tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81804185333419611952024-03-13T03:54:02.767-07:00A Small TribeMarinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04367316302196119165noreply@blogger.comBlogger200125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180418533341961195.post-71120235092369925172014-05-04T11:02:00.001-07:002014-05-04T11:09:12.416-07:00Life Simplified.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wrEc17auGVs/U2Z7yCePGfI/AAAAAAAACN4/hWlbywbRSXc/s1600/tilden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wrEc17auGVs/U2Z7yCePGfI/AAAAAAAACN4/hWlbywbRSXc/s1600/tilden.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I ran my 10th marathon last week. Went back to Big Sur for the third time. Undertrained, unprepared. It was hard. It's over now and I am ready for a break from races, a break from the financial stress of saving for races, a break from the mental weight of having to train for races, a break from the guilt when I don't. <br />
<br />
I started running 3 years ago to feel empowered and have time for myself. It was a journey to find myself again. I lost weight (and then gained it back). I met amazing people and now have the dearest, lifelong friends from running. I've travelled the world to run, been to places I'd never imagine I'd go... and now I feel tired.<br />
<br />
I am the first to admit that I am an obsessive person. Very few things in my life are done halfway. I immerse myself in a passion for a few years and then my head gets tired of it. I never totally walk away, I grow richer and wiser. But I just can't sustain that energy towards something forever.<br />
<br />
Balance is an overused word, perhaps even cliched. But I am searching for it. I have fallen in love with the concept of minimalism. It's not that I am trying to make my house (or life) bare, but that I am trying to make room for the things that are of utmost importance to me. My children, my husband, my mental and physical health. Running is part of that, but I am realizing that I don't need to keep up the pace with the races and travel that I have been doing. I went back to the trails this morning where my running journey began and it felt oh so GOOD. It was simple, it was quiet, the only sound were birds chirping and my footsteps on leaves. It was beautiful and it nourished my soul, something I haven't felt in all the marathons over the years. It's where I want to return.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AS3nhluQuNY/U2Z2u3VH2mI/AAAAAAAACNo/cUD264kUjbU/s1600/running_dreaded.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AS3nhluQuNY/U2Z2u3VH2mI/AAAAAAAACNo/cUD264kUjbU/s1600/running_dreaded.png" height="273" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">photo courtesy of Ilovetorun.com</span></i></div>
<br />
I am learning to let go of so many things that have been consuming my time and thoughts. It's not just races. It's freeing to start shedding the weight of commitments and obligations I've been carrying, but it's also scary. I'm learning to say no to requests and the things that are not essential in my life. I worry that people will not like me as much if I am not available, but then I realize that I do not like myself very much when I am sacrificing my life energy towards people or things that don't value it. <br />
<br />
This is my slowing down time. I refuse to race to the next thing, place, relationship. I want to relish being with the friends and family that I love most and make my happy place- mentally and physically- be about what nourishes me and puts me in a place where I can nurture those that I love.<br />
<br />
This is life simplified.Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04367316302196119165noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180418533341961195.post-78171413643302576732013-11-18T14:38:00.000-08:002013-11-18T14:38:00.927-08:00Wildings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dpoGVCToEnc/UoFb4IMMJtI/AAAAAAAACLA/kV9k2iUJdNc/s1600/wildings_pt2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dpoGVCToEnc/UoFb4IMMJtI/AAAAAAAACLA/kV9k2iUJdNc/s640/wildings_pt2.jpg" width="428" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
My boys and their friends and an afternoon at the park. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So very Lord of the Flies.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Love my Wildlings</div>
Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04367316302196119165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180418533341961195.post-85476129101542729132013-11-10T18:10:00.002-08:002013-11-11T10:26:04.738-08:00HomecomingA little over 5 years ago, I started this blog to celebrate my family. I was a mother to two toddler boys and pregnant with my third. I had just fallen in love with Waldorf Education, I was starting to become passionate about creating images through photography to capture my sons' childhood, I wanted to have a way to connect with others and share the basics of homemaking. This was all before everyone started gathering on Facebook and Pinterest as online coffee klatches. I met some wonderful women through the mothering.com forums and through shared images on flickr. I felt like I had found my tribe of mothers from all over the world, all just trying to create beautiful safe spaces for our children to grow up in and that we had each other to learn from and support and I am so proud that a handful of these women are still my friends today.<br />
