Schoolio's Favorite Photos

Lovin' it

2012-02-10T23:19:00.001-08:00

Lovin' it, a photo by schoolio on Flickr.

Bouncin' his way down the inflated slide and he couldn't be happier.

The Mouse

2011-11-01T21:22:00.001-07:00

The Mouse, a photo by schoolio on Flickr.

Whenever he wants to watch, color a picture of, or be Mickey Mouse, he puts it simply: "The Mouse."

The Mouse took a party break so that he could throw a few wood chips. Good times.

Bringing the "T" game*

2011-10-04T22:07:00.001-07:00

Bringing the "T" game*, a photo by schoolio on Flickr.

*T is for Toddler

Mr. (zebra) Ed

2011-09-11T21:02:00.001-07:00

Mr. (zebra) Ed, a photo by schoolio on Flickr.

Up close and personal with a zebra at the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch outside of San Antonio, Texas.

Riding the big rigs

2011-07-17T21:02:00.001-07:00

Riding the big rigs, a photo by schoolio on Flickr.

Driving the Big Rigs at the Mall of America.

Gotta keep those hands on the wheel at all times. Well, except for honking the horn.

Just checking to see how sad I am

2011-07-11T19:57:00.001-07:00

Just checking to see how sad I am, a photo by schoolio on Flickr.

Sometimes a guy is sad but it helps to be able to check a mirror, just to be sure.

Hammock encounter of the first time

2011-06-06T11:36:00.001-07:00

Hammock encounter of the first kind, a photo by schoolio on Flickr.

Roman's first swing in the hammock.

Nothing like summertime...

Beach baby

2011-02-09T20:06:00.001-08:00

Beach baby, originally uploaded by schoolio.

First time at the ocean - couldn't be more excited.

Watching the "big" kids

2011-02-09T19:59:00.001-08:00

Watching the "big" kids, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Taking a break from sledding and keeping an eye on what the "big" kids are doing.

So much to learn.

Delighted by the branches green

2010-12-18T21:34:00.001-08:00

Delighted by the branches green, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Our modest tannenbaum's #1 fan.

To us, it's a small tree, easy to defend from an ambitious one-year-old. To him, it's a thing of beauty.

Relief

2010-10-20T20:38:00.001-07:00

Relief, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Chicken pox struck before we could get Roman immunized.

Baking soda baths offers brief moments of escape and through it all, he kept trying to smile. Resilient little guy.

Baby's got a brand new hat

2010-07-16T00:09:00.001-07:00

Baby's got a brand new hat, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Roman as he is sportin' his new hat on a nice night at the park.

He's not real keen on hats but he tolerates them as long as there are plenty of other distractions. Fortunately, the park is full of 'em.

Chillin', chillin', mindin' my business

2010-05-29T00:58:00.001-07:00

Chillin', chillin', mindin' my business, originally uploaded by schoolio.

A pleasant frog took a break from his swimming expedition to pose for me.

I'll post a few more from the "photoshoot" but this one makes me grin.

End of the shoot

2010-04-22T19:08:00.001-07:00

End of the shoot, originally uploaded by schoolio.

A fun shot at the end of the Quinceañera photoshoot.

Safe in mom's arms (52SYL Week 15)

2010-04-05T20:05:00.001-07:00

Safe in mom's arms (52SYL Week 15), originally uploaded by schoolio.

We were taking care of my brother's parrot, Betty, when she let out a series of loud squawks that caught Roman off guard. It was his first time hearing a parrot squawk and if you've ever heard it, you'd understand.

Safe in his mom's arms, he gradually came around and was just fine.

What was that, Mom? (52SYL Week 14)

2010-04-04T16:49:00.001-07:00

What was that, Mom? (52SYL Week 14), originally uploaded by schoolio.

Tummy time is getting more and more fun for everyone. Holding his head up is a start (no small feat with those chubby cheeks) and now there's even time to look around and say hi to Mom.

She's his inspiration.

I thought we were alone (52SYL Week 11)

2010-03-12T05:47:00.001-08:00

I thought we were alone (52SYL Week 11), originally uploaded by schoolio.

Just starting to love his baths and so wrapped up in the moment that when I appeared with the camera, it caught him off guard.

Communication (52SYL Week 10)

2010-03-11T14:14:00.001-08:00

Communication (52SYL Week 10), originally uploaded by schoolio.

He doesn't need to talk to communicate.

We got the message loud and clear.

