tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-91087624324669030822024-03-13T04:47:37.247-07:00Powder BlueCrystal Ballhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11182836665339377910noreply@blogger.comBlogger118125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108762432466903082.post-18833533270650935872010-07-13T19:39:00.000-07:002010-07-13T20:41:14.384-07:00Fields of Marigold<center><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=r85mz6" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.tinypic.com/r85mz6.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=2ibj1bl" target="_blank"><img src="http://i29.tinypic.com/2ibj1bl.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=1zp658z" target="_blank"><img src="http://i28.tinypic.com/1zp658z.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=30hlrow" target="_blank"><img src="http://i30.tinypic.com/30hlrow.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=35almjs" target="_blank"><img src="http://i27.tinypic.com/35almjs.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=14v5g6w" target="_blank"><img src="http://i28.tinypic.com/14v5g6w.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=2ns44g2" target="_blank"><img src="http://i28.tinypic.com/2ns44g2.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=23m95ci" target="_blank"><img src="http://i29.tinypic.com/23m95ci.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=vh80tl" target="_blank"><img src="http://i25.tinypic.com/vh80tl.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /></center>Crystal Ballhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11182836665339377910noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108762432466903082.post-12743932938026428602010-07-10T12:53:00.000-07:002010-07-10T12:58:44.815-07:00Ode To Summer II<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=2jfxhzp" target="_blank"><img src="http://i26.tinypic.com/2jfxhzp.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=211vsx1" target="_blank"><img src="http://i25.tinypic.com/211vsx1.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=1z1tdp0" target="_blank"><img src="http://i26.tinypic.com/1z1tdp0.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=23k3k36" target="_blank"><img src="http://i31.tinypic.com/23k3k36.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=j6r5om" target="_blank"><img src="http://i28.tinypic.com/j6r5om.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=ftirva" target="_blank"><img src="http://i25.tinypic.com/ftirva.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=2rhb6f7" target="_blank"><img src="http://i30.tinypic.com/2rhb6f7.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=357hif9" target="_blank"><img src="http://i31.tinypic.com/357hif9.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div>Crystal Ballhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11182836665339377910noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108762432466903082.post-45327120844766965032010-07-07T19:55:00.000-07:002010-07-07T20:11:14.917-07:00WordsSometimes there are so many words inside of me<br />brewing like a dozen kettles of water in my veins<br />itching, struggling to be given life.<br />And it scares me so, so much<br />knowing that they might never reach a page.<br />Instead left to decompose in the obscure caves of my interiors<br />where nobody will ever get to see their scintillating magic.Crystal Ballhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11182836665339377910noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108762432466903082.post-44575111361669129862010-06-10T21:38:00.000-07:002010-06-10T21:38:17.633-07:00Ode To Summer<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/10mlcgy.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/9rnhck.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/35mmptj.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/k4dv1i.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/mrutte.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br />Unmade beds, lazy afternoons, ripe fruit and multi-colored sunsets.<br /></div>Crystal Ballhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11182836665339377910noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108762432466903082.post-40539346969716544632010-06-07T15:12:00.000-07:002010-06-07T15:12:40.155-07:00It's A Photo Swap!Three seasons ago lovely blogger Rhianne from <a style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://fortheeasilydistracted.blogspot.com/">For the Easily Distracted</a> came up with an amazing idea. One successful photo swap later, she is ready to host the second one. To view pictures from the 2009 swap, visit the photo swap <a style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://itsaphotoswap.blogspot.com/">blog</a>.<br />Last year, my disposable camera traveled all the way from my little hometown in California to South Africa! Unfortunately, some things came up and I didn't receive pictures from my partner. In fact, I thought I wouldn't even get a chance to see the pictures that I had taken. Thankfully, with the help of my partner's brother, I was recently emailed all of them. It was such a lovely surprise. Below are a few of my favorites.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/vhrj42.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/fwjacz.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/30kcbgl.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i46.tinypic.com/8xlxz5.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br />I can't wait to find out where my roll of film will travel to this year (especially since I won't have to settle for a disposable this time around. I have my own 35mm!) If you'd like to participate in this year's swap, you have until June 18th to sign up. Click on the icon below for more information.