rachelle lee photography

Well, Hello New Bloggity!

2011-11-02T15:51:00.000-07:00

Yep! It's true! I finally did it!

Come check out my new blog at:

www.RachelleLeePhotography.com/blog

:)

--r

Little Mister B. [Rachelle Lee. Babies]

2011-10-13T11:00:00.000-07:00

"If one feels the need of something grand, something infinite, something that makes one feel aware of God, one need not go far to find it. I think that I see something deeper, more infinite, more eternal than the ocean in the expression of the eyes of a little baby when it wakes in the morning and coos or laughs because it sees the sun shining on its cradle."
-- Vincent van Gogh

Happy Thursday.

:)

--r

Purge. Renew. Refresh. Please.

2011-09-30T10:50:00.000-07:00

Over the summer everything grew in intensity.

I'd been contemplating change for a few months, just tossing it around to see how it felt. Not really committing, just trying it on a little bit to see what happened inside of me. But not really making change. And nothing changed inside of me. I was full of stress, and dread, and pressure and I was tired. Not just regular tired, but weary tired.

But let me back up.

If you've been following my life, you know that my husband was working a case (he's a lawyer) that was taking up inhumane amounts of time. Not sleeping at night and working all weekend were pretty much weekly occurrences during those 5 months. Vacations were ruined (we're still not saying the "H" word), kids were melting down, and I was doing my level best to handle everything around here, so he wouldn't have to worry about things at home (this includes trying to fix bikes, toilets, climbing into the attic, and making weighty decisions on important matters). All while trying to be a good mom, active church member and run my business.

In the end, I cracked.

I realized that something had to change (no more just tossing the idea around) when I sat and cried at the thought of coming back from a hiatus at my parents' house. Back to this house with all of the stress and pressure that we'd been living under. I dreaded it. And my heart hurt. And I didn't want to return to life the way I had been living it.

I've spent the last month processing and purging my life in so many ways. Kind-of a digital hiatus if you will (which is pretty astounding when you realize that my whole business is digital). I've had to make some tough business decisions - and have cut out most of my fall sessions. I haven't picked up my camera in 4 weeks. I don't answer my phone. I only answer my emails every couple of days. I don't live on FB. *gasp*

And in return, I feel like I've gained freedom.

My life has slowed down and allowed me to focus on my kids and their well-being. I spend time with them after school, instead of hoping they don't destroy the house while I sit, holed up in my office, editing.

I have also really started to focus on food and what we, as a family, are eating (and not eating). This means I am spending more time in the kitchen, preparing wholesome breakfasts, homemade granola bars and as always, lunch and dinner from scratch. I also started canning this year. Jam. Pears. And this weekend will be applesauce. It is satisfying to see those jars all lined up and to know exactly what is and isn't in them.

I am spending more consistent time exercising. And really enjoy the satisfaction of doing it.

I am committing myself more fully to my faith, both through worship and study. It was through my faith that I felt the most comfort during these long months, and it has re-kindled a strength in me that I thought was lost.

At the moment, we have 2 desks and a frame in our garage waiting for us to refinish them. WE (hubby and I) are working on them together. There is great satisfaction in that.

And I still have my half-life project to finish. And I want to have more photography projects that are just for me. But right now, I need to choose the projects that speak to my soul and let me come away feeling renewed and refreshed.

I guess that is my greatest desire, to feel whole and refreshed again. And it is coming, slowly. So if you don't hear from me for awhile. Don't worry. I am doing better. And I am living fuller. And I am loving the things that I am doing.

:)

--r

ps. the best thing about getting up early to take sunrise pictures, is getting up early to take sunrise pictures.

Family. They will make you smile. [Rachelle Lee. Families.]

2011-07-01T12:38:00.000-07:00

So I was totally called to task the other day. We were at a BBQ with some friends and these guys - totally called me out - for not blogging their session!!!! And then, to top it all off, they decided I needed more than 1 song on my website. Can you believe it? Something about 5 pictures into your gallery, the song starts over and then you hear it about 5 bazillion times before you've made it through all of your photos . . .

And they made me laugh so hard, I almost peed my pants.

And now I've added one more song to my website. I'm still looking for more - but website worthy songs are hard to come by!

And I'm blogging their session.

So let me just say . . .

I LOVE THIS FAMILY. I love the way he looks at her. And I love the way the son looks to the father. I love the way they make me laugh (ok - that one's totally selfish). But I reaaaaalllly love the way they are together.

Like all three are best friends and have been since the beginning.

And then I discovered that ALL THREE OF THEM CAN DO THE ROBOT. And I fell in love with them even harder.

Happy 4th!

:)

--r

4 Quarters = 1 Whole

2011-06-08T08:34:00.000-07:00

May 2011

We are officially in what I lovingly call "Crap Month." This term was lovingly coined during the ~~days~~ years of law school. It's that period of time in between the high of starting something new, but before the half way point. It feels like it will never end. But, only two more weeks, and then we will be half way through this case. I say "we" as if I am on the case too - while I'm NOT, some days it sure feels as though our whole family has taken on the stress and extra workload of this case, and in a way, I guess we kind-of have.

So May - what is new?

After I wrote April's post, I realized that I forgot something reaaaaalllly important. Jordan was chosen as Peacebuilder of the month!!!! OK - I know this doesn't sound like much to most of you. But when she came and told me she'd been chosen, I almost cried. She's a 2nd grader at this school and has been pining to be peacebuilder since kindergarten. And not once, nope. NOT A SINGLE TIME until almost the very end of 2nd grade. And she's cried. And she's tried to be a good friend. She's worked at being the teacher's helper. Oh how she's tried. And then we'd watch as other kids got the award, year after year. I know she's not a perfect child, but certainly she deserved to be recognized too. And as I sat in the awards ceremony, I watched her look around for me, worried that I hadn't made it (she wanted to have her picture taken on the stage as she spoke in the microphone declaring that she was a kid of character) and I almost cried again because I knew (I reaaallllly knew) how much this meant to her.

Oh internet, she is a good girl. She just pushes me really hard, and that is hard. But she is a good girl. And she will be amazing.

As for Keith - he has had a busy month. He got braces!!! 2 years of metal. We are really excited to have his teeth straightened out. They never have been the same since he had that extra tooth that skewed his permanent teeth. Thank Goodness for modern dentistry! He has also received his Webelo and Arrow of Light. No little achievement there. And lastly, his baseball season has come to a close. No more sitting at freezing, cold games for me! He had a great season, learning to pitch, playing third base and having fun with his team.

And as I sit here listening to the birds, chirping away in my house, I realize that I HAVE to tell you about the birds. This needs to be recorded. We have a cat. A cat that we rescued from the wild when he was just a baby and we love him dearly, but he is still a cat from the wild. And lately, he's been bringing us presents. A dead bird brought up to me in my bedroom, a dead bat on the stairs. You just never know. But a few nights ago as we were getting ready for bed, he came in with a baby bird, still alive. And the next morning, one more. So we've been feeding and nursing and warming and loving these baby birds and hoping against hope that they will live and thrive. Crazy cat. Leave the birds in their nest! And to top it all off, we found a mouse a in our garage. Why go for the birds, when there is a perfectly good mouse that needs taking care of??? *sigh*

I am looking forward to summer (c'mon weather, cooperate!). It will be a different summer for us, with Daniel being so busy, but nonetheless, I am looking forward to long summer days without schedules and deadlines and stress.

Until next time.

:)

--r

Newness. [Rachelle Lee. Baby Photographer]

2011-06-06T10:24:00.000-07:00

Meet little Miss J.

There. Now isn't your day just a little bit better?

:)

--r

The JellyBean Album

2011-05-20T13:11:00.000-07:00

This album just came in the mail and I am in love. I love the size. I love the silky feel of the custom cover. And I love the paper. I don't have it up in my priceguide yet, so if this is something you're interested in, message me and I'll send you the details.

:)

--r

Whispers of Childhood. [Rachelle Lee. Kids]

2011-05-18T09:46:00.000-07:00

These images speak to my soul.

They make me long for my childhood so strong that my heart aches. The days in Nampa, when my sister and the neighborhood friends would catch water skippers in the creek, frogs in the window wells (and keep them in the garage), and caterpillars in the fields. The days were long and we had our imaginations and the world at our feet. We made tents out of blankets, forts out of dirt, and slides out of snow. We played carebears and GI Joes, restaraunt and dentist - not video games - but us, in the yard, running around. We slept outside at night, my sister and I on the trampoline. Sometimes we'd forget to turn off the sprinklers and would end up running inside in the middle of the night, our sleeping bags soaked.

We moved from there when I turned 12 and things were never quite the same. Life got more complicated and I got older. How I miss the smell of freshly cut grass in Nampa.

:)

--r

4 Quarters = 1 Whole

2011-05-05T08:17:00.000-07:00

April 2011

Oh April.

I've thought and I've thought about how I would write about April without sounding like a sniveling snob, and finally just decided to give you the honest to goodness lowdown. And move on.

April was our Hawaii trip. The trip I went on one snowboarding trip and one skiing trip for (oh how I despise the cold and snow). The trip I've been saving for, working for and living for. And we finally made it!

Well kind-of.

About four days into the trip, Daniel had to come home early to take care of a work emergency. The kids and I decided to stay, and live the Hawaii dream by ourselves. What a bummer of a dream. The kids were fighting. I was lonely, seriously, I don't think I was meant to be alone. It doesn't work out well for me. And it was stressful.

And we came home.

Daniel is still working crazy hours, the kids have been testing, I've been working and running to baseball games, and trying to be a scout leader and trying to keep our house running and trying to be a good mom.

But that's reality. Now onto what's really been happening.

Keith played his first baseball game. He was nervous and I was nervous for him. I tried to remind him that the most important part was for him to have fun and play his best. And you know what? He played really well! And over the next few games, he was one of the few that hit and scored consistently. And then they put him in as pitcher and I really starting sweating it. But he did so well. And the next game, he pitched the whole game and they won! His last two games have not been so great and I wonder if he really does have extraordinary skill, or if it was all just a little fleeting blip. I keep telling him to have fun and play his best, and I know that's the most important part, but we all know it's more fun when you play well.