<br />
For many of us, our children are older, less in the early childhood education stages. The gorgeous wooden toys have been replaced by legos and *gasp* even some of our children have been introduced to the magic of the movie Star Wars for the first time. I have to admit that I cringe when I think about the all or nothing approach I took to incorporating Waldorf in our lives. So much time and money wasted trying to find the "perfect" natural toys for our boys. I wish I could go back and tell the mother that I was back then that it really.doesn't.matter. I would tell her to spend more time loving her children with hugs and kisses. Let them wander and explore more. Put much less emphasis on "stuff" and more on experiences. <br />
<br />
My boys are in public school now, and while it's not perfect.. it's pretty damn close. We are so very fortunate to go to a school where there is a passionate parent community that helps insure that arts and gardening are part of the curriculum for every child. We have made friends from all over the socioeconomic spectrum that we would not have made in private education or if I had homeschooled. We are doing the best for our kids within our means and honestly, I feel like we're doing more than OK.<br />
<br />
So what is the point of this post? I guess perhaps that it is time for me to disconnect from the Waldorf world... or what has been my paradigm of it these past few years. The acquisitive nature of collecting material things, the silent judgement of mothers whose children wear superhero t-shirts (yes, I have received the side-eye for that)... just the entire holier than thou crap you get when you come across the Mama In Fairyland. It's been said before, but it bears repeating. Being a parent is hard enough, no one should make it into a competition. <br />
<br />
Don't get me wrong, there are mothers out there who live and breathe Waldorf in such a genuine and heartfelt way, I wish everyone could experience it like that. Nicole of <a href="http://frontierdreams.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Frontier Dreams</a>, Cindy of <a href="http://zachaboard.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Zach Aboard</a>, Joy of <a href="http://www.anartfamily.com/" target="_blank">An Art Family</a>, Annie of<a href="http://imaginationinparenting.wordpress.com/" target="_blank"> Imagination in Parenting</a>, Renee of <a href="http://heirloomseasons.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Heirloom Seasons</a>... these are just a few of the women who are my friends and heroes with how they live their lives. (One of my favorite memories of Cindy is, under her screenname of BoatBaby, constantly yelling at us on mothering.com "It's NOT ABOUT THE TOYS!" :)). I am so grateful for their friendships and inspiration, as well as all the other mother bloggers who shared their lives and beautiful families in the blogging world. My beef about Waldorf is far from being about them. I just feel that for me, it's my time to let go and fully explore the world with my family under a different set of values. Letting the boys become who they are meant to be, taking the emphasis off of stereotypical societal achievement and guiding them to appreciate what is in themselves. It's probably not THAT different from the values of Waldorf education, but I think I am just ready to go without the label.<br />
<br />
I'm sending much love and gratitude out into the blogosphere for allowing me to process my thoughts and for always being a source of encouragement. This isn't a goodbye, but more a touching base with myself and for those who do share their time here with me.<br />
<br />
With Love and Light,<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Marina</i></span><br />
<br />Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04367316302196119165noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180418533341961195.post-28947631549815177482013-07-02T09:00:00.000-07:002013-07-03T08:57:18.926-07:00P52: Week 27/52- Summer, Night<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CNSHojEjdIA/UdJPr2Xsl-I/AAAAAAAACGo/aX5IvVY8FC4/s960/golden_gate2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CNSHojEjdIA/UdJPr2Xsl-I/AAAAAAAACGo/aX5IvVY8FC4/s960/golden_gate2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: grey; line-height: 15.987503051757813px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Next up is Sarah Maxey Photography from the Kansas City area. Sarah is an on-location, natural light photographer specializing in birth photography, lifestyle newborn photography and modern maternity, baby/child and family portraiture. Please <a href="http://www.sarahmaxeyphoto.com/blog/?p=1754" target="_blank">click here</a> to see her take on this week's theme.</span></span></div>
Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04367316302196119165noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180418533341961195.post-38305778327216470232013-06-25T09:00:00.000-07:002013-06-25T09:00:06.839-07:00P52: Week 26/52 Action, Sports<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H0CCJzOmjNM/Ucmi48oBs3I/AAAAAAAACGY/IugN69fv-IE/s1600/nico_Runs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H0CCJzOmjNM/Ucmi48oBs3I/AAAAAAAACGY/IugN69fv-IE/s400/nico_Runs.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 15.987503051757813px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Next up is Tricia Burrough of Lilac Blossom Photography. Tricia is a portrait photographer and freelance photojournalist based in Collingswood, NJ. Please<a href="http://wp.me/p2IX4k-pw" target="_blank"> click here</a> to see her take on this week's theme.</span></span>Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04367316302196119165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180418533341961195.post-22254266557709701152013-06-18T09:00:00.000-07:002013-06-18T09:00:05.928-07:00P52: Week 25/52- Action, Father<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ugJFtHDXH2g/Ub6Bl00cdPI/AAAAAAAACF0/qUt-9DSHf9s/s1600/IMG_5111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ugJFtHDXH2g/Ub6Bl00cdPI/AAAAAAAACF0/qUt-9DSHf9s/s320/IMG_5111.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Catch me Daddy!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6tiQ6Y4ZA8s/Ub6B2rIKpzI/AAAAAAAACF8/JYxIbIfQUrU/s1600/IMG_5114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6tiQ6Y4ZA8s/Ub6B2rIKpzI/AAAAAAAACF8/JYxIbIfQUrU/s320/IMG_5114.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Roshambo</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VJPAnGPdmh4/Ub6CFOLkJVI/AAAAAAAACGE/NnN0FbD7uUM/s1600/IMG_5113.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VJPAnGPdmh4/Ub6CFOLkJVI/AAAAAAAACGE/NnN0FbD7uUM/s320/IMG_5113.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My Beloved</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 15.987503051757813px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Next up is Lanie Coulter. Lanie is a natural light photographer that specializes in newborn, family, senior and wedding photography in the Chattanooga and North Georgia area. Please<a href="http://www.laniekay.com/?p=3430" target="_blank"> <u>click here</u> </a>to see her take on this week's theme.</span></span></div>
Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04367316302196119165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180418533341961195.post-59964002504017091292013-06-11T09:00:00.000-07:002013-06-11T09:00:01.127-07:00P52: Week 24/52- Action, Motion<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JV1pR48UtcU/UbcpjGvoXgI/AAAAAAAACFk/ryLF5QcUQg8/s1600/L45A5892+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JV1pR48UtcU/UbcpjGvoXgI/AAAAAAAACFk/ryLF5QcUQg8/s640/L45A5892+copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Next up is my dear friend and mentor, </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.987503051757813px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jen Dunham of Jen Dunham Photography</span><strong style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.987503051757813px; white-space: pre-wrap;">. </strong><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.987503051757813px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jen specializes in creating artistic newborn portraits for her clients and is located in the San Francisco Bay Area. Please <u>click here</u> to see her take on this week's theme.</span><br />
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: grey; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11.20000171661377px; line-height: 15.987503051757813px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04367316302196119165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180418533341961195.post-15151570568194116452013-06-04T09:00:00.000-07:002013-06-04T09:00:02.989-07:00P52: Week 23/52 Action, Freeze<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Q1QpkHlKbg/Ua1BSVUUwwI/AAAAAAAACFU/sRqIzFmmY3k/s1600/action_freeze.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Q1QpkHlKbg/Ua1BSVUUwwI/AAAAAAAACFU/sRqIzFmmY3k/s640/action_freeze.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 15.987503051757813px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Next up is Andrea Orozco of Drea Lyn Photography. Andrea is an on location, natural light photographer specializing in children, seniors and couples from the California Bay Area. Please <u><a href="http://www.drealynphotography.com/?p=844" target="_blank">click here </a></u>to see her take on this week's theme.</span></span>Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04367316302196119165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180418533341961195.post-59372114202942046522013-05-28T09:15:00.002-07:002013-05-28T09:15:52.271-07:00P52: Week 22/52 Children, Playtime<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zvDM_Fm4XOc/UaTVDVpX6hI/AAAAAAAACFE/2oyJNXPSK-w/s1600/children_playtime.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zvDM_Fm4XOc/UaTVDVpX6hI/AAAAAAAACFE/2oyJNXPSK-w/s640/children_playtime.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