<br /></div><br /><a href="http://fortheeasilydistracted.blogspot.com/2010/06/its-photo-swap-2010.html"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_vsV-ulXps74/TAThzFo__UI/AAAAAAAACh4/U3WXvwhiko8/s1600/photoswap2010banner.jpg" /></a><br /></div>Crystal Ballhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11182836665339377910noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108762432466903082.post-51621390426044193392010-06-02T01:27:00.000-07:002010-06-02T01:33:25.618-07:00The Gradual Workings Of A SeamstressTo be whole.<br /><br />It's a process. A damn tricky one.<br /><br />What is this state of being whole? Is it being happy? That must be part of it. The acceptance of flaws? Both your own and the imperfections of life? Yes. The strength to keep positive energy, even when life presents you with its toughest moments? Definitely.<br />I suppose being whole feels different to everyone. After all, we are all different balances and we house different perspectives. For me being whole is somewhere nestled between the above. True happiness comes with acceptance and acceptance remains only with a positive mind. It all sounds so beautiful and smooth- but something like that is much easier said than achieved. Which makes me remember that I'm human. And then I remember again: <span style="font-style: italic;">I'm human</span>. One who lets her emotions get the best of her and one who, unfortunately, is suffering from a terrible, terrible case of a broken heart. But no matter how messed up I am I've <span style="font-style: italic;">accepted</span> the workings of life. It began with the earlier post (<a style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://violeta-sparkledfemme.blogspot.com/2010/05/breath-of-life.html">Breath Of Life</a>) and even though I fight battles inside of myself every day I understand. I accept.<br /><br />Life doesn’t stop. No matter how bruised up you are or what’s broken. It won’t wait for you to stop grieving the parts of you that you have lost.<br />You can hide all you want. Host a thousand funerals for yourself. <span style="font-weight: bold;">But life will keep going</span>.<br /><br />I have yet to master the art of sewing. To me, being whole requires the workings of a seamstress. The pieces of me are continuously changing. I am susceptible to change, to growth and evolution. Whenever a part of me is unstitched, I must find the part that will take its place- the piece that will help me on my journey to being whole.<br /><br />Like I mentioned before, this is so much easier said then done.<br />And I must admit that I'm crying. Crying because I’m not there yet. Because I know it is going to take a lot to get there.<br />But I will get there.<br />And when I get there I will probably cry too because I'm just that type of person. *Smiles*<br /><br />It's gradual, this process. It takes some losses- probably a lot more then anyone would like to think about. But remember that <span style="font-style: italic;">you</span> chose what to replace your loss with. If you chose wisely you will always gain. Always. Always.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/1zb8o7p.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">(photo <a style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/samanthalamb/">via</a>)</span><br /></div>Crystal Ballhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11182836665339377910noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108762432466903082.post-69604978787229011252010-05-29T19:49:00.001-07:002010-05-29T20:16:46.056-07:00Inked<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/112hd1h.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:78%;" >Photos via weheartit.com</span><br /></div><br />So I've been thinking...<br /><br />and thinking...<br /><br />and thinking some more.<br /><br />And I think, that maybe, most likely, I'm going to get inked.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Soon.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">Ish.</span><br /><br /><br />I have vague ideas about the ones I want. The problem is placing the correct one in the correct spot of my body.<br /><br />I'll keep thinking.Crystal Ballhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11182836665339377910noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108762432466903082.post-91038944983272575872010-05-29T00:11:00.000-07:002010-05-29T00:52:10.319-07:00TumblrI can't help but notice how much time I've been spending on Tumblr blogs like <a href="http://bunnymitford.tumblr.com/">Bunny Mitford</a> and <a href="http://lovelybluepony.tumblr.com/">Blue Pony</a>. I have a lot of quotes, poetry and photographs that I've been saving for months now and I think its about time I begin a little Tumblr of my own. Aside from featuring art from other poets, photographers and musicians, I will also share my photography and my poetry.
<br />I'm by no means going to abandon this blog, I simply will be using Tumblr as an electronic diary of inspiration- a collection of things that I love. So if you'd like to follow me or view my Tumblr, click <a href="http://softskeleton-.tumblr.com/">here</a>.
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<br /></div><span style="font-style: italic;">P.S. A special little hello to all the new followers <3</span>
<br />Crystal Ballhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11182836665339377910noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108762432466903082.post-77336454226216976822010-05-27T01:00:00.001-07:002010-05-27T01:02:01.551-07:00I Thought She Was Her<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/34grozk.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i48.tinypic.com/2w58rv6.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">I thought she was her<br />and she is<br />but sometimes she forgets<br />and I wonder<br />and wander<br /><br />-- Saul Williams<br /></div>Crystal Ballhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11182836665339377910noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108762432466903082.post-29452175561319747122010-05-26T01:06:00.001-07:002010-05-26T01:08:30.759-07:00In The DarkThe dark<span style="font-style: italic;">room</span> to be more specific.