Petersen Family

The Death of a Small Town

2011-05-06T08:54:00.000-07:00

Las Vegas Documents - Final Project

The images of down town Henderson keep drawing me back to take a deeper look. Maybe it is the small tow feeling of open yards with chainlink fences that draws me to it, or maybe it's the feeling of despair that keeps drawing me back to these images.

I lived in small towns growing up. Shooting these images resurrected some deep feelings of sorrow.

A Few years ago I took a trip to see the home I grew up in. There were so many happy memories at that home, the home of my childhood. To my dismay it had been abandoned, gutted, windows broken out and was now in the middle of a horse corral and being used as a chicken coop. I remember taking pictures of that home and feeling like I wanted to cry.

I knew that the same thing was happening in downtown Henderson, and it made me sad to know someone else would feel that same sorrow when they came back to visit the neighborhood that they played with their friends in, or the home that they grew up in. I think the death of the small town is a tragedy, and I am sure that is why the downtown Henderson images draw me back again and again.

"The Back Door"

"No Girls Allowed"

"Back Yard Swing"

"Wash Day"

"Front Yard BBQ"

"Red Neck Lock"

"Platinum Suites"

"Hot Water"

"Crystal Cleaners & Laundry"

"Cracked"

Fremont Street Las Assignment

2011-05-06T08:48:00.000-07:00

self portrait

Using my 10 stop ND filter I was able to capture standing still subjects and the moving subjects were blured

Petting a Shark. Nice Shark!

1 Million Dollars

Ghost Gamblers

Get out of my way

best friends

bar stools (just after I was asked to leave)

amber light

4 queens

LV Documents South Strip

2011-05-01T16:27:00.000-07:00

This is my favorite image of the 10 I selected for this shoot. I used a 10 stop filter to get the cloulds moving through the sky. I was able to make a 30 second exposure in the middle of the day. I am really going to enjoy this new ability. I set the camera on my camera bag to give it stability because I didn't have my tripod. I am enjoying abstract images very much.

this is an abstract of a painting on a wall in the Luxor it is part of a cape.

this is one of Dennis' favorite images. I like to as well but it wasn't my favorite it was 3rd

this was a my 2nd favorite image. the lighting tracks were really cool and when they came to a corner they illuminated up on the metal walls

desert (oh I wish I wasn't trying to loose weight)

I didn't know there were any motel 8's in existence any more well I guess anything can happen in Vegas

at an abandoned motel the roof was being held up by these metal straps

I really liked the contrast between the 2 spires. the Luxor Obolisk and the old motels sign

at the 4 seasons this wedding cake begged to get photographed so I snuck in the wedding planners office and took a few shots. (no I didn't get asked to leave)

2011-04-21T22:50:00.000-07:00

Reflections in glass in the Aria (before I was escorted out) "Textures and Light"

I have been really excited about going back to City Center. I remembered a restraunt in the Mandirin Hotel when I was there at Christman that had this amazing wall of textures. I wanted to come back some time and shoot it. I could have used all 10 of this weeks images from here. It was amazing.
shadows on a waterfall

got the corners

CSN Habitat

2011-04-17T15:00:00.000-07:00

I had an enjoyable shoot this week. Henderson is a mixture of old really old (at least by Las Vegas standards) homes and businesses. We started out at the Rainbow Club Casino for breakfast. Good food cheap prices. I am finally starting to realize about layering in these documentary photographs how to make images not look flat and one dimentional. Forground middleground and background. Except for a few dog incidents everything went relatively smooth. " Platinum Suites" Really! Platinum?

Redneck Lock

" Shopping Cart Graveyard"

"Wash Day" I remember having to do this. I didn't like it at the time but I think I wouldn't mind doing it again. I remember your clothes had such a wonderful fresh smell to them.

" Watering the Grass" Not much grass in this yard only where the laundry hangs.

" Locked Down" The chairs and the table on Water street were all locked together

" Hot Water" well maybe 10 years ago

"Home is where you lay your head"

"Crystal Cleaners and Laundry"

"Cracked" This is my favorite of all of the images. It just all worked for me.

2011-04-01T22:19:00.000-07:00

"Waiting" 1 A Assignment:China Town : "Waiting" 1 Not just China Town proper but surrounding areas as well. I started out by going to China Town on Spring Mt in the evening after my nephew's Eagle Scout Court of Honor. These were the best shops from that Tues. Night shoot. I am not sure technically which is the better image. This little old lady was either waiting for a ride or was just to tired to stand. They are called "Waiting" After this shoot I think I know what my final assignment will be. But who knows it has changed 3 times already . "Waiting" 2 "Tree Tops" "The Cutting Edge" "Grafiti Between the Lines" "Receiving" "Paint on Steroids" "Leading Lines"Thanks Heather for this one! "Car Wash" "China Town"

LV Documents City Center

2011-03-22T09:47:00.000-07:00

This was my first time at City Center. I enjoyed it very much. There was so much to see I will shoot it completely different next time I go.

Las Vegas Up High

2011-03-15T15:02:00.000-07:00

Well with weddings, decorating, work and everything else this assignment of Las Vegas up High was a little harder to accomplish than others. I went to several locations. Got kicked off one parking lot garage, and now know how to access the 30th floor of the Luxor without a room key. It was a fun assignment and I might try it again sometime.

CSN People

2011-03-04T22:46:00.000-08:00

Chefs on break playing dominos

A homeless lady with no where to do

This lady didn't realize the water pistol was aming at her hense the title "Just shoot me"

I am happy to say I never had to do this job. But I have enjoyed the bennefits.

This was an easier photo shoot than others I like photographing people. That being said. I am not a people photographer by any stretch. I am petrified to take wedding pictures or even family pictures. There is too much expectation and only one chance to get it right. Landscape lighting is so different you are waiting for just the right light with landscape with people you are looking for just the right moment. A look, a pose, a situation, a moment in time. I enjoyed the people shoot.

My new tatoo this guy was eager to pose for us.

CSN Art District

2011-03-01T21:49:00.001-08:00

These images were taken in the Art Distrist of Las Vegas for a College class called Las Vegas Documents.

Maybe I am getting the hang of this. Or not. I am so out of my comfort zone. But I am growing. This class is helping me to see things in a new way. Shadows and reflections become art. Fences over art become new art. I am enjoying this class.

Original Images Photography by Diana Petersen - Opening Reception at Sunrise Library - Reception images courtesy of Kim Cochrane

2011-02-25T12:02:00.000-08:00

February 24th was a milestone for me. My first solo library exhibit. 22 prints exhibited at Sunrise Library, Las Vegas, Nevada. I was very excited when the Library Gallery Coordinator asked if I would be willing to make this exhibit a traveling exhibit that would go to other libraries in Clark County. Of course I said "Yes Absolutely." Who knows maybe there will be another opening reception in a few months at a new library.
Dennis had his first CD release February 16th, "Spirits of Red Rock" Dennis provided the mood for the exhibit by playing during the reception. This was a big milestone for him as well. We are enjoying our before retirement years with lots of exciting new adventures and anticipate many more to come. This is not a done deal yet but I am hoping.
I would like to thank all who came and supported Dennis and I on this special night. Family and friends and even a few homeless people who wandered in to partake of some goodies. Thanks again all.
There are a few individuals I would like to thank. Susie I couldn't have done this without your help. You missed most of the reception because you were so busy making sure the refeshment table was alway full and looking good. You make me feel so special. You are such a good friend. Kim thanks for taking the images of my special night and helping before we opened. It made the night very special to have these images what a grood friends I am blessed with. Harriet and Linda thanks for saving the day, my brain was on overload and when I realized I had forgotten some things you were right there to help me. You are such good friends and as always I know I can count on you in a pinch.

