Rock the Vote

I did it this morning. I anticipated long lines and wait times. My polling place changed this year because the tsunami rain storm/flood that occurred in September ruined the clubhouse over at Sleepy Hollow.

I prepared myself for the long list of judges, and scribbled the names on an old water bill envelope. I was in and out in record time. I utilized the touch screen and casted my vote.
I brought my son along with me to check out the process. He watched and was quiet and he observed how I checked off my chosen candidates. I was proud to have him come along and was thankful that he was off from school for the day. My son is asleep now and I had to resist the urge to wake him up to see history being made. I wanted him to hear the concession speech of McCain. Obama's speech is still up-and-coming. I'm sure he will hear the updates on tomorrow's news. It may not mean anything to him now, but I'm sure in his own observatory ways he will take something from this experience.

I'm getting his backpack ready for the morning rush and noticed the stickers that he has been collecting on his take-home folder. My son can recall the story behind the acquisition of each one. Like the Gabriella sticker that he was able to snag from his 2.5 year old sister. Not with force did he obtain the sticker but with his words. My son presented the take-home folder as a "cool" place to showcase the High School Musical cutie. I smile when I see the "I voted" sticker because I know he will remember how he received this sticker from the election judge. He may not know how history is being made as of this moment, but he will live in this moment's time of change.

The choices I make

I am a couponer. I love knowing that any item in the store can be bought for $1 or less. You do not believe me? I did not believe it either. Until I started collecting coupons and checking out weekly sales ads. I became coupon savvy with the help of Hot Coupon World. I would stand in line and make the cashier's eyes pop open when I pulled out my stack of coupons. I love watching the register minus .50 cents, .75cents, $1, and so forth. My receipts tallied that I saved $20 or more on my grocery trip. I did get a few customers behind me in line who would role their eyes, probably due to the fact that I was wasting their time. I use to apologize for 'inconvenience' that I caused. And then I thought about it, Who are they? The people rolling their eyes because they have to wait an extra 1.5 minutes to have my coupons scanned. The customers behind me did not pay my grocery bill, so why should I even care what they thought. I made my decision based on what I knew was the best choice for my pocket book, and ultimately for myself and my family.

I recently bought pumpkins and chose the ones that I liked. I chose from a plethora of stemless, bumpy, craggy and oddly shaped ones , to smooth and symmetrical ones with out any blemishes. I figured I liked the bumpy and craggy ones more than the 'perfect' pumpkins. I made my decisions based on personal preference.



I make decisions all the time throughout the day. I am faced with decisions from the time I wake up to the time that I go to sleep and close my eyes. When I wake up I am faced with the decision of, 'Will I let my alarm snooze 9 minutes longer?' (impossible for that since my early morning risers do not have external snooze buttons). Everyday I make decisions for my children based on what works best for them, and for me. I already know what makes them cranky. They whine and cry when they are hungry, tired, uncomfortable, or sick. There are some 'in-between' factors, but these are the main reasons. I listen to advice given to me, but ultimately, I make the decision. I make my decision based on what is in my kids' best interest and in the interest of myself and my husband. Only time will tell if they will grow up to be a lady and gentlemen. For now here are images of the little devils that pull my tender heart strings.

The Friendly Confines...Through the Years.

Growing up on the north side it was inevitable that I was to be a Cubs fan. Watching the game on television was always my connection. I have only been to the ball game a handful of times. Each time was always different. The constant feeling sitting in Wrigley field was the 'want' for the Cubs to win. Fans are ecstatic for their team.


Throughout the years the Cubs remain the team to sell out at a 30,000+ seat capacity.



Many occasions rekindle my memories of watching a live Cubs game. There was the 10K walk to Wrigley Field from my high school. Walking up to the ticket line a couple times in college to catch 100 level seats behind first base. I had eyes for Mark Grace at that time. Not to mention, at this time, my college days I had no money for food only the ticket. I resorted to hiding my subway sandwich and canned pop deep inside my back pack. I remember watching the Cubs lose against the Florida Marlins against their star pitcher, Josh Beckett. I had to sit in second tier seating. This is seating that makes me dizzy and my feet sweaty from looking down like I'm on a roller coaster ride.


Then there was the ultimate when my husband and I brought our oldest son to watch the Cubs play against the Washington Nationals. On my way to the ladies room I was pleasantly surprised to meet Ryne Sandberg. He signed my baseball cap, but I failed to take any pictures.

I recently attended a Cubs game vs the St. Louis Cardinals.
No, it was not the game that clinched the 2008 N.L. Central Division. I attended the Friday game, the Cubs lost 6-12.


