passiflora photography

A Year in Art

2011-08-18T10:47:00.000-07:00

I have three images in the exhibit titled "A Year in Art", currently showing at Heaven Art and Antiques Gallery in Asbury Park, New Jersey. The exhibition runs through September 18th.

Collecteur Papillon

2011-04-19T08:26:00.001-07:00

Untitled, a photo by *MaryElise* on Flickr.

"And Spring arose on the garden fair,
Like the Spirit of Love felt everywhere;
And each flower and herb on Earth's dark breast
...rose from the dreams of its wintry rest."

Percy Bysshe Shelley

Lightheaded

2011-04-13T13:13:00.001-07:00

lightheaded, a photo by *MaryElise* on Flickr.

"Happiness is a butterfly, which when pursued, is always just beyond your grasp, but which, if you will sit down quietly, may alight upon you." ~ Nathaniel Hawthorne

Protection

2011-04-01T07:56:00.001-07:00

protection, a photo by *MaryElise* on Flickr.

'We can judge the heart of a man by his treatment of animals.' ~ Immanuel Kant

Day's Dawning

2011-03-25T10:18:00.000-07:00

Nothing excites this photographer's soul more than newly fallen snow. Well, maybe fog, dark clouds, wind...I think you get the point. There's nothing wrong with a beautiful sunny day for many images. My personal favorites, however, are the photos that show those brief moments that will never be seen exactly like they are again. Weather changes the landscape, moves it, interacts with it.

So when I saw the snow falling yesterday, I knew I was going to take the scenic route to my office. Within a few hours, the snow had melted.

Strawberries & Cream

2011-03-17T09:45:00.000-07:00

I started Spring a week early with buying a large container of the most beautiful strawberries from Trader Joe's. Many of the large strawberries I discovered were doubles, and one triple! I've been slicing them over angel food cake all week :-)

Compositions in Music and Art Show

2011-03-15T09:45:00.000-07:00

I will be participating in the Compositions in Music and Art Exhibit. It is an exhibition of music themed photographs and paintings.

Details:

Heaven Art Gallery
721 Cookman Avenue
Asbury Park, NJ

Opening Reception March 19th from 7:00 - 10:00 PM

The show runs from March 19th through May 8th.

The gallery is showing this exhibit in conjunction with the "New Harmonies Exhibit" being produced by The Smithsonian Institute, which will be a month-long celebration (March 12-April 17) of concerts, shows, and exhibits of American Roots Music throughout the City.

Skeleton Keys

2011-03-08T07:01:00.000-08:00

Another view of the piano I found at the old abandoned house.

Hive Creative Challenge ~ Spring Tulips

2011-03-03T08:27:00.001-08:00

spring tulips a photo by *MaryElise* on Flickr.

Tulips are my favorite spring flower and just seeing them makes me happy :-)

“Even bees, the little almsmen of spring bowers, know there is richest juice in poison-flowers” ~ John Keats

Snowbird

2011-03-02T06:41:00.001-08:00

snowbird
Originally uploaded by *MaryElise*

"If Winter comes, can Spring be far behind?" ~ Shelley

♥

Exit 8

2011-03-01T09:21:00.001-08:00

exit 8
Originally uploaded by *MaryElise*

Image: Sign on an abandoned diner in New Jersey.

New Jersey and diners. You can't drive very far without seeing one. Most are open 24 hours, which always made them the best place to stop and grab something to eat after the nightclubs closed. Then you were usually treated to another show in the diner. Lots of "unusual" customers, and people who obviously had one (or two, or three) too many.

Of course, it's been many years since I stopped at a diner at 3:00 AM. The infrequent times I eat at one now it's usually for breakfast. I think it's what most of them do best, but that's just my personal fave. I don't know many other places where I can get a good and very large serving of eggs, potatoes, toast and an "endless" cup of tea or coffee for under $5.00. I'm getting hungry just thinking about it......

a cloud of blackbirds

2011-02-24T07:07:00.001-08:00

a cloud of blackbirds
Originally uploaded by *MaryElise*

There are few things I find more amusing to photograph than a cluster of chattering redwinged blackbirds. They were on to me though, so I had move up slowly and hide behind a tree. :-)

On the title of the image, I searched my flea market copy (c1968) of James Lipton's " An Exaltation of Larks". Yes, it is that James Lipton from the Actor's Studio. It is a study of the English-speaking tradition of coupling words to describe a set, where both words indicate the same thing, such as "a rope of pearls" and "a school of fish." It's a great book, and worth finding.

My desk, some books

2011-02-23T10:17:00.001-08:00

my desk, some books
Originally uploaded by *MaryElise*

"With a few flowers in my garden, half a dozen pictures
and some books, I live without envy."
- Lope de Vega

evening mist

2011-02-15T11:24:00.001-08:00

evening mist
Originally uploaded by *MaryElise*

"I stood beside a hill
Smooth with new-laid snow,
A single star looked out
From the cold evening glow.

