tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24311388103544834652024-03-12T21:42:40.329-04:00away for the weekendKaren Lakishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14493883087361055962noreply@blogger.comBlogger274125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2431138810354483465.post-13105941753618691482018-01-05T08:06:00.000-05:002019-04-07T20:38:23.487-04:00I have moved<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I have moved - please join me at <a href="https://karenlakis.com/" target="_blank">Gingham Notebook</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://karenlakis.com/" target="_blank">KarenLakis.com</a></span><br />
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Karen Lakishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14493883087361055962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2431138810354483465.post-58168635686772351862017-12-31T07:57:00.000-05:002017-12-31T07:57:21.176-05:00something pink<div style="text-align: center;">
Long, long ago - (well, back when I was in high school)</div>
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In a faraway land - (that would be Kansas - it's kind of far from Boston)</div>
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I made myself a gingham notebook (I'm not sure why I made myself a notebook rather than going to the local dime store - but then, that's not really the point of the story)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjinm0-Wv4FTn0h9THCvZ-UbqkNCgpFLwqCkF3yhF9st2zi-v7-BHKQgRnfGqUIQqsbvTYkIHT5MmamtPjxNa0fw30cW0h4DD1PPWe961Fy9VgRV-qZQVWNmk_8D9nWVIEW9zx98Sn0WR0/s1600/web-7662.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjinm0-Wv4FTn0h9THCvZ-UbqkNCgpFLwqCkF3yhF9st2zi-v7-BHKQgRnfGqUIQqsbvTYkIHT5MmamtPjxNa0fw30cW0h4DD1PPWe961Fy9VgRV-qZQVWNmk_8D9nWVIEW9zx98Sn0WR0/s640/web-7662.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Anyway, this gingham notebook served as my very special journal</div>
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- a chronicle of my teenage days - thoughts, hopes, dramas...</div>
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I found it stashed away in a trunk, having made it through several moves.</div>
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Without opening the journal, I remembered all that it contained,</div>
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and how much it had meant to me.</div>
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And as I began to transition away from "away for the weekend"</div>
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this journal served as the inspiration for my new blog - Gingham Notebook</div>
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(without the teenage angst and drama)</div>
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- focusing on the everyday - photos, stories - everyday rambles</div>
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This will be my final post on away for the weekend,<br />
I hope you will join me at <a href="http://karenlakis.com/">karenlakis.com/</a><br />
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I wish you a very happy and safe new year!<br />
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<i>Thanks for dropping in!</i></div>
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Karen Lakishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14493883087361055962noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2431138810354483465.post-1078747139198567932017-12-28T08:30:00.000-05:002017-12-28T08:30:09.193-05:00quiet time<div style="text-align: center;">
I had a wonderful time with my family, this Christmas</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitRBb5QzaiJYy3iT8e6slNWHTyh7-Iib4Qx58X6wYtTHuEoR_k3LiNo6QT3LNAkHtLd1Q_W5DkuQp85Jl9yy_bIc0KD7tSTU2O1_Go6eXhOcMRSDNB3ehmHHA-Eq91Bz70rxE_UPW9oh4/s1600/web-7894.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitRBb5QzaiJYy3iT8e6slNWHTyh7-Iib4Qx58X6wYtTHuEoR_k3LiNo6QT3LNAkHtLd1Q_W5DkuQp85Jl9yy_bIc0KD7tSTU2O1_Go6eXhOcMRSDNB3ehmHHA-Eq91Bz70rxE_UPW9oh4/s640/web-7894.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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- and now that the festivities have ended,</div>
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I'm so very thankful that I work for a university that closes </div>
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for the week between Christmas and the new year.</div>
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- for this quiet time -</div>
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I am joining Michelle for <a href="http://itsasmalltownlife.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Thankful Thursday</a></div>
Karen Lakishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14493883087361055962noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2431138810354483465.post-58626383353340710272017-12-21T06:30:00.000-05:002017-12-21T14:36:53.886-05:00ever elusive sunset<div style="text-align: center;">
Here on the east coast - I often think of photographing the sunrise</div>
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- but rarely a sunset</div>
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Our view to the east is - well - prettier</div>
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- besides, I am normally busy at work when the sun sets<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3qQD5PKCb5sxTGX5Prs2GNQDfWLJ_9KrrNd1EopLyis6Vaa5SCCq_u-fmKfFS3tcR8KdYs0qb7VApqOka1iXKtiWPg5DhLkoX05vkZ3u0DBHMcKgdKuOYhe4t8lQoXGn7XFbI56wwGI8/s1600/web-7835-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3qQD5PKCb5sxTGX5Prs2GNQDfWLJ_9KrrNd1EopLyis6Vaa5SCCq_u-fmKfFS3tcR8KdYs0qb7VApqOka1iXKtiWPg5DhLkoX05vkZ3u0DBHMcKgdKuOYhe4t8lQoXGn7XFbI56wwGI8/s640/web-7835-4.jpg" width="512" /></a></div>
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Just take the afternoon off - <i>I thought</i></div>
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combine Christmas shopping with a sunset photoshoot - <i>I thought</i></div>
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find an open area - <i>I thought</i></div>
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two birds with one stone - <i>I thought</i></div>
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Yeah, well, shopping <i>was</i> awesome</div>
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- sunset photoshoot - not so much </div>
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- too many buildings in the city - who knew?</div>
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The golden glow from the late afternoon sun was pretty, though<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil_8l-nkpk4JfhwTOPZp82nb7tK4GLx5eGAT5IQTlTv4V2xb1qU6-zW7NwQF9Dq1Mn4_5ffbVhlNoSmZvRcLrzq16kTwosLKOb9FPu0W6wDLjVM0Ub1nrW_PdOCMyWz9M01JKAFS8K_5A/s1600/web-7851-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="667" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil_8l-nkpk4JfhwTOPZp82nb7tK4GLx5eGAT5IQTlTv4V2xb1qU6-zW7NwQF9Dq1Mn4_5ffbVhlNoSmZvRcLrzq16kTwosLKOb9FPu0W6wDLjVM0Ub1nrW_PdOCMyWz9M01JKAFS8K_5A/s640/web-7851-2.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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and making time to wander aimlessly,</div>
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is something I am so very thankful for during this busy time of year.</div>
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Sunset... to be continued...<br />
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I am joining Michelle for <a href="http://itsasmalltownlife.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Thankful Thursday</a></div>
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This is likely my last post before Christmas</div>
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I wish you all a very happy, safe holiday - however you celebrate!</div>
Karen Lakishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14493883087361055962noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2431138810354483465.post-89526579309556787472017-12-14T08:12:00.002-05:002017-12-15T19:03:01.771-05:00family holidays<div style="text-align: center;">
As the weather turn cold</div>
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and the hustle and bustle of the holiday season is upon us</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN7SKvhg1EjuWRDJtLOKIEV3rX1FQSIuBqtdyJEJ-pEGXuaqVzmj5AKoKIOsczpVUurb1DT63BtzwOGJo6DSbTyUGHvDUg4ui8c6gNFXDDAm6thNQu2VUgJXj1M_LM50jxbSN4_3hSMow/s1600/39009371172_380e74d422_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="667" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN7SKvhg1EjuWRDJtLOKIEV3rX1FQSIuBqtdyJEJ-pEGXuaqVzmj5AKoKIOsczpVUurb1DT63BtzwOGJo6DSbTyUGHvDUg4ui8c6gNFXDDAm6thNQu2VUgJXj1M_LM50jxbSN4_3hSMow/s640/39009371172_380e74d422_o.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
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I am thankful for a warm home</div>
