9 2 Bay 2 9 2 10

Chickeny goodness

2009-05-08T18:55:00.001-04:00

Chickeny goodness
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

It's so hard to tell them apart. There are really only 2 that I can ever be sure about. One is lighter than the rest of the herd so that is Lemon Pepper and one rules the roost and everything in it, so that is General Tso. The other 4 just kind of get called one of the other names I came up with -- 007, Teriyaki, Orange and Egg Foo Young.

The ladies

2009-04-19T17:05:00.001-04:00

The ladies
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

After a bit of excitement that included a ride down the road at 55 mph, a romp around the yard and the woods with an extremely excited Stupid Little Angry Dog on one of their heels, all 6 of the ladies are safely locked in their coop until things settle down a bit.

Headed home

2009-02-22T07:19:00.001-05:00

Headed home
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

I am so glad that it's still a little bit light out when I leave work on weekends now. It just makes things so much easier. Now, when I get pulled over by the cops and they ask "Do you have any idea how fast you were going?", I might actually be able to say yes. See, the dashboard lights have been out on the Jetta for the past month and a half, so I really don't have any idea how fast I'm going. I just kind of guesstimate it according to the flow of the traffic and on the MassPike, the flow of traffic can be anywhere from 42mph to 95mph.

Luckily though, the clock, the mileage and the gear listing are all still lit, so at least I'm not late, I know how many miles are on the old junker and that I've got him in Drive. YAY!

Weed Farm

2009-02-19T05:57:00.001-05:00

Weed Farm
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

It's just so not fair. Our snow was almost gone and then last night we got an additional 3 inches. I swear we are going to have snow on the ground straight through April at this point! GAH!

The first Hoophall Classic photo shoot

2009-01-18T07:23:00.001-05:00

The first Hoophall Classic photo shoot
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

I had the pleasure of shooting some basketball down at Springfield College at the Hoophall Classic yesterday. I think I did ok considering this was only like the second or third Basketball game that I've ever shot. You can check out the photo gallery here. Be kind though, I'm new at this and as I like to say "Although I enjoy my time at the University of Learning by Doing, some day it might be nice to take a course at the College of Practice First."

Being a deer

2009-01-13T12:11:00.001-05:00

Being a deer
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

It was so nice to find the deer at the Quabbin today actually 'being deer'. Those of you who follow my stream know that I don't agree with feeding the deer and yet there were tons of people who would bring them apples and carrots and all manner of things. Well the Quabbin finally got involved. They didn't plow the turnout where the deer hang out waiting for handouts, barricaded the turnout for good measure, and put up more signs with 'no parking' and 'don't feed the wildlife'. When I drove through today, there were no deer standing near the rotary, but I did find them further up the road, in the blueberry meadow, chomping on the underbrush. Doing what deer are supposed to do, not acting like some desperate pan handler! It was really nice to see and yet on another level, I hope they can all manage to find enough to eat to make it through the winter. But that is nature. The natural thinning of the herd is a necessary evil.

My new BFF

2008-12-16T12:53:00.001-05:00

My new BFF
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

She was adorable and very, very brave.

Sleigh bells ring...

2008-12-10T16:31:00.001-05:00

Sleigh bells ring...
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

are you listenin'?

Every day it's a challenge just to get out the door

2008-12-06T22:05:00.001-05:00

Every day it's a challenge just to get out the door
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

with your ear drums and pant legs intact.

Watch the birdies...

2008-12-03T14:00:00.001-05:00

Watch the birdies...
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

My favorite is watching them fly in from the tree in the background. Then there is that one nasty Titmouse that comes in and bodychecks his buddy. Classic!

Stuck

2008-11-29T06:25:00.001-05:00

Stuck
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

Yes, Jethro let me down. It's a new record. I've had the car for a whole 2 days. We went down to Springfield's Big Balloon parade and afterwards we got back to the car, which then wouldn't start. These nice guys stopped with some jumpers to help us but unfortunately I think it's the starter not the battery. So we called my son for a ride home and headed off to Theodore's for a lovely lunch while we waited. Then we called the place where we bought the car and they said they would send a tow truck. Just after my son got to Springfield to pick us up we of course tried the car one last time and, yes, of course, he started... *sigh** So.. we called the dealership back, said never mind the tow and instead we drove the car back to the dealership, where, luckily, it refused to start again so they could see what the problem is. Then we all piled into my son's car and went home. The dealership still has the car and of course, it's supposed to snow tomorrow. I tell you. It's always an adventure.

Always.

An adventure.

The crew

2008-11-28T16:49:00.001-05:00

The crew
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

I managed to get the entire crew out into the yard before the tryptophan kicked in yesterday after dinner.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-27T21:32:00.001-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving!
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

Jethro - the winter beater

2008-11-24T18:11:00.001-05:00

Jethro - the winter beater
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

We adopted an older brother for Jenny today. Jethro will hopefully get me through the winter (and then some) safely... Hopefully!

Mystery Meat...

