as we begin breathing love into the lens

Soon my play date beings with one of the the sweetest. and most charming, artist.
We will begin breathing love, into the lens. I can't wait. Wink ; )
It would mean the world to me, if you came to visit us later in the week.
Happy day!
One love~
; )

yellow

It's was the pop of color against that glorious concrete, that made me forget, I was on my way somewhere. The yellow stopped me in my tracks, and made me sigh. ; )
Happy day!

sunday

this sunday is beautiful and lazy. a perfect day to have the windows open, eat here and there off a bamboo board. and read a dreamy, book. oh, and a little peter gabriel in the background, doesn't hurt. ; )
shh... i am dreaming of working with one of my favorite artist, later in the week. the thought of this play date, makes me want to reach my palms toward the sky, until i feel clouds. stay tuned. ; )

Summer has arrived~

Happy Sunday!
: )

5 questions and many words

The talented, Julochka handed me these 5 questions. I love that.

1. when they make the movie of your life, who will play you?
Jill Scott~ For many reasons, but mostly because of her full figure and her rocking afro. ; )
2. you seem so totally cool, what made you decide to home school?
I think Julochka wanted me to bold type the word, cool. ; )
Well, both my husband and I had private school educations. We watched our parents work over time, and take extra jobs just to pay the tuition. As students we also had to work small jobs, at the school to help out. This is common for many students and parents. We find nothing wrong with hard work, but we knew that we didn't want to struggle like this, to get our kids this type of education. And the public school system, wasn't an option. So that's where I came in...
The mama who rocks an afro, converse sneakers each day and feels Bob Marley and the Wailers, should be an available major, at all universities. Nice huh? ; )
I do take this position seriously though. I have rules that must be followed, in my classroom/kitchen table. ; )

*No swearing unless you can give me the definition of the word, the origin, spell it and use it in a proper sentence. I got that from the smart kids, in the spelling bee. Ha!
*No sleeping in class, but if it should occur, give me a good 15 minutes and wake me gently.
*Cutting the lawn during "recess", is SO a class!

Honestly, if there was a national homeschooling society thingy, that was mandatory, we would have long been kicked out. ; )
Give us credit though... We give a great effort with interacting, with other hs. Like the time we drove to no mans land, for a hs basketball tournament. Being the only black family at the event, didn't matter one bit to us. Everyone was friendly and welcomed us with open arms. Until oh... I wanna say, about 3 minutes into the game. My son (who thinks he is Michael Jordan) strips the ball from a frail young man on the opposing team- slams the ball into the net, hangs from the rim and shouts "that's called making it rain, homeboy!!!!!" ------------------------ Silence, dead silence.
You could have heard a pin drop in that gym. Everyone in the bleachers looked at me and my husband. Thank goodness the ref blew his whistle. I truly beleive that whistle, took the attention off of us.
The whole 2 and a half hour drive back to the hood, my husband sang the tune of "the sh*it is not that serious son," In our sons defense, he made friends for life from that tourney, he is testing at a 10th grade level and he is only 14. My daughter who is quite a bit less vocal, is 12 and tests at a 9th grade level. Which is so cool, because people say things to me like- "you must be doing something right Christina." Score!

3. if there was one thing you thought the world should know, what would it be?
That it is cool to interact with people that don't look just like you and me. Yep! Looks are deceiving. Our plumber (who is at our home often) has 2 degrees and sings at a local opera club. He just loves to "tinker" with copper piping. I dig that. I have smiled at people in my neighborhood and handed out balloons for no reason at all. It's as though for a moment, the hardest face can soften just by a random act of friendliness. I love seeing that happen.

4. who is your favorite muppet?
That would be kermit! Kermit is my favorite!! He had mad game. You remember the way Miss. Piggy was always, after him? No one could ever player hate, on Kermit. ; )

5. if you could go to one museum in the world and have a whole day in it, all to yourself (or with only the people of your choice), which one would it be? and who, if anyone, would you take with you?
I would love to go to the Gordon Parks center for cultural diversity.
Inviting Tara is a must, because she is the one who told me about it.
Hubby~ because he would love to drive to Kansas.
My kids because they appreciate photography... and carry my camera when it gets too heavy, for me.
I am deeply in love, with what Gordon Parks saw through his lens. It makes me want to cry just thinking of it.

