these little wonders

a couple of updates...

2009-04-28T23:46:00.000-07:00

First and MOST IMPORTANT! I have a new blog now...I'm so excited! I will be combining my business and personal blog from now on...c'mon over and check it out...www.laureencarruthersphotography.com/blog - leave me some blog love!

And...I made the TOP 10 in that canvas contest...voting goes until Sunday. If you're so inclined, please come and vote here...
http://mcpactions.com/blog/

You have to scroll down - it's the post just below the seniors location post. Thanks! See you at the new blog...

laureen

a big canvas?

2009-04-16T09:54:00.003-07:00

“I am entering this photo in the MCP Actions/Color Inc. Win a Gallery Wrap Canvas Photo Contest at http://mcpactions.com/blog. I certify that I took this photo and give both parties permission to use this photograph on their blogs/sites.”

aww...baby Holly!

2009-04-02T16:40:00.001-07:00

My wonderful friend Tabitha was in town for a few days, and I got to meet her gorgeous baby girl for the first time! Talk about an adorable baby (we expected no less!). There is nothing like the comfortable feeling you get when spending time with old friends...it doesn't matter if it's been a week or a year (or five...) since you last saw them...it feels like you just saw each other yesterday. Can't wait until you relocate Tab, so I can see you way more often!

Getting Big!

2009-04-01T20:48:00.001-07:00

OMG - they are just the cutest things ever! We're all a bit in love with them...but the plan is still to take them all back to the SPCA for adoption in a few weeks...we'll see!

Mouse...has the sweetest eyes...

This is Meatball...

Tucker meeting Findlay for the first time...

Happy Birthday Baby Boy!

2009-03-30T16:18:00.001-07:00

My baby is 8! Where does the time go...and how can my G be eight already? Happy Birthday baby boy...I love you so much!

Here Kitty Kitty Kitty!!!

2009-03-21T21:21:00.000-07:00

we're a foster family...for six kittens and their mom! The SPCA is often looking for families to foster animals, so we thought it would be a fun experience! I would like to see myself still not owning a cat when we're done with this...but, can't make any promises...they're awfully adorable!

this is Findlay...I think he's the cutest!

For Griff!

2009-03-05T20:55:00.001-08:00

Wow...I feel so bad being here without Griffin...look what is right outside my hotel window???? Griff, I promise I'll buy you soemthing cool!!

I could not ask for more...

2009-03-02T23:39:00.000-08:00

as the photographer in the family...I don't often get in on the shots...which bothers me sometimes, as my boys are so precious to me...and I'd love to have some of our moments captured...we had a great time at Sun Peaks this weekend, and I asked Brian to grab Parker's camera and take our picture. When I looked at it...the words to one of my favorite songs came immediately to mind - it's SO how I feel about my boys...

I could not ask for more than this time together
I could not ask for more than this time with you
And every prayer has been answered
Every dream I've had's come true
Yeah, right here in this moment
Is right where I'm meant to be
Here with you here with me

some serious fun!

2009-02-28T22:06:00.001-08:00

We're all hanging out this weekend at Sun Peaks...Brian's dad is here, as well as my parents & my bro...the boys are loving every minute of it!

Tucker

2009-02-26T22:51:00.001-08:00

It's LIVE!!!

2009-02-16T18:34:00.001-08:00

Finally, I'm so excited to share my brand new website! Still working out a few details, one of them is that on the splash (front) page, you have to scroll down to get to the "enter site" button. I've been working on this since early January - it's the first time I've ever worked on my own website...and I'm kind of proud of it! So please, check it out, and come back often. And...keep watching, there may be something else new coming soon as well...

laureencarruthersphotography.com

It's been awhile...

2009-02-09T14:55:00.001-08:00

not that I haven't been taking photos...just too lazy to upload them here! Had a fun day with some friends at the cabin yesterday...it was a perfect winter day, hanging out, gt racing, smokies by the fire, ice fishing...all cozy and warm and tired out on the drive home - the stuff memories are made of!

my main squeeze...

2009-01-24T21:07:00.001-08:00

aww...I just love him so much!

blog blocked...

2009-01-22T10:28:00.000-08:00

I think it must be the winter blues - I just feel so blog challenged lately! Everytime I think about sitting down and doing a blog post...I instantly try and come up with ten different things to do. So, forgive me for being so lazy...hopefully, I'll get motivated soon! For now, here's a few pictures of B and I hanging out on Sunday with G & Tucker...it was one of those textbook perfect winter afternoons...

aquatics for arthritis

2009-01-09T22:16:00.000-08:00

my boys are were all in a really neat fundraiser tonight called Aquatics for Arthritis...our club is hoping to raise $10 000.00 towards arthritis research (considering we have less than 50 kids...this is a pretty big goal!). We're over halfway there, and have two weeks left to collect pledges. It was similar to a mini swim meet, and it was G's first time competing. You can see in the photos...he's a little uncertain! Keaton and Parker did a race together (where they're diving)...they had to swim 100 metres holding hands, and taking as few breaths as possible. K swam halfway across the pool before coming up for air - and P kept coming up. I was confused, until P told me after that he couldn't stop laughing no matter how hard he tried!