Heart warmer (aka contributing to global warming) (52SYL Week 8)

2010-02-19T23:15:00.001-08:00

Heart warmer (aka contributing to global warming) (52SYL Week 8), originally uploaded by schoolio.

Our little heart warmer.

Makes winter much more tolerable.

Hiding out in the hoarfrost

2010-02-16T22:47:00.001-08:00

Hiding out in the hoarfrost, originally uploaded by schoolio.

I just love when we get a crack at some hoarfrost. We had a busy morning planned but Melissa encouraged me to get out the door and catch the hoarfrost before it disappeared - good call.

This was her fave. The frost was just perfect and I liked discovering the little pine cone that's been hiding out since last fall. Hang in there li'l buddy - spring is just around the corner!

Mom's kisses make me happy (52SYL Week 7)

2010-02-13T20:03:00.001-08:00

Mom's kisses make me happy (52SYL Week 7), originally uploaded by schoolio.

If you ever wanted to see a snapshot of the love shared between a mother and her son, I think this is it.

After a nice winter walk, Roman and Melissa shared a moment of snuggles, kisses, and laughter. Who says infants and winter don't mix?

Thrilled!

2010-02-13T20:01:00.001-08:00

Thrilled!, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Who could not love this expression?!?!?!?

The boy loves his planes

2010-01-09T23:14:00.001-08:00

The boy loves his planes (52SYL Week 2), originally uploaded by schoolio.

Roman just loves his airplane mobile and I'll confess - we do our best to take advantage of it.

At times, a 5-minute diaper change can turn into a 20-minute break for mom or dad. Sometimes with the gentle cooing as well - fun for everyone!

Winter warrior

2009-12-30T08:11:00.001-08:00

Winter warrior, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Our little guy isn't afraid of the cold. He *hates* it but he'll take it on as long as he's in his bundle and wearing a good cap.

Introducing Roman

2009-12-21T23:19:00.001-08:00

Introducing Roman, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Introducing our son. This photo was a true family effort:

I set up the equipment,
Melissa composed the shot,
I held Roman,
Roman discovered his muse (he's a feisty one), and
Melissa took the picture.

So happy together.

Stretched

2009-11-16T11:58:00.001-08:00

Stretched (52SYL Week 44), originally uploaded by schoolio.

Each week brings a little more stretching, a little more discomfort and a little bit closer to a newborn baby.

The countdown would be on if only we knew the starting number...

Ninth month (52SYL Week 42)

2009-10-27T15:44:00.001-07:00

Ninth month (52SYL Week 42), originally uploaded by schoolio.

Lots of baby-preppin' going on, not the least of which is getting the "studio" ready. An inexpensive backdrop and playing with the lighting to figure out the best way to capture the newborn - and his mama. 42 weeks into the year and she's still a willing participant of the 52 Weeks photo exhibit - bless her heart

Not going down without a fight

2009-10-27T15:42:00.001-07:00

Not going down without a fight, originally uploaded by schoolio.

A simple little shot from our babymoon, I admire the defiance and fight in this guy (or gal) on the shore of Lake Superior.

Introspection (52SYL Week 40)

2009-10-08T16:51:00.001-07:00

Introspection (52SYL Week 40), originally uploaded by schoolio.

This week, a return to the simpler world of black and white.

I'm not sure what is more tiring for her: the pregnancy or my weekly requests for pictures. :) Soon enough, there'll be a new subject to close out the year.

It's been quite a year, and the fun has just begun.

On the cusp of fall - and family (52SYL Week 36)

2009-09-11T14:25:00.001-07:00

On the cusp of fall - and family (52SYL Week 36), originally uploaded by schoolio.

Change is in the air!

I'm having so much fun with poses and processing - I feel like it's more fun than the law allows

Takin' junior for a swim (52SYL Week 35)

2009-09-10T07:35:00.001-07:00

Takin' junior for a swim (52SYL Week 35), originally uploaded by schoolio.

A hot day in Austin called for a quick dip in the pool. Well, it was mostly for show - the water felt too cold when compared with the heat. Thankfully, my model continues to humor me.

Amazing technicolor dress

2009-09-03T10:13:00.001-07:00

Amazing technicolor dress, originally uploaded by schoolio.

My first attempt at an HDR version of the original photo Mission San José. I didn't shoot it with bracketed exposure (as I think is best?) but faked it after the fact with the exposure pushed up and down, just to play.

