tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86972226238215040602024-02-07T07:23:48.784-08:00Life as a Martha WannabeeHodgepodge of Domestic Goodness and random musings that is my lifeNicole Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16159792208949731090noreply@blogger.comBlogger179125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8697222623821504060.post-34539549166968031052010-08-09T18:31:00.000-07:002010-08-09T18:31:24.954-07:00Tablescape and Florals with my friend CassI posted this on my photography blog but I wanted to share the loveliness here also.<br />
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One Saturday in July my friend <a href="http://ceruleanblueevents.com/">Cass</a> and I got together at my house and used teapots from the Goodwill, flowers from the produce market, and my antique china and stemware to create a tablescape.<br />
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I must say Cass out did herself for throwing this together in an afternoon.<br />
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><u>Sources</u></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Teapots : Good Will</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Linen : Napkins from Etsy and Tablecloth from Crate and Barrel purchased two years ago.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">China : Antique - my husband's great grandmother's china</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Stemware: Inherited from my grandmother</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Silverware : Sourced from Bed, Bath, and Beyond a couple of years ago</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Candles: Ikea purchased last year</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">Cass at work opening up the roses.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4117/4850881489_dff81c56ae_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4117/4850881489_dff81c56ae_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>Nicole Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16159792208949731090noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8697222623821504060.post-42489272154988646432010-08-03T18:59:00.000-07:002010-08-03T18:59:00.321-07:00Inspiration from Mrs. ObamaMichelle Obama wore a similar dress to a celebration honoring Paul McCartney with the Gershwin Prize.<br />
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I am trying to rationalize purchasing it for myself even though I have no where to wear it.<br />
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Do you think its a bit much to wear just around the house?<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://carinanewyork.com/store/avactis-images/BL2202SilkCharmeuseDressinBlushandDove.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://carinanewyork.com/store/avactis-images/BL2202SilkCharmeuseDressinBlushandDove.jpg" width="251" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://carinanewyork.com/store/product-info.php?Byron-Lars-Silk-Charmeuse-Dress-pid171.html">Byron Lars Silk Charmeuse Dress in Grey & Blush - $316 at Carina New York</a></div>Nicole Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16159792208949731090noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8697222623821504060.post-13680420593302767412010-08-03T18:52:00.000-07:002010-08-03T18:52:19.413-07:00San Fransico Sneak Peek PhotoSneak Peek of a photo from our recent vacation to San Fransico.<br />
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1. Yes I am wearing a cat hat.<br />
2. My husband didn't want to take the picture.<br />
3. Husband hates the cat hat.<br />
4. Cat hat came in handy since it was so cold and windy.<br />
5. Cat hat is Kick A** Adorable.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4095/4858280959_4b466329e2_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4095/4858280959_4b466329e2_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Nicole Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16159792208949731090noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8697222623821504060.post-36874850420064270492010-08-01T12:44:00.000-07:002010-08-01T12:44:48.551-07:00Back from vacation and totally inspired<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://web.me.com/lisakristineblog/Lisa_Kristing_Blog/Lisa_Kristine_Blog/Entries/2008/11/5_Red_Calm_files/shapeimage_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://web.me.com/lisakristineblog/Lisa_Kristing_Blog/Lisa_Kristine_Blog/Entries/2008/11/5_Red_Calm_files/shapeimage_2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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Roe and I are back after a week in beautiful and chilly San Fransico. I have over 700 photos to go through and edit from our trip! Quite a task ahead of me. But before I share with you any of our photos, which quite frankly may take me a while to go through, I want to share with you images from an artist whose gallery we came across in Sonoma during our wine country tour. Both Roe and I are were totally captivated by her images with their bold vivid color and their ability to capture the beauty of everyday people and moments from other cultures. We walked through the gallery and around every turn you could hear us utter "WOW" in hushed tones. There are very few artists whose work moves me enough to say that I want one of their pieces, but with <a href="http://www.lisakristine.com/home.html">Lisa Kristine </a>I want all of her pieces! After visiting the gallery Roe and I have decided to save to invest in one of her larger prints. I am so excited about the prospect of on day owning one of her works. <br />
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I highly encourage you to take a stop by her <a href="http://www.lisakristine.com/home.html">website</a> and view her visually stunning work, and if you are so lucky to be in the Sonoma area also pay a visit to her gallery.Nicole Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16159792208949731090noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8697222623821504060.post-63222425469601548412010-07-18T03:43:00.000-07:002010-07-18T19:14:03.294-07:00Oh Jack how I long for theeSince the weather has gotten warmer my longing for a little canine companion has just gotten stronger. My husband and I went to a breeder this past winter after falling in love with two little King Charles Cavalier spaniels we saw on our honeymoon. We decided to hold off on getting the new addition to our family till we move to our next house (which will fingers crossed be early next year and which is a whole bowl of anxiety since we have to get through selling our current home first). And even though we don't have our puppy yet I have already decided on a name and am anxiously waiting on the day when we can enjoy walks, cuddle together, and I will have his little anxious face greet me at the door.<br />
