Lisa McClung Blog and Photography

2012-01-27T22:15:00.001-08:00

As she stares at herself in the mirror,
the fine lines that furrow around her brow.
She's reminded of the last 5 years
and missing him just as much now.
Wondering why still that it had to happen,
still trying to justy this wrong.
Watching the girls as they grow
and wondering if she'll grow old alone.

I miss you, I feel you even though you're not here
I want to, so badly..turn back the years.
But life must go on..
The words must be sung...
I miss you...why'd you have to leave.

Been good for quite awhile,
making my business work and living life.
Seeing that the girls are raised properly
not sure if I'm always right but they seem happy.
I know they think of you
I know they miss you
They talk about you all the time to me,
if only you were here to see...

I miss you, I feel you even though you're not here
I want to, so badly..turn back the years.But life must go on..
The words must be sung...
I miss you...why'd you have to leave.

Then came the news that made us falter,
your Uncle had passed away that day.
Although we're grateful for the time he had here,
it brought back memories of your passing.
Now I write this song
I know maybe the words don't rhyme
but I hope that they touch someone's heart...
because life, dammit its sure hard.

We miss you, we feel you even though you're not here
I want to, so badly..
to turn back the years.
So we brush off our tears,
smile because we know you're near..
and our memories of you will last forever...
we miss you
thank you for those years.

by Lisa McClung
1/27/2012

January 26, 2012

2012-01-27T22:13:00.000-08:00

Rest in Peace Uncle Mike..you will be sorely missed. I know you're up there in heaven with Steve and Grandpa. It has been beyond upsetting that this has happened but we are thankful that we had this time with you.

Updates and Thoughts

2012-01-07T08:55:00.000-08:00

Wow, its been a couple of months since I have posted anything on here, my bad. Anyways, not too much has happened. My daughter Sam, my granddaughter Erin and my future son-in-law Travis are all doing great. I am sure its a struggle living in one room in my house but sometimes when the unexpected happens, you deal and know its temporary. Sam has enrolled back into college and I couldn't be happier.

Megan is doing well, still struggles a little in school but tutoring helps. She's an amazing young lady with a kind heart, loveable attitude and I adore her. I love my oldest but Megan was way better than Sam at this age...lol.

Kristen is doing well; she has been learning to play the clarinet in band and does quite well. It looks like she will be needing some braces soon and I know that's not going to go over well, she doesn't even like getting her teeth cleaned. I can't believe my youngest is in her last year of Elementary school, makes me sad. She's my littlest Angel with a heart of gold.

Me? Just working the photography business; its a struggle that is worthwhile. I don't make resolutions but my goal this year is to "bring it" and work on my poetry/song/photography book. We shall see how that goes and what kind of interest I can generate from it.

There is no one in my life. Scott and I were dating and he's awesome but its just not meant to be. Like everyone else, he jumped ship and I realize now why...something better is coming. This I know for sure so I am dropping all thoughts of a relationship and am just going to enjoy life.

Rantings 11/17/2011

2011-11-17T21:14:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I feel like a failure in everything I do. This town has been good for me in a lot of ways, and not so good in others. I came to this town to heal and I found that, along with some great people. Now that I have my head screwed on straight, maybe now it is time to move on. Maybe this was just the stop before the place I need to be with my girls. Maybe it is what I need but I am in such a rut that I do not know it. Regardless, I guess just playing out one-day-at-a-time is the best bet.

The past 4 years I have learned so very much about photography and things were really going good for awhile there, now I find myself in a place where I do not want to be. For one thing, it is apparent that indoor photography is not for me. No matter which way I play it, my images never comes out the way that I want it. Sometimes I feel like a failure and that I will not get anywhere with it, other times I feel like I am flying. Lately though, it's the failure that I am feeling. There are a lot of "photographers" in town claiming to be professional and taking business away from others by offering free photo shoots. Is that what it is about nowadays, anything for free even if its not that good?

Tonight, I was ready to give up and I even felt that way up until the last paragraph. Now though I feel that with each word I type, my desire to succeed may help me through this. I am not claiming to be a professional or something that I am not. What I am trying to do is show the world the beauty in everything and everyone. Maybe I have lost sight of my goal through all of this? Maybe I am in a creative rut? I know one thing, it is just me and I need to get off my ass and just do it.

Update 10/24/2011

2011-10-24T23:06:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow will be my daughter's 19th birthday...amazing. I have a new granddaughter who is 3 months old. Her name is Erin and she is a very special baby. Erin was born on July 18, 2011. Her grandpa was born on July 18, 1966 and died September 30, 2006. She was 3-weeks early and what a special day she decided to join us on. Her birth was rough but here she is an what an amazing baby girl she is.

Megan is doing well with school, except for math...ugh. She is part of the "Sidewinders" a traveling softball team. She plays Left outfielder and is getting better and better. Kristen is in band and plays the clarinet, what a smart little girl I have there.

Nothing new with but working and doing what I love, Photography.

Life Today 9/26/11

2011-09-26T22:50:00.000-07:00

In 4 days it will have been 5-years since my husband was taken from me, a father taken from his children, a son taken from his parents, an Uncle taken, a friend never to be seen again and just a plain wonderful man. This was my husband; the one who would tell me I was beautiful when I was sick and looking like the devil. When I was overweight, and I was way overweight, he used to always tell me how beautiful I was. This man taught me to live and through him I became the woman that I am today, through his loss I am a better person and humbled to have known him and all his lessons.

Now, I sit here and the nightmare returns, as it always does right before the "date". It is as if I fall apart that whole entire week and then I can breathe a sigh of relief when it is over. Almost as if I was anticipating it and waiting for some big revelation, but I am left with the pain. I am left to try and raise my girls without their dad, without a role model and without a complete home. No matter how many people offer me well-meaning advice, they have no idea what I am going through. They do not see when my kids withdraw, overreact to something small, cry for no reason and sometimes just sit there. I see their eyes whenI tell them grandpa isn't feeling well, they can sense it.

As I age and watch my beauty on the outside fade away; my skins youthful vitality slowly goes, my eyes fill with fine lines, my face a little sallow..I am left with what I have inside. And inside, I am an amazing person with some pretty darned amazing kids and anyone would be lucky to have us. Like the rose that withers, the memory of it beauty stays with you. As your shell of a body fades away into life, the eyes reflect the youth that is still there as you struggle through lifes trials and the aging process.

For now, I smile but struggle. I am tired but I keep going. I have no answers, but I keep seeking. I still hope and pray my children are given the best life possible.

Updates

2011-09-25T23:01:00.001-07:00

Well, I'm no longer dating my cutie from Mesa but ce la vie, I knew it wouldn't last but I didn't expect it to be because of distance that we broke up. Personally, I think there is more to it but I guess he didn't want to hurt my feelings. Thing is, I'm so sensitive to people around me and how they feel about me. It is a good and bad thing at the same time.

Each relationship I encounter brings me closer to the one I have been waiting for. The one I can sense and who I know is close but not close enough. Until I've learned my lessons, he will not be presented to me but you know what, I have. I really have no desire to date anymore. I tried it with Scott and a couple others, I"m done. None of them can meet the expecatations I have set forth. The one most important one being, love me and my kids. It is not hard to love a child, you are missing out if you cannot.

My daughter Samantha had a baby on July 18, 2011. That amazing thing about that date is it is the date that Steve was born, only he was born July 18, 1966. I felt his presence in the hospital that day. It was a very spiritual moment for me.

Speaking of spirituality, I am very spiritual. I can sense things sense emotions and feel how people feel about me. My gift is the ability to receive messages and write what I have been told in forms of quotes, poetry and songs. At first it used to come alot but it has slowed down and I think it is because I had wrapped myself so much into the perfect guy to make me happy instead of my life's path to make me happy.

Anyways, that's it for now.

Just Some Thoughts

2011-08-18T11:38:00.000-07:00

As I go through each day, I wonder if this is it. Is this where I am going to be the rest of my life? Do I have to accept the fact that I am here and I know that I should not be? Is this circumstance due to my inability to find a way out? Is there no way out? Am I too scared to find a way out? No!!!! This is not where I am going to be the rest of my life. I will not accept this fact. I can find a way out because I am determined. I am not scared but I am empowered. This is what you should be thinking and saying to yourself.

Too often in life we accept the circumstances that we are in because of the above reason, and assuredly many others. Some of you may be in a relationship and have been with that person awhile. You are thinking you have no way out, or you feel secure in the sameness of it; the comfortable feeling of not having to start over. You make excuses as to why you cannot leave and you stay; bitter, unfulfilled, unhappy and always searching for something else. You resort to finding things to fill the gap, or someone to fill that gap but you never get that gap filled because you have yet to cleanse the past and deal with the situation at hand.

Let me tell you something right now, you have a choice. Your life is in your hands even if you do not think so. You have complete control of your life, don't let life control you. You can change anything that you want in it by simply doing. What are you waiting for? Until you get to old to get out of your current situation? Until you become so bitter things get worse? Until you die? What if your destiny is out there for you to find, but you stay wrapped up in your little protective shell. What if the one that you are meant to be with is out there, but you miss the opportunity out of fear? There is much to think about and you do have a choice.

Not listening to your gut, your intuition and your heart; can you hold you back from the life you were meant to lead, or stall it. Why would you want to stall? Don't you want to be where you truly belong? Never settle for something but expect more. It is OK to set your standards in regardless to life, career and love high. Why not get exactly what you deserve and nothing less? I'm not saying what you want will be perfect, but settling is not an option for me. We all deserve happiness, love, the freedom from financial debt and health issues. Why not? If you expect that you will not have this, they you will not. Keep in mind though, if its not meant to be you can't force it but you will eventually get to your destined path.

by Lisa McClung 8/17/11

Unnamed Song

2011-08-18T11:33:00.000-07:00

Maybe I'm too close
to feeling for you.
Where will it lead
through this crazy life of mine.
Opened up my heart
and let you in.
Was it a mistake
to thin we could begin.
I ponder why we met in this life.
Was it to close what once was,
in another time.