I've got your love (and chicken salad) to keep me warm

2009-08-12T15:32:00.001-07:00

I've got your love (and chicken salad) to keep me warm, originally uploaded by schoolio.

I was enjoying a delicious lunch made by the love of my life when I suddenly became sad... summer is nearly over. I plan to use this picture sometime in February to get me through to next summer. :)

P.S. Delicious is an understatement.

Baby on board (52SYL Week 20)

2009-05-26T19:53:00.001-07:00

Baby on board (52SYL Week 20), originally uploaded by schoolio.

I could not have picked a better year for 52 Weeks of Someone You Love (52SYL). :)

Our adventure begins...

(p.s. - it's Week 20 of the 52 Weeks series, not week 20 of the pregnancy. :)

Our future

2009-05-20T22:37:00.001-07:00

Our future, originally uploaded by schoolio.

We caught a glimpse of our future - an elderly couple walking the streets of Siena, Italy.

Guess who got new boots?

2009-05-06T14:52:00.001-07:00

Guess who got new boots? (52SYL Week 18), originally uploaded by schoolio.

One more picture from our honeymoon and one of my favorites.

After a brief rain, Melissa could hardly wait to try out her new boots and I could hardly wait to get a picture. She looked all Audrey Hepburn-y in her black outfit and brown boots - absolutely adorable and giddy in Florence.

The Negative Space of Winter

2009-03-23T13:26:00.001-07:00

52SYL Week 8, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Week 8 of 52 Weeks of Someone You Love.

Just when we thought the snow was behind us, a few more inches dropped. Naturally, I had to make the most of it so I coaxed my subject into posing in a way to capture the snow and play with the negative space. She continues to indulge my creative quest and I'm thankful for it.

Strike a pose, there's nothin' to it

2009-03-01T19:48:00.001-08:00

Strike a pose, there's nothin' to it, originally uploaded by schoolio.

During a quick trip to the Minnesota zoo, this little guy (gal?) paused on its journey to pose for me.

Lucky, me.

NYC - Central Park

2009-02-21T14:43:00.001-08:00

NYC - Central Park, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Catching up on some old photos...

During our minimoon in September, 2008, , we took a long stroll through Central Park. I'm unsure of the name of this bridge area, but the architecture was fantastic and the lighting was perfect.

Rapscallion

2008-10-08T13:11:00.001-07:00

Rapscallion, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Of course, the moment we put some pumpkins on the front step to celebrate the wonderful feelings of fall, the scoundrels arrive.

If you look closely, on the large pumpkin, you can see that this one was returning to the scene of the crime to resume the devastation. Fresh pumpkin for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I'll post an "after" picture - pumpkins... destroyed.

Mildly amused

2008-05-24T08:37:00.001-07:00

Mildly amused, originally uploaded by schoolio.

He brought out the .

She saw the show and said "meh... I've seen better."

Who says it's a man's world? Maybe, but certainly not without exception.

Unexpected guest

2008-05-22T11:22:00.001-07:00

Unexpected guest, originally uploaded by schoolio.

While visiting the Schell's brewery in New Ulm, MN, we ran across this guy who was strutting about for his lady friend.

And as vibrant and alert as he appears, he was nearly falling asleep when we arrived. A few minutes later, lights out. I can only imagine the effort it takes to put on a show like this.

Chinese dolls

2008-03-23T07:01:00.001-07:00

Chinese dolls, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Our friend, Anne, has spent a significant amount of her recent past teaching English in China. She's now teaching in the U.S. but on a recent visit, a friend of hers presented her with these two Chinese dolls.

They were wonderfully cooperative during this brief photo shoot. :)

Magical moment

2007-12-20T01:31:00.001-08:00

Magical moment, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Let me share a little about why this picture is so meaningful to me:

I was driving out from my home town to a city over 100 miles away to conduct a training session for a software product I helped develop and now market and sell. I wasn't happy about having to take a 2+ hour trip (each way!) but the product is warmly embraced by our customers and, well, sometimes it's nice to be away from the office. As long as I was going away, I though - why not bring the camera? I'm happy I did.

