Tami Paige Photography Blog

Day 28: Flowers

2012-02-02T06:00:00.000-06:00

...or as I decided to go with FLOURS.

Ahhhhh!! There are few smells I like more than freshly baked bread!! My sister bakes the majority of her own bread, and it is soooooo yumalicious. Yep...I gave it a celebrity mash-up name because it's just that good. :)

It's so funny, most of us are looking at this thinking how we'd love to have homemade bread...but her little guy has been known to ask her if they can buy the "bread in the bag at the grocery store" as a treat! Haha...that's alright, just pass those loaves over to me!

It's fun to have fun!

2012-02-01T06:00:00.000-06:00

Hope you're having a good week! :)

Bowl of Super Snacks

2012-01-31T06:00:00.000-06:00

I've got a dilemma...

2 get-togethers + 1 cook (still in training) =

0 clues on what snack to make

I need your advice!

What's your favorite snack? Or any fun ideas on what I can take?

High-Low

2012-01-30T05:22:00.000-06:00

For those of you who don't remember, "High-Low" is a game we used to play on the car ride home from weekend trips we'd take when I was in college. We'd have to say what the high points and the low points of the weekend were...So, I thought it was time for another addition of my Weekend High-Low:

Highs...

- Lady Antebellum
A group of us went to see the group, Lady Antebellum last night. I was a bit indifferent going into the concert since I only knew a couple of their songs. As I sit here, I'm listening to their album Own the Night that I immediately purchased on iTunes as soon as I got home. I'll admit, I'm an iTunes junkie, and now, Lady Antebellum, apparently. :)

- Chip'ins
I've decided that whoever invented these and I would be good friends...if there are two foods I love, it's popcorn and tortilla chips. Chip'ins is the perfect combination...I'm going to Rachel Ray it and say that they are De-Lish!

- Movie Night with J&H
On Saturday night, my sister, brother-in-law, their kiddos and I watched BBC's Pride and Prejudice. Yep, the whole thing. Mr. Wickham was just as much of a scoundrel, Mrs. Bennet still a hot-mess, Lizzy still my favorite, and Mr. Darcy...well, being all that he is in all his rude-wonderfulness. :) Sushi, J&H, and Jane Austin...can't quite beat that.

Lows...

- Car Repairs...ugh, even just typing that annoys me.
I didn't think I could dislike paying for car repairs any more than I already do. Not true. Getting an estimate and deciding to go somewhere else, and having the guy who gave me the estimate chew me out while I'm picking up my car and tell me that apparently I don't know what I'm doing and he'll "see me back here when I realize what I've done"...definitely trumps my dislike for the paying for it part.

- Christmas Decorations in January
I'm speaking of my own. My Christmas mantel that brought me so much joy in December, mocks me in January.

- Cell phone pictures
Somehow, I find that pictures taken of me with cell phones always make me look like Michael Jackson in his last days. Not really the look I was going for. But, I love this girl I'm with in this pictures, so that's a redeeming quality! :) This picture is compliments of her...thanks, Tara for the borrow.

P.S. Just wanted to say a deep and heartfelt thanks for all the comments left on the "Permission to Speak" post from last week. Sincerely, each comment just meant THE WORLD to me...thanks so much for those!!

Devin + Emily {Engagement}

2012-01-27T09:32:00.003-06:00

They're my first couple for 2012, and I couldn't have had a better start! I was giddy...absolutely giddy, when Emily and Devin asked me to shoot their wedding. I know I'm really excited when I dance a mental irish jig. But I'm Japanese so of course, it was very proper. :) As I was standing there talking to them, I was already taking pictures in my mind, because I knew that like those two are as a couple, we were going to be a great match. I just knew it.

I've known Emily since she was a baby girl as she grew up in the same small town that my Mom did. Having been friends with her sisters and sharing a lot of mutual friends, I watched her grow up from a distance. A few years ago, I discovered her blog, and if I were tell "our story", I'd tell you that that's when we became friends. :)

Back in the fall, shortly after Emily and Devin started dating, a small group of us went to Grand Rapid, MI's ArtPrize show. I started chatting with Devin, and when I heard Devin's major had been English and he was a writer, I remember thinking, "Hmm, I kind of really want to be his friend." I'm really mature like that. I'm a bit mesmerized by writers...I find that they're usually people who I want to listen to when they speak, because they have an understanding, whether it's conscious or not, of the weight that words carry. I love that quality in someone.

It only seems fitting that Devin, being who he is, thought to propose in a way that only someone like he could. Emily told the whole story on her blog (Click Here to Read). I think my favorite part of the story was when she said that he wore a sweater when they first met even though it was 80 degree weather, and she later found out that he didn't like the t-shirt he was wearing, so he'd rather be hot and uncomfortable over letting her see him in something he didn't like!

She said, "I was looking at him, his face turned from me as he said something about the coffee shop we were standing in, and I was watching his mouth move and feeling that already I was drawn to him, just by how he spoke. I thought it a bit quirky that he was wearing a sweater in 80 degree humidity, but even quirkiness was endearing on him."

They're having a very small wedding with just their immediate family and attendance...I just love that. I am SO excited and honored to get to be there as the one who gets to capture it through pictures!

Emily...I LOVE this one of you. There's something about it that makes me remember you as you were when you were a little girl.

Devin...I'm at a loss for words to say how much I love this shot of you.

Emily leaned forward and hugged Devin like this and said, "I do this a lot!"...those are my favorite poses...the familiar ones.

Gorge-ous...both of you.

I may have a small obsession with Emily's boots...I'll admit it.

We shot the indoor pictures at Devin's cousin's loft...we were lucky to get to shoot there as it was a perfect place for indoor space. Emily said to me, "We can shoot in Troy's apartment if we want...there's a lot of space and lets in a lot of natural light" Ahhhh, I love it when my brides know just what I want!

Trust me, they've every bit as awesome as they appear to be. Can't wait for the wedding!!

Permission to speak

2012-01-26T06:00:00.000-06:00

Can I be honest with you? I mean really honest...the don't-read-back-over-it-after-I'm-done-writing-this-or-I'd-end-up-never-posting-it kind of honest? I think I heard a nod all the way from Leslie in Africa, so I'm going to take that as a general consensus. :) Thanks.

Whether it be through blogs, facebook, or some other media outlet...I've found myself feeling a bit..."intimidated" isn't even a strong enough word..."inadequate", maybe...to speak. To write. I look at people's lives, their pictures, read their stories...experts in the field, whether that be in decorating, photography, fashion, cooking, or life. I can mistake what was meant for inspiration and instead, I set it as a mental road mark, that once I've hit their level of expertise, I'll have something worth sharing.