Thank you, Julochka! Larry King has nothing on you.
; )

the everyday

I am in a strange place, as far as photography goes. It just seems the everyday, is easing into my lens, more and more. And I kind of love that. The everyday is what I think I will appreciate looking back on, when I'm older. ; )
The other day my tough love photography mentor, gave me a lesson to do on my own. He called yesterday to see if I had any luck, with the assignment. Not exactly I explained. But...
i ran through the sprinkler with the kids
got a picture of my daughter next to a flower that a few years ago she could barely reach
combed through my afro so we could play "afro samurai"
played sizzla on volume 12
blew bubbles
and could of swore i got 3 feet of water splash in the water balloon slam
(the neighborhood kids beg to differ) ; )
He just laughed and said-" email me the picture and turn that damn music down"
lol
; )

i dream through fences with wings

The beautiful Susanna sent me her winged messengers, a while ago. I have carried them around hoping to find a beautiful place to release them; allow them to fly. I have taken them out of my backpack, as I swayed back and forth on the train, heading home, waiting patiently and dreaming of just the right spot to free them.

Have I ever told you there is a foster home/school, not too far from where I live? Each time I pass this home filled with children, I say a prayer for them. Inside my heart breaks, I want to hug each one of them, and tell them... it will get better, don't give up.

Ironically there is a construction site (across the way) where there are beautiful lofts being built. Homes.

I noticed the open staircase from a distance... through the fence. The sun danced on the steps and called my name, at the same time. I listened. I turned the wings toward the foster home play ground, with hope that each child will dream big, be blessed and occasionally notice this same sunset, that called my name.

The wings read~ "tell your dreams to someone" Thank you, Susanna. You are talented beyond words. xo

I hung these worded wings, for the unsung heros...

the neighborhood
hoop dreams
peace
the rap lyrics scribbled on a note pad
poetry
the good
the book that may change a life
hope
prayers
; )

“Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase.”
Martin Luther King, Jr.

hold your hands out

hands dig as deep as they can
fingers scramble
pockets holding only traces of lint
i push past it life is good
hurry up hold your hands out
here it comes!!!
there it goes!!!
is it going to burn my hands you ask
my heart comes apart 'cause your feeling the moment...
the beauty
the sun
the magic
what's real
; )

All photos sooc. I dig that!
Have a beautiful day!

and there was cake too

Yesterday we had a graduation party for my son. Geesh, he is on his way to 9th grade in the fall. ; ) We also made it a special day for all the wonderful fathers, in the family. It was good to see family and friends gather; hear a few accents of home. Wink
; )

I have to admit. I was tender. You know that spot, right inside the heart, where you miss someone? The feeling where you feel like you have packed everything in your car for the picnic, but you keep sensing you forgot something? You know, something is missing... someone is missing. I miss him, so much.

As I watched all the kids play, I knew it was that part of the celebration that kept me afloat. Watching my husband gather the children for a water balloon toss, that positively had my eyes brimming, with tears.

There were a few question for my son about homeschooling, ect. He answered with a smile; basketball in hand, sneakers untied, blue tongue, from popsicles "My mom taught me how to read, how to count, to pray and who Fredrick Douglas was... along with lots of other stuff too. I like the art of Francis Bacon and Kadinsky. No one besides my dad, has ever cut my hair. I think that is cool! And Bob Marley, is the boss! Can we cut the cake now?"

I think I love that.

Happy Monday, my friends.

Mosaic monday is being held at mary's place. ; )

; )

"Let's do it again"

the simple things are what make me smile the most...

when i am walking in the cool rain, and there is that cozy spot in my scarf that smells like my home. bliss

the perfect margarita~ heavy on the triple sec, salt and limes. ; )

having my window open and watching the curtains blow, from a gentle breeze.

panzanella~ the perfect season to grill the bread outside.

the perfect shade of pink.

enjoying breakfast, for dinner. ; )

having paper towels in the house.

Peace~

Won't you join me on july 8th, in sharing the simple things that make you happy?
Remember, there are no rules. I will post more details as the date approaches.
Here is the post from the last simple things play date. : ) More than 45 blogs came together for a day and posted honest, grateful, fun simple things.
Uhem... 45 blogs? That puts a lump in my throat, just typing those words. How lovely.
It would warm my heart, if you played along.
xo

the sweetest

Despite the severe rain storms we had last night, a few of the bbq grills are going strong throughout the neighborhood, in celebration of Juneteeth Day. ; ) I send love and gratefulness to the ancestors. Each step I take, each door that is open, I know its because of you. ; )

I am making cherry cobbler today. I might have mentioned I'm not much of a baker, but there is something so simple and relaxing about getting my hands into making a cobbler. A cobbler can look messy and become perfect, with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, right atop it. ; ) Ahh... summer is in the air.

Oh yes, I just wanted to stop in and wish you, the sweetest of weekends.