2008-11-20T11:35:00.002-05:00

I couldn't help but pass along this story that just came across the AP:

Mystery meat found on Mass. town's common

Seems someone has been leaving chunks of meat on Framingham's town common. We'll just file this one under "Why?"...

People are strange and getting stranger by the minute.

Fall deer

2008-11-18T14:25:00.001-05:00

Fall deer
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

I love that the deer are so used to me now that I'm able to circle around them easily and get the background that I want behind them. I really should name this little one, I've shot enough pictures of it.

Keeping really busy here, sorry for the lack of updates. I have however updated my MassLive.com blog, so if you want to see something new on the topic of something old, go ahead and take a look here.

Some upcoming projects include that "Sleepy Hollow" shoot I've been grinding my way through and the day after Thanksgiving it'll be Big Balloons in the shape of a 75 foot long Cat in the Hat!

I went looking for moose

2008-11-09T06:50:00.001-05:00

I went looking for moose
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

and all I got was these stupid cattails.

Note to family: Thanksgiving is on. I repeat. Thanksgiving is on. I'll try and call you later but just in case. Thanksgiving is ON.

I can haz a say!

2008-11-04T10:05:00.001-05:00

I can haz a say!
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

And so can you!

Get out there and vote!

Covered Bridge - Taftsville VT

2008-10-28T07:32:00.002-04:00

Covered Bridge - Taftsville VT
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

Hi All,

Want to enter a fall photo contest? The prize is having your photo published on the front page of "The Republican" newspaper, as well as a commemorative plaque of the page with your photo on it.

If you would like to see the photo's your up against, then go here. Contest is sponsored by MassLive.com and the Republican.

The contest is now CLOSED! Thanks so much for all the entries!

Deersicle

2008-10-22T10:04:00.001-04:00

Deersicle
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

I took a walk around the yard with the camera and came across this. Yes, it's an apple on a stick. I think it's intended to be a "deersicle". I'm just going to chalk it up to another great idea from a member of my "Fairly Odd Family"!

Sunset on the Lake

2008-10-16T06:59:00.001-04:00

Sunset on the Lake
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

I'm freshly back from a long weekend in Vermont. We set up base camp in Burlington and then took every road there is in Northern Vermont. ok, maybe not every road, but darn near it. This is just north of St. Albans, which surprisingly is HUGE. I always thought of it as a small sleepy little burg of a town that you could easily miss if you weren't looking for it. It was a really pretty place when you got away from the strip malls but that wind whipping off Lake Champlain was unbelievable. It has to be unbearable in the winter!

Oh Hai, is Thanksgiving yet?

2008-10-06T06:51:00.001-04:00

Oh Hai, is Thanksgiving yet?
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

How can something so weird looking taste so darn good?

Speaking of Thanksgiving, listen up family, I will be providing the turkey and fixings this Thanksgiving, per the usual routine, so plan on coming on by. OH, and remember the price of the meal last year? Well this year will be no different, well, except that instead of outside standing around on the lawn I'm going to set up a little 'studio', complete with lights and backdrop. The rules remain the same however, no sit, no turkey! So wear something nice and trim those eyebrows! :)

I'll take "Bokeh" for 500, Alex.

2008-10-01T22:04:00.001-04:00

I'll take "Bokeh" for 500, Alex.
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

What is "Why I love the Canon 50mm 1.8 so very much".

I bought a Speedlite

2008-09-30T13:45:00.001-04:00

I bought a Speedlite
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

and the only 'person' I could get to sit for me was the dog. *sigh**

Look, I'm in the news...

2008-09-27T07:10:00.001-04:00

Look, I'm in the news...
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

for bringing you the news.

Check out the article.

Hiding in the tall grass

2008-09-25T08:29:00.001-04:00

Hiding in the tall grass
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

It's really beginning to look like fall out there.

Hai, I can haz 8x10 pleeze?

2008-09-24T13:14:00.001-04:00

Hai, I can haz 8x10 pleeze?
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

It's kind of sad to see that the fawns have all lost their spots. Oh, they're still adorable, just not quite as adorable as they were wearing their baby fur.

Kite Flying Sunset

2008-09-18T07:47:00.001-04:00

Kite Flying Sunset
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

Some more shots from my weekend at the Cape. The sunset was absolutely gorgeous!

Ware 2, Granby 1

2008-09-17T06:33:00.001-04:00

Ware 2, Granby 1
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

I had to take the new lens out to the night time soccer game and see what she could do. I think it went alright... Considering this was my first night game, ever. My first soccer game, ever. Plus I was sitting in the stands instead of field-side and had forgotten my monopod so I was shooting hand-held. I think this new lens is going to work very nicely!!

Squinty

2008-09-13T06:52:00.001-04:00

Squinty
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

He came out of the woods, sniffed around my garden, strolled through the yard, checked out my car, drove the dog nuts, and headed up off to the neighbors. It seemed like it could see, so I'm not quite sure what is wrong with it's eyes.

Why injure yourself when you can hire a pro to do it for you!

2008-09-10T10:38:00.001-04:00

Why injure yourself when you can hire a pro to do it for you!
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

I was trolling through the "other" local news sites this morning and came across this ad. I'm not sure if they meant it to be funny, but it sure as heck got a laugh out of me!