Last but not least a special thanks to my sweetheart, Dennis you made the night extra special with your music. You are the love of my life and I couldn't imagine my world without you in it.

CSN Love Las Vegas Style

2011-02-19T00:02:00.000-08:00

CSN - Love Las Vegas was a very difficult shoot for me. It was really hard seeing Love in Las Vegas on Las Vegas Blvd. I know it was Las Vegas Style, that being said I live in Las Vegas and LV Blvd. isn't my style of love. After leaving LV Blvd I drove around and found some more traditional places for love. Call me a succor for love. But "Sluts are people too" Just made me feel sad. I understand this is a documentary class and I am trying to get better at seeing and documenting. My favorite images came after leaving down town.

Dennis Petersen recording artist

2011-02-16T23:36:00.000-08:00

That is right. My husband Dennis Petersen is a new recording artist. "Spirits Of Red Rock" We just received his first shipment of CD's today. On March 19th he will have a meet and greet at Elements the gift shop at Red Rock Canyon Visitors Center He will be playing Native American Flute Music and there will be a reception from 2-4 pm that day. He will sign CD's if there is a request.

LV Documents Beliago

2011-02-12T16:01:00.000-08:00

I had to do this assignment early due to my knee surgery the same day as the class was to go shooting. My knee surgery went well and I am recovering quickly. I am looking forward to the next assignment.

I had some really good ideas for this shoot but time ran out and I didn't get all the shots I had envisioned. I had wanted to get there soon enough to get pictures of maids cleaning rooms, and room service trays in the corridors but with the time restraints facing me and my surgery date looming just around the corner I only got to shoot for 2 hours. It is surprising how fast time flies when you are taking pictures.

My first location was on the top floor of the parking garage. There were some interesting views. Next I went to the casino floor. I have only been in the Bellagio one other time. (Yes I know I live here but I never go to the strip unless we have company or are going to a show)

My second location was inside a sculpture gallery. I asked the attendant if I could take pictures of the flower arrangements. I assured him I would not be taking pictures of the art themselves. He gave me an OK and so I looked around and found some orchids in a glass. After taking some images the gentleman who gave me permission decided to resend his approval. I was asked to leave. This was my first time to get booted out of anywhere. I complied.

I then went into the Atrium and then the Lobby. They have a special decorations up to celebrate the Chinese New Year "The Year of the Rabbit" I had fun and would like to go back and get more images.

LV Documents Fremont Street

2011-02-04T20:57:00.000-08:00

Robert Farnham and I were partners on this shoot. I had heard that a section of the Berlin Wall was in the men's restroom in the Union Plaza. I was sure of it. Heather our instructor said she was sure it was at the Main Street Station. Well we went looking and didn't find it at the Union Plaza but then I remembered there was a place you could see all the way down Fremont Street. Sure enough the pool had been converted to the Fire Fly Restaurant. It was no longer in service but we had a great view from there all the way down Fremont Street. When I woke up Thursday morning it was cold, in the 20's. Bob and I had so many layers of clothes on we started overheating as we were inside shooting instead of being outside in the cold. Not a bad problem to have. We started pealing off layers. We found some glasses and cards and a Hershey's kiss and set up a photo shoot. It wasn't until Bob pulled out the Martini Glass that I started cracking up. "Hey Bob I found an old olive on the floor over there" So we put the petrified olive in the Martini Glass filled with 7 up. It looked good. Bob had to leave soon so we were off to find the Berlin Wall. Sure enough it was right where Heather said it was. We got security to keep all the patrons out while I went in and took pictures. The security guard was very friendly and says he gets this a lot and is used to taking women in the men's restroom. The roomer was that there was originally a trough type of urinal so you could see the wall better. However apparently many people didn't like the wall or what it stood for so they would pee all over the wall instead of in the urinals. Now there is individual urinals. What a shame. You really can't see the big picture of what the wall looks like any more. Bob left and I got a new partner Jim from Kingman. We did some shooting on the Main drag for a while, then Harriet called and we met up at the 4 Queens, we walked down to Fremont and Maryland. We found some really wonderful subjects to take pictures of. We were walking and I saw there were people in this shop. It was a boxing studio. I knocked on the door, they unlocked it (very suspiciously seeing how there were 2 very white older women at the door) and asked if we could take pictures of someone with boxing gloves on. They were very nice and invited us in and had a couple of guys get gloves on the I suggested they get in the ring. It was really quite fun. The clicks were going as fast as we could go. We then started back and met up with Heather and the group of class members and walked around for a while. Found an empty pool, a place where a homeless person was living and some great textures to shoot. I think this will be a fun class. The first week was.

College life to start at age 56

2011-01-25T23:32:00.000-08:00

This is my first week in College. I know I am doing this a little late in life but what the heck. You can never learn too much.

Joseph City Trip or should I say Adventure

2010-05-03T13:42:00.001-07:00

The trip to Joseph City to see Dennis' mom and dad and take home our little Tage to Flagstaff was uneventful and we had alot of fun, until we started for home. This is a picture just outside of Winslow headed toward Flagstaff. Yes that is a duststorm ahead. The day before they closed this stretch of freeway on I 40 down for 24 hours because the wind was 60 mph and visibility was zero. We made a mad dash to see if we could get through before it closed again.
Well we almost made it. Some truckers were going to fast for the road condiditons and there was a 3 semi pile up. We waited for over an hour. Trucks as far as you could see behind us and..

As far as you could see in front of us. We had Caleb and Sawyer in our truck watching a movie so that wasn't so bad they were pretty much oblivious. The bad part was Bridger had started throwing up the night before we left and this hold up wasn't helping matters. Branden and Lynn tried to find out what was the hold up when they found out about accident they desided to take the boys and go back to Joseph City. It wasn't 2 minutes when they called and said Sawyer was now throwing up. (Lucky us it wasn't in the truck) So they went back to Joseph City. and we sat waiting. Couldn't go back we had passed the only overpass by 20 feet we were stuck for the duration.

Finally the traffic started moving after about an hour and a half. We stopped in Flag to pick up Danielle's stroller and see the grandkids. But it had started snowing on us just before we got to Flag and we desided not to stay for very long. =( It was good to see all of the kids they stayed home from school so we could see them. When we left Flag there were flurries and the we hit a full blown snow storm just outside of Flag all the way to Ashfork and beyond. Isn't this almost May?

Well what should have taken us 5 hours took us 10 but we're home and we are sad but happy to be here. We loved having Tage with us and Loved the trip with Branden, Lynne and the boys puking or not. We loved seeing Mom and Dad again and playing Rook. We will miss all of you.

Here's mud in your eye

2010-04-17T02:46:00.001-07:00

My Ella Bell at Granma and Grandpa Petersen's house in Joseph City

After the rain.

2010-04-16T19:00:00.000-07:00

Tage and Ezra playing in the dirt.