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So until that day comes Gentleman Jack just know there is someone longing for you with an excited and loving heart.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.breederretriever.com/photopost/data/641/Cavalier-King-Charles-Spaniel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://www.breederretriever.com/photopost/data/641/Cavalier-King-Charles-Spaniel.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Nicole Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16159792208949731090noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8697222623821504060.post-26033316783565842932010-07-13T16:39:00.000-07:002010-07-13T16:39:44.261-07:00Simple Summer PleasureAhhhhh refreshing!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4115/4791242521_f47e470d40_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4115/4791242521_f47e470d40_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Nicole Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16159792208949731090noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8697222623821504060.post-9825213885740823172010-07-07T15:41:00.000-07:002010-07-07T15:41:01.209-07:00Fueling My Bag and Etsy obsessionI have an <a href="http://crazyoveretsy.blogspot.com/">obsession with etsy</a> and an obsession with bags. So I squel with delight when I am able to merge both.<br />
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I blogged about <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/BoopaLoopa?ref=top_trail">Boopa Loopa</a> a couple of weeks ago after thinking her bags were perfect for travel and stuffing all your goodies and distractions needed for a flight. I am always looking for something striking and different for a travel bag and for something that can haul a lot of my stuff (Kindle, magazines, snacks, medicine, etc). This bag did not disappoint.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_430xN.124926302.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_430xN.124926302.jpg" width="550" /></a></div><br />
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Peta (owner of Boopa Loop)a makes the bags from vintage fabrics and they are truly one of a kind. I was so pleased to hear that I have one of only two and the other is with someone in Ireland. How tres exclusive!<br />
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I couldn't wait for our trip to San Fran later this month and I have been rocking it around Philly for the past 2 weeks. I secretly take pleasure in saying "It's from Amsterdam and I have the only one in the States." (Yes I have an inner snob. LOL)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4082/4764719727_24c6958914_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="454" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4082/4764719727_24c6958914_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Pictured here fresh out of the packaging when it arrived 2 weeks ago.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Nicole Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16159792208949731090noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8697222623821504060.post-58138439608515102402010-07-05T13:43:00.000-07:002010-07-05T13:43:42.101-07:00Garden Update : What's Blooming NowSo the garden is in full swing and after weeks of hydrangeas the cone flowers are making their appearance. I will now be inundated with echinacea, black-eyed susans, and rudbeckia till September. The great part about them is they attract a multitude of butterflies, bees, and the most adorable little yellow birds. I am now waiting for my butterfly bushes to come in to really see the explosion of butterflies in the garden.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4138/4764722195_487c5bb1ea_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="490" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4138/4764722195_487c5bb1ea_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4140/4765355836_38bc2fddeb_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="490" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4140/4765355836_38bc2fddeb_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Nicole Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16159792208949731090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8697222623821504060.post-70855285047487854562010-07-05T13:36:00.001-07:002010-07-05T13:36:47.223-07:00Mommy's Birthday<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Last week I had a birthday celebration for my mother and a group of her closest friends at XIX in the Bellevue Hyatt. I had originally intended to do a large celebration next year for mommy's 60th, however, given the health scares this year and stress of my grandmother's illness I thought it would be nice to do something special this year. The older I get the more I realize how important it is to value the time we have now with loved ones because time is so precious and short. Mommy and I have not alway been close especially during my teenage years but I can truly say that I know that she has always given me unconditional love, been unselfish and self sacrificing for me, and I know no matter what she will always be there. So it was sooooo very special for me to host a luncheon in her honor. And each one of my mom's friends are such lovely and warm woman. I've known most of these ladies my whole life and they have seen me grow from infancy to who I am now. I can only hope that I can mature as gracefully as they have. Don't they all look fab!</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4139/4765355588_5a6b970e89_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="491" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4139/4765355588_5a6b970e89_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Nicole Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16159792208949731090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8697222623821504060.post-63645541192993993262010-07-01T14:38:00.000-07:002010-07-01T14:38:24.896-07:00DilemmaSo I finally found a writing desk for our living room after hemming and hawing for 2 months.<br />