There was no other creature
That saw what I could see--
I stood and watched the evening star
As long as it watched me."
- Sara Teasdale, February Twilight

hearts

2011-02-11T11:45:00.001-08:00

hearts
Originally uploaded by *MaryElise*

"If I can stop one heart from breaking,
I shall not live in vain;
If I can ease one life the aching,
Or cool one pain,
Or help one fainting robin
Unto his nest again,
I shall not live in vain." ~ Emily Dickinson

♥

Winter Aubade

2011-02-10T12:59:00.001-08:00

winter aubade
Originally uploaded by *MaryElise*

Ah, the poetry that is a winter's dawn!

fruit trees

2011-02-08T13:01:00.001-08:00

fruit trees
Originally uploaded by *MaryElise*

Another image from a snow-covered foggy day.

"Standing in a valley,
With the mist coming in,
Berries grow on the holly bushes.
Robins hide in snow-ridden woods.
If I could stay here, I would."
- Bethan Williams

four trees

2011-02-07T08:27:00.001-08:00

four trees
Originally uploaded by *MaryElise*

I really took advantage of the foggy day we had last week. It's not often around here that we have snow on the ground and a thick fog at the same time!

february

2011-02-03T07:15:00.001-08:00

february
Originally uploaded by *MaryElise*

Whose woods these are I think I know.
His house is in the village though;
He will not see me stopping here
To watch his woods fill up with snow.
My little horse must think it queer
To stop without a farmhouse near
Between the woods and frozen lake
The darkest evening of the year.
He gives his harness bells a shake
To ask if there is some mistake.
The only other sound's the sweep
Of easy wind and downy flake.
The woods are lovely, dark and deep.
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep.

on the country route

2011-01-31T09:39:00.001-08:00

on the country route
Originally uploaded by *MaryElise*

I had some success at the old book shop on Saturday and picked up three interesting books. A first edition of Brier-Patch Philosophy by “Peter Rabbit” by Interpreted by William J. Long, 1906; an antique French book of troubodour songs with the sheet music, and a large book of the history of bourbon, including some yummy recipes. This old house was on the road back home :-)

Birdprints

2011-01-13T13:03:00.000-08:00

It's been a rough winter so far, and it's barely begun.

Please feed the birds and squirrels, they really need our help now.

winter flight

2011-01-03T09:21:00.001-08:00

winter flight
Originally uploaded by *MaryElise*

"The shortest day has passed, and whatever nastiness of weather we may look forward to in January and February,
at least we notice that the days are getting longer. Minute by minute they lengthen out. It takes some weeks before
we become aware of the change. It is imperceptible even as the growth of a child, as you watch it day by day,
until the moment comes when with a start of delighted surprise we realize that we can stay out of doors in a
twilight lasting for another quarter of a precious hour."

Vita Sackville-West

That Red Moon

2010-12-23T07:38:00.000-08:00

How much more special could nature be to deliver such a birthday gift? December 21st has always been thee Winter Solstice, so there was always that. This year I was treated to a total Lunar Eclipse on the same day. The image I captured, from which I made a collage with another photo, above, was taken approximately 3:41 AM. It was about 25 degrees F, and windy. I was so mesmerized I didn't feel the cold for a long time. It was a moment I would never see again and I knew I would be disappointed if I missed it. Some things in life you just have to make a sacrifice for, because it might never happen again.

Feeling Like Snow

2010-12-16T07:05:00.000-08:00

It's possible that I might see a dusting of snow on the ground later today. Even though winter doesn't officially begin until December 21st (my birthday!) it's certainly been winter-cold.

I have mixed feelings about the snow. It's beautiful when it begins and has given me many wonderful photographic opportunities. I love walking in the snow and being bundled in my favorite woolens. I love nesting indoors with a cup of hot tea or hot chocolate and biscuits and a cat or two on my lap and watching the winter world go by.

Too much snow, or snow mixed with sleet and ice is what I don't like. It's dangerous to walk and drive, and after a few hours what was once beautiful and white has become a dirty gray.

So, I look forward to and enjoy those moments of beauty, because they never last.

Autumn Again

2010-10-14T11:14:00.000-07:00

Autumn has arrived again in the neighborhood, but only today has it felt like it. I'm looking forward to sweaters, tights and scarves. I spend a lot of time watching the wildlife in my backyard, and there is so much to see. Cardinals, chicadees, nuthatches, finches....so many birds, and there was a population explosion of chipmunks this year (much to the chagrin of many gardeners...). After three weeks of not seeing my favorite squirrel Happy, she appeared two days ago, looking good and very hungry. I didn't have time to grab my camera, but I can report that she did wear an acorn hat again this season. :-)

Hopefully, future visits will enable some new images, but here is one from earlier this year.

it will come once again

2010-08-08T12:12:00.001-07:00

it will come once again
Originally uploaded by *MaryElise*

I can't make any excuses for the long gap in posts, because I know it will happen again. I haven't been as active with my cameras as I would like, but that is how busy life is sometimes.

