Breezy Cranford Photography

16 years and counting.....

2012-01-23T00:01:00.000+01:00

Hard to belive that Gary and I have been married for 16 years. We celebrated our Anniversary with a trip to Roccaraso in the Abruzzi region of Italy. We rented a little place just on the east side of the mountain in a little village ( I will update with the name and more photos). We went to ski, and had a fabulous time. It is a bit different than the skiing we have done in the Poconos but fun none the less. Here are some photos I took with the Canon underwater camera that I have. And it is a good thing that it is waterproof as it was burried in the snow a couple of times lol. You know a photographer can not leave home without some sort of camera haha. Hope you enjoy the photos. I will post more hopefully tomorrow.

The kids all bundled up. We were told we would freeze, but by the time we got to the top we were sweating lol. Maybe because we were so close to the sun?

Gary and I with about 5 layers of clothing haha.

In case you can't see the writing in 2nd photo, I circled the building and wrote that those are buildings. They look like little hills until you realize that the little black speck is a builing! These are the same photos.

Just another view from the top of the mountain.

I swear we paid for the view. And these photos don't do it justice.

Let the skiing begin....

Gary and Sommer ready to hit the trail. And those are mountains in the bottom of the blue too.

New Props!

2012-01-16T20:00:00.001+01:00

Check out my new rugs/blankets that I have for sessions. These will be awesome for Seniors, Newborns and yes those Boudoir sessions!

Got all 3 from vendors at a market here in Napoli. I will definitely be purchasing more! They are all so soft, I can't wait to use them. Who is up for a session?

2012-01-13T17:59:00.001+01:00

Here is a video I put together quickly with just a few of my travel images. There will be more of these to come. If you see an image that you like and would like to order please contact me. I am working on getting some posted to either my current site or a new one. Hope you enjoy!

And remember if you like my work like me on facebook. And don't forget to share with your friends!
I have a contest running for the most referrals sent to my fb page.

Boudoir and Glamour

2012-01-12T15:34:00.001+01:00

OK I have decided to make add a video with some of my clients boudoir and glamour images. I do not like posting individual photos to Facebook so videos of images it is.

I have been privileged enough to photograph some beautiful women over the years. These are just a few of the many. Many requested that I not use their images for advertising and such, and being a professional I will honor their requests.

If you are in the Naples Italy area and interested in tasteful, sexy images please contact me. I will be here until 2014!

I offer boudoir parties. You can earn your session for free! Just get your friends together have some food and wine and we can have a boudoir party! I also have a post a couple of years back that has great ideas of what to wear and what props to bring.

I hope you enjoy! I think my work speaks for its self.

If you like my work please like my facebook page here

Breezy Cranford Photography Facebook

or my website here

http://www.breezycranfordphotography.com

Send your friends my way! Prizes to be had :D

2012-01-11T22:49:00.000+01:00

Today I reached 600 likes on my photography facebook page: Breezy Cranford Photography Facebook

Thanks to Chad Thompson, a hometown friend. He won a print from me from our trip to Paris. I just haven't decided which photo yet. Thanks again Chad!

Now I am offering another contest for my page. This time I have to get to 750 likes. This contest will be for the most referrals to my page. So if you like my photography and would like to win some of it, then please pass the link along to your friends. You can keep up with my blog from Facebook as it will let you know when I update the blog. So no need to subscribe or stalk my page lol.

If you refer a friend please have them post your name in a thread on my page so that I know who sent them.

I am sure it will take a little while to reach the 750 since we just broke the 600 mark earlier today. So if you are in Naples the prize could be anything. And for those of you in the states it could be just about anything too as I plan to be home mid Jan. 2013 for a couple of weeks. I will be in VA, NC and GA if all goes according to plan.

Start sharing my link now and get your name on my list.
They can go directly to my facebook page here

facebook

they can go to my website and get to the facebook link or back to here.

website

Thanks for all of the support!

I will announce the price the closer we get to the 750 and can also post the referals if you guys would like.

He sure is a handsome young man....

2012-01-10T00:03:00.000+01:00

If I do say so myself. I can't believe he is 14. Time sure does fly by. Austin's birthday was Saturday. We spent a quiet day at home per his request. He requested dinner and a cake lol.

Yes those are snow capped mountains behind him, along with an orchard and vineyard. Love the view from our balconies.

Austin is a chocoholic to say the least. We were at the NEX early last week and I told him to go to the Ice cream store and tell me what he wanted on his cake. We always do ice cream cakes for them. He came back and said they didn't have anything but plain chocolate ice cream and chocolate cake.
So he asked me to make him a cake. HAHA. I am crafy with a camera but when it comes to baking and decorating yeah um not so much.
Any way here is his chocolate cake um I mean brownie cake lol. Thought I had a cake mix but didn't so we improvised and make the "cake like" brownies instead of the usual chewy ones. He requested the chocolate ice crean, crushed oreos, semi sweet chocolate chips, M&Ms and chocolate icing.

It was so sweet even he couldn't finish his slice lol.

Here are a couple quick snaps of his cake.

And yes I know that is an ugly cake. I think it is the ugliest cake I have ever seen. But he was totally happy with it and that is all that matters :D

Man that sure is a lot of fire!

Yeah he blew them all out.

Thank goodness we didn't set off the smoke detectors.

Le Monte Saint Michel and more.....

2012-01-09T00:13:00.002+01:00

Here are a few more images from our trip to France.
Most are from Le Mont Saint Michel. Absolutely beautiful!

This is part of one of the doors. They are huge.

The view from the Cathedral area. When the tide comes in they water surrounds it. You are even told what time you have to move your car or it will be underwater.

This was by the gardens

Ivy growing on the wall. We saw this in several places in France. I loved seeing it growing on the houses.

View from the parking lot.

View from the road. I think this is my absolute favorite.

Sheep in the field with Le Mont Saint Michel in the background. This was suggested to me by my friend Amanda. Thanks again Amanda.

One of the graves at La Cambe German Cememtery/

View of the cemetery in the fall. the colors here were stunning. And the gray sky added to it.

Craters from the bombs at La Pointe Du Hoc.

Here are a couple of links

La cambe German Cemetery

Le Monte Saint Michel

Just a few images from our trip to France.

2012-01-06T00:10:00.001+01:00

Well I decided while I had a little time today that I would process a few images from our trip to France. I think they turned out great. They are just random photos from the coast line around Cherbourg France. There will be more to come.

This one is the river front in Cherbourg.

These 2 are both from the plane as we were leaving Naples, destination Paris.

Just a cool view of the water.

And those who know me know that I like to photography lighthouses :D

Why are Professional Photographers so expensive?

2012-01-04T22:48:00.000+01:00

I borrowed this article from http://www.caughtonfilmphoto.com/costofphotography.html
It is a great article about WHY professional photographers charge what they do for the photos. I believe this sums it up well. And I felt the need to publish this link here after the discussion that was just had on Facebook.

Why are Professional Photographers so expensive? This article has been very well received by the photography community, and is published in the December 2009 edition of Professional Photographer Magazine.

In this digital age where everyone has cameras, scanners, and home "photo printers," we hear this all the time: How do professional (or personal) photographers charge $X for an 8x10 when they cost just $1.50 at the drugstore? Simply put, the customer is not just paying for the actual photograph; they're paying for time and expertise.

The average one-hour portrait session

First, let's look at the actual work involved:

Travel to the session
Setup, preparation, talking to the client, etc.
Shoot the photos
Travel from the session
Load images onto a computer
Back up the files on an external drive
2 - 4 hours of Adobe® Photoshop® time, including cropping, contrast, color, sharpening, and backing up edited photographs. Proof photos are also ordered.
2 - 3 hours to talk to the client, answer questions, receive order and payment, order their prints, receive and verify prints, package prints, schedule shipment, and ship.
Possibly meet clients at the studio to review photos and place order. Meeting and travel time average 2 hours.

You can see how a one-hour session easily turns into an eight-hour day or more from start to finish. So when you see a personal photographer charging a $200 session fee for a one-hour photo shoot, the client is NOT paying them $200 per hour.

The eight-hour wedding

A wedding photographer typically meets with the bride and groom several times before and after the wedding. And it’s not uncommon to end up with 1,000 - 2,000 photos, much more than a portrait session. Many photographers spend 40-60 hours working on one eight-hour wedding if you look at the time that is truly involved. Again, when a wedding photographer charges $4,000 for eight hours of coverage, clients are NOT paying them $500 an hour!

(Don’t forget that the photographer runs the wedding day to some extent. A comfortable, confident wedding photographer can make a wedding day go more smoothly.)

The expertise and cost of doing business

Shooting professional photography is a skill acquired through years of experience. Even though a DSLR now costs under $1,000, taking professional portraits involves much more than a nice camera.

Most personal photographers take years to go from buying their first camera to making money with photography. In addition to learning how to use the camera, there is a mountain of other equipment and software programs used to edit and print photographs, run a website, etc. And don’t forget backdrops, props, rent, utilities, insurance, etc!

In addition to the financial investment, photographers actually have to have people skills to make subjects comfortable in front of the camera. Posing people to look their best is a skill by itself. You could argue that posing is a more important skill than actually knowing how to use the camera. A poorly exposed photo can be saved, but a badly posed photo cannot.

The chain store photo studio

Chain stores do have their place. For a very cheap price you can run in, shoot some quick photos, and be done with it. But you get what you pay for.

Consider the time and effort that a personal photographer puts into photographs, compared to a chain store. Store sessions last just a few minutes, while a personal photographer takes the time to get to know the people, makes them comfortable, makes them laugh. If a baby is crying at a chain store, they often don’t have the time (or the patience) to wait because everyone is in a hurry.

The truth is that many chain store studios lose money. In fact, Wal-Mart closed 500 of their portrait studios in 2007 because of the financial drain. What the chain stores bank on is a client coming in for quick, cheap photos…and while there, spending $200 on other items. They are there to get you in the door.

The real deal

Professional, personal photographers are just that—professionals. No different than a mechanic, dentist, doctor, or electrician. But a personal photographer often becomes a friend, someone who documents a family for generations with professional, personal photographs of cherished memories.

Maybe we need to help clients look at it this way: A pair of scissors costs $1.50 at the drugstore. Still, most people will gladly pay a lot more to hire a professional hair dresser to cut their hair.

The added attention and quality that a personal photographer gives is worth every penny.

Conclusion

We hope that those who have taken the time to read this page will have a better understanding of why professional photographs, created by a Personal Photographer are so expensive.

Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Shawn, Pamela and Gavin Richter - cofphoto@aol.com

Our website - Caught on Film Photography

Our photography fourm - Learning Digital Photography Together

Portraits are more than paper.....

2012-01-03T23:07:00.000+01:00

I want to share this post with you. I first read it in an email this morning from Adorama I believe. This hopefully makes people think about their "memories". Memories are precious to us all. And having them on Paper helps pass those on to the next generation.
This is borrowed (Copied and pasted exactly) from
http://fototails.wordpress.com/2012/01/02/a-letter-on-my-doorstep-portraits-are-more-than-paper/
A letter on my door step. portraits are more than paper.

Posted by jeaninethurston on January 2, 2012

There will be no portrait photos in this post. This letter wasn’t mailed – it was at my doorstep when I got home a couple months ago. I read it, I cried, and read it again – probably a hundred times by now. It wasn’t easy to read – and honestly, as much as it validates what I do for a living – I wasn’t sure I was going to share it either – Until today, when a past client said that my print prices were too expensive. If you choose to read through the letter, you will know why I’ve finally chosen to share it.
July 2nd, 2011
Jeanine -
Today I am writing for a couple of reasons. I have some quiet time at the moment and need to get a couple of things off my mind. I will leave this for my husband to deliver to you when he is ready.
You photographed my wedding, you photographed my first pregnancy and my first baby. I contacted you awhile back to photograph my 2nd child and family. After getting prices and realizing I would want all of the pictures as we love your work – I decided against spending $500+ – which is what I normally spend for portraits and prints with you.. Please know it is not because I don’t value your amazing eye, or how much we love the experience.
That week that I decided to NOT do a session with you, this is how I spent some money.
On Sunday I called and cancelled our session. Monday I went out and got my hair cut ($39+tip), and colored ($65), Thursday I had my nails done ($24), my family went out to dinner at a somewhat expensive restaurant for no particular reason costing us $79 + tip. This was just 4 days since canceling our session, already totaling over $200 for un necessary things. My nails only lasted about 2 weeks, my hair is gone, and seven weeks passed when I got the phone call from our doctor. It was not something I expected and the cancer has spread very quickly. I will be leaving my husband, my 6 year old girl and my now 2 year old – not by choice. It is very hard for me to talk about it which is why I need to write you.
I watch your Facebook page and your posts about the value of a photo and if I could give back all of those things that I purchased this few weeks after I cancelled my session with you, knowing what I know now, and have that session, well… I would do it in a heartbeat.
Now my time is done and there are no more chances for me. The next time someone cancels a session – my wish is that you forward this letter to them. Time is fragile, it is gone before you know you had it. If you charged $200 for one print it wouldn’t be enough for what it is actually worth. I cringe to think that my priorities were a manicure over a memory to pass onto my babies and husband.
My love and thanks for what you have given us from past photos. I am so sorry that I did not see it as more than paper until now.
Karen L.