Nobska Lighthouse

2008-09-05T07:16:00.001-04:00

Nobska Lighthouse
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

I really love this lighthouse. We actually stumbled across it by accident. We were just following the GPS and taking every shore road we could find. As we were coming up the hill behind it I said, doesn't it seem like there should be a lighthouse here? Sure enough we rounded the bend and there she was.

The light

2008-09-04T08:56:00.001-04:00

The light
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

I just spent a lovely 3 day weekend at the cape. Riding from beach to beach to beach with the top down and the wind in my hair.

It was awesome.

Now I'm crispy fried and there isn't enough conditioner in the state of Massachusetts that's gonna let me get a brush through my hair.

Oh, and we hit a bunch of lighthouses as well. We even climbed this one. It was great, but I'd recommend walking shorts instead of a sun dress. The updraft is spectacular.

This is the light of Highland Lighthouse in North Truro.

The light is only a 110 bulb. I want to know why we don't have house lamps with this type of Fresnel lens. I've got four 75 watt bulbs up in my living room ceiling fan and it's still dark in here. Give me a lamp with a 30 watt bulb and one of these lenses and it would be all good. Good for reading on the sofa, and good for saving some major energy.

I found BigFoot!

2008-08-28T20:03:00.001-04:00

I found BigFoot!
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

Who knew!! BigFoot apparently hangs out at the Hardwick Vineyard & Winery.

I've got a link for you

2008-08-27T09:42:00.001-04:00

Tom will always be a rebel.
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

Hi all, Yesterday I alluded to not having time to blog and gave you the opportunity to fill in the blank with what it is you think it is that has been keeping me so busy lately.

Well, I've got a link for you in the way of a hint as to what it might be.

Click on this and you'll see what I mean. Oh.. and don't forget to click on the link within that story to see all the lovely photos! I had a ton of fun at this, in fact I even switched up my 'day off' schedule so that I could cover it. It was SO worth it, and even better was the email I got from the 'boss' saying that this is exactly what we need to being doing more of. How many ways are there to say "You bet!" and "I'm THERE!"

Someone's gonna get a belly ache

2008-08-26T08:39:00.001-04:00

Someone's gonna get a belly ache
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

Yeah, I've been suspiciously missing on the blog lately. Sorry about that, but _______. (Please feel free to insert your own idea of what could be keeping me away.)

I think I'm finding it a bit much to keep not one but two blogs up to date and interesting. It is a conundrum. The blog on MassLive.com is more important than ever to keep updated, but at the same time, this is my baby. My first blog. I've been blogging here for YEARS! Plus, I can get a lot more ranty and personal here than I can over there and you all know how much I love to rant!

Not to worry, I AM working on a solution. I don't have any idea what it is yet, but there's got to be one out there.

Some where.

L E A P

2008-08-12T14:20:00.001-04:00

L E A P
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

Yes, it's more deer. There is something to be said for shooting the same thing over and over though, you certainly get to know your subject matter. While I'm sure I've still got tons to learn, like, where are all the bucks that are the daddies to these adorable little babies, I have managed to learn enough about the females and the fawns to be able to anticipate where they are headed and how they are going to get there.

Today I spotted this family of 4 adult females and 2 fawns standing at the edge of the woods on the right hand side of the road and I just knew they were going to head down the hill, across the road, leap the guardrail, and take off into the field below. So instead of heading down the side of the road that they were on, I crossed the road, hunkered down by the guardrail, and waited.

The deer didn't disappoint.

The appeal of heavy equipment

2008-08-11T08:33:00.001-04:00

The appeal of heavy equipment
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

They had my favorite shooting area blocked off today to backblade the road and dig a drainage ditch. I don't know what it is about heavy equipment, but the desire to watch it work apparently crosses all species.

Sorry for the lack of updates here, it's been a crazy busy week. They are still ripping up my road, adding extra time to my travels. They've stopped delivering my mail due to the construction, which added another half an hour to my day, you know, to go down to the post office and yell at them for being such a bunch of prissy pansies, and then one by one, everyone in the house has been sick with the flu. So far I've escaped it, but I'm thinking it's only gonna be a matter of time. Add in major, drenching thunderstorms EVERY single nite just as I'm making my drive home and August is really starting to irk me.

I do have some pics still loaded on the camera card from several days ago that hopefully I'll get the chance to download and at least LOOK at shortly... Sheesh!

I have no idea who that couple in the water was...

2008-07-30T20:23:00.001-04:00

I have no idea who that couple in the water was...
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

but who could blame them... It was almost 90 degrees and a good mile hike down to the wonderfully warm, clear water... and it seemed so secluded... you know.. until you realize that there is a rather heavily traveled bike trail just across the water...

It's a great shot of the rhodedendrons

2008-07-27T20:27:00.001-04:00

It's a great shot of the rhodedendrons
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

Pay no attention to the bear behind the shrubbery!

