Mommy Cards.

If you're on my email newsletter list, you saw my new Mommy Card mini-session. It's a photo shoot/printed business cards/free 8x10 kind of session. Unlike anything I've offered before. Click here to get the details, and please note that many more designs are in the works. And most all will be able to be customized to match the colors in the photo. I've already had a few calls from people who want to use them for things other than playdate info. That's fine. As long as you need a photo shoot and a printed product, I can do it.

Anyone still interested in The Grocery Game?

I haven't blogged much about it, but I'm still playing, and it's made a big difference to our finances in the last year. In fact, I'm just about at the one year mark for GG and I will declare it a success for our family.

Back in November and December of 2008, I hit some all-time spending highs of $635 (saved 35%) and $581 (saved 22%). I expected expenses to be higher, because of holiday parties and baking. I actually wished I had stocked up on even more baking items, like canned pumpkin and flour. I'll know next year.

In January and February, I spent $590 (saved 28%) and $459 (saved 31%). Keep in mind, this is spending for all groceries, household items (paper towels, cleaners, etc.) and personal care items (shampoo, razors, etc.) at Kroger and Walgreen's, with some trips to Target and Aldi. I didn't keep track of my spending before I started GG, but I do recall spending well over $100 every week at Kroger. Now I'm almost always under that. And we're also better stocked and go out to eat less.

I'm sure I could drop our totals even more, but we're comfortable where we are at. I buy lots of fresh food and try to make some sort of baked snack every week. And now I've started withdrawing cash for groceries every two weeks. It makes me even more sensitive to how much I'm spending and I've yet to exceed my budget.

Want to share any shopping tips here? Feel free! And if you join the Grocery Game, please use my email, marci@makearteveryday.com, as your referral.

My tiny dancers.

Today is the girls' dance recital. Margret takes tap and Audrey takes ballet through a program at their school. So this morning they will perform twice so all grades can see them. Then they'll do another performance later for parents.

We picked up costumes this week (both of which are really pretty) and I thought we should do a test run yesterday afternoon. You know, put everything on, do makeup and hair, so there won't be any surprises. Especially because I needed to have their hair done before they went to school this morning. It's really fun to have to put Audrey's hair in a bun while she's barely awake!

And since I had them all dolled up yesterday, I suggested we do a quick photo shoot (okay, I did pull out lights and a reflector. That's just how I roll). Margret was great and followed my directions perfectly. Audrey posed for three snaps and started crying because I didn't want her to actually dance. Thank goodness I got one good shot of her. Because I'm not sure I could go through this again this afternoon!

I love cupcakes.

Is there anyone who doesn't love cupcakes? Okay, sometimes Audrey just licks the icing off. But she's from another planet.

I'm a big fan of Muddy's Bake Shop. One, because it's yummy. Two, because I love to see small businesses grow. Three, because they have cupcakes. And I think one reason they succeed is because of Kat's level of customer service.

A friend asked me to do an invitation for her daughter's cupcake birthday party. I said, sure, but I'm going to have to go to Muddy's for some models. I emailed them and asked if they could set aside a few really perfect cupcakes. Of course they could. The staff was totally helpful, as I expected.

I spent about 30 minutes photographing the model using natural light and a small reflector. Love the way they turned out. Hope they make you want to lick the screen.

Engrossed in her work.

I got to see something yesterday that was amazing.

I went to get my haircut. Now, I am awful at keeping regular appointments. I basically wait until I'm so sick of my hair falling in my eyes that I call to schedule a cut. It's a terrible habit, but hey. At least I eventually get around to seeing my favorite stylist of all time: Margaret at Juve. I love her. I tell her I love her. And I mean it. I love to talk to and her and I love the way she listens to me.

When I first started going to her, my hair was much shorter than I wanted it. So I kept telling her, don't cut much, let it grow. And she did. Yet another reason I love her.

