Happy Independence Day

I never grow tired of taking photos of the American flag. I am always taking shots on post at Fort Campbell when I take Sophia for walks. This photograph of the flag was taken [Read more...]

Sad Loss of a Dear Friend

2009.07.03

Deep breath… okay, write.

Today I found out that I have lost a good friend and it happened so fast.

It was just a month ago that we spoke and he assisted me in setting up my little photography and art card business by offering advice and guidance. He was the greatest finance guy a company could have. He asked how my little girl and my husband were doing. His last words to me were; “You just call me if you need anything else, okay TA?”

This afternoon, when I looked at all the emails awaiting me, I saw the heading that made my heart stop; “A Sad Passing” and noticed that the sender was his brother. I knew what I was about to read was going to be crushing.

As I read the email about how three weeks prior to Roger’s last breath, I could barely stand the sadness that came over me. He had opened his home to me when I moved from Vancouver, B.C. to Los Angeles to go back to college. He was the best room-mate a girl and her dog could ever have. Before that, we had a little joint venture years back. He was always interested in finding new business ventures. He was the greatest platonic friend a girl could have and God, am I going to miss him.

As I read and re-read this email of today, I try to believe that he is at peace now. He deserves that.

It is with great sadness that I regret to tell you of the passing of my dear brother, Roger Stout.

Roger passed away quietly and peacefully at the Hospice Home in Tampa, Florida on Thursday June 18th. It had only been three weeks earlier when he first reported symptoms of shortness of breath and general tiredness. After many tests it was confirmed that he had stage 4 small cell lung cancer, which had spread from his lungs to his liver to his brain and to his bones. The doctors said there were no treatment options.
Roger was a kind and generous man who never turned away anyone in need. He was my best friend and constant companion.

Enjoying the Day (with another new camera!)

It’s so beautiful out this morning. I am sitting outside with Sophia. We just took a couple of photos with my new Fuji camera that my husband and daughter gave to me for Mother’s Day. It was late coming because I took forever deciding which camera I wanted. Not that the two I have already aren’t enough! They all have their own purpose :-)

As I sit drinking my coffee, I am watching Sophia gaze up at the sky like she has never looked up before. It’s such a precious moment. I wonder how she sees what I see. Babies are so amazing.

Anyway, the camera I am shooting with is pretty decent considering that I am going from a Canon DSLR to a point and shoot. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who wants crisp and clear photos. The Ambience setting is a bit noisy when used indoors in low light, but I can deal with that. The macro feature is super handy, too.