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and a family to share Christmas with.</div>
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I am joining Michelle for <a href="http://itsasmalltownlife.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Thankful Thursday</a></div>
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Karen Lakishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14493883087361055962noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2431138810354483465.post-69040794885840839042017-12-09T16:34:00.000-05:002017-12-09T19:00:53.119-05:00photo favorites<div style="text-align: center;">
As I am planning my transition to a new blog,<br />
I have been sorting through all my photos<br />
I need some focus...<br />
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Fair warning - this is a long post (for me)<br />
I thought about splitting it in two, but then thought<br />
Nah, let's just go for the gusto<br />
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Some of my favorites photos - to be very frank - are terrible, in a technical sense.<br />
But - they speak to me in one way or another<br />
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So - in no particular order -</div>
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Taken in Laura's hospital room with my iPhone - the lighting was horrendous!</div>
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This photo is a story in itself - and one I will never forget.</div>
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Auntie Maggie meets her newborn niece.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy78jA9GVxH1LhYVDeF0-XzS6Bpf6N97AhA8XIdPP55PLPPMAK8zXoDbLMpQhwFTnhan7Tr3wIj002VRpbC8pZgbNyVThWkoNTCPZnYoZb-ABwkfdx4yPa-34nmPYJFrBZ5VAstigQJIU/s1600/web--13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="661" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy78jA9GVxH1LhYVDeF0-XzS6Bpf6N97AhA8XIdPP55PLPPMAK8zXoDbLMpQhwFTnhan7Tr3wIj002VRpbC8pZgbNyVThWkoNTCPZnYoZb-ABwkfdx4yPa-34nmPYJFrBZ5VAstigQJIU/s640/web--13.jpg" width="422" /></a></div>
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One of my early Vermont photos, and still one of my favorites -</div>
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This is Vermont - weathered sugar shack, rusty pickup truck and muted gray sky</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHI3Wj0SBH_jmJ1VwD4J5g9lzotkhuuDnkWkuSOUi6b1MRE9XnpaaesIb6uVhvR-LGWHK00goZLWw5tP1xiQPsstMu-QrlBPbLVk2EHZpXx2lgifDRoV-QZOBTCYRmysuWMPNFalZJdLg/s1600/web--15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHI3Wj0SBH_jmJ1VwD4J5g9lzotkhuuDnkWkuSOUi6b1MRE9XnpaaesIb6uVhvR-LGWHK00goZLWw5tP1xiQPsstMu-QrlBPbLVk2EHZpXx2lgifDRoV-QZOBTCYRmysuWMPNFalZJdLg/s640/web--15.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Okay - yeah - I don't know. I don't even like the colors very well</div>
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- but, it's a path, and paths speak to me</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG8_C0vkCjgn1ix7oK5nirnmzsMiQHAYSK5by8fb2edCbeHHZLg6LE6Y7o0vXjJVxJpkFxAh0-qETbgzmY0NzkrlQ6aGLnSyIgcY5O1f4sD4YfVldkkj6yCElTFgzX-Iga7jucy4THFmQ/s1600/web-6760.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="714" data-original-width="1000" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG8_C0vkCjgn1ix7oK5nirnmzsMiQHAYSK5by8fb2edCbeHHZLg6LE6Y7o0vXjJVxJpkFxAh0-qETbgzmY0NzkrlQ6aGLnSyIgcY5O1f4sD4YfVldkkj6yCElTFgzX-Iga7jucy4THFmQ/s640/web-6760.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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A quiet afternoon - Greg with our infant granddaughter.</div>
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Enough said.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp-eD89SMvJo2EqKN9aWV7onY-4oj7fEVAV2CetZ4wUkvKkc-RQadJ-cHZimvr8vZVz_ECYxFcxAphzqe16hE92n6tsOkGKpwMt6Y7lLZp_xmS2xywEgb59OLnnAwopi5Pqm5xXPlkWtY/s1600/web-7180.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp-eD89SMvJo2EqKN9aWV7onY-4oj7fEVAV2CetZ4wUkvKkc-RQadJ-cHZimvr8vZVz_ECYxFcxAphzqe16hE92n6tsOkGKpwMt6Y7lLZp_xmS2xywEgb59OLnnAwopi5Pqm5xXPlkWtY/s640/web-7180.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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As it turns out - as much as I like snapping photos of barns,</div>
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I like old school houses even better.</div>
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Greg and I stumbled on this one room schoolhouse and returned to catch it in the early morning light. I goofed with the ISO, but tell myself that the added noise enhances the old-time feel.</div>
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I'm sticking with that...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglBR1CNIJhEiLl0QpMRZbsJ-m50j9XHGeaUvfbxzj2Hr4LFAE71W-4RuWAjidoDuhhbkZfSXMZOajKrdf5kf5tC9DzMQoTwUaY3kMOFCA6m5UBZmctlAXlDJchW-0g-kSeHKb_TGqG_TY/s1600/web-2565-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglBR1CNIJhEiLl0QpMRZbsJ-m50j9XHGeaUvfbxzj2Hr4LFAE71W-4RuWAjidoDuhhbkZfSXMZOajKrdf5kf5tC9DzMQoTwUaY3kMOFCA6m5UBZmctlAXlDJchW-0g-kSeHKb_TGqG_TY/s640/web-2565-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
Okay - so I don't even know these people<br />
It was a relatively quiet day at the beach and I was watching the colorful kite<br />
- then noticed the little girl - the joy in her arms, reaching for the kite<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaHaG5uAT-Vd6-2kKQbynkMUHFzZycKW1PaHv5Kca7-CzS-xqQjeDJQP4ypeFcErdoH1SQ5WGrYu2rJlWZDtpROBbCumEZBam4ikKSk6GK8HkowUHlLNBPRgRinAMglyHo-AsKJBwfiBA/s1600/web-2369.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaHaG5uAT-Vd6-2kKQbynkMUHFzZycKW1PaHv5Kca7-CzS-xqQjeDJQP4ypeFcErdoH1SQ5WGrYu2rJlWZDtpROBbCumEZBam4ikKSk6GK8HkowUHlLNBPRgRinAMglyHo-AsKJBwfiBA/s640/web-2369.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Taken with my iPhone - I love everything about this photo.</div>
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Attending my nephew's wedding, the sun setting beyond the trees cast a soft radiance.</div>
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Laura loves being a mother, and Ella is a happy baby - smiling at her dad, outside the frame.</div>
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Sooo - there you have it<br />
- these are my favorites and not necessarily my best -<br />
The selection process wasn't easy - it would seem that I have a preference for soft lighting, quiet settings, and family scenes -<br />
and - if you have been following me for any length of time,</div>
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you will probably remember me saying - more than once</div>
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I DON'T DO PEOPLE</div>
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well - time to learn...</div>
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If your photos have a theme, what would it be?<br />
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<i>Thanks for dropping in!</i></div>
</div>
Karen Lakishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14493883087361055962noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2431138810354483465.post-63687304150656896452017-12-07T12:17:00.000-05:002017-12-07T12:17:36.638-05:00thankful<div style="text-align: center;">
"Look around, breathe in, and be thankful" - unknown</div>
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<br /></div>
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For the last three months that we've had our puppy, Chessie,</div>
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I have had early morning walk duty - my choice.</div>
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Most mornings, it's still dark when we venture out</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ5_olVpiNGhPyCxc-60fpt1olBv8td4qJsRF5BLcwt2WX0q7uQA87WLoDQVg-l9g3PstS2bdfY1Wbs09YCGKgQ7K4zfMTRqNLGYBs-OpyvTKxuc8WrGTaCCx3TB6eezO9pqs_zAgVWz4/s1600/web-7591.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="667" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ5_olVpiNGhPyCxc-60fpt1olBv8td4qJsRF5BLcwt2WX0q7uQA87WLoDQVg-l9g3PstS2bdfY1Wbs09YCGKgQ7K4zfMTRqNLGYBs-OpyvTKxuc8WrGTaCCx3TB6eezO9pqs_zAgVWz4/s640/web-7591.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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Weekend mornings - Chessie seems to enjoy "sleeping in" as much as I do,</div>
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and we postpone our walk until the sun begins to rise</div>
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- and a paintbrush has splashed it's colors against the sky.</div>
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<br /></div>
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I am thankful for these early morning walks with my pup,</div>
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and the awe I feel at the beauty surrounding me.</div>
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I am joining Michelle for <a href="http://itsasmalltownlife.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Thankful Thursday</a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Photo-challenge #23 - quote</span></div>