But when I showed up yesterday, I told her to cut my hair. She said, "Now, I think you said that you are going to let me cut your hair. Is that what I heard?" Yes, I said. At least three inches. I'm over the long hair and it's time for something new. I'm not going to tell you what to do -- just do it.

I was her first customer of the day and I actually arrived a few minutes before she did. She seemed to have a bit of that slow-to-get-going-in-the-morning thing going on. But as soon as I told her she was in charge, her whole demeanor changed. She got right down to work, studying my hair and snipping away. She became focused. Engrossed in what she was doing. I just sat and watched her transformation.

When she was almost done, I told her what I observed and she laughed. She said she was so excited she got to start her day this way. I asked if she lost track of time when she was into her work and she nodded. I told her I do the same thing. That is what it's like to be engaged in your work.

So here is the new hair (and a new cleavage-enhancing shirt). I love it (and John loves the shirt). And I'm happy I was able to make the change.

So what is it in your life that engrosses you? What do you do that causes you to lose track of time? And how do you think you can add more of that to your life?

It's going to be a light week.

I happy to tell you that I have four photo shoots this week. The upside of that is that I get to do what I love to do: take pictures. The downside of that is little time for posting. Mix in the girls' rehearsals and dance recitals, and more college basketball and that means my head will be spinning by Sunday.

Feel free to chime in in the comments and let me know what you are up to. Is it a busy week? A slow week? A just right week?

Mmmmm.

That sure was some tasty turtle!

Okay, I have to admit I feel a tiny bit guilty for rooting against the Maryland Terrapins today, but what can I say? I've been colonized. I am a true blue Memphis fan. And after their crappy play on Thursday, I was quite happy to see the whole team show today. Now I can relax for a few days. I think.

By the way, that is an actual Memphis tiger above. I caught him at the Zoo this week.

Smith Island Cake, part 2.

Last time we saw the Smith Island Cake, it was still rather naked. I think I used too much icing on the lower layers so I ran out before I could finish frosting the whole thing. I let the whole thing chill for a while in the refrigerator, then I used a can of ready-made frosting to neaten up the whole thing. Then I put it back in the refrigerator, because the girls said they could not bear to look at it all day without being able to eat it.

Thankfully, dinnertime came and I sliced into it. And yes, it's as good as it looks.

Today's adventure.

First, I need to admit something. I really didn't want to take the girls out today. I just wanted to work on editing client photos. Bad, bad mommy. But since I didn't want to listen to endless whining either, I asked them what they wanted to do. They said the Zoo, and I said we'd try. A few days before, the rest of Memphis was at the Zoo and we couldn't get close to the entrance, let alone in the gates.

Luckily, today wasn't so bad. It was crowded but we were able to get parked relatively quickly. And I had tossed my camera in my purse, with no big plans to use it.

But I did use it, and I'm glad. This week has been a chance for me to try new things. These shots are from the Northwest Passage. I almost always shoot down at a subject, but here I tried shooting from below. And I love the results. I especially love the loping yeti pose from Audrey above. Doesn't she look like I just caught her tramping through the forest?

Margret remembered some of the posing technique I taught her earlier and popped right into place. Love that. And I love that they are starting to say "take my picture, mommy." I never thought the day would come.

Frankly, I was a bit uptight when we arrived, ticking off minutes in my head. Eventually, after lunch at Backyard Burger and a carousel ride, I settled into the groove and stopped looking at the clock. Sometimes work has to wait. Baby girls won't be little forever.

Smith Island Cake, part 1.

Last summer, my Aunt Nancy sent me an online article about Smith Island cakes. Apparently, little old women have been making these 10-layer cakes for years and years in their relative obscurity on the little island. My mother has traced some of her geaneology back to that area, so I'd like to think it's in my genes to make one of these creations.

We got a sample one last Christmas when my ex-stepmom (long story) sent us one. It. Was. Heaven. And recently my mom said she wanted to send us one since she had found a mail order source. I told her not to worry about it -- I had printed out a recipe last summer when I read the article.

