Montgomery Memories

New Blog

2010-11-08T07:45:00.000-06:00

After much research and failed attempts, I am resorting to a new blog. I cannot tell you the frustration this has caused me. With the new templates, nothing fits like it used to as far as backgrounds, so I am ever tweeking the thing!!! At any rate, my new blog address is: http://mmtooblog.blogspot.com/ I have named it Montgomery Memories Too. I could not bare to part with all the memories in this blog, so I opted to continue them. I really should print this whole blog incase something were to happen, now that I know the possiblities of that are prevelant. I do have a post on there. See you around the corner in our new Too space!

Photography Blog

2010-11-04T17:17:00.000-05:00

In the midst of trying to figure out why I can't post any more pictures, I moved my photography blog. My new address is: http://katymontphoto.blogspot.com/ I haven't updated it recently, but just wanted to let yall know!

I give up!

2010-11-02T20:57:00.000-05:00

I don't know what else to do. I managed two blogs from my email address. I moved one of my blogs to my other email address in hopes that would free up space for me, but I am STILL unable to post due to being out of storage!!!

Still researching...

2010-10-31T17:34:00.000-05:00

Well, I even tried to start another blog, but the same icon popped up saying I needed to purchase more storage for my pics on here! Ugggghhhhh!!!

I have a problem!

2010-10-23T13:33:00.000-05:00

Well, I was in the middle of uploading pictures and ALL OF A SUDDEN this screen pops up telling me I have REACHED MY LIMIT with photo storage. It gave me the option of PURCHASING storage, but who wants to do THAT? Has this happened to anyone else?

The Playground!

2010-10-23T12:18:00.000-05:00

As we purchased it! Dadda has a lot of work ahead of him!

Making progress!

The Desk!

Fully assembled!!!

Charlie recieved this playground from Aunt Melissa and Nana for his birthday! We are little behind, as his birthday was in August, but we spent some time searching along the way. This was the only set we found with monkey bars, so we HAD to get it! We plan on enclosing the bottom to allow for a fort for Charlie and, of course, a rest area for the dogs.

A day at the pumpkin patch.

2010-10-19T14:37:00.001-05:00

Feeding the bunnies.

And this is what he thought of posing with the pumpkins!

Having fun with Nana.

Feeding the goats.

Excited to see the baby goats. We heard about these goats for days!

Nice to have around the farm!

We were able to feed the goats this way too. We put the food in the cup and...

Up up and away it went!

Having a blast jumping!

Look at that cute boy!

Telling Dadda what he wants to do next.

Love him!

Not really feelin' the measuring chart.

High atop the hay bales.

Tryin' out the maze.

Lovin' the slide. Yes, he cried when we left this. Dadda could only go so many times. It was quite the treck up to the top of that hill.

See me in his glasses?

He liked it! He liked it!!!

Having fun outside!

2010-10-18T17:16:00.000-05:00

Eating Cheetos with Nana.

Boy! These are good!

I'll have another one please.

Nana, you have GOT to try these things!

Concho making a move!

Are they all gone?

Looks like it.

Time for an Oreo straw! Look at Elvis thinking he's gonna get a bite!

Elvis still didn't want to give up. Look at Concho's face! He's going, "I could've told you that wouldn't work!"

Charlie's new Night Night.

2010-10-15T09:36:00.001-05:00

Nana arrived yesterday and came bearing gifts! Among her treasures was a new night night and pillow for Charlie. He took so fondly to them at first, but later returned to his true night night. You know, the red one, that holds his heart.

Talking to Dadda!

2010-10-11T21:40:00.001-05:00

Dadda is away on business this week and we miss him terribly. Here is Charlie talking to his Daddy and telling him he loves him! I think it's so cute how he signs I love you over the phone!

Just Another Day in Paradise!

2010-10-04T21:01:00.001-05:00

Charlie LOVES shaving with Dadda!

Love this concentration!

Precious Hand!

Excited about ~~candy~~ Halloween!

The curls are back! The curls are back!!!

Jumping over Dadda!

Our last moments with Nana.

2010-09-22T11:18:00.000-05:00

In all the excitement during our visit from Nana, we did manage to take a few posed pics! We miss you Nana!

2010-09-22T11:05:00.001-05:00

I am growing lavendar in my kitchen window. I was a bit excited to see this sprout stretch up and say hello!

Reading is fun!

2010-09-22T10:48:00.002-05:00

He can only go so long without being silly.

If you know my child, you know what he is doing here ;}

Charlie LOVES his night night. His night night is full of little red fuzzies. Charlie LOVES to pick off these fuzzies and put them UP HIS NOSE!

Before bed time each night, Charlie picks out a book, usually two or three and we read to him. He LOVES to read and sometimes, takes the initiative himself!

