First shot

I took several candid shots of my typical fodder at the Botanic Gardens today - kids and dogs.
This is the first one I looked at once downloaded, and I think it is a sweet, true photo of Karissa.
So thought I would blog it before I go through the rest and think I like another one better!

Already Surpassing the National Standard

Our friend and colleague Kate brought baby Leah, now 10 days old, in to meet everyone today. A school staffroom is a hustling and bustling place at lunchtime, and teachers are not renowned for being quiet... Yet Baby Leah was not wanting to wake up to show us her beautiful eyes. (No matter how Mel tried...)

She did however, show us a tongue-filled smile. This does not, of course, ordinarily occur until about week 4-6. It could be argued that it's a reflex smile, but we all know that this baby is just incredibly advanced; already above National Standard as far as we are concerned!

Sleeping Beauty

Here is New Baby Leah.

A princess if ever there was one.

Perhaps not the best time of day, or of her schedule, to catch a perfect shot, but there's no doubt she herself, is perfect.

Rocker Bye Baby

Firstly, I can't for the life of me why this font has decided to appear today.... very annoying!

Baby shower for Ms Kate and her 'Little Miss' today.

I did not subject those who partook is Lisa's fun-but-gee-you-look-ridiculous games to being photographed as I did for Linda's baby shower a couple of months back, mainly because I was participating and it is very hard to take photos while you are trying to manoeuvre a toffee pop from your forehead to your mouth without touching it.

But I did take a photo of the gift I bought for 'Little Miss' before I wrapped it this morning. I happen to love these Bud Design T-Shirts - and if you do too, check them out at http://www.babydesserts.co.nz/

Cutey Cutey!

...as babies always are...

Miss Karissa, now 6 weeks old.  Sleepy eyes and perfect lips.

An oldie, but apparently a goodie

MPS club night, and as mentioned in an earlier post, I was brave and entered 3 pics this month; one into the Open category, and two in the set subject which was 'Song Titles' this month.
I put forward this pic - a very familiar one to my friends, and a favourite of mine for some time. Not technically, but because of what it conveys.
I have always titled "The Secret", but called it "Do you want to Know a Secret?" to fit the set subject. I also threw in this one and called it "Baby Love" (Are you singing in your head?)
The judge tonight liked the human element in photos it would seem.  I like this shot of Dan and Hugo for both the connection between the two, and the fact that you cannot read/see Dan's face. I also like its simplicity. All of these things he seemed to like too.  I quite like Baby Love,  but am bothered by the size of the hand - it is out of proportion with the head because of the angle I was at.  Interestingly when the "Baby Love" pic rolled over, the judge made comparisons to this dog-and-boy one, not knowing of course it was by the same 'Author', as photographers are referred to.
Pictures are awarded acceptance, merit, highly commended and honours. Thrill of thrills, The Secret got honours and Baby Love highly commended.
I also entered Lily in the Open category. There was an audible 'Ohhh' from the audience when it flashed up. I was amazed with the feedback and superlatives this photo got, and when I spoke to the judge afterwards, he asked if I took it on a 'job' - as if I was a pro lol. Lily also received honours, and was even in the final 3 for Open shot of the evening.
Memo to self - learn to give self more credit. Learn to accept and believe in positive feedback. Try harder not to undersell yourself. But stay humble and true.
Well done, Lynn.

Karissa Mae

So here she is, the little bundle of Majurey joy who was still happily ensconced in her Mummy's tum on Friday when I visited.

Thanks for inviting me to meet her Linda - you all look so relaxed, content and happy.

Long may that atmosphere reign!

Hugo LOVES Babies!

Today on our newly established get together at the Botanic Gardens, Joshua woke during our coffee break and Katie decided to introduce him to his first dog.
"Pick me" said Hugo - he has always made a beeline for babies, and being a gentle soul is a far better first canine acquaintance than his energetic brother.
First Joshua got the sniff treatment, then a lick on the leg, before Hugo surprised us all and decided to get a closer sniff!
Joshua took it all in his stride though, and did not freak out as he would have had license to do with a lunge like that!

Baby, baby, baby OH like....

Isn't is amazing that even when you have a stack of stuff to do, a baby can make you drop it all and spend time with them?
This little guy, Alex, had all of us at work wrapped around his little finger within minutes. Even at his tender age he knows some good flirting moves and has some amazing comedic touches. He also has the most intriguing eyes you have ever seen on a baby. And no, it's not just because I have caught my own reflection in them in this shot.
Loved seeing you both at school today Rebecca, please come again soon!