I keep waiting for my life, my business, my images, all to be perfect so I can get the nod that what I've got to say means something. That I've got a success story to share with you. I want a 10 step power point on a "how to" do life successfully. I don't have that story or the power point. Instead, I've got a lot of mistakes along the way, things I wouldn't do again, rejections, learning to develop a tough skin, and in-between those, you see the pictures I post.

I guess I feel caught somewhere between those who wonder why I write because I know so little and those who mistake edited pictures for a life full of glamour and perfect lighting. The one side keeps me from speaking...the other side keeps me from being genuine. I don't know which is more difficult. But like most everyone...I live somewhere far in the middle.

I'm convinced that people like Mark Zuckerberg and Oprah Winfrey made their billions on the very idea of giving people the permission to speak. No matter who you are. Some do it very little. Others? With reckless abandon. I often find myself staring at a blank Blogger post...wondering what to write. In my mind, I see a busy world...and by hitting that first stroke on the keyboard, I'm tapping on my figurative podium. As people click into my blog, I hear the room silence as people turn to look who tapped...and there I stand and here I sit. Looking for the permission to speak. On what? I know very little and am an expert at nothing. I look around for that nod...and I get it from those who like me, aren't perfect. Who are doing life with scars in their past, mistakes in their day, and a need for great grace to do better. I write to those who would rather live with wrinkles and stretch marks because of the experience that brought them than to be without.

I love you, my dear readers, my clients...my friends. Not because we share perfection...but because you let me both laugh and cry through this blog. The only vantage point I know to write from is my own. I'll share what I know and tell you when I don't have a clue as to the answer. So whether you've been a faithful commenter, shyly "confess" to being a secret reader of my blog, whether you're male or female, we've met or are still going to meet some day...thank you so very much, from the very bottom of my heart, for giving me that permission to share my life with yours.

My love.
Tami

Sick Days

2012-01-25T06:00:00.000-06:00

Hey there gang...

I hope to post tomorrow!

It's been sick days for me since the weekend...:(

See you tomorrow!

Tami

Insta-GREAT!

2012-01-23T06:00:00.000-06:00

A picture is worth a thousand words...

or just one...Instagram.

Currently, my favorite app...I'd highly recommend it. :)

You've seen my pictures! Now I want to see yours!

@tamiinoue

Paying it forward... {Part II}

2012-01-20T09:53:00.001-06:00

W.O.W!!!!! Personally, that may have been the funnest day of blogging for me that I've had!!! It was sooooo fun to read the comments left on Erin's blog and I just REALLY wanted to say thank you to each person who took the time to leave Erin a comment!! I know it touched her heart and it did mine as well! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!

From Erin...
My prayer for all of you who stopped and took the time to encourage me is that today you would feel the overwhelming peace and humbleness that I felt through your ministry to me. Tami, Thank You for using your blog to minister to me and so many others. God used not only you but each person that took the time to comment in such a mighty way. Praise Him for working in ways that so far above and beyond our expectations. I love you and Praise God for each and everyone of you!
Love and Blessings from Jamaica!

Tami,
    This morning I went down and had my kids pick a name from those who commented. My kids thought it was the greatest thing to hold all the cards out and pick one. I sent a picture of this first one chosen. Everyone was a winner in my kids eyes though as they continued to take turns each picking a slip of paper, getting all excited and running up to show me the name they had drawn from the pile:D. Praise God for simple things that bring us Joy!
     Have a great weekend. Keep looking up and smiling HUGE because God is always in complete control and I love you.
                      Be blessed and be a blessing
                                Erin

"Busy Mom"...I'll get that prize to you, from Erin! :)

What a fun way to end out this week! Happy Friday everyone!!

Paying it forward...

2012-01-19T06:00:00.000-06:00

I'll never forget that conversation I had with her. She and I were driving in a big van along a bumpy road in the very humid Jamaica heat. I looked at her and I said, "Erin, I just look at you and it just seems like you're living your purpose. You just seem really at peace and like that it's such a good fit. You're a missionary all the way here in Jamaica...who would have thought?" And I'll never forget her response...she said,

"I've learned that the safest places to live is in the center of God's will...wherever that is."

She's right, you know.

I'm sure some of you know Erin...and some of you don't. She's one of those people that I consider it an honor to call her my friend. To be with her is to be with someone who is genuine, focused, and purposeful. She's got the heart of a servant that is the backbone of wherever she is. I'm also guessing that she's going to be a bit embarrassed when she reads this...because she's not someone who looks for attention.

So why am I writing about Erin? She recently won a contest I ran here, and when I told her that, she asked if she could "pay it forward" by having me give the prize to someone who lives closer to me. I was thinking about it and realized what would mean more to her than a silly little prize I have to offer is to know that she's got people supporting her...

So here's what we're going to do...

I'd really love it if you would take the time to stop by her blog (click on this link > http://erinsjamaicalife.blogspot.com/) and just leave her a quick comment. It can be as short as, "Hey! I read your post!"...anything. From that, I'm going to ask her to pick a name randomly who will get her pay-it-forward prize. I know you're not doing it for the prize 'cause my prizes aren't that big! :) It would just mean a lot for you to let her know you're praying for her! You'll have til tomorrow morning for the drawing, but of course, you can ALWAYS keep up with her through her blog. She's got a lot to offer.

Thanks again for all the comments on my silly bloopers reel! I realized it's good to tape yourself from time to time...I saw a lot of quirks I never knew I had! Yowzers.

Dear Best Laid Plans,

2012-01-18T06:00:00.000-06:00

What happened?! I thought we were going to do our first video for the blog...talk about a lot of intelligent photography things...answer a lot of questions. How is it that after 20 min. of taping, all that I have to show for it is a lame blooper reel?

You really need to stop hanging out by yourself and meet Make Something Happen. I'd appreciate it.

Thanks.

Tami

Just 'Cause

2012-01-17T06:00:00.000-06:00

Drumroll Please...
ddddlllllllddddllllllllddddddlllllllldddldldldllldldl...hmm. How do you type out a drum roll?! Well, this is suddenly very anti-climactic. But stick with me here 'cause I've got a really exciting announcement!!

"I wish I had a nice picture of me and my husband. We haven't had our picture taken since our wedding...40 years ago!",

"I wish I could get married again just to have an excuse to have a good picture taken",

"Do you do session other than weddings?"

