September 11th, 2009
Yes… I did it! I survived the first week of college. The house is a disaster. We haven’t really eaten. But Rob has kept up with the laundry (yay). The kids have gotten to school (yay). And somehow, I’ve managed to get out the door (yay.. wait… um… no… that’s a yay too… I guess).
LOL I was going to post a photo of me looking all tired and depressed. Actually, Ewan took a pretty good one, but you know. They’re out at karate right now and I’m expecting a friend any minute. 
That’s my story at least! A little compassion needed over some scrapbooking on her part, blank staring on mine. Wait, no… she’s more likely to kick my ass into gear! LOL What are good friends for?!
School is pretty daunting! I can’t say I’m not excited, because I really am! Especially for some of the photo projects. I’m just really not sure how life is going to work around it all. I wake up every morning with my mantra of, “I can’t do this” as my kids and husband shove me out the door. As Billy Murray said in “What About Bob?”, baby steps…. right? I just don’t have a bomb strapped to my chest. *evil pinky to lip* Or do I? muwahahahahaha Perhaps I’ll be the reason the school is doing a lockdown drill next week. *Disclaimer: In no way is Carolyn Macpherson liable for any real or threatened bomb attempt anywhere near or or on Georgian College campus, residence or properties. Seriously folks, that shit is messed up!!!
Anywho. I haven’t shot anything since my FIL’s funeral last week. Everytime I view them I get kinda teary. Don’t know how I’ll ever get around to editing them. I know my MIL is kinda getting antsy for them… ugh… Maybe on Sunday.
Okay, so now I’ll be taking bets on who thinks I’ll last the second week. Remember, Friday is the last day to opt out without any financial losses! 
Posted in Life, Photography, School | 2 Comments »
September 4th, 2009
Well, to start off. There’s no way I’m getting my photo challenge done. Aren’t I a crap?! Hopefully I’ll have some time here and there after I jump right on into things to still fix up some of my summer pics. Especially on my brand new LEGAL copy of Photoshop Creative Suite 4! I swear, I’m a kid in a digital candy store! WHOOHOO! Let’s hear it for plug-ins!
Why didn’t I have all that lovely time I thought I would, you ask? Between running to very informative workshops at Georgian College, getting the rest of my gear and books (btw, I LOOOOOVE my new flash… even if it isn’t the one I really wanted, lol… hmmm and how am I gonna get me some Gary Fong diffusers…), getting the kids food, clothes, shoes, etc for their back to school… my Father-In-Law passed away. He had fought a hard battle with lung, then brain cancer and finally succumbed early on Wednesday morning. The kids are pretty devestated and Rob is as well. Just, think it will take until everything is quiet again for him to really grieve.
In the meantime…. I’ve had my arm sorta, kinda, twisted to go for the Tattered Angels design team call. Okay, okay, well you all know me better than that. 
It really didn’t take all that much. I mean come on!!! Check out all those gorgeous colours and chipboard! www.mytatteredangels.com Oh my. Now I’ve done it and drooled all over my keyboard. *blush* But seriously! Have you ever played with Glimmermist? No?! Wha??!! Put down your mouse and run to your local LSS and BUY SOME!!!! It is absolutely amazing stuff and I’d jump at the chance to help design for Tattered Angels!
So here are the pretties I’m submitting as my portfolio to the lovely ladies of Tattered Angels. Hope you guys like ‘em! Leave some love or constructive criticism (or icky yucky plain ol’ criticism if you absolutely feel the need). You know I appreciate hearing from y’all!
Posted in Life, Paper Arts, Photography, Projects, Scrapbooking | Comments Off
September 1st, 2009
Hey all you cyber-peeps. 
How y’all doin’?
Well, let me start by saying I’m so freaking tired! Just in general. The funniest thing is I think I got the best sleep last night that I’ve had in a long time. Perhaps because I had the bathroom and bedroom windows open? Fresh air? Hmmmm… I will have to try that again. Hope I can store up some energy for next week! Still have to get that last text, flash and indoor shoes for the boys. Le sigh.