Score card cost $5


I did not hide food in my bag this time, and I was able to watch one of my favorite players take the mound. Carlos Zambrano, I *heart* you!






My husband and I maximized the time we had with our babysitters and ate at Harry Caray's Tavern for pre-game noshing. Check out my yelp review. Then we cheered on the Cubs to rally against the 5-0 score after the first inning. We all have our bad days, right?

Some Cubs fans enjoyed watching other things.


We exchanged pleasantries with rival Cards fans, and enjoyed the atmosphere of watching the game. Once the sun headed west behind the stadium, temps started to cool down, and true Cubs fans stayed until the last out. I will always remember the sights and sounds of a Cubs game and can not wait to share this experience with my children.

Make a wish...

 The Beatles - Happy Birthday



With the end of summer shouting out a last hooray, there have been many celebrations to mark the advent of fall. These celebrations culminate with mine and my son's birthday (a birthday also shared with my father), Labor day holiday, mine and my husband's wedding anniversary, and finally my husband's birthday. Within a two weeks time span these events take place and for some reason it is always my husband's birthday that falls under the radar. Looking back through the years, September 16 passes by as a low key type of day.

Today marks my husband's birthday. We did not plan any special events, per my husband's request, he did not want to celebrate with a usual lunch/dinner celebration. The day started off like any other day. Wake up, get ready for work, wake the kids, feed the kids, and send the kids off to school. This has been the routine since school started. My husband even took out the garbage this morning before heading off to work with a brown bag lunch of a sandwich, pretzels, and water. Piano class and nightly schedules ensue which make it difficult to plan a celebration for later tonight.


We are looking to celebrate his birthday later this week by being in attendance at one of America's best past times, a baseball game. He looks forward to the day, and has stated that he would rather celebrate his birthday watching the game. I too look forward to the end of the week, but a part of me does not want this day to go down in the books without a few traditions which I like to hold close.

Of course with me, food is always key for celebrating a birthday. One tradition in our family is presenting a noodle dish to signify long life. I'm not sure what type of noodle dish to serve, because my pantry is tapped out of spaghetti noodles. I have corkscrew pasta noodles, but does that count? I also carry the rice stick noodle, but my husband is not a fan of pancit.

Blowing out candles on a birthday cake is also a tradition. If not so much for the kids, but also to mark this day as a special day. No I'm not going to order the sheet cake from Costco. Not to mention, my husband is also not the sweet tooth type of guy. He can forgo dessert, especially chocolate. He is not a big fan of sugar. I guess that is why he maintains a slim physique. I'll find something at the store, possibly single serving size.

And last but not least, a Hallmark type of greeting wishing many birthday wishes adds prominence to the day. Now I know my husband. He does not share this same sentiment for his birthday. So instead the kids and I have fashioned our own Birthday wishes, and plastered it to the wall.


Happy Birthday Paul! Your birthday years in numbers may seem like only that, numbers, but your life has shown many accomplishments. Your dedication to your family both immediate and extended are admirable. You try to give what you can and still continue to do so when there seems no more to give. (Do you really want me to be more specific, here in cyber space?) Your family is proud of you and look up to you, more than you know. I speak for our children as well when I say, We Love You!

Added Little Twist

I recently checked my yelp account and found a compliment from a fellow yelper liking my review for Kim and Scott's Pretzel Bakery and Twisting Cafe. I love compliments for my reviews. This particular review was written some time ago. Read my yelp review.

I remember way back when I wrote this review. I had been on a role reading the kids books from the works of Shel Silverstein and Dr. Seuss. You know the books that you grew up reading. One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish... Once there was a tree, and she grew up loving a little boy...

Thinking about how I wanted to convey my thoughts on the place, I came to the conclusion that an Ode was in order. It has been almost a year since I wrote my review. With the advent of this new endeavor of photography I am both ecstatic and proud to have my work recognized. I was pleased to read a personal message accompanied the compliment from the same yelper. The message stated, "Kim & Scott, of Kim & Scott's Gourmet Pretzels, would love to feature your review on their Blog." It is an honor to be recognized by a local business with whom I support. Especially with the start of this particular company. I remember reading about the couple that started the pretzel business and was pleasantly surprised to find a brick and mortar store close to home. Check out the feature of my review at Kim and Scott's blog. The links to my blog site are not actual links but the info is correct.



An added twist to all this doughy goodness is shared with all my readers. A special discount applies for every order placed through Kim and Scott's website. You can get 10% off pretzels online with this code: PretZiola10.