So please the next time you cancel a session or inquire and never book a session because of price, those are memories you will never be able to share of your family. You may not have tomorrow. None of us know if we will be here tomorrow.
Remember you get what you pay for!

What to wear for the Mini Valentines Day Sessions

2012-01-02T16:36:00.000+01:00

I have had a couple of people ask me what to wear for the photography sessions I am offering on Jan. 14th 2012 at the Market Playce. They will be held at the Community Center onboard NSA Naples Support Site.

I was referred to a photographer that offers up these great templates by my friend Shakyra Canchaney who is also a photographer down at NSA Sigonella, Sicily.
I know the photo says November but I think it would work great for the Valentine photos here in Naples now that it is starting to get colder. Hopefully this gives you a few ideas and you can put your on twist on these. I would be happy to offer my opinion as well.

Over View of what to wear for any session

All in all you should Coordinate outfits. That does not mean everyone in white shirts and khaki pants or black shirts with jeans for casual portraits. You want everyone to pop in the photo, not blend together like a blob with a few heads.

Colors and Patterns are a natural part of life. So use them to your advantage, but do not use every color of the rainbow. Again you want to make sure that you coordinate the colors together. Patterns are ok as long as they are not distracting and taking the attention away from YOU the SUBJECT. That would mean smaller ones and only use them sparingly. Just like with the colors, don't use competing patterns, it will only distract the viewer. Avoid large logos and graphics again too distracting. The best way to do this would be pick someones outfit first, usually the patterned person and then play off of it. Find everyone elses clothing by matching up the color schemes to the pattern. Just make sure that the color you choose for each person goes well with their complexion.

Layering is a great way to change up similar portraits. It provide a more visual interest, and it will allow a lot more variety in your shots and poses. Great ideas would be a scarf, hat, sweater, tie, belt etc.. The ideas are limitless.

At Breezy Cranford Photography I want your portraits to speak volumes about you and your family. Have a family meeting and discuss props that represent your family. It could be anything, I just want to capture YOUR family or childs personality in the portraits I take. Bring collective props for the family and also individuals for each family member. If you all enjoy your time at the beach or lake why not hold your session there? What about the snow and skiing? We can do that too.

MakeupLadies if you normally wear makeup then apply just a tad darker than you normally would. It will enhance your photo. Do not go overboard, don't apply it heavy like the models on the run way do. Just bump it up a notch. If you don't normally wear makeup then at least apply a little mascara, blush and lip gloss. A little goes a long way. And another tip for you ladies who don't wear much makeup, the ladies at the NEX makeup counters will gladly give you a "mini" makeover for Free! And then you don't have to worry about the makeup.

Changes of Clothing are allowed for all sessions minus the "mini" specials that I offer from time to time. And that is just because of time constraints. But normal family, newborn, boudoir, bridal sessions etc... all allow for clothing changes.

Plan accordingly. Give ample time to have everything in line before the session. You don't want to be rushing around last minute trying to get haircuts or coordinating outfits etc...

Most importantly is BE YOURSELF! Don't wear something just because someone else said to. Don't put your kids in uncomfortable clothes. If they are uncomfortable the portraits will not be as memorable as you had hoped. You want the express your personality or your families personality, not someone you aren't.

Remember what your home Decor is like. If it is very casual and "liveable" then you normally want that to be the style of your photos. If your house is very elegant and everything is in its rightful place then you may very well prefer a more elegant and glamorous session. On this note also think about where you have bare walls or where you want to hang your portraits. We can incorporate that into your session. Especially knowing you want a landscape orientation style portrait over a portrait orientation to fill the spot above the mantel etc... is very helpful.

Also for those of you who are interested in the boudoir sessions I am holding in a private location on Jan. 15th 2012 you can search boudoir here on my blog and I have a HUGE list of ideas for clothing and props!

These outfit ideas come from http://corinanielsen.com . Thanks for sharing your talent with fellow photographers!

Buon Anno Neapolitan Style!

2012-01-01T12:52:00.000+01:00

As you can tell we had a pretty good view of the Naples Firework display to ring in the New Year. This was a first for us. We have never seen fireworks like this before. I swear I think they set off as many fireworks as the entire US would set off for New Years lol. We had a 360 degree view of them! They lasted until well after 130am. Snoopy just had to come to the roof top with us as she didn't want to be left out. So after putting her back in the house a couple of times we let her stay. She was fine with the initial erruption of the right at midnight. But once a couple of our neighbors set them off right in the street beside of our house, she was gone lol. Those went right over our heads. We had a great time roasting those weenies and marshmellows, and drinking hot chocolate.

Happ New Year to everyone. Hope you enjoyed the photographs.

Good bye 2011, Hello 2012!

2011-12-31T21:34:00.001+01:00

Wow! What a way to end the year. This was the few at sunset tonight. I think we have a pretty good view of the Bay of Naples. This is perfect for the fireworks that have already started.

Lots of things happened to us in 2011.
We celebrated our oldest's 13th Birthday in NC with Family.

The hubs and I celebrated our 16th Wedding Anniversary in Gatlinburg Tennesse with the kids. It was great family time and we were able to see lots of wildlife in Cades Cove.

Shipped the hubs off to Fort Leonard Wood Mo just a few short days later.

Celebrated Anniversary with family.
Dropped our Van off in Portsmouth VA to shipped to Naples, kids in tow.
The middle ones 12th birthday was celebrated with family at a Chinese buffet! If you know him you understand this :D

A few days later we drove to VA to pick the hubs up from his school. And spend our final stateside days stuck in the Navy Lodge Fort Story/ Little Creek base.
Enjoyed one last meal at Red Lobster just to leave my purse there (see why I never carry them lol) and have all of the cash stolen. Reported the credit cards just in case they wrote all of that info down. Put fraud alerts on the SS #s.

We flew to Naples on the AMC flight in early April. Said good bye to my mom and mother in law, along with the hubs aunt at the airport.
Arrived in Naples exhausted cause I was too excited to sleep. And got checked into TLA.

Spent a week in Area Orientation, boring but things you need to know.

Did a lot of house hunting.

Bought a Naples Beater!
We found a place with a few of the Med. We have a pool for just our duplex. The house is smaller than most we looked at, which at this point is a good thing, they don't hold heat nor AC well. We picked this place for the view :D. That photo was taken from our roof top terrace.

Finally moved out of TLA after 58 days and into our house on June 3.
Movers came the same day. We had no power. Gotta love Italy lol.

Did lots of unpacking, but thankful we left a lot of stuff in the states.
The kids and I spent a day at Magic World with NOSC. Had fun but learned that the Italian safety standards are no match for the USA ones. I am an adrenaline junkie all the way but there were rides there that really bothered me. haha.
The catalytic converters on our van caught on fire less than two weeks after we moved in. Italians don't work on American cars much and most wanted nothing to do with it.

Made a few friends and a few enemies along the way.
Spent my Birthday in Northern Tuscany! Stayed in a little mountain town and visited the leaning tower of Pisa and lots of little towns.

Bought some real Italian Marble.
Ordered the youngest a Gelato cake for her 11th birthday in August. Oh and we had spaghetti tacos per her request. That was a new one for me too.

The hubs had shoulder surgery in September.

I drove us all the way to Sigonella Sicily in the Naples beater :D

Met a long time internet friend Shakyra! Ate some great food with her.
We got to see Mt Etna errupt. That was awesome!

Finally got our van back!

We went to Normandy France in October. The place is absoltely beautiful. I want to go back. It is a very humbling place too. The kids learned a lot and did the hubs and I.

Ate sea snails!

We went to France for Halloween! Been there done that, it was nice but have no reason to go back. lol

Got felt up by a very rude screener at Orly airport. Had we been in the states we would probably have both been in jail as I would have knocked her ass out. I didn't want to sit in a French Jail though. I did make a scene though :)

Celebrated Thanksgiving with the hubs working so we had a turkey dinner instead of lunch.

Kept trying to decide if we were decorating for Christmas or not.

Wound up borrowing a 4ft tree and that was it.

We spent the week of Christmas in Rome.

Christmas day was spent with a friend Annette and her 2 daughters.

And now here we are celebrating a new year.

Oh yeah tried lots of wines and foods I thought I would never in my life eat lol.
No worries though the wine won't get hot tonight. Celebrating the new year over the fire pit with rosted weenies and roasted marshmellows (maybe a few smores), lots of junk food, wine, hot chocolate and sparkling grape juice for the kids.

I don't want to say I have New Years Resolutions but I do have goals. I plan to get some relief for my fibromyalgia (includes my back pain).

Post more often here.
Make lots more photographs of Italy.
Spend as much time with my husband and kids as I can.

Hopefully have a girls week/weekend some where.

See Ireland, more of London, lots of Germany, Switzerland and of course more of Italy for sure.
Hoping to see more than that but those are definites.

Hold photography classes and more portrait sessions. But most of all I will take more landscape and nature photographs.
And of course loose this weight. I will be working out weekly. Not sure how often, it will depend on how bad the fibro is that day.
All in All I expect 2012 to be great!

Buon Anno!!! Happy New Year!

When in France, do as the French!

2011-11-14T17:46:00.001+01:00

We did the best we could with our non English speaking waitress and our non French speaking selves lol. We knew what this was before ordering, but Sommer said bring it on.

Then when it came out this is the look she gave lol.

Still debating on it. Do you know what it is?

OK I might as well give it a shot she said.

OK that wasnt too bad. I will try the whole thing now.

Back Off! She said to Austin lol

And incase you hadn't guessed, it is sea snails lol. All of those were an appetizer.

She finally let Austin try one.

He wasn't too sure about it, but in the end he said he liked it.

This is what the little boogers look like out of their shells.

Hey mom try one she said! I was very skeptical, can't you tell haha.

OK better just get it over with or I won't do it.

It wasn't too bad, not as bad as I had expected that is for sure.

And Gary tried it, he put a little of the mayo mixture on his though.

He liked it too.

Sommer asked to take the rest of them home with her and the waitress thought she was crazy or something. Her and Gary both agreed they were better hot than they were cold. And yes Codey refused to try them at all.

Any way this was a cute little place on the river in a little village between Juno and Sword beach I think. I will know specifics when I look for the papers that we brought back. There was a fresh fish market right beside of it. Pictures to come soon from that too.
Sorry mom hope it didn't make you sick. Sommer just said we had to share them with ya'll. HAHA.

On this Veterans Day

2011-11-11T23:11:00.001+01:00

Our family would like to thank all verterans today.
Here are 3 photos from our trip to Normandy, France earlier this month.
My husband and 3 kids were honored to be able to raise the 2 American flags that fly over the NORMANDY AMERICAN CEMETERY.We were there early to capture the fog which you can see in the distance and we were asked if we would like to help.
The last image was taken at the La Cambe German Cemetery also in Normandy. I love the colors in this one.
To all Veterans of the past and present we thank you!
MA1 Cranford we are proud of you and thank you for everything you have done for our family and our Nation!

Paris!

2011-11-06T16:32:00.000+01:00

These are as we watched night time fall.

This one is my favorite I think.

We went to France on the 25th of October. Spent 5 days in Normandy and then headed back to Paris for an additional 4 days. Here are a few night images of the Tour Eiffel (Eiffel Tower) that I took on our last evening there. I love the beautiful sky in these. Most had nothing done to them at all but cropping. I did boost the colors just a tad on the first but the majority are straight out of camera.
Hope you enjoy and I will post more about the trip soon.

2011-10-22T16:24:00.001+02:00

Decided to play with this photo today while on break from my creativelive class and while waiting to hear back from a client about some birth announcements.
I took this image while in Sicily. We had just entered NAS Sigonella when it started storming. The light was bright and no rain yet so I jumped out of the car and started tracking the lightening. I was fortunate enough to catch one strike. Unfortunately within about 2 minutes of getting out of the car the bottom fell out. So it is nothing spectacular but I am happy that I finally captured some lightening. I have tried off and on for years. I hope with the rainy season upon us here in Naples that I can practice this even more.
So tell me what you think!