Cousins at play

Ezra loving playing in the dirt

cousins at play

sharing

The Wizard of OZ" Ballet Recitial

2010-04-16T15:34:00.000-07:00

Alexis preforming the "OZ Ballet"

Was that supose to be stage right or stage left?

The Alegro. I think? Ballet terms I am not so sure of. This image is of Alexis just leaving the stage in her leap.

Final bows

Grandpa's little ballerina

Treat of ice cream after the show

Home at last. What a fun night watching Alexis in her 2nd Ballet Recitial. You are such a tallented little Ballerina

2010-04-15T08:59:00.000-07:00

I love spagettie. Using the spoon needs some practice.

Digging in the dirt under the apricot tree in Grandmas' back yard.

Happy boy!

Dirt doesn't taste all that bad.

Red Rock Visitors Center & Hiking with Tage

2010-04-13T09:28:00.001-07:00

Climbing of a big lizard

Tage loves to run it's like herding cats. The only time he is semi still is when Grandpa is holding him.

Playing in the dirt.

Playing with rocks

discovering new things

going back to the car

Wore out

Back to normal wearing grandma's shoes. What a fun day.

Lauren spends the night

2009-07-28T04:41:00.001-07:00

Lauren Griffie is a 16 year old who has just got her drivers license. Of course we had to go celebrate so we went to Applebee's for dinner. We rented 2 movies and had popcorn and treats.

The next day we went and got matching french tip pedicures. (Except Grandpa)
we made a dream catcher and just relaxed. Oh she had to do her nails too. And yes that is her phone. Lauren is a texting maniac. It never leaves her side.

Lauren is growing up way to fast. Soon she will be a junior at Foothill High School this year.

We then went and watched Grandpa in his first Mini flute concert at the Caring Place. It was very good. We then went to the opening of the 26 annual NCC photo competition where one of my images was on display. All in all we had a great time with Lauren we were so happy you came to spend the night with us.

Dustin spends the night

2009-07-28T04:05:00.000-07:00

Dustin is on Summer Vacation he will be in 7th grade when he goes back to school this fall.

Dustin and Grandma went to Bonnie Springs and ate lunch. Then we came home and swam at Miss Susie's pool. It is a favorite place to play. We ate at Panda Express Dustin's fav. Orange Chicken.

The next day Grandpa and Dustin went for a hike to Mary Jane Falls. Those switchbacks are murder. But Dustin made it just fine

Dustin tried his hand at photography. Dustin you should join the camer club with Grandma, You have a good eye for pictures.

We had alot of fun with Dustin spending the night. Good luck in 7th grade.

Brayden spends the night

2009-07-28T03:56:00.000-07:00

Brayden spent the night this summer while on track break. He had fun swimming in Miss Susie's pool. Brayden had a great time taking underwater pictures with Grandpa's camera.

We played several games of Battleship and Brayden was #1

"He Sunk My Battleship"

Brayden also tried his artistic skills at water color painting. We also made dream catchers but sorry to say we didn't take any pictures of it. But it did turn out good.

Come again Brayden we loved having you here with Grandma and Grandpa

Hike to Big Falls, Mount Charleston, Nevada

2009-07-26T07:20:00.000-07:00

To get to Big Falls you start out on the Mary Jane trail and just before you start the switchbacks you go off the trail to the left. It was a harder hike than MaryJane Falls because all those boulders had to be climbed over to get to Big falls. I have scrapes and brusies to prove it. But it was worth it. The critters were wonderful to see and the falls was great too. It started ot get overcast and when the thunders started visions of being in that canyon with a flash flood and lightning made us head back. I could have stayed for hours. I love to hike. This last picture is looking back towards Mary Jane falls in the distance.

Chrochet Elbow

2009-07-26T06:33:00.000-07:00

I went to the Dr. on Friday. I have tennis elbow but since I don't play tennis I think my cause is from crocheting and masking vinyl. I finished Scouts baby blanket Thursday before going to the Dr. I didn't want him saying I couldn't crochet for a while. So I got a shot of cortisone and a band to wear around my forearm. It helped a lot. No more pain for now. But no more baby blankets for a while, I'm not sure what to do about the vinyl masking. Retire?

My first 2 Blue Ribbons in Advanced Division

2009-07-24T23:48:00.000-07:00

Tonight was my first night in the Advanced Division for my camera club. I was nervous and excited. Like Melanie said "I'm playing with the big boys now" Well at least that is what I think she said. Any way. This is my fist blue ribbon image it is of the Grand Canyon It is titled
"Rain Falling on Silence" category Monochrome / Nature I love this picture. I think it is one of my favorites

This is my 2nd blue ribbon. it is called "Wild Hogs" 4 Britts on a road trip" This was taken at the ward camp out last November. I didn't think it was a very good picture then I was told by a good friend at the camera club. Crop out what isn't necessary in you picture.. Wa la a so so image becomes a blue ribbon image

These guys just happened to be in Valley of Fire at the same time our ward was on a camp out. They had just flown to Las Vegas from London rented Harley's and were on a road trip. They were taking pictures of each other when I volunteered to take pictures with their cameras. Then I asked if I could take there picture so I ran back to the truck and got my camera out. And here it is . Category People / color (it was printed on metalic paper) Another favorite.

This was scored a 25 That would qualify for a blue ribbon if no one was higher. But there were so many wonderful pictures in the panoramic catagory that I didn't stand a chance. this image was printed 12" x 36" on metalic paper. This picture was taken in January at Red Rock

2 out of 3 is pretty good for my first time out. Well I am pleased with my efforts and am looking forward to being in this group.

16 of us went out to Applebee's afterwards I bought a round of desert shooters for everyone who wanted one. It was my way of celebrating.

Ella doesn't have cancer

2009-07-19T04:53:00.000-07:00

We recieved great news . After many days of worring , prayers were answered and we were informed that 3 year old Ella has "Spindle Cell Nevus" it is a black mole that mimics melenoma. She doesn't have cancer. She will have to undergo more surgery. (outpatient) to remove the part that wasn't removed the first time . It will probably require some stitches. Michelle and Alvin are very relieved that it was caught in this stage, and so are we. We love our little Ella.

Nevada Camera Club 26th Annual Electronic Photo Competion

2009-07-14T20:45:00.000-07:00

I would like to thank all of the friends and family who came to the Opening Reception for the NCC Electronic Photo Competition. It makes me feel so wonderful that you took time out of your busy schedule to be there. Here are some of the images that received awards. Besides the one first place image I didn't know that any other images had received awards. It was quite a surprise to have many of them be recognized because it was an open competition with amateurs and professional photographers competing together.

"One Of Our Own" / First Place / Photo Journalism
I submitted 10 images for the competition. These images took 2nd , 3rd or honorable mention
I didn't realize that I had won anything other than the 1st place image that was hanging in the lobby until the slide show started with all the images that were entered in the contest.

Sky Eyes

You aren't listening

The Procession

The Sacred Datura Blossom

Put Your Shoulder To The Wheel

Alexis spends the night

2009-07-08T17:24:00.001-07:00

After picking up Alexis at her house we went to Mc Donalds. (Her Choice) The toys in the happy meal are from the new Ice Age movie. After eating and playing that is where we went.Alexis got Rudy from Ice Age Dawn of the Dinosaurs
We got popcorn and slurpee and watched the movie together.