<br />It was my home for the last couple of months. My favorite place in my little college campus. Looking at the prints develop right before my eyes- true magic- dictated my belief that for three or four hours of the day I was somewhat of a sorceress. Don't get me wrong though- my magic failed me time and time again but overall I'm happy with what I accomplished.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">(Some of these scanned terribly, so bear with me.)</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/k3qja1.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/2cysa9t.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i46.tinypic.com/o5bciu.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/r8z1ps.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i48.tinypic.com/66bz4k.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /></div>Crystal Ballhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11182836665339377910noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108762432466903082.post-82297855463617198252010-05-24T23:34:00.000-07:002010-05-25T00:06:00.326-07:00Breath Of LifeThings are changing. My love for words is sharpening- growing deeper. It must be the season. Summer brings many new breaths. My absence was much needed from this blog. I didn’t know what I was doing with it before and to some obtuse degree I still don’t. All I know is that this summer will be one of changes. Changes that will resonate in my interiors and some that will resonate externally. I will become an interior decorator and I will paint my walls the colors I chose- whatever feels right.<br /><br />This year went by in high speed blinks. I fell in love with a soft skeleton and came to realize, foolishly, that skeletons don’t have hearts. But it was beautiful while it lasted. My breathing was sweeter and the moonless skies lit our skin with grace. I went for months without gifting my journal with a single verse and on many levels I have the skeleton to thank for bringing me back. I am flooded with words and thoughts that don’t die by the time they reach a page. They linger until I have caught them all and given them life. It’s strange and beautiful how one individual can give life to another. I hope my words will do the same.<br /><br />I’m finding peace now. I’ve moved the furniture in my room and I’m in the process of moving the furniture of my body. I finally understood the beauty in emptiness and a couple nights ago had an eye-opening conversation with Alma. I cried at the terrible emptiness of grief. I cried but I accepted its beauty. She said failure is evolution and I realized my tears were not so heavy anymore. Ellie was in another room of my house, some high pitched conversation resonating around. I cried and she laughed- completely unaware of my epiphany. It was such a beautiful moment. Stimulating. I was surrounded by emotions and I never felt more alive in the smallness of my room. I was evolving- I <span style="font-style: italic;">am</span> evolving. I am changing and growing and living.<br /><br />I am my own antimatter. I chose what I will accept to be defeat and this summer I will rid myself of what no longer is a part of me and strive to pick up what will be. Good music will by my backdrop and art will fuel my desires. My symmetry is fading and I'm not scared. I'm embracing the possibilities of not being adhered to any mold and, ultimately, that is what I'm anticipating for this blog as well. Iron & Wine in the background and a lot of possibility in the air- I am so excited for this new breath of life.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i46.tinypic.com/qq66pz.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /></div>Crystal Ballhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11182836665339377910noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108762432466903082.post-72033015977322193742010-05-23T23:58:00.000-07:002010-05-24T00:05:50.367-07:00The Nostalgic's HeadquartersI’ve memorized this room<br />It’s perimeter<br />Each ridge of the cold floor<br />I’ve memorized it’s heartbeat<br />A soft beating, blood like milk that runs through the veins of the walls.<br /><br />I’ve memorized this room<br />And all it’s widowed thoughts<br />Prolific beginnings but now disposed fetuses lying<br />To be forgotten in the deepness of the furniture.<br /><br />I’ve memorized this room<br />And I’ve listened intently<br />To it’s chambered music that doesn’t disguise<br />The quiet pain that echoes in the unfanned air.<br /><br />I’ve memorized this room<br />And all it’s terminology<br />There is blood in the walls and death in the sheets<br />My flaws hung like an item on display and grief like liquid gold<br />Glittering in the stillness.<br />I’ve memorized this room but all you see are painted walls and lack of space.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i46.tinypic.com/2wf8pli.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /></div>Crystal Ballhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11182836665339377910noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108762432466903082.post-1420549361116221392010-04-09T15:53:00.000-07:002010-04-09T16:16:52.111-07:00A Day In The CityYesterday a couple friends and I took a trip up to San Francisco. We walked and took the bus to different stretches of the city and eventually made our way to Pier 39. Although I have been to the city my fair share of times, I had never seen Pier 39. I managed to take four rolls of film throughout the day with my Minolta before I accidentally dropped it on the concrete floor and shattered the inside mirror! I spoke to an employee of a photo shop up near Union Square and he said the repair might be pricey which is a complete bummer. Either way, I'm really excited to get the photographs developed and will be sharing those in a later post. I think that even if I were to accomplish my goal of moving there in two years time to attend a university, the tourist-y vibe will never fade away. Knowing myself I will probably never want to go outside without at least one camera in hand and generally it's the ones with the cameras who aren't natives.