nostalgia | + recent reads

Yesterday morning I went to visit my old coworkers.  Since leaving, I don't often go back.  And it's a shame really since the town holds a lot of memories for me.  It was where I rented my first apartment, had my first big girl job, paid my bills, lived away from my parents, started dating the now husband, and learned to enjoy running.  I used to sit on these benches and read during my lunch break or write my case notes.  It was nice to spend a few hours with old friends and in my old stopping grounds.  Reminded me that I need to return more often.  I miss it.   

There is beauty in nostalgia. 

Speaking of nostalgia, I cannot help but bring up - yes, i know, again - the death of Robin Williams.  As with the rest of the world, I cannot stop thinking about him  and his family.  For some reason, his sudden death has affected me much more than any other celebrity deaths.  Maybe it's because I grew up watching Mrs Doubtfire, Aladdin, and Hook?  I really don't know why.  I just know that it has.  My stomach aches whenever I think about what his family must be going through right now and all of the questions that will continue to go unanswered.
Below are some of my favorite posts written about his death:

1 // While the death of celebrities do make me said, Robin's death is, at least for me, different than any of the others.  I am always annoyed by people's Facebook statuses or Twitter posts about how sad they are that so and so died.  I just felt like it was another effort to post another sob story and make it about them.  However, this post from Adam made me think differently.

2 // Working in the field of psychology for 6.5 years helped me to understand Depression and it's effects on the daily life of the person suffering from it.  This post written by Tyler is spot on.  Hollywood has been demonizing mental illness for decades.  Let's make something positive from his suicide and take the opportunity to discuss mental illness with your loved ones to help them instead of stigmatizing it and making them feel even more alone. 

3 // I am a huge of Raven.  She may come off as brash to some but I appreciate her brutal honesty.  The older I get the less patients I have for bullshit.  Anyway, she writes about how important it is not to judge someone's actions unless you have walked in their shoes.  No, I cannot imagine leaving behind my loved ones by my own doing.  But then again I have never been so depressed that I cannot imagine any other option but to take my own life.  Remember, "everyone has a story." 

And because nothing else seems appropriate today, a little Genie for #backthatazzup Friday. 

What makes you feel nostalgic?

What was your Robin Williams movie?

Linking up with Aimee and Caitlin, Whitney, and Amanda today!

photo walk

Oh hey, August!  Where did you  come from?  Why must you return every year with your back to school commercials that still depress me even though I haven't been in school for over 10 years?  Thanks. but not really. 

Anyway, to get back on topic.  How has everyone been?  I have missed all of y'all.  July has come and gone way too fast yet again, no?  I am glad to be back though.  I was not as productive as I had hoped I would be during my break - not at all surprised - but I am looking forward to getting back into the blogging groove.  I did make a blogging schedule of sorts so there is always that.  Hopefully it will help me through those days I feel unmotivated and uninspired.  Keeping my fingers crossed it will.

My Summer schedule has been little bit different than my school year schedule.  Since the Mom of the little girls I watch is a teacher, she does not need me as much over the Summer.  Which, yes, I am actually pretty bummed about it (if you ever met those girls you would see why in under 5 seconds.)  Anyway, to supplement, I have been watching their cousins on Mondays.  This past Monday, the other older cousin, HB, and I went on a little photo adventure around a little park before having to pick up brother from soccer camp.  The photos below were all taken by me, BUT I believe I have inspired a little photographer in HB.  I handed over my camera to her as we meandered our way back to the car to take some shots.  She came away with at least five good photos.  And she's only 7.  To say I am excited would be an understand.  Monday was not our last photo walk together.  I can promise you that.  

I have gotten out of the habit of taking photo walks on a regular basis.  Taylor reminded me of the rush I get when taking photos so I hope to be getting back out there again.
HAPPY FRIDAY!

Soooo, what have you been up to?

What have you photographed recently?

and because it's the weekend... 

Linking up with Aimee and Jess today!

morning fog {find beauty friday}

I had a completely different idea for today's Find Beauty Friday post.  But then I was driving to work this morning and this happened.  Reason number 21673131864 why I love mornings.  You just never know what you are going to get. 

Happy Friday! 

What is your morning commute like?

Does it ever stop you in your tracks?

What are your plans for the last weekend in June (<--what)?