Jordanisms: "Why does everyone think Hawaii is SO fun anyway?"
"My mom's not fun."

As much as I love this little girl, the barrage of abuse that sometimes comes out of her is exhausting. Read and laugh internet, this is my life! And you really don't get the full effect without hearing the inflections and seeing her lower jaw set in stubbornness and defiance.

Good riddance April. You tried my patience and resolve. You tested my drive and stamina. Ha. I am still standing.

May, please be kind.

:)

--r

Half-Life. [a personal project]

2011-04-13T09:53:00.000-07:00

A few ideas for homemade cleaners:
(from clean air [dot] org)

Toilet Bowl Cleaner:
Sprinkle baking soda in the toilet bowl and brush. Or, add white vinegar and let sit for a few minutes, then brush.

Window Cleaner:
Spray window with a mixture of water and vinegar. 3 tbs. vinegar to 1 qt. water.

Disinfectant:
Make a solution of 3 tbs. liquid soap, 2 cups water, and 20-30 drops of tea tree oil (which is a natural disinfectant).

Drain Cleaner:
To clear a clogged drain, pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain. Add at least a cup of vinegar. It will start to fizz. Cover the drain. Finish by pouring a mixture of boiling water and salt down the drain. You may have to repeat the process a few times.

:)

--r

MAKE it a good one.

2011-04-11T09:00:00.000-07:00

“Each morning when I open my eyes I say to myself: I, not events, have the power to make me happy or unhappy today. I can choose which it shall be. Yesterday is dead, tomorrow hasn’t arrived yet. I have just one day, today, and I’m going to be happy in it.”
~Groucho Marx

MAKE it a good one.
(whether it really is, or not)

:)

--r

In Between the Rains [Rachelle Lee. Kids]

2011-04-08T08:51:00.000-07:00

I think i mentioned it before, but in case you missed it: The rains of spring have made things a little challenging around here. A big thank-you to all of my moms and kids and seniors that have been so patient with all of the re-scheduling we had to do as we worked around the torrential down pours. Hopefully, this warm weather is here to stay. :)

This is one of my cute little friends that I met in between the rains:

:)

--r

Half-Life. [a personal project]

2011-04-06T09:00:00.000-07:00

Back to half-life. Admittedly, I'm falling behind on this project. I was hoping to have everything complete by April 22nd, but it seems that life has gotten in the way (isn't that the way things go?). And to make matters worse, my dad totally showed me up today by sending me the rest of his 26 images (I, on the other hand have a total of 6 completed images, count it: 6. boo me.)

I ran across this video with some interesting paper vs. plastic statistics. The music is really quite groovy, so you might want to watch with the sound turned OFF. ;) But the facts are quite interesting, and make me wonder, can I really make the change to packing all of my own bags everywhere? Maybe if my car had a special "bag storage space." Definitely something to think about.

:)

--r

Gilroy Senior Photographer {Rebecca: Class of 2011}

2011-04-04T09:33:00.000-07:00

Another beautiful senior up on the blog! Rebecca was so much fun to work with. Totally up for anything. And even had half the town of Gilroy watching her at one point (aaahhhh Gilroy, you always have a surprise in store for me). Love these.

Make-up was done by the fabulous Ingrid. You can see more of her work over here.

:)

--r

(to book your senior session, call or send me a note! i'd love to hear from you!)

Gilroy Senior Photographer {Angela: Class of 2011}

2011-04-01T09:00:00.000-07:00

Meet Angela! One of my super sweet, super nice seniors. Love how relaxed she looks in EVERY SINGLE photo. And she looks amazing because of it (no camera shyness here!).

:)

--r

The Cherry Orchard.

2011-03-30T09:00:00.000-07:00

In between the rains, I ran over to the cherry orchard to look for the perfect location for a group of minis that I had scheduled to take place there. The blossoms were so delicate and beautiful. And then the rains started up again. And it rained. And rained. AND RAINED. We had to cancel our minis. :( But hopefully the rains are slowing down now, so we can get on with our picture taking!

:)

--r

a little shoot. big personalities. [rachelle lee. kid's photographer]

2011-03-29T08:33:00.000-07:00

We had orginally planned to take these in the cherry orchard, and then the rains rained us out. But the day was so beautiful (the first in a long time), that we couldn't pass up the opportunity. So we found a spot that wasn't filled with puddles (well, there was one) and mud and had a fun morning. These two were so fun to work with and were just darling.

Happy Tuesday! (high 70's today!!! i love the warm weather! AND my blue skies are back. :D ).

:)

--r

4 Quarters + 1 Cat = 1 Whole

2011-03-23T11:34:00.000-07:00

So you know how they say, that when your family is complete (ie. you've had enough kids), you'll just know it? Like somewhere deep down inside, you'll feel this sense of completion and satisfaction? The funny thing is (and trust me when I say, I realize how ridiculous this sounds), I didn't get that feeling until after we got our cat. Somehow, in some strange way, he completed our family. I don't pretend to understand it, but I relish the feeling of wholeness each and every day. And it makes my heart burst when I see our kids draw our family with our cute little cat next to us.

I just wanted to record that, so I'll never forget.

March 2011

Somehow, I totally missed February. Actually, I know how. It's because I rarely take my camera to record us anymore. Sad isn't it? But over the last year I've had this great desire to live {IN} the moment rather than just capturing it as a spectator. So often times I find myself leaving the camera behind and just relishing the moments. I want to believe that my memory is strong enough to hold it all inside, the beauty and wonder and smells and laughter. But sadly, I know it's not. But I believe that the feelings and relationships that I am building by being {IN} the moment will last for a lifetime.

"Be here now. Be someplace else later. Is that so complicated?"
-David Bader

So, what have we been up to?

I have officially started taking pictures of HS Seniors (I had to put the HS there, because every time I talk about my "Senior Shoots" my husband asks me why I'm taking pictures of old people! lol!). I spent a lot of time in February coordinating, and cancelling due to rain, and coordinating and cancelling. But, we finally had a break in the weather and I was able to meet up with all of my senior reps. Needless to say, this constant rain is making my job more complicated than usual.

And, Little League has officially started. WHEW! It is keeping me on the run. With 2-3 practices/games a week, I feel like baseball consumes a big chunk of our lives right now. The great thing is, Keith is having fun (although at times he is loathe to admit it). And I love that he is outside playing so much! We have yet to have our first game due to rain cancellations, but I suspect they'll be starting anytime now.

Keith has also been busy earning money for an ipod touch (which just arrived yesterday!). He spent so much time and did so much work around the house, that I've almost forgotten what it means to do laundry (we only had 1 pink shirt incident!) and morning dishes (LOVE having the dishwasher unloaded before the kids leave for school!).

Jordan had a birthday in February and turned 8. She is still my biggest handful. Her emotions run very deep. So when something goes her way, she is SO happy that the whole house can't help but smile. But when things don't go her way (ie. she can't find school pants or you ask her to pick up her things), she turns to tears almost immediately. She makes me laugh the hardest, but she tries my patience the hardest too. Funny little paradox that she is.

We were so excited in March to have Jordan's baptism. I took a risk a few months before baptism, because she is my child who pushes the limits, and told her that being baptized was completely her choice. That she could choose not to be baptized and that would be just fine. We would still love her and support her. And she contemplated it, what it would mean to not be baptized and what it would mean to be baptized. And in the end, she decided that yes, she wanted to be baptized. So we went forward with plans. Both sets of grandparents came out, and two of Daniel's siblings and their families were here. It was a beautiful day and we felt so grateful for all of the love and friendship shown to us on that day.

I had Jordan draw a picture of our family to put on the thank you cards that we put together and this is what she came up with. I just love it.

Until next time.

:)

--r

St. Mary's Auction Winner!

2011-03-14T10:04:00.000-07:00

With the auctions fast aproaching, I thought it was the perfect time to showcase the winner from last year's St. Mary's auction! These two girls were so sweet. They both go to St. Mary's and their favorite teacher? Their mom. How cool is that?

:)

--r

Play. [Rachelle Lee. Photographing Kids]

2011-03-10T09:37:00.000-08:00

Once in awhile, I have a little friend who is a little camera shy. And for each one, we have to figure out what will work best for them. Sometimes I have to try and be invisible, not making eye contact or not speaking to them, so they can kind-of forget that I'm even there. Sometimes I have to get down on their level and play with them and talk with them about things that they like. And sometimes, I just sit off to the side and ask mom or dad (or in this case, grandma) to play or sing or talk with them. And I stand off to the side or behind and take the pictures of their expressions as they interact with someone they know and love. (One dad told the most amazing princess story, and the look in his daughter's eyes brought tears to my eyes. She loves her daddy, it was written all over face.) This little girl played games with her grandma, they threw seeds and flowers and ran around and laughed and had so much fun. It made my job a breeze and I just love her precious little face. Can you tell she loves her grandma?

:)

--r

Little Man [rachelle lee. photographing kids]

2011-03-08T09:33:00.000-08:00

You might recognize this little man from these photos over here. I took their family photos over the holidays, but his mom wanted to capture him as he turned 1. He is so cute with his chubby little cheeks.

:)

--r

brother and sister [rachelle lee. photographing beautiful kids]

2011-03-07T09:17:00.000-08:00

It's funny. It seems that lately whenever I've been photographing siblings and ask them if they are best friends, they look at me like I'm crazy and then I torture them by making them sit next to each other and pretend that they LIKE it. :) And then I spend the next 20 minutes or so trying to convince them that they need to like each other, because family is all we've got. And I try and tell them that one of these days, they're going to realize that they really do like and appreciate each other.

I guess it comes from my own experience. I only had 1 sister. And sure, we had our share of fighting. But I don't really remember it. I remember that throughout high school, when I really needed it, she was my best friend. And I guess part of me hopes that these beautiful kids (and even my own for that matter!) will have that same cheering section behind them. It's a conversation that I'm sure my kids are tired of, but when I hear them laughing (SO HARD) in the car, or when I see him encourage her, or when I see her take a breath and do something nice for him, I think maybe they'll make it there afterall.

