A Peek Into One Of My Passions

Today I want to share with you a peek into one of my passions.

Photography. 

I've always loved taking photo's. I remember as a child,  loading the film and sticking the flash stick in the camera. I remember in sixth grade I got my own Minty gGreen LeClic Disc Camera. Le Clic was "the thing" back then. Yes, I am a product of the 80's and wish I still had that trippy green camera! You can read more about by clicking the pic or the link below the pic. 

Photo from:  Retro Thing:Vintage Gadgets & Technology

When I graduated and moved to Cali to be a nanny I had a low end 35 mm that I used the heck out of, and took with me almost everywhere. Soon I was babysitting for my bosses friends who knew how much I loved photography, and it was for my Birthday they bought me a Kodak 35mm camera that was a HUGE step up from what I already owned. I'm not sure how many rolls of film I developed at the local Rite Aide but I'm pretty sure I was one of their regulars. Looking back at all those pics makes me smile, and brings back some wonderful memories. Some not so wonderful, but they all make me who I am today, and I'm glad I took them nonetheless.

Of course over the years my camera's and my photography has evolved. By no means do I call myself a professional, but I have had some professionals tell me I have a good eye, and a natural talent, which is always nice to hear. I long to learn more, and get better.

Awhile back with the encouragement of a friend I decided to open a shop on RedBubble  where you can get a variety of my original digital art, and digital photography. While I love taking photo's of people, it's sunsets, clouds and nature that really piques my interest. Below is just a sample of my work. If you would like to see more. Please feel free to check out my shop on RedBubble 

Most pictures and digital art pieces can be purchased in everything from posters and prints to stickers and tote bags.

Which piece do you like best? 

Let me know in the comments below! 

Carlos Playground Project

Who remembers playing on the playground when you were in elementary school? I know I do. 

The swings were my favorite, but of course I enjoyed all of the equipment. When school was out for the summer the neighborhood kids still used the equipment to play and have fun. That's also how things work at Carlos Elementary School in Carlos, MN.

 It's a small, close knit town, with great people, and a wonderful school. However... the playground equipment is in much need of replacement. Some of the equipment is almost as old as I am, and I'm no spring chicken.

Fortunately they have been able to raise some of the funds, and have a community build day set up to install the new equipment. Unfortunately, they only have approximately 11 weeks left to raise the remainder of the funds needed to move forward.

Below you will find some information about the project and a link to the GiveForward page. Please, remember, no amount is too small. Every single dollar counts! If you can't give monetarily PLEASE share this blog post, their GiveForward site. Tweet, Pin, Like, share on Facbook, Stumble, G+, everything and anything to get their cause seen will help. 

Carlos Playground | Carlos Playground Project

The much-loved Carlos Elementary playground is in need of renovation and repair.

"Our goal is to create a space that increases physical challenge, social activity, and accessibility, and addresses safety issues. We are looking for philanthropic partners to help us complete this project. Please give careful consideration to include the Carlos Playground project in your giving.

The Carlos school has been serving families in our area since 1978. With capital investments being made by our school district and our community, we know Carlos will continue to serve students for many years to come. The playground is a community amenity that is accessed year-round, seven days a week. It is an important community space that is utilized by many.

Access to a quality local elementary school adds value to our community by attracting families to live in the area. The education our students receive is among the best in the state. Our teachers provide highly individualized attention to our students, and our students work hard. Carlos’ standardized test scores are among the highest in our district and are consistently over the state averages.

Please help us complete this project by contributing. Due to some of the safety concerns, we are looking to complete the June of this year. Your donation dollars would be put to work right way."

For more information, updates, to donate and to share please CLICK HERE

Also feel free to share this blog post!