Peace~

peonies at home

My day off was so nice. I started the day by sipping coffee by the peonies in the back yard. I think peonies are just the sweetest, smelling flowers. I cut the peonies back a bit, and found a perfect place for one on the mantel. Each time I walked past this simple flower, it made me smile. Simple... I dig that.

PS: Thank you for your comments. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.

One love~

mosaic sunrise

church bells ring
the flowers move their dew over and begin to open
birds begin their serenades
thankful i am
gently i place my hand on my french prayer book thank you, beautiful.
a deep sigh in appreciation for what i have
spring breezes through my window are welcomed
the sun rises
touching pieces of my life waiting for me to take notice
i see its glow
i feel its rays
i enjoy a lovely book on mornings
it's a time for me
these sunrises are moments i don't think i will ever forget
; )
Mosaic monday, is hosted by the lovely, mary.

Peace~

plate love

I adore dinnerware, tea cups, coffee mugs and thick rimmed cereal bowls. I don't mind if these finds come from tag sales, or it's our wedding china. I love the endless patterns, that come and go.
Over the years I have come to believe, that saving the good china for special occasions, and fancy meals that took hours to prepare, is just not for me. ; ) Wink.

Thank you Elizabeth for inviting me to play along for plate friday. Head over to about new york and take a look at the fun plates.

Happy Weekend, my friends.

One love~

for you

There is an area in our backyard, where flowers bloom.

The person who owned this home many years ago, must have simply, loved flowers.

I do too.

There are pink roses and wine colored tulips, buttercups, peonies and orange tiger lilies, just to name a few.

Last evening as dark began to fall, I walked along the white peonies thinking of you all...

how completely beautiful the simple things came together.

we were brought together with new blogs, fresh words and simple love.

all 114 emails were answered from those of you who didn't have blogs, and i am hoping i got to each and every simple post you shared.( please email me, if i didn't leave you a comment on your post) i would have read long into the night if need be. i hung on to each beautiful word, you handed the world. ; ) blissfully.

you made me laugh, cry, and sigh with deep breaths, at your beauty.

I was asked many times. "When are we gonna do this again?" lol - Idunno, you just tell me, and I will get a list going. ; )

Here's to the simple things- that slow us down, open our eyes, cost little and become traditions.

Thank you, so very, very much.
Christina

the simple things are what make the soul sing

There are times when I set my alarm clock to wake me, so I can see the sun rise. During this time, I do nothing else, but allow the moment to have it's time. I believe it is the most simple of things, but one of the most extravagant gifts, I can give myself.

I can't see the color peach or hear a sam and dave song, without thinking of my uncle, David. I couldn't write this list without mentioning, that if I had one more day in life with him... I would touch his beard and tell him this- No matter how poor we were at times, you made me feel like the richest little girl, in the world. By sharing with me the simple things, I am able to see clearer, fly higher and dream bigger. I would give anything for just one more dance atop your feet, penny candy from your hand, or a used book, folded from your back pocket. ; )

Won't you take my hand and join me, for the simple things in life, that make my soul sing.

the voices of a gospel choir
amazing grace how sweet the sound

a smile from a stranger
hello beautiful

a walk along the water

warm croissants dipped in creme

the laughter of a child
shine sweetheart shine

lighting sparklers when it's not the 4th of july

when my daughter blows up a balloon and hands it to me ; ) that's what's up!
higher higher

running water

the bruised flower bin. i just can't leave the browned edged roses behind

Langston Hughes poetry, on my night stand.
"I will take your heart for mine.
I will take your soul.
I will be God when it comes to you."

the smell of an old library book

when my dog snuggles next to me

the static noise a record needle makes when it first touches a vinyl record
"i love you... in a space where there is no time"
donny hathaway

vanilla creamer in my coffee

an unexpected kiss from my husband when i turn over in bed at night
it's the kind of love where no matter how fast the merry- go-round of life gets, he never leaves me behind.
"you can do it baby, take my hand"

the scent of fresh rain dancing on the concrete of my neighborhood

food in the refrigerator

when i take a picture and it's beauty has nothing to do with an f-stop or iso
"the subject matter is so much more important than the photographer."
Gordon Parks

days where my husband paints my daughters toe nails. honestly, my heart breaks wide open ; )

poppy seeds over fresh fruit

soap

when i lay down and my son brings me a pillow without me ever asking

cotton candy

when i meet someone and they have to tell me to stop calling them- sir or mam.

yes, mam! ; )

a roof over our heads

God~
when i cried and said it was okay to give up on me- you didn't. ; )

love

; )

A list of bloggers who are having fun with us, are posted below.

Thank you all, so much.