I will be going through some major life changes during the next year or so, as I have been the last six months. Only time will tell what direction I will take and where I will land. Fear of the unknown? Not really, I'm trying to be optimistic and excited :-)

Whatever you want it to be, it will come once again.

Companions of the Spring

2010-04-08T11:23:00.000-07:00

A bird on a bare tree branch is art to me....

nesting

2010-04-07T19:50:00.001-07:00

Risk

2010-04-06T12:20:00.000-07:00

A group of children were flying kites on the beach on a blustery spring day recently. I watched for a while, then took this photo as they were getting ready to leave. I am reminded of how much like a flying kite I feel like at times. The unrelenting wind can twist and turn my frail shape without care. Of course, there is freedom in that open sky, but I am vulnerable as well. I can soar as high as the prevailing winds allow, but I'm also in danger of crashing to the ground, sometimes broken. Maybe I'm getting too old to take risks anymore...

Longer Days

2010-03-31T10:51:00.000-07:00

Enjoy the Spring of Love and Youth,

to some good angel leave the rest;

For Time will teach thee soon the truth,

There are no birds in last year's nest!

Longfellow

Of Birds and Poets

2010-03-17T10:55:00.000-07:00

"A forest bird never wants a cage" ~ Ibsen

The Divine Diptych Project

2010-03-12T09:35:00.000-08:00

This is a collaboration between ~Paloma~ (right photo) and myself for The Divine Diptych Project. This is a project between a group of us who have known each other a long time on Flickr.

Each week we will be pairing up to create diptychs from random themes. For Week 2 of the Project, Paloma and I were given "Bed/Bedroom" as our theme. We didn't discuss our photos at all ahead of time. Paloma has always done lovely indoor self-portrait images, so I took a chance and created mine outdoors.

The results of all the collaborations are being posted on a blog, which you can find here ...

divinediptychproject.blogspot.com/

You can see more of ~Paloma~'s work here

SideTracked

2010-01-29T09:16:00.000-08:00

I've done it again, disappeared for months. Illness, and just life had taken over and kept me from posting here. So, I will give it another go and see what happens. I'm on Facebook now, and Twitter. I've downsized my Imagekind gallery and I'm preparing to open an Etsy shoppe.

2009-12-14T12:10:00.000-08:00

I am having a sale on all prints though December 21st. Shipping is FREE on all orders over $25.00 through today, December 14th. Don't miss the last chance in 2009 for free shipping on your Christmas gifts!

Spring Walking

2009-05-04T09:18:00.001-07:00

Journey

2009-05-01T07:10:00.001-07:00

journey
Originally uploaded by *MaryElise*

In the past few years, I have been on a journey in my mind. Most of the time, I am content to daydream and make lists and plans of where I am going next. Some days I have an overwhelming urge to travel, to get away from the sameness. If for a day, or two, or weeks, it has always been another note, one more step in the direction of where I should be.

Notes

2009-04-18T19:09:00.000-07:00

Alice

2009-04-16T08:30:00.000-07:00

Alice is me of course, when I am lost in my own fairytale world, which is most of the time recently. I even have my own Dinah, although Miles (above) would object to that. I should have held Emily for this one....cause it's a girl thing. After all, I do spent inordinate amounts of time surveying my wooded back yard and all it's inhabitants...the squirrels, the chipmunks that have been making appearances again after the long, cold winter, and raucous flocks of birds. This weekend or next I'm planning a tea party (probably a Mad one at that) in the woods. I've been making a mental list of appropriate clothing and tea settings...I need to start gathering them together. If that isn't proper Alice, I don't know what is. The only problem is my rabbits are brown instead of white, but I do have to chase them down to speak to them.

Back to reality for now....I could swear that cat is smiling at me.

easter

2009-04-12T05:16:00.000-07:00

Fragrant flowers, bumblebees, sunshine, tea and Daffodil Cake :-)

A yellow and white marble cake.

Have all ingredients at room temperature, about 70F. Preheat the oven to 350F. Have ready in 2 separate containers:
3/4 cup sifted cake flour
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons sifted cake flour

Beat in a large bowl at medium-high speed until frothy:
10 large egg whites

Add:
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 teaspoon salt

Whip until stiff but not dry. Beating at low speed, gradually add:
1 1/4 cups sugar

Continue to beat until the egg whites form glossy peaks. Transfer half the mixture to another large bowl. Fold into one half, a little at a time, the 3/4 cup sifted flower and:
6 large egg yolks, beaten
Grated zest of 1 orange

Fold into the other half, a little at a time, the remaining sifted flour and:
1 teaspoon vanilla

Place the batters, a cupful or more at a time, in the clean, dry, ungreased tube pan, alternating them. Bake until the top springs back when lightly pressed and a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean, about 35 minutes. Cool and unmold.

