Carnival Time in West Texas

I must admit the carnival wasn't nearly as nostalgic as it was at age 13.  Partially because now that I am a mom, I stayed busy assessing the safety of each ride and making sure I hadn't seen any of the Carnies' photos on America's Most Wanted.  I was in fact a little disappointed that this particular carnival seemed so small (how can you have a carnival without a ferris wheel???), however it might be because my fondest memories as a child have faded away.  Or perhaps it was the fact that the wind was blowing
about 90 miles an hour and I was constantly dodging clouds of dust while trying to protect my expensive camera equipment.

My disappointment, however was quickly replaced with joy as I watched the magic in little Hallie's eyes.  After all, isn't that what the carnival is all about???  At first, she seemed a little unsure, but after completing her first ride, she was hooked.  I have to report that this confirmed the fact that we have a little daredevil on our hands...I mean how many kids take their 1st roller coster ride in a diaper?

All and all, it was a fun family evening and while the carnival has a little bit different meaning to me now a days, I am already looking forward to taking Hallie back again next year.

      

Sister Sister

Thats right folks, it's that time a year...the annual "Paclik" sister spring break photo shoot.  I had big expectations for this year's photo shoot, however it was cut a bit short for lets just say...reasons beyond our control.  Nevertheless, it was fun and fabulous as usual.  Enjoy!  :)

Isn't it funny...

Isn't it funny how sometimes we take the best pictures when we least expect it?  I can get Hallie all decked out in her Sunday best, wait until the perfect time of day, drive to the perfect location and still end up being slightly disappointed with the results.  Partially because well, frankly that is just the luck of the draw with a two year old, but also because sometimes I think I try too hard.

Today the weather was GORGEOUS...especially for the time of year in West Texas when the wind howls.  However, today was an exception and while out just simply enjoying the evening (play clothes, dirty face and all) I got a couple of pictures of Hallie that were just plain pretty.  So pretty in fact, that I had to share.  ;)

Po-Po

This is Po-Po...he knows grasses.  He knows everything you would want to know about grasses, and then some...and he loves to teach it.

Po-Po starts 'em early.  Apparently 2.5 is not too early.  Today he taught Hallie about "Lovegrass".

Because I am an accomplished "grass judger" already (and my whole intention in this outing was to practice my photography), I decided to sit this one out and document with photographs instead.

My toddler still poses a challenge when photographing...she is just too busy!  However, I decided to shoot in all manual and can finally say I feel comfortable with it.  :)  I am very pleased with how these photos turned out.

Even more so pleasing is spending time with family...and I am truly blessed to have some of the best!