Linking up with Aimee and Whitney today!

sunday at the park

I had just gotten back from a walk/run with a friend on Sunday and asked husband what he wanted to do.  Sun, blue skies, and high 50s were in the forecast so he suggested going to see the Pirates play.  Husband has been a huge fan of the Pirates since he was a kid.  Always a believer even when they continued to lose for 20 years.  Last year they had a winning season and actually made it to the playoffs for the first time since the early 90s. So the husband has been itching to return to PNC Park ever since.  I agreed.  

We parked where we always park.  It's probably a mile walk down this riverside trail but it's free and we don't have to wait for traffic when we leave.  There are some pretty views along the way too.

^abandoned IC Light.

PNC is one of the most beautiful baseball parks in the country.  If you are anywhere along the 1st base line, behind home plate, or the 3rd base line, you get an amazing view of the city.  We both dressed inappropriately thinking it was going to be cooler than it was so we ended up moving into the shade under the roof to coo off and get away from the sun.  If you are ever in Pittsburgh, I recommend getting tickets.  And if you aren't a huge of baseball, then the views are worth it. 

It finally feels like Spring around here.  Days spent at the baseball park and the sun shining on your face is what Spring days are made for. 

Do you enjoy going to baseball games?

Who is your home team?

Is Spring finally coming around for you as well?

Linking up with Aimee, Jess, and Whitney today!

and because this song just makes me want to dance. 

until next time

sun {find beauty friday}

Today I am excited to be co-hosting my second Find Beauty Friday with the wonderful Aimee from Click. Pray. Create.  Friday's are some of my favorite days for link-ups since most of them (at least the ones I like to participate in) are photography related. 

On Wednesday I was on my way to book club around 7 thinking "Shoot, it's Wednesday and I haven't gotten any photos for FBF yet, what am I going to do?"  And at that moment I looked over while waiting at a light and saw the below scene.  Boom.    

Even though the temperatures have not been cooperating, the sun blinding me at 7pm is something to celebrate.  Another reminder that warm weather is just around the corner.

What are your favorite captures from the week?

What is helping you get through these last few days of chilly temps?

Linking up with Aimee, Jess, and Whitney today! 

... and just because this song makes me want to dance. 

until next time

An InLinkz Link-up

from where i stand

Monday mornings were never my thing.  Shocking, I know.  When I worked at my old job, come Sunday morning, and sometimes Saturday nights, I would begin dreading Monday and the start of yet another work week.  

The same is no longer true.  I spend Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays hanging out with the most adorable 20 month old and 5 year old.  I laugh every single day.  Come Monday morning, I miss them so much that I actually wake up excited for my day.  

I mean, with views like this, how could I ever hate Mondays anymore?

I am beyond grateful to a supportive husband who encouraged me to just quit and the opportunity to get the chance to be a part of these little girls' lives on a weekly basis.  I cannot imagine doing anything else.  

What do you do for a living?

Are Mondays hard for you?

What moments did you capture this week?

and because i am feeling nostalgic... 

Linking up with Jess, Aimee, and Whitney today!

until next time

runnin' {in my best forest gump}

Today's post is inspired by Amanda's "Runner's Tell All" monthly link-up.  Today's topic is My Running Story in 250 Words.  For more information go here for the monthly topics and possible sponsorship opportunities. 

Me with my first race number. 

My running story begins like most love stories, girl meets boy. 

 Boy is a runner, Girl is not.  Girl wants to lose those extra few pounds she gained in college, Boy suggests running.  

I was once told that if I wanted to get in good running shape, I would have to run fast.  This idea lead to my strong dislike for the sport so I never considered it as an option.  Boy convinced me the opposite was true so I started from the very beginning; running for a minute or 2 then walking a minute or 2. So on and so on.  As I noticed the lbs coming off and how good it made me feel, I decided to tackle my first race, a 5k.  I was just happy to not finish in last place.  

Thanks to the runner's high from the 5k, I decided to train for a half marathon - Chicago in 2008.  I spent that Summer training and surprising myself I actually enjoyed running.  Boy and I completed the half marathon together.  I was ecstatic even though I could barely walk for the next few days. 

I completed another half marathon and a handful of 5ks over the last 6 years.  While Boy and my relationship has remained strong, unfortunately the same cannot be said for Running and me.  However, I am beginning to rebuild that relationship again.  Slowly but surely.

Are you a runner?

How did get you started?

What is the longest distance you have ever ran?

and because this song never gets old... 