As I left town, I began to notice the wonderful hoarfrost we had encountered a few days ago; however, unlike the last event, this one was even more spectacular because it was accompanied by an intense fog and cool temperatures which helped maintain the frost. Over an hour into my journey, I began to photograph trees, railroads, fields, and everything else that caught my eye and for which I had time to stop. Suddenly, I came upon this scene. Let me tell you how this played out:

I noticed the horses as they were grazing in the field, immediately slammed on my brakes, and turned around in the farmer's drive. As I turned around, their dog came running out with a bark, ready to greet me, and the farmer stopped to observe the commotion I'd created. With a quick wave to the farmer to indicate I'd be on my way, I pulled back onto the shoulder but stopped to get a closer look at the horses and the scene. I exited my car, walked to the edge of the shoulder, and took aim. Just as I did, this lovely horse stopped grazing, looked up at me, and posed. I couldn't believe it but then again, I seem to have inherited a bit of the "Grizzly Adams" effect my father possess. My father has an inane connection with all animals and I have just enough of that to capture certain animals' attention. This was one of those moments when it all came together for me - the right place, the right time, the right equipment, and the right, Grizzly Adams Effect - I couldn't be happier.

I hope you enjoy the photo.

Tuckered out

2007-12-05T21:25:00.001-08:00

Tuckered out, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Marty is the newest addition to my extended family. He was a pleasure to meet and I look forward to playing with him again. I think we wore him out, though - he had reached his kitty limit. I was left with just two words:

Marty.

Spent.

Sonoma private drive

2007-11-15T08:50:00.001-08:00

Sonoma private drive, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Heading back to our place after yet another wonderful day in Sonoma, we ran across this driveway. Absolutely stunning.

There's a gate in front of it but for an enterprising photographer, pushing the lens through a section of the gate is a perfectly acceptable thing to do.

Pickin' time at Foppiano

2007-11-14T08:31:00.001-08:00

Pickin' time at Foppiano, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Another of my favorites from Sonoma, CA.

I like the way the grapes are just packed into the bunches. The colors... the full, ripe, juicy bunches... somebody needs to do some pickin'.

Foppiano fall harvest

2007-11-13T14:40:00.001-08:00

Foppiano fall harvest, originally uploaded by schoolio.

One of my favorite grape shots from our recent trip to Sonoma, CA.

All the signs are there: it's harvest time at Foppiano.

The vines of St. Francis

2007-10-19T07:09:00.001-07:00

The vines of St. Francis, originally uploaded by schoolio.

One of our many stops took place at St. Francis, a quiet and charming winery and vineyard.

Ledson grapes

2007-10-17T07:36:00.001-07:00

Ledson grapes, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Fall harvest time in Sonoma, CA. We arrived just in time to catch the grapes, and the colors, at their fullest.

Attitude

2007-08-27T05:27:00.001-07:00

Attitude, originally uploaded by schoolio.

She wasn't really upset but determined to let us know she wasn't happy with the situation. I found her tucked away in a corner and I couldn't believe the expression! After a brief laugh, we took her very seriously.

Kids!

No peeking

2007-07-23T22:17:00.001-07:00

No peeking, originally uploaded by schoolio.

A quick, cute moment in the pre-ceremony photo session. Lots of fun.

Not through with you

2007-07-20T05:21:00.001-07:00

Not through with you, originally uploaded by schoolio.

His shoes were long gone and he was wiped out.

She was just getting warmed up.

Flower girls--what are you going to do?

Jeff and Sandy married on 07/07/07 and held the wonderful reception which prompted happy scenes such as this. Congratulations and best wishes for a long and joyous union.

Downtown reflections

2007-07-02T15:01:00.001-07:00

Downtown reflections, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Some time ago, a friend asked me to photograph an interesting building near his home in downtown, Minneapolis. Of particular interest to him is an old, sagging smokestack at the rear of the building. I was having a hard time finding a good angle and I'll post a few of the shots I took but I found my favorite perspective when I turned around and saw its reflection in the building across the street.

It's nice to just turn around and bam! - it's there.

Stand out from the crowd

2007-06-28T17:58:00.001-07:00

Stand out from the crowd, originally uploaded by schoolio.

A backyard bouquet helped to set the mood for the purple-themed wedding shower. One little girl poked up just enough to catch the last sunrays of the afternoon.

Congratulations, Jeff & Sandy!

Defiant

2007-06-21T02:36:00.001-07:00

Defiant, originally uploaded by schoolio.

In (what seemed like) hours after I mowed the lawn, this guy appeared.

How?!?!?

2007-06-17T20:43:00.001-07:00

Serenity, originally uploaded by schoolio.

A lone bench along the Highway 101 south of Cannon Beach, Oregon.