If you'd like to pledge the boys - please let me know!

New Years Day...

2009-01-02T10:14:00.000-08:00

I LOVE watching the Polar Bear Swim...it's such a crazy event...

This year was almost balmy, so not quite as wild as some of the previous years...but still, there's NO chance you'd catch me jumping through a hole in the ice!

Christmas Day Fun

2008-12-27T00:25:00.001-08:00

Christmas was really different this year - the weather across the province was so bad - that for the first time ever, my big bro didn't make it home for Christmas. As much as we all missed him, we were glad to know that he too was safe and sound at home, and not driving during such bad road conditions. Thank God the skies cleared, and Christmas Day was bright and beautiful. We got a chance to go out for a bit of a walk, and take our very housebound lab out for a run as well - he HATES this cold weather! Hope you all stayed safe and warm too...

cold & crisp!

2008-12-15T12:25:00.000-08:00

omg - it is COLD outside! So...what could be better than bundling up as warm as possible and heading out for some fun? This is what our family did yesterday...the kids had a blast, and the only reason we decided to come home, is that we were worrying about poor Tucker's paws!

rock & roll boys!

2008-12-12T10:22:00.001-08:00

I've wanted to get a shot like this of my boys forever...the only thing that would've been better would be for Parker to be playing the piano - but that would be a little harder to execute!

Sorry to the BC Rail worker who got mad at us - I do understand you take your job seriously...and I appreciate that!

my other baby...

2008-12-09T15:48:00.001-08:00

ahh...isn't he precious?

two of a kind...

2008-11-20T00:01:00.001-08:00

these two little buddies are so much alike it's almost freaky...thank God they live across the street from each other, and can play together pretty much daily!!!

a few weeks back...

2008-11-16T15:44:00.001-08:00

My dad turned 70 this year, so we had a nice family birthday party for him...it was great! The boys favorite (only!) uncle came home for the weekend, and we spent all day Sunday out at our cabin, enjoying the great fall weather!

all boy!

2008-11-12T18:09:00.001-08:00

the boys had just a bit too much fun today! We went for a hike in the dairyfields, and somehow, came upon a very muddy pond. One thing lead to another...and suddenly, they were in up to their knees! At one point, Parker had to dig his shoe out of about half a foot of mud! Needless to say, they were filthy...but on the way home, I was told I was the best mom ever...so, the laundry and the mud in my van are SO completely worth it! Thanks for hanging out with us Shannon, Logan & Corb...maybe next time, you can play in the mud too!

Happy Birthday Sweetie...

2008-11-01T18:51:00.001-07:00

Wow...how is it you're suddenly 10 years old? Where has the time gone...

You bring SO much joy to my life everyday...you are such a kind and caring boy. I hope you have a wonderful birthday, and a great year...I love you so much...

Happy Halloween!!!

2008-10-31T10:19:00.000-07:00

Storytime...

2008-10-29T22:24:00.001-07:00

so, Tucker is so used to the boys sitting on the couch and reading to us at night - that tonight, when the routine changed, and I took the boys to the movie...he was a little put out! As soon as we got home, he went running to the table...nudged the book off with his nose, and as soon as Keats picked it up, he hopped on the couch and waited for the story! He's such a great dog, I just can't get over it sometimes...

(PS - this is actually from last week...I'm a slow blogger lately!)

you say it's your birthday...

2008-10-16T23:37:00.000-07:00

yep, it's my dad's 70th birthday today - wow! I can't believe he's 70...doesn't he look great! We'll have a great party next weekend when my brother can make it home...so for tonight...it was just grandpa and his boys...perfection really!

one of these things is not like the other...

2008-10-05T20:08:00.000-07:00

yep - Griff is so different from his brothers! He loves everything about being outdoors. Spending time with Grandpa is about as good as it get! Thank God there's someone in our family who fishes and hunts - otherwise, I think Griff would run away from home! On my first day of allowing him to go hunting (I live in a constant state of worry)...he and Grandpa came across FOUR black bears! I am SO glad I didn't hear this until I went to pick them up...they were both pretty excited. He's also turning into a master fly fisherman...all of his practice obviously paid off!

forever friends...

2008-10-02T21:29:00.000-07:00

well...almost anyways! Shannon and I share over 27 years of friendship...how can that be? Aren't we still like 20 something? Anyways, we now get to watch our boys develop a great friendship as well...which is so awesome!

Thanks for being my crazy fun friend...

“If you live to be 100, I hope I live to be 100 minus 1 day, so I never have to live without you.”

PLEASE VOTE!!!

2008-10-01T09:40:00.001-07:00

I've entered a REALLY cool photo contest, that I'd LOVE to win...if you wouldn't mind throwing a vote my way (and telling ALL your friends!)...go here and vote for #0123...

Thanks!

missing australia...