School is in Session

With a bit of sadness in my heart and a touch of nostalgia, I am transitioning my family from summer fun and into the new school year. Today marks the first full day of a full week of school for my oldest son. He started first grade last week Thursday, and if I have not already told you the story, I will recount the events of Thursday morning, first day of school jitters.



August 21 Thursday
The morning alarm wakes me and my husband almost every morning between 6:00AM and 6:30AM. The alarm is my youngest daughter and her internal clock is like a rooster, at morning's first light her cries force us to open our eyes, get up, and out of bed. This particular morning was greeted with an explainable fervor. I was up for the challenge of welcoming this day with a prioritized schedule of preparing myself, and my son, and the rest of the family with minimum delay. The yellow bus was scheduled to arrive for a pickup time of 8:20ish.

7:30AM The coffee was percolating and the kids were sitting haphazardly at their table with jelly sandwiches and milk. It was at this time, while I was in the bathroom, that my son proclaims to his dad, "I do not want to go to school" Just like that with no explanation, he just did not want to go. My husband and I tag teamed the rest of the morning trying to figure out what event led up to this statement. What could be the logical explanation for this unexpected comment? Not wanting to go to school, a statement coming from a boy who has been looking forward to this day since the end of Kindergarten. Since the end of summer camp my son had been checking off the days from his calendar, until school started. We encouraged our son's behavior for his joy of learning and followed his lead from the first time he proclaimed that he loved school.

8:10AM My son and I talked over brushing teeth, and from what I recall the conversation went.

Mommy G: How come you do not want to go to school?

KP: Because I don't want to, (sniffled cries)

Mommy G: What would you rather do?

KP: I want daddy to go to school with me?

Mommy G: Daddy is going to work?

KP: I want to stay here with you?

Mommy G: No, kids go to school.


We rambled on for the next 10 minutes or so and found ourselves outside waiting for the bus. Families dotted the curbside here and there waiting for the school bus pickup. About this time, the big boy became full of emotion and let out a waterfall of tears and cries, exclaiming, "I don't want to go to school." (add in the effects of cries in between each word).

By the time the bus arrived the cries and screams became louder and more forceful. The piercing scream hit me into a whirlwind of emotion and feelings of confusion. I mean what am I suppose to do in this case? This never happened to us before. I never even thought to prepare for this kind of situation.

In school bus pickup timing it seemed an eternity for my son to get on the bus. Cars were stopped two or three behind the school bus obeying the STOP sign that keeps cars safely from harming kids as they cross the street and enter the bus. The family down the street patiently awaited this exact bus to come around for a pick up.
The scenario only gets worse. My big boy who cuddled into my arms burying his teary eyes into my shoulder was getting loose. He was trying to get away from me because he could sense that I was inching closer and closer to the curb. Every muscle in his body was going to get him far away from me and the bus.

My son is one of the last stops on the route, which only meant that the bus was full of kids. Eyes stared out the windows, and windows started to mist up as the spectacle of a young child slipping through mom's fingers and mom running having to catch her son unfolded on the sidewalk.

With the encouragement of a seasoned mother also at the same bus stop, I was advised to get my son onto the bus. And that was what I did. I stepped up on the bus said hello to the bus driver and the rest of the kids, asked a kind girl sitting in the front seat to move her brand spanking new High School Musical backpack, strapped the belt over my son's lap, turned and left.

I fought every urge to turn around and whisk my son into my arms, wipe his tears, and calm his fears. After making sure that my son did not try to jump off at the next stop, I rushed to my phone and called the school to make them apprise of the situation. I was reassured by the kind voice on the other line that my son was in good hands and they would wait for him at school.

I waited by the phone thinking that every call was the school office telling me to come pick up my son. That call never happened and at the end of day I met my son with open arms as he stepped down from his school bus. He wasn't crying anymore, his eyes were slightly puffy, but his face was smiling.

Looking back in hindsight, it becomes clear to me that my son was nervous for his first day, and this was his way of communicating his fears. Today he was ready for school, and out the door before I could wipe up his milk mouth. The rest of his school day life time is set. This marks the beginning of daily grinds forthcoming.

Something was burdening me throughout the day, and I felt my heart heavy. I missed my son. This realisation is what makes my heart sad. My son whom I encouraged to become independent and take on new experiences and challenges is doing just that, making his own decisions and being on his own. Yes, I know what you are thinking, G he is only in first grade, what decisions will he be making? What to order from the lunch menu? Which colors to use out of his crayola box?