The driving rain made it difficult to scatter Julie's ashes on the beach but we did our best and we were heading back to the hotel when we ran across this scene. I couldn't get out of the car to get a great shot but I think it captured the emotions we all felt.

I also haven't posted photos for several month but I have been shooting and will try to catch up. Lots of fun - just need to find the time to get caught up.

Billy

2007-02-05T10:00:00.001-08:00

Billy, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Old school Fisher Price.

I loved the wear and tear on the girl's face and that somewhere, some time ago, some boy made sure that everyone knew this mail truck belonged to Billy.

Daydreamus interruptus

2007-02-03T09:10:00.001-08:00

Daydreamus interruptus, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Melissa was enjoying the Willamette River view from the balcony when I caught her attention in a rare candid.

A natural beauty.

Willamette snowfall landscape

2007-02-01T10:52:00.001-08:00

Willamette snowfall landscape, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Snowfall is (apparently) very unusual in Portland, Oregon, so I was fortunate to be there when it happened.

One day, it's a beautiful sunrise on the Willamette and the next day, snow and fog. Two beautiful scenes on back-to-back days.

Hoodie

2007-01-30T09:31:00.001-08:00

Hoodie, originally uploaded by schoolio.

A view of Mt. Hood from the Chart House restaurant in Portland, OR.

The air wasn't crystal clear but the view was still breathtaking, majestic, and beautiful.

Fakeout berry

2007-01-29T10:24:00.001-08:00

Fakeout berry, originally uploaded by schoolio.

While on a recent trip to Portland, OR, my eye caught this berry. I thought by some miracle, it had survived the unusual snowfall and enterprising animals but upon closer examination, I found it to be fake. You can see some manufacturing details in the large view.

I was bummed but on second thought, something like this would probably only survive if it were highly radioactive. :)

Love me as I am

2007-01-26T12:46:00.001-08:00

Love me as I am, originally uploaded by schoolio.

The first part of the winter offered little snow but some enterprising (young?) person wasn't to be deterred. Scraping up enough snow and debris to make a snowperson, the finishing touches included sticks for arms and a planter for the hat. I'm not sure if it was intended to be a cyclops, but I like the look. Kind of a Stygian Witch without ownership of the eye. :) The full figure is nice.

I could almost hear the plea, "I was born this way - love me as I am."

Santa Julie

2007-01-22T22:02:00.001-08:00

Santa Julie, originally uploaded by schoolio.

I always liked this portrait of Julie in her santa hat. She wore it at Christmas as a replacement for the head scarves she typically wore. The chemotherapy had made most of her hair fall out.

On Saturday, January 13, 2007, we lost my sister-in-law, Julie. Despite her assertions to the contrary, I witnessed a brave battle against cancer that included chemotherapy, acupuncture, lifestyle changes, and a hardened mental fortitude. She was a wonderful part of my life and will be missed.

Rest in peace, Julie.

Persistence

2007-01-02T09:41:00.001-08:00

Persistence, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Just in time for New Year's Eve, it finally snowed enough and was cold enough for snow to stick and I (naturally) ran out with my camera and tripod to capture the moment.

I discovered this little guy and liked "never say die" attitude.

Happy New Year!!!

Jingle bell Christmas

2006-12-28T20:56:00.001-08:00

Jingle bell Christmas, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Jingle bells served as ornaments, napkin rings, and gifts for our guests. Way to stretch the decorating dollar, eh? Bonus: they jingled quite nicely!

Happy holidays and Merry Christmas!!!

Stille Nacht Heilige Nacht

2006-12-27T19:42:00.001-08:00

Stille Nacht Heilige Nacht, originally uploaded by schoolio.

A small ornament from this year's tree that I picked up when I was in Munich, Germany in 2005. It's simple but I love it. Some day, hopefully soon, I'll post photos from the trip. Bavaria is beautiful.

Ich kaufte diese Verzierung in München 2005. Eines Tages, hoffe ich, meine Fotos von der Reise zu hochladen. Bayern ist schön.

Time to practice my German. :)

Safe until spring

2006-12-20T06:20:00.000-08:00

Safe until spring, originally uploaded by schoolio.

like this one because of the circumstance: this little girl was smart enough to wait until the pond froze before falling from the tree.

She's safe until spring.

The last of my favorites from the morning fog pics.

