message on his last day. This, I believe. (And it reminds me of something my husband would say).

Morning Chillout

This is what a typical morning with Papa looks like for George:

Angel Babies

Tonight I grieve for this Mother www.natalienortonphoto.com and her family, who lost their precious 8 week old, Gavin, today after a week-long battle with RSV and pertussis. You might think I knew this Mama but I did not, at least not personally. I check her blog almost daily but have not ever met her. This story hit me hard due to the passing of another angel baby over the summer. I am just so saddened by the loss of such sweet lives and at the same time inspired by the courage the parents display to go through such a thing and still keep on living. I don't know how she did it but Natalie blogged almost the entire time she was in the hospital, specifically asking for prayers from around the world. Her belief in God never wavered, and in the end, when the Lord took her precious baby, she accepted his decision and stood strong that he is a good God. Her faith and strength was truly inspiring.

And therefore tonight I feel extremely blessed. I am blessed to have two healthy sons and a loving husband. I am blessed that I have my family and friends that support and love me. I love you all and will continue to pray for the families whose little ones have gone on to be with the Lord.

Rest in Peace, Gavin.