...it's comments like these that I heard all last year that has led me to introducing a new session called,

THE

Just 'Cause

I LOVE shooting couples who have been together for a while, no matter what their age, style, or reason...just 'cause. So with that, I am now offering "Just 'Cause" sessions. They will be a 30 min., one outfit, one location session and will include 1 - 8x10 print and 2 - 4x6 prints for $150.

However, I love a good special, so in honor of Valentine's Day, I'm running a limited edition so if you book a Just 'Cause session from now until the end of February, it will be $100. Your session will still include the prints mentioned.

So, stop worrying about your special gesture or gift you're looking for to give your spouse...you can give them something timeless that will last longer than roses and chocolates! ...How's that for my cheesy sales pitch?!

No, in all seriousness, a photography session is a great gift idea for your parents, significant other, or children and their mates...and 30 minutes shouldn't be intimidating for anyone...even those husbands who hate getting their picture taken. No worries...I've met them, and we'll have fun! :)

Just some details...

I just want to be clear, this is not a family shoot...this is a two person shoot! Your session does not need to be shot by the end of February but booked and payment received, if you'd like the Valentine's Special. If I'm traveling more than 60 miles from Bloomington, IL, there will be an additional traveling fee.

The spaces are limited, and will be taken on a first come first serve basis.

If you have any questions or are interested in booking a session, you can email me at tami@tamipaigephotography.com

Day 27: From a Distance

2012-01-16T06:00:00.000-06:00

I have many of them that I love...but this would have to be my favorite. This family tradition has seen us through a lot; losing one we love, introducing new friends, hanging out with old ones, pregnancy announcements, birthday dinners, meeting Rika, political discussions, frustrations vented, memories recounted, and just A LOT of laughs.

We call it Family Night.

One night a week, you can find our family eating dinner together. It's been our most faithful tradition. We started this when my Mom passed away 8 1/2 years ago. We said it was for our Dad...but it became a place of healing for all of us. I'm convinced that our family is closer and stronger because of Family Nights.

When they first started, I was a college student and was annoyed with this new rule that, "You simply don't make plans on family night. It has to be a priority." I thought I had more important places to be...you know, hanging out with friends. But I've found the ol' cliche to be true...friends come and go, but family is always there.

People often ask what we talk about...it would be about as you'd imagine. The night usually consists of us laughing at one of the guys and some story they're sharing or a joke they've told! All topics are open for discussion...politics, weird bodily functions, business, sharing recipes, a lot of teasing each other, usually one of the kids are being talked to about obeying, and always a memory or mention of my mom. You can ask my friends, Kendra or Leah, who have spent many family nights with us that we're a quirky family...but one that I love.

I'm sure as a reader of my blog, you get tired of hearing me go on about my love for my family! But, I won't ever apologize for it, because when you lose one of them, you quickly learn that you can never say thank you and I love you, too many times. Each one, my Dad, my Mom, Rika, my sisters, brother-in-laws, every little niece and nephew...have been a gift handed straight down from heaven above. And although I know I can never thank Him enough, I'll spend my life trying...

Thank you again, Dear God, for this family you've given me...and for this thing we call Family Night!

Snow Day

2012-01-13T06:00:00.000-06:00

Finally.

I L-O-V-E...love snow! It makes me giddy with delight! If I had my way, we'd have snow for 8 months out of the year!! So, as others have been celebrating our 50 degree winter weather...I've found it rather depressing.

When I woke up yesterday to see the flakes blowing in the wind, I could almost hear the angels sing! Ahhhhhh...at last!!

If you're like me and you work from home, you have to create your own snow days...which led me to sitting in my sister, Heidi's house, eating her signature chili soup with a homemade buttermilk biscuit. Others look for excuses to stay in, but I look for reasons to go out!

Happy snowday to anyone who had one and here's to many more!!

Say What?!

2012-01-12T07:28:00.000-06:00

Me: Hey Bek, I made such a good meal last night! You'd be proud!

Bek: Really? What did you make?

Me: Fettucini Alfredo with sauteed shrimp

Bek: Wow! Did you make it up?

Me: Oh...no.

Bek: Whose recipe did you use?

Me: Oh...by "make", I meant, I opened the jar and heated it up.

Resolution #2 for 2012:

Become a good cook with fresh ingredients!

"What camera should I buy?"

2012-01-11T06:00:00.000-06:00

Probably the question I get the most is from people who are looking to buy a nice DSLR camera but aren't looking for professional quality and are at a loss as to what to buy.

I would like to be able to shoot with all different brands and models of cameras so I could give personal recommendations, but at this point, I can only tell you what I know. So, with that said, I thought I'd share what I bought and the pros and cons of that purchase.

For those of you who are frustrated that when you click the button, there's a few seconds delay to taking the picture, I would recommend a DSLR camera. That is a camera where you can switch out the lenses...there's a much more technical term, but for our purposes, that's how you could know what a DSLR camera is.

My first DSLR camera was a Nikon D90. I would recommend this camera all day long as she has been such a sturdy and reliable camera for me. I continue to use it for my second shooters and it produces very beautiful images. I shot all the images I have posted (with the exception of a shoot with my nephew) in 2010 and before with this camera...

This was my first wedding and shot with the D90. There is very little editing done to this picture. Yep, my bride really had skin that beautiful!!

Another image taken with my D90

One of my favorite images to date taken with the D90...

I've never used a Canon Rebel T3i but it is the most comparable (in price) to the Nikon D90 that I can find, and I have heard really great things about the Rebel.

The one "con" I would say with my purchase of the D90 is that I bought the kit (meaning I got a lens in the same box with the body). If you know what kind of lens you want, don't waste your money buying the kit. However, if you don't know what lens and you just want some place to start, the kit can be a great option for you!

The Nikon D90 has a pop-up flash, which is great to have, and it also produces great images in low-light situations without having to get too grainy.

I could go into lenses, but I'll save that for another post if people are interested...so for now, if you like Nikon, the D90 was a great camera for me. If you like Canon, the Rebel T3i would be the closest thing to the D90 and I hear great reviews on that camera as well!!! I think that both Nikon and Canon are very reliable brands, so any of the DSLR cameras are most likely going to give you really great images!

Hope this helped!!

Day 26: Up Close

2012-01-10T06:00:00.001-06:00

...and personal with my sister,

Rebekah!