:)

--r

On my desk. [rachelle. lee.]

2011-03-03T13:34:00.001-08:00

between the rains we were able to sneak in a few photos (and postpone a few). here is one of my favorites.

:)

--r

Half-Life {a personal project}

2011-02-22T11:51:00.000-08:00

Another installment from my favorite project. I spent some time last week sorting through my pile of collected "junk" and discovered this little thing. It wasn't tagged and I'm not even sure where it came from, which I thought was totally fitting. So I labeled it with the current date and location and added it to the pile. I love the quirkiness of the shape.

Every year, nearly 900,000,000 trees are cut down to provide raw materials for American paper and pulp mills.
~cleanair.org

So there you have it. Go plant a tree!

:)

--r

Gilroy Senior Photographer {Niu Class of 2011}

2011-02-17T12:48:00.000-08:00

Niu and I met up on a gorgeous evening, before all these crazy rains blew in. She goes to the local high school here (Gilroy High) and is graduating this year. She totally worked it. She is gorgeous, inside and out and I had so much fun working with her.

Congratulations Niu!!! I can't wait to see which college you decide on . . .

:)

--r

Part II: My Girl

2011-02-10T13:51:00.000-08:00

OK - so I just couldn't stand to leave it at a hurried 20min. photoshoot. We (errrr . . . I) needed more pictures. But hey, don't judge - I saw you last week at that assembly snapping away photos of your kids! ;)

We headed up to this beautiful barn on such a gorgeous morning and spent a good hour just laughing and having fun together. My goal was to have enough photos to make a book. I think I (errrrr . . . we) did it. :)

:)

--r

Hey you! Stop growing up!

2011-02-08T11:40:00.000-08:00

My little girl turned 8 this weekend! We keep telling her she needs to stop growing. Just slow down! But those birthdays just keep coming. And she keeps growing and changing. We had a spare 20 min. last week, so we raced over to this field to take some pictures just after the sun had set. Just love this little girl.

:)

--r

4 Quarters = 1 Whole

2011-02-01T14:27:00.000-08:00

January 2011

(note: Somewhere in the transition from hobbyist photographer to professional, i stopped journaling/scrapbooking. And I regret that I am missing those stories and thoughts and feelings. So this is one of my New Year's Resolutions. A family post, to catch up on what's going on in our lives. I realize that this might not be interesting to most everyone out there. But I want to capture this for me.)

(This photo was taken by my dear friend Carolina with Sweet Portraits. She braved the rain and had us laughing the whole time. :) )

January. Easy Come. Easy Go.

I love a new year and a fresh start. Good-bye 2010. You were hard and fun and exhausting and exciting.

By the time January arrived, we were exhausted from the rush of the holidays. And the fresh breath that January brought was so welcomed.

Jordan. My dear, sweet, little girl. She has a bit of a strong personality. She makes her decisions quickly and doesn't really know how to take "no" for an answer. She just came that way. There are days where I am so proud and so frustrated with her all within the same 5 minutes. This month, she was declared officially grounded, and had to earn back her privilege of playing with friends each day. I know that doesn't sound like much to the ordinary person, but around here, that is big news. She was devastated. But it greatly improved her behavior around the house and we were grateful for a little more cooperation. Right now, we are busy preparing for Jordan's 8th birthday. Birthdays are very special to her, and I always hold my breath through her birthday season because her expectations are SO high. Hopefully, we have planned well enough that nothing will be forgotten and all will happen just as she is hoping it will.

Keith is caught in that awkward stage between child and teenager. One minute he is totally responsible, navigating the world with maturity and ease and the next minute he is in the middle of a toddler tantrum. He has been desperate to earn money, I think he is saving up for an ipod touch. And I have admit, I have enjoyed having a little more help around the house. Wanting so badly to earn money, he volunteered to wash the car and then promptly fell off the hood onto his wrist (why was he on the hood????? well, he wasn't tall enough to reach the windshield from the ground of course!). And so we were off to the ER for x-rays, luckily it was only a sprain. This month was also the pinewood derby. This was Keith's third year in the race, the last 2 years he has won first place. This year, he didn't. And while it was hard at first, I think it was a really good experience for him to go through the process without winning (I think my hubby actually chose not to sand the axles this time, in the hopes that someone else would win this year).

As for me, this month I finally got to start taking pictures for my half-life project. I love having a project that is just for me. The beginning of last year found me in a bit of a funk that lasted for quite some time. But having a project of my own has seemed to start my year in a great new direction.

It seems to me, that it doesn't really matter the size of your family, we all seem to find a way to book every 2nd and everyone is busy. That is where we find ourselves, day after day. BUSY. And so the question that begs to be answered is, are we really happy being that busy? I don't know. I know we would love a slower pace of life, but we choose the busy because it promises a brighter future. So we close our eyes and hold on tight and hope that we are enjoying the here and now enough, while it goes screeching by.

:)

--r

the pump. [Rachelle Lee. Project Half-Life]

2011-01-28T08:53:00.000-08:00

Completely discarded. Chewed on. Full of sand.

I can still picture my friend's face when we turned the corner and the headlights just barely caught site of this black pump on the side of the road. She ran back to grab it, and I knew it was a keeper when I saw the bite marks along the heel. It reminds me that I am so blessed to be surrounded by people who believe in me and support my crazy ideas. :) I love when they get as excited about something as I do.

Here are a few trash stats from the clean air council:

(this list was compiled in 2006)

1. Only about one-tenth of all solid garbage in the United States gets recycled.
2. Every year we fill enough garbage trucks to form a line that would stretch from the earth, halfway to the moon.
3. Americans throw away 2.5 million plastic bottles every hour.
4. Only two manmade structures on Earth are large enough to be seen from outer space: the Great wall of China and the Fresh Kills landfill.

I have to admit, making lifestyle changes to protect the earth isn't always easy for me. The time it takes to wash the old soup cans and rinse the milk jug (don't even get me started on the sticky peanut butter jar!) for recycling is sometimes daunting when it's 9pm and all you want to do is sit down after a long day. But this project has inspired me to continue to do it, even on the days when I would rather just throw them in the trash can. I have also switched to using aluminum water bottles for most of the time, which means washing those every night and refilling them in the morning rush.

In the end, we will all make a difference in our own little corner of the earth, the question we face is: what kind of difference will it be?

:)

--r

Family. [Rachelle Lee. South Bay Family Photographer.]

2011-01-26T10:37:00.000-08:00

We met up on a beautiful evening. They brought their love and energy. My hills have turned green again, and I love photographing in them when they are green. They wanted to capture this moment - 10 days after this shoot, their son left for a two year mission. He will be missed. But they are proud of him and the choices he is making.

After this shoot, I kept marveling at how gracious they all were. They carried my chairs all over these hills, and they held the chairs in place while I precariously balanced as I always do. And they laughed (we laughed the whole time!). And they continuously thanked me, with smiles and love. And I walked away feeling full.

:)

--r

Announcement: Looking for 2011 Seniors!!!

2011-01-24T09:00:00.000-08:00

2011 Senior Rep Search

I'm looking for confident and excited high school seniors to represent my first ever Senior Rep campaign! If you are currently a high school senior or know a high school senior who might like to be a senior rep, here’s what you need to know:

If accepted, you will be representing Rachelle Lee Photography and telling your friends about our Senior Sessions. Be sure to let your Junior friends know also, so they will have a chance to apply for the 2012 program!

In order to be a Senior Rep, you must:
1. Have great style, lots of personality and enjoy being in front of the camera
2. Be a current high school senior graduating in 2011
3. Live in and attend school in one of the following towns: Morgan Hill, Gilroy, Hollister
4. Be available on February 19th for the photoshoot
5. Agree to tell your friends and classmates about Rachelle Lee Photography and share your senior portraits with them.
6. Be willing to be tagged in and share your photos on your Facebook page.
7. Have your parents or legal guardians sign a model release form allowing us to use your images for advertising purposes.

As part of our senior rep program, you will receive the following:
1. Free 30 min photo session
2. 50 personalized referral cards to give to friends and classmates with your name, your photo and our business information.
3. 3-5 facebook images
4. 20-25 digital images in full resolution on CD with a copyright release for personal use.

To apply for our senior rep program please fill out this form.

(edited: this form is now closed)

Can't wait to hear from you!

--r

On my desk. [Rachelle Lee. Family]

2011-01-20T16:36:00.000-08:00

Love. Love. Love. this family. More to come.

:)

--r

Half-Life [Rachelle Lee. a personal project]

2011-01-13T09:00:00.000-08:00

Project Half-Life.

I guess it was a great confluence of events. The quiet whispers of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, and then the oil spill, the three couches abandoned on the side of the road, and then the day we went to the resevoir, only to find that litter was strewn everywhere. We cleaned up a little. But it made me wonder, how long does it take for that plastic bottle to break down (450 years!!!!)? And how bad is it really (in 1960, each American produced about 2.7 pounds of garbage per day. By 2003, this amount had stabilized at 4.5 pounds a person each day)?

And so Project Half-Life was born.

A project born from the love and reverence for nature.

A collaborative effort between me and my dad

The Rules: 1. objects must be inanimate 2. objects must have been or will be discarded 3. objects must fit inside the 24" soft light box 4. photos must be taken on a black background 5. objects must be fully included in the image so as to include black border around the object 6. you can't choose the same object twice 7. images must be in black and white 8. information gathered for each object must include the city and state where object was gathered. date of collection should also be noted 9. 52 images will be included in the series - we will each be responsible for 26

So excited to finally be in the "picture taking" stage of this project. Our goal is to have all 52 images ready for earth day. We hope you'll join us and pick up a few things as you make your way around our beautiful earth.

:)

--r

Macro. [Rachelle Lee. The Personal Files]

2011-01-12T08:30:00.000-08:00

Finally had a chance to take the macro out before one of my sessions this weekend. It's been gorgeous macro weather and now I'm just waiting for a few of the spring buds to start sprouting.

:)

--r

Havin' Fun [Rachelle Lee. Families]

2011-01-05T11:41:00.000-08:00

Just loved photographing this family a few weeks back. They came with such energy and such love. The girlies were my instant friends.