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Karen Lakishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14493883087361055962noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2431138810354483465.post-38731044293835622012017-12-03T08:00:00.000-05:002017-12-03T08:00:18.128-05:00scene and story - november<div style="text-align: center;">
It was just one year ago - last Thanksgiving -</div>
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that Laura and Jeff announced an upcoming addition to our family.</div>
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A couple of months later, my niece and her husband made a similar announcement.</div>
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With much excitement and anticipation, we looked forward our holiday get-together<br />
- two new babies for Thanksgiving dinner!</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkyBlYYHHbyL7pAIYOXbAy1Hpa2laSj8y-vYUCokWKEcYmvRJQnBPDejybiub90LD4TD2yni6A9Z_K8ag_zbJVdgwFRtCR4aFRHLHwG9dSIOlxrWOUzqzuomYN3UkC7H524K6LGYF9AXQ/s1600/web-7702-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkyBlYYHHbyL7pAIYOXbAy1Hpa2laSj8y-vYUCokWKEcYmvRJQnBPDejybiub90LD4TD2yni6A9Z_K8ag_zbJVdgwFRtCR4aFRHLHwG9dSIOlxrWOUzqzuomYN3UkC7H524K6LGYF9AXQ/s640/web-7702-4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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So - what do you get when you decide to photograph two babies propped in chair?<br />
- two toppling tykes<br />
- a gaggle of grownups with cameras<br />
- a bunch of perfectly imperfect photos<br />
- and a whole lot of laughs<br />
<br />
I am still amazed - and dazed - at the whirlwind that was this past year<br />
- and the wonderful way in which our family has morphed.<br />
<br />
It's going to be a lot of fun watching these two cousins grow together<br />
- and with any luck our next photo will include our third family addition,<br />
- our labrador puppy -<br />
yeah - adding an exuberant 50 pound pup to this shoot seemed a bit like a recipe for chaos<br />
- and so - this was November in a nutshell.<br />
<br />
I am joining <a href="http://paisleyrainboots.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sarah</a> and <a href="https://seabluelens.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Leon</a> for <a href="http://paisleyrainboots.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Scene and Story</a></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Thanks for dropping in!</i></div>
</div>
Karen Lakishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14493883087361055962noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2431138810354483465.post-82023939717987480372017-11-23T07:00:00.000-05:002017-11-23T07:00:07.687-05:00thankful for giving thanks<div style="text-align: center;">
I hope your preparations are going well,</div>
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and you are enjoying your thanksgiving holiday<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYQRDYBUKf8EJDJnEwiE9EGDgJvi1aq8LACZr0uEMqxLq3rwhLUawgpdktaDUsyIG7tIDQ2k4hlRTY_QlgfnaLdmQMgZBbzkOTQ5CyfZjfRsErpdC22ZHqrL6swgrCruRuodqRw6zNP7U/s1600/web-7683.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYQRDYBUKf8EJDJnEwiE9EGDgJvi1aq8LACZr0uEMqxLq3rwhLUawgpdktaDUsyIG7tIDQ2k4hlRTY_QlgfnaLdmQMgZBbzkOTQ5CyfZjfRsErpdC22ZHqrL6swgrCruRuodqRw6zNP7U/s640/web-7683.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I am thankful for this day of giving thanks</div>
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- a day to take a step back - reflect</div>
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-enjoy good food and family.</div>
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Have a wonderful thanksgiving,</div>
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however you choose to celebrate!<br />
<br />
I am joining Michelle for <a href="http://itsasmalltownlife.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Thankful Thursday</a><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Photo-challenge #22 flowers</span></div>
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Karen Lakishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14493883087361055962noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2431138810354483465.post-6481965073962648022017-11-16T08:00:00.000-05:002017-11-16T08:09:17.778-05:00thankful thursday - thanksgiving and family<div style="text-align: center;">
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Flowers in my window</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyImf7imaVMyVyXKHf96Xq73cd0qCJpUwP7qu_GyGGpz-ZsoKAbXkfJqcqTw88Bt_q64yGBJJBo4h_Cn5uIW7orCkED8gCHb2i0-LHZOHW65bX8iuAERNJ2EFx9ZNqpwYz7_RCsKsrgkc/s1600/web-7583.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="667" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyImf7imaVMyVyXKHf96Xq73cd0qCJpUwP7qu_GyGGpz-ZsoKAbXkfJqcqTw88Bt_q64yGBJJBo4h_Cn5uIW7orCkED8gCHb2i0-LHZOHW65bX8iuAERNJ2EFx9ZNqpwYz7_RCsKsrgkc/s640/web-7583.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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in my usual Monday morning bleary-eyed state,</div>
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I chatted with my commuter train friends.</div>
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One mentioned getting ready for Thanksgiving - next week</div>
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Me: Nooooo - it's <i>not</i> next week!</div>
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Commuter friends smile - exchange glances - nod</div>
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Me (insistent): But it can't be! Don't we have two more weekends?</div>
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(there may have been a teensy bit of whining, there)</div>
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Commuter stranger in the next seat looks up from her laptop: No - it's next week</div>
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Me: sigh - I haven't even thought about food yet...</div>
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So, yes - Thanksgiving is next week</div>
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- and I am thankful for that</div>
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The shopping and meal preparation will get done</div>
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- and the table set</div>
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I am looking forward to dinner and a few extra days with my family.</div>
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(and our annual tractor parade - it's a Vermont thing)</div>
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<br /></div>
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I am joining Michelle for<a href="http://itsasmalltownlife.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"> Thankful Thursday</a></div>
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<i>Thanks for dropping in!</i></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Photo challenge #20 - Bokeh</span></div>
Karen Lakishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14493883087361055962noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2431138810354483465.post-49918237294538230842017-11-12T08:00:00.000-05:002017-11-12T08:00:03.741-05:00photo challenge #19 - shoes<div style="text-align: center;">
Ummmm - yeah - about that photo challenge...<br />
I left off with week 18 - "week off"</div>
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which, as it turns out - I truly excel at.</div>
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- I've done that prompt repeatedly for - oh, I don't know, lots of weeks...</div>
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<br />
So - in the spirit of keep on keeping on...<br />
my prompt for this week - shoes<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRNCszRSvaToLNZKoR5g84Y_abtpTG5bGFjO4Gi__CIx04tmvuTFCiwt4Qmwvg-axMOjXokLyuKHFX1elXF3pc_cRIa-53jHikYVvqXWmYaJRavdSGDYdYdTOnwvZN8u_O8OMJpePIRiU/s1600/web-7170-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRNCszRSvaToLNZKoR5g84Y_abtpTG5bGFjO4Gi__CIx04tmvuTFCiwt4Qmwvg-axMOjXokLyuKHFX1elXF3pc_cRIa-53jHikYVvqXWmYaJRavdSGDYdYdTOnwvZN8u_O8OMJpePIRiU/s640/web-7170-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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- or rather, a giant pile of ski boots</div>
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- Okay, so I'm really not much of a "shoe" person...</div>
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Driving down the road, this mound of boots,<br />
(which is much larger than this photo suggests)<br />
is one of those things that make me go "hmmmmm"<br />
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A friend once told me about visiting the shop next to this pile o' boots,</div>
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hoping to have a buckle repaired on her favorite ski boots.<br />