**Reflecting upon my life
wanting to find the right thing
the place where I belong
the place where I begin
show me the way to your heart
or shatter mine now so we can part**

Time to open up another chapter
to my true self
And close the door on this one
on what could have been.
A decision has to be made
cause I'm not young anymore.
Not a lot of time to reflect
before the passage of time.
Everyone growing up in my life
soon they will fly.

**Reflecting upon my life
wanting to find the right thing
the place where I belong
the place where I begin
show me the way to your heart
or shatter mine now so we can part
Shatter it now
so we
can
part...

by Lisa McClung 8/17/11

2011-08-18T11:29:00.000-07:00

Drowning in indecision
disheveled from life's changes.
Missing the one who is behind me
thoughts for the future with him gone.
Although a new life began
still lost and sometimes without direction.
Kids growing and soon I will be alone
not part of my blueprint for this path.
Waiting for the one that was told to me
seems like a lifetime before that will be.
Vibrant and I alive I feel, even when sad;
heart sometimes torn in different directions
not sure of what I want.
Not sure of what they want.
Waiting for some type of revelation
time to stimulate my spiritual situation.
...and find the answers I crave for;
Cause they are in each one of us
and everything there is what we seek.
Delve inside your mind
to pick apart what they do see.
The things you have yet to recover
and is brought for you to discover.

by Lisa McClung 8/17/11

Soft Little Soul...

2011-07-12T22:47:00.000-07:00

Soft little soul,
so hard on the outside.
Soft little soul,
who cries for those hurt.
Soft little soul,
given to little emotion.
Soft little soul,
I see through you....

by Lisa McClung 7/11/11

Somewhere in Arizona....7/6/11

2011-07-07T22:30:00.000-07:00

You would think that I would want to share the wonderful experience that I had hiking with a friend, but I can't. Let me tell you a little bit about my day before I explain why this is.....

Met with a friend 2 hours from where I live to start another adventure, one of many since we started dating in January 2011. We hopped into his car and drove 1/2 hour away and on the way braved washed out roads filled with water, mud bogs and scorching heat. Finally, we reach our destination. Preparing for our hike; water-check; flashlights-check, boots-check, camera-double check. Not 10 feet from where we were was the shell of a deceased turtle, sad the poor creature died and most likely became food for another animal; such is the circle of life.

On the way to our destination we ran across a baby speckled rattlesnake, not much activity in this little reptile due to the heat. It was just curled up into a little ball wanting to sleep until the sun descended into the sky so it could forage for food. We snapped a couple of pictures and went on our way to our destination, an old mine shaft.

None of you are aware of this but I am deathly afraid of small, dark places and this was such a place. Brushing aside my fear because I was with someone I trusted, and cared about, so I followed him in. Bats were flying overhead, there was a damp, dirty smell to the place and I felt my heart in my throat; beating with some fear. Slowly as we stepped deeper inside the shaft, my fears subsided. The bats would move forward as we did, which was a bit nerve-wracking at first having them fly overhead, but I managed to snap a few pictures before moving further. On we crept in a "crouching tiger hidden dragon" kind of stance, lol. Finally, it ended and you could go no further; our search yielded only bats.

Then came the walk of all walks for me, the walk in the heat of the day. Not being an advanced hiker yet, and not really a big fan of blistering heat, I suffered a bit and was drenched in sweat by the time we reached our next cave destination. Phew, I made it is all that I thought. This yielded nothing but you could tell by the way the earth was shaped that animals did dwell here. It was in a cool area, on higher ground and protected from the elements. To me, it was quite fascinating being this close to a wild animal shelter. Around we walked stopping at another place but that yielded nothing, so the trek back---arghhh, not good with heat but I am seriously going to work hard on adapting to it better. Regardless, my adrenaline was pumping and I loved every minute I got to spend with him.

After a quick restroom and much needed drink stop, we headed back out to another area. Probably not the best area to go, so we ended up turning around for reasons I will not tell you. Its our secret...lol. We ended up hiking a short distance to this huge mine shaft, with different openings and deep crevices. Now this place was intriguing, except for all bees...yuck. Never have I ever stepped foot into a place like this and gazing at the walls around and above me, I was in awe again at being able to just be here to explore. This produced nothing so we checked out a shelter my friend had made for the local animal population, he fixed it up a bit more for them; what a great guy.

We started walking back to the mine shaft to take some pictures of the structure outside of it, I walked to the edge and was shocked. Just below me was a beautiful little fox starting up at me with its inquisitive eyes, pointy ears, and sweet shaped face. Before I could recover and snap out my camera it was gone from site, darn. My friend and I went back down the mine shaft to try and locate the fox but he was gone, sad. That is when I got the dirtiest because I was bound and determined to find this beautiful creature and photograph it for my portfolio, so I tried to climb to where it might be....black hands, yuck. Rubbing my aching head, because I had slammed it twice into rock, we walked out and went back to the car.

My adventure was coming to an end. We stopped and cleaned up, grabbed a drink and headed back to my car. If I could tell explain to you how I felt to be out there, how it felt to see what I have seen up close and to be with someone I trust to show it to me, I couldn't. It is one of those things that you "have to see for yourself". Images will follow soon!

So long for now.

Oh, before I forget. I can't tell you where I went because we go to help protect what is out there but not everyone is like that. We do it to show that even these creatures, so frowned upon, are actually beautiful and a part of everything around us. If too many people found out where this was, then it could destroy that natural habitat they live in. For now, we show you their world through a lens, writing and seek to protect what they have.

I'll Wait For You

2011-06-23T22:53:00.000-07:00

I'll wait for you until the day I die,
its when we realize it was not a lie.
It is the truth that life has set forth,
putting us together on this collision course.
Destiny awaits and someday we'll find,
that it was meant to be until the end of time.

Some of this Year's 2011 Seniors

2011-06-10T13:45:00.001-07:00

2011 Seniors

Some Things About Me

2011-06-10T09:01:00.001-07:00

My kids are my life.

If you do not give 100% of yourself to me each time we're together, then you need to stop seeing me. Each person you're with, each date you're on should be met with 100%or nothing, at least that's how I feel. No other way to find out about someone unless you do.

I won't date someone who smokes cigars, cigarettes or marijuana.

Surprise visits from that special someone to make your day.

Sometimes I want to be treated like a princess instead of always having to be the mom and dad and being responsible. Once in awhile I would like to have the door opened for me, a kiss on the cheek telling me I'm beautiful. I'm very simple.

Once in awhile I will have a glass of wine or a beer, I prefer to be high on life.

I love to hike and be outdoors, most all of the time.

Photography is my passion and my career.

I've tried to like all genres of music but I dislike most all punk, screamo and banjo type music.

Vanilla, the other chocolate in my eyes...love it.

Roses...the most beautiful thing ever.

I find that snakes are fascinating, thanks Scott.

Cursing is unattractive, especially in women.

I am passionate about everything and everyone in my life.

Each person who I get to know and sticks around, grabs a little piece of my heart...even if they go away eventually.

I am Spiritual.

I do not like church, where does it say in the bible I have to go to church. Jesus praised the Lord outside in the great wide open..that's how I like to do it.

I love myself, I didn't use to but I have learned to love me so when Mr. Right comes along, he will know what it is to be loved.

Onions...yucky.

Coffee....what more can I say.

I am loyal to my family and friends..If you call me and need me, I am there. Those who know me know this to be true.

Liars...get away from me. Holding back is the same thing as lying. I try not to do that, honesty is the best policy and if presented the right way, is beneficial all around (even if you end up losing a relationship). If you cannot accept honesty, leave my life now.

Players..those who need attention from the opposite sex for confirmation of their masculinity. This is to those guys out there who have more female friends than male because they're either searching for something or need to be reaffirmed that they're a man. The same for you women. Sometimes we get along better with the opposite sex, but everyone knows the type I'm talking about.

Dislikes over-sexed women...yuck. Can you say trash!!!!!

Yosemite National Park..I want to see it again.

Do not make me angry, you will not like me when I am angry. What makes me angry? Disloyal people, someone who lies to me and most of all, someone who hurts my kids in any way. I will tear you up..LOL!

In The Moment

2011-06-02T07:40:00.000-07:00

Will you live with me,
in this moment?
Can you give that much away?
It is not a commitment,
it is just another way.
Can you let for go a short while,
and show me some heart?
Why hold back at all?
You will not fall.
Living in the moment,
it is my style.
I promise you this,
it will be worthwhile.
Laugh with me at
the silly things I say and do.
Let go just a little,
your might surprise yourself too.
Suspend the hands of time,
as we spend time that day.
Will you abandon everything,
and let go to play?

by Lisa McClung 6/1/11

My Sedona Visit 5/29 to 5/30

2011-05-30T22:55:00.000-07:00

Sedona Visit 5/29 and 5/30

Wow, to say that I was impressed by the natural beauty, aura and friendliness of this town is an understatement. A few days ago I decided that I wanted to go hiking in Sedona. This is one of the cities on the list I have to see this Summer, so why not start as soon as I could. The reservation was made at Quail Valley Inn and I took the girls. As soon as we got up to the Visitors Center, I was enthralled by the beauty before my eyes....absolutely breathtaking.