2008-09-19T22:50:00.001-07:00

Just having a look through some of the 4000 photos I took on our trip to Australia this summer...and wishing we were back there, hanging out on some amazing beach with the Mallyons. We miss you guys...

one of my favorite subjects...

2008-09-14T12:31:00.000-07:00

of course, I have three! Griff is usually the most game to have his photo taken though...and today, he actually asked me if I'd come outside and take his photos...umm...yes!!!

slipping through my fingers...

2008-09-02T22:56:00.000-07:00

When I saw Mamma Mia (twice!) this summer...I fell in love with the lyrics to this song - I must have missed it when it was an Abba song. I know it's written about a little girl, but I changed the she's to he's, and thought I'd post the lyrics with my boys "off to school" photo.

It's a melancholy day for me today...first day of school - nobody wanted me to walk them...and Parker's 12th birthday...just feeling like the time is flying by...

Slipping Through My Fingers...

Slipping through my fingers all the time
I try to capture every minute
The feeling in it
Slipping through my fingers all the time
Do I really see whats in his mind
Each time I think Im close to knowing
He keeps on growing
Slipping through my fingers all the time

Sometimes I wish that I could freeze the picture
And save it from the funny tricks of time
Slipping through my fingers...

Slipping through my fingers all the time

Schoolbag in hand he leaves home in the early morning
Waving goodbye with an absent-minded smile...

he's 12!

2008-09-02T15:41:00.000-07:00

Wow...twelve years ago at this time...I was phoning everyone I could think of, and telling them all about my gorgeous new baby boy...we were so EXCITED!!! Fast forward...now he's 12. He brings such laughter to our lives - yes, A LOT of laughter...and he makes us proud daily! Happy Birthday Parker...hope your day is perfect!

soccer weekend...

2008-08-25T12:23:00.003-07:00

It was a wild and wet weekend of soccer...we didn't win any games, but the boys all had a lot of fun...and it was a great learning experience! Right boys???

more hanging out!

2008-08-21T13:47:00.000-07:00

Spent the other day hanging out around Farwell Canyon. There's so many fun things to do in this beautiful area that we live in! Found some local First Nations people who were getting ready for winter...smoking their fish and game. The kids all had a taste, and said it was the best smoked salmon they've ever had!
Also messing around with a little landscape photography - so not my thing...but it was still fun!

This first shot is edited with a cool new photoshop plug-in that I just bought called Topaz Adjust - what do you think?

where does the time go?

2008-08-17T19:09:00.001-07:00

Seriously, I'm sure it was just yesterday I made my last post...time is just flying by! Life is so busy in our house these days, there seems barely time to breathe!
Took yesterday to just totally hang out with the kids and have some much needed family time...and we had a blast! Even Tucker got in on the photos...

where I've been...

2008-08-06T22:41:00.000-07:00

wow...I'm not getting much blogging done these days! Since we got home from Australia, I've shot three weddings, and another one this friday. Right now, my friend Megan Cristello and her gorgeous girls are visiting from Florida. We've spent the last couple of days at the gorgeous Crystal Waters Ranch...where the kids all had WAY too much fun! Next week, I'm off to visit my girlfriend who's in Canada from England. So...if the blog is slightly neglected...I promise to get back on track in September!!!

more bubbles...

2008-07-24T11:49:00.000-07:00

what can I say - I'm on a bubble kick!

bubble boy

2008-07-18T22:42:00.003-07:00

Hey everyone...

all the bubble toys are 40% off at Zellers right now!!!

penny for your thoughts...

2008-07-18T22:41:00.001-07:00

Wouldn't it be wonderful if we could know what they're thinking about...

dance...

2008-07-13T18:41:00.001-07:00

some people move our SOULS to dance...

I found this quote today, and Brendan and Nicky instantly came to mind...

Thanks so much for the dance you guys - there just aren't words to describe how incredible our time was! In time, I'm sure we'll sit down and journal some of our thoughts, and greatest memories, top tens...many we've already discussed! But for today, with us all the way back across the world, for another few years anyways...we'll just embrace the moments we've shared over the last six weeks...with so much love and fondness towards you all. Thanks again, altho words really can't describe how special our time was.

a crazy ending to our trip??

2008-07-09T04:02:00.000-07:00

Well...we certainly weren't looking for any broken bones on this trip - but...that's what happens when you play footy with mom! Keats and I were playing around with the rugby ball today, and he caught one of my best kicks (at least the 2nd one I've ever done!!!)...and, we wound up in the local emergency room. The wild part is, we have to leave tomorrow morning at 6:00 am to see an orthopedist at a larger centre - as there's concern about the angle of his finger - it's not making sense in relation to the break. So...not how we'd planned to spend the last day of our Sydney journey...but, hopefully, all will be well, and the breaks (there's one for sure, and a possible 2nd...) will be healed up before fiddle camp later this month!

The wildest part about this trip to the hospital, was meeting the radiologist above, who started coming to Canada to ski 20 years ago to Kimberly (where Brian is from), and now goes annually to Sun Peaks. It's SUCH a small world...