As for my photo editing challenge… Yeah I think I got 1 more done. Geesh. I’m really on the ball, huh. Ugh, well perhaps in the next day or two, but who knows. Unfortunately my FIL is quite ill and we got the word today from the hospital that “it” will probably be within the next 24 hours. Rob’s up there at RVH with his mom right now. I’m just trying to keep the boys calm and happy while, tidying up a few bits and bobs.
On another note, I’m almost done my crocheted surplus-style bag. Well. The original pattern is army surplus style. I’ve added my own little innovations with very neat, black “bling” yarn. I just got to chart out an applique pattern to go on it and then sew the clasps on as well. Should be cool
I am really pleased with how this turned out. Too bad the glitter doesn't scan well.
It’s the 1st of the month, that means new kit time at www.scraptivity.com! This month features mirrors, inchies and Glitz’s Plum Crazy line. Here are a couple of projects I managed to get done. I keep hoping to try and get at least one more done or even an ATC. We’ll see. Again, things are pretty much up in the air.
Finally used one of my Admission Portfolio pics in a layout!
The DT call for Scraptiv!ty is closed now, I’m really looking forward to all the talent that has been submitted and to meeting the new team!
Guess that would be about it for now. Gotsta go switch over the laundry, feed people and finish cleaning up the kitchen floor. Maybe… just maybe… if I cross everything and wish on a star, I’ll get a chance to do some creative work later. Be it on the computer or at my work desk.
Posted in Life, Paper Arts, Projects, Scrapbooking | Comments Off
August 28th, 2009
Here we are… the last official week of summer. Soon, the kids will be in school, I’ll be in school and Rob will be at work. Am I excited?! Heck ya! Am I scared as sh*t?! Heck ya!
Got most of the big money things out of the way. Everything bought and paid for except for my flash and ink cartridges for my printer. That should be doable. Other than that, got to work my way through my mega-unending-get-around-to-it-finally-must-get-done list. Like make sure my printer will fit under the kitchen counter and in fact, cleaning the kitchen cabinets so I can even try to get stuff in there. I guess, just a whole whack of general sorting/cleaning/organizational crud.
Good news is… I have one family portrait session on the books firm! YAY! I have another one to book in as soon as school is in full swing AND looks like I may get a maternity shoot too. WOOT! I feel like I’m getting well on my way! Thank you so much!
Speaking of which! Free shoots/editing/photo discs offer will continue to be available a bit longer. My portfolio needs some good padding!
Now, my challenge to myself. Hmmm… School starts on the 8th. I’m going away for the long weekend and I have some design work to accomplish pronto. After the kids needs, that leaves about maybe just under a week of time for me to accomplish the impossible. I want to get through all my unedited summer photos, polish ‘em up and get them posted. Think I can do it? I think there’s about 1,500 (+) photos to get through.Hmmmm …. I’m not sure myself, but I never turn down a deadline. I just don’t want them all to fall by the wayside once things really get cookin’!
Here’s one… just to tide you all over for a wee bit.
- I have another version of this that I absolutely love. Rob outvoted me though. Still trying to figure that one out seeing as it’s 1-2-1…
Posted in Life, Photography | 6 Comments »
August 9th, 2009
Sigh. After going through all my photos, I have to say, I’m a bit disappointed. 5. Count them… :S All of 5 photos of my boys. I spent more time chasing them then taking pictures of them. LOL None of them good enough to really share either. o_O Oh well. C’est la vie.
Much thanks going out to the Zito family! Such wonderful people and without them our vacation wouldn’t have happened! We can’t wait to visit again! We had a blast playing! I know we have lots more exploring to do out in the area, the kids are dying to play with each other and we absolutely must get back to the Hungry Bear Diet notwithstanding.
So here are a few pics from our trip. Be sure to click on the thumbnail to view full size… I think. :S Still working out the kinks of this program. Good grief!
Also, just a reminder, still offering free photography services for your special events or family portraits. Photos edited on CD ready for printing. Just be sure to email info@carolynmacpherson.com for details before time runs out!
Posted in Photography | 2 Comments »
August 4th, 2009
For the Scott Kelby Worldwide Photowalk, Barrie edition, that is. I didn’t really hope that I would. I don’t think I’m that good, lol.
Winning shot of the Barrie, Ontario, Canada chapter of the 2nd Annual Scott Kelby Worldwide Photowalk.