The girls and I pulled off into the Visitors Center to buy our hiking passes and to get some trail maps. While there they had a display of snakes both venomous and non-venomous. A ranger was holding a King Snake and it was a pretty big snake. The girls and I are looking at it while she is asking others if they want to hold it, no takers and some ladies were "ewww". So I did what I had to do, swallowed my fear and said "I'd like to hold him". She handed over this snake and my heart started beating wildly in my chest but as soon as I felt it wrap around my arm and slither in through my hands and fingers, I was hooked. What an amazing creature this was; the texture of his skin, the muscles I felt against my arms and hands as he moved, the light tap of his tongue. It was awesome....I'm hooked.

We got back on the road to the few miles to town and again, jaw dropping gorgeous. It felt instantly like I belonged. It was the best feeling ever and for the first time since moving to Arizona, I felt good about it knowing this place was near. Maybe I will move here, maybe I won't.

I took the girls hiking on Mystic Trail first because it was an easy one and then we headed over to Little Horse Trail. To say I was proud of the girls was an understatement. Through the raging winds, the heat of the sun and the fact they really don't hike, they did great. We walked about 3 miles and took numerous pictures. The girls did not complain, they did not cry and they did not ask for anything. They were content, as I was, in just enjoying the excitement of hiking and rock climbing...of course we didn't actually rock climb with equipment but we did climb up the side of a rocky hill; so its rock climbing to us. We checked in to the hotel, had some Subway and then went back into the room to settle down for the night . What a great day and I am so very happy.

We woke up the next day, walked to the coffee shop and had some breakfast. The place was fabulous but the service was horrible. I could not believe how unprofessional the girl who was waiting on us was, and I was not the only one that felt like that. Alas, it was OK because nothing was going to deter me from my happiness at being here. We checked out of the hotel and went on our way, destination was Cathedral Rock.

We parked our car and walked along Baldwin Trail and low and behold, a beautiful sight was before our eyes. A stream, like a tiny river flowing through the beautiful trees like a little oasis amidst the trees and rock mountains around us. The girls and I were instantly hooked, off came the shoes and socks and wading began. While the girls waded I took the time to try and take images of the moving water. This was difficult because I had neglected to bring along my tripod that was in the trunk of my car, but next time I will have it. Not deterred I set out to capture the little rivers beautiful flow.

As I was poising to take some images I hear the beat of a single drum, so sweet and soulful. I look up and I see a Native girl pounding on the drum, looking at the water and the beauty around her. I could see her bend and kneel by the water when she was done. As I moved closer I could see her and she was crying slightly, whether from pain or happiness I do not know. In that instant I could feel the quiet serenity around me like a soothing, cool blanket. When I had gotten home I had thought I had felt nothing but thinking back to that moment I realized I had.

After about an hour we started our beautiful hike back through the trails and rocks back to our car. As I headed out of town I actually felt depressed, almost like I had left a piece of myself back in Sedona. As Kingman came into view I knew that this was no longer my home, this was not where I wanted to be. Soon, I will have to make a decision to better my life and those of my girls.

For now, I will enjoy the beauty around me on my own or with my favorite tour guide, Scott.

Good Night

My California Visit 5/20 to 5/23

2011-05-24T18:11:00.000-07:00

SoCal Visit

Anticipation and excitement was reflected in my eyes and manners as I headed to Palm Springs to see him, it has been 2 1/2 months and I was ready. We met up at the Best Western Las Brisas Hotel in Palm Springs, California. It was beautiful and sunny, the perfect day to go out and look for some adventure. Our first stop was the 'canal'.

The 'canal' is just a cement wash inside Mecca, California where snakes and reptiles seem to find themselves lodged; people like Scott, and myself, find ourselves searching through the trash and rubble in hopes of finding lost and forlorn snakes and reptiles. This day was hot and beautiful so as we're walking we happened upon quite a few snakes. A Coachwhip, a few sidewinders and a Shovel nose. You would think that by turning over a rock you be would struck at by these mostly venomous snakes, but that is not the case. They usually are just lying their peacefully curled up into their little snake balls, their bodies neatly coiled in a circle around their heads.

All were relatively docile, rarely striking, but the Coach Whip, wow! This snake does bite but is not venomous and it kept trying to strike at him. What a feisty snake this was, all spitfire and fury and ungrateful, he saved his life by putting him back into the natural desert surroundings. There was one Sidewinder that did strike at his camera, and he got a good shot of it but it was slightly blurry...too bad. The walking we did that day tired me out and we ended up getting a really good nights sleep, and we'd need it.

I took him to the Living Desert on my birthday, 45 years old..wow. I sure do not feel that age and I am glad that I have taken the time to take care of myself. The Living Desert is in Palm Desert and boasts some exotic animals such as jaguars, giraffe's, zebras, mountain lions, Mexican Wolfs, etc. It was an extremely beautiful day and very warm out. We ended up spending just a couple hours there before heading out to Joshua Tree National Park.

Once we got to Joshua Tree National Park, we immediately set out for a hike. I had no idea I would be that sore and for the first time I had a hard time keeping up while trekking uphill, but complaining is not something I do. Besides, I loved it and I wanted to continue on without failure. Alas, we ended up heading towards the Lost Palms and turning back within a mile of the end of the trek, but I was OK with that. It was dark towards the last part of our trail and we ended up scoping the terrain with a headlight and flashlight, its actually very invigorating hiking at night. I intend to go back soon and continue this hike without stopping.

After that, we did some road cruising and found some sidewinders, glossy snakes and the biggest prize was....the Western Diamondback Rattlesnake. Scott saw him as we were driving and what a sight this snake was. All majestic and hissing in its fury of being disturbed, yet another ungrateful snake; we did not want to see it being road kill. Before he sent the angry guy on his way, we took some pictures of this very angry snake. As the snake was leaving his tail was all spitfire and fury, even as we drove away we could hear his rattle.

The next day was ideal as we headed to Idyllwild, California; a beautiful SoCal mountain town with amazing hiking trails that go uphill for hours. This was torturous on my already sore body but I did not mind, I was enthralled by the beautiful terrain and the company I was with. His perseverance and drive is really quite inspiring. Since meeting Scott I have become more adventurous, searching outside of the town I am living in for beauty, wildlife and fun. I've come to learn more about who I am and what I want in life since meeting him and venturing out. They say each person in our life teaches us something, well I have learned and hope to continue to do so. Where will it lead? Who knows and I don't care, just enjoying the company and the world around us...that is how you enjoy life; each moment..each adventure.

My Rantings for Today....

2011-04-18T22:03:00.000-07:00

Having class does not necessarily mean you have money.

Blinkers...use them.

If you had used dental floss a long time ago, maybe you'd still have your teeth.

Smoking...ewww; enough said.

Elevators make my stomach queasy.

Why does everyone diss the President, let me see you get your butt up there and try to run the country---darned know-it-all.

Welfare---drug testing should be mandatory.

Do not assume I am like all the other women you have dated, I am more than you bargained for.

The News, information they are told to give us.

I hate when I see people throw trash or cigarette butts out their vehicle window.

Whining.....personally, I don't like it and try not to do it.

If men had to bear children, the population would not be out of control.

When a woman has a cold she still cares for the kids, cleans the house, runs errands and goes to work.

When a man is sick he ceases to function.

A Mom

2011-04-16T20:41:00.000-07:00

I am single mom. I have callouses on my hands. My nails are not that long. My hairs seems to always be a mess. I work on cars and the yard, as well as the house I pay bills and kiss tears from my children's eyes. My days run about 15 1/2 hours. There are tons of miles on my car from toting kids around to different adventures. My body is strong inside and outside, but my heart is still that of a woman. It is soft and compassionate. Just because I am tough on the outside does not mean I do not feel things or hurt. It just means I am strong enough to take it. by Lisa McClung

Don't Walk Upon My Heart

2011-04-14T16:11:00.000-07:00

We met on a beautiful sunny afternoon, our hands met and then it was when I knew. The spark, your kiss and your touch, I smiled at the sky and thanked the heavens above... They brought you to me cause I finally said yes. Don't walk upon my heart, you could've let me know what was wrong. Don't walk upon my heart I could of fixed it long ago... but you never let me know. Now we're here and we have no place to go. It started out all so innocently, the fun endearments and words to the girl. Sure of myself and confident in us, I tried to ignore what I knew was going on. You didn't delete that one comment that she made, I saw it before you took it off. My heart shatterd as I read her words... "Hey babe, I enjoyed last night". Don't walk upon my heart, you could've let me know what was wrong. Don't walk upon my heart, I could've fixed it long ago.. but you never let me know. Now we're here and we have no place to go. I gave you everything.... I gave you my whole heart... I trusted you and believed. I ignored the warning signs as we drifted apart. But now I see, it was not meant to be.. just not meant to be. Don't walk upon my heart, you should of let me know what was wrong. You walked upon my heart, when I could of fixed it long ago. but you never let me know. Now we're here and its over.... no place for us.. now it is time to-------go. by Lisa McClung 4/14/11 @ 11:15am

I See....

2011-04-05T22:45:00.000-07:00

I see you hiding.... I see you suppressed... I see you with the wall.... I see your small breaths... I see your soul..... I see that it is good.. I see that you were hurt... I see right through you... I see you loved... I see you felt pain... I see you happy someday... I see you in love...

The Weary Child

2011-03-27T22:36:00.000-07:00

Brown eyes filling with tears, the child looked up... A face alight with love, smiling like the angels above. Staring at her with intent, staring at her with love. "No one will ever hurt you, I promise you this". The voice full of concern. Love and concern poured over the weary child. Hair full of ringlets, she smiles as her heart fills... the void goes away; even if only for a short time. As the child grows, she remembers what she was told. It carries her through the years, as her life unfolds.