One. And then the other.

We couldn't quite get our jumps coordinated for this one. I love the way it turned out.

And then the girls wanted to show me their moves . . .

All three, looking so precious.

Oldest. Sweet and serene. She's getting to that age, where she knows she's being photographed.

Middle Child. A total crack up. So carefree and fun.

Baby. Does it get any cuter than this? Look at those lucious cheeks!

Mom and Dad. You guys make beautiful kids. And hey, you're not so bad lookin' yourselves! Thanks for such a fun day!

:)

--r

Milton, Santa's Favorite Elf - Advent Activities

2011-01-04T08:07:00.000-08:00

Shortly after Thanksgiving, I was totally inspired by this post and decided that it would be really fun to have our own little elf this Christmas.

I loved the idea of giving the kids something to look forward each day. And looked forward to the excitement that it would create in our house. Our elf was named Milton, and signed his name in glitter with every note. He told the kids a little bit about himself and even drew a picture of him and santa together (because the cold weather broke his camera).

What I didn't expect, was the amount of work it would create, at an already busy time. I had assumed that I could write all of the notes ahead of time, and then simply lay them out each night. But it didn't work that way. The kids ended up leaving notes for Milton, and Milton responded each night.

In fact, one day, one of the toys broke and the kids thought it would be a great idea to give it to Milton and ask him to take it back to the workshop to get it fixed! (uhhhhh - really?) So, Milton took the toy, spent some considerable time in the workshop and brought it back all fixed, only to have it break again within minutes. So the kids left it with Milton again, who dug around the workshop and found something suitable to leave under the tree (wrapped in paper and of course, signed in glitter).

Needless say, I spent many nights up past everyone else, facilitating this fun little adventure of ours. And I have to say, at times I regretting starting the whole thing. I was so tired (do you know how long it takes glue and glitter to dry at midnight???). But on Christmas morning, Jordan gave me a little present, all hand made. A little book that she drew and had a picture of her holding the present from Milton, and at the top it said: "At Christmas everything is fun and ixsiting!" And at that moment, all of the late nights had totally been worth it.

Over those weeks, I saved everything Milton sent and the notes from the kids and the little christmas story, and have put them all in a special box to remind us of the fun we had this Christmas.

How it worked:

I started off with a letter from Milton, explaining that they had been very good, and so he was rewarding them by coming each night to give them something to do as they counted down the days until Christmas.

Then, I made a list of all the things that that we could do/make and then coordinated it with my calendar to make sure I could actually make Milton's demands happen.

Here's what I put on my list:

1. Make snowflakes and hang them in the windows (santa likes snow a lot)
2. Make cookies together and share them with a friend
3. Go to Starbucks for hot chocolate
4. Go look at Christmas lights
5. Read this Christmas message, snuggled up with your family
6. Go feed the white reindeer (we have some just up the hill from us)
7. Take a family picture for me to remember you by
8. Have dinner by candlelight (the kids LOVED this)
9. Find someone in need and give this money to them (they were given a $5 bill)
10. Family game night (Milton gave them the game of Life)
11. Snowman Poop (powdered donut holes) - Milton was on snowman duty the night before, picking up after all the snowmen, so he left us snowman poop because he heard people like to eat it!
12. Read the christmas story
13. Wrap your presents you lazy people

On my desk. [rachelle lee. families]

2011-01-03T08:03:00.000-08:00

quiet. [rachelle lee. the personal files]

2010-12-30T09:59:00.000-08:00

For all of the kids that have been coming in and out of my house, the house still feels quiet. Maybe it's because the last couple of months have been so busy and now, it has all come to a screeching halt. The holiday rush is over. Christmas has past. The rain has stopped. The company has gone. So I sit. And there are things that I should be doing, but the deadlines are off in the distance and the laundry doesn't have to be done today and the house is relatively clean. And it seems quiet and strange. Strange that after such a crazy hectic time, it all ends with this. The kids are playing and I sit.

I spent 2 hours yesterday dreaming up ideas for a new logo.

And today?

Well, I think I might just go get a pedicure.

The bookeeping can wait until tomorrow.

:)

--r

Goodness. [Rachelle Lee. The Personal Files]

2010-12-23T08:43:00.000-08:00

Aaaahhhh. The Christmas rush. We are almost through it.

I thought about making a huge list of all the things I've accomplished in the last few weeks, but I'm sure you've all been busy checking things off your own lists. I have a love/hate relationship with this season. I always have the goal of spending November being "thankful." I don't even want to think of getting ready for Christmas in November because it ruins my month of truly focusing on being grateful. And then December comes, and I haven't prepared a thing. And the whirlwind starts. Maybe next year I will extend my "thankful season" to include Christmas.

Yesterday I had the opportunity to visit the SF art museum to see this collection of works. I have been waiting for this for months. One of Van Gogh's Starry Night paintings was on display and was by far the most amazing painting in the whole collection (even next to a Monet, a Degas and a Rembrandt). And I was struck by the irony of it all. Van Gogh, someone who is adored and his workes are reveared by millions, suffered from depression and insecurities regarding his artwork. And I wondered how often each and every one of us does the same thing?

How often do we criticize ourselves, refusing to see the good that we do. Refusing to see our unique strengths, instead, focusing on the flaws and insecurities. And I wonder what is the correct balance? We have to see our flaws in order to improve, but at the same time, we need to rejoice in our inherent greatness.

A few weeks ago, I started a little project inspired by this post over here. Milton, the elf, has been leaving a note/activity for the kids each night. In my first note, I told the kids they had been very good so he was going to help them count down the days until Christmas. Upon reading that, my son snickered, and and said, "yea, right." And I felt tears forming in my eyes. Why does he not see how good he is? That night I spent a precious few moments with him, reminding that he is a good kid. Regardless of the little things that go wrong throughout the day, he is a good kid.

Remind those you love of the goodness that they are. More importantly, remind yourself.

Merry Christmas.

:)

--r

Being. [Rachelle Lee. The Personal Files]

2010-11-19T10:19:00.000-08:00

Have you ever felt that you were meant to be more than just a _______________ (fill in the blank)?

I have this feeling ALL the time. Like I'm meant to do more than what I'm doing. Like I'm supposed to be something more than I am. Like my soul is aching to do/be something that I'm not doing in my life already. And the feeling comes back over and over. Like it doesn't want me to forget. The only problem is, I don't know what that is. But the nagging continues. I am supposed to do/be something amazing. So world, I am officially saying it. Let's do it. I am ready for an adventure. Let's do something amazing.

(If you have any ideas, can you please call me?)

:)

--r

One of My Favorite Families. [Rachelle Lee]

2010-11-17T11:11:00.000-08:00

I've been taking their family photos for years now. And Miss W. is one of my favorite people in part, because she cheered me on, back when I was just getting started.

I love their smiles. And I love their smirks. Most of all, I love photographing this family because they are so great together - and it's fun to be there, when everyone loves being together.

Most of these (except for the AWESOME red barn), were taken at one of my *new* favorite locations - the abandoned house. The lighting was so beautiful as we were dodging the rain and getting our feet muddy. It made me happy to be out and it's days like these that make me love my job.

:)

--r

Ducks in a Row. [Rachelle Lee. Photographing Families]

2010-11-05T10:37:00.000-07:00

(An article for Miss M.)

I met this family in one of my favorite little towns, on a cloudy evening. In fact, we almost rescheduled due to the reports of rain. But we persisted, and were blessed with gorgeous moody clouds that held their rain for us the whole evening.

I love the energy of this family - and the way they interact so easily. Makes you smile just looking at them.

And I just loved Miss M. who was LOVING the camera (I love it!) and at the very end asked "can you put these up on the computer and write and article about us?"

Well, yes. Yes I can. :)

Have a great weekend!

:)

--r

Happiness. [Rachelle Lee. Photographing Families]

2010-10-21T10:41:00.000-07:00

Over the last few months I've been watching this documentary. I was interested to see their perspective on life, and on how we can each make it better. To sum it all up [WARNING THIS IS A SPOILER!], they said that the secret to happiness is in having good relationships with other people. It really doesn't matter how much money you make, if you're married or not, if you have kids or not, or if you're old or young. All different people, in different circumstances can find happiness by having good, healthy relationships with other people.

I love when I can capture these amazing relationships with the camera. I love when he looks at her, with the softness that belongs only to those that have been there. And I love the sheepish look when the kids are crazy. And I love, LOVE, love when they are all in it together.

And I think it's so neat, when my clients put those photos up in their homes to remind themselves of the amazing people in their lives. After all, who doesn't want to be reminded of the things in life that bring happiness (I have my own "happy" wall in my kitchen (full of pictures of all of us together), that makes me smile everytime I look at it. And my kids love looking at it too.)?

I met up with this family last week. This is the third time I've taken pictures with them - they are such a sweet family. I just love working with them. You can tell that they are a family that enjoys being together and works hard to make everyone feel a part. I guess that's the funny thing about good relationships - it takes work to keep them good (like committing 30 min. every night to help with push-ups for fitness tests and kick-overs for gymnastics, reading stories at night, putting Halloween decorations up at 8pm because it's the only time you can find in your schedule, etc.). But I guess that's the most rewarding kind of work of all.

Happy Thursday Everyone.

Make it a good one, and give a hug to those you love.

:)

--r

On my desk. [Rachelle Lee. Photographing Families]

2010-10-20T11:46:00.000-07:00

:)

--r

Another Cute Family on the Bloggity.

2010-10-19T11:01:00.001-07:00

Just loved meeting this cute little family.

He found me by searching the internet (thank you internet).

I just love the way they look at their little girl.

And I love the way they carry themselves so easily - it totally comes across in the images.

Happy Tuesday!

:)

--r

New Dates for Mango Street Minis!

2010-10-14T11:00:00.000-07:00

Announcing New Dates for Mango Street Minis!
Mini Sessions are shorter than my regular sessions and thus, are offered at a much lower cost.

