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.
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.
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.
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!
The cicadas are singing their summer melody and the heat is all enveloping making it hard to breathe at times but the crew is getting through the day with minimum complaints. As long as no one is hungry or tired happiness exudes on the kid's faces just from being out and about.
My kids have been very social expecting to have many occasions and outings this summer. Our summer calendar was jam packed this season with summer camp, kindermusik classes, our weekly jaunt to the Kohl Children's Museum, live concerts at the park, and the summer reading program at the library.
The Museum offerings are bountiful. (Check out my review on yelp). Our routine included capping off the day with a hot pretzel. We learned that the Bavarian pretzel(lightly salted) from Kim & Scott's Pretzel Bakery & Twisting Cafe was an okay order for the milk allergy family member. The chocolate chip pretzel was also a sure bet for the peanut/egg allergy member of the family. The deal was sweetened when I scored a Buy one Get one Free coupon out of the Oaklee's Guide Summer 2008. I used one coupon each time we visited the museum. The library stacks gads of these small booklets next to the free Chicago Parent circular and Chicago Baby magazine.
Summer camp brought on new experiences and allowed my children to socialize, become involved in structured activities, and free play in a fun and creative atmosphere. Different art projects hang on the kitchen walls from each child. They are proud of the their work and like to display their efforts week to week.
It's funny that by the end of the Summer Camp schedule the kids have finally 'caught on' to the new ideas that have been presented to them from the start. For example, my oldest son ate all the lunch that was given to him on his last day. Prior to this, he would only eat the snack chips and cookie and disregard the sandwich and apple slices. Or he would take two bites of mac and cheese, and then wait to buy a snack at the pool concession stand. The choices at the concession stand consisted of soft serve ice cream, pretzel with cheese, or barbecue potato chips. It was the first all-day activity experience without mom or dad.
Another son of mine enjoyed his first camp/class without mommy and without his older sibling. His first day he was labeled an observer and chose to watch instead of participate. After explaining to him that he should become more involved, a realization came over his face, he understood that he did not have to wait for big brother or mommy to have fun. It's almost like he found his own interests, and independence, his own identity. He would exclaim to me after every class, "Mommy I was happy today with my teachers and friends!"
As for my youngest, and only daughter, she understood that her "pretty dress" that she adamantly asks to wear is set aside for the requisite camp shirt and shorts(or skirt). By her last class, all the kids understood the concept of circle time and everyone sang "If You Are Happy and You Know It..." I loved that the she got down and dirty with the paints and the glue and the playdoh, she understood that it was okay to get her hands messy. Best of all, I did not have to worry about stains or spills, because it was not my house.
Kindermusik classes allowed for us to keep in touch with our music classmates and their p-units. "Creatures in the Ocean" was the theme of the class. We learned about dolphins, and whales, sharks, crabs, the beach, and Sailboats. We loved it best when we jammed and danced to the tunes.The kids love music and especially parades. The July 4th parade was an extra special treat with marching bands. The kids enjoyed the cultural dance and festive costumes.
The Concert in the Park series introduced the kids to jugglers, magicians, and musicians with their eclectic beat, and some 'cheesy' jokes. It also allowed me an outlet to meet other moms and caregivers whom like me look for engaging activities for the kids.
The Summer Reading program has been a huge success and encourages the kids to enjoy reading. After reading a book (or books)the kids are given the opportunity to report the details of the book to a volunteer, play an age-appropriate game, and receive a small prize. Prizes ranged from Panera meal coupons, to plastic animal print sunglasses, to mood rings and even medals. The kids have read almost 100 books this summer.
The program introduced the kids to a new favorite author and book series. Ricky Ricotta and his Mighty Robot by Dav Pilkey and pictures by Martin Ontiveros. The series is one of the first enjoyable chapter books that has opened our eyes to "The Big Battle (In Flip-O-Rama). This series is a must read to find out who wins.
Summer Camp is officially over and I fret over what activities to do to fill up the last of the summer days. Summer is winding down and talks of Christmas party planning (yes believe it, heard over the yelp message boards) is making my head spin.
When the cicadas finish their musical score, it will be about time to pack the summer clothes away and ready for the start of school. School supply lists are out and crossing off checklist supplies looks to be an arduous task.
As of yet, a whole month remains for backyard barbecues, farmer's markets, and outdoor festivals. I will be cliche and say, "We still have the time to soak in as much of this summer sun and not let Summer lovin' happen so fast."
I create this next post dedicated to granules of sand.
The beach would not Be without it, a castle would never be built. It can flow with the water and move with gentle ease. It scratches soft baby skin, yet can make smooth rough callus feet. Sand will stick to skin like glue and maneuver a way to hide in every crevice.
After a long day at the beach, and what seemed like an even longer time in the car ride home, tiny granules of sand are seen everywhere. On the car seat, in my shoes, on the kid's noses, and even between baby's butt, sand pervades our being, from only one day of romping and running and molding and shaping this sand.
I am reminded of how wonderful a holiday can be when sand and surf and sun can enliven a soul. I remember the times I would visit the beach growing up. I especially remember the first touch of the burning sand on my feet and trying to run as fast as I can toward the water to cool my piggy toes. I did that today with my children and reminded them every burning step of the way that relief was not too far away. After seeing the pure innocent joy on the faces of my children, I feel that I in some way imposed this feeling upon them. This childhood memory is now imprinted upon them and will also be recalled every time they visit the beach.
After a day of merriment and camaraderie, the kids are way tired, and are in no mood to wash off and bathe. They would rather sleep soundly and feel itchy and scratchy with sand hiding all over their body. Fortunately, for my kids, I am fast and efficient with their baths and have them tucked into bed for the night.
Following the advice of a friend I started this blog. I have been compiling all the images here from past events, gatherings, and situations. I will continue to chronicle as far into the future as I can see. Enjoy!