It was that time that we spent together no matter what it was that we did, that I had the opportunity to have with him. The whole days of figuring out what we were going to have for lunch and where we were going to eat. Figuring out who we were going to meet at the park, what the errands for the day were, and what books we were going to read before nap. I did all these things today with my two younger kids, and felt a heaviness in my heart. I missed my oldest son. He was not there during the day to help me cross the parking lot into the store (We all hold hands and he makes sure his younger brother and sister cross safely). He was not there to tell his brother and sister which slot to use at the library book return. (They always put books into the AV materials slot). And I will never have that time again to make those memories.


My son is coming home in the next ten minutes and I plan to hug and kiss him when he jumps off the school bus. The young kids are still sleeping so maybe I will be able to share a quiet moment with him. Knowing he will be home soon makes my chest feel lighter, and I know I will always keep a special place in my heart just for him.

My Darling

 Wilco - My Darling


Go back to sleep now
My darlin
And I'll keep all the bad dreams away
Breathe now, think sweet things
And I'll think of all the right words to say

Because we made you
My darlin
With the love in each of our hearts
We were a family, my darlin
Right from the start

Grow up now
My darlin
Please don't you grow up too fast
And be sure, darlin
To make all the good times last

Because we made you
My darlin
With the love in each of our hearts
We were a family, my darlin
Right from the start

I felt these words by Wilco epitomized the feelings that a parent may have for their child. Always wanting to protect, nurture, and provide the very best environment in order for the child to be happy and grow. I relate these feelings to an event that I had the honor to shoot.
In the next few images a girl was transformed into a young woman. This young woman was formally presented on a warm June day, in a celebration called a Debut. A formal introduction into society, the debut ear marks the 18th birthday, and can be a significant milestone in a girl's life. Surrounded by family and friends, this fete, included a dinner with entertainment and capped off with dancing. Enlisted for my photo capabilities, I was able to keepsake this special occasion. Alongside me were Michele from Misha Media, and Paul from KMS films. Together we were able to capture the big day. I present to you the beautiful debutante, Kathleen.

Drum Roll Please....

I am sitting here at the work station thinking how to start this next post. I have been working on a project for some time. It has been a project that has taken much time, effort, patience, and sacrifice. Not only of myself have I had to endure and overcome my uncertainties, but the experience has humbled me to be able to work amongst those who support me and have helped me to develop this project. With feelings of trepidation, I have taken small steps throughout this process.

I started the blog unbeknownst to my family and my friends. It was my hope to get the Phia Photography name "out there," and thus allowed me a time of self - reflection. My posts convey the inspiration and style of Phia Photography.

I have invited a few minds to view my blog in order to hear the constructive criticism that has helped to develop Phia Photography in it's entirety.
Most notably, Michele Rivera of Misha Media has graciously allowed me to work alongside and learn first hand the intricacies of photography, both in style and technicalities. I withheld posting images of past events and weddings worked alongside her because I wanted to present a proper introduction to my schools of thought. The experience I have had working with a wonderful photographer has left me awe - inspired. The work and artistry that is made possible from Misha Media is truly that amazing. Michele has never stopped encouraging me to 'officially' intro Phia Photography. Knowing that a great mind was at a fingertips reach has made the steps easier and has allowed this project to come to fruition.


My husband Paul with KMS Films has stood by my side from the start. Paul has been holding my hand, figuratively speaking, and supporting me throughout this endeavor. He has been my bedrock, keeping me standing on solid ground and ready to catch me in case I stumble. Paul has stayed up late at night alongside me editing and sorting through my images. Paul's videography style and outlook have easily complemented the photography aspect. We work side-by-side in our personal life and have transitioned that work ethic in our professional lives as well.


My sister Gretchen had also been privy from the start. In the face of her own struggles, she has been my sounding board and confidante. Small glimpses of Phia Photography have been seen and read from The Gregarious(and Guapo) Griffin blog. I am partly responsible for authoring posts about her family, especially her son Griffin, who is diagnosed with Leukemia. It was not my intent to author under the Phia Photography name but rather under my Gmail account which blogger.com associates with my blog. In light of the adversity of events, I have learned great strength from Gretchen, and will continue to chronicle the lives that surround her.


I would be nowhere without mentioning my wonderful children. These little kids who literally work for all things high in fructose corn syrup have been my joy. They too have had to endure my every request for unusual poses, beautiful eyes, and 'pogi' smiles. Albeit, my demands may have sounded unreasonable, but every request was equally traded off for something sweet, or else never before allowed. Let us just say that The Dairy Bar has been our summer sweet retreat.


The Phia Photography website is still under construction but will be out soon. I invite my family and friends to read the blog, and to share this blog with others whom you think would be interested.

Without further ado, I present Phia Photography. Enjoy!

Decemer 2007/January 2008



May 2008




May 2008




May 2008




June 2008




June 2008





July/August 2008