Mt. Etna

2011-10-11T21:27:00.000+02:00

Man I can't believe it has been just over a month since I have posted anything. There has been lots going on though. G had surgery, the market playces oh and yeah our week long trip to Sicily. Here are just a couple of teasers from Mt Etna. We got to see her burp on the 28th of Sept. It was really a great thing to witness. I only wish I had gotten more shots. Unfortunately she started while we were having dinner in Catania apparently. As we were heading to our room, my middle ones said the mountain was on fire. And sure enough she was burping. By the time we got back to our room, which was a "perfect" few she was almost finished. But that was the one thing I had hoped out of the trip, and I got it so all in all even with the bad weather it was a pretty good trip. I will post more soon.

This was the view of her the morning she errupted. It had been raining and cloudy up until then so we weren't able to see her peaks until that morning.

And this was the only shot I got of the actual erruption. The rest are of the lava flow. These were taken from the balcony of the apartment we rented.

I had 2 photos picked in a contest for Italy

2011-09-02T22:01:00.000+02:00

Just wanted to share for any of you who missed my share on Facebook yesterday. I entered a contest (was able to keep all rights to my photos etc...) never enter when you give up the copyright to your photos.

I had 2 of my 3 images submitted picked as a finalist in thecontest on Walks of Italy Blog. Unfortunately I didn't win the grand prize but that is ok. I won a discount code to use towards any of their tours. How cool is that? I am sure we will be able to take a couple of tours in our time left here and a discount makes it even better.
You can view all of the winning images along with my 2 here:

http://www.walksofitaly.com/blog/all-around-italy/announcing-the-winners-of-our-travel-photo-contest

This was the 3rd images I submitted. This is the view from Sorrento, Italy. Hope you enjoy.

Oh yes, yesterday at NSA Naples we had a Market Playce. Lots of vendors came out, I believe there were 16 of us and only in the second month! I think it is great that we can all represent our hobbies and businesses. I had great feed back about my photography, style and quality. Looking forward to working with some great people here in Naples!
So all in all yesterday was a great day!

Market finds

2011-08-24T01:05:00.000+02:00

Some ladies had talked on Facebook about going to a Market that isn't too far from where we live. Gary and I got up at a decent time considering he is still on nights. We headed over and got there about 930am. We parked on the side of the road as we weren't sure exactly where it was but we knew we were there because of all the cars haha. Will have to post pics of the parking next time. Any way we made our way through, strolling along, at a fast leisurely pace cause it was HOT! If something jumped out at me I looked but for the most part we just wanted to see if it was worth going back to another time. Gary looked for a small shovel to use in the BBQ to get the ashes out. No luck there. I didn't know what I was looking for but I told him when I saw it I would know haha. Don't think he liked that too well. Any way we came upon this one vendor that had canning jars, so I asked how much in Italian. He wanted over 5E's a jar and that didn't include the lids. said no thanks. At the corner of his table on the ground in a bin I saw some glass bottles, again asked how much. He wanted 3E each or 3 for 5E. And so here are my 3 limoncello jars. On our last swipe through the fruit and veggie vendors were ready to pack up. I saw a crate of zucchinis left and asked how much again. I got an entire crate, 2 plastic grocery bags crammed full for 4E. and he tossed in 2 bananas also. So all in all I think it was a good day. We decided if we are just going to "look" we go early. If we are there to "bargain" shop we will go late morning, when they are ready to go home. Can't wait to venture out to another market soon.

1 Tequila, 2 Tequila, 3 Tequila, Floor....

2011-08-24T00:41:00.001+02:00

The Navy paid for Darius Rucker to come out some of the Naval bases and put on a free concert. The kids and I got to go. Unfortunately, just like every other event, Gary had to work.

Darius put on a great show and we are thankful he took time out to come and play for us.
Thought I would share a few pics from the show.
Enjoy!

Family pics

2011-08-16T00:03:00.001+02:00

So family members have been asking to see some photos of us. I decided to put a few up.

Yes they have grown a lot just since April. The boys are now taller than me, not that that is saying much lol. Sommer is right on their heels. She may catch them before it is over.

So here they are, a few from the trip to Pisa.

The kids in front of the leaning tower.

The kids and Gary on the top of the tower.

Gary and I on the top of the tower.

The kids inside the Grotta Del Vento.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa

2011-08-12T23:06:00.000+02:00

Must say, great minds think alike. Here is my version of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Or as it is known as in Pisa, the bell tower, or campanile. If you haven't seen my son Codey's version, look in the July section on this blog. I posted his version there. Two different photos but we both invisioned it pretty much the same. Especially considering I didn't know he even took that one until we got home and I loaded them on the computer. He definitely has an eye for photography. That is MY Boy lol.

Snoopy goes to Pisa!

2011-08-10T22:12:00.000+02:00

Gonna post a photo tonight of our 2 girls. The boys were in the Baptistry looking around while us girls waited outside. Since obviously Snoopy couldn't go in. The 2 were playing around and I decided to take a few shots. And as I snapped this one the wind picked up. Maybe we should call her Super Snoopy? lol.
Hope you enjoy.

One of the views

2011-08-10T00:24:00.001+02:00

From our roof top terrace.

The mountains in the distance at sunset.

Yes that is smoggy fog at the base of the mountains. This was actually a good day!

I have more to come soon. Hoping to get them posted more frequently.

2011-07-29T14:31:00.000+02:00

Codey took this one of the leaning tower of Pisa from the Baptistry.

Luni is assumed to be a 1st century Roman amphitheater ruin.

Again sorry for the different posts, it is taking forever literally to get them loaded.

2011-07-28T08:46:00.000+02:00

Sorry it is taking forever to get these photos up on here.

Marble mountain top.

Another view from the town we stayed in

Our trip to Northern Tuscany

2011-07-26T22:02:00.001+02:00

Well I haven't had much to say lately as there has been way too much going on for me to put it out here haha. But I decided a few weeks ago that I wanted us to get away for my birthday. It was perfect timing. The husband had a weekend off and would be going from days to nights so it gave us an extra 12 hours. I did tons of research and found lots of places but only a few I was willing to drop the money on. I can justify say Venice in Peak tourist season when I saw the difference in prices between Peek and off season. And Venice was my first choice. I lucked up and found a house that had a special for 30% off on bookings in July as they had had a cancellation. So I shot off an email inquiring about the house. It was available for the dates we were looking for and would be a total of less than $210 for 4 nights and that is Dollars not Euros! I snatched it up and told the hubs we were going. Did a little research of that part of Tuscany. And off we went.... with a few snags of course, it isn't the Navy life without something going wrong ha!

Thursday night the hubs gets home from work and off we go on what is supposed to be just under a 6 hour drive. GPS's can be your friend and they can be your enemy, Lola was our enemy that day. She took us into some town just north east of the Support Site. After adding 8 hours to our trip time we found our way out, no thanks to her. Finally on the A1 we were up to 6.5 hours of drive time. So instead of arriving just after 1am we are up to 130. We had about 500KM to go on the A1 so we were set. We stopped for gas twice since the Gas coupons are only good for AGIP and ESSO, not all take them, so we figured we were best getting it on the main highway. We learned that we have no clue what the speed limit is on the A1. Here around Naples it is posted to be 100. But the further North you go the less signs you see. At a couple of places we found out that there are speed cameras and they are set for different speeds. One is set for 130 and the other is at 110. And these 2 cameras are about 10sec apart if you are running 110. Still scratching my head on that one. The only reason I know it is at least 110 further north is because we hit construction and it said to slow down to 110 lol. So if you have driven the A1 often and know the real speed can you fill me in? I would really like to know.

Any way back to the trip, we paid our tolls and headed for the mountains. Following Lola again, wrong move, we should have followed the google map directions we printed off. She took us up a mountain and into a little town that only had alley ways like those of downtown Naples. We follow her directions and come to the end of the Alley way to find out we can't go any further. Thankfully we are in our "Naples Beater" and not the van, as it would have never made it down the alley let alone made the 20 point turn at 2am. We have no clue why we wound up in that little town as it wasn't the town we were staying in. So back down the mountain we go and I try to figure out where we are and where we need to go by the google directions, pretty hard when they take you in different directions lol. Along the way we almost hit a boar and porcupine (never seen one of those in the wild before). But we figured it out and wound up in the car park for Casabasciana at exactly 3am. We all jumped as the car stops and the husbands alarm on his cell phone goes off to tell him it is time to get up on a "working" day. Now we had to find the house. That was fun in the dark lol. We got everything inside and assigned beds to the kids and dog. We slepted until 1030. Got up and ready and headed out around noon. The google directions didn't print the names of the places I had researched so I just picked on and said I have no clue what we are going to see but we are going to see something. Off we went down the mountain, around more mountains and we wound up at Grotto Del Vento, The Wind Cave. It is a a beautiful system of caves and grottoes that wind underneath the Pania Secca. We took the one hour tour as we weren't sure if we would really enjoy it and with the language barrier, didn't really know the difference between the 1 hour, 2 hour and 3 hour tours other than you went deeper into the cave the longer the tour. It was pretty cool and the kids had fun. I do have pics but I haven't gotten to those yet. Sommer picked out a teal mineral rock and Codey picked out some sort of green rock as their souvenirs. Austin decided he would wait and see if he found something later. From there we headed back down to a little town that we had seen on the way up, got a few pictures of a little bridge and dam/waterfall. Heading back towards our house we stopped at another bridge. The name is not coming to me at the moment but I will post it when I get to those pictures. After walking around there for a bit, we try to find Devils Bridge, Lola can't find it. So we decide to head back and find some where to eat. We were in between opening times for most places, so we decided to try Villa Aurora, it was close to Casabasciana up in the mountains. We stood at the chalk board menu for a few minutes trying to figure out what it said with our Italian dictionary. That was interesting to say the least. We did figure out that there was trout of some sort, wild boar and some sort of kebab. We were seated outside on the patio, perfect weather. Luckily Aurora spoke a little bit of English and we speak a little bit of Italian, between the 2 we could get our points across. And the Menu was translated into vague English. Here we had our first real Italian meal since getting to Italy. We have had Italian food but never the full courses. We each ordered our pastas which were very good. I ordered the Large prawns, the hubs got the trout (head and all :D) Sommer ordered steak, Austin ordered a lemon pork lion and Codey ordered pork shops for our meats. We all had gelato for dessert, mine with fruits, hubs with a shot of Cafe, Codey and Sommer ordered something with chocolate and Austin got lemon gelato. Sorry no pictures as we were hungry and the first course was gone before I even thought about pics. That meal was 121Euros, or basically 200 dollars. It was good but for the price there could have been more food.