The clerk explained that the newer boots no longer used the same buckle<br />
- about to turn her away when he ran out to this pile -<br />
and voila - a replacement buckle was found.<br />
<br />
So - yeah - that is all I know about this mountain of boots,<br />
except that every time I drive by, I kinda, sorta, wanta throw my old ones on top.<br />
<br />
next up - Bokeh<br />
<br /></div>
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Thanks for dropping in - I wish you a wonderful day!</div>
Karen Lakishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14493883087361055962noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2431138810354483465.post-70980731978315392542017-11-09T08:30:00.000-05:002017-11-09T08:30:04.064-05:00acadia sunrise<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The quiet beauty of an Acadia sunrise</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQzdt3fHisEPxkDOBNAiPfaakqYE3wTWoudTUmDJV6Vp4DToKsQTy-Y78AzFVNZMjcDyZrdJn6-RuPBAT_3ssfJtqv-4LZcl01vyaLSIAYWOpFT2Z3PO4Nlp2P6scIurbqs8Ot-av75ig/s1600/web-7393.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="667" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQzdt3fHisEPxkDOBNAiPfaakqYE3wTWoudTUmDJV6Vp4DToKsQTy-Y78AzFVNZMjcDyZrdJn6-RuPBAT_3ssfJtqv-4LZcl01vyaLSIAYWOpFT2Z3PO4Nlp2P6scIurbqs8Ot-av75ig/s640/web-7393.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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Last summer I created my bucket list of National Parks.</div>
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Excited to get started, Greg and I headed to Acadia National Park with our new puppy</div>
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for a weekend of camping.</div>
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I am not much of a camper, and even less of a morning person,</div>
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but this Acadia sunrise is one I will remember for many years to come.</div>
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(and the cup of coffee, afterwards, at the dog friendly Coffee Hound Coffee Bar</div>
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in Bar Harbor was pretty great, too)</div>
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I am thankful for every day the sun rises,</div>
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the beauty of our National Parks,</div>
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and quiet moments like this.</div>
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<br /></div>
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I am joining Michelle for <a href="http://itsasmalltownlife.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Thankful Thursday</a></div>
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I hope you have a wonderful day!</div>
Karen Lakishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14493883087361055962noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2431138810354483465.post-75608211910731095842017-11-05T09:11:00.000-05:002017-11-05T09:11:26.929-05:00scene and story - october<div style="text-align: center;">
man and his dog</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkIA6tzMB4RjTxxX2YJ5i4mYJKZ9BECJeL8eMRrRv8WytLB3RKCVHEiDU4VaaKqz8f3-uyr8U3A2ibh8on08zzzr9ZsLA5sS26GDF8AF-o1s5xibwVVOt2-gbsvJUhi4wy61sVIuBM-_s/s1600/web-7428-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkIA6tzMB4RjTxxX2YJ5i4mYJKZ9BECJeL8eMRrRv8WytLB3RKCVHEiDU4VaaKqz8f3-uyr8U3A2ibh8on08zzzr9ZsLA5sS26GDF8AF-o1s5xibwVVOt2-gbsvJUhi4wy61sVIuBM-_s/s640/web-7428-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Many years ago, riding in the car -</div>
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Greg, Maggie, and our old labrador, Lacey -</div>
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- singing to the tunes on the radio (well, probably not Lacey)</div>
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"Now wait a minute Chester, you know, I'm a peaceful man"</div>
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--</div>
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Maggie: Chester! - we should name our next dog Chester</div>
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Greg: - Yes - the perfect name for a lab!</div>
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--</div>
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"Take a load off Fanny, take a load for free"...</div>
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(The Weight by The Band)</div>
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--</div>
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So, we waited several years, and finally have another dog -</div>
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always remembering about Chester</div>
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And now, October's scene and story is about Greg and our long awaited pup, Chessie -</div>
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hiking on a beautiful Vermont October day.<br />
We're both smitten...</div>
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<br /></div>
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October - also - has been all about the fate of my blog</div>
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I know - it's been a long time since my last post...</div>
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I have lots of excuses -</div>
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too little time - lack of inspiration - poor internet connection...</div>
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yes - all of the above</div>
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- and -</div>
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none of the above</div>
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<br /></div>
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I am having an identity crisis of the blogging variety</div>
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- and yet, I am missing the creative outlet and interaction with my blog friends</div>
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In an email exchange, Sarah - Paisley Rain Boots,</div>
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gave me some fantastic advice:</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">I guess my questions to you are what do you enjoy photographing?...</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Looking back at the photographs you have taken in the last two years, </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">pick out 3-5 favorites and really study them, why do you like them? </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Was it the subject, the light, the lines, the mood?"</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This project is turning out to be both enlightening and fun -<br />
(which I will share in a later post)</div>
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but also confirms for me that "away for the weekend" has run its course</div>
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so as I work towards my next project,</div>
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I plan to just keep on keeping on</div>
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<br /></div>
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Have you ever felt disconnected from your blog?</div>
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Thoughts? ideas?</div>
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I would love to hear from you!<br />
<br />
I am joining <a href="http://paisleyrainboots.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sarah</a> and <a href="https://seabluelens.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Leon</a> for Scene and Story</div>
Karen Lakishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14493883087361055962noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2431138810354483465.post-14759761401533897152017-07-04T09:40:00.000-04:002017-07-04T09:40:56.980-04:00scene and story - june<div style="text-align: center;">
Well.....</div>
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This wasn't exactly what I was going for</div>
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- but, then...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm2pnXpuP754ZJAYYtm8q5CfYEu-aaEojkOg1P8uHEhOII3QPsqjprtl_eN1xrgYLSQSwM8C2sbxL_g0HqCkKmRNexnWDAbiCmOy8v621bjQEcDnW543QQqIiWfoWVb9VzpQ-CsJZ3IVs/s1600/web-7206.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm2pnXpuP754ZJAYYtm8q5CfYEu-aaEojkOg1P8uHEhOII3QPsqjprtl_eN1xrgYLSQSwM8C2sbxL_g0HqCkKmRNexnWDAbiCmOy8v621bjQEcDnW543QQqIiWfoWVb9VzpQ-CsJZ3IVs/s640/web-7206.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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this <b><i>was</i></b> my June</div>
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- blurry, but pretty and colorful all the same</div>
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My month started out with crazy, busy work deadlines,</div>