2010-09-11T21:41:00.001-05:00

After much search, dedication and deliberation, the student has learned again! I discovered textures!!! I know, I'm sliding in a little late here, but HEY, at least I'm sliding in!

I learned yet another trick!

2010-09-10T22:39:00.003-05:00

Really, I try not to speak of my weaknesses often. I mean, is it flattering to do so? One could argue no. I have a confession-I did not know how to "antique" an image. There! I said it! My secret is out. With the weight of the world off my shoulders, I can continue. Is it common for anyone else that in the quiet, still hours of the night, we learn? I have learned. I can rest.

Charlie's 2nd Birthday!

2010-09-03T22:16:00.004-05:00

Helping make the brownies to celebrate him! He's a wonderful helper!

Ups! Got to take a break to eat some of the chocolate chips!

There's the thumbs up! The chocolate chips were a hit!

Going for the spoon!

The evidence!

Letting his fingers play too!

Going for a birthday ride on the sprayer with Papa!

Bye Mama!

Visiting with Papa about going for a ride on another tractor!

The negotiating is done!

Love this look! Ha!

Testing his skills on the 4wheeler.

He can turn this and any other thing with a key on and off!

Cheyenne is even getting some lovin'!

Papa is messin' with me!

Getting ready to light the "cake!"

He was over excited to blow the candle out, so we had to light it another few times so Mama could get some pics!

Birthday boy!

Make a wish!

Diggin' in, somewhat gently!

Here Mama!

Opening the presents!

Reaching deep!

A tractor!

Checking out his new shaving kit!

Looking in his mirror!

Really checking out his new shaving kit!

Here Dadda, I'll help you!

Now Dadda helps me!

Smooth!

In addition to celebrating Charlie's birthday while we were in AL, we celebrated it here too. What a lucky kid, right? Charlie LOVES baking and helping Mommy in the kitchen, so we made brownies instead of a cake. Did I mention he loves chocolate as much as I do? His favorite thing right now is riding tractors. He LOVES riding tractors! Papa celebrated his birthday by taking him for a ride on two! Charlie loves the movie Cars and also went home with a big Lightening McQueen. He and Daddy shave together and rub their faces when they're done and say, "smooth." This occurance fills my heart! He is so proud to have his own shaving kit. We had a very fun night celebrating our most precious gift.

2010-09-03T19:34:00.000-05:00

Does anyone know how to change fonts and colors on this new blogger system? I've even googled it, but it only gives directions for the old blogger.

My __ Birthday!

2010-09-03T16:34:00.004-05:00

Beautiful flowers from my Hubby!

Have you noticed how I get stuck on one subject often? I have always been that way. I wear the same clothes over and over. I order the same food at various restaraunts and I watch the same shows over and over. Just a little fun fact about me!

Our cake from May May!

I let him blow out the candles. Wasn't that nice of me?

As soon as we arrived home, May May was itching to see us. She greeted us with this cake and presents! Thank you May May! We love you!

Parasailing!

2010-09-03T16:23:00.003-05:00

The view from our condo.
There we are heading out on the banana float! Is it just me or does that make anyone else think of Jaws?
Loaded and ready to go!

The water was beautiful once we made it past the seaweed that blew in via a rain storm the 1st night we were there.

There goes my hubby! You didn't think I would actually do something that would carry me that high did you? Do you know me at all?

And, just like a fish, he's being reeled back in!

We made it safely to the shore!

Pratt Cemetery

2010-09-01T18:54:00.006-05:00

A nostalgic place.
I heart this fence!
Founder of this town. He was a Yankee! I was surprised to learn that. He founded a rather lovely town.
The reading on his grave.

The oldest marker that was still legible.

A lot of the headstones looked like this.

Confederate Army, don't see that often.

I found it funny that even the days were mentioned.

Till death do us part. Some might find this freeky. I'm a literal girl!

Look at us sporting the air you can wear!!!!!

Before we were to meet a group of my friends, I took my hubby on a tour of Prattville. I love this town. I find it to be extrodinarily charming. I miss living here. If I could, I would relocate this nostalga to where we now live.

Charlie's 1st ride!

2010-08-28T11:23:00.008-05:00

Heading to the barn with Pat Pat.
Resting on Susu!

A "cool" spot in front of the fan.

Mounting up!

All ready!

Out on the range!

Telling me he loves me!

Head shot of Dew Baby!

C'mon horse, I'm ready!

Sigh...I love these two!

Lovin' it!

Boy did Charlie ever love riding the "shoe!" He had SO MUCH FUN! This was also my first time seeing the hubby ride. They traded horses in for 4 wheelers several years before I came along. Sure was fun being at home.

Beach Trip!!!

2010-08-26T22:42:00.025-05:00

Heading out for the 1st time!
Trying not to get any salt water in his eyes!