Wonderland

2009-04-09T20:34:00.001-07:00

For Magpie :-)

StonyCreek

2009-04-09T08:22:00.000-07:00

My sister is a spinner-extraordinaire (if that's a word!) Her store on Etsy features gorgeous handspun yarns and spinning fibers that are completely hand processed from the fleece of local sheep. She also offers finished items such as hats, shawls, rugs, and felted bags. One of my favorite items is her Mothaway sachets, made from food grade dried herbs and spices. Great for your lovely woolies, especially useful this time of year when we are packing them away for the summer :-)

You can find her beautiful items at Stony Creek

Photographed above is a soft, merino yarn in Peony.

2009-04-09T06:47:00.000-07:00

It's starting to feel like spring here today. The thought of walking with the breeze against my skin is exhiliarating. Spring cleaning, not in the tradition sense, is on my mind. I will be cleaning my home, and getting rid of clutter for sure, but it is a spiritual exercise. Cleaning out what we don't need makes us think more clearly about what is really important to us. Resolutions normally begin on January 1st, but I usually think of them when the spring trees and flowers start to bloom. Off with the heavy garments, time to layer ethereal cloth. Eating lighter, being lighter. I want to travel lighter in life, and in my mind. Saving only what is necessary and loved.

I want to know if you have "spring resolutions", and what they are. To the one with the best idea, I will gift a 8x10 print of any of my images you would like. The contest will end on April 23rd.

:-D

2009-04-08T10:27:00.000-07:00

To the Beach....

If the weather ever agrees to cooperate, I am looking forward to spending time there again soon. It's a bit of a walk over the dunes to the beach, but the privacy is well worth it. The beach area is a great source of inspiration for me, and I find myself needing some right now.

Where do you find your inspiration?

2009-04-02T10:19:00.000-07:00

The second book by the Female Self Portrait Artist's Support Group, In Her Own Image, will be available in April though Blurb.com. Larger than the introductory book, this volume features 87 women photographers (myself included), in a gorgeous 316 page collection!

In Her Own Image features work from the following artists:

Alisha Shevlin, Angel Lynne, Angela Gott, Angeline Stewart, Ashley Lebedev, Bazil Zerinsky, Bee Brady, Bethany Helzer, Bogna Kuczerawy, Brienne Griffin, Bronwen Hyde, Cheryl, Christina Ruvoldt, Christy Marie, Crystal Rose, Cynthia That-Cacopardo, Dana France, dani, Elise Hibbard, Elizabeth LaFreniere, Elizabeth Livermore, Elle Moss, Elsa Björg Magnúsdóttir, Emily Basch, Emily Sandifer, Emma Newson, Erika Pham, Eva Moreno López, Felicitas Klische, fernanda montoro, Gemma Gonzalez, Heather Evans Smith, Hélène Deroubaix, i.anton, Ilina S, Jennifer Evans, Jennifer Henriksen, Jill Evans, Joanne Cruickshank, Juliet Home, Juliette LaCour, Karin Elizabeth, Kate Armstrong, kate passaro, Kimberly Rose, Kiyo Murakami, Kristina Martino, Laura Acosta, Lauren Bentley, Lena Paloma, Lisa Noble, Lucy Nuzum, Lucy Wen-Shu Shih, Maggie Phelan, Margaret Tyson, María Elena Costa, Mariangela Totaro, Marico Fayre, Marie Killen, Maryam Siddiqi, MaryElise Tomczak, Maureen Fogarty, Megan Horsburgh, Melissa Gridley, Michelle McRae, Michelle Merle Pace, Miss Aniela, Monica Costa, Monica L. Shulman, ms.sparkles, Nathalie Griffiths, Özlem Haluk, Pamela Jesuitas, Qathi Gallaher Hart, Rachel Blumenthal, Rossina Bossio, Sarah Mercer, Sarah R. Bloom, Sarah Wright, Sevgi K, Sharon Cooper, Sharon T. Wheaton, SophieCharlotte, Susan Knight, Teffin, Teresa Horstmann, Wendy Anderson.

The front cover features a fantastic image by Erika Pham, and has been designed by Elle Moss and Heather Evans Smith.

2009-03-30T08:38:00.000-07:00

I must have been influenced by Andrew Wyeth's Master Bedroom, but I didn't realize it until after I took the shot. It's possible, since I've seen that painting many times. This spot has become Emily's favorite place to nap during the day when I'm working. She looked so sweet curled up there I had to grab my camera before I left the house to catch it. I love the little depression she leaves in the duvet.

Also, my other cat Miles and I have been blogged! See Cat Nipped

"Home is Where My Cat Is" by MaryElise Tomczak
Texture provided by skeletal mess

Clouds

2009-03-19T11:41:00.001-07:00

Photo by MaryElise Tomczak, Texture provided by Mayang's Textures.