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Problem its from West Elm.<br />
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Why is that a problem?<br />
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Because I redeemed a boat load of Amex points for a hefty gift card to Crate and Barrel, swearing we would get a desk from there.<br />
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Can you hear me banging my head against the wall right now?<br />
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Here is the a pic of the culprit. Now to bite the bullet and buy it.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.westelm.com/weimgs/rk/images/wcm/products/201026/0019/img81m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://www.westelm.com/weimgs/rk/images/wcm/products/201026/0019/img81m.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Ok So what should I get with the CB gift card?<br />
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Maybe a chair - but the one I want is from Ballard!<br />
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Can't win for trying.Nicole Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16159792208949731090noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8697222623821504060.post-14095564192205983522010-06-22T11:35:00.000-07:002010-06-22T11:40:01.084-07:00My visit with an old friend in Brooklyn<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">The other weekend I was able to ride the train up to New York and spend the weekend with one of my oldest and dearest friends from college. I met Toya my first week of college and while we are soooo different in so many ways, we feel comfortable around each other and can talk for hours and hours when we are together. I love visiting her and her little family, her girls are so adorable and sweet, plus I get the opportunity to always see some cool site in NY. This trip was no different and we swung by the Brooklyn Flea Market. Though not large in size it is jammed pack with goodies. I found one vendor that made furniture from reclaimed wood (barns, doors, etc) and was so disappointed when I learned that they don't ship. Me and hubby would have to rent a truck and drive to NY to buy any of their items. And I am seriously debating it since they were so beautiful (And like a num-num forgot to snap a pic of any of their booth.) </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">And you know me being a big foodie I had to stop and get great food. We went to <a href="http://www.cafehabana.com/">Cafe Habana Post</a> in Brooklyn for hands down the best frozen mojito and cuban sandwiches anywhere. Oh my gosh I am drooling thinking about them. YUM.</div><div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
Oh and in case you are wondering all pics were taken with my 35mm lens and the Nikon D90.<br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1381/4722587644_d7149cb9db_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="472" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1381/4722587644_d7149cb9db_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">There were tons of vintage Coach bags at the flea market. I mean everywhere! Maybe they are a hot item right now. Oh how I wanted to snag one. These were the bags when Coach only made leather and they were sturdy as hell.</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1327/4721936667_a55c32f911_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1327/4721936667_a55c32f911_b.jpg" width="440" /></a></div><div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
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</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1391/4721949275_7827a58ea8_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1391/4721949275_7827a58ea8_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1343/4721954913_1b0f49c71c_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1343/4721954913_1b0f49c71c_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1183/4722597686_4f8d855a15_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1183/4722597686_4f8d855a15_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1407/4721963765_37af27e85e_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1407/4721963765_37af27e85e_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1340/4722635918_711d974689_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="290" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1340/4722635918_711d974689_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1073/4722634128_19f6182453_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1073/4722634128_19f6182453_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">My friend Toya taking my picture. Something that rarely happens these days since I took up photography.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1332/4722623306_ab92aa1415_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1332/4722623306_ab92aa1415_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1117/4722619794_7f843e6e54_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1117/4722619794_7f843e6e54_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1433/4722628224_81a9ea4fd7_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1433/4722628224_81a9ea4fd7_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
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</div></div></div>Nicole Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16159792208949731090noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8697222623821504060.post-18652164686341652182010-06-15T18:19:00.000-07:002010-06-15T18:19:55.225-07:00Loveliness is AboundRight now loveliness is abound in the garden and I have vases of these all around the house. What a lovely sight to wake up to.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4064/4704401849_a4a422cc91_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4064/4704401849_a4a422cc91_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Nicole Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16159792208949731090noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8697222623821504060.post-37842809787052581772010-06-09T21:02:00.000-07:002010-06-09T21:02:43.659-07:00I missed my anniversaryI missed my anniversary and didn't even realize it! It just struck me when I was talking to my friend <a href="http://ceruleanblueevents.com/">Cass</a> tonight about our plans for a photoshoot and I had to reference something on the blog and came across<a href="http://lifeasamarthawannabee.blogspot.com/2009/12/my-new-best-friend.html"> this.</a><div><br />