Getting braver! Look at Daddy's farmers tan! I love a farmers tan!

Wee!

Getting a good taste of the salt water!

And a better taste!

There's that tongue again!

Heading out with Nana.

Here comes a wave!

Having fun with My Miss!

See those red whelps there on his leg? Those are mesquito bites! He reacts terribly to them.

So precious.

So close!

Now he's got the hang of it!

Look at those little footprints leading up to the shore!

Walking to Daddy!

Reaching his goal!

Heading back to the shore.

Getting a little help from Daddy.

I just love the faces he makes!

Battling the water all by himself!

Oh this balloon ride! We had to ride and ride and ride this thing. Several times with Daddy didn't do the trick so Mommy stepped up to the plate. Several times with Mommy didn't do the trick, so Nana stepped up to the plate. With Daddy, Mommy and Nana riddled with motion sickness we had to call it a night. On our way to the car he saw his balloons again and resumed crying! How can he want to ride one ride so much?

Not such a great pic of Charlie, but I thought the hubby looked very handsome here!

There they go!

He loved it! Maybe a little too much.

Poor thing. Look at that face. The carnie guy did let him stay on to spare his little heart!

Still wanting to ride the balloons.

Finally deciding to let go of his longing for the balloons for a brief moment.

Taking a look at the BIG ferris wheel.

And we're off!

Mommy trying to bring the happy in. He did not like getting off this ride!

He did have fun with Nana on the train!

Ahhhh the pool!

He loved jumping off the steps into the water. By the end of the 2nd day, he was swimming away!

"Hi pole!"

He enjoyed going up and down these steps as well.

Walking with My Miss after the not-so-happy photo shoot.

Still not in a good mood!

We had a BLAST at the beach! Charlie wasn't too sure about the water or the sand. He very much so preferred the pool!

Posed-ish pics.

2010-08-26T21:00:00.009-05:00

We had to deal with this mood...

That turned into this mood!

As cute as these diapers are, they are better suited for girls, I guess, because they weren't very good for us.

I think this one is my fav.

EVERYONE who goes to the beach comes back with awesome family pics. I, however, did not do that. I had plans to do that, well of my son because I HATE to be photographed, but he was NOT in the mood. I had these visions of him playing in the sand, playing with his bucket, looking out over the sea, or looking at me with a smile. NONE of these happened and all my precious subject wanted to do was leave! Aeeaaa, I did the best I could.

I'd like to take you on a tour.

2010-08-22T20:41:00.012-05:00

What a beauty! I can't believe I left this delight out of the post! We found this same bloom in the botanical gardens here, but I seriously favor Nana's!!!

Every morning Charlie would sit and watch the fish eat while Nana tended to her botanical garden.

I loved these water lillies.

See the lizard up there?

Look who's in the far left there!

This swing sat in Grandmommie's botanical garden, and now, it sits in Nana's.

Parden my fetish of this lovely bloom.

And again, for my fetish of this bee.

This is Nana's Botanical Gardens! Nana loves nature. I told her she should charge admission, not to us of course.

At this very piano, at this very age...

2010-08-22T20:01:00.005-05:00

I would sit and play!

Charlie LOVES Kitties!

2010-08-22T19:38:00.004-05:00

Sweet Chelsea.

So excited!

Petting Sam too!

Now, they're friends!

Chelsea is Nana's cat that she has had for many years. I remember Chelsea as a kitten when I was a Sophomore in High School. It's been a looooong time since I've been a Sophomore in High School!

Slowing down with My Miss!

2010-08-22T19:23:00.002-05:00

You may not know this, but My Miss adores Halmark. My Miss is very good at creating precious memories and giving us ways to record them. She did just this with a Twinkle Twinkle Little Star book in which each page plays her voice singing the tune. Charlie just loves this little book. He reads it every day and when he comes to the last page that ends with, "Night, night Charlie. Aunt Melissa loves you." he takes a deep breath and looks around as if to say, "I am SOOOOO special!"

Feeding the Ducks!

2010-08-22T18:59:00.009-05:00

Running after his new friends!

Trying to convince his new friend to come closer!

Cute Boy!

Creating quite the following.

Getting better acquainted.

Rub A Dub Dub

2010-08-22T17:34:00.001-05:00

Look at that tongue! We know he is concentrating!

Turning the bubbles on and off. I told you, he can't just enjoy something...he has to figure it out!

A temporary beard!

One day, he will grow into this tub!

I really should stop taking butt pics of my precious, but (no pun intended) this one was just too cute to pass up!

Time with the T Bird!

2010-08-22T17:13:00.004-05:00

Getting ready to ride!

Love this face!

Posting up for us!!!

Letting us know he is done!

Driving!!!

