3:23 AM

Sleep, elusive in a pretty bed.

Discarded Things

What is it about discarded things that gets me? I imagine the life they had before being set out to the curb or piled in a dumpster. Who cuddled and then outgrew their stuffed animal? How many infants were consoled in that cradle? It does seem to me that these jettisoned objects radiate energy and stories - - all of which are mine to envision. I don't see trash, I see things that were once held dear.

These images were made using a Lomo LC-A+ with actual film, which feels old school and so right for me at this moment. Shooting film requires patience. It may take a week to shoot 36 frames and then, I have to wait an entire hour for CVS to develop (and mangle) my film.  I tend to forget what I photographed and enjoy visual surprises. This process works well for me. Patience is a dying virtue but I am bringing it back, slowly.

Game Face

January and February are celebratory months in our home. Both of my boys have birthdays, which I always find bittersweet. Why are the years passing by so fast?  It seems like just yesterday I was living every moment of 2001: A Baby Odyssey.

I was fortunate to share in another family's birthday celebration recently. A few weeks ago, I photographed my first Bar Mitzvah. I found the experience to be more personally emotional than I expected. Just at the point when the Bar Mitzvah boy was to be introduced into the main banquet room I became rather choked up. It was a big moment to witness - - watching this young man at the intersection of playful and determined.

Florida Pair

In December, I visited my parents in Florida. Unlike being at home, it seems that time stops when I am there. Maybe it is due to the limited computer access or lack of routine. The air is heavy. I like how it slows me down and allows me to take notice. Inevitably, we all have to pause - - even if we are not ready to do so.

Stomach Bug

My son was at home battling a stomach bug yesterday. He was sacked out on the couch, dazed and comfortable in front of the flat screen. I remember secretly loving sick days as a child. Sure I had to visit the doctor, but the trade-off was watching endless television, eating Pine Bros. Cough Drops (which could deliciously cure any ailment) and polishing my nails until they were, in my eyes, perfect.