You know that there is no one in this world that I love more than my sisters, so I thought this would be a fun opportunity to show off one of them! Rebekah was planning supper when I decided to ask her some questions...

What is the most common nickname you’re called…or your favorite? And what’s the story behind the name?

Most common: Bek or Bekah

The story: Bekah is probably my favorite just 'cause that's what Mommy would call me. It started 'cause Carmen (cousin) couldn't say Rebekah so she'd call me be-tah.

Do you consider yourself to be a risk taker?

Um, NO. The riskiest thing I did was wear leggings to church before most of the people were...and it felt kind of scary! :) Matt thinks I'm risky because I'll try new recipes on company without ever having tried it first.

Do you tend to have a lot of close friends or are you someone who keeps a small circle of a couple very close friendships?

Small circle...I have about 3-4 people in my life that I could tell anything to and then about 10 people that I consider my really close friends.

So quality over quantity, right?

Definitely.

5 years ago, if you were to imagine how you’re life would be in January of 2012, does it looks like it does now?

Yes...it's probably better than I'd imagined it.

Wow! That's great to be able to say that!

(Laughing) Well, it's probably because I'm a pessimist. I don't think I was dreaming about the future. :)

What is your favorite season of the year and give me 3 words (or phrases) of what you think of when you think of that season.

Summer.

- Matt's not teaching

- Long days

- Fresh tomatoes

Would you rather wear regular socks or knee socks? Heels or flats? Scarves or hats?

- Knee socks

- Well, I think I'd prefer to wear heels, even though I don't a lot.

- Scarves

If you were to have any job other than the one you have now, what would it be? (Money or talent not being a hindrance)

I think it would be fun to be a personal chef or caterer for small parties.

If you could dine with anyone famous (dead or alive), who would it be and what’s one questions you’d ask them or one statement you’d make to them?

Corey Ten Boom because her book [The Hiding Place] has been one of the most influential books in my life...I think I'd want to thank her...for being so honesty in her book and for being faithful.

Do you prefer sweet or salty foods…what’s one of your favorite snacks?

Salty, but a combination is even better. My favorite snack would probably be popcorn...as boring as that is.

What’s one thing about you that most people don’t know?

That I have very strong opinions! If you know me well, you know that, but most people probably don't know that.

Is there a verse in the Bible that stands out to you right now as meaning a lot to you?

I've been more aware how Jesus is referred to as the Light and how He calls himself that.

Why do you think that is?

Well, our family just memorized a verse about Jesus being the sunrise, and I've been reading the book of John and He's referred to as the Light a lot in there. I don't even know that I understand the full meaning behind it, but I think it's interesting that God chose Light to be one of the most common metaphors used to describe Jesus.

Another verse is that one (Giggling, she points to a chalkboard in the kitchen with Provers 14:29, "He who is slow to anger has great understand, but he who is quick-tempered exalts folly".) I've been trying to concentrate on that one too! :)

Do you wear perfume? If so, what’s your favorite?

Yeah...Dolce & Gabbana's Rose the One

Do you like to travel or are you a homebody? If you like to travel, where is your favorite place you’ve been to? If you like to stay home, what your favorite pastime?

I really like to travel...I would travel more if I could. My favorite place I've been is Japan because it's my heritage and I feel so connected to it.

If you were to be a fictional character or a character from a book, who do you think you’d be? (i.e. Bell, Anne Shirley, Little Mermaid, etc.)

I don't know...Matt says I'm just like Helen Harriett (Jame's Harriett's [author of All Creatures Great and Small] wife)

Day 25: Something Pink

2012-01-09T06:00:00.000-06:00

So many of my favorite things come in pink!

Day 24: Animal

2012-01-06T06:00:00.000-06:00

The Maneki Neko (meaning beckoning cat) is a sculpture from Japan that is thought to bring good luck to it's owner. The cat is beckoning good luck with one hand and protecting the owner's finances in the other hand.

This sculpture is extremely sentimental to me as it's all over Japan seen in places of business, and seeing it brings back so many of my best memories growing up. This little figure means even more so now because my stepmom, Rika, bought one for me and Tami Paige Photography this Christmas! I just LOVE it so much!!! It sits on my desk and I love to just look at it's pouty little face wishing me good fortune in 2012!

I'm not an overly superstitious person...but I have to say, I love symbolisms, legends, and cultural traditions. I've never been a "cat person", but I've gotta admit, I love this one and the one who gave it to me! Thanks, Rika!

Day 23: Sunflare

2012-01-05T06:00:00.000-06:00

I'm saying it again. This shoot (taken about 2 years ago) will always be one of my favorites I've done. It's not perfect...or even good by some standards. However, there was something in this shoot that triggered something in people, and suddenly, I had people giving me a shot at being a professional photographer.

I remember standing in an open field without any shade and I wasn't sure what we were going to do. I held up my camera when this sunflare shot through my lens...I didn't know how it would photograph so I clicked...and I've been in love with sunflares ever since.

It's impossible for me to look at this picture and not say a thanks to Whitney and Isaac for taking a chance with me. They wore their love for each other on their faces and let me capture it. Thanks, Whit and Isaac.

Resolved in 2012

2012-01-04T06:00:00.000-06:00

I've done it all.

No...wait...correction.

I've made resolutions to do it all. I was going to lose 100 lbs, run a half marathon, become an amazing cook, read 52 books, travel to 3 countries, host every weekend, stay in touch with out-of-town friends, teach myself guitar, buy a film camera and learn to shoot with that, be able to do the splits (I'm not giving up on that one!)...you name it, I said it.

It goes without saying that I fit the very unimpressive stereotype of starting out with a vengence with my new year's resolve, and by day...uh, 5ish...it's not looking so pretty.

It's to the point that two years ago, I made the resolution of not making a resolution...and I can't remember what my resolution was for 2011. Yikes. Nice one, Tam.

A part of me wants to scoff at the New Year's Resolution tradition and name it "hopeless"...but it's the hidden optimist in me that keeps making them. So, 2012, we're giving it another go.

I've made three...and the cliche and vagueness of each is less than classy. But my first one isn't so much of a "good idea" as it is a complete necessity.

To quote my brother-in-law, Matt, "The story goes something like this"...

About 2 months ago, I found myself standing in our local sporting goods store staring at some 8 lb. hand weights. I wasn't sure how heavy of a weight I wanted to buy, so I decided that the green colored hand weights would look really cute sitting next to my tennis shoes. With that, I picked up one of the weights and at the same time, the remaining weights in the rack rolled forward as they were meant to do.