We had so much fun on our trip home. I have been a busy bee and have not had time to update the blog! My dear Aunt Melissa has this precious car and wanted to take some pics with my precious child on it. My child, however, is not one to merely pose and be done. He has to discover, explore and initiate around him whatever he can!

More time with May May!

2010-07-10T09:31:00.005-05:00

Whatcha lookin' at May May?

Ready for my ride!

Scootin' on the ground!

Love the way they are looking at each other!

Giving a shout out to passer bys!

Let me help you May May!

Weeeeeeee!

Operating my "machine!"

Gettin' the hang of it!

Seeing how it tastes (of course)!

Precious thang!

Lovin' the sparkler!

And...then he's bored AGAIN! Love that attention span!

My window boxes! I threw them in just for fun!

A little of this and a little of that...

2010-07-10T08:29:00.003-05:00

Telling Concho he's a good boy!

Wondering what is under there and if he can actually fit!

Following the "cow" in him!

His nose was running that day and he was letting us know!

He loves to write, mostly on himself, but we are working on that!

It's summertime and that means outdoor time! Charlie is learning how to "control" the dogs. He pets them when they are good-pretty much all of the time. Elvis you just have to let slide, but Concho, he is obedient! Here he is twice the size of Charlie and he sits when he tells him to and he gets back when he tells him to and he goes on when he tells him to. I love that dog!

When Nana leaves...

2010-07-10T08:20:00.004-05:00

In action! Doesn't it look fun?

Departing!

Pausing to watch Olivia! I love these little hands of his.

That's Nana with a soft a. He sure did come up with his own name for her! The sis and I were visiting about how it was "funny" that Seth's mom's name was Nina and Charlie comes up with Nana for my mom.

It is a ritual of sorts for Charlie to ride Nana's suitcase when she arives. Of course it doesn't stop just when she arives, it continues on as long as the suitcases are visible. Gotta love little boys!

Botanical Gardens!

2010-06-28T20:29:00.007-05:00

Just a little help needed!

Exploring!

Taking time to rest on chairs set aside for a wedding.

Breaking by the pond.

Peek-a-Boo!

I thought she was pretty!

Learning about so many plants!

Having fun with all the new discoveries!

Pretty waterfall!

Spotting all the goldfish!

Lovin' on Nana every chance he got!

Although breathtakingly beautiful, it was also breathtakingly humid in there!

This is the life!

To learn of my obsession over this banana bloom, visit my photography blog!

In the mist!

Getting a cool drink of water!

Exiting the humidity chamber!

Ending it all with a kiss!

Cutting off the curls!

2010-06-28T20:09:00.005-05:00

Before.

Not sure about what is taking place.

Getting the hang of things.

Staying busy picking his fallen curls.

Tolerating the procedure.

Gumdrops to the rescue!

Distracted by cartoons.

Loving the gumdrops!

Not knowing healthy limits!

Seeing himself for the 1st time!

He loves it!

I was NOT prepared for the change that would take place in cutting all of Charlie's curls off. He looks completey different to me. I informed his father that the curls were coming back and were going to stay until Charlie could tell me otherwise. Some things are just the right of the mom!

I love this child!

2010-06-24T17:15:00.004-05:00

My little helper loves to sit on the washing machine and help me with laundry. After all the clothes are in and the wash begins, he has a blast sitting on top and looking around. These are the days!!!

I love it when I FINALLY figure IT out!

2010-06-23T22:34:00.007-05:00

I called on help from another blogger out there. You see this watermark here? Notice the faded wide strip? Well, I used to want that so bad. With a helpful hint and that ah ha moment, I figured it out! I knew how to make a watermark, but do you know what was actually the most difficult part for me to learn? What kind of file to save it as!!! Knowing that JPEG does not save in layers, I deligently made watermark after watermark after watermark. When it came time to "stamp" my watermark on that oh so desired faded strip, I could not for the life of me figure out why in the world my watermark was stamping a white background on there! Then it happened. I said to myself, "Self...if jpeg doesn't save in layers, it is going to combine this image. Self...when it combines this image, I lose the transparent layer." I sat back, cracked my nuckles and made rubber on my keyboard designing all kinds of watermarks with transparent backgrounds...only this time...I saved them as Photoshop files!

Sigh...I really do have a brain.

Playing with May May!

2010-06-19T08:37:00.002-05:00

HAIR! He reminds me of one of those troll dolls! LOL!!

Having fun with May May's new diva glasses!

Puffy Clouds!

2010-06-19T08:28:00.004-05:00

White balance for incadescent lighting. It gives off a blue hue, obviously, to balance the yellow/orange hue the incadescent light gives off.

White balance for daylight.

White blanace for flourescent light.

White balance for cloudy, which adds a warming filter.

I switched back to daylight as I decided it fit this shot the best.