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the birth of our first granddaughter</div>
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- yeah, she's pretty much the sweetest baby ever -</div>
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(I may be a teensy bit biased)</div>
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- and ended with a much needed week off -</div>
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and a celebration for Greg's career transition -</div>
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many changes ahead...</div>
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On this particular day, Greg and I hiked to Stratton Pond in Vermont</div>
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It was <i>the </i>perfect day to roam around the woods,</div>
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picnic by the pond, at catch a much needed breath.</div>
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With any luck, July will be a bit more focused</div>
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- and while June passed by in a blur, it was a pretty wonderful month</div>
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I'm joining <a href="http://paisleyrainboots.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sarah</a> and <a href="https://seabluelens.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Leon</a> for Scene and story</div>
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Have a wonderful, safe, 4th of July!</div>
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Karen Lakishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14493883087361055962noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2431138810354483465.post-70865784384271780312017-06-15T05:00:00.000-04:002017-06-15T05:00:25.987-04:00bundle of joy<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm thankful for this little bundle of joy</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
one week old, today</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
She has stolen my heart - and already, I can't imagine life without her</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ULDhzbk_Ng2U5o1lBL6uP4CVGXPGGpeinzuYyMC5lmhjTIHKGYqiW8nE_tIPefbZdSvp5fwN7NqgaG1dMArnIIlbRi1WkTFjoxcRMF1fsCpGc86WYKmJjtScu5DMYCQE8K4aEPBfnyo/s1600/web--10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="714" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ULDhzbk_Ng2U5o1lBL6uP4CVGXPGGpeinzuYyMC5lmhjTIHKGYqiW8nE_tIPefbZdSvp5fwN7NqgaG1dMArnIIlbRi1WkTFjoxcRMF1fsCpGc86WYKmJjtScu5DMYCQE8K4aEPBfnyo/s640/web--10.jpg" width="456" /></a></div>
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Our first grandchild - and according to Mommy, Daddy, and Auntie -</div>
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quite likely our only...</div>
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Yeah - that's okay</div>
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I couldn't be any more thankful!<br />
<br />
I am joining Michelle for <a href="http://itsasmalltownlife.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Thankful Thursday</a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Thanks for dropping in!</i></div>
</div>
Karen Lakishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14493883087361055962noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2431138810354483465.post-45864819663917407152017-06-08T06:00:00.000-04:002017-06-08T06:00:32.191-04:00strolling heifers<div style="text-align: center;">
Heifers in tutus? You bet!</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrNVL9G5dsPrVY0eepaYbtCB9mJZbaE2vex1lNHnoErdQmJbxkYmeLGXiXoiJ-63rfIfyAVm8jlhGQbHnt6GG6fsuznF8foSGZrhZaWvamd8a25w0l5tjVpwrtN5NoMe70g00gGa-LODU/s1600/web-7042.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrNVL9G5dsPrVY0eepaYbtCB9mJZbaE2vex1lNHnoErdQmJbxkYmeLGXiXoiJ-63rfIfyAVm8jlhGQbHnt6GG6fsuznF8foSGZrhZaWvamd8a25w0l5tjVpwrtN5NoMe70g00gGa-LODU/s640/web-7042.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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and stroll, they did</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYrvKExBfREiXpXBzJxxvaf6EI9I4KmhdwAHmLJLMaB5HHjppbhMpQVDWZyEm2Xg_fgLi6dRI7UcL_BlHjqtR_IFLZYJoWYD13zwLxTatE162rp1Qw3A01XTL5PqyQsTv4HTWcqvh7_oU/s1600/web-7057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYrvKExBfREiXpXBzJxxvaf6EI9I4KmhdwAHmLJLMaB5HHjppbhMpQVDWZyEm2Xg_fgLi6dRI7UcL_BlHjqtR_IFLZYJoWYD13zwLxTatE162rp1Qw3A01XTL5PqyQsTv4HTWcqvh7_oU/s640/web-7057.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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through downtown Brattleboro, Vermont</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM4kibgbtXQdWIuH9EH6j3P4trEa4Wbo8ii-kCpKHtKpPnPqzio-1KyF1BYVpoyNTNkKAFMnmvnkrrjvh6xrt5_fTMpOHpbzAeGPuwo5DVA5SnOxHo4OnUpUKjWnvW1sU6jUICuKnhThw/s1600/web-7075.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM4kibgbtXQdWIuH9EH6j3P4trEa4Wbo8ii-kCpKHtKpPnPqzio-1KyF1BYVpoyNTNkKAFMnmvnkrrjvh6xrt5_fTMpOHpbzAeGPuwo5DVA5SnOxHo4OnUpUKjWnvW1sU6jUICuKnhThw/s640/web-7075.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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some preferred flower necklaces</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigZV_VUsl8y2Zrm6Pw8e6eC-TyBo8_om7rFr6SA1TLfXNecEsqqoc239tar_jvQZbCrQuU2sVYs0kO9_4xA3vXnC6dOERok311gCH-ZANS3CTuYTGSBb4XBJ7BKX7f5ykxCS897nupraM/s1600/web-7034-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigZV_VUsl8y2Zrm6Pw8e6eC-TyBo8_om7rFr6SA1TLfXNecEsqqoc239tar_jvQZbCrQuU2sVYs0kO9_4xA3vXnC6dOERok311gCH-ZANS3CTuYTGSBb4XBJ7BKX7f5ykxCS897nupraM/s640/web-7034-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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No heifer to stroll through town with?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTrWC043LuQotxdlArkCLmAgQBru7VCf9doI4_9FHHVTNBeVWmyK-EOcLlAn4Hqp2h6pQY-aEwq_DQHUeZYJNXbI-5wmK_9rea5rhgOBoHDxv3IxFXKJYy6wWGWh5wG5ln8093xlUduMk/s1600/web-7119.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTrWC043LuQotxdlArkCLmAgQBru7VCf9doI4_9FHHVTNBeVWmyK-EOcLlAn4Hqp2h6pQY-aEwq_DQHUeZYJNXbI-5wmK_9rea5rhgOBoHDxv3IxFXKJYy6wWGWh5wG5ln8093xlUduMk/s640/web-7119.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
- just don a heifer costume - and dress your pig in a tutu, instead!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
- yeah, this is Vermont - it's all good!</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4hm1apSB-dcEGGsiHRVtV2Sk0BcEnBgHf_X55ze9sm01Ib30Rbj1nUXiIDTNddV0D7Fna150nahXF8D7LSkQKpx59p3yxd0ouOU95HwFC_wvhTth35P3BvIKyAFq1A38oa1PJAFpsHcQ/s1600/web-7146.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4hm1apSB-dcEGGsiHRVtV2Sk0BcEnBgHf_X55ze9sm01Ib30Rbj1nUXiIDTNddV0D7Fna150nahXF8D7LSkQKpx59p3yxd0ouOU95HwFC_wvhTth35P3BvIKyAFq1A38oa1PJAFpsHcQ/s640/web-7146.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
the sun and moon made an appearance</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjJbdv9vor3sEnl7BFJDMaMKQW2QoD3UmKHIvb_5KkvWgvbOGBQrPQZXEaGz6qrDx3fVUPV3KVoVA5iEUJCjS-lI3mjL4O-PE94XL8zuk3vokfRDwYYRnrMV5fR8ZIauSVlw824M1rc2Q/s1600/web-7148.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjJbdv9vor3sEnl7BFJDMaMKQW2QoD3UmKHIvb_5KkvWgvbOGBQrPQZXEaGz6qrDx3fVUPV3KVoVA5iEUJCjS-lI3mjL4O-PE94XL8zuk3vokfRDwYYRnrMV5fR8ZIauSVlw824M1rc2Q/s640/web-7148.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
as well as local bands</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQyJIOKzcwHYtE1v9k0w67Y7CpWWhpxhuezQbrjuS-FycTyi7SFMiDmaHfJNbwOHD9JLPOhdiy4F447ADT8A39IxGQHeIZukwrTpT9L9JQPnmwLGG_aNgDSZYQoklbL35W3GojlTToabE/s1600/web-7159-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQyJIOKzcwHYtE1v9k0w67Y7CpWWhpxhuezQbrjuS-FycTyi7SFMiDmaHfJNbwOHD9JLPOhdiy4F447ADT8A39IxGQHeIZukwrTpT9L9JQPnmwLGG_aNgDSZYQoklbL35W3GojlTToabE/s640/web-7159-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
and all of Vermont</div>
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(well, just about all of Vermont)</div>
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Yep - watching heifers stroll makes for some surprising fun.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This may rank up there with our annual tractor parade</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
- I'm already planning for next year...</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm always thankful for the surprises that make me smile!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm joining Michelle for <a href="http://itsasmalltownlife.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Thankful Thursday</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Thanks for dropping in!</i></div>
Karen Lakishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14493883087361055962noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2431138810354483465.post-47542660221953916782017-06-04T09:00:00.000-04:002017-06-04T09:00:48.744-04:00Scene and Story - May<div style="text-align: center;">
Wow - May... it went by in a blink<br />
