halloween 2011

fifty two on friday ~ week 42 (dark)

I did not sign up to participate in the circle this week because as of 5 pm Thursday I did not have an image for the week. The theme "dark" just wasn't working for me.

Since it is Friday I have to post something. I love this picture I took of Leah today. I originally converted to black and white to try and stick with a dark theme but I felt like it was a stretch. Also it is hard to convert images of her sometimes because I think she has the most gorgeous blue eyes.

fifty two on friday ~ week 41 (looking in)

There is not much sweeter than looking in on two kids sleeping soundly. I have no idea what I do wrong but it can be quite a feat around here to make that happen. Anyone with a 4 & 3 year old out there that wants to give me some tips I am all ears.

Now let's head on over and see what the adorable and talented Misty Setzler, Lubbock, Tx Photographer has in store for us this week!

By the way, all my Bloom pals if you have not done so yet you should really head over and check out The Savvy Photographer Site. They have some serious eye candy and inspiration going on over there for photographers. Even wannabes like me ; ) This past week they have been showcasing photographers with studio tours. Nothing short of amazing!

Also, their shop has the cutest card and canvas templates around. Not to mention the barnwood floors...swoon. I have been addicted to following their sister  Daily Savvy Steal site. If you have not yet, check them out now because you are missing out. Sign up to follow via email. You will not regret it!

fifty two on friday ~ week 40 (play)

I love to watch and listen to Leah play on her own, she has quite the imagination. It is a rare moment to see her sitting still. In fact her preschool progress report came home this week and she got all plus marks except she needs to work on sitting still during circle time. That does not surprise me one bit.

During her "alone" time she does a lot of talking and there are many friends with her. She has two friends at preschool, Bella and Kate and she always pretends that they are there with her. I love to see and listen to where her adventures take her.

Please head on over and visit the lovely and talented Amy Craft, San Antonio Texas Photographer too!

fifty two on friday ~ week 39 (autumn)

Food photographer I am not but this soup is so amazing and I just had to share the recipe with my friends. Jordan thought I fed him pure gold and was in absolute heaven. Leah not so much because she is just like her Daddy and is not a veggie or really even a soup kind of girl. It is the perfect Autumn soup, super easy to make and really filling. 

1 Tbs. olive oil

1/2 cup chopped carrot

1/2 cup chopped celery

1/3 cup chopped onion

1 1/2 lb butternut squash, peeled, seeded and cut into1 inch cubes

2 medium apples, cored, cut into 1/2 inch pieces ( I used honey crisp, could use any thin skin like golden delicious or gala)

4 cups low sodium chicken broth

*** I also added 1/4 cup heavy cream which is totally unnecessary 

ground pepper & salt to taste

croutons

1. In large pot heat oil over medium heat. Add carrot, celery and onion. Cook, stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes or until tender and starting to brown. Add squash, apple and broth (and cream if you are going to add that). Bring to boil. Reduce heat. Simmer uncovered for 20 minutes or until squash is tender. Cool slightly. 

2. Puree the soup in a blender. Season to taste and serve topped with croutons. Makes 4 - 6 servings. 

Enjoy!

If you try it let me know what you think. If you have any simple, great recipes I would love it if you sent them my way!

Now lets head on over and check out what the super talented Amanda Jouppi, Chippewa Falls Photographer has come up for this weeks theme!