Back at our house we settled in early as we were still tired apparently from the long ride up. Saturday morning we got up at 6 and headed for Pisa. Didn't get there as early as I would have liked but not too bad. We were able to park just out side of the main entry. We got there about 830, and was able to purchase tickets for the tower for 1030. We also purchased tickets to go in the Catherdral, Baptistry, and the Monumental Cemetery. The tour alone was 15E each. For the 4 buildings we spent 115E or basically 185 dollars! That was almost as much as dinner! You only get 30 mins in the tower and that includes your climb up and down those 297 steps. The steps are worn and make you vear the way the tower is leaning. The climb if you are not in shape will kick your butt, it did mine :D. But it was totally worth it once you got to the top and saw the view. We took a few pictures up there and just looked around. We were able to spot the mountain that we came down to get to Pisa, which had a wonderful view over looking the city below. After the tour we visited the Cathedral and Baptistry, very pretty and touching. Sommer and I even got to hear the echo testing in the Baptistry while we were in there. 4 hours later and we head for the mountains. We found a few "brown" signs with things that looked interesting and took side trips on our way back, some of them we found, some were closed and some we haven't located yet lol. Sunday we had no clue where we were going we just got up and started to ride, found Devil's Bridge and took some photos of it. Then we headed towards the water. Once we got to Viareggio we decided the water was not a good idea as there was no parking any where in site. We found a few things that were one of the guide books from the house. But most of it we couldn't find in the GPS. Luckily they also had an Atlas. For the most part we just looked for the brown signs and tried to follow them. Still haven't found one Castle but we found another, toured it until we were kicked out because it was closed Ooops lol. Saw some gorgeous views of the ocean as we climbed the other side of the Apuan Alps. We saw a sign for a cave and decided we would check it out, that lead us to the Marble mountains and quarry. There we found another bridge that we had seen in the guide book. Also looked at the little museum there. We didn't do a tour this time as we had Snoopy with us and it was too warm to leave her in the car. We stopped at a little shop there and purchased a few things for us and a couple of gifts. There was some BEAUTIFUL items there for purchase. They helped us find a our way to Luni a Roman amphitheater form the 1st century I believe. It didn't look like the photo we had seen in the book but interesting none the less. The kids were free here, but it was only 2E PP any way. They are still excavating it so there are roofs over some of it. They have pulled out lots of things and are trying to put columns and such back together. After about an hour we headed for the house as there were major dark clouds heading towards us from the mountains. We got everything together for the trip back on Monday. And hit the road around 645am. Unfortunately the hubs listened to the GPS instead of me (typical lol) and it took us over an hour to get out of the winding mountain roads. By the time we got on the A56 we had added 20 minutes to the drive. Dang you Lola! We looked for gas stations and couldn't find any, we wound up getting off the freeway and headed for an Esso, they were closed. A little further down we found one that was open, but they didn't take the gas coupons. So I whip out 10E, that is about $15 for 1.75 gallons of gas! Back on the freeway we went keeping our eyes peeled for AGIPs, as we had passed several on the trip up. We found several on the wrong side of the road lol. We finally stopped at an Shell station, they didn't take the coupons either, 20E more later we are on the road again. We came to an AGIP some where way down the road. We filled up with 40liters the most we have ever gotten in the car and the light wasn't on. Makes me wonder just how much we can get in that little car lol. Any way we finally made it back to Naples at 2pm just in time for the hubs to go to work. It was a long trip but we enjoyed it just the same. And at this point it was a good thing the van is messed up as it would never have made the trip on some of those roads. So if we get it fixed we will have to save it for trips to Germany and beyond.....

This is the Baptistry in Pisa.

Cathedral with Tower in background.

The leaning tower of Pisa.

The Cathedral again but from the Baptistry.

The view of the mountains from the town we stayed in. I took this photo. It was beautiful seeing the clouds so low in the mountains. Reminded me of the Great Smoky Mountains.

View from the mountians while hunting the "cave" over Carrara. The husband took this one while we stopped in the middle of the highway. True Italian style!

The cobblestone stairs in the town we stayed in. They say the people live to be atleast 100 that live here. I am positive I wouldn't be as fat as I am if I lived there lol. I took this photo with the Canon P&S.

The photos not specified were taken by the kids. I think I have some photographers on my hands. Gotta go ahead and teach them right. I will post more later and some that I took. Internet isn't cooperating and doesn't want to load the images here.
Hope you enjoy!

Where we will live for the next 3 years

2011-05-22T15:31:00.000+02:00

After 58 days in TLA if all goes well this will be home. We have signed the precontract, and had 2 inspections. It passed the 2nd one. So we sign the final contract on the 26th. And then we move in June 3rd. These are just a few quick snaps of the house that I took while Gary was at work. As I went to see this house first without him. There will be much better pics to come once we are in it.

This is the front. It is a duplex and not a stand alone, but we are ok with that because of the perks. :D
It isn't the most beautiful house we saw nor is it the biggest by any means. Doesn't have the largest yard etc... But again we picked the house that we thought would work best for us.
One of the perks!!!

The pool! BTW it is clean now :D. If you look just over the fence you can see mountains. The views are just fabulous. We have the Med on oneside and mountians on the other 3. That is when the fog/haze isn't blocking it lol.

This is our wonderful "small" yard. We didnt want a large one as we didn't bring yard tools since we were told we would have to live on base (no yards) and with G's schedule I will more than likely get stuck mowing/weed eating any way.

Kitchen, again not the most beautiful one we saw, but it works and they added a dishwasher for us. We saw one that was a beautiful traditional italian kitchen but I can cook any where as long as I have space.

The foreground is the dining area and the the other is the living room. Under the arch is a bathroom and another room. Again not the prettiest staircase we saw, but who cares :D, because the rest of the house just seems to work best for us.

One of the 3 bathrooms. This is the only one with a window, the others have doors to the balconies.

And this is one of 5 bedrooms. All with walkout doors to the balconies.

The other perk is the roof top terrace, that I didn't get a picture of but will get once we move in. I will post pictures once we are out there and there is a clear day to get the Mediterranean Sea, the mountians and Mt. Vesuvius.
We can't wait to get our stuff and have a place to call "home" again. By the time we move in it will have been 7 months. That is a long time to not have a home to come back to.
Hope you like it. Tell me what you think.

Girls Life Magazine for only $12

2011-05-05T16:37:00.000+02:00

Check out this link if you have tween girls.
Mamapedia deals

It is a great deal 2 years for only $12 dollars and if you go here you can get a discount code of an additional 10% off.
http://www.thecouponchallenge.com/2011/05/mamapedia-0505-2-year-subscription-to-girl%e2%80%99s-life-magazine.html#comment-18639

Will be back soon to post more info about our new adventures here in Naples Italy. But wanted to get this out asap!

BELLA NAPOLI!!!

2011-04-18T16:18:00.000+02:00

We have arrived in "Beautiful Naples".
I will give a rundown or our time in Norfolk, waiting on the AMC flight and our 12 days here so far. Some of it more for me than you but atleast when I go to "scrapbook" the trip I can hopefully remember more haha.
The kids and I left North Carolina bright and early on March 24th in a Hertz rental van. We made it to Norfolk around 1230 but could not check into the Navy Lodge at that time, becase we had the dog. So I went over to Hertz on base to get some information on our other reservation (wasn't keeping a van on a one way reservation for almost 2 weeks as one day was almost the same price as a week for a local midsize car, and those who know me know I do not "throw" money away when I can help it.). Much to my surprise I found out that Hertz would no longer be servicing the bases in Hampton Roads and I was told I "had" to return it to a different location. I was irritated to say the least as I had spent over an hour at the Hertz rental in Asheboro NC over an error on their part the day before. I informed Becky that her logical solution was unacceptable, so she called her boss and left a message. I went off base to check with Enterprise, I about had heart failure. They wanted almost $700 for the same thing Hertz was charging $330ish for. BTW Enterprise is the new Base "rental car" dealers on base atleast until the contract is up. Went back to the base as Becky had called my cell while I was in Enterprise. They offered me the rental at the same price and a 15 dollar cab fare discount. I told her yet again that it was unacceptable. For one someone should have contacted me when Hertz lost the contract so that we could make arrangements and they should have had a plan in place if they weren't going to call the "customers". The reason I found it unacceptable was because we were told we had to return it by 6pm on Military Hwy in Norfolk and then some how get to NOB. Have you driven at rush hour in Hampton Roads lately? Uhm yeah not gonna make that cab ride for $15. So after speaking with the manager he upped it to $35 for the cab and a $50 discount when he heard the rest of the horrible story form the day before. Any way I left Hertz still irritated but some what satisfied. Got to the Navy Lodge and was able to get in, and got the van unloaded. Ran to the storage unit to get a few things that we were taking on the plane with us like Snoopy's Crate, sleeping bags etc.... It took me 2 hours to get from NAB LC to Tidewater Dr and back. I spent 12 mins total in the storage bldg. the rest was spent sitting in traffic as it was rush hour. Got back to the base, fueled the van and headed to Hertz to get the other rental. It was interesting to get the few things from storage in there but I did, trunk open, kids holding dog and crate broken down in front seat lol. Gary called from the airport saying he had landed while I was still trying to get the mess in the car. He arrived about 20 min early (that never happens when we travel as a family, but then he gets put in first class when he flies sometimes too). We picked him up and stopped by our favorite place to eat in Hampton Roads Dynasty on Northhampton Blvd. We were greated with surprised looks as they know us by name we are there so much haha, as we were supposed to already be in Italy at that point. Had a great dinner and crashed early.
Gary checked in at TPU the next morning while the kids worked on school work. The weather was cold and rainy most of the 12 days we were there. Gary went into work everyday M-F. We had planned to go to Busch Gardens but with the weather like it was it wasn't worth it. And we had planned a trip to DC to see the Cherry blossoms, that didn't happen either as it snowed in DC, no point after that. We repacked bags and containers. Took the boys to the Orthodontics for their final exams before being released to the military dentist. We stopped by the ship to pick up some personal effects and such, but as usual still nothing. Gary has been detatched for over 4 months and they still can't get his award to him that should have been ready the day he checked out (Dec. 20th.). Not shocking though as I had been there in Feb and got the same run around.
Oh and let me just say we have stayed in many Navy Lodges, but this was the worst stay ever. The manager even contacted us personally due to the problems we had. Not that it did us any good but hey it was worth a shot lol. We were in bed trying to wind down one night and at 1030pm there was a knock on the door. I opened it as it was maintainance, I asked if he could come back in the morning, he refused and said he had to come in. He finally left after about 45 mins. We were pissed as there was NO reason that he needed to be in our room that late. It was all because the guest next door decided to wait until 10pm to complain about his sink stopping up and demanded it be fixed (found this out after the mang. contacted us). But this was after the ice machine being broken, which was also broken a month before, when we were there for dropping the Van off for shipment. I was assured it would be fixed. Was still broken when we checked out over a week later. The luggage carts were broken, literally the wheels were flat on one and the other looked to have been filled with fix a flat and then the rubber burst which made it impossible to steer. I was assured they would be fixed also. Yeah they pulled them both, so there was no luggage carts at all. After all of that we were offer half off of one night. Next time we need to stay in HR's it was be the NOB or Dam Neck Navy Lodge locations not JEB Little Creeks.
We ate at Red Lobster on Thursday evening for a late lunch/early dinner. Had a couple of coupons in my purse so I took it in. HUGE mistake as I left it under my chair when we left. Since moving wasn't stressful enough. Called and it was still there, but when I picked it up I knew it had been gone through. All of the cash was gone, but CC's and all were still in there. I had to put alerts on the SS #s as ID cards were in it, close out CC's and such. Still waiting on those cards btw Discover.
My mom came up on Sunday and we met her at her Hotel as she didn't really know her way around. Finished packing and watched a few movies. On Tuesday we got up and took all of our stuff, carry on and shipped along with the dog to the airport so that we were checked in and could sit together etc... That was time consuming and stressful too. We had 10 bags/containers being shipped and then our carry ons and 3 personal items. Luckily we got smart and left all of the carry ons except one in the lockers at the checkin counter so we didn't have to lug them around and drag them back through security. Worked out great, we only had to MIL and her sister came up to see us off. Called both of my grandmas one last time. We went to Uno's for dinner. That is when I realized I had left my cell phone in the rental car that we had dropped off just before going to dinner. Do you see the pattern here? lol. Went back to get it, but Hertz was closed. Thankfully the other business next door was still open and I described the car, they came back with my phone. We headed to the airport, zipped right through security and waited our 2 hours. Called my dad one last time and canceled the stateside cell phones. That took forever as they want you to put it on hold or have a family member take over it etc.... Just cancel my stupid phones and plan please. Visited with the moms while we waited and tried to keep the dog calm as she had no clue what was going on.
More to come later cause I have to go to the commissary again.

trying to see if this is going to

2011-01-30T06:39:00.000+01:00

finally post to Facebook of if it is still blocked.
I hope to update here on Monday.
So much to talk about too late to do it tonight.

Great Smoky Mountains Wildlife

2011-01-19T06:01:00.000+01:00

It has been almost 2 weeks since my last post. But I have been sick and on vacation. After a trip to the ER for dh and I, (He needed to go and the insurance said I had to go to the ER or wait another 48 hours to go to urgent care!!!) what the heck is up with that? I am finally on 3 meds for a Sinus infection and slowly starting to feel better. So I processed a few quick pics from a couple of days ago.
These are some beautiful animals that we saw while traveling through the Cades Cove part of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. We saw lots of animals and I was very impressed with the trip.

This was a Doe that we saw just inside the loop in the woods. She was with 3 others. I wish the background hadn't been so crowded but hey you take what you can get with mother nature :D

These are some Turkeys that we saw in the fields beside of the horse pastures. I wish they had been closer. But again oh well lol.

The husband and I are pretty sure this is a coyote. Pretty none the less. We actually saw a couple of these but the other one was running through the woods. If you know for sure what this is I would love to know :)

He decided to sit right beside of the tree to the right as we were heading up to the restrooms but some car come flying up so they could get a picture of him. Needless to say he was up and moving again before I could fire the shot. This was right at dusk.