Prints of all images in this blog available at Imagekind. See link >

Dreaming of Spring

2009-03-12T11:44:00.000-07:00

Need I say more?

March

2009-03-04T06:08:00.000-08:00

"Elle's Pink Tulle" by MaryElise Tomczak

Oh dear, I seemed to have completely missed February. At least on my blog. It's a short month anyway :-)

We had a lot of snow this week and while I normally would have taken the opportunity to take some photos, I was uninspired. Or just lazy. I'm sure it's because I'm so tired of the cold weather. I've taken to cooking more at home lately and I seem to feel better when I eat my own food rather than the restaurant's. I love cooking and baking, I find it relaxing and creative in it's own way. When I'm finished it's the beginning of a lovely evening with loved ones. Cooking has always come quite easily for me, and I'm surprised when I hear people say they can't cook. We've started a recipe thread in a group in which I'm a member and I'm hoping it will be a treasure of new things to try. That reminds me, I meant to add one of my own.

I've had several of my recipes published in one of those community books for charity years ago so I will be posting one of those. Once I post it there, I will add it this blog as well.

I'm also in a decorating mode. It must be spring fever. I'm buying new curtains for the living room and my bedroom, and I will be moving furniture around too (with help of course :-)) and buying a few new pieces for storage. I've received some gorgeous prints from MFayre and TeresaAdorphy through a photo exchange, so I will be having them framed and hung. I love to have things to do and things to look forward to, especially when it enhances my space.

I wonder how Emily and Miles will like it? :-D

First Snow

2009-01-27T12:49:00.001-08:00

I know, I know, I'm not being a very good blogger. It was a very busy December and January has been worse. I've been working on a portfolio of self portraits and will soon be starting another online store in addition to Imagekind. I've been a bit of a hermit during this cold weather only stepping outside when I have to. I need to get back to the beach like last winter when I was taking so many photos my hands were red and stiff from the cold. I have been waiting for a good snowfall to take some photos. I'm hoping, if the forecast is right, tomorrow might be the day. :-)

Photo by MaryElise Tomczak

December

2008-12-04T13:45:00.000-08:00

I have mixed feelings about December. The days get shorter and shorter and unless I run out in the cold at lunchtime, I don't see much daylight. It's also my birthday month, which depending on what happens that day could be good or bad. As time passes, the fact that I'm getting older is not good. As my father used to say, it's better than the alternative, but that's not much comfort when I look in the mirror. There are parties, and food (more mixed feelings).....lots of food. I find most of it exhausting. I don't celebrate the holidays like I used to and I like quiet get togethers. OK......I will go to one party.....maybe two or three. I think the worst part of December is the post-holiday-crash-hangover that is inevitable. When I was younger, I would get excited about the gifts I gave out, and feel my heart sink when the receivers weren't as enthused about their gift as I was. I have set lower standards over the years and now I'm not disappointed. I still plan on having fun...just in my own unique way.

Flowers and Flight

2008-11-08T09:14:00.001-08:00

flowers and flight
Originally uploaded by *MaryElise*

"Band of iris-flowers
above the waves,
you are painted blue,
painted like a fresh prow
stained among the salt weeds."

~Hilda Doolittle~

The leaves are quickly falling to the ground, but it is still warm enough at my house for the flowers I planted back in June to try their fading blossoms. I know it won't be long now before the trees are bare. I had the unfortunate incident of discovering a hawk had been ravaging my feeding station and had killed many of my chipmunks and birds. I had to stop feeding for a while to discourage all my usual visitors hoping the hawk will find his feasts elsewhere. The bare trees will soon no longer help to disguise the murderous raptor. Don't get me wrong, I love all birds, including hawks, but I would prefer they didn't make meals out of my friends. It was a disquieting realization that the mini paradise I had cultivated for years was no longer the happy safe place I had assumed. I will resume my normal feeding soon, but my chipmunks would have gone into hibernation by now anyway. I will miss seeing ones I have befriended for years when they don't come back next April. So today, on a rainy cool November Saturday I remember the warmer months, when the flowers and bees and animals were just beginning their season. Turn, turn, turn...