The water was a little cold and the wind was blowing at the water park by our house so

Miss Alexis wanted to get warm on the hot cement. Alexis also got Grandpa to swing her. When we got home we ate spagettie and watched a movie that Alexis brought. "Little Monsters" I wouldn't recomend this movie to kids we turned it off and went to bed. However when Alexis spends the night it is Musical Beds she starts out in one bed ends up in ours where there is now no room for us so this time Dennis sept in another room.

By the way Alexis snores as loud as I do.

Alexis wanted to go on a hike like her bother Jace. However we found out today that Alexis doesn't like to hike. She lasted about 50 feet and didn't want to hike anymore. Luckily the hike was only 52 feet long. This is a sping at Red Rock. It used to have gold fish in it but they have taken them out and returned it to a state of moss and skum. Alexis thought there were way to many bugs fro her liking and we left after 10 minutes

Alexis wanted a picture taken on top of a rock like her brother Jace. When she got to the top of the rock this was Her pose. What a girl!

We then went to Spring Mountain State Park to look at the horses, Anne and Harriette. They have a milk cow now too. I wanted to hike up to the lake but Miss Alexis was all hiked out.
She was done and ready to go home.

On the way home we stopped and Alexis got her Beta fish that I promised her. She named the fish Minnie. Cute name Alexis, take care of Minnie and don't over feed her. It was fun having you spend the night. Sorry we didn't get to the fingernail painting.

\I guess we'll have to do this again some time.

2009-07-07T07:49:00.000-07:00

Jennelle, Brady, Scout and Pennelope have left the building.

After 6 months of living with us this little family left for California. Brady starts Dental School in August and Scout will be born in Ausust. It will be a busy month for them.

Good Luck and God Speed

It was a very sad day when they left. Dennis and I will miss Nelli's cooking. She has become a very good cook. (except for grapefuit fish, don't ask)

Packed to the brim in the Versa

Here's the key back

Going... Going... Gone... We will miss you! Thanks for all you did to make our lives a little brighter while you were here. (At least you won't have to listen to me snore anymore.)

Happy 4th of July from Jace

2009-07-04T22:58:00.000-07:00

Jace wanted to celebrate the 4th a little early so we got some sparklers and he wrote his name in sparklers. Cool !!!! Grandpa took the pictures that's even cooler he couldn't believe his little camera could do this.

Hike to Pine Creek at Redrock

2009-07-04T22:07:00.001-07:00

Pine Creek in Red Rock Canyon 30 minutes from Las Vegas it was 100 degrees at 8:00am and only 80 degrees at Pine Creek.

Grandpa spent his time playing the flute and teaching Jace how to play.
There was even water still running and there were suprises in the water that a 7 year old boy couldn't resist
Jace was a little squeemish at first but then the boy in him kicked in an we coudn't keep him out of the water

Then he found them ... tad poles

I spent the time taking picutes this is one of my favorites

Jace finally got the hang of it and started to catch and release the tad poles some had already spouted leggs and would jump off his hands

Grandpa and Jace

Jace the mighty tad pole hunter. We had so much fun we love hiking with the Grandkids

Officially I am now in the Advanced group at the Camera Club

2009-06-27T01:03:00.000-07:00

Tonight I got my 5th blue ribbon "Sky Eyes"as an Intermediate. I now have to compete in the Advanced catagory with some really great photographers. I am scared and excited too. Here are the other blue ribbon winners.

"Sky Eyes"

"Water Boogers"

"You Aren't Listening"

"Horse n' Around"

"Put Your Shoulder To The Wheel"

Flagstaff Grandchildren

2009-06-27T00:57:00.001-07:00

We had so much fun with the Flagstaff grandchildren, Danica, Emmy, Alvin, Ella, and Tage. We went to The Spring Preserve to the trading post, ran through the sprinklers, went swimming with cousins, went to Pistol Pete's and rode the roller coaster. And Alvin learned to ride a two wheeler!!!! (sorry Alvin no pics) Thanks for coming we can't wait until Granpas campout to see you again.

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-15T11:02:00.001-08:00

This is the First Creek Falls. Who knew that there were waterfalls like this at Red Rock. I certainly didn't and I am an avid hiker out at Red Rock. Dennis supprised me with a hike for Valentine's Day. It was so enjoyable. Even though there was snow everywhere it was really only cold in the shade. Thanks D for a great day.

NCC Annual Juried Exhibition 2009

2009-01-09T23:36:00.000-08:00

I entered 6 images into this years NCC Juried Exhibition. Out of 100 + pictures only 23 were selected to be in a traveling exhibiton from our camera club. This exhibition will travel to many of the Clark County Librarys. This is the first time one of my images was selected. This is the image that was selected. I talked with the judges afterwards and got good feedback about the images that were not chosen. I am learning all the time. It was my goal to have one image make it and I did. 2009 is really looking great for me.

Professional Photographer???

2009-01-05T23:34:00.001-08:00

Wooohooo, I had a meeting with the buyers for Red Rock Canyon Visitors Center Monday, January 5the 2009 and they are going to be carrying my photography Images in their Gift Store at the Visitors Center. So if you are ever at the Visitors Center and you see a picture that is signed by a D Petersen that would be me. You can say you knew me when. When what I don't know. Dennis says when I was more humble. I don't know if I was ever that humble to start with. I never dreamed that this would happen to me this soon after starting photography. Dennis what have you done? Thank you for buying me my camera a year ago for my birthday without you and your support this wouldn't be possible. There will be signed and matted pictures, signed note cards, magnets with my images and I will be working on getting postcards made. Thank you all for putting up with me I know how annoying I have been asking you about my pictures and asking your help in naming them. But it has all come to this I am a professional photographer.

"Peace Be Still"

"The Meltdown"

"Ice Age"

Bristlecone Sentinal"

"A Break in the storm

Some major events of 2008

2009-01-02T09:38:00.000-08:00

1. President Hinkley Dies
2. President Monson becomes the new Prophet
3. Mitt Romney runs for President of the US
4. Dennis and I get 3 new Grandbabies in one year! Mya Marie Avila,Tage Jorgensen Reber,
and Ezra Joseph Petersen
5. Standing up for Marriage passes in California
6. Twilight was made into a movie
7. I made it out of Beginners at the Camera Club
8. Ryan and Brittany move into their new home
9. Dennis and I travel to Hawaii and Alaska in the same year
10. Brady Graduates and gets accepted into Dental School
11. Ryan Graduates and enters Metro as an officer
12. Jennelle and Brady move to Las Vegas
13. Lauren makes the Club Volley Ball Team
14. We travel to Flagstaff for Tages' blessing Michelle and Alvin's last baby?
15. Branden, Lynne, Caleb and Sawyer come South for the Winter
16. Ryan & Brittany have their 1st baby Ezra Joseph Petersen (at home)
17. The anouncement of Branden and Lynne expecting this summer
18. Dennis makes his first Native American Flute CD of his music
19. Dennis and I celebrated our 16th Anniversary 17 years Sunday January 4th
20. D&D Celebrates 11 years in business

Fingers and Toes

2008-12-29T00:28:00.001-08:00

Unbelieveable but these are Ezra's toes they are so long and look at how long his feet are compared to Ryans.