This buck was right along the side of the road and had no care in the world. I believe he even posed for us. And when I say us I have to give credit to "the husband" as he actually pressed the shutter and snapped this beautiful image. I set the focal point and all settings to get the right exposure etc.. I think we work pretty well as a team lol.

We also saw a black bear cub, unfortunately I didn't get a shot of it as the was literally a "crazy" lady in front of us who jumped out of her car as soon as the bear ran in front of them and chased the poor thing across the field and into the woods. I really think she was crazy as apparently she doesn't know that "mama" was more than likely watching her every move, either that or the cub is going to be in big trouble when mama bear wakes up from her hibernation and realizes the baby is gone. Yes I was crazy in Alaska when I sat on the window seal of the van and photographed a bear cub there but I wasn't crazy enough to get out and chase him. But then the one in Alaska never moved haha, he just laid there and ate his dandilions.

I was totally bummed that we didn't get a shot off though as I am sure most of you know that bears this time of year is a huge rarity. They aren't supposed to be out. lol

I have some images of icicles, waterfalls, the mill etc.... coming up soon. Hoping the weather and infection cooperate and I get a few images of the Winterfest lights before we leave.

We have been trying to find things that were here 15 years ago while we were on our honeymoon but that is pretty hard. Most things have been torn down or things built up in front of the old ones. The China unlimited shop is still here that is one of very few things we remember besides the lights.
Any way ears are hurting will try to write more tomorrow evening or maybe even Thursday while waiting on the husband to take his Chiefs exam in Knoxville.

Oh man I am sitting here

2011-01-11T05:45:00.001+01:00

reading a friend of mines blog about their experiences while moving to Japan. I am so greatful that ours hasn't been as rough as hers.
You can read about her here http://ourimperfectlife.blogspot.com/p/favorite-blog-posts.html.
I met Debra and her family while we were stationed at NAS Corpus Christi. After reading her entries I will have to post ours as things are finally done. Luckily for us our whole process is going more smoothly than hers I think mainly due to the fact that we have more time to get everything set up. When all is said and done there will be 13 months between the time we found out we were moving to Naples and the time we actually get there. That wasn't our choice btw....
I was reading her blog while backing up my External HD's to my portable HD's. After having and entire 1TB HD fail on me last year I don't want to take any chances with the move. So I am backing up images to and from CD's, to and from HD's. I am leaving the CD's and Externals in Storage here in the states and taking the (4) 1TB portables with me to Naples. I will buy more once there as needed.

On a side note it snowed again today. It was very pretty but not nearly as pretty as the "white" Christmas we had. It was very windy and cold today. I hope to venture out tomorrow and get some photos. Hopefully the ice we are expecting doesn't get too bad. I want to venture further out this time :D.
Guess I should get going gotta get some packing done as we are heading to the Great Wolf Lodge on Wednesday as long as the roads are passible. Then on Friday we are off to Gatlinburg TN for our 15 yr Anniversary. Yes we are taking the kids, lol we always take the kids. That is the sacrafice of being a military family some times.
Hopefully I get to update tomorrow with some new snow images.

It is a new year and lots of things...

2011-01-02T05:58:00.002+01:00

Finally blogger and google are cooperating :D

are in store for us.
But before I get into all of that I will just post a couple of pics from our "White Christmas". I don't consider it a white Christmas unless you wake up with it on the ground lol but apparently that isn't the "official" way to look at it :D
Hope you enjoy.

Well apparently blogger and google aren't communicating. I will get the images up as soon as they both cooperate.

Dental is done....

2010-10-06T22:29:00.000+02:00

Went in to the dental clinic today for that portion of the overseas screening. Went well and we all got the green light! Now just get through the medical screening tomorrow.

Went to legal here, wasn't much help as I had expected. But I did get the contact info for there. I am almost thinking that it isn't worth even bothering with the photography business and I should just shoot for myself, maybe sell some landscapes etc... Gonna have to disc it with the hubster.

Kids and I will be heading down to the Seafood Fest here in housing in a few. They are having peel and eat shrimp :D Wish the hubster was here to go with us as he LOVES that kind of shrimp. And hey you can't beat a "free" meal right?

Photographers who need a laugh #2

2010-10-06T17:19:00.000+02:00

rofl....

Photographers who need a laugh must watch!

2010-10-06T17:14:00.002+02:00

How true this is sometimes!!

Fotofusion Templates

2010-10-06T03:01:00.001+02:00

Just wanted to share some awesome templates from a great lady named Anna. She was so thoughtful and shared them with everyone. I can't wait to play but I can't until I get back to my photos. Anna I will share my plays once I get a chance.
http://www.annawhocropsalot.blogspot.com/
She also has some tutorials on her blog too. Please check it out if you love to take photos pro or not :D
Thanks again for sharing! You are Awesome! Sorry for taking so long to share. I had issues with Blogger posting.

If you are wondering what Fotofusion is it is an Awesome program for Scrapbooking and Photographers alike. I purchased this software to help me design my clients albums, but soon realized I could also use it for my own photos and scrap them digitally. There are 3 versions of Lumapix Fotofusion.
Scrapbooking essentials, Enhanced and Extreme (professional photographers)
You can check out the software here.
http://www.lumapix.com/index.shtml

Things are starting to get hectic

2010-10-04T01:13:00.003+02:00

The past few weeks have been absolutely crazy.
The husband and I went to the TAP class at NOB mid September. We learned alot about our/his benefits. I highly recommend that anybody retiring from the military attend this course. You can go 2 times I believe. The husband still has just under 4 years left but we were told to attend here in the states as he would get much more information. I am sure we will attend again while we are still in Naples closer to the actual retirement.
During that week we stopped in at NAVPTO to find out how things were going wtih the travel part of the PCS. And as we figured nothing was done. Command had not even sent the paperwork over and as far as I know they still haven't. Not surprising.
Found out what we needed to do for the No Fee Passports and Visa's. So we typed everything up and printed them off, and took them in the following week. They looked over the paperwork and wouldn't take them because we printed everything front and back. Can't do that. So if you are applying for a No Fee Passport you HAVE to print the front of the application on one sheet and the back on another. Apparently the barcode won't scan if you print them on both sides. And the command had typed one of the kids birthdays wrong, and had not signed any of the paperwork. So the hubs took everything in to the command the following day. We finally have them in and they are being processed. 6-8 weeks for the turn around. Visa's we are being told will take about 4 weeks. Hopefully they don't get lost lol. But we can't apply for them until the end of the year. So have jumping through hoops we have done what we can for those 2 things.
Overseas screenings, oh my where do I start. That has been a nightmare. I have been trying to get the information needed for these since we found out we were going to Naples in Feb. Yeah I finally had to go in and speak to people in person. We have the immunizations and TB test taken care of. But apparently they are to be done at the same time. So I spent 20 mins at Boone clinic being chewed out because someone didn't do things they way this person wanted it done. Not sure which is actually correct. Dental screening was last week but when I confirmed there was a mix up and we went in a day early, so now we are scheduled for this coming week. The physical screening is this week too. Hoping it all goes smoothly.
I am so thankful we are not one of the many of people who get orders and report less than month later overseas. There are just too many things to get done and too many times you don't get the correct info.
Still waiting on the command to submit the paperwork for us all to Travel and by the end of Dec. we should have our flight info.
Oh and we requested a sponsor almost 2 weeks ago. Still waiting on that too.
As for the photography business, I have done a few sessions but since we were planned to be out of here the end of last month, I had not booked any after September. So if you are interested in a Fall or Holiday session let me know. I am currently looking into the SOFA Laws for Italy. As I am getting conflicting info as to if I can continue the business there or not. I sure hope so, I love photography, but if I can't I will shoot for myself and travel as much as possible :D
Who has started their holiday/Christmas shopping? I finally have. I have picked up a few things for the kids, preordered a couple of things for them also. Heading out tomorrow to pick up my moms. Got to get to work on the grandparents and great grandparents gifts. So what have you done so far? This is our first year since my hubs and I have been married (15 years in Jan) that we have spent a Christmas at home. Kind of excited but also worried as both families are so big that there is no way we will see everyone on that day, we refuse to be in the car the whole day. But the hubs will be on leave so we will have time to see everyone at some point at least. So thankful I am not having to put up a tree this year though lol. It gets old when you have to do it by yourself cause the spouse is always gone. And I am so short that it frustrates me at times haha.
Oh and on a YAY me note, I have started working out again. I had to do something, the meds for my back had totally screwed me up. Caused more pain than I started with and I have gained over 50 pounds in a year due to all of the side effects and not being able to work out. I am finally to a point that I don't wake up hurting every day (usually just a couple of days a week) and not physically sick. So Friday was my first day of working out. 3 days in a row..... It is a start. Friday I was only able to do 20 mins on the eliptical. Today I was able to go for 25 mins. I think it will do me even more good to work off some of the stress that comes from PCSing, so hopefully I sick with it.
Well this is it for today. I really hope I can post atleast 2 times a week. If nothing more it can be updates on the move to Naples Italy.....

The blog is much

2010-09-24T03:16:00.002+02:00

closer to what I wanted now. Hope you guys like it and I will be updating more. Let me know what you think!

Bare with me

2010-09-23T20:07:00.002+02:00

I am trying my hardest to revamp this blog to make it prettier and much more user friendly. Hope to have it fully done within a week or so. Have lots of updates to make once it is finished!

NAPLES ITALY!!!

2010-09-02T22:16:00.000+02:00

It is official, we are heading to Naples Italy in 2011. We have known since March that we were going but we got the official copy yesterday!! We are so excited and March can't get here fast enough. Now there is so much to get done. I sure hope the next 6 months fly by. Photographing Europe has always been a dream of mine. Stay tuned for updates...

Oh man it has been a long day...

2010-08-25T01:10:00.002+02:00

Updated to add the quick snap shots that I took.

Had some things that had to be taken care of last night so I was up until 2am. Finally fell asleep sometime after 230am. And then it seems like 5 mins later that the alarm went off. It was actually 630am and time to get up, cut Austin's hair, get the other 2 in the showers and be at NOB by 9am for Gary's reenlistment. We were up and, bathed, fed and completely ready by 8am. So we headed over the Nexcom to drop Sunrita's OPLOVE video and photos off to her. And then sit in traffic to actually get on base. Park forever away from the pier and then head towards the ship. Onboard at 902am but it didn't make a difference. Gary didn't get topside until almost 920am. We headed to the bridge, discussed what was going on with his releif and our orders to Naples. A little after 10am we finally got the reenlistment ceremony underway. Gary was discharged and enlisted in a matter of 3 minutes lol. They gave me a certificate (as usual) for my dedication and support etc... But someone forgot the kids. Not sure if it was Gary or someone else. I guess they will get theirs at some point. We celebrated with a cake. Certainly not the best cake but you could tell it wasn't from a box lol.
We (the kids and I) made it off the ship around 11 or so, and went to the Cold Stone Creamery to order Sommer's Birthday cake for Saturday. She wanted a Strawberry cheesecake ice cream with red velvet cake. Get to pick it up on Friday at lunch time (yay). This is the Cold Stone on Base, can't you see my excitement?
Gary finally got off sometime after noon. He decided that LoneStar Steakhouse was where we would go to celebrate his last 4 year enlistment in the Navy. Lunch wasn't too bad other than it took him til almost 2pm to decide where we were going. Didn't know kids eat free on Tuesdays there nor that they offer a military discount of 10% everyday and 20% on Mondays.
Now we are home and relaxing. I need to process his enlistment pics and get them up and maybe even creat a page or 2 for the scrapbook before we forget everything lol.
So after this very long winded entry I will try to get the pictures up soon.
Think I will head to bed early tonight :D

I believe my blog will be photography and everything else from now on!

2010-08-23T18:25:00.005+02:00

The kids and I are sitting here listening to an Italian learning CD that we got from the JEB Little Creek library. Some of the things come back to me from my Latin days in High school. Some of the words though, oh my we will be laughed at I am sure. But atleast we are trying. And the kids will get what 4 years of Italian for their home schooling. They really enjoy it, thankfully and we laugh when we mess up. I have been told by a few people though that we will need to learn the Naples version of Italian as it is very different for regular Italian. Wish us luck and off we go for more :D.

Sunrita's Oplove session

2010-08-20T02:14:00.003+02:00

Oh my been awhile again

2010-07-08T17:41:00.005+02:00

Time is passing me by. Ever since we got verbal orders to Naples Italy in February, time has been going by quickly for everything except the hard copy lol.