- yet was full of so much -<br />
Mother's Day, a graduation trip to Arkansas, Laura's 30th birthday party,<br />
and a cup of coffee with my blogging friend, Sarah, at <a href="http://paisleyrainboots.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Paisley Rain Boots!</a><br />
This was our first time meeting face-to-face, but felt like getting together with an old friend.<br />
- And since I dumbly took no photos (I know, right?),<br />
I'll share my story of playing at being a photographer...<br />
<br />
"But I don't photograph people"</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhil2nRoDkW7XEK6WrFqoccPsvDO7fqP_tyVYXi_pPm85HPLSdUcJwwS3RwjRzTqHaXLJa9OAwgpqADCI616gx7EEKERKPSb5oSiSF3i8ZY7arT4nDIHYrEvOD20UCZt3HYxBG4b7rGd9E/s1600/web-6915.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhil2nRoDkW7XEK6WrFqoccPsvDO7fqP_tyVYXi_pPm85HPLSdUcJwwS3RwjRzTqHaXLJa9OAwgpqADCI616gx7EEKERKPSb5oSiSF3i8ZY7arT4nDIHYrEvOD20UCZt3HYxBG4b7rGd9E/s640/web-6915.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Yeah - that was my reply when Laura asked me to take photos of Jeff and her.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A maternity photo shoot - so to speak.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ummmm - I don't do people, and I stand by that.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Don't worry," Jeff remarked, "Laura doesn't want a photo shoot</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
- she just wants One. Perfect. Photo".</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Haha - yeah well, I'm not sure about that,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
but we did have a lot of laughs - in between all those awkward poses<br />
- and we caught a few cute candids.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I really do have a new appreciation for photographers who do this work.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So - my advice to the parents-to-be<br />
When the baby actually arrives<br />
- and they want that One. Perfect. Photo</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hire a real photographer!!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But this was kinda-sorta fun, anyway.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am joining <a href="http://paisleyrainboots.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sarah</a> and <a href="https://seabluelens.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Leon</a> for Scene and Story</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Thanks for dropping in!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Karen Lakishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14493883087361055962noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2431138810354483465.post-30190879501875436852017-06-01T05:30:00.000-04:002017-06-01T05:30:08.962-04:00thankful thursday<div style="text-align: center;">
So yeah, work is still crazy, and life has been crazy</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
- and I'm just a wee bit stressed out about, oh - just about everything</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
- but we all know how that goes sometimes</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
- and this blogging break of mine has gone on for far too long</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
- so it's time I give myself a swift kick in the pants (figuratively speaking, of course)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and get back to it!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHgK35r2Z8utDR0IWv9hSIjN5wRgH4L6slQMrssPXBBaqrXUK2eKa15sax0wI2lU6XBDD1pzNtr_2AfCvMAfXmJnr1bqyOYOXiXsw33xlc_0o5n2242wbS7XpjMA55lTg9OIxMS1KXVa4/s1600/web-6996.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHgK35r2Z8utDR0IWv9hSIjN5wRgH4L6slQMrssPXBBaqrXUK2eKa15sax0wI2lU6XBDD1pzNtr_2AfCvMAfXmJnr1bqyOYOXiXsw33xlc_0o5n2242wbS7XpjMA55lTg9OIxMS1KXVa4/s640/web-6996.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
anyway - </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
last weekend we had the fortune of having family and friends join us at Away<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl3WimoP64fIfyptQu_y67W37eGZtFwfPthJkrCyxZLUO1bhlQ_lr9fwP7oJ6t7UavnEtvQlI8i9Z6DjeRF5w-c4GOeIafTv9PVqEBzyVZ2AVIpzhJiXAO1Vy8agBMgPdt9FxFzPnxRNE/s1600/web-6983-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="667" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl3WimoP64fIfyptQu_y67W37eGZtFwfPthJkrCyxZLUO1bhlQ_lr9fwP7oJ6t7UavnEtvQlI8i9Z6DjeRF5w-c4GOeIafTv9PVqEBzyVZ2AVIpzhJiXAO1Vy8agBMgPdt9FxFzPnxRNE/s640/web-6983-2.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
where we enjoyed exploring a newly reopened (pedestrians only) covered bridge</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipUdLJjmm_p_fV4uiRx-tL-4IuqFJRDBhma3d1L7khZDGgY2izAGozRhnJzEEtJgRrJXvlwO_wrTADTsQsIRG8BZGojoJXKsWx0osNHpQa6nVp8HisIvYKoo475YoRs4F9rPxjP303lYU/s1600/web-6979.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipUdLJjmm_p_fV4uiRx-tL-4IuqFJRDBhma3d1L7khZDGgY2izAGozRhnJzEEtJgRrJXvlwO_wrTADTsQsIRG8BZGojoJXKsWx0osNHpQa6nVp8HisIvYKoo475YoRs4F9rPxjP303lYU/s640/web-6979.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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with beautiful vistas</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh0ou9ib7ajKKdoYEjfj_Aqkgb7wJZdkr8raDsfhx8_Z89ZyCIY9HdjhJm8Q6cgUtuYd-b7_QR18c3SHPC2yMGehi6cbMZij5RcGN6RQWsAJ8QXFphRoJUOH94QmmYUTBLRdRcLz-uQfk/s1600/web-6992-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh0ou9ib7ajKKdoYEjfj_Aqkgb7wJZdkr8raDsfhx8_Z89ZyCIY9HdjhJm8Q6cgUtuYd-b7_QR18c3SHPC2yMGehi6cbMZij5RcGN6RQWsAJ8QXFphRoJUOH94QmmYUTBLRdRcLz-uQfk/s640/web-6992-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I was very excited to hear this bridge had reopened</div>
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- it's the little things...</div>
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and as always, I'm so thankful to have special people in my life to explore with</div>
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<br /></div>
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So - this coming weekend is the <a href="http://www.strollingoftheheifers.com/strolling-of-the-heifers-parade/" target="_blank">Strolling of the Heifers</a></div>
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- not sure I can miss <i>that</i> excitement!</div>
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How about you - are you looking forward to weekend plans?</div>
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I'm joining Michelle for <a href="http://itsasmalltownlife.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Thankful Thursday</a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<i>Thanks for dropping in!</i></div>
Karen Lakishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14493883087361055962noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2431138810354483465.post-63823620965885353342017-04-20T21:10:00.001-04:002017-04-20T21:10:36.702-04:00thankful thursday<div style="text-align: center;">
Hey - it's a beautiful day, let's take the kayaks out!</div>
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Or - maybe not...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixLv1tzY9L-Mx_-kGRiHB9RNS_n9poGA3jiQNjDc3MJH_u69QwnyltmELMMRwgYDCtv8ySfJuLuWZJmM8zymom9yAA27xxCwtCZTEbhHmGx-9wSzze6qmpKAmWLz34Vk1Ovv05OX5Y6CU/s1600/web-1988.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixLv1tzY9L-Mx_-kGRiHB9RNS_n9poGA3jiQNjDc3MJH_u69QwnyltmELMMRwgYDCtv8ySfJuLuWZJmM8zymom9yAA27xxCwtCZTEbhHmGx-9wSzze6qmpKAmWLz34Vk1Ovv05OX5Y6CU/s640/web-1988.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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While the thermometer may read 80 degrees</div>
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- the pond reads FROZEN</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiYsZ-xiGwzwQ8hcyrAXnu-2nQbMr9TqzCxbHE8B3QH_lwJQVYfw8z1y64SC6qcNga25BtILtL8SIcUzXjB5VKNfsSo52IYJiMVvyryeukFGklCW4J_qHj6JjDyoxQ6LeEcjABa9f0pQQ/s1600/web-1990.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiYsZ-xiGwzwQ8hcyrAXnu-2nQbMr9TqzCxbHE8B3QH_lwJQVYfw8z1y64SC6qcNga25BtILtL8SIcUzXjB5VKNfsSo52IYJiMVvyryeukFGklCW4J_qHj6JjDyoxQ6LeEcjABa9f0pQQ/s640/web-1990.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
- as in solid...</div>
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- winter hangs tough in Vermont...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFKNvmZab6QbPpEwpurCWLiSwgUnFuEm8fowk7-yxb_s4P8pFtLaGoCm3cx7lpkmAPXBSej57iOD9cT21ACd3jhSsIDHVMXzUrKgOmwps72YSftpFxV4zWQ8AI3-DjpCY1YPj8JaG7DL0/s1600/web-1983.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFKNvmZab6QbPpEwpurCWLiSwgUnFuEm8fowk7-yxb_s4P8pFtLaGoCm3cx7lpkmAPXBSej57iOD9cT21ACd3jhSsIDHVMXzUrKgOmwps72YSftpFxV4zWQ8AI3-DjpCY1YPj8JaG7DL0/s640/web-1983.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Yeah - well...</div>
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We did manage to enjoy the day with a hike on one of our favorite trails</div>