Foggy dew

2006-12-19T08:25:00.000-08:00

Foggy dew, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Part of the morning fog sequence. Just a few drops of dew on the branches to show that it's been unseasonably warm this winter - barely dropping below freezing overnight. The fog offered a wonderfully mysterious backdrop.

'twas a foggy morning on Browndale...

2006-12-15T05:31:00.000-08:00

'twas a foggy morning on Browndale..., originally uploaded by schoolio.

On my way to work, the fog was intriguing and I had to seek out a spot to best view the atypical weather. The pond near Browndale Park (Edina) offered a great view of the fog over the creek.

How fun for me. :)

Giving thanks

2006-12-13T09:08:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving, originally uploaded by schoolio.

The table was set for this year's Thanksgiving dinner. A lovely setting, a house full of friends and family, and dinner was delicious but my favorite part was this little leaf. For me, the calm before the storm and a reminder of the fall colors we won't see for some time as well as a time to reflect and truly give thanks for the life I have.

Next stop: Christmas.

2006-12-10T18:53:00.000-08:00

Codey, originally uploaded by schoolio.

I was asked to take some Christmas family photos for a friend, her boyfriend, and their three cats. Mixed success with the family photo - I think it's a challenge for anyone to get three cats to pose and look in the same direction without active coercion. After the shoot, however, I followed the cats around to get some candids - my favorite part.

This one is Codey, brother of Pharoah and Bogie. I'll try to find photos of them but I really liked this one.

Hokeypokeyphobia

2006-12-03T18:35:00.000-08:00

Hokeypokeyphobia, originally uploaded by schoolio.

This little girl, the designated bumblebee at the wedding reception, pondered an important decision: should I, or should I not enter into the wedding madness known as The Hokey Pokey. I've witnessed it and I think her fears were justified.

Madness. Pure madness. :)

Wedding callas

2006-12-02T11:14:00.000-08:00

Wedding callas, originally uploaded by schoolio.

A simple lily display at the wedding reception. I didn't attend the wedding so I can't speak for that, but the reception was interesting. It was held in a school gymnasium, decorated mostly for the entertainment of children with paper and crayons on all the tables, and a disco ball/dj up front to keep the party moving. They also had buckets of candy around because it was just prior to Halloween and everyone was encouraged to wear their Halloween costume. In the midst of this all was a simple calla lily display. I couldn't resist it.

'tis the season

2006-11-30T21:02:00.000-08:00

'tis the season, originally uploaded by schoolio.

It's never too early to start preparing for Christmas and this is the first shot of many, many Christmas ornaments. I'm looking forward to picking up on Christmas again after taking last year off and I've got the perfect person in my life to help me out.

Let it be Christmas.

Train-eye view

2006-11-21T05:36:00.000-08:00

Train-eye view, originally uploaded by schoolio.

A two-year-old's birthday is an occasion to remember, but mostly for the parents. :) It was a pleasure to attend Conner's 2nd birthday party and I couldn't help but drop down to the floor and catch a shot of Conner playing with his new favorite toys from the Thomas the Train set. I'm sure sure which is Thomas and which is Harold (Connor surely knows) but it was fun nonetheless.

Happy birthday, little guy.

All ears

2006-10-29T05:58:00.000-08:00

All ears, originally uploaded by schoolio.

An attentive pup at Dogtoberfest, 2006, hosted by UrbAnimal. I love the profile shots but it's such a challenge to get them to look at me for more than .18 seconds. Until I get faster, the off-camera shot will have to suffice.

Fashionable min pin

2006-10-24T17:07:00.000-07:00

Fashionable min pin, originally uploaded by schoolio.

A touch of class in the costume event at Dogtoberfest, 2006.

Miniature Pinscher, dressed to the nines.

Glance

2006-10-23T10:20:00.000-07:00

Glance, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Luc, the infamous Red Cavalier, was snuggled in his mom's arms and gave me a quick sideways glance during Dogtoberfest. I had already photographed Luc with his mom so I'm sure he was wondering why I'm still hanging around. All he wanted to do was nap and get away from all the madness. Such character. :)

Braveheart

2006-10-22T00:55:00.000-07:00

Braveheart, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Hanging out at UrbAnimal for Dogtoberfest, 2006, the place was wall-to-wall dogs. Mostly German breeds but all dogs welcome. :) Dogs here, dogs there, a few puppies and kittens up for adoption and then I spied this little guy. A black cat hanging out amidst hundreds of dogs.

Oh, but he handled it well

The giving tree

2006-10-20T16:41:00.000-07:00

The giving tree, originally uploaded by schoolio.