And I decided that today I would make one from scratch. It's fairly easy to do -- you just need time or ten cake pans. Since I only have two, I spent well over an hour on the baking part. Good if you are going to be at home all afternoon anyway. Margret helped sift the flour; Audrey helped lick the bowl. I was concerned that I wouldn't have enough batter for all ten layers, but I eked it out in the end. I did overdo the icing on the first few layers, so now the cake is listing a bit but I've put it in the frig to cool. I think I'll take a can of ready-made frosting and give the whole thing a once-over, just to make it pretty. Tomorrow night, I'll post a photo after we cut into and I'll give you a review.

ETA: I added a few links, and the recipe I used is the last link.

The field in the city.

So it seems as though Spring Break has turned into model time. Everywhere we go I've been scouting new photo locations and pressing the girls into service. Luckily, they don't mind. This morning we planned to go to Shelby Farms with John (he took the day off) but it had started to sprinkle. Then the plan was to walk in the mall, but as we arrived, the sun came out. So we headed over to a little park nearby and walked around there.

And it was beautiful. It's the Cancer Survivor Park, near Theatre Memphis. Even though it's right next to a busy road, it's quite lovely. A main feature is the labyrinth and we all followed it to the center. The girls didn't believe me at first that there is only one way in and one way out. And then they found themselves in the very center, just like I said.

The landscape around the park is overgrown right now. I wish they would keep it that way -- it looks like a clearing you would find deep in a forest. Very cool. I'm sure we'll be back.

Model children.

Our plan today was to head over to the Memphis Zoo and see what the animals were doing. I had heard that traffic was awful yesterday; a perfect storm of Free Day, public school spring break and the first beautiful weather in quite some time. So surely all of Memphis had been there already, right?

I knew things were bad when I saw the traffic backed up half a mile from the Zoo entrance. I explained the situation to the girls and finally convinced them we need to make alternative plans. I remembered that we hadn't been to Lichterman Nature Center yet and they agreed. After lunch at McDonald's (I know, two times in three days. Gross.).

We arrived and attempted to go down a trail that was protected by a goose. As soon as he hissed we were outta there. The forest trail was a better choice. And I was thrilled to locate a few places for future photo shoots. Once it greens up it will be luscious.

We made a stop at Ben & Jerry's, then home for a short while. Then over to the Library for an art program. The girls built dream houses, and Margret continued on with hers after we got home. I think I'm going to be looking for an art camp this summer. Anyone know a good one?

Spring Break, 2009.

The girls are on Spring Break this week, and even though I have a ton of work to do, we have some kind of special plan for most days. On Monday, I took them for haircuts. Which were really just trims, so you can barely tell. But I do enjoy seeing their eyeballs again. Margret immediately pulled hers back in a ponytail (like she does most days).

Audrey still has some wacky parts, left over from her self-cut several months ago. But we're getting there.

The big event of the day was the trip to McDonald's for lunch. My mom had sent them McD's gift cards, so I made each of them go up and order and pay for themselves. It was kinda funny, because they were so shy about it. Even though they had been talking about this trip for a week. After we played computer games at our favorite table, we went back up to the counter to order ice cream. And of course, they proceeded to go insane from the sugar. Always happens.

More fun with flash.

Yesterday I was testing out some settings on my flash and had to work with my usual models. Who did the usual things. These are going to look so great during their wedding rehearsal dinner videos.

While John went to see the Tigers play, and his mom came over to play with the girls, I did a photo shoot of a little boy's first birthday party. Love those. His mom and dad get to spend time with their family and guests and I get to go around taking photos of everyone and everything. Can't wait to go through them tomorrow and start editing.

I also spent some time working on a logo for a friend. The type came together easily, but the graphic not so much. I researched and drew and researched some more. Then I finally got it! How? I drew it with my left hand. I'll finish it up today or tomorrow and send it to my friend. After she approves I'll post it here.