The Date

2011-03-26T08:34:00.000-07:00

Beautiful ivory dress bought, shoes to match; restaurant reservation made at this wonderful Italian Restaurant. Anticipation fills my soul as I look forward to my date with him because it has been almost 5 years since I got to be a lady and dress up for a date. He always sees me in jeans, boots and t-shirts hiking and sweating on the trail, which is amazingly fun by the way. Now, he will see the feminine side of me and I hope that he will not be disappointed.

What makes this date worthwhile, besides a great guy, is the fact that I have such a unique birthday present for him that it inspired me to launch a line of products for my photography business. At the risk of saying to much, I have to say that my first line will be called very simply "Reptile". It will offer the customer a range of products that will surely make the male receiver happy. It is both unique and useful at the same time. Back to the date....

Anticipation settles almost as if I was young again but then again, my internal body feels young. I have the exuberance and excitement of a 20 year old who is meeting up with her boyfriend for the first time. There is no way I can say that this man is my boyfriend because we do not put a label on our relationship, nor do I know if he is dating others. I do know this, when I am with him it is just me and he is mine for that time and for this, I am grateful. So to him, see you April 22nd.

I Am...

2011-03-25T22:48:00.000-07:00

I am a silent romantic...
I am a dreamer...
I am a realist...
I am truthful...
I am motivated...
I am earthy...
I am beautiful inside...
Can you see me?
Or are you blinded by your ego?

Copyright Lisa McClung 3/25/11

Just Random Thoughts

2011-03-24T22:47:00.000-07:00

Do you ever notice how much you hear that word? It is amazing...You're amazing....What an amazing day....Did you ever notice how amazing the sky looks? Amazing....Such a simple word with such impact you wonder as the users ability to really comprehend and use this word.

Some of the little things in life, people do not notice but it is those little things that can tell the story. For me, any slight change in someone I am close to I can pick up on in right away no matter how hard they try to hide it. Why? It is because I am very observant and detailed orientated, I see the world differently, in my opinion, than most. If someone is not being real with me, I will know. If someone is using me, I will know. I think that maybe some relationships could be saved, or ended earlier, if people paid more attention to what was around them instead of living in their own little bubble.

Why do people never let themselves love fully? Is there such thing as half love? Half a relationship? Why can't you just live in the moment and give 100% of yourself, whether it is love or not? Why not fully live each time with your date, lover, friend, partner, husband 100%? What are you waiting for? As long as you both know what to expect from each other, just live. I live that way. I can't live or love half way. Seriously folks, enjoy life.

Honesty...sometimes saying nothing or making a change is noticed so to me, it is not being completely honest. I say what I say and when asked something, you will get an honest answer. Do not expect me to tell you what you want to hear if I disagree with you.

Thieves and liars....both are on the same level.

Spirit Wanes

2011-03-22T22:24:00.000-07:00

With one word
a heart can hurt.
With one look
a spirit sinks.
Tone of voice,
can be sad.
A careless gesture,
can get mad.
Heart aches..
spirit wanes...
tears well...
song ends...
but....
with a smile
a glance of love.
A kind word,
spirit rises.
Soul rejoices,
time to sing.

by Lisa McClung

2011-03-22T22:23:00.000-07:00

My heart hurts............

Images from Joshua Tree National Park

2011-03-20T21:12:00.000-07:00

March 15, 2011

Some images that I took while visiting Joshua Tree National Park!

Joshua Tree National Park Day 2

2011-03-19T23:52:00.000-07:00

Our journey for the day was to Barker Dam, which was amazing. It was an extremely easy hike and as we made our way to the dam we stopped by and took some pictures of the petroglyphs on the inside of boulders. Looking around all I could think of how lucky I was to be able to walk through this and see with my own eyes the handiwork of our creator.

We made our way to the dam and as we climbed up the rock stairway leading there I was in awe. Out in the middle of no where was this little paradise of boulders, desert plants, lizards, ducks and a dam holding a tiny body of water in place. The pictures Scott and I took were amazing, the reflection of the boulders on the water. I felt like I was in another world.

We walked around a bit more and headed to Skull Rock to take some pictures and then headed back to camp. Scott was expecting Will, an Herbatologist (hope I spelled that right). Will was set to meet up with us and we were going to go hiking to hunt out some reptiles. A bit after lunch he showed and we immediately set out on our destination. It was not a hard hike but a fun hike, I learned quite a bit about reptile life while hiking with Scott and Will. Alas, we found no real snakes on our hike but Scott got lucky; he climbed up the side of a rock hill and happened upon a spotted snake (I hope that's right, lol).

We all hiked back to Will's SUV and climbed in and headed towards Mecca, near the Salton Sea. We climbed into a canal and we happened upon a baby snake immediately under a rock, quite a sight. We saw one more before climbing out an heading to the Salton Sea. What an amazing rush and experience to do things I have never done before with an amazing guy and an experienced Herbatologist.

Salton Sea, that's another story. It was pretty enough and we captured a great sunset but the stench, wow. Let me see if I can describe the stench; horrid, nose burning, vile inducing smell of rotting fish carcasses was so overpowering I nearly passed the bile from my stomach. After my shot I backed away and went back to sit in the vehicle. Even stepping on the "Sand" and I have quotations because the sand was literally sand and bone from the dead fish mixed all together.

Anyways, after that we went back to camp and regardless of the Salton Sea's vileness, I really enjoyed my day with these two guys, I learned alot

Joshua Tree National Park 3/15/11

2011-03-17T22:03:00.000-07:00

There is no way I can begin to explain the way I felt seeing this park for the first time. Scott and I pulled up to the campsite and it was like my eyes were being fed some kind of drug, it was amazing. Dazed and in awe is what I felt; it is like really seeing for the first time. With every new experience or place that I encounter, I am awakened to a deeper sense of just how amazingly beautiful this planet is. There is so much out there to offer someone if you just go look for it. The last few days I felt like I was part of something bigger and the company I was with, amazing guy. Each time we go out I learn something new, explore something exciting and delve into things I may not have ordinarily done.

On Tuesday we put up our tent and immediately set out on a 8.2 mile adventure. Hiking through the beautiful trails on our way to the Lost Palms. It was an ardorous journey for someone who rarely gets the opportunity to hike and we went at a very fast past so we didn't have to hike back in the dark. But when we got to our destination I was enthralled. Out in the middle of nowhere and on the side the hills, a grouping of palm trees; incredible and beautiful.

On the way back we encountered a desert tortoise, very shy but lying on the pathway. The sun was setting so the desert took on an earthy, warm color that was soothing and surreal at the same time. Anxious to get back before dark, we walked at a fast pace and my legs were on fire. It did not matter though because the beauty of what I had seen made the pain small because I felt blessed. Scott and I headed back to camp and at the very last, we were in the dark. Tired and drained we headed to bed for the night.

Day 2 post tomorrow; pictures to follow.

Too Old to What????

2011-03-10T22:28:00.000-08:00

To old to start playing the guitar and quitting your job for photography, that is what I have been hearing by a few people. Seriously, who says? Where does it say that after a certain age you should give up on your dreams and resign yourself to a job where it requires no real creativity? Someone who would say something like this has no dreams of their own and must squash those of others.

My dream from very young on was to be a martial arts, been doing it 11 years. Photography was my passion since I was 8, I am now living my dream of being a Photographer. Guitar lessons, who wouldn't want them? The guitar is on my list of things I will learn to do.

Life is way too short to adhere to what everything expects or thinks of you, it is time to live your life in the way that you want to live it. So go dance under the stars, skinny dip in the ocean and for gosh sakes, take a chance; even a small one will change your life.

Just Sayin'

2011-03-09T22:11:00.000-08:00

You know, I like Kingman for its small town ways and beautiful surroundings, but there is nothing to do here. If I want to hike with a group, I have to head out of the city. If I want to go shopping, I have to head out of the city. Even the guy I am dating lives out of the city. Seriously, what is here for people like me

I like hiking and I tried to find a local Meetup.com club, there is nothing here. The same with a photography group, there is nothing here. To move would be out of the question though, especially with a new grandbaby and my kids love it here. I guess I will have to just keep doing what I am doing, travel outside to find what I want.

A New Hobby

2011-03-06T21:03:00.000-08:00

There is much to be excited in my life right now, I have taken on another hobby. This hobby is something that I have wanted to do since I was little, play the acoustic guitar. It just seems so soulful, peaceful and challenging. There are not a lot of people who I know my age would throw themselves into their dreams, but why not? What age limit is there on dreams? The answer is simple, there is none.

Much has happened to me the last 4 1/2 years; loss of a husband, medical scare, big move, new job, new town, heartache, meeting someone I like and my daughter getting pregnant. What better a song to write about then my life? I don't know where it is going to take me or who I end up with, but I am going to enjoy the ride on the way to my destiny.

So for now, I take each day and opportunity that is presented to me and go with it. Also, I am going to learn the heck out of that guitar because I can do anything I want to do, and do it well, so watch out......

Daddy's Girls

2011-03-04T12:11:00.000-08:00

Expressions, laughter and memories frozen in time,
photos reflect lives at their moment and prime.
Happy it was to see daddy with his girls,
bright blonde and brown hair curled.
Arms resting around his precious bundles,
smiles alight with reflection and wonder.
Hanging on tight and not letting go,
the grip of love on his face he does show.
Wishes of a time from past brought now,
bringing back their daddy I don't know how.
What we can hold onto is precious memories,
staring at the photo of when our life used to be.

by Lisa McClung 11/22/2008

Sweet Prince

2011-03-04T12:09:00.000-08:00

Open your arms to me my sweet prince,
feel true love like a cooling rinse.
Open your heart which you have blocked from me,
let yourself go and you will surely see.
Free yourself from what you feel love should be,
and a new life of love will be shown to thee.
Do not hesitate but cherish the thoughts,
of love found and love that was lost.
You will figure out what is real and is meant to be,
it may not be who you think or the soulmate you see.

by Lisa McClung 10/12, 2008

Do You Hear It?