Hard to believe we are already in July. Last week was crazy, the husband's ship went to the Bahamas for some shindig. Unfortunately no photos to scrap for DH's album as he only got to step about 5 feet outside of the gate. They were only there for 2 days and he had duty the full day in port. Go figure lol.
He finally got home about 6pm Saturday night, which made for a very short 4th of July weekend. We lounged with the kids on Sunday cause it was way too hot to go any where during daylight hours. We did wind up going to see some fireworks that night. Started off by heading to Downtown Norfolk since I was able to get some beautiful shots there last year. After sitting in traffic and realizing most parking decks were completely full we got out of there and hit 264 and heading for Va Beach instead. Stopped at a parking deck on Independence Blvd so we didn't have to fight the Mt. Trashmore traffic. If you are just wanting to "see" the fireworks it was a good location but I only too my 90mm as a "just" in case lense and it was too short. I had trees (which are ok) and powerlines in the way. But all in all I got some ok shots. Hopefully next year in Italy I can get some beautiful shots again.

I will post a collage in a bit of the kids and the fireworks.

Oh and we did take the kids to Kings Dominion on Monday, and OMGoodness was it ever so hot. I literally thought I was going to have a heat stroke or something. It was fun but too hot to really enjoy it.

But I just wanted to say I have been pretty busy with processing clients photos and designing albums.

Like I said before things have been way fast since getting the orders, we have gone to 2 workshops for the move and have another to go but can't do that until we have orders in hand. The kids are moving from phase one in braces to phase 2. Can I just say "Sticker Shock?" This is a busy time of year here in Hampton Roads for photographers, but it has been so hot that many of mine have been moved indoors. My house and studio are turned upside down as we have been packing things we want to keep but no need to take. You know that huge dining room table that is not going to fit in the 1400 sq ft houses over there lol. Yeah that has been oh so fun. We have gone through things and had a yard sale, but gonna have to have another. We are lined up to go to a TAPS class soon, hard copy should be in soon and we are no where near ready. The husband will be in and out until he detaches in Nov., so most of this move will be left up to me again. And after our last move I could so do a DITY but that would be too costly for an OCONUS move. So I am stuck with the movers the Navy hires.

My house is turned upside down and I have another shoot tomorrow. I gotta run and clean but again here are a couple of photos from our 4th of July weekend.

Been an interesting day here today

2010-06-02T01:21:00.005+02:00

Not sure how many of you know but we have orders to Naples Italy!!!!! We are so excited, the time to go can't get here fast enough. Anyway....
The hubs and I had to meet with the Orthodontist this morning. We have one child that is still in phase 1 and ready for phase 2, one that has finished phase 1 and should be ready for phase 2 around July. The 3rd they are hoping can hold off until she is a bit older. Any way we were there today to decide what route we want to take for phase 2. We can do just plain extractions and make it all much better. Or he can have surgery and extractions and make it "perfect". I am pretty sure we are leaning towards just the extractions and make the best of what we were dealt. But the real question comes into play with no knowing what Naples has to offer for dependants with braces. So tomorrow at some point I get to try and call or go into Boone clinic and talk with Dental to find out if they have the orthodontic facilities or not. So that was sticker shock, insurance will only pay another 750. Our portion is almost 4000 dollars. Not counting what we have paid for phase 1. But we have started this process, we need to finish it I guess.
Once that was over we actually had lunch together as the hubs was going to miss it on the ship by the time he got back. He left back for work, I tried to schedule that drs appt. that I have been trying to get since Friday still with no luck. Worked on some photos, and took the kids to Soccer practice. It was parents against kids scrimage. Yeah that was a mistake. Pretty sure I broke my toe lol. It won't bend and it hurts like crazy to walk. Go figure, that is my luck. We are home and settled in for the night. While fixing dinner on the George Forman I burned my arm, blisters and all lol. Now waiting on the hubs to get home, as he warned me that this week will be late nights due to training.
So yeah I know this has nothing to do with Photography but I figure if I get into the habit of posting regularly the photography part of it will fall into place lol.
Hope everyone had a more productive day than I have. As I am still trying to search for answers about our DL's (North Carolina and Texas) as we need them valid for the entire length of the OCONUS tour.

Update for Father's Day

2010-06-01T20:14:00.005+02:00

"A Father carries pictures where his money used to be - so why not give him a wallet with a picture on it for Father's Day!"

I said yesterday that I would post an update with more info on the Father's Day Specials. I am awaiting the samples from the company to actually show you some of the products. So until then I will just post a reminder that we have until June 14th to hold the session and get the session fee at 50% off. As soon as I get the samples I will update the post. So check back often!

Father's Day Specials!!!!

2010-06-01T04:31:00.003+02:00

Book a session now for Father's Day!! 1/2 off the Session fee (some restrictions apply for locations) Hold your session between June 1st and June 14th for this special. Session fee is $75! That is 50% off. I offer many items that make great gifts for dad, mouse pads, mugs, wallets, shaving kit bag etc... Call or email to book your session!

Amanda & Antwan

2010-05-11T18:36:00.025+02:00

I had the pleasure of photographing Amanda and Antwan's Wedding last August at Fort Monroe. It was a beautiful intimate beach side ceremony. They had their reception inside the Bay Breeze Community Center.
Absolutely beautiful ceremony and couple. I hope you guys have a wonderful life together. Well atleast once he gets back lol.

Lots of new updates coming soon

2010-05-11T04:46:00.004+02:00

Unfortunately I had a major Hard drive failure last weekend. I found out on Friday that nothing was recoverable :(. So after running software recovery on all of my CF cards I was able to get most everything back. I am missing about 6-8 months worth of clients and personal photos. I have since learned that you back up tha back up. So with the new click free hard drive having arrived today and the first one being defective I am in the process of backing everything I saved up. With that said there will be lots of updates coming from past clients that I just haven't had time to post.

If you take nothing but one thing from this please make sure you BACK UP everything!!!

Gotta love it!

2010-02-18T14:22:00.003+01:00

This is my husbands command and it honestly doesn't shock me at all.
Click the title and it will take you to the article.
But basically it comes down to he had "sexual relations" (lets be politically correct here lol) with a female officer onboard the USS Truxtun. He apparently got caught. And has thrown his career down the drain. Yes we all know he is innocent until proven guilty. But the funny part about this whole thing is there weren't rumors or anything until about the time it was to hit the news. My husband received a call and was told the news. It was on the news within just a few minutes.
I think it is a crying shame that people flush their careers for a few "good" minutes. Seriously? And lets take this a step further, another military wife left her opinion about this on my facebook last night. We have people fighting to get women on submarines? Yeah how many would blow their careers then? That said, you didn't have these issues when women weren't allowed on ships! Don't get me wrong I am all for equal rights, but there has to consequences all around. Any way that is a different topic for a different time.

My broken A700 :(

2010-01-30T17:05:00.005+01:00

Here are some images of my unfortunate accident :(. I learned my lesson. You don't leave a 70-200mm 2.8 attached to the camera for extended periods of time and then pack it into a camera bag backpack. I did this but accidently dropped the bag and it snapped the lens off the camera :(. Oh I was sick. Thankfully I have an extened warranty and Insurance. The lens appears to be ok thankfully and the camera is out for repair. I sure hope they get it fixed soon so that I can have it back.

Any way try not to make the same mistake I did.

Sorry for the crappy quality it was low light and with my P&S.

The 2010 Norfolk Snow

2010-01-30T17:00:00.003+01:00

Here is a pic that I quickly snapped with the p&s about an hour and 15 mins ago. Sorry for the crappy quality, but I had no shoes or jacket on and it was COLD lol. Snow was blowing in the door etc... So I quickly snapped it and came back inside :D

There will be more later once we take the kids out to play in it.

Published!

2010-01-22T04:41:00.004+01:00

I was published in the Military Spouse Magazine February issue. They featured a few photographers and the founder of the organization for Operation Love ReUnited (OPLOVE). I will try to post a copy tomorrow. But for now here is the link to the "extras". Hope you enjoy. I am honored to have been published.

Click the title "published" and it will take you the page.

Finally in Nashville!!!!

2010-01-10T02:02:00.004+01:00

I am finally in Nashville and settled. My day started about 7am. I hit the road for Raleigh at 8am. Made it to RDU with no issues. Got my bag checked and through security all so my flight could be delayed lol. Wich is a rare thing for Southwest Airlines. Any way, made it in, Monica picked me up. We then waited for her cousin to get in. Hungry we settled on Macaroni Grill. Once we were done eating we went over to the Gaylord Opryland Hotel where I am staying. After a looooooooooonnnnnnnnnnngggggggggggggggg line to check in I am finally in my room and ready for Imaging USA!!!!!!!
There will be lots of new information to pass along to my photography clients when I get back :D

This is for Sommer

2010-01-08T16:20:00.007+01:00

My dd loves this song and video so I have decided to put it on here for her. As we have now banned them from youtube. So there may be several more to come lol. She loves Miley Cyrus and since she can't get Party in the USA on CD yet, I am posting it here so that she can still watch and listen when ever she wants.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M11SvDtPBhA

Kari and Davids OPLOVE session

2010-01-04T03:11:00.006+01:00

Yesterday I had the opportunity to photograph Kari and David. They are such a cute and loving couple. I truly enjoyed their session and truly wish we could have gone outside for a little more variety. All the same I think the images turned out beautifully. Here is a sneak peek of one of Kari. I will as more as soon as I get dh's computer all set for photography, so if the colors are off etc... I apologize ahead of time. My computer was sent back to the shop for the umpteen hundredth time right after Christmas. It is driving me insane, as dh's computer is slower, doesn't have all of my actions etc... So it slows me down tremendously.

Kari and David,

Thank you both again for allowing me to be a part of your session. I look forward to working with the two of you again.

The Picture A Day posts start today!

2010-01-04T02:58:00.006+01:00

I started shooting them on the first like I said I would. I will not post them everyday because I know for one that I will not get on here everyday and 2 that will bog down the site. So I will try to post every few days or so. With that said on Friday the first I decided to shoot a ring that was inscribed. In my photography course one of my photo projects was to photograph something with the smallest Apeture. I have an idea for this but it is just too cold for this girl to go outside unless I absolutely have to. So I decided to try it with a ring instead. With a ring I knew I would need my macro lens so I pulled it out and opened it up to 2.8. I shot it at several flash settings (which automatically disqualifies it for the assignment as no flash can be used). Any way I didn't get exactly what I wanted, should have actually stopped it down just a tad. But I am sure I will have plenty of chances to keep trying since it will be so cold here this week lol. Hope you enjoy the BW of it.

With the new year comes new changes to Breezy Cranford Photography

2010-01-02T03:34:00.007+01:00

Well I am certainly hoping that 2010 will be better than 2009. Many things happened in 09 good and bad. My husband was a geo bachelor in Mississippi while we were here in Hampton Roads VA until May, which certainly has it's challenges. Family sicknesses, cancers, surgeries and deaths. I hope they are all behind us now.
But with the bad there was some good too. The kids and I were able to go to Charleston SC to visit Daddy while they were commissioning the ship. We wound up in DC just to get away. We went to Oahu and Kauai over the summer for our family vacation. And then Disney had to put out their Military Discount that is always too good to pass up. So for Thanksgiving we wound up at Disney World. So lots of good traveling atleast.

I met some great friends and clients in 09. Photographed lots of couples, families and weddings. OPLOVE really took off here, so much so that we can't possibly help everyone who requests it.

With all of that said I am ready to start 2010 off right.
I am enrolled in a photography course, cause as we all know you can never learn too much. I am always looking for new ways to do this or that. I have a photoshop course lined up for later this year.
I don't make New Years Resolutions, so I am going to make "goals" instead.
A few of my goals personal and business wise are
* to get fit.
*get more organized and balance my time better (purchased software to help with this and made schedules)
*Practice new lighting techniques.
*Spend more time together as a family since the hubster will be home for the majority of the next 6 months.
*Try to remain open and understanding when the talks with the detailer starts for new orders (this is probably be the hardest of them all lol)
*And I hope to take atleast one photo everyday.
I will post the images here but it probably won't be everyday. But I definitely plan to post here atleast a couple of times a week. So be on the look out.
I have 6 photo projects that I need to get done hopefully before I leave for Nashville and Imaging USA. I had an idea today that I practiced with but unfortunately it won't work for my project. I will post it here later and start fresh again tomorrow.

