I'm actively trying to improve my mood lately.  All this snow & frigid cold is admittedly affecting this former West Coaster.  A friend of mine sent me a picture of the rhododendrons which are now starting to bloom in Victoria and yes, I actually shed a tear.  Thank goodness the sun has at least been out lately -with a fresh dusting of snow, I must admit, it's quite lovely and bright; but for the love of Pete, I've had enough.  My son came home from an outing to Home Depot with my husband and proudly presented me with this lovely purple (our mutual favourite colour) Hyacinth.  I think it's very hopeful sign of Spring, and the evocative scent is filling my livingroom. 

I surrender oh Great and Powerful Mother Nature, I'm waving my figurative white flag.  Take pity on us poor mortals and beasts alike, - bring us Spring!

Wednesday was 100's Day in Gavin's class. Any of you with kindergarteners will know this is a big deal -if they attend school every day, it's their 100th class (his 50th because he alternates 2-3 times/week), and the goal day for them to be able to count to 100 on their own.

I was actually asked to help in the classroom with a craft (thank goodness, I finally got to put that $25 police record check to use -insert rolly eyed guy here), so I helped them with their glasses. I also got to participate in the morning routine (so *that's* what the "Good Morning Song" is all about!) & got to read them a story -such fun! I really enjoyed it & it was nice to get to see what really goes on & meet his friends that he talks about incessantly. I think every parent should be able to attend a morning of class.

Please note, I usually don't post pics of children without their parent's permission; but since these kids are in disguise, I made an exception.

Sitting here, admiring a lovely 16x20 black & white, nakey pregnant belly print awaiting pick up (you know who you are!), and wishing I could share it with you all.  Alas, the shy, yet *super sassy* model was reluctant to sign a model release, so I can't.  Don't worry, I understand, not everyone is comfortable in the limelight.  Just trust me that it's a beautiful portrait, and one she should be very proud of.

Since I can't share my latest work, I'll share some "stuff".  A little back story:  I belong to a wonderfully close, private online group of photographers, some of us have been posting together for over 6 years now.  One member put out a challenge to us all at the beginning of the year; the challenge was, to take one non-work pic a day & share it with the group.  

While I don't participate every day, the challenge does creep into my thoughts on at least a daily basis, so is good inspiration to pick up my camera even when I don't have a session booked.  Here are some of the results.

Excuse me, but we're on a "texture kick" right now.  But, "everybody else is doing it"!

Ahhh, Valentine's Day.  A day of anticipation, romance... love.  Not everyone feels enthusiastic about it of course.  In fact, many dismiss the day as just another cash grabbing consumer holiday.  I could ramble on for quite some time with endless witty anecdotes involving the lengths, or lack of lengths we (ahem, who am I kidding -I'm talking about our oft delinquent, but loveable men, of course) go to in order to declare our love.  But, I won't because let's face it, it's been done to death.  Just check out your various home pages, inboxes, and local newscasts and papers for stories & reminders that there is still time to buy, buy, buy in case you forgot, forgot, forgot.

However you feel about it, the day is always better when spent with the one you love; is it not?  For me, it was spent with my handsome, four foot three, hazel eyed, little Valentine at the local indoor pool, sorting Lego, wiping PB&J off his collar and being warmed repeatedly by his favourite blankie after being heated on the furnace register -it doesn't get more loving than that. 

So, here's a Valentine's chocolate for you (don't tell Gavin I ate it!) and a heart felt "Happy Valentine's Day" greeting to you & yours. 

When I look outside now, this is all I see.  I took a picture of it so you can see it too.  The roads have lost their lines, buildings have lost their mass, the world has lost all contrast.  All is white.

For some strange reason, I'm really missing Vancouver right now.  It might be the colourless landscape of late, or the -30 degree weather, who could fathom?

On to less dreary topics; I've redecorated around here -did ya notice?  Do ya like it?  It's the wallpaper from my office in case you haven't visited me here yet.  I appreciate bold design.  My husband on the other hand does not; therefore, it is only visible from within my office.

Now, my shameless plea for votes.  My domain host is running a contest for blog design (thus, the kick in the pants for a new design -duh).  If you lend a vote (for mine of course!!), you could also win one of three great prizes.  If you enjoy my blog, take a second to vote:  http://www.doteasyblog.com/contest2008/vote.php

Much thanks! 

And, oh, by the way, if you've recently or are soon vacationing to a sunny, warm clime -hope you had/have a lovely time, but I don't wish to hear about it, thank you very much. 

Is it so wrong to look forward your morning cup of coffee the evening before?    I can't help but love it; the smell, the flavour, the warmth, the buzz.  It's my only vice -honestly.   I only have the one cup a day, but mmmmm, how I look forward to it.   Doesn't it look heavenly sitting there in it's pristine white mug, the morning sunlight creating a heavenly halo around the revered chalice?  Mmmmm, coffee; je t'adore.