Sorry it's blurry

Ezra's fingers are long too. Amazing

It's been a good year for me at the Camera Club

2008-12-27T21:12:00.000-08:00

I received my 5th Blue Ribbon in November from the Nevada Camera Club that I belong to. That means that I am officially not a beginner any more. The divisions are Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, Master. When you recieve 5 blue ribbons in your division you are automaticly moved to the next division. I have been moved to intermediate. I hope it's not as hard as I am expecting it to be to get Blue Ribbons. (a blue ribbon is a combined score of 24 or higher from 3 judges. However if there are more than one person with that high of score the judges pick from those images to determine the blue ribbon image. There are 3 judges with 9 being the highest score.) I have never recieved a 9. Here are my 5 blue ribbon images.

"Twlight Zone" Catagory "Abstract" 4-25-08

Taken at the Springs Preserve, Las Vegas, Nevada

"Hang Ten, Dude" Catagory "Nature" 6-27-08

Taken on Turtle Beach, Oahu, Hawaii

"Pipeline" Catagory Club Challenge "Motion" 6-27-08

Taken at Pipeline Beach, Ohau, Hawaii

"The Canopy" Catagory Unclassified Black and White 10-24-08

Taken at Wiamai Falls Botanical Garden, Oahu, Hawaii

"Aye Chi WaWa" Catagory "Animals and Pets" 11-21-08

Taken in my daughter Amie's backyard these are her pets the Dog's name is "Roxy"

Our Christmas Angel

2008-12-27T12:10:00.000-08:00

On December 25th Ezra Joseph Petersen was born. Our neighbor Jimmy and Susie put this angel in the top of their 40 foot pine tree. It was appropriate I inclued it here to welcome our own little Christmas Angel

Mom, Dad and Baby had a rough road getting this little spirit here . But all is well and he is adorable. Welcome to our family Ezra.

8lbs 6oz 21.5 inches long. He has dark brown hair and long long fingers and LONG LONG toes.

Proud Grandpa

Brittany had a very hard labor and delivery and is doing okay but will need some time to recooperate. Ryan's work gives him parental leave so he will be home with Brittney and Ezra for 6 weeks. I think Ryan realizes that it will be no vacation, but is excited and happy to be a dad.

This is Grand baby number 14 "Welcome To Our World"

Ward Campout

2008-12-27T11:59:00.001-08:00

Our ward camps out in the Valley of Fire every year. We took Brayden with us but no pictures of him. The minute the truck stopped he was off wandering and climbing rocks. Here are some pictures I took while we were there.

Elepahnt Rock. It is pretty famous. I got up really early to get good light. When I was coming back I noticed the Valley of Fire Marathon was getting ready to start so I stopped to take pictures. This is the one Lynne was going to run if they had come down sooner.As I was taking pictures I looked up and to my supprise it was Lucy a girl I went to high school with she was as supprised as I was.
As we were getting ready to leave these guys were taking pictures of each other and I offered to take a group picture for them. When they said yes I was taken aback. Their Brittish accents were unmistakable. They said they flew in to Las Vegas and all rented Harley's to take a road trip. How FUN! I want to do that.

Jerome, Idaho

2008-12-27T11:22:00.000-08:00

Darla and I take a Road Trip

Darla and I drove to Jerome, for my Uncle Henry's funeral in Jerome, Idaho. It was about a 10 hour drive. Darla helped drive the last 4 hours

I couldn't help but stop and take pictures along the way.

My brother Mike and my Aunt Marrion. Marrion remeinds me of my mom. I miss her.

Farwell Henry

St. Benedicts Hospital where I was born. In the day mother's were given medicine that knocked you out and when you woke up you had a baby. Things are really different now aren't they.

Plesant Planes House this is the first house I remember living in. The school was on the same property. My grandpa Newman lived in the School basement apartment. I was the Christmas Angel in my 1st grade play. I have good memories here. This is also the place where Randy got the stitches over his eye. He was standing a little to close when I was swinging the golf club.

the back porch

I went to first grade while living in this house my dad taught 6th grade and was the Principal

It's a horse correll now

I took tap dance here

This is the home of Kim Shafer this is where I got my first Kiss!

The Lilac House we had lilacs on the right side of this picture from the front of the house all the way to the back of the property. I remember my dad lifting me up to see my first Robin nest with little blue eggs. It was magical. This is where we had a pillow fight when my brothers were babysitting us. The pillows broke and feathers went everywhere. It was in the middle of winter and they made us go outside by the curb and shake off all the feathers.

Jefferson Elementary I went to 2nd and 3rd grades here. My cousin Connie and I were in 2nd grade together. They wouldn't let us be in 3rd grade together I was devistated. Then we moved to Overton.

This is the Bank that my mom worked in and where she met my dad.

This is what I do.

2008-11-16T23:33:00.001-08:00

I am 54 years old I am up on a scafold that is about 15 ft off the ground. There is definately something wrong with this picture? I think that I should be on a river somewhere fishing. Ya that's it. Fishing.

The Reber Clan at Tage's blessing

2008-11-16T23:30:00.000-08:00

Tage is wearing the slip on shoes Nelli made. They don't match but they are so Cute.

August- Jennelle is working with me again.

2008-11-07T13:20:00.000-08:00

Jennelle and Brady got back from their Europe trip and she was looking for some part time work. I was happy to ablige. Since Darla has been teaching full time I really needed some help. I felt guilty everytime I had to call Darla and beg her to help when she is working so hard already. Thanks Jennelle. Jennelle stepped it up and handled the business with Darla's help when Dennis and I went to Alaska for 2 weeks. But she handled it well.

August - A trip to The Springs Preserve

2008-11-07T13:14:00.000-08:00

Alexis and Jace were so excited to go to the Springs Preserve to trade what they had found in nature. They can get points for trading in things they find and then trade their points for other things. Jace traded in a Dragonfly and Alexis traded in a Tarantula Wasp they found both of these dead at their house.Alexis traded for a Casada shell

August- Mya's Blessing

2008-11-07T13:07:00.001-08:00

We were invited to attend Mya Marie Avila's blessing. It was a wonderful day. Danielle and Jammie invited us over after the blessing for lunch. And as always it was good food, family and friends.

The Avila Family

Mya's dress was beautiful.Danielle makes all of Mya's hair bows. They are so cute.

Grandma's Girls

August- Camera Club at Nelson Night Shoot

2008-11-07T12:43:00.000-08:00

I belong to the Nevada Camera Club. The beginners group led by the more experienced members of the club. Took our group to Nelson, Nevada. A family has an old movie set there with old buildings cars and cool stuff. Jennelle, Linley, Terri Hutchings (a friend from High School) and I went. You have to get everything set up during the day. Because you only take pictures in the dark. Jennelle, twirling a glow stick or was it a glow stick ball?
Painting objects in the dark with light was a facinating thing to do. You can actually make it look like lights are on on buildings with no electricity.

This car is really not blue

I would like to try this again some time.

This was the last shot of the night. We found an old outhouse and put a light in the moon and painted the exterrior with green light. I liked it. Then we realized it was Midnight and desided to come home.

JULY - Grandpa's Campout

2008-11-02T21:18:00.001-08:00

We took everyone to Pistol Pete's and it has a Roller Coster that you can ride as much as you want.