A rescue dog, this gal had produced many litters for a puppy mill before she was about to be destroyed. She has had a tough life yet kindly posed for me during Dogtoberfest, 2006. Her owner, also aging gracefully, held her close.

That was one of the most touching moments of my day. I chatted with this woman and found out that this sweet little girl was about to be destroyed when this woman rescued her. They both have health issues but together, they're growing old, sharing their lives, and loving one another.

A beautiful dog, a wonderful story, and quite a nice little lady.

TJ & Sara

2006-10-19T06:14:00.000-07:00

TJ & Sara, originally uploaded by schoolio.

A quick pic of aunt Sara and little TJ at Wade & Lisa's couples' shower.

Seasons change

2006-10-16T09:55:00.000-07:00

Seasons change, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Fall colors in Minnesota. A beautiful reminder of one of the biggest reasons I live here.

(insert audible sigh here)

A beautiful morning

2006-10-15T20:36:00.000-07:00

A beautiful morning, originally uploaded by schoolio.

A week in Florida and every morning I slept in - it was a vacation, after all. Well, every morning except the last. That morning, I arose early and ran out to the beach to make my best attempt and sunrise photos. Everyone else does it - why not me?

I managed to catch a few Hollywood Beach sunrise shots. This is one of my favorites. Absolutely breathtaking.

Sunrise gull

2006-10-14T22:57:00.000-07:00

Sunrise gull, originally uploaded by schoolio.

This gull had my attention. It was trying to pick up something that was obviously too big to pick up, but didn't give up. Eventually, it got the attention of other gulls who wanted to get the thing from this gull, probably for no reason other than the intention of this gull. This gull would then pick it up, fly a few feet away, and try again to pick up and fly off with said thing. No luck. Repeat about twenty times.

Ah - the life of a gull.

The beach says, "come hither"

2006-10-12T07:25:00.000-07:00

The beach says, "come hither", originally uploaded by schoolio.

We had arrived in Florida from Minnesota and what?!? No sunglasses. Not that important back home, critical here. A quick trip to Publix and we were set with some cheap sunglasses.

The next day, Melissa headed down to the ERE conference and I slept in and offered to meet her for lunch. I probably should've checked the distance first but I thought "How bad can it be? It's sunny, warm - a walk down the beach would be nice." I left the comfort of the Marriott and headed down the beach toward the Westin.

A while later, I stopped because I thought: did I miss it? I pulled out the Blackberry, pulled up Google Maps, and check - nope, still have 2 miles to go!!! Dang. I only had a 1/2 hour to make it too so I picked up the pace and didn't really think about the fact that it's 90 degrees and humid. Two miles later, I found myself sitting with Melissa at one of the Westin Diplomat Resort bar/restaurants. After a delightful mandarin/cranberry and a light ahi tuna salad, I caught a glimpse of where we should go next - back to the beach! Well, maybe later. Let's shuttle back to our hotel first and change into something more fitting for the weather - swimsuit!

Hollywood, Florida. Sunglasses required.

Lickin' his chops

2006-10-03T14:05:00.000-07:00

Lickin' his chops, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Another shot of the local critters. This little sparrow must've been eyeing our appetizers. :) I must say, the seared ahi tuna was delicious - I can hardly blame the guy.

Ocean reflection

2006-10-03T13:27:00.000-07:00

Ocean reflection, originally uploaded by schoolio.

A candid moment on the ocean in Hollywood, Florida. The day was overcast and windy but despite the conditions, the ocean felt about a million miles from Minnesota and a pleasure.

September, 2006.

Beach blues

2006-09-27T21:18:00.000-07:00

Beach blues, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Not the blues but a few, fun, blue things on the beach.

Hollywood, Florida.

Sun. Fun. Beaches. Week-long vacation. What could be better?

Coats of many colors

2006-09-25T07:31:00.000-07:00

Coats of many colors, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Lots of colors and styles available at the China Treasures area of the ailing Midtown Global Market.

I linked a slideshow of the wares for the couple who owns the store. They have just opened up and are having difficulty generating traffic and purchasers - I wish them good luck.

Breaks my heart

2006-09-24T21:04:00.000-07:00

Breaks my heart, originally uploaded by schoolio.

I spent a few days at a software conference in Madison, Wi. Madison is the capitol of Wisconsin and perhaps I was naive, but I was surprised by the number of homeless people living on the square that surrounds the capitol building. Most were men so this woman caught my attention.

