Photography

I found some photography helps here: http://paisleepress.blogspot.com/2010/01/about-develop-on-fridays.html and finally did the first assignment. It was to take 75 pictures of something and then post your favorite and five runner-ups. I didn't think it would be hard to take 75 pictures, but it was. These are the roses that Cole got me for (the day after) Valentine's. I think it was so hard because they hold still, unlike my other favorite subjects. And after about 35 photos, I had to get more creative to get something different. Here's my favorite:

This is what started it out- I always take a picture of the bouquet after I get it arranged. So this is the obligatory rose photo.

Then after a bunch of these close-up photos

I started playing with the roses and the thorns together

and I liked this one too.

And then this little girl grabbed the rose to smell it. She's so cute.

The series of photography lessons will continue here: http://www.jefrastarrlinn.com/develop/

What happened to January?

What books and/or magazines did I read this month?
Better Homes and Gardens, Creating Keepsakes. I am craving books for me to read- I'm open to suggestions!

What movies, television shows, plays, etc. did I watch this month?
We are hooked on Heroes! We watch on hulu.com when we get a chance during the week. We haven't seen any movies and really don't even know what's out in the theaters.

What fun things did I do with my family and/or friends?
Jan 1st we took the four wheeler and sled out to the pasture.
What gifts did I give and/or receive?
None that I can think of. Although I have been arguing with Cole over roses. He bought me roses before Thanksgiving just because. Then he didn't get me roses for my birthday (he says he did though, but he's wrong) so we've been debating whose memory is the faulty one.

What special or unusual purchases did I make?
None yet. Our Camry died the second day of Cole's new job (at only 299,000 miles- Cole's so disappointed). So we're looking.

What illnesses or health concerns did I have?
We have stayed pretty healthy in January. Just some minor colds, so we're pretty lucky.

What were my accomplishments this month?
COLE HAS A JOB!!! Starting to get back to a routine. Cole works 4 ten-hour shifts Mon-Thurs so I wake up early with him, read my scriptures and get time to myself. That's been really nice. I did a freezer meal day- cooking a month's worth of meals in one day (almost). That was a lot of cooking, but it's nice to have the meals on hand.

What were my disappointments this month?
Had a few bad mommy days. Being over-frustrated with the kids and not having Cole home to help stressed me out a few times. But we're starting to settle into our new routine.

How did I do on my goals for the month? (Or any current short or long term goals)
Started a weight-loss challenge at work. We'll see how it goes. I haven't been able to work out much since Cole started work. But I think we're eating healthier. Started reading my scriptures regularly. I really don't set resolutions, but try to incorporate little changes bit by bit.

Anything else noteworthy to include?
My niece asked me to teach photography to her Young Women's group. So I taught them everything I knew (which took 15 minutes) and then we went around the church on a shape scavenger hunt. So much fun!