Autumn.Song

2008-10-29T13:33:00.000-07:00

So, it's been a while since I've been here, I mean writing and not just lurking. A friend at work gave me a double CD with '80's hits on it and I went on a ride through the way-back machine. Literally a ride, since I listened to it while driving. It definitely stirred up some feelings and memories. I feel my life at present is in a bit of an whirlwind, in both my work and private places, so that little bit of familiarity was comforting. There is no denying my passion of photography, so much it often moves me to tears. Of course, I can't afford to spend all my time on it because living on the street really isn't my style. At this place in my life I would have imagined everything would have been set up quite neatly....everything the way it "should" be. I fantasize about perfection. Not really being realistic, I would probably be bored quickly. So the rollercoaster of life continues, hopefully with a few breathtaking stops along the way.

convinced she can do everything she's ever dreamed of with just a little

2008-10-10T10:57:00.001-07:00

Just a little more space. I certainly could use it. In my home for sure, as the boxes and clothes piling up are started to impede my life. I have good intentions. This is the season to sort through and pack away the summer clothes and bring out the woolens. The problem is, Autumn has gotten stuck. It's 75 degrees during the day and 35-40 degrees overnight. Hence the piles of boxes and clothes. This weekend I am determined. I have a three-day weekend so part of that is earmarked for the final cleanup. It's too bad, because I'm the type of person who just wants to have fun. Why should I stay home and clean on a beautiful day (and the weather IS supposed to be gorgeous) when I can be outside playing? My best intentions are hardly ever realized because that fun-loving chick is over-powering. She will probably win this one too.

*Title from Story People.com

Party Time

2008-10-08T11:22:00.000-07:00

Now available at Imagekind!

http://www.imagekind.com/showartwork.aspx?imid=5b629369-39a8-423c-8874-1f7993d43f57

Pumpkin Days & Pumpkin Nights

2008-10-06T11:04:00.000-07:00

This is pumpkin season and I thought instead of the usual recipes, I would provide some ways to indulge without the extra calories. Here's a few non-edible but still luscious items celebrating the essence and color of pumpkin:

Pumpkin Pie by Philosophy (A 3-in-1 shampoo, shower gel and bubble bath) This one will take you through the holidays.

Pumpkin Hand Repair Cream by Desert Essence

Healthy Pumpkin Detox Shampoo by Sexy Hair Concepts

Pumpkin Eyeshadow by Elizabeth Arden

Pumpkin Pie Housewarmer Candle by Yankee Candle.

Crocheted Pumpkin Neckwarmer by Humanidad (Humanidad.etsy.com)

Carina Lamb's Wool Blanket in Pumpkin (www.frontgate.com)

The problem for me is, once I catch the fragrance in the air, I'll want the real pie too!

The Light in the Clouds

2008-10-02T07:28:00.000-07:00

I've always had a fondness for gulls. I don't know, they just make me laugh. Totally self-centered, loud, messy. They remind me of people I know. They make great subjects for photography, as they are strking visually and are usually getting in to some kind of mischief. Try standing on a beach with some bread or chips and see how quickly you make a flapping, bickering group of new friends. So like the squirrels in my yard, they will pose for food. Aside from the nonsense, there is a beauty in their movement, their flight. As with most birds, they have that envious freedom. Just once, I would like to be suspended over the sea, rocking in the wind.

Bed of Tears

2008-10-01T07:51:00.000-07:00

Golden Coloured Sky

2008-09-29T10:53:00.000-07:00

I pass this small farm every day on my way to work. The days when the owners sold fruit and vegetables to the public are long gone. They still grow corn, and I can see rows of flowers blooming behind the house. It is a bright spot among the typical "McMansions" close by. There are other properties with open land farther down the road, but they are thoroughbred farms (the horse is our state animal). I see the older couple that owns the farm go about their work sometimes and I wonder how long I will see this little golden gem. I watch the seasons blend from one to another each morning and afternoon in those brief moments. I look forward to see if there will be ducks on the tiny pond, how far along the corn has grown, and when they hang up a few decorated wreaths on the greenhouse walls in December. On late September afternoons, the sun setting in the west flashes across the dying corn stalks in a warm golden display. I stopped one day to photograph that moment, a memory to be.

Wonderland

2008-09-27T09:49:00.000-07:00

Besides photography, one of my greatest pleasures is being surrounded by books. I especially love old book shops, as I can find out-of-print goodies that I never knew existed. Through the years, my favorite subjects have been nature, cookbooks, classics, poetry, art....really anything that catches my eye. My fondness for old cookbooks is twofold. One, for the recipes but most importantly, the history of women tucked between the pages in the oldest of my collected pieces. I read these cookbooks like novels. Just like a history book, it brings me back in time to how our female ancestors lived and worked in their homes. When my days are overwhelming, it's comforting to read pages from a simpler life. Actually, what I perceive as simple. I have no illusions of perfection of those days, it is a fantasy of family life that never existed. Through my personal looking glass, I can imagine the fragrance, warmth, and love of these homes through the fading notes of women who worked extremely hard to make them that way.

Transformation

2008-09-25T07:05:00.001-07:00

Change is inevitable. As hard as we try at times to keep the status quo, it falls away. You can't stop the forces (people, methods) from changing around you. Fear of change is common. We even fear good change. Why would that be? Most people don't like moving out of their comfort zone. But, it is only that movement that creates opportunities in our lives. Then you wonder why you didn't make a change sooner.