</div><div>Last month this time marked 6 months of me owning a Nikon DSLR. It was the anniversary of when I committed myself to learning photography as a "serious hobby". Sometimes I get soooooo frustrated that my photography is not where I want it to be and I get discouraged when I see the great work of so many other photographers. But I have to take a step back and look at how far I have come. I've gotten to this point by just rolling up my sleeves and digging in and committing myself to learning. And quite frankly I never thought one little inanimate object like a camera could change my life so much. I have never had anything light a fire in me like photography. I feel so blessed to be able to pursue something that I love and gives me and others so much joy. I am looking forward to where photography takes me in the next 6 months because it has taken me oh so far already.</div><div><br />
</div><div>For now I leave you with a photo I took around my "anniversary" at the <a href="http://www.girlphotographyblog.com/2010/05/shoot-shot-workshop-with-isabel-march.html">Shoot the Shot Workshop I attended hosted by Isabel March.</a></div><div><br />
</div><div>And if you want you can follow my photography journey over at <a href="http://www.girlphotographyblog.com/">Girl Photography</a>.</div><div><br />
</div><div>And yes this was totally a post giving myself a pat on the back. Hey we all need one every once in a while ;)</div><div><br />
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</div>Nicole Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16159792208949731090noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8697222623821504060.post-5075125326313166822010-06-08T18:45:00.000-07:002010-06-08T18:45:32.819-07:00Great Find : Emerson Made=Pretty Loveliness<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande'; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande'; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4010/4627726105_751ded66de_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4010/4627726105_751ded66de_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>I came across this great find at a recent bridal show I attended. I don't think you have to be a bride to find these darling for everyday.<br />
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Go check out the<a href="http://emersonmade.com/"> Emerson Made </a>website to see more loveliness.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4062/4628328686_ba73fd52cb_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4062/4628328686_ba73fd52cb_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4027/4627725221_7579177d41_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4027/4627725221_7579177d41_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4010/4628328920_1e4215096b_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4010/4628328920_1e4215096b_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4046/4628329186_e3db75437d_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4046/4628329186_e3db75437d_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
All shot with a Nikon D3000, 35mm, f2, ISO 400Nicole Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16159792208949731090noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8697222623821504060.post-21825865471683945582010-06-06T10:36:00.000-07:002010-06-06T10:49:36.223-07:00Philadelphia Weddingbee Meetup at Silk City<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande'; font-size: small;"></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande'; font-size: small;"><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4031/4674856391_5115513dc9_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4031/4674856391_5115513dc9_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div></div></span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">When I was planning my wedding I was a BIG time reader of <a href="http://Weddingbee.com/">Weddingbee.com</a>, so I was thrilled to hear that a Philly meetup was occurring for all the area readers and Bees. The location was <a href="http://www.silkcityphilly.com/">Silk City</a>, a diner that has been around for ages, however, with the addition of the Beer Garden and a snazzy take on traditional diner faves Silk City is one of the best spots in the city for brunch. We lounged outside chatting it up sipping Bloody Marys and mimosas. Though I am 9 months out from my wedding I still occasionally stop over to weddingbee and read the updates and post a comment here and there. For all of you newly engaged gals who haven't discovered weddingbee.com head on over and check it out. I swear that it is super helpful to any bride and also crazy addictive.</div><div class="customImage"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4025/4674661601_c0cfaffa1e_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4025/4674661601_c0cfaffa1e_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4062/4674654063_c6cf0ff6f2_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4062/4674654063_c6cf0ff6f2_b.jpg" width="440" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.tinyteres.blogspot.com/">flamingred</a> - she came looking so chic and stylish, very SATC</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4004/4674663527_b09b9ec983_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4004/4674663527_b09b9ec983_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4021/4675295992_c435a27dc6_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4021/4675295992_c435a27dc6_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4038/4675275978_bcf66bb881_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="290" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4038/4675275978_bcf66bb881_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">Bee readers will recognize this lady. It's <a href="http://www.weddingbee.com/author/cupcake/">Mrs. Cupcake</a>!