We have two new dates for you. Thursday, October 21st and Friday, October 22nd. The sessions will be scheduled every half hour between 9:30am and 11:30am and will include 20-25 minutes of picture taking around Mango Street Kids located at 7579 Monterey Street in Gilroy.

My style is very fun and relaxed and uses only natural light. You should expect to see 8-10 amazing images in an online gallery for your ordering convenience.

And I'm so excited to announce that:
Each session will include a free set of 50 play date cards! Personalized just for you, and perfect for sharing with new friends. You can see one of them here.

The cost of a mini session is $100* for one child and is perfect for children ages 3 months and up! Additional siblings may be added to your session for $25 each, with a limit of 3 children total per session.

If you'd like to sign-up, send me a note (please include child's name and age and a phone number where you can be reached on the day of the shoot) or give Amber a call over at Mango (408.842.1722) and we'll get you on the list!

*payment is due at the time of your session and is payable by check or cash. If you'd prefer to pay via PayPal, let me know at least one week in advance of your session and I will send you an invoice.

:)

--r

Studio News.

2010-10-07T10:30:00.000-07:00

With so much going on over here, I wanted to let you in on things before I forget to tell you.

My holiday schedule is filling up quickly. I will only be booking one more family session between now and November 15th. The studio will be closed for sessions between November 15th and the end of January.

I do still have openings for mini-sessions (will properly announce these in a few days, but for those of you that read the small print, you got it sooner :0 ). These will be happening on the mornings of October 21st and 22nd in the back alley behind Mango Street Kids. The cost is $100 for 1 child and includes 20-25 min. of picture taking with 8-10 images in an online gallery for you to choose from. You will receive 50 free play date cards with your print order. If you're interested, shoot me an email or give Amber a call over at Mango Street Kids.

Holiday orders are due by November 15th. This will ensure that we have time to order and get them back to you in time.

Also - I've meaning to add a few new products to my price list, but just haven't had the time. So - I thought I would put them here, and hopefully in the 2 weeks I'll be able to get them in the price guide officially:

Play date cards will be sold at a discounted rate through the end of the year. $40 for a set of 50.

And lastly, I've had a lot of people ask about digital files. And while I do offer them through the incentives (see my price guide), I wanted to do better. So through the end of the year, you can order a CD (containing all full resolution files with copyright release) from your session for $325. CDs for the mini-sessions will be priced a little lower at $235.

Happy Thursday Everyone! Make it a good one!

--r

wallpaper grunge freebie [Rachelle Lee. the photoshop files]

2010-10-01T10:00:00.000-07:00

*i hope that my photoshop files are helpful to some of you. in no way do i consider myself an expert in photoshop (can we say, never ending program to learn?). i just thought it would be fun to share some of the things that i'm learning in the hope that they can help some of you too!

I love using textures when editing a photo, but I also love using textures to create cards and books. The problem is, most texture files come in color and when I'm designing a book or a card, I want the colors to blend seamlessly.

Enter: the texture brush.

By creating a brush from your favorite textures, you can use them in whatever color you'd like and even change the opacity or layer style to complete the look. I also really like to use these as erasers over text or other elements to create a really weathered look.

This brush was created from one of favorite textures that almost looks like wallpaper.

And here's an example of a play date card I made using this grungy brush.

(these play date cards will be making their way into my price guide very soon!).

You may not be able to see the brush marks right away (that's the point), but look closely and you'll see that they're just a tad darker than the rest of the card. And if you really can't see them, well, that's probably because I used a few different textures to achieve this look. :)

Happy Photoshopping!

:)

--r

The Beach. [Rachelle Lee. Photographing Families]

2010-09-30T09:21:00.000-07:00

this session almost didn't happen. when I arrived at the beach, it was so foggy that you could feel it in the air. i knew our time would be cut short, because we would run out of light early. they were running late. and then as soon as they arrived, one of their boys slammed his finger in the door. he was a trooper though. and the clouds and fog broke and gave us just a little bit more time. and we got these.

i just loooove the black and whites. Funny thing is, not very many people order the black and whites. i keep telling myself i should just stop editing them, and edit everything just in color. but i can't help it. i love the way they look.

happy thursday.

:)

--r

Freedom. [Rachelle Lee. the personal files]

2010-09-28T11:25:00.001-07:00

This Sunday, we took the opportunity of a few extra hours to visit our secret refuge. And we napped and we played and we laughed 'till we almost cried.

My favorite quote from the day:

"suddenly, i feel the weird sensation of freedom."
--k.b.

So grateful for my sweet little family. So grateful for their laughter and their smiles. And so grateful for our little secret that almost made me pee my pants! (sorry internet, i made a promise not to divulge this one!)

Happy Tuesday!

:)

--r

Play Date Cards! [Rachelle Lee.]

2010-09-24T13:00:00.000-07:00

I've been busy working away at designing a new product just for moms. These play date cards are the perfect way to share your number with new friends (takes away the hassle of pulling out a pen and paper at a perfectly good play date!). Fully customizable, only the information that want on the cards will be printed. You can include your name, your child's name, phone number, email . . . it's up to you.

I just got my samples in yesterday, and printed on 100% recycled paper, they are not only earth friendly, but they look amazing. Prices will be available in my online price guide soon!

:)

--r

X Y . [Rachelle Lee. modeling portfolios]

2010-09-23T10:28:00.000-07:00

Well, so far it's been a crazy busy, crazy fun week. I spent the last few days photographing a good friend of mine to get his modeling portfolio together. The thing is, he needed the prints by today, and we started on Monday evening. We worked like crazy in falling light on Monday, and again on Tuesday. Sometimes even using 6400 iso - crazy grainy. (used this software to remove the grain. awesome. don't know how I've lived without it for so long!)

I took him to one of my most favorite locations, which if you've ever been around my little downtown at dusk, you know it's not the safest place to be! But with muscles around, I wasn't worried (sometimes I just wish I was guy so I wouldn't have to worry about stuff like that!) We had to tidy up the place first (I guess some other people think it's a pretty cool location too . . . i just wished they kept it a little cleaner . . . ). And the lighting was gorgeous. And then it got dark and we were back to the 6400 iso - jumping on the railroad tracks. I feel like I've had a weeks worth of adventure all slapped into a quick 2 hours!

To my dear friend, I had so much fun. Thanks so much for letting be a part of this. Can't wait to hear about your adventures this weekend!

**If you're interested in putting a modeling portfolio together, give me a call! I'd love to work with you!**

:)

--r

photo plate frame freebie. [Rachelle Lee. the photoshop files]

2010-09-16T11:01:00.000-07:00

Honestly, I don't really even know if "photo plate frame" is actually a real term. Maybe that's why I couldn't find anything when I was searching for something like this! :) I've been looking for a frame like this, that I can use for the book prints in our Half-Life project (you can learn a little more about that over here). And after a little frustration, I thought - hey, it can't be that hard to make, right? So I gave it a try. And I was pretty proud of it, until I stepped back into the real world and realized that it was really quite awful. So, back to searching.

And then I ran across this website: Zen Textures

And he had the most amazing "photo plate frames!" ('cause that's totally what I'm going to call them from now on!) You should go check them out - right now.

Unfortunately, they were a little dark and dirty for my purposes, so I chose one and cleaned it up and lightened it a little bit.

AND - I did a little research as to how to share it with you - I think I have it working right . . . (hopefully Mr. Zen won't mind . . . I would have just sent you over to his site, but it really did need some dusting and such before sharing it with you) - and if you have a chance, you really should take a look at the textures and wonderfulness he has over there)

To download the frame for yourself - just click here (you'll need to create a clipping mask to use it the way you see it here).

Happy Friday!

:)

--r

. . . [rachelle lee.]

2010-09-15T10:37:00.000-07:00

"The journey between what you once were and who you are now becoming is where the dance of life really takes place."
--Barbara De Angelis

:)

--r

boots without spurs. [rachelle lee. the personal files]

2010-09-08T10:46:00.001-07:00

I was cleaning out my closet the other day and ran into these. I almost threw them out, but I just couldn't make myself do it.

I still remember the day I bought them. It was almost like a dare - not the "I dare you to buy boots . . ." kind of dare - but rather the "I dare you to look at me in these boots and still want to be my friend" kind of dare.

It was a time in my life when I was far from home, and miserable. I was surrounded by people, but utterly lost and alone. Every day I felt judged. And I was exhausted of trying to fit in (if you know me, you know I don't do that "fit in" stuff). And so I gave up the game. I bought some boots and donned my crazy patchwork jeans and said "be my friend, I dare you. I dare you to look past my crazy boots, ugly jeans, skinny legs, blond hair and blue eyes and find out who I really am."

Needless to say, not very many people took me up on that dare. That year still stands as one of the hardest of my life, and I guess those boots are kind-of my trophy. My reminder that I made it through, when no one was standing by me, but those who were farthest from me.

--r

2010 holiday cards.

2010-09-07T15:51:00.000-07:00

Really and Truly. [Rachelle Lee. The Personal Files]

2010-09-02T21:50:00.000-07:00

It seems to me that true friendship happens when all the chips are down and they see the really true you - your most vulnerable and raw self - and still have the courage to say, "I am still your friend." (OK - maybe they don't actually say it, but you know they must be thinking it, because somehow they are still around a day or two later - right?)

And really true friends totally understand when you explain that you've found a new treasure (like, ummmm . . . a really awesome, really old yellow chair) that needs to be taken to a field for pictures. And they laugh and say, yes, Bert is really awesome even though, in their head, they're probably thinking, "that must be the oldest, ugliest chair in Gilroy!"

And really true friends get up at 6am on Saturday morning to take Awesome Bert out for his first photoshoot.

Thanks to my 2 really true friends who made this morning possible. And no thanks to the grumpy farmer who shooed us out of her old empty field of weeds (you did not make this possible). But thanks to my dear friend, who owns THIS property and let us use it after we got shooed out of the field. I LOVE this location.

:)

--r

a quiet today. [rachelle lee. the personal files]

2010-08-18T11:43:00.000-07:00

Today is the day they started school again, and I welcome the quiet of the house. My kids are in the phase where they can't be in the same room for more than 5 minutes before they start fighting, and I will be glad when it passes.

