speaking of bad habits

How tired are you of my shots of bouquets? This one arrived with friends Xuehong and Wade on Friday evening, and I couldn't wait to capture these spring colors. My mom the watercolorist loved to paint flowers. Maybe this is my own little variation on her obsession? I don't think I'll ever get tired of shooting them.

always let sleeping babies lie

I had my first opportunity to babysit Griffin today, so naturally indulged my favorite bad habit! He may kill me for this someday...

birdland lullaby (Stenzel Healing Garden)

Facebook Meme

"Remember when teachers, public employees, Planned Parenthood, NPR and PBS crashed the stock market, wiped out half our 401(k)s, took trillions in TARP money, spilled oil in the Gulf of Mexico, gave themselves billions in bonuses, and paid no taxes? Yeah, me neither."

The rare dry day

Took a few shots around the Buckman neighborhood before the play. It was so nice to have a break from the rain!

Buckman School 3rd Grade Play! An Environmental History of Portland

As narrated by ol' Doug Fir (aka Grandson #1: Grayson):

Portland's original pristine views.

Native americans tell stories by the rainy river.

Trapping for beaver pelts leads to handsome hatwear in London.

Tired Oregon Trail immigrants and their oxen.

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A photo op with Misters Overton, Pettygrove & Lovejoy (and a frog).

Happy, burly loggers.

Spotted owl and little blackbirds.

Confident Rosie the Riveters from Vanport!

Vaux Swifts circle the chimney at Chapman School.

Chorus & audience.

Finale!

The production was incredibly comprehensive, lasting nearly 90 minutes as all three third-grade classes (Ms. Custis, Ms. Vestal & Mr. Scott) presented the story of the "civilizing" of Portland from the point of view of the native animals, elements, plants and humans--from its pristine origins to our present urban culture. I loved it!

Buckman is a magnet arts school and has a long tradition of excellent original theatrical productions. This musical play was accompanied by a 3-man jazz combo as well, but they were hunkered down in a dark corner, preventing me from getting a decent shot, darnit.

Grayson gave a truly polished performance, appearing onstage almost constantly, he never missed a cue or flubbed a single line! He's a natural actor. Baby brother Griffin seemed to know that this was Grayson's night and didn't fuss or make a peep the entire time.

A desperate attempt to invite color into the new month. Hello, April. No more rain, 'kay?

Irvington views, inside & out

latest grandchild photo

Griffin, two weeks.

Goodbye March 2011! Don't let the door hit you in the ass on your way out...

And don't come back.