Sydney (and area...)

2008-07-04T14:50:00.001-07:00

We've just left Sydney, after three amazing days! What a beautiful & busy city it is! We barely scratched the surface, but saw lots of amazing stuff. Brian & Brendan did a bridge walk...had to wear special suits with safety harnesses, and spent three hours walking over the top of the arch of the Sydney Harbor Bridge - he said it was amazing! We also went to the final State of Origin Rugby League game - it was the final between Queensland and New South Wales - at the Olympic Stadium. Our (we're local's now!) Queenslander won 16 - 10...there were 79,000 people in attendance - WOW!

I did a fair amount of shopping...the shopping is amazing in Syndey. We also had dinner with our friends Allison and Steve and their son Marshall, who we met in Fiji. They took us to a revolving restaurant on the 47th floor of the Australian Centre. Words can't describe what an amazing experience it was!

We also got the chance to meet three amazing Sydney photographers - who then did some photos of us at and around the Opera House. This was such a fun experience...I'll post a couple of photos now, and have more to come. It was such a treat to meet these ladies and watch them work!

We then headed up to Orange, where today I'll be hanging out with my friend Renee, and doing family photos for them - and then we're off to the Dubbo Zoo. Lots more to come, with only a week left!

These first three shots were taken by the AMAZING Kelly Vella!

These three shots were taken by my friend Susan Roberts - aren't they GREAT?!

A Big Snodger!!

2008-06-29T03:38:00.000-07:00

At least that's what Brendan calls it!

A brilliant day in the open waters off the Gold Coast began with having two humpback whales surface within 50 feet of the boat, much to the delight of everybody on board (Brendan, Brian, Bill, Caleb & Griffin). Shortly after the excitement had died down, Brian hooked the first catch of the day, and was feeling pretty smug. It wasn't more than ten mintutes later, when Griffin's rod took a sharp curl towards the water and we all realized he had something significant on his line. With Brendan holding the rod, Griffin reeled for fifteen minutes, hauling in a 21 pound Amberjack. The squeals and cheers could be heard for miles...as Griffin realized just how big the fish actually was!

CRIKEY!!!

2008-06-29T03:22:00.000-07:00

Spent yesterday at the Australia Zoo...it was AMAZING! The boys were able to cuddle koala's, and pet kangaroo's. It was the best day!

We went to the Wildlife Warriors Show, and there was an intro done by Steve Irwin on the large screen...it was so sad - I was totally teary-eyed. From what I saw though, his legend is living on...

Off Again!

2008-06-27T15:24:00.000-07:00

it's after midnight...and I'm sitting out on the deck, listening to the waves crashing - and feeling very sad that we have to leave in the morning. We've spent three nights in Noosa Heads, and this is one place we'll all have fantastic memories of. Brendan and Nick taught the boys to body surf on surf mats - and they've all just loved it (including the wipeouts!). Mom and dad will be heading home in a few days, which is very sad, as we've had the most wonderful time together.

And the sunsets...just wow!

Might be gone again for a few days, as I have no idea where I'll find wireless again (another great thing about Noosa Heads!)

We're BAAAACK!

2008-06-25T02:09:00.001-07:00

Wow - wireless internet is VERY hard to find in Australia...so, forgive me for the long time between posts!

okay, so...we've been hanging out at a place called Agnes Waters for four nights, a tiny little place, with the most gorgeous beaches ever! We spent the 24th on Lady Musgrove Island, doing a boat charter tour to snorkel the reef. It was stunning...altho the boat ride out took it's toll on Parker, who convinced he'd never get seasick, started out the very rocky boatride reading his book. Shortly after that...MAJOR seasick! He was very happy to finally get off the boat!

The boys are also really getting into rugby, but, are obviously no match for Brendan as of yet!

Here's a bunch of random shots - mostly just us having fun!!!

Hanging Out!

2008-06-17T04:04:00.001-07:00

Just hung out today, , which was wonderful and relaxing. Griff is LOVING the fishing - and as you can see, he's doing really well. Also, he's working on his photography skills - and even used back button focus for the shot he took of me. I'm glad, as I've taken over 1000 photos so far, and I think I might be in three of them!

The first shot is a soldier crab - they're SO cool. I took this with my 24-70...turned out pretty decent! And the 4th shot - you aussie's grow some WILD looking things!

Fraser Island...

2008-06-16T04:10:00.001-07:00

Spent another FULL day today, with Brendan as a tour guide - I'll be needing a vacation to rest up when we get home...

Today our first stop was a place called Lake McKenzie...a STUNNING lake inland on the island. We had a blast there - the water was so gorgeous. LOVE the shot of my 69 year old dad - first time he's worn his swim trunks in years - and the aussie dude checking him out!

Then we went to an area called central station, where we had a sausage sizzle (aussie hotdogs!!)...and went on an incredible hike through a tropical rainforest/jungle. The wild looking tree is a gum tree, with a strangler fig which is a parasite that grows over the host tree and envelops them and eventually kills the host tree - it's WILD looking!