One love

a list of bloggers who are simply playing along ; )

Here is the list of bloggers who have been so gracious, to play along in the simple things fun.
Thank you so much, from the bottom of my heart. I can't wait to read your post. Remember no rules, have fun. ; )

red or grey depends on the day

retinal perspectives

pink purl

come sit by my fire

go play charisse

red hot pottery

moments of perfect clarity

what would wanda do?

elsa in germany

necessary room

soeurs du jour

look what leather lips says and sees and says

coco sunday

words from the heart and soul

secret notebooks wild pages

raptinlight

perfectly imperfect

swan of dreamers

concerning pancakes

more doors

take a look into my life

persisting stars

rachambeau

operation you

six black dots

planet m files

cuttings on a blog

about new york will post 6/11

...99,100,101

...if you can't be good: be good at it...

it's just how i see things

the magpies fancy

the metaphorical magpie

marinik's blog

creativity and inspirations from ireland

chez spud

the brown's zoo tales

a memory forever

recovering from a life not lived

vigdis et al.

ilka's attic

what ever will i do with my life?

sotto voce

leafblogtanicals

delights of the heart

it's a date?

Just stopping in to remind you of the simple things, on wednesday. ; )

Ah yes, it's the simple things in life,
that can make my soul sing a tune,
so lovely...

See you wednesday.

Please leave me comment, if you would like to play along. No rules! Express yourself.

; )

mosaic symphony

the sun danced along the rivers water
my soul began to sing along to the symphony of life
faith burst a tambourine inside of me joining the celebration
a field of tulips reached notes as high as the lark ascending
the colors of life take me by the hand
Mosaic Monday is held at Mary's place. Come join the fun.

Remember the simple things, on Wednesday. Please let me know, if you would like to play along ; )

One love~

le bleuets

It's always amazing to me how making simple, blueberry muffins, can make the whole house smell beautiful. I thought of you today, while I was mixing and folding. I wondered if you liked cooking, or if you loved baking. Me? I'm not much of a baker, but I do okay in the cooking field. Although other journeys have called me out of the sun up, sun down, pace of a restaurant, I still adore cooking.

Please don't get me started...

There is not a meal I don't prepare, without a symphony of love included in the details. It can be a scrambled egg or french fries. I prepare it as though, it is my last meal. Oh yes, I do. The other day I was roasting pecans, for pecan tarts. I was talking to them (yep the pecans) telling them we need to work together, to become the perfect color, for presentation. That's what's up! ; )

See... I shouldn't of started.

A few more things...

a muffins blueberries, should burst while baking; remain firm but be the star of the show, almost sticky good.

a baked chicken with a side of mashed potatoes, can cure any blues.

the tortilla that is held over an open flame on the stove can make all the difference in mexican meal.

grilled cheese and tomato soup at the end of the day, makes me want to cry with joy.

For me, simple peasant cooking, is in my blood. A few ingredients make a meal.

The cleaning of a palate, with fennel or key lime crisps, is heaven.

Let me get a grip.

Cooking for me, is love.

A passion.

I was wondering if you would ever be interested in...I don't know; me placing a recipes here once in a while? Maybe we could make a game of it; once a month or so we could take a picture of something we have cooked, or a food we enjoy eating.

Just wondering.

Happy weekend!

One love~

P

*pretty paper*pound cake*patience*puppy paws*potatoes*
*plums*poppies*photographs*please*petit fours*praise*
*post its*pages*postman*polish pottery*puzzles*peppers*
*poetry*polaroids*ponds*ponytails*popcorn*polar bears*
*posies*paris*pray*promise*prose*puddles*pumpkins*
*pajamas*pirouettes*pixels*pizzerias*postcards*pavlova*
*pistachios*pita breads*pink*pineapple*pine nuts*palms*
*picasso*piano*physics*parks as in gordon*peppermint*
*paths*patisserie*pictorial*plans*playwrights*pasta*pay day*
*pecan pie*passageways*potlucks*people*passions*peace*

Inspired by the beautiful Relyn, at come sit by my fire.

Have a beautiful day, my friends.
; )

the simple things in life

it's the simple things in life that makes my soul sing

the sound a new book makes when it's pages are open for the first time

handwritten letters-------okay i admit it! i am a crazy woman, when it comes to mail! ; )

the street cleaning truck first thing in the morning

ice cream

the laughter of a child

the focus ring on my lens~ eh naw! ; )

the way my husband will ask me for no reason at all- "you okay baby?"

balloons ; )

I was wondering if you would like to play along??

On June 10th, for no reason at all, I was hoping we could post on our blogs, the things in life that make us happy. It can be pictures, a list, a post. No rules.
Let me know if it's something you would be interested in.
; )

Update~ next simple things july 8th. ; )
Update~ next simple things- november 16th, 2009. ; )