Look at Alvin in this picture. This was before the rollercoster started

This was after the first time around. They had to stop the roller coster and let him off.

Well we found something he loved to do.

Everyone got balloons, everything from Spiderman to Squigward

Waterballoons in pajama's

Danica had a hard time popping her balloon unfortunatly for Dustin, Jace had no problem.
Finally!!!

We went swimming at Desert Breeze pool and then ate at McDonalds.

What a fun Grandpa's campout!

JULY - Alvin, Emmy, and Danica

2008-11-02T20:46:00.000-08:00

Danica, Emmy, and Alvin came for a week to stay with us. Alvin was so happy he was old enough to come to Grandma and Grandpa's this year.

We stopped at the Famous Snow Cap icecream and hamberger place where they play jokes on you when you order things. On old route 66 in Seligman

Inside the Snow Cap

Old cars at the Snow Cap

Danica and Emmy learned to swim. And earned some extra cash in the bargan.

Alvin was so brave and put his face in the water. We had lots of fun. Next to come this weekend was Grandpa's Campout.

July - Track Break

2008-11-02T20:35:00.001-08:00

JULY

Dustin, Brayden and Jace spent the night during their track break. We went swimming at Miss Susie's , went to see Journey to the Center of the Earth in 3 D. And went to the pool it was a fun couple of days.

They were NOT supose to be blowing bubbles but Jace couldn't control it.

I call this one Water Boogers.

June -The Zion Canyon Flute Festival

2008-10-26T22:41:00.000-07:00

The last weekend in June Dennis and I went to the Zion Canyon Flute Festival. There were classes, open mic for preformers, vendor booths. Dennis bought 2 flutes there. Those who have heard Dennis play his native american flutes have been very impressed at how good he really is.

His music is as good or better than the people who played there.

The open mic stage.

Dennis purchasing a flute from the maker. It was a fun day. We will probablly go next year.

June - Mya Marie Avila Arrives

2008-10-26T16:35:00.000-07:00

Mya Marie Avila was born June 30, 2008 at St. Rose Dominican Hospital. Alexis and Jace stayed the night at Grandma and Grandpas house then we came to see Mya. After the visit Jammie took the kids home and spent some time with them. I stayed at the Hospital to help Danielle so she could get some much needed rest. The next day they came home. Jace and Alexis go to see their new little sister Mya. We stopped and got flowers for Mommy and MyaWith a little help from the epidural Danielle didn't feel too much pain. Mother and Baby did well.

This is one proud daddy. Jammie congratulations!

Alexis this is your new little sister. Don't even think about teaching her anything.

Grandpa helps Alexis understand how to touch softly.
Jace loves his new little sister Mya

Aunt Brittany and Uncle Ryan also came to visit Mya in the Hospital.

Jammie had the laptop there and we had a video confrence call from Lynne, Branden, Caleb, Sawyer, Amie, Lauren, Dustin and Brayden in Alaska. Wow Technology.

Does Alexis look like she likes Mya? I think so. Getting ready to go home.

Beautiful Baby Girl, Mya Marie Avila

All day long the day Mya came home Jace was wiggling his loose tooth. Look how loose it was. He would not let anyone pull it out.

The next thing ya know Jame comes in the living room. With this cheesy grin. Look! I pulled out my tooth. Jace will always remember when he lost his first tooth. It was the day his little sister Mya came home from the hospital.

June - Brady's Graduation and our Hawaii Vacation

2008-10-26T15:13:00.000-07:00

We would tell our friends that we HAD to go to Hawaii for our son in law's graduation. There are just some things you just have to do. (No one twisted our arms.)

We had a wonderful time there. We rented a house on the beach across from Foodland in Laie, where Jennelle and Brady lived and went to school at BYU Hawaii. Our first stop was the Shrimp Shack. Several places we visited were Wiamaia Falls Botanical Garden. Dennis took alot of flower pictures there. (By the way my latest first place ribbon at the Camera Club was the Canopy from there) Arizonia Memorial, Mossimotos, the beach, 4 wheeler trip back into the interrior. That was a blast. Here are some pictures from the trip.

Congratulations Brady!!!!

This is a picture from the back patio of our house we rented. We were literally 20 feet away from the beach. Jennelle and Brady stayed with us after their last day at the Dorms. Jennelle taking pictures of Brady swimming.

There are so many of these places along the North Shore Road. We loved stopping at the Shrimp shacks to feast.

Some of Brady's underwater photography with Dennis' new underwater camera.

Can you believe that I could get underwater far enough to take this picture?

Another fist place Photos from Camera Club "Pipeline in June"

We stopped at Turtle beach and found lots of turtles hawled out on the beach. This is another First Place Camera Club Photo. "Hang Ten Dude"

On our 4 wheeler trip we weren't allowed to take pictures until we stopped. This is where they filmed Jurasic Park, King Kong , Pearl Harbor, and other films.

One our our rest stops

Water Lili at Wiamaia Falls Botanical Garden . Enough points for a first place but someone beat me out for first place I came in Second.

A photo of a rare White Hybiscus that Dennis took at the botanical gardens

My latest First place photo camera club "The Canopy" Taken at the botanical gardens . October Camera Club.

There are to many pictures to show here but it was one of our favorite trips to Hawaii and we will treasure all the memories always.

Lookie! Lookie!

2008-10-26T09:57:00.000-07:00

Michelle made me a new background. What do you think?

Owl Arch aka: 7 mile arch

2008-05-25T22:24:00.001-07:00

Saturday May 24th, We left home around 7am. Drove to the Valley of Fire turn off and drove another 10 miles on dirt road. Out by buffington pockets. Dale, Kristen, Ronnie, Dennis and I hiked to Owl Arch 7 miles round trip. It was 50 degrees when we started. On Monday the high was 110 degrees.

These rock formations were really neet to look at.

It reminded me of the Askan art of the Inuites.

Rock art painted by Native American's who once lived in this area.
I don't know why it is called owl arch.
Ron tried to climb to the arch but wasn't able to make it all the way in his hiking boots.

It rained then was sunny. It rained and then was sunny. It rained and then was sunny.

At least there were clouds in our pictures.

Rubiks Cube in7 easy steps

2008-05-19T17:06:00.001-07:00

I happend to pick up a rubik's cube that someone left at the ward campout. I have really never tried to solve the puzzle. So like any good amerature I looked on line to get the directions to solve "The Rubik's Cube" puzzle. Even with the directions it took 3 days about 15 hours. I did it. I started on our way home from the campout got up Sunday morning tried again went to church came back and started again. Was up until 12:00 pm got up Monday morning at 9:00 am didn't get dressed was in my bathrobe till 4:30 when at last I solved it!!!! I will now throw it away and never look at it again.