Also found this great dingo cache to lock the kids in when they get out of hand!

Off for more adventure tomorrow...

I'm a BAD blogger!

2008-06-15T03:49:00.000-07:00

Wow...I can't believe it's been so long since I've updated. It's so hard to find connections here. We're now at a spectacular place called Kingfisher Resort, located on Fraser Island. We'll stay here for the next six nights.

Last week, we spent a full day at Sea World, which was AMAZING...and also did some touristy things such as hanging out at Surfer's Paradise, eating at the Hard Rock Cafe...all that fun stuff!

So far we've seen koala's, kangaroos, cockatoos, platypus, wallaby's, and a dingo - all in the wild! According to Brendan, this is NOT the norm!

The boys are missing home a bit...but mom and dad are here now, so that helps a bit. Anyways - only have internet for an hour...so better post some photos!

so much fun!

2008-06-10T06:46:00.000-07:00

Well, we continue to pack more into a day than I could ever believe possible! Here's our update of what we've been doing...last night, the boys went to a rugby league game - and loved it! Tomorrow night, Brendan managed to swing tickets for the State of Origin game - which I'm hearing is a pretty big deal? Anyways - he and Brian seem quite happy about it!

The family shot of us is just so us! Even though my hair's a disaster...I'm still really loving this shot - it will be blown up for home (not huge, but will have it somewhere!).

The frozen cokes are wonderful - we don't have these in Canada! And - when in Australia, you must have a tailgate picnic on the back of a ute...right???

PS - do you think Brian's settling well into holiday mode???

G'DAY!!!

2008-06-08T04:24:00.000-07:00

wow - we've been here for two days now...and haven't sat still for a moment! The first day was spent seeing the sights mostly from Brendan's boat. We spent some time sliding down sanddunes into the ocean (aussie tobaganning???), and then touring Surfer's Paradise by boat.

Today, we spent the day at Lamington National Park...went on a treetop walk (a series of suspension bridges and foot bridges), and then fed the parrots there. On the way home, we saw a platypus, and some black cockatoos...

Keaton had a crazy experience with a pelican (my favourite photo thus far!)...and tomorrow, we get to go to the marina at the Versace hotel, and go on a yacht...Brendan has a friend who's the captain, so we get a tour!!!

Australia is fantastic so far, and we're just getting started!

forever friends...

2008-06-04T21:28:00.000-07:00

wow - our time here in Fiji is ending far too soon. Meg and her family have been so AMAZING, and the kids have had so much fun. It's wonderful, how you can have met someone for such a short time, but know they'll be in your heart forever. I'm going to miss Meg and her family a lot - and I know the kids will too...hopefully, we'll meet again one day...

more Fiji...

2008-06-03T21:16:00.000-07:00

Wow - it's just gorgeous beyond words here. Parker and Keats had their first Padi dive lesson, and loved it. We didn't do the open water dive yet, but they told us if we come back for 7 nights in March, the dive program is 50% off...hmmm...there's some incentive!
The boys are wishing they could stay here longer...I'm thinking a return trip one day would not be out of the question. We met a guy this am from Vancouver - he's here diving, so it was nice to chat with him. Almost all the guests are from Australia or New Zealand...not many Canadians.
Having lots of troubles posting photos from here, as the internet is very slow - hopefully, it won't be an issue when we get to Australia...
Griff is making friends with the locals - see their great sandcastle!

Bula!

2008-06-02T15:32:00.000-07:00

Bula (hello!) from Fiji.

So - I think we've found the most beautiful place on earth. Fiji is absolutely stunning...it's just perfect. We're having a wonderful time, the boys are currently getting ready for their first ever scuba diving lesson, and later today, we'll take a boat out to a coral reef and spend the afternoon snorkelling. Parker suggested perhaps we should just stay here for the six weeks...I would LOVE to come back one day, and I know the rest of the family would totally agree.

hotel room fun!

2008-05-31T20:34:00.001-07:00

well, I don't let them jump on the beds at home...but hotel rooms are made for FUN! Brian disagreed though...

and they're off!

2008-05-30T22:28:00.000-07:00

It's become a family tradition, that whenever we go on a holiday, we always stop at A&W for breakfast before leaving town, and today was no exception...had Brian's dad snap the photo just before we drove away! Please forgive Parker - he promises not to look like this in anymore of my photos...

Had a quick stop at the Alexandra Bridge today - just for you Shan...

Adventures in the Gully!!!

2008-05-26T10:00:00.000-07:00

Finally got out on our first family mountain bike ride of the season...I LOVE IT! We were on this trail called hillbilly...which is supposed to be an beginner/intermediate trail. Well, it is, if you turn off halfway down, which we didn't know about. So, we ended up in a section called "the gully", which is for advanced riders only! OMG - it was so steep, and there were jumps everywhere. Griff slid down some areas on his butt, as it was almost too steep to walk your bike down. I was a bit nervous, but still enjoying my new bike! We were shocked when we met a guy at the bottom, who wondered what the hell we were doing taking our three kids down the gully!

make it go away...