<br />I can't believe how quickly this week has gone by. Has it gone by just as quickly to you? Classes at my college will be resuming this Monday and I still feel like I have more to accomplish before Spring Break is officially over.<br />I will be hosting a little giveaway soon in appreciation of all you wonderful people who support my little blog. Have a lovely weekend and until then here is a preview of yesterday's wonderful trip.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.tinypic.com/14jc75e.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.tinypic.com/23ud7yc.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.tinypic.com/ixe3i8.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i43.tinypic.com/6hm74o.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.tinypic.com/2n10rp.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.tinypic.com/29zq839.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /></div>Crystal Ballhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11182836665339377910noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108762432466903082.post-20422399764554166402010-04-05T19:33:00.001-07:002010-04-05T20:12:57.119-07:00Phantom<div style="text-align: center;">Because there is a dark side to all of us.<br /></div><br /><center><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.tinypic.com/28woxo0.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i42.tinypic.com/2ldvjaf.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i42.tinypic.com/mkpkm.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.tinypic.com/24kz53p.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.tinypic.com/set15x.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i40.tinypic.com/t53ak8.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i41.tinypic.com/f0z23b.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /></center>Crystal Ballhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11182836665339377910noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108762432466903082.post-86463211336358823592010-04-02T20:10:00.000-07:002010-04-02T21:43:35.069-07:00Featured Photographer: Igor Drozdowski<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i42.tinypic.com/281t37p.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i42.tinypic.com/33ze2hc.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i41.tinypic.com/1zl6ljb.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div><br />I am head over heels for Polish photographer <a style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://www.igordrozdowski.com/">Igor Drozdowski's</a> work so I couldn't help but <span style="font-style: italic;">not </span>feature him (her? I couldn't find anything on his/her biography anywhere and sadly I don't know whether this photographer is a he or she) as this week's featured photographer. The use of lighting to emphasize beauty is just the thing I want to master.<br /><br />I'm finally on Spring Break and couldn't be happier. Is anybody else in Spring Break? Are you guys doing anything exciting?Crystal Ballhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11182836665339377910noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108762432466903082.post-14778433217644163272010-03-26T19:17:00.001-07:002010-03-26T21:31:42.996-07:00PrimaveraOne eight page essay, one presentation and response, two midterms down and spring break just a week away- I feel like I can finally take a breather. Today I indulged in some sleeping in and picture taking- pictures which I am very excited about and can't wait to share with you all next week. For now I will be sharing an older set that was taken while partnering with one of my lovely muses, Ellie.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i43.tinypic.com/2mq6lg8.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.tinypic.com/4qoadj.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i42.tinypic.com/cryxk.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.tinypic.com/15xu3c2.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.tinypic.com/zven9f.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i42.tinypic.com/25tg5mh.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.tinypic.com/2ykndiu.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I also have some really exciting news that I must share with you all. The receptionist that works at my brother's orthodontist office used to work with a wedding photographer but recently had a baby and can't anymore. Although I wasn't present, my dad took the kind liberty of talking to her about my love for photography and desire to want to pursue it as a career. So she gave him the photographer's number and said she would refer me!!<br /><br />It turns out this wedding photographer is actually a husband & wife team (Amy & Jesse). I called and spoke to Amy, who has to be the sweetest person I have ever met in my life, and in little time we were well acquainted. And now I just might be landing a job as a part time wedding photographer assistant!!!! I was literally jumping up and down the entire time I was on the phone with her. Hopefully all goes well and I end up getting the job, even if it's just to help out once in a while. To see some of their work you can visit<span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);"> </span><a style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://nfinityproductions.com/index2.php">their website</a>.<br /><br />Oh and in other bright news, Monday I passed my DMV test. And you know what that means, right? I will be doing a lot more with my photography now that I have the opportunity to drive myself around. I can't wait!</div></div>Crystal Ballhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11182836665339377910noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108762432466903082.post-68077435150600812952010-03-20T16:35:00.000-07:002010-03-20T17:10:27.486-07:00Purposely UntitledMy life has been so hectic lately. I have what seems like an endless amount of essays, presentations and midterms that don't seem to be completed no matter how many hours of the day I put into them. This, unfortunately, has left me with no time to blog. I'm barely just now catching a break from an eight page paper I've been working on since I woke up. Oh, poo indeed.