</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4026/4675284894_34fd15429e_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4026/4675284894_34fd15429e_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">Flamingred's bridesmaid came out too.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1300/4674671177_c7487ac8d5_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1300/4674671177_c7487ac8d5_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">Bee reader <a href="http://www.loverswaltz.com/">danadelphia.</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4048/4675294348_33fc217e3b_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4048/4675294348_33fc217e3b_b.jpg" width="424" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4028/4675296554_a2339a063d_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4028/4675296554_a2339a063d_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4060/4674662133_f328a5099c_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4060/4674662133_f328a5099c_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4032/4674654421_4f3397809f_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="290" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4032/4674654421_4f3397809f_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4018/4675289042_df0ee9bb90_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4018/4675289042_df0ee9bb90_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4065/4675686534_5f7b854ee2_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4065/4675686534_5f7b854ee2_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4071/4675293778_df1a640b83_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4071/4675293778_df1a640b83_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/"></a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
PS All photos taken with a 35mm lens, edited in Lightroom, sharpened with Pioneer Woman's action in PSE. If you want to see the other settings go over to my <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/15272507@N07/">Flickr stream</a> and click the properties link for the photo.<br />
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</div></div>Nicole Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16159792208949731090noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8697222623821504060.post-75124362541948673782010-06-03T16:33:00.000-07:002010-06-05T18:43:43.256-07:00What's in my camera bagSo I have been asked what lens do I use and so here is what I carry around in my camera bag.<br />
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First off I am a Nikon girl. I know there are many in the Canon legions but I chose Nikon. One because it was recommended by a good friend of mine who is a fab photographer and uses Nikon too. Two when I went to choose my first DSLR I did not like the feel of the entry level Canons in my hand. They didn't feel as well made as Nikon.<br />
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I have 4 lenses in my current arsenal and I rent lens as needed. Hopefully one day I won't have to that but it takes a while till I can bite the bullet and get some of the big gun lenses that are upwards of $2 grand.Yes that is 2000 DOLLARS - US. Photography is not cheap.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4070/4667584192_a9040a3c81_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4070/4667584192_a9040a3c81_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
From left to right:<br />
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1 - Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5/5.6 - this is the kit lens that came with my D3000. It was my primary lens when I first got my camera but I rarely use it now. I only take it out for when I need to get wide angle shots.<br />
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2. Nikon 35mm f/1.8 - I LUUUUUVVVVVVV this lens. It was the best investment of $200 ever. It is sharp and produces great photos like the one below. It is my little workhorse and I use it on every job. In fact I can do whole sessions or events with it. On my D90 and D3000 it more like a 50mm since they are DX (cropped frame sensors). Is the star of my little camera bag and I can't imagine leaving it at home.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4028/4634523334_41426b9c7e_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4028/4634523334_41426b9c7e_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
3. Nikon 55-200mm f/4-5.6 - This was the second lens I purchased. I use it occasionally when I need to zoom from far away and I don't want to be obtrusive but I much rather prefer my prime lenses.<br />
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4. Nikon 50mm f/1.4 - People wax poetic about the 50mm and while I like it, I don't love it. Behind my 35mm it is my most frequently used lens. Maybe I have not fallen in love with it because I have DX camera and it is more like a 75mm lens on my bodies. When I switch to a FX maybe I will join the legions of adoring fans. But I do love the sharpness and beautiful bokeh it provides and use it as my primary portrait lens.<br />
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I am looking to get another lens soon (after promising my husband) no more lenses till the end of the year ;(<br />
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I have my eye on the following:<br />
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Nikon 20mm f/2.8<br />
Nikon 24 mm f/2.8<br />
Tokina 11-16mm f/2.8<br />
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I just need to decide on which one.<br />
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If you haven't noticed I love shooting with prime lens. i don't mind having to move and i love the results they give you.<br />
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And hopefully if I am a good girl and business is good this year I can get the holy grail - the Nikon 24-70 f/2.8.<br />
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Hope this helps.<br />