I usually feel morally forbidden from photographing homeless or more generally, people who aren't aware they're being photographed and consent, but I made an exception this time. This is as it was shot - the borders were from the wall/barriers between which I shot.

I had just spent a week on vacation in Florida. Maybe it's that or maybe it was the human tragedy before my eyes, probably both, but this scene broke my heart.

Lily on the lake

2006-09-14T10:17:00.000-07:00

Lily on the lake, originally uploaded by schoolio.

I was piloting the boat on Lake Shamineau when someone mentioned that a nearby inlet has lily pads, lilies, and quiet, still water. Aha! A perfect chance for photos, non?

I steered the boat through a shallow entrance into the inlet and began snapping away at the flowers and plants in the inlet. Once my boating/shooting began to make the others nervous, they took the wheel and I focused on photos. :) I had to lean over the boat a bit near the water for some of the shots but eventually got the hang of it (no pun intended) and caught this one. I like the way it turned out.

Shiny

2006-09-13T07:46:00.000-07:00

Shiny, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Houston, we have floors. Never mind the fact that baseboards are not yet on and that the doors still need trim and weather seal following the adjustment (we had to raise it 3/4" to accommodate the new floor thickness) - a remodeling quantum leap has been taken. The floors are a pleasure to look at and walk upon.

But it's the shine that gets me. I love it.

Princess Kay... in butter

2006-09-08T06:18:00.000-07:00

Princess Kay... in butter, originally uploaded by schoolio.

For the past 53 years at the Minnesota State Fair, the Midwest Dairy Association has sponsored a pageant titled "Princess Kay of the Milky Way (Minnesota)." This year, Audrey Mohr was crowned princess of the Princess Kay of the Milky Way. This is her likeness carved from a 90-pound block of butter. The full bust looks something like this.

Note the uncarved block in the back. Throughout the Fair, the finalists take turns sitting in the refrigerated case for several hours as their likeness is carved in butter. At the end of the Fair, the winner, Princess Kay, gets to take her bust home. I don't want to know what she does with it and I'm okay with that. :)

Update: I've been informed that it's a 90 pound block of Grade A butter and all contestants get to take home their sculptures. Lucky ladies.

Sleepy foal

2006-09-06T10:22:00.000-07:00

Sleepy foal, originally uploaded by schoolio.

This little guy put up with some petting for a while but eventually turned away from all the attention to get some sleep.

A beautiful creature at the Minnesota State Fair.

Not so sure

2006-09-04T19:40:00.000-07:00

Not so sure, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Kailee had doubts about milking the kids' cow at the MN State Fair. She eventually squeezed out a bit of "milk."

Orange

2006-08-28T14:45:00.000-07:00

Orange, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Date night in orange. :) I went to the florist for something different and came away with this - a single-color arrangement inspired by the Barefoot Contessa herself, Ina Garten. What can I say? All the remodeling has inspired a lot of HGTV viewing.

Anyway, I don't know that I'd ever do it again, but it was fun to try. And very orange.

29-1/2

2006-08-23T08:08:00.000-07:00

29-1/2, originally uploaded by schoolio.

The 2006 White Castle Crave Challenge. The challenge? Eat as many of the 30-burger Crave Case as you can in 60 minutes.

As time ran out, Jeff closed out the event just shy of a full case. 1/2 burger short as shown here. He still won with a sizable margin (I think #2 finished 24-1/2) but next year, 30.

For what it's worth, he had two practice days:

Friday: 22 burgers
Saturday: 27 burgers

Wow. And he's not a huge guy, either. You can tell by the smile that he was happy and full. Still chewing, as a matter of fact.

Next year, Jeff. Next year. :)

Burpin' Griffin

2006-08-22T19:20:00.000-07:00

Burpin' Griffin, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Only a month old, little Griffin was quite a trooper at Guys Night Out. The night was beautiful so we sat outside as he put down six ounces of formula. It was two burps and nearly three hours before he was tired enough to nod off. An amazing little guy.

A shame it's a little blurred. :(

Inner diva

2006-08-21T07:13:00.000-07:00

Inner diva, originally uploaded by schoolio.

Anne is leaving again to teach English in China for the next nine months. I don't have many pictures of her and Anne's a bit camera shy so I challenged her to be herself for a photo. Turns out, Anne's a diva. :)

Good times. We'll miss Anne when she's in China.