"Oh wow...that's heavier than I thought it was going to be"...so with that, I decided to opt for the 4 lb weights instead. However, when I tried to put my 8 lb weight back, it meant that I had to push the weights back that had rolled forward to make room for the weight I was holding. No problem, right?

It was about that point when I found myself calling for assistance from an employee, as my arms are soooo weak, that any pride I had, hit the ground, crawled away, and didn't claim me as it's owner. This guy helping me, effortlessly pushed the weight I was holding back onto the rack and trying to hold back his laughing said, "Maybe you should buy these weights". I couldn't help but laugh at how pathetic my weak arms were looking to him and I just said, "Yeah. I think you're right". He winked and said, "Don't worry, I can carry these to the front for you!"

So my first resolution?

Get fit in 2012.

What are your resolutions?!

Here's to you, 2011...

2012-01-03T06:00:00.000-06:00

I'm back! :)

Can I just tell you that I've been really quite surprised, touched, and overwhelmed by all the comments, emails, facebook messages, and texts I've received regarding my lack of blogging? I've gotten really sweet comments, and have discovered readers to my blog that I never knew I had. It's always great to have someone tell me they take time out of there day to read the craziness that is this blog, and it really has been a huge encouragement to me. So thanks to each of you who come here, and a special thanks to you who sent me a message or said something to me...it means more than you'll know.

Okay, I'm putting down my Oscar now. :)

So, to answer the big question I've gotten a lot, "Why aren't you blogging?"

...I'll be honest.

There's been a million reasons why, ranging from being really busy, to a bit of soul searching and reevaluating things. I have a difficult time giving candid answers or posting generic posts, and rather than turning this into a "Dear Diary" saga, I thought I'd spare you the hot mess and take a break from my blog.

With that said, I'm back now, and to answer the second most asked questions,

"Are you going to finish your 30 day photo challenge?"

...Yes!!!

It will most likely be a couple weeks, but it's going to get finished.

Until then, I hope you all had a really Merry Christmas and a great start to the New Year! I'm kind of curious to the resolutions you made...or maybe even more curious of the ones that weren't made! :) I'll be sharing all that goodness here, but until then, Much love to you all in 2012 and three cheers to 2011...it was an extremely wonderful year.

Cheers.

Tami Paige

P.S.

Here was my Christmas card and the winners of the Christmas Card suggestion is Erin D. (suggested taking pictures of me wearing my boots!) and Ben L. (suggested planking)...even though I ended up with a card that didn't show either, it was those two suggestions that led to this card you see!

Playing Catch-up...

2011-11-16T06:00:00.000-06:00

I'm playing a bit of catch-up!

Day 20: Bokeh (Photography term for "Blur")

Here's a peek of my desk and what sits on it! I love these little silly chairs.

Day 21: Faceless Self Portrait
I'm a bit tired of taking pictures of myself, so I took this picture of some of my favorite little men...two of my nephews. These two have the sweetest relationship...one that every sibling needs.

Day 22: Hands

I've wanted to blog on this for about a year. Last year, for Christmas, my sister was knitting a lot of her Christmas gifts, so when she asked what I wanted, I told her that I wanted arm-warmers but I wanted my fingers free so that I could wear them when I shoot weddings. That's when she made these amazing arm-warmers for me out of the left over yarn she had left from her other projects. It is one of the best gifts I've ever gotten...I LOVE them so much.

Check out the following links for more 30 Day Photography Challenge fun!!

Leslie

Miranda

Julie

Tracy

Megan

Heidi:

Heidi is posting to Instagram, so go start following her there! If you don't have Instagram, well, it's about time you did...it's awesome! username: heidirink

Day 19: Something Orange

2011-11-10T06:00:00.000-06:00

I've hinted at her in other pictures, but I thought it was time to give her full homage as my something orange...

I call it my F*R*I*E*N*D*S couch 'cause it reminds me of the couch from Central Perk!...needless to say, it's probably one of the best deals I've ever gotten as she became mine for a mere $75!! Good deals, button backs, and the color orange...love it.

Check out the following links for more 30 Day Photography Challenge fun!!

Leslie

Miranda

Julie

Tracy

Megan

Heidi:

Heidi is posting to Instagram, so go start following her there! If you don't have Instagram, well, it's about time you did...it's awesome! username: heidirink

Day 18: Your shoes

2011-11-09T17:36:00.003-06:00

Trust me...these aren't the shoes I wear when I work.

...but I had a request from someone :) to see a pair of my shoes rather than a picture I'd already taken of a bride's pair of shoes. That was my lazy plan A. So, I pulled out a pair that I bought off ebay from some person in China.

Cheers to the girl's best friend and to Plan B's. :)

Day 17: Technology

2011-11-08T14:41:00.001-06:00

This is a picture my computer took of a picture my camera took of a picture my computer took of me. Oh yes...the very important ways in which I put technology to use!

Check out the following links for more 30 Day Photography Challenge fun!!

Leslie

Miranda

Julie

Tracy

Megan

Heidi:

Heidi is posting to Instagram, so go start following her there! If you don't have Instagram, well, it's about time you did...it's awesome! username: heidirink

Day 16: Long Exposure

2011-11-07T06:00:00.000-06:00

So, I was going to do a picture of all the things I like to do by a fire...read, sleep, drink from a mug...so I posed all three of those in this picture. But, if you look, I'm nowhere to be seen!! And as I did this at 3:00am, it was a one shot deal and I just went with what I got. So there you have it...I'm actually all over this picture, you just can't see me 'cause apparently, long exposure makes me disappear!! :)

Happy Monday!

Day 15: Silhouette

2011-11-04T06:00:00.000-05:00

Wow...this takes me back. This was my first official engagement shoot I ever did...Matt and Steph. I was scared. to. death. I remember my first thought when meeting them was, "Oh no...they're gorgeous. I hope they're nice..." I think back on that shoot and wonder how I came across to them...I'm sure it was apparent that I was a bundle of nerves...but they were the ideal first clients to have. I often think back to their engagement shoot, wedding, and just them as a client...and I wish I could do it over for them. For so many reasons, but mostly as a thanks. It's not easy telling someone, and I'm sure even more difficult to hear, "I've never shot a wedding...you'd be my first".

I look at this picture and think and hope that I've grown a lot as a photographer. However, I'll tell you...this probably remains as one of my very favorite shoots, and even more, one of my all time favorite pictures I've ever taken...I think it always will be. It's probably not the best technically...but everything was raw and new. Every pose was the first...every idea was origional. That's a good place to be as a photographer...and I look at this image and am inspired to go back to where I started...and let myself get nervous again. To let that push me to do something new and take a risk.