I am bad about forgetting about the white balance, an effect that is crucially important. I am training myself to keep it on auto, just in case I fire one of those once in a lifetime shots without checking all of my settings. I prefer to set it myself as the white balance can completely change the look of a picture.

Everyone enjoys a snack around here!

2010-06-19T08:23:00.002-05:00

Look at the concentration on that face!

See the noses in the corner there?

Getting ready to make the pitch!

Watching the storms roll in.

2010-06-19T07:49:00.010-05:00

Picking up rocks!

See his little slobbers from studying so hard?

He loved to say, "Boom!" every time it thundered!

Looking everywhere for little rocks he could throw off the porch!

And there they go!

So into the weather!

Plucking my cute little flowers...

And throwing the petals off the porch! Do you see the little petal flying away?

My newest addition to the front flower bed.

One of my planters.

Jasmine, with its heavenly aroma, is planted in the center, but is slow taking off this year.

So sweet!

Look at those little feet!

Such a big boy.

Elvis lip!!!

Here comes the storm!

All this comotion for just a sprinkle of rain!

Right here in this chair was his favorite place to be!

Charlie loves to be outside. He and Daddy are storm chasers at heart. They love to sit on the front porch and watch the storms roll in. Daddy wasn't here this time :( As sweet and innocent as he looks here, yall should witness the going inside part: NOT PRETTY!!!

Jesus loves the little children.

2010-06-13T16:12:00.000-05:00

The new way to vaccuum!

2010-06-13T16:00:00.004-05:00

He is just so busy!

Love this action shot!

Why does it take me 2 hours to vaccuum our 1200 square foot home? Becasue I have this precious little helper!

Our Pool!

2010-06-13T15:54:00.006-05:00

I took some time to edit these pics. I love seeing before and afters, or in this case, after and befores!

We decided we just didn't use the country club pool enough last year to renew our membership. So, this year, we are making due with other resources. Exhibit A: the dog's tank!

Is this outfit for a boy or girl?

2010-05-30T15:18:00.008-05:00

I love this pear shaped look!

Always in motion!

Look at that tongue!!!

I love this face of his! He's so curious when I have my camera out! I was using a prime lense here, so I couldn't adjust the focal length. You can also see that I was using a wide aperture, thus the shallow depth of field.

Everything is worth exploring!

The fun of being a child!

What a shot! See that spot on the back of his right calf? That is not a burn. It is a mesquito bite! I thought it was a spider bite, so much so that we made a trip to the doctor. It looks so much better here.

The poor kid. He's just not happy! Forgive the mess, we went to Sams and I have not put everything up yet!

I just love the scalloped bottom!

I love this outfit. I love the way it gives Charlie a pear shape! Yall should know I am married to a manly man. There is nothing metrosexual about hubby. Having said that, he thinks that outfits such as this one look like dresses, and that is what he calls them...dresses. You can imagine his excitement when he learned Charlie would be wearing this to church. In his good nature, he just grins and bears it. Hubby figures that he will have his turn when Charlie is older, as that is just what I have told him. I only have this one window to do this to him and I intend on using it to the fullest! Hubby said he was asked, by more than one person, this morning if this outfit was for a boy or girl.

Summer Time....and the living is easy!

2010-05-30T14:48:00.008-05:00

Not at all happy with his decision to run through the sprinklers!

He finally found his way out and to Mommy!

Not having luck finding his way out!

They looked so harmless in the beginning!

Daddy decided to give it a go!

Ooooh, he's getting so big.

Someone else has children too! I have counted 5 little fury heads in here.

Charlie hears them during feeding time and says, "Bir" and points. He loves to stand at the door and watch them.

Efforts of my green thumb haven't failed me yet!

I have two rosebushes that replinish my bud vases regularly.

This was a wonderful weekend for us. We enjoyed time together. We also cut open a watermelon on the back patio. We decided that watermelon is Charlie's new found love!

Happy Birthdy Daddy!

2010-05-24T14:37:00.002-05:00

Tuesday was hubby's birthday. My man is inching his way to 30! I tell him that he's a freak of nature because his body is the same since high school and he doesn't age. Like I was saying, we recently celebrated hubby's birthday. He loves cheesecake, so I made one just before he arrived home. I tried to clean up all the evidence before his arrival, but failed miserably as noted here!!! I just couldn't rob our little one of all this joy he had found!

It's all about a boy.

2010-05-16T10:28:00.003-05:00

Charlie received his 1st back pack in a care package. Inside, treasures are kept! One of Charlie's favorite things to do is draw. Fully equiped with washable markers and paper, his back pack is never too far out of his reach!

Charlie loves to be read to as well. All boy, he equally enjoys jumping on the bed, any bed! We have a lot of fun on the weekends blowing up our air mattress and spending time laid up in the living room. We have a lot of fun just being together, period.

