Archive for January, 2012

A Wee Bit Moore | The realities of working from home

January 31st, 2012

As anyone who works from home can tell you, there are many pros and cons to this lifestyle. I would go into more details describing both sides, but I don’t think I could explain it better than this slightly crude yet hilariously accurate depiction of Home Office Life by The Oatmeal.  It never fails to make [...]


Posted in: Personal
Expand Close
| One Comment | See Full Post
 

As anyone who works from home can tell you, there are many pros and cons to this lifestyle. I would go into more details describing both sides, but I don’t think I could explain it better than this slightly crude yet hilariously accurate depiction of Home Office Life by The Oatmeal.  It never fails to make me laugh.

 

 

 

 

I have zero difficulty owning the fact that I have succumbed to distraction by the likes of funny animals with British accents, or sexier beasts (wink) singing in suits and exercising in onesies. My schedule has admittedly gotten a bit out of whack, and the need for discipline has become more apparent. Thankfully the constant client interaction and local photographer chats has provided enough banter to keep up social skills in my work day, though I think that it is wise to get away from social media whenever possible… crafted emails and witty tweets can’t replace real conversation! I have  given in to a consistent uniform of fleece or yoga pants… but I can’t to see this as anything but glorious! Feel free to argue that stance. :)

What inspired me to write today was the realization that I have avoided the most important pitfall, at least in my life. Working from home has actually relieved stress in my relationships. I would even go as far as to say that it has improved my marriage. James and I lead such busy lives. Our marriage is certainly not perfect, but my consistent woe during our first 4 years of marriage was that I simply missed him. As he wandered into my office with a smile, asking my opinion on his outfit (thumbs up were given), I was reminded how happy I am to have more time here.

Now that we both work from home, we can enjoy more simple moments together. Making breakfast. Taking a brief break from a long day to cuddle up and watch Downton Abbey.  Impromptu dance parties. The occasional silly IM or email from the other room (that I always know is coming from the sound of his giggles).  I find myself sitting at my desk, mid-email with a bride, and hearing James laugh or catching a glance of him through the french doors, I am reminded how much I love marriage. In turn, I am reminded why I love what I do.

 

 

Cheers,

Briana

 

 

Tags / Categories / Comments

breaker

Music Monday | Of Monsters And Men

January 30th, 2012

  Of Monsters and Men | My Head is an Animal  | Little Talks Little talks     New music! Oh joy!! My good friend (and prior guest blogger) Alison raved about this album before sending it over, so I was certain it would be great. The band is described as an amiable group of [...]
 

 

Of Monsters and Men | My Head is an Animal  | Little Talks

Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.

 

 

New music! Oh joy!! :) My good friend (and prior guest blogger) Alison raved about this album before sending it over, so I was certain it would be great. The band is described as an amiable group of day dreamers who craft folkie pop songs… right up my alley!   Hailing from Iceland (a country I already adore simply based on their holding a world record for number of books per capita), this group speaks of the isolation  of their country lending to their music, and claims to often be stuck in their own world. If this is what their world produces, I hope they stick around for years to come. :)

 

Cheers,

Briana

Tags / Categories / Comments

breaker

California Love pt. 3 | World’s Cutest Nephew Award

January 27th, 2012

After leaving San Francisco, James and I took the familiar roads leading to my hometown of Oakhurst (for a hilariously accurate tour, see this video by my friend Jake Newton).  A trip home always means catching up on sleep and filling our tummies with mexican food, but now there is the added bonus of my [...]


Posted in: Personal, Portraits
Expand Close
| 2 Comments | See Full Post
 

After leaving San Francisco, James and I took the familiar roads leading to my hometown of Oakhurst (for a hilariously accurate tour, see this video by my friend Jake Newton).  A trip home always means catching up on sleep and filling our tummies with mexican food, but now there is the added bonus of my adorable nephew, Gavin! Some of you might be familiar with Gavin after my first trip to see him last May. What a difference 6 months can make!