Trivia about Rubik's Cube

The fastest time recorded to solve: 9.18 seconds by Edouard Cambon of France 2008

The youngest person to solve Rubik's Cube 4 years 6 months and 10 days old time to solve 1minute 28.06 seconds. (boy don't I feel stupid)

The most expensive Rubik's Cube 1.5 million dollars in 1995 it had 22.5 karats of amethyst 34 karats of rubies, 34 karats of emeralds and set in 18 karat gold

My Bucket List things I want to do before I kick the Bucket

2008-05-08T22:06:00.000-07:00

Not in any particular order

*1. See the Northern Lights / Check
2. Travel to Denmark
3. Travel to Italy, Venice, Rome, Pizia
4. Catch a Steelhead Trout by myself.
5. Be my perfect weight again
6. Find Sarah Barden's Family
7. Have a picture published in National Geographic
8. Win a photo contest.
9. Have all my grandchildren know me.
10. Go to Disney World
11. See the statue of Liberty
12. See Mount Rushmore
13. See a Glacier Calf
14. See a polar bear in the wild
15. See Monument Valley
16. See Arches National Park
17. Travel to Africa on photo safari
*18. Visit Washington DC monuments and Arlinton National Cemetary / Check
19. Hike to Havasupi
20. Travel to Australia and swim the Great Barrier Reef
21. Travel to New Zeland
22. Visit all the National Parks
23. Witness the migration of the Monarch Butterfly to Mexico
24. See the Carabou Migration in Alaska
25. Go on at least one Mission for the church
26. Swim with the stingless Jelly Fish
*27. Hike to the Peak at Mt. Charleston / Check

Tagged by Nelli 6 random things about me.

2008-05-08T16:56:00.001-07:00

1. I love the Desert! I don't like being cold.

I Especially love the desert in the spring. Life is so fragile here and life seems to hang on no matter where God places it. I love it when I see the new grass on the desert it is one of my favorite moments.

The desert is beautiful you just have to look in places you aren't use to seeing beauty.

2. I love to fish.

I don't like to eat fish. My fish have to taste like chicken. I am learning to fly fish. Yep that's me in waders. I have been deep sea fishing 3 times in my life and of the 3 times I went, I got sea sick 3 times. I did however manage to fish one of the times when we were in Puerta Viarta, Mexico inbetween being sick and I caught a Yellow Tail Tuna. I have given up deep sea fishing. Stream fishing is my favorite. 3. I love Mountains!!!!! I love Red Rock and the Escarpment. Give me the wide open spaces of the West. I need to be able to see more than 50 feet in front of me. I went to visit Art in North Carolina, trees, trees, trees, everywhere trees. I was clostrophobic and couldn't wait to get back to the west where you can see forever.

This is the background of our last family picture. I really love hiking all the trails in Red Rock Conservation Area. This is from Pine Creek 4. I love to hike.

This was Dennis' birthday present to me.

Hiking the Peak at Mt. Charleston for my 50th birthday. This hike is considered a very difficult hike because there is no water on the mountain and you have to carry all your own water. We left at 6 am and got back at 6 pm. One of the longest days in my life. But I am so happy to have checked that one off my list. On one of our pre hikes we got caught in a lightning storm out in the open at the saddle. Lightning was hitting the ground 25 feet away from us. We could see it hit the ground. We could only lay as flat as we could and pray. Then it started to hail. After 15 minutes of hail and 3 inches stacked up around us Dennis determined we needed to get off the mountain. We literally ran down the mountain. I was hypothermic by the time we reached the truck. I want to hike Havasupi in October. I need to start training.

5. My nickname given to me by my brothers was Clem or Clum which ever would make me madder. I loved to watch Clem Cadiddle Hopper (a character of Red Skelton) So they would call me Clem or Clum and then watch me cry. When I would cry they would make fun of me and say "Youkon King" (and make wolf howling sounds) That would make me madder and cry harder. I had very awnry brothers. I still love watching Red Skelton re runs. He has some of the best patomimes ever.

6. I hate to cook. That doesn't mean I can't cook it just means I don't like to. I asked Dennis would you rather have a wife who can cook but doesn't want to, or a wife who can't cook and who does. He had to think about that for a few minutes. I would rather have someone else cook, and do the dishes thank-you. I like to eat out. My favorite food is Asian. (Chinese, Tai, Japanese, Phillipine,)

Well there it is 6 random things about me you probablly already knew. I didn't add that I love to take picture cause everyone already knows that about me. Oh Green is my favorite color and 2 is my favorite number.

Dennis and the 4th year hike

2008-05-05T21:55:00.001-07:00

You may have wondered why Dennis wasn't at Michelle's supprise birthday party. This is why. The 4th year hike. Dennis has always stayed at the back so the slowest girl doesn't get left behind. This year was no exception. I think that there is as Sacrament Meeting talk in there somewhere. They hiked the North Loop trail toward the Peak. Too much snow this time of year to hike to the top.
This is Rain Tree. It is a Bristle Cone Pine. It is estimated to be about 3000 years old. The oldest living tree in the Spring Mountain Range. The Sunset was Incredible
Packing up in the morning.... Then clouds start to swirl and churn. Look out.

A freek snow storm hits. It lasts about 20 minutes and then is over. That was lucky.

It's all down hill from here.

We love to hike. We took the Achievement day girls hiking last weekend to Pine Creek at Red Rock. The flowers are blooming and it is so beautiful.

Michelle' SUPPRISE!!! You're 30, Party

2008-05-05T15:28:00.000-07:00

Danielle and I went to Flagstaff on Friday to supprise Michelle for her 30th birthday. Alvin had set it up with her friends to go out to dinner with them. We parked down the street after setting up. It was a twlight party, decorated in red and black and apples. Barry and Sharon came from Joseph City and many of Michelle and Alvin's friends came.

Do you think she was supprised? I should have had the camera on sports action mode.

Alvin I am so proud of you. She had no Idea.

I was really concerned she was going to pee her pants.

Seesters, as Nelli would put it.Lots and Lots of Food

Michelle, is a Twlight MOM

Danielle, teaches everyone how to play greed.

Grandma took Danica, Emy and Alvin Swimming the next day.

Ella is 2 1/2 and still has no hair but still a cutie.

My first blue ribbon at the Camera Club

2008-04-26T06:50:00.000-07:00

Well, I did it, my first Blue ribbon at the camera club. I am sooooo happy. Title, Twlight Zone. It was entered in the abstract catagory. There are 3 judges and a photograph can be scored from 6 to 9. 6 being the lowest. I got 8, 9, 8 for a total of 25. 24 constitutes a blue ribbon except where there are more than on blue ribbon winner, then the photographs are given placement of 1st, 2nd or 3rd. So even if you have a 24 which is blue if another photo gets a higher placement than you you get a lower ribbon. (That has happened several times to me and it is very frustrating) It is a picture of a granite ball that is spinning. The colors are the reflection from the celing. It was taken at the Springs Preserve in Las Vegas.

The Flour and The Ring

2008-04-23T07:41:00.000-07:00

Does this face look innocent to you.

Alexis spent the night at Grandma and Grandpa's house last night. I had a container of flour on the counter where the bar stools are. Dennis said you need to move that it is a disaster waiting to happen. So I moved it over to the counter by the silverware. This morning when Alexis woke up and was eating breakfast at same said counter. She asked "Grandma remember that ring that was right there? " I paniced. The my wedding ring wasn't where I had put it. I had put my wedding ring on the counter above the sink the night before when I made home made grandma noodles (I didn't want the dought to get stuck in it) I asked Alexis "Alexis do you know where Grandma's ring is? She promptly got down wet over to the counter where the flour canister was now and started digging in the flour. The rest is history.

Well maybe not so innocent but cute.

We love her and are happy to have her here with us.