2011-03-04T08:13:00.000-08:00

Do you ever listen to the wind,

as it whisps through your hair?

Do you close your eyes,

and hear its sirens cries?

Do you listen to the earth

as it cries out for your help?

Do you do anything about it,

or are you wrapped up in yourself?

Do you ever touch the sand and dirt,

right before your eyes?
Do you know that it lives?

Do know that it cries?

Do you see what is happening?

Do you see what is real?

Our World is crying...do you hear it?

by Lisa McClung 7/2009

The Mind

2011-03-04T07:32:00.000-08:00

You can't see me, you can't feel me,
you don't know me so how can you judge me?
Step inside my mind what do you see?
A soul who is lost, a soul in agony?
Do you see someone trying to find their way?
Making mistakes that they eventually have to pay.
Learning from each day as it plays,
adjusting life and living for the day.
Doing things to see where it leads,
saying things and doing the deeds.
Some day, some way we must find our place to play,
in the sun, having fun and enjoying life day to day.
Mixing, mingling, loving and singing,
we must do what we need and find what life is bringing.
So before you step inside my mind,
be prepared for all the workings of life.
Are you ready for the ride?

A Daddy

2011-03-04T07:29:00.000-08:00

A daddy is strong, handsome and fun.
A daddy likes to be outside under the sun.
Working on the yard, house and cars,
a daddy will gaze with you at the stars.
A daddy will let you go without your hair done,
until Mommy comes home and spoils all the fun.
A daddy will protect you from all harm,
that comes your way.
A daddy is like a kid and also likes to play.
So appreciate your daddy for all that he is,
show him much you love him;
just because you're his kid.

6/2009 by Lisa McClung

Quicksand

2011-02-28T22:02:00.001-08:00

Spiraling out of control,
my mind trying to unwind.
No relief my way,
want out but have to stay.
No one to grasp my hand,
just drowning in quicksand.
Too much to take in,
gotta save myself with the pen.
Find the words to release,
seems like I claim defeat.
Suffering with a smile on my face,
the grin that I can't seem to erase.
Do they not see that I am aware,
I feel like it sometimes is unfair.
Be real to me or you will see,
what a force that I can be.

Seize Your Life

2011-02-27T21:46:00.000-08:00

‎"Carpe diem"....seize the day. How about "seize your life". Some of us are just going about our life working, going to school and looking forward to the weekend. What about the time leading up to the weekend? Did you forget about the rest of your life? Change something about your life in the weekday so the weekend is not your only time to experience life and shine, seize your life.

2011-02-27T21:32:00.001-08:00

Your lips touched mine,
I melted against you.
Felt like I belonged,
that you were made for me.
Your soul was connected to mine,
as you pull me near.
I hear only our breath,
as we get lost in a passionate kiss.
It ended; you went back to your life,
I went back to mine.
Always will I remember,
the sweet feeling of being yours;
for that one moment.

2011-02-26T22:35:00.000-08:00

I took a walk on the wild side, I was mesmerized. One look in your eyes and I was lost, there were no lies. Only a soul that was dignified, I felt electrified by your sighs.

Sublime

2011-02-25T20:56:00.000-08:00

Gazing into your eyes,

my soul reflected there.

The first time we met,

I knew you were sincere.

You pulled me near,

and eased my fear.

Strong arms encased,

around my waist.

You pulled me tight,

it felt so right.

Your lips touched mine,

it almost felt sublime.

2011-02-23T20:17:00.000-08:00

To say that I am complex, would be an understatement, but then again I am a simple person who expects only what I can give. To say that I am simple would be like calling a banana an orange, I have layers just like the earth we live on.

Someone asked me why I want to be a photographer and why I would make a good one. I thought about it for a minute and gave him the only answer that I could possibly give. "I want to be a photographer not to make money, but to show others the world as I see it in all its beauty, layers and depth".

When I look at the world around me I am entranced by what I see, it is as if I am seeing it in layers. I see the flower, the ground around the flower, the sky above the flower, the road behind the flower, the hills behind the flower, the house on the hill; you see where I'm going with this.

There is absolute beauty in everything I see and I feel so lucky to be alive to witness it. I used to be on of those people that went to work, came home, made dinner, gave the kids a bath, said a bedtime story and then got up and did it all over again. I did this for years not realizing what I had been missing out on. I had no idea what was passing me by.

So many people live this life now, unaware of what they have around them. Unaware that they have control of their life and all around them. Oblivious to the fact that the Earth is alive, it is a living, breathing organism. It grows, it sheds, it shakes, it trembles, it cries and it gets furious. We trample upon it without a care in the world, much as some treat those around them in their lives.

When my husband died, it devastated me and still affects me but I was given a gift after he passed, the gift of "awareness". It hit me thought that I have always had that gift. When I was growing up I would rebel against certain people not because maybe what they did so much as what I read in them. I knew how they felt about me. I knew they did not want me around, I felt their feelings about me and it hurt so I rebelled.

Even now, I know when someone is not being real with me. If you think for one minute that I am fooled into believing everything I have been told or shown, you're crazy. The problem with me is that I tend to ignore things because the soft-heart that I have firmly believes the good in everyone. There is always a positive and a negative so I sometimes tend to ignore the obvious negative in favor of the positive. Keep that in mind when dealing with me, I pay attention to all the little details and am smarter that may be believed. LOL!

So stop what you're doing, get out of your rut and find your way back to the true way of life and live it. Live it, don't plan it.

Quote by Lisa McClung 2/23/11

2011-02-23T20:16:00.001-08:00

"Not everyone is going to like what you do or say, but life is short so who cares".

Sad

2011-02-22T19:48:00.000-08:00

Why can't someone just be sad sometimes, you know? Sometimes you just get sad; bad day, missing someone, wishing for something more in a relationship; wanting more in life. Why can't we just have just a short while of feeling sad? Is it possible to be positive all the time? No it is not. You can not have happy without sad, good without evil; you get my drift.

Oh no for putting you're "sad" on your status, you get all sorts of responses without positive affirmations. For once I would just like someone to say, "I'm sad a little too". Just once in awhile admit to the feelings you have instead of trying to portray an image to your family and friends. The fear of judgment causes people to stray from what they really want to say.

There is one thing that I do not like, the intuition I feel. It is apparent to me when someone is not being truthful with me and I wish they were. I can sense when someone is holding back from me. You can not hide how you feel about me because I am aware. If any of you are on my Facebook you will notice that I put sometimes "I am aware", it is because I am. I know who is going to go or stay in my life and sometimes that is a hindrance. Is it better to be blissfully ignorant? In some instances no but in the matters of the heart, it is good practice to be "aware". It is also good practice so you do not fall victim to someone in a random act of crime.

Anyway, I just wanted to vent a little bit about being sad. So what. I'm happy most of the time, I'll be sad sometimes if I feel like it. I tell you what though, it does not keep me down for long.

Forgive Yourself

2011-02-20T18:57:00.000-08:00

If you do something that makes you feel bad, or say something stupid, brush yourself off and forgive yourself, we all do and say things sometimes without thinking. If you forgive yourself first and you learn from your mistake, then you have grown another step towards your spiritual growth.

2/20/11

2011-02-20T17:46:00.000-08:00

From Wild beauty

Humanity, much like the wild trees and cacti that are rampant in Arizona, are sometimes untamable. Sometimes we let nature take its course, when it shouldn't. Sometimes we grow wild and free, with no constraints. This may not be the way for humanity but it happens. We all have done something or said something that makes us feel bad about who we are, and that is good; we should feel bad. The trick, forgive yourself and do not let yourself feel badly for too long. If you do, it will eat at you until you come down on yourself. Forgive yourself and you will be set free, do not make the same mistakes over and over.

Let your soul and mind be free but self-control is the key.

Hollywood 2/19/11

2011-02-20T14:21:00.000-08:00

Driving down the 101 freeway taking in the architectural sweetness of Los Angeles, I wonder at the creative geniuses behind the construction of these buildings. Sure L.A. is overcrowded, crime ridden and the traffic is horrible, but do the people living there ever take the time to look around them? Good and bad lives all around us, little cities as well as big cities. There are some amazingly beautiful structures, apartments and houses there. One of the things I have always appreciated about L.A. and Hollywood is its creativity; in dress, people and buildings. So much character to be found in that one place than in any other place that I have been.

Now I live in a small town, not always so. New York, Florida to Los Angeles; I've lived. I have also lived in the mountains and desert so what I have come to appreciate is what all these places have to offer. Now that I have begun photography as a profession, the apparent beauty of the world around me is obvious. Truly I can appreciate how lucky I am to be to alive to witness the beauty this world has to offer.

Walking around in Hollywood, going to the clubs and watching bands play live was also a thrill. The people in Hollywood are as interesting as the structures around them. Various shapes, sizes and modes of dress, all appealing and unique. Everyone is under the assumption that people in big cities are rude, not the ones who are out for culture and the true appreciation of music. Not once did I feel out of place or like I was less than they were, I held my head high and smiled at those around, instantly feeling a kinship with them. Lucky I was to have had a great guy show me the way around and introduce me to the "Rock star" life, even if only for a night.

So as I wound down for the night with a bright smile on my face, I will remember my great tour guide and night in the bright lights of Hollywood....be back soon.