Also if you are following this blog please friend/fan me on facebook as I have an awesome contest going on.
For all of my facebook friends/fans I am asking you to help me get more fans for the new year. From Jan.1 through Jan. 14th at Midnight who ever refers the most friends to my photography page will win a 2010 calendar with a collection of images from our Hawaii trip. I will do a different contest starting the 15th through the 31st. These contests will continue through June 30th. At that time who ever has referred the most people overall will receive a complimentary Snaptotes clutch bag with the portrait of their choosing. With your help I know that 2010 will be awesome. If you refer someone please have them put your full name in a message so that I know who referred them. If you click on the title of this post it will take you to my photography facebook page.
Thanks for your help and I look forward to meeting many new people, reuniting with old friends and making new ones.

Amanda's OPLOVE homecoming

2009-11-12T02:36:00.010+01:00

Click the first image to view the slide show.

Here are some images of Amanda and her husband reuniting after a long deployment. Matt is stationed onboard the USS Arleigh Burke DDG 51.
Thank you guys again for allowing me to be a part of your special day. Hope you guys enjoy the images.

Hampton Roads Navy Birthday Ball

2009-09-23T21:43:00.004+02:00

Been a while since I posted. But just found out that the date for the Navy Birthday Ball this year for Hampton Roads will be Oct. 24th.
The time is 6pm-1130 and no child care offered.
It will be held at Rockwell Hall on NAB Little Creek.
I guess this will be dh's birthday dinner again.
I sure hope I can drop atleast 10 pounds between now and then. Hope to see some of you there :D

2 week Baby shoot

2009-09-10T04:39:00.005+02:00

Today I had the honor of photographing a beautiful baby boy today. He got a bit cranky but we waited for him. Hope you enjoy. Doug and Shauna thank you guys so much for having me photograph him. I hope you guys have a safe trip and that all goes well in OK. And keep in touch!

Thanks again!

The Enchanted Forest Fairy Day

2009-09-03T06:47:00.003+02:00

Just wanted to put the information out there for those who may be interested in my promotional First Annual Enchanted Forest Fairy Day.

The Enchanted Forest Fairy Day promotion is fastly approaching!
Saturday Oct 3rd 2009 is the day so mark your calendars and join me for a magical day that you and your daughter will never forget. She gets to dress up like a magical fairy and have beautiful portraits made, that you can both treasure forever.

Space is limited so please call today to set up your session!

757-305-9652

Fairies

2009-09-02T04:33:00.005+02:00

Here are some Fairy photos that I took of my daughter for her 9th Birthday. I have many more to process. But I think they turned out great! Keep an eye out for and upcoming specia; "fairy Day". I plan to have the details up by the end of the week. If you are interested please contact me now. As there are only a limited number of sessions available.

Gorgeous Couple from OPLOVE Session

2009-09-01T06:56:00.003+02:00

Jamie is retiring!

2009-09-01T03:54:00.004+02:00

These are a couple of quick edits I did for Jamie. She is retiring from the Air Force. Doesn't look it at all.
Jamie it was great to work with you and I wish you lots of luck in the civillian world. I hope everything goes great for you. And I hope you have an awesome time in Grand Cayman!

Hawaii

2009-08-31T06:14:00.018+02:00

A sea turtle at Tunnels Bay Kauai

A Sea Cucumber

My husband at Tunnels Bay snorkeling.

Fish at Tunnels Bay.

My son snorkeling.

Napli Coast Kauai, Hawaii

Napali Coast Kauai Hawaii from the air with Interisland Helicopter Tours

Spouting Horn Kauai

Here are just a couple of images from Hawaii, far from my favorites I am sure I have clients I have to work on first. But here are a couple just the same. The underwater ones were shot with a P&S which I am not good with lol. P&S's are just too slow for me.
Just the same they were shot with the Canon D10. It is a nice little underwater camera. I would have prefered taking my DSLR under instead but the insurance company didn't want to cover the housing I wanted, so I opted to just buy and underwater camera instead. The kids love that I did too. I am pretty sure I have atleast one photographer in the making. Austin shot many photos on the Home of the Brave tour, especially the Arizona Memorial and most of them turned out pretty good. Since all three of them want to shoot all the time, I will be incorporating photography into their lessons this year. This camera though takes a beating and keeps on ticking. We dropped it a couple of times I believe. It was smashed up against the rocks and coral several times while snorkeling. And the boat ride with Holo holo from the "Forbidden" Island across the channel was choppy to say the least, so it got tossed around a couple of times onboard too.

Amanda and Antwans Wedding

2009-08-31T05:52:00.007+02:00

Amanda and Antwan,
Thank you guys so much for allowing me to be a part of you beautiful day. You guys were fantastic, and your families were great too. I had an awesome time photographing you two. One can see the love you two share for one another and I truely think you guys were made for each other. I hope you spend MANY MANY Happy and Wonderful years together. Below I have posted a couple of quick edits. You are more than welcome to snag them if you like. I just request that you please leave the watermark in them :D Can't wait to get started on your album. Oh and Jonathan and Andrew thank you both so much for every thing! Even if you couldn't find my keys :D
Thanks again!

OPLOVE Session

2009-08-29T05:17:00.004+02:00

Skye thanks so much for asking me to be a part of your special day. These are just a couple of sneek peeks. I hope you enjoy.

Props

2009-08-25T02:14:00.007+02:00

This is one headpiece I will be using in the fairy photos.

Here are some photos of a few props that I use in my business. I have many more and will update as I get to more of them. Sorry for the bad quality, they were done on my P&S. The dresses are Fairy Costumes for my upcoming Fairy Day.

YAY Army Wives DVDs

2009-06-14T00:20:00.004+02:00

Yay, I reveived my Army Wives Season 1 and 2 DVDs from Operation Homefront and Lifetime Network today. I can't wait until I actually have time to sit down and watch them. I may have to plan a girls night with some friends when I do.

Today the kids and I went to Triple R Ranch in Chesapeake for the Lincoln Military Housing Kids Crew event.
It was fun, until the rain came atleast.
The kids got to eat snow cones, have an "old time" photo made (dressed up and all). We went on a 45 min Horseback riding trail and even made a leather craft.
They also offered archery, fed us hamburgers and hot dogs, swimming in the pool, canoeing, fishing, washable tatoos and even a hay ride.
The kids really enjoyed it, just wish Dad was here. Hopefully he will be here for the next event they offer. I hope to have a couple of photos up in a couple of weeks of the kids, but obviously clients come first.

And my OPLOVE session with Donna was rescheduled again, that is twice this week. This crazy weather has really messed up my schedule lol.

Woohoo

2009-06-09T22:48:00.004+02:00

I just found out that I won Seasons 1 & 2 of Army Wives!!! How cool is that!?!? I won it from Operation Homefront. They did a live chat during the season premier on Sunday. Lifetime Network donated the boxed sets.
I really love this show and even got to see where some of it is filmed while we were in Charleston in April. Unfortunately they weren't filming the week we were there. I will post more once I know about the disc sets. I am so excited. Now maybe I can get the hubby hooked on it too lol.
Just thought I would share my great news.

Christy OPLOVE

2009-06-09T05:23:00.004+02:00

Today I had the pleasure of photographing Christy and her boys for an OPLOVE session. Two gorgeous boys you have there Christy. Thanks so much for choosing me as your Operation Love ReUnited photographer. I had fun and it was great meeting you guys.
And here is your sneek peak from the session.

Jeanne and Bil

2009-06-09T04:00:00.011+02:00

Here are some photos from yesterdays beautiful wedding. It was held at Grand Affairs Chesapeake.

And thankfully it was nice weather to boot. With all of the rain we have been having here in Hampton Roads it was nice to have a day without rain.

Jeanne and Bil you guys make a beautiful couple.
Your wedding was so beautiful and I am greatful that you picked me to be your photographer and capture your special day.

As I mentioned here is a sneek peak of your wedding day images. Hope you enjoy.

Easter Portraits

2009-05-10T01:57:00.006+02:00

Here are a couple of Easter portraits. We went back home to Montgomery County North Carolina over spring break to visit with family. The grandparents got the kids bunnies for Easter and they totally love them. Can't you tell in the portraits? I plan to offer bunny portraits in 2010!!! So keep that in mind for you Easter Portraits.

USS Truxtun update

2009-05-02T00:41:00.000+02:00

Just wanted to update that 3 of my USS Truxtun DDG 103 images were posted on NavSource Naval History. There website is http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.navsource.org/archives/05/050110318.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.navsource.org/archives/05/01103.htm&usg=__pKVZ4_XQDQ6bWJQdTf6Z1HL6BuY=&h=533&w=800&sz=137&hl=en&start=16&sig2=9-iYlwHM1u8HfLTOMfXJBw&um=1&tbnid=pcttLhn9q8h70M:&tbnh=95&tbnw=143&prev=/images%3Fq%3Duss%2Btruxtun%2Bddg%2B103%26hl%3Den%26rlz%3D1R2GGLL_en%26sa%3DN%26um%3D1&ei=cAYGSoj3M8XcmQeYt73qBA

2 of thechoosen 3 images are posted in the post below. They would be the last 2 images.

These 3 particular images were taken as the ship was leaving the Cruise Passenger Terminal Pier and heading for Naval Weapon Station Charleston. I just wish there had been a few clouds in the direction of the bridge that day.

Or you can just click on the title to this post and it will take you there. I think this is a great and I hope I am able to contribute more images to them in the future!
Thanks again Fred!

USS Truxtun Entering Charleston Bay and Commissioning

2009-04-29T04:23:00.008+02:00

I was able to spend the last week in Charleston South Carolina for the Commissioning of the USS Truxtun DDG 103.

Here are several that I have had a chance to process. Some of these are from the ship coming into the Charleston Harbor and others are from the actual commissioning.

I will be posting images as I have time to process them. Check back soon for more.

OPERATION LOVE REUNITED

2009-04-11T03:32:00.000+02:00

Here are some images from the USS Ramage Homecoming on April 1st. I photographed three families that day and got some great shots of each one.

Senior Portrait Session

2009-03-17T05:35:00.003+01:00

Images to follow soon.

The Sessions
The 30
30 min. session
2 outfits
Indoors only
$49 session due at time of booking
12-15 poses
$149 advance due at time of Session

The 60
60 min. session
4 outfits
Indoor/outdoor
$89 due at time of booking
25-30 poses
$249 advance due at time of session

The 90
90 min. session
6 outfits
Indoor/outdoor
$119
40-50 poses due at time of booking
Complimentary Proof book
$399 advance due at time of session

Appointments:

Q: How do I make an appointment to get my senior portraits taken?
A: All you need to do is call 757-305-9652 to make an appointment.

Q: Do my parents need to be with me while I get my photos taken?
A: No, parents are not required, they can tag along if they like but most seniors are more comfortable with a friend or 2 coming along instead.

Q: When should I schedule to get my senior session?
A: The sooner the better. It is best to have them taken the summer before your senior year starts. This is because your yearbook prints are usually due within the first month or two of the school year.

Q: What should I bring to my appointment?
A: Depending upon which sitting you have chosen, bring the number of outfits you would like to wear in your pictures. Clothes that have wild, large, or bright patterns can be distracting and take the focus away from you. Please refrain from wearing logos. Also preferably no sleeveless tops or micro mini skirts. In addition, feel free to bring whatever items you would like to bring that express who you are. For example: Sports gear/uniform/letterman’s jacket, musical instruments, pets, car/truck, etc.

Q. Can I bring my pet with me?
A: YES!!! Pets are encouraged. If you have a favorite small pet please bring it to our studio, if your pet is too large (horses for example) we will be more than happy to go on location to accommodate your animal friend. Call ahead to discuss details, and please keep in mind cats don't enjoy portraits as much as dogs.

Q. What time should I arrive for my portrait session?
A: We suggest at least 10 minutes prior to your session to get comfortable with us and the setting.

Q. What will my session be like?
A: In one word it will be FUN. We are dedicated to providing a friendly atmosphere that brings out the best true portrait of each individual.

Q. Can I bring a friend?
A: I recommend that you bring a friend to watch us create your portraits. You can even include your friend in some of YOUR images.

Q: Do you take outdoor portraits?
A: Yes. These can be done at the location of your choice.

Q: I do not live in the Hampton Roads area. Do you travel and if so, what does it cost?
A: I will travel outside of the Hampton Roads Va. The cost is at the hourly rate of $50 for travel (to and from) and if necessary, room and board for the night. This does not apply to sessions in Montgomery County NC. If you are booking in NC but outside of Montgomery County it would be hourly from Troy, NC, not VA

Contracts/Forms/Deposits:

Q: Why do I need to fill out a contract?
A: A contract is filled out for several reasons. One is to reserve your session date on the calendar. The contract serves as a release, which allows Breezy Cranford Photography to take your picture and post on my website for viewing. It specifies exactly what Collection you are getting, the price, and all of the terms and agreements decided upon. If you are a minor and under the age of 18 a parent or guardian must sign the documents.

