While out in Arizona, I took some quick shots for Audra of her family. Ellie is NOT easy to capture - a quick mover she is. I think she thought we were playing a game for a while. So, when these showed up on my card I was happy. While one she is looking, the other is how she was that day - in perfect capture.

I miss taking photos and processing them…for clients that is. My photography business is pretty much non-existent these days. I’m starting to embrace that and just go with the design thing. While it’s not my true dream to design as much as I am doing now, it does pay the bills and I figure sometimes that the photography gig as a portrait photographer isn’t meant to be. Thoughts for the moment.

My birthday isn’t until next week, and had I opened a package that was all gift-wrapped I would have sat it aside till Tuesday. But, it was just open there in some pink tissue paper, so I dug in.

Tara Sroka, you are the sweetest thing! It’s a little bit of Tara (the green basket) and a little bit of me (pink knick knacks). I love it.

Made me smile when I needed a little pick-me-up this week. Can’t wait to see you in July at CHA.

It’s the last day to purchase the ASPCA Digital Scrapbooking Kit! I have to go in and do a tally tomorrow of what we raised so I can get a check to them. Please note that this kit will NOT be available after today!

Please download your purchase immediately!

To purchase, click here.

Also, digital scrappers alike, please check out Tammy’s new site, Fairy Davis & Friends! If you’re into vintage and collage work - hybrid alert! You’re going to love what’s going on there. I helped her set up her site and love her love for that vintage stuff! Right now it’s more vintage images, but there will be some frames and other things that digital and hybrid style collage artists can purchase. Plus, check out her links on the blog - so much inspiration! Makes me want to try my hand and collage! LOL

Finally, thank you for being respectful on my post last night. I think all too many pro-war supporters tend to think just because you don’t support the war means you don’t support our military. That’s just not true. So, thank you.

This was such a busy weekend and then lots to do this week. I took the entire weekend off from the computer. Only allowed myself access to three email accounts via my iPhone and that was it. Turned the laptop on Monday morning and welcome to hell. Go figure if you take off a few days.

So, Friday evening we spent with family as we had out of town relatives in. Friday night I started back in the middle of the night with bad stomach feelings. That whole possible gallbladder thing. So, I took it easy Saturday day and we headed over to Dan’s for his welcome home party. Celebrating his short time with us.

I was the worst photographer at that party. Only about three decent shots. Oh well. We had lots of shots and drinks that night. But all in good fun. Before we got too crazy we did have to go pick up Andrea at the airport (Jake was the sober driver until then). I went with him for the ride.

Once back it was lots of laughs. My cheeks hurt so much. He and Jake were spilling their guts to mom and Dan’s dad about all the bad things they did in the past. Oh my goodness!!!!

Dan shared his Iraqi money with us. We converted this stash to about $22 only. To hear his stories about things over there, it’s heart breaking.

I don’t care what side you stand on politically, but this kid, nor any other 18/19 year-old should NOT be there seeing and experiencing that crap. Dan is NOT in any safe zone. He doesn’t have running water almost ALL the time. He’s on 24/7 - hoping to get a nap in here and there. He’s constantly in cross-fire, and has seen the loss of life of his own.

Dan showed us video from his point-and-shoot during crossfire. My heart fell into my stomach. Pictures of their humvee pelted with bullets - the windshield completely unable to be seen out of. Huge holes that went through the doors. His scars from shrapnel and well, a bullet that he got out of his armor two days after he realized it was there.

No, it’s not right. No, he isn’t happy to be there. No, he isn’t happy with his choice. But he’s doing his job. And all we can do is support him and pray for him and others like him. After all, we’re not on the same fighting terms as them. It will never be the same level. I don’t care what you say.

I am pleased to stand up and say I do not support this war, and I want Dan to come home, for good - just like I want every other man and woman over there for this no-win situation. If you have it in your heart, please adopt a soldier - or marine, or whatever branch you want to support. Send them care packages. Let them know you are praying and hoping for them. Children in Iraq love chocolate and Dan says they love soccer balls. Let’s send them all blank cards, chapstick, magazines (gather up your last month’s subscriptions!)

Please note that I will be moderating comments and will allow only those that are non-confrontational. Please be an adult in this matter.

I’m around - really.

Just stuff going on. The weekend was busy.

Sometimes, you just need a little break.

I’m trying to get it all together again.

Meanwhile,

Happy Birthday to Ellie! 3 Years Old! Tell mom and dad to spoil you - and hope you feel better soon.