Winter in Seattle

We were having a mild winter...until this week! Tuesday, winter arrived with a vengeance.  Anyone who has ever experienced a snow storm in the Seattle knows that it is a love-hate sort of experience!  Love - because the kids always get a snow day (they cancel around here at the mere threat of snow).  Hate - because nobody knows how to drive in it.  Where else in the world do people simply abandon their cars on the side of the interstate and walk home!!!  To add to the fun, the snow was followed by the first ice storm in 15 years. We awoke to one of the most eerie sounds - it was deathly quiet because of all the snow and lack of power, then suddenly the silence was shattered by the sound of snapping of the branches, and load "thuds" as the branch hit the earth! (Or the roof a few times)  Thankfully, everyone in our house had the week off and when the power went out for two days, we had our generator.  I hate to say it but I am ready for some RAIN!

Good by 2011, Hello 2012

2011

What a year it has been!  Much of 2011 was spent on leave from my airline job. Initially, trying to decide whether or not it was a sound idea to pursue my dreams in photography, and ultimately deciding not only that it was, but managing to build a business along the way. It has been a very rewarding experience. I have been able to photograph some great people, fun families, sweet babies, awesome seniors, and beautiful weddings.  My time away from the airline also allowed me to spend some much needed time with my beautiful children. I am an active volunteer at their school, I've made it to nearly all their sporting events, and I've enjoyed more relaxed quality time with them.  I've even had the time to "kick back" on the couch to catch a movie without guilt!  I am looking forward to what 2012 has to bring.  Below are some of my favorite pictures from 2011.