<br />Hopefully with the end of this upcoming week I will be back on track with plenty of time to blog and most importantly to READ all of your blogs which I haven't done in so long! I truly miss it.<br /><br />On brighter news, I did get a chance to take some pictures with my friend Ellie yesterday after class. Thank goodness for the beautiful weather! I'll be sharing those photographs later on next week. Until then, here are some things that are making me realy happy: my new UO shoes, charms I've recently purchased to make jewelry for my (neglected, woops) Etsy shop and the beautiful and soothing smell of rosemary.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i42.tinypic.com/5ames4.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i40.tinypic.com/1zww9e.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.tinypic.com/2ih08xk.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">P.S. I'd like to give a little shout-out to Rebecca Alvernaz because who doesn't like a half marathon-running, Beatles-loving, gooey yolk-eating English teacher? :)<br /></div></div>Crystal Ballhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11182836665339377910noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108762432466903082.post-51738732486928995792010-03-13T11:10:00.000-08:002010-03-13T12:22:13.810-08:00A Spring Lookbook & Giveaway Winner!I literally gasped when I came across <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/sarahseven">sarahseven's shop</a> on Etsy. Her creations are probably the most romantic and beautifully feminine pieces I've ever laid eyes on. Although the weather has been rather bipolar lately, Spring surely is on it's way and having one, or two, or three (or all) garments from the shop would make for the perfect Spring lookbook.<br />The dresses look like something out of a fairytale- the pastel colors and soft fabrics are so dreamy and utterly perfect for Spring. And with lovely names like <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=38412163">Rosalie's Lipstick</a> and <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=38412735">Summer Skin</a>, it's hard not to swoon over them. The best part? Each purchase gives back an accumulated ten percent to three different charities! Now that's conscientious shopping.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i43.tinypic.com/sv3wjb.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i42.tinypic.com/2z6gmd0.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i43.tinypic.com/a5chm9.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">P.S. A special thank you to everyone who supported the Interrobang zine giveaway!<br />I have randomly selected a winner through random.org so congratulations to <a style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://deadevillizard.blogspot.com/">Lizard</a>! I will be contacting you shortly.<br /></div></div>Crystal Ballhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11182836665339377910noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108762432466903082.post-39147000925076866082010-03-08T20:22:00.001-08:002010-03-08T21:55:48.337-08:00Featured Photographer: Cédric BihrThe affirmative decision of aiming for a photography degree on my part has recently been decided. Now more than ever I've been surrounding myself with different photographic inspiration in hope to feed my growing appetite for improvement. I've decided to start a little feature on Powder Blue where I feature a photographer every so often- preferably once a week. This will give me a more adamant reason to find more blogging time all the while expanding my photographic inspiration archives.<br />So who better to start with then the ridiculously talented French photographer <a style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://www.cedricbihr.com/">Cedric Bihr</a>? What I find so appealing about him is his range of aesthetic ability. His portfolio encompasses a wide range of subjects and his malleability is highly desirable.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i48.tinypic.com/6fxd0i.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/2vvqjh5.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/33f4vbc.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i48.tinypic.com/9tjxnl.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/17r493.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div><br />If his photography hasn't won over your heart, then perhaps<span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);"> </span><a style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://www.garancedore.fr/en/2009/11/05/where-the-heart-is/">this encounter</a><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);"> </span>Garance D<span>oré</span> had with him will. I highly suggest you take a look!<br /><br />P.S. I urge you to support independent art and enter the <a style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://violeta-sparkledfemme.blogspot.com/2010/02/interrobang-magazine-interview-giveaway.html">Interrobang giveaway</a> that will end this weekend.Crystal Ballhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11182836665339377910noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108762432466903082.post-48439013242056920572010-02-27T11:04:00.000-08:002010-02-27T13:47:18.588-08:00Interrobang Magazine: Interview & GiveawayI came across <a style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/interrobangmagazine">Interrobang</a>, a bi-monthly zine created by Sarah Marshall and Lou Horvath, about a month ago while browsing through Etsy. When I read that they were taking poetry and short story submissions, I decided to give a shot. After exchanging a few emails with Sarah, it was decided that one of my short stories, <span style="font-style: italic;">Porcelain Girl</span>, would be featured in<span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);"> </span><a style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=41608441">issue five</a>!