I spent my summer trying to say "yes." Yes to play dates, sleepovers, kitchen experiments, requests for big breakfasts, a bazillion kids in the house, etc. I'd like to think that I was successful, but I have found that I am much more comfortable in my realm of limits. I'm not sure that saying "yes" will ever be comfortable for me, but maybe as I stretch, what was once uncomfortable will become comfortable.

So today I dropped them off; they were both a bit trepidacious. Seems like both schools had the same idea - separate those kids from all of their friends! Maybe they heard about the fighting. :)

So here I sit. I have suitcases and laundry to put away. Pictures from the summer to edit. And my cat, snuggling me while I type. I guess it's time to shut this thing down and get some real work done.

:)

--r

Another Cute Family.

2010-07-23T11:59:00.000-07:00

Thanks to preparations for the garlic festival, we had to switch our location at the last minute. Luckily, everyone was flexible (even the kids!). We ended up over at the local college and had a fun morning. Such a beautiful family!

:)

--r

Me n' Bert

2010-07-20T12:55:00.000-07:00

Bert is my nickname for the old yellow chair that now sits in my garage waiting for the opportunity to be taken on a photoshoot. I found him at the local thrift shop after months of looking. As soon as I saw him, I knew he should come home with me, and when I found out he was half price? Well . . . the rest is history.

We took Bert out earlier this week for a quick photoshoot. I had my trusty side-kick (aka - hubby) man the camera and away we went. I'll post more from this little adventure later.

For now, it's just me n' bert.

:)

--r

THINK WITH YOUR BRAIN! [rachelle lee. :) ]

2010-07-16T11:29:00.000-07:00

I just had to share a little note I received from the mom of one of my new little friends. It makes me giggle everytime I think of it.

Maya: Mom, I miss my friend Rachelle
Me: Rachelle who?
Maya: MOM! MY FRIEND RACHELLE!
Me: Rachelle my cousin? Or is there a new Rachelle at school?
Maya: MOM! YOU HAVE TO THINK WITH YOUR BRAIN! MY FRIEND RACHELLE WHO LOOKS LIKE A PRINCESS AND TAKES MY PICTURE! I LOVE HER AND I MISS HER SO MUCH!

Have a great weekend!

:)

--r

Newly Inspired [rachelle lee. the personal files]

2010-07-13T10:43:00.000-07:00

so after my post from yesterday, i decided i'd better let you in on what's been inspiring me lately.

as a friend and i were exploring one of my most favorite little towns, we ran into a little display by this artist. it's not often that an artist speaks to my heart, but this one just caught me.

whenever the catalog for this store comes in the mail, i spend days pouring over it. in my next life, i want to be a muse for this company. pleeeeeease . . .

this video made me laugh out loud. and i thought - someday when we all have a lot of time on our hands, me and my peeps (peeps, because i'm all city like that.) should totally do something like this. or this.

and lastly, this one is almost embarrasing. i can't believe i'm sharing it with all of you - but i love this song. i guess it speaks to my heart.

have a great one.

:)

--r

Uninspired. [rachelle lee. the personal files]

2010-07-12T22:42:00.000-07:00

call it a slump.

call it creative block.

call it tired.

or call it stressed out.

Whatever it is/was, over the last few months I have felt completely disconnected from those things that matter most to me. I don't know how I got here. Like the raccoon who sneaks into our house at night, it caught me unaware, and stubbornly persisted through the months.

But rest assured, the raccoon has been caught.

I think I'm making my way out.

I've started a personal project. One that my dad and I thought up while he was out here recently. After much debate, and discussion, we are calling it: Project Half-Life. And together, will be photographing 52 images of things that have been discarded, not recycled or reused and most times, not even thrown away. But simply discarded. A mess that has been simply left to mother earth to clean up. I've been busy walking the alleys and have been keeping my eyes open for the things that people throw away. I have yet to bring latex gloves with me on these excursions, so needless to say, there are many things that I find that are SO worthy of this project, but will never make it into my studio as I will NOT be touching them. (eeeew.)

In addition to the photographs, over the next 6 months I will be researching facts on our garbage and recycling programs and will share them here, in the hopes that it will inspire all of us to recycle and reuse a little more. Our goal, is to have the images ready and in book form by earth day 2011.

To get us started off:
"In 1865, an estimated 10,000 hogs roamed New York City, eating garbage. Now, one of every six U.S. trucks is a garbage truck." ~oberlin college

Unfortunately, I don't have pictures for this project yet - but here's a recent one I snapped during a session. I will be sure to share photos from Project Half-Life sometime soon!

:)

--r

A little sneak peek. [rachelle lee. photographing beautiful boys]

2010-07-12T09:34:00.000-07:00

When I booked this session, I warned everybody - that at two months old, we most likely would not get those beautiful sleeping baby photos. But look at this, he totally proved me wrong.

more to come . . .

:)

--r

A Few More. [Rachelle Lee. Photographing Families]

2010-07-07T18:56:00.000-07:00

Hope you all had a wonderful 4th of July! We spent the weekend together with our friends. The weather was beautiful and the company was great - what more could you ask for? And I always love the chance it gives me to reflect on our great country. We do have it pretty great over here.

And before I close, I just wanted to share a few more from that last family session.

Have a great Wednesday!

:)

--r

playing in the hills. [rachelle lee. family photographer]

2010-07-02T10:49:00.000-07:00

Here's a little peek at a family session from awhile ago. This family was so sweet. They drove all the way from San Jose for an early morning of exploring in my hills (well, they're not reeeeally mine. but a girl can pretend, right?).

Happy 4th of July! Make it a fun and safe weekend!

:)

--r

Little Miss S. in the Country

2010-06-23T18:20:00.000-07:00

I've waited so long to post these, not because I didn't want to . . . but just tying up a few loose ends before I showed them.

Such a sweet little girl, with a cute little personality. I had so much fun on this shoot.

look at that smile.

wide eyes.

hair wisp.

hello mr. horse.

do you have a minute?

carrots are my favorite too.

you make me smile.

upper lip curl.

more wide eyes.

hello mr. goat.

do you come here often?

all smiles.

Thanks Mama N. for taking me around and showing me so many beautiful things today! You are so generous and sweet! And the family loves the cherries, thank you for sharing a bit of your life with me today.

:)

--r

M.I.A. [Rachelle Lee.]

2010-06-18T10:29:00.000-07:00

The last month has been a blur.

Allergies.

Asthma.

To the Doctors.

And back to the Doctors.

Third time's a charm.

Yosemite.

School movies.

School Field Trips.

School's Out!

Play Dates.

Sleepovers.

Laundry.

Housework.

New Swings.

Work.

Two Shoots.

Picking Strawberries.

Eating Strawberries.

Freezing Strawberries.

Strawberry Jam.

Rotten Strawberries.

Bird Feeders.

Gymnastics.

Eye Appointments.

Here's a little peak. I'm so behind on the blog - but wanted to share these from my last mini-sessions.

I'm currently booking from September and beyond as, my summer is fully booked.

Have a great weekend!

:)

--r

(not my) Yosemite. [Rachelle Lee. the personal files]

2010-06-07T09:06:00.000-07:00

Yosemite has been on our list of things to do for such a long time. We've talked about it for years. And we finally decided it was time. We planned, packed and took off - hoping to discover the amazingness of Yosemite that so many of our friends have talked about.

We started at the visitor's center and watched the movie - to help us get our bearings. And we learned about the first explorers and those we worked so hard to get the land of Yosemite protected. And we were promised that we would feel the spirit of Yosemite as we moved about this amazing piece of land.

And we tried. We really gave it our all. We went for a hike. We saw the waterfalls, we rode the shuttles, we packed in our lunches and scrounged for places to eat dinner. We got up for the sunrise. We frolicked in the meadow. And we fought the crowds for a sunset. But there was no beautiful light. And there was no peaceful calm or quiet to be found between the hordes of people gathered for a peak at the granite cliffs. And each and every day I sat contemplating - is this really what Ansel Adams and John Muir had envisioned? A place protected, maybe. But so full of people that you can't really see anything?

Somehow, I think we missed it. And it makes me sad - under different circumstances, this place could really be inspiring. It has such great potential. But like most amazing things in California, it is overrun by us.

One of these days, I may go back and give it another try. But for now, I think I'll stick with some of my favorite spots, located right here. Places that few people have discovered, where I can hear my thoughts and find some peace and quiet.

:)

--r

a Little Mini. [Rachelle Lee. Photographing Kids]

2010-05-25T23:01:00.000-07:00

These two were so cute and fun. He started out a little grumpy (you can totally see it in his pouty face). And then we pulled out the wagon, and he totally loved the wagon. And she - well, she started out shy (you can totally see it as she's twirling her hair) and then she totally opened up and started showin' me some moves!

Happy Rainy Wednesday!

:)

--r

reminiscing. [Rachelle Lee. The Personal Files]

2010-05-20T16:48:00.000-07:00

I still remember what it was like, on days like these, when the sun was warm and the smell of cut grass was in the air. I remember the time, when the days were my everything. I didn't think about the future and the past held no part of me. That day, the one that I just woke up to, was my everything.

And as I watch my kids play with the neighborhood kids, and see them run and climb and pretend and be kids, it all comes back to me.

I remember catching tadpoles and bringing them home in buckets so we could watch them grow and develop. I remember running through the sprinklers, playing london bridges and seeing who could stay in the cold water the longest. I remember playing G.I. Joe - because that's what the neighbor friend wanted to play (I would've preferred to play Care Bears but would have NEVER admitted that to a boy!). I remember digging a hole in our backyard, so big, that we put garbage bags and wooden planks over the top and it became our summer fort.

And I miss those days, when I didn't think about the future and the past held no part of me.

These days, I am obsessed with the future and the past is what has shaped me. Sometimes I just wish that life was a little more carefree, a little more like my endless summers.

:)

--r

Hello Handsome. [Rachelle Lee.]

2010-05-13T14:00:00.000-07:00

"Be interesting, or be invisible."
-Andy Semovitz

I recently had a chance to hear Anna Kuperberg speak. She has an amazing sense of style and is so creative. One of my new goals is to find new, and creative perspectives to help tell the stories . . .