 

Gavin was so big, so active, and such a love bug. He was SO CLOSE to walking while we were there. Only having one full day, we wisely spent it around the house, getting in lots of playtime & cuddles. :)

 

 

He was a bit tuckered out after all of that dino pushing. :)

“my aunt is so weird” – Gavin’s inner monologue

Gavin had never met James before and, growing up with a clean shaven community,  was fascinated by his beard.  Every time James got close, Gavin would stare silently at the scruff, and slowly reach towards it in awe.

 

 

I couldn’t resist dressing him up for a few portraits. His face on the right seems to be questioning this decision. ;)

On the move!

“I spy something purple… and I really want it”

The joy of success:

My favorite shot from our day together….

 

Thanks for allowing this proud Aunt to gush a bit. Hopefully I can convince my sister to bring him to Boston soon. A trip to the ducklings is definitely in order!

Cheers,

Briana

Tags / Categories / Comments

breaker

California Love pt 2 | The Booterbaugh Family | San Francisco Lifestyle Photography

January 25th, 2012

Let the California Love continue! Our last day in San Francisco, James & I had the opportunity to meet up with our dear college friends, Kyle & Colette. They were the subjects of my first official engagement session in my first year of business. Years later,  despite having the entire country between us, we were [...]
 

Let the California Love continue!

Our last day in San Francisco, James & I had the opportunity to meet up with our dear college friends, Kyle & Colette. They were the subjects of my first official engagement session in my first year of business. Years later,  despite having the entire country between us, we were determined to find a time for them to frolic for the camera again… mostly to show off this cute lil mug:

 

Meet Kyle, Colette, and Bella Booterbaugh!

 

We began our time together at the Palace of Fine Arts.  This tranquil setting was a perfect location to get to know Bella! We walked, explored, climbed, talked to ducks (of course), and then learned about a few of Bella’s favorite things.

Books…

Performing…

 

Random sticks (or wands, or swords, or not so successful boomerangs… it took on many forms)…

While the fellas headed to the car for extra clothes, we wandered to the park to enjoy some mom & daughter time.

 

That hair and that smile are going to melt too many hearts. Watch out world.

 

Sneak Dad attack!

 

As the sun started to dip down, we headed to the Golden Gate Promenade for the main attraction: beach time!

 

 

The water in the San Francisco Bay was quite cold. Props to mom & dad for braving the temps together ;) .

 

 

Bella is a TOTAL daddy’s girl. That’s one happy little bundle. :)

 

 

 

Kyle, Colette, and Bella… we love you dearly. Here’s to many more chances to both document, and of course,  simply share your lives. We look forward to seeing you back in SoCal this April!

Cheers,

Briana

Tags / Categories / Comments

breaker

Music Monday | The Little Willies

January 23rd, 2012

The Little Willies | For the Good Times | Jolene Jolene I caught this track at the end of an All Things Considered segment. Driving along the river in the rain, I appreciated the mood set by this cover, sung by a familiar voice that I couldn’t quite place. I was especially drawn to the [...]


Posted in: Music Monday
Expand Close
| No Comments | See Full Post
 

The Little Willies | For the Good Times | Jolene

Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.

I caught this track at the end of an All Things Considered segment. Driving along the river in the rain, I appreciated the mood set by this cover, sung by a familiar voice that I couldn’t quite place. I was especially drawn to the group after they were given the following description:

What they bring to these classic tunes is an extraordinary marriage of relaxed camaraderie and technical excellence. They’re all incredible players, but they’re also just a bunch of friends who are in it for each other, and for the sake of the songs

After my Shazam app failed miserably, I hoped to catch the name of the group, with intentions of looking them up later. I typed “little willies” into the google search bar, prayed to the google image gods to  be kind (that was a gamble), and was relieved to find a slew of information about the band. Never an avid fan of Norah Jones, and not a huge country listener, I was pleasantly surprised by this album. The groups chemistry is unmistakeable.  I wax nostalgic for older days of around couches, campfires, & choir rooms, singing and playing for the joy of collaboration, for love of music. For a moment, as these songs play, I’m right back there.