Evening visitor

2008-07-27T20:25:00.001-04:00

Evening visitor
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

A little excitement round the house tonite. My son had just come home and was getting out of his car with a dozen Dunkin' Donuts. We saw him pull in and of course the Stupid Little Angry Dog started with her running and jumping at the front door. Never being one to try to calm the stupid beast, my husband got her further worked up by saying "It's Jeff.. JEFF is home..." and then opening the front door to let the dog do her job and run full bore at the kid as he was coming across the drive.

So he flung open the door and the dog took off down the stairs... stopped dead in her tracks at the bottom... took one look.. turned and promptly ran right back up the stairs...

The next few minutes consisted of my husband yelling "camera... camera... camera..." Me wondering what the heck he wanted the camera for... no.. apparently you can't yell "bear" when your looking at one standing not 20 feet from you... Me finally getting the camera and being horrified at what I was looking at and trying to calm my hand shaking as I tried to control the dog and work the shutter... the stupid dog barking her head off... the kid slowly putting the donuts back in the car and getting in as well... and the bear... the bear just calmly ate the little bit of suet that was left in the feeder and then slowly walking off into the woods.

SHEESH!

Gotta click for the photos

2008-07-22T05:51:00.001-04:00

Hey guys,

No. No photo with this entry. In this case you'll have to follow the links to see the pictures.

So what are they?

This link will take you to the performers that I saw Sunday at the Green River Festival in Greenfield

and

this link will take you to the shots I took of the crowd.

I promise you the clicks are worth it.

My cube aquarium

2008-07-21T21:16:00.001-04:00

My cube aquarium
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

I did a little redecorating at the office tonite. Yeah, I have a cube, but it's got this really cool double paned glass window on the side which I discovered opens.. A half dozen rubber fish, a little coral, a couple fake plants, Steve the scuba diver... and BAM!

Cubequarium!

If your happy and you know it...

2008-07-18T09:19:00.001-04:00

If your happy and you know it...
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

then your face will surely show it! :)

Another super hot & humid weekend coming up. Normally it wouldn't bother me but I've got a couple of shooting assignments lined up that are just gonna be brutal out there in the heat.

On Saturday I'll be at the Green River Festival in Greenfield. This one shouldn't be too bad as I won't be arriving and shooting until around 4pm, just in time to do some of the musical acts (hopefully with a back stage pass!) and then the hot air balloon launch at 6pm.

Then on Sunday it gets really brutal. The Vintage Base Ball tourney in Westfield. Nothing like standing on the first base line in the blazing hot sun on Sunday afternoon.

Ok, so both shoots sound like a HUGE amount of fun. It will just take some pre-planning the kit for each day. As in, lots and lots of water, a hat, and sunscreen. If you happen to be at either of the show, stop on by and say hello!

Sneaking up from behind

2008-07-16T11:28:00.001-04:00

Sneaking up from behind
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

This was a first for me. I've shot turkeys and I've shot deer and fawns all in this same spot. This was the first time tho that I've seen the two interact. The turkey purposely snuck up behind the fawn, I'm not sure if he pecked the baby but the fawn shot 3 feet straight up in the air. He tossed his head at the turkey a few times and then ran off to the safety of Mom and sibling. Amazing stuff!

Springfield High Rise

2008-07-14T07:12:00.001-04:00

Springfield High Rise
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

I've been doing alot of shooting for work lately and not so much for myself, which actually is fine. Unfortunately I can't post my 'work work' here as I don't own the copyright to the images. This, however, is a shot I took as I was leaving a shoot I was doing for the company.

Here are a couple of links tho to stuff I've been doing for work:

Hoophall AAU Basketball - my shots start at #7 and run through to #20. They aren't great but considering I haven't even been to a Basketball game in like 30 years, nevermind shot one, they didn't come out too bad. That's what I love about this job, it really is challenging me every day to get out of my comfort zone and shoot some strange stuff.

The Holyoke Kennel Club Dog Show

The Hoop City Jazz & Arts Festival

Cat Tails

2008-07-09T17:31:00.003-04:00

Another Western Union Telegram:

Still haven't forgotten you, stop.

Here's a couple more tries, stop.

Your idea is still stupid, stop.

Bad Kitty.

2008-07-09T12:39:00.001-04:00

Bad Kitty.
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

A little selfie I like to call "Bad Kitty". So much for the brilliant idea of leaving an umbrella out on the front porch so that it would always be handy for those rainy day runs to the car.

Turkey Cutlet

2008-07-08T07:58:00.001-04:00

Turkey Cutlet
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

Ok, so the story today was just too good to pass up. So it's got nothing to do with photography or cameras or even Photoshop, but whatever, here goes anyway.

Kidman gives birth Monday to girl named Sunday

Mark my words there's a HUGE country song hit in there for hubby Keith Urban. Heck, I'll even write a few bars for him to get him started:

I had a Sunday on Monday..
So Thank the Lord it's Friday..
So come on girl,
Climb on into my Chevy
and I'll take you on down to Ruby Tuesday's..

We'll celebrate and have some fun...
I can't wait till Saturday to cut loose and play...
I got my check on Thursday...
So's I got enough left to pay.