February 2011 Images from Alamo Lake

2011-02-18T14:51:00.000-08:00

Alamo Lake

2011-02-18T14:41:00.001-08:00

What can I say, this place is pretty tranquil and interesting in its remoteness. Walking through the hills and taking in the scenery around me, the quietness and total serenity took me away from this crazy life for a time. Getting stuck in prickly bushes and falling down on my backside in mud did nothing to deter my complete fascination with the world around me as I was viewing it.

The sky endless in beauty, the air was sweet and the company even sweeter. At night as I lie in the tent nestled next to masculine warmth, I could hear the howling of the coyotes as they sang their little song. Waking up to birds singing, sun rising and wind whistling through the tent and the trees, it was just a wonderful feeling.

I am thankful and happy in my life right now.

Can you See?

2011-02-07T21:28:00.000-08:00

Your grasp upon reality,
is but your perception on reality.
What is true and what is not?
Can you see behind the clock?
Can you see what is awaiting?
Or do you meander around in this world?
Letting others take you by the strings,
and placing you where they want you to be.
Time to cut the strings of life and set yourself free.
The day is drawing near when all will be revealed,
open up your eyes and you can see what is and what
is not real.
Don't let it consume you, don't let it douse your flame.
See what I see and you'll realize its not all in vain.
Sanity and insanity is what they do see,
tranquil your life will be if you just listen...and see.

by Lisa McClung 2/7/11 10:31pm

Life's Tree

2011-02-07T21:18:00.001-08:00

Too much going on,
feel like I'm losing my mind
everything seems so out of line.
Waiting for the day when I can be just me,
time needs to just set me free.
Contemplating what's real or not,
there needs to be a stopper for this watch.
Living each day and accepting what's real,
leaves me sometimes cold and unable to feel.
Is it easier to live alone then to feel an emotion,
for someone other than yourself sets things in motion.
Reaching around to shake of life's tree,
finding the one the could be meant for me.
Easy to access the nature of this situation,
life is too short for mistakes and complications.
So for now I just take the river where it leads,
because someday soon life will show me what I need.

by Lisa McClung 2/7/11 @ 10:20pm

Cold, Bitter Wind

2011-02-02T21:58:00.000-08:00

Today was probably one of the coldest days that I have felt since we moved to Arizona in 2007. This morning upon awakening and starting my day, the temperature was a chilly 16 degrees. Unbearably cold and viciously windy, that is what today was. Sitting in my room trying to stay warm with the group of kids who had to serve their detention, I contemplated moving to an area where it might just be a tad bit warmer. The reality is that everyone is cold right now, this is a really bad storm and has impacted the mid-west with tons of snow, as well as back East.

I long for the days of summer with the sun basking me in it warm glow. The heat is not something I mind because the freedom summer provides, is worth the heat it brings. Bare feet, ice cold drinks, swimming, hiking, shorts and tank tops, flips flops and iced teas. Yummy lattes, watermelon, picnics and animal gazing. Summer, it is my favorite time of year.

2/2/11 @ 11:02am.

Good night all!

Sweet Baby Girl

2011-01-27T21:17:00.000-08:00

We took you in our arms when you were born,
our sweet baby girl so cuddly and warm.
Sweet innocent eyes so vibrant and alive,
your sweet baby smile took us by surprise.
Our love for you was immediate upon birth,
surely we were the luckiest parents on Earth.
Watching you grown each day and year,
sometimes we'd worry and sometimes we'd fear.
On to high school and two proud parents we be,
you tried out for swimming and made the team.
Vibrant, alive and sweet as can be,
our sweet baby girl who was just sixteen.
Never in a million years we expected what came,
a morning in our lives and nothing will be the same.
Tragedy struck and you were taken from our lives,
our hearts torn from our bodies and our eyes they did cry.
Our sweet baby girl into this Earth you were born,
our grief knows no bounds and lives have been torn.
And then it was heard from the Heaven's up high,
a message sent from our Lord on the winds of a sigh.
"Fear not Dear Ones for you shall see",
"Always will Allissa be with all of thee".
When you listen to the wind and close your eyes,
always will you hear your sweet baby girls sighs.

by Lisa McClung

Love is Gone

2011-01-27T21:13:00.000-08:00

A light, gentle breeze against her face,
a whisper, a movement frozen in time and space.
Visions of love reaching out with open arms,
embracing his love and keeping her warm.

Is this real? Is he really here?
She reaches out with hesitant fear.
The cloud evaporates and awake she becomes,
it was but a dream ad her love is gone.

By Lisa McClung 2007

Spiraling

2011-01-27T21:11:00.001-08:00

Pathway to destruction,
stairway to fear.
Which way to go,
both seem a dead end.
Endless drowning of emotions,
fears of the unknown.
Spiraling out-of-control,
None seem to notice.
No one to to turn to,
understand won't be found.
Letting loose of pent-up emotions,
set into motion all those months ago.

by Lisa McClung 2007

Spirit

2011-01-27T21:10:00.001-08:00

Your spirit will die,
if you do not live.
Your spirit will not survive,
if you have nothing to give.
Your mind ceases to be alive,
if your spirit dies.

1/26/11 Blog

2011-01-27T14:55:00.000-08:00

After dealing with a student today with the mouth of a sailor, I am no longer uncertain as to why I am no longer going to be here in my position at work. Where is the time when ladies were ladies and gentleman were gentlmean. Nowadays, man has no respect for woman but then again, woman has no respect for herself. It seems that society has allowed a certain tolerance towards what is acceptable and what is not. For all our "politically correct" phrases and terminology, I think we have actually succeeded in taking a step backwards towards civility and mannerisms, we are reverting back to teh stone age. The age where everyone yelled and banged their chests with tehir fists, much like the cursing and screaming going on in today's society and our violent tendencies.

Techologically advanced you say? All we have succeeded in creating is techology that does everything but wipe our noses and tuck us in at night, but we'll be there someday. Everything is man made, clothing, food, medicines. If we had to make it on our own and have to survive, we could not. We get our clothing from stores as well as our food, we wouldn't last 2-days without today's modern conveniences. What would happen if a real emergency happened? We'd be screwed, that's what woudl happen. Out gluttony has pushed us to the point that our foods and have to be chemically processed so that the population can be fed because we are expanding both numerically and physically.

Shots, medications and diagnosis of illnesses is another peeve of mine. Why does everything have to be diagnosed as needing medication or antibiotics? At the rate we're going, our own defenses wont' be able to fight off the common cold anymore. Everything is "anti-bacterial", well all that succeeds in doing is killing off the bad germs as well as the good germs that fight off the bad germs. A cold is a cold, make your kid drink water and take in some Vitamin C, he'll survive. And what is with flu shots? Why would anyone in their right mind want to put a live virus into their body? Who makes this shot? The government? Oh yea, I trust them. They're probably the ones who put out the flu in the first place, ever hear of population control? Due to the advances we have been making in curing cancers, illnesses, we are keeping our people alive longer and well, population overgrowth.

2011-01-21T19:00:00.000-08:00

Me!! What can I say about who I am. I am a mom, and a good one at that. I am an independent woman. A photographer and spiritualist. I chase after no one and only give my heart to those deserving to have it. I will tell you as it is and if you don't like it, I don't care. Besides my children, photography and Taekwondo are my passion. Hiking, swimming and exploring are awesome things to do and I intend to do all. I lost a husband and was devastated, but came back strong. I was screwed over royally by someone who I thought cared, but I am strong. If I like you, you will know. I hold back nothing of myself but expect the same and if you can't give it, find somewhere else to go because I don't have time for 1/2 of you. Horror movies aren't my favorite but comedies are.

Live music is great, but will settle for my iPod and dancing around my house with my kids. Poetry and songwriter relieve the pent-up emotions that I may have in life. I get up on Saturday mornings and sometimes we get into my car and we just drive, sometimes I don't get out of my pajamas. I don't like meat, so what. I don't gamble, smoke or drink and I don't do drugs. If you talk too much I may shut down on you, lol. Not too fond of boating but will go along with anything to visit with friends and family.

I'm passionate, loving, spiritual, easy going, fun, talkative, emotional, energetic and sometimes I can be annoying, so what....I am me.

The Night

2011-01-20T15:07:00.000-08:00

Gazing relentlessly into the soul
of the one who has none.
Searing eyes meld into the night
of the one who he seeks.
Darkness and light intermingle
as the sky turns blood red.
Footsteps behind almost like a drum beat
pouding into the pavement as he seeks.
What does he seek this angel of night,
with those searing eyes and relentless smile?
The souls of those less fortunate?
The souls of those with the white light?
Sun rises and the shadows disappear.
Was it a shadow?
An illusion?
A crazed mind?
As the sun rises into the sky
brilliant warm rays of light glow.
We are reminded again of the one..
with the searing eyes
relentless smile...
and footsteps...our imagination or the night seeking us?

by Lisa McClung 1/20/11

Sighs

2011-01-18T15:05:00.001-08:00

Silky warm embrace,
bodies blending, face to face.
Echoing sighs of contentment,
melding together in passion.
Steel meets satin,
a sheen of perspiration.
Deep voices, soft sighs,
pounding hearts, bodies tight.
Low chuckle, quiet giggle,
no control of the blending of bodies.

The Wall

2011-01-18T14:58:00.001-08:00

Shrouded in its protective embrace,
the wall surrounds her keeping her safe.
Sunlight pours through the jagged cracks,
trying to break in and bring her back.
Back to a place where laughter was carefree,
friendship and love were given freely.
Back to a place where people did commit,
just enjoying life and reaping its benefits.
Reveling in time with lover or a friend,
drinking of life's fruit and just going with the wind.
Not wanting to fully trust in the safety outside,
she stays inside and lets the world pass her by.