I don't know that Matt and Steph read this blog...but if they ever do, I hope they know how much I'll always love them for everything I put them through as a new photographer trying to figure out which end was up, and for the big risk they took on me. All my love to you.

Check out the following links for more 30 Day Photography Challenge fun!!

Leslie

Miranda

Julie

Tracy

Megan

Heidi:

Heidi is posting to Instagram, so go start following her there! If you don't have Instagram, well, it's about time you did...it's awesome! username: heidirink

Day 14: Eyes

2011-11-03T06:00:00.000-05:00

Why curlers? you may ask.
I say, Why NOT curlers? :)

A Tami Paige rule of thumb...curlers are always funny! :) Apparently, I'm easily amused. This was actually my original picture for "Myself with 13 things"...hence the 13 rollers, but later decided on the scarves and hats instead. So call me lazy, but I figured this picture would work just fine for "eyes"...

There you have it folks...this is me, on most Sunday mornings while getting ready for church! Not too glamorous...sorry for the crazy picture 2nd day in a row! :)

Check out the following links for more 30 Day Photography Challenge fun!!

Leslie

Miranda

Julie

Tracy

Megan

Heidi:

Heidi is posting to Instagram, so go start following her there! If you don't have Instagram, well, it's about time you did...it's awesome! username: heidirink

Day 13: Yourself With 13 Things...

2011-11-02T06:00:00.000-05:00

It was going to be 13 balloons. Then 13 lollipops. 13 shoes, cupcakes, books, or chairs.
But somewhere along today, I decided each of those ideas were either unrealistic, expensive, or just not enough time to make it happen. That was about the time when I decided on 13 hats and scarves. So that's the story behind this somewhat frightening picture...so there you have it. Happy Day 13!

Check out the following links for more 30 Day Photography Challenge fun!!

Leslie

Miranda

Julie

Tracy

Megan

Heidi:

Heidi is posting to Instagram, so go start following her there! If you don't have Instagram, well, it's about time you did...it's awesome! username: heidirink

Day 12: Sunset

2011-11-01T07:00:00.000-05:00

I love these little crazies...

My little men...

My beautiful little ladies...

Check out the following links for more 30 Day Photography Challenge fun!!

Leslie

Miranda

Julie

Tracy

Megan

Heidi:

Heidi is posting to Instagram, so go start following her there! If you don't have Instagram, well, it's about time you did...it's awesome! username: heidirink

Tyler and Abby {Engagement Session}

2011-10-31T08:12:00.000-05:00

It was cold and drizzly...but that didn't stop us from having a great time. I'm often asked what my favorite thing to shoot is. And if I'd had to choose, I'd say it's engagement shoots, because of sessions like this one with Tyler and Abby. (Click here for the sneak peek) It's relaxed, a lot of talking, and it's when we have the most time to try things and places that I would have never tried otherwise...

Like this parking garage! It's never even dawned on me to shoot at a parking garage...this was all Abby. What a great idea! The depth and color that it offered was genius!

They are complete naturals...it's impossible not to love these two!

I LOVED that these two decided to do a silly picture (L)...I didn't even realize they were doing one until I clicked, and then I just started laughing 'cause it caught me off guard! I love moments like that!!

Ugh! You two...seriously. Absolutely gor-GEOUS!!

Day 11: Something Blue...
This was probably my favorite from the day! Hard to pick with these two...but if you've been following my 30 Day photo challenge, here's my something blue!

I'm SOOOOO excited for December!!! It's going to be such a great weekend...I can tell already! :)

Day 10: Childhood Memory

2011-10-28T07:00:00.000-05:00

This may be my least creative picture yet, but as my birthday is tomorrow, I found myself looking over old photographs...
Looking over these pictures...like the 1st picture of me (top L) where I resemble a sumo wrestler, eating my first birthday cake (bottom L), first family photo (right page), or my sisters and I singing (top R)...I feel extremely splessed for the incredible heritage I've been given.
I've gotten to live an incredible life these past 30 years...wow, 30. Weird. It's been anything but ordinary and I have God to thank for all of it.
My childhood is filled with wonderful memories....and although I'd stay in my 20's for another 10 years if I had a choice, as I take this step into the next decade of life, I turn around and look back with so much thanks and love.
So goodbye 20's! Helllooooooo 30's!!!!!

Happy Friday!!! See ya next week!

Check out the following links for more 30 Day Photography Challenge fun!!

Leslie

Miranda

Julie

Tracy

Megan

Heidi:

Heidi is posting to Instagram, so go start following her there! If you don't have Instagram, well, it's about time you did...it's awesome! username: heidirink

Day 9: Someone I Love

2011-10-27T13:08:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I hesitate writing about specific friends, because I don't want to in any way discount the other friendships in my life. But I got to be with my friend, Kasey, recently, and couldn't help but write about her...

She's the Diana to my Anne...she's someone where the title "friend" seems too distant. As you can see, this post today is late, and it's because I've sat here, staring at this image wondering how I begin to find words that would do justice to my friendship with Kasey.

How do I begin to convey in a small post, what she has meant to me? I remember meeting her at a weekend summer camp when I was in Jr. High. I was awkward, shy, and didn't have any friends at the camp. She, on the other hand, was everything I wanted to be...confident, energetic, talkative, and had countless friends. And yet, she found me and reached out to me and did everything she could to include me. Yeah...I still remember that...18 years later.

We remained friends and between our freshman and sophomore year of college, we took a 2 week trip to Colorado where we attended Summit. That sealed in the friendship as one for the ages. We've been like sisters since. It was Kasey that gave me confidence in college...because she never seemed to notice that I was weird. She would tell my stories as though they were funny and repeat my jokes that I'd say too quietly. I often hid behind her vivacious spirit but she NEVER ONCE tried to overshadow but instead would illuminate those around her with the brightness that is Kasey.

We walked each other through difficult life situations, heartbreaks, and celebrations. I remember when we heard that my mom had passed away in a car accident, I laid on my bed as Kase sat beside me and held a cold rag to my eyes because I didn't have the strength to lift my arm. We sat there in silence and cried. She's that kind of friend.

She's the sister you'd want and the friend everyone should have. Being Kasey's friend is something I hold very proudly and yes, she's someone I love.

Check out the following links for more 30 Day Photography Challenge fun!!