Q: Can I make payments or do I have to pay for my senior collection in full?
A: Yes you can make payments as long as the advance is paid in full before the proof book is ordered.

Sittings and Collections:

Q: What happens if I need/want more than my Advance covers?
A: Breezy Cranford Photography has created several collections just for seniors to choose from to maximize your advance. Additional items can be added to any order.

Proofs:

Q: How long does it take to get my proofs back?
A: It generally takes 3-4 weeks for your proofs to be ready for viewing. We will schedule a time to pick them up at your session.

Q: What format will my proofs be in?
A: All proofs are 4x6 in size and bound in a 5x7 spiral album. In addition, electronic proofs will be securely posted online for viewing by family and friends.

Additional Prints and Reorders:

Q: Is there a fee to reorder prints at a later time?
A: No, I do not charge a reorder fee. The cost of the prints would be charged at the current published list price at the time of the reorder.

Yearbook Pictures:

Q: How do I go about getting my yearbook picture to the school?
A: Breezy Cranford Photography will either mail or email your yearbook image to the yearbook staff/teacher by the deadline depending upon the format requested by the school.

Ambassador Programs:

Q: Do you have an ambassador program? What does it entail?
A: Yes. With the ambassador program, seniors get a complimentary 2 hour session. Proof album with all images when you refer at least 12 seniors who hold their booking. 50 Wide Screen Wallets, $5 cash referral for each paid booking, 50 referral Book marks and Favorite 5 images (web sized) on thumb drive/CD. You also receive 50% off my senior collections for your hard work. You can apply for the ambassador program between January of your junior year through August before your senior year.

Q: What are widescreen wallets?
A: They are business card size (2x3.5) are and two sided. They are printed on a card stock that has a pearl finish and are UV coated for protection. They are so neat

Clients
Complimentary Proof Book with 5 booked/held referrals
Purchase Proof Book for $149 without referrals

Ambassador Program
Complimentary 2hr Session
50 Wide Screen Wallets
$5 cash referral for each paid booking
Complimentary Proof Book with 12 booked/held referrals
50 Book marks
Favorite 5 images (web sized) on thumb drive/CD

If you are interested in the Ambassador Program please contact me at 757-305-9652 or email me at Breezy@BreezyCranfordPhotography.com
I am looking for 2 reps from any local Hampton Roads High Schools and also 2 from East Montgomery and 2 from West Montgomery High Schools in NC.

Montgomery County NC

2009-03-17T03:44:00.003+01:00

I will be heading your way this weekend. March 19th through the 24th. If you are interested in those complimentary sessions for the Portrait contest let me know.
I am also looking for a couple of Senior reps from East and West Montgomery High.

gettting published

2009-03-17T01:41:00.000+01:00

Technorati Profile

Millers Baby and Child Photography Contest

2009-03-16T06:37:00.002+01:00

I would love to photograph your child or baby. I will be offering Free Sessions for Baby and Child Sessions. As long as you agree to submitting an image to the contest.
Call me at 757-305-9652 or email me at Breezy@BreezyCranfordPhotography.com to book your session or if you have questions.

New Products!

2009-03-13T01:17:00.004+01:00

The Perfect Mother’s Day Gift!

Give a gift every mother will cherish for Mother's Day!!

A custom photo handbag from Breezy Cranford Photography
Thanks so much for trusting me to capture your family in photography. I wanted to share with you one of my favorite Mother's Day gift ideas. Just give me a call or hit reply to this email if you are interested and I can send you more information on my photo handbag line.

Sincerely,

Breezy
http://www.breezycranfordphotography.com/
757.305.9652

Here are a couple of Images

2009-01-20T05:08:00.005+01:00

From Montgomery County NC before and after my trip Westward for Imaging USA.

The first one is a quick snap of a double rainbow. It peeped through for about 30-45 seconds before more storms came through. The winds were so bad it sounded like a Tornado was coming, luckily it wasn't but there were some major power outages.
It was taken from my moms front porch.

The second 2 were from a week later when I got back into town the temperatures were down into the single digits. I saw the fountain in the town of Star at the Star B&B. So I jumped out and snapped a couple.

Some photos from Andy

2009-01-19T21:49:00.004+01:00

Korina, Breezy and Andy

Breezy & Andy

Our PPA meet up

These were some photos Andy took at Imaging USA.

We had a great time can't ya tell :D

Super Bowl Sunday Boudoir Photo Session

2009-01-19T03:03:00.003+01:00

Anyone interested in a boudoir session next Sunday is the day!I am going to offer 45 min Sessions for $25.If you Bring 2 friends who also hold a session your session is FREE!!!! Your session will be up to 45 mins long and you are only limited to clothing changes dependent on time. I will only be using the black and white backgrounds to keep the session running smoothly and to get as much photography time as possible.This will be by appointments only. So if you are interested please contact me here, by email at Breezy@BreezyCranfordPhotography.com or by phone at 757-305-9652.This will be a perfect Valentine gift for him and what better time to do it, he will probably be so wrapped up in the game that he may not even notice that you aren't there. http://www.breezycranfordphotography.com
There are samples of Boudoir images on my site and my myspace page.

Imaging USA Final Update

2009-01-18T04:25:00.003+01:00

Well I am finally back from Imaging USA and at "home" in Norfolk Virgina.
I was too exhausted to update most of the time and then when I could the internet at the hotel was usually down.
So I will just update everything here in one big post.
I was in classes everyday starting at 7am. I got to meet some great and well known photographers.
Just to name a few, 2 that I had wanted to meet the whole time we were in Corpus Christi was Mike Fulton and Cody Clinton of Tricoast Photography. They live just south of Houston TX but usually shoot weddings all over the world and very few actually in Texas lol.
Hanson Fong, Joe Buissink, Anne Geddes, Bob Davis, & Clay Blackmore just to name a few more.
Bob Davis has worked closely with Oprah Winfrey, and photographed Eva Longoria and Tony Parkers wedding.
Joe Buissink has photographed many celebrities such as Jennifer Lopez, Jessica Simpson & Nick Lachey, Brendan Fraser, Kelsey Grammer, Hillary Swank & Chad Lowe, Christina Applegate, Jenny Garth & Peter Facinelli, and Christina Aguilera. BEAUTIFUL work!
We all know who Anne Geddes is!!! She is the one who started the craze with the babies in flower pots etc... Very beautiful work too. She even got a standing ovation in a sold out symphony hall.
Clay Blackmore has photographed Larry King, Forrest Whitaker, Jenna Elfman, Maria Sharapova just to name a few.

The expo was great tons and tons of products to offer. I can't wait to get my frames and bags in to show my clients.
The parties were fun and pretty good food too. And it is official that Imaging USA will be in Nashville Tennessee in Jan. 2010. I can't wait to go back to the Grand Ole Opry where the expo will take place.
If you a photographer and debating attending a PPA event I HIGHLY recommend it. I learned so much and met some AWESOME photographers, many who haven't shot Celebrity Weddings but great None the less!!
I want to thank Andy Contreras for putting up with me as a room mate :D
I truely hope it was as much fun for you as it was for me. I can't wait to see you in Nashville. BTW send me those photos :P I need to post them here.

Tonya I hope you passed your exam and are fully certified.
Don and Dee Barnes & Janice and your hubby, it was great to meet you guys and have dinner. Hopefully we can do it again another time.

To all of the photographers on the Southwest Airlines flight, it was truely fun and memorable. Maybe I will get to see you guys in Raleigh for the school. www.ppofnc.com.

I was also able to meet one of the Biggest Loser contestants while on my journies westward. Can't speak a lot about it but I do have a snapshot to post once I download my images.

And I have to say one thing about Phoenix, if you are going to visit and plan to use the light rail, make sure that the hotel really is just across the street from the rail station as our convention hotel told us that the rail was just across the street. But it was actually 4.5 blocks up and not your normal block either. So it took us about 15 mins to walk to the rail station and then the train ride was supposed to be 15 minutes but I never made it to the convention center in less than 28 mins.

Once I arrived back in NC it was FREEZING literally. I have a couple of photos to post from it too once I get them uploaded.

The kids had fun I do believe with their Mimi and Papa and then Nana.
Mimi and Pa got them 4 wheelers for Christmas, even after wrecking them they kept going back for more. My kids are apparently just like my husband, not afraid of much lol.
Poor Snoopy thought we had thrown her away, she still hasn't adjusted to VA let alone be bounced around. But she is snoring as usual now, so I think she is settling down.

But keep an eye out for new and improved things to come to Breezy Cranford Photography!!
Any way I think that is it except for the photos. So once Andy emails me the ones she took and I upload the others I will get them posted.

A first for me!?!?!

2009-01-11T06:12:00.002+01:00

Went to Burger King again today and I find it completely crazy that you have to deposit a token just to use the restroom!?!?!
I understand that they are for customers only but to me that is just strange lol.
Any way, the day was long got up missed the train and it 20 minutes till the next one came.
Then we were late for class, felt like High School again lol.
The class was great! I learned alot about Marketing and can't wait to start implimenting some of it.
My hubby called me so that was nice. And my middle son called to tell "I miss you Mom". How sweet is that?!?! It was a message so I will have to call him tomorrow. But it made me feel loved none the less lol.
No photos as my calibration ran out and I didn't bring my card reader. Apparently I forgot more than I originally thought lol.
Any way that is is for tonight. More tomorrow.
Hopefully I get to update with a SUPER BOWL SUNDAY BOUDOIR SPECIAL!!!

Phoenix Arizona and Imaging USA

2009-01-10T04:10:00.005+01:00

I arrived in Phoenix yesterday about 200pm local time. After catching the bus to the light rail, figuring out the light rail tickets and hoping on the train in the right direction, I was on my way for my hotel.
Once in my room I called my husband, mom, sister and MIL (watching kids for me) to let them know I had arrived and that I would talk with them again soon.
I caught the shuttle to Mill Ave. to grab a bite to eat is is now 530 EST and I am starving. After waling around for a few, I finally decided on Hooters I was in the mood from some Wings. :D
I then came back to the room and called it a night. Emailed my clients and got everything in order for today.
On to today.
I went into Downtown a little early grabbed some breakfast and then wondered around with my camera for some shots.
I finally got over to the Sheraton and checked in for my class for Imaging USA.

The class was great! I have learned a lot and can't wait to implement it when I get back to Virgina. And this is only day ONE!!!

So with that said to all of you in Hampton Roads VA, be ready for some great things to come from Breezy Cranford Photography.
Mainly in High School Senior, Baby, Event and Wedding Photography!

I am looking for 2 senior Reps from East Montgomery High School and 2 from West Montgomery High School in Montgomery County, North Carolina.

I am also looking form 2 high school Reps in all High Schools located in the Hampton Roads Virginia area.
Each Rep will receive a Complimentary 120 minute Photography Session including indoor and outdoor poses. 50 referral bookmarks and $5 for every booked referral.
If you are interested in being a Rep please contact me ASAP for more information!
It is about time to call it a night.
Can't wait to update tomorrow!

The Start of the NEW YEAR

2009-01-02T04:38:00.003+01:00

It was great to ring in the new year with my husband even though it was by phone. It certainly could have been worse. He called about 2 minutes before the NYC Ball dropped, so we celebrated my time not his. Certainly would have been better for him to be here in person but hey such is the life of a military family right?!? lol

Well not sure what to say about it. I am really looking forward to it. But I forgot my greens and Black Eyed Peas. Sure hope I didn't Jinx myself.
Spent the day unpacking and repacking for the next trip. We are heading to North Carolina to visit family and celebrate Christmas with them. And then I am off to Imaging USA in Phoenix.

I have decided to try and post here atleast 2 times a week. Hopefully with new photos. I am hoping I will learn some better organizational skills at Imaging also as I need to be more organized so that I can get the most out of my time. As I am also planning to workout 5-6 days a week, plus still homeschool the kids and have time for my photography clients.

Would love to buddy up with someone in the area that can help keep me motivated for the workouts, as we have a trip to Hawaii booked in July and I absolutely can NOT go there looking like I do right now. I am a stress eater and have obviously been stressed alot over the last 18 months. So if you are also looking for a workout buddy let me know. We can motivate each other through email and such if need be.
Thanks for reading and I hope you all have a GREAT New Year!