2008-05-19T20:02:00.000-07:00

aww...my poor pooch was sick this weekend. The things you learn when you have a dog. Anyone ever heard of Cold Tail? Apparently, it's very common in labs...and poor Tuck had a bad case of it after a day in the lake! If you have a lab, check this out - it could save you some vet bills...

http://www.woodhavenlabs.com/coldtail.html

boys and mud...

2008-05-14T18:48:00.001-07:00

Ummm...I guess I shouldn't have watched Oprah..the boys were playing so nice & quite outside - I was just enjoying the peace and quiet...

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-11T18:36:00.000-07:00

I had the best day! We went for brunch with my mom and dad...and got some great presents from my boys. This was what Keaton made for me...a brand new camera! LOVE being their mom...

he was a sk8r boy...

2008-05-07T14:34:00.001-07:00

the newest "thing"!

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Only In Canada...

2008-05-05T05:48:00.001-07:00

Wow - ice fishing in MAY...craziness!
How bizarre though, that we could head out in the morning, and spend the day ice fishing...and drive back into town to change into our shorts to go play soccer...

my three sons...

2008-05-01T16:33:00.000-07:00

oh my - I just melt when I look into their eyes! I'm about to order a few new canvasses for my living room - and these photos are in the running - not sure of the one of the oldest though - don't think it's quite as sharp as the other two. Decisions, decisions!

Location Hunting...

2008-04-28T21:38:00.001-07:00

Had to go and check out the light for a location where I'll be doing an engagement shoot soon...so, packed up my little Abercrombie boy and had him do some posing for me...he's so GREAT to take on photo shoots! And all it cost me was a two scoop ice cream cone...well worth it!!!

Fun Contest...2nd Place!

2008-04-22T18:41:00.000-07:00

I heard about this photo contest, and the criteria was that you had to use an umbrella in the shot. In my head, I was pretty certain that boys and umbrellas don't go together nearly as well as girls and umbrellas, but decided to give it a try anyways, as i really wanted to enter the contest (the prize was an online photo course, that I was really interested in...). Anyways, to make a long story short...I came 2nd - and won $100.00 off the price of the course!

Here's a link to the great course I'll be taking!

http://thelightworkshop.wordpress.com/

You Say It's Your Birthday...

2008-04-06T14:20:00.000-07:00

Griff was THRILLED to have his birthday party at home with his friends this year, as last year we were away on holidays, and he felt a little ripped off just having a family party! It was a wild and crazy day, full of seven year old humour and giggles...but, all the boys were really great, and a good time was had by all...

When you get rained out...

2008-03-31T16:09:00.001-07:00

And all you really wanted to do was take some fun, funky outdoor photos - but, it's just too cold...GO TO SCIENCE WORLD!
(which is a lot more fun for the kids anyways!)

Spring Break...Day 1!

2008-03-23T12:55:00.000-07:00

and...we're off! Wow - in a six hour drive...we passed through a lot of weather! Keats wasn't feeling well - can you believe the snow by the outhouse? And - had to include a couple of Milestone's shots - as my favorite photogs ever...from the Image is Found - also had a stop in this Milestones, when I recommended it to them! Of course, they're shot was much better than mine...but I had to try!
So, woke up this am to torrential rain - but, it's now clearing, and we're hoping to get a walk in this afternoon...
Happy Easter!

my main squeeze...

2008-03-21T20:06:00.000-07:00

oooh...I could just eat him up sometimes - I love him so much I can hardly stand it!

Wide Open Spaces...

2008-03-20T15:53:00.001-07:00

don't know if it was me or them that needed to get out of the house more...
but - we all had fun! Went and bought a cheap kite...and it was good times all around!

abercrombie boy...

2008-03-15T14:39:00.000-07:00

Just my little poser...hanging out in the backyard today - helping dad do some spring cleaning. Wow - there's a lot of yard work that needs to be done - I'm so glad that's Brian's area of expertise!!!

Just Him!

2008-03-12T23:52:00.000-07:00

It seems Keaton is my #1 poser these days - maybe because he's the one with the most interest in photography as well? Love this shot - it's just so him...with his favorite ripped jeans!

Hey Megan...I FIGURED IT OUT!!!

uninspired blogger...

2008-03-05T10:03:00.000-08:00

Just haven't been feeling it lately...don't know why - but, am hoping I'll get my blogging mojo back soon - bear with me!

some serious fun...

2008-02-26T11:20:00.001-08:00

what better way to spend a day off school...than hanging out at the tube park? We all had WAY too much fun!!!

Happy Valentine's Day

2008-02-14T09:13:00.000-08:00

Just had to share my special loves! Here are the cards that Keaton and Griffin are giving out at school...and just a photo of my Parker, as this year, he's offically too cool to give out Valentines!

A year ago...

2008-02-04T23:39:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it's been a year...it still seems so real, and so raw. A year ago today, my friend Sheye lost her precious little girl Ava...a year ago today...how can it be.