My oldest boy, so rich in imagination. With homework taking up so much of his time afterschool, it warms my heart to see him use his playtime to return to what he loves best... sharing his ephemoral worlds in a form where we can all see them, in this case his chalkboard.<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 15.987503051757813px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Next up is Megan Lee of Amber Decadence Photography. Megan is a natural light, modern lifestyle and portrait photographer specializing in children and families. Amber Decadence Photography is based in Singapore. Please <a href="http://www.amberdecadence.com/?p=553" target="_blank">click here</a> to see her take on this week's theme. </span></span>Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04367316302196119165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180418533341961195.post-11932873688849799252013-05-21T09:00:00.000-07:002013-05-21T09:00:09.103-07:00P52: Week 21/52 Children- Serious, Meltdowns <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oRf78mtCiYY/UZrk4ZBT6AI/AAAAAAAACE0/UlxAV0CEO7Y/s1600/children_serious.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oRf78mtCiYY/UZrk4ZBT6AI/AAAAAAAACE0/UlxAV0CEO7Y/s640/children_serious.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
My sweet Bean. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
At four years old, so sensitive.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So worshiping of his older brothers, that any small slight or perceived insult will send him to curl up inside himself where he feels safe.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I love this boy so much. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Grateful that he knows how to find comfort inside of himself. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hoping that he learns what strength resides there as well.</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 15.987503051757813px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Next up is Sarah Maxey Photography from the Kansas City area. Sarah is an on-location, natural light photographer specializing in birth photography, lifestyle newborn photography and modern maternity, baby/child and family portraiture. Please <u><a href="http://www.sarahmaxeyphoto.com/blog/?p=1589" target="_blank">click here</a></u> to see her take on this week's theme.</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04367316302196119165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180418533341961195.post-80694314317957409732013-05-14T09:00:00.000-07:002013-05-14T09:00:10.708-07:00PS52: Week 20/52 Children, Mother<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4DbEu-Gk_Ds/UZIyBTxbL-I/AAAAAAAACEk/yoki5YeH0Ww/s1600/IMG_0273+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4DbEu-Gk_Ds/UZIyBTxbL-I/AAAAAAAACEk/yoki5YeH0Ww/s640/IMG_0273+copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: grey; line-height: 15.987503051757813px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Next up is Tricia Burrough of Lilac Blossom Photography. Tricia is a portrait photographer and freelance photojournalist based in Collingswood, NJ. Please <a href="http://wp.me/p2IX4k-oS" target="_blank">click here</a> to see her take on this week's theme.</span></span>Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04367316302196119165noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180418533341961195.post-43027932016286185392013-05-07T09:00:00.000-07:002013-05-07T09:00:02.754-07:00PS52: Week 19/52 Children, Laughter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bx3dMvyebds/UYhnhxFujWI/AAAAAAAACDc/7GH0N95eZic/s1600/Daddy_In_Control.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bx3dMvyebds/UYhnhxFujWI/AAAAAAAACDc/7GH0N95eZic/s640/Daddy_In_Control.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
The theme this week is children laughing. I will tell you now that my boys are being monsters and I am choosing to punk out by using an old photo than trying to capture a moment of fake hilarity. <br />
<br />
There are simply not enough chocolate chips to use as bribery to get them to laugh and not enough vodka to make me want to do it.<br />
<br />
Apologies with promises to get a more recent and sincere photo of laughter in the near future.<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 15.987503051757813px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Next up is the immensely talented Lanie Coulter. Lanie is a natural light photographer that specializes in newborn, family, senior and wedding photography in the Chattanooga and North Georgia area. Please <a href="http://www.laniekay.com/?p=2856" target="_blank">click here </a>to see her take on this week's theme.</span></span><br />
<br />
<br />Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04367316302196119165noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180418533341961195.post-20565451542584452062013-04-30T09:00:00.000-07:002013-04-30T09:00:08.324-07:00PS52: Week 18/52- Spring Self-Portrait<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-diyLvTXgi6g/UX73N7_YJgI/AAAAAAAACC8/Dk4Lh0PPCGg/s1600/Spring_selfie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-diyLvTXgi6g/UX73N7_YJgI/AAAAAAAACC8/Dk4Lh0PPCGg/s640/Spring_selfie.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The theme this week is self portrait. This past weekend I ran the Big Sur International Marathon. Though I had run it last year, it was still the hardest race I've ever completed. Having said that, I know that I will return. If you are going to find out what you're made of, there is no place as beautiful or as challenging as the California Coast to test you. <br />