Yeah, I had a Sunday on a Monday...
And it's been one a hell of a week..

Yeah, it's been one hell of a week.

TA DA!

Ok.. so I can't figure out how to get Wednesday in there, well, without a reference to "hump day"... ummm.. never mind... Mr. Urban is on his own with that one!

:)

Cobalt Blue

2008-07-06T21:58:00.001-04:00

Cobalt Blue
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

Another awesome weekend at so called "work".

Saturday was the softball game.

and Sunday was puppies and Jazz..

I came home smelling like a mutt and sweating like a pig, but I love my job.

Fungi among the Flowers

2008-07-05T19:47:00.001-04:00

Fungi among the Flowers
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

The mushrooms just added that extra layer of somethin' to the photo.

If you want to see the latest pics that I shot for Masslive, a softball game between the Chicopee Fire Department and the Chicopee School Department, just give a little click.

Tree Rat

2008-07-01T12:14:00.001-04:00

Tree Rat
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

After weekend headlines like "1 killed, 9 shot or stabbed" I was ready for a little "serenity now".

Cat Tails and Dog Wood

2008-06-24T14:47:00.003-04:00

A Western Union Telegraph.

Haven't forgotten you, stop.

Cat tails and flowers, stop.

Not going so well, stop.

Your idea 5ucks, stop.

Metallic Green

2008-06-24T12:18:00.001-04:00

Metallic Green
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

Love these little guys.

Lamp Post on Red

2008-06-22T22:01:00.001-04:00

Lamp Post on Red
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

I think I need to do a study of that red wall. From the minute I saw it, as I was waiting for my first interview for the new job, I've been fascinated with it. I guess I've got to skip lunch one of these days and just do it.

Fair Trade Apples

2008-06-20T07:25:00.001-04:00

Fair Trade Apples
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

I put in two apple trees several years ago and not once have I had a single bud, a single flower, never mind a single apple. The locals make sure they stay pruned and neat. I call it fair trade. I get my apples at Atkin's Fruit Farm like everyone else and occasionally I get a wonderful glimpse of my neighbors.

Does a deer &%# in the woods?

2008-06-17T20:53:00.001-04:00

Does a deer *&%*# in the woods?
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

So I got a personal request for a particular type of photograph today. That's right, now apparently, I shoot to order! :) Luckily I think it is quite do-able so I'll see if I can't work on that tomorrow. In the meantime, here's a lovely photograph that I think you all will enjoy. In fact it almost fits the request I got... animal.. in the shrubbery... and the tail is up.. well.. kinda... LOL... let's see you design a bouquet around this sister dear!

Flutter by

2008-06-10T17:28:00.001-04:00

Flutter by
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

My kitchen table is quickly becoming my favorite spot in the house and the really cool thing is I planned it that way. Out the front window I've hung my hummingbird feeder so I can see the little guys coming and going. To the right is another window that years ago I planted a french lilac bush directly beneath. The lilac is finally large enough to be seen from that window now. The one thing I didn't openly plan was all the butterfly's it was going to attract. What an awesome way to while away a little bit of time, with a nice cup of coffee, hummingbirds, lilacs and butterflies... It's like something straight out of a freakin' Disney movie!

The Fugitive

2008-06-10T06:51:00.001-04:00

The Fugitive
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

Springfield style. I was in the office yesterday when this State Police helicopter kept circling the building, it then proceeded to hover outside my bosses window overlooking the Hippodrome parking lot. Reading the story today it seems one of the "visitors" to the Springfield District Court decided he didn't want to wear the shiney bracelets anymore and managed to kick out door latch and then make his way out of the secure parking garage.

I'm busy.

2008-06-03T13:03:00.001-04:00

I'm busy.
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

Yeah, I know.. not much going on on the blog of late. Sorry about that. Busy.. Busy.. Busy as a bee. I've finally switched over to my weekend schedule at the new job and my 'virtual weekend" of Tuesdays and Wednesdays seem to be full of the necessities... banking.. oil changes... getting the snow tires taken off... bill paying... all the crap that just sucks the life and shooting time right out of the day...

Anyway... I'll try and do better... really I will...

ivy

2008-05-28T07:59:00.001-04:00

ivy
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

More from my office window. Have I said I love the view from my window? I do, however, when that massive storm blew through the city yesterday I was beginning to rethink the whole "window seat" concept.

Public Water Supply

2008-05-26T20:27:00.001-04:00

Public Water Supply
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

I've shot in this exact same spot a hundred times. Easily, a hundred times! I think this is time I've gotten the shot I was looking for all along!

I'm not quite sure if I should be thrilled or a little sad that now it's kinda 'over'...

Pugsly is back!

2008-05-24T08:52:00.001-04:00

Pugsly is back!
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

YAY... It's Pugsly! He's been missing for weeks... Well, ever since my son and his girlfriend gathered up all the barn cats and took them all for a ride on "Feral Sunday" and got them all operations. They spent two days setting traps and gathering cats from near and far. I was convinced that Pugsly would be too smart and too missing to catch, but he showed up in the last trap, at the last minute and made the trip with the rest of the cats. When they all came back, minus a few bits and pieces, he took off for the hills and hasn't been seen since. It's nice to see he's getting over his loss and is starting to come back around.