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- and a beautiful vista</div>
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which on this Easter afternoon felt like worshiping in the church of nature</div>
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For this day, I am very thankful</div>
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<br /></div>
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- So, I'm pretty sure the pond will thaw - eventually</div>
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- and we will be ready</div>
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Are you as excited as I am to get this summer-thing underway?</div>
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<br /></div>
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I'm joining Michelle for <a href="http://itsasmalltownlife.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Thankful Thursday</a></div>
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<br /></div>
Karen Lakishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14493883087361055962noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2431138810354483465.post-73731535294950828832017-04-13T05:30:00.000-04:002017-04-13T05:30:04.827-04:00photo challenge #17 - bicycle(s)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Before the grass turns green, or flowers bloom -</div>
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a sure sign of spring in my area -</div>
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bicycles at the train station!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgel-6D9GH7NiUEqI2Oa7o-R6K0ghgYX1slleLD5OIow5gqjmnswIFzh5x8hOoTcU12xByY2r1WMfcAmwryVsB4UbomdcnyWD0aeMXi1psbA2JZm6NiYJGzC0P2OQMRMdDp7lR3axknrZM/s1600/web-6883.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgel-6D9GH7NiUEqI2Oa7o-R6K0ghgYX1slleLD5OIow5gqjmnswIFzh5x8hOoTcU12xByY2r1WMfcAmwryVsB4UbomdcnyWD0aeMXi1psbA2JZm6NiYJGzC0P2OQMRMdDp7lR3axknrZM/s640/web-6883.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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We are having our first stretch of spring-like weather, here in New England</div>
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And to think that when I first heard the weather forecast</div>
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- I grumbled - yep grumbled...</div>
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What am I going to wear? and where are my spring clothes, anyway?</div>
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Do I even have any spring clothes?</div>
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Yeah - I must - I'm pretty sure I wore clothes last spring...</div>
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Ummmmmm - yeah...</div>
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will someone please just kick me?!?!</div>
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seriously...</div>
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<br /></div>
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Anyway - all joking aside</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am very thankful for this first sign of spring</div>
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- the beautiful weather</div>
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- sunshine</div>
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- bicycles</div>
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- and the hope for summer ahead</div>
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<br /></div>
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How is spring shaping up in your neck of the woods?</div>
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Are you feeling that little added spring in your step?</div>
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(hmmm - is that where the term "spring" comes from...?)</div>
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<br /></div>
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I'm joining <a href="http://itsasmalltownlife.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Michelle for Thankful Thursday</a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Thanks for dropping in!</i></div>
Karen Lakishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14493883087361055962noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2431138810354483465.post-20287092869398819952017-03-22T05:00:00.000-04:002017-03-22T05:00:21.013-04:00photo challenge #16 - path<div style="text-align: center;">
"Don't confuse your path with your destination;</div>
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just because it's stormy now, doesn't mean you aren't headed for sunshine."</div>
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unknown</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH4p9NVeALryeD-HPCorU_iseB38n71aY6FuWc3uDSfXxlo6qQrNmJWIc9Jsqvwd9-DI-l-tZvIywRmmFsE4TKIyXmI5oRZKKPzul_cPG1KAJ2RBwcWhW9Uv8atT3FcgAN_XHpnzX3MMw/s1600/web-6760.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH4p9NVeALryeD-HPCorU_iseB38n71aY6FuWc3uDSfXxlo6qQrNmJWIc9Jsqvwd9-DI-l-tZvIywRmmFsE4TKIyXmI5oRZKKPzul_cPG1KAJ2RBwcWhW9Uv8atT3FcgAN_XHpnzX3MMw/s640/web-6760.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
This prompt was definitely open for interpretation,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and I wasn't sure whether to approach it literally or symbolically,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
- or maybe a blend of both.<br />
<br />
I'm not actually going through a particularly stormy time,<br />
but I feel that the quote is a good reminder - always - of life's ups and downs.<br />
as well as a good fit for my photo<br />
- which got me thinking -<br />
wouldn't it be a good challenge to choose a quote or saying that has personal meaning<br />
and then try to photograph it?<br />
just a thought</div>
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<br /></div>
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Of the many quotes I read about "path", though,</div>
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unfortunately - the one that resonated the most with me is a Chinese proverb:</div>
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"I dreamed a thousand new paths. I woke and walked my old one."<br />
Hmmm - not sure how I'd photograph that one...<br />
<br />
It's the time of year in collegiate budgetland where my workday life is getting a bit hectic.<br />
I've definitely walked this path before - but it gets a little easier each time.<br />
My posts will likely be sporadic, but I will enjoy visiting yours!</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And then - the words of J.R.R. Tolkien remind me that someday - new paths await:</div>
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"Still round the corner there may wait </div>
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A new road or a secret gate;</div>
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And though I oft have passed them by,</div>
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A day will come at last when I </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Shall take the hidden paths that run</div>
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West of the moon, East of the sun."</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
When you think of "path" what images come to your mind?</div>
Karen Lakishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14493883087361055962noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2431138810354483465.post-37332678451998224372017-03-12T07:58:00.000-04:002017-03-12T07:58:01.962-04:00photo challenge #15 - faceless self portrait<div style="text-align: center;">
Plum Island - Massachusetts</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGzBVrj8H7hVVc4dAG0AEINHDcQh8weom-uILa39r6DHJxGA9MhH4mQGRHt7s7gXP67gttde22HeJPe0aTTY_IkAgCO9uk7nf3v7ebp_RPsw-pI20HuwuVzl1WjdQn3bw6p6DWnSz93JQ/s1600/web-6785-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGzBVrj8H7hVVc4dAG0AEINHDcQh8weom-uILa39r6DHJxGA9MhH4mQGRHt7s7gXP67gttde22HeJPe0aTTY_IkAgCO9uk7nf3v7ebp_RPsw-pI20HuwuVzl1WjdQn3bw6p6DWnSz93JQ/s640/web-6785-4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
After a couple of false starts,<br />
I finally managed to get into a groove.<br />
The Parker River National Wildlife Refuge covers a large portion of Plum Island.<br />
Popular with bird watchers, I crossed paths with several photographers<br />
carrying cameras sporting what looked like (to me) gazillion millimeter zoom lenses.<br />
Yeah - don't mind me - I'm just here to shoot a selfie...<br />
<br />
I was determined to do this challenge outdoors, though<br />
- and was relieved to find a spot away from the other beach-goers<br />
- a spot where I didn't feel <i>completely</i> self-conscious.<br />
The real bonus - as someone who tends to frown at the camera -<br />
shooting a faceless self-portrait is definitely the way to go!<br />
<br />
Next up - Path<br />
<br />