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Oh and I also have a SB600 external flash that I use on jobs as well, but I try my darndest not to use a flash and I never use one for my casual photgraphy (except today to take this pic - on my poorly lit bookcase). But almost every photo I have posted here on MarthWannabee has been without a flash.Nicole Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16159792208949731090noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8697222623821504060.post-78024123361981349262010-06-03T15:12:00.000-07:002010-06-03T15:50:24.999-07:00The Garden has been all abloom<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4003/4628330152_0b98fcc389_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4003/4628330152_0b98fcc389_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
The garden has just been bursting with flowers. My rose bushes all except one have been alive with color, my rhododendrons were bursting with lovely petals of pink, and now my hydrangeas are starting to make their appearance after a poor performance last summer. If the summer continues this way this may be the loveliest year for my garden yet.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4008/4627726611_62d5115a90_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4008/4627726611_62d5115a90_b.jpg" width="428" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Just towards the end of the bloom time for my rhodies.</div><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4009/4627726361_3b430e74f6_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4009/4627726361_3b430e74f6_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My one foxglove plant which has now yielded all its flowers.</div><a href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1305/4667581382_0c0aaf49f2_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1305/4667581382_0c0aaf49f2_b.jpg" width="428" /></a><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A new edition to the garden this year. I forget the name.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My hydrangeas are just starting to turn pink. I would love to have white ones.</div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Not a big fan of daisies but they are hardy and bloom for a long time.</div><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4066/4667582324_eee9900d1f_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4066/4667582324_eee9900d1f_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My cactus, which sticks me ever year yields beautiful big yellow flowers. As you can see weeds love to hide out in it since the needless make it hard to weed.</div><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4049/4666961115_1b41720a70_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4049/4666961115_1b41720a70_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Coreopsis another hardy plant that blooms all summer.</div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And my mini ivory roses. They are so lovely and are growing over their bed like weeds but I don't mind.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1276/4666962189_1965677650_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1276/4666962189_1965677650_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Nicole Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16159792208949731090noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8697222623821504060.post-46179085318209600032010-06-03T14:44:00.000-07:002010-06-03T14:44:01.141-07:00Pet adoption Day at Northern Liberties PiazzaDid I ever share with you the pics from our outing to Pet Adoption Day in Northern Liberties at the Piazza? Be prepared for some major furry cuteness. We almost came home with a gorgeous pure bred cocker spaniel. However, Roe and I have decide to hold off on another fur baby till we get our new house and have more time to give it all the attention it deserves. Plus my little guy Donnie is getting old and crogegty and I swear he has a touch of AS (is that possible in cats), that I want to be able to focus just on him for now.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4014/4631568849_fe0dcfa3c5_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4014/4631568849_fe0dcfa3c5_b.jpg" width="428" /></a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3316/4631569263_825d9d323a_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3316/4631569263_825d9d323a_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3582/4632168538_074ac10e3e_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3582/4632168538_074ac10e3e_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">The little guy on the left was going to all the cages and spilling out the water bowls. Naughty!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4014/4632169796_dc140ff594_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4014/4632169796_dc140ff594_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">Free dog treats offered by my friend Tara from<a href="http://www.averyspetstyle.com/"> Avery's Pet Styling Salon and Boutique.</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4017/4632169520_8138ac7165_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4017/4632169520_8138ac7165_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">I didn't forget my feline friends.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4056/4631569891_e042168e02_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4056/4631569891_e042168e02_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>Nicole Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16159792208949731090noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8697222623821504060.post-65088116099024718402010-05-27T12:33:00.000-07:002010-05-27T12:33:42.702-07:00Experiments with Apple PieIt seems like I have not done a food posting in forever. No I am not on strike from cooking its just that I haven't been experimenting with anything new or doing anything that fabulous.<br />
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Last week I was inspired out of the blue to make apple pie to go along with our pork chop dinner. Now granted I LUUUVVVVV apple pie but I have never made it before in my life. (Isn't that terrible?) The biggest deterrent has always been that I didn't know a great pie crust recipe, that is until I learned <a href="http://lifeasamarthawannabee.blogspot.com/2010/01/so-what-goes-into-making-great-pie.html">Pioneer Woman's recipe.</a> Only since then have I felt I had a foundation for making good pie. So I decided to take another page out of her recipe book and try her Flat Apple Pie Recipe.<br />
