I love old barns. Barns are really the only thing that can truly be used in the same sentence as the word “rustic” and still maintain the true definition of that word.

Today I lost a friend. He had a heart attack – unexpected and sudden. He was called home and I know he’s in a better place. Heaven is celebrating his return, he was a good, kind man. It those of us who are left behind that need comfort and the reassurance that life is still sweet and still good even with the hole that is left by Charles.

I can’t help but think back to the last time I saw him and his beautiful wife Anna. It happens that way when someone leaves this earth so suddenly. I found myself wondering if I gave him a hug the last time we spoke. I think I did, but I can’t remember. So I’m asking you to give your loved one a hug when you see them so that you won’t have to wonder this…

Now I’ll get some coffee and check my temperature!

For Outdoor Wednesday.

I am planning photos for the boy’s senior pics as we speak. He wants a somewhat elaborate set up and it’s going to take some planning. In the meantime, Steven’s mom asked if I could take Steven’s photo and finally, two weekends ago, we headed out into the freezing cold, poor boy. The black and white photo doesn’t show his red ears and nose.

I asked him meet me at 6:30 am. I wanted to get the sun as it was coming up. Unfortunately, this photographer forgot to bring her speed light. Thank goodness I warned them ahead of time that I wasn’t a professional.

Here is the SOOC – before. Half the photos turned out like this – I almost cried. I didn’t want him to relive the torture of having to pose for me in 35 degree weather – and all that planning for the perfect sunrise to be repeated again – ugh.

And once more my camera sensor is dirty!

Fortunately I was able to play around in Photoshop – what a life saver.

Until finally, we have this photo. I love his expression here, so mature, so Channing Tatum with whom I recently have become familiar, thanks to the girl.

I can’t wait to show you more of him!

For Sweet Shot Tuesday.

I admit, I’m a big New York Giants fan and I’m very happy with the outcome. It was a good, well played game.

Happy Monday!

I won’t miss you winter, but you had your beautiful moments.

Happy Saturday!

Can you start celebrating Friday on Thursday? Yes? Oh good!

This horse was romping in the snow and was such a pretty baby that I left him/her SOOC. This photo was taken on one of the rare snowy, blowy, cold days this winter. It just so happens that it was a day that the girl and I had to spend all day outside. Beside the irony, I trust that it happened that way so that I can get a photo of this pretty snow baby.

Happy Outdoor Wednesday!