“Change is the essence of life.Be willing to surrender what you are for what you could become.”

Time stands still best in moments that look suspiciously like ordinary life.

2008-09-24T12:53:00.000-07:00

Title is courtesy of StoryPeople.com

I Hear the Mermaids Singing

2008-09-23T07:20:00.001-07:00

One of my passions is vintage clothes. If I could choose an era it would be the 40's, but my interests span the decades. When I was younger, my friends and I would head up to the Village around St. Mark's and pick through the Late Show. That was always a treasure trove. Great 40's jackets for $3.00. A long black (real!) silk velvet coat. Incredible to think about now. There were a few other places around that I can't remember the names, except Trash and Vaudeville. They were vintage and rock and roll combined. A lot more organized than the other vintage shops. After a day of shopping, we would head back on the subway to the bus or train home and ready to flash my new old clothes around town. Today, it's more difficult to find what I like, and certainly much more expensive when I do. I've become more inclined to troll through Ebay. My recent conquests there have been a gorgeous 60's tapestry coat in fall colors and a 50's brocade lace cocktail dress. Buying online can't compare to having my hands in all the wonderful fabrics in those long lost stores, but it's heartening to know the vintage lovelies are still out there.

Autumn

2008-09-22T08:29:00.000-07:00

As another season begins, the business of "The Book" continues. (See below) We are doing great with the sales on Blurb, and are on the best-sellers list!

October is one of my favorite months, mostly because of the colorful changes in nature. There is nothing like a drive in the country surrounded by landscapes of golds, reds, oranges and greens. Fantastic opportuntities for a photographer for sure. I'm also tired of shorts and sandals and look forward to pulling out my sweaters and tights. And baking.....yes! It's been much too hot to turn on the oven but this is the season I get cooking :) The farm stands are overflowing with ripe fruits and vegetables and now is the time to take advantage. Zucchini, tomatoes, corn and peaches are now sharing space with apples, pears, pumpkins and gourds. I'm overwhelmed with the possibilities!

Muffins have been my breakfast of choice recently, and here's one that appeals to my autumnal spice yearnings. I normally use the larger muffin tins so I end up with 6 large muffins.

Gingerbread-Pear Muffins.

1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. ground ginger
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/4 tsp. salt
2/3 cup mild-flavored molasses
1/4 cup butter, melted
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1 egg
1/2 cup boiling water
2 small pears, cut in 6 wedges each
3 ounces dark or bittersweet chocolate broken in small pieces
Raw sugar, optional

1. Preheat oven to 350F. Lightly coat twelve 2-1/2-inch muffin cups with nonstick cooking spray and flour.

2. In large bowl combine flour, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. In a second bowl whisk together molasses, butter, brown sugar, and egg. Pour into flour mixture. Stir until combined. Whisk in boiling water. Divide evenly among muffin cups. Add 1 pear wedge to each muffin, press lightly.

3. Bake 15 to 18 minutes or until toothpick inserted into center comes out clean. Sprinkle with raw sugar. Add chocolate piece to top of muffins. Cool in pan on rack 10 minutes. Use table knife to smooth melted chocolate. Remove from cups. Cool completely on wire rack. Makes 12.

Musings for a Late Summer Weekend

2008-09-19T10:52:00.002-07:00

"If I keep a green bough in my heart, the singing bird will come.” ~ Chinese Proverb

This weekend will be continuing the process I began months ago of making my life simpler. Sorting through all my belongings, I have been throwing away or donating many items I no longer need, use, or find they should occupy space in my home. I want a cleaner space. Over the next few years, I will be moving, leaving my job and starting a new phase of my life. I plan to have a lighter load when that time comes, and only carry what is most important to me.

Silent is the House

2008-09-18T07:15:00.001-07:00

Five more days before the "official" start of Autumn and the changes around my house have begun. The crickets which were at a noisy peak the last two weeks were unheard from last night. Windows are being closed so the chatter and television din from the neighbors have been muffled. Now I can clearly hear the leaves move on the trees with the cooler breeze right after dusk. The white flowers I planted early summer are starting to fade a bit. This weekend they will be joined by mums...lavendar, maybe pumpkin colored. Inside, the quiet calms me and urges me to read, write and dream more. I know there is so much more to come.

Looking for Starfish

2008-09-17T08:11:00.000-07:00

Living by the ocean nearly my whole life hasn't lessened my fascination with it, or with the creatures who call it home. One of my favorite childhood memories was when I spent the day exploring the small caves created by the rocks at the inlet. The interiors were filled with little treasures (at least I thought they were treasures). There were crabs, small fish, shells, and my favorite starfish. Once I was quite excited to find a small seahorse. Inside these little sea rooms with a sandy floor, the waves could trickle in and bring enough water to cover my feet and provide a place for these ocean inhabitants to live and hide. Those moments were special as I felt hidden away with these little creatures and felt a part of their magical world.