<br />
Here I am, letting my poor battered feet soak in the Pacific ocean with my hard earned medal.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 15.987503051757813px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Next up is my dear friend and mentor, Jen Dunham of Jen Dunham Photography</span><strong style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 15.987503051757813px; white-space: pre-wrap;">. </strong><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 15.987503051757813px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jen specializes in creating artistic newborn portraits for her clients and is located in the San Francisco Bay Area. Please <a href="http://jendunham.blogspot.com/2013/04/p52-week-1752-spring-self-portrait.html" target="_blank"><u>click her</u>e</a> to see her take on this week's theme. </span></span>Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04367316302196119165noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180418533341961195.post-4246008251205420762013-04-23T09:00:00.000-07:002013-04-23T09:00:08.799-07:00P52: Week 17/52- Spring, Macro<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c0ItJRd2xr4/UXXlr1ZERrI/AAAAAAAACCs/7-CUPN4xugs/s1600/Spring_Macro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c0ItJRd2xr4/UXXlr1ZERrI/AAAAAAAACCs/7-CUPN4xugs/s640/Spring_Macro.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Watering the kale</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 15.987503051757813px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Next up is Andrea Orozco of Drea Lyn Photography. Andrea is an on location, natural light photographer specializing in children, seniors and couples from the California Bay Area. Please <a href="http://www.drealynphotography.com/?p=762" target="_blank"><u>click here</u> </a>to see her take on this week's theme.</span></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 15.987503051757813px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<br /></div>
Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04367316302196119165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180418533341961195.post-80340930797353560592013-04-16T09:00:00.000-07:002013-04-16T09:00:09.197-07:00P52: Week 16/52- Spring, Landscape... For Boston<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sj4oaJnXCp0/UW0vQ5jXCXI/AAAAAAAACCU/fTR98QK4S0I/s1600/Spring_landscape.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sj4oaJnXCp0/UW0vQ5jXCXI/AAAAAAAACCU/fTR98QK4S0I/s640/Spring_landscape.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
It is here at Inspiration Point where you will find me running most Sunday mornings. I have to admit that while the landscape is beautiful here, I had never found it all that inspiring. High up in the Berkeley Hills, the wind will push against you, making all the effort you put into moving forward feel fruitless. The hills are relentless and with few people who run that trail, it can sometimes feel desolate. <br />
<br />
But as I spend more time up here, I've come to love the solitude. The running has become easier and there is more room in my head to think about things other than the pain and effort. I dream and think about the places running has taken me and where it will lead me.... and yes, I'd come to believe that running the Boston Marathon (with a lot of work and discipline that could take years) could actually become a reality. <br />
<br />
I'm still holding onto that dream, despite the tragedy that happened yesterday. If truth be told, it makes me want it more. My heart feels broken, but my spirit is not.<br />
<br />
My thoughts and prayers go to those in Boston and runners everywhere...<br />
<br />
<i><br /></i>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 16px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>*Next up is Megan Lee of Amber Decadence Photography. Megan is a natural light, modern lifestyle and portrait photographer specializing in children and families. Amber Decadence Photography is based in Singapore. Please <a href="http://www.amberdecadence.com/?p=481" target="_blank">click here</a> to see her take on this week's theme</i></span></span><br />
<br />
<br />Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04367316302196119165noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180418533341961195.post-58565719769981636502013-04-09T09:00:00.000-07:002013-04-09T09:00:00.750-07:00P52: Week 15/52- Spring, Portraits<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sV5Z0Fsnt54/UWNyB0koF9I/AAAAAAAACCE/5nTxkHBIaxk/s1600/Spring_portrait.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sV5Z0Fsnt54/UWNyB0koF9I/AAAAAAAACCE/5nTxkHBIaxk/s640/Spring_portrait.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
My Beloved</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: grey; line-height: 16px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Next up is Sarah Maxey Photography from the Kansas City area. The wonderful Sarah is an on-location, natural light photographer specializing in birth photography, lifestyle newborn photography and modern maternity, baby/child and family portraiture. Please <a href="http://www.sarahmaxeyphoto.com/blog/?p=1491" target="_blank">click here </a>to see her take on this week's theme</span></span></div>
Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04367316302196119165noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180418533341961195.post-69820475665230314302013-04-02T09:00:00.000-07:002013-04-02T09:00:03.625-07:00P52: Week 14/52- Spring, Color<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RMNL1v031u0/UVpYwwyL6VI/AAAAAAAACB0/qNjOA5jGdY0/s1600/Spring_color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RMNL1v031u0/UVpYwwyL6VI/AAAAAAAACB0/qNjOA5jGdY0/s640/Spring_color.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I really don't have much of a green thumb, so I was surprised to see these pansies pop up after dying a slow death last summer. Rain this past weekend, warm temperatures following. I guess that is the ideal climate for these little pops of color to emerge. Spring has sprung, indeed :)<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; padding: 0px;">
</div>
<div style="color: grey; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11.199999809265137px; line-height: 16px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<strong>TRICIA BURROUGH</strong></div>
<div style="color: grey; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11.199999809265137px; line-height: 16px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
Next up is Tricia Burrough of Lilac Blossom Photography. Tricia is a portrait photographer and freelance photojournalist based in Collingswood, NJ. Please<a href="http://wp.me/p2IX4k-ny" target="_blank"> <u>click here</u></a> to see her take on this week's theme.</div>
<br />Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04367316302196119165noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180418533341961195.post-65998443436446291842013-03-26T09:00:00.000-07:002013-04-01T21:09:42.118-07:00P52: Week 13/52- Macro, Flowers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0DS00qOfK68/UVEUgLQ8FiI/AAAAAAAACBk/-6mncBFMoBw/s1600/macro_flower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0DS00qOfK68/UVEUgLQ8FiI/AAAAAAAACBk/-6mncBFMoBw/s640/macro_flower.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Ahhh, the last week of shooting macro. I had every intention of renting a macro lens and then life (and marathon training) got ahead of me and I ended up shooting with the 50mm this entire month. I think this was a good exercise though and I think a macro lens will be the next addition (when funds permit) to my camera bag. Thanks for joining me this month as I played with with seeing the world up close.<br />
<br />
<br />
* Next up is Lanie Coulter. Lanie specializes in newborn, family, senior and wedding photography in the Chattanooga and North Georgia area. Please <u><a href="http://www.laniekay.com/?p=2589" target="_blank">click here</a></u> to see her take on this week's themeMarinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04367316302196119165noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180418533341961195.post-64801203681246175152013-03-19T09:00:00.000-07:002013-03-19T09:00:03.053-07:00P52: Week 12/52- Macro, Bugs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5kFtsDLRjzo/UUfLMZG9wsI/AAAAAAAACBU/neV4cs_e-ao/s1600/macro_bug.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5kFtsDLRjzo/UUfLMZG9wsI/AAAAAAAACBU/neV4cs_e-ao/s640/macro_bug.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Sigh... blur. Still shooting with the 50mm lens for lack of a macro. Though I wished this was sharper, I am still charmed by the color and almost "paint-like" look to it.<br />
<br />
* Next up is my dear friend and mentor, Jen Dunham of Jen Dunham Photography<strong>. </strong>Jen specializes in creating artistic newborn portraits for her clients and is located in the San Francisco Bay Area. Please <a href="http://jendunham.blogspot.com/2013/03/p52-week-1152-macro-bugs.html" target="_blank">click here</a> to see her take on this week's theme.<br />
<br />
<br />Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04367316302196119165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180418533341961195.post-22896656185258580992013-03-12T09:00:00.000-07:002013-03-18T19:23:17.188-07:00P52: Week 11/52- Macro, Color<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DeVF0Onpiw0/UT88EqRi8iI/AAAAAAAACBE/1GcrKbwHy6c/s1600/macro_color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DeVF0Onpiw0/UT88EqRi8iI/AAAAAAAACBE/1GcrKbwHy6c/s640/macro_color.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Next up is Andrea Orozco of Drea Lyn Photography. Andrea is an on location, natural light photographer specializing in children, seniors and couples from the California Bay Area. <br />
Please <a href="http://www.drealynphotography.com/?p=677" target="_blank">click here </a>to see her take on this week's theme.Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04367316302196119165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180418533341961195.post-63933445591111631532013-03-05T09:00:00.000-08:002013-03-05T09:00:08.122-08:00P52: Week 10/52- Macro, General<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iOd930UngL4/UTVljczQxQI/AAAAAAAACA0/qLW92PWUP0Y/s1600/macro_thorns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iOd930UngL4/UTVljczQxQI/AAAAAAAACA0/qLW92PWUP0Y/s640/macro_thorns.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