Linking up with Amanda and Whitney today!

until next time

charlie

I surprised my mom a few days early with a visit to STL the day after Christmas.  She had originally thought I was meeting them in Memphis for my Grandmother's 90th birthday party but my dad and sisters were all able to keep it  hush hush.  Anyway, after a visit to Memphis for the night, I had one full day left with my family before heading back to Pittsburgh to ring in the new year with the husband.  So before my mom and I headed out to grab some photos in Forest Park (a post for another day, I promise!), I grabbed some shots of Charlie, my mom's cat, basking in the late morning sun and warming up on top of the furnace.  

"Maybe if I close my eyes and I can't see you, you won't see me either." - that's what Charlie is thinking. 

My mom got Charlie from an estate sale her and her friend were shopping at for their antique booth.  He spent a good year and a half, at least, on his own, so Mr. Charlie is quite the survivalist.  I mean my mom has to keep all food off of the counter and the garbage locked because Charlie knows how to open it and help himself.  If I were ever to get a cat, I want one just like him.  

Charlie was such a great sport showing off for the camera.  Being that one of my goals for 2014 is to shoot in Manual, I did a little experimenting while Charlie posed for me.  I really love how the natural light from the window made his white fur glow.  I still have a lot to learn in Manual, but I know I am going to have a lot of fun trying. 

Do you have any pets (or do you wish you did)?

Are they good models for you?

Do you shoot in Manual?

And last but not least, Mackelmore & Ryan Lewis for some #backthatazzup.  And where have I been?  Mackelmore isn't gay?!

Linking up with Aimee, Jess, and Whitney today! 

until next time

craving color

I know this is not news, but ya'll it is freeeee. zing!  And I am so over it!  And it's only January.  The sun is shining outside but it literally hurts to be outside for more than a second.  I mean, even my teeth hurt.  I mean what is that about (<---said in my best Chandler Bing)? Every year around this time I ask myself why I haven't uprooted and left for warmer climates.  But there is just something about Pittsburgh that stole my heart.  It must be true love for me stick around year after year.  

I am currently craving the warm moments these photos recall for me.  On Sundays we go to the in-laws for dinner.  These were taken while walking around their yard and checking out the freshly bloomed flowers in their garden.  If those colors don't scream Summer and warmth, I'm not sure what else would.

Has it been freezing where you are?

What helps get you through January & February?

And just because Bieber has had such a big week...

Linking up with  Jess, Aimee, and Whitney today! 

until next time

link-up reveal

{one} I recently discovered a Starbucks card that has $100 on it.  I think my parents put it in my stocking last Christmas or something.  Talk about the best surprise.  Hello skinny cafe mochas.

{two} I had my first ever chiropractic adjustment this afternoon.  Not sure what I was scared of, but I loved it.  Feel so much better. 

{three} I picked myself up Chipotle for dinner.  I am hanging out with my little girlfriends tonight so in an attempt to make working on a Friday night, instead of sitting on my couch with a glass of wine, I now have something to look forward to.

{four} One of my photos was chosen again for #findbeautyfriday!

{five} Do you remember me mentioning that I had a link-up I wanted to start come the new year?  Well, today I would like to share my idea with you.  So many of y'all take such beautiful photos and I want to see them on the daily.  So I guess consider this a formal invitation to join me in completing a photo-a-day project.  Although I am almost done with my first year, I find myself really enjoying it and want to keep it up.  Have you ever wanted to complete a 365 photo project before?  This is your chance.  Interested?  Let me know in the comments below (or email me at acornmanphotography@gmail.com) and I will write a new post with even more details and thoughts.  I hope to hear from y'all!  

One of my favorite photos taken from the week and I saw this simple print on Pinterest and just couldn't resist. 

And last but not least, a recent find on my favorite Pandora Station, Nu, for #backthatazzup. 

What 5 things made you smile this week?

What is your favorite photo you took this week?

Interested in completing a photo-a-day project?

Linking up with April, Whitney, Jess, and Aimee today!  

until next time

you're makin' me blush

While I was shakin' my groove thang a few weekends ago at a friend's wedding, I was surprised by a notification on Twitter that I had been nominated for a Sunshine Blog Award from Aimee over at Dear Harper.  I, of course, was beyond flattered as we both share a strong passion for photography and I look forward to seeing what she captures on her blog.  Thank you so much for the nomination, Aimee.  You makin' me blush, girl!  However, I am not going to pass it on because I really don't think I could ever limit my faves to only 11. So, I am going to keep this one  for myself this time if that's okay.

