Up until now I have been a believer in raw photography...now I believe in photoshop.  Tyler, my brother asked me to take his senior pictures this year...yes, I still have a brother in high school, and I was honored to capture his grown-up self this past weekend.  Feeling that the time was right, and I personally have liked myself in fewer photographs lately, Jahred and I invested in youth/software that is cheaper than botox.

Because I'm not yet a pro, I am experimenting with different effects to see exactly how far I'm willing to go.  I do think I'll keep my photos honest, but playing with the colors is oh so much fun!

Because this is Tyler's last "first day of school" I thought I would include Axels first "first day of school."  A big year for both of them.

Axels first day of pre-school, only the red eyes were removed.

Andy (the middle brother in our family) turns 24, Axel decorated two cakes with candles.  Some color work was done on this photo.

Tyler's senior pic.  Selective coloring on this photo.  This could get addicting!

I'm actually speechless when it comes to a major project that I've just completed.  Having mentioned to many people that my grandfather was the original scrap-booker, now, publicly in print is a 166 page book of his collection!

After a summer of scanning, editing and having a little faith, I have published his collection through Blurb into an 11x13 semi-chronological book (can be found under search: Richard Ruedy).  The outcome is stunning, the publishing is beautiful, and the image quality is spot-on!  I honestly cannot believe how it looks in print.

Wishing he were alive to see his treasured collection preserved forever in the pages of history, I can only imagine the stories he would tell about the articles, pictures and captions he placed on each page.  I know it was his hand guiding me on late nights of formating, re-formating and making final editorial decisions.  In the end, the book is more or less exactly how he scrap-booked it, and exactly how he would have wanted it.

Perhaps the most compelling part of the book is the final third.  This part of the book came from a separate album that he held of Memorials.  Clipping each obituary from the paper, he honored and preserved every fallen member of the Saint Paul Police, retired, killed in the line of duty, family members of Police Officers, and it was clear how much he cherished each and every friend on the force.

Yesterday the book was officially presented to the Saint Paul Police Historical Society.  Nana brought us all together at their monthly meeting and she generously donated a copy of the book.  What's even more wonderful is that on Blurb, the book will always be available in their bookstore and people can order them for gifts, as memorials and to leave to their own children.  For any Minnesota, Saint Paul, Police or history collector, it covers a remarkable time in history.

With gratitude for all the circumstances surrounding this year, truly the gift of free-time has been my blessing.  Feel free to "preview" the book through the Blurb website.  If ever you are interested in creating a similar book, I would be more than happy to throw a few pointers your way!

One thing I love more than experiencing Etsy love is to SHARE Etsy love.

Last semester, my brother had to come up with a business proposal for a class in school (yes, I still have a brother in High School).  He came up with a candle business.  He designed, created and sold his product in a "mock market".

Although the candle technique has been passed down in our family, his designs and color combinations were quite unique.  The "mock market" was a success!  He sold loads of candles and the proceeds were donated to charity!

Wanting to build on his business experience, he started inquiring about Etsy.  A proud moment for me!!!  

Tyler has worked hard on his product and has put together a stunning little shop!  CHECK IT OUT!  He calls himself "The Candle Man", a play on words from our favorite childhood movie Willy Wonka.  If "the candy man can", hopefully "the candle man" can as well.

Enjoy this OOAK "man-made" shop! CLICK HERE!

I had to treat myself this week to a few NEW fabrics.  These are straight from the Japanese Textile Design Table (the best in the world), and I like to think I'm the first to get them!  Fabulous design, color and texture; the kind of fabric where you measure twice, cut once.

Upon their sweet arrival in my mailbox, I completed the 19 Louise Totes already started and listed them in my shop. Today, thanks to Buzz Lightyear, Axel was occupied enough for me to put a few Pleated Wristlets together in the NEW prints!  What a treat!

Check them out in my shop.  I have only a limited amount of this fabric, so treat yourself while they last!

Feeling like I am emerging from a shelter post tornado, we are "settled" in the "Chateau Del Mar".

The closing on our property is less then 48 hours away, Axel has only asked twice "please lets go home", and I have managed to tearlessly lead the exodus and final cleaning.

Despite our tiny living quarters, I have managed to create a liveable version of the home we loved so much!  It also helps that I am very fond of our new town.  Not sure if it's the nostalgia of returning to my college stomping grounds, the smell of the food co-op or the library that is more beautiful than a Rocky Mountain lodge, I am happy to be here.

Being so "snug", I am learning quickly to think verticle.  Every shelf has a purpose and every shelf top is utilized as well.  I am secretly pretending that "Chateau Del Mar" is in New York City.  I've wanted to live there possibly my whole life and I just consider this practice (or maybe the closest thing I'll get).  Never mind the shabby siding, I see our place as a lovely brown stone on the upper east side...our door man just happens to be on an indefinite vacation.

Well, more to come when the closing on 810 Baker is actually over and I can officially breathe again.

DON'T FORGET ABOUT MY ETSY SALE . . . see previous post.

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