Patience

2008-09-16T08:10:00.000-07:00

At first glance, this is simply an image of a chair and a cat. Since I took the image and I know the space, naturally it is personal to me. I believe it goes beyond the personal when anyone can put themselves into that scene. You can sit in the chair. You can touch the cat's soft fur, and he might sit in your lap. Unseen is the cup of tea next to the chair. I see this image as a welcoming one, and not as simple as that first glance.

Stacked

2008-09-12T11:51:00.001-07:00

I have this photo entered into the "Delectable" contest theme at JPGMAG.com. I'd so appreciate it if you considered going over and voting!

http://www.jpgmag.com/photos/995663/

Book Release Today!

2008-09-11T08:09:00.001-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday 12th September 2008

Contact: MaryElise Tomczak
Email: passiflora.photography@gmail.com

**Press Release**

She Took Her Own Picture--- 44 female artists from across the world have come together online to self-publish a collection of photographic self portraits---The group of women, most whom have never met each other, have collaborated through a photo-sharing website where they share their work online, to produce a book of their self-portraits.She Took Her Own Picture: Selections from the Female Self Portrait Artists' Support Group will be available this Friday, 12th September 2008. The unique venture comes as a first for women's photographic self-portraiture today.Self-publishing the book through Blurb.com, the artists hope the book will serve as a prototype to target suitable art publishers and make the book available on a wider basis, with the aim of donating a percentage of the profits to women's causes.The participants, both amateurs and professionals, range in age and origin and hail from North and Latin America, the UK and Ireland, Australia, the Caribbean, Oceania, and all over Europe. These 44 women however, are only a small percentage of over 1000 female self-portrait artists who congregate in the Female Self Portrait Artists' Support Group, a group on Flickr started by Laurel Fiszer from Ireland, where the idea for a book of work first began. The group was set up to provide a "collective of women photographers who strengthen their friendship by sharing inspired, artistic, and well-executed photographs"."Laurel's primary goal," says Natalie J. McCarthy, writer of the introduction to the book, "was to create a place online where female photographers could share self-portraits and receive constructive criticism in a supportive, encouraging, and non-judgmental environment."She noticed that female self-portrait photographers were often seen as narcissistic princesses who had to defend their work against an onslaught of criticism — most of which was not directed toward the photograph's technical merits."The group argues that the female self-portrait has proved to offer women artists a powerful opportunity: the chance to categorically refute antiquated notions of the woman's role as an art object, and to create a new, empowered vision of the female model. She Took Her Own Picture, whilst constructed upon this feminist foundation, also presents a collection of first-rate photography."At the end of the day", says McCarthy, "they bring you into their circle of friends and share their art with you".

For more information, please visit:

She Took Her Own Picture

She Took Her Own Picture - Photography Book

2008-09-09T08:00:00.000-07:00

The availability date of the book that I mentioned previously in my blog is Friday, September 12th. I will post the Blurb.com link for purchase soon!

Sunset Beach

2008-07-18T07:32:00.000-07:00

"As many as the shells that are on the shore, so many are the pains of love; the darts that wound are steeped in much poison. " ~ Ovid

I collect shells. I have antique glass containers filled with ones I find each time I visit the beach in the summer. I gather a few at a time. Only perfect, unblemished shells. The broken ones are tossed back into the ocean. Salmon-colored scallop shells are my favorite and fill most of the jars. I don't know why I seek them out. I've lived at the ocean most of my life so they are not really souvenirs in that sense. Maybe it's just a remembrance of the day and a way of bringing a small piece of the ocean into my home.

By The Seashore

2008-07-17T12:10:00.000-07:00

Birds and Poets

2008-07-15T07:19:00.001-07:00

"The very idea of a bird is a symbol and a suggestion to the poet. A bird seems to be at the top of the scale, so vehement and intense his life. . . . The beautiful vagabonds, endowed with every grace, masters of all climes, and knowing no bounds -- how many human aspirations are realised in their free, holiday-lives -- and how many suggestions to the poet in their flight and song!"

John Burroughs, Birds and Poets, 1887

Silent Symphony

2008-07-14T10:03:00.000-07:00

Sea-Winds

2008-07-11T13:34:00.000-07:00

She Took Her Own Picture

2008-07-11T08:43:00.000-07:00

I am part of a book that is being published soon by the Female Self Portrait Artists Support Group (FSPASG) from Flickr.com. The book, "She Took Her Own Picture", is a selection of images from 44 female photographers from around the globe who have turned the camera on themselves. The almost year long project was a group effort combining the many talents of the women involved.

I will provide more information and a link to purchase when it becomes available. The photo here is merely an advert, not the book's cover.

New Beginnings

2008-07-11T08:40:00.000-07:00

Miles and I would like to welcome you to my blog. I will be here primarily to spotlight my photography. It's also about life.....mine of course, and what is happening in my world.