Big congrats goes to tpbookey! I’m happy to feature your shot above! I’m not sure I met or spoke with you, which is too bad. I absolutely loved the photowalk and certainly will do it again, but that really was my only complaint. I wish we had had a bit more social time. Perhaps as everyone in the group gets to know one another (because I believe most of us will be joining the Barrie Photo Club), it will be less awkward.
I’ve started browsing through other cities and WOWZA! I’ve got to say, such amazing artists out there! I have such a long way to go, lol. For giggles, here’s the link to my hometown’s walk. Brampton, Ontario, Canada. o_O I’m blown away by the talent I never knew was around there! I can’t wait for next years walk!
In the meantime, though, if the kids allow me some solid work time, I’ll get to editing some cool stuff. We had a lovely little mini-vacation in Sudbury, thanks to my friend, Stephanie. I’m hoping I got some okay shots from there. Was more worried about chasing the boys to be honest, lol. Then just on Sunday, Rob and I went hiking in the back woods around Balmy Beach and found ourselves first at the top of awesome waterfalls (where Rob was ready to tackle me as I considered wading out to the top of them) and then roughing it to stand directly below them! Such an amazing thing! Be sure to stay tuned!
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July 21st, 2009
I’m pretty pleased. I know it isn’t a whole lot, especially compared to the amount of pictures I did take, but hey, I like them. Lots different from my normal style. Much more architecturally based. Be sure to click on the thumbnail to see the whole image! :S I haven’t figured out how to put the whole picture in yet. LOL Just another thing to learn!
I would so recommend this to anyone! Get yourself out there and check out the crags and crevices of your local area. Even if it isn’t on an organized photowalk like this one. Just make sure you have a cell phone or a buddy in case of emergencies! And never go into an area you feel uncomfortable in!
Now… all I have to do is try and choose my 2 favourites to upload for the challenge! Wish me luck!
Posted in Photography | 4 Comments »
July 19th, 2009
Hey again! How’s everyone this Sunday? I’ll tell you, in short, I’m kinda depressed. Between my Autistic kids trying to kill each other (like that’s an excuse) and trying to figure out if college really is the right way to go (btw, please, please, please comment on whether or not you think it’s worth going to school for professional photography! I really need people’s advice on this one) and lack of sleep (perhaps a deviated septum)? I dunno. Just really worn down.
On the other hand… I’m super excited that I participated in the Scott Kelby Worldwide Photowalk yesterday.
See?! LOL All I have to do is mention it and I get all jumpy excited, bouncing in my seat! I had such a fantastic time. I wish we had more of an opportunity to socialize and get to know one another. It felt just as it was starting and everyone was doing their own photography thing, we had met at the pub and it was over! I would absolutely love to meet up with that same group again!
At the moment, I’m trying to get some laundry done, get the kids separated and settled and edit some of my shots from yesterday. What fun! I have to do my own photowalk thing more often. I think I got some okay shots. I’ll post them as soon as I’ve got them all finished up!
Hope you’re having a fantastic weekend and are all in good health!
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July 15th, 2009
Hey there, everyone! How you doing?
Okay, well so far, this is me talking to myself. Just thought I’d get going though. I’ve just posted a bunch of photos in my new Flickr and Red Bubble accounts. So we’ll see how that goes. The links can be found under my contact page. I’ve still got to figure out how to embed URL’s here.
Anyway. Can’t say I’m too happy with the Deviant Art community. Too much bs going on, I think. Lots of younger “artists” posting lots of… ummm… well…. I’m sure someone thinks it’s art somewhere. I am planning on setting up a Facebook Fan Page and also getting some more up to date photos into my gallery here. Make sure you’re on the look out! I’m thinking we’re about to enter an exciting time!
PLUS, I’m going to try and jump in with both feet. I’m looking for clients who would be willing to trade event photography for use in my portfolio. More or less what I’m saying is free (on disc) baby photos, grad photos, weddings, anniversaries, reunions, or any kind of event you can think of in return for letting me use the images to build my website galleries and portfolio. Sound good?! This offer won’t last for long! Be sure to give me a shout at info@carolynmacpherson.com
I hope to hear from you soon! I can’t wait to get you in frame!
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