1/18/11

January 4, 2011

2011-01-04T05:29:00.000-08:00

Not much sleep last night due to my inability to shut down my brain, it happens. Tonight after a few games of "Just Dance" with my girls and some quiet reading time, I will attempt to get to bed at a reasonable hour, a woman does need her beauty sleep after all.

Today is Tuesday and it is the second day back to work after a wonderful 2-week Christmas holiday and my kids and I really were happy, the first time we really were so since my husband died 4 years ago. So, this I am grateful for.

Well anyways, back to trying to get a couple of exhausted children out of bed, they're not morning people like me, and listen to them complain about how cold and tired they are. Then its a mad dash to get dressed, eat, hair combed and out the door so I am not late to work. Still I am smiling, just as I always do. :) :) :) :) Plus, a certain handsome gentleman friend does that to me. Have a great day.

New Pictures added

2011-01-03T16:45:00.001-08:00

Portraits

January 3, 2011

2011-01-03T05:11:00.000-08:00

Well, the holidays passed and Iwas pleasantly surprised that I was only sad a couple of times while watching my girls. It has been almost 4 1/2 years since their Dad died and this is the first year that I have actually enjoyed Christmas and New Years. Very happy about that. Time does help when losing a loved one and if I had known what I know now, I could of saved myself some money and heartache but I learned some valuable lessons. I am a better person overall and the guy I meet, he will like this me.

Speaking of guys, there is someone that I have met but I know from experience to just enjoy the time together and take each day, you never know so just go with the flow. Follow the river per say. There is no rush but I do have to say he is pretty cute, funny and has a lot of the same interests that I have, feeling some butterflies. That is a good thing, LOL!

Today is the first day back to school after having 2-weeks off and I am not exactly thrilled to be going back, but I am staying positive. 2011 is going to be a good year and this is the year of manifestations so, I am manifesting abundance, love, happiness and peace.

Snow is on ground so I had better get off and get my children up so I can get them school, have a fabulous day.

November 1, 2010 -- My thoughts for today

2010-11-01T21:54:00.000-07:00

It is abundately apparent that today's society allows our children to engage in behaviors that not 30 years ago would of been allowed. When is it ok to curse at a teacher in school? When is it ok to allow kids the choice to go to school? When is it ok to allow parents to get away with neglecting their children? It is almost a fine line. Society has given us CPS and it has been abused. God fearing people are afraid to discipline their kids for fear of retribution, while the ones who are really doing the damage are let loose or go unnoticed.

When is it ok to sag your pants past your butt and show your undewear? When were little girls allowed to wear revealing, low cut tops and shirts? Do you notice that alot of our children have been labeled "biopolar", "ADHD", "ADD", "Emotionally disturbed?" The only thing "disturbing about these labels are those who place them. Granted there are some who do have these emotional disturbances, alot are unwarranted. A good old-fashioned butt-whooping would of taken care of any of that in an instant. Oh no though, we get told we can't discipline our children or they will be taken from us.

How often does a gentleman hold the door for a lady? A better question, what is a lady in today's society? I will tell you this, I bet our definition of a lady and gentleman has changed. I bet you that today's definition of a lady and gentleman differ from days of past. Where is the chivalry? Where are the manners? Where is the elegance and proper etiquette? Where is the love?

August 30, 2010

2010-08-30T22:32:00.000-07:00

Been a busy, busy time since we got back from New York. Samantha going to college, Megan starting middle school and Krissy in 4th grade. On top of that, I have been doing photo shoots non-stop since I got back. I am not complaining at all, just really busy.

I learned a lot while I was in New York; taking care of business. That is what I have been doing since we got back, taking care of business; finances, personal, etc. One more order of business to get my back child support and I should be golden.

Facebook is getting a bit old, as Myspace did. It is a great place for connecting with family, friends and other photographers. It is still basically a gathering ground and is prone to boredom as with any other social type site, still I do love it. Yet, I find myself wandering away from those pages to my own domain where I hope to tell it as it is. Speak my mind. Share my photos.

Well, I am off to bed because I really am exhausted. Knowing I have much more to accomplish, along with a stay positive attitude, sleep should be good tonight.

Good night all!

New Your Final Update

2010-08-05T22:38:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, I am weeks late in updating you on the final days of my New York visit. It pretty much was a mellow last days with my girls and we did quite a bit of walking. Walking to the beach, walking to the store, walking to get pizza and finally, walking around in the Big Apple. That's right, we headed out to New York City Sunday, July 18th. Talk about fun!!! Whoooo!

Boarding the train from Staten Island was as usual fun and entertaining with some loud, obnoxious man talking so loudly on his cell phone that I almost turned all hostile on him. I wanted to jump out of my seat and beat him. Seriously, I wanted to....no joke. Anyways, we boarded the ferry to New York City and watched the sights on the way. Helicopters flying around, barges heading in different directions, almost hitting a sailboat...oh yea, didn't hear that one did you? We're on the ferry heading towards port when this sailboat aims a course right at us, a big ferry. I'm thinking that this is going to be one of those ferry sinking disasters or my kids have to see a sight they shouldn't. He fortunately moved out of the way but did cut it quite close, our ferry honked at him for quite awhile.

We get off and walked to the subway station to take a subway, that's how you do New York. We ended up in Times Square. It was amazing fun. Going to the enourmous M&M Store, Hershey's store and the three-story Toys R' Us store with the ferris wheel inside. Got to see Central Park and ate at Sbarros Pizza. In Califoria Sbarro is a mall thing but in New York, it was a gourmet thing. I loved it and so did my girls. By the time we got home, we were exhausted. Done with the walking thing for sure.

Then the hard part, saying goodbye to family. My dad had left the day before and I was still saddened by his departure. Now, back to our life we went. Missing my family and New York. See you next year!

Day 5 - New York

2010-07-11T20:23:00.000-07:00

What a site I came downstairs for today, a procession of motorcyles in front of my Aunt's house coming from the main street, hundreds of them. I couldn't grab my camera fast enough to capture what I was sure some type of major event or funeral procession. Come to find out, the procession was for a fallen comrade, a New York motorcycle officer. The whole story is not available to me at this point but I am most interested in finding out the story behind these hundreds of people honoring this officer. The pictures are posted on my Facebook for those who would like a glimpse of what I saw. It made me feel wonderful inside because for all of everyone's "New York is crazy, the people are rude, its dirty...blah, blah..blah..., these people here in this big City really mourn and mourn big. They honor their lost. They show respect for a fallen comrade, family member, etc. I am honored to have been born here and can call this my home town, even if I do live on the East coast.

It was a very mellow day today and I liked it that way, especially after that amazing party yesterday. The girls swam with their cousin and a young friend across the street. It was a beautiful day and we just enjoyed it and relaxed. My dad and I went to the beach about twilight and walked on the boardwalk.

It is a surreal feeling for me to have my father at my side seeing how I never got to really have relationship with him but you know what, we are making up for lost time this week. It is as if the years have melted away, peeling back the years and fusing together what was lost in one week. The sense of loss I felt my growing years is gone and a sweet, warm feeling has replaced it. This is such a blessing to have come here and reconnected with my dad, I am a lucky woman to have had that chance to do that, it is never too late to do that.

Day 4 - New York

2010-07-10T20:35:00.000-07:00

What a busy, busy day filled with music, food, family and fun. The party Aunt Mary and Uncle Nicky threw was the biggest one yet. We had eggplant parmasagn, pasta chicken marsala, artichoke salad, london broil, lemon chicken and many other mouth-watering dishes that I never have. The DJ rolled in around 2:15pm and got this party started with some dance music, hip/hop, remixes and let me tell you, it was great. This is the same DJ Aunt Mary had from last year, he is amazing. What I enjoyed the most, besides my family all dancing and having a good time, was watching my daughter Megan come out of her shell and dance away....it was awesome. Made me proud and happy for her.

There was musical chairs for the kids, and the adults. The adults are just a bit more rough than the kids. Last year, we had them fighting for the chairs and yanking them out from under each other, LOL! Alas, it was extremely fun to watch. I can say that I really enjoyed myself and am glad that I had the chance to come to New York and do this again. I feel blessed.

I am off to bed, my stomach is way too full and tomorrow I am walking with the kids to the beach. It is a long walk for them but it will be good for us to get out some and exercise off today's yummy array of foods and drinks.

Hugs to all!

Day 3 - New York

2010-07-09T20:29:00.000-07:00

The girl's and I got up a little bit earlier than we normally do, getting used to this New York time difference. Not too much going on today, did some shopping with Debbie and Ceil. We tried to find Kohl's, let me tell you that was funny. Lost?? Oh yea, but not too badly we ended up finding it. Staten Island drivers are a bit nutty. After we left Kohl's we went to the Staten Island mall, boy Kingman is lacking in that department.

After we got back the girls and I went to the grocery store so Sam could make her famous lemon bars and brownies. She was supposed to make some butterscotch cookies but with no central heat, this kitchen got hot really fast. So, we're saving those for another day.

As always, great visiting with the family and my dad. :-)

Good night, tired and thinking about my doggies at home.

Day 2 - New York

2010-07-08T20:08:00.000-07:00

Today I was a little bit jet lagged so not a whole lot was done or seen, just a bit tired. The girl's swam and played and I kinda just sat around with my Dad for awhile. Towards late afternoon though, I really started to perk up. My Dad took me, Megan, Kristen and Alex to the beach so we could walk on the pier and boardwalk. Not a whole lot like the California beaches but very nice none-the-less. I have never seen my Dad so relaxed and enjoying the air. We watched a guy pull in a fish, that was kinda gross. I do not think that I will be attempting to fish anytime soon.