Mom and crew

2008-05-18T17:16:00.001-04:00

Mom and crew
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

There were actually 6 babies but one of them was hanging out with Dad.

Take a tour of the Ware Farmer's Market

2008-05-17T14:27:00.003-04:00

I was heavily involved in the Ware Farmer's Market a couple of years ago, in fact, I helped get it started. Working on weekends has since taken me away from the market but I managed to make my way up to Grenville Park in Ware today and shoot some video and stills.

By the way, your tour guide for today is non-other than the Market Manager, vendor and Ware Town Selectwoman Melissa Weise!

Lily

2008-05-16T20:06:00.001-04:00

Lily
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

Hey, at least it's not an archive shot. I've been a bit busy lately and haven't even really had time to pick up the camera, never mind actually shoot it and process something. Actually, I haven't been so much 'busy' as "off schedule". The new job (which is absolutely freakin' wonderful, btw, thanks for asking!) has my schedule all topsy turvy right now and I've yet to get a handle on re-arranging my personal time. You know, it's that typical "How was your day?" conversation. Normally, when you've been in the same job for 2, 5, or 7 years the answer is pretty quick, "Fine and yours?" but with a new job comes 3 hour conversations and it seems I still only scratch the surface of what I've been doing, learning, seeing, talking about, and have scheduled.

Every day is an adventure and I'm lovin' it but I'm afraid shooting has temporarily taken a back seat. I'm sure I'll get back at it shortly.

My Favorite news story of the day:

2008-05-15T15:16:00.001-04:00

My Favorite news story of the day:
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

NORTHAMPTON - The cleanup of leaking fuel from a tractor trailer truck has backed up northbound traffic on Interstate 91 near Exit 18.

Massachusetts State Police Trooper Robert L. Wyckoff said the driver swerved to avoid a deer and hit the guardrail. The fuel is leaking from the tractor's own tank.

No injuries were reported and the deer has fled the scene, Wyckoff, who is attached to the Northampton barracks, said.

Yet another driving video, but with a passenger!

2008-05-11T18:54:00.001-04:00

Yet another driving video, but with a passenger!
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

Silly... silly... little dog.

Jenny gets a nuvi voice.

2008-05-07T13:10:00.001-04:00

Jenny gets a nuvi voice.
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

So, as a length of service award, my husband got a Garmin nuvi... (cue the "gotta gotta get a Garmin" promo music... there's a moose again!)... Well, seeing as how he already has a gps I ended up with it. All I can say is "Loving it!"... So now Jenny has a voice. A lovely female voice that attempts to keep me on the road to where ever it is that I'm headed. She is perhaps the perfect co-pilot, patiently telling me where to go and when to go and so forth. So far though, by far the most frequent thing I've heard her say is "recalculating" when I purposely diverge from her intended route. She will patiently tell me again.. and again... to turn left and when I don't she simply says "recalculating" and gives me a new route. Sometimes I think though that she would be ever so much more fun if she sounded more like Jack Nicholson when I ignore her... You know... let loose with a couple of "WTF you completely aren't LISTENING to me... that's it... I'll give you a new route... go straight to hell you freakin' idiot... cause you know what.. you can't handle the HIGHWAY!"

Take a walk on the old bridge.

2008-05-07T06:27:00.001-04:00

Take a walk on the old bridge.
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

Ok.. so it's lame.. but what can you do? Mike has gotten kind of addicted to shooting little videos on his BlackJack phone... He really is very creative. Me? I never even think in terms of video until he's already pulled out his phone and shot his. I'm going to have to try and change that.

My Blue Window

2008-04-30T20:53:00.001-04:00

My Blue Window
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

've been getting spoiled at my new job, they actually gave me a window seat! Mine is the top right. I even had a couple of feathered visitors today... ok.. so they were pigeons which are basically 'sky rats'... but it was cool just the same. Cities spend thousands upon thousands of dollars trying to rid the city of these flying scourges of car owners everywhere, I think I've found the perfect answer for them, all you have to do is hire a fleet of pigeon photographers because apparently all it takes is pointing a camera at them and they fly off. DSLRs for everyone... pigeon problem solved.

Jenny and The Republican

2008-04-29T06:22:00.001-04:00

Jenny and The Republican
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

This is one of the coolest buildings in the entire city of Springfield, MA. The Republican Newspaper. The curve to the building is not lens induced but the actually way the building is. If you go large you can see three really cool huge tanks in the bottom right; one red, one yellow and one blue. The company I started working for on Monday has a really strong affiliation with these guys and I'm hoping that along with my press pass I get an indepth tour of this building. I definitely will be stopping back by here after dark as I can only imagine what this place looks like all lit up! OH.. and just ignore that "No Parking" sign... We weren't parked, we were on a photo-safari.

muzzled

2008-04-24T08:36:00.001-04:00

| | | | m | u | z | z | l | e | d | | | |
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

