Black and White Wednesday

(My apologies to anyone who came to see my black and white photos before I managed to get this post up. You see, I somehow did things backwards..... imagine that and then had a few interuptions by girls who have learned to peel their own carrots, and so my linky link was listed before I even posted a picture. That's my story and I'm sticking to it.)

A fellow blogger, Lisa, has Black and White Wednesday on her blog. Although I'm much more of an amateur than the others I'm sure, I do love photography and editing and I'm feeling the need to be creative in some way today.

I chose a photo of three faces I love, my husband, and my two youngest daughters. This shot was captured soon after he came home from work one afternoon. During the summer his hours are long and since he leaves so early in the morning, usually before the girls are awake, the moment of his return is greatly anticipated!

Cami named this photo, The Sandwich.....I'll let that name stick! Thank you for visiting.

I ♥ Faces "Contemplative" Contest

I chose a recent photo of Delilah for the contest theme "contemplative" this week. We met her and held her for the first time on June 14 in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia. The past three months have been a time of tremendous change for all of us, but most especially for Delilah, barely 3 years old who has had to adapt to a whole new world. She has learned so many things and she has shared to many of her special gifts with us. This steady, contemplative gaze is one I see sometimes as she looks into my face, hoping to find what she needs there, as she tries to understand all that has befallen her. Even with so much to consider, Delilah is willing to wrap her arms around the world, with a heart that is true and a spirit that radiates love.

I ♥ Faces Contest ~ Nostalgia

Visit I ♥ Faces for more photos and information about their awesome contests!

For the Nostalgia theme photography contest I chose this recent photo of my fifth child hugging her armful of Elmos! Elmo has been around for many childhoods in our house, the collection passed down and enriched by each child's particular choice of a favorite. Elmo was the first imaginary friend for most of our children and he will forever remind me of the sweetness and innocence of children who believe friends can come in all shapes and sizes..... and colors!

Color and Light

Here is a sample of some photos I took, playing with unusual colors and light.

Graduation

We recently had the honor of attending big sister Lauren's college graduation. She has worked hard for four years and she deserves every bit of pride, relief and excitement that she now feels.

We spend a fun day in her college town, exploring downtown, and getting a little taste of the place she has called home for the past few years.

Cami loved exploring the fountains and elevators and even the bleachers. She hung in there like a champ until about 9pm when she crawled up in my lap and asked me to sing her a lullaby.

First Taste of Summer