<br />To learn more about Interrobang's creators and the zine itself, read the interview below.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/20s7o87.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"></span></div><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"><br />What is Interrobang Magazine?</span><br />Interrobang is a self-published, bi-monthly online and print magazine that features poetry, short stories, art, and music.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Lou:</span> In the title page for each zine, it says that Interrobang is a magazine established by Lou and Sarah. Sarah's choice of "established" is apt. One of its meanings is: "to introduce and cause to grow and multiply." That seems like a way forward.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">When did Interrobang Magazine begin?</span><br />We began to work on the first issue in the summer of 2009.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"> </span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">What is some background information of the zine's creators?</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sarah:</span> I am currently a senior in high school and will be moving to New York City in the fall to attend Parsons the New School for Design. At the time that Interrobang was established, I was primarily interested in fine art photography, which I had been doing for about three years. The zine has since piqued my interest in experimenting with other forms of art, including collage, mixed media work, and drawing.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Lou:</span> Bachelor's degree in History, Master's in Counseling Psychology, recently retired after 15 years evaluating the work potential of people with disabilities. Lived, wrote, did odd jobs in Pittsburgh, California, the New York North Country, DelMarVa peninsula, Manhattan (1971-1989). Currently residing in hometown with 14 year-old son, Dante.<br /><br />Published poems, prose, some collages and criticism in magazines such as: The Paris Review (first poem, 1972), Sun and Moon (Sun and Moon also published a chapbook of poems, VU), Telephone, Benzene, Smegma, Nice, La Bas, Truce, Ararat, Arete, Konglomerati, The Pittsburgh Quarterly (Print, and On-line, which serialized my novel, The Vulture and the Mother).<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Why did you choose the name "Interrobang?"</span><br />Many different names were considered, but "Interrobang" seemed to work best. An interrobang is a punctuation mark that combines an exclamation point with a question mark. This symbol is used on the first page and back cover of every issue.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/2dm6mjd.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">What is the process of developing and publishing a zine?</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sarah:</span> We work on our projects individually and then decide what we feel should be included in the issue. When our ideas are in place, I begin to design the page layouts. We e-mail the spreads back and forth, offering feedback to one another, until the pages are complete. The issue is printed in relatively small quantities, and then bound, using either a sewing machine or binding it by hand. The zine is then listed on etsy and copies are distributed to a local bookstore. Recently we have created an online edition of Interrobang, so the final process of publishing an issue is uploading it to issuu.com and posting it to our blog.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Lou:</span> Sarah is the driving force of Interrobang. Since she is the visual artist, she is the eye of the zine and gives it its look. She came up with the current format and she even has sewn the pages of the zine together with thread provided by her grandmother. With the introduction of the music playlists in issue two, she has provided our readers with a unique and interesting feature.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Where or from what do you gather inspiration for each issue?</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sarah:</span> I generally don't obtain direct inspiration from anything in particular. Usually the inspiration stems from the medium itself when I'm creating work for the zine. Most of the processes (collage and mixed media) are new to me, so I really just experimenting most of the time.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Do you have any long term goals for Interrobang Magazine?</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Lou:</span> We haven't talked at all, about a "philosophy" of the zine. It's always been about the mutual admiration of each other’s work. We use what each of us comes up with, if we agree on it (including poems by Betsy Sherrier in issues one and two). I have had the opportunity of contributing poems, prose, translations from the Russian language, a chronology of my novel, The Vulture and the Mother. Currently working on a short story, Peck Slip Blues, which will be serialized beginning in I5. In future issues I’d like to turn a critical eye toward literature for which I have a high regard. With issue five, we will welcome two new writers (new for us) to the zine. I look forward to reading many more submissions as we continue.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sarah:</span> Interrobang has been a very interesting, rewarding project that I truly enjoy. I hope to continue to publish the zine for quite some time. It would be really great to continue to feature contributions from talented writers and artists and increase our readership with every issue as well.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i47.tinypic.com/ouo0u8.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The two lovely creators of Interrobang magazine are giving a free copy of <a style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=41608441">issue five</a> to one lucky reader.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">How can you win?