This week's theme focused on shooting macro, or close-up. I was without a macro lens and at my husband's suggestion, tried using a 70-200mm f/2.8 lens with an extension tube. It was difficult to say the least, the weight of the camera with the enormous lens made it impossible to hold it steady for a good shot! So I went back to my tried and true 50mm f/1.4. A friend of mine sent along some suggestions and helpful article about shooting macro. As this is the theme for the month, I thank you for joining me as I learn more about shooting up close :).<br />
<br />
* Next up is Megan Lee of Amber Decadence Photography. Megan is a natural light, modern lifestyle and portrait photographer specializing in children and families. Amber Decadence Photography is based in Singapore. Please <u><a href="http://www.amberdecadence.com/?p=435" target="_blank">click here</a></u> to see her take on this week's theme.<br />
<br />
<br />Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04367316302196119165noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180418533341961195.post-45916991269733802362013-02-26T09:00:00.000-08:002013-02-26T09:00:08.308-08:00P52: Week 9/52- Shadows... Black and White<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uGbuicQxsQs/USxH3qgfoiI/AAAAAAAACAk/nx3a8CK9RMk/s1600/luca_shadow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uGbuicQxsQs/USxH3qgfoiI/AAAAAAAACAk/nx3a8CK9RMk/s640/luca_shadow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
My exuberant little one</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
* Next up is Sarah Maxey Photography from the Kansas City area. Sarah is an on-location, natural light photographer specializing in birth photography, lifestyle newborn photography and modern maternity, baby/child and family portraiture. Please <a href="http://www.sarahmaxeyphoto.com/blog/?p=1440" target="_blank">click here</a> to see her take on this week's theme</div>
Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04367316302196119165noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180418533341961195.post-57604944208441141602013-02-19T09:00:00.000-08:002013-02-19T09:00:05.977-08:00P52: Week 8/52- Shadows, People<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A2qmtb9slbI/USL30bG8sZI/AAAAAAAACAU/a0-H4uJnM_g/s1600/shadows_people.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A2qmtb9slbI/USL30bG8sZI/AAAAAAAACAU/a0-H4uJnM_g/s640/shadows_people.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Brotherly Love</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
**Next up is Tricia Burrough of Lilac Blossom Photography. Tricia is a wonderful portrait photographer and freelance photojournalist based in Collingswood, NJ. Please <a href="http://wp.me/p2IX4k-lo" target="_blank">click here</a> to see her lovely take on this week's theme.Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04367316302196119165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180418533341961195.post-49720668991113162972013-02-12T09:00:00.000-08:002013-02-12T09:00:01.257-08:00P52: Week 7/52- Shadows Architecture<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qNbdafkvikM/URmthPsJIOI/AAAAAAAACAA/8s3l55a5Sjc/s1600/shadows_arch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qNbdafkvikM/URmthPsJIOI/AAAAAAAACAA/8s3l55a5Sjc/s640/shadows_arch.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Mills Building, San Francisco</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;"> Mostly bathed in morning light, I was struck by the bright columns and the recesses of windows hidden by the shadows in this glorious building in San Francisco's Financial District. I had taken a few architecture courses in college and fell in love with the Chicago School of Architecture. It seemed serendipitous that my favorite architect from that time, Daniel Burnham also designed a building so close to my California home.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
* Next up is Lanie Coulter. Lanie is a natural light photographer that specializes in newborn, family, senior and wedding photography in the Chattanooga and North Georgia area. Please <a href="http://www.laniekay.com/?p=2273" target="_blank">click here</a> to see her take on this week's theme.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div>
Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04367316302196119165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180418533341961195.post-8791074072949841952013-02-05T09:00:00.000-08:002013-02-05T09:14:05.671-08:00P52: Week 6/52- Shadows <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cr4XtCWZZgY/URBVX11btII/AAAAAAAAB_w/HgP3Hqxql1w/s1600/shadows1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cr4XtCWZZgY/URBVX11btII/AAAAAAAAB_w/HgP3Hqxql1w/s640/shadows1.jpg" width="528" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
My little boys love playing monsters :)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Next up is one of my dearest friends and mentor, Jen Dunham of Jen Dunham Photography<strong>. </strong>Jen specializes in creating artistic newborn portraits for her clients and is located in the San Francisco Bay Area. Please <a href="http://jendunham.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> to see her take on this week's theme.</div>
Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04367316302196119165noreply@blogger.com1