:)

--r

Nichole Van Workshop [Rachelle Lee. gettin' educated]

2010-05-11T14:03:00.000-07:00

A few months ago, I packed it all up for a few days to go learn with Nichole.

And it was an AMAZING opportunity. And as I sat in the classroom I was amazed at how artfully she practices her craft. And all my work seemed so poor in comparison. And I was amazed and how much she knows. And all of my knowledge seemed so small and lacking.

But I picked myself up, and resolved to soak in as much as I could.

And three days and a bottle of advil later, the workshop ended. And I walked away with so much new information and an amazing workbook to help me remember the things I didn't have time to write down.

You can see Nichole's influence in my work already (check out the bridal images in my last post) - I love that I am now incorporating more of an artistic vision! Nichole also talked briefly about using off camera flash and strobes. I hope to be able to incorporate these techniques into my work at some future date - because they produced such amazingly fun images.

These girls were such troopers. It snowed the morning of our shoot, and it was freezing (in cali lingo, that means it was about 50 degrees - and I WAS FREEZING!).

Thanks Nichole and Dave, for being so personable, so willing to share and for making these three days totally worth it!

:)

--r

Vintage Bride in My Green Hills. [Rachelle Lee]

2010-04-30T11:10:00.001-07:00

I had so much fun on this shoot! Many thanks to Ingrid and Charlene for making this such a fun evening. Ingrid is getting ready to launch a new website for her make-up artistry and asked if I'd take some photos for her to use. She arranged for Charlene to come down from the city and made all of the arrangements for this amazing shoot.

And now I know why so many people have started the "trash the dress" photoshoots - because these are just SO much fun. Of course, we didn't actually "trash" the dress - but hey - that could be fun too!

Ingrid - you did such an amazing job. Everything looks so natural and effortless!

Have a Great Weekend!

:)

--r

a little post about something i love. [Rachelle Lee. The Personal Files]

2010-04-27T11:17:00.000-07:00

This morning I was busy tidying up the house, when I realized something. If you haven't been to my bedroom, there's something you may not know about me. Anyone who knows me well, knows that I love books. Not just reading, but actually touching, and feeling, and smelling - the whole sensory experience. And if you happen to walk by my bedside on any given day, you'll find a whole pile of books. And by pile, I mean, 2 or 3 piles, toppling and tumbling. And they range in subject from religious, to novels, to "how to", to "how to raise kids books". And even funnier, is that I read most of these books all at the same time. They are all decorated with my little post-it notes and sometimes, if something really catches my eye, I will write it down in a journal, so I don't forget it.

So that's why I get so frustrated by these online books and magazines. I mean really. What am I supposed to do with them? They sit on my computer and I don't read them, because I can't touch them. And I can't put my post-it notes in them. And I can't take them in the car or on an airplane and I can't sneak a glance at them while I am preparing dinner. And they just plain, frustrate me. Sorry apple, I just may not be the girl for you.

A few that are currently on my bedside table:
Queen Bees and Wannabees - a must for anyone with a daughter. :)
The Biblical World, An Illustrated Atlas - great for those of us that are history impaired - the bible happened where?
Lark and Termite - this one is getting the boot. not worth finishing.
The Blessings of Abraham - just started this one. it is not light reading.
Astrid and Veronika - this one will replace Lark and Termite. I have my fingers crossed that it will be better!
And lastly, my Nicole V. workshop book (which, btw I will be posting about soon - i SO loved this workshop).

And seriously - there are like, 5 more on there. One would think that I have a dining room table next to my bed!

I think this obsession totally plays into my work as well. I love to see things in print. It seems to me, when I finish editing a photo, it's not real until I print it. And in the printing, life is breathed into the image and it is finally complete.

This is an image I can't wait to print. It looks to me, like it needs to be printed big.

Happy Tuesday! I have so many images to put up on the blog - I've just been busy trying to keep everything else rolling. So keep checking back - I've got some great things to share.

:)

-r

This one caught my eye.

2010-04-22T11:16:00.000-07:00

Been so busy, trying to catch up around here. But this one caught my eye, so I wanted to share.

And ummm . . . mother nature? yes, i think i'm ready for summer. i know we really needed the rain, and it's not that i'm not grateful, i really am grateful. it's just that i'm wet and cold and really ready for summer. pleeeease . . . ?

--r

On my desktop today. [Rachelle Lee. Children's Photographer]

2010-04-19T14:09:00.000-07:00

I've been working like a mad woman - trying to get the editing done from my mini-sessions. Having the kids home for spring break the week after the minis, kind-of slowed down my progress. (kind-of? I mean - complete and total halt to all work!). Thanks to all of you, for being so pateint. Not too much longer and your galleries will be released!

Happy Monday!

:)

--r

Little Miss H. [Rachelle Lee. Minis]

2010-04-16T13:54:00.000-07:00

They're finally here! I know so many of you have been patiently waiting for sneak peeks from the tutu and capes minis! And now they begin . . .

Have a great weekend!

:)

--r

Newness. [Rachelle Lee. Newborn Photographer]

2010-04-15T10:07:00.001-07:00

I just love working with newborns. Looking at how tiny and small she is, it just makes your heart melt.

sweet baby hand.

sweet baby lips.

sweet baby smile.

and one in color so you can see her sweet baby skin.

*sigh*

the day is just a little brighter today. welcome to this beautiful world sweet baby e. with you in it, it is truly a better place.

:)

--r

An Engagement [Rachelle Lee. Photographing in Monterey]

2010-04-12T17:23:00.000-07:00

Just love working with these two. They are just so cute and sweet together. And it makes me reminisce when love was new . . .

We went down to my faaaaaavorite little town to take these.

aaaaaw . . . look at those amazing eyes!

Love me a little flare!

:)

--r

Little Honu Sports Camp Ad [Rachelle Lee. Commercial]

2010-04-09T10:50:00.000-07:00

When both of my kids were little, I signed them up for Little Honu Swimming Lessons and was so amazed at the quality of instruction. Most of my friends know, that I'm pretty cautious about my kids (aren't we all?) - so I loved seeing that one of the first things they were taught was how to swim to the side and get themselves out of the pool - all by themselves. They also worked the basic swimming and diving skills and excelled.

So last summer when I was looking for summer camps - I decided to give Little Honu Sports Camp a try. And you know what? My kids loved it. And I loved that they spent the entire week, outside, playing games and having fun.

This is an Ad I developed for Little Honu, to help them promote their business this summer.

Little Honu is running a special this month. If you register for Camp from April 1- April 30 you will receive $20 off your 1st child per week and $10 off your second child per week. Click here for more information.

Happy Friday!

:)

--r

On my desk . . . [Rachelle Lee. Newborn Photographer]

2010-03-30T14:08:00.001-07:00

a sweet little bundle of joy.

:)

--r

Intertwined. [Rachelle Lee. The Personal Files]

2010-03-24T10:11:00.000-07:00

The moment it came out, I knew I shouldn't have said it. But I just couldn't help myself. We were sitting at the dinner table, all together. And the thought suddenly popped in my head and was out for everyone to hear, before I even had a chance to think of what it was that I was actually asking.

Today I am headed to a workshop. I won't be gone long.

But they should be fine. There's food in the fridge, clean clothes in the closets, I've arranged rides, and child care, and more rides and I've made a master list for everyone to follow with numbers and dates and times.

But every time I arrange for something like this, I forget how absolutely intertwined my life is with theirs. I forget how hard it is to leave. And I forget how much I miss them when I am gone.

And when I asked if they would all survive the rest of the week without me, I expected a few smirks and nothing more. And so when her eyes filled with big alligator tears and her mouth curled into that frown, I knew I'd made a mistake. And I swallowed my own tears and made a joke and moved on before she could think about it too much.

xo - I'll be home soon.

--r

A session I've been hoarding - all to MYSELF.

2010-03-23T11:16:00.000-07:00

So I can't really explain it. It doesn't really make sense. I took these photos a few months ago of little Miss S. And absolutely fell in love with them. And so I kept them.

all

to

myself.

They've been sitting here on my hard drive, as if they are my little secret. And I'm sure her sweet little family has been wondering - what about our little girl? Why didn't she make it to the bloggity?

And I guess I'm ready to share my little secret now, how could I keep this smile from you? It was totally unfair of me, I know. I hope you enjoy her in all of her sweetness and love. And hopefully she will bring a smile to your face.

Happy Tuesday.

:)

--r

Happy Family.

2010-03-22T09:38:00.000-07:00

Remember a few months ago when I had my blog giveaway? We were in the middle of the rains and everything was all wet and soggy. And you know what that means . . . ? My hills (I call them mine, because somewhere in my mind, they really do belong to me) are now the most beautiful color of green. *sigh* I love my green hills.

I couldn't think of a better place to go to photograph my blog winner and her beautiful family. Aren't the greens amazing? They won't stay like this for long. Soon the warmth of spring will come, and the greens will turn to the browns.

I love the way they both adore their little girl. You can see it in their eyes, everytime they look at her.

Tinkerbell and her daddy.

Happy Monday!
Make it a good one.

:)

--r

Another Sneak Peek. [Rachelle Lee. Monterey.]

2010-03-16T13:14:00.000-07:00

Such a cute couple. And so many great images. but just one for now.

--r

On my desk this morning . . . [Rachelle Lee. Family Photographer]

2010-03-09T11:28:00.000-08:00

this makes me smile.

I still have a few spots left for the tutu and capes minis - if you'd like to sign up, send me an email!

--r

Announcing: Tutus and Capes Minis!

2010-03-04T09:36:00.001-08:00

ah! Finally!

So excited to announce that not only will we have Tutus at this next session of minis, but we will also have Capes for the boys!!! Can't leave the boys out, right?

Tutus and Capes!
Mini Sessions with Rachelle Lee.

Mini Sessions are much shorter than my regular sessions and are thus, offered at a much lower cost.