I really like this shot of the Wallaby I took at the zoo the other day. I call it "Muzzled" which frankly I would have liked to have done to Mom yesterday. I picked her up in Jenny (with the top down) and took her up to the Dairy Queen for ice cream for her birthday. After slathering herself with sunscreen that had an SPF rating of like 345, we headed up town for the 5 minute ride to the DQ. Amazingly she didn't make a single comment about how she shouldn't be eating ice cream and she even requested whipped cream on her Sundae. Nope, instead, as we were standing in line making our flavor decisions she regaled me with stories about her colonoscopy and how she can't have nuts or seeds anymore. Somehow my Peanut Buster Parfait with it's plethora of Spanish Peanuts just didn't seem the same. It wasn't as bad as you think though, probably because I had heard the colonoscopy story before, you know, when I was standing in line for the buffet at big brother's 50th birthday party.

I tell you, who needs Jenny Craig when you can just have dinner with Mom.

Yes, yes, it's me

2008-04-22T15:37:00.001-04:00

Yes, yes, it's me
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

No, I don't know why. I also don't know exactly what the Stupid Little Angry Dog™ was doing behind me, this isn't the first selfie I've done where she's just kind of hanging out in the background and something tells me it won't be the last. OH, and the audio on this thing really stinks, my son assures me that I DO NOT have a lisp, contrary to what it sounds like on here.

Dig Dog Dig

2008-04-20T20:13:00.001-04:00

Dig Dog Dig
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

Here's some more video for you, just because I can. It's somewhat low quality as it was shot with a BlackJack phone, but you can get the idea... With our luck she was probably trying to dig a bear out of it's den.

If he ever writes a book this should be his cover portrait.

2008-04-19T22:29:00.001-04:00

If he ever writes a book this should be his cover portrait.
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

These little guys were my absolute favorite at the zoo. The Marmoset. They are so tiny, with heads about the size of golf balls, and yet have so much personality. He was just as curious about my camera as I was of him.

Osprey Cam

2008-04-19T08:45:00.001-04:00

Osprey Cam
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

We took a ride down to Rhode Island yesterday and spotted these nesting osprey's off the side of the road in a marsh. Yes, that is a webcam that is pointed at the nest. Cool, huh? This is the feed from the webcam. See the spot of blue material in the front of the nest here, you can see it on the webcam as well. BTW... the male is sitting on the nest here and the female is on the camera stand so apparently they are still in the building process.

YOU... AGAIN!!!

2008-04-17T08:22:00.001-04:00

YOU... AGAIN!!!
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

I got an email from Sister #3 suggesting that I post this picture here. She had spotted it on my Flickr account and really liked it and was questioning as to whether everyone that reads this blog (or my other blog) is aware that what they see on here is just a fraction of what I actually shoot. What she doesn't realize is that even the Flickr account is a fraction of what I actually shoot. Often I'll get 4 or 5 or 20 awesome shots of a particular subject and to keep the Flickr account interesting, I'll only post 1 or maybe 2. To this I say.. You should see my hard drive... . Anyway... So, here you go...

You.. Again....

Several times on my way down the driveway, I've caught this guy diving and swooping at his own reflection in the old "Nice Boat"... He's got to be wondering how come every time he comes around that same freakin' other guy is hanging around too!

I <3 you, now give me more food.

2008-04-16T17:01:00.001-04:00

I
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

The tree rats are getting smarter and one day will evolve completely and begin their assault, eventually taking over the entire free world, one nut at a time.

Runaway

2008-04-15T21:09:00.001-04:00

Runaway
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

I love this one. Straight outta the camera.. well ok.. I played with the exposure a bit but that was it.. I was shooting just as another car startled the deer and I just followed along with the camera.

A Balloon for Melissa!

2008-04-15T07:36:00.001-04:00

A Balloon for Melissa!
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

or should I say, A Balloon for Selectwoman Melissa!

A good friend of mine just won herself a seat on our local Board of Selectmen! She will most definitely be a huge asset to the town of Ware!

I sat through quite a few town meetings with Melissa when we were lobbying for space and funds to get the Farmer's Market started here in town. After each meeting we would have quite the discussions (over ice cream) about what we would love to see changed about the convoluted, red-tape-laden, pain-in-the-butt, no-wonder-nothing-ever-gets-done, meeting process. We always joked that one of us should run for office and try to make some changes. I guess that's the difference between her and I. I talked. SHE DID IT!

Congratulations Melissa!

Cake for a Quitter...

2008-04-11T10:58:00.001-04:00

Cake for a Quitter...
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

One of my wonderful, now ex, coworkers got me this lovely cake for my last day at the Walmart Photo Lab yesterday. How awesome is that? It was not only delicious, but extremely fitting. Note the "Walmart happy face" decoration. I insisted that I get to scrape off the happy face and eat it before I cut the cake to share. They willingly obliged. It tasted sweet... Really sweet... in more ways than one! Now... on to much bigger and better things! :)

I think this is a repeat

2008-04-09T10:35:00.001-04:00

Take a quick ride in Jenny
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

You may have seen this bit of video on here before but FLICKR (where I host all my photos) just added a video function and in the interest of finding out if the "send to blog" function works with video like it does with photos, you guys get to see it again. Lucky, lucky you!