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Now I will tell you I had a hard time with this recipe because I did not thoroughly read the directions. It requires 2 pie crusts and I used one. DOOOOHHHH! Which resulted in too much filling, which tore the crust , which made filling spill onto the baking sheet and caused a hot smoky mess in my kitchen. So my filing could have been a little more caramelly (is that even a word but you know what I mean) but otherwise it was totally tasty. The recipe for the filling yields a filling that is just right in terms of taste - not too sweet not too tart. I only modified it a bit by adding cinnamon. I am definitely going to use the filling in more traditional pies as well.<br />
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And next time I will use 2 pie crusts!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3304/4628330560_6039a1aa65_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3304/4628330560_6039a1aa65_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>As you can see it is extra brown (burnt) around the bottom edges. But it was still really yummy.</i></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;">Pioneer Woman's Flat Apple Pie</span></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<b>Ingredients</b><br />
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<ul><li>5 peeled & sliced Granny Smith apples</li>
<li>2 tbsp. flour</li>
<li>Juice of 1/2 lemon</li>
<li>1/2 c. sugar</li>
<li>1/2 c. brown sugar, packed</li>
<li>1/4 tsp. salt</li>
<li><a href="http://lifeasamarthawannabee.blogspot.com/2010/01/so-what-goes-into-making-great-pie.html">1 recipe Perfect Pie Crust</a></li>
<li>6 tbsp. butter</li>
<li>Cinnamon to taste</li>
</ul><br />
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<b>Method</b><br />
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1.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Preheat oven to 375-degrees.<br />
2.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>In a large bowl, stir together the apples, flour, lemon juice, granulated sugar, brown sugar and salt. Set aside.<br />
3.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Roll out two pie crusts into large circles. Place the circles on large baking sheets.<br />
4.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Place half the apple mixture on one crust and other half on the other crust.<br />
5.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Fold over the edge of each crust so that it covers 2-3 inches of the apple mixture. No need to be artistic - the more rustic the better.<br />
6.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Dot the tops of the pies with chunks of butter.<br />
7.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Bake for 30-40 minutes, until the filling is golden and bubbly. If the crust appears to brown too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time.<br />
8.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>All to cool slightly, then slice into wedges with a pizza cutter.Nicole Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16159792208949731090noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8697222623821504060.post-58957776639262499172010-05-24T19:22:00.000-07:002010-05-24T19:22:13.139-07:00Farmer's Market on the PiazzaRoe and I went to SPCA Adoption Day this weekend at the Northern Liberties Piazza. We have been going back and forth about adding a new fur baby to our family. We already have Donnie my faithful feline friend but Roe has his heart set on a dog. We have visited breeders but quite frankly at this point neither one of us has the time to properly raise a dog. So needless to say we came home empty handed but I do have some photos to post of some of the cute cuddly guys we met.<br />
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Every weekend on the Piazza there is a farmer's market and me being a foodie could not pass up all the yummy farm fresh goodies. I even was able to stop over at Brown Betty's Cupcake Boutique and indulge in my love of moist cakey goodness.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4004/4636842255_0916fcfd71_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4004/4636842255_0916fcfd71_o.jpg" width="440" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Roe went crazy with the make your own snack mix and they had toffee covered cashews - OMG a taste of heaven.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">Of course I had to get a half a dozen cupcakes (and yes I did share with my husband).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4034/4632184152_ecfb9e01ef_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4034/4632184152_ecfb9e01ef_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Nicole Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16159792208949731090noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8697222623821504060.post-8713120909009909962010-05-23T16:39:00.000-07:002010-05-23T16:41:24.546-07:00Planning a Luncheon for Mommy - Invitations<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4066/4633061923_276f664d8f_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4066/4633061923_276f664d8f_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
As <a href="http://owlandbunnyblog.wordpress.com/">Deb from Owl and Bunny</a> can attest to a couple of weeks ago I was going back and forth regarding choosing an invitation for my mother's birthday luncheon I am hosting. My mother will be 59 this year and I was holding off doing something special for her until next year when she turns the big 6-0. However, my mother had a series of health scares the past couple of months one of which involved a potential diagnosis of cancer, which thank the Lord it was not, so I thought why wait. This is the perfect time to celebrate her life and show my appreciation to her for being such a wonderful and giving mother. So I decided to do a birthday luncheon at the <a href="http://www.hyatt.com/gallery/nineteen/xix.html">Philadelphia Park Hyatt Bellevue XIX</a>, one of our favorite restaurants, for her and 5 of her closest friends.<br />
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I wanted the invite to be feminine, light, and sophisticated and also keep with my mother's style and taste. I went back and forth as to whether I should make them myself, order print your own through etsy, or go all out and have them custom done. In the process I had a hard time making up my mind and kept waffling back and forth between the three options. I even went as far as drafting up an invite in Photoshop but put the kibosh on it when my mother said that she hates grey and of course the invites I designed were grey and yellow.<br />