We ran out for a quick dinner at Pei Wei, then picked up movies at Kroger. The girls got "The Last Mimzy" and we thought about getting the Oscar-nominated "The Visitor" but instead went for "You Don't Mess with the Zohan." Because we believe we are intelligent, thoughtful people, but we really just want to watch stupid comedies on Saturday nights. That's just the way we roll.

Today I smell the bacon cooking and am about to settle in for breakfast. Some grocery store trips will happen. Probably some laundry. Maybe a little cleaning. Definitely watching this evening to see where the Tigers land in the tournament. We had such a great day yesterday that I want another one just like it.

Does anyone know if the Tigers won today?

Oh yeah. I think I know now.

Morning.

I'm trying to get going on this ucky, rainy morning. I have several things to do (that's my biz list under the pen) but I'm foggy and tired and have a headache. Pretty soon I'm going to have to treat myself to a day off.

For now, I'm going to enjoy a giant mug of hot cocoa and a pumpkin muffin. And maybe some Tylenol.

Life Art.

On Saturday we had a friend coming over and I wanted to give the girls a fun activity. I remembered that I had a roll of contractor's paper, so I had each girl lay down on it while another girl traced her.

I love Audrey's sly look here.

Margret was very conscientious about her tracing and worked so hard to be accurate.

Meanwhile, Audrey kept an eye on me.

And Audrey was very still, in order to get the best representation of her little self. Once everyone was traced, I gave them a giant box of crayons and told them to get to it. They loved seeing themselves life-sized and they were serious about the coloring.

Margret was only able to color her feet and legs, before we had to leave the house for the rest of the day. She purposely posed in ballerina mode, with the idea that she would color herself ready to dance. I think these toe shoes are just gorgeous, and I hope she will finish the rest of it.

Audrey decided she was a robot and asked me how to spell it so she could write it on her drawing. She would also like you to notice the Milky Way (pinkish red) and stars (yellow) in the upper left. Another great masterpiece, I think.

Next week is the girls' spring break and I'm looking for some more creative ideas. Post yours in the comment and I'll blog about whatever we end up doing.

Newsletter changes.

I'll be working on a new e-newsletter to launch next week, but before I do that I'm going to scrub through my contact list and bring it up to date. In case you haven't signed up yet, you have until early Monday morning to do so (yep, it's the old form. Still working on updating it to match the new look). Most of my business come from word-of-mouth, so let me just thank you again if you have used my services and/or passed my name on to others. 2009 is shaping up to be a great year!

Sick girl treatment.

Alas, Audrey has been felled by illness yet again. As you may recall, she was barfing early Sunday morning, multiple times. She (and Margret) stayed home Monday, but everything was back to normal on Tuesday. Wednesday was good, although I went to bed with a killer headache.

Thursday morning, I woke up at 5:30, and barfed. Oh great. John got the girls ready and off to school (even though I was going to take them because he had an early meeting; it all worked out). I managed to get more sleep and even roused myself to do a quick photo shoot of a cupcake for a friend. I remained tired the rest of the day, but never got sick again.

After John made dinner and supervised baths/showers, the girls and I hopped in bed to watch some tv. At which point Audrey made the very distinct sound Lambert girls make when they are about to barf. The barf bowl was still close by, so I handed it to her and she proceeded to throw up food from the past 25 days. Seriously. I could not believe the volume of yak.

I really hope you are not eating breakfast while reading this.

So Audrey is home today, although she did not throw up anymore last night. And she has a good appetite this morning. And she seems happy. Still, she's getting the sick girl treatment of having breakfast served in mommy's bed and getting to watch the Wonder Pets. Let's hope this is the last of it.

Notecards.