More subtle edits.

2010-05-15T11:18:00.004-05:00

I am capable of performing more subtle changes! Learning just what PSE 8 can do is very addicting. As I "speak" I am sitting at my computer, rejecting the piles of laundry that need tending to, the floors that need attention, the bathrrom that needs cleaning...you get the idea. How do I justify all this time I spend? Hopefully, in the NEAR future, it will PAY off!

Meanwhile, back at the ranch, I would like to tell you just what changes I made. I added clouds. How fun, right?! I also whitened the teeth, added color and gloss to the lips, gave her smooth skin and blended the light. I didn't even go ALL out and make it look like a glamour shot!

How About Some DRAMA!!!

2010-05-14T23:13:00.003-05:00

Before

After

I am a COLORHOLIC!!! I love COLOR! I love the DRAMA of the effect. I like to see a photograph and I like the photograph to see me. You know what I mean? I like it just on the edge of unbelievable. It's a little much for most people, but then there's those that will drool! Here's to yall-my soul sistas!

2010-05-14T13:33:00.003-05:00

Much to the dismay of my family, I have severely neglected my blog. The good news is that I have been keeping busy and productive in its absence! I headed into my final exam with a 98 average in my photography class. My goal was to finish with the highest score. Myself and another student were neck and neck throughout the semester. I do not know that I will truly know who finished in what order, so lets just go ahead and give myself the credit! (Hehe!) My class was very educational and fun! We bonded and hosted the 1st ever pot luck as we viewed our final projects-slideshows! We will miss one another. I have also started a photography blog, which you all are aware of. A lady in our community that owns a precious shop has agreed to allow me to hang a gallery wrap in her boutique as advertisement! I love these pics of my sis, you can visit my photography blog to view the other shots from the shoot. The trouble is that I cannot figure out which one I want to hang. I would love to learn your input!

Chicken Salad Hits the Spot!

2010-05-05T22:48:00.003-05:00

Charlie went from being an excellent eater to being a picky eater to be a good eater to being a.....you get the picture. Meal times haven't always gone smooth for us. I am pleased to say that he seems to be more stable as he ages. I don't think the boy is going to go hungry, to say the least. Among other things, he loves chicken salad. His favorite part: feeding himself!!!

2010-04-24T12:31:00.001-05:00

I started my own photography blog!!! Please check it out and spread the word!
katymontgomeryphotography.blogspot.com

Our Little Monkey!

2010-04-14T11:43:00.003-05:00

Notice the face!

Before we rearranged Charlie's room, I had to fold down the bumper becuase of this very habit of our little one. For some strange reason, I thought I could leave it as is this time around. During nap time yesterday, Charlie spent an hour talking to himself, tickling his toes, rolling around and saying "whooooaaaa" several times. I looked in frequently to check on him. The above is evidence of how I found him! He would strattle the rail and say, "whoooaaaa!" Needless to say, the bumper got folder back down!

The 1st Haircut!

2010-04-12T21:46:00.006-05:00

Cutting the 1st curl.

Aunt Melissa handy with the bag.

Finding comfort in Daddy.

Checking himself out.

Cartoons were on the flat screen to keep him occupied. It worked...sorta.

A little aggrevated.

Totally done with this!

Still not happy, but found the strength to keep going.

All done! Doesn't he look so handsome?

P.S. His hair still curls up at the top, it was just combed down here.

The family came for a visit this past week and I decided to share this 1st with them. I didn't cry. This was a rather exciting event for us. Charlie didn't do as bad as he could have. Patience is not his thing, just as it is not mine. Daddy was a hero, once again.

Another heirloom!

2010-04-06T00:51:00.002-05:00

I have been toy box shopping for a couple of weeks. I showed hubby the type of toy box I was leaning toward and he says to me, "I have one just like that." Now, usually this is followed by, "I don't know where it is." Sunday hubby and Charlie visited Grandpa and found his toy box! We had so much fun sitting in the floor exploring his old toys. The train is definitely my fav! I realize now that I didn't get a single pic of the toy box! LOL. I will have to follow up on that! We also gathered so much energy from the nostalgic toys that we decided to rearrange Charlie's room at 10:00 that night! So glad my boy has his own toy box!

Just for Fun!

2010-03-29T09:35:00.003-05:00

Not happy! Don't worry, candy was on its way!

I thought about removing the drool here, but then it would take away his personality.

I love his face here. He is as pure as he looks!

Portrait.

2010-03-24T19:23:00.003-05:00

Our latest assignment was to take a portrait of someone doing something that describes them. Our praise and worship team was so kind to let me come and take pics during a practice. My favorite however were these of my happily ever afters. I love the 1st one. I love their hands. Charlie is focused on the leadership Seth is giving as to say to him, "This is way to life my son."