Please, hug your babies tight today, tell those who matter to you how much you love them...don't take a single moment for granted...

My prayers are with you today Sheye and Crayton...and your beautiful super princess will NEVER be forgotten...

Keats & Mom's Photo Date...

2008-02-03T18:47:00.000-08:00

My middle son Keaton is getting more and more interested in phtoography, which is so exciting to me! Yesterday, he was needing a little one on one time, so we headed out (in -15 celsius weather), and had a photo date! We were going for a few different looks - and I feel like we totally achieved what we were trying to...and had a blast while we were doing it! We stopped for lunch, and then when we were all finished, headed to a funky little coffee shop for a hot chocolate and a latte...really, a perfect day!

The photo of me was taken by Keaton, with his Fuji point & shoot camera...he was so proud of himself!

laureen

Future Olympians...

2008-01-22T10:07:00.000-08:00

I'm just so proud of Parker & Keaton - they had their big swim meet on the weekend - and they did AMAZING! The both got best times in every single race they were in - and, in their age categories, have placings of first/second/and a few thirds in every race...they did very, very well! The meet was great - it made for some fun photo ops as well!

Some Winter Fun!

2008-01-01T21:45:00.001-08:00

We had a great day out at the cabin...kind of a winter picnic! Lots of friends, the most beautiful weather...EVER - it was perfect!

post Christmas fun...

2007-12-28T17:02:00.000-08:00

We seem to be spending alot of time outdoors! On Boxing Day, we went ice fishing in the Biffert's famous pond - the biggest fish caught (by Tori) was close to six and a half pounds! Then today, we spent some time out at our cabin, getting it ready for the big outdoor picnic we'll be having there tomorrow...

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-25T17:04:00.000-08:00

Well...I only sent my cards out yesterday - so, if you haven't got it yet - here's our Merry Christmas card to you! Hope you all have a fantastic day - and enjoy the special memories you're creating...

More Tree Hunting!

2007-12-16T23:10:00.000-08:00

Annual Christmas Tree Hunt!

2007-12-16T23:04:00.000-08:00

Every year, we go out with friends to chop down our Christmas tree, as well as enjoy some sliding fun - this year was better than most - because it was very warm!

We all had so much fun...and of course - some good photo ops!

a bunch of photos!

2007-12-12T17:38:00.001-08:00

I need to clean off my desktop - and keep meaning to post some of these shots. So - no story behind any of them...just some from our day to day life - which is way too busy these days! The last two of Brian and I are before his staff party last weekend - Parker did a pretty good job! Sad that we only get a photo of us together once a year - may have to work on that!

Baby it's cold outside...

2007-12-03T09:32:00.001-08:00

So, so cold! I believe it's about -24 today with the windchill - so, no sledding for us today. We had fun yesterday though...I swear the boys don't even feel the cold - notice Brian is absent in these shots - as he was sitting in the van with the heater on!

I'm so excited...have to share!

2007-11-28T15:40:00.000-08:00

There's an online website that holds a monthly photograhy contest. I've been a member for quite awhile, and frequently upload my photos, and enter the contest. The site has members from all over the world...so there's some pretty amazing work there. The theme for October was connections...and it just so happenned that I'd had a fantastic shoot with two of the most adorable sisters ever, and thought I had a good photo to put into this category. I can't quite describe how excited I was when I got the email saying I was a finalist...out of 38700 entries (this is for all thems together...of course!). And then...my friend Shannon - who's also addicted to photograhy - called to tell me I'd gotten a second place...SWEET! So...I'm attaching the email they sent me that they suggest I send to the local newspaper, as well as the photo...

*** Press Release ***

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

11/27/2007 Photographer Laureen M. Carruthers of Williams Lake, British Columbia, has won Second Place for October in the prestigious photography contest sponsored by BetterPhoto.com, the site's founder, Jim Miotke, announced Tuesday.

More than 37800 entries were submitted to the online photography contest, which attracted contestants from around the world and featured 10 separate categories.

Carruthers's stunning image, "connection...", garnered top honors after being submitted in the Monthly Theme category.

All of the winning images can be viewed at BetterPhoto.com's contest page: http://www.betterphoto.com/contest/winners/0710.asp

The contest is conducted each month. Categories include Nature and Landscapes, Animals, People, Elements of Design, Digital Darkroom, Travel and Place, Flowers, Details and Macro, Catch-All, and Monthly Theme. Judging is performed by a panel of professional photographers.

Besides its free, popular photo contest, BetterPhoto.com also offers a variety of services: digital camera reviews, online photo courses, free newsletters, a discussion forum, Web sites for photographers, question-and-answer section, how-to articles, photo galleries, and more.

Photographers can enter this month's contest and learn more about photography at: www.BetterPhoto.com

my Abercrombie boys!

2007-11-19T10:16:00.001-08:00

I told them to give me their "cool" look...and this is what I got. I think it works?!

fall or winter?