</span></span><br />Simply leave a comment below. If you don't have a blog then please leave an email address so you can be contacted if you are the winner. This giveaway is open to international readers.<br />To gain an extra entry, blog/tweet about this giveaway. Leave a link in a comment.<br />The giveaway will run for two weeks and a winner will be chosen randomly March 13th.<br /><br />And remember to visit Interrobang's <a style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://interrobangmagazine.blogspot.com/">blog</a> and<span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);"> </span><a style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/interrobangmagazine">Etsy shop</a> to show your support for independent artists.<br /><br />P.S. I also encourage you to visit Sarah's <a style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/sarahphotographer/">photostream</a>. Aside from being a huge driving force behind the zine, she is also a very talented photographer.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Crystal Ballhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11182836665339377910noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108762432466903082.post-9134530710161885012010-02-26T11:56:00.000-08:002010-02-26T13:06:00.744-08:00Book Lovers Never Go To Bed AloneI have just sunk into book euphoria and I don't have any intentions of being pulled out.<br />I'm in my own personal utopia here, swimming among all of these books and all I can manage to say is thank you to this amazing <a href="http://bookshelves.tumblr.com/">Tumblr</a> for providing a jaw dropping collection of beautiful and inspiring photographs of libraries big and small and everywhere in between. If you're a book lover like myself, I highly suggest you <a href="http://bookshelves.tumblr.com/">take a look</a> but I must warn you: it's highly addicting.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i46.tinypic.com/w1cmyb.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/2hfjklu.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/2641j89.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div>"Here's to books, the cheapest vacation you can buy." — Charlaine Harris<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-weight: normal;">Amen to that.</span></span>Crystal Ballhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11182836665339377910noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108762432466903082.post-76654624372870040162010-02-23T18:47:00.000-08:002010-02-23T23:02:00.437-08:00Hush Little Baby<div style="text-align: left;">Baby, tiny as a handful<br /></div>You fit so neatly in the palms of my hands<br />Doe eyes, porcelain skin and silken strands on your marshmallow top<br />That I admire each golden morning as it glistens near the rising tributary<br />Your eyes melt into the rippling water and glisten when the shoreline touches your delicate ankles<br /><br />Between the fall of the moon and the rise of the sun<br />You effortlessly slid through my freckled arms and crawled somniferously to the ascending bank<br />Small body in a trance, curiosity glowing like the moonlight on your tender skin<br />And as I lay sleeping, dreaming of your warm breath on the curve of my breast<br />Your body, in rapid gulps, was swallowed by the speeding currents<br /><br />I heard your weeping call and frantically ran to each corner of the house<br />Emptiness hung in each room and softly called out to the rising trickle of the river<br />So I ran to it unaware that my bare feet left droplets of blood on the sharpened twigs that lay fallen on the earth<br />And despite my rapid movements, I was too late for the river took your faster then it took my breath<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i47.tinypic.com/140j6fm.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />Only the deer will see you now<br />As you travel down the muddy banks of the river<br />And although the river took you faster then it took my breath<br />It forgot to take my tears- my tears that are mine to drown in<br />Falling like waterfalls and causing currents to ride up my crimson-stained feet<br /><br />I cry in deep torrents and watch the water ride up my shaken body<br />Engulfing my pores and restricting my limbs<br />Each tear that crashes around me another reminder that you're sailing further<br />I cry harder, deeper, stronger and the unrelenting current builds up and takes me away<br />As it follows the echos of your shaken cries<br /><br />Now we're both sailing on the platform of our backs<br />Keep your head above the water for the deer will watch over you<br />And the water will cradle you and become my freckled arms<br />Sweet baby, wipe away the tears on your lashes<br />For I will be there to hum lullabies in your ear soon<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i47.tinypic.com/15ow8ys.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />© Crystal Ball<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Picture credits:<span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);"> </span></span><a style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://weheartit.com/">1</a><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">, </span><a style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jon-edwards/2205507221/">2</a><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">, </span><a style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://weheartit.com/">3</a>Crystal Ballhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11182836665339377910noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108762432466903082.post-17928164733732178212010-02-20T15:27:00.000-08:002010-02-20T20:59:09.706-08:00The Final Pages<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/5y6dyv.