Leslie

Miranda

Julie

Tracy

Megan

Heidi:

Will

Heidi is posting to Instagram, so go start following her there! If you don't have Instagram, well, it's about time you did...it's awesome! username: heidirink

Day 8: A Bad Habit

2011-10-26T06:00:00.000-05:00

Iced Carmel Lattes...I'm afraid I've created a bad habit this past month with making a lot of iced carmel lattes at home! They are sooooo yum!

Thanks to my sister, Rebekah, for modeling the drink for me! :)

Here's the recipe, just in case you want to join in on the bad habit! :)

3 fluid ounces brewed espresso or coffee

1 T carmel sauce

2 T white sugar

3/4 C milk

1 1/2 C ice cubes

2 T whipped cream

Place the coffee, caramel sauce, and sugar into a blender pitcher. Blend on high until the caramel and sugar dissolve into the espresso. Pour in the milk and add the ice; continue blending until smooth and frothy. Top with whipped cream to serve.

I tweak this a little because I don't like all the frozen froth that rises to the top so instead of adding the ice cubes to the blender, I just pour this drink over A LOT of ice and lets it water it down a little. I like mine a little more on the less sweeter side so I don't add as much sugar, but if you like it sweeter, follow these directions...you may actually want to add more caramel or sugar if you like it really sweet.

Hope you like it!!!

Check out the following links for more 30 Day Photography Challenge fun!!

Leslie

Miranda

Julie

Tracy

Megan

Heidi:

Heidi is posting to Instagram, so go start following her there! If you don't have Instagram, well, it's about time you did...it's awesome! username: heidirink

Day 7: Fruit

2011-10-25T06:00:00.000-05:00

AahhHHhHhhhhHHHhhhhhHHhhhhh!!!!!

Apples.

My favorite kind of fruit!

Check out the following links for more 30 Day Photography Challenge fun!!

Leslie

Miranda

Julie

Tracy

Megan

Heidi:

Heidi is posting to Instagram, so go start following her there! If you don't have Instagram, well, it's about time you did...it's awesome! username: heidirink

Day 6: From a Low Angle

2011-10-24T06:00:00.000-05:00

This was a shot I took at a wedding from last weekend. You may remember this couple from this shoot (here).

As a photographer, it's funny what you'll do for a shot...you'll crawl on your belly, wade in water, balance on rocks, push forward in a crowd, stand on railings, and lay on the ground.

But it's not just us as a photographer...it's the people I shoot. Sometimes I'm just amazed with how much my clients trust me...I ask them to sit it weird places in uncomfortable poses. They're not afraid to show sassy attitudes with strangers watching, kiss in public, and carry their white dresses in dirty areas. I don't take that trust for granted...it means so much to me when I can sense that trust. When I see my clients go with me to get the shot I want, it means the world to me. I really have the best clients...they're flexible, chilled out, and always up for some fun. Thanks to all of you...you're what makes me crawling on my stomach for "Low Angle Shots" so very fun. :)

Check out the following links for more 30 Day Photography Challenge fun!!

Leslie

Miranda*

Julie

Tracy

Megan

Heidi:

Heidi is going to post to Instagram, so go start following her there! If you don't have Instagram, well, it's about time you did...it's awesome! username: heidirink

Day 5: From a High Angle

2011-10-21T08:44:00.003-05:00

Not a good start to my day...

Happy Weekend Everyone!! The challenge will continue on Monday!!!

Check out the following links for more 30 Day Photography Challenge fun!!

Leslie

Miranda*

Julie

Tracy

Megan

Heidi:

Heidi is going to post to Instagram, so go start following her there! If you don't have Instagram, well, it's about time you did...it's awesome! username: heidirink

Day 4: Something Green

2011-10-20T06:00:00.000-05:00

I promise I won't have all my pictures be of my cousin, Kait...but I simply couldn't resist using this image as my "something green". I took this picture in September at a wedding in which we were both bridesmaids...

We always joke about how Kait and I are soooo similar...she's me, just 8 years younger. But the truth is, Kait is me with confidence and very little inhibitions. I grew up pretty insecure...maybe even more than people could tell. I spent too much of my life worrying about looking dumb or being afraid to fall, in more ways than one. That's changed somewhat...I think a lot has to do with just getting older, caring less, and realizing how little others care...but I'd be lying if I said I don't still fight those feelings from time to time.

That's why I love this picture of Kait...doing what she does so well...livng in the moment. I think she's one of those people who will look back on her life with very little regret of things she never did or didn't try...'cause like in this picture, she doesn't hold back. She dances...and it inspires me.

Check out the following links for more 30 Day Photography Challenge fun!!

Leslie

Miranda*

Tracy

Megan

Heidi:

Heidi is going to post to Instagram, so go start following her there! If you don't have Instagram, well, it's about time you did...it's awesome! username: heidirink

Day 3: Clouds

2011-10-19T06:00:00.000-05:00

There's nothing that chases away the rain clouds like the edible kinds...

Check out the following links for more 30 Day Photography Challenge fun!!

Leslie

Miranda*

*Miranda, for some reason, I'm not able to comment on your blog, so I thought I'd say here, that I'm loving your posts! :)

Tracy

Megan

Heidi - Heidi is going to post to Instagram, so go start following her there! If you don't have Instagram, well, it's about time you did...it's awesome! username: heidirink

Some people are posting their images to facebook and linking it to my page, so you can post that way too if you prefer, or if you click here you can see their images that way too! This is sooo fun for me! Thanks everyone!!!

Day 2: What I wore today...

2011-10-18T06:00:00.000-05:00

Let's just say it. Day 2 is awkward. Taking a picture of what I'm wearing and posting it to my blog feels very "not me"...I have a new found sympathy for fashion bloggers who have to do this every day. Although, I think they enjoy it. I was dressed before I looked to see what my photo challenge was today, or else I wouldn't be wearing these wrinkled shorts. But, there you have it...it's what I wore.

Be sure to check out the other people joining me in this challenge by clicking on their name!!!

Leslie

Miranda

Tracy
Megan

Heidi - Heidi is going to post to Instagram, so go start following her there! If you don't have Instagram, well, it's about time you did...it's awesome! username: heidirink

This is Heidi's jeans she's wearing today (L) and what her boys are wearing (R)!

If anyone wants to join in for the remainder or take a picture now and then, just leave your link in the comments, and I'll link to it the next day!