Saturdays are for Baseball

2008-04-19T22:52:00.000-07:00

Today's Baseball games started at 11:00 am and ended at 6:00 pm Brayden's team was first. He plays 2nd base and he is good. He really has a good arm and can throw runners out.
We left a little early to get to Jace's game and wouldn't you know it we missed the best part of the game. When a player ran down the tieing run and got him out. Winning over the first place team. Brayden you are a great player.

Jace's game was second. Jace played outfield 3rd base and 1st base. I thought it was really cute when he was playing first base, the coach told him to touch first base. So he went and jumped on first base. Then the coach reminded him when you have the base ball go touch 1st base. Jace hit the ball (coach pitch) and his last time up to bat he ran the bases and slid home. The coach told him "I'm sure your mom will appricate that" It was fun to watch the little ones play.

Dustin's game was exciting as well. Dustin plays 3rd base, and pitches He is a great player and today was no exception. He caught a fly ball, had several hits and slid into home in the last inning setting up the winning run. Dustin is a great Baseball player it was fun to watch the Grandsons play baseball today even if that was the only thing that got done. Oh and by the way I got my first sunburn of the season. My lilly white skin is no match for the desert sun. Maybe I need to move to Forks.

G. Ray Isims

2008-04-16T14:29:00.000-07:00

Well, after Jennelle's message to my post to about Grandpa I would like to start a G. Ray Isims list.
Jennelle's was:
"Get out of the Road"

Some that I can remember:
"We're off like a herd of turtles"
"Slicker than snot on a doorknob"
"We're off like a dirty shirt"
"Pot licker"
"Colder than a well digger's fanny"
This list is by not means finished we can add to the list as long as someone remembers
G.Ray Newman

Grandpa Newman

2008-04-16T07:59:00.001-07:00

Today is the 2nd anniversary of my dad's crossing over. He was known by G. Ray Newman. I asked him once why he was called G. Ray, he told me that when he would flirt with the girls they would exclaim Geeeee Raaaay. He loved to be loved.

My children and grandchildren and hopefully my great grandchildren and the inventor of the
Oski Wow Wows. Of all the stories that they want me to tell them at night the Oski Wow Wows are their favorite.

He was a passionate man who loved life. He was a giver. I think of all of his attributes his compassion for others was my most beloved. He would help family, friends, or strangers. On more than one occasion we would have a stranger at the table for dinner. He would give them a a hand up by giving them an odd job to earn a few dollars. This is one of my favorite pictures of Dad, Grandpa, and Great Grandpa to some. It is of Danica and Great Grandpa dated January 2nd 2002. How do I know this because Dad sent this picture to me with this information on the back. Dad there are times that I am proud to be called D Ray.

Logandale Fair

2008-04-15T18:45:00.000-07:00

The Fair in Logandale is always looked forward to. This year was no exception. Ryan and Brittany were there. Brittany preformed with the clogging group she teaches. She is so tallented. We really enjoyed it. We had lots of junk fair food including but not limited to Navajo Tacos, mutton fried bread sandwich, funnel cakes with whipped cream and stawberries, barbque pork, corn on the cob, snow cones. Amie reminded us we missed the fried twinkies and fried snickers.

Grandpa and Grandma finally met up with Danielle, Jammie, Alexis, Jace and Mya. It took them 40 minutes to get to the fairgrounds after they got off the freeway. It was fun but we will go on Thursday next year. We always eat the fair food and look at the animals. We lost Alexis after getting off the slide at the house of mirriors (she was the first one down) she ran back through. When Jammie came down no one could find Alexis no one knew she had dashed back through cutting in line and going through without a ticket. So you can tell which picture came right after we found her.

Alexis loves her Grandpa and her Grandpa loves Alexis

Danielle, Jace and Mya
Jammie, Jace and Alexis

Alexis, jumped right off and went back for another turn on the slide. Just like she does at the park.
Except no one knew where she went.

Where is Alexis?

Where is Alexis?

After 10 minutes of looking Alexis found us as she came down the slide again, happy as can be.

Except after the spankin.

"It wasn't Me!" Jace (this time)

Jace got a balloon sword and Alexis got a flower.

Off road cyber racing. Jace you are a natural.

Grandpa is a push over where all the grandkids are concerned.

All in all we had a fun day at the fair. We will definately go next year.

My favorite Animal picture from the fair.

Photographs entered at the Logandale Fair

2008-04-15T18:26:00.000-07:00

I entered several photographs at the Clark Co. Fair in Logandale. They all won blue ribbons these won blue ribbons with an excellent rating. I love to take pictures. Dennis bought me a new Nikon D80 for my birthday and my life (or his) will never be the same.
This picture was taken when Lynne, Caleb, Sawyer and Grandma took a road trip to Valdez, Alaska. On the way home we side tripped across the Denali Highway. This picture is called "Old Soul"He was so old he couldn't run away and posed for about 10 minutes while we took pictures.

Taken in Oregon on the Wallowwa River. We went with Randy steel head fishing. I caught a good picture and that was it.

The Old Moapa Water Wheel near the Old Lewis farm and ranch in Glendale, NV.

Ice Berg from the Columbia Glacier, out of Valdez, Alaska

Calico Tanks in the Red Rock Conservation Area, Las Vegas, NV.

Dandilion, at the Sacred Grove, New York

I entered Mya's baby blanket and won a blue ribbon and the Director's Choice award.

Wetlands Park and Chuckie Cheese

2008-04-06T22:16:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday April 1st Grandma, Jace, Alexis, Dustin and Brayden had an adventure at the Clark County Wetlands Park. Since I had never been there before we got a little lost. Once we found it it was alot of fun. We saw a road runner, coots, Canadian Geese and minnows. The guide told us there are native beaver here now. We didn't see any. We were really hungery after a morning of hiking so we went to Chuckie Cheese. It was alot of fun.

Lake Side Resort in Parumph

2008-04-06T20:50:00.000-07:00

April, 6th
Happy Birthday Emmy! Grandma and Grandpa Love You!!!

We just returned from spending the weekned with Dustin and Brayden. We took that trailer and went to the Lakeside resort in Parumph. We had a great time Fishing, Swimming, (the Hot Tub was expecially good) Paddle Boating, Kyaking, Feeding the ducks, eating at the Buffet. (The Ice Cream Cones were especially good) and Taking Pictures. I think that we need to have a family day there.
The only problem with no TV is we go to bed really early. Last night I woke up after my 6 hours of sleep and it was 2:30 am so I got up and edited my pictures in my camera then the battries died and so I tried reading "Twilight" under the covers with a flashlight (I felt like I was at girls camp) Well Twilight will have to wait a little longer.

As many of you know I am a ameratur photographer. The picture of the dove and the picture of the Duck and duckling are my favorite. I had waited about 45 minutes to get the picture of the duckling peeking out from under her mother's wing.

Grandma Newman's Birthday Today

2008-04-03T21:23:00.000-07:00

It has been 10 years since my mom crossed over. I miss her.

The Foggies

2008-04-03T18:25:00.000-07:00

Well, since I am so gung-ho about making blogs as of late I thought I would make the Foggies one. Amie and Alvin & Michelle we are waiting for yours! Everyone's lives are so busy and half of us live in different places...so I hope this might be a means to keep in contact and see pictures of one another more often. ~Love, Nelli

P.S How great is this picture of the Foggies...Classic!