I had also planned on getting around to finally posting my #capturingmymoments from IG today.  I have had such a lazy month when it comes to blogging.  Sorry.  But it will be back Nov. 1, I promise!  So please keep sharing.  I love clicking on #capturingmymoments and seeing all of the new photos that y'all post.  Seriously makes my day!  And speaking of hashtags, Aimee has her own little project going on as well called #findbeautyFriday.  Even though I have been meaning to participate I keep forgetting!  I will get better about this, Aimee.  I promise:)

And since today is one of the first days it is actually starting to feel like Fall around these parts, today I am backing my thang up (well as much as you can to Bon Iver) to Perth.

Linking up with Whitney and Mandi today! 

until next time

how this little ole thing has changed me

{today's prompt; self portrait}

I can hardly think about anything else but sitting down to read this 1000 page book.  Addicted. 

I wasn't going to write for yesterday's blogtember prompt - discuss ways that blogging or social media has changed you.  It wasn't until I read y'alls different posts that I realized duh! it has changed me in ways that I never noticed until now. 

When I first started this blog, I had intended it to be my photography website - Acornphotography (hence the blog's URL).   I liked having a place to put all of my photos and write a little description of what I captured. It wasn't until around this time last year that I found myself enjoying the writing part more than the photo part.  

When I finally realized this I had every intention of starting from scratch and writing a whole new blog.  But the idea of putting just what I wrote out there initially terrified the hell out of me.  I mean, who really gives a shit about what I have to say?  I am pretty boring.  But since I had already built up a following (albeit very small), I decided to slowly start sharing what I had to say little by little.   

So how has it changed me? For the first time in my life, I enjoy writing.  And while I know what I have to say is not necessarily earth shattering, I have confidence in what I write.  This coming from a girl who never felt comfortable turning in a paper without Mom proofreading it first.  I am still learning to find my voice and decide where I want my small part of the webs to take me but I love it and am enjoying this journey.  It has also led me to gain a little bit more confidence in who I am as a person.  I am starting to let go of what others' opinions of me and what I choose to do affect what I do.  If something, like blogging, brings me joy then why shouldn't I continue down that path even if someone thinks it stupid.  And if you know me at all, you know that's a big deal.  

What about you, has blogging changed you?

Perhaps in a way you didn't realize until just now.

Paul Simon - "You Can Call Me Al"

And this song.  I have been obsessed with it ever since I was kiddo (and yes, because of the title). Helene had a link-up yesterday that I wanted to participate in but ended up not because the temptation of drinks and dinner out won.  But since I like to always leave a Friday post with some good music, I figured what the hay.

What songs define you?

What gets you pumped for the weekend? 

Linking up with Helene, Jenni, Rachel, Whitney, and Jean today!

Until next time, 

sign of the times

If you ever want to feel old, just head to an outdoor concert surrounded by young 20 somethings getting wasted and drunk dancing all while feeling nostalgic for the days when you were that wasted, drunk dancing 20 something.  Last night I got the chance to see Mumford & Sons live.  And as much as I enjoyed the show, I kept catching myself thinking "man I wish I could just sit down" or "this would be perfect in a cute little coffee shop or something."  When do such old person sounding thoughts happen?  

So today's post is brought to you by... Signs you are getting wiser older: 

*you ask for things you need rather than things you want for Christmas or your birthday.  Ex: vacuum

*you don't drink that 3rd glass because you know tomorrow will be hell if you keep going.

*hangovers last until Wednesday. at the earliest. 

*you get motion sickness. in the front seat.

*you are a morning person

*when you get up past 8 and feel as your whole day is shot because you slept in. 

*all of your friends are having babies on purpose. 

*you think those girls walking around in tank tops and heals in the middle of winter without a jacket just look plain ridiculous. 

*you dress weather appropriate

*you need at least 8 hours of sleep. 

*you look forward to nights in, on the couch with a good book or movie while sipping on some wine or tea (if you are really old). 

*standing room only means a next day of lower back pain 

*you "just don't get kids these days."

Have you seen Mumford & Sons in concert before?

Does going to a show make you feel old?
What are other signs that you are getting older?

Linking up with Whitney for #backthatazzup and Jelli today! 

Mumford & Sons - "Sigh No More"