The Tutus will be provided by my good friend Danielle, who has started making and selling them for all of the girlies in the neighborhood. And the Capes also handmade, by Oceana Madrone, are regularly sold in Mango Street Kids. So cute. Unfortunately, I don't have any pictures of the capes yet, but they are amazing. Completely lined and made with some of the softest material around. We will have both of these available to use for your photos in a small selection of sizes and colors.

And of course, if you decide you'd like to purchase a tutu, you can contact Danielle at 408.310.2859. And if you'd like a cape, you contact Mango Street Kids (408.842.1722) and my good friend Amber will take good care of you! Both items can be made to order, so if you'd like a specific color or size, they will be happy to make it up for you.

The dates for the minis will be Wednesday, March 31st and Thursday, April 1st. The sessions will be scheduled every half hour between 10:00am and 12:00pm and will include 20-25 minutes of picture taking in and around Mango Street Kids.

Mango Street Kids is located at 7579 monterey Street in downtown Gilroy.

My style is very fun and relaxed and uses only natural light. You should expect to see 8-10 amazing images in an online gallery for your ordering convenience. Each session will include a free 11x14 image of your choice. The cost of a mini session is $75 for one child and is perfect for children ages 3 months and up! Additional siblings may be added to your session for $25 each, with a limit of 3 children total per session.

If you'd like to sign-up, you can stop by Mango Street Kids (located at 7579 Monterey Street, Gilroy) or you can send me a note and we'll get you on the list!

:)

--r

And the Winner is . . . [Rachelle Lee. Mango Street Mini Giveaway]

2010-03-03T10:03:00.000-08:00

Nicole Fierro

Congratulations!!! I'll be contacting you shortly to set up your session!

And a big thank you to all of you who participated.

I will be releasing the dates of our Tutu and Capes Minis in another day or two.

:)

--r

(to see contest details click here)

The Perfect Day [Rachelle Lee. the personal files]

2010-03-01T11:16:00.000-08:00

It's funny. If anyone else had been with us on Saturday, they probably would argue that it was definitely NOT the perfect day. We planned to get up early, drive to our favorite little beach town of Monterey for breakfast, head to Big Sur for a hike and then come back up to Point Lobos for an amazing low tide and adventures at the tide pools. But as luck would have it - this day was just not meant to be.

We awoke to cloudy skies and a little bit of drizzle. And we almost (for about a nanosecond) debated whether or not we should go. But in the end, our adventures are always worth the risks. So we packed up and we headed out into the beautiful gift of green that the rains have brought with them.

Little did we know that our ocean was angry and wild and many of the beaches were closed for the day for fear of an incoming tsunami. And little did we know that the breakfast place would be packed and we would have to wait for a table or that the only road to our hike would be closed due to a downed power line or that the road home would be jammed with traffic on a late Saturday night.

No. I suppose that anyone else would not have seen it as the perfect day. But we were so happy, just to be together. And we loved seeing our beautiful green hills, full of wildflowers and vibrant with color. And we did find two short hikes - full of rain and mud - but we loved them anyway. And we were amazed by the size of the waves. And truth be told, all those other little things didn't even matter.

And I guess that's what makes it the perfect day.

Happy Monday.

:)

--r

good new days. [Rachelle Lee. The personal files]

2010-02-25T11:42:00.000-08:00

Just a little inspiration for today.

Love these girlies.

"Good old days start with good new days like today."
--Denise Settle

(edited to add)

Just a reminder that the Mini-Session giveaway will end on Saturday (as Mango is closed on Sundays). So if you haven't made it over yet - come on over!

mango street kids is located at 7579 Monterey St. in Gilroy.

movie night and a 3 month old cutie. [r]

2010-02-24T18:41:00.000-08:00

First - another little session with Little Miss A. So cute and fun. I love her little tutu.

And before I sign off, I just have to share.

I always get so excited when I find a new netflix movie in our mailbox. Since I don't manage the account - it's like Christmas morning - what movie is it this time???? So yesterday, new movie. And I open it up - and wouldn't you know - it's a chick flick! And I quick texted my hubby - movie night tonight! So we got the kids to bed. He quickly finished up some work on the pinewood derby car while I cleaned up the kitchen. And then we sat down to enjoy our nice chick flick movie. And while I wasn't expecting movie of the year - I was hoping for that happy, funny, gives you the warm fuzzies and makes you want a boyfriend/husband who loves you more than the moon movie. Unfortunately, it was a total bomb. I hate that. So back in the mailbox you bummer movie. I'm going to try my luck with the next one.

Happy Wednesday!

--r

Did I mention that we're having Tutu minis???? [Rachelle Lee. Children's Photographer]

2010-02-16T09:04:00.001-08:00

Sneak Peek. I'll have to leave you in suspense for the rest of the photos - I'm off to play with my kids today!

note: dates for the tutu minis will be announced in another week or so.

:)

--r

hellllllo weekend. i've been waiting for you. [Rachelle Lee.]

2010-02-12T18:24:00.000-08:00

dinners. dishes. laundry. 2 sets of homework. 1 book report. mini's edited. send emails. plan birthday party. buy supplies for said party. make cake. decorate cake. prepare snacks. prepare lunches. celebrate at birthday party. read. read. read more. 1 piano lesson. cub scout den meeting. pay bills. schedule flight. schedule rental car. make bank deposit. drop off shoes at cobblers. pick up shoes from cobblers (oops. next week). drop off dry cleaning. pick up dry cleaning (oops. again). dishes. do them again. and yet again. and what? they're dirty again? prepare favors for school auctions (a work in progress). 2 haircuts (thanks Heather!). 3 sets of valentine's cards. practice piano. tune guitar. check messages. pick up kids. pick them up again. and again. drop kids off. and again. and again. go grocery shopping. go back to the store to pick up the things I forgot. night out with the girls (yay!). pick up valentine's present (oops. sorry hubby).

It's finally here. The weekend. It seems like the weeks are so busy, that we LIVE for the weekends these days. Have a good one!

:)

--r

A little sneak and today's musings. [rachelle lee.]

2010-02-11T12:05:00.000-08:00

aaaah. internet. we have a love hate relationship. and on weeks like this, where I get sucked in for hours and I wonder where all my time has gone, i hate you. but still, i love you for all of the information that is just a click away.

i've frittered away hours, reading J*'s blog, waiting for Tara to answer just one more question, and scheduling my accomodations for this workshop (SO excited for the workshop btw).

*sigh*

all such good things. but my throat is starting to hurt (uh oh) and my eyes are reeeeeaaaally tired. so just a few pics and then i'm signing off.

Chubiliciousness. [Rachelle Lee. Havn' fun over at Mango]

2010-02-03T09:22:00.000-08:00

For three weeks leading up to these mini-sessions it rained. And I don't mean a little drizzle, I mean the "pause in the car, while you scramble for something to hold over your head, and then dash to the door and still come out soaking" kind of rain. And it was looking like we would have to totally reschedule all of our January mini-sessions. And then, just in time, the clouds parted and I sighed a HUGH sigh of relief.

This little man was the cutest ever. He was laughing and smiling and we were running around putting him in different little corners and taking pictures like crazy - and I almost used up a whole memory card in 20 minutes!

He just celebrated his 1st birthday and is just adorable. Happy Birthday little man!

Happy Wednesday!

:)

--r

A Mini Session Giveaway!

2010-02-01T10:00:00.000-08:00

SO excited to announce this.

Amber (over at Mango Street Kids) and I have been planning this for months! We will be scheduling our next mini-sessions for sometime in March/April (still working out the dates). And - so excited to say that we are partnering with a friend to have tutus available for the photos for all of the little girls! More details on that to come. Until then - look for your Feburary issue of Out and About Magazine for a free entry to the giveaway!

:)

--r

my little friends.

2010-01-27T11:03:00.000-08:00

I was just updating all of the galleries on my website - and just had to pop over here to say - I think I must have the best job in whole world. I just love all of my little friends and they are just SO adorable.

*sigh* thanks for making my job SO much fun!

:)

--r

Another Family! [Rachelle Lee. Family Photographer]

2010-01-25T10:19:00.000-08:00

LOVED the energy of this family. We went over to some of my most favorite places in the back alleys of Gilroy - and we talked and played.

And found this fabulous blue wall with yellow meters - I mean seriously? It's like they guy who owns the place knew I would be coming! And I love, love, LOVE the one of the dad running.

And they brought their skiis - one of their favorite family activities.

And they brought a football! I love these ones of the boys.

And I even gave the parents permission to "make out" and boys just about died! I laughed all the way home over their faces!

Such a sweet family - and some of our best friends. Thanks M for such a fun morning!

:)

--r

Trying to be bigger than me. [Rachelle Lee. The Personal Files]

2010-01-21T08:47:00.000-08:00

This past weekend was the firm's ski weekend up in Tahoe. And I'm not usually a downer - but I really didn't want to go this year. We went last year - and tried the snowboarding thing - and I have never been so grateful for a helmet in my whole life and OH how I wished I'd had a helmet over my whole body as I flung it down the hill in the hopes that I'd only fall a dozen or so times before the blessed end of the hill came.

But I mustered up my courage and told my hubby that I would try skiing for one day and I would give it my best and then I almost lost my dinner when he told me that my lesson was going to last 6 hours.

I didn't sleep for two nights.

And then in the Gondola on the way up the mountain, for just a moment, I thought I might know what it felt like to be my mom on a vacation long ago. A vacation where she gave it her best, because she wanted the experience to be a good one for her family, but she was miserable. And I didn't really know it at the time - but she was up nights drying our clothes from the torrential rainstorms. And the hill that we had to hike many times a day, was extra hard for her - because as we found out later, the tumor in her brain was affecting her walking. But she persisted. And put on her game face and gave it all she had.

And inspired by her, I put on my game face and gave it all I had. And over two days, I skied every green slope at the resort and made it down two blue ones (only a few bad words came out of my mouth!).

And my family? They had a great time. We put them in ski school this time - and I highly recommend it. They had our two little kids on the mountain ALL DAY LONG for two days straight. Keith persisted with the snowboarding and Jordan was the cutest little skier on the whole mountain. I wish I had a picture of them - I was proudest mom ever.

--r