The secret to 53 years of happy marriage.

2008-04-05T19:21:00.001-04:00

The secret to 53 years of happy marriage.
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

Sometimes hours would go by when Grandpa just couldn't find Grandma. He never worried much, she would always turn up, with a smile on her face and pine pitch in her hair.

Paint me some Spring

2008-03-30T06:42:00.001-04:00

Paint me some Spring
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

The cardinals that live in the shrub pile near our brook.

cow #131

2008-03-28T07:22:00.001-04:00

cow #131 aka "The Trouble Maker"
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

Here's that shot of the cows that I took with the Brownie. I just realized I hadn't posted here to the blog. It's funny how you feel all safe when your looking at things through a little tiny blurry viewfinder, but when you look up and see what's actually right in front of you, you get a WHOLE new perspective on the situation!

Half Frozen

2008-03-28T07:19:00.001-04:00

Half Frozen
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

More shots from the new, old Brownie. I'm really enjoying shooting with the little plastic box and just got my order for 10 more rolls of film! I'm sure you'll be seeing alot more Brownie shots on here in the near future. Drop me a comment and let me know what you think!

So what did the Easter Bunny leave for you?

2008-03-23T19:34:00.001-04:00

So what did the Easter Bunny leave for you?
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

Happy Easter, Everyone! :)

Brownies and Milk

2008-03-22T22:20:00.001-04:00

Brownies and Milk
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

Yeah, that's me, out in the wind and cold, shooting cows with a Brownie... They were just kind of standing in the field looking at me, so in my infinite wisdom, I began banging on the fence to get their attention. Next thing I knew, there was a stampede--headed straight for me! I won't show you the pic of me running in fear, it would just be too painful. Of course, my husband, who shot the picture, thinks it's hysterical!

warp

2008-03-20T09:00:00.001-04:00

warp
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

Wow.. Wow.. Wow... I'm loving it... I found myself at a flea market on Sunday and due to the eagle-eye of my husband who apparently can spot an old camera, stuffed in a box, under a table, in a dusty dimly lit hall, at 50 paces, I walked away with an incredibly clean Brownie for 3 bucks. I didn't even dicker with the guy... The sticker said 3 bucks, and I said "Thank you very much!"

reclaim

2008-03-16T20:42:00.001-04:00

reclaim
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

Completely by chance I found an awesome new shooting ground--the old "AO", American Optical in Southbridge. Although we've driven past the area hundreds of times, today was the first day we decided to side track and drive through. Definitely worth it and I'll definitely be back.

If this is "50", then no thanks.

2008-03-09T08:17:00.001-04:00

If this is "50", then no thanks.
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

We had my brother's 50th birthday party last nite. Apparently when your 50 people force you to dress like Fred Flintstone and then video tape you for posterities sake. I've got some time before I have to worry about it, but I think I'll just stop at 49 birthdays if it's all the same to you. LOL

one way

2008-03-08T22:50:00.001-05:00

one way
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

I really love the starkness of this shot. It just really speaks to me. If you wanna see it as it's best check it out by clicking on it and going to Flickr and then under the picture hit "View on Black".

A vision of grace and beauty...

2008-03-02T20:29:00.001-05:00

A vision of grace and beauty...
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

HA! It's not the clearest shot I got.. but it's certainly the funniest... Who knew that this wild beautiful graceful creature of the forest could be a klutz at times!

None of us will make it to Spring...

2008-03-01T11:09:00.001-05:00

None of us will make it to Spring...
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

Another 6 inches or so of snow again today.

It's getting really hard to not just wither up right along with my lovely tulips...

Just another day at the Ibuprofen Mine...

2008-02-26T09:44:00.001-05:00

Just another day at the Ibuprofen Mine...
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

Although they have had to double up their shifts due to the massive amounts of Ibuprofen that I've been single-handedly consuming. Sorry guys!

Ode to Joy!

2008-02-24T06:16:00.001-05:00

Ode to Joy!
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

The Stupid Little Angry Dog™ is gonna sleep good tonite! :)

Goal Interrupted

2008-02-22T15:30:00.001-05:00

Goal Interrupted
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

Ok.. so the goal was to take this lovely old tank of a camera, the Canon A1 - run a roll of film through her for demonstration purposes - and put the whole shebang up on eBay for sale.

Then I got the roll developed.

I think I need to rethink the "for sale" part.

btw... These were the lovely roses my husband got me for Valentine's day... They are not only beautiful.. but they are lasting forever!

Lunar Eclipse

2008-02-20T22:22:00.001-05:00

Lunar Eclipse
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

I'm half frozen... but it was really cool and well worth it...

Before and After.. A Re-enactment

2008-02-15T10:50:00.001-05:00

Before and After.. A Re-enactment
Originally uploaded by BayRoadPhoto/Laura

Yes. Yes, this was my day yesterday. Of course this is just a re-enactment. With Barbie playing the role of myself and Tanner standing in for Gretchen... Yup... It was a banner day...