Have a great day!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Thanks for dropping in!</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Canon EOS REBEL T3i</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">EF24-105mm F/4L IS USM</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">ISO 400</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">40 mm 1/2000 sec at f/6.3</span></div>
</div>
Karen Lakishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14493883087361055962noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2431138810354483465.post-3601120010290060362017-03-09T05:00:00.000-05:002017-03-09T05:00:14.931-05:00thankful thursday - scenes from the coast<div style="text-align: center;">
A rare day off - no obligations,</div>
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and a much neglected camera</div>
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- beckoning me</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf-xCnlx3r-Fvz_yJXl2erg90Vx43O-52-W5O85rFX47m-ak0sgQPUZcFfjIvcdDvdTER3PdiLKZWwHDy5v9wzGV0wih35stz-ECEmUtQIXp47Ox6U9GW8OrJ_1VWyPNrDWZN_ELumtfk/s1600/web-6764.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf-xCnlx3r-Fvz_yJXl2erg90Vx43O-52-W5O85rFX47m-ak0sgQPUZcFfjIvcdDvdTER3PdiLKZWwHDy5v9wzGV0wih35stz-ECEmUtQIXp47Ox6U9GW8OrJ_1VWyPNrDWZN_ELumtfk/s640/web-6764.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
My weather app said the rain had cleared<br />
- the sky over Plum Island said otherwise</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWueJgnBFF3GVd9etw8YbeR8dfDT1TaVKLhDb54hPCBLlOxmEfKaJ4ol4p5LiJkmo-CrY_v99V13PUNWCpOAklHU5Jy7aO6GJI3O5zfdymEzaimuxsB00T0VYRFrXmkP6Lfb6bD7ppCTE/s1600/web-6771-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWueJgnBFF3GVd9etw8YbeR8dfDT1TaVKLhDb54hPCBLlOxmEfKaJ4ol4p5LiJkmo-CrY_v99V13PUNWCpOAklHU5Jy7aO6GJI3O5zfdymEzaimuxsB00T0VYRFrXmkP6Lfb6bD7ppCTE/s640/web-6771-3.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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I probably don't need to tell you which was correct,</div>
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and which I ignored - necessitating a quick dash back to my car</div>
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(which on a sandy beach is neither quick, nor dash-like...)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP35Ak0-Qrsv2GVwLRBPFIzHzlbkqAVbrpqdRyr3SygBVyQ5NIrH_WpZCYOEpAwfhRXu8475b_EN6ufyWV0zW8oDDo6kb_Le7Z87Mxi7RtiNMosgjCmW9k0MZDhTXSt5Jp_pxH8XGlBxM/s1600/web-6824-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP35Ak0-Qrsv2GVwLRBPFIzHzlbkqAVbrpqdRyr3SygBVyQ5NIrH_WpZCYOEpAwfhRXu8475b_EN6ufyWV0zW8oDDo6kb_Le7Z87Mxi7RtiNMosgjCmW9k0MZDhTXSt5Jp_pxH8XGlBxM/s640/web-6824-3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Yeah well - a day off is a day off</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTdcQj3f4NVCmR-CW-l4l1twF4qOWORbIq7ok9JFHODbLT6nAXdEZkxYXIShzZ-aEHca_dUUpIQWJNNaZINGfmXRGND1hkh6AF69iqOKok4MJdR5MeUAl-Azn-MiQbXN220-B_dhEGync/s1600/web-6808.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTdcQj3f4NVCmR-CW-l4l1twF4qOWORbIq7ok9JFHODbLT6nAXdEZkxYXIShzZ-aEHca_dUUpIQWJNNaZINGfmXRGND1hkh6AF69iqOKok4MJdR5MeUAl-Azn-MiQbXN220-B_dhEGync/s640/web-6808.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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and in the end,</div>
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it turned out to be a wonderful beach day.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj53HGu5L4643cz0cKYAzO_od4KxoqdMBaqTIC-2z1GsuHmztYyaELMmPpUkYyjrxmBhY-blHVaYhvMMKCaPoffd8jUSEIl71TKL6xfsKK__leen0k6kK9O9zvuGazHVpKNbmwrTaK5qXU/s1600/web-6834-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj53HGu5L4643cz0cKYAzO_od4KxoqdMBaqTIC-2z1GsuHmztYyaELMmPpUkYyjrxmBhY-blHVaYhvMMKCaPoffd8jUSEIl71TKL6xfsKK__leen0k6kK9O9zvuGazHVpKNbmwrTaK5qXU/s640/web-6834-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I am thankful for this day with no plans<br />
and the beauty that surrounds me.<br />
I'm pretty sure I heard my camera whisper thank you, also.<br />
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Note to self - when in doubt, ignore weather app<br />
and <i>always</i> pack a rain jacket...<br />
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I am joining Michelle for <a href="http://itsasmalltownlife.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Thankful Thursday</a><br />
and Tanya for <a href="http://monroega.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Willy Nilly Friday Five</a><br />
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<i>Thanks for dropping in!</i></div>
</div>
Karen Lakishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14493883087361055962noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2431138810354483465.post-44137784118530181122017-03-05T19:26:00.000-05:002017-03-05T19:26:37.506-05:00scene & story - february <div style="text-align: center;">
February was...</div>
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Well, it was February</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifzZjXCXPRu1aBFuC2WRYN5WQ6TBmJT9vCgQEx876c_73qrk5JCc_Auy8l5plR_JXBD2IABh-yXSyhRxZe7hoTYZO3J1lj-67zWwleWItpht-fmV8mcCgDiTNknHw-zJMFCLdG1_kiLCY/s1600/web-6609-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifzZjXCXPRu1aBFuC2WRYN5WQ6TBmJT9vCgQEx876c_73qrk5JCc_Auy8l5plR_JXBD2IABh-yXSyhRxZe7hoTYZO3J1lj-67zWwleWItpht-fmV8mcCgDiTNknHw-zJMFCLdG1_kiLCY/s640/web-6609-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The month began as February should in New England</div>
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- cold and snowy</div>
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I took this photo at Rockport Harbor, early in the month</div>
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- a cold, blustery day - the kind of cold that stings - almost knocking the wind out of me.</div>
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The ocean was a bright deep blue, and the sky - painted with shades of pastel.<br />
Gazing through my lens, I watched the couple on the breakwater,<br />
envying their adventurous spirit.<br />
It's too cold for me though - I'll scramble over those rocks another day.<br />
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Rockport is popular with tourists,<br />
its beautiful harbor, quaint shops, and art galleries draw large crowds in the summer.<br />
The colorful buoys tell another story<br />
- this is a working town with a working harbor.</div>
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It is the vast openness that is compelling me to take this photo, though.<br />
The ocean never fails to draw me in,<br />
reminding me - always - of my first sight of the Atlantic.</div>
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Nearly 16 years old, standing on the sand,<br />
utterly in awe - feeling so very, very small - insignificant.<br />
I have never lost that sense of wonder<br />
- and with this, I raise my camera,<br />
attempting to capture this small moment in time.<br />
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I am joining <a href="http://paisleyrainboots.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sarah</a> and <a href="https://seabluelens.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Leon</a> for Scene and Story</div>
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<i>Thanks for dropping in!</i></div>
</div>
Karen Lakishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14493883087361055962noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2431138810354483465.post-86874547836211081262017-02-27T06:30:00.000-05:002017-02-27T06:30:06.316-05:00photo challenge #14 sun flare<div style="text-align: center;">
High atop a mountain</div>
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- amidst multi-million dollar vacation homes</div>
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- and the most spectacular view,</div>
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sits this ramshackle abode</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwWPTJUO5LwGVf4c3Ta0OQ_aR5vuFo9onB7WE0qBJgVNTGv_WfWWxqrhQWBbCtICEeh4WTKDV94jHMdN1OR7qOJGhcYIudJlEyvAQZrt7ODW_GKihxjh_gVG-LaojSaeGPvpP86CTn4Jo/s1600/web-6746-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwWPTJUO5LwGVf4c3Ta0OQ_aR5vuFo9onB7WE0qBJgVNTGv_WfWWxqrhQWBbCtICEeh4WTKDV94jHMdN1OR7qOJGhcYIudJlEyvAQZrt7ODW_GKihxjh_gVG-LaojSaeGPvpP86CTn4Jo/s640/web-6746-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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no doubt, developers would love to raze this little gem</div>
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but here it remains - steadfast - a little piece of the real Vermont<br />
- with its own stories to tell</div>
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Next up - Faceless Self-Portrait<br />
Ummmm - yeah - I'm really not sure when I'll get around to that one...</div>
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Have a great day!</div>
Karen Lakishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14493883087361055962noreply@blogger.com15