Clash of Two Seasons

Clash of Two Seasons, originally uploaded by MonicaSmoot.

Autumn is always a funny time in Austin. It's hot. It's cold. It may or may not be rainy. This year it has been rainy. We didn't have any rain over the summer and now the grass is starting to come back to life. But the leaves on the trees are still turning brown.

Discovery of the world's most talented sand dollar

Discovery of the world's most talented sand dollar, originally uploaded by MonicaSmoot.

Funny how time flies. And funny how life seems to get in the way sometimes. I've take a bit of a break in an effort to reboot my system. I didn't mean for it to happen, but I took a break from my camera too. I still took some photos in July and August but not nearly as much as I thought I would. I'm feeling more refreshed and motivated now. I think that's what summer breaks are for.

Another Rock Star Pose

It just comes naturally to her.

Bonsai!

My first live test subject. He's so accommodating.

Portmanteau & Polaroids

I ordered the lighting kit and it arrived the very next day. I couldn't believe how fast I got it. I got home from work and there was this big box by the front door. There was no way it could be the lighting kit but the address label said Cowboy Studio. I managed to leave the box unopened until Marc showed up 30 minutes later.

Then we dug in.

This picture is from that night.

I broke down and bought a studio lighting kit

It's not a big fancy expensive one. But it's something and I have one child who was more than happy to help me test it out. She didn't take direction well, though. She knows exactly how and where she's supposed to pose and didn't even bother to listen to me. I'll let it go because she probably knows more than me anyway.

End

And so it ends.

It's time to put the flowers on the compost heap.

But. Last night, my oldest and I went to Lowe's to get a window sill seed box. She sowed the seeds for about 6 different types of flowers and this coming weekend we will scope out the yard for the best place to plant them once they are ready.

I'm looking forward to documenting a new cycle of life.