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div>I've been on a rather frenzied search across a good portion of the internet as well as local stores such as Borders & Barnes & Noble for a new journal. My recent journal is almost completely filled and has been with me for over four years. I purchased it with googly eyes and a gift card my Godmother had gifted me a couple months before my fourteenth year. I was so in love with this journal (considering it was one of the prettiest things I owned, so grown up looking and worth more money than I would have ever phantom spending at once on my own account) that it remained completely empty for nearly two years. I couldn't bear the thought of ruining its beauty with ugly handwriting or scribbles and adolescent thoughts.<br />When I finally got the courage to write in it, it became the bearer of the many layers of myself. I would write anything from quotes and ideas to lists and scratchy doodles. I suffered a long four years of an on again/off again love for it; going for periods of time were it would follow me wherever my destination was and other times when it would be forgotten in the shadows of my desk or between piles of paperbacks on my bookshelves. And now after the transformations it has endured with me, I am ready for a new one.<br />Surely you must see why it is so important that I chose the <span style="font-style: italic;">perfect</span> journal. After all, it has to endure me more than I have to endure it. :)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/ej945v.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div>Etsy has proved to be one of the best places, with the largest variety of journals that have caught my attention. Moleskines are sounding very appealing and although I was originally on the lookout for a larger journal, a smaller one that can be a lot easier to carry around sounds like a good candidate. And it doesn't hurt that they have beautifully illustrated covers, does it? Not one bit.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/28ro9ib.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=36737928">One</a><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">, </span><a style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=39423851">Two</a><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">, </span><a style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28158207">Three</a><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">, </span><a style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=38452125">Four</a><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">, </span><a style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=40877462">Five</a><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">, </span><a style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=38491214">Six</a><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">, </span><a style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=40049413">Seven</a><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">, </span><a style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=37065197">Eight</a><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Do you have a journal? </span></span><br /></div>Crystal Ballhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11182836665339377910noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108762432466903082.post-23243325066454582292010-02-17T19:14:00.000-08:002010-02-17T20:45:53.211-08:00A Sunny AppearanceThe sun has finally come out, the almond trees are blooming and the sunsets seem prolonged and warmer. Alma and I decided to make the most of the birth of an early Spring by taking a walk on a sunny Monday afternoon. While juggling a film camera, a digital camera and our bags, we stopped by two abandoned houses and explored the hidden beauties of the soiled carpet and shattered windows and all the remains of the people who once lived there.<br />I've lived in my hometown all my life and even I who carries her camera(s) practically everywhere and is personally trained to see what nobody else sees was at a loss for the beauty and the possibilities that every hidden and unhidden place revealed.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i46.tinypic.com/2lcn4zl.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i47.tinypic.com/2wefo8w.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i47.tinypic.com/2v10w7d.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i46.tinypic.com/333ia2t.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/2rrncyw.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/106ni11.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/98vn9x.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/161f2id.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i46.tinypic.com/2w7r18w.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i46.tinypic.com/vh52eq.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /></center><br /><br />P.S.<br />If you have any questions about me or anything blog or photography related, you can ask me on my <a style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);" href="http://www.formspring.me/missball">Formspring</a>.Crystal Ballhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11182836665339377910noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108762432466903082.post-79771750023871056362010-02-12T21:07:00.000-08:002010-02-13T18:59:49.964-08:00Incurable: Self Portraits<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/280sb5t.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /></div><center><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/295amat.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i48.tinypic.com/4j5px5.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/nweg0i.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i46.tinypic.com/2cyjuv8.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i47.tinypic.com/14uzxj9.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/339k07a.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i46.tinypic.com/ejhmbp.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/30mleop.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i47.tinypic.com/2d9r8yo.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><br /></center>Crystal Ballhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11182836665339377910noreply@blogger.com19