2007-11-17T09:04:00.000-08:00

We spent an afternoon at our cabin yesterday - got some fall"ish" looking photos, but also managed to get in a snowball fight, and some gt racing down the driveway - in the snow!

A Big Hike!!!

2007-11-13T15:52:00.000-08:00

My other photography crazed friend and I decided today would be a great day to hike up the backside of a mountain for some photos of our boys! They got there way ahead of us...but we had a great time, and the view was amazing!!

Lest We Forget...

2007-11-12T19:05:00.001-08:00

We took the boys to the Remembrance Day ceremonies yesterday. It's always such a humbling experience - as a mother, I can't imagine ever having to send one of my boys off to war. Thanks so much to those who did...for our freedom.

the swimmers!

2007-11-04T20:58:00.000-08:00

Parker & Keats had their first meet of the year today...both did really well! Keaton amazed us with his flip turns during the 100m breaststroke - we'd never seen him do flip turns before. Shame though, that flip turns aren't allowed in breaststroke, and he was disqualified! Next time...

Trick or Treat!

2007-10-31T09:25:00.000-07:00

Here they are in all their glory!

Parker, my amazingly nerdy boy, Keaton...or is that Bond...James Bond? and, Griffin, our little policeman (which is what he insists he's going to be when he grows up!)

Happy Halloween!

Hanging out with strep...

2007-10-25T20:34:00.000-07:00

Griff's been sick this week, hasn't made it to school yet. On tuesday, after being housebound for three days, we had to get out for some fresh air, so we went for a walk with my mom, and my friend Shannon. Of course, Shannon and I never walk without our cameras...so, I managed to get a few shots of Griff...he's finally feeling better, and will be back at school tomorrow!

friends (and boys!)

2007-10-22T08:54:00.001-07:00

Last week, my wonderful friend Sheri came home for a quick visit. We've been friends since grade 5...which is like 28 years ago (is that possible?). If someone would have ever told the two of us girly girls that between us, we'd oneday have six boys between us - I'm sure we would have told them they were NUTS! However...it's true - and we both make awesome boy's moms, and wouldn't have it any other way! Here's a couple shots of Sheri's adorable boys...enjoy Sheri!

so fall!

2007-10-16T21:47:00.000-07:00

I just love fall...it is totally my favorite season - and I wish it was fall for 12 months of the year! We went out to attempt to get a new family photo on the weekend, which didn't happen - but I still got some shots that I'm really loving...

Thanksgiving Fun...

2007-10-08T09:57:00.001-07:00

Thanks to my good friend Shannon - the boys had way too much fun having dessert last night!

I guess it was bound to happen...

2007-10-01T17:41:00.000-07:00

The other day, the phone rang. I checked call display, and didn't recognize the name, so assumed it was someone wanting photos. To my surprise, a cute little female voice said "is Parker there?"...I was so dumbfounded, I just repeated "Parker?"...and she said "yes...Parker". He wasn't home, so I took Kayla's message, and he called her back. The next day, she called three times! I can't believe it's started already - I told Brian we'll be needing a separate phone line soon!

My Resignation...

2007-09-26T13:51:00.000-07:00

To Whom It May Concern

Herewith I Officially Resign As An Adult. I Have Decided To Take On The Responsibilities Of An Eight Year Old Again. I Want To Go To Mcdonald's And Think It's A Four Star Restaurant. I Want To Sail Stick Boats On A Muddy Puddle After The Rain. I Want To Play Touch.

I Want To Go Back To A Time When Smarties Were More Valuable Than Money Because You Could Eat Them. I Want To Lie Under A Huge Shady Tree With My Mates On A Hot Summer Day And Dream While Chewing On A Blade Of Grass.

I Want To Return To A Time When Life Was Simple And Knowledge Was Limited To Colours, Multiplication Tables And Old Mac Donald Had A Farm. It Didn't Matter That There Were Things You Didn't Know. So What! All You Knew Was How To Be Happy Because You Were Blissfully Unaware Of Things That Would Upset You Or Get You Worrying - Like Zits.

I Want To Believe Again That Life Is Good And Fair And Everyone Is Honest And Genuine. I Want To Believe Anything Is Possible.

I Want To Live Simply Again, I Don't Want To Have To Deal With Computer Crashes, Mountains Of Paperwork, Depressing News, More Days In The Month Than The Total In My Bank Account, Doctors' Bills, Gossip, Illness And The Loss Of Loved Ones.

I Want To Believe Again In The Power Of A Smile, Hugs, A Friendly Word, The Truth As It Was In The Beginning. Justice, Peace, Dreams, Imagination, People Without Their Masks And Questionable Motives. I Want To Bake Mudcakes.

So Here Are My "chequebook", My Car Keys, My Credit Cards And Everything Else That Represents "grown-up". Herewith I Officially Resign From Adulthood. If You'd Like To Discuss This Issue Or Whatever Else, You'll Have To Chase Me Because ..........."touch! You Ca-a-a-n't Catch Me!"

Love this...thanks for sharing Natasha!