Cheers,

Briana

Tags / Categories / Comments

breaker

California Love pt 1 | Sitting on the Dock of The Bay

January 21st, 2012

November of 2011 ended with a 2 week whirlwind of photographic-lovin’ in my home state of California. What started with the booking of Bonny & David’s SoCal wedding quickly evolved into a portrait tour down the golden state. Each stop brought another opportunity to put someone dear to my life in front of the lens.  [...]
 

November of 2011 ended with a 2 week whirlwind of photographic-lovin’ in my home state of California. What started with the booking of Bonny & David’s SoCal wedding quickly evolved into a portrait tour down the golden state. Each stop brought another opportunity to put someone dear to my life in front of the lens.  With the holidays behind us, final weddings of 2011 completed, and a much needed office revamp coming to an end, I’m happy to start sharing the journey that led to Julian.

James was presenting at the National SBL Conference, which serendipitously was hosted in San Francisco this year. A piece of my heart was left in this city as a child, and I always welcome to opportunity to be reunited. The images below tell a story of a much needed weekend off, complete with exploring, good food, and great company.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cheers,

Briana

 

 

 

 

Tags / Categories / Comments

breaker

A Wee Bit Moore

January 20th, 2012

‘Ello loves! I’m feeling particularly happy this chilly Friday morning. I literally did a victory dance in my desk chair about 6 minutes ago. Can you do a victory dance simply because your mood is winning? I like to think so. I also think it has to do with the fact that my head is [...]


Posted in: Personal
Expand Close
| 4 Comments | See Full Post
 

‘Ello loves! :) I’m feeling particularly happy this chilly Friday morning. I literally did a victory dance in my desk chair about 6 minutes ago. Can you do a victory dance simply because your mood is winning? I like to think so. I also think it has to do with the fact that my head is clear, my office is clean, and I’m finally sitting down to start a series I have been planning for months.

I’d like to tell you this planning took months because I’m about to reveal something EPIC (it’s not). Truthfully, it took months because I got much busier in my first transitional year than I had planned! I guess that’s epic for me. However, due to this unexpected influx of work, my lofty goals to connect with personal posts got lost in that very awesome sea of new business and all that comes with that. For 2012, I have committed to being more personal, including tidbits about myself that are a bit random. Fact #1: I love puns. My married name provides a plethora, including the title for this series that will pop up every few weeks: A Wee Bit Moore. This series will provide just what it says… a wee bit of info about who I am! I hope you enjoy the tidbits shared.

Something you should know straight away… if it’s not already obvious, I love to laugh. I was born playful, and that carried into all aspects of my life, including my work. Here are a few things that have made me smile this week.

 

I’m a huge fan of the Ryan Gosling Hey Girl tumblr. If we are friends on Facebook, there is a chance you have been a (happy) victim of a Gosling Meme Spam extravaganza. Last night, I found an image on the blog that brought extra joy. Who knew my sexy whiskey lovin’ husband had so much in common with dear Ryan? ;)

 

Two things that I am Code Orange Nerd Alert in love with: Star Wars and Dogs. This awesome video was shared with me by my online BFF, Deborah Parker. Kinda surprised I didn’t pass out.

 

 

 

Are there any fellow lovers of Hyperbole & a half out there?? Also, does anyone else frequently have to sit on their fingers to stop themselves from being that obnoxious spelling corrector in the group? Then this post is for you! Additional awesomeness was found this week in the form of a STUFFED ALOT.  It’s a thing of beauty! James rebuffed my plea to buy one… but he didn’t say anything about the painting (muwahaha).  I would totally hang that in my office. :)

 

What has made you smile lately?

