invitation and a new camera

Last week Alfredo and I set up a little scene with a birthday dinosaur and Club Little House miniatures for a little photo shoot for his birthday invitation. Isn't it cute? As soon as he wakes up from his nap, we're off to the post office to put stamps on these babies and send them on their way. 

And guess what...I got a new camera for Christmas!

I've had the same old one for years and years and really needed an update. I don't know a whole lot about photography so I wanted to stick with a point and shoot. Whenever I looked for a new one, I would go away so confused and frustrated. Finally, I just asked Rich to research and pick one for me.

I'm just fiddling around with it, learning all about it and seeing how it compares to my ancient one. I snapped a few dozen just now of this sneak peek at something I'm working on for the magazine. Something about them just doesn't "feel" like my photos...you know what I mean? And I don't like to read manuals...I'm a button pusher. Only something tells me this old dog is going to have to break down and read at least a few pages.

so, how are you anyway?

1. I'm super busy organizing the next issue of the magazine. I think you're going to love it.
2. My father is doing so well. We're hoping he'll come home this week. Thank you so much for your prayers. Alfredo and I are going for a visit later this week.
3. Alfredo's 4th birthday (can you believe it?!) is just around the corner. Invitations go out today and he's excited about going to the post office and putting a stamp on each one. Isn't it wonderful the little things that are exciting to an almost four year old?
4. I didn't mention it here when it happened but Alfredo's father moved back to California late summer. We're heading out for a visit in a couple of weeks and Alfredo is really excited. 
5. I'm planning an update for Alfredo's room. Hopefully in the next couple of weeks. 
6. I've had a single wall taped up and ready to paint with chalkboard paint for over a month. It's time to do that, I'd say.

That's me these days... Busy. Happy. A little tired. A little behind. Grateful.

How are you?

Happy New Year

Hello, 2011!

What gifts will I unwrap this year? 

 What gifts will I give? 

What will I learn about love in 2011?

What will I teach?

How will I be tested?

Will I emerge stronger? 

I pray my eyes will be open to all the new & wondrous things this year offers.

I pray my heart will be tuned to the truth. 

I pray that with each day I will grow into someone better, happier, worthier of God's great love & grace.

And, when I fail,

in small and big ways,

may I feel the hands of God in my life, 

may I find the way back to the path of my life, and 

May I always be open to His will. 

2011

{the year I turn 40}

bring it on.