Both girls were home sick on Monday. So I needed to send notes with them Tuesday morning to let their teachers know they were excused due to illness. I grabbed some white cardstock from the box of scraps I have in my desk, and added a strip of stripey patterned paper near the top. I added a few lines with a black pen and scribbled out my note. And I rounded the corners. Done.

When I picked up Audrey Tuesday afternoon, her teacher just raved about the note. Dude. It was nothing. But still. I'm pretty sure Audrey is going to pass kindergarten, but let's just sweeten the pot with a set of homemade notecards, shall we?

A snow day for Lamberts.

I had already decided Audrey wasn't going to go to school today. She was still throwing up on Sunday during the day and she didn't need to share the bug with anyone in her class. But Margret has been fine, although I've seen dark circles under her eyes.

So when the alarm went off this morning, I got the kid up and started feeding her breakfast. Which she didn't want to eat. And her belly hurt. And she had those dark circles. I told her to get back in bed. And I got back in mine. I was basically concerned that the throw-ups would start after she got to school, and I figured no one there needed that. So she slept awhile and I slept awhile and Audrey slept awhile.

Of course, both girls seem fine now. Playing happily. Enjoying ice pops that I bought for A yesterday. Wanting to play in the snow, but being told that they are sick today, remember?

Oh well. I'm mostly right about when they are sick. And I'm in my own little fog, so I'm not working today. I'm about to go lay in bed and read and take advantage of our own snow day.

Snow play.

The snow started falling Saturday afternoon. I was in the kitchen, making an apple pie to take over to our neighbors' for dinner. A friend stopped by to pick up her daughter and I recall 30 minutes of great conversation, although the topics escape me.

Later, we bundled up to drive two streets over to see our friends. More great conversation and great food, punctuated by four little girls running around. It was after 9p when we left, and the snow still fell. The weather had a surprise for us: our minivan side doors wouldn't open, so we had to toss the girls in through the back. I don't think they minded. We got them safely in bed and turned in ourselves, ready for a peaceful night.

You know where this is going. There is no peaceful night for parents who expect one. At 1:30a, Audrey started puking. A stomach bug is making its way around our school, so I can't say I was surprised. It does seem a bit unfair that Audrey, who used to be ranked as "healthiest Lambert", has taken the brunt of illness these last two months. Pinkeye, strep, ear infection, UTI and now this.

After she tossed the second time, we put her in bed with us. And sat up with her the next dozen times she hurled. I should point out that she is an excellent hurler. She knows when it's coming, asks for the bowl (I bought a special new puke bowl a few weeks ago) and sticks her head in. Unlike Margret and me, she doesn't even cry. I admire that.

Around 5a, the diarrhea kicked in and we started taking turns getting up with her because we were becoming delirious. I decided to get up with her around 8ish and let John sleep a while. She still threw up a bit but it wasn't as bad as the night before. Margret woke up and seemed fine. After a while, John got up and we both stumbled around a bit. Audrey napped, then made the mistake of drinking a cup of water and needed the throw-up bowl a few more times. She napped again while I went out to get groceries. By the time I got back, I napped with her.

The snow outside was really beautiful; thick enough to make a big blanket over everything, yet melted on the streets so driving was safe. Margret looked out at it longingly in the morning. Neither John or I wanted to go out in it (and we wouldn't let Audrey go), so we made a deal: you can go out and we'll stay in the window to watch you.

At first she just tromped around, watching her own footprints. She knocked snow off the bushes.

Then I saw the idea forming her head.

It took a few tries before she made it up the plank.

And then what would she do once she got up there?

Yeah, it's sort of hard to slide if you don't sit down. But if you sit down, your jeans get soaked.

To heck with wet jeans. Go for it.

Margret didn't stay outside for long. I think for her the big appeal about going out in the snow is the coming back in for hot cocoa. Which I had ready for her. Later I asked her if she had fun. She said yeah, kinda. I asked what would have made it more fun. She said "if Audrey was out there too."

Maybe next time, kid.