I just can't get enough!

2010-03-20T15:53:00.002-05:00

I love these footed pjs and the way Charlie loves to look at himself in the mirror.

One of the funniest things in our lives is the way Charlie zones out when watching tv. I think a tornado could come through and he wouldn't even know.
P.S. The same has been said about me! HeHe!!

Diffuse Glow

2010-03-20T14:42:00.004-05:00

We touched on the subject of lighting in my class just before Spring Break. We learend about diffuse light vs specular light. Specular light has harsh shadows and occurs more in sun light or direct light. Diffuse light produces softer shadows and a nice glow, if you will. I finally discovered the difuse filter in PSE 8. All these things seem to come to me just before I give up. In these pics, I wanted to give a soft, tender glow. I am curious to see what you think. In the last pic, I saturated it a bit as I found the diffuse filter also washes out the color, so it is a bit more choppy than the other two.

Waiting on Grandma!

2010-03-19T23:26:00.003-05:00

Again with the hair! I just can't resist! His head looks extraordinarily big here to me. At this glance, I am glad I had a c-section!

Looking for Grandma!

Scoping out the surroundings.

Checking out the other side.

Is she coming yet?

When Charlie and I arrived at the airport, we discovered Grandma's plane was delayed a bit. I found it wise to wait this out in the car rather than the airport, which was unusually crowded. Me being me, decided to take advantage of the moment and grab some pics! One can never over document one's life!

Mesmorized, yet again.

2010-03-15T22:06:00.004-05:00

We spend A LOT of time watching Nick Jr. In between each cartoon a moose and his owl friend come on. Charlie hears that moose and comes a running. He's put for the duration. He's not so

interested in the duration of the cartoons, but that moose really does a number on him!

I like this one best...I think?

2010-03-15T19:59:00.002-05:00

I will post more of the pics from our most recent session. So far, I think this one is my fav. I took so many, it's hard to tell. I was so proud of myself in the narrowing down. I started with over 320 and narrowed down to 60. As I post them, let me know the ones you like best!

This is how we roll!

2010-03-14T21:48:00.005-05:00

Watching the action.

Too curious to stay put!

Happy.
Note: we are happy people. The simple things in life make us smile. You know, like having your dogs clean your child's high chair. I mean, I wasn't having to do it, right?

Smiling at his clean up crew!

All in!

Looking for Elvis! Isn't that face precious?

Concho wants some sooo bad!

Still waiting for a bite, or a crumb, or a promising lead of the sorts!

Both of them have their eyes on the last piece!

So cute...they are all checking each other out! See the two noses on the right?

Taking a moment to look at me! Ahhh, I sigh at this face!

Finger licking good!

So Handsome!

2010-03-14T21:08:00.004-05:00

I so love these curls.

Look how they flip up in the back!

I love this outfit!

He loves to try to give me the lense cap! I think he is telling me that I take WAY too many pictures!

Another make shift shoot!

2010-03-14T20:59:00.003-05:00

Playing with Daddy.

I love these two!

Playing with Daddy some more!

Sharing his new friend, Mr. Twizzler.

Oops! The backdrop fell down!

I did manage to get some cute pics like this one...

and this one.

I couldn't resist getting a shot of this hair!

Mesmorized!

2010-03-12T15:12:00.000-06:00

Watching Little Bear. Mesmorized...completely.

Get outta da way Mommy!

What's up with Fred?

2010-03-12T15:08:00.002-06:00

This has been Fred lately. He doesn't swim around with the fury that he used to. I couldn't even get him to eat today. I've had him for two years. I think he might be getting ready to make an exit.

I love this child!

2010-03-12T15:03:00.002-06:00

Isn't this onsie so cute? The moose is hugging him and his arms run across to the back!

P.S. He has socks that match!

Look at those eyelashes...the nose...the lips...the ear...the hair...that cute little elbow. There's just so much to love about him!

Lovin' this toy!

2010-03-12T13:47:00.003-06:00

He likes to put the ball in this way now.

Making sure it went alllll the way down!

And again.

I just love this hair of his. Still don't know when I'll cut it, much the dismay of some.

Making it go for yet another round!

Learning my new lense...

2010-03-12T13:39:00.003-06:00

The famous BLANKET (aka: Night Night)!

A surprised Charlie!

Having fun...as usual!

A great helper!

2010-03-11T13:54:00.002-06:00

Among other things, Charlie is a great helper. As he grows, he nurtures this desire in him. Today, he also helped Mommy load clothes into the washing machine. He loves to load them into the dryer and slam the door shut, but today he explored the washing machine as well. He also brought his blanket to me to tell me that it needed washing too! I love the reunion of those two when the washing and drying is complete. Charlie LOVES his blanket!!!

Charlie's new hobby!