 

Cheers,

Briana

Tags / Categories / Comments

breaker

Music Monday | Taylor Swift ft The Civil Wars

January 16th, 2012

Taylor Swift Featuring The Civil Wars | Hunger Games Soundtrack | Safe & Sound   Safe & Sound (From _The Hunger Games_ Soundtrack) [feat. The Civil Wars]   I’m not a Swift hater, but I never saw myself featuring her on Music Mondays. However, this dark folksy ballad is no ordinary Swift song.  The Civil [...]
 

Taylor Swift Featuring The Civil Wars | Hunger Games Soundtrack | Safe & Sound

 

Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.

 

I’m not a Swift hater, but I never saw myself featuring her on Music Mondays. However, this dark folksy ballad is no ordinary Swift song.  The Civil Wars (whom I loooooove) have infused this track with all of their charming, moody goodness. A gargantuan fan of the Hunger Games Trilogy, I did a mini wave at my desk in celebration of the amazing artists that will be featured on this soundtrack. Gary Ross, I’m trusting you more and more every day. ;)

Cheers,

Briana

Tags / Categories / Comments

breaker

Bonny & David | Married

January 13th, 2012

  My final wedding of 2011 was particularly near & dear to my love-loving heart. Dear, darling Bonny, one of the most loyal and generous people I have ever known,  found her match in the rumination & subtlety that defines David. Their Quaker wedding was a unique event that centered around community, full of warmth [...]
 

 

My final wedding of 2011 was particularly near & dear to my love-loving heart. :) Dear, darling Bonny, one of the most loyal and generous people I have ever known,  found her match in the rumination & subtlety that defines David. Their Quaker wedding was a unique event that centered around community, full of warmth and personal touches.

Guests spent the weekend at Camp Stevens, the Southern California retreat center where Bonny and David have celebrated Easter with their Quaker community for the last 5 years. At this event in 2010, they were engaged. There was no better place to honor their commitment!

 

The weekend was full of activities for the guests. Everyone ate, cleaned, hiked, danced, shared, and laughed together. The highlight of the activities was archery on the morning of the wedding. How many people can say this was how they warmed up for their ceremony? I’m refraining from the many bulls-eye/relationship puns running rampant in my head right now. ;)

The wedding itself was a community effort, a labor of love. All of the decorations were handmade by friends and family. The lodge was decorated by guests the evening prior to the ceremony, a collaborative creative effort fueled by anticipation and a rocking soundtrack. Speaking of music, I loved the personal touches inspired by lyrics from The Decemberists and Damien Rice.

 

What would a Julian wedding be without pie? Lots and lots of pie. Mmmmm. I firmly believe that pie is the new cupcake! All that baked goodness was complimented by a playful and delicious cake from Black Market Bakery.

 

Hair, make up, and florals were generously provided by close friends. The talent in this tight circle was immense!

 

Those faces = JOY. Meet Bonny & David:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Love that radiant smile!

 

 

 

The O’Neill women. :)

No photos were taken during the ceremony. The guests sat in a circle, and everyone was free to share their thoughts and wishes with the bride & groom. Afterwards, the wedding certificate was signed by every person in attendance.  From there, we enjoyed delicious food, and hours of dancing.

 

Bonny & David, this was such a beautiful start to your life together! I can’t wait to see how your marriage and future develops. :) I love you dearly!

Cheers,

Briana

Tags / Categories / Comments

breaker

Music Monday | Robyn

January 9th, 2012

Robyn | Body Talk | Call Your Girlfriend Call Your Girlfriend Oh Robyn, you wonderfully eccentric Swede, this song makes me want to jump right inside the video and dance with you. This album makes a day of organizing significantly more fun. I encourage you all to join the dance party, wherever you are. Cheers, [...]
 

Robyn | Body Talk | Call Your Girlfriend

Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.

Oh Robyn, you wonderfully eccentric Swede, this song makes me want to jump right inside the video and dance with you. This album makes a day of organizing significantly more fun. :) I encourage you all to join the dance party, wherever you are.

Cheers,

Briana

Tags / Categories / Comments

« More Entries