This photo challenge makes me think of a feature my cousin, Kait (who is a fashion blogger) does every Thursday called, "Thursday Latelies". In her feature, she talks about things that "brought her joy" that week, so in ode to that, here's my Tuesday Lately:

1. Lord, Change My Attitude, Bible Study:

Let me start by saying that this did NOT start out as bringing me joy. Anything but, actually! In fact, every time I was done doing my study for the day, I was just an absolute bear! It was awful. I purposefully avoided being around people because it was just a good idea for everyone! :) This may sound overly dramatic, but I just felt like when you go on a fast, how those first few days, all the impurities have to come out through bad breath and pimples...I know, too much info! Sorry! But, I felt like that's what was happening with some really ugly attitudes I had that I wasn't going to get out of facing. Needless to say, it's been SO good for me, and I'm excited about the rest of the study. As you can tell by the name, it's very needed in my life! ;)

2. Mat Kearney, singer-song writer:

My cousin "introduced" me to his music this past weekend. There's something about finding a song or musician that I LOVE that just thrills my soul. Yep, Mat Kearney is a soul thriller.

3. Car Dancing:

You may call it "car dancing"....I call it awesome. I'd challenge anyone to a car dance-off, and am pretty confident that I could take home the prize! The problem is that as soon as I'm not sitting and I have to figure out what to do with my feet...suddenly, "awesome" turns to crickets. Trust me, I still manage to dance around my apartment QUITE OFTEN, but those moves are saved for me, myself and I...okay, and that one Mr. Meter Reader who saw me one time. I'm afraid he was more embarrassed than I was.

4. Iced Carmel Lattes, homemade:

I recently got the ingredients to make iced carmel lattes at home, and it's been a delight! I assure you, they're as good (if not better) than Starbucks! However, these delectable little drinks have also forced me to start running more. That does NOT bring me joy. :)

5. Colored Tights, from Hue:

An upside of not being known as a fashionista, is I don't feel any pressure to put together outfits that people like, 'cause if they wonder what I am wearing, I can say, "Hey, I don't know what I'm doing! I don't know much about fashion!" That's what I said when I bought my cowboy boots and now, when I wear my really fun colored tights I just got! Yep...red, purple, and blue. It's okay...'cause I technically don't know what I'm doing. :)

6. The No. 200:

This is my 200th post on this blog and I love everything that represents!!

Day 1: Self Portrait

2011-10-17T06:00:00.000-05:00

I forgot to mention in my last post that I think it would be fun if you'd want to join in on this 30 day Photo Challenge with me! (It's okay if you're a day or two off from me or you do a couple in a day to catch up...) Let me know if you're in, and send me your blog or instagram link and I'll post it here so we can check out your pictures for the next 30 days too! Even if you don't want to do all 30 days, and just want to do a picture now and then, let me know! We'll link to your picture...Hey, for my birthday?...I'm just sayin'...Wow. I need to start using that excuse more! :)

DAY 1: Self Portrait

Okay. So, technically, I don't think this is a self portrait as I didn't take this picture...or even know it was being taken for that matter! But, we're just going to go with this 'cause I haven't figured out how to take a picture of myself!

My sister, Rebekah (aka my second shooter) caught this picture of me from a wedding we shot this past Saturday. And NO, I'm not trying to steal the groom from the bride...just feeling out the pose! :) I've been known to joke about my very large personal bubble, but when it comes to shoots, all bubbles are popped! I love that my couples never seem to complain or question me getting "all up in their grill" to show them what I want...they're awesome like that.

And just for fun, I grabbed a couple shots of my sister being the best 2nd shooter ever. We always joke that being my second shooter is a great workout program as I make them run and carry A LOT!!! I'm not even kidding...And just look at her. She looks so chic doing all that. I'd argue anyone that I have the best 2nd shooters EVER.

Change of Address

2011-10-14T06:00:00.000-05:00

WhoooooOOOooOOOOOoooOooOoOOoooshhhhhh!!!

That's me being blown away!!! Honestly, I wasn't sure if I'd get Christmas Card suggestions, and you guys were awesome!!! Now, I wish I could send out 10 versions of Christmas Cards just so I could do all the ideas...but I guess I'll just save some of the ideas for the next several years. So, thank you, thank you, thank you. I'll have the big "reveal" in November as to what I decide to do (and the winner)!

Well, you may have noticed that my blog got a major facelift...yep, I mean the completely redone, Hollywood-plastic surgery kind of facelift. There are little things here and there that are still being worked on, but overall, she's got a new look. It all started with one little missing button...the "previous post" button. I lose a lot of things in my life, and apparently, the cyber world is no exception to me. I could not figure out where that option had gone. I had a couple people mention that they wanted to read older posts, but never knew how to get to them. I went on a search to see if I could find an html code for that button, only to notice several other photographers with the same blog as myself. That's when the decision to overhaul my blog was made...it was time.

This leads me to an exciting announcement...if you are someone who types in my blog address every time you want to check it, it just got A LOT easier. This blog may now be found under the address of:

www.tamipaigeblog.com

This is extremely exciting!...more on this to come later.

Finally, I'm turning 30 in about two weeks, so as my own little celebration, I decided to do the...

As I only post on weekdays, this challenge is going to take me 6 weeks to complete, which will take me to the end of November. I know it's a busy time of year, but I also thought it sounded really fun, and it's just a great time of year for photography, so I'm taking up the challenge!

Well, that's all for now...

Cheers to the Weekend!

I need your help!

2011-10-13T06:00:00.000-05:00

Here's the truth of it. Christmas card season is coming up and I'm always in a bit of a quandary over this.

And here's why...

I want to get cards from people. It's one of my most favorite things about Christmas!...the cards.

However, there are a couple facts:

Fact 1: Unless you send out cards, not as many people send you one back.
I learned this last year when I was being a Scrooge and didn't send out cards. It's the grown-up version of exchanging baseball cards.

Fact 2: People really just want to see a picture. The letter is a fun bonus, but really, it's all about the picture.

Well, this poses an awkward situation for someone who is single. I'm sorry, but it's just kind of uncomfortable to send out a Christmas card picture of just me...on second thought, I think it's uncomfortable for someone to get that card as well. But, if I want cards and it's all about the picture...what am I supposed to do?

So this is where I need your help, y'all!! I have a last-resort-idea, but think it would be fun to get your ideas on what you think I should do for my Christmas card picture! There may even be a prize for the winner whose idea is chosen...so help me out here, friends! No idea is too crazy, out there, boring, or weird. I want them all! You know me...I'll consider about anything.