The girls had finished up the ice cream Dad had gotten for them and were ready to go. So we walked a bit and then I let the girls go on the beach but no one was on the beach really, red flags everywhere. I am not exactly sure what the flags meant but with the lack of people on the beach, I could only assume it was not safe to be out near the water let alone in it. Regardless, the quality time that I have been getting with my dad is great. We could be in a dump for all I cared, we get to hang out while I am her. Loving it!

Now I am off to bed............

Day 1 - New York

2010-07-07T21:29:00.000-07:00

Up at 4:00am we were and none-too-happy about the early wake up but excited about the day. We ended up out of the room before it was time to catch our shuttle bus from the hotel to the airport. We get to American Airlines station for departure and I was amazed at the mass chaos that early in the mornings, and it is about 5:30am. Again, way too early for us night owls. LOL!

I had already printed out my boarding passes so all we had to check in was Samantha's luggage, since she couldn't bear to have anything smaller than the monstrous bag she had to carry her clothes. Teenagers, sheesh! So there we were with 2 hours to kill. We walked around checking things out, grabbing a Starbucks and sausage/egg muffins for breakfast.

We walked to American Airlines check in and I get informed I can't have my Starbucks and I was like "what, I have to dump my Starbucks?" I was outraged to say the least so in record time, I consumed my overly hot Starbucks before checking in. Off go the tennis shoes, my camera bag and our cases and we're through.

Boarding was easy and the plane ride uneventful and boring, just the way I like it. The kids all colored while I unsuccessfully tried to sleep in a space made for someone even smaller than me, at least that is what it felt like.

Then we landed at JFK and what a mad house that place is, but we landed safe and I was grateful to God and our Angels for getting us there safely. We head outside to catch a cab and this guy approaches me, "hey, you looking for a cab?" I say "yea, you got one?" LOL! So secretive you would thing he was trying to sell me some contraband or something. All the way on the cab ride to my Aunt's me and Charlie chatted about everything, that is the name of my new little friend....hehehe. "Charlie", as he calls himself, seems to have lived quite the colorful life. Beat in India at a school, attended a boarding school, extremely intelligent, lives in New Hyde Park but yet he drives a cab. For all his board school education the best he can do is be a cab driver? Oh well, education doesn't matter if that's what he wanted to be, kudo's to him.

We get to my Aunt's house and it is all hush-hush because my dad is here and he does not know we're coming. To say he was shocked was an understatement, I didn't know what to make of his expression when we walked in but his hug was priceless. All the years of missing him went away in that one sweet, long hug of happiness. I was in my daddy's arms.

We spent time the rest of the evening with dinner and a long walk with my dad to the beach. Life is grand.

Good night and talk to you guys tomorrow!

The Night Before New York

2010-07-06T21:24:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we drove from Kingman to a hotel in Las Vegas to start our journey to New York. The drive was pretty amazing barely any traffic over the Hoover Dam, unlike last year's 2 hour drive just to get to the Hoover Dam, arrggghhh! The girls and I stopped off at In n' Out for some dinner and left to go to our hotel, well Sam left her purse at In n' Out, arggggghhh again! We drove back and thankfully and elderly couple took the purse to the front and saved us from having a miserable trip because her purse had her iPod, camera, id, etc. Teens without their gear spells "miserable"...LOL!

We checked into our rather cheesy and not entirely nice hotel, but it was a good place for my car to stay the 2-weeks while in New York so I suffered through the ickiness of this place. The girls and I spent the rest of the night coloring and watching TV and ended up going to bed about 9:30. For the next hour we listened to a very loud and obnoxious child in the next room scream and band on the walls. Not being able to stand it any longer, I punched my headboard against the wall and the annoying child seemed to have stopped her bothersome tirade.

Off to slumber land.

Why?

2010-06-17T18:12:00.000-07:00

Since I started trying to break into the photography business a year and a half ago, I have learned quite a bit in that short of time. Most of my studying has remained on lighting and composition. There are nights that I am up until midnight look through photographs of others, reading and studying the books that I have gotten to help me get a better of understanding of photography.

Photography is not just about picking up a camera and shooting. I upgraded from my Canon 30D to the 50D because I felt that I was ready to take the next step without putting myself ahead of my experience. Never would I assume that I am better than I am because someone else has said so. I am a good judge of skill of me and I know when I am ready to move on. I have had such tremendous support, compliments, encouragement and advice from friends, family, acquaintances and such that I am very humbled. To you guys, I appreciate you more than you know.

There is always someone that is going to critique your work and not like it. How you handle the criticism is a reflection of you. There are those out there who choose to give their critique without the consideration and respect of common courtesy.

I look at life with eyes wide open; set on the goal in finding the beauty in everything. The box is not something I want to be stuck in, so I prefer to think outside of the box. Sometimes my theories, comments and pictures make people wonder what I was striving for, its all about the art people.

Lately I have been asked why I do not charge more. I have been asked why I do not make this a full-time profession. The reason that I keep my prices the way they do is because not everyone has the money to afford good family, senior or wedding photos. Not everyone has the money to pay $300, $400, $800 for a wedding. Does that mean they are sacrificing quality by going with me? No, it means that they are getting a chance to get the pictures they desire.

This past year, I had seniors come up to me last minute wishing they had money for senior pictures. My mind skimmed back to my senior year when everyone was getting a yearbook, senior pictures, class rings, letterman's jackets, etc. and I was too poor and unable to fund such memorable events. It does my heart good to hear the heartfelt thanks of those teenagers as I hand them their senior pictures. Just remember, sometimes you do not get what you pay for and sometimes pay to much for what you get.

Why do I not make this full-time? The reason is that I want to keep it as something that I enjoy, something that provides me as much pleasure as the person receiving their photos. I hope that my photos will inspire someone, help someone see the beauty in themselves and show others the world in a different way than they perceive it.

Hugs!

My take on "Dear John"

2010-06-12T00:56:00.000-07:00

While some did not appreciate or like "Dear John", I for one appreciate the complexity of emotions and relationships that were portrayed in the movie. The love between John and Savannah transgressed time and another relationship, it was hauntingly sad and beautifully hopeful at the same time. John's relationship with his father was heartfelt and this part of the movie really spoke volumes to me. For those wishing to watch a movie with a emotional depth, love, saddness and inspiration, watch "Dear John

Portraits

2010-06-11T21:50:00.000-07:00

Here are just a few pictures of my latest photo shoot of Ms. J's children. They were wonderful to work with and I enjoyed taking their photos.

2010-05-16T15:53:00.000-07:00

Frenchman on Stilts

Driving down Route 66 towards Yucca Valley bored out of my mind and annoyed because my children were arguing. Wanting to rip out my hair out at this point I glanced ahead of me and I saw something I never thought I would see, a man walking on the side of the road on stilts. Ah, a good reason to pull over therefore stopping the squabbling behind me.

I pull out my camera, which was right next to me actually, and I get out and ask if I can take pictures. I take a few shots of him and one of my girls. Come to find out, he is from France and is just walking down Route 66. So here are some pictures that I took and information on his Blog so you can check out what exactly he is doing.

www.echassier.unblog.fr

Darkened Soul

2010-04-28T21:53:00.000-07:00

The darkness that I see inside of him.
a dark angel bringing him down to the
bowels of his soul.

Unsure of what to do and how to handle life,
his words of darkness and his thoughts,
project the pain and misery of a darkened soul.

Full of heartfelt pain, he lingers on the dark side.
Hoping that there will be a light bringing him up
from the hell he has created in his mind.

The light shines, but he does not take its hand.
Instead, he burrows in his darkened state of misery,
refusing to take a stand.

by Lisa McClung 2/25/08

My youngest turns "9"

2010-04-28T16:54:00.000-07:00

Today is my youngest daughter's birthday and she is 9 years old! Sigh! Love her!

2010-04-28T11:44:00.000-07:00

Lisa McClung Photography

This is still one of my favorite light photographs. This photo was taken through a double thick glass window. Such an art piece and that is why I post it everywhere!

Beauty and the Dentist

2010-04-28T11:17:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time there was a little princess named Megan. Megan had an appointment one day to take 9 teeth out, nooooooooooo! Well, the princess made her appointment this morning at an early 7:00am and was none too thrilled upon awakening. Have you ever tried to carry your loopy child to the car when she is almost your size? It is a very hard task to do but to my shock and surprise, the tiny little dental assistant just lifted her up and carried her out the door to my car, and she is smaller than me.

She made it through the oral surgery fine but the first 3 hours after were pretty rough on her. Much to the little princess' dismay, she was not allowed the normal foods she usually does. For now, she is eating lukewarm mashed potatoes and cold spaghettio's...LOL! Now, she is on her way to the next phase of her teeth beautification process, braces. For now, I am off to care for a very cranky 11 year old with sore gums. Talk to everyone soon!

Good Evening Everyone!

2010-04-27T22:48:00.000-07:00

At the suggestion of a friend of mine, I am restarting my blog. This is the same blog that I had started a few years back when my husband died and it was filled with different memories, pictures, poems, songs and fun. It is my regret that I deleted everything due to an incident with a negative energy person in my life. This person infiltrated his way into my heart and mind causing me to become someone who I was not, I in turn reacted in a way that turned my world upside down. Now, I am in full control of who I am and am a stronger person because of it.

It is my hope that when you read this blog, which I hope that some do, you get a better understanding of who I am and what I feel about who we are. If that confuses you, do not worry about it because if you open up your heart and mind all your questions about life will be answered.

My passion, besides my children, are my spirituality, photography and martial arts. This blog will take you through the world of just one woman and her life as she sees it. I hope that you will continued to read this, if not I hope that my writings here will somehow find its way to those that it seeks.

Welcome and let's begin this journey!