2010-03-07T17:14:00.003-06:00

Chillin with Daddy.

Stacking cans.

Charlie's new hobby is stacking items. He is particularly fond of the cans in the cabinet!

Now that May May's here...

2010-03-07T17:04:00.001-06:00

...we have fun on the computer together!

How do you sleep?

2010-02-28T14:36:00.003-06:00

Surely not like this!

Or with all this company!

ANOTHER Fall!

2010-02-28T14:24:00.002-06:00

Showing how he REALLY felt!

Always exploring!

Battle scars do happen when one is growing up, but each one continues to break my heart.

This is dedicated to the one I love!

2010-02-25T09:12:00.003-06:00

If you follow my blog and take note of my photography, you've noticed I am most attracted to macro shots. I've become a fan of manual mode in the process and can't seem to stop taking photographs! My love took a moment apart from his computer to allow me to capture my artistic view of him. I am a blessed woman to have the privilege of looking into these eyes til death do us part. The 1st one is my favorite. It seems to capture his kindness. He is a very kind man.

I love it when this happens...

2010-02-23T22:17:00.005-06:00

The branches absorb just enough moisture to take hold of the ice that forms next and allows the snow to make a firm grip. The sky boasts its best blue to cast a most beautiful background.

These are a few of my favorite things!

2010-02-21T13:13:00.003-06:00

My precious child...

Cute outfits with lots of personality...

CHOCOLATE...

Cute aprons, scrollies in my doorways...

and learning to shoot photographs with straight lines!!!

Charlie: 18 mos.

2010-02-20T22:52:00.006-06:00

My baby is already 18 mos. Sometimes it seems as if we were bringing him home just yesterday and then, at times, I catch myself pondering on his baby months and they seem so far gone. We have fallen victim to time and it has run its course on our lives. Meanwhile, back at the ranch, our offspring has sprung! He's so smart that he catches me by surprise often. Of course he's running around and climbing onto everything his little feet and toes will allow. His mouth has begun to release itself upon us and he has this beautiful language that spills forth often. In words we understand, he says: Momma, Dadda, puppy, light, hot, back and bye bye. This will change soon as he is ever practicing, filling our home with the most joyful noise! Just today he sat in my lap and was held captive by a book I read to him. We explored the world of animal noises together and I had to read it three times before he was satisfied. He loves making animal noises and has mastered a kitty, dog, cow, frog and is cultivating a host of others. He is learning sign language and can tell us when he wants water, is hungry, wants more and is finished. He's also really good at shrugging his shoulders when he can't find something. His blanket is his best friend and a staple. Little did I know that $5.00 holiday purchase at Walmart would amount to such importance! He's had three earaches, a bout with asthma and a flu like virus since his birth. His eating fluctuates, but he's a sucker for sweets and ANYTHING chocolate! He loves playing outside and taking baths. We are so blessed to be his parents. I pray over him every night after he is asleep. I pray for a peaceful, full nights rest, sweet dreams, angels of protection over him and that he will grow into a man ofter God's own heart. I love this child of mine!

What have I been doing?

2010-02-20T15:00:00.002-06:00

I've added a lovely accent to this needy lamp. I painted the shade a while back and love this edging. It has become harder and harder to find.

I hate shooting with a flash. I almost always try to avoid this because it washes out the background. I realize the bottom of this pic is a little dark and using a flash would have provided some filler light, but I just couldn't bring myself to do it. My meter said I had proper exposure, so I went with it!

I also happen to love this beaded accent. I am thinking about combining it on top of the edging on the lamp. See the glow of the candle? Using a flash would have totally wiped that out.

Our assignments in class require that we shoot in manual. I have never shot in manual before. That may shock some of yall. I mean, the thought that I want to be a photographer and don't use manual is borderline obscene! I must fix that. It's all about establishing a comfort zone. I spent some time today wondering about the house taking photos in low light using manual mode. I am getting it. I used shutter speeds as low as 1/3. I never thought I would have a clear picture with that slow of a shutter speed. Photography is so fun:}

So in love...

2010-02-13T22:01:00.001-06:00

...with my baby's curly hair!!!

Houston: we've got a climber!!!

2010-02-12T19:27:00.003-06:00

Getting warmed up...

Stretching his ability...

Satisfied with his progress for the day.

Like his father, Charlie loves to climb. I have heard countless stories of the hubby being found on top of counters and refrigerators! I brace myself for this continuance to his heir. I thought I was safe, as Charlie could only make it so far on the changing table. As one would guess, he totally caught me off guard the other day by climbing to the top of the changing table. He was full of grunts and giggles as he climbed his way to the top! Oh, the days that lay ahead of us!

I love these feet!

2010-02-12T19:24:00.001-06:00

I see you...

2010-02-12T19:06:00.004-06:00