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Then I decided to go check out <a href="http://tinyprints.com/">Tiny Prints/Wedding Paper Divas</a>. I order my Christmas cards through them every year (I know shame on me for not using etsy) and recall that they had some very pretty party invites at reasonable prices. There I found a beautiful bridal shower invitation that I was able to customize to my needs. My mother loved it which was a big relief for me.<br />
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Now I can focus on florals and menu selection and of course I will keep you updated.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4041/4633035739_5302f50ca2_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4041/4633035739_5302f50ca2_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Nicole Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16159792208949731090noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8697222623821504060.post-31468916395414219342010-05-21T19:33:00.000-07:002010-05-21T19:33:32.960-07:00An afternoon with the Woman, the Myth, the Legend - Sylvia Weinstock<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3315/4628328008_9c74530cd2_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3315/4628328008_9c74530cd2_b.jpg" width="267" /></a></div>This past Sunday my friend <a href="http://ceruleanblueevents.com/">Cass</a> and I went to a bridal event hosted by <a href="http://www.eclatantedesign.com/">Eclatante </a>in Northern Liberties. Cass and I are both newbies to the wedding industry and we thought it would be a great way to observe seasoned professionals. Well part of the draw for me for the afternoon was the opportunity to meet the legendary Sylvia Weinstock and I was not disappointed. Its clear that she is fabulously talented and one savvy business woman but its her personality that really sells you. She is just a dynamo - witty, funny, and engaging. The thing I am hearing again and again from people in the wedding industry is that while you are selling your goods and services what you are really selling is yourself. And I can see how Sylvia can draw people in and make them feel as though that she is giving them a once in a life time cake experience. Unfortunately we didn't get to sample any of her cake but I didn't care because it was just so awe inspiring to hear her speak.<br />
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Now if I can just meet Martha ......Nicole Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16159792208949731090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8697222623821504060.post-71228359392292401572010-05-21T19:15:00.000-07:002010-05-21T19:15:29.597-07:00I got a new toy!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3312/4627724519_cdf4905c18_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3312/4627724519_cdf4905c18_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Feeding my photography bug has taken the place of my shopping for clothes and bags .... well almost.<br />
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But I do admit that I sit and drool over the <a href="http://www.bhphotovideo.com/">B&H</a> catalog earmarking all the new accessories and lenses I want. I bit the bullet and bought my new baby after taking a photography seminar earlier this month. My original plan was to get another body towards the end of the year but I couldn't hold out. Now my D3000 is relegated to my back up body and travel camera. I have already road tested my D90 and I love her. I see us doing fab things in the year ahead.<br />
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</span></span></div>Nicole Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16159792208949731090noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8697222623821504060.post-68967628080891629032010-05-17T18:04:00.000-07:002010-05-17T18:04:49.362-07:00Why my posting has been erraticMy posting has not been regular as I like because of .....<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4006/4614017586_7209428e82_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4006/4614017586_7209428e82_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4022/4575545605_62747e9936_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4022/4575545605_62747e9936_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3424/4569646422_112bcc8d10_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="404" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3424/4569646422_112bcc8d10_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4064/4586504408_8e9dcbd3c0_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4064/4586504408_8e9dcbd3c0_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My photography has been taking off and all my free time has gone towards making it grow. Juggling a full time job, establishing a business, and still keeping up on the domestic front is hard.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I have so much to share with my garden, recipes, shopping, and home but just need more time to blog. I love my little blog and all my blog friends and want you to know hey I am still here.</div>Nicole Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16159792208949731090noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8697222623821504060.post-30423330469167231042010-05-12T09:19:00.000-07:002010-05-12T09:19:20.820-07:00FLICKR IS DOWN AND IT BLOWS BIG TIMEMy Flickr account is down!!!!!<br />
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Because I discontinued service with Verizon which was linked to my Yahoo account which was linked to my Flickr account, I now have no access to Flickr till someone decides to respond to my cry for help via email to their customer service.<br />
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This blows big time.<br />
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And means no blogging. Grrrrrrrrr!<br />
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And I pay to be a have a Flickr account. WTH.Nicole Petersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16159792208949731090noreply@blogger.com0